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June 21, ISM.]

THE

GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

a Wukig Illustrate Journal

OF

Horticulture and Allied Subjects.

{ESTABLISHED IN 1841.)

VOL. XXV.-THIRD SERIES.
JANUAEY TO JUNE, 1899.

LONDON :
41, WELLINGTON STEEET, COVENT GAEPEN, W.O.

1899.

I -- ,

I

■■

BRADBURY, AGNEW, AND CO. LIMD., PRINTERS,
LONDON AND T9NBRIDGE.

-

I

The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

(June 24, 1899.

INDEX OF CONTENTS.

JANUARY TO JUNE, 1899.

Aberdeen, the Cruiekshank Botanic
Garden for, 21!) ; the Duthie Talk
at, 124, 138
Abutilon Sawitzii, 276
Acacia dealbata, 1*9
Acalypha hiapida, 27
Aconite, the Winter, 62, 93, 157 ;
flowering of, and other early-bloom-
ing plants, 42, 43 ; flowering badly,
189
Acrophyllum venosum, 354
Adiautnui teuenuii Farleyense alci-

corne, 133 ; origin <>f, 153, 158
Adiantums, choice, 260
.Ecidiuru gro-sularia', 355, 359
African notes, South; 292, 321, 332,

367, 4<>7
Agapanthus umbellatus, 293
Alaska, agriculture and gardening in,

334
Alder destroying fungus, 3!>2
Alooasias, 293

Alpine garden, the, 100, 117, 370
Altai, the flora of the South-western,

248
Alyssum saxatile Tom Thumb, 374
Amaryllis Belladonna in Guernsey,

4r,
America, cold in, 153; warm weather

in, 320 j winter damage in, 211
American blight treated with lire,

401,413
American notes, 5, 74, 124, 1 19, 21 I,

375
Auemoue albana, 370 ; A. apennina
in Mr. Crowley's garden, 407 ; A.
neniorosa Alleni, 374 ; A. narcissi-
flora, 374
Apiary, the, 7, 39, 71, 119, 107, 206,
215, 247, 279, 297, 317, 337, 377,
395
Apple, Allen's Everlasting, 222, 266,
304 ; Barnack Beauty, 252 ; Beu
Davis, 250 ; Mannington's Pear-
main, 204 ; Pomme de Deux
Annees, 93 ; Smart's Prince Arthur,
122 ; tree roots and stocks, 204 ;
trees, affected by grubs, 270 ;
twigs, diseased, 125 ; Warner's
King, alias D. T. Fish, 91
Apple canker, 26(5 ; in America, 212
Apple-graft variation, 159
Apples from the Antipodes, 1S6, 218,

250, 282, 301
Arabis alpina, a double-flowered va-
riety of, 250, 2Gl3
Araucarias at Duns Castle, 107
Archnotopbienix Ciinninghamiana, 93
Ard Cairn, Cork, bloom at, 122
Arum, triple-spathed, 121
Arundinaria Faleoneri, 24 ; A. no-

bilis, 2
Aster naushanicus (nomen nudum ,

330
Asters, a new race of, 190
Aucubas, 252

Auricula, the florist's, 60, 68, ISO
Auriculas, alpine, mildewed, 270 ; at

Bracknell, 314 ; in pots, 372
Australia, amateur gardeners' rights

in, 26
Australian fruit, 91
Avenue trees, 172
Azaleas, 234

B

Baker, Mr. J. G., presentation to,

74 ; presented with the Linnean

Society's Medal, 339
Bamboo, seeding of the great (Bam-

busa arundinacca), 34
Bambuaa vulgaris, in flower, 390
Barber, Mr. C. A., appointed Madras

Government, Botanist, 201
Bean, the Velvet, 375
Beans, French. 270 ; Haricot, 13 ;

the new French climbing, 253
Bees, 14
Beel root; 30
Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, 13, 44,

62, 70, 93, 107, 139, 149, 157 : her

maphrodite, flower of, 408
Begonia Moonlight and others, 122
Begonias from China, 82 ; tuber-

rooted, 68
Belgium on the Congo, 170
Ben volent Institution. Gardeners'

Royal, 40. 73, 104, 152, 172, 339 j

annual meeting and election of

pensioners, 43 ; Samaritan Fund,

58
Berberis Andrcana, 21
Bermuda Juniper, the, 176
Betula nigra, 21
Bifrenaria Harrisonia: alba, 370
Birds and fruit-trees, 268, 285, M04
Blackberry, the, as a profitable fruit,

172
Blackbird's nest, a, in a pony's boot,

253

Books. Notices OF : — Agricultural

Year-book of the United States
Government, 399 ; An Elementary
Text-book of Botany [Sidney Vint 8,
M.A.), 11 : An Encyclopaedia of
Gardening, Ed. iii. (7'. W. Sandi rs),
380 : A Text-book of Agricultural
Zoology (F. V. Theobald, M.A.),
247 ; Botanical Magazine, 25, 170,
233, 2S2, 398; Buds and Stipules
(Sir John Lubbock), 232; Bulletin
de la Society Franeaise d'Horticul-
turedes Loudres, 212 ; Bush Fruits
(F. IV. Card), 155; Cypripedium,
Selenipedium and Uropedinm [F.
Desbois), 91 ; Dictionnaire Pratique
d'Horticnlture, 1 1 ; Die Biiume
und Striincher des Waldes ( Von
Ghistave Hempt I and Karl Wilhelm),
122 ; Die Vegetation der Erde
{Prof*. Mngler & Drude), 266;
Edible and Poisoning Fungi of
Japan (Mr. Sakamoto), 341 ;
European Orchids, sixty octavo
plates of, announced 1 .1/. < 'orn " « .
58 ; Flora of Kent (hi/ Fred. J.
Banbury), 351 ; Florilegium Haar-
lemense, 25 ; Flowering Plants of
Great Britain (Anne Pratt), 266;
Flowers and Flower-culture (H. W.
Ward), 411 ; Fuhrer durch den
Kouigliche Botauischen Garten in
Miinchen (Dr. K. Goebel). 341 ;
Gesammt,beschieibungderKacteen,
Cactacea? (Dr. Schumann), 154 ;
Hardy Fruits for the Midland Coun-
ties (A, H. Pearson), 39S ; History
of European Botanical Discoveties
in China (Dr. Bretchsneider), 32;

Hooker's Icones Plantarum, 202 ;
Illustrations du Flore du Congo
(MM. de WUdeman & Durand),
13S ; Journal of the Royal Hortieu-
tural Society, 10 ; Les Cypripedi-
ums, leur Monographic (A1. Desbois),
91 ; My Poses, and how I grew
them (Hi /< n Mi/man), 380 ; Oneand
All Gardening (E. 0. Greening),
91; Our Gardens ,s\ Reynolds
Hole), 386; Publications Received,
12.27. 58,91, 106. 122. 155, 170, 202,
234, 267, 301, 334, 359, 382, 412;
Recherches Anatomiques el I'liysio-
logiques sur le Tradescantia
virginica (A. Gravii), 58; Rbodora
(New American Journal), 42 ; Roses
in Pots ( W. Paul), ed. viii . 234 ;
Sketch of the Evolution "f oui
Native Fruits (/.. ff. Bailey), 120;
Smithsonian report, 1S7 ; The
Ambulator ; ora Pocket Companion
in a Tour round London, &e. , 1796,
113 ; The Botanical Gazette, 153 ;
The Culture of the Chrysanthemum
( W. Wells), 206 ; The Development
of Cyprus (Col. Fyler), 250;
The Fern Bulletin, 90; The
Flora of Cheshire (thi lad Lord
J, Tablet! . W10, 411 ; The Flora
of Kent, 337 ; The Garden Annual.
11 ; The Gooseberry Growers' Re-
gister, 122 ; The Guernsey < rrowers'
Gazette, 15.'{ ; The Horticultural
Directory, 1 1 ; The House Sparrow
II'. /»". Tegetmeier), 267 ; The Muni-
cipal Parks, Gardens, and Open
Spaces of London, their History
and Associations (Lieut. -Col. Sexby,
V.D.), 164; The New Gulliver,
or, Travels in Athomia i ( '. T.
Drtttry), 11; The Silva of North
America, vol. xii. (Prof. Sargent),
184 : Tie- Pests and Blights of the
Tea Plant (Geo. Wat/, M.B.), 212;
The Pond-weeds of the British
Isles (Alfred Fryer), 11 ; The
Principles of Agriculture (L. If.
Bail n . 206 ; The Romance of
Wild Flowers (Ed. Step), 206; The
Rosarian's Year Book, 24 ; Trans-
actions of the English Arborieul-
tural Society, 154 ; Weizen und
Tulpe und deren Gesehichte ( Von
IT. Grafen zu Solms-Laubach, 257,
274, 290; Welwitsch's African
Plants, part iv., 153 ; Willing's
Press Guide, 186; Wood and Gar-
den : Notes and Thoughts of a
Working Amateur ('■'< rtrudeJekyll),
155 ; Year Book of the Department
of Agriculture for 1897 (U.S.A.,
209

Botanic Gardens, New York, 74
Botanical nomenclature, 396
Breeding plants through bud selection,

129
Briscoe-Ironside, Mr., commences a

Chrysanthemum business, 10
Broccoli, good, 304. :>75 ; trade in

Cornwall, the, 294 ■
Broom-witches on a Scots Fir, 270
Bud variations, 129
Buds and stipules, 232
Bulb cultivation in Ireland, 382

Bulgaria, importation of plants into,

27
Burford, Dorking, the gardens at, 273 ;

a spray of Lapageria flowers from,

45

Cw.AiurM.s, the cultivation of, 66
Calanthes, deciduous, 214; well cul-
tivated, 12.'i
< California, landscape gardening in, 294
Cambridge Botanic Garden, 329
Camellia, out-of-doors, in Essex, the,

220
Camellias, a few good. 221 ; the cul-
tivation of, 262, 269. 2S4
I ipe, I'lunis from the, 74
Caper-bush, t he, 158
Capparis spinosa, 92
Carnation, American methods of
judging the, 235 ; C. Mrs. Thos.
W. Lawson in England, 2S3 ; C.
Princess May for winter flowering,
jo : thirty thousand dollars for a
new, 74
Carnations and Picotees in frames, 84
Carnations attacked by Acarus, 270;
diseased Malmaison, 280 ; eaten by
sparrows, 204; in America, 170;
seedling. 32; shrew-mice and
sparrows. 270: C. Souvenir de la
Malmaison, 158
Cattleya, abnormal, 406; C. Law-
renciaua, with lateral petals ad-
herent to column, 405; ('. Ludde-
manniana, 161; C. Mendeli, .'170;
C. Mossise var. Lily Duchess of
Marlljorougb, tine plant of, 411 ;
C. Percivaliana, 98 ; C. Triansei
gigantea, Ilarelield Hall var., 193 ;
C. T. Mrs. W. H. Cannon, 98 ; C.
T. West Bank House variety, 130
Cattleyas, >tc, at New-Hall-Hey, 101
Causley's folding Protectors, 261
Cedar avenue, the Lebanon, at Drop-
more, 138 ; transplanting a large,
at Southsea, 42 ; with aerial roots,
126
Cedrus Deodara nivea, 399
I ielery attacked by grubs, 159

Certificated Fruits;— Apple

Allen's Evei lasting 174; A. Bar-
nack Beauty, 174; A. Lady Pil-
kiugton, 79 ; A. Sanspareil, 109 ;
Pea, Carter's Early Morn, 255 ;
Pear, Winter Orange, 20S; Tomato,
Winter Beauty, 255

Certificated Plants :— Acalypha
Godseffiaua, 77 ; Acer pseudo pla-
tanus var. elegantissima variegata,
365 ; Anemone blanda var. Cypriaua.
254; A. sylvestris, fl.-pl., 365;
Angreecum x Veitchi, 31 ; An-
thurium X Perfection, 254 ; Auri-
cula Abram Barker, 300 ; A. Myra,
250; Azalea Betsy de Bruin, 207 ;
A. Purity, 174; BarkeriaLindleyana,
31; Bartholina pectiuata. lo.'i ;
Begonia Miss Barbara Roy, 365 ; B.
Bella Tait, 305; B. Mary
Pope, 365 ; B. Duke of Devonshire,

^365 ; Bulbophyllum modestum,

IV The Gardeners' C%roolde,]

INDEX.

[June 24, 1899.

403 ; B. nutans, 403 ; Campanemia
tiliginosa, 306 : Carnation Agnes
Sorel, 402 ; C. Don Carlos, 402 ; C.
Falcon, 402 ; C. Galatea, 402: C.Gali-
leo, 402 ; C. Florizel, 402 ; C. Gold-
finch, 402 ; C. Lady Rose, 402 ; C.
Ossian, 402 ; Cattleya Eldorado
Glebeland's var., 403 ; C. in-
termedia, Rosslyn var., 366 ;
C. Mendeli, Burford var., 366 ;
C. M. Perfection, 366 ; C. Mossise
albescens, 403 ; C. M. " Beauty of
Bush Hill," 360 ; C. M. Goos-
sensiana, 366 ; C. M. gloriosa, 366 ;
C. M. Mrs. C. H. Feiling, 366 ; C.
M. Victoria, 403 ; C. x Schofield-
jaDum superbum, 31 ; C. Trian;ei
Amesiana, 208 ; C. T. var. E.
Ashworth, 77 ; C. T. var. Memoria
Lindeni, 77 ; Cerasus Pseudo-
Ceiasus var. James H. Veitch, 324 ;
Ccelogyne pulchella, 174 : Cypri-
pedium bellatulum, Dulcote var.,
31 ; C. glanduliferum, 366 ; C. Miss
Louisa Fowler, 77 ; C. x Surprise,
143 ; C. X Wiertzianum, 77 ; C. x
Talisman, 174; Dendrobium canali-
culatum, 208; D. x Clio, Vine
House var., 255; D. x Euterpe,
20S ; D. x Wiganias xanthochilum,
174 ; Dracaena canncefolia variegata,

365 ; Epi-Cattleya Mrs. James
O'Brien x , 31 ; Epidendrum elegan-
tulum luteum, 286 ; E. x Langley-
ense, 403 ; E. umbellatum, 77 ;
Eria extinctoria, 403 ; Erica pro-
pendens, 207 ; Erythronium John-
soni, 254; Heliconia ganderi, 365;
Hippeastrums Apple Blossom,
Murelli, Robin, and Virginia, 174 ;
H. "Sir WilUam," 108; Ilex
Wilsoni, 365 ; Jatropha podagrica,
270 ; Juniperus Sanderi, 365 ;
L.-elia anceps Amesiana, Crawshay's
vai'iety , 77 ; L. a. Kosefieldiensis, 31 ;
La?lia purpurata " Annie Louise,"
360 ; La'lio - Cattleya Aphrodite,
360; L.-C. y callistoglossa "J.
Leenaann," 142; L.-C. x Krnesii
"Princess Olga." 142; L.-C. x
Imperatrice de Russie. 174; L.-C.
x Lucilia. 403 ; L. - C. x Myra
Etoile d'Or, 207 : Lapageria
rosea var., " The Knoll," 77 ;
Lathyrus splendens var. Pride
of California, 324 ; Lupinusarboreus
albus "Snow Queen," 402; Mas-
devallia Curlei, 77 ; M. ignea,
174; M. ignea Boddartiana, 174;
M. dhuttryana, Chamberlain's va-
riety, 255 ; Maxillaria Turneri,
255 ; Miltonia vexillaria Dul-
cotensis, 366 ; M. D. Lindenje,

366 ; Narcissus Brigadier, 254 ;
N. x Dorothy Kingsmill, 285 ;
N. Duke of Bedford, 254; N.
Eiknond's White, 254 ; N, Cassan-
dra, 254 ; N. Flambeau, 254 ; N.
King Alfred, 207 ; N. :: Hes-
perus, 2S5 ; N. Marina, 285 ; N.
Pope's King, 254; N. Strongbow,
254 ; N. Sunset, 254 ; N. x Trimon,
10S ; Odontoglossnm > Adriana-
Ashworthianum, 403 ; O. Ander-
soniannm obstupefaciens, 255; <>.
A. giganteum, 325 ; O. A. Mrs.
de B. Crawshay and Raymond
Crawshay, 2S6 ; O. :• Cookeanum,
142 ; O. A. "Lady Wigan," 255 ;
O. C'oradinei Crawshayanum, 403 ;
O. x C'oradinei expansum, 142 ;
O. C. mirabile, 325 ; O. crispum
Arthur Briscoe, 366 ; O. c. Ash-
worthiauum, 255; O. c. "Duke of
York," 174; O. c. "Mrs. J. Lee-
mann," 174; O. c. Purity, 325;
C). c. " Perle du Congo," 366 ; O. c.
"Raymond Crawshay," 325; O.
crispum '-Sultan," 171; O. x ex-
celleus Hyeanum, 174 ; O. e. Mc.
Beaniauum, 2S6 ; O. e. var. nobilius,
208 ; O. HjIU de Laissemanum,
366 ; O. luteo purpureum sceptrum,
325; O. uiirandum, 174; U. var.
Miss Linden, 366 ; O. polyan-
thum, 325 ; O x Ruckerianum

Crawshayanum, 142 ; O. R. Roch-
ford's var., 31 ; O. R. Rose-
fieldiense, 286 ; O. triumphans,
Dulcote var., 2S6 ; 0. t. "King
Alfred," 360; 0. x Wilckeamim,
"The Dell "var. 142; Onion Ne
Plus Ultra, 255 ; Pa>onia arborea
Cecil Rhodes, 365; P. a. Miss
Beatrice Jones, 365 ; Phaius x
Phrebe, 325 ; Phalaenopsis x Cass-
andra, 174; P. x Hermione, 174;
P. Sanderiana Wigan's var., 366;
Phyllocactus Admiration, 365; P.
Nysa, 366 ; P. J. T. Peacock Im-
proved, 636 ; Polystichum augulare
divisilobum plnmosissimum, 360 ;
Prunus pertica vulgaris alba fl.-pl ,
142 ; Rhododendron Essex Scarlet,
402 ; R. x Exquisite x Hercules,
142; Rhubarb "The Sutton," 109;
Ricbardia suffusa, 285 ; R. Pent-
landi, Tring Park var., 2S5 ; Rose
Cooling's Yellow Noisette, 402 ;
R. Purity, 402; Sophroladia x
L. laeta superba, 174 ; Sophronitis
Rossiteriana, 31 ; Thunia Ben-
sonia; superba, 366

Ceylon, frost in, 234 ; the Botanic

Gardens at, 3
Channel Isles, market-gardening in

the, 29, 45, 66, 295
Charlock, destruction of, 282
Charlottenburg, the Flora-garden,

sold for building purposes, 41 1
Chelsea Physic-garden, the, 24 ; the
New Management Committee of,
2S2
Chestnuts, eornmercial, 320
Chicory-growing in America, 124
ChiDa, Begonias from, 82 ; the flora

of, 33
Chionodoxa sardensis, 194
Chiswick Gardens, 291
Chlorosis in fruit-trees, 405
CkoiBya ternata, 172
Chrysanthemum Australie and Mr. T.
Carrington, 76 ; C. L. Canning in
bloom in April, 26S ; C. maximum,
388 ; C. Princess Blanche, 122
Chrysanthemum cultivation, 21
Chrysanthemums, 261 ; as bush
plants, 27 ; for bush culture, 44,
61 ; late-flowering. S5 ; late-flower-
ing white, 20; single -flowered,
140; hints on potting, 342; M.
Couillard's estimate of the number
of varieties of, 39
Clematis flammula, 293 ; C. montaua,
to force, 284 ; C. paniculata, 5 ;
the twelve best autumn-flowering,
179 : G. vitalba, 76, 93
Clianthus Dampieri, 332
Clivia, the, 190; C. miniata citrina,

228
Clover and grass-seeds, 30
Cfelogyue cristata at Naini Tal, 242 ;

C. pandurata. 349
Colons leaves causing skin irritation,

284 ; C. thyrsoideus, 82
Collecting new plants, the R.H.S.

and the need for, 248
Colonial notes, 3, 30, 54, 176, 315,

351
Columbines, 342
Commissions, secret, 266
Conifers, culture of, 226, 260, 304
Conservatory at Malvern House,

Mapperley, 201
Continental novelties, 131, 401
Corfu, a few notes from, 333
Cortaderia Lambleyi foliis variegatis,

335
Cotoneaster rotuudifolia, 22
Cotton plants at Liverpool, 353
Criutun Balfouri, 275 ; C. latifolium,

310
Crocuses, some earlyflowering'species

of, 100
Crossbeaks, 93
Cross-breeding, 72, 209
Crown woodlands, our, 13
Cultivation of monstrosities, SS
Cupressns Lavvsoniaua, new varieties

of, 116; C. maciocarpa, 342
Cyclam'.us, monstrous, 43

Cynomorium coccineum, 250

Cyperus natalensis, 4

Cyphomandra betacea as grown in

the temperate-house at Kew, 104
Cypripedium "Alice," 351; C. x

Calliope, 98 ; C. x Haynaldo-bella-

tulum, 50 ; C. insigne Luciani, 226 ;

flower with free sepals, 94 ; C x

leopardinum, 98 ; C. x Lucienia-

num, 66
Cypripediums, 385
Cytisus scoparius var. Andreanus,

sporting from the common Broom,

304

Daffodil, White Lady, 3S4 ; show,

the coming, at Truro, 168
Dahlias, 85 ; diseased, suggested

remedies for, 191
Daphne Mezereum, germination of,

270
Darwin statue at Oxford, '412
Dendrobium Ainsworthi x , 242 ;

D. x Cybele, Oakwood var. 258 ;

D. x Juno, 114; D. nobile Sckro-

derianum, 226 ; D. nobile virginale,

370 ; D. Pierardi latifolium and D.

primulinum giganteum, 115; D.

tetragonum, 84 ; D. Wardianum,

newly imported plants of, 242 ; D.

W. album, 289
Dianthera illustris, or Porphyrocoma

lanceolata, 310, 338
Digging, the science of, 28
Diseases of plants, experiments re-
specting the, 218 ; of the Vine, 17
Ditopella fusispora, an Alder destroy.

ing fungus, 392
Down House, Blandford, 316
Draba elegans, 3 ; D. olympica var.

heterocoma, 29
Dracarna Doucetti foliis variegatis,

291
Drinks, temperance, for harvest-time,

400
Droitwich experimental gardens, 138
Dropmore, the Lebanon Cedar avenue

at, 138, 157 ; the Douglas Fir at, 172
Dunn, the late Malcolm, 318, 321, 342.

354 ; proposed memorial to, 384, 410
Duns Castle, 49, 68 ; the Araucarias

at, 107
Dyer, Sir W. T. Thiselton, k.c.m.g.j S

Eijce Hall, Malpas, flower notes
from, 393

Elieagnuses, 101

Ela?ocarpus cyaneus, 400

Elisena lougipetala, 310

Elm tree parasite( Polyporus ulmari ns) .
392

Emigration, 29, 234

Engleheart, the Rev. George H., 163

Epi-Cattleya, Mrs. J. O'Brien, 37

Epideudrum umbellatum, 9S, 146

Erauthis cilicicus, 194, 22S

Erica Chamissonis and other species,
228 ; E. mediterranea growing in
swampy places, and with rolled
leaves, 327 ; E. multiflora, 4 ; E.
propendens, 228 ; E. scoparia, 4 ; E.
stricta, 4 ; E. tetralix (the cross-
leaved Heath), 4 ; E. vagans (Cor-
nish Heath), 4 ; E. Watsoni x , 4

Eucalyptus, 189 ; E. cordata, flower-
ingsprayof, from Ireland, 58; E. glo-
bulus, 76 ; in the open, 13, 28, 43,
194; in India, &c, 162; E. Gunni,
202 ; influence of the soil and the
graft upon, 145

Eucalyptuses, &c, 209, 220; in
England, 18, 84 ; in Rome, 1 ; in
Ireland, 61

Eulalia japonica variegatj, &c. , 123

Eulophiella Elisabethse, 383

Evolution in the garden, 177
Examinations in horticulture, the

R.H.S., 415
Exhibits, increase of show, 13, 43, 76,

106

Fern fronds, to preserve, 240

Fern hybrids, 14S

Fern propagation by apospory, 210

Fern stealing, 268

Ferns, 114 ; British, for conserva-
tories, 370 ; the genealogy of, 382 ;
filmy, in a cool frame, 124, 140

Fertilisation in Lilium Martagou,
282

Floral devices, 251

Florida, cold weather in, 158, 187

Florist, an old Scotch, 309

Florists' flowers, 20, 60, 68, S4, 140,
179

Flower garden, the, 6, 23, 38, 55, 70,
87, 102, 119, 134, 151, 166, 182,
196, 214, 230, 246, 263, 279, 297,
316, 337, 356, 377, 394, 409

Flowers, artificial, "natural," 154;
old, and their growers, 384 ; on
midsummer shoots of Apple and
Peach, 302; spring, on grass, 219

Forestry, 163, 194, 244, 353, 4061

Forestry, abroad and at home, 165 ;
as a profession in India, 278

Forsythias, the, 284

Freaks, 43

Freelands, Perthshire, N.B., Orchids
at, 66

Freesias, the cultivation of, 68

Friderica agricola (a new worm), 391

Fritillary, 250

Frost, effect of, on tropical plan's,
367

Fruit crops, prospects of the, 203 ;
cultivation of, by farmers, 137 ;
experiments at Woburn, the Duke
of Bedford's, 174

Fruit, from the Cape, 42, 64, 91, 100,
121, 169, 186, 202, 266 ; from Tas-
mania, 153 ; growers, facts for,
399 ; growing experiments at Wyo-
ming, 291 ; growing in Kent, 323,
345 ; imports, value of, 58 ; pro-
tectors, celluloid, 1SS

Fruit-tree bark weevil, 314

Fruit-trees, chlorosisin,405 ; manurial
requirements of orchard, 36

Fruits, a new protector for ripening,
173 ; extra hardy, iu America, 211;
the evolution of, 120

Fruits under glass, 6, 22, 38, 54, 70,
87, 103, 118, 135, 150, 167, 181,
199, 215, 247, 262, 270, 2115, il7,
336, 357, 376, 395, 408

Fuchsias, 158

Fulham Palace Gardens, 138

Fungi, destructive, 392

Galanthus "Cassalia," 165 ; G. cili-
cicus," 191 ; G. Melvillei, 172

Galanthuses, 129

Gardening, natural, 349 ; not healthy,
300; old-time, 235

Gardens, history of, 00

Geneva University, the fire at, 121

Geranium sanguineum album, 18

Germany, a gardener's wages in, 194,
252

Ginkgo biloba, distinctive charac-
teristic of the sexes of, 201

Glasuevin, the Botanical Gardens at,
241

Glastonbury Thorn, the, 93

Glebelands, Orchids at, 130

Gloxinias, 51

( roldfussia anisophylla, 228

Gooseberry Cluster-cups, 355, 359

Grape, the classes, at Shrewsbury,
12; judging, 27, 44, 62 ; var. Pro-
fessor Biuvenich. 90

The Gardeners' Chronicle.)

INDEX.

[June 24, 1899.

Grapes, in competition, relative value

of, 44 ; in Surrey, 395
Grass, spring-flowers on, 219
Greek Currants, 304
Guernsey, horticulture in, 46, 66 ;

the Caledonian Nursery in, 45;

Lilies, 45
Gunuersbury Park and House, 257,

258, 333

H

H-'Emanthus cinnabarinus, 228
Hall, a horticultural, 298
Hamptead Heath protection, 137
Hampton Court Gardens, 381
Haricot Beans, 13
Hardy fruit-garden, the, 6, 22, 38,

55, 71, 86, 103, 118, 135, 150, 167,

182, 198, 214, 231, 246, 263, 279,

297, 316, 337, 356, 377, 304, 409
Hatfleld Priory, Witham, 312
Heaths, the hardy, 4
Hemerocallis, diseased, 344, 415
Hepatica angulosa, varieties of, 228,

285 ; the, 178, 227
Hippeastrum Arechavalet.e, 332 ;

H. organense, 310
Hippeastrums at Westonbirt, 301
Holland House, the garden at, 225,

267, 304
Holly, the yellow-berried, 21
Hollyhock disease, 94
Hollyhocks, 60, 68
Horner, presentation to the Rev.

F. D., 359
Horseradish cultivation, 118
Hugel, a monument to the late Baron

K. A., Von, 300
Humphreys, H, presentation to,

266
Hyacinth, with eight spikes of bloom,

26; Charles Dickens, 216; stem

and leaves growing downwards,

270
Hybrid Ferns, 148
Hybrids, spontaneous, of hardy

plants, 132, 148, 164, 17S, 210,259,

276
Hybridisation Conference, arrange-
ments for the, 41
Hybridisation cross, 72
Hyde Park, the proposed laying of

water mains in, 104, 121
Hynienocallis schizostephaua, 386 ;

the species of, 258

I

Iberis, Little Gem, 353 ; Perfection,
353 ; Perfection, and the raiser,
384

Ilsington House, Dorchester, 350

Impatiens mirabilis, 3S2

Income-tax, repayments, 12

Ipomopsis elegans var. , 100

Ireland, a view in the Scalp Pass,
121 ; notes from, 228, 376, 412

Iris-bulbs, diseased, 412

Iris stylosa, 84

Ivy leaves eaten, 189, 220

Ivy, Traveller's, 123

Jadoo fibre, 62 ; its use in the case of

Vines, 42
Jersey, gardening in, 116, 204, 237
Johannesburg, notes from, 276 ;

Public Park, 321 ; the flora of, 407
Judging-point, aud decorating fruit,

27
Juniper, the Bermuda, 176
Juniporua virginiana (Bed Cedar),
• 91
Justice, J. : an old Scotch Florist,

309
Jyree, 90

K

Kelwav, the late Jas., 354
Kentield, Canterbury, 398
Kerria japonica, a variety of, 354
Kew, Notes, 82, 228, 310, 333, 382
Kew, in 1842, 250, 334 ; a Cycle-house
at, 216, 381 ; gardeners to be dressed
in blue serge, 283 ; the cyclist's
rest at, 233 ; the temperate-house
at, 193 ; transporting Rhododen-
drons from Tremough to, 4
Kind and variety, 320
Kitchen Garden, the, 7, 22, 39, 55, 71,
86, 102, 119, 134, 151, 166, 182, 196,
215, 230, 247, 262, 279, 296, 317,
336, 357, 376, 394, 409
Knowles, presentation to Mr. C. W.,
202

Lachenalia quadricolor, 382

L;i'liaaucepsSanderiana, at Highbury,

136 ; L. autumnalis, varieties of, S4 ;

L. purpurata "Annie Louise," 389 ;

L. purpurata Schroderi, 370
Ltelio-Cattleya x Ernesti " Princess

Olga," 149; L.-C. x Gottoiana,

130
Land deteriorate, does, 305
Lantana pest in Mysore, 111
Lapageria, a spray of, from Burford,

45
Lapagerias in the open air, 13
Lathyrus latifolius albus grandiflorus.

411
Laurel-Cherry, the history of the,

282

Law Notes :— Australian Gardeners'
case (planting of trees near the
fence line), 2(5 ; Bath v. Gillett
(value for goods sold), 125 ; Ellis v.
The Duke of Bedford (Covent Gar-
den case), 107 ; Green v. Cann &
Co. (failure to keep contract), 187 ;
Headley, Rev. A., 125 ; Inland
Revenue Board v. Treeby (licensing
case), 94, 107, 125, 190, 237 ; Jarmau
& Co. v. Sexton (obtaining goods by
false pretences), 141 ; Poisoned grain
on land, 323 ; Prosecution of Fern
collectors, 271 ; Shaw v. Homan
(claim for plans made), 413 ; Smith,
George, 125 ; Solon Denson (Bank-
ruptcy case), 173

Lawson's, Mr., offer of 5000 dollars
for a Carnation, 170

Lazenby, presentation to Mr. John,
218

Leaf-action in terrestrial Orchids. 42

Leaves, autumn coloration of, 17"

Lee, Jno., the late, 93

Leptospermum scoparium, 76

Liege, the Botanical Institute, 10

Light upon plants, Dante and the
action of, 186

Lilac, forcing in Germany, 69 ; how
forced in Paris and here, 272

Lilies of the Sierra Nevada, 277

Lilium, a conspectus of the genus,
359 ; L. anratum in Scotland, 303 ;
L. Henryi as grown in the tempe-
rate-house, Kew, 11

Lily, the Bermuda, 352

Lime, to ascertain if a soil contains,
320

Lobelia Khynchopetalum, 82

Loddiges, and steam-heatiug of glass-
houses, 213 ; library, sale of, 57

London suburban gardens in 1796,
113

Lonicera Hildebrandiana, 3S2 ; L.
Standishi, 194, 221

Lourya campanulata, 116, 126

Luxembourg garden, the, 1 1

Lychnis Viscaria splendens, flore-
plena, 189

M

Macdougal, Dr. , appointment to New

Vork Botanic Gardens of, 250
McKenzie, Mr. A., retirement of,
from treasurer to Royal Scottish
Horticultural Association, 60
Madresfield Court Gardens, 50
Malabar, seeding of Bambusa arundi-

naria in, 34
Manure and plant-ash, 13, 28
Manures, chemical, for pot-plants,

386, 390
.Manuring fruit-trees in Holstein, 381
Market gardening, 118, 162, 242; in
the Channel Isles, 29, 45, 116, 204,
221, 236, 295 ; in the Midlands,
243 ; under glass, 206
Masdevallia muscosa, 383
Maxillaria Turneri, 258
May-Day North o' Tweed, 285
Mentmore, 389

Metropolitan open spaces, 381
Mildew on Vines, hot-water treat-
ment of, 334, 353, 383, 400, 413
Monstrosities, the cultivation of, 88
Montanoa heracleifolia, 101
Mulgedium cacalia-folium, 100
Muscari, the, 292, 312 ; M. racemo-

sum carneum, 67
Mushrooms, 76 ; in pastures, 44 ;
spoiled by mould, 61, 131, 158; in
an Edinburgh railway - tunnel,
affected by fungi, 131 ; out-of-doors,
27 ; the nutritive value of, 121
Myrtle, the famous, at Duns Castle,

49
Mysore, the Lautana pest in. 91

N

Narcissi, hybrid, 191; inScilly, the,

171; N. X Parmenia, 284, 300;

Society, a proposed, 269 ; N. trian-

drus var. concolor, 336
Nature's compensations, 12
Naudin, Chas., the late, 200
Nemeaias, 304
Nerines in Guernsey, 45
New-Hall-Hey, Cattleyas, &c, at,

101
New South Wales, agriculture aud

forestry of, 196
Nightingale on Wimbledon Common,

the, 301
Nomenclature, the need for uniformity

of, 177, 216, 396
Nova Scotia, Apple spraying in, 373 ;

orchards, 78
Novelties of 1S9S, 2, 19, 53
Novices, notes for. 28, 74

Nursery Notes.— Balchin, W. &

Sons, 245 ; Becker, H., Jersey, 221 ;
Godfrey, W. J., 140 ; Guilbert, A.
J., Guernsey, 29 : James & Sons,
Faruham Royal, 141 ; Laing, John,
& Sons, 189 ; L'horticulture Inter-
nationale, Brussels, 262; Sander
& Co., F., Bruges, 305 ; Smales, F.,
Torquay, 344 ; Veitch & Sons, Jas. ,
Chelsea, 230 ; Waterer, Anthony,
414

Nursery, the home, 244
Nympha;a " Marie Lagrange," 218

Oak, the Brynderwen, 169 ; the
Lucombe, 13

OBITUARY : — Anderson, Jas., 414;
Baker, W. E. H., 191 ; Bartik,
Anton, 153 ; Barton, Major H. L.,
142 ; Binns, Sir Henry, 386 ; Chap-
man, Dr. A. W., 266 ; Chard, J. W.,
271; Cragg, J., 414; Darbhanga,
H.R.H. the Maharaja of, 25 ;
Delchevalerie, M., 240 ; Dickson,

T. A., 306 ; Drummond, Peter,
414 ; Dunn, Malcolm, 306 ; How-
croft, F., 160; Hudson, Samuel,
20S ; Kerchove, Dowager Countess
de, 240 ; Lady Louisa Fortescue,
26; Lambert, Geo., 64; Kelway,
James, 343 ; Lee, John, 56 ; Lutz,
Paul, 14 ; Murray, W., 191 ;
Naudin, Chas. , 200 ; Nicoll, John,
79; Port, Rev. Canon du, 141;
Rowe, C. J., 160 ; Saltmarsh.
Thos. J., 401 ; Savage, Geo., 301 1 ;
Sibbald, Thomas, 190 ; Soppitt, H.
T., 239 ; Stein, B., 240 ; Wheeler,
A. C, 47 ; Wollaston, George
Buchanan, 208

Ocean, the, as a reserve of heat, 216

Odontoglossum x Audersouianum,
Westonbirt var. , 115; 0. Ad-
rianse "Lady Wigan," 258; O. x
Coradinei, West Bank House var. ,
315; O. crispum, Rosslyn var.,
18 ; 0. x crispo-Halli, 349 ; O.
Halli, 330 ; O. luteo-purpureum
Vuylstekeanum, 226 ; O. Sau-
derianum, 130 ; O. Wilekeanum,
what constitutes, 82, 123, 157

Oleander, the, 5

Oncidium Warscewiczii, 258

Onion crop, the current year's, 76

Onions, autumn versus spring-sown,
92

Oodeypore, 90

Open spaces, 106

Orange, introduction of the, into
Europe, 107

Orchard and fruit-trees, manurial re-
quirements of, 36, 160

Orchards, of Nova Scotia, 78, the
Clydesdale, 289

Orchid-breeding, curiosities of, 14,
36, 02

Orchid-houses, the, 5, 23, 38, 54, 71,
86, 103, 118, 135, 150, 167, 181,
19S, 214, 231, 246, 263, 278, 296,
317, 336, 356, 376, 394, 409

Orchid notes and gleanings, 17, 37,
50, 66, 84. 98, 115, 161, 193, 257,
289, 315, 330, 346, 370. 389, 405

Orchid, the Lizard, rediscovered on
the Kentish Downs, 320

Orchids, at Clare Lawn, 242 ; at
Freelands, Perthshire, N.B., 66; at
Glebelands, South Woodford, 130;
leaf-action in terrestrial, 42 ; new,
in the Imperial Botanic Gardeu,
St. Petersburg, 171 ; new or rare,
figured in the Gardeners' Chronicle
during 1898, 20 ; sale of, at Man-
Chester, 328 ; the stamens of, 413

Orphan Fund, the Royal Gardeners'
73, 76, 90, 121, 126, 143, 188, 201,
269, 282

Osier cultivation, 327

Oulton Hall, Leeds, 12

Oxalis cernua, 100

P.eony disease, a 282, 351
Pasonies, herbaceous and tree, 52
Palm, the Talipot, iu the Ceylon

Botanic Gardens, 3
Panax Mastersianus, with spray of

male flowers, 415
Pancratiums, continuous flowering of,

124
Pansy disease, a, 266
Pansy, the, its names and evolution,

306 ; the fancy, introduction of

the, 343
Pansies, fancy, 414
Papaver radicatum, 100
Paphiopedium barbato-Charlesworthi

x, 3
Paracaryum angustifolium, 100
Parasite, the, Cynomorium coecineum

growing in Mr. Hanbury's garden,

250
Paris Exhibition of 1900, the, 137,

152, 378 ; amount of space for
British horticulturists at, 169
Parks aud open spaces, 320

yi The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

Utane 24, 1899,

Passiflora racemosa, 172 ; syn. prin-

ceps, 203
Pasture problem, a, 391
Pathology, vegetable, 300
Pavetta borbonica, 09
Pea, Carters' Forcing, 30; Cradus,

62
Peach and Nectarine-trees, retarding,

354
l\ach, diseased, 41")
rear-blossom, abuormal, 359
Pear Doyenne a Cinq Pans, 132 ;

Frau Louise Goethe, 132 ; Midge,

the, 342 ; tree with caterpillar,

126
Pears, cracking of, 218 ; notes on

some late winter, 140
Pelargonium crithmifolium, 19 ; P.

Ivy-leaved, Mrs. Hawley, 394 ; P.,

zonal, Gloire de France, 401
Peloriate Deudrobium, 305
Pencils, and of what they are made,

302
Penge recreation ground, succulents

bedded out iD the, 41
Peridermium Plowrighti, experiments

with, 415
Petersham Common, scheme respect-
ing, 11
Petunia, a malformed double, 416
Phaius, a new hybrid, 115 ; x P. Cook -

soniaB, 349
Phakenopsis Mrs. J. H. Veitch, 114;

P. tetraspis, 3S2
Phormium tenax, 139
Photographing flowers, 356
Physic garden at Chelsea, the, 24
Pine-needles, decayed two-year-old,

411
Pinus Merkusii, 351 ; P. Montezuma?,

146 ; P. sylvestris, proliferous buds

of, 4()li
Plantago uniflora, 100
Plants, novelties in, 144

Plant Portraits : Acacia alata,
219 ; A. longifolia var. Sophorae,
360 ; Acalypha Chautrieri, 300 ; A.
hispida, 25 ; Alnus uitida, 2S2 :
AmpelopsisGraebneri, 300 ; Angrse-
cumsuperbuiu, 140; Apple Keinette
de Caux 360 ; Azalea iudica, 219 ;
Beaumontia purpurea, 27 : Begonia
venosa, 398; Bessera elegaus. 27;
Bignonia buccinatoria, 12; Bomarea
Carderi, 219; Catananche coerulea,
398 ; Cattleya labiata, 27 ; C.
Mendeli var. Princess Clementine,
14li ; O. Trianaei, var. Hofgartner
Wundel, 122: Ceanothus integerri-
mus, 90 ; Cereus Paxtonianus, 233 ;
Chrysanthemum nipponieum, 398 ;
C. Souvenir de Madame Heleue
de Reydellet, 382 ; Cienkowskya
Kirki, 301 ; Cirropetalum gutta-
tum, 140 ; 0. ornatissimum, 146 ;
Coelogyne speciosa, 146; Crinum
rimbriatum, 133; Cycnocheschloro-
chilon, 122 ; Cypella Herberti, 122 ;
Cypripedium aureum, 140; < '.
Calypso , 140; C. 'J'. W. Pond,
146; C. Wiertziauum x, 146 ;
( iyrtanthus parviflorus, 282; Dahlia
Maximiliana, 282 ; Deudrobium
eapillipes, 90 ; D. nobile, 146 ;
Diervilla Wagneri x , 301 ; Dioon
edule var., 219 ; Dryandra calo-
phylla, 170; Ecbiuocactus YVhip-
plei, 219 ; Kleagnus macrophylla,
911 ; Epilobium obcordatum, 90 ;
Erodium Manescavi, 382; Fendlera
rnpicola, 219 ; Fuchsia corymbi-
flora, 133; F. Monarch, 27; Gaul-
theria trichophylla, 26 ; Centiaua
Burseri, 90; Gladiolus Quartinia-
nus superbus, 412 ; Gynopleura hu-
niilis, 170; HabeuariaSusanme, 140 ;
Helenium autumnale superbum,
301 ; Helianthus mollis, 219 ;
Herbertia pulchella, 122 ; Hibiscus
cannabinus, 382 ; Hyacinth Chas.
Dickens, 219 : H. Mont Blanc, 25 ;
Incarvillea grandiflora, 27 ; I.
variabilis, 233 ; Icnpatiens Roylei
var. pallidiriora, 233 ; Iris Delavayi,
39S ; I, hispanica, varieties of, 25 ;

Kleinia pendula, 398 ; Kniphotia
Nelsoni, 219; K. Tucki, 170;
Lielia prestaus var. Luciaui, 146 ;
LewisiaTweedyi, 25 ; Liatrispycno-
stachya, 3S2 ; Ligustrum japonicum
variegatum, 219 ; Lilium rubellum,
26; Lissochilus Graelii, 219; Lo-
belia Rivoirei x, 133; Magnolia
Watsoni, 219 ; Masdevallia Harry-
ana, 140; Meconopsisheterophylla,
26 ; Miltonia vexillaria var. Me-
moria Lindeni, 146; Monea sul-
phurea, 398 ; Milla biflora, 27 ;
Narcissus, varieties of, 219 ; Nerine
undulata, 27 ; Nicotiana sylvestris,
2S2 ; Odontoglossum crispum var.
LaMerveille, 146; 0. Rolfea . 140;
O. Sclilieperianum var. xauthina,
146 ; Oncidium Jonesianum, 146 ;
Pa?onies Margaret Attwood and
the Mikado, 27 ; Passiflora amabilis,
382 ; P. iucarnata, 133 ; P. prui-
uosa, 170; Pear Doyenne d'Alen-
90n, 301 ; P. Petite Marguerite,
12; Phacelia eampanularia, 122;
Plum Gloire d'Epiuay, 219; P.
satBuma, 219 ; Phygelius capensis,
122 ; Primulas, Chinese, fringed
petalled varieties of, 133 ; Prunus
Myrobalana roseo-pleua, 122 ; Rho-
dodendron diversifolium x , 301 ;
Rosa acicularis, 170; Rose Autoine
Rivoire, 122 ; R. Countess de
Turenne. 39S ; R. Mrs. \V. J.
Grant, 219 ; Rose Souvenir de
Pierre Notting, 412 ; Russelia sar-
mentosa, 219; Salvia Goudoti,
412 ; Scilla campanulata, 122 ;
Silene Fortunei. 233 ; Solidago
uemoralis, 301 : Sophronitiscernua,
14b' ; Sorbus aucuparia dulcis, 382 ;
Statice Suworowi, 382; Tremandra
ericuides var. hirsuta, 412 ; Tulips
Joust van der Vondel, 25 ; T , va-
rieties of, 219; Veronica Dieffeu-
baehi, 2S2 ; Yucca elata, 233

Plants, new, of, 1S98, 2, 9, 33

Plants, New and Noteworthy :—
Arundinaria nobilis at Menabilly,
2; CeaDotbus integerrimus, 90;
Deudrobium eapillipes, 90 ; Elseag-
nus macrophylla, 90 ; Epilobium
obcordatum, 90; Gentiana Burseri,
90 ; Ins Tubergeniana, 225 ; Mina
cordata, 114; Paphiopedium bar-
bato-Charlesworthi x , 3 ; Passi-
flora " Margaret Wilson," 81 ;
Pyrus Thianschaniea, 389 ; Thamuo-
chortus insignis, 242

Plauts under glass. 7, 22, 39. 54, 70,
87, 103, 119, 134, 151, 100, 182,
198, 214, 231, 240. 263, 279, 297,
310, 337, 357, 377, 395, 40s

Plants, where are some old ?, 400

Platyceriums at Kew, 232

Platycodon glaucum, 100

Plum, the, in market gardening, 242

Plums, hybrid, in America, 121

Podophyllums, 203

Poppies, spontaneous hybrids in, 200

Poppy, Shirley, seeds of, gradually
becoming grey, 159

l'orphyrocoma lanceolata. Sue Dian-
thera.

Post, the Colonial parcel, 10

Potash as a dressing for land under
fruit trees, 48

Potato-disease, stamping out, 146

Potato, experiments by the Wilts
County Council, 138 ; grafting, re-
markable result of, 187 ; iu France,
1781, a.d., the, 177; new and old
varieties of the, 203 ; P. Wood-
stock Kidney, 1(17

Potatos, early, 230; experiments on
crosB-breeding, 78 ; Mr. Dibbeu's,
172 ; Syou House Prolific, 203

Potentilla alchemilloides, 18

Powis Castle Gardens, 353

Primula, the Chinese, 179 ; P. ob-
couica and P. sinensis, causing
irritation to skin, 12, 36, 171, 201,
220, 252, 268, 305

Primulas at Reading, 75 ; P. flori-
bunda and verticiilata, 350

Priority, the law of, 233

Protea cynaroides, 382

Protector, a new, for fruits whilst
ripeuiug, 173

Protectors, Causley's Folding, 201

Pruning competition, a, 130

Pruning, Roses, 116 ; shrubs, 157

Prunus Pissardi in late winter, 139

Pulmonaria rubra, 100

Pycnostachys urticifolia, S2. 123

Pyrethrum Starckianum, 100

Pyrus corouaria, fl.-pl., 397

QrKEX. an Oak-tree planted by the,

339
Queen's birthday honours, 380
Queen's birthday, tree planted at

Carlisle, 35S
Queensland, fruits and flowers in,

196

R

Rail, garden products by, 380

Railway rates, 153 ; ruinous, 121

Railways, the amalgamation of the
South-Eastern and London, Chat-
ham & Dover, 109

Bain fall of 1898, 18

Ramie cultivation iu Korea, 335

Ranunculus Sommieri. 117

Raspberry-bud caterpillar, 384

Renauthera Imschootiaua, 3S2

Restio family, the, 248

Restrepia triehoglossa, 349

Rhododendron Championai. 3S2 ; P.
cilicalyx, 57 ; R. decorum, 382,
389 ; R. Kingianum, 382

Rhododendrons at Regent's Park,
411 ; some new, 180, 331 ; removal
of, from Tremough to Kew, 4

Rhubarb leaves as a vegetable, 340,
.■153. 3S1, 400

Rhus Toxicodendron and its remedy,
199

Richardia suffusa, 310; two-spathed,
120

i ilia-. IS9

Rockeries, is elevation necessary iu,
283

Rock-garden, the, IS ; at Little Silver,
High Bickiugton, the, 310

Rome and its environs, the flora of,
153; Eucalyptuses, &c, in, 1, 18;
horticultural features of, 97 ; the
flora of the Colosseum at, 05

Rosa, species of, wherewith to effect
crosses, 170

Pose, climbing Devoniensis, a large
plant of, 342 ; Fortune's Yellow,
250 ; Liberty, 260 ; Madame Wa-
gram, Comtesse de Turenne, 401 ;
Marechal Niel, 157, 205, 220, 208 ;
" Papa Lambert," 71 ; Queen Mab,
93 ; W. Allen Richardson, 70 ;
season, prospects of the, 270

Pose garden iu March, 102

Rose-house, in the, 194

Buses, Fortune's Yellow and Sunrise,
276 ; new, of 1896, '97, and '98,
52, 293 ; in Scotland, 406 ; prun-
ing, lib' ; reliable, 53; snow as a
protection to, 93 ; soil ver.tu.i
climate in the culture of, 81 ; the
pruning of, 212

Rubber plauts, 137 ; a Madagascar,
404

Rudbeckia maxima, 117; R. pur-
purea nana, 117

Buxley Lodge gardens, 293

S u< ni.AHU'.u ampullaceum and S.

curvifoliuin, 330
St. Petersburg Exhibition, 153
Salads, winter, 252, 270, 2S4 ; in

England, 220, 236

Salvia ringens, 117

Samolus repens, 117

Sanioula marylandica, 117

San Josr scale, 26

Sapouaria glutiuosa and S. pulvinaris,

117
Saxifraga, corbariensis, 117 ; cu-

neata, 118; spontaneous hybrids

in, 260
Scale insects, 262 ; the San Jose, 26

Scientific Committee (Royal Hor-
ticultural Society) :— .Fcidiumgros-
sularias, 3, 44 ; Apple-graft varia-
tion, 159 ; trees diseased and
affected by grubs, 270 ; twigs,
diseased, 125 ; Auricula, alpine,
mildewed, 270 ; Broom, Witch's,
on a Scots Fir, 270 ; bulbous
plants, malformed, 270 ; Carnations
and Chrysanthemums attacked by
insects, 222 ; Carnations diseased,
and attacked by Acarus, 270 ;
Ceilar with aerial roots, 126;
Celery attacked by grubs, 159 ;
Cyclamen, fasciated, 94; Cypri-
pedium flower, with free sepals,
94; Dahlias, diseased, 191; expe-
riments with Coleosporium and
Tussilago, 415 ; Eucalyptus species
from out-of-doors, 94 ; Hemero-
callis leaf diseased, 415 ; Holly-
hock disease, 94 ; Hyacinth stem
aud leaves growing downwards,
270; Hybrid Narcissi, 191; Ja-
tropha podagriea, 270 ; Lourya
campanulata, 120; Mildness of the
Season, 46 ; Morel, a specimen of,
found glowing singly, 344 ; Nar-
cissus, aberrant forms of, 222 ; Nar-
cissi, hybrid, 222 ; Oak, elfect of
lightning ou an, 270; Odontoglossum
crispum, 270 ; Orchid, bigenerio, 40 ;
Panax Mastersiauus, a spray of
male flowers of. 415; Peach, diseased,
415; Pear-tree with caterpillars,
126 ; Peridermium Plowrighti, 415 ;
Podisoma on Savin, 344 ; Potatos,
experiments on crossbreeding, 78 ;
Potato grafting, 94 ; Richardia, two-
spathed, 120; Seeds of Shirley Pop-
pies showing variatiou, 159; Sweet
Pea seeds, 159; Sycamore, flow of
sap In a, during frost, 222; Thuia
gigantea ( plica ta) barked, 40 ;
Vines, malformed, 270

Scilla italica alba, 68 ; S. Lilio-
Hyacinthus alba, 07

Sciou ou stock, the effect of (Potato),
187

Scolytus rugulosus (fruit-tree wee-
vil I, 314

Scotland, 141, 219, 406

Scottish Manse, notes from a, 99, 148,
259 275, 372

Seaside planting, 338, 369

Sea-water and its effects on vegeta-
tion, 11

Seed-house, an old, 220

Seedling Carnations, 32

Seeds, cleaning, 44 ; of trees, 99

Seleuipedium macrochilum giganteum,
360 ; S. Schruderix , 405

Selagiuella, species of, worthy of
cultivation, 140

Sequoia gigantea, and other trees in
Hertfordshire, 204

Shading of glasshouses, 410

Shamrock, the, 1S9, 203

Shaw Medal, the, St. Louis, Missouri,
359

Sherwood Cups, conditions to be
observed in the competition for the,
121, 413

Show exhibits, increase of, 43 ; pre-
paring for the, 349

Shrubs, hardy flowering, 253 ; on
lawns, 130

Suow as a protection to Boses, 93

Snowdrop, the date of flowering of,
57

Snowdrops, species of, 129

SOCIETIES : — American Carnation,
170 ; Antwerp Boyal Horticultural,

The Gardeners' Chroniclt,]

INDEX.

[June 24, 1899. Ylj

238 ; Bath and West and Southern
Counties, 366; Benefit and Pro-
vident United Horticultural (an-
nual meeting), 17") ; Bournemouth
Chrysanthemum and Horticultural,
23S ; Brighton and Sussex Horti-
cultural, 191 ; Bristol and District
Mutual Improvement, 46, 94, 14.'i,
175, 366 ; Chambre Syndicale of
Ghent, 43, 90, '234 ; Chester Paxton,
63, 143, 191, 238; Chesterfield
Chrysanthemum, 110, 271 ; Coal-
smoke Abatement, 137 ; Cornwall
Daffodil, 191 ; Devon and Exeter
Gardeuers', 63, 94, 159, 191, 218;
Dumfriesshire and Galloway Hor-
ticultural, 126, 271 ; Edinburgh
Field Naturalists', 143, 359 ;
French National Chrysanthemum,
63 ; Gardeners' Company, the, 233 ;
Ghent Agricultural and Botanical,
170 ; Ghent Horticultural and
Botanical, 10(1; Hamilton Horti-
cultural and Forestry, 94 ; Hereford-
shire Association of Fruit-growers,
106, 143; Horticultural Club, 43,
121. INC. 334, 411; Isle of Wight,
Chrysanthemum, 31 ; Isle of Wight
Horticultural, 47, 79, 126, 159;
Kew Guild, annual meetingof, 137 ;
Linnean, 63, 110, 137, 169, 202,
280, 280, 33S, 358, 397 ; Manches-
ter and North of England Orchid,
46, 126, 143, 192, 208, 270, 271,
288, 325, 403; National Auricula
(Northern Section), 306 ; National
Auricula aud Primula, 154, 255,
271 ; National Gar nation and Pico-
tee, 186; National Chrysanthe-
mum, 110, 217; auuual meeting,
95 ; Nursery and Seed Trade, 154 ;
Nurserymen, Market Gardeners'
Hailstorm Insurance, 222 ; People's
Palace Horticultural, 79. 94 ; Pres-
ton and Fulwood Horticultural,
159; Beading Gardeners, 126, 143,
175, 222, 238 ; Renfrewshire Gar-
deners', 126 ; Koyal Botanic, 73,
239, 326, 416 ; Royal Botanical and
Horticultural of Manchester, 344;
Royal Caledonian Horticultural,
238; Royal Horticultural, 31, 125,
142, 173, 207, 253, 2S5, 324,401 ;
R. H. S., report of, for year
1S9S-9, 41, 46, 58, 77. 107 ; R. H. S.,
annual meeting of the, 104, 109;
R. H. S., Temple show, 358, 360 ;
Royal National Tulip, 326 ; Royal
Scottish Arboricultural, 64, 7S ; St.
Petersburg International Exhibi-
tion, 344 ; Scottish Horticultural,
32, 110, 159, 416 ; Sherborne Gar-

deners', 126 ; Shirley and District
Gardeners' Mutual Improvement,
47, 127 ; Societe Franeaise d'Horti-
culture de Londres, 46 ; Southern
Counties Carnation, 1S6 : Torquay
Gardeners', 208, 218 ; Ulster Hor-
ticultural, 46 ; Wakefield Paxton,
218, 238; Wargrave and District
Gardeners', 31, 63, 94, 126, 1. 57,
191, 238; York Gala, 40, 403

Soils, the fertility of, 329
Solanum capsicastrum, the cultiva-
tion of, 3; S. macroearpum, 189
Sorbus aucuparia and S. dulcis laci-

niata, 293
South African notes, 292, 321, 332,

367, 407
Southsea, transplanting a large Gedar

at, 42
Spiraea discolor (aria-folia), 21, 43, 62
Spitaltields Market, proposed pur-
chase of the, 201
Spraying, Apple, in Nova Scotia, 373
Spraying fruit-trees, &c, 320, 359
Statice latifolia, 376
Stauropsis lissochiloides var. Mas-

saiana, 17
Stenoglottis lougifolia. s I
Steriliser, Week's, 190
Stiusford House, Dorchester, 83
Stock-taking, 26, 90, 154, 233, 301,

3! IS
Stock, a uew giant winter-flowering,

352
Stock, the Paradise Apple, 351, 385,

398
Stocks for Apple-trees, 264
Straits Settlements, botanio garden

of the. 19(1
Strawberry plants and the removal of

runners, 217
Strawberries, Mr. Bennett's, 157:

Noble and Boyal Sovereign, 130
Suburban gardens in 1796, 113, 157
Succulents, bedded-out, iu Penge

Recreation Ground, 41
Summer-quarters for exotic plants,

334
Sweet Peas, early, 102 ; seeds of,

152

Taxation of gardenei ee Law

Notes).
Temple show, points about the, 358,

500, 579, 385
Tetrathcca pilosa var. tloribunda,

316

Thalictrum aquilegifolium atropur-
pureum, 189

Thamnochortus insiguis, 2 12

Thorneycroft's, Miss, exhibition of
garden pictures, 137

Tlmia gigantea (plicata), barked stem
of, 40

Tibet, flowers and vegetables in, 74

Tibouohina (Lasiandra) macrautha in
I 'oruwall, 93

Timber, Australian ». Swedish. 334

Tomato seed cleaning, 28, 44, 124; a
German method of, 194

Tomatos, in America, 150 ; train..!
spirally, 15, 01

Tomtits, 323

Tree (Queen's Birthday) planted at
Carlisle, 358

Trees, in small gardens. 100 ; large, at
Pitfirrane, Fife, 282; the lealing
of, 353, 400

Treniough, removal of Rhododendrons
from, to Kew, 4

Trillium grandinorum, 552

Tulipa Didieri alba in flower at Cork,
288

Tulip, abnormal, 559

Tulip- field, a run through a, 350

Tulips, a bunch of, .'110 ; and de-
parted Tulip growers, old varieties
of, 355 ; with numerous plant-
pests, 303

Turton, Mr. T., presentation to, 202

U

I i'kiitlakia capensis, 415

Yanda teres, 289; at Guuuersbury

Park, 25S
Vanilla plauifolia, 213
Variation, 314
Vegetable culture, 102
Vegetables, evaporated, 57 1
Veitch Memorial Fund, the, 122
Velvet Bean, the, 375
Vienna, appointment of Dr. Wettsteiu

to the Directorship of the Botauic

Gardens in the university at, 42
Vinca, a hybrid, 4 15
Vine, diseases oi' (he, 17, 98 ; mildew

aud the hot -water treatment, 531,

353, 383, 400,413
Vines, aseptic treatment of. 218

malformed, 270 : sulphuring of, 28;

Viola of the future, the, 323; I he
bedding of the future, 293 ; su tu-
rner-blooming. 372

Violet Lady Hume Campbell, origin
of, 268

Violets, propagating. 208, 293

Yiseum album. 139

W

Wallis, presentation to Mr. J., 320

Wallflower, Earliest - of - All, 189;
double-dark, 351. 3S4

Water in the garden. 34 ; hard and
soft. 385

Water-lily, a new 13S

Weather in 1898. 15 ; in Northamp-
tonshire, the. 220; cold, north of
the Tweed. 512; the severity of
the, ISO. ISO, 204

Week's steriliser. 190

Weeds, 212

Weevil, the fruit tree. 314

West Bank House, Heaton Mersey,
187

Wist Indies, Dr. Morris's work in
the. 30, 54

Whittall, Mr. Edward, 12

Willow, a mammoth, 215

\\ illow-deslroyiug fungus, a (Crypto-
myces aureus), 392

Windsor, foremen in the Koyal Gar-
dens, 205

Wines, the Welsh, 251

Witch-knots, or brooms on Scots Fir,
270

Women as gardeners, 354

Woodlands, our Crown, 13

Wood, seasoning of, by electricity,

Worm, a new white, 591
Wright, W., presentation to, 266

Wyastolle Leys, notes on. 572

Ykai: 1899, the, 8
Young, Mi. A., presentation to, 01
Yucca gloriosa in a Loudon garden,
2)6

ZygOBATEMANIA Mastel'sii, 9!)

Vlll The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 24, 1S90.

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.

Adiantum tenerum Farleyense alci-
corne, 133

Alder fungus, an (Ditopella fusispora),
393

Anemone apennina in Mr. Crowley's
garden, 407

Angracum Veitchi x , 35

Apple Allen's Everlasting, 222 ; A.
Barnaek Beauty, 237 ; A. Lady
Pilkington, 95 ; A. Smart's Prince
Arthur, 123

Arundinaria Falconeri, from the gar-
den of J. J. Rashleigh, Esq.,
Menabilly, 25 ; A. nobilis, in the
garden of J. Eashleigh, Esq.,
Menabilly, 9

Aster nanshanicus, 331

B

Bam bus A vulgaris, a flowering branch
of, 390

Begonia Oloire de Lorraine, herma-
phrodite flower of, 408 ; B. Jessie
Pope, 300 ; B. Mary Pope, 361

Broccolis Continuity and Model, 375

Burford, Dorking, views in the gar-
dens at, 275, 277

Elm fungus, an (Polyporus ulmarius),

392
Emblem of the United Horticultural

Benefit and Provident Society, 175
Engleheart, Rev. G. H., portrait of,

163
Epi-Cattleya Mrs. Jas. O'Brien x , 37
Epidendrum umbellatum, 98
Epilobium angustifolium at Holland

House, 267
Erica propendens, flowering shoot of,

235
Erythronium Jobnsoni, 253

Freelands, Perthshire, Orchids at,

67, 69, 73
Frcdirica agricola, a new worm, 391

Galanthus "Cassalia," 165
Gooseberry-rust fungus, the, 328
Grafting, methods of, 183

Lilium auratum in Scotland, remark-
able plaut of,
Lourya campauulata, 117

M

McKenzie, Mr. A., portrait of, 60
Marguerite leaf- m iner, the ( Phy tomy za

nigricoruis), 308
Marshall, W., portrait of, 127
Mushroom, "Moonlight," by a

Japanese artist, 341
Mystrosporium adustum (an Iris

disease), 412

N

Narcissus, harvest in Scilly, pre-
paring blossoms for market, 171 ;
N. King Alfred, 221 ; N. Parmenia,
283

Naudin, portrait of the late Chas. ,
200

New-Hall-Hey, view of the Cattleyas
at, 101

Normauton Park, Stamford, a dis-
play of Winter Aconites at, 217

Protector, a patented, for ripening

Pears, and other fruits, 173
Protectors, Causley's folding, 261
Pyrus coronaria, fl.-pl., 397

Rhododendr ons, in course of re-
moval from Tremough to Kew, 5

Rock garden, view of, the, at Little
Silver, South Devon, 311, 313

Rose, Sunrise, 319

SorriTT, portrait of the late H. T.,
239

Spira-a discolor (arhefolia), in Mr.
E. R. Bellyse's garden, Oakfield,
Nantwich, 21

Stinsford House, Dorchester, view of,
83

Succulents, a bed of, in the Recrea-
tion-ground, Penge, 41

Cattleya-fly, the, 23
Causley's Folding Protectors, 261
Cedar-avenue, Lebanon, at Dropmore,

13'.)
Cednu Deodara nivea as growing at

Castlewellan, 390
Channel Islands, the Gt. W. S. S.

Li/nx, arrival from, at Weymouth,

295
Cortaderia Lambleyi foliis variegatis,

335
Corylopsis pauciflora, 211 ; C. spicata,

210
Crump, Mr. W. , portrait of, 50
Cyphomandra betacea in the Tempe-
rate-house, Kew, 105
Cypripedium "Alice," 351; C.

Masterianum, 274 ; C. Stonei

platytumium, 2S1

Dendrobium Cybele Oakwood var.,

259 ; D. x Juno, 114
Diauthera illustris, 339 (= Porphyro-

coma lanceolata)
Draba olympica heterocoma, 29
Draba elegans, 3
Dracaena Doucetti foliis variegatis,

291
Dropmore, Lebanon Cedar-avenue at,

139
Dunn, portrait of the late Malcolm,

306
Duns Castle, Berwickshire, 57
Dyer, Sir W. T. Thiselton, portrait

of, 8

H

Hippeastrums, house of, at Captain

Holford's garden, Westonbirt, 299
Holland House, Kensington, a bed of

Epilobium angustifolium at, 267 ;

the rock-garden at, 269; views of

the garden at, 227, 229

I

Iris disease (Mystroporium adustum),

412
Iris stylosa flowering in winter in the

open air at Tremough, Cornv, all, 85
Isosoma orchidoarum, 23

Johannesburg, South Africa, lake in
the public park at, 321

K

Kelway, portrait of the late James,
343

Kew, removal to, of Rhododendrons
from Tremough, 5 ; views of the
temperate-house at, 195, 197, 199

L.elio-Cattleya x Ernesti Priucess

Olga, 149
Lapageria rosea, a spray of, from Sir

T. Lawrence's garden, 45

Odontoglossum Adriaise "Lady
Wigan," 258 ; O. x Cookeanum,
155 ; 0. Coradinei, West Bank
House var., 315; O. crispum
"Duke of York," 199; O. c,
flowers of, with three stamens,
413; O. "Mrs. John Leemann,"
187 ; O. e. at Freelands, 67 ; O.
Pescatorei at Freelands, 69 ; O.
Wilckeanum var. pallens, 185

Onions, a crop of autumn-sown, in
Wrest Park Gardens, 92

Orchids, view of the, at New-Hall-
Hey, 101

Passiflcira " Margaret Wilson," SO
Peach-blossom on summer shoot, 302
Pelargonium crithmifolium, 19 ; P.

Fire Dragon, 363
Peloriate flower of Dendrobitim

fimbriatum, 305
Penge, a bed of Succulents in the

Recreation-ground, 41
Phaius, a new, 115
Phahenopsis x Mrs. J. H. Veitch,

114
Pinus Montezum:e, showing male

and female flowers, pollen grains,

&c., 147 ; P. sylvestris, proliferous

buds of, 406
Potting, right and wrong methods of,

75
Primula, "Her Majesty," 205 ; P.,

Chiuese, " Lady Emily Dyke," 181 ;

P. " Swanley Giant," 203

Temperate - house, in the Royal

Gardens, Kew, views of the, 195,

197, 199
Temple Show, views taken at the,

371, 373, 379, 381
Thamnochortusinsignis, 251 ; T. spici-

gerus, 249
Topiary work at the Temple Show,

365

Vanilla planifolia, 213

Veitch, portrait of Mr. Harry J., 40

Views from Madresfield Court Gar-
dens, 51, 53

Views in the Botanical Gardens
at Glasnevin, Dublin, 243, 245

Vinca minor, a hybrid, 413

W

Windsor, the staff in Her Majesty's

gardens, 265
Worm, sketches showing the anatomy

of a new, 391

Young, Mr. A., portrait of, 61

Zygobatemania Mastersii, 99

SUPPLEMENTARY ILLUSTRATIONS.

Cattleya MossijB var., with 66 flowers, from the collection of Lily,
Duchess of Marlborough, Deepdene, June 24.

Group of Platyceriums in the Fern House, Royal Gardens, Kew,
April 15.

Gymnogramma schizophylla, var. gloriosa prolifera, June 3.

L.ELIA ANCEPS SaNDERIANA, A FINE PLANT OF, FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE

Rt. Hon. Joseph Chamberlain, Highbury, Birmingham, March 4.

Malvern House, Mapperley, view of the Palm Conservatory at,
April 1.

Oak, the Great Brynderwen, near Usk, Monmouthshire, March 18.

Paris Exhibition, Plan showing Horticultural portions of, March 11

Polysticuum angulare var. divisilobum plumosissimum, June 3.

Preparing for the Temple Show, June 3.

Selenipedium macrochilum giganteum, Abnormal Flbwer of,
June 3.

Viburnum macrocephalum, June 3.

View in the Scalp Pass, dividing the Counties of Dublin and
Wicklow, Feb. 25.

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January 7, 1S90,]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

THE

(Hardeners' <]}ltromcle

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 1899.

ROME.

/"VN the first morning after my arrival in
^-' Rome, when I looked out of the window
on the fourth storey of a tall house in the Piazza
di Spagna, I was very much surprised to see a
huge Eucalyptus tree looking in upon me, and
quite overshadowing the room, and also tower-
ing towards the sky, and far above over the
house. It happened to be one of the largest in
the place, and I had seen them in numbers all
along the road as we came in by the railway, but
I did not expect such an apparition as this in
the heart of the city. I soon found out that
Eucalypti are grown here in large numbers, and
the belief in their efficacy for good must be very
general, for you meet with them everywhere.

A few days after this I was so fortunate as to
get an introduction to Cavaliere Palice, Diret-
tore dei Pubblici Giardini di Roma, and I was
glad of it, because I wished, among other things,
to be enlightened by him about these Eucalypti
from two or three different points of view. So
far as I remember, one of the principal things
which he said to me was, that the best species
all round for common use is E. resinifera, and
that it is much to be preferred to E. Globulus ;
or, indeed, to any other. I do not remember
to have heard this before, though I know that
in point of hardiness some few are better than
the rest. E. resinifera, he says, is quite the most
valuable of them all, if you can be content
with it growing slowly, and also with it never
arriving at the height which some others can
reach. E. Globulus is far behind it in point of
trustworthiness, though it quickly makes a great
show and promises wonders. No doubt this is
the very reason why E. resinifera has much the
best character of the two for general purposes.
Slow and sure, is its motto, as it is of many
other good things. Cavaliere Palice especially
emphasised one point : a Eucalyptus tree hates
wind, and it stands frost very much better.
The reason, he said, why the large tree in the
Piazza di Spagna, to which I have referred above,
is doing so well, is merely because it is shel-
tered from the north, and no strong blasts can
affect it ; but, he added, if you are at all
interested in the question of these Eucalypti,
you should visit the Trappist Fathers at" the
Monastery of St. Paul - trois - Fontaines, and
hear all which they have to tell, and see their
enormous grove.

The Eucalyptus Grove at Tre Fontajje.
As there is no great difficulty about this expe-
dition, I availed myself of the first fine day to
take it. But I may as well say here, that these
Trappist monks have some peculiarities of their

own. They are strict vegetarians, and would not
touch meat on any account. But they differ from
other religious bodies principally in the way in
which absolute silence is enforced among them-
selves : when one monk happens to come across
another monk in the course of ordinary life he
has nothing whatever to say to him, by the rules
of his Order, except "Memento mori." I could
not but think, as I was walking towards the
Monastery, which is about a mile or amile-and-
a-quarter beyond St. Paul's Church, which
itself is some little way outside of the walls of
the city, that I must be going to a very odd
place for enlightenment about horticultural
matters, if they are likely to treat me in that
sort of way. But I soon found out on arrival
that all this is provided for, and that some two
or three of the Fathers, of whom there are
twenty-five in the place, are always told off,
whether temporarily or in perpetuity I do not
know, for communication with the outside
world, without which, of course, no business
can be carried on. One of these select few
kindly offered his services to me, and during a
rather long morning he showed me everything
there was to be seen, and told me everything I
wanted to know. I did not find that his tongue
had suffered in the least from disuse, but he
rattled on as though glad, perhaps, of the
opportunity for talking to a fellow-man.

Let me just give a few words of description of
this extraordinary place, which is taken from Mrs.
Jameson's work on Sacred Art. She wrote some
years ago, that "in all the melancholy vicinity
of Rome, there is not a more melancholy spot than
the Tre Fontane. A splendid monastery, rich with
all the offerings of Christendom, once existed there ;
the ravages of that mysterious scourge of the Cam-
pagna — the malaria —have rendered it a desert.
Three churches and some ruins still exist, and a
few pale monks wander about the dismal confines
of the hollow in which they stand. In winter, you
approach them through a quagmire ; in summer,
you dare not breathe in their pestilential vicinity,
and yet there is a sort of dead beauty about the
place — somethiug hallowed as well as sad which
seizes on the fancy."

But all this in recent years has been altered for
the better by the introduction of Eucalyptus trees
from Australia. It is a fact that the monks live
now during the greater part, if not the whole round,
of the year where once they were quite unable to
live at all ; certainly, they have had a unique ex-
perience in this matter, from which others may
profit. They cultivate only some six or seven
ipecies of Eucalyptus in all, and out of the number
my informant declared that in his opinion E.
Globulus and E. resinifera are the two best ; one is
as good as the other, he said, aud E. Globulus makes
such a fine tree — but that is, I am sure, from the
point of view of a resident in Italy. Where con-
ditions are so favourable as they are hpre to
the growth of Eucalypti, it may be difficult to
choose between these two ; but where greater
difficulties are known than is the case here, the
value of E. resinifera will very much exceed the
value of E. Globulus, which in Englaud is worth
very little iudeed. At any rate, E. resinifera is
very high up, and comes second in the affections of
the monk. He told me one thing which I had
never heard before, and which has some little
interest about it.

The origin of the marvellous growth of these
trees in and about Rome was the following. When
the (Ecumenical Council was held here in the year
1S69, some of the Australian bishops who took part
. in it saw that they could benefit Italy by sending
trees from Australia, aud they promised that, in
their return to their own laud, they would forward
a consignment of them. The bishops were as good
as their word, aud the Eucalypti arrived in due course
of time, and were well taken care of at the monastery.
Now they are grown from seed by huudreds aud

thousands, but at first some young specimens from
Australia were all they had to depend upon. The
grove of Eucalypti— or, as it might be called,
the forest— stretches far into the Campagna.
I asked my friend if he had any idea of the
extent of the area which the Fathers had under culti-
vation for this purpose, and his answer was, that
he did not know at all ; but he said "I can tell you
something — we have planted to our certaiu know-
ledge 200,000 of these trees near to and about the
monastery ; " and I should be very unwilling to
dispute the assertion. The grove seems to stretch
in and on where these huge giants are growing ;
they tower up already to the height of some 75 or
80 feet above the grouud, aud no one can tell what
they will eventually come to, or even what they
will come to in a term say of twenty or twenty-five
years. I said to my guide, " I have heard of these
trees attaining to the height of 200 or 300 feet-
will yours ever do the like?" He replied, "I
have heard of their attaining to a height of 500 or
H00 feet, but I do not think they will do that."
Nevertheless, I believe he has very great expec-
tations about their future, and there may always
be a miracle in reserve to assist them if they do not
get on well enough of themselves. The whole
place is redolent of the miraculous, accordiug to
common idea. The scene was weird and strange
in the very extreme. One felt carried out
of England, and out of Italy also, and as
though for a few hours a visit were being paid to
the southern hemisphere itself. Utter silence
seemed to reign in the place, and the very birds
themselves might have been Trappists so far as any
songs from them are concerned ; but I fear there
is a deeper reason for the intense silence than this
■ — they thiuk very little about the balance of Nature
in this part of the world, and birds of all sorts are
exterminated in a very ruthless way.

The huge trunks, smooth in some places, and
with bark hanging down in others, the sort of
sickle-shaped, glaucous foliage, the blossoms, which
are unlike any others I have seen, formed a strange
sort of surrounding with which the monks are very
congenial, but which is as uulike an English land-
scape as anything could be — gloomy, severe, unat-
tractive are the sort of adjectives I should use with
regard to it, and I should be very sorry to exchange
our delightful English woods for an Australian
grove of Eucalypti.

I wanted to know the girth of one of these extra-
ordinary trees, and the monk declared it to be,
after careful measurement, between 4 and 5 feet.
A word may perhaps be in place here about the
cultural directions, of which my companion was
full. Monks have for centuries past been famous
as gardeners, and I think my friends of the Monas-
tery of the Three Fountains bring no disgraoe to
their order.

As I have said above, hundreds aud thousands of
Eucalypti are now raised from seed. I was privi-
leged to go into a large glass building (or shabby,
tumble-down greenhouse it might be called), and
there it was pointed out to me how numbers of
young Eucalypti were coming on in a most flourish-
ing way. This was a sort of second stage of their
existence, and the rules which are laid down for
their previous history are certainly sensible enough.
According to the monks, the seed is to be sown
thinly in September or October, in boxes filled
with common soil, light, and mixed with a little
decomposed manure. It is to be very lightly
covered over with soil, and watered with great
precaution. It is to be kept just moist, and to be
deprived of light for some days till germination has
takeu place. It is to be very carefully guarded
against frost for the first winter ; in the ensuing
spring the plants are to be stationed at distances of
about 14 yard from each other, and with a southern
exposure. They are to be watered abundantly
every week during the following summer, and
specially so if the ground iu which they are planted
is not naturally humid, &e.

I think you will say that these instructions are
seusible enough, and the monks can now point to

2

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 7, 1899.

200,000 witnesses to the desirability of the prac-
tice which they enjoin. I suppose that this Trap-
pist monastery will be a kind of emporium for
Eucalypti for all Italy, and, indeed, for Europe
alio, so far as they are anywhere required. But in
some respects the monks are too sanguine to be
believed : they attribute some very efficaciovis
virtues to their Eucalyptus-oil. It is. in their
opinion, an elixir which stands quite by itself.
Their flourish of trumpets goes on in the following
strain: — " II est euiinemmeut hygieuique et febri-
fuge ; u'est aussi uu antiseptique remarquable, un
vulueraire, un cicatriciel, tres energique un disin-
fectant prefere par beaucoup de praticiens a l'acide
phenique dont il n'a pas l'acrete, ni l'odeur re-
poussante — il est utilemeut employe dans les
affections aigues et cbroniques du larynx et des
l>ronches : la tnberoulose pulmonaire, les Sevres de
toutes nature ; les expectorations fetides, &c." But
all this must be taken for what it is worth, and
"credat Judseus" expresses the sort of feeling
which is entertained by many who are able to judge.

They are on much more solid ground when they
descant on the efficacy of their trees for draining
purposes, aud their self-glorification can be contra-
dicted by no one when they say, '•Nous avons
transforme ce desert malsain en une oasis, et depuis
longtemps nous y habitons toute l'annee."

A little notfiee hangs up proudly in their bureau,
or whatever it may be called, and which runs to
this effect : " II a iti decerne au Frere Gildas pour
Introduction de l'Eucalyptus a Rome une meaaille
de seconde classe dans la seance publique du 7 Mai,
1875. Le President Drouyn de Lhuys, Societe
d'Acclimatation." //. Ewbdnk (Rev.), Some, Christ-
mas Eve, 1S98.

(/', ■■■• continued.)

NOVELTIES OF 1898.

\ N annual review of the novelties and re-
-^- introductions of plants of the past year
is always interesting. For some years past the
chief novelties in flowering and ornamental
greenhouse and stove-plants have been fur-
nished by the hybridist at home, and the plant-
collector who, in his search for Orchids often
wandered in lands replete witli interesting new
plants, but very rarely sent one home unless it
were an Orchid. In the immediate past, how-
ever, our suggestions seem to have been acted
on, especially by Messrs. F. Sander & Co.,
with the result that at the last great Quin-
quennial show at Ghent, and on other occasions
in Great Britain, they have made displays of
, new stove and greenhouse-plants, and especially
of Palms, imported by them, which have been
very gratifying to the plantsman. Some of these
new plants have had to be provisionally named,
and the names under which they are now known
may not withstand the test of comparison with
known species in herbaria, but that is of little
consequence to the gardener, for they are new
to gardens.

The ( IRCHIDS.

The hybrid < brehids still continue to mi ire
than divide the interest of the Orchid specialist
with the .fine varieties of previously - known
imported species. But as with dross, so with
flowers, fickle fashion holds unreasoning sway.
Hence, the great tribe of Cypripediums, which,
until quite recently absorbed the greatest
interest, have given place to the showy and
useful hybrid Cattleyas, Lselias, and Lselio-
i Jattleyas, until some new combination can lie
got to give them a fresh interest.

In the matter of tine varieties of imported
Species, they more than hold their own in point
of value, as witness the peculiar form of Cattleya
labiata for which Messrs. Protheroe & Morris 1 iy
fair competition succeeded in getting 130 guis.
about a month ago ; and the evidence that when

any portion of a pedigree plant is on sale, its
value is found to have risen rather than fallen.
In every branch of Orchid-culture we still look
to the fine collection of Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., of Burford. under the skilful management
of Mr. W. H. White, as the keystone of the
< hehid interests in Europe.

Last year, if we may say so, the principal
novelty in Sir Trevor Lawrence's collection was
the gigantic Grammatophyllum speciosum, well
known to science ; and this year the equally
noble, and still more beautiful, Eulophiella
Peetersiana, producing its gorgeous spike of
rose-purple dowers at Burford for the first time,
is a parallel case. Chief among the many fine
things among those flowered at Burford during
1898 must be noted the remarkable Stanhopea
Rodigasiana, which not only displayed a very
singular departure from the general run of the
genus, but demonstrated that a Stanhopea
could still command a First-class Certificate ;
the blood-red Dendrobium sanguineum, which
had been less perfectly flowered the previous
year ; the pretty and distinct natural hybrids
Miltonia x Binoti and M. x leucoglossa ; and
among the Burford-raised hybrids, Cypripe-
dium x Olenus, Burford variety, the largest
and handsomest of the C. bellatulum crosses ;
C. x argo-Morganiae, Dendrobium x formoso-
Lowi ; and two bright additions to the Burford
hybrid Calanthes viz., C. x labrosior and C. x
■revertens ; while among the many botanical
novelties the singular Cirrhopetalum appendicu-
latum is specially interesting as giving the first
instanceof its section to flower under cultivation ;
also the singular Masdevallia ventricularia, and
other new species.

Baron Sir H. Schroder, who still maintains
his great interest not only in his own magnificent
collection, but in all that pertains to Orchids
and Orchid growing, has flowered many superb
things, especially among the < Montoglossunis,
and among those which have received Certifi-
cates at the Royal Horticultural Society are
Odontoglossum crispum Baroness Schroder,
which is one of the finest of crimson-blotched
varieties ; < >. e. Princess Christian, a noble
flower; < ). x elegantius Baroness Schroder, a
bright and elegant form of the pretty O.
Peseatorei,- natural hybrid : and the new
Sobralia Sanderiana, imported by Messrs. F.
Sander cV" Co.

Elijah Ashwokth, Esq., of Haretield Hall,
Wilmslow, Cheshire (gr., Mr. Holbrook), from
his noted collection, has received awards for
Cypripedinm insigne, Haretield Hall variety, a
veritable giant, and a handsome one to boot.
As a standard variety, its distinctness will cause
it. to rank with C. i. Sandene, and always main-
tain good actual value. Cattleya Mendeli,
Beatrice Ashworth, a delicately-tinted white
variety ; C. Schroderse, Haretield Hall variety ;
the first true albino of D. nobile Ashworthia-
num ; and a singular rose-tinted hybrid Odonto-
glossum near to 0. aspersum in O. hybridum
Ashworthianum.

Norman C. CpOKSpN, Esq., Oakvvood, Wylam.
Northumberland, the famous amateur hybridist
(gr. , Mr. Win, Murray), has from his collec-
tion raised and exhibited several good things
■ as well as by home-raised seedlings, proving
the record of natural hybrids, such as
Cattleya x Hardyana, &c. Formerly, we
recorded the fact that Mr. Cookson had suc-
ceeded in raising true, and also by that means
succeeded in improving on, Cypripedinm Law-
ranceanum Hyeanum by seeds obtained by
fertilising the plant with its own pollen. The
first eight or ten plants to flower were all true

in the suppression of colour, and better than
the original in size. Last year one flowered out
of the same batch, which proved to be only a
poor form of the common type of C. Lawrence-
anum. This shows that the variation may be
perpetuated by true seeds, though on securing
plants the raiser must not conclude that they
are true until he has seen the flowers. Of Mr.
Cookson's best things shown last year are
Calanthe x splendens, brilliant in colour ;
Phaio-Calanthe x grandis, the showiest Phaio-
Calanthe yet raised, and some very handsome
varieties of his Phaius x Norman, the showiest
and freest to flower of all the hybrid Phaius,
and on that account quite a florists' flower.

H. T. Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill
(gr., Mr. Thurgood), who cultivates principally
Odontoglossums, Cattleyas, Loelias, &c'., and' is
not content unless he secures the best, has
certainly succeeded in his object in Odonto-
glossum x Wilckeanum Pittise, and O. x W.
Pitt's variety, the two best which have yet
appeared, and worthy companions to each other.
Both secured First-class Certificates, and the
latter was illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle,
May 7, p. 274. Other very tine varieties shown
by Mr. Pitt are < klontoglossum grande Pittia-
num, a splendid form with flowers wholly of two
shades of yellow ; and O. X excellens, Rosslyn
variety, a perfectly-formed flower.

Other noteworthy productions of amateurs
during 1898 are Cattleya Triana?i, Broome's
var., of Joseph Broome, Esq. , of Llandudno (gr. ,
Mr. Axtell); C. T. Chardwar var., of G. F.
Moore, Esq. ; and the finely-formed white C. T.
albida of G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., Rawten-
stall (gr., Mr. Shill), who also flowered the
pretty ruby -crimson- spotted Odontoglossum
crispum Lehmanni, Schofield's variety ; Cattleya
Mendeli Amelia, of W. P. Burkinshaw, Esq. ;
Miltonia x Bleuana rosea gigantea, of Mr.
Jules Hye-Leysen, of Ghent, which, with the
others of his select group shown at the last
Temple Show, vanished in the most unaccount-
able manner ; Laslia anceps Amesiana, Craw-
shay's variety, of De B. Crawshay, Esq., a
specialist in L. anceps and Odontoglossums ;
Cattleya x Sedeni and Ladio-Cattleya x Fasci-
nator, of C. L. N. Ingram, Esq. (gr., Mr. T. W.
Bond) ; the pretty lavender-tinted Cattleya x
Bowringiana Lady Wigan, the pale lavender-
tinted Lselia Perrini leucophcea, and the showy
La3lio-Cattleya x Joyce Wigan, of Sir Frederick
Wigan, Bart, (gr., Mr. W. H. Young) ; Lselio-
Cattleya x Schilleriana, Cambridge Lodge variety,
Lselia purpurata Ernesti, and Cypripedinm x
Wottoni, of R. I. Measures, Esq. (gr., Mr. H. J
Chapman) ; Odontoglossum Hunnewellianum
majus of Henry Greenwood, Esq. ; O. Pesca-
torei Duchess of Westminster, from the Duke
of Westminster ; Sophro - Cattleya x Geo.
Hardy, from Fred. Hardy, Esq. (gr. , Mr. T.
Stafford) ; Cattleya intermedia, Fowler's variety,
of J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (gr., Mr. Davis) ;
and Lselia pumila Colmani, of Jeremiah Colman,
Esq. (gr.,Mr. King).

(To hv continued,)

New or Noteworthy Plants.

ARUNDINARIA NOBILIS.*

Mr. Rashleiuh, of Meuabilly, obligingly for-
wards us a photograph of the tine Bamboo which
he grows in his Cornish garden under this name.
It forms clumps '23 feet in height, and is one of the
most striking of the hardy Bamboos. Its origin

Amndinaria nobilis, Freeman-Mitford, Bamboo Garden
(1896), i'. 17;>.

January 7, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

and specific name are alike doubtful. Mr. Rash-
leigh is of opinion that it may have come from
China, and Mr. Freeman-Mitford, in his charming
Bamhoo Garden, is of the same opinion. Being
unable to identify it with any of the Indian species,
Mr. Mitford has described it in the work cited as
A. nobilis, and the illustration (fig. 4, p. 9) will show
that the name has been well chosen. It is met with
in cultivation under the names Arundinaria falcata,
Thamuocalamus Falconeri, and Arundinaria khasi-
ana, but it differs from each and all by characters
which are given in the work cited. It is more
hardy than either A. falcata or Thamnocalamus
Falconeri, the only other two Bamboos with striated
leaves which are grown in our gardens. In ordi-
nary winters the culms do not die, though the leaves
may be shed. In severe wiuters the culms may be
killed to the ground, but the roots are uninjured.
"In the Midlands, " says Mr. Mitford, " we may
regard Arundinaria nobilis as a deciduous Bamboo,
and to that extent hardy. Its gigantic stature,
beauty of colouring, and elegance of form, give it an
ornamental value, as to which there cannot be two
opinions."

the veining, and growing lighter towards the tip.
The lower sepals are greenish-white with bright-
green lines, a rosy tinge suffusing the back surface.
The petals are slightly deilexed (much more hori-
zoutally extended than in C. Charlcsworthi), dis-
tinctly clliate on the upper, and less so on the
lower margin, neither bearing any traces of the
wart-like formations seen in 0. barbatum. Their
colour is whitish, veined and tinged with dull rose.
The lip is of a greenish-white with darker veining,
and a brownish-purple tinge on the face ; staminode
pale lilac, with greenish-yellow keel in the centre.
Although it is not a startling novelty, yet its
brightness of colour will make it always worth its
place, in the same manner as a similar colour has
constituted C. cenanthum a general favourite.
James O'Brien.

DRABA ELEGANS.

Trirs rare, pretty-looking Draba was found by Mr.
Siehe, of Mersina, growing on rocks of the Cilician
Taurus, 1000 metres above sea level. Our illustration
(fig. 1 ) shows the plant in its natural position, and of

the East which has as yet borne fruit, is one of a
row of the same species planted along the East
river-drive, all apparently of the same age, viz.,
17 years, and averaging about 55 feet in height.

In close proximity to these is a handsome speci-
men of a Talipot Palm in flower, and which has
been found to be of the following dimensions : —
Height of trunk to inflorescence, 73 feet ; height
from this to top of inflorescence, 30 feet— total
height, 103 feet ; girth of trunk at base, 13 feet.
The inflorescence, which tapers to the top, consists
of fifty main branches, one of which has been found
to measure 15 feet in length, [having twenty-six
"brauchlets," averaging 2 feet in length. The
branch measured required three strong coolies to
carry it ; thus, making allowance for smaller
branches at top, quite 100 coolies would be required
to carry the whole inflorescence. The Talipot
"flower" collectively is therefore by far the
largest in the vegetable kingdom. The individual
flowers are inconspicuous, greenish-white, un-
pleasantly scented, and are blown about by the
wind, giving a snowy appearance to the ground
underneath. Estimating by the number counted

Fig. 1. — iiraba blegans : colour of tuk flowers sulphur-yellow.

Cypripedium (Paphiopedium) Barbato-Charles-
worthi, new gard. Jiyb. (Barbatum Warner-

IANUM <j>, CHARLESWORTHI $ ).

This, the first C. Charlcsworthi cross which I
have seen, has been forwarded by Mr. <I. YY,
Cummins, gr. to W. H. Lumsden, Esq., Balmedie,
Aberdeen, N.B., in whose gardens a small batch of
this cross has been raised from seeds. It is a very
pretty flower, approaching C. Charlesworthi in
general appearance, though on examination its
characteristics are found to be quite intermediate
between those of the two parents.

The leaves (which I have not seen) are said to
correspond with those of C. Charlesworthi, but
with the variegation of C. barbatum. The scape is
purple aud downy, bract green, spotted with purple,
and about half as ong as the ovary.

The flower has the upper sepal flatly displayed,
the margin being slightly incurved. The lower half
is of a bright rosy-purple colour, with indistinct
green lines radiating from the base ; the upper
half beiug white with the rose-purple colour of the
base continued through it in reticulation following

iis natural size. The flowers are clear sulphur
yellow colour, and they appear at the beginning of
April. It greatly resembles Draba olympiea
(brunuefolia). IT. Hammer.

Colonial Notes.

• —

CEYLON.
SoME of your readers may be interested to know
that the following objects of interest may now be
seen in convenient parts of these gardens, viz., a
Victoria regia, the Giant Water-Lily, in bloom
in the lake. A Cannon-ball fruit-tree, a member
of the "monkey-pot" order (Lecythidacea?), and
native of tropical America, bearing three globular
fruits suspended by straggling flowering branches
issuing from the trunk at a height of 12 ft. from the
ground. The fruit, the pulp of which is relished
by the natives where it grows, is appropriately
named, being about the size of a man's head, the
largest at present measuring 11 iuohes in circum-
ference, aud is still growing. The tree itself,
introduced iu 1881) and probably the only one in

on one spike, the whole inflorescence contains over
60,000,000 flowers. H. F. Macmillan, Curator,
H, B. Gardens, Peradeniya.

[A figure of a Talipot Palm in flower was given
in our columns March 22, 1873, p. 401, the photo-
graph having been sent us by our friend the late
Dr. Trimen. The Cannon-ball-tree was also figured
Augusts, 1S82, p. 177. Ed.]

Cultural Memoranda.

SOLANUM CAPSICASTEUM.
If this plant be well grown and an abundant crop
of highly-coloured berries obtained, it remains un-
surpassed iu its effectiveness as a decorative plant
during the Christmas season. In the shortest days
of winter these bright berry-bearing plants are
especially appreciated in the dwelling-house, where
they introduce a desirable change from the type of
plants used for furnishing the vases during other
portions of the year. There could hardly be a class
of winter decorative plants that could withstand
the close, dry atmosphere of living rooms so satis-

THE GABDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

[January 7, 1S99.

factorily as this Solarium ; moreover, it is easy of
propagation and cultivation. At the present time
I have a batch of plants in 6 and 7-inch pots, and
they individually carry as many as two hundred
berries of a brilliant scarlet colour. These plants
are about three years old, aud we find them of
inestimable value for furnishing tables and for the
decoration of ball-rooms at the Christmas season.
Fortunately, the plants lose nothing ineffectiveness
when seen under artificial light. The system of
culture we practise iu the case of Solanum Capsieas-
trurn is as follows : — The seed, so soon as it is ripe,
is sown iu a pau containing a sifted compost of
loam and leaf-soil in equal parts, and silver-sand.
It is placed in a temperature of about 65°; if
plunged iu a propagating-bed, the seeds will
germinate more quickly. When the young plants
are large enough, remove them singly into 2J-inch
pots, and place them on a shelf near the glass in a
rather warm and genial atmosphere. Pinch the
shoots and repot the plauts as frequently as is
necessary, always exposing them to the greatest
amount of light possible, to induce a stocky, robust
habit. An occasional application of clear liquid-
manure should be afforded as the plants gain
strength, the aim being to obtaiu a many-brauched,
healthy plant in as short a time as possible, so that
by the month of June they may be planted out in
an open sunny border. Due attention to affordiug
necessary root waterings, aud to keeping the sur-
face of the soil free from weeds, will be all that is
needed until the latter part of the month of Septem-
ber, when the plauts should be lifted and potted
up into pots of suitable sizes. A shady spot
out-of-doors should then be chosen for the
plauts, and frequent overhead syringings will be
necessary for a few days. Iu a week remove the
plauts to a light, airy house, where the berries will
soon become coloured. At the time of housing the
plants, it is good practice to shorten the growths
beyond the topmost berry iu order to concentrate
the whole energies of the plant into the swelling
berries. For early fruiting we find the older plants
more valuable, as the wood of these naturally
becomes matured earlier than the young plants.
The Solanum Capsicastrum is subject to attacks of
aphis, red-spider, aud thrips ; these can easily be
kept in check by periodical syringings with an
insecticide, or by occasional fumigation.

CVPERUS NATALENSIS.

For use in dwelling-rooms, and for general
decorative purposes, this Cyporus is invaluable,
and it may be propagated aud cultivated with com-
parative ease. I know of no plaut better suited
for furnishing small vases, or for use as a "dot "
plaut upon the dinner-table. For the latter pur-
pose we turn the plants out of the pots (generally
small OO's), aud neatly cover the ball of soil with
living moss, procured from the woods. No matter
what the design, these little plants, with their
bright green foliage, always present a pleasiug
appearance upon the table.

The best method of propagation is to sow seeds
at intervals throughout the year. In our case we
sow a pinch of seed once a month in a 5-inch pot,
aud if the seed has been properly ripened before
gathering, germination will take place very quickly
and freely. When the young plants are about an
inch high, they are potted-up into 2J-inch or
3-inch pots, using a compost of equal parts loam
and leaf-soil, with an admixture of silver-sand.
Small clumps of the seedlings are lifted from the
seed-pot with a pointed stick or label, and inserted
iu the "centre of the small pots, pressing them
fairly firmly with the fingers. No more shifting
will be required, for the foliage presents a much
more elegant appearance when grown in this way
thau if planted sparsely, aud given more liberal
cultivation. Half-a-dozen plants or so are annually
potted on into 6-inch pots, aud if due attention be
giveu them during the autumn by placing them in
a sunny and airy position, they will furuish au
abundance of good seed. Copious supplies of water to
the small plauts at all times, when they have become

established, is essential. The cultivator can well
afford to sacrifice those plants that have done duty
several times and have become shabby, as others
may be raised with so little trouble. H. T. M.,
Stondeigh.

THE HARDY HEATHS.

(Continued from vol. xxiv., j>. 454.)
E. multiflora. — Among hardy Heaths the nearest
ally of this species is our British E. vagans. It is,
indeed, sent out by some nurserymen under that
name. It differs, however, in its denser, much
more compact habit, and in its shorter flower-
spikes ; neither is it a native of Britain. It is
widely spread over South Europe, extending along
the Mediterranean region from Spain and France to
Greece. It grows from 12 inches to 18 inches high,
forming close, rounded tufts. The shape and
arrangement of the leaves are the same as in E.
vagans. The flowers are also of the same pinkish
hue, but the racemes are only 1 inch to 2 inches
long — about one-third the length of those of E.
vagans. With us E. multiflora flowers from
August to October.

E. scoparia. — Although one of the species from
the Mediterranean region (the western part), this
Heath is quite hardy near London. Winters like
that of 1894-95 cause the upper and more exposed
stems to split, but the main body of the plant it not
seriously injured. At Kew it has stood for many
years in a place not particularly sheltered, and is
now 6 feet to 9 feet high. It grows erect, and is of
a rather uneven, straggling, but still picturesque
habit. The leaves are deep-green, and arranged in
threes, the whorls being further apart than in most
Heaths. The wood is glabrous, and the small,
greenish-white, crowded flowers are borne in the
leaf-axils, on several inches of the terminal portions
of the long slender twigs. Compared with the
other tall South European Heaths, it differs from
E. arborea and E. lusitauica in its smooth stems,
and from E. australis and E. stricta in its axillary
flowers. It blossoms in June.

E. stricta. — Like the species just described, this
ranks as one of the hardest of South European
Heaths. The winter of 1894-95 did not affect it
even so much as E. scoparia. I do not know the
largest size to which it grows ; the tallest plants I
have seen are about 5 feet high. It is of sturdy
habit, aud its leaves (which are green, not glaucous
beneath, as in so many Heaths) vary in the number
at each whorl from four to six. The flowers are
borne in terminal clusters, which on the majority
of the shoots are umbels, but on the stronger ones
may be termed short racemes. The flower is a
quarter-of-au-inch long, pale purple, and cylindrical,
being almost as wide near the mouth as at the base.
It commences to flower in June and July, and
blossoms may be gathered as late as November.

E. Tetralix (Cross-leaved Heath). — Of the true
Heaths (that is, not including Calluna), this is pro-
bably the commonest iu Britain, being widely
spread over the three kingdoms. Four leaves occur
at each node, and they are arranged cross-wise.
The plant grows 12 to 18 inches high, and is downy
in almost all its parts, especially the young shoots,
leaves, and sepals. The flowers are in terminal
umbels, the corolla a quarter-of-au-inch long, very
much contracted at the mouth, and bright rose. It
blossoms in late summer and autumn. It is a
variable plant, especially in the degree and char-
acter of its pubescence, which in some iustauces
becomes almost bristly hairs. Two varieties are
cultivated — alba, with white flowers ; aud rubra,
in which they are more distinctly red than iu the
type.

E. vagans (Cornish Heath).— Probably the most
vigorous of the dwarf Heaths, this is also one of the
most attractive hardy shrubs flowering in late
summer and autumn. It is a native of Cornwall,
and is also found ou the coast of Waterford iu
Ireland. It is a glabrous shrub, 1 foot to 2 feet

high, its lower branches spreading and prostrate.
Under cultivation, where the soil is too moist and
rich, it is apt to become sprawling and ungainly
after a few years. The flowers are borne, two or
three together, in the leaf-axils towards the top of
the branch, on very slender stalks of unusual
length. They are cup-shaped, almost globular, and
pinkish-purple, with the dark purple anthers well
protruded. The whole raceme is 4 inches to 6 inches
long. The leaves are four, sometimes five, together
iu the whorl, and are a quarter of an inch to half
an iuch long. The following varieties, whose names
sufficiently denote their distinctive characters, are
in cultivation : Var. alba, var. rubra, and var.
grandiflora.

E. Watsonix. — This is most probably a natural
hybrid between E. ciliaris and E. Tetralix, and was
first found on a heath near Truro by Mr. H. C.
Watson, after whom it was named by Bentham.
It has an inflorescence intermediate between the
capitate one of E. Tetralix and the elongated
raceme of E. ciliaris. The leaves are ciliate, but
narrower and more revolute at [the margin than in
E. ciliaris. The flowers are rosy-crimson. W. J.
Bran, Arboretum, Kew.

REMOVAL OF RHODODENDRONS
FROM THE GARDENS OF D. HENRY
SHILSON, ESQ., TREMOUGH, FOR
KEW.

An interesting event recently took place at
Tremough, Penryn, Cornwall, in the removal to
the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, of a collection of
Himalayan Rhododendrons, presented to the Gar-
dens by D. Henry Shilson, Esq., the owner of
Tremough.

There has lately been added a wing to the
Temperate-house at Kew, this, we understand, is
to be largely occupied by Rhododendrons, aud the
plants removed from Tremough will be plauted
therein. They comprise such species as Falconeri,
Thompsoni, barbatum, niveum, Aucklandi, cili-
atum, and arboreum, in several varieties, including
that triumph of hybridisation, to which tho name
of Shilsoni has been appropriately given. This
gem was raised by the late Mr. Wm. Shilson, by
crossing R. Thompsoni with barbatum. Kew
already possessed a plant of this much-coveted
variety, but it is a pigmy compared with the one
now sent, for so large was this plant that it was
found necessary to allot it a separate railway truck
to itself, and, to ensure its safe passage under the
arches, was packed lying on its side. Several of
the plants were noble looking specimens, ranging
from 12 to 15 feet high, and of nearly two tons in
weight.

Tremough ranks as the Rhododendron Garden of
Cornwall, and here, if anywhere, the cultivation
of these beautiful plants has reached the acme of
perfection — climate, soil, and situation suiting them
admirably (see fig. 2, p. 5).

The late Mr. Shilson was one of the first in this
country to take up tho cultivation of these noble
plants, and at Tremough there may be seen some
of the most wonderful Himalayan Rhododendrons
in the country.

Mr. Watson, of Kew, superintended their packing
and removal, and his name was a sufficient guarantee
that they would arrive safely at their destination.
R. GUI, Tremough.

THE OLEANDER.

1st another place the magnificent plants of
Nerium Oleander existing at the Luxembourg
Palace in Paris are alluded to. A few memo-
randa as to the cultivation of the plant may not
be amiss, so little success, attending the amateur
gardener in this direction.

The flowers are produced on the wood of the
previous year, if it be well matured, and they
appear ou such shoots for two successive years.
Hence a plant of Oleander must not be cut down,

January 7, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

or even much pruned, beyond thiouing out some of
the weak or redundant Bhoots. Its habit is to
produce flowers at the upper part of the head, and
any endeavour by pruning to get flowers low down
ends in failure, and a mass of flowerless shoots near
the ground-level. It is due to this habit of
flowering at the top that large examples, when ob-
served in full bloom, resemble miniature flower-
beds. The plant, grows well under semi-aquatic
conditions, as does the Willow, which in its habit
of growth it greatly resembles. It requires a
stiffish loamy soil, well enriched with manure, and
above all, perfect drainage, for, notwithstanding
that the large quantities of moisture demanded in
the growing season, it dislikes water stagnant iu

American Notes.

CLEMATIS PANICULATA.

This fine climber promises to become one of the
most popular climbing flowering-plant in America.
Last spring the very large supply was not equal to
the demand, and the stock was exhausted before the
planting season was over. It seems to be an ideal
climber for covering walls, piazzas, columns, or any
object in a sunny position. It is unique when
grown as a large single plant, with a light frame to
scramble over, or, when tied to several centrally-
placed stakes, which will allow the laterals to droop
around, and which, when covered with their wealth

to do equally "well'next season. Its growth during
early summer is rapid, requiring its young shoots
to be frequently tied-in, so as to cover all the space
desired. Like all other Clematis, we find a good
mulch of rotten manure is very beneficial to it if
applied in the fall. This maybe allowed to remain
during summer, as it will then help to keep I he
soil cool and moist during hot weather. The plant
here is entirely free from insect pests and .li
and although as hardy as an Oak-tree, we do not
tli ink it will give satisfaction if planted in shade.
The climber on the right hand and on the walla
above it in tbe photograph is Ampelopsis Veitchi,
and we take great pride iu pointing to the fact that
we were the first to offer this plant in America.
It has been planted very extensively all over this
country, and is still growing in popularity. John

£M

% ' ^. -j>i

(JwSE^ '••Ms^s^g

IKMHl

Fig. 2. — removal of specimen rhododendrons from the gardens of d.

l'enkyn, cornwall, to the royal gardens, kew.

(Photographed by Mr. Arthur II Hiiss,)

HENRY SHTLSON, ESQ., TREMOl'GH,
(SEE P. 4.)

the soil. Repotting or tubbing should not occur
oftener than once in four or five years, although
top-dressing with rich compost may be performed
annually. The best month to repot, &c., is May,
and in the ease of plauts that have reached a good
size, large shifts should not be afforded, a 2-inch
space all round the ball being sufficient — that is,
after looseuing the outer roots and soil.

The plant should remain out-of-doors from the
end of the month mentioned till the first week in
October, and iu the sunniest spot at command. In
the latter month, after taking away any of the top-
dressing of manure that may have been afforded,
and tickling the surface with a pointed stick to
make it permeable to water and air, for the plant
must have water afforded three or four times during
the winter. Any semi-dark, dry, frost-proof place,
where the temperature does not fall below 40°, will
suit the plants from October till March.

of white, sweet-scented flowers, present a picture of
great beauty. Its perfume is like that of the
Daphne, penetrating and sweet. It commences to
bloom here in the latter part of August, and con-
tinues for a period of six weeks. It is a strong
grower, and makes shoots from 18 to 20 feet in
length in a season. A writer recently said in the
Gardeners' Chronicle that, owing to the fact of its
not ripening its wood, the plant does not do so
well in England (see vol. xxiv., p. 268). We do
not think this is the cause, and treat the plants
ourselves as perennials, cutting them down each
winter.

We enclose a photograph of a specimen planted
three years ago iu good ricli soil in the kitchen-
piazza of our residence. This plant we cut down
to within 6 or 8 inches of the ground each winter.
We have examined the ripe wood this morning,
December 5, 189S, and find no canes ripe over 4 and
5 feet of their growth, although they grew to
lengths of 16 to IS feet, and we expect this plant

Charlton ife Sons, Rochester, X.Y. U.S.A. [The
photograph mentioned is not suitable for repro
auction, Ed.]

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederii k Wig w,
Bart., Clare Lawn. East Sheen.
Description of Bouses. — In order to cultivate a
fairly representative collection, three houses at least
are necessary, and it will be an advantage if these
can be sub-divided. In that case the requisite
shading, airing, and damping of the different
species, may be performed with greater benefit to
the plauts. One of the houses may be called the
" East Indian " or " tropical " stove, audthis will be
devoted to plants from lowelevatious in the tropics
of both hemispheres, though mainly to those from
the eastern hemisphere. A division is generally

THE GABDENEBS' CHBONICLE.

[January 7, 1809.

necessary, because the genera are so diverse as
Dendrobium andCypripedium — the former requiring
strong light aud the latter comparative shade. The
second is known as the " Cattleya " house ;
but there are many other genera that may be
grown in it, including most plants that are
indigenous to the lower mountainous regions of the
tropics. Sub-division is not absolutely essential in
this case, but is an aid to the better cultivation of
the so-called Mexican Ladias, which in many localities
can be grown without any artificial shading. The
third house will be the cool-house, for the cultivation
of the various genera and species found that grow in
cool temperatures in the Orchid world, latitude and
altitude both bearing considerably upon the con-
ditions they require. ' Sub-division of this house is
an absolute necessity, not so much from the point
of view of temperature as for those of shading and
damping. It is a much debated question whether
frhis house should be built against a wall facing
north or in the open. No doubt the former has its
advantages during the summer-time, but I think
these are discounted by certain disadvantages
during the winter, and I am inclined to favour a
more open position, as ordinary shading is far
easier to remove than brick walls.

Temperatures will be more or less of an artificial
nature for some time to come, but the more we can
can dispense with artificial heat the better. The
hot-water pipes in any house should be more than
sufficient to maiutain the requisite temperature
without heating them (the pipes) to a great extent.
The sides, ends, and roofs of the houses may be
covered at night with some suitable material,
which will lessen the amount of fire-heat required.
The lath-roller blinds, now so commonly used, are
excellent for keeping frost off the roof, and can be
pulled up in the morning without tearing, as canvas
blinds frequently do when used for the purpose. The
temperatures should be as follow* : East Indian-
house, 70° by day, receding during the night to 65° ;
Cattleya-house, by day 65°, by night 60° ; and the
Mexican division, being at the cooler end, will be a
degree or two lower at night. The warmer division
of the cool-house should be 58° by day and 53° at
night, and the cooler end 50° by day and 45 at
night. The day temperatures will vary consider-
ably, according to the conditions outside ; but the
above figures denote the degree of warmth to be
maintained by artificial means. In the event of
very severe weather, the temperatures may be
allowed to drop a few degrees lower than those
given, aud will be less hurtful than the extra fire-
heat that would otherwise be required. The
thermometer inside may register 1° less for every
fall of 8° outside, or vice versa.

Ventilation. — The East Indiau and Cattleya
divisions should be given no air through the top
ventilators during the three winter months, but the
bottom ventilators may be used on all occasions
when there is no frost near them, aud in the
Cattleya-house they may be opeued very slightly at
night when the temperature is above freeziug point.
On mild, open days the cool-houses will require the
use of the top ventilators as well as those in the
brickwork of the house ; but where they are
situated on both sides of the house, those on the
leeward side only should be employed. Until a
week before Christmas the top ventilators of our
Odontoglossum-house were open at night about
3 inches the full length of the house.

Watering and Damping. — In the cultivation of
Orchids, w'ith few exceptions, it is safer to let the
potting material remain dry for a few days than to
give water to the plant before it actually needs it.
There may generally be found, however, some
indication that a plant is in need of water, such as
a tendency in the bulbs to shrivel, or a limpness iu
the leaves of species having no pseudo-bulbs or
stems. To prevent these conditions developing to
an injuriousextent, frequent aud careful examination
is necessary.

Moisture iu the air is very necessary to the
plants, but a saturated atmosphere, in conjunction
with a low temperature, is as unsatisfactory as an
exceedingly high temperature without moisture.

will now be necessary to have all of these trees and
shrubs carefully staked without loss of time, in
order to prevent wind-waving. The stakes, both
long and short, should be driven into the ground
firmly in a slightly slanting position, using plenty
of bast round and between stake and stem, and not
binding too tightly. Do not allow the base of the
stems to be buried with soil for any length of time,
but make the ground around either level or sloping
away from the stem — excepting in very light or
shallow soil, when the ground may slope towards
the stem slightly.

Keeping. — All tree leaves that are likely to be
blowu about should be raked aud swept up, either
burying them in the shrubberies or taking them to
the leaf -heap to decay and to be returned to the soil
as leaf -mould. Let the land be forked over lightly
between young shrubs, burying weeds, &c, but
not digging so deeply as to injure the roots. The
digging will tend to aerate the soil and make it
permeable to water. Where large roots and suckers
from the same have come through the surface of the
lawn, the turf should be lifted and the suckers dug
up; and in the case of roots, soil must be added so as
to cover them and prevent damage to the mowing-
machine.

The Flower - beds. — All vacant flower-beds may
now be dug, leaving the surface rough so as to allow
of the frost penetrating and pulverising it, leaving
what soil or manure is to be added till the second
diggiug a few weeks hence. All large beds used
for sub-tropical plants such as Cannas, Ricinus, &c,
should be trenched eighteen inches deep, placing a
good spit of farmyard manure in the bottom of
each trench.

Kniphofias, commonly known as Tritomas, should
have a small stake driven down towards the centre
of each plant, aud the foliage twisted round the
same and secured with bast, then coal ashes should
be placed round the crowns as a safeguard against
frost.

Ha* if -hardy Plant*.' — Violas, Calceolarias, Ga-
zanias, and other half-hardy plants standing in
frames, should have abundance of air during mild
days iu order to enable the plants to withstand
confinement and lack of light during periods of
frosty weather that may occur.

Flower-sticks. — This seems a small matter, but it
is one that should have attention at this seasou,
when, owing to bad weather, the men cannot work
outside. Privet aud young Hazel shoots make good
neat flower-sticks, and these should be secured, and
after sizing them, be tied in bundles tightly, and
placed in a dry place. Stakes of all kinds may be
made or repointed, also layeriug-pegs made and put
away iu readiness for use. Every day will now
add to the cares of the gardener, and nothing
should be left over that can now be done tdl a
more busy time arrives.

Bulbs. — Any of these which are now pushing
through the soil, such as Narcissus, Tulips, < 'rocus,
and Spanish Iris should have a slight sprinkling of
soot, using that which has been stored for some
time. This will prevent worms drawing the leaves
into the ground, and afford a slight cheek to the
ravages of mice. Examine the beds daily, and if
thei'e are any signs of mice having got at the bulbs,
Bet traps forthwith. The "figure 4" trap baited
with cheese is one of the best.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester,

Planting. — By this date, with the mild weather
that we have been avoured with, most of the plant-
ing of trees aud shrubs will have been completed. It

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener t" the Right Hon. W. H. Lose,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Pot Vines. — Where the forcing of these com-
menced some weeks since, the temperatures must
not be unduly increased while the days are so short,
but rather let a genial condition be maintained by
the aid of moderate firing and damping of the border
morning aud afternoon, and when there is sunshine
light syringing is beneficial once during the morning.
If the pots are stood over or near the hot-water
pipes, a careful study must be made daily of the
need for watering, or much mischief may result
from injury to the roots. Every effort should be
made to maintain an equable condition in the soil,
not giving an excess of water at one time, and
allowiug the other extreme to occur at another. If
bottom heat is generated by fermenting materials,
this should be periodically examined aud restored
by the addition of some fresh materials mixed with
that already iu use. Tepid water ouly should be
afforded, and, until growth is well advanced, stimu-
lants iu liquid form should be applied sparingly, if

at all. Ventilation will be necessary only when
there is sunshine to raise the temperature above 70",
and then it must be given with caution if the winds
should be cold or frosty. Close early so as to
husband as much solar warmth as possible, which
is infinitely more invigorating than that obtained
from the hot-water pipes.

The Early Vinery. — Where the earliest Grapes
are obtained from planted-out Vines, these will
have been duly prepared, if not actually started,
prior to this date ; this being so, much the same
cultural conditions apply to these as are advised for
pot Vines. See that the border is not in a dry
state, but on the other hand, it is decidedly
unadvisable to lower its temperature by heavy
applications of water until there is some indication
of root activity. Outside borders, where they
exist iu early Viueries, should have a coveriug of
stable-manure and tree-leaves, sufficient to afford a
slight warmth to the soil. When there is a
tendency in |the Vines to break uuevenly, let the
rods be bent in curvilinear manner, or tie them
horizontally to the trellis along the- front of the
house.

The Early Peach-house. — Where the trees
planted are those of Early AVaterloo and Alexander,
there should be no attempt made to unduly force
them, or failure, more or less great, will be sure to
result in premature bud dropping. These varieties
must be allowed to advance up to and through the
flowering period under slowdy progressive treat-
ment. After that time they can be hurried for-
ward if necessary. Trees of these varieties,
aud the Early Rivers Nectarine, started the
first week in January, will furnish ripe fruits
at the end of April and early in May. Tem-
perature for these should not exceed 45° at
night, and but slight heat allowed from fire.
Ventilate, too, on bright mornings, so as to main-
tain a buoyant atmosphere, and to prevent any
uudue excitement iu sap movement. Main-
crop varieties that do duty for early work
will endure a few degrees higher temperature, aud
need it to bring them on early iu the summer, but
the effort should always be to avoid extremes from
any and every cause. Uniformity of temperature,
and also of root and atmospheric moisture, should
be the guiding rule. A light syringiug iu the tepid
water ouce or twice daily, will greatly assist the
swelling buds. Pot-grown trees standing outdoors
should uow be brought in if they are intended as a
first crop, or as a supplement to those established
iudoors. As their roots have been previously
attended to, there will be nothing further needed.
The condition of the soil and roots is more uniform
if the pots are either plunged iu the border or sunk
in a bed of tree-leaves aud litter. Trees that were
infested with red spider or scale last seasou, should
be dressed with some approved insecticide, to which
is added some clay aud sulphur, reduced with
water to the consistency of paint. Sulphur is
excellent for destroying scale or spider, used iu
sufficient quantity, and applied with a small
painter's brush.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. IIkrhin. Gardener to Lady Louisa Fortescub,
Dropmore, Maidenhead.

Planting Fruit Trees. — The very nnld aud open
weather which has prevailed throughout the winter,
with the exception only of a day or two in December,
has been most favourable for all planting operations
in connection with the outside fruit garden, aud
work of this kind will be in a generally forward
condition. Where not already completed, planting
may yet be successfully carried on iu open weather,
but the sooner, now, that is finished the better
chances the trees will have to become settled iu the
grouud aud ready to start iuto growth iu the
spring. Assuming that the ground has beeu pro-
perly prepared, the trees, if obtained from the
trade, should have the roots thoroughly moistened
if they are found to be in a dry condition, trimming
off any broken portions or shortening others that
are unduly long, aud then embed them into moist
soil till they are planted. Should the soil be
rather wet when this is done, a few shovelfuls of a
mixture of dry earth, wood ashes, aud sandy road-
scrapiugs should be afforded each tree in order to
facilitate the planting aud the production of young
roots. Let this kind of material be well worked
iu about the roots, which should be laid out in a
horizontal radiating position, giving the tree a
slight upward and downward shake when about

January 7, 1899.]

THE GA BDE NE B S ' CHli 0 XI CL E.

half the operation of tilling-in is finished, and press
the soil moderately firmly about the roots. Finish
off with a mulching of littery or slightly rotten
manure, with a view to excluding frost, encouraging
root action, and, later, conserving the moisture in
the soil.

Fasti "'hi [i Tret 8. — Standard and bush-headed trees
should be secured to stakes placed firmly in the
ground, the trees being fastened temporarily until
well-settled in the soil. Wall trees may be secured
from harm by gathering the branches together
loosely with matting, and tying these temporarily
to the wall from a nail on either side, leaving the
training to be done later on. In planting wall-
trees, due allowance must also be made for the
swelling of the stems, by planting six inches or
more from the base of the wall, and sloping the
stem upwards against the latter: and Pear-trees
especially need this attention, as their stems swell
to a considerable size. Apricots, too, canker and
gum, and lose branches from a too severe pressure
of the stem against the wall at the first point of
contact. An important item with newly-planted
trees is to properly label them before the nursery
labels are lost ; and for this purpose the Acme or
Stratford labels, in various shapes, are both cheap
and durable.

Pruning and Gleaning Orchard Trees. — Orchards
of Apple and Pear-trees are often left pretty much
to look after themselves, excepting at fruit-gather-
ing time, and consequently orchards in a bad con-
dition are rather common, although much has beeu
written and done in recent years, and a great im-
provement in this respect has resulted. The
present is a suitable time for a judicious thinning
and pruning of neglected standard-trees. Where
the crowns have beeu much neglected, with the
result that the branches are crowded, the pruning
should be carried out gradually in order that no
considerable check be giveu to the tree, the thin-
ning in such cases being extended over two or three
seasons. Begin by removing the innermost branches,
and those that cross each other a few at a time at
each winter's pruning. After sawiug-off a branch,
the wound should lie smoothed over with a sharp
pruuiug-knife, aud if very large painted over with
lead colour.

Dressing for Trees.— jTrees infested with lichen
should be cleansed, and moss or other growing
rubbish removed from the base of the tree. The
maiu branches maybe brushed over with lime-wash
made from freshly-slaked lime, or fresh lime in
powder may be scattered over them when moist.
One of the best aud simplest winter-dressings lor
fruit-trees of all kinds 1 have yei tried is that made
from an American recipe that appeared a few years
since iu a contemporary. It consists of caustic
soda aud potash in equal quantities. The propor-
tions as follows : — lib. of caustic soda, lib. of crude
commercial potash, to be dissolved iu a little hot
water, addiug to this sufficient clear soft water to
make 10 gallons, or if more or less be required iu
similar proportions. If the preparation be used at
a temperature of about 120°, it isthe more effectual.
This wash will remove moss and other parasites,
and also kill most kinds of insects and their eggs,
aud leave the trees in a clean aud healthy-looking
condition. If used for Peach aud Apricot-trees the
above quantities should be diluted with 12 gallons
of water, aud be used only while the buds are iu a
somewhat dormant state.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markuam, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,

Wrotham Park, Barnet
Preparation of the Land. — The principal work iu
the vegetable garden at the present timecousists of
simple digging or trenching, either two, three, or
four spits deep, the land being heavily or lightly
dressed with manure according to its requirement
and the special needs of the various crops to be
grown thereon. Fresh manure from the stock-yard
may be advantageously used where early digging is
practised, aud where uo immediate planting has to
be'done, as also for turning into the trenches when
land is dug two or more spits deep. For the crops
of Potatos, manure should be well decayed if it lie
put uear the top or close to the sets. Dig deeply
laud which is light, affording it plenty of manure at
a good depth, so that the roots of the plants grown
thereon will find their way down aud be less liable
to suffer from drought. [Some cultivators object
to the early digging of light land, preferring
to wait a few days before sowing or planting
under the idea that more moisture is lost

by such land when dug early, but this objectiou
seems to us to apply more to summer than winter
digging. Ed.] Do not dig land in sloppy weather ,
neither when it is much frozent but wheel manure
on to any piece of land which has yet to be dug.

Peas. — If asnugwarm border existsiu the kitchen-
garden, aud if uo Peas have as yet been sown, make
forthwith a sowing of such dwarf varieties as < Ihelsea
Gram, W. Hurst, and American Wouder, especially
the first uamed. Let the seed be sown somewhat
thickly in rows about two feet apart i and to make
them distasteful to mice, first damp the seeds and
then roll them iu red-lead powder. It may be
advisable to make a good sowing in small pots at
the same date, to be planted out. The seeds sown
in pots may be stood iu a cold frame and grown
sturdily, with plenty of air admitted. Peas may be
forced for an extra early supply of pods, but the
plants will not stand a high temperature before the
pods are formed. Peas should occupy a position
near the glass, and where air can be freely admitted
at all times without causing draughts. Bijou, or
any other of the dwarf type, may be chosen.
Attend to Peas just peeping through the ground,
scattering some finely sifted leaf-mould or coal-ashes
amongst them and alongside the rows, and letting
them be staked early, and place evergreen twigs
along the side of the rows as a protection against
wind and frost. The Pea-sticks of last year should
be overhauled and reprinted if worth it, and then
be bundled up in their various sizes. What will be
required iu the way of new Pea-sticks and Bean
stakes, 4c, should be obtained anil made ready
for use.

Oldbt Artichokes. — If not done already, the Globe
Artichokes should be protected from injury by frost
by packing a fairly good thickness of litter over the
roots and around the plants, keeping it in its place
with a few spadefuls of soil. In the meantime a
piece of land may be prepared for a fresh plantat inn,
the planting being done iu March. The new
plantation always affords a crop of heads iu succes-
sion to the old.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R, l'n: t, Gardener to the Dowager Ladi Howard

i.i \v \i di v. -st. James's House, Malvern.

Hippeculrums [Amaryllis). — Old bulbs should
at this season be quite at rest and dry at the root.
They winter quite safely in a temperature of 45°.
Seedlings which have not flowered should not be
rested, but should be kept gn.wiugjin the stove, or
any other well lighted glass-house where a tempera-
ture of about ISO can be maintained. A proportion
of the strongest bulbs raised from seed sown during
the summer of 1897 will flower during the coming
months of April and May, and the remainder in
the autumn and following spring. Seedlings which
have beeu raised from seed sown last July should
have been potted a month ago into 3-inch pots, aud
afforded a compost consisting of two parts loam aud
one part leaf-soil, with a liberal allowance of silver-
sand, and should be placed in the stove as uear to
the roof, or iu as light a part as possible. Hip-
peastrums may lie grovvu successfully without the
aid of bottom heat during any part of their growth.

' 'krysantht mums.- -The cuttings recently inserted
should be examined at frequent intervals, and
those which are rooted promptly removed from the
close frame or hand-light iu which they have been
struck, or otherwise they will become drawn and
weakened. They must be gradually hardened off,
and iu t he first iustauce may be placed outside the
frame iu the same house, where the night tempera
ture is uot lower than 4."> , air being admitted
sparingly at the first, otherwise flagging of the
foliage will result. The unrooted cuttings must be
prevented from damping by removing the light
from the frame early each morning for an hour, so
as to let the moisture in the air evaporate and the
leaves to become dry, at the same time wiping the
condensed moisture from the inside of the light.

Galadiums, Ti/d<it<, AchiTne&es, Gloxinias.—
Examine the pots of these from time to time which
are being rested under the stages and other out-of-
the-way places, in order to make sure that they are
dry and not exposed to drip from the stages, 4c.,
otherwise the bulbs aud conns may decay, or
start prematurely into growth.

Euphorbia [Poinsettia) pidcherrima and E.
Jacquinioefiora. — As soou as the plants of the first-
named go out of flower, or rat her when thebracts fall,
water should be gradually w ithheld, and, when the
soil is dry, they may be rested in a temperature of o0J
tp55°. or at the cooler part of the stove. Euphorbia

Jacquiniarfora may be rested in the same way, but
it should not be dried off to the same extent.

Bichardia (Calla) Elliottiana. -New seed of this
yellow Aroid germinates freely, and those who con-
template purchasing seed should procure it at once
from a trustworthy source. The seed may be placed
singly in thumb-pots, or sown in a 5-inch or 6-inch
pot, according to tin- number of seeds. A compost
of loam, leaf-soil, and sand will be suitable in either
case. The seed should be covered by half-an-inch
of soil, and the pots placed in the stove or pro-
pagating-case. A good watering should be afforded
iu the first place, and the soil should afterwards
be kept moist, when germination will take place
in about a month.

THE APIARY.

By Expert,
Preparing Bees fur Winter. In a previous

article 1 stated, as a sem qua /<"». that a colony, to
winter well, should contain a sufficient number of
bees. I am now reminded that I did not say what
this number should be. It surely would lie very
difficult to state this in thousands or tens of
thousands, and if I could do this it would be no
better than hieroglyphics to most of my readers — 1
might say to all of them, for no one can make
even an approximate guess at the number of bees a
hive contains. It will he much easier to say that
I would have bees on not less than live combs
when they are clustered or imbricated together on
a frosty morning, and the clusters should extend
for over one half of the length of the combs. A
strong colony, in a very good season, often covers
the greater part of its combs below the honey, and
it is a very good sign when you raise the super, or
the cloth, or the honey-board, from the body, to
see the bees clustered a little way down from the
top of the combs. At the bottom they will, if
healthy, reach clear down to the alighting-board,
and will be on the alert at a minute's notice. The
hive should lie reduced to the size of the colony, for
if is worse than useless to have empty comb,
perhaps containing neither bees nor honey, at one
side or the other. For this reason, with the large
hives that we use, we always have a division-board,
or dummy, which may be moved up when the use-
h Bf combs an- removed, so as to reduce the si/.- oi
the hive, if needed, to a size proportionate to the
strength of the colony. The dry combs are
removed to the honey-house, and put away for
future use, aud the empty space on the side is tilled
with warmth-retaining moisture -absorbing mate-
rials. If we cannot increase the. streugth of our
colony, it is at least a good plan to reduce the size
of the hive to lit it, in such a way as this. But
tin- strong colonies, covering every comb, are much
to !»■ preferred.

/'in/./ for Bees.- Now comes the question of
food. If a sufficient number of bees is absolutely
necessary to a safe wintering, it is equally evident
that enough food must be had, and in an available

position in reach of the 1 - ; 251b, of honey is

considered sufficient, in an ordinary winter, for tin-
needs of a colony. With large hives, we would
place this amount as a minimum, and would say
•J."> lb. to 40 lb. A much smaller amount may
suffice, and we have reliable reports from experts
showing that a colony, wintered in the cellar, may
be brought through with as little as 5 lb. or 6 lb. ;
but I would counsel no oneto try. First, the
trials that have been made and have resulted in
so light a consumption were only for the time which
the bees passed in the cellar. The hives and bees
were weighed at the moment of cellaring, and
again weighed when removed, but they had more
honey than the quantity mentioned as consumed ;
and if it had been otherwise, some of the bees
might have been out of the reach of the scant.
supply, and their loss would have entailed the loss
of the colony. Besides, these colonies have already
passed through a couple of months of autumn
weather when put away, which necessitated some
food, and this amount should be computed, as well
as the amount which they would consume whin
taken out of the cellar between that and the time
of the honey-flow ; and this amount would be very
much greater than either the autumnal consump-
tion or even the cellar consumption, for in the
spring they need food, not only for the adult bees,
that consume but little, but mainly for the young
brood, which requires a very great amount of food
to reach the adult state — and this brood-rearing
must not be restrained under penalty of having but
a weak colony at the opening of the harvest, and a
consequent light tlow of nectar.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 7, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, as mil as specimens and plants far
naming, should is 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 at pbssiblei'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.

Illustrations.— The Editor wilt, thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for Reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, <f o. ; but
he cannot be. responsible for loss or injury.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers.— -Correspondents sending newspapers should be.
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to sec.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

Jan.

TUESDAY,

SATURDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, Jan.

THURSDAY, . Jan. 1

{Royal Hort. Soc. Committees.
Scottish Hort. Assoc. Meeting.
Roy. Hort. Soc. of Ireland Meeting.

Jan. 14— Royal Botanic Society Meeting.

FRIDAY,

Jan. 13

SALES.

( Roses, Hardy Border Plants, Car-
9-| nations, &c. at Protheroe &
\. Morris' Rooms.

/Lilies, Preonies, Hardy Perennials,
10 ■[ &<•., at Protheroe & Morris'
l_ Rooms.

fLilium auratum, Tuheroses, Green
11-! house Plants, Gladioli, &c, at
l. Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

j Hardy Border and Herbaceous
nts and Bulbs in variety, at
iheroe L Morris Rooms.

Spirsas, Gloxinias, Iris. Rcses,&c.,
at Protheroe A: Morris' Booms,

Imported and Established Orchids,
by order of Messrs. F. Sander <x
Co., at Protheroe & Morris'
Rooms.

1 Hardy 1
2* Plants
( Prothei

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswiek.— 36'4°.

Actual Temperatures :—

London. — TanuaTU I (6 p.m.): Max., 55° ; Mill., 43°.
Provinces.— January ur, p.m. >: Max., 51°, S.E. and S.
counties ; Min., 40°, Shetland.

Among tho honours recently

Sirw.T. conferred • upon men of emi-

Thiselton Dyer. . ' .

nence in their several depart-
ments, we note with gratification the name of
Mr. W. T. Thiselton Dyer. , The official noti-
fication runs as follows : —

Chancery of the Order of St. Michael and

St. George, Downing Street, Jan. 2, 1899.

The. Queen has been graciously pleased to give

directions for the following promotiou in, and

appointment to, the Most Distinguished Order of

St. Michael and St. George :—

To be [an] Ordinary Member of the Second Class,
or Knight Commander of the said most distinguished
Order —

William Turner Thiselton Dyer, Esq., C.M.G.,
CLE., Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens,
Kew, in recognition of services rendered to
Colonial Governments.

Of course, it is in his capacity of Director of
the Royal Gardens, Kew, that Sir W. T. This-
elton Dyer, K.C.M.G., has been enabled,
like his predecessors, to render such signal
services to the colonies. The honour conferred
may thus be considered as an official acknow-
ledgment of the conspicuous zeal [and ability

with which the gardens have been administered,
and by which the colonies have profited in
common with the rest of the nation.

Apart from any satisfaction on personal
grounds, we note with pleasure in this appoint-
ment a recognition of the claims of horticul-
ture and botany on the consideration of the
Government.

The honour conferred on Sir W. T. Thiselton
Dyer is timely and appropriate, as it coincides
with the completion of the great Temperate-
house in the Royal Gardens.

effects or for their utilitarian purposes. The
consequence is, that collections have become
less interesting and more monotonous, owing to
the cultivation of large numbers of one or of a
few things. At the same time the number of
persons interested in horticulture has largely
increased ; the taste, at one time principally
confined to the well-to-do few, is now generally
diffused, and the artisan and the allotment-
holder often get more personal pleasure out of
their garden than do the owners of more pre-
tentious establishments.

SIR W. T. THISELTON DYER, K.C.M.G.
(Director, Royal Gardens, Kew.)

1899.

The first, number of the New
Year affords a fitting opportunity
for looking ahead in order to
note what is likely to take place in the coming
months. We have lately had the opportunity
of noting the progress of our art and of our
science, and the great extension of horticultural
pursuits that is taking place. There are, it is true,
if we except ( hehids, fewerplant-loversandfewer
plant-collecticms in proportion than there used
to be. Now-a-days the tendency is to value
plants almost exclusively for their decorative

One circumstance, small in itself, shows the
general drift. The committee meetings of the
Royal Horticultural Society were wont to be
held at fortnightly intervals all through the
spring, summer, and autumn ; whilst in the three
winter months a meeting once in four or five
weeks sufficed. Now this is not considered
adequate ; and, somewhat to the disrelish of
the caterers for the press, the meetings in ques-
tion will be held regularly once a fortnight
throughout the year. The_Temple_ Show and
the Great Fruit Show at the Crystal Palace will

Janiary 7, 1899.]

THE GA B DE NE B S ' CUB 0 NI C L E.

JFlG. 4. — ARUKDINARIA XOBILIS (HEIGHT 23 FEET), FROM THE GARDEN OF J. RASHLEIGH, ESQ., MENABILLY. (SEE P. 2.)

10

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Jan-wart 7, 1899.

take place as usual. At Chiswick, the Council
of the Royal Horticultural Society propose to
hold a Conference on the very important sub-
ject of Hybridisation. At the present time
nothing can be more appropriate, as the progress
of horticulture has of late manifested itself very
much in the direction of experimental cross-
breeding, and there is every reason to expect
that the importance of the subject, whether as
regards its scientific or its practical aspect, will
largely increase. In due time we shall be in a
position to lay before our readers further details ;
in the meantime, we may record our satisfac-
tion that the series of Conferences which have
been so very helpful in the accumulation and
digestion of facts is to be continued, and that
one, at least, is to be held in the old garden at
Chiswick.

Our Almanac, published with the present
issue, shows that the number of exhibitions
to be held in London and the Provinces
will be very large, especially in the Chrys-
anthemum season. We have to thank the
secretaries of many of these societies for their
kindness in sending us intimation of the dates
fixed for their meetings. Some of the societies
have not yet decided on the time of their exhi-
bitions, and other records may be subject to
alteration. Our list, notwithstanding, is as
complete and up-to-date as we can make it in
the space at our disposal.

On the Continent, there will be the usual
great shows of the Societe Nationale d'Horti-
culture in Paris, in which city the preparations
for the great exhibition of 1900 will naturally
occupy much attention.

St. Petersburg also is to have an International
Exhibition, but , we fear that visitors from
England will be few, and exhibits fewer still.
Another Warner to take over a tine collection
of Orchids is hardly likely to be found ; never-
theless, we trust that our fiuit-growers will
uphold the honour of their country, both in
Paris and in St. Petersburg. We do not think
our foreign friends are at all generally aware of
our superiority in fruit culture.

Ghent is not exhausted with its efforts of last
yetir, and is not going to wait for another quin-
quennium before asserting itself. The State
School of Horticulture was established fifty
years ago, at first in connection with the
famous establishment of Louis van Houtte. It
has had among its professors, Planchon,
Crepin, Kiukx. It still numbers our excellent
friends and colleagues Rodigas, the Director,
Pynaert and others, well known and highly
esteemed in this country. A large number of
youths have passed through the curriculum, and
many of them are now filling posts of great
responsibility in various quarters of the globe.
Some of our nurserymen and others have sent
their sons to obtain the benefit of the training
in scientific and practical horticulture, which
they could not, till recently, get at home. Our
Belgian friends never miss the opportunity of a
"jtte;" and we have no, doubt that their cele-
bration of the Jubilee of their School of Horti-
culture will be a great success, and bring
together a number of the old pupils to meet and
encourage their successors. An exhibition is
to be held, various meetings for the discussion
of affairs in general are planned, and, of course,
the inevitable banquet.

Another ' ' Grande Exposition Internationale "
is announced to be held in the same city from
April 30 to May 9. The Exhibition is to be
held in the grounds of M. Van Imschoot. The
schedule comprises no fewer than eight hundred
and fifty-eight classes.

At Kew, the completion of the Temperate-
house places that establishment even more ahead
of all other similar establishments than it was
before — truly it is an establishment to be proud
of. The opening up of the grounds round the
Queen's cottage, the devotion to the purposes of
the garden of the Kew Palace, the new offices,
with their excellent accommodation for the
young gardeners — all these matters afford a
guarantee that the future of our great national
horticultural establishment will be as brilliant
in the future as it has been in the past, and its
utility even greater.

The mention of Kew reminds us that horti-
cultural botany suffers a great loss by the
retirement of Mr. J. G. Baker from his post as
Curator of the Herbarium, in accordance with
the regulations relating to age laid down by the
Civil Service Commissioners. Our columns
amply testify to the unwearied patience and
skill exercised by Mr. Baker, and very many
of our readers have had, as we know, reason to
appreciate, like ourselves, the knowledge, the
urbanity, and the ever-manifest willingness to
oblige, which have been such marked charac-
teristics in the career of Mr. Baker.

We believe that Mr. Hemsley will take up
Mr. Baker's duties, and that being the case,
we may be sure that whilst the interests of
botany will not suffer, the claims of horticulture
will meet with the fullest recognition.

Lastly, as the annual meetings will shortly be
held, we may make a passing allusion to our
garden charities. They are amply worth all the
assistance and support that our readers can give
them, as in spite of an antiquated, and as
we think, vicious system of voting, they give
great advantages at a minimum of cost.

The objections sometimes raised to the Gar-
deners' Royal Benevolent by reason of the occa-
sional preference of candidates who have contri-
buted nothing whilst they had the means of
doing so, has been met by the establishment of
the Victoria Fund, which ensures to those can-
didates who have contributed to the society a
measure of assistance during the time that they
are waiting for the full fruition of the pension.
In any case, if one candidate gets in whilst
another has to wait, the circumstance is inevit-
able under the present system of voting, and
the fault, if fault it be, lies with the voters,
and with those who refrain from giving their
support to the Institution.

The Gardeners' Orphan Fund also does not
receive so much support from the gardeners as
it ought to do ; and it is said, though we do not
like to believe it, that Scotland and Scottish
gardeners are remiss in this particular. If this
be so, we hope that our friends across the
border will see to it that 1899 does not pass
away without a vigorous effort being made to
put things on a more satisfactory footing. The
announced retirement of Mr. Barron from the
post of Secretary will be received with the
greatest concern. Probably no one thing in his
long and useful career has given him more
satisfaction than his labours on behalf of the
Orphan Fund. In his retirement he will retain
the sympathy and affectionate regard of all
those with whom he has been associated.

Royal Horticultural Society— The first

meeting of the Committees of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society in 1899 will be held as usual in the
Drill Hall, James Street, Westminster, on Tuesday,
January 10, from ] to 4 p.m. The Scientific Com-
mitte will meet in the library on the same day, at
4 P.M.

The "Journal of the Royal Horticul-
tural SOCIETY." — The part just issued is one of

even greater interest than usual. Mr. Sherwood's
paper on the history of garden Peas is very
interesting from many points of view. The extent
to which variation has been carried may be judged
from the circumstance here mentioned, that Messrs.
Hurst had last seasoD nearly 700 rows of Peas for
comparison. Of course, a considerable proportion
of these were distinct only in name, but, in any
case, the amount of variation and the progressive
improvement that have been secured are very note-
worthy. Mr. Freeman-Mitford's paper on the
economic uses of the Bamboo is an apt complement
to his former memoir on this subject. M. Latouk
Marliao's paper on hardy Water Lilies will be
read with interest by those who cultivate these
lovely plants. Twenty-seven varieties are de-
scribed, and seven more are promised. Mr.
Hudson's paper narrates the experience of that
skilful cultivator in dealing with these plants in
the vicinity of London. Perpetual Strawberries
appeal to the general public as well as to the gar-
dener, and M. de Vilmorin's paper will in
consequence be read with eager interest. Mr.
Eoupell's paper on fruit-growing near London is
very suggestive. The reports on the Chiswick
trials of Cannas, Pelargoniums, Violas, and other
plants are useful as far as they go, but it is to be
regretted that so much good material for scientific
investigation is allowed to pass unutilised, with the
result that progress in consequence is delayed un-
necessarily.

The Royal Academy of Sciences founded
in Paris in 1666, held its first public meeting on
April 29, 1699.

Liege : The Botanical Institute.— Under

the auspices of the University of Liege, the
Botanical Institute has now issued the first volume
of its Archives. It consists of a record of certain
researches made by the pupils under the direction
of Professor Gravis. The aim of the Professor is
to investigate the minute anatomy of the several
orders on a definite plan, so as to permit of com-
parison beiug made, as is done in the case of syste-
matic botany. Much of the work done in modern
botanical laboratories is defective in this particular.
Very little pains are taken to ascertain the correct-
ness of the name of the plant selected for exami-
nation, and hitherto but little has been done save
by Vesque, Eadlkofer, and a few others, to treat
histological characters in exactly the same way
that ordinary " naked-eye " appearances are dealt
with by systematic botanists. In other words,
comparison, discrimination, and judgment are, to
the full, as necessary in the study of minute
anatomy as they are in that of external morphology.
The anatomy of certain genera of Ranunculacea?,
such as Delphinium, Thalictrum, and Clematis, is
dealt with in detail by MM. Lenfant, Mansion,
and Sterckx. Numerous illustrations are given,
so that the value of these communications to the
future historian of the order will be incalculable.

French HorticulturalSociety qf London.

— We are informed that the annual dinner of the
French Horticultural Society of London will take
place on Saturday, the 14th inst., at the Imperial
Restaurant, Strand.

Mr. BRI8COE - IRONSIDE. — Chrysanthemum-
growers who remember Mr. Briscoe-Ironside, or
who have grown some of his novelties, will be
interested to learn that henceforth that gentleman
will leave the ranks of the amateur and take to
Chrysanthemum culture professionally. In conjunc-
tion with an Italian amateur cultivator of the popular
autumn flower, Dr. Stroppa, we learn that Mr.
Briscoe-Ironside intends to start a nursery close
to Milan, where special attention will be given to
the flower in every phase. The style of the new
firm is Messrs. Stroppa & Briscoe-Ironside,
Chrysanthemum Specialists, Tradate, Lombardy,
Italy.

Colonial Parcel Post. — On and after

January 1, 1S99, the postage to be prepaid on
parcels for the uuder-mentioued places will be, for

Jan*abt 7, 1899.]

THE GA RDE NE R S ' CHE 0 NI CL E.

11

each parcel weighing not over 3 lb., Is. ; over 3 lb.,
but not over 7 lb., 2s. ; over 7 lb., but not over
11 lb., 3s. : — Antigua, Ascension, Bahamas, Bar-
bados, Britisli East Africa, British Honduras,
Beyrout, Ceylon, Constantinople (by direct steamer),
Cyprus, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Gambia,
Gibraltar, Gold Coast Colony, Grenada, Johore (via
Singapore), Lagos (Africa), Malta (by direct
steamer), Moutserrat, Nevis, Newfoundland, Niger
Coast Protectorate, Niger Territory, St. Helena,
St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent (West Indies),
Sarawak, Se3'chelles, Sierra Leone, Smyrna (by
direct steamer). Straits Settlements, Tobago,
Tortola, Trinidad. A similar change will be made
in the postage on parcels from these places for the
United Kingdom. The parcel postage to and from
other British possessions, protectorates, &c, will
remain unchanged.

"Dictionnaire Pratique d'Horticulture."

— This is now approaching completion, and should
find a place in every garden-library where the
French language forms no bar to its use. One very
useful feature in the part before us, and one which
found no place in the English edition, is a complete
list arranged according to the natural orders of the
genera described in the book. It often happens
that the gardener knows the natural order of a
particular plant, but |that the genera are so nume-
rous, that even a professed botanist cannot, without
the aid of a herbarium, and the expenditure of
much time, ascertain to what genus his plant
belougs. A list such as is now given us of those
genera only winch are in cultivation reduces the
difficulty very materially, and will supply many a
hint to anyone who knows the principal natural
orders at sight. The Dictionnaire is published by
Mr. Octave Doin, 8, Place l'Odeon, Paris.

Presentation.— Mr. George Wall, for the
past twelve years head gardener to W. S. Cii.kkli,
Esq., (4rims Dyke, Harrow Weald, was the recipient
last week of a handsome silver inkstand, presented
by the garden staff' on the occasion of his resiguing
the charge of the garden at GrimB Dyke. Mr.
Wall carries with him from the neighbourhood
the best wishes of a large circle of gardening
friends, to whom he has endeared himself by his
ability as a gardener, and his courtesy.

Sea-water, and its Effects on Vegeta-
TION. — Should sea-water be brought to Loudon
under the London Sea-water Company's Act (59 &
<i'> Viet. c. 158), and the water be employed for
street watering, we fear that, unless some means
are taken to prevent its ingress to the soil in which
our roadside trees are growing, that these will even-
tually be destroyed. Where wood-paving is used, the
stratum of concrete beneath the wood-blocks may
act as a preventative of the penetration of the water,
and the same holds good of asphalte roads. The chief
danger lies where macadam or ordinary stone
pitching are the materials forming the road, and
beneath which the roots of the trees lining the
road or standing in adjacent forecourts and gardens
are found in considerable numbers. Those respon-
sible for the watering of such roads and streets
should be empowered to use only water taken from
the existing fresh-water mains, otherwise irre-
parable injury will bo done to the admirable
arboreal vegetation bordering some of our finest
thoroughfares.

The Luxembourg Garden.— It is proposed
to erect in this charming Parisian garden a statue
to Dauhet, not far from that of WATTEAU. The
gardens themselves have, under a succession of
architect-directors unacquainted with horticulture,
and with no feeling for the beauties of plants,
acquired many undesirable and useless features, but
enough remains to fill the lover of a garden witli
delight. It was once the richer for a large collec-
tion of Boses and of Vines, but the latter were
removed many years ago to the Jardiu d'Acclimata-
tion, and it now contains an excellent collection of
Orchids and Camellias, and a large number of
Oleanders, grown in big tubs ; the latter, being of

great size, make splendid objects when in bloom.
The success attending the culture of the Oleander
in Paris is probably due to the early formation and
ripening of the wood, and the complete rest obtained '
in the orangery in the winter.

WALTHAM CROSS ROSES.— We have received a
volume including, in chronological order, the cata-
logues of the Roses cultivated and sent out by
Messrs. William Paul & Son, of Waltham Cross,
Herts, from 18S3 to 1897. It forms a wonderful record
of gardening work during these fourteen years, and is
likely to be constantly referred to by rosarians.
The lists of varieties are well arranged, and there
are many illustrations ; aome in black and white,
others brightly coloured. The uninitiated will be
astonished to see so large a catalogue of known and
named Roses, all so beautiful as to render selection
difficult. It is not wonderful that Mr. William
Paul is ,l famous for his Roses all over the world,"
since the share he has taken in their cultivation has
been largely instrumental in bringing them to such
a high degree of perfection.

The New Gulliver ; or, Travels in
Athomia, by Chas. T. Dki krv, F.L.S., V.M.H.
— We are asked to state thai owing to the failure
of his publishers, the author has determined to
issue this book himself, from his address, 11, Sbac
Road, Acton, W.

"The Pond-weeds of the British Isles."

— Mr. Alfkei> Fryer, with the assistance of Mr.
Robert Morgan, as artist, has had the boldness to
undertake, and what is more to publish, a mono-
graph of the species and varieties of Potamogetou
native to tin' British Isles. The work is published
in parts, of which six are now before us. Bach
species is described at length, and forms the sub-
ject of a royal 4to coloured plate. The pond-weeds
are subject to a large amount of variation according
to tile age of the plant, and the conditions under
which it is growing. This fact of itself accounts
for much of the difficulty in determining aud
delineating the species. A greater source of diffi-
culty arises from the frequent occurrence of hybrids.
Mr. Fryer has not been contented solely with
examining the plants in their wild state, but he has
cultivated them aud watched them duriug growth,
thus ascertaining what variations are mere stages
of growth, aud also witnessing the gradual reversion
of many of the so-called varieties to the origiual
type. Some of the hybrids are sterile, others are
fertile, while others show evidence of multiple
parentage. The evidences of hybridisation iu this
genus seem to be all indirect or inferential ; possibly,
later on, we may be favoured with the results of
the author's experiments with the plants under cul-
tivation, and lie may produce artificially the same
hybrid forms which he meets with naturally — as
has been done in the case of numerous Orchids.
Iu any case, botanists aud students of variation are
under great obligations to Mr. Fryer for the
production of this very interesting monograph.
The publishers arc Messrs. Lovell Reeve & Co.,
Henrietta Street, Covent Garden.

THE SEMAINE HORTICOLE. — This newly-
established journal is now entering upon its third
year. Founded aud managed by M. Lucieh Lin-
hex, it is now about to be transferred to a company,
and is to be conducted entirely on an independent
basis. Its scope is to be exteuded so as to include
matters relating to colonial agriculture, especially
iu reference to the Congo State. For this reason
the Semaint HorticolewiU add to its title that of
Hi rui d s Cultures Colonial* a. More attention than
hitherto will be given to fruit culture and market-
gardening. We wish it every success.

Open Spaces: Petersham Common.— The
Board of Agriculture, in response to a memorial
addre=sed to them, have drawn up a scheme, in
pursuance of the Metropolitan Commons Acts,
1886-98, iu respect of Petersham Common. The
scheme provides that the common shall be regulated
and managed by the Corporation of Richmond, who

are empowered to execute drainage aud other
improvements, to plant trees and shrubs, and
render the ground more pleasant for recreation aud.
exercise, but are inhibited from doing anything that
shall otherwise alter its natural features, or inter-
fere with free access to every part. The Richmond
Town Couucil are also deputed to frame bye-laws
for the prevention of nuisances, trespasses, or injury
to the common, and for the regulation of games and
of assemblages of persons thereon.

Garden Year-Books.— The Horticultural
Directory (12, Mitre Court Chambers, Fleet
Street). — Forty years of experience afford sufficiently
satisfactory evidence that this unpretending little
volume is just what the gardener wants. The
directions for preparing the Bordeaux Mixture
might be more explicit with advantage ; and the
list of commission-agents and salesmen in Covent
Garden might be considerably extended. The new
postal regulations are included, and every attempt
has been made to bring this useful publication up
to date.

The Garden Annual (37, Southampton Street)
neosssarily covers much the same ground as its older
competitor. More space is allotted to seasonable work,
aud the adoption of black-faced type in some parts
ofjthe book is an advantage. A list, by no means a
complete one, is given of some of the principal
public parks aud gardens. Iu the postal regula.
tions we fail to find mention of the recent changes;
or of the rates for foreign postage ; but, on the
other hand, there is a very useful note relating to
the Parcel-post for plants. Gardeners will find this ,
a very serviceable "annual."

A New Text-book of Botany.— An Elemen-
tary Text-book of Botany, by Sydney Vines, M.A.
This work is issued to meet a demand for a less
bulky volume than the author's Students' Text-book
of Botany. It is intended as a book of reference
for the student, aud hence does not include any
accounts of the methods of examining plants, either
as to their external morphology, or their minute
anatomy. Nor are the subjects of fossil botany aud
the distribution of plants throughout the various
regions of the globe touched upon. It deals with
morphology, minute anatomy, physiology, aud clas-
sification, aud thus supplies a more complete view of
the science than do most modern text-books. It is
matter for surprise that Prof. Vines has been enabled
to comprise so much within the compass of some 600
pages. Needless to say, the information is accu-
rate aud up to date ; whilst the style is clear, and
the convenience of the student is considered by the
inclusion of two indexes aud a table of contents.
The work is one to be strongly commended. It
may be had from Messrs. Swan, Sonnenschein
& Co.

LlLIUM HENRYI. Although perfectly hardy at
Kew, this species has thriven in the large Ternpe-.
rate-house ever since its introduction, the stems
attaining a height from 8 to 10 feet. A bulb
grown in this house and recently lifted weighed,
after being washed aud divested of roots, 2J lb. ,
and measured 18 inches in girth. The scales are
dull vinous purple in colour. This bulb is about
six years old.

Horticultural Club.— The usual monthly

dinner and conversazione will take place at the
Hotel Windsor, Victoria Street, S.W.,ou Tuesday,
January 10, at 6 p.m. The subject for discussion
will be "A Chat about Chrysanthemums, " to be
opened by Mr. ('. E. Shea.

National Rose Society.— A meeting of the
General Purposes Committee will be held at the
Rooms of the Horticultural Club, Hotel Windsor,
Victoria Street, Westminster, on Tuesday, the
10th inst., at 'J P.M. H. HONYWOOD DOMBRAIN,
Edward MAWLEY, Hon. Secretaries.

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institu-
tion.— Mr. C. J. Ingram, Secretary, desires us to
inform the friends of the Institution that the
annual friendly supper will take place on Thursday:

12

THE GABDENEBV CHBONICLE.

[January 7, 1809.

January 19, at 6 o'clock sharp, at "Simpson's,"
101, Strand, W.C., George Monro, Esq. (of
Covent Garden) in the chair.

Sherborne Castle Gardens.— A successor

to the late Mr. Pragnell, the well-known gardener
at this place, has been found, in one not less
known, and not less worthy, iu the person of Mr.
Thomas Turton, who has for twenty years been
head gardener at Maiden Erlegh, Reading. Mr.
Turton has so long been well known as an excel-
lent gardener, energetic and enthusiastic, that his
retirement from Reading will be a great loss. Sin-
cerely esteemed and respected by all brought into
contact with him, his fellow-gardeners have shown
their confidence by making him duriug the present
year the chairman of their Mutual Improvement
Association. He has been actively associated with
the local horticultural societies for many years.
One of the late Wildsmith's young men at Heck-
field Place, he has, in common with so many
others who weut from Heckfield, done ample justice
to the training he received whilst working there.

Publications Received.— Journal of the Essex

Technical Laboratories, vol. iii. (1897). Edited by
David Houston, F.L.S. This monthly bulletin
iucludes papers upou : Essential Soil Constituents,
by T. S. Dymond ; Poisonous Plants of Essex, by
J. C. Sheastone ; Pruuiug Orchard Trees, C.
Wakely ; Propagation of Plauts, 0. Wakely ; Pre-
vention of Potato Disease, W. G. Watkins ; and
other horticultural and agricultural matters. — The
Chrysanthemum, H. J. Joues. A cheap useful
pamphlet, published by Biggs & Son, Salisbury
Court, E. C. , giving brief notes on the history and
cultivation of the Chrysanthemum, and lists of the
best varieties of different forms. — Bulletin of the
Botanical. Department, Jamaica, November, 1S98.
Contains notes upon Giuger in Jamaica, Tobacco in
the United States, Cottonseed Oil Industry, and
Gas-lime iu Agriculture. — Oenossenschaft "Flora,"
Gesellschaft filr Botanik und Qartenbau :u Dr. tden.
Sitzuugsberichte und Abhandluugen, 1897-1898.
( Transactions >f the Botanical and Horticultural
Society of Dresden.) Contains an important paper
upon the Cyuipidie of Saxony and their Galls, by
Max Riedel, Dresden. — Davenport's (Brewery,
Ltd., Birmingham), Pocket Book ami Diary for
1889, a useful well got-up publication, with much
of the usual kind of information in request every
day, together with matters connected with sport.—
My tin,;/, ii Diary for 1899 : Messrs. Sutton & Sons.
Reading. A tastefully got up little manual, fur-
nished with a calendar of the month on the right-
band pages, together with space for making
memoranda. Tl)3 left-hand pages contain directions
for the gardener during the month.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Bignonia BUCciNAToaiA, a magnificent creeper, hardy in
the Riviera ; flowers ?,\ inches long, scarlet-crimson. Revm
Uorticole, December tii.

Tear Petite Mar.gukr.ite. -Little Margaret is a Pear of
much excellence, ripe at the end of August. Gartetiflora,

1 . 14.".,.

Home Correspondence,

MR. EDWARD WHITTALL.— Those who under-
stood that the Mr. Edward Whittall who was cap-
tured by brigands was the good friend who has
been the means of introducing so many new bulbs
from the Smyrna district, will be gratified to know
that this is not so. The sufferer was a nephew of
Mr. Whittall, who, fortunately, was young and ath-
letic, and is none the worse for his experiences.
What has occurred will, however, make us realise
more than we have hitherto done the earnestness
of our kind friend in his plant-hunting expeditions,
and the risks they bring. The brighter side of the
picture is seen in a letter from Mr. Whittall, dated
December 21, in which he speaks of the glorious
weather they have had up to that date, and of the
sunlit, balmy days, with gardens bright with
winter and summer flowers all in full bloom. I
take the liberty of quoting a few words from his

letter: — "Just picture to yourself a beautiful
white Camellia, with a background of red Gera-
niums and many-coloured Cannas, or else a bank
of Rose-trees, with a foreground of Heliotrope and
white Hyacinths. Such are the sights we have
before us to-day, and wonderful are the effects
alongside of the autumn tints of the tree-foliage.
I have never seen such a thing before." S. Arnott,
Carsethorn, by Dumfries, N.B,

INCOME-TAX REPAYMENTS.— As most of your
readers, who are engaged in business, are now
ascertaining the amount of their profits for the year
1898, will you allow us to remind them that, if such
profits show a diminution, or are less than the
amount upou which they have been assessed for
Income-tax, they may be entitled to the repayment
of a considerable portion of the Income-tax paid iu
respect of the same, and to point out the importance
of making the claim forthwith. Many traders and
others submit to over-charges because they feel that
it is hopeless to appeal against their assessments,
having failed on previous occasions to get the same
reduced. In most cases that have come under our
notice we have found that the reason why they have
failed is that they have not furnished the commis-
sioners with proper accounts, which are absolutely
necessary to enable them to satisfy themselves that
the assessment is excessive. Others, again, have
neglected to keep any accounts of their business
transactions. If proper accounts be kept, or even
if a proper cash account be presented (which is very
simple by usiug the Taxpayers' Cash-Book), there
is but little difficulty in establishing a claim. The
increase iu the abatements now allowed in respect
of incomes uot exceeding £700 per annum renders
it well worth while to take the little trouble necessary
to keep a proper record of business transactions, as
the relief granted to persons with small incomes is
considerable. Thousands of people pay tax for
which they are not liable, more particularly those
whose incomes are derived from property and
investments where tax is deducted before bung
paid to the recipients, or when dividends are paid
" free of Income-tax. " Claims cau in many cases
now be made for four years, aud the stun repayable
might in the case of private incomes alone exceed
£42 up to the end of the current financial year, to
say nothing of the tax allowed iu respect of life
insurance premiums, even when the income exceeds
£700. We shall be glad to advise any of your
readers, gratuitously, whether they eau make a
claim, if they send us full particulars of their
incomes aud a stamped addressed envelope. The
Income-tax Adjustment Agency, 12 and 13, Poultry,
Loudon, E C., December 28, 1898.

NATURE'S COMPENSATIONS. -When it is sug-
gested that in our more northerly latitudes we lose
so much that is beautiful in the winter months,
because nearly all our trees and so many of our
shrubs are deciduous, those who so criticise seem
to forget that we get variety in very diverse forms,
and that in such variety alone do we find great
compensations. But after all, is it to live in a
paradise or an elysium to exist in a country where
the foliage is ever green and leafage is perpetual ?
may there not be even under such conditions much
that is monotonous and wearisome. It is true, that
the home resident, passing from frost and snow into
tile huge temperate or tropical houses, at Kew, for
instance, may like and appreciate the change, but
living perennially in such surroundings may well
make him sigh for those natural variations which
European countries furnish. And after all, what
in all Nature can be more beautiful than seeing vast
masses of overhanging trees, the tiniest portion of
spray, on which is glistening and sparkling in the
wintry sunlight with hoar-frost? Nothing that the
wildest imaginary fairyland can produce can equal
such a spectacle in its wondrous beauty.
But even when there is no frost, and every branch
and shoot on tree is bare, is there not in the sin-
gularly effective tracery the varied forms of tree-
branch presents against the sky, much that com-
pensates for loss of leafage. Nay, where the trees
ever in leaf we should neither see nor realise how
great is the wealth of beauty thus furnished. And
then see the varied forms which tree-branches pre-
sent. The lofty Elm. the broad stately Oak, the giant
and round-headed Horse-Chestnut, the grand Plane,
or the tall Lime, the loftier Poplar, or not least
the drooping and refined Birch and Beech, with
their pleasing spray. How all these, in their
exceeding diversities of form and beauty, stand out
in marked contrast to the heavily-clothed and

somewhat funereal aspect presented by the cone-
shaped Firs, or more highly-cultivated Conifers.
K the latter seem oppressive and mournful objects
in the landscape, we have in the light varied
branches of the deciduous trees a delightful foil,
and an effective refresher of the soil. But apart
from these compensations, there are the singularly
beautiful foliage changes seen in the autumn,
which, if evanescent, yet are, whilst they last,
brilliantly lovely. Leafage dies, not of the lugu-
brious black, which humans favour as typical
of decay. Rather does it, as if in joyous anti-
cipation of change and recreation, or resurrection
in other forms, clothe itself in rich and beautiful
tints, making the landscape to revel in golds,
pinks, browns, reds, yellows, and many other sun-
set hues. What tropical country, what latitude of
perennial green, can furnish anything so delightful
as is found in the annual decay of leaves ? And
then further, when, after a few months of defolia-
tion, the warmer forces of spring commence to
operate, what in all Nature then is more pleasing
than that presented in the new leafage, expanding
slowly, yet in so many diverse shades of the normal
green ? Here again is a fairy-like change — a literal
transformation -scene. How with the clothing of
the trees in living green comes with it the awaken-
ing of Nature in every direction. The grass puts
on its hue of rich verdure, the Ferns once more
send up their fronds, the Furze blossoms, the birds
twitter and sing, the insects chirp and hum, and
all the land is alive with beauty and harmony.
Really our compensations excel greatly our losses.

THE SHREWSBURY GRAPE CLASSES.— I desire
to support "Exhibitor's" wish to see a scale of
relative value for judging. I fiud in the Horticul-
tural Handbook and Exhibitors' Guide a system of
judging exhibits by relative value, which meets the
case of Grape-judging admirably. In the method
there given, cultural value and relative merit, are
adjudged separately, and the result put in different
columns. The maximum for cultural value is given
at five poiuts, aud the maximum of relative merit
at 1'. the difference between the kinds being com-
puted iu decimals, which is simple aud appropriate,
although generally not well understood. The
maximum is accorded to varieties with Muscat
flavour aud good appearance, the scale descend-
ing as low as '2, which represents the com-
parative value iu competition of the variety
White Nice. This subject of relative value is
coming rapidly to the frout ; and if it has uot been
dealt with iu the R. H. S. new rules, which I have
not yet seen, I am afraid the amendments will soon
require amending. Another point of the utmost
necessity is to place cards on the exhibits giving the
results in all important contests when pointing is
recommended. Where this is doue, the greatest
interest is manifested, not only by exhibitors, but
by the public generally. I admit that such a
process exposes the judges to criticism in case they
have slipped ; but it also increases his watchfulness
against mistakes. I am afraid there will always bo
" vagaries " of judges ; but if a scheme of relative
value were acted upon, one stumbliug-block at any
rate, would be removed. The cultural merit would
still have to be dealt with, aud a judge is not
worth his salt who cannot determine how far short
of perfection a bunch of Grapes is that has a slight
defect in any respect. I hope to submit iu a future
issue a scale showing the relative value of Grapes,
based on the system mentioned above. Ayrshire
Lad.

OULTON HALL, LEEDS.— A change in the man-
agement of the gardens at the above-named place
has recently occurred. Oultou belongs to the
"Calverley" family, who have been connected
with the West Riding of Yorkshire for a long
period of time. The present owner is John Selwyn
Calverley, Esq. Through the kindness of this
gentleman, Mr. Richard Walker, who has been
gardener at Oultou forty-three years, is retiring
ou a good allowance. During the time he has
been there he has served three generations of the
family. For some years before the finer varieties
of Gloxinias were so generally cultivated as they
now are, Mr. Walker had, by hybridising and selec-
tion, got together a fine strain — iu fact, I believe
he was one of the first gardeners who took the sub-
ject iu baud. He has also possessed for a longtime
excellent strains of his own selection, both of
Cyclamens aud herbaceous Calceolarias. Mr.
Walker was a close reader of the gardening press

Januaby 7, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

IS

and of standard works on horticulture. While
not, perhaps, so well known as some gardeners, he
was all along considered, by those who knew him
personally, an intelligent gardener. Moreover, he
could give reasons for the horticultural faith he put
into general practice. He will carry into his re-
tirement the respect and good wishes of all who
know him. His successor at Oulton is Mr.
McFarlane, for some time past gardener at Staple-
ton Park, Pontefract. It is said the gardens
generally in his new charge are to undergo a
thorough renovatiou, hence the opportunity to put
his well-known practical skill to good account.
H. J. G.

TRAINING TOMATOS SPIRALLY.— Unless due to
a printer's error, which converted "five" into
"tine" [This was so. Eu.], Mr. Mackinlay does
not tell lis on p. 444 how many stakes he used to
each Tomato-plant, but it is evident three or more
must have been employed to form the needed
columnar support. When at Wrest Park two or
three years ago, I saw on the walls a remarkable
crop of Tomatos. If the spirally-trained plants on
stakes in the open ground gave better results last
season, as compared with those grown on walls,
then must the crop have been exceptionally good.
The plan seems to be uovel, and may, when clearly
explained, be widely copied. That bending or
depression of the stems conduces to fruitfulness,
there can be no doubt. Very recently I saw at
Clandou Park a large number of plants growing in
a pit, the stems for some 2A feet in height being
bent into serpentine form, having previously borne
fruit, so as to bring the upper portions of the plants
more immediately under the lights, and each was
carrying a heavy crop that should give plenty of
ripe fruit up to the end of January. A. D.

MANURE AND PLANT ASH.— I read with interest
the report of Mr. A. D. Hall's lecture upon Artifi-
cial Manures reported in the Hardeners' Chronicle
of November 26. It would be more satisfactory
before accepting his statement that "the composi-
tion of the ash of a plant bears no part or relation
to the manure that it needs to be afforded by the
soil," to learn from the results of what experiments
he came to his conclusion. I should like, with your
kind permission, to ask the following questions : —
(1) Was the soil analysed previous to use? (2) Was
a manure used which gave the same analysis as that
of the plant-ash, taking iuto consideration those
constituents in the soil which were found in the
plant-ash 1 (3) Was the soil analysed after the plant
finished growing'.' (4) Was the ash of the plant in
question analysed? In the case of the Grape-vine,
M. Ville, the eminent French chemist, proved that
Grapes could not be grown without potash, and that
without it the plant does not increase in dry weight.
In the case of iron, also, though met with in very
small quantities, it is absolutely necessary for the
formation of chlorophyll, for the leaves of plants
uot supplied with it during their growth become
"chlorotic" as soon as their own store is used up,
and become green again only on the application of
iron. From the statement quoted above, it would
follow that plants would grow alike in all soils
alike, yet how different is the case? The results
of the experiments from which the statement is
made would throw a great deal of light upon the
subject. Geo. W. Allen.

THE LUCOMBE OAK.— The age of the Killerton
specimen, referred to at pp. 416 and 461 of the
last volume, is cousisteut with the account of the
origin of this variety given by John Zephauiah
Holwell in Phil. Tram., Feb. 24, 1773. He says
that the parent tree at Exeter was then seven
years old, when it measured 21 feet in height and
20 inches in girth. A six-years'-old graft from the
original was at that time 23 feet high. He adds :
" Several gentlemen round this neighbourhood
(Exeter), and in the adjoining counties of Corn-
wall and Somerset, have planted them, and they
are found to flourish in all soils." Seeing, then,
that William Lucombe raised it as a seedling in
1766, and had grafted some thousands of it in
1773, when Holwell saw them in the nursery at
St. Thomas, Exeter, it is highly probable that the
Killerton tree is 120 years old at the present time.
A. Hope.

LAPAGERIAS IN THE OPEN AIR.— It may be
interesting to your correspondents, " E. B. L." and
" D. T. F." to know that a plant of Lapageria
rosea, trained on a west wall in a private garden
in West Argyllshire, Scotlaud, waB in 1886 growing

and flowering freely. The plant had been there for
some years, and was unprotected during winter.
As to the colour of flowers, my experience is that
an excess of heat during the flowering season takes
away the rich crimson colour, and makes the
flowers light and transparent. J. A.

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE. — While
perusing the pages of your issue of December 17
last, I was pleased to find an interesting little
notice concerning this plant, writen by Mr. George
Burrows of King's Norton ; also a representation of
the houseful of the plant to be seen in the gardens at
Highbury, Birmingham. Having visited those gar-
dens several times during the blooming period of the
plants, which has already extended over three
months, and bids fair to continue its progress well into
next March, I should like to add a few words to what
has already been said. The glasshouse, figured in
the Gardeners' Chronicle, is 28 feet by 12 feet, span-
roofed, and is one of an extensive range leading out
of the creeper-covered corridor, which last, together
with the interior of each house, represents a floral
panorama of much beauty. The whole of the house
is devoted to the Begonia, with the exception of a
few exotic grasses, Adiantums, and Tradescantia
zebrina multicolor. The plants, to the number of
150, are suspended from the roof, hanging in such a
profusion of bloom as entirely to cover the pots, and
completely hide the roof. Each plant has from 300
to 400 blooms upon the leading shoots. Disposed
among the other plants were to be seen other tine
specimens, whilst beneath the staging creeping-plants
of various species were visible. Mr. Deacon, the
gardener, says that his success with Begonia Lorraine
is due to the regular temperature of the house,
which from the commencement of the blooming
period has been maintained at 60°, and the air
uniformly moist. Mr. Burrows gave as the consti-
tuents of the soil used at Highbury, peat in a cer-
tain ratio, but Mr. Deacon informed me that the
plants are grown in a compost which consists of
yellow loam, silver-sand, and well-decayed leaf-
mould ; it is, nevertheless, satisfactory to know
that Begonia Gloire de Lorraine is not fastidious as
to soil. Waiter B. Child, Acocks Green.

EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS IN THE OPEN.— At
Braymead, near Maidenhead, it may interest my
fellow readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle to know-
that we have here the familiar Blue Gum-tree
planted out in the pleasure-grounds, and standiug
IS feet in height, from seeds sown at the
beginning of the month of January, 1897, grown
on in heat, and planted out the same season.
They have been unprotected ever since the recent
frost that registered here 13J on December 22, which
took no effect on them whatever. I report this, as
Eucalyptus Globulus is considered amongst so
many not so hardy, as we find them here planted
out in exposed positions. [If these Eucalypts are
protected from the coldest winds they are really
hardy in our warmer maritime counties. Ed.] A. P.
Pearce, Braymead Garden".

OUR CROWN WOODLANDS.— On p. 41S of the
last volume of the Gardeners' Chronicle, Mr. H. C.
Walker comments upon what he terms my "attack"
on the management of the State forests, and
objects to a particular passage therein. I think
Mr. Walker will find this latter refers to the
Crown woodlands generally, and not to the Forest
of Dean alone ; but if these woodlands are worked
on a "definite plan of operations," it would be
interesting to learn why the management of the
New Forest differs so widely from that of the
Forest of Dean, and why the "best financial
results " should be the guiding policy in the case
of the latter, and a useless and wasteful method of
conservation in the case of the former. I found
no fault with the " elaborate " working plan for
the Forest of Dean (which Mr. Walker thinks
beyond the comprehension of all but Indian and
Continental foresters) as a mere tabulated statement
of facts and suggestions ; but I am surely justified
in asking why the " few tourists " who frequent
this forest should be denied the same consideration
that the probably equally few tourists in the
New Forest are granted, to the disadvantage of
future generations. The improvement of Crown or
other British woodlands will not be affected by the
wholesale introduction of working plans more or
less made in Germany, but will be brought about,
if at all, by skilful and judicious treatment which
is not bound down by any hard-and-fast line.
Private estate owners will never adopt any working

plan which does not provide for the preservation
of picturesque, timber and game-preserving facilities
in the vicinity of their mansion-houses ; and as the
majority of estate woodlands fall under this proviso,
strictly economic management becomes a difficult
matter, as practical men know too well. A working
plan drawn up for most estates on similar lines to
that formed for the Forest of Dean, would not be
worth more than the paper it was written on, so
far as results were concerned, unless the woods
with which it dealt were maintained for growing
timber alone, which is rarely the case in England.
There is little doubt but that estate woods could
be worked more economically than is the case at
present, and their picturesque features preserved
and improved at the same time, and the Crown
woods might demonstrate this fact with advantage
to British forestry generally, and with no appre-
ciable loss of revenue to the State. A. C. Forbes.

HARICOT BEANS.— Your reference to a prepa-
ration of Haricot Beans on p. 463 of the last
volume of the Gardeners' Chronicle, gives me an
opportunity to say that I wonder these Beans are
not made a much more general article of diet in
English households than appears to be the case.
Some time ago, Mr. N. Sherwood, of Messrs. Hurst
& Sons, Houndsditch, sent me some small white
Beans for cooking, which he designated the small
white Haricot, and which I think may be identical
with the French Bean or Haricot to which the late
Mr. W. B. Booth refers in the Treasury of Botany.
He appears to regard it as the original form of
Phaseolus vulgaris, and he states that it is "of un-
certain origin, probably Asiatic, the most generally
cultivated in Europe and other temperate climes.
Amidst a number of varieties or races, often de-
scribed as species, it may always be known by its
few-flowered peduncles, and by the ovate, striate
bracts at the base of the calyx." The Bean Mr.
Sherwood sent me is very small compared with those
of most of the cultivated varieties, white, and egg-
shaped, approaching the round rather than the
flat form. Largo seeded varieties are also grown
for use in a ripe state, but in all probability
the small is cultivated to a much larger extent than
the former. Kecently Mr. Sherwood has sent me
for testing, three samples of apparently the same
Beau, but grown in different parts of the world.
The smallest sample is of Canadian growth ; the
next, a little larger in size, is Dutch ; and the
largest sample, which more nearly approaches the
kidney shape, is Galician. These samples will be
tested to discover if there is any difference in their
quality ; the difference in their size is probably
owing to the climate in which they were grown.
Haricot, as I take it, means a Bean in a dry state.
[What about Haricots verts. Ed.] It is said this
small white Bean is much esteemed in France for
field-culture, especially in the western districts,
where it is often distiu- guished by the name of
Favette, or little Bean. The pods are long, cylin-
drical, and well-filled with seeds, and, when ripe,
are, as grown in France, about three-eighths of an
inch in diameter, and nearly round, and rather
swollen than sunk in the eye ; medium early, but uot.
well adapted for using in a green state, by reason
of the inner skin of the pods being more tough
than in most of the others. The difference in the
diameter of the samples sent, which Mr. Sherwood
thinks represent the same variety, are no doubt
owing to climatal conditions. Two methods have
been tried in my household in the cooking of these
Beans. One has been to soak them in water all
night, and put them in boiling water to render
them fit for table. The other is to put them into
cold water in a saucepan, and allow the water to
steadily rise to boiling point. The Beans require
to be well boiled, and then they constitute a
delicious table - vegetable, served without any
accompaniment. Your recipe suggests one way of
serving up Haricot Beans in a manner more attrac-
tive to the palate. I prefer these Beans to blue-
boiling Peas, as I find them to be more tender,
delicate, and palatable. R. D.

LARGER EXHIBITS REQUIRED AT OUR FLOWER
SHOW8. — The time for compiling schedules will
be on us immediately, therefore, before it is too
late, I venture to offer a few suggestions which, if
carried out, would, I venture to assert, be im-
provements in the matter of exhibiting. Where I
should like to see improvement is in the fruit and
vegetable classes, these not being represented in
sufficient quantity in individual exhibits. Take,
for example, a prize given for fifty pods of Peas or

14

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Jahvart 7, 1899.

Beaus ; this cannot be regarded as sufficient to
represent the exhibitor's ability — it should be
not less than 120 of each. Onions and Potatos are
generally shown in dozens ; now these could be
increased to 1A dozeu, and so on with Tomatos,
Turnips, Carrots. Celery, Cabbage, and Cauli-
flowers are generally shown in threes ; no fewer
than four or six heads should be shown. Bush-
fruit of all kinds is often shown in very small
quantities, and I would recommend that plates not
less than S inches in diameter for holding these
fruits, so as to secure larger exhibits. In the
case of single dishes of Apples, Pears, Plums.
&e. , I consider that not fewer thau nine or twelve
fruits should be shown. Now, in order to compen-
sate the exhibitor, or rather encourage exhibition,
all prizes should be increased in proportion, to the
- evident improvement of the displays at our horti-
cultural shows. A.J. L., W yf old Court.

BEES. — In the issue of the Gardniers' Chronicle
for Dec. 17, "Expert," the contributor of articles
on the Apiary, seems to invite criticism, and if
you can afford space I would like to say a few
words upon the subject, the ventilation of bee-
hives. In ventilating, he says, " some advocate
front blocks of wedge shape, and others favour
front and rear spaces," &c. All these methods are
applicable only to hives furnished with loose bot-

: toms, and a hive without that is of very little good —
in fact, you will scarcely find them in the market.
Plenty of bottom-ventilation, when the bees show
signs of being crowded, is one of the principal
methods used to prevent swarming. The hives
may be wedged in front, or at the four corners, &c,
but a better way which is beginning to come to the
front, is to have a hole, about 6 inches or more, cut
in the floor- board of the hive, and to tack a piece of
perforated zinc on the upper side ; underneath is a
sliding board to regulate the ventilation as required.
Regarding the question, why bees wipe their eyes
with their fore legs. If we examine or watch

i our bees more closely, we can soon discover
that it is their antennas they wipe, not their
eyes. I will try and explain it as plainly
as possible. On the fore-legs of a bee, at the
lower end of the tibia or shank is a spine, to which
is attached a sail. In the upper end, and inner side
of the palma or lower joiut, is a deep incision, the
edges of which are covered with hairs. Upon this
the spine and sail of the bee can act at the will of
the insect, and when the spine is brought down they
form a circle. If the bee wishes to clean its antennas,
it lays it within this circle, the hairs removing any
foreign substance. They very often give them a
wipe before flying from the hive, the autentue or
feelers of the right side being cleaned by the
device on the left leg. /. Guthrie, Bee Expert;
Doonfoet, Ayr.

CURIOSITIES OP ORCHID

BREEDING.

Orchid hybrids have become very numerous,
while new ones are constantly being brought to light.
Up to the year 1860; we find but four flowered
hybrids recorded, raised from distinct crosses ;
during the thirty years following the numbers
gradually increased, until in 1890 there were about
200 enumerated. But it is in the present decade
that the most rapid strides have beeu made, the
numbers having increased by leaps and bounds,
until at the present time there are on record no less
than 800 Orchid hybrids, raised by hand from dis-
tinct crosses. These have all flowered in gardens,
and have been duly described or recorded in various
journals. And when we remember that many of
these 800 crosses have been repeated in the same
garden, and in other gardens, and that many indi-
vidual plants may have been obtained from each
capsule, we cau form an idea of the large numbers
of hybrid Orchids that have been raised by hand.

Primary Hybrids.

Of the 800 hybrids from distinct crosses now on
record, some 500 are primary, i.e., hybrids of the
first generation between two different species. A
careful examination of these primary hybrids shows
that, as a rule, they are fairly intermediate bet ween
their parents, partaking of the characters of both,
anil at the same time perfectly distinct from either.
Tlie latter fact is most remarkal.il*, and at once

serves to distinguish primary hybrids clearly from
all other hybrids. For example, Cypripedium
X Leoauum is a typical primary hybrid, and has
perhaps been raised more frequently and in larger
numbers than any other Orchid hybrid. It was
obtained originally by crossing C. insigne (Wal-
lich), !j> , with C. Spicerianum (B-chb. f. ), 6, both
well marked and distinct species. The hybrid is
fairly intermediate both in its outward characters
and in its inner structure (see Prof. Macfarlaue on
"Minute Structure of Plant Hybrids," Trail*.
Roy. Soc. Eiliii., 1S91, xxvii., p. 245), and although
it has innumerable minor and individual varieties,
yet it is always perfectly distinct from both of its
parents.

Nor has any intrinsic difference been observed
in the reciprocal cross, tie same forms appearing
equally in the obverse and reverse crosses. Often
many varieties are obtained from the same capsule,
differing slightly in colour, form and size, but all
are specifically 0. x Leeauum, and cannot be mis-
taken for anything else. As it is with C. x Lee-
anum, so it is with other primary Orchid hybrids,
so far as experiments have been made. In short,
we find that primary hybrids are, as a rule, so inter-
mediate between their parent species, and so com-
paratively uniform in character, that they are
specifically distinct from both parents.

Generic Hybrids.

Of the 500 primary hybrids on record, about 100
are generic hybrids, i.e., the parents belonging to
different genera. In this respect alone these
hybrids are interesting, though no doubt the
systematic botanist views them with mixed feelings.
It is not so long since generic hybrids were looked
upon as anomalies, some of the older naturalists
even regarding them as impossible, and forthwith
proceeded to beg the whole question by classing
those genera which were fertile with one another as
species of oue. Orchid-growers, at all events, have
almost ceased to regard generic hybrids with
curiosity, familiarity with them having bred a
certain amount of indifference.

A list of the generic hybrids on record up to the
end of 1897, together with a diagram showing how
twenty-six different genera have beeu linked to-
gether by artificial hybridisation, has been prepared
by the writer, and was published iu the Journal of
the Royal Rorlicidturtd Society (vol. xxi., April,
1898), and to which those interested in the details
of generic Orchid hybrids may be referred.

Generally speaking, primary generic hybrids
follow the rule of specific hybrids in bearing the
intermediate characters of their parents, with a
narrow range of variation.

But there are a few remarkable exceptions to
this rule : —

1. Epiphronitis x Veitchi, a hybrid out of

Sophronitis grandiflora (Lindl. ) by Epidendrum
radicans (Pav.).

2. Epi-Cattleya x matutina, a hybrid out of
Cattleya Bowringiana (Veitch) by Epidendrum
radicans (Pav.).

3. Epi-Laslia x radico-purpurata, a hybrid out of
Lselia purpurata (Lindl.) by Epidendrum radicans
(Pav.).

4. Epi-L:elia :■: Charlesworthi, a hybrid out of
La=lia cinnabariua (Lindl.) by Epidendrum radicans
(Pav.).

These four generic hybrids are very curious
indeed, inasmuch as all agree in reproducing the
generic characters only of thejpolleu parent, Epiden-
drum ; without the slightest trace of the peculiar
structure of the seed-parents, Sophronitis, Cattleya,
and Ladia. Yet in minor characters, in colour,
form, and size, the four hybrids distinctly differ
from one another, and from their Epidendrum
parent.

A close examination reveals the fact that these
minor differences correspond with the peculiar
differences in the parentage, thus showing that the
crosses have really been effected ; yet at the same
time it must be candidly admitted 'that did we not
know the parentage, we could never have deter-

mined it, so overwhelming is the influence of the
predominant partner, Epidendrum radicans. It
will, no doubt, be observed that E. radicans is the
pollen parent in each of the above cases. Curiously
enough, when this reed-like E. radicans is crossed
with the pseudo-bulbous E. vitellinum (Lindl.), $ ,
a similar result is obtained, the offspring E. x
radico - vitellinum being scarcely distinguishable
from the reed-like E. radicans. Again, when the
reed-like E. x O'Brienianum — itself a hybrid out
of E. cvectum (Hook. f. ) by E. radicans — is crossed
with the pseudo-bulbous E. vitellinum, ?, a similar
result is obtained, the offspring being reed-like in
habit as iu the pollen parent. Yet when the reed-
like E. radicans is crossed with other reed-like
species of Epidendrum, and again when the pseudo-
bulbous species of Epidendrum are crossed with
species of Laslia, in every case normal hybrids are
produced intermediate between their parents.

So far as experiments have been made, it seems
quite clear that (1) the species of Cattleya, Lselia,
Sophronitis, and the pseudo-bulbous species of
Epidendrum, when intercrossed, produce normal
hybrids intermediate in character.

(2) The same result is obtained when the reed-
like species of Epidendrum are united with one
another.

(3) But when the reed-like species of Epiden-
drum are united with the pseudo-bulbous species
of Epidendrum, or with species of Cattleya, Ladia,
and Sophronitis, abnormal hybrids are produced,
having the essential characters of the reed-like
Epidendra. From these facts it might easily be
argued that a reed-like Epidendrum was the
ancestor uot only of the pseudo-bulbous Epideudra,
but also of the more highly specialised genera
Cattleya, Lselia, and Sophronitis. In that case the
pseudo-bulbous Epidendra would form an interest-
ing connecting-link between the lowly reed-like
Epideudra and the gorgeous aristocratic Cattleya
and Lselia. C. C. Jlitrit, in "Nature."

(Tii be continued.)

Obituary.

The Late Mr. Paul Lutz.— This well-
known Wolverhampton gentleman died at his
residence, Newbridge Cottage, on the 30th of last
month, after a brief illness, in his 69th year. Mr.
Lutz, who was a German by birth, was a natu-
ralised Englishman. He came to this country
nearly fifty years ago, and entered the service of
Messrs. John Moreton & Co., of Wolverhampton,
rising by degrees in their esteem and confidence
until he became trustee for the late Mr. Moreton,
and confidential manager of the business carried
on by the firm. Mr. Lutz was known far
and wide as a devoted amateur florist, his
special flowers being Pansies, Violas, and Roses.
He was ever ready and generous with his support
to horticultural societies. For a time he was
chairman of the Floral Committee of the Wolver-
hampton Floral Fete, and during his term of office
gave handsome prizes for Violas and Pansies. Mr.
Lutz's floral friends were men like the late Mr. Win.
Dean, of Birmingham, and Mr. James Dobbie, of
Rothesay. Mr. Lutz and his wife spent their
holidays at Bothesay last summer, staying with
Mr. hobbie, where doubtless their battles were
" fought o'er again " around the social board. Mr.
"Lutz, who had a keen artistic faculty, was the
possessor of a fine collection of paintings, embracing
examples by Geo. Moreland, Landseer, Lawrence,
and others ; and the Wolverhampton Art Gallery
is enriched by a fine picture presented by him.

Trade Notice.

Messrs. T. Methvex & Sons, nurserymen, 15,
Princes Street and Leith Walk, Edinburgh, request
Us to announce the fact that, iu order to meet the
increasing demands on their nursery department,
they have acquired the lease of theBaugholm Nur-
series (so long in the occupation of the well-known
firm of Peter Lawson & Son), and will be in a
position to offer all kiuds of nursery stock.

Jaxi-a*y 7, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

15

[The term "accumulated temperature " indicates 1 he aggregate
amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees— a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

IU.NFAU.. B«[

CHT
N.

.

It?

Accumulated.

9

CO 1 as
OS ~

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^M

a

^ 'G ■ ^ ~.

01

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M CIO

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posuble

the Wee
possible
ran. 2, 1

p

or; 4)

■5 9 «

2, 5) >,

'-3 g H*

-a,

gSI?

H <-

'in 1 o> £ i ^

£ fllf:

o a
o a>

3s

o

"3
pq

« ° c

Hi

4i ■"=

as

o

a

d

<s

H

H C^ C-

Day-

Day-

Day-

Day-

lOths

1

deg.

'leg.

deg.

deg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

2 +

8

29

+ 80S - 287

9 +

262

66-7 14

28

1

2 +

7

34

! 255 - 300

i +

204

30'4 9

30

9

3 +

11

24

+ 388 - 807

4 +

it.;

22-4 13

29

B

4 +

IS

29

+ 33S - 320

3 +

1 56

20-3 27

35

4

4 +

14

2tj

4- 2S2 - 339

V +

162

21 -s IS

32

0

5 +

29

9

+ 431 - 349

7 +

100

21-9 19

36

6

4 +

•23

10

366

- 314

9 +

228

46-7 15

80

7

4 +

24

s

+ 442

- 330

8 4-

202

31-3 12

33

8

fl +

:;4

4

|- 465 - 220

13 +

188

3.V7 23

39

0

S +

28

10

| 386 - 260

5 +

240

88-8 24

29

10

4 +

30

2

ilO]— 214

9 +

203

89-6 28

34

t

a !

an

0

+ 662 - 116

11 +

2U.S

28-3 24
1

4'1

The districts indicated by number in the first column are
the following : —

0. Scotland, N. Principal Wheat^prodncinQ Districts—
1, Scotland, E. : 2, England, N.E. ; 3, England, E. :
4, Midland Counties ; 5, England, Including London, s.
Principal Grazing, >(>■., Districts <"•. Scotland, w. ;
7, England, N.W. ; S, England. S.W. ; 0, 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 December 31, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office :—

,( The weather during this period was extremely changeable.
Much rain fell over the kingdom generally— especially in the
west and north — but several fine bright intervals were ex-
perienced over Ireland and the greater part of England.

"The t< mpenttuir continued above the mean, the excess
varying from 2° in 'Scotland, X. and E.,' to 4° or 05 in most
other districts. The highest of the maxima were recorded
during the earlier days of the week, and ranged from 573 in
'Scotland, E.,' 'England, N.W.,' and ' Ireland, S.,' to 53° in
' Scotland, N.' The lowest of the minima which were registered
on the 31st. ranged from 10° in 'Scotland, E.' (at Braemar),
22° in 'Scotland, N.' and ' England, N.E.,' and 23° in 'Scot-
land, W.1 and the ' Midland Counties,' to 29° in ' Ireland, S.,*
and to 30° in the ' Channel Islands.'

"The rainfall exceeded the mean in all districts, the excess
being considerable generally, and especially so in the west .

"The bright sunshine was rather in excess of the mean in
most districts, the percentage of the possible duration ranging ■
from 27 in 'England, E.,' and 23 or 24 in Ireland and England,
S.W., to 12 in 'England, N.W.,' and to 9 in 'Scotland, E. ''

WEATHER IN 1898. — A summary of tempera-
ture, rainfall, and duration of .bright sunshine in the
United Kingdom has been issued by the Meteoro-
logical Office, showing the accumulated results for
the fifty-two weeks ending December 31. The
temperature for the year was everywhere largely
in excess of the average, the mean for the whole
period being about 2° higher than usual. The
excess of temperature was fairly similar over the
whole country. The aggregate rainfall results
differed materially in different districts. In the
north of Scotland, where the total rainfall was
G6'7 in., there was an excess of 16'2 in., and rain
fell on 262 days, which is seventeen more than
usual. There was a slight excess of rain over the
whole of Ireland, the greatest excess being 0'5 in.
in the south. There was a deficiency of rain over

the whole of England, and in the east and west of
Scotland. The greatest deficiency for the year was
7 'Ginches in the south of England, where the total fall
for the year was 21 '9 in. In the Midland counties
the excess was 6'7 in., in the east of England 6 in.,
and in the Channel Islands 5'8 in. There was an
excess of sunshine in the north and west of our
islands, but generally a slight deficiency in the
south and east. At Greenwich the total rainfall
for the year was 18'78 in., which is 5'78 in. less
than the average for the previous fifty years. May,
October, November, and December, were the only
months with an excess of rain. The mean tempe-
rature for the year was ~r2°, which is 2° above the
average. Every montli was warm except March,
May, and June. The temperature ranged from
92° in September to 26° in February.

Vegetables.— Avebace Wholesale Prices.

ARKETS.

C0VENT GARDEN, JANUARY 5.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished: to us 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.]

Plants in Pots, Avebaoe Wholesale Pricks.

Arbor Vitae, p. doz. 12
Aspidistras, p. doz. 18

— specimen, each '■•
Drachmas, various,

per doz 12

— viridis, p. doz. 9
Euonymns, various,

per dozen ... 6

Evergreens, in var.,

per dozen ... 6

Ferns, in variety,

per dozen

d. .<. d.
0-36 0
0-36 0
0-10 0 I

r, d. 9, d.

Ferns, small, per
100 4 0-

Ficus elastica, each 1 0-

Knliage plants, var.,

2 0-30 0 each

0 0-18 o Lycopodiums, doz,

.Marguerites Daisy,
r, 0-18 0 per dozen

Myrtles, per doz.,.. ti 0

ti 0-24 0 Palms, various, ea. 1 0

— specimens, ea. l'I 0

4 0-12 0 Scarlets, per doz. 4 0

1 n-
3 0-

6 0-

6 ii

5 0

5 0
4 0

8 0

0 (i

16 0

03 0

6 0

Ci'T Flowers.— Averaoe Wholesale Prices.

s. d. t. "'.

Arum Lilies, dozen

bloomH 6

Asparagus Fern.bun. 2
azalea, white, 12 t>ms. I
BouvardiaSjperbun. 0
Carnations, per doz.

blooms ... ... 2

EWharis, per dozen -.'
Gardenias, per doz. 2
Hyacinths, Roman,

per doz. bunches 0
Lilium longiflorum,

per dozen ... 6

Lily of the Valley,

dozen sprays ... l
Marguerites, 12 bun. ti
Maidenhair Fern.

per doz. bunches 6

0- 8
0- 3
0 I
6 0

0- 3

i; t
0- S

0- 8

0 9

i'.- 2
0- S

Narcissus, White, p.

dozen bunches ...
OrchidB,doz.bloorns
Pelargoniums, do/.

bunches ...

— scarlet, per doz.
bunches

Pink Roses, per

dozen

Hoses (indoor), doz.

— Tea, white, doz,

— Perle, per doz.

— Safrano, p. doz.
Smilax, per bunch
Tuberoses, 12 blms.
Violets, per dozen

bunches

— Parma, bunch

$, d. t. d.

0-4 0
0-12 11

l 0- i» 0
i 0-10 n

0-6 0

6- 2 0

0-4 0

0-2 0

<-.- 2 0

0-3 0

0- 1 6

0-2 0

0- 6 0

Frl'IT.— Averai-.e Wholesale PkiCES.

Apples, King, per
bushel

— Golden Knobs,

bushel

— Wellingtons,

bushel

— Sourings, per

bushel

— Blenheims, per

bushel

— Large cookers,

per bushel ...

— French, Rene-

sette Gris,
good, cases...

— Nova Scotia,

Baldwins,
(i reenings,
Gold Russets,
Kings, and
other sorts,
per barrel ...

— Californian,

New Towns,
Fancy Reds,
&c, per ease

— Canadians, vari-

ous sorts,
Baldwin, Ben
Davis, Green-
ings, &c, per
barrel

Bananas, bunch ...

Chestnuts, various,
.per bag

(/. s. d.
6-6 0
0-5 0
0- s 0
0-5 0
0-6 0
0- 4 0

1 0 —

0-2o 0

0-9 0

4 6-12 0

Cobnuts, per 100 lb. 40

Cranberries, Ameri-
can, box ... 12

— Russian kegs .. 1
Custard-AppleSjdoz. 8
Grapes, English,

Alicante, lb. ... 1

— Gros Colmar ... 1

— Muscats, per lb. 2

— Almeira, doz.

lb 6

Lemons, per case... 7

— Messina, 360 ... 10
Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 lb. .. 1
Oranges, Jana,cnses 0

— Denia, case, 240 4
.Mandarin, pkt.

of 10 boxes... 5

— Valencia ... 7

— Teneriflfe, case 5

— Tangierine, box

of25 0

- — box of 108 4
Pears, Californian ,
Easter Benrre,
case, 108 ... 24

— Catiilac, French,

crates(av^cord-
ing to num-
ber, &e.) ... 7
Pines, each... . . 2
Walnuts, kiln-dried,

Naples, ewt. ... 34
bag 7

(/. 8. d.

0-45 0

0 —
9 —
0-12 0

0- 1 6
3-19

0-3 0

0 —
6-15 0
6 —

6-11 0
6 —

0 —
6-15 0
0-6 0

0-15 0
0- 5 u

Potato h.
Beauties, Saxons, Giants, Up-to-Date, Ac, according to
sample, rtO.*. to 80*. per ton ; ©unbar Main Crops, DO?, fob
Hotb, 32 and 34, WetHngton S reel. Content thinfm,

s. d. s. d. I 8, d. s. d.

I Leeks, doz. bunch. 16-20

2 6-30 Lettuce, Cabbage,
per doz. ... 10- 1 3

1 ij- 2 0 Mint, new, forced,

per doz. bunch. 4 0-50

3 6-4 0 Mushrooms, house,
0 6 0 10 per lb 0 6-08

English, per 100 6 6- 7 6 Onions, Albanians,
ins. Dwfs., Chan- bags . 6 0

Artichokes, Globe,

per doz.
*— Jerusalem, per

sieve

Asparagus, Paris,

green

— Sprue

— Englisl
Beans, Dwfs.TChan

nel Islands, lb. 13-16

— Madeira, bkt. 2 0-30
Beetroots, per

dozen 0 6-09

— bushel 2 11 —

Brussels Sprouts,

per sieve ... 16-26

— per bushel ... 3 0- 4 0
Brussels tops, bush. 10-13
Cabbage, doz. ... 10-10

— Coleworts, per
bushel 2 0 —

— Savoys, p. doz. 1 3- 2 0

— — per tally ... 6 0- 0 0
Cardopns, each ... 0 9- l 0
Cauliflowers, Eng-
lish, per dozen 1 ii- 2 6

0-10 0

— per tally

— Italian, baskets

Of 18

Celeriac, per dozen

Carrots, washed, in

bags, tine

— unwashed

— Surrey, bunchs.
Celery, Red, dozen

bundles

— unwashed
Chicory, per lb. ...
Cress, doz. punnets ] t>
Cucumbers, per

dozen

Endive, French, per

dozen ..
Gallic, per lb.
Horseradish, New

Englishjbundle

— — loose per
doz., fine

— foreign, per
bundle

4 6 —

2 0 —

3 0-36
2 n -
2 0- 2 6

8 0-16 0
6 0-90

0 8 0 4

2 0 —

o ;: -

2 0-26
2 0 —

13 —

bags

— Dutch, per bag 4 6-50

— English, cwt... 5 0- 6 6

— Valencia, cases s >'■> —

— picklers,in bags 2 <'■ - -

— — in sieve ... 2 6 -
Parsley, per dozen 1 ti- 2 6

— sieve 1 0 —

Parsnips, per dozen 0 6- 0 9

— cwt. bags ... 3 0 —
Potatos, Hebrons,

Snowdrops, Up-
to-Date,&c.,per
ton ,i"0 o-SO 0

— New, Algerine

Kidneys, lb. 0 2j

— — Frame, lb. 0 5- 0 6

— — Teneritfe,

per cwt. ... 18 0 -
Radishes, Round,

breakfast, per

dozen bunches 1 0 —
Rhubarb, York, per

doz. bundles ...
Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen 1 3 -
Scotch Kale, per

bushel 2 6 —

Seakale, per dozen

punnets ... 12 0-18 0

Shallots, per cwt.... 8 0-10 0
Spinach, per bushel 5 0

— French, crates 3 6- 4 •;
Tomatos, English,

per lb

— Canary, boxes
Turnips, Eng., per

doz. bunches ...

— in bags

Turnip-Tops, bag ...
Watercress, p. doz.

bunches

1 6-2 0

0 4-0 5
2 0-^2 6

2 0- 3 0

2 0 —
2 0-26

0 3-06

Remarks.— In last report Walnuts should have read cwt.
(not half). On Saturday last all varieties of green vegetables

were in demand, and good prices were realised. Mushrooms
were easier in price. Leaves of Galax aphylla are being im-
ported from America. The supplies of Yorkshire Rhubarb
are increasing, but only the very best samples fetch 2»\ per
dozen.

SEEDS.

London: January 4.— Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, Seed
Merchants, of Great Haze Pond, Borough, London, S.E.
write that, notwithstanding the fact that to-day's seed market
was poorly attended, with but little business passing thereon,
an increased inquiry for Grass and Clover seeds is shortly
anticipated. Meantime, stocks and prices are as previously
noted, alike moderate. Rye continues scarce, and is wanted.
Some new Kcenigsburg spring Tares have just arrived. The
trade for bird seeds presents no tresh feature. As regard
Peas, Haricots, and Lentils, the absence of severe weather
naturally restricts the sale. Linseed favours sellers.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.
Qlasoow: January 4. — The billowing are the averages
of the prices recorded since our last report: — Lemons,
Is. <'■<!. to 2s. per dozen; Chestnuts, 4d. per pound; Cob
nuts, 4-/. to 8d do.; Prunes, Qd. to 8d\ do.; Apples,
per barrel, Canadian Spies, 185. do. ; Western States'
Russets, 30*. do.; Oranges, Jaffa, 9s, 6d. to lis. per case;
Pears, 12s. to 18s, per cwt, ; Tomatos, Guernsey, 4a*. to 8c/. per
lb. ; do., Scotch, jd. do. ; Grapes, home, Is. t>> 4s. do. : do.,
foreign, 6d. do. ; Cabbages, Od. to Is. 2d. per dozen ; Cauli-
flowers, Is. Gd. to 2s. 6rf. do. ; Parsnips, 3s. 6d. per cwt. ;
Herbs, Id. to 2d, per bunch; Leeks, Is. 6d. to 2s. 6d. per
dozen bunches ; Mint, green, 6d. to 9rf. per bunch; Onions.
5s. 6d. per cwt. ; ditto, 6s. toTs. per ease; Parsley, Is. to Is. 6rf.
per stone ; Potatos, 5d. to 6d. do. ; Carrots, 2s. to 3s. Bd. per
cwt. ; Artichokes, Is. 6o*.perstone ; Cucumbers, Qd. to Is. each ;
Lettuce, round, Is. 3d. per dozen; Horseradish, 2s. per
bundle; Mushrooms, lOd. to Is. 3d. per lb. ; Beetroots, 6rf. to
7d. per dozen ; Brussels Sprouts, Is. to 1?. 6d, per stone;
Turnips, Is. to Is. 2d. per bag; do., large white, 3s. per
dozen ; Savoys, 9d. to Is. 6d. per dozen ; late Cabbages, 9d. to
Is. per dozen.

Liverpool: January 4. — Wholesale, Vegetable- Market: —
Potatos, per cwt., Giants, 2s. to 2s. 4d. ; Main Crop, 2s. tid. to
3s. ; Bruce, 2s. 2d. to 2s. 8d. ; Turnips, t5d. to lOd. per dozen
bunches ; do. Swedes, Is. 2d* to Is. id. per cwt. ; Carrots,
2s. 3d. to 3s. 3d. do. ; Paisley, Hd. to lOd. per dozen bunches ;
Onions, English, 5s. to 6s. per cwt. ; do., foreign, 4s. 3d. to
4s. Od. do. ; Cauliflowers, Is. 3d. to 2s. Bd. per dozen ; Cab-
bages, Sd. to lOd. do. ; Celery, 8d. to Is. Bd. do. St. John's:—
Potatos, lOd. to Is. per peck ; Grapes, home, 2s. 66". per lb. ;
do., foreign, 6d. to Sd. do. ; Pines, English, 5s. to 6s. each ;
Cucumbers, Is. 6d. each ; Mushrooms, Is. per lb., and basket.
Bh'kenhead .■—Potato's, 8d. to lOd. per peck; Filberts. lOd.
per lb. ; Grapes, home, Is. 6d. to 3s. Gd. do. ; do., foreign,
6d. to lOd. do. ; Pines, English, 5s. *to 10s. 6rf. each ; do.,
foreign, 3s. to Ss. do. ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. Bd. per lb.

16

THE CUFDENEFS' CHFONICLE.

[January 7, 1899.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the
week ending December 31, and for the corresponding period of
1897, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

Description.

1897.

1898.

Difference.

Wheat

Barley ..

Oats

s. d.
34 6

27 3

17 1

s. rf.

20 11

28 4

17 ()

.<. tl.

+ 1 7-
- 0 1

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. J. Macfarlane, f<>v the past six years Gardener at

Stapleton Park, Pcmtefract, as Gardener to J. S. Calver-

ley, Esq., Oulton Hall, Leeds.
Mr. Thos. Pilcher, until recently Head Gardener at H<>1-

burnugh * Court, Snndland, Kent, as Head Gardener t«>

F. D. Brockman, Esq., J. P., of Beachborough Park,

Hythe, Kent.
Mr. G. Frost, as Gardener to the Earl of Zetland, ITpleathahij

Marske-by-the Sea, Yorkshire.
Mr. W. C. Lewis, f Fruit Foreman, Mentmore, Leighton

Buzzard, as Gardener to D. G. Landale, Esq., Limpsfleld

Grange, Limpsfield, Surrey.
Mr. James Masterson, late Gardener to James Smith\vk:k,

Esq., Kilereen House, Kilkenny, as Gardener to James

Cassidy, Esq., J. P., Togher House, Monasterevan.
Mr. Charles Masson, late Ganlener and .Steward to Colonel

Cooper, D.L., Dnnboden, Mullingar, as Head Gardi-ner

to E. J. Beaumont Nesbttt, Esq., D.L., Tubberdaly,

Edenderry, King's eo.
Mr. G. H. Clack, previously Head Gardener at Bear-hen Cliff

House, Bath, as Head Gardener to B. Winthrope, Esq.,

Barton Court, Hungerford, Berks.
Mr. James Prentice, formerly Foreman at Gifford House,

Roehampton, as Head Gardener to J. D. Charrington,

Esq., at same place.
Mr. William Milne, from Drumlanrig Gardens, Thornhill,

N.B., as Head Gardener to S. B. Almond, Esq., Standish

Hall, Wigan, Lancashire.
Mr. T. Thrton, for twenty years Head Gardener at Maiden

Erlegh, Reading, as Head Gardener to J. K. D. Wing-
, field Digby, Esq., M.P., Sherborne Castle, Sherborne,

Dorset.
Mr. E. Bryant, for the past six years Head Gardener at The

Manor House, Tarrant Gunville, Blandford, as Head

Gardener to Colonel Pakry Otheden, Turnworth,

Blandfcrd.
Mr. Thomas Edington has been engaged by Lord Ducik

aa Head Gardener, in succession to Thomas SrtiNGLEs,

deceased.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

H. Kenkel, Darmstadt— Plants, including Orchids.

Fisher, Son, &' Sibhay, Ltd., Royal Nurseries, Handsworth,
Sheffield— Seeds, <tc.

David W. Thomson, 24, Frederick Street, Edinburgh-
Seeds, &c.

Vilmorin-Andrievx & Co., 4, Quai de la Megisserie, Paris-
Wholesale List of Novelties in Flowering Plants, Vege-
tables, and Grains.

Wu. Paul cSi Son, Waltham Cross, Herts— Seeds, &c.

H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent — Chrysanthemums.

Dicksons & Co., 1, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh— Seeds, tie.

Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, N.B.— Seeds, &e.

T. Methven & SONS, 15, Princess Street, and Leith Walk.
Edinburgh— Seeds, &c.

Edmondson Brothers, Dublin— Seeds, &c.

Cahter, Paqe& Co., 52 and 5:i, London Wall, EC— Seeds,
Plants, Roses, Trees, &c.

F. Urqohart & Co., 11, Union Street, Inverness— Seeds, &e.

Chas. Turner, The Royal Nurseries. Slough— Seeds.

W. Bull, New and Rare Plant Establishment, King's Road,
Chelsea — Seeds.

Robt. Veitch & Son, 54, High Street, Exeter-Seeds.

Kelway & Son, Langport, Somerset— Wholesale List of
Seeds.

Wm. Clibran & Son, 10 and 12, Market Street, Manchester-
Seeds.

E. P. Dixon & Son, Hull— Seeds, &c.

Armitaoe Bros., Ltd., High Street, Nottingham, Seeds, Ac.

Fredk. Gee, Riverford House, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire
Seeds, &t

J<r
•ejpondent

Agricultural Rating Act : Market Gardener
It can be obtained for a few pence of Messrs. Eyre
ai Spottiswoode, East Harding St., London, E.C.

Bedding Pelargoniums : Novice. Where many
plants are required, boxes measuring 12 x 36 ;■:

3 inches are used, instead of potting each plant
separately, the plants being set in these boxes at

4 inches apart. Scarcely any more drainage is
required than some rough fibry soil, half-decayed
leaves, or the like, the bottom being made of
thick laths or with augur holes half-an-inch in

diameter. These boxes may be used for autumn
and early spriug-struck cuttings; late spring-
struck cuttings are better for being potted in
(iO's. If the plants are to bloom early, one
stopping in February or early in March will
suffice. If you wish to increase your stock of
plants, put the boxes, or some of them, in mild
heat — 58° to 60° by night — in late January, and
take the tops 3 inches in length in about 20 days
afterwards. If no increase is looked for, keep the
boxes in the greenhouse till April and then place
them in cold frames.

Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, &c. : J. Ii. There
have been numerous notices of this plant in the
Cfardeners' Chronicle.. The plant is very com-
monly grown now in gardens and nurseries. The
parents of the variety are B. socotrana and B.
Dregei. See "New Plants," in Gar'd. C/n-on.,
January 21, 1893, p. 68. This was the first
notice.

Books : S. P. Babington's British Botany is
published by J. van Voorst, Paternoster Row.
We believe a new edition is in preparation. Dr.
Vines has lately issued an Elementary Text-
book, which is published by Swan, Sonnenschein
& Co.— " Shrubs : A. D. Webster. Hardy Or-
namental Flowering' Trees and Shrubs, published
at 1, Clements' Inn, Strand, W.C.— G. H.
Observations on the Cultivation of Hoses in Pots,
by W. Paul. Published by Simpkin, Marshall,
Hamilton, Kent & Co., 23, Paternoster Row.
— The Rosarian's Year-Bool' for 1898, published
by Bemrose & Sons, Ltd., 23, Old Bailey, will
afford the report of the National Rose Society's
Conference, &c.

Chrysanthemums for Exhibition : W. C. Any
such list must be more or less an arbitrary one.
It is impossible to make up your mind in January
what varieties you will exhibit in November, as
certain sorts do not succeed in certain seasons,
and the cultivator must necessarily possess him-
self of a greater number of varieties than he
intends to exhibit. On p. 410 of our last volume,
a list of the most popular varieties at the leading
shows in November last was given by Mr. C. H.
Payne. With such a collection as that, and by
adding a few of the recent novelties, you will be
as well prepared as possible. Of the new ones,
Geueral Paquie, Reginald Godfrey, H. J. Jones,
Mrs. White Popham, R. Hooper Pearson, Chats-
worth, Lord Ludlow, John Pockett, Mrs. Bark-
ley, W. Carsham, Swanley Giant, Hanwell Glory,
M. Fatzer, Madeline Davis, Mr. F. Carrington,
Kathleen Rogers, and Miss Nellie Pockett, are
all good ones.

" Creeper" with Scale. — The shrub is probably
a Ceanothus. The X L was probably used too
strong ; it has killed the leaves, but not in every
case destroyed the insect, which is not surprising,
as it lives beneath a shield-like scale, which
prevents the vapour from reaching the insect.
Cut away all the lateral shoots, and burn them.
Then dress the stem as you would do for a Vine,
or if the scale is not very abundant, touch each
one with a camel's-hair pencil dipped in methy-
lated spirit.

Cyclamens : Nemo. The plants should be sepa-
rated into their several colours, placing these in
different houses. If crossing is practised it
should be carefully done artificially with a camel-
hair pencil, as a means of carrying the pollen .
from the anthers of the male flower to the
intended seed-bearer. Not more than half-a-
dozen seed-vessels should be allowed to remain
on any one plant, and these should be allowed to
droop and bury themselves naturally in the soil.
The plants should not be unduly weakened by
carrying a great number of blooms, but reduce
the number. The setting of the (lowers may
begin when the days are a little longer — say, in
February.

Fruit-trees Trained Against a Wooden Fence
Painted Green : C. N. ~M. We have never
heard of any ill-effects from doing this, and do
not suppose that any would arise. If the ordinary
green oil-paints are deemed injurious why not
use Carson's anti-corrosion paint ?

Grape-Vine Lifted Two Years Ago : Novice.
The Vine probably suffered from the heavy crop
that it carried the next year, and took its revenge
by bearing scantily. Crop lightly this year, and
its productiveness will be restored in a season or
two. Do not be lavish with the use of solid

manure on the Vine-border. It will do no good
unless the fertilising properties in it are carried
to the roots by means of heavy waterings whilst
in active growth. If the loam is heavy do not
employ a mulch of manure,! but apply manure-
water of good strength three times during the
summer, first applying pure water. Dressings of
lime, potash, and basic slag are useful to Vines
at the rate of £ lb. per square yard. The
retention of the straw round the stem did the
Vine no harm.
Lily of the Valley : Valley. A bud having
once flowered, does not do so again. It must lie
three years old to produce a flower, or, strictly
speaking, its flowering year is the third of its
existence. A clump of Lily of the Valley will
contain buds one, two, and three years old.
Trade growers separate these into three lots, the
three-year-old, the plumpest and largest, beiug
reserved for flowering indoors or out-of-doors,
and the others for planting to grow on to the
flowering age. In an undisturbed Lily-bed, buds
of many different ages are found, none of them,
however, producing flowers but those that are
three years old. It is the unavoidable crowding
of an old bed with much flowerless growth that
leads to small flower-spikes and minute flowers.
Names of Fruit : J. F. J). Pear, Vicar of Wink-
field. — Dalyril. Pale] Apple, WinterJ Hawthorn,
den ; coloured, Besspool.
Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
tins issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — P. E. H. Habrothamnus
elegaus. — T. T. C. 1, Rhapis flabelliformis ; 2,
Cupressus Lawsoniana ; 3, Retinospora pisifera,
of gardens ; 4, Adiantum decorum ; 5, Adiantum
formosum ; 6, Pteris cretica variety ; 7, Pteris
cretica albo-lincata. — A. T. C. J. Probably a
young frond of Adiantum pubescens.
Peristeria elata : IF. ,/. Kaye. The withering
and browning of the leaves is due to your having
dried off the plant, which is an injurious pro-
cedure at the season of rest. The plant should
be at such time afforded less water, but not be
dried off, and less hiat should lie given.
Red-Spider on Carnations : J. R. This pest
can be got rid of by using Richards' XL-All
special preparation. Sponging the leaves with
soapy water is of great use, and effects the same
purpose.
Substitute for Glass: Paper. If "DLiroline"
be meant, this substance was being sold in 1894
by the New Wirewove Roofing Co., 75a, Queen
Victoria Street, E.C. It is mentioned in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, 1st vol. for 1894, p. 143.
Sulphuring Vines : H. R. G. Mention is made
of the practice having been safely performed in
the Gardeners' Chronicle for January 1 and 8
last year, pp. 13 and 28. We do not know of
any correct formula, and would advise great
caution in the use of burning sulphur, even before
the buds of the Vine move in the least degree.

TWO - FLOWERED CyPRIPEDIUM INSIGNE : E. W.

Unusual, but not unprecedented.
Vines : Anxious One. It will be quite safe to prune
forth with, cutting back the laterals to the best
and plumpest bud on each, and keeping the
vinery as cool as possible till the time for starting
the Vines has arrived. What cleaning and
dressing are needed should be carried out directly
after the pruning is finished. Another year you
should not cut back the laterals to four joints
before the danger from any of the buds pushing
is past, say the second week in October. The
gain in strength is quite problematical, and in
the case of black Crapes left hanging it results in
loss of colour owing to the removal of the shade-
giving leaves, although white ones may gain a
higher tint.

Communications Received.— R. Sowerbv, Reading.— E. C—
E. M— W. G. S.— J. OB.— G. N.— G. H.— A. F. B.—
M. Roze.— A. M., Paris.— S. A,— Hnrst and Sons.— Balfied.
A. H.-W. S. H— F. M.— X.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks. —
G. H. G.

Important to Advertisers. - '■<''»' PiiWisher has

tht satisfaction of announcing that the circulation of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since tlit reduction in tlie
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle" circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners
and Gardes-lovers at home, that it >ms a specially large

FOREION AND COLONIAL CIRCULATION, and that It U

2>reserr< d for reference in all tin' principal Libvari *.

January 14, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE

"y.£*ammC«r*

THE

(Sardnters' djtaiiiclc

SATURDA Y, JANUARY 14, 1899.

DISEASES OF THE VINE.

THE Grape-Vine may be said to form the
principal feature in hundreds of glasshouses
in this country. A proprietor with only a small
jjortion of land under glass likes to see a good
part of it in the form of a vinery, and expects
his gardener to take the best crop possible out
of this department. The gardener knows, how-
ever, that it is this very crop which gives him a
considerable amount of the worry attendant on
his post. Nor is the Vine specialist, who gives
almost all his time to Grape-growing, by any
means free from cares due to the uncertain
nature of the Vine itself. One hears our
climate or the indoor mode of cultivation
adopted in this country blamed, yet it is not so
easy to explain away our troubles thus, for if we
turn to France, with the greatest area of out-
door vineyards in the world, we find there,
troubles quite as serious and not unlike our
own ; and that, too, in a land where Grape-
growing has passed down from father to son for
many generations. The reasi ms for failure are
deeper then than ignorance of the gardener, or
faults of our indoor cultivation ; they belong to
the Vine itself, and arise because we do not yet
clearly understand the plant. Trouble has,
however, brought study and investigation to
bear on the Vine, and consideration of some of
these may be profitable.

Diseases of the Vine may be conveniently
classed into : —

(1) Those directly traceable to the action of
parasitic fungi.

(2) Those directly traceable to the action of
injurious insects.

(3) Those for which neither fungi nor insects
offer a sufficient explanation.

The first and second class of diseases we pro-
pose on this occasion to pass over, because they
and the remedies likely to check them may be
found described in standard works on Vine-
culture, and the more important have been
dealt with in the back volumes of the Gardeners'
Chronicle, either as replies to queries, or in
special articles. Numerous papers of M. J.
Berkeley, M. C. Cooke, Worthington G. Smith,
and G. Massee, on the fungus diseases may Vie
mentioned as examples.

The unexplained diseases of the Vine are
important enough to merit special notice, as
they have been the subject of many investiga-
tions. As a general conclusion of the perusal
of some of the more important results obtained,
we are led to regard most of the unexplained
diseases as "physiological," that is, they are
due to defects in cultivation, to adverse climatic
or other conditions, and to the use of unsuitable
varieties of the Vine. Fungi or insects may
appear along with diseases of this kind, but they
come later and only because the plants are
already weakly. One might even go further, and
say that most of the fungus-diseases of the Vine
are really started by defects in cultivation ; the

Vines are weakened, the fungi come and com-
plete the mischief. The Vine, as it has to be
cultivated in this country, is open in many ways
to defective cultivation. Its roots are generally
in a border exposed to the changes of climate
out-of-doors ; its shoots are under glass ; while
the methods employed to pn iduce a large supply
of fruit of high quality may easily result in
conditions favourable to the development of
disease.

Shanking.
"Shanking" is a trouble which accompanies
Grape-growing all over the world. The Grapes as
they approach maturity fall off the bunch, breaking
away where the stalk joins the fruit ; or they may
simply shrivel up and remain attached. The
Orapes to go first are those towards the lower end
of a bunch, or tliose on the shoulders. The number
may vary from one to many, and the trouble may
be apparentl all over the Vine or only on parts of it.
The foliage is at the same time more or less
affected ; generally the leaves turn brown and curl in
places, or all over. Insects or fungi have never
been proved to be the real cause of the trouble, the
chief reason is to be sought in the condition of the
Vine itself. No doubt, the disease is not always
due to the same cause. Over-cropping frequently
leads to "shanking," so, also, does too early ripen-
ing of the wood. Both of these conditions result
in a drain on the food -supplies which the plant has
to provide, and will lead to starvation of maturing
frnit. The atmosphere inside the house requires
careful attention ; excessive moisture and heat pro-
duce conditions favourable to " shanking " if they
cause undue forcing of the Vines ; on the other
hand, any check due to sudden dryness or cooling,
will be first seen in the fruit-bunches.

From what we can learn, the soil itself has no direct
effect, but a weak root-system due to defects in the
air, heat, texture, or moisture of the soil, will not be
in a condition to supply the necessary water and
food to a fruiting Vine. Excess of nitrogenous sub-
stances in the Vine due to over manuring or to over-
cultivation of a rich outside border, easily aggravate
" shanking." It is said by good authorities that
"shauking" occurs when the Vine is deficient in
potash, and they recommend this to be supplied in
some form as a manure to the soil. Dropping
of the Grapes is also a common result of any
disease of the foliage, stems, or roots of the
Vine.

A disease on out-door Vines, recently described
by French investigators under the name " maladie
pectiqne," seems to us very like a form of " shank-
ing." The leaves in the lower parts of the Vines
show discoloured patches, which become wine-red in
dark-fruited varieties, or yellowish iu white-fruited.
This is followed by withering, curling, and drying-
Up of the leaves ; as this goes on, the blade breaks
away at the top of the leaf-stalk. Flowers and
young fruit behave in the same way, shrivel, and
drop from their stalk. The disease was never seen
to cause total loss of a Vine, as it never seemed to
spread beyond the lower branches. No parasites
of any kind could be found. The conditions which
lead to the disease are sudden changes of climate
affecting the soil. The soils most liable to it are
light, and of a pebbly or slatey nature. The vine-
yards, where it showed most, were subjected to
severe drought in 1S93, followed early iu 1S94 by
continual rain and a marked fall in temperature of
both air and soil. These facts support the view
that "shanking " on our indoor Vines is not caused
by either fungus or insect, but by conditions arising
from soil or climate.

Blanching.
"Chlorose," or "blanching," is a disease which
has caused much trouble in the south of France.
The Vine-leaves lose their deep green shade, then
become yellow or completely blanched. The loss of
colour generally begins near the margin of the leaf,
and spreads inwards between the veins ; the affected
parts may or may not become withered. Young
green twigs sicken like the haves, and may dry up.

The woody branches are retarded in growth, and
new leaves given off remain small and blanched.
As the malady almost always develops before the
flowering period, both flowers and young fruit are
stunted aud discoloured, and probably dry up or
fall off. French experience shows that chlorose is
worst on very limey calcareous soils. On such soils
the Vines sicken in the first year, and gradually
lose their vigour ; death may ensue, but frequently
the Vines recover gradually each year, and the
chlorose may disappear. Where the soil is less
calcareous, the disease is less intense. On clay or
siliceous soils, chlorose only appears in some cold
wet spring, when yellow patches may appear on the
leaves, but growth is hardly interrupted, and, if the
weather improves, all comes well again. The
primary cause of chlorose is the presence of too
much carbonate of lime (limestone or chalk) in the
soil, and its action is assisted by any condition of
the soil which increases the amount of soluble
lime. This is further assisted by want of water,
light, heat, or air, which defects tend to weaken
the general health of the Vines. The disease is
diminished by any mode of cultivation which pro-
motes good drainage in the soil, or which strengthens
the growth of the Vine. Above all, applications of
sulphate of iron (green vitriol) to the soil round the
roots of the Vine do most to cure chlorose ; this is
the case, even though the soil naturally contains
iron. As many of the great Vine-growing districts
of France have a calcareous soil, chlorose is a
serious disease, and, during the Phylloxera epi-
demic, it assisted in almost exterminating the
Vine, and in ruining many a grower. During
recent years, however, great progress has been
made iu checking both Phylloxera and chlorose.
This is done by selecting Vines produced by
grafting the European. Vine (Vitis vinifera) on
stocks of American Vines. We cannot discuss the
subject fully in this paper. Briefly, however,
certain varieties of Vitis vinifera grow fairly well
on calcareous soils (e.g., Folle-Blanche, Pinot,
Colombeau, &c. ) ; these are grafted on stocks of
the American Vitis Berlandieri, which is found
wild only on calcareous soils. The Viuifera-Ber-
laudieri hybrids have been used to re-stock
hundreds of acres in France, and the Grapes pro-
duced are not inferior in quality, while the Vines
are much more resistent to disease. This is an
important chapter in the history of Vine cultiva-
tion, aud illustrates the great value of resistent
varieties or hybrids as a means of combating
diseases of plants. We have urged this before,
and believe that more substantial progress will be
made against diseases of plants by means of hardy
varieties than by any methods of spraying or sul-
phuring sickly plants. Win. G. Smith, Leeds.
(To ?"■ continued).

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

STAUROPSIS LISSOCHILOiDES VAR.
MASSAIANA.

Some time ago, H. ,J. Ross, Esq., of Poggio
Gherardo, Florence, asked for information respecting
a plant which, I believe, he purchased from Messrs.
Linden as Vanda Massaiana. The communication
was accompanied by an artistic accurate drawing
made by Mrs. Janet Ross.

The flowers represented a brightly-coloured form
of Stauropsis Lissochiloides (Vanda Batemaui),
and the reply given was that it could only be that
species. Two facts, however, remained, viz., that
this variety blooms freely on small plants, and the
leaves are very different in shape, as in place of the
hard, straight leaves tapering gradually to the
point, as in the type, these are more strap-shaped,
more equal in width, generally curved, aud more
acutely bilobed at the apex.

Recently I had an opportunity of examining a
small importation of this variety made by Messrs.
Jas. Veitch & Sons, of Chelsea, and the advantages
it gave of securiug a plant of moderate growth,

*

18

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January- H, 1899.

and flowers iu a small state, over the large, shy-
flowering old type, was apparent.

The flower-buds are of a rich vinous-purple on
the outside, the same hue remaining on the
reverse of the flower when open. The face of the
sepals and petals is bright chrome-yellow, with
ruby-red spots, some of them being ocellate, a few
crimson-purple marks being found around the
column ; and the lip is white and claret coloured.

Odontoglossum Crispum, Rosslyn var.

This grand form of typical Odontoglossum
crispum is comparable to the noble 0. c. Prince of
Wales, which received a First-class Certificate at the
Royal Horticultural Society on June 14, 1898. In
actual measurement this is slightly smaller than the
variety named, but when it is considered that the
certificated plant was a large one, and superbly
grown, and this one is only a small imported plant,
matters may be equalised.

O. crispum, Rosslyn variety, measures 4 inches
across, and all the segments are so broad as to fill-
in the greater part of the circumference of the
flower. The sepals are white, delicately tinged
with rose-colour, especially on the reverse side,
each having one or two purplish-red blotches. The
petals, which are slightly wavy at the margin, are
pure white. The large and prettily crimped lip
is white, with a clear yellow disc, and several
large confluent dark chestnut-red blotches iu the
middle. The plant flowered with that enthusiastic
lover of the genus Odontoglossum, H. T. Pitt,
Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill (gr,, Mr. Thurgood).
Jame.8 O'Brii n.

in the twelve months of 8 161 inches. There were
but two mouths iu the year, namely, May and
December, when the rainfall exceeded the average,
there being ten months of deficiency. This is the
smallest yearly rainfall measured at Rothamsted
since 1864, when 18J inches only, fell ; the next
lowest was lyr<4, when 19-4 inches were recorded,
aud the year nearest to that of 1898 was 1858, wheu
slightly over 20 inches fell.

In order to Understand what this deficiency
of rain means to vegetation, it may be stated
that the 8-161 inches represents 824 J tons of
water on each acre of land, equal to 184,034 gal-
lons, aud as we began the year 1S98 with a
deficiency from 1S97 of D579 inch, equal to 159J
tons, or 35,723 gallons of water, it means that at
Rothamsted the laud at the present time requires
220,357 gallons of water on each acre to bring the
amount up to the normal average ; consequently,
our well-springs and other supplies of water may
show a falling off which can easily be accounted for.

The amount of snow which fell at Rothamsted iu
1898 was most exceptionally small : about 2 inches
were recorded in February, 6 inches in March, aud
8 inches in November, making a total depth of
about 16 inches for the year. /. J. Willis,
Unrpi wli ii.

THE RAINFALL OP 1898.

It is generally acknowledged that the rainfall for
the year 1898 is below, and in some districts of
the country very much below, the average. So
great has been the deficiency of rain at Rothamsted,
Hertfordshire, that in Sir John Lawes' experi-
mental Wheat-field, which is pipe-drained, to
enable the observer to determine the loss of
nitrates in the drainage, no water passed from the
early part of January until the beginning of
December. This is the second time only of such
an occurrence during a period of more than forty
years.

The following table shows the rainfall for the
past year at Rothamsted, Hertfordshire, according
to the measurements taken from Sir John Lawes'
gauge, which in size is 6 feet by 7 feet 3 inches,
equal to one-thousandth of an acre in area. It stands
2 feet above the ground, and is 420 feet above the sea-
level. The average rainfall from the same gauge
is also given for forty years, with the difference of
Is! is above or below the average.

Rainfall at Rothamsted for each Month of flu Yeai 1898,
,,„,/ the Total Yearly Rainfall.

\liini.li.

January

February

March

April

May

.lUlie

July

August
September ...
October
November ...

Dprelnbev ...
Yearly total

"Rainfall,
1898.

Average
Rainfall of

Forty Years.

Is: is.
Above or
Below the
Average.*

Inches.
il-7!'',
L-098

L-oeo

1-443

i ,,»-,
1-451

Inches.
2-453
1743
1-730
1-972
2-327
2-414
2-731

Inrlir-

—1-658
0-645
0-670
—0-529
+0-565
-0-S07
— 1-2S0

i 20!

;■ ,99

- 1-392

0 59i

■J-.-i.j1

1-954

■■'

3-193

—0-304

-J-44I'

2-770

—0-3:10

; in..

•2-170

+0-843

20-492

28-653

—8-101

The Rock Garden.

« -rue. sign (-) signifies below the average, and the sign
(+) above the average.

The above data show that the yearly total of
ram for 189S was 20'492 inches, against an average
for forty years of 2S#653 inches, giving a deficiency

GERANIUM SANGUINEUM ALBUM.
Within the last two or three years, there has
been offered by a nurseryman a plant under the
above name. It appears to correspond in every way
with one received by the writer under a similar
name from Mr. W. D. Robinson-Douglas, of
Orehardton, Castle Douglas, N.B. Probably
they are from the same stock. Mr. Robin-
son-Douglas found this Geranium on the coast
of the Solway, near Auchencairu, in Kirkcud-
brightshire. Although named as a variety of
Geranium sanguineum, it appears to the writer
that it is not that species, but a hybrid between ( ! .
sanguineum and another, which is, in all likeli-
hood, G. pratense. The latter, like G. sangui-
neum, is plentiful on the sandy coasts of the
Solway Firth. It is, it may be admitted, not im-
probable that the Bloody Crane's-bill may produce
a white variety, but the plant under notice differs
considerably from the type, and also from G. s.
laucastriense, the Walney Island variety of the
species. The habit of the plant is different, it
being larger and less compact. The leaves are
also more divided, and the flowers, besides being
larger, are more cup-shaped. After growing the
type and the Walney Island Crane's-bill under the
same conditions as the so-called G. s. album,
the writer submits, with considerable confidence,
that the last-named is a hybrid between G, san-
guineum and (i. pratense.

As a garden plant, it is of much value. It grows
very freely. It has, indeed, a tendency to grow a
little too quickly. Its greater laxuess of growth
is, perhaps, a failing ; but the way in which the
flowers are poised above 'the leaves, like large white
butterflies, renders a good clump very attractive.
The flowers are a trifle flimsy in texture, but this
adds to tin; lightness of their appearance. One
prefers this Geranium on rockwork because of the
opportunity afforded of checking gross growth, but
it can be grown in the border as well.

PRITILLARIA MELEAGHIS, KLOK1. TI.I.S'i.
Properly speaking, the Snake's Head Fritillary
is a meadow-loving plant, but it grows well on
rockwork not too dry, and its nodding flowers are
seen to better advantage than when lower down.
Although kuown to Parkinson, the double variety
of Fritillaria Meleagris is not very generally known,
and it is but rarely that we see it in gardens. It
is grown at Kew, aud-one sees it occasionally offered
at a fairly high price in catalogues. It is figured in
Wooster's Alpine Plants, second series, plate xxx.
The colouring is, however, too deep, and, singularly

enough, the author makes no reference to its being
the double form which he shows. The doubling, so
far, as the writer knows, is the only instance of the
kind among the Fritillarias, although among the
Liliacea?, to which order the Fritillarias belong,
several of the Lilies have flowers showing donbliug.
F. Meleagris, flore-pleno, is more curious than beau-
tiful, but those who have a liking for out-of-the-
way plauts will appreciate its singularity.

PoTKNTII.I.A ALCHEMILLOIDES.

Few of our rock-garden flowers are such free-
bloomers as this Cinquefoil. There are not many
mouths in the year in which it does uot give a few
blooms. This winter a plant cm a rather dry
rockery iu the writer's garden produced a few
flowers from August until after New Year's Day.
The flowers, as may be expected, have not looked
happy, but the fact of their being in view may
emphasise the remark as to the floriferousness of
the Alchemilla-leaved Cinquefoil.

The hardiness of P. aleheinilloides is unquestion-
able in the writer's garden. It is at its best in
June here ; then, after a month or so of rest, in
July, it begins to flower again. The flowers are
pure white, aud the leaves in shape and in general
appearance show how appropriately the plant has
been called " Alehemilla-like,'' from their resem-
blance to those of the Alpine Lady's Mantle. It is
easily propagated by division. It is a native of
the Pyrenees, and a plant which can be confidently
recommended to .the grower of alpine flowers.
x. Arnott, Ctir*i thorn, by Dumfries, N.B.

ROME.

{Continued from p. 2.)
TitR Eucalyptus in Britain. — Before bringing
this paper to a close, it seems to me pertinent
to enquire — is there any future for Eucalypti
iu Englaud at all, aud will they do good there V
I have known persons who would emulate the
credulity of the monks in the virtues which they
attribute to these strange Australian trees. A
broken Eucalyptus-bough or a few leaves were in
their opinion sure to be a defence against influenza
and other things —but all this is for the most part
beside the mark. In England, as elsewhere, they
might be very serviceable for drainage purposes if
only they would live, but that seems problematical
in the highest degree, and for uothiug else is it
worth while to take much trouble about them. In
your impression of December 3, I remember reading
the following passage: " Eucalyptus Globulus. — I
quite agree with 'J. H. D.'in his remarks as to
the rarity or difficulty of growing this plant ; here,
we have plants 16 or IS feet high that have
withstood five winters without the slightest
protection, etc. In my opiuiou the principal
cause of failure to grow them is planting them too
soon, &c." The writer, who is evidently alive
to the difficulty that surrounds the whole matter,
is full of hope that it may be somehow overcome.
I am sure, I do not wish to daunt him in any degree,
but with regard to E. Globulus I am persuaded that
it has not a constitution which is sufficieutly hardy
for Englaud. It is a great favourite wherever it
gets on well because it makes a great show so
quickly, and my friend the Trappist monk calls
it Al, because it gives him no trouble at all ; but
that is a different thing from the way in which
Cavaliere Palice speaks about the same matter. He
does not say that Eucalyptus Globulus can be
trusted in all places aud positions, but he maintains
exactly the reverse, and he puts E. resinifera at the
head of the whole of them, because it is more
reliable than the rest. And this, so far as E.
Globulus is concerned, I have seen over and over
again in the Isle of Wight. It goes on well, say, for
seven or eight years or more, and then a more than
usually hard frost comes, and every tree is de
stroyed.

I remember twenty or twenty-five years ago
receiving a letter from a friend who had a line
place at Westridge, near Ryde, and his asking me

January 14, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

19

to go to him at once. He certainly wag not addicted
to botany or to the cultivation of trees and plants
at all, but, somehow, E. Globulus had found its way
into his garden, and had attained to a great size ; he
was very proud of his tree, but he could not make
out the buds, and one spring very unexpectedly,
and very suddenly, so far as the owner was con-
cerned, it broke out into blossom, and was a pretty
sight to see. I really do not know what this
gentleman imagined had taken place. The knob-
like buds he had esteemed to be seed-vessels, so far as
he had thought about them at all, and the difficulty
in his mind was, what then had succeeded them ?
and he was very slow to believe that his Eucalyptus
was blossoming. But that tree gave rise to many

Now they are coming up again in some plantations
and gardens, and they look very promising, but the
promise will only last till the mercury iu the
thermometer goes below a certain point, and the
whole thing will be over. This sort of occurrence
is by no means peculiar to the neighbourhood where
I live. I asked a lady who is a visitor to Rome
this winter, and who lives at Falmouth, how it
fared with her about this matter, and her answer
was, they get on well for five or six years, and
then a hard frost comes and every Eucalyptus is
killed. 1 have even heard of a fine tree at Bourne-
mouth, which stood the climate there for seventeen
years, and at last was cut off. They may do per-
manently in other places about which I know

&7 -Y

Fig. 5. -pelargonium crithmifolium : flowers white, with a pink f.ye.

false hopes in the Isle of Wight. If K. Globulus
could behave like this, aud grow so tall, and
blossom so luxuriantly, what more could be
required '! It would certainly take to the Isle of
Wight, aud the Isle of Wight might have a new
possession of great value about which no doubt
need be entertained. But what really took place '.'
]£. Globulus was planted in fairly large quantity in
aud about Ryde, and everything went on swim-
mingly for a series of years. Near Trinity Church iu
Ryde there were some very large specimens iudeed,
there were one or two in St. John's Park, the same
(I think) in the grounds of Isle of Wight College,
certainly one or two iu my own garden, and nobody
dreamt of any ill coming to them ; all boded so
well. But the frost of 1 SSI made short work of the
whole lot, and for some time there was not a Euca-
lyptus in the place that was worth speaking of.

notliiug at all, but the Scilly Isles give the only
exception I can think of to a universal rule. [Fota,
Mr. Smith-Barry's place, near Cork Ed.]. 1 may,
however, say that I know nothing about the west
coast of Scot land, aud how they fare there.

The question, therefore, about them is this. Is
any one species so much more hardy and so much
more slow-growing than the others as to afford
solid ground for hope ?

I remember myself hearing some time ago of two
names of Eucalypti. I think they were E. Gunni,
E. coccifera and another, aud these were said
to promise quite well for the future in point of
hardiness, but I do not know how the promise was
fullilled — it cau do no harm if a third oue be added
to the list — it may prove a failure, like so many
others : but E. resinifera has a very good character
here, which should not be overlooked

I would only just add, that I have brought a good
supply of seed of E. resinifera from the Trappist
Monastery, and I shall not myself want a tithe of
it. I will readily send some of it to any one who
applies for it to me on my return home to St. John's,
Ryde, which will be, so far as I can tell at present,
in the month of April next. //. Eirbank (Rev.),
Rome, Chris/max Eve, 1S9S. [E. resinifera was
figured in our columns, with a descriptive article
from the late Dr. George Bennett. See Gardeners'
Chronicle, August 3, 1S72, p. 104. E. coccifera, at
Powderham Castle, Devon, has often been figured
in our columns. See February 7, 1891. We should
be pleased to hear the present height of that
specimen. The tree at Kew which gets hurt by
frost is E. Gunni. E. urnigera is the tree grown at
Whittingham, East Lothian. See Oairdt »• rs'
Chronicle, June 30, 1SS8. We may also refer to
an article on February 7, 1891, as containing a
summary of our knowledge of these plants, as
grown in the open air in this country. Er>.].

PELARGONIUM CRITHMIFOLIUM.

A large plant of this queer-looking Pelargonium
(see fig. 5) has lately been added to the Kew col-
lection by Professor Macowan, of Cape Town, who
obtained it and numerous other rare and interesting
succulents during a short stay in the Karoo district,
north-west of Cape Town. Although leafless and
well dried, the plant weighs 151b., and the thickest
of its gouty-looking, succulent stems are nearly
2 inches iu diameter. It is remarkable also in
being enclosed, as it were, in a network of sharp
spines, which are formed by the hardening of the
persistent panicles, as in the case of Cotyledon
reticulata, from the same region, of which a figure
was published in the Gardeners' Chronicle, vol. xxi.,
p. 282. There is a figure of the Pelargonium in
Sweet's Geraniacece, i\\, 354, prepared in 1827 from
a plant cultivated by Sir R. C. Hoare, Bart., at
Stourhead, near Frome. It is there represented as
having leaves and flowers like those of P. carnosura,
an allied species, well known in botanical collections
to day. The leaves are irregularly bipinuate, and the
flowers an inch across, white, with a pink eye.

Burchell mentions it in his Travels, vol. i., 225,
under the name of P. munitum. He says : "We
removed to the Yoke River . . . not a single drop
of water could anywhere be found, even by digging.
... In the interim I took a botanical ramble,
and added forty-eight plants to my collection.
Amongst them was a succulent species of Pelar-
gonium, so defended by the old panicles, grown to
hard woody thorns, that no animal could browse
upon it. In this arid country, where every juicy
vegetable would soon be eaten up by the wild
animals, the Great Creating Power, with all
provident wisdom, has given to such plants either
an acrid or a poisonous juice, or sharp thorns to
preserve the species from annihilation in those
regions where for good and wise purposes they hav«
been placed."

The photograph from which the illustration was
made was taken by Mr. A. E. Griessen. (1*. IK.

NOVELTIES OF 1898.

(Continued from p. 2.)
Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, take
the lead as producers of good Orchids. Not only
has Mr. John Seden boon able to raise and
flower for them many fine novelties, especially
in Cattleyas, Lwlias, and Lselio-Cattleyas, but
by reproducing known crosses, using the finest
procurable varieties for crossing, placed several
Well-known things on quite a new footing.
Instances of this kind may be noticed in Lseliu-
Cattleya x Wellsiana var. Langleyensis, L.-C. x
Eudora splendens, L.-C. x Canhamiana superba,
L.-C. x callistoglossa ignescens, L.-C. Domini-
ana var. Langleyensis. and Dendrobium x
Aspasia Langleyensis, all. of which, in the more

20

THE GABDENEBS' CHBONICLE.

[January 14, 1899.

recent productions, have been so far superior
to the originals as to secure for them awards at
the hands of the Orchid Committee of the Royal
Horticultural Society.

Other fine novelties certificated to Messrs.
Veitch in 1898 are Lselio-Cattleya x Ingrami
gigantea, a very remarkable flower, of great
size, fine substance, and rich colour ; L.-C. x
Thorntoni (C. Gaskelliana x L. Digbyana), a fine
companion for L.-C. Digbyano-Tiianaei, and
L.-C. x Digbyano-Mossue ; L.-C. x Hip-
polyta aurantiaca, wholly of two shades of
orange colour; Lselia x Digbyano-purpurata, a
fine flower, though at present it has not deve-
loped the fringe, which is the great attraction of
L. Digbyana crosses ; L. x splendens, Cattleya

x Miranda, C. X Adele, C. X Ella, C. x in-
tertexta, and other Cattleyas, all good of their
kind ; Disa x Diores var. Clio, a fine form of a
showy and variable batch ; the singular Epi-
Cattleya x radiata-Bowringiana, the curious
illustration of colour-suppression Epidendrum x
elegantulum var. leucochilum, the pretty
Phalsenopsis x Stuartiano-Manni, Masdevallia

x lmogene, Cattleya Schroderse amabilis, &c.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Enfield, have contributed well and continually to the
Orchid displays shown throughout the year 1898, and
many of their fine new plants have been Certificated.
Among their finest productions were Cattleya
Mendeli, Oakes Ames, and C. M. Mrs. E. V. Low,
two superb forms ; Cypripedium x I'Ausoni and
C. x Mrs. Reginald Young, with which they per-
formed the unusual feat for Cypripediums by
talcing two First-class Certificates on the same day.
C. x F. S. Roberts, a pretty thing of the Tautzia-
num class ; and C. x Olivia, a singular C. tonsum
hybrid ; Phahenopsis x Schrodera>, an improvement
ou P. x intermedia Portei ; Odontoglossum nebulo-
snm pardinum splendens, O. crispum Prince of
Wales, one of the grandest of the typical forms ;
O. c. Memoria, W. E. Gladstone, and 0. C. Dieu-
donne, both fine spotted forms ; L;elio-0attleya x
Schilleriana, flowers with very richly -coloured lip ;
Oendrobium Dalhousieanum Salmoneum and
Bulbophylluin Claptonense, the last-named a very
handsomely coloured form of the B. Lobbi section.

Messrs. J. Charlesworth & Co., at the last
Temple Show made a fair display chiefly of novel-
ties raised or acquired, and shown for the first
time. Of t be best were Cattleya x Fernand Denis
(Acklaudi;e x Warscewiczii) ; C. x Breanteaua
(Loddigesii x superba) ; La-lio-Cattleya x radiata
(L. purpurata x C. dolosa) ; the singular Ladia x
einuabiosa (cinnabarina x tenebrosa) ; the pretty
yellow L.-C. x intermedio-flava "Golden Queen";
Odontoglossum crispum Jeanette, 0. nebulosum
])uuctatissimum, O.Halli, Charlesvvorth's variety, kc.
Messrs. Charlesworth also showed a fine batch of
varieties of Phaius x Norman, three of the most
distinct of which were awarded certificates ; the
singular Epi-Ladia x Charles worthi, and the pretty
Sophro-Cattleya x Cleopatra.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co. have mainly devoted
their energies to the re-introduction of desirable
species, such as Dendrobium atro-violaceum, D.
Johnsouia?, &c. ; and in that direction the intro-
duction by them of the famous Dendrobium spec-
tabile (figured as Latourei spectabile), is worthy of
congratulation. Many hybrid Cypripediums also
have been flowered by them, and, among other
noteworthy subjects, the distinct Sobralia San-
deriaua, Odontoglossum crispum Roi Leopold, a
very remarkable spotted form ; 0. grande Sandera?,
a charming wholly yellow variety ; Lycaste Skinneri
Baroness Schroder, resembling the best form of
L. S. alba, with a delicate blush on the sepals
aud lip ; Ladio-Cattleya x Duke of York, a very
handsome hybrid ; and Cattleya Triamei Sandene,
a charmiug and novel flower. Of other novelties in
Orchids of the year, mention should be made of the
brightly-coloured Miltonia vexillaria Empress Vic-
toria Augusta, shown by Messrs. Backhouse ; the

fine Ladio-Cattleya x Henry Greenwood, shown by
Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son.

Continental uovelties have been more than ordi-
narily plentiful, though only a small proportion
have been exhibited in Great Britain : —

M. Linden, l'Horticultural Internationale, Brus-
sels, have been especially strong in fine forms of
Odontoglossum crispum, which their remarkably
good culture enables them to show at their very
best. On several occasions they have staged groups
of Odoutoglossums showing the most bewildering
variations, not the least beautiful being the many
forms of their importation, which gave 0. X
Adrians, and which forms the type of a set which
may be natural hybrids of 0. Hunnewellianum.
One of the handsomest is 0. x A. venustum, for
which they secured an Award at the last Temple
Show, when the fine O. crispum zebrinum, O. c.
decorum, 0. Pescatorei bellatuluin, and others,
were similarly distinguished. Their varieties of
Cattleya Mossi;e and C. Triansei have also produced
fine novelties, of which C. Mossia? Marguerite is
a good example ; and the Moortebeeke forms of
0. x Wilckeauuin, beautiful though they are, are
very puzzling to the oue who wishes to thoroughly
understand their derivation.

M. Madoux, of Auderghem, showed at the Temple
Show the pretty Odontoglossum x Adriana- Charles-
iana, and two or three other pretty varieties.

M. Chas. Vuylsteke also showed at the Temple
Show Odontoglossum x crispo - Harryanum, a
home-raised hybrid of delicate markings, nearest
in appearance to a pale 0. Harryauum.

M. Chas. Maron, of Brunoy, near Paris, the
raiser of so many good hybrid Orchids, began the
year with the handsome Ladio-C'attleya X Henry
Greenwood, which took the Medal for the best
hybrid Orchid at the Ghent Quinquennial Show ;
and later he showed the fiue Cattleya x Maroni
(velutina x Hardyaua) at the Royal Horticultural
Society, when it was pronounced one of the best
new plauts of the year.

Altogether, there is sufficient evidence of good
progress in every branch of Orchid culture.

New or rare Orchids illustrated iD the Gardeners'
Chronicle, in 1898, iuclude the following: —

Aceras Bolleana, June 11, p. 365.

Cattleya x Maroni, November 5, p. 33'2.

Cirrbopetalum appendiculatum, December 1(1,
p. 415.

Dendrobium nobile Ashworthiauum, April •_',
p. 203.

Epi-Cattleya x radiato-Bowriugiaua, June 25,
p. 391.

Eulophiella l'eetersiana (Hower-spike), Supple-
ment, April 2.

Eulophiella l'eetersiana (plant), April 2, p. 200.

Laalia anceps Amosiana, Crawshay's var., Jan-
uary 22, p. 59.

Laelia auceps Waddonieusis, February 20, p. 125.

Ladio-Cattleya x Henry Greenwood, November 26,
p. 383.

Lselio-Cattleya x Digbyano-Trianasi, Jan. 1, p. 8.

Odontoglossum crispum Prince of Wales, June 25.
p. 390.

Odontoglossum x Wilckeauum, Pitt's variety,
May 7, p. 274.

Phah-enopsis >: John Seden, March 19, p. 171.

Phahenopsis Ludde-violacea, July 10, p. 43.

Phahenopsis x Schrodene, April 30, p. 259.

Renanthera Imschootiana, January 15, p. 41.

Spathoglottis x aureo-Veillardi, May 21, p. 309.

Stanhopea Madouxiana, August 20, p. 135.

Stanhopea Rodigasiana, July 9, p. 31.

Vanda x Miss Joaquim, Supplement, August 31 a
{To be oonHmued.)

Florists' Flowers.

— f— —

CARNATION PRINCESS MAY FOR WINTER

FLOWERING.

This Malmaisou breed of Caruation makes ad

admirable winter-blooming plant, as may be seen

by any oue calling at the nursery of Mr. C. Turner,

Slough, where a large house is devoted chiefly to
this variety. About 2000 plants are grown, the
variety being in good demand ; and at the time of
my visit a few weeks since some hundreds of open
aud partially-expanded blossoms were in evidence,
and flowers were being cut daily. The large, deep
rose flowers are very useful at this season for
button-hole and other cut-flower purposes. For
winter flowering, cuttings should be inserted in
early spring, and the plants grown ou into 5 and
6-inch pots, ft 7/.

Late-flowering White Chrysanthemums.
We have now several late white flowering
varieties, that are a distinct advance upon older
kinds. For years I have interested myself in
testing varieties for this purpose. Haifa-dozen
sorts from those following would be difficult to
beat, and the type they represent is really the
best for various forms of decoration. Mrs. M.
Simpson, raised in 1896, is an English seedling,
and is naturally so late in flowering that it is
extremely difficult to bloom the plauts in November
under the orthodox system of large bloom produc-
tion. The full centred, solid blooms are of the
purest white. From six to nine blooms on a spray
are produced on stout stems, which is all in its
favour when required for vase decoration.

Niveum is well known as a really good December-
flowering Chrysanthemum. With age the blooms
assume a slight creamy-white tinge of colour. For
freedom in flowering none can surpass this American-
raised variety, as many as a dozen blooms are borne
on single sprays.

The Queen as a pure white Christmas flowering
variety is excellent. The lauce-shaped florets are
rather short, but the bloom is a full and solid one.

Mrs. Weeks is well known as one of the best of
incurved Japanese for November flowering to
require much description here. When cidtivated
to produce late flowers, it is a most desirable
variety. The florets in an exhibition flower are
naturally of an incurving character, but under this
treatment they reflex perfectly.

Simplicity produces pure white blooms, with long
drooping florets, but the peduncles are weaker thau
desirable.

L. Canning is perhaps the best of all for January
and February flowering. The florets are flat and
of the purest white. To successfully grow late
blooming plauts, the cuttings should be struck
early in January in the ordinary way. Top each
plant when it is 6 inches high, to increase the
number of shoots at the base. Repeat this opera-
tion when 6 inches more of growth has been made,
and again early in July. After that allow the
shoots to grow away uninterruptedly, each forming
as many bloom-buds as they may. Grow the
plants in frames as near to the glass as possible, to
encourage a stocky habit. When all fear of frost
has passed, put the plants out in the open ground,
choosing an open situation, away from high walls
or overhanging trees. The soil ought not to be too
rich, or the growth will be too sappy to admit of
the necessary maturity of wood. Fully a yard of
space should be given each plant, so as to avoid
overcrowding. Should the weather be hot and dry,
copious root-waterings will lie necessary.

Some support will be required to prevent the
branches being broken by wind, or heavy raius.
This is best done by placing a stout stake to each
plant to which the shoots may be loosely tied.
Cut arouud the roots of each plant with a spade at
the end of September, to check growth, and thus
enable the plants to better withstand the lifting a
month later without check. Use a rather rich
Compost for potting-up the plants, and place them
in a shady position for ten days, syringing them
daily during dry weather to prevent the leaves
flagging, and to encourage quick root-action. The
plants should be allowed to stay in the open as long
as frost is not anticipated. When, however, they
have been placed into cool-houses, admit an
abundance of air, and to stimulate growth give
them frequent applications of liquid manure.
Except large blooms are desired, no disbudding

January 14, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

21

need be done, and the whole of the buds will then
develop blooms as best they may. E. Molyneux.

Chrysanthemum Cultivation.
If cuttings were inserted early in December tiny
should now be forming roots. The strongest
growing varieties are generally the first to emit
roots. A little air should then be admitted by
tilting the lights slightly, increasing the degree
uutil they may be removed entirely. But while-
some of the plants need air, the leaves of others

slight slope should lie allowed when fixing the
shelves.

The soil in which the plants are growing should
never be permitted to become dry. Directly the
pots are full of roots, the plants should be shifted
on into larger pots. From the thumbs in which
they were rooted, they should bo put into MA-inch
pots. If a check to growth occurs at this stage,
owing to the repotting being deferred, it will be a
serious misfortune. For a compost, use two parts
fibry-loam, one part leaf-soil, ami one part decayed

Fig. 6.-

-SPIR.EA DISCOLOR {ARl.KFOLIA) IN MR. E. R. BELLYSE's GARDEN,
OAKFIELD, NANTWICH. FLOWERS DIRTY WHITE.

that are less strong and have not rooted will Hag.
These should be removed to a frame by themselves,
and kept closer thau those which do not flag, but
require more air. When the plants are well rooted,
and will bear free exposure to the air without
flagging, remove them from the hand-lights and
place them upon a shelf close to the glass in the
same house. If the house be not provided with
shelves, temporary ones can easily be put up by
suspending them from the rafters by means of
strong wire and screws. The shelves may be about
9 inches wide, according to circumstances, and on
each side there should be a groove, so that the
water will run to one end, for which purpose a

horse-droppings, with a free admixture of sharp
silver-sand. For the greater convenience in potting,
pass the compost through a coarse sieve, rubbing
the fibrous pieces through also, and pot firmly ; the
pots must be quite clean, and well drained. If the
soil be moist when used, as it should be, no water
will be required for a day or two.

If by chance any plants receive too much water,
and the leaves become pale in colour, allow the
soil to become dry almost to flagging point for a
couple of weeks, and new roots will form, and a
return of colour to the leaves through the midrib
will be noticed. In stubborn cases half-an-ounce
of sulphate of iron dissolved, in water will quickly

restore the loss sustained. It is not wise to allow
the plants to remain for long in this pale sickly
condition. No position is better for the plants
until they are again established than the shelf to
which I have already alluded. When well-rooted
again, put them close to the glass in a cold framo
where frost will not penetrate. E. M.

SPIEtEA discolor

{am ^e folia).

Among the more robust-growing Spirreas this
species would rank as one of the most striking, by
reason of its long, pendulous, shaggy-looking in-
florescence ; and where the plant is afforded a good
deep soil, and a sunny situation, with a plentiful
supply of moisture at the root, Spirasa arisefolia is no
mean-looking decorative object. The rigid cuneate
leaves are dark-green above, and silvery beneath.
The plant is evidently at home in Mr. Bellyse's
garden, Oakfield, Nantwich. The photograph from
which the illustration (fig. 6) was prepared was
taken on August 22, 1898.

Trees and Shrubs.

— » — —
BERBERIS ANDREANA.

In the current number of the Revue Bbrticoli
M. Naudin describes and figures a new species of
Berberis, found in Uruguay by M. Ed. Andre, and'
introduced by him into cultivation in the Riviera.
The leaves are tufted, coriaceous, persistent, ovatei
lanceolate, entire. The yellow flowers arc in long
loose pendulous racemes, as in the Red Currant.
Betula nigra (The Red Birch).

Beautiful as are the Birches when in leaf, it is in
winter that their individuality becomes most
marked. The unusual colours of the bark, and the
peculiar elegance of the trees' growth give them an
unique place among deciduous vegetation. To none
does this apply in greater degree than to our native
White Birch, which is one of the most effective of
trees in winter. Of several other species possession
the same character, the white Paper Birch (B. papy-
rifera) is the most noteworthy. Quite distinct from
these silvery-barked species is the American Red
Birch, oneof the most characteristic and picturesque
of all trees. In spite of its value and of the fact
that it was introduced in the middle of the last
century, this species has been very little planted in
this country, and is still oneof the rarest of American
trees. Its chief peculiarity is in the dark-coloured
bark, which peels away from the trunk and stands
out in large flakes, giving a curiously rough, ragged
aspect to the tree. It differs also from the other
tree Birches, in that it. branches both in Nature
and under cultivation into three or four secondary
trunks, when a few feet from the ground. Some-
time ago a correspondent enquired in the Gardt new'
i 'hronicle for trees other than Willows, Alders, and
such like that would thrive in very moist positions.
I think this Birch would be well worth trying on
low lake-islands, by water-courses, &c., for it often
grows wild in south-eastern districts of the United
States under semi-aquatic conditions. At the same
time it thrives in ordinary positions as well as other
Birches.

The Yellow-behrted Holly.

Among evergreen trees and shrubs that have been
introduced to this country, it is difficult to point to
one which, in hardiness, beauty, and general useful-
ness combined, surpasses our own native Hollv ;
one might almost add, " in variety," too, for it lias
sported into a wonderful number of forms, to which
every year additions are made. Although not a
new variety, the Yellow-berried Holly deserves
special mention at this season. The year has in
this district been a good one for the fruiting of the
Holly, for the twigs of the common red-berried
variety, as well as those of this yellow one. are
thickly covered with berries. Unless the daj
happens to be bright, and the trees are lit up by
direct sunlight, these yellow berries are, I think,
even brighter and more effective than the red ones.
However that may be, it certainly deserves to be

22

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE.

[Jasitart 14, 1899.

grown for mid- winter effect, and it is just as hardy
and vigorous as the common Holly.

COTONEAKTER ROTUNTlIFOLIA.
Several of the Cotoneasters are noteworthy for
the beauty of their fruits, but this year by far the
finest of them is C. rotundifolia. It is one of the
most ornamental shrubs at new-year-time, its
branches being very thickly laden with bright red
berries. Like the majority of the Cotoneasters, it
comes from the Himalayas. It is evergreen, the
Box-like leaves being of a dark, lustrous green,
almost round, and from a quarter to half-an-ineh
long. The berries are about the size and shape of
the haws of the common Hawthorn, but are of
bright scarlet-red. It has a spreading habit, and
does not appear likely to grow more than 4 feet to
5 feet high. Its branches have much the same flat-
growing character as those of C. horizontals,
although not so marked. C. horizontals has smaller
berries and is deciduous, although it is frequently
described in catalogues as evergreen. W. J. B., Kew,

The Week's Work.

PLANTS "UNDER GLASS.

„.. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.
■ The Houses —An effort should be made to tho-
roughly clean the glass, woodwork, and stages of
all plant-houses at least once a year ; and when-
ever the weather is unfit for outdoor operations,
a favourable opportunity is afforded for undertaking
this important work.

Herbaceous Calceolarias.— To be thoroughly suc-
cessful in the cultivation of this showy plant, it is
essential that its requirements be promptly anti-
cipated, and one of the most important of these is
a cool, moist position, where a steady hardy growth
raav be maintained. Such a position is found in
a pit or frame provided with a hot-water pipe, into
which sufficient heat may be turned to exclude
frost and maintain a temperature of from .to
to 45° according to the outdoor temperature.
Abundant ventilation is another important factor
A small amount of fresh air should be afforded
wheu the temperature of the pit reaches 40 ,
increasing the amount as the temperature rises.
A too close atmosphere induces a weak flabby
growth which will flag and droop over the pots
upon the first sunny day, and it also favours the
attacks of green-fly. Another point is to so order
the re-potting that the plants are kept steadily
progressing, neither performing those operations
too soon, which would result m the plants being
over-potted ultimately, nor delaying them too long,
which would entail the loss of the bottom leaves,
and cause the plants to throw up their flower-
stems prematurely. A suitable compost for her-
baceous Calceolarias may consist of three parts
loam and one part leaf-soil, or rotten hot-bed or
Mushroom-bed manure, together with sufficient
saud to keep the soil sweet and open. If large
plants are required, the first main flower-stem
may be pinched out as soon as it appears, and the
plants potted into pots a size larger; a larger
number of flower-stems will then be produced, aud
the result will be a much finer head of bloom. If
the plants have been strongly grown, a 7 or S-inch
pot will not be too large for the final shift, but
good decorative plants may be grown in 6-inch
pots A sharp outlook should be kept for green-
fly in its favourite hiding-place, the under-side of
the bottom leaves. At this time of the year they
are few iu number, aud may be dealt with by
the finger aud thumb; but if undetected, they
remain until the warmer weather arrives, when
they increase iu number with marvellous rapidity,
and it is then a difficult matter to thoroughly
eradicate them on account of a way they have of
taking up their quarters in the interior of the
pouch-like flower.

Bulbs and Floieering Shrubs in Pots. — Introduce
batches of these into heat as may be required.
The forcing must be gradual to produce the best
results, and all bulbs should be brought forward
in an intermediate temperature before being intro-
duced into the forcing-house. Rhododendrons,
Ghent Azaleas, Lilac, Staphylea eolcbica. Spiraea
arguta, Deutzia gracilis, Gueldres Rose, Hydrangea

paniculata, Kalmias, &c, may be placed in a
vinery or Peach-house which is being started,
where the gradually-increasing temperature and
moist atmosphere will meet their requirements
perfectly.

Gesncrri t xonit nsist — Few winter-flowering plants
are more easily grown or more effective than the
above. The velvety foliage alone is beautiful,
covered, as it is, with shining red hairs, and when
to this is added the strong trusses of rich orange-
red flowers, the whole effect is very striking, and
this is particularly the case under artificial light.
The flower-spike lengthens out and produces a
succession of flowers over a considerable time.
Plants that are now coming iuto flower may be
assisted by occasional applications of weak liquid-
manure, bearing in mind that an overdose would
injure the fine hair-like roots.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Barnet.

Preparations for Forcing. — It will be necessary
to hurry the completion of preparations for forcing
early Carrot, Potatos, Seakale, &c. Get together
sufficient leaves and manure, and turn them over
twice or thrice, mixing them thoroughly together
before making up the hot-beds. Have the brick-
work of the pits well cleaned, and give it a good
lime-washing. If the brickwork needs any pointing,
this should be effected before the lime- washing is
commenced. Clean the glass and the woodwork
with a view to destroy any insects there harboured,
and to facilitate the admittance of light to the
young plants. In making hot-beds, aim to secure a
mild lasting heat, and ram the materials very
tightly together, especially in the corners and along
the sides. Do not plant the tubers or sow the
seed before you have ascertained the exact heat,
which at the surface should uot exceed 75°. The
soil for most purposes should be light and moderately
rich. It must not be thought that any old pre-
viously-used potting-soil is sufficiently good for
early vegetables. A sweet fresh compost is the
best, and this may be used again for another batch
of plants following the early vegetables.

Asparagus. — Batches of roots should be lifted at
certain intervals, and placed closely together over a
gentle heat. Cover them with soil or leaf-mould
to the depth of 3 inches. Give a gentle watering
with tepid water through a rose-can, and keep the
frame moderately close for a few days. Do not,
however, force this vegetable severely. The grass
should be ready for use in about twenty days. A
temperature of 00° will be ample, as when the
young heads are well above the soil the flavour will
be greatly improved and the colour better if a little
fresh air be admitted daily.

Seakale. — If pots have been over the Seakale
crowns and covered to a reasonable depth with
prepared fermenting material, it will be necessary
to see that the heat does not become excessive, or
the young stalks will be so spindly as to be of little
use. All crowns it is intended to force in their
permanent quarters should be cleaned at ouce and
then covered with leaf-mould or ashes, the material
first named is the better of the two. Seakale com-
mences to grow naturally very early in the spring,
and if the crowns be not kept dark from the very
first they will fail to bleach. Those crowns that
are to be lifted for forcing in tubs and pots, or
under the lower stage iu a Mushroom-house, may
be removed at once and kept in the dark until such
time as they are required. Retain the straight
young roots (thongs), and tie them in bundles for
making fresh plantations. Cut the upper end of
each straight across, but the lower end in a slanting
direction, that the planter may know how to set
each piece at the time of planting. Young pieces,
about 6 inches in length, with or without crowns,
will be found suitable.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By <\ Herrin-, Gardener, Dropinore, Maidenhead.
Pruning. — Where not already finished, the
pruning of the Apple, Pear, Plum, Apricot, and
Sweet Cherry trees should be finished without
delay. This remark applies to wall-trees as well as to
those standing in the open quarters and orchards.
Where the usual summer-pruning was carried out,
but little further will remain to be done. Bush or

pyramidal Pears and Apples should have the lead-
ing shoots shortened more or less, according to their
strength, weakly growths being cut back to one or
two eyes, and strong ones left almost at their full
length. If the leading branches are too numerous
and crowded to allow of light reaching the inner
portions of the crown, the worst placed of them
should be sawn off close or within half an inch of
the main stem of the tree, smoothing the cut sur-
faces afterwards with a knife, and painting with a
mixture of Stockholm-tar aud clay in about equal
proportions.

ilortllo Cherries, and Peaches and Neetarint*
may be taken last in regard to pruning and nailing ;
and where labour is not stinted, the two last may
be. taken down from the walls and made secure to
stakes placed about 1 foot distant (therefrom, with
a view to retarding the bloom. The trees may b •
left in this position until the buds are on the point
of expanding.

Gooseoerries and Currants should also be pruned
forthwith, especially where birds do not devour
the buds. With Gooseberries, little spurring back
is really necessary to ensure heavy crops of fruit if
the bushes are strong and healthy. My method of
late years has been to thin out the main branches,
cutting out aunually the oldest and worst placed
ones, and allowing sufficient space to pass the hand
through the bushes in gathering the fruits. A few
of the longest shoots are topped ; in this manner
the pruning takes less time, and very heavy crops
are obtained. Much the same kind of practice may
be followed with Red and Black Currants, although
the former are cut in rather more severely than
Gooseberries, the side-growths being spurred back to
two or three eyes, and the leading ones shortened
to about half their length. The larger branches are
thinned out annually, and strong young ones
afforded space. With Black Currants, thinning is
all that is necessary, strong young growths from
the base being encouraged. Iu gardens where bull-
finches abound, it is a difficult matter to preserve
the buds of the Gooseberry and Plum, and after
trying the spraying of the bushes with lime, soot,
and other mixtures, including paraffin aud Quassia
decoctions, I find there is nothing to equal the gun
loaded with dust-shot and half a charge of powder.
An old-fashioned plan sometimes practised for pre-
serving Gooseberry-buds from birds is to tie the
bushes into compact masses by passing string or a
given band round each, and drawing the branches
tightly together, and allow them to remain thus tied
up till the buds are bursting. Cuttings of Goose-
berries, Red and Black Currants, should be selected
now, if it be desired to increase the stock of plants.
Healthy shoots, about 15 inches in length, should
be chosen, and for Gooseberries and Red Currants
all the lower buds should be cut clean out, leaving
only four or five at the top. Xo buds should be
removed from Black Currant cuttings, a succession
of growths from the base being desired. These,
cuttings may lie laid in temporarily, or, if the land
is ready, and the weather suitable, they may be
planted forthwith in rows P2 inches apart, and
li inches asunder from cutting to cutting.

Crafting. — Preparations may be made for this
operation,' at least in so far as relates to taking the
shoots of varieties to be substituted for others less
worthy, and heading-back such trees as are to be
grafted. The heading-back may consist of leaving
0 to 12 inches beyond the point to which they will
be cut wdien grafted. The shoots for forming grafts
should be selected from quite healthy trees, and
be tied together in small bundles, labelled, and the
butt ends buried a few inches in the soil in a cool
place.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

Bj W Siruosell, Gavdener to tin- R,iglitHon. \V. H. Lono,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Early Strawberries. — Assuming that the earliest
batch nf plants were placed in a cool house in the
beginning of last month, these will now be showing
signs of activity, and requiring their removal to
another structure in which slightly higher tempe-
ratures are maintained. They need all the light
possible, and if stood on shelves, these are better
lined with wood-moss or freshly-cut turves, the
grassy side of which should be turned downwards.
As the plants advance into bloom, let all expanded
flowers be fertilised by hand, doing this every
morning wheu the blossoms are quite dry, aud the
pollen easily detached with a camcl's-hair pencil.
Unless this operation be carefully and regularly

January 14, 1899.]

THE Gu 1 R D EX Eli ,S" CHR OKICL E.

23

attended to, perfect berries are unobtainable. Once
the flowers are set, tbe plants may be pushed on
briskly in a Melon or Cucumber-house or in the
Pine-stove. A dressing of artificial manure applied
once a week will stimulate growth in berry and
leaf, similar results being obtained from alternate
applications of diluted farm-yard manure.

Successional batches. — A larger batch of plants
may now be brought indoors to succeed that already
started. Before the plants are placed in warmth,
the dead leaves and upper-crust of soil should be
removed, the latter being replaced with loam, leaf-
mould, a pinch of potash, and a table-spoonful of
bone-meal per plant. After a time the weekly
surface sprinkling of artificial manure may be
repeated as for the earlier batch. Royal Sovereign
is one of the best early varietiesfor present forcing,
and any newly -started vinery and Peach-house will
furnish just the right kind of conditions for succes-
sions until the shelves become shaded with the
foliage of the Vines, &c. A constant danger with
Strawberry plants in vineries and peaeheries, is
the spreading of red-spider from the former to the
Vines and Peach-trees. Before Strawberry plants
are placed in such structures, the under-sides of
the leaves should be'eoated with Howers-of-sulphur,
and the plants kept no longer in them than is
necessary.

Melons, — A large sowing in variety may now be
made in small pots filled with a sufficiently moist
loamy soil to support the seed through tbe ger-
minating period without the need of affording water.
One good seed should be placed in the centre of
each pot, or two if there is doubt about their ger-
minating power, the weaker plant being drawn out.
A brisk heat obtained either from a bed of tree-
leaves and stable-manure, or from hot-water pipes,
is necessary to ensure a satisfactory start.

Cucumbers. — What has been advanced with
respect to Melons, applies also to the Cucumber,
excepting that the compost used in filling up tin'
seed-pots should contain a good proportion of leaf-
mould, cocoa-nut fibre refuse, and sharp sand.
Earlier-raised plants maybe re-potted and returned
to the same frame or house in which they were
raised. In re-potting, the roots should be most
carefully handled, and the soil and the pots should
be made as warm as the bed out of which the
plants have come, any check arising from neglect
of this precaution being very slowly recovered from
at this season. Soils, decayed manure, and leaf-
mould for future pottiug or making of beds ought,
if not already done, to be brought under cover.

77/r Second Early Vinery. — If red-spider, mealy-
bug, or mildew caused trouble last year, the Vines
should be dressed with tar and clay, the best
known remedy to use against mealy-bug. This
dressing should be brought to the consistency of
thin paint, and be applied with a half-worn out
paint-brush to every part excepting the buds.
Sulphide of potassium or sulphate of iron are anti-
dotes for mildew and red -spider if used at a strength
of half-an-ounee to 1 gallon of warm water. This
should be brushed into every crevice after the
house has been thoroughly scrubbed down, the walls
lime-washed, and the upper-crust of the inner
borders cleared off.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. It Young, * >i < ■ 1 1 i- 1 Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Treatmi nt of the Houses during Fog. — The char-
acteristics of fog vary according to the districts in
which it occurs, those in the country far removed
from the Metropolis and large manufacturing towns
being more beneficial to certain classes of Orchids
than hurtful, and therefore fog of this kind need
not concern us ; but the one, more particularly
known as the "London" fog, a compound of
ordinary mist or vapour in which the injurious
gases evolved from coal-smoke are mixed, is ili.it
which has so many terrors for the cultivator of
Orchids. Its action is baneful in two directions,
first, it banishes daylight at a season usually when
sunlight is of short duration ; and secondly, the
sulphurous acid present in it spoil the plants, and
ruins the expanded and opening flowers, and some-
times the prospects of the future. To mitigate the
evils of a smoke-laden fog, there are a few simple
precautions which, if taken in time, allow of
Orchids coming through the foggy season with-
out much loss of flowers and buds, or other in-
jury-to the plants. The plants should be kept at

such times more dry than wet, the atmosphere also
should be fairly dry, and to this end damping
operations should be practiced as little as may he
desirable, so long as the plants do not suffer in
health. The temperatures of the various houses
should be kept just above the minimum during the
daytime, and if anything a trifle below it at night.
Of course, the grower cannot always know when
fog is coming on, and he cannot, therefore, be quite
prepared for it. As instance, it may follow a sunny
day, which may have been taken advantage of to
afford water to the plants, and damp down a little
more than usual. In such a case a higher tempera-
ture is necessary in order to get rid of the moisture
present in the air of the houses. It need hardly
be said that no air should be admitted by the
ventilators whilst a thick fog covers the district.

The Cattfa.ya-fiy and 'tit Grub. — One often hears
accounts from orchidists of the ravages wrought by
this exotic insect, Isosoma orchidearum (fig. 7), and
those who have not yet made its acquaintance, are
always interested to learn what it is like, and what
it does, and how its presence is made known. So
far as my observations go, the fly is a pale yellow-
coloured insect, with transparent wiugs, almost an
eight of an inch long. In the fly state it does no
actual harm, excepting that it deposits its eggs on
the growing mucilaginous tip of the root, which in
time become embedded in it, and as the grub

Fig i ua :\ 'mm: vui u, on cjattleya-fi r.

develops, a globular swelling is produced. To all
appearances these swellings do not arrest the growth
of the roots, for in many instances I have picked
five grubs from one protuberance, and the growing
part of the root has remained healthy. At first I
used to remove the roots on which eggs were laid,
doing thereby probably more harm than the grub ;
but uow I let them alone until the growing-point has
got a few inches beyond the affected part, and then
carefully pick out the grubs with a knife-point, and
thus, in most cases, save the roots from destruction.
The most harm is done when the eggs are laid in
the bud, which would, in the ordinary mauuer,
develop into a rhizome anil pseudo - bulb. Its
presence here is detected by an abnormally strong
break, the bud becoming two or three times the size of
that it should have, and if allowed to remain, it
would seldom extend beyond the bract stage, t he leafy
portions becoming quite crippled. The remedy for
this is to carefully remove the affected growth, so
that the plant may exert its energies in building up
the secondary bud which may exist upon it.
Although I have had, I might say, hundreds of
roots attacked during the past season, there has
only been one growth affected as described above.
Now that there is no pressure of work, the occu-
pants of the Cattleya-house should be examined
with a view to exterminate the grubs. Frequent

light fumigations all through the year, with XL-
All is a good means of keeping it under by destroy,
ing the fly.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonhirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester,

The. Home Nursery, — All who have much
planting to do know full well the advantage of having
trees and shrubs growing on the estate, either to
plant new shrubberies, &c., or to take the place of
those that may have become sickly or have died.
Those who contemplate making this usefid acces-
sory to a gentleman's place, should select a piece
of ground of good quality, fully exposed to the sun,
protected from the cold north and easterly winds,
and securely fenced against hares and rabbits.
The land should be well drained— artificially if not
naturally, and be trenched throughout, adding
accordingly to the richness of the soil, burnt ashes,
leaf-mould, and manure. A good stock of Hollies,
Berberis, Aucubas, Laurels, Phillyreas, Yews,
Cotoneasters, Privets, Lilacs, Laburnums, Cratsegus,
Viburnums, Spiraeas, Weigelas, and Box in varie-
ties should be secured in young examples, these
forming the groundwork of most sorts of ornamental
planting. Plants ranging from 1 to 2 feet are the
best size to plant in a nursery, and these should be
planted in rows sufficient distant apart to allow
men to pass between them in cleaning the ground,
&c. Let the best part of the ground be selected
for planting the choicer Conifers, viz., those with
glaucous, yellow and white variegation, and those
of handsome aspect. In planting afford sufficient
space from plant to plant to allow light to reach
them on all sides and give uniform growth, and
allow of sufficient soil coming away with the roots
when lifted.

Tin Reservi Garden. At this season let a piece
of open ground be prepared for parting and planting
such plants as will be needed for furnishing cut-
blooms, and thus save the specimens growing in
ornamental grounds and beds from disfigurement.
.Such plants as perennial Asters, Iris, Pseoiiies,
Oriental Poppies, also annual species of Phloxes,
Sweet Peas, Delphiniums, Eryngiums, Cimicifuga,
Bocconia cordata, Gypsophila, Statice latifolia,
( Jaillardias, Campanulas, Solomon's Seal, Helianthus
and Erigeron, these are easily grown, and effective
when cut and put up with their own foliage.

Trees with Coloured Bark. -Nothing brightens
Up the landscape so much in the winter as the.
beautiful bark of trees and shrubs, and though
there are many, such as the Japanese Wine-
berry, several of the Spiraeas, Roses, and Limes,
none can equal in brilliancy the bark of the
Cardinal and Yellow Willows, and the varieties
of Dogwood — Cornus sibirica and C. stolonifera,
syn. alba. The Willows are known under the
names of Salix cardinalis and S. rubra, red-twigged ;
and S. vitellina of a yellow hue. These can lie
grown into large trees, and are most effective when
planted amongst the Conifers as pollard trees by
the side of streams and ponds, and as bushes in the
pleasure-ground. They prefer a deep, not too rich,
soil, and one that is thoroughly drained. The
pollarded trees should be cut back every five, and
the bushes every third year ; propagate these by
dibhing in stout pieces about 18 inches long, dibbed
in nursery, Well watered in spring, they soon take
root, and grow into bushes and trees. The Birches
should not be forgotten, nor Acer pennsylvanictuii
(striatum), the Canada Poplar, the Tulip-tree,
Gymnocladus canadensis, and Bignonias (Catalpas).
Of Dogwood, the two varieties Cornus sibirica and
C. stolonifera are best planted in clumps and
masses. They require to be pruned back once in
three years. It is the young wood that produces
the tine-coloured bark ; C. sibirica has bark the
colour of red sealing-wax ; select a position in
planting facing west, as it is apt to have the youii^
shoots damaged by spring frosts. Propagation of
this can only be by layering, and the best month
for this is September. C. stolonifera (syn. alba) is
much hardier, can be grown either on outside of
copse or woodland. The bark of this resembles the
colour of Henri Jacoby Pelargonium ; in planting,
select positions where the sun can shine upon them.
This variety can be propagated as easily as Privit :
cut up in pieces 1 foot long, plant in rows : they
will be fit to transplant in the second year. They
do not like a too retentive soil, neither will they
stand drought. The wood of this makes pot-
baskets, and cau be used as withies for tying
bundles.

24

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 14, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, os weU as specimens andpUmU fir
miming, 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 wetk as possible, and duly signed by
the writer. If desired, the signature mil not be printed, but
kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does notundtr-
take to )]«;/ for any contributions, or to return unused com-
■munirations or illustrations, unless by special arrangement.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfiMy receim and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, oj
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, £c. ; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Local News.— t'omspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor carlg intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of em.g matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturist.'.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

Jan. 16-^

SATURDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY, Jan. 19

Jan. 14— Royal Botanic Society Meet.

/National Chrysanthemum Society

Executive Committee Meet.
I Shirley Gardeners' Improvement
■ (^ Society Meet.
- t Loughborough Gardeners' Improve-
•'^•''X merit Society Meet.
Jan. 18— Renfrewshire Gardeners Meet.

Linnean Society Meet,

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Inati-
liilion: Annual Meeting, and
Election of Pensioners, at "Simp;
son's," Strand, London.

SALES.

(Hoses, Lilies, Hardy Perennials,
MONDAY, Jan. 16-j &c., at Protheroe 4 Morris,

Rooms.

TUESDAY.

T . .-(Hardy Border Plants and Bulbs,
' ' l'\ at Prother V Morris' Rooms.

WEDNESDAY, Jan. IS

THURSDAY,

Roses. Shrubs, Arc., at
& .Morris' Rooms.

(Japanese Lilies, Palm Seeds, Con-
I tinental Plants, Greenhouse
| Plants,
I, rrothen

( Carnations, Spiraeas, Iris, Roses,
Jan. 19< &c., at Protheroe & Morns
L - Rooms.

/Hardy Climbers, Hardy Border
{ Plants, arid Bulbs, at Protheroe
Jan. 20 < A: Morris' Rooms.

I Imported and Established Orchids'
V at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

Average Tp.mperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
. Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswiek.— 36 9

Actual Temperatures: —

London.— January 11 (8p.m.): Max., 44°; Min., 88°.
■Provinces. — January 11 (li p.m.): Max., 44°, Cromer:
Min., 38", York.

The

Frequent mention has of late
Physic Garden been made in the daily papers

at Chelsea. 0f t)le physic Garden of the
Society of Apothecaries, at Chelsea, long under
the curatorship of the late Mr. Thomas Moore.
The history of this interesting relic has been given
repeatedly in our columns, with illustrations of
its principal features. ( )f late years it has
fallen into decadence, and the Society of
Apothecaries became desirous of being relieved
of what had become a burden to it, the more so
as in virtue of comparatively recent legislation,
botany no longer forms part of the curriculum
and study demanded of medical students.

The Charity Commissioners, to whom the So-
ciety applied, have framed a scheme for the ad-
ministration of the garden, which consists of
:H acres, established by Sir Hans Sloane by an
indenture dated February 28, 1721-22, with the
curator's residence and other buildings, a yearly
sum not exceeding eight hundred pounds for
maintenance payable out of the income of the
City Parochial Foundation (as set up by the Acts
of 1883 and 1897), a yearly sum of not less than
one hundred and fifty pounds out of moneys
voted by Parliament, and the subsidiary gifts of

John Meeres (1726) and Mrs. Ann Rand
(1757).

The garden is to be maintained for promoting
the study of botany, with special regard to the
requirements of (a) general education ; (b)
scientific instruction and research in systematical
botany and vegetable physiology ; and (c)
instruction in technical pharmacology as it con-
cerns the culture of medicinal plants. The
scheme provides for the erection of new offices,
lecture rooms, and a physiological laboratory,
the appointments of a curator and a head gar-
dener, the establishment of lecturesupon botany,
and the maintenance of collections of living
plants for teaching purposes. The students
and professorial staff of the Royal College of
Science are to be accorded free admission into
the garden, with use of the collections, lecture-
rooms, and appliances, so long as the sum of
£150, or more, shall be paid in that behalf to
the Trustees of London Parochial Charities, as
trustees of the re-modelled charity. The com-
mittee of management is to consist of fifteen
persons, nominated by the London Parochial
Charities' Trustees (eight), the Treasury, Royal
Society, Society of Apothecaries, Pharmaceutical
Society of Great Britain, and other public
bodies (one apiece). The trustees are em-
powered to contribute a sum, as yet undeter-
mined, for the equipment of the garden and for
new buildings.

We are specially pleased to see that scientific
instruction and research in systematic botany
and vegetable physiology are to be provided.
Thirty or forty years ago vegetable physiology
was at a very low ebb indeed in this country.
Histology, or the investigation of the minute
anatomy of plants by means of the microscope,
was in arrears in comparison with its condition
in other countries ; and the natural history of
the so-called rlowerless plants was scarcely
studied here at all. We are not going to con-
trast the present state of tilings with the past
further than to say, that the pendulum has
swung to the full in the opposite direction, and
that systematic botany is now-a-days, in spite
of its great importance, scarcely studied at all.
Without in the slightest degree derogating from
the other departments of the science in which
such great progress has been made, we may
lament the little attention now paid to the
knowledge of plants in general, and of their
affinities and uses. Now-a-days the student
gets to know about parenchyma and scleren-
chyma, centrosomes and mitoses, when he is
unable it may be to recognise the botanical
differences between the flower of a Cabbage and
that of a Cucumber.

The medical profession till lately furnished
the great majority of our botanists. They
took servioe in India and the Colonies, took
part in exploring expeditions, and they con-
tributed enormously to our knowledge of the
botany of the globe. It is to be feared that the
medical men of the future will not be so well
equipped for this purpose as their predecessors
were, and that systematic and economic botany
will suffer proportionately. The matter is also
of much consequence to horticulturists, who are
expected to be familiar to some extent with the
leading Natural Orders of plants, their relation-
ships, points of difference, and economic uses.
It is to be hoped, then, that the old Chelsea
garden will not be given up wholly to micro-
tomes and staining agents, but that the old
traditions will be kept up in the shape of prac-
tical instruction in systematic botany.

There are still some among US, who recall with

pleasure and gratitude the lectures given in the
garden by the late Dr. Lindley. Attendance
on those lectures involved a long walk from*
the centre of London in the early morning
before steamboats or omnibuses were running.
On arrival at Chelsea about half-past 8, the
students found the Professor prepared to give
a lecture analogous to the "clinical" lectures
the pupils were accustomed to in the hos-
pitals. Just as the physician took for the
subject of his comments and explanations
any cases that might be under observation in
the wards at that time, so Dr. Lindley availed
himself of any plant of interest that might be
in bloom in the garden. With the aid of the
blackboard, he explained its structure, showed
wherein it differed from its neighbours, pointed
out its relationships, near or remote, and indi-
cated its use for medical or other practical pur-
poses. It may be imagined how fresh and
interesting these lectures were in contrast to
the stereotyped courses given in the college
lecture-rooms, which were, for the most part,
a mere hash-up of the information given
in the text-books. Of late years Mr. J. G.
Baker delivered set courses of lectures in the
same garden, which were much appreciated.
We earnestly hope that in the rejuvenated
Physic-garden means will be taken to provide
adequate instruction in systematic and morpho-
logical botany, in their relation to economic
uses.

Arundinaria Falconeri eyn. Thamnocala-
MUS FALCONERI. — We afford our readers an
illustration (tig. 8) of a clump of Arundinaria
Falconeri, about 20 feet high, growing in the
gardens of J. J. Rashlf.ich, Esq.-, Menabilly,
Cornwall. This species of Bamboo is tall and very
beautiful, and in favoured spots in these islands it
grows to a good height, but dwindles to 8 feet aud
less where frost cuts it down to the roots, and finally
disappears. This appears to be Mr. Freeman -
Mitford's experience in the Midlands. The
culms are slender in proportion to their height, and
both stems and foliage are of a brilliant green, and
the internodes are covered with a white waxy
bloom. The leaves are about 4 inches long,
narrow, pointed with stria- on the upper surface,
and inconspicuous transverse veins on the lower
surface. The edges of the leaves are slightly ser-
rated.

LlNNEAN SOCIETY. — An evening meeting will
be held on Thursday, January 19, 1899, at 8 p.m.,
when the following papers will be read : — I. " New
Peridiniaeea> from the Atlantic," by Mr. G. E.
Murray, F.R.S., F.L.S., andMissF. G. Whitting.
II. " On the Structure of Lepidostrobus," by Mr.
Arthur J. Maslen. III. " Some Observations on
the Caudal Diplospondyly of Sharks," by Dr. W. G.
Ridewood, F.L.S.

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institu-
tion. —We remind our readers that the sixtieth
Annual General Meeting and Election of Pensioners
of this Institution will take place at "Simpson's,"
101, Strand, London, on Thursday, January 19, at
3 P.M. ; and that the usual annual friendly supper
of members and friends will be held at the same
place and on the same date at 6 p.m., when Mr.
George Monro, of Covent Garden, member of
the Committee of Management, will preside. Any
friends who desire to be present, and have not
intimated their desire to the Secretary, should do
so on or before Monday, January 16, at the offices,
175, Victoria Street, Londou, S.W.

"THE ROSARIANS' YEAR-BOOK."— One of the

pleasantest annuals that "awakens, blossoms, ripens,
and sleeps," till the time comes round for its suc-
cessor to appear, is the Rosarians' Year-Book

Janmary 14, ISM.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

25

(Be.mrose & Sons, 23, Old Bailey). Twenty years
have elapsed since hirst the little book appeared,
so that the series constitutes a valuable historical
document. The present issue opens with a good
portrait and a biographical sketch of Mr. R.
Harkness. The prowess of the Messrs. Harknkss,
father and sons, has been not a little remarkable,
as evidenced by the record of Challenge Trophies,
and other prizes secured by them since 1887.
Whether at Bedale in Yorkshire, or in the Home
Counties at Hitchin, success waits upon them ; and
it is clear this success is mainly due to the personal
element. A cheery article is that of the Rev. A.
Foster-Melliar, detailing his experiences as an
exhibitor :— "I think, "says Mr. Foster-Melliar,

of London. Mr. Mawi.ky, as usual, contributes a
valuable paper on the relation of the climate of the
Hose-year to the growth and quality of the Roses.

The Rev. C. Wolley DOD.— The last volume
of the Garden is dedicated to this gentleman, of
whom an excellent portrait is given.

"FLORILEGIUM HAARLEMENSE." — The last
number of this publication, devoted to the illustra-
tion of the best and most widely-known bulbous
plants, contains coloured figures of the following : —
Hyacinth Mont Blanc, single white, whose history
is not known. Tulips : 1, Joost van der Vondel,
crimson ; 2, Joost van der Vondel, white ; of these

During tjje recent famine he did much to alleviate
the suffering of the distressed, by providing
relief works for the unemployed, and by giving
additional pay to his numerous employes all
through the famine period. He took a great interest
in agriculture and horticulture. His famous
garden at Durbungah contains a choice collection of
plants, and an unrivallod collection of Mangoes and
other fruit-trees."

The Botanical Magazine.— The plates issued
for the present mouth include representations of the
followiug plants : —

Acalypha hispida, Burmaun, t. 7632. — This is the
very remarkable aud ornamental plant described in

Fig. 8. — abt/ndinaria falcon eri (height 15 feet), from the garden of .t. jr. rashleigh, esq., menabilly. (see p. 24.)

" I think when anyone has a really extra -tine aud
perfect bloom, something quite out of the common,
that he really ought to have it photographed." We
share that opinion ; and we go further and say,
that the possessor ought really to send a copy to
the gardening journals, that the representation of
a "' standard or model flower may be set before the
lieges." Is it heretical to suggest further, that
some "shocking examples" should also be photo-
graphed, not for the encouragement of others, but
to contribute to the history of the Rose 1 What
opportunities for advancing knowledge are wantonly
thrown away, as if the acquirement and diffusion
of knowledge were not a much finer thiug than the
winning of a prize ! No exhibitor will admit this,
we are sure. Dr. Shackleton gives a list of Roses
which he has found to succeed in the outer suburbs

single early Tulips the history is not recorded.
Iris hispanica: 1, Blanche superbe, best white;
2, Chrysolora, light yellow ; 3, Sappho, purplish,
with yellow falls ; 4, Coquette des blanches, soft
lilac. The typical blue species grows wild in Spain ;
the yellow variety in Portugal.

Decease of H.H. the Maharaja of Dar-

BHANQA. — One of our Indian correspondents writes
us as follows : " Doubtless many readers of the
Gardeners' Chronicle, and especially those who
have been in any way connected with India, will
regret to hear of the death, which occurred on the
17th ult., of His Highness the Maharaja of Dar-
bhanga. Maharaja Sir Lachmeswar Singh,
Bahadur, was well known throughout the Indian
Empire for his knowledge and benevolence.

our columns in 1S9G as A. Sanderi, which name we
expect it will still bear in gardens. It appears
that A. hispida has not until now been met with iu
a wild state, the plaut figured aud described in old
books relating to Malayan botauy being cultivated
only. Messrs. Sander & Co. received their plauts
from the islands of the Bismarck Archipelago, where
it was found by Micholitz. At present only the
female plant is in cultivation, and its long, pendu-
lous, crimson spikes are produced throughout the
entire year. It is probable that wheu the male
plant is introduced and pollination is effected, that
the duration of the brilliant colour will be limited
by the production of fruit and seed.

Lewisia Tweedyi, B. Robinson, t. 7633. — A
remarkable Portulaccad from the mountains of
Washington State, where it grows at an elevation

26

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 14, 1899.

of 6,000 to 7, 000 feet. The plant is of tufted habit,
with numerous stalked, ovate, oblong, somewhat-
fleshy, glabrous leaves, from the axils of which
proceed flower-stalks exceeding the leaves.in length,
and each bearing one or two S-petalled flowers,
each about 3 inches in diameter, with the boll-
shaped or spreading corolla of a pale yellow colour,
passing into bright pink at the tips and margins.
It flowered in the Alpine-house at the Royal
Gardens,

Li/iiun rubellum, Baker, t. 7634.— This is the
beautiful Lily introduced into commerce by Messrs.
Wallace, of Colchester, and described by Mr.
Baker in our columns -189S, p. 321, fig. 128.

GautiJu ria trichophylla, Royle, t. 7635.— A pretty
little rock-plant, native of W. China, and of the
Himalayas. It is a low-growing evergreen shrub,
with small ovate bristle-margined leaves, and small
pink bell-shaped flowers. - Introduced to Kew by
the Hon. Charles Ellis, of Frensham Hall,
Haslemere.

Meconopm heterophylla, Bentham, t. 7636. — An
ally of the Cambrian Poppy, Mecouopsis cambrica,
the sole European species, as the present plant is
the sole American representative of a genus which
has many species in the Himalaya mountains, and
in Western China. M. heterophylla was originally
discovered by DOUGLAS in California. The leaves
are deeply cut, and the flowers of an orange-red
colour, with a purplish zone in the centre.

The San Jose Scale. — At the last meeting

of the Berlin Horticultural Society, Professor Fran k
read a paper of great interest on the "San Jose
Scale and its allies." Professor Frank said that
zoologists have an idea that the Aspidiotus con-
chfeformis, which is widely dispersed in Europe,
is but a geographic form of the American Aspidiotus
perDiciosus. To decide this question, Professor
Frank made a special journey last summer to
those countries which have a similar climate to
that of those American regions where the San Jose
scale makes the greatest devastation, viz., to Tirol,
especially to the valley of the river Etsch and
Eisark, and also to South Baden. The result of these
investigations was to establish the fact that there is
not the slightest difference between the Aspidiotus
concfueformis of Meran, Botzen, &c, and that (if
Eastern Prussia. So this is a true species, and
different from the Americau oue. Beside^ this,
Professor Frank gave particulars respecting the
reproduction of the scale-insect. He found that
Aspidiotus conchajformis and ostrea-formis have
but one generation yearly, and that oue female has
a progeny of thirty-five to fifty descendants.
American writers say that the San Jose scale has
three generations yearly, aud that each female
breeds about 600 young scales. To examine into
this remarkable difference. Professor Frank
received at three different times, in the spring, at
the end of June, and in the autumn, twigs of
Peach directly from America, densely beset with
the true San Jose scale. Investigation showed
that on the twigs sent in spring there were nume-
rous females aud males, as also young chrysalids in
different states of development. On the twigs in
June the adult males were absolutely lacking,
also the adult females, only young scales in great
quantity were present. On the twigs in autumn
there were again females and males, and young
chrysalids. From this Professor Frank concludes
that the San Jose scale has also but one generation
yearly. Besides this, he investigated the females,
and found, not 600, but about thirty ovules and
young in them, a number which is iu accordance
with that found iu the European scales. His de-
cision, therefore, is that the American theory is au
erroneous one. It is questionable whether the San
Jose scale can live in Europe at all. Dr. Udo
Dammcr, Urosse Lkhlerfehle.

Roman Hyacinth.— Mr. G. H. Griffin, of
the Seymour Nurseries, Anerley, kindly sends us a
bulb of Roman Hyacinth with no fewer than eight
spikes of bloom. The plant has been greatly
admired, but we are not sure, that this proliferous

tendency is to lie encouraged, inasmuch as the
additional number of spikes is due to premature or
precocious development of flower-stems, which
should not have been produced till another year.

Stock-taking : December. — Month by month

we have given the Board of Trade statistics con-
cerning foreign and colonial trade, so far as it has
been in the least eouuected with horticulture. To-
day we have to record the fact that the imports for
the month of December exceed those for the same
period in the preceding year by £3,998,072 — that is
to say, whilst the total value of imports for the
last month in 1897 was £41,334,536, those for the
twelfth month of 189S footed up £45,332,608— a
most satisfactory iuerement resulting. The only
articles noted iu the decrease column are in
animals, living, for food, = £54,940 ; dutiable
articles of food and drink, = £256,483 ; chemicals,
&c, = £22,456; miscellaneous articles, =£17,789.
Against a decrease in Wheat and flour there is an
increase in Barley of £341, 5S9 : Indian Corn went
up by £339,027 ; fresh beef added to its value by
£135,361 ; hams, £43,942 ; butter went up £60,863 ;
Hops increased by £196,519 ; the value of sugar
imported went up by £222,397 ; Cocoa increased
£26,316 ; Tea gave way by £63,728 ; and Coffee,
£104,099; the article of tobacco shows a gain of
£54,499. The following figures are culled from the
summary table : —

Imports.

Total value

(A.) Articles of food
and drink — duty
free

(B.) Articles of foad
•Y drink — dutiable

Raw materials for
textile manufac-
tures

Raw materials for
sundry industries \
and manufactures 3,797,752

(A.) Miscellaneous
articles 1,593,153

(li.) Parcel Post ... \ v.\j.'j7

1S97.

[tllt'eivnre.

£ £

41,334,536 4o,'332,608

14,337,976
2,821,07$

8,257,7®

15,981,81]
2,364,560

£
+3,098,072

+1,643,835
256, ls:i

9,593.105 +1,835,318

4,090,759

1,575,384

"7,885

+293,007

-I7,7s'.i
+18,628

The figures respecting fruits, roots, and vegetables
show the following very interesting results : —

Imports.

]sn7.

1898.

Difference

Fruits, raTv :—

Apples ..,

.. bush.

410,954

li4L\27S

+281,324

Grapes ...

9)

lttiS4

13,305

+11,671

Lemons ...

1)

130,120

228,484

+ 84,355

Oranges ...

II

1,SH5,013

2,281,712

+415,699

Pears

11,802

IS, '.151

+7,059

Phims ...

.1

fi04

33S

—260

Cnenumer&l id

.,

7S.S27

80,520

+ 1,69:!

Onions

..

435,070

494;37?

+59,300

Potatos

,. cwt.

472,867

7a,3.r)4

-897,513

Vegetables, raw,

■ated ..

unenu*

. Willi.-.

€73,021

£124,601

+ £51,580

The reader will be glad to know that, the imports
for the year show a value of £470,604,198 against
£451,028,960 for 1897; au increase amouuting to
£19,575,238.

Thf. Exports
for the last month foot up at £20,97S,4O8, agaiost
£19,320,156 for the corresponding period in 1897 —
an increase of £1,658,252. The items of decrease
are of £31,S10 in articles of food and drink ; metals
and articles manufactured therefrom except
machinery, £199,941 ; and in chemicals, &e. ,
£20,560. The largest increase is oue of £610,814 iu
yarns and textile fabrics ; machinery and mill-work
went up by £601,253; raw materials figured for
£381,386. Orders can now be sent speedily from
Khartoum to Manchester and Birmingham — goods
from these centres, we are informed, are begin ning
to ornament the inhabitants of what was a desert
but a few months since.. Influential journals in St.

Petersburg and Moscow are busily lamenting now
that caravans with British and British-Indian goods
are driving all the Russian wares from the markets
of Central Asia ; and doubtless Indian aud English
products will soon show up in the Philippines. The
figures for 189S prove that we exported therein to
the value of £233,390,792— against £234,219,708 in
1897; a falling off to the tune of £82S,916. We
did hope, aud expressed the hope once or twice,
t hat the close of the year would show an equalisa-
tion of values, but this has not been the case.

WINTER ACONITES. — Some surprise has been
expressed at the non-appearance of this welcome
little winter flower this year. Will some reader
who takes note of the date of flowering of this
species kindly tell us on what day they first noticed
its appearance.

Lady Louisa Fortescue.— The death of this
lady at an advanced age took place at Torquay on
the 9th inst. Her estate at Dropmore, near Maiden-
head is well kuown for its fine collection of Conifers.
The estate, we believe, passes to the only surviving
son.

A Strike of Nursery Employes. — On
Monday morning the employes of Messrs. PALMER
& Co., Ltd., nurserymen, Annan, came out on
strike for au advance of wages. The men were
being paid 15s. per week, working ten hours per day
in the summer, and eight in the win ter. and they
requested to be paid in future at the rate of +/. per
hour. At au interview with the employers ou
Monday morning an offer of Is. per week rise
was made ; but this was refused, and the men
remained idle all day. At night another interview
took place, wheu an offer of 2s. rise was made
provisionally, pending a meeting of the directors
to be held this week. The men accepted the offer
aud resumed work next morning.

Interesting to Amateur Gardeners.— A
unique law case was contested last mouth iu South
Australia. The plaintiff is au amateur gardener
residing iu Adelaide, and had planted a row of
Pepper-trees (Schiuus Molle) about IS inches
from the fence. As the trees grew, the owner
trimmed the branches ou one side, while his
neighbour, the defendant, attended to the other.
The roots of the Pepper-trees advauced as far as
(iO feet into the defendant's nursery garden, and
naturally proved troublesome by taking away plaut -
food from his trees aud shrubs. A trench was dug
along the fence, a quautity of coarse salt emptied
iu and filled up again, with the result that a
number of the trees were killed. The owner sued
for damage to his trees, aud the defendant put in a
counter-claim for damage of shrubs in his garden
aud nursery. The Chief Justice, before whom the
Case was tried, visited the spot aud made careful
examinations in the presence of lawyers aud experts,
aud after expressing surprise that no case of the
kind had ever arisen before in England or Australia,
advised the parties to come together, his opiuiou
b.-iug to the effect that, — 1. A man has a perfect,
right to plaut trees close to .his boundary, but if
the limbs overhang the neighbour's property, the
neighbour can cut oft' the overhanging part, or give
the owner notice to do so. If he cuts off the
branches, he must, if required, throw them into
the owner's property. He has no right to them.
2. The same rule applies to the roots. The neigh-
bour may dig a trench and cut the roots ou his
boundary, or he may call on the owner to prevent
them from trespassing iuto his property ; aud if the
roots are allowed to trespass, he can claim damages
if any is done. But he must not apply any foreign
substauce to the soil, even iu his own property,
which will spread into the owner's land, or will lie
cam nil by the sap into the trees and so damage or
kill them. The case thus resolved itself iutothis: The
plaintiff was entitled to damages for the destruc-
tion of his trees. The defendant was entitled to
damages to the amount of the loss he had sustained
from trespass of the roots of the plaintiff's trees,
and should the latter continue to allow the roots of
his trees to trespass, the defendant could recover

jANCARr 14, 1890.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

27

further damages. The parties conferred, and
decided to stop proceedings, bear their own losses,
and pay their own coats, and the plaintiff promised
to remove the Pepper-trees.

Importation of Plants into Bulgaria.—

The importation of living plants, with the excep-
tion of Vines, is allowed from all districts and
countries not infested with Phylloxera ; still, the
sanction of the Bulgarian Minister of Trade and
Agriculture must first he obtained. The imports
may enter only at the customs towns aud ports of
Tsaribrod, Sofia, Harmanly, Varna, Burgas and
Rustchuk, and they must be accompanied iu all
cases with a statement from the country of origin
that Phylloxera is not present. Such statement is
also required with imported fruits and vegetables.
The importation of Potatos aud Onions, as well as
all parts of Vines, is forbidden, whilst the through
transit of these goods, if the permission of the
Minister be obtained in advance, is allowed. All
plants, with the exception of those in Hower-pots,
must be freed from the soil, and lie bound in linen
and packed in chests or baskets.

Colonial Publications.— We have received

the following publications : — .4 grirultiiral (urjii,
of Nor Smith Wales, October, 1898, with articles on
Indigenous Vegetable Drugs, .T. H. Maiden ; Chat
about Wattles, J. H. Maiden ; Insect and Fungus
Diseases of Fruit-trees, and their Treatment,
Messrs. Allen, Blunno, Froggatt k Guthrie ;
Orchard Notes, &c. — Queensland Agricultural
Journal, November, 1898, with papers on Disease
iu Pine-apple Plants, G. F. Gerler; Contributions
to the Flora of Queensland, and Plants reputed
poisonous to Stock, by F. M. Bailey. — Nova Scotia
Provincial Gfovernment Crop Report, November,
1898. The crops were favourable as regards hay
and Wheat, iu spite of heavy summer rains. The
Potato harvest was poor, but the prices obtained
were poor. — Agricultural Resources of Nova Scotia.
B. W. Chipman. A valuable pamphlet, speakiug
briefly of the geographical conditions aud climate
of the colony, aud of the value of its various dis-
tricts for Wheat, hay, and fruit • culture. The
necessary hint is conveyed that Nova Scotia is no
ground for the pioneer, but is in a highly ad-
vanced state as regards civilisation, education, and
customs generally.

Publications Received.— Journal of tht Board

of Agriculture, December, 1898. Contains papers
relating to Grain harvest of 1898 : Thinning of
woods, J. Nisbet ; English orchards : Consumption
of Potatos in the United Kingdom, and allied
subjects. Fruit Preservation (Technical Educa
tion Committee, Kent County Council). An
important "interim report," by Mr. W. P. Wright,
upon experiments on the cold storage of fruit,
conducted at the works of Messrs. J. & E. Hall,
Dartford. — Sonderabdruch an* Zeitachrifl fur
Pfianzenhranhheiten, Prof. Dr. Paul Sorauer.
Botanisches Centvalblatt, No. 52, aud the Index. -
A nwiles Agronomiques, December 25, 1898.- R< mti
d, V Horticulture Beige, Jan. 1, 1S99.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Beavmontia purpurea, Lindley, R&one de I'Hcrticulture
Beige, January.

Bessera. eleoa,ns, Retfue de VHbrticulturt Beige, January 1.

Cattleya labi at a, new form, Wither tllustrierte Garten
Zeitvng, l. 4, a form in which the segments art- marked with
white spots.

Fuchsia, Monarch, Garden, December 31,

Un ARVILLEA grandiflora, Revm Korticole, January 1.

Milla. bifloea, Revue de I Horticulture Beige, January 1.

NeriNe undulata, Revue de V Horticulture Beige, January 1.

P-eonies : Marcakkt Attwood, white'; The Mikado,
crimson. Garden, January 7.

Home Correspondence.

a WORD ABOUT MUSHROOMS.— Parts of our
park have been down more than a hundred years,
and no; a Mushroom was to ba found on it list
a annul ; another part- was laid down about forty

years ago, this portion produced a few, but other
portions that were laid down ten years since, were
white with them. The whole of the park is cut for
hay and then fed by cows. One would have
thought the older parts would produce most
Mushrooms, but such does not appear to be
the case. About two years ago I procured some
spawn from a good firm of seedsmen, and put
it over a little meadow in lumps, about a yard
apart. I raised the turf about 2 inches deep to
insert the spawn, and afterwards made it firm by
treading. Not a Mushroom has appeared since.
Can our Mushroom-experts explain these matters ?
X. Kneller, Malshanger.

OUT-OF-DOORS MUSHROOMS.— It may interest
your readers to know that I have picked two good
dishes of Mushrooms in the park at Newnham
House this month, viz., on Thursday, the 5th inst.,
and to-day, the 9th, and have every prospect of
another good dish in a few days, if the mild weather
continues. I also picked several during December.
M, F., Newnham House, WaUingford.

DECORATING FRUIT AND POINT-JUDGING.— I
have been watching with interest the expressions of
opinion on point-judging at the great Grape prize
at Shrewsbury, &c. , which have appeared in the
Gardeners' Chronicle. Everyone who knows the
energetic committee of that show may rest assured
that they will appoint such men as judges who are
capable of apportioning the points in the case of
every bunch of Grapes adjudged ; and I fear that
the finest and best collection of Grapes will only
be awarded a 2nd or 3rd place. I am not in favour
of decorating a collection of Grapes or any other
fruit, and the points allowed in the schedule for
such decorations are not considered to be just by
gardeners, and I fear that it will come to be a
disputed and a vexed question, as these decorative
articles may not he the property of, or may not
have been grown by the exhibitor. What a disap-
pointment it will be to a hard-working gardeuer
who, after giving unremitting attention to his Vines
for a period of twelve months, to find that his
collection lias lost the coveted grand prize by a few
points iu the matter of decoration. There is
nothing to hinder an exhibitor, if he so chooses,
employing a trained florist, male or female, in the
decoration of his Urapes ; how unfair, however, to
the "practical," who despises such meretricious
aids ! This fashion of decorating a dessert-table
may be new to the public, hut I hope it will soon
die a natural death. If decoration is to be eon-
tinned, let it be done by the Society ; or let a prize
for decoration be given independently of that given
to the fruit, or if done by the exhibitor let all
plants, (lowers, Jfcc., be growu by him, the same as
his fruit. .-1. Kirk, Norwood Gardens, Alloa, N.B.

LARGER EXHIBITS REQUIRED AT OUR FLOWER-
SHOWS. — As an exhibitor of several years experi-
ence, [ cannot agree with the suggestions of your
correspondent "A.J. 1... Wyfold Court," in the
largely increased numbers constituting a dish of
fruits or vegetables. Fifty pods of Beans or Peas
would represent as much ability in their production
as would twice the number, and the danger of such
an extension furnishes ground for a decrease rather
than an increase, either of quality or effective
arrangement. Instead of advocating 1J dozen,
where dozens are now common, I would rather
reduce the number to six, a provision that would
not only ensure a greater, because more uniform
effect, but an increased number of exhibitors.
Three Cauliflowers, Celery, or Cabbages, make a
neater exhibit than four or six, aud are much more
easily arranged. In the ease of cooking Apples, I
consider five fruits ample for a dish, niue or twelve
are both awkward to arrange, aud seldom look neat
after they are staged. Six fruits each of Peaches,
Apricots, Nectarines, Pears, and dessert Apples are
quite enough, and a dozen Figs or Plums are ample.
The compensation to the exhibitor in a proportioned
increase of prize value is not likely to be taken
serious account of by societies, the tendency more
often being in the opposite directiou. W. S.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AS BUSH PLANTS. — Trade
catalogues contain lists of decorative varieties of
Chrysanthemums, but these only go to prove the
little interest taken by the trade in catering for the
wants of those who cultivate Chrysanthemums
exclusively for home decoration. We are not
satisfied to grow varieties whose only merit is that
they produce a quantity of small flowers. The
flowers will of necessity he less in size than show

blooms, but we have no doubt as to where they
appear to best advantage, e.g., on our bush plants.
It is a matter of surprise that no large trade grower
looks after the hundreds of fine varieties which,
after a brief existence, are discarded, because thejf
have failed under the " big-bloom" system to pro-
duce flowers according to the mop-head standard.
Many such discarded sorts had they been allowed
to grow more naturally would have produced six or
eight true flowers per plant, without " coarseness."
Under the rational system we should hear less than
we do about "coarse" blooms. With the object of
assisting others who may be placed similarly to
myself, I give a list of varieties which have beeii
fully tested, and found to answer well under t li > •
bush-system of culture. It will lie noted that a
few well-known sorts are left out, such as Edith
Tabor, the Viviand Morel family, Pallauza, Aus-
tralian Gold, ( 'olonel Smith, Pride of Madford,
Madame Ad. Chatin, &c. These have not, for
various reasons, been found to answer when growu
as bush plants.

.Mutual Friend

Emily Silsbury

Elsie Teichmann

Phoebus

Mons. Pankoucku

t lintnii ChaltoiH

Source d'Or

Golden Gate

E. G. Hill

L. Canning

Niveuui

Soleil d'Ootohrft

Moilestuiu

Western King

Princess Victoria

Ivory

Mrs. J. Lewis

Simplicity

Mars

1 IcKUM

Major Bonafhm

Cecil Wray

Miss Marv Godfrey

Boule d'Or (Calvat's)

Bonnie Dundee

Tuxedo

King of Plumes

Pride of Ryecroft

Mrs. H. Weeks

W. H. Lincoln

Duchess of York

Le Rhone

Khama

W. .1. Newitt

C. W. Richardson

Duchess of Wellington

Reine d'Angleterre

H. W. Rieman

Madame Rozain

Mrs. s. C. Probin

Thomas Wilkins

The new variety, R. Hooper Pearson, will, I
believe, prove to be a most useful one for bush-
culture. ..-1. Edwards,

GRAPE JUDGING. — If your correspondent
" Ayrshire Lad " will apply to the Royal Horticul-
tural Society, 117, Victoria Street, Westminster,
for a copy of the new code of judging rules — I
think the price is small — he will find in it thai
(irapes in relation to their respective varietal exhi-
bition values are dealt with. But the method adopted
is simpler than is the more elaborate arrangement
proposed by Mr. Ward recently. The Royal Hor-
ticultural Society's code simply places Muscat of
Alexandria as the very best Savoured of all exhi
bition Grapes, one point maximum above all th ■
rest, these being equal. Of course, in judging, the
judges can, even with fixed maximums, vary the
points both according to appearance and known
quality, so that no matter what maximums maybe,
they really indicate relative merit of variety when
first -rate, and they also indicate points beyond
which, in making awards, the judges cannot go.
What ' ' Ayrshire Lad " asks for in the way of
exposing publicly the judges' points in each case,
is done at Shrewsbury fully, aud it is there found
to have great educational value. It has been too
iong subject for complaint that at shows, the
grounds on which in important classes Awards are
based, have not been published, and therefore have
left both the competitors and public sometimes
bewildered. It would involve no more trouble in
pointing an important class for the judges to entei
their point Awards on a card than in their note-
books. Of course, all these great competitions so
much depend on the capacity of the men engaged
in making the Awards. Still further, it has often
occurred to me that at great shows, to secure
something like consistent judging, the judges
should be invited to confer with each other before
hand, and settle satisfactorily their respective
bases of judging similar exhibits. A. D.

ACALYPHA HISPIDA ISANDERIANA:.— The per-
sistency with which Acalypha hispida produces its.
long, cord-like infloresenees is cue of the prime fea^
tures of this extraordinary plant. I have just see i
the group of plants Mr. S. Hudson exhibited at a
meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society some
weeks ago ; a number of plants, and, excepting
that some of the handsome drooping spikes are
losing their freshness, none has been removed, and
as the plants grow taller they produce fresh flower-
spikes from every leaf-axd. It would thus appear
that so long as the plant is kept in a growing state
so long will the inflorescences be produced. Mr.
Hudson speaks very highly of it as a .house-plant.;

28

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 14, 1899.

he says that some of his plants were kept for nine
days in the town house of Mr. Leopold de Rothschild
in Hamilton Place, and when returned to him
they did not appear to have suffered in any
appreciable degree. Mr. Hudson's intention is
to convert some of his strongest plants into
standards. With this object in view, he will
shortly behead some of them, give them a
brief rest, and then start them into growth, so as
to form branching heads. The capacities of the
plant to stand this has, of course, to be proved,
but it would appear there is ground to hope it will
be abundantly realised. Mr. Hudson states, in
reference to its cultivation, that it requires the
warmth of a stove, seeing that it comes from the
coast of New Guinea. He finds that a minimum
night temperature of from 50° to 60°, and a day
temperature of from 65° to 70° in winter, with a
summer temperature of from 10° to 15° higher, suits
it well. The plant requires plenty of light to
develop its colour, with a light shading in summer.
The plants at Guunersbury House are in a low
Bpan-roofed house, and they are near the glass,
where they obtain an abundance of sunshine,
which appears to be necessary to its well-being.
The plants should not be syringed overhead, other-
wise the inflorescences become both disfigured
and damaged. It is good practice to sponge the
leaves occasionally to remove dust and insects, the
under being sponged as well as the upper side. A
suitable compost is one made up chiefly of turfy
loam, with leaf-soil and sand, adding some peat if
the loam is very heavy. The plant should not be
over-potted, and when established it should be
afforded plenty of water. As it appears to be a
plant that roots freely, a stimulus in the form of a
fertiliser- is found of advantage, and Clay's Manure
is in use at Gunnersbury House. Propagation is by
means of cuttings and of "eyes." So far it does
not appear to have produced seeds in this country,
nor have its capabilities to form seeds been deter-
mined. [The male plant has not yet been intro-
duced]. Mr. Hudson recommends the plant as a
suitable one for filling va6es in the decoration of
rooms, and then only such plants as are well
established. When used in rooms it should be
placed so that light papers may form a background,
and then by reason of its colour it shows up to
advantage. P. D.

CLEANING TOMATO - SEED.— The method of
cleaning Tomato-seed practised by " E. J." (see
last volume of Gardeners' Chronicle, p. 444) seems
rather a tedious process. A much quicker way,
and one that I have practised for a number of
years, and find to answer well, is to cut the fruit in
half horizontally, squeeze out the seed with as little
pulp as possible, or with some varieties pick it out
with a knife-point or a pointed stick. The whole
should then be put in a muslin bag, and the latter
twisted up so as to get the contents into as small a
space as possible. It must now be well rubbed
between the fingers and thumb under water until
the seed is well separated from the surrounding
pulp. Much of the latter will be squeezed through
the muslin during this process, and what remains
may be easily removed by washing in water. The
seed will then he quite clean. If " E. J.'' will give
this method a trial, I think he will find it a
quicker as well as a cleaner way than the one he
follows. I described this method of cleaning
Tomato-seed in the Gardeners' Chronicle of Oct. 17,
1887. This was my first venture of writing to this
paper. Two correspondents criticised my article.
"A. D." said it would, in the case of a quantity
of fruits, prove rather tedious and worrying. No
doubt "A. D." was quite right. I was writing
only for those who, like myself, might wish to save
a little seed for their own use. At the time I had
a great desire to know who this writer was. This
desire was gratified three or four years ago at the
Shrewsbury show, where I was staying at the same
hotel as this well-known writer, and was pleased to
find that he remembered replying to my note. The
other correspondent was Mr. S. Castle, then of
West Lynn, who disapproved of washing Tomato-
seed in water, and said : " I venture to say my
Tomato-seed, some of which is several years old, has
more germinating power than this season's washed
seed." This sentence is followed by a note of
interrogation. Further on he writes : " 1 should
be sorry to clean any Tomato-seed by the water
plan ; in fact, I can see no need of it, the seed
saved by me being white or light brown, and good."
In reply, I asked Mr. Castle if he would kindly say
what injurious effect the water had upon the seed,

and if the same rule held good with the washing of
Melon and Cucumber-seed ? As far as I remember,
he did not reply. I do not think washing has any
injurious effect upon seed. If any reader of the
Gardeners' Chronich thinks or knows differently,
perhaps he will kindly record his experience.
/. S. Upex, Wigganthorpe Garden, York:

SULPHURING OF VINES. — The following is the
method that I have seen used by others, and have
used in our vineries without injury being done to
the Vines. By its use red-spider and mildew are
checked. Having a small glass lamp, nearly fill it
with methylated spirit ; put a stand over the lamp,
and get a tin (a small cake-tin would do), takiug
care that it should be large enough, so that the
sulphur does not boil over, and put a 60-potful of
sulphur into it, beiug careful not to spill any, and
feeding it twice with a tablespoonful of sulphur at
an interval of twenty minutes. Put one lamp and
tin to every S feet run of glass. Have a wet sack
ready in case of accident, so as to throw over the
sulphur should it boil over or catch in any way.
The best time to do the sulphuring is late in the
evening if the suu is powerful, and air should be
put on early iu the morning before the sun has any
power. B. E.

MANURE AND PLANT ASH.— Your correspondent,
"Mr. G. W. Allen," in your issue of the 7th Lust.,
rather misapprehends the bearing of my lecture at
the Royal Horticultural Society. Briefly, the
argument was, that we know we must manure with
nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash, but that the
composition of the ash of the plant gives us no
guide as to the proportions to be employed. For
agricultural crops this fact has been established by
the experiments at Rotharasted and other stations ;
and Mr. Allen will find a few experiments illus-
trating the point in a note of mine that appeared in
the Cardeners' Chronicle of May 28, 1898. A. D.
Hall, South Eastern Agricultural College, Wye.

EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS IN THE OPEN AIR.—

It may interest your correspondent, A. R. Pearse,
to learn that a plant of Eucalyptus globulus,
planted in a gardeu in the south-west part of the
county of Cork, out of a small pot in 1880, was at
the end of 1893 killed to the ground by 18° of frost,
When killed it was (il feet high. This frost was
the hardest registered during the thirteen years the
tree had been planted. It was in the summer of
1893 a very fine sight, covered as it was with beau-
tiful yellow flowers. Does "A. R. P." know if
it commonly flowers in this country ? J. A., Pans-
hanger.

NOTES FOR NOVICES.— I.

Let not the student-gardener for wdiom this
note is to be written miagiue that we are going to
teach hira practical gardening. That can ouly be
learnt by experience. Experience is valuable to
one man because he knows how to appreciate it,
and to turn it to account ; it is unprofitable to
another, because he works with his hands only, and
cannot or does not let his hands be controlled by
his brains.

On turning to p. 7 of our last issue, some direc-
tions for digging may be read from the pen of a
practical gardener of loug experience. Messrs.
Caunell's catalogue, now before us, also points out
that there is digging and digging, and shows by
means of a woodcut which is the right, which the
wroug, way of carrying out this most important
operation. One half-hour spent in watching the
practice of an expert spadesman will, however,
teach more than all the columns of a gardening
paper. Besides, there is stiff land and light laud,
dry land and that which is water-logged, peat land
and that which contains more pebbles than soil.
Again, digging as a preparation for planting fruit-
trees, or for the benefit of kitchen-garden crops, is
one thing ; digging in a shrubbery or in the herbaceous
border is quite another matter. It may almost be
said that the more you do in the oue case the better,
the less you do in the other the less likely you are
to incur the wrath of the proprietor. No book and
no garden calendar can tell you exactly what you
ought to do uuder the special circumstances in
which you happen to be placed. Such publications
cau only deal with generalities, and you must use

y our brains so as to be able to adapt the general
directions to your special case.

Whilst there is all this diversity in practical
matters, according to varying conditions of the
soil and subsoil, and iu reference to the object in
view, the underlying principles are the same in all
cases. To get at and to understand these principles,
ask yourself why you are intending to undergo this
muscular exercise ? It is, no doubt, a splendid
thing for a young man, but he might, perhaps,
prefer football or cricket. These might be equally
advantageous to him as a man. But in these
forms of athleticism, the gratification is mainly
selfish. When a man digs he is, or should be,
animated by the fact that he is doing good to others
as well as to himself. First and foremost he is
doing good to the plants he is about to grow — that
is the primary reason why he doffs his coat, thrusts
in his spade, and neatly turns the sod. By helping
the plant he realises his ulterior aim of benefiting
his fellow man.

We dig, then, in order to promote the welfare of
the plant, and more particularly of its roots. Those
roots, generally speaking, have relatively thick
bodies and branches, and a crowd of fine thread-
like branchlets. Neither the body of the root, nor
its branches, uor even its fine threads, have any
direct influeuce on the feeding of the plant. The
feeding surface is confined to the vicinity of the
extreme tips of the finest threads, and to the very
minute root-hairs which clothe some roots uuder
propitious circumstances. One fibril or one root-
tip does very little towards supplying the wants of
the plant, but the work of the whole suffices with
other agencies to send up the water to the highest
leaves. Botanists teach us, moreover, that this
minute root-tip is one of the most wonderful things
in Nature. It not only absorbs water and air, but
it is sensitive to touch, has some of the properties
of a nerve, and during growth is endowed with a
faculty of twisting round and round, screwing
itself into favourable positions, of avoiding those
that are not so, and of circumventing obstacles.
Truly, we ought to feel respect for the root-tips ;
but how many give them a thought when digging?
If the soil is not broken up, how can these tiny
threads penetrate among and between the particles of
the soil? The root-thread, then, thus requires unre-
stricted room to move in and to spread itself where
food may be found, and digging affords this space.

Again, free access of water is essential ; that
caunot be ensured unless the soil is broken up.
Another esseutial is air ; the roots, like other parts
of the plant, breathe. The process is, iu essence, the
same as in human beings, and in all living creatures.
If you prevent the access of air (oxygen) to the
root, or if you do not provide, as you do by digging,
for the free entry of air, you suffocate the root, and
the plant dies. Stagnant water in the soil causes
ill-health or death, simply because it does not
allow of the free access of air to the root. The
water by itself is not injurious if it be kept in
motion, the air moves with it, and the soil is kept
fresh and sweet. In seasons such as we have had
lately, the plants on well-tilled land suffered much
less from the drought than those on hard-baked
consolidated soil. The water from the subsoil was
enabled to rise in the minute interstices of the
friable soil, and contribute to the wants of the
plant, its motions were checked and impeded in
the impervious soil.

Digging secures a warmer temperature in the
soil ; that is proved by experience. Then the
action of those extremely minute plant-cells called
microbes, or bacteria, in the soil, must not be for-
gotten. The ordinary gardener has little or no
chauce of actually seeing them ; he must rely on
his text-books for the requisite information. Some
are harmless, others harmful, and some of advan-
tage by converting the inert and otherwise useless
portions of the soil into soluble food in a state in
which it can be utilised or digested by the plant.
To understand these matters thoroughly, one must
be a physiologist and a chemist. Being only prac-
tical gardeners, wre must content ourselves for the

January 14, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

29

present with knowing that not the least important
reason for digging is to secure and promote the
beneficent action of exiguous bacteria ! More, and
much more, might be said here, but is it not written
in the textbooks? Suffice it for us now to setup
a finger-post. ,S'. Retsa/m.

EMIGRATION.

The information contained in the latest circular
issued from the Emigrants' Information Office, 31,
Broadway, Westminster, S.W., indicates briefly
those colonies or districts in which there are
openings for emigrants. For example, it is stated
that it is too early in the year to emigrate to
Canada. In New South Wales, matters relating to

the metal trades at Sydney, there is no demand for
any kind of mechanic ; in the furniture, clothing,
boot-making, printing, aud other trades, and in the
woollen-mills, there is no demand. The large
coal industry at Newcastle has been busy, and
miners have been working full time ; but as the
weighing question is still undecided, the industry
is in a very unsettled condition. In Victoria,
farmers would do well ; and a skilled mechanic, who
lands with sufficient money to provide for himself
and family during the first few weeks, would have
a reasonable prospect of finding remunerative
employment, especially in country districts. A
few more plumbers aud glaziers — if duly qualified —
would find employment on the draiuage works
which are now being carried out at Melbourne.

' ^

Fill. 9. — DRABA OI.Y.Ml'Il'A HETEROCOMA (NATURAL SIZE).

trade, labour, and industry are improving, aud
laud settlement is increasing. The dairy industry
is largely on the increase, and many new factories
are beiug erected. The number of unemployed
throughout the colony has become much less ;
scrub-cutting at the West Bogan is almost the only
Government work now being carried on for the
benefit of those out of employment, the average
wages there being 5s. iid. a day. But the effect of
the long drought, and of serious disputes between
capital and labour, have made employment in
many cases precarious. The buildiDg trade remains
depressed, and there is a large number of empty
houses in Sydney and the suburbs. At the large
Broken Hill silver miues there are sufficient miners,
and mechanics can always be obtained from
Adelaide when required. At the Cobar copper
miues there has been plenty of work for miners. In
many parts the saw-mills have been very busy. In

There is an Opening for a few experienced miners at
Carisbrook and Bendigo ; but for ordinary labourers
employment continues to be scarce.

Iu South Australia a Government labour Bureau
has just been established for the purpose of faci-
litating the obtaining of employment. The Bureau
is situated in Victoria Square, Adelaide, and
brauches may be established elsewhere ; a register
is to be kept of all persons applying for employ-
ment, but no oue can be registered uuless he has
resided for one year iu the colony ; a register of
employers applying for labour is also to be kept.
No labour is to be employed in the public service
except through the Bureau.

In Queensland, notwithstanding the late severe
drought, which caused great losses in the western
and central districts, settlement on grazing-farms
by practical men is steadily progressing, especially
in the west and north-west. There is a general

demand throughout the colony for ploughmen and
other farm-labourers, and for female domestic ser-
vants, bnt not for mechanics, except for a few
tailors at Brisbane. A sum of £22,500 is proposed
to be spent during the financial year in promoting
immigration ; of this amount, £15,000 will be used
for reducing the cost of immigrants' passages.
The Report of the Queensland Government Labour
Bureau for 1897, which has just been issued, does
not point to any very satisfactory results ; but, on
the whole, the tendency of the labour-market was
towards improvement. There was more demand at
Ipswich, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Toowoomba,
than at Brisbane, Buudaberg, or Townsville. In-
creased settlement and the improved position of
settlers have had this year a stimulating effect upon
the manufacturing industries of the colony, aud the
outlook is good. Gold-miners are doing well, and
considerable attentiou is again being directed to the
long-neglected copper-miuing industry.

In Western Australia there is a good demand for
farm-labourers in many parts of the south-west,
and for miners on some of the gold-fields, but not
at Coolgardie. A considerable number of public
works are beiug carried out iu all parts of the
colony, but as many of these are nearly completed,
the Government will during the next few mouths
gradually discharge some 200 of the employes in
the Public Works Department. The free-passages
hitherto given to female domestic servants going
to Western Australia are suspended for the present.
Iu Tasmania, the demand for most kinds of ordi-
nary labour (except compositors) is increasing there
as the miues develop, aud men able to take up and
work a few acres of laud will get a good price for
vegetables. In other parts of the colony there is
no general demand for more mechanics or farm-
labourers. In New Zealand, in the district of
Auckland, the building and saw-mill trades have
been very busy. In other parts of the colony also,
except at Wellington, men in the building trades
have been fully employed ; engineering trades have
also been busy, except at Aucklaud and Oamaru.
Ordinary labourers fiud plenty of work in
country districts at this season of the year ; but
they must avoid large towus like Aucklaud, Wel-
lington, Christchurch, Timaru, and Dunedin, where
many hands have been unable to fiud employment.
There is an excellent demand for female servants.

In Cape Colony and Natal there is very little
demand for mechanics or labourers at the present
time ; and emigrants are warned to avoid Beira in
Portuguese East Africa.

DRABA OLYMPIC A Var. HETE-
ROCOMA.

This is a pretty little Draba of tufted habit,
with linear, erect, glabrous leaves, and spikes of
golden-yellow flowers. It is a native of Anatolia,
and other parts of the Levant. Our illustration
(fig. 9), for which we are indebted to Mr. Siehe, of
Mersina, shows a plant as growing under natural
conditions. The plant is fully described in Boissier's
Flora Orientalis, vol. i. (1S67), p. 295.

MARKET GARDENING IN THE

CHANNEL ISLES.

(Continued from ml. xxiv., -p. 4i4.)

The Nurseries of Mr. A. J. Guilbert, atJRohais
Road, Guernsey, are of a much more varied character
than the market establishments already mentioned,
for not only are Tomatos and Grapes grown for sale
at home and for export, but there is a general col-
lection of plants indoors and outside, beside an
immense stock of early spring-flowering bulbs, such
as Iris, Freesias, and Narcissus. Acre after acre
is planted with these bulbs, and houses and pits are
filled with boxes in which the Freesias are planted.
And by no means is this a solitary instance, for
bulb-culture, if not taking the place of some of the
staple goods, is nevertheless becoming a large
adjunct to the regular work at mostof the nurseries.
At Rohais, almost the first plant to arrest attention
is a splendid specimen of Arundiuaria gracilis,

30

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 14, 1899.

12 feet in height and 15 feet through. Hedychium
Gardncrianuni is in robust health ; to see this
treated as a hardy plant was a novel experience.
Close by are the yellow Marguerites in regular
bushes. 8 feet high, and as much through. These
remain out all the year, and are constantly in
Sower. Gharajerops excelsa and C. Fortune! are
represented by plants 8 and 10 feet in height.

Continuing our walk through the grounds, we
notice a broad finely-kept walk through the nur-
sery. On one side ot this are herbaceous plants,
backed with choice shrubs, and on the other Bego-
nias, -Carnations, and bedding plants. Among
other trees outside were large Camellias, 30 feet
through, and almost as much in height. The old
Double White and Marchioness of Exeter are repre-
sented by such specimens. Close by is a tree of
Magnolia Fraseri, 30 feet high, and bushy withal.
The Cork-tree is represented by large specimens,
whilst Bamboos, Dracaenas, and Phormium seem to
vie with one another to cover the space allotted
them in the shortest space of time. We notice
Benthamia fragifera in the best of conditions, choice
greenhouse and Himalayan Rhododendrons, and so
on until we approach a dell at the lower part of the
grounds, through which a stream of water is con-
stantly running. We have had the pleasure of
inspecting some large winter gardens, but this
nook, so natural and free, without any protection
whatever, charmed us immediately. Along the
stream were masses of Gunnera scabra, with
leaves 4 feet across, bearing large cone-like clusters
of flowers ; Phormium tenax aDd P. t. variegata ;
Bamboos in some twenty species and varieties ;
Palms, Camellias, Dracaena indivisa ; Acanthus
mollis, with Osmunda regalis, Woodwardia radi-
i-ans, Cyrtomium falcatum, aud Cyperus alterni-
folius. Pittosporum Ralphi, Datura sauguiuea and
D. aurea, now full of flowers. Bouvardia odora-
tissima, some of which are 8 and 10 feet high.
Aralia Sieboldi, Ligustruni chineuse, with beds of
various sorts of Montbretias, full of flowers.
Passing by a Camellia-hedge we come to a large
field, where all the best Chrysanthemums are grown
by thousands.

Of Anemone fulgens, we noticed large beds just
beginning to appear above the ground; the St.
Brigid and other forms are also largely grown.
English, Spanish, and choice German Iris, in large
quantities ; of the two former types, the number of
bulbs run into six figures in a season. The white
Agapanthus is also here in large masses. Roses
and Carnations are represented by quantities of
the best sorts.

Indoor Plants, &n.
The houses are numerous, aud the inmates
iuchided double-flowered Begonias, large and.
bright ; Asparagus decumbens, grown in quantity ;
Canuas of unusual size and brightness. The
choice varieties of C'anna grow on these islands
to a great size ; the flowers, which are freely
produced, are very large, and of intense and
vivid colours. Here also are Ferus of sorts, and
Palms for decoration ; while overhead is a wonderful
plant of Steplianotis floribunda, cleau aud vigorous,
from which uo fewer than 6000 trusses of bloom
had been cut this year. A vinery close by, 70 feet
by .'ili feet, contained a line crop of Black Alicante
Grapes, aud along the centre patli a good portion of
space was devoted to planted -out Freesias ; the
[nue white F. refracta alba only is grown, aud the
stock is always kept pure. In another house,
Cypripedium insigne is represented by a large
number of plants ; these are potted in loam, leaf-soil,
and sand — in fact, in soil just suited to a Fuchsia.
Asparagus plrrmosus and A. p. nanus are grown in
large quantity, mostly in S-inch pots — splendid
plants they are. These arc raised from seed,
and quickly pricked out and grown on. Large
specimens are kept, which flower and seed freely,
so there is no fear of the stock diminishing ;
a houseful of pot-Vines, chiefly Muscats, were ready
for removal outside. A house of Melous, 40 feet
long aud 8 feet wide, with a narrow border each side,
had 200 splendid fruits of tha old Guernsey A 1 - -a

form Mr. Guilbert finds most useful and profitable.
A Tomato-house, 200 feet by 30, span-roof, with
twelve plants in rows from path to wall, and spaces
3 feet wide, was filled with a grand lot of plants
and fruit, the variety being The Cropper. It is a
splendid cropper, and has large, round, regular
fruit, produced in good clusters. Heaps of Daffo-
dils were piled up on the borders inside, to be
sorted aud then planted. There is a vinery 100 ft.
long, in which the Vines were plauted six years
ago, and have been grown on the extension system.
A long rod has been carried along the front wall,
and from this numerous canes have been carried
up to the top. Peaches are grown in a span-roof
house, and the trees are clean, stout, and vigorous.
My attention was first drawn to 15, Pollett
Street, the shop in the town where Mr. Guilbert
disposes of so much of his goods, by seeing in the
window a dish of Lady Palmerston Peaches, several
of which were weighed in my presence, and reached
16 oz. Some fruits of this variety had been exhi-
bited, weighed uo less than 21 oz. Passiug through
the nursery I could not help remarking on the
number of squares of glass covered with Tomato
seed. On enquiry I was informed that, if a given
quantity was saved in good condition, a promise
had been made that the men should have another

day's outing.

(To hf continued.)

risen rapidly in favour in England during the last few
years, and is certainly a valuable crop.

Sainfoin (Giant aud common) : Perhaps the
largest crops on record, both in England and
France, of excellent quality.

Italian Rye-grass : The French crop is not large,
but owing to the large Irish one, prices are still
kept down. Euglish crop below an average.

Perennial Rye-grasses : Again very large crops,
with almost record minimum prices. The quality
of the samples should be a matter of the greatest
importance — more land is fouled by impure Peren-
nial-grasses than by any other means we know of.

Natural grasses : Cocksfoot is in large supply
from New Zealand. America has sent the cleanest
samples, lacking in brightness, but of the highest
germination. Timothy in full supply, and low
in price. Crested Dogstail much cheaper than
for some years. Meadow Fescue a small crop, but
last year's was so large that much of it is still held
over", and growths of this are very poor. Meadow
Foxtail plentiful. The Poas are scarce, but Sheep's
and Hard Fescue in good supply.

White Mustard : Euglish crop large, of almost
invariably fine quality ; medium and low samples
are scarce. Rape : A very small crop in England.
Foreign supplies seem good.

Spring Tares : The samples we have seen show
excellent quality ; the extent of the crop we are not
yet able to determine, but we expect it is large.
Winter Tares : Still in large supply, both new and
yearlings, at almost lowest recorded prices.

CLOVER AND GRASS SEEDS.

We learn from Messrs. Hurst & Son's recently-
issued circular that of English Red Clover and
Cow-grass a very large acreage was left for seed in
almost all the producing counties, but the exceed-
ingly warm and bright weather of the late summer
shrivelled a considerable proportion of the stems
on the light and warm lands, preventing the
development of the seed-heads, and therefore those
crops saved early in September will, we think,
prove light in yield. The seed that was saved
later on the colder and heavier lands will show the
best quality and largest yields. Taking the crop
as a whole, we should say it will be barely up to an
average one. Samples will vary very much, the
great bulk of the seed will be small, bright-coloured,
and weedy. Fine large-grained purple seed with
the true English character will be scarce. There
is still a large quantity of yearling seed held over,
which will have to come on to the markets. We
may add that up to the present date fewer parcels
of new seed have been brought to market than we
ever remember. Single cut Cow-grass is in very
short supply ; as this is always saved early, our
remarks above apply in full force here.

Foreign Red Clover: America, the country we
always look to for the largest output of seed, lias
considerably below an average, but the enormous
quantity of 1S07 crop still held over more than
counterbalances any deficiency. France has some
fine seed, but as her crop is not up to an average,
she will not be able to send us the large quantities
she did last year. From some parts of Germany
we have rather free offerings of large-grained, fine-
coloured and clean seeds, but prices asked at
present are rather high. The Russian crop is
reported small, and it is thought she will have- to
import.

White Clover : A large English crop, but of
bad colour, and unusually weedy. America has
a large crop of even-looking seed, but it does not
rind favour in this country, the plant is so small
and weak that we doubt whether it is an econo-
mical article, even if the seed should be at a low
price. German offers are pretty free, of medium
and loW qualities : line clean handsome seed seems
scarce.

Alsike : Is in fair supply. Germany has appar-
ently a larger crop than for several years, but
the samples we have seen lack the cleanliness of
the Canadian and American samples.

Trefoil : Had it not been for the great quantity
of yearling and 2-yr.-old seed on the market, this
article would have advanced to a high figure, the
crops of new, both in this country and on the con-
tinent, are much below an average, and quality not
good.

Lucerne : French crop reported large, but their
home demand is so extensive that prices have
already advanced. American supplies are good, with
prices a triffe higher than last year. This article has

Colonial Notes.

THE WEST INDIES.
Dr. Morris, who acted for several years as
Assistant-Director at Kew, during which period
he rendered valuable services to the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, and made many friends among
horticulturists, has taken up his work as Imperial
Commissioner of Agriculture 'for the West Indies.
An address which he delivered before the Agricul-
tural Society at Trinidad defines the scope of his
future work as comprising the furtherance of every
possible agency to benefit the general welfare of
the people. The Sugar-cane in its various aspects
will receive much attention, and amongst other
things attempts will be made to obtain a variety
with a higher- percentage of sugar, and drawings
are to be made of all the varieties cultivated in
various parts of the world, so that uniformity arrd
fixity of nomenclature may be secured. Trinidad
has a very efficient botanical department, and arr
energetic and experienced superintendent irr the
person of our valued correspondent, Mr-. Hart. A
similar establishment exists in Jamaica under the
superintendence of Mr. W. Fawcett, so that these
two islands do not stand in need of official assist-
ance in the degree thatthe less prosperous islandsdo.
Agricultural and industrial schools are to be estab-
lished, horticultural exhibitions started, agricul-
tural instructors appointed, and experiments
carried out. Mr. Hart strongly recommends the
growth irr Trinidad of Castilloa elastica, a rubber-
yielding tree which promises well in a commercial
serrse, both in British Honduras arrd irr Trinidad.

Vegetables.

CARTER'S FORCING PEA.
Those who are ou the look-out for a good early
Pea for growing in frames or pots, will find no
better than Carter's Forcing. It is a variety with
a good dwarf habit, rarely, if ever, exceeding a
foot in height ; the haulm strong, and the plant a
great cropper for' its height. The pods contain on
an average six peas, the flavour of which, when
cooked, is that of a first-rate Marrowfat. H. W.

Beetroot.
It was stated by " D." in the Oardeneri'
Chronicle for October 15 that finer roots would be
obtained if the seed of spindle-shaped Beet was
sown at the end of the month of May, instead of
earlier in that month. That may be so in some

JanWakv 14, 1899.]

THE GA R DENER S ' CHR OKI CL E.

31

soils, and if the season is favourable for germination
and growth ; but I have more than once had
failures from sowing late, and I now sow seeds for
the main crop of Beetroots in the beginning of May.
The roots from late sowings, should the summer
weather prove very dry, rarely come of a service-
able size on light or dry soils. On chalky soil last
season I sowed three varieties, namely, Cheltenham
Green-top, Dell's Crimson, and Veitch's Improved
Black. Sparrows were troublesome during the hot
weather, devouring the young Beet-plauts, with
the exception of the Green-top variety, growing
alongside the dark-leaved varieties, compelling me
to use Pea-guards as a protection against them.
H. Marhham, Wrotham Park Gardens.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

January 10. — A meeting of the committees of this Society
was held on Tuesday last in the Drill Hall, .lames Street,
Westminster. There are to be two meetings held during the
present month, which is an innovation in respect to January
that rs possibly capable of satisfactory explanation. Hut to
say the least of Tuesday's meeting, it certainly afforded no
evidence that a greater number of opportunities is needed
during the winter months for the presentation of novelties
tor Certificates in plants or fruits.

No award save of Medals was made by either the Floral or
Fruit and Vegetable Committees. The Orchid Committee
granted distinctions to a very few novelties. Nor was the
general display of exhibits extensive. But at 8 o'clock in the
afternoon took place the most encouraging event of tin- daj .
A meeting was held for the election of new Fellows, and tic-
list submitted was so large as to prove thai tin- vigorous
growth the Society has continued to make in poinl of
numerical strength is unabated.

Floral Committee.
Present : W. Marshall, Esq., chairman ; and Messrs. John
Fraser, Owen Thomas, Chas. T. Druery, A. B. May, R. Dean,

Win, Howe, .las, Hudson, -I. V. McLeod, C. .1. Salter, -I.

Fraser, Chas. Jeffries, Ed, Mawley, George Gordon, Chas. E.
shea, Herbert J. Cutbush, Edwin Beckett, n. ■' Jones, E, I
Cook,.], w. Barr, Harry Turner, and Chas. Blick.

Soi 1 1 1- very handsome spraj s'of Asparagus deflexus, 5 to 6 ft.
long, were shown by R. B. Li Bi n . I ■ ■■ jq . I he Cottage, Wood
Hall. The sprays were studded with theverj brighl scarlet*
coloured berries, and were much admired.

Mr. F. Miller, Fulham Road, South Kensington, S.W.,
exhibited some early spring flowers, including Narcissus, Lily
of the Valley, Tulips, Roman Hyacinths, Arum Lilies, &c.
These were very tastefully set up in various devices, and
relieved with Myrsiphyllum asparagoides and other greenei > ;
also dried Grasses, being several species of Cape Restiaeca-
(Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. .James Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery,
Chelsea, showed a strong- growing Davallia, named 1>. inter-
media, and supposed to be a hybrid between 1>. Mooieana and
D. decora. The hybrid has larger and broader pinna? than
either D. intermedia or p. decora, and produces huge spreading
fronds. Messrs. Witch & Sons had also several varieties Of
flowering and berried shrubs, including Skimmia japdnica, S.
Fortunei in berry; Skimmia fragrans rosea in bud ; and Skim-
mia japonica oblata, in bud and in berry. This last one has
larger leaves and berries than the other species. The firm
showed a number of trusses of warm-house Rhododendrons.
A few specimens in flower of Haniamelis arborea (Witch-
hazel) were also shown. Taxus baccata en-eta semper aurea,
sufficiently describes a plant "f an ornamental Yew, also from
Messrs. Veitch.

■ A variety of Saintpaulia ionantha with white or flesh-
eoloured flowers was shown by Mr. P. Blair, gr. to the Duke
Of Sutherland, Trentham Hall, Staffordshire; the flowers had
just a suspicion of purple in them, but are very distinct from
the type, and will probably meet with appreciation.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, Herts, again dis-
played their valuable new plants of last season, such as
Acalypha hispida (Sanderiana), A. Godsefflana, Kentia San-
deriana, Dracaena Sanderiana, and Licuala Jeanenceyi. The
very showy A. hispida has been exhibited throughout the
year in perfect flower. It is evidently a plant that may be
obtained in bloom at any season.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, 12 and 13, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, exhibited a batch of plants of varieties of
Primula sinensis. The plants were well grown, and exhibited
several distinct colours, the "blue" one being especially
worthy of remark.

A white decorative Chrysanthemum named Elaine Squelch
was shown byE. Spever, Escp, Boxhurst, Dorking (gr., Mr.
H. Squelch).

The orange-coloured Gerbera Jainesoni was shown by
Messrs. H. Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield. The plant
had one flower, and was in a pot. This very pretty Compo-
site was figured m the Gardeners' Chronicle, June 22, 1889,
p. 773.

Mr. K. B. Leech, gr., Woodhall, Dulwicb, showed a vase
filled with well berried sprays of Asparagus deflexus.

Sprays of flowers of Cyrtanthus intermedius were shown by
Mr. F. \V. Moore, from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin.
The flowers of long and very slender tubes of rose-colour, the
interior of the corolla being much paler. The orange-coloured
ealices present a pretty eonlrust.

Orchid Committee.

Present : Harry Veitch, Esq., m the chair ; and Messrs. .las.
O'Brien (Hon. See.), S Courtauld, T. W. Bond, R. Brooman-
White, H. Little, F. Sander, J. Gabriel, H. Ballantine. H. M.
Pollett, H. T. Pitt, W. Cobb, E. Hill, F. J. Thorne. \Y. H.
young, H. .1. Chapman, and .J. Don-las.

The first meeting of the year brought forth an interesting
display, though the exhibits were not numerous.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Limited, staged a group con-
taining many rare hybrids. Of the plants making their
appearance lor the first time, very remarkable were Angnecum
X Veitchi (sesquipedale 9 , eburneuiu (supcrbum) «J ), a noble
hybrid, in habit intermediate between the parents, i.e., having
the leaves more fleshy and more ascending than in A. seso,ui-
pedale, and with a decided tendency to produce an elongated
scape. The plant bore three fine flowers and one bud, the
tlowersequalinsizetothoseof A. sesquipedale, but with shorter
spur. The sepalsand spur weregreenish-white, the bread petals
and lip clear ivory-white. A First-classs Certificate was
awarded for the plant, and a Silver Flora Medal to Mr. .1.
Seden, the chief of Messrs. Veitch's hybrid Orchid depart-
ment. Another singular and pretty hybrid of more modest
pretensions was Epi-Cattleya x Mrs. James O'Brien (E.
o'Bricnianumo* , C. Bowringiana?). The plant had stout
stems, dad with alternate fleshy green leaves, the apex bear-
ing the scape 9 inches in height, and clad with leafy, sheathing
bracts at the lower half. The flowers, which were about

•2 inches across, had ovate sepals and petals, and singular

three-lobed lip, adnate to the column for the greatei pari of
the length ; of a bright rose-purple colour, of that crystalline
appearance seen in Barkeria Lindleyaria (Award of Merit).

Othei pretty hybrids were Cattfeya x Breauteana var.
Hebe (Loddigesii 2. superbatf), a pretty flower, somewhat

resembling a large Lu-lia Pelliui; La-Iio. Cattleya x Do-

liiiiii.'ina var, Langleyensis, a nobleahd finely-coloured flower ;
varieties of L.-C. x Pallas, Cattleya x leucoglossa (Fausta
x Loddigesii), Epidendrum x Wallisii-ciliare, Epipbronitis x
Veitchi, Cypripedium x Euryades, both spotted and purple-
tinted varieties, C. x Kiobe, C. Arthurianum pulchellum,
C. X Zeno, C. x Leeanum superbum and giganteum, Dendro-
hium atroviolaceuin, three tine plants of Cymbidiuni Tracy-
aniiin, and other species. A Silver Flora Medal was awarded
for the group.

sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Bnrford, Dorking (gr., Mr.
W. II. White), showed Soph rouitis Rossiteriana, a remarkable
variety of the same form as the ordinary S. grandiflora, but
with a clear yellow flower (Award of Merit).

Noiim an C. Cook son, Ksip. < lakwpod, Wylain, Northumber-
land (gr., Mr. Wm. Murray), showed a fine hybrid Cypripe-
dium, raised out of <_\ bellatulum, and whieh the committee
decided should be named C. ■ ^cholieldianum superbuin, it
being near to C. x Seholieldinm, recorded as C. bellatuluin x

C. hirsutissimum, but which record the committee doubted.
The present flower was largr in size, of a clear cream-white
ground, evenly spotted with dark purple (Award of Merit). Mr.
i OOKSON also showed his Calanthe x Sybil, a tine pure white
hybrid, with the less white C. x Cooksoni for comparison ;
and the carmine-tinted C. X Phtebe.

Sir Frederick Wioan, Clare I. awn, East Sheen (gr., Mr.
W. H. Young), showed a plant of Phahsnopsis grandiflora
(amabilis) which had been in the Clare Lawn collection since
LS84 ; and flowers of Phahenopsis Aphrodite, Sehilleriana,
casta, Stuartiana, grandiflora aurea, and lencorrhoda, each of
which had been at Clare Lawn for a number of years, the last,
named having been purchased from the Downside collection,

De B. Crawshav, Esq., Rosefield, Sevtnoaks (gr., Mr.
S. Cooke), showed Ladia anceps Rosefieldiensis, a very dark
and brightly - coloured variety, with richly-coloured lip.
characterised by the clear white of the tube, bearing broad
dark purple lines, and by the broad purplish-crimson bolder
to the side-lobes (Award of Merit). Mr. Crawshav also showed
L. anceps Titania, a large flower with light rose-pink sepals
and petals.

Walter Cobb, Esq., Dulcote, Tnnhridge Wells (gr., Mr. J.
Howes, showed Cypripedium bellatulum Dulcote var., with
yellowish-white ground colour, the spotting being more dis-
tinct, and more widely separated than in other forms, showing
more of the ground colour (Award of Merit); the fine C x
.1. Howes (villosum aureum Sallieri Hyeanum), which had
previously received an Award of Merit ; and the distinct C.
insigne, Dulcote variety.

R. I. Measures, Esq., Cambridge Lodge, Caiuberwell (gr.
Mr. H. J. Chapman), showed Cypripedium x Buchanianum
mygnificum (Spicerianum x Druryi), a handsome flower, and
decided improvement on the original. The flower had the,
main features of C. Spicerianum magnificum, but tie sub-
stance was firmer, the surface more glossy and yellower,
telling plainly of C. Druryi ; also C. insigne Arthurianum, a
large lightly-spotted form.

Henry Tate, Esq., Allerton Beeches, Liverpool showed
three very dissimilar Cypripediums, all supposed to be
between C. Boxalli atratum and C. nitens superbum, ami
named (1) Parksianum, Tates var., the upper sepal flaked With
purple ; (2) Sirdar, with white upper sepal spotted with
purple; (8) Cromer, with pale green upper sepal, with white
margin and purple spots.

Messrs, B. s. Wnu\\i> \ Son, Upper Holloway, were

rewarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a good group of Cypri-
pediums, &c, and comprising C. Spicerianum, C. x Sallieri,
c. ■ S. aureum, C. x Williamsii, C. X Barteli, C. X Harrisia-
num superbum, 0. •; Mtasuresianum, C. X Leeanum super-
bum, C. .1. Fitchiauum, C. x discolor, C. x nitens, C. X
Piteherianuin, Williams' var., C. insigne Wallacei, Maulei,
punctatum violaceum, aibo-marginatum, and grandiflorum ;
and good examples of La lio-Cnttlcya x Sallieri, Oucidiuin
tigrinuin, Lycaste fulvescens, &c.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Allans, had arranged with
their remarkable Acalypha hispida, some well-flowered
specimens of Phahenopsis Stuartiana, the clear white
Miltonia vexillaria virginalis, a very handsome form of
Cattleya Trianad, C. Percivaliana, Oncidiuin varicosum
Rogersii, &c. Mr. Thos. RocnFORD,Turnford Hall Nurseries,
BrOxbourne, showed Odontoglossum x Ruckerianum, Roch-
lord s variety, a very handsome form, with well-made flowers
of a cream-white, densely spotted with reddish-brown in the
way of O. R. egregium (Award of Merit). F. M. BURTON, Esq.,
Highfleld, Gainsborough, showed a spike of the original
La iia anceps Amesiana, or a re-introduction of it.

Sir Wm. Marriott, Down House, Blandford (gr., Mr. T.
Denny), showed La-lia x Latonia splendens. W. P. Bcrken-
suaw, Esq., The West Hill, Hessle, Hull, sent Cymbidium
Tracyanum splendens, with large flowers and dark purplish-
brown markings.

Messrs. Hugh Low &, Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, showed
as 1'liaius Tautziana a plant which seemed to be Phaio-
Calanthe X Sedeni rosea, with cream-white fldwers marked
with dark rose colour.

Fruit Committee.

Present ; Philip Crowley, Esq., chairman, and Messrs. Geo.
Bunyard, Jos. Cheal, Jas. H. Veitch, W. Poupart, M. Gleeson,
A. H. Pearson, Alex. Dean, A. F. Barron, J. W. Bates, W.
Fan, W. .), Empson, Ceo. Wythes, H. Balderson, F. g. Lane,
Geo. Reynolds, Ceo. Norman, and .1. Willard.

A nice collection of Apples was staged by Mr. W. J. Empson,
gr. to Mrs. Wjncfiei.d, Ampthill House, Ampthill. It con-
sisted of about forty dishes or varieties, and some of the best
were Gascoigne's Scarlet, "Worcester Pearmain, American
Mother, King of the Pippins, Ribston Pippin, Mere de
Menage, Bauinann's Red Reinette, Prince Bismarck, and Lord
Derby (Silver Knightiau Medal).

Mr. Hisi.op, gr., Bletchley Park, Bletchley, showed a dish
of the Russet Apple Scotsman.

A basketful of very nice fresh-looking Mushrooms was
shown by -Mr. .1. W. Miller, gr. to Lord Folkv, Ruxley Lodge.
Esher, Surrey (Vote of Thanks).

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT GAR-
DENERS' MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

•Iaxcarv 4.— A fortnightly meeting was held on the above
date, Mr W. Poii: presiding.

Mr. J. W..GROVES, F.L.S, K.U. M.S., gave the third of the
Series of his botanical lectures, the subject being, "Roots,
Leaf-etalks, and Leaves.' 'Ihe development of the root from
the seed was firsi described, and special attention was called
to the root cap, its structure, and uses. A section of a young
root was next described, and the manner in which the struc
inn-sin the stem become continuous with the structmrs of
the root was clearly explained. The various forms of roots,
and their uses, were briefly described, the acid exudation
from the root-hairs, and its uses, being minutely explained. A
typical leat was taken, and its blade, leaf-stalk, and stipules
pointed out. An imaginary microscopic examination of its struc-
ture was mad.', sketches drawn on the blackboard, and the
epidermal-cells, Btomata, and guard-cells, chlorophyll, and air-
s parrs all minutely described. The formation of the hard glossi
surface on such leaves as the Holly and Laurel, and on straw.
Bamboos, At,, and its uses, were explained, as were also the
uater-pores in such plants as the Fuchsia, Nasturtium, and
the Nectaries ; crystals and hairs in some other plants. The
various forms of leaves were passed over, but the four prin-
cipal uses dwelt upon, viz., absorption, assimilation, respira-
tion, and transpiration. The modification of leaves into
prickles, thorns, and tendrils, was also pointed out. The
Lecturer said he could hot conclude without referring briefly
to an exceptional class of plants, of which the Sundew ami
Pitcher-plants were well-known examples. A series of
lantern-slides were then exhibited, by way of recapitulating
what had been explained.

A hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Groves for his
useful and instructive lecture, which he duly acknowledged.
A number of microscopic slides of hairs, sections of roots,
leaves, &£., were also on view. Mr. W. Pope staged a large
group of Euphorbia jacquiniaeflora. H. Coleby, Jl<-<>. Sec

ISLE OF WIGHT.

The annual meeting of the Isle of Wight Chrysanthemum
Society was held at Newport on Saturday last. Dr. J,
Groves, B.A., J. P., presided over a small attendance. On
the proposition of the chairman, the report and balance-sheet
were adopted.

Owing to the inclemency of the weather at last year's show,
there is a loss of £17 on the year's workings, which leaves a
balance in hand of about £4. On the election of officers and
committee, Sir Chas. Seeley, Bart, J.P., was unanimously
re-elected President; Dr. J. Groves, B.A., J.P., chairman of
the committee ; and Mr. C. H. Cove, Hon. Sec.

Several important alterations were made in next year's
schedule, which it is hoped will be to the benefit ot the
Society financially, and of greater interest to the lovers of the
popular autumn flewar.

32

THE GARDENERS' CHR 0 NI CL E.

[January 14, 1899.

BESTJSCITATING A FLOWER SHOW.

Jani-ary ".—A general meeting of the horticulturists of the
district and others interested in the proposal to resuscitate
the Society, and hold an annual flower-show in Dumfries, was
held on the above date, Councillor Newbiogino presiding.

It was agreed to re-form the Society, and revert to the old
name, "The Dumfriesshire and Galloway Horticultural So-
ciety," this having been actually the oldest Society that had
held a public flower-show in Great Britain. The Society was
instituted in 1812, and the first show was held in that year.
Office-bearers were elected as follows :— Hon. President, his
Grace the Duke of Buccleuch ; President, Mr. Maxwell, of
Munches ; Vice-Presidents, Provost Glover, Dumfries ; Sir
Robert Jardine, Bart., of Castlemilk ; Mr. W. H. Scott, of
Nunfleld ; Mr. Galbraith, Terregles ; Mr. W. J. Maxwell, of
Terraughtie ; Mr. Dubs, Cargen ; Sir Herbert Maxwell, M.P.,
of Monreith ; and Sir Mark J. McTaggart Stewart, M.P:, of
Southwick. Mr. Mann (late Secretary of the Newton-Stewart
Society), "was elected Hon. Treasurer; and Mr. G. Kerr, Dum-
fries, the Secretary ; and a representative committee was also
formed. It was agreed to hold an indoor show on Wednesday,
September ti. ' ^

THE SCOTTISH HORTICULTURAL
ASSOCIATION.

January 10.— The annual general meeting of this popular
society was held on the above date, at 5, St. Andrew Square ;
Mr. M. Todd, the President, in the chair.

There was a very large attendance of members, who took a
lively interest in the proceedings. Mr. R. Laird, the secre-
tary, read the report, and the society proceeded to elect their
office-bearers and transact other business. The numbers still
continued to increase, four life members and 133 ordinary
members being added to the roll during the year. The
report also referred to the striking success of the Chrys-
anthemum show'; and the council of the association
took the opportunity of thanking the Lord Provost,
Magistrates, and Town Council for their support.
The funds on December 81, 1S9", were £67fi, and the revenue
for the year, including the balance from the year from the
Chrysanthemum show of £102, was £200, so that the total
charge was £879. The funds on December 31, 1S98, were
£79S. Both reports were adopted. An interesting presen-
tation was made to Mr. and Mis. Mackenzie during the even-
ing of a gold watch and a gold bracelet, in appreciation of Mr.
Mackenzie's services as treasurer for fifteen years. The follow-
ing office-bearers were then elected, and the usual votes of thanks
concluded the proceedings : — President, Mr. C. W. Corvam,
Valleyfield, Penicuik ; Vice-President, Mr. M. Todd, who has
served the Society so well as Vice-Pn-siilent for tin.- last two
years ; and Alexander Mackenzie, the late Treasurer ; Mr.
Robert Laird, Secretary ; and Mr. Wm. McKhmon, Treasure
D. T. F.

it splits — not very badly though. Three blooms
standing in a tall vase in the house, covered a space
almost as large as one hand outstretched. One
other plant of this variety was true to colour and
shape, but much smaller. " Nelly," a rose-coloured
Pink, produced quite twenty sorts. Among seventy
or eighty plants, only five or six doubles were true
to description ; it is very finely toothed. Fred. C.
Smith, Anijaston, South Australia.

SEEDLING CAKNATIONS.

During October and November of last year I
have had 600 or 700 Pinks from seed, bloomiug. A
few of Messrs. Ladhams', 200 or .100 ordinary mixed
Dianthus plumarius, 300 or 400 of Alegatiere's
strain, 70 or 80 " Nelly," about 100 Mrs. Sinkins.
and 28 Her Majesty. I lined 200 or 300 yards of
my borders with these, and for weeks before the
Carnations, excluding Margarets, were in bloom ;
these made a lovely show. I had no idea that the
old Clove Pink could be so beautiful ; they have
beeu undeservedly neglected out here, and consider-
ing their many good qualities, this is to be wondered
at. They practically extend the Carnatiou season
by several weeks ; the stems are not angled like
those of so many Carnations, and few or no buds
are destroyed in cutting, and yet straight clean
stems, 12 inches long, can be had in most of them.
Of course, they lack the colours of the Carnation,
and the scent is not so pronounced ; still, they have
a special season to fill, and their exceedingly prolific
flowering make them of immense value where great
quantities of flowers are wanted. In addition, for
the edges of borders they are specially suited, the
glaucous-coloured foliage giving a distinct effect,
and setting off the brighter hues of the various
shrubs and perennials. Of the ordiuary D. plumarius
I did not get two per cent, double, a few nice half-
doubles, and a very fair lot of singles. In M. Alega-
tiere's strain, I had 10 per cent, choice doubles, about
same half-doubles, and some fine singles. In Mrs.
Sinkins all were double, and all split badly. This
variety does not come pure in colour, for all seemed
to have a yellowish-green tiut in the centre of the
flowers. Of the twenty-eight Her Majesty seed-
lings, only one proved to be true to description,
being an immense flower, of purest white, fine
broadly • toothed petals, but like Mrs. Sinkins

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Harrison & Sons, 33, Market Place, Leicester— 1, Wholesale
list of Seeds ; Retail Seed List.

Kelway & Son, Langport, Somerset— Seeds, &c.

Howden <fe Co., Old Post Office Buildings-Seeds, &c.

Barr & Sons, 12 and 13, King Street, Covent Garden, London
—Seeds, &c.

W. Fromow &: Son, Sutton Court Nurseries, London, W.—
Seeds.

W. Horne, Perry Hill, Cliffe, near Rochester, Kent— Fruit-
trees, Vegetable Seeds, &c.

Herd Bros.. Penrith— Seeds, &c.

Hoor; &, Robertson, 22, Mary Street, Dublin— Seeds, &c.

.1. H. Pearson A; Sons, Chilwell Nurseries, Notts— Serds, &c.

O.wsfm

Blenheim Orange : W. iV. G. First discovered
at Woodstock, and received its name from
"Blenheim.'' It is also called Kempster's
Pippin. See Hogg's Fruit Manual, p. 25, where
you will find the history as given in these pages.

Books : D. H. S. My Gardener, by H. W.

Ward, published by Eyre & Spottiswoode. Kast
Harding Street, E.G.; we do not know the
price. The Garden Calender, by T. W. Sanders,
published by Hamilton, Adams & Co., Pater-
noster Kow, EC., price 2s 6rf. — C. B. G. Yes.
the book is very suitable. A few shillings. Bell
& Sons.— P. J. W. Observations on the Culti-
vation of Hoses in Pots, by W. Paul, seventh
edition. Published by Simpkiu, Marshall, Hamil-
ton, Kent & Co., 23, Paternoster Kow. — G. A. H.
You do not tell us what description of botany
you desire to take up. If you will do this, we
will indicate suitable books.

Bulbophyllum Dearei, &c. : Beppo. The plants
should be grown in Orchid -baskets or pans, and
they should succeed well suspended, as you say
yours are, in a stove-house. They should be freely
watered with rain-water at all seasons, as it does
not require drying-off. Utricularia montana
should be planted in Orchid-baskets, and sus-
pended in a warm-house. It requires to be
liberally watered, as it is a semi-aquatic plant.

('licit crass ami Dandelion Boots: /'. B.
You would be wise to char the roots, or mix
them with a large quantity of fresh stable-dung,
and throw into a heap to ferment, turning it once
or twice whilst the heat is great.

"Crag": F. Myers. It would doubtless be useful
if burned or chaired so as to render it of the
nature of quicklime. In the state as sent, it is
poor stuff in which to grow any kind of garden-
plant.

Cypripedium Leaves : H. H., Peebles. The leaves
sent seem to indicate that the plant has been
grown in a too warm or badly-regulated tempe-
rature. Being kept in a position where they are
in direct contact with the heat coming from the
hot-water pipes will often cause a similar appear-
, ance.

Dendrobium spectabile : W.P. W. It may flower
from the old pseudo-bulbs. If from the new
ones, it will be after they are made up.

Double-spathed RlCHARDIA : ./. Young. This is
not at all an uncommon incident amongst the
Richardias. It is usually due to high cultivation,
with rich manures or compost.

Duration of Germinative Power in Seeds:
A. W. The well -ripened seeds of Godetia,
Calystegia hederacea (pubescens), Lupin, Conval-
laria, Erythronium, Aquilegia, Thalictrum, Myo-
s vtis, and Anemone, would germinate to a large
p3 ■ cent, the second year if sown out of doors in
May, or on a mild bottom-heat earlier in the year.
1h' third year few of them would grow at all,

Duroline : C S. Useful for sheds and such like
purposes.

"Killmrigut" and Loss of Peach - leaves :
T. T. It may be, as stated by the makers, non-
poisonous when taken internally, but unless the
instructions sent with it are followed, injury to
plants in leaf would be likely to occur. You
should state your case to the firm who supplied
you with the stuff.

Man lire for Zonal Pelargoniums : Zonal.
Standen's, or Clay's, or Peruvian Guano, are as
good as any.

Manure for an Orchard of Plums and Apples :
Zonal. An orchard may be kept in good heart
with ordinary farmyard-manure, both liquid and
solid ; but after the trees come into bearing, the
land should receive a biennial dressing of potash
and nitrate of soda, superphosphate of lime, as
well as a surface-dressing of manure.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not. answered in
this issue are requested to be so e/ood as to consult
the following number. — Plympton. The flower
sent seems to be an imperfect one of Ladia
rubescens (peduncularis). ■ — E. K. Travellers'
Ivy, Clematis Yitalba.— H. H., Peebles. The
leaves of Codiieum, or Crotou, as they are more
often called in gardens, vary much, but yours
appear to be — 1, Evansianum ; 2, a form of
C. trilobatum ; 3, C. majesticum ; 4, C. elegaus ; .">,
C. Johaunis ; 6, C. angustifolium. — T. H., Ches-
hunt. The specimen is Dendrobium formosum.
It could not come from Mexico as an indigenous
plant. — W. P. W. The two varieties of La?lia
anceps are very fine in colour, but the segments
are narrow. The others are Cypripedium x
eardiuale aud Oncidium prsetextum. — ./. J. W.
Basella tuberosa. — F. W. Cattleya labiata : a
poor form.

Pelargonium: Baffled. The plants have been
potted too deeply, aud the stem has suffered
therefrom. The part beyond the affected point
will die, but the other part may live and throw

out shoots in course of time.

Primula obconica : A". There is no fungus or
other disease upon your plant. The leaves have
beeu injured by some detail in the cultural con-
ditions. Have your hot-water pipes been made
too hot, or have you treated the plants to
excessive fumigation '!

Solanum capsicastrum : Nemo. You will find an
article on the subject in our last issue.

South African Bulbs : G. A. IT. Pot all the
bulbs : the small ones several together in a pot,
and keep all of them tolerably dry until they
start into growth, after which afford water
moderately at first aud afterwards freely. Most
of them require to be thoroughly dried oft'
again after the growth is made, and the leaves
begin to wither. In summer they may be kept
in the open garden.

Streptocarpus with Yarif.gated Foliage :
P. W. We know of none.

Violets : A. B. The blooms of Marie Louise sent
were very fine ones.

Wire-work for Dinner-table Decoration :
A. W. Obtainable from the Horticultural Sun-
driesmen, probably.

Communications Rf.ceived.— I). W. Thomson.— A. 8.— S. M.
— H. Correvon.— Dobbie & Co.— H. E.-G. H. O., see this
week's Answers to Correspondents. — G. G. — A. S.—C. H.
— D. E. W.— R. J. A.— Sutton & Sons.— E. C. H. Thome —
G. G.-.I W. McHnttie.— C. W. S., York.— Jmnes.-G. C-
W. M.— E. S., Woking.— C. B.— J. .1. W.— S. J.— P. 13.-
A. D.

Important to Advertisers. — The Publisher has

the satisfaction of announcing that the circulation of the
" Gardeners1 Chronicle" has, since tlie reduction in the
price of the peeper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle" circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and alt. Classes of Gardeners
and Garden -lovers at home, that if has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation, and that it is
preserved for reference in all the jvrincipal Libraries.

{For Markets aud Weather, 8M p. x.)

January 21, 1S99.J

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

32

THE

(Sardwcrs' Qjtoniclc

SATURDAY, JANUARY 91; 1899.

THE FLORA OF CHINA.

IT is, perhaps, not saying too much to allege
that the Chinese and Japanese element in
our gardens and in our greenhouses is the most
attractive of all exotic representatives. Taking
those far Eastern plants that will flourish in the
open air in our western and southern counties,
and with very slight shelter in the less
favoured parts of the islands, it would be diffi-
cult to find a parallel. North America, and the
extreme parts of South America, and New Zea-
land, are largely represented in our gardens, but
China and Japan give to a great extent our winter
variation in flowers. Take, as examples, the
very diverse Chrysanthemum and the Camellia.
Moreover, it is especially in England that the
introduction and cultivation of these far Eastern
plants commenced and flourished. < >ther coun-
tries were before us in the earliest European
investigation of the marvellous flora of Cathay,
but thanks to the natural inclination of our race
for gardening and for cultivating plants for
their beauty, and, of course, to the facilities our
naval and mercantile marine gave us, we out-
distanced most other, if not all other, nations
in the introduction and cultivation of exotic
plants.

We do not forget the splendid collections cul-
tivated in the Imperial gardens of Austria, illus-
trated and described by the Jacquins, nor the
Paris and Berlin gardens of the end of the last and
the beginning of the present century. Nor do we
forget that the Dutch were before us in Japan ;
and that the famous work of Siebold and Zuc-
carini made us familiar with many of the pecu-
liar plants of the far East before they were
known and cultivated in the West. But a most
remarkable work that has just been published *
shows with great fidelity that our naval and
mercantile marine, apart from special collectors,
made extraordinary efforts to bring home seeds
and plants of such things as struck them as
being very different from what they had been
accustomed to see. One of our greatest writers has
said that the floras of the British Islands and
Japan were more alike than the floras of Mada-
gascar and Africa ; but most gardeners would
be able to refute this extraordinary statement.
Many of our wild flowers are very beautiful,
and our Oaks, Beeches, and Elms are grand
amongst trees ; yet they exhibit comparatively
little variety. Against our one or two species
of thes3 genera, China and Japan possess a
wealth that is positively bewildering. For
instance, at least a score of species of Oak
inhabit Japan, and in China no fewer than
forty species are at home. Since the com-
mencement of the publication of Forbes
and Hemsley's En time rat inn. of Chinese Phtntx,
upwards of fifteen hundred new species of
flowering plants have Veen described in
various publications, besides those described
in the work in question ; and there are probably

History of European Botanical QUooveriti in China-, by
, Bretschneider: M.U.

in the herbaria of Kew and Paris another five
hundred species still undescribed. Indeed, the
flora of Western China, especially in the moun-
tainous region of the provinces of Yunnan and
Szechuen, seems to be inexhaustible ; and so
many of the shrubs and herbaceous plants are
highly ornamental. There is probably no other
place in the world that would yield so many
hardy and half-hardy plants worth cultivating.
Hitherto, seeds of only a comparatively small
number have reached Europe. Therefore a
good harvest awaits a keen collector. Of course,
we already cultivate a large number of different
plants from the Far East, and if they were
eliminated from our gardens, there would be some
big gaps.

A glance through Dr. Bretschneider's book
of some one thousand one hundred and fifty
pages, enables us to realise how much China and
Japan have contributed to our gardens, and how
much more they have yet to offer. The talented
author has devoted years of research to his task,
which he has accomplished in a manner that
probably no other person could have equalled.
And what is a great boon to the large English-
speaking community of the world, it is written
in our mother tongue ; the style and idioms of
which have been practically mastered by the
writer. The book covers a much wider area
than the title indicates, including indeed be-
sides China, the surrounding countries, Japan,
Amur, Mandshuria, Mongholia, and Tibet to its
western extremity. It is a comprehensive
history of the botanical exploration of this wide
area, and to a great extent, of the persons
engaged thereon, chronologically arranged under
the various nationalities. He begins with Marco
Polo, the Venetian, who lived many years in
China during the latter part of the thirteenth
century, and to whom we are indebted for our
earliest knowledge of that vast empire and its
vegeta >le productions. But it was not until
the arrival of the Portuguese in China in 1516
that intercourse and trading with the Chinese
began. According to Bretschneider, the Por-
tuguese claim to have introduced the sweet
Orange from China into Europe before the
middle of the sixteenth century ; and they
also imported various Chinese drugs and other
vegetable productions. Very much of our earlier
knowledge of the country and its people and
products we owe, however, to the Jesuit
missionaries, who were exceedingly active during
the latter part of the sixteenth century and the
beginning of the seventeenth As early as Kill)
they had built ninety churches in the eastern
provinces, besides many in the interior. Michael
Boym, of this order, published the first Flora
Sinensix in 1050. It contains engravings of
twenty-one plants, mostly cultivated for their
fruit, and among them is one of those curious.
Figs which bear their fruit in huge clusters,
springing from the base of the trunk. The
Dutch followed the Portuguese in the far East,
and long had a monopoly of the trade with
Japan.

In 1037 an English fleet appeared in Chinese
waters, near Canton, and there is evidence in
Riy and Petiver's writings that dried plants
were received in this country from China pre-
vious to 1088 ; but James Cunningham (Cun-
ninghamia sinensis) is the first collector of
whom we have any definite record. He formed
a rich herbarium of Chinese plants (1698-
1709), which is now in the British Museum.
A century later, in Aiton's Hvrtus Kewemis,
we find about eighty Chinese plants recorded as
being in cultivation at Kew. The next notable
collection of dried plants that came to this

country was made by Sir George Staunton and
other members of Lord Macartney's Embassy
in 1793. They also introduced a number of
living plants. In 1803, William Kerr was
appointed botanical collector in China for Kew,
whither he sent numerous living plants, in-
cluding the familiar Kerria japonica. The
second edition of Aiton's Horhis Kexvemis
(1780-1813) contains nearly a hundred addi-
tional Chinese plants. Lord Amherst's Em-
bassy to the Chinese Court (1816-1817)
was the means of introducing many more
plants ; and Dr. Clarke Abel's narrative con-
tains an account of those observed and collected,
including Lindley's genus Abelia. A few years
before this (1810) the Horticultural Society of
London was founded. Previous to this — long
previous in some cases — many of the classical
Chinese plants, such as the Aster, Chrysanthe-
mum, Camellia, Aucuba, Azalea, Tree Preony , and
the Maidenhair Tree had been introduced into
British gardens ; but soon a greater impetus
was given to the introduction of plants by the
action of the Society — firstly, by means of cor-
respondents connected with commerce, and
afterwards by collectors sent out at the expense
of the Society. John Reeves (Reevesia thyr-
soidea), who was in China from 1812 to 1831,
sent home many ornamental plants, including
the charming Wistaria, in 1816 ; and his son,
J. R. Reeves, who spent thirty years in Canton,
was also active in the same cause. The original
plant of Wistaria is still growing at Chiswick.
Dendrobium nobile is another of their valuable
introductions ; it first flowered in. Loddiges'
nursery in 1837. John Potts (1821-2-'), was
the first collector who was sent to China by the
Society. He made a collection of forty varieties
of Chrysanthemums, but through an accident to
the ship they were all lost ; but he was more
successful with other plants. Hoya Pottsii was
raised from a single leaf brought home by him
in 1822. John D. Parks succeeded Potts in
1823, and he introduced a number of new
varieties of Chrysanthemums, described by
Joseph Sabine in the Transactions of the
Society ; a number of Camellias, and various
other plants.

Passing over numerous contributors to our
knowledge of Chinese plants in a living state,
we come to Robert Fortune, whose travel*
and explorations, beginning in 1843, and end-
ing in 1856, inaugurate, as Dr. Bretschneider
justly observes, a new era in the history of
botanical discoveries in China : and he devot»s
more than a hundred pages to a summary of
Fortune's collections and writings. These,
and the labours of subsequent travellers and
botanists, are better known to the present
generation. But everyone interested in the
history of gardening and botany should see Dr.
Bretschneider's book, which is a mine of
wealth, and a monument of industry and careful
research. W. B. E.

NOVELTIES OF 1898.

(Continued from p. 20.)

Stove anju Greenhouse Plants.— In these the
class called decorative still holds sway. New intro-
ductions are hailed with enthusiasm if they belong
to this class and are easily propagated ; otherwise,
they are handed over to the specialist or botanist.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons continue their
efforts to improve those showy things of which
they make a specialty. Hence, among the large
number of new Amaryllis which they have flowered
during 1898 some have received certificates, and of
these A. Clonia, white, veined scarlet ; Tacola, a
large vermilion flower ; Daones, brilliant scarlet ;

34

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 21, 1899.

and Ideala, white and scarlet, are the best ; as of
their new Cliveias, C. Optima and C. Favourite are
the most distinct.

At the great Temple Show one of the most
admired groups was composed of their hybrid strain
of Phylloccatus, P. Agatha and P. Epirus being
among the most beautiful. Their new forms of
greenhouse Rhododendrons, and their improved,
large-flowered strain of Streptocarpus also give
novel features, and among other useful new intro-
ductions of Messrs. .las. Veitch & Sous may be
noted Dracaena Exquisite, very graceful ; D.
Eckhautiana, a very handsome plant ; D. Duchess
of York, a tine decorative variety : aud Aloeasia
spectabilis, with silvery leaves 18 inches in length.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., of St. Albans and
Bruges, at the great Ghent Show, and more recently
in England, made a most remarkable display of new
plants. The one which attracted the most attention,
aud which will doubtless always be a standard plant
in gardens, was Acalypha hispida (= Sanderi,
hort. ). It is a most distinct plant, producing its long,
drooping, tail-like crimson inflorescences in great
profusion apparently in either stove or greenhouse.
As a sub-tropical plant also» it should give a new-
feature. Other fine new plants of the year by
Messrs. Sander, are Acalypha Godsetiiaua, a com-
pact and pretty decorative kind ; Leea sambucina
Roehrsiana, a very richly-tinted plant ; Dracaena
Broomfieldi, green with silver margin ; Paudauus
Sanderi, with gold-striped foliage ; Furcrsea Wat-
soni, and with cream-white variegation ; Draciena
aureo-striata and Alalia Balfouriana, both distinct
novelties ; Panax Mastersianus, an elegant aud
curious species; BegoBia Rex Mrs. F. Sander, with
vinous-crimson-tinted leaves ; Aloeasia Wavriniaua,
with bronzy, jagged foliage ; and Ptychosperma
Sanderi, P. Warleti, Ceratolobus Micholitzianus,
Keotia Kersteuiaua, Licuala Jeauenceyi, aud Liuo-
spadix Petrickiana, all haudsome Palms quite new
to gardens.

In tuberous Begonias, Caladiums, and Gloxinias,
specialties of Messrs. John Laing k Son, Cannell
& Son, and others, the work of improvement has
been successfully carried out, and among the many
line things shown, some have been deemed worthy
<>f ( ertificates.

Among the new introductions of Mr. Wm. Bull,
of Chelsea, two are specially noteworthy, viz.,
Dracaena Victoria, a very handsome type with
bright green leaves finely banded witli yellow ; and
( 'actus epiphyllum truncatum Princess, a charming
white or blush-white variety, and quits a new
departure in the species.

Ferns.

Notwithstanding the many new species which
have been described by Mr. Jenmau in the columns
of the GardU in rs' < 'hronidi , though exhibited seem
to have been mainly recruited by the efforts of the
market grower.

Mr. H. B. May, Upper Edmonton, leads with by
far the greater proportion of novelties which are
not only new and distinct but desirable market and
garden plants. In his fine group at the last Temple
Show were iucluded his best efforts iu new Ferns,
and of special note were his Phlebodium glaucum
Mayi, a charming Palm-like variation : Adiantnm
Hemsleyauum, au elegant aud light form, named
in hunour of the clever manager of the firm ; Pteris
creticaSunmiersii aud P. serrulate gracilis multiceps
two elegant new representatives of species supply
ing the largest proportion of all the market Ferns
grown ; Davallia fijiensis effusa, a stout grower,
with elegantly divided fronds ; Gymnogramma
chrysophylla graudiceps superba, which carries the
cresting to the extreme possible; and other good
tilings.

Florists' Flowers.

This popular section has in every class been
advanced by new introductions, the most note-
worthy of which have been illustrated iu the '- <ar
ih a, r I 'hronicle, and will be found enumerated iu
the following list.

Altogether, there is evidence that the work of

the past year compares favourably with that of
any period in the recent history of gardening,
and that the art in all its branches is more
generally takeu up than ever it has been before,
some of the things which had been slighted having
again showed signs of renewed vitality, as, for
example, the new Camellias shown by Mr. Wm.
Paul ; the hardy ornamental shrubs shown by
Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons; Messrs. Geo. Paul
& Son, whose Acer Negundo elegans, Ligustrum
Walkeri, and Acer Juhlkei variegata are useful
acquisitions : the Auriculas of Mr. Douglas and
others ; the Tree Pneonies which Mr. Kelway, of
hangport, seems to have taken up with the same
energy as he exercises in all the great cultures
which he undertakes ; and various other subjects
which, although not wholly neglected in gardens,
had not been so actively wprked of late, but which
during the past year seem to show a return to their
former favour.

•■ rnuli nvr.l .)

WATErV

Water is au essential factor iu the life of a
plant ; if moisture is wanting, or if the roots do not
transmit to the leaves water in quantities sufficient
to provide for losses due to transpiration, the plant
is endangered, aud ceases to grow. If the scarcity
of water contiuues, the crops dry up rapidly, and
yield but a poor return. These crops are only
abundant iu proportion as the moisture furnished
by the soil enables the plants to endure long periods
of drought without suffering.

To ensure this provision, the grower, from
autumn onwards, ploughs or digs up the laud har-
dened by the desiccation caused by the plants
themselves, and by the heats of summer. By
breaking the superficial crust the water is not
allowed to lie on the surface, but, on the contrary,
penetrates beneath it. The first work is, therefore,
undertaken with the special object of establishing
a reserve supply of water in the ground, and, con-
sequently, rendering it soft and pliable, so that
further workiugs become possible.

These operations provide a tilth that, by pro-
gress in the construction of machinery, can lie
rendered deeper aud deeper each year. It is
turned over, the soil is broken to a depth of from
12 to 14 inches; nevertheless, the plough often
forms hard compact clods, retaining water imper-
fectly ; ami the ground, after working, is not
completely prepared. It is needful to break these
clods by harrows, scarifiers, Norwegian harrows, or
CrosskilTs rollers, the object being to make the
soil mellow aud porous, so that on the oue hand
it may be charged with moisture, and on the other
that it may allow all the water which it does not
retain to filter through to the subsoil, thus ensuring
it from loss by evaporation.

According as this pulverisation is thoroughly
done, or imperfectly executed, the reserve of water
will be copious or scanty, and the yield good
or bad.

A good cultivator knows his land well : he
knows in what condition it should be to be profit-
ably worked, he knows the exact time to make the
necessary preparation. If he acts carelessly, the
soil is compacted into clods, it is badly tilled, and
the crops dry up as soon as there is any lack of
rain.

Winter is the season when this provisiou for
water should be made, and consequently the earth
should lie worked then. When the seed-time
comes, if an opportune rain does not fall to soften
the seed and ensure germination, fresh stirrings and
diggings are necessary.

When after the spring sowing the ground is hard,
au endeavour must be made to supply the water
lacking. The reserve supplies iu the deep soil can
aloue be resorted to ; to raise these to the higher
levels, the land is rolled, and thus the continuity
between the layer of worked soil and the sub-soil,
which the working itself checked, is re-established.
Instead of improving the soil, the object is to call

into action capillarity, by means of which the water
from the deep soil is raised to the superficial layers
where the seeds have been placed. We have seen,
iu fact (in the A nnales Agronomiques, t. xxii, p. 459),
that worked land containing in 100 volumes f rom •
38 '3 to 40 volumes of air, holds only from 33 '3 to
31 6 after rolling; the particles of earth being
then brought together, and the rise of water
facilitated.

All the successive operations during the year,-
therefore, aim especially at accumulating in the
soil a supply of water sufficient, on the one hand,
to allow it tp .pass deep down so as to serve as
provision for the long roots ; and, on the other,
to cause it to rise, into the upper soil to favour the
germination of the seed. If it be remembered that
the useful ferments contained in the soil, those
which secure atmospheric nitrogen, as well as those
which form the nitrates, are only effectual under
conditions of moisture, if, further, it lie remembered
that in worked land carefully pulverised the
quantity of nitrates formed is very great, it is plain
that the cultivator should always consider the
working of the land as the true source of abundant
harvests, and remember that everywhere the
emblem of agriculture is an implement used from
all antiquity to dress the earth — the plough [whilst
for garden use the spade is even more effectual. Ed. ].
M. Jh'/trrain in "Annates Agronomiques," t. xxiii,
p. 490.

SEEDING OF- THE GEE AT BAMBOO
(RAMBUSA ARUNDINACEA).

Some accouut of the seeding of this plant iu its
native country may not be out of place at the
present time, wlieu the cultivation of the hardier
kinds of Bamboo in Great Britain is receiving such
general attention, creating, as it were, another link
of sympathy between the nations of the East and
West, bringing to the minds of former travellers
familiar aud graceful objects in the landscapes of
foreign climes, and to the untravelled some idea of
the graceful beauty of one of the most interesting
and wonderful genera of plants. It would almost
appear that there is nothing in this life unaccom-
panied with some disappointing drawback, and
the more exquisite " a thing of beauty " it first
appears, the more crushing the subsequent dis-
appointment.

In the case of the genus under notice, the draw
back undoubtedly is the death of the plant after
producing seed, this effort of reproduction being, I
believe, iu most if not all the species, fatal to the
existence of the parent plant.

The seeding aud subsequent death of at least some
of the hardier kinds of Bamboo in Britain may,
perhaps, be familiar enough to some people, but it
may be doubted if it has fallen to the lot of many
Englishmen to have witnessed the phenomena on a
large scale in the native country of the Bamboo. It
was my lot early in life to see this mysterious act
of Nature in relation to the huge forests of Bam-
busa arundinacea covering hundreds of square
miles of couutry in Malabar andCoorg, iu Southern
India, aud reaching far into the adjoining province
of Mysore. It was at the close of the year 1862
that I took up my residence in an upland district
of. Malabar, where the slopes of the Western Ghauts
were clothed with gigantic evergreen forests, aud
from their base stretching for several miles
into the Mysore territory, grew a veritable forest
of Bamboo, intermixed with Teak and other
deciduous and hard-wooded trees, the Bamboo
predominating.

My primary object is to give some accouut of the
seeding of the Bamboo, I yet cannot help writiug a
few words on the beauty and grandeur of this forest
as I first beheld it, and before "decay's defacing
fingers " had wrought desolation. Viewed as a
whole from au emiuence, nothiug could well surpass
the splendour of this vast area of waving plumes
rising to a height of 00 to 70 feet ; aud individually
the clumps as seen more or less isolated on the
grassy laterite knolls, were of surpassing beauty.
From March until nearly Christmas, the Bamboo is

January 21, 1899. J

THE GAB DENE R S' CHRONICLE.

clothed with leaves of a pale delicate green, after
which they begin to fall, and the jungle for a month
or two is shorn to a great extent of its attractive-
ness. But there is extra beauty in the young leaves
as they begin to appear in response to the first
showers of spring, 1 shall never forget a ride I
took on ray first arrival in the country along a road
leading from Malabar into Mysore, and cut right
through the heart of the Bamboo-jungle, and when
the trees had on their best attire. The huge clumps
.stood almost at regular intervals close by the road
on either side, the culms bending over and forming
a complete archway of greenery for miles. This

century, and which is then accompanied with the
annihilation of the parent plants.

When the seed became quite ripe, it fell to the
ground, which was quickly covered with what had
a wonderfully close resemblance to Oats. This fall
was the signal to the jungle tribes to lay up a store
of the grain to serve them during the ensuing mon-
soon, and groups of men and women were to be seen
all over the forests gathering and deftly winnowing
the seeds, whilst pea-fowl, jungle-fowl, partridge,
and others of the feathered tribe, were not slow in
taking advantage of the bountiful supply of food,
and waxed fat and laz}', and so became an easy

adequate idea of the scene of desolation the country
presented after the death of the Bamboos ever the
whole extent of this maguificent forest, which was
transferred suddenly from a -soene of surpassing
splendour into one of dust 'rind ashes. Tha mon-
soon, whieh had brought revivifying power to the
leafless I Bamboos for the. byegon« fifty, years,
and bid-theniagain and- again burst into leaf and
beauty, at last failed, in its appeal to the ".dull cold
ear of death."

The succeeding hot season began its drying pro-
cess on the dead culms, preparing them for tlte
fires which were destined eventually to clear tike

Fit. 10. — ANi:R.JXTM YKITL'Hl : A HYBRIB FROM A. SKSQl ITEDA Lb; BY A. EBURNEC-U.

issue ■• On-hid CtHQiuittee, in \> 31 of our last is*ul-. >

was the grandest triumphal archway I ever beheld,
and when the subsequent seeding and destruction

. came, one could hardly help lamenting the inexorable
laws of Nature.

Very soon after my arrival in Malabar, I heard
rumours that the Bamboo forests of Travaucore to
the south were iu seed, and in the following season
our t(iirn came, aud-then that of Coorg to the north.
So that this strange frutesceuce would appear to
have taken place in sections, beginning at the most
southern poiut of India, and travelling northwards

' year by year.

When the seed became fully ripe, the culms were
quite divested of leaves, and bent down with the

• heavy load of oat-like seeds — a magnificent harvest,

• it is true. but. one which only scours twice ia a

prey to the fowlers gun. Long, however, before a
tithe of the rich store could be consumed the season
of jungle-fires began, and added by the thick coat-
ing of leaves on the ground, completely licked the
Bamboo forests from end to end, to all appearance
converting into charcoal every seed that had
dropped from the trees, extinguishing every hope
that the land would ever again resume its former
appearance. Nature, however, had her own secret
way of preservation, and a^ time went on, tiny
little Bamboo seedlings began to appear, which
year by year increased in strength till, iu 1877. or
fifteen years from the time of seeding of the forests,
the country had all but resumed its former
.grandeur.

No description of mine omM possibly couvey an

country of every vestige of the old forest. It was
several years, however, before this process was
completed, and here again rested a marvel, viz.,
how the young seedlings escaped with life and
increased in stature through the years of heat and
smoke.

For several seasous in succession the country was
filled with smoke from the combustion of the dead
and dry culms from about Jauuary to April, which
made it very unpleasant to the lives of the Coffee-
planters and others. There was kept up night and
day also a succession of loud reports from the
ignition of the peut-up gases between the joiuts of
the huge culms.

I do not know, but I .sometimes doubt if there
<is any example io the .vegetable kingdom « liieh

36

THE GAEDE NE R S' CHE 0 NI CL E.

[January 21, 1S99.

can boast of a more rapid growth in a given space
of time than the culms of a fully-developed plant
of Bambusa arundinacea in its native clime. The
clumps send up a yearly supply of culms, which
begin to appear in February, and by the end of
July they have reached a height of from 60 to
70 feet, and are well furnished with lateral branches
from top to bottom, with a diameter, close to the
ground, of some S or 9 inches. The culms, as they
ssue from the ground, are furnished with a curious
protecting capping of brown -coloured sheaths, which
they retain till they reach a considerable height,
aud the points are out of danger — an admirable
protective process of Nature.

With reference to the longevity of the Bamboo, I
took considerable paius to arrive at the approximate
truth. I questioned aud cross-questioned on many
occasions the jungle tribes, who had their homes in
the seclusion of these Bamboo wilds, aud who,
previous to the advent of the Coffee-planting
industry, hardly ever left, but lived on the produce
from their small clearings, edible roots dug with
pointed stakes from the woods, honey, and the
fruits of the chase. One tribe was called Jain
Coorumbers, or, in plain English, honey men, or
honey collectoz-s. They are a lively race of people,
with a wonderful amount of intelligence, and withal
a rare appreciation, among natives, of fun and
humour. I singled out several of the elder and most
intelligent of this interesting tribe for my inquiries,
and arrived at the conclusion that fifty years, or
thereabouts, was the limit to the life of Bambusa
arundinacea. There were several other species of
Bamboo in the district, which, curiously enough,
seeded simultaneously with B. arundinacea.

The uses to which the larger Bamboo is put in
Malabar and other provinces of Southern India are
too numerous to mention, and it would be difficult
to imagine what the natives would do without it.

The Bamboo in Malabar is found almost from the
sea level up to an elevation of something over 3000
feet, so that its range is considerable, aud although
it is generally described as a stove-plant in England,
it might, I think, flourish in a house with less heat
than that usually assigned to a stove, and might
possibly, without hurt form an interesting object in
the sub-tropical garden during a warm summer.
To make the canes more lasting, aud, in some
measure prevent the ravages of the white ant, the
natives of Malabar adopt the practice of soaking
them in water for some mouths before putting them
to use.

The belief, or rather superstition, obtaining in
some parts of England with regard to the influence
of the moon on vegetation is also found amongst the
natives of Malabar, and no native will cut a tree or
a Bamboo for his own use during the wane of the
moon.

For some reason unexplained these Bamboo
forests of Malabar are very unhealthy, alike to
European and native. Ague and fever prevail,
more especially during the showery weather of
spring, aud immediately after the end of the south-
west monsoon, when the ground begins to dry, or,
as the natives put it, "during the making of mud
and the making of dust." The natives sometimes
attribute the prevalence of malarial fever in these
jungles to the quality of the water, and I have
frequently known a gang of coolies fresh from the
Mysore stop at a Coffee plantation and taste the
water, and then pass on to the next plantation.

If I am correct in thinking that the life of Bam-
busa arundinacea is limited to fifty years, those
forests in Malabar which 1 saw in seed and then
perish, will again come to maturity about the year
1913, when will be witnessed a very curious pheno-
menon in the vegetable kingdom. /. Lovsrie.

MANUEIAL KEQUIEEMENTS OP
ORCHARDS AND FRUIT TREES.

It does not seem to be sufficiently understood
that fruit trees use up plant-foods in the same
way that other crops do. The commou neglect of
orchards seems to show that many fruit-growers

think otherwise, or else do not think about the
matter at all.

We are told by Mr. L. H. Bailey {Principles of
Fruit drawing*) that the depletion of land by fruit-
trees is very serious, from the fact that plant-foods
are locked up for many years in the trunks and
branches of the trees. On the other hand, it may
be mentioned that the roots of trees have a larger
foraging area than the roots of smaller-growing aud
annual crops. Thus, we find the roots of trees
extending widely in search of food, while the roots
of an annual crop have a comparatively limited
range.

Fruit removes from the soil certain proportions
of potash, phosphoric acid, aud nitrogeu, and these
elements must be replaced if fruit-growing is to be
a success. Potash is the predominating constituent
in Apples, Cherries, Damsons, Peaches, Grapes, and
most stone-fruits, while nitrogen takes the lead in
Pears. A sufficiency of lime is also very essential
in the growth of Pears.

The following table gives the relative amounts
of the essential ingredients iu Apples, Pears, and
Peaches per 100 bushels of fruit : —

Selected Constituents in 100 Bushels of Three Descriptions of
Fruit.

In 100 Bushels of—

Phosphoric
Acid.

lb.

n,

Apples

1

10

Pears

1}

4

Peaches

n

13

Potash. | Nitrogen.

Apple-fruit.

Apple-tree Leaves.

499 lb.

457 It).

729 „

442 „

3S „

126 „

It is more economical to grow large marketable
fruit than small unsaleable samples, as the latter
take from the soil, bushel for bushel, more of the
elements of plaut-food than the better grades of
fruit do.

Professor Roberts has estimated the amount of
plant-food which may be expected to be carried
away in the fruit of the Apple, and blown away iu
the leaves of the tree (not computing the amount
stored up in the wood), for the period between the
ages of thirteen aud thirty-three years of Apple-
trees, to be as follows : —

Nitrogeu

Potash

Phosphoric acid

Thus, it is seen that, duriug the twenty years of
friutiug-growth, there will be required iu fruit and
leaves 956 lb. of nitrogen, 1171 lb. of potash, and
164 lb. of phosphoric acid.

While the above results are obtained by as-
suming a given amount of Apple-fruit and leaves
per year in a fruitful orchard, and while the facts
in auy given case, at any given time, may vary
widely, yet it is believed that these figures are
valuable, because they furnish a means of measuring
in any given case with a great degree of accuracy
the amount of soil exhaustion.

With regard to the question of manure, whatever
is used as an orchard fertiliser should be readily
available, so that the trees can be benefited from
the period the manure is worked into the soil.

Professor Voorhees writes : "It is argued by
many, and sometimes by those who should know
better, that fruit growing is quite similar to growing
timber-trees ; that the question of soil-exhaustion
is not a matter of very great importance, provided
the soil is well cultivated, and that all soils contain
sufficient quantities of the food elements to ensure
the relatively small available supply required from
year to year."

It is admitted that on soils of good mechanical
condition, well drained and cultivated, which are
naturally adapted by their fertility for fruit-grow-
ing, because well supplied with the essential con-
stituents, namely, nitrogen, phosphoric acid, potash,
aud lime, the exhaustion arising from the continuous
removal of fruit crops will not become apparent for
a long time ; but it should be emphasised that it is

* The principles of Fruit Growing, by L. H. Bailey (Pub-
lishers, Macmillan & Co., London).

only upon soils which possess these characteristics
that the growth of fruit, even poor fruit, can be
obtained for any considerable period without the
application of manure.

It is evident that the manurial requirements of
culinary vegetables and similar crops must be dif-
ferent from those necessary to the gtowth of fruit.
In the first place, as a rule, vegetable crops require
but one year for the entire processes of growth and
maturation. For fruit-crops, on the other hand,
with but few exceptions, the purely vegetative
processes continue for at least three years, and with
many kinds much longer. After the fruit-bearing
period begins the vegetative processes do not cease,
but are coincident with the growth and ripening of
the final product, the fruit.

In the second place, the yield of fruit-trees differs
very materially in its character from that of
ordinary garden crops, which develop and mature
their products in one season ; while the larger
fruits, such as Apples, Pears, Quinces, &c, require
a whole season for their growth and maturation.
Accordingly, it is necessary that there should be a
constant transfer of the nutritive juices from the
tree to the fruit throughout the entire growing
season, while the growth for each succeeding year
of both trees and fruit is dependent upon the
nutrition acquired and stored up in the buds and
branches, as well as upon that which may be derived
directly from the soil.

In the third place, the relation of fruit-growing
to soil exhaustion is very different from that in
kitchen-garden crops, because in orchards there is
an annual demand for specific kinds and proportions
of soil constituents ; it is really a continuous
cropping of the same kind ; there is no opportunity,
as in the case of ordinary garden crops, to correct
the tendency to exhaustion by a frequent change of
crops, or the frequent growth of those which
require different kinds and amounts of plant-food
constituents.

In studying methods of manuring orchards, how-
ever, it must be admitted that the general principles
of manuring which apply to fruits, apply quite as
well to kitchen vegetables ; that is, the essential
constituents of manures must be the same. A
fruit-tree will not make normal growth in a soil
destitute of nitrogen. That nitrogen encourages
leaf-growth is a recognised fact, and since trees
grow by means of both leaf and root, its presence is
required in the soil in order to promote the growth
and extend the life of the tree.

It is evident, too, that potash is an essential con-
stituent in the growth of fruits, not only because it
constitutes a large proportion of the ash of the
wood of the Apple, Pear, Cherry, and Plum, and
sometimes more than fifty per cent, of the ash of
fruit, but because it forms the base of the well-
known fruit acids ; and in order to nourish a tree
properly, as well as to insure proper ripening,
phosphoric acid is also very essential, especially for
stone-fruits.

It is also a matter of common observation that,
in the production of stone-fruits particularly, lime
is an importaut constituent. Its function seems to
be to strengthen the stems and woody portions of
the tree, to shorten the period of growth, and to
hasten the time of ripening. Fruit-trees growing
on soils rich in lime show a stocky, steady, vigorous
growth, and the fruit ripens well, while those ou
soils which contain but little lime, particularly the
clays, appear to have an extended period of growth,
the result of which is, that the wood does not
mature, and the fruit does not ripen properly.
J. J. Willi*, Harptndtn.

CURIOSITIES OF ORCHID

BREEDING.
(Continued from ;.. 14.)
Prepotent Generic Crosses. — Perhaps the
strangest curiosity in the history of Orchid
hybridisation is the remarkable prepotency of
the genus Zygopetalum over the three genera
Odontoglossum, Oncidium, and Lycaste, so far as

Jani-ary 21, 1899.]

THE GABDENEBS' CHBONICLE,

37

experiments have been made. Zygopetalum Mac-
kayi (Hooker) has been crossed with four distinct
species of Odontoglossum, viz., 0. Pescatorei
(Linden), 0. crispum (Lindl.), 0. grande (Lindl.),
and 0. bictonense (Lindl.), also with one species
of Oncidium, 0. unguiculatum, and one species of
Lycaste, L. Skiuneri (Lindl.), by more than one
hybridist, and the result has always been the same,
namely, Zygopetalum Mackayi pure and simple,
without a trace of the peculiar structure of the
pollen-parent in any case. The result is very
perplexing, and exceedingly difficult to account for.
Parthenogenesis, too, is evidently a broken reed to
lean upon, for the seedlings from the same seed-pod
differed among themselves in colour and other
minor characters, which would hardly have been
the case had they arisen from partheuogenetic seed-
buds. Neither is Z. Mackayi naturally prepotent
over other species when crossed, there being at
least three cases to the contrary. Nor is the genus
Zygopetalum naturally prepotent over other genera,
as two distinct and intermediate hybrids between
Zygopetalum and Colax testify. As in the case
of the Epidendrum crosses, mentioned above, it
may be suggested that Zygopetalum is the ancestral

lisation. More than twelve distinct crosses be-
tween different species of these two genera are on
record, and many plants have been raised, but so
far all resolutely refuse to flower, notwithstanding
the many inducements that have been put in their
way, and many of them are nowlargevigorousplants,
long past the usual flowering age. One plant of
these crosses is recorded to have flowered in the
United States, but as it flowered exactly the same
as the mother-plant in genus, species, and variety,
one cannot be quite sure that the cross was really
effected.

Many of the remaining plants (the writer has
several in his collection) are distinctly intermediate
in their foliage and habit of growth, and clearly
bear the stamp of their recorded origin.

Secondary and Tertiary Hybrids.
Of the 800 distinct crosses mentioned in the fore-
going, some 270 are secondary hybrids, i.e., hybrids
of the second generation, one or both parents being
a primary hybrid ; while thirty are tertiary
hybrids, i.e., hybrids of the third generation, one
of the parents, at least, being a secondary hybrid.
So far no hybrid Orchids are recorded to have

forms approaching either parent, the whole forming
a series of links between one parent and the other.
In short, we find that secondary hybrids have a far
wider range of variation than have primary hybrids.

Natural Hybrids.
The existence of natural hybrids was formerly
thought by some naturalists to be highly impro-
bable, if not actually impossible. But now, when
absolute facsimiles of supposed natural hybrids
have been raised by hand in gardens, from the
same two species among which they naturally grow,
they can no longer be regarded as pious speculations,
but are indeed accomplished facts. The number of
proved natural hybrids in Orchids alone is now
very considerable, with the result that many inter-
mediate and doubtful forms, hitherto classed as
distinct species, are now placed in their proper
positiou as natural hybrids. Mr. R. A. Rolfe, of
Kew, has done yeoman service in reducing the
chaos of uatural hybrid Orchids to something like
order. Aud so it has come to pass that artificial
hybridisation, which it was supposed would lead
systematic botany into the direst confusion, by the
irony of fate, seems destined to be the only trust-
worthy means of saviug systematic botany from its
own confusion ; and the systematist, however
orthodox lie may be, can no longer afford to ignore
artificial hybrids. ('. C. Hunt, hi "Nature."
{To be continued].

FlG. 11. — EPI-UATTLEYA MRS. JAMES O'BRIEN X
FLOWERS ROSY-PURPLE,

genus of Odontoglossum, Oncidium, and Lycaste,
and that the characters of the ancestral genus
remain latent in the more recent genera, with the
result that when the latter are crossed with the
former, the mixing of the germ-plasms causes these
original characters to dominate, the outcome being
a reversiou to the ancestral genus Zygopetalum.

A rather interesting fact has come to light which
certainly lends colour to the above speculation : —
The seedling Odontoglossums, raised iu the gardens
of Baron Rothschild, of Paris, during the first
eighteen months of their growth, are said to have
resembled Zygopetalum more than they did Odon-
toglossum. This coincides with the established
fact that living beings tend to resemble their
ancestors in the early stages of their development.

Another curious fact iu connection with generic
crosses may perhaps be of interest, and that is the
remarkable crosses between the East Indian species
of Cypripedium and the South American species ;
these two sections of the old genus Cypripedium have
recently been raised to generic rank, under the
names of Paphiopedium aud Phragmipedium respec-
tively, by Mr. R. A. Rolfe, of Kew, and seem to
form two distiuct and natural groups. Hybrids
between these two new genera are peculiarly in-
teresting, inasmuch as the former has a one-celled
ovary, while the latter has a three-celled one,
showing that this couditiou is no barrier to ferti-

flowered beyond the third generation, but perhaps
it may not be premature to mention that undowered
hybrids of the fourth generation are known to be
in existence. The writer has iu his collection six
hybrids of the fourth generation, five years old, all
raised from the same capsule, and which contain iu
their pedigree five distiuct species, aud three dis-
tiuct hybrids ; so that in the near future there will
be ample material in this direction at the disposal
of the student of heredity ; with this distinct
advantage, that Orchids being individually valuable,
their pedigree is carefully and systematically re-
corded, which unfortunately is more than one can
say of the great majority of garden hybrids .

A careful examination of secondary hybrids
shows them to be very different from primary
hybrids in their range of variation. As we have
already seen, primary hybrids are comparatively
uniform iu their characters ; so much so, that, as a
rule, they are quite distinct from their parents.
On the other hand, secondary hybrids have a much
wider range of variation, often approaching either
parent, and sometimes even reverting wholly to one
or the other. For instance, to take the simplest
form of a secondary hybrid, i.e., a hybrid crossed
with one of its parent species. We find that the
offspring, as a rule, are very variable, a few revert-
ing to the parent species, aud a few to the parent
hybrid ; but the great majority are intermediate

Orchid Notes and Gleanings,

EPIOATTLEYA MRS. J. O'BRIEN.

This is a cross between an Epidendrum, itself of
hybrid origin, and Cattleya Bowriugiana. The plant
was raised by Mr. Sedeu, and shown at the Royal
Horticultural Society on the 10th inst. by Messrs.
Veitch, when it received an Award. The habit
is that of Epidendrum, and the general appear-
ance of the flower (fig. 11) is also like that of an
Epidendrum, but the lip, although connate with the
column, as in Epidendrum, has its scoop-like lateral
lebes partially encircling the column, thus showing
traces of its Cattleya parentage, and the rich deep
rosy-lilac colour of the flower recalls that of
Cattleya Bowringiana. The upper end of the column
is petaloid, as in Cattleya ; so that, while on the
whole, the appearance is that of Epidendrum, closer
scrutiny reveals the existence of peculiarities
belonging to Cattleya.

The flower is about 4 to 5 cent, in its longest
diameter, aud rather less transversely. The sepals
are ovate-lanceolate, broad at the base, about
1 cent, broad in the centre. The petals are about
15 mill, across, the broadest portion being between
the base and the middle. They are ovate-oblong,
narrowed at the base, so as to be almost stalked.
In colour, both the sepals and the petals are bright
rosy-lilac. The lip is even deeper iu colour,
between 2 and 3 cent, in longest diameter, 2 cent.
in greatest breadth. The stalk of the lip is connate
with the column ; the disc is oblong, with two
lateral, obloug, rounded, erect lobes, and one
anterior, flat, spreading lobe, the latter beiug
divided into two rounded, slightly-toothed lobules,
separated by an excised sinus. The column is
about 1 cent, long, deflexed into a horizontal
position, dilated above into two petaloid lobes, one
on each side of the concave stigma. The two
halves of the anther are widely separate ; each of
the four subdivisions contains a linear, imperfectly-
developed granular pollen-mass. The slender,
elongate ovary is marked by six prominent
rounded ribs, separated by as many furrows. It
contains a single cavity, with no trace of ovules.

Dictionnaire Iconographiquc des Orchidees.
The last numbers, dated August and September,
1898, but which have only lately reached us,
coutain figures of Angra-cum eburneum, Bory ;
Cattleya granulosa var. Schofieldiana ; Cypripedium
Lachesis, Reg. Young ; C. nitens superbum ; Den-
drobium Calceolaria, Carey ; D. densiflorum, Wal-
lich ; Odontoglossum crispum var. Wrigleyauum ;

38

THE GARDE NEBS' C Bit ONI CLE:

[January 21, 1899.

O. eitrosmum, Lindley ; Oncidium micropogon,
Rchb. f. ; Phaius, Norman, var. roseus ; Sobralia
xantholeuca, hort. ; Vanda Kimballiana, Kchb. f. ;
Vanda Denisoniana, Benson and Rchb. f. In the
September number are Angrcecum modestum, Hook.
f. ; Cattleya labiata var. Petersii marmorata ; C.
Prewetti, hort. ; Cyrtopodium punctatum, Lindley ;
Dendrobium superbiens, Kchb. f. ; Lrelio Cattleya,
Kranzlini var. Clementina3 ; Miltonia Candida var.
purpureoviolacea, Cogniaux ; Odontoglossum Hun-
newellianum, Rolfe ; 0. Andersonianum, Rchb. f. :
Oncidium chrysornorphurn, Lindley ; 0. caloglossum,
Rchb. f. ; PhaU-enopsis amabilis, Blume : Vanda
lamellata, Boxalli, Rchb. f.

This useful little publication, which has the
immense advantage of scientific accuracy, has now
completed its second year of publication, and a list
of all the plates hitherto published is given,
arranged in the order in which they may be placed
in the little portfolios issued with the plates. At
present a considerable number of the genera are
without any "farde special," but we trust, as the
series progresses this defect may be remedied, so
that each genus may have its own portfolio. We
are glad to find that M. Cogniaux does not break
up the old genus Cypripedium, but adopts the
newly-proposed names as sectional.

The Week's Work,

TEE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester,

Bedding-plants. — All stock plants should be kept
well up to the light to keep the growth sturdy and
the foliage strong ; give sufficient water to keep them
from flagging, so that in a few weeks' time, when the
daylight lengthens, and with the application of more
heat, they will throw good cuttings. Pelargoniums
should have plenty of air and light, to prevent
damping-off. Keep all flower-buds picked off, as
this weakens the growth.

Pa-omen. — Plauts of P. officinalis, which, having
grown into large clumps, are showing signs of weak
growth in the centres through the soil having
become exhausted, should be lifted and divided
into pieces by means of a sharp spade, leaving on
each division from four to eight crowns. All roots
much damaged in the operations should be removed
with a kuife, and the wounds dressed with powdered
charcoal. The divisions, when early planted, take
readily to the new soil, and bloom freely the secoud
year. If planted in shady positions, the blooms
last in perfection a long time. The stations for the
new plants should be heavily manured and deeply
trenched, new loam and crushed bones being added
to the staple.

Tree Pceonies(P. Mouta n).- -These, unfortunately,
push their young growths so early in the spring
that the flower -buds are apt to get killed by
frost. In plauting choose a position facing west,
or where the cold cutting wind from the east does
not reach them, but as fully exposed to the light as
possible, consistently with the necessary shelter,
so as to encourage stocky growth ; isolated places
on lawns, or in nooks backed up by shrubs,
suit these varieties admirably. In planting
Moutan Pa;onies, being usually grafted on stocks of
the common Moutan and P. albiflora, should be
planted sufficiently deep to cover the point of
union. A nice selection of the best double varieties,
and those which can be purchased in good-sized
plants, may consist of Reine Elizabeth, Gloria
Belgarum, Jeanne d'Aro, Louise Mouchelet, Madame
de Vatry, Madame Laffay, Madame Stuart Low
(very fine), Princess Louise, Gloire de Versailles,
Marchioness of Granby (semi-double), and Rubida.

Herbaceous Pceonies. — These plauts being per-
fectly hardy, require but little attention when
planted properly ; and the flowers are excellent
for cutting, being delicately scented, and very
showy. Here we have them planted on the edge
of shrubberies, or in kidney-shaped beds, alternate
with the yellow-flowered crown Imperial, Fritillaria
imperialis maxima lutea, for the sake of the pleas-
ing contrast of the yellow flowers of the former,
agaiust the young red shoots of the Paeonies. In
planting these varieties, the same kind of compost
may be used as I have recommended for the tree

section. In selecting places for them in the
shrubberies, see that the shrub near is not one
whose roots will rapidly encroach and deprive the
plant of its nutriment. There are so many good
varieties that I will only name a few of the best,
that is, those which have good substance, fine colours
and good form, viz., Duke of Clarence, Glory of
Somerset, Mountebank, Princess Beatrice, Princess
May, Queen Victoria, Lady Alexandra Macduff,
Gwendoliu Cecil, Lord Rosebery, Connie Culot,
General Millekiu, Lottie Collins, Festiva, Phormis
extra fine, and Persimmon. These should have
prominent places afforded them, and older varieties
removed, parted, and planted in the reserve garden.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Ph almnopsis. — Various members of this interesting
genus will, when grown with success, be on the point
of displaying their blossoms, and the species about
to do so are P. amabilis, grandirlora and its variety
aurea, Schilleriana, Stuartiaua, Sanderiana, and
the natural hybrids casta, Cynthia, leucqrrhoda, and
intermedia. The plants, if suspended now, will
have to be lowered as the spikes lengthen, in order
to prevent contact with the roof. The plants will
need a fair amount of moisture at the root and
humidity in the air, more indeed than otherwise
would be the case if it were not necessary to use
fire-heat largely to maintain the required tempera-
ture. My method of affording water to Phalsenopsis
is to immerse the baskets containing them in a pail
of water to about two-thirds of their depth, leaving
capillary attraction to moisten the remaining por-
tion of the materials. In doing this, frequent
applications are necessary, and the sphagnum-moss
never gets into a saturated state. Failure in the
cultivation of these lovely plants is often due to
attempts made to keep the sphagnum-moss living
and green by frequent and copious applications of
water during the winter mouths. Phalajuopsis
Luddemanuiana, P. violacea, P. speciosa, P. Maria1,
P. Boxalli, P. tetraspis, and others of that section,
should occupy the moistest and shadiest part in the
East Indian-house, and should be afforded water in
the same manner as the other species. P. Esme-
ralda, and its varieties anteuuifera and Brysoniaua,
with P. Lowii, will need water only occasionally,
to prevent the young leaves shrivelling. 1 believe
they are deciduous in a state of nature, aud the
last-named is often so under cultivation, without
being apparently injured thereby. Drip from the
sash-bars always causes injury when it falls into
the centre of a plant, and to lessen the chances of
injury from this cause the plants should occupy
positions midway between the bars. It is well to
carry a soft-haired brush when watering, so that
should any water fall into a plant it cau be
removed. The sash-bars should lie wiped with a
sponge fastened to the end of a stick when there is a
large accumulation of moisture ou them.

Destroyint) Slugs anil Snail*. — The mild open
weather suits most of the inmates of the cool-
houses, aud the small amount of fire-heat used or
necessary is especially beneficial to Odontoglossum
crispum aud allied species. Many of the plants in
these houses are throwing up their flower-spikes,
needing careful protection from slugs and snails.
To capture these creatures, saucers containing brau,
Cabbage and Lettuce-leaves, and other tempting
baits should be placed amongst the plants, aud
examined nightly. The practice of standing the
plauts on au inverted pot, placed in a saucer of
water, is not to be commended, as the potting
materials remain wet for too long a period of time
to be good for the plants. Wadding also placed
round the flower-spike is of little avail, for it soon
gets moist, aud then it forms no longer a barrier to
the slugs. A plan worthy of a trial is to iusert a
disc of perforated ziuc between the plant-receptacle
and the one it stands on, its edges extending about
au inch from either.

be safe to adopt a higher temperature. The mate
rials for affording bottom-heat will probably stand
in need of replenishing, so that no serious fluctuation
of warmth to check root-action ensues. If the
plunging-thermometer indicates a temperature above
80°, raise the pots slightly from their position, so
that some of the heat may escape, and when a
cooling of the bed takes place, the pots may be re-
plunged. When five or six leaves have been formed
pinch out the growing point of the stronger shoots ;
weaker ones may be stopped before they reach this
length. This regulation of the growth will assist
the fruit, as well as prepare for a successional crop
in the current season's shoots. A temperature of
70° from fire-heat will be ample for the earliest
trees, with 10° higher during sunshine. At this
point ventilation may be afforded, in accordance
with external conditions. Syringing will be
necessary daily when there is sun, and the floors
must be kept moist by repeated damping down
with a rose watering-pot or a syringe.

Successional Trees. — These usually occupy a portion
of a house in which Peaches or Vines are grown,
the back wall frequently being allotted them.
Here their general treatment is identical with that
given the other inmates. If the Fig crop is an
important one, they will have priority of attention.
The same routine in cleaning of the roof aud walls,
dressing the trees with an insecticide when scale or
mealy-bug have been troublesome, should be given
as with earlier-started trees. Where there is
a tendency to excess of vigour, there is yet
time to correct it by shortening the chief roots,
whether the plants are growing in a border, or in
small brick-work divisions. Iu the latter they
invariably stray beyond the walls, aud when this
happens, it is easy to shorten them back to the
walls with a spade aud knife. Lime plays au im-
portant part in the successful culture of Figs, aud it
should be freely afforded on the surface, preferably
that gathered from old and demolished buildiugs,
or old ceiling and other plaster. Wheu this cannot
be obtained, slaked lime iu smaller quantities may
be put on frequently, and washed iu with clear tepid
water. Together with the lime, new turfy loam may
be added as a top-dressing, first removing some of the
old surface-soil. In pruning, allow sufficient space for
full leaf-development, and cutting away as much
of the old and bare wood as possible, and providing
for an evenly furnished tree from the ground-level
upwards. Trees about to be started should be
afforded a moderate application of tepid water if
the soil be dry. Those that are iu active growth
must have careful attention iu this matter, or the
swelling fruits will assume a yellow tinge, aud
eventually fall oil'.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strignell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Early Fin* in Pots afford the earliest crops of
fruit, and where uo house cau be set apart expressly
for their cultivation, the early viuery or Peach-
house will be found convenient places during the
early stages. Those trees that were brought iu
some time since will have burst into leaf, and it will

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C, Herrin, Gardener, Dropinore, Maidenhead.

Feeding Land under Fruit Trees in Winter. —
Trees of Apples and Pears, or, in fact, any kind
of fruit-tree of which the growth, from poorness of
the soil or from heavy cropping, is not satisfactory
may be assisted by manure at this season. Iu
many instances, sewage-tanks, catch -pits, and other
receptacles adjoining dung-yards, stables, etc., in
which the draiuage from cow-sheds and stables is
collected, often become full, and overflow at this
season ; where such is the case, fruit-trees in the
state described may usually be found to which
mauure-water can be afforded advantageously.
Care should be taken that the liquid is diluted
rather than strong when using it on the laud,
although the latter will absorb moderately stroug
manure-water without injuring the trees. Pear-
trees, from the nature of their foliage, have a teu-
dency to shoot off the rain beyond tho reach of
many of the roots, and, no doubt, some trees are
yet in a dry state that received no water in the
summer ; for although mauy wet days have
occurred, the rainfall to the end of December was
very slight, and about 0 iuches below the average iu
our southern counties. This state of the soil was very
recently noted wheu moving a few pyramidal Pear
trees, where the ground was firmly trodden down,
for lower thau 12 inches from the surface the soil
was quite dry ; and the soil underastaudard Apple
tree blown down in the recent gale (12th inst.)
was iu a similar condition. I can therefore recom-
mend applications of water even at the present
time, aud manure- water may also be advan-
tageously applied, especially where the soil is
naturally light. Old fruit-trees usually need most
assistance in the way of manuring. Where the

.Iani'ary 21, 1S9W1

THE GAR DENE Jl S' CHRONICLE.

89

^oil is known to be in an exhausted condition,
the present is a suitable time for renewing or top-
dressing the same with. new soil and rich manure.
In doing this, first remove the surface-soil for a few
inches in depth, not injuring or destroying any
roots. Bone-meal and wood-ashes, mixed together
in equal quantities, are found beneficial, and they
should be applied in- sufficient quantity to just
cover the surface, and afterwards be lightly pointed
in. If new loam be available, it may be added in
quantity to the staple, and be covered with a mulch
of half-rotten manure.

Pruning and Manuring Saspbt rry-canes. — Where

the young canes were not thinned to the required
number in the autumn, the thinning should be
carried out forthwith; and the old fruiting-caoes of
last season cleared away and burned. If the canes
are trained to 'wires stretched horizontally, the
space apart at which they are planted must regnlaoe
the number of canes reserved for this season's
fruiting ; in any case, a too close training should
be avoided, and ample space afforded for summer-
fruiting growths. Four or rive canes will inmost
instances be quite enough, and this number should
suffice where a single stake is given each stool.
In either case, the young canes should be topped
at a height of from 4 to ."> feet, and be secured with
tarred string or withes to the wires or stakes.
Raspberries grown for autumn fruiting should be
cut down nearly to the ground. As Raspberries
produce numbers of fibrous roots near the surface,
digging of the laud should not be practised ; but
after clearing away weeds and rubbish, the ground
should be slightly stirred with a fork, and a top-
dressing of short-manure afforded, from 12 to hS
inches on either side of the rows. Wood-ashes
may also be strewn on the laud before laying on
the manure. When the rows are from 4 feet to
5 feet apart, the central space, for the width of
2 or 3 feet, may be forked over deep enough to
cover in weeds or rubbish, aud a dressing of
manure, especially if a row or two of some vege
table, as early .Savoy Cabbages or Lettuces, be
grown between, which may be done when planted
at this width without any injury to the eanes.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. M u:kham, Qardener to the Bail of St&atford,
Wrothain Park, Barnet.

( 'auliflowers. — I prefer the old method of raising
the earliest crop of this vegetable from a sowing
made in the open air in the month of September,
transplanting the seedlings under handlights or iu
cold frames, and for this sowing I have found no
bitter variety than the Walcheren. Afford the
plants iu handlights aud frames all the air possible
by the removal of the tops and lights, aud Only
cover them when frost is likely to occur. Keep
the surface fresh by stirring the soil, aud endeavour
to get sturdy growth in the plants. If tins old-
fashioned practice has made way for winter sowing,
a pinch of seed of the Early Erfurt type, and two
other trusty varieties to form a succession, should
now lie sown, sowing in pans or well-drained shallow
wooden boxes tilled with sandy loam and leaf-mould.
Sow the seed thinly, and place in a temperature of
5.3°, and when the young plants appear, stand the
seed-pans in a rather dry atmosphere in preference
to a humid one, much humidity causing the plants
to damp off; and keep the soil rather on tie- dry
side. Wheu the seedlings have got two leaves
each, prick them off 2 inches apart, either iu
small pots or shallow boxes, aud grow them
on as sturdily as possible, the aim with spring-
sown plants being to keep them from getting
checked, as if once this happens, they fail to pro-
duce tine beads. The ground on which to grow
these Cauliflowers should be thoroughly prepared
by digging it two spits deep, aud using plenty of
rich manure.

Seeds. — Let the remains of last year's seeds be
tested for their germinating qualities previously to
ordering the present season's seeds. To test any of
them let a certain number of each variety be placed
in small pots and stand these in moderate heat,
and those which take a long period to germinate,
or which come up irregularly, should be put aside, as
they cannot be depended upon for sowing outside.
Every gardener should try a few novelties each
year in small quantities", and such as are found to
be superior to old varieties should be grown iu
quantity the next year.

Watererem. — Wherever there is a stream of clear
water Watercress may be grown, there being a

general demand for this plant as a salad. It can
be grown on the north side of a wall, or in a special
damp part of the kitchen-garden, and even in pots
stood iu pans, which are stood in shallow saucers
of water. Permanent bids should be now cleared
of weeds and rubbish, being planted anew every
second year, which job may be done at almost any
time after this date. Take up the quantity
required to bo replanted, then clear outall the rest,
weeds and rubbish, out, aud replant, laying pieces
of stone on the plants to keep them where required,

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R., Fielder, Gardener i< t he Dowager Lady Howard
de Waldkn, sit. James's House, Malvern.

Whtti r -flowering Begonias. — The earlier-flower-
ing section of Begonias, which includes Gloire de
Lorraine, John Heal, &c. , are now out of flower,
and the plants should be cut back to within a few-
inches of the soil, if that has not already been doue,
at the same time reducing the supply of water until
signs of fresh growth are apparent. When they
have made sufficient growth, the cuttings should be
taken, inserted in sandy soil, and placed in the
propagating-frame, or under a bell-glass in the
stove.

Begonia aocolrana is now at its best. This beau-
tiful species is one of the parents of most, if not of
all, the hybrid winter-flowering Begonias. It is not
easy to induce it to Hower before Christmas, but
from the new year onwards it is a most valuable
plant, and reigns supreme among Begonias for
late-winter-flowering purposes, producing strong
trusses of bright pink flowers, which remain a long
time in perfection. It is a native of Socotra, as its
name implies, and therefore enjoys plenty of heat
and moisture ; ami while growing should be givi n
a light position in the stove, or other house, where
the night temperature rauges from 00° to 65°.
When ill bloom, the plants may be placed in an
intermediate temperature if required.

Begonia corallina is of but little use when grown
as a pot-plant, but planted out in a warm-house,
and trained to a pillar, or. preferably, to a trellis
on thereof, it becomes a most striking object. It
Dowers the whole year through when well grown ;
but when it is required to be at its best during the
winter months, it is a good plan to cut off all its
flower t Hisses early in June, shortening the growths
somewhat at the same tunc, aud affording more
air and less water. Thus treated, the plants take
short rest, and then break into fresh growth, and
commence to flower at the end of October, thu
huge trusses of bright coral-red Mowers hanging
from tin- trellis in the greatest profusion. When
planted out in this way, it should be afforded plenty
of root room, and good drainage; and when the
roots have taken possession of the soil, the plants
should be given manure- water at frequent intervals,
to compensate for the loss entailed by the produc-
tion of such great quantities of bloom. The cut
blooms are very useful for dinner-table designs upon
the cloth, but the trusses are too large and loose for
ordinary decorative purposes, its chief use being for
the furnishing of pillars and roof-trellis, as described
above.

Dipladenia bolivienstn. — This white Dipladenia
flowers very freely in o-inch pots, when propagated
annually by means of cuttings. The best results
are obtained when tic cuttings are inserted in the
autumn, but cuttings taken at the present time,
and placed in thumb-pots filled with peat, loam,
aud plenty of sand, and plunged in the propagating
pit. will soon strike, and if when they are suffi-
ciently rooted, they are potted into 4J-inch or
5-inch pots, and grown on in the stove, they will
Hower at the end of tin summer or early in the
autumn.

Allamanda iwbilin and .1. Wttlia/rnsii, — Plants of

the former which have I n rested aud cut back to

within 12 or 15 inches of the old wood, may now be
introduced into heat if they are required for early
flowering, and if they can lie afforded bottom-heat
by being pluuged in a hot -bed in the Melon-house
or pot- vinery, the breaking will be greatly facili-
tated. When the plants have made a few inches
of new growth they may be repotted, reducing the
ball and returning them to the same sized pots in
the case of large plants. Tile smaller-flowered
Allamanda Williamsii flowers freely in small pots,
and a plant or two of that variety may be cut back
and introduced into heat to provide cuttings, aud
if t hese are taken off with a heel when 3 or 4 inches

long and inserted in thumb-pots rilled with sandy-
soil, and plunged in a hot-bed, or propagating-
frame, they will take root freely. They should be
stopped once or twice, in order to produce bushy
plants, and be afforded several repottings, the final
shift being into a 5-inch or 6-inch pot, in which they
will flower freely at the end of the summer. An
open porous compost should be used, such as three-
parts good loam, one part leaf-soil not too rotten,
and half a part each of silver-sand and crushed
charcoal, to which may be added a sprinkle of
bone-meal.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.
The Apiary in tin Winter. — I believe the question
of shelter in outdoor wintering is of more importance
than is generally believed. Though it is true that in
some instances colonies have been known to winter
safely when exposed to the fierceness of the winds,
these exceptions instead of weakening the rule, can
ouly strengthen it, for it will always be found that
the circumstances otherwise were most favourable
where the results were so unexpectedly good. In
a natural state, the bees which resort to hollow
trees can hardly be used as a safe criterion, for we
' have no means of knowing how many or how few such
colonies winter safely iu this climate ; but even if
it could be proven that they generally succeed, the
fact that their abode is usually at only a short disti one
from the ground, and in thick timber, where the force
of the wind is lightly felt, and the additional fact,
that the body of the trunk whiah they inhabit is
very thick — much thicker than our improved hives
— would still indicate that some shelter is advisable.
The straw-hives formerly used by the old apiarists
of Europe were certainly very good abodes as far
as winter protection was considered, for they were
very thick, and the material used is one of the
best non-conductors of heat or cold. But it is out
of the question to make such hives to-day, or at
least to put then, iu use in a practical way, so we
must see what we can do with the ordinary
movable frame-hives. Double-wall hives are very
good for winter, especially where they have a dead-
air space between the two walls. They are exposed
to two weighty objections. The first is, that iu
the warm days, or in early spring, they are not
readily and quickly warmed by the first rays of
sunshine, aud the bees in them will be less readilj
induced to take a flight. The other defect is,
as to their cost. Few bee - keepers will adopt
them because of the expense involved iu the
purchase of such hives. This objection should
have no weight with a practical man, who will
readily figure that the first cost, of a hive is a trifle
when he considers the time of its usefulness, which
may be reckoned, if the hive is well made and well
painted, not less than thirty years. But, since most
of our apiarists have only single-walled hives, it is
useless to spend much time in the consideration of
anything else. A bee-house, if properly made,
built as a shed, with a roof, and three sides closed for
winter, would be an ideal wintering place, espe-
cially if the front could also be closed during
stormy days, and the hives more or less packed in
straw, leaves, &c. But a bee-house for a large
apiary is almost out of the question, aud it is only
in small apiaries, or in cities, that they arc
used. A tight board-fence is a good shelter, as
far as it goes, especially if on the north side of
the apiary. A movable outer covering, made so
as to fit over the hive, and arranged so that it
may be taken to pieces and piled away for summer,
is very good. It may be made of rough boards, or
of thin lumber, to be more easily handled when
removed. But it must be so arranged as to permit
of the bees' flight during warm days, as said before.
It would be a big error to place the bees in any
repository, or to cover them with any shelter which
prevents their flight, unless the temperature of
such repository were kept evenly at the point which
would euable them to remain inactive with the
smallest possible consumption of stores. That is
why the placing of bees iu garrets, or enclosed
slieils. where they are certainly warmer than oui
of-doors, but when' the temperature nevertheless
falls much below the freezing point, or rises, in
warm days, so as to make them restless, has always
been an entire failure.

i

Chrysanthemums. -M. Couillard estimates
the number of known varieties of Chrysanthemum
at more than S8Q0.

41)

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 21, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and selert
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of rcnmrkable plants, flowers, trees, rfc. ; bnt
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

TUESDAY,

J AX,

«{'

f Roy. Scot. Arboiicultural Society's
Annual Meeting.

WEDNESDAY, Jan. 25{H™^shir6 Gar''' In'P' S°'''

THURSDAY, Jan. 26— Manchester Hrat Imp. Soc. meet.

MONDAY,
TUESDAY,

SALES.

( Roses, Hardy Border Plants, Car-
Jan. 23 -J nations, &c., at Protheroe &

I Morris' Rooms.

/ PtBonies, Spiraeas, Hardy Peren-
Jan. 24- nials, fee.', at Protheroe & Morris'

WEDNESDAY, Ja

( Great Sale of Japanese Lilies, and
nr I Palm Seeds, Roses,_ Continental

X'.l

FRIDAY,

Jan. 2

Plants, &c, at Protheroe
Morris' Rooms.

. I Imported and Established Orchid
\ at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

Average Temperature tor the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 38'3'.
Actual Temperatures : —

London.— January 18 (6 p.m.): Max., 53°; Min., 38'.
Provinces.— January 18 (6 p.m.): Max., .03°, Southern
Counties ; Min., 35°, Sumburgh Head.
Mild, stormy, wet.

The Gardeners' Wb do not think we can more
Royal Benevo. appropriately prelude, a note on
lent Institution. the a Gardeners' Benevolent,"
the annual meeting of which Society is being
held as these pages are passing through the
press, than by presenting our readers with a
portrait of the Hon. Treasurer. Mr. Harry
Veitch is well known throughout the horticul-
tural world, and we may venture to say that no
one is more popular among the fraternity than
he ; and more, that no one can show more
substantial reasons for his popularity. A keen
man of business, he is also ever eager in the
promotion of the higher aims of horticulture.
As a philanthropist, he is always to be counted
on when help is needed. May it be very long
ere we have to write his biography ! Enough
now if we allude to his connection with that
admirable Institution, to which he has been
so munificent, a supporter, and to which he
has devoted so much of his energy and time.

The following figures bear witness to his zeal
in promoting its welfare, to say nothing of the
institution of the Victorian Era Fund which
largely does away with the objections that havw
heeti raised as to the occasional want of Buoc'ess
of candidates, whose friends are less numerous
or influential th;m those who exercise their
privilege in favour of the more fortunate
claimants. Every approved candidate is now
sure of his election sooner or later, and the Vic-
torian Fund provides those who have subscribed
to the society, when they were able to do so, with
some amount of relief until such time as they
can be elected to the full advantages of the
Institution. Here'are the figures to which we
allude, to them we need only add the record
that Mr. Veitch became Treasurer in 1886.

Description.

1885.

1805.

1898.

Annual subscriptions

investments..

Pensions

£
1,200

21,100

1,055

£
1,840

26,205

2,668

£
1,4(16

27,008

2.S92

At the beginning of last year, 1898, there
were no fewer than one hundred and sixty-
eight pensioners on the list, ninety-three of
whom were men, seventy-five widows. This

involves an annual liability of three thousand
and sixty pounds.

Sixteen pensioners, we are informed, died
during the year, five of the widows being, in
consequence, jjlaced on the pension-list for life.

Good service has been done during the year
by those who were instrumental in organising
flower-shows and other means for promoting
the interests of the Society, and specially by
the branches or auxiliary societies. The Society
must needs have its offices in London, but in all
large provincial centres or horticultural districts
there should be branches to secure a wider
knowledge of, and a more general support for
the Society than the metropolitan district alone
could furnish. This is important to dispel the

sivelyamong those candidates who were formerly
subscribers to the Institution, and who are now
awaiting election. The capital of this fund is
now over four thousand pounds, so that a sum
of nine hundred and twenty-five pounds is
required to bring it up to five thousand pounds.
A considerable portion of this amount has
already been furnished, and the following
gentlemen have each promised an additional
fifty pounds, conditionally on the entire amount
needed being obtained, viz., Messrs. N. Sher-
wood, Arthur W. Sutton, Leonard Sutton,
and Harry J. Veitch.

There can be little doubt that the full sum
required, five thousand pounds, will be shortly
obtained.

harry j. veitch, Esq,
Treasurer of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution.)

objection sometimes raised that the metro-
politan members have greater privileges than
others. A glance at the list of pensioners and
their place of residence is sufficient to show
how utterly unfounded this is, but a still better
means of destroying this mischievous impression
is afforded by the establishment of auxiliary
branches like those at Worcester or Exeter.

We believe that an additional seventeen pen-
sioners will be elected on the present occasion,
five by virtue of their previous subscription,
twelve by the votes of the members. The total
number of pensioners will thus be raised to
one hundred and seventy-four.

The Victorian Era Fund, to which we have
already called attention, came into operation for
the first time in 1898, when one hundred and
six pounds ten shillings were distributed exclu-

Such in general terms is a record of the year's
working, and we think it will be satisfactory to
the subscribers, as showing that the Committee
and officers do their utmost to promote the
objects for which the Society was instituted,
and effect their object at a minimum cost.

While there remains each year a residuum of
unsuccessful candidates, we cannot say that we
are all of us doing our duty to the full, we there-
fore earnestly press upon gardeners the necessity
of affording a greater measure of support to
the Society. The number of subscribing gar-
deners is still disproportionately small, the new
subscribers hardly do more than replace those
who have died within the year. We cannot,
and do not, believe, but that there are very
many whose means would allow them to sub-
scribe for the benefit of their fellows, and for

January 21, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

41

their own possible advantage. Looked at from
this latter point of view, we do not believe a
better investment could be found ; considered
from the former point of view, there is no more
imperative duty than that of affording help to
those who need it.

Penge Recreation-Ground. — One of the
prettiest groups of succulent plants that we have
seeu during the last season, was that of which Mr.
Gregory, of Croydon, has furnished us with an
illustration (tig. 13). Theplantsareplaced on irregular
raised mounds, and are not only highly decorative

Alarge numberof Echeverias, Gasterias, Haworthias,
Semvervivunis, Yuccas of sorts, and other succu-
lent plants is also used ; and for ground-work, Saxi-
f ragas of sorts, Sedums, Herniaria glabra, Spergula
pilifera aurea, Antenuaria tomentosa, Ajuga reptans
purpurea. Carpet-bedding is always well done, and
the beds of Fuchsia, Abutilous, and other plants
were all equally good, so that the couditiou of the
grounds reflect great credit on the skill of Mr.
Dray. Mr. Dray has lately been promoted to the
charge of the recreation-grounds at Sydenham.

Royal Scottish Arboricultural Society.
— The forty-sixth annual general meeting of the

Hybridisation Conference. — The Royal

Horticultural Society has issued a provisional
programme of an International Conference, to be
held on Tuesday, July 11, at Chiswick, and
Wednesday, July 12, at the office of the Society,
117, Victoria Street, on " Hybridisation (the cross-
breeding of species), and on the Cross-breeding of
varieties. "

The Committee of Arrangement comprises the
following gentlemen : F. W. Burbidge, M. A. . V.M.H.,
Sir W. T. Thiselton-Dyer, K.C.M.G., F.R.S.,
James Douglas, F.R.H.S., G. H. Engleheart, M.A.,
G. Henslow, M.A., V.M.H., Maxwell T. Masters,
M.D., F.R.S., T. J. Bennett - Poo, F.R.HS,,

tAROCMRON

Z.vJSuCr*.

Fig. 13. —A BED OS SUCCULENTS in THE RECREATION-GROUND, PENGE, LONDON, S.E.

but very instructive as conveying an idea of succu-
lent vegetation, and of the character they impart
to the scenery. Mr. Dray, who had charge of
these grounds, deserves much credit for his
originality. The plauts employed comprise the
following :-

Agave Victoria Reglna,

other kinds
Cereus fastuusus

,, peruvianus

,, ,, giganteus

,, uiiica

,, variabilis
Opuntia missouriensis

,, Filipendula

,, mamilluta

„ tomentosa

,, leucotricha

,, grandis

,, polyacantha

,, decumuna

and Opuntia albicans, an I

others
Euphorbia cereiformis

,, pentagons
Aloe picta

,, distans

,, ferox

„ prolifera

,, barbadensis

,. pentagona, aud
others
Dasylirion Wheeleri
Bonapartea juneea
Maniillarias, a few
Echioocereus, a few

Royal Scottish Arboricultural Society will be held
in the Hall of the Youug Men's Christian Asso-
ciation, 14, St. Andrew Street, Edinburgh, on
Tuesday, January 21, IS!!!), at 2 p.m., Colonel
Bailey, President, in the chair. The financial
statement shows a balance in favour of the Society
of £124 b'i. 9rf. At the close of the business, Colonel
Bailey will give a short account of his recent visit
to Canada, illustrated by lime-light views. Mr.
Robert Galloway, 5, St. Andrew Square, is the
Secretary.

The Annual Dinner. — The annual dinner of
the Society will be held in the Royal British
Hotel, 22, Princes Street, Edinburgh, on Tuesday
evening, January 24, at l*> o'clock, the Right Hon.
the Earl of Mansfield in the chair.

Charles E. Shea, F.R.H.S., Harry J. Veitch, F.L.S.,
William Wilks, M.A., Sec. R.H.S.

Plant-Growers, whether amateurs or nursery-
men, are particularly requested to exhibit hybrid
or cross-bred plants (whether in bloom or not), with
the species from which they were raised, at the
meeting of the Conference at Chiswick, on Tuesday.
July 11. All plants should arrive at the Society's
Gardens at Chiswick at or before 11.30 a.m., and
may be removed at 5 p.m.

The ordinary Committees of the Society will
meet at Chiswick ou Tuesday, July 11. at 12
punctually, aud plauts, &c. , for Certificate, will
be placed before them as at the usual meetings
in the Drill Hall, but with the exception of
Plants, &c, for Certificate and hybrids and their

42

THE (,'A-BDE NEBS' ■f'H/.'oX/ €B&

[January 21, 1899.

parents no other plants, &c, may be exhibited

on this day.

MEETINGS.
[Twnday, Jvly 11, at Chiswick.)

12 noon. Fruit, Floral, and Orchid Committees
meet.

12.45. The President of the Society„Sir Trevor

Lawrence, Bart., will receive the
Invited Members of the Conference.

1 p.m. Luncheon.

2.15 p.m. Conference on Hybridisation and Cross-
breeding.

5 p.m. < 'onference will adjourn.

6.0 for 6.30 p.m. The foreign niembers of tire Con-
ference will be entertained at dinner
on the kind invitation of the Horti-
cultural Club, under the presidency of
Sir John T. D. Llewelyn, Bart., M.P.,
at the Hotel Windsor, Victoria Street.
Morning dress.

Wednesday, July 12, in the Lindley Library
(117, Victoria Strut, S.W.).

2.15 p.m. Conference continued.

5.0 p.m. Conference concludes.

6.30 for 7 p.m. Banquet of the Society at the
Whitehall Rooms, Hotel Metropole.
Evening Dress. All Fellows can, as
far as space will permit, obtain
tickets (price 21*. each), for ladies or
gentlemen, by applying (with Cheque
or Postal Order) to the Secretary, 117,
Victoria Street, before July 1.

THE CONFERENCE.

The following arrangements are provisional, and
subject to alteration : —

Tuesday, July 11, at Chiswick, tit 2.1.3 p.m.

1, Introductory observations (Dr. Maxwell
Masters, F.R.S., London, Chairman) ; 2, Hybridisa-
tion and cross-breeding as a method of scientific
investigation (W. Bateson, Esq., M.A., F. R.S.,
Cambridge) ; 3, Hybridisation — its successes, its
failures* (The Rev. Professor Geo. Henslow, M.A.,
V.M.H., London); 4, The stability of hybrids
(Professor Hugo de Vries, Amsterdam) : 5, Progress
of hybridisation in the United States of America
(Professor L. H. Bailey, Cornell University,
Ithaca, U.S.A.).

Wednesday, July 12, at 117, Victoria Street,
Westminster, at 2.15 p.m.

1, Introductory observations (Dr. YV. O. Focke,
Bremen, Chairman) ; 2, The structure of certain
new hybrids (Passirlora, Albuca, Ribes, Begonia,
&c. ) ; with lantern demonstration (Professor J. H.
Wilson, M.D., F.R.S.E., St. Andrew's, N.B.) ; 3,
Hybrid and cross-bred Orchids (Norman Cooksou,
Esq., F.R.H.S., Wylam-on-Tyne) ; 4, Hybrid and
cross-bred garden plants (M. Lemoiue, F.R.H.S.,
Nancy) ; 5, Cross-bred bulbous plants (Heer S. A.
De Graaff, F.R.H.S., Leyden) ; 6, Cross-bred
Caladiums (M. Bleu, F.R.H.S., Paris); 7, Hybrid
and cross-bred fruits (Luther Burbank, San Rosa,
California, U.S.A. ; T. Francis Rivers, Esi|., V.M.H.,
Sawbridgeworth) ; S, Cross-bred vegetables (M.
Henry L. de Vilmorin, F.R.H.S.. Verrieres) ; 9,
Hybrid or cross-bred Irises, Begonias, Chrysanthe-
mums, Cinerarias, Rhododendrons, Clematis,
Fuchsias, Violas, Gladiolus, &c. (Dr. Michael Foster,
Sec. R.S. ; M. Crozy, Messrs. J. Laiug, V.M.H. :
Chas. E. Shea, W. J. James, F. G. Waterer,
Harry J. Veitch, A. G. Jackman, R. Lye, G. Yeld,
J. Heal, V.M.H. ; V. Lemoine, and Dr. Stuart
have been invited to supply short papers on these
subjects.

The selection of the Papers to be read at the
Meetings and their order must be determined at the
time, and will be left to the discretion of the Chair-
man and Committee ; but all the Papers will be
printed in full in the Society's official report of the
Conference.

Those gentlemen who are unable to attend

* Professor Henslow will be most grateful to anyone who
will send him full detailed particulars of attempted hybridisa-
tions iqhioh haw foiled.— Address, th« Rev. Professor i.h...
Henslow, 80, Holland Park, W.

the Conference in person are requested to furnish
brief abstracts of their communications, to be read
at one or other of the Meetings. ■

All MSS. in a foreign language should be sent to
the Secretary (with a short abstract) at least ten
days before the Conference, that they may bo
translated in readiness.

In order that accurate results may be arrived at,
and to facilitate comparisons and deductions, a
card will be supplied to all exhibitors on applica-
tion,-which it is requested may be-carefully rilled
up with all the necessary details. When either the
• seed or pollen parents, or both, are themselves
cross-bred, it is- particularly requested that the
pedigree may be given through as many generations
of ancestors as possible. Exhibitors are most
earnestly requested to apply for their cards before-
hand, and to 611 them up accurately and legibly, as
the utility of the Conference will- greatly depend
on their so doing. Each separate plant should be
entered on a separate card, so as to avoid confusion
— only one plant on one card.

Raisers who will be kind enough to send plants
or cuttings of, hybrids to be grown at Chiswick in
readiness for the Conference, will receive the best
thanks of the Council, aud of all interested in the
matter.

The Surveyors' Institution. — The next
Ordinary General Meeting will be held on Monday,
January 23, 1899, when a Paper will be read by
Mr. Edward Boyle, Q.C., on the "Rating of
Collieries." The Chair will be taken at 8 o'Clock.
The attention of the members is specially called to
the fact that the rooms of the Institution are open
daily, and are available for reference to the library,
for arbitrations, writing, appointments, or other
business purposes. Members who are graduates
of any of the recognised universities of the United
Kingdom are requested to intimate the fact to the
Secretary of the Institution, in order that the same
may be indicated in the next issue of the list of
members. It is particularly requested that the
members who have not already signed the register
will take the opportunity of doing so when they
happen to be at the Institution or in its neighbour-
hood. New members are required by the Bye- Laws
to sign the register at the first Ordinary General
Meeting at which they are present after their
election.

M. VAN TiEGHEM has been elected President of
the Academic des Sciences for the present year.

Jadoo Fibre. -Colonel Halkord Thompson,
chairman of " Jadoo, Limited, " has received from
M. R. de Merona, Chateau de Begoree, Margaux,
France, a letter, from which the following is an
extract : — " I have to-day examined, at Begoree,
old Vines, some completely, others partially, grown
with Jadoo. The Jadoo is full of new rootlets,
leaving no doubt but that the manuring has been
highly successful. In those plants partially treated
with it the result is obvious ; on the one side of the
Vine Jadoo was placed, on the other none was
used. The soil on the Jadoo side is full of root-
lets, and there are not any on the other. I have
removed, and enclose you two or three pieces of
the fibre enclosing rootlets.

SOCIETE FRANCAISE DES CHRYSANTHE-

mistes. — The Congress of the French Chrysanthe-
mum Society will be held in November next at
Lyons.

" RHODORA " is the title of a new journal pub-
lished at Boston, Mass. (740, Exchauge Buildings).
It is to be devoted almost exclusively to the publi-
cation and information of various kinds relating to
the plants of the Svw England States, more espe-
cially to their topographical distribution. Being
intended mainly for local use, we suppose we must
not protest against such names as Rattle-snake
Plantain, which is altogether misleading, aud
surely not easier to write than Goodyera tesselata.
Two plates accompany this number, the one giving
illustrations of three species of Goodyera, the other
of an equal number of species of Lactuca.

Fruit Notes.- Cape Fruit Supplies.— Our

interested readers will remember that the first con-
signment of- Cape fruit for the season last year
arrived here on Feb. 7 ; we learn, on application to
the import manager of the Union Royal Mail
Steamship ( iompany, that the first consignment for
the current season may be expected ou or about the
same date. We siucerely trust that proper care
may 'be taken over the cutting or picking, and
packing' of the fruit intended for the English
market ; in previous seasons there was much reasou
for regretting the lack of proper precautions.

Winter Aconite and Other Flowers.—

Iti response' to' Mr. Mawley's enquiry as to the
date of flowering of this species, we have received
the following particulars : — Rev. Canon Ellacombe,
Bit ton, writes, under date January 14, that he
noticed the first flowers expanding on that day.
Erica herbacea, Cyclamen Coum, Chimonanthus
fragrans, Crocus Imperati were in bloom, and
Azara mierophylla will shortly be in flower. Mr.
R. Lindsay, Murrayfield, Midlothian, gives
January 9 as the date when the Winter Aconite
was in full bloom. The Dowager Viscountess
Hood, Barton, Seagrave, Kettering, states that she
first observed flowers of the Winter Aconite on
January 10. Several other communications ou
this subject will be found ou p. 43.

Transplanting a Cedar.— The Daily Graphic
of the 17th iust. has an illustration showing the
removal of a Cedar at Southsea. The tree is
estimated to be 100 years old. It is 30 feet in
height, and 36 feet in the spread of its branches.
A hole, 18 feet square, aud 7 feet deep, was dug
round the trunk, the actual size of which, with the
roots and a good thickness of mould, was 10 feet
6 iuches by 9 feet 6 inches, and 3 feet 6 inches
deep. After the hole was dug, planking secured
by iron-belting was built round, and a timber
cradle gradually placed underneath. The whole
was then lifted in position for the trolly by five
screw aud two hydraulic- jacks. The total weight
was about 22^ tous, aud it took a traction-engine
to draw the trolly along. The cost of removing will
probably amount to about £100.

Vienna. — Dr. Wettstein, formerly of Prague,
has been appointed Professor of Botany and
Director of the Botauie Gardens in the University
of Vienna.

Leaf-action in Terrestrial Orchids.—

The Comptks Hriiiliix fur December 5, 1898, contains
a note by M. Ed. Griffon' ou experiments made at
the Laboratory of Vegetable Biology at Fontainc-
bleau, under the superintendence of M. G ASTON
Bonnier. The experiments iu question bore refer-
ence to the work done in the chlorophyll in ter-
restrial Orchids, and especially in Limodorum
aboitivum :— " It is known that a certain number
of terrestrial Orchids have short, swollen, coral-
like roots, iu each of the cortical cells of which is
euclosed a small cushion - like mass of fungous
spawn-threads. M. Frank has given to these
peculiar roots, which are found with the same-
characteristics in Ericaceae, and with different
characteristics in Conifers and Cnpulifera-, the
name of ' myeorhizas.' This authority considers
this association of a root and a fungous spawn or
mycelium as an illustration of co-operation or
'symbiosis,1 aud not. of parasitism. According
to him, the fungus receives from its host sub-
stances which it is unable to elaborate, such
as hydrocarbons, sugars, starch, &c. ; and, ou
the other hand, it furnishes it with water and
nitrogenous matter, which it derives from the
humus. Orchids with green foliage, and un-
provided with 'mycorhiza, ' probably derive all
their carbon from the air. These plants arc
entirely self - sufficient, aud have no need of
humus ; Epipactis latifolia, often found in saudy
mud at the sides of roads, comes under this cate-
gory. Other Orchids with green foliage, but pro-
vided with ' myeorhizas,' such as the different species
of the geuus Orchis, are, if M. Frank's theory is

January 21, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

&

correct, partly saprophytes — tbat i« to say, that
they live to a certain extent at the expense of the
humus ; but their green portions, while giving off
a considerable quantity of oxygen when exposed to
light, do not provide the plant with all the carbon
necessary to it. But no experiment has as yet
proved this. M. Griffon wished to see decisively
if some of the plants of this class in which the
saprophytism appears to be doubtful, would not ex-
hibit gaseous changes iu the light of such a nature as
to disclose the part played by the mycorhizas in the
assimilation of carbon. The very curious results
obtained by M. Bonnier iu the Rhiuanthaceaj
induced M. Griffon to experiment iu this direction.
It is, indeed, now known that some green plants,
such as Euphrasia or Pedicularis, do uot emit oxygen
when exposed to light, and are therefore, perforce,
parasites." The author draws the following conclu-
sions : — " 1. As regards the assimilation of carbon,
terrestrial Orchids show all intermediate conditions,
from green species, lacking in mycorhiza, such as
Epipactis, which draw all their carbon from the air,
and colourless species, such as Neottia, Corallor-
hiza, which are wholly saprophytes, and the roots
of which, existing iu symbiosis with fungous
mycelia, are capable of drawing from humus the
matters necessary for nutrition. 2. Limodorum,
in spite of its richness in chlorophyll, must be
reckoned as a saprophyte, because of the imperfect
diffusion of the chloroleucites, and perhaps, also,
the special nature of the green pigment ; this
plant decomposes but little carbonic acid, and its
respiration is always noticeably superior to its
assimilation."

Chambre Syndicale of Ghent. — At the last
meeting on the 8th inst. , a Certificate of Merit for
Epidendrum Endresio-Wallisii was awarded to M.
L. De Smet Ditvivier, and a Cultural Certificate
for Caraguata cardiunlis to M. A. Van Hecke.

"FREAKS." — A short time since we were told
by the daily papers that the "freaks" now exhibit-
ing at Barnim's show held at least two meetings
to protest against the application to tliem
what they consider au objectionable term.
Tim proceedings of those meetings would re-
quire the pen of a Dickens to narrate. Enough
for us, if we be allowed to express our
entire sympathy with these teratological illustra-
tions— we hardly know what English word to
employ which shall convey our meaning without
also being liable to an interpretation that we should
be unwilling to endorse. The fact is, that the appli-
cation of such words as freaks, prodigies, sports,
caprices, monsters, and the like is altogether inap-
propriate. There is nothing freakish or capricious
iu Nature. All is orderly, methodic, adaptive,
responsive to cause, purposeful. It is our imper-
fect perception alone which makes us see breaches
of law when there are none. We are reminded of
these matters by the kindness of the authorities
of the Royal Gardens, Kew, who have obliged us
by forwarding some interesting flowers of Cycla-
men. The leading feature of these flowers is
the development of the sepals into full-sized leaves,
formiug a ring of leaves around the corolla, such as
is often met with in the Chinese Primrose. It is
obvious, from these specimens, that the ordinary
sepals of the Cyclamen represent the petiolar part
of the leaf only, the blade or laminar portion not
being developed. We can easily imagine that
the presence of food-making leaves in the imme-
diate vicinity of the ripening ovules, which
make such heavy requisitions on the food supply,
might be advantageous. If so, the tendency to
leafy development seen in these Cyclamens would
be perpetuated, and in time a new " race " will
be developed. A section of the scape showed not a
c entral ring of vascular tissue, but a pentagonal stele.

Horticultural Club.— The usual monthly

dinner and conversazio.ie took place on Tuesday
last, 17th inst. ; the chair was occupied by Mr.
Harry J. Veitcii, and there were present besides,
the Rev. W. Wilks. the Rev. J. H. Pemberton,
Messrs Charles E. Shea, George Monro, James

H. Veitch, George Bunyard, C. T. Druery, and
others. The discussion was opened by Mr. CHARLES
E. Shea with an interesting paper entitled "A chat
about Chrysanthemums ; " many points of much
value were brought forward, and there seemed to
be an unanimous revolt against the race for size
which now marks the Chrysanthemum. Most of
the members took part in the discussion which fol-
lowed over the paper, and many interesting state-
ments were made. A hearty vote of thanks was
accorded to Mr. Shea. It was announced by the
Secretary that the annual meeting would bo held
on February 14, when the chair will bo taken by
Sir John Llkwklyn, Bt.,M.P. (chairman of the
Club), and ladies would be. specially invited to
attend.

The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent In-
stitution.— The sixtieth annual general meeting
of the subscribers to this Institution was held on
Thursday last at "Simpson's," Strand, Loudon,
H. J. VEITCH, Esq., in the Chair. The report of
the Committee, and the accounts for the year were
adopted with unanimity and satisfaction. This
was followed by the election of officers for 1809,
aud the election by ballot of candidates to become
pensioners on the Fund. There were seventeen
candidates elected, as against nineteen last year.
Upon the recommendation of the Committee, five
of these were unanimously placed upon the Pension
list under Rule III., s. 5, without the trouble or
expense of an elect iou. Their names were as
follows : —

JOHN COLLIN'S, Bockluimpton, Dorchester, aged 80, annual

subscriber <>f .el Is. for 41 years.
CHARLES GOODALL, Cheetham Hill Road, Staleybridge,

aged 64, annual subscriber df £1 Is. for 20 years, also i

lile-lm'iiili'i .
WILLIAM KIDD, New Street, St. Nets, aged 81, annual

subscriber of ti Is. for )7 years.
.n i\ \ THAN BQUIBBS, New Oxtqd, Surrey, aged P7, animal

subscriber of el Is. fur 17 years, also a life-member.
GEOKGE YEARNSLEY, silver Hill, St. Leonard's-on-Sea,

aged os, life member i"i 35 years.

A ballot took place for the remaining twelve, and
below are the names of the successful candidates.
The eight first mentioned have beeu subscribers to
the Institution, and the remaining four were
non-subscribers.

ALFRED BAHNF1EL11.
ANNIE HATCH.
ALEXANDER 1 I I
JAMES I'LEVY.
JOSEPH SHEARN.
GEO. STAPLES.

EMMA WOODWARD.

CAROLINE \\

JOHN AKEHUHST.
IHiis. CAWLEY.
GEO. CRAGG.
SARAH ANN SIMS.

The annual friendly supper is beiug held under
the Chairmanship of G. Monro, Esq., as these
pages are in the press.

Home Correspondence.

EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS IN THE OPEN.— The

readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle should be glad
of the information respecting this tree afforded by
" J. A." on p. 28. If a tree be killed to the ground
by 18° of frost after being planted thirteen years,
each must decide for himself whether it is a tree
worth planting. Certainly it grows very freely
aud makes a fine tree in a few seasons, and then
comes a hard frost and it is killed to the ground. I
have only known E. globulus to flower in the open
air in our maritime counties. A. B. Pearce.

- On p. 19 of a recent issue, you ask
for the present height of the Eucalyptus eoc-
cifera at Powderham Castle, several times figured
in the Gardeners' Chronicle. Iu my notes on
Powderham, published ou October -22, 1898, p. 299,
full reference will be found to this grand specimen
[70 feet iu height], also to the peculiar tnauuer
in which it sheds its bark. Several specimens are
also to be met with at Abbotsbury, Dorsetshire,
but these are far less in size than the Powderham
specimen. W. Swan.

SPIR/EA DISCOLOR (ARI/EFOLIA).— The beauty
of this plant when in flower is well shown in the
illustration, p. -21, ami a sunny situation is recom-
mended in tha accompanying letterpress. I

would advise intending planters to place it in an
airy position, and where it gets shade from the
sun. There are mauy specimens at Belvoir in
various positions, and all lose the whiteness of their
flowers in two or three days after they expand,
except one plant, which grows where the sunshine.
does not reach it, which keeps in good condition
three times as long as the others that grow iu the
sunshine. It is a perfectly hardy plant, and evi-
dently likes moisture, doing well in our cold clay
soil. W. H. Biixr.s, Belvoir Oa-ttle Gardens,
Grantham.

INCREASE OF SHOW EXHIBITS.— Your corres-
pondent "A. J. L. " seems to have a somewhat
extraordinary preference for bulk. Generally thero
has been too much room for complaint, that exhibits,
especially in vegetables, were too large in use, and
now he wants yet more. He has little mercy for
the exhibitor. Take Onions, bulbs of which now
range from 2J to 3 lb. each in weight, a dozen of
these now average over 30 lb. "A. J. L." would
like to make the weight about 50 lb. Potatos,
Carrots, Beetroots, and Cauliflowers, are heavy,
and yet he is for increasing the weight for transit
to and from shows, 50 per cent. And after all,
beyond presenting exhibits in the plan of green-
grocers shops, what would be gained ? Of course,
exhibitions should be made attractive, but mere
quantity does little iu that direction. Far more
attractive is quality, and just as six of any one
thing selected from eighteen, gives the highwater-
mark of excellence ; twelve of the same comes a
few points lower in average excellence, and the
entire eighteen shows a still greater reduction.
Generally, all descriptions of fruits and vegetables
are well represented iu the ordinary dishes or
quantities presented. Fifty pods of Peas, or a
dozen Tom at os, gives just as good a representation
in either case as would quantities doubled. A
collection of a dozen kinds of vegetables as now
ordinarily presented, inclusive of basket and pack-
ing material, presents a formidable weight, and
would, if doubled in bulk, be only compensated for
by double prices. But the public in seeing greater
bulk would gain nothing. If such a proposition
were enforced, it would do much to kill competi
tious, which is already to the ordinary exhibitor
sufficiently exacting or burdensome. A . D.

WINTER ACONITES AND OTHER FLOWERS.—
Observing on p. 2ti of last week's issue a question
concerning the flowering of Winter Aconites, I
write to say that generally after a wet and
warm autumn, such as the last, late winter
bulbs in Edge gardens are very precocious
being often forwarder than they are iu the .south
of England in January, though by March they are
overtaken by the warmer counties. I make casual
but not regular notes on the weather and first
appearance of flowers. The average time at which
Winter Aconites break the surface is New Year's
day, and if there is no hard frost, many are m
flower in a week or ten days. In ISOfi, Jan. 13, I
find an entry, " Crocus Imperati generally out ; also
many Anemone blanda, and some Aconites and
Snowdrops. Thrushes siugiug and wood-pigeons
cooing." In 1897, Jan. 23— " Acouites out before
the New Year, and Snowdrops showing white;
Narcissus minimus out middle of February "
(about its usual date). 1897, Dec. 17 — "a
warm suuuy day, nearly 100 flowers of Crocus
Imperati fully open ; also many Anemone blanda,
also Cyclamen Count. 189S : January 5. — Acouite
abundantly out ; also. Anemone blanda, and
Crocus Imperati, at best. Jauuary 21. — Scarlet
Anemone (hortensis) plentiful, Crocus Imperati
nearly over, Galanthus Imperati fully out ; Nar-
cissus minimus iu flower. 1899. — The same flowers
are nearly a fortnight later than last year. Aconite
broke the ground before New Year's Day, and are
now, on January 16, plentifully out ; also. Ane-
mone blanda, is very forward, and in full flower ;
Crocus Imperati, many in flower. No Scarlet
Anemones yet. Oriental Hellebores very forward.
Some plants in sheltered spots are iu full flower.
Crocus Sieberi out. Thrushes have been as noisy
for ten days as in April. C. Wottey Dod, Edijr
Hull, Malpas.

There are large quantities of this plant

at Belvoir in various places, and no flowers have
as yet appeared ou them — only one tiny speck of
yellow was visible yesterday (January 13). Ou
looking through my old note-books, I note that
January 15, 1S96, aud January 9, 1898, are the
dates when the first flowers appeared in those yea rs :

44

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 21, 1899

but it will be quite as late as the 20tb this year
before I shall be enabled to report the openiDg of
the flowers. I notice several other early flowers
this season are later than usual here, and this late-
ness is not due to cold, as up to the present date
the season has been exceptionally mild : but it may
be attributed to the very dry time we had in Sep-
tember and October. W. H. Divers.

I have seen Winter Aconites in bloom, not

expanded, in a spot shaded from south to west,
in a warm enclosed garden they are only showing ;
last year, one was gathered on January 7. Thou.
Taylor, Beech Holme, Backing, Braintree, Jan. 15,
1899.

My neighbour tells me he had the Aconite

blooming in bis gardeu on the 5th inst. F. T. Taylrr,
Little Baddow Beetory, Chelmsford, January 17,
1899.

Referring to the paragraph in yours of

the 14th inst., the first yellow bud of Winter
Aconite was seen yesterday in my small garden ;
it is on a drier slope than the part they usually
appear first. I have a few Snowdrops in garden,
plenty of tine ones in window-boxes that have been
out a fortnight, some going off. A few Polyanthus
in garden, and red buds of Pyrus japonica showing.
Tilson Lee.

I had been looking for this little flower to

make its appearance in various parts of the grounds
here. I have, to-day, January 18, made a rather
minute survey in the various places which in some
seasons by this time have been sheets of yellow ;
and I have also found some old lists of flowers,
which, in a former employer's day, we used to send
up to London weekly. I find, January 19, 1887,
Aconites, five large bunches ; January 13, 1890,
two large bunches ; but to-day I cannot discover
flower or foliage. Has the dry autumn something
to do with it ? J. Batters, GUlingham, Norfolk.

Although not yet open to-day, January 16,

the Winter Aconite is not later than usual here.
The first flowers began to show above the ground
about New Year's Day. It usually blooms with
me from the last week in January to the second
week of February should the weather prove open.
.S'. Arnott, Carsethorne, by Dumfries, N.B.

MUSHROOMS IN PASTURES.— In answer to
Mr. Kneller's communication on this subject, I
may be allowed to state that having had sixteen
years and more experience in Mushroom growing, I
think I can give him some explanation of the cir-
cumstance. Firstly, if his pasture has had Mush-
rooms growing ou it for 100 years, the spawn will
have become exhausted, and he would do well if he
sprinkled some sharp road-sand over the land.
Secondly, I think that he is mistaken about the
older portion of the park giving the most Mush-
rooms. He will find the piece which has been laid
down teu years will afford magnificent crops for
many years to come, especially if cows are pas-
tured on it, as of course he will know that artificially-
made spawn consists of cow-dung and sand — or it
should be. As regards the meadow which he has
spawned, it is not likely ever to do any good, my
experience teaching me that artificial spawn should
have a little warmth when started, otherwise its
germinating power gets killed. I always break the
cake when spawning a bed. I would persuade him
the next time he lays spawn in the land, to carry
out the operatiou in the hottest part of the summer,
and keep the land well moistened, Mushrooms doing
best in mild, moist weather, such as we are having
this winter I grow Mushrooms indoors and on beds
outside, and have no failures. A. 8. Knight.

GRAPE JUDGING. — It will be a source of satis-
faction to those who take an interest in exhibiting
and judging, to see that the relative value of
exhibits is receiving a degree of attention,
which may ultimately lead to a proper settlement
of the question. 1 notice in your last issue (p. 27)
a few remarks from " A. D.," one of which, to me,
is not very clear. "A. D." says, "The judges
can, even with fixed maximums, vary the points,
both according to appearance and known quality. "
If the various maximums be fixed with scope
sufficient to meet all claims, there would be no need
to change or vary them, a conclusion which
"A. D." seems to support in the last words
of the sentence ; thus : " they (the maximums) also
indicate points beyond which, in making awards,
the j udges cannot go. " I concur with this statement,
but consider that a wider range of opinion is neces-

sary in adjusting these maximum standards than
that of two or three judges before they begin
operations. Any endeavour to fix standards or
formulate a system of judging would be wasted
labour, if they could be varied according to the
taste of the individual. "A. D." also says,
" Maximums indicate relative merit of variety, if
first-rate." There seems to be a slight mixture of
ideas here ; relative merit is generally understood
to mean the qualities of an article naturally inherent,
which should not change ; while cultural merit sig-
nifies the properties imparted by art, which varies
with the skill of the cultivator. The two elements
being distinct, should he kept separate, and a
maximum properly adjusted for both, with sufficient
gradation by which all differences could be recorded.
Mr. Kirk on the same page raised another matter
in connection with judging, and depreciates the
necessity for decorating Grapes, while he ventures
to prophecy that bad things will happen in con-
sequence. I assume there will be no decorations
insisted upon in connection with the forthcoming
Grape competition ; but I expect that the Grapes
will be adjudged entirely on their own merits. If
decoration were to be a strong element in the com-
petitions, I would simply put my best Grapes into
classes where merit would not be divided, and my
next best I would risk being overweighted by
decorations. After expressing various doubts
and difficulties, which probably mean but little,
Mr. Kirk animadverts on dessert table-decora-
tion with an air of disgust. In my opinion,
there is nothing more pretty or attractive— leaving
aside utility — than an artistically and tastefully-
displayed dessert-table. Let such, then, be en-
couraged at shows, but as before said, great care
should be taken in fixing the maximums for culture,
quality, and taste iu the matter of arrangement.
If high-class fruit be the primary object, let the
maximum be high ; if flowers and arrangement are
the principal features desired, then the fruit will
occupy a subordinate place. If I entered a com-
petition, with the issues plainly stated, and only
came out second best, although I looked upon fruit
myself as of major importance, I would simply
" grin and bear ; " or offer a mild protest to the
proper authorities, which would probably not be
entertained. Wheu conditions of adjudication are
laid before the judges, it would be a dereliction of
duty not to adhere to them. Ayrshire Lad.

RELATIVE VALUE OF GRAPES IN COMPETITION.
— As mentioned in my last letter, I now submit for
the consideration of interested readers a scale of
relative value for most of the varieties of Grapes
worth growing at the present time. This value is
calculated aud shown by the decimal system as
being the one best adapted for recording the most
minute shades of difference between the sorts. The
cultural value again is reckoned by units (but not
shown), five being the maximum for a perfect
buuch. This is a fair proportion to strike between
the two elements, and corresponds to the balance
given by the authority quoted in my last letter :—

Twenty-four Varieties of Grapes, Twelve Black and

Twelve White.

White. Black.

Relative value. Relative value.

Muscat of Alexandria., l • Muscat Hamburgh ... ro

Canon Hall Muscat ... 1-01 Mrs. Pinee ro

Bowood Muscat ... 10 Madresfleld Court ... ID

Mrs. Pearson Id Appley Towers 0".i

Duke of Buccleueh ... Oil Black Hamburgh ... o-ii

LadyHutt 0'B Lady Dowries' lis

Buckland Sweetwatei . us Gros Oilman 0'8

Foster's Seedling ... OS Gros Guillaume .. O'S

Golden Queen 0-7 Alicante 07

Tokay 07 Gros Manx- 07

Trebbiano o:. Alnwick Seedling ... OD

Raisin de Calabre .. 0'.ri West St. Peters ... III!

It will be observed the above estimate is not based
on the property of flavour alone, although that
element predominates, but ou all the qualities
which characterise good useful Grapes, and con-
tained in the words quality and appearance.
Since despatching my last, I observe a letter
from "H. W. Ward" (p. 474), in which the rela-
tive value of certaiu varieties is fairly stated,
but which in practice would not work very satis-
factorily, unless the value of the two properties
were placed in separate columns. Otherwise, the
judges would get confused among vulgar fractions
when competition is close, and where the smallest
difference has to be recorded. The relative value of
1 .J points in 6 between Gros Colman and Muscat Ham-
burgh may also appear to some excessive. [Canon Hall
Muscat, being a variety of Muscat of Alexandria,
should not be included in a collection of varieties.]
In framing a graduated scale of value, the most

important factor, namely, the skill of the horti-
culturist, should be carefully guarded, and as there
are slight shades of difference in quality among the
varieties, provision should be made for registering
the smallest degree. Everyone will agree with
your correspondent's remarks regarding the pre-
ference shown to large against smaller bunches,
other poiuts being equal ; but shape should not
weigh in importance, but due regard should be paid
to the natural form of the variety. Ayrshire Lad.

chrysanthemums.— In Mr. Edwards' list of
Chrysanthemums at p. 27, of the last issue of the
Gardeners' Chronicle, he recommends some to be
grown as bushes. Now, I have grown most varieties
as they have been sent out for more than a dozen
years past for the purpose of getting big blooms,
and passing on all that I thought suitable to bo
tried as bushes. Of these we usually grow from
eighty to one hundred plants for cutting from, and
sometimes we pinch them and get nice medium-
sized blooms, and at other times I have allowed
them to grow on to the terminal bud for a mass of
bloom. My favourites now are : —

Whites. Yellows.

Phoebus (old)
,, (new)
Edwin Beckett
W. H. Lincoln

Pride of Ryecroft
Charles Curtis

Avalanche
.Souvenir de P. Ami
Niveum

Madame Lacroix
Mrs. J. .1. Lewis
Lady Canning

Pinks.

Margot

Lady Randolph
Eda Prass
James Bideneope
Pride of Madford
William Tricker

Darks.
John Shrimpton
E. Molyneux

Wm. Holmes

Mathew Hodgson

Milano

Val d'Andorre

I can recommend the above list to all beginners, as
they are free growers and su re constant bloomers.
A. Haggart.

BEGONIA SLOIRE DE LORRAINE.— This plant
is, I understand, so far asexual, that it produces
only male or barren flowers, hence it can be propa-
gated only by division or cuttings. But there
seem to be exceptions to every rule, as I recently
saw on a small plaut at Chiswick a seed-pod of the
ordinary angular form, the product of a female
flower, which had been fertilised with pollen from
the flower of a small white winter-blooming kind.
It will be interesting to learn in time what is the
product. Gloire de Lorraine has such excellent
habit, and is so wonderfully floriferous as a winter
pot-plant, that it is difficult to avoid wishing for
its duplicate as a summer-bedding plant. Certainly
for such purpose stouter and stiffer stems would be
useful, but if the flowers are relative to those of
the tuberous kiuds, small, they are borne in such
great profusion that most beautiful floral objects
are furnished. To obtain such a summer variety
should be the object of raisers. A. D.

CLEANING TOMATO SEED— I have watched
with interest the different articles appearing in
your columns on the best means of getting through
this tedious task, and have long been under the
impression that there must be some more practical
method than those employed by your corres-
pondents and myself. I had exceptional results
from a new variety of outdoor Tomato the last
summer, and I was naturally anxious to save my
own seed. I had but a small idea of the methods
adopted in practice, so I decided to try two dif-
ferent plans. One lot I put through a process
almost identical with that advised by Mr. J. S.
Upex, in an article on p. 28 of your last week's
issue, namely, washing and squeezing through
musliu. As another test I squeezed the pulp
on to sheets of clean glass, and pasted it over
very thinly, so that the seeds barely touched
each other. After they had been near the
roof in a dry house for some days they were sepa-
rated with a pocket-knife ; they were not clean,
though, and I found this plan considerably more
difficult, and more likely to injure the seeds, than
the " washing system." I bad some doubts as to
whether the latter plan would be detrimental to
the quality of the seeds, so decided to test them.
I put equal quantities of each in separate pots, and
grew for twenty-eight days. The result was very
satisfactory ; for the one was identical with the
other. It must not be lost sight of, however, that my
test was made only a few months after the drying
of the seed. Whether that which has undergone
the "washing process " would be reduced in quality
if kept for several seasons I cannot say ; but know-
ing Mr. S. Castle (referred to last week) to be an

JanuarV 21, 1899.]

THE GARDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

40

excellent cultivator, I am convinced that he would
not condemn "washed seed " without having reasons
for doing so. Probably Mr. Castle will see this
and other articles, and kiudly enlighten us. A. F.
Acton, "Man Repos," Dover, Kent.

LAPAGERIA.

The illustration (tig. 14) of a fine spray of this
most useful climbing plant was obligingly furnished
to ua by C. T. Lawrence, Esq. It shows well the
free-flowering character of the plant, and when
grown at Burford Lodge, we may be sure that the
plant is placed under the most favourable circum-
stances.

MARKET GARDENING IN THE
CHANNEL ISLES.

(Continued from p. 80.)

The Caledonian Nursery, Guernsey. ~ At
this establishment there is a notable departure
from the class of goods usually met with at so many
of the other nurseries on this island. The growers
for market devote roomy houses chiefly to the
production of some three or four articles, viz.,
Grapes, Tomatos, Beans, and early Potatos, so that
but little in the way of decorative plants ever
comes in their way, and, indeed, there is no need !
There is a vast difference in growing simply these
things for certain disposal, and the cultivation of
choice plants and sh rubs that are much longer in
coming to a saleable size, and whose disposal is not
so rapidly consummated. The Caledonian Nursery
is a compendium of all that is choice and rare
in the way of outdoor shrubs and trees, and the
lover of novelties may come and be interested
in seeing fiue specimens such as cannot be found in
the open on any part of the mainland except in a
few highly favoured spots in Dorsetshire, Devon-
shire, and Cornwall. Almost as soon as the grounds
are entered we are face to face with a grand
specimen of Erythrina Crus-galli, with branches
8 feet in length, and stem as thick as one's arm.
The singular-looking coral-coloured pea flowers
were numerous, and would be in good condition for
a long period of time. How different to see this
plant in this guise to seeing it treated as an iuter-
mediate-house plant for six months of the year ;
here, it is simply let alone, or just primed hard in.
Close by was a number of Crinum Powelli alba,
raised from seed and plauted in beds. They had
made good growth, and many were in flower.

Entering some of the glass-houses we noticed a
capital lot of middliug-sized Palms grown for house
decoration, and associated with them a quantity of
Ferns for similar purposes. Houses, too, of single
and double flowered Begonias, of Cannas flowering
with remarkable freedom — these both indoors and
out-of-doors ; zouals also in good varieties, aud
nicely grown.

Guernsey Lilies. — Among plants grown under
glass, Messrs. Smith are famous for their Nerines—
Guernsey Lilies. My visit was made too early
for me to see them in flower, the majority being
still dormant. Doubtless the display made by these
bulbs will be of marvellous beauty. A thousand
pots of Nerines ! it seems incredible ; yet there
they are, and additions are constantly being made
to the stock of them, lireat care is exercised in
regard to the shifting or potting of these plants ;
this operation is performed as seldom as possible.
Pots of, say, 5, 6, or S inches are used for the bulbs,
according to the mass to be potted, and when the
pots are filled with roots, and the bulbs crowded
well upon the top, during the flowering and grow-
ing time, then the application of some kind of
manure answers admirably ; while during the long
resting period no such assistance is required. Such
species and varieties as N. Fothergilli major, Man-
selli, angustifolia, Planti, &c, are under culti-
vation ; and besides these there are hosts of seed-
lings, many of which have already flowered, and
proved to be beautiful, and worthy of further culti-
vation. The stock of these, however, is yet too
limited to allow any of them to be disposed of at

present. Among other Nerines, coruseans major
has been crossed with N. flexuosa, and N. filifolia
with N. coruseans major ; in fact, so Dumerous are
the varieties represented, that they need to be
studied in a very full and careful manner. Passing
outside, we came to grand masses of Bignonia
radicans, then densely covered with its tubular
orange-scarlet flowers, whose outer calyx has the
look and texture of leather. A plant of Mande-
villa suaveolens covers a large area of wall, and it
is perfectly hardy. Plants of Clianthus magoificus
are also very strong : the flower is somewhat lighter
in colour than the old C. puniceus.

Dracaena*. — Then some Dracamas, which must
at one time have been trees, so large were the
boles, 4 to 5 feet in girth at 1 foot up from the
ground. These boles had been cut down during
the severe winter three years ago, and clusters of
young shoots 10 feet high have sprung up from

A

Flii. 14.— LAPAGERIA ROSEA, [H THE GARPEN' I1K
SIR TREVOR LAWRENCE.

(From a photograph by C. T. Lawrence, F.*i )

them, so that clumps of eight to a dozen stems now
take the place of a single stem. But what models
these side-shoots were ! stout, with broad leaves,
the colour of which was a deep purplish-green.
How grand these would look in pots ! and a
hundred of them exhibited at the Temple, either
in groups or single specimens. A display might be
made by such means at many an exhibition that
would, I am sure, be highly appreciated, and add
much to the scenic effect. Edwardsia microphylla
is represented by a large plant fastened to a wall ;
this particular specimen seldom flowers, although
not far away another one does so regularly.

Belladonna Lilies. — Aud fhen we came to these ;
and what a display they made ! one can scarcely
imagine what such beds of these bulbs would look
like— but here they were, and the sight was a
glorious one. A most beautiful variety, Amaryllis
Belladonna purpur-iseens maximus, as its name
implies, has large flowers of an intensely dark
colour.

The Bamboos.— I would say of these that the*
species are so numerous, the health so perfect, the
dimensions of many as regards height and size so
great, that one need have a measuring-rod always
in hand, and spend an entire day among them.
Arundinaria nobilis is worthy of special mention,
as well as Bambusa palmata ; Aruudinaria Fal-
coneri, A. erecta Hindsii, Phyllostachys castillionis,
and Bambusa flexuosa, a close grower, of which a
plant was noted 6 feet in height. Associated with
these were some twenty species and varieties, and
the stock of them is being very assiduously in-
creased ; in fact, these Bamboos are treated simi-
larly to Conifers in other nurseries, and beds and
whole quarters are devoted to their cultivation,
constant propagation, replanting, &c, and then wide
dispersion all over the country. And then, when
planted and established, how different is the effect,
and how beautiful ! Bamboos are now in the front
rank as decorative plants, and where they will
stand the winter they will be planted more com-
monly. A large Macartney Rose was covered with
its single white flowers, looking interesting among
so many novelties. Overhead the new Vitis
Coigneti» had run up to a great height among some
trees, its leaves were still quite green.

Shrubs and Trees.— To visit the different parts of
the nursery, and note the host of choice plants and
shrubs, was no mean task ; and it must suffice if I
touch upon a few ouly — A cacia asparagoides, a very
line specimen, was full of flower-buds that will
open in the spring ; Lomatia pinnatifida is a
beautiful shrub, whose Davallia-like leaves impart
to it a singular beauty ; Dimorphanthus manchuri-
cus and Weigela hortensis nivea come next into
view, and then fine specimens of Magnolia stellata,
whose flowers in early spring are so much admired ;
Magnolia Lenne, a very large tree, one of the
deciduous forms, whose Tulip-like flowers are of a
bright purple colour outside ; M. Halliana, M.
grandiflora, &c. Danea racemosa, the Alexandrine
Laurel that has stood out for many years ; Poinciana
• Jilliesii in capital form, and of much vigour. The
Olearias, nitida, dentata, and macrodonta, are
grown close together for the sake of comparison,
aud 0. argyrophylla is also near by, its beautiful
leaves silvery beneath, mark this as a very distinct-
looking species. Plants of Embothrium coccineum
were constantly passed, being trees, some of them
18 to 20 feet high. Pyrus Malus rloribunda
Scheideckeri was interesting, aud the same may be
said of Gymnocladus canadensis. Hedges and
beds of Azalia indica alba, here called A. Ledifolia,
divide many of the quarters in this portion, and in
their season are a mass of flower. Of the green-
house hybrid and Himalayan Rhododendrons, a large
collection was remarked, aud every species and
variety was found in healthy examples, and
Countess of Haddington, campylocarpum, barba-
tum, Falconeri, Lady A. Fitzwilliam, Mrs. Butler,
fulgens, and Aucklandi, are but a few names of the
many that were doing well.

A plant of Diospyros kaki, the celestial fruit of
China, was remarked in fruit. Another singular
plant observed was Panax ferox, whose spike-like
leaves have a touch-me-not forbidding aspect. Fine
bushy plants of the Camellia were noticed plauted in
beds ; a pretty plant uear them was Hypericum densi-
florum covered with its small yellow flowers ; aud
a plant of Cotoneaster horizontalis was covered with
berries of a bright colour.

The Apples and Pears, pyramids and cordons,
were in capital condition — and among Apples, Ame-
rican Wealthy holds a prominent place ; and beside
these, which occupy so much space, some 5000
Richardias are grown, and large numbers are being
constantly disposed of. The Chrysanthemums were
likewise a fine lot of plants, formiug row after row
of clean, healthy plants, some 8000 in all, plunged
in beds to about half the depth of the pots. These
were just 4 feet high, and were being grown for fur-
nishing flowers for cutting. Beside these, which
would be taken indoors, there were large breadths of
planted-out Chrysanthemums, also for cutting.. I
have left but little space to say anything con-

46

THE GARDENERS 'CHRONICLE.

[Jancaey 21, 1S99.

perniug the Daffodils, an important braucli of
trade, but one about which no more than an
allusion can be made.

I noticed as I passed aloDg that a part of a large
field was being ploughed. Green manuring is prac-
ticed here which helps materially to enrich the soil,
ami prevent it becoming bulb-sick. It consists in
sowing the land when the bulbs are lifted in the
months of May or June fairly thickly with Buck-
wheat, which grows quickly. In September, when
the plants are about 2 feet in height, and in flower,
it is mown. The plough is then taken into the
field, and a furrow made on one side, right through
the piece ; the bottom spit is thrown out with the
spade, and a dressing of the green Buckwheat
forked in all along the trench. The plough again
comes along, and turns over the top on to
the green dressing, and again the spades follow,
turning up the bottom spit, and by this pro-
ceeding the roots, green crop and all, are buried
well below the surface, and fresh soil is brought
to the top. The ground is then carefully
prepared, and the Daffodils are planted. The
method answers admirably. Rye-grass has also
been sown, and a good breadth was covered with a
dense turf ; and this piece of land will be treated
in a similar manner. Mr. Smith expressed a wish
that even a greater portion had been covered with
Bye. To observe the tens of thousands of bulbs
of choice varieties planted in breadth after breadth,
to notice the heaps of bulbs in the sheds still
waiting for grading and plauting : and to watch
the number of men and women engaged in this1
particular branch, afforded one a capital idea
of the importance of the Daffodil industry.
Naturally, one asks, What becomes of all
the immense number of bulbs and of flowers';
Well, the Chaunel steamers carry most of the flowers
away, and a good number of the bulbs in the season.
To watch the packing part of this business enter- .
prise is interesting and suggestive. Of Freesias,
the heaps of refracta alba and the size of the bulbs
are both remarkable. This variety of Freesia alone
is grown, and great pains are taken to keep the
stock true from intermixture with the yellow form.
In the other glass-houses I visited I will only say,
that all of them were filled with various crops in a
clean and vigorous state. The bulb and packing-
sheds are sceues of bustling activity.'

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

January 1&-. Present ! Dr. M. T. Masters, in the chair Rnfl
Mr. Veitch, Mr. Bennett-Poe, Dr; M idler, Dr. Russell, Rev.
W. Wilks. Prof, Church, Mr. Michael, and Rev. G. Henslowj
Hon. Sec.

Bigeneric OrcMd.— Mr. Velteh exhibited a flowering plant of
an Epi-Cattleya, Mrs. Jas. O'Brien; its male parent was
Cattleya. Bowringianum, ami its female parent Epidendrnm
x O'Bi-ienianum, the 'latter being from E. affectum x E.
Padicans. It has been stated that in these fbigeners the
result generally resembled the female, parent almost entirely,
put* in this case there was a decided inclination towards
i 'attleya in the form of the lip and foliage.

Mtiibness of (If Smson.— Mr. Wilks brought a spray of Oak-
leaves, still partially given, and mentioned that Blackberries!
had been lately gathered ripe — an unusual occurrence in
early January.

Thuia gigantea plicata) Barktd. — Dr, Masters showed a
stem which had. been nearly stripped of its bark, exposing
the. central axis as an almost cylindrical rod. The young
wood had made renewed eflbrts to surround Die latter, which
appeared to be dead.' It was received from Mr. Cruncher, of
Auehstertyre, near Crieff.

GRAND YORKSHIRE GALA.

Janizary 7.— The annual meeting of the life-members and
guarantors of the Grand Yorkshire Gala was held on the
above date at Harker's Hotel, Sir Christopher Milward,
Chairman of the Council, presiding.

In the pourse uf his introductory address, the Chairman
said that exactly twelve months had elapsed since their last
annual meeting, and during the interval they had had to
deplore, the loss of their late, chairman, Sir Joseph Terry.
When tfeat sad evwid. took* place, they did hint the Jionoiir-ol,

electing him as Sir Joseph's successor. As chairman, he had
to congratulate them on one of'the most successful years
experienced in the history o£ the Grand Yorkshire Gala.
Proceeding, Sir Christopher proposed the election of the Lord
Mayor as president for the ensuing year. Since the establish-
ment of the Gala they had had the honour of the co-operation
both of the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs; but it was seldom that
they were able to elect to the presidency one so closely asso-
ciated with the management of the Gala as the present Lord
Mayor, who had served them well and faithfully as vice-
chairman.

Mr. Aid. Foster, in seconding, remarked that one uf the
most pleasing features of the Gala was the fact that their
principal citizens, the Lord Mayors, had always been asso-
ciated with the undertaking in the capacity of president.

The motion was carried by acclamation.

The Lord Mayor, in reply, thanked the mover and seconder
for their kind references to himself, and said he took an espe-
cial pride in the success of the Grand Yorkshire Gala.

The re-election of Sir Christopher Milward as chairman of
the C6uncil was moved by the Lord "Mayor, and the Sheriff of
York seconded the nomination. ■ The resolution was adopted
unanimously. The Chairman appropriately acknowledged his
re-election.

On the proposition of Mr. G. Balmford, seconded by Mr,
J. W. Craven, the Lord Mayor was re-elected vice-chairman.

Mr. Joseph Wilkinson was unanimously re-elected treasurer,
Mr. C. W. Simmons secretary, and Messrs. Pearson and Taylor
auditors.

Mr. T. G. Hodgson proposed that the sum of £6b0 be
granted to the Floral Committee. The amount was the same
as that granted last year, but he understood that the com-
mittee contemplated a revision of the schedule, which was not
up-to-date.

The sum of £230 was granted for the musical arrangements.
£120 for the firework displays, £60 for balloon ascents, and
£175 for the entertainments. A special grant of £100 was
made to the entertainment committee for the improvement ot
the stage, and the provision of a proper proscenium.

Mr. Hugh Low, of the firm of Messrs. Hugh Low &Co.,
London, was elected a life-member. The Chairman, in sub-
mitting the proposition, commented on the fine exhibition of
Orchids contributed by Messrs. Low to the Gala of last year.
The firm had also sent a donation of £5.

A vote of thanks to Sir Christopher Milward for presiding
concluded the proceedings.

, H. H. Bolton, Esq., of Newchurch, showed Dendrobium
Andromeda (Award of Merit). F. Sandur & Co., St. Albans,
showed Cyp. Enryale magnificum, Cyp. Chamberlainianum
x Cyp. Leeanuin gigauteum (Award of Merit) ; and Cyp.
Lathamianum inversum. Heath & Son, Cheltenham, showed
Cyp. Blliottianum (Award of Merit) and Cultural Certificate..

ULSTER HORTICULTURAL.

January 12. — The annual meeting of the above was held on
this date in the Imperial and Windsor Hotel, Belfast. Sir
James Haslett in the chair.

The financial statement showed the Society to be on a firm
basis, thanks to the genuine interest taken by the city
merchants on the Committee. The total income taken for
the last show amounted to £662 12s. 8d., and the expenditure
£588 17s. Id. The Committee also voted 200 shillings to the
Lord Mayor's Queen's-statue Fund, which leaves, with balance
brought forward, £105 16s. &d.

Votes of Thanks were passed to Messrs. Paul and Allen, the
Hon. Secretary and Treasurer; and November 13 and 14 fixed
for next Show.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENG-
LAND ORCHID.

January 12. — The last meeting took place at the Coal
Exchange, Manchester, on the above date, and there were
present Shorland Ball, Esq., in the chair, and Messrs. Law-
Schofield, Warburton, Greenwood, Weathers, Holmes, Robson
Johnson, J. Leemann, and Mills (Hon. Sec).

Thomas Statter, Esq., Whitefield, showed Cypripedium
Insigne* iSanderianum, receiving a First class Certificate ;
Cyp. Luciani superbum and , Cyp. vexillarium superbum
(Award of Merit), G. Suouland Bali,, Esq., Wilmslow, showed
Lycaste Balla; (Skinneri a Measuresiaua), Cyp. nitens magnifi-
cum (F.C.C.) ; Cyp. Dauthieri albino (Award of Merit) ; Cyp.
Qerminyamun (Award of Merit); and Oncidium eheirophorum
(Cultural Certificate), S \ huelGbatrix, Esq., Whalley Range,
showed Cattleya Trianrei " Mrs. S'.Gratrix " (Award of Merit j ;
Cyp. nitens superlnnn a Award of Merit); Cyp. Chapmani,
(Award of Merit); Cyp. Ceres, Cyp. Mrs. Margaret live
("Award of Merit); Cyp. Seedling (Leeanuin superbum x
Boxalli atratum ., Cyp, Calypso; Gyp. Seedling (cenanthum
snrperbUm ■ Harrisianum), Cyp. Seedling (insigne x unknown),
Cyp. Seedling (cenanthum superbum ■ Sallieri), Cyp. Bellona
superba, and Cyp. Alcidea

G. W. LiW-ScHOFjELb, Rawtenstall, showed Cyp.
Measuresire (F.C.C). John Lickman, Esq.. Heaton Mersey,
showed Cattleya Triansei, La-liu Gouldiana, F.C.C. ; Cyp.
Seedling, Cyp. Sallieri Hyeanum, Cyp. Smithi, Cyp. insigne,
West Bank House var. ; Cyp. Lathamianum gigauteum, Cyp.
J. B. Haywood (Award ol Merit), Odbntoglossum crispum, and
ihiscellanebus group ol On luds (Silver Medal). Hi;m;v Green-
wood, Esq.. Haslingden, showed Cyp. Gillianum (Award of
Merit), and Cyp, Mons. de Curte (Award of Merit), and Vote of
Thanks for Group. < >. < >. Wimot.ev, Esq.. Bury,showed Cyp.
Insigne, Uplands var. * C. i. subfuscurh, C. i Dorrnariianuni
(Award of Merit); C. i. I .ueiani (Award ol Merit) ; C. eallosu
niagnilicum (F.C.C.), Cyp. M. de Curte (Award of Merit), Cyp.
Mrs. Maynai't, Cyp. niten magnificum (F.CC), Cyp. Jupiter
(Award of MeVit), Cyp. Leeanum aureiim (Award of Merit);
also, Silver Medal for collection of Cypripediums. D. B.
Hapb*vr'i\ Esq., nf Discard, showed Cyp. Harrisiannin alben»
(Award of Merit).

BRISTOL AND DISTRICT MUTUAL
IMPROVEMENT.

•Iani'.uiv 1_\ — The present session of the society was opened
on the above date with a very successful meeting, to hear a
lecture by Mr. F. W. E. Shrivei.l, F.L.S., of Ton bridge, Kent,
on " Chemical Manures."

The lecturer, who was cordially received, said, that as a
nation we were far ahead of any other in the use of chemical
manure, and stated that at the farm at Tonbridge experiments
were beiug conducted with a view to ascertaining the results
of growing crops with chemical manures alone, and in con-
junction with stable manure. By means of a black-board and
a lucid manner of dealing with the subject, he showed his
audience the constituents of stable manure, and how they
could be applied in chemical form. He also detailed the ex-
periments that had been made under different conditions at
Tonbridge, and gave results, which showed, that in some cases
crops could be more successfully grown with chemical than
with i dlier manure ; and always proving that chemicals could
be profitably and successfully added to other manures
Asparagus, Onions, Strawberries, Broccoli, and Cabbage were
ail mentioned as having been grown under the varying con-
ditions.and always to greater advantage with the aid of
ehemi^als.

Concluding his lecture, Mr. Shrivell said that the proper
method of gardening was to throw aside all old-fashioned
prejudices, and as science was the handmaid of praetiee, there*
was no reason why, as time went on, they should not grow as
good crops and at a cheaper cost by the'^use of chemical
manures.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the lecturer on the
motion of the Chairman, Mr. W. A. Garaway.

A prize of 10s., offered by Mr. White, for two Nepenthes,
was secured by Mr. W. H. Bannistkk.

EDINBURGH BOTANICAL.

January 12.— The monthly meeting of this society was held
at Jj, St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh, at S o'clock, p.m., on
the above date. The President, Dr. W. Watson, occupying the
chair. Two new candidates were elected— A. W. Borthwick,
B.Sc, and Alexander Morton, B.Sc.

' The exhibitions included a specimen of Tremellodon gelati-
nosiuu. tlie " Dumfriesshire fungus." This is a gelatinous-
looking fungus, the specimen exhibited being about,one inch
across, and was found by the president at the foot of trees in a
wood at Moffat. Though frequent on the continent, in Britain
tins fungus" is said never to have been discovered out of Dum
friesshire. When fresh it is covered with glaucous spines, and
possesses a bluish tint. Dr. Cooke states this is an edible
fungus. A fine specimen of Cos tigrina, a longicorn beetle,
was brought before the notice of the society by Dr. R. Stewart
MacDoUgal, M.A., who had secured the specimen from a sec-
tion of wood perforated by this insect. Some of these were
stated to make tunnels large enough to lay the fingers in, and
the specimen of wood shown illustrated well the great damago
capable of being done by this North-American species.

Of the communications and papers, the first was given by
S\niiiigtnn Grieve, Esq., beiug " Some Notes on Andromeda
polifolia, Linn.," with special reference to anew station found
by the reader in Liddesdale, at an elevation of 1000 feet.

A. W. Borthwick, Esq., B.Sc., gave, two papers, one on
" Quaflrifoliar' Spurs in Pinus Laricio var. virgata," and also,
" Notas on the Ihte-rfoliar Buds of Pi-nus Laricio, Poir." The
reader illustrated his papers by branches and .buds. "Some
Micro-methods," by Alex. Lundie, Esq., were communicated
by R. A.'Robertson, Esq,. M.A., B.Se., who also read some
notes on experiments on " Contact Negatives for the Compara-
tive Study, of Woods ;" slides and photographs of these were
laid before the society. The claim was stated by the reader
to be principally for their, adaptability in class work. P. I.. II.

SOCIETE FRANQAISE DHORTICUL-
TURE DE LONDRES.

January 14. — The members and friends of the above
Society assembled] in strong force on the above date, for the
purpose of celebrating the Tenth annual dinner.

Among the visitors were Messrs. Hiehlc, Tivey, Arnold
Moss, Tlios. Bevan, Harman Payne, Tucker, Gaskill, Ac. Tim
chair was taken by Mr. Drost, of the Kew Nurseries, to whom
the Society was indebted for the loan of a nice collection of
Palms, foliage plants, <fec, to decorate the room with.

Mr. George Schneider, in a few well-chosen words, briefly
traced the progress of the Society since its formation, and in
introducing the chairman, mentioned that he was an employer
of many of the young members of the Society Who came -to
this country to learn the language and complete their horti-
cultural education.

Mr. Drost replied. He thought they could look back with
great satisfaction in the past, for the Society, having began
in a humble way, was now one of great importance and useful-
-ness. The membership was now about 500. The library had
Jargely increased, many of the books having been bound
uring the past year: and the balance in the bank showed

January 21, 1899.]

THE GA K I) E N E ht S' CHKO NI CLE,

47

l substantial increase, all of which were matters for con-
glatulation, and largely due to devoted and active efforts of
their friend, Mr. Schneider. He hoped the Society would
continue to flourish, and would ask them to drink to theil
President's health, which was responded to with the utmost
cordiality.

Mr. Schneider returned thanks. He referred to the Rood
understanding between English and Continental gardeners, and
to the help the Society received from honorary members, who
made loom in their nurseries for those of the young men
who came to this country. More than eighty new mem-
bers .joined this year, ami the Society had now the advan-
tage of a nice place for n tings. Other improvements

Had been made, andexpenses incurred, but atill they could toast
of a larger balance in band than ever. He wsb pleased also
to see so many English visitors present, and called upon the
Company to drink to their health. At this juncture, M.
Qouillond.in the name of the memSra titulaires, made a nre-
sentationof a cafiNere to Mr. Schneider as a mark of their
esteem and appreciation. After Mr. Schneider's reply, Mr.
Arnold Moss responded for the visitors. Mr. Gachelin proposed
the English hoitieultuval Press, to which Mr. Harman Payne
responded.

ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL
IMPROVEMENT.

.Iasvary 14.— The annual meeting of the Isle of Wight
Horticultural Improvement Association was held on Saturday
last at the Newport. Guildhall. Dr. J. Grovks, B.A., J.P.,
presided over a large attendance of members from all parts of
the Island.

After the confirmation of the minutes of the last animal

meeting, the report for 1898 was ai lop ted, on the proposition
of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. R. F. Eldridge, .7. P., C.A..
Vice-Chairman of the County Council, and Chairman ol the
Technical Education Committee. Then followed the election
of officers for the ensuing year, after which a social entertain-
ment took place at Warburton's Hotel, where St >ngs. recitations,
duets, ,&c, were given by the members. Mr. A. Guy staged a
collection of Cyclamen, for which he received a unanimous
vote of thanks.

SHIRLEY & DISTRICTS GARDENERS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

.Iamary 111.— The monthly meeting of the above society
was held at the Parish Room, Shirley, Southampton, on the
above date, when the President, W. P. & Sphxnoeb, Esq.,
presided, there being an average attendance of the members.
Tic lecture. "The Effects of Electricity on Plants," was given
Ity R. W. Stewart, Esq., H. Sc, London, principal of the
Hartley College, Southampton, and was under the auspices
,,i the Southampton County Council Technical Education Com-
mittee, The lee t lll'e W Js ViM V ellielelllh illustrate.! I ,\ Q r i 1 1 r j t ,1

of diagrams, hint em slides, and electric experiments.

The lecturer Brat gave a brief descripti f electric scion > .

explaining with actual experiments the meaning of high and
low pressure, positive ami negative electricity, and many
other terms in constant use. He also showed bow a current
may be made to pass through ordinary soils, and showed that
a box "I seeds which had been subjected to a current for two
hours .lady, showed a higher and better percentage Of germi-
nation than boxes of similar seeds not so treated. Referai ce
was also made to experiments carried out in France and
Russia, and also m tins country at Clifton, where, on experi-
mental plots of laud, high poles carrying conductors had been
erected, and eon tted underground with wires in all direc-
tions. Comparison of the crops grown on these experimental
plots, with similar crops grown on adjacent plots, not electri.

dally treated, showed an increase ol ti forty to sixtyper

cent, in favour of the former.

The lecturer concluded by hoping some ol Ins audience
would U'y some of the. experiments he had shown them, and
communicate the results 10 him later on. A hearty vote ol
thanks was accorded to the lecturer at the close of the lecture,

©bituar\>.

Mr. A. C. Wheeler. — We regret to announce
the death of Mr. A. C. \V heeler, J. P., of Gloucester,

which occurred after a long illness on Friday the
13th inst. The deceased was the sole proprietor of
the old-established nursery and seed business
eat ried on under the style of Messrs. .1. t '. Wheeler
& Son, Gloucester. The firm has been in existence
upwards of a century, Mr. Wheeler being the third
head the business lias kn own in this long period.
He had long enjoyed in the West of England a
wide reputation in horticultural science, and
throughout his career he was intimately connected
with agricultural interests of the county and dis;
trict, and actively pro moted every movement for
their advancement. As far back as 18G2 he was pre-
sented with a valuable clock, salver, and claret-jug,
in recognition of his services as local secretary to the
Gloucester meeting of the Gloucestershire Agricul-
tural Society, the President of the Association,

Mr. E. Holland, M.P., supplementing this with
a gold snuff-box ; and four years later he was pre-
sented with a handsome piece of plate, in the form
of a silver epergne, by the Agricultural and Horti-
cultural Society, in recognition of his exertions
during the prevalence of the cattle-plague of that
time. Mr. Wheeler was for a long period hon.
secretary' of the Gloucester Chamber of Agriculture,
and retained the appointment up to the time of his
death. He was formerly for some years hon.
secretary of the Gloucestershire Root, Fruit, and
Grain Society. The deceased gentleman, who was
seventy-three years of age, was an Alderman of
the City Council, and had held the distinguished
offices of High Sheriff and Mayor of Gloucester.

The term "accumulated temperature " indicates the age

amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of tempi raturfl
above or below 42* Falir. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees — a "Hay
degree" signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

Rainfall.

Briuht
Bon.

J: ic

Accumulated.

D

r.

£ £

7*3

8 .IS. \£

a

i-

a . =.z.

V.

c

c

»a3

r. z.

3 »'S .

a

"3 |£ ?

s

:. _ -. :. _ - s. „

0 -

a

' T

i. ■

5

- — z o *?

a

*5

C O)

*P

?^-«f -rg
"Es'jsa - —
SSgiSSS o*
■a *•►,! «,■•-►, g

< 3

— z

s

5"

3«

o

> CJ

<

5

a

?,

o

CJ

u

C

s ;

1'

Day-

1

Iiav-

lOths

'leg.

■ leg.

deg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

-' + -1

26

- t; - 27

0 avei

11 21 12

12

1

:

- 10 - 12

1 +

12 14 16

13

._>

ID

21

+ 1 - 28

1 +

o O-o

14

11

3

0 +

20

11

+ 23 - 49

4 +

HI

1-2 35

28

4

o +

20

18

- 4::

6 +

11

li.

20

IS

...

8 +

;::,

2

+ 3S

- oo

4 +

10

1-5

31

..7

c

3 +

10

18

__ 2

- 17

0 +

14

:r.

12

11

7

5 + 1'4

7

+ 20

- 36

4 +

12

I-,

13

13

s

f, + .; .

I

+ 86

- 43

15 +

12

::■!!

9

11

9

2 + I 11

22

_ 0

' avei

1 -

IS

is

-'

15

10

._, ^ .j,.

13

J- 24 - 10

10 +

14

:,,

23

is

.1 +

"

+ 56 - 24

8 +

12

3 0 13 15

Tlie districts indicated by number in the lirst column are
the following :—

0, Scotland, X. Pi
1, Scotland, E. ; •.', Kn
4, Miiilaii'l Counties ; 5,

7, England, X.W. ; \
10, Ireland, n. ; *Chant

:ipal Wheat-producing Districts —

England, N.E. ; 8, England, K. ;

, England, including London, n

Districts— •;, Scotland, W. ;

England, S.W, ; 0, Ireland, X. ;

el Inlands.

THE PAST WEEK.
The following summary record of the weather throughotil

tlie British Islands fur tin- week ending January 14. is
furnished from tlie Meteorological Office : —

"The weatJur duting tliis period was. very changeable, and
rainy over the x^ 1 1 > > 1 * ■ kingdom, 1 ut several line bright intervals
were experienced over the southern and vastern parts of
England, as well as <u-er Ireland.

"The | was again above tlie mean, tin- excess

ranging from 2* in ' Scotland, X. and E.,' and over ' Ireland,'
to as much as 0° in 'England, E.,' the ' Midland Counties,'
'England, S.>V.(' and the 'Channel Islands,' and s in 'Eng-
land, s. The highest of the maxima were registered either
on the 8th or 12th, and ranged from ,"»7 in the 'Channel
Islands, and ".tiJ in ' England, S. and 8.W.,' and ' Ireland, 8.,
to "'U in. 'England, X.K. Tl & lowest of tli-* minima which
were recorded on the 8th in S< otland,- and during the middle
of the week elsewhere, varied- from 253 in 'Scotland, E.' and
•Ireland, N.' to 33° in 'England, X.W.,' and to 41° in the
1 Channel Islands.'

"The rainfall was more than the mean very generally, but
only just equal to it in lS 1- X\. and slightly less ill

' Ireland, X. Over the southern half of the kingdom the fall
was ab mt twice as nincfi as r ' nerrnal.

"The bright sunshine excet led the mean over Ireland, in
'England, 6. and E./ and t he 'Midland Counties,', audi just

equalled it in 'Scotland, N. and E.' In all other districts
however, there was a deficiency. The percentage of the pos-
sible duration ranged from 35 in 'England, E.' and 31 in
'England, S.' to between 23 and 25 in Ireland, and to 9 in
•England, S.W.'

Markets.

•

COVEN T GARDEN, JANUARY 19.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined

reports. They are furnished to U8 regularly every
Thursday, by the kindness of se\eral of the principal
■ salesmen, who revise the list, and who are responsible
tor the quotations. It must be remembered that these
quotations do not represent the prices on any particular
day, but only the general averages for the week preceding
the elate of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.]

FuiiT.— AVKRAGK WHOLESALE PRICES.

s. d. 8. d. a, <l s. rf.

Apples, per bushel 4 6- t-"> o Grapes, Muscats

Beetings, per

bushel
1 — Greenings, per

bushel
' — Wellingtons,

bushel

— Sourings, per

bushel

— Large cookers,

per bushel ...

— French, Kei-

nt-tte Gris,

cases

Crabs, bush,

: large cookers,

cases...

— Nova Scotia

Baldwins,
Gree nings,
Gold Russets,
Ribstons, and

other suits

per barrel ...

— Calif or ii ian

Xru Towns,
Fancy Reds,
&c, per case

Bananas, per bunch
Chestnuts, various,
per bag ... .

Cobnuts, per 100 lb. 35 0-45 0

Cranberries, Ameri-
can, box ... 12 0 —

Custard-Applea.dor, ti 0-12 o

Grapes, English,

Alicante, lb. ... l o- l r.
~ Gros Coimar ... 1 0- 1 ti

► 0- 5 ti
4 0-5 6
ti 0-10 0
3 6- 5 ti

3 0- 5 0

0 —

0- 8 0

It 0 !5 0

o- 9 u

0 14 0

4 0-14 0

per lb.

— Alnieria, dOZ,

lb

— Belgian, lb. ...
Lemons, per case...

1 — Messina, 3ti0 ...
! Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 lb. ... 1 ti
Oranges; Jafla,cases- 7 0-00

— Denia, case, 420 9 0 —

— Mandarin, pkt.

of 10 boxes ...

— Valencia

— Teheriffe, case

— Seville Bitters;

per case

— Tangierine, box

of 25

— — box of 108
Pears, Californian,

Easter Beurre,

case, 108 ... is o —

— (Jiotit Morceau,

per case .. IS o

— Winter X.dis,

per case ... l,; u —

— Catiilac.French.

crates ... 14 0- —
Pines.SI Michael's,

each 2 0-40

— West India.doz. 7 H- S 0

Flams Iroin the

Cape, case of

24 10 0 12 n

Walnuts, kiln-dried,

Naples, cwt, ... 36 0 —
— peck ... 4 0 —

2 0- 4 0

6 0-80

0 S-0 10

7 6-14 0
4 ti-12 0

5 0 —
7 8-15 it

4 0 -li,

0 6-0 K>
4 0 —

Vrobtablbs.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Artichokes, Globe,
pei aba

— Jerusalem, per
sieve

Asparagus, Paris,
green

— Giant, bund. ...

— Spanish, bund.

— Sprue

— English, per 100
Beans, Uwfs., Chan-
nel Islands, lb.

— Madtira, bkt.
Beetroots, per

dozen

— bushel

Brussels Sprouts,
per sieve

— per bushel
Brussels tops, bush,
Cabbage, Cole worts,

per bushel

— Savoys, p. doz,

— - - per tally ...
< lardoons, each ...
Cauliflowers, p. doz.

— per tally

— Italian, baskets
oflB

CeleriaCj per dozen

Carrots, washed, in

bags

— unwashed

— Surrey, bunchs.

— French flats ...
Celery, Red, dozen

bundles

— unwashed
Chicory, per lb. ...
Chow Chow, orCha-

yote, case about

301b. ...
Cress, i\nz. punnets
Cucumbers, per doz.
Endive, French, per

dozen

— Batavian, doz.
Garlic, per lb.
Horseradish, New

English, bundle

— — loose per
doz., fine

1 3- 1 ti

3 0-36
14 0-18 0
19-20
0 6-0 10

ti ti- 7 ti

20 -

2 0-30

0 6-09
2 0 —

1 0-

2 0-
1 6

2 0 —

13-20

r. 0- !' 0

I 0 1 3

1 i»- 1 n

ti 0- S 0

3 0-36

1 9- -l 0

3 0 —

2 0 -
2 0- ii ti
1 3 —

8 0-15 0

0 0 —
0 3 —

4 6-50
1 6 —

5 0-10 0

20 -
16-20
0 3 —

2 0

Horseradish, f,,r.

eign, p. bundle
Leeks, doz. bunch.
Lettuce, Cabbage,

per doz.
Mint, new, forced,

per doz. bunch.
Mushrooms, house,

per lb

Onions,' Albanians,
bags

— Dutch, per bag

— English, cwt...

— Valencia, cases

— pfekters, sieve
Parsley, per dozen

— sieve

Parsnips, per dozen

— cwt. bags
Potatos; Bebrons,

Snowdrops, Up-
to»Doto,&c.,per

ton

I — New, Algerian
Kidneys, per
lb. ...

— — Frame, lb.

— — TeneriH'e,
perow't.

Radishes, Round,

breakfast, per

dozen bunches
Rhubarb, York, per

doz. bundles .,
Salad, small, pun-

nets; per dozen
Scotch Kale, bushel
Seakale. per dozen

punnets
Shallots, per cwt. ...
Spinach, French;

crates

Tomatos, Canary.

boxes
Turnips, Eng., per

doz. bunches ...

— in bags

Tnrnip-Tops, bag ...
Watercress, p. doz.

bun-dies
Yams from C.iiiari-s,

S. d. s. d,
1 3 —

1 0- 1 ti
4 II- (i 0

0 6-09

ti 0- 6 6

4 6- 5 o
6 0- C ti

5 6 ;» 0

2 0-30
10-16

1 0 —
U li- li y

3 0 —

*■<) 0-so o

" 21-u 8
0 5- 0 6

12 0-10 0

0 6 ii 8

1 3

2 i.

10 0-15 O

8 o 9 i)

[ 0 B 6

2 0- 3 ti

2 0 —
2 0 —
2 0- 2 6

0 ti- 0 9

4 0-70

'Potatos.

Beauties, Saxons, Giants, Cp-to Date, &c, according to
sample, $0s. to 80s. per ton ; Dunbar Main Crop
'Suth, ZZ-Mid 34, tVi tm. '

48

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 21, 1899.

Plants in Pots.-— Average Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s. d.
Arbor Vita, p. <loz. 12 0-36 0
Aspidistras, p. doz. 18 0-36 0

. d. s. d.

1897, together with the difference in the quotations,
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

specimen, each
Dracaenas, various,

per doz. ...
— viridis, p. doz.
Euonymus, various.

per dozen
Evergreens, in van,

per dozen
Ferns, in variety

per dozen

Ferns, small, per

100 4 0-60

0-10 0 ! Ficus elastica, each 10-50
Foliage plants, var.,

12 0-30 0 I each 10-50

:■ 0-1S 0 ' Lycdpodiums, doz. 3 0-40

Marguerite Daisy,

G 0-18 0 per dozen ... 6 0-80

Myrtles, per doz.... 6 0-00

6 0-21 0 Palms, various, ea. 1 0-15 0

, — specimens, ea. 21 0-63 0

4 012 0 ' Scarlets, per doz. 4 0-60

Cut Flowers.— Averaoe Wholesale Prices.

s. d. 5.

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms ...
Asparagus "Fern,''

bunch

Azalea, white, 12bius.
Bbuvatdias, per bun.
Carnations, per doz.

blooms

Eucharis, per dozen
Gardenias, per doz.
Hyacinths, Roman,

per doz. bunches
Lilium longiflorum,

per dozen
Lily, of the Valley,

dozen sprays
Marguerites, 12 bun.
Maidenhair Fern,

per doz. bunches

2 0-30

1 o- l 3
0 6-08

2 0-30
2 6-40
2 0-30

6 0-80

1 6-
6 0-

6 0-

0

Narcissus, White, p.

dozen bunches ...
Orchids, per dozen

blooms

Pelargoniums, doz.

bunches

— scarlet, per doz.
bunches

Pink Roses, per

dozen.

Roses (indoor), doz.

— Tea, white, doz.

— Perle, per doz.

— Safrano, p. doz.
Smilax, per bunch
Tuberoses, 12 blms.
Violets, per dozen

bunches

— Parma, bunch

d.

2 0-40

6 0*12 0

6 0-00

8 0-10 0

4 0- G 0
16-20

3 0-40
10-20
16-20
2 0-30
10-16

10-20

4 6-60

Remarks.— Amongst fruits, the prices are much the same
as in last report. French Spinach advanced in price. Hohie
supply practically nil. Note Cape Plums as above. Further
arrivals of Cape fruits are expected next week, when Peaches,
&c, may be expected to show. Home-grown Tomatos are
now finished. Canaries come in good condition and quality.

SEEDS.

London: January 18.— Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, Seed
MeTcfiants, of Great Maze Pond, Borough, London, S.E.,
describe tc-day's seed market as thinly attended, with, but
few transactions passing. For grass and Clover seeds the
sale is, as yet, confined to narrow lines, whilst as regards
values, no important alteration can be noted. There is still
a great scarcity of Rye. Tares show no change. The demand for
Haricot Beans, Blue Peas, and Spanish Lentils is, in conse-
quence of the mild weather, meagre. Bird seeds likewise
attract,' for the moment, but little attention. For Linseed
the trade is quiet. Mustard and Rape seed keep steady.
The Board of Trade returns give the imports of Clover and
grass seeds into the United Kingdom for the month of
December, 1808, as 42,872 cwt., value £82,352, as against
43.0S4 cwt., value £70,407 for the corresponding period of 1897.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

Glasgow : January 18.— The following are the averages
of the prices recorded since our last report :— Apples, per
barrel, Canadian Baldwins, 25s. to 27s. ; Phoenix, 24s. to
26s. ; Mignons, 22s. to 24s. ; American — Californian New-
town Pippins, 7s. 6c/. to 98. 6d. per case; Lemons, Mes-
sina, 7s. to 10s. do. ; Palermo, Ss. to 10s. do. ; Grapes,
home, Is. 3d. to Is. Qd. per lb. ; bitter Oranges, Blond
Bitters, 7s. per case; Oranges, Jaffa, 7s., 7s. 0d., to Ss. 6(7.
do.; do., Valencia, ordinary, 420's, bs. Qd. to 7s. do.; do.,
large, 9s. to 10s. do. ; do., extra large, lis. to 13s. do.; do.
714's, 6s. Gd. to 8s. do. ; Mandarins Oranges, Gd. to Qd. per box ;
Marcias, 5s. to 7s. per case ; Pears, Californian Winter Nelis,
0s. to 13s. do. ; Pears, do., Easter Beurre, 12s. to 15s. do. ; do.,
Glou Morceau, 12s. to 15s. do. ; Onions, Valencias, 4's, 7s. Gd.
and 8s. per case; do., 5's, 0s. Gd. do.; Cabbage, late Savoys,
Qd. to Is. Gd. per dozen ; Parsnips, 3s. to 4s. per cwt. ; Herbs,
Id. to 2d. per bunch ; Parsley, Is. to Is. Gd. per stone ;
Potatos, !">(<". to Gd. do. ; Carrots, '2s. Gd. to 4s. per cwt. ;
Cucumbers, 9d. to Is. each; Lettuce, Gd. to Qd. per dozen;
Hadishes, Is. Gd. per dozen bunches; Horseradish, 2s. per
bundle ; Mushrooms, Qd. to Is. 3d. per lb. ; Beetroots, Gd. to
Qd. per dozen ; Brussels Sprouts, Is. 3d. to Is. Gd. per stone ;
Turnips, Swedes, Is. to Is. '2d. per bag; do. white, 28. per
dozen large bunches ; Sea Kale, Is. Qd. to 2s. per bunch.

Liverpool: January 18. — Wholesale Vegetable Market: —
Potatos, per cwt., Giants, 2s. to 2s. 2d. ; Main Crop, 2s. 8& to
3s. 2d. ; Bruce, 2s. 4d. to 2s. S<<\ ; Turnips, Sd. to Is. per dozen
bunches ; Swedes, Is. 4<i. to Is. Qd. per cwt. ; Carrots,
2s. Qd. to 3s. Gd. do. ; Parsley, Gd. to 8(7. per dozen bunches ;
Onions, English, 5s. to 6s. per cwt,; do., foreign, 4s. to
4s. 0(7. do. ; Cauliflowers, Is. Qd. to 3s. per dozen ; Cabbages,
8(7. tola. do. ; Celery, 8(7. to Is. Gd. do. St. John's ; — Potatos,
10d. to Is. per peck ; Grapes, English, 2s. to 3s. per lb. ;
do., foreign, Gd. to Is. do. ; Pines, English, 4s. to 7s. each ;
Cobnuts, 8(7. per pound ; Asparagus, Is. per bundle ; Cucum-
bers, Is. 3(7. each; Mushrooms, Is. 4(7. per lb., and basket.
Birkenhead ; — Potatos, Sd. to 10(7. per peck ; Grapes, English,
Is. 6(7. to 3s. Gd. per pound; do., foreign, Gd. to lOd. do.;
Pines, English, Gs. to 10s. each ; do., foreign, 4s. to Gs. do. ;
Mushrooms, Is. to Is. 6(7, per lb.

CORN.

Description.

1S98.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

Barley

Oats

s. d.
35 0

27 8

17 4

s. J.

27 2

28 2
17 1

s. d.

- 7 10

+ 06

- 0 3

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. William Owen, principal Foreman at Madrestield Court
Gardens for the past three years, as Head Gardener to
the Hon. G. H. Allsopp, M.P., Foston Hall, Derby, in
succession to Mr. G. Lewis, who retires from gardening
to take up farming in March next.

Mr. J. W. Buckingham, for the past two years Foreman at
Taplow Court Gardens, Maidenhead, has been appointed
by the Trustees of the late Sir Robert Meads to take
charge of the Englemere Estate, Ascot, Berks.

Mr. Geo. Murray, for the last twelve months Gardener to
P. R. Waud, Esq., 14, Spring Bank, Manningham, Brad-
ford, as Gardener and Bailiff to Mrs. Barlow, Shimdda-
Hir, Llandudno, North Wales.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Wm. Samson & Co., S and 10, Portland Street, Kilmarnock —

Seeds, &c.
Wm. Cdtrush & Soy, Highgate, London, N.— Garden

Seeds, &c.
Charles Sharpe & Co., Ltd., Sleaford— Seeds, &c.
Tii.lev BkOS., 133, London Road, Brighton — Seeds.
Bell & Bieberstedt, Leith, N.B. — Wholesale List of

Seeds, &c.
W. Drummond & Sons, Ltd., Seeds, &c.
H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent — Seeds, &c.
Thos. S. Ware, Ltd., Hale Farm, Tottenham— Seeds, and

Begonia, Chrysanthemums, <fec.
Haaoe <fc Schmidt, Nurserymen, Erfurt, Germany— Seeds and

Plants.
W. Wells & Co., Ltd., Earlswond, Bedhill, Surrey— Supple-
mentary List of Chrysanthemums.
Thos. Kennedy & Co., High Street, Dumfries— Seeds, &c.
Harlan P. Kelsev, 1100, Tremont Buildings, Boston, Mass.
— Hardy American Plants and Carolina Mountain
Flowers.
Robt. Sydenham, Tenby Street, Birmingham— Seeds, &c.
Thyne & Paton, 18, Union Street, Dundee— Seeds.
William Fell & Co., Royal Seed Establishment, Hexham—

Seeds, <bc.
Henry Eckeord, Wem, Shropshire— Seeds, &c, Novelties in

Sweet and Culinary Peas.
Austin & McAslan, 89, Mitchell Street, Glasgow— Seeds, tie.
Friedr. C. Pomrencke, Hambnrgerstras.se, 42 to 46, Altona,

Hamburg — Seed.L:, &c.
John Bolam & Sons, Alnwick— Seeds.
Fred. Smith & Co., Church Street, Woodbridge — Seeds.
Thos. Davies& Co., Wavertree, Liyerpool— Seeds, A-c.
Arthur Robinson, Ia, BishopBgate Street Without, London,
E.C.-Seeds, &C.

0.m\fm

Act
rrtdpomknU

Averaoe Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr), for the
weekending January 14, and for the corresponding period of

Asparagus plumostjs : James. This plant and
others similar grow well in the intermediate
house, i.e. at a temperature of 50° to 65°, but the
sprays are then too compact, and growth gener-
ally is very close, and more graceful growths are
obtaiued by cultivation in a temperature of 00°
by night, to 75" or 80° by day. In the dull
season a medium should be struck between the
temperatures of the stove and that of the inter-
mediate house.

Books : B. G. Stanley. .Journal of the Board of
Agriculture. This publication is printed and
published by Eaughton & Co., 1, Essex Street,
Strand, W.C.

Cymbidiums : Veritas. The Cymbidiums you
mention are regarded as winter flowerers, though
they often flower at other seasons.

Cypripedium : J. D., Bnrton-on-Trent. We do
not know a C'ypripedium by the name you gave.

Dendrobium Flowers : M. N. A very good
form of D. nobile.

Forcing Freesias and Narcissus Paper-white
two years running : Reader. No good results
would follow the practice.

Gardeners' Wages : R. T. We think that gene-
rally the highest wage is paid in the manufac-
turing districts of mid and northern England.
With reference to the number of hours worked,
the rule of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer

half-year, and 7 a.m. to 5 P.M. in the winter half,
hold good in most places over the entire country.
In some districts Saturday is a " short " day.

Marram Grass : W. F. M. See the Gardener*'
Chrcmide, December 16, 1898, p. 750.

Names of Fruit : H. T. C. 10 and 11, resembles
Gravenstein ; 12, French Crab. — /. B. Not known.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — A. F. 1, a form of
C'ypripedium x nitens, with more than the usual
evidence of C. villosum in it. 2, Oncidium
sphacelatum ; 3, Vanda Amesiaua ; 4, Calanthe
x Bella, with sepals not quite so white as the
original. — P.H. Cattleya Triamei var. delicata.
— V. T. Ceelogyne Eossiana. — /. B. R. Plymp-
ton. The flower of Ltvlia peduncularis sent
previously, like these now sent, was imperfect on
account of all the parts being pressed together,
and the pollinia lost. We did not find a
flower of C'ypripedium. Flowers should be sent
in strong boxes, so as to preserve their form, and
particulars, or a rough sketch of growth materially
assists identification. — Scotch. Dolichos Lablab,
of Linnseus, native of India, and frequently
cultivated in warm countries. The pods in a
green state are used as pickles, and in Egypt the
pods are cooked as Kidney beans. It is figured
at t. 896 of the Botanical Magazine.

Potash — quantity to employ as a dressing :
Reader. The quantity of this salt (carbonate of
potash) to be used on land under fruit trees, if
applied in the form of wood-ashes, is 40 bushels
to the acre. If the mineral salt is used 2J cwt.
per acre is a sufficient dressing applied in the
autumn or spring. If manure from the farm-
yard or stables be used, and there is a good
proportion of straw therein, much potash is
supplied to the land by that means.

" Riviera flora " : Enquirer. Moggridge's Flora
of Meutoue, and Bicknell's Flowering Plants of
the Riviera are both most useful, containing
numerous coloured plates. Ardoino Flore des
Alpes Maritimes is even more complete, but is not
illustrated. Probably there are local Floras to
be had at less cost, for which enquiry should be
made of the leading booksellers in the large
towns. The geueral Floras of France and Italy,
naturally include the plants of the Riviera.

Servants Licences : Shaw. A licence has to be
taken out yearly for each gardener and under-
gardener, but not for garden labourers.

"Twin" Fruited Apple: J. L., I.W. Your
specimen is by no means an uncommon one.
Apples, Tomatos, and other fruits frequently
furnish instances of two fruits having become
perfectly united together. It is hardly correct
to describe such cases as " freaks " of Nature,
as the circumstance is due to the fact that at a
very early stage of their growth two buds became
fused together by the close pressure exerted.
Occasionally one growing point becomes divided,
and produces a similar condition. We are
pleased to know that for a period of upwards
of forty years the Gardeners' Chronicle has been
a source of interest to you. May it long
continue to be so.

Waterproof Paper : W. W. We must decline to
recommend dealers, and you should either scan
our advertisement columns, or advertise your
needs.

Communications Rf.ceived. — O. Doiu, Paris. — C. C. H. —
Fischer de, Waldneim.— Lady H.— W. B.. Worksop.— W. M.
— W. W.— W. Norlin.— W. Totty.— Earl of Anneslev.—
C. T. L.— Viscountess H.—C. C. H.— H. G. H.— T. J. M.—
R. P. B.— J. Batters -S. Castle.— B. M.— T. M.— R. P. B.
—J. Gregory.— H- E- R — W. K.— T. Ryan.— R. ' D.—
J. F. MeL.— A. J. L— H. H. T.— H. Correvon.— A. F.
Sieveking.— E. Roiligas.— R. Kirk, M.D.— J. P. * Sons.—
.1. M.-J. C— F. Freeman Page.— H. O. E.-W. W.— S. C.

Specimens and Photooraphs Received with Thanks. —
Dr. Wilson.— J. Smith.— F. W., Steephill (next week).—
E. F. H.— W. M. G. — General Gillespie.— W. Goldring
(many thanks — anticipated).

IMPORTANT TO ADVERTISERS.— ''"' PV-OUAer tai

the satisfaction of announcing that tin- circulation of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
pHce of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle " circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreiun and Colonial Circulation, and that it is
•preserved for reference in all the principal Libraries.

January 28, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

49

THE

(iarclcncrs' d^hronictc

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 1899.

DUNS CASTLE.

AT the gardens .at Duns Castle, in Berwick-
shire, is to be seen a fine old tree of the
common Myrtle, which, on account of its great
age. and the story in connection with it, may
fairly claim to be the most remarkable Myrtle
in the country. The tree is planted in the
middle of the conservatory, the top of which it
long since reached, and although now 120 years
of age, its vigour is that of a youngster.

The following history of the tree is related on
a tablet: — "This Myrtle was a sprig in the
bouquet of the beautiful Miss Lucy Johnstone,
of Button Hall, worn at a ball given in her
honour about the year 1777-78. Mr. Lumsdaine,
of Blanerne, presented the plant to Mrs. Hay,
but there being no greenhouse here at the time,
it was reared at Kimmerghame till the year
1803, when it was transplanted here."

Conflicting opinions anent the authenticity of
this version of the plant's genesis are, however,
held by some students of the legendary lore of
Berwickshire, it being affirmed that in place of
the ball being given in honour of Miss Lucy
Johnstone, who was one of the beauties of her
time, the fair maid was not even honoured
with an invitation (she presumably not having
at the time "come out "), but that with the aid
and connivance of her old nurse she managed
to evade the maternal vigilance, and descended
to the ballroom, clad in simple white, with a
sprig of Myrtle in her bosom as her only
adornment. In any case the story is a pretty
one, and adds greatly to the interest of the
tres. History does not relate how the plant
came into the possession of Mr. Lumsdaine.

Kimmerghame House is but a short distance
from Blanerne and Duns Castle, and the plant
is thus connected with four of the principal
seats in Berwickshire ; and there are few
dwellers in the county who have not heard of
the Duns Castle Myrtle, and there are many
who, from sprigs of the tree, have reared plants
of their own. of whose origin they- speak with
pride.

After being removed to the newly- built
greenhouse or conservatory at Duns Castle, the
plant seem? to have thriven splendidly, and
soon taxed the resources of its somewhat limited
quarters, so that the branches had to be twisted
and coiled, the then lord of the manor having a
strong objection to the plant being cut ; and not
the least interesting circumstance connected
with the plant, from the visitor's point of
view, was the curious twisting and turning
of the thick limbs, which still continued to
flourish.

To enable the tree to expand further, the
house was eventually raised, and is now, in the
centre, some 30 feet in height. The limits of
spaoe were soon again filled, and clipping had to
be resorted to, although this was not carried out
further than was actually necessary until some
two years ago, when it was decided to severely
prune the tree, which had now become very

unshapely. It was, therefore, cut hard back,
nearly to the trunk, many branches and limbs
of considerable thickness being removed. After
the operation, it was regularly syringed with
tepid water to encourage it to break ; and it
responded in a most satisfactory manner, new
growth springing out from every part, until now
it is a pyramid of beautiful green, and will for
years continue an object of interest.

On the lawn in front of the conservatory in
which the plant is situated are three fine trees
of Araucaria imbricata, one of which — a female
tree — is a noble specimen in every way. It is
about 45 ft. in height, and is very symmetrical, its
lower branches sweeping the ground around,
and covering a circumference of 105 feet. It
has for the past few years fruited regularly,
and last autumn was carrying between twenty
and thirty cones. A fine batch of seedling
plants has been raised from seeds collected in
previous years. A photograph of the tree was
exhibited at the Conifer Conference of the
Royal Horticultural Society at Chiswick.

Besides the conservatory, there is at Duns
Castle a further range of glass, 300 feet long,
which is in capital repair, and which is given up
principally to the cultivation of fruit— Peaches,
Grapes, Tomatos, Melons, &c., being exceedingly
well grown. Of plants under glass, great atten-
tion is given to the cultivation of the Begonia,
and the entire side of one house is occupied by
these beautiful plants.

< hitside, the principal feature of the gardens
is the hardy fruit, and there was in the autumn
a very fine crop of Apples, although Pears were
somewhat light, while Plums were not above
average.

The Apples are principally pyramids on the
Paradise stock, in which Mr. Aikman, the chief
of the gardens, has great faith, and the health
and vigour of the trees, combined with the fine
crops they are carrying, are proof of the sound-
ness of his methods and the wisdom of his
theories. Many old orchard trees are also to
be seen, but these are being gradually removed
and replaced by younger trees of the most
approved varieties. Small fruits were last
year an enormous crop, Gooseberries especially
being here seen in quantity and quality such
as is seldom met with.

So far north there is, of course, always the
devastation of spring frosts to be dreaded
whilst the trees are in bloom, but this evil is
mitigated by the adoption of a glass coping
which projects some 2 feet along the top of the
wall. Attached to the front of this coping is
an iron rod, and when the trees are about to
burst into bloom, a similar rod is erected about
9 feet from the ground, and on these are
stretched on rings curtains of frigi-domo, which
are drawn regularly every night, and the trees
are thus shut off from all possible harm. The
curtains are again drawn back on the following
morning, and secured to upright posts, which
are erected at intervals for the purpose.

Vegetables of all sorts last season yielded
good crops, although the drought had to be
contended against, the gardens resting on a
gravelly subsoil.

There is no flower-garden proper at Duns
Castle— and, indeed, on an estate of so much
wild and natural beauty it would be almost an
impertinence to introduce it — but here and
there throughout the gardens are beds and
bordei-3 of all sorts of old-fashioned flowers, one
border in particular, over 100 yards long, and
filled with herbaceous plants, Roses, &c,
making a delightful feature.

Leaving the gardens for the Castle, the path

lies through the ancient park, in which are
many noble trees. It was to this ' ' Duns Park "
that Robert the Bruce, in the year 1318, com-
manded the Earl of Douglas and Dunbar to
repair and join Randolph, prior to an assault
on Berwick, and it was this same Thomas Ran-
dolph, Earl of Moray, who took so prominent a
part under Bruce in the War of Independence,
and who built the Castle in the year 1320, King
Robert having bestowed on him the lands and
town of Duns as a reward for his services. The
walls of this ancient structure are of enormous
thickness, and the place must have been one of
considerable strength in - those days. Duns
Castle was the headquarters of General Leslie
when the Covenanters lay encamped at Duns
Law in the year 1G39, and the bedroom which
he occupied is shown to this day.

Alterations and additions have from time to
time been made on the building, the latest of
which were effected by the late Colonel Hay,
who built at the angles of the old structure the
tall battlemented turrets which now form such
characteristic features of the edifice, added
a main doorway on the south side in a style to
correspond with the turrets, and converted the
original square windows into large lights of late
Gothic form.

The Castle contains many portraits and
pictures of great historic interest, as well as
most valuable relics connected with the Royal
House of Stuart. Chief among these latter are
a lock of Prince Charles Edward's hair, and a
draught-board once the property of the ill-
starred Mary Queen of Scots. The squares of
this board are of silver and gold alternately. But
of greater interest than either of these, perhaps,
is a document embodying the agreement known
as the Solemn League and Covenant, dear
to the heart of every patriotic Scotsman.
It was on the neighbouring hill — Duns Law — at
the foot of which the Castle stands, that the
document was signed, and it is said to be the
original one, though there is a doubt about it.
"The Covenanter's Stone" still marks the spot
where the bargain was sealed, and is a source of
unfailing interest, with its recollections of
General Leslie and the Covenanting Army of
24,01)0 men who here lay encamped in 1C13,
ready to do battle "For Christ's Crown and
Covenant.''

At the foot of Duns Law, and immediately
behind the castle, stretches the lake, locally
known as the "Hen Poo," a glimpse of the
extreme end of which is obtained in fig. 19.
This is a magnificent sheet of natural water,
stretching for three-quarters' of a mile, and con-
taining an area of about fifty acres. It is of
very pleasing and irregular outline, and contains
two islands, on one of which are trees of a con-
siderable size. In a natural expanse of water of
this .description, no attempt is made to artifi-
cially beautify, but Nature has been wonderfully
lavish, and round its sides are abundance of
Bullrushes, Spiraeas, Sedges, and a host of other
water-loving plants ; while in one spot is a
magnificent breadth of the white Water-Lily
(Nyniphrea alba), which, when in bloom, pre-
sents a most charming spectacle. With the
exception of the side of Duns Law, on which
sleek and thriving herds of cattle may
be seen grazing, the lake is wooded to the
water's edge ; and on the opposite side from the
Law rises abruptly from out the water a ci irre-
spondingly high hill known as the Witch's
Knowe, where, in days gone by, persons sus-
pected of witchcraft were wont to expiate their
supposed crimes by burning. A. A.
{To be continue 1.)

50

THE GAXDENERS' CHBONICLE.

[January 2«, 1899.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

CYPRIPEDIUM x HAYNALDO-BELLATULUM
(HAYNALDIANUM?; BELLATULUM).
A VERT singular, new, and pretty hybrid, pos-
sessing the desirable feature of being distinct
from any other. The scape bears but one flower,
though it is almost certain to bear more when
thoroughly matured and strong. The flower-stem
is covered with soft purple hairs ; the bract,
which is two-thirds of the length of the ovary, is
green, spotted with purple; the ovary greenish,
white with purplish down on the prominent
ridges. The upper sepal, which is 2J inches long,
and 2 inches broad, is yellowish-green over the
basal two-thirds of its area, the upper and mar-
ginal third being pure white ; the whole sur-
face, with the exception of a narrow white margin,
bearing irregularly dotted purple lines. The
petals, which have a peculiar wave or twist
in them, suggestive of the influence of C. Hay-
naldiamim, are 1 inch broad and 3 inches long,
distinctly decurved, creamy-white, with a strikiug
purple reticulation in spots and lines over their
whole surface. The lower sepal is half the size of
the upper one, greenish-white, with purple-dotted
lines. The lip, which has a peculiar lateral com-
pression, has the side-lobes folded one over the
other, both being closely shielded by the large
staminode, which is yellow, with a few purplish
lines towards the base. The colour of the lip is
v.ry pale yellow, the face being delicately tinged
and dotted with rose. The leaf resembles that of
C. Haynaldianum, but bears an obscure dark
green reticulation. It flowered for the first time
with Walter C. Clark, Esq., Orleans House,
Sefion Park, Liverpool, who kindly furnished the
material to enable the writer to describe it.
Jamt s O'Brii n.

MADEESFIELD COUET GARDENS.

It is interesting to find that, under the control
of the present Earl Beauchamp and his gardener,
Mr. Crump (whose portrait is given herewith),
this fine old place, near Great Malvern, lias
not only continued to worthily occupy its old
position amongst British gardens, but it has
greatly advanced. Lord Beauchamp is a great
lover of flowers, and for that reason has had large
masses of many descriptions of hardy things
planted in all sorts of places, hence in all direc-
tions there crop up big climbing, bulbous, and
ordinary perennials, beneath trees, amidst long
grass, in semi- woodlands — indeed, wherever it is
possible to find space, with some show of adapta-
bility or fitucss. There are, too, the usual mixed
hardy borders, also gardens solely of Roses and
of annuals, beautiful flowering or foliage shrubs
aud trees in all directions, a considerable range
of rockwork, not the least J prominent feature
on which is constituted by Cyclamens in their
season ; whilst on grass there is a broad ser-
pentine rivulet of Colchicums iu variety, the
large (_'. maximum being very prominent. Iu all
directions hardy bulbs have been planted, and the
grounds in the spring may be said to be full of
Daffodils of all descriptions, Squills, and other
bulbs. A very quaint feature of the large flower-
gardens fronting the mansion is its coloration,
which consists exclusively of orange, yellow, and
lemon shades. These allied hues are furnished by
all descriptions of plants that have adaptability for
the purpose. Such a flower garden is so widely dis-
similar to what is commonly seen in similar positions,
that it is difficult to criticise it, yet there is, in spite
of the oddity, a softness, and harmony iu the whole
that renders it far from unpleasing. Of course, it
would entail immense labour were it resolved to
I'ary the colours to buff, brown, blue, red, white,
&e., from year to year. There seems, however.
io be no such intention, and Mr. Crump is still on
the look-out for yellow-flowered plants that will
suit Earl Beauchamp's tastes, although as it is, he

seems to have almost everything yellow, or of
allied shades. In a new garden where mixed
colours rule, there was a small mass of the most
perfect single-flowered bedding Begonia I have
ever seen. It is there known as the French
Worthiana, and though of the same height, it is
much stiffer or erect in habit than is the common
Worthiana, aud the flowers are of double the size,
of a rich orange-scarlet, aud borne boldly in great
profusion. Every one who uses Begonias for
bedding should have this beautiful one. They
would not then plant the ungainly, large -flowered
ones again.

Conifers are very abundant here, especially
in the neighbourhood of the fine rockery, which
is one of Pulham's best productions. This is well
furnished, and the garishness so characteristic of
new rockwork has entirely disappeared. The
entire construction now looks quite natural. There
are intersecting the grounds two very fine avenues
of Conifers, each some quarter of a mile in length..
The trees composing these are now in the very
prime of life. One is of Abies nobilis glauca, the
trees averaging 50 feet in height, and perfectly
furnished throughout ; the habit is somewhat stiff,!

Jlli. W. CRU M r

(The Gardener at MadresBeld Court )

See p. 51.1

but the colour of the foliage, here almost blue,
gives to the tries a very marked aspect. Each tree
has lately received a top-dressing iu the shape of
a couple of cartloads of marl, which they seem to
like greatly, previous dressings having done great
good. At one eud of this avenue there runs at
right augles another of a more elegant Conifer,
Cedrus atlautica glauca. Some of these trees have
the true blue or glaucous tint of the variety richly
displayed, others less so, but the avenue is one of
great beauty, aud commands warm admiration. At
its extremity, towards the kitchen gardens is a yet
rather new semi-rock garden, which is fast becoming
furnished, aud will soou become of exceeding inte-
rest. Here plants are fully exposed to sunlight,
and many thrive that would hardly do so iu the
comparative shade of the rockery previously
mentioned.

Hardy Fruit is at Madresfield a very promi-
nent feature. It is evident that the reputation the
gardens enjoyed iu the days of Mr. Cox has not
suffered in any way iu the hands of his successor.
Fruit-trees are not only found iu remarkable abund-
ance, but are wonderfully well doue, and generally
carried capital crops. The walls within and with-

out the gardens are well clothed, and all ordi-
nary trees are in perfect condition. Pears are
specially good, and such varieties as Pitmaston
Duchess, Doyenne du Cornice (see fig. 16, p. 51),
Beurre Boussoch, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre Super -
fiu, Beurre Diel, Williams' Bon Chretien, Jose-
phine de Malines, here regarded as the best late
Pear, and keeping well till February, were, with
many others, finely cropped, having noble fruits.
A long series of cordon Pears, planted on either
side of the central garden-walk, have had three
shoots or branches run off laterally on either side,
and these are trained along wires strained tightly
overhead, so that the path becomes literally a
Pear-bower some 400 feet long. Between each of
these side cordons there is a large pyramid or bush-
tree. From this walk very fine crops are obtained.
Some old espalier Apple-trees merit notice, notably
several Kibston Pippins. These are about 4} feet
in height, are in superb health, and were carrying
wonderfully fine fruits. There is an espalier of Lord
Derby, 4J feet high, with four horizontal branches
on either side, and the entire tree is 42 feet long
(see fig. 18, p. 53). This was carrying a grand crop
of superb fruits, and indicates in a marked way the
value of espalier training iu Apple culture. These
are, however, only the few out of many. Cox's
Orange Pippin was giving a splendid crop on
double oblique cordons. These have been six years
plauted, each stem is about 9 feet long. There are
some 30 feet run of these cordons, planted 2£ feet
apart. The fruits were remarkably fine, quite per-
fect samples. These trees were originally budded
on to seedling stocks obtained from pips of the cider
fruits. Also similarly worked and fruiting well were
Claygate Pearmain, Stunner Pippin, Tyler's Kernel,
and others. Apples, Tears, and Plums, are in great
plenty in outer gardens and orchards, and there is
iu one place a large trial orchard, the trees being
all of bush form, and planted rather close. Here
varieties are tested for fitness for general estate
as well as for home culture.

The Estate Nursery.

A remarkable feature is the fruit nursery. Lord
Beauchamp, with thoughtfulness and regard for his
tenants' interests, has had raised under the gar-
dener's care yearly about 2000 trees ; that is, at least,
the number annually worked, chiefly by budding.
The nursery, which is changed from one area to
another every two or three years, vegetables alter-
nating, has at the present moment several thousands
of trees in it, all first-class stuff. The maiden
growths on Apples, Pears, Plums, and Cherries
would do credit to any nursery in the kingdom, as
would also the appearauce of the entire stock. Good
trees are sent out to tenants yearly, on application,
and under such conditions no farm or garden need
be otherwise than well stocked. All the best
varieties found suitable for the locality are grown.
Mr. Crump raises his own stocks ; aud all seedlings
when lifted after the first year for plautiug up in
lines for budding later, have the long tap-root
carefully preserved, not cut off or shortened, but
bent horizontally, and in the process of plautiug
always towards the front. The result is, he
states, that this tap throws out numerous fibres,
and these during the seasou form such mats of
l'oots, that the trees when lifted from behind
literally stand alone. That is very much more
than can be said of fruit-trees generally when
young.

Cordon Currant* and Gooseberries are a very
interesting feature iu the kitchen-gardens ; Goose-
berries are trained as treble cordons on a single win'
trellis, aud as quadruple cordons ou a double wire
trellis. This latter is of the greater iuterest, as being
the more novel. The bushes are planted 18 inches
apart in one row ; each bush has four stems. These
are trained up in pairs ou either side, so that, reach-
ing a height of about G feet, they are at the top
20 inches apart, each side slanting outwards.
Originally each stem was tied up to sticks. There
are but three wires on either side, and the top ones
are nearly 7 feet high, to carry the nets which

Janbarv 28, 1899.]

THE GAB DENE US' CHRONICLE.

51

-~- ; —

* ;

FlG. 1,6. \ FAN-TRAINED TREE OF DoYF.WI HI COMICS PEAR, MADRESFIELD IMICI.

is: i I'. 50.)

euclose all the quarter. This double cordon of
(Gooseberries includes dessert varieties only. The
adjoining one that is single, is composed of the
Lancashire show varieties. Next come wire trellis-
trained Raspberries, one row being double-wired as
for the Gooseberries. This latter row gives far
more fruit from the same space than is given by
single-wired trellises. Red and White Currants are
trained as cordons by wire also. The former,
planted -2i feet apart, each have three stems, com-
pletely furnished with spurs, to the full height of
6 feet. The stems slant somewhat obliquely. The
produce in fruit is enormous, and it is wonderfully
Hue and clean. Birds do not seem to trouble either
whites or reds so grown.

There are, of course, large numbers of houses
devoted to plant and fruit-culture, but these have
for me little of interest compared with what is
found outside in hardy fruit-culture at Madresfield
( 'ourt. September, 1898.

William Crump,

the highly esteemed gardener at Madresfield
Court, was born at Pontesbury, Salop, in the
year 1843. He must have been born a gardener
(not bred), for not one of his friends or relations
were ever engaged in matters horticultural. From
earliest childhood he spent nearly all his time in
his parents' small garden amongst the flowers,
planting one day, and taking up the next "to
see if they grew." One of his earliest experiences
was the raising of a healthy sapling Oak from
on Acorn, but owing to being planted too near
an important window, it proved his hist disappoint-
ment. After overcoming the objections of his
friends, young Crump was duly apprenticed, and
went through all the necessary probationship, until
the year 1865, when he took charge of the glass
department at Powis Castle, Welshpool, under the
late Mr. G. Brown, a good all-round Scotch gar-
dener of the old school. Carpet - bedding then
became fashionable, and in his thirst for practical
knowledge Crump took an unusual step, viz., an
Irishman's rise, involving a reduction of wages, but
which proved a very wise step. He took the
general foreman's place, under the late Mr. Wild-
smith, at Heckfield Place, Hants — a place from
which have proceeded so many gardeners now hold-
ing leading positions. After staying there three
years, he became head gardener to P. Harris, Esq f
The Grange, Lamberhurst, Kent, a new place,
which did not reach the anticipations formed of itt
After four years' service there, he went to Blen-
heim Palace, Woodstock — a place that required
much tact to sustain. Much exhibiting was done
at the lioyal Horticultural Society, South Ken-
sington (then in its greatest prosperity), Crystal
Palace, Royal Botanic, Manchester, Oxford, aud
other shows ; Silver Cups and Medals being awarded,
including the blue riband at the International
Potato Show, Crystal Palace, and, what was most
appreciated of all, Messrs. Webber's packing prize,
twice in succession. Blenheim Orange Melon,
which still holds its own, was raised, exhibited,
and received First-class Certificate, R.H.S., during
the seven years of his tenure of office as head gar-
dener. In the year 1883 he removed to Madresfield
( 'ourt gardens, in succession to the late Mr. W.
Cox. The place is noted for its excellent soil for
fruit growing, which always had a special attrac-
tion for Mr. Crump. Large numbers of trees are
produced annually for tenants, and distributed
gratuitously. There is also an interesting experi-
mental plot, where some 2.50 varieties of Apples,
80 of Pears, and 50 of Plums are on trial. One
of the Victorian Medals of Honour was awarded
to Mr. Crump in 1897. Mr. Crump has done
excellent service in working up an efficient auxiliary
of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution at
Worcester, and has been the means of adding many
annual subscribers, and £300 in cash in three years.
Oh, that gardeners in other counties would do like-
wise ! — it only requires the will.

Fig. 17. — ax arcade of pears madresfield court
(see p. 50./

GLOXINIAS.

Having been unusually successful in the culti-
vation of these beautiful plants, it may prove
of use to some of our readers if I describe my
methods of cultivation. It is at this season
that the foundation of a good summer display
is laid. Some years ago the Gloxinia was con«

•52

THE GABDENEBS' CHB0N1CLE.

[January 28, 1S09.

sidered a somewhat troublesome plant to grow,
chiefly, I believe, on account of the tedious processof
propagation from leaves, &c. ; whereas now, seed is
chiefly relied upon, and Gloxinias can be made to
produce their flowers within six months of sowing
the seed. If the seed be of the best strain, the
plants will possess fine foliage and lovely blossoms.
The first sowing should be made in the present
month in pots filled to within half-an-inch of the
rim with a compost consisting of two parts loam,
one part each of leaf-mould and silver-sand, which
should be made fairly firm by hand-pressure. The
seed, being very small, requires care in the sowing,
so that it may be evenly distributed. It must be
very slightly covered with fine soil or sand. The pots
should then be well watered, and, if possible, they
should be plunged in bottom-heat of 65° to 70°, and
each should be covered with a sheet of glass. The
water should be applied with the finest rose, aud in
a slow, gentle manner, so as not to float the seeds
above the soil. In a week or ten days the seed-
lings will begin to appear, when the glass should
be tilted slightly, the amount of air being gradually
increased, so as to permit the seedlings to gain
strength. It is advisable to prick them off into a
pan as soon as it is possible to handle them, as to
allow them to get drawn is to spoil them. The soil
in the pricking-off pans should contain rather more
loam than that in the seed-pans. The plants should
at all times be carefully shaded from the sun, and
a genial, humid atmosphere provided, the tempera-
ture being kept at about 70°. When the plants
have made three or four leaves, they should be
potted-off singly into small 60's, and in doing this the
lower leaves should rest on the mould. The com-
post for this potting aud the last one should con-
sist of sound turfy loam two parts, decayed manure
one part, and sand one part. The drainage of the
pots must be thorough, Gloxinias taking a large
quantity of water when growing freely. A sprink-
ling of the leaves on bright days is beneficial to the
plants up till the time the flower-buds show colour.
When the first pots get fairly filled with roots, the
plant should be shifted into 48's, or if extra fine
specimens are desired, then into 32's. When well
established in this size of pot, liquid manure is of
use in giving greater substance to the leaves and
flowers ; and it may be applied weekly, once or
twice. A small quantity of Clay's Fertiliser
sprinkled on the soil is a good form of manure.
Care should, however, be taken not to let any of
the manure touch the foliage, or spots may appear
thereon. When the flower-buds begin to exhibit
colour, it is time to remove the plants to a house
with a cooler, drier atmosphere, damp injuring the
flowers. For a succession, seeds may be sown in
February and March. After flowering, the foliage
should be induced to wither and drop off by
gradually withholding water until they are quite
dried off, when they may b» placed, with the pots
lying on their sides, under the stige in a cool
greenhouse till they are again started into growth
the next year. To do this the tubers should be
shaken free from all the soil, aud placed in boxes
embedded in cocoa-uut fibre refuse, and exposed to
a moist heat in quantity according to requirements.
When growth is well advanced, the tubers may be
potted into 4S's and 32:s as the size of the tuber
may require, and treated as they were the previous
year. C. BticMand, F.U.U.S., Datchet.

HKRHAGEOUS AND
PEONIES.

TREE

Oxe of the best kuown P;eonies is P. officinalis.
Iu the dormant state this variety shows the eyes
above its thick aud fleshy roots, the foliage dyino-
down to the ground every season at the approach
of wiuter. It is found in greatest profusion in the
Orient, Japau, and China, aud while also found ia
various districts of Europe and North America, the
great range of colour and form is only found in
the Far East. There are found the single sorts
resembling the Lotus- flower, a set of silken petals

surrounding a corolla of rich yellow stamens. The
colours of the flowers embrace pure white, delicate
rose, rich pink, lilac, soft and rich ; deep crimson,
maroon, variegated, pale blush. Then we find the
semi-double kinds, with petals whorled, fringed,
slashed or smooth, rivalling in richness of colour
and variegation the single sorts. The full double
kind is often found with petals oddly cut and high
centres, recalling the richness of the double
Poppies. A beautiful novelty in this class is a
velvety blood-red with odd white splashes, really a
royal blossom.

Propagation is effected by division of the roots,
which, however, should not be done too often, as it
weakens growth.

Another well-known Pasony is P. Moutan, or the
tree Pseony. This is a shrubby plant, grafted on
the roots of P. officinalis. The grafting is best
effected in the month of August. The flowers of
this class, with proper treatment, attain immense
dimensions, flowers of 10 to 12 inches and over
being common. The range of colouring is as rich,
if not more so, than in the herbaceous sorts. Over
fifty distinct and beautiful kinds are now cultivated
iu Japan for export. The colours are pure white,
white shaded lilac or rose, scarlet aud rose shading,
brilliant carmine, carmine with white edges, pink
with lilac edges, maroon, velvety lilac, deep purple,
rich rose ; the flowers being single, semi-double,
aud double, with crimped, smooth, aud serrated
petals. The P. Moutau attains its highest perfec-
tion in Japan, where its cultivation amounts to a
regular worship. For the grand exhibitions held
yearly, a gardener will devote months of patient
labour and care to this flower. Each separate
plant is placed under a straw-thatch, and given
proper nourishment, sunlight and shade, and the
result — well, it beggars description. I wish my
friends could follow me to the great Poeony-show
held yearly by the gardeners iu Yokohama. Benches
are staged upon benches, and upon these are
exhibited these gorgeous flowering-plants iu pots.
Such size, such glowing colours, and such skill in
blending the colour-masses in preparing the exhibi-
tion ! The whole show is held in a loug building
erected of Bamboo - poles, and sheltered with
Bainboo-mats — the great building material of the
Orieut.

All through the day, and far into the night, when
the whole is illuminated with gay lanterns anil
torches, the place is througed with the flower-
loving people, and every Europeau inhabitant of
Yokohama is sure to visit the exhibition. Tea, the
national beverage, is served to the visitors by
smiling little Japauese maidens ; while the men
drink to each other solemnly, the stronger Sake, a
native spirit prepared from Rice.

Pasonies need but little care. Planting iu the
open ground can be done either late in " fall " or
early in spring. They require a deep rich soil,
well trenched, with old rotten manure well incor-
porated. A top-dressing of mauure is beneficial.
A partially-sheltered position is desirable. As a
foreground to large shrubberies, or in a wide border,
or in beds by themselves, they form a beautiful
feature in a gardcu. In winter, in exposed locali-
ties, they should be protected by a litter of straw,
brush, or mats.

The florists' harvest, however, lies iu forcing
these royal blooms in pots for Easter. To attain
the best results, the dormant plants should bo
potted, the roots as tightly as possible wedged in
the pots, which should be provided with good
drainage. The soil should consist of well-rotted
old sod and old manure, filling well every iuter-
stice. Kept at first in a temperature of 45° to
50'', the plant can, as the leaf-buds swell, be
brought into a slightly higher atmosphere. At no
time must a Pseony be brought into too high a
temperature, as this causes the buds to wilt and
dwindle. As soon as the colour shows, liberal
doses of manure-water can be giveu ; iu fact, the
treatment giveu the Chrysanthemum to attain the
best results answers marvellously well for the
Pajouy. Also the petals of Paxmy flowers, being
very delicate, they should be hardened off before

being brought to market. Plants of Pa:onies
which have been forced one year had better be
planted in the open ground in "fall," and allowed
to rest a season or two.

These royal plauts are sure to fiud a ready sale
by those who look for something out of the beaten
routine in Easter-flowering plants. H. H. Berger oj
New York, in " The Florists' Exchange."

The Rosary.

NEW ROSES of 1896, 1897, and 189S.

I do not propose to discuss more thau a dozeu
of the varieties introduced to commerce during the
last three seasons. We naturally know more of
the 1896 Roses thau others of subsequent date, aud
there are several really first-class varieties that
were introduced during that year. I have fourteeu
upon my list, but will select the six most distinct.
Antoine Rivoire is a variety the result of crossing
Dr. Grill and Lady Mary Fitzwilliam. It is a large
and full almost Camellia-shaped flower, and iu
colour is clear flesh-piuk with a yellow base, occa-
sionally Hushed with carmine. Iu this Rose we
have the free-growing and flowering habit of Dr.
Grill, with the erect habit and massive flowers of
Lady Mary Fitzwilliam ; it is a grand Rose for cul-
tivation in pots, and can scarcely be put iu the
wrong position. Ellen Drew is a sport from
Duchesse de Moray, and is an exact counterpart of
that variety, except that it is clear silverj-pink in
colour. Lawrence Allen is rather lighter iu shade
than Baroness Rothschild, aud considerably larger
and more full ; it has a most delicious perfume.
Muriel Grahame ueeds no further comment than to
mention that it is a sport from Catherine Mermet,
pale blush-white in colour, and even more free than
its parent. Queen Mab is not a good grower, but
it is free - flowering, and a useful bedding Rose ;
the flower is deep apricot in colour, tinged with
metallic - red and coppery - salmon. Souvenir do
Catherine Guillot is one of the most distinct Roses
grown ; it is very free, being almost always in
flower. The foliage is a deep purple and copper-
red, and the buds are long, and produced in trusses.
Its colour is difficult to d3scri.be, having coppery-
red, salmon, crimson, and yellow all mingled
together ; it is quite one of the best garden and
decorative Roses we have.

Out of the twenty varieties upon my list for
1897, I consider the two following most distinct :
Duchesse Marie of Ratibor, a cross betweeu Dr.
Grill and Kaissriu Augusta Victoria. Bo th of the
parents grow and flower freely, aud the offspring
retains the parents' characteristic*. The flowers
are large and well formed, and, like those of K. A.
Victoria, they last well. The colour is a clear
creamy - yellow, with a reddish -crimson ceutre.
Emanuel Geibel is a decided improvement upon
Madame Falcot. The colour is even darker thau iu
that old favourite, while the bud is longer, aud
develops into a flower full enough for exhibition.

There are fourteen in my list for 1898, and four
of them deserve special notice. Beryl affords a
golden-yellow shade found in no other Ro3e. The
buds are long, and though not very full, the flower
keeps well, and it is a delightful button-hole Rose.
It is a very free grower, exceptionally sweet-sconted,
and is sure to be most popular as a variety for bed-
ding and forcing. Grand Due Ernest Ludwig is a
seedling from Marechal Niel aud General Jacque-
minot, retaining the good qualities of both its
iparents. The plant is of climbing habit, and the
itlowers are as large aud full as those of Marechal
Jfiel, but of the deep Bhade of crimson seen in
"General Jacqueminot. It is a decided acquisition
to the climbing varieties, aud likely to be much
grown in connection with its deep yellow parent.
Jvillaruey has long flower-buds, of good form, is
soft flesh-salmon and pink in colour, very distinct,
and free. Purity makes a grand pillar Rose, is an
exceptionally free and early bloomer, and one of
the purest whites we have. A. P.

Janpakv 28, 1899.]

THE GAB DENE BS' CHRONICLE.

53

Reliable Roses.
The present season is not very favourable for
planting Eoses — in Scotland at least — by reason of
the prevalence of excessive rains. Those culti-
vators who have unwisely delayed this important
work till the month of January, will be begin-
uing by this time to regret their procrastination.
Doubtless hybrid perpetuals and hybrid Teas cau
be planted up to the end of February, under
favourable conditions, with comparative safety ;
but, as a general rule, it is much wiser to plant
them on the confines of November, before the
season of floods has fairly set in. At present, the
weather is a series of unsuccessful attempts at frost,
followed invariably by deluges of rain. As those
Roses are the most valuable, in this exacting
climate, which thrive best under such conditions as
these, I have pleasure in recommending to my

Stewart, and Mrs. Sharman Crawford, raised by
the Messrs. Dickson of Newtownards, whose latest
productions, such as Ardsrover, Meta, Beryl, Kil-
larney, and Countess of Caledon, are likely to
sustain their great reputation. Also much to be
commended, after long experience of their capa-
bilities, are Pride of Waltham, Spenser, Clio, and
Salamander, Prince Arthur, a distinguished deri-
vative from General Jacqueminot, Susauue-Marie
Rodocanachi, au effective contrast in colour to
these ; Sir Rowland Hill, and Reynolds Hole.
Perhaps I should mention, as a warning to culti-
vators, that the variety last meutioued is not
always to be relied upon, as, unlike the majority of
its dark crimson contemporaries, it is easily affected
by atmospheric influences. Iu this special respect
it much resembles Abel Carriers, and the greatly
over-estimated Prince Camille de Rohau.

FlU. IS. — AN ESPALIER APPLE-TREE AT MAl'li LSI ILLI ' I'lU'UT.
(SEE P. 50.)

readers the varieties which have, during the last
dscade, beeu most enduring and successful here.

Among hybrid perpetuals, some of the most
reliable are Alfred Colomb, A. K. Williams, Beauty
of Waltham, Captain Hayward, a very brightly-
coloured, free-flowering variety, of recent origi-
nation, larger than Mr. Cranston's Crimson
Badder, and equally fragrant, but not so full ;
Charles Lefebvre, whose popularity knows no
diminution either with exhibitors or ordinary culti-
vators ; Cheshunt Scarlet, a precious gardeu Rose ;
Crown Prince, Duchess of Bedford, Duke of Edin-
burgh, aud Duke of Wellington, all of which may
be described as indispensable. Almost as much
may bj said of General Jacqueminot, from which
many of the grandest of our dark crimson Roses
have baen derived ; Margaret Dickson, almost pure
white, aud very commanding ; Heleu Keller, a
most beautiful pink Rose, of perfect formation ;
Earl of Duffeiin, Jeaunie Dickson, Lady Heleu

As a general rule it is advisable, for the
sake of root-formation, to transplant hybrid per-
petuals once in rive years. I find they are, in
most instances greatly benefited, botli as regards
vigorous growth and floral productiveness, by a
chauge of soil.

The most easily cultivated and most profitable
of all Roses to the ordinary cultivator, are the
hybrid Teas. Of these the finest are the fragrant
La France, and her beautiful variations, Augustine
Guinoisseau aud Duchess of Albany ; Caroline Tes-
tout, invariably large aud imposing in aspect, whose
origin has not been very clearly ascertained ; Kai-
serin Augusta Victoria, a German Rose of exquisite
primrose-hue ; Viscountess Folkestone, of charming
fragrance and marvellous floriferousness ; Grace
Darling, another very fine production of the late
Heury Bennett ; Mrs. W. J. Grant aud Marquis
Litta, both of them recent and great acquisitions :
White Lady, the handsome daughter of Lady Mary

Fitzwilliam ; Bardon Job and Gustave Regis, of
highly effective and strongly contrasted hues ; and
those universal favourites, Clara Watson and Gloire
Lyonnaise.

China and Polyautha Roses cau always be
depended upon. They seldom fail. More capri-
cious are the somewhat delicate Noisettes, with a
few notable exceptions, such as Aimee Vibert and
Caroline Kuster. The greater number of the Tea
Roses are now marvellously hardy in their nature,
and during the winter require little protection, aud
the following varieties can be planted as late as the
end of February, with every hope of success, viz. :
Souvenir d'uu Ami and Souvenir de S. A. Prince ;
Catherine Mermet and The Bride, both of which
are of vigorous constitution ; Gloire de Dijon, aud
its more attractive descendants, Bouquet d'Or, and
Belle Lyonnaise; Hon. Edith Gifford, Madame
Lambard, which flowers luxuriantly, early and
late ; Madame Hoste, Madame Bravy, and Marie
Van Houtte; the artistically-tinted Madame de
Watteville ; Anna Olivier, a profuse and constant
bloomer ; Madame Charles ; Medea, a superb lemon-
coloured variety ; Enchantress, Princess Vera,

Innocente Pirola, and Perle des Jardins. Pre-
eminent among reliable climbing Roses are William

Allen Richardson, LTdeal, Turner's Crimsou Ram-
bler, Bouquet d'Or, Climbing Niphetos, Reine
Marie Henriette, and Madame Berard. David A'.

Williamson.

NOVELTIES OF 1898.

(Conrhiflrd from p. 84.)

The following novelties and rare plants were
illustrated in the Gardener*' Chronicle in 1S98 (for
Orchids, see ante, p. 19) : —

Alocasia Wavriniana, April '23, p. 243.

Althea x Primrose Gem, August 13, p. 115.

Amaryllis Belladonna, Kew variety, October 29,
p. 315.

Anthurium crystallinum illustre, December 10,
p. 417.

Adiantum Hemsleyanum, Supplement, May 28.

Asplenium Mayi, June 18, p. 371.

Asplenium nidus multilobulum, January 8, p. 21.

Acalypha GodsefBana, April 23, p. 242.

Acalypha hispida (= Sanderi), April 23, p. 248.

Auricula Abbe Lizst, May 7, p. 285.

Carnation Queen of the Yellows, August 13,
p. 125.

C'alochortus Purdiei, Juno 25, p. 395.

Campanula mirabilis, July 9, p. 33.

Ceratolobus Micbolitzianus, April 23, p. 251.

Chrysanthemum Golden Shower, December 3
p. 405.

Chrysauthemum R. Hooper Pearson, November
19, p. 369.

Chrysanthemum What Ho, December 3, p. 401,

Chrysanthemum nipponicum, Nov. 12, p. ,349.

Dahlia Fantasy, September 24, p. 239.

Davallia fijiensis effusa, May 28, p. 323.

Deutzia corymbiflora, October 8, p. 267.

Dracaena Bromfieldi, Supplement, April 23.

Furcrrea Watsoniaua, April 23, p. 243.

Geonoma Pynrertiana, April 30, p. 258.

Galanthus cilioicus, February 5, p. 79.

Gymnogramma chrysophylla grandicepa, Juue 18,
p. 373.

Hyacinthus azureus var. giganteus, September 10
p. 191.

Hypoxis longifolia, September 3, p. 177.

Keatia Kersteniana, November 21). p. 391.

Kasmpferia Etheke, February 12, p. 94.

Lachenalia pendula Aureliana, April 2, p. 195,

Leea sambucina var., April 23, p. 245.

Ligustrum Walkeri, October 15, p. 282.

Liliura rubellum, May 28, p. 335.

Lobelia Rivoirei, September 24, p. 233.

Lonieera Hildebrandiana. September 17, p. 219.

Linospadix Petrickiana, October 22, p. 299.

Narcissus Lady Margaret Boscawen, May 7.
p. 275.

Nepenthes ventriiosa, June IS, p. 379.

Passiflora im Thurnii, Mast. sp. n., May 21,
p. 307.

54

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 28, 1899

Panax Mastersianum, April 23, 242.

Pandanus Sanderi, Supplement, April 23.

Polypodium grande nigrescens, November 19,
p. 362.

Pteris serrulata gracilis inulticeps, June 18,
p. 375.

Pteris cretica Summersii, June 18, p. 370.

Ptychosperma Warleti, April 23, p. 244.

Ptychosperma Sanderi, December 17, p. 435.

Platycerium angolense, March 12, p. 155.

Primrose Evelyn Arkwright. May 7, p. 277.

Phlebodium Mayi, Supplement, May 28.

Pelargonium Spotted Beauty, June 4, p. 349,

Bestio F. W. Moore, April 23, p. 251.

Bose Dawn, Supplement, July 23.

Bose Milton, Supplement, July 30.

Bose Enchantress, July 30, p. 89.

Bose Edith Turner, Supplement, August 6.

Bose Psyche, Supplement, May 7.

Veronica Dieffenbachi, August 27, p. 155.

Veronica Lindsayi, November 5, p. 331.

Colonial Notes.

— > -
WEST INDIES.

We have received from Dr. Morris, the Imperial
Commissioner of Agriculture, some details of the
means he is taking to organise his department.
The following is a list of representatives who were
invited to attend the first agricultural conference
held at Barbados on January 7 and 9, 1899 :—

Jamaica. — The Director of Public Gardens and
Plantations (William Fawcett, Esq., B.Sc, F.L.S.);
the Government and Agricultural Chemist (Francis
Watts, Esq., F.l.C, F.C.S.); the Principal of
University College, Kingston (Bev. William Simms.
M.A.).

British Guiana. — The Government Botanist and
Superintendent of the Botanic Gardens (C. S. Jen-
man, Esq., F.L.S.); the Government Analyst and
Professor of Chemistry (Professor J. B. Harrison,
M.A., F.l.C, F.C.S.); the Principal of Queen's
College (J. A. Potbury, Esq., M.A.); Agricultural
and Technical Chemist, Plantation Diamond (Wil-
liam Douglas, Esq., F.l.C, F.C.S.); Agricultural
and Technical Chemist to the New Colonial Com-
pany, Ltd. (Frederic J. Scard, Esq., F.l.C, F.C.S.).

Trinidad. — The Superintendent of the Boyal
Botanic Gardens (J. H. Hart, Esq., F.L.S.);
Government Analyst and Professor of Chemistry
(Professor P. Carmody, F.l.C, F.C.S.) ; the In-
spector of Schools (R. Gervase Bushe, Esq., M.A.) ;
the Principal of Queen's Royal College, (W.
Burslem, Esq., M.A.) ; the Principal of the College
of the Immaculate Conception (Rev. W. Caroll).

27k Windward Islands. The Curator, Botanic
Station, Grenada (W. E. Broadway, Esq.); the
Curator, Botanic Station, St. Vincent (Henry
Powell, Esq. ) ; the Curator, Botanic Station, St.
Lucia (J. C. Moore, Esq. ) ; the Inspector of Schools,
St. Lucia (F. E. Bundy, Esq.).

Tin' Leeward Islands. — The Inspector of Schools
for the Leeward Islands (F. H. Watkins, Esq.);
Dr. H. A. Alford Nicholls, C.M.G., M.D., F.L.S.,
&c, author of Tropical Agriculture; the Curator,
Botanic Station, Domiuica (Joseph Jones, Esq.);
the Curator, Botanic Statiou, St. Kitts-Nevis
(William Lunt, Esq.).

Barbados. — The Island Professor of Chemistry in
chemical charge of Sugar-cane Experiments (Pro-
fessor J. P. d'Albuquerque, M.A., F.l.C, F.C.S.) ;
the Agricultural Superintendent of Sugar-cane
Experiments (J. R. Bovell, Esq., F.L.S., F.C.S.) ;
the actiug Chairman of the Education Board (the
Hon. W. H. Greaves, Q.C) ; the Principal of
Codrington College (the Rev. Canon Bindley, M.A.,
B,D. ; the Head Master of Harrison College (Horace
D.'ightou, Esq., M.A., F.R.A.S.) ; the Inspector of
Sihools (Rev. J. E. Reece, M.A.).

The proceedings at the Conference were to con-
sist of the reading of brief and well-digested papers,
followed by discussion on subjects of immediate
interest, the object being to secure common action
in ripening questions of great importance to
the West Iudies. It is desirable, for instance, to
arrange for a rapid and economic interchange of
seeds and plants between the various botanic
centres, to discuss the cultural and chemical expe-
riments to be undertaken during the next few

years to improve the saccharine contents of the
Sugar-cane, and to sketch the lines on which it
may be possible to establish the scientific teaching
of agriculture in colleges and schools. Other sub-
jects for discussion are the means to be adopted for
securing a more skilful treatment of the soil and
the use of manures, a selection of the most suitable
economic plants for cultivation in various parts of
the West Indies, the establishment of school-
gardens, securing effective means for training boys
in agricultural pursuits, and the desirability of
concerted action to prevent the too rapid spread of
fungoid and insect pests.

The Week's Work.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strugnell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

The Muscat Vinery. — Muscat Vines require a
long season of growth, and those cultivators who
require ripe fruit at the end of the mouth of July,
or early in August, should now make preparations
for starting the vinery. Usually, Muscats have a
vinery almost, or entirely, devoted to them, and in
most cases the vinery has an inside border. This
being the case, the usual course of cleaning the roof,
woodwork, and glass, should be thoroughly done,
and the walls lime- washed with newly-slaked lime,
to which may be added a little soot and flowers-of-
sulphur. The treatment of the Vines themselves
will depend on their condition : if insects have been
troublesome during the past year, they will need to
be freed of all the loose outer-bark, using a blunt
knife in doing so, and cutting the stem-roots oft'.
The clearing away of the bark deprives insects of
their hiding-places, and facilitates the coating of
the Vines with a mixture adapted to the case. If
mealy-bug infests them, gas-tar and clay, reduced
to paint-like consistency, is the best kind of mix-
ture, using half-a-pint of tar to a bucketful of clay
and water. Though it is a disagreeable preparation
to apply, every part of the rods, except the actual
buds, should be carefully coated with it, which
will soon eradicate mealy-bug, provided the house
is otherwise well cleansed. Sulphur and clay
makes a good basis for red-spider, thrips, or scale-
insects. To this mixture may be added with
advantage Gishurst Compound - soap, Fir-tree oil,
or sulphide of potassium, iu quantity recommended
in each by the vendors. The borders should after-
wards be lightly pointed up, and as much
of the old soil as can conveniently be shovelled up
should be taken away, before any new soil is
brought in. Muscats delight in heavy soil, kept
in a porous state by ample quantities of lime-
rubble, old plaster, whether used in extensions of
the original border, or as a top-dressing ; wood-
ashes, as affording potash and charcoal, as tending
to keep the soil open, and to retaiu moisture, and in
decay furnishing carbonic acid, by being combined
with oxygen. These substances need only to be
mixed with the new soil in small quantity. A
sprinkling of the artificial manures recommended
for Vines may be sprinkled on the border pre-
viously, and covered with soil ; or the same amount
may be well mixed in the compost-heap by turning
it over several times. If the border is found upon
examination iu several parts to be dry, it should be
moistened to its full depth with tepid water, but
at this early date no more than this should lie
done. A mulch of fresh stable-litter will tend to
prevent a too rapid evaporation of moisture, and
reduce the need for repeated applications of water
for some time. Having carried out these details,
the vinery may be closed, though fire-heat
may remain iu abeyance for a few days afterwards,
and then only be applied to raise the temperature
a few degrees. If available, a bed of fermenting
leaves and stable-litter would supply the requisite
degree of warmth for a time without making use of
the apparatus ; removing it, however, when leaf-
growth has taken place, the exhalations from
manure sometimes having an unfavourable effect on
tender foliage. Bend the rods of young Vines,
these sometimes breaking irregularly ; and in all
cases, it is well to allow the ends of the rods to hang
lower than their usual position. Vines that are
growing solely in outside borders, or those having
access to outside ones, should be provided with a
warm covering, which must be replenished with hot
manure as it cools. The warmth iu such coverings
can be maintained for a long time if shutters, lights,
or tarred-felt be used over them. An outside

border may be top-dressed similarly to an inside
one. In cases where new turf has recently been
added to the surface, its removal on outside borders
is not advised now, as it does not so soou become
sour and exhausted as is the case indoors.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Odontoglossum Edwardi. — This species will pro-
bably require attention at this season, as new roots
will be emerging from the partially-developed
young growths. If the plants have sufficient root-
space, and the drainage is ascertained to be iu good
condition, top-dressing with equal parts of til nuns
peat and sphagnum-moss only will be needed, alter
having picked out a portion of the old materials ;
on the contrary, if the drainage is imperfect, aud
the compost sour, carefully remove the plant from
its receptacle, pick out the whole. of the material
about the roots which is not attached to growing
roots, remove all decayed roots, and repot in a clean,
suitably-sized Orchid-pot, iu which the drainage
should occupy about two-thirds of the depth.
Afford water iu sufficient quantity to moisten the
materials until the roots have penetrated them.
This species may be stood at the warmest part of
the cool-house.

Oncidiums. — Among other Orchids that may need
attention are 0. macrauthum, 0. undulatum, O.
Leopoldi, 0. zebriuum, aud others of the same
type. A large proportion of moss should be used
for them, the roots rambling readily in living
sphagnum-moss, and a very moist, cool position in
the Odontoglossum-house should lie given them.
The same rule as regards water should lie observed
as for Odoutoglossums, but after the roots have
made good progress abundance will be needed.

Miltonia vexi/laria is now in an advanced stage of
growth, aud watchfulness ou the part of the culti-
vator will be needed to ease with the budding-
knife all leaves whose edges are stuck together.
The plants should be afforded full light, aud be
kept on the dry side all through the winter months,
or weak, sickly growth will result, and, before the
flower-spikes show, the black spot would appear.
Afford light fumigations frequently as a preventative
of thrips. Plants of Miltonia Clowesii growing in
the Cattleya-house are now making roots, ami if
new materials are needed, the present is a good
time to afford them. From the time the flower-
spikes were cut, our plants of this species have
been kept fairly dry at the root, but now that
rooting has beguu, more frequent aud more
applications of water will be made.

Deciduous I): iidrohiams. — Under this heading, a
large number of valuable spring-flowering plauts
are included, of which Dendrobium Wardiauum is
doubtless the best ; then I), crassinode, whose
variety Barberianum is a high-coloured form. Both
plants are now showing flower-buds, and breaking
into growth. To prevent these young growths
making untoward progress, the plauts should still
be kept in a light, cool, well-ventilated house, and
only afforded water when the last-made pseudo-
bulbs show signs of shrivelling. The Hawthorn-
scented D. aureiim, now iu bloom, may remain iu
the East India-house the whole year, but excepting
when rooting freely, it will need water but seldom.
Plants of D. Bensouiie, if thoroughly matured, will
very seldom require water during the resting period,
neither will those of D. Parishi and D. polyphle-
bium. Dendrobiums primulinuni, crepidatum,
cretaceum, Devonianum, Boxalli, transparens, and
lituiHorum, are resting at the cooler part of the
Cattleya-house, and are afforded just enough water
as will prevent much shrivelling. Here I grow
B. chrysantlmiii, which is now beginning to
grow, but which will take no harm if kept dry at
the root for some considerable length of timo yet.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House. Malvern.

Richardia ElliotHana. — Old tubers of this plant
which have been kept in a dry state may now be
examiued, and those showing signs of starting into
growth should be potted. The dormant tubers
may be left until a later date, if a long succession
of spathes is required ; but in no case ought the
repottiug to be delayed after growth commences.
A suitable compost consists of three parts turfy
loam-; one, part peat or leaf-soil, and some silver-

•Janiarv 28, 1S99.]

THE Gu 1 R D E NE R S! ChHRO N I CL E.

55

saud. Iu potting, half fill the pot with soil, ami
press it firmly, and upon this basis place the tuber,
sprinkling it with silver-sand, and then fill the
pot with soil to within 1 inch of the rim.
Place the pots in the stove, and afford water
very carefully till the roots reach the sides
of the pots, in order to guard against decay.
Once started, the growth is rapid, and plenty of
water is required. When the flowering stage is
reached, the plants should lie removed from the
stove to an intermediate temperature iu order to
lengthen the life of the spathes. When the foliage
begins to turn yellow, the amount of water afforded
should be reduced ; and by the time it has died
down, the soil should have been allowed to get
quite dry. It is most important that it be kept in
that condition until the tubers again start of them-
selves into growth. Speaking roughly, Richardia
Elliottiana requires the same sort of treatment as
Caladiums.

Phylloeactm should be very sparingly watered
during the winter, otherwise they are apt to get
into a sickly condition, consequent upon a loss of
roots. It will be sufficient for the present if just
enough water is afforded to keep the foliage in a
plump condition. Plants which have got into an
unhealthy state should have the soil shaken from
the roots, dead portions of the latter removed with
the knife, and the plants re-potted, using as small
a pot as possible, and a compost afforded which
consists of loam, a little peat, and a liberal allow-
ance of sand and finely -broken brick-rubble or
crocks, and be placed near the glass in a tempera
ture of from 50° to 55°.

LiboniafloribundaandL. I'< nrhosii nsin . When
these very useful winter-flowering plants go out of
flower the shoots should be cut back, and the plants
introduced to heat, in order that they may produce
shoots fit for making cuttings. These strike readily,
and when rooted they should be potted into small pots
and grown on iu heat for a time, taking the points
out of the shoots occasionally, so as to induce
bushiness.

Tuberous-rooted Begonias. — Seed should now be
sown if good-sized flowering plants are required iu
the current year. The seed-pots should be half
filled with crocks, and filled up to within half-an-
iuch of the rim with a finely-sifted mixture of equal
parts sandly loam and leaf -soil, with silver-sand in
sufficient quantity to make the whole porous.
Press this down evenly with the flat bottom of a
Mower-pot, sow the seed thinly, and cover it with
a slight sprinkle of silver-sand : then afford water
by holding the seed-pot iu a pailful of water which
must come upwards through the hole in the bottom
until the sand upon the surface appears damp. It
is best to afford water in this manner till the seed-
lings have taken firm hold of the soil, the seeds
being so minute that they are liable to be washed
from one side of the pot to the other each time
water is afforded through a rose, however fine it
may be. Cover the pots with a piece of glass, and
place them in the stove or on a hot-bed, and shade
carefully.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN

By H. Maukuam, Gardener to tin1 Earl of Strafford,
Wrothum Park, Barnet

Fn nch Beans.— 1 was never very successful with
the forcing of Freuch Beaus during the most sun-
less part of the winter, the crop, as a rule, being
scanty indeed, and scarcely worth the trouble and
expense of cultivation ; but as the light iuereased
the crops were more plentiful, and the pods had
more substance. The variety Ne Plus Ultra is one
of the most valuable varieties for an early crop,
usually produciug great quantities of straight pods.
For the first crop the use of pots is to be recom-
mended, placiug four to six beaus in each according
to size of pot used ; 24s are sufficiently large
for the early crop. The compost used should
be sweet and moderately light, and may con-
sist of loam mixed with spent Mushroom-bed
manure, or leaf-mould, not much decayed. The pots
should lie well drained, and then filled to within
3 iuches of the rim, aud having made firm, press
the seeds into the soil 1 inch, or sow on the surface
aud cover to that depth. Stand the pots in a tem-
perature of (301 to 65°, with a brisk rise with sun-
shine. Keep the atmosphere moist. Unless the
soil gets very dry, aft'ord no water till the young
plants show through the soil ; and when the plants
are well up syringe with tepid water moderately
twice daily iu bright weather. Tap the pots fre-
quently, affording water when required ; and before

the plants fall over and get damaged, put twigs
rouud the pots to support the plants, which will
allow of the syringe being used with force, other-
wise red-spider and thrips will put in appearance
and give the gardener much trouble. When the
plants are iu bloom, lessen the amount of humidity
in the air, and dispense with the syringe till the pods
have formed, when the previous treatment may be
resumed. If suitably heated pits or small span-
roofed houses are. at command, French Beans do
well planted out singly at a distance of 6 to" inches
from bean to beau, and 12 inches betwixt the rows.
Beans require ventilating to keep the plants healthy,
lint it should be done so as not to chill them. If
a bed is not at liberty, sow half-a-dozen seeds in
a sufficient number of large liO-pots, aud plant out
those with as little disturbance of the roots as
may be, later on.

Broccoli. — The self-protecting autumn varieties
being now over, the next to follow will be Snow's
Winter White, the stock of which should be looked
over at short intervals of time, aud the leaves
turned over such heads as are of suitable size ; or
dig up the plants, and replant closely together on a
south border, or lay them in by the heels in frames
where in severe weather they may be protected.

Beet. — Although the roots are usually taken up
early iu the autumn and placed under cover, I
much prefer to select the more suitable size, and
lay-in close together iu trenches on a sheltered
border, and protect them with litter, bracken, or
fiue coal-ashes. By this method they keep fresh,
and of good flavour. Carrots, Parsley, Salsafy,
and Parsnips may be wintered iu a similar manner.

Potatos. — Let the tubers in store be examined
on wet days, removing decayed ones, aud rubbing
off the sprouts. Seed Potatos should belaid out
thinly, so that sprouting will be delayed to the
latest date. Keep all Potato3 cool, short of
freezing.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener, Dropinore, Maidenhead,
Raspberry Plantations may yet be made in open
weather if the ground be not too wet for manipula-
tion, aud all work of this kind should lie finished
oil within the next few weeks at the latest. Rasp-
berry-plants being visually allowed to remain five
or six years without disturbance, the ground should
be trenched 2 feet deep, and heavily manured at
each spit dug. Soil of a light nature rather than
clayey is the best adapted for Raspberry culture,
and where the latter prevails, leaf-mould, charred
garden-refuse, lime-rubble, sandy road-parings,
and such like should be incorporated with the
staple in lieu of heavy manure, the latter being
used with advantage on light soils. Assuming that
the trenching has been finished long enough, a
week at least, to allow of a settlement of the soil to
take place, the planting the canes may then be
carried out. The manner of training to be adopted
must, to some extent, regulate the manner of
planting, and canes of medium strength should be
chosen. One of the simplest methods of training
is to tie the canes to a couple of lengths of gal-
vanised iron wires stretched horizontally, using
a sufficient number of upright posts to ensure
stability, the end posts being stouter than the
others. The rows may be ."i feet apart, and the
single canes 2 feet. The canes should be tied
loosely to the wires, and in a few weeks they may
be cut down to within two or three eyes, or about
a foot of the soil. If grown in clumps of canes
fastened to stakes, three canes should be planted
together at 4 feet apart in the row, or these may be
tied over eventually half to the right aud to the
left, in the form of an arch when tied together, to
the point or crown of which a stake is placed to tie
the caues to, thus forming a series of lew arches.
Market-growers plant thus, but usually cut the
canes to about 3 feet in height, aud use no
supports.

Varieties. — The largest-fruited Raspberry is

Superlative, a strong grower aud heavy cropper, of
fairly good flavour, and useful for dessert. Battm-
forth's Seedling is a large and free-fruiting variety,
of good flavour ; while Carter's Prolific is older,
and one that is largely grown for market purposes.
Sempsr Fidelis is a useful and heavy-cropping
variety ; the fruits are of a bright colour aud acid,
but making an excellent preserve, and one of the
bast for making Raspberry -vinegar. It is also
a rather later fruiting variety than either of the
precediug, and should be grown where a long season

of these fruits is desired. Belle de Fonteuay is
the best of the autumnal fruiting kinds. All newly-
planted canes should be mulched with half-rotten
or rather littery manure

The Pruning of Outdoor Grape-vims should be
carried out now, before the sap begins to flow. The
aim of the prnner should be to secure a good quan-
tity of well-ripened young shoots, and ample space
should be allowed between the branches to admit of
light and air to reach them. Old and much spurred-
in branches may be removed, thus makiug room for
young, strong, well-ripened, fruitful wood. A rich
top-dressing should also be applied to the border if
growth is unsatisfactory, some of the old soil being
removed down to the roots, and new loam and
bone-meal substituted. A mulch of half-rotted
manure may be given. The Sweetwater is the bei-f.
outdoor variety of Grape.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapmax, Gardener to Cantata Holforh, Westonbirf
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Japam -< Maples. — These amall -growing Japa u
trees are admirably adapted for planting in groups,
and as single specimens on lawns. They are low'-
growing deciduous trees, with erect stems ; the
branches are spreading, and furnish the tree down
to the ground. Some we have planted in sheltered
positions, but our finest specimens are planted on
the lawn, fully exposed to the wind and sun. These
are 15 feet high, and 42 feet iu circumference. Leer
palmatum has seven-lobed leaves, elegantly notched
and toothed, aud when planted in the open the
leaves are of a bronzy-green colour. The best
varieties are Acer p. atropurpureum (the boldest
of the type), having deep purple leaves ; A. p.
aanguineum, similar to the former, with leaves of a
deep blood-red ; A. p. ampelopsifolium, very fiue
in growth, of more spreading habit, leaves purple in
spring, bronzy greeu insummer, and superb crimson
colour in autumn : A. p. dissectum, leaves of a
deep red colour, finely cut and serrated, resembling
a Fern : A. p. palmatifidum, similar in growth aud
habit to dissectum, leaves green ; A. p. septemi-
lobum, leaves green in summer, turning to
a brilliant crimsou colour in autumn ; A. p.
roseum and A. p. roseum marginatum are of too
delicate a constitution to be planted outside, but:
succeed well when grown in pots. Acer japonicum
and its variety A. j. vitifolium are less hardy than
A. palmatum, but planted on elevated ground and
iu less exposed positions they may succeed. It
has handsome Vine-like leaves, which assume a
very rich colour in autumn. These Maples thrive
best when plauted in a good rich, sandy loam
about 3 feet deep. The soil should lie made firm
by treading before planting, to prevent tin- tree
from siukiug. Abundance of water should be
given during a dry season. The severest winters
do not harm them, but late spring frosts about the
second week in May will kill the young growths.
The lower placed buds then burst into growth, and
the trees soou recover. Do not prune, as doing so
spoils the character of the trees.

Bedding Plants. — A number of plant- of which
the stock is usually raised iu the spring from
cuttings, or is insufficient in point of numbers,
should be placed iu gentle warmth, say, that
of a vinery recently started, in order that they may
make growth ere cuttings are taken. These may
consist of zonal Pelargoniums, Ivy-leaf, variegated,
and sweet scented Verbenas, Lobelia Eriuus
varieties, Fuchsias, Heliotropes, Gazanias, Jacobeas,
Sweet Aloysia, Sfcc. It will suffice to sprinkle the.
plants night aud morning. Afford them water iu
iucreasiug quantities as growth progresses, but do
not divide up potfuls of cuttings till the first crop
of shoots has been taken. Dahlias, of which but
few examples exist, may be put into flat hampers or
deep cutting-boxes,- and covered with leaf-soil, in
order that they may push early shoots fit for
making cuttings. Lantanas, handsome either iu
vases as centres of beds, aud subjects for planting
in hot corners, may be placed in heat to push
out shoots. These plants should not be cut
back more than once, or they will flower badly.
The curreut season's struck plants are not t"
be depended upon to flower much, but there
are some new varieties which bloom well the
first year. Seeds of the Cauna may now be
sosvn in hot-beds, also those of Wigaudia Caracas -
ana, and the large-growing foliage Solanums, con-
tinue to cultivate the seedlings iu a good degree
of warmth till' the middle of March, the object
being to secure large plants by May.

56

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[.January 28, 1S99.

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

SllOUld be WRITTEN ON ONE HIDE ONLY OF THE PAPER,

sent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by
the writer. If desired, the signature will uat &e printed, but
kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under-
take to pay far any contributions, or to return unused com-
munications or Illustrations, unless lag special arrangement.
Local Nevis.— Correspondents toill greatly oblige bu sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of Interest to our readers, or of any mailers which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers. — Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to marl: the paragraphs Hag wish the Editorto see.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive ami select
photographs or drawings, suitable fa- reproduction, of
gardens, ar of erinael.ohte plants, flowers, trees, &C. ; but

he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, Jan. ->S— Royal Botanic Soc. meet.
TUESDAY, Jan. 31— Royal Hort. Sot. Committees
THURSDAY, Fee. 2— Linnean Soc. n I.

SALES.

("Roses, Lilies, Gloxinias, Hanly
SO-! Border Plants, Sc, at Protheroe
^ Ai Morris' Rooms.
l Carnations, Lily of tlie Valley,

1 - Pseonies, at Protheroe & Morris'
( Rooms.

/"Japanese Lilies. 1000 Roses, Shrubs,
WEDNESDAY", Feb. 1- Greenhouse. Plants, &c, at Pro-
^ theme & Morris' Rooms.
("Hardy Perennials, Spmeas, Roses,

2 { Carnations, &c, at Protheroe &
( Moriis Rooms.

MONDAY,

TUESDAY, Jan. 31<

THURSDAY, Feb.

FRIDAY

IPmonies, Hollyhocks, Hardy Border
Plants, tee., at Protheroe &
Morris' Rooms.
Imported and Eslahli-hed Orchids,
;it Protheroe tv Morris' Rooms.

Average Temperatcre for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-thr le rears, at Chisviuk.— 39T-

Actual Temperatures :—

London.— Jan nary 25 ('■ P.M.): Max., 41° ; Hill., 32\
Provinces.— January 2ii (6 p.m.): Max., 47°, Valentin ;
.Mm.. 32 , Aberdeen.
Easterly winds, bright, line, slight frost.

The death, on the 20th inst., of
Mr. John Lee. Mr. John Lee, of Hammersmith,
in his ninety-fourth year, is, in
many ways, a notable circumstance. To the
younger members of the present generation
John Lee was as a name only ; he had out-
lived most of his older associates, and for the
last few years had rarely been seen among us.
Nevertheless, there are very many who remem-
ber him as the genial President of the Horti-
cultural Club, and still more who associate him
with the "Gardeners' Benevolent." He lived
scarcely a day after the annual meeting noted
in our columns last week. For how many years
he had been a member of the Society we do not
exactly know, but until the last three or four
years he had never missed attendance at the
annual meeting for a period of at least fifty
years. He was, in fact, the Father of the
Society, and we have heard him allude to the
anxiety which he and his associates felt in the
very early days of the Institution lest the funds
in hand should not be adequate to the payment
of the pensions to the two or three annuitants
who then were the only members of the pension
list.

He lived to see the Institution in its present
flourishing condition, and had the satisfaction
of knowing that he himself had, by his own
exertions, largely contributed to make it what
it now is. A legacy of £100, free of duty,
shows that he did not wish his interest in the
Institution to be terminated by his death.

John Lee, from the great age to which he

had attained, and the abundant experience he
had enjoyed, had encyclopaedic knowledge which
he was always pleased to impart to his younger
associates. Up till the last few years he was a
constant visitor at the meetings of the Royal
Horticultural Society, and was enabled to render
great service to the Fruit Committee from his
extensive knowledge of the history and the
comparative merits of fruits.

In 1877 a dinner, presided over by Dr. Hogg,
was given in his honour by the members of the
Horticultural Club, on the occasion of his
retiring from business ; and in 1882 a similar
compliment was paid to him, when a service of
plate was presented by the officers of the
Gardeners' Benevolent, in recognition of his
having acted as Trustee for forty years, and as
Chairman of the Committee for nearly the
whole of that period. The latter office, indeed,
he tilled up to the last few years. His portrait
hangs in the meeting-room of the Horticultural
Club ; and a photographic illustration was given
in our columns in 1893, p. 259.

At the funeral on the 25th inst. , in Brompton
Cemetery, the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent
was represented by Messrs. H. J. Veitch,
Sherwood, Monro, Ingram, and others. Mr.
Owen Thomas, R. M. Hogg, Mr. Wright,
Dr. Masters, and others were also present.
One of the wreaths, consisting of white Arums,
Eucharis, Lilies, Lilies of the Valley, Azaleas,
&c.j was sent by the Committee, " In Memory
of the Father of the Gardeners' Royal
Benevolent Institution."

John Lee was originally connected with
the famous firm of nurserymen at Hammer-
smith. Together with his brother Charles,
who died in 1881, he successfully conductod
this great business, but retired some years
since. The Hammersmith nurseries — the
original nucleus — have long since been built
over. A similar fate has overtaken the nur-
series of the firm at Ealing, but a large business
is still carried on at Feltham.

Lee's nursery was one of the "all-round
nurseries " which are now rapidly disappearing.
Nurserymen now-a-days have to specialise and
devote their attention principally to one or to
a comparatively few subjects. The result is
not altogether satisfactory in one respect, as
the knowledge of plants in general now pos-
sessed by the men of business is neces-
sarily less than it was in the times of their
predecessors.

The Hammersmith nursery in bye-gone days
was the source whence numerous " new plants"
from the Cape of Good Hope were distributed,
Masson and other collectors having relations
with the firm. The founder of the firm was
James Lee, who, as Johnson tells us in his
History <>f English Gwdening, was for some
time with Philip Miller at Chelsea, and after-
wards gardener to the Duke of Argyll at
Whitton Park, where a fine collection of trees
was got together. Subsequently, in connection
with Kennedy, he established the Vineyard
Nursery at Hammersmith. His death took
place in 1797.

A short statement relating to the further his-
tory of the firm was given in our columns in a
former volume. It is of such interest that
we feel justified in reproducing the substance
of it at the present time :—

" Mr. Jas. Lee, who established the nursery,
was born at Selkirk ia 1715. When he first came
to London he was employed at Syou, aud after-
wards at Whittou, by the Duke of Argyll. About
the year 176U hs eutered into partnership with
Mr Lewis Kennedy, gr. to Lord Bolton, at

Chiswick, aud commeuced a nursery, in what was
called The Vineyard, at Hammersmith. About the
middle of the last century this vineyard produced
annually a considerable quantity of Burgundy wine.
A thatched house was built in the grounds ; the
upper part was used as a dwelling-house, and for
selling the wine, and underneath were the wine-
cellars. The house was formerly occupied by
Worlidge, the celebrated engraver, and here he
executed the most valuable and admired of his
works. Mr. Lee was patronised by the Earl of
Islav, afterwards Duke of Argyll, the planter of
Whitton, who died in 1761, aud other noblemen ;
he corresponded with Linnaeus, and compiled from
his writings An. Introduction to Botany, pub-
lished in 1760, which went through five editions,
and for many years was in the highest repute. He
died in the year 1795, at the age of eighty years,
his partner, Mr. Kennedy, having died previously.

The nursery "was carried on by the sons of the
two founders till 1817, when they dissolved part-
nership. It then became the sole property of
James Lee, the second, who died in 1824, leaving
it to his family. In 1827 John Lee was joined in
the conduct of this important business by his
brother Charles, who was born at the Royal
Viueyard Nursery on February 8, 1S0S, and died on
September 2, 1881. The firm was conducted under
the title of John k Charles Lee till 1877, when
Mr. John Lee retired, and William Lee, the sou
of Charles, joined his father in the management
of the business. Iu 1881, however, upon the death
of Charles Lee, the veteran John again, for a
time, accepted harness, coming to the assistance of
his nephew, who was very deeply affected by the
loss of his father.

Besides an extensive correspondence, and a vigi-
lant attention to procure every new plant as soon
as it was introduced by others, Messrs. Lee &
Kennedy introduced many pl.tnts into the country,
through collectors whom they had scut abroad, and
through foreign botanists. They maintained a
collector in America, who sent home several new
Oaks, and iu partnership with the Empress
Josephine, one at the Cape of Good Hope, who sent
horn., many new Ericas, Ixias, and other Capo
plants. To this firm it is, also, we owe the first
Fuchsia, and what that means to the sum of huniau
happiness, every gardener, every cottager even, can
appreciate. They also had the first China Rose, in
1787."

LINNEAN SOCIETY.— At the evening meeting
intended to be held on Thursday, February 2, 1899,
at 8 p.m., the following papers will be read ; — 1,
" Notes on the Genus Nauomitrium, Lindberg," by
Mr. E. Stanley Salmon. 2, "On the production
of apospory iu Athyrium Filix-fcemina var. unco-
glomeratum, an apparently barren Fern," by Dr.
F. W. Stansfield. 3, " On the Genus Leniualia,
Gray, witli an account of the branching systems
of the order Aleyonacea," by Mr. Gilbert C.
Bourne, M.A., F.L.S., &c

Royal Horticultural Society.— The next
fruit and Horal meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 31, iu the
Drill Hall, .James Street, Westminster, from 1 to
4 P. M, This will be the last meeting of the 1S98-99
committees, the new ones comiug into office ou
Fel). 14. A lecture on "Twelve Months amoug
tlu Orchards of Nova Scotia," will be given by
Mr. Cecil H. Hooper, F.R.H.S., at 3 o'clock;
aud Mr. Arthur Sutton will give details of some
of his remarkable experiments with Potatos at the
Scientific Coinnittee at 4 p.m.

G^ANT OF £100 TO THE ROYAL BOTANIC
SOCIETY. — The London County Council has just
given its second annual contribution of £100 to the
" practical gardening school," which is held in the
gtrdeus of the Royal Botanic Society at Regent's
Park. This grant is made yearly on condition that
the school receive a number of boys up to ten, who
are to uudergo a three-year course of instruction
iu all branches of practical gardening.

January 28, 1899.]

THE GAR DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

•57

Loddiges' Library.— It is singular that at
a time when we are recalling memories of a
famous nursery at Hammersmith, we should
also have our attention called to a nursery that
once enjoyed the highest reputation at Hackney.
An announcement of the sale, at Puttick & Simp-
son's, of the library of the late C. Loddiges, who
died in 1846, will bring to the mind of some the
then wonderful collections of Orchids, Succulent
plants, Palms, and other exotic plants, many of
which figures were giveu in Loddiges' Botanical
Cabinet. The library to be sold comprises among
other things : Citrtis's Botanical Magazine, 93 vols, ;

not conferred loug ago ; but in any case they desire
to participate in the congratulations tendered to
this zealous friend of horticulture.

M. Henri Leveque de Vilmorin has been
promoted to the grade of "officer" of the "Merite
Agricole ;" but no honour of this kind, in the case
of M. de Vilmorin, cau add to the esteem in
which he is held by his fellows on this side of the
Channel.

Scots Fir Cones and the Pine Gros-
beaks.—Mr. F. B. Dovkton, Karstield, Torquay,
in a communication addressed to the editor of the

and are very rare visitors
believe."

to this country, I

Rhododendron ciliicalyx. — This is the

name of a new Rhododeudron discovered by the
Abbe Delavay, in Yunnan, and figured by M.
Andre, in the Revue Horticole of the 16th inst.
The leaves resemble those of R. ciliatum, and the
flowers, which are between 4 and ."> inches across,
are widely campanulate and white, flushed with
violet. The calyx is less than a quarter-of-au-inch
loug, with rounded lobes, bordered with long hairs.
The plant has flowered in the garden of M. Milne

Fig. 19.— duns castle, Berwickshire, (see r. 49.)

Paxton's Magazint of Botany ; Shane's Jamaica :
Elliott's Botany of South Carolina; Lindley's
Roearum Monographia ; Parkinson's H< rball ;
Roxburgh's Plant* if Coromandel; Plantes den
Brasilieus ; A ndrews's Engravings of Heaths, 4 vols. ;
6ri rarde's 11< rball, 1636 : Flora Peruvianaet Chilt »-
sis, 4 vols. ; Edward's Botanical Register, 34 vols. ;
Andrews's Roses ami Geraniums; and Chandler's
Illustrations of Camellias.

Honours to French Horticulturists.—
M. Charles Joly. — It is with a feeling of satisfac-
tion that we learn that this energetic horticulturist
has been nominated a Chevalier of the Legion of
Honour by the French Government. It is a matter
for surprise to outsiders that this distinction was

Westminster Gazette, January 18, says: — "It may
interest your readers to learn that I saw a pair of
Pine Grosbeaks (Loxia enucleator) in a road close
to this on the 10th inst. They were feeding on
the coues of a Scotch Fir, and excavating them
with their sharp beaks, now and then dropping
them on the ground. They were very tame, and
I could hardly be mistaken, as I watched them for
some time, and was very close. They resemble and
are allied to the loopbills, but are larger aud
more slender. The male might have been from
7 5 to 8 inches iu length. His head, throat, and
breast were of a bright carmine, and his back of a
dusky-red. The female was more of a greenish-
yellow all over, and wanted the earmiue on the
head and breast. These are birds of the North.

Edwards. R. ciliicalyx, with no fewer than "thirty -
live other species from the same region, was
described by M. Franlhet, in the Bulletin Soc.
Butan. France, xxxiii., p. 223, and yet there are
those who consider that there are no more worlds
to conquer in the department of systematic botany !

Date of Flowering of the Snowdrop. —
The Snowdrop was first observed iu bloom in a
Middlesex gardeu on Jan. 22 this year. In the
same gardeu and in the same border the dates of
flowering since 1S90 were as follows : — 1890, Jan. 9 ;
1891, Feb. 6 ; 1S92, Jan. 22 ; 1893, Jan. 30 ; 1894,
Jau. 21; 1895, Jan. 17; 1S96, Jan. 16; 1S97, not
recorded ; 1898, Jan. 18 ; 1899, Jan. 22 ; the 9th of
Jan. being the earliest date ; Feb. 6, or the thirty-

58

the gardeners: chronicle.

[January 28, 1899.

seventh day of the year, the latest. The Hazel was
observed in bloom on Jan. 21, but was seen some
days earlier in the same neighbourhood. In 1894
the Hazel was recorded to be in bloom on Dec. 30,
the usual dates beiug among the earliest days in
February.

European Orchids. — M. Correvon, of the
Jardin Alpin d'Acclimatation, 2, Rue Daneet,
( ieneva, is about to issue, if a sufficient number of
subscribers be forthcoming, a series of sixty octavo
coloured plates, representing the hardy terrestrial
Orchids of Central Europe, with accompanying
text. We have seen some of the plates, and can
speak favourably of them as accurate representa-
tions of the plants. A subscription of 17". will
ensure the possession of what will evidently be a
very useful publication.

Eucalyptus cordata. — The Karl of

ANNB3LEy obligingly forwards from Castlewellan,
co. Down, a spray with flower buds of this species,
which so far lias proved hardy in East Ireland.
The mature leaves are sessile, about 5 cent, long by
4 cent, in breadth, coi date, ovate, obtuse, glaucous
on both surfaces. The flowers are in stalked
clusters, each cluster consisting of three flowers.
It is handsome in appearance, and has an aromatic
fragrance.

Paisley Horticultural Society ; Paisley
Gardeners' Reunion.— The thirty-sixth annual

rdunion of the gardeners of Paisley was held in
the "George" Temperance Hotel, on 20th inst.
Mr. James Anderson presided, and delivered an
interesting address. An enjoyable evening was
spent.

Science Teaching in Horticulture.— A

meeting will be held to arrauge preliminaries for a
class, at 2, The Broadway, Hammersmith, on Mon-
day, January 30, at 8 P.M. The class is intended
as a preparation for the Royal Horticultural So-
ciety's examination ; it will meet on two nights a
week, and will be conducted by Wilfred Mark
Webb, F.L.S., late assistant-biologist in the School
of Horticulture of the Essex County Council,
l helmsford.

The Gardens and Gardener at Combe
ABBEY. — In reference to an article under the above
heading which appeared in our issue for Sept. 24
last, it may be interesting to state that Mr.
William Miller, who has since resigned the
superintendence of these gardens, is now busy
forming a nursery for the cultivation of choice
hardy plants. Mr. Miller has built a very charm-
ing residence a short distance out of Coventry, and
it is surrounded by several acres of laud. His
address is now "Raylands," Berkswell, near
. Coventry.

The Effects of the Mild Weather are,
in some instances, very striking, as we are told by
a correspondent at Backett, Shriveuham, that at
that place a pyramid Pear-tree in a>. exposed site is
covered with open blossom; at Walcott Hall,
Stamford, a young tree of Apple Deux Ans is
bearing a second crop of fruit, aud two fruits are
sent, one 2 inches in diameter, and another half
that size. Iu the same gardens, Strawberries have
set two dozen fruits per plant — of course, only to
succumb later.

Tradescantia virginica. — Microscopists of
the middle of the waning century, and of earlier
periods, will remember how they were wont to
examine the movement of the juices iu the cells
springing from the stamens of this plant. A com-
plete anatomical monograph of the plant, from the
pen of M. Gravis,* the Professor of Botany in the
University of Liege, will be referred to with great
interest. The introduction supplies an historical
summary of the principal publications relating to
the histology of monocotyledonous plants in general,

* Becherches Anatomiqucs ei Physiologiques sur /< Trades-
cantia virginica. . . . Par A. Gravis, Professcur a l'Uni-
versitefle Liege. (Bruxelles, Havez, Rue ile Lbuvain, 112.)

and of the Commelynacea: in particular, a sum-
mary which will be of great utility to students.
M. Gravis then proceeds to give an exhaustive
account of the anatomy of Tradescantia virginica
iu all its stages of growth, aud concludes with a
risume of the principal results and conclusions
arrived at, aud especially those which possess novel
features. A full bibliography is given, and the
subject is illustrated by twenty-seven quarto litho-
graphic plates. To discuss the details of such a
work of longut lial< ine as this is impossible in this
place. Suffice it to say, that the work is a monu-
ment of paiustakiug research, which, like the
similar monograph of Urtiea, redounds to the
honour of Belgian science, and to the credit of
M. Gravis.

Value of Fruit Imports— Almost at a

glance it will be seen, from the accompanying table,
how much we paid last year for the foreign and
colonial fruits imported into this country, as
reported from month to month by the authorities
of the Board of Trade. These figures are compared
with those for 1S97, and the differences, plus or
minus, are given, iu order to, as far as possible,
complete the year's record. The decrease in value
for 1898 is trifling— the selling price brought much
excellent fruit well within the reach of the masses,
who (the juniors especially) voraciously availed
themselves of cheap and wholesome foreign fruit.
The figures are as follows : —

iMI'ORTS.

1S'.>7.

1898.

Difference.

Fruits, raw :—

£

£

£

Almonds value

430.4JS

653,431

+ 117,1103

Apples ,,

1,187, 303

1,107,058

-80,245

Cherries ,,

178,131

230,828

+02,097

Grapes ,,

195,017

549,513

54,496

Letpons ,,

«0,150

439,286

29,136

Nuts, used as fruit .,

501,356

:.-:, 598

74,242

Oranges ,

2,206,920

1,980,160

-260,760

Pe us ,,

377,900

221,77.'

- r.o.iis

Plums ,,

4'.I7,7S3

434,666

-03,117

Unenumcrateu, raw ,,

095,159

870,711

+ 175,552

Total £

7,046,147

6,900,023

677,124

We may be permitted to add here the values of the
following items, to complete the tale, for the year,
as told month by month. Thus, in 1897, Onions
were imported to the value of £760,500, against
i'792,907, an increase of £32,347. The Potatos
imported iu 1897 were valued at £1,200,328,
against £1,913,912 in 1898, or an increase of
£713,584 ; the value of vegetables, raw aud nu-
enumerated, amounted to the sum of £1,450,701 in
1897, against £1, 080,734 in the year following,
showing au increase of £224,033.

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent.— At the
dinner of the committee, held after the business of
the annual meeting had been concluded, Mr. Harry
Vettch, the Treasurer, announced the establish-
ment of a Samaritan Fund, the interest of which
would be distributed among unsuccessful candi-
dates who had not been subscribers, the Victorian
Era Fund being reserved exclusively for the benefit
of those who have been subscribers. It was
auuouuced that the Earl of Derby would preside
at the annual dinner on July 28.

Publications Received. — Nature Notes,
Jan. 1899. — Contributions to the Flora of New Ghlinea
and Queensland, by F. Mansou Bailey, F.L.S. —
Extracts from the Quet ustaud Agricultural Joiirnal,
vol. iii., parts .'!, 4, aud 5, for September, October,
aid November, 1898. — Preliminary Study of tin
Prickly Pears naturalised in New Smith Wales:
J. H. Maiden, Department of Agriculture, Sydney,
New South Wales. — Proceeding* of the Tenth
Ammo' Meeting of the Association of Economic
Entomologists, U. S. Department of Agriculture,
Division of Entomology, Bulletin No. 17. — Selleri-
ylantens, Historie, Udbredelse og Anvendelse, Carl
Hansen, Copenhagen. — Botanisches Centralblatt,
Baud lxxvii, No. 1, 1899; Westnik, Transactions

of the St. Petersburg Horticultural Society. —
Transactions of tin English Arboricultural Society,
vol. iv., part 1. Including the report of the seven-
teenth annual meeting at Penrith in August last,
and papers on : Different Methods adopted in the
Measurement of Standing and Felled Timber, by
T. Bright ; Planting, Maintenance and Manage-
ment of a Plantation for the first Twenty-five Years,
by Edward Dalglish ; and on various allied subjects.
— Chemical Manures and Garden Crops, lecture by
F. W. E. Shrivell, Golden Green, Tonbridge, deli-
vered before the Devon and Exeter Gardeners'
Association, November, 1898. — Proceedings amcl
Journal of the Agricultural and Horticultural Society
of India, July to September, 1898. — Agricultural
Gazettt of New Smith Wales, November, 1898.
This contains articles aud notes on the Ramie Fibre
Plant, by H. V. Jackson ; Pineapple Growing ;
Aspiuwall Potato Planter, J. L. Thompson ; the
Orchard, and Vegetable aud Flower growing. —
Journal de la Sociiti Nationale d' Horticulture de
France, December, 1898. — Bulletin d' Arboriculture.
de Floriculture it de Culture Potag&re, rfidige par
Fr. Burveuich, Ed. Pynaert ; Em. Rodigas & Hub.
van Hulle, January. — Tijdschrift coor Tuinboun;
Zesde und Zevende aflevering. — Bulletino del I a 1!.
Societa Toscana di Orticultura, Dicembre, 1898. —
Plantas novas Gultivadas no Jardim Botanico do Ilio
de Janeiro, descriptas, classificadas e desenhadas,
por J. Barbosa Rodrigues, VI. — Plantas Mattogros
senses ou Helacaode Plantas Novas, colhidas, classifi-
cadas e desenhadas, por y. Borbosa Rodrigues (Direc-
teur tin Jardiu). — Wells Chrysanthemum Calendar.
A large sheet containing directions as to the culti-
vation of Chrysanthemums in each month of the
year. The sheet is giveu au imposing appearance
by the large illustrations of half-a-dozen or so
selected novelties. Useful for posting in the pot-
ting-shed or garden-office. (W. Wells, Earlswood,
Redhill. ) — On Launs and -Lawn Tennis, Cricket,
Golf, and other Grassy Grounds, by Jas. Cartel &
Co., High Holboru, London, W.C.—Isli of Wight
Horticultural Improvement Association Almanack
for 1S99. A large sheet Calendar, containing a
list of the membership of the society, and much
information,' more particularly interesting to gar-
deners living upon the island. A Calendar of
garden operations for the year, &c. The sheet is
illustrated by a photograph of Sir Chas. Seeley, Bt.,
president of the society, aud a scene from one of
the island gardens.

ROYAL HOETICULTUEAL SOCIETY.

The following extracts are taken from the report
of the Council for the year 1898-99, to be presented
to the Auuual general meeting of Fellows, to be held
at the Society's offices, 117, Victoria Street, West-
minster, on Tuesday, February 14, 1899, at 3 p.m.

The year 189S-99 has been one of increased
prosperity for the Society.

The Council have felt justified iu spending a con-
siderable amount on the Liudley Library, namely
£170, to assist the Trustees in completing and
publishing a catalogue of the library, and also in
purchasing various books which the catalogue
showed to be wanting.

The catalogue was published iu December at a
price of 2s. 6d. in the hope that many Fellows
would purchase it, not only to inform themselves
what books the library contains, but also because it
forms in itself a sort of reference list to the biblio-
graphy of gardening. Some Fellows might also
take note of books still wanting to the library, with
a \ iew to presenting them.

I luring the past year valuable bouks have been
presented by the director of the Royal Gardens at
Kew, Dr. Maxwell Masters, F.R.S..T. J. Bennett-
Poj, Esq , Miss Ormerod, Mrs. Holborn, Signor
Alnio, and many others, to all of whom the best
thanks of the Society are due. A full list will be
published on April 1 in the Society's Journal, vol.
xxii., part 4. Acting in conjunction with the
Trustees, the Council have purchased for the library

January 28, 1809.]

THE GAB BE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

59

— The Silva of Nor Hi America, Prof. Sargent ; The
Flora of Northern America, Britton & Brown ;
Nature, from its commencement, 56 vols. ; Flora
of Tropical Africa ; Flora Germanica, Reichen-
bach, 22 vols. ; Flora Pyrenaica, Bubaui ; Atlas
des Plantes, Bois ; The Water Garden, Tricker ;
Flora of Berkshire, Druce ; Chemistry of the Gar-
den, Cousins ; Garden Making, Prof. Bailey ;
British Orchids, Webster ; and others.

Under the head of ordinary expenditure at
Chiswick £1,850 lias been spent on the general
work and maintenance of the gardens. Amongst
other work, House No. 9 and the potting-shed
attached thereto have been painted and thoroughly
repaired ; Houses Nos. 3, 14, 16, and 21 have all
been repaired and painted, as have also many of
the frames. All this work has been done by the
Society's own staff of men. The receipts by sale of
surplus produce amount to £357, making the net
ordinary cost of the gardens £1,493.

At Westminster, twenty-two Fruit and Floral
Meetings have been held in the Drill Hall, James
Street, Victoria Street ; and seven Committee
Meetings have been held at Chiswick, besides the
larger Shows in the Temple Gardens on May 25,
26, and 27 ; and at the Crystal Palace on Sep-
tember 29, 30, and October 1. Lectures have been
delivered at nineteen of the Meetings. The
number of awards granted by the Council, on the
recommendation of the various Committees, has
beeu as follows: — At Provincial Shows, 17;
Affiliated Societies, 70; Fruit Committee, 173;
Floral Committee, 432; Orchid Committee, 193;
Narcissus Committee, 21 ; Total, 906.

In addition to the above, 1 Silver-gilt Flora Medal
has been awarded to Miss O. Harrissou for having
passed 1st in the Society's examination, and 4
Hojg Memorial Medals have been awarded ; 85
Bronze Banksian Medals have also been granted to
Cottagers' Societies.

The Council are fully aware (as all Fellows visit
ing the Drill Hall shows must also be) how very
meritorious the groups of flowers, fruits, and vege-
tables, &c, are, and how thoroughly, as a rule,
they deserve the medals recommended by the com-
mittees. The Council entirely recognise the diffi-
c dty of the work of the committees iu decreasing
the number of medals they recommend. At the
same time they feel it their duty to urge upon all
the committees, and upon the individual members
thereof, the uecessity of gradually but continually
raising the standard of excellence which they set
before themselves in recommending awards.

Another poiut which the Council desire to suggest
to the committees, is whether groups exhibited by
the horticultural trade, and groups exhibited from
amateurs' gardens, should be judged by exactly the
same standard of excellence? Whether (except in
cases of open competition for prizes), some slight
favour should not 1 e shown to encourage the
latter ?

During the past year the Society has been pre-
sented with the dies of a very fine medal, which
has been struck and subscribed for by numerous
friends, iu memory of the late Dr. Robert Hogg. The
Council have decided to lestrict the use of this
medal to the Fruit and Vegetable Committee, with
which committee Dr. Hogg was so intimately and
specially connected from its very foundation in
1858.

On Tuesday, July 5, the Council invited all the
members of the several committees to lunch with
them at Chiswick, ar.d to examine the Gardens.
An account of the proceedings will be found in the
Journal, vol. xxii. , p. 237.

An International Conference on Hybridisation
has been arranged for July 11 and 12, 1899, to
commerce with a luncheon at Chiswick, to which
all the committees of the Society will be invited,
and to close with a banquet in the Whitehall
Rooms, Hotel Metropole, in honour of the distin-
guished foreign guests wdioare expected to attend the
Conference. Full particulars concerning the Con-
ference will be fcttud in the Society's Book of
Arrangements for the year 1839. Any Fellow -

desiring to be present at the banquet, and wishing
for tickets for ladies or gentlemen, should commu-
nicate with the Secretary before Jul}' 1 ; the price
of the tickets will be 21s.

The Council desire to draw the attention of all
Fellows of the Society to the more extended use
which the Scientific Committee might be to them
if they availed themselves more freely of their
privileges in submitting instances of eliseases of,
or injuries to plants, caused by insects or other-
wise. The Scientific Committee is composed of
gentlemen qualified to give the best advice on all
such subjects, either iu respect to the prevention
or cure of disease. The committee is also glad to
receive specimens of any subjects of horticultural
or botanical interest.

That Fellows, whether near or at a distance, may
derive as much benefit as possible from their con
uectiou with the Society, the Council last year
appointed Dr. J. Augustus Voelcker, M.A., con-
sulting chemist to the Society. They have renewed
their arrangement with him whereby all Fellows
who are amateurs or bonA-fide gardeners, may
obtaiu, at very small cost, analyses of manures,
soils, Ac, or advice as to what description of
chemical manure will be most suitable and profit-
able for application to any particular soil. The
Council wish again to draw particular attention to
the following points, viz. : —

(i.) That Fellows desiring an analysis must
follow explicitly and exactly the directions laid
down in the book of arrangements, 1899 ; and
(ii.) That Fellows who are in any way com-
mercially interested in any artificial manure
trade or horticultural business cannot claim Dr.
Voelcker's assistance as Fellows, but if they
wish to consult him, must do so in the ordinary
way of business.
The Society's Great Show held in May (by the
continued kindness of the Treasurer and Benchers)
in the Inner Temple Gardens, was as successful as
ever, and it is a matter of satisfaction to the
Council to find that this meetiug is now universally
acknowledged to be the hading horticultural exhi-
bition of this country. The best thanks of the
Society are due to all who kiudly brought their
plants for exhibition, or otherwise contributed to
the success of this show.

The Exhibition of British Grown Fruit held by
the Society at the Crystal Palace on Sept. 29,30,
and Oct. 1, was, considering the very unfavourable
season, most satisfactory. Full particulars will be
found in vol. xxii., Part 1, of the Journal, which
will be issued iu the course of a few weeks.

As an object-lesson in British fruit cultivation,
this annual show stands unrivalled, and is of
national importance. The Council invite Fellows
and their friends to support it, for it cannot be too
widely known that the continuance of the show is
absolutely dependent ou at least £100 beiug raiseel
by subscription each year towards the prize fund.
The show involves the society in a very large'
expenditure without the possibility of any return.

A deputation was sent by the council, at the
invitation of the local authorities, to attend the
great summer show of the Northumberland,
Durham, and Newcastle-on-Tyne Botanical and
Horticultural Society in July. Full particulars of
this visit will be found iu the society's Journal,
vol. xxii., p. cxiii. The council desire to record the
very great pleasure which this visit gave them, and
their appreciation of the great courtesy and
hospitality with which they were received.

An invitation has been received and accepted for
sending a small deputation to visit a show of
Daffodils and other early spring-flowers and
produce, to be held at Truro on March 21 and 22,
1899.

The Journal of the Society has been continued,
so as to enable Fellows at a distance to enter more
fully into and reap the benefits of the study and
woik of those actively engaged at head-quarters.
Vol. xxi., part 3, and parts 1, 2, aud 3 of vol xxii.,
were issued during the year, aud vol. xxii., part 4,
will be ready on April 1.

It is gratifying to record that the enquiry for
the Society's Leaflet on Fruits for Small Gardens,
Cottagers, aud Farmers continues. An entirely-
new aud enlarged edition has beeu published, and
may be obtained at the office at cost price.

The first edition of the Book of Rules for Judg-
ing, and Hints to Schedule Makers, which the
Society drew up in lS9ii has been exhausted. They
have therefore been revised auel reprinted, and au
Appendix ou point-judging and point-value has
been issued, price Is. 6"".

An examination iu the Principles aud Practice of
Horticulture was held on April 5, concurrently in
different parts of the United Kingdom, a centre
being established wherever a magistrate, clergyman,
schoolmaster, or other responsible person accus-
tomed to examinations would consent to super-
intend one on the society's behalf, auel iu accordance
with the rules laid down for its conduct. No limit
as to the age, position, or previous training of the
candidates was imposed. 190 candidates presented
themselves for examination. The names and
addresses of those who succeeded in satisfying the
examiners, together with the number of marks
assigueel to each, will be fouud in the society's
Journal, vol. xxii., p. 94.

It is proposed to hold a similar examination iu
1899, on Tuesday, April 11. Candidates wishing
to sit for the examination should make application
during February to the secretary, Royal Horti-
cultural Society's office, 117, Victoria Street,
Westminster.

The thanks of the Society are due to all the mem-
bers of the standing committees, viz., the Scientific,
the- Fruit aud Vegetable, the Floral, the Orchid,
aud the Narcissus Committees, for the kind and
patient attention which they have severally given
to their departments.

The thanks of the Society are also due to all
those who, either at home or abroad, have so kindly
presented plants or seeds to the Gardens. A list
of the donors has been prepared, auel will be fouud
in the Society's Journal, vol. xxi., part 4, 1899,
which will be issued on April I.

The Council wish to express, in their own name
aud iu that of the Fellows of the Society, their
great indebtedness to all who have so kindly con-
tributed, either by the exhibition of plants, fruits,
Sowers, or vegetables, or by the reading of papers,
to the success of the fortnightly meetings in the
Drill Hall. They are glad to find by the increased
auel increasing number of visitors that the Society's
fortnightly meetings are becoming betterappreciated
by the Fellows and public iu general.

A desire having beeu expressed that tin1 so-
called fortnightly meetings should be actually fort-
nightly throughout the whole year, it will be found
by referring to the Book of Arrangements, 1899,
that the Couucil have acceded to this request, as
far as it was possible to elo so, having regard to
such obstacles to absolute regularity as the Temple
and Crystal Palace Shows, auel the occurrence of
Bank Holidays.

The Couucil have the sael duty of recording the
death of forty-seven Fellows during the year, and
among them they regret to find the names of Baron
Ferdinand de Rothschild, M.P. ; the Lord Newton,
Mr. Christopher Sykes, the Earl of Sefton, the Earl
of Lathom, Lady Cromer, Lady Repton, Sir
Richard Quain, Sir Stuart Knill, Bart. ; Sir James
Bain, Hon. E. S. Parker Jervis, Professor Dr.
Allman, Mr. Latimer Clarke, M. C. Beruardin,
Dr. JohanLange1, Rev. D. A. Beaufort, Dr. 1' Anson,
Mr. H. M. Matheson, Mr. G. T. Clarke, Mr.
Edmund Touks, Mr. Chas. Sharpe, Mr. T. B.
Potter, and others.

The following figures will show the Society
progress in regard to numerical strength during the
past year :— Fellows elected, 619 ; deduct by resig-
nations and deaths, 119 ; numerical increase, 500.

The Council recommend that (with the exception
of the Secretary) the salaries of the principal
officers of the Society — the superintendent, the
cashier, and the assistant-superintendent, should
continue as heretofore. The Secretary haviug now

60

THE GAR DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[January 2S, 1899,

completed ten years of service to the Society, the
Council recommend that an addition of £50 a year
be made to his salary.

The balance-sheet shows a credit balance of
£1293 7s- 4rf.

Florists' Flowers,

AURICULAS.

The months of January and February do not
bring the florist much work among Auriculas, and
beyond keeping them healthy by the admission of
air when there is no frost, little can be done. Con-
tinue to afford water very cautiously ; only enough
to keep the soil from getting dust-dry being needed
for the present. The plants will be getting into
growth slowly as the season advances, and more
moisture at the roots may then be afforded. In
applying water, avoid wetting the leaves and
spilling water amongst the pots needlessly. Care-
fully remove all dead or decaying leaves from the
plants, and moss from the surface of the soil. On
the slightest sign of aphides, fumigate the frame,
&c. , with tobacco ; or, when a few plants only are
infested, brush off the insects with a camel-hair
brush. The weather in the south has become more
seasonable than of late, and means should be taken
to ward off frost by covering the glass in case of
sudden frost, covering being, for Auriculas, pre-
ferable to artificial heat.

The plants should be top-dressed about the
middle of February, if the weather should be mild,
therefore it will be well to have the compost in
readiness. The potting-compost should consist of
turfy loain two parts, decayed dry cow-dung half a
part each, and a small quantity of leaf-mould. The
compost should be placed under cover where it will
not freeze, so as to mellow by the time it is
wanted for the repotting.

Hollyhocks.

Seeds from a trusty source may be sown foith-
with in pots filled with light loamy soil, and placed
iu a house with a warmth of 05° or 70°. From out
of this sowing the strongest plants will bloom the
first year, and the remainder the following year.
If the seeds are of the best kinds, both single and
double flowers will appear. Iu my next note, I
will touch upon the treatment required after
germination. E. Molynaux.

much of his leisure. I would refer to the early
days of the association. In 1S77, a few kindred
spirits led by Mr. Robertson Munro, then of the
Abercorn Nursery, conceived the idea of holding
monthly meetings, at which subjects of gardening
interest were to be discussed, and at which plants,
fruits, and vegetables of merit exhibited and recog-
nised by awarding the best of them Cultural Certi-
ficates. The Association prospered fairly well for
about nine years, when some of the more ardent
n. embers advocated the holding of a Chrysanthe-
mum exhibition. Here I would like to mention
that Mr. Carruthers, of Hillwood, and Mr.
McMillan, of Trinity, in particular took up this
matter so strongly, with the result that iu 1SS6
the first exhibition was held iu a small hall in
George Street, Edinburgh. Since that year an
annual show has been held, and on the suggestion
of the late Mr. Wm. Thomson, of Clovenfords, a
centenary exhibition was held in 1SS9. The mag-
nificent success which attended this exhibition
gave an impetus to practical horticulture in Scot-
land, especially to Chrysanthemum culture, and
that of other winter-flowering [plants. It de-
monstrated the practicability of holding a large

in offering inducements to all classes of growers,
and to the care, ability, and promptitude, which
Mr. McKenzie has beBtowed on the finances of the
Association. J. W. McHatlic, Strathfieldsaye.

MR, A. McKENZlE, THE LATE
TREASURER, SCOTTISH HORTICUL-
TURAL ASSOCIATION.

Many readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle will le
glad to learn that the retirement of Mr. McKenzie
from the post of treasurer was not caused by failure
of bodily strength or lack of interest in the affairs
of the association, but from a desire to see a younger
man, with heart and soul in the carrying on the good
work of the association. A few words concerning
Mr. McKenzie's career will be of interest to many.
His gardening training began in Belladrum Gardens,
Inverness-shire, in 1848. After having undergone the
usual experience of young gardeners in Scotland iu
quest of further knowledge, he settled for some
few years on the shores of the Clyde, where he was
engaged in gardening, farming, and almost every
other aspect of rural life. Here it was that he laid
in a stock of knowledge which has stood him in
good stead. In 1S68 Mr. McKenzie entered the
Leith Walk Nurseries, waiting, as many others
had done before him, for something suitable to turn
up. At that time, the late Baillie Methven ac-
quired the Warristou Nursery, and young McKenzie
was sent to look after it, and there really began his
life's work. A few weeks ago he was the recipient
of a handsome silver tea-service from the Messrs.
Methven, as a memento of his thirty years of
faithful service and friendship. Although business
claimed much of his time, he was at all times
one of the staunchest supporters of the Scottish
Hortictiltural Association, to which he devoted

MR. A. McKEXZlE.

and interesting exhibition in the dead of winter,
and its shows have established the Chrysanthe-
mum in popular favour.

The Association has distributed the sum of
,£3550 in promoting the interests of gardeners and
gardening during the last ten years. In providing
high-class music— for this is as necessary for the
success of the shows as the plants and flowers them-
selves—ithasspeut £3775. On printing, advertising,
and other necessary outlays, such as making the
Waverley Market comfortable and attractive, a
large sum has been expended. The Association has
also devoted to charitable institutions, chiefly
those connected with gardening, £550 ; whilst it
has reserved against unforeseen contingencies the
modest sum of £790. Many will ask what influ-
ences contributed to this large measure of success.
I once asked Mr. McKenzie the same question,
and he promptly replied — "In the first place, to
that love of the beautiful in Alt or Nature which
prevails among all ranks of the inhabitants of
Edinburgh, and it is this alone that draws the
thousands to admire the choice productions of the
gardeners' art, and to listen to good music. The
second cause, I think, will be admitted to be the
facilities afforded by the Waverley Market as a site
for an exhibition." And personally, I must assign
much to the enterprise and liberality of the Council

THE HISTORY OF GARDENS.

Mr. Albert Fokbes Sieveking, F.S.A., delivered
a lecture ou " Gardens ; their History and Litera-
ture," illustrated by limelight pictures, at the
London Institution, on Thursday, January 19-
After defining a garden etyinologically as a "yard,"
but "touched with emotion of poetry," he differ-
entiated the formal or architect's garden (a sort of
open-air extension of the house, with its clipped
hedges and trees of topiarian art) from the natural,
irregular, Chinese, English, or landscape garden,
aud pointed out how Milton had "trimmed" or
' ' hedged " his Garden of Eden between the two
schools. He then showed the design of an ancient
Egyptian garden from a tomb in Thebes. The problem
of the "hanging-gardens" of Babylon he declared to
lie still in "suspension ; " and passing by the ancient
Persian gardens he showed three views of existing
ones, including the Shah's gardens at Teheran. The
gardens of Homer and of the philosopher Epicurus
brought him to the " built " gardeu magnificence
of the Roman Empire, to illustrate which, he
showed Lucullus's villa at Bain?, a trellised garden
from a wall-painting at Herculaneum, aud the
restoration of Pliny the youuger's Tusculan villa
from his own detailed description, and pointed out
how this contained theesseuce of the formal style aud
the germ of the natural or landscape school. Of
monastic gardens he showed a plan of the abbey of
Saint Gall by a monk iu the IXth Century, and pic-
tures of the monasteries of Saint Germain des Pr^s
aud of Ashridge, iu Herts. Medianal gardens
wefe represented from the " Roman de la Rose "
and the "Garden of Love," the earliest known
engraving — Blois and Gaillou aud St. Germain eu
Laye, from Ducerceau's Architecture — and De
Vries's " Hortorum Formae" to illustrate Palissy
the Potter's "Jarelin Delectable." Of early Tudor
gardens he showed the still existing "Pond
Gaideu " at Hampton Court ; aud then, tinning to
Spaiu, he showed pictures of the Alcazar, the
Gcneahfe, andAraujuez, where Velasquez painted.
Italy furnished the terraced gardens of the Villas
d'Este aud Albaui after Pirauesi's engravings, and
Mr. George Elgood's beautiful pictures of the
Villas Borghese Aldo-braudini, Palombo, Giulia,
Lante, and the Boboli Gardens. Of Eliza-
bethan gardens he showed De Caux's Plan
of Wilton (with Taylor, the Water-poet's
eupbuistic description), a plate from Crispin
do Pass's "Hortns Floridus" and Sir Philip
Sidney reclining in the "pleached" garden at Pens-
hurst. Of herbals, the title-page of Gerard's first
edition was shown with brief allusion to the physic
gardens of Europe. De Serre's ' ' Theatre d' Agri-
culture," aud Mollet's "Parterres de Broderies'
led the way to Le Notre's masterpiece at Versailles,
illustrated by Perelle's engravings. John Evelyn
was not forgotten, and the Dutch style was illus-
trated by the garden of the Count de Nassau and
Kip's Hampton Court, with its grand semi-circular
parterre of 9.J acres. Stowe was giveu as left by
Bridgeman aud sung by Pope, oue of the pioneers
of modern gardening. The old gardens of Oxford
and Cambridge, Badminton, Chatsworth, and
Chevening paved the way to the English or
laudscape gardeu, derived from the Chinese
Emperor's " Garden of Gardens," from which the

"willow pattern" plate became the type of
European gardeu, abhorring straight lines, and
substituting park for garden scenery. Horace
Walpole, Kent, " Capability " Brown, aud Hum-
phrey Reptou were all passed in review ; Esher,
" where Kent and Nature vied for Pelham's love,"
being chosen as the typical landscape garden after
Whateley's " Observations ou Modern Gardening."
The symbolical character of Japanese gardens was
pointed out in two examples. Sheustouc was cited
as the exponent of what Mr. Sieveking called the

January 28, 1899.;

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

61

"Jardiu Larmoyant," or Emotional and Senti-
raeutal garden, at the "Leasowes;" and Walter
Scott was praised for holding the balance between
the rival schools, while Gilpin, Uvedale Price, and
Payne Knight re-acted against the extreme theories
of the naturalists.

In addition to the sources named, Mr. Sieveking
was indebted for some of his illustrations to Miss
Amherst's (Mrs. Evelyn Cecil's) History of English
Gardening ; for the views of Persian Gardens, to
Miss Ella Sykes (authoress of Through. Persia on a
Side-Saddle) ; and for some other scarce prints to
Professor Brinckmann, Director of the Hamburg
Museum of Arts and Crafts, who most kindly
placed at Mr. Sieveking's dtsposal a selection from
the unique historical collection of engravings of
gardens, formed by the Museum.

A tribute was paid to Mr. William Robinson's
natural aud wild gardening, and Mr. Blomfield's
and Mr. Inigo Thomas's advocacy of the formal
garden, and Mr. George Elgood's beautiful pictures
illustrated English old-world gardens, and Drum-
moud Castle, Balfour, and Stobhall gardens (by Mr.
Fred Walker, A.R.A.) represented Scotland. The
lecturer took no side in the coutroversy between
the natural and formal styles, preferring a judicious
eclecticism, with the formal garden near the house,
and passing, by harmonious transitions, to the park
or laudscape garden — from perfect art to wildest
nature. He declared his belief that the garden-
lover could not go far wrong if he would let nature
be his religion, beauty and art his creed, and took
for his oracle Pope's verse : " Consult the genius of
the place in all." We understand that an improved
and enlarged illustrated edition of Mr. Sieveking's
Praise of Gardens (which first appeared in 1885, and
has long beeu out of print) will be published by
Messrs. J. M. Dent & Co. in the spring.

PRESENTATION TO MR. ALEX-
ANDER YOUNG, ANNESLEY PARK,
NOTTS.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, January 11, an
interesting ceremony took place at Aunesley Hall,
when Mr. A. Young was made the recipient of a
large portrait of himself, from which our illus-
tration is copied, and a purse containing CtjO, sub-
scribed for by the members of the Chaworth-M listers
family, the tenantry on the Chaworth-Musters
estates of Tithby, Edwalton, and Annesley, together
with other friends at Nottingham aud Annesley.

Four years ago Mr. Young completed his fortieth
year of service at Annesley, aud in memory of this
event he received from his employer, J. P.
Chaworth-Musters, Esq., a handsome silver tea-
service. Through the liberality and consideration
of his employer he has now been able to retire
from active duties, and Mr. George Chaworth-
Musters has taken this opportunity for organising
and carrying out a scheme for showing in a tangible
way the respect in which Mr. Young is held by all
classes.

Mr. Young was born near Coldstream, in Ber-
wickshire, in 1829, and after the usual experiences
as journeyman, was sent by Mr. Macnab, of the
Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh, to Minto House, near
Hawick, under Mr. Williamson, then gardener to
the Earl of Minto. After a short residence there,
acting on Mr. Maenab's advice, he proceeded to
Tynninghame House, the seat of the Earl of Had-
dington, as foremau UDder the late Mr. Lees. He
occupied this post for two and a half years, when he
was appointed head gardener to the late John Cha-
worth-Musters, Esq., and entered on his duties at
Annesley Park Sept. 16, 1855. Under his superiu-
teudence the gardens at Annersley were greatly
enlarged aud beautified, and in 1868 he was
appointed estate steward. This post he held until
August, 1898, when he was succeeded by his sou-in-
law, Mr. \Y. M. Geddes, who was for some years head
gardeuer to the late Earl of Macclesfield, Shirburu
Castle, Oxon ; aud for fourteen years estate stewaul
to Lady Byrou, Thrumptou, Derby.

The subscribers to Mr. Young's testimonial were
eutcrtained at the Hall by Mrs. J. P. Chaworth-
Musters, and the presentation was made by Mrs.
Chaworth-Musters, of Wiverton, who spoke of the
high esteem in which Mr. Young was held by all
classes, his loyalty to his employers, his high
reputation, aDd the good influence exerted by
him upon all with whom he came in contact ; and
said, that the hearty response given to Mr. George
Chaworth - Muster's proposal had beeu most
gratifying.

In replying, Mr. Youug said it had always beeu
a great pleasure to serve the family, and he
thanked most heartily his employers, the tenantry,
and his fellow-servants who had united to do him
such a signal honour. After drinking the health
of Mr. Young, several short speeches were made
by various tenants on the estates, and Mr. Chaworth-
Musters then spoke of his personal indebtedness
to Mr. Young, who had always had the fullest con-
fidence of his father and himself, and expressed
the wish that he might live many years to enjoy
his well-earned rest.

Jl li. ALEXANDER YOUNG.

Home Correspondence.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS FOR BUSH CULTURE. —
There are comparatively few of the Japanese
varieties that are unsatisfactory when treated as
" bush " plants, providing that sufficient thinning
be practised. If exhibition varieties are preferred
for the purpose, the cultivator should aim to
obtaiu plants with from six to twelve shoots,
and thin the flowering-buds to one upon each
shoot. The majority of novelties exhibit a better
habit of growth for the purpose, being sturdier
and shorter, than many of the older ones. It
would be safe to try any Japanese variety as a
bush-plant of the above description, if its height
when grown for the production of exhibition flowers
does not exceed 5 feet. Some of them will give
better results than others, of course, according to
their tendency to flower freely, but there ueed
be few failures. But if bush-pla»ts are required
to produce " sprays " of blooms, then the field
of choice is a less wide one, aud those known as
"decorative" or "market" sorts will give the
greatest amount of satisfaction. The question,
however, suggests itself, whether it is worth while
to choose large-flowering exhibition varieties for a
system of culture in which no thinning is doue.
The result can hardly be other than flowers totally
devoid of character. R. H. P .

EUCALYPTUS IN IRELAND.— It may interest some
of your readers to know that some varieties of
Eucalyptus are hardy in Ireland. In the year 1876
the Earl of Annesley planted in his grounds at
Castlewellan, co. Down, a collection of about two
dozen varieties of Eucalyptus, which did very well
for a few years till the first severe frost set in,
and killed all except three varieties, namely,
E. coccifera, E. cornigera, and E. urnigera. These
varieties have not suffered from frost since they
were planted twenty-three years ago, so I think
they may be looked upon as being hardy. Some of
them are now more than 50 feet in height, and
they flower and seed regularly. A good many
other varieties of Eucalyptus have been planted at
Castlewellan since 1876, and the following species
have stood the severe winters of the past ten years :
E. cordata, E. gomphocephala, E. piperita, E.
resinifera, E. rostrata, and E. saligna. T. Ryan,
The Gardens, Castlewellan.

On p. 43, Mr. A. R Pearce says he has only

known E. Globulus to flower in the open in maritime
counties. It may interest your numerous readers
to know we have two growing in different parts of
the grounds here. They were planted out at the
end of May, 1895, and are now over 35 feet high,
and are freely covered with curious shaped knoba
on last season's growths (shoot enclosed), which I
presume are flower- buds [seed-vessels. Ed.]. The
last three winters have been comparatively mild,
but we have bound the stems for about 10 feet
up each winter with hay-bands. F. Knights, Bittes-
well Halt Gardens, Lutterworth, L< icestt rshire. [The
specimen sent is not E. Globulus ; we will endea-
vour to identify it. Our correspondeut must have
overlooked the flowers produced last summer. Ed.]

MUSHROOMS SPOILED BY OTHER FUNGI.—
Herewith I am sending three Mushrooms attacked
apparently by some other fungus. I have had
several patches, particularly in one bed, but cannot
assign a cause. The dung was, as far as I know,
in good condition, and the soil used for casing was
virgin soil. In all other respects the beds have
done well, the crop being quite up to the average.
The beds from which these Mushrooms were taken
are situated in a vinery lying idle. But I have had
the same thing on the outside beds. It appears to
spread very rapidly, attacking Mushrooms in all
stages of growth, and spreads also after they have
beeu cut and cleaned for market. If you can send
me any advice as to how to cure aud prevent this
disease, I shall feel extremely indebted to you.
/'. Freeman Page, January 7. [To this communi-
cation, which we sent, together with the Mush-
rooms, to Or. M. C. Cooke, we received the following
reply. Ed.]:—

•' Mushrooms received from Mr. Page are diseased in a
manner familiar to us for many years, but which to a con-
siderable ex-tent remains a mystery. The affection presents
itself on the under surface at first, and the gills are covered
and distorted by the development of a white mould, which up
to the present has not produced spores or conidin, although
the inference is that the mould is a conidial stage of a
Sphecriaceous fungus belonging to the genus Hypomvces. All
the species of this genus hitherto known are produced as
parasites on other fungi, such as Agarics, Russula?, Lactarii,
Chantarelles, tus., growing specially on the gills, which are
thereby distorted, and ultimately producing the eapsules
or perithecia of imbedded Sphceria*, resembling Nectria,
enclosing sporidia enclosed in asci. In the present instance
the perfect fruit is unknown, but the mouldy or eonidial
stage Is precisely analogous to that in other species. The
development of this parasite is destructive to the Mushroom,
not oniy spoiling its appearance but so altering its character
as to prevent its use as food. The predisposing cause of this
phenomenon is yet unknown, the spawn being uniformly good,
the culture normal, and the conditions apparently healthy ; and
yet, when the parasite appears it takes possession of the entire
bed, and there is no alternative but to break it up and effectu-
ally destroy the entire bed and its produce, so as to eradicate
all germs of the disease. No efforts have proved successful
in cheeking the disease when once it makes its appearance,
and as the cause remains a mystery prevention is equally impos-
sible. Weare inclined to think that some peculiar conditions of
culture must be the basis of the infection, such as too close
and humid an atmosphere, or some conditions which serve to
lessen the vitality of the Mushrooms and encourage parasi-
tism. From the analogy of other species, growing spontane-
ously, and developing moulds, we have observed that infected
plants grow in unusually damp places, where the water is
stagnant, and that the mould makes its appearance upon
sickly and unhealthy-looking Agarics, but never, as far as we
have seen, upon strong and vigorous hosts. If these observa-
tions are correct, then the only remedy to be found lies in a
closer attention to the conditions of culture rather than to
any deficiency in the soil, or deterioration of the spawn, which
may originally have beeu of the beat quality. M. C. C."

TOMAT08 TRAINED SPIRALLY.— In reply to
"A. D.'s" remarks in the Gardeners' Chronicle,
p. 13, vol. xxv., I suppose he would observe that
the word fine was a printer's error, aud should

62

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 28, 1S99.

have read " those planted in the opeu received
support from five stakes ; " aud as "A. D." justly
remarks, three or more must have been employed to
form the needed columnar support. When "A. D."
visited the garden here three years ago, I remember
his getting quite enthusiastic regarding onr method
of Tomato and Melon cultivation, which was
thoroughly investigated, and which makes me, as
it should also all other readers of the Gardeners'
Chronicle, appreciate the facts supplied by hiin
from time to time. I may inform him that the
crop gathered from the plants trained spirally ou
the open border far surpassed those grown ou the
walls three years ago, so far as I can recollect : but
it must be remembered that the past summer was an
exceptionally good one for the Tomato out-of-doors,
provided a good supply of water was afforded the
plants. I hope as time goes on to see my method
generally adopted ; and I am certain that if
cottagers and allotment-holders were to adopt it,
they would be amply repaid for their trouble aud
labour, as they could gather from their Tomato-
plants fruit for at least three months if the season
were at all favourable. George MacKinlay.

JADOO FIBRE.— I was much interested in the
note on this subject at p. 42, sent from France —
rather far from home for such intelligence, because
it seems to present a somewhat singular pheno-
menon. For here we find a Vine, either origi-
nally absolutely rootless, and later formiug roots
only on the side ou which Jadoo fibre was placed ;
or if having normal roots, then must those ou
the undressed side have turned round to the
dressed side in search of the feast the Jadoo was
supposed to furnish. If that does not iudicate on
the part of Vine-roots a very high order of intel-
ligence, what can do so? Still, we might have
expected, seeing how long the Jadoo fibre has beeu
with us, to have heard of numerous similar cases
at home, where Vine culture is pursued with such
remarkable persistence aud ability. But 999 out
of every 1000 of our Grape growers stupidly
continue to prefer turfy or fibrous loam to Jadoo
fibre for Grape production. Possibly, after reading
the note referred to, we shall find them utilising
Jadoo universally. If they have it not, and lack
fibre, they will find an admirable substitute in
peat-moss soaked with sewage, aud then turned
once or twice, to partially heat and sweeten it
before using it. But as a test of the relative
merits of Jadoo fibre and pure turfy loam in the
culture of Vines, I should like to see a few young
ones put into 12-inch pots with Jadoo only, and
others with turfy loam only and devoid of any
other compound, aud then grown on as ordinary
fruiting canes and fruited the following year.
That would be a description of test of the merits
of these two soil compounds that would admit of
neither amusement nor of scepticism. A. 1).

PEA GRADUS. — As a first-class early wrinkled
Pea this is one of the best in regard to quality,
cropping, and its usefulness for exhibition. The
puds are very large arid well filled, and its height
is 3i feet. I grew a quantity last season, together
with ot.her sorts, on a heavy clay soil, and I con-
sider it worthy of recommendation. A. h'. Pearce,
Bn ymead Gardeni, near Maidenhead.

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE. — My friend,
" A. ]>.," at p. 44, says — "This plant is, I under-
stand, so far asexual (sic), that it produces only
male or bantu (sir) flowers." Well, ''A. D.'s
" asexual," was, I suppose, a slip of the pen for
urn-sexual ; but it would be a poor look-out for our
friends the hybridists and cross- breeders, if eveu
male or polleuiferous flowers were " barren ! " So far
as Begonia ( iloire de Lorraiue is concerned, there are
a good many exceptions to its bearing male flowers
only. That its male flowers are numerically in
excess of the female ones I willingly admit, but
they can be found in most gardens wherein it is
grown, when really sought for. When I saw the
single female flowers ou the plant at C'hiswick on
December 30 of last year, I also thought it rather
uncommon, having never seen one before. On
going to see my friend, Mr. Hudson, at Gun-
nerslmry, I said something about it to him, or one
of his men, and I believe female flowers were found
there. On my return home 1 looked at my own
plants, and found a female flower on a plant in a
basket, though none on plants in pots further from
the glass ; and all other gardeners who grow this
beautiful winter-blooming Begonia to whom I have
spoken on the matter, have found ony or more

female flowers, or seed capsules, wdieu they looked
carefully for them. I should like to hear what Mr.
H. B. May has to say on this point, and whether
female flowers have been noticed on the great
batches of this plant, which he cultivates so well ?
One practical advantage possessed by this plant is,
that it is a constant bloomer, flowering practically
all the year round, and this persistence may be, and
probably is, due in some measure to the compara-
tive paucity of seed-bearing flowers, which leaves
more energy available for the production of male
flowers. Can anyone kindly tell us of the parent-
age of this exquisite Begonia ? Is it a hybrid
between B. socotrana and B. Dregeana, or some
other species ''. Whatever its parentage may be, it
is undoubtedly one of the best winter-flowering
plauts of recent introduction to our gardens. The
whole genus Begonia is a very interesting aud vari-
able one in habit aud foliage, as well as in flowers :
and remembering the all-the-year-round types of
beauty so well shown in the old Begonia-house at
Kew some twenty-five or thirty years ago, I think
if I were rich enough to devote houses to any
special order of plants, I should prefer Bego-
nias to Orchids, eveu for their ever-varyiug phases
of beauty and charm. I believe the day of the
Begonias has yet to come. F. II'. Burbidge.

GRAPE JUDGING. — "Ayrshire Lad'' seems to
find it difficult to understand wdiat is referred to
when 1 receutly wrote, "The judges can with fixed
maximums vary the points." If I had said that
the judges could vary the maximums, it would
have been absurd. But seeing that the regulations
of the Royal Horticultural Society, which control
the Grape judging at Shrewsbury, are easily
understood, and also fixed maximums, wdieu I say
that the judges can vary the points given to each
bunch according to quality, what I convey is that
knowing they cannot in any case give points above
the maximum specified, they can give fewer,
if the bunches shown are of medium or inferior
merit. I think that is clear enough.

Permit me to point out to Mr. Kirk, of

Alloa, who seems alarmed lest in the judgiug of
the decorated great Grape class at Shrewsbury,
in August next, the decorative effort may, in
the judges' estimation, outweigh the cultural
excellence of the Grape, that if he will read the
conditions of the class as found in the show
schedule, he will find that whilst the twelve
bunches may obtain a possible maximum of
110 points, those possible for decoration are limited
to six points only, a very infiuitessimal number of
the whole, aud showing that the effect of the intro-
duced decorative material is rather to help break
up the monotony seeu in long lines of Grapes ou
boards, and not to lend to the fruit any extraneous
and unmerited poiuts. A. D.

WINTER ACONITES. — I note by the correspond-
ence in the Gardeners' Chronicle, that some surprise
has been expressed at the lateness of the flowering
of the Winter Aconite this year. A row of this
plant is growing in these gardens on a Rhododen-
Iron bed facing due south, and opeu flowers were
observed on January 15 ; they were planted five
years, aud this will be the fifth season they have
flowered. They have not been disturbed since they
were planted. II". ffi Bushell, Roicnham Honse
(tit rd fins, Southampton.

In this garden the Winter Aconites opened

their first flowers on the 18th iust. The plants
are growing on a south border. In places about
the gardens where Aconites usually appear, I
caunot find a sinyle flower-hud. I am unable
to say whether Aconites are this year unusually
late, as usually about this date the ground
is more or less covered with snow ; but with its
disappearance towards the eud of the mouth, and
aided by a few sunny days, Aconites have appeared
in abundance. Suowdrops are freely coming into
flower. //. Fish,,-, Flixton Hall Gardens, Bungay,
January 23.

EARLY FLOWERS. — In addition to the other
interesting notes on Winter Aconites and other
flowers which appeared in the Gardeners' Chronicle
for last week, I send you a list of plants in flower
at the present time at Woking : — Hepaticas, single
and double-flowered; Iris stylosa and its white
variety, Omphalodes verna and O. v. alba, Phlox
verna, Galanthus Elwesii, Gcntiana acaulis, a few
solitary flowers ; Primula acaulis, P. a. alba plena,
P. a. lutea plena, P. a. Crousseri plena, aud Tussi-

lago fragrans. The last-named plant has beeu
exceedingly tine this season, owing to the mildness
of the weather, its fragrance being delightful.
Saxifraga Burseriana, Anemone blanda, and Morisia
hypoga'a are in bud. Among shrubs, the following
are noticeable : — Hamamelis (Wych-Hazel), Jas-
minum nudiflorum, and (Jarrya elliptica. The last-
named is exceedingly profuse this season, its
catkins being of great length ; while on a wall I
noticed Forsythia suspensa commencing to expand.
E. Scaplehorn, Woking. [A correspondent from In-
verness sends us Adonis autumnalis in bloom ! Ed.]

SPIR/CA DISCOLOR ( ARI/EFOLIA). -I endorse
all that has been recently published in the Gar-
deners' Chronicle about this species. Mr. Divers'
advice, printed iu your last issue, to plant it in
shady positions, is quite to the purpose. There arc-
several planted here in the shade aud exposed, but
those iu the shade are of a purer white, and keep
fresh longer than the others. He tells us that the
plant does well on cold clay soil at Bel voir, but in
reality they do not seem to be particular as to soil.
We are situated on limestone, and some of our
plants are about 14 feet in height, and they bloom
profusely every year. D. Elkins, Trewsbury Gardens,
Cirencester.

CURIOSITIES OF ORCHID
BREEDING.

(Concluded firm p. 87.)

Fertility of Hybrids. — The question of the
fertility of hybrids is a highly interesting one, and
especially importaut to the student of evolution ;
aud I venture to think that recent experiments in
Orchid hybridisation have added considerably to
our knowledge of the subject.

One of the principal objections to Darwin's theory
of the origiu of species was the supposed general
sterility of hybrids.

Darwin fully appreciated this difficulty, and,
after a careful and most elaborate survey ef the
whole question of hybridism, came to the following
conclusions: — "First crosses betweeu forms suffi-
ciently distinct to be ranked as species, and their
hybrids are very generally, but not universally
sterile. . . . The sterility is of all degrees "
(Origin <•/ Species, 6th ed., p. 262). Again:—
"The sterility of distinct species, when first
united, and that of their hybrid offspring, graduates
by an almost infiuite number of steps from zero
(when the ovule is never impregnated, and a seed
capsule is never formed) up to complete fertility.
This high degree of fertility is, however,
rare" (Animals inn/ Plants, 2nd ed., vol. ii., p. 163\
Some fifteen years later, Dr. Alfred Rnssel
Wallace took up a somewhat similar but more
definite position. He writes : "One of the greatest ,
perhaps we may say the greatest, of all the
difficulties in the way of acceptiug the theory of
natural selection as a complete explanation of the
origin of species, has been the remarkable differenoe
between varieties and species iu respect of fertility
when crossed. Generally speaking, it may be said
I hat the varieties of any one species, however
different they may be in external appearance,
are perfectly fertile when crossed, aud their mon-
grel offspring are equally fertile when bred among
themselves ; while distiuct species, on the other
hand, however closely they may resemble each
other externally, are usually infertile when crossed,
aud their hybrid offspring absolutely sterile" (/)(»'•
winism, 1890", p. 152). Since that time, hundreds
of hybrid Orchids have been raised in gardens. As
we have already seeu, there are uow on record
some 500 distinct primary hybrids raised from dis-
tiuct species ; also some 300 secondary aud tertiary
hybrids from distinct crosses, raised from parents
themselves hybrids.

In the face of these facts, therefore, we can hardly
maintain that "distinct species . . . are usually
infertile when crossed," and still less can we assert
that " their hybrid offspnug are absolutely sterile."
As it is with Orchids, so it is with other garden
plants that have been hybridised, e.g., Roses, Rho-
dodendrons, Dahlias, Chrysanthemums, Carnations,

W*

January 28, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

63

Begonias, Pausies, &e. ; the wonderful forms seen
in gardens at the present day are all hybrids of
many generations, being the known product of more
than one species, and these are all fertile in the
production of seeds. Darwiu seemed to attach
much importance to the different degrees of fertility
in hybrids, ranging from complete fertility down to
absolute sterility. At present we have no means
of ascertaining the relative fertility of hybrid
Orchids with that of ordinary species, owing partly
to the fact that \*ery few crosses have been made in
gardens between varieties of the same species, aud
partly to the fact that many thousands of seeds are
contained in one capsule, being practically innumer-
able. But through the kindness of Mr. Reginald
Young, of Liverpool — an enthusiastic connoisseur
in Cypripediums -the writer has been aide to work
out certain statistics bearing on the question of the
comparative fertility of hybrids (see Jourri. Hoi/.
Hurt. Soc, vol. xxi., April, 1898).

The voluminous records in Mr. Young's stud-
book cover a period of about five years, and were
specially selected by the writer on account of the
reputation of the breeder as a careful observer and
a precise recorder. Out of the n~~ crosses made by
Mr. Young, among thirty distinct species and fifty-
three distinct hybrids of the new genus Paphio-
pedium, no less than 7-S:? per cent, proved fertile,
i.e., produced good seeds.

of these, the crosses between distinct species
ouly, 95"2 per cent, were fertile, while the crosses
in which a hybrid was concerned in the parentage,
7 1 'S per cent, proved fertile.

This seems to show that crosses between distinct
species are almost if not quite as fertile as crosses
between varieties of the same species (taking the
latter at complete fertility, i.e., 100 per cent.) ;
while crosses with hybrids, though fertile to a high
degree, are yet rather less fertile than crosses
l> itween species. A further analysis of the figures
shows, that while hybrids crossed with pollen of
pure species give 89'5 per cent, fertile, yet pure
species crossed with pollen of hybrids give but
56'7 per cent, fertile. This points to the con-
clusion that the slight decline in the fertility of
hybrids is due in a large m lasnre to the loss of
I ower in the pollen of hybii Is.

Why the male elemeut in hybrids should be so
much less potent than th« female element I cannot
pretend to say.

Evolution op Species by Natubal

Hybridisation.

The experimental demonstration of natural
hybrids shows clearly that intercrossing between
different species is carried on in a state of Nature
to a far greater extent than was formerly supposed ;
and the comparative fertility of these natural
hybrids would lie of vital importance to them in
their struggle for life.

If, as seems highly probable from the above
experiments with Orchids, it is tin- pollen only of
hybrids that is impaired, and the capacity of the
hybrid to bear seed crossed with the pollen of pure
species remains practically unimpaired, it is quite
clear that the natural hybrid has a part to play in
the evolution of new species.

As we have already seen, hybridisation tends to
increase variation, especially beyond the first gene-
ration ; and, naturally, the more variable the
offspring, the better fitted would they be to adapt
themselves to changed conditions of life.

If the circumstances changed rapidly and con-
siderably, the variable offspring of the hybrids
would stand a better chance iu the struggle for life
than the more uniform offspring of the parent
species, which were themselves specially adapted
to the old conditions. In this way, as conditions
changed, new species would be evolved more fitted
to the new conditions of life than the old species,
which they would gradually replace, and I venture
to suggest that natural hybridisation is the most
rapid of Nature's means towards that end. 0. C.
Hunt, in '■ Xiii an ."

SOCI ETI ES.

LINNEAN.

DECEMBER 15. — Mr. H. J. Elwes, F.R.S., F.L.S., gave an
account of the Zoological and Botanical results of a recent
journey to the Altai Mountains.

As regards the Zoology of the particular district explored
by him, little was previously known ; for with the exceptions
of Major Cumberland, Mr. St. George Littledale, whoaccom-
panied Prince Demidofl'last year, and Mr. Rew, who travelled
very rapidly through the country rid Kuznetsk anil Kobdo to
Irkutsk, no Englishman had in recent years visited the Altai,
or written on the natural history of that region. He under-
stood by the tenn " Altai," the western extension of the great
m 'ii>ii dn-range which is entirely cut off by the Desert of
Mongolia and the Irtysch Valley, from the Mountains of
Turkestan, the Himalayas, and all the great mountain-ranges
of Central Asia, though it extends under the name of the
Siyansk Mountains as far east as Like Baikal.

< >ne of Ins chief objects was to visit the head- waters of the
Yenisei, almost unknown even to the Russians ; a great valley
300 miles wide by 200 miles long, scarcely inhabited, and
almost unknown. Mis journey commenced practically at
MiKt'nw, in the middle of May. and extended from the Ural
-Mountains through Omsk to tin- River Obij across a vast and
unvarying steppe to Busk, where his natural-history collecting
began. After describing the general appearance of the
country and tic vegetation, Mr. Elwes stated thai he had
brought home about ISO species of butterflies out of a possible
200 (of winch 141 had been collected by himself), and 80
species of moths.

As regards plants, finding the Mora pretty well known
through the labours of Ledebour, Bunge and Tehihateheff, he
thought it preferable to colled the plants of a small typical
valley rather than attempt a general collection made ;it
random. Unfortunately, owing to an accident when crossing
a river, the greater part of that collection was lost. He was
much struck with the extraordinary beauty and abundance of
the alpine plants in certain marshy valleys Irom 0000 to 7500
feet in altitude. There was a remarkable absence of peat-
plants, and hardly any Ferns were seen in the Tclmja Valley
between the Katuna River and the upper Tclmja Steppe, a
plateau about 0000 ft. above the sea, smith of which tin- greater
part of the observations were made. From this plateau he
journeyed to the high mountains of the south in quest of the
famous wild Bheep, < >\ i- amnion of Pallas, of which he
secured three specimens, winch were now exhibited, one having
a measurement, of 62 inches round the curve of the horn,
Which is about the largest on record for this species. He
mentioned the searcety of gam '-birds in the Altai, though
Tetraogallus altaicus was often seen at an elevation of
8000 to 9000 feet, accompanying the [beac (Capra slbiriea) as in
the Himalayaand ducasns. H^ mentioned the breeding on
the mountain lakes of Oidemia St^jnegeri, a North 1'' :il
species allied to our velvet scoter.

The Great stag of the Altai, of which several heads were
shown, was evidently an Asiatic form of the Wapiti, the
antlers having a remarkably long fourth tine, and the peculiar
bach line at the top, characteristic of the American animal,
and not observable in the European red deer. These were
compared with four adult pairs of horns of the Mantchurian
Cervus Liihdorfl, which had beeu kindly sent to him by the
Duke of Bedford. Though much smaller than either the
American or Altai stag, these horns showed the same typical
Wapiti character, and it appeared as though the races inha-
biting the N.W. coast nf America and the N.E. coast-region of
Asia more closely resembled each other than they did the
other races of their own continent.

He exhibited a series of heads of the Siberian roedecr, w hich
were compared with typical heads of the European roedeer,
from which it was considered specifically distinct.

DEVON AND EXETER GARDENERS.

January is.— At the meeting held on the above date at
Exeter. Mr. R. W. Hodder, gr. to Mrs. Trevor Barclay,
Fousonby, Torquay, gave a paper on "The Fungus Pest< of
Our Gardens. '

Mildew was described as subsisting on the leaf-tissues of its
host, as when removed by any of the common remedies it did
not reappear from the same mycelium, though a fresh attack
might come from the original source. In this way mildew-
was not such a dreaded pest as other fungus diseases. The
ilamping-off of seedlings (psendo-comml6)[rj was shown to be
the result of an attack of fungus, and it was advised that not
only should the plants so attacked be at once removed, but
that the soil under and around them should also be taken
away, to prevent a spread of the disease. If the plants were
under glass, a drier atmosphere should be given them. For
mildew on Onions, a good dusting with soot early in the
morning was recommended, when the foliage was damp ; or,
in very dry weather, a gentle spraying with water, and then
a dusting with soot. Another remedy was to dilute sulphide
oi potassium into a paste by adding water, and applying it to
plants so attacked.

As a remedy for the Carnation-disease, the following recipe
was given :— Dissolve 3 lb. sulphate of copper in Ik gal. of
boiling water, stirring well until the copper is dissolved.
Then, with this liquid slake half a bushel of lime, or as much
lime as is necessary to bring it to a fine powder. Dust the
plants with this powder, and, forty-eight hours afterwards,
svriuge them with clean water. Repeat the application to

any plants still showing "spot." Referring to the Potato-
disease, the burning ot the haulm after the lifting of the
crop was insisted upon as a preventive to its perpetuation.
Treating the seed-tubers with any of the well-known fungi-
cides was also recommended as a means of prevention of the
disease. The most effectual remedy yet discovered for Potato-
disease was the Bordeaux Mixture. Where " finger-and-toe "
appears, the crop had better b» burned outright, and the land
cropped for the next two or three years with something
entirely different, so as to starve out the disease. As a pre-
vention of leaf-blight in Tomatos, there should be a perfect
circulation of air in the house, nothing conducing more to the
blight than stagnation of wir. Fresh soil every year was
recommended.

Chrysanthemum Leaf-ri st.
After giving his experience with many remedies, the lecturer
said the most effectual of all was a mixture he prepared as
follows;— Boil 1 lb. of whale-oil soap in a J-gallon of water
until the soap is thoroughly dissolved. To this add 1 gallon
of best petroleum. Boil, and keep boiling, for ten to ttfteen
minutes, stirring all the while, until the liquid is of the con-
sistency of gruel, then add a lump of 2 to 3 oz. of ammonia
carbonate When cold, put into jars for future requirements.
For use, mix one part of the emulsion with fifteen parts of
water, and spray the plants with it once every three or four
weeks. He thought all fish manures should be avoided in
Chrysanthemum culture, as in moist weather they engendered
mildew on the plants. In using the remedy suggested, Mr.
Hodder said it should not be applied to cuttings until they
were well rooted, and he did not think it would be necessary
to apply it when the plants are in flower.

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT
GARDENERS.

January is.— The annual meeting was held in the Parish

Room, the President, H. NlCIIOLL, Esq.. of Pear Place, being
in the chair. Nearly every member was present.

The minutes of the last meeting were confirmed, and the
officers and committee for the present year were eh-etcd ;
after which the Hon. Secretary (Mr. H. Coleby) read the
annual report, reviewing the work of the Association for the
sar. Mr. J. W. Groves (Hon. Treasurer) read the
financial statement, which showed a good balance in hand.
The Treasurer was authorised to pay t he prize-money to the
various exhibitors. Mr. W. Pope had gained the highest
number of points.

\ paperwas read by Mr. F. Pether, gr. to F. Lahk, Esq.,
Wargrave, on the " Cull me of the Primula." He advocated
the double-flowering varieties as useful for providing flowers
for cutting, and the single-flowering varieties for us<- as deco-
rative plants. Cultural directions were given for seed-sowing,
potting, and their subsequent management.

Mr. \v. Pope exhibited a nice group of Cyclamens, and Mr.
Prtfier som ■ excellent Primulas.

FRENCH NATIONAL CHRYSAN-
THEMUM.

Considering the very short time this Society has been r.
existence, the executive have every reason to be proud of the
progress the Society has made. L< ChrytfintJlbM, the Official
organ of the Society, has been regularly published, and has
now reached its twenty-fourth number. The membership has
passed a total of 500, inclusive of thirty-one affiliated Societii s.
Three Conferences have been held, at which important
questions relating t<> the popular flower have been dealt with ;
and judging by the balance-sheet now presented there remains
in hand a sum equal to nearly £50 in English money.

In the December number of he Chr^nuihhne, which eon-
tains about 70 pages of printed matter, we find a list of
newly-elected members, some short notes on different topics
connected with Chrysa nthemums, the concluding portion ol
M. Salete's report of the Royal Aquarium Show last November,
and a rather full account of the proceedings at the Troyes
Conference, with the text of the papers read and discussions
arising thereout. Such a publication as this must of
necessity greatly interest members living at a distance from
the seat of the Society's operations, and might well be
imitated by other and older Chrysanthemum societies here in
England. C. H. P.

NORTH PECKHAM AMATEUR

CHRYSANTHEMUM.

January 21. — At the annual meeting held on the 'above

date it was stated that the income of this Society, which was
established in 1894, was £172 lis. 3d.

There is a balance in hand of over £50, and numerous special
prizes are being contributed for competition next November.

CHESTER PAXTON.

January 21.— The first usual fortnightly meeting of the year
was held in the Grosvenor Museum on the above date, when
Mr. E. Stubbs, gardener to Mrs. Hi'dsox, Baehe Hall, read a
paper upon " Chrysanthemums." In the absence of the
President, Mr. J. Jackson presided.

Mr. Stubbs has for some years been recognised as one of the
most successful Chrysanthemum growers in the district, he
having upon various occasions earned oft the highest honours for

04

THE GAR DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[January 28, 1S99.

Chrysanthemums at the society's annual exhibition. Tt was
from an exhibitor's point of view that Mr. Stubb's dealt
chiefly with his subject; and in the course of his remarks he
gave in minute detail his methods of culture, which were
greatly appreciated by those who were present. An interest-
ing discussion followed, in which other growers took part ; and
the meeting closed with a very hearty vote of thanks to Mr.
Stllbbs for Ins careftlly-prepared paper.

THE ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORI-
CULTURAL.

January 24.— The annual general meeting was held at 2 p.m.
on the ahove date in the Y.M.C.A.'s Rooms, St. Andrew's
Street, Edinburgh. The president, Colonel Bayley, occupied
the chair, and among those present were the Earl of Mans-
field, who succeeded Colonel Bayley in the presidentship;
Mr. Monro Fergusson, of Nuvar; M. P. Sheriff Mackay, The
Hon. George Waldgrave, Sheriff; Mr. John Methven, Mr. W.
Welsh, Liberton ; Mr. Cork, Armiston : Mr. Pitcauthly, Scone ;
Mr. David Laird, Mr. M'Kinnon, Mr. Loney, Mr. Dunn, and a
large number of foresters and others interested in forestry,
including three ladies.

Thirty-eight new members were elected, bringing up the
total membership to S02, fifty-nine new ones having been
added during the year. We will refer further to this meeting
ui \t week.

Fruit from the Cape Colony.— Mr. George

Monro, Covent Garden, writes : — "In reference to
iIm ..rticle referring to the arrival of Cape fruit,
t lie importations are much earlier this year than
last, as I received Plums on the lGth inst., and
have both Peaches and Plums in the Scott, which is
due oil Friday, January 27. Plums on the 16th
made 6s. per dozen, which is, I think, a record
price."

©bituan?.

George Lambert. — We regret to record the
death of Mr. George Lambert, at the advanced age
of eighty-oue years. For forty-nine years he had
charge of the gardens and woods at Oakwood,
Chichester, for the late John Baring, Esq. The
deceased as a young man was principally engaged
in landscape-work for Messrs. Page, nurserymen,
of Southampton ; and on the completion of the
various alterations at Oakwood, superintended by
him, he was offered and accepted the position of
gardener and forester at that place. Forty years
ago he was a well-known exhibitor of vegetables,
fruit, and especially of Show and Fancy Pelar-
goniums and herbaceous Calceolarias, at Chichester,
Brightou, and the Crystal Palace Shows. His
eldest surviving sou is gardener at Powis Castle,
and an occasional correspondent of this journal.

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. II. E. Kehnkdy, lately employed at Halton, Bucks, as
Head Gardener and Steward to Sir Alfred West, Bart.,
Kilcroney, Br;iy, near Dublin.

Mr. E. G. Wheeler, for the past eleven years Gardener to
A. J. Lewis, Esq., Moray Lod^e, Kensington, as Gar-
dener to D. W. FRESHFrELP, Esq., Kidbrooke Park,
Forest Row, Sussex.

Mr. A. Youno, for nearly five years Head Gardenerat Marston
House, Frome, has been engaged by Sir J. Heathcote
Amorv, Bart., Knightsayes Court, Tiverton, Devon, in a
similar capacity, and enters on his duties on February 0
next.

Mr. Marshall has succeeded Mr. Miller as Gardener to the
Earl of Craven, Combe Abbey, Coventry.

Mr. J. Swanwick, for the past five and a half years Gardener
to C. II. Oaks, Esq., Holly Hurst, Riddings, as Head
Gardener to C. Tylden Wright, Esq . Mauperley Hall,
Nottingham.

Mr. G. D. Chishoi.m, for the past six years Gardener to Ma;or
Middleton, Acaeia, Roundhay, Leeds, as Gardener to
Mrs. Illinoworth, Thornton-le-street, Thirsk, Yorks.

Mr. William Harrison, formerly Foreman at Shirburn Castle
Gardens, Wallingford, Oxon, as Head Gardener to Col.
Archer Houblon, Hallingbury Place, Bishop's Stortford,
E-sex.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

W. Shand, New Street, Lancaster — Seeds.

Geo. Coolino & Sons, 11, Nortligate Street, Bath— Seeds.

W. Smith & Son, Exchange Seed Warehouses, Aberdeen-
Seeds.

Hoopbr & Co., Central Avenue, Covent Garden, London,
W.C.— Seeds.

J. Backhouse & Son, Ltd., York— Seeds, <fce.

B. R. Davis, Yeovil Nurseries, Yeovil, Somerset— (1), Seeds,
&e. ; (-2), Begonias.

Thomas Imrie & Sons, 123, High Street, Ayr— Seeds.

Collins Bros. <fc Gahriei., 39, Waterloo Road, London, S.E,
— Seeds, &c.

W. J. Watson, Ltd., Town Hall Buildings, Neweastle-on-

Tyne — Seeds, &c.
Cunningham & Wvllie, 98, Mitchell Street, Glasgow — Seeds.
W. Walters & Co., 707. High Street, Leytonstone, London —

Wood Roller Blinds for Shading Glasshouses.
W. F. Laird & Sinclair, Dundee and Cupar, Fife— Seeds.
W. Ati.ee, Burpee St Co., Philadelphia, Pa., U.S.A.— Seeds.
W. Watt, Cupar and Perth, N.B.— Seeds.
Dokir & Mason, 22, Oak Street, Manchester— Seeds.

KoHLMANNSLEHNER ifc SCHWENKE, Hauptstrasse, 130and 131,

Berlin — Seeds, &c.
Vallerand Bros., 28, Avenue Faidherbe, Asnieres, Seine,

and 23, Rue de Vaucelles,Taverney (S. et O.)— Seeds, &c.
Vilmorin-Andrieux Si Co., 4, Quai de la Megisserie, Paris —

General Catalogue of Seeds.
William Lickley, 12, Queen Street, Carmarthen— Seeds, &e.

Books: Nemo. Lindley's School Botany (Bradbury,
Agnew & Co.).

Cape Gooseberry : C. B. See an article in our
number for September 18, 1897, p. 202.

Dark-coloured Honey: Lucy M. Baines. Dark
sections are always a very difficult thiug to dis-
pose of, and the past year has been very
exceptional in that respect. The best way is to
extract them, because now honey dark-coloured
can be more easily disposed of ; it can also be
used for making candy-cake if no sale can be got
for it after it has beeu ruu out.

Diseased Seakale : W. S. II. The roots sent
appear to be healthy, except in the blackened
parts you mention. In these black parts a fungus
is everywhere present, and is the only likely
source of mischief we can find. Owing to the
position of the fungus near the sap-carrying
vessels, it could easily extend upwards into the
young growths. You could propagate from
the stock by using parts free from black ;
place them in good fresh soil, and other-
wise keep the new crop carefully away from
the old.

Durham, Northumberland and Newcastle-
upon-Tyne Horticultural Society: IT. Fid-
ford. J. I. Gillespie, Jun., secretary, Cross
House Chambers, \Vestgate Road, Newcastle.

Moles and Tennis Lawn : D. II. 1). There
remains nothing but trapping ; or watching the
animals at work, and throwiug them out of the
soil with a dock-spud.

Names of Fruits : ./. P. <£• Sons. Apple : Dume-
low's Seedling. — /. M. Apple : Striped Beefing.
— /. 67. Apple : Mere de Menage.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so (jood as to consult
the following number. — .V. G. Dendrobium
aureum, oftentimes called D. heterocarpum, a
very pretty flower, with much fragrance. — 'I'm-.
Muscari racemosum, Starch Hyacinth, British.
— Dr. H. M. 9, Abies grandis ; 10, Retinospora
squarrosa of gardens ; 11, RetiDospora plumosa
of gardens, both these are forms of Cupressus
pisifera ; 12, Cupressus macrocarpa ; 13, Cupres-
sus Goweniana ; 14 Juniperus chinensis ; 15,
Abies magnifica, it may be the tine variety called
shastensis. Iu the absence of cones, these identi-
fications are more or less conjectural, but we have
compared them with our specimens. — ('. B. The
plant of which you now send cones is Cupressus
lusitanica, the Cedar of Goa. The name formerly
given in the absence of cones was wrong. Without
thefruit the identification of Conifers must be con-
jectural. The cones will be ripe iu a few weeks
apparently, aud the seeds should be sown in
spring in light open soil, in pans iu the greenhouse,
and pricked out as soon as the plants are big
enough to handle. It will not be hardy so far
north. — J. M., Nottingham. 1, Asparagus; 2,
Fittonia argyroneura ; 3, F. Pearcei ; 4, Davallia
bullata ; 5, Rohdea japonica variegata. — A. C.
Muehlenbeekia complexa, a hardy trailing-plaut.
— W. G. S. Calanthe vestita luteo-oculata.—
W. W. A bad flower of La?lia auceps. —
IF. II. I). 1, Begonia Dregii ; 2, B. Digswel-
liana ; 3, B. Ingrami. — R. G. W. A form of
Calanthe X Veitehi, remarkably distinct from
that generally cultivated. — South Wales. Cryp-
tomeria japonica. — Amateur. Adonis ru'tira-
Balis,

Nottinuham Catchfly : C. B. Herbaceous peren-
nial, 2 to 3 feet high, with viscid oblong leaves,
and loose panicles of drooping flowers ; grows on
the cliffs, near Dover. Its Latin name is Silene
nutans.

Palms Damaged : C. J. The specimens sent show
some error or accideut in the cultivation. The
appearance of the foliage suggest that they have
been kept too cold at the roots, and too hot
overhead. Or they may have been watered with
some strong chemical manure.

Seeds : O. B. So far as we can tell, the seeds are
those of some Lily. Another time, please write
separate questions on separate pieces of paper.
To mix up numerous questions on different
subjects on one piece of paper is to give us more
trouble than is necessary.

Strawberries Dving Off: W. W. The roots
and roots-stocks sent show injury from insects,
probably weevil grubs, and weevils themselves,
although we could only discover young earth worms
in the package. Will you kindly send other plants,
taking them up with a ball of earth, packing
them securely iu a box, when, if insects, grubs,
&c, are found therein, we may be enabled to
identify them. In any case, the plants are not
likely to be of any service, and they should be
dug out of the land intact, and thrown ou the
garden "smother- heap," so as to make sure that
they are destroyed. Then afford the land a
dressing of quick or gas-lime. If the dressiug of
the latter be a heavy one, let the land lie fallow
for six months, or trench it three spits deep, so
that a vegetable crop may be taken at an earlier
period. Permanent wire protection over Straw-
berry-beds may have some advantage over
fishing-nets ; but the evils that follow the shut-
ting out of the insect-eating birds, more than
counterbalance them. If you do not remove this
wire-netting entirely, the birds might be allowed
access to the area covered by leaving the curls
and sides open at all seasons except the fruiting
one.

Tomato-seed Cleaning : //. If. /,'. There is no
better method than to let the fruits decay to a
considerable extent before washing out the seeds,
which is then very readily done in a fine wire
sieve, held over a tub tilled with warm water.
If the fruit is allowed to decay in a cold place
there is no chance of the seeds germinating hi the
pulp.

Tuberoses : //. / J. It does not pay to grow on
the offsets till they come to flowering age. It
can be done, doubtless, iu the warmest parts of
the country, but imported roots are so cheap,
that it is scarcely worth the trouble. Forced
bulbs are of little use, offsets being weakened by
the forciug they have undergone ; although off-
sets from plants grown cool might not suffer
deterioration.

Violets : J. L. Better few and good than a great
number of varieties. Early, single: California,
Devoniensis, Victoria Regina (very early), The
Czar, Princess of Wales. Dotdile : Comte de
Brazza (white, fragrant, large), De Parma, Lady
Hume Campbell (late), Marie Louise (lavender-
blue and white), Neapolitan (mid-season).

"Worms" in Manure: //. O. E. Species of
Gordius. These creatures exist ou decaying
substances, and, like the millipedes (Julus), they
are not injurious to living vegetation.

Communications Received.— Fieeman Page. — A. F. S.—

A. W.— Richmond Horticultural Society, secretary's u e

illegible— G. M— G. N. — M. C C. — H. ]>.. Sydney.—

F. W. 15.— U. E., Naples. — T. B. — Prof. Sargent, Boston.—
Fischer de Walilheini, St. Petersburg.— G UeggS — R. J. A.
— C. L. IS.— W. B. G.— S. Heaton.— W. K."— L. E. B.—

G. McKinley — .I.|B. Sowerby.— T. E. S.— D. T F —J U —
It. 1).— J. Baxter— J. L.— E. M.— G. W.— H. T M.-G. G.
— H. W. W.- R. Craig.— J. Kislingbury.-A S. W — G. B.—
.1. E. K.

Specimens and Photooraphs Received with Thank- —
R. Gill.— G. M.

Important to Advertisers. — The Publisher has

tiit satisfaction <\f announcing that the circulation af the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, sit/re the reduction in the
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle" circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation, and that it is
preserved for reference in all the principal Libraries.

{For Markets and Weather, see p. x.)

I'KliltCARV 4, lSy9.J

TEE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

65

£ g^MBfiffi&i

THE

(S'HwUttertf ^Itrcntcle

tfo. G32.— SATURDAY, FEB. 4, 1899.

ROME.

THK FLORA OF THE COLOSSEUM.
— I was told before visiting Rome
again, after an absence of some years, that
a very sad change would present itself to
me, and this in more ways than one, which
must be seen to be realised. This anticipa-
tion has been fulfilled to the letter. When
you come in from the north b)' the railway,
and still more when you begin to wander
about the place on arrival, you see at a glance
how different the "setting" of the whole thing
now is from what it used to be, and how much
there is to be deplored. A great sea of houses
quickly run up, badly finished, and far from
being all occupied, gives a mournful aspect to
the city. If ever speculation has run riot in
this world it certainly has done so in Rome, to
the detriment of every interest that was con-
cerned. But while so much must be said in a
very lugubrious strain, there is an infinitely
comic incident that is mingled with it. It is
absolutely true that some of these miserable
houses <>f which I have spoken, have never
come to completion, and that Ivy, which is ever
on the alert to cover up all deformity, has
seized on these buildings, and has thrown over
them a sort of air of antiquity, and made them
respectable in spite of themselves. But did Ivy
ever have to fulfil such an office before I It has
given a sort of stamp of age to the erections of
yesterday, which are modern in every sense of
the word ; they have actually become ruins
before they have been anything else. But if
these lamentable rows of ill-finished houses
offend and sadden you, there is one great shock
which goes beyond all others, and which com-
pletely beggars description in the sight of the
Colosseum in its present abject and dishonoured
condition, it used to be so touchingly beautiful ;
indeed, "shock" is no word for the mental
surprise and the feelings of keen regret when the
well-known spot is revisited. "The vegetation
has been torn away from the Colosseum." I
could hardly believe my eyes when I saw the
very same object which used to have such a
tender and pathetic appearance, now standing
up against the sky. gaunt, naked, and even cruel
in the sort of demeanour which it has — I use
the last adjective with intent, as it so graphi-
cally describes the present hai'3h condition of
the Colosseum, and one now realises (as you
could not under the old state of things) the
barbarous use for which the building was
originally intended. It is this aspect of savagery
which offends one so dreadfully, its very worst
side is put foremost, and all the hallowing asso-
ciations, the ennobling victories of faith of which
it was the scene, are forgotten entirely ; the plants
and the trees, the shrubs and the Ferns, which
used to live there so lovingly and thrive in such
delicious abundance, were serviceable not only

for it. Now that

the place, ami I

again after a great

assistance of the

for their own intrinsic beauty, but they threw
as it were a veil over the dreadful deeds of the
past, and the events came down to you in such
a softened way, you could bear to think of
them. But all that is altered. The Colosseum
seems now to say — and as far as it goes, it says
nothing else at all — here bloodshed in ten
thousand instances was rife, here tyranny went
to every imaginable excess, and these bare walls,
as they are crumbling into dust, record some of
the vilest usages of mankind. < >f beauty, as
beauty, there is very little left to discover ; and
a writer in the Times only a very short time ago,
though he used an unpleasant simile, was not
at all going too far when he said that the
Colosseum of Rome " looks at present like a
great decayed tooth, both in form and in
colouring." It may be added to this, that it
is suggestive of a fang in the uses to which it
was applied. I sometimes wonder what Lord
Byron would say if it were given to him to behold
the object .which he loved so well. I know
what he would not say : " A noble wreck in
ruinous perfection."

Years ago, when I last spent a winter in
Rome, I well remember the interest which was
taken in the flora of the Colosseum. One of
the English physicians in residence here worked
it up well, and Dr. Deakin's little book was of
great use to all who cared
book is all but forgotten
could only get a sight of it
deal of trouble by the kind
Vice-Consul, who gave me an introduction to
the authorities of the Collegio Romano, where
an old copy was disinterred. Dr. Deakin in
his lifetime was worried by the premonitory
symptoms of the flood of vandalism which was
so soon to set in ; but he never thought how
far it would rise, for he says in his preface to
the Flora of Hi'' Colosseum of Rome, May, 1855 :
"The collection of the plants and the species
noted has been made for some years, but since
that time many of the plants have been de-
stroyed by the alterations and restorations that
have been made in the ruins — a circumstance
that cannot but be lamented. To prevent a
further falling is mo3t desirable ; but to carry
the restorations and the brushing and cleaning
to the extent to which it has been subjected,
instead of leaving it in its wild and solemn
grandeur, is to destroy the impression and
salutary lesson which so magnificent a ruin is
calculated to make upon the mind." These
words now read almost as if they were pro-
phetic ; but they are left far behind in the
wholesale destruction that has ensued. It
would be enough to make Dr. Deakin turn in his
grave if he could now see things as they
really are.

Of course, there might have been some con-
solation in the thought that an imperious
necessity had brought all this about ; but even
this is denied to us. It is gravely asserted
by competent persons (see p. 17 of Walks in
Rome, by Augustus Hare), that so much harm
accrued to the building by the ruthless manner
in which the plants and shrubs were exter-
minated, that a like deterioration would not
have occurred in 500 years if they had been
left to themselves. No discrimination of any
sort was displayed, and tender flowers, as much
as strongly-rooting shrubs, were alike torn up
and destroyed.

The Colosseum of Rome is a grand place in
its capacity for embracing the most varied vege-
tation. It is, I believe, a fact, that there are
6 or 7 acres available in it for the cultivation of
shrubs and plants, though it does not look so

to the eye — or, at any rate, to my eyes. Dr.
Deakin gives that as the estimate ; and I asked
his successor, in the way of interest in the
Flora of the Colosseum — Mr. Dwight Benton —
of whom more anon, what he thought on this
point, and he said that he endorsed the asser-
tion, for if all the available places, the steps
and the corridors, the walls and the passages,
were spread out upon a level, they would
amount to nothing less. But these G or 7 acres
are arranged so that the idiosyncrasies of all
sorts and kinds of plants are provided for.
Variety is predominant ; and not only is it the
case that there are innumerable nooks and
corners where the rays of the sun can hardly
penetrate, but high up in the walls there are
cracks and crevices which are exposed to the
fiercest blaze that could be imagined, and
between these two there are all sorts of grada-
tions and differences, so that if a plant were ill
at ease in one situation, it soon found out
another, where it got all that it could desire.
And in the case of some few plants which can
manage to live anywhere, such as the common
Speedwell, there seems to be a kind of differ-
ence of habit which they have assumed, accord-
ing to the elevation at which they grow, or the
low-lying spot in which they have found a
home. Dryness and wetness, a thin or a deep
soil, exposure to the winds of Heaven, or a
delicious shelter in many a favoured nook, heat
and cold, all these, and other considerations, I
should imagine, have made the Colosseum to be
the finest "Linmea" in the world, for it might
be a chosen home for some of the most beautiful
shrubs and plants that could be named. It is a
fact that in Dr. Deakin's time no fewer than
420 different species were here congregated
together. Now, if twenty of these, which were
rather strong-growing, such as Figs, Olives,
and Cherry - trees, had been condemned, at
least 41 Ml might have been left unmolested
to live on, and would have done no harm
whatsoever.

That some idea may be given of the floral
treasures of which the Colosseum was full, let
the few following names be taken at random
out of many others. Here were found Anemone
hortensis, Geum urbanum, Dianthus prolifer,
Viola odorata, Vicia cracca. Cyclamen hederee-
folium, Arabia, Draba, Cheiranthus cheiri,
Rosa sempervirens, Cistus salvifolius, Phyto-
lacca decandra, Trichonema columnse, Adian-
tuin capillus veneris, LoniceraCaprifolium, Papa-
ver dubium, Acanthus mollis, Lathyrus Aphaca,
Ferula communis, Capparis spinosa, and very
many others which equally deserve to be men-
tioned. The Colosseum seemed to focus a large
proportion of the flowers of Italy, and what
was rather strange was that some things were
to be seen growing there which are not enume-
rated in the Flora Romami. How they got
there is rather a puzzle, unless human agency
was employed ; but in one way and another,
by the birds, by the winds, it may have been
in some cases by the intentional scattering of
seed, there was a delightful collection of things
brought here which held its own, and by tin-
selection of the fittest, covered these old walls
with a drapery that brought grace to the ravages
of Time, and charmed away some of the most
dreadful memories of which the place is full.
All this is at an end, the place looks utterly
denuded, though Mr. Dwight Benton has been
able, after long searching, to put his hand on
about 200 different specimens of the glories of
the past which are still growing here and there
in some unnoticed spots. Henry En-haul;.
{To be continue'!.)

6 15

THE GAB DE NEBS' GHBONICLE.

[February 4, 1899.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

»
ORCHIDS at FREELAND, PERTHSHIRE, N.B.
The princely estate of C. L. Wood, Esq., is
situated some four miles south of Perth. Every
department of gardeuing is well carried out there,
and Orchids are cultivated with conspicuous
success. I have visited the gardens occasionally
for many years, and have watched the growth of
several species with great interest. Fig. 22 repre-
sents a specimen of Odontoglossum crispum that
had thirteen spikes of bloom. A plant of 0. Pesca-
torei also had 200 flowers, and is shown in rig. 23.
In no other collections do the Odoutoglossums suc-
ceed better. I have seen hundreds of spikes of
bloom at one time, and they are generally arranged
in a span-roofed house, interspersed with specimens
of the best Masdevallias, and so they make a fine
display, as may be seen on reference to fig. 24.
Other species of Orchids, such as Cattleyas, Lselias,
Cypripediums, Deudrobiums, Oncidiums, Vandas,
Aerides, kc, also succeed admirably. Many
dozens of grand Orchid flowers have been sent
from this collection to adorn the Queen's
table at Perth Station Hotel when Her
Majesty has been dining there. Mr. William
Sharp, the head gardener, has had full charge of
the collection for many years. A. Outturn. Fitiham.

CYPRIPEDIIM X LCCIENIANtJM.

This undoubtedly pretty hybrid has always been
looked upon as a sort of puzzle. When Messrs.
Linden originally named it, and published some
remarks on it in the Journal des Orchidia, its
parentage was presumed to be between C. villosum
and G. x cenanthum superbum, and that hypothesis
lias been considered correct by experts in this
country, although there were not wanting some who
thought that the firm substance of the flowers, and
some other peculiarities, rendered it possible that
it might be a C. bellatulum cross, the lack of traces
of that species in the progeny being due to the
strong individuality of C. villosum, being exercised
as it is generally in crosses with Zygopetalum
Mackayi. This view was strengthened by the fact
that the raiser always maintained that it resulted
from C. villosum x C. bellatulum. The question
is again raised by J. Leemann, Esq., the owner of
t hat fine collection of Orchids at West Bank House,
Heaton Mersey, who sends a flower closely ap-
proaching that of C. x Lueienianum, figured in
Lindi nia, viii., t. 362.

Mr. Leemann, iu his letter, says : — "The plant,
of which 1 send you a flower, together with four
more seedlings of the same batch of hybrids,
has been raised in this country, and the vendor
and raiser, from whom I got these plants only
quite recently, is mo-it positive in his assertion
that C. bellatulum, and not C. cenanthum, is the
pollen-parent. Out of my five plants three were in
flower when I bought them. All were fiue, though
different from each other in some degree."

The flower sent may be likened to a very
large C. villosum in its general form, but with
much larger dorsal sepal, the base of which is
greenish-yellow, with many heavily marked lines
of dark purple spots, which change their hue to
rose-crimson as they spread over the broad pure-
white margin. The petals and lip are whitish
yellow, tinged with purple, and the svliolc surface
of the flower is very glossy. The staminode, which
I have compared with forms of C. villosum and ( '.
Boxalli, seem to be but little different from thai of
the typical C. villosum, viz., large, fleshy, and yellow,
with a raised green-tipped keel from the centre to
the front. This is what one would expect if C. x
cenanthum superbum (Harrisiauum x iusigneMaulei)
were one of the parents, as through C. xHarrisi-
auuni it receives a second infusion of C. villosum,
and iu C. insigue the staminode is of a similar form.
Following this line, Hansen, in his Hybrid Orchids,
suggests that C. x Lueienianum is a form of C. x
nitens, which it is not. Perhaps some reader may
give evidence on the knotty point. James 0' Urn n.

CALADIUMS.

Of late years the Caladium has become more
extensively cultivated, and is accepted as a useful
and handsome plant, serviceable alike as a speci-
men in the stove, and as a decorative plant for use
in dwelling-rooms. The excellent groups of these
plants exhibited at the great shows of the Royal
Horticultural Society in the Temple Gardens, aud
at the principal exhibitions in the provinces, have,
doubtless, contributed largely to the increased
desire for new varieties, which is likely to continue
so long as raisers meet with anything like the
success that has attended their efforts during the
past few years.

In making a selection of the best of the intro-
ductions of late years, I would mention the varieties
Lady Northcote, Pautia Ralli, Sir Oswald Moseley,
Marquis of Camden, Mrs. McLeod, Lord Peurhyn,
Ladas, Silver Cloud, Lord Rosebery, J. Pierpont
Morgan, and Her Majesty. These are possessed of
leaves of infinitely finer and more delicate markiugs
than many of the older forms ; and -after a year or
two, when the severe strain of excessive propaga-
tion upon their constitutions has been overcome,
they will, I believe, be found to be thoroughly fit
for the purposes named above, provided the
plants are properly prepared before they are sub
jected to the unfavourable conditions inseparably
connected with any system of indoor furnishing.
The varieties Mrs. H. Veitch, Louis A. Van Houtte,
Michel Buchner, Gaston Chandon, Charlemagne,
Madame Alfred Magne, Gaspard Grayer, Lyming-
ton, Golden Queen, Gerard Dow, eandidum, and
Isis, form a dozen of the older sorts, sufficiently
diverse in character to form the nucleus of a collec-
tion, and their constitution is too well known to
need speaking to here.

If it be contemplated to form a collection of
Caladiuuis, the present is the best time in which to
purchase the plants, as dormant bulbs can be
secured at a slightly lower figure than later, when
they have been potted up. They will need to be
potted as soon as they are received from the
nursery.

A light compost, such as would be formed of leaf-
soil, loam, peat, and sand, in equal parts, I find to
be best at this stage. This should be passed
through a [inch sieve. If a bulb has several
crowns, and it is desired to increase the stock,
cut out the single crowns and rub the wounds thus
made well over with charcoal - dust, to arrest
bleeding and prevent decay. A close case is essen-
tial to a successful start, especially if the tubers
have been severely divided. If bottom - heat be
also available, then by all means use it, as this
will facilitate growth, and a good start thus given
tin' plants is noticeable throughout the season.

After a fortnight the strongest varieties will have
made sufficient growth to admit of their being
removed to the stage, thus making room for others
of the mauy plants that require a close atmosphere
at this season. Thumb-pots having been used in
the first instance, a shift into 48's (44 inch) pots
should be given as soon as the plants require it.
Provide abundant aud carefully -laid drainage, and
use cleau pots. The soil for this second potting
should consist of fibrous loam and peat in equal
parts, to which a portion of horse-droppings, sand,
and charcoal should be added, and thoroughly
mixed. Moderately firm potting must be practised
if the best results are to be obtained. A slight
spraying amongst the pots with the syringe should
be used in place of the water-pot for a few days,
but when water is given the roots, let it be in a
tepid condition, and apply sufficient to saturate
the whole of the soil and roots. A temperature
of 65° to 70° by day during January and February
will be a safe figure of heat in which to keep the
plants, aud 5 more may advantageously be added
in March. A further shift will in most cases
become necessary during the season, but no potting
should be done after the middle of July, as growth
becomes slow after this date.

At no time should the foliage be sprayed or
syringed overhead. Such a practice very soon

disfigures the leaves, and in the case of many of
the finer leaved kinds, it destroys the leaves entirely.
Abundant atmospheric moisture is, nevertheless,
absolutely essential to high culture. This may be
brought about by spraying amongst the pots, paths,
aud auy such surfaces. When dampiug down the
houses for the night. I have found a sprayiug of
weak liquid manure beneficial, but this can only lie
done when the houses in which the plants are
cultivated are situated at a distance from the
mansion. Weak farmyard manure-water, with a
very slight amount of soot added, makes an excel-
lent tonic when the plants are in need of such, and
the pots are well charged with roots. Clay's
Fertiliser used about once fortnightly is also to be
recommended at the rate of a teaspoouful to a 4S
(or 4]-inch) pot. The plants delight in copious
supplies of water when growing freely, but as soon
as it is observed that growth is less quick than
formerly, great care in its application is necessary ;
and as the plants show signs of going to rest, the
supply must be materially decreased. It is well,
however, to still maintain a brisk temperature, as
otherwise dampiug may set in, and effect much
damage before it is noticed. As soon as the leaves
are in a sufficiently ripened state to be removed,
the pots should be laid on their sides in the store
in a site free from drip, in which position they may
remain ; during winter they may be shaken out
and placed in pots containing dry sand and cocoa-
nut-fibre refuse. J. F. McLeod.

GAKDENING IN THE CHANNEL
ISLES.

Guernsey. — In the gardens of Captain Corre,
Rohais, I found many rare aud choice plants and
shrubs of unusual size, existing without any pro-
tection whatever. Many had been planted in spots
suitable to their requirements, indicating iu the
possessor a knowledge of the needs and peculiarities
of the respective subjects. Now after some years,
the freedom and vigour of the whole of them are
very marked. Here were choice species of Bamboo,
some of great size and height ; B. Simoni is 20 feet
high, in immense beds and clusters ; Drae;ena
iudivisa, that must have been fine trees previous to
being cut down by the severe winter, three years
ago last March, the stem as shown by the old
stump must have been 4 to 5 feet iu girth, and from
this base numerous young plants, in some cases tea
to twenty, have shot out, which are already S to
10 feet iu height. Mauy such clumps may be seen
about the ground, and one could not help feeling
sorrow that such fine trees should have been killed
by the 17' of frost experienced. Pavia maerostachya
is a big shrub with numerous spikes of flowers,
similar to those of the Horse-Chestnut ; Maguolia
grandiflora is represented by trees 3o feet high,
covered at the time of my visit with its massive
white flowers ; Erica hyemalis grows here to a
height of 20 feet ; Edwardsia grandiflora attains a
height of 20 feet ; a noble pair of Chamaaops
excelsa, that have stood out many years, and whose
stems and crown of leaves are of a most robust cha-
racter. These plants are about 20 feet high, an
quite iu keeping with their neighbours. Close by a
clump of Heliauthus autumnalis superba, 5 feet high,
was covered with yellow flowers; Aralia Sieboldi,
represented by a large specimen in flower ; and iu
close proximity were Spir;ea Lindleyana aud S
arisefolia. The purple bracts and flowers of Ley-
cesteria formosa were arching over fine clumps of
the Belladouua Lilies, and adjoining were bushes
of Azalea indica alba, and of numerous Ericas.

In a rockery close by, which extends some length,
was discovered a choice collection of hardy Ferns,
as the term is usually understood; but amongst
them were many that often receive intermediate-
house aud stove treatment. As samples, I may
mention Loinaria nuda, Drynaria pustulata and
Billardieri, Loinaria chilensis, and Woodwardia
radicaus, whose pendent fronds imparted an air
of singular attractiveness. Rambliug over the
rocks were masses of Pteris scaberula, and plants

Febriaky 4, 1S90.1

THE GABDEXEBS' CHRONICLE.

hi

jf Polypodium vulgare cambricum were very
abundant ; Besc'noneria yuccoides had produced a
spike S feet long, and already several young plants
have pushed up at the side of the base of the
flowering crown, which will soon die away.
Adjoining these were numerous Retinosporas of
large size and iutensiveness of leaf colour: and
Arundo eonspicua had grown to very large dimen-
sions, for there were just fifty plumes waved in
the breeze,

In the herbaceous borders I notice line clumps of
Lobelia cardiualis Fire King, tlie flowers intensely
brilliant in the strong sunshine. Watsonias in
variety had been very full of flower, whilst of
Gladiolus the spikes and flowers were especially
tine. Beds of Tigridias next came into view, these
plants being in thorough keeping with other bulbs
already mentioned. Fine Palms, Draeteuas, Euca-
lyptus, met one at almost every turn, and coming

that this plant had stood 17 of frost, when the
upper part was all killed, but that it broke very
freely again from the root, was a piece of information
such as is seldom obtained. Another archway was
clothed with Mina lobata. These plants were
sown in March last, and planted out iu May ; they
certainly have grown well, for their quaint yet
pretty flowers appear all over the archway. Beds
of Phlox Drummoudi, of Zinnias, Marigolds, Asters,
&c, were very fine, the colours of the flowers
intense. Ceauothus azureus and C. Veitchi planted
against the walls were flowering beautifully ; Kerria
japonica, Cotoneaster horizontals, also on walls,
was densely covered with its small scarlet berries ;
the white varieties of Xerium Oleander Madame le
Graud, purpurata striata, rose-coloured; aud
aurantiacum, yellow, were represented by nice
plants.

A capital vinery planted with Muscat Grapes

'.pi

.( 4 m

'■"<ocMi%0/y\ ■-, >^. -. ■"■-■'

-

Fig. 22.— odontocslossi si crisfi m with thirteen ploweb spikes
perthshire. (see p. 66, |

\ r freelan d,

o the end of the rockwork again we obsen ed many
if the choice varieties of Athyrium f. foamina, as

well as the better kinds of Lastrsea tilixmas. Truly,

r lovely and interesting spot.

Somerset Place.

Within easy walking distance from the foregoing
is the residence of J. L. Mansell, Esq., whose house,
covered densely with Ampelopsis Veitchi, was just
then very attractive. Here Mr. J. Marsham is the
head gardener. The garden is of medium size, and
tastefully laid out, and it was so completely
planted aud cropped iu every portion that much
more may be seen here in the small area than on
many gardens of twice the size. There are arches
over the paths in several parts of the kitchen-
garden, and very beautiful they are covered with
climbers in bloom, and so numerous are the flower-
ing plants iu this portion, that it almost seems like
growing fruits and vegetables in broad herbaceous
borders.

On some of the arches, plants of .Solatium Jas-
minoide's form very dense growth, and flower freely,
on another the orange-scarlet flowers of Bignonia
radicans covered the entire top of the arch. This
was a very interesting objuet7aud to be informal

was next visited, aud here were seen large bunches
and good berries ; close by is a Black Hamburgh
vinery, with Vines bearing a good crop, though
the canes were planted quite fifty years ago.

But it was the Nerines and Himalayan Rhodo-
dendrons which formed the special object of my visit.
Of the former thousands of bulbs are grown, among
them being a large number of hybrids raised on the
place. Some of the plants were already in flower,
but the larger proportion were just beginning to
push up their flower-spikes. Many of these plants
had not been repotted for years, and the bulbs as
they are formed, and yearly increase in size, were
clustered above those of the previous years. N.
Manseli has been grown here for thirty years, and
is uow represented by many plants. N. Correi, a
cross between Fothergilli and Sarniensis ; and other
named sorts are X. Plauti, N. coruscans major,
N. atrosanguinea, N. flexuosa, N. Moorei, N.
Cammi, N. ciernlea, N. amabilis. X. pudica, aud N.
Elwesii. These with the hybrids now coming on
will make a glorious show in a short time. The
intense beauty of many of these I could gather from
pictures painted by Mr. W. Caparn, who kindly
showed in? a large collection of them. He also
showed pictures of choice Daffodils grown on the

island. That these Nerines are beautiful objects for
conservatory and house decoration is generally
accepted, and the many forms grown are of especial
interest. Maguificent Cannas were growing in a
large glass-house close by, with large plants of the
blue and white Campanula pyramidalis, 6 feet high,
with from twenty-four to thirty stems apiece.

Daffodils in quantities, and of choice varieties,
were planted, for here as at many other places it is
iry that the best only be grown, and plenty of
them. Montbretias are grown in large beds, and
spikes by the hundred are continually cut from
them. Ou entering a stove-house close by, I noticed
the roof was covered with several climbers ; among
them, Aristolochia elegans was flowering, with its
singular purple-spotted, trumpet-shaped flower ;
Bougainvillea glabra, Allamanda Heudersoni, Thun-
bergia fragrans, and T. graudiflora — the beauty of
■these latter ones is very great, their pale sky-blue
flowers were very numerous, and of large size.

The Khododeudrons are planted in a different
part of the gardens, and are pictures of health ; in
the early summer they had been objects of beauty.
A plant of A. Falcoueri was some 6 feet high,
with large leaves, and bearing creamy-white flowers,
which come densely placed in globose heads ; R.
Shilsoui, not yet flowered ; Mrs. Butler, pale
pink, and with fragrant blooms ; fragrantissimum,
white; barbatum, scarlet; argeuteum, full of buds;
campylocarpum, yellow, a most beautiful and
distinct variety ; Princess Alice, white flowers, a
grand plaut ; Thompsons, deep red aud glossy ;
Aueklaudi, having immense white flowers, tinged
with pink, and spots of a darker colour ; calo-
phylluni, while, tinged with yellow; Countess of
Haddington, a large plant full of vigour, flowers
rosy-pink ; Assamicum, and others, all iu most
remarkable health aud vigour, beiug dense bushes
."> and (j feet high.

Near by was a fine plant of Magnolia eonspicua,
wlncli in the early spring had been full of flowers.
Cue Dracaenas, Chamoerops, and other sub-tropical
plauts in the borders surrounding the flower-
garden, added a singular charm to the place, and
this and every other portion was in good keeping,
and reflected great care aud diligence on the part
of the gardener. W. Stcan.

The Bulb Garden.

MUSCARI RACEMOSUM CARNEUM,
This variety of the large, deep-coloured Grape
Hyacinth is well deserving of the notice of those
who care for this pretty class of plants. It comes,
so far as the writer is aware, nearer a true pink
colour than any other Muscari. The variety of
M. botryoides named carneum is very much lighter
than this, and is altogether a less " effective " plant,
if we may use such a term regarding these modest
flowers. I believe, it originated in the garden of
Messrs. Dammann & Co., of San Giovanni a
Teduccio, Italy, from whom I had it several years
ago. I afterwards lost it, and two years ago, when I
ordered it elsewhere, the common deep blue M.
racemosum was sent. I hope, however, that I
have now obtaiued the true pink variety.

SCILLA LlLIO-IlYACINTHl'S ALBA.

Some years ago, Mr. William B. Boyd, of Faldon-
side, Melrose, sent me a bulb of this Squill,
informing me at the same time that it was very
rare. Mr. Boyd also stated that he had found it
in an old garden in Berwickshire. Before it
flowered, in going through an interesting old
garden in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, I came
upon some clumps iu bloom. When the bulb got
from Air. Boyd flowered, it proved to be the same
as those in the Kirkcudbrightshire garden. The
typical blue Scilla Lilio-hyacinthus is not a parti-
cularly desirable plant, aud one would be inclined
to say that the white variety is inferior to the
white varieties of Scilla eauipanulata. Its rarity
is, however, a consideration : and it is, upon the

68

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[February 4, 1899.

whole, a desirable plant to have in a collection of
Squills. Its broad leaves and scaly bulbs make it
very distiuct from other species. S. Lilio-hyacin-
thus albus was known to Miller, who also mentions
a red variety, which I woidd like to meet with. He
also suggests raising this Squill, known to him as
Lilio-hyacinthus— the Lily Hyacinth— from seeds,
in order to obtain varieties.

SflLLA ITALICA ALBA.

Through seeing this rare variety of the Italian
Squill in Maund's Botanic Garden, the writer has
been induced to try to obtain it, and has, through
the kindness of a correspondent, been able to do so
at length. The type, which, by the way, never
seeds in my garden, is not sufficiently well-known by
bulb-growers. It is quite hardy, and increases fairly
rapidly. The variety under notice is not so effective
perhaps, but it is yet pleasing enough to be prized.
Mauud tells us that he owed both the varieties to
the Rev. W. Bree, of Allesley.

A few years ago, a Dutch bulb-grower, from
whom one can often obtain out-of-the-way plants,
offered S. italica alba in his catalogue. I succeeded
in obtaining a bulb, but lost it soon after, probably
owing to the border in which it was planted being
too dry. It was not again offered, and for some
time I was without it. Through the kindness of a
well-known lady gardener in Surrey, and that of a
Suffolk gentleman, 1 have not only again been suc-
cessful in obtaining this Scilla, but 1 have also ascer-
tained that their stock came from the garden of the
late Rev. John Nelson, of Aid borough. The latter,
from whose garden have come so many interesting
things, told one of my correspondents that this
white Scilla was "unique." It does not appear to
have become more plentiful since that time — some
fifteen years ago. I am told, however, that it is
uot difficult to grow, aud as the type does well, one
is, in; hope that this plaut, so long coveted, may
grow as satisfactorily in a similar place. There is
no reason why a pink or flesh-coloured variety of
Scilla italica should not be in existence as well.
.V. Arnott, Carsethorn, near Dumfries, N.B.

DUNS CASTLE.

(Continued from p. 40.)
The approaches to the Castle from the town
are by two avenues— the north and the south —
and here again the timber which has made the
estate famous throughout the south of Scot-
land, attracts the attention. The south
approach is about a mile in length, and is
through an avenue of magnificent Beeches
which 'effectually screen the building, until a
graceful and natural sweep brings the visitor
in full view of the structure. The north
approach is not quite so long, and here again,
on Hearing the Castle, a stately avenue is passed
through — this time of Limes. Of this avenue
more than a passing word must be said.

On October 14, 1881, a terrible gale swept
the south-east coast of Scotland, resulting in an
appalling loss of life to the dwellers in the
villages engaged in the herring fishing in these
parts, and, sweeping across the country, did
irrevocable damage to woodland and property.
Exposed to the fury of this hurricane, the
avenue under note — then a veritable bower,
the branches meeting overhead from end to
end— suffered severely, many mighty monarchs
being then uprooted and laid side by side.
At the end next the Castle, on one side, for
almost half the length of the avenue, not a
tree was left standing, and the spectacle pre-
sented when the fury of the gale wa3 expended
was indeed a pitiable one. The late Mr. H. J.
Hay, a most enthusiastic arboriculturist, was in
despair at the ruin of one of the most beautiful
features of his estate, but determined if possible
to raise the trees, and so in some measure repair
the havoc wrought. Experts were of opinion

that, with trees of such age, the experiment
was hopeless ; but, nothing daunted, the idea
was entertained and persevered in, and after
considerable thought, a machine was con-
structed by which the trees could again be set
on end, and it but remained to decide on what
was the best treatment to ensure their recovery
when again perpendicular. Large limbs were
removed almost close to the trunk, the roots
were carefully trimmed, and large circular holes
taken out for the reception of the ball of the
tree, on which was retained as much of the soil
as possible. Into these holes — and herein
doubtless lies the crux of the success of the
whole matter — a large quantity of rich pre-
pared soil was put, and into this the roots
immediately struck with great vigour and
freedom. So successful was the treatment
accorded the fallen monarchs, that of all
those raised not one succumbed, but they
continue to flourish, and are now, after seven-
teen years, as healthy and vigorous as the
remainder of their more fortunate brethren. To
secure the trees against future storms three
stout wires were attached to each, some 6 feet
from their summit, and these wires were
carried down and secured to stout posts driven
into the ground at equal distances from each
other, some 15 or 18 yards from the base of the
tree. From whatever direction the wind might
be blowing, therefore, a restraining influence
was exerted on the trees, and " a threefold cord
is not easily broken." The operations excited
much interest at the time amongst arboricul-
turists, and many experts visited the estate
whilst the work was being carried out.

At the back of the Castle, reaching up to the
Lammermoor Hills, stretch hundreds of acres
of woods, which, under the management of
Mr. Skeldon, the head forester, are in excellent
condition, and the estate of Duns Castle pre-
sents to the thoughtful mind an instructive
lesson in the successful management of woods
and forests.

Through the courtesy and generosity of the
proprietor, Mr. R. M. Hay, the public are
allowed to rami de through the grounds at will,
after having provided themselves with a pass,
which may be obtained on application at the
estate offices in the town ; and let us hope that
the day of the birth of that vandal or those
vandals be far distant, who shall by their con-
duct deprive the public of a privilege which is
so much appreciated, alike by dwellers in the
district and visitors from afar. A. A.

Florists' Flowers.

AURICULAS.

The Auriculas, owing to the mildness of the
weather hitherto, have been more or less active, and in
another month the blooms will begin to open, unless
February proves more wintry than January ; and
when a little artificial warmth is applied growth is
quicker.

As the exhibition of the National Auricula
Society is fixed for »o early a date as April 18, and
further, as there is much probability of a cold
spring retarding the blooming season when the
grower depends on cool treatment, those who can
apply heat to assist in the expansion of the pips
should not fail to use it.

Wheu the plants commence to grow, the leaves,
which during the winter formed a kind of hard
knot, curl backwards, and enlarging, take on an
intense light green or snow-white mealy foliage.
Then the plants should be afforded water more or
less in amount according to the state of growth,
and none should be kept dry, uor, on the other

hand, should they be kept wet. Air without cold
draughts is necessary, and also full exposure to
sunshine, and top-dressing the plants with fresh
soil. This was a time-honoured practice, but it is
not as much followed as it was ; still, it may be
necessary in certain cases, such as when roots show
at the surface. The pots should be cleaned, and
the drainage of each examined.

When March opens, if the weather be genial
the growth of this plant will be rapid, and in the
course of that mouth most of the flower-heads will
be visible, and a few early varieties will be almost in
full flower. Much, however, will depend upon the
temperature maintained in the house. No grower
attempts to force his plants ; it simply means the
keeping of a genial temperature, and it is usual to
afford a little fire-heat when spring growth has
set in. R. D.

Hollyhocks.

Directly the seedlings of the Hollyhock appear
above ground, the pots should be placed on a shelf
near the glass, and when they have emerged into
the rough leaf they must be inured to cooler con-
ditions. The choice varieties are mostly increased
by cuttings, and to do this readily the stools should
be afforded a temperature of 50° by night, and 60°
by day. As soon as the shoots are long enough,
that is, about .3 inches, remove them off with a heel
of older growth, and place each singly in a small
pot in light sandy soil, with a pinch of sharp sand
at the base. Afford water, and after plunging the
pots in a bottom-heat of 70°, cover the cuttings
with a hand-light or big bell-glass. Much care
must be exercised in preventing damping, by
removing condensed moisture from the glass, and
water should be sparingly used.

Tuberous-rooted Beuoxias.
Whether for pot-culture or bedding, these plants
should have attention forthwith. Such really good
flosvers are now obtainable from seed of both double
aud single varieties, that it is scarcely necessary
to keep up a named collection. The present time
is very suitable for sowiug seed. Let a sufficient
number of well-draiued 5-inch pots, or small seed-
pans, be filled with finely-sifted fresh sandy soil ; press
this firmly, and afford a plenteous watering, covering
the surface with saud, and proceed to sow the seed
thinly aud evenly, aud place the seeds iu a house
having a warmth of 05° or 70°. Let each pot or pan
be covered closely with a piece of glass. A gentle
hot-bed in which to half-plunge the pots will hasten
germination. The seedlings through the soil,
remove the glass and stand the pots on a shelf in a
warm house near the glass. As soon as any of the
seedlings can be handled, prick these out into 4-inch
pots, in a compost of half loam, leaf-mould, and
sand. Form a slight mound with tli3 soil iu the
centre of the pot, which is a capital preventive of
damping, a malady the tiny seedlings are prone to
during the earliest stages of growth. In removing
the fit do not disturb the unfit. The seed-pots and
pricked-off plants should b3 afforded water by dip-
ping. Seedlings raised thus early begin to flower in
June, and continue until the autumn.

THE CULTIVATION OF FREESIAS.

There is probably no winter or early-spring
flowering bulbous plaut more generally beloved
than the Freesia. The flowers are pretty, delieiously
fragrant, and owing to their erect, stiff stems, are
Very useful when cut. The plants are equally
ornamental as specimens iu pots. Though many
gardeners cultivate them with success annually, we
have many times known them to occasion some
little trouble. The followiug hints upon the cul-
ture of Freesias we have extracted from a paper
upon the subject, delivered by Mr. G. Carpenter,
West Hall Gardens, Byfleet, before a meeting of
the Woking Horticultural Society.

" Freesias may be cultivated from seeds. The
seeds should be sown during August or September,
and those sown in August may possibly flower
the following spring. If the seels be produced at

February 4, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

G9

Lome, sow them as soon as they are ripe. When
once a stock has been obtained, it will not be
necessary to obtain a fresh supply of seeds or bulbs
each year. The seeds should be sown thinly iu
sandy loam and leaf-mould, in order to avoid the
necessity for transplantation. The pots or pans
should be placed in some sunny position in a cold
frame, and as soon as the yoimg plauts appear, tilt
the back of the frame to admit fresh air. The
seedling plants should be thinned out to eight or
nine in each 5-inch pot, and when once established
afford them plenty of air to induce a sturdy growth.
.Shade the frame slightly duriug the hottest part
of the day. When the plants have tilled the pots
with roots, they will require a goodsupply of water,
and a little liquid-manure occasionally will be bene-
ficial. The supply of water will need to be de-
creased gradually as soon as the plants show sigus

extent. The first batch may be potted-up duriug
August, and the next a fortnight or three weeks
later, and so on. The largest bulbs should be put
at the rate of six or seven into 5-inch pots, and
those of the second size at the rate of nine or ten
bulbs. But the smallest may be put thinly in
pots or pans, to be grown on as the seedlings were,
and they will produce good bulbs for flowering the
next year.

" The best soil to use at this time of potting is
composed of sandy-loam, leaf-mould, and well-
decayed manure ; the two first-named ingredients
in equal parts. The bulbs will not require any
water until growth has commenced, and a frame
from which frost is excluded, or a shelf in a cool-
house will afford the most suitable place for them.
In a light position, with plenty of air during mild
weather, they will thrive well. When the flowers

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of resting. The most important detail iu Freesia
growing is to obtaiu a thorough ripening of the
bulbs. In too many cases, when the flowers have
passed, or have beeu cut, the plauts are cast into an
out-of-the-way corner, and neglected. Such prac-
tice means failure next season. When the foliage
lias become quite yellow, place the pots on a shelf
in a vinery or in some other position facing south,
where they will receive full sunshine. Have no
fear that they will become over-ripened. Later,
when the bulbs have ripened as much as they are
likely to do, turn them out and sort them into
three different sizes. Store them in a cool, dry
place until required again for potting-up. Those
which hive beeu grown from seed will be found to
include some of very good size.

"The next stage in their cultivation will be to
repot them. This must be done at intervals, so
that they may flower in succession. When once
Freesias have been potted, it will be found difficult
either to hurry or retard them to au appreciable

appear, a little more heat may be given to a portion
of the first batch, and the others will form a suc-
cession. In this way each of the batches I have
mentioued previously may bo again divided.

"The extra heat must be applied with great
care. If too much be given, the plant will become
spindly, and the flowers when cut and placed
in water will soon fade. Freesias are naturally
weak-growing plants, and should be supported by
neat stakes before they can fall over. If they be
permitted to fall about, they soon turn their heads
up to the light again, and crooked stems are the
result.

" The foliage of the Freesia is very delicate, and
will not permit of strong fumigation, even with
XL-All Vaporiser. The ill effect may not be
noticed at the time, but will be seen a few days
later, wheu the leaves turn yellow at the tips. The
plants had better be kept clean by spraying and
syringing with XL Liquid Insecticide, one of the
best and safest insecticide- of which I know."

LILAC FORCING IN GERMANY.

In general, there is to be remarked considerable
progress and improvement, together with au increase
in the business of Lilac forcing in the whole of the
country in later years ; yet in the past season,
up to Christmas, there was noticeable a general
scarcity of fine-cut Lilac. It is not improbable—
indeed, it is quite on the cards— that until the
spring the inquiry for cut Lilac bloom, and spe-
cially the pure white form of it, will greatly exceed
the supply. Not alone is cut bloom lacking in
quantity and quality, but flowering Lilac in pots
is very scarce in Hamburg, and probably every-
where in the whole of north-western Germany.
This scarcity is due, chiefly, to the wet, cold
summer of 1S97, the like of which has rarely
occurred in that region. The summer of 189S was
the exact opposite. The unfavourable weather
conditions are certainly responsible for the greater
proportion of the failure in this year's forcing,
not only in Lilac, but in Hyacinths, Lily of the
Valley, &c. Should this mischief gradually
disappear as the season advances, and flower-buds
in some of the unforced plants and bulbs become
more fully developed, it cannot do so, or only
partially, in the case of forced Lilac. Such
as formed satisfactory flower-shoots, but did not
mature, will not give favourable returns ; and this
is the case with many double- flowered varieties, as
Charles X. and Marie Legraye.

The winter of 1898 being mild, and spring
weather commencing early, the Lilac plants grew at
first quite normally, the young shoots deveveloped
gradually, and grew till well into the summer
without ceasing and without setting flower-buds.
The potting of the plants was, as a cousequence,
delayed to a later date than usual. Varieties such
as Charles X., Marie Legraye, and several others,
also double-Howered varieties, formed numerous, or
at the least, a sufficient number of flower-buds on
plants that had not been cut back too severely ;
still, owing to the fact that in late summer, while
in full growth, it was necessary to afford them
water in larger quantities, and for a longer period
than usual, it was scarcely possible to get the wood
matured. Further, no actual frosty weather, but
only night frosts occurred to sufficiently check the
flow of the sap.

The Marly Lilac, which begins to grow at an
early date, can only be ripened in good time by
keeping the soil about the roots very dry, if it is to
be used to good effect for autumn and early spring
forcing. And it is in this respect that the best
forcing Lilacs differ so essentially from each other ;
for should Charles X. be treated like the Marly in
the matter of ripening the wood, the worst results
would be sure to follow. Pot-plants of Charles X.
and Marie Legraye, which in ordinary years can
be very easily and surely forced into flower by the
third week in December, were last year very poor,
the plants made shoots without expanding the
flower-buds ; and other plants showed very unsatis-
factory development of the flowers and flower-
spikes, with small crippled flowers set close
together iu bunches. The colour was likewise
unsatisfactory. Complaints of faulty developmen
are common in many parts of the continent. Herr
Ft'. Harms in M&Uer's "Deutsche Gavtner Z>itinnj.'i

Cultural Memoranda.

PAVETTA BORBONICA
The usefulness of this plant can scarcely be over-
estimated. The chief features of Pavetta are the
markings of the leaves, and when grown with a
single stem it is very effective as a table-plant, and
for decorating generally. The ground-colour of the
leaves is dark green, thickly studded with white
spots, with a midrib of salmon-red. The soil best
adapted for its growth is loam and peat, in equal
ratio, with a dash of sharp sand. Cuttings should
be taken about March, inserted in small pots, and
placed in a brisk heat. When sufficiently rooted

70

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 4, 1899.

they should be potted-off, arid grown on accord-
ingly. It delights in a "strong heat when growing,
and well exposed to the sun ; if much shaded, the
leaves are not so bright and well defined. P. Bolt,
Wtntworth Gardens.

The Week's Work.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester

Acer platanoides (Norway Maple) is a very orna-
mental tree of vigorous growth, and possesses bold
foliage. When planted amongst the dark-leaved
Pines, or in the park in the foreground, the greenish-
yellow Howers early in the spring are very effective.
The varieties A. p. aureo variegatum, leaves
yellow and green ; A. p. dissectum, deeply cut
leaves ; A. p. laciniatum (Hawk's-foot Maple),
leaves lacerated ; A. p. Reichenbachi and A. p.
Schwedleri have both rich purple leaves in spring,
and those planted as a background to Laburnums
make a charming contrast.

Acer Net/undo, fine lively green in summer ; A. N.
variegatum, silver variegation ; and A. N. aureum
variegatum, stand out boldly amongst the dark
green leaves of other shrubs. The whole of these
Acers thrive in a good soil of retentive character.

Iris germanica (the German Flag Iris), planted
on the edge of shrubbery borders, in beds, in wood-
land walks, and on the margin of lakes, make a fine
show of bloom during the months of May and June.
They succeed best in a light sandy soil, enriched
with thoroughly rotten leaf-mould and manure.
Plant them so that the large fleshy rhizomes will
creep upon the surface of the ground. They require
but little attention afterwards, simply to keep
them free from weeds, and provide them with a
slight dressing of old spent Mushroom-manure
annually. They may be ordered now, and planted
as soon as they arrive. They are now classified
into seven groups, viz., Iris germanica, with
standards and falls of the same colour ; I. g.
amo?na, standards white, slightly shaded with
blue, falls same colours, veined white ; I. g. aphylla,
standards white, margined with blue and .violet,
falls similar ; I. g. ueglecta, very handsome,
standards principally of a blue and pine-lavender
colour, falls purple, blue, and violet, reticulate,
white ; I. g. pallida, standards and falls of the
same colour ; I. g. squalens, standards dull bronzy
yellow, tinged with lilac, falls velvety-crimson and
yellow. This is by far the handsomest of all the
groups.

Abutilons. — Mother-plants of Abutilons, if these
plants are used in bedding, should soon be placed
in heat so as to afford cuttings, also India-rubber
plants. In mild weather clean and air the stock of
bedding-plants standing in pits aud green-houses ;
and if mildew has appeared on any of them, do
not delay to use flowers-of-sulphur.

Beds of Bulbs alon£, and Biennials ami Perennials
Mixed. — Let the ground lie stirred with the hand-
fork, and A-acancies tilled up from the reserve-
garden, aud as in the case of Carnations, making
the plants firm about the collar. If slugs are trou-
blesome, sprinkle quicklime on the soil at sunset,
and set traps for them.

Bedding Plants. — Seeds of the tuberous and
fibrous-rooted Begonias may now be sown, in order
to have strong plants for summer bedding. The
seed of these can be purchased in distinct colours.
When sowing the seed, carefully crock small pots,
fill them with a mixture of finely-sifted loam, leaf-
mould and sand, pressing the soil firmly, and
sprinkling with a fine-rose watering-pot, then
scatter the seed evenly over the surface, and leave
uncovered ; place a sheet of glass over the pots for
protection. If stood iu a moist place with a tem-
perature of G;V, the seed will soon germinate. Sow
seeds of the dwarf Antirrhinums, Yellow Prince,
White Queen, aud ( Vimson ; these are excellent
plants for bedding.

Alternantheras should be shaken out of the store
pots, planted singly in a mixture of loam and leaf-
mould, with a bottom-heat of 75°, slightly damped
overhead, may soon root freely, and produce plenty
of strong cuttings. Heliotropes, Fuchsias, Ivy-
leaved Pelargoniums, &c. , iutended as specimen
plants for beds should, if pot-bound, be given a
liberal shift, placed in a humid atmosphere, tied

neatly to stakes and exposed to light. Any of the
flowering Pelargoniums, the leading shoots of
which are not required for cuttings, should be
pinched-back to make them break and form bushy
plants.

Carnations. — The yellow-flowered and yellow -
ground varieties that are of too delicate a consti-
tution to withstand frost, but must be wintered in
cold frames, should be lifted, and some fresh ashes
and a good sprinkling of soot placed uuder them.
This will prevent the ravages of slugs, aud sweeten
the atmosphere. Afford plenty of air to prevent
them growing, and thoroughly harden them off
before planting outside. Carnations in the open
borders should be made firm in the ground, and
any that maybe affected by fungoid diseases, should
be taken up entirely aud burnt.

Hellebores, kuowu as Lenten Lilies, are fast
throwing up the flower-spikes ; these should be
dusted oA-er with a mixture of soot and lime. This
will prevent the slugs and mice eating the flowers,
and act as a stimulant when washed into the soil
by the rain.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Tomato*. — Strong plants grown from seeds sown
in the autumn, and now occupying 6 or 7-iuch pots,
may be transferred to the pots in which they are to
fruit, placing them in a warm house, Avhere there is
abundant light. The side-shoots, as they appear,
should be removed, and the plants neatly staked.
As the flowers open, let these be fertilised daily at
an hour when the pollen is quite dry. Fruiting
Tomato plants should be afforded manure-water
frequently, or top-dressings of bone-meal or other
artificial compounds may be substituted. The
younger seedlings may be potted as they become
fit, aud more seeds sown. Challenger, Ham Greeu
Favourite, Duke of York, and Frogmoiv Selected
are excellent varieties for present sowing. Do not
sow the seeds thickly, or let the seedliugs become
crowded, and stand the seed-pans on a shelf near
the light in a warm house. The plauts should be
potted as soon as two or three leaves haA'e beeu
made. In potting Tomatos in this stage, use a
light and fairly rich compost broken up into a line
state, aud warmed previously to being made use of,
chills being very detrimental to the well-being of
the plant. Press the soil only moderately firm into
the pots, so as to avoid injury to tender stems.

Later Peach-houses should be kept cool, lettiug
them remain open at night as well as by day, this
being very essential this mild year, for exposure to
some degree of frost will act as a check on growth.
The gardener should make every effort to liuish the
pruniug and tying of all the trees in the first week
of the present mouth before the buds move.
Though trees in these houses may be dormant, aud
the buds may not be dropping, the trees will be
much weakened if the soil is allowed to get dry,
eveD in the winter.

Mi Inn*. — The earliest plants, if not already
planted in the hot-beds, should soon be ready for
planting, and provision should be made for doing
so. A Melon-bed may bo made over a heated
chamber, or on an ordinary hot-bed. If the first
crop is taken from pot-plants, these should likewise
be got in readiness. The Melon likes good drainage,
and loam of a heavy nature, and nothing more is
necessary than a small quantity of lime, mixed Avith
it. It is important that the hillocks, the bed, or the
potful of soil, should be made firm at the time of
planting, and alloAved to get warm before the plants
are put out. In planting do not break the root-
mass, but press the soil close about it, aud let the
top of the ball be flush with the surface. Place a
neat stake to each plant, reaching to the trellis.
Let succession plants be potted or repotted, never
letting them get pot-bound, and afford them a
place in the fullest sunshine, and as near the glass
as possible ; therefore, an ordinary frame or brick-
pit is the most suitable place for the youug plants.
Sow seeds at short intervals, using small 4-inch
pots, filled with loam and sand, sowing one, or at
the most two, seeds iu each.

Late Grapes. — The bunches should now be
removed from the Vines, with about 0 inches of
wood attached, ami placed in wine-bottles filled with
clear water, aud hung up by a bit of striug passed
round the neck, or stood slantingly on a rack, with
the bunches neither touching each other or the

bottles in which they are put. Any room in Avhich
a cool uniform degree of temperature can be
obtained makes a suitable Grape-room. The ordi-
nary fruit-room, unless it be' large and dry, does not
make the best Grape-room. It is very necessary
to examine the bottles at short intervals, and to
keep them nearly filled, to remove decaying berries,
and to get rid of moisture by keeping quicklime in
pails or boxes in the room. Be careful not to let
dust enter the room. It is to be feared that Grapes
will not keep satisfactorily this year, and a good
deal of attention is sure to be required. The earlier
that the late Vines are pruned, now that we have
entered the second month, the better, no benefit
accruing from further delay, and bleeding, the out-
come of late pruning, will thus be averted. Keep
the late Viues cool till starting time arrives, iu
the meantime cleaning the Vinery, renovating the
borders, aud generally following earlier directions
for Vines about to be forced.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady How \\.u
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Souvenir dt la Malmaison Carnations. — The

strongest of the autumn-struck plants being now
well rooted, may be shifted into f> or 6-inch flower-
pots, leaving the weaker and less-rooted plants to
be repotted towards the end of the present month.
Afford the plants a compost consisting of two parts
good loam, neither too retentive nor too light, and
one part leaf-soil, adding sufficient silver-sand to
keep the whole porous. Afterwards let the plants
stand as near the glass as possible, in a greeuhouso
or cold pit, affording them ventilation pretty freely
wheu there is no frost.

Tree or Winter-flowering Carnations. — In order
to have plauts for flowering next winter, cuttings
or pipings of these should now be inserted. As
cuttings, choose young growths which spring from
the stems of the old plants, neither too gross uor
wiry, detaching them with the fingers, and conse-
quently they will iu each case bo furnished with a
heel, and having removed a few of the lower leaves,
they are ready for insertion. As a soil in which to
strike them, use three parts loam, one part leaf-
soil, and plenty of silver-sand ; fill some 4-inch pots
with this, pressiug it firmly, sprinkle some silver-
sand on the surface, and dibble in eight or ten
cuttings, taking care that the base of each rests on
saud. Having afforded water, place the cutting-
pots under a handlight or bell-glass, iu a tempera-
ture of from 55° to 00°, and daily wipe the moisture
from the inside of the bell-glasses. When all the
cuttings in each pot have taken root, remove the
pots from the cutting-frame to a cooler one, and
haying hardened them off a little, they may in a
few days be potted iu 3-inch pots, using this time
rather more leaf-soil. When they are well rooted,
remove them to a still cooler house or pit.

Fuchsias and Abutilons. — A few old plants of each
of these may be placed in heat to provide an early
batch of cuttings. Repot autumn-struck plauts of
the former as fast as the roots take full possession
of the soil, and, if the object is to obtain specimen
plants, choose for that purpose plants which show
promise of producing side-shoots from the top of the
pot upwards. This does away with the necessity
of stopping the leader, aud allows the plant to
attiiu its full height. Grow on in a house having a
temperature of 50° to 55°, and considerable degree
of humidity.

Shoir ami Fancy Pelargoniums, ami < '/»■ rarias. —
Keep a sharp out-look for aphis ou these plants,
employing Richards' XL-All Liquid upon their first
appearance, repeating the operation if necessary till
the plants arc quite clean. Let these plants be
grown iu a cool, well-aired greenhouse or greenhouse-
pit, affording them a minimum temperature (if 45'.
The Fancies, if there is the convenience, may be
grown in a house slightly warmer. Cinerarias
which are throwing up their flower-stems, may be
assisted with applications of weak liquid-manure,
particularly plants that are in comparatively small
pots.

Clerodendronjallax, and Justiciar. — As soon as
strong cuttings of these plauts can be obtained from
the old plants started in moist heat, they should be
inserted in sandy soil iu small pots, and plunged iu
a propagating-frame. The first-named may also be
increased from seed, whichshould be sown forthwith.

Gloxinias and Tuberous-rooted Begonias. — It is
often found that some of the tubers of Gloxinias
and Begonias have started prematurely, it is then

Febrcary 4, 1899.]

THE GA B DEB E E S ' (JHR 0 NI CL E.

71

the best course to shake the old soil from them and
repot in quite small pots, and place them in a
temperature of 55° to 60°, and later shifting them
into larger pots. Such plants become drawn and
leggy if they are kept back until the bulk of the
plants are started into growth, but treated as
described, they make early flowering plants.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By 0. Herrin, Gardener, Dropinorc, Maidenhead.

Canker in Apple and Pear-trees. — A good remedy

for canker in Apple and Pear-trees that are other-
wise healthy, consists of scrubbing the infected
parts with a little soft-soap and water, at a tempe-
rature of not less than 130°, and when dry apply-
ing a dressing of Stockholm - tar and tallow,
brushing it well into the cankered parts with a
half-worn-out painter's brush. To seven parts of
Stockholm-tar add two parts of Russian tallow,
and warm iu an old saucepau, stirring it well till
incorporated. This may be applied without the
least injury to the bark at the present season.

The Blackbt rii/.- -The treatment accorded the
Raspberry will in most particulars suit the Black-
berry, Its fruits make an excellent preserve and
jelly, and they may be used mixed with Apples iu
tarts. As with the Raspberry, its canes may be
plauted during the next few weeks, weather per-
mitting, and thereby many waste spots may be
made profitable that would be otherwise waste.
The best results are obtained in rather light and
stony soil of fair depth, with moist surroundings in
the shape of springs or pools ; and where such
situations are obtainable, the plants may be allowed
to grow in a somewhat natural manner, the more so
a? much pruning and tying is not being adapted to
its requiremeuts. There appears to be a good
demand for Hue Blackberries, as a Buckinghamshire
market-grower a short time since assured me lie
could always find a ready sale for his Blackberries
when put up in 1 lb. punnets, at i'yl. per lb. This
grower cultivates either a seedling or selected form
of our British variety, Rubus fruticosus, on land
similar to that described above. The plants produce
loug growths, which are allowed to arch over after
one tie is afforded to a central stout stake at about
5 feet in height, growths from 12 feet to 15 feet or
more being made, the points of which are allowed to
b .•ml over anil touch the ground, where by pegging
them down, roots are quickly formed, and the
top furnishes eventually a strong youug plant for
removal to another position. The old canes are cut
away annually, but other than the removal of the
rooted points, no shortening of the young growth
is permitted, and by this method wonderful crops
are obtained. The varieties most grown in gardens
are Rubus laciuiatus, the Parsley-leaved Bramble,
and the American-raised Wilson Junior. Both arc
strong-growers, and should be given the support of
a trellis or stakes, as above, aud treated similarly.
The Wilson Junior especially should be planted iu
a warm situation, such as a bank or border sloping
to the south. Digging amoug the plants should
not be practised, but a slight surface-stirring and
good mulching of rotten manure may now be
applied as a winter-dressing.

Protecting II" Fig. — In the event of severe frosts
occurring, it will be advisable to have some mate-
rial iu readiness for the protection of out-of-door
Fig-trees. For this purpose thatched hurdles, or
strips of stout wood nailed together and similarly
thatched, that may be stood just under the wall
coping to a yard from the wall at the base, will be
suitable, to be removed when not frosty, as the
trees are best if exposed in mild weather.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W II. Ynrsi:. Orcliid Grower to Sir Frederick Wioan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Winter-flowering Cattleyas and other Species. -
Among these plants Cattleya Triauan takes the
first place, with C. quadricolor (ehocoensis), and C.
Percivaliaua as useful companions. When the
flower buds are apparent in the sheath, the culti-
vator should afford them a more generous supply
of water till the flowers expand, when, for the
welfare of blooms and plant, a very restricted
quantity is desirable ; and this kind of treatment
should continue until the new breaks have made
considerable progress. Iu order that exhaustion
should uot occur, the flowers should be removed
about ten or twelve days after the opening, for they
will last as long in a cut state when placed in water

as on the plants. C. Warneri and 0. maxima com-
mence to grow early iu the new year, and it will be
well to let the plants occupy a light position, and
not to hasten growth unduly, or failures are almost
sure to follow, loss' of flowers being the least. A
very limited supply of water should be afforded
them, the time when aud the quantity beiug deter-
mined by the condition of the pseudo-bulbs, whether
shrivelled much or little. C. Luddemanniana,
which we keep iu the East-Indiau-house the entire
year, requires a severe course of resting to induce
the plant to flower.

Winte.r-flowering Lcclias and Others. Those
species which flower during our winter are mostly
natives of Mexico, hence the term " Mexican
Ladias " given to L. anceps and its white and other
varieties, autumnalis, albida, Eyermanniana, pur-
puracea, aud rubescens. Most of these having
now finished flowering, they should have a de-
cided rest before the work of next season com-
mences. With this object in view, dryness at the
root is essential ; also dryness of the air, so long as
the pseudo-bulbs are uot dried so much as to cause
shrivelling to an excessive degree. The first-named
species and its varieties will, before long, begin
rooting anew, and in their ease a moister condition
of the materials is desirable. L. majalis may even
now be showing signs of activity ; but disregarding
this fact, the plants must be kept very dry, or they
will be induced to grow prematurely, and without
flowering. I.. crispa in numerous instances will
be iu a forward state of growth, and so soon as new
roots are detected, any top-dressing that is needed
should be done, first picking out as much of the old
material as possible. Water should be very
sparingly applied, even after new material has
been added, or the young growths will rot off ; a
light aud warm position in the Cattleya-house
should be selected for this species now that it is
growing. L. pumila, praestans, and Dayaua, which
should be grown iu a house having a few degrees
less heat than the above, aud where more shade i
afforded during the summer, will now require
careful treatment iu the matter of water, to prevent
the plants breaking into growth auew before they
have recovered from the efforts of flowering. It is
uot advisable to allow the potting material to
remain dry for any great length of time ; still, it
should not be thoroughly saturated.

' 'aelogyn cristata is a most attractive, useful, aud
easily-cultivated Indian Orchid, which any gai
deuer might cultivate aud flower successfully,
providing a glass structure exists iu which a tern
perature of about 50' may be maintained during
the winter, and shade afforded in summer. The
plant is now in bloom, aud preparations for the
■ext scasou of flowering must be taken into con-
sideration. No water having been supplied since
some time previous to the plant's flowering, imme-
diately after the racemes are removed the soil
should receive a thorough application of rain-water,
and be allowed to become moderately dry before
affording another, and which need not be so liberal.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN

By II. MvuKimi, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Barnet.

Mushroom*. — Iu order to keep up a regular
supply of Mushrooms, it is necessary that a bed or
beds be made up at intervals of four weeks. In
the making of Mushroom-beds, ouly sweet and
well-prepared materials should be employed, and
these should contain a good proportion of the
dung of corn-fed horses, together with the
shorter strawy litter, and a small quantity both
of fresh loam aud cow-dung. It is the rule to col-
lect daily what stable-manure there is available on
a private place, and throw this into a heap, and
when enough to form a bed or two beds, to spread
it out a foot thick on the floor of an open shed for
a week to let it part with its rankest heat, then
throw it again into a heap, and turn it once or twice,
aud in about one week it will be fit for making into
a bed. Let this be put firmly together when the
heat, as tested by the thermometer, stands at
about 8()3 or 85° ; insert pieces of the spawn, iu
pieces the size of a hen's egg, at intervals of a foot,
all over the bed, and "case" the surface with
sifted loam. Some gardeuers leave the final cover-
ing for a week ; but if there is no risk of the heat
becoming too excessive, the beds may be finished
wheu spawned. Keep the temperature of the
structure from 55° to dO', and in about six weeks
Mushrooms should be springing up all over the

bed. A slight covering of hay will help to retain
heat aud moisture in the beds, aud hasten the
appearance of the crop ; but this must be lightly put
on, aud should be once a week lifted up. The thick-
ness of a bed in the Mushroom-house proper need not
exceed 14 inches. Ascertain if beds in bearing are
suffering from lack of moisture, aud when moisture
is required, let it be afforded by means of a fine-
rose watering-can at a temperature of 70° to 75 .

Hints on cum nt "/•• rations. — The spell of frosty
weather has rendered the wheeling of manure on
to the vegetable quarters an easy matter. If a
piece of ground is uot cleared of its last crop, wheel
the manure to a spot adjacent to it. Wheu the
frost disappears, the main Onion quarter should !>•'
partly got in readiness for sowing at a later datf .
The land for this crop should be heavily manured,
aud brought to a flue tilth ; and if the maggot was
troublesome last year, afford a heavy dressing of
fresh soot aud quick-lime just before the drills are
opened. Iu the meantime, the dressing of manure
should suffice. Onion-land needs deep digging, buf
this is best performed in November, and it is very
uecessary that it should be consolidated before the
sowing is made, aud that cannot be the case if jt
have to be trenched at this date, although land
simply dug can be made firm enough. Late keepers
are James', Bedfordshire Champion, a very good
and reliable variety, and both grow large enough
for ordinary purposes ; and Giant Zittauer ; and,
for early drawing, the silvery-looking Queen.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.

Candy. As a further help to candy-makers, I beg
to add that wo boil our candy for ten minutes after
it has reached the boiling-point, and by strict
attention to details get our cakes of just thai
nice firmness requisite to stand a two-mile shake
up to the out-apiary without collapsing into an
unstable mass, yet soft enough to allow the fingei
to be easily pressed into the cakes, or to meH
in one's mouth without mastication or sucking.
When removed from the lire, the saueep.ni i
placed in a vessel of cold water, the water reaching
to the height of the liquid candy inside. This is left
a few minutes while the moulds are being lined
with paper to receive it when ready. I then eom
meucc stirring until the coutents of saucepan assume
a consistency which just allows it to run into the
mould before the mixture stiffens. Beginners are
apt to handle their bees too frequently ; and it
should be remembered that disturbance causes
abnormal consumption of food, with the con lequei li
distention of the viscera, in seasons not permitting
of a cleansing flight. Draught or damp also lead
to the same effect, ending in so-called dysentery.
Many old fashioned bee-keepers feed all winter,
causing excitement and other evils. If feeding be
absolutely necessary, it should be doue by giving a
full comb of food from another stock, or a cake of
soft candy. Too much unsealed honey, or badly-
made food which ferments iu the cells, unwhole-
some uatural food, or even an undue quantity of
pollen, all lead to the evils of bowel-distention and
death. Prevention is better than cure iu these,
cases ; therefore, attention should be given at the
proper time, that all food may be sealed over before
bees settle down for winter. A few days' neglect in
failing to examine doorways iu midwinter sometimes
ends in the suffocation of the stock. Stroug colour s
may have their doorways left open 6 or more inches.
Weak stocks, or any where signs of robbing are
seen, should have the entrances covered with per-
forated zinc, iu which a doorway about an inch long
is cut.

Damp. -This may arise from a leaky roof, or one
that is not freely ventilated : or it may be caused
by floor-boards resting too near the damp ground.
Hives without legs should always be raised a fool
or so in winter.

The Rosary.

— »

Rose "Papa Lambert."
The last issue of the Rosen Zeilung contains -n
figure of "Papa Lambert," a H. T. with rich ro i ■
coloured flowers. It originated from the pollination
of White Lady H. T. by Marie Baumann H. P.
together with pollen of Oxar Cordel. Whether
both putative pollen parents exercised any influence
is surely doubtful.

72

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 4, 1809.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants f«r
naming, should It 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
thewriter. If desired, the signature will vol be printed, but
I. ept eis 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.

APPOINTMENTS FOR FEBRUARY.

Horticultural

SATURDAY,
MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

*
WEDNESDAY,

THURSDAY,
SATURDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

THURSDAY,
FRIDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,
WEDNESDAY,

THURSDAY,

SATURDAY,
TUESDAY,

Feb. 4

Feb.

Feb.
Feb.

Feb,

Feb

^Northamptonshire
I Society's Meeting.
'"| Isle of Wight Horticultural Iiu-
^ provement Society's Meeting.

f National Chrysanthemum Society's
8 Aunual Meeting, at the Royal

V Aquarium, at 7 p.m.

Scottish Horticultural Association,
Meting.
I National Amateur Gardeners' Asso-
7( ciation, Meeting.
I Loughborough Gardeners' Meeting.
Bolton Horticultural and Chrysan-
1 themum Society's Meeting.

8— Renfrew Gardeners' Meeting.

,. f Manchester Horticultural Iiu.
' \ provenient Society's Meetiug.

j Royal Botanic, General Meeting.
11 Dutch Gardeners' Society's Meeting
( at Richmond.

("United Horticultural Benevolent
13-[ and Provident Sucicty's Com-

V mittee Meeting.
Royal Horticultural Society's Com-

Feb. 14

/■Royal Hoi
I inittees.
j National I

. Rose Society's Goimnittee

Meeting.

Royal Horticultural Society of
, Ireland, Meeting.

Fin. 16 — Linnean Society, Meetin
Feb.

J

Royal Gardeners'
Annual Meetin'

Orphan Fund :
and Elect i- hi of

Fan.
Feb.

FiSB.

Feb.

Feb.
Feb.

Pensioners, at Anderton's Hotel
Fleet S'

fShivley G
20-! Improvement Association, Meet

\ Fleet Street, E.G., at 3 p.m.

Gardeners' and Amateurs'

I

21— Loughborough Gardeners' Meeting.

22— Renfrew Gardeners' Meeting.

|" Annual General Meeting of the Kcw
23< Guild, in the Garden Library,
V at s p.m.

/Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.
»-[ Dutch Gardeners' Society's Meeting
^ at Richmond.

. / Royal Horticultural Society's Com-
' i inittees.

SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

{Ruses, Gloxinias, Spira-as, P;eo-
nies, &c, at Prntlieroe & Morris"
Rooms.

/"Hardy Perennials, Carnations,
Dahlias, &c, at Protheroe &

Fi n

^ Morris' Rooms.

WEDNESDAY, Feb.

THURSDAY,

FRIDAY,

Feb.

{Japanese Lilies, Iris, New Violets,
Tuberoses, &c, at Protheroe &
Morris' Rooms.

Plants in

Morris'

j Hardy Border Bulbs, ami I
!>-[ variety, at Protheroe &
\_ Rooms.

/Anemones, Roses, Carnations, &c,
at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.
I Imported and Established Orchids,
I at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 39'2°.
Actual Temperatures :—

London. — February 1 (Gp.m.): Max., 41°; Min., 35°.
Provinces.— February 1 (6 p.m.): Max., 42°, Scilly ;
Min., 35 . E Scotland.
Slight frost, easterly winds, tine.

In looking forward to the arrange-
Cross Breeding, merits for tlie present year at

home and abroad, there is nothing
of so much intrinsic importance as the Con-
ference on Hybridisation, to be held under the
auspices of the Royal Horticultural Society in
July next. We have already published the
details of the programme so far as they can be

arranged so long beforehand. They comprise
two meetings — one at Chiswick, the other in
the Lindley Library, or, as we suppose, in the
Drill Hall, if the exhibits are very numerous.
At these meetings points of great scientific inte-
rest and practical importance will be discussed.
It is not probable that the programme as printed
can be carried out in its entirety, but that is of
the less consequence as the papers will be printed
at length in the Society's Journal.

It rests with the exhibitors to render their
part of the work a success ; and considering the
fact that the progress of horticulture of late
years has depended so greatly on the practice of
cross-breeding, we cannot doubt but that the
exhibition will be one of the greatest interest.

New plants, in the sense of new introductions,
have of late years fallen off, except in the one
case of Orchids. New plants raised by the skill
of the experimental gardener have vastly in-
creased, and wonderfully added to the beauty
and interest of our gardens. Varieties and
species and genera only differ in degree one
from another, and the limitation of the groups
in question is very much a subject of personal
judgment. Hence the terms " cross-breeding "
and "hybridisation" are often used indiscrimi-
nately, though, as a rule, the first term applies
to the intercrossing of varieties, the second to
that of species. When the cross is effected
between species belonging to what are considered
two genera, the result is a bigener or bigerieric
hybrid.

In the old days, when " species " were looked
on as something sacrosanct, some good people
deemed it presumptuous, or almost impious, to
attempt to interfere with what they considered
was the order of Nature. The naturalists of
the day naturally also objected strongly to the
procedures of the hybridists, which broke down
the barriers between species and species, and
upset the carefully -framed systems of classifi-
cation— so much the worse for the system,
as we now think. Dean Herbert it was
who combated the narrow views of those
who objected to hybridisation on the score
of presumption. He it was who pointed
out that so far from being presumptuous,
the hybridisers were really extending, deepen-
ing, and making more widely-known the limit-
less marvels of creation. He had no difficulty
in showing that the truest religious feeling in
this matter was with the experimenters. What
is more to our purpose, he showed that hybridi-
sation occurs naturally. He first of all sus-
pected that certain wild forms of Narcissi were
of hybrid origin, and then he proved the cor-
rectness of his suspicions by crossing the species
one with the other, and obtaining the same
hybrid by artificial means. When it was thus
shown that hybrids occurred in Nature, and
further, that they were by no means always
sterile, but frequently fertile, there was an end
of the fictitious religious difficulty.

Among Orchids, Reichenbach described very
many as hybrids, because, in his judgment, they
combined the characteristics of two species
known to grow in the same vicinity.

Messrs. Veitch and other experimenters have
in many eases proved the correctness of Reichen-
bach's conclusions, by producing in their estab-
lishments the self-same hybrid that, was at first
only known in the natural condition.

Herbert anticipated Darwin in many of his
speculations, but his work is not sufficiently
appreciated even now. Kolreuter, and
Gaertner, and Sprbngel, are known to our
botanical students, nourished on pabulum made
in Germany ; and far be it from us to suggest,

even remotely, the belittling of these great
pioneers. What we want to do is, to direct
the attention of the students to the work of our
own countryman, Herbert, as set forth in the
Journal nf the Royal Hoitinillnial Society, and
elsewhere. If those works are carefully con-
sidered by our students, they will, we think, be
somewhat astonished at the way in which
Herbert anticipated the knowledge of the
present day.

Thomas Andrew Knight, so long the Pre-
sident of the Society, was another hybridiser
who worked with a purpose : his aim was
mainly practical, and some Apples, such as
Downton Pippin and others, remain to this day,
as does Knight's Monarch Pear ; while his
Marrow Pea may be taken as the origin of many
of our best modern varieties.

Before his time, Philip Miller was at work
crossing Tulips at Chelsea, and Thomas Faik-
L'HlLD of Hoxton has the credit of raising the
very first artificially-produced hybrid known,
in the shape of a mule Pink, produced by
crossing D. barbatus and D. caryophyllus.

Coming now to our own times, is there any
more remarkable experiment, or series of experi-
ments, on record, than those which have secured
to us the possession of the tuberous Begonia I
So great is the change brought about by John
Laing and Victor Lemoine, that a new genus
— or, shall we say, a group, equal in value to a
genus — has been framed to receive them, and
the name LemoineaX assigned to it.

Without doing more on this occasion than
make passing allusion to the now numerous
bigenerie hybrids among < Irchids, we may men-
tion as striking illustrations of the results of
cross-breeding, the magnificent series of green-
house Rhododendrons issued by Messrs.
Veitch, and the fine series of Clematis sent out
by Messrs. Jackman.

Among the. so-called florists' flowers, cross-
breeding of varieties has given us the astonish-
ing Dahlias and Cinerarias of the present day,
and the still more remarkable Chrysanthemums.

It is needless to cite other illustrations,
such as might be given by the score ; it is
enough to say that progress in this department
of horticulture has been more marked than in
any other. We can indeed, hardly conceive a
limit to our progress in this matter, for, if we
find ourselves baulked in one direction, there
are endless other avenues open to us. It is
confidently expected that the Hybridisation
Conference will show this, and especially that it
will be the means of guiding and directing
experiment in the most likely channels, so as to
avoid waste of time and energy, prevent the
pursuit of phantasms, and tend to the develop-
ment of degrees of beauty and utility now
undreamt of.

Linnean Society, Jan. 19 : William Car-
rothers, F.R.S., Vice-Presideut, in the Chair. —
Mr. A. J. Maslen read a paper ou " Lepidostro-
bus." After remarking that the late Professor
Williamson's eollectioa of fossil-plants in the
Natural History Museum contained a number of
slides which he had associated with Lepidostrobus,
but which could not be referred with certainty to
the particular vegetative organs to which they
belonged, while it was difficult also to refer
isolated sections of the same type of Strobilus to
one another, he explained that the preseut paper
gave the result of a re examination of William-
son's slides of Lepidostrobus, undertaken at the
suggestion of Dr. D. H. Scott. His object and
endeavour had been to make out, if possible, at
least some distinct forms ; but he had fotiud great
difficulty in determining whether the observed

February 4, 1S09.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

73

structural differences in isolated sections were
really of specific value or not. He considered it
safer to adopt Williamson's Lepidostrobus Old-
hami for a common type of structure, and by com-
parison to describe tbree marked variations (a, B,
and 7). A clearly distinct form he described as a
new specie, under the name Lepidostrobus
foliaceus. A discussion followed, in which the
Chairman, Dr. D. H. Scott and Mr. W. Worsdell
took part.

Order of St. Michael and St. George.
■—At Osborne, on Monday last, January 30, the
Queen conferred the honour of knighthood on

generally. The second of the series was given ou
Jan. 30, dealing with the effects of age of seed,
suitable soils, change of seed and the reason for it,
quantity of seed per acre, &c. The subject chosen
was Grass-seeds, Alopecurus prateusis, Dactylis
glomerata, and Festuca elatior. Impurities were
specified and described. On Monday, 6th inst.,
other species of grasses will be taken and dealt
with similarly.

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institu-
tion.— We are desired to correct a misstatement
made in our last issue in regard to the date of the
annual dinner, which was announced for July 28

Street, London, E.C., on Friday, February 17
next, for the purpose of receiving the report of tho
committee, and the accounts for the past year;
to elect officers for the ensuing year ; to
elect nine children to the benefits of the Fund;
and to make the following alterations in the Rules,
viz. : — E ule V. Line four, after the word " purpose,"
to omit the words, " All donations and legacies ; "
and to insert the following : " All receipts, except
legacies and donations, specially given as such for
investment, shall be considered as subscriptions, and
be available for current expenditure. All legacies
and special donations." Rule XI. Line five, after
the word "require," to make the following addi-

fc£i£

> a
ft

t __

Fig. 24.— odontoglossum-house ik the gardens at kkeeland, Perthshire, (see f. 06.)

William Tirner Thiselton Dyer, Esq., Director
of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in recognition
of services rendered to C'olouial Governments. The
new knight was then invested with the Riband and
Badge, and the Star of his dignity in the < >rder
was affixed to his left breast by Her Majesty.

Royal Botanic Society. — A course of
lectures and demonstrations, as has been previously
stated, on the subject of seed-testing and seed-
control, by Mr. 1). Fim.ayson, is being delivered
in tli3 Museum at the Society's Gardens on Monday
afternoons until March '21, the first of the series
having been given on Monday afternoon, Jan. 23,
at 3.30, for the benefit of students of agriculture,
horticulture, laudscape gardening, and of botany

instead of June 2(S. The secretary desires us to
state that the following sums have been given
towards the completion of the Victorian Era Fund :
— Mr. W. G. Monro an additional £50, Mr. Osmy.n
£10, and Mr. E. C. Mott £5 5*.

The Chelsea Garden.— We are glad to find
the British Medical Journal aud theP/tarmaa ulical
Journal, whose opinions on such a matter are neces-
sarily weighty, endorsing our remarks as to the
desirability of providing for due instruction in
systematic botany.

Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund. — The

annual general meeting of the subscribers to this
Fund will be held at Anderton's Hotel, Fle^t

tion : — " Not more than two children of the same
family can be in receipt of the benefits of the
Fund at the same time." The chair will be taken
at 3 o'clock. The poll will close at 4.30 P.M., after
which no votes will he received. The voting-papers
have all been issued, any subscriber not having
received oue is requested to communicate with the
Secretary. By order, A. F. Barron, Secretary.

Science Teaching in Horticulture. — A
class for instruction in the principles of horticul-
ture will be held by Mr. Wilfred Mark Webb,
F.L.S., at 2, The Broadway, Hammersmith, ou
Monday evenings, at 7.30 p.m., commencing ou
Monday, February 6, the fee being 10s. for the ten
lectures (including any extra meetings found neces-

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[FkBRIART 4, 1899.

sary as the time for the holding of the Koyal Hor-
ticultural Society's examination approaches). Appli-
cation should be made to the lecturer at the above-
mentioned address.

Mr. J. G. Baker. — On the occasion of the
retirement of this gentleman from the post of
Curator of the Herbarium at Kew, his old
colleagues, the members of the staff, presented him
with an address expressive of their affectionate
respect. A representation of the elegant Bromeliad,
called Bakeria tillandsioides, drawn by Miss Smith,
the botanical artist, served to frame the address.
The signatures were confined to permanent members
of the staff and to one or two regular visitors to the
Herbarium. Had it been otherwise many others
would have been proud and pleased to have had the
opportunity of adding their tribute of respect and
gratitude to one who has done so much for botany
and gardening.

CHAMBRE SYNDICALE DE GAND.— On Sunday,
February 5, at 2 p.m., a banquet will be offered at
the Hotel de la Poste, Ghent, to MM. E. Bediug-
haus, Fr. Crepin, Rom. De Smet, A. Hoste, J. Hye
de Crom, P. Nicaise, E. Pynaert, H. Van Hulle,
and Ch. Vuylsteke, all of whom received honours
during the year 1898, for their services to horti-
culture.

" Gardening for All."— A copy of the second
edition of this useful little book, Gardening for All,
has been sent to the Queen by the author, Mr. .1.
Udale, of Droitwich, the gardening instructor for
Worcestershire. Mr. Udale was graciously thanked
by Her Majesty, through the Master of the
Household, for his present.

The Surveyors' Institution.— The next
ordinary general meeting will be held on Monday,
February 6, 1S99, when the adjourned discussion on
the paper read by Mr. Wm. Weaver (Fellow) at
the meeting of December 12, 1898, entitled "The
London Building Act, 1894, and the Official Super-
vision of Buildings, " will be resumed. The chair
will be taken at 8 o'clock. Members who are
Graduates of any of the recognised Universities of
tin' United Kingdom are requested to intimate the
fact to the Secretary of the Institution, in order
that the same may be indicated in the next issue
of the list of members.

Plums from the Cape. — An admittedly
early (if small) consignment of fruit has reached
us, per a " Union " steamship, from the Cape ; it
cousisted of first-class Plums, and the import
manager, in advising us of the matter says : — " The
steamer brought eight boxes of Plums, twenty-
four Plums in each box ; these were all in excel-
lent condition, and were considered to be the best
Plums ever brought from the colony. They were
sold privately at Covent Garden, and realised a very
high price." A very good start for the season.

Pharmaceutical Students working in
Loudon are, says the Pharmaceutical Journal,
favoured by the addition of a new feature to the
Museum at 17, Bloomsbury Square, in the shape of
a Wardian-case containing living medicinal plauts.
The idea — originating with the Curator, Mr. E. M.
Holmes — is that an additional interest will be im-
parted to the study of vegetable materia medica if
as mauy as possible of the plants yielding medicinal
products can be seen in the living condition by
students. The first lot of specimens exhibited in-
cludes Eucalyptus Globulus (Myrtacete), with
Howers and flower-buds gathered at Cannes, and
sent by Mr. E. Goodwin Mumbray of Kew ;
Smilax aspera (Liliacese), the root of which is used
in Italy in the same way as Sarsaparilla, also
gathered at Cannes, and gathered by Mr. Mum-
bray ; and Hamamelis virginica (Hamameli-
dacaic), from the Cambridge Botanic Garden.

New York Botanic Garden.— On January 3,
a beginning was made with the range of glass-
houses to be erected in the gardeu. The illustra-
tion given in American Gardening shows a glass

and iron, dome-shaped structure in the middle, with
a wing on ca.di side terminating in a large pavilion.
The garden occupies an area of 250 acres. The
Director in chief is Dr. N. L. Bkitton. We tender
our respectful congratulations to the citizens of
New York, and specially to the Torrey Botanical
Club, aud to the Director, on the prospect before
them of a botanic garden worthy of the nation, and
which cannot fail to be of the greatest service to
botany and horticulture.

Proposed Testimonial to Mr. Turton.—

We understand that it is proposed to present Mr.
T. Turton, who, for a period of twenty years, was
gardener at Maiden Erlegh, near Beading, and now
fills a similar post at Sherborne Castle, Dorset, with
a testimonial, iu recognition of his services to
horticulture in the district. The following gar-
deners and others have consented to serve on the
Committee :— Mr. J. W. McHattie, Mr. G. Stan-
ton, Mr. J. Tegg, Mr. T. Neve, Mr. F. Bright, Mr.
G. Trinder, Mr. J. Bowerman, Mr. A. Dean, Mr.
W. Heath, Mr. J. Hudson, Mr. F. Cole, Mr. J.
Coombes, Mr. W. Lees, Mr. J. Woolford, Mr. J.
Martin, treasurer, and Mr. J. Pound, hon. sec. ,
who will be pleased to receive subscriptions ; or
they may be forwarded direct to Mr. J. Pound,
hon. secretary, 47, Donnington Road, Reading.
Those who feel disposed to subscribe, must do so
before February 11, on which day it is proposed to
close the fund.

OPEN SPACES. -There has for some time past,
we believe, been some friction between local and
municipal authorities as to the keeping up of small
open spaces, and to set the matter at rest and on
a satisfactory basis, a conference was held on the
26th ult. representative of the London County
Council and the local governing bodies of London,
to consider the whole matter. A resolution was
ultimately passed declaring that the coutrol of
such spaces should be undertaken by the sanitary
authorities for the various districts, the cost being
met by annual payment from the Council. It will
be necessary, we suppose, to lay down rules for the
guidance of the "authority," else the proposed new
order of things may not prove the success it is
designed to be.

Flowers and Vegetables in Tibet. —Messrs.
James Carter & Co. write from 237, High
Holborn : — "Although many parts of this enor-
mous Central Asian territory have not yet beeu
trodden by Europeans, it may interest you to kuow
that we have a lady customer at Yatong — the only
British resident, we believe, in that city — who
possesses a gardeu and grows vegetables aud flowers.
Her communications reach us with regularity vid
Darjiling. Quite recently we have received a
report upon the value and adaptability of these
products iu that climate, 10,000 feet above the level
of the sea, where snow falls sometimes in May, and
begins again iu October. Amongst the informa-
tion giveu, we are told that Tomatos produce flowers
but no fruit, Onions decline to form a bulb; Cab-
bage, Carrot, Turnip, and Mustard-and-Cress are
excellent. Peas are good at certain times. Nearly
all our common gardeu llowcrs proved a success."

When is a Gardener not a Hired
Servant? — Important License Case. A pro-
secution, instituted by the Iuland Revenue autho-
rities at Manchester last week, has raised the
question, whether or not, a gardener employed by a
nurseryman to do work in a private garden, is a
male servant for which a licence should be held by
the nurseryman. The defence was that the agree
ment between the defendant (nurseryman) and Mr.
Estoourt, the proprietor of the garden, was of the
nature of a cout,' ict to do work required upon a
certain area. Th - defeudant was not required to
complete the work in a giveu time, or to supply
ouly a particular ndividual to execute it, therefore
he could not be held liable under the Act. As a
matter of fact also, the workman had not worked
a full day at Mr. Estcoiirt's garden. The stipen-
diary magistrate found that defendant was liable

for the licence, aud inflicted a nominal tine of 5s. ,
and costs. Leave was grauted to state a case for
appeal ; aud it is hardly likely that nurserymen
will submit to this new item of taxation until a
decision has beeu obtained from the highest courts.

American Notes.

THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS FOB A
NEW CARNATION !

When the late Mr. Bennett sold the Rose Her
Majesty to an American for 10,000 dollars it was
thought that the price paid was pheuomenal,
aud would stand as a record-breaker for generation-;.
During the past week, however, a new Carnation,
named Mrs. Thomas W. Lawsou, raised by Mr.
Peter Fisher, of Ellis, Mass. (a very intelligent
Scotsman, who has already introduced some good
novelties in Carnations), was sold to Mr. Thomas
W. Lawson, a well-known Boston banker, for
110,000 dollars. The Carnation iu quustiou was
named iu honour of Mr. Lawson's wife, and several
offers hail beeu made for the stock of the plant by
New York and Chicago magnates. To show that
Boston could appreciate aud pay for a good thing
as well as her more populous if less refined sister,
Mr. Lawsou made his magnificent offer, which was
accepted. The new Carnation iu question was
raised from a batch of seedlings four years ago by
Mr. Fisher ; he has worked up a stock of 8000
plauts during that time, and the flowers bring a
higher price than auy other Carnation on the
market, bringing three dollars per dozen at retail,
while the average varieties net only from fifty
cents to one aud a half dollars per dozeu. The
flower is of a rich, dark-pink colour, calyx very
stout, aud stem very long and stiff : it has secured
Certificates, Silver Cups, and Silver Medals where-
ever exhibited. Mrs. Lawson is a free and
persistent bloomer, aud has created a greater stir
than any other Carnation raised here. It is not
yet known what Mr. Lawsou will do with his new
purchase ; it was Mr. Fisher's intention to hold it
until 1900 ere disseminating it, but the new owner
may decide to place it on the market, aud will
unquestionably get most of his purchase-money
back through sales of rooted cuttings, besides an
immense amount of gratuitous advertising through-
out the length and breadth of the country. If
.'10,000 dollars can be had for a new Carnation, what
may not the raiser of a blue Rose or Chrysanthe-
mum hope to get iu the future? II'. jY. Craig,
Taunton, Mans., U.S.A., January 22, 1S99.

NOTES FOE NOVICES.— II.

Potting. — Unless an exception lie made iu the
case of watering, it may be doubted if there is any
operation in the whole range of gardening which
necessitates more practical experiouce for its suc-
cessful prosecution than does potting. To attempt
to instruct a pupil iu the best method of potting
an Orchid, or any other plant, by books alone,
would therefore be absurd. But although there
are considerable variations in the method of
potting, according to circumstances, the diverse
nature of particular plauts, aud the purpose for
which they are grown, yet, just as iu the case
of digging, there are certain general principles
which are common to all cases. The pupil needs
to have a good grasp of these principles, so as
to be able to apply them properly, and adapt his
methods of procedure in accordance with them, ami
iu conformity with the particular requirements of
the case.

The first thing to remember is the very artificial
nature of the procedure. We do not grow plauts
so much for their own benefit, as to supply our own
requirements. Can we imagine any plant liking to
have its roots cribbed, cabined, and contiued within
the limits of an earthen pot. As growth in pots
is necessarily au artificial procedure, and one
very likely, if ill doue, to bring about injury

February 4, 1S99.]

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

i ■>

to the plant, it is surely our duty to avoid this,
by making the plant as comfortable as possible
under the circumstances. The plant is a living
being, and demands from us in its degree that con-
sideration which it is our duty to extend to our
fellow creatures of all descriptions. Some may
think this rather far-fetched, but it is true in sub-
stance and in practice ; the more nearly and com-
pletely we can act up to it the better in all cases
will our cultivation be.

Culture in pots, theu, resolves itself in the first
instance into the best means for promoting the

of most potting composts, and supplies the require-
ments of the plants. The soil is made permeable
enough to permit the free access of air, which is
essential if the plaut is not to be suffocated.
Provision is also made for the passage of water
which must be provided, or the plaut will die of
inanition. Hence, the directions given to employ
none but clean pots, so that nothing may obstruct
the passage of air or watery vapour, and hence,
also, the care required to crock the pots properly,
and to obviate anything like stagnant water,
which, as has been said, kills the plant by

FlG, 25.— first attlmii by

YOUNGSTER AT 10 YEARS
OF AGE.

Fig. 26.~fikds ihe Rifiiu

FND— AT 12 VI IRS

Fig. 27.— wet feet— li

TFARS.

Yl'.. 2S.— PRY FEET-
lli YEARS.

FlO. 2f». — HUNEST MEAS1 Rl
17 YEARS.

(©"I—-.

Fig. 30.- it-

18 VI w -.

Fli . 31.— IN A HURRY-
19 YEARS.

Fig. 32. — CARELESS

20 YEARS.

Rir.HT AM' WEONG .METHODS OF FOTTINn.

Fit.. 33. — IN BUSINESS FOB
HIMSELF— 21 YEARS.

growth and the action of roots under particular
conditions. The conditions are the same as were
alluded to in a previous note when the question of
digging was under consideration. The roots are
alive — very much so ; they are so sensitive as to be
almost intelligent, and they are endowed with a
considerable amount of locomotion, which enables
them to thread their way between the particles of
soil in their search for air aud water. Light is of
little use to them directly, but a certain degree of
heat is absolutely necessary to their welfare.
These conditions are satisfied by careful potting.
The admixture of loam, leaf-mould, or peat and
pure sand, in varying proportions, forms the basis

suffocating it. The water, even when it docs
not run away freely, is always passing by evapo-
ration. That evaporation, unless means be taken
to obviate it, is necessarily attended with a loss
of heat, the unfortunate plant gets a chill — takes
cold, in fact. We may see the consequences of
this in arrested growth, yellow colour of the leaves,
and other evidences of disturbed health

The soil-food is supplied by the compost, the loam
furnishes the potash, the phosphates and the lime
that are required ; the leaf-mould yields nitrates
aud perhaps carbonic acid, though the greater part
of the carbon in plants is derived directly from
the air by the agency of the leaves. It is easy to

add to the soil food by the occasional application of
liquid-manure after the potting has been accom-
plished, or inlinitessimal quantities of sulphate of
ammonia, nitrate of soda, potash, or phosphate of
lime may be used singly or in combination with the
potting-soil. Preferably, these ingredients may bu
used as a top-dressing subsequently, but some gar-,
deners mix them with the pottiug-soil ; or they may
be inserted in the form of little capsules, as in the
method employed by M. Georges Truffaut, the con-'
tents of the capsule being varied according to the
plaut to be cultivated. The mechanical texture of
the soil, whilst fulfilling these requirements, also
secures a free passage of the rootlets in all direc-
tions, so that they may thoroughly permeate the
soil and reach the sides of the pot, where the
circulation of air aud moisture is freest.

In gardening books directions are given to put
firmly or moderately, to use small-sized pots to
begin with, and to shift the plant when necessary
into other pots not much larger than the original
one. In other cases large shifts are prescribed.
These and similar directions have principally refer-
ence to the nature of the roots, aud to the purpose
for which the plant is grown. The fine, hair-
like, spreading roots of a Heath, for instance,
require a different style of potting from that
required by the thick, fleshy roots of a bullions
plant, which go straight downward. The creeping
roots of an Orchid, with their spongy coat, full of
air, and their green tips, indicate the necet-sity for
allowing the freest access of air, aud in this case
even of light. When a plant is required to grow
freely, its roots must not be allowed to become too
densely matted, or they will strangle one another.
They will become spirally twisted, and when the
shift is made iuto another pot, or into the open
ground, the plaut leads a miserable existence for a
time, and succumbs to the first strain. But there
are frequent cases where it is more convenient to
us to keep the plants in small pots, and to restrict
the natural growth of the roots ; aud there are
eases where a plaut Mowers all the sooner, and all
tin better for being "pot-bound." Experience along
can teach the way of applying the general prin-
ciples before mentioned to these particular cases,
but in no case is it judicious to bury the "collar''
too deeply, or to suffer the soil to become hardened
or " baked,'' as it may do if the proper texture of
the soil is not attended to, ami if water be im-
properly administered.

As a rule, the best time for potting is in spring,
just as growth is beginning to manifest itself. If
done later, when growth is in full activity, growth
is checked, in the same way as it is in the case of
root-pruning. This arrest may in some cases be
desirable, and tend to induce the production ot
(lowers.

The soil used for potting should always be
approximately of the same temperature as the air.
As potting is usually done under cover, this require
meut is easily fulfilled, and the requisite bottom
heat is readily supplied in the plant-houses.

Out-of-doors, it is often advisable to plunge the
newly -potted plants into a bed of coal-ashes, or to
sink them in the border, with a view to equalise
the temperature and moisture, aud to obviate
undue evaporation from the pot, and consequent
chill.

Other practical hints may bo derived from an
inspection of our illustrations (figs. 25—33), copied
from a volume of American Gardening. S. Retsam.

Home Correspondence.

A WINTER FLORALTREAT. — Ou.lanllary 17, I took
advantage of the invitation given in the Gardener*'
Chronicle by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, to call and see
their show of Cyclamens and Primulas, and I must
certainly congratulate them on such a fiue display.
There were from 2,000 to 3,000 Cyclamens in full
bloom, in many shades of colour, and the beautiful
mottled foliage was quite a feature. Among the
vaiieties that took my special attention were Salmon

76

THE GA B DE NEBS' CHB ONI CL E.

[February 4, 1890.

Queen, Vulcan, with dark crimson flowers ; the
Giant White, and some with flowers of several
shades of deep purple. Very interesting were
some French plumose varieties, grown for hybri-
dising purposes. The Primulas are very interesting
in shades of white, crimson, purple, and blue, both
double and single-flowered, but these latter were,
as yet, hardly at their best. R. M., Newbury.

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE.— Keplying to
Mr. F. W. Burbidge, I may say that this beautiful
Begonia was raised by Messrs. V. Lemoine & Sons, of
Nancy. I find in their Catalogue they state that it
is a hybrid between B. socotrana and B. Dregei. It
received a First-class Certificate from the Royal
Horticultural Society in 1893, but it was some
time after this date that it became generally
knowu. It is remarkable that a plant capable of
giving such an abundance of bloom with little
trouble should have proved a failure with so many
growers. Upon recommending it to a French nur-
seryman, I was told it was of no use whatever iu
France. However, on seeing a good batch of plants
in flower, he was induced to try it, and has since
bought some hundreds. I find it has also been
taken up and grown successfully by some American
nurserymen. Although it is quite the exception
for this Begonia to produce female flowers, I have
found a number on different occasions ; but although
it has been attempted to fertilise them, I have
never seen good seeds. The yellow anthers are
very conspicuous, but I have never been able to dis-
cover any real pollen. I have seen the plant at
Chiswick with the seed-vessel (referred to by
"A. D."), which has all the appearance of being
fertile, but judging from my own experience, I am
afraid it will prove abortive. A. Hemsley.

THE CURRENT YEAR'S ONION CROP. — The

recent heavy rainfall will no doubt cause seme
delay in preparing the ground for seed sowing, &c.
I would suggest, therefore, the necessity to forward
such vegetables as early Peas, Broad Beans, &c, by
sowing enough of these in pots to make a first batch,
and to plant them out afterwards, when danger
from frost has passed. But my particular reason
for writing this note has reference especially to the
Onion crop. Onions are in request all the year
round, and great inconvenience may be caused by
loss of crop through the attack of the Onion-fly. The
seed should be sown now in boxes, and afterwards
placed iu a temperature of 60J until they have ger-
minated ; the boxes should then be shifted into a
house or pit a few degrees cooler. Keep them near
the glass, aud gradually harden off ready for plant-
ing out into well-prepared ground towards the
end of April. The plants will not feel the check,
but start right away, and make nice bulbs by the
end of the season, providing a little attention in
regard to root watering be given them for a short
period following transplantation. The little extra
trouble caused by raising the stock of Onions in
this way is amply repaid by the comparative cer-
tainty of a good crop of bulbs, which will ripen
earlier in the season than those sown in the ordi-
nary way, which may therefore be harvested in a
better condition for keeping. Onions sown iu this
manner have always, iu my experience, escaped
the Onion-fly, while those sown out-of-doors have
invariably suffered from it in a more or less degree.
This was strikingly illustrated to me in 1880 by
two beds of Onions adjoining each other, one of
which was autumn and the other spring-sown.
And whereas the whole of the latter was com-
pletely destroyed by the maggot, the former,
through being too large for the purposes of the
fly, entirely escaped. Since that time, I have
always sown the bulk of our Onion-seed in boxes
at the eud of January, They have been trans-
planted towards the eud of April, and none of the
subsequent crops have been affected by maggot.
Our Onion-quarter here consists of twenty-three
beds, each of which requires 720 plants, and with
the exception of the loss of a few plants when they
are moved, the remainder produce good, serviceable,
well-ripened bulbs. Geo. Woodgate, Rolleston Hall
Gardens, Burton-on- Trent.

MUSHROOMS. — In reference to Mr. Kneller's
letter upon "Mushrooms in Pastures," I may say
that the season here was a short one, there being
but few until after the rainfall on October 12.
Good gatherings then continued only for about a
fortnight. Last spring we procured 2 bushels of
spawn from a first-class London firm, and used it in
different parts of the park and grounds, placing it
about 2£ inches under the turf, and putting a little

old Mushroom-bed manure with the spawn. The
turf was then firmly replaced. The lines or rows
were 6 feet apart, and the spawn was inserted at
distances of 3 feet. This was done at the end of
April. One part was fenced off and mown for hay,
a second was grazed by cattle, and the third part
being within the grounds, it was kept mown. Iu
neither case has there been a Mushroom. I have
been most successful with Mushrooms indoors, but
in this case, if the result be not due to the dry
weather, then I am, like Mr. Kneller, "in a fog."
/. Batters, Gittingham Hall Gardens, Norfolk.

LARGER EXHIBITS. — I am not at all surprised to
read the comments of " W. S. " on my remarks on
the above subject if he be an exhibitor. However,
there may be some among the far-seeing members
of the horticultural world who will agree with me.
No doubt there are some — for their own personal
interest — who would like to see the number of
exhibits greatly reduced. In my opinion there is
nothing awkward (as " W. S." terms it) in gar-
dening or shows if there exists a determination to
carry out a new project, but some men get into a
groove out of which it is impossible to move them.
With regard to " W. S.'s " ideas that small exhibits
represent a man's ability in every way, is simply
nonsense — how can it do so ? — every expert gar-
dener knows that in order to produce larger exhi-
bits, far higher talents, greater foresight, and more
energy are required than to produce a smaller one.
I wish to point out the improvement that would
accrue, and the advantages following the practice
of larger exhibits. We should remember there are
the visitors and patrons of our shows who should
be catered for, for it is by their help that our
flower-shows are kept up ; therefore, we should do
all that is possible to make the shows worthy of
their patronage. A. J. L., Wyfold Court.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AUSTRALIE AND MR. T.
CARRINQTON. — The Classification Committee of the
National Chrysanthemum Society has bracketed
these two varieties as being either " synonymous,
or too much alike." This 6iirely is a mistake ; or
is it au attempt to disparage a really valuable
variety ? Notwithstanding this classification, Mr.
T. Carrington will make a reputation for itself, and
will continue to occupy a promiuent position ; and
it is quite distinct from Australie in colour and
form. The former is richer and clearer in tint, the
florets are smoother and more even, and they are
less whorled, aud no competent judge would have
any difficulty in discriminating between them.
They are, I think, much more distinct than Tride
of Madford and Duke of York, or Mrs. Mease and
G. J. Warreu ; iu fact, a bloom from an early
bud of the latter could easily be shown as Mrs.
Mease, and doubtless this has been done suc-
cessfully. Of course, I do not argue that G. J.
Warren and Mrs. Mease should be bracketed
as "too much alike," but' that the Classification
Committee in bracketing Australie and Mr. T.
Carrington acted with undue haste. IF. J. Godfrey.

ROSE W. ALLEN RICHARDSON. — One of the
most useful outdoor crops I am able to produce is
the buds of Rose W. A. Richardson, the first of
which are fit for cutting in May. The plants are
trained to the outer wall of a heated pit, and they
are pruned not later than the second week iu
January. A slight divergence occurs in different
years as to the time the earliest blooms are ready,
but in favourable seasons I have cut hundreds of
buds in May ; and early in June we have the above
and other varieties always iu quantity. I am
aware that pruning Roses in the depth of winter is
supposed to be attended not only by a modicum of
risk, but almost with the certainty of losing the
Roses altogether. It is, however, a supposition
that may, in not a few instances, be safely ignored.
Old rosarians performed Rose-pruning in autumn ;
with Roses, no doubt, of a less susceptibility to the
changes of weather and climate than many of our
present-day Boses possess. But so well does the
above-named Rose respond to early pruning, when
trained to a warm wall, as also Souvenir d'un Ami,
and Souvenir de la Malmaison, each of which is a
favourite at Tynninghame, that I have no hesi-
tation in recommending others to make a trial. In
pruning, as much old wood as possible should be
removed, and strong, well-ripened shoots extended
over the wall. From these are secured not only
the greatest quantity of bloom, but also buds of
the finest form. It is also worthy of note, that a
plant of W. A. Richardson, if well thinned of
exhausted and weakly growths after the first flush

of bloom is past, will uninterruptedly bring a
succession of flower-buds until the autumn, R. P. B.

CLEMATIS VITALBA, well known in southeru
England as a denizen of the hedge-row and wood-
land, is not plentiful iu the north, but it is a plant
that should be found a place in the shrubbery. At
Belvoir there is a plant of this species, which is
20 feet in height and 30 feet in diameter, that is
much admired in the winter months for the down-
like wings of the seeds, which give it the appear-
ance of being covered with white flowers when seen
from a distance. This plant is growing over a Yew-
tree, which has been much damaged in consequence.
A better plan than this is to partially cut the
Clematis down once in two years, and to thin out
the young growths soon after. I know of no other
plant which will cover arbours, pergolas, &c. , so
quickly as this ; unfortunately, for this purpose, it
has the disadvantage of being deciduous. One can
easily understand why it is called Old Man's Beard,
but the reason for its other common name, Tra-
veller's Joy, is not so apparent. Can it be because
the thick canopy forms a good shelter for the night's
repose '! W. H. Divers, Belvoir Castle Gardens.

LEPTOSPERMUM SCOPARIUM.— A Small pliut
received by us from New Zealand early in 189G,
through the kindness of Mr. Allen, is now in full
flower outside at Belvoir, notwithstanding that 12°
of frost were experienced on Jan. 25. So far it is
quite hardy, planted in a warm corner. The leaves,
when rubbed, gives off a pleasant odour, resembling
that of Diosma fragrans, but scarcely so powerful
as in the case of that plant. The figure of L.
laevigata, in Nicholson's Dictionary of Gardening,
gives a good idea of the flowers of my plant, but
the leaves are quite different. IF. H. Divers,
Belvoir Castle Gardens.

EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS. — An interest being
evinced in the age and dimensions of species of
Eucalyptus growing in these islands, I wish to
state that I saw a very line specimen of E. Globulus
last summer in the gardens at Meadfoot Rock,
Torquay ;' and Mr. Slomau, the gardener at that
place, kindly sent me the age and height of this
tree, viz., 20 years and 50 feet respectively. Spread-
ing circumference of the trunk at the base is 34 feet.
C. L. Branson, Colcshill Park.

We have several in different sizes

growing in pots, and they are all of the same
character, but they seem to have altered very
much since planted out in shape aud colour of
foliage. During the winter months they are much
less glaucous than in summer, perhaps owing to
low temperature and heavy rains. The suggestion
that they are from seed taken from the mountains
of Tasmania is interesting. They certainly are
more hardy than one would expect ; the first winter
they were out we had some rather sharp frosts,
over 20°, and the tops were crippled for a space of
one yard, but in the spring they soon made new
leaders aud went away very rapidly. One is
planted on the grass facing south-east, the other on
a border facing south, but there is very little
difference to be seen iu their height ; the stems are
naked for a height of about 10 feet. F. Knights,
Lutterworth. [A more careful examination of the
specimen sent reveals the fact that the knotted
bodies referred to are really flower-buds and not
seed-vessels, and that the plant is really Euca-
lyptus Globulus. That it should be hardy and
produce flower-buds in the midlands is very
interesting. Ed.]

THE ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND.— The
ballot papers with names and subscriptions of the
ninteeu candidates for election on February 17,
have just been issued, aud subscribers have ample
opportunity of determining which iu their estima-
tion seem to be the most necessitous and deserving
cases. Certainly some seem to be much less so than
others, but personal bias will no doubt cause them
to be as warmly supported as will others of a more
desirable nature. But after carefully scanning the
description given of each candidate's surroundings,
I do not find one instance iu which the words
" father a subscriber to the Fund " appears. That
is so painful a fact, that existing conditions seem
almost to put a premium ou neglect to do so much ;
and I think it is high time some conditions were
infarced that should compel, ou the part of gar-
deuers, and especially those having young families,
the giving of a small annual sum to the Fund, to
entitle the children to become eligible. Charity is
good, but if it encourages carelessness, to make

Februar* 4. L899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

77

eome provision for orphans in such a case, then
getting on to the Fund is being made too easy. It
is worthy of Dote, that out of the nineteen applica-
tions, it is shown very properly in italics, that in
six cases members of the families are already
in receipt of relief from the Fund. In one
case, which I can hardly regard as decent,
with only two children in the family, both
are nominated. That is rather hot work, and
very improper. Probably it is in view of the
growing effort thus to put so many children from
one family on to the Fund that the Committee
propose at the general meeting to amend Rule 11
by inserting the words "not more than two chil-
dren of the same family can be in receipt of the
benefits of the fund at the same time." No doubt
that amendment will be adopted ; but to check this
effort to make the fund a sort of family relief in
aid, I think it would have been better to have gone
further, and have said that not more than one child
from a family of not more than three children, not
exceeding twelve years ; or, two from a family of
five children, not exceeding twelve years of age,
can be in receipt, &c. It does seem to be needful
to make the fund secure from being preyed upon
by persons who would willingly see an entire family
supported by it, whilst other more deserving cases
are left vainly crying in the wilderness of neglect
for the fund's benefits. A. D.

MOULDS ON MUSHROOMS.— In noticing P. F.
Page's inquiry in Gardeners' Chronicle, January 28,
p. 61, re fungus on Mushrooms, I would advise him,
when preparing the soil for casiug the bed, to mix
about two or three shovelfuls of fresh lime with the
soil. I have found this the only remedy for it.
C. D. Cowley.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

January 31.— The second meeting of the committees since
the commencement of the year was held on Tuesday last in
the Drill Hall, James Street, Westminster. Though the
Hall was better furnished with exhibits than was the case
three weeks previously, the display was not by any means a
large one. Orchids were not numerous, but there were some
interesting varieties and hybrids of this genus, and several
Awards of Merit and a First-class Certificate were recoin
mended by the orchid committee.

Before the Floral Committee there were large groups of
choice varieties of the Chinese Primula; also collections "f
miscellaneous plants, Ferns, and a remarkable one of Ronde-
letia cordata. Hardy spring Mowers, including the Narcissus,
have made their appearance, but they are but specimens that
have been obtained by frame or house-cultivation ; still, these
are the prelude to the season, and the enterprise of the hardy-
plant cultivators will most likely provide plenty of such
flowers at future meetings until the last of the latest
flowering Narcissus has yielded its bloom in the open
ground in May. Illustrations of the art of setting up cut-
flowers were provided by an exhibit of considerable extent
from Messrs. Miller &Co.

The Fruit Committee had little to do, their chief work being
the testing of a new Apple, which was given an Award of
Merit ; and of appraising the Medal value of a collection of
choice Apples from the Saw bridge worth Nurseries.

A lecture upon the orchards of Nova Scotia was delivered
by Mr. Hooper at ;l p.m.

The meeting of the Scientific Committee, at 4 p.m., was of
more than usual interest. Mr, A. Sutton gave some inte-
resting information regarding a series of experiments that
Messrs. Sutton & Sons have lately made in respect to the
Potato, details of which arc given below.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq., in the chair; and Messrs. O.
Thomas, H. B. May, R. Dean, W. Howe, C. Jeffries, J. Fraser
(Kew), E. T. Cook, J. Hudson, J. Jennings, T. Peed, R. B.
Lowe, C. E. Pearson, W. Bain, J. D. Pawle, R. W. Ker, J.
Walker, C. E. Shea, J. W. Barr, H. J. Jones, H. J. CutbUsh,
C. Blick, and G. Paul.

A collection of Ferns from Messrs. J. Hill & Son, Lower
Edmonton, including a number of good specimens of choice
species and varieties. Particularly noticeable were Nephro-
lepis Durri, Pteris tremula and Smithiana, Davallia pallida, a
fine lot of the dwarf Adiantum capillus-veneris imbricatum,
Gymnogramma calomelana, G. sehizophylla gloriosa, Nephro-
lepis davallioides fureans, the pretty Cheilantb.es myriophylla
elegans, &c. (Silver Flora Medal)."

Messrs. John Laino <Si Sons, Forest Hill Nurseries, London,
S.E., contributed a group of miscellaneous plants. These
were mostly stove species, and included ttnely-grown
Codiseums and Cordylines, some of the choicer species of
Palms and Begonias, Gloire de Sceaux, and B. Gloire de
Lorraine, &e.

Mr. F. Miller, 110, Fulham Road, South Kensington, made
an extensive exhibit of bouquets, and of spring-flowering and
bulbous flowers, put up in vases and various Bamboo receptacles
of miscellaneous devices. Several species of Cape Restiaceie
were used also with considerable effect. The exhibit gene-
rally was one of the best of its kind, and good taste was shown
in the arrangement of the flowers. A species of shower
bouquet was modified with the intention of representing the
outline of a butterfly, and described as the " Butterfly" Bou-
quet. One of these, composed of Lilies of the Valley and
Acacia had some merit (Silver Banksian Medal)

There was a grand show of Chinese Primulas from Messrs.
H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley. The collection occupied nne-
half of one of the long central tables, and it was a pity that
there was so poor a light in the hall, it being difficult to
appreciate the exact shades of colour of th: flowers. There
were well-flowered plants in 6-inch pots, representing the
true double-flowered sorts, as Marchioness of Exeter, while ;
Annie Hellier, light pink ; Earl Beaconsfield, deep pink ;
King of the Purples, and Princess of Wales, white. Of single-
Bowered varieties, Kentish Queen was a very large flower, of
pure white, freely flowered, and of good habit ; Victory is a
purple shade of crimson; nigrifolia oculata has exceedingly
dark, beautifully-cut foliage, and compact trusses of white,
much-crimped Dowers, with a large centre of greenish-yellow ;
White Perfection has a very prettily-formed flower of purest
white, and is of good habit; the Sirdar is a preify red in
several shades; and in Swanley Blue we have a mauve or
light purple shade of colour, approaching the desired blue ;
Cannell's White is a very good variety of its section, and
Eynsford White also. Blue Giant, Emperor Improved, Beacon,
Swanley Giant, deep pink or purple; Eynsford White, &c,
were others in this collection. Lady Emily Dyke showed
the result of crossing " White Lady" with the show varieties,
and Showed an abundance of charming flowers, of less stiffness
than the popular types. All of the plants were furnished with
an abundance of healthy foliage, ami well demonstrated the
decorative value of the Primula (Silver Flora Medal).

Mr. Robt. OWEN, the Floral Nursery, Maidenhead, bad also
a collection of plants of Primula sinensis. These plants
evidenced good cultivation, and were representatives of a good
strain (Bronze Flora Medal).

Rhododendron flowers (nobleanutn?), gathered from the open
garden, were exhibited by Mr. Gabriel, Elmstcml, Streatham
(gr, Mr. H. Guyett). This is another testimony of the preco-
city of certain plants, Induced by the absence ol severe frost.
Messrs. Barr ft Sons 12, King Street, Covent Garden,
showed Narcissus minimus, Bulbocodium vernum, Iris histrio
and I. histrioides, and Cbionodoxa Sardensis, all flowering in
pots. Also a plant in flower of Veltheimia viridiflora.

A splendid lot of Daffodil flowers, as market samples, was
contributed by Messrs. Collins Bros., Hampton, Middlesex.
and Waterloo Road, B.E. They represented the varieties
Telamonius plenus, Golden Spur, Spurius, Prineeps, and
Poeticus ornatus. One and all were very tine large flowers
for specimens, forced into flower during January (Silver
Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Jas.Veitch & Soss, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea,
had blooms of Varieties "t their hybrid greenhouse Rhodo-
dendrons. Nothing could surpass thesj in attractiveness ;
especially noticeable being Princess Alexandra, white or
pale pink ; Conqueror, red ; Cures, yellow ; Primrose, Purity,
Aphrodite, blush, &c.

Messrs, P. S\m.kr & Co., St. Albans, again staged line
specimens of their Acalypha hispida (Sanderi) in flower ;
also plants of Dracana Sanderiana, Linospadix Petrickian.i,
and other new plants introduced to notice last year.

A magnificent group of plants in pots of Rondeletia
(Rogeria) cordata was shown by Messrs. F. Cripps & Son,
Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Some of these were standards from
4 to [) feet high. The growths and foliage were most luxuriant,
and each shoot bore terminal cymes of the pretty pink flowers.
This Rubiaceous plant Was introduced from Guatemala
In 1S44.

Plants: Certificated.

Acalyplia GodseJRama. — A very ornamental species of Aca-
lypha that has been frequently described in these pages, and
of which a figure was given in the Gardeners* Chronicle,
April 23, 1898, p. L'42 (Messrs. F. Sander &, Co., St. AU-ans).

Lapageria rowa >;tr. " Th>: Knoll. "--A large and free-flower-
ing variety of this well-known greenhouse trailing plant.
(SirT. Lawrence, Burford).

Orchid Committee.

Present: Harry J. Veitch, Esq . in the chair; and Messrs.
Jas. O'Brien (hon. sec), Sydney Courtauld, F. Mason, De B.
Crawshay, J. Douglas, E. Ashworth, T. W. Bond, C Winn,
E. Hill, F. J. Thome. W. H. Young, H. J. Chapman, .1.
Gabrielt J. JaqUes, H. Little, H. Ballantine, and H. M. Pollett.

Cattleya Trianai was the principal of the showy kinds
exhibited, and of these Elijah Ashworth, Esq., Harefield
Hall, Wilmslow (gr., Mr. Holbrook), staged two remarkable
forms, the finest of which was C. T. Ernest Ashworth and
C. T. albida var. E. Ashworth. a very large white flower, with
slight blush tint on the front of the lip.

F. Knight, Esq., Thundersley House, Thundersley, Essex
(gr., Mr. E. Marston), was awarded a Silver Banksian Medal
for a pretty group of excellently well-grown and flowered
varieties of Cattleya Triauud, ranging from the light forms
to some with intensely richly-coloured crimson fronts to the
lip, the whole serving to demonstrate what a splendid winter
flower C. Trianai is when properly developed.

Philip Crowley, Esq., Waddon House, Croydon (gr., Mr,
J. Harris), showed Cattleya Triamei Waddon House variety,
of a delicate shade of peach blossom.

Messrs. Linden, l'Horticulture Internationale, Pare Leopold,
Brussels, also showed a very handsome blotched form of
Odontoglossum crispum, O. Andersonianum Schusterianum,
of a bright yellow, with peculiar reddish markings; Cypripe-
diuni insigne Luciani of the C. i. Sandera? class, but of a'darker
yellow ; and a singular hybrid, said to l,e between Zygopeta-
lum crinitum and Batemannia Colleyi, and provisionally
named Zygo-Batemannia x Mastersil. It approached nearest
to the section of Zygopetalum represented by Z. Murrav.-muni
(Bot. Mag., t. 3674). Sepals and petals greenish, with pur-
plish markings ; lip white, with purple-tinted callus.

De B. Crawshay, Esq., Rosetield, Sevenoaks (gr., Mr. S.
Cooke), showed Odontoglossum crispum Imperatrlx, a large,
perfectly-shaped white form, with red-brown blotch on the

lip, ami a smaller blotch on some of the lower sepals.

■I. tii'KNKv Fowler, Esq., .Glebelands, South Woodford
(gr., Mr. J. Davis), showed C. x Chamberlaino-Leeanum, and
a collection of cut-flowers of varieties of Ladia anceps, and a
g ICypripedium x Chapmani.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam (gr., Mr. Win.
Murray), showed a flower of his remarkable Calanthe x Oak-
wo id Ruby, the cold in the north preventing the plant from
being Bent It is a remarkable instance of what perseverance
and selection may do ; for in this ease, the C vestita rubro-
oculata begun with years ago, has- been changed in a
remarkable manner, from a white flower with a dark
blood-red spot in the centre, to a flower wholly
of a rich blood - red colour, with a small white
eye— the original state reversed. Its pedigree is, hist,
C. vestita rubro-oculata x rosea, which resulted in C X
Veitchi, Oakwood var., this crossed again with C. vestita
rubro-oculata, brought. C. x Alexandri, which was again
crossed with rubro-oculata, and the progeny seeded fromf-r
several years, the darkest being selected for seeding each time
with the remarkable result named.

Mr. Jas. Dodqlas, Edenside, Great Bookham. was awarded
a Silver Banksian Medal for an effective group of cut Orchids,
among which were fine forms of Ladia anceps, hybrid Calan-
tlies, Cypripedium Boxalli, Codogyne cristata, his pretty pale
yellow Ladia x Brysa, &c.

H. F. Symonds, Esq, Woodthorpe, Beckenham (gr., Mr,
Geo. E. Day), showed a pretty group, made up of very fine
specimens of Dendrobium Jamesianum, Lycaste Skinneri
alba, Odontoglossum crispum, O. Andersonianum, O. mulus,
Cudogyne cristata, and some Cypripediums, among which
was C. x Almos, apparently a good form of C. x Sallieri
(Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, showed Phalamopsis
x Wiganhe, said to be between P. Schilleriana and P.
Slnartiatia. The sepals and petals were white, with a bright
rose-pink glofl in the centre, the lower halves ot the lateral
Bepals being spotted with dark rose colour; lip white, with a
yellow callus and many crimson spots. Messrs. Low also
showed Cypripedium insigne Sander.. .

II. s. Leon, Esq., Bletchley Park, Bletchley (gr., Mr.
Uislop), showed Cattleya x Hislopi (Lawrenceannm x Ludde-
inanniana Erusti). The flower, which was of an uniform tint
ol rose colour, darkest on the lip, showed traces of C. Ludde-
manniaua in the lip, and when strong will doubtless develop
more marked characteristics.

Mr. W. Driver, gr., Longford House, Minchinhampton,
sent Cypripeilium villosum.

Award*,

Laslia anceps Amssiana, CravJshay'a iv<Wrfj/.— This variety
has previously been given an Award of Merit, and upon the
Howers obtaining full colour, a First class Certificate wa*
awarded. Its distinguishing characteristics are the depth,
brightness, and richness of its colour, which far surpasses
the original. It was figured in our columns January 22, 1S98,
fig. 22, p. 59. From De Barry Crawshay, Esq.

Cyprvpedium Hiss /.<<,<;«,(. Fowler (Chamberlainianum x
insigne on-.).— A very pretty hybrid, of which the suggested
cross with a form of C. insigne, is doubtless correct. The
upper sepal was pale green, with lines of heavy purple
blotches, those nearest the edge being smallest. Lower sepal
green, with a few purple dotted lines, petals curved forward,
and suggesting C. Chamberlainianum in form ; the edge
wavy and ciliate, tinged and veined with purple; lip bright
light rose ; staminode cushion-like, and yellow. From J
Gurney Fowler, Esq. (Award of Merit).

Masd watlia Cnrlei (M. m icrura and tovarensis).—A very
remarkable hybrid, with the long wax-like flowers of M,
macrura, nnd whitcdike M. tovarensis. From Sir T. Law-
hence, Bart. (Award of Merit).

Epidendrum wnibellatum,.—-A species with fleshy-green
leaves and flowers in few-flowered umbels succeeiiing each
other, and of a pale green colour. From Messrs. Stanley-
Mobbs & Ashtos, Southgate (Botanical Certificate).

Cypripedium x Wiertzia>iu>n (Kothsctiildianum x Tjx\
ctnum). — A showy hybrid, with white upper sepal bearing a
number of purplish-chocolate lines ; the petals are white,
with purple spots, and a faint rose tinge ; the lip a dark
purplish-rose. From Messrs. Linden-, Pare Leopold,
Brussels (Award of Merit).

Cattleya Trianai var. E. Ashicorth. — A noble flower, with
pure white sepals and petals, the Latter being over 3 inches
wide. The base of the lip was blush-white, the disc bright
yellow, and the front lobe an intense purplish-crimson colour,
with narrow white margin. From E. Ashworth, Esq.
(Award of Merit).

Cattleya Triaiuei vat. Mem )Ha tindeni.—A grand form,
resembling their 0. T. frnperator, and having a similarly

78

THE GAB DE NEBS' CHBONIGLE.

| February 4, lHfiS.

coloured ficli claret-crimson lip. Prom Messrs. Linden,
Pan-- Leopolc, Brussels (Award or Merit).

Fruit Committee.

Present: riiillp Crowley, Esq., chairman; and Messrs
A. F. Barron, W. Poupart, W. Wilks, Alex. Dean, J. W.Bates,
F. Q. Lane. O. Reynolds, and J. Willard.

Messrs. T. Rivers & Son, Sawbridgewoi tli, had a table
bt magnificent fruits. These were chiefly Apples, and the
following varieties were noticed : — Gloria Mundi, Bucking-
ham, Gascoigne's Scarlet, King of Tomkins Co., Belle de
Pontoise, Nancy Jackson, Melon, Wagoner, Keinctte du
Canada, Reinette Done de Hensgen, Lord Derby, Bijou,
Bailey's Sweet, Wadhurst Pippin, Levis' Ineoniparable, and
Emperor Alexander. The quality of these fruits was remark-
aide, and some of the varieties are less common than they
might be. Some fruits and sprays of foliage of varieties of
St. Michael's Orange were very attractive (Silver Knightian
Medal).

W. Roi-fell, Esq., Roupell Park, S.W., showed a few-
samples of Newton Wonder, Smart's Prince Albert, and Annie
Elizabeth Apples from his suburban garden, within the five
miles radius. The fruits were in a good state of preservation.

Awards.
An Award of Merit was recommended to a new seedling
Apple, named Lady Pilkington, from the Southport and
Ohurchtown Botanic Gardens. In appearance it is excecd-
inglj like to Dumelow's Seedling, but the flesh is softer and
more agreeable to eat. The eye is less open also.

Scientific Committee.

EXPERIMENTS ON CROSS-BREEDING POTATOS, ETC.
Ax the meeting of the Scientific Committee on Tuesday
last, Mr. A. W. Sutton exhibited the results of his experi-
ments, which were of a very interesting character. They had
i eference to the grafting of a scion from the Tomato on to the
haulm of a Potato stock ; a similar engrafting of Solanum
nigrum and of Solanum escu'.entum. The Potato in each
case «as grown in a pot, the haulm cut back and worked
with the Tomato or the Solanum. Further experiments were
made in fertilising the flowers of a Potato borne on a
Potato-scion engrafted on a Tomato-stock, and reciprocally.
Tubers of uncrossed and of crossed Solanum Maglia were
also shown, together with tubers of Solanum etnberosum
and other varieties. The following details refer to the
specimens exhibited :—

Potato Grafts.
.No. 1.— Typical sample of the old Paterson's Victoria
Potato.

Potato Victoria grafted with a scion of Tomato.
No. '.'.—In 1890, a plant of Victoria Potato was grafted with
a scion from the Tomato (variety Maincrop), and all the Potato
stems other than the one grafted with Tomato were carefully re-
moved. The graft was made about 3 Inches above the soil.
Tile tubers produced by this plant in 1895, '90, and '97 were
certainly small, and in striking contrast to the typical
Victoria. The tubers now sent marked No. 2 are a fair sample
of those grown last season, for comparison with type No. 1.
[Very small).

Potato Victoria grafted with scion of Solatium nigrum.
No. 3.— In the same year (1895) another plant of Potato
Victoria was grafted in the same manner, but the graft in this
case was Solanum nigrum. The tubers marked No. 3 of crop
I sos do not differ from the type No. 1 (ordinary Paterson's
Victoria).

Potato Supreme grafted with a scion of the Egg-plant

(Solanum esculentum).

No. 4.— In 1895, a typical sample of Potato Supreme was

grafted with a scion from the Egg-plant. In this case also

the character of the Potato has been unaffected by the graft.

No. 4a. -Are tubers grown in 1898 from the grafted plant.

Esperimentt hi Cross-fertilising Potato-flowers borne upon tlie
Tomato-plant grafted with Potato.

No. 5.— A typical sample of the old Potato Woodstock
Kidney.

No. 6a.— In lso'i a stock of Tomato, Earliest-of-All, was
grafted with a scum of Potato Woodstock Kidney. The
Potato flowers produced on the scion were fertilised with
pollen from the Tomato Earliest-of-All, and seed saved in the
summer 1805. The seed sown in March. 1390, produced tubers
mostly small and diseaser}. In 1897 the crop again was very
small and diseased. In 1898 the crop was a good one, the
tubers being almost or quite round, not unlike a handsome
Tomato, but tins contrast to the shape of Woodstock Kidney
is not greater than is constantly Been in seedling Potatos,
where no cross-fertilisation has taken place. There is no
apparent difference between the foliage of 5a and that of many
other Potatos.

No. 5a was the only seedling considered worth keeping in
Hie autumn of 1896. All the other seedlings were discarded
as very unpromising.

Xo. 5b.— Tomato, Earliest-of-All, was grafted with a scion
of Potato Woodstock Kidney, in 1895. The Potato flowers in
this case were fertilised with their own pollen. The seed was
sown ill 1896, and the tubers were very similar in type to
Woodstock Kidney. In 1S9S the trial report on the seedling
was "a medium crop of tubers resembling Woodstock Kidney.''
In this case also only one seedling was kept in the autumn of
I son.

From a c unparison of 6a and or, it would certainly appear
that the Tomato pollen had affected the seedling resulting
from the erjss,-

Solanum Maaliu Hybrids.

No-. n.— Typical tubers of Solanum Maglia grown from the
Kew stock.

No. 6a. - In 1SS7, some hundreds of Sowers of Solanum
Maglia were fertilised with pollen from cultivated Potatos,
but the only cross effected was with pollen taken from an un-
named Potato seedling, and this cross resulted in two seed-
liugs, but one of these was so weak that, notwithstanding
every care, it was lost. The other produced tubers the first
year corresponding to sample 6a, and as the result of careful
cultivation it has increased in size during recent years, as
shown by sample Ob. The general constitution of the seed-
ling is weak, and as a variety of Potato, it will not for a
moment compare with the ordinary Potatos of commerce.

Solatium etiiberosum.

No. ".—Solanum etnberosum received in 18S7 from Mr.
Lindsay, of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh, which
have been grown each successive year. The tubers when re-
ceived wcie very small, about the size of No. 7, but flatter, and
have increased in size during the intervening years, until they
have now reached the size of marketable Potatos, as repre-
sented by the sample 7a.

Citruiti* Varieties of Potatos or distinct Species.

No. 8.— In 18S8, Mr. Sutton received from a correspondent a
distinct variety of Potato from Africa, the shape being some-
what similar to the Fir-apple Potato, but mottled in colour. The
foliage is exceedingly dark in colour, and distinct from any
other with which I am acquainted. The steins are erect and
very bushy, and the leaves are so round as to appear at first
sight entirely unlike those of the Potato, and rather resemble
those of the Urtica clioica, the common Stinging-nettle. At
a distance one would hardly think the foliage could be that
of a Potato.

No. Sa.— The tubers, as received, were about the size of
sample No. 3, but as a result of good cultivation they hive
now reached the size represented by sample Sa.

No. 9.— Specimens of the large white Fir-apple Potato.

No. 10.— Specimens or the small wdiite Fir-apple Potato.

No. 11.— Specimens of the red Fir-apple Potito. These
three Potatos produce flowers, but no berries. The foliage
generally speaking, corresponds with that of other Potatos,
and is quite unlike No. 8.

JUsultsbf sowing Tomxtoseed saved from Potato-plant Grafted
witli Tomato.

1895. — in this year a scion of Potato Victoria was grafted
with Tomato Maincrop. Seed was saved in the autumn of

lso;,.

18%.— See! sown, sevorol plants raised, ami seed agiin
saved.

1897.— Seed from last yeir s trials sown in t'ae spring, and
ten or twelve plants pot out in the open in June. It was
evident on comparing these plants with several trials of the
true Maincrop Tomato growing akngside that the graft had
materially affected the variety, which happens to have very
distinctive characteristics, the leave i of Maincrop being
exceptionally large, massive, and almost entire in outline,
generally at least three times the size of those of the ordinary
Tomato; the plants of the seedling appeared quite distinct
from the true Maincrop ; there were many more fruits on each
plant, and these fruits were decidedly smaller and earlier, and
more corrugated. The leaves, however, were similar in
character, but decidedly smaller. Seed was again saved from
these plants.

189S. -Send sown again, and the same number of plants put
out in June. The 1897 notes were entirely confirmed, but the
contrast between these plants and those of the true Maincrop
Tomato growing alongside was perhaps more marked than in
the preceding year.

Lecture.

A YEAR AMONG THE ORCHARDS OF NOVA SCOTIA,
given by Cecil H. Hoofer, M.R.A.C, F.S.I.
(in Tuesday afternoon, January 31, at the Royal Horticul-
tural Society's meeting, Mr. Hoofer began by describing
the geography, limate, and soil of the Annapolis valley, the
renowned fruit-be' t of Nova Scotia. The extent of the valley
is about one hundred miles, its width about ten, most of
which is adapted to Apple-raising. In the centre of the
valley is a peaty soil over sand, where an important Cran-
berry industry is beginning. There are about 200 acres at
present devoted to Cranberry bog, which give excellent
monetary returns. Mr. Hooper is of opinion, than Cranberries
would make a remunerative crop on some of the English and
Scotch moor and heath land, as it is apparently on similar
land that the Cranberry thrives so well in Nova Scotia. He
said that tic two chief manures used in the orchards were
bone-meal, about 5 cwt. per acre, muriate of potasli 20 cwt.

He went fully in the method and details of spraying com-
binedly for fungi and caterpillars with copper-sulphate, lime,
and Paris-green ; he exhibited a spraying-pump, such as is
commonly used in Nova Scotia, capable of delivering a fine
spray at 20 or 30 feet from the ground. Grease banding is
practised to a small extent in Nova Scotia, but it is generally
considered that if spraying is thoroughly done at the right
periods, the bands are not necessary, their greatest use being
on tall trees, difficult to spray thoroughly. The Nova Scotia
orchards are ploughed, and during the summer are either
cropped with vegetation requiring frequent cultivation, as
Potatos, Maize, (mil Beans; or, if uncropped, they are fre-
quently harrowed, to maintain a fine tilth 3 inches deep.

A full description of the sorting and barrelling of the Apples
was given. His opinion of the fruit and orchards was, that
the fruit was generally large, well-coloured, and abundant ;
but with the exception of the G ravens tein Apple, he con-
sidered the flavour uot quite so good as the bent English

Apples. The trees appear to grow rather larger than in Eng-
land ; ami he gave an example of a Nonpareil Apple-tree at
Cornwallis Rectory having a circumference of 10 feet at 1 foot
from the ground, which, during the last twenty years, has
yielded from 2 to 10 barrels, and averaged 9 barrels of 120 lb.
each. The orchards generally he considered better cultivated
and cared for than those of England, and the produce was
certainly better in size and colour than the fruit of England
generally ; but the best English orchards and finest English
frnit equals anything he saw in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Hooper dealt at some length with the work of the Nova
Scotia Fruit-Growers' Association, and its School of Horticul-
ture at Wolfeville, as a good example of farmers combining for
tlie welfare of their industry ; also witli the work of the
Office of Agriculture of Nova Scotia, witli its model farm and
dairy school at Truro, and the Provincial Experimental
Station at Nappan for the trials of different varieties of com,
vegetables, and fruits, under the Department of Agriculture
of the Dominion. Tlie School of Horticulture is attached to
the Wolfeville University, and is managed jointly by the
Fruit-Growers' Association and the Nova Scotia Office of
Agriculture ; its course is from the beginning of November to
the end of April. The classes are free, and they consist of
classes for botany, microscopical botany, and horticulture ; in
tlie latter, the propagation of plants and fruit growing are
chiefly dealt with. The school consists of a class-room, with a
good library of English, Canadian, and American books and
horticultural journals, and microscopes. There is a potting-
shed and workshop, a root-cellar for Apple-stocks to be root-
grafted during the winter; a glass-house with ornamental
plants, flowers, and fruit-trees for grafting and budding, and
a propagating-bed. The school is surrounded by orna-
mental grounds, an I has a fruit-tree nursery attached.
Farmers are invited to look round at any time, to attend any
class or lecture that may be going on, and to bring specimens
for identification, or to ask questions.

THE ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORI
CTJLTURAL.

(C 'mli vtted fnvi j>. 04.)

Jantarv 24. — Perhap; the mist Important incident in the
report was the presentation of a Forestry bursary of £30 by
Mr. Monro Fbrgusoh, M.P., and permission to the forestry
students to make visits to study in the woods of Martly,
thus taking the initiative in establishing a s jhbbl of forestry,
and for which a Government grant is expected. The Treasurer's
report, which showed a balance in hand of £124 Os. 'J.I.. was
approved.

Colonel Bailey referred to the general leports tiiat timber-
growing did not ply in this country. II : assured his hearers
that there was, however, little or nothing the matter with
o.ir soil or our climate telling against the growth of timber-
trees; we had as much sunshine as North Germany or the
shores of the Baltic. He also wanted to know where we
could find worse soil in this country than the French forest
country, or the shores of the Bay of Biscay, consisting of
from 91 to 95 per cent, of silici. Of course, we may place
forests too high for the production of good timber ; but on tlie
11 inks of hills, and on the sides of valleys and streams,
timber-trees grow well. The fact was, that profit on timber
was not tlie chief object of the owners of woodland, but
rather it was shelter from the wind, tlie rearing of game-birds,
and obtaining picturesque effects, and each of these militated
against profitable forestry.

For more than thirty years this Society had been urging the
application of sylvicultural methods to the growth of timber,
and a school or schools for the training of young foresters was
one of the great needs of the day. In 1882, the Council of tin-
Society recommended the establishment of a forestry school.
In 1889, the present Forestry Lectureship was founded in the
E liuburgli University. In 1891, efforts were made to raise the
Lectureship to the dignity of a Professorship, but this had not
yet been done. During the current year the Society addressed
a memorial to the Minister of Agriculture, urging him to
secure a small State forest, which should serve the follow-
ing ends: firstly, to show what could be done by sylvicultural
methods, and their monetary results ; secondly, to present the
landlords and foresters a successful object-lesson, showing
them how the best results were to be obtained ; thirdly, to
provide an efficient training-ground for forestry students;
and fourthly, to provide a Stute forest in which researches
could be carried out, and for the compilation of accurate
forestiy data for the country at large. Unfortunately, the
Minister's reply was a polite refusal. This was specially
unfortunate, as, perhaps, there is no art which needs
practical demonstrations more urgently than scientific
forestry ; and this was one of the chief objects in
establishing a State Forest School near Edinburgh. As
yet we had not felt a pressing need for timber grown at
home, good foreign wood being cheap and plentiful. But the
consumption of wood was increasing, and in some directions
the demand greatly exceeded the available supply. Mr.
Mungo Ferguson had kindly allowed them, for educational
purposes, the run of the woods of Martly, some 800 acres,
which, with the woods at Novar, would be worked on a sys-
tematic plan, and would go far to enable then: to answer the
question, wdiether the cultivation of timber trees is a paying
business. The Colonel concluded by proposing the Earl of
Mansfield as his sueecessor.

TheEARLOFMANSFiEi.ri, who accepted the chair, thanked
the Soeiety for their kindness in electing him, and said he had
partly accepted office to oblige his old friend Mr. Monro Fer-
guson ; but apart from that, lie fell honoured in being

February 4, 1899.1

THE GAB DEFERS' CHRONICLE.

79

appointed to the office, and would do what he could to be a
satisfactory president of the Society.

Office Bearers -Colonel Bailey, Mr. Malcolm Dunn, and Mr.
Methven, were elected vice-presidents. Messrs. C. Buchan,
Penicuick ; William Gilchrist, Leuchars ; Wm. Makinon, nur-
seryman ; John T. McLaren, Polmaise, Stirling; and John
Methven, nurseryman, Edinburgh, were proposed for the
Council. Mr. Waldegrave Leslie thought there were too many
Edinburgh nurserymen on the Council. On being put to the
vote, 22 voted for Mr. Boyd, and 19 for Mr. McLaren Mr.
Monro Ferguson was re-elected honorary secretary, and Mr.
Robert Galloway treasurer and secretary, both being thanked
for past services.

The excursions undertaken next autumn are to be made
to Ross-shire and Sutherland, the Novar, Skits, and Loyal
estates; and to Prance next year during the great exhibition
in Parts, the time devoted to it being probably a fortnight.

An interesting letter was read from SirJami s Gibson Craig,
Bart., of Riccariton, giving particulars of a venerable Scottish
Kir which was blown down recently, and thought to be 270
years old.

At the conclusion of the ordinary business, Colonel Bailey
gave an instructive and interesting accounl of a recent visit he
had made to Canada, illustrating it with maps and lime-
light views. Be explained that Britain imported annually
£18,000,000 worth ot timber, having added some £2,000,000
within the last eight years, of which £8,500,000 came from
Canada, £4,000,000 from Sweden, £4,000,000 from Russia, and
£3,500,000 from the United States. One third ofihc.se imports
came across the Atlantic. The United States also imported
from Canada twice as much wood as they exported to tliis
country. \ n official of the Canadian Government reporte I in
1895 that the country contained 250,000 square miles ol forests,
a large portion, lioweve had not got timber ever likely to
be exported. Timber sup] lies were also being constantly
reduced by settlers burning the r clearings, the needs of the
new railway lines, &c. For all that, Canada had still great
resources in timber, which, if wisely muiui^ il, and the cutting
effectively controlled, will ensure plentj ol w l lor them-
selves and for us for a long time to come.

The annual dinner book place at the North Brftis'.i Ilutel iu
the evening, the Earl of Mansfield taking the chair.

ARKETS.

ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL
IMPROVEMENT.

The members ol the Me of Wight Horticultural Improve.
inent Association recently visited Southampton to Inspecl the
warehouses of the Messrs. Toogood & Sons, Royal Seedsmen ;
and the manure works of Messrs Spooner & Bailey.

Thej were mel al the pier by the Messrs. Toogood, and
driven to the Arm's Chapel seed-packing warehouse, which
lias a flooi ana of 388,800 square feei . Much Interest was fell
by the visitors in watching the actual work ol sei d-< leaning
and pocketing. The shop and offices were next visited, and
the inembn rs of the tYssoi iati n were then enteitained to
luncheon by tie1 Messrs. To (good.

The \ isit i" the manure works of Messrs. Si nei & Bailey

was interesting. The manufacture of sulphuric acid was
full; shown and explained, also of various othei manures, and
the mixing ol special manures.

THE PEOPLE'S PALACE HORTI
CULTURAL.

January 26.— The members or this Society dined togethei
at the Three Nuns Restaurant, Aldgate, on the above date,
under the presidency of E. Flower, Esq , M P., one of the
11 ni. Secretaries, and also one of the founders ol the
Sociel j .

The Society, winch is doing much good work In the dis-
trict, in encouraging a taste for window and oilier forme of
gardening, was founded inl887. It adds yearly tothenuinber
of its subscribers, and has held several shows annually, and
last year to the number of four, considerable sums in prizes
being awarded. The President, in the course of his remarks,
dwelt on the fact that it was to a large extent a self-supporting
and self-governing Society. The membership was nov 510
strong.

In proposing the health of the acting Secretary, Mr. C. E.
Osborn, the Chairman bore testimony to the value ol his
work ; the success achieved had largely resulted from Mr.
Osborn's warm interest in the work.

©bituan>.

MR. JOHN Nicholl.— Many readers of the
Gardeners* CkronicU will regret to learn the death
of Mr. John Nieholl, nurseryman, of Redruth, which
took place January 25, 1S99. He was for many years
the owner of the Redruth nursery, and had a wide
experience as a laudscape gardener. Many hundreds
of acres of plantations now adorning the hills aud
dales of Cornwall were planted by him, or under
his directions. Well informed on many matters,
aud always courteous, a chat with him was very
entertaining. The deceased was eighty-four years
of age. He will he greatly missed by a wide circle
of friends. J. -1/.

COVENT GARDEN, FEBRUARY 2.

We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.]

Fruit.—
Apples, per bushel

— Heelings, bushel

— i irei nings, pei

bushel

— Welling! on s,

bushel

Sourings, per
bushel

— French, Uei-

nette (Iris,

cases

Dieu Donne,

cases

Crabs, bush.

large cookers,

eases...

— Nova SCOtifl

Ha Id W ins,
Greenings,
Gold Russets,
& other Borts
per barrel ...

— Ca I i I orn i a n

New T<.\\ QS,

Fancy Reds,

&c, per case
Bananas, per bunch
Chestnuts, vai ioui ,

per hag

C il K per 1001b. ;

<V.n ■ , Allien-

1 iii. box ... 1

Gripes, Kn jlish,

Alicante, lb. ..

Vkqetables A veracib Wholesale Prices.

AVERAGH

Wholesale Pkices.

s. ((. s. d.

«

(1. s. d.

3 0-40

Grapes, Gros Col-

(0 .6

inar

l

8- 1 0

Muscats, per lb.

:<

0 i. ii

4 0-5 6

— Almeria, p. doz.

11.

fi

n :' 0

Il

— Belgian, IK ...

ii

i,-n 10

Lemons, per case...

7

6-14 «i

:; .. -, i;

Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 11

1

6 —

Oranges, JaRa,c ises

;i

ii 11 ii

7 il- ; 6

— Denia, case ol

420

7

0-12 0

11 oil 0

— Mandarin, pkt.

i ii j ii

of 10 boxes...

5

0 —

— Valencfa

(i

6-12 0

7 0 —

— Seville Bitter,

per case

.',

C .1 ii

— Tahgierine, box

..I 25

n n " 1 i

— — box of 420

In (l _

I', aches, Cape

s

M n ii

1.. 0 i i

Pears, Californian,
Raster Bcurre,

i ase, 108

IS

o —

Gloul Horccau,

7 0-10 1)

pcrcasc

IS

ii

7 0 HI 1)

inn case . .

10 0 .

Plums, i lape

10

ii 11 0

4 0-12 0

Pines, St Michael's,

3n 0-40 0

each

a

6- s n

Si law berries, p. lb.

!•>

ii 18 0

12 0 —

Walnuts, kiln-dried,

Naples, ewt, ...

Sfl

0 —

1 ii- 1 Ii

peck

4

u —

s. a. >. d

Artichokes, Globe,

per dofc. .. •_' i. ;; 0

Jerusalem, per

sieve ..13-16

Asparagus, Paris,

-■ '1 5 0- 6 0

Giant, bundle.. 15 0-18 o

— Spanish, bund. 2 0
Sprue 0 6 0 9

- English, per 100 5 0-70

Beans, Dwfs.,<

net Islands, lb. 2 0-26

I- n neb. pei lb. 0 i H 0

frfadeira, bkt 3 G —

i . ioi s, pei

dozen o 6- u 9

— bushel .. ... 2 0 —
Broccoli Sprouts,

per bushel ... 2 0 J 0

Brussels Sprouts,

per sieve ] e, ■_' .,

— per bushel ... 2 0- 3 0

Hi USSels tops. bush. ] 6 —

Cabbagc.G leworts,

per bushel ... 2 0- 2 6

— Savoys, p. doz. 1 ;.; - 2 0

— - - per tally ... o' 0-10 0
Cardoons, each ... l 0- l 3
Cauliflowers, p. rtoz. l 0- l 2

per tally ... ii 0 - 0

— Italian, baskets

of 18 3 3-30

Celeriac, per dozen 2 0-23
Carrots, washed, iu

bags 3 0 —

— unwashed ... 2 0 2 6

— Surrey, bunchs. 2 0- 2 6

— French Mats ... 13-16
Celery, Red, dozen

bundles 8 0-12 o

unwashed ... 6 0 —

Chicory, per lb. ... 0 3 —

i 'how i 'how , orCha-
hota, case about

301b 4 0

Cress, doz. punnets 16 —
Cucumbers, per doz. 5 0-10 0
Endive, French, pei-
dozen 1 '-- 2 0

— Batavian, doz". 19 2 4
Garlic, per lb. ... 0 3 —
Horseradish, New

English, bundle 2 0-26

— — loose per

doz., fine ... 2 0 —

[Ioi >< radish,

5. d. s. d.

1 II-

1

3

2 ii

ii Ii

1

ii

G n

In

il

ii

ii

'i

.. M

G

6

:. n

.

Ii

0 ii-

..

II

0 ii

>.i

6

3 0

1 0-

1

0

1 0

ll 6-

Ii

9

3 i

3

il

0

II

for-
eign, u. bundle
Leeks, doz, bum li
Lettuce. Cabbage,

pel i In,:.

Mint, new, forced,

pei '!"/. i sli.

Mushrooms, liuu&e,

per lb.
1 Uiions, Albanians,

bags ...

— Hutch, per b ■-■

— English, cm t
Valencia, case*
picklers, sieve

Parsley, per dozen

— sieve

Parsnips, per dozen

— ewt. bags
Peas, French, pkts.,

about i lb.
Potatoa, Hebrons,
Snowdrops, Up-
to-Date,sc.,per
ton ... CO 0-SO 0

— N'cw Algerian

Kidneys, per

lb. ... o 2J -

— — Frame, n>.

— — Teneritfe,
per ewt.

Radishes, Round,

breakfast, per

dozen bunches
Rhubarb, York, per

doz. bundles ...

Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen

Scotch Kale, bushel

Seakale, per dozen
punnets

Shallots, per ewt..

Spinach, French,
crates ..

To mat os, ne w
English, per lb.

— Canary, boxes..
Turnips, Eng., per

doz. bunclies ...

— in bags

Turnip-Tops, bag...
Watercress, p. doz.

bunches
Yams from Canaries,

0 4- 0 6

]_■ 0 IS 0

1 3 l 0

1 3- i <;

13 -

2 -'■ 3 0

10 0-14 0
; 0- P 0

3 0-36

1 0 —

2 0- 4 0

2 0 —
2 0-26
2 0-26

0 6-0 10
7 0 —

case
Potatos.

Beauties, Saxons, Giants, Up-to Date, &c, according to
sample, 60a. to 80s. per ton ; Dunbar Main Crops, 90s. John
Bath, 32 and 34, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,

Remarks.— On Saturday, January 28, some fine stout,
capitally-grown Seakale was on sale in the Market, and
realised 14s. per dozen punnets. The Cape Peaches were
stated to be good in quality, and other importations are
expecti d to arrive. Shallots are a very slow trade. Tomatoa
from the Canaries arc now coming in line condition. The
Potato trade is slow.

Anemones, dozen

hunches

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms

Asparagus "Fern,"

bunch

Azalea, white, 12

bunches

Bouvardias, per bun.
Carnations, per doz,

blooms

Eucharis, per dozen
Gardenias, per doz.
Hyacinths, Roman,

per doz. bunches

Lilium longiflorum,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

dozen bunches ...
Marguerites, 12 bun.
Maidenhair Fern.

per doz. bunches

Cur Flowers.— Average Wholesale Prices,
s. d. s. d.

Narcissus, White, p.

10-16 dozen bunches ...

Orchids, per dozen

3 0-40 blooms

Pelargoniums, doz.

2 0- 3 0 ! bunches

1 — scarlet, per doz.

4 0- 6 0 bunclies

0 4- 0 ti Pink Roses, per
dozen

1 6- 3 0 Roses (indoor), doz.

2 (e4 0 — Tea, white, doz.
2 0-30 — Perle, per doz.

— Safrano, p. doz.

5 0-6 0 Smilax, per bunch
| Tuberoses, 12 blms.

6 0- 9 0 Tulips, per dozen...
Violets, per dozen

0 0 10 'i bunches

4 0-50 — Parma, bunch

s.

if.

s.d.

1

6-

2 0

6 0-

12 0

4

0-

6 0

8 0-10 0

4

0-

6 0

1

fi-

2 0

■>

0-

3 0

1

0-2 0

1

6-

2 il

<>

0-

3 0

0

S-

1 0

0

0-

1 :i

1

0-

2 0

-I

0-

2 6

0 0- 9 0

Pi vnts in Poia.— Average Wholesale Price!)

s. d. s. (1.

s. d. s d.

Arbor \ itie, p. doz.

V2 0-30 0

Ferns, small, per

Aspidistras, p. doz.

18 0-36 0

100

4 0-60

specimen, each

5 0-10 0

Ficns elastica, each

1 0- ii 0

Dracaenas, various,

Foliage plants, var.,

per doz

12 0-30 0

each

1 0- 5 0

- - viridis, p. doz.

9 0-18 0

Lycopodiums, doz.

3 0-40

Buonymus, various,

Marguerite Daisy,

per dozen

6 0-18 0

per dozen

6 0-80

Evergreens, in var..

Myrtles, per doz....

6 0- 9 0

per dozen

6 0 -21 0

Palms, various, ea.

1 0-1 5 0

I ei ns, in variety,

— specimens, ea.

21 0-03 n

per dozen

4 0 12 II

Scarlets, per doz.

4 0- 0 0

SEEDS.

I.omkim February I.- Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, s i

Merchants, of Great Maze Pond, Borough, London, 8.E.,

wide that there is now ag | inquiry for bold, clean samples

ot new English Cow-grass; medium and lower qualities,
however, meet with less attention. There is no change thid
week nt American red Clover seed; and as regards Alsyke,

White, and Trefoil, values keep Stead}*. Perennial and

Italian Rye-grasses point upwards. An improved business
as ,i result of the recent cold snap must be noted in Bine
Peas, Haneot Beans, and Spanish Lentils. Bird seed-, in the
ah no of transactions, call for no remark. Full prices are
asked for both Mustard and Rape seed. New Scailel
Runners, being cheap and good, meel with favour ; but more
money is asked for Canadian Wonder Beans,

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

(ii iscovs : Fi tary i The following are the averages
of the prices recorded since our last report : — Apples, per
barrel, Canadian, Baldwins. 23s. to *2''»\ ; Greenings, 20s. to
21*. ; various, IS*, to 21s. ; Americans— Californian, Newtown
Pippins, lis. per case; Lemons, Messina, 6s. to 8s. do. ; do.,
Palermo, 7s. to 9s. do. ; Grapes, home, Is. 3d. to Is. 9d. per
lb. ; Oranges, bitter, Seville Bdter, lis. per box; Oranges,
Jaffa, Ts. Go", to 85. per case ; do., Valencia, ordinary, 420's,
5s. to Qs, do. ; do., line selected, 6s. 6d to 7s. do. ; do., Urge,
5s, to Sj. do.; do,, extra large, 9s. to 12s. do.; do., large,
714's, 6s. Od. to 7s. 'id. do. ; Onions, Valencias, 4's, 10». to
10s. M. per ease; do. 5*9 lis. to 12s. do. ; Toinatos, Teneriffe,
3s. do. ; Cabbage, Savoys, Is. 3d1, to Is. 9d. per dozen ;
Cauliflowers, Is. 6d. to 2.--. do. ; Parsnips, 3s. 6d. to 4s. per ewt. ;
Herbs. 1(7. to 2d. per bunch; Mint, green, fid. do.; Leeks,
1-. 6d. to 2s. od. per dozen bunches ; Parsley, Is. 6d. to Is. 10d.
per stone ; Potatos, best, hd. to 6d. do. ; Carrots, 25. to 4s
per ewt. ; Artichokes, Is. <'></. do. ; Cucumbers, iW. to Is.
each; Horseradish, Is. 9d. to 2s, per bundle ; Mushrooms, Is.
to Is. 'Si!, per lb. ; Beetroots, 6d. to ~d. per dozen ; Brussels
Sprouts, Is. 3d. to Is. 6d. per stone ; Turnips, large, 2s, tic*,
per dozen bunches ; Sea Kale, Is. I'd. to 2s. per bunch.

Liverpool: 'February 1. — Wholesale Vegetable Market: —
Potatos, per ewt., Giants, 2g. 2d. to 2s. 4d. ; Main Crop, 2s. '"/.
to 3s. 2d. ; Bruce, 2s. 4d. to 2s. Bd. ; Turnips, 8c*, to Hid. per
dozen bunches; Swedes, Is. 2d. to Is. 4d. p. r ewt. ; Carrots,
2s. 9(1. to 3s. 3d. do. ; Parsley, Sd, to Is. per dozen bunches ;
Onions, English, 6s. Bd. to 7s per ewt. ; do., foreign, as. to
5s. 9d.t do.; Cauliflowers, Is. Oct. to 3s. per dozen ; Cabbages,
8d. to is. do. ; Celery, Sd. to Is. Qd. do. St. John's; — Potatos,
lOd. to Is. per peck ; Grapes, home, 2s. 6d. per lb. ; do.,
foreign, 8d. do. ; Pines, home, 5s. to 6s. each ; Cob-nuts, Zd.
per lb.; Asparagus, Is. to 3s. per bundle ; Cucumbers, Is,
each ; Mushrooms, Is. 3d. per lb., and basket.

CORN.

Average Prices oT British Corn (per imperial qi\), fur the
weekending Januiry 2S, and for the corresponding period ol
1897, together with the difference in the quotations. Tfiese
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

Description.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

«. ,/.

Wheat C4 ii

Barley 2? 8

Oats IT 2

3. rf.
20 7

27 9

17 li

s a.

- 7 11
+ 0 1

- 0 2

80

THE GARDE NE R S' CHR 0 Nl CL E.

[February 4, 1S99.

[The term " accumulated temperature " indicates the aggregate
amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature

above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named J and tins
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees— a "Day-
degree " signifying l- continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

Rainfall.

Bright

Hun.

J3 M

Accumulated.

§

a>

G3

§ 1

-<

T^

*"^S

0

'"l

2-a

e

5
7

03

.a

S

a)

- DC
i. '-' -•

- - /

g'3rH

I - -.

1 a*

* -

P

t-5
0)

o 2

a -
° 5

«

<o a

> «J

o *

>

o

<

o &

O
"a,

B

•Sg"

- a)

• B s

Below 42°, di
from Mean
January 1.

J- t-l

Op
O

6

'55

o
H

■2.S

a;
o

,?

g§

Day-

Day-

Day-

Day-

lOths

deg.

deg.

deg. deg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

■1 -

0

57

-in - 13

10 -

20 5'4

30

17

1

6 -

0

7(5

- 24 + 7

5 -

1 37

34

20

2

2 -

0

43

+ 20 - 54

1 -

IS 2-2

26

16

3

■-> +

4

28

+ 53 - 107

3 -

19 21

00

32

4

2 —

0

43

+ 39 - S5

4 -

20 3-4

40

24

5

0 avei

I!

25

+ C3 - 112

G -

19 2-9

59

2'.'

6

;", _

0

;'.3

+ 3

- 1>

12

22 0-1

30

i.;

7

3 -

0

40

+ 37

i;i

5 -

20 4-s

36

21

8

3 -

0

2!l

+ 48

- 70

6 -

21 0-7

56

22

9

4 -

0

40

- 1

6

5 -

22

:',-:>

47

23

10

.'! -

5

30

+ 30

_ 2~

7 _

22

5-8

45

25

*

1 -

10

0

+ 96

- 44

6 -

21

4-7

43

20

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, dr., Districts — 6, Scotland, W. ;
7, England, N.W. ; S, 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 January 28, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office :—

"The weather was mild, unsettled, and rainy at the com-
mencement of the period, but soon became much colder, dry,
and very Tine generally. Over the north of England and the
south of Scotland, however, a good deal of fog cr mist was
experienci d.

"The temperature was much lower than that of any previous
week during the present winter. In ' England, E.,' it. was 2°
above the mean average, and .just averaged it in ' England, S. ,'
but elsewhere it ranged from 1° below the normal in the
'Channel Islands,' to 4° below in 'Scotland, N.,' and
' Ireland, N.,' and tor, below in Scotland, E.' The highest of
the maxima were recorded on the 22nd, and ranged From 56"
in the ' Channel Islands.' and M° in ' England, E. anil S.,' and
to 45' in 'Scotland, N.' The lowest of the minima, which
were recorded during the middle or latter part of the week,
ranged From 10° in 'Scotland, E.' (at Braemar), 12° in 'Scot-
land, N., and 15 in 'Scotland, W.,' to 28° in 'England, S.,'
and to 323 in the ' Channel Islands.'

"The rainfall was less than the mean in all districts. The
fall over the greater part of the Kingdom Mas very slight, and
took place on the 22nd or 23rd.

" The bright sunshine was greatly in excess in all districts.
The percentage of the possible duration ranged from 20 in
' England, N.E.,' and 30 in 'Scotland, N. and W.,' to 45 to 47
in Ireland, 50 in ' England, S.W.,' 59 in ' England, S.,' and 60
in 'England, E.'"

A Neighbour's Fowls and the Garden: C. II.

The law does not allow you to kill the fowls, these
being domestic animals. Your proper course,
after doing what is required, by feucing, &c. , to
keep out the birds, is to warn the owner, and if
the depredations still continue, to sue him for
the amount of damage doue. A little friendly

remonstrance would, we should suppose, suffice
to abate the nuisance.
Books : Charli s Brown. The latest we know of
is Dr. Udo Dammer's Palmenaucht und Pal-
menjlege (propagation and cultivation of Palms),
published by Trowitzsch und Sohn, Frankfort.
It was reviewed in these columns Feb. 5, 1898.

Buck-wheat : E. I!. Ordinary Buck Wheat is,
botauically, Polygonum or Fagopyrum esculen-
tum, a European and northern Asian plant, grow-
ing to an elevation of 14,000 feet. It can be
raised as a first crop on newly broken-op sandy
land, but not too dry heath laud, and may be
ploughed in as green manure, (irowth being
extremely rapid, it can be grown at a great
elevation, and in climates where the summers
are short. In Norway it grows to lat. 67" 56'. The
grain can be made into palatable food by boiling
or baking, and it is good in meat-soups, used
similarly to pearl-barley. On very rich soil the
plaut yields much foliage, but less grain, than on
poor soil.

Caper Brsn : II'. /-. L. The plant is too tender
for outdoor culture in this country. In the
south of France the plant is extensively culti-
vated out-of-doors. The young berries, preserved
in salt and vinegar, form the capers of commerce.
The plant, which is a trailing bush, would grow
in the greenhouse, and outside against a warm
wall, as at Kew aDd the Oxford Botanic Garden.

Drain from Stables: Constant Reader. To enable
the drain to clear itself, a fall of not less than
2 inches in a yard run would suffice, and this for
half the distance traversed, that is, to about the
beginning of the steep descent of the road would
involve digging the trench ten feet deep at the
lowest part, and gradually working up to the
stable Hoor. Down the descent from the point
where the bottom of the draiu conies to within 1.1
feet of the surface, the draiu may generally
follow the fall of the road at a depth of I \ or
2 feet. Ordinary drain -pipes cannot be recom-
mended, for however well they may be laid the
sewage will escape into the ground at the joints,
and in courte of time cause a nuisance ; iron-
pipes, oi- glazed earthenware-pipes with collars,
which can be Idled with cement are preferable,
especially the lirst named.

Dyed Flow els is a Wreath : Irvine. A
Guaphalium, or similar Composite, deeply stained
witli violet dye.

Lilii'ms, Tuberoses, &c. : A. S. II'. There appears
to be no disease affecting the one or the other,
and the failure must therefore be sought in some
of the details of the cultivation afforded them
being unsuitable. Failure in respect of Tube-
roses very frequently arises from the fact that
the tubers make considerable top growth before
there are sufficient roots formed to support it.
As in the case of most bulbous plants that are
subjected to such severe drying-olT as are
Tuberoses, very great -care is needed to prevent
top-growth bring excited thus prematurely, and
until roots are somewhat plentiful very little
water indeed should be afforded the plants. If
the pots be plunged in a higher temperature than
that of the atmosphere it will be a great advan-
tage. Iu the matter of Lilium lancifolium var.
Harrisii, we believe the trouble to be due to a
check to growtli at a time when the flower-buds
had just formed. Perhaps you may lie able to
detect hew this has arisen.

Lime, Nitrate oe Soda, and Sulphate op
Ammonia, &c. : T. E. S. As you omit to state
the kind of soil to which the above substances
are to be applied, we may say briefly that lime
is most beneficial ou land containing much vege-
table matter — such, for instance, as peat, and,
with the sulphate of iron nearly always present
in such soils, decomposes them, and combiuing
with the liberated sulphuric acid evolved, forms
sulphate of lime — a valuable fertiliser. Clay
soil is rendered more friable, and not so liable to
be baked in the summer. Lime consolidates
sandy soils, causing a greater retention of
moisture. The quantity of quicklime per acre
may range from 100 bushels to 400 bushels,
depending ou the depth it is ploughed in —
the more the deeper. As a rule, for surface-
dressings to be carried to the roots by raiu, it is
better to afford mild dressings at intervals of a
few months, but not during hot weather. Lime
used with nitrates would be a wasteful practice.

Common salt is better, in the proportion of two
of lime to one of salt, and applied at the rate of
40 bushels per acre. Sulphate of ammonia
should be applied to orchards in just sufficient
quantity to produce healthy and vigorous growth
without causing over luxuriance. Potash (nitrate
of) is a good manure for almost all kinds of
fruits, but it should not be used in greater quan-
tity than lj cwt. per acre : but carbonate and
muriate of potash may be afforded in the way of
wood-ashes, especially those of green wood,
applied at the rate of 40 bushels per acre.

Moss ox Lawns: H. G. When the mossiness is
not due to lack of drainage, scratch off as much
of the moss as possible with an iron rake, then
dress with wood-ashes made from green trim-
mings and brauches of trees and shrubs. In the
month cf April prick up the bare spots, and
spread loam over them, sowiog lawn-grasses and
fine Clovers over the loamy patches, raking the
seeds in and rolling the ground. When the
drainage is bad, this must be seen to. Rubble
drains 3 to 4 feet deep are better than pipes or
tiles if there are trees and shrubs near to or on
the lawn.

Names of Fruits : J. D. The specimen is not
sufficiently good. Send earlier next season.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so ijood as to consult
the following number. — ,/. E. K. Probably a
species of Zanthoxylnm, specimen insufficient. —
II. P. 1, Acaeia armata ; 2, A. saligna ;
3, Veronica salicifolia ; 4, Daphne odora ; 5,
Kupatorium ageratoides. — H. II. T. A very
handsome Hower of Cattleya Triana-i. — 6. M..
Arbroath. Send when in flower ; 2, Toxico-
phhea spectabilis, otherwise, Acokanthera
spectabilis. — .1/. A'. M. The plant you men-
tion is probably mentioned as Cattleya gut-
tata Leopoldi. It is a very easy plant to grow
and flower. It usually blooms in summer. —
P. P. Bichardia africaua, so-called Arum Lily,
because it is not au Arum, and certainly not a
Lily ! A double spathe is not unusual. — Aja.r.
It is difficult, and sometimes impossible, to name
small scraps of Couifers without cones. 1, Pinus
insignia : 2, Abies Pinsapo ; 3, A. uobilis : 4, A.
Nordmauniana ; .">, Pseudotsuga Douglasii ; 6,
perhaps Cedrus Deodara. — M. 67., Rothesay.
l'etasites (Tussilago) fragrans, the Scented Colts-
foot. See Bot. Mag., t. 133S.

Orchid Collectors*: Oaspary. These persons
are usually seut out by great nursery firms, and
directors of botanical gardens, and they are
usually inteut on obtaining certain species or
new species of Orchids. The ordinary resident
collector or trader cannot be depended upon to
send any plant that is likely to live, or which is
worth cultivating. Far better obtain established
plants of known species from European firms.

Palm le\f diseased : O. B. The leaf sent is
affected by a fungus, Pestalozzia plueuicis, which
was figured aud described in the Gardeners'
Chronicle, Oct. 4, 1884, p. 429. Auy of the usual
remedies against parasitic fungi may be employed,

vi. m Seed: C. B. Sow forthwith in pots of
sandy loam, singly in small pots, if not many are
sown, otherwise from ten to twenty iu 6-inch
pots. The seeds must be kept close in a tempe-
rature of 6.V to 7<t'.

P

Couhunicatjons Beceived.— W. Camni.— W, C— Dr. Christ,
Hale.— W. G. S, Leeds.-!!. N.-J. L.— C B. M.— L. Con-
tich.— V. K.— D. R. W.— E. B. T., Florida.— E. E„ Ghent.
— C. B.— E. Whittall, Smyrna.— H. Porter.— J. Maeers.—
E. M— W. Home.— R. LV— W. H. Y.— W. R.— Wild Rose.—
.1. .1. W.— Robert Craig.— Charles Joly.— J. Bartt Davy.
California.— Traveller — J. R.B. — Novice. — Jas. Lee. — A. H.
.1. W. M.-I. W. F.— G. Thomas— E. J. L.-G. H.—
11. M. R.— J. G. B. & Co., next reel;.— T. F. L., next week.

IMPORTANT TO ADVERTISERS.-'""' I,,l'»»" &«»
the satisfaction of announcing that the circulation of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
vrict of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers an- reminded thut the " ClironlcU " circulates among
Country Gkntlemen, and ali. Classes of Gardeners
and Garden-lover* tit home, that U has a spec'ally large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation, and that it is
preserved /or referenec in all the 2>rhmj>al Libraries.

February 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

81

THE

(iardwcrfr dptroniclc

No. G.33.— SATURDAY, FEB. 11, 1899.

SOIL VERSUS CLIMATE IN THE
CULTURE OF ROSES.

BEF< >RE entering upon this subject, let me
say that I have solely in view what are
called exhibition Roses, the successful cultiva-
tion of which has so materially advanced the
culture of the national flower in all its branches,
and the subject of enquiry is this — whether the
goodness of the soil or the mildness of the
climate has most to do with this success ? 1
know that very varying opinions are held, and
my own opinion, which may be taken for what
it is worth, has always been that much more
depends on the climate than on the soil.

Two circumstances have brought it more pro-
minently before me of late, one has been the
publication of an interesting brochure, by Lord
Brougham and Yaux, Roses of Cannes, an
attempt not to enter into details of Rose
culture, but simply to give the Rose-loving
public an idea of what Roses are in that
favoured locality. Lord Brougham has, as
your readers have been told, made himself
famous for his success in flowering for the first
time in Europe that grand single-flowered species,
Rosa gigantea ; but the book is mainly occupied
with the Roses he grows at Cannes, somewhat
in the style of the chapter on "Manners and
Customs" in Mr. Foster-Melliar's classic book
on the Rose.

The other circumstance is, that Mr. Alexander
Hill-Grey, a most enthusiastic grower, has
placed in the hands of the committee of the
National Rose Society the sum of £5 5s. to be
by them expended in obtaining an analysis of
Rose soils from some of the best Rose-growing
districts in the country. We may thus be
enabled to see what charm there is in the
various " Rose" soils.

But it seems to me, in my ignorance, that
there is a preliminary question of no small im-
portance. Roses are but little grown on their
own roots ; they mostly have foster-parents —
the Briar (whether wild or cultivated, seedling
or cutting), the Manetti, the La Grifferaie, itc.
Surely it ought to be a question whether it
is the soil that suits these various stocks
that ought to lie considered. Take, for
instance, the Manetti : this has been much
condemned of late years, and yet but for
its introduction Rose-growing would hardly
have attained its present dimensions; but if
the Manetti is planted in what one has
always regarded as a true Rose soil — viz., a rich
unctuous loam, it acquires such vigour that,
without very careful management, it is apt to
overpower the Rose budded on it, especially if
the latter have any delicacy of constitution.

On the other hand, if the soil is light and
gravelly, I believe Roses will do as well on it as
on any stock ; and I have before my mind a
garden where the portion devoted to Roses was
of this character, and yet the flowers staged
from it generally occupied a foremost place
at exhibitions. May it not be, then, that the

stock has much more to be considered than
the Rose ?

Again, if we take the Briar : of late years we
have had the cultivated seedling Briar, and the
Briar cutting introduced as the stock for dwarf
Roses. The seedling Briar spreads out its roots,
and is therefore generally considered to be
better for lighter soils ; while the Briar cutting
sends its roots deeply down, and so is better
adapted for a true Rose soil. I have men-
tioned all these matters because, as I have said,
the stock has a more important part to play than
the Rose. It is manifest that if this be true, the
cultivator has very much the matter in his own
hands, and he will be regulated in his choice
of stocks by the character of his soil, but he
has no power whatever over the climate — this
he must be content to take as he finds it.

There are some parts of the kingdom where it
is impossible to grow Tea Roses in the open,
owing to the coldness and bleakness of the situa-
tion ; while there are others, as in some parts of
Cornwall, where it is impossible to grow hybrid
perpetuals with any degree of excellence. As
the late Hon. and Rev. J. T. Boscawen used to
say to me, "I can grow Lapageria rosea
and Camellias in the open air, but I cannot
grow a decent Marie Baumann." This does
not always depend on latitude, for in the
south-west of Scotland, where the influence
of the Gulf Stream tells, I have seen as
grand plants of Roses as I ever saw in my life :
I have seen a stand of twelve prize blooms of
La France taken off one bush ; but get further
inland, and you will find what a different matter
it is. Go to Perthshire, for instance, where
Mr. Hill-Grey for years pitched his tent and
tried to grow Tea Roses, but he was so entirely
beaten by the climate, that he struck his tent,
and came down south, bent upon obtaining a
place where he could grow them ; and we all
know how successfully he has accomplished this
in the genial climate of Bath.

I have already alluded to Lord Brougham's
description of the manner in which Tea Roses
succeed in the Riviera ; we have often been
told from competent eye-witnesses something of
the same kind. Some years ago, for instance,
the late Dr. Henry Bennet gave an interesting
account in the Rasaricm's Year Book of his expe-
rience there in Rose-growing ; while Mr. Alex-
ander Hill-Grey has, in the same publication,
detailed the gr< iwth of Chromatella, or Cloth of
Gold, in the Azores. But neither of them has
entered so much into detail as Lord Brougham,
and some of his descriptions will astonish
growers of Tea Roses in this country. He gives,
for instance, an illustration of Marie Van
Houtte. The plant figured is seven years old,
and covers a pie^e of ground 70 feet in circum-
ference ! We have often seen fine plants of
this variety in England, but they are all dwarfs
and pigmies in comparison with this one. Of
Chromatella, or Cloth of Gold, although he
thinks they are distinct, he gives a glowing
description of a plant he saw years ago which
had taken possession of an Olive-tree, which it
had covered with its shoots and beautiful
flowers, although he adds, strangely enough,
the Rose does not appear to flourish there as it
did formerly. Of Papa Gontier, he says that it
attains the height of 25 feet, and a diameter of
7 feet, and that a couple of years suffices to turn
a single plant into a large bush or tree.

I might multiply instances illustrating the
effects of the genial climate of the South of
France, and establishing my point that climate
has far more to do with the successful culture
of the Rose than soil.

Now, let us look to our own country. East
Anglia has generally been regarded as one of
the most successful centres of Tea Rose growing
in the kingdom, and it has the driest, sunniest
climate in England ; and when my friend, the
Rev. F. R. Burnside, lived in the mild and
damp climate of Herefordshire, he could only
grow his Teas successfully by planting them in
an elevation of some 300 or 400 feet above sea-
level.

Hybrid perpetuals are, perhaps, not so much
influenced by climate as Teas and Noisettes,
though they are unquestionably so to some
extent. I have seen gardens where the soil was
poor in the extreme, but where, the climate
being good, magnificent results were obtained.
That ardent rosarian, the late Mr. Geo. Baker, at
Reigate, made, with a great expenditure of
time and money, a splendid Rose-garden out of
very unpromising materials. I do not think he
would have ventured on this but for the
assurance that he had, that the salubrity of the
district would be all in his favour. Another
proof of the correctness of my position is, the
comparative scarcity of amateur growers in the
North, and the manner in which they are handi-
capped in the annual contests of the Rose. So
much is this the case, that at Rose-shows held
in the North, a much greater number of the
best prizes is awarded to southern growers ;
and this year no northern show is to be held at
all, because no place is willing to run the risk
of incurring the responsibility, financial and
otherwise, of holding a Rose exhibition.

1 have thus endeavoured to give the pros and
cons in this disputed matter. I am not an
exhibitor, and have no personal interest in the
question ; and I should be very glad if the
observations that I have made should lead to a
further discussion upon the subject. On this, as
on every point connected with gardening,
opinions will differ, and nothing but good can
result from ventilating them. Wild Rose.

New or Noteworthy Plants.

*

PASSIFLORA "MARGARET WILSON/'
Tin, Passion-flowers form, in mauy respects, a
remarkable group of flowering plants. The
structure of the flower attracted notice long ago,
and suggested the adoption of a symbolical desig-
nation for the order. Many of the very numerous
species, all exotic, have found their way into culti-
vation. The most familiar one is the widely -grown
Passiflora ccerulea, a south Brazilian plant, with
coustitntion fo hardy as to enable it to withstand,
with a little shelter, the winters of the south of
England, and the winters of Scotland also when
they are open. The white variety of this species,
Constance Eliott, diners from the type in lacking
the "coerulean" colours of the radiating coronal
filaments, the petals and sepals being almost the
same in both. The leaves of P. ccerulea are com-
monly 5-lobed, the branches sub-terete, obscurely
angled, and the stipules large and aristate. The
flowers are 3 to 3J inches in diameter, the perianth
flat or recurved, and the coronal rays straight. The
odour is faint and unpleasant.

In another section of the genus, the species havo
leaves simple and ovate, branches quadrangular
and winged, aud stipules small and tapering. P.
alata and P. quadraugularis are well-known warm-
greenhouse examples of this section.

The peculiar traits of certain species evidenced
by their reluctance to set seed with their own
pollen, and yet be readily susceptible to cross-fer-
tilisation, have engaged the attention of skilled
observers. Among the numerous hybrids secured,
there is one of special interest in the present con-
nection, viz., P. Buonapartea. This beautiful

82

THE GAB BE NEBS' CHBONICLE.

[February 11, 1890.

Passion-flower is commonly understood to be a
hybrid between the above-named qnadrangnlay-
stemmed species. The perianth is 5 inches in
diameter, fleshy, deep red, .and never flattened out.
The long wavy coronal rays form a deep basket,
barred and dotted with "red, white and blue,"
enclosing the conspicuous reproductive organs. To
add to its attractiveness, the odour is powerful and
pleasant.

The new hybrid (fig. 36, p. 89) is from P. Buona-
partea, fertilised by P. co-rulea. One seed only germi-
nated out of many taken from a fine fruit. While
bearing resemblance to P. Jmperatrice Eugenie and
others derived by crossing P. alata or P. quadrangu-
laris with P. ccerulea, it is quite distinct from, and
in many features, bears very favourable comparison
with these. Its fine lilac-rose colour, its pleasant
and not too penetrating perfume, its shapely leaves,
and very robust and tloriferous habit, render it a
desirable addition to the list of indoor climbers.

It possesses many characters of botanical interest,
its hybrid nature 1 eing very manifest in every
stiuctural, even microscopical, detail. It may
suffice at present to mention one interesting feature,
in which ocular demonstration is afforded of a
remarkably precise solution of an arithmetical
problem. The leaves of the one parent have, so to
speak, one lobe, the other live lobes, and the
hybrid three. The result of the blending of parental
characters can be expressed arithmetically, thus,

Description.— Young stem and branches distinctly 4 to
5-angled, often purplish ; leaves glabrous, three-lobed ; petiole
1! to 2 in. long, bearing four glands, two of which are placed
nearthetop, and the other two ahout mid-length ; lamina, 5 to

0 in. long, 7 to 8 in. broad, base cordate, loins ovate-acute
notched near the angles ; stipules, 5 inch long, '. inch broad,
oblique, serrate, aecuniinate ; peduncle 1 to )] inch l'-np :
bracts foliai as, ovate-cordate, ercnulate, 1 inch long.

1 lowers, 4j to 5 inches diameter, odoriferous ; perianth lilac-
rose, sepalsoblong, Heshy, cuspidate; petals oblong, spreading,

paler underneath, often cucullate at the apex; faucial no

of four series of filaments, the outer double series alternate;
eighty to ninety-five in number and 1J to 15 inch long, deep
purple-brown at base, further up banded with pme white, the
distal-half bright purple-blue, often undulate, tip whitish,
glandular; the inner-series J inch long, straight oi slightly to nt,
very deep brown purple ; median corona fbrmini below a
membranous red tube inclining towards and enclosing the
base of the gynandrophore, receding above in a whorl of short,
almost black fllnments; the infra-median nnnulus, fleshy,
incurved; basilar corona, a cup-shaped dilatation of the
1 ase of the gynandrophore ; anthers somewhat aborted ; pollen
deficient ; ovary elliptical, light green; stigmata, purplish-
drab, John II. Wilson, V.Sc, St. Andrews.

KEW NOTES.

Coletjs thyrsoideus.— Note of the introduction
of this new species of Coleus was made in the
Gardeners' Chronicli last February, p. 79, on its
flowering at Kew. It was then described as a
showy blue Labiate which was likely to prove a
useful winter-flowering plant for the greenhouse.
Several plants raised from cuttings struck in spring
and grown on in a warm greenhouse in summer
have formed shapely bushes 2 feet high and wide,
and in December they developed terminal thyreoid
panicles 9 inches high of flowers of the brightest
gentian-blue colour, which have been an attraction
for nearly two mouths, and are still good. I know
no plant that is more effective iu the winter;
certainly no plant at Kew has been more admired.
No doubt in a clearer atmosphere than we have at
Kew in winter this plant would be better even than
it has been here. It is worth the attention of all
-who are interested in winter-flowering greenhouse
plauts. The leaves are blight green, coarsely
seriated, and about 3 inches long and wide.

PYCNOSTACHYS lETlclluUA.
This is another handsome blue-flowered Labiate
from British Central Africa, whence numerous
interesting plants have lately been introduced
to Kew, mainly through tile energy of the
botanical department recently established at
Zomba. The Pycnostachys was, however, first sent
home by Dr. Livingstone, who sent seeds of it to
Messrs. Backhouse, of York, in IStil , from which

plants were obtained which flowered in January,
1863, and were figured in the Botanical Magazine,
I. 5365. It does not appear to have become estab-
lished in gardens, notwithstanding that it was then
described by .Sir William Hooker as " well worthy
of cultivation from the size and beauty of its flower-
spikes. We are much mistaken if it does not
become a great favourite in our gardens before
long." Grown iu pots at Kew it was not a success,
but planted in the border in a sunny position in
the new Mexican-house, it has foimed a tall, loose
shrub, with long leafy branches, not unlike a big
Nettle, as its specific name suggests, whilst each
branch is now terminated by a Lupin-like head of
rich mazarine-blue (lowers.

Lobelia Rhyhchopetalum.
Good seeds of this, the "Gevara" of Abyssinia,
have lately been presented to Kew by A. B. Wylde,
Esq. The only plant I ever saw of it used to be iu
the Kew collection, but it died about ten years ago.
It is by far the most remarkable of the woody-
stemmed Lobelias, of which the Indian L. excclsa
(nicotiam-efolia) is often met with iu gardens, and
which develops a tall stem, like a huge Cabbage-stalk,
0 fiat or more high, bearing lanceolate leaves a foot
or more long, and an erect branched raceme, a
foot long, of pale lilac flowers. It flowers almost
annually in the houses at Kew. L. llhyneho-
petalumis, or was, a slow grower under cultivation.
It is described in the Flora of Tropical Africa as a
tall woody plant, with the habit of a Palm, having
a stout hollow unbranched sUm, 12 to 15 feet high,
naked in the lower part when in flower, densely
leafy towards the top. and terminating in a long
simple dense spicifoim braeteate raceme of greyish-
violet flowers, clothed with a felt-like tomentum,
each 2 to 3 inches long. It used to be known as
Bhynchopetalum montanum Mr. Wylde says it
glows on the high mountains of Abyssinia, where
frost and snow occur, and thinks it might therefore
prove hardy in England.

BliCOMAS 1-I.oM I 1IJNA.

The genus Begonia is but poorly represented
among the plants discovered in China, only nine
species being enumerated in Hemsley's Tndex Flora
Sinensis, and of these- B. Evansiana (discolor) is the
only one known here as a garden plant. About
half a dozen promising additions have, however,
lately beeu made by Dr. Henry, who sent seeds of
them from Tonking to Kew, from which plants
have been raised. One of these has lately flowered,
and it proves to be B. sinensis. It is a slender species
about a foot high, villi herbaceous stems, bearing
pale green leaves, like those of B. Evansiana, but
smaller. 'lie- flowcis in erect axillary racemes.
are nearly an inch across, their colour is bright pink.
In habit the plant resembles B. gracilis. The
other plants raised from Dr. Henry's seeds arc quite
distinct from all other cultivated Begonias : one has
crowded digitate leaves; another large velvety
green, oblique-lobed leaves; another is a large
bushy plant 5 feet high. A Chinese Begonia, called
fimbristipula, which used to be in the Kew collec-
tion, is remarkable for the fragrance of its flowers.
It is worth re-introduction; probably Mr. Ford, of
Hong Kong, could semi it. W. IT.

WHAT COXKTITTTES ODONTO-
GLOSSUM WILCKEANUM?

Recently, an Odontoglossum bloomed by Mr.
K. Broomau White, at Arddairoch, has been noted
by Mr. Bolfe (Orchid Hi view, January, 1899, p. 10),
the description of which again raises a question
discussed iu these- columns in 1S90 (November 21,
p. 632), and followed up by Mr. Bolfe in Orchid
Review, March hsf>7, p. 73 (' ' scq.). Mr. White's
new arrival will, I hope, set at rest all doubts that
may be left in the minds of our "experts." It
is a pure yellow, spotless form of 0. Wilckeanum,
which can be imagined from the following descrip-
tion : — Sepals and petals pale canary -yellow, spot-
less. Lip of a deeper shade, which completely

spreads over its whole surface. Under the centra
teeth of the crest is a very small brown mark, and
four or five pairs of faint brown lines in the channel
below the column. The column is pale creamy-
white, having three or four cirrhi on each wing.
In form, the flower is like an ordinary narrow
erispum, whose sepals and petals just overlap ; the
petals have the halbert-shaped outline of those of
luteo-purpureum ; the lip is oblong, with nearly
parallel sides, which are slightly contracted one-
third up from the short stiff apiculus.

The important botanical feature is the crest. The
central teeth are bright yellow, short, and sharply
pointed ; the first three pairs of filaments arc
extended beyond the plate, though far less than in
many blotched Wilckeanums, which is natural, and
to be expected, 1 ecause this variety has more than
half erispum parentage in its constitution, as is
proved by the "total absence of spots." Had I
first published this variety, I should have named it
'• iinmaculatum," as this varietal name would have
clearly explained its "total absence of spots," all
Wilckeanums being more or less yellow ; but Mr.
Rolfe, who publishes it (Orchtd Review, January,
18S9, p. 10), follows on with Reicheubach's varietal
name, which he gave to it in 1S80 (Gardeners'
Chronicle, xiii., 41, and 232), when he erroneously
called it " erispum flavcolum." Afterwards, the late
Mr. George Hardy's plant was figured in the Orchid
Album, pi. 43, showing it to have unspotted sepals
and petals, but three or four small brown sjiots in
the lip. As some may not see the Orchid Album, I
quote Mr. Rolfe's note in i .ct< nso : —

'■ HHiVi. (.[ eisse'M WllCKEANUM FI.AYFeiUM.

"A very pretty Odontoglossum is ligured at t, 43' of the
Crcliid AlLvm, under the name of O. c. naveolnm, Rchb. f. A
very similar form has appeared in the collection of If. Brooman
White, Esq., of Arddarroch, but a comparison with the- iimiir.
reus teams of O. Wilckeanum shows see many points of
resemblance as t«t leave- utile- elemlit that it also belongs to
this polymorphic hybrid. The general resemblance t • • <>.
erispum, and the total absence of spots, has probably led to
its being considered ;e yellow foim of that species ; but flic
shape of the lip, the lateial leeile of the- crest, the more
toothed column wings, as we-11 as the shape and ground-) oloin
of the sepals and petals, all show an approach to O. luteo pnr-
pureum. indeed, it i. nearer to O. Wilnkeanum siilplueroum,
Rchb. f., than to P. erispum, and I sies)-o.t tli.it all tin- so
called yellow teams of G. e-iispeitii arc of hybrid origin."

Here Mr. Bolfe is clear in his new definition of
Wilckeanum, even though they have "a general
lesemblance to G. erispum, aud total absence of
spots;" theiefore I presume that now he would
possibly class as a Wilckeanum a "so-called yellow
form of erispum " that agreed with his new defini-
tion, and had also a great many spots ami
blotches. He now tardily admits, though in a
manner that appears as if he had never doubted
the facts, which have- been stated by the writer
loth in and out of print for years past, ami strongly
contested by Mr. Rolfe in the Orchid Revuw. Hi'
even now only "suspects" it. It has taken him
nearly two years to advance from the position of
denying a yellow, heavily-spotted form to be a
Wilckeanum (Orchid Hi rim-, March, 1897, p. 74),
to that of "leaving little doubt" that a yellow-
unspotted form is one. When will he feel sure
that all these yellow and spotted forms are
Wilckeanums?

In discussing "Golden Queen" (Orchid Review,
March, 1897, p. 74), and commenting on my opinion
that it was a Wilckeanum, he said: — " There are
both yellow and spotted forms in which 1 cannot
detect the slightest deviation from the typical O.
erispum in its essential characters." Clearly from
this Mr. Rolfe then thought that colour was not an
"essential character." Now he evidently considers
it is, for he says iu regard to the Orchid Allium
plate, "General resemblance to 0. erispum, and
the total abst in'' of s/.o/s " (the italics are mine. De
B. G), "probably led to its being considered a
yellow form of that species."

Inversely, this proves him to think at present
that a " yellow ground colour " even without spots,
is Wilckeanum ; perhaps with the spots added he
wortld be sure. It may be inferred from this that
be- also " suspects " a true' erispum has no spotting.

Frbruary 11, 1800.]

THE GARDENER 8' CHRONICLE.

83

Wliat has led him to change his definition, and
" suspect that all the so-called yellow forms of 0.
crispum arc of hybrid origin," for anent the "Golden
Queen," he says : — "At the first glance I took to
be a form of 0. x Wilckeauum, but on careful
examination " (italics are mine. De B. 0. ), "failed
to find a single character that could be ascribed to
the influence of 0. luteo-purpureuin." Would he
now, after a careful re-consideration, come to the
same conclusion, that the " Golden Queen," which
has "yellow ground colour," "more prominent
lateral teeth of the crest," and numerous spots aud
blotches, is still acrispum, aud not a Wilckeauum ?
These teeth and filaments are far more pronounced
in "Golden Queen " than in Mr. White's variety ;
and in the photograph that Mr. Rolfe meutions
{Orchid Review, May, 1S07, p. 143), taken by Mr.

staged by L. Parry, Esq., at the National Rose
Society's show at the Crystal Palace, in July of
last year, I called late in the summer for a look
round the garden whence so many good flowers had
come. I was fortunate in finding Mr. Parry at
home, aud in his Rose-garden attending to very
important requirements of some of the younger
plants. He, however, relinquished his work kindly,
and showed me his garden and greenhouses, gossip-
ing the while on his recent successes in the field of
Rose-shows. To have secured a place in the win-
ning-stands was itself a feat of which anyone
might be proud, but to win premier honours was a
pleasure indeed, and a grateful reward for his
continued efforts.

The rose-quarters are not extensive, but the
position is very suitable, being closely sheltered,

(fig. 34) shows several large Magnolia grandiflora
and yellow Banksian Roses, which together cover
nearly the whole of the front. The long, low
house, with the church on the right, the tower of
which is also covered with Ivy and Roses, pre-
seut, as our readers will agree, a picture of beauty
and repose. The church, which was greatly out
of repair, is now restored, and service is regu-
larly held therein. The dwelling-house was in
olden times a monastery, the church belonging to
tin- same. The photograph, from which the figure
was taken, twelve months ago, does not do justice
to the two beds as they appear this year. On
these two plots of grass there were about twenty
small flower-beds, that were filled with flowering
plants the year round, but it was thought that these
numerous beds were not so effective as larger

l'n:. 34.— STINSFORD HOUSE, DORCHESTKR, THE RESIDENCE OF L. TARRY, ESQ,

Stevens from the dried bloom which I speak of ou
the same page, they are better seen than in the
figure in the Orchid Review (April, 1807, p. 11.").

It is often stated that no one but a botanist should
name any plant, more especially natural hybrids
and " forms," but if the botanist or "expert" does
it in this way, we are wise in doing all we can to
correctly name them without their aid. Instances
could be multiplied ad nauseam, to show that it is
quite time that " the Orchid Society " was founded,
where the cult could be centralised, and reliable
data collected. Thirteen years ago I said the same
thing : the need of it is now a thousandfold greater.
Dc I!. Grawshay.

STINSFORD HOUSE, DORCHESTER.

Induced bya recollection of the beautiful blooms
of the Catherine Mermet, White Lady, Marechal
Niel, Hon. Edith Giflord, and other Roses,

and yet not too much so, and in the lower part
of the garden there is a pool of water. The
soil, in consequence of the proximity of this
body of water, is constantly moist ; yet, the sub-
soil being gravelly, and the staple light, it is
not unduly so. Many of the bushes were still
in flower, including the varieties Caroline Test-
out, Her Majesty, Madame Lambard, Marie
van Houtte, and others. The bloorns were,
although fine in colour, in form and substance
inferior to the earlier ones. The operation Mr.
Parry was engaged in was the re-budding of stocks,
some few of the early-budded ones not appearing
satisfactory, fresh buds were therefore being in-
serted. The Roses were healthy and promising,
and it was anticipated that the display of 1S09
would be better than that of 189S.

Herbaceous perennial plants are grown in great
variety, among them Tritoma Uvaria in large
masses. The illustration of the dwelling-house

ones would be, and so they were turfed over, and
an oval bed of good size was made in the centre of
each area. These beds were, when I saw them,
filled with a mixture of sub-tropical and other
plants, the outermost line consisting of the old
white Pink, then, of course, out of flower — still, a
good plant for such a use. Most of the surface in
these oval beds was covered with Alter u an thera,
while round some of the plants a blue Lobelia was
planted. The other subjects consisted of Dracaena
iudivisa, Grrevillea robusta, Caunas, variegated
Maize, Bamboos, and near the edge, Begonias and
Fuchsias. These beds were in capital londition,
the tallest plant about 30 inches high, the others
slope gradually to the edge.

Planted in a border in the conservatory, a
building situated at the extreme left of the
house, and not to be seen in the picture, is
a large plant of Acacia dealbata, which from
Christmas onwards is covered with the bright

84

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 1], 1899.

yellow blossoms. In some of the other glasshouses
good crops of Melons were remarked, one house
having the Melon-plants planted in borders 4 or
5 feet below the trellises of wire, and notwith-
standing this apparently unsuitable arrangement,
they were showing well for a late crop ; Earl's
Favourite is the variety that Mr. Parry prefers.

In the kitchen -garden a fine Onion-bed was
noted, the plants having been raised from seed
sown on February 4, under glass, and planted out
as soon as strong enough. Alongside were rows of
onions sown in the ordinary mode at the usual
time, and the difference in favour of the former
method was very remarkable, these being 10 and
11 inches in circumference, whilst scarcely one of
the other rows was as large as a Walnut. Pears
trained, as cordons, were fruiting freely in most
cases. Among the Apples so trained was Ribston
Pippin, unusually good ; also on espaliers, were
Blenheim Orange Pippin, Prince Albert, Lord
Suffield, Mother, King of the Pippins, Egremont
Russet, and Cox's Orange Pippin.

The bush fruit had been abundant, and most of
the land so jilauted is covered in with wire-netting
of about 1 inch hexagonal mesh, which provides
protection from the small birds. A visit to the
ancient church with its mementos of other days,
and other services held within its walls, appropri-
ately finished up my trip to Stinoheombe and its
gardens. The entire place reflects credit on the
gardener, Mr. G. Baker. W. Swan, Exmouth.

are now receiving attention from this point of view.
Less likely than the! 'isas, appeared theStenoglottis,
but for some time past Messrs. F. Sander & Co., of
St. Albans, have grown a batch of .Steuoglottis longi-
folia, and they find a ready demand for any number
of its elegant sprays of rose-pink flowers. At
present a quantity of the plants are in flower at
St. Albans. They are pretty pot-plants of various
sizes, and their flower-spikes spring from the centres
of the handsome tufts of green leaves spotted with
purple, some of the larger ones having produced
more than twenty spikes.

Varieties op L/Elia autumnalis.

Flowers of extreme forms of Mexican Lselias sent
by H. Gary Batten, Esq., Abbots Leigh, Bristol,
serve to show the beauty and extraordinary range
of variety there is in them. Two flowers of L.
autumnalis represent the darkest aud the lightest
of the coloured forms. The dark-crimson flower is
the L. a. atrorubens, which is the largest and best
coloured type, and a local form fairly constant.
L a. delicata is almost like L. a. alba, its flowers
being white with a delicate pearly-pink flush.

The variation iu La;lia albida is shown by a
flower of the typical form with white sepals and
petals, and pale-pink lip ; and one of L. albida
Stobartiana, iu which all the segments are heavily
tipped with bright rose-colour, the petals having
the colour extended inward in abroad baud for two-
thirds of their length. Last year the flower was
not so richly coloured. J. O'B.

Orchid Notes and Gleaning?, eucalyptus in this country.

A CYPRIPEDIUM CROSS.
We have in this cross a singular and interesting
flower, possibly a second cross of C. X Leeanum,
though in most points it bears a close resemblance
to C. Spicerianum. It was sent by C. B. Powell.
Esq., The Old Hall, Southborough, who purchased
it, together with other undowered seedlings,
from Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford. The upper sepal is white, with a light green
base, and a purple band up the middle so far as
the green tint goes. In it the most remarkable
feature is that the edges of the upper sepal, espe-
cially at the base, are folded inward instead of
backward, as is usual in crosses of the class. The
lower sepal is greenish-white ; the petals yellowish
with small purple spots ; lip whitish, tinged on the
faca with purple ; staminode cream-white, with a
raised orange-coloured spot in the centre.

An abnormal Dendrobium tetraoonum.

The singular Dendrobium tetragonum, a native of
Australia, is an uncommon species, and its flowers
produced on short racemes from the slender-based
four-angled pseudo-bulbs have always a spider like
appearance, due to their narrow yellow and red-
brown segments, 2 inches in length. An inflores-
cence of one normal and one abnormal flower sent
by Mr. W. H. Young, orchid-grower to Sir
Frederick Wigan, Bart., at Clare Lawn, East Sheen,
presents it in a still more extraordinary guise.

In the abnormal flower, the eularged aud flattened
ovary tells of the presence of more than one flower,
the segments of which have arranged themselves
into a somewhat regular form, giving the appearance
of a small sparsely petalled Chrysanthemum. The
outer segments are five in number, the inner of
four narrow ones similar to petals of a normal
character, and a treble labellum, each of the three
parts partaking of the form of the normal labellum
except that the side lobes are imperfectly developed.
In the centre of these are two stigmas, each perfect
though not of full size.

Stenoslottis longifolia.
Not long siuce it would have raised a smile if any-
one had said that the S. African terrestrial Orchids
would ever be grown for providing cut-flowers.
Nevertheless, so floriferous and easy to cultivate are
Disa racemosa, D. tripetaloides, aud the garden
hybrids raised from them aud 1). unitlora, that they

With reference to the recent notes in the Gar-
deners' Chronicle on the hardiness of Eucalyptus, I
believe that more depends on the situation than on
the actual temperature experienced. I have often
found them killed in winter when plauted in cold
or undrained soil, or exposed to North winds, when
other trees, raised from the same seed and plauted
iu light, warm soil, have been quite unharmed. I
have, during the last twelve years, tried between
fifty aud sixty species of Eucalyptus at Loch
Houru, in Inverness-shire, opposite to the Isle of
Skye, where the climate suits the more hardy
species, even though the thermometer falls to zero in
severe winters, aud the strong Atlantic gales try
them much. The average rainfall varies from 911
to 140 inches per annum (31 5 inches fell between
December 1 and 29 last) ; they seem to enjoy a
heavy rainfall if plauted in a well-drained situa-
tion, but a cold, uudrained soil is fatal in our
climate, though in hot climates some species
flourish iu wet places. At Loch Hourn, by
far the hardiest is E. vornicosa which, Sir Joseph
Hooker says, is the smallest of the genus,
from 1 to 4 feet high, aud only growing on the
summit of Mount Fatigue in Tasmania, at an eleva-
tion of 4,000 feet. I have tried in vain to obtain
seed, as I have only one specimen, a small bush, ten
years old, and 2J feet high, but as last autumn it
was covered with flower-buds, I hope to save seed
this year. It is evideutly a rare species, as the
botanic gardens at Hobart, Tasmania, were unable
to obtain seed for me, aud M. Naudiu wrote me
that he only knew it from dried specimens ; but the
Edinburgh B jtanic Gardens raised some plants from
semi a few years ago. The next in hardiness at Loeh
Hourn are trees raised from seed of Mr. Balfour's
tree at Whittinghame, near Edinburgh, of which
there was a description in the Gardt u is' t_'lie,>un-l< ,
April 14 and May 19, 1SS8. I do not think that
M. Naudin, who is now undoubtedly the highest
authority on the genus, would have pronounced it
to be E. urnigera, had he seen the tree itself and
seedlings from it, as in his monographs on Euca
lyptus he says of E. urnigera, " the leaves always
green, never glaucous." Now, the young trees
raised from Whittinghame seed are very glaucous,
almost a grey-blue colour, becoming dark green as
they grow older. I have forty or fifty plauted out, ami
canuot distinguish them from E. (tunui growing
close by ; they are very similar iu foliage, both in
the young aud adult state, flowers, seeds, and

habit of growth. If, as I believe, they are E.
Guuni, the slightly greater hardiness may be attri-
butable to their being from Scotch-grown seed, and
perhaps this may be even more marked in their
descendants. I should say that I refer to E. Guuui
raised from Australian seed, as those raised from
Tasmauian seed differ much from the Australian
variety.

E. coccifera, E. Gunni, and E. urnigera are nearly
as hardy, but the foliage aud young branches were
cut in the severe winter of 1894-9.5, when for days
together the thermometer was at or close to
zero, aud the sea-loch frozen over for 2 miles. I
have now several hundred of these three species
planted out on the hill-sides. I believe " cornigera,"
mentioned by Mr. Ryan, p. 61, to be urnigera
[a misprint. Ed.]. M. Naudin, to whom I
forwarded a branch sent me by Mr. Ryan, pro-
nounces it to be "le veritable urnigera." E.
alpina, E. angustifolia, E. cordata, and E. viminalis
come next ; but E. arnygdalina, E. coriacea, E.
reguans, E. rudis, and E. resinifera, seem not
much more hardy than E. Globulus, which is
killed at Loch Hourn by 15' or 20° of fro<t.
E. alpina grows only on Mount William iu
Victoria, at 4000 feet, where it is a bush 3
or 4 feet high ; aud at the Botanic Gardens,
Melbourne, it was only 12 feet high after twenty-
five years ; but in Scotland at Loch Hourn and in
Arran, it grows faster, aud the leaves are far larger
thau as described by Von Mueller, and of greater
thickness. One of mine had flower - buds last
autumn. I think that in all the species that
have flowered at Loch Hourn the buds show
for a year before blooming. E. cordata is perhaps
my favourite, its silvery foliage and handsome
growth are very striking. Yon Mueller gives it
as very dwarf, but miue grow quickly ; the
largest had 4 or 5 feet of its top blown off last
summer, and by November the loss was hardly to
be noticed. I have also many young trees raised
from seed ripened at Abbotsbury in Dorset.

Except the foregoing, I have failed to keep any
of the others through an average winter. I raise
the seedlings in a cold greenhouse, re-potting them
two or three times a year before the pots are tilled
with roots, and planting out early in summer vvheu
two years old. They require careful staking for
some years, aud the fastenings must be frequently
renewed, on account of the rapid growth of the
stems; and the bark being easily injured by rub-
bing against the stake, should be protected.
Huh i-i Birkbt <7. , 20, Berkeley Square.

IRIS STYLOSA.

The photograph from which fig. 35 has been
prepared, represents a plant of this species in bloom
in the open border at Tremough. I think that
readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle will agree that
this is one of the most valuable Irises we have.
Although the plant photographed is only about 18
inches in diameter, it is not unusual for us to gather
two dozen flower-buds from it at one time, and
scarcely a day passes but we use some of the blooms
for furnishing the flower-vases. The plant was in
bloom at least a month before Christmas, and pro-
mises to continue to flower until the end of
February. The pale lavender colour of its flowers
is very pleasing. Its perfume is also very delicate
and agreeable. In order to obtain the fullest
enjoyment from the flowers, they should be gathered
whilst in bud, and be allowed to open indoors.
This will prevent them being damaged by raiD,
storms, or slugs. S. QUI, Tremough, Penryn,
Cornwall, Jan. 20.

Florists' Flowers.

CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES IN FRAMES.
Whether these be intended for culture in pots,
or for planting out in borders, the plants will now
require some atteution. The soil should be kept
just moist and no more. Admit abundance of air

February 11, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

85

to the frames on all favourable occasions, it being
very unwise to coddle the plants, and thus
encourage weakly growth, and subsequently green-
fly. Draw the lights off entirely when the weather
is very mild, and war against aphides by fumigating
the plants as frequently as is necessary. Leaves
that have become yellow, or spotted, should be
promptly removed to the tire. Stir the surface-
soil to prevent it becoming overgrown with moss.
Moss is not so likely to grow, however, if the
plants are given sufficient fresh air ; nor is frost so
liable to injure the plants when the foliage as well
as the atmosphere is dry.

atmospheric moisture, the mttimgs may damp off.
Directly they are rooted, gradually accustom them
to the atmosphere of the house by removing the
glass, and ultimately place the plants on a shelf as
near to the glass as possible. When they are well
rooted, pot them off singly into small pots, and
return them to the same temperature until new
growth has been made, when they should be
gradually removed to cooler quarters.

Dahlias.
It is yet too early to commence propagating these,
excepting particular varieties that may be scarce.

Lilacs, aud the like is not so necessary. Late
white-flowering Chrysanthemums were dealt with
on p. 20 of the present volume, and I will now
merely mention two others not then mentioned,
viz., Princess Victoria, a good and pure white when
fully expanded, with stout, erect stems. The plant
should not be stopped late in the season, the buds
being longer in development than some other varie-
ties, and if stopped as late in July as are some
others, they do not form at all. Lady Lawrence
is the second, and is an old variety, pure white,
with large, broad petals, and a stout stem, and
this, like the preoeding, should not be stopped

Fig. 3">. -iris stylosa flowering in winter in i en hr at TREMorau, Cornwall, (see p. 84.)

To obtain strong flowering plants of the tree
or perpetual-flowering kinds, cuttings of such
varieties as Uriah Pike, Winter Cheer, Lizzie
McGowan, W. Robinson, Mdlle. Carle, Miss Jolifl'e
Improved, Mrs. Leopold de Rothschild, Reginald
Godfrey, Mrs. Moore, and Mary Godfrey, should
now be inserted in 4-inch pots. Use a sandy com-
post, and place a layer of sand upon the surface.
The small side-growths make the best cuttings, aud
as many as a dozen may be put into one pot, if
space be limited. Plunge the pots in a gentle
bottom-heat in a house having a temperature of 55".
A handlight or propagating-frame hastens the for-
mation of roots, if it be uot kept too close. If
they lie hastened unduly by too much heat and

In that ease, place the tubers in a gentle heat in
pots, pans, or even on the border of a fruit-house,
covering the roots with sandy soil, or cocoa-nut
fibre refuse. The succulent shoots, as they arise
from the base of the old stem, may be taken off
with a heel, and inserted singly in several pots.
Give these a temperature of b'5 . with gentle bottom-
heat, and do not keep them too moist. E. M.

Late-Flowering Chi:', - inthemfms.
The value of late-flowering Chrysanthemums in
January is well appraised by the gardener who may
have much decorative work to do in that month
aud early in the present one. Given a sufficient
number of these plants, the hard forcing of Azaleas,

later than the end of June or the beginning of the
following month.

Of yellow varieties, one of the best is King of
Plumes, of a rich, deep golden-yellow, belonging
to the class of laeiniated decorative varieties, of
light and graceful appearance, excelleut either for
cutting or as a plant. From its habit of carrying
about three blooms on each growth, it is admirably
adapted for furnishing vases, especially where long
light sprays are the more suitable, and these may
easily be had in good condition up to the end of the
month of January. W. H. Lincoln is another well-
known yellow kind, largely grown for late cutting;
the petals are rather stiff and erect, and the centres
are subject to damp, and also not to open nicely.

86

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 11, 1899.

The past two seasons 1 have grown another variety,
H. W. Rieniaun, almost identical in colour, and
equally late. The dower is altogether of a in. ire
retiued character, with broader rellexing petals, and
if it does equally well another year, I shall discard
the preceding variety.

Waban, which may also be grown as a late
variety, comes at this season of a pale lilac oolour,
inclining to white, with stout footstalks and long,
loose petals, slightly incurving at the tips— a good
addition to those already enumerated for cutting.
Its duration in a cut state is also much in its favour.

There yet seems to be lacking a good late crimsou
variety, although Cullingfordi may be had up to
Christmas. ■ One of the most promising of recent
introductions in this class is Julia Scaramanga,
in colour reddish-bronze, and when the plant is grown
as a bush, and stopped for the last time about
mid-July, it furnishes excellent flowers for cutting
in December and January, and for this season it is
a very desirable variety. Generally speaking, I
prefer for this purpose the plants to bo grown iu
pots throughout the season, rather than planted out,
some varieties, of which W. H. Lincoln is a notable
example, refusing to swell their buds, if planted in a
border or in pots under glass, after beiug lifted.
C. //. D.

rate heat, removing the boxes to a less warm pit
when strong shoots are started. A good-sized bed
of Tarragon should be planted annually.

Spear-Mint. — A quantity of the roots should also
be boxed at intervals, and treated similarly to
Tarragon.

Horseradish. — Let the Horseradish - patch be
trenched, in older to get out every bit of root ;
then select the most shapely sticks for use, and bed
them-in thickly ou a border, throwing litter over
them in hard weather. The best of the other
pieces of 1 foot long, and furnished with a crown,
should be planted at 1 foot apart on a new, heavily-
manured, deeply-trenched piece of land. Some
gardeners put the Horseradish-bed in some out-of-
the-way unsuitable spot, but in order to obtain good
sticks fresh plantings ought to be made in a good
position, at least once in two years. Sometimes the
gardener has to make use of small pieces without a
crown, and these maybe put down from 1'-! to 15
inches deep iu the soil.

( 'auliflowt rs. — Let theyouug plants raised iu heat
be well attended to, keeping them near the glass iu
order to prevent laukiness, and affording air when
possible. Later sowiugs, when they have made a pair
of true leaves, should Ire transferred to pots, putting
two plants in each, close to the sides. Let them bo
afforded a moderately light, rich soil, aud be sure
that they receive no check from cold. The first
size of pot used should be a 3-inch.

The Herbaceous Border.

PAP AVER UMBROSUM.
This fine annual (far finer when self-sown in
autumn ami properly thinned, than if sown in
spring) is not allowed by Index Kewensis to be a
distinct species, but is referred to a garden variety
of P. Rhieas. It is, however, described by E. Bois-
sier [Flora [Oriental™, vol. i., p. 113), under the
name of P. commutatum, Fischer, as a distinct
wild species, a native of Iberia aud Armenia. I
have for many years grown it iu the same bed as
the many -coloured varieties of P. Rhaaas, which
were first given to me as P. Hookeri, but differ in
no way from "Shirley Poppies." P. Rhasas and
P. umbrosum do not seem to mix, but each preserves
its own characters, growing and shodding soed for
the next year together indiscriminately, and 1
never saw au intermediate form. C. Wolley Doil,
Edge Sail, Malpae.

The Week's Work.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Baruet.

Parsli 1/ which has been wintered in cold frames
should be cleared of all decaying and old useless
leaves, and the spaces between the rows slightly
stirred with a pointed utiek or a hand-fork. Afford
air abundantly whenever the weather is mild,
removing the lights wheu it does not rain hard, and
keeping the glass cleau. If scarcity of leaves is feired,
sow seed in wide pans or boxes, and place iu gentle
heat, and when the plants are large enough, plant
them iu well-prepared boxes, at about 3 inches
apart, aud keep them growing in heat for a week
or two, then harden off and plant ou a warm border.
Parsley plants forwarded in this manner give a
good supply of leaves several weeks in advance
of plants raised from seed sown in the open ground.
To obtain the liuest results, Parsley should be
grown on a deep well-enriched aud somewhat moist
soil, the rows beiug sown '2 feet apart. When
gathering the leaves, especially iu the winter, only
lake a few from a plaut, aud these the nearly full-
grown ones.

Basil. — In iiio4 establishments the cook requires
a pretty constant supply of Basil, either dry or
green. If it is the fresh herb that is mostly wanted,
sow seeds occasionally iu pans, using a sandy soil.
After the plants are up, keep the soil moderately
dry, to prevent damping-off. The seed-pans should
be placed iu gentle warmth, and kept therein ou a
shelf near the glass.

Tarragon. — Let the supply of this herb be kent
up by placiug boxes filled with the roots in niode-

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Youno, Orchid Growor to Sir Frederick Wican,
Bai-t., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Co:loyi/iie sparsa and Others. — The first-named is
a dwarf, compact-growing kind, now about to
flower ; the flower comes from the centre of each
young growth. It is grown here in pans, suspended
on the shady side of the Cattleya-house, aud iu a
mixture consisting of one-third tibry loam, one of
Orchid-peat, audoueof sphagnum-moss, mixed with
a small quantity of finely-broken crocks. If any of
thes -■■ plants require more root-space or fresh materials
at the surface, both can bo afforded in a week or
two after the flowers have faded. The plants must
not be over-watered after being disturbed at the
root. C. barbata, which should be accommodated
in an intermediate-house, is now at rest, aud will
stand in need of very little water whilst iu the
dormant condition ; neither will Cudogynes ocellata.
corrugata, corymbosa, aud Schilleriaua. The last-
named is a warm-growing aud deciduous species.

The Potting of Masdevallias.— Many Masdevallias
need immediate attention, such are M. amabilis,
M. Ohelsoni, M. Harryana, M. iguea, M. Lin-
deni, M. Veitchi, &c., of the stroug-growing
species ; and M. ealura, M. iufracta, M. muscosa,
M. Reichenbachiana, M. Simula, &c, of the dwarf-
growing species. With few exceptions, Masdeval-
lias thrive iu a moist shady house, the temperature
of which is about 50° in winter, aud 5SJ iu
summer. Although a certaiu amount of fresh air
is esseutial, it ueed uot be admitted iu such volume
as iu the Odontoglossum-houso. Masdevallias
should uot be disturbed in cases where the rooting
material and drainage are in sweet and good con-
dition, and the pots or pans are sufficiently large.
Merely pick out some of the old material, aud
replace it with new. But in all other instances the
plauts must be turned out and re-potted. Iu the
operation of re-potting, remove as much of the
decayed material and dead roots as possible, aud
place the plaut in a pot of convenient size that has
been tilled with drainage material to within about
•2 inches of the rim. Put some moss over the
drainage before placing the plant, so as to keep
it open, aud then fill-in with good libry peat
and freshly picked sphagnum-moss, the latter
in the greater quantity. Sprinkle iu some finely-
broken crocks as the operation proceeds. It
will be necessary, for various reasons, to divide
large specimens, and iu making these up anew,
the operation should be commeuced at one side of
the receptacle, aud tiuished at the opposite, care-
fully spreading the roots, aud tilling iu the peat
aud moss evenly and firmly. Such dwarf species as
M. muscosa, M. Wagneriaua, M. tridactylites, &c,
are best grown iu suspended pans. Newly-potted
plauts should be carefully aud sparingly watered
through a tine-rose for some considerable time
afterwards, but those that have only been re-
surfaced may lie giveu a larger and more frequenl
supply.

Hpidehdrum [Nanodes) Medusiee should be
grown in suspended baskets in the Masdevallia-
house. It is now beginning to root freely, and
should be afforded some fresh moss. Nothing more
than this aud a few crocks is required as a rooting
medium. The plaut appreciates a frequent aud
copious supply of water, and may be immersed
almost daily.

PUione humilis, and others. — P. humilis will, in
mauy cases, need to be repotted. This species
may be grown equally well in pots or pans, but in
either case the drainage should occupy rather more
than two-thirds of the space. Over this place
some sphagnum-moss, and use a compost of one-
third fibrous loam, one of peat, aud one of chopped
sphagnum-moss, sprinkling in, as the potting pro-
ceeds, some finely-brokeu potsherds or coarse silver-
sand. Instead of inserting each bulb separately,
it is better to pot them in clumps ; but should there
be any single ones, twine the old roots round a little
moss so as to form a ball, which will serve to hold
it in the new sod. Afford only sufficient water for
the present to prevent the surface getting too dry, but
wheu the roots have made good progress, liberal
supplies may be given. This species may be grown
on a shelf near the glass in the Masdevallia-house
the year through. P. lagenaria aud P. Wallich-
iaua may soon be removed from that house to a
warmer and lighter position. P. maculata is
making steady progress on a shelf iu the Cattleya-
house. Iu each case water is very sparingly
applied, though ou no account is the material
allowed to become quite dry.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener, Droptnore, Maidenhead,

The Fruit-room.— The chief point in keeping
fruit late in the season is the maintenance of au
eveu temperature, aud the nearer this is main-
tained at about 40", the longer and better may the
fruits in season be kept. With a view to prevent-
ing the rise aud fall of the internal temperature of
a fruit-room, the structure should be kept as close
aud dark as possible, and if ventilated by a window
this should be well covered by several thicknesses
of sacking or similar material, and all work iuside
should be carried on by candle-light. If ventila-
tiou be necessary to sweeten the room, air should
be given when the external temperature corresponds
very nearly to that inside the room. Owlug chiefly
to the hot and dry summer of last year, fruits in
general have not kvpt so well as usual, aud with
Pears especially the ripening of reputedly late
varieties have been very erratic, aud in our case the
fruits are mostly over. Josephine de Malines, a
very late variety, was ripe early iu December, aud
others have been almost equally precocious, a fruit
or two from a young tree of Duchess de Bordeaux
being the latest to ripen. Apples should be looked
over about once in teu days or a fortnight, aud any
decaying or slightly-spotted specimens removed.
Sound fruits should lie carefully handled, otherwise
if only but very slightly bruised, decay soon sets
i l. I find this season that specimens of Cox's
Orange Pippiu from bushes growing folly exposed
ou all sides lost flavour, aud were soft and past
their best towards the end of November ; while a
few others from trees slightly shaded by some large
Elms, kept firm aud good a mouth later. Late
kitchen varieties, as Laue's Prince Albert, Braiuley's
Seedling, aud Hanibledon Deux Aus, are also
keeping badly.

Top-dressing the Strawberry beds. — Strawberry

plantations that are allowed to fruit for two or
more years should be assisted by the application of
a good mulch of short half- rotten manure at this
season. Assumiug that all runners were cut off
early in the autumn, but little cleauing of the
ground will be required, and only the dead and
decaying foliage and weeds need to be removed, and
of the latter the smaller may be left to be pointed
in with a fork an inch or two deep ; a firm soil
suiting the Strawberry, deep digging is a mistaken
practice. A little soot aud fresh lime in equal
quantities, mixed together, should be scattered
about the crowns of the plants for the destruction
of slugs, before the top-dressing of rotteu mauure is
applied. Where Strawberry-planting is contem-
plated iu spring, the site should, if not already
prepared, be deeply dug or trenched after the
ground has received a good dressing of mauure,
rotteu cow-manure buing that kind used if the
laud be light. Spring planting should only be done
when the laud has been occupied with other crops,

Febkuaky 11, 1S99.]

THE GA I? BE NE li S' C 11 li 0 NI (JL E.

87

the best time for planting being early autumn.
Where plants for a full supply are to be planted,
three situations should be chosen, so that the
fruiting season may be prolonged to as late a period
as possible. A border sloping to the south, and
backed by a high wall, for the earliest ; the more
opeu part of the garden for the main crop, and a
border sloping to the north, and shaded by a wall,
for the latest supply. Good early varieties are
Royal Sovereign and Vicomtesse 11. de Tlmry, the
the main crop consisting of the former ; Sir Joseph
Paxton, President, Veiteh's Perfection, Oxonian,
aud Elton Pine for a late supply.

Gharries. — The pruning and nailing of Morello
Cherry-trees will now claim atteution in mild
weather, for these trees growing usually on a north
wall the operation is not a desirable one in cold
weather. Any foreright shoots that were not cut or
piuched-back at the summer pruning should be
shortened to three or four buds, they will then form
fruit-spurs for next year's fruiting. Last year's
leading growths should be allowed to remain at full
leugth, the aim being to remove old wood wherever
possible, and lay-in the young to take its place.

winter ; L. vulgare has pale yellow racemes ; L. v.
Parkesii flowers a fortnight later, and is deeper in
colour; L. v. Watereri is by far the best variety
for depth of colour, length of racemes, and lateuess
of (lowering ; L. v. foliis aureum has beautiful
golden leaves, it should be planted facing north,
as the loaves burn when exposed to the sun.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holfor&, Westonbirfc,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Walks, — Nothing adds more to the comfort and
pleasure of a garden than good walks, and in order
to have them iu perfect condition they should Im-
properly made. Main walks should not be less
than 8 feet iu width, so as to allow sufficient space
for three persons to walk abreast ; aud these walks
should lead through the more attractive parts of
the garden, and to points where the finest views
can be obtained of the surrounding landscape. In
making walks, the soil should be dug out 18 inches
deep. Drains should be laid on each side and led
into main drains, the latter being laid iu the more
undulating parts of the ground, and where there is
sufficient fall to carry off the water rapidly. After
completing the drainage, place a 1-foot layer of
hard, rough stone on the bottom of the excavation,
then one -1 inches thick of smaller stones, breaking
these with hammers to make the whole linn ;
next add 2 iuehes of finely-broken stone, if the
latter be not obtainable, clay burnt into ballast is
a good substitute. Boll well to get it to an even
surface ; finish oil' by sprinkling eveuly 2 inches of
line pit-gravel. A walk of this kind should be
2 inches higher in the ceDtre thau at the sides ; on
falling ground let gratings and catch-pits be placed
at distances sufficiently near together to carry off
au ordinary rainfall without causing channels to
be washed out on the surface. The bottom of a
catch-pit should be 9 to 12 inches below the mouth
of the drain that carries the water away. The
edges of walks should be kept low, for if made
deep, they soon get uueveu, and they are always
unsightly. Walks that have become dirty should
have the surface-gravel removed, and if it have
been turned once before, fresh gravel should lie
used iu its stead. Always make the surface of a
walk made of pit-gravel firm by rolling after rain.

Cydonia japonica, <»<■ Pyrus japonica tthe Japan
Quince), and its varieties, are very suitable to plant
against a wall having a southern aspect. If it be
slightly sheltered to protect the early flowers,
which open in the middle of January, aud coutiuue
to flower till the end of March, so much the better.
When grown as bushes they open their Mowers
much later, aud are at their best iu the middle of
May. They succeed best in a retentive soil, and
those trained to a wall should be spurred back at
the end of the year. Pushes need only be thinned
aud made free from suckers. Of the varieties the
best are C. japonica, with bright orange scarlet
flowers ; nivalis, white ; Cardinale, rich cardinale
colour ; rosea, rose aud white ; Simoui, rich dark
crimson; aud Maulei, the latter a low-growing bush,
having small red flowers, aud handsome yellow
fruits.

Laburnum. — No garden is complete without this
noble flowering-tree. It is easy to cultivate, and
soon becomes established. The tree becomes estab-
lished more quickly if planted early iu spring, and
just before growth commences. I have discarded
the variety Adami on account of its being a loose-
growing tree, with flowers of a dull purple colour.
L. alpinum opens its flowers early, and are often
damaged by the frost ; L. a. pendulum has pendent
branches, and is very graceful both iu summer aud

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fjelder, Gardener to the Dowager Laky Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Acalypha lii*i>i<l<t {Sanderiana), — This singular
aud striking plant is very easily propagated by
means of cuttings, and if the tops of plants which
have become "leggy "are taken off and inserted in
small pots, filled with sandy soil, and placed in the
propagating-frame, or plunged in a hot-bed, they
will strike quickly, and when sufficiently well-rooted
may be potted into 4S's. Few plants respond more
freely to generous treatment than this one ; and,
although it does not appear to be at all fastidious iu
the matter of soil, a compost consisting of three
parts loam, one part leaf-soil, and one part rotten
manure, with sufficient sand to keep the soil open
aud porous, is a suitable one. After potting,
place the plants in a light positiou iu the
stove, and afford them several shifts as soon as Un-
roots have takeu full possession of the soil "I the
previous potting ; and iu the case of strong plants,
7-inch or 8-inch pots may be used for the final shift.
Treated in this manner, the leaves will grow to a
large size, and be retained down to the base of the
plant for a considerable length of time. The long,
pendulous flower spikes, which are produced from
the axils of the leaves, should not be allowed to
rest upon the surface of the soil, nor upon the
stage, or damping of the flowers will take place,
but the plants should be elevated on inverted pots,
so that the spikes may hang clear. Care should
also be exercised, when syringing, not to damp tie-
spikes overmuch, otherwise damping will follow.
The old plants from which the cuttings have been
takeu should be placed iu a moist, warm house, where
they will soon produce side-shoots, which may, in
their turn, be used as cuttings. The plants raised
from these side-shoots will not at first be nearly as
strong as those produced by the tops ; and as it is
ouly from strong plants that the best results can be
obtained, every meaus should be adopted in order
to grow them strongly, such as plunging them
iu mild bottom-heat, removing the flower stems as
fast as they appear, and repotting promptly. When
they have grown into strong plants, take oil' the
tops and strike them : lliese will form the founda-
tion for good plains.

Gloxinias. Seed of good strains may now be
sown in pans, or 4-ineh pots filled with finely-
sifted soil, consisting of equal proportions of loam
aud peat, with a liberal allowance of sand. Press
the soil firmly into the pots, making the surface
lex el, and upon this sowiug the seed thinly, and
slightly covering with sand, aud affordiug water iu
the same way as was advised for Begonia seed in G. C.
for January 28. Lay a piece of glass or paper upon
the pots, aud place them iu the stove, or iu a hot-bed,
and as soon as the seedlings are large enough to
handle, prick them ott'iuto pans, or intoS-inch pots,
filled with a mixture of three parts loam, one part
peat, aud one part leaf-soil, with plenty of sand,
and afford them a positiou near the glass in the
same temperature as before. Iu about three weeks
they will be ready to be potted singly into small
pots, and when the roots have reached the sides of
these, the plants may be transferred to 4-iueh or
5-inch pots, in which they may be allowed to flower.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strognell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Loxa,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

'J'/it Second Early /'< ach-ltouse. — Where provision
is made for a successional supply of Peaches from
trees planted iu various houses, the time is oppor-
tune for closing a house, with a view to its following
the first one started. In this case, the forcing may
be more moderate, and particularly if the trees have
been forced of late years. Assuming that the pre-
liminary work of cleaning the walls aud glass, top-
dressing the borders, dressing the trees with au
insecticide,) has been properly attended to, the
house may be closed, and the usual course of
syringing carried out, once or twice each day,
according to the state of the weather, affording an

on bright days, and closing early, so as to husband
solar warmth. Only sufficient tire-heat to raise a
luke-warmuess in the pipes should be employed at
starting, more thau this haviug a weakening effect
on growth. In the case of free-setting varieties, it
is advisable to remove all the buds on the under-
sides and back of the branches, and this done at
this period minimises the work of disbuddiug later
on. Shy-setting sorts had better be left until after
they have flowered, aud it can be seen what is the
amount of the prospective crop. Afford water to
the border if this has not been done, using it tepid.
Young and vigorous trees need only clear water ;
but old and long-established trees, if not gross, will
be benefited by applications of liquid mauure iu a
tepid state, and diluted to a safe strength.

The Propagation of rim j. — The present month is
the most suitable for raising Vines from eyes, the
plants thus raised being suitable for planting in the
borders or in pots. The shoots intended to furnish
the cuttings or eyes, that is, cuttings with but one
bud each, will have been heeled-in outdoors, with a
view to the retarding of growth as long as possible.
Au eye should be selected only from the best ripened
portions of the shoots, the lengths taken being
about 2 iuehes, a cut being made transversly and
squarely immediately above the eye, and a slanting
one at about li inch iu length, in the opposite
direction. Place the eyes, when made, firmly in the
soil, and just below the surface of the soil. It is
au advantage to allow a [callus to form under cool
treatment, as root action is theu more rapid when
the pots are plunged iu a gentle bark or hot-bed, or
over hotwatcr-pipes. This method is very desirable
when good-sized canes are required by the autumn.
When needed for planting purposes ouly, bottom-
heat is not strictly necessary in any stage of
growth. Pots of about 4 inches in diameter arc
usually adopted for Vine-eyes, which should be per-
fectly clean and well-drained. A compost, con-
sisting of two parts good turfy loam to one each of
leaf-mould and gritty material, or coarse silver-
sand or lime-rubble will be found suitable. With
this the pots should be filled, and iu the centre of
each put a pinch of sand as a base upon which the
eye will rest on.

Cul-back Pot- Vines for fruiting uext year should
be re-potted, and afforded a sunuy position in a
warm-house. They should not be subjected to
hard forcing. Should bleeding occur on auy Vine
from late pruning, touch the wound from which the
sap exudes with a red-hot iron till bleeding ceases.
In potting, use the best obtainable soil, and in a
fairly lumpy state, mixing with it burnt refuse and
charcoal, lime-rubble and leaf-mould, in small
quantities. Animal manures are better omitted,
bone-meal, or some special Vine-manure being
employed instead.

Vine-grajti* <j. — This is adopted in cases where
approved varieties cannot be introduced by plant-
ing. The better to enable the gardener to graft
his \ iocs, some conveniently-placed shoots of last
year should be retained at the time of pruning.
The method known as "bottle-grafting" is per-
haps the most expeditious and certain. Iu auy
case, a tongue is formed as in ordinary side-graft-
iug in scion aud stock, each tongue and cut surface
fitting exactly one to the other. This prevents the
disappointment that sometimes arises through root-
growth forming between the juncture of stock and
graft, and forcing them apart. Grafting should be
done when the Vines are on the point of breaking,
the scions being kept iu a dormant state till then
by being heeled-in in the opeu ground. Grafting
of unripe shoots by approach, or marching, is done
in the early summer mouths.

Orchard-house Trees that are still outside should,
unless the fruit is required late, be brought
indoors forthwith, the draiuage examined, and
repotting done where found necessary, and top-
dressing applied in other cases. If the orchard-
house is a cold one, the starting of the trees
should be deferred, so that blossoming may occur
at a safer period. Trees standing in unhealed
houses should still remain, protected by tree-leaves,
&c, and in mild weather abundant ventilation
should be afforded. The forcing of Pears, Cherries,
Plums, and Apples, must be of a very mild descrip-
tion, and during the flowering periods air should lie
afforded abundantly, so as to favour the dispersion
of the pollen. A miscellaneous collection of trees
demands much care till the flowering period is
passed.

ss

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 11, 1890.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants for
naming, should be addressed to tlie 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 beprinted, but
kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under-
tab to i"'!i for anj 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 be
of interest to out readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturist*.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to uwrk the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive ami select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, dtc; hut
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

Feb

:'t Meeting.

Ro> al Ho

V Ireland, J

.,,llinnn,v ., ,, | Royal Botanic Society, General
SATURDAY, I-kb. 11[ rising.

f United Horticultural Benevolent
Feb. 13 •[ ami Provident Society's Com-'
y niittee Meeting.

/"Royal Horticultural Society's Com-
mittees.
. . | National Rose Society's Committee
Meeting.

Horticultural Society of
Meeting.

THURSDAY, Feb. 16— Linnean Society, Meeting.

fRoyal Gardeners' Orphan Fund:
tj. ,- I Annual Meeting and Election of
' "i Pensioners, at Anderton's Hotel,
\ Fleet Street, E.G., at 3 p.m.

SALES.

f Roses, Gloxinias, Carnations, Aue
Feb. 13 < monss, &c., at Protheroe At
y Morris' Rooms.

Hardy Perennials, Iris, Lily of
the Valley, &c, at Protheroe &
Morris' Rooms.

/ Japanese Lilies. Continental Plants,
wpnvPsnAV r.v>, t ' Tuberoses, Stove and Green-
WEDNESDA^, Feb. 15 < ||mue maniSf Gladioli, &c, at

' Protheroe & Morris' Rooms

I Great Sale of 10,000 Odontoglos-
suin crispum and ooo Cattleya
auroa, by order of Mr. Thomas
Rounford, at Protheroe & Morris'
Rooms,

FRIDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

FRIDAY,

-)

Average Temperature Cor the ensuing week, dedueed from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 89°.

Actual Temperatures : —

London. — February 8 (6p.m.): Max., 55°; Min,, 49'.
Provinces. — February 8 (fi p.m.): Max., 53°, liath ;
Min., 43", Peterhead

Tub Comptes Rendw for Jan. 9,

Cultivation of cnntams a paper by Prof. Hugo

Monstrosities. * umi rt -il- i-

in: Vries, mi The Cultivation

of Monstrosities," in which the writer says : It
is known that the characteristics of some
vegetable monstrosities, such as Cockscombs,
are transmitted by heredity, and reproduced by
seed, as is likewise the case with Cauliflowers
and sundry other plants. But other monstrosi-
ties are usually considered as caused by accidents,
and as not bjing hereditary. Their rareness in
Nature renders systematic study difficult ;
usually, their structure is known, but rarely
their origin and growth. They are almost wholly
inaccessible for physiological experiments.

For some dozen years M. de Yhies has been
cultivating some of these anomalies, intending
to subject them to all the necessary examina-
tions. With the exception of virescence,
caused by parasites, they have proved heredi-
tary, and have produced by isolation and

selection races more or less perpetual, and
sufficiently rich in malformed individuals to
answer the required purpose.

In many of these cases, he now possesses the
fifth, sixth, or seventh generation even of
absolutely biennial forms. They are far from
being all entirely constant. They show no more
atavism than do the ordinary varieties, while
others are only exactly reproduced to the extent
of one or two-thirds.

The plants of these latter kinds, which revert
to the normal type, frequently preserve certain
monstrous characteristics, but in very varying
degrees. Often they repeat the abnormality at
the top, in the lateral branches. In perennial
plants the monstrosity may reappear after two
or three years. Occasionally, some plants seem
completely normal, but have not lost the faculty
of reproducing the monstrosity by means of
their seeds

The less in degree the fixity the more in-
constant — in other words, the more the
cultivation of monstrosities is dependent on
external conditions. Abnormal races, even of
wild species, require more care than the most
delicate decorative plants. It is the germi-
nation and development of the young plants
which need so much care. In sowing in a
greenhouse, and in pricking out the young plants
singly in healthy and well-manured ground, the
number of hereditary individuals can be doubled.
The fasciated variety of Dandelion (Taraxacum
officinale), which usually yields about thirty per
cent, of fasciated specimens, will, under this
treatment, produce eighty-six per cent, in the
first flowering season. Crepis biennis faseiata
in cultivation bears from twenty to thirty per
cent, of fasciated stems ; but it has yielded a
proportion of from sixty-four to eighty-five per
cent, under careful treatment, and a strong
dressing, which consisted mainly of eighty-
five \)st cent, crushed horn.

From a physiological point of view abnor-
malities may be divided into those which are
constant, precocious, or tardy. Constant mon-
strosities show no more atavism than do ordinary
varieties, and require the same care. Chrysan-
themum segetnm fistulosum, which has flowers
with long and tubular rays, produced in 1898
ninety-seven percent, of inherited forms among
two hundred specimens. Linaria vulgaris
"peloria," a plant but scantily fertile in 1898,
had in 1898 only four per cent, of examples
reverting to the normal type in a sowing of
eighty plants ; in the other specimens all the
flowers were perfectly peloriated. This form is
easily propagated from the radical buds.

Precocious monstrosities are those which
appear upon very young plants at the time
when they are ready to be pricked out. At
this period of their life a selection should be
made, only those being pricked out in which
the abnormality is well marked. Trifolium
pratense quinquefolium furnishes an example ;
the first leaf, simple in the normal species,
bears three leaflets in most plants of this kind.
In pricking out, all those plants which have
fewer should be eliminated, to ensure a crop
rich in five-fold leaves. If this precaution be
neglected, a very mixed sowing is the result.
The proportion of plants with from four to
seven leaves, depends in every case on exposure,
situation open to each individual, manuring,
and so on.

Tardy or late monstrosities only appear some
weeks or months after sowing. The fasciations
of Crepis are manifest after four months, those
of Taraxacum after five months, and the spiral
disposition of the leaves of the twisted variety

of Dipsacus silvestris are latent until the age of
four months.

The development of abnormalities is mainly
dependent on the individual strength of the
plants, especially on their vigour during the
first weeks of life. Selection of the best seed-
producers is of very secondary importance,
supposing that they are those of the right kind,
and that the seeds are not interfered with by
crossing with the normal species or with other
varieties.

A sunny situation is necessary, and a healthy
and well-manured soil (failing a good manure, a
dressing of 100 grammes of horn-shavings per
square metre). The best sowing is that effected
under glass in April, and the young plants
should be pricked out singly in small pans
(four inches) before being set in their places.

As regards the special care to be given to
each species, the normal duration of its life must
be considered. Annuals are richer in abnor-
malities in proportion a3 the seedlings are
precocious, and as the growth of the young
plants has been accelerated by the temperature
of a warm-house and full exposure to light.
As examples, may be mentioned Amaranthus
speciosus fasciatus and Tetragonia expansa
faseiata.

Biennials (Crepis biennis faseiata and Dip-
sacus silvestris tortus) are most interesting.
The fasciations and tortuous growth of thein
are the more numerous and developed according
as the life of the rosettes of radical leaves has
been longer and more vigorous before the pro-
duction of the stem. Too late sowing, a poor
or sandy soil, a cramped or shady position,
often renders all, or nearly all, the individuals
of a large batch raised from the best seeds
normal. An average yield of about twenty to
thirty per cent, is easily reduced to nought ;
but it may, on the contrary, be increased by
the precautions mentioned to forty per cent, in
Dipsacus, and even to from sixty to eighty per
cent, in Crepis. But over-manured specimens
succumb in winter, especially those of Crepis.
Prof, de Vries some years ago favoured us
with some seed from this variety, but none of
the seedlings, nor of their descendants, litis
ever shown the slightest sign of torsion.

Species optionally annual or biennial .ire
most variable ; for instance, Aster Tripolium
fasciatus, and Oenothera Latuarckiana when
fasciated. They yield good fasciations on the
biennial stems only ; therefore they should not
be sown too soon, and all those plants should be
eliminated which at the time of being set out
have already developed stems. The annual
stems increase frequently, but are weakly at
the summit.

To sum up, the greater proportion of ab-
normal plants, says M. de Vries, are highly
variable, oscillating between nought and often
from fifty to eighty pel' cent, as regards the
inheritance. Supposing that the seeds of a
well-established race are sown, the varia-
bility depends almost wholly on the external
conditions of its life, especially when young.
The more favourable the conditions, the
greater the proportion of abnormalities under
cultivation, and the more highly these latter
are developed.

Royal Horticultural Society.— The next
meeting of the Royal Horticultural (Society will
take place in the Drill Hall, James Street, Victoria
Street, on Tuesday, February 14. The various
Committees will assemble at uoon as usual, and at
3 o'clock the Annual General Meeting of the
Society will be held at the Society's offices, 117,
Victoria Street, Westmiuster, S.W.

February II, isno.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

80

Fig. 36.— passiflora "marc.aret wilson:" colour of perianth lilac-rose.
(From a drawing by the raiser, Dr. J. II. Wilson. See p. SI.)

Ill)

THE GABDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

[February 11, 1899.

The Linnean Society.— At the evening meet-
ing intended to be held on Thursday, February 16,
1899, .its p.m., the following papers will be read: —
1, "On the geuus Lemnalia, Gray, with an account
of the branching systems of the order Alegonacoa,"
by Mr. Gilbert C. Bourne, F.L.S., &c. 2, "On
some African Labiatai with alternate leaves," by
Mr. J. H. BriuciLL, F.L.S., and Mr. C. H. Wright,
A.L.S., &c. 3, " Report on the Marine Mollusca,
obtained during the first expedition of Prof. A. C.
ll.umoN to the Torres Straits," by Mr. James
Cosmo Melvii.l. M.A., F.L.S., &c, and Mr.
Robert Standen.

Horticultural Exhibition at Ghent.— The
programme is now arranged of the Exposition
Internationale d'Hortieulture de la Ligne Horticolo
L'Uniou, to be held at Mont St. Amaud, Ghent, on
April 30 to May 9, 1899. Many valuable prizes
are offered in the various sections. A large hall is
being constructed on the property of M. Alfred
Van Imshoot, whose residence, greenhouses,
orangery, and large garden, will all be used for
purposes connected with the exhibition. Gh. De B.

Meeting of the Ghent Chambre Syndi-
Cale. — At a meeting of the Chambre Syndicate des
Hortieulteurs Beiges at Ghent, on February 5, a
prominent feature was a line collection of cut-flowers
of Cyclamen Papilio from M. Draps-Dom, of
I ,aeken, near Brussels. These blooms were remark-
able for variety and beautiful colouring, and were
tastefully arranged with fronds of Adiantum. The
spreading turbinate forms pleased me more than
the wrinkled ones. M. Draps-Dom was awarded a
C'ertilieate of Merit par acclamation. M. Et>.
Pymaert staged Adiantum Bessonianum with very
wide fronds, full and healthy-looking ; the plant is
dwarf and ornamental. The Kentia (?) ornata
differs essentially from the other species of the
genus. Phceuix canariensis gracilis has narrower
folioles aud more elegant leaves than the type ;
Crinum Lauren tia; from the Congo is of dwarf habit,
with many sturdy leaves, the floral racemes short
aud firm, the flower white and unremarkable.
Authurium Andreanum hybridum from M. C.
I'etrick lias beautiful marbled spathes, and exceed-
ingly ornamental leaves. Odontoglossum carinife-
i uui has olive-brown segments, aud a white lip with
two violet-rose marks on the throat. 0. ramosissi-
mum bore two sturdy flower-stems with very tiue
flowers. These two species were from the houses
of M. L. de Smet Dovivier. A hybrid Anthurium
Seherzerianum raised by M. Louis de Smet has
a large spathe with a broad green spot at the tip.
Dracaena cainuefolia var., from the same exhibitor,
is a tine plaut. I would also mention a fine
variegated Citrus sinensis called Gloire de Mont St.
Amaud. The leaves and the fruits are finely varie-
gated ; aud the plant was well grown. Ch. dc B.

Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund. —We
would remind our readers of the annual general
meeting of subscribers to the above Fund, which
will In- held at 3 i'.m on Friday next, February 17,
at Anderton's Hotel, Fleet Street, E.G. Besides
the usual business aud election of pensioners to the
Fund, a new secretary will be appointed, in succes-
sion to Mr. A. F. Barron, resigned. From nearly
300 applications for this position, the Committee,
we believe, will recommend the appointment of Mr.
Brian Wynne.

Chrysanthemums, etc., at Ghent.— The
energy and zeal of the directors of the Royal Agricul-
tural a ii'l Botanical Society of Ghent are things to be
woudered at. We have before us the schedule of a
great exhibition of Chrysanthemums which is to be
held at the Casino of that city from November 12
tj 14. Djeorative plants, Orchids, aud fruits are
also to be exhibited. Foreign exhibitors are invited.
M. Fii'.kkxs, Coupure 135, Ghent, is the Secretary.

Stock-taking : January.— It is pleasant to
Hud we have begun the year with a favourable
commercial report ; imports aud exports both show
increased volume, iu many instances both in quan-
tity aud value ; the political outlook being fairly

clear at the same time, matters iu the import aud
export line have a somewhat rosy look— if only we
cau steer clear of suicidal strikes. The increase iu
the value of imports is placed at £1,287,315— that,
is to say, the valuo for January last year was
£39,929,291, against £41,216,600 for the past
month. From the summary of the values we take
the following brief excerpt :—

Imports.

1898.

1S99.

Difference

£

£

£

Total value

39,929,291

41,210,000

+ 1,287,315

(A.) Articles of food
and drink — duty
free

13,252,920

14,211,33]

+ 958,405

(11.) Articles of i" '1
& drink — dutiable

2,308,501

1,717,003

—051,41s

Raw materials for
textile manufac.
tures

8,802,081

9,020,501

+ 1,324,423

Raw materials for
sundry industries
and manufactures

3,576,909

3,120,391

—450,518

(A.) Miscellaneous
articles

1,377,214

1,170,841

—200,373

(B.) Parcel Post ...

130,881

100,372

+ 25,4111

Wheat, as may have been inferred from our weekly
averages, shows a falling oft' iu value represented
by £1S7,804 ; Barley increased by £155,153 ; Oats
went up some £ 116,594. Dutiable articles fell oil
as recorded — Tea going down £203,8315 ; Coffee
gave way £149,573 ; cocoa fell off by £95,207.
Hops from abroad amounted to £187,224, as com-
pared with £242,471 in January, 1898. Seeds,
Clover aud Grass, show a value of £50,713, against
£102,020 for the same period last year; pulp of
wood, for paper-making, was valued at £132,250,
against £157,058 for January, 1898 ; £318,949 re-
presents the value of hewn timber introduced, as
agaiust £303,810 last year; wood and timber, hewn
or split, was valued at £344,904, and last year's
figures were £313,553. In chemicals, &c, £34,443
represents the decrease ; oils went back £39,708. It
maybe noted that manufactured articles increased by
£152,732 ; raw materials for textile manufactures
gaiued by £1,324,423: a pleasant prospect for
manufacturers. By the way, it may be noted that
Australian wiue prospects are looking up, and there
would appear to be an early chance of a boom iu
Victorian viticulture — that is, if the growth of good
Grapes in what are termed cool localities should
prove the success anticipated. In that case great
increase iu the acreage devoted to Grape-growing
would soon have to be reported — connoisseurs in
France aud Germany having favourably reported
upon the qualities of the wiue produced in estab-
lished vineyards. From the section of the Trade
Returns devoted to fruit, roots, and vegetables, we
make the following extracts : —

Imports.

1S98.

1899.

Differ* nee.

Fruits, raw ;—

Apples ...

. bush.

295,551

303,058

+ 7.507

Grapes ...

•• „

1,001

1,433

+ 432

Lemons ...

,,

Oranges ...

,,

s7_',M'.'

[,244,209

+ 371,120

Fears

,,

3,000

7,33:!

+ 4,272

Plums ...

,,

?,

77

+ 74

Unennmcratad

,i

50,411

1)6,040

+9,599

Onions

„

413,7i'.i

529,753

+ 80,001

Potatos

. . cwt.

739,955

50,976

—688,979

Vegetables, raw,

UtirliU-

merated ...

..value

"£75,0P.l

£109,905

+£34,SS0

Here are some surprising figures, the exact value
of which, cultivators and salesmen alike, quite
uuderstand, as also do those who, in the depth of
wiuter, can purchase excellent fruit at a reasonable
price. As above noted, the

Exports
of British and Irish manufactures show a good
front. Their total value is £20,347,234, agaiust
£19,231,404, for January, 1S98, au increase of

£1,115,830. The largest increase is to be found in
"Ships new, not. registered as British," £545,190
(this is a new item iu the Trade aud Navigation
Returns). This is followed by £356,496, the
increase in machinery and mill-work ; £259,325 in
raw materials ; £59,205 for apparel aud articles of
personal use; whilst £22,963 represeut the in-
creased value of articles of food and drink exported.
We may note here that there is shown a gradual
improvement in the get-up of the printed Returus,
making matters generally easier of comprehension
by those more especially interested iu it.

Botanical Magazine.— The plants figured
and described in the February number are the
following ; —

Oentiana Burseri, Lapeyrouse, t. 7637. — This is
a noble species, nearly allied to G. puuetata, and
having much of the appearance of G. lutea. It is
a native of the Pyrenees, and of the Western Alps.
The specimen figured is from the garden of the
Kev. Canon Parker, of Upton Cheyney, Bristol.
The roots collected by this gentleman were grown
in paraffin-tubs cut in halves, and filled with leaf-
mould, and the dibris of a faggot pile. In this
they thrive.

Elceagnvs macrophylla, Thuuberg, t. 7638. — A
hardy shrub, introduced from Japan by Mr. Maries.
It has broad, oblong-ovate leaves, greenish (lowers,
and oblong red berries, the size of a Sloe. The
whole plaut is densely covered with flat, star-like
scales.

Demlrobium capillipes, Reiehenbacb, f., iu Gard.
Citron., 1807, p. 997, and 1880, vol. i., p. 743;
t. 7039. — A yellow-flowered Burmese Deudrobe,
with small roundish-flat flowers, aud a broad,
roundish lip, with reddish lines, spreading hori-
zontally from the base of the lip.

Ceanothus integerrimm, Hooker and Aruott,
Liudley in Gard. Chron., 1856, p. 36, c, ic. ; t.
7640. — A native of the Sierra Nevada of California,
with cordate ovate entire leaves, aud many-flowered,
much-branched inflorescence. It flowers annually
in the arboretum at Kew.

Epilobium obcordatum, Asa Gray, t. 7641. — -"As
a rock-garden plant it has few rivals." It is a
native of the Sierras of California, at elevations of
8000 to 1 1 ,000 feet. The flowers are of a violet-rose
colour.

"The Fern Bulletin."— A quarterly journal
devoted to Ferns, aud published at Biughampton,
New York State, by the Fern Bulletin Company,
now enters on its seventh volume. It is specially
devoted to hardy North American Ferns, their
appearance, habits, aud cultivation. The journal,
we are glad to see, has been so successful that its
size is to be increased. Mosses also receive atten-
tion. The editor, to whom communications should
be sent, is Mr. Willaru N. Clute, Botanic
( iarden, Broux Park, New York City.

Grape Professor Burvenich.— The January
number of the Bulletins d' Arboriculture, dbc, con-
tains a coloured plate and a description of a new
Grape, supposed to be au accidental seedling from
the Black Hamburgh or Fraukenthal. The leave s
are more deeply cut than those of Black Hamburgh,
and the berries are almost as large as those of Gros
Coltnar. It was discovered in tho nurseries of
MM. Gauthier Freres, at Soignies. It would, if
we may judge from the illustration, make a splendid
exhibition variety.

JYREE. — This is the name given to the prepared
leaves of a certain Indian plant which has beeu
for some time past recommended as a substitute for
Tea. According to the Journal of the Agricultural
and Horticultural Society of India (July to Sep-
tember, 1898), the real name of the plant is not
yet made public. Wonderful properties are
claimed for it, mostly as a curative of aches and
pains as an exterual application ; and internally
as a decoction for calming the nerves, and allaying
headache and neuralgia. Further, it ensures
freedom from all the evils attendant on excessive tea-

February 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

91

drinking, since it induces sleep and cures insomnia.
Jyree is prepared in several ways, according to the
special purpose to which it is to he applied ; fre-
quently it is used in combination with tea. If
only a small part of that which is claimed for it
proves to lie true, aud the plant can he produced
in sufficient quantities, Jyree should prove a
valuable acquisition both as a drug and as a
beverage. In the meantime, a little scientific
scepticism is prudent.

Oodeypore. — Mr. T. H. Storey sends us his
report for the year 1S97-9S on the gardens of His
Highness Maharana Fatah Sinuhjj, of Oodey-
pore. The gardens have been kept in good order
throughout the year to the satisfaction of H.H. the
M.u i akan A. The report contaius a list of plants suit-
able for hedges iu that part of India, among which
Iuga dulcis is specially recommended. Glorioea
superba formed a splendid bed, surrounded by a
protective fence of Opuntia vulgaris, the spines of
which deter tho deer and other animals from
touching the plant. In the fruit-garden, the
parrots are au ever-present nuisance, entailing the
employment of watchmen night aud day. The
report on the menagerie and its inmates is amusing,
but our limited space does not permit us to do
more than mention it.

Seed Catalogues.— We have received the
Index *t milium in litiiio Musei Parisiensi colli c-
torum, which is a list of seeds collected iu the
Jardin des Plantes at Paris iu 1S9S, and available
for exchange with other establishments. It is a
rather formidable document of twelve or thirteen
quarto pages of four columns each. It is to bo
wished that the modern name of the botanic garden
here called " Brivatensis,"' had been given. We
confess to ignorance as to the whereabouts of tho
Hortus botauicus brivatensis. Can it be Brest !
From Malta also we have been furnished with the
seed catalogue of the Argotti Botanical Gardens,
Floriana, Malta. This is also a voluminous
production, signed by Professor F. Dbbono.

Nelumbium. — The November number of the
Tokyo Botanical Magaeim contains amongst other
articles au elaborate paper ou the rate aud mode of
growth of the leaf and of the flower-stalks of
Nelumbium. Mr. Mivake concludes that the
different rate of growth for day aud night cannot
be explained by the operation of one or two factors
only, but must be determined by careful observa-
tion aud experiment. The conclusion of the paper
will be given in another issue.

The Lantana Pest in Mysore. — To Mr.
John Cameron, the Superintendent of the Mysore
Government Gardens, is due the establishment of
"Lantana, Limited " iu Bangalore. It is incorpo-
rated under a bye)- law of the Bangalore city
Municipality, providing that the growth of Lantana
within muuieipal limits shall be kept under control.
Mr. Cameron drew attention over a year ago to
the extensive growth of Lantana Camara in Mysore,
aud observed that while the shrub served a useful
purpose if kept in its proper place, it should only be
admitted with much cautiou, and to a very limited
extent where the soil is already fertile. It is a
hardy plant, and its seeds are spread far aud wide
by birds. Like the Prickly-Pear, too, it takes a
good deal to eradicate it. An attractive and pro-
tective plant, it makes a good bid for popularity ;
but the tiat has gone forth, and for the future its
growth is to be limited in Bangalore. No doubt
similar measures will probably be taken in other
parts of Mysore, so that we may expect soon to see
"Lantana, Limited," opeoing numerous branches,
and throwiug out "suckers aud seedlings" as
vigorously as the plant itself does. Planlimj Ouinion,
cited in " Indian Gardening."

Warner's King alias D. T. Fish Apple. —
We learn from the Wiener Illustrirte Garten Zeitunq

that at a meeting of the Horticultural Society of
Vienna on December 18 last, the merits of this
variety of Apple were discussed by several gar-
deners present, and Herr Hitijo MrLLER said that

the tree succeeded admirably iu Lower Austria,
and on that account, and the fine, juicy, well-
flavoured fruits its distribution should be encouraged.

Alnwick Castle Gardens.— We learu that
Mr. Geo. Wvthes, the well-known able head gar-
dener to the Duke of NORTHUMBERLAND, at Sion
House, Brentford, will, iu addition, take over the
management of the ducal gardens at Alnwick
Castle, whilst continuing to reside at Sion. The
actual carrying out of the work at Alnwick
will be entrusted to Mr. Full well, who has
hitherto been his principal foreman at Sion. It is
an onerous undertaking, aud one that is, doubtless,
uot intended to be permanent, and we wish Mr.
Wythes every success. Mr. Harris, hitherto
and for many years the head gardener at Alnwick,
is leaving to take a business.

Fire at the University of Geneva. —The
Semaint Horticoli gives details of the terrible fire
which, on the night of December '25, destroyed the
buildings of the University at Geneva. When we
mention that the Delessert Herbarium was burnt,
we have said enough to excite the sympathies of
botanists. Professor ChODAT's personal herbarium
is lost, as well as the Mediterranean plants of
Hi' HER, and various collectious lent by the Museums
of Brussels, Zurich, and elsewhere, for the purpose
of comparison.

Juniperus virginiana. The Red Cedar."

— There are in gardens several forms of this plant,
some more beautiful than others. We should be
obliged if any correspondent would inform us
whether such beautiful forms as J. virginiana,
Schotti, Chamberlaini, Bedfordiana, arc more
tender than the ordinary forms. A specimen re-
ceived from Florida, through the kindness of E. B.
Thomson, Esq., approximates very closely to
the form known as Schotti. Prof. SAKOENT, we
believe, is inclined to separate the Florida form as
a distinct species.

New British Fungi.— Messrs, 11. T. Sopprn
and C. CkossLANH reprint from the pages of the
Naturalist the descriptions of a number of species

found by them in West Yorkshire, together with a
plate illustrative of their structure.

PROF. Caruel. — The number for January of
the Nuocn Giornalt Botanict Ttaliano, contains a
portrait of Prof. CARUEL, whose death on Dec. 4,
I89S, we had occasion to announce. Prof. Cari i i.
had edited the new Italian .Journal of Botany for
twenty-two years, and was the first President of
the Italian Botanical Society.

"One and All Gardening."— A copy of this

useful annual for 1899 is now before us. It is
edited by Mr. E. O. Greening, and published at
3, Agar Street, Strand, W.C. The contents of the
prcseut issue include papers by the editor, by
Messrs. T. W. Sanders, U. T. Fish, T. S. Cooper,
B.A., 11. Rider Haggard, and many other writers,
including Mrs. Dr. Black well, Mrs. M. <;. Fawcett,
and Miss M. E. Braddou. Some of these articles
deal with the charms and benefits to be derived
from gardening, others are cf a practical nature,
and for the value and reliability of these the names
of the authors are a sufficient guarantee. There
are many illustrations, among them numerous
portraits, and some pretty views of gardeus.

Fruit from the CAPE— The Union Steam-
ship Company's vessel Scot has brought 361 boxes
of Peaches anil 59 boxes of Plums from the Cape.
All arrived in excellent condition, and realised fail-
prices. Particular attention is drawn to the fact
that some of the fruit was sold iu Manchester on
the day following the ship's arrival in Southampton.
Sixteen boxes of Peaches and forty-four boxes of
Plums were consigneel to Havre for sale there.

Australian Fruit. — The general manager of
the Orient line of steamers — to which it would
appear has now been delegated the carrying of fruit
from the Australian colonies and Tasmania to this
country —has informed us as to the dates of sailing of
their fruit-ships during the coming season. The first

ship to start is the i 'u ;co, which is to leave Sydney
on February 18, and is due at Tilbury on April 1 ;
tho Oruba departing from the same port on March 4,
aud arriving ou April 15 ; the Oritur., March IS,
arriving April 29 ; the Omrah, starting on April 1,
and arriving May Pi; the Austral, leaving on
April 15, aud arriving at Tilbury on May 2!) ; and
the last of the ships, the Oj'hir, leaving ou April 2'.),
and due here on June 12.

Lincoln Postage-stamp Catalogue— Mr.
W. S. Lincoln, of 2, Holies Street, Oxford Street,
W., has just issued tin1 twelfth edition of bis stamp
catalogue. The new volume is thoroughly up-to-
date, is larger and fuller than its predecessors, aril
contains over 4000 illustrations.

Dinner-table Decorations at Lord Salis-
bury's.- --Ou Monday last the occasion of the
Premier giving a dinner-party, at his London resi-
dence, to seventy-five of his adherents in the Upper
House, the table was effectively decorated by
Mr. Norman, bis Lordship's head gardener, iu the
present fashion of employing one or very few kinds
ot llowcis. It is a well-undcrstooel rule at dinner-
parties that the plants or cut-flower devices shall
not obstruct the view of the seated guests across
the table, and this was strictly adhered to ou
the present occasion. Shallow pans or saucers,
measuring 1 foot in diameter, were placid together,
so as to form groups 3 feet in leugth, alternated
with a solitary one. When tilled, the width of
each would be about 1 foot 8 inches. Iu every
case -prays of Calauthe Veitchi, of a deep rose
colour, formed the chief decorative material ; aud
those being inserted in the damp sand with which
the pans were tilled, fell gracefully outwards.
Iu a few instances, flower-spikes of ( 'o-logyue
cristata, Cypripedium insigne, auel Lily of the
Valley wen- placed amoDg aud beneath the
Calauthe flowers. The groundwork of the pans
consisted of Adiantum Farleyeuse, lavishly cm-
ployed, spreading over the table-cloth 0 in. be-yond
the paus, aud effectually hiding them from sight.
In the seven circular groups the leaves of Grevillea
lobusta were used, together with the fronds of the
Adiantum ; and a species of Cyperus was used at
the top, together with Lily of the Valley. As a
material to contrast with, aud tone elown the excess
of pink eolour, sprays of Asparagus plumosus were
stuck in amongst the Calanthe blooms. The general
effect was pleasing. We understood that the whole
of the materials wen- produced at the gardeus at
Hatfield.

Publications Received.— Tin Australian
Fruit Garden, by J. G. Heron. (Geo. Eobertson &
Co., Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, and
Londou.) A useful handbook, forming No. 8 of an
Amateur Series. Annual !!■ /<"/'' of tin Queensland
Department of Agriculture, for the year 1897-98. —
Bulletin from the Laboratories of Natural History
hi' I If State University of Iowa, vol. iv., No. 4,
comprising papers I., on the Iowa Sedges, by B. T.
Cratty; and II., Descriptions of American Ure-
dme.e, ii., J. C. Arthur, aud E. W. D. Holway. —
Bulletins Hi and 18, United States Department of
Agriculture, Division of Entomology, the Hessian
Fly iu the Uuited States, by Herbert Osborne, auel
miscellaneous results of the work of the division. —
Boletim da Sociedadt Broteriana, xv., 1MIS. — Bui-
lt lino tli /In Socield Botanica Italiana, Dicembre,
1898.

Notices of Books.

Cypripedium, Selenipedium, and Uropedium: "

Monograph, comprising descriptions of all the

Species, Varieties, auel Hybrids existing at the

present day. By F. Desbois.

Sr/CH is the title of a very voluminous work

exteueliug over 544 pages, compileel by M. F.

Desbois, of Auderghem, Belgium, a gentleman well

/. i ypriiKdiuins, Lcur Monographic, F. Desbois, Gond.
Imprimerie : E. Meyer, Van Loo] Hue- Ue- Flaudre, 66.)

92

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febri-ary 11, 1S90.

known for the interest which he has taken in
the genus Cypripedium during a great number of
years. It should be said at the outset that the
work is esseutially for gardeners, as little attempt
is made to bring it iuto any kind of botanieally
classified order, the names and descriptions being
generally taken as originally published, and with-
out any attempt being made to decide as to
whether they are different from previously de-
scribed species or varieties of the same parentage.
Thus with prolific crosses such as C. x Harrisi-
auum, iu which practically the same thing has
been described under different names, no attempt
is made to reduce them to synonyms or varie-
ties, but each appears under the title given to
it by its raiser or desoriber. That many of the
hybrids of the same crosses are dissimilar there is
uo doubt, and in a work destined for gardeners, it

Philippinense, qui est le premier en date et qui Ton
doit preferer."

The work commences with au explanation of the
three groups iuto which the author divides his
subject, viz. :— 1, Groupe de la region temperee
(Cypripedium Caleeolus, &e.) ; 2, Groupe des
Selenipediums ; 3, Groupe orientals (C. barbatum,
C. insigne, &c. ), and under each group some good
general remarks ou culture follows. Then comes a
chapter on hybrid Cypripediums, followed by an
enumeration of all published species and varieties,
to each of which are appended extracts from the
original descriptions, with references and such
remarks as suggested themselves to the author.

The work is interesting iu mauy points, and
especially iu demonstrating the fact that most of
the important work of importation aud hybridi-
sation has becu done from the British Isles, aud

AUTUMN versus SPRING -SOWN
UNIONS.

The year 1S9S owing to the drought, was a
very trying season, and during the summer and
early autumn many of the kitchen-garden crops
suffered greatly. Onions were more or less attacked
by maggot and mildew. Remedies were tried, but
they proved of little or no avail after the grub
aud mildew had once attacked the plants. The
attack was worse on spriug-sown Onions than on
those that were sown iu autumn and were trans-
planted to their permanent quarters during March.
This was no doubt due to the latter having become
better estal dished.

The crop of spring-sown Onions, wheu harvested,
was anything but a satisfactory one ; but the crop
of autumn-sown Onions did capitally, and the

FlG. 37.— A CROP UK A.UT0MN-SOWS ONIONS, l.;UAL 10 12 T OSS PER ACRE, i::; J'.VN IN WREST PARK GARDENS.

may be convenient to place each under its original
name, aud trust to the descriptions which follow
to indicate the affinities to plants bearing other
names.

The old generic names Cypripedium and Seleni-
pedium are adhered to, though why Oropedium
should be introduced to carry Uropedium Lindeni,
now generally admitted to be nothing but a form
of Selenipedium caudatum, it is not easy to per-
ceive, except for the purpose of carrying out the
plan of the work to include all published names.
In dealing with species in other parts of the work,
too, there are a few contradictions. For example,
on looking for 0. Philippinense we failed to find it
in its place, but on turning to its synonymous
names, <'. kevigatum and ('. Roebeleni, we find
them elevated to specific rank, and full descriptions
given. Probably the omission of the correct
specific name in its proper place is an oversight,
for the author says tinder C. kevigatum, " Cette
belle espece est aussi connue sous le nom de C.

iu indicating the great variation to be found in
some of the species and hybrids. Iu dealing with
varieties of C. insigne, more than eighty recognised
and published varieties are included. What a revela-
tion it would be if all these could be got together,
and iu flower at the same time ! and what a
slaughter there would be if all which were not fur-
nished with well-defined fixed characters, should
have to lie destroyed ! The work is well printed,
and contains no more errors than are almost inevit-
able in such a book — chiefly printers' — and readers
will doubtless lie as glad to see it as M. Desbois
must have been to see the last sheets of his proofs,
which had been a source of his continual care for
many years. Unlike many other similar publica-
tions, this one is brought well up to date ; and it is
also well illustrated.

The work will ever reinaiu a monumeut of the
patience, cleverness, aud zeal of M. F. Desbois, aud
we heartily recommend it to all interested in the
Cypripedium.

maggot never managed to make its aptearance
amongst them. I would strongly advocate the
sowiug of a greater proportion of the Onion crop in
the autumn, as I believe they will better resist
the maggot and mildew than those sown in early
spring.

If it is not convenient to sow seeds during the
autumn, then I would procure some shallow boxes
in January, or early iu February, aud sow in them
such varieties as Ailsa Craig, Cranston's Excelsior,
&c. ; raising the seedlings indoors, and when pro-
perly hardened off, trausplauting them into the open
ground. This method gives very satisfactory results,
and the risk of the ciop being attacked by maggot
and mildew is reduced thereby to a minimum. [See
also Mr. Woodgate's letter ou p. 7(i iu our last
issue. Ed.]

The late Mr. Mackenzie, who was gardener at
Rosehatigh, near Iuveruess, writing to the Gar-
den,! rV Chronicle about forty-live years ago, remarked
that transplanted Onions frequently escaped the

February 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

93

grub in gardens whore the spring-sown crop is greatly
iujured by it, and he gives the mode by which
he obtaiucd a superior crop of sound Ouions from
autumn sowings. He also states that noue of the
plants was attacked by the maggot ; whereas, the
spring-sown Onions were nearly all destroyed by it
in the same kind of ground, and to which the same
kind of manure had been applied. I herewith send
you a photograph (which we reproduce in fig. 37,
p. 92) of a square of autumn-sown Onions grown
in the garden here last season. After weighing
the Onions and measuring the ground, we found it
to represent a crop of about 12 tons per acre. Geonje
MacKinlay, Wrest Park Gardens AmpthUl.

Home Correspondence.

CAPPARIS SPINOSA.— Fiom an answer to a coi-
respondent in the issue of the Gardeners' Ohronicli
for February 4, it appears worth while, on the
matter of culture, to refer to a specimen of this
plant in the Cambridge Botanic Garden, which
is decidedly handsome both in flower and out of
flower. It is planted ou a low rockery, between some
houses standing 9 feet apart, and against a green-
house wall, where it is covered with a frame-light
in the winter, chiefly to protect it from excess of
moisture ; some light litter is also thrown over
the crown, and this is quite sufficient to protect
it from any probable degree of cold. The plant is
much hardier lhan might be supposed, though its
chief requirement is sunlight aud warmth during
the period of growth. It will live in a pot, but its
cultivation is then doomed to failure. Our speci-
men cannot be less than .ri feet acioss when fully
developed in the summer. L.

CLEMATIS VITALBA. — It may possibly he of
interest to Mr. Divers to know that the old and
correct name of this beautiful climber is Traveller's
Ivy. It is so called in all, or nearly all, ancii nt
botanical works ; and 1 was pleased to notice that
this old name has been revived in one of this year's
garden catalogues. When it is considered how-
very similar the capital '1' is to the 'J,' and
how easily a 'v' may be written as an 'o,'the
corruption of 'Ivy' into 'Joy' becomes at once
apparent. J. V. B., Stamford. [The teim
Traveller's Joy seems, says Mr. J. Britten, in
English Plant-Names, to have been invented by
Gerard, who speaks of its "decking aud adorning
waies aud hedges when- people trauel, and there-
upon I have named it the Traeuilers Joie." Gerard,
739. Has the old English Joie been corrupted into
Ivy ? Ed.]

TIBOUCHINA (LASIANDRA) MACRANTHA IN
CORNWALL.-— One of the most interesting plants
growing out of doors at Menabilly is Lasiandra
macrantha ; at the present time (Jan. 25) it is in
perfect health, with fully expanded flowers or
flower-buds on every growth. The foliage is look-
ing as fresh as if it were growing under glass.
Owing to want of room in the houses, I planted
out last spring, from a 16-inch pot, a shabby-
looking plant about 5 feet high. It was planted in
the border amongst other shrubs, in the ordinary
loamy soil to take its chance. Up to the present
time the weather has had no injurious effect on it.
On Jan. 24 occurred the most severe frost, and
this was only 0°, but the winter has been remark-
able for a great number of stoims. Should this
plant prove hardy in Cornwall, it will be a great
acquisition to our flowering shrubs, the colour of
the flower is such a contrast to the other winter-
flowering shrubs. A few feet distant is a la'ge
Camellia, with a great number of fully expanded red
flowers; also Rhododendron calophj Hum, covered
with its beautiful white sweet-scented blooms.
Then, glancing at the thousands of Snowdrops and
Narcissus to be seen, it makes one think that spring
is far advanced. II'. H. Bennett.

ARCHONTOPHCENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA (SEA-
FORTHIA ELEGANS). — Amongst all the species of
Palms grown in our gardens, there is none more
graceful or useful than this one. It is no unusual
tiling to see it carrying three or four spikes of
flower or fruit. A grand specimen could have been
seen a short time ago in the gardens of Malvern
House, Nottingham, carrying a crop of handsome

reel fruits. It is suitable only for lofty houses, anel
the plant at Malvern House is about 30 feet high,
and it carried fourteen well-developed leaves. The
species cau be propagated from seeds, anel plants
thrive either planteel out or in tubs and pots, if
alTordeel gooel fibrous loam, leaf-mould, and sand,
with good drainage, aud abundauee of water when
growing. G. Burrows, Th />•// Gardens, King's
Norton .

SNOW AS A PROTECTION TO ROSES. — Most
cultivators of the Rose like to have a covering of
snow on their favourites, to mix with the February
rains. Snow, if it fall to a depth of 4 to Cinches,
affords a constant anel regular degree of protection
against frost, such as we have in this country, pro-
tecting the plants against sudden thawing, that crip-
ples aud kills our Roses, rather than frost. It is thus
that snow is like wool in retaining heat. More cr
less snow in the months of January and February is
good anel safe for our Roses. There are no devices
of man so safe anel cheap as snow as a protector.
Kir-tree boughs, heaps of straw and tree-haves,
bracken, short litter, anel, worst of all, long grass,
may all lie useel to cover the Rose-bushes ; but if
these he used in excess, or not removed in gooel
time, they bring enfeeblement or disease. With a
covering of snow on their heads [which soon melts.
El'.], and a mulch, and manure over the roots,
Roses winter safely enough in this country ; and
it is safe to say that more Hoses are lost by being
coddled than are killed by frost. With ordinary
foresight anel skill iu pruning and training Roses,
there is little danger thai the plants will be
spoiled or broken down by tin- weight of the snow
testing on them. My memory carries me back to
the time when, to ease Conifers of heavy falls of
snow, we used to shake the boughs with pole s,
carefully wrapped round with rags, to save them
from injury ; a necessary kind of work, but one that
is never required by Roses. 1>. 'J'. F.

THE MILD WINTER WEATHER.— Whe n leading
the paragraph headed "The effects of the mild
weather,'' in your issue of 28th nit., the reference
to Apple Deux Ans reminded me of having recently
read of the same Apple in the early minutes eif this
Society. I epiote the paragraphs containing the
name, but without comment, except that the
minutes were remarkably well kept, and, I have
every reason to believe, tiny are thoroughly to be
lelieil upon.

Extiact ficin Mil ul. . I M: mIi It. IS22.
"Dr. Duncan, Senr., invited lln numbers to view uron en
Apple-tree in his garden :,t Bt. I ei nord - (Fdinburgh), perfect
specimens of last yi ar's huit, 1 eh nping t<i the variety km u n
l.y the name of Pi mine « I «- deux anm s."

Fxlioct frcm Miiute • i June i". isl;.

"Dr. Duncan, Behr.. who, at ;i foimer ting of the

Society, pave an account of an Ap] le-tri e in Install!, n i . arirg

1 lie l'i innie ite deux anus, j nted at this meeting tun

Apples taken from that t in Die morning,' and growing

wit Iifn a few inches of each other, t.ne ol these Ajples being
tlie in iln.r nt blosscm nt ilie \ i ,M LS21, and the other of
blossi in ol the present year,

— /'. Murray Thomson, Sec, Rcyal Caledonian
Horticultural Society.

THE winter aconite.- My thanks ate due to
those of your correspondents who have so kindly
supplied dates of the first flowering of the Winter
Aconite. Their observations may be divided into
two classes, viz. (1), Those which were made either
in the North of England or in .Scotland ; (2), Those
made in localities south of the Trent. Taking
first the four observers from the north, we find that
their dates range between January 9 aud 10,
whereas only three out of the six residing south of
the Trent are able to give any dates at all, the rest
stating that at the times they wrote (January 13 to
18) the Winter Aconite had not yet come into
flower. Indeeel, Mr. Batters reports that at Gilling-
ham, in Norfolk, even as late as January IS, he could
not, altera careful search, discover "either flower
or foliage." My own observations of the first
flowering of the plant iu question which have been
made in a backward district iu Hertfordshire, now
extend over eleven yeais. rlhe average date for
this period comes cut as January 22, anel the range
from January 7 in 1898, to February 11, in 1891 —
or exactly five weeks. This year the fiist blossom
opened on January IS, which is four days in advance
of the above average. So that taking mild aid
eold winters together, the time of flowering this
year is probably by no means unusual. But when
we come to consider the exceptional character of
the last four months of 1S98 as regards temperature,
it at first sight appears surprising that the Winter

Aconite should not, in most parts of the country,
have made its appearance above ground at least a
fortnight earlier than it did. For in r.oue of the
eleven years I have had the Winter Aconite under
observation, was the ground in the same four months
anything like as warm as this year. It is enly when
we call to mind the drought of the previous
summer and early autumn, that we begin to n alise
what a retarding influence it must have had upon
the growth of this and many other winter flowering
plants. It should also be remembered that iu the
southern half of Euglaud this drought was much
more severely felt than in the northern counties ;
while in many parts of Scotland there was prac-
tically no drought at all. E. M., Berkhamsttd.

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE.— In reply to
Mr. Burbidge's enquiry ou p. 62, it may In- stated
that of the large number of this useful Begonia grown
here, probably not more than oneplantiutwohiindred
bears female flowers, and those only one or two
upon each, a comparatively small plant now iu
flower carrying three. M. Lemoine, from whom I
purchased it. gives B. socotrana and B. Dregei as
its parents. B. B. May, Dyso,,\ Lam Nurseries.

CROSSBEAKS.— I notice in the issue for the
28th ult. your remarks on these birds. At
Battle, in Sussex, these birds are numerous this
season, aud they were noticcel as soon as the Fir-
cones were fully grown. Sometime elapsed before
I could make out what caused the Fir-cones to fall
when green, but after watching for a time, I dis-
covered the crossbeaks were the cause. I have not
observed any other damage done, so the birds are
not mohtsted, which is not the case with the haw-
finches, which are plentiful hereabouts. Win.
('a, inn, /:■////< Abbey Gardens.

THE LATE MR. JOHN LEE.— Of the memorable
twenty-one who formed the Executive Committee of
the International Horticultural Exhibition and
Botanical Congress in 1866, sixteen have been
called away by death, that number being made
complete by the departure of the veteran John Lee.
(If the building committee, Messrs. C. Lee, J.
Gibson, J. Standish, and H. J. Veitch, only the
latter is alive. The arrangement committee, who
dealt with the disposition of the several subjects,
Br. Hogg, and Messrs. Gibson, Eyles, and Moore,
have all passed away. Of the twenty one who
win- photographed ou the terrace of the Star and
Carter Hotel at Richmond, only Sir Daniel Cooper,
Bart. (Treasurer), Dr. M. T. Masters, and Messrs.
W. Bull, Edward Easton. W. Paul, H. J. Veitch,
and R. Beau (Assistaut Secretary) survive. This
■ xhibition was a great horticultural event, and
allusion to the departure of anyone who took an
active part in carrying out its details is justifiable.
It. D.

RCSE QUEEN MAB. — Your correspondent,

"A. P.,'' on p. 52, remarks that this Rose is not
a good grower. With us it has been from the first
an excellent grower, making strong, sturdy little
bushes. Like other Roses of its class, it blooms
tco freely to make long or straggling shoots ; but
in this consists one of its great merits as a bedding
Rose. We were interested to read "A. P.'s"
remaiks upon the variety Granel Due Ernest
Ludwig, as up to now we have not been able to
meet with any one who has flowered it sufficiently
iu this couutiy to pass an opinion on its merits.
Has "A. P.'' seen it iu blcom iu England or else-
where'.' Apropos of the name, the variety, we
believe, was raised in Germany, aud came to us as
Grossherzog Erust Ludwig; if the name is to be
translated into French (for which, however, we see
no necessity), should it not be Grand Due Einest
Louis? Wm. Paul t!: Son, Wall ham Cross.

THE GLASTONBURY THORN.— In the front
garden of a large villa residence at Ealing, appro-
priately named Glastonbury House, is a good-sized
specimen of the early-flowering variety of Crataegus
oxyacantha, which bears the name of the Glaston-
bury Thorn. The tradition which sets forth its
origin is well known, anel is not worthy serious
consideration. But the fact remains, that there is
a siDgularly early variety of the common Hawthorn
which does blossom oner near Christmas Day, orsoon
after this popular festival. Some have said that
it is in flower thus early only in the particular
locality iu which it is stated to have originated,
and that when removed to a different, and especially
to a colder climate, it loses its precocity to a great
extent. The specimen at Ealing has been planted

94

THE GAB DENE MS' C HBO N I OLE.

[Fkbbttary 11, 1800.

probably twenty or more years, but it still retains
its early-flowering character; aucl not only floes it
produce blossoms, but leafage also long before its
relative, the common Hawthorn. Change of climate
and locality, therefore, dues not appear to affect
tins peculiarity of early flowering. A'. D.

Law Notes.

JOBBING-GARDENERS' ANNUAL LICENSE.
We briefly noticed in our last issue an important
prosecution instituted by the Inland Revenue
authorities at Manchester, having reference to
gardeners employed by nurserymen to do work in
private gardens.

We now publish au account of what has since
taken place, kindly sent by Messrs. W. Clibran &
Son, of Oldiield Nurseries, Altrincham :—

"We now write to give you the later information
named by our Mr. Brown, in re The Inland
Revenue Board v. Treeby. Mr. Hockin, Treeby's
solicitor, suggested that a deputation of the trade
ami jobbing-gardeners should wait ou Sir John W.
Maelure, M.I'., lay the case before him, and ask
if he could assist in getting the decision set aside.
Mr. Councillor Collens, Edge Lane Nursery, Stret-
ford, therefore arranged with Sir John for an inter-
view; anil after consultation with various mem-
bers of the trade, a deputation waited on him on
Sal in day the 4th.

Mr. Collens, in introducing the deputation, re-
ferred to the copy of the Act, and pointed out that
the decision against Mr. Treeby. in his opinion, was
a misrendering of the Act, and that it was not in-
tended by the Legislature to inflict a hardship,
such as the present case brought about on jobbing-
gardeners, nurserymen, and florists, as neither
master-gardeners nor nurserymen were mentioned
in the Act as such. Cooks, confectioners, and
waiters, were included under the head of servants
liable to be taxed, but it was well known that none
of these, when employed commercially, ever took
out licenses. The same remark applied to park
keepers and gardeners in the employ of corpora
ticus. Licenses were never taken out for these
men, yet they were as much liable under the pre-
sent decision for taxation as jobbing gardeners in
the employ of nurserymen or Horists.

Mr. II. Watkins (of Messrs. Wm. Clibran & Son,
All rincham), on behalf of his firm, protested against
the decision recently given as being contrary to the
spirit of the Act. As although gardeners, and
under-gardeners, among other servants, were speci-
fically mentioned in paragraph :l, section 10, of the
Act, as being liable for taxation, the meaning; it
was contended, had reference to servants employed
solely in a private capacity, and not to include men
employed by master or jobbing gardeners, who
depended upon it for part of their trade.

In further proof it was pointed out that the only
tradesmen named in the Act were those using or
dealing ill horses. These tradesmen were specifi-
cally named, although coachman, groom, stable-
boy and helper in stable arc also named ; and if
Parliament had intended that tradesmen com-
mercially engaged in gardening were to obtain
licenses for the men they send out to take care of
villa gardens, that intention would have been made
clear iu the Act, It is only by Subsection 4 of
Section 10 that commercial gardeners can be
brought in, and this same sub-section would have
covered the tradesmen with horses without special
mention of them. The fact that the Act does
name those commercially connected with horses
anil does not mention those commercially engaged
with gardening is a proof that it was intended that
the one class should be licensed and that the other
should not.

The Act provides that livery-stable keepers must
keep books of account, Had it been intended
that jobbing gardeners be licensed, it would surely
have provided that they, too, should keep books of
account, a» the number of men they employ varies

so much from season to season, and in different
parts of the same season.

It was mentioned that one man freque»tly
attended fifteen or twenty places in a month, and if
he was not himself licensed by his employer, it
was contrary to the spirit of the Act that twenty
licenses should be taken out by customers for one
man's service. Parliament never inteuded industry
to be taxed in this way, and that it would only be
by applyiug the words of the Act in a different
meaning that the trade could be so taxed. The Act
had been passed thirty years, and it was the first
case of its kind, thus proving that the officials of
the Inland Revenue had not for that length of time
construed the Act in the way the present decision
placed it.

In conclusion, it was hoped that Sir John Maelure
would use his utmost influence to have set aside a
decision so damaging to nurserymen generally.

Sir John William Macltjre said that, per-
sonally, he had no objection to the luxury of
coachman or gardener, but he looked upon them in
their private capacity as luxuries, and as such he
was prepared to pay for them. He quite agreed
with the remarks put before him, and thought it a
very unfair and improper thing to tax a working
gardener who was not in a continuous appointment.
He would like the deputation to appoint two of
their number to meet him in London, and he would
take great care that they had an interview with the
most important people on the subject, as bethought
they had a grave charge to bring against the per-
manent officials : and he would take care that the
statements so put before him should be heard, aud
he would accompany them and see if their request
could be refused, which he did not think it could be.
He would put them in communication with the
very best authority, and give them his heartiest
support throughout in support of their cause. He
would be in the House of Commons on Tuesday or
Wednesday (7th and 8th inst.), aud suggested that
no time should be lost, as the sooner the matter
was brought to a satisfactory conclusion the better.
If they did not succeed, it would not lie his (Sir
John's) fault,

A vote of thanks was cheerfully accorded to Sir
John W. Maelure for his patient hearing, and his
kind promise of support.

After Sir John \V. Maelure left the room the
matter was talked over by those present, and it
was arranged that Mr. Councillor Collens and Mr.
Treeby should wait on the Hon. Baronet at the
House of Commons on Tuesday, and lay the case
before tin- Hoard's officials.

Notice of appeal has been given, and if Mr.
Yates' decision be appealed against, the trade
generally should subscribe to the cost, unless the
case be taken up by the Nursery and Seed Trade
Association."

Fasciated Cyclamen, — Dr. Masters exhibited specimens of
Oiis not unusual phenomenon of several flowers with leaves

nn the same stem.

SOCI ETI ES.

PEOPLE'S PALACE HORTICULTURAL.

February 1.— The annual meeting of this Society was
held on the above date, the chair being occupied by C. E,
Shea, Esq.

For a Society which has been in operation only a few years,
it has made astonishing headway, and seeing that its members
must of necessity be drawn from densely-populated districts,
where the growth of plants can be made only under unfavour-
able conditions, the obvious conclusion is that it supplies a
want which is gladly welcomed.

The annual report by Mr. C. E. Osborn, the Secretary, se1
forth that during 1S£S, j"20 adults and children joined the
Society. The monthly lectures have been well attended.
Four shows were held during lSOS. The grand total of entries
for the four shows was 1272, in 218 classes ; the prize-money
paid was £100, in addition to several medals. The .juvenile
section (prizes are offered for children at all the exhibitions)
is being reorganised and extended, and a schedule of prizes is
being prepared, to be competed for by children in the elemen-
tary schools. It is proposed to supply each child with a
plant suitable for cultivation in a pot, which will be pre.
viously potted, and in addition a packet of seeds will be given
t«> each child. They will be required to pay one penny for the
two, and the children will have object-lessons in potting, &c.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

January 31. i-n~.nl: Dr. M. T. Masters (in the Chair) ;
Mr. Veitch, Mi, Hennett-Poe, I>r. Mullcr, Rev. W. Willcs,
Professor Farmer, Mi'. Michael, Professor Balfour, Mr. A.
Sutton, Rev. Professor Henslow (Hon. Secretary). Visitor,
Mi. L. Sutton.

PotatO'gntftiny.— Mr. A. Button read an interesting paper
"On the Result! of Grafting arid Hybridising Potatos with
Tomatos." the substance of which was given in these columns
in our last issue.

Hollyhock Disease.'- Leaves attacked by Puecinia inalva-
cearum were received from Mr. E. Molyneux, a fungus which
has proved fatal to these plants for many years.

Eucalyptus up.- Dr. Masters showed a [lowering specimen
of E. cordatus, growing i'i the open in Co. Down; and of
E. Globulus, grown for forty years in Leicestershire.

Professoi Halt observed that on the cast of Ross-shire

several plants characteristic of the Riviera thrive well,
in consequence of the amelioration of the climate by the
proximitj of the Gulf Stream.

( tipripedium.- -Dr. Masters also exhibited a blossom of a
Cypr pedium, m which the two normally coherent sepals were
free.

DEVON AND EXETER GARDENERS'.

February 1.— At a meeting of the Society, held on the
above date, a paper upun " Liliums and Lily of the Valley "
was read by Mr. James Mayne, gr. to the Hon. Mark Rolle,
Bicton.

Interesting anil useful remarks were made upon the culti-
vation of L. longiftoruin ami its varieties, L auratum, L.
giganteum, L. speciosum, &c. In the case of outdoor culture,
Mr. Mayne reminded bis hearers that Rhododendron ami
Azalea beds offered very suitable sites and conditions for
Liliums, but if tall-growing Lilies be grown together in beds,
it was necessary to screen the surface of the ground with
such a plant as Mesembryanthemuiu cordlfoUum in order to
prevent the sun from unduly drying the land. L. candidum
must be re-planted when the flower-stem has withered it
circumstances make it necessary to move the plant, as this
species is more hi less active throughout the j ear.

A south-westerly aspeel is the ideal one for beds of Lily of
the Valley.

WARGRAVE AND DISTdlCT GAR-
DENERS' MUT UAL IMPROVE MENT.

February 1. — Mr. W. II. Scot! read a paper on " Hardj
Fruit Culture for Pleasure and Profit."

He took the in dance of a person having a piece of ground
for fruit culture only. Mr. Scott described liow a piece of
ground intended for the cultivation of Fiutt-trces should be
planted with Apples, Pears, Plums, ami Cherries, standard,
pyramid, and cordon trees, and the relative advantages ol
each were described. Advice was given respecting Currants,
Gooseberries, Raspberries, and Strawberries; as these could
be planted between the rows of large trees, it was essential
that choice varieties and free-croppers be chosen. The market
garden method of culture was described. M my of the members
took part in the subsequent discussion. At. the instigation
of the chaiiinan. practice in judging plants was undertaken,
and created an amount of interest amongst the members.

BRISTOL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT ASSO
CIATION.

1 i it; < ,\nv 2.— The fortnightly meeting of the Society was
held on the above date, Mr. W. A. Garaway in the chair.
A lecture was given by Mr. A. Moore-Sara, of Stoke Bishop,
on " Spores and Seeds, and their Germination."

In an interesting manner, he showed the origin, formation.
and stages through which a Fern spore passed until fertllisa
tion was complete, and a Fern plant eventually established.
Treating of seeds, he also, in the same way, described the
formation of a (lower, the fertilisation of the seed, and subse-
quent germination, and explained the main points of differ-
ence between the germination of spores and seeds, illustrating
the whole with blackboard diagrams. The lecture, though
necessarily a little technical, was much appreciated, and the
hope was expressed that Mr. Moore-Sara would again favour
the Society With a paper.

HAMILTON HORTICULTURAL AND
FORESTRY ASSOCIATION.

Febhi'ary 3. — The first lecture under the auspices of this
new association was delivered ,.n the above date in the
Y.M.C.A. Institute by Mr. Dew ar, Curator of the Botanic
Gardens, Glasgow. The Rev. S. M. B. Paterson, President
of the Association, occupied the chair, and there was a good
attendance.

The lecturer doalt with the practical si.le of a gardener's
life, and gave shrewd and sound advice as to the method to
be employed in perfecting their art. Theleeture was made

February 11, ISflO.]

THE GAfiDENEliS' CHRONICLE.

95

bright .ami interesting by sevoral biographical sketches of
famous gardeners who had made their mark in different
spheres of gardening work, &c.

At the close a discussion followed, in which tl hairm.in

and several members took part. Altogether, a good beginning
was made, and the Association bids fair to have a long and
useful career. /. M.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

February 6.— The annual general meeting of the National
Chrysanthemum Society, which took place at St. Stephen's
Hall, Royal Aquarium, on the above date, was a credit to the
Society.

The feeling has latterly been far too common th it the
fellows and members cannot meet for the discussion and
transaction of business without exhibiting a spirit of
division and squabbling unworthy of everyone concerned.
Monday's meeting will in large measure dissipate such an
idea, that perhaps in the near past has not been totally devoid
of justification. There were quite sufficient items of inflam-
mable nature upon the agenda (including various propositions
for the alterations of rules) to have provoked a serious con-
flagration, but they did not. No more suitable gentleman
than C. B. Sum, Esq., a vice president of the Society, could
possibly have fulfilled the duties of chairman, and his influence
and example had untold effect upon the conduct ol* business.

total receipt . including cash in hand at last audit, and the sum
of £47 15». .til., drawn from the reserve fund last March, of
£987 10s. Id. Expenditure included the sum of £541 6s. for
prize-money and medals, being a few pounds more than in
1S97, and the usual management items, which have been
considerably curtailed.

Following the reading of the report, Mr. Shea (Chairman)
made a speech, in which he said licit il had been stated in the
Press that the popularity of the Chrysanthemum was on tin-
wane. As a flower for cultivation, ho thought it very unlikely
thai this would be the case for very iii.ui> years yet. Thai it
blooms dining autumn so unsparingly, ami is so easy of cul-
tivation, that it is the poor mans flower equally with the
rich, places the Chrysanthemum on a throne from which
it will with gnat difficulty be ousted. But there was the
exhibition point of view. The stern evidence of figures must
be given attention. The present balance-sheet showed a
falling off from members' subscriptions of about £-JS, ami a
lesser sum from the fees paid by affiliated societies. Unless
this downward tendencj was stopped, there was no seeing
its end. The management expenses have been curtailed, but
there wasa degree bej I which this could not he carried.

Then followed a very astute pica foi union among the

members, and particularly that the meeting then commenced
should he characterised bj business-like behaviour. It had
l»eii said that, unlike other flowers, the Chrysanthemum begoi
in its votaries a certain dogr i i bativeness, Perhaps

Fid. 38.

NEW APPLE. LADY IMf.KINKTON.

Recommended an Award of Merit by the Royal llorlieultur.il Soc ety' i Frail and \ il ible Commitl n .tin tl

Much resembles lm « s Seedling, Ira flesh is softer, andn ngre, tide to tin palate

Exhibited from the Sonthport and C'hurchtown Botanic i lardi n

REPORT OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
We had first, to listen whilst the minutes of the lasl annual
meeting were read by the Secretary, ami after this to the
reading of the annual report of the Executive Committee,
which took a considerable time. This reporl has been posfe.l
to all members of the Society, and il is not necessary to repro-
duce the text hero. The usual optimistic tone of previous
reports is again apparent in that lor the past year, and the
committee in the first paragraph, no doubt truthfully say,
"I'lie close of the year 1898 finds tin- National Chrysanthe-
mum Society still at the head of those societies having for
their object the cultivation and exhibition of some particular
flower." The work of the Classification Committee in regard
to the classifying of doubtful incurved varieties, and tothe
drawing up a list of too-inuch-alike varieties, is described.
The announcement is made that the Directors of the Royal
Aquarium Company have promised to contribute an addi-
tional sum of £7". towards the prize schedule of the November
show. The lighting of the building has been improved, and
members of the. Society will, in future, be better able to
obtain refreshments at moderate charges. Then there is
reference made to the report of the " Sites " sub-committee,
in favour of the Crystal Palace, to the awards made 1
novelties, tlie need for a supplementary catalogue, ami to the
Conference that was held in October upon the "rust"
fungus. The report concludes with thanks to the President,
Sir Edwin Saunders, for his continued interest in the Society
and gifts of prize-money, and to nil other donors of special
prizes

Till: BALANCE-SHEET
showed that the annual subscriptions for the year bad
amounted to £270 15s. Gd. ; Foreign members' subscriptions,
£7 lis. Id. ; Royal Aquarium Company, £330; affiliated
societies' medals, certificates, &c, £66 lis-. :t,/. ; affiliated
societies1 fees, £62 4* iW. ; and oilier smaller items, making a

the -I'll ■ fragrance of lie Rose had some cfTect in soothing

the mind of excitable persons; bui Mr. Shea thought the
members had an excellent opportunitj thai evening to show
(hat its meetings might be held just a- quietly as thos Df
other societies.

The adoption of the report ami balance-sl t wat then

formally proposed by -Mr. Seward, and seconded by Mr. A.
Outraru. Mr. .1. W. Moorman had some remarks to make
before the motion was put to the meeting. He thought they
might be proud of such a balance-sheet as was presented. A
year ago the balance-sheet showed a false balance, which,
however, the members derided to erase, and they then dis-
charged their liabilities by abstracting a sum from the reserve
fund. The year 1898 was, therefore, commenced without a
balance at all, but he was pleased to say that they now had
£18 Os. lid. in cash at the hank, and there had been con.
tributed in various ways during the real i sum of £20 6s. lrf.
The Society had, therefore, made a prolit in the year of
£38 2s. ti.'., notwithstanding that they had paid more money
in prizes than ever. He was now satisfied that the Societj
could not be rightfully charged witli expensive management.
Mr. Moorman then criticised various items in the assets,
Which were, however, satisfactorily explained subsequently by
the Secretary. This veteran cultivatoi concluded his speech
by declaring that he had been growing Chrysanthemums
since 1865, ami he was unaware of the least sign of diminished
enthusiasm for the flower.

Speaking to a question raised by Mr. Simpson, a plea was
made by Mr. Newell that the medals and certificates be per

mitted to affiliated societies al a less pr than obtains. The

Society would do well not to seek for so large a profit upon
them.

The report and balance-sheel were then carried by
acclamation.

Mr. Berri.lge nexl proposed a vote of thanks to the auditors,
which was res] led to by Mr. A. E. Stubbs.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS,

on the proposition of Mr. Bevan, seconded by Mr. II. A

Needs, Sir Ed. Saunders was enthusiastically re-elected

President, amidst general satisfaction that at then [eofeightj

In.' years, sir Edwin still maintains his interest in the flower.

The position of Treasurer, rendered vacant l,y tin unexpected

"' "I"' Mi Ballantyne, was filled by the appointment.

of'Mr. C. E. Wilkins (Swanley). This was dm n the motion

of Mr. .1. \v. Moorman, s nded by Mr. II, .1. .1 s.

Mr. Percy Wnterei was unanimously elected to the chair-
manship of the Executive Committee vacated by Mr. T. \V.

Sanders, Messrs. Bevan and M man hai ing been nominated

to the Vice. Chair, the appointment was deferred for decision
by ballot. Mr. C. Harinan Payne was reelected Foreign

C sponding Secretary.

1,1 the eleel i general secretary, there was another

surprise for the uniting, it had been freelj stated during
the preceding week that there would he at least tntee nomina-
tions to the position, it was not so, and I he present Secretarj
Mi. Richard Dean, was unanimouslj re-elected with a con-
siderable sh,,w of enthusiasm.
Mr. Berridge was elected auditor on the motion of Mr

MO email, se, r I l,y Mr. Rundel (I.i- ster), in lie- place ol

Mi A. F. siiihiis who retires.
Nominations were then taken foi gentlemen to serve on

Executive C mittee. There were, altogether, fomteei w

"iheisi essary. Al n subsequent momenl the following

gentlemen were declared elected : - .Messrs. E. Beckett

'' Gil , H. J. Jones, A. Outrain, D. 1!. Crane, w. Davey)

Mr. Kenyon, T. W. Wilkinson (Royal Aquarium Company)'

•'■ WcKi rchar, C Blick, .1. W. S ons, Alex. Wrighl

G Walkcr.anrtW. A. Sturrock. Th der of the names was

thai given in the poll by the number of votes recorded.
Tie' nomination of Mr. T. \v Wilkinson was proposed in

■"'• •'■ W. M man. who spoke with appreciation of the

mannei in which the Aquarium Company hid now met the
s iciety, ..mi expressed ins belief that Mi. Wilkinson would i„.
able to render materi il help. The balloi in the easeofthe
i ' ' chair was in ravonr of Mr. 'I'. Bevan .

Upon the proposition of Mr. Moo,, nan, b idod by Mi.

D. B. Crane, il was resolved to eleel Mr.T. w. Sanders a vice-

1'" ■"'' "' "I the Sonny; ami on i ),.- a 0I Mr. Bevan,

econdedbj Mr. J. H. Witty, alifobonorarj Fellowship ol the

Society was, ferred nj the same gontl an, in recognition

ol' lii . sen ices as i hainnan or tin Executive Committee ami
in other capacif ies

AMENDMENTS To |,ti i:s
Tocon ultimate tin agitation rhatcertain members of the
''i"1'' have indulged in during lasl yi ir in regal i to tin
awarding of (he Society's medals, various alterations to the

rules wore pro 1 bj Mr. W. Wells These were, in effect,

'" pmveni the Society I i giving m idals to other exhibits

than Chrysanthoi ni, and to tins- only when tin exhi

bitshavel n tin- btmi-fdt propjrtj of the exhibitors tor a

period "i three nths.

111 i I"' aim ill en pop isd by Mr. Wells, the

Chairman Buggestc 1 that Mr. Wells wo., id proposes now rule

embodying the restriction wished, in n i ., i , however,

neither tho i In otherwas dour, as Mr. Wells failed

lo secure any support A technical addition !•> Rule IIP.
proposed by Mr. R Dean, was by leave withdrawn.

nd (o Kale rX. Privileges . an an mini ml wi, 1,

commended by the Executive Committee, apparently with a
vie« i" prevontin ■ delegate fan affiliated societies from

taking any part in the voting al the annual tings of the

Hi"' Society. Members of afflliab I societies (especially

Mi. Rundell, Leicester) were, lion iver, ..,, the alert, and in
"i'1 end. the recommendation was nol only rejected, hut words
wen inserted in tin rule positivelj stating the rightof the

deli Mies to attend and vole at such i tings. Securing (Ids

triumph, the nexl recommendation of the Committee In the
eflecl that the delegate should bj a bmi iber to the

socii tv he represenl - was acci pt 'd ,i lyfully.

Rule \l\. was modified in order to insert (he regulation
that the Schedule Revision Committee he appointed at the

first, n ting ol I he Executive Coinmitt held after the annual

general n t ing.

Kiile XV. will now provide that tin election oi judges will
1 ffected by means of voting-papers.

Knle XVII. was made to explieitlj declare that the Finance
Sub-Committee shall be elected annually after the lust meet-
ing of the Executive Committee held after the annual general
meeting.

This, hide. I the business of the meeting, sax,- flu- usual

\oi,'s of thanks and election of new t bers, There were

probably about 150 members present, in spite of the very
disagreeable character of the weather. St. Stephens Hall
afforded more than ample room for the company, but although
certain efforts were made by the management lo warm the
building, the intense cold ami draught was such that mem-
bers could not retain their seals without die gn atesl discora
foil, ami tin two heating-stoves were tin- centres of group
during the whole proceedings, which lasted al I two-and-a-
half hours.

Enquiry,

Marechai Niel Rose.— 1. Is there a permanent
cure for canker in this variety? 2. What is the
cause (probably fungus attack) ? 3. Are Hoses
best planted below the graft, so as in time to get
on to their own roots ? This is a question upon which
we should lie obliged toour rosarian correspondents
if they would favour us with their opinion.

96

THE GARDENER S' CHR 0 Nl CL E.

[February 11, 1899.

Answers to Correspondents.

# —

Aoalypha Sanderi (hispida) : Chas. B. The plain
will take little or no harm for ten days' sojourn
iu an apartment if tlie temperature does not fall
below 50°.

A Non-fruiting Quince : P. C. P. Under cer-
tain unfavourable conditions of growth— as for
example, under the shade of large trees, or on
the north side of a wood, where, owing to the
lack of sunshine, the wood would not manure,
or a very wet soil where growth being late ex-
tending into autumn, the same thing might occur.
Given age, say 10 to 12 years, and a sumny site,
the Quince fruits satisfactorily.

Antirrhinum Seedlings : Novice. If the plants
are not spoiling iu the boxes, wait till the middle
or end of the next mouth before planting them
out of doors. If much crowded, transfer them
where standing thickest to other boxes. Afford
a hardy kind of treatment

Begonia x Weltoniensis : Novice. The old plants
will be the best to rely upon provided they have
been suitably treated, that is, cut down after
the stems had matured subsequent to flowering
last summer and autumn, and kept dry in a
temperature a little higher than that of the
greenhouse. A place under the plant-stage is
suitable for them. Iu the present month shake
them out of the old soil, and re-pot them in equal
parts of loam, peat, and leaf-soil, with plenty of
sand, and grow them on iu an intermediate house
until they flower. Iu warm districts the plant
does well out of doors till flowering time. Cuttings
may be strnck-iu March or iu July, and the early-
struck ones maybe grown iu a frame or iu the
open.

Books: II. J. J. The Propagation and Improve-
ment of Cultivated Plants, by F. YV. Burbidge.
Published by Blackwood and Sons. A note
addressed to the Secretary of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society, 117, Victoria Street, S.W., would
elicit a reply in reference to the book beiug in the
Lindley Library. — Young Hand. You should
obtain Soils mul their Properties, by Dr. W. Frcam,
one of Bell's Agricultural Series, published by G.
Bell and Sons, York Street, Covent Garden, W.C.
— A. Urbanczyk: The Canadian Horticulturist,
published monthly by The Ontario Fruit Growers'
Association, Toronto, Ontario. Meehans' Monthly,
published by Thos. Meehau and Sous, Germans-
town, Philadelphia. — A Foreman. You will liud
Mr. Barron's Vinesand VineCvlture a trustworthy
manual; and the late Dr. B. Hogg's Manual en
Fruits is the best we have after Dr. Bull's llere-
fordshire Pomona. We kuow of no special
manual on Figs iu the English language, and
their cultivation is so simple that scarcely any is
needed. Hogg's Fruit Manual coutains a lengthy
list of varieties, together with descriptions,
but no cultural details. Good directions iu regard
to culture are given in Thomson's Gardeners'
Assistant. Williams' Orchid Grower's Manual is
one of the best books on the cultivation of Orchids.
It cau be obtained at the Victoria and Paradise
Nurseries, Upper Holloway, N. — 67. F. Try and
obtain from a seller of second-hand books a copy
of Cool Orchitis, anil how to Grow Them, by F.
W. Burbidge. The work is jut of print.

COBCEA SCANDENS : W.J.S. Best raised from seeds
sowu on a mild hotbed iu March. The plaut cau
also be struck from cuttings of the new shoots
obtained from plants started in moderate heat in
February. The cuttings strike freely in a sandy
soil, in bottom heat of 7o° to 80°, under a bell-
glass.

Correction. — In answer to "A. S. W. ," p. 80 of
the last issue, for Lilium lancifolium Harrisii,
read L. longifolium Harrisii.

Cyclamen Flowers with More than the Usual
Number of Petals : A. H. This is by no means
uncommon, and we have seen many specimens
similar to those you send. The variability to be
seen in strains of Cyclamen latifolium was illus-
trated in these pages on several occasions last
year. See Gardeners' Chronicle, March 5, lt-DS,
p. 135; March 19, 1898, p. 173. Also in Gar-
deners' Chronicle, 1897, January 30, p. 70 and 71 ;
May 15, p. 317 ; May 22, p. 331.

Extirpation of Water Lilies in a Lake fi feet
deep : '.'. 67. If the water can be run off to a
groat extent, the work of tearing up the plants
by the roots should not be so difficult a matter.
You will require some strong drags or long toothed

rakes, or even field-harrows. The work will,
however, if performed in that manner, require
several years to make a thorough clearance of the
plants.

Fungus on Roots of Myrtle: R. M. R. The
fungus, tlie mycelium of which you send, is
common on decaying vegetable matter under
ground, but the species cannot be determined
in that stage. The state of the soil in borders
under glass often engenders fungus of the nature
of this oue. Quicklime if used iu sufficient
quantity would doubtless extirpate the same,
but it would destroy the plaut. It was the
proper course to take to dig out the entire mass
of infected soil, replacing it by loamy soil J,
leaf soil {, and sufficient saud to keep it open
and aerated : see also to the drainage, that this
is efficient, a great deal depending upon that.
Every particle of fungus-infested matter about
the roots, and decayed roots, should be removed.

Hole in Clay Soil in whhh a Fruit Tree is
placed: Quite an Amateur. A M-feet square
hole, 4 feet deep, dug out in clay, is not a
suitable place in which to put any fruit tree, as
it will, while affordiug very little space, collect
a great deal of surface - water, which a.s it
could not escape through the clay, would act
injuriously on the tree. The flooring of slates
would hinder the roots descending iuto the clay,
which, however, they are not likely to do. A
better method of dealing with the matter would
be to lay iu pipe or rubble drains, 3 to 4 feet
deep and 10 feet away from the trees, aud lead
them iuto a dry well or an outlet drain ; then trench
the soil to the depth of the tillage soil, turn-
ing up the bottom spit in situ, and mixing with it
lime and rough rubbish, stable litter, cabbage
stalks, anything in fact that will add to its
porosity, and afford plant food that will be
available iu time to come. Haviug done this,
wait a month before planting the trees. You
may put slates, stoue slabs, or a bed of concrete
3 feet from the surface, so that the tap-root does
not descend further than that. In planting take
out a wide hole so that the roots may be spread
out at full length, and do not cover the upper-
most with more than 6 inches of soil. Fresh loamy
soil and a small quantity of rotten duug if the
staple is poor, should be used about the roots
when planting the trees.

Luculia gratissima : II". /. ,S'. May be struck
from cuttings of young shoots taken in Juue, but
it is not a very satisfactory method ; and layers
or imported seed give the quicker results. The
colour of the flowers of L. gratissima are pale
rose. The plant is an evergreen. The best kind
of soil is iibry loam two-thirds, peat aud leaf-
mould one-third, and plenty of sharp sand.

Maggots l\ THE SHOOTS OF CURRANTS : Quite an
A mull a,-. The insect is .Egeria tipuliformis,
the larvie of which bores the stems aud shoots of
the Bed Currant, eatiug out the pith and weaken-
ing the bushes. As a remedy, cut off' iu spring
and autumn all hollowed shoots aud suags and
burn them.

Names of Fruit. — G. H. Apple, Annie Elizabeth.
— E. D. Cannot be recognised, so much bruised.
— 67. F. Broth rston. 1 and 3, Blenheim Orange ;
'-'. King of the Pippins; 4, Mere de Manage ; 5,
Warner's King ; 0, Green Balsam ; 7, Twin
Cluster.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answi n il in
/hi* issue are requested in be so e/ood as to consult
the following number. — F. P. I). Labels detached,
but the plants are identified as follows : 1, Cym-
bidium gigauteum, the large single flower ; 2,
Oymbidium siueuse, two flowers on upright
stalk ; 3. Cattleya Triamei, a very good variety ;
4, Epidendrum aromaticum, the pair of fragrant
flowers. — T. J., Lostunthiel. -Eschyuauthus
speciosus. — E. D. 1, Marauta zebriua ; 2, Eu-
lalia japonica variegata ; 3, Oncidium flexuosum;
4. Zygopetalum Mackayi ; 5, Bulbophyllum
Careyanum ; 6, Dendrobium Pierardi, so far as
we can judge without seeing flowers. — E. S.,
Birmingham. 1, Nephrolepis tnberosa ; 2, Poly-
podium pustulatum ; 3, Lygodium japonicum,
a climbing Fern. — A. F., Uckfield. 1. Cypri-
pedium concolor ; 2, Cologyne lactea ; 3, Deu-
drobium Pierardi; 4, D. primuliuum. — T. T.
Dendrobium Bancroftianum.

Orchids for Intermediate Houses : G. T.
Intermediate Brassia Lanceana, B. Lawrence-
ana, B. maculata, B. verrucosa ; Burling-
tonias, Candida, decora, fragrane, and otheis

Cattleyas, Acklandi;e, amethystoglossa, bicolor,
chocoensis, guttata, gigas, labiata, Mosshe,
Triamei, Warneri, Wagneri, and others ; Colax
jugosus ; Cymbidiums, eburneum, Mastersii,
gigauteum, and pendulum ; Cypripediums, cau-
datum, Dominianum, Schlimi, and many more;
Epidendrums, bicornutum, macrochilnm, pris-
matocarpum, and nemorale ; Lrelias, ciuua-
bariua, elegans, prastans, purpurata ; Maxil-
larias, grandiflora, Iuteo - graudiflora, picta,
venusta, &c. ; Miltonias, Clowesii, Eegnelli, and
spectabile ; Oncidiums, ampliatum, crispum,
iucurvum, Kramerianum, luridum, oi nithorhyn-
chum, papilio, sarcodes ; Sophronitis cerium,
grandiflora, aud violacea ; Trichopilias, coceiuea,
crispa, Galeottiana, suavis, tortilis ; Zygopeta-
lums, eriuitum, Mackayi, macranthum, and
rostratum. We will give you a list of cool-house
species iu our next issue.

Outside Plants for Cross-Breeding Purposes:
//. ./. J. There are various methods of pro-
tection from chance fertilisation, such as frames,
handlights, fine musliu covering ; also similar
coverings to the ventilating parts of frames, &e.
A flower or a number of flowers may be enclosed
in a muslin bag previously to expanding.

Peach-trees and Manure : Novice. If the trees
are iu good health, and require merely a little
assistance to cause the production of good wood,
and increase the size of the fruits, matters
which only the person on the spot can deter-
mine, you may apply lime iu sufficient quautity
to hide the soil— finely broken plaster will do ;
potash 2 to 3 oz. to the square yard, pricking
this in ; aud finally a mulch in summer of horse-
droppings and short litter 3 inches thick. If the
soil be retentive, use only droppings, and prick
them in ; and the mulch leave on the surface if
the laud be light.

RlCHARDIAS NOT OPENING THEIR SpATHF.S : A. K.
The plants are cither checked by some cause, as
Iofs of roots, &c, or they were too long or too
severely dried off. It is a cultural matter,
doubtless, which cau only be settled by one
haviug a full knowledge of the past and preseut
treatment of the plants.

Seems Germinating within a Gourd: IT. A'.
The specimeus you send are very interesting. It
is not an jufrequeut occurrence, however, for seeds
to so germinate in the case of Cucumbers, Melons,
Oranges, the Papaw and other fruits. In your
specimen the cotyledons were partially green,
although iu the absence of light. This circum-
stance has been explained by Prof. Church on a
former occasion as probably due to some modifi-
cation of the rays of light, which are capable of
"greening" although their energy be altered in
character. Respecting the Orchid sent, see next
week's issue.

Sm Pollen-bearing Carnations ; II. J. J. We
do not suppose that you cau do anything beyond
exposiug the pollen-bearing anthers to the light
by the careful removal of adjacent petals.

Tree Fern: E. ]'.<;. In the absence of any in-
formation, we can only surmise the cause of the
death of the plant. It may be gas, bad drainage,
improper cultivation, &c.

Use of Superphosphate of Lime in Vineries
ind Peach Houses : W. 67. The chief aim being
the sweetening of the soil and tlie rendering active
the inert vegetable substances in the soil ; you
would find pulverised (recently slaked) lime the
best to use. It can be spread half an iuch thick
on the surface and left there, or just turned
under. It should not come at the first in direct
contact with the roots. If you use bone meal at
the same time it will be a wasteful proceeding.
On the Peach border you might use potash at
about 2 ozs. to the square yard iu addition to tho
lime, or alone.

Communications Received.— Barr ft Son— E. W. B — F W B
- W. M. B.— A. 8. C— Geo. Fanner.— W. J. B.— P. I'.—
Murr.— Crocus.— D. C. Cronibie.— D. T. V. (too late).—
Nurseryman. — A. R.— Florence Pettv.— H. Correvon.—

C. K. S.— H. A G. Nobbs.— A. D.— F. A. W.— W. N. C —

C. K.— llei-lx- & Wulle.— G. T.-A. C.-C. H. P— A. T.—
A. J. L— H. T. M.-A. C. P.— W. H. S.— 8. A.— A. P.—
J. J. W.-H. P.-H. H. T.-R. B.— J. II.- H. W. «'.—
.1 May.- J. M.-.i. K.— J. H. w.

SPECIMENS MU PUOTOORAPHS RECEIVED WITH TlIAXKS.—

J. Macbar.

DIED.— On the 7th inst., at '
Reading, Ellen, widow of the
SUTTON, Esq., in her 70th year.

' Greenlands,

late Alfred

{For Markets and Weather, see p. xiv.)

PsBhuAhV 18, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

97

^/a^jj^^r

THE

No. 634.— SATURDAY, FEB. 18, 1899.

E 0 M E.

(Concluded from p. i;'>.)

I HAVE sometimes had a dream of what the
Colosseum might become if it were only
clothed with a studied and deliberate intent. How
Ramondia pyrenaica would find a dwelling-place
in many a damp and dark recess, how Dianthus
cajsius woidd cling with pleasure to the walls,
how Verbascum lychnitis (which adorns Haddon
Hall) would soon spread everywhere over the
place ; how Erinus hispanicus would be at home,
how Rosa Wichuriana would like to fling itself
in great lengths over the stones, how Mesem-
bryanthemums would glisten in the sun — all
these, and many more that might be named,
would like to have such a chance ; but the
dream is one to be checked upon the instant,
the Colosseum would never respond to such a
covering as that. It never could have borne
to be decked out in festal robes. What Dr.
Arnold, called "its inexplicable beauty and
solemnity " would be lost, and that sweet
melancholy aspect which it had in days gone by
was owing in part to its left-alone condition, and
and to the tangle of shrubs and plants.

There are two plants beyond all others whose
comparative absence, I think, must be regretted
in the Colosseum of Rome ; one is the common
Wallflower, which has so prettily been called
"Isolation's Dower," and which used to
lighten up the old crumbling walls and seem
quits at horns there — a ruin is ruined to my
mind if Wallflowers are not growing in quantity
over it, there is something quite unnatural in
their absence, and their presence is an ornament
for decay ; and the other is the Caper-plant,
which has a most extraordinary affinity for old
waste places, and finds them out and seems to
love buildings when all use for them has passed
away. Its home used once to be amid the fallen
arches and grass - grown colonnades of the
neglected Colosseum, and it threw itself in great
lengths from stone to stone with its pendent
branches and smooth shining leaves and large
white blossoms with purple stamens that waved
so pleasantly in the wind. All this is for the m03t
p irt over now, for though the Caper-plant still
abounds in the vicinity, and roams as it likes
to do in the Palace of the Cse3ars on the Palatine
Hill, it is under an interdict in the spot which,
ot all others, suited it best, and it3 white cascades
of blossom nj longer stream down in the
Cjlo3.seum which it used to adorn so well, and
with whp3e fallen state it seemed to be in closest
sympathy. It is just exactly tli3 plant which
ought to be there, and which would be there
beyond a doubt in great quantity but for the
mischievous interference which has taken place.

I have mentioned a name above, that of
Mr. D wight Benton, about whom I venture to
say more before this paper is brought to an
end. The mantle of Dr. Deakin has fallen upon
the shoulders of Mi-. Dwight Benton in every-
thing that appertains to the flora of the Colos-
seum and of the Roman ruins generally. This
gentleman takes the greatest possible interest in

the matter, and being both a skilled botanist
and also an artist, he has qualifications for his
pursuit which do not belong to everybody. He
is an American, and for something like twenty-
six years he has been living in Rome till lately
as Consul-General de la Republic de Hawaii
pour l'ltalie. During all this time he has kept
his eyes open for anything of botanical interest,
and during the last eight of them he has had a
fixed object in view in the way of working up
the flora of the Roman ruins, and bringing his
description up-to-date. He does not quite go
upon the lines which Dr. Deakin followed, but
takes a wider area, the Colosseum being
embraced in it. He was very kind to me during
my visit to Rome, and allowed me to handle
the proof-sheets of his forthcoming book, and to
talk to him about them. Not a few things of
great interest I have heard from his lips. As
might be supposed, after his long residence in
Rome his mind is saturated with the lore and
traditions of the place, and so far as plants are
concerned he has spared no pains about them,
always making his notes on the spot, and bring-
ing home his specimens so that an after
verification might be made. To those who have
a twofold love in their hearts — the love of Rome
and the love of plants as well — it may with
confidence be said that Mr. Dwight Benton's
guidance will be a very acceptable aid, and his
In .nk will be constantly in their hands. I said
to him, " I hope it will not be a very expensive
affair, and that it will not cost more than a
pound." He replied that the price is nut yet
settled, but he did not think it would come to
so high a figure as that. It goes upon the
general plan in such cases as this — first comes
a scientific description, and afterwards are added
more general and ordinary remarks.

I will mention some two or three things about
which I am indebted to him, and which I think
aii- i if interest. One of his proof-sheets ran in
this way. about in)' favourite Caper-plant: —
"This beautiful plant is found' everywhere as
an adornment to the relics of antiquity. Its
long pendent stems hang in graceful curves from
the crevices of old walls, and covered as they
are with smooth, shining leaves and con-
spicuous flowers, form must beautiful accents
and breaks in the otherwise monotonous tones
of a ruin. Its flowers open only towards
evening, and exhale a most delicious odour.
Many attempts have been made to introduce it
into cultivation, but it pines away under the
fostering care of the florist, preferring its native
niches in walls, where it seems to extract some
unknown nutriment from the stones them-
selves. It thrives, however, in rocky and barren
situations, specially when left to itself to spread
in old Olive-orchards, &c. The specie3, C.
spino3a proper, is rare, but the variety rupes-
tris, is most abundant, and differs in its shorter
leaf-stems, and in the absence of the curved
spines at their bases." What strikes me most
about this is, that it explains what I in my igno-
rance could never make out before. The whole
plant, so far as I have had it in my hands, has
always been quite smooth and spineless, and I
never could see how it came to be called spinosa,
except on the Incus a non lucendo principle,
which is so utterly absurd. It now appears
that I never have had anything to do with the
species Capparis spinosa proper, but that only
the variety rupestris is familiar to me. The
other point is, that with all due deference to
Mr. Dwight Benton, I do not think that Cap-
paris spinosa var. rupestris is so intolerant of
cultivation as he imagines it to be. I have had it
oft' and on upon my rockery for many years, and

I have it still, or, at any rate, I could have
answered for that, towards the end .of last
summer, when I happened to be at home. It
must be grown in full sunshine, and will pine
away in the shade, and the rubble from an old
wall cheats it into the belief that it belongs to
some "relic of antiquity," and it is happy
accordingly. But this is nothing at all. I would
only say, let those who love Capparis spin. >sa,
as I do, for many an old association's sake, not
be deterred from trying it. Seek to make it
think that it is in the Palace of the Ciesars, or
on the Colosseum of Rome, and it will like you
at once.

But another piece of information which I
had from Mr. Dwight Benton is almost more
interesting than the above, it is one -of 'those
very strange things which seem to defy expla-
nation. When excavations were lately being
made on the Palatine Hill, and the ground was
much stirred and dug about, a large crop of a
very unexpected plant made its appearance, and
Nicotiana glauca, which belongs to the La Plata
countries, was all over the place. Mr. Benton
told me that this has been a matter of great
interest to the botanists of Italy — especially to
one whose name I forget, and who is a great
authority, and lives at Pisa ; but so far it has
been a cause only for wonderment. We were
talking about Cyclamens, and my instructor
incidentally said there is plenty of reason
why they should be called ''sowbread," inelegant
though the appellation may be. Cyclamens are
known to be the staple fund of the wild boar of
Italy, »vc. I only wish I had a tithe of the
knowledge which Mr. Dwight Benton has both
about Rome and about plants.

I cannot bring this letter to a close with-
out expressing the fervent hope that . the
mischief which is being done to the Roman
ruins will not go on for ever. The name of
Pope Pius IX. deserves no " exornavit " after
it so far as they are concerned, and his servant
Rossa will long be remembered as having spoilt
much of what he was so ready to touch. If
only the present generation could keep their
solicitude for the splendid ruins under their
charge as much as possible to themselves, things
would come right after a time.

The Colosseum only wants to be left alone.
If Charles Dickens was right when he said that
in his day it was crumbling away at the rate of
one inch a year, why should it not be so I There
are a good many inches and a good many years
still remaining, and at that rate it would surely
be better for it to be highly attractive as long
as it lasts than to last to a very remote future,
and to be forbidding in appearance all the way
through.

Left alone the Colosseum would be certain to
have its mysterious sweetness all come back to
it. As it were, an invisible hand would cover
up all it3 deformities, and drape it once again
with a veil of loveliness. The Ferns and the
mosses, the plants and the shrub3, would return
to the spots which seem made for them, and
which would receive them with the utmost
alacrity. The winds would do their part in this
great adornment of the place — birds may be
trusted for such an office as that ; and though
we, of the generation to which I belong, can
never hope to see the Colosseum again as I have
seen it in days that have passed away, our
children, if ever they come to Rome, will find that
tangle of vegetation which seems to carry a
message along with it to our very hearts ; and
they will look on one of the sweetest and most
pathetic spectacles on which the human eye can
rest. Henry Ewbtmk.

98

THE GARDENER S> 0 1 1 It ONI CLE.

[FEBRUARY IS, 1899.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

•

CATXLEYA TRIAN.EI MRS. W". H. CANNON".

It 19 always a pleasure to see that a variety
which we have previously noticed has improved.
Too often it is to he feared that an exceptionally
well-grown plant, blooming under very favourable
circumstances, produces a phenomenal bloom, and
obtains a varietal name in consequence, and is
never again seen but in the ordinary form.

Such is-not the case with the two extraordinary
forms of C. Triansei named, for W. H. Cannon, Esq.,
Vanda Lodge, Twickenham, viz., 0. Trianrei Can-
noniana, a charming large flower of handsome shape,
and delicate peach-blossom tint, similar to some of
the forms of C. Sohroderse ; and C. T. Mrs. W. H.
Cannon, a flower of which is again before us. Its
petals arc over 3 inches in width, the whole flower
of flue proportions and substance, and boldly dis-
playing itself in the manner which lovers of perfect
flowers desire. The whole flower is of a clear
white, the labellum suffused with a pearl - like
blush, and bearing a chrome-yellow band extending
from the base to the centre, the front having a
blight purple blotch, with broad white margin. It
is comparable with C. T. Ernest Ashworth, and
that is giving it a very high character.

Cattles a Percivaliana,

Opinions generally differ as to the merits of most
of the varieties of this species, but when an excep-
tionally fine form blooms, it is commonly admitted
that it compares favourably with any other type of
Cattleya labiata in shape and in the richness of its
colour, if not in size. A bloom of an unusually
fine variety is sent me by C. B. Powell, Esq., The
Old Hall, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells (gr., Mr.
Dupont), who remarks that in substance and colour
of the sepals and petals, a bright purplish-rose, it has
resemblance to the best form of Cattleya Law-
renceana. The petals and lip are broad, and finely
crimped at the margin. The lip is deep orange at
the base, with maroon-coloured markings. The
central area is orange-tinted crimson, and shades
off to light purple towards the distinct lavender
coloured crisped margin.

CVPRIPEDIl M LEOPARDINtTM (SaLLIERI HvE-

anum x Argus).
A very stately and uncommon variety under this
name has been sent me by the Rev. F. Paynter,
Stoke Hill, Guildford. In general appearance,
and in the glossy surface of the flower, it recalls
some forms of C. x vernixium; but the flower
is larger and more effectively coloured. The upper
sepal is of a rich yellow tint at the base; the
central portion of purple, and the margin white
with rosy-purple markings. The petals, which
show the influence of C. Argus distinctly, are of a
bright yellow colour ; the upper halves and blade
are tinged with reddish-purple on two-thirds of the
basal portion, and also cany dark chocolate-brown
spots. The lip is greenish-yellow, tinged on the face
with reddish-rose. The stamiuode is yellow, with a
green central boss. The whole flower is a curious
blend of C. Argus, C. villosum, and C. insigne.

CvriMii'ii a (PapHIOPEDIUM) - C\LUui'K,
iii 10 yard. hyb.
A very striking, though not showy, hybrid, its
great size, as with C. X Chas. Canham, being
its chief characteristic. The upper sepal, which is
abruptly folded back, is bright green, with a clear
white margin, adistiuct band of purple up the mid-
rib, and some half-dozen lighter purple forked lines
following the veining of the surface. The petals
are yellowish-green, with a band of purple up the
centre, a dark green reticulation, and pale rose
tinge on the outer half. The lip is greenish-white,
with a slight rose tint. In this instance, as in some
others, I have noted the blackish warts so con-
spicuous on the upper margin of the petals of
C. callosum are quite obliterated, although it was
the seed-bearing parent, the margin being simply

white. Lower sepal greenish-white, with darker
green lines. Staminode changed from the horse-
shoe-shaped outline of C. callosum to a two-lobed
plate, resembling a pair of elephant's ears, whitish,
with pink tint, and with an indistinct green reticu-
lation in the centre. It is a bold flower, measuring
7 inches broad, and over 5 inches in length, without
spreading. Leaves, pale green, with a close dark-
green reticulation.

It was raised from callosum $. Lathamianum £
(Spicerianum $ , villosum $ ), and flowered by Walter
C. Clark, Esq., Orleans House, Sefton Park, Liver-
pool, who considerately sent me a flower and leaf of
each parent to compare with it. James O'Brh n.

EPIDENDRUM UMBELLATUM.

A GOOD many plants have been named Epiden-
drum umbellatum, and some of them have not been
Epidendrums at all ; but our illustration (fig. 39\
taken from a plant which flowered with Messrs.
Stanley-Mobbs & Ashton, of Southgate, represents

wither. If the disease appears later and on mature
leaves, these show discoloured spots varying from
pale green to yellow, brown, reddish-brown, or
purple ; in other words, autumn colouring comes
on prematurely. If the spots dry up, they easily
drop out, leaving holes. Leaf-stalks and young wood
may also become discoloured. The disease may be
found in all stages. Everything indicates something
wrong in the nutrition of the Vine ; the result will
be a loss of fruit in quantity or quality. When
the plaut is in this condition, various fungi will,
no doubt, show themselves, and the ardent fungus-
hunter is likely to indicate some of these as the
cause of trouble. The appearance of the symptoms
just described is said to be most common in moist
weather, when mists or fogs prevail, and is most
conspicuous in outdoor vineyards with a northern
exposure. The disease is not favoured by weather
with prevailing sunshine, and a spell of weather of
this kind will probably check an attack already in
progress. During a moist season the disease seems
to become epidemic, and it spreads rapidly, like

Pig. 39.— epidesdrttm cmbellatom.

the true plant, a form of which is figured in the
Botanical Magazine, t. 2030. It is found in South
and Central America, and it varies much in habit
and iu the size of its flowers, but in all the forms
the peculiar thick green leaves and trauslucent
pale-green flowers are constant features. This plant
was recommended a Botanical Certificate at a
meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on
January 31.

DISEASES OF THE VINE.

(i ontinueol from />. IT.)
Browning. ■Browning,'' or " Brunissure," is
one of many names given to certain symptoms of
disease common on the Vine and other plants. The
disease is widespread, varied in appearance, and
not easy to sum up briefly. The chief symptom
is a general weakening or failure of tie whole
plant. The young foliage shows more or less dis-
coloration, and tends to become dry. It may ouly
be the leaf-margins which go in this way, or spots
of varying size may appear over the whole leaf.
Healthy parts frequently continue to enlarge, so
that wrinkles or blisters are formed on the leaf,
and offer tempting shelter to insects. In extreme
cases, the leaves fall off, and tin.' ends of young twigs

many fungus diseases. Heavy rains, with good
weal her between, are said to have no effect in
assisting the damage. Iu regard to soils, those
badly drained are most liable, and any treatment,
or want of treatment, which makes a soil sodden
and impervious to air, are friendly to the disease ;
on the other hand, all measures making towards
good drainage will favour the- grower. On plots
near each other, with different methods of manuring,
the disease is generally found worst where fresh
farm-yard manure was used iu quantity.

This is one of the diseases said to be caused by
the action of Pseudocommis, a slime-fungus we hear
much of at present. According to certaiu French
investigators, this fungus causes diseases on in-
numerable plants, some of which were referred to
in a note in the Gardeners' Chronicle on July 23,
1898, p. 69. It is described as a minute fungus,
somewhat like the club-root fungus (Plasmadio-
plana i of Turnips, &c. We have just made a
critical review of important papers on Pseudo-
commis, but, briefly, its importance as a parasite
on the Vine or any other plant, does not yet seem
well proved. It is a tempting prospect to the
plaut-pathologist to find a fungus, insect, or some
other cause to which to refer some of the many
diseases of obscure origin. This is exactly what

Kkiiiii ,u:v- 18, 1899.]

THE GAR DENE i? £' CHRONICLE.

99

the authors of Pseudocommis claim ; to us, how-
over, the evidence given as yet is far from con-
vincing. The symptoms of "browning" in the
Vine just described above agree with those giveu
by a supporter of the Pseudocommis theory, but
we I li ink that growers will support our view — that
the Vine will show disease in this way if the con-
ditions of soil aud climate be those indicated,
without calling in the aid of any fungus. It does
seem a little absurd to believe that every plant
disease must be the work of a fungus, insect, or
other parasite. For these reasons, we have pre-
ferred to class " browning " as a disease caused by
defects in cultivation. Many experiments as to
remedies have been tried under the assumption
that Pseudocommis is the cause of diseases like
"browning," but application of sprays or powders
generally used against fungi does not seem suc-
cessful. What does succeed is a clear atmosphere
with moderate rains, and a treatment of the soil
likely to benefit the general health of the Vines.

The dreaded Californian Vine disease in many
ways resembles " browning. " It seems to be con-
lined tn (Irape growing parts of western North
America, and has there been the subject of much

others to a fungus named Coryneum. We prefer
rather to take a view supported by very conclusive
evidence, namely, that "gumming" is a natural
tendency of the Vine', which becomes aggravated
into a disease by pruning, over -cropping, and
mishandling in cultivation.

In conclusion, the diseases of the Vine described
in the present article cannot be traced to the direct
action of any fungus or insect, although attempts
have been made to do so. Nor is their cure
brought about by any of the methods used against
parasitic organisms. In every case the disease
represents an exaggeration of some condition natural
tn the Vine plant. " Shanking" is an exaggerated
form of the natural way in which Vines get rid of
superfluous or weak fruit; "blanching" is an
extreme case of paleness natural to the foliage of
any plant improperly supplied with food ;
" browning" is an untimely appearance of autumn
tints; "gumming" is an excessive formation of
gummy substances found in every Vine. The
disease in each case is brought about by methods
of cultivation unsuited to keep up the health of
the plant. The preventiou and cure lies in making
the cultivation more suitable. The tendency

FlO. 40. ZYGOBATEMANIA MASTERS!!.

special study by qualified experts. They can trace
no fungus or insect as itscause. What progress

has been made in checking the disease is atta 4

by improved cultivation of suitable varieties.

Ill MM I Nil.

This disease has its origin in the practice of
pruning the Viue. When a twig is pruned
off, the branch left dies back for a short
distance below the cut ; at the same time
the vessels and other elements of the stem
near the wound become stopped up by a secre-
tion of gum, which hardens. This is a natural
process, aud happens after every pruniug-cut on a
Vine. Investigations on the cultivated and other
species of Vine show that gummy substances are
formed in the elemeutsof the second year aud older
wood ; in some cases also in the first year wood.
The Viue is, then, a plant which has a tendency to
form gum in its tissues. The disease of "gumming "
is due to au abnormal formation of gum. The
wood breaks down, and cavities are formed filled
with gum, which becomes so abundant that it
streams from broken places in the bark or from
pruning-cuts. It may also harden inside the stem,
and choke the tissues, so that no water can pass
up ; as a result the leaves and new wood wither,
aud this is accompanied by loss of the fruit-crop.
So mi- investigators say that "gumming" is due to
bacteria ; others put it down to the action of
Pseudocommis, the .slime-fungus referred to above ;

towards disease is the result of growiug for a
purpose— fruit production — aud neglecting, for-
getting, or being ignorant of details necessary to
ensure the general health of the Vine, No matter
how careful a grower may be of his Vines, it is
easy to overlook some detail; this may pass un-
noticed for years while it gathers force, ultimately
to appear as a disease, probably when a cold spring,
a sunless summer, or an adverse season hastens
events of this kind. The fault need be no one's,
and we can only blame our ignorance as to the
requirements of the Vine ; the lesson is to try and
remedy the defects for the future. It might even
be said that if we could cultivate the Vine exactly
as it requires, we should probably see less of disease
of any kind, including the various forms of mildew,
rust, rots, and others, which are doubtless the work
of fungi whose first foothold is made easy on weakly
plants. The difficulty is to say exactly what is
the defect in cultivation ; this must be learned by
experience. The records of this experience, how-
ever, should assist those in need of it. If. '.'. Sm'iHi
Leech.

ZYG OB ATE MANIA x MASTERSII.

Our illustration (fig. 40) represents a very
interesting cross made by Messrs. Linden, l'Horti-
oultnre Internationale, Brussels, between Zygope-
talum criuitum, fertilised with the pollen of Bate-
maunia C'olleyi. The plant and its flowers are quite

intermediate between the parents, and it is altoge-
ther a remarkable hybrid. The scape bears several
flowers, the sepals and petals of which are green,
heavily tinged with chocolate colour, and the lip is
creamy-white, with dotted lines of purple arouud
the crest.

SEED TRADE.

Tree Seeds. — Those of the seed trade who are
interested in tree seeds, and especially those of
Couifera-, may be interested to learn that in those
districts from which seed of some of the species is
drawn, the crops are of varying extent. Abies
Douglasii is short in most districts, while A. Men-
ziesii is au almost entire failure, but the crop of
A. pectinata is good and obtainable at low prices.
" It may not be generally known that the wood of
Abies Douglasii is very resinous, and makes excel-
lent firewood, even when green. In dead trees the
bark and wood are often so full of resin as to burn
like a torch, aud from its combustibility extensive
I racts of forests are burnt every year. Were it not
that the vegetable tissues will burn readily, the
immense mass of it that encumbers the surface of
an ordinary farm on the banks of the Columbia
wotdd bid defiance to any efforts that one man
could make for its removal during the time of his
natural life" (Manual of Conifem). Larix lepto-
lepis, one of Mr. J. G. Veitch's introductions
from Japan, has yielded seeds freely, and prices
are low. The Scotch Fir, Pinus sylvestris, has
yielded seed very sparingly all over the contiuent ;
there is a brisk demand for samples, and prices are
advancing. P. excelsa, the Norway Spruce, has
yielded a full crop of excellent quality, which can
be obtained at tempting terms. P. Larix (Larch) is
a plentiful crop, satisfactory both as to quality and
price. P. Strobus is also of good quality, germi-
nating freely, and obtainable at average prices. P.
austriaca, P. Laricio, P. maritima, and P. Cembra,
have so far yielded, that very choice seeds can be
Supplied at moderate prices.

Of deciduous trees the supply of seeds of Birch and
Elm is small, the unfavourable weather during
sluing and early summer had an injurious effect
upon the trees. Of the common Oak there is
ample, and there is enough of Beech mast to meet
all demands, and the same can be said of the Maple,
Birch, Hornbeam, Haws, Ash, Acacia, Broom, the
small and large-leaved Limes, and also Furzes.
Pisum.

NOTES FROM A SCOTTISH MANSE.

Winter for Nature, as well as for the earnesl
horticulturist, is a period of repose; she is resting
from her energies, and increasing, by means of
such temporary cessation, her latent strength.
Only in rare instances do we perceive auy manifes-
tations of what may be termed vegetative activity
above the surface of the ground. I have, how-
ever, already recorded in the Gardeners' Chronicle
how the beautiful, violet hued Iris reticulata, gave
me an unexpected greeting, such as only a lovely
flower can give to an instinctive lover of Nature
on Christmas Day. It recalled, by its beauty, the
gracious benediction of the Friend of Man : "Evea
Solomon, in all his glory, was not arrayed like one
of these. " To the vision of the thoughtful, reveren-
tial nature, the splendour of raonarehs must always
seem garish, when compared with that of the
glorious eastern and western flowers. Pre-
viously to the appearance of Iris reticu-
lata, my winter gardei was greatly glad-
dened by the naked-flowering Jasmine (Jasminum
nudiflorum), which is always very fascinating, with
its golden blossoms shiuing amid its glossy creen
branches, like a bright and steadfast hope, iu the
heart of adversity, of vernal beauty yet to come.

Probably by reason of the absence of sunlight, i 1,

of the winter flowers are destitute of fragrance,
which in other seasons would be accounted a serious
limitation, but Chimonauthus fragrans, which
flowers in December and January, is a striking
exception to this general rule. This precious plant

100

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 18, 1899.

should always be pruned immediately after its
(lowering season is over ; but this fact, I fear, is
often forgotten by amateur horticulturists, who
fail to observe that the shoots which have already
blossomed abundantly are of no floral service for the
following season.

One of the most graceful of all winter flowers is
the Christinas Rose, Helleborus niger, which,
though it does not appear to have discovered in my
own garden an absolutely congenial soil, succeeds
admirably at Logan House in this parish, where
also the fragrant Viola odorata, which is cultivated
by Mrs. McDonall, blooms profusely in late winter
and early spring.

The Duchess of Sutherland makes a specialty of
the Snowdrop, for whose cultivation one of her
Scottish residences, Dunrobin Castle, in Sutherland-
shire, has long been famous. Mr. Matthew Arnold
once wrote me as follows regarding this flower : —
" I do not know that I have ever mentioned the
Snowdrop in my verses, but I have been planting
it among my shrubberies, and admire it greatly."
But as I afterwards reminded him, he had thus
characterised Iseult, one of his fiaest and most
delicate creations —

" Who is this Snowdrop by the sea ? "
from which it would almost appear that I knew
some of his poems, and especially their charming
incidental floral passages, better than himself.

Last year I had the gratification of receiving
from Mr. F. W. Burbidge, the Curator of Trinity
College Gardens, Dublin (who may be said to have
made a special study of spring flowers), a number
of tine bulbs of the gigantic Crimean Snowdrop,
introduced into this country by Lord Clarinda,
which I planted very carefully in a grassy plot
oj^>osite my study window, from which, when their
large and lustrous, pendulous flowers appear in
February (for they come somewhat late), I shall
always be able to see them when I am at my work.
The majority of my Snowdrops have been planted
in leaf -mould, beneath the bare, overhanging
branches of trees. In such positions they are iu
perfect correspondence with their environment, and
create at this season most picturesque effects.
David /■'. WUtiamson.

Alpine Garden.

•

NEW AND RARE PLANTS FOR ALPINE

GARDENS AND ROCKERIES.

(Continued from p. 212, r.l. xxiv.)

Midgedium caraiinfo/ium, Boissier.— Large and
good herbaceous plant, with erect stems, growing
from 4 to 5 feet, bearing tine and large leaves 1 foot
lone and 5 inches broad, hastate or triangularly
ovate ; flowers numerous, deep blue, in small heads
joined iu large panicles. It is a very showy plant ;
the seeds were brought to us by the botanist
Alboff, from the Caucasus. It seems to like the
shade or a half-shady situation, and grows freely
in ordinary soil.

Palaver radicatum, Rottboell. — A small form
of P. nudicaule growing in the mountains of Scan-
dinavia. The leaves are short and hairy, the stems
short, the flowers large, and the calyx very hairy.
It grows in any good soil.

Paracaryum angustifolium, Boissier. — A very
good variety of Borage, newly introduced from
the mountains of Asia Minor. A small and tufted
plant, not exceeding a foot in height, and forming
a dense bush of narrow, deep green, shining, and
somewhat hairy leaves ; the flowers are of the most
beautiful sky-blue, disposed in corymbose racemes,
and open from July to August. The plant requires
sun and a dry situation, and likes the rockery, for
which it might have been created.

We obtained from Dr. Duthie at Saharanpur,
India, another Paracaryum, under the name Para-
earyum sp. Hazara. It flowered well last summer,
has broad leaves and sky-blue flowers, and seems
to be near to P. inanum, although not identical
with it.

Plantago uuiflora, Hook. — We obtained this from
seeds sent from New Zealand three years ago. It
is a pretty little plant, with curious, very deeply-
toothed leaves ; these leaves are variegated, and
marked with brown or deep purple veins ; the
flowers are inconspicuous and rare, but the plant is
worth cultivation because of the curious and pretty
foliage. It grows well in a sunny rock -pocket.

Plat ycodon glaucum, Siebold and Zuccharini, of
Japan, is a dwarf and glaucous form of the beautiful
large autumnal Bellflower, and a very welcome
acquisition for the rockery.

Pulmonaria rubra, Schott. — The. Index Kewensis
considers this very showy plant as identical with
P. mollis, Wolff ; but I cannot admit that. The
Pulmonaria rubra is different ; its leaves are always
destitute of the spots generally so well marked
on those of V. mollis, and these leaves are thicker,
shorter-stemmed, and narrower than those of the
type, mollis. The flowers iu P. rubra are brilliant,
very showy, of the brightest red, and not turning
to blue after fecundation. It is an ornamental
plant for the rockery, where it succeeds in any good
soil. It flowers from April to June.

Pyrelhrum Starclianum, Alboff (in Bulletin
ile Iherbier Boissier, vol. ii., p. 455). — This new and
interesting Composite was discovered in the
Abchasian mountains in the Caucasus by my lato
friend, N. Alboff, in 1S9'2, and is a valuable addi-
tion to garden plants. It is a white tomeutose
plant 1 foot high, bearing deeply-cut leaves, and
large capsules of flowers with white ligules. It
flowers well on sunny places in rockeries or the
open ground. H. Correvon, Genera, Switzerland.
(To be continued).

Some Early Crocuses.

We can hardly realise how much we should miss
the Crocus, which in spring enamels our gardens
with bright colour. With golden-yellow, purple,
white, or striped blooms, it fills us with pleasure as
we see its flowers expanded in the sunshine of a
bright spring day. It cannot with any truth be
said that these Dutch Crocuses are not appreciated
and admired, but it can be claimed that what are
known as the Crocus "species, "do not receive a
fair share of the attention given to the others.
With these a garden may be made more attractive
not only because of the greater variety, but also by
reason of the succession of flowers produced by the
various species. To write of these in detail would,
perhaps, occupy too much space, but it may
possibly be of service to speak of a very few of the
Crocuses which are among the first of our flowers
to bloom in the earliest days of the year according
to our chronology.

Their coming is a little irregular, depending much
upon the weather, not only of their season, but also
to some degree upou that of the months which have
just passed away. Some years they are a mouth
or so late, but in others they favour us with their
flowers a second time by coming again before
December has gone.

Crocus Imperati. — Were one to be laid uuder the
necessity of making a choice among the early-
flowering Croci, it is probable that this fine species
would be the first chosen. It is very hardy,
although a native of Italy, and gives as little
trouble as any Crocus we grow. It is beautiful
also, whether closed, when i[S fawn-coloured seg-
meuts are attractive ; or open to the sun, when the
rich purple of its flowers till one with admiration.
It is early, occasionally blooming with us iu the
North before New Year's Day, but usually in
January, and further South, and in some parts of
Ireland, before Christmas. There is a white
variety, but this appears to bo difficult to estab-
lish, and I have lost it several times. The species
is rather variable ia Bhade of colour, and it has
been pointed out that there are two forms. One of
these, and the prettier of the two, comes before
the other, and is beautifully pencilled with black-
purple on the outside. The later variety is almost
self -coloured on the exterior of the outer segmeuts,

and is usually smaller. Crocus Imperati is cheap,
and produces seed freely, which may be sown as
soon as ripe. The seedlings do not flower for three
or four years.

Crocus riiellinns. — This pretty and bright little
Crocus usually comes rather earlier than C.
Imperati, and gives a bright touch of gold to the
spot in which it grows. The colour is a deep
goldeu-yellow, and in the dark days of the year a
good batch would be very acceptable. It is one of
the species which shows its proper leaves with the
flowers, a feature which, to some of us, appears to
add to their beauty. The outside is sometimes
feathered with bronze. The anthers are yellow or
orange, and the stigmata scarlet or orange. It is
common in Northern Palestine and Syria. It is
quite hardy with the writer, and is a little Crocus
worthy of wider cultivation.

Crocus Crewei. — The rare Crocus Crewei is closely
related to C. biflorus, and it is doubtful if it would
have been accorded specific rank but for its dark,
almost black, anthers. It comes into bloom with
me about the same time as C. vitelliuus, and,
although not bright like the latter in its colour, it
is very pretty and refined. The whitish -buff outer
segments are beautifully feathered with chocolate,
and the white interior contrasts pleasingly with the
deep 'chocolate of the anthers. This Crocus was
first found by Mr. Elwes in Syria in 1874, but it
has been sent from Asia Minor also. It has been
figured in the Botanical Magazine, and fuller
details regarding this and other Crocuses will be
found in Mr. Maw's " Synopsis of the Genus
Crocus," which appeared in the Gardeners1
Chronicle, vol. xvi., p. 102 et seq.

Crocus ancyrensis. — Another bright little Crocus
which comes soon after C. vitellinus is C. ancy-
rensis, the Angora Crocus ; it is deeper in colour
than C. vitellinus, and more nearly approaches a
deep orange. The segments are unstriped, and a
little clump of the grassy leaves and bright flowers
of the Augora Crocus looks very pretty. It is
said to be very plentiful in some parts of Asia
Miuor, but it is not nearly so commonly met with
in cultivation as one would expect.

These are only a few of the considerable number
of the plants of this charming genus, which pre-
sent themselves to us when flowers are scarce iu
the garden, and when the smallest blossom is
highly prized S. Arnott, Carsethorn, by Dumfries,
N.B.

Plant Notes.

IPOMOPSIS ELEGANS Var. [Sort. Vilmorin).

Tins pretty and useful annual affords a pleasing
aud attractive display when grovvu in groups in the
flower-borders. It grows to a height of 3 feet,
bearing long, more or less branching spikes of
flowers, which are valuable for decorative purposes.
The colour of the flowers varies, ranging from pink
and salmon to creamy-white. Plants raised from
seed sown iu gentle heat in spring, and planted
out in the month of May will flower during Sep-
tember and October. If desired to have the plant
in flower at an earlier period, seed should be sown
in August or September, and wintered in a green-
house. Ipomopsis elegaus succeeds in a warm and
dryish soil. Last year I grew it well on a light
gravelly soil, in spite of the drought. English
seedsmen do not appear to catalogue the plant, or
perhaps they include it under a different name.
Janv s Baxter, Boldre Grange Gardens, Lymingtoii.

OXALIS UERXUA.

This pretty species of Wood Sorrel is a useful
subject for filling up and brightening small recesses
in the flower-garden or on the shady side of
rockeries. It produces decumbent, fleshy stems,
a foot or more long, bearing trifoliate, light green
leaves, and bright yellow flowers, a little larger than
those of O. floribunda, in great profusion. The
plant produces small browu tubers in the axils of

February 18, 1S99.]

THE GAB LEXERS' CHRONICLE.

101

the leaves, which may be collected, stored in dry
sand, and planted out in April of the following
year, choosing a damp situation for them ; the stems
are of annual duration. Although introduced about
the middle of the last century, it does not appear to
have been cultivated to any extent. A few years
ago tubers of this plant were imported under the
misnomer "Bermuda Buttercups." Although no
mention is made of this species in the early floras
of the Canary Isles, it now covers large tracts of
wild pasturage iu Grand Canary, it having been

summer reaches a height of 6 to 9 feet. This rapid
growth, and the handsome and remarkable foliage,
renders the plant, and similarly M. bipinnatilida,
very valuable in the flower-garden. The leaves
have a length of 27 inches, with a width of IS
inches. They are opposite, stalked, and double-
feathered ; rough, hairy, and serrated at the edges.
The plant is raised by means of cuttings, which are
taken in the winter from plants started in heat.
Cuttings of young wood root readily. " Wiener //lux.
irhif Garten Zeitung" for January.

house was almost as gay with blooms as that pho-
tographed. At the present time the Dendrobiums
are in flower, and the Orchids generally, under the
cultural care of Mr. Shill, are very satisfactory.

Trees and Shrubs.

» . ■ -
EL.K AGNUS
AMONG the most useful of hardy evergreen
shrubs are the species of Ekeaguus, and the close

Fig. 41. — view in the cattleya-hucse of gait,

LAW SCH0E1ELD.

introduced there from the Cape ; and :o
prolific is the plant, that quite 90 per cent, of the
fodder cut in winter in the damp districts consists
of this species of Oxalis. It lias not proved hardy
ii this country, i' of frost being the limit the
tubers have withstood unharmed. It may prove
hardy in the extreme south-west, but is likely to
bacome a pest wherever it is established. 67. Ii. M.

MONTANOA HESACLEIFOLIA.
There are a number of ornamental plauts very
effective iu groups, or solitary on the lawn, but
which, unfortunately, have fallen more or less into
neglect. To these belongs the above-named plant,
a native of Mexico, which during the course of the

OK0HID-HOUSE AT NEW HALL
HEY.

In tig. 41, we hava reproduced a photograph,
taken in November last, showing the interior of
the Cattleya-house of Captain Law - Schofield, at
Rawtenstall, near Manchester. At that date the
house presented a wonderful show of flower, the
principal species represented being C. labiata, C.
Caskelliana, C. x Mautini, and other Cattleyas ;
also many La-lias, of which L. pumila was very
fine. Among Cypripediums, the hybrids C. x
Schofieldianum, C. x Lawrebel, and C. x Arthur-
ianum were conspicuous. The collection at New
Hall Hey is a very flue one, and an adjoining

allied genera Hippophae and Shepherdia. Not only
air they hardy, but they will grow in almost any
soil, and do not suffer so much from the smoke
of great cities as many other plants do.

The Hippophae, or sea Buck-thorn, is common on
some parts of the Kentish coast, and sometimes
forms large copses, as along the Isar near Munich,
and in the Rhone valley. Its silvery leaves, relieved
by brown scales, are very effective, and the golden
berries are very showy. Planters should remember
that the plant is dioecious, that is, that the male
flowers are on one plant, the female on another.
We often get complaints from purchasers that their
shrubs do not produce berries ; no doubt because
they have purchased male plants only. As it is

102

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February IS, 1899.

very difficult, if not impossible, to distinguish the
male from the female plant when not in flower,
nurserymen should carefully mark their plauts
when they have the opportunity, and thus be
enabled to supply their customers with the two
sexes. We do not know if anyone has ever tried
to fgraft the male upon the female bush, but we
strongly advise that the experiment should be
rnadt'.

The cultivated forms of Elieagnus are mostly of
Japanese origin, aud those " curiosity-loving people "
have sought and perpetuated many varieties which
have found their way into our nurseries. Mr.
Scapelhorn sends us sprays of some of the more
showy varieties, from which we select the following
for uotice —

Elieagnus reflexa aureo-varif.gata.

A straggling shrub with axillary spines of about
the same length as the leaf-stalk. The leaf-blades
are about 4 inches long by 2 inches broad, oblong,
pointed at both ends, wavy, coriaceous, dark green
at the margins, disc heavily blotched with golden
variegation, under - surface concolorous, cream-
coloured, densely beset with stellate scales ; nerves
brown.

E. REFLEXA ARGENTEO-VARIEGATA.

Similar to the preceding in habit, but the leaves
are smaller, more wavy, and the creamy-white
variegation is contined to the margin, the disc
being of a deep greeu colour.

E. HORTENSIS VAR. ANGI'STIKOLIA.

A spiuy shrub, thickly clothed with silvery scales.
The shortly-stalked leaves are about H inch long
by -£ inch in width, linear-oblong, rounded at the
base, and slightly so at the tip, greenish above,
silvery beneath.

One of the North American species of Elieagnus
is noticeable for its fruit, which is borne on long,
slender, pendulous stalks, and is eaten by those
who like it. A figure of this species was given in
our columns in 1873, p. 1014.

The Week's Work.

FORESTRY.

By A. C. Forbes.

The Home Nursery. — There are few estates on
which planting is more or less au annual affair
which do not possess a home-nursery in some form
or another. It may either take the shape of a
carefully-laid-out piece of ground, provided with
walks, shelter-hedges, and sheds for seeds, tools,
&c, or it may simply be some out-of-the-way
corner fenced round with wire-netting, and used as
a depot during the planting and subsequent filling-
up of a large plantation. From the forester's point
of view the former type is the most desirable, not
only on accouut of its general utility, but also as a
sort of experimental station in raising and propagating
trees and shrubs, which is always interesting work
to a culturist of any kind. No doubt many
public nurserymen consider home-nurseries more or
less detrimental to their own interests ; but unless
they are worked upon a large scale, we believe
that they enter very little, if at all, into competi-
tion with the nursery trade generally, more espe-
cially where economy is studied ; for the home
nursery is not always an economic concern directly,
if indirectly. It is only under very favourable
circumstances that the work of sowing, bedding-
out, cleaning, kc. , can be done anything like
so cheaply on a private estate as it is done in a
public nursery ; nor can that amount of atten-
tion be given to the work when it is only one
of many jobswhich make up the duties of an estate
forester's staff. In nine cases out of ten it will lie
found that the bulk of the plants used in making
au ordinary plantation can be purchased from a
public nursery at less cost than they could be raised
from seed or even seedliugs in a home nursery. It
is, of course, not an easy matter to estimate the
cost per thousand of raising any particular kind of
tree iu a home nursery, aud we doubt very much if

the public nurseryman is iu a much better position
to do so either, except in a general way. All that
can be done is to put the rent of the land, labour,
and general expenses against the value of the stock,
based upon the current market prices of the dif-
ferent species and sizes grown. But it is impos-
sible to arrive at the exact percentage of profit or
loss for which the stockof each speciesis responsible,
although iu a general way it will be fouud that
those species most in demand, aud on which there
is the largest turnover, are the most profitable to
the nurseryman who grows them on a large scale,
and the least profitable to him who grows on a small
scale, because the former is able to make a
much larger profit at the same rate per thousand
than can the latter, the cost of producing the larger
number being relatively lower. The home nursery
cannot, therefore, fairly compete with a public
nursery, which grows a hundred plants, perhaps,
to every one that is raised in the former ; but over
and above the fact that a business on a large scale
can be carried on more economically than one on a
small scale, the home nursery is usually greatly
handicapped in the way of labour. Anyone
acquainted with the routine of a large forest-tree
nursery, is familiar with the cheap and rapid
method adopted in bedding out seedlings and small
transplants. Chiefly done Ivy piece-work, at so
much per line or thousand, a couple of men with
women or boys soon make short work of putting
out forty or fifty thousand seedlings. Put a couple
of ordinary estate labourers at the same work, aud
pay them by the day, and the number they plant
in an eight-hour day can usually be counted with-
out any great strain upon the eyes. Speaking
from painful experience, we invariably find that
the amount of work done in the home nursery in
this direction varies inversely with the number of
men employed. If a man is working alone, not
more than the regulation 50 per cent, of time is
wasted ; but if two are together, the processes
of levelling the soil, setting out the line, and
opening the trench give rise to so much dis-
cussion and argument, that the extra mau is rather
a loss than a gain. The fact is, the average
labourer rarely works hard at easy work, or work
which requires dexterity aud nimbleness rather than
strength; and it has often struck us that the home-
nursery ou an estate is somehow or other associated
with that class of work which cau be done at any
time, and which fills the gaps that occur between
busy seasons. For the above reasons, we are not
greatly in favour of the home-nursery growing large
quantities of ordinary forest-trees, unless particular
advantages or particular reasons exist for growing a
particular species, large numbers of which are used
on the estate. Carried out on a large scale, and by
men who take an interest in and have become
accustomed to the work, it may prove more pro-
fitable, as we shall hereafter endeavour to show.
(To bi Continued.)

TEE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Telbury, Gloucester

Early-flowering Shrulm. — The mild winter has
beeu favourable for these ou walls and it: the open.'
One of the earliest of these is Jasminum nudi-
florum, which, planted on walls having different
aspects has kept up a continuous display of yellow
flowers. A plant of Chimonanthus fragraus, planted
against a wall with a west aspect, produces here,
annually,an abundance of flowers, cream-coloured and
purple, which are fragrant ; Ligustrum (Lonicera '!)
fragrantissimum, grown as a shrub or trained tip the
stem of a tree, has delicate white pendent flowers ;
Azira microphylla is quite hardy here, forming
bushes 8 feet high and G feet in diameter, the in-
conspicuous flowers attracting attention by their
sweet Vanilla-like perfume ; Osmanthus ilicifolius,
resembling a small Holly in growth, produces
small white flowers; Andromeda floribunda is
a beautiful shrub, with pretty white campanulas
flowers, and requires to 'be grown in a peaty
soil. Hamamelis arborea is a tree of low growth,
and the branches are now covered with beautiful,
though small, bright yellow blossoms, villi
deep crimson calyces ; Daphne laureola has
clusters of flowers of a greenish-yellow colour,
in the axils of the upper leaves; D. Meze-
reum, with its deep red or white flowers, is effective
when planted on elevated positions in the rockery ;
tlarrya elliptica, with its loug, pendulous catkins
of yellowish flowers and stiff grey-green leaves, is
a handsome object against a wall or as a bush or a

hedge ; Laurustinus strieta (fragrans) is good grown
as a free standing shrub, or a plant against a wall,
opening its white waxy flowers at this season.
This variety is more hardy than the common form,
aud the leaves are more leathery. All of these
shrubs may now be planted, and the most of them
will succeed on good ordinary garden soil.

Auriculas {Alpine). — Plants that were raised
from seed sown last July, pricked off in boxes, and
wintered in cold frames are, under the influence
of the mild weather, starting into growth, and
they should be placed outside, and gradually har-
dened off, preparatory to being planted out. See
that old-established plauts are made firm iu the
ground, and any that may be showing signs of a
decaying stem, aud are. worth perpetuating, should
have the suckers taken off and inserted in sandy
soil, under a haudlight, to root, which they will
soon do.

l:< deling Plants. — Sow seeds of such subtropical
plants as Melianthus major, Albizzia lophantha
(Acacia lophautha), Eucalyptus Globulus, Nicotianas
colossea, atropurpurea, grandiflora, . macropliylla,
gigantea, and Wigandioides ; Solanums robustum
aud Warscewiczii ; Grevillea robusta, Abuti-
lous, &c. Sow also, in mild warmth, seed of
Verbena hybrida. Verbena seed is sold iu packets
of distinct colours, aud it almost invariably comes
true to tint. Plauts from seed are more robust i n
growth, aud produce more flowers than when grown
from cuttings. The seed pots should be filled with
light sandy soil made Arm and level, and the seeds
slightly covered with soil, aud afforded plenty of
water. Place the seed-pots iu a temperature of 70°.
Cuttings of Ageratum, Coleus Versehaffelti, Iresine,
Heliotropes, Fuchsias, Agath.ea ccelestis, aud yellow
and white-flowered Marguerites, should now be
taken, cutting them with a sharp knife just below
a joint, and inserting them in small pots filled with
a mixture of saudy-loam, leaf-mould, aud sand,
plunging the pots to the rim iu cocoa-nut fibre-
refuse or line coal-ashes, over a bottom heat of 75°,
and keep close aud shaded till roots form.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By 11. Maui, ii \m, Gardener t" tin- Earl of Straffokd,
Wrotham Park, Barnet

/'< OS.- As soon as the soil has got into a proper
workable condition, a sowing of such second early
Peas as Criterion, Dr. Maclean, Stratagem, Tele-
phone, and others, may be made thinly, iu shallow,
flat drills, drawn at 6 to S feet apart, according to
the height the variety attains. Early Potatos may
be plauted between, or seed of Turnips, Lettuce, or
that of any other quick-growing dwarf plauts sown.
There is nothing to be gained by very close cropping ;
afford, therefore, plenty of space to allow of each
plaut growing sturdily and robustly.

Broad Beans. — In the present mouth make a full
sowing of Broad Beans, choosing the larger-podded
varieties, such as Bunyard's and Veitch's Longpods,
which are excellent croppers, aud if Beans are liked
at the best table sow Seeds of G reen Windsor, which
has the best flavour of any. Sowings of Beans
should be made on well-manured land, in either
double or siugle rows, fully 3 feet apart, each seed-
beau being put into the drills or dibbled at (i inches
apart. Mice of various species are fond of Beans,
aud must be trapped or hindered in some way from
devouring the seed-beans. Slugs are troublesome
sometimes, but a dusting of the tops with lime and
soot will save the plants from their ravages. The
Peas suffer from a too decided preference of the
hedge-sparrow, aud if no Pea-guards are available
let Hues of cotton be drawn tightly above the rows,
at about 3 inches above the plants. As the latter
grow the supporting sticks should lie lifted further
out of the ground, so as to keep the line of plants
clear of the threads.

Shallots and Garlic. The bulbs should be planted
as soon as the land is dry enough, pressing in good-
sized bulbs of the tiist 2 inches deep in the soil ;
but planting the cloves of the second, not the
entire bulb, and in doing this let the top just
appear above the soil. If the land be heavy and
retentive, the bulbs should not be pressed in eo
deeply, but only deep enough to keep them from being
lifted out by the action of frost, aud the upward
pressure of the roots. One foot of space allowed
is deemed sufficient between the rows, and S inches
from bulb to bulb ; the ground for this crop should
lie in good heart, aud be made moderately firm.

Keuki-auv IS, 1S99,]

THE QA E DE NEBS' CH R 0 NI GL E.

103

The bulbs ou light land and in southern shires may
bo loft in the ground for two years.

Hubs.— II the Thyme plants are few, seed may
be sown in pans, and hastened in growth under
glass, but not in a high temperature. Keep the
plants sturdy, and plant them out in suitable
weather, and after due hardening off. The herb
border should be overhauled, aud deficiencies
therein made good. Keep the whole of those that
aiv ii] daily use in a quarter most convenient to
get at. Tarragon, Mint, &c., may be lifted, and
the roots replanted in a fresh spot. Hint quickly
grows into fine clumps, as also Tarragon, when
young pieces are pulled up and dibbled in at 1 foot
apart when tho growth is under G inches in height.

Strut Basil, and pot Marjoram should lie sown
in pans, and placed in heat to bo used in a tender
state ; aud later a large sowing should be made for
planting. out purposes. Basil being a native of the
tropics' requires a warm house, and to be carefully
afforded water, and no crowding permitted, or
wholesale damping-off will occur.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the BowaoeR Lady HowATtti

DE Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Tt coma Smithi is a very serviceable winter-
flowering plant, producing trusses of orange-yellow
coloured, tubular-shaped flowers at the beginning
of the winter, and remaining a considerable
time in bloom. Old plants which have been
resting after flowering may be cut back and
placed in an intermediate temperature, where
they will soon make new growth, and if it is
intended to increase the stock, shoots may be
taken off wheu from 3 to 4 inches in length,
and either inserted singly in thumb-pots, or eight
together in a 48 - sized pot, and plunged in a
hot bed or propagating- frame. When the cuttings
are sutiicieutly rooted, pot them into small pots,
affording a compost consisting of two parts loam,
one part leaf -soil, aud a little sand ; when the roots
appear at the sides of the pots, the plants may be
transferred to a house where the temperature is
about ooJ, and when well-rooted, they may be
placed in 5-inch pots, adding then a little rotten-
manure to the soil. When well established in
these pots, air freely, and finally stand them out-
of-doors when danger of frost is past. When old
plants which have been cut back, have made a
couple of inches of new growth, the balls may be
reduced considerably, aud the plants potted iuto
as small pots as possible, aud when new loots have
been made, a larger pot should be afforded.

Bouvardias which have been rested, should now
be cut-back, if that has not already been done,
and the plauts given an intermediate tempera-
ture. When they have made an inch of new
growth, turn them out of the pots, and remove the
greater part of the old soil with a pointed stick,
placing them iu pots only sufficiently large to
admit of an inch of soil being placed around the
reduced balls. The easiest method of propagation
is by means of root-cuttings, and to provide these,
the requisite number of strong old plauts should be
selected. Shake the soil from the roots, and cut
the strongest of these into pieces about an
inch aud a half in length. Fill a pan, or
pots, to within an inch and a half of the rim,
with sandy soil; upon this lay the root-cuttings,
and cover them with half an inch of soil. Afford
a watering, and place them under a bell-glass in
the stove, or plunge in a hot-bed. The cuttings
will soon make roots, aud throw up shoots, which
should be slopped above the hrst pair of leaves ;
aud shortly afterwards pot them iuto thumbs, using
a compost consisting of two parts loam aud one
part leaf-soil, with plenty of sand added. A Herd
them a moist, warm atmosphere for a time, and
stop the shoots frequently, so as to produce a
liUsliy habit, shifting them iuto larger pots when
well rooted, aud finally potting them into 5-inch or
6-inch pots, according to the strength of the plants.
Towards the end of the spring they may be trans-
ferred to a cold pit, gradually increasing the amount
of ventilation, aud continuing the stopping of the
shoots until July, by which time the plauts should
be well furnished. Where large quantities of cut
flowers are required, old plants may be started as
recommended above, and grown on until towards
the end of the spring, when they may be planted
out in prepared soil in a pit provided with a hot-
water pipe, into which heat may be turned when
necessary.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. II. Youno, Orchid Grower I" Sir Frederk k Win .
Bait., Clare Lawn. East Sheen.
SeZenipt din, ns it, ill their hybrids. — The stove
species, S. longifolium, Roezli, caricinum, Boissieri-
anum, Lindleyauum, aud Sargontianuin may now
be afforded fresh materials, viz., good turfy peat
aud sphagnum-moss, used in the proportion of two
of the former to one of the latter. The rhizomes
of the first two species have usually an upward
trend, and when re-potting is not required, the
new material should be packed well up to the base,
so that the roots may enter if as soon as tiny
emerge from the rhizome. Overgrown specimens
should be divided into pieces of a suitable size
rather than be re-planted intact, in a bigger pot.
I'ots without perforations in the sides, except at
the very bottom, should be used for this section,
as they need large and frequeut applications of
water during the greater portion of the year, and
also at this present season, that a large mass of
drainage is necessary. Selenipedium caricinum, one
of the parcnts'of S. Dominianum, is like that hybrid,
rather prone to damp off if water beallowedto
collect in the growths, hence, care iu watering
becomes a necessity, more especially in the winter,
when evaporation is slow. S. Schlimi, and S.
caudatum, and the hybrids with an infusion of their
strain, grow best iu an intermediate temperature,
aud, like the preceding Bpecies, they should have
especial care when affordiug water. The first -
Darned should be undisturbed so lo»g as it has
sufficient root-room, and the drainage is in good
order, affordiug the plants an annual top-dressing,
and removing as much of the old materials as may
be picked from among the roots without damaging
them. A larger proportion of sphagnum - moss
should be used for this species, and with an added
quantity of fine crocks. When repotting becomes
uecessary, lef the base stand well above the rim of
the pot, which in this instance should consist of
on, of moderate depth, or a shallowish pan, having
perforations at the sides. S. caudatum should not
be disturbed at this date if the flower-spikes are
showing, but the surface may be freshened up with
the following ingredients, peat two parts, fibrous
Loam one part, and sphagnum-moss one part,
sprinkling in some- finely-broken crocks as the
operation proceeds. When repotting it, more than
hill till the pots with drainage, and keep tho
plant below the rim. Most of these are prom- to
attacks from insects, and means must be adopted
to keep them clean and free from injury from this

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. II. Loss,
Rood Ashinn, Trowbridge.

Ft nihil:/ Pints. — During mild weather it is
practicable to maintain a very uniform temperature,
but if frost or cold searching winds prevail, it will
be prudent to allow the temperature to decrease by
a few degrees rather than use excessive firing to
maintain a given temperature. From 70° to 75° by
night, and a rise of 10° by day will be sufficient,
allowing slightly higher or lower figures according
to external conditions. By the increased tempera-
tures and brighter sunshine, more frequeut damping
of the floors and other surfaces will be needed, and on
bright days light over-head syringing may be given
early in the day. Afford root waterings as often as
may be needed, and liquid manures or guano dis-
solved at tin- rate of an ounce to the gallon will lie
useful. Ventilate on every fitting occasion, if only
for a brief period. Any plauts that are throwing
fruits, should be afforded a steady bottom-heat of 85°.
For this purpose, tree leaves or tanner's bark may be
used. The latter, if fresh, will need to be watched
that excessive heat may be anticipated and pre-
vented. A loosening of the pots will often be found
sufficient to prevent injury to the roots, should the
material become too hot. If it is impossible' to
obtain the required quantity of fermentiug-materials
to replenish the whole bed, the warmer end may
be given this alteration, arid a selection of the most
forward plants be plunged therein, so as to
accelerate their ripeuing.

Suceessional Plants. — Make preparations for the
shifting of these into larger pots by removing under
cover, and preferably in a warm place, the requisite
amount of turfy-loam. This may be broken up,
and an addition be made to it of bone-meal in the
proportion of a 6-inch potful to each barrow-load
of soil. If the turf breaks too finely, it is better to
pass it through a sieve so as to remove the finer
portions. To loam of a heavy' nature, broken char-

coal, lime-rubble, or coarse sand may be added,
which will render it more easy of penetration by the
roots, aud less likely to retain too much water. The
pots, whether for final potting or not, should bo
perfectly clean and dry at the time the work of
potting is commenced. The exact time of potting
may be decided by individual convenience, but the
mouth of March is generally conceded to be a suitable
one. This rule, however is subject to modification
according to the condition of the plauts themselves,
aud the provision made for plunging them. Before
the final stage of the work of repotting and plung-
ing is reached, the structures themselves should be
put in order, by well washing the roof, and lime-
washing tile walls.

Such is that aio well rooted may be shifted
at any time into pots of larger size, and any
thai are not satisfactory at the roots may be
shaken out of the stale soil, and replaced in the
same - sized pots in fresh compost. To poorly-
rooted or weakly suckers, a little leaf- mould mixed
iu the potting soil is helpful. Suckers should be
removed from fruiting-plauts as fast as they arrive
at ii suitable size. Place them in pots of small
size, aud afford a steady bottom-heat of 75', and
very lit lie wafer until roots form freely.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Hiau'.iN, Gardener, Dropmore, Maidenhi ad.
Peach and Wectonne-b-eea. — The pruning and
training of these trees should not be deferred much
longer, as the mild weather now likely to prevail
will hasten the flowering period. Assuming that
the trees were loosened from the walls some time
ago, iu beginning the training and pruning the main
branches should first be fastened in their proper
position, that is radially, and then the smaller
branches aud shoots should be examined, and those
not required removed. If the trees received atten-
tion after the fruits were gathered, and the shoots
which had borne fruit were removed, the pruning to
be carried out at this date will be a very small matter.
The aim of the cultivator should be the retention
of the finest bearing wood, therefore old growths
as far as possible, having regard to covering the
space, should be removed. Shoots not required to
extend the tree, and all short growths growing at
right angles with the wall, may be closely spurred,
the resulting shoots being closely pinched during
the growing season. Theleading shoots should be,
in all cases, laid in at their full length, it not being
desirable to shorten these, for the best buds are
always found towards the points, and the growth
from this one always starts away in a more direct
line than if shortening is practised. The crowding-
in of young shoots should be resolutely avoided,
the least space between them being 3 inches, ami
and 5 to 6 would be better. The heavy cropping
of a young flee often leads to weakly growth and
small fruits the next year, and in such case severer
pruning aud the shortening back of young weakly
growths are uecessary operations. Sometimes
these weak shoots may be cut back almost close to
tho base, aud long ones, with but few fruit-buds,
removed altogether. If the border is become
exhausted, it should be top-dressed with uew
loam aud bone-meal, previously removing some
of the surface-soil. Assumiug that the trees
have already been syringed with a mixture
of oda and potash as previously advised, no
further dressing of the brandies will be required :
but if they have not been so treated, let the trees
lie syringed with a mixture of petroleum and soap-
suds, in the proportion of a wineglassful of the
former to 3 gallons of the latter, keeping it well
stirred during the operation. Before the traiuii g
is begun, nail-holes and crevices should, if possible,
be filled up with cement or mortar, the more readily
to keep insect pesls in cheek. I prefer the use of
nails and shreds to that of a wired wall for on I -
door Beaches, but whichever is employed, tin-
shoots require equal care. Where the forinir
method is iu use, the shreds should be cut
small aud neat for the young shoots, and care tak( u
in nailing that the nails does not touch the shoot?,
otherwise, iu swelling later, the presence of t
against the rind will be sure to cause gumming,
and the loss of the shoot. Equal care is required
when tying to wires, and whatever material is used,
it should be passed twice round the wire bcfoie
tyiug, which will the better secure the shoot, and
prevent its pressing directly ou the wire. If the
walls have been recently wired with new galvanised
wire, it will be advisable to afford the wire a coat
of oil-paint or thick ime-wash.

104

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[FEBRUARY 18, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

Illustrations.— 27m; Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable, for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

THURSDAY, Feb.

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY, Feb. 23

f Annual General Meeting of the Kew
28-! Guild, in tho Garden Library,
( at 8 p.m.

SALES.

("Roses, Gloxinias, Japanese and
Feb. 20-! English-grown Lilies, &c, at Pro-
\^ theroe & Morris' Roon.s.
Hardy Perennials, Asters, Car-
nations, Tigridias, &c, at Pro-
theroe & Morris' Rooms.
Feb. 2lX Sale of the "Willow Brook" Col-
lection of Established Orchids,
by order of D. A. Salamon, Esq.,
at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.
/Japanese Lilies, Palm Seeds, Tube-
Fef. 22 -[ roses, Continental Plants, &c,

FRIDAY,

lnSl'S,

at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.
Hardy Border Plants and Bulbs,
in variety, at Protheroe & Morris'
Rooms.

/Roses, Carnations, Hardy Pi-ren
I nials, &c, at Protheroe & Morris,
Feb. 24 < Rooms.

I Imported and Established Orchids,
\ at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, tor
the period February 6-11, 1S'J9. Height above sea-level
24 feet.

Tem

Tempera-

Z

the Air.

1899.

a

X

Soil at9 a.m.

H

a

H

ION OF

At 9 a.m.

>
<

B
O

&

i

ft

03
V

■a

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40-044-0

30-0

Mux. 0

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39-5 36-8 45-8 35-6J0- 41

37-0

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Tues. 7

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46-5 45-8 50-236-0 0-13

38-0

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Wed. S

.s.w.

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Thu. 9

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Sat. 11

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12-044-3 38-9

1 1

RemarAs.— Rain fell on six days, Monday's being very cold,
and mixed with snow and sleet; wind changing from south-
east to south-west.' On Friday the sun was very warm, thu
thermometer registering 64° in the shade.

Average Temperature lor the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick. — 39 T.

Actual Temperatures : —

London.— February 15 (12 p.m.): Max., 52'; Min., 45°.
Provinces. — February 15 (12 p.m.) : Max., 48°, Bath ;
Min., 42°, Cane Clear.

The Royal ^HE RePort 0I the Society pub-
Horticultural lished in this journal on Jan. 28,
Society. p 58( anci t]le remarks made by
•Sir Tkevok Lawrence, Bart., its President,
at the annual general meeting held on Tuesday
last, should prove of an exceedingly gratifying
nature to the Fellows and friends of the Society
in particular, and to horticulturists all over the
country.

The meeting on Tuesday was most amicable,
there being an entire absence of contentious
or disputatious features, a pleasing and remark-
able fact to be chronicled when account is taken
of the proceedings at some general meetings in
former years. We are happy in the knowledge
that the Society has been skilfully piloted into
a secure position, that it is in receipt of a much

larger income than formerly, and that this in-
come is being strenuously devoted to the
interests of gardeners, and of gardening in its
widest sense.

At a time, not so long ago, there were grave
fears that the financial straits of the Society
would have necessitated the curtailing or
renunciation of the gardens at Chiswick.
Now, however, it is pointed out that these
gardens are too small for the increasing
needs of the Society. In any case, the soil of
the garden is greatly exhausted, so far as expe-
rimental purposes are concerned ; it is, more-
over, too shallow, and of so gravelly a nature,
that everything suffers in seasons of drought.
There are, however, twenty unexpired years of
the lease, during which time the place must be
retained, and the garden structures be kept in a
decent state of repair. This occujiancy of Chis-
wick for a long term of years to come need
not, however, stand in the way of the Society
acquiring more and better land, not far distant,
for trial purposes.

From Chiswick to Westminster is but a step,
and we find from the President's remarks, as
we were ourselves cognisant, that the meetings,
or exhibitions, as they may now be called, at
the Drill Hall, in James Street, have grown, and
continue to grow, in popularity with the right
sort of people — those who are fond of a garden
and a greenhouse, and who find their greatest
pleasure and solace therein. The exhibits grow
in variety, and consequently in interest, owing
doubtless to the appearance of the amateur and
professional gardener exhibitor in greater num-
bers, whilst those from the commercial gardener
or nurseryman do not diminish in number or
extent, although we think the latter class should
be somewhat limited in the area occupied, in
justice to the claims of other exhibitors.

The recent re-arrangement of the Lindley
Library, and the publication of the catalogue
of books and publications therein contained,
received notice from the President, who laid
emphasis on the feelings of gratitude evinced
by the Fellows of the Society for the exertions
of Dr. Maxwell T. Masters and his assistant,
Mr. Hutchinson, in connection with the re-
arrangement of the library and the formation of
the catalogue. The library, he said, was con-
stantly increasing, and the time had come for
the appointment of a librarian, who would keep it
in good order ; but with regard to this and cog-
nate matters we must refer our readers to the
report itself on p. 109.

In regard to medals awarded for meritorious
exhibits, it was, he said, notorious that some of
these wore not, now, actually given, owing to the
great cost the doing of this would entail ; and
it is proposed to have a smaller gold medal
struck, and give this absolutely to the fortunate
exhibitors.

In conclusion, it may be said that the annual
general meeting afforded an example of una-
nimity, friendliness, and general accord on the
part of all present, boding well for the future
of the Society.

injury to Hyde We are informed by a corres-
Park ami Ken- pondent resident in the neigh-
sington Gardens. b,mrhood of Hyde Park that it
is proposed to cut a trench 6 feet deep by
5 feet wide through the loamy soil of Kensing-
ton Gardens and Hyde Park, from end to end,
in which to lay water-mains. Our experience
of cutting deep trenches through land on which
trees and shrubs are growing, teaches us that
disastrous consequences are certain to ensue ;
and in view of irreparable losses in trees, and the

extreme and increasing difficulty of establishing
trees and shrubs in London, immediate steps
ought to be taken to prevent the perpetration
of this act of Vandalism. It is quite unneces-
sary to carry the trench through the Park and
Gardens, as for a trifling extra outlay the pipes
could be laid in the high road or under the
pavement. There may exist the belief that
by laying them in the park the local rates will
not be levied. Besides the certain injury that
will occur to vegetation, there will be the
nuisance from the unsightly works in progress,
and practically a year's enjoyment of the park
and gardens will be lost to the public. The inhabi-
tants of the adjacent residential districts in-
tend to memorialise the Right Hon. A. Akers
Douglas, M.P., First Commissioner of Works,
representing to him the injurious effects of the
scheme of laying down a line of mains through
the entire length of the northern side of Ken-
sington Gardens and Hyde Park, and asking
him to place his veto upon it.

CYPHOMANDRA BETACEA. — Our illustration
(fig. 42, on p. 105) shows a fine plant of the Tree
Tomato, bearing a plentiful crop of fruits, iu the
temperate-house, Royal Gardeus, Kew. The tree
blooms at Kew during July and August, and the
photograph from which our present illustration
has been prepared was taken in October last. In
the issue of the Gardemertt Chronicle for March Id,
1887, p. 383, was published a figure representing
part of a shoot of this species, bearing leaves aud
a bunch of three fruits, together with a letter from
Dr. Morris describing the plant as grown in
Jamaica and other West Indian colonies. The
plant is a native of Peru, where it is known by the
name ofj Tomato de la Paz. The fruit when ripe is of
a rich orange colour, and measures about 2 to 2.|
inches loug, and 2 inches in diameter. They may
he used exactly the same as the fruits of the ordinary
Tomato, and a preserve is also obtained from them.
The plaut is not hardy in England, [but as our
figure fully demonstrates, it succeeds splendidly iu
a house that affords little more than protection
from frost. Dr. Morris says that Cyphomaudra
hetacea flourishes best iu the hilly districts of the
tropics, with a mean annual temperature of 68°
Fahr.

The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent In-
stitution.— The proprietors of the Journal oj
Horticulture, per K. Milligan Hogg, Esq., have
given a douatiou of £50 towards the sum required
to complete the Victorian Era Fund. Mr. Alex.
Dean has also given £5.

The Surveyors' Institution. — The next

ordinary general meeting will be held on Monday,
February 20, when a paper will be read by
Mr. J. L. Crouch (professional associate), on " The
Mauagemeut aud Valuatiou of Brickfields." The
chair will be taken at S o'clock. It has bem
decided, ou the invitation of (lie Somerset, Glou-
cester, ar.d North Wills provincial committee, to
hold the next country meeting at Bristol, on
April 20 and 27. The iiist day will Le devoted to
papers aud discussions, with a diuuer in the
eveniug ; the second day to exclusions to various
places of interest iu Bristol and its neighbourhood.
Full particulars will be issued a little later on.
University degrees : members who are graduates of
auy of the recognised universities of the Uuitcd
Kingdom are requested to intimate the fact to the
secretary of the Institution, iu order that the same
maybe indicated in the next issue of the list of
members.

WOODLICE. — These sometimes troublesome
insects can be poisoned by placiug sherd Potatos
puffed over with Paris Green or London Purple
about the Mushioom-house, Melon frames, aud
other garden structures; but let not their poisouous
character be ignored, or terrible results might
ensue.

February 18, 1899.]

THE GA RDENE R S' GHR ONI CL E.

105

Fig, 42. — iyi'iiomandka betacea in the temperate iioi\se, kew. (see r, 101.

106

THE GAR DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[February 18, 1S99.

Testimonial to Mr. F. Lee.— Ou the 13th
iust. a testimonial was presented to Mr. F. Lee,
who is retiring from the position of head gardener
at Lyuford Kail, Brandon, Norfolk, a position he
lias held for the past thirty years. The Lynford
eitate having recently been sold, and Mr. Lee
being about to sever his long connection therewith,
his very numerous friends in the district resolved
to make this opportunity the occasion for an
expression of the general respect in which Mr. Lee
has been held. The presentation took the form of
a silver-plated hot-water jug iu the form of a
watering-can, with an embossed shield upon one
side eugraved with a suitable inscription. A cheque
for £47 accompanied the gift. From a report we
have of the meeting at which the presentation
was made, it is evident that the proceedings were
most enthusiastic, and the expressions of respect
to Mr. Lee extremely cordial.

Open Spaces.— Miss Octavia Hii.l, on Wed-
nesday, February 1, delivered an address on "Open
Spaces," at the Portman Rooms. The lecturer
stated that anyone who kuew the life of a working
man and his family in London knew how sorely a
little garden was missed, and it became a necessity
to provide as many small public gardens as possible
near the homes of the people. These gardens, when
scattered, had the advantage of opening breathing
spaces for the blocks of buildings around. The
usefulness of the parks and metropolitan commons
was manifest, aud in the management of larger
open spaces on the outskirts of London a deeply-
rooted desire would have to be met that portions
of land should be preserved in a wild and natural
state. If it was necessary to mark the boundary,
let it be done with trees or hedges, not with iron
fences. In 1888 a map was prepared showing the
proportion of population to open spaces within a
six and a four-mile radius of Charing Cross. In
the western semi-circle there was one acre to every
6S2 of population, while on the eastern side there
was only one acre to every 7,481. It was then
realised that it would be hopeless to attempt to
rectify this discrepancy within the four-mile radius,
and attention was drawn to the importance of
securing spaces within the six-mile limit. Since
that time many acres had been added to the heri-
tage of Londoners by private donors and local
bodies. Still, the map showed that in the north-
west quadrant there were 1,559 acres of open
spaces; in the southwest 1,554; while in the
north-east there were 988 ; and iu the south-east
665. The discrepancy was large, aud pointed to
the necessity for some central body taking the
initiative iu selecting areas for purchase. Though
every opeu space was helpful to the poor of
London, the tendency was for spaces to be acquired
in the richer part of the Loudon area. Not much
was now left within the six-mile radius, and,
happily, improved meaus of locomotion had takeu
the population from the crowded centre.' A critical
time had arrived when it was incumbent upon all
to unite in preserving the heritage of English
citizeos in commons and field-paths iu all parts of
the country. Indicating the various ways iu which
rights were filched from the public, Miss Hill
pointed out the means of defence by the powers of
pansh, district, and county couucils, aud men-
tioned the principal ageucics thiough which action
might be taken. Times.

Ghent Horticultural and Botanical
SOCIETY, ETC— On the occasion of the monthly
meeting of this Society iu the Casino, Ghent, on
Sunday, February 5, the jury awarded Certificates
of Merit as follows :— To Cattleya Trian.-ei, shown
by M. E. Coryn;. to Adiautum Bessonianum,
Kentia ornata, Phoenix canaiiensis gracilis, aud
Crinum Laurentio (Congo), shown by M. Ed.
Pynaert ; to Anthurium Andreanum bybridum,
shown by M. C. Petrick ; to Cattleya Trianffii
splendens, shown by L. Desmet-Duvivier (unani-
mously) ; to -Citrus sinensis aurco lniuginatis,
shown by M E. Lossy (unanimously) ; to Anthu-
rium Scherzerianum hybrids, shown by M. Louis

Desmet ; to a collection 'of buuehes of flowers of
Cyclamen persicum var. Papilio (by acclamation),
shown by M. Draps-Dom; to Kentia Buchenbergeri,
shown by MM. Desmet Freres (by acclamation) ;
to a work entitled, Mjmographie sur leu Oypripe-
dium, Seleuipediioii, < I Dropedium, by M. F. Desbois,
A Botanical Certificate was awarded to Deudrobium
species shown by M. L. Desmet-Dnvivier.

Fruit from the Cape. — The Dunvegan ( 'asth
has brought from the Cape of Gooel Hope 809
boxes of Teaehes, 22 boxes of Nectarines, 70 of
Pears, and 68 of Plums ; total, 969 boxes. The
whole of the fruit arrived in excellent condition,
and realised good prices. Peaches sold in shops
iu the City of London at 9rf. and 10</. each ;
iu the West End shops, at Is. to 1*. 'Ml. each.
There was a good demand for the Plums, and these
were sold at 6rf. to del. each. The Pears and Nec-
tarines were iu fair demand. An attempt to sell
some of the best Peaches by public auction met
with no success, and they were eventually sold
privately in Covent Gardeu Market.

FLOWERS IN SEASON.— Chinese Primulas have
been making a lovely show in the nurseries and
private gardens siuce Christmas. Mr. W. Bull,
New and Pare Plant Establishment, King's Load,
Chelsea, has brought to our notice a uumber of
blooms which represent fine strains in the single
and semi-double-flowered sections. Of the semi-
double varieties, Blushing Beauty, fulgens, aud ker-
mesina splendens, are very fine ; and among the
singles may lie mentioned P. alba oculata lutea,
marmorata kermesiua, light purple, with traces of
silver colour ; Mavis, carmine, with wavy petals ;
Garnet, deep crimson flowers, of moderate size ; and
two varieties representing shades in the colour that
among Primulas is generally termed blue. Cine-
raria flowers from the same establishment are types
of a strain of brilliantly-flowered varieties of good
form.

Herefordshire Association of Fruit-
Growers. — Mr. T. Wheeler Meats, Hou.
Secretary pro tern, of a society to be founded at
Hereford under the above title, kindly furnishes
particulars of the aims and objects of the same.
It has loug been felt that among the fruit-growers
of Herefordshire there is a great need for the
formation of some association which should watch
their interests and provide them with an oppor-
tunity of meeting at regular intervals to discuss
matters relative to fruit-growing and horticulture.
The couuty is particularly adapted to.fruit-growing,
aud yet the number of those who engage iu it at
the present time is exceedingly small in comparison
with other counties • and it is thought that this
method of uniting them will give a stimulus to
fruit-growing, from a commercial point of view,
which will be a benefit to the county. With a
view to furthering this suggestion, a public meeting
will be held at the Mitre Hotel, Hereford, ou
Wednesday, February 22, at 3 P.M., at which His
Worship the Mayor of Hereford has kindly con-
sented to preside. He will be supported by Jsir
James Bankin, Bart., M.P., Mr. C. W. Radcliffjs
Cooke, M.P., Mr. J. H. Arkwright, Mr. .r.
Riley, Mr. H. C. Bedpoe, Mr. Tichborije
Hinckks, and others.

Publications Received.— The Agricultural
Gazeth of Nem South Wales, December, 1898.—
Tijdschrifl roor Tuinbouw. — Beitrage zur kennthis
der Afrikanischen Horn (New Series), (published by
Hans Schinz, Zurich). — Orchid Review, February,
1899. — The Australian Agriculturist, Sydney,
January 9, 1899.— Plantas Europai, by Dr. K.
Rrichter, fasc. ii., tome ii. (W. Engelmaun,
Leipzig). — Bank* mid their Customers, by Effing-
ham Wilson (published by the same at Is., at the
Royal Exchange, London, E.C.). A very useful
lii i le publication for the information of both large
and small ' investors. Oniqut Journal Hdrti'coh
Jat.ouais, communications to be addressed a la
Sooicte' d'Horticulture du Japon, Shiutoini-cho,

Kyobashi, Tokyo. —Le Potager d'un Giarieux.
History, culture, and Uses, of 253 edible plants, by
A. Paillieux and D. Bois, Librarie Agricole de la
Maison Rustique, Paris.— -Dictioimaire Pratiqw.
Horticulture el d< Jardinage. — The Silva oj North
America, by Chas. Sprague Sargent, vol. xii.
(Houghton. Mifflin & Co., the Biverside Press,
Cambridge, Mass., U.S.A.)

Home Correspondence,

LARGER EXHIBITS.— I think objections might
be taken by others who are not actual exhibitors
to the increased number constituting a dish of
vegetables aud fruits proposed by "A. J. L.," ami
his arguments show a decided abseuee of practical
knowledge iu the matter. The extension proposed
by your correspondent, if carried out generally,
would iuvolve serious additional outlay in providing
space iu tents, &c. , and staging; and many societies
I know full well could tell "A. J. L." that those
items of expense are already a sufficiently heavy
burden on their resources. Eveu under existiug
conditions, those responsible for the ariangement
of exhibits find that all available space is fully
taxed. Where this is the state of matters, what
wisdom is there in making further difficulties by
proposing dishes where plates have previously
tilled the benches satisfactorily t and then, more-
over, to suggest higher prizes. Your correspon-
dent probably bolsters himself in the belii f
that some among the far-seeing members of the
horticultural world would agree with him ; but
if a census of opinion were obtained from such
a large body as that to which "A. J. L.'s"
suggestion appeals, I am sure he would find himself
among a small minority. I agree that visitors
and patrons should be duly remembered, but an
enhanced interest is not likely to accrue in the
direction thus advanced, and surely those who con-
tribute to the show's wealth and attractiveness ai e
also deserving of consideration. Has not " A. J. L.''
seen the splendid and uuiform effects in the arrange-
ment of the Koyal Horticultural Society's Annual
Show of fruit at the Crystal Palace? and can he
say that his proposal, if carried out, would lend
additional attractiveness to that. I for one do uot
believe that it would, but, on the contrary, lead t->
much los3 in effect, to say nothing of the larger
amount of labour required, lower standard of
quality, and fewer exhibitors. Iu short, the
suggestion made has nothing to recommend it.
II'. S.

TREES IN SMALL GARDENS.— The case reported
by you from South Australia at p. 26 is, indeed, an
interesting one, and concerns the small gardens of
tens of thousands of persons in this country. In
how many cases have uot tall-growing trees and
shrubs been planted at the edges of suburban gar-
dens, probably uot more than 20 feet wide, without
a thought being given to the ultimate result. In
a lew years, however, when these trees have reached
to a height of 20 feet, the branches extending half-
way over adjoining gardens, aud the roots ramify-
ing many feet from home, literally exhaust uot only
the owuer of the trees own ground, but that of his
neighbour : great harm is done', a great nuisance
is created, and uot less, much ill-feeling is engen-
dered. But there is also the grave evil that such
trees shut out from other gardens that which every
garden occupier is fully entitled to sunlight and
air. Thus, during the summer months the trees
exclude the sun. whilst the roots are preying upon
the soil, and there are added the evils of drip, and
the annoyance from falling leaves, creating discom-
fort .nel dirt. 1 have heard many complaints from
unoffending occupiers of suburban gardens of such
evils as these, all arising from ignorant actiou
on the part of owners in planting most unsuit-
able subjects, aud the not less stupid obstinacy
of the occupier to refuse to abate the nuisance. ( if
course, with or without giving uotice, the occupier
aggrieved may cut back overhanging trees to his
own feuce-line ; but what an ungainly object is thus
presented! Still, there remains the exclusion of
light and air, and the soil-robbery goes ou all the
same. A general law which prevented the planting
of unduly large-growing trees and shrubs in small
gardens would prove to be the best corrective of
what is, much more largely than is generally
known, a great evil. A. D.

FlCBItlAKY 18, 1899.]

THE GABDENEBW (J H RONICLK

IU7

INTRODUCTION OF THE ORANGE INTO EUROPE.

— In the Gardeners' Chronicle of January 21,

it is stated that, " According to Bretschneider, the
Portuguese claim to have introduced the Sweet
Orange from China into Europe before the middle
of the sixteenth century." In all the accounts of
Oranges I have read in my studies of the Citrus, I
invariably found that " the sweet Orange " is men-
tioned ; but I have never seen it stated which
sweet Orange is meant. There are several varieties
of sweet Oranges, and the sweetest I ever tasted
was a small ((range grown on the borders of Nepal,
north of Gorruchpore, known there under the name
of Siiutola, anil belongs to the Suntara race. The
only fault I found in this Orange was that it was
too sweet. I fancy the sweet Orauge to which
Bretschneider refers is that known in various
places of the Mediterranean by the name of " Por-
togallo, ' and in the Levant " Portugan," both
which distinctly point to its origin in Europe. It
is the Valencia Orange, the St. Michael's, and their
varieties. All Oranges are at lirst sour, and, for
the most part, they sweeten as they ripen. The
Seville, or marmalade Orauge, never sweetens.
This is often called " bitter Orange," but in reality
the bitterness is solely in the rind, or ils essential
oil, the pulp being only sour. E. Bonavia, M.U.

POTATO WOODSTOCK KIDNEY. — This now
almost ancient Potato, for it was raised by Mr,
Robert Fenn at Woodstock some twenty-six or more
year's ago, has hail its name resuscitated through tin'
publication of the very interesting matter furnished
to the Royal Horticultural Society's Scientific Com-
mittee by Mr. Arthur W. Sutton, in detailing the
results of curious grafting experiments with Potatos
and Tomatos. Even if we did not know through
the effects of the Potato-fungus on Tomato-plants
how closely Solauum tuberosum and Lyoospermum
esculentum are allied, we should certainly more
fully realise it when learning of the grafting experi-
ments at Heading. Hut in relation to the Wood-
stock Kidney Potato, pollen of which was employed
in connection with other cross-fertilising experi-
ments, it was in its more youthful days one
of the most free-producers of pollen aud flower
self-fertilisers I ever knew. I employed its
pollen with scores of diverse varieties aud with
great success. I do not know whether it still
retains that fecund character. Generally, modern
Potatos produce little or no pollen ; and so much are
their efforts directed to the production of tubers,
that they have not any left to enable pollen to be
formed. Some persons regard that as being indi-
cative of constitutional weakness. I do not. It is
simply a diversion of plant-force from one direction
to another, aud to the grower of Potatos a far more
profitable one. Reading Russet used to produce
pollen and seed-berries freely, but that feature is
not much seen now. Woodstock Kidney produces
handsome white tubers, of distinctly superior table
excellence, but the plants invariably Buffered, as
all first-class varieties sutler, from disease. It is odd
that, whilst beiug so good a variety, it should be
almost forgotteu ; its twin brother, the famous
International Kidney, which gives the most beau-
tiful of tubers in appearance, aud most indifferent
in flesh, is now grown in great quantities in the
Channel Islands and elsewhere for the supply of
the British market in the spring and summer, and
which, in au unripe state, are freely cousumed by
the unthinking public. A: J>.

SEEDING OF BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE.—
It may interest your numerous readers to kuow
that in the gardens here, a small plant of the above
possesses a seed-pod which I hope will prove fertile,
but, like Mr. Hemsley, I fear it will not, seeing
that the male blooms are devoid of pollen. May it
be accounted for by the absence of sunshine to bring
to pollen out in the dull winter months, or is it
peculiar to the variety (a result of hybridity)! I
shall retain the pod on the plant in order to ripen
the seed, if auy. The male blooms may, with
stronger sunshine, become furnished with the pollen
graius. The plant is from a late-struck cutting.
A. S. Cole, Moncrieff Gardens, />ji<!<j< oj'Enni, N.B.

■ It would be interesting to know when pistil-
late flowers were first observed in this plant. As far
as I can gather, although it was certificated six years
ago, aud has been extensively cultivated each suc-
ceeding year, female Mowers have not been produced
till this season. In a small collection I have noticed
this year, about a dozeu plants produced oue
pistillate Howcr each ; one plant, however, produced
three, aud two others produced two female Uowers

each, but a careful examination has failed to discover
any pollen or a perfect stamen. We shall shortly
see whether Mr. Hemsley s surmises are correct,
with regard to the fertility of these flowers.
There seems no reason why they should not produce
seed. Judging from outward appearauces, the
stigma appears perfect, and is responsive to the
application of pollen-graius ; ilowers pollinated one
day close their petals over the stigma in twenty-
four to thirty-six hours. In oue case, when the
pollen of a species was used, the petals closed
on the third day. I have in my small collec-
tion eight of these ovaries swelling away nicely,
and I hope for some good results, however
small, as doubtless do many other growers. Next
year should see some very interesting forms
and varieties, judging from what one hears. The
behaviour of these hybrid flowers under cultivation
form au exceedingly interest ingandfasciuatiug study.
The very much-lectured and educated young man of
to-day will find scope in this study for the exercise
of his powers of observation. A careful record of
facts noted dosvn at the time of observation, with
the addition of all details of culture, environment,
&c, will assist, perhaps, one day to eliminate the
mystery of the strange behaviour of cultivated
hybrid Ilowers. Hybrid Streptocarpi are very full
of interest to the watcher ; one plant with me last
summer produced an erect, regular flower with
equal lobes and five pei feet stamens. I fertilised it,
obtained seed, and have sown it. Please do not
discourage me, Mr. Hemsley. .1. F.

THE DUNS CASTLE ARAUCARIAS.— With CSfer

eii ci ■ to the article in tic issue of osthult., containing
a reference to the line specimens of Araucaria at
Duns Castle, I am sure it will interest many, and
especially those readers who live in that locality, to
learn something of the date of the planting these
grand trees. Just sixty year- ago, my father, then an
apprentice in the gardens at Duus Castle, carried
these plants in a basket from a little nursery near
the lake " Hen Poo," and assisted to plant them,
They were then some 18 inches high. What is now
the lawn was at that date a geometrical flower-
garden, laid down ill box ; two of these trees wen-
planted there, and the third was placed as a centre
plaut in a rosary, but, some years later it was moved
to where it now stauds. D. ' 'rombii, Feb. 8.

Law Notes.

A LICENSE TAX ON JOBBING .
GARDENERS.

(Sei iv ti ' '■'■••)

Tin; prosecution instituted by the Inland Revenue
Authorities for Manchester agaiust Mr. Trecbv. a
nurseryman there, for employing a male servant as
a gardener, employed in keeping gardens in order
without a license, which it was alleged was necessary,
has naturally created much stir in the gardening
world. We therefore applied to Mr. Chas. Butcher,
solicitor to the Nursery aid Seed Trade Association
for a statement of opinion, which he has kindly
furnished, and which runs as follows : —

ASSESSED TA.\l->. MALE SERVANTS.

Instructions to Counsel to advise cm behalf of
Nurst rymt n.

Nurserymen enter into coutracts with house-
holders, who do not keep a gardener in their sole
employ as a servant, to keep (heir gardens in order
by the year for a fixed price, payable periodically ;
and for that purpose nurserymen keep a staff' of
men, aud send one or more to the residences of
householders for a certain number of days, orpor-
tiou of a day, in each week, varying with the size
of the garden, and the time of the year. The men
so employed are engaged and paid by nurserymen,
are under their entire contiol, and they can keep
them at work ou their nurseries, wholly, or in part,
or send them to residences when necessary to fulfil
contracts. Some men so employed give or receive
a week's notice to leave ; others discharge them-
selves, or can be discharged by nurserymen, by a
day's notice, or a day's pay in lieu thereof,
according to arrangement.

Although it is usual to send the same gardener
from week to week to the same householder (as the

latter do not like strange men), il is not eonqml
sory to do so.

Owners of establishments engage gardeners or
under-gardeners for a period subject to an agreed
notice on either side.to determine the same, whereas
the engagements of gardeners employed by nursery-
men are subject to determination as before nun
tioucd, aud they lose time when the weather is too
wet to work. It is submitted that the 32 & 33 Vict .
c. 14, sec. 11, relates to persons who are engaged
by aud in the sole employ of householders for a
fixed period, and come within the definition of a
servant .

Counsel will please advise : "Whether nurseiy-
mrii are required to take out licenses tor men
tiny employ as gardeners for the purposes above
referred to; "

" Whether any and what proceedings should be
taken to quash the conviction against Mr. Trecby."

Counsel's Opinion.
'•This is au important aud difficult question, on
which it is certainly desirable to obtain without
delay an authoritative decision. It is impossible.
in my opinion, to contend that male servants
cauuot iuclude others than men employed by
private individuals for their own luxurious convc
nience. Hotel and restaurant-keepers must take
out licenses for waiters {Spencer v. Sheerman,
'J.'l L.T., S73). Livery-stable keepers, it is con-
ceded, have to take out licenses for the men they
employ. I incline to think, however, that ' gar-
deners and tinder-gardeners' in seel. 19 refer to
the gardeners and under-gardeners of pin ate
employers, aud that there was no intention (o
tax the trade of a nurseryman, and that no
license is necessary for the men employed by a
qui ■ lyn-.an in his own nursery. But the question
whether he employs a gardener when he contracts
io keep iu order a stranger's garden, is a different
question. It may well be argued that he is, yVd
hac via , a private employer, who employs a gar-
dener. The exact facts would, in each case, have
to be considered to ascertain how far 39 & 40
Vict, c. Hi, s. 5, applied. On the whole, I think
there is a fair chance of upsetting Mr. Yato's
deci.-ion. There is no appeal to Quarter Sessions.
The appeal mint be by special case. II. M'. Loehnii,
7. A". »■ rVni/7, Carey Sireeti ll'.C"

ELLIS c. THE DUKE OF BEDFORD.
This ease was before the Court of Appeal on the
14th inst. It is au action brought against the
Duke of Bedford on behalf of the market gardeners
who use Covent Garden Market, who claim, under
the Act for the Regulation of Covent Garden
Market, 1828, certain preferential rights in regard
to cart-stands within the area for which the tolls
aud charges were scheduled by the Act. Iu
December last a preliminary poiut of importance
arose on application by defendant, aud subsequently
Mr. Justice Romer decided that the six plaintiff's
could not unite to joiu their claims iu one action,
nor could they as private individuals sue ou behalf
of a class of the public in respect of public or other
statutory rights. From this decision the plaintiffs
appealed ou Tuesday last, and the appeal was
allowed by the Court. The Master of the Rolls
held the opinion that the proper course was to
make the Attorney-General a defendant to repre-
sent the general public as agaiust the preferential
rights of this smaller class. The plaintiff's under-
taking to do that, the appeal was allowed.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Febri ary 14.— The fortnightly meeting of the Committees,
and the annual general meeting of tin* Fellows of this Society,'
was held on the above date. The display, in the Drill Hall,
James Street, Westminster, was greater in extent than has
been the case fur some time past, and ifa proportional ii
be made ou succeeding occasions the meetings in March and
April it will again be of the abundant ami overflowiugcharaeter

108

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 18, 1899.

that was the case last spring. Orchids made a very grand
show, there being numerous exhibits of groups, and among
these a very fair proportion of novelties. Though the Floral
Committee only recommended two Awards other than Medals,
there were many groups of choice spring-flowering plants tor
inspection. Chinese Primulas again made one of the
principal features, being shown by Messrs. Jas. Veitch &
Sons and Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, and there was a fine
exhibit of Cyclamens from Mr. J. May, Twickenham. Forced
Tulips were shown in quantity, and the hardy-plant nursery-
men brought some of the earliest flowering of the Narcissus,
Iris, and other choice hardy plants, that had been brought
along gradually iu pots in cool frames. Messrs. W. Paul &
Son, of Waltham Cross, made one of their characteristic
displays of Camellias in pots, which, if this be possible,
should serve to arouse a greater interest in these very free-
flowering greenhouse shrubs, that at the present time are to a
very large extent neglected. The Fruit and Vegetable Com-
mittee awarded a First-class Certificate to a new Apple named
Sanspareil, and Awards of Merit to a variety of Rhubarb,
" The Sutton," and to a patent Fruit-basket. Among several
collections of Apples an exhibit from Messrs. Geo. Bunyard
& Co., Maidstoue, called forth the highest award the Com-
mittee can give, viz., a Gold Medal.

The annual meeting was held in the Lindley Library and
Council Room, in Victoria Street, and as the subjoined report
shows, was a very satisfactory event. With a favourable
balance of nearly £1300, and an increase in the numbers of
Fellows, as great as it is continuous, there is every cause for
the satisfaction generally expressed.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq., in the chair; and Messrs.
Geo. Nicholson, H. B. May J. H. Fitt, R. Dean.E. Molyneux,
Jas. Hudson, Geo. Gordon, Jas. Walker, J. D. Pawle, Chas. K.
Pearson, Chas. Jeffries, J. W. Barr, R. W. Ker, C. R. Fielder,
T. W. Sanders, E. Beckett, E. T. Cook, D. B. Crane, Herbert
J. Cutbush, Chas. E. Shea, Geo. Paul, C. Bliek, and
E. H. Jenkins.

Mr. Chas. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, showed a
small group of plants in bloom of Carnation Princess May,
a variety of the Souvenir de la Malinaison type, with cerise-
coloured flowers.

Choice stove plants were shown in a group by Messrs F*.
Sander it Co., St. Albans. There was a very large plant
about 4 feet high of Acalypha hispida, beside lesser-sized
specimens ; Dracama Sanderiana, D. Godselflana, Acalypha
Godsefnana, and Lieuala Jeanenceyi were all shown well ; also
a plant iu flower of Hamanthus ciunabarinus var. superba, a
very showy variety of this species.

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton,
made a display with Adiantum tenerum Farleyense, some
very nice plants of which were shown ; also model plants of
the popular winter-flowering Begonia Gloire de Lorraine ;
the latter plants, in 8-inch pots, were perfect specimens of
symmetry, and a mass of rose colour (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. J. Hill & Sons, Lower Edmonton, made a tine
exhibit of Ferns, including a batch of plants of Asplenium
Hilli, a useful decorative hybrid, obtained from A. Belangeri
and A. biforme. There were some line baskets of Davallias,
especially of 1). dissecta, Adiantum tenerum scutum, Gymuo-
gramma Vcitchi, Pteris intemata, a dark-leaved, erect-grow-
ing form, by no means common. The fronds are very durable
in a cut state (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal).

Lachenalia Nelsoni, the yellow-flowered species, was shown
well by Mr. Allan, gr. to Lord Slfeield, Gunton Park, Nor.
w.ch, from whom was a group of nine well-flowered plants.

From Sir Trevor Lawrence's garden, Burrord, were
shown several varieties of Helleborus, as strongly grown
wel-dowered plants in pots ; and cut flowers of seedling Hel!

wl::dTchi^uS!ributcd by Mr- J- w- rooeks' r"^>-

Chinese Primulas were shown in large quantity by Messrs
H. Cannell <t Sons, Swanley. More than half of one of the
long centra tables was occupied by these. The plants were
n sma 1 pots (4-inch), and consisted of varieties witfi Z7Z
less of the characteristics of P. pyramidalis ; they were
very abundantly flowered. Lady Emily Dyke was again very
effective Purple Star is a line showy one, the colour of the
flowers beng bright and attractive. Harlequin has white
flowers, flaked promiscuously with purple. Ladv Whitehead
IS pure white, of very nice habit. "The Lady" has been
described many times ; it is pure white, except the primrose
co oured centre, and more nearly represents the type than the
other varieties described, the flowers being less perfect in
form, and the petioles of the leaves much longer! Prime™
a white flower of good form, with yellow centre, was the most
attractive variety iu the group. The flower is circular but
does n.,t open perfectly flat ; the margins of the petal's are
much divided, and the blooms are produced in wonderful
abundance There were a few newer varieties also shown in
lesser quantity that are very meritorious. Altogether the
exhibit demonstrated the beauty of this strain which has'been
appropriately termed "decorative," as distinguished from
florists' Primulas (Silver Flora Medal).

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Kind's
Road, Chelsea, contributed a magnificent group of florist's
Primulas. The plants showed excellent cultivation, ami the
habit of them, together with the size and brilliant 'colour of
the Bowers, illustrated a very line strain. Particularly good
was Gigantic Scarlet, the flowers of which have been mate.

rially increased in size, though the colour, perhajs, is nearer
to crimson than scarlet. The gigantic varieties generally, in
white, pink, rose (very pretty), salmon, blue, &c, were grand ;
all of these colours, and other shades, were also present in the
ordinary varieties, in which the flowers, though hardly so
large, are produced more numerously. P. stellata and varie-
ties between that form and the florist's strain were also
included in Messrs. Witch's exhibit, thus affording an addi-
tional indication of the appreciation now extended to this
strain (Silver Banksian Medal).

Mr. John May, Gordon Nursery, St. Margaret's, Twicken-
ham, staged a most praiseworthy group of Cyclamens, the
plants being as healthy in appearance as they weie well-
flowered. The flowers were erect, of full size, and the colours
capital (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, showed a few plants in
flower of Calceolaria Burbidgei, a rich yellow-flowered hybrid,
raised by Mr. Burbidge some sixteen years ago at Trinity
College Botanic Gardens, Dublin, from C. Pavoni and C.
fuchsia-folia. It will grow to about 5 feet high, and is a good
pot-plant for the greenhouse. In winter, this hybrid may
always be seen in flower in the greenhouse, Royal
Gardens, Kew. Several new Cannas were also shown, one of
them, W. Tofts, a green-leaved variety with orange-coloured
flowers, being very pretty.

Messrs. Wm. Paul & Son, Nurseries, Waltham Cross, Herts,
showed one of the finest lots of Camellia plants that has been
observed at any meeting of the Society in recent years. The
plants ran from 2J to 4 feet in height, mostly as bushes,
lightly trained, or as pyramids. The foliage was good in all
cases, glistening, dark green, and abundant, and the plants
were literally smothered with flowers and flower-buds. The
varieties noted iu the greatest numbers were C. alba plena ;
next to this capital white variety came C. fimbriate, the best
of its class, and the plants still more profusely bloomed than
the first-named. Some nice plants were shown of C. deli.
catissima, a finely-formed creamy-white flower ; C. conspicua,
mottled like C. Doncklaari,|but a better bloom; C. Exquisite, an
imbricated petalled flower, of a deep cerise tint. As cut blooms,
arranged in boxes, we noted Princess Charlotte, wdiite ; Beauty
of Waltham, blush— a beautiful flower; Eugene Massina, a
deeper tint of pink, and with linely-reflexed petals ; Countess
of Derby, Montironi (white), Lady Hume's Blush, and a pretty
seedling of light pink colour, the petals edged with a line of
white ; and many other pretty varieties. A Silver-gilt Flora
Medal was awarded to the group.

Mr. Thus. S. Ware, Ltd., Hale Farm Nurseries, near Tot-
tenham, made an exhibit of choice hardy plants, including
varieties of Narcissus iu pots, a nice lot of Leucojums ; also
Iris stylosa, &c. Iris persiea aznrea, in a pot, was very pretty.

Messrs. Wallace it Co., Kilntield Garrlens, Colchester,
exhibited varieties of Iris reticulata; also I. Histrio, I.
Bakeriana, I. DanfordUe, &c, flowering in pots. Several of
the newer Snowdrops were also shown, including Galanthus
Ikarhe, G. Elwesii, G. Whittalli, &c.

Messrs. Baru & Son, King Street, Covent Garden, London,
showed Narcissus iu puts, the pretty little N. minimus being
represented by a dozen or so nice specimens. Snowdrops,
Irises, Hellebores, and varieties of Cyclamen Coum were all
very interesting.

A variety of Codiaum (Croton), with leaves of moderate
width, centre yellow coloured, with shades of bronze and
purple in the margins, was exhibited by Mr. Frank Lowe,
The Gardens, Eaitham Park. This variety is known as Lord
Hillsborough, and has some merit.

Messrs. Collins Bros., Hampton, showed a large quantity
of forced Tulips in considerable va iety. These were displayed
as market bunches, and the flowers were strong, of good size
and colour, and produced upon stout and sufficiently-long
steins (Silver Banksian Medal).

The Otaheite Orange (Citrus sinensis) was very well shown
in a group ul abundantly-fruited plants in pots, from Messrs.
B. S. Williams * Sons, Upper Holloway.

A specimen of the handsome Arum Dracunculus was shown
by Sir R. Wbiuht, Headley Park, Hants.

AWARDS.

Narcissus x Trillion, — A hybrid between N. triandrus var.
Calathinus and N. monophyllus, raised by Prof. Michael
Foster- and figured in the Gardeners' chronicle, February 24,
1S94, p. 233. The flowers are milk-white, and in the present
instance were hardly so large as some that we have seen
which measured LM inches across. For garden purposes, it is
superior to both its parents (Messrs. Barr & Sons, King
Street, Covent Garden).

IHppeasirwm "Sir William." — A very large bright crimson-
flowered variety, the Hower-scape being very strong, and
nearly 3 feet in height. The form of the flower was not quite
equal to the florists' ideal, but it is a very effective and showy
variety.

Orchid Committee.

Present: Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the chair ; and Messrs.
JjS. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De B. Crawshay. J. Colinan,
J. Gurney Fowler, H. Little, A. Outrain, H. J. Chapman,
W. H. Young, H. T. Pitt, E. Ashwoith, W. H. Protheroe,
W. Cobb, C. Winn, J. Douglas, S. Courtauld, and E. Hill.

Probably at no former February show has there been such a
fine and varied show of Orchids.

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford, Dorking (gr. Mr.
W. H. White), tin- President of the Society, made a'very
charming display, the main features of the group being the
Burford hybrid Den irobiums and Cypripediums. Of the
former were D. x Juno, of the D. x chlorostele class, but
Morally much superior, its brightly-coloured, well-forined
flowers constituting it one of the best hybrid Dendrobiums

D. x chrysodiscum and D. x melanodiscuiii.'shown in several

varieties, were also very handsome ; and D. x Thalia, D. x

Burfordiense, D. x Dulce, and the forms of D. x splendidis-
simum were also showy. Among varieties of species were D.
nobile Burfordiense. Of Cypripediums, a panful of C.xLawre-
bel was very beautiful ; and C. X conco-Lawre, C. x hirsute-
Sallieri in several forms ; C. X Leeanum Albertianuin ; C. X
Calypso ; C. x Calypso, Oakwood var. ; C. Lathamianum,
and distinc t forms of C. villosum. Of Masdevallias a selec-
tion of nice plants was staged. Of other remarkable plants
ill Sir Trevor Lawrence's group were noted a splendid
plant of Epidendruin Endresii, a Catesetum discolor, Odonto-
glossum pulchellum, O. x Andersonianum, Epidendruin
paniculatum, Liparis longipes, &c. (Silver-gilt Flora Medal).

A Silver Flora Medal was awarded to Messrs. Jas. Veitch &
Sons, Chelsea, for a remarkable group of hybrids and
varieties. The group was brightened by a fine collection
of hybrid Dendrobiums, among which were D. x Wardiano-
japonicum, varieties of D. x splendidissimum grandifloruin,
D. X euosmum, and the variety virginale ; D. x Dominia-
nuni, D. x Dulce, D. x Cordelia, and the yellow-flowered
form, flavescens. Among the species were noted a fine speci-
men of D. infundibuluin. Of hybrid Cypripediums, C. X Enid
(Spicerianum x bellatulum) is a pretty flower of middle size,
ivory-white, with the greater part of the surfaee tinged with
claret-purple. Odontoglossuins were well represented.
Among other noteworthy plants were the variable Epiden-
druin xelegantulum, a fine example of EpiphronitisxVeitchi,
one of the best of the scarlet-flowered hybrids ; a good plant
of Cymbidium x eburneo-Lowianum, and some showy forms
of Cattleya Triana-i.

J. Bradshaw, Esq., The Grange, Southgate (gr., Mr.
Whiffen), received a Silver F'lora Medal for a group, in which
the tonus of C. Triansei were noteworthy, his C. T. regale, a
x^.ry large handsome flower, good in colouring, was adjudged
the best in the show ; C. T. Whiflenl, of an uniform peach
blossom colour ; C. T. lilacinum, of a decidedly blue tint ;
and C. T. , white variety, were also line blooms. The group
contained a number of tine forms of Odontoglossuiu luteo-
purpureuin; the delicate blush-white Lycaste Skinneri
Enchantress, &c.

F. Knight, Esq., Thundersley House, Essex (gr., Mr. E.
Marston), showed a group of excellent forms of Cattleya
Triaiiiei and other Orchids (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, were
awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for an effective group of
Phahenopsis, principally good specimens of P. Stnartiana, P.
Schilleriana, and P. Aphrodite. There were also Cypti-
pedium insigue Millie Dow, a pretty yellow form ; C. i.
Ballhe, yellow, with indistinct purplish marking on the
upper sepal ; C. i. Youngiana, aneat flower, and very distinct ;
Dendrobium Lowi, Odontoglossuiu crispum roseuiu, O. X
Andersonianum, Angra-cum sesquipedale, itc.

Messrs. B. S. Williams it Son, Victoria and Paradise
Nurseries, Upper Holloway, were awarded a Silver Banksian
Medal for an interesting and extensive group of plants, con-
sisting of over twenty distinct and tine Cypripediums, three
of the best being C. X Piteherianum Williams' var. ; C. X
Lebaudianuin, ano C, x nitons superbum. Also in the group
were goo-1 examples of Phaius X Cobksoni ; fine varieties of
Cattleya Triansei, that named Reginse being very pretty ;
Lielio- Cattleya x intermedio-flava, Calanthe X Bella, the
true La.dia anceps Williaiusii, a good Cirrhopetaluin pictu-
ratum, Odontoglossums, Dendrobium Wardianuui, and forms
of Lycaste Skinneri.

C. H. Feilinc, Esq., Southgate House, Southgate (gr.,
Mr. Cauham), staged a pretty group, remarkable for a selec-
tion of Cypripediums, the best of which were C. X C. H.
Felling, with all the rich dark colouring of C. X Harris-
ianuni superbum on a much larger (lower (Bronze Medal).

Mr. Owen Thomas, The Royal Gardens, Frogmore, showed
a nearly white form of Cattleya Triansei.

Messrs. Fisher, Son, & Sibrav, Royal Nurseries, Hands-
worth, showed two remarkable, but not fully develoied,
varieties of Cypripediutn insigne ; C. i. Eveline being very
singular, by reason of the white ground colour, stained with
rose-purple on the petals, the upper sepal being similarly
coloured. C. i. Handswurthiense was of the same class, but
nearer to the type of the species.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, showed Phaius X
(Mantii x tuberculosus), P. x orphanuin (glandifolius x
Maltha); P. x D. 8. Brown (amabile X grandifolius), and
Cypripedium x Comet (Stonei x sujierciliare).

HERBERT Harris, Esq., Bowdon Hill House, Chippenham
(gr., Mr. W. J. Penton), showed Cattleya Trianici, Bowdon
House var., and Lselia anceps Schroderiana, both good.

J. T. Ql Uriel, Esq., Palace Road, Streathaiu (gr., Mr. E
Ranson), staged Cattleya Triansei, Gabriel's variety, a fine
fljwer of good colour.

Elijah Ashworth, Esq., Harefield Hall, Wilinslow (gr.,
Mr. Holbrook), showed a tine form of Cymbidium grandifloruin ;
also Masdevallia Sehroder.e, Cypripedium x villoso-ienan-
thum, a handsome hybrid ; and Dendrobium X Domieassio
( Dfjiniuiaiium x Cassiope) of the form of D. X Cassiopc, but
larger, and with rose-tipped segments.

De B. Crawshay, Esq., Roselield, Sevcnoaks (gr., Mr. S.
Cooke), showed Odoiitoglossuni Mis. De B. Crawshay, a dis-
tinct form with clear yellow ground, and but sparsely spotted ;
Lielia anceps var. Juno, a large coloured form, and L. a. var.
White Queen.

H. J. Elwes, Esq.,-Colesborne, Andoversford, showed a
pretty rose-coloured Calanthe, between C. rosea and C.
Stevensii. and forms of Bletia byaciuthiiia.

G. F. Moore, Esq.,Chardwar, Bourton-on-the- Water, showed
the tine Cypripedium x Beekemanni.

F. M. Burton, Esq., llighfield, Gainsborough, showed an
orange scarlet tinted hybrid of Epidendriuu x O'Brieniauun .

February 18, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

109

The Rev. P. Paynter, Guildford (gr., Mr. Cook), showed
flowers of Odontoglossum crispum var. Brilliant, and Den-
droblum Phalsenopsis hololeucum.

AWARDS.
Cattlrya TtUmcei " Amy Wigan," from Sir Frederick
Wioan, Bart, Clare Lawn, East Sheen (gr., Mr. W. H. Young).
This is probably the tinest colour variation of its class. The
bright purplish-rose flowers had a heavy claret-purple feather
on the petals, and some smaller similar markings on the sepals ;
the front and edges of the side lobes of the lip being of an
intense claret-crimson (First-class Certificate).

Masdevallia X Jalmta (coccinea 9. Veitchiana o"). from Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford (gr., Mr. W. II. White),
a very line hybrid with orange-coloured flowers, nearly as
large as those of M. Veitchiana. A line plant with .seven
blooms was shown (Award of Merit).

Phal&nopsis X Mrs. Jamrs I'cltch (Lnddemanniana J, San-
deriana 9), from Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea. This
pretty new hybrid has yellow sepals, and petals spotted with
cinnamon-red, tin- lip being white, with red-brown spots and
yellow base. A very distinct flower (Award of Merit).

Gypripediwn X Orion (concolor <$, insigne 9)> from Messrs.
Jas. Veitch & Sons. A charming hybrid, with yellow flowers
of peculiar form, the broad petals being wavy. The greater
part of the flower is sprinkled with minute red spots, most
evident on the dorsal sepal, which also has purple spots on the
upper third, which is white (Award of Merit).

I'luiio-Ctthuithr X Niol>,- (C. X gigasrf, Phaius grandifolius ? ),
from Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons. A free-growing plant, of
the b&bit of P. grandifolius. Flowers pure white, with the
face of the sepals and petals and the front of the lip of a rich
rose-pink colour (Award of Merit).

Lcelia-CcUUeya x ll'arnluuiiensis var. ffypatla (L. rinnabarina
X C. Trianiei Normani), from Messrs. Charlesworth & Co.,
Heaton, Bradford. A marked improvement on the original
type. The flowers are yellow, with claret-crimson front to
the lip, which is better displayed than in others of its class.

CatasHum discolor, from Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart.
(Botanical Certificate).

Hrstirpia teopardino, from R. I. Measures, Esq. (gr., Mr.
H. J. Chapman) (Botanical Certificate).

Odontoglossum x Anderson ianum, from Sir Trevor Law-
HENCE, Bart. (Cultural Commendation).

Odontoglossum maculatum anceps, from Walter Coble, Esq,
(Cultural Commendation).

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: Philip Crowley, Esq., Chairman; and Messrs"
Geo. Bunyard, Jos. Cheal, Jas. H. Veitch, W. Wilks, J.
Basham, A. F. Barron, S. Mortimer, Alexander Dean, 0.
Herein, .1. ff. Bates, Geo. T. Miles, Geo. Wythes, H. Balder-
son, F. Q. Lane, J. Smith, J. Willard, W. Poupart, ami W. 11.
Divers.

Messrs. Geo. Bcnv ard & Co., Royal Nurseries, Maidstone,
made an exhibit of something over sixty dishes of splendid
Apples. The excellent manner in which Apples are preserved
by Messrs. Bunyard & Co. until past May has been shown
many times at the Temple Show. Those exhibited on Tuesday
were such perfect examples, that the committee recommended
an award of the Society's Gold Medal. Of the varieties, the
following were conspicuous: — Allington Pippin, Bromley's
Seedling, Newton Wonder, Belle de Pontoise, Cox's Orange
Pippin, Lord Derby, Lane's Prince Albert, Gascoigne's Scarlet
Seedling, Emperor Alexander, Calville Rouge, Wealthy,
Twenty Ounce, King of Tomkin's County, Bismarck, and
Golden Noble.

Another collection including Apples and a few Pears was
shown by Messrs. Cheal & Sons, Lowfield Nurseries, Crawley.
There were about sixty dishes, and the finest examples were
those of Bismarck, Newton Wonder, Bramley's Seedling, Gos-
patrick, King of the Pippins, &c. (Silver Knightian Medal).

Mr. Geo. Wythes, gr. to the Duke of Northumberland,
Syon House, Brentford, exhibited a well-fruited branch of
Vanilla planifolia, also dried fruits of same, grown at Syon in
1898. A Silver Knightian Medal and a Cultural Commendation
were awarded.

A basket of excellent Mushrooms was exhibited by Mr.
J. W. Miller, gr. to Lord Foley, Ruxley Lodge, Claygate,
Esher(Voteof Thanks).

AWARDS.

A J .t ■!<■ S r 'i spi ' reil.— This is a moderate- si zed, conical fruit, that
was a great favourite with the late Mr. Anthony Wateier, and
is believed to be of continental origin. It is in season in
February, March, and April, and is described as suitable for
kitchen or dessert purposes. In colour it is chiefly rich
yellow, marked upon one side with red. From Messrs. Geo.
Bunvard & Co., Maidstone (First-class Certificate).

Rhubarb "The Sttttou.''— A very fine-looking red variety
that evidently forces well. From Mr. Butler, gr. to the
Earl of Ancaster, Norraanton Gardens, Stamford (Award
of Merit.)

Mallet's Patent Fruit-Basket,— This is a basket made by the
Mallett Patent Basket Syndicate, 62, Union Road,
Rctherhithe, London, S.E. It is made with upright laths,
nearly but not quite joined together with wooden bands at
top and bottom. The basket is perfectly round, will hold
about 24 lb., and is recommended as being very much more
durable, and also greatly smoother than the usual wicker-
made bushels or sieves.

Annual General Meeting.

The Annual General Meeting of Fellows of this Society was
held at the offices, 117, Victoria Street, Westminster, on the
afternoon of Tuesday last, February 14. Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart., President, occupied the chair, and among those
present were Sir W. T. Thiselton Dyer, Director of Kew ; Sir
John T. D. Llewelyn, Bart. ; and Messrs. Rev. W. Wilks
(secretary), Rev. G. Engelhcart, P. Crowley, H. J. Veitch,
H. J. Elwes, Prof.G. Henslow, T. B. Hayward, J. T. Bennett-
Pot, Jas. Hudson, R. McLachlan, C. E. Shea, Arthur Sutton,
Geo. Bunyard, W. Roupell, and Geo. Paul.

The minutes of the last general meeting having been read
and confirmed, a number of new Fellows were elected.

Mr. James Douglas and Mr. Alexander Dean were elected
scrutineers.

Mr. George Bunyard, in proposing a hearty vote Of thanks
to the retiring members of the Council, took the opportunity
to allude to a matter which he had had in his mind for some
time past. He said the holders of the Victorian Medal for
Horticulture formed a body ot sixty, and he thought some
arrangement might be made whereby they could meet at least
once a year. Inordertodothatit would, of course, be necessary
to have a secretary or someone who could call them together.
He might also remind them that at the present moment they
had no head. He ventured to suggest that the council might
lake the matter into their consideration.

Mr. George Paul seconded the motion, which was carried.

THE PRESIDENTS ADDRESS.

The President then rose amid cheers, and said :— Ladies
and Gentlemen : I have now the honour to propose the adop-
tion of the report, which was circulated aiming the Fellows
some days ago, and I have no doubt that those Fellows who
are interested in the work of the Society have read it. I
Venture to remark thaton no occasion— certainly not in recent
years— has it been the good fortune of the Council to lie able
to send out a report which is in every respect 80 very satis-
factory, I trust the Fellows will e. insider that the short
history of the Society during the past year which is contained
in the report is a very satisfactory one.

There are a few matters in the report to which I should like
to allude. In the first place, I would refer to the publication
of the catalogue of the Library. The Library, as I dare say
those who have been Fellows of the Society for a good many
years will remember, was purchased in ISOtS, out of the profit
that was made by the Committee of the International
Exhibition on the occasion of a gre:it horticultural ex-
hibition held in the grounds of South Kensington that
year. The Library has been growing during the last ten
years witli the growth of the Society, but owing to
there being no librarian, it has gradually fallen Into a very
confused and disordered condition. I am afraid that the
catalogue, such as it was, was of such a nature as to pro-
mote that confusion. That, 1 am glad to say, has at last
all been set right, and everything has been placed in proper
order. That leads me to say how much I regret the absence
to-day, through illness, of Dr. Maxwell Masters, under
whose auspices the work has been carried on, and it is
no exaggeration to say that a very warm feeling of gratitude
slu. old be entertained by the Fellows of this Society t<> Dr.
Masters. I must not omit to mention the name of Mr.
Hutchinson, who, under Dr. Masters, assisted in the work.
All the serials— and they are numerous — have been put in
proper order and made as perfect as it is possible to make
them. The catalogue is complete, and the Council has
decided to have all the cases closed in with glass so as to
preserve the books from the dust and dirt of the London
atmosphere, and the destructive effects of gas. Before Leaving
this subject, and so as not to go over the same matter twice,
1 should like to say that the clerical work of the Society has
naturally greatly increased, and is now of such a nature that our
very moderate staff, working most willingly and all hours, is
unable to properly cope with it, and we have before us to-day a
resolution proposing additional clericalassistance. The proposal
has been adopted by the Council, and I think we shall be for-
tunatein securing the services of Mr. Hutchinson, who has been
working here in the library. Of course, Mr. Hutchinson's first
duty will be that of the clerical staff, and such time as he is
able to spare from his clerical work he will be able to devote
to supervising the library and keeping it in good condition.

The condition of the gardens at Chiswick of late years has
been a source of very great anxiety to the council. As to the
value of the garden at Chiswick, it is impossible to avoid
seeing that the garden is, in a great measure, worn out. It is
unfortunate that it should be so, but it is the case ; and any-
body who saw the garden during the severe drought of last
year, would agree with me that the ground showed every
indication of being, in a great measure, worn out. Not only
that, but it is too small for the wants of the society.
We want larger ground and better soil, and we want
an opportunity of doing more extensive w«rk than we are
now able to do at Chiswck. At the same time, we have
twenty years' lease yet to run, and so we shall not be able to
quit Chiswick for some considerable time. I feel if we had a
larger garden —a garden where more extensive and more
valuable work could be carried on— it would be greatly to the
advantage, not only of the Society, but to the numerous
county councils throughout the kingdom, who are at a great
loss to know where to send promising young men desiring to
have a sound horticultural education. We have had an
application from the County Council of one of the Home
Counties, asking to be allowed to send a younc; man to Chis-
wick, and I am convinced, from what I know of the work of
the various county councils throughout the land, that if a

thoroughly satisfactory education in horticulture could be
given at the Society's gardens, wherever they might be, and
the councils would take advantage of the opportunity, it
would be not only to the benefit of the Society itself, but
what is of more importance, would be to the benefit of horti-
culture in the kingdom.

The next point to which I would like to refer is the awards
which have been made during the past year for the meri-
torious exhibits by amateurs and the trade [this was alluded
to in our excerpts from the report published in the Gardeners'
Chronicle, January 28]. I do not think that at any period
of the history of the Society have the fortnightly exhibits
been as satisfactory, as valuable, as beautiful, and as inter-
esting, as they have been during the past year. The fact that
that is so, is abundantly shown by the large and highly inter-
ested body of visitors who now habitually come to the exhi-
bitions. I was about to say, that there might be still room
for some further restriction on the giving of Awards. We
are all willing— perhaps I should say anxious— to receive
Awards for our productions, but the merit of the Awards we
receive is considerably diminished when we find that they
are very largely shared by a crowd of other people. We
have this year taken a step in the right direction.

During the last few years the Society has awarded Gold
Medals, but the absolute Medal in the precious metal has net
fallen into the hands of the recipient. That has been due to
the fact that the financial position of the society did not
allow it. But we have felt for some years that that was not a
satisfactory state of affairs, and we have adopted a die for a
new gold medal, not of large size, but the result will be that
everybody who is awarded a medal will get the absolute gold
medal.

The next question thai is raised in the report concerned the
exhibits of professional horticulturists and amateurs. [Also
alluded to in our issue for Jan. 28. En.] I must say 1 find
myself in agreement with my brother amateurs. Although
we do not expect to rival the skill and successes of the great
professional, we do our best. But it is like all the greatgames,
whether it be golf or billiards, or goodness knows what, the
professional always beats the amateur- beats him, as a rule,
easily ; and, therefore, there is some ground, I think, for saying',
that some different standard ought to be applied to the
exhibits of the amateur to what is applied to t host? of the
professional.

Then the report refers to a conference on hybridisation [see
Report, Jan. 28}. Well, ladies and gentlemen, I am very glad
to say that the suggestion for such a Conference has been very
warmly received in all quarters. It has been felt that in
dealing with the question of hybridisation, which extends
right through the realm of horticulture— whether we speak
of tlowers, plants, or fruit— we are dealing with a large and
important, and very interesting, and I venture to say, a very
intricate subject. We have received cordial assurances of co-
operation, both from home and abroad, and I think there is
every reason to anticipate that we may have an equally
successful and interesting Conference next July.

I had occasion to write to a distinguished gardener the other
day— Mr. Joseph Chamberlain-and I asked him to be kind
enough, if he possibly could, to reserve July 12 for our
banquet, and he was kind enough to say that if nothing bre-
vented him, he would certainly do so. I think you will agree
with me that every Fellow of the Society ought todo his utmosf
to make this a success. When we go abroad, we are received
with the greatest possible hospitality and kindness. It is
impossible to exaggerate the graceful and abundant hospitality
—almost too abundant hospitality— which is shown to us, and
we in this country would, I am sure, be very sorry indeed to
be in any way backward in making some small return to our
foreign visitors on this occasion.

Next, we come to the show in the Inner Temple. I do not
think that we have ever had a finer show than we had last
year, and I think it is very satisfactory that the quality and
character of these shows should be maintained at the very
highest point of excellence at which they have been main-
tained. Our space there is strictly limited, ami we cannot
put up any more tents. We have, therefore, to reserve the
space at our disposal for the more interesting class of exhibits,
by excluding those which are nothing more or less than
gigantic advertismehts.

I think the show at the Crystal Palace, having regard to the
season, was satisfactory. Arrangements have been made for
repeating it. It is gradually becoming in the autumn what
the Temple Show is in the spring. It is a matter of very con-
siderable importance to this country, where fruit growing is
practised on a very large scale, that there should be something
in the Metropolis t . show what our growers are able to do ;
and there is not the smallest doubt, having regard to our
climate, that the fruit-growers of this Kingdom have no
reason to hide their heads. I believe they display more skill
than the* fruit-growers in any other country, even countries
which are blessed with a more benign climate than ours ; for
I believe that there is no part of the world where horticulture
is practised with such enthusiasm and success as it ii
practised in this kingdom.

With regard totheJouryw/of thc8oeiety(W</ereport, Jan. 28),
arrangements have now been made to issue it quarterly, so
that there will be a part issued at the commencement of every
quarter, and I trust it will be possible to issue it regularly.
The additional work entailed is very considerable, and I must
in this connection refer to the indefatigable labours of our
secretary. The Journal would soon come to an end were it
not for two things— first, the very valuable papers that are
written for it, and our fortnightly meetings ; and secondly, the
admirable way in which the Journal is edited by our secre-
tary. No labour is too great for him— no sacrifice of time and
leisure is too great for him to make, and the Society owes a

110

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

tpEBfctTARY 18, 1S99.

deep debt of gratitude to Mr. Wilks for his work in connection
with the Society generally, and the Journal especially. The
expenses of the four numbers of the Journal, and posting it to
the 4000 Fellows of the Society during the past year, wafl
£1041, from which has to be deducted £4130 for advertisements
and sale, leaving a net cost of £581, and at that price I ven-
ture to think that every Fellow of the Society will agree
that the Society is well repaid. Very important im-
provements h:ive been made in the Journal, and a large
number of ^oodcuts have been added; and I think we, can
nil agree that the Journal is now indeed the Journal of the
Society.

The next subject to which I should like to re far is the in-
crease in the number of Fellows. I do not think we eould
have more distinct and convincing evidence of the prosperity
of the Society than is shown by that increase. We made a
net increase— after all deductions— of 500 members, the
largest increase thai has ever taken place, The additional
number of Fellows already this year is also by far the largest
addition that has ever come before the annual meeting.
There have already joined the Society this year 167 new mem-
bers, as againsl the largest number ever before up to the
annual meeting of llo. That is the result of sticking to our
business, l have always said, and 1 venture to repeal ,
because 1 ilp not think it can be repeated too often—that su
long as the Society sticks to horticulture, so long will horti-
culture stick to it. 1 think it would be impossible to have a
better Council than we have the good fortune to have ; and no
member of the Council would make a suggestion except it
were fur the benefit, improvement, and the progress: and
prosperity of horticulture.

There is not the smallest doubt that the financial position of
the Society is gradually being thoroughly reinstated. We arc
every year adding something to our balance (vide Report), and
that is eminently more satisfactory, if possible, than would
otherwise be the case, as we are now very near the centenary
of the Society.

In five years time the Society will have existed one hundred
years, and the question arises in what way shall we celebrate
tlie centenary? Some people think we should have a Horticul-
tural hall. If that were possible, I should like these cheers
aoconipanied by large contributions, which would certainly be
very necessary. It is, perhaps, premature to say what would
bo the best way to celebrate the centenary of the s.m n tv ;
but if the Society only proceeds on its present lines up to the
year l!»04, it will then be in a position to undertake much
more than it could profitably or wisely undertake now.

I have now only to express to the gentlemen who have
served on the committees our grateful thanks to them for

their labours, which have 1 n su ungrudgingly given, Many

of them travel very great distances, and lean assure them
that every Fellow of the Society feels grateful to them.

I have already alluded to our Secretary, to "whom we all owe
so much. I think we have a good man in Mr. Wright, of
Ghiswick. He has done good work there, and he has
thoroughly justified our selecting him to replace our old
friend Mr. Barron. We owe a meat deal to the whole of our
stall.

I am afraid you are tired of listening to what I have had to
say. It is a very great pleasure, I assure yon. to be elected
again and again to be President of what 1 may call this
ancient Society. I most thoroughly appreciate the honour.
My interest in horticulture has been of no recent growth. I
was brought up among flowers, and although I should lilce
to live as long as I can, I hope, when I die, it will be
among flowers J The pleasure they give us is never-ending,
and those who promote the culture of plants and flowers will
never regret helping in the g i work.

Sir Wm. Thiseltoii Dyer seconded the motion for the adop-
tion «.f tie- report He said after the very exhaustive address
from the chair on the prosperous state of the society, it would
only be necessary for him to make a very few remarks.
Speaking as an outside spectator, he should like to .say. that
the work of the society was almost unique among the occupa-
tions and industries of this country. There were no pursuits,
nm tar as he knew, in which all classes could join with equal
enthusiasm, and equal pleasure, and equal profit. To the
Drill Hall, which had dene them such excellent service, but
which he shoull like to see replaced by -sonic more pleasant
building, were brought the newest and choicest specimens of
professional work of those who made horticulture their busi-
ness. But for their shows they would have to spend many
days, ami make many journeys, to see as complete evidence
of the progress of horticulture as they could see in that hall:
No amateur hesitated to bring his work, for he was suit of
just but friendly criticism. The shows at the Drill Hall
illustrated to a remarkable degree what could be accomplished
by cn-operatiori. lie felt peculiar satisfaction at the Pre-
Biden) s icfererice to the suggested Horticultural Hall a
project still deferred, but not absolutely lost sight of. He
was glad }o sec their finances on such a sound basis, and he
did not see why they should not do as the Zoological Society,
the Agricultural Society, ami the Surveyors* Institute, ami
other societies in erecting suitable edifices, for themselves out
of their accumulated funds. Until that time arrived they
must encourage their admirable administrative body to stick
to their in- sent policy which had 1"! to such prosperity.
They must remember that they had passed through the firea

good deal, and their prosperity was the result of their tribula-
tion. If they were to continue to do good they must have a
programme— something they could beep before them as their
ultimate aim, ami that was the Horticultural Hall.

Mr. II. .!. Elwes, F.R.S., was glad a gentleman had been
appointed as librarian. He felt certain that if the Council
guaranteed that the books should be wel] cared for, many
Fellows of the Society and others would bequeath works to

the Library. He offered to allow the Society to select from
his books such works on horticulture as would be suitable for
the library. Alluding to the Gold Medals, he thought the
shepherd or the breeder should have some acknowledgment
from the Council. It seemed a farce that they should all go
to the exhibitor, until he did not know how many medals he had
got. In conclusion, ho congratulated thein on the success of
the. Society, and said the praise was undoubtedly due to the
good management.
The report was then adopted.

Election of Officer.

The following were then declared duly re-elected :— Presi-
dent: Sir Trevor Lawrence, IJ;nt. Treasurer: Mr. Philip
Crowley. Secretary : Rev, W. Wilks, M.A. Auditors: Messrs.
Harry Turner, H. I'. May, and James II Veitch.

Dr. Hugo Midler, P.R.S., Mr. Fred. 6. Lloyd, ami Mr.
Alfred H. Pearson were elefcted to the Council; in the place of
Sir Frederick Wigan, Hart., Rev. §eo. Engleheartj and Mr.
Thomas Skitter.

The President, responding to a hearty vote of thanks, said
the Council had already under consideration the appointment
of a sub-committee to deal with the manner in which the
centenary of the Society should be celebrated. The question
of granting medals to others than the exhibitors was,
perhaps, more a mal ter between employer and employed. He
had no doubt many employers would only be ton pleased to
band the medals over to their men, who had really done the
actual work.

The proceedings then ended.

CHESTERFIELD CHRYSANTHEMUM.

A Chat about Chrysanthemums. — At a recent meeting of
the Chesterfield Chrysanthemum Society, Mr. Nklson, of
Ashgate Lodge gardens, who introduced a " Chat" upon the
cultivation of the plants, referred to certain peculiarities that
he had noticed.

He asked why are some varieties so much slower as cuttings
to emit roofs than are others? Beauty of Castlewood, Mrs.
C. H. Payne, and Col. Smith, for instance. Had tie need
been demonstrated for repotting the plants three times before
they are put info tin1 pots, in which they are toflower? Mr.
Nelson's experience was to the effect that cuttings inserted
into a .3-inch pot, slutted into a 5-inch pot, and thence into
the flowering pot, peri nil ted the grower to use rougher rooting
material, and was a better practice. Interesting remarks were
made upon "stopping," also upon " taking" the buds ; upon
malformed buds, "damping" of buds, &c.,and the partiality
of insect pests to the llower-buds of certain varieties.
. Respecting top-dressing, Mr. Nelson said, that after careful
observation lie had now abandoned the practice, for though
roots were made subsequently in great abundance, plants
that were not so top-dressed succeeded to an equal degree.
Nevt was asked the question, Why have varieties of the
Queen section been so scarce at exhibitions during the last
few years? Some growers had urged that the varieties are
worn out, are decrepit through age. If so, then why are not
the varieties Mrs. G. Bundle and Mr Bunn, which are older
than some of the ".sports" of the Queen family? It had
been said that incurveds had been overfed, and one cultivator
had planted his stock out in poor soil. Several years have
elapsed, but that cultivator nor any other had yd exhibited
blooms such as were formerly common. The difference in the
keeping properties of blooms of certain varieties was remarked
upon, and Mr. Nelson hail found the best keeping white-
flowering van-ties i,, t,e Madame Garnot, Ma Perfection,
Souvenir dti Petite Amie, and Elsie Teichmann. Of yellow,
Edith Tabor; bronze, Mrs. G. W. Palmer: crimson, Beauty
of Castlewood. The two last-named varieties had been main-
tained fresh for a month after they had been exhibited. Mr.
Nelson's last two queries were these ; Why <lo we see some
varieties in such good form during the final season, and not
afterwards? How may we make our exhibitions more
attractive to tie- general public, and of greater educational
value to all ?

It goes without saying, that the members present were
provided with ample subjects for their subsequent discussions,

LINNEAN.

February 2.— Dr. A. QUhther, F.R.S., President, in tin'
Chair. Mr. Peter Chalmers Mitchell was electee] a Fellow of
iin' Society.

Mr. E. M. Holmes, F.LS., exhibited specimens of Schiin-
melia oleifera, a native of Venezuela, the wood of which yields
an essential oil known in commerce as "West Indian oil of
Sandal-wood." The plant, hitherto undescribed, was found
to belong to a new genus of Rutacete, and lias been named
Schimmelia, after tin' (lernian expert who distilled the
oil, and who, with considerable difficulty, procured flowering
and fruiting specimen? of the plant for proper determination;

Mr. E. S. Salmon read a paper entitled "Noteson the genus
Nanomitrium, Lindberg." This genus had hitherto been
regarded as cleistocarpous. Examination of fresh specimens
of N. tenenun showed, however, that the capsules possessed
a distinct 7011.: of specialised cells— delicate, narrow, and
transversely elongated, clearly marking oil tin' upper part of
the capsule as a lid. Tie- same structure was found in the
original specimens collected by Breutel, in Mitten's Sussex
Specimens, and in various continental examples. The re-
maining four species of the genus were then examined. .V
synoicum and N. Anstini agreed with N. tenernin in pos-
sessing the zone ot differentiated cells, anil in these species,

although no opened capsules were found, the author expressed
the belief that a complete separation of the lid takes place in
Nature. It seemed to him probable that the very thin cell-
walls of the zone, which become partly disorganised, aid in
effecting the dehiscence. The above-mentioned structure
satisfactorily accounted for the regular dehiscence which had
been observed by various authors, and figured by Sullivant.

N. tequinoctiale showed no differentiation in the cells of the
capsule-wall, and was truly cleistocarpous. The inflorescence
of tiiis species proved to be polyoieous (autoicous x dioicous).
In N. megalospormn, also, no differentiated cells occurred.
Contrary to what had been stated by Philibert, tin' capsule of
this species was found to possess stomata, and generally tu
show a structure similar to that of Ephemerum.

The author pointed out that the characters by which Nano-
mitrium had been separated from Ephemerum were insuf-
ficient, and 'considered that the 1 ler genus should he

limited to X. tenerum, N. Austini, and X. synoicum, referring
X. illegal, i.sporum (and perhaps also N. a-qnmoctiale) to
Ephemerum. The essential character of the genus Nuno-
lnitriinu was the presence of a zone of differentiated cells, by
which a regular dehiscence is effected.

The systematic position of the two genera was next
considered.

Lindberg had well placed Nanomitrium in the Funariacese,

hut f sidered Ephemerum to belong to the Tortulacese.

Reasons were given for supporting Dixon's opinion tied
Ephemerum also belonged to the Funariacese.

In conclusion, the author remarked that, since his paper
had been written, he had noticed that in the last part of his
Organagra&hle der Pfanaen, Goebel had investigated the cap-
sule of Nanomitrium tenerum, with special reference to the
development of the columella. In one of the figures given of
a longitudinal section of a ripe capsule, the differentiated cells
of the capsule-wall are shown, and are referred to in the
explanation of the plate as the annulus. Nothing further on
thjs point is mentioned, and the dehiscence of the capsule is
not referred to.

A discussion followed, in which Dr. R. Brailhwaite and
Mr. E. M. Holmes took part.

Mr. I'. W. Mansfield, M.B., read a paper "On theProduc-

ii 1 Apospory by Environment in Athyrium filix-fcemina

var. uncoglomeratum, an apparently barren Fern," This had

been elicited by cutting "If parts of the immature IV Is.

and allowing them to expand during eighteen months in
an uniformly humid atmosphere. The result was the produc-
tion in the ultimate divisions of a meristeiuatic tissue which
gave riseto(l)genmur. or bulbils, (2) prothalli, producing both
apogamons finds and ordinary sexual axes of growth, tine of
the prothalli had been examined, and found to hear both
archegonia and antheridia. On layering the primary fronds

prod 1 by apospory, It WaS found that these readily gave

rise to fresh aposporous growths. The ease with which apos-
porywas induced in the primary fronds, as compared with
the extreme difficulty in the-case of fronds from an older
plant, was said to fie characteristic of aposporous Ferns in
general, Mr. Stanslield baring observed it in every case
(eight in all) in which he hail raised Ferns by apnspory.
Assuming the truth of the " recapitulation " theory, he sug-
gested thai this fact indicated that apospory was an atavic
trait in Ferns.

.Mr. Stansfield's culture was exhibited, and showed the
primary aposporous prothalli with fronds of the sporophyte
proceeding from them, the latter being layered and having
secondary aposporous prothalli, bearing root-hairs, growing
from them.

In a discussion which followed, Prof. Farmer ami Mr. C. T.
Druery took part, the latter taking occasion (a exhibit a new
form of Scolopendriuin vnlgaro, showing apospory profusely
developed in the heavy fimbriated crisis peculiar to that
variety, and distinguishing it from Scolopendrium vulgare
var. crispum Dmmmoii.diaB, also shown for comparison. A
culture' from said crests was also shown displaying proth'all
wilh root-hairs, archegonia, and anlheridia as developed alter
layering, a variety indistinguishable from var. Drummondiae
was also exhibited in conjunction with, and originating from,
a mass of prothalli produced from material supplud by Mr,
E. .1. Lowe iii connection with his paper "On Discoveries
resulting from the division of a prothallus of a variety if
Scolopendrium vulgare " (Linn. .see. Jour., Hot xxxii. p. 529).
Mr. Lang's culture yielded similar results ; and Scolopen-
drium vulgare var. crispum Drumroondhn being an aposporous
Fern, this leads to the presumption that the phenomena
recorded by Mr. E. .1. Lowe were mainly due to inheritance
and not all induced by division, although young plants ral 1 i

by II xhiliitor from var. Ilriiinmoiidue did not present such

extreme aposporal reatnresas did .Mr. Lowe's, wfiiefi in si. me
e.i-es bore all the sexual features without being layered.

This and the stunted nature of the young plants inighl

perhaps be referable to the cheek of repeated divisi but

not the apospm y /" / -r.

THE SCOTTISH HORTICULTURAL
ASSOCIATION.

FeBroari ".—The monthly meeting was held on the above
date, at 5, SI. Andrew Square, Edinburgh.

There was a large attendance of members, with the rel inn
president; Mr. Todd, in thedhair. The minutes of the 1,.

1 ""- "ere liken as read and confirmed. Thirty-three rii

members nominated al the last meeting were admitted as
members, and a large number nominated for admission

nexl month. Mr. Todd iee mended Mr. Malcolm Duriri'a's

:' lifl' iiil.cr otlhe Association, and nude a genial speecli n

resigning his office of President, expressing the pain and the
pleasure his two years of office had given him, which had

February 18, 1890.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

111

proved years of special success. His last duty in the chair
was to introduce his successor, which he did with much
pleasure, Mr.C.W. Cowan, YallyhVl l.Penicuick, as a gentleman,
the head of a family so long distinguished in the public and
commercial life of Edinburgh, as well as for the skill shown in
the culture of Narcissus, alpines, and other hardy plants which
had converted fcheir home and nursery into a sort of floral
paradise.

Mr. Cowan took the chair amidst great applause; c6n-
trss.M that he was no great speaker, bul in tin- time of
Daffodils, he would be phased to see all the members at
yallyfield to see them for themselves. He concluded by
promising to let Mr. Laird, their Secretary, know when the
Daffodils were at their best, and hoped with their assis-
tance to do his best to serve the Association. Having had
the good fortune to see this rich, varied, and rare collection of
daffodils last summer, the writer can assure the visitors of a
great feast of good things. Mr. Peter Loney then proceeded
in give an able and informing lecture on "The Insect Pests of
the Garden." He gave vivid descriptions of the structure,
modes, and rapidity of reproduction, and tremendous powers
of destruction of inseel pests, common and destructive in
gardens.

Mention was made of the Pea and Bean-beetle (weevil), the
Onion-maggot, and the Beetroot-fly. Mr. Loney based his
descriptions and the facts relating to the generation of insects
on -Miss Ormerod and other high authorities, and clearly
illustrated his points through an interesting series of greatly
magnified diagrams. He also suggested various remedies, and
did ample justice to birds, parasitic mites, and especially lady-
birds, as powerful friends to the cultivator.

Having stated that he had no certain cure for the Onion-
maggot, Mr. D. T. Fish declared he had, viz., autumn or
February sowing, which pushed the Onions beyond the
nesting, that is, the thres-bladed stage, before the advent of
the fly. Onions do no1 suil their taste nor capacities whei
larger and tougher.

The late President as usual, and out of special compliment
to the new President, Mr. Cowan, showed a superb stand of
Daffodils firmly supported by a wireframe that holds every
bloom in its place. There was also a line bunch of the
Immensely popular Acacia dealbata, which seemed blanched
white in the jgas-light ; and a very fine spray of Clematis
indivisa lobata or grandiflora, the latter from Mr. Shale,
Glenburne, Oswald Road. Especially dwarf ami broad
Brussi i Sprouts plants also excited a good deal of interest.

The meeting concluded with the usual cordial Vote of
Thanks to "Mr. Loney and Mr. Cowan, the new President.
t. T. F.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

February 13.— The Executive met at 265, Strand, on the
above date.

Mr. Pkri'v Waterer, the newly-elected chairman, pre-
siding; a series of resolutions were passed, among them one
acknowledging the services Mr. T. W. Sanders had rendered
to the Society, and it was further resolved that the large
Gold Medal of the Society, together with an address engravi d
on vellum, should be presented to Mr. Sanders. The date of
the annual outing was Sxed for July, when, by kind per-
mission ,pf Lord Bosebery, a visit will be made to the gardens
of Mentmore.

Messrs. C. Blick, R. Kenyon, and A. Wright, were elected
<m the Floral Committee, in the plaees of retiring members ;
and K. Kenyon and J. W. Sinunons on the Classification Com-
mittee. The Schedule Revision Sub-committee, and also thai
for Finance, were appointed.

A report was brought up from the Schedule Revision Sub-
committee, showing that the November schedule had been
augmented to the amount of £55. A new class is for twelve
vasesof live blooms of specimen Japanese Chrysanthemums
on long stems, 1st prize, £20 and a large Cold Medal, given by
Mr. 11. J. Jones ; the society adding a 2nd prize of £15 and a
small Gold Medal ; a third prize of £10 and a Silver-gilt Medal ;
a fourth prize of £5 and a large Silver Medal; while every
exhibitor not taking a prize will receive a small Silver Medal.
Mr. P. Waterer, the chairman of the committee, otters a prize
of Five Guineas for the best Essay on Chrysanthemum-Rust,
the Essay not to exceed 2,000 words, to be type-written, and
be Eent in to the secretary by Oct. 1.

A few new classes have been added, and many special prizes
are further ottered.

The qualification to exhibit in Division A, reads : — " For
those who mainly, if not entirely, personally cultivate their
Chrysanthemums, and employ but one assistant regularly,
and does not grow for sale. Single-handed gardeners, win-
grow lor their employers, can also exhibit in this section ;
but in all cases ot'entry, the name and address of the employer
in full must be given, and will appear first on the exhii> tion-
card."

Tin- definition m t>i\ ision 13, is in effect : " For those who
employ no paid assistance in the culture of their Chrysan-
themums, and are'-the bond-Jbdi growers of their plants. No
person wliu is employed in a nursery, or public or private
garden, can compete in this section, and any act of selling

cuttings, plants, or blooms, unless seedlings or sports, will
disqualify."

BRISTOL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.

February 10.— The fortnightly meeting of this Society was
held at St. John's Palish Room, Redland, on the above date,
Mr. W. A. Garaway in the chair.

Tli.- subject for the evening was Hie "Culture of Hardy
Fruit," a paper upon which was read by Mr. F. I'oolc, F.R.H.S.,
of Downend.

The Weather.

[The term "accumulated temperatu re " indicates the aggregate
amount, as wellas the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees— a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Cut Flowers, &C— Average Wholesale Prices.

Temperature.

_ Bright
Rainfall. g0N

0)

u ° —

Accumulated.

a

03
-= .

~x

1 oj

.Lis

S "

° <2

is?

CD

a

w c"

>. i

B '—

Fall since Jan. 1, 1899.

ntage of possible Dura-
tion for the Week.

O

5
5

ID

a

g .

O %
""£

t, = CO

U — ,—

•2"

o g

o v
tc.2

O

g S a

iP.

B H

"3

i%

<

W

g£ -

3 "=

a

s.

Dny-

Day-

Day-

Day-

lOths

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

0 aver

3

31

- 30

- 16

1 -

29 6-6

9

15

1 +

4

3'J

- 37 4- 0

7 +

29 -, ii

10

IS

2

■1 +

ok

10

+ 30 - 77

2 +

20 3-2

14

10

3

6 +

25

S

+ 00 - 144

2 +

29 :;-n

17

28

4

li +

30

10

+ 4s - 110

S +

80 vii

10

21

5

~ +

36

0

+ 74 - 137

7 +

28 !■„

11

25

6

2 +

10

10

- 7-11

6 +

80 8-0

4

15

7

1 +

■_■-

6

+ 47 - 77

o +

:n 0-2

13

39

s

'• +

41

II

+ 53 - SI

15 +

30 9 ■

20

22

9

3 +

'J.:

1-

- 5 - 0

7 +

S

21

10

4 +

::.;

0

f 27 - 32

00 +

32

»•)

14

22

*

T +

65

0

+ 12s _ |6

o +

30

r,-',

29

23

The districts indicated by number in the lirst column are
the following : —

0, Scotland, N. Principal Wheat-Producing Districts—
1, Scotland, E. ; 2, England, X.E. ; 3, England, E. ;
4, Midland Countii I I ad, [nolnding London, s.

Principal Grazing, £c, Districts — 6, Scotland, W. :
7, England, N.W. ; 8, England, S.W. ; l», Ireland, N. ;
10, Ireland, S. ; "Channel Islands,

ARKET3.

COVENT GARDEN, FEBRUARY 1(1.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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, hut only the general averages for the week preceding
the date of our report. Tin' prices depend upon tin-
quality "l 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. Ei>.]

Fruit.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Apples, per bushel

— Beeflngs, bushel

— Greenings, per

bu el

— Well . agtons,

bushel

— Sourjngs, per

bushel

— French, Rei-

nette Gris,

cases

Dieu Donne,

rases

Crabs, bush.

large cookers,

cases

— Nova Scotia

B a 1 d w i n a ,
< ; reenings,
Gold Russets,

&. other BOrtSj
per barrel ...

— C a 1 i f o r n i a n

New Towns,
Fancy Reds,

&c, pei ease

Bananas, per bunch

Chestnuts, Italian,
per bag

Cobnuts, per 100 lb.

Cranberries, Ameri-
can, box

Grapes, English,
Alicante, lb. ...

Potatos.

Beauties, Saxons, Giants, Up- to Date, Ac, according to
sample, 60s. to 80a. per ton ; Dunbar Main Crops, !>0s. John
Bath, 32 and 34, Wellington Street, Covent Garden.

Remarks. — Savoys nearly all over, and of all green vege-
tables a short supply.

j. -'. 8. d.

s. d, s. d.

3 0- 4 0

Grapes, QrosCohnar

1 6- J 3

4 0-00

— Muscats, per lb.

— Almeria, p. doz.

G 0- i'. u

4 0- 5 ii

11.

S 0-10 0

— Belgian, lb. ...

10-15

6 0-90

Lemons, jut r.'isr .
Lvchees, Chinese,

7 0-10 0

4 ii- 6 0

packet, 1 11

Nectarines, Cape,

16 —

case of js

13 0

4 6-00

Oranges, JaHa,crises
— Denia, case of

10 0-11 0

10 0 —

420 or 714 ...

7 0-11 0

4 0-00

— Mandarin, jikt.

of 10 boxes ...

5 0 —

7 0 —

— Valencia

— Seville Bitter,

7 0-12 0

per case

4 6-50

— Tangierine, box

of25

0 6-0 10

Peaches, Cape

14 0-25 0

— per case of 24...

Pears, Californian,

Easter Beurre,

10 0-14 0

case, 108

IS 0 —

7 0-10 6

half-cases ...

8 6 —

8 0-11 0

Pltvms, Cape, cases

of30

lo ii 12 0

7 14-14 0

Pines, St. Michael's,

30 0-10 0

each

8 0-00

strawberries, p. lb.

lo ii-l,; o

12 0 —

Walnuts, kiln-dried,

Naples, cwt. ...

36 0 —

10-20

peck

3 ii —

Anemones, dozen

bunchea

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms

Asparagus "Fern,"

bunch

Azalea, white, 12

bunches

Bouvardias, per bun.
Carnations, per doz.

blooms

Eucharis, per dozen
Gardenias, per doz.
Hyacinths, Roman,

per doz. bunches
Lilium longifiorum,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

dozen bunches ...
Marguerites, 12 bun.
Maidenhair Pern,

per doz. bunches

s. d. s. &
10-16

3 0-40
2 0-30

4 0- i) 0
0 4-00

16-30
•2 6-4 0
G 0-10 0

■r, 0-6 0

6 0-10 0
4 0-50

6 0-90

Narcissus, White, p.

dozen bunches ...
Orchids, per dozen

blooms

Pelargoniums, doz.

bunches

— scarlet, per doz.
bunches

Pink Roses, per

dozen
Roses (indoor), doz.

— Tea, -white, doz.

— Perle, per doz.

— Safrano, p. doz.
Smilax, per bunch
Tuberoses, 12 blins.
Tulips, per dozen...
Violets, per dozen

bunches

— Parma, bunch

3. d. s. d,
10-20

4 0-60
8 0-10 0

4 0-60

1 0- 2 0

2 0-30
10-20
16-20
2 0-30
0 S- 1 0
i) i;- i :s

0 G I 6

■■ Q ■> a

Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Arbor Vitte, p. doz. 12
Aspidistras, p. doz. IS

— specimen, each 5
Dracienas, various,

per doz 12

— viridis, p. doz. 0
Euony mus, various,

per dozen
Evergreens, in var.,

per dozen
Ferns, in variety,

per dozen

Vegetables.-

d. s. <!. I
0-36 0 '
0-36 0 :
0-10 0

0-30 0
0-1S 0

Ferns, small, per

100 4 0-

Ficus elastica, each 1 0-
Foliage plants, var.,

each 1 0-

Lycopodiums, doz. 3 0-

Marguerite Daisy,

C0-1S0; per dozen ... 0 0-

Myrtles, per doz.... 0 0-

6 0-24 0 Palms, various, ea. 1 0-

— specimens, ea. 21 o

4 0-12 0 Scarlets, per doz. 4 0-

6 0

5 0

6 0

4 0

5 0
9 0

IS 0
63 O

6 0

Artichokes, Globe,
per doz.

— Jerusalem, per
sieve 2

Asparagus, Paris,
green 6

— Giant, bundle.. 18

— Spanish, bund. 2

— Sprue 0

— English, per 100 7
Beans. Dwt's., Chan-
nel Islands, lb. 2

— French, per lb. 0

— Madeira, bkt. 2
Beetroots, per

dozen 0

— bushel ... ... 2

Broccoli Sprouts,

per bushel
Brussels Sprouts,
per sieve

— per bushel
Brussels tops, bush.
Cabbage, Cukwiit-,

per bushel

— Savoys, ji. di>z.

— — per tally

2 6-30
2 0 —
0 —

O I'll o
0 —
0 —
0- S 0

0 9
3 0

0 tf

3 0 —

3 0

Cauliflowers, p. doz. 1

— per tally ... S

— Italian, baskets

OflS

Celeriac, per dozen

Carrots, washed, in

bags

— unwashed

— Surrey.bunchs.

— Freneh flats ...
Celery, Red, dozen

bundles

— unwashed
Chicory, per lb. ...
Cress, doz. punnets
Cucumbers, perdoz.
Endive, Freneh, per

dozen ..

— Batavian, doz.
Garlic, per lb.
Horseradish, New

English, bundle

— — loose per
doz., fine

— Foreign, per
bundle

Leeks, doz. bunch.

Average Wholesale Prices
((. s. d.

Lettuce, Cabbage,
per doz.

Mint, new, forced,
perdoz. bunch.,
according to
size of bunch...

Mushrooms, house,
per lb

Onions, Albanians,
bags

— Dutch, per bag

— English, cwt...

— Valencia, cases

— pieklers, sieve
Parsley, per dozen

— sieve

Parsnips, per dozen

— cwt. bags
Peas, French, pkts.,

about 1 lb., doz.
Potatos, Hebrons,
Snowdrops. Dp*
to-Date,&c.,prr
ton C

— Xew Algerian
Kidneys, per
lb

— — Frame, lb.

— — TeneritIV,
per cwt. ... 1

Radishes. Round,
breakfast, per
dozen bunches

Rhubarb, York, per
doz. bundles ...

Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen

Scotch Kale, bushel

Seakale, per dozen
punnets

Shallots, per cwt....

Spinach, French,
crates

Tomatos, new
English, per lb.

— Canary, boxes..
Turnips, Eng., per

doz. bunches ...

— in bags

Tumip-T"i's, bag
Watercress, p. doz.

bunches
Yams from Canaries,
case

0 —
0-2 0
0-10 o
:>- 2 0
0-10 o

i 0 —
; 0 —

; 0 —

! 0- 2 6

0-2 0

0- 2 (I

d. s. d.
8 —

ii- .; 6
0 -, 6

5- 7 0
6-10 0
0 -

0 —
o —

6- o 9
0- 3 0

-0 2)

- ii 5

3 —

6-3 0

■ 0-12 0
i 0-10 0
i 3 —

6

o
l 6 -

6 0-80

12

0-14 0
u- ;> 0

2 0-26

2 0 — ,

1 3

2 6

0-13
0- 4 0

0 -
0-2 0
0 —

6-0 10

0 —

Answers to Correspondents.

— . —

Ai'Hi.MENKS : IT. H*. Longiflora and 1. alba patens
and patens alba, Ambioise Yerscliaffelt, picta,
Argus, Dazzle, Dr. Hopf, Grandis, Mauve Queen,
Sir Trelierue Thomas.

Books : W. If. B. No very modern manual on the
subject is in print. One of the best is Artixiic
Flower Decorations, illustrated by B. C. Saward,
and published at the Bazaar office, price '-'*'■
Enquiry at the office, 170, Strand, would elicit
information concerning the little work. There
are, we believe, several manuals on the subject
in the German language. — Illusl/ratcd S"jfira.
Pan' Emery. As you do not say of what country,
we cannot answer you.

Broad Beaks : F. K. Sow now in late and early
positions.

112

THE GAtiDENEttS' chronicle.

[FEBRUARY 18, 1890.

Calceolarias Turning Brown at the Edges
of the Leaves : Forfarshire. This may arise
from bruising, or punctures made by insects
(aphis), or from excessive dryness of the air, or
many other causes, which, for lack of information,
we can only surmise.
Chrysanthemum "The Queen:" X. Your ex-
perience certainly proves the variety to be a
good one for affording blooms during January.
Conservatory Heated by Gas-boiler : IF. W.
The plants die because the products of com-
bustion, or the gas, gets into the house, or
noxious fumes from another source.
Cool-housk Orchids: 0. T. Odontoglossum
gloriosum, 0. Pescatorei, 0. triumphans, 0.
Servantesii, 0. Rossii, 0. macranthum, Oncidium
macranthum, On. tigrinum, On. varicosum,
Vanda Kimballiana (should be wintered in a
warmer house), Masdevallia Harryaua, M.
Veitchi, M. ignea, Epideudrum vitellinum, Disa
grandiflora, Dendrobium Jamesianum, Cypri-
pedium insigne, C. villosum, Ccelogyne cristata,
Lsliapra-stans.AnguloaClowesii, Adaaurantiaca,
Cattleya Gaskelliaua, C. Warseewiczii (gigas), C.
labiata, C. Mendeli, C. citrina, Cymbidium
eburneum, Lycaste Skinneri, Thunia Marshalli-
ana, Sobralia macrantha, Calanthe x Veitchi,
and vars. of Calanthe vestita, Dendrobium nobile,
D. Ainsworthi, D. aureum, D. Findlayanum, and
some others. At certain seasons either of growth
or rest, some of the plants named will require to
be transferred to the intermediate or East Indian-
houses, but most of them may be cultivated the
year round in the cool-house. The list is by no
means an exhaustive one, but rather a selection
of species not difficult of cultivation.
Correction : Royal Horticultural Soc lecture, see
Gardeners' Chronicle, February 4, p. 78, for
muriate of potash read 2 cwts., not 20 cwts.
Crocus : Bradford. The corm has seemingly
failed to flower, because it had made top-growth
before there was root-activity. In the case of
all bulbs, efforts should be made to induce the
formation of roots before any leaves are pushed
forth.
Crotons : F. K. Yon will be doing rightly by
cutting-back the plants severely, employing the
healthy tops of branches for cuttings if you
require young plants. They will readily strike
in sandy soil, in strong heat, under a hand-light.
Cultivating Cucumbers and Tomatos for Sale :
O. If. Considering that you know nothing about
the culture of these plants, we consider that you
are a very rash man to embark forthwith on the
business of a market grower. Had you not better
study the methods of cultivation at a market
garden first, meanwhile reading a manual on each
— there are many — and then start the business '(
Flowering Season: Veritas. Cymbidium aloe-
folium flowers in September; and Trichopilia
laxa in October.
Gardeners' Directory: Leafless. Piocure the
Horticultural Directory and Year- Boob, published
at Journal of Horticulture office, 12. Mitre Court
Chambers, Fleet Street, London, E.C. ; or, The
Harden Annual, published at 37, Southampton
Street, Strand, W.C. The cost of either is Is.
Manures for Potatos in the Place of that of
the Farm-yard : A. C. C. That from the
piggeries, if partially decayed, or well-fermented
dung from a dovecot; Peruvian guano, native
gnano, fish-manure, raw and dissolved bones,
bone-meal, superphosphate of lime, or night-soil.
Most of these would serve as a top-dressing,
together with muriate of potash, at the rate of
2 oz. to the square yard, for the fruit-trees.
Moss on Lawn : F. K. See p. SO, in our issue for

February 4, present year.
Mushrooms : W. Button, and Geo. Farmer. Such
abnormalities are not uncommon, and we have
figured in back numbers of the Gardeners'
Chronicle specimens even more monstrous than
are yours. On p. 510, April 4, 1894, you may
see a Mushroom springing normally from the bed,
bearing upon its apex an inverted specimen, aud
this agaiu surmounted by another in correct
position. In regard to the "cluster" of forty-
five Mushrooms mentioned by IK. Button, we
may refer him to the Gardeners' Chronicle] June 18,
1898, p. 381, where was figured a cluster which
included 104 Mushrooms, aud weighed 5 lb. 2 oz.
Names of Fruit : Win. Camm. 1, French Crab ;
2, Claygate Pearmain ; 3, Court of Wick ; 4,

Not sent ; 5, Brabant Bellefleur ; C, worthless,
not known. It is a pity not to send these fruits
earlier in the season, when the characteristics of
the varieties are more evident. — C. Edwards.
Apple Mere de Menage.
Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — /. May. Desfontainea-
spinosa. — Murr. 1, Abies orientalis ; 2, Thuiopsis
dolabrata; 3, Juniperus chinensis; 4, Juniperus
recurva, figured in Gard. Chron., April 14, 18S3,
p. 468 ; 5, Sequoia sempervirens ; 6, Thuia nootka-
tensis alias Thuiopsis borealis. — T. P. 1, Lseliaan-
ceps ; 2, Cymbidium Lowianum. — H. A. B. 1,
Cryptomeria japonica ; 2, Veronica species ; send
when in flower. — Anxious. Phaius grandifolius. —
J.Morris. Cassia Chatelainiana. — W.S.C. P. We
cannot name Violets fromsuch specimens. Youhad
best send them to a nurseryman who may com-
pare them with growing plants. — P. Penge. 1,
Asplenium hifidum ; 2, Swainsonia sp. ; 3, pro-
bably an Abutilon ; 4, Acacia armata ; 5, the
grass is a species of Carex, which we are uuable
to name without flowers ; 6, Acacia dealbata. —
Miltonia. Your Pelargonium, for which you
suggest the name of York and Lancaster, is the
same as the variety cultivated by Messrs. H.
Cannell & Sons, Swanley, under the name of
Double New Life. — D. Mcintosh, Bray. Pittos-
porum undulatum.
Narcissus for Forcing. — The following varieties
of the trumpet section will be found to force
well in pots :— N. telamouius pleuus, Ard High,
Golden Spur, Princess, Spurius, Horsfieldi, Sir
Watkin, Henry Irving, Major, and Obvallaris.
We assume you intend to procure bulbs during
next autumn. No Narcissus, nor any flowering
bulb, should be forced two seasons in succession,
or the result will be very poor. For such pur-
poses, always procure the very best samples
possible, and when forced, they may be planted
out in the grounds.
Newly-imported Burmese Orchids : Aubipine.
Before any potting is done, hang the plants up
by the heels, in a warm, very moist house, till
growth of root aud top begins ; or place the roots
in new pots, and till up with clean crocks loosely,
aud wait, as by the other method. The crocks
may be moisteued once or twice daily as may he
found necessary.
Nursery Stock (way-going, not aged) : Nurseryman.
You should be allowed the time customary in
your district for a nurseryman to remove his
stock, i.e., six months or a year after the expira-
tion of the tenancy. If the landlord or the
incoming tenant takes the stock at a valuation,
that is another thing. If you took to stock, but
did not pay for it, you may find it to your
advantage to leave the landlord its equivalent.
Palm Seeds : II'. W. Sow forthwith iu a house,
pit, or frame, having a steady heat of 65° to 80°.
Plantain and other Coarse Weeds on the
Lawn : A. H. W. Let one person cut off the
heads of leaves, and another follow him with an
iron or earthenware vessel, having a high
bow handle, and holdiug vitriol, and let him be
provided with a pointed stick, wherewith to
place a few drops of the vitriol on the top of each
root thus exposed. The roots will die, and the
bare spots may be coated with loam, and sown
with the finest Grasses in April, or earlier if the
weather keeps mild. These coarse weeds may
be choked out of existence by encouraging the
growth of the tiuer Grasses by meaus of dressings
of fish manure, rotten dung, wood-ashes, aud
loam, but it takes some years, and the above
method is very effectual as well as rapid. The
man with the vitriol-pot should wear thick gloves
as a safeguard.
Rcom Plants .G.N. A moderate number of
scentless flowering plants in a room do not cause
suffering. Strongly-scented flowers sometimes
do, when in quantity, cause headache and nausea
in delicate persons ; as for example, Hyacinths,
Narcissus, Jonquils, Crinums, Eucharis, Gar-
denias, Stephauotis, &c. Gardeners who work
among thousands of these species of plants are
not affected by them, and we doubt if others are
much affected. The room must be very small
and ill-ventilated where these plauts cause
suffering. Carbonic acid gas is given off by
the leaves in small volume during the hours of
darkness.
Shkubs near Dwelling-houses : D. There is no
reason why the shrubs should not be allowed to

remain in close proximity to two sides of a house,
which is entirely open to the east. The house,
standing on a knoll separated by dry hollow's
(whose sides form the shrubbery in question),
from a double line of high trees 50 or GO yards
distant ; and the shrubs, being below the level of
the foundation, could suffer no harm, nor would
the inmates. There might be offence created if
much tree-foliage was permitted to rot under the
bushes, but that might be averted by burning it
in the middle of the spaces between them, or
raking them out and carrying them to the leaf-
heap. Masses of tall trees coming to within 20
yards of a dwelling are not desirable.
Soil from Brook : Loam. The soil you send is of
such a retentive nature, that we should be dis-
inclined to use it for the cultivation of auy
plant in a pot. Should you decide to make use
of it in the case of Tomatos or Cucumbers in
borders, you will do well to break it up as tho-
roughly as possible, and mix with it a good
proportion of lime-rubble, burnt-ash, or other
material that will be likely to render it more
porous and more conducive to root-formation.
You might add a little rotted manure.
Sowing Seeds of Celosia plumosa : A. P.
Sow in the first or second week of March in well-
drained pots filled with light sandy soil, in heat
of 75°. Grow on the seedlings in the same degree
of heat for a week or two, affording air on sunny
days for a few hours, but watching the frame
carefully lest injury be done by cold draughts ;
shade lightly, aud ouly when the sunshine is
bright. Prick off before crowding takes place, and
pot off into 60's, and then in 48's. The process
of hardening off must be patiently carried out,
and should extend over three weeks at least. The
first or second weeks in June will be sufficiently
early to plant them in the beds. It is as well to
have a successional sowing.
The Prevention of Stagnation of Water in a
Tub containing Xvmfh.ei Plants : S. W..
If you could keep the water agitated by means of
a little overshot paddle-wheel, which would aerate
the water in the tub, as well as afford a
constant intrickling supply of water, it would be
as good an arrangement as any. The water
might be derived from an over-head tauk or
barrel, or from the water mains.
Vineries : Late and Early : E. B. An early
vinery, started about four weeks ago, should not,
as early as this, be kept at 60° at night ; rather, a
steady maximum degree of warmth of 50" to 52°
would be more suitable, and by day 60°, with air
afforded in mild weather for several hours. The
heat, day and night, may be increased about 1° a
week. Of course, on warm days rather more
than this. The fire should be banked down, or
the flow in the pipes checked, if there is a diffi-
culty in keeping a proper degree of warmth.
The two Yiues which have the more prominent
buds, may consist of varieties that respond
quicker than the other Vines in the house to the
forcing process, or the house or the border is
from some cause slighly warmer where they are
growing. You may come upon the cause when
you have been longer in charge of the vinery.
Do not rely so much ou the syringing of the
Yines, but more on damping down. A bed of
stable manure and tree-leaves is of much use iu
this connection, only it should not be built on
the border, but on a platform raised 6 inches
above it. Turn the materials once a week, and
agaiu put them compactly together. Such a heap
of warm materials is useful iu forcing shrubs and
bulbs, rooting cuttings, or forcing Rhubarb, care
being taken that the roots of the plants do not get
scalded. Otherwise your methods seem all
right, except in the matter of temperatures.
Let the late vinery start almost without the use
of artificial heat.
Vines kor Sale Purposes: A. R. Any good
manual on Vine-culture would afford the sort of
information that you need. You might obtai»
Barron's Vines and Vine Culture, published at
12, Mitre Court Chambers, Fleet Street ; it is
one of the best.

Communications Received. — F. C.--C. Wolley Doil.— Malcolm
Dunn — It. I. L.— Justus Cordeioy.— E. S., Woking.— H. W.
— D. T. F.— F. W. B. — E. W. B.--W. N. B— Col. B.— W. T.
— L.'C— W. W.-G. H. T.— T B.— H. ami K., Exeter— New
Hampshire.— G. W. A.— F. P.— H. S.— H. F. G.— W. R.—
H. P. — W. S.— C. S. F. A. -J. O'B. — F. N. — W. E.-
P.Bolt— D. T. F.— G. H.— Garten van Gesellschaft, Vienna.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks.—
J. D.

Fkbrcarv 25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE.

113

v*um£~^.

THE

(fawtfawi' dptnmiclc

No. «3r>. — SATURDAY, FEB. 25, 1899.

SUBURBAN GARDENS IN 1796.

rp< (WARDS the latter part of the last century,
-*- an enterprising publisher conceived the
idea of producing a pocket-companion to the
suburbs of London ; and when the idea became
transformed into a reality, it met with so much
success, that edition after edition was ex-
hausted. The title of the book was Tin- Ambu-
lator; or, " Pocket-companion in n Tour Bound
London, within a Ovrcuii of '25 Miles. The copy
which recently fell into the hands of the present
writer is dated 1790 (the earliest issue which we
have been able to trace is dated 1774), it being
the " eighth edition, augmented and improved."
Not the least interesting portion of the book is
tin' preliminary account of the metropolis, from
which we learn that the population of London
at that date was computed at less than 600,000.
Quoting from another author, the compiler
nods approval, so to speak, to the following
statement : — " The country round, especially on
the London-side [of the Thames] is nearly open
to some distance, whence, by the action of the
sun and wind on a gravelly soil, it is kept
tolerably dry in all seasons, and affords no
lodgment for stagnant air or water. The cleanli-
ness of London, as well as supply of water, are
greatly aided by its situation on the banks of
the Thames," and so forth. It seems almost
impossible to believe that London was ever
anything bnt gloomy and grimy, and yet here
we have an unimpeachable witness to the con-
trary. It is not, however, with London itself
that we have to deal just now, but with a few
of the Ambulator's descriptions of the suburban
gardens.

The arrangement of the book is alphabetical,
and the earliest reference of more immediate
interest to us occurs under .Barnes, which is
described as a "village in Surrey." On Barnes
Terrace, we are told, Lady Archer had a villa,
" noted for its fine greenhouses; it is now the
residence of the Marquis de (.'babe, a French
emigrant." To this we may add that, Lady
Archer's house was furnished and decorated
in the Chinese style, and that her grounds were
five acres in extent, and sloped down to the
Thames. Our Ambulator further tells us that
in 1653 a certain Edward Rose left £20 to the
poor of Barnes " for the purchase of an acre of
land, on condition that the pales should be
kept up, and the Rose-trees preserved." If
Mr. Rose were to come to life again, he would
be very much surprised to learn that he would
be unable to purchase a bit of land large enough
to accommodate half-a-dozen Rose-trees at
Barnes for his modest legacy of £20 !

Battersea, which is also described as "a
village in Surrey," is not a place one would
select for its gardening possibilities, for
there is no land now left on which to experi-
ment. Battersea Park is, however, a beautiful
example of what can be accomplished in crowded
districts. In 1790 Battersea "has been long
famous for the finest Asparagus." The public

tea-gardens of Bayswater, "a small hamlet in
the parish of Paddington," were "about twenty-
five years ago," the gardens of the late Sir John
Hill, " who here cultivated his medicinal
plants, and prepared from them his tinctures,
essences, &c."

Beddington, two miles west of Croydon, was
famous for its "gardens with choice frttt trees,"
in which Sir Francis Carew, the former owner,
took great delight. He " spared no expense in
procuring them from foreign countries. The
first Orange-trees seen in England are said to
have been planted by him." These trees were
planted in the open ground, and were preserved
in the winter by a moveable shed. They
" flourished for about a century and a half,
being destroyed by the hard frost of 1739-1740."
At Brompton, "a hamlet of Kensington,"
"Mr. William Curtis has a botanical garden,
near the Queen's Elm turnpike ; " and, further,
we are informed that "subscribers to this
garden, at one guinea per annum, are entitled
to the privilege of walking in it, inspecting the
plants, perusing the books in the botanical
library, and examining the extensive colled ion
of drawings in natural history," Ac. A sub-
scription of two guineas secured .still further
advantages ; but non subscribers were admitted
on payment of half-a-crown. Curtis had removed
here from Lambeth Marsh, where he had been
established for many years. A botanic garden
in the evil-smelling slums of what is now known
as the New Cut, seems too absurd to have been
a fact, even a century ago I

The park of Bush Hill, the scat of .Mrs.
Catherine Mellish, is said to have been origin-
ally laid out, by Le Notre, the celebrated French
gardener.

Campden House, Kensington, which in 1796
was "an eminent ladies' boarding-school,"
then boasted of "a remarkable Caper -tree,
which has endured the open air of this
climate for the greatest part of a century, and,
though not within the reach of artificial heat,
produces fruit every year." Campden lb. use
still exists, but the Caper-tree, whatever it may
have been, has long since ceased to produce fruit.
The account, of Chelsea is largely taken
up with the Apothecaries' Garden and Sir Hans
Sloane. "Oh the north side of the garden
is a spacious greenhouse, 110 feet long," and
on "the south side are two Cedars of Libanus,
of large growth and very singular form. They
were planted in 1685, being then 3 feet high ;
in 1793 tlie girth of the larger, at 3 feet from
the ground, was 12 feet 11± inches ; that of the
smaller, 12 feet 9| inches." Assuming the date
of planting to be correct, the two famous Cedars
have now weathered the storms of over two hun-
dred years. [One died several years ago, and
the other is nearly dead. En.]

The compiler of the A mhdator, in his account
of Clapham, another "village" in. Surrey, states
what appeared to him to be a very startling
fact, that a certain Mr. Baldwin "sold 14 acres
of land " for £5000. It would be very interest-
ing to know how much this little plot of land
is worth at the present moment.

Eltham has during the past few years been
more associated in the average person's mind
with the late Col. North than with royalty or
horticulture. Yet here in 1790 " the handsome
garden of Mr. Dorrington " contained " a green-
house in which were formerly kept the exotics
of that eminent botanist, Dr. Sherrard. The
limine Elthamensis is well known to the curious
in botany."

One of the most interesting entries is
that which relates to Fulham, "a village of

Middlesex." The writer tells us that the
gardens of the Bishop's Palace were first noted
in the time of Bishop Grindall, "one of the
earliest enoouragors of botany, and the first who
imported the Tamarisk-tree into this oountry,
about the year 1500. Bishop Compton, who
was himself an excellent botanist, made them
still more celebrated by the introduction of
many new plants and forest-trees, particularly
from North America. Of these, the following
only were remaining on a survey of the garden
in 1793 ; and these may be regarded with some
veneration by the botanist, as the parent-stocks
of their respective races in this kingdom."
Then follows a list of the plants, with girths
taken at 3 feet from the ground, and their
computed height. The trees were Acer Negundo,
Cupressus sempervirens, Juniperus virginiana,
•Juglans nigra, Pinns Pinaster, Quercns alba, Q.
Suber, Q. ilex, Acer rubrum, and two " Gle-
ditschia triacantha."

There is an exhaustive description, historical
and otherwise, of the celebrated Fairlop ( lak
in Hainault Forest ; tradition, observes Gilpin,
"traces it half way up the Christian Era,"
but the "high winds" of February, 1820,
completely destroyed this historic tree.

Hampton Court, one of the chief "lions
of the suburbs, occupies several pages, but
the only paragraph which we now quote runs
as follows: "The celebrated Brown had his
present Majesty's permission to make whatever
improvements in these gardens his fine imagi-
nation might suggest; but he declared liis
opinion, that they appeared to the best
advantage in their present state."

Having regard to the fact that Ken-
sington Palace is about to be thrown open
to the public, it is interesting to learn that
"the gardens were originally only 20 acres.
Queen Anne added 30 acres, which were laid
out by her gardener, Mr. Wise ; but the
principal addition was made by Queen Caroline,
who took in near 300 acres from Hyde Park,
■which were laid out by Bridgman, and they
have since been improved by Brown. They are
33, miles in circumference, and have for many
years past been a very fashionable promenade."
The very long and interesting account of
Kew Gardens, at that time comprising about
120 acres, is not original, but is copied from a
description by Sir William Chambers.

Coming to Lambeth Palace, "the gardens
and park which contain," we are told, "near
13 acres, are laid out with great taste ; " and
further, that they contain "two remarkable
Fig-trees of the White Marseilles, which bear
delicious fruit. Tradition says, they were
planted by Cardinal Pole. They cover a sur-
face of 50 feet in height, and 40 feet in breadth ;
the circumference of the furthermost is 28 ins.,
of the other 21 ins." (See Gardeners' Chronicle,
Oct. 2."., 1880, p. 528.)

Of the celebrated garden of the Tradescants
"there are now no traces." Peckham, a
"hamlet of Caniberwell," contained the seat,
built in the reign of James II., by Sir
Thomas Bond (and afterwards occupied by Lord
Trevor), who apparently took great interest in
his garden. "The kitchen-garden and the
walls were planted with the choicest fruit-trees
from France, and an experienced gardener was
sent for from Paris to have the management of
them, so that the collection of fruit-trees in this
garden has been accounted one of the best in
England." The house, however, was pulled down
a few months after the Ambulator appeared,
and Hill Street now covers a portion of the
site.

114

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 25, 1899.

Richmond, " the finest village in the British
dominions," occupies a very considerable space,
for its attractions in 1796, as in 1899, were
extremely numerous. The royal gardens " were
altered to their present form by Brown, to
whose exquisite taste in the embellishment of
rural scenery the didactic poet [Mason] paid
this merited eulogy, while he was living to
enjoy it :—

" Him, too, the living leader of thy powers,
J Great Nature ! him the Muse shall hail in notes

Which ante-date the praise true genius claims
\_ From just posterity. Bards yet unborn

Shall pay to Brown tbat tribute, htliest paid
J In strains the beauty of his scenes inspire."

The beautiful gardens, " stored with a great
many curious exotics," at Sion House, "were
principally laid out "by the inevitable Brown,
whose familiar appellation of "Capability"
Brown, if it does not readily lend itself to poetic
treatment, is a well-earned tribute to his fertility
of resource.

The last entry to which attention need be
called relates to Walham Green, " a village of
Middlesex." Here, we are told, is " a curious
garden, planted since the year 1756, by its
present possessor, John Ord, Esq." "Within
a short space it has produced trees which are
now the finest of their respective kinds in the
kingdom, particularly the Sophora japonica,
planted in 1756, now 8 feet in girth, and 40 feet-
high ; a standard Ginkgo-tree, planted in 1767,
2 feet 3 inches in girth ; and an Illinois Walnut,
sown in 1760, 2 feet 2 inches in girth. Among
other trees, also remarkable for their growth,
though not the largest of their kind, are a black
Walnut-tree, sown in 1757, about 40 feet high,
and 5 feet 4 inches in girth ; a Cedar of Libanus,
planted in 1756, 8 feet 8 inches in girth ; a
Willow-leaved Oak, sown in 1757, 4 feet in
girth ; the Rhus vernix, or varnish Sumach,
4 feet in girth ; and a stone Pine of very sin-
gular growth. The girth of the last, at 1 foot
from the ground, is 6 feet 4 inches, at that
height it immediately begins to branch out, and
spreads at least 21 feet on each side, forming a
large bush of about 14 yards in diameter.

Such, then, are a few "points" relative to
the suburban gardens of rather more than a
century ago, very many of which have long
since given way to the encroachments of bricks
and mortar. That gardening was as popular in
1796 as it is in 1899 is a fact which does not
require any elaborate demonstration ; and that
it was, in a circumscribed manner, as successful,
the few foregoing extracts will, I think, amply
prove. W. Roberts.

New or Noteworthy Plants.

MINA CORDATA.
The Journal tie la Societd Nationzdc d' Horticul-
ture, de France records, in the following terms, a
plant exhibited by M. Marc Micheli at a recent
meeting of the above Society : — " Mina cordata is
a new undescribed species from Mexico. The
seeds were received in April, 1898. Sown at once,
they soon germinated, and the plants developed
vigorously. In September tbey covered a wall
10 feet higb. Unfortunately, owing to the late
sowing, only a few inflorescences were fully ex-
panded before the first frosts came. In the early
days of October several cuttings were made in the
manner described as pursued with Mina lobata in
the Bevui Horticoh, 1S92, p. 455. The majority
uf these cuttings succeeded, and are now in bloom,
some in a warm, others in a temperate-house.
Therefore, it is hoped that good plants will be
obtained this year. Other cuttings without a heel

gave less satisfactory results. Mina cordata is in
growth like Mina lobata, and can be used in
similar ways. It is distinguished by having entire,
cordiform, not lobed leaves, and by the colour of
the flowers, which show pretty magenta stripes on
a paler ground."

s\\ -v
W >1

Society on Feb. 14 of the present year (tig. 44). The
parents were D. Findlayanum and D. Ainsworthi,
and, as was stated in our report (Gardeners'
Chronicle, February 18, p. 108), it belongs to D. x
chlorostele group, but its bright-looking flowers
are greatly superior, and their beauty is euhanced

| » «

(lii*;

k^||5^^^^\

Fig. 4:i. -phal-enopsis x mrs. j. ii. veitch.

PHAL.ENOPSIS MRS. J. H. VEITCH.

We have in this cross betwixt P. Luddemauniana
aud P. Sanderiaua a flower which is remarkable
among PhaUenopsids in shape and colouring. The
sepals and petals are of a greenish-yellow tint, with
brownish-crimsou dots (tig. 43). The front lobe of
the lip is white, and a little yellow tinge is notice-
able in the throat. It received, on the occasion of

by the rich, dark purple colour of the throat, which
forms a sharp contrast with the rest of the flower.
It was raised, we believe, at Burford.

FERNS.

After the dull, foggy weather we have experi-
enced during the past few months, it is interesting
to note the effects produced on various classes of

m
if

FlQ. 44.— DENllROBIITM >, JUNO.

its being exhibited by the raisers, Messrs. J. Veitch
& Sous, on February 14 last, at the Drill Hall,
James Street, an Award of Merit.

DENDROB1UM x JUNO.

A beautiful cross-bred Dendrobium was shown
by Sir Trevor Lawrence, under the name given
above, at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural

plants ; and, although Ferns are usually associated
with shade aud moisture, there is perhaps no class
of plants which, when kept in an active state of
growth during the winter, are more benefited by
the bright rays of the sun ; and with regard to
fog, it is curious to note, that some of those which
would appear to be the most likely to suffer escape
unhurt, while others of a hardier nature suffer
considerably. Taking Adiautums, the beautiful

February 2.", 1S9S.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

115

Farleyense has come through remarkably well,
especially plants suspeuded to the roof, where they
get all the light possible. They have not only
retained their matured fronds well, but the new ones
have developed as perfect as in summer, though, of
course, they are devoid of the beautiful pink tint
seen in sunny weather. A. elegaus : this grows and
produces perfect fronds, where the old favourite,
A. cuneatum, makes ouly a weak attempt to grow ;
elegaus also retains a blighter and fresher colour in
the matured fronds ; A. Birkenheadi is another Fein
worthy of note, as resisting the baucful effects of
fog. The Gymnogrammas are quite impervious to
fog ; this is probably owing to the fronds being
covered with the powder or farina. They suffer
from cold or excess of moisture ; but where a good
warmth is maintained, they go through the winter
well.

I rind it is those with a bright, smooth surface
to their fronds, which suffer most. Cyrtomium

Pterises, but with care in selecting spores good
results may be obtained, and seedliugs make much
better plants than divisions. I have found I).
tijieusis to vary much, some of the seedlings being
more robust, and others dwarf and compact, with
very finely-cut fronds. Dissecta, elegans, Mariesii,
and others may be recommended. Of Pteris, the
most useful crested variety is Wimsetti, though
cretiea cristata and serr. cristata eompacta still
remain favourites with many. Of the plain forms
cretiea major or Ouvraidi now holds first place ; it
is a splendid Fern for winter work.

Phlebodium aureum is a fine Fern for winter,
and keeps the beautiful glaucous lute unless exposed
to a very low temperature ; but I find that after
beiug exposed to cold the fronds go black, the
damage may not be seen for some days perhaps,
aud though they may last for some time while kept
cold, they show the effects very soon when taken
iuto warmth again. Aspleniums of the bulbiferum

Pig. 45. — PHAIUS x : a cross between v. manni and p. tuberculoses.

falcatum, and Polystichum coriaceum, or others of
similar texture, I have seen with their frouds
having the appearance of having been scorched
;ifter a dense fog, while others of a more tender
nature have escaped unhurt. Nephrolepis go
through the bad weather well, and will continue
to make good growth provided sufficient warmth
can be given. Of Ferus grown for market these
have come much to the front within the last three
or four years. N. exaltata, that is found the most
useful, and it is as a basket-plant that it is most
appreciated. During the past season they were
much used in London. I saw it used in several
instances for hangiug from balconies, and where
sheltered from the wind they last a considerable
time. N. philippinense is a good hardy kind, and
makes a compact plant. Most of the varieties are
found very useful, aud when grown where they are
well exposed to the light they make fronds of good
substance.

Oavallias of the Haresfoot type are all useful.
They do not come from spores so freely as the

type are good winter Ferns ; biforme, of which
there are several slight variations, is the most
generally grown. H. A.

PHAIUS x

When" the Royal Horticultural Society met on
February 14 last, Messrs. Sander & Co., St. Albans,
showed a very handsome form of Phaius (fig. 45),
obtained by them by crossing P. Manni with P.
tuberculosus. The flower is well expanded, richly
coloured, aud a great addition to our winter-flower-
ing Orchids.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings,

ODONTOGLOSSUM x ANDERSONIANUM,
WESTONBIRT VARIETY.

Few imported Orchids vary so much as do the
forms which the late Professor Reichenbach ulti-
mately combined under 0. x lanceans, a fact ac-

counted for by their hybrid origin, and in the
probability that some of them are secondary
crosses, reverting in some instances towards 0. glori-
osum, and in others towards 0. crispum. Hence it is
that some of the forms in their small size, narrow
segments, and other characteristics, are but little
removed from 0. gloriosum, and are consequently
but little esteemed by orchidists ; while others, iu
far less quantity, have the size, form, and handsome
appearance of O. crispum, and, consequently, are
highly prized.

A grand inflorescence of one of the largest aud
showiest forms I have ever seen has been for-
warded me by Captain Holford,Westonbirt, Tetbury
(gr., Mr. A. Chapman), where, in the time of the
late Robert Stayner Holford, one of our earliest
and best collections of Orchids was formed. The
sepals are 3} inches across, and the petals which
are J inch wide, 3 inches across ; they are cream-
white, the sepals having each a group of seven to
ten red-brown spots along the middle, and the
petals a similar marking of smaller spots, with the
addition of three short red lines at the base. The
lip is very different from that of the ordinary 0. x
Andersonianum in form, it being ovate and crimped
at the edge, white, with one large blotch in the
centre, and some red markings on each side of the
upper portion, the area in front of the callus being
bright yellow, The whole flower is sufficiently
showy to be classed with spotted forms of 0.
crispum. Jos. O'Brien.

DeNDKOBIUM PlliRARM LAT1IOLUM AND D.

PRIMUL1NUM GIGANTEUM.
I couple these two Dendrobiums together, because'
in many respects they are very similar, though
there is sufficient diversity in the bulbs, leaves,
and growth to warrant the reteution of the names
as they now appear. These varieties do not appear
to be grown so much as used to be the case. The
colours of the flowers are not so striking as those
of others, some of which may be grown just as
easily, but for arranging with other plants in the
conservatory or show-house there are few varieties
more beautiful than are these. The former can be
grown with pseudo-bulbs some 3 to 4 feet long, and
the latter still from 2 to 3 feet. They are best
grown in baskets or on blocks ; the former method
is perhaps preferable, but care must be taken that
the basket used be not too large. It is better to
water often during the growing season thau to have
large quantities of mossy soil remaining wet for a
lengthened period.

I know the object of most Orchid growers is to
possess aud continue to grow the original plant,
and endeavour to increase it in bulk and general
effect ; but it is not always the case that increasing
dimensions arc correspondingly followed by greater
floriferousness, or flowers of finer hue and substance.
Very often a plaut is retained in the original bulk,
when one side will grow- freely, aud flowers appear
numerous enough ; whilst another portion is
dwindling, puny, and unsatisfactory. Still, it is a
large plant, and it is imagined that skill and atten-
tion are rewarded in the fact that it is kept intact
and growing. Much better it would seem to be to
break up the masses, and instead of seeking to have
large specimens, moderately flowered, to grow
medium-sized plants, full of vigorous growths, aud
flowering with freedom and strength.

So with these two varieties. If plants with two
or three floweriug bulbs, of the lengths indicated,
were in baskets, and when in flower suspended
among other choice plants, the effect would giv*
satisfaction.

D. Pierardi latifolium will shortly be in flower,
for if the necessary rest has been given, it will by
now have been placed in the warm-house again,
and numerous buds showing along a good portion
of the bulbs. When in flower, endeavour to retain
the blooms fresh as long as possible, for at best
they will not last more than two or three weeks ;
aud as the flowers pass away, aud the growth of
the new bulbs advance, seek by heat, moisture, and
a fair amount of light, to obtaiu stout, lengthy,

116

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[FEBRUARY 25, 1899.

and plump pseudo-bulbs, Do not be afraid of
keeping the plants fairly dry during the resting
season, and if the leaves fall off, no harm need be
feared.

D. prinmlinum giganteum is generally a little
later iu flowering than the one previously men-
tioned, but in all respects the cultivation needed is
the same. This includes heat, moisture, and light
when growing, but not direct sunshine, and occa-
sionally syringing under stages, or watering the
earth surfaces with manure-water. If at times
the glass registers at shut ting-up time S.">°, till or
even beyond, no harm will follow if other conditions
are the proper ones. W. Swan.

NEW VARIETIES OF CUPEESSI'S
LAWSONIANA.

Sinck the introduction of Cupressus Lawsoniana
from Northern California iu 1853, by Murray, its
usefulness in various directions has been well recog-
nised. It is the hardiest known Cypress, even
young plants of it being rarely killed in the severest
winters. As a specimen tree, the size to which it
will grow, coupled with its handsome appearance,
are such as to commend it to the attention of every
tree planter. Several beautiful specimeus are to be
met with in the neighbourhood of Wokiug, as at
Bytleet, the London Necropolis Cemetery, which is
largely decorated l>y trees of Cupressus Lawsoniana,
which are of great size. Probably the largest speci-
mens occurring iu the British Isles are the two
recorded at the Conifer Conference of the Royal
Horticultural Society in 1892 — that growing at
Dupplin, Perthshire, which iu that year was 55 feet
in height, with a stem-girth of 4 feet 3 inches ; and
another big one is to be found at Tortoisk, Argyll-
shire. :I4 frii in height, with a stem girth of
8 feet G inches. The variability of this Cypress
when raised from seed is very remarkable, and
numerous forms are now recognised iu gardens.
During the past few years several which are quite
distinct forms have been raised, which are likely
to become valuable iu gardens. Although these
novelties may not be used to the same extent as
the type, they will be employed sparsely iu gardens.
Of these varieties I may name the following :—

Triomph de Boskoop, with foliage of a bluish
shade, and of such an extent is this tint, that the
variety might be fittingly named the Blue Cypress.
In growth and habit it resembles the type, being as
vigorous and free of growth. Owing to its remark-
able colour and fast growth, it is likely to become a
popular subject for garden planting. Its name
indicates Dutch origin.

Var. fill/era ijlanea is an equally valuable
but very distinct variety, of robust growth and
pendulous habit, resembling in this respect C. L
hlifera. The deep blue colour of its foliage is very
decided, aud the gracefulness of the thread like
branches is an additional charm. Having been in-
troduced about two years since, only small trees are
obtainable at nurseries. It originated in Messrs.
K. YVezelenhurg & .Sons' nurseries in Holland.

Voir. Wisteli, a distinct-looking form, which cannot
be praised too much. Its growth is strong aud com-
pact, and the habit stoutly columnar. It has also
foliage of a blue tint, but a distinct habit of growth
is its chief point.

Var. erecta viridis Jiliformw, a form that partakes
more or less of the style of 0. L. erecta viridis, but
differing in having thread-like growth of branches,
although its colour is exactly the same, namely,
light green. The growth is vigorous. E.S., Woking.

MARKET (. WIDENING IN THE
CHANNEL ISLES: JERSEY

{' 'ontin "< dfi om p. ';7. )

Various >"i rseries, &c. One day I was
privileged to accompany a leading grower on a
business journey ; we covered a good distance,
inspecting and notiug the fruit as it appeared
in many of the fruit-growers' gardens and farms.
Upon entering the Imperial Nurseries, those that

were held so long by Mr. C. B. Saunders, aud
yet more recently by Mr. H. Becker, we noticed many
fine fruit-trees in full bearing. There were choice
fruits of Louise Bonne of Jersey, Van Mods Leon lc
Clerc, Beurre Bachelier, very tine ; Williams' Bon
Chretien, Brockworth Park, Beurre de l'Assomp-
tiou, 1 lb. each ; Beurre d'Amaulis. Here, too,
were excellent fruits of Andre Despartes, a grand
October Pear, of large size, excellent flavour, a
heavy and certain cropper; General Todtleben,
Beurre d'Anjou, very large trees, iu wonderful
bearing; Napoleon III., an early Pear, of large
size, very free iu setting, sweet and delicious in
flavour; Beurre d'Areuberg, Beurre Sterekman,
line tree, with large and well shaped fruit : Jules
d'Airolles, a late Pear, delicious iu flavour, in many
respects resembling a Marie Louise. I noticed
here, under some of the trees, numerous empty
flower pots, of J about 6-inch size, plunged in
the ground almost the whole of their depth.
On enquiry, I was informed that the manure-
water is poured into these, and passes directly
downwards to the roots. We then visited the
Caesarian Nurseries, where we gathered some very
flue Apples anil Pears ; aud theuce to the fruit farm
of Mr. De Guelle, Grouville, where there were
grand Apples, some Peasgood's Nonsuch weighing
27 oz. From this garden fruits weighing uo lesv
than 34 oz. of this variety have been gathered from
espalier trees. Bismarck on espaliers were very
large, aud of a brilliant colour ; Gloria Muudi were
immense fruit gathered from a wall. This is rather
tender flesh, still here it is a very free bearer.
Beauty of Kent, Calville rouge d'Anjou, very flue
Apple; Cornish Gillillower, fruit of unusual size ;
aud Monstreuse Incomparable, fruit of large
dimensions, weighing 24 and 2(3 oz. Another very
fine sort was Belle de Cholet. Here we saw a verj
line Plum named Jersey Lily growing on a wall.
The tree was very vigorous, the fruit was yellow,
with bright rosy spots, and a purplish bloom showed
over all. The fruits were of large size, measuring
4 inches iu length. Some of these had weighed
just a quarter of a pound apiece.

In tin- houses was a line lot of Tomatos, the
variety grown being Chemiu Rouge, of which the
grower speaks very highly.

At another farm we admired the wondrous
fertility of the many large pyramidal Pear-trees.
Tin Pears were of splendid size, and as the gather-
ing was taking place we noticed with much pleasure
the care with which each was handled. Most
of tin' trees were literally loaded with fruit: the
Williams' Bon Chretien were being despatched as
quickly as possible. These fruits were splendid in
size, aud delicious iu flavour. Doyenne du Cornice
had fruits exceptionally line, sine- some had just
been gathered weighing 27 oz. Of Beurre Ba-
chelier fruit had been gathered weighing 40 oz.
The proprietor had on a previous seasou exhibited
twenty-five fruits of this latter variety which
averaged 1J lb. in weight. The space devoted to
these fruit-trees is considerable, but one could not
also held uoticiug the numb ir of trees on auy given
spot, the healthy condition, aud the heavy crop
overy tree was bearing. Here, too, were Apples
of large size, ami trees bearing heavy crops.

.Many excellent things were sen on this day's
journeyings that impressed me very much with the
wondrous fertility of the soil, the healthy condition
of the trees, the freedom from blight aud scale,
the large crops most of the trees were bearing, the
beauty and fitness of the climatic conditions; aud,
perhaps more than all, the steady and persistent
labour expended on all connected with fruit-culture.
May the success already achieved by so many be
trebled in the future.

Private Garden.

The Firs, Cuba. — I was privileged to visit this
garden in company with Mr. Simpson, the
gardener. The park and pleasure-grounds are of
considerable extent, aud the fine trees and clumps
of Bamboos formed a picture that will not be easily
effaced from my memory. It was not as single plauts

or solitary clusters that Bamboos came into view,
but as veritable groves and plantations. Aruudi-
naria viride-glaucescens, B. Metake, and B. Quilloi,
were of unusual dimensions ; in some cases many
stems of 20 feet in height were noticed, and exceed-
ingly graceful withal ; aud so dense and impene-
trable the thickets, that in many places it was
impossible to cuter them. Arundinaria aurea and
A. nigra were equally fine and tall, and stout in
the stems.

Standing iu the park, there were remarked a
Japanese temple and a dwelling-house, the approach
to the temple being led over flat stones laid on
the grass, and then up several flights of steps,
ascending to the centre of the buildiug. The
dwelling-house is an object of great interest, and
affords a good idea of the ordinary Japanese couutry-
dwelling. The park, as has beeu said, is extensive.

Iu the gardens near the owner's house were more
large Bamboos, several Cordyline iudivisa, Melian-
thus major, quite tall, and not as we in England
are~ accustomed to see this plant ; Edwardsia,
Sophora japoniea, with its finely -cut foliage,
flowers very freely ; Phormiums in variety ;
Chamterops, Aralias, Magnolias, as immense trees ;
Abutilons, Plumbago capensis, Iponnea Learii,
Lapageria rosea, aud large standard Figs, every-
thing luxuriantly growing. To have such sur-
roundings to a large flower-garden (which itself was
gay with bright and showy subjects), and to see
them repeated in specimens, S, 10, and 12 feet high,
with Camellias and Azalea indica as common
shrubs, and a number of plants usually considered
in England as inmates of the intermediate or cool
greenhouses, was a great source of delight as well
as a surprise.

The kitchen-garden, of fair size, contained good
crops of most sorts of vegetables, and standards
and pyramids of Apples and Pears, which were
splendid objects, bearing in most instances large
crops of fine-looking fruit. Iu a low-roofed vinery
black Alicante Grapes hung iu splendid profusion
and condition, the bunches unusually large and of
symmetrical proportions, many turning the scale
at 3 lb. each, with berries of an intense black. It
was a pleasure to note many beds and borders
rilled with annuals that were bright-looking, and
as a whole very effective ; and being placed iu the
kitchen gardeu, they gave colour and brightness
where these are usually lacking. 'A loug bank of
Hydrangea Horteusia in flower under the shade of
some tall, deciduous trees, was a pretty feature.
Whether it was the soil, the shade, or proximity to
the sea, the flowers were of a blue tint, without, as
far as could be seen, a single truss of the usual
pink colour. The effect by the failing evening
light haze was remarkable. II'. Swan, Exmouth,

The Rosary.

• — _ —

PRUNING ROSEs.

As the preseut month draws to its clo3e, the
thoughts of the Rose-grower will be fixed on til I
pruning of his stock of plants. Twenty years ago
it was the practice to get all of the hybrid per-
petuals, Bourbons, and Gallieas pruned by the end
of this month, and the Teas and Noisette-; a mouth
later ; but experience has shown that this is too
early, if we are to avoid, as far as possible, the
lamentable effects that follow hard frosts, if these
fall late in the spring, which have beeu so common
the past few years, 1 have no hesitation in saying
I hat quite half of our Roses are pruned too early,
even now.

Then, again, so few of our amateur friends seem
to realise why we prune Roses and other flowering
shrubs, and so they go on what I may, perhaps,
style a rule-of-thumb system, and prune each Rose,
uo matter the variety or class to which it belongs,
upon the same lines. Such methods caunot result
in good effect, aud it would be almost as well if the
knife were kept from the plants entirely.

We pruue Roses with the sole object of diverting
the energy of the plants into the more useful wood,

February 25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

117

ami it is obvious that this is not the same in all of
the several classes of Roses, to say nothing of the
widely differing characteristics of varieties in any
given class. Let me take as an example the
extremes from a few of the principal classes, in
which the varieties first named are of exceptional
vigour, while the second example is of very mode-
rate growth. Hybrid perpetuals, Madame Gabrielle
Luizet and Horace Vernet ; Teas and Noisettes,
Reve d'Or and Ma Capucine ; Bourbons, Mrs.
Paul and Souvenir de la Malmaisou ; Polyanthus,
Crimson Rambler and Perle d'Or ; Hybrid Teas,
Gloire Lyonuaise and Lady Mary Fitzwillium ; and
many more such instances might be given.

There is only one rule that can be followed with
any degree of safety : and that is, to leave as many
as possible of the healthy long shoots of the pre-
vious year upon the very vigorous growers ; and
limit the number of buds upon those of medium
or weak growth, according to the strength of the
variety. lu all cases, weakly and immatured wood
cau be removed to advantage ; also any that is the
least affected by frost, cutting back to a thoroughly
sound eye.

A little observation will show that all of our
Roses and Briars depend to a very great extent
upou new growths from their base for acoutiuuancr
of vigorous health. As time goes ou, the upper-

LOURYA CAMPANULATA.

This is a Cochin-China plant, described by the
late Prof. Baillon.* It was exhibited at the last
meeting of the Royal Hort. Soc. , and as will be seen
(figs. 4li, 47), has much of the general appearance of
an Aspidistra, but the inflorescence is more elon-
gated. The perianth resembles that of the Lily of
the Valley, but has a purple blotch at the base.
The structure of the flower, as described by Baillon ,
is very curious, and shows that the plant must be
placed among the Pel iosan these, near to Ophio
pogou. The dense raceme of flowers is followed by
a cluster of bright blue hemes, each oblong, ovate,
about 1 inch in length, by § inch in breadth.
While the plant will serve the same purposes as the
Aspidistra, it will be seen that the flowers, and
especially the fruit, render it still more attractive.

Alpine Garden,

» —

NEW AND RARE PLANTS FOR ALPINE

HARDENS AND ROCKERIES.

{Continued from i<. tno.)

Ranunculia Sommieri, N. Alboff (in Bulletin

ill i'licrbitr BoUsier, vol, i., p. 245), was found by

Albeit in the mount ai us of Abchasia iu 1S92. A well-

l-'i'.. 4(i. - i,i>i ia.\ CAMFANI Lin.

most shoots become exhausted, and gradually decay.
Now these shoots cannot be of much use in future,
and especially in the case of climbing and extremely
vigorous varieties ; therefore an experienced
primer will remove them as soon as deterioration is
remarked, which enables the younger and more
healthy growth to find space aud advance. These
points, and the cutting-back to well-matured eyes,
are the essential matters iu pruning Roses; and if
they are borne in mind, and the knifeman takes
counsel of common-sense, few primers will go
wroug.

To give full instructions would occupy too much
space, seeing that the characteristics of numerous
varieties would need to be noted. He must also
bear iu mind that Roses are or should be grown for
the embellishment of the garden, and he should
leave far more of the ripe wood than if the object
be the growing of a few blooms of high quality
for exhibition. Among vigorous-growiug Roses,
few produce blooms upou their longer shoots iu the
current season — these come the following year ; and
nearly every well-matured eyo will produce lateral
growths, which seldom fail to carry good blossoms.
A. Piper.

tufted plant, with rather large and heavy leaves
cut into three, and large yellow (bright yellow)
flowers. It requires sun and a well-dressed soil in
the rockery, and flowers from May till July.

Rudbeckia maxima, Nuttall, from North America,

is one of the best but rarest of herbaceous plants.
The foliage is smooth, glaucous, aud leathery; the
flowers are very large, and of a bright yellow
colour. The true R. maxima is the one most to be
recommended of the herbaceous perennials ; it is
very hardy, but is rare in gardens. It grows over
(j feet high, aud requires a good deep soil.

Rudbeckia purpurea nana. —We found, three
years ago, in a bed of Rudbeckia purpurea, in our
nursery, near Lancy, a very dwarf plant of this,
covered with large flowers of the deepest carmine-
red. The seeds of it retained the character of the
variation, so that it may be considered as a variety
of the typo.

Salvia ringens, Sibthorp aud Smith. — This is a
very showy and good plant from Greece, growing in

Bull. Soc. Linn., Talis, N<». 93, p. 7i:i ; Carriere In Revue
Unfit*, ,1,', 1S89, p, 129; anil Ji. ]Juis, in llcvue Hortiwle, 1894,

1'. 84, ' ■. i . i ■!.

the mountains between 3.300 and 4000 feet altitude.
The stems exceed 2 feet in height, and bear large,
ashy-grey-green three-lobate leaves, and very large,
sky-blue, beautiful flowers, which are, if not so
bright and showy as those of the Salvia patens, the
best of all the perennial kinds. The plant is a very
good and useful addition to garden plants, especially
for rockeries and sunny and dry places.

Samolus ,; /,■ »<, Persoou, from New Zealand,
is a very small, low-growing plant, whioh has no
analogy with the European kinds of Samolus. The
stems are creeping, lying on the soil, and the
leaves, small, of a dark and brownish-green, are
generally joined in small rosettes, from which start
other stems, just as in the Saxifraga sarmentosa or
Audiosace sarmentosa. The flowers are white, of
middle-size, and very numerous. It requires a
damp, but partly sunny situation iu the rockery.

Sanicula marylandica, Linmetis, has a pretty
foliage, and is quite different from our European
species; it is worth cultivation as one of the best
kinds for woods and shady pla

Fig. 47. lourya ' imi'am lata.
Showing Inflorescence, (Real size.)

Saponaria glutinosa, Marschall v. Biebersteiu,

from Oriental and Mediterranean regions, is a plant,
of which the bright carmine-red flowers form a good
decoration for rockeries, where they open from .1 uly
to September.

Saponaria pulvinari*, Boissier.- -From the highest
regions of the Auatolian mountains and Lebanon,
is the Silene acaulis of that country, and at first
it might be mistaken for it. Very dwarf, very
csespitose, the plant is good for the rockery; the
leaves are small aud numerous, joined in rosettes
like those of theSaxatile alpiue plauts ; the flowers
are very shortly stalked, and the corolla is of the
deepest carmine-eolour. It flowers iu May and
June, and requires a dry and sunny situation in tin
crevices of the rock work.

Saxifriiga corbar'n axis, Timbal, from the Pyre-
nees (Mount Corbicre, &e.), is very pretty, aud
quite distinct from S. gerauioides, to which it is
attached by some authors. The leaves are rouud

118

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February- 2.5, 1899.

in form, three-lobate, and the lobes have three to
live very obtuse teeth. The back of the leaves is
pubescent, glandular, and marked with small pro-
tuberances. The flowers are large and white. It
is rather a delicate kind, and needs a sunny and
dry place, and a crevice of the rockery.

Saxifraga cuneata, Willdenow, was discovered
by Boissier in the rocks of the mountains in Pam-
plona (Navarre), and on the Pefia Redonda by
Renter in Old Castile. It is the most distinct and
rarest of all the Saxifrages of the Dactyloides
group, and is very seldom seen in gardens. I
believe that the garden of M. Boissier, at Val-
leyres-sous-Ranees, in the Canton de Valid, is one
in which it grew many years ago. M. Barbey
Boissier was kind enough to give it to us, so that
we could distribute it. The plant is a large and
very showy one, growing iu bushes, and forming
tall cushions of dark-green, coriaceous, thick
leaves, viscid beneath, and trilobate. The flowers
are white and three-nerved, but not very numerous.
It is a curious and interesting plant, which prefers
to be iu a crevice exposed to the sun, or grown on
in an old wall. H, Correvon, Jardiu J /pin d'Accli-
matation, Geneva, Switzerland,

arket Gardening.

HORSERADISH.

Good Horseradish always commands a ready
and remunerative sale, the current wholesale price
being from 2s. to 2s. 6rf. per dozen sticks. At
these prices, one acre of well-cultivated ground
planted with Horseradish in rows 1 foot apart, and
at 6 inches from plant to plant in the row, would
give gross returns of £726 aud £90" 10s. respec-
tively two years from the time of planting, thus
leaving a good balance on the right side after
cost of manure, double ploughing of the land,
and rent of same, plants, planting, and marketing,
had been deducted. A light, deep, fertile soil is
suitable to the growth of Horseradish of such a
description as would, if only produced in sufficient
quantity to meet the demand, render foreign-grown
stuff unsaleable in English markets. The ground
should be double ploughed in order to loosen it to
the required depth, a good coating of well-decom-
posed manure having been previously laid, after-
wards harrowing, in order to produce a fairly level
surface preparatory to planting. Stretch a line in
the direction in which the rows are desired to
run — say north aud south — the eutire length or
breadth, as the case may be, of the ground to be
planted, commencing at the outside as a matter of
course, and with a light crowbar make holes at
6 inches asunder in the row for the reception of
the individual roots. These should consist of
straight, thin pieces from 9 to 12 inches long, and
prior to being planted, these should be drawn
through a coarse piece of cloth held in the closed
hand, so as to rub off any eyes or buds, which would
otherwise push into growth from the sides of the
main roots, thereby detracting from the size of
the latter. Place one root (small end downwards
in each of the individual holes, drawing a little
soil iuto the holes with the hand at the same time,
until the row is finished, afterwards repeating the
above-mentioned operations until the planting of
the 'piece is completed. The last week in January
and during February is a good period for planting,
weather permitting.

The Hutch-hoe should be run between the rows
of plants a few times during the interval elapsing
between March and September, stirring the soil to
the depth of 1 or 2 inches, as much with a view to
accelerating growth in the Horseradish as in
destroying weeds. H. W. Ward, Rayleigh,
January 21.

The Week's Work.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener, Dropmore, Maidenhead.
Nut*. — The female flowers are now opening their
blossoms, and as some of the bushes may be
deficient iu male catkins, a few well-loaded branches
from wild or cultivated bushes, should be tied up
iu the bushes where pollination is likely to be

deficient ; the pollen from which will, on tine days,
when shaken by hand or by the wind, be dis-
persed in clouds over the bushes. If any pruning
remains to be done, it should be finished of!' forth-
with. Young bushes should have the main-shoots
shortened one-half or one-third of their length ; the
other pruning will consist of the removal of shoots
from the centre of the bushes, and cutting back
over-strong shoots in order to obtain laterals and
removal of suckers.

Cordon-trained Currants and Oooneberries. —
Where clean fruits of White and Red Currants, and
also Gooseberries for dessert are desired, any spare
spaces on walls or fences may be planted with these
fruits, training them vertically with two or three
brandies. These fruits are very useful in provid-
ing late fruits when planted on a north aspect.

Pruning and Training Newly- Planted Trees.
The necessary pruning of trees planted in autumn
or winter, should now be done. If it be left for
another year, a season's growth will be lost to the
formation of the head of the tree. This applies
especially to standard trees of Apples and Pears,
and in a lesser degree to bush or wall-trees. In the
case of the former, the shoots should be cut back to
a good bud pointing in the direction it is desired
the growth shall take, and these will form the
foundation for the future head of the tree. Wherethe
shoots are left too long on newly -planted trees, they
seldom start away with vigour, making little head
way for years. Pyramid and bush -trees should
have the leading growth shortened to four or rive
buds, or to about a third of their length where
fairly strong, and the weaker side-shoots to within
one bud of the previous year's growth. Espaliers
or wall-trained trees of Apples or Pears should have
the central leadiug shoot shortened to about 12 ins. ,
or one bud above where it is desired the next tier
of branches shall be placed. Other leading shoots
must be shortened to three or four buds, and the
remaining ones cut close to one bud. Wall-trees
and others, if planted early, will have settled
sufficiently in their positions to allow of nailing or
tying being done, but it should be done somewhat
loosely, in case any slight further depression may
ensue. If a mulching of half-rotten littery manure
has not already been given the trees, this should be
applied.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W- H. Youno, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bull., Clave Lawn, East Sheen.

Cypript din in insigne. —This species having been at
rest since it flowered, may now be afforded a cleau
or a new pot. It would serve no good purpose
to enumerate varieties, as the same treatment
serves for C. i. Sanderae as for the commoner
varieties, therefore C. insigne includes each and
every form of this especially attractive species.
The pots should be rather more than half tilled
with drainage, aud the following ingredients as
compost should be used, viz., peat two parts, fibrous
loam one part, and moss one part, sprinkling in a
fair amount of finely-broken crocks when re-potting.
Ho not put the whole of the ball in just as it comes
out of the old pot, but pick out the crocks, and as
much of the old soil as possible, so that the ereater
proportion may be fresh and new for the plant to
get re-established iu. C. insigne should occupy a
cool, moist, aud somewhat airy structure, similar
in character to an Odontoglossum-houso, but with
a few degrees higher temperature. After being
re-potted, afford water through a fine rose, and
until the plant has got established apply as much
as will keep the material merely moist. These
remarks are equally applicable to C. villosum, C.
Boxalli, C. purpuratum, C. Charlesworthi, C.
Leeanum, C. Arthuriannm, and many other
related hybrids.

Temperature and Shade. — The iucreasing warmth
of the sun will induce more genial, and indeed call for
more genial, conditions in the warm-houses, aud to
this end the bygrometric state of the air should be
more on a par with the temperature than heretofore,
the latter being permitted to advance gently with
the season. On bright days, those plants which
have thin leaves will need protection from the sun
by means of sheets of tissue-paper, until the proper
blinds be brought into use.

The Potting of Thunias. — These plants, being in a
fit condition to be re-potted, should be shaken out of
the pots, and be divested of the worn-out soil aud
dead roots, and re-planted in a compost consisting
of one part tibry loam, oue part orchid peat, and a

third part of sharp sand, powdery cow-dung, and
sphaguum-moss, finely-broken crocks being incor-
porated therewith in the process of re-potting.
Pots should be used large enough to accommodate
one, three, or more plants, according to fancy, and
these should be about half-filled with crocks. Let
a stake be placed iu the pots when the crocks are
put in, and to this tie the bulbous-stems. A suffi-
cient number of the old roots should be left on the
pieces as will enable the potter to fix the stems in
the compost, covering them and the base of the
new break with the mixture, which, when finished,
should be about £ an inch below the rim of the pot.
\Vheu potted, place them altogether iu a light
position near the roof-glass in the east Indian-
house, and syringe them in fine weather, but afford
no more water for some considerable length of time.
T. Beusoni* does not show signs of activity so
early as the other species, and should therefore be
held over until ready for repotting.

Mossing the Aerides, Angr cecums, Saccolabiums,
Vandas, Jse. — Some members of these genera will
now require to have the decayed sphagnum-moss
and drainage-material replaced with new, a begin-
ning being made with plants whose roots are
beginning to grow anew. The smaller-growing
species, usually accommodated in baskets or pans,
require nothing more than a few crocks as drainage,
and to be surfaced witli living sphagnum-moss ;
but the plants grown in perforated pots and other
large vessels should have the sphagnum-moss and
larger crocks mixed together, always placing the
crocks perpendicularly, and finishing off the surface
with sphagnum moss alone for appearance sake.
Aerides crassifolium, Fieldingi, crispum, odoratum,
aud japonicum thrive in the Cattleya-house, and
A. vandarum in the cool-house. Angrsecums,
excepting A. falcatum, which is an intermediate
house subject, require the warmth of the East Indian-
house, as do also the majority of the Saccolabiums
aud Vandas, excepting those of the tricolor sec-
tion, which require more air and less heat than
is possible to give them in that house. Vanda
ccerulea will uot as yet require attention iu the
matter of surfacing or repotting, it being still at
rest iu a cool airy house. Those plants which rest
ou a large body of sphaguum-moss must be watered
very cautiously for some considerable time yet, or the
sphagnum-moss, and probably the roots, may decay.
In all cases let the surface of the sphaguum be
sprinkled sufficiently often to prevent it becoming
quite dry, and on sunny days let the pots be carefully
sprayed with the syringe, being careful not to allow
water to accumulate in the axils of the leaves.
In the case of Vaudas teres, Hookeriana, and the
hybrid, Miss Agnes Joachim, this precaution is
unnecessary.

Epidi minim riti Hi num. — Plants growing near the
roof ventilators in a cool-house are now beginning
to make new roots, and any that require new root-
ing materials should have them forthwith. The
most suitable are peat and sphaguum-moss in equal
proportions. The amount of water maybe increased
afterwards.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strdonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. LotlO,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Tin Early Peach-house. — The wholesale removal
of superfluous shoots being injurious to the trees,
the disbudding should receive almost daily atten-
tion, gradual removal causing no check to growth
of shoots or of fruits. Iu young aud vigorous trees
excessive disbudding should be avoided, especially
if the fruit-crop is a light one, it tending to over-
grossuess in the shoots. When disbudding is car-
ried out leisurely it is au easy matter to study the
requirements of the tree, aud to select the best bear-
ing shoots of the next year. Peach-trees, when
forced at an early part of the year do uot always
break uniformly, especially such as are planted ou
back walls of lean-to houses, the lower parts of a
tree being some few days in advance of the upper
parts. When this occurs, disbuddiug is facili-
tated if the growths are left on the upper of
the branches, instead of on both sides, always
leaving a shoot to extend from the point, or
immediately beyond the fruits. In a long fruiting
branch, au additional one may be retained, which,
if not required for fruiting, or if uo space be found
for it, may be kept pinched short, that is furnished
with about three leaves. By so doing, the flow of
sap is equalised, and the tree well furnished with
foliage aud shoots. The thinning of the crop of
fruit must proceed along with, or follow closely upon

Fkbruary 2.5, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

119

the disbudding. The best-placed fruits should
always be left for the crop, that is, those which
will obtain the most sunshine, and which can
develop properly without being squeezed out of
shape by contact with the wire trellis, &c. Do not
thin them too severely all at once, as some fruits
may not be perfectly set, and they will fall. When
a fruit has reached hazel-nut size, it is easy to
determine which are surely set, and thinning may
safely be then brought toatinish. Green-fly should be
destroyed by fumigation as soon as detected on the
trees. Afford tepid water in sufficient quantity to
reach to the bottom of the border, when an examina-
tion shows it is needed. Old-established trees
may be afforded liquid-manure, but young trees in
good growth are the better if supplied with water.
Ventilation should be amply yet carefully applied
on bright days, a slight increase in temperature
being allowed weekly. Syringing, too, may be
resumed on trees that have passed out of Hower,
carrying it out once or twice daily in accordance
with the weather.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the DoWAOER Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

(Uoxinias. — A good batch of the tubers should
now be started, choosing those which afford an
indication of a renewal of growth, aud leaving the
dormant ones for succession, if such be required.
Let the whole of the old soil be shaken from the
tubers, then place them in small clean or new pots
that will just hold them, covering the tubers with
a compost consisting of two parts sandy loam, oue
part each of peat and leaf-soil, with a liberal
allowance of silver-sand, and place them in a house
where the temperature is kept at about 60°, afford-
ing water very sparingly until sigus of active growth
are apparent, otherwise rotting of the tubers may
occur. When the roots have reached the sides of
the pots, let the plauts be transferred to the pots
in which they will be flowered, which may be
o inches to 8 inches in diameter, in accordance with
the size of the tubers.

Achimenes, Tydceas, Weigelas. — A portion of the
stock of each of these plants may now be started,
likewise a number of summer-flowering Gesneras.
The Achimenes should be turned out of the pots aud
pans in which they have been wintered, and the tuliers
laid on light soil, iu well-drained pans, about an iuch
apart. The pans should have been tilled to within
an iuch of the rim with loam, peat, aud leaf -soil in
equal proportions, and a good deal of sharp sand ;
aud the tubers should be covered with soil to the
depth of I inch. Place the pans in the stove, and
afford water very sparingly until growth has begun ;
and when the shoots are 2 inches high, lift each
with a little ball of soil attached, aud pot them to
the number of six to eight in 5-inch pets. They
may go into broad, deep pans, or into wire-baskets,
or earthenware hanging receptacles, Tydieas,
Na'gelias, and summer-flowering Gesneras may be
started in the same manner, but in potting-up it
will not be necessary to place many plauts in a pot,
three or four being sufficient in the case of the first
two, whilst Gesneras are best when potted singly.

Zonal Pelargoniums. — Where flue plants are
required for autumn and winter blooming, cuttings
of the varieties should be inserted in well-drained
4 or 5-iuch pots, tilled with sandy-soil, eight to ten
cuttings being placed in a pot, affording water
sparingly till it is seen that the cuttings are making
roots. When well rooted pot them singly in small
pots.

Dracuna* and Codieeums. — When these plants
become "leggy," or when an increase of the stock
of plants is desired, the tops of the stems and leading-
shoots may be made into cuttings, inserting these
in small, yet deep pots, tilled with loam, peat, and
sand iu equal proportions, plunging the pots in a
propagating-case or hotbed-frame. These plants
may also be propagated by ringing, that is, taking
off circles of bark 1 iuch wide from the stem or
shoot, about 5 inches below t lie top, removing all
leaves standing iu the way ; then fasten some wood-
moss round the shoot at this point, aud sprinkle
it daily. When roots appear through the moss the
shoot is ready for removal, and it may then be potted
in a light mixture of loam, peat, leaf-soil, and sand :
and, if possible, the pots should be plunged in a mild
hot-bed, affording water carefully, shifting the
plants when well rooted intD larger pots. Before full
establishment in the pots has taken place, shading
from strong sunshine will be required by both, but
afterwards the Codi:eums should be gradually

accustomed to bear full sunshine, accompanied with
much aerial humidity, only this sort of treatment
bringing out the colours of the leaves fully.

Carinas. — The beautiful varieties of Canna indica
which have been introduced of late years are excel-
lent subjects for the greenhouse and conservatory,
and if the plants are started in batches, a succession
of flowers may be obtained for a considerable por-
tion of the year. Old plants may be divided into
pieces consisting of one or more crowns, and placed
in pots large enough to admit of a little soil being
placed around the roots. A suitable compost for
this potting is loam, leaf-soil and sand. The pots
may then be plunged in a mild bot-bed, or may be
placed in a house where the temperature does not
fall below 55°. If the potting-soil is in a sufficiently
moist condition, very little water will be required
at first. As soon as the roots take possession of the
soil, the plants should be shifted into their flower-
ing pots, using the same kind of soil as before,
witli the addition of one part deoayed mauure.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardenex to Captain Holfokd, Westonbirt,

Tetbury, Gloucester.

If, rbaci mi.< Borders. — The present, if not the best
time to lift, part plant and replant herbaceous
plants is the next best season. A border may be
replanted throughout, having first lifted every
plaut and trenched the ground, or the work may
be carried out piecemeal fashion. In the case of a
partial renovation, if the border was properly
drained, trenched, aud manured when planted,
little will be required besides lifting, parting, and
selecting those portions of the plants to be removed
that ire found at theoutsides of the clumps. When
replanting anything, fresh soil or manure should be
added, according to the needs of each plant. When
planting it is best, I think, to arrange them iu
groups of three triangularly, these, when in flower,
forming effective masses. A good selection of spe-
cies aud varieties will keep up a continuous display of
flowers from early spring till late in the autumn, and
any good nursery list will indicate the best to plant.
Where bulbs are largely planted, the bare places
left after the foliage dies down can be covered by
planting in proximity such creeping plants as Tro
pseolums, Verbenas, Lysimachia nummularis aud
others, Gazanias, &c. Spaces should be left bel « een
the clumps for such annuals as Sweet Peas, Zinnias,
Scabious, Stocks, Salpiglossis, Sweet Sultan, Heli-
chrysum, Linum, Shirley and Iceland Poppies,
Clarkias, Calliopsis, Godetias, Lavatera, Marigolds,
Nicotiana, Clarkias, Amaranthua, Convolvulus,
Tagetes, Dahlias (single, Pompon, and Cactus),
Lobelia cardinalis, Mignonette, &c.

Lawns. — All grassed areas should be swept and
rolled. Banks and other parts of the garden which
the drought of last season may have rendered bare,
should have a top-dressing of tine sifted soil, soot,
wood-ashes, and leaf-mould scattered over the
surface evenly about half-an-inch in thickness,
brushing the dressing into the turf with a birch-
broom. All stones left ou the grass by the sides
of walks should be picked up or swept off previous
to using the mowing-machine, and all uneven edges
of verges well rolled and afterwards lined out anew
and cut true. Push on witli turting work so as to
complete it this mouth.

Cannas. — The resting roots should be cleaned,
placed in trays where slight bottom-heat can be
afforded them, and a top-heat of 5o° ; the rhizomes
being covered with leaf-mould, and water afforded
to settle the soi1. They should not be wetted over-
head till growth has begun. Those kept in pots
through the winter are throwing up shoots, and
these may be parted and potted ; should the need
be to increase them, or if larger plants are required,
the soil may be shaken from the roots, the latter
repotted iu loam, dry cow-manure, and sand, afford-
ing the pots plenty of drainage materials. Let the
pots staud on a bed of coal-ashes, and afford a day-
temperature of 60°.

work, let the lights remain ou the frames as much
as possible, or at the most removing but one of
them, unless the weather is mild. Air in quantities
more or less should be admitted at all times in
bright fine weather, either by tilting-up the frout,
back, or side of the lights, according to the direction
from which the wind comes. Another lot of frames
may be planted, without bottom-heat this time, the
variety being Ashleaf, or one of that type ; and at the
same time, on a warm, sheltered border, some
tubers of this or other early variety may be planted.

Carrot*. — Ou hotbeds, when the plants are large
enough to be handled, thin them out to 2 inches or
rather less distance apart ; leaving the Early Short-
horn type somewhat thickly, and thinning again whin
the roots are large enough for consumption. After
thinning any crop, afford the bed a gentle watering
as soon as the work is finished. Let air lie afforded
in increasing volume as the season advances, and
apply thick coverings at night, iu order to prevent
a check being given, removing this as soou as the
sun reaches the frames.

Celtuce, — Plauts raised in pans or boxes in heat
should be transplanted into either frames or cutting-
boxes, doing this before they get drawn, and grow
them freely, but do not render the plauts tender by
a close and warm treatment. Plants wintered in
the open or in cold frames should be thinned,
transplanting the thinnings, which should be care-
fully lifted, on to a rather firm, rich, warm border.
In the open a. plot of ground should lie set apart,
and prepared for the summer supply, seed being
sown at intervals of a fortnight in shallow drills,
where the plants will remain after thinning them.
Plants are less liable to suffer iu dry weather if not
transplanted, aud the heads are larger and better.
The distance apart at which to leave a crop of Cos
or Cabbage varieties may be 10 to 12 inches.

Rhubarb iu the opeu being now ou the move, may
be sprinkled over with a little litter or other pro-
tecting material. New beds may be prepared aud
planted, breaking up the old roots, and usiug for the
purpose those pieces which have strong bud or
buds. The beds should be made on deep, well-
dunged soil iu a spot convenient for forcing, if thai
method be practised.

Jerusalem Artichokes.- If these roots be nol dug
up, no time should be lost in lifting them. Select
the largest and best-shaped tubers for consumption,
putting them iu a cool spot, whilst those of middling
size may be put aside lor planting. When the soil
is sufficiently dry as to be workable, plaut these
sets at 2£ feet between the lines, and 1 foot apart
in the rows ; although these, as a rule, are lifted
and plauted on the same ground, aud produce heavy
crops for several years, a change of sets and of
grouud should uot be overlooked.

THE APIARY.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Baraet.

Potato* in Hotbed* and Pots. — As the plants
approach the stage when moulding will be called
for, let the soil be tested, and if found lacking in
moisture afford the bed tepid clear water pretty
freely, afterwards moulding up the plauts with soil
of the same temperature as the bed. In doing this

By Expert.

Condition oj Stock. — There will be opportunities
during the present month for the examination of
all stocks iu which there is the least suspiciou of
scarcity of food, and after a season such as that
of 189S, ordinary calculations as to the amount of
stores may be readily upset. The examination
need be little more than a cursory glance at the
upper portion of the combs to see if there be sealed
food iu them, and it should, if possible, be done
only on such days as the bees are flying, so that if
a more thorough overhaul of any stock is found to
be immediately necessary, as mischief may follow.
Wheu food is fouud to be short, a good-sized cake
of soft candy warmed and pressed into a flattish
cone shape, so as to lay on the top of frames
directly over the cluster of bees, should be afforded
forthwith, and the quilts made to fit comfortably
down over it. My plan is to use four slips of wood,
one of which we lay along each edge of the quilts,
and weighted down with a piece of stone or some-
thing heavy. I usually advise no interference with
bees at this season, but the present season is excep-
tional, and the condition of stores in every stock
should be ascertained. It is well also to give an
occasional look at the "packings" to see that all
is dry. If any of the quilts or coverings have
become wet aud mouldy, clean warm ones should
fe substituted. I would warn anyone against
stimulative feeding, for the quieter the bees remain
the better. Instead of removing any of the wraps
or packings considered so necessary iu winter, we
would rather add to them.

120

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[Febkuary 25, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, as u'dl as specimens and plants for
naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Welling-
ton Street, Covent Garden, London. Communications

Shoiijd be WRITTEN ON ONE SIDE ONLY OF THE PAPER,

sent as early im the week as possible, and duly signed by
thi writer. If desired, the signature will not be printed, but
~ke.pt as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under-
take to pay for any contributions, or to return unused com-
mumcations or illustrations, unless by spe* ial arrangement.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
(/aniens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, £c.; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers. — Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

-Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

SATURDAY; Feb.

TUESDAY, Feb.

THURSDAY, March 2 — Linnean Society, Meeting

/Royal Horticultural Society's Com.
\ mittces,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

Feb,

Feb.

-i

WEDNESDAY, M.ut.

SALES.

Roses, Climbers, Iris, Montbretias,

Gloxinias, &c, at Protheroe &

Morris' Rooms.

( Hardy Border Plants, Lily of the

8< VaUey, Carnations, &c., at Pro*

V therof & Morris' Rooms.

C Japanese and English.growu Lilies,
I Palm Seeds, Continental Plants

M Tuberoses
\_ Morris' R(

FRIDAY,

&c, at Protheroe <fe
uoms,

,. n\ Imported and Established Orchids,
mar. J-j at proylfiroe & Morris" Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Ch is wick, London, for
the period February 12-18, 1899. Height above sea-level
:i4 feet.

1899.

1
o

O

u

w

K

a

Temperature of
the Air.

►J

i

<
a

Tempera-
ture OF THE
Soil at 9 a.m.

7,
O

W

E-
<

<
O

u.

w

i

2

■*-■

o

ft]
a>
TS

■s

5

P.
<o

+3

IS

<M

<

A

ft)
ai

<

PS

A i y

A.M.

ft, <
3 K

«

m
m

pq

Q

ft)

in

a

o

ileg.

dog.

deg. deg. ins.

deg.

deg. ties.

deg.

Sun. 12

W.S.W. 45-1

42-1

51-342-S 0-14

45-0

44-844-6

36-8

Mux. 13

W.S.W. 51-8

is ■7.".3-7 44-5 0-15

45-2

44844-8

36'9

Tl'ES. 11

S.S.W.

lii-ii

44- S

50'9'42-0 002

44T.

i.vi i.vi

34-8

Wed. 15

s.s.w.

47-6

45-7

50-8 40-5 (i-31

44' s

15-] 45-3

30-.r.

Tin'. 16

W.S.W.

t2 ."■

a 5 iO ;J3S- a

14-8

I.- r, -,

33-0

I'm. 17

S.E.

43-2

U-950-433-2 ...

42-3

4.-.-1 45-6

27-2

Sat. 18

li.S.E.

40-1

89-9 52-6|37-0| ...

42-0

44-<-i 45-8

2»-5

Means...

45-9

Tot.
44-3 52-0 38-80-6I

44 -0

i
44-845-2

1

320

Rt marks.— The first four days of the week were wet, and on
Friday the wind changed to S.E., and brought fog with it.
Saturday there was also fog, which was very dense at night.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
i Ibscrvations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick. — 40 6D.

Actual Temperatures : —

London.— February 22 (12p.m.): Max. 4S5 ; Min. 37'.
Provinces. — February 22 (12 p.m.): Max. 50°, off Cnpe
Clear ; Min. 42°, Isle of Man.

The fruits mentioned in Prof.
"nut"0" Bailey's last book* are the

American forms of Grapes, the
Mulberry, the Plums and Cherries, the Apples,
the Raspberry, the Blackberry, the Persimmon,
and various small fruits which we need not enu-

,v. Sketch of the Evolution of our Native Fruits
Bailey. (MacmiUau tt Co.)

to I.. II.

merate. The author's plan is t,< i sketch the history
of the attempts to bring the wild plants under
cultivation, gradually to ameliorate the fruits,
and to indicate in what direction and by what
method further progress may be made. He
shows how, up to the present, the development
of new fruits has been more or less accidental.
Growers failed in their attempts in one direc-
tion, but their experiments served to draw
attention to the native species which were then
taken in hand, with such success that the
named varieties of Grapes grown in the States
mount up to over eight hundred.

But the author's greatest satisfaction, he
tells us, is in the record of the men rather than
of the fruits : " The names which are generally
known are those of persons who are distin-
guished in military operations, politics, general
science, or literature ; but persons who have
expended equal talent and effort in other and
more restricted fields of activity may have
wrought as much permanent good to mankind.
The agricultural and industrial status of an
epoch may be of greater importance to the
progress of a people than the political com-
plexion is. It is a question if the habit of
dwelling upon a few very prominent names in a
few fields of human endeavour does not tend to
obscure the really fundamental movements, and
to distort historical perspectives. At all events,
the writer is glad of the opportunity to give
what prominence he may to persons who have
rendered a service to the national welfare in
fields which are little appreciated."

Accordingly, we find in Prof. Bailey's book
a summary history of the doings of certain
pioneers, such as the Dufovks, John Adlum,
who introduced the Catawba Grape ; Nicholas
LoNdwoKTii, who turned it to account ; Ephraim
Bull, who originated the Concord Grape, and
many others not so well known on this side of
the Atlantic.

The early attempts to cultivate the European
Grape failed, because, as is now known, the Vines
were attacked with downy mildew (Peronospora
viticola). The native Grapes are by no means
immune from this pest any more than they are
from the Phylloxera; but while the native
species survive the onslaught, the introduced
strangers fall a ready prey. These facts induced
cultivators to turn to the native species, of
which there are many, and to develop what may
be called a national industry. Similarly, the
European Gooseberry in the States succumbs to
the attacks of mildew, and American pomologists
therefore set to work to improve their native
kinds.

The historical details given in the present
volume as to this development are very interest-
ing to the naturalist, but they will naturally not
appeal so directly to the Grape-growers and
pomologists on this side of the globe.

The progress made in the improvement of the
Blackberry may still make us wonder that our
own resources are not turned to advantage.
Botanists are divided in opinion as to whether
we have two or three or as many hundred
varieties of Rubus, and they expend a great
deal of time, and fill endless papers with
descriptions which are rarely so characteristic
as to be of much use to any but their
authors. Consequently, wide differences of
opinion exist. If all this minute critical study
had been accompanied with an equally minute
study of the fruit and of its potentialities, we
should not have laid ourselves open to the
reproach of neglecting the natural gifts of the
soil. The Americans have acted very differently
with their Cranberries ; we could grow these

also here, as well as our trans-Atlantic brethren,
but for our sl< iwness to adopt anything new.

Prof. Bailey makes mention of several fruits
not known here under their popular names.
Thus the Juneberry is the fruit of the Amelan-
chier Botryapiuin ; the Butfaloberry is yielded
by Shepherdia argentea ; the high-bush Cran-
berry is none other than Viburnum Opulus !
tho fruits of which are, so far as we know, never
used here for culinary purposes ; the Logan-
berry, supposed to be a hybrid between the
Dewberry and a Raspberry ; the Wineberry,
Aretostaphylos alpina ; Thimbleberries, Rubus
species ; Salalberries, Gaultheria Shallon ; Sal-
monberries, Rubus spectabilis ; Crowberries,
Empetrum nigrum ; Huckleberries, Vaccinium
uliginosuni ; Bunchberries, Cornus canadensis ;
Molkaberries, Rubus Chamasmorus.

Curiously enough, but all of a piece with
similar illustrations given in the book, the fruit
of Rubus laciniatus, which is the best of our
European Blackberries, has attracted no atten-
tion in the States.

In this country we tire of the endless lists of
Apples and Pears, and we are not particularly
thankful to those who augment the lists. We
should prefer them to turn their attention
towards the elimination and destruction of
inferior varieties. Professor Bailey evidently
does not shpre this view. " In the first place
we want," says he, "more varieties of every
native fruit now cultivated. . . . This is
because new needs are always arising, and the
fruits are being grown in new regions, and new
varieties are needed to adapt the species to
these wants."

It is obvious that this remark applies with
greater force to the enormous territorial area
of the States, with their widely different con-
ditions, than it does to us, with our restricted
surface and comparatively uniform conditions.
For this reasi >n wo hardly agree to the full with
Professor Bailey's remark : —

"Those persons who are loi iking for the
coming of the perfect, all-round variety, are
behind the time, and are constantly getting fur-
ther behind, for it is more and more impossible
to combine all the varied and contradictory spe-
cific desires of men into one plant form. There
must be a best variety for every particular use
and locality. "

Take our Black Hamburgh Grape, or our
Muscat of Alexandria, as illustrations. Newel-
Grapes come and go, but these remain behind
as the best "all-round varieties." We have not
yet improved upon these for general all-round
purposes. Far be it from us to suggest that we
never shall ; but if we are to progress, it
would seem as if we must break entirely new
ground, and obtain " a greater range of varia-
tion, more divergent, and widely unlike
varieties."

"The actual work of improvement," says
Professor Bailey, in concluding his volume,
"will be done by a few patient souls, whose
love of the work far outruns desire for applause
and for pecuniary reward."

O Mr readers will, we trust, be able to judge
from our remarks what are the general contents
of the book before us, and what is the line of
argument thr< mghout.

To the naturalist and to the student of evolu-
tion the book provides a storehouse of facts, and
an enunciation of principles, which are as
applicable here as they are in the States ; to
the pomologist it furnishes an infinitude of
suggestions, which he will do well to turn to
practical account. The book is well illustrated,
nicely got up, and provided with a good index.

Supplement to the "Gardener; Chronicle." February 26, 1899.

A VIEW IN THE SCALP PASS, DIVIDING THE COUNTIES OF DUBLIN AND WICKLOW. (See p. 121.)

February 25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

121

A View in the Scalp Pass (See Supplement).
— The whole of Wioklow and the adjoining portions
of Dublin County are extremely picturesque, much
of the country being a succession of narrow valleys
and high rooky hills of rather softened contours.
Arboreal and other vegetation, thanks to the
salubrious moist climate and the proximity of the
sea, grows with vigour wherever the soil is of fair
depth, and even on the hills, as at Powerscourt,
very tine timber-trees are to be met with, especially
of Beech. Our supplementary illustration affords a
view, one out of many, which the tourist with an
eye to pleasing combinations of rugged rock and
tangled masses of wild plants, trees, and brush-
wood, could discover in this part of Ireland, but
which are not easy of imitation iu a garden unless
some of the chief conditions are existent. The
illustration was reproduced from a photograph
taken by Miss Armstrong, of Moukstown, Dublin.

Royal Horticultural Society. -The next
Fruit aud Floral meeting of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society will be held on Tuesday, February 28,
in the Drill Hail, James Street, Westminster, from
1 to 4 p. M. At 3 o'clock a lecture on "The Colours
of Insects; their Meaning and Use" (illustrated
by limelight), will be given by Mr. H. L. T.
Blakk.

The Sherwood Cup, 1899.— It having been
represented to the Council of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society that the terms iu which the Sherwood
Cup is ottered for competition on p. 52 ol the
Society's Arrangements, 1899, are not surticieutly
definite, the following additional regulations are
made : —

1. No exhibitor may stage more than 100 dishes

iu all.

2. The 100 (or less) dishes may be divided between

the two meetings iu any proportion the
exhibitor pleases.

3. Special regard will bo given to quality aud to

variety.

4. As with all other exhibits for prizes, all the

exhibits must have been actually grown by
the exhibitor in his own or his employer's
garden. W. Wilks, Secretary.

By order of Council, Feb. 14, 1899.

Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund.— A con-
cert, under the auspices of the Chislehurst Gar-
deners' Mutual Improvement Association, was
held in tho Village Hall, on the 14th iust., iu aid
of the above charity. The concert was very suc-
cessful, as, after paying the expenses, the committee
are enabled to hand over a sum of £17 10,s. to the
Fund.

Proposed Laying of Water-mains in Hyde

PARK. — Many of our readers will be glad to know
that the First Commissioner of Works has refused
permission to the water company to construct a
main under Kensington Gardens or the Hyde Park.
The matter was, as our readers may be aware, made
public iu our issue for Saturday last, at tent ion being
called to the evils that were sure to result from the
carrying out of the project.

Horticultural Club.— The twenty fourth
annual dinner of the Club took place on Tuesday,
the 14th iust., at the Hotel Windsor, Victoria
Street, Westminster. It was in every respect a
most successful one ; for the first time in its
history ladies were invited, and formed about oue-
third of those present. The chair was occupied
by Sir J. D. T. Llewelyn, Bart., M. P., chairman
of the Club, who, after proposing the usual loyal
toasts in happy and appreciative terms, proposed
the " Prosperity of the Club. " He rejoiced greatly
at the step forward which had been made, and he
assured the ladies that their presence was much
appreciated. The toast was responded to by tho
Secretary, who gave an encouraging account of
the financial condition of the Club, aud of the
harmony and good feeliug that existed amongst
the members. Mr. Geo. Bunyard had most
kiudly arranged for a selection of vocal aud instru-

mental music to be given during the eveniug. Mr.
Harry J. Veituii placed a beautiful stand of
flowers of greenhouse hybrid Rhododendrons in
front of the chairman ; and a sumptuous dessert,
consisting of Pine -apples, Crapes, Califoruiau
Easter Beurre Pears, Peaches (from the Cape of
Good Hope), Bananas, etc., was placed upon the
table, owing to the kindness of Messrs. Assbbe,
George Monro, Peter Kay, and M. J. Garcia.
The evening was a most agreeable one, and the
hope was generally expressed that it would not be
very long before the ladies were again invited.

The Fire at the University of Geneva.—
It is a matter of satisfaction to us to be able
to announce that the statement published at
j). Ill, was, in some important particulars, incorrect.
It was based, as was stated at the time, upon one
previously made public in the Semaine Borticole.
The Delessert Herbarium is fortunately intact. It
is the property of the town, not of the University,
is under the direction of M. Briquet, and is con-
tained in a building more than 500 yds. distant from
the University where the tire occurred. The lire
broke out in the left wing of the University, aud
destroyed an apartment in which were some
collections, diagrams, &c, relating to tin- Alpine
Flora belonging to Prof. Chodat. Some loan
collections from foreign herbaria were likewise
destroyed, as well as some physical instruments that
had belonged to I > I ; SauSSURE. We arc deeply
indebted to several (icneva correspondents for
pointing out this error to us. Had one of them
only prevented its commission by communieatiug
trustworthy intelligence, it would have been better
still.

National Chrysanthemum Society.—
Several of your readers, writes Mr. George
GORDON, Kiw, have written to me with reference
to the new regulations of the National Chrysan-
themum Society relating to amateur exhibitors,
which you published in your issue of the 18th inst .,
under the impression that I am a member ol the
executive. As I have but little spare time for
correspondence, I shall be greatly obliged by your
allowing me to state that I occupy no official posi-
tion whatever iu connection with the Society.

Ruinous Railway Rates. — In connection
with the proposed amalgamation of the South-
Eastern and the London, Chatham, & Dover
Railways, there is considerable correspondence in
the daily press. Mr. A. A\ ERS, uurseryman, of
Swanley, stated in the Daily Mall for Monday last,
that he had just received a small case of bulbs from
Haarlem, Holland. The carriage from that place
to London was 2s. Id. The Loudon, Chatham, &
Dover Railway conveyed the case from Loudon to
Farningham Road station, aud their charge was
6s. The fruit growers of Kent should look to it,
that in any proposed alteration in the railway
services through the county, their interests be not
more prejudiced than at present.

DENDROBIUM NOBILE.— The suitability of many
Orchids for cultivation iu large towns is again
shown by a photograph from Mr. R. ROBERTSON,
gardener to H. F. Smith, Esq., in the Regeut's
Park district. It has been grown from a very
small piece, and last year flowered for the first
time. It is now a strong specimen, bearing 181
fine blooms.

Report of the Michigan Board of Agri
CULTURE. We have received a volume containing
the thirty-sixth annual report of the secretary of
the State Board of Agriculture of Michigan, and
the tenth annual report of the Experiment Station
from July 1, 1890, to June 30, 1S97. We not,', as
forming Bulletin, No. 139, Veterinary Department,
of special interest, a paper by Mr. C. E. Marshall
on "Bacteria," what they are, what they do,
and how they are cultivated. This is of con-
siderable value, giving, as it does, iu a compara-
tively small space, a clear and comprehensive
account of an important subject, the literature of

which is not only very voluminous, but not easily
accessible. The paper is accompanied by a glossary
and numerous illustrations, aud explains some of
the bacteriological pheuomeua of daily life (the
tainting of meat, rising of yeast, and so on), thus
briuging the subject within the comprehension of tho
ordinary reader, who is still apt to consider bac-
teria as in themselves rare and isolated diseases,
rather than inevitable factors in everyday life.
The volume contains various other papers on
agricultural subjects.

The "Shading" Season.— At no distant
date the need for shading material will again be
felt by Orchid cultivators, choice fruit growers,
and gardeners generally. The reminder, issued by
Messrs. Wood & Son, is in the form of a book
that encloses samples of a wonderful variety of
materials for the temporary shading of plants and
houses, aud also for protecting choice specimens
from the attack of wasps, &c. The particular
material recommended for the latter purpose is
known as the "Hexagon" shading, aud that for
shading Orchid-houses, ,ve., as "Rot-proof Scrim,"
which has been chemically treated to make it
unusually durable. Auother specialty, and a good
material for general purposes is "A. White." All
of these aud others are obtainable in almost any
dogree of streugth.

TRIPLE-SPATHED ARUM.— We very frequently
receive specimens of Richardia africana with a
double spat lie. Triple spathes are less frequent.
For a ilrawing and a photograph of such a one wo
an- indebted to Mr. DlNWOODIE, of the Buckland
Gardens, Bwlch, Breconshire. Mr. Dinwoodie is
endeavouring to perpetuate the peculiarity.

Fruit from the Cape.— The Norman, one of
the Union line ol steamers, has arrived from the
Cape with 010 boxes of 1'caches, 202 boxes of Pear ,
10") boxes of Plums, and 54 boxes of Nectarines.
The whole arrived in excellent condition, and the
merchants have expressed great approval of tho
manner in which the Company has carried the fruit
— the cool -chamber arrangements appearing to be
perfect, and it is hoped that the shortly expected
consignment of Grapes will turn out as well. For
the large freestone Peaches good prices were
obtained, and were sold iu the West End shops at
Is. to Is. 0</. each. Clingstone fruit did not make
so good a market, selling at prices ranging upwards
from 4(7. each. Plums, Nectarines, and Pears, nut
a sale at our last reported prices. By the way, it
was to be noted that the matters of picking and
packing had been properly attended to, the iaitial
steps certainly adding largely to the final excellent
result.

The Nutritive Value of Mushrooms.—
The chemical composition and nutritive value of
Mushrooms aud fungi have besu recently discussed
by L. B. Mendel, in the American Journal oj
Physiology, vide American Gardening, January 21.
About a dozen species were examined, and in most
cases it was found that water amounted to 70 to
94 per cent. Agaricus campestris, the common
meadow Mushroom, is practically nine-tenths
water ; and the Morel Morehella esculenta, has
about the same amount. The digestible protein
in all the specimens was found to be compa-
ratively small, so that taking this fact and tin-
great quantity of water, the Mushrooms themselves
appear to have but little food-value — iu fact, about
as much as Carrots, Cabbage, and similar vege-
tables. On this side of the Atlantic we have
been taught the contrary, aud some of our
English fungi have been favourably contrasted with
beef -steak.

Seasoning Wood by Electricity.— A model
plant for seasouiug wood by meaus of electricity is
now iu operation at Messrs. Johnson and Phillips's
electrical works near Charlton Junction, the system
used being the Nodou-Bretonneau. The timber to
be seasoned is placed in a large tank and immersed,
all but au inch or two, iu a solution containing

122

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 25, 1899.

10 per cent, of borax, 5 of rosin, aud ■{ of carbonate
of soda. The lead plate upon which it rests is
connected to the positive pole of a dynamo, aud the
negative pole beiug attached to a similar plate
arranged on its upper surface so as to give good
electrical contact, the circuit is completed through
the wood. Under the influence of the current the
sap appears to rise to the surface of the bath, while
the aseptic borax and rosin solution takes its place
in the pores of the wood. This part of the process
requires from rive to eight hours for its completion,
and then the wood is removed and dried either by
artificial or natural means. In the latter case a
fortnight's exposure in summer weather is said to
render it as well seasoned as storage in the usual
way for five years. The current employed has a
potential of 110 volts, the consumption of energy
being about one kilowatt per hour for each cubic
metre of timber, and the greener the wood the
better, because its electrical resistance is less. The
liquid in the bath is kept at a temperature of from
90' to 100° F. Times.

Prospects of the Wheat Crop in United

STATES. — The daily reports concerning atmospheric
conditions in America must have prepared the
reader for any kind of adversity in either the
auimal or vegetable kingdom — that concerning the
latter only finds record here ; and by a report
received on Tuesday from New York we learn that
great damage to crops is perceptible. The great
Wheat-fields of the west and north-west have
especially suffered from frost, and the crops are
estimated to have been so much affected, that their
value is calculated to have been decreased from 10
to 50 per cent. The reports from Southern States
arc- varied in character, but they indicate disaster
to varying exteuts, according to conditions of
vegetation. At one southern station 72° was
recorded before the storm-clouds gathered; on
Monday last, the record was 6" above zero !

The Veitch Memorial Fund.— At a meet-
ing of the trustees held on the 17th inst., it was
resolved to place a Medal and prize of £5 at the
disposal of the Trowbridge Horticultural Society ;
and a Medal and prize of £5 at the disposal of the
Borough of Hauley Floricultural Fete, to be com-
peted for at their respective forthcoming annual
shows. It was also resolved to place the sum of
£'20 at the disposal of the Lindley Library trustees.

Society for the Protection of Birds.—
We have received notice that the auuual general
meeting of the above society will take place on
Tuesday, February 28, 1899, at the Westminster
l'alace Hotel, Victoria Street, London, S.W. The
chair will be taken at 3 p.m. by Sir Edward Grey,
But., M.P. The president is her Grace the
Duchess of Portland ; Mrs. L. Lemon is hou. sec. ;
aud the society's offices are at 3, Hanover Square,
London, W.

FLOWER in SEASON.— We have received a
bouquet of deliciously scented Freesias from Mr.
Geo. Carpenter, West Hall Gardens, Byfleet.
Baing the product from two 6-inch pots, they are
exceedingly good, and represent as successful
cultivation as is possible. Foliage aud flowers alike
ara strong to a degree.

Presentation. — Mr. G. Harris, who is
vacating the charge of the gardens at Alnwick
Castle, aud will become Couuty Council instructor
m horticulture for the counties of Northumberland,
Cumberland, and Durham, was on Saturday, ISth,
presented with a handsome barometer, furnished
with a suitable inscription, the presentation being
made by Mr. J. Stewart, principal foreman in the
gardens at Alnwick Castle, as a token of the esteem
in which he was held by the men employed in the
gardens.

Publications Received.- -Report on the Calm
Agricultural Demonstrations, Wilts County Council :
Agricultural Committee, Section I., Quemerford
Station ; Section II., Lickhill Station.— Le Potager
d'uii Curieuz, par MM.1A. Paillieu.x & D. Bois

(Paris), third edition. — Bolctim da Sociedade Brote-
riana, xv., including supplements relating to the
Flora of Portugal and the Botanic Garden of the
University of Coimbra for the year 1S97-9S. — Jev-
removac Jardin Botaniqne du Royainne </< Scrim "
Belgrade, ix. Aunee. — • Wood and Garden, by
Gertrude Jekyll (Longmans).

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Cattleya Tri an. hi var. Hofgartver Wondel, Garten
Flora, t. 145S, a very highly-coloured form, the front lobe of
the lip in particular being of a rich, rosy purple.

Cycnoches chlorochilon, Rsviie de I'Hcrtioulture Beige,
February.

CrPELLA Herberti, Garden, January 14.

IIerbertia pulchella, Garden, January 14.

Ph acedia CAMi-ANULARiA, Garden, January 21.

Phygelius capensis. Revue del' Horticulture Beige, February.

PrUNUS MVROBALANA BOSEO-PLESA, Jin''. SOC. TOSC, d'l.hii-

cult., t. ix., 1898.

Rose Antoine Rivoire, Garden, January 28 : a hybrid Tea,
raised between Lady Mary Fitzwilliam and Dr. Grill.

Scilla campanulata, white and rose-coloured varieties,
Montteur de V Horticulture, January 10.

Notices of Books.

Die Baume und Straucher des Waldes, Von
Gustav Hempel and Karl Wilhelm : II. Abthei-
lung, Die Luubholzer ; Holzel, Vienna.
This is a treatise devoted to European forest trees
and shrubs. It contains full descriptions in ( lerman
of the several trees, their structure, geographical
uses, &c. It is copiously illustrated with wood-
cuts, aud lias thirty-six quarto coloured plates,
illustrative of catkin-bearing trees. Even to those
who do not read (lerman, this work will be found
very useful by reason of the excellent illustrations.

The Gooseberry Growers' Register.
(Biugley: Edward Fould.)

This is a little book which growers of Goose-
berries for exhibition must needs have. It is one
that statisticiaus and physiologists will find service-
able none the less so that the facts recorded are
set down without the least bias towards this or
that theory, and, indeed, so far as we can judge
without auy knowledge of the grave questions
relating to origin, development, or evolution on
which these pages are capable of throwing light.
It is, iu fact, a record of Gooseberry-shows held at
various taverns, principally in the north of England,
and the only question entertained is as to the
number of "dwts." and "grs." that particular
berries weigh. This retention of pennyweights and
grains is itself a curious circumstance, convenient
for Gooseberry . growers in general, but rather
troublesome to foreigners and others who desire to
get information out of the records.

The Gooseberries are classified into red, yellow,
green, and white varieties. Size, or rather weight,
is in general the only criterion considered, though,
iu one cast-, we do linil the not wholly unimportant
quality of flavour taken iuto consideration. Thus,
at the "Green Man" inn, Harborue, Leveller,
Dan's Mistake, Blucher, and Transparent are noted
as having been exhibited, aud, presumably, pre-
miated for flavour. Iu some cases we rind that the
competition is open to all "honest " growers ! We
hope that this qualification applies to all growers of
this useful fruit. Among the heaviest berries
during the last eighty-nine years are London, a
berry of which in 1852 weighed 37 dwts. 7 grains,
I lie heaviest berry yet recorded. Numerous entries
show that this variety has yielded berries of
30 dwts. aud upwards on several occasions, but it
has never exceeded the weight recorded in 1852.
We do not understand whether the tables given on
p. 78 apply to one year, 1S98, or to an average of
many years, but it is evident that Blucher (red),
Diadem (green), Leveller (yellow), Surprise (green),
Transparent (white), are among the heaviest. The
weights of the winning sorts have varied from a
minimum of 18 dwts. 22 grains iu the case of

Sportsman in 1809, to a maximum of 37 dwts.
7 grains in the case of Loudon in 1852.

A poetical (?) effusion appended to the volume
tells us that —

" This London of renown was that famous Hunst-
man's sou
Who was raised iu a Cheshire village, near the

Maypole in Acton ;
While in bloom he was but small, yet still so fast

he grew
That everyone admired him, for his equals are
but few."
The epic goes on to describe the consternation of
" Lion" at the success of London, his defiance, the
challenge, the intervention of otlier combatants ;
but the opinion is that —

" The Bobby is the favourite, both in village aud in
town."

though, so far as we can make out, Bobby lias
never weighed more than 34 dwts. 20 grains.

A little more care in editing future editions will
be desirable, and the importance of the statistical
details is such that we trust the Gooseberry
Growers' Register may have a long and successful
career.

APPLE SMART'S PRINCE ARTHUR.

Ox the occasion of the meeting of the Koyal
Horticultural Society's committees on Tuesday,
January 31 last, W. Boupell, Esq., Streatham,
exhibited this remarkable-looking variety (fig. 49).
It is an excellent winter culinary fruit, which re-
mains in good condition under proper treatment till
March. The skin is orange-coloured, with broken
streaks of crimson, and some amount of green.
The eye is rather opeu, with erect convergent seg-
ments set in au angular depression ; the stalk is
short, inserted to its full length in a cavity. The
flesh is tinged with yellow, firm, juicy, aud of good
flavour. It is a variety much growu about
Maidstone.

Home Correspondence.

BLOOM AT ARD CAIRN, CORK.— The following
Daffodils were, on February 19, iu full bloom out-
of-doors. The weather is charming, warm as in
April, and insect life abounds. The Daffodils
Audrocles, Cervantesii, Countess of Annesley,
Claddagh (a seedling from N. maximus), Golden
Spur, Henry Irviug, Ard-lligh, King Umberto,
Tuscan Bonnet, Butter-cup, Princeps, Saragossa,
North Star, Early Bird, Maximus longevireus,
Miuimus minor, Cyclamineus, and Telamonius
plenus. Many of the white Trumpets are in bud ;
Polyantha varieties, six or seven, including Soleil
d'Or and Gloriosa. Of Anemones, there are St.
Brigid, fulgens, aud Beauty of Cauues. The Lenten
Boses are very beautiful ; Primus Pissardi, as great
trees, white as if covered with snow-flakes ; Pyrus
japoniea, Azara microphylla, Snowdrops of all
sorts, Glory of the Snow ; aud sheets of yellow
colour from the Crocuses. The perfume from the
Azara microphylla is as penetrating as that of
Vanilla. Tulips, of which a large collection of late
varieties has been formed, are breaking through
the soil, aud look vigorous and full of promise. B. H.

CHRYSANTHEMUM PRINCESS BLANCHE.— The
beautiful white flowers of this valuable decorative
variety may be had in good condition until the
middle of February. The plant is naturally dwarf,
and lias a bushy habit, rarely exceediug 2 feet iu
height. I enclose several flowers for your inspection.
H. A'., Farlmjdon, Feb. 21.

BEGONIA !■: MOONLIGHT, AND OTHERS. — I
should much like to find B. Moonlight, which was
grown so successfully at Chiswick some years ago.
The variety was raised by the late Col. Clarke, who
gave us some other good hybrids, including Wel-
toniensis. It is about thirty years ago that I first
knew this, and grew it successfully in Sussex, and
at that time it was thought a3 much of as Gloire de
Lorraine is at preseut. From my earliest associa-
tions with plant-growing, Begonias were always
great favourites ; and under the instructions of the
late Mr. G. Parsons I commenced to hybridise them,

February 25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

123

my first attempt being with B. insignis ami B.
boliviensis. The result was a good hatch of plants,
which showed distinctly that a cross had been
effected ; but unfortunately, the stock at the
nursery was sold off, and the best varieties were
lost. B. insignis is by no means to be despised.
At one time 1 had a house full at Chiswick, loaded
with bloom ; they were in 8-inch pots, and were
much admired. The remarkable strides made in
the improvement of the tuberous-rooted Begouias has
somewhat overshadowed the older winter-flowering
species ; yet they are well worthy of attention,
and if I had the opportunity, I should prefer to
work on these rather than on auy other class of
plants. At Chiswick, I was fairly successful, both
in culture and hybridisation ; but those which
received First-class Certificates in 1880 have long
been surpassed, though I believe the one named
after myself would fiud favour even now. It was

WHATCONSTITUTESODONTOGLOSSUM WILCKE-
ANUM? — In an article under the above title in
your issue of February II, p. 82, Mr. Crawshay
introduces some remarks respecting myself, which
to say the least, are in bad taste, without having
the merit of being strictly true. He carefully
quotes certain remarks of mine respecting the
identity of the so-called Odontoglossum crispum
Golden Queen, and states, " He now tardily admits,
though in a manner as if he had never doubted the
facts, which have beeu stated by the writer (Mr. C. )
both in and out of print for years past, and strongly
contested by Mr. Rolfe .... it has taken him
nearly two years to advance," &c. Had not Mr.
Crawshay quoted the actual page, I should have
thought he had overlooked my remark — " it is
quite possible that it is a form of the variable 0. x
Wilckeanum, in which the shape of O. crispum
is ueirly reproduced. Other instances could Ijl-

i

\

x

%

*

V

h

1

I

\

\

i§

\

i

\

HI

Fig. 49. — apple, smart's prinok uithur. (sF.t; p. 122.)
(Shown by Mr. Eonpell ;il t In- Meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society , Jaimarj 31, 1899.)

•f hybrid origin, had medium-sized, pink flowers,
and small foliage — quite distinct from the ordinary
type of the tuberous Begonia seeu at the present
time. .1. Hemdey, Edmonton.

pycnostachys URTICIFOLIA.— Observing on

p. 82 ("Kew Notes"), of a recent issue, the
mention of this plant, it may be interesting to
kuow that plants of Pycnostachys have recently
flowered here. Our plants have been fairly suc-
cessfully grown in pots. I have no doubt but that
the plants are better adapted for planting-out. and
should be employed for that purpose. They seem to
have a tendency to become too tall and loose for
pot- work. It is certainly a subject well worthy
of general cultivation, and should have an excel-
lent future when once introduced into our
gardens. I am informed by Mr. J. Hughes that
these plants were obtained from seed brought to
Wentworth by the Hon. H. Fitzwilliam from
Africa, the precise locality and date I am not able
to state. P. Bolt, Wentworth Gardens,

adduced among hybrids.'' This quite disposes of
this part of his remarks. And with respect to the
so-called 0. crispum flaveolum, which called forth
Mr. Crawshay 's remarks, he may refer to 1893, and
he will tiud me saying : "0. crispum flaveolum . . .
This is very near 0. Wilckeanum elegans and O. x
\V. sulphureum, having lougish segments of prim-
rose colour, with a few spots ou the sepals only,
and the characteristic crest " (Orck. Si v., i., p. 204).
On the very uext page Mr. Crawshay may rind my
summary of the characters of 0. X Wilckeanum (it
had taken me over four pages to discuss the various
so-called species referred to it), as follows — "Con-
sidering the present hybrid as a whole, it is remark-
able what a wide range of variation it presents.
Just as in the case of 0. x glorioso-crispum, there
appears to be almost every possible combination of
the characters of the two parent species. The
robust habit, branched inflorescence, and more
elongated segments of 0. luteo-pnrpureum may he
combined with the white ground of 0. crispum, and
with the heavy spotting of the former, or almost

without spots, as in so many forms of the latter. 0
the compact habit of 0. crispum may be coupled with
the yellow colour and brown blotches of the other
parent ; while all kinds of intermediate forms
occur, both in shape and colour. It is now
quite certain that this hybrid is more polymorphic
aud polychromic than is generally supposed." These
remarks were not passed upon anything that Mr.
Crawshay had said, and will enable anyone to judge
of the aocuraay or otherwise of the picture which he
draws of Mr. Rolfe strongly contesting somethiug
which he has stated in and out of print for years
past. Mr. Crawshay in 1S97 described "true O.
crispum" as " spotless," and remarked "as soon as
the yellow usurps more than the disc of the lip, and
as soon as spots and marks appear, then I consider
that there is evidence of hybridity. No oue cau
tell the myriads of cross-fertilisations that have
taken place. This has been proceeding till oue can
fancy there is not a true crispum left." My reply
to this was: — "Here I cannot agree with Mr.
Crawshay, for there are both yellow and spotted
forms iu which I cannot detect the slightest devia-
tion from the typical 0. crispum in its essential
characters, and especially in the details of the
crest.'' The point may be debateable, but I
think Mr. Crawshay lays too much stress on
hybridisation, and not enough ou variation pure and
simple. Your readers can now judge whether Mr.
Crawshay was justified in his remarks about naming
plants, that "if the botanist or expert does in this
way, we are wise in doing all we can to correctly
name them without their aid," which, after all that
I have done to clear up the origin of these plants,
and taken iu connection with some of his other
observations, I consider to be both personal and
offensive. I am quite as anxious as Mr. Crawshay
to see these plants extricated from the confusion
iuto which they have fallen, but have no desire to
dogmatise on the matter. A few well-chosen expe-
riments would probably throw some light on the
question whether secondary hybrids do occur iu
this group, and Mr. Crawshay, who has the plants,
might very well try the effect of crossing 0. x
Wilckeanum back on to one or the other of its
parents, or of crossing it with 0. x Audersonia-
num or O. x Coradinei, and let us know the result,
It. A. Rolfe.

traveller's ivy.— ,; J. C. B." says that Clematis
vitalba is so called iu all, or nearly all, ancient
botanical works. Will he kiudly mention oni ."
Janu s Britten.

WELL-CULTIVATED CALANTHES. I cnclne a

photograph of our annual group of Calanthes.
They are mostly C. Veitchi, but include a few plants
of ( .'. vestita rubro-oculata and C. v. lutea. The
individual spikes of C. Veitchi are good, the best
having reached a height of 4 feet Ij inches, with
from thirty-seven to forty two expanded blooms on
each at one time, and with several buds to open.
Taking the whole collection, the average number
of expanded blooms would be about thirty-
three. I fiud the strongest bulbs do not pro-
duce the finest blooms, either in colour or size.
The plants of 0. vestita rubro oculata aud
v. lutea have been strong iu proportion, and
make a fine contrast amongst the carmine colour
of C. Veitchi. This district has been particularly
free from fogs this winter, and the Calanthes
have been iu bloom from the middle of October to
the third week in January. Jmin < Machar, Gr.,
Branwoods, Great Baddow, Ghelmnford. [The
photograph represents very successfully-cultivated
plants, and well illustrates the decorative value of
these charming winter-flowering Orchids. Ed.]

MISLETO AND PHORMIUM TENAX.— At Bishop's
Teigntou recently, I uoticed in a garden some
large bunches of Misleto, green and vigorous, ou
several Apple-trees ; and immediately beneath one
of the trees a fine plant of Phormium tenax, which
was not afforded any protection in the winter. The
longest leaves were about 5 feet, and the plant was
as vigorous-looking as possible. W. s'.

EULALIA JAPONICA VARIEGATA, ETC.— A fine
specimen of this interesting plaul may be seen at
the Moor Gardens, Bishop's reiguton. It is growing
alone on the lawn, near to beds of shrubs. The
plant is just 12 feet through, and almost circular iu
outline. There were many plumes still upon it,
oue of which I forward. I saw it during the pre
sent month, and the flowers aud leaves had turned
yellowish-brown. Even then it was conspicuous
among other occupants of the beds and borders.

124

THE GA R DE NE RS' CHRONICLE.

[February 25, 1809.

A very largo specimen of Chimonanthus fragrans
was full of flower, the individual blooms were
small, but the number of them and their fragrance
was very grateful. W. Swan,

CLEANSING TOMATO SEEDS. — I have read with
interest the several notes upon this subject, and
would explain my own method. I first cut the
fruit in half, and with the haft of a budding-knife
scoop out the seeds and pulp into a pan. The fol-
lowing day I obtain a very tine-meshed sieve, and
sift some silver-sand, so that it will pass through it
readily. I then put the seeds and pulp into the
sieve, and cover it with sand, afterwards gently
working the seeds and sand together with the
bauds. The sieve is next immersed in a pan or tub
of water, and the contents are stirred well. The
sand sinks, leaving the seed partially cleaned.
This process is repeated two or three times, and
then with a tub of fresh water the cleaning opera-
tion can be finished by stirring the seeds under
water. As they settle on the bottom, gradually
draw the sieve aside, and the skins which surround
the seeds while in the pulp, and all unmatured
seeds, will pass out. This can be repeated. Then
tilt the sieve slightly in the open air, and when
partially dried, spread out the seeds on trays to
finish off. I have had good crops of Tomatos from
seeds thus cleaned, even after keepiug them for
several years. I enclose a sample of seed washed
last July, on which i should like your opinion.
//. Southcott, 2, Cleveland Road, Chichester. [The
seeds are very fresh-looking, and thoroughly cleau.
En ]

CONTINUOUS FLOWERING OF PANCRATIUMS. —
On Feburary 5 of last year you published my letter
on above, p. 91, wherein I stated that I had out
Pancratium-blooms on 360 consecutive days, from
February 1, 1897, to February 1, 1898, inclusive.
This morning, February 1, they have again com-
pleted another 365 days, without a break of a single
day, making in all 731 consecutive days, and they
are throwing up fresh spikes rapidly. I have only
about 100 large pots with several bulbs in
each. Henry Porter, liarljidd Nursery, Freshfield,
Liverpool.

FILMY FERNS IN A COOL FRAME.— At the Moor

Gardens, near Bishop's Teignton, I was recently
shown a capital lot of these Ferns in an ordinary
unheated brick frame. The back wall of the pit
was about 3 feet high, the lights having the usual
slope. The interior had been deepened rather
more than would be necessary for ordinary plants ;
there were specimens of Todea superba, with a
score or more fronds on each plant, many of which
would measure fully 18 inches across. These
plants were in splendid condition, with no sign of
thrip or other insect pests. Trichomanes radi-
caus was equally vigorous. These plants, I was
informed, had been grown under these conditions
for a number of years, and since it has been proved
again and again that lire-heat is detrimental to the
culture of many of the lilmies, it would seem far
wiser to grow them under conditions where moisture
prevails naturally, rather than iu cases or parts of
greenhouses and intermediate-houses where constant
syringing becomes necessary. I remember some
years ago, when visiting Messrs. Birkenhead's
nursery, at Sale, having seen a sunken pit, in which
a quantity of Todeas were growing. There, also,
no artificial heat was used, and during the winter
a few mats was all the covering given. So well
had these Todeas grown, and distributed spores,
that the interior walls was covered with young
plants of one or two years growth. Many Todeas
and other filmy Ferns are crippled, and some lost
altogether, through being subjected to too warm a
temperature. II'. Swan. Exmouth.

American Notes.

CHICORY GROWING.
The cultivation of Chicory in America is not
exactly a new industry nor a new idea, but the
home production still falls considerably short of the
demand. Mr. M. G. Kains, of the Department of
Agriculture, says that the imports of dried roots in
1891 was 1,867,577 lb., and that it increased to
16,930,162 lb. in 1897. There was at the same
time a considerable falling off in the imports of
prepared Chicory, showing that manufacturers have

got in the way of preparing the material here.
Mr. Kains asserts, after investigation of the Chicory-
growing business in America, that we can grow
quite as good an article here as in any other land,
and lie thinks we ought to do it.

Mr. Burbank's "New Cheations."
Mr. Luther Burbauk, of Santa Bosa, California,
comes near to being the best-known horticult urist in
America. His fame rests chiefly on the production
of new varieties of fruits and flowers. He is a
skillful hybridiser, lives iu au exceptionally favour-
able climate, and does work on an incredibly large
scale. His anuouncement for 189!) ha.s just been
issued, under the takiug title of Nnr Creations,

Hybrid Plums.
The most prominence is given this year, as it has
been sometimes before, to new varieties of Plums.
The "leader" is a hybrid bearing the name of
Climax. It is derived from Botau (Prunus triflora)
fecundated with pollen of the Simon Plum (Prunus
Simoni). The fruits which 1 have examined arc
very large, strongly heart-shaped, dark red, firm-
fleshed, free-stone, and of the finest quality. Other
hybrid or cross-bred Plums announced are Sultan
(probably a mixture of Prunus triflora and P.
Simoni), Bartlett (same specific parentage), and
Shiro (said to be a hybrid combining Prunus cerasi-
fera, P. triflora, and P. angustifolia). These are all
very interesting. It now remains for time to test
their value. Mr. Burbank is not the only man in
this country who is workiugupon the hybridisation of
Plums. There are several others, among whom may
be specially mentioned Messrs. T. V. Munson,
Texas ; J. S. Breece, North Carolina ; F. T. Ramsey,
Texas ; Theo. Williams, Nebraska ; C. E. Pennock,
Colorado ; and G. L. Taber, Florida. So many
varieties of hybrid, or supposed hybrid origin, have
lately been introduced to the horticultural public
that I have undertaken a special study of them
under the direction of the Vermont Experiment
Station. I find from forty to fifty named varieties
now known and cultivated to some degree, rmostly
experimentally. .Some of them seem to be of con-
siderable promise. The introduction of these
hybrids marks au important epoch in our pomo-
logy, for up to the present time most of our culti-
vated sorts have been pure-bred seedlings of the
several species grown in this country.

The Simoh Plum.
The Simon Plum, Prunus Simoni, has been the
object of a good deal of comment in this country,
largely of an adverse nature. The quality is very
inferior, at least, in most cases, and the trees are
seldom very productive. Still, the fruit has such
a line appearance that it sells readily from the
fruit-stands to a certain class of customers, such as
eat Ben Davis Apples aud Kieffer Pears. It has
been grown commercially to some exteut iu Cali-
fornia, and I have heard reports of its profitable
cultivation in the Eastern States. The most
singular aud promising fact I have met in connec-
tion with this Plum, however, is its apparent
success as a stock for hybridising. A large number
of Mr. Burbank's best hybrids are strongly marked
with Simon Plum characters, and yet such varieties
are almost uniformly of the highest quality. The
astringent aud mawkish flavour of the Simon Plum
seems to disappear entirely in crossing, and to leave
the Hue solid Mesh and brilliant colour to co-operate
with better flavours from other pareuts.

Gossip.
The American Pomological Society expects to
held its biennial meeting this fall in Philadelphia.
Professor Bailey has just issued a new book. It is
a text book of general agriculture for use iu schools.
Professor Goff has published a second edition of
his attractive little work on Principles of Plant
Vulture. At the time of writiug, the winter meet-
ings of the various state and provincial horticul-
tural societies arc in full swing. Takiug them
altogether, the one most notable feature about
them is the decline iu the excitement over the San

Jose scale. American Gardening, of New York,
which has recently changed management, has also
changed dress aud style somewhat with the begin-
ning of the year, and is offered at a slightly
increased price. There is practically no longer a
"visible supply" of Apples in this country; aud
the fruit is a rarity even on the best furnished
tables. F. A, Wough.

THE DUTHIE PARK, ABERDEEN,
AND THE LATE SHOW THEREIN.

I hap the pleasure of spending a week in the
"granite" city aud neighbourhood at the time of
the Aberdeen Horticultural Society's auuual show
iu August last. I arrived on the show-ground
about 10 r.M. the night preceding the show, and
there saw a "wondrous sight. " A long avenue
adjoining the tents was blocked with vehicles of all
sorts, from a garden wheelbarrow to a railway
dray. On eaoh there was the usual exhibitor's
paraphernalia, and clustering over the top of all
were the exhibitors and their assistants ; these
assistants being sous or daughters, wives or sweet-
hearts, or some " chum " come to lend a hand. It
wns evidently the time chosen by the amateurs for
staging their stuff. By amateurs, in Scotland, we
do not mean the nobility who keep half-a-dozen or
more professional gardeners. These Aberdeen
amateurs are mostly tradesmen, may be granite-
masons, or paper-makers, who do their uiue hours'
work everyday, aud their gardening after 6 o'clock.
Hence, many of them on the night before the show
would rush home, swallow a cuj> of tea aud a
bit of bread-and-butter, and get into the garden
to cut or lift their flowers or vegetables, and
afterwards proceed to the show-ground.

It was au inspiration to move along aud watch
the eager faces and the busy bauds at work. In
oue corner, a man was endeavouring to select the best
half-a-dozen French Marigold blooms, by the aid of
the light of a halfpenny candle held at his side by
a boy. On the grass close by, the finishing touches
were being given to a collection of vegetables by
two meu ou their kuees in a devotional attitude.
A lady was underneath a lamp putting some
annuals into position which had got awry through
I Ic jolting of her conveyance. A friend of my
own started off to find a fountain, which he was
told was " ower there," guiding his steps by the
light of a borrowed carriage lamp ; he stumbled
headlong, lamp, watering-can, and self, right into a
flower-bed, and after that decided to give up hunt-
ing for water till daylight. This almost equals my
own experience at Arbroath station ou the journey
north. I left Glasgow about I o'clock in the after-
noon, and was due at Aberdeen, via the Forth
Bridge, about 9. Having had only a very light lunch
in Glasgow before starting, I hoped to refresh
myself at Dundee ; but there we only stopped a
minute or two. At Arbroath I determined to do
something, aud so jumped out of the train and
asked a porter where the refreshment-bar was.
" Along there," was the laconic answer. I went
along, aud could find none. As I jumped into the
carriage I saw the same porter again, and said to
him, " There's uo refreshment place along there."
"There's a water-tap," said he! The Aberdeen
show was duly reported in your columns at the
time, and it is therefore not of it I intend to write,
but of the tine park iu which it was held.

The Duthie Park, the gift of the late Miss
Duthie, extends to 44 acres, aud is under the able
management of Mr. Peter Harper. The situation
of the park is in every way a beautiful one, and it
is boldly aud effectively laid out. Here Nature
supplies mountains for a background, aud rivers
and woodlands for a middle distance, aud Mr.
Harper fills iu the foreground — with what? Largely
with hardy annuals, and it was their beauty and
appropriateness that caused me to make the few
uotes which I am now extending. In a park of
such exteut as this there are many bold clumps
of trees, aud many beds of shrubs. Bound the
outside of many of the latter, about IS inches

FEBR0ARV 25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

125

back from the grass - hedging, Mr. Harper has
plauted Arabia alpiua, Erica carnea, Alyssum
saxatile, aud alpine Auriculas, which form
beautiful edgings in spring. The space between
these plants and the grass is carefully cultivated
and manured in the autumn and again in the
spring, and it is here the fine effects are obtained
with many of our common varieties of hardy
annuals. At the time of my visit the most
beautiful were the following : (iodetias Lady Satiu,
Rose, Gloriosa, and Duchess of Albany ; -Jacobs,, a
very tine dwarf strain, with double flowers of a rich
crimson colour ; Kucharidium grandillorum and
Linum grandillorum were two other striking crim-
sons. Among white-coloured flowers were the
well-known Alyssum maritiuium, Candytuft, and
Matricaria inodora, 8. -pi. , the latter being kept by
cuttings every year. Brachycome iberidifolia, or
the Swan River Daisy, was very-well grown and
particularly charmiug ; although it ranged in colour,
white predominated. Viscaria oculata formed very
brilliant hues in the sun, and that lovely annual
Linaria reticulata aureo-purpurca seemed ipiite at
home, forming thick lines of itsbrowu flowers tipped
with gold. Others used with capital effect were, Con-
volvulus minor, blue: Lupinus nanus, a most service
able annual which keeps a long tim - in goo 1 order ;
Omphalodes liuifolia (Venus navel-wort) ; Nemophila
insignis.Yenidiumcalendulaeenmihko a Calendula or
pot-Marigold) ; Calliopsis Drummondi, Saponarias,
and Eschscholzias. The latter were very wcllgro'.vn.
and embraced all the newest shades of orange,
silmou, salmon-pink, rose, and carmine. I must
not forget that pretty little compact blue annual
Kalfussia amelloides. Gazanias and acapital strain
of Lobelia (Duthie Park blue), are propagated by
cuttings and used in association with Pelargoniums
iu the beds near the entrance-gates. Dahlia- are
also largely grown, all the newest and best varieties
of the Cactus class being much iu evidence : but it
was of the humble annuals, and the effective use
made of them by Mr. Harper, that 1 took up ray
pen to write, and I have done so at a time when
the experience at Duthie Park may be suggestive
to others arranging for summer effects. 1 have
already stated that Mr. Harper thoroughly culti-
vates his narrow borders in autumn and spring.
He is never iu a hurry to sow, and I think this is
important. He waits until the end of April, or
even until early May, and until the soil is, through
weather conditions, in first-class sowing order.
The plants are moderately thinned when in a small
state, before they have time to get drawn up into a
spindly condition. William Cuthbertnon, Roth

Law Notes.

MKSSRS. r,. H. BATH v. YV. F. GILLETT.

At the last sitting of the Wisbech County
Court, before His Honour Judge Willis, Messrs.
H. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech,
sued W. F. Gillett, of Conway Road, Cardiff,
architect, under a default summons for £3, in
respect of goods supplied. Mr. Leak, ou behalf of
the plaintiffs, said he did not think it was any use
asking for an order for payment forthwith ; the
claim was for plants supplied for defendant's
garden. The defendant was an architect, and they
found that the furniture was in his wife's name.

His Honour remarked that might lie so, and
added, that la great service was rendered to the
public by Messrs. Bath, who, in reply to adver-
tisements, sent out goods that people might rely
upon. No person like the defendant, however,
should order those thiugs without having the
means to send the money direct. Eventually
judgment was entered for the plaintiffs for the
amount claimed, to be paid at the rate of £1 per
month.

The Licensing of Gardeners.

A large meeting of nurserymen and florists was
held on Thursday evening, February 16, at the
seed warehouse of Messrs. Wm. Clibran & Son,

Manchester, to receive a report from Mr. E. Collens,
concerning his recent visit to London with Mr.
Troeby, as reported in our issue of February 19.

Sir Johu Maclure, M.P., personally conducted
the deputation to the Treasury Office, Whitehall,
and they were introduced to the private secretary
to the First Lord of the Treasury (the Right Hon.
A. J. Balfour), by whom they were very kindly
received, and the object of their visit was fully
explained by Sir Johu.

Mr. Collens explained the position taken up by
the trade as to the injustice cf the case. The
absurdity of the judgment was pointed out, and
Mr. Collens' impression from the questions asked,
and the way the answers were received, was that
he (the secretary) was surprised at (lie judgment
Mr. Yates had given.

The Secretary asked Mr. Collens to leave his
notes; and a promise was given that the papers
should be carefully perused, and that he would
communicate with the deputation through Sir John
Maclure.

The manner in which the deputation was received
was gratifying, and the members came away
satisfied that justice would be done to their case,

Mr. Collens then reported that he had had an
interview the same day with Mr. Butcher, solicitor
to the Nursery and Seed Trade Association, who
stated that the association was anxious to take the

matter up in Loud and a special appeal case might

be taken out and fought through the courts there.

Mr. COLLENS thought it would be advisable to
leave the case iii the hands of Mr. Butcher, and it
was f,,r the meeting to decide whether it should be
proceeded with in Manchester as previously ar-
ranged, or whether it should be transferred to
London.

After considerable discussion, in which Messrs.
Yates, Hooley, Birkenhead, Watkins, Plant, aud
Brownhil] joined, the following resolution, a- pro
posed by Mr. Birkenhead, and seconded by Mr.
Hooley, was carried unanimously : —

"That this meeting is of opinion that it would
he better to wait the decision from the Treasury
1 »ffi before proceeding any further in the matt r :
but in the eveutof the answer not being favourable,
that the whole affair should be transferred to the
bauds of the Nursery and Seed Trade Association
to proceed further with."

Mr. Birkenhead proposed, aud Mr. C. NbYES
seconded, that a very hearty vote of thanks be
accorded to Messrs. Collens & Treeby for the very
efficient way they had conducted the proceedings
in London, and to Mr. Watkius for his serve s ;
also to Mr. Clibran for his valuable help, and for
the use of the room for their meeting. This was
carried unanimously.

Lord Bath and the Lit essisq op Gardeners.

In reference to the taxation of gardeners, we may
recall the fact that the Marquis of Bath was sum -
mened recently at Warminster for employing male
servants without taking out liceuses. The case for
the Inland Revenue' authorities was that fifty men
were employed in the gardens and grounds at
Longleat, and that twelve claimed to be under-
gardeners were not licensed. The figures were
admitted, and it was contended that twenty of the
men were employed aud received pay as ordinary
labourers, and that licenses were not required.
The Bench took this view and dismissed the sum-
mons, and allowed three guineas solicitor's ties.

Notice of appeal was given ou behalf of the
Inland Revenue. A similar decision was given a
few weeks previously, and it was repeated iu order
to afford an opportunity for au appeal. Devizes and
Wiltskirt Gazette.

Gardens, deeply mourned by his family, and
regretted by his numerous friends. An impressive
funeral service was held iu Rutland Square Pres-
byterian Church ou Wednesday morning at 9 o'clock,
after which the funeral took place at Mount
Jerome Cemetery.

Mr. Smith was seventy-three years of age, and of
Scottish extraction, and had hecn in charge of
the Vice-Regal Gardens in the Phoenix Park
for about forty years, during which time it was
celebrated for its good and artistic management.
In the early days of flower gardening the bedding
out at these gardens was perhaps the earliest and
best iu Ireland. The vineries aie extensive, and
coutain one or two remarkable Vines, grown on
the extension principle.

Formerly under the control of the Lord Lieu-
tenant for the time being, the gardens have of
recent years been under Mr. Smith's more imme-
diate care. Standing as they do close beside the
Vice- Regal Lodge, aud in the centre of the noble
Phoenix Park (with its groves of native Hawthorn,
ami splendid groups of Elm-trees planted by the
Earl of i he-irrlield), these gardens are very beau-
tiful, and contain a very healthy and interesting
collection of memorial trees, most of them planted
by H.M. the Queen, the late Prince Consort, and
their children.

It is not too much to say that while under the
earlier management of Mr. Smith, under Yice-
Regal auspices, these celebrated gardens have been
of immense value as an efficient working school of
gardening. Not only were they an excellent
example to the country at large— the best of
object-lessons — but from their precincts good and
capable men were engaged for other gardens
throughout Ireland. Mr. Smith leaves a widow,
also a sou and a daughter, to whom we tender our
most respectful sympathy in their sad loss.

REV. A. HEADLEY. -We regret to see the death
announced, in the Journal of Horticulture, of the
Rev. A. Headley, on February 15. The deceased
clergyman was a frequent, contributor to the pages
of the Journal, and the originator of the phra e
" Our Journal," as applied to it.

©bituan?.

George Smith, Vice - Regal Gardens,

DUBLIN. — It is with deep regret that we learn of
tli3 death of this veteran and much-respected mem-
ber of the horticultural craft. Mr. Smith died on
February 19 at his residence at the Vice-Regal

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.
rn.r.rvev 14.— Present : Mr. McLachlan, in the chair;
Mr. tin, Is,, n. Rev. w. Wilks, Mr. Michael, and Rev. n
Henslow, Hon, Sec

' A]>ple-tuHgs. — These were received hist December
from Rev. .\. Poster-Melllar. Prof. w. 10. Smith, after a
prolonged ami difficult investigation, has pronounced the
disease to be due In bacteria, ami Forwarded (lie following
interesting report :— "The portions of branches or Apple
sent shoiv a disease with the following characters. The wood
is sound, except where in contact with the bark ; the bark is
e nnpletely disorganised, with the exception of the hard (ibres
an, I tlie dry outer corky layer, investigations for signs of
fungi ,,i insects made on arrival of the material (December I")
g ive no result. Portions were placed in a moist chamber and

examinedduringjanuary. Thebark became roftand spongy

i,, \v!h appeared, but bacteria were found in numbei
A in ,i! j-t other baetei ial form9, a bacillus was common which
agreed with that figured by Duggar (Cornell University Bul-
,145, IS9S). Other symptoms, as far as presented by the
materia! sent, agreed with American descriptions of the
1, i.i'i ial disease " lire-blight.' We have, however, no record
of the tree having blackened twigs or leaves during last
summer— an important symptom of 11ns disease. "Fire.
blight «as proved, chiefly by the work of Burrill, in 1880, in
bs due t,, tin- action "t bacteria. A good general account,
based on further research, is given by Waite < I",",- /.'<»,/.' of the
U.S. America Department "J Agriculture, 1895). The disease
appears in America mi Pearand Quince oftener than on Apple,
ami is also known on allied species. It attacks chiefly vigorous
well-fed trees wiih much sort youngwood, similar, in (act,
to this Apple-tree as described by your correspondent. A warm
moist season or situation favours the disease; dry weather
cheeks it, and during winter it makes little progress. The
remedy is to prune off thoroughly all parts which show
discoloured or destroyed bark, and in carefully burn them.
Pruning is best done in autumn or spring. The cuts must be
ma Le well below diseased parts, and large wo inids should lie
painted with tar. II tin- pruning be severe, it may induce a
large growth of young wood next season; this must be care.
fully watched, as it is an excellent starting-point for a

126

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 25, 1S99.

reappearance of the disease. The bacteria are propagated by
insects, which visit a gummy fluid containing bacteria, which
is given out from diseased parts of the bark. Then they visit
a similar fluid exuded from the bark where exposed by
cutting, boring insects, or other agents, and they infect this
with bacteria. A similar fluid in the flowers also tempts
insects there, and the bacteria thus introduced destroy the
fruit crop." A unanimous vote ot thanks was given to
Professor Smith for his valuable report.

Lourya campanula to. —Mr. Jas. Hudson exhibited a speci-
men of this uncommon plant in blossom, of which figures
will be found on p, 117.

Pear-tree with Caterpillar.— Mr. McLachlan showed a twig
with the interior eaten away by the caterpillar of the wood
leopard moth, Zeuzera JEsculi. It was received from Mr. N.
Nutter, of Leigham Cottage, St. Julien, Old Streatham. The
best, remedies for this and boring-beetles is to run a stout
wire up the gallery and pierce the grubs. Petroleum, or
spirits of turpentine, poured down the hole would also
probably be effective in destroying them.

Ilicliardia, twospathed.— B,ev. H. F. Goffe, Thoresway,
Caistor, forwarded a specimen in which the uppermost leaf had
assumed the form of an additional spathe— a not uncommon
phenomenon. It was hoped that experiments would be made
t" lix this peculiarity if possible.

Cedar with aerial roots.— The following communication was
received from Mr. J. W. Odell, The Grove, Staumore, together
with photographs of the tree described, and a large mass of
aerial roots :— " During the recent heavy gales considerable
damage was done to one of the large Cedars of Lebanon in
Mrs. Brightweu's grounds here ; a huge branch was torn from
the parent trunk, and revealed a very curious growth oi
aerial roots. I forward to you with this letter photographs
showing the broken branch in two positions, and also a part
of the very large growth of adventitious roots. You will
observe on photograph (marked A) a large sear, corres-
ponding in size and shape to the base of the branch
on photograph marked B. The roots sent were growing from
the edges of the contiguous portions of the trunk and
broken branch, and grew downwards from this position
towards the base of the tree, but had only penetrated so far
as is indicated by a small branch at the base of the scar (seen
on both photographs). Both on the branch and on the scar
left on the trunk the wood is very much splintered, and the
ion's were found not only in a large mass as sent, but also
growing in between the splintered portions of the wood. The
appearance of the fracture indicates, I think, some previous
injury (perhaps by lightning), and as a consequence some
moisture may have penetrated into the union between the

trunk and the branch. I have once or twice before s

similar i ts in broken pollarded Willows, but have never

observed the formation of such adventitious roots in a Conifer,
and thought perhaps it would have some little interest for
your committee of the R.H.S."

ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL
IMPROVEMENT.

February 4.— The monthly meeting was held at Newport

mii the above date, Dr. J. Groves presiding over a ■- I

attendance.

Mr. George Bennett, florist, Hyde, gave an interesting
lecture on the "Cultivation of Potatos," several of his
remarks leading to considerable discussion, as they were
quite contrary to the general practice of Potato-growers. Mr,
Bennett recommended the planting of sets without shoots oi
spe 11 3, and to be put at a depth of about 9 inches, to render
it unnecessary to earth them up. Amongst the varieties for
general cultivation lie recommended Up-to-Date, White
Beauty of Hebron, and Buttons' Satisfaction.

(Pirst-classCertificate); Ortontoglossum hybrid (First-class Cer-
tificate); and O. crispum (Award of Merit). O. O. Wriolev,
Esq., Bury(gr., Mr. Rogers), showed Cyp, Lathamiannm aureum
giganteum (Award of Merit); C. h. inversum (Award of Meril );
and Dendrobium atroviolaceum.

A Wakburton, Esq., Haslingden (gr., Mr. Lofthouse),
showed Odontoglossum crispum Jcanette (First-class Certill-
cate), Cattleya Trianai Imperator (Award of Merit), and
Cypripedium Prewetti.

W. Duckworth, Esq., Shaw Hall, Flixton (gr., Mr.
Tindale), showed Dendrobium Schneiderianum. C. J. Cros
field, Esq., S-jfton Park, Liverpool, showed Cattleya Trianad
Jean Ritchie and Odontoglossum crispum Crosfieldianum.

Mr. James Cypher, nurs ryman, Cheltenham, showed
Lselia auceps Schroderiana (First-class Certificate); also a
miscellaneous group, for which he was awarded a Silver Medal.

Mr. John Rohson", Altrinchain, showed Dendrobium
Dominianum (Cultural Certificate). Messrs. Stanlev-Moup.:;
& Ashton, Southgate, showed Cypripedium Spicero-Cham-
berlainianum.

RENFREWSHIRE GARDENERS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

February 10.— A meeting of the Renfrewshire Gardeners'
Mutual Improvement Society was held on tins date; Mr.
Rober i Macfee presided, and there was a good attendance.

Mr. John Ferrier, foreman in the gardens, Craigends, read a
paper on the " Vine," giving an account in a clear and prac-
tical manner of the methods required in successful culture.

Mr. Dewar, Curator, Botanic Gardens, Glasgow, read a
paper on "Ramhles in Switzerland." Mr. Dewar was on a
botanical expedition in Switzerland, and his description of the
flora of the Alps was of great interest.

Thereafter, Mr. John Stewart, gardener, Cartvale, showed,
by the aid of lantern -slides, a large number of pictures ol
Swiss scenery, which were much appreciated.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

Februauy '.». — Oa the occasion of meeting held at th:
Coal Exchange, Manchester, on the above data, there were
present, Mjsjrs. O. Shorland Bill (in the chair), Thomas
Shatter, J. Loaminn, H. Greenwo id, .1. Cypher, R. Johnson,
and Tin on is Mills til in. See.).

Thomas SrvrTER, Esq., Stand Hall (gr., Mr. Johnson),
showed Cypripedium insigne Luciani, receiving a First-class
<vi,:ii\ii>; c. Wiertzianuin (Bothschildianum x Laurencea-
nu in), First-elas3 Certificate ; and Dendrobium Whitefieldi
(Leechianuin x albiflorum), an Award of Merit. G. W. Law-
S ihofiem), Esq., New Hall Hey (gr., Mr. Shill). showed Den-
drobium Aiuswo] t Inane in ( First-class Certificate) ; a Ism a yellow
form <ii Cypripediutn msimie. John Leemann, Esq., Heaton
Mersey (gr., Mi'. Edge), showed Cattleya Trianeei, West Bank
House var. (Award or Merit); »'. T Chevalieriaua (Award of
Merit); Laelio-Cattleyn Gottoiaua (Award of Merit); Cyp.
nitens superbum ; Cyp. Creon ; Dendrobium Wardiannm
can lidunt (Award of Merit); Maxillaria Lindenbv (Award of
Merit) ; and Cattleya chocoeiisis alba (Award of Merit). This

exhibitor received also a Silver-gilt Medal for a miscellan is

group.

11 Gakhnwood, Km. Haslingden (gr., Mr. Gill), showed
Dendrobium Cybele roseiim (Award of Merit); 1>. nobile
Murrhinianuin (Award of Merit), and a group of Dendrobium s
for which he received a Vote of Thanks. Mrs. Brigos, Bury,
Accringtm (gr., .Mr. Wilkinson), showed Oy p. Beckmanni
(First-class Certificate) ; Cyp. insigne, Hare field Hall var

READING & DISTRICT GARDENERS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

February 13. — An interesting lecture on "Destructive
and Injurious Sawflies" was given on the above 'late befori
the members of this association] by Mr, P. H. Foulkes,
B.Sc. Edin., of th ! R i iding College.

In introducing the subject, the lecturer said that sawflies
belonged to the order Hyinenoptera, which included all those
insects which had wings of a membranous character, and that
this particular order was also divided into various classes.
The flies touched upon weir the Apple sawtly, Gooseberry and
Currant sawfly, Cherry and Pear sawfly, and the Turnip saw-
fly. Their time of appearing, method of attack, the bent
me his to take for their prevention or destruction, and the
various stagas of growth, were fully deall with, the latter
more particularly so bj thaaid of several illustrations shown
by limelight.

SHERBORNE GARDENERS' MUTUAL
IMPROVEMENT.

At a meeting recently held, an address was given by
Mr. ciook, gardener of Forde Abbey, on "Profitable Fruit-
culture."

After asserting that the demand for good fruit wis n. reas*
ing, and thai fruit cultivation, if properly carried out, was a
paying business, he maintained that Cox's Orange Pippin,
i he qualities of which it took the English thirty years to
recognis?, had been pronounced by expert judges to be the
b -si Apple of the day. and a man who understood his business
would ont sell it for less than 2s. per dozen. The Wesl of
England was one of the best parts of this country to grow
fruit; hut what did they find in their orchards? Miserable
crabs. If they planted Apples like the Cux's Orange Pippin,
the, would make money instead of sending it ■mi tu America,
Tasmania, and California. He had seen Blenheim Orange In
Yeovil Markel for which \d. per lb. was asked, and they would
be astonished at the figure that worked out per bushel, lie
had gathered 110 lb. off a Lane's Prime Albert, which was
only 7 feet high, and 7 fee! in diameter; and another tree,
Seat mi House, which was introduced from Scotland, and
1> ars early, would paj In grow.

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT GAR
DENERS\

Febrtarv 15. — At the fortnightly meeting held on the
above date. Mr. T. Haskett, gr. to J. W. Rhodes, Esq , Henner-
ton, read a paper on " Kitchen Gardening," describing what
a kitchen-garden should be, and the great amount of fore-
thought necessary to keep a garden as it ought to he kept

The soil and situation best suited fur such a garden were
dwelt upon, and the proper methods of digging, trenching,
and ridging explained.

After some discussion as to the desirability of inaugurating
a course of lectures on some of the more popular flowers in
their season, it was agreed to give a lecture on " Daft'olils " in
April.

SHIRLEY AND SURROUNDING DIS-
TRICTS GARDENERS' AND

AMATEURS/

Febriarv -20.— The monthly meeting of the above society
was held at the Farish Room, Shirley, Southampton, on the
above date, the President, W. F. G. Spranc.ek, Esq., C.C..
presiding over a good attendance of members.

The lecture was under the auspices of the Technical Educa-
tion Committee, Southampton County Council, and was given
by Mr. E. T. Mellor, B.Sc., London Lecturer in Biologj at the
Hartley Cullege, Southampt ill.

"The Influence of Light mi Plants," was the subjeel of the
lecture, which was amply illustrated by means of lantern
slides and experiments. A lew questions were put to (be
lecturer and answered, and at the close a vote of thanks was
heartily accorded to Mr. Mellor for his most interesting lec-
ture. There was a nice display of spring-blooming plants,
contributed by the members ; and Mr. Curtis, gr. to the
President, was awarded 1st priz3 for three sorts of forced
vegetables. During the month there was also an excursion of
a large number of the members to chemical works of Messrs
Spooner & Bailey, Eling, near Southampton, by special invi-
vation from the linn. Mr. E. Bailey courteously showed the
party over the works, explaining in all its details the
manufacture of chemical manures.

DUMFRIESSHIRE AND GALLOWAY
HORTICULTURAL.

February is.— a special meeting of the committee wis held

• ■ii i!i' above date. The ptize schedule for The forthc g

show was finally revised, ami tie' show will in- held in the
Drill Had, l Mim ivies, on Wednesday, September ii.

ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND.

The Annual Meeting.

February 17.— The annual meeting of the supporters oi this
excellent institution was held on the above dateat Anderton's
lb del, fleet Street, Loud, iii, E.G. Among the company
present, which was larger than usual, were, noticed Messrs. W.
Marshall, II. J. Veitch, Dr. M. T. Masters, W. Roupell, Geo.
G irdon, J. Assbee. A. \\". G Weeks, W. Poupart, H. IJ. May,
II. .1. Jones, C. E. Osman, J. Smith, P. Rudolph Barr,

A. < lutram, A. F. Barron, R. Dean, B. Wynne, A. Dean,
W. H. Divers, &c.

The minutes of the last meeting having been read by Mr.

B. Wynne, and adopts I by th ise present, the Chairman
(W. Marshall, Esq.) moved the adoption of the Committee's
Report, which ran as follows : --

Report and Statement of Accounts /or (he Year
ending December 31, 1898.

At the close of the eleventh \'ir since the institution of
the Fund, your committee are enabled to announce that it
i- gratifying In lind that there is an increase in the annual
subscriptions, though the committte are compelled to admit
that they have not hitherto receive I that measure of support
from the gardeners of the kingdom that they hoped for in
the early days of the Fund. The financial support received
his largely been derived from sources, the existence of which
was scarcely contemplated at the outset, such as receipts
from the sale of flowers at horticultural exhibitions, the
opening of gardens and plant-houses to the public, concerts,
&c. Gardeners' societies in particular have given a generous
measure of support which materially assisted the Committee
in administering relief to the fatherless when it was most
urgently needed. In view of the number of applicants for the

benefits of the Fund, your Comtnitt hi most earnestly

appeal for the sympathy and support of the entire gardening
community, and especially to that section of it for whose
orphan children the assistance a Honied by the Fund is solely
intended.

There are now sixtj -eight children receiving the benefits of the
Fund, in ail I nil iii tu tin isc t<> be elected this day. Must gratify-
ing assurances are constantly being received from the mothers
ol orphan children, to the effect t hat the assistance rendered
during the time the child was nn the Fund, proved of
uuspeakable a Ivantage t t many a struggling widow ; and not
less satisfactory has bsen the testimony borne to the timely
and valuable aid rendered to some orphans in giving them a

stall in life a!t>r they had ceased to be ebargeablc to the
Fund.

The i ital number of children who have been placed on the
Fund since its foundation is 103. and the total amount paid
t > the orphans is £6S36 l "■•. Special grants in aid have been
made this year to the amount of £1S 5s.

The annual festival took place at the H6tel Metropole in
April last, and the committee were fortunate in securing the
value 1 services of Charles E Keyser, Esq., Aldermaston
Court, [leading, High Sheriff of Berkshire, as their chairman,
whose forcible appeal in aid or tin- Fund assisted iu realising
the sum of t-r>57 1 Is.

Your committee have gi at pleasure in placing on record
their high sense (.f the important services rendered to the
Fund by the treasurer, N. N. Sherwood, Esq., whose generous
support of the charitable institutions connected with horticul-
ture is so keenly appreciated by the whole gardening com-
munity ; an 1 they give hearty thanks to their auditors,
Messrs. Martin Rowan and P. Rmbdp'i Barr. for bestowing
so much attention in auditing the accounts. Mr. Ban is

the ret mug auditor, and is nominated by your committee for

re-eleel mil.

By the death of Baton Ferdinand dc, Rothschild, the fund

February 25, 1890.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

127

loses one of its vice-presidents, and a generous supporter for
several years past. The committee recommend that C. E.
Keyser, Esq., be this clay elected a vice-president to fill the
vacancy.

It is with great regret that your Committee have to
announce the retirement of Mr. A. F. Barron from the post of
secretary to the Fund through Jailing health. As one of the
chief promoters of the Fund, and its secretary since its
establishment, Mr. Barron has done much to further its
interests, and merits the best thanks of all interested in gar-
deners and gardening ; and in consenting to be nominated
for election as a member of the Executive Committee, Mr.
Barron proves his devotion to the Fund, and his ready wil-
lingness to continue to afford assistance in carrying on the
good work. The committee unanimously express their sym-
pathy with Mr. Barron, and their best wishes for his improved
health and well-being.

Mr. G. \Y. Cummins has resigned his seat on the committee,
and Mr. T. Peed, Roupell Park Nurseries, S.E., has been
elected to succeed him. The members of committee who
retire by rotation are Messrs. Cuthbert, Laing, Lyne, Nichol-
son, Osman, Poupart, Smith, and Walker. These, with the
exception of Messrs. Nicholson, Smith and Laing, being
eligible, offer themselves for re-election. The committee
nominate Messrs. A. F. Barron, Chiswick ; J. Cheal,
Crawley; and W. Howe, Park Hill Gardens, Streatham, for
election this day.

The committee, having advertised for a secretary, have
considered the numerous applications, and recommend Mr.
Brian Wynne for election at a salary of £100 per annum.

CASH STATEMENT FOE THE YEAR ENDING
DECEMBER SI, L89&

Receipts. £ s, d.

To balance from last account i>:;:> 17 :;

„ Subscriptions, general ... ... £282 9 6

,, „ collected by local sees. ... 79 16

., Donations, general 148 2

,, ,, collected by local sees. ... 64 8

,, The Emma Sherwood Memorial

,, Annual dinner

,, Cmd collection

,, Advertisements in lists of subscribers...
., Dividends on stock and interest on deposit .

862

212 11
13 0

557 10
29 5
28 9

266 i I

Rote.— Investments :

2fy Consols

8 -/■ Canada stock

L. & N. W. Railway pref,

stock

Thomson Memorial Trust :
East India Railway B. an-
nuity of tU (cost)

£2,405 11 1L

£7,070 6 Hi
2,000 0 0

By

Expenditure.

Allowances to orphans £898 5 0

Emma Sherwood Memorial 13 0 0

Grants in aid IS 5 0

Annual dinner

Secretary's salary

Printing and posting subscribers'

lists

Printing and stationery ..

13

11

<i

Annual general meeting, audit, &c.

11

6

11

Hire of room for committee meetings

•>

■»

0

Postages

15

0

10

Bank charges

1

18

s

Sundry expenses (petty cash) ...

6

10

0

929 10 0

134 16 1

lir, ii ii

20 17 il

55S 10

11

0

0

6

100

0

0

65S

13

5

£2

,405

II

11

y Auditors.

Purchase of £840 L. & N.-W. By.
4°/0 Preference Stock ...

Balance-
Cash at bank

Cash in hand

Cash on deposit

Having inspected the securities and examined the books and

vouchers supplied to us, we hereby certify the above account

to be correct. (Signed) P.Rudolph Bark

M. Rowan

Hated January 21, 189P.

There was general satisfaction with the nature of the above
report, and after the chairman's proposition had been seconded
by Mr. A. W. G. Weeks, the report and cash statement were
accepted without discussion.

Election of Officers.

Proceeding to the election of officers, Mr. R. Dean moved a
Vote of thanks to Mr. N. N. Sherwood for his services as Trea-
surer to the Fund, and at the same time moved Mr. Sherwood's
re-election, which, after being seconded by Mr. Osman, was
carried with enthusiasm.

Mr. P. Rudolph Barr was then re-elected joint-auditor on
the proposition of Mr. H. B. May, seconded by Mr. A. Outram.
Tli1 re-arrangement of the committee, as proposed in theabove
report, was also duly effected, and no counter-propositions
were made.

Proceeding to the election of secretary, the chairman
announced that the committee had received 201 replies to
their advertisements for a secretary in the room of Mr. Barron.
A sub-committee had been appointed, who after several sit-
tings had eventually selected six candidates. These were each

balloted for by the whole of the committee, and tin:1 result
was in favour of Mr. Brian Wynne. The Chairman had,
therefore, to propose the election of that gentleman by tin-
meeting. He said they all knew how Mr. Wynne had lent a
helping hand to Mr. Barron for some years past, and there
was no one better suited for the position. The proposition
was seconded by Mr. R. Dean, and passed unanimously
without further Liscussion. Mr. Wynne then thanked the
meeting for its confidence, and pledge I himself to further the
interests of the Fund to his utmost ability.

Mr. H. J. Veitch next proposed a resolution thanking Mr.
A. P. Barron for his labours on behalf of the Fund since its
inception eleven years ago, which foi some years was done
without pecuniary reward. Also that there be presented to
Mr. Barron an illuminated address upon vellum. It was with
the deepest regret that Mr. Witch moved such a resolution,
knowing the circumstances of Mr. Barron's health that have
led up to his retirement. We can only hope, said Mr. Veitch,
"that with tin- relaxation of duties it may please God to
spare him for many years to come."

Dr. Maxwell T. Masters, who seconded the motion, said,

Hi'- i ting was in perfect unison with the sentiments

expressed by Mr. Veitch. They were all deeply grateful to
Mr. Barron. The chairman added that everyone knew what a
great deal Mr. Barron has done from pure love forth.' garden-
ing fraternity. Mr. Barron thanked the meeting in tones
scarcely audible for their kind words, and said that it gave
him much pain to relinquish his duties, lie hoped, howi ver,
to be of further service to the Fund as a member of the
Committee.

Alteration ov Rui i

RuleV. — Upon tin- recommendal f the Committee, 11

was decided in Rule V., line 1, after the word " purpose," to
omil the words "All donations and legacies," and'to insert

Mi;. W. MARSHALL,

i liairman of the Committee of tin' i; rya] G irdeners
Orphan Fund.

the following : — " All reoeipl [acies an- 1 donations

specially given as such for investment, shall be considered as
subscriptions, and be available foi current expenditure. All

legacies and special donations."

Rule XI. —Line -.after the word " require," the following
addition was made:— "Not more than two children of the
same family can be in receipt of the benefits of the Fund at
tlie same time." The chairman explained tin' circumstances
that had led the Committee to propose this alteration, and
letters were read from Mr. J. B. Stevenson and Mr. .1.
Miles, honorary local secretaries at Bournemouth and South-
ampton respectively, in which thej advocated even a more
stringent regulation than that proposed.

Mr. A. Dean suggested that at a future time it would be
expedient to insist that there must be four children under
twelve years of age in a family before two of ii, members
could be upon the fund at the same time. The alteration as
proposed by the committee' was earned unanimous!} .
Election of Candidates to the Find.

The chairman stated that of the nineteen candidates foi
benefit from the fund the committee recommended that nine
be elected. Two of the nineteen had left this country, and
were therefore not eligible— these were James Seegar and
Eugenia Seegar. Anyone present who had voted for either of
these children could transfer them.

The scrutinising committee subsequ -ntly reported that tie'
following nine children were elected : —

Alice Gilhorne Seaton 373 Votes.

Ml KIEL GUTTERIDGE 373 ,,

Daisy Agnes Si-ong 2S'2 „

G. H. Donaldson 256 ,,

Jas. Henry Tanton 250 ,,

Helen Maodonald Milxk 217 ,,

[sabella Emma French 205 ,,

Vanda Mary Babtlett 200 ,,

Harry John Mason .. 195 ,,

in regard to on.- of the unsuccessful candidates, Arfchui
George Wood, a second scrutiny was asked for, ami it was
found that the votes recorded for him were 190.

At six o'clock iii the evening, a friendly dinner of the
members of the committee and friends was held, undei the
presidency of Mr. W. J. Nutting.

,3fe sliiP

I rin' term "accumulated temperature" indicates the aggregate
amount, as well as t li > • duration, of degrees of tempei
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; ami tins
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees— a "Day.
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

\ Rainfall. i:V"'"

1 DUN.

£1

Accumulated.

a

> '
OS r-l

o

GO

O

n

2

— «

It

i

9

■s,

a ■- ~

3 -

5

-If

o

J J
a :

>
o

s .

CI t

■*fe

> •*

a

5 a«s

■~ 'a M

s = 3

u J2 QO

> = =

uj ,d

C D

— t
£3

at

as

►-a
o
*5S

=:

entage of pos
tion for the
entage of pos
on since Jan

--

<

a

•<

3 *»

en

S

a

o
H

Day-

Day-

Day-

Day-

lOths

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

4 +

19

11

- 18

- 41

4 -t-

35

s-i

10

14

i

0 +

22

14

- 24

— 22

2 +

34

5-8

22

19

2

4 +

27

16

+ 4S

- 96

1 -

38

3-:,

30

is

::

7 +

33

7

+ 81

- 177

1 +

33

3-5

37

29

4

0 +

33

12

1- 68

- 137

4 +

34

6-0

27

22

5

6 +

33

1

93

- 167

3 +

32

.'.■4

:;::

20

i.

i

22

7

+ 5

- 36

0 aver

36

9-1

24

17

V

30

s

+ 07

- 97

i aver

35

0-9

23

20

8

5 +

33

3

1- 71

- 102

7 +

34

11-0

24

23

:i

2 +

23

10

r 4

24

» aver

30

6-3

32

23

In

2 +

29

s

+ 35 - 42

3 +

37

10-2

34

24

■4 +

43

0

i 1 19 - 57

) aver

34

7-2

28

23

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. ;
1, Midland Counties; 5, England, including London, s.
Principal Grazing, £c, Districts — 6, Scotland, W. !
7, England, X.W. ; B, England, 8.W. ; 9, Ireland, N. ;
lo, Ireland, S. ; "Channel Islands.

THE PA8T WEEK.

The following summary record of the weather throughout
the British Islands for the week ending February 18, is
furnished from I tie M el ei rological Office :—

"Tin' weather was again very mild, unsettled, and rainy

generally. Thunder-storms were experienced at so i the

Irish and English stations between the 12th andl4th. Some
improvement took place over the greater pari of England
during the latter part of the week, and fog became general
over England on the 18th.

"The temperature was above the mean, the excess ranging
from 2° in Ireland, to as much as 0= in ' England, S.,' and 7°

in 'England, E.' The highest of the maxima were n led

on the 17th, when they ranged from 63° in ' England, S.W. al
Llandovery), [ami from 58* in the 'Channel Islands and
' England, E.,' to 51' in ' England, N.E.,' and to 50" in ' Scot-
Luii-1, W. ' The lowest of the minima were registered on the

16th, and ranged I -7 in 'England, N.E.,' and from 29°

in 'Ireland, S.' to 30° in 'England, S.,' and 37° in the
'Channel Islands.'

"The rainfall was rather less than the mean in 'Eng-
land, N.E.,' and just equal to it in 'Scotland, W.,' ' Ireland, N.,'
and the ' Channel Islands.' In all other districts there was
some excess, the fall in the 'Midland Counties' and in
'England, S.VYV being nearly double the normal value.

"The bright sunshine was in excess in most parts , -f th,-
kingdom, but somewhat deficient in 'Scotland, N. and E.,
and ' England, S.W.' The percentage of the possible duration
ranged from 37 in ' England, E.,' 34 in ' Ireland, S.,' and 33 in
' England, S.,' to 22 in 'Scotland, E.,'and 10 in 'Scotland, X. "

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

John* Jkfferies & Son, Cirencester— Seeds.

JOHS Russell, Richmond, Surrey— Seeds. \e.

James Hubbard & Son, Sleaford, Lincolnshire— Seeds.

W. W. Johnson & Son, Ltd., Boston Lincolnshire—Seeds.

FttANK Dicks & Co-, 06, Deansgate, Manchester— Seeds.

Wood & Ingram, Huntingdon— Seeds

128

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 25, 1899.

John Turner, North Street, Wetherby, Yorks— Seeds.

3. R. Pearson & Sons, Chilwell Nurseries, Nottingham —

Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, Dahlias, Cannas, Bedding

Plants, &c.
Chaei H. Shilling, Hartley Seed Stores, Witiclifleld- Seeds.
David Dow & Sow, 01, High Street, Falkirk— Seeds
■i\.. Cocker & Sons, 130, Union Street, Aberdeen
Albert F. Upstone, 1, Market Place, and 36, Church Strei I ,

Rothernam — Seeds.
Jobn Cowan & Co., Ltd., Gateacre Nurseries, Gateacre, near

Liverpool— Seeds.
Louis Van Houtte, Pere, Ghent, Belgium— Begonias, Ges-

neriaeeous Plants, Azaleas, Camellias, Rlind'ulend s,

Gloxinias, Palms, &e.
W. Ati.ee Burpee & Co., Philadelphia — Wholesale List of

Seeds.

Begonia : .s'. P. The rust is due to tlie attacks of
a mite (Sarsonymus) : parasitic fungi follow.
Burn any hopelessly-affected plants, and fumi-
gate the rest mildly once a week ; or dip the
plants in weak Tobacco- water.

Books: Woodman, A Manual of Forestry, by
\V. Schlich, published by Messrs. Bradbury,
Agnew & Co., Ltd., 8, 9. 10, Bonverie Street,
Fleet Street, E.G.

Cattt.eya : A". Y. Judging from the poorly de-
veloped flower sent, it is (J. Trianasi, pale form.

Cyclamen Flowers or two colours on one plant :
James McCiuloch. It is no uncommon occurrence
for these plants to " sport."

ERICAS: J. T. Erica hyemalis is not included in
Index Ki ir, nsis, being a hybrid. The proper
spelling of the name of the other variety men-
tioned is E. Wilmorei.

Failure ok Bulbs ok Tulips and Hyacinths:
II'. II. The Tulips sent are not of flowering age ;
and the Hyacinth was forced before its roots
had made much progress, hence the abortive
flower-shaft.

Funguson l.i cerne : //. B. The f tingns is Pseudo-
peziza medicoginis, Sacc., a well-known para;
site on Lucerne. As spraying is practically out
of the question, the best course to follow is to
cut diseased patches as soon as possible, so as to
prevent the extension of the fungus by means of
spores. Strewing the ground with straw or
other litter, and firing, helps to arrest the
disease, by destroying infected leaves that have
fallen to the ground. (!. M.

Leaf-bud and Fruit-bud: F. A. li. The buds
arc readily distinguished, a fruit-bud being larger,
thicker, and more abruptly pointed than a leaf,
or, in gardeners' parlance, a " wood-bud." Some
varieties of Pears, of which Marie Louise and
Jargonelle are examples, produce their finest
flower-buds at the tips of spurs of G to 8 inches in
length, and this fact should not be lost sight of
by the primer. In order to prevent a tree of
these or similar varieties getting inordinately
furnished with these long fruiting-spurs, spurs in
three different stages should be encouraged : that
is, spurs hard cut back, spurs singled out from
the best-placed of the shoots the result of this
hard priming; and, finally, the fruit-bearing
spurs. These may be obtained in pretty regular
rotation on every branch. As the lowermost
branches of a Tear-tree seldom fruit so abun-
dantly as the upper ones if pruned like them, the
fruiting spurs should lie allowed to grow long,
and they may even be nailed to the wall between
the branches, if space permits ; or they may hang
outwards from it to the extent of 1 foot.

Manuring Vine Borders: E. B. Cow-dung is
of very little value as a manure for Vinos ; oxen-
dung from the feeding-shed is far superior, but it
should not be applied before it has partially
decayed. Do not apply it if the soil is heavy,
nor plaster it over the border, as doing this
would hermetically close the soil against the
entry of air— aud roots need air. Better employ
manure-water during growth alternately with
clean water. Some of the patent artificial vine-
borders are good stimulants to apply before
affordiug water.

Melons and Cucumbers in a Stove : E. B. The
treatment required by Melon and Cucumber
plants is scarcely required by the inmates of the
ordinary stove, and either the stove-plants or the

fruits must suffer. How, for example, could you
afford the necessary dry air that a ripening Melon
requires if its flavour is to be passable, or the
suitable sort of ventilation? The conditions
usually obtaining in a fruiting Pine-stove, a
tropical aquarium, or Palm-house, would suit the
Cucumber better, but Melons grow best by them-
selves, as they need special treatment.

Myrtle Losing its Leaves : C. J. P. The leaf
si in shows that the plant has been greatly infested
by white thrips, a common pest on the Myrtle in
dry greenhouses. The plant should be taken
from the wall and well cleaned with petroleum
emulsion or Gishurst compound-soap, applied
;m rinding to the printed directions on the box.
Except during winter a Myrtle should be well
syringed, twice or thrice a week, and whilst
growing actively twice daily, which will do much
towards keeping it free from thrips and red spider.

Names ok Plants : Correspondents not answered in
I liis issue are requested to be so e/ood as to consult
the following number. — T. T. IV. 1, Daphni-
phyllum glaucescens ; 2, Daphne Mezereum ;

3, Elo?agnus pungens variegata ; 4, not recog-
nised, perhaps a Louicera ; 5, Quercus cuspidata ;
6, Leycesteria formosa. — Alpha. Bletia hyacin-
thiua. — P., Penge. These Adiautums have so
varied by garden forms, that it is not easy to
determine exactly what they are. Yours seem
to be : — 1 aud 3, Adiautum decorum ; 2, Adiau-
tmn cuneatum variety ; 3, Adiantmn YVillianisii ;
5, Adiautum cuneatum. The dead piece of
Orchid is probably Oncidinm flexuosum.
M. A'. M., Neath. A very fiue variety of Cattlrya
Triaiuei. — C. K. 1 and 2, varieties of typical
( loelogyne cristata ; 3, C. cristataalba (hololeuca) ;

4. (J. cristata Lemouiana. — Arttts. 1, Pinus
excclsa ; 2, Juniperus communis ; 3, Phyllirea
media : 4, Prunus lusitanica ; 5, Jasminum
nuditlorum : (i, Cotoneaster Simonsii.

NARCISSUS: /.'. O. II. It is not au uncommon
occurrence.

Nespula: II. A". I.r.quat Eriobotrya may be
intended. The Japanese Medlar is called by the
French, Neflicr dir.Iapon. In the event of your
plant being either of these, ordinary cool green-
house treatment is all it wants.

Peach Fruits Splitting : Xin us. An abundance
of water suddenly saturating the soil may, as
you suggest, be the cause of the splitting of
Peach fruits when approaching ripeness. If the
trees be fed with stimulating manures at the
time, or the atmosphere charged with excessive
moisture, these circumstances would aggravate
the malady. An article upon the subject was
published in the Gardeners' Chronicle, September
10, 1S9S, p. His.

Plants and Gas used with IncaNDESOENT
Burner : 0. IV. ■ The amount of gas issuing
from the vent, being less than with the ordinary
one, the injury to plants exposed to the fumes
would be correspondingly less.

Potatos for Plantinc; : Old Subscriber. Abun-
dance, Chiswick Favourite, Early Regent, Mag-
num Bonum (late), Schoolmaster, Snowdrop (late),
The Gentleman. The above are good croppers,
of handsome shape, and tine quality. Improved
Ashleaf is the finest early variety, but it crops
only moderately.

Potato Grub : OldJSubscriber. Liming will be
fouud the best remedy. Gas-lime might be used
in small quantity this season, and in greater
quantity in early autumn, for the following spring
planting. Quick-lime only should be used at the
rate of 40 to 50 bushels per acre.

Primula sinensis with Fdliaceous Flower ;
C. P. S. Such specimens are interesting, because
they prove what botanists always insist upon,
that the organs of a flower are modifications only
of leaves. Hence, occasionally, and for reasons
we cannot explain, the one is substituted for the
other. The specimen sent is not a ' ' novelty of
merit," but a " monstrosity," or an instance of
irregularity in the growth of a particular plant.

Purple Crocus : X Omitted last week. No. 1,
Crocus Imperati.

ScorzokEre, ok the French: /. A. G. This is
our Scorzonera, an edible root cultivated simi-
larly to the Carrot, The seed may be sown in
March in drills 10 to 12 inches apart, aud the
plants thinned early to a distance of 4 to 5 inches
apart. The ground should be hoed occasionally.

If the spring be dry, the seed may be afforded
water a few times. It is a hardy plant, and need
not be lifted in the autumn unless the ground is
required for something else.

Span'roofed-Hocse : Alpha, Your data are in«
sufficient, as you should have given the height of
the side walls to enable us to calculate the cubio
contents.

Strawberry Field : Strawberry. You should
obtain the services of a horticultural valuer to
inspect the field, and then fix the prospective
value of the next crop.

Strawberry Forcing-houses, &c. : C. D. Very
early forcing is perhaps best carried out in
lean-to houses, but later fruits are just as well
brought on in low span-pits, fitting these up with
central staging, and ample meaus of ventilation.
Such a house may be sunk in the soil 2 or more
feet, and thus economise fuel, or at least avoid
the use of strong heat. It should run north to
south. The plants should be grown in flower-
pots, 5 inches wide for the earliest batches, and
0 to 7 inches for later ones.

Tkiciioi'ilia : Veritas. T. Galeottiana flowers iu
August ; T. coccinea (marginata), in May aud
June ; and T. Warneri (probably T. Wageneri of
Reiohenbach is meant which differs scarcely at
all from T. fragrans), (lowers in the winter season.

Vines in Flower: E. B. The Vines may be
accommodated with temperatures by day with
fire-heat alone, that is, on cloudy or cold days, of
65° to 68° ; but with sunshine and but little
artificial heat, T0J would not be too high, air
being afforded, for without air admitted to the
vinery, the setting of the flowers will not be
satisfactory. The temperature in the afternoon
may range al closing time from 65° to 70" ; at
G p.m., 60°; and at 6 a.m., 55° to 56°. There
must be little fluctuation of temperature allowed
at this critical period. We eauuot say if high
temperatures have caused injury, only a person
on the spot would be enabled to decide that point,
The Muscat Vine in the vinery, if not at the
warmest end, may fail to set satisfactorily. You
should have covered the outside border a month
or two ago with stable-dung and tree-leaves, over
which shutters, tarpaulin, frame-lights, should
have been placed to ward off the wet and retain
heat iu the materials. If this bed be made 2 feet
thick, it is not likely to cause harm. It is not
yet too late to be of use. If you have none of
the above things, cover it with straw-thatch, and
lay some long poles across the thatch to keep it
in position. The bed may need a partial renewal
with warmed materials once or twice before the
increasing sunheat calls for its renewal. Do not
remove it all at once.

Wirbworm: W. B. Very difficult to eradicate;
quicklime dressings, and quicklime dug and
trenched into the soil does good. Fallowing
after dressing the land with soot and salt, or gas-
lime laid on au inch thick, are beneficial. After
all, deep cultivation, that is, burying the top
Bpit where the creatures abound three spits deep,
will work wonders in freeing the land if persisted
iu once in three years. They must have access to
the air; therefore, shallow soils, which do not
admit of deep digging, are usually the worst
infested. Iu gardens wdiere the wireworm is a
plague, it is advisable to sow seeds of the Lettuce
—a plant it is very partial to— alongside, but a
a foot or more distant from lines of Carrots,
Parsley, Cabbage, Cauliflower, &c.

Communications Received.— W. Alexander — W C
Cil"' Town— W. W.— S. A— Walshaw & Son.— W. '
F. Dibbens.— R. C.-W. (,'. Harman, Cape Town —A
— I.M.— W. B.—K. McDonald, of Logan —B B — A C
T. H. S.-F. A. E.-F. S— W. C.-A. IS., Jersey \
S. A.-G. B. M.-C. W. D.— Dr. Bonavia.— H. T-.
J. B., Wilts (next week).— D. T. F.— W. T —J R — W
F. W. B.— G. L. S.-J. O'B.-T. B.— F. Nasi,. '

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thank

Important to Advertisers. -The PuWsher i«<

me «"i.4»'/i». nj announcing tlmi (lie circulation of Die
Gardmert Chronicle" lute, since the reduction Mi the
price of Vie I'lijui-,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle " eircutatea among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Sabdeneri?
and Garden-lovers at lame, that it has a specially large
Foreion and Colonial Circulation and that it is
j i ere d fin- reference in all the principal libraries.

II .
IS.—
IS. s.

F

D.—
M.—
R.—

[For Markets, see p. xii.j

Makch 4, 1899.]

THE GAB DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

129

THE

dardmcrfj' djtanictc

No. 636.— SATUBDA f, MAR. 4, 1899.

BUD VARIATIONS.

WE find in the National Nwaeryman,
published at Rochester, New York, the
following remarks on sports and bud variations
which are of special interest to fruit-growers,
and which we therefore take the liberty to
transcribe : —

" An instructive paper on the application of
plant breeding through bud selection, to the
improvement of varieties, was read by G. H.
Powell, horticulturist, of the Delaware Experi-
ment Station, at the tenth annual meeting of
the Peninsula Horticultural Society at Milford,
Del. In the course of his paper he said -

Every bud on a tree produces an offspring
which can be distinguished from every other oil
spring, just as every seedling. The distinction
between a seedling variety and the fruits produced
on a single tree lies only in the degree of differ-
ence between them. The reason for this is, that
no two trees or no two lmds on a tree exist in
exactly the same conditions of life. The tree
should be considered not as a single individual,
but as a collection of individuals, with the hud
as the imit. Among the many individuals, or
buds, on the tree, there is the most intense
struggle for existence. Some buds receive more
light, more air, more room in which to grow
and expand, and more plant food, and from
these unequal conditions there result strong
branches, weak branches, long branches, short
branches, and dead branches. In fact, no two
branches are ever alike, because no two are
placed in exactly the same conditions.

In the same way, no two fruits are ever
produced exactly alike, because the buds from
which they come and the conditions in which
they develop are always slightly different. So
it happens that in an Blberta Peach-tree the
fruits will be large or small, roundish or
pointed, highly coloured or pale, or some other
peculiarity distinguishes one Peach from every
other Peach.

This variation existing in the buds of a tree
is one of the most important principles under-
lying all vegetable life, and is particularly
important in horticultural operations, because
the variations which are manifest in the buds of
a plant are transmitted through propagation.

The practical fruit-grower knows that some
trees never bear, that some trees occasionally
bear, and that some trees always bear. Fur-
ther if he were to examine the branches of a
single tree through a series of years, he would
find the same phenomenon pertaining to
individual branches.

I have in mind a Currant plantation which
contains some 10,000 bushes of Fay's Prolific,
which came directly or indirectly through cut-
tings from twenty-five Fays, purchased at 1 dol,
each some ten or twelve years ago. The original
bushes were uniform in size, and heavy bearers.
As the Fay Currant was one of the best varie-
I ies extant twelve years ago, and the plants were
scarce, the cheapest way to secure a plantation
was to take cuttings from a few bushes. In the

haste for a large number of plants, the new
wood was cut from these bushes every fall.
When more bushes were established, they were
divided into cuttings as fast as new wood was
made. Little attention was paid to the bearing
capacity of the bushes in the second generation,
from which the cuttings were taken, because
the original twenty-five were exceptionally
heavy bearers. The result at the present time
is 12,000 Fays, some of which are tremendous
bearers, others light bears, while still others
produce no fruit at all.

The question arises, how could this condition
have happened if there is not the widest variation
in bearing tendencies in the buds of the Fay Cur-
rant? It may be answered, that the soil in which
the plants grew was the immediate cause of these
wide variations in the Fay plantation. But tin- is
not true, as the soil is uniform and in a high state
of culture, aud the Fay is au uncertain bearer
everywhere. The explanation, it seems to me, is
not difficult to understand. When the Fay was
first introduced, every Currant-grower wanted
lav and it was necessary for the propagators to
use all the available wood produced, without refer-
ence to the bearing. habit or constitution of the
bushes from which the wood was taken. Now, if a
hundred cuttings are taken from a bush that
seldom bears, we have simply started 100 new
hushes with a similar tendency; and if 111;) are
taken from a hush that always hears, the bearing-
habit is likely to be transmitted to the new bushes.
If the differences in the buds of a tree can lie
propagated by grafting or budding, or by other
means, then here is a principle on which to begin
the systematic improveineut of existing varieties.
The propagator has only to form a clear idea of the
type of Baldwiu or !Spy Apples he desires, and then
to select through each generation buds from branches
which hear Baldwins or Spys approaching his ideal.
There are numerous examples of bud variations in
the various strains of Baldwins, Greenings, or
Crawfords. These strains are simply bud variations
induced by climate or other causes. In Virginia
the Albemarle or Newtown Pippin differs from the
New York Newtown. In Oregon the Apple has
slight ridges around the stem, and the fruit is
oblong in form ; while in New South Wales, the
ridges are so pronounced that the Apple is called
the Five Crowned Pippin.

Horticulture in its variety making and improving
is not founded on any law which assures improve-
ment iu the organic world. Nature builds up her
types gradually, but all the more surely, by the
selection iu each generation of variations which give
the survivors some slight advantage over the indi-
viduals already existiug. This process has been
called by Darwin, 'Natural Selection;' by
SPENCER, 'The Survival of the Fittest;' aud
recently by Prof. Bailey, ' The Survival of the
Unlike,' all of which are synonymous expressions.

Yet we are constantly endeavouring to build up
horticulture in the very way that Nature condemns,
namely, through the promiscuous production of new
forms or new seedlings. A seedling variety is dis-
covered, not produced. It is not founded on a law
of organic progress. A bushel of seed is sown, but
the sower can only hope for something good to
turn up. He never knows that an improved variety
will appear, nor has he reason to expect it, because
the operatiou rests on the element of chance, not on
the laws of plant evolution.

I do not wish to condemu the production of seed-
lings from judicious crosses of selected parents,
because in that process are included the intelligence
of the operator aud a knowledge of the laws of plant-
crossiug ; but I do want to emphasise the fact that
Horticulture is old enough now to rest on definite
laws of its own, and that those laws should act in
conformity with the principles underlying the
evolution of the vegetable kingdom.

It seems strange that the slight differences which
appear in the lmds of a tree should not have formed

the basis for the systematic improvement of orchard
varieties.

Horticulturists have never made a systematic
attempt to improve a variety after it once appears,
or even to maiutaiu its standard of excellence, for
improvement has ever been looked for through new-
varieties. The present system of propagating fruits
in the nursery or on the farm, as followed by most
fruit-growers, tends to deteriorate a variety. Buds
are selected from bearing trees or non-bearing trees,
or from nursery trees. The effect in every case is
to transmit the tendency already existing in the
bnd to the new tree, and as a result there are
orchards scattered all over the couutry in which are
many trees, that, even with the highest culture,
will not pay the interest on the land they occupy.
Nine orchards in every ten have been propagated with
no more care in selecting the buds from wdiich the
trees came than was exercised in the propagation of
the Fay's plantation already mentioned. On a large
fruit farm with which I have been connected, this
principle is considered so important that every young
orchard is top-worked with buds from trees which
have shown a bearing habit for years."

SNOWDROPS.

THESE favourite dowers of the earliest period of
the year have come with their wonted freedom of
bloom ; they are ever attractive, whether grown in
the grass, where they look their best, or in the
border or rock-garden. They have a copious lite-
rature nowadays, aud were one. to begin with
quotations from the poets, it would be difficult to
make a selection. One is not at this time disposed
to treat of these chaste flowers from other than a
gardening point of view, and without reference to
their place in literature. I have recently spoken of
the autumnal varieties of Galanthus nivalis, so that
these do not require to be mentioned further at
present.

The varieties of Galanthus Elwesii are very
handsome, and it says much for the peculiarities of
places that some find this fine Snowdrop do very
indifferently in their gardens. G. Elwesii varies
very much in its different habitats, and some
collected plants are inferior in size to the ordinary
( ialanthus nivalis ; while others, again, are greatly
superior. The writer has previously spoken of Mr.
Whittall's new Giant variety, and he can only add
to what has already appeared by saying that it far
surpasses in vigour anything of its kind. In growing
it, it will he found that a rather strong soil, not too
dry, will give finer results. The writer does not
find G. Elwesii any more subject to the destructive
fungus, which works such havoc among collections
of Snowdrops, than any other species, so that he
hopes to be able to grow this giant variety for long.

The Cassaba variety, which is one of great beauty,
has, however, nearly all disappeared ; and G. E.
unguiculatus has also suffered considerably— while
other and weaker-looking stocks have been un-
affected. I think the varieties of G. caucasicus,
including O. Alleni, are particularly subject to the
attack of this mildew. So far as I know, we have
no remedy for this scourge of the Snowdrop, and one.
is grieved to see it make its appearance year after
year. I understand that gardens in low-lying
situations are more subject to it than others in a
more elevated and airy position.

Another Snowdrop, which is well worthy of
extended growth, is G. plicatus ; but this has,
unfortunately, a bad habit of dying off without
apparent cause. One does not usually see in this
species the presence of the mildew which attacks
the others, hut it is not very satisfactory other-
wise. The Straffan variety, which is the one
mentioned by the Rev. David R. Williamson in the
Gardener*' Chronicle of February 18, is more robust
than the type.

Some fine Snowdrops raised between G. plicatus
and G. nivalis are in cultivation. Among these I
should place a handsome Snowdrop named G.
plicatus Fraseri ; this is a good grower, with large

*#

loll

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 4, 1899.

flowers, ami with partially plicate foliage. I have
several other Snowdrops between U. plicatus and

G. nivalis. Some of these were raised by the late
Mr. Wm. Thomson, of High Blantyre, Lanarkshire,
and among his are a few of remarkable beauty.

The Rev. C. Wolley-Dod speaks highly of Galan-
tlms Imperati, the fine Italian Snowdrop, which is,
however, not so free from fungus with me as it is at
Edge Hall. The finest form of this Snowdrop is
that known as Atkinsii, which has, at times, the
defect of showing an additional segment, which
gives the flower a peculiar appearance when fully
open. There is something quaint and peculiar-
looking in Galanthus Scharloki, with its divided
spathe and green-tipped flowers. Among other
rare bulbs I have had from Mr. Allen are some
seedlings from Scharloki, all giving flowers bearing
some resemblance to those of the type, but differing
also to some extent.

Galanthus byzantinus, apparently a natural
hybrid between G. plicatus and G. Elwesii, is
variable in flower and leaf ; the flowers generally
resemble Elwesii, but the leaves are more or less
plicate. This Snowdrop has no more immunity
from the fungus than any other I have.

Galanthus ikaria? is a very ornamental Snowdrop,
with its broad arching, bright-green leaves, and its
white flowers. When the latter first appear, the
leaves have not attained their full length, and it is
only afterwards that this Snowdrop shows its full
character and beauty. It may well be placed
among those of the highest rank ; it is better and
hardier than what is usually known as G. latifolius.

Some of Mr. James Allen's seedling Snowdrops
are very beautiful. One understands a good many
of them to be from G. nivalis, but in a number
there is probably a strain of some of the other
species. Among these seedlings, I think none can
surpass Magnet, whose large flowers hanging lightly
from their long pedicel look remarkably graceful
and pretty. Valentine is another pretty flower ;
and Aurora, besides being early, is of good form
and habit. Those of us who have raised Snowdrops
from seed can alone realise how small is the pro-
portion of flowers equal to those named.

The yellow-marked Snowdrops are few in number,
scarce, and, unfortunately, not too robust. Both
of the known single varieties, G. lutescens and G.
flavescens, were found by that indefatigable grower,
Mr. W. B. Boyd, in Northumberland gardens ; the
latter is the more robust and brighter of the two.
Last year I had flowers sent me of a double yellow
variety, which was growing in a garden in Cheshire :
the ovary and markings, as in the cases of G.
lutescens and G. flavescens, were yellow. I had
afterwards, through the kindness of the owner of
the garden, some bulbs sent me, but they are not
yet open, and from their appearance I have some
doubt whether they may not have returned to the
normal green of the markings.

One has by no means exhausted the subject, but
possibly it may be well to conclude with a reference
to the double varieties. A noteworthy addition
to these has been Mr. Allen's Charmer, a large
flower, very double, and with fine outer segments ;
this is quite distinct from the ordinary double
form. Another seedling with double flowers has
not yet bloomed here, but it will, one hopes, give
us its flowers in a few days. These varieties of
the Snowdrop do much to enhance our garden
pleasures, aud show us how the simplest flower
may be altered by patience, skill, and care.
S. Arnott, Carseihorn-by-Dumfries, N.B.

A PRUNING COMPETITION.

The competition took place on February 16, at
Woodsfield Farm iua 10-acre orchard of flourishing
youug standard Apple and Pear-trees, about ten
years planted, aud as this special farm had been in
hand some years, the trees were in fair condition.

Two classes were arranged, class A being for
farm hands only ; class B open to all ; prizes of
20s., 10.-.., and 5s. being offered in each class; the
couditious being: — "To the person who shall

prune with knife, saw, chisel, or other suitable tool,
in not more than three hours, four young trees, in
the best manner. Time also to be considered."
Unsuccessful competitors to receive la. each.

The trees were previously selected, as nearly equal
in size as possible, by an appointed steward —two
Apple and two Pear-trees for each competitor, with
numbered cards attached, in consecutive order,
corresponding numbered cards being prepared and
kept for balloting purposes.

Sixteen competitors answered to the roll-call.
The ballot took place, each competitor drawing a
card, which identified his lot of trees. At a given
signal, each primer commenced his task, and as
soou as he had finished his work, he returned his
identification card to the steward, who registered
the time received, the card being ultimately handed
over to the judges for point value. The judges
carefully watched the pruners at work, summing
up at the finish. Various styles of pruning were
adopted, aud the primitive chisel was in evidence
in one case.

The judges appointed were Messrs. Coleman of
Eastnor, and Ward of Stoke Edith ; the former,
through indisposition, being unable to attend, Mr.
Mullins, of Eastnor, was substituted. The work
of many was of superior character, and no little
difficulty was found in making the awards, and
extra prizes had to be granted in both classes.
Some of the competitors were in too great hurry to
finish, and did not take sufficient pains for neat,
skilful work ; others, again, failed to smooth the
saw cuts. < me gratifyiug feature was that nearly all
the prizes were taken by comparatively youug men
— those who had closely followed up the instruc-
tions given at the Club's demonstrations and
lectures.

The event created considerable interest through-
out the radius of the organisation, and a goodly
number of anxious spectators watched the pro-
ceedings throughout, and waited to hear the results.

James Lea took 1st in class A ; 2nd, A. H. Chew.
J. Bosworth took 1st in class B ; 2nd, H. H. Peel.
After so successful an experiment, doubtless the
competition will be repeated and extended in future.

It should be mentioned that the Club awards
prizes for the best-cultivated gardens, also for
allotments, hedging, ploughing, mowing, reaping,
rick-building, Hop-pole pitching, and stringing,
sheep-management, long-service, and other rural
pursuits; besides which, an annual show of agri-
cultural and horticultural productions is held, and
10,0(10 personsatteuded last year'sshow. W. Crump,
Madn <fiahl Court.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

CATTLE YA TRIAN.El WEST HANK
HOUSE VARIETY.

So remarkable is this brightly-coloured Variety
that the suggestion has been made independently
by several orchidists who have seeu it that it is a
natural hybrid between C. Triansei and C. Wars-
cewiczii, and the striking resemblance which it
bears to some of the forms of C. x Hardyaua gives
reasonable excuse for the suggestion, though com-
bination in wild specimens is not generally sup-
posed to be possible. Nevertheless, the flower
kindly sent by the owner of the plaut, J. Leemann,
Esq., West Bank House, Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr.
Edge), bears a considerable resemblance to the
garden hybrid Cattleya x Ballantiniana (Triansei x
Warscewiczii) described by Professor Reichenbach
in the Gardeners' Chronicle, March 2, 1889, espe-
cially in the peculiar form of the lip, its wavy
margin, and the rich colour of the whole flower.
The sepals, petals, side-lobes, and margin of the
lip are bright purplish-rose, the disc orange coloured,
aud the front-lobe of that dark velvet-like ruby-
crimson seen in Cattleya x Hardyana, to which
the whole flower bears a resemblance.

L.fiLIo -C.UTLEVA X GOTTOIANA.
Occasionally a plant of this pretty natural hybrid
is imported with Ladia tenebrosa and Cattleya

labiata, between which it is doubtless a natural
hybrid. No two of the plants imported have borne
flowers alike, and even iu their form there is
variation. A flower of a very finely-coloured
variety of it, in shape approaching closely a good
form of Ladia tenebrosa, is sent by J. Leemann,
Esq., West Bank House, Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr.
Edge). The sepals and petals are rose coloured,
with a yellowish tinge iu the lighter parts, the lip
bright, light purple, with dark crimson reining,
extending from the base, the portion in front of
the column bearing on each side an oval blotch of
primrose-yellow.

Ol>ONTOGLOSSr/M Sanderianum.

This pretty species was described by Reichenbach.
who asserted that it was related to O. nevadens?,
but our later experience of the plant in gardens
shows that it is a singular compound of O. co -.-
strictum and O. gloriosum, approaching the formsr
species in some characteristics of its flowers, aud the
latter in their larger size and the more erect
growth of the inflorescence. A pretty example of
the flower has been sent to me by Mr. Gamete,
gr. to R. G. Fletcher, Esq., Mount Harry, Witli-
dean, Brighton. These flowers measure 2i inches
at their widest part ; the ground colour is pile
yellow, with showy red-brown markings, and the?
lip is white, with one purple blotch iu the front
of the callus. J. OB.

ORCHIDS AT GLEBELANDS,
SOUTH W( )ODF< >RD.

The fine collection of Orchids formed by
J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., shows remarkable pro-
gress. Two new Orchid-houses, beside a large
orchard-house, are in course of construction. The
varieties of Ladia anceps have grown well, and
bloomed profusely, some of them, such as L. a.
Stella, L. a. Sanderiana, L. a. Schroderiana, &c.,
are still in bloom. Cattleya citriua thrives iu the
same house with these, and many of the old plants
are well set with flower-buds. Iu the same house
are two fine specimens of Dendrobium Wardianum,
covered with blossoms. A number of large speci-
mens of varieties of Oelogyne cristata, and forms
of Ladia albida are flowering finely.

In an adjoining span-roofed warm-house aro
grown the choicest of the Cypripediums, several
stroug plants of C. Lawrenciannm Hyeanum, C.
callosum Sanderse, and mauy rare hybrids, named
and unnamed, were remarked. In bloom are the
fine C. x Miss Louisa Fowler (Chamberlamiauum
x iusigue var. ), recently shown by Mr. J. Guruey
Fowler, which is the most haudsome of the C.
Chamberlaiuiauum crosses ; C. x Chamberlaino-
Leeanum, pretty, but not so showy as the former ;
C. x Chapmani, a fine C. Rothschildianum with
two flower-spikes, C. x Lathamianum, C. x God-
seffianum, C. x A. R. Smith, C. x Lord Derby
some pretty plants of C. bellatulum, C. coucolor,
and others of the class, all of which do well here.
The collection of Selenipediums was remarked
growing strongly, and sending up numerous flower-
spikes.

A number of varieties of Cypripedium insigne, of
which there is a good collection, were noted in an
intermediate-house; C. i. Saudene, which is grow-
ing strongly, is one that is much prized. In the
same house a collection of Cymbidiums is grown,
aud one very vigorous plant of the finest form of C.
Tracyanum ; stroug specimens of C. Lowianum,
promising well for bloom, and the first of the C.
graudirlorum, furnished with a stroug flower-spike,
the flowers of which have not expauded, as is
usual with it when flowering iu the winter, were
remarked.

The range of span-roofed houses coutains a col-
lection of hybrid Ladias and Ladio-C'attleyas, some
of which have not yet flowered. The Veitchian
hybrids of Ladia Perrini, wdiose beautiful flowers
appear in the winter, are favourites, as are also
Cattleya x Mantiui nobilior, C. x Miranda, Ladio-
( lattleya x Nysa aud its varieties ; C. x Lady
Rothschild, and other crosses of C. aurea. Of C,

March 4, 1899.]

THE GAR BE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

131

aurea itself there are some nice healthy specimens,
as likewise of other species, the floral display being
chiefly clue to forms of C. Trianiei, one specimen of
which, about 4 feet across, is bearing a large quan-
tity of flowers. Some excellent C. Percivaliana,
and a few others were in flower.

In the adjoining division a magnificent plant of
Vanda Sanderiana stands on the middle stage, which
was once shown with the unequalled number of
twelve flower-spikes, bearing altogether 137 flowers.
The plant was not allowed to carry flower last year,
and this year it shows great vigour. Near it a
noble specimen of Aracbnanthe (Vanda) Lowi, in
splendid condition, was noticed ; and on the side-
stage is a small collection of species of Phalae-
nopsis, all of which have been reared from small
imported plants. They have steadily increased iu
strength. Eecently they were removed from a
small house, in which they had long been grown,
and for some time Mr. Davis, the gardener at
Glebelands, was anxious about them ; but they
are now safely over the dangerous period. The
same remark applies to a number of Miltonia
Eoezli, which were removed at the same time,
which are now iu spleudid conditiou, and showing
finely for flower. Other notable plants in quan-
tity consist of La-lia harpophylla, which thrives at
Glebelands ; some vigorous Miltouia vexillaria, and
a fine collection of Odontoglossuros, which are
housed very commodiously.

It may be said here that Mr. .1. Gurney Fowler,
besides an enthusiastic Orchid amateur, is much
interested iu Hoses and fruit-growing, both indoors
and out ; and in these and other matters, his
gardener is very successful.

MUSHEOOMS SPOILED BY MOULD.

That nameless pest to cultivated Mushrooms,
referred to by Mr. Page, and described at some
length by Dr. M. C. Cooke, on p. 01 of the
Gardeners' Chronicle of January 28, has been
familiar to the cultivators of the Mushroom iu
Britain for many years. It has played havoc with
many promising crops, particularly iu conlined
places, where the air remains stagnant aud at an
even temperature for weeks, or months on end,
such as iu underground cellars, and badly -con-
structed Mushroom-houses, as well as in caves and
tu mels, in which the atmosphere is seldom moved
by a current of fiesh air. Iu places like these,
where the air is practically stagnant, and main-
taiued in the close muggy condition, which is
popularly supposed to be the best for the culture
of the Mushroom, if the mouldy pest once gets a
settlement it rapidly multiplies, and the atmos-
phere becomes so contaminated with its spores,
germs, filaments, or whatever term they may bo
known by, that it requires the adoption of extreme
measures to clear the place of its malignant influ-
ence, aud sweeteu the air so that Mushrooms may
again thrive in it.

It is true, that Mushrooms cau be growu to per-
fection for a time in a close aud slightly moist
atmosphere, in places almost hermetically sealed
from the fresh air of open day ; but sooner or later
some fungoid disease, or pest, breaks out, ruius
the crop, and causes uo end of trouble and expense
before Mushrooms can be agaiu grown in such air-
contaminated places. The doors by which they
are entered are often the only means of ventilation,
aud they are invariably kept closely shut wheu the
person in charge is not passing in or out, until the
atmosphere becomes as foul, if not so evil-smelling,
as that of the notorious " Black Hole of Calcutta ! "
The natural earth-heat is generally sufficient to
maintain those places at a temperature suitable for
the growth of Mushrooms, aud no artificial heat is
applied to raise the temperature aud at the same
time cause a movement in the air, nor is a venti-
lator opeued to allow the foul air to escape, and
fresh, clean air, to euter. Such are the places in
which the mould-pest is found doing its work with
deadly effect.

In properly constructed Mushroom-houses, effi.

ciently heated and ventilated, so that fresh air cau
be regularly admitted, low down aud close to the
heating-apparatus, without causiug cold draughts,
and the vitiated atmosphere allowed to escape,
through ventilators near the roof, the pest will
seldom, if ever, appear. Should it, however, put
in aa unwelcome appearance, it can be extermi-
nated by clearing out all the materials of the
Mushroom-beds, aud thoroughly cleaning the house
by the usual means, to destroy any germs that
may be lurking about. A strong, dry heat, should
then be raised by the heating-apparatus, to cause a
free circulation of air iu the house, which will be
effectually purified thereby iu a few days. With
clean, fresh materials, that have been carefully
prepared and kept from being contaminated by the
mouldy old beds, new beds may be made up imme-
diately, which will produce vigorous crops free from
disease, and remain clean and productive for the
natural term of their existence.

In the meadows where the Mushroom grows
naturally iu the open air, the mould is very rarely
met with, or it may generally be traced to culti-
vated Mushrooms iu the near neighbourhood. Its
appearance on the open-air beds is mainly due to
the same vitiating causes as those which induce it
in close cellars and other confined spaces. The
straw litter, mats, and other materials used for
covering the beds, maintain the air on their surface
in a stagnant condition, and if the mould-pest or
its germs are about, they soon find their way to
the delicate Mushrooms just bursting through the
soil, insert their threads in them, aud the fungus-
infested Mushroom quickly becomes a rotten mass.
For a while, mauy of the Mushrooms may escape
attack, anil grow to a full size, perfectly clean and
wholesome ; but eventually, as the materials of the
bed become exhausted aud the crop weakened,
every Mushroom will be cut off with the disease.
The remedy in this case is to thoroughly char or
burn the mould-infested materials to get rid of the
germs, and move the site of the open-air bed to a
clean spot, as far from the old one as may be
practicable aud convenient.

A notable instance of the virulence of the dis-
ease, when once it has got firmly established in a
medium suitable for its development, has been in
evidence for the past few years in the extensive
Mushroom -growing establishment in Edinburgh,
where its ravages have caused much loss to the
enterprising managers, and the pest has till now
completely baffled erery practicable means to ex-
tirpate it. In the disused Scotland Street tuunel
of the North British Railway, running northward
from the Waverley station at a considerable depth
below the streets of the new town, the proprietors
have carried on the culture of the Mushroom for
more than a dozen of years with great success.
Marvellous crops of the finest Mushrooms were
gathered and marketed from the beds in the tunnel,
until the mould pest made its appearance within
the last few years ; and although the Mushrooms
are produced as abundantly as ever, they are soon
attacked by the fell disease, and utterly ruined for
auy useful purpose.

On the occasion of a recent visit, it was sad-
dening to see the wreck the disease was making
of the splendid crops of Mushrooms coming on in
succession along the whole length of the tunnel.
Entering from the north, or Scotland Street end, a
line of railway runs up the left side, and the Mush-
room-beds occupy the largest half of the breadth of
the tunnel on the right. They are formed across
the space, with a foot clear between them for
workiug, and of a uuiform size and shape, about
:! feet wide at the base, aud 1 foot 6 inches wide at
the top, and about 2 feet '.i inches high. They are
made of well-prepared droppings, collected from
cavalry and livery stables, with the long litter
shaken out of them. The droppings, when ready,
are firmly packed inside a wooden frame of the
shape of the bed, but without top or bottom — a
speedy method of making up the beds, aud the
sloping sides allow the frame to be easily lifted off
when the job is finished. When the beds arrive at

the proper temperature they are spawned, and
then covered with about an inch of fresh earth in
a moiat, but not wet, state, and beateu smooth and
firm, in the usual manner, with the back of a spade.
They are then covered over with a few inches in
depth of the long stable litter shaken out of the
horse-droppings, which remains upon the bed until
the first of the crop is ready to gather. In the close,
moist atmosphere and even temperature of the
tunuel the beds keep their moisture for a loner
time, and seldom require to be watered, They
begin to bear in from four to six weeks, and when
they escape the mouldy disease, they go on for
months producing heavy crops of Mushrooms, noted
in the market for their thickness of flesh and high
quality. When the mould-pest is about, it begins
its ravages within a week or two, and spreading
rapidly over the crop, it soon renders the Mushrooms
utterly worthless.

The beds in bearing were seen literally white
with Mushrooms, although the sound crop is
gathered every day for market ; and even where
the crop was attacked by the mould, aud converted
into a morbid mass of diseased and rotten Mush-
rooms, a few vigorous stragglers were pushing their
heads through the diseased and decaying mass, aud
developing into fine specimens, perfectly sound,
and free from all signs of the disease— a notable
instauce of "the survival of the fittest '." The pro-
prietors have tried hard by every available means to
eradicate the pest, cleaning and whitewashing, at
much cost, the whole tunnel (about 12110 yards louc,
8 yards wide, aud (3 yards high, substantially built
of brick aud dressed ashlar), but with no permanent
or satisfactory result.

Sulphur fumes and Howcrs-of -sulphur, which are
generally fatal to fungoid organisms, were em-
ployed, and other so-called "remedies" wereapplied
to the droppings, soil, surface of the beds, and the
air, floor, and walls of the tunuel, but all were of
little service in lessening the attacks of the pest.
It might be weakened for a short time, but it has
always broken out again as virulently as ever, as soon
as the air in the tunnel assumed its normal stag-
nant condition. The tuunel is on an incline of about
one in seveuty-five, but the only ventilation is at
the ends, which makes the process of clearing out
the vitiated air all the more difficult. The pro-
prietors have, therefore, now resolved to clear out
everything from the tunnel, and to thoroughly clean
it, and allow it to lie fallow, to purify the air,
for a couple of seasons, in the hope that they may
be able at the eud of the period to again secure fine
crops of sound Mushrooms.

In the meantime, they have acquired the use of
the tunnel through Dundee Law, formerly used by
the Dundee and Newtyle Railway, in which to
carry ou their business ; and it is proving as great a
success for the purpose as the Edinburgh tunuel
was before the appearance of the disease in it.
The result of the extreme measures adopted by tin-
Messrs. Paton to clear the Edinburgh tunuel of the
fungoid infection will be watched with deep interest
by all concerned in the culture of the Mushroom.
What are our cryptogamists doing, who have so
long neglected to solve the life-history of this
inveterate foe to the Mushroom? Shall we have to
go to German scientists for its history aud name '!
/>. J/., February 8. [When the Mushroom-growers
cau afford to adopt the methods advised by the
cryptogamists, aud dispense with the foul materials
they at present employ, then they will be able to
grow Mushrooms without admixture of other
fungi. Ed.]

Continental Novelties.

« —

Messrs. Herb k WfLLE, of Naples, offer a series
of new hybrid Centaureas, under the name of Ceu-
taurea imperialis (Hort. Herb.). C. imperialis is
stated to be a cross between the violet C. mosehata
and the white C. Margarita1. The plants are alleged
to attaiu a height of 5 feet, aud to produce sweet-
scented flowers of varying shades of colour. These

182

THE GA R DENE It 8' CHR ONICL E

[March 4, 1899.

last iu a cut state for tea days, so that the plants
are very serviceable for decorative purposes. The
same firm also announces the issue of Tomato
Wonder of Italy, which produces dense clusters of
oblong cylindric fruits of a red colour.

Messrs. V. Lbmoinb et fils, Nancy, offer various
novelties among Abutilons, Fuchsias, zonal Pelar-
goniums, Pentstemons, Petunias, and Verbenas.
They also describe a form of Glyceria spectabilis,
with pale yellow stripes to the leaves.

Pear Prat Louise Goethe.
A new variety, raised from a pip of Bergamotte
d'Esperen, in the Horticultural School of Geisen-
heiin iu 18S2, and fruited at that establishment in
1S89 for the first time. It is described as being an
excellent winter Pear, keeping good till March.
The tree is fertile, aud bears Bergamotte-shaped
fruits 3J inches high, and 3J inches iu lateral
diameter. The rind is thick, coarse, dark green,
aud covered with fine warts, becoming a clouded
yellow when ripe, with russetty patches. The flesh
is clouded yellow, sometimes salmou - coloured,
juicy, sweet ar-omatic, with an aroma reminiscent of
the Orange. Figured in the Bericht der Geinen-
Immtr Lekranstalt for 1897-98.

Pear Doyenne a Cinq Fans.
Raised by M. Herault, and described in the
Pomologie Francaise as a cross between Duchess
of Bordeaux aud Winter Doyenne, effected in 1S79.
The tree is of regular growth, vigorous, aud very
fertile ; the fruit 2| inches high, and broad, smooth,
yellow rind, spotted and flecked with fawn. It is
ripe in October and November. The flesh is fine,
melting, juicy, sweet, with an aroma of Pelargo-
niums. "Wiener Illu&trirte Garten Zeitmig," for
January, 1890.

SPONTANEOUS HYBEIDS.

In the flower-garden at Edge Hall weeding is
performed with great discrimination, and a large
proportion of self - sown seedlings is allowed to
grow to maturity. As a cousequence of this many
spontaneous hybrids have sprung up in the course
of years, about which it is proposed to give some
particulars. By hybrids, I mean plants produced
by the crossing of distinct species ; but in adopting
this definition, 1 must observe that there are some
cases where plants considered only varieties of the
same species refuse to cross, and other cases where
species, reputed to be distinct, are so closely allied
that the result of their crossing can hardly be called
a hybrid.

It has sometimes beeu suggested that new
species owe their origin to hybrids ; but careful
observations have not been recorded sufficiently
long to confirm or to refute this theory. -It must
be assumed, however, that to make a species, a
plant must be able to reproduce itself constant to
the parents from seed ; and I have never yet
found a true hybrid capable of doing this. Many
hybrids are entirely barren, others are sparingly
fertile ; but then the progeny of these from seed
is never coustant ; they often revert to one or
other parent in two or time- generations, causing
the suspicion that seed when produced by a hybrid
is the result of fertilisation by one of the parents.
In other cases tin seed of hybrids produces an
ever-varying race ; but none of these varieties have
ever proved capable of being fixed so as to repro-
duce a constant race — at least, I have never seeu
one so capable, or received authentic information
of one. It is true that I have found some closely-
allied species having distinct and perhaps distant
geographical areas, which, when cultivated together,
seem to coalesce from seed into one, varying in
its characters between the two, and retaining its
fertility without definitely revertiug to either. 1
may mention as instances Scilla nutans ami S.
hispanica, Papaver orientale and P. bracteatuin.
Inula Hookeri and I. glaudulosa, Chrysanthemum
maximum and C. pallens, aud several Campanulas
of the rotuudifolia group. But the differences

between these crossed varieties are not greater than
are frequently found within the limits of a species.
It seems to me far more in accordance with ob-
served facts to believe with Darwin that a species
gradually changes in long periods by natural selec-
tion of the fittest individuals within itself than to
refer the origin of new species to the hybridisation
of dissimilar plants.

It may be asked, when I describe hybrids, how
do I know that they are hybrids, aud not varieties,
owing their abnormal characters to cultivation ? I
reply that in many cases these characters arc dis-
tinctly intermediate: in others, where I have no
doubt whatever about the seed-parent, the pollen -
parent declares itself by being almost exactly
reproduced in the hybrid, so that it could not be
recognised as a hybrid by casual observation. In
other cases, where the seed-parent is certain, the
pollen-parent is uncertain, because there may be
more than one likely to have produced the result.

It may be stated, as a general rule, that hybrids
follow the duration of life of the shorter-lived
parent ; annuals or biennials crossed with peren-
nials being annual or biennial ; but I shall notice
instances which seem to be exceptions.

As for the duration of the stock of a hybrid, I
have not attended long enough to the subject to
say much from personal experience. I believe the
date at which the well-known hybrid Lily called
L. testaceum was raised, is recorded. Some hybrids
show greater vigour of constitution than either of
their parents, whilst others are decidedly delicate,
and difficult to keep. As regards bulbs, the ten-
dency of Narcissus to form hybrids is well-known,
and I shall speak of their inconstancy from seed
later. Though thousands of seedliug Crocus come
in my garden, I have never seen a suspicion of a
hybrid. Mr. G. Maw, in his monograph, remarks
upon this characteristic. I may say the same of
Colchicum, some of which grow and mature from
seed here freely. Other plants which flower simul-
taneously side by side, yet seem always to come
true from seed saved at Edge, are all Anemones,
as A. alpina, and A. sulphurea (though thought to
be only varieties , A. blanda and A. uetnorosa. A.
hortensis and A. coronaria ; and so with some other
genera. Most of the hybrids I shall mention have
appeared spontaneously iu Edge garden ; but there
are others which I have cultivated for long, con-
cerning which I shall have something to say, espe-
cially iu the genus Campanula.

In speaking of the reasons agaiust supposing
hybrids to have been, the origin of new species, I
have not discussed the case of a fertile hybrid
taken from its surroundings and isolated. I have
never heard of such a case producing seed which
was true to the parent. At the same time, I have
known many instances in which wild varieties of a
colour different from the type have produced, when
isolated, many generations of seed constant without
a reversion to the typical colour. I have myself
had a wilderness full of white Malva moschata
(perennial), white Verbascum Blattaria (biennial),
and white Geranium Eobertianum, for twenty years,
though it might have been thought that the innate
tendency to assume the typical colour would some-
times have prevailed. C. W. Dod.
{To be conttin ued).

EARLY SWEET PEAS.

In tliis district in Scotland, it is impossible to
bloom Sweet Peas earlier than July ; aud in a late
season I have known it to be August before the
plants were in full bloom. By sowing seeds in pots
during January, however, and encouraging germi-
nation by a little warmth, I have known flowers
to be produced in May. I prepare about 30(1 pots,
the seeds being sown singly in the case of new \ ;i rie
ties, and the older sorts in triplets in 3-inch pots.
Where mice abound, it is necessary to cover the
pots with squares of glass until the seedlings are
well up, when the plants are removed to a cooler

house. I have occasionally repotted some into
6-inch, and again into 9-inch pots, and these produce
much stronger plants, and they are a little earlier
than those that are not re-potted. It is a commendable
practice to pursue where single plants are set out
iu borders, aud in small gardens where there is
Kilt little space, these single plants, one or two of
each variety, produce an enormous quantity of
flo wers of the finest quality.

The greater number of our plants are grown at
9 inches to 1 foot apart in lines. They not only
bloom early, but by constant cutting they continue
in flower until cut down by frost. When the earlier .
buds appear, the tip of the leading shoot is removed,
and a still earlier and finer bloom thus induced.
When the top of the sticks by which they are sup-
ported has been reached, the tips of the shoots are
again removed, and the rule is aways to check
upward growth. A large southern grower who
cultivates Peas under glass, told me he thought of
giving up their cultivation solely on account of
their rampant habit, aud when I mentioned close
pinching as a remedy, it was received as quite a
new idea.

The varieties of Sweet Peas in cultivation are
now very numerous, but I have had opportunities
of testing all the English varieties at present in
cultivation, and of the American sorts ; though I
have not grown them all, I have beeu able to
inspect every variety up to last year. For my own
part, I consider American introductions a long way
in the rear of the best of Mr. Eckford's varieties,
aud so leave them out. I still admire a few of the
older varieties, which for cutting are unsurpassed.
Of such I may mention Princess Beatrice, Prim-
rose, Orange Prince, Lady Beaconsfield, and
Couutess of Radnor, each of which, though small
iu size of bloom, are yet so beautifully coloured
that they are indispensable. The later large or
giant -flowered varieties, when well cultivated,
with their long flower-stalks and greater number
of flowers to a stalk, will, however, most gene-
rally command attention. A selection, comprising
those with bright colours and others of distinct
shades, will embrace Lady Mary Carrie, strong
habit and very bright flower, orange-pink in shade ;
Chancellor, somewhat lighter iu colour, and quite
distiuct ; Duke of Sutherland, a very telling
indigo-blue, shaded ; Prince of Wales, brighter
than Her Majesty, but not displacing the latter ;
Lady Nina Balfour, a peculiar grey-mauve, very
beautiful ; Lady Grisel Hamilton, by far the finest
of the light blue varieties. The seeds of the variety
last-named unfortunately belong to the type of
Couutess of Radnor, aud being difficult to ripen,
the seedlings come up sparingly. I am not quite
sure whether this variety is in commerce. Salo-
pian and Mars supersede all other red and crimson
varieties. The former is, I think, the better
variety. Queen Victoria, creamy, sometimes in-
clining to yellow, is vigorous, and possesses a very
large bloom aud long stalks ; Crown Jewels is of
the same type, but suffused with salmon ; Prima
Donna is in pink shades, perhaps the most lovely ;
Royal Rose is a deeper tint of pink, but not so
attractive. In Captivation we have one of the
most beautiful of the dark-coloured varieties. It
is impossible to describe the metallic lustre of the
rosy-purple flowers. It is also one of the wrinkled -
91 d type, and difficult to increase and even to
cultivate. Stanley is unsurpassed in the dark
maroon shade of colour which it possesses. Among
white varieties, Emily Henderson is a favourite
flower, the tint of greeu for which it is remark-
able being so pretty. Of the newer whites, Blanche
Burpee is now well knowu for its good qualities,
but Saidee Burpee is even better, the petals being
more stout, and the white more pronounced.
Duchess of Sutherland is so nearly white that it
may be here recommended for the pearly gloss of
its petals ; it is a very lovely flower. I will add
to those already named, Captain of the Blues; aud
though many fine varieties are left out of the above
list, it includes a very excellent selection. It. /'.
Brotherston, Dumfries.

March 4, 1899.]

THE CM B D E NE B-S' CHBO NI (JL E.

133

ADIANTUM FARLEYENSE VAR.
ALCICOENE.

Of the numerous hybrid varieties of Maiderhair

I'Vrus tlit re are few more interesting than the above,

teen years ago, and was tirst distributed by Messrs.
]!. Smith & Co., of Worcester. It would be
interesting to know how it first originated. There
is little doubt but that it is closely allied to
Farleyense, differing only iu having the pinnules

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Chinese Primroses, fringed - petalled varieties
;/-., ticole, February 10.

Ckinum i imbri mi m. ..]', riuiii.li with narrow whit
inents, deeply striped and suffused with rose; -
Fi i.ii i.irv- 11.

IUIASTCJ1 KARLEVEXSE VAR. ALCICORSE.

of which we give an illustration (fig. 51), from
fronds received from Mr. H. B. May, who exhibited
it at a recent meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society. Mr. May has grown it for a number of
years. We are unable to give its actual origin, but
it appears to have been introduced upwards of four-

cut down into unequal narrow segments, and like
the type it does not produce fertile fronds. Apart
from its distinct characteristics, it is worthy to be
included iu all collections on account of being the
only known variation of the most beautiful AdiantUUl
iu cultivation.

Fuchsia cor yhbiflora ; Ganleii, February 4.

Lobelia Rivoirei . n rosy-lilac-ilowered variet;
descendant of 1.. Gerardi, itself a cross between L carainalis
and L. syphilitica. Oi the numerous hybrids raised
this s;uni' original source, some are hardy in the
climate i if I j bus, othe] a are uiori tender ( ■
Chronicle, vol. xxiv.,p. Horthvle, Fcbruaryl.

Pasmiij.ua incarnata, ilecli .February.

134

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Mahch 4, 1S99.

The Week's Work.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,

Wrotham Park, Barnet.
Onions.— The main Onion crop should he sown
whenever the land is in a workable condition.
The ground for this crop should, whenever
possible, be manured and dug in the early
winter, aud if this was done, let the surface be
lightly dug over early in the morning ; when dry
enough, tread upon or roll, and afford a heavy
dressing of fresh soot, raking it in at once. the
drills may be drawn at 1 foot or less apart, and
half-an-iueh deep. If charred soil or garden
rubbish, or wood-ash, are available, the seed-drills,
after the seed is sown, may be partly tilled with one or
tbe other. In view of depredations by sparrows
and chaffinches, let the seed be damped, and then
shaken up with powdered red-lead. Although
the Onion does best in a tirm soil, some con-
sideration must be given to the nature of the soil,
not trampling it more than can be helped, or en-
deavour to give it a very smooth surface if it be
adhesive, as it will be sure to crack under sun-
shine, aud render a very early use of the hoe
necessary. If the laud is infested with the Onion-
maggot, the seed should be sown in boxes, aud the
young plants transplanted ; this method being the
best preventive.

Parsnips. —Let the ground for this crop be
selected for its great depth aud mellowness, and
let it be stirred about with digging-forks, and when
fairly dry make the surface level and smooth pre-
paratory to sowing the seed. The crop may be
grown in beds 4 to 6 feet wide, with alleys running
between, or the alleys may be discarded. The
seeds should be sown in drills less than 1 inch
deep and 16 inches apart, the seed being dropped
iu twos or threes at 8 to 12 inches apart in the
rows according to the variety, aud fill in the drills
lightly, making all smooth and neat. If extra
large roots are required, and soil is not all that one
could wish, make holes with a large dibber ; fill
these with a mixture of rich soil, and press a few
seeds into this, and cover. Tbe soil that is put
into tbe holes should lie made quite firm.

Celery.— Yot a very early supply, a piuch of seed
may now be sown in seed-pans, standing these in
mild heat. The main sowing should not be made
before the end of the present month. Sandriug-
bam White, Major Clark's, Sulham Prize, aud
Standard Bearer' are good varieties for present
sowing. Let the soil in the pans be moderately
rich, and the seed sown thinly on it, covering but
lightly with soil.

Brussels Sprouts.— A small sowing may be made
for furnishing plants for an early supply. A
variety that is productive of small solid sprouts is
preferable. The serd should be sown aud placed
in warmth of 50° to 60° to germinate, and when that
stage is reached, the seed-pans, without the least
delay, should be placed close to the glass, and kept
there for a week, and be then placed in a similar
position in a slightly less warm-house or pit, pricking
off the seedlings into boxes when two pairs of true
leaves are developed. They should be grown cool
in the later stages, aud duly hardened off before
being set out.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Go^pner to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.
Priming.— Where there are many shrubs in
great variety, it is necessary to commence the
pruning of these forthwith, and in order to do this
satisfactorily, each clump should be taken iu turn,
and the pruning finished so far as it may be at this
season. Evergreens such as Portugal and common
Laurels, Yew, Aucuba, Box, Phyllirea, Berberis
Aquifolium, aud other strong growing species,
require wheu of large size to be cut back more or
less annually, otherwise, they soon grow too big,
and encroach on weaker shrubs adjaceut, orassuming
the appearance of a hedge. The system I have
adopted here for years is to go round each shrub
carefully at this "season, and cut back, not too
closely, but sufficiently to keep each in symmetrical
form, and not to destroy the character of the plant.
Treated in this manner, shrubs get the full beuefit
of sunlight, and the shortening of the branches
prevents injury by heavy snowfalls. Berberis
stenophylla, B. Darwiui, B. duleis, and B. empetri-
folia, do not require to be pruued- much, if at all,

the strong shoots arching over, aud other shoots
grow out of them, and thus graceful bushes are
formed without any trouble. Flowering shrubs
such as Ribes. Spiraeas, Philadelphus, Weigela,
Hydrangea, Hypericums, and shrubby Honey-
suckles (Lonicera), are the better for being
pruned just before they go out of flower, or soon
after flowering. In regard to Laburnum (Cytisus),
Lilac, Gueldres Rose, Cerasus, aud Primus, tbe
youug flowering shoots die back after blooming, and
fresh flower-buds form or flower-shoots start from
tbe base of the old. Prunus Pissardi aud the
golden leaved Elders (Sambucus) make stronger
growths, and leaves of a finer colour wheu annually
cut back, leaving about 6 inches of the previously-
made wood. These plants should be left for a few
weeks longer, so that frosts may not injure the
pushing buds.

Re-planting. — Advantage may still be taken of
open weather to remove or transplant Rhododen-
drons, Ghent Azaleas, aud Azalea mollis, trenching
the ground, and adding fresh peat if necessary.
If the plants have grown very luxuriantly, let one-
fourth part of sandy loam be used. On planting
remove all growths protruding from the stock.
Should lime be present in tbe adjaceut soil, the
peat-beds should be raised above the general level,
so as to prevent water impregnated with lime
draining into the bed so as to damage the plants.
Plants dug up aud awaiting re-planting should be
well protected from the air. A mulch of decayed
cow-manure will be beneficial. Kalmia latifolia,
Perni'ttyas, Ledums, Menziesia, and Polygala pur-
purea are evergreen shrubs succeeding well in
peat-beds, aud looking well when mixed with the
deciduous Azaleas. Lichen growing upon Azaleas,
&c , will, if let alone, kill the branches, and even-
tually the entile plant. Where very abundant,
an endeavour should be made, by scrapiug aud
brushing, to get rid of it, finally washing the
branches with a weak solution of soft-soap, petro-
leum, and water. Other species that will grow iu
soil containing lime may be cleansed by white-
washing the steins aud branches.

Rosei. — The hardier climbing varieties may have
the old wood removed, aud the young wood laid
in, pretty nearly at full length, aud securely
fastened to the wall or fence. The yellow and
white Bauksian Roses should not be primed till
flowering is finished, when they should be primed
back hard iu order to obtain stroug flowering
growths fur the next year.

Litiums.— Bulbs of L. auratum and its variety, L.
a. platypbyllum, may be planted ; also the varieties
of L. lancifolium, L. loiigiflorum, L. speciosum, L.
tigrinuni, and L. superbiens. When not planted
apart, it is a good practice to plant between Rhodo-
dendron and Azalea bushes. Some bulbs planted
iu the month of February some years ago throw up
strong tlowerspikes annually ; these on arriving
were placed in small trays, aud covered with leaf-
mould, and when rooted they were planted in the
beds, with some pieces of rough turfy loam mixed
with the peat, and some silver-sand under each.

Bedding-plants.— Pot up siugly into 60-size pots,
autumn struck cuttings of Golden tricolor, Silver
tricolor, and Golden Bronze Pelargoniums, using
ordinary soil, and place them on a shelf near the
glass, slightly syriuge between pots to encourage
root-action, they will then keep the colour in the
leaves, and make bushy plauts by the end of May.
The best of tbe GoldeD tricolors are Mrs. Henry
Cox, Masterpiece, Mrs. Turner, and Lady Cullum.
Silver tricolors, Mrs. Laing, Eva Fish, and Silver
Wings. Golden bronze, Marechal MacMabon,
Zulu, and Bronze Queen. These are excellent
varieties for bedding, standing well the full rays of
the sun, and make compact borders to beds.

Pelargoniums.— The hardier green and silver-
variegated leaved varieties may soon be placed iu
cold frames to harden off, the gardener being guided
in the matter by the state of the weather. These
plants should then be shaken out of the boxes, the
roots bound in moss, and be planted in rows in the
sameframes. This is amuchless laborious method
than growing them in pots, much labour iu watering
being saved, and tbe plants are as good as those
at planting time. In preparing the frames, a bed
4 inches deep of not too rich a soil, should be placed
upon a layer of coal-ashes. The second week in
March is a good time for planting them.

Bidb-beds.— In times of frost the birds scratch
for food amongst the bulbs, and break off the
points, but if small shoots of Berberis Aquifolium

be stuck in among the bulbs, so as not injure
them, and round the sides of the beds, a stop will
be put to the mischief.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fif.lder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.
Antkuriums. — These plants should now be
repotted, turning them out of their pots, and care-
fully removing as much as possible of the old
material with a pointed stick, and not injuring the
roots in doing this. The compost— which should
be warmed before using— may consist of two parts
good fibry-peat broken into small lumps, one part
sphagnum-moss, one part loam, and sufficient broken
charcoal and saud to make and keep the compost
porous. The pots should be clean or new, and
thoroughly drained. Let the plants be kept rather
high in the pots, and work the compost firmly in
amoug the roots, rounding it off several inches above
the rim of the pot in order to encourage the growth
of roots from the stem. Place them iu a moist
position in the stove, affording copious supplies of
water duriug actual growth.

Caladiums and Aloeasiax. — These Aroids, which
should have been kept dry during the winter, may
now be started. Shake the old soil from the tubers,
placing these iu small pots in a compost consisting
of equal parts of peat, leaf -soil, aud fibry-loam, with
a good sprinkle of coarse sand. A little sphagnum-
moss and broken charcoal, or brick-rubble, may be
added to the soil used for Alocasias. After potting
the tubers, place them iu a moist house where a
minimum temperature of 6(1" is maintained, aud
afford sparingly of water till growth has begun.
"Wheu roots have been made iu quantity, repot into
larger pots, this time addiug one part rotten-manure
to the compost previously used. Pots 6 inches iu
diameter will be sufficiently large for ordinary
decorative purposes, but, if large specimens are
required, the plants should be afforded a subsequent
shift into Sor 10-inch pots, according to the strength
of the plauts. C. argy rites and other small foliagcd
varieties, should be grown only in small pots.
Propagation is effected by dividing the tubers, each
division having a bud, and these pieces should be
placed iu small pots. It is best to divide the tubers
aud lay them on a dry shelf iu the stove for a week
before they are potted, in order to allow the cut
surfaces to dry.

Tuberous Begonias. —A portion of the stock may
uow be potted. If the tubers have uot already beeu
turned out of the pots iu which they were grown
last season, that should now be done, shaking all
the old soil away from them. Place them in
small puts, which should only be sufficiently large
enough to admit of a little soil being placed around
the tuber. Afford a compost consisting of two parts
sandy loam, and one part leaf-soil, together with a
liberal allowance of sharp sand. In potting, keep
the top of the tuber somewhat above thesurfaie.
Place the potted tubers in a temperature of 50 ,
syriuging amoug the pots, and on flue days lightly
sprinkling the soil with the syriuge, which will
provide sufficient moisture until growth commences,
wheu the plants may be gradually afforded more
and more water. Ventilate freely, aud shade from
bright sun, and as soon as the plauts are well-rooted,
shift them into larger pots, this time just covering
the tubers with soil. A safe method of startiug
the earliest batch is to lay the tubers bottom
upwards in a shallow box upon a layer of leaf-soil
or cocoauut-fibre, spriukliug a little of the same
material among them, aud dew them over once a
day with the syriuge. They should be examined at
frequent intervals, and any that have commenced
to grow, place with the crown upwards, aud when
a sufficient mimber have started they may be potted
up. When started in this way a very small per-
centage of losses will occur, as the water is unable
to rest iu the hollows of the crowns.

Chrysanthemum* which are well rooted iu small
pots, should be transferred to 48's. The soil for
this potting should not be too rich, and good turfy
loam, leaf-soil, and sand, will be a suitable com-
post for the present. If the loam be heavy or stiff,
endeavour to render it porous by adding plenty of
coarse grit, such as river-sand, road-grit, or brick-
rubble ; but, if on the other hand the loam is very
light or sandy, add no saud to the compost. After
potting, place the plants in a cold pit or frame, and
shade lightly for a few days if signs of flagging
should appear. Water carefully, and air freely by
tilting the lights, and when the plauts are estab-
lished in the pots, remove the lights during tbe
day upon every favourable opportunity.

March 4, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

135

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashtou, Trowbridge.

Early Vinery. — The change from dull rainy wea-
ther to bright sunshine, and a clearer atmosphere,
has been helpful to Vines that were started early.
An increase of temperature, which is easily main-
tained in bright weather, should be supported at
night by fire-heat, to draw out the bunches to their
full length. During the flowering period keep the
atmosphere in the forenoon as buoyaut as possible,
to assist the settiug of the berries. Later in the
day and at night the usual atmospheric moisture
should be provided, by damping down of floor and
border surfaces, but discontinue syringing the
Vines themselves. Beyond shaking the rods at
midday, no other attention is required in the set-
tiug of early Hamburghs, &c. The necessary tyiug
down of the laterals must be governed by the dis-
tance of the trellis from the glass. At a proper
distance uo tying would be needed until the
bunches are set, but precaution should be taken
that the shoots are kept clear of the glass, other-
wise they will suffer from cold. A selection of the
best-placed laterals will have been made, and these
stopped at from one to three leaves beyond the
bunches, according to the space furnished by the
trellis and comparative closeness of the rods. Sub-
laterals as they advance should be kept to one hat,
so that the primary leaves get every advantage
fiom light aud air. The work of stopping the
laterals is best done by degrees, and without any
binding rule as to certain days, as early Vines do
not always break uniformly. Ouce they have been
stopped, a day should be set apart in every week
for the further stopping of sub-laterals, and for
tyiug down shoots. Where the hot-water pipes are
situated near the Vines, aud not raised much above
the soil, water will be needed around the pipes
more frequently than in other parts of the border,
and so soon as the bunches are set, a general water-
ing should be giveu with diluted liquid-manure.

Second Early Vines will now lie in an active state
of growth, requiring almost daily attention to the
work of disbudding. The weakest and ill placid
ones should be at once rubbed out, the remainder
carefully selected, so as to get a uniformity of
bunches. Laterals without a fruit bunch may be
stopped early, giving others the benefit of the
additional spine thus provided. By damping of the
Hoors with liquid-manure in the evening, the Vines
will derive much benefit from the ammonia-charged
atmosphere. While the foliage is tender it is safer
to employ only clear water during the day, or, at
any rate, while there is bright sunshine, the latter
sometimes causing a scorching of the foliage when
atmospheric ammonia is given off in an appreciable
volume.

Planting Vines. — Dormant canes can now be
planted iu borders made entirely inside or outdoors.
In the latter case, the rod has to pass through an
aperture in the front wall or woodwork, ami only
in a dormant state can this be done with safety.
Well protected with leaves and strawy litter, no
danger from cold or frost need occur after planting.
In neither case should water lie required, the soil
affording sufficient moisture for present require-
ments. Generally, the more satisfactory course is
to shake out or disentangle the priucipal roots, to
enable them to be spread out evenly in the border,
and if they are covered with a little tine soil, spe-
cially prepared, they will be stimulated to au early
aud healthy growth. No shortening of the canes
should be doue at this date, or bleeding will be at
once set up, which will subsequently be difficult to
suppress. The removal of the buds from the
extremity dowu to the point where they would
otherwise be pruned, would be better practice.
This will vary according to the strength of the
caue aud the position occupied. When planted
indoors, the front of the roof-trellis is sometimes
selected as the point at which to stop the rod, and
in such a case, all buds from the ground upwaids
to this point should be retained, and pinched later
at a length of two or three leaves. If the Vine be
planted in an outdoor border, disbud to a point
nearest the opening, or one conveniently placed for
the e isy training of the prospective shcot.

The Strawberry. — Those plants which are in
Hower should have the flowers pollinated with care
every day about noon, till it is seen that a number
sufficient for a crop is set. At such times ventila-
tion should be given, in order to render the
atmosphere of the forcing-house buoyant and some
what dry. A feather, camel's-hair pencil, &c, may

be used to carry the pollen to the stigmas. Plants
which have set a crop, may, after a time be afforded
stronger plant-food than water, such as much-
diluted guano-water. Before and after setting, the
foliage needs to be syringed twice daily, or red-
spider will soon appear on the leaves. Continue to
place plants iu heat according to the demand,
remembering that a fewer number of plants will
suffice than earlier in the year.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herein, Gardener to J. B. Fortescdb, Esq., Dropinore,
Maidenhead.
Protecting Peach ami Apricot Bloom. — Although

I am of the opinion that the blossoms of Peaches
and others are often unnecessarily covered, and
very frequently much sooner than is advisable, yet
it is well to have some means of protection ready
to hand for placing over the trees in case of a
sudden change from mild weather to severe frosts.
If the covering used be fixed , do not place it over
the trees before the first blossoms are partially
open. Gardens lying iu valleys or near water
suiter considerable disadvantage at this season, as
frost will affect the fruit-blossoms so much quicker
than in gardens in a high ami drier position. Each
season during the past ten the Peach crop here has
b 'ii i full one, aud during several seasons no pro-
t die in whatever has been afforded. The only
covering ever given has been garden netting in
three or four thicknesses, and subsequent to the
blossoms commencing to open. This was kept iu
position with poles standing out about 3 feet from
the base of the wall, aud let iuto the border a few
i iches, being fixed to the coping above on which the
Hitting was suspended. If a more elaborate system
of protection be contemplated, the beat material for
the purpose that I have seen is that sold by the
trade .is No. ."i shading. Where this is used, a
r >ady means of removiug it daily from the trees
must be constructed : such as small iron rods fixed
under the coping, and on stout posts about Sleet
high, aud as much from the base of the wall. The
material should lie lilted with ordinary brass
.in I. mi rings top and bottom, thrsr In ruu on
the rods fixed parallel with tin' wall. Thus, each
tree would have two such curtains, that, when
drawn, would meet in the centre, a string tied to
th'- tup inside ring serves for drawing the curtains
to and fro, and keeps them in position by tying
together when drawn. In making tins:' curtains,
ih depth should be only just sufficient for the rings
to meet the rods and allow of running easily, other
wise if made too full, iu windy weather they would
blow against the trees. These coverings will last,
for many years if stored away in a dry place when
not iu nee. The trees should be hit fully exposed
b ilh night aud day in mild weather.

77c Fig-tree. The Fig-trees have not stood in
need of much protection from frost the present
winter, and after this date it is not likely that we
shall experience frost sulficieutly severe to injure
trees ou walls if now exposed, especially if the walls
have a good wide coping. In any case, where the
trees are thatched with straw, some or all of this
should now be removed, if the latter, a lighter one
of fish nettiug, three or four times thick, may be
hung over the trees after pruning. The latter
operation should now be carried out. The pruning
consists of the removal of all old spurred - in
branches, and those which have borne fruit. The
baro spaces, the result of this operation, should be
covered with young shoots of the previous season,
which should be laid iu at their full length, the
points of these shoots bearing the most fruit. A
space of 6 to '.) inches should lie allowed between the
young shoots, otherwise the fruits of the young wood
have little chance of maturing perfectly, especially
if the summer be a cool oue. The present season is
suitable for the planting or transplanting of the
Fig. As a rule of general observance, a south wall,
or tin.' corner where a west wall connects with it,
should be selected for planting Fig-trees. A wide,
deep, or rich border is unnecessary for the Fig, in
fact, should be avoided, the rank growth induced
by much nutriment leading to unfruitfulness in tiie
plant. Where the natural soil is heavy and devoid
of lime in any form, a narrow border, 18 inches
deep, with something at the bottom and sides to
confine the roots should be provided, the staple of
the border being dug out, and loam two parts,
mortar- rubble and bioken bricks one pari each sub-
stituted, the whole being mixed together and
thrown into the hole, and rammed or trodden till it
'is firm. The drainage of the holder should be as
good as possible. A border, having au area o:

1 A yard square will afford ample space for a good-
sized tree. Although brick walls will confine tho
roots for a time, these will eventually get through
or beneath the brickwork, which will entail a cut-
ting back of the roots in order to check inordi-
nate top-growth. The roots of a Fig-tree turned
out of a pot, should be uncoiled and laid out
in the border, and the soil made quite firm about
them ; and if the border be a new one, the plant
should be planted rather high, so as to allow for the
settlement of the soil. Good Figs to plaut out of
doors are White Marseilles and Brown Turkey : but
if only variety be desired, choose the latter.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, Erst Sheen.

Miltonia vexillaria. — There are but few species
of Orchids which give such a wealth of bloom for
the size of the plant as Miltonias, and when the
situation is suitable, few are grown with less
trouble. M. vexillaria, in its native habitat, is
subjected to severe drought at times, so that the
bulbs shrivel excessively ; but the wet season
restores them to a plump condition, and apparently
they are not any the worse for the drought. It is
not usual to subject plants under cultivation to
such conditions, still, very little water is needed
to keep them in good condition from October to
the present. The plants are now forming pseudo-
bulbs, flower-spikes, and roots, and call for dif-
ferent treatment. Excepting when the pots are
too small for the plants, or via versA, Miltonia
vexillaria should seldom be re-potted, a yearly
renewal of the surface materials meeting their re-
quirements, aud being a surface-rooting plaut, the
pots should be almost tilled with crocks, the plant
being placed on the top, and sphagnum-moss and
peat worked iu among the roots, leaving the central
mass slightly elevated above the rim. The moss
and peat may be about equal in quantity. Such
species as M. v. rubella, Klabockorum, Leopold!,
aud superba, which are natives of mountains, will
not be so forward in growth as the first-named, and
surfacing and potting may be postponed, but in
other respects the treatment should be identical,
keeping them in a house having a temperature
between 55° and 5S°, affording air freely when
weather permits, moisture in the air and at the
root being maintained in excess of that which has
been afforded during the winter months. Fumigate
lightly ouce iu three weeks in order to kill Hi rips, and
remove dust from the leaves with a sponge.

Pescatorea, Bollea, dr. — Botauically speak-
ing, these are still classed as Zygopetalums, but
from a cultural standpoint, they have little in
common with the old members of that genus. The
essential poiuts in their cultivation are dense
shade, much moisture, a fair amount of heat, solar
or other, aud to be afforded fresh air. Success can
usually be obtaiued by growing them with the
warm-house Cypripediums, placing them in the
shadiest part of the house. Baskets or perforated
pans are more suitable than pots iu which to grow
them, and these should be filled to three-fourths of
their depth with crocks, peat, and sphagnum-moss,
the latter preponderating, being the chief root-
ing materials. Newly-poted plants should be
sparingly afforded water until re-established, when
more may be applied. With advance of the season
overhead spraying will be of benefit to the plants,
and help also to keep them free from red-spider,
and occasionally the leaves should be sponged with
a mild solution of soft-soap,

Spathoglottis aurea and Kimballiaua may now be
repotted if necessary, using much draiuage both
under aud among the roots. Over the crocks lay
sphagnum-moss, and finish off with a mixture of
peat one-third, loam, sphagnum-moss, saud, and
small crocks. When finished, the mass should be
a little lower than the rim, much water being re-
quired by the plants during the summer. The
pots should stand ou moisture-holding material, such
as fine coal-ashes in a light part of the stove, and
water be applied sparingly for some weeks. S.
Vieillardi thrives uuder similar conditions, but
being a more vigorous grower, more loam may be
introduced iuto the compost, and more root-space
given. The dwarf cool-growing S. Fortunei is
deciduous, and seldom needs re potting, the removal
of loose stuff on the surface, and replacing it with
a mixture of loam, leaf-mould, and saud sufficing.
Just enough water to prevent excessive dryness till
the plicate leaves have made headway should be
afforded.

136

THE GAXDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

[March 4, 1899.

APPOINTMENTS FOR MARCH.

THURSDAY,

Mar.

2

TUESDAY,

Mar.

7

SATURDAY,

Mar.

il-

MONDAY,

Mai:

ls

TUESDAY,

M IH

14

THURSDAY,

Mar.

16-

TUESDAY,

M.vr.

21

WEDNESDAY

Mar.

0->

SATURDAY,

Mar.

2i-

TUESDAY,

Mar.

2S

— Linnean Society, Meeting.

/ Scottish Horticultural Association,
\ Meeting.

—Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

I Annual Meeting of the United Hor-
' ticultural Benefit and Provident
^ Society.

fRoyal Horticultural Society, Meet-

f National Rose Society, Committee
i Meeting.

I Royal Horticultural Society of Ire-
V, land, Meeting.

—Linnean Society, Meeting.

/'Truro Show of Daffodils (2 days) :

-' Deputation from the Roy;il Hor-
t ticultural Society.

( Show of Torquay Gardeners' Asse-
ts ciatiou

—Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

t Royal Horticultural Society, Coin-
"i mittees.

SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, Mar.

( Bases,

tl -.' iu as

i Jajiat
>< tim

, Carnations, Aueiuones, Spi-
o-i nt-as, &c, at Protheroe & Morris'
( Rooms.

/Hardy Border Plants. Gloxinias,
7 -[ Paeonies, &c. , at Protheroe &
t Morris' Rooms.

[Japanese Lilies, Palm Seeds, Con-
tinental Plants, &c, at Prothej oe

: Moms' Rooms.

THURSDAY, Mar.

I Hardy Perennials, Gloxinias, Holly -
v-l hocks, «te., at Protheroe &
^ Morris' Rooms.

Mah. 10

Climbers, Dahlias, Roses, Hardy
Perennials, &c, at Protheroe &
Morris" Rooms.

Imported and Established Orchids,
at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period February l!»-'2">, 1899. Height above sea-level
24 feet.

Temperature of
the Air.

<

K
pq

Q »

«

Tempera-
ture of THE
Soil at 9 a.m.

ft

03

ft

0)

ft

'O

-d

r-t

CI

tM

<

<

■<

- a

go

Bun. 19
Mos. 20
Tues.2]
Wed. 22
Tiiu. 23
Fill. 24
Sat. 25

Means..

,l,.g. ,le-. (leg. dt--. ins.

E.S.B. 42-9 42-9:52-3|37i0 ...

E.N.B. 45-2 43-9 46-6 42-5 ...

E.N.E. 42-9 40-1 45-(!41-l ...

E.S.E. 41-8 37-8'48-9 35-5 .

E.N.E. 34 lilMJoU 3 32-0 ...

S.E. 2T-S|2T-S51-9 26-2 ...

N.E. '33-0 32-S I2-i; 27-0 ...

36-5

■ leg. deg,
42-0 44-2
44-044-3
43m; 44-5
41-5 44-5
3U-0 43-0
38-642-9
37-8:42-2

;. deg.

45-ii 30-s
40-7 40-3
4.J-0 3i.ro

45-0
45-0
45-6

2.V 0
L9-5

18-0

45-3 18-8

Tot..
35-8;48-038-2 ... 40-9,44-0 45-5,29-1

B, murks.— No rain has fallen since the 15th ; the tempera-
ture has been steadily going down, and the wind has varied
between N.E. and S.E. Fog has been prevalent, being very
dense on the 24th and 25th.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 41 6\

Actual Temperatures :—

London.— Mmc'i 1 (12 p.m.): Max. 55s; Min. 23'.
Provinces.— Muni, 1 (12 p.m.) : Max. 49°, Cromer ; Min
43 , York.

„, , Irom a variety of causes it may

bhrubs on , . ' , , , J

Lawns. frequently occur that the shrubs,

deciduous and evergreen, afford

little satisfaction, making poor growth, the

branches dying at the tips, and with but few

flowers in season. These lawn shrubs may

consist of Deutzias, Spiraeas, Coronilla Emerus,
Jasminum fruticans, Philadelphia microphyllus,
and Lejuoine's hybrids of Philadelphia, the
new varieties of Lilac ; Vitex, Sophora pendula,
Stuartia, Magnolia Soulangeana, M. Ltnne,
M. stellata, Desfontainea spinosa, Ai-alia
spinosa, Styrax obassia, a very free-flowering
Japanese shrub ; Indigofera decora and I.
Gerardiana, Corhus Kousa, 0. florida rubra,
Chimonanthus fragrans, Daphne Mezereuin,
Desmodium, Eleagnus argenteus, Eucryphia
pinnatifolia, Exochorda, Forsythia suspensa,
and others ; Hibiscus syriacus, Hydrangeas,
Pieonia moutan, and Arundo Donax.

The present season affords the gardener the
opportunity of improving the health of the
plants by transplanting them bodily, digging
out the bad soil wholly or in part, and replacing
it with suitable fresh soil, or mixing a con-
siderable portion of the latter with the staple,
and increasing the root area by several feet.

In all cases where the health of the plants
has suffered, an endeavour should be made
to lift the root-mass fairly intact, and to
lay the roots extending beyond the outside of
the mass at varying levels, stretching them out
at their full length, and embedding them in the
soil firmly. If a plant's roots are found to be-
dead for some distance from the tips, these-
should be cut back to sound tissue, the cuts
being made from the under-side in all cases, so
as to induce ready callusing, and eventually
the formation of roots.

It will considerably hasten the production of
new roots in such cases if a large quantity of
sharp sand be thrown in around the rout-
masses, and water plentifully afforded during
the progress of the replanting operations. Those
plants which possess small roots are benefited
by having sandy-peat, leaf-soil, and sand,
mixed with pasture-loam, used in the replant-
ing ; but this is a matter about which we will
not dogmatise, seeing how greatly natural soils
vary, and that particular ingredient which is
called for in i me, may not be at all needed in
another.

A matter often totally neglected by amateurs,
and by many gardeners, is the pruning of flower-
ing deciduous shrubs, and the removal of weak,
flower-less, and useless shoots, which, being left
untouched, hinder the proper ripening of the
best shoots, and rob them of nutriment to their
detriment.

In the case of shrubs which flower on the new
growth, pruning may be carried out in the
autumn and early winter severely in the case of
young plants growing into form ; and mode-
rately in the case of those that have attained a
desirable size, but in every case the relatively
weak shoots should be removed. On the other
hand, the species which flower on one-year-old
shoots and spurs should be pruned towards
the end of the season of flowering, not, how-
ever, waiting till it is quite past, as to do
this would shorten the all -too -brief season
of growth. Only in the case of young plants
in course of formation should there be a
cutting-back of the main shoots or branches,
but the more mature plants should be allowed
to assume their natural shapes, which is
always more satisfactory than any endeavour
to control growth would make them. This
will be readily acknowledged by anyone who has
compared for example a Deutzia which has not-
had its main shoots shortened, with one that
has been clipped all over, as is sometimes done.
The fact is, a good shrub-primer must not alone
possess a sharp knife, but brains as well ; and
he must have a thorough knowledge of the

mode of growth and of flowering of all the
subjects upon which he is required to
operate. This, of course, bars most garden
labourers and gardener apprentices. This
reminds us that gardeners who know their
work, and who desire their young people to
acquire knowledge, should always let them
accompany the person entrusted with the work.
If this were more commonly done, and shrub-
pruning systematically and annually carried
out, garden shrubs would afford more gratifica-
tion than is commonly the case. Unfortu-
nately, shrubs in gardens, being employed
as wind-breaks, fences, or screens to objec-
tionable features about a place, come in for
little if any attention, except it be of the
wrong sort — as, for instance, pruning with
the shears on one pattern, or the deep
digging of the land beneath, with the idea,
one would imagine, that the more surface-roots
are destroyed in the process the better for
the shrubs. We see examples of this absurd
practice in some of the public gardens and parks
in London, one of the worst being those of the
Thames Embankment.

We will, in conclusion, touch upon the im-
portant matter of surface feeding after a shrub
has become established. From the position of
a shrub on a lawn, it is not desirable to place
nasty-smelling manorial mulches on the soil
around shrubs, neither to fork such aids to
growth into the soil, so that the gardener has
to fall back upon the use of bone-meal, guano,
potash, nitrate of soda, lime and manure-water,
all of which can be afforded readily if a circular
space, 2 to 3 feet in diameter, round the stem,
be left clear of grass.

Failing this free space, or in cases where
the roots extend far away from the stem,
the manurial agents must be applied to the
turf, with naturally a resulting strong growth
of the grasses. One or two copious appli-
cations of manure-water should be made in
months, and several during the
growth, say in June and July,
In light soils particular atten-
tion should be paid to affording water in the
summer, more especially to shrubs not many
years planted, failure to do this usually
resulting in impaired growth. Shrubs of long
standing seldom sutler much before the end of
the summer, and rarely so much as to flag ; so
that unless water and the labour to supply it
are available, they may be left to chance. The
recent rainfall has been general and heavy over
the whole country, but that, notwithstanding,
the lack of moisture in the soil at the end of
the year having been extreme, the rainfall,
heavy as it has been, will not have replaced
that which was lost by evaporation during the
drought ; and gardeners will probably find their
bigger shrubs, and even trees, exhibiting signs
of suffering before the autumn.

the winter
period ( if
not later.

L/ELIA ANCEPS VAR. SANDERIANA AT HIGH-
BURY, Birmingham.— The Supplement to our pre-
sent issue shows a very freely-flowered plant of this
pretty variety of L. auceps, which recently bloomed
in the Orchid-houses of the Right Hon. JOSEPH
Chamberlain, M.P. In Gardener*' Chronicle for
February 26, 1SS7, p. 281, was given an illustra-
tion of the variety, showing a bloom of its uatural
size. Though not perhaps so handsome as L. a.
Dawsoui, that of Sanderiana very closely resembles
that lovely Orchid, the crimson upon the labellum
being but a little lighter in tint, and the form of the
flower less perfect. There are numerous forms of
Ladia anceps now in common cultivation, and all
of them are very lovely, the species itself being one
of the best known and most corumouly cultivated

o

March 4, 1899.]

THE GAB DENE h'S' CHBONIGLE.

137

of Orchids. Such a specimen as shown in our

illustration is a testimony to the success with
which Mr. Chamberlain's Orchid grower has
cultivated the collection at Highbury.

LlNNEAN SOCIETY.— February lb' : Dr. A.
. Gunther, F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
Clement Reid, F.L.S., exhibited some fruits of
Najas minor, Allioni, and of Najas graminea,
Delile, found during a further examination of the
iuterglacial deposits at West Wittering, iu Sussex.
Najas minor is distributed throughout Europe,
except in the north, and in Britain ; Najas
graminea is found in the Tropics of the Old World,
as well as in the Mediterranean region. In Britain,
where it has been accidentally introduced, it has
been fouud in a canal which receives waste hot
water from a factory. Or. A. 15. Rbndle, F.L.S.,
exhibited specimens of a fresh water Alga (Pitho-
phora) new to Britain, and described its structure ;
additional remarks beiug made by Messrs. A. W.
Bennett and Clement Reid. Messrs. I. If.
Burkill, F.L.S., and C. H. Wright, A.L.S., read
a pa2Jer " On some African Labiates with alternate
Leaves," a peculiarity which had been recently
used by M. Hua to characterise a new genus,
Icomum. To this genus three new species were
now added. Its affinity was said to be with
.Kolauthus, iu which certain irregularities iu the
arrangemeut of the bracts of the inflorescence and
flowers might be observed. The types of the new
species described were stated to be in the herbarium
at Kew Gardens.

The Paris Exhibition. — Iu connection with
the horticultural section of the Exposition Univer-
selle to be held iu Paris iu 1900, the committee,
uuder the presidency of M. Charles Baltet, ha\ e
decided to arrange an Arboricultural and Porno-
logical Conference, uuder the following conditions : —
I. The Conference will be held concurrently with
the great fruit show, probably about Sep-
tember '2.">, 1900.
II. Preliminary papers will be accepted dealing
with the undermentioned subjects included
iu the programme of the Conference : —

1. Fruit Farms ; Cultural and Economic Prin-

ciples ; Choice of Suitable Varieties, ami
their use.

2. Fruit-planting by roadsides.

3. Harvesting and preservation of Fruit ;

Packing Fruit.

4. Cider trees and fruits ; their cultivation

and uses,

5. Atmospheric agencies ; their influence on

forced Fruit-trees and Vims.
(i. Vegetable Physiology as regards fructifi-
cation ; Practice of Grafting and Pruning.

7. Tariffs and conditions of transport for Trees

and Fruits.

8. Insects ; diseases ; remedies.

9. Manures and fertilisers.

10. Concerning the propagation of varieties of

Fruit for Colonial cultivation.

1 1 . Tuition in Fruit-culture ; Garden-schools ;

Public instruction ; Congresses, &c.

The Bureau, with M. Charles Baltet as president
will arrange all details connected with the organisa-
tion of the Arboricultural and Pomological
Conference.

Open Spaces and Parliament.— It is but a
week or two since, at a conference between central
and local authorities, it was agreed to leave the
supervision of metropolitan "open spaces" to the
sanitary officials — this in order to ensure efficient
supervision and to allay friction. On the face of it
this appears to be the proper course, yet but a few
days elapsed before a Bill was introduced into the
House of Commons, once more altering and pro-
posing to alter the arrangements arrived at. The
new "Municipal Bill" proposes to hand over the
many open spaces to the care of what we may
term here "Borough Parliaments," each with a

mayor, aldermen, and common council. Perhaps
the open spaces may find this to their advantage —
perhaps the result may be to the contrary ; at any
rate, the matter is well worthy the attention of all
concerned : this means all lovers of pure air, con-
tact with plauts and flowers, and healthy exercise
for youngsters in the metropolis. Let our parlia-
mentary representatives make a special not, ,,i
this matter when the bill in question gets into
committee.

Hampstead Heath Protection.— Mr. E.
Brume Hoake, M.P. , presided, on February 22,
at the second annual general meeting of this
Society, which was held iu the lecture- room of the
Subscription Library, Stanfield House, Hamp-
stead. The Society was established iu 1897, to
take steps for the preservation of Hampstead
Heath in its wild and natural state, so far as is
consistent with its full enjoyment by the public.
The annual report aud balance-sheet showed that,
iu co-operation with the London County Council,
the Society had already been the means of doing
some useful work. The chairmau, iu addressing
the meeting, said that the Society had no desire to
act in antagonism to the London County Council,
but to co-operate with them iu preserving the
natural beauties of Hampstead Heath, aud he
believed that feeling was reciprocated by many
members of the County Council. The report was
uuanimously adopted, and various speakers in-
sisted on the importance of preserving Hampstead
Heath as a piece of natural open country, ami of
not treating it like a London park.

Rubber - Plants. — Economically aud com-
mercially, great interest now eeutres iu the
cultivation in suitable localities of plants yielding
caoutchouc. The demand is already very large,
and it is likely to increase rather than diminish ;
hence, it is very important that our colonics should
be supplied with the means of cultivating the
rubber-plants on a large scale. Messrs. J. B.
Williams & Brothers, of Verjancoda, Ceylon,
send us circulars relatiug to the cultivation of
Castilloa elastiea, the most valuable Central Ameri-
can rubber-tree, aud llevea brasiliensis, which
furnishes the Para rubber.

Hybridisation. Mr. R. A. Rolfe, of Kew,

who is preparing a paper for the Hybridisation
Conference, entitled "Hybridisation viewed from
the standpoint of systematic botany," would be
much obliged for any information respecting the
reproduction of any supposed natural hybrids by
artificial means, either among Orchids or othei
plants.

The Coal-Smoke Abatement Society.—
Sir Wm. Richmond took the chair at a committee
meeting of this society, held last week at l>, < Inslow
Gardens. Several letters were read from members
who were unable to attend. The Duke of West-
minster in expressing a wish that a younger man
than himself might accept the presidency, showed
his practical sympathy by subscribing £100. The
chairman, in referring to the rapid increase in the
membership, felt it was largely due to the action of
the committee in fixing the minimum annual sub-
scription at a nominal amount, thus obtaining the
wide support of the public. When the inhabitants
of this great metropolis thought of the benefit to
health and the saving to the pocket secured by a
cleaner aud purer London, they would be quick to
give their substantial assistance to the movement.
The hen. secretary, Mr. Owen B. Thomas, of 59,
Chancery Lane, will be pleased to answer any
enquiries.

Kew Gardeners : Past and Present.— The

annual meeting of the Kew Guild, an institution
that was established in 1893, as a means of bringing
into closer association with each other the past and
present graduates of the Royal Gardens, was held
on the 23rd ult. The proceedings took place in
the new room, known as the student's library,
which is capable of seating upwards of seventy

persons, and is in every respect a convenient aud
comfortable apartment. Iu the much regretted
abseuce of the president (Mr. GEO. Nicholson),
the chair was tilled by Mr. J no. Weathers. The
report, for the year was received with considerable
satisfaction, aud the management of the affairs of
the Guild, including the Guild Journal, which is
issued annually, and edited by Mr. Watson, was
warmly praised. There arc now seventy-one life
members of the Guild, aud the committee's appeal
for others to compound their subscriptions by a
payment of £1 is one that should meet with general
acceptance. Mr. 1!. A. Rolfe was elected to re-
present the herbarium upon the committee, and
when the youug men at present employed at Kew
hail chosen one of their number to represent them
in place of a retiring member, the rest of the
committee were re-elected en bloc. It may interest
many members in the colonies to know that a por-
trait of Mr. \Y. Bun inc Hemsley, F. U.S., will
form the frontispiece to the next Journal, to be
issued in May. A resolution was passed offering
the congratulations of the Guild to the director of
the Royal Gardens, Sir W. T. Thiseltun Dyer,
K.C.M.G., &c, upon the honour recently con-
ferred on him by Her Majesty. Several minor
alterations were made in the rules for the
purpose of fixing the annual meeting for the last
Thursday iu February of each year. Any reader
who has been employed at Kew, but who does not
receive the Guild Journal, is invited to write to
Mr. Watson, tin' hon. secretary.

Fruit Cultivation by Farmers. At the
Farmers' Club, Salisbury Square, Fleet Street, E.C.,
on Mouday, February 27, Mr. SPENCER PlCKI RING,
!•'. U.S., ga\c a paper on this subject which attracted
a large gathering of members. All the principal
points in relation to fruit growing on Farms were
dealt with generally, and especial stress was laid
upon the fact that more attention was needed than
had hitherto been accorded from an agriculturist's
point of view. Examples of the gross neglect so
apparent in many districts were described, and the
lies indicated. The extension of fruit culture
by an arrangement between landlord and tenant
was advocated, and the method which fouud favour
with I he lecturer was one by which the landlord
provided I he trees, and the tenant incurred the
expenses of preparation, planting, and culture. A
system of compensation was also recommended ;
the actual amount payable to an out-going tenant
being determined by valuation. A vote of thanks
to the lecturer concluded the proceedings after some
discussion had taken place ou the various aspects
of the subject,

ORCHARDS. A practical paper was contributed
by Mr. R. L. Castle, Manager of the Wobum Ex-
perimental Fruit Farm to the Bedfordshire
Chamber of Agriculture, ou Saturday, February 25,
in which the subjects of plauting, managing, and
restoring orchards, were dealt with exhaustively.
There was a large attendance of members, aud an
interesting discussion followed, during which, both
the difficulties and the advantages of fruit growing
were fully brought out. Mr. Crick, a fruitgrower
of Ampthill, endorsed the whole of the statements
made in the paper, which he described as thoroughly
practical, aud useful iu every respect. He further
stated, that after forty years' experieuce he was
preparing to make a considerable extension of the
area of land he devoted to fruit, and he thought
that was the best proof of his opiuiou iu the matter.
A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr.
Castle at the conclusion of the proceedings.

Miss Helen Thornycroft'S Exhibition.—
Miss Helen Thornycroft, sister of Hamo
ThornyCROFT, R.A , sculptor, has now on view
at her studio, 2a, Melbury Road, some beautiful
flower pictures, aud paths and corners of old-
fashioned gardeus, the latter mostly taken from
cottage gardens in Monmouthshire aud Hereford-
shire, where the soil must be exceptionally good,
and the care and attention of the gardeuer unre-

138

THE GA B DENER £' CHE ONI CLE.

[March 4, 1899.

mittiiig. Miss Thornycroft's flower pieces are
well known ; and in looking round her gallery
one is especially struck by the purity and brilliancy
of her colouring, and the accurate drawing of the
flowers so gracefully arranged. There are two
beautiful Orchid groups, and a very free and natural
arrangement of Fritillarias. Besides the flower
subjects alluded to, Miss Thornycroft is showing
sketches of Scotland, Monmouthshire, and the
Italian and Austrian Tyrol, the former so blue and
tender in colour, aud Dolomite country so still
and cold. The exhibition will remain open till
March 25 inclusive.

Flowering of Amherstia nobilis.— Know-
ing that you are always interested in anything
special or rare, writes Mr. Jeffrey, of Harewood
House Gardens, Leeds, under date of February 28,
I am writing to let you know that one of our
plants of Amherstia nobilis is showing two racemes
of flowers. The plant is between b' and 7 feet high,
and was brought from Trinidad by Lord Habjbwood
live years ago. Judging by the progrees it is
making, the blooms should be open in about four
weeks.

Wilts County Council. — The following
summary of the chief results obtained for the last
four years in the Experimental Stations nearCalne
has been published in the annual report : —

PoTATOS. — 1. Good crops of Potatos may be grown
at a profit for four years (probably more) on tbe
same land with artificials alone as a manure, pro-
vided these contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potash iu suitable form and proportion. 2. The
omission of any one of tbe ingredients (nitrogen,
phosphorus, or potash) reduces both the crop and
the profit on the manure employed. 3. Of the
three above-mentioned ingredients, the omission of
potash causes the least loss, and that of nitrogen
the greatest 4. The application of 8| cwt. per
acre of artificial manure containing equal weights of
nitrate of soda, mineral superphosphate (26 to
27 sol. phos. ), and kaiuit, is more remunerative
than one consisting of either 4j cwt. or 12:j cwt. of
a similar mixture. 5. Sixteen tons per acre of
stable-dung, at 5s. per ton, produces a bigger crop
and more profit than Si cwt. per acre of the
artificials referred to above, 6. The maximum
crop and profit were obtained with stable-dung,
8 tous per acre, supplemented by nitrate of soda,

3 cwt. per acre, or au equivalent of ammonium
sulphate. 7- During an average season but very
little may be gained by spraying early varieties
with Bouillie Bordelaise if planted in good time ;
but the spraying of late varieties may at least be
regarded as a cheap form of insurance against loss
of crop from the Potato disease. 8. Equal weights of
whole and cut seed yield very nearly the same
weight of crop. 9. The plucking of flowers from
the Potato plaut, to prevent loss by formation
of seed, is not remunerative. The yield from
heavy land, especially in dry seasons, is greater
than that from light laud. 10. The best dis-
tances for planting appears to be eight rows to
the perch, and 14 inches between the sets in the
rows for late varieties, and ten rows to the perch
aud 12 inches between the sets in the rows for early
varieties.

Rotation C'Rors (on Heavy Land). — 1. Good
crops of Mangels, Barley, Beans, aud Oats may be
profitably grown in rotation without farmyard-
manure, provided suitable artificials be employed.

2. Of the above crops, Mangels give the best and
Beans the least return for artificial manuring.

3. The best financial results have beeu obtained so
far by manuring as follows : — Mangels: nitrate of
soda 44 cwt., salt 3 cwt. , and superphosphate 1 cwt.
Barley: nitrate of soda 1§ cwt., and basic slag

4 cwt. Beans : no manure, but seeds treated with
nitragiu. Oats : nitrate of soda 1J cwt., and basic
slag 4 cwt. per acre. C. H. Corbett, Secretary.

Experimental Garden, Droitwich.— The
third annual report is before us, giving details of
the various fruit trees and garden crops raised
during the year 1S98. Cox'sOrauge Pippin, Bis-

marck, Gladstone, Potts' Seedling, Stirling Castle,
Cellini, Keswick Codlin, Lord Grosvenor, Winter
Hawthornden, aud Worcester Pearmain were
among the best Apples grown. The best Plums
were the Czar, Pershore, Mallard, and Bittern.
Of Red Currants. La Fertile, Victoria, and Knight's
Early are tbe most vigorous growing varieties.
Among Gooseberries, Rough Green, Whinham's
Industry, Keepsake, Rough Red, and Scotch Red
are the strongest growers. The favourite Rasp-
berries are Prince of Wales, Red Perpetual, Super-
lative, aud Surprise d'Automne. The best four
Strawberries were Royal Sovereign, Monarch, the
Countess, and Sir Joseph Paxton. Similar details
are given with relation to kitchen garden crops.
Our space will not allow us to cite more freely, but
we advise those interested to become possessors of
this useful little treatise, which is issued by Mr.
Udale for the Worcestershire County Council, aud
which may be had from Messrs. Mark & Moody,
Stourbridge.

"Illustrations de Flore du Congo."—
Under this title, MM. De Wildeman & Durand
are issuiug a series of quarto lithographic plates
devoted to the illustration of the new plants dis-
covered iu the Congo State. Some 2000 specimens
are already preserved in the National Herbarium
at Brussels, of which no fewer than 500 are con-
sidered to be new to science. Living plants will also
be collected and remitted to M. Linden for purposes
of cultivation. We presume also that the Botanic
Gardens of Belgium will profit by these importa-
tions. The illustrations before us are principally
of botanical interest only. They are excellent
representations of the respective plants, and are
furnished with detailed aualyses, without which
such plates are of little value. Vernonia hamata
is remarkable for the inner scales of the pappus,
which are strongly hooked at the apex. The
collaboration of monographers of particular families
is ensured.

The Crystal Palace. — Exhibitors kuow
full well that there is no place near Londou any.
thing like so well suited for their purposes as
" the Palace." They will, therefore, he interested
in knowing that the prospects of the Company are
decidedly improving. The financial condition is
sounder, the train service is to be improved, aud
altogether the outlook is much more favourable
than it has been of late years.

The Surveyors' Institution. —The next

ordinary general meeting will be held on Mouday,
March (i, 1899, when a paper will be read by Mr.
F. J. Smith (Fellow), entitled "The Working of
the Light Railways Act, 1896.'' The chair will be
taken at 8 o'clock. Country meeting at Bristol : —
It has been decided, on the invitation of the
Somerset, Gloucester, aud North Wilts Provincial
Committee, to hod the next country meeting at
Bristol, on April 26 and 27. The first day will be
devoted to papers and discussious, with a dinner
in the evening ; the second day to excursions to
various places of interest in Bristol and its neigh-
bourhood. Full particulars will be issued a little
later on.

A New Water-Lily.— Under the uame of
Nymphiea fenuica, Mr. A. J. Meld, iu the Acta
Societati* pro fauna et flora Fennica, xiv. (1897),
April 3, describes and figures a new small -flowered
white Water-Lily. The leaves and flowers are
small ; the petiole has only two large central air-
canals, instead of four, as in N. Candida and N.
alba. The base of the flower, and its relative size
in regard to the sepals, are very characteristic
looked at from beneath, is four-sided, and separates
the species from N. Candida and N. alba. The white
petals, ten to fifteen in number, are narrowly lanceo-
late and concave, so that the eutire corolla is cup-
shaped. The stigmas are five- to nine-parted, with
yellow, often violet-tipped, lobes, so that they form
a ceutral star, whose rays are deep violet-coloured.
The species occurs chiefly iu middle and East
Finland, mostly m small forest pools.

THE CEDAE AVENUE AT
DROPMORE.

Few persons who have visited Dropmore, that
paradise of Conifers, failed to view the remarkable
Cedar avenue. It is not a conspicuous feature,
leads to nowhere in particular, and is situated some
hundred yards distant from, and about parallel to,
the road which travers:s the grounds. The finest
specimens of Cedrus Deodara now extant at Drop-
more were planted by Frost in 1834, which was
soon after his appointment as gardener ; but this
avenue of Lebanon Cedars was probably planted
ten or fifteen years later. The trees were planted
in avenue form, we believe, in reality to get rid of
them, so many Cedars having been dotted about
the grounds as to be suggestive somewhat of
monotony. But although it owes its origiu to au
accidental abundance of young plants, the avenue
forms at this day a pleasing and unusual feature of
tree-planting iu this country. The photograph from
which our illustration (tig. 52) was prepared was
taken by Mr. James, of Farnlmm Royal.

Home Gorrespondencf.

FULHAM PALACE GARDENS.— I notice ill the
Gardener* Chronicle of last week's issue, a reference
to the above gardens iu the olden time. Haviug
had the pleasure of a ramble rouud the grounds
and gardens of this interestiug old palace, one day
last summer, I had many aucieut specimens pointed
out to me by Mr. Turner, the present head gar-
dener. Two mentioned in last week's article are
still there, viz., Gleditsehia triacantha, aud Juglans
nigra. Beautiful specimens of evergreen Oaks are
promiueut on tlie lawns ; also noteworthy speci-
mens of Fagus asplenifoli.i, Taxodium disticbum,
Cedrus libani, and Betula incisa ; a magnificent
example of the Eastern Plane-tree, Platauus orien-
lalis, stands in flic centre of a broad walk, leading
to the drawbridge. On the palace walls are the
old Sweet Bays and Myrtles, growing to a height
of from lti to 20 feet. The grounds, gardens, and
palace are surrounded by a moat, which is still
kept tilled with water, as in ancient days. It is
pleasing to add that Bishop Creighton and his lady
take a great delight iu their gardens, which Mr.
Turner keeps in admirable order. T. II. Bolton.

DUTHIE PARK, ABERDEEN. -I can fully endorse
the remarks of Mr. William Cuthbertson (p. 124)
on the beautiful Duthie Park, also the compliment
he pays to the able superintendent. I enclose a
cutting from the Aberdeen Evening Express, which
shows the desire of the town council to render the
park still more attractive and interesting to the
public. G. II'. Cummins, Balmedie Gardens. [The
cutting shows an extensive, pleasing, cruciform
glasshouse, with a central dome, high sides, aud a
lantern roof, the building staudiug on a slightly
elevated platform, approached by flights of steps,
aud a sloping path. Ed.]

EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS IN SCOTLAND. — Hav-
ing read several letters in the Gardeners' Chronicle
about these trees, my experience in the open here
may be of interest. Some fifteen years ago a plant
of Eucalyptus Globulus was put out against a south
wall of this house. The plaut has thriven since,
and now covers the entire wall, the top of the tree
having been cut off many years ago to encourage
the branches to spread. In 1894 thisplant flowered
freely. I gathered the seed in 1896, and sowed it iu
February, 1897. Almost every seed came up, and
these are now spleudid young plants, all of which I
intend planting out when two years old. Iu the
autumn of 1897 I planted iu the woods two young
E. Globulus, about 7 feet high, both these have
grown rapidly, one making a growth of 9 feet
4 inches during the past summer. This plant is
growing in a very wet peaty soil ; the measurement
was taken on September 30, and is accurate.
Seventeen degrees of frott was registered here in
November last, but neither plaut was in the least
affected. Logan, Mull of Galloway, N. B.

STRAWBERRY NOBLE AND ROYAL SOVEREIGN.
— There appears no reliable time to reckou on the
ripening of forced Strawberries. Last year my
Nobles aud Royal Sovereigns were both ripe iu
February, within two days of each other. This

March 4, 1809.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

139

year, although botli were housed the same
day, and iu the same house, Royal Sovereign was
ripe on February 16, but the Nobles will not be
ripe for some days. This will bring them nearly
three weeks later than Royal Sovereign. Edward
Bennett, Farnborough, Hants.

PRUNUS PISSARDI IN LATE WINTER.^There is
sharp frost outside, and a dense fog, though not
sufficient to hide from view the fact that ihe trees
immediately contiguous have their branches
wreathed with rime ; but inside, in my cold glass-
house, this Japanese Plum is laden with blossom.
The plant is in the form of a low standard, occupy-
ing a 12-inch pot ; it has a head some 5 feet through,
and every branch and twig is laden with white
blossom from the centre to the extremest points.
The mass of snowy blossom is singularly profuse ;
and I need scarcely add the specimen is greatly

kept standing in a pan of water. There are few-
subjects so easily managed, which are so useful as
Prunus Pissardi ; heaping up its flowers in happy
plenteousness in spring, and then putting on a
brilliant robe of leafage in summer and autumn,
which it retains until they drop. E. D.

FROST AND FOG. — It is a common saying in
Hampshire, "So many fogs in March; so many
frosts in May." I have known old gardeners and
husbandmen who held to this belief with all the
fervour of devotees ; but I could never get from
any one of them the reason of the connection be-
tween the two. This belief (for it amounts to a
belief) is probably based upou some observation
made in times pxst, which may possess an amount
of credence it is scarcely wise to scoff at. It is
doubtless a remnant of the old weather lore, which
abounds iu country places, ami which is handed

Bishops Teignton, in Devonshire, without winter
protection. It may be interesting to him to know
that there are at present in the nurseries of
Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Sons, of Newtownards,
co. Down, a large number of splendid specimens of
both this and the variegated variety, which have
stood out for many years, without the slightest
protection, and have now attained large proportions.
W. F. Gunn.

the VISCUM album.— I have from time to
time made a few remarks ou the above parasite,
and rind from long observation that mauy
varieties differ in habit very greatly — that there
are some that are very compact in growth,
with very small foliage, and others much coarser
aud longer in growth, aud with very thick leaves,
having the fasciated form, variegated, and double
parasitic forms. The remark I am about to make

Fig. 52. — the avenue of cedars of Lebanon at dropmork, (see p. 13S.)

admired. As I am compelled through exigencies
of space to keep the plant reduced in size, as soon
as the blooming time is over I prune back quite
hard, leaving a mere skeleton, but shoots are
speedily thrown out, and by mid-summer there is a
dense head of reddish claret-foliage, and the shoots
beating this produce the bloom of the spring. The
plant, with its bright foliage, forms an ornament
in my forecourt garden all the winter. If gardeners
only realised what a charming object this plant
can be made to be, they would grow it largely in
pots for cold house and conservatory decoration at
this season of the year. I think it is better adapted
for a cold house than a warm one, because I think
that the warmth would provoke growth ; while, iu
a cold house, without the stimulus of artificial
heats, there are only a few leaves to be seen at the
points of the shoots. I have shown that this
Prunus is amenable to rough treatment ; a plant
will also do well in a pot for years, provided some
fertiliser be used during the season. I have em-
ployed ichthemic guano with excellent effects,
placing a thin layer upou the surface once a week,
and watering it in. In summer, owing to the
plant being in a pot tilled with roots, the pot is

down from parent to child as of undoubted credi-
bility. Can anyone throw light upou the rationait
of this country expression. R. I>.

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE.— 1 have about
forty plants of this tine variety, which were raised
from cuttings struck early iu May, 1S98, in strong
bottom heat. When the cuttings were well-fur-
nished with roots, they were removed to a house
having an intermediate temperature. After a few
re-pottings they flowered iu small 32"s in September,
aud they are still flowering profusely. I know of
no flowering plant for which so many uses can be
found, and I have had plants which have flowered
beautifully for six weeks iu succession. With re-
gard to female flowers, I had six plants which
exhibited from ten to thirty female flowers each,
the seeds of which I carefully harvested, and I have
now as much seed as one could place on a sixpence.
I am about to sow this seed in the hope that it will
have germinating power. Jas. Moir. ilM..lt ^

PHORMIUM TENAX.— Inyourissueof February 25
a correspondent makes mention of seeing a tine
plant of Phormium tenax growing in a garden at

is, that two kinds may be produced from the
same seed, one part of the plant differing
from another part. I have two specimens
showing this peculiarity, aud feel quite sure
myself it is correct (but what science may say
remains to be stated), as very frequently a berry
produces two shoots, aud attaches itself to the tree,
showing a proof of the correctness of the assertion.
The old berries that are left on the plant sprout
in themselves after attainiug a certain age, that
is, being fully ripe. There are often some berries
left on the plant till the next crop, which doubtless
would grow if put carefully and securely on the
rind, but not having tried them I cannot say ; but I
fully believe it would succeed, as the berry, if good,
will sprout on anything, on even a cannon-ball,
stone, or on a dry fence, but lacking the nutriment
required it dies. Doubtless, some of the more
learned in such matters, and possessing more
botanical knowledge, will give their views (should
they think the remarks made worth their notice),
aud their experience with this parasite. The speci-
mens alluded to are from nine to twelve years old,
so that my observation of them is not very limited.
Justus Corderoy.

140

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[March 4, 1899.

FILMY FERNS IN A COOL FRAME.— I read Mr.
Swan's remarks about the cultivation of filmy
Ferns with interest. We know that the plants
dislike heat, and are most at home in shady, cool
pits, or glass-cases, if severe frosts are guarded
against. In the gardens at The Hendre we have,
as has been remarked in the pages of this journal,
a glass-case of this kind on the north side of a
high building, in which Todeas, Hymenophylluui,
&c, thrive admirably. My object in writing is to
poiut out that although filmies are able to withstand
some degree of cold without injury, as I have
proved several times in the last twenty years, yet
there is a certaiD limit, and beyond which some
species are injured. In February, 1895, we had
unusually severe frosts, and when, on one occasion,
32° were registered, the Fern-case, although being
well protected'with mats and litter, the plants, on
being examined, were found to be thickly coated
with hoar-frost. The coverings, however, were
kept on the case till the frost had quite disappeared,
hoping that all would be well with the plants. This
was not so, however, for plants of Todea pellucida
were killed, and a fine specimen of Todea superba
lost all of its fronds, as well as the undeveloped
ones, none forming in 1S95. In the spring of 1S96,
a whorl, however, appeared, and the plant now has
upwards of thirty fronds, but they are uot as large
as those it possessed at the time of the frost.
Todea plumosa, Trichomanes radicans, T. dissec-
tum, and T. dilatatum withstood 32° of frost with-
out auy apparent ill-effects, and likewise Hymeno-
phyllum tunbridgense and H. Wilsoni, as they
might be expected so to do. Thos. Coomhi r.

Fruit Register.

*

NOTES ON SOME LATE WINTER PEAKS.

After Winter Nelis, a delicious Pear which is in
season in December, aud whose fruits come finest
ou wall trees, Passe Crassaue is one of our most
valuable Pears, keeping late and becoming fit for
table use in January, aud lasting for about five weeks.
The tree must be trained on a south or west wall,
and in a hot season it will reach perfection. Ne
Plus Meuris is a trusty variety, which is fit for
dessert as late as March ; if it have faults these
are smallness, aud sometimes grittiness, but good
cultivation results usually in a fair size and excel-
lent flavour. The tree bears well in most soils.

Glou Morceau is as good a variety almost as the
last, and is one of the largest of the late keepers.
It is improved in flavour by keeping, aud generally,
if it be left on the tree till November, with suitable
treatment in hastening or retarding ripening, Glou
Morceau has a season of two months. The fruit
when well exposed to the suu is always of a fine
yellow tinge. It is buttery juicy, but sometimes
gritty at the core. Josephiue de Malines and
Bergamotted'Esperen are our latest dessert varieties,
aud to have them in good couditiou they should not
be gathered, or, at the least, not all of them,
before November, or shrivelling will occur, and
flavour will be lacking. I have kept these two
varieties till the month of May in passable
condition.

It need scarcely be said that these late varieties
should be handled aud stored with the utmost care,
wood-wool or other soft material being laid in the
gathering baskets and on the fruit-room shelves.
The Pear-room should be dry aud airy, and the
fruit laid iu a single layer, covering them with
paper. When Pears are sent to table each variety
should be labelled neatly, so that the employers
may know what the variety is. W. A. f'ook, Oomji-
ton Basset Gardens, Calne.

Florists' Flowers.

SING LE-FLOWERED CHRYSANTHEMUMS.
To provide flowers for exhibition iu a cut state,
disbudding is necessary, in order to increase the size
of the blooms ; but as decorative subjects, I am not
in favour of cultivating single flowers on what is
known as the large-bloom system. For purposes of
decoration, either as plants in pots or as cut flowers,
the plants should be permitted to produce long

sprays, branching freely in a natural manner.
Mauy varieties belonging to this section are sweetly
perfumed ; that known as Mrs. Laugtry is espe-
cially so, and a freely-flowered plant is sufficient to
perfume a whole house.

February is a good time to insert strong, healthy
cuttiugs, aud two may be put into each 2A-inch
pot, using sandy soil. Place them iu a cool-
house, and when the plants are 4 inches high,
piuch the tops from the shoots, in order to induce
the plants to make lateral blanches. Re -pot
the plants before they become in the least root-
bound, and seek to keep the growth as stocky as
possible. Pots S and 10 inches in diameter are
sufficiently large. Indeed, the latter size would
afford room enough for three plants. To obtain
plants of various sizes, some of the plants may be
again " pinched " when they have made ."> inches of
additional growth. Subsequently, as the plants
grow and make natural breaks, the number of shoots
to each will be considerably increased. Beyond
loosely tying the branches to a few stakes in each
pot, no interference with the growth will be neces-
sary. The plants will then form as mauy buds as
possible, aud subsequently produce charming sprays
of blooms 2 feet long. The varieties are now
numerous, and it is not wise to grow any but the
best.

The following are a good selectiuu : — Miss Mary
Anderson, white shaded rose ; Miss Anuie Holden,
a creainy-buff sport from the above ; Fairfield
Beauty, rich velvety-crimson in colour, and of
exquisite form ; Annie Heard, pure white, of
medium size ; Admiral Sir T. Symouds, blooms
deep yellow, extra large ; Mrs. A. E. Stubbs, pure,
white ; Purity, also white, very free ; Souvenir de
Loudres, crimson ; Oceana, silvery blush ; Jane,
an old favourite, pure white ; Earlswood Beauty,
primrose ; Mrs. C. H. Seeley, white, extra fine ;
Millie Agate, blush ; Springfield Beauty, maroou ;
Earlswood Glory, white with green disc ; Golden
Star, rich yellow, shaded bronze ; Florence, blush-
pink ; Mrs. Langtry, pale-pink, fragrant ; and Miss-
Rose, pink, very free"". E. M.

are large, aud much dilated ou the upper side at
the base ; the bracts of the spikes are extremely
long and ciliate. We caunot explain the meaning
of the specific name " tassellata.'' It is a very
distinct aud ornamental stove Selaginella.

S. umbrosa somewhat resembles cauleseens. It is
a very pretty upright-growing variety, of straggling
habit. The fresh green colour of its fronds makes
a charrniug contrast with its bright red stems.
Selaginella erythropus grows quickly iu a temperate
greenhouse.

S. Victorias, Moore, is, I think, the most valuable
species next to grandis and Walliehi. Its sub-
erect, sarmentose stems become 3 to 4 feet long,
aud produce large fronds with long caudate
piuua'. The upper-side fronds are of a dark-
green colour, that may have given occasion to the
synouym " atroviridis," Spring. With respect to
its cultural requirements, these are attended to
by Mr. Mallet in the above-mentioned article. A
species quite different from all other cultivated
Selaginellas is S. oregana (Eatou). In its habit
it is more like a Lycopodium than a Selaginella.
Its thin stems are pendent, aud grow G feet iu
length ; its fronds are uniform, aud for that reason
it is included in the rupestris group. S. oregana
is worthy of cultivation, aud its trailiug habit
makes it suitable for baskets and hanging vases.
It also has a very good effect in masses.

Of small-growing, moss-like species, I only
name S. Poulteri ; the others are known well enough,
except, perhaps, the two varieties of Kraussiaua,
viz., Stansfieldi and Browni ; these are nice varie-
ties, suitable for covering a rockwork fernery. In
German gardens S. Kraussiaua is mostly called deu-
tieulata. This is quite wrong; deutieulata is a
Mediterranean species, totally different in habit
from S. Kraussiaua. C. A". Schneider, Darmstadt.

Foreign Correspondence.

SPECIES OK SELAGINELLA WORTHY OF
CULTIVATION.

In the number of the Gardeners' Chronicle for
December 17 last, Mr. G. B. Mallet describes
some species of Selaginella, and touches upon their
cultivation. I should be glad to add a few remarks.
Among the species of larger growth the followiug
are as beautiful aud worthy of cultivation as those
named by Mr. Mallet, viz., S. atroviridis. Spring,
is an oriental species, with a sub-erect and decom-
pound dark green fronds (if the term frond may be
adopted for the branches of Selaginellas). The
fronds become a half to 1 foot long. It is a plant
of easy cultivation, and has a good effect when
grown in large pans. S. atroviridis seldom pro-
duces spikes. This species belongs to the same
group as the well-known S. Martensii. 8. Breynii.
Spriug, may be regarded as the most beau-
tiful species of the uncinate or plumose group.
Its stems are entirely trailing, and bears sub
erect, piuuate, branched fronds ; the lateral
leaves are of a bright golden lustre, that renders
the plant very effective, and the better if several
plants are planted together into oue large pan.

S. rlagellifera, of which Mr. J. G. Baker, in his
excellent monograph of the Selagiuellas, in the
handbook of Fern Allies, says is a form of plumosa,
introduced from Fiji. We find it sometimes cul-
tivated in English ferneries — for iustance, iu the
far-famed fernery of Messrs. Birkenhead, at Sale,
near Manchester. We also received most of the
following described species from Messrs. Birkenhead.
S. rlagellifera is valuable for the same purposes as
plumosa.

S. tassellata. Hort. Bull, is one of the most
interesting species we know of. The lateral fronds

Nursery Notes.

CARNATIONS AT EXMOUTH.

The winter-blooming varieties of Carnations may
be easily grown if the necessary convenience for
then' cultivation is available. It is best to cultivate
them iu considerable quantity, aud devote a good
portiou of a house, or, better still, the whole of it,
to the accommodation of the plants. The exact
attention aud treatment they require can then be
giveu them, without reference to the needs of other
plants. Satisfactory results may then be confidently
anticipated.

I had lately the pleasure to see the collection of
Mr. W. J. Godfrey, at the Claremont Nursery,
Exmouth, aud was surprised to find so fine a dis-
play of bloom there. The vigour of these plants
and their free-blooming qualities enable me to
recommend the varieties as most desirable ones to
acquire. They have been raised by M r. Godfrey.
Amoug the white -flowering sorts Pearl Beauty is
promineut ; it has large aud full flowers, of fine
form, and pure white in colour, they were also
sweetly scented. Lady Doreen Long is one of the
most handsome varieties ever introduced. The
colour is clear yellow, with a slight pencilling of
carmine-pink, very large, of rare substance, and a
very strong grower. Mrs. Richard Ley is rich
salmon-pink, with smooth and even petals. Miss
Nita Bloxsome is in colour similar to Madame
Therese Franco, but is more robust and free flower-
ing, aud the blooms are smoother. Many growers
are discarding Madame Th. Franco for Miss Nita
Bloxsome. Miss Adam-Hogg is of most desirable
form ; the blooms are similar to those of Miss
Joliffe, but are larger, the colour is bright glowing
salmon, quite distinct, and very fragrant. The
plant is a dwarf and robust grower. Lady Gertrude
Rolle reminds one of the border variety Duchess of
Fife iu colour, but is of a richer aud more solid
rose-pink. Iu habit the plant is dwarf, robust, aud
very free ; it is oue of the very best of its colour.
Nellie Stevens is in colour similar to the blush
Malmaison, perfect in form ; the petals are of good

March 4, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

141

size and substance, and the flower charming.
Exmouth Gem lias blooms of large size, of pale
salmon-pink colour; Mrs. Herbert Stewart is a
very handsome flower, measuring nearly 3 inches
across, and is one of the most striking. The colour
is rich rosy carmine, and is distinct and attractive.
Exmouth Scarlet is a decided improvement ou
Winter Cheer, the colour being brighter, and the
plants have more of the tree habit with them. Mr.
Godfrey is now working up a stock of this variety
as rapidly as possible. All other varieties, too,
are being increased in large quantities. There are
thousands of plants that were struck in heat last
November that are now potted into thumbs and
large 3-iuch pots. In the propagating pits there are
even greater quantities now making roots. The
healthy condition of the plants was very observ-
able, and no disease was seen. Batches of the
dwarf, yet free-flowering Godfrey Eichardia, are full
of spathes, though evepyday quantities of blooms
are cut from them. W. Swan,

Primulas at Farniiam Royal.
How pleasant is it to look over a fine collect ion
of Chinese Primroses under the bright light of a
high country district ! Messrs. James & Sons,
whose houses are on high ground, enjoy pure air
and freedom from smoke, do not grow plants strong
or very large ; every one of the mauy hundreds here
are in 48's, the object being, of course, to promote
good blooin-production on compact form and foliage,
and thus facilitate fertilisatiou and seed production.
For the Primula naturally flowers iu tin- winter,
and because of the absence of insects—and a desir
able absence too for the grower — artificial fertilisa-
tion has to be performed, the whole of the plants
being gone over repeatedly whilst in bloom. The
plants are for this purpose placed in blocks of
strains and colours, and whether few or many,
almost every one in its place seems to In- tin'
duplicate of the other. Some sparing varieties
produce hut little seed, due doubtless to the long
continuance of in-breeding ; but that fact may help
to induce breeders or raisers not to be too con-
tinuous in such matters lesl they defeat their object
eventually by producing strains that are absolutely
barren. With these tender plants we are dependent
entirely on seed for propagation, hence the im-
portance of securing good seed producers, as well as
flue flowers. Xo doubt the moderate culture, pure
air, aud light, found at Farnham Royal, conduce
in a high degree to success in this matter. The
new stellata or pyramidal forms, seeds most freely,
and presents a good seed parent for crossing with
large-flowered varieties. Still, it would be a mis-
fortune were that pretty plant to suffer in form if
inter-crossing destroyed its free blooming pyramidal
habit, and reduced it to the level of the ordinary
florists' strains. The varieties here largely com-
prise the finest of the Reading slocks, and amongst
them are some superbly deep rich coloured forms,
such as Crimson King, deepest of all, the flowers of
fine form, rich crimson, having a clear lemon eye,
round which runs a belt of maroon ; this is new,
and wouderfully true to character. Next comes a
brilliant fiery red or scarlet that is a long way
superior to its progenitor, Chiswick Red. How a
mass of this glowed in the sunlight as with fire,
and was wouderfully effective '. Giant Terracotta,
really a rich carmine, is superb and does not dis-
colour ; and Giant Purple has splendid flowers of a
rich magenta hue, and is quite a gem of its shade.
The blue strain is here in strong evidence, quite a
rich aud striking lavender-blue ; aud one of the
loveliest is Giant l'iuk, a delightful, soft, rosy-pink
colour that commands warm admiration. Giant
Royal White, ou dark palmate leafage, is the finest and
purest of all the section ; it seems impossible to
excel this for size, or iu purity. There are many
others of the single forms grown, but all cannot
be indicated. Doubles arc fiue, especially the rich
blood-red, salmon or pink, aud the whites are both
dark and light green leafage. The former seems to
have the finest and purest flowers, but all the
stocks of the many strains are of the very best, aud
iu bulk make a beautiful show. I).

Scotland,

A WINTER GARDEN FOR ABERDEEN.

At the meeting of the Aberdeen Town Council
on Monday, the 10th ult., the Convener of the
Links aud Parks Committee moved the adoption of
a report by the City Architect with regard to the
proposed winter garden in the Duthie Public Park.
The building is to be 108 feet long, 30 feel wide,
with two side-wings of 30 feet iu length, by 30 feet
wide, with a circular dome iu the centre. Arrange-
ments will be made to allow of the different parts
ol the building being heated to different tempera-
tures. The total cost is £1550.

Natural History and Antiquarian Society of
Aberdeen.
Tli inks to the energetic and indefatigable efforts
of Dr. James W. H. Trail, Professor of Botany m
Aberdeen University, aud a few other local gentle-
men, a new era, from which the happiest results
are anticipated, will be inaugurated for this Society
on Friday evening, 24th iust. In anticipation of
Friday's meeting, 117 ladies and gentlemen have
been added to the membership of the Society. Of
this number some two-thirds reside in and about
Abcrdeeu, the other third being resident in, or
connected with the surrounding counties. At
the meeting on the "24th inst, a short address
was given by Professor Trail, on the work and
place in Aberdeen of the Society, and there was
an exhibition of objects of interest in the botanical
rooms of Marischal College, where the Society intend
holding their meetings. The office-bearers of the
Society are as follows : President, Professor Trail ;
Vice-presidents, Mr. William Ferguson, LL D., of
Kinmuudy ; aud Mr. ileorge Sim, naturalist,
Aberdeen. Members of executive : Dr. Alexander
Brown, Mr. W. Forest, Mr. Alexander Mackie, and
Dr. \V. 11. Williamson.

Law Notes.

FRAUD ON CHARD NURSERYMEN.

At Birmingham Quarter Sessions, on Monday.
before Mr. T. S. Soden, Deputy-Recorder, John

Sexton, 40, salesman, was charged with obtaining,
by false pretences, from Messrs. Jarman & Co.,
nurserymen, of Chard, forty eight Apple-trees, and
seventy-two Rose-trees, value i'7, with intent to
defraud. Mr. Stubbins prosecuted, and Mr.
McCardie (instructed by Mr. I oode) defended.

The first witness called for the prosecution was
Mr. H. Seagon, who stated that he was the repre-
sentative of Messrs. Jarman at their stand at the
cattle show, Bingley Hall, Birmingham. While
there, either on November 'J!l or 30, the prisoner
gave him an order for four dozen Apple - trees,
£.">, and six dozen Roses, £2 : at the same time
handing him a memorandum form which stated
that the prisoner was a grocer and provision mer-
chant at 10, Edward Street, Redditch, with ware-
house at Unicorn Hill. Ou these representations
Mr. Seagon accepted the order, and the goods were
despatched from Chard on December 20, packed iu
one crate, one basket, and oue bundle. The witness
further identified a memorandum form on which
the prisouer had written to Messrs. Jarman ou
December 29 for seven dozen dwarf Roses under
the name of "J. W. Johnson, grocer and provision
merchant, 2, Gough Road, Sparkbrook, Birming-
ham." Messrs. Jarman's suspicions, however, being
aroused, these trees were not sent.

Various witnesses were called to prove that the
prisouer neither carried on a business of grower or
provision merchant at the addresses given, or .
possessed auy trade stock whatever.

The prisoner stated that the Rose-trees wero
ordered by him for a Mrs. Johnson, but Mrs.
Johnson's "garden" consisted of a bricked yard
at the back of the house of about 14 by 10 feet.

Mr. McCardie contended that prisoner made hond
fide purchases, but was merely unable to pay.

Two goods porters were called to prove that the
prisoner rc-consigned the trees from Redditch
Street to Messrs. Parker, Kirkam & Parker,
Auctioneers, 35, Temple Street, Birmingham.

Mr. Parker, auctioneer, stated that the prisoner
wrote him, saying that he had some trees for sale,
and asked him to include them in his sale of the
following day or so, but the trees arrived too late,
and were consequently held over till January 5.
In the interval prisoner came to Mr. Parker and
asked for an advance on the trees, which was
refused. A day or so afterwards Mr. Parker had
some of the trees unpacked, and found on them
labels bearing Messrs. Jarmau's name, and being
somewhat suspicious, he communicated with
Messrs. Jarman, with the result that the latter
firm placed the matter in the hands of the police.
The trees, having been out of the ground so long,
were dried up, shrivelled, and fetched only £2 3s.

The jury fouud the prisoner guilty on both
counts, and the Deputy-Recorder sentenced him to
six mouths' imprisonment, with hard labour.

©bituary?.

REV. CANON Du PORT. Another of-the older
generation of British mycologists has passed away
in the person of the Rev. Canou Du Port, who died
at Denver Rectory, in the couuty of Norfolk, on
February 21, 1899. .lames Mourant Du Port, the
son of James Du Port, Assistant Treasurer of the
Mates of Guernsey, was born at St. Peters Port on
April 14, 1832. He was educated at Elizabeth
College, from whence he obtained a scholarship at
Cains College, Cambridge. He took his B. A. in
1855, being tenth wrangler, and subsequently
became Dean of his College. He was Hebrew
lecturer from 1855 to 1862. In the latter year he
was appointed to the vicarage at Mattishall, where
he remained till 1884, when he became rector of
Denver, In 1881 he was made Honorary Canon of
Norwich, and in 1890 Rural Dean. Throughout
his life he was keenly interested in natural science.
For a long series of years he conducted meteoro-
logical observations both at Mattishall and Denver.
His greatest pleasure, however, was in the study of
botany. Not only did he possess a sound practical
knowledge of the phanerogams of his own country,
but also the floras of France and Switzerland, as
well as that of Egypt received his attention. He
was best known, however, as a fuugologist, and for
many years was a regular attendant at the fungus
forays of the Woolhope Club,-of which field club
he was an honorary member. His knowledge of
Latin was greatly appreciated by his fellow-members,
aud it was always at their service, for lie spared no
trouble iu unravelling the intricacies of the descrip-
tions of the " Hymenomycetes " and " Mono-
graphia. " Always ready to help, hisgenial manner
and kindhearteduess made him a universal favourite
amongst the Woolhopians. For many years he was
a member of the Societe Mycologique de France,
and attended several of the forays, notably in 1887,
1S91, and 1896, where his kuowledge of the French
language stood him iu good stead. Mainly in-
terested in the Hymenomycetes, there was nothing
in the shape of a fungus which came amiss to him.
One of the species found by him at Mattishall,
Russula Du Porti, was named after him. It is
figured in Cooke's Illustrations, pt. 1042. He con-
tributed the following papers, " On some species of
Tricholoma not easily distinguished " ( Woolhope
Trans., 18S3) ; "On the colours of the fungi as
indicated by the Latin words used by Fries " (Ih.,
p. 113); "The unexpected appearauce of two
species of fungi in a field quite recently under cul-
tivation " (76., 1S90, p. 122); "On the fungoid
diseases of cereals" (Norfolk and Noneieh Trans.,
18S0, p. 194) ; " On some of the rarer fungi found
near Mattishall in 1880" (lb., p. 200); "On a
remarkable appearance of fungi " (/'•. , 1 893, p. 558 .
O. B. P.

142

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 4, 1899.

Major H. L. Barton, D.L., J.P. — With
deep regret we have to record the death of Major
Barton*, of Straffan House, eo. Kildare, on the
23rd ult. He was laid to rest in the family grave
at Straffan Church on Tuesday, the 28th ult. , and
by bis express wish the coffin was conveyed
thither borne on one of the carts from the home
farm at Irishtown. This vehicle was paiuted
black, and draped very tastefully, and the coffin
upon it was covered with fresh foliage and flowers,
in the shape of wreaths and tokens from friends.
Major Barton was 75 years of age, having been
born at Bordeaux in 1S'2.3, but he had lived on
his Straffan estate for many years, and thoroughly
enjoyed and liberally supported both farm and
garden. His celebrated breed of Shorthorns, was well
known throughout the British Isles. Although a
very enthusiastic sportsman, the garden under the
more immediate care of the Hon. Mrs. Barton,
was also a never-failing source of pleasure and
interest to him. The Dog- wood, and the Cardinal
Osiers are very bright and cheerful beside the river
at Straffan just now, and the Snowdrops also under
the great Lime-trees on the lawn. Deceased's
widow, the Hon. Anna Barton, was a sister of the
late and of the present Lord Clariua, and is widely
known for her appreciation of horticulture.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

February 28.— Tuesday last was preceded by so cold a
night, that the display made at the usual fortnightly meeting
was less In extent than the preceding one. Visitors were
numerous, and not a few of them stated that their ther-
mometers had registered as much as 15° of frost ; conse-
quently, it was not surprising that exhibitors, especially
those who would have brought the warmer-growing Orchids,
were not prepared to incur the risk that would have attended
the bringing of their plants in quantity to Westminster.
Nevertheless, there was a moderate show of Orchids, and the
Orchid Committee recommended the awards of two First class
Or ili. -ate* and five Awards of Merit. The Floral Com-
mittee recommended the award of a First-class Certificate to
a pure white, double flowered variety of Prunus persica, and
Awards of Merit to Rhododendrons x Hercules and Exquisite,
each of them valuable varieties of the hybrids obtained from
R. javanicum There were groups of Cyclamens, Cinerarias,
Narcissus, and other hardy plants and Howers.

The exhibits before the Fruit and Vegetable Committee
were of little interest.

In the afternoon an interesting lecture upon the " Colours
of Insects-' was given by Mr. Blake, and the Bubject was
freely illustrated with lantern views.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq., Chairman; and Messrs. Geo.
Paul, R. Dean, Wm. Howe, Jas. Hudson, J. F. McLeod, J.
.lennings, Chas. T. Druery, C. J. Salter, Thos. Peed, H. Self.-
Leonard, W. Main, J. 1). Pawle, C. R. Fielder, .las. Walker,
Chas.E. Shea, E. T. Cook, Herbert J. Cutbush, Harry Turner,
John Fraser, E. H. Jenkins, and J. W. Harr.

Messrs. W. Paul 4 Son, Waltham Cross Nurseries, Herts,
showed some prettily-flowered plants in pots of Primus, P.
triloba, P. Myrobalaiia rosea plena, 4e. P. triloba is a very
double pink-coloured flower upon shoots with partially
developed leaves, and suitable for cutting. Several varieties
of the Peach with pink and deep rose-coloured flowers were
attractive, as also was the double Almond. Pyrus Mains Hori-
bunda is an effective flowering shrub, by reason of its
excessive freedom in producing bloom. Forsythia suspensa,
one of the prettiest of the Forsythias, was also shown. The
group was laced by plants of variegated Privet and Euonymns
(Silver-gilt Banksian Medal).

Mr. F. Miller, 110, Fulham Road, South Kensington.
London, made a tine show with Cinerarias, exhibiting dwarf
freely-flowered plants of brilliant colours. These were inter-
spersed with Ferns; and there were cut Narcissus blooms,
Freesias, various floral designs, and wreaths (Silver Banksian
Medal).

Messrs. Sander & Co., St. Albans, exhibited Acalypha
hispida (Sanderi) as a standard, with a clear stem of about
2} feet, afterwards several branches, all ol which were well
flowered.

A tine display of Cyclamens was made by the St. George's
Nursery Company, Hanwell, London, W. This group of
about six score plants represented a strain remarkable for the
size of its flowers, and for the decided colours they present.
The extra-large size or giant strain that is not at present asso-
ciated with the best of form, may be capable of improvement
in the latter respect. The fimbriated strain was also repre-
sented, but the value of the exhibit consisted most in the
florist's normal varieties (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal).

From Purnell PuRKEIL, Esq., Woodlands, Streatham
Hill, S.W., was shown a very large group of Narcissus in
pots, and a smaller one of Cinerarias. A most commendable
amateur's exhibit, that was recommended a Silver Flora
Medal.

Mr. Thos. S. Ware, Ltd., Hale Farm Nurseries, Totten-
ham, showed a group of Narcissus in pots ; some of the more
popular varieties were represented by strongly-grown plants,
and we also noticed in this exhibit a plant in flower of Orchis
fusca, a purple-flowered species with large and broad green
leaves;varieties of CyclamenAtkinsii, bluish-flowered Primulas,
the very dwarf-growing Gaultheria procumbens, 4c. (Vote of
Thanks).

Messrs. Barr & Sons, 12, King Street, Covent Garden,
London, had a similar exhibit, but included, in addition,
plants of Lachenalias, Chinese Primulas, Cinerarias, 4c. The
curious Iris tuberosa, with purple and green flowers, was
represented by cut blooms, and the earliest of the Anemones
and Chionodoxas were shown in pots (Vote of Thanks).

Messrs. Paul 4 Son, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, showed
forced plants of Lilac alba grandiflora, also plants of Helle-
bores caucasicus punctatus, and a number of varieties; and
H. orientalis, Saxifraga lutea purpurea, S. Boydi alba.
Megasea Straeheyi, &c, and two beautiful blooms of
L'Innocence H. T. Rose.

From Mr. Jno. Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Surrey,
was exhibited a group of plants of a fine white-flowering
variety of Viburnum Tinus (Laurustinus). The plants were
dwarf standards and bushes, and all of them were full of
bloom ; Skimnra Fortunei, well berried ; and Hedera arborea
fructu-luteo, a large-leaved Ivy, with yellow berries, were
likewise included in the group.

Messrs. Root. Veitch & Son, Exeter, exhibited blooms of
Primula floribunda var. Isabella, with larger and paler
blooms than the type, being cream-coloured instead of
yellow.

Some splendidly cultivated Violets of the varieties Marie
Louise and Neapolitan were shown by Lady Margaret Bos.
uawen, Tregye, Perranwell, Cornwall, for which a Cultural
Commendation was awarded.

Beautiful sprays of Asparagus Sprengeri, with white and
red berries, were shown by Mr. J. Hudson, gr. to Leopold
de Rothsuhii.d, Esq., Gumiersbury House, Acton (Cultural
Commendation). Mr Hudson also exhibited a tine variety id'
Clivea named " Vivia."

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea,
exhibited a small group ol plants in pots of a most decorative
variety of the reach named Prunus Persica magnifies. The
flowers are very large, and in odour deep red. Messrs. Veuoh
also showed a plant in flower of Hippeastrum procerum, a
Crinum-like plant with lilac-coloured flowers. It is a native
or South Brazil.

AWARDS.

Prnnm p a rulgarU alba flore-pleno. —This is a beautiful

white-flowered Peach, with large-sized double hi. s. The

plant exhibited by Messrs. W. Paul 4 Son, Walthain Cross,
was dwarf an. i very freely flowered, being a most decorative
object (First-class Certificate).

Rhododendron Hercules.— A greenhouse Rhododendron of
the R. jasuiiuiuorum X javanicum group of hybrids. In
clour the flowers are a shad.- of apricot-yellow, but the
stunens and anthers being red, afford a pleasing contrast.
Bach flower is from 'Jj to 2J inches across, and most ..I' then.
possess six or seven petals in place of the usual number, live.
A plant of considerable size was exhibited, and bearing several
large trusses of flowers, afforded ample proof of the decorative
qualities ol this variety (Award of Merit). From Messrs. JAS.
VEITCH 4 Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea.

Rhododendron x Exquisite.— This is a hybrid, we are

inter .1, from the two species R. .javanicum and R. T^ys-

maiini from Sumatra. The flowers ol this hybrid are a little
less in size than those of R. x Hercules, and the colour is a
shade ..f bright yellow, approaching golden. The anthers-
have a considerable effect, being purple. It is a valuable
addition to these beautiful Rhododendrons that Messrs. .las.
Veitch 4 S..ns, and their Mr. Heap, have oiiginated (Award
of Merit).

Orchid Committee.

1'resenl: Harry .1. Veitch, Esq., ill the Chair ; and Messrs.
J. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De li. Crawshay, T. B. Haywood,
W. Thompson, H. T. Pitt, A. Outran., J. Douglas, E. Hill,
II. .1. Chapman, H. Little, II. Williams, H. Ballantine,
F. J. Thome, Norman C. Cookson, and Major Mason.

A dull, foggy, frosty morning, led us to -oppose that
Orchids would not be abundant at this meeting, but on the

contrary they fori 1 a very interesting and showy part of the

sain.'.

Continental cultivators were represented by M. Ciias.
Maron, of Briiuoy, Seine-et-Oise, France, the raiser of so
many line hybrids. Two of his plants fairly eclipsed his
former elTorts. \iz, La4in-Cattleya x Emesti var. Princess
Olga (Cattlnya Pereivaliana 9 , Lielia tiava<5), one of the most
charming hybrids of its class, with bright chrome yellow
flowers, the lip having an orange base, and dark, red-brown
marking ; and L.-C. x callistoglossa var. J. Leemann (L. pur-
purata var. X C. Warscewiczii imperialist, one or the most
gorgeous of hybrid Laelio-Cattleyas ; and both of which
secured the highest award. Mr. Maron also showed a tine
plant of.the true Cypripedium concolor tonkinense, with
clear yellow flower, fully one-third larger than the ordinary
C. concolor.

M. Jules Hve-Levsen, Coupure, Ghent (gr., Mr. Coeu),
sent a fine three- flowered inflorescence of Odontoglossum
erispum Franz-Masereel, cultivated up to the highest s»ate of

perfection, its flowers being for the greater part of a rich rose-
crimson, delicately picked out with white. So marked'was
the improvement Mr. Jules Hye's cultivation had made, that
the committee recommended a Silver Medal for it. Mr.
Jules Hve also showed Cypripedium " Surprise," a handsome
yellow hybrid.

Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Staines (gr., Mr. H.
Ballantine), showed a charming yellow Odontoglossum, which
Professor Reichenbach had named O. X Vuylstekianuin, but
which was adjudged to be an O. x Wilckeanum ; also the rare
natural hybrid O. x Cookeanuin, and a yellow form of O.
Pescatarei, or, more correctly, an unspotted O. x excellens.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch 4 Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, King's
Road, Chelsea, showed four hybrid Phahenopsis, viz., P. x
Cassandra (Stuartiana 9 , rosea a"), P.x Aria lne(Stuartiana 9,
Aphrodite 6" ), P. X Mrs. Jas. Veitch, illustrated in the last
issue of the Gardeners' Chronicle; and P. x Hebe, a neat
flower of the P. intermedia class.

W. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone, Staffordshire
(gr., Mr. W. Stevens), showed a small group of grand Odou-
toglossuins, for which a Silver Banksian Medal was awarded.
It contained Odontoglossum x excellens spectabile, a noble
variety, the leading bulb bearing two fine spikes (Cultural
Commendation); O. x Wilckeanum concinnum, line yellow,
with brown-red blotches; O. x Coradiuei expansion, the
finest of its class ; and O. erispum Daphne and O. c. Dorothy,
two very handsome spotted forms, the latter asm ill plant,
which should develop into a very fine thing.

Messrs. Hugh Low 4 Co., Bush Hill Park, were awarded a
Silver Banksian Medal for a good group, which consisted
principally of line forms of Cattleya Trianiei ; with them
were good examples of Cattleya Dowiana, Lielia harpophylla,
L. cinnabarina. Odontoglossum erispum, O. Andersonianum,
Cypripedium insigne Sandene, C. x Marshaliianiini, and
various Dcndrobinins, including the old but still uncommon
D. nobile Tollianum.

F. Knight, Esq., Thnndersley House, Essex (gr., Mr.
Marston), showed a group of good forms of Cattleya Triamei,
L.elia glauca, I . superbieus, and Odontoglossum Rossii majus
(Bronze Banksian Medal).

,1. T. Bennett-PoB, Esq., HomewooJ, Cheshunt (gr., Mr.
Downes), showed a group of well-grown plants of Cypripe-
dium x LaThaniianuiu, C. X villosum, 4c.

He B. Crawshay, Esq., Rosefield. Sevenoaks (gr., Mr. S.
Cooke), showed Odontoglossum x Ruckerianum Crawshay.
anuin, a grand form ; O. x Andersonianum Bagaerdianuin,
and O. Rossii Crawsha) annul, both good,

E. Stanley Clark, Esq., Oak Alyn, Wrexham, North
Wal.-s(gr., Mr. J. Edwards), showed odontoglossum erispum
■■Mrs. Stanley Clark," a very finely blotched form; O.
Rossii rubescens, and a hybrid Cypripedium (callosum x
Boxalli atratum).

Sir Wm. Marriott, The Down House, Blandford (gr., Mr.
Denny), again showed Sophm-Ludia X Marriott (S. grand!-
Hon X L. flav.i), with bright yellow flower.

I). M. Grimsdale, Esq., LTxbridge (gr., Mr. A. Kitwell),

showed good Odontoglossm aculatum, 0. triumphans, O.

luteo-pnrpureuin sceptrum, Cypripedium Mastersianum, and
C. villosum aureuin. Major Joicey, Suuningdale Park(gr.,
Mr. Fred .1 Thome), showed a flower of Lycaste linguelhi, a
li.-.. greenish flower, with whitish lip, having a thick callus ;
also llei.drobiiun atrovioliceui. . and I.ycaste plana. G. Thump-
s..v, Esq., Stamford Hill (gr., Mr. Johnson), showed a good
form ol* Ocd'obinni nobile. Mis. Ball, Cheadle, Cheshire,
sent a hybrid lieu Irobinin. .1. Rutherford, Esq.,
M.I1., Ba.irdwood, Blackburn (gr., Mr. J. Lupton), showed
Cattleya Triaiis-i Itulhei for.liana, fine in form and colour.
II. Shaw, Esq., Birch Vale, near Stockport (gr., Mr. J. Clift'e),
sent Odontoglossum luteo-purpurenm. W. Gould, Esq.,
Hylield, near Stockport, sent Lielia glauca.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, showed a well-
flowered plant of the singular fringed Dendrobium Har-
v.'vaniun.

AWARDS.

Loilio-Cattleya ■: Emesti "Princess O'ga" (Cattleya Pre-
eivaliana 9, Lielia Hava 6"). from M. Chas. Maron, Brunoy,
fiance. A flower of extraordinary beauty ; plant approaching
I., tlava in character; [lowers nearly as large as those of C. Per-
eivaliana, but with narrower segments ; sepals and petals
bright chrome-yellow ; lip crimped orange at the base, the
centre marked with bright brownish-red. The plant bo-e
two spikes, each with three flowers, borne on scapes some
4 inches in height (First-class Certificate).

Lcelio-Cattleya x callistoglossa "J. Leemann " (Lielia pur-
pnrata var. x Cattleya Warscewiczii imperialis) from M. Chas,
Maron. Flower of the largest of any of the Lffilio-Cattleyas ;
s'pals and petals light-rose; lip very broad and finely
expanded, of a rich dirk claret-crimson (First-class Certifi-
cate).

Odontoglossum x Ruckerianum Crawshayanwn, from De B.
CrXwshay, Esq. (gr., Mr. S.Cook). One of the handsomest of
its section. Flowers, large, light yellow tinged with dark
rose, especially on the reverse side, and handsomely spotted
with dark brownish-red (Award of Merit).

Odontoglossum < Wilckeanum " The Dell variety" from Baron
Sir 11. Si urodkr (gr., Mr. H. Ballantine). Flowers, bright
canary-yellow, the petals and lip finely fringed. Resembling
a yellow O. erispum (Award of Merit).

Odontoglossum x Cogkeanum (nat. I.yb., O. triumphans x O.
gloriosum), from Baron Sir H. Schroder. A pretty yellow
flower, spotted with chestnut red (Award of Meril).

Odontoglossum x Coradtnei expansum, from W. Thompson,
Esq., Walton Grange, Stone, Staffordshire (gr., Mr. W.
Stevens). A showy form, with large cream-white flowers
spotted with brown, and of thick texture (Award of Merit).

March 4, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

113

Oypripedivm x Surprise (Sallieri Hyeatium x Spiceriamiiu),
from M. Jules Hye-Leysen, Ghent, (gr., Mr. Coen). A fine
i lypripedium, resembling a large yellow C. insignc, but with
more of the form ofC. Spicerianum, and white upper portion

to the dorsal sepal (Award of Merit).

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: Geo. Bunyard, Esq., chairman; ami Messrs. J.
Willard, J. Smith, F. Q. Lane. Geo. Wythes, S. Mortimer,
P. C. M. Veiteh, A. H. Pearson, E. Shaw Blaker, W. Poupart,
.las. H. Veiteh, Jos. Cheal, W. Wilks, Robt. Fife, and Alex.
Dean.

Mr. R. C. Notcut, Broughton Road Nursery, [pswich,
showed a dish of frnits of a stewing Pear under Hi.' mine ot
Winter Orange, and described as a probable seedling from
Verulam. The fruits were of moderate size, deep brown in
colour, and some stewed specimens were pronounced by the
committee to be very good. The fruits will be again exhi-
bited at the next meeting, and if found to be distinct, the
variety may possibly be given an award.

Messrs. R. Vkitih & Son, Exeter, exhibited some fruits of
Mannington Pearniain Apple, said to have been obtained
from the original tree. The fruits were very dissimilar to the
variety now in commerce under the above name.

Another Apple named "Rouen" was sent by Mr. II. T.
Martin, Stoneleigb Abbey Gardens, Kenil worth.

A large and good sample of Salsafy was shown by Messrs.
R. Veitch &Son. It was described as Sandwich Island Salsafy,

lint bad, no doubt, been cultivated in England from 9 Is

obtained from that island.

Appliances for the manufacture of ozone for insecticide
purposes was shown by Mr. J. II. Lahfrev, Brockley, Kent.
In the generation of ozone, a disagreeable perfume is given
off, which is said to kill green-fly, and many other insects.
The appliances were not generally considered to be of prac-
tical use for the purpose.

Lecture.

THE COLOUR OF INSECTS
In the afternoon a lecture upon "The Colour of Insects,
their Meaning and Use," was given by Mr. II. I.. T. Blake.

'1'he subject was freely illustrated by lantern view, ol a si

interesting character, and in the course of the led are Mr.
Blake described and illustrated instances in insects of (1)
Protective resemblance ; (2) Aggressive resemblance! (S) Pro-
tective mimicry ; (4) Warning colours of insects that are not
preyed upon by other insects or animals; (5) Instances of
several methods of defence being possessed by one insect or
caterpillar. The chair was taken by Sir John T. D. Llewelyn .
lit , and subsequently some interesting remarks were made
upon the subject by the Rev. Prof. Hcnslow.

Minor and North Africa, once both fertile and populous ; and
by the cultivation at present of large areas of the globe, he
said the land was being laid open to rapid denudation by the
action of running water, &c.

BEADING & DISTRICT GARDENERS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.
By the aid of limelight-views, and under the guidance of
Mr. C. H. Cl'ims (an old Kewite), of the editorial staff of the
Gardeners' Magazine, a large number of members of tic above
Association spent a pleasant evening recently at the club-
room of the old Abbey Restaurant in listening to an account
of the houses and grounds of Kew Gardens.

EDINBURGH FIELD NATURALISTS'
AND MICROSCOPICAL.

February 22.— The fourth meeting of the Society this
session was held on the above date, in the Hall, 20, George
Street : Mr. W. C. Crawford, President, in the chair.

An account of a bryological excursion to Ben Lawers last
June was given by Mr. A. Murray, who, alonj^ with another
member, had encamped on the Ben for two days, with the
purpose of collecting mosses. They began their collection at
the Larieh burn, every Iree. bank, mck, and dyke being
covered with them. One rock was curtained with magnificent
specimens of Antitrichia curtipendula, which hung over it in
festoons a foot in length. Numerous yellow green patches of
Bartrainia arcuata, generally dwarf and always barren,
covered the banks. Mr. Murray and his friend made a very
large collection of species during their short trip, ami most of
them, pressed and mounted, were exhibited at the meeting.
Some of the best finds were Splachuum vaseulosum, Tetra-
plodon ninioides, and Buxbaumia aphylla. It may interest
lovers of Ferns to know that many very finely-cut forms of
the Brittle-bladder Fern, the Maidenhair Spleenwort, with
fronds a foot long ; the black Spleenwort, the Alpine Holly
Fern, Wilson's Filmy Fern, Are., were noticed. And among the
blowing plants may be mentioned Cerastium alpinum, Armeria
alpina, Rhodiola rosea, Lychnis alpina, Silene acaulis, Thalic-
trnm alpinum, Saxifraga nivalis, s. oppositifolia, s. aizoides,
S. hypnoides, S. ciespitosa, and S. stellaris ; Myosotis alpestris
near the top, and a perfect cushion of highly coloured Azalea
procumbens ; Rubus chameemorus, Cornus sueeica, and
Meum athamanticum, the last plant tilling the air with its
peculiar odour. Highland cattle are very fond of feeding on the
leaves and fruits, their aromatic flavour being communicated
to the milk of the cows. Its root is eaten by the natives as a
carminative and stomachic.

Mr. Campbell followed with a paper on " Some Geological
Agents, with Illustrations of their Work." The principal
agents, he said, were water in the form of ice and as running
water, the sea, sand, and plants. Man's action had been the
cause of the large tracts of desert land now existing in Asia

HEREFORDSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF
FRUIT GROWERS AND HORTICUL
TURISTS.

February 22.— A well attended meeting of fruit glowers
and fanners was held at Hereford on the above date, for the pur-
posj of founding a Fruit-growers Association for Herefordshire.
The Mayor of Hereford presided, supported by Sir James
Rankin, M.P., Mr. c. W. Radcliffe Cooke, M.P., Mr. J. Riley,
and Mr. Bcddoe.

Sir James Rankin, M.P., proposed " Tint an association t .. -
forme 1, and thai it he called the Herefordshire Association of
Fruit-growers and Horticulturists." He considered the
County of Hereford was a good county for the cultivation of
fruit, but it had no large centre* of population in the
immediate neighbourhood where the fruit could be marketed.
He would like them to understand, if they formed an associa-
tion of this sort, they must combine in earnest, and every-
body must try to do what he could to forward the objects of
He1 association. Small fruits, he was sorry to see, had
generally decreased in cultivation, and there must be more
attention paid to the cultivation of the Apple and Pear.

Herefordshire was almost pre-eminent for the cultivation
of cider Apples. He assured them the Technical instruction

'' tnittee of the County Council, of which he had the honour

to be the chairman, was affording information and instruction
on fruit-growing, ami that the secretary, who was present,
woidd do all he could to promote the objects of the associa-
tion. The Technical Instruction Committee would b^ able
to do work to a much larger extent if it received more
encouragement. Cultivation of fruit by cottagers was a most
important point to encourage. II- remembered a tenant of
his cultivating three quarters of an acre, and making £20 a
year profit; and if this could bedone by one, there was no
reason a good many others might not do the sane-. They
must not forget that there was a serious amount of competi.

tion from abroad to flghi against, especially in hard fruits;
but with small fruits, which did not carry so well, we had not
so much to fear, and this should stimulate their cultivation.

Mi. .1. Riley seconded the resolution. He gave particulars
of si. .in •- of his failures in fruit-growing during the past twenty
years, aid remarked that if an association similar to whai he
understood it was proposed to -tot bad then been working,
several failures and much needless expense might have 1,-en
Baved him. Th>- association might beof much use in recosn
mending suitable vai ieties of fruit t>, plant, and in indicating
what stocks should he us id for them. The railway companies
had the power to make or mar tic English fruit trade. With an
association of fruit growers they would have a better chance of

dealing with the railway c panics, win would pay i ,■

attention to an association "t several hundred members than
to on., individual. As reg irds pruning, he found difficulty in
multiply ing hands for this work, and something might be done
in this direction. Tim Resolution was then adopted by the
meeting.

Mr. Radcliffe Cooke, M.P., proi d the comprehensive

resolution of the various objects of the association. After
enumerating them, he proceeded to say that lie was quite in
favour of such associations, as f,,r many years past he had
endeavoured to persuade the Government of this countn to

do something t courage and assist fruit-growing, and if

possible, to follow the example of the Government of Canada,
who had five experimental fruit farms; other things were

grown on them, but chiefly fruit. The result was that f

the first things anyone taking land would do would be to \ isit
the nearest of these experimental srati,,nsT where he would
get valuable advice as to what to plant, and thus avoid
experiments and possible failure. They would also supply
him with trees. Whenever he had made the suggestion to
ilir Cvernment to do something of this nature, or makes
grant to assist in starting such farms, he was always m -t with
the retort that it was md a matter for the Government ; that
it must first be taken up through the energy and enterprise
of the people themselves. They were now in Herefordshire
going to give a practical illustration of that, doctrine, viz.,
taking the initiative themselves. He had received an assut -
anee from Mr. Long that if the County Councils would act in
the same way as the Technical Instruction Committee, it was
possible they would be able to obtain a grant. He was so, ry
the County Council had not applied all the money in tech-
nical education that they might have done. Hereford-
shire had not applied half of the amount. Worcestershire
had applied all. Mr. Long had told him that if an experi-
mental farm were established for. say. the counties of Glou-
cester, Worcester, and Herefordshire, there was no doubt
the Government would give a grant towards it. The farmers
and growers, however, must make the beginning themselves.
This beginning they were making by forming the Associa-
tion. The resolution was carried.

Sir James Rankin, M.P.. was elected President of the Asso-
ciation. A committee was elected, and subsequently over
fifty of those present became members of the Society.

Dealing with the subject in a very interesting manner, Mr.
Pettigrew grouped the British plants as follows -1 Rock

plants; 2, Marsh plants; 3, Plants that love shade- 4 Svl-

vestral plants; 5, Riparian plants; 6, Gregarious plants: and

finally, a miscellan is race. Comparing our flora with that of

other countries, Mr.Pettigrew showed thed.-trimsntal influence
of cold upon the flora of any country. France boasted of 4 Too
species, whilst the larger area ol Norway and Sweden had only
1,857 species. Spitzbergen had lor spejies; whilst we could
number 1,832. He also grouped the flora according to the
different parts or the world in which the same species may he
found, suggesting the human ag-ncies whereby then up sence

here miy beexpla 1, bal tin tin.- a final solution in -eologj

Which proves that Britain was not originally in the splendid
isolation she at present enjoys, hnl was a part of the Europe ,i,
continent.

MANCHESTER HORTICULTURAL
IMPROVEMENT.

February 23.-A meeting was held in the Albert Memorial
Hall, Manchester, on the above data, when the prize esmys,
in a competition open to under gardeners within a 15 miles'
radius of Manchester, were read.

The winner of the 1st prize in the first division for gar.
der.ers over 22 years of age, was Setu Boroess. the Rookerj
Gardens. Pendleton, Manchester ; and in the second division
roi gardeners under 22 years of age, Geo. Parmer, Man-
chester Botanical Gardens. It was decided that the annual
summer picnic of the Society should take place al II iw kstone
Park, Lord Hill's seat in Shropshire.

THE ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN
FUND.
February 2I.-T.ie usual monthly meeting of the Executive
Committee took place at the Horticultural Club on the
above date.

Mr. William Marshall was unanimously elected Chairman
of the Committee for the year ensuing.

The following special donations were announced :— Mr M
Todd, Maitland street, Edinburgh, £33; Mr. H. J. Jones

Lwisiiam, £15 c. Bd ; .1. C brook, Esq., Lowndes Square'

S.W.. £10 Ilk.; W. Roupell, Esq., Brixton, £5 5s. J Leeds
Paxton Society, £3 .0,.; proceeds of concert organised by the
Chislehurst Gardeners' Improvement Association,].,! Mr. J
Lyne. ,C17 in.. ; Messrs. W. Thomson & Sons, Ltd. Cloven-
fords Box, £2 12s. 3.7.; Messrs J. Moss ,v So,,, Kelvedon
Essex, £1 Is.; Mr. W. Howe, Tie- Gardens, Park Hill House
Streatham, £1 ; Proprietors of Auderton's Hotel, Box 10s '■
and Mr. W. Wliittaker, Bridgewater, 10,.

The credentials of the guardians of the newly-elected
children on the Fund (in almost everycase the mother) were
examined and passed. This is a matter of great importance,
and ,,n,. t., which th.- committee give the closest possible
attention; and almost without exception, from the founda-
tion of the Fund, this duty has been performed in a
satisfactory manner.

BRISTOL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS.

February 23. — A large number of members met on the
above date to hear a lecture by Mr. W. W. Pettigrew, super-
intendent of Roath Park, Cardiff. The subject was " An
Evening with Our Native Plants," illustrated with limelight
views o*" photographs.

CHESTER PAXTON.

February 25.— At the usual fortnightly meeting held at
Hi, Grosvenoi Museum on the above date, Mr. Robert New-
stead, F.E.S., delivered a lecture to th,- members, entitled,

" Newly-Introduced Fruit and C id Pests, together with an

account of the San Jose Scale."

As an introduction to the subject, the lecturer gave a
risumt of the salient characters of insects generally, com-
paring them with the remarkable family of scale insects. A
series of well-known species were then shown, which, for the
aid of the horticulturist, were divided into three sections :—

(A.) Shield-bearing Coccids, in which the insects cover their
bodies with a tough, leathery covering or shield, as in the
'Mils,,! Scale," the circular s.-ale of the Plum, th,- "San
Jose Scale," &c.

(B.) Wax-bearing species, which protect their bodies with a
felting of white wax, as in the " Mealy-bugs," &c.

(C.) Naked species, as in th,- common " brown scales "
(Lecanium), and the Cushion-scale of the Vine(Pulvinaria), &c.
The lecturer pointed out that section A was most easily
destroyed with insecticides, or even with a still' brush, when
in the larval or young and unprotected stages, and that it
was very important the time of appearance of these larva-
should be noted, and remedial measures taken at the time or
their appearance.

With section B it was much more difficult, inasmuch as all
the stages of the insect were more or less protected, either
by a mealy, powdery substance, or by cottony secretions ol the
same waxy substance ; such insects, therefore, required more
drastic treatment, and constant application of insecticides.

Section C were undoubtedly the easiest of all to keep in
check with insecticides, from the fact the females were
always naked and unprotected. But Mr. Newstead alsi
pointed out the necessity for destroying the females before
they arrived at the egg-laying stage, otherwise the work of
destruction would be increased more than a thousand-fold,
as many of the females were capable of producing 2000 young.
A full account of the San Jose scale was given, together
with the recently-imported Japanese Cherry-scale, Diaspis
Amygdali, D. Cameli ; on Conifers, Fiorinia kewensis, new to
science, and several other interesting species.

The hon. secretary, Mr. G. P. Miln, proposed a very hearty
vote of thanks to Mr. Newstead for his admirable lecture,
which was accorded with acclamation.

144

THE GAB BE NEBS' CHBONICLE.

[March 4, 1899.

Presentation.— Mr. W. Miller, who recently
retired from the superintendence of Earl Craven's
gardens and estate at Combo Abbey, has been
presented by the workmen upon that estate with a
silver tea-pot and pencil-case.

Novelties.

Messrs. Sander offer for the first time Calla
leucoxantha, a cross between C. Elliottiana and ( !.
albo maculata, Ueropegia perforata, Cyperus fertilis,
Evodia elegans, an elegant Araliad from New
Guinea ; Helianthns mollis, a hardy perennial :
Leea Micholitzii, L. Roehriana, two noble tropical
climbers ; Macroscepis elliptica, Mikania Sanderi,
Panax aureum, P. P.alfouri, Passiflora pruinosa,
Areca Ilsemanni, Caryota Eumphiana var.
Albert!, Geonoma Pynaertiana, Kentia Kirs-
teniana, K. Sanderiana, Licuala Jeanenceyi,
Linospadix Petriekiana, Livistona Woodfordi,
Acalypha Godseffiaua, Anthurium bogotense,
Bowenia spectabilis serrnlata, Caladium albanense,
C. speciosum, C. venosum, Dracaena Cantleyi, D.
Godseffiana, Eustrepius latifolius, Graplopbyllum
pictum, Polygonum lauigerum, Mapania panda-
n.-efolia, Philodendron imperiale var. Laucheana.
Mauy of these, though now for the firs', time offered
in commerce, have been described or figured in
these pages, and several of them have been exhi-
bited at the Gbeut Quinquennial or the Temple
shows, so that their value has been adequately
tested. Various hybrid Begonias and Carnations are
also mentioned. When we add, in conclusion, that
in this list are included Acalypha hispida (Sander-
iana, liort.) and Watsonia iridifolia var. 0'Brieni =
\V. Ardernei, hort., we shall have said enough to
show that the importation of new plants, other
than Orchids, has not entirely ceased, and that this
list is one of the most remarkable that has ever
come under our notice.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Sander & Co., St. Albans. Herts— New Orchitis and other

. Plants
Millar. Bros., 20, Market Place, Hull— Sei ds.

Wm. Clibhan & Son, 10 and 12, Market Street, Mi Iieitei

Farm Seeds.
Kent & Brydon, Darlington — Fat in 9 :eds.
E. H. Krei.agf..&Son, Royal BIremhof Nurseries, Haarlem,
Holland— B igonias, Cininas, Dahlias, Gladiolus, Gloxinias,
Lilies, &c.
Ebw. Pynaert van Geert, Belgian Exotic Nurseries, Ghent
(English agent, Mr. A. ( tutram)— Wholesale list of general
nursery stock.
Wm. Cutbush .t Son, Highgate Nurseries, Loivlon, N.— (1)
Hardy, herbaceous, and bulbous plants; (2) Dahlias.
Cannas, Begonias, &c. ; ( '■) Roses and fruit tins.
Uivoire & Sons, 10, Rue d'Algene, Lyon, France New

varieties of Lob-lias, Dahlias, Coleus, Begonias, Sic.
.1. C. Schmidt, Erfurt, Germany— Horticultural requisites.
HitooVoiot, Leipzig. R., Nostiz Btrasse— Flowering plants

for furnishing cut blooms.
la m;i Cans, Casatecchio di Reno, Bologna, Italy Seeds of
hardy and greenhouse trees and shriihs, herbaceous
perennials, 4cc.
Harrison & Sons, Leicester— Farm Seeds.
\V. Goodliffe, Cambridge Nurseries, North Court Road,

Worthing- Plants ami bulbs.
S. Doe.iE & Son, Heathfiehl Gardens, Chester Bulbs and

flower-roots.
Louis Vieweo, Qnedlinburg, Gen ij -General riant Cata-
logue.

BASIC Slag. (Thomas Slag, German Slag, and
other terms! : 0. IS. Powell. This substance is
rich in phosphoric acid, and it may be used
earlier than superphosphate, as it is more soluble.
It may be used in conjunction with other arti-
ficials on Oats, laud to be laid down to grass,
meadow grass, Onions, Asparagus, all fruit trees,
and Potatos. Of course, if in excess it is
harmful.

Books: P. C. T). Gfeenhoust and Stom Plants, by
T. Baines, published by John Murray, London. —
P. K. John E. Sowerby's British Wild Flowers,

with short descriptive notes and coloured illus-
trations, out of print, but to be met with in the
old book shops. British Flora, and key, by
Beuthain and Hooker, furnished with wood-cuts,
published by L. Reeve & Co., Henrietta Street,
W.O. — Others next week.

Bow Bouquet: W.C.H., Cape Tovm. The only
bouquet that tallies with your description is the
feather-weight bouquet, which was recently re-
produced in the Gardeners' Chronicle. The
bouquet is composed of any light - weighing
flowers, such as Carnations, Hose-buds, Lily of
thr Valley, Orange blossoms, Orchids, Violets,
Gardenias, &c.

Cattleya : W. P. The disease is probably due to
some fungus, the nature of which has not yet
been determined. Isolate the plaut ; or, better
still, burn it.

Earth: H. P. The worms enclosed feed on decay-
ing vegetable matter, ami do not, we believe,
injure living plants.

Fn:s Falling from Pot ami Planted-out Plants :
G.\ //. Only the very small Figs — those of the size
of marrow-fat peas — remain on a tree through the
winter to any good purpose : and all others should
be removed as soon as the leaves fall. You must be
careful not to hasten growth by too much heat, top
or bottom. The latter should not exceed at this
date 76° to 78°, and you should be sure that root
growth has taken place generally before the top
heat is increased beyond 51°. The pot plants are
likely to afford summer Figs, but those that were
planted out and their roots disentangled and
spread about in the soil, cannot be of auy service
this year: at the least, they will .scarcely afford
a crop of early Figs, and much forcing will do
them more harm than good, although they may be
pushed along fast in the summer so as to mature
the wood in good time.

GAZANIA Sill: S. \V. You could obtain it from
Dammann & Co., nursery and seedsmen, Portici,
near Naples. It is a useful plant in its several
varieties, which are said to come true from seed ;
but, should they|not do so, late summer cuttings,
and old plants taken up anil potted would furnish
spring cuttings.

Grubs in the Soil: //. Perrett. The larva of
some species of weevil, very injurious to plants
by reason of their feeding on the roots. Turn
over the soil and turn in the fowls ; doing this
repeatedly. They harbour just under the surface.
If you have to use infested soil in pots, first bake
it to destroy grubs and eggs.

Land near a Brickfield i C B, It is not advis-
able to take laud near a brickfield if ordinary
nursery stock is to be grown, as the fumes from
the clamps have an injurious effect on arboreal

vegetation.

MareCHAL Niel Rose : B. .1 Son*. There is no
permanent cure of the gouty swelling at the point
of union. Excessive root-feeding tends to make
it worse. Try change of situation. If the excre
sconce splits, various fungi may enter. A stock
which would grow as fast as this Pose is what is
wanted, and we have not got that yet. Try slitting
the bark of the stock ; and work the Rose low
down on the stocks so as to get the budded pari
beneath the soil. Do not plant a Rose-stock low
in the soil unless the bud was put in low down.
Mareehal Niel might do on its own roots under
glass, but is too tender out of doors. It layers
readily, so that own-rooted plants can be obtained
in one season.

Mushrooms: A. II'. LaM. We figured a bunch, of

Mushrooms in our issue for June 18, 1808, which
numbered more than 100, aud weighed 5 lb. 2 ■ z.
So that your find is by no means unique, except-
ing that it grew ou an outside bed iti winter.

Names of Fruits : J. C. W.iSons. Apple, Cornish
Aromatic.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not an&vn rt d in
this issue an requested to be so good as to eonsult
the following number. — J. 'P. B. P. Deiulrobium
teretifolium, Queensland, yes! /'. A. P. — A. B.
1, Cupressus Lawsoniana; 2, Thuya orientalis
var. ; 3, Abies Nordmanniana : 4, Pscudotsuga
Douglasii ; 5, perhapsLonicera fragrant issima ; (i,
a seedling Hellebore. — Subscriber. Probably
Saxifiaga Stracheyi. — J. J. The white- veined
leaf, Fittonia argyroncura ; the other, Ruellia
Portelhe. //. P., Cassiobridge.. Odontoglossum

luteo-purpureum, and the best form of Odouto-
glossum nievium. — G. W. Cattleya Trian.ti. —
P. T. The Odoutoglossutn is a good form of O.
x Audersouianum ; the Cypripedium shows but
little departure from some of the forms of C. x
Crossianum. — T. T., Nuneaton. Oncidium
tetrapetalum. — G. K. K. Iris fimbriata. — IP. II".
1, Deadrohium x Ainsworthi ; 2, Dendrobium
Wardianum ; 3, Cattleya Luddemauniana, com-
mouly called C. speciosissima ; 4, Dicksouia
antarctica. — /. B., Wilts. I, 2, and 3, all very
fine forms of Dendrobium nobile ; 1 has a peculiar
tint of colour, but not so conspicuous as last year.
Repeated 1, 2, and 3, varieties of Odonto-
glossum ■ Audersouianum. The Dendrobium
Wardianum is the best form; the Dendrobium
crassinode Barlieriauum, very fine ; the Odonto-
glossum triumphans, a very handsome flower.
When producing a many-fiowered iuflorescence it
may uot be so good. The little spray is Oelogyne
tlaccida. Please number all in future. — R. <?.(?.,
Plus Clough, Denbigh. The twig sent as that of
"a small evergreen hardy shrub" seems to be
very near a species of Mouardella, allied to M.
nana ; it is not known to have any economic
uses, medicinal or otherwise.
Slitting the Bark of Trees: W. B. If you
confine the operation to the outer bark, cutting
with a sharp knife or other suitable iustrumeut,
the pressure of the bark is reduced, and a strong
rlow of sap takes place towards the slits in order
to form a union of the parts. As a rule, a more
active growth becomes noticeable in the stem or
branches that are operated upon, and they increase
in diameter, which is particularly useful io trees
that are at a standstill, and as gardeners say,
" hidebound." This ofteu occurs in the first
year after planting, owing to lack of roots and
rootdisturbance. The operation is also useful when
there is a marked disproportion between the size
of the crown aud the stem in restoring the
proper balance. It may be carried out repeatedly
without any injury resulting.
Soil with Iron in it: S. S. To prevent the
hardening when dry, mix a good proportion of
leaf-mould, charcoal dust, and bone-meal with
it, aud use mulches over the potted plants in hot
weather. Do not make use of a pasture soil
that is not well furnished with the roots of
Grasses, Arc, and do not use any which has not
been in stack for t welve months.
Tnr. Post or Horticultural Lecturer : Energy.
A candidate would most surely have to satisfy
the sub-committee of a County Council having
the appointment to make that he was thoroughly
competent to impart instruction ; and iu order
to do this he would probably require to be pro-
vided with .suitable testimonials as to his ability
and qualifications.
Vines: J. (!. P. Probably a case of " Browning,"

often described iu these columns.
VIOLETS: G. Brown, Rants. We have never seen
liner. You should oblige our readers with a note'
describing your methods of culture, kiud of soil
used, &c.
Women Gardeners: W. B. There are a few
women employed in the glasshouses at Kew.
Swanley Horticultural School has a good many ;
but, in regard to the other statements made in
the cutting sent, we may say that they contain
much exaggeration. Men are not quite ousted
from the business, although women have been em-
ployed in market gardens for hundreds of years.

Count siCiTioNS Received.— E. P., Ghent.— A. C, Venders.
—A. H., Bermuda.— B. H. W.— D. R. \V. — F. A. w., Vei
inont. — K. is., Berlin.— H. E., Florence.— E. 1;., Ghent, -

Baron O., Antwerp.— V. L., Nancy.— L. C. — W. G. S., I Is

— H. E., Rome.— D. T. P.— J. M.-W. G.— K. M.- F. W. I!.
-F. W. M.-W. W. 11 M. II W.—C. W. D— W. C—
C. II -W. H.- II. F. c -G. M.— A. ]!. 8.— K. McD.—
.1. & Co.— A. H.— T. E. II.— A. L. V.-A. C. F.— R. L. II. —
F. Ii.-W. C— J. O.-J. OB.— F. W. B.— C. W. D.—
Observer.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks.—
R. L. H.— Hibemia.— E. W. 11. — V. Lemoine.— W. M. F.—
W. N.-F. w. m.

Important to Advertisers. — The Publisher tea

the satisfaction of announcing that the circulation of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
vrice of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers arc reminded that the " Chronicle" circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners*
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and that it Is
preserved fu reference in all tlir principal Libraries.

(For Markets and Weather, see ji.

xiv.

March 11, 1899.)

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

145

THE

jy0. 037.— SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 1899.

THE

EUCALYPTUS, THE SOIL,
AND THE GRAFT.

THE information which has been recently
published in these columns on the subject
of the Eucalyptus,. shows that the tree may be
cultivated in this country even as far north as
the county of Inverness. It is indisputable,
however, that the risk is always great, except
perhaps in certain favourable situations, not
only on account of the climate, but also for
other reasons, to which reference will presently
be made. The Eucalyptus at Meadfoot Rock,
Torquay, which is reported to be twenty years
old, must, for instance, be growing under
exceptionally favourable conditions, since it
resisted the winter of 1894-95, when the genus
was practically exterminated from the Island of
Jersey. Many of the trees, moreover, had
attained to a very largo size, and seemed to be
thoroughly acclimatised in the Island, where
the average temperature is considerably higher,
and the extremes of heat and cold considerably
less, than in England. The question of tem-
perature is, indeed, not the only one to be
considered in the successful cultivation of the
Eucalyptus, and it is probably on this account
that the limit of cold endurance of the tree is
found in Western Europe to vary within com-
paratively wide limits, as will be mentioned at
the end of this article.

Some species are undoubtedly better adapted
titan others to certain soils and situations, and
it should not be forgotten that in the Australian
continent, which is the home of the Eucalyptus,
different species thrive best under very different
conditions. For instance, the Spotted-gum of
New South Wales, E. maculata, is generally
found on stony ridges ; the. White-gum, E.
viniinalis, attains to a great size in rich soil in
mountain forests, but it thrives only moderately
in poor soil ; and the Bloodwood, E. corymbosa,
nourishes better in the mountains than on the
coast. Some varieties, again, are best adapted
tii the northern and warmer parts of Australia,
and whilst some prefer swampy ground, others
thrive best in sandy or calcareous soils.

So important, indeed, is the question of soil,
that in the commercial cultivation of the Euca-
lyptus it is well recognised, as Professor Warren
states in his work entitled Australian, Timbers,
that the strength and durability of the timber
depend to a great extent upon the locality in
which the trees are grown. Timber, for
example, of the same name, and presenting the
same general characteristics, differs widely in
quality when it is grown under different con-
ditions of temperature, geological formation of
soil, and amount and distribution of rainfall ;
or when it is grown on mountain ridges, or in
swampy, low-lying ground. The Blue-gum, for
instance, from a particular district of Victoria
(Corner Inlet), gives excellent results compared
with the timber of the same species grown in
other localities under less favourable con-
ditions. Again, the timber grown in swampy,
low-lying districts is found to possess less

tenacity of fibre than the product of the same
tree grown at higher elevations, and in more
favourable geological formations ; and the
granite soils of Australia, it may be added, do
not appear to produce any kind of good timber.
The Eucalyptus, moreover, is subject to a
defect called gum- vein, which is caused by the
extravasation of gum -resin in particular parts
among the woody tissue, and where an apparent
injury has been sustained ; or in the concentric
circles between successive layers of wood. If,
therefore, the Eucalyptus is so affected by
local conditions in its native habitat, how much
should they not be considered when the tree is
grown in regions where frost is an additional,
and its greatest, danger. It may be mentioned
in this connection, as Sefior Sempere has Btated
in his Monograph on the Eucalyptus, that the
cultivation of the tree has been very successful
in Spain, because it finds there three climatic
conditions which it requires, viz., "the proper
temperature, the necessary humidity, and the
suitable quality of the ami dent air."

The opinion of M. Felix Sahut is also of
great value in this connection, inasmuch as he
is one of the best authorities as regards the
acclimatisation of the tree in Europe. He
states that while the minimum winter tempe-
rature must first be considered, the relative
atmospheric humidity and other local circum-
stances must not be overlooked, as is indeed
proved by tin- following circumstance. Fifty-
three species of Eucalyptus were growing near
Montpellier in the winter of 1804, when the
temperature fell to 10'4° F., which completely
destroyed twenty-eight species, nine others
being more or less injured, whilst sixteen com-
pletely resisted the cold. Moreover, other
experiments, made under different local con-
ditions, showed that some of these species, in
certain cases, withstood lower temperatures,
while under other conditions they suffered more
when the cold was not so severe. It has also
been found that several of the species which
most successfully resist the winters in the
south of France are unable to exist in the soil
of Provence. M. Sahut gives a very remark-
able account of an Eucalyptus which, planted at
Lattes in 18(34, resisted 32° F. of frost during
the memorable winter of 1870-71, nor did the
tree suffer in any way, and even its leaves re-
mained intact. Ithad been raised fromaseedling
among seed of E. Eisdoni, and its identity was
never traced. It grew to a height of nearly
40 feet during its comparatively short life, for
at the age of twenty years it gradually began to
show signs of weakness and ultimately it died.
This tree which had been provisionally named
E. lattensis by M. Naudin, indicated a species
possessing cold-resisting qualities, but as it
never blossomed, M. Sahut's foresight led him
to graft it on an allied species with a view to
its cultivation as an ornamental tree in more
northern parts of France. Two methods were
employed : one, the cleft graft, with moderate
results only ; and the graft by approach, or in-
arching, with much greater success. The stock
being more susceptible to cold than the scion, the
operation was purposelyjmade as near as possible
to the root. The union of the plants was practi-
cally perfect, and five or six dozen plants
developed vigorously and with great promise.
Some of them grew to a height of 6 feet during
the first year, but during the next season they
all began to fail, and at the end of the third
year not one was alive.

The operation of budding was not tried by
M. Sahut in these experiments, because he did
not think it would succeed, and it is interesting

to note that this method has been adopted with
good results elsewhere. The Revue Horticole
published in L893 an account of work of this
character conducted in Palestine by M. Justin
Dugourd, who budded E. Globulus on E.
resiuifera. The former variety is one with
s] treading roots, and is a less resistant to the
influence of the wind, &c, than the latter,
which was used as the stock, because it grows
into a strong tree. It appears to be neces-
sary for the complete success of this operation
to support the scion in some suitable manner,
so that the sap may the more readily reach
it. As the stock increases in growth, it
is also desirable to remove any shoots which it
may produce, unless the operation is unsuc-
cessful, when the subject may then be allowed to
grow. It should be mentioned that M. Sahut
is of opinion that the E. resiuifera in question
is the popular but incorrect name given by many
French gardeners to a variety of E. rostrata,
which is very generally found in the south of
France, where it thrives best in the calcareous
soils, and is more resistant to drought than
many other kinds.

Considered in the light of past results in
connection with other plants, M. Sahut is of
opinion that the graft may be the means of
greatly extending the cultivation of the Euca-
lyptus in Europe. He himself has jjroved that
certain rare species of Pinus will not grow in a
particular limestone district, except when grafted
on P. halepensis, or P. nigra, or P. pinea. To
quote M. Sahut verbally from his paper on the
subject, in the Annates de ta Societd d'Sqrtiaid-
ture de VHerault, the problem is as follows :
"Given one or several species of Eucalyptus
which develop vigorously in a certain soil, it is
required to employ them as stocks whereon to
graft species which will not themselves thrive
therein." And he illustrates his proposition by
the following evidence : < >f the 130 species of
Eucalyptus experimentally grown at Lattes, the
larger proportion were kdled by the cold ; others
succumbed to the heat ; while yet others, after
languishing for several years, ultimately
perished, not on account of the cold, but
because the nature of the soil was unsuitable,
and different from the mountain regions of
Australia, whence the trees originally came.

As regards the limit of cold endurance of the
Eucalyptus, it may be added that, with a view
to the cultivation of the tree in America, the
United States Government made an inquiry on
the subject through its consular service in the
year 1894, and the reports received from various
parts of the world are of very great interest.
The officer at Marseilles reported that, generally
speaking, some species which have been
thoroughly acclimatised in southern Europe are
capable of resisting a temperature as low as
8 '6° F. ; but successful cultivation of desirable
sorts cannot be hoped for in localities where
the winter maximum of cold exceeds 21 '2° to
17-6° F.

The report from Rome stated that the Euca-
lyptus is killed by the cold in Italy when the
thermometer marks 12 : F. below freezing.
The consul at Madrid, writing in March, 1894,
stated that E. Globulus and other allied species
had resisted the climate of Barcelona and
Madrid, where the temperature is frequently
as low as 6° or 7° C. (20-7° F.), without any
diminution in vigour or vitality.

The consul at Zanzibar reported that an
attempt had been made to cultivate the tree in
his district, but without success, owing to want
of care or to the unsuitability of the soil.

Further evidence could be given to show that

146

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

the experimental cultivation of Gum-trees must
be regulated by a consideration of various
factors other than the temperature of the dis-
trict. It may be added, for instance, that in
the Punjab, planting in groves gives a better
chance of success than when the tree is planted
singly along the roadsides, and that its general
failure in that district is mainly attributable to
three causes, viz., failure of the rains ; injury
to the young stems by sunburn ; but principally
to the white ants, which destroy the roots.

It may be interesting in conclusion, to give the
following information from a comparatively re-
cent Spanish work on horticulture.* E. Globulus
is the favourite variety in Spain, where it thrives
in humid soil, but not in humid air ; E. resini-
fera is found to resist the wind remarkably
well, and to accommodate itself to every soil ;
E. urnigera is suited to the mountainous dis-
tricts and to low temperatures ; E. Gunni and
E. coriacea are indifferent to cold ; E. mar-
ginata is rather sensitive ; E. amygdalina grows
best in sandy soil, E. fissilis prospers in poor
soil, E. odorata thrives in dry soil.

In Bois' Dictionnuire d' Horticulture, the fol-
lowing species are mentioned as extensively
grown in Provence, and to be as rustic as E.
Globulus : — E. calophylla, E. cornuta, E. gom-
phocephala, E. robusta ; and E. Gunni, E.
polyanthema, and E. viminalis, which are also
specially named as among the most hardy of
the species.

A large number of species have been experi-
mentally planted in the Landes of the south-
west of France with unsuccessful results ; and
in the region of Paris the tree is taken to the
temperate-house as early as the month of
November. Hence, M. Bouquet de la Grye
defines the northern limit of the Eucalyptus in
Europe to be the same as that of the Orange — a
statement with which many growers do not
agree, and which is not unlikely to be dis-
proved by cultivation of the tree under the
selective conditions to which allusion has here
been made. Scion.

Orchjd Notes and Gleanings.

■
EPIDENDRUM UMBELLATUM.
M. Cogniaux sends us from Verviers the follow-
ing communication ou this subject : With respect
to the Epidendrum umbellatum mentioned in the
Gardeners' Chronicle of February IS, there are two
remarks I wish to make : first, by reason of
priority, E. umbellatum, Swartz (1788), should lie
named E. difforme, Jacq. (1760) ; second, the plant
figured iu the number of the Gardeners' Chronicle
mentioned above, p. 98, fig. 39, is not E. difforme,
Jacq. (E. umbellatum, Sw. ), but E. latilabre, Ldl.
Although these two species are very variable, it is
always easy to distinguish them : E. difforme has
usually oblong, sometimes nearly linear leaves ; many -
flowered umbels, the petals narrowly linear ( 1 to 2 mm.
wide) and not spatulate ; the lip nearly flat, half as
wide again as it is long. E. latilabre has leaves
often oblong-oval, the upper ones sometimes sub-
orbicular, umbels with two to four flowers, the petals
linear spatulate (2 to 4 mm. wide) ; the lip has
widely reflexed edges, and is sometimes four times
as wide as it is long. According to some hundred
of herbarium specimens which I have studied, these
are the maximum measures of the lip : in E.
difforme 1 to 2 cm. long and li to 3 cm. across ; in
E. latilabre, 1 to 2 cm. long, and 3J to 5 cm. across.

Dictions aire IcoxoGRArmQUE des Orchidees.
The last number of this useful little publication,
No. 22, dated October, 1898, contains the following
plates : —
An(.h.ecum superbum, Thouars.

* Wovisima Guiadel lI'rrld«n»,JardiucroyArbolista,

ClRRHOPETALUM GUTTULATUM, Hooker, f.

ClRRHOPETALUM ORNATISSIMUM, Rchb. f., in Gard. Chron.,
1S82, xviii, p. 424.

Ccelogyne speciosa, Blume, C. salmonicolor, Rchb. I, in
Gard. Chron., 18S3, xx, p. 328.

Cypripedium aureum x, a hybrid out of C. Spicerianum
by C. nitens.

Cypripedium Calypso x, out of 0. Spicerianum by
Boxalli.

[ Cyprifedum T. W. Bond, out of C. Swanianum x by C.
hirsutissimmn. C. Swanianum is itself a hybrid between
C. Dayanum and C. barbatum.

M vm.evalua Harkyana, Rchb. f., fig. in Gard, Chron. 1871,

p. 1421.

Odontoolossum Rolfe.e x, a hybrid raised by M.
Vuylsteke from Pescatorei by Hairyanu'm.

< iDONTOQLOSSUM SeBLIEPERIANUM VAR. XANTHINA.

Okoidicm Jonesianum, Rchb. f., in Gard. Chron., 1SS3, xx,
p. 781.
Sophronitis cernua, Lindley.
Stauropsis lissochiloides, Benthain.

"LlNDENlA."

A very remarkable series of fine varieties is
figured in the last number of this publication : —

Cattleya Mendeli var. Princess Clementine, t. 647.—
The flowers are white, with the exception of the lip, which
has a yellow blotch at the base, and a small crimson one on
the anterior lobe just before it divides into two lobes.

Cypripedium Wiertzianum X L. Lind, t. 644.— A hybrid
from C. Lawrenceanum, by C. Rothschildianum.

Dendrobiim nobile, Lindl., t. 645-646.— A double plate
devoted to the illustration of numerous forms of this variable
but ever-welcome species, viz., anomalum, lutetun, majus,
albo-lilteum, splendidum, excellens. Some thirty-two hybrids
from this species are also enumerated.

Habenaria Sisann.e, R. Br., t. 642.— A long-known and
widely-distributed Orchid, with large white flowers, 7 cent,
across ; the outer segments are ovate, the petals linear, the
lip three-lobed, with a long spur twice or thrice the length
of the flower ; the lateral lobes deeply laciniate, the inter-
mediate lobe linear.

L/ELIA PR.-E3TAN3 VAR. LUCIANI, t. 643.— A highly-Coloured

variety, the blotch on the front of the lip being especially
rich in colour.

Mn.TosiA vexii.i.aria, Beiith., var. Memoria Lindeni,
t. 648. — Remarkable for the intensity of its rosy-lilac colora-
tion ; the lip has at the base a yellow blotch, striped with
rosy-lilac.

Odontoolossum crispum var. La Merveille, t. 641.— A
splendid variety, introduced by M. Lucien Linden, having
broad, undulate acute white segments, marked by one or more
large purplish-brown blotches. The lip, which is narrow and
contracted, so as to separate the anterior lobe, is similarly
marked.

PINUS MONTEZUTvLE.

Our illustration (fig. 53), taken from speoimens
obligingly forwarded to us by J. Rashleigh, Esq.,
Menabilly, shows the foliage, the male and female
catkins, together with other details of Pinus Monte-
zuma?. This is one of the most variable of Mexican
Pines, but all the varieties are probably tender in this
country, unless in sheltered situations in the south
and west. The tree grown by Mr. Rashleigh is
now about 20 feet high, and as many feet in
diameter. It bore female cones for two years, and
last year it had five or six fine cones on it. Mr.
Rashleigh raised several seedlings, but all but one
damped off, the survivor now looks strong and
healthy.

" Very seldom in my experience," says Mr. Rash-
leigh, " are fertile seeds produced of these Mexicau
Pines. I have had a sackful of cones of P. patula,
but no perfect seed. I have about twenty trees of
Pinus Montezurme, each about 7 to 8 feet high,
from seed sent to me from Mexico by our consul
there, and besides these, I have given away as
many more. The two varieties of P. Montezuma?
which are growing here, are very distinct in the
colour and form of the foliage. The variety with
rigid, upright, glaucous foliage, has been called
P. Montezunue vera. The variety with drooping
foliage of a bright green colour, is perhaps the
variety Lindleyana.

"Both these varieties have, with me, borne cones,
which were similarly curved in shape, but different
in the colour and form of the scales. My two
original largest plants are about the same size and
dimensions. That which I had from Lawson under
the name P. oocarpa is P. Montezum<e Lindleyana,
and the living seedliug (home-grown) is from this
plant, as also are all those which I procured from
the consul at Mexico.

"I had several conversations with the late Dr.
Lindley about this variety, and I remember my
indignation at his refusal to believe that I had suc-
ceeded in rearing a cutting of P. Montezuma) into
a living plant. He said it was impossible. But I
did succeed in doing this, and I reared it from a
young growth which had sprung from a broken
branch, and by cutting off a small portion of the
old wood. It was plauted iu silver-sand with a
bell-glass over it, the soil being kept constantly
moist, so that the bell-glass was constantly rilled
with moist vapour, aud was never removed for
three or four months. "

We have on former occasions published illustra-
tions of the cones, March 3, 1894, p. 273, fig. 29 ;
see also October 2D, 1890, p. 466.

STAMPING OUT POTATO DISEASE.

The Potato crops of the last few years having
been so largely affected by the Potato disease, per-
haps a few facts as to experiments I have made,
and the success attending them, with regard to
raising Potatos free from this pest, may be accept-
able to your readers, and I would therefore ask
your indulgence iu granting me a little space to
set forth the same.

Having come to the conclusion that this evil
could be disposed of, if only sufficient patience and
perseverance were given to it, I determined to try,
and some seven years ago commenced experiments,
the result of which can be judged from the fact
that from a few seedlings I then raised I have now
a stock of over 300 distinct varieties. I do not
grow from seed Potatos, but from the seed found
in the Potato-apple, and my belief that by so doing
I could get bond fide disease-resisting Potatos has
been fully justified, for while other crops have
been largely affected by the disease during the past
season, my stock has been and now is entirely free
from it, and the Potatos are perfect in every shape
and form. My system, as can be seen at once,
entails a great a,mount of labour, and also expense,
but nevertheless I am quite satisfied with the
result, for not only have I a splendid stock of
si-idlings, but I have also increased my knowledge
and proved my belief to be correct, that this is a
sure way of eradicating this pest, and once more
giving a sure supply of this important edible.
About 100 varieties of my seedlings have been
named, and one, Dr. fCitehiu.hasbeentriedbyseveral
local gentlemen with every success, testimonials
of a very encouraging nature having been received
by me to this effect. Not only is this satisfactory,
but I have also received great encouragement by
having three certificates awarded to my seedling
Potatos, viz., two at the Winchester Gardeners'
Mutual Improvement Association Exhibition, held
in the College grounds, Winchester, and one at the
Winchester Chrysanthemum Society's Exhibition,
held in the Guildhall, while many gentlemen of
note have taken up the matter with much fervour,
and on several occasions favourable notices of my
efforts have been published in the local press.
Several influential members of the Winchester
Chrysanthemum Society named for me the follow-
ing varieties at their last show in November-
Lord Kitchener, Admiral Sampson, Alfred Bowker
(ex-mayor), Alice Bowker (ex-mayoress), and W. H.
Myers, M.P. These are splendid varieties, not to
lie found in cultivation. The Potato, Admiral Samp-
sou, professional gardeners acknowledge they have
never seen surpassed. The Alfred Bowkers are
perfect models. These facts need no further com-
ments from me, but I may point out I have for
cultivation this season ten tons of seedling Potatos.
I trust these facts will be acceptable, and that
I have said enough to show my endeavours are
meeting with success, aud that my experiments are
satisfactory. Francis Dibbens, 22, Jewry Street,
Winchester.

[Our correspondent has carried out in his own
way what Messrs. Fenn, A. and R. Dean, Findlay,
Messrs. Sutton, and many other raisers of new
Potatos have been trying to do for thirty years past,

March 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

147

Fig. 53.— pin us mostezumjj, showing male a>_d female flowers, pollen- grains, etc.

148

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1S99.

namely, to introduce seedling varieties endowed
with a constitution more or less proof against the
Potato murrain. If his success should prove
greater than theirs, a great stride will have been
made in the direction of preserving an important
article of daily consumption from loss. For good
or evil, the Potato has come to stay, for no other
equally valuable tuber, bulb, or root, suitable for
field or garden cultivation, is known to us ; and if
disease-resisting varieties can lie raised, we, in
these islands, with their restricted cultivable area,
ought certainly to possess them. Ed.]

NOTES FROM A SCOTTISH MANSE.

(I Continued from p. 100.)
When last I wrote to the Gardeners' Chronicle,
Nature was still eujoying her period of repose.
Nevertheless, even then, in what may be termed
the bulbous world, there was activity of a very
important character going on underground. The
process of root-formation, so essential for the
subsequent upward growth of the plant and the
development of the flowers, was silently being
transacted. And the result of this energy is already
sufficiently visible above the ever-gladdening surface
of the ground. Bright and radiant forms, which
the venerative nature cannot behold without
emotion, are springing into life. Nothing is more
touching to the lover of Nature than this annual
re-awakening from the grave of winter, of the new-
old flowers. They are those which charmed us
with their beauty in other years ; the same, yet
not the same. And thus, in the beautiful language
of Longfellow, "with childlike, credulous affec-
tion, we behold their tender buds expand." They
seem to speak to our hearts with au eloquence
peculiarly their own.

The earliest of all flowers, the graceful, drooping
Snowdrops, are perhaps of all the floral treasures
of the gardens and woodlands the dearest to our
thoughts, for they come to us with the impressive-
ness of a veritable revelation ; however, unobtru-
sive to our vision they may appear, they have
flowered from an art our utmost efforts fail to find.
We may comprehend the culture of nobler flowers ;
we may generate new and more elaborate forms,
by hybridisation ; but the secret of their origin,
of their primal creation, eludes our utmost intellec-
tual powers.

The Snowdrop is more beautiful than usual this
year. At present it is the greatest ornament of
the woodland enclosures which environ this manse,
while around Logan House the iields look as if they
were covered with a shower of snow. Here the
purity of this earliest aud best loved of all spring
flowers, is greatly intensified by the intermingling
golden hues of the earlier Crocuses, which, when
thus planted at intervals among Snowdrops, are
highly picturesque. In similar situations the deep
blue flowers of Scilla sibirica (which by reason of its
capability of producing rich contrasts should
be universally cultivated) are also finely artistic
in effect. Such pictures as these are not sufficiently
studied by amateur or even professional horticul-
turists, many of whom might learn from Nature
and especially from her arrangement of the wood-
land flowers, valuable lessons too frequently
ignored. Nature is profuse, and ofteu prodigal, in
her floral affluence ; yet we never find that of one
colour she gives us too much. She has always a
massive green environment for her myriads of
glowing flowers. We sometimes exhibit our fairest
blooms without foliage ; Nature rarely does this.
We did not learn from her majestic volume our
meretricious arts.

I sometimes think there is too much glare, not
ouly in our exhibitions, but in our modern gardens ;
too much of floral splendour, too little of soothing
and sheltering umbrageousness. I am sure that
the late Dr. Nathaniel Paterson, the eminent
author of The Manse Garden, the first book on
gardening I ever perused, would have agreed with
me in this. He had the great privilege of being
an intimate friend of Sir Walter Scott, of whom

he was a near neighbour, when he (Dr. Paterson)
was minister of Galashiels. The great novelist
often consulted the Rev. Dr. regarding the trees he
planted around Abbotsford, on the banks of the
silvery Tweed. A gifted daughter of Dr. Paterson,
wife of the Rev. James Cavau, resided for forty
years in this sequestered yet beautiful parish — in
Kirkmaideu Free Church Manse. She was a great
cultivator of climbing flowers, especially such forms
as Eccremocarpus scaber, Clematis flammula, and
C. montana, which I trust her successor may
cherish, with equally patient and loving care.
The climber last mentioned is well worth pre-
serving for its fragrance alone. I am much dis-
posed to sound the praises of a plant much less
obtrusive, of microscopic loveliness, which covers
in spring and early summer the walls of my garden
with its exquisite, miniature flowers ; which,
lilac and white in colour and profusely produced,
have throughout the entire loug season of blos-
soming, a most fascinating effect. At present it
is only beginning to grow, but ere this tribute to
its gentle beauty has been published, its tender
flowers will have appeared ; Linaria Cymballaria
is its classical name. When preparing to seed, it
grows, by some wise instinct, into the crevices of
the walls, where it meditates only rapid floral pro-
duction, it grows outwards to the light. Of late
it has acquired two interesting companions, whose
germinating seed has probably been blown by the
winds, or carried by the birds from the neighbour-
ing glen, viz., the pink-coloured Campion, and
Geranium Eobertianum. These climb gracefully
upwards till they reach the Linaria ; the Peri-
winkle, less ambitious, flowers at its feet. David
B. Williamson, Kirhmaiden Manse, Wigtonshire,
N.B.

SPONTANEOUS HYBRIDS OF
HARDY PLANTS.

(Continued from p. 182.)

The readiness of the members of the large genus
Verbascum to hybridise with one another is well
known. E. Boissier describes about 120 oriental
species in his Flora Oricntalis, of which 90 per
cent, are biennials (though he makes the mistake
of calling V. nigrum biennial, whilst it is really a
long-lived perennial). He warns us that he takes
no notice of the hybrids. 'In Godron's Flora of
France, only fourteen species are enumerated, and
if we join V. nigrum and V. Chaixiinto one species,
this is the only one perennial ; but eighteen wild
hybrids, all of them biennial, are also described.
Godron also states the fact, to which I have uever
been able to find an exception, that hybrids of
Verbascum are entirely sterile. As a rule, the
species produce seed in such abundance that while
its production proves a true species, its absence
affords a strong presumption of the plant being a
hybrid ; aud chiefly for this reason I have always
considered the tallest of perennial Mulleins, which
grows 6 or 7 feet high, and is named V. Wierzbickii,
syn. V. vernale, to be a hybrid.

About seveu species of Verbascum are grown in
Edge garden. I have had more, but not per-
manently established. Besides the tall, doubtful
kind mentioned above, only two species are pereu-
nial, V. nigrum, of which I have also the white
variety in plenty, and V. phceniceum, of every
shade between dark purple and white ; this comes
up abundantly all over the garden, including
gravel-walks. The biennial kinds are V. Lychuitis,
Blattaria, iucludiug the white form, phlomoides,
olympicum, aud I may add that Thapsus keeps
re -appearing, in spite of weeding out. All these
show hybrids with one another, so that I can count
more hybrid forms than species. From a gardener's
point of view, by far the best hybrids are those
between V. nigrum and V. phceniceum. I think the
former is generally the seed-parent, from the places
in which they appear. The commonest, but not the
best, colour is some shade of copper, such as one
would expect from a mixture of purple and yellow.
Others are pink, or pale purple, or nearly white,

They all throw up a succession of dense flower-
stalks, which it is better to cut down when they
begin to be shabby, to make room for more. They
are only perpetuated by root-cuttings. I have
had perennial hybrids evidently between V. ni-
grum and either V. olympicum or V. phlomoides,
showing that a hybrid of a biennial is sometimes
perennial. The presence of V. nigrum was obvious
in the purple wool of the stamens, whilst the size
of the flower and the texture of the leaves bespoke
the larger biennial. Sometimes a hybrid between
V. ptueniceum aud phlomoides has copper-coloured
flowers. Some of the prettiest, whilst they last,
are from Lychnitis, and I still have a perennial
which I believe to be between that species aud the
white form of V. nigrum. V. Blattaria ofteu takes
the colour of V. phcenieeuin, differing little in
other respects from its own type ; but I have never
known one of these to prove perennial.

Of seven or eight species of herbaceous hardy
Spirrea grown at Edge, hardly one ever shows a
spontaneous seedling except S. Aruncus, from which
abundance of them come ; but nearly all prove to
be green-flowered, owing, I believe, to the damp
soil. Oue other, S. camtschatica (so spelt in Index
Kewensis), is peculiar. Every year since it has
been in my garden two or three seedlings have
appeared near it : not one of these has proved
true to type : they are little more than half the
height — 1 feet instead of 8, and the flowers are
pale pink instead of dull white ; the panicle is
looser, and longer. They are hybrids either of S.
palmata or S. venusta, both of which grow near,
or of a plant itself said to be a hybrid between S.
palmata and S. Ulmaria, and called S. palmata var.
elegans, which grows nearer still. I have distri-
buted these seedlings, which were certainly less
cumbrous than their gigantic parent, to several
gardens. This is the only instance I have seen in
which the seedlings produced from a typical species
are all hybrids. C. Wottey Dod, Edye Hall, Malpas.
(To be continued.)

FEEN HYBRIDS.

The presumed cross betweeu our native Polypody
(P. v. graudiceps) and the exotic P. nigrescens
(figured in the issue of November 19, pp. 862
and 3(33), though not presenting such absolutely
conclusive evidence of the cross as Mr. Schueider's
previous success in P. Schneideri (P. v. elegan-
tissima x P. glaucum), certainly arose from a pro-
thallus which had intentionally been grown in
juxtaposition with the other crested variety of a
species with the intent that they should cross, aud
equally certainly the immense bunchy crests deve-
loped from the normally piuuate P. nigrescens is
precisely wdiat we might expect from the cross.
The writer is, therefore, strongly iucliued to impute
the sport to a cross, and not to regard it as a purely
independent variation. Mere cristation, however,
has arisen spontaneously in so mauy species, that a
simple cross of this cristate character is always
open to doubt, and to establish the fact of a cross,
other characteristics must be plainly transmitted,
in which event the evidence becomes enormously
strengthened. In P. Schneideri we have a model
example of this elass, the P. vulgare parent beiug
not only divided in a peculiarly abnormal fashion
for the species, but it is also erratically iucoustant ;
since not only do fronds of three types appear,
viz., normal, bipinnate, aud some of very fine
cutting, but all these three characters may appear
in one frond, some divisions being plain, and others
redivided in two fashions. This variety, too, has
ouly been found once, and no parallel to it
is known to exist in any other species of
Polypodium. Hence, when the spores of this
are sown, or its prothalli mixed with those
of a plain bipinnate form, like P. glaucum,
which differs also from the other extremely in size,
and we obtain a huge Fern fully the size of P.
glaucum, but with fronds varied precisely like
those of the abnormal P. vulgare, inconstancy and
all, we cannot doubt that the characteristics

March 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

149

of both parents have been intermingled, an inde-
pendent sport being out of the question. Iu
order, therefore, to eliminate doubt in cases of this
kind, it is highly desirable, assuming the cross
intended to be between a variety of one species
and the normal form of another, that the varietal
parent should have some special peculiarity beyond
that greater or less ramification of the rachis const i
luting cresting, and which, as we know, is liable
to originate, pi ;■ si , in auy species.

The greater liability of our native species to
sport as compared with exotic species, as illus-
trated by the greater number of wild fronds,
coupled with the demonstrated possibility of cross-
ing with by no means closely-allied species of the
same genera, opens up a wide field of operations,

Nature has a knack of harmonising her combina-
tions ; and we venture to assert that, if some for-
tunate hybridiser succeeded in crossing A. n. avis
with one of our finest fertile forms of S. crispum, and
got a thoroughbred, deeply frilled A. nidus avis as
tho result, there would be no lack of appreciation of
his prize ; neither would there be of a finely-crested
form, or a fimbriated one, or indeed of a score of
others of the right sort. "The right sort." "Aye!
indeed, there's the rub ! " There is no profit in
crossing for crossing's sake, and filling the world
with mongrels. Now that we have such a coterie
of high-class symmetrical varieties, we can afford
to ignore the imperfect ones. Recurring to the
Polypodium genus, the name of the exotics is
legion, many of which could doubtless be in-

afford to, contribute their boldness of pinna to some
of our tasselled forms of that ilk, or vice versd:
The exotic Osmundas might be crossed with 0. r.
cristata; and last, but not least, Polystiehuni
setosum would be none the worse for a dash of not
one but many of our lovely P. angulares. This is a
field in itself, to say nothing of other exotic Poly-
stichums, each species of which might afford
charming combinations under the influence of our
native varieties.

Finally, a word as to sowing: Mr. Schneider, we
understand, sows the species apart, and subse-
quently pricks out small patches of prothalli of the
same stage of development, and inserts these side
by side prior to the period of fertilisation. This
is done because exotic spores requiring warmth,
develop iuto prothalli much more rapidly than do
our native spores under cooler treatment, hence a
simultaneous sowing of both together would result
in self-fertilisation of the exotic batch before the
others were mature. As, however, our native
species do not object to some warmth in their pro-
thallic state, it might be equally or more efficacious
to sow our native spores first and not too thickly;
let them grow on to a certain extent, and then sow
the exotics broadcast among them, giving just suffi-
eient warmth to start them, and bring them on both
together to the crossing stage. Arrived at this we
would immerse the pan in warm water until the water
just Hooded the prothalli, letting them stand thus
for au hour or so, to permit of a general diffusion
of the escaping antherozoids. Given then any
affinity at all, it is clear the chances of cross-fertili-
sation will be enormously multiplied as compared
with that of simply juxtaposed patches of prothalli,
only the outermost of which are in contact with
t heir possible mates. D.

LiELIO-CATTLEYA x ERNESTI,
"PRINCESS OLGA."

One illustration (fig. 54) represents one of the
prettiest of garden hybrid Orchids. It was pro-
duced by M. ( has. Maron, of Brunoy, Seine-et-Oise,
France, and shown for the first time at the Royal
Horticultural Society, Feb. 28 last, when a First-
class Certificate was unanimously awarded by the
Orchid Committee. The plant is all the more
interesting as the seed-bearer was the somewhat
despised' Cattleya Percivaliana, crossed with the
clear yellow-coloured Ladia fiava, whose colour
wholly supplants the flowers of the rose-coloured
female parent, hi a similar manner that yellow has
been known to do in hybridising other plants.
The habit of L.-C. X Frnesti is like that of Ladia
flava in a great measure. The flowers bright
chrome-yellow, with an orange base to the lip,
and red-brown. The plant, which bore two spikes
of three flowers each, passed into the collection of
Norman C. Cooksou, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam.

Fig. 54. — l-klki-cattleya x ernesti, "princess olga :" colour
of the flowers, rich yellow.

American Notes.

the first fruits of which we see amply illustrated
in P. Schueideri, and fairly iu P. uigresceus var.
grandiceps. Iu view of Mr, E. J. Lowe's uudoubted
hybrid between Ceterach otticinarum (Asp. Ceterach)
and Scolopendrium vulgare, a cross evidenced by
scaleless Ceterach fronds becoming confluent at
their tips and bearing the dual fructification of
Scolopendrium, we have before us the possibility of
introducing variety into the peculiarly constant
family of the Asplenia. Iu Asplenium nidus avis
we have the relationship accentuated by simi-
larity of form, aud recently by an imported
fiud of a form which is broadly pinnatifid, with
crested tips to the side divisions, very much
on the lines of S. v. laceratum. Asplenium
nidus avis is such a grand Fern, that, in the
opinion of many, any varietal introduction would
spoil it ; but we beg to differ from this view,

duced to follow the example of P. glaucum, aud
mate to mutual advantage, not ouly with P. v.
elegantissimuui cristatum and grandiceps, but also
with the finely-cut form of P. v. ptdcherrimum,
and the long, slender type of P. v. bifido-cristatum.
Unfortunately, in this species the true plume-
sums, P. v. cambricum, P. v. plumosum Haduni,
P. v. Prestoni, aud the like, are absolutely barren,
aud hence precluded from union ; the aforesaid P. v.
pulcherrimum, however, is a fertile form on similar
lines to them, and P. v. semilacerum and omni-
lacerum are varieties which need precisely a robust-
growing mate to bring out their too often latent
excellence to perfection. Our little Asplenium
Trichomanes, in its crested form, could, doubtless,
despite its comparative smallness, affect beneficially
some of its large exotic relatives. TheC'yrtomiums
are near relatives of our Lastreas, and could well

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE IN THE
UNITED STATES, AMERICA.
This winter-flowering Begonia, to which frequent
reference has been made in your columns, is, you
may be interested,to know, having a great "boom"
at present in America. Although the plant has
been in the hands of a few growers for the past two
or three years, it was comparatively unknown until
last fall. One or two wide-awake persons, notably
R. & J. Furgutad & Co., and Mr. William Edgar,
of Boston, knowing the value of it commercially,
made considerable importations of it from England,
and worked up a large stock of it. Mr. Edgar
staged a fine table of it at the Chrysanthemum
exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society iu Boston last November, when it was the
centre of attraction for all visitors. Since that
time there has been a great call for it, both from
the trade and from private growers; and few

150

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

persons over here owning a greenhouse are now
without it. The florist stores in Boston sold large
quantities of plants during Christmas week at from
5 to 15 dollars each ; in fact, it was more in
demand than any other flowering plant. Ihe
plant is figured and extensively advertised in the
many leading seed catalogues now being sent out
and before the end of the present year it will
probably be in the hands of nearly all flower-lovers.
We find that Gloire de Lorraine, while more difficult
of propagation than most of the other Begonias,
roots quite freely from soft-wood cuttings or from
leaf-sections. It seems to succeed well in an inter-
mediate-house temperature, and stands a tan-
amount of sunshine; while a rich compost of hal
loam and well-rotted manure, with a good dash of
sand aud plenty of liquid-manure when the flowers
show give the best results. Of course this, like all
other soft-wooded plants, succeeds in stronger
compost, and stands more generous feeding than in
Englaud, owing to our more exhausting climate. J
English Tomatos in America.
Some of the leading English Tomatos are at last
being recoguised as standard varieties for forcing
purposes in the States. For years growers have
been relying more or less on such American varieties
as Stone, Perfection, Lorillard, May's Favourite,
&c, which, while admirable as outdoor kinds, are
very unsatisfactory setters under glass. We have
always found English kinds far more trustworthy
for forcing, and it is pleasant to note that at last the
merits of the varieties used by our transcontinental
cousins are getting proper recognition. The best
varieties here are Sutton's Best-of-All, Frogmore
Prolific, and Eclipse. On plants of Best-of-All and
Eclipse, grown to three stems in 10 and 12-inoh
pots, we had last winter from sixty to eighty -five
fruits each. Quite a number of seed-growers are this
year offering English Tomato-seed, and they will
speedily usurp the places of the American varieties
in indoor cultivation. A local market-grower
marketed last season 2| tons of Frogmore and Best-
of-All from a house 100 feet by 15 feet, planted in
January. The present wholesale price of Tomatos
here is from 30 to 45 cents per pound ; whereas,
six or eight years ago as much as 1 1 to 2 dollars
per pound was frequently asked and obtained. The
Tomato called Best-of-All succeeds very well out-
of-doors with us, but all other imported varieties
have turned out failures, the fruit coming soft, and
cracking badly. W. N. Craig, Taunton, Mas*.,
U.S.A. ^— ———===.

Plant Notes.

— ■ • ' —
[ APHELANDRA AURANTIACA ROEZLI.

This charming stove plant is now seldom seen in
our plant-houses, and many of the younger members
of the craft do not know it. It is quite a miniature
plant, seldom growing more than 6 to 9 inches
in height, the bright orange-scarlet spikes and grey
foliage making it conspicuous among other stove-
plants. The species grows best from seed, which is
rather difficult to procure, except through the best
houses in London. The seeds should be sown in
strong heat, and the plants grown on in peat, leaf-
mould, and sand, with asprinkliugof broken crock,
the plants being kept in brisk heat, and well
syringed daily. A flower-pot 4 to 6 in. wide is the
largest required, and a plant will flower two and
three times in a season. As a "dot plant" on a
dinner-table, among suitable cut flowers, this plant
has a very pretty effect. A.J. L. [It was described
by us in Gardeners: Chronicle, 1867, p. 1214. Ed.]

Plumbago Larpent.e,
Owing to its distinct characteristics, deserves a
place in all herbaceous borders, or such as are
devoted to mixed hardy plants, if for no other
reason than that it is so very distinct from other
hardy subjects. Its specific name was given in
honour of Lady Larpent, the fact may be re-
corded, as Sir William Hooker says it ought to be
known as Valoradia plumbaginoides, which, I

assume, was the name given it by Boissier. Con-
sidering Bunge (Botanical Magazine, 4487) named
it Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, it would seem well
to rely on Lindley's classification as above. Though
the form of its flowers, and their intense blue
colour, may not much resemble the ordinary Lead-
worts, that the leaves resemble the latter none can
gainsay. Of Chinese origin, it may be said to have
a distinctly tropical appearance. The young
shoots, somewhat attenuated, rarely grow more
than 18 or 20 inches in height, the blooms being
thinly scattered amongst their apices. It requires
a sunny situation, and is usually propagated by
division, though it can be increased by cuttings
dibbled out under handlights.

Mertensias.
As herbaceous, or rockery plants, the several
species of Mertensia are pretty, not to say showy,
grown and flowered, as they deserve to be, in
prominent positions. Mertensia virginica, the Vir-
ginian Cowslip, has blue flowers, resembling in tint
that of the Gentians. It blooms early in the spring
when the peculiar drooping, or more properly
speaking, arching cymes of flowers always attract
attention. Its suitability for rock-work shows
itself from the fact that it succeeds best partly
shaded by a boulder from the full sunshine, hence
it will thrive upon somewhat westerly aspects, and
it may be added that it has a preference for a peaty
soil. Mertensia sibirica atro-co?rulea, probably the
most robust-growing species, or sub-species, makes
a good companion to the above ; whilst M. sibirica
has tubular, lighter blue flowers, of which a white-
flowered form has lately been introduced. William
Earley.

The Week's Work.

• - - ■

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. YotTNn, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

General Bemarks on Shading.— That it is expe-
dient to have ready for use all the necessary
appliances, whether for affording heat or shade, was
strikingly illustrated by the days of February 23
and 27 last. The former was a warm and cloudless
day, with a temperature that reached 63s, whereas
on the latter day the atmosphere was fog-laden,
and the temperature several degress below the
freezing-point during the whole time. To be pre-
pared for sunny days, the roller-blinds and other
means of shading should be ready for use.
Lath-roller blinds are rightly preferred by most
growers for shading the Cattleya, Mexican, aud
Dendrobium-houses. They are suitable also for
Odontoglossums, if a little extra shading be pro-
vided with garden mats on particularly bright
days in summer. But for Cypripediums, Phala?-
nopsis, Mas.Uvallias, and numerous other species
that have no pseudo-bulbs, some shadiug material
is required that will break the sun's rays up a
little more than do the lath blinds. The situation
and aspect of the house should determine to some
extent whether the shading material need be
closely woven or not. Whatever material is used,
it should always be raised 6 or 8 inches above the
glass. Permanent shading of any description
should be avoided as much as possible. For sides
and ends of the houses, the canvas may be stretched
on frames, which may be suspended on hooks, and
thus be convenient of removal when necessary.
Such questions as : When is shade required ? How
dense should it be ? cau only be answered in general
terms, for certain species appreciate a fair amount
of direct sunlight— such are Cattleyas, Laslias,
Catasetums, Cycnoches, Dendrobiums, &c, and it
is only necessary to shade them when the leaves
feel warm to the touch. Vandas or allied genera
must be shaded before strong sunlight reaches
them, so also must most of the Cypripediums and
Odoutoglossums, Oucidiums, Maxillanas, Mil-
tonias, &c. Masdovallias, Phaius tuberculosa, the
warm-growiug Zygopetalums, Amtctochilus, and
Phahenopsis must be shaded, even when there is no
absolute sunshine, if the light be of a glaring
nature. There may be only a day or two during
the present month when blinds need be used, but
the variability of our climate is such that they
should be fixed without delay.

Cycnoches chlorochilum, popularly known as the
"Swan Orchid," is now making new roots, and
tmay be repotted. The old roots die with the
decay of the leaves, and they should be cut off to
within 2 inches of the base of the pseudo-bulb, the
length of dead roots left being useful to assist in
firmly fixing the bulb in the new soil. The latter
may consist of one part each cf fibry loam, Orchid-
peat, and sphagnum-moss. The plants do capitally
in 4-inch, perforated pans, which should be sus-
pended in the sunniest position in the East Indian-
house. Very little water will be necessary until
the weather is much warmer. Sometimes young
growths appear some distance from the base of the
bulb, and when these have thrown out roots, the
bulb may be cut through about an inch below, and
the separated piece potted, as advised above.

Catasetums should be repotted immediately signs
of new roots appear, using pans which are just
large enough to contain the plant conveniently.
The compost recommended for Cycnoches may be
used, with an addition of some small crocks. Cata-
setums are very susceptible to injury if water
lodges in the growths, and the plants are safer
suspended in the warm-house, where water from
the syringe or other sources will not reach them.
For a long time after they have been repotted,
it is dangerous to apply any water, but the pan
may be dipped occasionally about half its depth iu
warm rain water.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to .1. B. Fortescoe, Esq., Dropmore
Maidenhead.

Miscellaneous Operations. — As the buds of the
fruit-trees are fast sw-elling, all arrears of pruniug,
nailing, and training should be pushed on with
speed." The lower temperature experienced during
the past week or two has been beneficial in checking
the opening of the flower-buds, especially those of
some varieties of Pears, and the blooming period
will be deferred to probably milder weather. The
planting of trees and bushes should be finished
forthwith, the sun haviug considerable power, and
the prevailing east wind being very drying, and
consequently trying to such as are newly planted.
Let all primings be collected and burnt when the
work is finished. The nails which may have
dropped in manipulating the trees should be col-
lected, and after burning them in a shovel and
oiling them, they may be used again. After the
nailing and tying of wall-trees is completed, the
fruit-tree alleys should be cleaned with a rake, and
the surface hoed, or be very thinly pricked oyer,
just simply breaking up the surface. A light
mulch of half-rotten stable-dung may afterwards be
applied, which will be clean to walk upon .in
attending to the trees, and running together, it
will not exclude sun-heat. With milder weather
the borders near the wall should be examined, and
if found to be dry, a good quantity of water should
be applied. The beds of Gooseberry and Currant
cuttings should have an examination, and where
lifted by frost, the soil should be made firm about
them. Now that the fruit and wood-buds are
prominent, sparrows aud bullfinches will be getting
troublesome, and a sharp look-out must be kept, or
the Gooseberry-bushes and Plum-trees will quickly
be stripped of buds. While the weather continues
dry, a thick coating of lime-wash is fairly effective
as a deterrent, but it must be repeated after every
shower.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Eight Hon. W. H. Lono,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Musas (Bananas). —Where these plants are
grown in tubs or large pots, it is necessary to
detach the suckers before they are far advauced,
or their removal will result iu injury, both alike to
parent plant and sucker. Where they cannot be
planted in a natural manuer in a border, pits formed
with walls are the best, as such give facilities
for affording fresh soil to the mass as the roots
extend, loose brick walls being quickly taken
down and rebuilt, so as to include an increased
area. By this method of treatment, the same site
can be permanently devoted to the plants, as the
mother plant, after the fruit-cluster is cut, may be
readily removed, and the sucker at its base allowed
to remain. The exhausted soil iu which the plant
grew should be replaced by new, and the work is

Mahch 11 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

151

not nearly so laborious as that attending tub or
pot-culture. Stove temperature and a rather lofty
house are necessary for success in Musa cultivation.
The moist air of an ordinary plant-stove suffices,
together with the usual syringmgs. In regard to
plants freshly potted or planted-out, water should
be carefully given at the first, but as the plants
get established they will take it in abundance
during the summer. The planting or potting
must be firmly done, and the soil and manure
should be used in a lumpy, rough state, whicli
renders this the more necessary. When in full
growth licjuid-manure may be freely employed.
Soot sprinkled on the surface aud stirred in, or in
the form of clear soot-water, is excellent for
imparting depth of colour to the leaves.

The Cucumber-house. — If the plants are in good
health, growth will now be more vigorous thau
hitherto, and a frequent stopping of the shoots will
be called for, as well as the removal of the weaker
shoots and old leaves that have fulfilled their
functions, and are now almost useless. Let all
shoots left for fruiting or extension be tied to the
trellis at short intervals of time. As fast as tho
roots appear at the surface of the beds or hillocks,
apply a top-dressing of rich pasture loam and rotten
stable-manure, omitting the latter, however, if the
plants possess desirable vigour. Water,should bo
afforded at the root in accordance with the state of
the soil, the weather, aud the method of affording
heat, beds situated directly over hot-water pipes
needing it more frequently than those made up on
beds of fermenting stable-litter and tree-leaves. Tho
cultivator should endeavour to maintaiu the beds
in an uniformly moist state. Let the foliage be
syringed morniug and afternoon, and be sure to
damp the floor, walls, &c, often. The variable
weather at this season renders the giving of air
a rather tiresome matter, as while bright sunshine
prevails there is usually a piercing wind from east
or north, which, if admitted untempered, work ill on
the plants. The ventilators should be covered with
pieces of Nottingham hexagon netting, in order the
better to distribute the air ; and they should, if
possible, only be opened on the side from which
the wind does not blow.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Propagating Plants. — Most species of stove and
greenhouse plants may be progagated during the
present month ; and as a rule, those cuttings strike
tlie most readily which are taken from plants
starting into growth after a period of rest ; and
therefore plants from which it is intended to pro-
pagate, should now bo encouraged to make a strong
short-jointed growth. This maybe accomplished by
introducing them to a house where a higher tem-
perature and a moister atmosphere is maintained
than in that they have hitherto occupied. The
cuttings should be taken off as soon as they have
attained a sufficient length, which varies with
different plants, but the shoots are generally long
enough when they have made from three to five
joints. Many soft-wooded plants emitroots readily
from any part of the young shoots, but as a general
rule, it is best to make a clean cut immediately
below a joint. Cuttings of Panicum and Trades-
cantia for furnishing the edges of stages and for
decorative purposes, should be inserted in such
quantities as may be required. Likewise Clero-
dendron fallax [Fine also from seed. Ed.], Jus-
ticias, Libonias, Gardeuias, Begonia Gloire de
Lorraine, and other Begonias, both species and
crosses ; Ixoras, Fraucisceas, Coleus, Abutilons,
Fuchsias, Heliotropes, &c, all of which strike
readily in the propagatiug-frame, or in an ordinary
hotbed-frame. Plants |of Isolepis and Eulalia gra-
cillima variegata may be divided and potted in
small pots.

Hippeastrums [Amaryllis). — The latest batch of
bulbs should now be re-potted. After shaking
the soil from the roots, preserving all of the latter
which are in a sound condition, place the bulbs
in 6-inch or 7-inch pots, according to size, affording
a porous compost, consisting of two parts good
loam and one part flaking leaf-soil, with plenty of
sand. When the potting of a bulb is finished, half
of its height should be above the soil. Plants
required to bloom late may be allowed to start into
growth in a temperature of 50°, but those that are
to flower quickly should be placed in a moist heat
of from 55° to 00°. Bulbs which have started into

growth should not have the soil shaken from the
roots, but the drainage should be examined and
made good if defective, and the surface-soil
removed to the depth of 1 or 2 inches, and replaced
with fresh soil, to which maybe added a sprinkling
of bone-meal.

Seeds.— Many of the tender and half-hardy
annuals are extremely useful for the furnishing of
the greenhouse and conservatory. Among these
may be mentioned Celosias, Cockscombs, Sehizan-
thus, China Asters, Balsams, Globe Amaranth,
Nicotiana affinis, Petunias, Ipomceas, Exacum
affine, Mauraudyas, Lophospermums, Rhodauthe,
Torenia, &c. The following, although perennials,
are best treated as annuals. C'elsia arcturus,
Hibiscus Manihot, and Traehelium cceruleum.
Seeds of the above may be sown in pots aud placed
in an intermediate-house or pit on a cinder-bed, or
plunged in a mild hot-bed not far from the glass,
and carefully shaded. When the seedlings have
made a " rough " leaf , they should be pricked off
into pans or boxes, and returned to the same house
or frame for a few days, after which they may be
removed to a cooler pit or frame. When large
enough, the seedlings should be pricked off into
other pots, and subsequently potted. They will
require one or two shifts before the final one, which
may lie into 48's or :!2's. Exacum affine and
Ipomceas succeed best in a warmer temperature
until the beginning of June, when they may be
transferred to the greenhouse or conservatory.

Carnations. — The remainder of the autumn-
struck tree Carnations should now be placed in
the pots in which they are to flower. If the plants
have been wintered in 60's, they may be shifted
into (i-ineh pots ; but if they are strong plants in
48's, a 7 or 8-iuch pot will not be too large. Keep
the Souvenir de la Malmaison varieties in a pit, or
near to the glass in the greenhouse ; but the
summer -flowering show varieties of Carnations
may be stood out-of-doors at the end of the month
or early in April, thereby affording house-room for
more tender subjects.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Herbaceous Phloxes. — In order to obtain fine
trusses of bloom, these old stools should be taken
up, and from the circumference of the chimps
pieces with half-a-dozen strong shoots should be
selected for replanting. The new stations or beds
should be deeply dug after being manured, some
good loam beiug also used. Phloxes delight in
abundance of water in the hot weather, and to have
plenty of subdued light, and no exposure to full
sunshine. For the purposes of exhibition, the
plants should be grown from cuttings taken in the
early autumn and struck iu a cold frame, or from
young shoots taken at this season from potted roots
brought on in gentle warmth. These cuttings
should bo struck in pots rilled with sandy soil and
plunged in a mild heat. The shoots should be
reduced to three or four, and no others allowed to
grow. The varieties of P. suffruticosa flower
early in the summer, aud those of P. decussata in
the autumn months. There are splendid varieties
of both of these, but the self-colours and those with
a symmetrical eye of bright colour are the more
effective.

Gladiolus. — Any corms starting into growth may
be planted in borders of other plants or in beds by
themselves, or amongst small dwarf shrubs. The
soil should first be well dressed with rich loam,
stable-dung, or crushed bones, and be trenched or
deeply dug. When the ground has settled, let the
corms be planted 6 inches deep, and before cover-
ing them with the soil, sprinkle them with soot.
When the plant is grown iu beds for cutting pur-
poses, it suffices to draw deep drills 9 inches apart in
prepared land, and plant the corms at 6 inches
apart. Any which have not started may be planted
in about a fortnight ; they will form a succession.
M. Lemoine's hardy hybrids are dwarf, and beau-
tiful early-flowering varieties. G. Childsii has
flowers of great size and substance ; G. Brenchley-
ensis, one of the hardiest, and therefore the best for
planting [in shrubberies, is of a dazzling scarlet
colour ; and generally G. gandavensis varieties,
with regard to brilliancy and variety of colour, are
unequalled.

Begonias. — If the seed sown as was advised by
me in the month of February has germinated, the

plantlets, when strong enough, may be pricked out
iu pans, prepared as for sowing, at 1 inch apart,
and large enough to take the roots without cramp-
ing them. Lift each little plant with a flat stick
notched at the bottom, and let the roots fall into
the holes ; press the soil gently over them, taking
care not to bruise the young leaves ; sprinkle the
soil lightly with a fine-rose pot, and cover each pan
with a sheet of glass for a few days. Avoid damp,
and watch that insects do not harm them.

Sweet Peas.— These flowers are beautiful when
cut for house decoration, aud effective in the
garden, and by sowing at about this date, and suc-
cessively to the middle of the month of June, a
lengthy supply of them may be obtained. Many
gardeners fail in growing the plants to perfection by
having a soil that is too rich in nitrogen, and putting
in the seed thickly. Let the seeds be placed 2 inches
apart, not nearer, in drills 3 inches deep. The ground
should be deeply trenched, but not recently
manured, and the position should be cool, and not
fully exposed to the sun. Where the plants show
blossom, liquid manure is beneficial.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markuam, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Barnet.

Sea Kale.— The plants reserved for the latest
supply should now be covered up, and the crowns
kept in darkness. The forcing pots and heating
material must be removed from the beds where the
crop has been gathered, a slight covering only being
left to protect the crowns. About the end of the
mouth the crowns may be cut over 2 inches beneath
the soil, this applying also to crowns which have
not been forced. This will have the effect of pre-
venting flowering, which is always injurious. New
plantations may now be made, using straight pieces
(i iuches in length and of uniform thickness, leaving
the smaller sizes for planting on one side of the beds,
so that when the roots are lifted, the best may be
taken up in rotation. The sets may be planted with
the tops 2 inches below the surface, and the holes filled
to the surface with fine soil, or a little sifted coal-
ashes. Any good crowns kept for a very late supply,
may be kept in bundles and well covered under a
north wall till growth commences, when they may
be removed to the Mushroom-house to be blanched.

Globe Artichokes. — If more plants are wanted,
suckers or side-shoots should be taken up, potted,
and stood in frames till established, and then be
planted on well-prepared land, or at a later date in
the warmer parts of the country. The suckers may
be dug up and planted straight away in groups of
three at 12 inches apart, and 4 feet between the
groups. Seeds of Globe Artichokes may be sown
in pots and pans, and the seedlings forwarded under
glass. These with care will yield a moderate supply
of heads towards the end of the summer. Some
growers sow one seed in a 60-sized pot, or three
seeds in a 48.

Tomatos. — A sowing of seeds of the Old Red or
other free fruiting variety in the open air, should be
made, if the situation be very favourable for ripen-
ing the fruit of the Tomato out-of-doors. Ham
Green Favourite, Chemin Rouge, and Sutton's Per-
fection, are also suitable, andgreat crops are harvested
in ordinary seasons. The plants should be kept
steadily growing the whole time. The plants,
especially in the colder parts of the country, should
be fully 2 feet high or more at planting-time, and the
stems kept clear of side-shoots. The first week in
June is early enough to plant them out-of-doors.

Capsicums ami Chilies. — A sowing may be mado
iu heat at this date, and the seedlings grown on in
the intermediate-house. In very warm parts, the
plants may be planted in June at the foot of a
south-wall, aud they will fruit well, but ordinarily
the plants should be kept under glass the entire
season.

Chives, &c. — The old clumps should be divided and
replanted on fresh heavily. manured land at a dis-
tance of 1 foot apart. Fresh beds of Camomile
may be formed by planting shoots with roots
attached at 1 foot apart. Seeds of this plant may
also be sown. The situation of the bed should be
warm and dry.

Pennyroyal may now be planted, also any other
herbs that will grow from divisions of the roots.
A timely attention paid to the herbborder will always
result in plenty of herbs for kitchen and still-room
use, whereas neglect of this necessary part of the
garden usually brings never-ending complaining.

152

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Local News. — Gorrespondents will greatly oblige bit sending
to the Editor early intelligence of loeal events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is '
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, Mar. 11— Royal Botanic Society, Meetii

MONDAY,

Mar

f Annual Meeting of the United Hor-
13-j tieultmnl Benefit and Provident

TUESDAY,

Mar

JN

Society.

Royal Horticultural Society Gomrn.,
Meeting.

National Rose Society, Committee
Meeting.

Royal Horticultural Society of Ire-
land, Meeting.

THURSDAY, Mar. 16— Liunean Society, Meeting.

SALES.

fRoses, Gloxinias, Spirteas, Hardy
MONDAY, Mar. 13-J Perennials, &c, at Protheroe &

I Morris' Rooms.

( Lilies, Carnations, Hardy Border
Mar. 14 1 Plants, &c, at Protheroe &
\ Morris' Rooms.

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, Mar.

/ Japanese Lilies, Continental Plants,
15? Palm Seeds, Roses, &r., at Pro-

theroe & Morris' Rooms.

(Imported and Established Orchids,
at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.
Pa*onies, Spirseas, English- grown
Lilies, Dahlias, &c, at Protheroe
& Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period February 26 to March 4, 1899. Height above
sea-level 24 feet.

1899.

§

O

B

o

O

w
a

S

Temperature of

THE AlR.

<

Tempera-
ture OF THE
Soil at 9 a.m.

o
a

<

* <0

At 9 a.m.

>
<

a

o

•a
o

■a

3

•a

3

o

deep

Tempe
Gras

< £ s
2 H «

•2

3

M

V

n
a
Si

to

w

CO
CD

O

H
en

w

%

O

►J

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

ins.

deg.

deg.

deg. deg.

Sun. 26

N.E.

30-0

30' 0

43-1

26-2

...

37-2

41-G

45-1 15-5

Mon. 27

N.B.

24-8

24-829-5

23-3

36-3

41-0

44-9

16- 5

Tdes. 28

W.S.W.

24-8 24-S 47-9

20-5

35 -5

40-5

44-8

13-5

Wed. 1

w.s.w.

:sT-s:::s-o:i4-k

24-6

35-5

39-9

44-5

15-3

Tiiu. 2

W.S.W.

36'5

33-348-9

26-5

35-5

39-7

44-2

ie-5

Fri. 3

N.W.

35-1

34-850-0

2S-0

35- 6

39-5

43-9

21-5

Sat. 4

W.S.W.

35-3

34-848-1

30-2

0*02

6 9 9-

48-6

MS

22-0

Means...

39-9

32-4|39-7

25-3

Tot.
0-02

36-3

40-5

17-7

fiemarfts.— Every morning has been more or less foggy,
followed later by bright sun. The temperature has been lower
than in any previous week during the winter. On Saturday,
March 4, there was a slight hailstorm.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick. — 42 4\

Actual Temperatures: —

London. —Mureh 8 (12 p.m.): Max. 523 ; Min, 32°.
Provinces.— March s (G p.m.) : Max. 4ua, Southern Coun-
ties ; Miu. 89°, X. W- Ireland.

It is high time that intending
Farion90atiOn exhibitors in the horticultural

department should notify their
intentions to the Secretary of the Horticultural
Department, Paris Exhibition, St. Stephen's
House, Victoria Embankment, Westminster.
The full details are not as yet to hand, but the
apace allotted will be seen marked "Grande
Bretagne " on the ground-plan shown in our
Supplement. The situation is an admirable one,
and it is to be hoped that British exhibitors will

avail themselves to the full of the opportunity
offered them. It is suggested that in due sea-
son exhibitions of British-grown fruit should be
made.

A committee has been appointed to look after
British interests in the matter. This com-
mittee is presided over by Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart., the President of the Royal
Horticultural Society, and contains among its
members Sir W. T. Thiselton Dyer, Mr.
Harry Veitch, Dr. Schlich, Dr. Masters,
and others.

The plans show the general nature of the
building, with ground plan, section of one of
the domes, iyc. We may mention, that in some
other departments of the agricultural section,
the applications for space are already very
numerous, and for the credit of British horti-
culture, and the interests of the exhibitors them-
selves, it is very important that those intending
to take part in the exhibition should notify their
intentions to the secretary of the committee,
whose address is above given.

The Gardeners' Wb m0st willingly Sive a Place
Royal Benevo. to the following letter from Mr.
lent institu- Owen Thomas, of tho Royal
Gardens, Frogmore, and we cor-
dially endorse his statements : —

"As a member of the committee of the above
Institution, I hope I may be excused for approach-
ing my fellow gardeners for the purpose of endea-
vouring to influence them to give a more general
and generous support of its funds. I am not asking
others to do what I have not attempted to do
myself, as I have striven to do my best for the
Institution. It is difficult to understand why all
gardeners do not rally round this splendid property
of £30,000, especially when it is said that every
shilling of it is their own. One would think that
even from motives of selfishness, if from no higher
motive, every gardener would strive to do all in his
power to promote its usefulness and prosperity.
There cannot be fewer than 30,00(1 gardeners, nursery-
men, growers, and others engaged in horticultural
pursuits who are, or ought to be, interested in its
welfare, and if as many of these as can afford it
subscribed their guinea a year, and if the remainder
who are unable to do this were to collect small sums
annually for the benefit of its funds, the question
of old age pensions, so far as it relates to gardeners,
would be solved.

"Objections have been advanced by many persons
against the Institution because it is not founded on
the lines and principles of a benefit society, where
a member can claim help at any time in case of
need. On the surface this may appear to be a
reasonable objection, and, I am afraid, it has been the
cause of many not subscribing to its funds ; but on
a little consideration, this objection may be proved
to be an erroneous one, and especially so in the case
of gardeners whose wages are scarcely ever stopped
in time of sickness, and who, therefore, do not feel
the pinch of poverty at this time as mechanics and
others who are paid by the hour, and whose pay is
stopped when work ceases. As bearing on this
point, I may say I have been a member of a benefit
society for upwards of twenty years, paying about
22«. a year, and if I am to remain a benefit member
I shall have to go on paying that sum as long as I
live, and in case of sickness and permanent dis-
ability from work, I am entitled to 10«. a week for
the first year, about Is. the second year, and after
that I believe the pay is reduced to 3s. per week
for life. Let me ask my fellow-gardeners wdio are
still sceptical on this point, to compare this with
the advantages offered by the Gardeners' Royal
Benevolent Institution, even from a benefit point of
view, where, after subscribing a guinea for fifteen
years, or £10 10s. down, a member or his widow is
almost certain to be placed on the pension list if
the ease is deserving and the caudidate is incapa-

citated from work and in need, receiving without
any further cost or trouble £20 or £16 a year for
life.

"Another objection has occasionally been levelled
at the institution, viz., that some gardeners who had
subscribed but little, and others who had not sub-
scribed at all, are occasionally elected pensioners.
On this point I may say that, we must not lose sight
of the fact that by far the largest proportion of the
funds of the institution has been, and is, subscribed
by people indirectly connected with gardening out
of pure benevolence for the relief of aged and
distressed gardeners. I, for my part, should be
very sorry to see this principle of benevolence
infringed upon or curtailed in any way. I hope
and believe it will not be allowed to impose a
barrier to prevent subscriptions flowing in. The
committee have introduced a clause into their rules
giving almost absolute certainty of election to those
candidates for assistance who may have subscribed
for fifteen years, and the new rule passed at the
special general meeting (December, 1892) will give
subscribers substantial advantages over non-sub-
scribers, inasmuch as a subscriber for four years will
have fifty votes credited to him, and fifty more
added for every year subscribed afterwards up to
fourteen years, and thus the gardener with few
influential frieuds is placed more on au equality with
those who have that advantage.

" In addition to the above advantages, giving
benefits only to those who have subscribed, and
who may unfortunately some day become candi-
dates for the help of the charity for themselves or
their widows — we none of us know, the wheel of
fortune is always turning round, picking some
up, and casting others down daily.

"In 1S97 (the Diamond Jubilee year), at the
instigation of Mr. Harry J. Veitch (one of the
best frieuds the Institution has ever had), the
Victorian Era Fund was established, and although
this Fund is not yet two years old, so great has
been the success atteuding its formation that
the sum of £5000 has been subscribed, which
sum is invested in Great Western Railway Stock,
bringing in an annual income to the charity
of £130. This Fund was conceived and estab-
lished entirely iu the interest and on behalf of those
gardeners who had befriended the Institution by
subscribing to its funds, and no non-subscriber
will ever receive a penny benefit from it. The
money is expended in the form of gratuities
to unsuccessful candidates at each election.
Each one who may read these lines, and has a touch
of kindness iu his heart, can depict to himself much
bettor than I can describe the comfort this gratuity
affords. The gratuities range from £10 to £1,
according to the number of years the candidate
may have subscribed. I have mentioned this fund
in order to show my fellow gardeners that the
Committee are not unmindful of the prior claims of
those who have helped the Charity in their days of
health and strength, and also in the hope that this
action of the Committee will favourably commend
itself to gardeners generally, and as a result help
to bring in -a large accession of gardeners' annual
subscriptions and donations.

" May I point out a way that has been opened
out within recent years which makes it practical
and easy for gardeners to help the unfortunate
members of the Craft in their own district or
county, as well as the general interests of the
Charity. I allude to the Auxiliary Committees
which have been established at a few ceutres
iu county districts, notably those of Worcester,
Bristol, Wolverhampton, and Exeter. Each of
these centres has established strong local effort,
and is doing most useful work. Worcester especi-
ally, in consequence of the energetic and stroug lead
of Mr. White and Mr. Crump, have done yeoman
service for the Institution ; so also have Mr. J. H.
Vallance, the admirable Bristol secretary, Mr.
R. B. Lowe of Wolverhampton and his colleagues,
and Mr. W. Mackay of Exeter, as well as friends
in Birmingham. This opens out a way for any
district or county to place their own local candidates

March 11, 1899.]

THE GA B DENEB S' CUB ONI GL E.

153

on the funds with their own votes (all they have to
do is to secure plenty of local subscribers) as the
auxiliaries I have mentioned are now able to do,
and if they are fortunate enough not to have a local
candidate, theu they still have their votes to give
to whom they please.

"Let me appeal to the gardeners in every county
to appoint a local committee in every centre of
importance in order to band themselves together to
do some little in any way which may suggest itself to
them to help forward the good work of this splendid
charity. It only wants a few kind hearts and
willi Dg spirits to take the lead, and hundreds, nay,
I hope thousands, will follow.

"The executive committee in London give ebeei
fully and freely their time and their thought at
considerable cost to many of them living at a dis-
tance, without hope or wish for reward further
than the pleasure always derived from association
with the work of benevolence and charity. But
the responsibility is great. The institution has
174 p2nsioners on its hands, at an annual cost of
£3,lti4. My friends, this is no light matter. Is it,
therefore, too much to ask and to hope that our
gardening friends in the country will imitate and
emulate the successful examples I have quoted, and
come more to our help.

" Our excellent and indefatigable secretary, Mr.
Ingram, 17.~>, Victoria Street, Westminster, S.W.,
will be delighted to help in any way possible to
bring about this desirable result. Owen Thomas,
Royal (Hardens, Frogmore, March 2, 1899."

Royal Horticultural Society.— A meet-
ing of the committees of this Society will be held
on Tuesday next, March 14, in the Drill Hall,
Westminster, when a lecture on "The Duke of
Bedford's Experiments at Woburn : their Objeoi
and Method," will be given by Mr. Si'ENCEii
Pickekinc, at 3 o'clock, p.m.

LlNNEAN SOCIETY. — The next meeting will be
held on Thursday, March l(i, at S o'clock, P.M.,
when the following papers will be read: Mr. 1'.
Chalmers Mitchell, M.A., F.L.S., "On so-called
Quintoculiitalism in the Wing of Birds;" Mr. YV.
P. PrcEAFT, M.A., A.L.S., "Some Facts Con-
cerning the So-called Aquintocubitalism of the
Bird's Wing;" Messrs. W. West, F.L.S., and
G. S. West, A.R.C.S., "A Further Contribution
to the Freshwater Alga? of the West Indies."

The St. Petersburg Exhibition.— Through
the intervention of the Royal Gardens, Eew, we

have received a document from the Russian Govern-
ment stating the conditions under which plants
will be received at the forthcoming show in May
next. 1. The transport of plants and other objects
from the frontier to St. Petersburg will be made
without any reduction in the tariff, but these goods
will be exempt from customs duties, provided they
are despatched from Russia through the same
station as that by which they entered. 2. The
transport of these goods from St. Petersburg to
the frontier station through which they entered
will be effected gratuitously. 3. To avoid all mis-
understanding at the frontier, all goods intended
for exhibition should be marked " Transit — Expo-
sition," and bear a label, which will lie furnished
by the Imperial Horticultural Society to every
exhibitor on application, one label for each package.
4. The customs examination will take place in the
exhibition buildings. 5. All plants should be pro-
vided with a " Phylloxera Certificate." The Rus-
sian railway authorities undertake to provide
several waggons adapted specially for the transport
of plants, and provided with water for purposes of
watering, and of heating. In the interests of the
exhibition it is desirable that persons taking part
in the exhibition should avail themselves of a
reduction in the cost of the railway tickets, Signed
"Staal."

Horticultural Club.— The usual mouthly
dinner ami conversazione will take place on Tuesday,
March 14, at 6 p.m, The subject for discussion

will be, " The Planting and Pruning of Single
Roses," to be introduced by Mr. George Paul,
V.M.H.

Railway Rates. —We extract the following
from the DaUy Mail, and trust, that a subject of
such vital importance to cultivators who supply
our markets will be vigorously taken up by those
concerned : —

Tin' preference rat the fi ' East

Chatham railways to foreign fa ers are to be fought strei
ously. Messrs. \v. Wood & x , a v-igoroua

attack.

"Thehouria nowripe For prompl .■mil concerted act! "

write Messrs, « « fcSos, Ltd., horticultural sundries.

l.i.-ii . off i in oi n i'. i "lis between

rates For fori

districts which ii" I- be servi . by the South Eastern ami
Chatham railways should have the effect of rousing those
t,i whom this is a matter of a si i uggle foi existence, to take
seiia' steps i" upset tliis monstrous anomaly."

Messrs w \ Bos proposi to call a public meeting at a

convenient City centre. This meeting should beattendtd bj
every Englishman who desires i" see, at the very least, the
same treatmeni accorded I ill producer as '-a, corded

i,, the foreigner by tin- Soutl I i id Chatham By.

i i mipanies.

Messrs. W v Bo» address Is Wood-Green, London,N.;

theirtelephoneis"10 Tottenhai ' Jisl in

every way to fight this battle oi borne against foreigner, and
Hi,, will l,i' glad to Ii" ir n "in .'in "in' an. 1 every, me w ilium I..
join with 1 hem.

Tasmanian Fruit.— Messrs. Anm.kson. An-
derson' & Co., of the Orient Steamship Co., inform
us that they have received a telegram to the effect
that the quantity of Apples shipped in the C
is 11,000 cases, and in the Britannia 10,000 cases.
This quantity includes Apples from Australian
ports as well as from Hobart. Vendors here will
appreciate the value of this communication. The
Cuzco is due to arrive on April 1.

Adiantum X Farleyense var. alcicorne.
— Apropos of the illustration in last week's issue of
this journal, Richard Smith iY Co., Worcester,
write : — "We are pleased with the capital illustra-
tions you give in to-day's Gardeners' Chronicle of
Adiantum x Farleyense var. alcicorne, and with
your remarks thereon, which we would supplement
by saying that it originated here as a 'spoil
nearly twenty years ago, and that it was very largely
distributed by us at the tune."

ANTON BARTIK, formerly head gardener to the
Royal and Imperial Horticultural Society of
Vienna, died, after a short illness, on January 8,
in the sixty-second year of his age.

•The Agricultural Gazette."— Our old
ally, so long edited by the late John CHALMERS
Morton, affords pleasing evidence of vitality.
Not long since, it added a special department
devoted to the interests of market gardening ; and
now its price is to be reduced to one penny. It is
so ably conducted that we cannot doubt that the
large measure of success which it deserves will be
attained.

United Horticultural Benefit and Pro-
vident SOCIETY. — The annual general meeting
of this Society will take place on Monday, March 13,
at 8 P.M., at the Caledoniau Hotel, Adelphi Terrace,
Strand. Mr. John Fraser, of the Gardening
World, will preside on this occasion.

Welwitscws Plants. — The third part of the
catalogue of the African plants collected by Dr.
Friedp.hh Welwitsch, prepared by Mr. Hierx,
has lately been issued. It extends from the Dip-
sacese to the Scrophulariaceaj. Dr. Welwitsch s
notes are of great interest, aud Mr. Hiern's known
accuracy aud thoroughness give ample guarantee
that his share in the work is well done. We notice
that the spelling, Willugbaeya, is adopted in place
of Willoughbya, aud Elicbrysum instead of Heli-
chrysum. Composites and Asclepiadacere are largely
represented, but Ericacea' and some other orders
very scantily.

Forthcoming Horticultural Exhibitions

IN BELGIUM. — We have before us the schedule of
the Exposition Internationale d'Horticulture, or

ganised by the Sooiete Royale d'Horticulture et
d'Agriculture of Autwerp, to be held from April 9
to 13. Also the programme de la Grande Exposi-
tion Internationale d'Horticulture, to be held at
Mont St. Amand, Ghent, from April 30 to May 9.
Both these exhibitions are likely to be on a large
scale, judging from the number of sections included
in the programmes and the awards offered. It is
fortunate for intending exhibitors ami visitors that
the two shows are not to be held concurrently.

The Cold in America. — The Florists'
ExcJiange records that in Chicago there was only
one day in which the thermometer was above
/in from January \1~ to February 13 ; aud for ten
days the thermometer ranged from 10 to "21 below
zero ! At Cincinnati, during the same period, 8
to 30 below zero were chronicled ; at Grand Rapids,
Michigan, 10° below zero " seems to be the rule ; "
at St. Louis, the temperature on three occasions
•was 20° below zero ; at Kalamazoo, the extreme
temperature was 34° below zero.

" Orchard Management."— On the occasion
of a meetiug of the Bedfordshire Chamber of Agri-
cult un: on Saturday, February 23 last, at the
Bedford Corn Exchange, a practical and interesting
address by Mr. It. L. Castle, manager of the
Duke of Bedford's Fruit Farm, at Ridgemont,
was read in his absence byH. T. Eve, Esq., the Hon.
See. A lively discussion followed the reading of
the paper, and a hearty vote of thanks was
accorded Mr. Castle.

The Roman Flora.— Mr. Dwight Benton is
contributing to the Roman World a series of
articles on the flora of Rome and its environs. The
Campagna is not the desolate malaria-haunted
region it is generally supposed to be. Its scanty
population is the result of the system of hiring-
out to the shepherd, aud the tender of cattle, the
privilege of wandering in freedom with their
charges. Under a proper system of cultivation,
half the grain required by Italy could be produced,
whilst abundant water-power is at hand "to grind
never a greater harvest.'' The first plants to make
their appearance are the species of Romulea.

Mr. BARR. — American and Canadian papers
aro much interested iu the wanderings of Mr. Bare.
Here is what a Canadian paper (London, Ontario)
says: — "Mr. Peter Bark, a Victorian medallist
iu horticulture, of London, England, has been on a
visit to the city during the past two days. Mr.
Bajcr is making a tour of the world iu search of
knowledge aud pleasure, and expects to return to
England i;i 1902. He left Liverpool on April 5
last, and since that time he has been iu the most
important cities of the United States, from the
Atlantic as far west as the Yellowstone Park. From
Londou (Ont. ) he goes to Arizona aud California, and
after spending a considerable time iu each place, he
will sail for Hawaii, Japan, Chiua, Australia, New
Zealand, and the Cape of Good Hope. 'And if Mr.
Rhohes has that railroad from the Cape to Cairo
built by the time I reach the former,' said Mr.
Barr, ' I will iu all probability go that way home.
If not, I will take the Nile trip at another time.'"

The Guernsey Growers1 Gazette, of
which the first number is before us, is established
to promote the interests of the Guernsey cultivators
and to secure cooperation for the common benefit.
The present number consists of trade advertise-
ments ouly, but it is hoped shortly to introduce
articles of general interest. From the energy aud
enterprise manifested in the island, we cannot
doubt the success of this new venture ; and if good
wishes could ensure it, there would be no doubt as
to the result.

"The Botanical Gazette."— The February

number of this publication, issued by the University
of Chicago, contains a paper on some new or little
kuown N. American trees, by Prof. C. S. Sargent,
including Thrinax iloridaua, n. sp., T. Keyensis,
n. sp., and T. microcarpa. Coccothrinax is a
new genus split off from Thrinax, and including

154

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

T.argentea, T. radiata(T. gracilis, elegansandaurita
of gardens). C. jucunda is the Thriuax parsiflora
of Sargent Tenth Census Report, not of Swarz.
C Garberi replaces Thrinax Garberi. Serenoa
arborescens, sp. n. These are all Florida Palms.

" Transactions of the English Arbori-

CULTURAL SOCIETY." — The last part contains the
report of the animal meeting held at Penrith on
August 17, together with an illustrated account of
the excursion, in the course of which Messrs. Herds'
nurseries were visited. On the second day, visits
were paid to Eden Hall, the seat of Sir R. S.
Musorave, and Patterdale Hall, Hallstead. On
the following day, Castle Eigg Manor, Armathwaite
Hall, Mire House, at all of which places the planta-
tions were inspected. Notes are also given of an
excursion to Blagdon, the residence of the Right
Hon. Sir M. W. Ridley, the Home Secretary.
Practical papers include, "Remarks on the Measure-
ment of Timber," "The Management of Planta-
tions," " The Preparation of Bark," and " The
Re-Afforesting of Palestine. "

National Auricula and Primula Society.
— The twenty -second annual report of the Southern
Section of this Society lies before us. The exhibi-
tion held in the Drill Hall, James Street, West-
minster, on Tuesday, April 26 last year, was, it
is stated, considered 'a late one, and owing to the
backward season, growers in the midland northern
counties were unable to exhibit, and the exhibits
of the Rev. F. D. Horner, Mr. P. J. Worsley,
Mr. Simonite, Mr. Meaking, and others, were
greatly missed. The show, however, was a success,
exhibits being fairly numerous, and of good quality.
A few new varieties were shown, and alpine Auri-
culas made, as usual, a brilliant display. The
premier show Auricula, a fine example of Abbe
Lizst, was shown by Mr. J. Sargent, and the pre-
mier alpine, Mrs. Martin R. Smith, having a gold-
coloured eye, was shown by Mr. C. Phillips. The
committee, with a view to encourage the cultiva-
tion of gold-laced Polyanthus, have added two
classes to the schedule for these pretty flowers —
one for three dissimilar varieties, and one for ono
variety. The committee draw attention to the
desirability of an increase of membership, and
tender their thauks to the members of the Horti-
cultural Club, for the use of the club-room during
the season. The twenty-third annual exhibition is
to take place in the Drill Hall as heretofore, on
Tuesday, April 18.

Cactace/e.— Dr. Schumann, of the Royal
Botanic Museum of Berlin, has published a mono-
graph of the Cactaceaa under the title of Gesamt-
beschreibung der Kacteen (Neudamm : J. Neumann ;
Williams & Norgate). It consists of a full descrip-
tion ot the Natural Order, with illustrations of its
chief peculiarities. The several genera are treated
in the same mauner, together with artificial keys.
All this is in German ; but in the case of the species,
a short Latin diagnosis is given, for which non-
Germans will be specially grateful. It is singular
to see how in half-a-dozen lines of Latin information
may be given that which would necessitate double
the number of German words for its exposition. The
relative disuse of Latin by German naturalists is a
real misfortune to botanists. One hundred and
four species of Cereus are described, thirty-two of
Pilocereus, fifteen of Phylocactus, one only of Epi-
phyllum, eighteen of Echinopsis. Of Ecliiuocereus,
thirty-nine species are recorded. One hundred
and thirty-eight species of Echinocactus are
enumerated, and reference is made to their litera-
ture aud iconography. It is a pity that no reference
is made to the excellent illustrations which ap-
peared in these columns of species of this genus.
Of Melocactus, fourteen species are enumerated,
but only one of Leuchtenbergia ; ninety - nine
species of Mamillaria are described, and forty-
seven of Rhipsales. No fewer than one hundred
and thirty-one species of Opuntia are monographed.
The remaining genera consist of but few species.

Mr. Hirscht contributes a chapter on the culti-
vation aud propagation of these plants, together
with an account of the insects which attack them,
and the means of dealing with them. A good
index concludes the work, which no lover of
Cactaccai who can read German can afford to do
without.

Stock-Taking : February. — The terrible

weather during the whole of the past mouth has
doubtless had much to do with the falling-off in
the imports, as recorded in the Board of Trade
Returns for February. Seldom has there been
such a record of wrecks, with loss of life ; and as
we are the largest carriers upon the sea, so are we
the principal losers. The returns of imports show
a deficit of £184,180. The figures are £35,586,694
for last month, against £35,770,S74 in February of
last year. The decrease in dutiable provisions is
£137,997; articles of food and drink, duty free,
show an increase of £299,924 — this, in face of the
fact that the price of Wheat is down 10*. 2d. per
quarter; Barley, Is. 5d. ; and Oats, 11(Z. Our
usual summary extract is as follows :—

Imports.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

£

£

£

Total value

35,770,874

35,586,094

— 184.1S0

(A.) Articles of food
and drink — duty
free

11,615,507

11,915,431

4299,924

(IS.) Articles of fo>l
& drink — dutiable

1,9511,202

1,821,205

—137,997

Raw materials for
textile manufac-
tures

7,228,664

6,276,019

—947,645

Raw materials for
sundry industries
and manufactures

2,680,854

2,926,154

+ 245,800

(A.) Miscellaneous
articles

1,226,896

1,312,992

+86,196

(B.) Parcel Post ...

189,180

95,027

—44,153

We may note an increase in the value of sugar
imports of over a quarter of a million sterling, as
compared with February, 1898. The two months'
imports show an advance of £1,103,135, as against
the same period last year. We come now to —

Fruit and Vegetables,
our comparative figures being as follows : —

The plus figures are well worth study. Notable,
also, is the quick reply of the market to what has
been placed upon it. We fancy that our friends
at the Antipodes are this season " selecting " their
export fruits with caro. Growers probably found
this the most profitable course to follow ; certainly
the average quality has been improving of late
years. Coming now to—

Extorts,
we note with pleasure that they have increased, as
against February in last year, by £1,740,557, the
figures being, last month, £19,382,406 ; February,
1898, £17,641,149. The increase is led off by
£553,533 in raw materials ; £361, S25 in machinery
and mill-work— still making up for losses in the
great strike. Metals, and articles manufactured
therefrom (excepting ships and machinery), have
gone up by £221,614 ; yarns, &c, increased by
£105,605 ; and the section, " all other articles,

either manufactured or partly manufactured,"
shows an increase of £"188,270; chemicals, &c.,
increased by £53,138; apparel, &c, £48,911; and
parcel-post, £30,291. Taken altogether, these
returns may be cousidered to be satisfactory and
promising. The value of the exports for the two
mouths is £39,729,640, against £36,873,253 in
February, 1898— a gain of £2,856,387.

Artificial "Natural" Flowers. —Some

Londoners are encouraging the lavish use of^flowers
for funerals, that we have, until lately, been more
accustomed to associate rather with foreign or
American capitals than with our own. The idea just
now, judging by a stroll past the priucipal florists of
the West End, seems to be to employ for such a pur-
pose as many flowers as can possibly be crammed
together, to the destruction of the individual beauty
of them all, and the artistic effect of the whole.
Artificial blossoms, indeed, would be quite as success-
ful in appearance. To so great an extent is this fad
carried, that one kind of flower is not infrequently
flatteued out, and a second pinned down in the
middle of it. For example, every violet that was
used in a certain "set piece "of this kind, lately,
had a single Lily of the Valley thus added ! The
background of the crosses, harps, and books that
aire so modelled, as it were, in flowers, often con-
sists of white stocks, deprived of their stems, and
so closely packed together that r.o foundation is
visible between them. On the page of one open
book was displayed a text carried out with single
pips of scarlet Pelargoniums. Not satisfied with
this, the florist had arranged across it a book-
marker of broad heliotrope ribbon, veiled with
sprays of Asparagus, and what was apparently
white heather. After the sight of so much arti-
ficiality and bad taste, it was a relief to turn to
another shop window, in which were placed boxes
full of beautiful crimson Roses, uuwired and untor-
tured in any way, and lookiug as fresh as if they
had only that moment left the tree. They had
been provided with no foliage except their own,
and called forth the undisguised admiration of
every passer-by.

" Advertising." — This is the name of a
monthly publication, issued by Smith's Advertising
Agency, 132, Fleet Street, as a guide to those
business men who are desirous of advertising suc-
cessfully and effectively. In the February number
an attempt is made to suppress fraudulent dealings
by giving a list of "genuine advertising media,"
which has been compiled with the assistance of the
proprietors of the principal journals and magazines.
Additions to this list will be made in subsequent
issues.

An Exhibition of Drawings for Fountains
and Vases. — A small exhibition is now open at
the Dutch Gallery, 14, Brook Street, Hanover
Square, of drawings of fountains, figures, vases,
aud balustrades, suitable for the decoratiou of
gardens. Many of these are the production of
M. Alphonse Legros, and are carried out in silver
point, crayon, sepia, and water colours. Although
the drawings themselves are very skilfully executed,
there is nothing strikingly original in the many
groups of children, masks, and dolphins, that are
specially intended for fountains. Two studies of
horses, probably iuspired by some classic frieze, are
full of life and euergy, and are to be carried out in
relief. The Countess Feodora Gleichen gives
several proofs that she is at least as skilful in this
branch of art, as in others, with her work in which
we are more familiar. She contributes some
charming designs for fountains, among them being
one representing a graceful female figure coming
down some steps, over which water is flowing, and
bearing a pitcher ou her shoulder. At the base are
groups of children toying with dolphins. Another
drawing by the same artist shows a garden terrace,
with a short flight of low steps, widening out at the
bottom. These are finished with balustrades in a
pleasing classical design of rams' heads, and floral
swags disposed alternately. Sculpture is not fully

March 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

155

represented, but one of the most striking examples,
by M. Legros, is a mask forming a portion of the
base of a fountain, destined for the gardens of
Welbeok Abbey. It is scarcely fair to judge such
drawings as those in this exhibition, for the result
would be so very different when they are repro-
duced in the stone or plaster for which they are
intended. The apparently coarse physiognomy of
some of the children, in particular, would then be
softened, and the rounded surface would contribute
grace to the design.

The Nursery and Seed Trade Associa-
tion, LIMITED. — The objects of this Society are to
protect aud promote the trade and business of
nurserymen, florists, aud seedsmen, in the United
Kingdom and abroad ; to collect and disseminate
information calculated to protect the members of
the Association (as nurserymen, florists, aud seeds-
men, and others interested in horticulture) from
fraud ; to arrange for the speedy and economical
collection of debts due to members, The establish-

chasers, and the extent of credit which may be safely
given to old or intendiug customers. If information
cannot be obtained from the recordsof the Association
or its members, special inquiries are made in the
districts where the customers reside ; 1813 special
inquiries were made during the last three years at the
expense of the Association. Advice and assistance
is given to members, through the solicitor, in
reference to disputes and liabilities which arise out
of the sale of seeds aud plants, rating of nurseries,
punishment of persous adulterating seeds and
fraudulently obtaining goods, and questions affect-
ing landlords and tenants and the trades generally.
The subscription for members resident in the
United Kingdom is CI Is per annum. For mem-
bers abroad C2 2s. per annum ; commencing on
January 1 or July 1. Mr. J. P. Worrell, 30, Wood
Street, Cheapside, London, is the Secretary.

Publications Received.— The English Mux-
trated Magazine, March. — Bulletin of the Botanical

Department, Jamaica, December, 1898. Contents

I ■ I : I i 1_

FlG. 55. — 0D0NTOGI.CJSSUM X COOKEANUM.

0D0NT0GL0SSUM x C00KEANUM.

Though not one of the showiest of Odontoglos-
sums, the blossoms of this natural hybrid are
attractive, aud the plant is floriferous. It is,
moreover, a rarity, and but few have yet appeared
out of the importations of Odontoglossum trinmphans
which, with Odontoglossum gloriosum, are the
species whose natural intercrossing when growing
together has resulted in this hybrid. An excellent
example, from which our illustration was taken
(fig. 55), was shown by Baron Sir H. Schroder,
The Dell, Staines (gr., Mr. H. Ballantine), at the
Royal Horticultural Society, on February 28, an
Award of Merit being secured for it. The flowers
are yellow, blotched with reddish-brown, the blade
of the lip being creamy- white.

ment of unity amongst those interested in the
welfare of the nursery and seed trades is aimed
at. The interchange of opinions on questions of
importance relating to such trades is also promoted.
The doing of all such things as may be incidental
or conducive to the attainment of the above objects,
aud all such objects as may from time to time be
determined by the Association is the object of the
Association. Investigating matters in bankruptcy,
and attending meetings of creditors on behalf of
its members ; making trade enquiries and giving
information generally useful to its members are also
within the Association's purview. Debts are col-
lected at a commission of 5 per cent, on amounts
not exceeding £20, and 21 per cent, on amounts
exceeding £20.

The special benefits obtained from being a mem-
ber of this association (not given by ordinary trade
protection societies), are that it is confined to the
nursery and seed trade and the trades allied
therewith ; its members agree to give to each other,
through the secretary, mutual private information
as to the financial position, and character of pur.

Citrate of Lime and Concentrated Lemon aud Lime
Juice ; Jamaica Woods for the Royal Yacht ; Ex-
periments with Insecticides on Scale Insects ;
Synoptical List of Ferns, lvii.— The Tropical Agri-
culturist, February, 1899.— From the Vermont
Agricultural Experiment Station, Burlington, Vt.,
Bulletin.TSo. 67, December, 1S9S.— Hybrid Plums,
by F. A. Waugh. — New York Agricultural Experi-
ment Station, Geneva, N.Y., Bulletin, No. 146,
November, 1S98 ; Some Exfi rinu nis in Forcing
Head Lettuce, S. A. Beach ; and Built tin 147,
December, 1S9S, Variety Tests of Strawberries,
Raspbt rrii s, awl Blackbi rries, Wendell Paddock. —
Annates Agronomiques, February 25. Including
papers on : La baisse des prix et lai crise agricole ;
Observations sur la dosage de l'azote, par le pro-
cede Kjeldahl, par Mil. Maquenne et Roux ; Influ-
ence des pluies et de la nature des terres sur le
reudementdes fourrages, parM. Pagnoul ; and notice,
sur les travaux de M. G. L. Prosper Demontzey, par
M. Emile Mer. — Annual Report, List of Members,
etc., of the National Dahlia Society, 1899. — Nature
Notes; March.

Notices of Books.

Bush Fruits. By F. W. Card.

This is a work which treats upon a comprehen-
sive, variety of bush fruits, as cultivated uuder the
climatic conditions of the United States, but, in
our opinion, it contains but little matter of any prac-
tical value to the British fruit grower ; at all events,
our own experience witb those numerous varieties
we have given honest fair trial to from time to
time has been, to say the least of it, very disap-
pointing. Our treatment has certainly been at
variance with that recommended, aud which we are
very sceptical about, for the author tells us at p. 346,
that "Gooseberries and Currants succeed especially
well with mulching. Any refuse material, like
straw, wild grass, weeds, or even coal-ashes may be
used. "

We should be sorry to use coal-ashes on our land
in any form.

Again, p. 37.5, one of the remedies suggested for
mildew is a mulching of manure, stone, tin cans, or
old boots ; we certainly shall not experiment with
the tin cans, nor old boots either. "Vigorous
pruning is recommended for Gooseberries that are
to be picked green." There, again, our notions are
antagonistic, our method has hitherto been to
prune less for this crop than the other trees which
are left to ripen their crop, and we have also found
it advantageous to go over the trees immediately
the crop was gathered, removing the thin and
exhausted spray wood, with a view of admitting
light and warmth to ripen the newly-formed wood
left foi next season's supply.

A "Planet Gem Cultivator" is also said to be
the best fertiliser. This is stated in a chapter
headed "Raspberry Cultivation," which makes us
again sceptical, seeing what a surface-rooter the
Raspberry is in this country.

Elaborate botanical descriptive lists of the most
approved respective kinds of berried fruits are fur-
nished. Insect pests are described and methods
given how best to control them.

Concerning the evaporating, drying, and canning
of bush fruits there is a vast amount of sound, useful
information, but at the present time chiefly applic-
able to the States' fruit growers. To sum up, the
entire book is, to our mind, much more technical
than practical to the ordinary British fruit grower.
W. G. J/.

Wood and Garden.*

" I think there are but few things so interesting
as to see in what way a person whose perception
we think fine and worthy of study will give them
expression in a garden." p. 279.

Some of us have looked upon the lady-gardener as
being in some sort a modern innovation,, but in
reality she has an ancestry dating from the days of
Eden. Even the manual labour of the garden was
performed by female hands in early times, just as it

• Wood and Garden: Notes and Thoughts, Practical and
Critical, of a Working An-.ateur, by Gertrude Jekyll. Illus-
trated from photographs by the author. Svo, pp. 286, with
index (London : Longmans, Green & Co., 39, Paternoster
Row, E.C.).

156

THE GAB DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

is to-day in many little-known lands between our-
Belves and the equator. All through mediaeval
times the gardens of castle or of moated grange
alike depended mainly on the able lady-gardeners
of the period, who now and then did splendid
architectural work as well, of which the beautiful
example at Hardwick, erected by Elizabeth of
Shrewsbury, must now serve as illustration.

Men in early times did the righting and hunting,
and even the writing or compiling of books on gar-
dening was, as a rule, done by them also in the
sixteenth, seventeenth, and eighteenth centuries ;
but we are glad to say that the modern lady gar-
deners are writing books on the craft them-
selves. To woman's taste and influence, even
though aided by manly labour, is due much, even
if not most, of the best gardening of our time.
Good and gentle gardeners at heart, it is very
pleasant to see that they are taking up the pen as
well as the spade and pruning-hook, so as to give us
precepts as to how our gardens may be made satis-
fying, or in other words more economically useful,
more exquisitely beautiful than man has already
caused them to be. During the past few years
we have had quite a little library of gardening
books by ladies added to our shelves. Amongst
many others there are Days and Hours in a
Garden, by E. V. B. (Hon. Mrs. E. V. Boyle) ;
and Gardens and Woodlands, by the late Miss
F. J. Hope, of Wardie, Edinburgh ; then there is
Pot-Pourri from a Surrey Garden, by Mrs. Earle,
exceedingly interesting from the broadly human,
as well as the special gardening, point of view ; and
now this charming Wood and Garden comes upon
us as fresh and as welcome as a summer's shower.
Like the last-named work, too, this one deals with
beautiful Surrey, with its flowery lanes and Heath
and Juniper-clad commons, its pretty cottage and
roadside gardens, and the flowers, which seem to
be most happy there.

Miss Jekyll is well known to many of our readers
as having long been a practical artist gardener, and
her art was nothing to her if it could not be used
to elevate and ennoble homely things. One of her
first phases of teaching was that which led some of
us to try and plant our herbaceous borders so as
to obtain floral and leaf-beauty for at least most
part of the. year. Then again she led us to mass
or group our colours, so that they helped each
other, avoiding the jarring note and the dot-
ting of all sorts of tints over the same area.
Again, in the choice and use of cut flowers, our
authoress has been essentially helpful, and a series
of simple flower-glasses she designed have been
very generally used in both town and country
houses, and their use alone has led to a more
simple, natural, and more enduring manner of using
beautiful blossoms and leafage indoors.

Like all really good gardeners. Miss Jekyll has a
firm and clear idea of what she likes best, and
of how much [of it she wishes to employ, in
simple accordance with the effect desirable of
attainment. On nearly every page of the book
before us the reader is clearly shown that one may
possess in plenty the best of plants, on the best of
soils, and give all the advantages of good culture,
and yet fail in having a pleasing and enjoyable
gardeu.

The plants represent, let us say, form and colour ;
the garden itself is the palette and canvas com-
bined. The summation of the artist's ideal depends
on how they are grouped, or mixed, or arranged ;
for to the trained eye, unless there is what is
called feeling or drawing in the arrangement,
much, or even all effect is lost.

In other words, as Miss Jekyll herself tells us at
p. 15", " It is not the paint that makes the picture,
but the brain, and heart, and hand, of the man
who uses it."

Again (p. 70), she says: — "I always think it
desirable to group together flowers that bloom at
the same time. It is impossible, and even undesir-
able to have a garden in blossom [all over, and
groups of flower beauty are all the more enjoyable

for being more or less isolated by stretches of
intervening greenery."

Again, the following extracts tell their own tale,
and will give the reader interested a far better and
higher notion of the book itself than any words
of mine could do : —

" In the following chapters I have laid special stress
upon gardening for beautiful effect .... I am
strongly for treating garden and wooded ground in
a pictorial way mainly with large effects, and in
the second place, with lesser beautiful incidents,
and for so arrauging plants, trees, and grassy spaces,
that they look happy and at home, and make uo
parade of conscious effort.

'• I try for beauty and harmony everywhere, and
especially for harmony of colour. A garden so
treated gives the delightful feeling of repose and
refreshment, and purest enjoyment of beauty . . . •
For I hold that the best purpose of a garden is to
give delight, and to give refreshment of mind, to
soothe, to refine, and to lift up the heart iu a
spirit of praise and thankfulness."

1. The lesson I have thoroughly learnt, and wish
to pass on to others, is to know the enduring
happiness that the love of a garden gives.

•2. " The love of gardening is a seed, that, once
sown never dies, but always grows, and grows to an
enduring and ever increasing source of happiness.

3. The conditions of different gardens vary so
greatly, even when soil and situation appear to be
alike, and they are in the same district. Nature is
such a subtle chemist, that one never knows what
she is about, or what surprises she may have iu
store for us.

On pp. 14 and 15 we are told of the finding of
the white Iris stylosa by the Rev. Edwyn Ark-
wright twenty-five years ago or so at a place called
"ElSahel," about five miles from Algiers, where
it grew amongst scrub of Myrtle, Cistus, and dwarf
Oaks. &c. Mr. Aikwright dug up the one plant
ami put it into his garden, where Duraudo saw it
and took off his hat to the lonely flower !

Of the late Mr. Webb's Nut-tree nursery at
Calcot, near Beading, a bright little sketch in
words is given on p. 11. The place was secluded
by a wall, and one had to wait, as at a monastery,
until someone answered the deep-toned bell. Then
the great mastiffs barked, and the quaint owner
appeared, and our authoress saw the rows and clumps
of great Nut-bushes, and the pale double Cernuus
Daffodils and Polyanthus, at that time so remark-
able there ; a delightful old-world tone hung over
the place, and as Miss Jekyll says, "It was the
only nursery I ever saw where one would expect
to see fairies on a summer's night." Now and
then we are told that the best arrangements are the
natural ones, "over the garden wall," so to say, as
on p. 154. " Near my home is a little wild valley,
whose planting, wholly done by Nature, 1 have
all my life regarded with the most reverent
admiration."

Aud again, on p. 156 : — "No artificial planting
cau ever equal that of Nature, but one may learn
from it the great lesson of moderation and reserve,
of simplicity of intention and directness of purpose,
and the inestimable value of the quality called
' breadth ' iu paiuting. For planting ground is
painting a landscape with living things ; and as I
hold that good gardening takes rank within the
bounds of the fine arts, so I hold that to plant
well needs an artist of no mean capacity. And his
difficulties are not slight ones, for his living picture
must be right from all points and in all lights."

P. 176, as to the size of gardens, we are told : —
"I do not envy the owners of very large gardens.
The garden should fit its master, or his tastes, just
as his clothes do ; it should be neither too large
nor too small."

P. 177: — " Nothing is more satisfactory than to
see the well-designed and well-organised garden of
the large country-house, whose master loves his
garden aud has good taste, and a reasonable amount
of leisure."

P. 00, May, music in the wood :— "The song of
the nightingale, and the ring of the woodman's axe,

gain a rich musical quality from the great Fir- wood.
Why a wood of Scotch Fir has this wonderful
property of a kind of musical reverberation I do not
know, but so it is ; any sound that occurs within it
is, on a lesser scale, like a sound in a cathedral. The
tree itself when struck gives a musical note. Strike
an Oak or an Elm on the trunk with a stick, and
the sound is mute ; strike a Scotch Fir, and it is a
note of music."

P. 176, Then of the clergyman as a gardener : —
"The conditions of the life of a parish priest
would tend to make him a good gardener, for
while other men roam about, he stays mostly at
home, and to live with one's garden is one of the
best ways to ensure its welfare. And then, among
the many anxieties, and vexations, aud disap-
pointments that must needs grieve the heart of the
pastor of his people, his garden, with its whole-
some labour, and all its lessons of patience, and
trust, and hopefulness, and its comforting power
of solace, must be one of the best of medicines for
the healing of his often sorrowing soul."

P. 73 : — Rhododendrous aud Tree P;eonies are
especial favourites of our authoress, who, like many
others, regrets that they are so often sold grafted
on commou stocks, that prove a source of trouble
instead of being established on their own roots.
With regard to the Tree or Moutan P»ony she
writes : —

"It is a matter of regret that varieties of the
better kinds of Moutan are not generally grown on
their own roots, and still more so that the stock
in common use should not even be the typical Tree
P:eony, but one of the herbaceous kinds, so that we
have plants of a hard-wooded shrub worked on a
thing as soft as a Dahlia-root. This is probably
why they are so difficult to establish, aud so slow
to grow. . . . Every now and then, just before
blooming time, a plant goes oft' all at once, smitten
with sudden death."

Of perfume, p. '234 : — " Perhaps the most de-
lightful of all flower scents are those whose tender
and delicate quality make oue wish for just a little
more, Such a scent is that of Apple-blossom, ami
of some small Pansies, and of the wild Roses, aud
the Honeysuckle."

Page 236 :— "But of all the sweet scents of bush
or flower, the ones that give me the greatest
pleasure are those of the aromatic class, where
they seem to have a wholesome resiuous or bal-
samic base, with a delicate perfume added. When
I pick and crush in my hand a twig of Bay, or
brush against a bush of Rosemary, or tread upon a
tuft of Thyme, or pass through incense-laden brakes
of Cistus, I feel that here is all that is best, and
purest, and most refined, and nearest to poetry in
the range of faculty of the sense of smell."

The book is well printed, on good paper, and
consists of 286 pages with index, aud 60 or 70
illustrations from photographs taken by Miss
Jekyll herself, and many of them are very beau-
tiful, special justice being done to the native
Juniper, aud to the Birch-trees, Rhododendrons,
and hardy flowers, both in the borders and wild
garden. The views of Clematis aud Roses, &c,
over the arched doorways and pergola are charm-
ing ; aud "The Woodman," at p. 159 is quite a
picture in its way, as also is the frontispiece of Iris
near doorway, aud the Giant Lily, p. 96, with the
Savonarola-like figure gazing up at their great white
bells.

Miss Jekyll's book is so fresh and good, so wel-
come and enjoyable, that it certainly ought to
find a welcome wherever gardening is appre-
ciated, and we hope a second edition will afford
the fair authoress au opportunity of correcting and
amending the few errors and misprints it contains,
such as Corchorus for Kerria on p. 50 ; Amelau-
cheir for Amolanchier on p. 52 ; families for genera
on p. 53. Again, we are told that the Carnation
was made the subject of a whole chapter in Parkin-
son's Parailiiii.1 Te.rrtstris, "a distinction shared
by no other flower ;" but we always thought that
the same distinction was conferred by that dear
and genial old gardener on the Narcissus, the

March 11, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

15^

Tulip, to say nothing of the Pritillary, and the
Rose.

The arrangement of the book is calendarial, a
chatty article on the flowers and shrubs and trees
being devoted to each month of the year. There is
also a pleasant introduction and special chapters on
the Primrose Garden, Colours of Flowers ; the
Scents of the Garden ; the Worship of False Gods ;
Novelty and Variety ; Weeds and Pests ; the Bed-
ding Fashion and its Influence : and a very potent
and suggestive article on "Masters and Men,'' one-
sided though it be, for there are narrow-minded,
and so far as gardening goes, very igooraut masters
as well as men. F. W. Burbidge.

Home Correspondence.

WHAT CONSTITUTES ODONTOGLOSSUM WILCKE-
ANUM. — As Mr. Rolfe " quite disposes" of most of
my remarks hereon, by reciting his phrase anent
the " Golden Queeu,'' viz., " it is quite possible that
it is a form of the variable 0. Wilckeanum, &c. " ;
for a definite statement that Golden Queen is a
Wilckeanum I am pleased, aud here the discussion
ends. Henceforth it ranks as 0. Wilckeanum
Golden Queen, and one of the most beautiful
varieties of this handsome hybrid. I can pass over
his interpreting my letter as "bad taste;" and as
to the words "strictly true," — well, perhaps, he
might have used others, though I do not take them
in any sense "personal or offensive." Far from
forgetting his article on 0. Wilckeanum (0. I!..
July 1803, pp. 201 to 204), I was astonished in 1897
at his remarks upon 0. Wilckeanum Goldeo
Queen, for in 1893 he had laid down precedent
enough to include it " definitely, " but his remarks
implied (to me) that he thought he may have gone
too wide in 1893, aud felt it needful to draw in a
little closer. Now we are agreed. Mr. Kolfe has
"no desire to dogmatise." I do not call it dogma-
tising, to have as definite a standpoint in a crispum
as in a luteo-purpureum. This latter is, in all
its forms, a more constant species than crispum,
or what has been included under crispum, up
to the present time. If we take the two
extremes of crispum and luteo-purpureum,
laying down clear definitions for the true species,
we shall then be able to travel inwards from
the two species to the midway hybrid, viz., an 0.
Wilckeanum, having equal shares in the characters
of both parents, such as O. Wilckeanum var. Leroy-
anum, the first Odontoglossum that bloomed from
seedlings raised in Europe, its description is roughly,
sepals white, the brown of luteo-purpureum,
broken into tbe usual three bar-blotches of Wilcke-
anum, petals ditto, having the large outer blotch and
two inner large spots, those two being placed one
above the other. The lip is almost entirely covered
with reddish-brown, of which colour are the markings
of the sepals and petals. In form, shape, and colour,
this variety is fairly intermediate. Ithiukif Reicheu-
bach had been more dogmatic, Mr. Rolfe and I would
have had nothing to discuss. In reply to his
request for home-raised hybrids, I think he must
have forgotten that I have been, and am doing, all
I cau to clear up this matter, and if he, or anyone,
will tell me how to germinate the seeds in greater
quantity, it will take but a very short time to set
it all at rest once and for ever. Why can not a
great national establishment like Kew Gardens
render all orchidists a great help by having a scien-
tific collection of Orchids, and work them out
botauically ! [It has. Ed.] Dt B. Crawshay, Feb.ZJ.

WINTER ACONITE.— I should like to add my con-
tribution, which, though not in harmony with what
others have said about the Winter Aconite, is, I am
quite sure, perfectly accurate. Wheu I was a boy
1 passed a great deal of my time in the East Riding
of Yorkshire, and the rectory garden of Hotham,
near Market Weighton, was, and is still, the home
of my affections. An uncle, who passed all his
life of considerably more than 80 years there, aud
his father before him, who exceeded 90 years in
the same spot, were alike devoted to their garden,
and Winter Aconites were held in the highest esti-
mation, and suffered to grow wild. They covered
every inch of soil in the large shrubberies on either
side of the garden ; they used to rnn over into the
kitchen garden, from which they should have been
instantly expelled. They were to be found here
and there in the borders of the flower garden, and

a small paddock was invaded by them without any
restriction being made. I have never seen such a
profusion of Winter Aconites anywhere else, and
though I know that the whole place has goue to
wrack and ruin since the period to which I refer, I
feel certain that if auy of your readers are af all
near Hotham Gardens in the East Fading of York-
shire, they would rind there still myriads of these
Winter Aconites, for they never cau, by any possi-
bility, be exterminated after the strong hold they
were allowed to get upon the place. Now, my
point, after all this long story, is the following : —
Mr. Stillingfleet has over aud over again said to me
in the last day of the year, " I always expect to
find an Aconite in blossom before the old year is
out, and I am seldom disappointed in my search."
There was something like a superstition about it,
and things were always supposed to be going very
wrong if no specimeu was found. In remembrance
of this, I always expect my Aconites in the Isle of
Wight to give me a blossom or two on the lent day
of the year ; at auy rate, I never fail to look for
them, aud now aud theu I am rewarded with
success. But the case at Ryde is vastly different
from what I remember at Hotham. I can only
afford to have a patch here and there on accouut of
want of room, aud though the climate lights for nie,
aud does it well, it is in early January and not in
December at all that the first blossom generally
appears. The outcome of it, so far as Winter
Aconites are concerned, is the following : — If it be
a great point to have them soon, or rather, I should
say, very late in the year, it is everything to grow
these plants in multitude, to leave them quite alone,
to let them get well hold of the ground, aud then I
should think that in other parts of England besides
the cold and bleak East Riding of Yorkshire, the
dates which some of your correspondents have
given for their appearance will be left far behind,
and whether the preceding summer has been hot or
cold, dry or wet. Winter Aconites will be quite
t rue to their name if December 31st is a winter day.
J/' wry Embank.

BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE. — In the inter-
esting notes that have lately appeared in connection
with this hybrid, it seems to be generally admitted
that female flowers are produced, although gene-
rally not more than two or three are to be found
upon a plant. In 1S97 one plant was bought here,
and last year a number of plants was raised from it,
two or three of which have always produced female
flowers in considerable numbers. Ou one there
wore counted twenty-four, ou another eight cap-
sules. These two plauts are those in the front of
tbe photograph which I scud you, aud it wdl be
noticed the great difference in the habit of these
plants, being more compact and their flowers pro-
duced ou much shorter inflorescences, on each of
which inflorescence may be counted two or three
female flowers. The plaut at the back represents
the ordinary type of growth iu this plaut, aud on
none of these are found more thau two female
flowers, aud many are without them altogether.
Seeds saved in 1897 were sown, but none ger-
minated, and this year I have sown seed which is
supposed to be cross-fertilised, but no sign of ger-
mination has yet been observed. Examined under
the microscope, the polleu grains present a very
empty appearance, compared with other species and
varieties more readily fertilised, although they are
found iu good numbers. /.'. L. Harrow, Edinburgh.

PRUNING SHRUBS.-How greatly I agree with
the protest made iu your leader of Saturday last
agaiust the too common barbarous practice of
pruning, so called, but really clipping of all shrubs,
no matter what, into round headed forms all
alike, all wretchedly formal. It is the practice
here iu Kingston, on our otherwise charming
promenades aud recreation grounds, and protesting
seems to be of no use whatever. It is a case
literally of uselessly striving to make silk purses.
There is no taste, natural or artificial, and the
public from lack of better knowledge, seem to
regard the practice as the right thing. Except on
a hedge, where their use may be sometimes tolerable
but not always, shears should never be allowed to
touch a shrub ; a good sharp knife is the proper
instrument, and its use judiciously always enables
shrubs to be kept witbiu bounds and yet to retain
their natural forms. I have no doubt, those who
shear shrubs in the offensive way referred to,
excuse the practice on the ground of want of time
to prune with a knife. But in the case of shearing,
the process must be done annually, whilst with
many shrubs knife pruning need be performed but

once in two years. It is most exasperating to any
one endowed with natural tastes to walk along our
promenades and see thousands of otherwise liue
shrubs hard-trimmed to one rigid form or outline.
It is something so obnoxious that it would never be
tolerated in any good private garden. Much of the
planting at the outset was bad, coarse growing and
dwarf habited shrubs being mixed up indiscrimi-
nately, aud now the shears are applied to make
the stronger oues to be iu unison with the
growth of the others. A. D.

MARECHAL NIEL ROSE.— In reply to corres-
pondents you say of this rose, " a stock which would
grow as fast as this Rose, is what is wanted ; " that
is to prevent the gouty formation of bark or
cambium at the union, because the stock is in-
capable of passing it rootwards. Why do nursery-
men persist in budding on to Briar and Mauetti
stocks, when they could work from cuttings
Madame Herald, Gloire de Dijou, or other very free
growing variety, aud use those as stocks. Better
still if pains be taken to work these on to the Briar-
stock, then rebud into the strong growing Rose. I
adopted that plan of double working at Bedfout
years ago, including also for secondary stocks Marie
Henriette aud Lamarque Versailles, both stroug
growers, aud was never troubled with gouty
swellings. On a direct Briar-worked plant, the
seion-stem became inordinately swollen. A. D.
[Now is the time to obtain and plant the strong
growing Roses that our correspondent names, and
others of equal or stronger growth, as for example
the Ayrshire Rambler, Crimson Rambler, and
others of that sort, which make strong, long shoots,
and grow well on their own roots. Ed.]

MR. BENNETT'S STRAWBERRIES.— Is it not

probable that the odd or contradictory action of
Koyal Sovereign aud Noble Strawberry plants, when
forced this season, mentioned by Mr. Bennett, is due
to the diverse action upon them of so hot and dry
a season as was that of last year. It would be
inferred from the unwonted earliuess of Koyal
Sovereign this season that it was more capable than
Noble, with its broad leathery leaves, of with-
standing great heat aud drought, hence it has pro-
duced stronger or at least more quickly matured
crowns. Then Royal Sovereign may have similar
capacity to throw runners earlier under such con-
ditions as existed last year than Noble. No doubt
when plauts of diverse varieties, treated alike in
all respects iu pots and forced alike, show as a rule
iiifiuitessimal flowering differences ; but that oue
should fruit three weeks before the other is
remarkable. A. D.

suburban GARDENS.— The following may be
useful as addenda to the interesting remarks on
"Suburban Gardens," p. 113. Evelyn twice
mentions the Orange trees at Bedington, the
second time in 1700, when he states they "were
now in decay." At this period they were neglected.
Their age is mentioned as 120 years. The Caper-
bush (Capparis spinosa) at Cambden House, had
also a history. Miller refers to it as "an old
plaut growing out of a wall in the gardeus,
which has resisted the cold for many years, and
anuually produces many flowers, but the youug
shoots are frequently killed to the stump every
winter." (!) A strange experience if we accept the
statement literally. Queen Anne's work at Ken-
Bin'gton Gardens is thus described by Swit/.er
(Ichnographia Rustics, vol. i.). " Her first works
were the rooting-up of the Box, aud giving an
English model to the old made gardeus at Ken-
sington ; and in 1704 made that new garden
behind the greenhouse, which is esteem'd amougst
the most valuable pieces of work that has been
done anywhere. The place where that beautiful
hollow now is was a large irregular gravel-pit,
which according to several designs given in was to
have been fill'd ; but that Mr. Wise prevail'd, and
has given it that surprising model it now appears
in." Wise succeeded Rose as royal gardener, and is
perhaps now best known as a partner of the great
nursery firm of London & Wise, at Brompton.
R. P. B.

THE DROPMORE CEDAR AVENUE.— The illustra-
tion of this avenue (fig. 52, in last issue), recalls an
interesting conversation I ouce had with that clever
old gardener whose name is so intimately associated
with Dropmore — Philip Frost. We were standing
by the famous Dropmore Douglas Fir, and he was
describing in his unctuous manner how, after a visit
to Kew, he brought, iu his waistcoat pocket, the

158

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

cutting from which it was raised. 1 asked him how
he came to plant this tree on such an elevated
mound. He gave me one of his comical looks, and
replied in his favourite curt fashion, "The mound
wasn't there when I planted the tree." I saw he
wanted to give an explanation of this paradox in his
own way, so I humoured him by putting on an air of
contradictory incredulity, which was rewarded by
a graphic account that would occupy too much
space to repeat verbatim. I will therefore give the
results of what he told me. Many years ago his
mistress, Lady Grenville, anxious to give her hus-
band a pleasant surprise on his return from the
Continent, determined, during his absence, to much
enlarge his lordship's favourite fish-pond. Frost
was told to set about the work and get it done
and in carrying out the order came upon a bed of
marl of such value that he determined to carefully
save it up for use in the kitchen garden. He was
for a time at his wits' end to know where to store
it, for there were mauy hundreds of loads. At last
he fixed upon a large space behiud the Cedars in
the avenue ; and there it remained for two or three
years undisturbed. When at length he wanted a
supply for the garden, he found the marl full of
healthy young roots, -which he soon satisfied him-
self were roots of the Cedars. This set him think-
ing, and led him to begin, tentatively, top dressing
some of his conifers with marl, among them the
Douglas Fir. A very dry summer following caused
him to bring the fire-engine into use to pump water
from the fish-pond to saturate the ground about
this and other trees. Rapid growtli resulting from
this treatment, he from time to time repeated it,
until, he told me, he put altogether more thau 300
loads of marl over the roots of this one tree, and
thus made the mound I had asked about. He ex-
pressed a very confident opinion that it was to this
feeding of the surface roots with marl aud pond
water that the development of the tree in such an
unusual degree was to be attributed. Many of the
conifers at Dropmore were similarly treated, aud
generally with satisfactory results. F. W. B.

ADIANTUM FARLEYENSE VAR. ALCICORNE.— I
notice in your issue of March 4, that this is des-
cribed as a hybrid variety, which I think is in-
correct. In our native species, A. capillus veneris,
the plumose forms are precisely akin to Farleyense
and its sub-variety alcicorne in the great expansion
of the sub-divisions in the one case and the incised
character coupled therewith in the other. . In these
varieties, both found wild in this country, there is
obviously no question of hybridism, since there are
no other indigenous species, and the history of
Farleyense, so far as I am acquainted with it, in-
volves no reason to consider it as other than the
plumose form of A tenerum. I notice that in
Ferns, British and Foreign (J. Smith), the observa-
tion is made that "This' has the general habits of
A. tenerum, but it is a much larger growing plant,
aud as it does not produce fructification, it is sup-
posed to be a hybrid originated iu a garden in the
island of Barbados ; " but its barrenness proves
nothing, plumose sports being often quite barren,
as in the case of our plumose Polypodies (P. v.
cambricum in several forms), and Scolopendriums
(S. v. crispum), and only sparsely fertile as com-
pared with the normal in all cases. In the cases of
true hybrids, moreover, the barrenness takes a
different form, incipient seeds and spores, or at any
rate, ovaries aud sporangia appearing sometimes
in abundance, though nothing results from sowing.
I venture, therefore, to class A. Farleyense and A.
F. alcicorne as simply true plumose sports of
tenerum (or possibly tentum) and certainly not
hybrids, the variation being identical with that of
A. cap. veneris cornubiense, a natural sport. Chas.
T. Druery, F.L.S., V.M.S.

SEVERE WEATHER IN FLORIDA.— On the night
of Sunday, Feb. 12, 1899, we had one of the worst
frosts that poor Florida has ever had. On my way
to the station to catch the early train for Jackson-
ville, my ears and fingers felt as if they had been
frost bitten. On arrival at Jacksonville the streets
were one sheet of ice, as it had rained the night
before. I could not post my letter at the first
pillar-box as the lid was frozen, so had to go else-
where to mail it. The steamer for Mayport was
covered with icicles, and had a most arctic appear-
ance. The thermometer went down to 6°. I saw
ice over 4 inches thick, and fear that there are now
few Orange groves or patches of Pineapples left
alive in Florida. E. Burslem Thomson, St. Avgus-
Vne, Feb., 1899.

MUSHROOM-MOULD.— It is not very obvious
why D. M., in the last week's issue, p. 131, should
be so very anxious for the name of this fungus, why
he should call it '•nameless," or why he should
dread the possibility of an application to Germany
for a name and description. Growers of plants
have generally shared with me a great contempt
for fungus names. Names will not clear the grimy
old railway tunnel of its tartarean darkness, its
stagnant air, its foul dung, its nematoid worms,
and its microbes, the " Mushrooms " that emerge
from such subterranean and infectious places are
not Mushrooms at all they are — D. M. is anxious
for a name — microbe-iufested Psalliota?. What a
difference there is between the true Mushrooms, as
I find them here iu the sweet upland pastures and
on the breezy downs, and the dung-borne maggoty
abortions I sometimes see exposed for sale iu town
markets. Now the name of the fungus of Mush-
room-mould is as well known as the name of the
"disused Scotland-street" railway tunnel, and if
D. M. will look through the Answers to Corres-
pondents of back numbers of the Gardeners'
Chronicle, he will see the name given over and
over again, and also discover that the name was
not giveu by the all-knowing Kaiser. If he cannot
get at back numbers of the G. C, he should buy
the Guide to the Models of Fungi, British Museum,
Cromwell Road, London, price -id., post free Set,
and on page 33 he will see the name given as
" Mycogone alba, Letell, a stage in the development
of a species of Hypomyces." That information
ought to spread consternation amongst the spores
and microbes of the railway tunnel ; if not, let
D. M. repeat the following in a loud voice : —
"Hypomyces is an Ascomycetous genus of the
Sphwriacei allied to Hypocrea, Oomyces, aud the
Mushroom-bed infesting Xylaria pedunculate."
Descriptions aud " life histories " of all these will
be found iu elementary books in and out of
Germany. W. G. S , Dunstable.

THE CAPER-BUSH. —Bradley's New Improve-
ments, ttc, affirms that seeds of the Caper-bush
must be sown ou an old wall as the only method of
inducing the plant to grow out of doors in England.
A letter from Bradley to Laureuce, headed Camden
House, January 25, 1715, and copied in The Fruit
Garden Kalender of the last named, points to a
very strong probability of Bradley having been the
person who either sowed, or as having given direc-
tions for sowing, the Caper on the old wall. The
proprietor of Camden House was " Mr. Balla," a
friend of Bradley's. K. P. B.

FUCHSIAS.— Although these plauts may be
easily raised from seed, a fact which should com-
mend itself to amateur gardeners, still very
few persons seem to do so, probably because the
plants and the finest varieties can be so easily pro-
pagated by cuttings. But this method of increase
can only be conducted successfully where there is
a greenhouse or frame to winter the old plauts, if
kept through that season, or the cuttings, if put iu
iu the autumn ; then from cuttings only the
old variety is produced, whereas from seed diverse
varieties are produced. Then seed is fairly cheap,
and readily germinates. It should be sown in
gentle warmth as soon as is now possible, using for
the purpose 5-inch pots, well drained, and fine
sandy soil. The seeds should be thinly placed, be
gently pressed in, have a sprinkling of fine soil put
over them, be then very lightly watered and stood
iu the greenhouse or frame to germinate. A
little heat enables growth to ensue early. If no
heat can be furnished, it is a good plau to stand
the pots in a shallow box, which is covered closely
with glass, and place that into the greenhouse or
frame, as in that way a more equable temperature
is created, aud the box can be covered up at night.
But such sowiugs should not be made until the
middle of March, as without heat nothing is gained
by the slow rate of germination which follows too
early sowing. Seedling Fuchsias need to be grown
quickly. Naturally of a free pyramidal habit, it is
desirable to eucourage the seedliugs to develop that
habit rapidly when quite young, as in that way the
foundation of agood specimen is lair). Seedling plants
also less readily flowers, which is again all the better,
as they form liner plants first. But when raised in
warmth from an early sowing, the young plants,
when 4 inches in height, should be put singly
into 3-inch pots ; from these latter into 5-inch
pots, and then, a month or so later, they should
get a final shift into 7 or even 8-inch pots. They
make quite fine specimens, aud will bloom through

the autumn finely and profusely. Such plants,
when got into the larger pots, may be very
effectively used in beds aud borders, buryiug the
pots iu the soil, this, whilst giving more root-run,
also helps to check uudue growth, and promotes
flowering. These plants, partially shortened early
in the winter, can lie housed in any cool place from
which frost is excluded, aud when removed into a
greenhouse, and the light in the spring, new shoots
break out, aud the plants are soon furnished. In
such case they can have a shift into 9-inch pots, to
flower as specimens during the summer ; or in May
they can be planted out into beds thinly, where they
will bloom finely all the summer. Where Fuchsias
are needed for beddiug, of oue colour and form of
growth, of course the plants must be raised from
cuttings ; aud where needed for exhibition, not only
must the plants be so raised, but they should be
from the best varieties. Not that those which pro-
duce the largest blooms are best for that purpose,
by any means ; it is rather those which, whilst
very free and continuous bloomers, also bear transit
well, a matter of the first importance iu the case of
many exhibition plants, but in none more so than
with fine Fuchsias. Whilst the showing of these
peculiarly beautiful objects as exhibition specimens
Beems fast falling into desuetude, a matter much to
be regretted, they have taken quite a new lease of
life as bedding or ordinary garden decorative plants.
Iu uot a few cases noble bushes several years old
bloomiug profusely all the season, and in large
pots sunk iuto lawns, or standing beside walks, or
ou corridors, make very beautiful objects. No
doubt, for this purpose, the massive bush form is
best, as being less exposed to wind than are tall
staudards or pyramids, yet if placed where some-
what sheltered from rough winds these make very
beautiful objects. Possibly, wider knowledge that
Fuchsias cau be raised so readily from seed may do
much to help promote wider culture for them. A. D.

SOUVENIR DE LA MALMAISON
CARNATIONS.

Permit me to describe my methods of cultivation
iu regmlto " Malmaisous " for the iufor .nation o
others who may not be well versed iu the matter.
I will assume that the fact of the plauts pos-iessiug
peculiarities, and that they are not ameuable to the
methods found to answer with other varieties, is
known to all readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle,
aud I will begin with the operation of layering.
My practice has been to secure the cleanest plants,
aud layer at about nine inches from the tip of the
leaves, although in the case of two-year-old plants
four inches is best, the plauts not being leggy. Let
the incision be made under aud halfway through a
node, slitting the shoot up to the next node or joint,
and press the hooked peg firmly in the earth. The
layers root quicker when nearly severed. Afford
the plant and layers an abuudant application of
water, aud keep the frame close for three weeks or
a month, when you will be able to detect roots, aud
air should be given for about three days. On the
fourth day sever the layers from the plauts and pot
them, keeping them close for a few days after-
wards.

Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations like shade
and moisture ; never, therefore, allow strong sun-
shine to fall direct on them, or permit the air to get
very dry. The layers may first go into 2-inch pots,
aud at the next shift iuto 4-inch ones in six weeks,
aud either iu the first week of the new year for
early flowering, or later for your latest batch, re-
pot into 6-iueh pots ; but never allow the largest
plauts to become pot-bound by waiting for the
smaller ones, rather pot the former, and the latter
iu about three weeks later. The proper kind of
soil consists of loam two-thirds (which should be
pulled to pieces by hand, and the tine particles
sifted out of it), one-third of leaf mould, a small
quantity of soot, a 9-inch pot of quarter-inch bones
to a wheelbarrow load of loam, and some silver sand,
not pot the plants very firmly, and for the final
potting use half-inch bones over crocks. On all
favourable occasions let the plants besyriuged with
lain water, twice a day in the summer and once a
week in the winter, or whenever the air will dry
the plauts. An insecticide may be used in this way
once a week,

»v

March 11, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

159

I would advocate the use of rain water solely,
and in the winter to keep on the dry side, although a
plant should never be so dry as to flag. In the
summer the plants require to be afforded water
carefully, using soot in it occasionally, and artificial
mauurc much diluted in water, or sprinkled as
powder on the surface.

In mild weather the veutilators should be kept
open at all seasons, reducing the air iulets to an
inch in width when frost is slight, but closing them
quite in bad weather. Warming the heating-appara-
tus slightly in cold weather dries the air, and the
moisture does not condense ou the plants, aud ran
down to the collars of the plants, but the staging
must be kept damp ; and for covering, the use of
coke crushed small, or coal ashes in lieu of it. The
temperature should not fall below 4CT F. The soil
should be stirred with a pointed bit of stick when-
ever it has got hard, or the air will not be able to
reach the roots, and the soil will sour. The plants
which are to be potted for flowering in their second
year should be those which have brokeu low down,
aud these should be put iuto 8-inch pots soon after
flowering, and then again iuto 10-iuch about ten
weeks after. It is advisable then to layer such after
flowering, as they may have become inconveniently
large. If green-fly appears on the plants, use
Richards' XL-All, or as another meaus of prevention
fumigate once a fortnight. Against red-spider use
a wash consisting of soft-soap of the size of a hen's
egg, a 3-inch potful of tiowers-of-sulphur, aud two
gallons of rain water, aud apply with the syringe.
Plants which have the Carnation-rust will grow out
of it if they are looked over weekly, usiug methy-
lated spirits with a camel's-hair pencil on the rust
spots. This process prevents the rust spores from
blowing about ; then the infeoted parts should be
cut out and burnt. Last autumn I witnessed a
houseful of Malmaison Carnations thickly coated
with the rust, and the spores blowing about in
quantity. In a case like that, one should advise
syringing each plant with an insecticide, the stage
and woodwork being well syringed with petroleum
in soap-suds. The plants usually flower at the end
of May and June. In order to have plants in flower
in July and August, they must be placed in the
spring in cold frames on the side of a north wall or
tall building. These plants, which can only be
layered towards the end of the month of August,
will be the best for affording flowers the following
July and August. For winter blooming the plants
that flowered early in May, and were soon after-
wards shifted into 8-inch pots, are best. They
should be given a night temperature of 55° during
the flowering period. In order to have flowers at
the end of the month of April, and during the first
half of the next month, let the best of the two-
year-old plants be chosen, affording them a night
temperature of 55° after the New Year is passed.
John Owles, Nevoby Garden*, Ripon.

SOCMETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

February 23.— Present ; Dr. Muller, in the chair ; Rev.
W. Wilks, Mr. Michael, Mr. A. Sutton, Mr. E. F. Im Thuru,
and Rev. G. Henslow, Hon. Sec.

' 'elery, &c.t attach d by 'iruhs. —This was sent by Mrs.
Barnet, of Bilton Hall, Rugby, and. proved to be much infested
by millepedes (vegetable eaters) and centipedes (insectivorous),
but not wiivworm. The best remedy for these troublesome
grubs is gas-lime, or ordinary slaked lime ibuilder's second
quality), well mixed and dug in. It may possibly injure the
next year's crop to some extent.

Sweet Pea Seed.— Mr, Sutton described specimens of the
seed of certain varieties grown at Reading, remarkable for
the skins becoming wrinkled like a Marrowfat Pea; while in
one or two eases the Peas were so small that customers had
thought they must be defective ; whereas the smallest sorts
really gave rise to plants bearing the largest and best type
of flowers. In another variety the skin is invariably split.
"With none of these peculiarities, however, is there the slightest
dete ioration in the quality or character of the blossoms.

Shirley Poppy Seed.— Mr. Wilks observed that the seeds of

these Poppies are becoming of a pale grey colour, instead of
being nearly black, as was originally the ease with the old
type of the cultivated Papaver Rheeas bearing black anthers.

Apple Graft Variation. — Mr. Wilks showed samples of the
Mannington Pearmain Apple sent by Mr. Peter Veitch, and
taken from the original tree which supplied the fruit de-
scribed by Dr. Hogg, fifty years ago. It is a medium-sized
Apple, Russet in appearance, and rugose, with raised lines,
though tin' sample has scarcely a trace of bright coloration,
as stated in Hogg's description. The " improved " form was
devoid of all roughness, and brightly coloured with yellow
and red. It is now widely distributed by grafting, and this
improved form is the presenl recognised Mannington, though
widely different from the original type. Professor Bailey
records an analogous case in America, in that since the
original Newtown Pippin has been distributed over the
United States, it has assumed various forms, specially charac-
teristic of Apples growing in tin: different States, and even
in Australia it has also acquired local characteristics.

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT
GARDENERS'.

March 1.— At tin- last fortnightly meeting, Mr. W. Pope
(chairman) read a paper on "Palms, and their Uses for
Decorative Purposes."

Mr. Pope illustrated his remarks with some good specimen
plants, and gave directions for their successful cultivation,
cither from seeds or suckers.

The Hon. Sec. (Mr. H. Coi.f.bv) also read a short paper on
" Plant Defences," showing the various means of defence with
which Nature had furnished certain plants for enabling
tin-ill to protect themselves from enemies or objei-tionablc
visitors,

DEVON AND EXETER GARDENERS'
ASSOCIATION.

March 1. — A paper was read on "Plants for House Deco-
ration," the Essayist being Mr. G. Camp, gardener to E.
Byrom, Esq., of Culver, near Exeter.

To those who have limited space it is essential that the
plants employed for the decoration of dwelling-rooms
should possess longdating qualities, and, in this respect,
Palms are perhaps more useful than any other class.
Livistona chinensis, Chamesrops excelsa, and Thrinax elegans,
are reliable species; Chrysalidocarpus (Areca) lutescens
being of graceful and feathery habit is a valuable decora-
tn •■ plant, and so arc Geonoma gracilis, Cocos Weddelliana and
C. Sexuosa, Kentia Belmoreana, Seaforthia elegans, and
Phoenix rapicola in large specimens are most valuable. Tor
the entrance-hall or the corner of a broad staircase few plants
are more useful than Araucaria excelsa. Among Ferns suit-
able for house decoration were mentioned Asplenium bulbi-
ferum, Pteris erotica and it- crested [forms, and Adiantum
cuneatum, provided they be grown in a low temperature.
Amongst plants with coloured foliage, Pandanus Veitchi,
Ananassa saliva variegata, Acalyphas, and the variegated
form of Ficus elastica, are useful. Some of the Begonias,
such as B. rex, li. metallica, and others ; Galadiums,
Godittums (Crotous), especially those with long, pendulous,
undulating foliage, when carefully grown aud well coloured
are exceedingly useful. But Codiaeums should be changed
more often than Palms, as they slitter most from the dry air
of a drawing-room. Euphorbia pulcherrhua (Poinsettias) are
very effective, but they will not stand draughts, and they
should be accustomed to a lower temperature before being
brought into the house. Two or three- year-old plants of
Peutzia gracilis in flower brighten a room nicely. For fur-
nishing baskets, Galanthe Veitchi, Asparagus plumosus, and
A. Sprengeri, Grevillea robusta, and Cypripedium insigne,
are very effective and cheerful. Amongst Orchid--, the
old Dendrobiuin nobile is the most reliable. Primulas
and Cyclamens are very popular for such purposes,
Azalea mollis and its many varieties are useful in the early
months of the year, and with A. indica and its varieties, yield
a constant supply of ornamental house plants. Among sweet-
smelling plants, Freesias and Lilies of the Valley are to be
recommended. Of trailing plants, Oplismenus Burmanni
(the Panicunu), the ZebriiKis (Tradeseantias), and Cissus
discolor, are very useful. Among bulbous plants, Tulips are
more useful than Hyacinths, the powerful odour of the latter
being objectionable. For table decoration, one of the most
useful materials are sprays of Smilax (asparagoides) ; these
can be used in many ways one of the most effective methods
being to festoon a candelabra with it, and trail along from
one table ornament to another. Small Cordylines (Dracaenas ,
Palms, and Euphorbias are effective on the dinner-table.
Care must be taken that plants placed upon a table will not
obstruct the view the guests should have of each other. If a
long succession of dinner-parties has to be arranged, a
different tone of colour aud arrangement should obtain on
each succeeding night.

ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL.

March 4.— The monthly meeting of the Isle of Wight
Horticultural Improvement Association was held at Newport.

Dr. J. Groves presided over a good attendance of members
who had come from all parts of the Island to hear a paper
read on the " Cultivation of Peaches and Nectarines," by
Mr. W. Tribbick, Brooke House Gardens, an expert in the
cultivation of these fruits. The lecturer dealt exhaustively

with the details of their cultivation, and especially impressed
upon his hearers the mistaken economy of cropping their
Peach borders with Potatos, &c.

The exhibits included a collection of large and well-grown
Cyclamens, staged by Mr. G. J. Cole, BroadUmds, Sandown ;
and a group of flowering and foliage plants from Mr. A. G.
Cave, of Newport Nurseries. In each case a Cerliiicate of
Cultural Merit was awarded. The total number of the
Society is now 320.

PRESTON AND FULWOOD HORTICUL-
TURAL.

March l.~ At a largely attended meeting of this Society,
held on the above date, at the Old Legs of Man Hotel'
Preston, an interesting paper upon " Daffodils," by Mr. P.
Rudolph Bakr was read. A subsequent discussion showed
that the members are desirous of creating a greater interest
in these flowers in Lancashire.

THE SCOTTISH HORTICULTURAL
ASSOCIATION.

March 7.— At a crowded meeting on the above date there
were several interesting exhibits. One of an Acacia, pin.
bably grandis, a fine variety of pulchella, some magnificent
examples of white-flowered Cyclamen giganteum, collections of
fine cut blooms of Camellias of the elegans type, some fine
trusses ol tlit- fragrant hybrid Rhododendron Countess,
shown by Mr. Johnstone, who is very successful in raising
new varieties of these plants ; a three-flowered Richardia
much rarer than double-flowered. An Acacia named cordata'
which was Den to all present, was shown. Mi T.un, the
late president, had seen it in Covent Garden that morning,
had purchased six plants, and placed one of them on the
table. The plant was covered with tiny flowers in long spikes,
and was growing in a 4-inch pot.
_ The paper for the evening was " Garden Peas," by Mr.
N. N. Sherwood, of Messrs. Hurst & Sons, Hounsditc-h,
Lou, Ion, and read some time since before the Royal Horticul-
tural Society, which was noticed in the Gardeners' <
at the time. L). V. F.

[The term "accumulated temperature indicates the aggregate
amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees— a "Day-
degree " signifying 1" continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

Rainfall.

b

**

r-
■1

-

O £>

as

Accumulated.

m a z

,- - T

'■° g-
«s „-8
"te Us I

Day-
deg.

Day-
deg.

0

3 +

14

26

1

2 +

IS

3li

2

1 +

10

33

3

1 -

IS

50

4

2 __

18

54

6

1 -

20

46

e

1 +

15

25

7

Oarer

13

30

8

2 _

19

37

9

1 +

25

15

10

1 +

33

16

*

1 -

34

13

Day-

+ 103

+ 171

±?

Q •

si's b\ +

Day-
deg.

- 14

- 98

- 165

- 115

- 164

- 35

- 96

- 102

- 30

- 30

- 64

- z

±8

o

a

lOths
Inch.

1 -

5 -

4 -

5 -

4 -

6 -

5 -

6 -
5 -

Brioht

Sun.

Ins.
9-0
5 9
3-6
3-6
6-2
5-4
9-5
7-1

11-2
6-6

111-4
7-4

ffg

B.S

ot en

o 9

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, dc, Districts — 6, Scotland, W. ;
7, England, N.W. ; 8, England, S.W. ; B, Ireland, N. ;
10, Ireland, S. j • Channel Islands,

160

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 11, 1899.

©bituar\>.

Sudden Death of a Gardener.— Mr. C.J.
R0WE, who lias for fourteen years held the position
of head gardener to Mr. W. H. Scott, of Nunfield,
Dumfries, died on Sunday morning after a very brief
illness. He had complained of a cold on Wednes-
day, and this appears to have developed into
influenza, complicated by bronchitis. Deceased,
who belonged to Exeter, was a man of good
attainments in his profession, and of a kindly
nature. He held the office of Senior Warden in the
Dumfries Kilwinning Lodge of Freemasons. He
is survived by a widow and a son and daughter,
the former of whom is serving his apprenticeship as
a gardener. The funeral takes place to-day
(Saturday).

Mr. F. HOWCROFT.— We regret to hear of the
deatli of this gentleman. The business at 10-11,
Floral Street, Coveut Garden, will be carried on as
usual under the style of Howcroft & Watkins.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Otto Fr'Ebel, Zurich— Plants for Indoors Decoration, Hardy
Perennials, Alpines, Bulbs ami Tubers, Ornamental Trees
and Shrubs, Conifers, Roses, Climbers, aiwl Fruit Trees.

Thomas Kennedy & Cu., High Street, Dumfries— Farm Seeds.

Clmfm
to-
Lormporidcnk

A Climber for a House with a Minimum Tem-
perature of 60' ; In Doubt. You may select
any of the following plants, viz., PassiHora quad-
rangularis, P. Buonapartea, Ipomcea Leari, I.
Horsfallife, Bomarea Carderi, B. conferta, Bou-
gainvillea speciosa, or (iloriosa Plauti. Most of
these only succeed satisfactorily when plauted
in suitable borders, Bomareas and Gloriosas
excepted.

A Greenhouse containing a Nectarine in

BLOOM, A Fici AND AN APRJCOT TREE, VlNES,
Poses, AND VARIOUS Plants: A. L. V. The
house being a cool one, the plants must be
allowed to make very gradual progress. The
Vines, fruit trees, and Ptoses may be lightly
syringed night and morning, or in the morning
only if the weather is frosty. The temperature
may range from 45° at night to 60° by day,
affording air in moderation in fine weather, and
shutting the ventilators about four o'clock. Do
not wet the trees or Viues when in bloom, neither
should you aim at keeping the air very dry— it is
unnatural, and therefore injurious. If red spider
appear on any of the plauts, sponge the leaves
with soapy water, and apply clear water from a
syringe to the under sides of the leaves. Clay's
manure would benefit any of the plants that are
in active growth. It may be applied three or
four times, at tri-weekly intervals.
Books : Korbiton. No modern work on the subject,
as has been stated scores of times of late years in
the Gardeners' Chronicle. — Fruit Growers' Guide.
This is a useful, modern publication, and you
may ascertain its place of publication by writing
to the author at S, Rosehill Road, Wandsworth,
S.W.
Cai.i.a with White Leaf : D. JV. 31. We get

many such specimens.
Double-flowered Gorse : E. Peden. Short
cuttings of young wood, taken off with a heel,
strike freely iu sandy soil, under a handlight,
placed on a half-shady border,^ taken in August
aud September.
Grafting Orange Trees : Harbinger. The opera-
tion may be performed in .Inly with nearly ripe
wood of the current season, the stocks being
placed in a double frame, that is, a frame within
a frame, or in an unheated close propagating-case.
Tongue grafting, or, in the case of very stout
stocks, whip, or even cleft grafting, may be em-
ployed. The grafts must be furnished with
leaves, which should be reduced in size one half ;
and they should consist of the firmer butt-ends
of the shoots. The stocks must be carefully
shaded from bright sunshine, and kept mode-

rately moist, but being iu a close atmosphere root
watering will not be much required. When the
grafts have taken, remove them to a less close
frame, affording more and more air gradually.
The stocks should have all weakly growths re-
moved, and the main shoots shortened severely
previous to grafting.

Green Leaves: Trood, Lamoureux .(• Co. Ira-
possible to name with certainty from the material
sent.

Lawn Tennis Court and Bowling Green : /.'. P.
The base line aud small Courts at each end of the
Court are iu width 27 and iu length 18 feet. The
space on each side of the net measures 21 feet,
width as before, i.e., 27 feet. The total length
of the Court is therefore IS by 21 by 21 by IS feet.
A Court for a four-handed game lias a space on
eacli side of the net of 42 feet ; and there are side
Courts, having a width of 4i feet, running the
entire length of the Court, but not carried rouud
the ends. A Bowding Green may measure 40 to
60 feet square, i.e., it may contain 1,600 — 3,600
square feet.

Marechal Niel Rose : J. Kettle. The bloom is
certainly of a deeper tint than usual in this
variety. You might take buds from the shoot
and by inserting them upon different stocks deter-
mine whether or not the variation may be made
constant.

Misleto Germination : P. F. The thrushes and
blackbirds disengage the sticky seeds from their
beaks by rubbing them against the bark, to which
the seeds become attached. The seeds which
germinate in the spring develop a sort of sucker,
from whose centre a line root appears, which
pierces the tissues of the cortex. All that you
have to do is to stick the seeds on the moist, i.e.,
the under side of a branch of an Apple, Poplar,
Maple tree, &c, aud wait patiently.

Names of Fruits: Strdtford-on-Avon. 1, probably
Blenheim Orange, but much bruised ; 2, not
known — certainly not Pibston ; 3, one fruit is
Mabbot's Pearmain, others same as No. 2. —
ll.nHi & Son. Xot known, some local variety.

Names of Plants : Corfespondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so r/ood as to consult
the following number.— A. 31. Schomburgkia
crispa.— If. crispum. The Odontoglossum seems
to be a very bad form of O. crispum. -Mackenzit .
Lygodium scandens — a Fern. — Querist. Ophio-
pogon Jaburan variegatum ; 2, Casuarina
stricta; 3, Vanda tricolor.— G. T. li. 1, Crypto-
meria japonica : 2, one of the evergreen Oaks ;
3, Pinus, we do not recognise the species ; 4, Picea
Morinda : 5, a Cedar, we canuot tell which one ;
6, Abies cephalonica ; 7, Thuya plicata, gigantea
of gardens ; S, Sequoia sempervirens, Red wood ;
9, Viburnum Tiuus, Laurustine ; 10, Primus
Lauro - cerasus, Cherry - Laurel ; 11, Sequoia
gigantea (Wellington!*).; 12, Abies nobilis.—
H. J. fi., Florence. The Dendrobium flower that
you send has some of the characters of D. x
Aiusworthi ; but D. nobile itself is so variable,
that this can only be regarded as a variety of it.
D. x Rolfeie and its varieties have appeared iu
importations of D. nobile, resulting from the
inter-crossing of D. primulinum and D. nobile,
but in these the colour iu the lip is partially
suppressed. Iu yours the disc is that of D. nobile.
—A. F. Dendrobium aureum ; | 2, Dendrobium
Boxalli ; 3, Dendrobium Wardianum ; 4, Dendro-
bium nobile ; 5, Phaius x hybridus, a cross
between P. grandifolius and P. Wallichi.—
//. If. W. 1, Alternanthera amo.ua ; 2, Alter -
nauthera spatulata ; 3, Alternanthera parouy-
chioides major ; 4, Alternanthera parouy-
chioides ; 5, Sedum carneum variegatum ; 6,
Pelargonium "Little Trot"; 7, Saxifraga hyp-
noides ; S, Sedum glaucum.— W. T. Nos. 1 aud
2 are both varieties of Odontoglossum x Ander-
soniauum, which frequently appear among O.
crispum, and results from the intercrossing of
that species with O. gloriosum: 3 is a good
Odontoglossum triumphaus. — Veritas. Cymbi-
dium eusifolium has the reputation of being an
irregular flowerer. Its llowers usually appear in
the end of the summer.— L. T. The Ccelogyne
cristata seems to be of the form known as ' ' Chats-
worth variety."— C. A. B. Next week.
Osier on Sewage-Farm Land : B. H. We would
caution you against planting on land that is
always saturated with moisture, a3 then the
crop of Osiers rarely comes to perfection. The

trade name "Osiers" means the soft-wooded
varieties, mostly of Salix viminalis, the common
white Osiers, which are preferred by basket-
makers. The following are also good basket
willows : — S. purpurea, S. helix, or Rose Willow ;
and others. A small manual containing much
valuable matter on The Cultivation of tin Willow
or Osier, by Mr. William Scaling, was published
in 1868 by the firms of W. Kent & Co., Pater-
noster Row ; and Allen & Co., Caxton House,
Long Row, Nottingham.

Palms: W. Brown, We cau not say definitely what
has killed the plants. The portions of leaves sent
appear to have been injured by gas, sulphur, or
some such injurious agency, but this wo. .hi hardly
have killed the roots. Exactly these conditions
would result if, through inadvertence, the plants
were not supplied with the necessary moisture at
the roots.

Patent : C. W. D. Write to the Comptroller-
General, C. N. Dalton, C.B., or to Chief Examiner
Henry Hatfield, Patent Office, 25, Southampton
Buildings, W.C. You must thoroughly describe
the nature of your patent, and they will then in-
form you if anything identical has been already
patented by anyone.

Peaches Dropping : E. 31. B. This misfortune is
due, in most cases, to an overabundant set of
fruit, or to dryness at the root. It may also
occur from a low temperature, or a check
caused in some other manner. If it is due to
over-abundance, a few timely thinnings may stop
wholesale dropping, and if the soil is found to be
dry below the surface, afford a thorough applica-
tion of water.

Richardias : JF. I). The double spathes are due
solely to excessive vigour, brought about by
manure in the soil, and probably by a pretty
constant selection of the best and strongest-
budded portions of the tuberous roots. It might
in time, by seediiig or selection, become fairly
constant.

Vine LAYERING.: A. B. C. The layering may bo
done at any season during active growth, the
rooting process taking place freely and in a com-
paratively short time. As the Vine can seldom
be moved with a good root mass, the layering
should be performed in a basket, which will
admit of the whole mass of roots and soil being
removed intact. There is no necessity to remove
the basket when planting. Pots may be used,
but the roots form a mat at the sides, aud must
be disentangled in planting, and this causes a
check.

Violets Damping off : W. W. The plauts sent
seem to have " fogged off" from an attack of the
species of fungus which is a common cause of damp-
ing iu seedlings, &c. We think that in future you
should dress your Violet plauts occasionally with
sulphide of potassium, halfoz. to one gallou of rain-
water, not waiting till the fungus appears before
affording it. The frame should be placed, not
directly on the soil, but on a wall of loose bricks
li feet high, the enclosed space being filled up with
such hard material as brickbats, gravel, and the
like, finishing off with fiue gravel ; and over this
may be placed half-spent hotbed materials or
tree leaves, not for affording heat, but to raise
the bed of soil that will be placed on them to
about 6 inches from the glass. By this means
good drainage will be secured, aud the air will
permeate the bed from below as well as from
above. No heat should be used, and thick
linings of bracken or exhausted duug-bed materials
be packed tightly round the frames, and rather
higher than the sides. Air should be afforded
the frames wheuever the sun shines, excepting
after three o'clock in the winter months. Lack
of air always favours damping off.

COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED.— H. II. D'Q.— G. M.— ACOITl.—

E. I). S. Wild Rose.— C. T. V.— H. W. W.— Expert.—
C. W. II — S. A.-W. A. C— C. E. F. A.— A. C. F.— L. J. C.
—A. J. L— E. B.

Important to Advertisers. -?''«■ RtJKAer »a»

the satisfaction of announcing that the circulation oj tat
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle " circulat,

Country Gentlemen, ani» all Classes of Gaum si i
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and (hat U is
preserved for reference in all the 2>rincipal Libraries.

{For Markets, see p. xiii.)

Mahoh 18, 1S99.]

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

161

THE

(Sardeners' ^hrxinirte

No. 638.— SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 1890.

ORCHARD CULTIVATION.

A SUBJECT of the utmost importance to
-^■*- fruit-growers is dealt with in Bull tin
No. 52, issued by the University of Illinois,
Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbima, last
year. The report briefly describes some experi-
ments undertaken with the object of ascertain-
ing the relative progress of Apple-trees in
cultivated land, and in that occupied by various
crops. Some interesting facta have resulted,
but we cannot help wishing that the experiments
had been carried still further, and that more
details had been given in the report under
consideration. It is so rarely that we can accord
anything but commendation to the admirable

r ids issued from the American Experimental

Station, that we regret to notice several defects
which might easily have been remedied, and
which detract from what would otherwise have
proved a most valuable production.

It seems from the introduction that the
peculiarities resulting from neglect, too often
painfully apparent in British orchards, a e
similarly predominant in Illinois, for the report
says, "Throughout large sections may be found
the rotting remnants of once extensive
orchards, representing large original expendi-
ture of both labour and money." It is
further remarked that on investigation the
"true reason" for this is found to be "lack of
sufficient, or the entire absence of proper cul-
tivation and care." This is a serious indict-
ment, but there is little doubt it is founded on
fact, and the same charge might be brought
against many orchard owners on this side of
the Atlantic. As is usual in other cases, failure
is attributed to many causes except the right
one, the unsuitability of the soil is urged occa-
sionally, whereas examples of success can be
shown in the same district, and under precisely
similar conditions, save in the matter of atten-
tion. The Report proceeds to state that the
most commonly assumed cause of failure is
winter pest, yet ''it is found that orchard
injuries and exceptionally severe winters do
not coincide," and the real cause is more fre-
quently directly traceable to summer drought.
There is, no doubt, a good deal of truth in this,
and British cultivators have occasionally had
ill results in hardy fruit plantations or orchards
from the same influence, though not so frequently
as in the United States. It is correctly said that
"a scanty supply of water tends to check growth.
to ripen that already gained, and then to termi-
nate, in effect, the season's period of develop-
ment. Subsequent spring-like influences cause
a second development of activity, and more or
less resumption of growth late in the year. The
tree now goes into winter in poor condition to
withstand even the ordinary vicissitudes of the
season. It sutlers not so much because of
severe climatic influences as because of its own
abnormal, if not enfeebled, condition."

One of the leading objects of the American
cultivator is, therefore, rightly held to be the
preservation of soil-moisture during the spring

and summer, and this is just as applicable here
in its principle as it is there. Frequent surface
cultivation is recommended to form a "dust-
mulch," to prevent the escape of water from
the soil, and every word of this we could
confirm and enforce by examples from our own
experience.

The special objects of the experiments under-
taken and treated in this report, were to
demonstrate the beneficial effects of clean cul-
tivation upon fruit-trees in comparison with
others grown on similar land occupied with
various crops, or in a partial state of neglect.
The experiments were commenced in 1887-88,
but not systematically, and little more was
done than sufficed to show that "the effect of
cultivation was to conserve the soil moisture."
The work thus commenced was extended in a
more systematic way in 1890, when six rows of
Apple-trees, i.e., three of Ben Davis and three
of Grimes' Golden were planted, and the
plantation was then divided into five plots. It
is not definitely stated how many trees there
were in each plot, but it appears from the
tabulated results that there were twenty-four in
each, except in the plot devoted to grass, where
there were half that number. The trees were
planted 15 feet apart, and, judging by the
illustrations, were low standards ; but no in-
formation is given as to their age at the time of
planting, nor with regard to the stocks upon
which they are worked. The five plots were
treated in the following way : — No. 1 was clean
cultivated, No. :_' was cropped with Oats. No. .".
with " corn " (Maize), No. 4 with Clover, and
No. 5 with " Blue-grass." According to the

report, " this .system of cropping and cultivation
has been since continued," so that the trees had
been treated in the same manner for eight years
when the record was taken, yet not a Word is
said about the "fruit," though details tire
given respecting the growth, which are of great
interest, though unfortunately they do not deal
with the whole of the trees, but only one row
of each variety, or four trees in each plot, except
in the grass where only two have been measured.
The averages are not, therefore, strictly com-
parable, but, notwithstanding this defect,
there is such a marked increase of growth
in favour of the trees in cultivated clean land,
that the figures are reproduced in the following
table :—

-\\ i rage Measurements of oke row m Aw-li Ben Davis,

Diameter "1 trunk.

At surface

..| -Mil.

At 1 foot.

H«gh.. "sgr

Cultivation

In.

In.
16H

Ft.

's

In.

Ft. In.
15 4

Oats

18H

Hi

is

0

IS 6

Corn

203

W

IS

H

14 4 J

Clover

raj

L6|

17

'■■:

13 10!

Grass

'.i.

g 1

11

0

v 0

Average Measi resients of one row m Apple

Grimes' Golden.

Cultivation

123

101

14 11

10 03

Oats

'.'

s

11 10J

r 7

Com

l-.:.l

14 0

10 ri

Clover

10i

9J

12 11

S 11J

Glass

8i

T;;

11 3

7 6

As indicating the dangers attending averages
derived from a small number of individuals, it
may be mentioned, however, that one tree of
Grimes' Golden in the cultivation plot, shows a-
foot less in the diameter of the top (or spread of the
branches) than one of the two trees of the same
variety in the grass plot taken for the average ;

namely, the former measured 8 feet G inches in
diameter, and the latter 9 feet 6 inches. Still,
regarding the results generally, both as shown
in the tables and in the illustrations which
accompany them, there is a striking difference
between the development of the trees in the
cultivated plots, and in these under crops.

It is remarkable that the Clover plot should
shi iw so low an average, as assuming that this
crop has enriched the soil in nitrogen, it is
evident this has not been sufficient to counter-
act the ill-effects of moisture exhaustion. The
trees in the Corn-plot show a high average, but
this is attributed, by the recorders, to the fact
that the trees being so near to each other
(lo feet- apart) had shaded the spaces between,
and prevented the Corn attaining half its usual
size.

The effects upon the root system of the trees
are reviewed, from which it appears that the
cultivation rendered the roots more compact,
and forced them deeper into the soil, the
advantage of the latter being obvious in some
light soils and dry climates, though in others it
might be disastrous. One tree in each plot was
also cut down, and the five being depicted in
one illustration the differences are very striking
as regards the size of Ihe stems.

The soil was examined in the autumn of 1897,
uith a view to testing the amount of moisture
present in the different plots, and as the result
of repeated trials dealing with the first 27 inches
of the depth, the average percentage of moisture
«:s found to be as follows :— Clean cultivated,
1- p.r cent. ; Corn, 8; Clover, 10; Oats, 8;
and Grass, 8. These percentages are all low,
owing to the very dry season experienced, but
it is pointed out that as "the moisture must
d 10 per cent, to make it available to the
plant to any extent,'' the cultivated plot, even
m this, shows a marked advantage as compared
with the Grass-plot.

In England, the experiments at the Wobum
Fruit Farm have fully demonstrated the inju-
rious effects of grass growing round either
dwarf or standard trees in their early years,
growth, foliage, and fruit sharing in the evil
results, but how far this is due to the exhaustion
of soil-moisture or food constituents, has yet to
be determined. It will probably be found that
the loss of moisture is literally at the root of
the evil. Observi r.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

CATTLEYA LUDDEMANNIANA.

OF all the forms of Cattleya labiata, this fine
Venezuelan type, which is more commonly known
in gardens as C. speciosissima, is one of the largest,
most variable, and also the most beautiful, though
unfortunately many who succeed in flowering the
other forms, fail to get good results with this one,
and hence it has a, perhaps, not undeserved
character for uncertainty of flowering.

Some cultivators, and especially those who
reside in sunny districts, flower it regularly, and
one who is very successful is Mr. Joseph Broome,
of Sunny Hill, Llandudno. Each year with fiue
examples of Cattleya Trianaei, or C. labiata, comes
ooe or two examples of this fine Cattleya, which
appears all the more striking in that they are
less often seen than the others.

Together with some very handsome forms of
Cattleya Triamei, Mr. Broome sends a noble flower
of C. Luddemanniaua, of fiue proportions ; the
sepals aud petals bright rosy lilac, the lip veined
with purple on a lighter ground, the broad, crimped
front portion of rich velvety orims on-purple. Some

*#

162

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March IS, 1899.

good examples of Oattleya bicolor, Ccelogyne cristata
alba, C. c. Lemoniana Dendrobium Brymerianum,
aad other showy things, testify to the good cultiva-
tion given to the plants at Sunny Hill.

The Rosary.

THE ROSE GARDEN IN MARCH.

By Rose garden, I mean those gardens which
have a space larger or smaller, as the case may be,
especially devoted to the culture of Roses, and I
leave out of view all the gardens of professional
growers and those of amateurs who cultivate so
large a quantity of plants as to bring them almost
on a level with professionals, and who require no
instruction, but are much more capable of giving
it ; but I rather write for the smaller amateurs,
who are always glad to receive any scrap of
information.

Amateurs' Gardens. — These gardens may be
divided into two sections, those in which Roses
are grown for exhibition, and those in which
Roses are grown for the personal gratification of
the owner. These will at this season present a
very differeut appearance ; in the case of the former
the beds will be covered with a thick coat of farm-
yard manure, which the grower is anxious to leave
on, not merely for protection, but in order that
the plants may derive all the nutriment possible
from it. I need hardly say this does not improve
the appearance of the beds, however useful it may
be. But the grower who has only his own grati-
fications in view, and who dislikes to see untidy
beds, will remove all the long, strawy portions, and
fork-in all the short manure, and will generally
make his bed neat and clean. In forking-in, care
must be taken not to disturb the roots.

Pruning. — This needful operation will now, of
course, be much in the mind of the grower, and it
is astonishing, considering all that has been written
on this subject, and the number of questions that
have been asked and answered, that so much iguo-
r-ance should still prevail on the subject. An ama-
teur would never entrust this operation to the
gardener unless he is one whom he has specially
trained for it, and upon whose carefulness aud
intelligence he may thoroughly rely ; for a man
may understand all about Vines, stove plants, &c,
yet put him into a Rose-garden, it is certain that
he will make a muddle of it. He has learned that
hard-pruning is necessary, and so he treats all
alike, whether they are strong or weak growers ;
whereas an amateur usually kuows that the hard
pruning applies to the weaker growers, aud if he
applies it to the stronger ones, he will get plenty
of shoots, but few flowers. After such a season as we
have just gone through, where in this south-eastern
part of England we have had neither frost nor
snow of any consequence, the grower may be
tempted, when he sees the extremities of his Rose-
shoots covered with foliage, to think it is time for
him to apply the knife ; he will be unquestionably
wrong if he does so, because I do not think any-
thing should be done to encourage a too early start
of the buds towards the base of the shoot, on which
he will rely for his blooms in the coming season.
If the shoots are left long, there may be growth at
the extremity which will absorb the sap, and so
prevent the lower buds from swelling.

After a mild winter such as we have just experi-
enced, the temptation to prune early will be all the
greater, but it is best to wait till the usual date, i.e.,
the end of the present mouth ; and, indeed, there is
some truth in the contention of your correspondent
last week, that seeing the change which seems to
have taken place in the past few years in our
springs ['?], it might not be advisable to postpone the
operation of pruning until the early part of next
month. We generally experience towards May 20
a severe turn of frost, aud if we could so retard
the young shoots as to save them from this, it would
doubtless be a great gain for our Roses, although
the shoots may not be seriously injured ; yet,

without doubt, a sharp frost cripples the buds,
and so She first growths are comparatively useless.
There are some varieties which are uniformly
vigorous in all situations, but I have heard great
difference of opinion amongst rosariaus in differeut
localities concerning the same Rose ; for instance,
Etienne Levet is considered to be a most vigorous
grower, but I have never found it so, and I there-
fore think that the amateur will be well advised
were he to consider not what the character of the
Rose may generally be, but what he has found it,
and if his plant is weakly to prune it hard, and if
strong to spare the knife. Two or three buds may
be left ou shoots of the weaker, and half-a-dozen
on the stronger growers.

Pruning oj Climbers.— There have lately been
introduced a number of Roses more or less of the
rampant character, and which go under the name of
climbing Roses, though they do not climb ; to
treat these as one would treat the dwarfs or
standards would be most injurious. Take,
for instance, Turner's Crimson Rambler ; how
often it has been said to me, "I think
Crimson Rambler is altogether a mistake. I
have had it for two or three years, but I
cannot find any buds on it." "But how have
you treated it U " is my questiou ; "especially in
the matter of pruning?" "Oh, I cut it pretty
hard, or else it would be all over the place." Yes,
and you have done exactly what will eventually
prevent its blooming. Youngshoots if strongought to
be left alone, and the old ones thinned out, in order
to make space for the younger ; if this is done,
you will be pretty sure to have a quantity of bloom.
The same rule holds good with Kgard to our ram-
pant Noisettes, aud to all the varieties of the Gloire
de Dijou section, which should have all the old
wood removed, aud space left for the development
of the new shoots. Some of this section, like
Madame Berard, Gloire de Dijon, Madame Trifle,
and others, make long, lanky shoots, aud are bare
of foliage for a long distance : while others, such as
Bouquet d'Or and Rfve d'Or, are beautifully
covered with foliage all the way up. I know uo
Rose so well adapted for covering the wall of
a house as the latter, it- beautiful foliage and
brilliant yellow flowers always impressing those who
see it in this condition for the first time with a
sense of its great beauty. Some of the Polyantha
Roses, such as Polyantha simplex, may, on the
other hand, be left to wander at their "own sweet
will." I had one of these planted in my own
garden, aud it was certaiuly a very pretty sight
when iu full bloom ; but it grew large and absorbed
so much space that I was obliged, to my great
regret, to root it up.

Such are a few general remarks on the condition
of, aud seasonable work in, our Rose gardens at
this seasou. Those who waut more precise direc-
tions should consult Mr. W. F. Cooling's observa-
tions at the Rose Conference at Halifax last year,
published by the National Rose Society, in which,
I believe, he will fiud all the information necessary
on the^subject of pruning. Wild Ros< .

arket Gardening.

VEGETABLE CULTURE.

Well-grown vegetables, whether the product of
garden or field, always command a ready sale iu
the neighbourhood of cities and large commercial
towns and seaside resorts, whither the produce can
be taken in the growers' own vans at a small cost.
A light rather than heavy soil of fair depth is
capable of producing all kinds of vegetables of first-
rate quality under good cultivation. A good
coating of short manure should be laid on the
ground, aud the latter double ploughed, in order to
provide proper depth for the several crops, especially
root crops, such as Parsnips, Carrots, and Beet, to
push their roots into iu search of food and moisture,
as well as in the process of root-development, depth
of soil being absolutely necessary in this respect, in

order to secure good specimens of the root-crops
indicated above. Assuming that the grouud has
already beeu manured and ploughed in the niauner
described, it should be harrowed, and, if lumpy,
rolled, and again harrowed as soon as the con-
dition of the weather and ground will permit of the
work being done without the soil adhering much
to one's boots, and the crops put in forthwith.
Parsnips, Carrots, and Onious should be sown as
early iu February as the state of the ground will
ermit of the necessary preparations and work
being performed.

Parsnips, Carrots, aud Onions may be drilled-in
iu drills 1 foot apart, the soil being afterwards
closed in over the seeds with a light roller. Ouly
seeds of the best quality should be used, sowing
seeds of Parsnips and Carrots more thinly than the
Onions, seeing that the latter can be drawn young
for saladmg — that is, the thiuniugs can be used for
salading purposes, being tied up in small bundles
while being thinned, for marketing. Should soot
be available to strew over the grouud iu sufficient
quantity to discolour it immediately after drilling-
in the seed, especially in the case of ground cropped
with Onions, it will teud to preserve the roots from
the attacks of the Ouiou-maggot aud wireworm,
creatures which iu some soils are very destructive
to root crops. The Ouion-plants may be left at
from 2 to 3 inches apart in the row in thinning,
allowing about 9 inches from plant to plant in the
case of Carrots of the Long Surrey type, and
Parsnips. At this distance, the yield of one acre
would be 4S40 roots, which beiug of average quality
would, according to current wholesale prices, realise
from iid. to dd. per dozen for Parsnips, giviug a
sum total of from £121 to £181 10s. per acre.
While the same area cropped with Onions would
yield from 10 to 12 tons of bulbs, which, at the
current wholesale prices of 6*. (id. to 7". per cwt. ,
being respectively £65 and C70 for 10 tuns per
acre, £78 and £84 beiug realised for the heavier
crop of ripe bulbs; these returns being in addition
to those secured by the marketing of the thinnings
dining the early summer mouths. Thus, it will be
seeu that after all expenses involved in producing
and marketing the several crops, including rent of
and, have been deducted, a good balance will
remain on the right side.

After the young plants have come through the
soil, the latter should be stirred between 1 and
2 inches deep within as many months, not only
with a view to destroy weeds (which are sine to
appear), but also to stimulate growth iu the plants.

Peas ate also a paying crop. Good, dwarf-
growing, early varieties, and prodigious bearers,
such, for instance, as Carter's Lightning, should be
sown early in ground prepared as described above,
drilling iu the seed iu drills about '2!i feet asunder.
//. W. Ward, Jx'a,i/ci<jh.

THE EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS.

As a good deal has recently been written ou this
tree, perhaps I may be permitted to record my
little experience regarding the same. When at
Luckuow, I used to receive seeds of various kinds
of Eucalyptus from the late Baron von Mueller. Of
course, the E. Globulus was among them. I raised
several plants of the latter, and planted a row of
them. They made rapid progress, and iu a few
years gained the height of between 20 and 30 feet,
with a thick stem in proportion.

I began to be proud of having introduced this
wonderful tree, which then had the reputation of
draining marshes. Well, one mousoon came with
torrential rains, aud every one of my beautiful E.
Globulus died from too much water at the roots,
and au atmosphere saturated with moisture. I
began then to be sceptical about the supposed
properties of this fast-growing tree of draining
marshy land.

The ouly variety which I succeeded in growing
was the E. citriodora, which, when it sheds its
bark, leaves the stem as white as snow. It flowered
and seeded ; but I do not know what the result was
after I left.

March IS, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

163

On another occasion I landed at Naples from
Bombay in January. It was snowing, and the
pools round the fountains were hard frozen — a very
unusual occurrence in that latitude. On my way
from Naples to Rome I saw a number of large
Eucalyptus-trees— presumably E. Globulus — killed
by frost.

The only place in India where I saw the Euca-
lyptus Globulus thrive was on the Nilgherry Hills
at Ootacamund. The frost there is very slight, and
occurs only on the highest ridges : and the drainage
on the hill slopes is very good. It was a beautiful
sight to see a hillside covered with the youug blue

go round and drop Eucalyptus-oil on the blotting-
pad of each clerk, and my friend asserts that not
one of those clerks got influenza. They were all
the time inhaling an atmosphere containing the
essential oil of Eucalyptus. Such a thing, it
would seem, might easily be verified. I am not
aware, however, that any scientific investigation
lias ever been made of the properties of this oil.
When a new drug is introduced, the sellers of it
exaggerate its curative properties to such an
extent that it soon falls into discredit and neglect.
There are few tiling- in Nature that have not some

REV. GEORGE It. ENGLEHEART,
A Vice-Chairinan of Hie Narcissus Committee of the Royal Horticultural 3 ■
(S'-.- p. 168.)

trees. The only use they make of the tree there is
for firewood. As to the Eucalyptus-oil, a lady in
London told me that when she caught a cold, she
rubbed a little of this oil round her mouth and nose,
and the cold was scared away. I thought 1 would
try this wonderful oil the first time I caught a cold.
I had not long to wait : and one night I rubbed
some as directed, and got into bed. In a very
short time my face felt as if it were on fire. I had
to jump out of bed and put my face in a basin of
cold water, when I got some peace !

A friend of scientific culture assures me that in
the City there is an insurance company who
employ a large uumber of clerks. During an
epidemic of influenza, the porter was instructed to

The history of the metal "thorium" is a lesson.
It was very rare, and was thought to be very
useless. Now, however, as Thoria, it is used every-
where for incandescent lights. The demand for
this metal caused geologists and chemists to search
for it, and it was found that, after all, it was not
so very rare. When a thing is pronounced useless,
it means that no use for it has yet been discovered.

In an article in the Gardi n< r,s' Chronicle on
" Rome," it was stated that the Trappists near
Rome can now live where, before they planted
Eucalypti, they could not live. In the National
Review for February, 1S99, in an article ou the
"Rule of the Chartered Company," by H. C.
Thomson, p. 901, this is stated: — "Look at Tas-

mania . . . with a glorious climate, in which it is
difficult to feel ill, with Eucalyptus forests in which
fever cannot exist," &c. Now is all this true, or is
it mere hearsay ? If Tasmania has such a glorious
climate, why should the nou-existence of fever be
attributed to Eucalyptus forests ?

Theu iu the Standard of February 14, 1S99, it is
stated that " Influenza has made its appearance
again . . . and alike in church and on 'Change the
odour of Eucalyptus is significantly perceptible."

Rightly or wrongly, many people evidently
believe iu the property of Eucalyptus oil of staving
off influenza. Investigators of the future will have
to find out what is true aud what is not true, not
only in this, but in many other things. In a
butcher's shop I saw a miserable-looking plant of
B. Globulus in a pot. I asked why he kept it
there? He said, " It keeps away flies." I thought
I would try the experiment iu my room, where
flies abound in summer. I cut some branches off a
blur Gum-tree I have, and placed them in a jug of
water on the mantelpiece. Lo and behold, that
very same evening there was a fly on the wall a few-
inches above the Eucalyptus leaves, and I have
been told that Hies have been seen to actually settle
on its leaves ! E. Bonavia, M.D.

REV. GEORGE H. ENGLEHEART.

We have pleasure in affording our readers an
excellent presentment of the Rev. G. H. Engleheart,
rector of Appleshaw, Andover, a Vice-Chairman of
the Narcissus Committee of the Royal Horticultural
Society, and well known among horticulturists as
tin- raiser of a number of mostly beautiful varieties
of Narcissus. .Mr. Engleheart has been engaged in
the delightful occupation of raising new varieties of
Narcissus from seed for several years, as a reference
tooui reports of the Royal Horticultural Society
will show. Last year his stand of new seedlings
at the R. H. S. meeting on April 12, was the centre
of attraction in the Hall, the beauty of form aud
colour which, displaying in many instances a wide
departure from all known varieties, and appealing
to the tastes of almost every bsholder.

The habitue's of the Drill Hall have doubtless a
similar if different display in store for them this
season.

Mr. Eugleheart's experiments are conducted on
scientific lines, but withal a practical aim. He
has repeated and con firmed many of Dean Herbert's
experiments, and has greatly extended the work of
that famous physiologist and cultivator.

Forestry.

— • —
THE HOME NURSERY.
(< 'oniiiiued from i>. 102.)
Tiif. raising of ordinary forest trees on a large
scale in the home nursery is most advantageous in
the case of a species which is particularly well
adapted to the locality, and which not only pro.
duces seed in large quantities but also develops
rapidly during the seedling stage. Heavy soil, aid
situation, if taken together, will be found suited
to some particular species better than any other,
and if this suitability can be discovered accidentally
or by experiment, it is a pity not to take advantage
of it. Well-grown seedlings are always saleable if
more are grown than are required for home use,
aud nurserymen are usually only too glad to get
hold of a lot at a low rate, or in exchange for other
plants. Oak, Ash, Beech, Birch, Scotch Fir, tec,
are easily raised in soil adapted to their respective
requirements, and as such species as these seed
freely where they are thoroughly at home, the
expense of collecting and sowing is all that has to
be reckoned with. The chief difficulty in some
soils and situations lies in keeping the grouud clear
of annual weeds, especially when near a wood or
waste ground, and with coniferous seed clear
ground is of the first importance. With large
seeds, sowing in rows usually enables hoeing to be
effectively carried on.

164

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 18, 1899.

The most useful function of the home nursery,
however, consists in the raising or, rather, growing
on to a fairly -large size those ornamental trees
anil shrubs which are chieHy used for immediate
effect, or which are too expensive to risk planting
out in small sizes. Such plants are constantly
required on an estate of any size, and the advantage
of having them close at haud, and being able to lift
and re-plant them on one and the same day if
necessary go a long way towards ensuring success.
Large plants are not only very expensive to pur-
chase, but their removal is attended with consider -
able risk if unlooked-for delay or unfavourable
weather intervene during the transfer from the old
to the new quarters. Removed in a careful way
from the home nursery, and during favourable
weather for the work, few failures occur, and that
severe strain upon the vitality of the plant, which
usually accompanies transplanting, is avoided to a
great extent. On this score alone, the home nur-
sery justifies its existence, in spite of the fact that
the cost of repeated transplanting may make the
home-grown plants as expensive at the time of
planting-out as purchased ones. The better results
obtained from the use of the former will always
give them the advantage when the final reckoning
arrives, and this advantage increases with the size
of the plants used.

A great deal of discretion is required in stocking
a home nursery, both as regards number and
variety. If used chiefly for the purpose we have
indicated, it will probably be under rather than
over-stocked, for there is usually a good demand
for ornamental stuff amongst farm and cottage
tenants, who want plants ou the spur of the
moment, and who are not exacting as to the species.
As to variety, this should be determined to some
extent both by the soil of the nursery and that
prevailing on the estate, as those trees and shrubs
which thrive best in the locality should be most in
evidence. As a general rule, the nursery should
be situated on the prevailing soil of the estate, but
this may not always be couvenient or practicable,
and the stock may have to be modified accordingly.
The immense variety found within the boundaries
of any public nursery demonstrates the possibility
of growiug most plants on any kind of soil, but in
such cases the necessity of meeting many and
varied calls upon its resources accounts for this,
and it does not follow that the question of soil can
be iguored. If a piece of ground can be selected
which contains both light and heavy soils, or a
happy mean between the two, so much the better,
and so much the greater latitude is offered in
stocking the ground. But ou soils of a very pro-
nounced type, such as clay, or light sandy loam,
there is no advantage to be gained in attempting
to raise species which prefer the opposite extreme,
whichever it may be, to the soil of the nursery.
If the latter be of a lighter and drier nature than
that adapted to the growth of the species, it suffers
in time of drought, its vigour is greatly decreased,
and the plants are liable to insect and fungoid
attack. On the other hand, a heavy soil results in
badly-rooted plants of those species which like a
light, dry soil, and a wet autumn produces badly-
ripened wood. In fact, for any but moisture-loving
species, a stiff nursery soil is not desirable, and
seldom produces plants favourable for transplanting
besides being much more difficult and expensive to
work than light ground.

Where a permauent nursery cannot be estab-
lished on a soil adapted to nursery stock in
general, and plants are required which do not
succeed well in it, temporary nurseries on more
-nil able soils come in very usefully at times, and for
ordinary forest trees are often preferable to per-
manent ones. They are exceptionally useful when
plauting a large area of ground which has bo be
repeatedly '-broken up" for some reason oi other :
most frequently from the poor, arid, or shallow
nature of the soil, in which plants from better
ground are difficult to get established. A few-
poles of ground trenched over in the best situation
that can be found, and fenced round with wire-

netting, is usually the form this kind of nursery
takes, and is only maintained so long as the par-
ticular class of plants it holds are required in the
plantation. Another form of temporary nursery,
and the most inexpensive of any, is one of those
patches of seedlings which are frequently found in
hardwood plantations. Hundreds of good young
plants cau be lifted out of these patches and
planted on adjoining bare ground, and in cases of
systematic natural regeneration, this operation is
usually a necessity before the area is fully stocked.
The most important qualification a nursery of any
kind can have for all but very hardy species is a
situation out of the reach of late and early frosts,
for a young tree cut back by frost rarely becomes
a well-shaped specimen under two or three years,
while if the injury from this cause is repeated two
years in succession, many plants are almost worth-
less for planting out. A. O. Forbeg.
(To be continued).

Book Notice.

The Municipal Parks, Gardens, and Open
Spaces of London, their History and
Associations. By Lieut. -Col. Sexby, V.D.
(with numerous illustrations). (Elliot Stock.)
The title-page fairly indicates the nature of the
contents of this book. It is a detailed and descrip-
tive list of the pleasure-grounds of the metropolis,
other than the Royal Parks, Wimbledon Common,
Eppiug Forest, and others not under the jurisdic-
tion of the London County Council. Our first
impression, on perusing the book, is one of pro-
found satisfaction that so large an area has been
secured, free from the intrusion of the builder.
The next feeling is, that whilst the outer borders
and the suburbs of London are, as it is shown, well
provided with breathing spaces, the central portions
of the great city are still lamentably deficient in
opeu spaces. The reservation of a large number
of small areas, well distributed throughout the
densely crowded parts of the metropolis, is now
a matter of much greater importance for sanitary
purposes than the acquisition of large parks at a
distance.

Those who look in this book for mauy details
relatiug to landscape gardening or to horticulture
as practiced in the parks, will be disappointed.
These subjects are, of course, uot wholly ignored,
but they are treated very scantily as compared with
the "history and associations." As we are told
this outright on the title-page, we have no right to
complain, however much we may regret what we
may think a lost opportunity. What we have is
an account of each park or enclosure, together with
a very full presentation of the historical associa-
tions connected with it. Thus, while only two or
three pages are devoted to a description of the
Embankment ( lardens proper, about twenty-five are
taken up with the history of the Cleopatra obelisk,
the Savoy Chapel and Hotel, aud other edifices,
having only indirect connection with the gardens.
It is satisfactory, however, to have so many
details of surrounding structures, and so many
dates recorded in so accessible a form. From this
point of view Col. Sexby's volume will form a
valuable work of refereuce.

Under the head of the Albert Embankment
Gardens, we have a short account of Lambeth
Palace, including a statement to this effect,
" in this hall was held one of the most famous
trials of modern times— that of Dr. King, Bishop
of Lincoln, for ritualistic practices. The case
was tried before the Archbishop and five other
Bishops, and iu the end Dr. King was acquitted
of all the charges except two." What this has
to do with the Albert Embankment Gardens,
it is not easy to estimate. Some mention of the
old physic garden of the Society of Apothecaries
near to the Chelsea Embankment Gardens would
have been more in place, even though it did not
technically fall within the scope of the book.
Under the heading Waterlow Park, we find refer-

euce to the Hon. and Rev. George Spencer, who is
said to have adopted the name of ' ' Father Igna-
tius." If so, there must have been two Rich-
monds in the field, for we believe the family name
of the present Father Ignatius, of Llauthony
Abbey, is Lyne. While so much is said of Wapping,
which has little or no connection with Wapping
Recreation Ground, it is remarkable that nothing
should be said about the notorious Tichbourne
Claimant, who has as good a claim to commemora-
tion iu these pages as Judge Jeffreys, to whom some
space is devoted.

The beauty, picturesqueness, and interest of
some of the London commons is duly alluded to,
and the account of Bostall Heath is enough to make
oue want to visit it forthwith. Comparatively little
mention, however, is made of those geological and
natural-history features which give so great a
charm to these open spaces, and which, indeed,
furnish the key to their beauty aud interest.
The botanist aud entomologist may still find
plenty of material for their researches, even in
places which at first sight seem very unpromising.
Perhaps it is as well that the author has been reti-
cent upon these points, but he would have been
quite in order, and done uo harm, had he given us
lists of the trees and shrubs which thrive best in
the London squares and on suburban commons,
aud a few hints on the most appropriate methods
of laying out these enclosures according to varying
circumstances. Whilst we cannot look upon Col.
Sexby's book as at all complete, especially from
the horticultural point of view, we may commend
it to the reader for the great variety and interest
of the information the author has got together,
information which will be of interest to every
Londoner, whether within or without the twelve-
mile circuit. The book is full of interesting
illustrations, and has a good index.

SPONTANEOUS HYBRIDS OF
HARDY PLANTS.

(I mtinvei i i p. us.)

Tnr. genus Dianthus makes a great variety of
hybrids out of a few species grow u in my garden,
and as most of the hybrids are fertile, and their
progeny seems to be more disposed to depart further
from the parental types than to revert to them, a
nondescript medley is the result, in which it is
difficult to find any consistent characters. I will
first mention three good species which I have grown
almost annually from home-saved seed for many
generations without noticing any signs of hybridis-
ing. These are D. alpinus, I>. neglectus, and 1).
sylvestris. Also D. deltoides, both the pink and the
white form, comes up spontaneously in many parts
of my garden year after year true to the type ; but
it certainly lends its pollen to form hybrids with
one other species which I raised from seed sent as
D. viscidus, but I believe it to be D. pubescens.
Anyhow, seedlings from it are intermediate
between that and D. deltoides. I next mention
two species, both of which I have repeatedly raised
quite true, viz., D. superbus from imported seed,
and D. cresius from seed collected wild for me ou
the Cheddar rocks. The seed I save from these
species never comes true to the parent. D.
superbus is only biennial in Edge garden, but the
hybrids I raise from it are perennial, aud very
prolific in the way they spread. The flowers of
one form exactly resemble the portrait of one
named D. Fischeri in Sweet's Flower Garden, and
looks as if the pollen-parent had been D. barbatus.
Other forms are much dwarfer, and the flowers
might lie called intermediate between those of D.
superbus and ca'sius. These may be increased
without eud by pulling off and striking the tufts ;
but they also produce seed, which grows into
various and, for the most part, worthless forms.
D. csesius itself always shows hybrids from the
seed I save iu my gardeu. These mostly tend in
the direction of what I suppose to be dwarf forms
of D. plumarius, having generally a conspicuous

March IS, 1899.1

THE GA li DENEB S' CHE ONI CLE.

165

dark purple eye and a white fringed edge, and
retaining the glaucous tufts of D. capitis ; these,
too, are fertile, and in one or two more generations
some of them grow in size, and have a tendency to
become double.

I have no knowledge of the wild type of D.
plumarius, to which the garden Pink is referred ;
but whether D. csesius is a recognised factor of the
garden Piuk, or whether, by repeatedly crossing
with the double garden forms, it gradually assumes
all their characters, I feel certain that in a very

They are very fragrant, many having the usual
clovescent, but some smelling distinctly of Jasmine,
Besides these I grow recognised hybrid forms, such
as that called Cyclops, some of which are fertile,
but I have never found any constant from seed.

Aquilegias, when grown together, are as difficult
as Mulleins to keep true to fchi parents from seed ;
but in Aquilegia, the species are less clearly
defined. It is not many years since Bentham
announced, in Genera Plantarum, that the fifty or
sixty species of Columbine ought probably to be

Fig. 57. g u.Avnii s "c vssau \."

few generations from genuine D. caasius, garden
Pinks may be produced. Other doubtful elements
in the medley of small nondescript Pinks which
abound in my garden may be I), rupestris, D.
fragrans, D. caucasicus, names under which I have
bought and raised seed, though I have seldom been
satisfied that it was genuine ; but when mixed
together, they result in densely tufted plants,
Howering more or less plentifully on stalks from
(i inches high to more than a foot, the solitary
flowers being either much fringed or nearly plain,
aud from half an inch to 1 inch ami a half across ;
all of them produce seed freely, which I distribute
to my friends as "mixed dwarf single Pink."

come again after a generation or two, though the
general tendency is towards the more robust kind,
and, unless weeded out, the stronger A. vulgaris
seems to prevail. A. canadensis, A. chrysantha,
A. ccerulea, long spurn-] kinds, make hybrids
indifferently with one another, and with the short-
spurred A. vulgaris and A. glandulosa; only two or
three species, from flowering at a different season
or being uusuited lor the foreign pollen that comes
in their way, continue true. The first is a A. viridi-
tlora, a distinct aud delicate kind, rarely seen,
though I have raised it from seed more than
once, bin soon lost it. Another is A. Skinneri, of
which I once got true seed, though hybrids of A.
canadensis generally do duty for it. I found the
genuine plant wanted a warmer climate and soil
than those of my garden. At first it flowered well
in July, then less well iu August, then shabbily
in September, and dwindled away. A third kind,
which 1 am glad to keep true, is the dwarf crisp-
leaved, large-flowered A. pyrenaica, a delightful
little rock plant. This does not flower till late in
June, when the coarser kinds are over, and makes
true seed, and is an ornament to my rockery all
through July. All the other so-called species I
have tried coalesce in the next generation with
those thoy find already in lie garden. I would
add, that my friend the late Mr. Rawsou, of Fall-
barrow, used to hybridise Columbines successfully,
both as to colour ami mixed characters, by coin
plete isolation wdien in flower, and cutting out the
anthers. I have tried hybridising in the open
garden without any definite results. Nearly all
Mr. Rawson's hybrids could be matched by some
of mj spontaneous hybrids, but he could ensure the
result which in my case is accidental. C. II'. Dod.
{ To be conliTi ut <'.)

reduced to five or six'; but leaving tins to] be
settled by botanists, there is no doubt that if the
distinct forms are isolated, they may be kept per-
fectly constant from seed for an indefinite time,
as the kind called A. glandulosa has been in the
Highland nursery at Forres. When flowering
simultaneously in Edge garden, they are visited
and crossed by humble bees from the hour that
the flowers open until they drop to pieces from the
repeated probings of these bees, and though I
regularly mark the best flowers for _seed, I never
know what the seed will produce.

In Columbines, however, then- is always a ten-
dency to revert, and the best forms sometimes

GALANTHUS "CASSALIA."

Tins is one of the best, and most distinct of all
I hi' nru Snowdrops from Asia Minor, and was Senl
t > us from Smyrna by Mr. Ed. Whittall, who also
sent the noble form of 6. latifolius "Ikaria-," and
more recently the giant form of (I. Elwesii Wl.il
talli, which, by general consent of all Snowdrop
growers, will, as I hope, long bear Ins respected
name.

6. Cassalia (fig. 57) grows a foot I ugh, or more.
Its broad foliage is very hoary. looking, being covered
Willi a thick grey bloom, which is easily rubbed off
by the fingers. The flowers are large and bold,
but quite distinct from those of <;. Elwesii in the
blotch on the three inner perianth segments. As
shown in my -ketch, the basal blotch and thet\. .,
apicaldots, or deltse, are conjoined, and not separati
as in the last named kind. F. II". Burbidge.

Scotland.

FORESTRY ABROAD AND AT HOME.

On February -20, an interesting lecture on the
" Native Indian Forest Service " was delivered
in the Conveyancing Class ■ room of Edinburgh
I diversity, by Sir Dietrich Brandis, K.C. I.K .
LL.D. The lecturer, the place, and the sub-
ject matter of the lecture, as well as the fact
that the same gentleman, who is ex Inspector-
General of Forests in India, has undertaken to
lecture for the Royal Scottish Arboi ieiiltui al
Society, at their Rooms, 5, St. Andrew Square,
ou Friday, the 24th mst.. at 7. SO, under the pre-
sidency of the Earl of Mansfield, gives the subject
unique and timely importance. The subject of the
lecture ou Friday next will be "Pure Forests and
Mixed Forests.'

It was a happy coincidence that though Sir
Dietrich's subject on Monday at the University was
the "Native Indian Forest Service," he began by
sketching the progress that was being gradually
n in I' ■ all over the world iu the science and practici
of forestry ; and though it was a far cry from India
to Edinburgh, he cited, in confirmation of the

166

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 18, 1S99.

ameliorating influence of judicious planting on the
world's landscape and climate, the remarkable
changes that had come over for the better, the
Heriot's Row and Queen's Street districts of Edin-
burgh, which were described in 18H, in The
Memories of a Highland Lady, as an untidy
wilderness.

Since then Edinburgh has become a beautiful
town, and similar progress might be seen in all
parts of India. The lecturer, however, said nothing
to the effect that the planter had not yet added his
last touches of grace, tints of colour, or powers of
treating, to either Edinburgh or India. Eew cities
njed more care bestowed on tr.ei and shrubs, and
none needs bright colours more as a relief to its
endless lines and masses of grey that tower so
high and spread so far and wide in all directions.
But the lecturer hastened to remark, that
enthusiastic foresters hoped that regular forest
management might change the climate of India.
While admitting that the improvements in the
climate of India, with its extremes of heat,
deluges of rain, and parching droughts, would be
very desirable, and worth all their efforts as
planters, the lecturer seemed doubtful whether
very great changes of this sort were within
their reach as foresters. There were, however,
many smaller benefits which improved forest
management might confer upon India. Happily,
the forests, which covered 51,000,000 acres, were
in the hands of the Government. They were the
great sources of fuel, not only for home use, but
for manufactures in the form of charcoal. To
provide sufficient fuel for the peasantry, forests
would have to be planted not only on the hills but
also in the open country, and this might interfere
with the grazing or other customs of the people. For
instance, as more iron is made in Southern India,
sufficient charcoal will need an extension of forest
areas, and this would curtail the extent under
grass for grazing. Such delicate questions are best
settled by native forest officers on the spot.

Three classes of officers are needed for these
great forest estates in India : 1st, protective
officers, men of the locality, without any pro-
fessional education ; "2nd, executive officers, forest
rangers ; and 3rd, controlling officers, and the con-
dition of such officers must be so improved as to
induce natives of the first families to enter the
Government foreign service. Doubtless the lec-
turer's object in this lucid division of labour
is to interest all classes and castes in India in
the progress and prosperity of the national forest*,
on which so much of the health and happiness of
India depends. £>. T. Fish.

The Week's Work.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotliam Park. Barnet.

Polalos. — Large breadths of Potatos may now be
planted, the Ashleaf and dwarf -topped varieties being
planted on warm borders. It is good practice iu
the gardens to allow a space of 2 to 2J feet between
the rows of the main crop varieties, and even the
Ashleaf crops better if given 2 feet. As with other
vegetables, Potatos need a change of seed occasion-
ally, and of soil annually. If the land be in good
condition it should be stirred with a fork, and the
drills drawn at from 2 to 2i feet apart according
to the strength of the variety, and 4 inches deep.
Although the quality of Potatos varies a good deal
iu different soils and seasons, I do not advocate
the growing of a great many varieties, but prefer
to grow a few good ones. Land which has been
planted some time should lie looked over occasion-
ally, and a small quantity of soil put over the tops
as soon as they appear. Where large plots are
planted, the early and dwarfer-growing varieties
should be set on one side of the plot, the future
furrows between them being planted with early
Savoys or other vegetable, a sort of inter-cropping
that is of great use in small gardens.

Peas. — As soon as the plants are 2 inches high,
draw some earth to them and put in the stakes,

these affording some little protection against wind
and frost, twigs of Laurel or Spruce stuck in
between improving the protection. Those Pea-
plants raised in small pots, in drills cut iu turves,
or in shallow boxes and troughs, should be kept
cool preparatory to being planted on the south
border. As soon as planted, let them be protected
in the manner indicated. Peas may be sown at
intervals of twelve days from the begiuniug of
April till the middle of June, when the last sowing
for the season is usually made, not omitting to sow
twice during the present month.

Turnips. — A fairly good breadth of Extra Early
Milan may now lie sown in drills drawn 1 foot
apart ; most other varieties require 15 to 18 inches.
As the first sowing may bolt, sow again in a fort-
night Early Milan. Snowball, and Red Globe. The
Turnip needs a soil rich in nitrogen, and for the
summer crops the position should be as cool as can
be found. Early Milan is remarkable for its
earliness, and it is a variety of fairly good quality
when used young ; but its season is brief, like
the Flat Dutch, and a good, white-fleshed, more-
enduring variety should be sown at the same time.

French Beaux. — Those being forced in a hot-
house should not have a lower temperature than
60° by night, with a rise of 10° to 15 with sun-
shine, nor should the plants lack water at the
roots, nor liquid-manure at alternate applications.
Hard water is injurious to the French Beau, but
liquid-manure alternately afforded with water
seldom fails in producing a satisfactory crop of
Beans and healthy leaves. Syringe the plants
early iu the afternoon, when shutting up the houses,
pits, or frames. Sow seed at intervals, according
to the demand and the available means for growing
the plants.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Helleborus niger ami other species. — Those who
wish to increase their stock of these plants should,
now that the flowering seasou of most species is
past, and growth is commencing, take up each clump,
wash every bit of soil from the roots, and divide
them with a knife, removing all of the remains of
old flower-sterns. Having selected a piece of
ground facing north, or at the least somewhat
shady, trench it 2 feet deep, placing a thick layer
of rotten farmyard manure at the bottom of the
trenches. When it has settled a bit, make it firm
by treading it regularly all over, and plant each
Hellebore crown 18 inches apart. It is best not to
lift the whole stock of plants, but a few plants
anuually, as the plant requires to be thoroughly
established before it will flower freely. They
should not be allowed to become dry at the roots.

The Pruning of Roses. — The Rose bushes and
standards are, owing to the mildness of the season,
a fortnight earlier in starting into growth, and
they will have to be pruned so much earlier. It is
advisable that each standard or bush be cut back
in accordance with its vigour ; for example, strong-
growing varieties, such as Captain Christy, Mis.
John Laiug, Madame Isaac Pereire, &c,, should
have the small shoots thinned out, the strong
growths shortened back to six buds, and those of
only moderate growth to two buds. Bush Roses,
when budded on the Manetti and seedling Briar,
should be kept to six strong shoots, left U to 2 feet
in length, these being pruned iu the manner advised
for standards, shoots being left according to the
strength of the same, with four, six, or eight buds
each ; and all probably flowerless and weak shoots
removed without leaving any snags. Suckers, that
is, shoots coming up from the stock, should always
be pulled or dug up, not cut off, when young, but
if own-root Roses throw suckers, these ought to be
retained.

Pillar Poses are very ornamental when in flower,
but they should not be planted iu great numbers
unless it be in a Rose-garden proper, as flowering but
once in the year, they are not nice-lookiug at other
seasons. The plants when planted should be
afforded rich loam, and be fed liberally afterwards,
they then give an abundant harvest of bloom.
Turner's Crimson Rambler, Alister Stella Grey,
Fellemberg Noisette, W. A. Richardson, L'Ideal,
Bardon Job, Aiinee Vibert, and the Penzance
Briars, are excellent as pillar Roses. I have had
them fastened to iron supports, but larch poles
with the branches shortened to a foot are
better. The poles should be 12 feet high, and the

Rose-shoots trained round them. The side-shoots
on last year's wood should be shortened back, and
all shoots from the root allowed to grow, and in
time they will replace the older stems which will
have to be removed. The Penzance Briars are
beautiful when allowed to grow wild similar to the
Dog Roses of our hedges. Pillar Rose shoots should
be cut at various heights, from 2 to 12 feet.

China Poses. — These compact growing species and
varieties of Roses, sometimes called monthly Roses,
are very suitable for forming beds and edgings to
beds of other Roses, and they may be had in bloom
for about seven months in the year. It is advisable to
prune them as soon as the first flowers have passed.
The strongest shoots should be cut over regularly,
having them from 6 inches to 1 foot long, and retain-
ing as many of the good shoots as possible which
come from the base of the plauts. The later
growth will keep up a long succession of bloom.
Archduke Charles, Cramoise Superieur, Fabvier,
and Red Pet, with brilliant crimson flowers ;
Madame Breon and Queen of the Belgiaus, rose and
flesh-coloured, are excellent varieties.

Tea Poses. — These attain great perfection when
grown on a north border, or on an aspect where,
during frosty weather, sunshine does not reach them
much. For several years Madame Van Houtte,
Madame Lambard, Madame de Watteville, Madame
Willermoz, and Catherine Mermet, have grown
here unprotected, and trained on a wall with a
northern aspect, and produced blooms finer in tex-
ture and colour than those grown on a southern
aspect with protection. These Roses only require
to have the thin and weakly wood cut out.

Tender A nnuals. — Seeds of Asters, Stocks,
Phlox Drummondi, Zinnias, Salpiglossis, Sun-
flowers, golden Pyrethrum, Sweet Sultan, Tagetes,
Scabious, &c. , should be sown iu pots, pans, or
boxes, and placed near the glass in cold frames ;
other annuals are best when sown in the open
ground towards the end of the month.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Lilies. — The Lily bulbs growing in pots pluuged
in beds of coal-ashes, &c, should now be examined
weekly, taking out of the ashes those which have
made growth of au inch or two above ground, and
placing them in a cold frame. When the Lilies are
well rooted, they may be introduced to gentle heat
in numbers as may be required. By placing a
batch under glass at intervals of ten to fourteen
days, and allowing the latest to remain plunged
in the open air until the flowers are on the point of
opening, the flowering seasou will be prolonged until
towards the end of the summer. These remarks
apply mostly to Liliuin lougiflorum var. Harrisii.

//. rbaceous Calceolarias. — If aphis be noticed,
let the plauts be fumigated lightly, and repeat the
operation till none is seen. If extra large Cal-
ceolaria plants are required, the main flower-stems
must be pinched once as soon as they appear, and
a shift into pots one size larger afforded. Such
plants will flower later than the smaller plants,
ami the heads of bloom will be much bigger.

Shoio and Fancy Pelargoniums which have not
been shifted into their flowering-pots should be
attended to in this respect forthwith. In the case
of large plants, the shoots must be tied out
with greeu-tinted carpet-thread or fine raffia.
The ties should fit loosely round the shoot, and be
passed under a wire or piece of strong twine fixed
below the rim of the pot, and the shoots carefully
drawn in the required direction. The shoots are.
easily broken, and much care is necessary that not
too much strain is used at one time ; but if neces-
sary, the plauts should be gone over several times,
bringing down the shoots a little at a time.

Phyllocactu*. — Such of the plauts as have been
kept comparatively dry during the winter will now
be making growth, needing light applications of
water, and on fine days an overhead sprinkling
with the syringe. Even in the season of growth
these plauts should not be afforded water unless
the soil has become dry. Applications of weak
liquid-manure may be afforded occasionally during
growth and flowering. The drainage should be iu
a perfect condition. Propagation by means of
cuttings may now be carried out, using cladodes of
last year's growth 4 or 5 inches in length, and
placing them in sandy loam in well-drained small

March IS, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

167

pots, which may lie stood on a shelf in the stove,
scarcely any water being required till rooted beyond
what reaches them from the daily syringing of the
house.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. YotiNG, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wican,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

C&logyne pandurata. — The genus Cclogyne con-
tains many interesting species, but none can com-
pare with pandurata in size or in the remarkable
colouring of its blooms. When established and
placed in a suitable position, few Orchids grow so
readily, but to flower it regularly requires just the
right kind of treatment at just the right time.
The plants are now in a suitable condition for
removing old or adding new material to the growing
rhizome. My method, which has the merit of
having good results, is to grow the plants on teak
rafts, so that the rhizome travels across the bars, and
to fasten it down to about 3 inches of the wood, and
beneath it place a few large crocks, on which lay
some peat and sphagnum-moss in e<|iial proportions
up to the base of the rhizome, and about 4 inches ou
each side ; do not press it, but simply place it along-
side, and as the rhizome advances over the edge
of the raft, another piece has to be fixed to the
original one, and the process repeated. The best-
position for it is the shady side of the Kast Indian-
Louse ; and if there is uo open stage, let the rafts be
raised upon Orchid- pots, so that the air may circu-
late amongst the plants. From now onwards afford
water freely till the. bulbs are fully grown. A
partial rest should be given by kcepiDg the plant
on the dry side for fourteen days. Our plants
usually make two pseudo-bulbs on each rhizome
each year, the second one never flowering, and it is
after this second one is completed that no more
water is given than will keep the rooting materials
moist, and in the depth of winter it should be
allowed to remain unsupplied with water Fors week
at a time. The spikes are now appearing in the
centre of the new growths, and nothing can be
prettier than a spike with a dozen or more of its
green and black (lowers. No insect infests or
harms the plant, but an occasional sponging of the
leaves is necessary to free them from dust.

( 'a logym a ■/•< rata is another shy flowerer, but if
subjected to the same kind of treatment as that
described, it seldom fails to bloom. It should be
planted in a well-drained perforated pan, using one-
third each of fihry-luani, peat, and sphagnum-moss
for compost, and sprinkling in a quantity of very
small crocks during the repotting. It should
occupy the same kind of position as C. pandurata.

Catthya labiata and G. GasMliana. — These
species having stalled to grow early this season,
much care will be called for in order to prevent hasty
development. No doubt it is the propensity to
start into growth before there has been complete
restoration of strength, which curtails the life of
most Cattleyas grown in gardens, and we should
endeavour to enforce rest so long as it is not
injurious or contrary to the nature of the plants.
To this end, a mild temperature, aud a moderate
degree of dryness at the root and in the atmosphere
should be afforded, taking care that the pseudo-
bulbs last made do not shrivel to any great extent.
Cattleya Triamei benefits by a lung 'and thorough
rest after the flowering is over, and even when new
growths appear no difference in the treatment
should ensue before the leaves are partially
developed.

Odontogiosmtm cilrosmum. — Our plants are now
sending up their flower-spikes, rendering it very
essential that the baskets or other receptacles in
which they are growing should be wetted by immer-
sing them in water for a minute or two, and
water should be afforded often enough afterwards
to keep the materials moist.

result from suitable pinching of the current year's
shoots when they have made from four to six
leaves. Pinching tends to the formation of fruits,
and preserves a well-balanced head. The use of
artificial or other manures must be governed by the
actual condition of the trees, and if there is ample
foliage, but few fruits, root-feeding must be given
up ; on the other hand, if the crop of fruit is
abundant, and the pots are filled with roots, and
the growth is moderate, then manures will do good
if applied in weak doses. The ventilation should
be regulated iu accordance with the state of the
weather, but no opportunity should be lost of
admitting fresh air to the house. A night tempe-
rat in e of 70 will be ample, with a rise by the aid
of sunshine during the day to 85 .

Cucumbers in Frames. — Wherea Cucumber-house

or pits do not exist, or are not available, the
Cucumber may he grown in dung-heated frames
and pits during the summer and autumn months.
The beds to afford bottom and top-heat may consist
of fresh stablo litter aud tree-leaves of a lasting
nature, as Oak, Beech, and Chestnut, which should
be mixed together and thrown into a heap to induce
fermentation before setting to work to make the
bed. In quantity there should be enough to make
the required hot-bed of an average height of 3J feet.
When the rank steam has been got rid of by the
repeated turnings, the bed may be carefully built
up, keeping much of the strawy litter towards I lie
sides of the bed. The bed, if compactly made,
that is, the materials are well mixed and made
quite firm, will not get violently hot and then
decline just as quickly, but will afford a lasting
warmth, which warmth may lie maintained for four
mouths by the aid of dung linings. The bed should
be made 1 foot bigger thau tin frames all round,
aud should be kept in form by having stout stakes
driven into the ground at each angle. The linings
may be put round the frames on the top of the bed
at first, and later they must I..- built up from the
ground. Each light of an ordinary frame will
accommodate two plants, but for small frames one
plant per light is sufficient - I tider each light place
several wheelbarrowf uls of rich soil in the middle
in the form of a low hillock, additions being made
later in such ,i manner as to make a level flat bed.
I >o net plant out the Cucumber plants until it is as-
certained that the bottom-heat has declined U>85 ,
aud the soil to 80°. Having set out the plants, keep
the frame-lights as close as it may be safe to do,

but as there is usually agood deal of hot ammo-
niacal steam for the first ten days, a chink of air
should be afforded at night. If in the early morn-
ing pearly drops hang on the edges of the leaves,
that is a good sign, and the plants will make fast
progress, and will need no dewing over till 3 P.M.,
and perhaps not eveu then if the day is wet or
dull. Iu sunny weather shade must be employed
so long as air is afforded, and a light sprinkle of
the leaves afforded at closing time. The treatment
of the plants is in other respects similar to that
given to Cucumber plants in houses. A test-stick
or plunging-thermometer should be used to ascertain
the degree of heat in the bed of soil, which should
be kept to about so , by the means indicated above.
To obtain straight fruits of varieties that grow to a
great length, boxes or glasses should be used.
The management in ordinary brick pits is the same.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Stricineli., Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Tht Fig-house. -Those Figs which are the earliest
in point of growth will require close attention in
regard to water at the root, as any lack of moisture
in the soil may result in the droppiug of the fruit.
Endeavour should be made to afford moist sur-
roundings without syringiug the foliage, which
leads to the ripeniug fruits being injured. The
object with these early trees is the development of
an early crop of fruits. A successional crop will

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq., Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

Greeting. — Where this operation is to be carried
out, either as a means of working a variety on to
one whose fruit is less valued, or the rejuvenescence
of an aged tree, the materials required by the
grafter should now be prepared. First there is
the clay, which in this country is commonly used
for covering the point of union, to be mixed with
short chaff or horse-droppings, and well "pugged "
with a mallet so as to render it pliant aud homo-
geneous. In place of horse-droppings or chaff alone,
fresh cow-dung may be used alone or in conjunction
with these, but not to exceed altogether the bulk of
the clay. The whole, when fit for use, should be like
stiffish mortar, and till the work begins, it should
be put in a cool shed, and the heap covered with
litter. Wait till the weather becomes milder before
commencing to graft, aud take Plums aud I hemes
(sweet) first, following on with Fears and Apples.
When wood-buds on the branches burst, grafting
may begin. The shoots which will supply the
scions will have been laying in the earth ou a cold

border, and consequently they will be less forward
than the growing stocks, and here they must
remain till wanted.

Methods of Grafting. —A common method of
grafting, and that adopted by nurserymen, is
whip or tongue-grafting, the simplest and best
form for all sorts of small stocks and scions.
The scion and stock should correspond very
nearly in diameter, the length of the first being
5 to 7 inches, and it must be furnished with two or
three buds, two of these being above the junction
of scion and stock. Having cut off the latter near
to the ground or the spot desired, remove a thin
slice of wood and bark from the stock about 3 inches
long on the side where the upward cut was made
in beheading it, and cut a similar slice from the
scion, leaving a slight shoulder to rest on the top
of the stock. Make a downward incision in the
upper part of the stock about half an inch deep, and
a similar upward cut in the scion, the one fitting
into the other, and making a firmer join than it is
possible without it, helping also to hold them
together till secured by bast or worsted. The rind
of the scion and stock when thus adjusted should
meet together on both sides if possible; then pro-
ceed to biud them together, drawing the material
moderately tight, but not so as to injure the
rind of either. The last operation consists of
"claying" the grafts. First, rub a little in
aud on to the matting, iu order to exclude the
wei, and then take a ball of clay, and gradually
spread it round the graft, but not covering the top
bud, so as to form an elongated egg-shaped mass,
tapering oli' nicely at the top and bottom. If the
fingers be dipped in wood-ashes or fine sand, the
clay will not stick to them, and the moulding into
shape will be the more easily done. Other methods
of grafting will be mentioned iu my next Calendar.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.

Condition of Stock.-— Bees have from abnormal
dwindled a good deal, and are therefore
less able to keep their brood-nest warm than they
were a month ago ; and this, too, at a time
when they naturally have commenced brood-
rearing. Occasional cases may discover themselves
during such hasty inspections as we have referred
to where dysentery has set in, necessitating a
partial transfer to clean, wholesome combs and a
dry hive : but only in a very bad case should we
do more than give the cake of soft warm candy.

Loss of Qua i ns. Queenlessness may be suspected
B In i, the bees exhibit unusual restlessness, but if
they survive in any considerable strength we would
prefer to have them as they are until early iu
March, when the feeding-bottle may safely be
used as an inducement to egg laying, should there
chance to be a still-laying queen, or a frame with
eggs may be given from some other stock. This
would not only betray their actual queenlessness,
by showing queen-cells a few days later, but quicken
and preserve the bees, and supply them with the
young bees necessary to the easy and successful
introduction of a strange queen a few weeks hence.
Entrances should be cleared of dead bees when
such are observed. Those stocks will be best, off
which require no attention at all ; all others must
be handled with as little disturbance as possible.
One of the worst habits a bee-keeper can acquire is
that of constantly pulling bees about whenever the
slightest excuse offers itself. Sometimes, of course,
an inspection is imperative, and should not be
delayed if at all possible. When any unusual
appearance is noticed in a particular hive, say when
a quantity of dead bees are seen on the floor-board,
or no bees at all show themselves when other stocks
are busy, an immediate examination must be made,
and the necessary steps taken. So long, however,
as the bees are seen flying when occasion offers, all
may be assumed to be going well, and the less the
bees are interfered with the better.

S nable Hints. —Plenty of indoor work, which

should not be neglected, will now be found to occupy
the spare hours of the evening. As spring advances
time becomes more precious, and everything which
can be got ready now will save time in the future.
Sections, supers, and frames may be fitted with
foundation ready for use, and stowed away till
wauted. Provide a few frame-holders, i.e., rough
boxes without top or bottom, made of half-inch
stuff. They must be of the same dimensions, as
iusides of the hives used are very useful for h oldie
frames fitted with full sheets of foundation, or
wdien extracting.

168

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March IS, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Local News.— Comspondmts will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers. — Corresponelenis sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish tlw Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

( Truro Show of Daffodils (2 days) :
Mar. 21 { Deputation from the Royal Hor-
^ tieultural Society.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY, Map.. 22 { Shc™ °n ?"*"" <3*Mmf -
SATURDAY, Mae. 25— Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

SALES.

fThe " Waddesdon Manor" Collec-

_, 01 J tion of Orchids, by order of Miss

March Zl-j Alice de Rothschild, at Protheroe

& Morris' Rooms (two days).

TUESDAY,

FRIDAY,

.. „ . / Imported and Established Orchids,

March .t< at prot]jeroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
tho period March 5 to March 11, 1899. Height above
sea-level 24 feet.

Temperature of

Tempera-

1899.

§
IS

Soil at 0 a.m.

Ed
OS

o

§

At 9 a.m.

<

5
0

ft
e

13

13

ft

V

13

5"

WO

H

<

O

43

« „ m

H

-^

&

<£

&

n

a h o

< s

R

n

«

0J

CA

?

a $

>.

ID

$

*

<u

-4

«s

►J

o

e=

S

i-l

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

ins.

deg.

deg.

deg. deg.

Sun. 5

N.N.E.

35-8

:::;■;; U-529'5

38-3

40-2

43- 6

20-3

Mon. (i

S.S.E.

39-4 34 -5 44- 9

23-9

36'7

40-1

43-3

lfi-0

Tues. 7

s.s.w.

37-s 32-4 50-3

22-9

36-539-9

43-5

15-0

Wed. 8

w.s.w.

40-4 38-6J50-2

34-9

0-08

37-1 39-9

43'2

23-2

Thu. 9

s.s.w.

41 0 31J-3;49-l

38-5

89-9 40-3

43-2

31-8

Fri. 1"

w.s.w.

41-4

3S-8 53-3

29- a

39-3 41-1

43'2

20-2

Sat. 11

N.N.W.

41-8

41-668-1

32-6

40-2 41-4

43-2

24-5

Tot,

Means...

39-7

86-9 48-9 30-3!0-08

38'3 40- I

43-3 21-6

Remarks. — The week ending March 11 was remarkable for
clear, bright, spring-like weather. Once only was there any
rain, viz., on the evening of the sth.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 42 '6'.
Actual Temperatures : —

London. — March 15 (12 p.m.): Max. ito° ; Min. 40°.
Provinces.— March 15 (6 p.m.): Max. 59°, W. Ireland ;
Min. 42", The Bcaw.
Foggy, mild, damp.

The Daffodil
Show at Truro.

The show of Daffodils and other
spring flowers which is to be held
at Truro on the 21st and 22nd
inst., is of greater importance, and may have
more far reaching consequences, than local
exhibitions usually have. It is on this acoount,
we presume, that a deputation from the Royal
Horticultural Society has been told off to visit
the show. As this involves a journey of about 280
miles, and an absence of at least three days, this
is no light matter. We do not suppose that
the Council would esteem the difference even
between Magnicoronatit? and Parvicoronatte as
worthy of such a sacrifice if there were not
some more important aims to be attained.
Those who have the opportunity, as we have, of
seeing the enormous quantities of flowers
which reach the adjoining market from
the South of France and elsewhere, a con-
siderable proportion of which might have been
grown here, must welcome the signs that'

our own cultivators are beginning to see that an
opportunity is before them. The Scilly Islands
furnish an excellent illustration in point.
Thanks to the initiative and fostering care of the
late Mr. Augustus Smith, and of the present
Mr. Algernon Dorrien Smith, a brisk and
profitable industry has sprung up on what, for
our purposes, might have been called barren
rocks. Now, the dwellers on the mainland are
also waking up to a sense of the possibilities of
the case, and endeavouring to supplement the
tottering resources of agriculture by the more
hopeful capabilities of fruit and flower-farming,
and the Royal Horticultural Society very pro-
perly lends its aid and influence in the good
cause.

The activity in Truro has been largely stimu-
lated by the interest and energy displayed by
the Hon. John Boscawen, who bears a name
remembered with honour in the horticultural
world. The amateurs of the county who are
enthusiasts, have supported their secretary,
and stimulated the professional growers. The
Truro show will therefore be, in all probability,
amply worth seeing. A journey to that part of
Cornwall at this season is like going to tho
Riviera, whilst in some respects, as in the
glorious masses of Rhododendron, Cornwall
has the advantage.

Twenty-three classes are allotted to the
exhibition of the several kinds of Daffodil in
groups or otherwise, the premier prize being
for forty distinct varieties of Daffodils. Spring
flowers comprise Anemones, Polyanthus, Wall-
flowers, Tulips, Violets, and what must surely
render the show magnificent, Azaleas, Camel-
lias, and other outdoor shrubs, as well as
Rhododendrons, Sikkim and other.

An article in the Cornish Magazine for No-
vember last gives an excellent idea of what
Cornish Daffodils are. The growers aim at
earliness, which, of course, is desirable ; size,
which is of minor moment, and may, if excessive,
be objectionable ; and colour, which Cornish
light and air develop to a marvellous extent.

" For magnificence of [Cornish Daffodils],
grown to perfection on a large scale, I have,"
writes Mr. Engleheart, " seen nothing to
equal Mr. Andrew Lawry's flower-farm in
Mount's Ray ; the view of acre upon acre of
the silver Poeticus ornatus, and the great
waxen clusters of Grand Monarque stretching
under the brilliant spring sky of Cornwall far
away towards the blue bay, and the ancient
mount of St. Michael upstanding in the sun-
light, would need the idyllic gift of aTHEOCBlTi s
to describe worthily."

As giving some idea of the extent to which
the cultivation is carried, Mr. Engleheart
tells us that Mr. Dorrien Smith alone forces
a million Poeticus ornatus annually ! In short,
then, looking to the opportunities of the Daf-
fodil trade alone, 'every foot of suitable soil in
Cornwall must steadily rise in value.

We have said enough to justify what we have
said concerning the importance of the Truro
show. Let us turn to another aspect of the
occasion. Cultivators may do much, but their
powers, after all, are limited by the " environ-
ment," as the scientific slang of the day denotes
the conditions under which a plant has to live.
With the careful hybridist the limitations are
not so soon reached. The mere cultivator is
relatively soon pulled up short— so far and no
further can he go ; but the possibilities of the
judicious hybridist are much wider in then-
scope. There is no telling what new beauties
may be in store for us. True, many (perhaps
in. .si) of the crosses raised may, for cultural

purposes, be worthless, or no better, if so good,
as the parental forms ; but many of them
will grow under conditions where others will
not, and they are all of value to the scientific
botanist. Amidst the crowd of undistinguished
forms, one is pretty sure ultimately to blaze
forth superior to anything before known. This
is no enthusiast's dream. Has it not been
already proven '.' Among the workers in this field
we have had our Leeds and our Ba< Km iuse, and
now we have among us one on whom the mantle
of the late Dean Herbert has fallen. Georoe
Herbert Engleheart bears noble names,
recalling at once the saintly George Herbert
and the Dean, sagacious observer and skilled
experimentalist — the forerunner of Darwin in
many points, one whose work was hardly appre-
ciated to the full by the generation in which ho
lived. Mr. Engleheart, as our readers well
know, has taken up Herbert's work, has con-
finned many of his assertions, and extended his
observations, with what results the visitors to
the spring shows in London and elsewhere can
judge for themselves. At Truro, there will be
no more competent critic than he, no one who is
more completely master of his subject than ho.
Many a time and oft, our readers have had the
benefit of his experience in these columns, and
they will, wo are sure, feel no slight interest in
seeing the portrait of one to whom we, and
they, in greater degree than they know, are
under such obligations (see p. 163).

Let us bring this note to a close by quoting
from the magazine before-mentioned two ex-
tracts from Mr. Engleheart's pen, which serve
to show the spirit in which he is working: — ,

" This fearlessuess of our rough Euglish spring —
March is ' the roaring moon of Daffodils ' — has
made it pre-eminently an English flower, aud the
hands of Englishmen have fashioned it to its pre-
sent beauty. Over two and a half centuries ago
Parkinson had anticipated Mr. Peteb Bakr in
employing Pyreuean ' root-collectors,' and describes
some hundred kinds of Daffodil. The magic art of
cross-fertilisation was then undreamed of, and the
possibilities latent in Parkinsom's store awaited
the coming of Herbert, first Dean of Manchester.
HERBERT, who iu one side of his versatile genius,
was something of a pre-Darwinian Darwix, pub-
lished in 1843, tbe results of many years' experi-
ments at his Yorkshire rectory of Spofforth, aud
demonstrated that the short-crowned Narcissi of
the reputed ' species ' N. incomparabilis arc really
hybrids between the trumpet Daffodils aud the
pheasaut-eye, or N. poeticus. The first to avail
themselves of this discovery, of such paramount
importance for the enrichment of the spring garden,
were Messrs. Leeds, of Longford Bridge, near
Manchester, and Backhouse of Walsingham. By
effecting this cross in variety, and inter-crossing
the resultant seedlings with other ffowers and
one another, they obtained the host of lovely
forms now in common cultivation. These, again,
are being sedulously used by the hybridist
for the further evolution of size, form, and colour.
The subsequent workers in the same field have all
been Englishmen. A few fine Trumpet Daffodils
have been raised in Holland, notably the very
beautiful white Madame de Graaff, by Messrs. de
Graaff, of Leyden, but these seem to have been
chance seedliugs, and it is a curious fact that the
Dutch, reputed quick to discern any avenue of
profit, have never deliberately taken in hand the
hybridisation of the Narcissus. The best Poly-
anthus Narcissi or Tazettas are, it is true, of
Dutch origin, but these do not rank in general
esteem or money value with other Daffodils, and
have scarcely been improved for a century. Leeds
sulil bis entire collection for a hundred guineas,
and the sum was thought so large that it was found
by a small company of purchasers. Twenty times
the amount would now be thought a small price.

Makch 18, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

160

At the death of Johx Horsefield, the Lancashire
weaver, who raised the fine white and gold
Trumpet Daffodil bearing his name, the few bulbs
were sold by auction for eighteen pence a piece —
sic vos non vobis."

"Should a seedling ever attain to full red in
both cup and petals, it would command an enormous
price, but artistically considered, it would be some-
what of an outrage. The most disdainful of all
Daffodils in its rejection of red is the dainty little
N. triandrus, with pale, clustered, Cyclamen-like
blossoms, as common in parts of Portugal as the
Primrose in Cornwall, but practically uuknown in
England uutil fifteen years ago. From this, crossed
with the larger garden kinds, I have a series of
perfectly lovely hybrids with pendeut Fuchsia-like
flowers of the most refined cream and ivory whites.
But cross it as you will, with the most brilliant of
the red-cupped sorts, the seedlings perpetuate its
own simpler apparel, and never show a trace of red.

" A race more delightful to myself than perhaps
any other are the Leedsii varieties, intermediate
between N. poeticusand the white trumpets. It is
remarkable that in this cross the former parent
effaces the weakliness of the latter, and supplies a
diversity of vigorous and very lovely white flowers.
In the cups of some of these a quite exquisite
range of colouring occurs, which can lie only im-
perfectly conveyed by such words as salmon, citron,
apricot. Recent seedlings, perhaps, foreshow the
coming of true pink in the Daffodil. To appreciate
these delicate tints, the flowers should be studied
in the late afternoon, when the sun is off them,
and they seem to create a still, magical atmosphere
about themselves."

The Brynderwen Oak. As a Supplement to

our present issue, we present our readers with a
photographic illustration of a noble and magnificent
Oak upon Major-General Gillespie's estate, near
Usk. A description of the locality and the mea-
surements of the tree itself have been obligingly
furnished us by Major-General Gillespie as fol-
lows : — "The house, grounds, and estate of Bryn-
derwen are named after this tree. The literal
translation of Brynderwen in the Welsh language
being 'Oak on the Hill," (Bryn) Hill. (I)erwen) Oak.
The house is built on a low range oi hills which
run parallel to the river Usk. The tree is 100 yards
lo the south east front of the house. The hill range
is a Silurian upheaval, and runs from north-east to
south-west, commencing about half a mile north of
Brynderwen, and extending nearly to the town of
Usk, some two and a half miles south. Some
1:2 feet below the surface there is a fine stratum of
gravel, and all Conifers grow here in the greatest
health and luxuriance. Oaks flourish splendidly,
and the slopes of the low range, and the banks of
the river are noted for the magnificent growth and
size of the Beech trees, many of which are well
worthy the artist's brush. The back of the houso
faces the river Usk some SO yards distant. From
the windows of the house the salmou can easily be
discerned when on the move ; and a magnificent
panorama of the Welsh mountains, including the
Sugar Loaf, Bloreuge, and Pontypool hills bound
the horizon. The following are the measurements
of the Brynderwen Oak :— Circumference of bole at
ground-level, 51 feet ; trunk, at 4 feet from the
ground, 22 feet ; circumference of gnarled parting
of boughs from the trunk 0 feet ti inches from the
ground, 35 feet." The photographs were taken by
Mr. <;. Dunning, of Usk, Monmouthshire, a well
kuown local photographer.

Linnean SOCIETY: March 2.— Dr. A. GfJN-
ther, F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr. G. 0.
Druce, F.L.S., exhibited and made remarks on
specimens of Dianthus gallica from Jersey. Mr.
G. C. Druce, F.L.S. read a paper on the reported
occurrence in Ireland of Carex rhynchophysa, aod
gave reasons for believing that Carex rostrata var.
latifolia had been mistaken for it. Typical speci-
mens of both were exhibited, and also a coloured
drawing by Mr. N. E. BKOWN, A.L.S., of one of

the plants collected by Mr. Lloyd Pkaeger near
Mullaghmoro Lough, Armagh. Some further
remarks were made by Mr. C. B. Clarke, more
especially with reference to the descriptions of
plants believed to be new to the British flora. Mr.
Edward Step, F.L.S., read a paper on the ferti-
lisation of Glaux maritima. After examining some
hundreds of flowers gathered along the coast near
Port Scatho, Cornwall, he had come to the conclu-
sion that the flower is protogynous. When open,
the calyx-lobes at first separate but slightly, afford-
ing only a narrow entrance. The curvature of the
style is sufficient to bring it within the fold of a
calyx-lobe, from which the stigma projects so as to
be in the way of any insect that visits the flower
for the liquid that exudes from the ovary and base
of the style. When the yellow pollen is shed, the
style is either quite erect, or retains its original
bend sufficiently above the anthers to make self-
fertilisation probable. Owing to the lowly habit
of the plant, and its customary crowding in with
sea-sedge and grasses, it is not an easy one to watch.
Doubtless it is often fertilised with its own pollen
by the agency of flies and other insects ; but from
the position and precocity of the stigma, Mr. Step
considered that cross-fertilisation is quite as fre-
quent. He was consequently unable to agree with
Mr. Hbnslow [Trans. Linn. Soc, U.S., Bot. i.,
1S80, p. 377, pi. 44, tig. 35) as to self-fertilisation
in this plant, believing his conclusion to have been
drawn from the examination of an abnormal speci-
men. Dr. .Inns Low e, F.L.S. :— The flowering and
fertilisation of Arauja albens, G. Don.

Paris Exhibition of 1900.— The total amount
of space, including gangways, at the disposal of
British exhibitors in the horticultural section,
shown on the plan given in our last number, amounts
to 3527 square feel .

The South-Eastern and Chatham &
Dover Railways.— A petition extensively signed
by the principal receivers of fruit in Covent Garden
Market has, the Times is informed, been forwarded
to the London Couuty Council protestiug against
the proposed amalgamation of these companies, and
pointing out that the combination would be detri-
mental to the interests of the growers in Kent.
It is stated that " during the past few months fruit
has been delivered in the market from six to
twenty. four hours late without comment; this
with the soft fruit will simply mean ruin to the
fruit-grower. The amalgamation will be very serious
to all interested in the fruit trade, as no benefit
is likely to accrue by the proposed fusion."

At a huge and influential meeting of Kentish

fruit -growers and farmers, held at Maidstone last
week, the amalgamation of the South- Eastern and
Chatham & Dover Railway Companies was dis-
cussed. Mr. Leney (chairman of the Maidstone
Farmers' Club) stated that Mr. Willis had
assured him that the companies were prepared to
give the Kent farmers every facility if they would
only say definitely what they wanted. The follow-
ing resolution, propositi by Mr. CobnwALLIS, M.l'.,
was passed: — "That no rate at present in ex-
istence on either line for the conveyance of fruit or
other agricultural produce should be raised, and
that a clause should be inserted in the Amalgama-
tion Bill to this effect. That this meeting also
draw the Companies' serious attention to the late
delivery of fruit by them, and the great difficulty
experienced in obtaining a prompt return of empty
baskets."

A deputation consisting of members of

Parliament, representing constituencies served by
the South Eastern aud Chatham Railway Cos., and
representatives of fruit-growing and other im-
portant industries, waited upon Mr. Cosmo BoNSOE,
M. P., chairman of the managing committee of the
joiut Hues, at Cliaring-cross Hotel, recently.
The deputation, which was introduced by Sir
William Hart-Dyke, M.P. , included Messrs.
George Wyndham, M.l'.. Laurence Hardy,
M.P., A. S. T. G. Boscawen, M.P., J. Pjsnn,

M.P., A. H. A. Morton, M.P., J. H. DudleV
Ryder, M.l'., Henniker Heaton, M. P., Colonel
Warde, M.l'., and Lord Cranbourne, M.P.
Sir William Hart-Dyke said the deputation
would like to hear the policy proposed to be
adopted by the joint lines in the event of the Bill
for amalgamation receiving the sanction of Parlia-
ment. [It has since passed the second reading.]
Two years previously the then chairman of
the South Eastern Railway made certain very
satisfactory promises with regard to rates for
agricultural produce, &c, but said it would
be impossible to give effect to such promises until
a working arrangement had been arrived at with
the Chatham Company. Mr. COSMO BoNSOR, in
reply, assured the deputatieu that the pledges
given by Sir GEORGE Rlnsell should be loyally
fulfilled by the managing committee, and the key
to the reform which the deputation were so
desirous of efiectiug was the provision of new
capital, and that capital, so far as the Chatham
Company was concerned, could not be provided
except by means of the present Bill, consequently
the rejection of the measure would mean that the
reforms referred to must be indefinitely postponed,
whereas the passage of the Bill would ensure their
being carried out. He also gave the deputation
a8surauces with regard to workmen's trains, aud
other matters. Sir William Hart-Dyke then
thanked Mr. COSMO BoNSOR, aud the deputation
withdrew.

Caution to Advertisers.— The Publisher
desires us once again to warn advertisers as to the
tricks and devices of those who seek to obtain
money from them under the promise of obtaining
situations for them. One such epistle is before us,
dated from 10, Air Street, Regent Street, London
(a newsvendpr's shop). In it the writer makes
mention of a nurseryman at Highgate, who has also
four retail shops at the West End, and contracts
for the supply of flowers, fruit, and forced vege-
tables to all the principal West End Hotels. The
name of the nurseryman with this extensive business
is quite unknown to us, and finds no place in the
Horticultural Directories, so far as we can see. A
"security" of £2 is asked of the advertiser for an
introduction to this desirable employer. We trust
no advertiser will be so unwise as to accede to the
suggestions of anyone who makes such a demand.

A New Horticultural Paper.- Messrs.
( laasell & Co. anuounce a new weekly penny
gardening paper, to be kuown as The Qardenf.r.
The first number will appear next week.

Cape Fruit.— The TantaUon Castte has arrived
from the ( 'ape with 702 boxes of Grapes, 63 of
Peaches, 10 of Pears, 87 of Plums, aud 5 of
Nectarines. The Plums once more proved of ex-
cellent quality, and quickly sold at high prices.
There seems to be a good market here for this kind
of fruit, and it is to be hoped that we may be
favoured with larger supplies next season. (If the
Black and White Grapes most were in good con-
dition, securing good prices — the black as usual
fetching the higher figure. The Pears, it may be
noted, were poor in quality, aud hardly worth
selling. The Nectarines were not put on the
market. The Peaches were first-class fruit, aud
sold at good prices.

HYBRIDISING. — Our euergetic American con-
temporary, American Gardening, of New York,
announces in its issue of March 4, an importaut
prize offer for articles on hybridisation. In all,
thirty pounds t'lin will be given in three prizes,
of fifteen, ten, and five pounds respectively. The
offer is contained in the followiug words : "For the
best paper on hybridisation, treating the subject
from the point of view of its value to science and to
horticulture. No special group of plants is specified,
the writer being expected to give, in concise form, a
general treatment of the subject, and to treat it
from an historical as well as from a practical and
scientific point of view. No paper to be under

170

THE GABDENERS' GHBQNICLE.

[March IS, 1899.

1000 words in length, nor to exceed 5000 words."
Papers in the competition must be sent in to the
Editor, American Gardening, 136, Liberty-st., New
York, U.S.A., on or before April 15 next.

Species of Rosa wherewith to Effect
CROSSES. — It is stated in our contemporary, the
Rosen Zeitung, that of species to operate as seed-
bearers or pollen-bearers, are R. Harrisoni and R.
sulphurea flore-pleua. The former consist of
Marechal Niel, Jean Pernet, Madame Falcot,
Medea, and Sunset ; and the pollen-bearers, Beaute
Inconstante, Belle Lyonnaise, Gustave Regis,
Comtessede Frigneuse, and Madame Pernet Ducher.
Rosa sulphurea plena might be similarly crossed
both ways. This is an extremely rloriferous hardy
plant, flowering in June, and bearing fruits freely.
It is considered extremely probable that some
distinct and beautiful varieties would result from
crosses effected between the two species and the
live varieties named.

The Botanical Magazine. — The March

number contains coloured plates and descriptions
of the following plants : —

Dryandra calophylla, R. Br., t. 7642. — Alow-
growing shrub of tufted habit, with numerous
spreading leaves, about 1 foot long ; linear pinnately
sect, the lobes ovate, triangular, dark green and
glabrous above, rufously hairy beneath. The yellow
flowers are densely arranged in close heads, sur-
rounded by a short involucre of leafy bracts.
Flowered in the temperate-house at Kew in 1893.

Passijiora pruinosa, Mast., t. 7643. — See Gard.
Chron., 1897, vol. ii., 393, f. 17.

Kniphofia Tuefoi, Baker, t. 7644. — See Gard.
Chron., 1893, i., f. 68.

Gynoplenra humUis, Romer, t. 7645. — A much-
branched, low-growing annual, with hairy, linear,
oblong leaves, and terminal corymbs of whitish
rlowers, with much of the structure of a Passion-
flower, and very interesting botanically. A native
of Peru and Chile.

Posa acicnlaris, Lindley, var. nipponensis, Hook.,
t. 7646. — A single -flowered Rose, originally derived
from Japan ; more or less covered with glandular
bristles ; leaves with four pairs of pinna- .and a
terminal leaflet, stipules leafy ; flowers deep rose-
pink, surrounded by a calyx of live linear, entire
sepals : pedicel studded with glandular hairs, fruit
elliptical red, contracted at the throat and sur-
mounted by the withered sepals.

"Park and Cemetery" is the title of a
monthly publication issued at Chicago, to which
we have nothing precisely analogous. It is "de-
voted to art out-of-doors, parks, cemeteries, town
and village improvements." Certainly, great im-
provements are needed in the decoration (?) of our
cemeteries, where too often the beautiful lines of
the landscape-gardener are defaced by the obtrusive
productions of the cemetery-mason. A society
exists called the Association of American Cemetery
Superintendents, the object of which is to "culti-
vate a sense of the beautiful ; " and the journal
before us has the same object.

"Gartnerisches Central Blatt."— This
is a new German periodical devoted especially to
nomenclature, the knowledge of plants, plant
nutrition and plant protection, the industrial and
hygienic properties of plants, as well as the educa-
tional and literary aspects of botany. The editor
is M. Andreas Voss ; the business manager, to
whom all letters are to be addressed, is Mr. C.
Daumer, Weisseuburgerstrasse 66, Berlin.

New Creations in Fruits and Flowers.
— This is the catalogue of Mr. Luther Burbank,
one of the greatest of hybridists. Visitors to his
grounds at Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California,
"are not allowed, as no possible benefit can accrue,
and we have no time to spare." Nevertheless some
who have penetrated into the fastness describe

their astonishment at the vast number of experi-
ments carried on, and we venture to think that in
exceptional cases great benefit would accrue from a
visit to such an establishment. The present number
is largely occupied with the description and illus-
tration of new Plums which have not as yet found
their way here, but which represent types of
Plums of totally different origin to our European
varieties.

Death through Lockjaw. — Mr. Wynne E.
Baxter, coroner, held an inquest recently, at
the London Hospital, on the body of William
Andrews, aged 15 years, a nurseryman's assistant,
late of 193, Higham Hill Road, Walthamstow.
The evidence showed that the deceased was
employed at Tricker's nursery, Walthamstow,
and called out to some painters who were working
there, " You lazy fellows." One of the painters
ran after the deceased, who caught his foot in the
frame of a greenhouse, and fell to the ground on
some broken glass, sustaining a cut on the knee.
This did not appear serious ; but on Thursday last
his neck and then his jaw became stiff, and death
took place from tetanus. The coroner remarked,
that'it was now a well-known fact that the tetanus
bacillus was found in the earth, and the mischief
was evidently done when the deceased fell to the
ground. A verdict of "Accidental death" was
returned.

Carnations in America.— We extract from
The Florists' Exchange some details relating to au
offer of 5000 dols. for a Carnation superior iu
quality to " Mrs. Thomas W. Lawson," the stock of
which was lately bought for 30,000 dollars.

"I hereby agree to pay over to the owner of the Carnal ion
which shall be adjudged to be equal to the Mrs. Thomas W.

Lawson Carnation tlir sum of Five Thousand Dollars (5,

dols.) upon the following terms and conditions : —

First.— The competition shall take plaee at the next annual
meeting of the American Carnation Society, to be held
February 16 and 17, 1899,

Second. — If lny prize is not awarded at this competition the
competition shall be renewed at the succeeding annual
meeting of this society in 1900, at which time, if my prize
has not been awarded, 1 reserve the right to withdraw my
offer.

Third. — The judges are to be three iu number, one selected
by the American Carnation Society, one selected by me, and
the third named by these two.

Fourth. — The pay ntof the prize of Five Thousand Dol-
lars (5,000 dols.) to be made by me to the successful compe-
titor upon the presentation i , by him or his duly

authorised agent, of the certificate of award and the transfer

to me of all plants owned or trolled by him ami a full title

to the ownership of the flower and the right to name it, or to
rename it if it lias already been named (that is, as it has been
said that 5,000 dols. is an enormous price to pay for any l Jar-
nation which has m>i alreadj be ne known and tai ;erj

advertised, it is understood and agreed by alt competitors,
that in the event of their being awarded the sum of 5,000 dols.,
they will part with their ownership in the name of the
winning Carnation, in other words I will not be offering a
premium of 5,000 dols. to destroy the large investment that I
have already made in the Carnation I now own, but instead
will be offering .r»,0O0 dols. for another Carnation the equal of
the one I now om n).

That no misunderstanding may arise as to my desire, I will
say.it is now my intention to present the -Mis. Thomas W.
Lawson Carnation to tic City of Boston, with a proper fund
for its propagation, for the benefit of her hospitals and public
institutions, and to also present In the same way and for the
same purpose the Carnation which I may acquire through this
competition.

Fifth.— The Carnation eligible for this competition most he
pink in colour.

Sixth.— Iu judging, I lie value of points must be in the
following order:—

First.— Colour (light pink, or what is known as tie ceri
shade, to he the starting or perfection point ; due weight is
to be given to the colour thai is most attractive ami brilliant
under artificial light ).

Second. — Size of flowers.

Third.— Length ami strength of stem.

Fourth.— Habit, calyx must not split, commercial value,
freedom from disease, propagation whether free, and freedom
of flowering.

Seventh. — Each lot foi competition must consist of one
hundred blooms."

Belgium on the Congo.— "The activity of

the Belgians has, says an Exchange, created in the
heart of the mysterious Dark Continent twenty-

four commercial companies, with a capital of about
£3,800,000. Belgian commerce, which in 1885 was
almost nil, amounted in 1897 to £500,000 for
exports from the Congo to Belgium, and to
£6,000,000 for imports from Belgium to the Congo,
or a commercial movement of £1,100,000. There
are few instances in the history of colonies of so
rapid a commercial development. The country is
hardly explored before merchants aud manufac-
turers come forward and found companies for the
building of new railways, create new plantations
for the numerous rich tropical products, raise
cattle, and build hotels and trading posts. In con-
sequence of the King's speech at Antwerp on
October 16 last, Belgian capitalists have become
interested in the project of establishing a line of
steamers between Antwerp and the Congo Free
State, to be manned and officered by natives of the
country. The idea, as reported, is to put shares on
the market at such a rate that the people will be
able to subscribe for them ; and it is confidently ex-
pected that there will soon be a considerable increase
in the Belgian merchant marine. The number of
Belgian inhabitants, according to a late estimate, is
1060 ; acres cultivated by the State, 24,710 ; under
concession to private parties, 79,072,000; Coffee-
trees, 4,000,000; Cacao-trees, 125,000; Tobacco-
plants, 76,000; steamships ou the Upper Congo,
41 ; tonnage, 1060."

autumn Coloration of Leaves. — In a
recent number of Nature, Mr. E. Overton notes
that he observed the leaves of ilydrocharis morsus-
ranae, or frog-bit, to become of a reddish-brown
colour when placed for some days in a weak solu-
tion of cane-sugar. Tiie colour is due to the
appearance of red cell-sap in the palissade cells
and iu the cells lining the air chambers of the leaf.
This rod coil-sap occurs normally in the tissues
of the plant, especially when exposed to the sun
ami to a concurrently low temperature; but is
much more abundantly produced when the plants
are cultivated iu sugar solutions. Mr. Overton
concluded from these experiments, and from the
observation of autumnal leaves in Switzerland, that
an increase of sugar at the cost of starch might be
one of the factors concerned in the production of
red pigment. LlDFORSS has shown that during the
wiuter the leaves of our native plants are devoid
of starch, Imt contain much sugar. The red colour-
i og matters are probably of the nature of glucosides,
and are in most cases unions of tannin compounds,
with sugar. The climatic conditions of autumn —
viz., bright light, and relatively low temperature —
favour the production of the pigment. It is possible,
says Mr. Overton, to produce red tints at any
time of the year by feeding them with glucose,
but only in those cases where the colour is in the
cut ral cells of the leaf. Where the coloration is iu
the epidermis, experiments with glucose are unsuc-
cessful. Here is a fine field for experiment opened
up to the student, aud one the practical importance
of which is obvious.

TILLAGE. — The great advantage of tilling the
soil, says M. Deherain, is to assure the retention
iu the soil of reserve stores of moisture — moisture
which is necessary as the condition requisite for the
operation of the ferments which fix the nitrogen iu
the soil, and render it assimilable. Compiles Benelux,
February 20.

Societe ROYALE D'AGRICULTURE et de
BOTANIQUE DE Gand. — At a meeting of the above,
hold at Ghent, on March 6, the following awards
were made : — Certificates of Merit for Clivia
Madame Bral-Fortie, from M. B. Fortie ; Erioc-
nema Memoire de Madame Rigouts, from M. A.
Rigouts ; Eriocnema Brilliant, also from M. A.
Rigouts ; for a seedling Draeieua, from MM. de
Reuse Freres ; and for Dendrobium Wardianum
grandiflorum, from M. L. De Smet-Duvivier.
Certificates of Merit for cultivation and flowering
were awarded for Polygala Dalmaisiaua, from
M. E. Bedinghaus (a Vunanimite1) ; Acacia Sophorae,
Acacia rupicola, and Erica arborea, all from M.

March 18, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

171

E«. Bedinghaus (par acclamation) ; for Imantophyl-
lum Madame H. de Bisschop, from M. V. de
Bisschop (var acclamation) : for Odontoglossum
roseum, from M. L. de Smet-Duvivier ; Boronia
megastigma, from M. E. Bedinghaus ; and for
Acacia acinacea, also from M. E. Bedinghaus (par
acclamation). Certificates for novelty were awarded
for sport Azalea Petite Simone, from M. A.
Cardon ; and for Eriocnema Perfection, from
M. A. Kigouts (par acclamation). Certificates for
a good variety were allotted to Odontoglossum
Alexandra?, from M. le Comte J. de Hemptinne ;
and to Lycaste Skiuueri elcgantissima, from M.
J. de Cock. Honourable Mention was awarded
for Odontoglossum Haveolum, shown by M.
L. de Smet-Duvivier. Honourable Mention for a
good variety was awarded for Kentia robusta, from

Country Meeting at Bristol. — It has been
decided, on the iuvitation of the Somerset,
Gloucester, and North Wilts Provincial Com-
mittee, to hold the next country meeting at Bristol
on April 2h' and 27. The first day will be devoted
to papers and discussions, with a dinner iu the
evening ; the second day to excursions to various
places of interest in Bristol and its neighbourhood.
Full particulars will be issued a little later on.

New Orchids. — W. J. Klinge, Botanices
Doctor, has reprinted from the Transactions of the
St. /'< terSburg Gardt n, vol. xvi., a series of descrip-
tions of new Orchids, cultivated in the stoves of the
Imperial Botanic Garden. The new species figured
are Aerides siamense, t. 1, figs. 1 to 5 ; Catasetum
rostratum, t. 2, tig. 22 ; Cattleya bicolor var., t, 1,

could not say whether she had done so shortly
before either of the acute attacks here recorded.
The noxious plant, being now discarded, there was
no further return of the mischief, except on one
occasion, when from curiosity she held a leaf in
contact with her lips for a short time, soon after
which they, together with the point of the tongue,
swelled up for some hours. The important facts
remain to be added, that she had handled the plant
for one or two years before the first blistering of
the lips was experienced, whilst the rest of the
family had been unaffected by it, although a sister
was as much given to chewing the flowers as the
patient herself. Numerous cases in which this
irritant has produced similar, but rarely, if ever so
severe, effects as those observed in this case have
bseo recorded of late in both medical and lay

From " photograph by]

Fig. 58. — THK NARCISSUS harvest in siII.LV: preparing blossoms for the market.

[£. 11. Preston,, Penzawu.

MM. de Reuse Frtres. The jury hope to see
staged at the next meeting the collection of plants
imported from the Congo, by MM. Haes & Son, of
Saffelaere.

The Surveyors' Institution.— The next

ordinary general meeting will be held on Monday,
March 20, when a paper will be read by Col. (>. W.
Raikks (Fellow), on "The Report (No. 2) of the
Royal Commission ou Local Taxation, especially
dealing with Valuation and Rating iu respect of
Tithe Rent-Charge." The chair will be taken at
eight o'clock.

Proposed Special-Certificate Examinations,
1899. — Notice is also given that the next Special-
Certificate Examinations in Forestry, Sanitary
Science, Land-surveying and Levelling are pro-
posed to be held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and
Thursday, June 13, 14, and 15. Particulars of
these examinations can be obtained from the
Secretary.

fig. fi ; C. brasilieusis, t. 1, tigs. 7 and 8 ; Cirrhope-
talum ciliatum, t. 1, tig. 15; C. pileolatum, t. 1,
fig. 9; Cymbidium Queeneanum, t. 2, rig. 13;
Maxillaria guianeusis, t. 2, fig. 18; Microstylis
madagascarieusis, t. 2, fig. 20 ; Pleurothallis flaccida,
t. 3, fig. 35 ; Polystachya quinqueloba, t. 3, figs. .'50
and 31 ; Sarcanthus pendulus, t. 3, figs. 32 to 34 ;
Stanhopoa oculata var. coustricta, t. 2, tigs. 20 and
27 ; S. oculata var. geniculate, t. 3, fig. 2S ; Zygo-
petalum ovatilobum, t. 3, fig. 29; Habenaria
claviformis, t. 2, tig. 11 and 12; Maxillaria cepula
var. pallida, t. 2, tig. 17 ; Stanhopea intermedia,
t. 3, rigs. 23 to 25.

Primula obconica. — The following note is
taken from the paper of Dr. Kirk's in the Lancet of
March 4, referring to the irritant nature of this
plant: — "It turned out that my patient had
all along been cultivatiug and frequently handling
this plaut, and she stated that she had occasionally
chewed the (lowers and swallowed the juice, but

journals, and from these several sources the fol-
lowing facts stand out prominently :— (1), that the
effects are described as erysipelas, uticaria, but more
especially as eczema of the face and bands, some-
times attended with much swelling : (2), that some
constitutions are specially susceptible, while others
enjoy immunity ; and (3), that apparently the
majority of sufferers have been females, although
ou the latter point the evidence is not decisive.

THE NARCISSUS IN SCILLY.

In our issue for March 26, 1S98, we gave an
illustration of a Narcissus garden in one of the
Scilly Islands, showing a number of men and boys
engaged in gathering Narcissus blooms for market.
The illustration in the present issue (fig. 58) affords
an idea of the subsequent treatment of the cut
blooms previous to their being packed in wooden
boxes, containing a dozen or more bunches.

172

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[March 18, 1899.

It is the practice of the cultivators of these
flowers to gather them before they are fully
expanded, and to place them in vessels containing
water, which are stood in a building having a
temperature of about 50°, so as to force them to
expand.

The fact of this being doue without, as it were,
ageing the flower, enables it to remaiu in good
condition for a longer period of time than would be
the case if it expanded fully in a natural manner.

Home Correspondence.

THE BLACKBERRY AS A PROFITABLE FRUIT. —

In the January monthly number of Chambers'
Journal attention is drawn to the fact that the
common wayside berry has been successfully culti-
vated in various parts of England and Scotland, so
much so, that the fruit has found a place in the
fruiterers' shops, and a ready sale effected. A few
particulars are given as to the method of culture
adopted by Mr. Cabell at Larbet in Sutherland-
shire:— "Each bush is planted 3 feet from its fel-
lows, and trained on wires, which are fixed on
posts (j feet in height. There are two rows of
bushes, eacli 20 yards in length, and running north
and south, so that the sun can act equally on both
sides of the rows. At first little manure is needed,
but by the third year the plants will have reached
maturity, and can be treated more liberally."
From the two rows of bushes described there was
gathered in 1897 about 99 lb. of luscious fruit, and as
the weather last year was more favourable, the crop
may, no doubt, have been greatly increased. This
really looks as if the culture of the Blackberry
might be made a profitable industry. When we
think how hardy the plant is, and what tine crops
of fruit it will bear iu hedgerows and copses, where
it does not receive auy cultivation, and what line
fruit can be met with during a favourable summer
and autumn, it is not difficult to imagine that the
Blackberry might take a high place among our
cultivated fruits. Perhaps there is no fruit less
liable to the attacks of insects aud birds, and for
the space of three mouths— that is, through
August, September, aud October -fruit can be
gathered in prime condition. The Blackberry-bush
produces successive crops, which is more than cau
be said of a good many of our cultivated fruits.
Iustauces are not wanting of the improvement made
in the common Blackberry under cultivation, for,
given a congenial soil, the berries come of l.-.rge
size and fine quality, size in the fruit, and im-
provement in their flavour. Of European Black-
berries, R, laciniatus seems to do remarkably well
[R. laciniatus is British]. I remember some fifteen
years ago seeing a glorious bush of it at Castle
Ashby laden with fruit ; aud Mr. George Beech,
who was then the gardener there, stated that
it was invaluable to him in making up large
desserts. He was at the time gathering really
magnificent fruits, but he cultivated it well. I
often wonder this fine Blackberry is not more
grown by gardeners. When cultivated, it is found
to bear earlier than the bushes iu the hedgerows.
Kittaating and Wilson, Jun., are earlier still in
bearing, and the former is perhaps the best
flavoured, while it is of a robust constitution, and
the core to the fruit is not so large as that of
Wilson, Jun. S. D.

PASSIFLORA RACEMOSA. — I recently noted a
liru specimen of this charming species in capital
condition in the gardeu of F..C. Stoop, Esq., West
Hall, ByHeet. The plant was trained on wires
attached to the roof, and extended the full length
of the house, about 2.5 feet. It was a mass of
Mowers and Hower-buds. The gardener, Mr. Car-
penter, considers it one of the finest plants for a
cool-house, as it is almost continually in flower,
and the cut blossoms are useful for indoors decora-
tions. The flowers are of a deep red colour, large
in size, aud borne in terminal pendulous racemes.
Although not suitable for small glasshouses, unless
much pruned, it deserves mention by reason of its
attractive colour, free flowering, and the ease with
which it may be grown. When planted out in
turfy loam, peat, and sharp sand, it grows quickly,
soon covering a large area. Propagation is by
means of cuttings of the young shoots, taken in the
spring, with a heel attached, and struck in a close
frame or under a bell-glass in moderate heat. This
speciesis a native of Brazil, introduced from thence
in 1815. A synonymous name adopted by some

authorities is that oflfPassiflora Tpriueeps, under
which it was described by Loddiges iu his Botanical
Cabinet, p. 84. E. S.. Woking.

AVENUE TREES.— A stately avenue is usually
an admired feature in a gentleman's demesne, or
being a public road ; but this mode of planting is
not favoured by present-day landscape gardeners.
I remember seeing a few years ago an avenue of
Populus alba on the Earl of Pembroke's estate,
near Salisbury — an avenue worth walking a good
many miles to see, aud one that is probably un-
rivalled in this country. Not many miles distaut,
near Romsey, a fine aveune of Elms may. be seen.
An avenue, if the trees planted suit the use and the
soil, is a desirable feature, and wdien it forms the
road to the residence, the importance of the latter
is enhanced. In well-timbered parts an avenue
may seem out of place ; on the other hand, if big
timber is scarce, and there is no fine scenery to
preserve, then. I think, an avenue is an improve-
ment. It is important not to plant the trees
nearer to the sides of a road than 10 feet, especially
if Conifers are chosen for forming the avenue.
Most deciduous trees have a good length of clear
stem, and some planters like to see this class of tree,
when grown up a good height, meet across the
road, and so form a leafy cauopy ; and to enable
this canopy tc form early, the trees could lie
planted nearer to the roadside. I would recom-
mend the distance apart to be 24 feet for the Coni-
fers, and 18 feet for the deciduous class, more or
less accordingly, as the natural habit is spreading
or compact. As good aveuue trees I may mention
Horse - Chestnut, Pavia, Limes, especially the
American ; the wild Cherry (Gean), very desirable
on account of its masses of white flowers iu the
spring, and the rich bronzy leaves iu autumn— it
is like the Beech in the counties of Oxford,
Berks, and Bucks, or wdierever the soil is chalky,
Among Conifers are Cedars Deodara, atlantica and
Libani, Abies uobilis glauca, Pinus austriaca, Abies
Nordmanniaua. Conifers, if they are to live long,
need a deep loamy soil. Other species often planted
are Araucaria imbricata, Sequoia sempervireus. S.
gigantea, aud Crvptomeria japouiea, and iu good,
well-drained soils, they are eminently satisfactory
trees. A.J. /.., Wyfold Court.

the dropmore DOUGLAS fir.— Your corres-
pondent, "E. W. B.," is in error iu stating the
Douglas Fir at Dropmore to have been raised from
a cutting. The late Mr. Frost has left the history
of the tree in his own writing: — " The seed that
produced this tree was sent from the Horti-
cultural Society to LordGrenville about mid-winter
1827-2S, by tl«e name of Abies taxifolia. " Probably
" E. W. B." has confused this with some other
tree, unless, which is probable, he fell a victim to
one of my worthy predecessor's waistcoat-pocket
stories, which he was so fond of relating in
characteristic style. C. II.

GARDENERS' BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. — For
fully forty years past I have been permitted to
read regularly the pages of the Garth tins' t 'lnonidi :
I cau honestly say that up to now no article printed
therein has seemed to me so well timed, sympa-
thetic, and logically written for the purpose
intended as the one by Mr. Owen Thomas, at
p. 152, referring to the above-named Institution.
In my opinion it should be printed with good type
in letters of gold, by the thousand, then framed,
and hung up in every gardener's cottage and bothy
in the three kingdoms. Few gardeners cau have
more respect for gardeners and horticulturists
as a body than myself. I must add that I think it
somewhat of a blot on their otherwise fair fame
that hundreds, if uot thousands, more of the gar-
dening fraternity do not support the Institution in
question. Having had my say in your columns
some years since, I will, with your permission, only
add this thought now. Is it not possible to get
the wives, sisters, aud daughters of gardeners to
interest themselves generally in this matter, as
some few do now ? What I would suggest is. that
every gardener's cottage in the couutry should
possess a plain, neatly-made box, with "Garden
Charities" stamped upon it in good bold letters.
Into this box the female who presides over the
household might put in a small sum weekly, as
opportunity offered. The box could be opened
annually when the time for paying subscriptions
arrives. As a rule, the amount necessary to make
these up would not be large, and not prove a serious
drain on the amount at hand for general household

expenses. Having had a fairly large family to
bring up and educate, with the too often unavoid-
able expenses of illness, &e. , I have known some-
thing of this difficulty. Sixpence per week put on
one side, as I suggest, would pay the annual sub-
scription to both the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent
Institution and its close relative the Royal Gar-
deners' Orphan Fund. To those of my brothers of
the craft who may not be in a position to spare the
whole amount at once, I respectfully commend
this suggestion, and would ask them, in ail
good faith, to bring it to the notice of their
wives, • daughters, or sisters, as the case may be.
It only requires the will to begin, the rest is
certain to foDow. Henry J. Clayton, Crimeton
Gardens. Tat/caster.

MR. dibbens' potatos.— As the Winchester

raiser of Potatos appraises the merit of his seed-
lings, it may be suggested that he send at once
some twenty tubers of a few of his best to Cbis-
wick for trial this season. He may be assured
that if sent there they will receive every attention,
and be estimated by the Fruit Committee when
seen in the autumn with the utmost fairness and
impartiality. The Committee have no partialities,
and treat everybody's product with equal courtesy.
» >f course, it does frequently happen that what seem
to be swans in one place are, when tested with t he 1 lest
at Chiswick, but ordinary ducks. Mr. Dibbens
may take it for granted that although some hasty
persons have drawn false conclusions from state-
ments of the President of the Koyal Horticultural
Society not long- since, that the gardeu was ex-
hausted ; and though that is to some extent atmos-
pherically true, yet the soil is not at all ex-
hausted ; and last year, in spite of the drought, it
produced some grand crops of Potatos, better than
which 1 have never seen. We specially want to
see how these Winchester seedlings come through
the disease ordeal. So far no variety has yet
proved itself to be absolutely disease-resisting, but
mauy have proved to be comparatively so, anil in
that respect there has been great gain, which if all
Mr. Dibbens tells us be true, may be materially
added to. A. D.

CHOISYA TERNATA.— This beautiful evergreen
shrub gives promise, owing probably to the
abnormal heat of last summer, of a more than
usual abundance of bloom. Almost every shoot
is set at the point with flower buds. An attractive
subject at any season, but especially so during the
mouths of May and June, when bedecked with its
sweet scented white blossoms, the merits of this shrub
deserve that itshould be grown more commonly in the
South of England and other warm localities where
the climate is suitable. In these parts it looks
charming iu the form of a bush in corners and
angles of buildings, also trained ou warm walls
where it attains a height of more than six feet.
It grows well in any free garden soil, but iu soils
of a heavier nature, planting iu a compost of loam,
peat, aud sand, is recommended. Young plants
cau be quickly raised from cuttings, which root
readily on a mild, hot bed. James Baxter.

GALANTHUS MELVILLEI.— In my remarks upon
Snowdrops on p. 129, I accidentally omitted any
reference to one of the finest of our varieties of
Galanthus nivalis. This is the variety Melvillei,
which is very line in every way, and can hardly be
excelled for its beauty. Whether it is due to the
■ lunate or soil, it appears to be even liner at
Dunrobiu C istle than with us iu the South-west of
Scotland. Mr. D. Melville very kindly sent me
some flowers from Dunrobin, aud their beauty
surpasses that of auy flowers I have had here of
the same variety. S. Arnutt, Garsethom, by Dum-
frit s, N.B.

New Invention,

Our illustration (lig. 59, p. 173), shows a new
device, patented by the l!ev. E. Darnley Smith,
of Landscove Vicarage, Ashburton, for protecting
ripening fruit from the attacks of birds, wasps,
snails, and other injurious creatures. The pro-
tector is made of celluloid-uettiug, so that it
is very light and neat in apperanee and free
from smell. The figure shows a form adapted
for Pears, but others of different sizes and pat-
terns are manufactured for Peaches, Grapes,

March IS, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

173

and other fruits. The protector is made in two
halves with a hinged-joint so that it can readily be
applied to the fruit without risk of undue handling
or bruising. When placed in position, it may be
suspended from the branch, and the appliance closed
by clamps fixed to the edges. It can, of course, be
utilised for a variety of purposes, one of which may
be the protection of (lowers that have been cross-
fertilised and from which it is essential to exclude
insects.

Though the material is nearly as light as muslin,
it admits as much or even more light to the fruit,
and it is, of course, much more durable. We are
informed that trials have been made with the
protectors for the last three years, and that they
have been continuously exposed in all kinds of
weather, fierce sun and heavy winter-rains, without
injury. We ought to add that the material is
readily inflammable, and we have known aerious
accidents arise from this circumstance, but the
risk in this particular instance is small, unless
perhaps from lightning where walls are wired.
The cost will vary from about 24s. per gross for
Peaches, aud to 30s. per gross for Pears. The

liabilities amouuting to CI 150, and assets expected
to produce £686 lis. 5(2., from which i'3'2 I9s. 6d.
had to be deducted for the claims of preferential
creditors payable in full, leaving nett assets at
£653 lis. lid. , and showing a deficiency of
£463 13s. lOd. Replying to questions put by Mr.
Hough, senior official receiver, the debtor stated
that he had failed on a previous occasion iu 1882 or
1883, and lie had not obtained his discharge under
those proceedings.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

March 14. — No* For some years has a meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society been held in such wretched weathet as
was the case on Tuesday last. The fog that on Monday w:is

ifflcienl t ake London unpleasant, developed intoa

tin ]., 'irn>,- sheet, that did nol lifl during the whole of Tues.

day. It was darn ei gh out-of-doors, but the interior of the

Drill Hall was so obscure that ii was quite aa Mini, -nil to
inspect tin- exhibits as we have ever known it to beat the

FlO. 5i». —A PATENTED

'ROTECTOn FOK RIPENING PEAKS, PEACHES,
(SEE P. 172.)

iTIIl.l; 11:1 I r.

price will vary according to the size of the
protectors aud the quality of the material
employed in their construction, but consider-
ing their durability it will doubtless be found
most economical to employ those of the best
quality.

It is stated that the ripening process is hastened
and the flavour enhanced. Similar appliances
made in paper will be utilised for the purpose of
packing fruits and flowers for exhibition or other
purposes.

Some specimens were exhibited before the Fruit
Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society on
Tuesday last, and no doubt iu the coming season
extensive trials will be made of them. The
apparatus is to be placed on the market, in
the first instance, through the agency of W. H.
Beck, Esq.. 115, Cannon St., London, ICC,
to whom application should be made.

Law Notes.

RE SOLON BENSON.
The public examination of this debtor took
place at the London Bankruptcy Court, before Mr.
Registrar Hope, upon a statement of affairs showing

Royal Aquarium. In spite of all this, the Hall was verj well
filled with a grand display of exhibits,a circumstance that
may In- explained by tin- fact that country exhibitors had no
idea of the kind of atmosphen into which they were bringing
their plants.

Orchids were very numerous, and as main as six Awards ol
Merit, ami three First-class Certificates were awarded to
novelties in these plants. The Floral Committee, though
recommending fewer awards, had to deal with a large number
of exhibits, including a very remarkable one from Captain
Holford, whose Hippenstrums were generally admired, and
thoroughly deserved thi i old Medal awanled to Captain
Holkokd. Several of Hie l[ nr), were

recommended Awards of Merit There were gay collec-
tions of Azaleas, Cyclamens, Camellias, Cinerarias, &c., a
lar i shi lit ol i iioi :e Fei ns, anil many miscellaneous exhibits
of a floral nature. The only other award toa novelty, how-
ever, was to a variety of Azalea mollis from Messis. R, & 6.
Cuthbert.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee recommended a First-
i i i tificate to Apple Allen's Everlasting, and an Award of
Merit to Apple Barnack Beauty, in the latter ease to mark
the worth ot the variety as a market Apple. Several collec-
tions of fruits and other interesting exhibits were staged.

The lecture was one bj Mr. Spencer Pickering, who,

described tie nature of ti xperiments in relation to fruit

culture, now being conducted on tin- estate of the Duke of
Bedford, at Woburn.

Floral Committee.

Present: Chas. E. Shea, Esq., Chairman; and Messrs.
Chas. T. Druery, II. II. May, R. Dean, R. Wilson Ker, Win.
Howe, Thos. Peed, Chas. E. Pearson, J. W. Ban. J. D, Pawle,

Geo. Gordon, E. H. Jenkins, C. R. Fielder, E. T. Cook, 0.
Blici, D. B. Crane, Jas. Walker, H. J. Jones, Ed. Mawley,
J. Fraser, Chas. Jeffries, and W. Marshall.

Mr. Jno. R. Box, West Wickham and Croydon, showed a
group of Cinerarias, nice dwarf plants, well flowered, and of
distinct and rich eolours (Bronze Floral Medal).

Messrs. J. Hill & Sons. Lower Edmonton, contributed a
large group of choice Ferns, all of t lain tinted or variegated
varieties. We noticed a cream variegated variety of Pteris
serrulata cristata, and ol Pteris cretica, some very well
i ol mred plants of Pteris arguta, and of pteris tricolor. The
tinted \d rant u in-, in a number of vai ieties would have made a

line display in better light; indeed, the entire exhilnt was one

that suffered terribly in effect from the extreme darkness in

the building (Silver Banksian Medal).

The St. Georue's Nursery Comp any, llanwell, Middlesex,
again made a magnificent display with a very fine strain ul
Cycl i m, ns. The plants were better flowered than when shown

on the last occasion, but in other res] tfi wire very similar

(Silver Flora Medal).

Messrs. U. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate, showed a floral
picture- of Azalea mollis and A. sinensis hybrids. This exhibit
tilled the greater part of one of the central tables, and was
composed of abundantly flowered plants of exquisitely tinted
varieties, but few of the seedlings were named. A, mollis,
Geo. Cuthbert, apricot coloured, with deeper spots, was
very pretty, six new varieties of Hyacinths werecontni nted
by the same lirm (Silver Flora Medal).

Mes-rs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, exhibited a group

of plants ol Deutzia Lemoinei — D. gracilis, and D. i an Iflorn

'■ , Aug 5, 1893, p. 153). It

is a verj pleasins plant when seen, as on this occasion,

covi n 'I w ith ro oil- ol blooms ol the purest white.

Messrs. sjMiiin Co. again displayed plants of Acalypba
liispida, Dracaena Sanderiana, and a plant in flowet ol
ll.emaiithiis cinnabarinus superba.

iiiemost remarkable exhibit before the Floral Committee
wasan immense group ol Hippeastrums from Captain Hol-
ford, Westoni.irt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire (gr., Mr. A. (hap
man). One half of one of the long central tables was thickly
furnished with them, ami it was said thai the plants bad
been selected from a collection of 2000 plants, 1500 of which
are now in flower. The collection was remarkable from many
ilnts. The plants were most healthy-looking, aid
the flower-scapes ol great strength, most of them bearing

""e' ie flowers, The I. loans generally were very

size, and the colours bright and very effective. In a
leu of the varieties only could am trace be seen of the green
throat iliat was once so characteristic of the Hippeastrum.

fhen were self-coloured flowers, others with a very pr inent

white band through each segment ; also flaked and mottled

flowers. A considerable variety or form could also be

observed in the collection. Several ot the best of the

- are described below as obtaining awards, but it.

Wollhl be easy to make the selection a much larger one. A
Gold Medal Mas awarded tO Captain II to I his

exhibit, which was probably the best collection of Hippeas
triiiiis ever shown by an amat< m .

A slender and d nail' growing white-Mow, redCalla, known as
I'eih von Stuttgart, was shown h\ Mr W. PpiTZER, Stutt-
gart, but how ii di timed toa,, " Little Gem " is not appan i i
and a plant of Corylopsis pauciflora En flower was show,,

by Messrs 1'ai i 4 Son, Wallham Cross Nurseries,

Messrs. Barh & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, shownl
a table oi Narcissus, Helleborus in variety, Chionodtx

Cyclamen species, Anei ic, Tnlipa l.eicht lini, l.aehenah. s,

and a particularly vivid crimson-flowered Primula sinens f.
(A Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. H. B. Mat, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton,
N., show,-,! potted Clematis in six varieties, viz., I. or-1 Londes-
borough, Lady Londesborough, a pale variety ; Sir Garnet
Wolseley, purplish-lilac, one of the best ; Fair Rosamond,
rather shrubby in habit, and free, whit* with a carmine stupe
on each petal ; Miss Batemnn, a white Bower; Mrs. Qnilter,
also white. All of these were small examples, trained in each
case to aii upright stick, and more or less abundantly
bloomed. They had been, as we were told, brought on quit

' I in a vinery. Besides these, there were four nice pi: nts

of Acalypha hispida (Sanderiana). A Silver Flora Medal was
awarded.

Me. sis. W. 1'u'i. & Son, The Nurseries, Waltham Cross,
showed, as on a recent occasion, a tine assortment of Camellia
japonica, in large and small examples, most profusely flowered,
besides ten -how boxes containing two dozen blooms apiece,
and all of them in the best condition. C. Mathiotianr
alba, Pride of Waltham, flesh colour; Montironi, and Donna
Maria Pia, a flower of the palest flesh tint, may be regarded as
the pick of tin- varieties shown. A Silver-gilt Flora Medal
was awarded.

Messrs. Thos. Cripps & Son, Tunbridge Wells, exhibited a
small group of early-flowering Clematis in pots, and a large
number of cut blooms of the same in much variety of colours
in boxes tilled with moss (a Bronze Flora .Medal was awarded).

Mr. G. Mount, Exotic and Rose Nurseries, Canterbury,
showed two boxes filled with most admirable Roses, consist-
ing of H. T.'s ami H. P.'s, ami a number of Roses was shown
cut with long stalk and stuck into bottles. These consisted
of Mrs. John Laing, Niphetns, Captain Haywood, &c.(a Silver-
gilt Banksian Medal wasawarded .

Messrs. Jas. Veitcb .v Son-. Royal Exotic Nurseries,
Chelsea, showed plants in flower of M. Lemoine's Deutzia, D.
hybrida Lemoinei, also of a variety of Azalea mollis, known
as Alphonse Lavallee, with orange-coloured flowers, with pale
centres; also the curious Azalea linearifolia, with its rose-
coloured thread-like petals ; Spirrea confusa, &c. Also four

174

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 18, 1899.

varieties of Ilippeastrums of much merit, and a very fine
plant of Cliveia Orion.

AWARDS.

Hippeostrum Murelli. — A large and well-formed flower nf
deep crimson, having an unusual amount of substance in the
segments. The scape bore four flowers. From Capt. Hol-
ford (Award of Merit).

H. Apple-blossom.— The ground colour of flower is white, the
segments having usually a broad stripe of white in the centre,
and flaked and coloured with bright red. From Capt. Hol-
ford (Award of Merit).

//. Robin.— A fine crimson flower, with white in throat ;
substance very good. From Capt. Holford (Award of
Merit).

H. Virginia. — A light-coloured variety, in which white is
feathered sparsely with red. From Capt. Holford (Award
of Merit).

Azalea Mollis Purity. — A lemon-eoloured variety of much
attractiveness. From Messrs. R. & G. Ccthbert, Sonthgate
(Award of Merit).

Orchid Committee.

Present : Harry .1. Veitch Esq.., in the Chair ; and Messrs.
J. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De B. Crawshay, J. Colman, H. Little,
F. Sander, A. Outrara, H. J, Chapman, W. H. Young, H.
Ballantine, E. Hill, H. T. Pitt, J. Jaqucs, W. H. Protheroe,
C. Winn, J. Gurney Fowler, T, W. Bond, W. H. White, and
S. Courtauld.

Like the last meeting, the show was held in foggy weather,
but so far from interfering with the display other than render-
ing examination difficult, even with the full lighting power of
the Hall, a more than usually fine collection of Orchids was
staged. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart, Burford (gr., Mr.W. H.
White), made a very effective display, the whole of the exhibits
being characterised by vigorous health and profuse flowers. Of
the specimens very remarkable for their fine culture were
Brasso-Cattleya-Lielia x Lindleyana with twenty-nine flowers,
the rare Ccelogyne conferta (Cultural Commendation), with a
profusion of bloom ; a noble example of Dendrobium x
Burfordiense, covered with its showy rose-tinted blooms ;
fine forms of Masdevallia Harryana and M. ignea, a few noble
examples of Odontoglossuin crispum, that named maculosum
being profusely spotted like 0 Wilckeanum, a charming
example of the white and violet Epidendrum Endresii and
another of its hybrid E. x elegantulum ; Cymbidium
eburneum, with many large white flowers ; and a fine lot of
Calanthe Sanderiana, which made a separate group. Other
remarkable things were Spathoglottis Lobbi, with several
spikes ; the singular blue flowered natural hybrid, Vanda x
Moorei (KimballianunixcoTUlea); Chysis x Chelsoni, Bulbo-
phyllum barbigernm, with a long raceme of its sensitive
feathery flowers; Dendrobium x Wigania xanthochilum,
clear yellow, with purple disc, very superior to the original ;
D. x Juno, Ccelogyne pulchella, Spiranthes colorata For.
getiana; two examples of Cypripedium x hirsuto-Sallieri,
differing much in colour ; Galeandra devoniana ; Cypripe-
dium x Alice, fine Cattleya Triann-i, &c. A Silver-gilt Flora
Medal was awarded.

To Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Staines (gr., Mr. II.
Ballantine), a Silver Flora Medal was awarded for a small but
select collection of Odontoglossums, including the still best
purple-blotched form, O, Pescatorei Veitchianum ; the equally
rare O. Leeanum, with a noble spike of sixty-two flowers ; fine
forms of O. Wilckeanum, O. luteo-purpureum, &c.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, King's
Road, Chelsea, staged a fine group, in which were some new
and very rare hybrids. Of the former were Phalsenopsis x
Hermione, a very remarkable Hower, resemblingP. x Mrs. Jas.
Veitch, but densely spotted with rose colour ; P. x Cassandra
(Stuartiana <J, rosea 9), with blush-white flowers and bright
rose lip; and Sophro-Lieliaxlacta superba, a better form of
the original, with reddish-rose flowers. Of better-known
things, one of the most interesting was a fine form of
Phalsenopsis Aphrodite, raised from true seed sown in 1SS'2, and
giving another example of the utility of raising desirable
species usually imported. Also in the group, prominent were
Cattleya x intertexta, several Lielio-Cattlcya x Nysa, Epi-
phronitis x Veitchi, Dendrobium x Euryalus, D. subclau-
sum, Epidendrum Wallisii, E. x elegantulum, spikes of the
brilliant scarlet E. x O'Brienianum superbum, Calanthe
x gigas, Phaio-Calanthe x Niobe, Cymbidium x ebnrneo-
Lowianum, Phalsenopsis rosea leucaspis, &c. A Silver Flora
Medal was awarded.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Heaton, Bradford, had a grand
group, for which a Silver-gilt Flora Medal was awarded. The
main feature in it was about forty-five specimens of the noble
Phaius x Norman (Sanderianus x tuberculosus) which is
perhaps the highest example to be obtained in its section.
The plants bore a number of spikes of very large flowers,
varying in the tint of the sepals and petals from pale yellow
to copper colour and reddish-rose, and in the colouring of the
lip from rosy-purple to dark claret- purple. All the forms
may well be called florists' flowers of great beauty.

A series of nice forms of Lycaste Skinneri, including the
best white form, the brightly coloured Dendrobium x Sibyl,
still the only D. bigibbum cross-proved ; the chaste D. x
Doris, some specimens of D. infuudibnlum covered with
flowers, Cypripedium Youngianum, Oakwood variety, a noble
flower; fine forms of Odontoglossum crispum, O. Edwardi,
Cattleya Triansei, Cypripedium xDoncasterianum, &c, were
among the plants shown.

W. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone, Staffordshire
(gr., Mr. Stevens), showed Odontoglossum crispum Duke of
York, a very large flower, profusely spotted with rose-purple.

J. Leemann, Esq., West Bank House, Heaton Mersey (gr.,
Mr. Edge), showed Odontoglossum crispum, Mis. .1. Lee-
mann a very remarkable variety, distinct in the peculiar
arrangement of its bright reddish-brown spotting on the
French-white ground colour of the flower, and in their more
dense arrangement on the flower-spike. The general appear-
ance of the flower suggested a very large finely-spotted O.
Andersonianum, but the crest denoted typical O. crispum.
Mr. Leemann also showed a tine form of Zygopetalum ■.
Perrenoiiili.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, staged a
good group, remarkable for the fine varieties of Cattleya Triansei
and with them forms of Cypripedium iusigne, including C. i.
Sandera?, good Odontoglossum crispum, O. Halli, O. Pesca-
torei, Dendrobium Wardianum, with very fine flowers ; D.
crassinode, Laelia harpophylla, L. glauca and L. cinnabarina,
Lycaste Skinneri alba, Miltonia Roezli, Oneidium splen-
didum, Cochlioda Noczliana, &c. A Silver Banksian Medal
was awarded.

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Victoria and Paradise
Nurseries, Upper Holloway, staged an effective group, in
which were good examples of Cypripedium x Pitcherianum,
Williams' var., C. X Winnianum, C. X grandiflorum, Wil-
liams'var., C. X Hanislanum X Sallieri Hyeanum, C. B ix-
alli nlgrescens, C. X euryandrum, C. villosum, C. x ver-
nixium, Dendrobium Wardianum giganteum, and two white
varieties of it ; Cattleya Schrodera, Cymbidium eburneum, C.
Lowianum, varieties of Lycaste Skinneri, Ccelogyne cristata
alba, Odontoglossums, &c. A Silver Banksian Medal was
awarded.

M. Jules Hve-L Vsf.n. Coupure, Ghent (gr , Mr. Coen),
showed Cypripedium X (K lipe, a very handsome hybrid with
rose-coloured upper sepals, banded with white ; O. x
virginale "Venus," a fine large pure white ; O. triumphans
nigrum, and others enumerated in the Lis' of Awards.

M. Chas. Marox, Brunoy, Seine-et-Oise, France, showed
Lalio-Cattleya x Iinperatrice de Russie (C. Mendeli 9, [..
Digbyana <S), a fine flower, equalling in beauty the fatuous
L.-C. Digbyano-Mossise, ami with a similarly fringed lip ; also
L -C. x Ernestine (O. Percivaliana 9, L.flava i) 'the typical
form, with yellow flower, tinged with rose colour.

De B. Crawshav, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks (gr., Mr. s.
Cooke), showed Odontoglossum Rossii Crawshayanum ; O. R.
rosefieldiense ; the fine 0. X Andersonianum Bogaerdianum,
and O. x excellens Crawshayanum.

Mr. John Stevens, Pope's Grove, Twickenham, showed
Odontoglossum x Murrellinnuin Stevensii.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co. showed a small group, in which
were the new Cypripedium x Furzeanum (callosum pnl-
cherrimum x hirsutissimum), a very pretty hybrid, with the
peculiar form of C. hirsutissiinmn in the petals, which were
shining clarel red, with darker spots, the whole flower
suffused with rose-colour; the pretty Phaius X Joiceyanus

(Blllmei ■ amabilis), very quaintly marked; line forma of

Cattleya Triansei, Odontoglossum x Mulus, Dendrobium
Wardianum, of a very large type, &c.

Welbore S. Ellis, Esq., Hazelbourne, Dorking (gr., Mr.
Barrel!) showed Odontoglossum Pescatorei, Ellis's var. a g I

purple-spotted form, and (). >. Alidersonialium Ilazcllionnii-

var. a very showy flower.

J. F. Elmer Esq., Beckenham(gr., Mr. Waite), showed well-
bloomed varieties of Cypripedium villosum, &r. J. 'I'.
Gabriel, Esq., Streatham Hill, sent a very large form of
Dendrobium Wardianuml W. I'. Burkiushaw, Esq., Hes-de,
Hull, sent Dendrobium ■ Hessleiense (Findlayanuin x splen-
didissum grandiflorum).

AWARDS.

Lcelio-Cattleya X Imperatrice tie Russie (p. Mendeli V, /..

Digbyana) li Mr. ('has. Maron, Brunoy, France. Flower

very large; white, delicately tinged with rnse-pink. Lip
heavily fringed like L.-C, >. Digbyano-Mossios (First-class
Certificate).

Odontoglossom crispum ' Sultan ' from M. Jules Hve-Lei six,
Ghent (gr., Mr. Coen). Nearest to O. c. Sanderianum, floweVs
heavily marked with red-brown over the greater part of
their surface (First class Certificate).

Odontoglossom crispum 'Duke of York' from W. Thomson,
Esq., Stone, Stafford (gr., Mr. W. Stevens). A line large
white Hower evenly spotted with rather small purplish rose
spots (First-class Certificate).

Odontoglossum. X excellens Hyeanum, from M. Joi.es Hve-
LiEYSKN. A very large pale yellow flower richlv spotted
(Award of Merit).

^ Odontoglossum i rispum ' Mrs. I. Leemann,' from J. Leem isn,
Esq., West Bank House, Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr. Edge). A
distinct novelty with French-white flowers evenly spotted
with red-brown in a manner seen in fine forms of o. x Ander-
sonianum (Award of Merit).

Dendrobium x Wiganiie xanthochilum (signatum x nobile),
from Sir Tre\or Lawrence, Bart, (gr., Mr. W. H. White).'
This was raised at Burford, and the flowers are of better
shape ami brighter yellow than the original (Award of
Merit).

Masdevallia ignea Boddaertlana, from Sir Trevor Law.
rence. Flowers He- largest of any variety of the species,
suffused with bright reddish-scarlet (Award of Merit .

Cypripedium .. Talisman (Sallieri Hyeanuin Harrisia-
1111,11 superbum), from M, Jii.es live Levsen. A very line

dark form, with distinct traces of C. x Harrisianuin
superbum (Award of Merit).

Phalsenopsis x Hermione ( ? Stuartianum x Luddemanni-
anum) , from Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Son. Flowers almost identi-
cal with P. x Mrs. J. Veitch, illustrated in Gardeners' Chronicle,
but densely spotted and tiDged with rose (Award of Merit)
Phalsenopsis x Cassandra (rosea 9, Stuartiana rf), from
Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Son. Of the P. x intermedia class
Flowers blush-white, with dark rose lip (Award of Merit.)

Snphrohclia x L. laeta superba (S. grandiflora x L.
Dayaua), from Messrs. Jas. Veiich & Son. Flower finer than
the original reddish rose with purple lip (Award of Merit. )

Odontoglossum Mirandum and Ccelogyne pulchella from
Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (Botanical Certificates).

Narcissus Committee.

Present:: Rev. G. H. Engleheart, chairman; Mr. C. R.
Scrase-Dickens, Secretary ; Miss Willmott, Messrs. J. H. de
Graafl, J. Walker, A. Kingsmith, W. Ware, P. Barr, R. Syden
ham, and others

The promise of an early season has proved faithless in the
Narcissi as in other departments. The mild winter scarcely
compensated for the unusually late start of the bulbs into
root-growth in summer and autumn, 189S, attributable to the
long drought. The winter months, too, were deficient in
bright sun, and the cold nights of late have been a check.
No open-air flowers came before the committee.

Messrs. Barr sent an interesting set of Dutch-raised
hybrids between poeticus ornatus and various Polyanthus
Narcissi, their main value being that of greater hardiness
than N. Tazetta, derived from the poeticus. One of the best
had trusses of three flowers approaching the poeticus in size.
As the plants were in pots, the committee recommended a Vote
of Thanks, and desired to-see the strain again from the open
ground. Messrs. Barr were also awarded a Banksian Silver
Medal for a well-grown group of p it-Narcissi in variety. The
white Madame De Graatf was especially well shown, and the
line new bicolor Victoria seems better adapted for forcing than
the older kinds.

Fruit Committee.

Present:— Geo. Bunyard, Esq., Chairman; and Messrs.
Root. File, .las. Smith, Geo. Wythes, W. Pope, J. VV. Bates,
W. Iggulden, Alex. Dean, S. Mortimer, A. F. Barron, Jno!
llasliam, E. Shaw Blaker, and Jas II. Veitch,

Mr. John Watkins, Pomona Farm, Hereford, showed a
collection of seventy dishes of excellent Apples (Silver
Kniglitian Medal).

Mr. A. J. Thomas, Rodmersham, showed fifty dishes "or

culinary and dessert Apples, admirably kr ,l ,HV wen

developed fruits, with clear skins, plump, ami of high colour.
A Silver Knightian Medal was awarded.

A Siakalc named Rus.-eb'. "Solid Iviry" was shown
by Mr. .1. Russell, Richmond; evidently what h known as
Ivory-white, a capital lot of heads (Vote of Thanks).

H. A. Blvth, Esq., Swansteal lions,-. Swanstead (gr Mr
Barker), showed fair-sized, ripe fruits of th ■ Tree-Tomato,
Cyphomandra belaeea.

Good examples of the seldom-seen Barnack Beauty Apple
were shown by Mr. Gilbert, gr. at Dykebourue House
Line ilnshire.

Mi. .1. Masterton, gr. to Lord Cahjperiiown, Weston House
3hipston-on-Stoiir, showed six fruiti of Uvedale's St. Ger-
n.inis, slowing Pear, fine examples, and well kept (Cultural
Commendation). A line large fruit of a crimson cheek -u the
sunny side, and evidently it is a long-keeping variety
Award of Merit). He also showed Apple All m's Everlast-
ing, Blenheim Pippin, and Royal Rus.-e .

Mr. Crook, gr., Forde Abbey, Chard, showed a dish ,,
Sturmer Pippin Apple (Vote of Thanks).

Various dishes of Apples were shown for name or honours
but nothing which calls lor special comment.

Mi. .Masterton, gr., Weston House, showed half-a-dozen
very line examples of Onion Ailsa Craig, receiving a cultural
commendation. Some fine Leeks were shown by Mr. J
Cocks, Peterborough.

A dish ot a new seedling kidney Potato was shown by
Leopold Solomons, Esq., Norbury Park, Dorking (gr., M r.
(!. Kent).

Lecture.

THE EXPERIMENTS AT WOBURN.

In the afternoon a lecture was delivered by .Mr. Spencer
Pickering. F.B.S., upon "The Duke of Bedford's Experi-
ments at Woburn; their object and method."

Mr. Pickering commenced by explaining away the fallacy
thai there can exist any real antagonism between science and
practice, claiming that the geuuine scientific worker of
th.- present day is essentially a practical labourer. It was the
ideal of ti„. scientific worker of the present day to lessen the
distance that lies between the cultivator and the results the
filter seeks to obtain; to devise easier and quicker methods.
Theory without practice, or practice without reflection, and
consequent theory, is not satisfactory.

Mr. Pickering, in referring to the fact that in the case oi
agriculture, scientilic experiment and research had been em-
ployed to a much greater degree than had as yet been attempted
in the case of horticulture, said that in horticulture or fruit-
growing there were many difficulties that did not present
themselves to the scientific agriculturist. In conducting expe-
riments, it was very necessary that a large numberof plants or
trees be subjected to them, or the results would be worthless.
Then arose the question of space, for one tree covered a large
a portion or laud compared with a plant of Wheat, Barley
or Ttuuirs Xhcu the length of life of a fruit-tree was

March IS, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

175

another difficulty, because the value of experiments would
be small if they were only concerned with a few years growth.
But many other difficulties were enumerated by Mr. Pickering
relating to the lar^e number of varieties there are of fruits,
and to the question of pruning, differences of soil, climate,
andseason, of which latter the lecturer gave an instance in
the case of Strawberries, one variety in one season being very
prolific, whilst it was quite the reverse in another season, when
some other variety took the lead. Such difficulties, however,
said Mr. Pickering, should not prevent the carrying ou( ofsuch
experiments as the Duke of Bedford had commenced. Results
are, of course, comparative, and Mr. Pickering stated thai in
an experiment it was necessary that the treatment afforded
should be modified from the normal in on»- particular only,
or there would be uncertainty in connecting effect with
cause.
For instance, the lecturer mentioned the experiments that

of smaller ones but of the same weight in bulk ? If so, how
much better?

Testing of Varieties.

Experiments to test the varieties of fruits, said Mr. Picker,
ing, conducted at one spot only, such as Woburn, would have
no value, luit the result on tie ntrary would !"■ most mis-
leading. It varieties of Apples could be t.^ted satisfactorily,
and the present list enormously reduced, the person doing
this would be a public benefactor, but it would lie necessary
to possess experimental stations in many localities, and under
one organisation.

Pests am> Diseases,
said Mr. Pickering, were fortunately not productive of the
amount of injury in this country that was the case in some
of our colonies, and in America. The only pest that had 50
far troubled them seriously al Wnlmru was the lilack Currant-
iiuie, which, said Mr. Pickering, threatened to destroy the

o

■mmsm

WAS ADMITTED A MEMBER

a of the: above

i

Fit;. 60. — FLOBAL EMBLEM "K THE UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND
PROVIDEN 1 SOCIETY.

are being made with dwarf Apple-trees. These are planted in
rows, and the treatment given each row differs only in one
particular, but always a different one, from the normal.
Hence, if the result was different in comparison to those
grown under normal treatment, the cause of such variation
was (dear. The great care necessary, and the means taken to
thus preserve the experiments from influence from outside
sources, were explained in some detail by Mr. Pickering.

The manuring of soil for fruit-tree [cultivation lias re-
ceived attention, and to this purpose have been used chiefly
natural (dung) manures and potash, nitrogen and phos-
phates.

Having so far described how the Woburn experiments had
been organised, Mr. Pickering discussed the means to be
taken to measure the results, and showed that this process is
far more difficult than would at first "sight appear. In
judging the produce of an Apple-tree, for instance, which
should be accounted most valuable, quantity or quality?
Was a crop of large, finely -coloured Apples better than a crop

Currant plantations In this country. At Woburn they had
tried many specifics for t he destruction of these mites, but so
far all of them had failed.

In conclusion, Mr. Pickering said that the experiments
at Woburn were commenced in 1894. A report had
been issued during last year, and a second report was
now commenced, and data for it were gradually accu-
mulating. But experiments must be continued through a
course of years before actual results could be published,
and above everything it was (necessary that scientific
workers should not jump to results, but everything must
be done to ensure that the results may be reliable and
fairly comparable.

Mr. Geo. Bunyard, Maidstone, said that he had gathered
from Mr. Pickering's remarks, that he, in association with the
Duke of Bedford, were doing, with other means, at Woburn
what, practical people had done by what is called " Rule-
of-thumb," which meant that they adopted the experi-
ence of generations of fruit growers that had gone before.

Mr. Bunyard was grieved to learn that no good result had
followed tie- measures for ridding the Currant-bushes of mite.
In Kent these Currants used to be the best paying crop, but
the indusl r> was now crippled and menaced by this pest.

Mr. Hahry I. Viiich (Chairman), said that he thought
that it would be interesting if Mr. Pickering stated what kind
Of soil they had at Woburn. Mr. Pickering, who replied to a
verj cordial vote of thanks, said that the site was on the
Oxford clay, and above tint there were nine inches or so of
clay and sand, but few stones. The remedies that had been
employed against the Currant-bud mite included kerosene
emulsion, turpentine, carbolic acid, benzine, alcohol, a German
proprietary insecticide, &c.

BRISTOL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS1
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

M \Rt/H 9. — A large audience assembled at .St. John's Parish
Eloom, to hear a lecture by Mr. C. Bridges, on "The Culture
of Hyacinths and Tulips."

The lecturer in a racy manner dealt with the early history
of the bulbs, and their introduction into this country; the
treatment required for their successful cultivation in the
flower-garden, or for conservatory decoration, ami for
exhibition.

Prizes for Tulips and mixed pots of bulbs were awarded to
M rs. Bannister and PrDOBOH.

READING AND DISTRICT GAR-
DENERS1 MUTUAL IMPROVE-
MENT ASSOCIATION.

An interesting lecture on ''The Onion " was given by Mr.
A. Dean, of Kingston-on-Thames, on Monday evening last
before the members of the above Society, the President, Mr.
C. I!. Stevens, presiding over a good attendance of members.

The classification of the Onion, its various divisions, and
the different varieties, were treated in a very able manner,
followed by many practical hints on the preparation of the
ground, manuring, time of sowing, and a few remai ks on the
enemies of the Onion and their treatment, judging at shows,
and tin- usi1- of this most useful vegetable. A discussion
followed, in which Messrs. Woolford, Hinton, Purkiss, Neve,
and Martin took part. A vote of thanks was heartily
accorded to Mr. Dean for his paper.

The exhibits included some well-kept specimens of Onions,
including Sutton's Globe [m proved Reading, Ailsa Craig, &c.,
contributed by Mr. Bright, gr., Whiteknight's Park; Mr. J.
Pound, Sen., gr. to Mr. G. May, Cavershain ; Mr. Neve, gr. to
T R. Harinan, E-iq., Sindleshain House; also some splendidly
dowered ETreesias, by Mr. Dockerill, gr. to Mr. (;. W. Palme:,
f blooms of Primula obconica, by

M. 1'. ; and several \as«-s

Mi, Tuwnsend, gr. to Sir W

in Fairer, Sandhurst Loilge.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT
AND PROVIDENT.

March i:i.— The annual meeting of the members of this
Society, whose usefulness to gardeners we have many times in-
sisted M| was held on Monday evening last, in the Caledonian

Hotel The chair was filled by Mr. .Ions Fraser, F.L.S.,
and there was a moderate attendance. The following paragraphs
have been taken from the report of the Committee for 1898 :—

" Eighty-three members joined during the year, sixteen
lapsed, and eight died, one being a lapsed member, and the
amounts standing to their credit have been paid. The mem-
bership now stands at 741. Tin- amount of subscriptions
pnl by members to the Benefit Fund, including arrears for
1897, was £1163 lis. 2d. 'Ihe amount paid to sick members
was t '.' i8 17*., a rather heavy amount, several cases being of a
long and serious character. The amount is covered by
deductions from members' deposit accounts ot Ss. 7</. and
5s. 9d. respectively.

" Subscriptions to the Benevolent Fund from honorary and
benefit members amounted to £141 13s. 3d., and £35 5s. tW.
has been granted in small amounts to members from this
fund. The first member (No. 4) to receive, a regular allowance,
being over 70 years of age, is now on the funds, and taking
into consideration that he has worked on the committee trom
the commencement of the Society, lias been granted Ss.
per week.

" The Convalescent Fund continues to be useful, and is now
incorporated in the rules. Subscriptions to this fund were
£23 3s. 3d., and £6 has been paid out. All members are
invite"! to rontribute to this fund. The Management Fund
shows a balance of £109 19s. 4</. The Treasurer's statement
of accounts is also very satisfactory. The amount invested
incorporation Stuck for the past year was £1250, the total
amount of funds invested being now £14,350, and the
treasurer has a balance in hand of £128 15s. \\d."

The report was accompanied by a balance sheet duly
audited. The Treasurer's statement showed that the Society
has a balance of £88 3s. bd. over and above all liabilities.
t The report and balance-sheet having been accepted by
the meeting with unanimity, the chairman said that he
had availed himself of an opportunity that had been
afforded him to thoroughly inspect the books of the
Society, and this inspection had convinced him that
the members had every reason to be satisfied with the
manner in which their affairs were managed. Mr. Fraser

176

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[March 18, 1899.

had something to say of each fund, declaring that they were
all valuable ones, and that each had been worked to
profit The membership, which twelve years ago was
200, is now 769, and the expenses of management for
the year, including Secretary's salary, and all administra-
tive expenses, was the modest sum of £99 19s. bd. The
advantages the Society has to offer to young gardenera
above those that any similar society can give them, were
plainly pointed out by Mr. Fraser, who incidentally men-
tinned that one of the members has now a sum of nearly £100
to his deposit account in the Society. Even in the case of
lapsed members, the sum standing to their credit is not con-
fiscated by the Society, 'but is retained until such lapsed
member has attained a certain age, when it is paid over to
him, or in the case of death occurring earlier, to his nominee.

Subsequently, it was decided to print 2500 copies of the
Report and Balance Sheet for distribution.

Messrs. Peerless, Burge, and Forward, were elected members
of the Committee, and in the places of Mr. G. W. Cummins
and Mr. Wheeler, who retire through change of residence.
Messrs. Harding and Taylor were elected. Mr. Harding, who
is a young gardener, at present employed in tin- gardens at
Gunnersbury Park, is the first under gardener to be given a
place upon the Committee.

Replying to a Vote of Thanks, the Treasurer, Mr. J. Hudson,
referred to the new emblem, or certificate, which we illustrate
on p. 175. It has been designed by Mrs. Harvey, {nie Miss
Lilian Hudson), and the design itself measures 13 inches by 10
inches ; the probable cost to each member wlil be eighteen
pence. The emblem is a very artistic production, in which
flowers and fruits are associated. The Penzance Sweet Briar
will be readily recognised, also the Clematis, Narcissus,
Berbeiis, and Cherries.

There-election of Mr. Collins, as Secretary, was proposed
by Mr. A. Hernsley, and several members, includiug Mr.
Hudson, supported the motion.

The turnover during the past year between tl-.e Secretary
and Treasurer, said Mr. Hudson, had been about £2,000, and
when they compared their books each agreed with the other
to a penny. Mr. Collins was re-elected with enthusiasm.
Votes of Thanks to the Trustees, Committee, Press and
Chairman, concluded the proceedings. The address of the
Secretary is 9, Martindale Rd., Balham, London, S.W.

American Carnation Society.— The annual
meeting of the Society on February 10, at Phila-
delphia, was somewhat interfered with by the
seventy of the weather. The encouragement In hi
out to raisers of new seedlings by the colossal prico
paid for " Mrs. T. W. Lawsou" was alluded to. It
may, we think, be doubted whether this abnormal
occurrence will do anything but harm in the long
run. We understand that the proceeds from this
Carnation are to be devoted to the hospitals and
charitable Institutions of Boston, so that som s
good, at least, will be done. Mr. Lawson, we see,
has offered MOO dols. for prizes to be awarded at
the next year's show of the American Carnation
Society. The most satisfactory manure was found
to consist of nitrate of soda, 3 lb. 14 oz. ; dis-
solved bone-black, 1 lb. 1 oz. ; muriate of potash,
1 lb. 13 oz. ; the quantity being estimated for a
bench space of 100 square feet. The Society
adopted the following scale of points for judgiug :
— Colour, 25 ; size, 20 ; calyx, 5 ; stem, 20 ; sub-
stance, 10 ; form, 15 ; fragrance, 5. Flowers of
Mrs. T. W. Lawson were exhibited, and are
described in the Florists* Review as being of "won-
drous beauty and size." Nevertheless, Mr. Silvers
hopes to beat this flower in 1900 with his Hannah
Hobart.

Colonial Notes.

— »
THE BERMUDA JUNIPER.
We iu Bermuda find "the Cedar " a most valuable
wood for all purpose?. It is very durable as posts
or ship timbers and planks, and makes nice furni-
ture. I myself have several old chairs and chests
that were made by the early settlers, and the wood
is as sound as it ever was. This island is, in most
parts, densely covered with the trees, aud there are
many beautiful groves of large trees as high, I
should say, as 100 feet. Trees fit to cut are con-
tinually being taken to the saw-mills, making room
for the younger trees to grow, to be made into
rafters, &c, though not so much used as formerly
wheu the entire woodwork of a house was made of
"Cedar." I see in your paper that Evelyn says,
" and we might have of the very best kind in the
world, from the Summer Islands, though now
alinost utterly exhausted there also." He evidently
alludes to timber-trees, trees tit to be shipped to
England and elsewhere. In the old records of the
colony, discovered, deciphered, and published in
two excellent volumes, by Governor I.efroy, frequent
mention is made of vessels carrying back to England
logs of " Cedar," and chests of the same wood, but
the colonists were so improvident and wasteful,
that laws had to be made forbidding the cutting of
" Cedar," except by the owner, and a stop was also
put to the shipping of Oranges, itc. , in boxes or
chests of Cedar. During later periods, when sliip-
building was an industry of the island, the poor
Cedars agaiu suffered, but of late years no vessels
have been built here, and the Island is becoming
densely wooded again. The largest trees now
growing are to be found in the salt-water marshes,
the heart-wood is much darker than that of trees on
high ground, but it is not nearly so durable.

I have lived for ten years or so in Florida, and have
" hunted " aud camped in the great Gulf-hammock.
This is where the Cedars are cut for the large
pencil-mills at Cedar Keys. We used to burn large
branches of these felled trees for our camp-lire, and
would have gladly used auy other kind of wood
because it invariably "spluttered" and sent large
pieces of burning coals Hying all over our camp, and
we had often to get up in our blankets and stamp
out the tire. This tree is presumably J. virginiaua
[yes]. At all events it serves to show what a
difference there is betwesn it and J. Bermudiaua,
which we daily burn in our kitchen, and which
never plays us such pranks. The Gulf-hammock is
swampland densely timbered with different hard
and soft woods, the "Cedar" not by auy means
predominating.

The Bahama Juniper I never noticed, but I
brought a stick from there made of the wood, and
had a handle made for it, of J. bermudiaua. There
seems to be no distinguishable ditt'ereuce between
the two woods. Artliur Haycock, Bailey'* Jim/,
Bermuda.

Trade Notice.

We understand that Messrs. Cooper, Taber and
Co., Limited, have purchased the old-established
business of Messrs. Rntley and Silverloek, of Vic-
toria Embankment, London, W.C., and from
March 14 the business has been conducted by them
at the above address, and at Witham, Essex. Mr.
Rutley will continue to have an interest in the
business as heretofore.

Enquiry.

Fragrant Roses. — Will some kind Rose amateur
oblige M. D. P. with the names of a number of
varieties of Roses, which retain their fragrance iu
the hottest weather ? Many ordinarily fragrant
Roses, as for example, La Frauce, lose their
perfume on hot days.

Answers to Correspondents.

Books: E. P. A. The book named is to be
obtained at Macmillan & Co., St. Martin Street,
W.C.— E. J. G. The English edition of IAnd nia
has been discontinued. The work can still be
obtained, however, iu the French language, and
is published at 117, Rue Belliard, Bruxelles,
Belgium. The price is sixty francs, or about
£2 10*. per year. Lindenia is issued in monthly
parts, but occasionally the parts for two mouths
are issued together.— H. J. II. A number of
small well written manuals by men of great
experience are published by Mr. Upcott Gill, 170,
Strand, W.C. The price of same runs from Is.
to Is. 6d.

Chickweed on a Lawn ; P. G. You might try
the effect of some substance that, by increasing
the growth of the finer grasses, would smother
out of existence this weed and others. Fish
manure, Watson's lawn sand, sold by the
sundriesmen ; wood ashes, sifted decayed dung,
&c, if put on now that the grass is growing,
would do this. t'hickweed, Stellaria media,
tlowers from March to October, and you must
take every means of preventing the ripening of
the seeds by mowing the lawn weekly.

Cobic Contents of Glasshouse: Alpha. The
house contains 331S|;!J cubic feet.

Forcing produce for Market : A Subscriber.
Any good general work on gardening is suitable,
say Thompsons Gardeners' Assistant, published
by Blackie & Sons, Glasgow and London ; The
Culture of Vegetables and Flowers, by Messrs.
Sutton & Sons, Reading. There is nothing that
is new in market garden operations, only so far
as contrasted with the same in a private garden,
the desired results are obtained by cheaper means.

Glazing Forcing Houses : Duplex. The best
kind of glazing is that which prevents drip, and_is
yet air-tight without the use of putty or paint,
which is practically imperishable, can be easily
erected, is secure against the heaviest wind, ami
affords the maximum of light. These conditions
are obtained in the galvanised steel sash bars.

Hampton Court, and other Big Vines: A. S.
The Great Vine at Hampton Court is said to be
about 150 years old. It bears anuually about
1700 small bunches. We do not know if it ever
bore a greater number than this. The roots
have travelled far away from the original border,
aud they have been found, it is said, in large
numbers in the Palace sewer. So far as we
know of, no feeding of the Vine is now per-
formed. The Cumberland Lodge Vine is twice
as large as that at Hampton Court, aud the crop
of buuehes is correspondingly greater. It fills a
house 138 feet long by 20 feet wide. It is
probably older than that at Hampton Court. A
Vine at Mauresa House, Roehampton, the largest
in the country, planted iu 18112, now fills a house
420 feet long and 24 feet wide. It has borne 800
bunches of good fruit. There are several other
big Vines, but we would refer you to Mr. A. F.
Barron's book ou Vines and Vint Culture, pub-
lished at Journal of Horticulture Office, Temple
Chambers, 1, Wine Office Court, E.C.

Horticultural Examination' : //. J). Write for
particulars to the Secretary, Royal Horticultural
Society, 117, Victoria Street, Westminster.

Leaf : J. W. It. The drawing is apparently that
of a Fig-leaf, but not being certain we should
like to see the actual leaf and a shoot.

Names of Fruits : W. L. Farmer. 1, Cox's
Pomona ; 2, Yorkshire Beauty ; 3, Royal Somer-
set ; 4, Hambledon Deux Ans.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue on requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — ('. .1. II. 1, We cannot
name without Howers : 2, Opuntia microdasys :
3, Gasteria glabra ; 4, Rochea falcata : 5, Gasteria
verrucosa; ti, Aloe albispina. — A. B. Prunua
spinosa : the Sloe, nothing to do with the Glas-
tonbury Thorn. — /. B., Llantrisant. 1, Daphne
laureola (Spurge Laurel) ; 2, Forsythia suspeusa,
— Acorn. 1, Cryptorneria elegans ; 2, Cephalo-
taxus drupacea ; 3, Retinospora obtusa ; 4,
Cryptorneria japonica ; 5, Tsuga canadensis ; 0.
Cornus sibirica (what a scrap ! ). — E. M, C.
Cymbidium aloifolium. — N. C. D. Ccelogyue
cristata. — /•'. Crook. 1, Pittosporum uudulatum ;
2, Polygala myrtifolia, the form is known in
gardeus as I'. Dalinaiseaua ; 3, Alonzoa incisifolia.
— B. J!. If the coat of the corm is netted, your
Crocus is C. reticulatus, otherwise we should
refer it to C. Imperati.

Soluble Ferments and Seed Germination ;

O. W. A. See Gardeners' Chronicle, p. 420,

December 11, 1897.
Violets : J. W. See the reply to W. W., in our

last issue, p. 160.

Communications Reoeived.— M. D.— Dr. Zahl Bruchiirr,
Vienna.— Dr. Engler, Berlin — C. Fr6res, Mortefontaine.—
M. Chabanne, Lyon.— G. E.— W. G. S. -J. «.— W MB —
.7. L>.— G. F-— G. W.-P. B.— G. A. K.— Alt wood & Co-
lt. P. B.-J. B.S.-R. U.-A. P.-C. W. D.-G. H. Bngle-
heart.— S. A.— General Lamprey.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks.—
M. D.— J. Butler.

Important to Advertisers. — The Publisher has

thr satisfaction of announcing thai the circulation of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminds I that the " ChronUle" circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners'
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and thai it 'is
preserved for reference in all the principal Libraries.

{For Markets and Weather, see p. xiii.)

March 25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

, i

THE

(Hardeners' dptwmicl*

No. 639.— SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 1899.

THE POTATO IN FRANCE, 1781, a.t>.

TT seems strange to think that the Potato
■*- should have had a great struggle for exist-
ence when a book on this subject was written
by M. Parmentier, a noted Parisian physician
of his day ; but so it was.

The author first discusses what constitutes
true nourishment ; but, as the nitrogenous nature
of albumin, casein, fibrin, &c, was not well, if
at all understood at that time ; he lays more
stress upon the farinaceous food, such as starch,
ifcc, as holding the first rank. For he con-
siders the gluten of Wheat not to have the high
value which Beccari (who discovered it) and
other savans declared. He ridicules the idea
as being entertained in consecpience of its
apparently close resemblance to animal tissues,
such as cellular tissue, horn, &o, ( )f course,
the author was wrong, and Beccari right ; but
from his point of view, all roots containing
starch should be useful for food.

His argument is that, as so many nutritious
plants used as food contain little or no "gluti-
nous matter," suchas Barley, Oat, Bice, Maize,
Chestnut, Sweet Potato (Patate), &c, but all
contain much starch ; therefore, this substance
must be the most important element of vege-
table foods. He then launches out on the
virtues of the Potato, as being excessively
charged with starch. "Its culture," he
observes, "began in Ireland, it then passed
uver to England, thence to Flanders, Germany,
Switzerland, and France. It grows in all sorts
of climates, and most soils suit it. Three or
four months suffice to bring the plant to per-
fection. It scarcely ever fails. " Ho evidently
never anticipated the ravages of the Phytoph-
thora ! " Finally, the vegetable kingdom offers
nothing more useful, more wholesome, since it
serves equally well for the baker, the kitchen,
and for cattle. If Wheat is the first among
cereals, the Potato is first among vegetables."
He tells us that M. le Baron de Saint-Hiliare
wrote to him to say that a single Potato had
given him 980 tubers, though the majority were
small.

So little known was it in 1770 in France, that
people still confounded it with the Jerusalem
Artichoke and the Sweet Potato ; so he
describes these plants for the benefit of the
ignorant, adding, that the Potato belongs to the
genus Solanum or Morelle. This word was
the name of Solanum nigrum in the middle
ages in England.

" When one reflects seriously that those
years which yield a poor result in cereal grains
affords an extremely abundant crop of Potatos,
and, rice versd, one is scandalised to see the
indifference which certain people show to the
detriment of the cultivation of the Potato." He
refers to the great number of children in
Ireland, as being due to the general use of the
Potato by the inhabitants, inasmuch as it keeps
them healthy when young, and gives to the
parents a more robust constitution. The author

also gives a number of cases of invalids who
were greatly bonetited by eating Potatos, even
using them as a remedy for sleeplessness I He
also strongly recommends the Potato for cattle,
as improving the quality of the milk, and in-
creasing its quantity.

If Wheat and Barley be scarce, then he
strongly recommends adding Potatos to the
tli iur, and describes several such uses to which
it could be put. M. Parmentier then pro-
ceeds to describe a number of trees and
herbs which might be useful in times of
scarcity as furnishing starchy foods, such as the
Horse-Chestnut (Marrons d'Inde), of which he
observes that it was first brought from Northern
Asia by Bachelier, the first tree being planted
in the Jardin de Soubise, the second in the
Jardin du Roi, 1656, which died in 17**7, and
the third at Luxembourg. The Acorn, Aris-
tolochia rotunda, Belladonna, Bistort, Bryony,
Colchicum, Drop - wort, bulbous Fumitory,
Gladiolus, Black Hellebore and many others, he
suggests, might be used as supplying farinaceous
food.

The concluding part of the book, which runs
to 600 crown octavo pages, is devoted to the
refutation of twenty-four objections to the
cultivation of the Potato. They appear to be
mostly (i priori assumptions, and all trivial.
The following are specimens; of course the
author had satisfactory answers for all of them.
"Si one say the varieties of the Potato are
in.. re than sixty ; but no one asserts which
should be grown. They are, doubtless, only
degenerations from the same plant."

" The Potato takes up ton much of the soil,
and will render it incapable of growing grain."

"The cultivation of the Potato is quite as
costly as that of grain."

"That between spring and autumn is an
interval of six months, during which one is
deprived of this resource of food ; whereas
grain will keep indefinitely."

" If the Potatos get frozen or germinate in
the winter, then they are lost altogether."

"Must wo abandon our fields and soils so
useful for corn .' By paying too much attention
to Potatos one will neglect corn, which is
always beneficial."

"The use of Potatos for beasts is not so g I

as has been maintained : for observers have
already remarked that the laid of pigs, which
have been fattened on Pot;itos, has not much
consistence."

"As an aliment for man, the Potato is not
without reproach, for one must have a strong
and vigorous stomach to digest the viscous and
gross matters which the root furnishes."

The most complete answer to all these absurd
objections has been supplied by the fact that,
since the book was written, Potatos have been
and are eaten all over France at the present
dny. George Uenslow.

EVOLUTION IN THE GARDEN'.

Yoi k most interesting article (p. 72) will, as I
sincerely hope, awaken a lively and more appre-
ciative interest iu some, at least, of the many
phases of hybridisation and cross-breeding as
carried on in British and Irish gardens. With all
you say of the late Dean Herbert, I most cordially
agree. He was "a Darwinian before Darwin,"
as also was the late T. A. Kuight, in a
somewhat different degree ; aud as you wisely
observe, it was the fact of Herbert being
a staunch churchman that did much to dis-
arm the adverse criticisms of those who held
that it was almost impious for man to interfere
iu the generation of plants by hybridism or

cross - breeding, though no one of that epoch
ever seems to have entertained the slightest
objection to the art of grafting or budding being
performed.

.So unpopular was hybridism in gardens half a ceu-
tury or more ago, that some raisers of cross-bred
seedlings were most unfortunately led to conceal the
real origin of their hybrids and crosses, and this
confusion they still further confounded by giving
to them latinised specific names. This was largely
done in the case of Ericas, Pelargonia, aud the
earlier hybrid Calceolarias, Ciuerarias, Rhododen-
drons, and Fuchsias. Tins is a well-known matter
of history, and it has, iu some cases, moreover,
led to confusion and misapprehension in recent
times. Even the earlier Orchids and Nepenthes
hybrids had Latin names, and it is only during
recent years that either Latin or popular names
and signs have been devised that show at a glance
-firstly, whether a plant is a hybrid ; and secondly,
that afford one some clue as to its parentage.

To the action taken at the first Narcissus Con-
ference held at South Kensington on April 1, 1883,
we owe a good deal, seeing that previously there
existed no rule agaiust the affixing misleading
specific names in Latin to new seedliugs reared in
gardens.

In view of the forthcoming Hybrid Conference at
Chiswick, we may fitly show here the purport of
the resolution then passed. It was proposed by
Mr. H. J. Elwes, and seconded by Mr. J. G. Baker,
and reads as follows : —

" Resolved — That in the opinion of this Confer-
ence uniformity of nomenclature is most desirable,
and that garden varieties of Narcissus, whether
known hybrids or natural seedlings, should be named
or numbered in the manner adopted by florists,
and not iu the mauner adopted by botanists."

Though this resolution was worded aud passed
only iu connection with the genus Narcissus, it is
as naturally applicable to all "known hybrids and
natural seedlings" whatever, aud as before iudi-
i-ati'd, a good drill of ronfnsion would have been
prevented had such a resolution been passed and
acted upon fifty or sixty years ago, or at a time
when hybridism and cross-breeding was practically
ln-giin in British gardens.

In any case, I trust that the above resolution, or
some more clearly expressed modification of it will
be passed at the forthcoming Conference, so that
for our own time at least we may have aud hold to
oue uniform plan of naming all cross-bred plants
whatevei as reared in our gardens.

At the present day hybrid plants possess as deep
scientific interest, and one may say, almost, that
" the stone which the builders rejected has now
become the head of the corner," i.e., that hybrids
of known origin are, biologically, most instructive
as illustrating the constant progress of adaptation
or evolution. We have only to look at Macfar-
lane's beautifully illustrated study of hybrids, or
to read Prof. Henslow's paper on the hybrid green-
house Rhododendra iu the Journal of the Royal
Horticultural Society, London, or Mr. Hurst's
papers in Nalttre on "Orchid Hybrids," to realise
what the products of cross-breeding cau teach us,
provided careful records arc made and kept during
the progress of the work.

I also sincerely hope that the now vast and
widely-scattered bibliography of hybridism and
cross-breeding will receive all due attention at the
Conference, and that coloured sketches, drawings,
photographs, or dried specimens of hybrids, &c,
will be exhibited, as well as the living hybrid
progeny, aud their parents, side by side, whenever
possible. Special histories of some of the most
remarkable bigeueric and specific hybrids might be
given, say, for example, of Messrs. Clibran's hybrid
(Urceocharis) between the Urceolina and the
Eucharis : some of Messrs. Veitch's wonderful
bigeneric Orchids, and their Philageria,* a hybrid

•' This name marks an epoch in the intelligent naming of
garden hybrids, being mi.' ..1 the first of those that givea .■In-
to bigenerie parentage, &c.

##

178

THE GAFDENEFS" CHFONICLE.

[March 25, 1899.

between Philesia and Lapageria. Apart from
hybrids altogether, there is a wide and fertile field
of observation opeu in relation to those solitary
species like Cyclamen latifolium, Primula sinensis,
Eeseda odorata, Dianthus Caryophyllus and D.
chinensis, Crocus vermis, Althaea rosea, Anemone
hortensis, Callistephus hortensis, Iris xiphion, I.
xiphioides, Zinnia elegans, and many others that
have never been known to hybridise with other
species, notwithstanding which their cross-bred
progeny is so very variable and distinct. Are these
natural hybrids V

As opposed to this class or group of ultra-variable
species, we may glance at those ultra-stable species
that so far have defied all the hybridist's efforts to
cause them to vary in colour or in form, viz.,
Richardia africana, Tropoeolum speciosum and
T. aduncum, Vallota purpurea (there is said to be
a white-flowered form, but it has never been exhi-
bited), Caladium esculentum, Dielytra (Dicentra)
spectabilis, Eucharis amazouiea (with one exception
only), Clloriosa superba, Anthericum liliastrum,
Rosmarinus officinalis, Schizopetalon Walkeri, and
many others. It is not contended that seedlings
of this last list of species always "come true"'
precisely, but that they very rarely vary at all,
and when they do so it is in a very limited degree.

Then come the questions of " graft hybrids " and
of "sports;'' the former now and then, even if
not often, resulting in cell-unions that lead to a
marked modification of after-growth and develop-
ment, as has been proved in the case of Cytissus
Adami, grafted or budded fruits such as Pears,
Apples, Vines, Potatos, Tomatos, and in the case
of variegated plants, such as Jasmine, Mountain
Ash, and Abutilon. Information on these branches
of the subject would be very valuable, and might
lead to our being able to formulate some general
law concerning their appearance under certain
conditions.

One great, even if not the greatest, want in the
gardening literature of to-day is a good and full
alphabetical list of garden plants, as opposed to, or
rather in addition to what are called true, or bota-
nical species. Useful though the great Indi x
Kewensis is to botanists, its value to the cultivator
is sadly marred by the exclusion of garden hybrids
and seedling variations, and it is to be hoped that
one practical outcome of the forthcoming Hybrid
Conference at Chiswick may be some well-directed
attempt at a full and, as far as is possible, accurate
list of garden plants, with their origin and history,
when such are known. In do other way could the
Royal Horticultural Society do a higher service to
horticulture and its progress than by helping for-
ward a real "Index Hortensis," recording in simple
alphabetical order at least the principal plants
grown or reared in British and Continental gardens
during the past half century.

This, moreover, is no new cry or want, since so
lougagoasNov. 19, 1878, Dr. M.T. Masters, in reading
a paper " On the Nomenclature of Garden Plants "
before the Scientific Committee of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, used these pregnant words : —
"In the tirst place, an authoritative garden cata-
logue is a crying want of our times." It seems
inexplicable that in this publishing age, when
catalogues are flying by post all over the country,
" as thick as leaves on Vallambrosa," that we must
still plead the want of any good and reliable list
of garden plauts up to date, and this at a time
ulirii the I iiology of our gardens is more than ever
a matter not ouly of individual but of immense
nil tonal importance.

In conclusion, let us ask ourselves for a moment
what our gardens would be to-day if all the hybrid
and cross-bred plants were swept away? As a
matter of fact, no absolutely pure or wild species
are grown for food, and but few for beauty, if we
except the denizens of our parks and lawns, the
glasses and the trees. So different in many cases
are the cultivated as compared with their wild
progenitors, that, as De Candolle tells us in his
Origin of Cultivated Plants, they are mostly so
different as to be unrecognisable. Wheat, Onions,

Maize, Sugar-cane, Rice, and many other vege-
tables either unknown, or so changed as to be prac-
cally unrecognisable in the wild or natural state.

On the other hand, new genera, new species, and
new varieties by the thousand, have been born in
our gardens. Even in our own days, that is, within
living memory, new groups of fruits and flowers
have appeared — Melons and Grapes, Peas and
Beans, Apples, Pears, and Peaches, either earlier,
larger, better coloured, or richer in flavour, or in
some other way more desirable, i.e., more adaptable
than those that went before.

It is written, that "man cauuot live by bread
alone," and so, curiously enough, it is in the case
of flowers grown for their brightness and beauty,
that the greatest strides have been made, and we
have merely to glance at the tuberous-rooted
Begonia, the modern Caunas, zonal Pelargoniums,
Primulas, Cyclamen, Pa;onies, Delphiniums, Gla-
dioli of the new Lemoinei and Childsii types.
Look again at the new race of hybrid Strepto-
earpus, for which we are not ungrateful to Royal
Kew, or at Mr. Lyneh's new race of hybrid
Cinerarias, from Cambridge ; plants that' emulate
the best and softest-coloured of Michaelmas Daisies,
in their enormous and graceful panicles or corymbs
of many-tinted flowers, and which are destined to
supplant in many gardens the dense and squat-
habited plants with colours as harsh and as violent
as are the crudest of aniline dyes.

Even the Mignonette, the modest Violet, Lily
of the Valley, and our dearest and sweetest of
cottage window-plants, the common Musk, have
felt the thrilling touch of the modern magician's
wand. Even Queen Rosa is so far like the great
Cleopatra herself that "age cannot wither nor
custom stale her infinite variety," now that the
new hybrid Teas and Noisettes, and even the Sweet
Briars have come forth in all their glory.

But the end is not yet. On all sides we may
observe the ennoblement and glorification of the
hybrid, the cross-bred, and even the seedling,
until we are reminded of the canny Scot's dying
advice to his son— a saying we may appropriately
paraphrase as follows : "Make more hybrids, make
more crosses ; but in any case, rear seedlings by
the dozen, by the hundred, and by the thousand."
For in our gardens, as elsewhere to-day, the demand
is for added use and adaptability, added beauty,
additional variety ; and of the last-named, we all
know that in its deepest and widest sense, "La
uarietv e'est la vie." F. }V. Burbidge.

THE HEPATICA.

Fob many generations the Hepatica has been
grown in British gardens. As one looks upon its
flowers opeu to our gaze, we cannot but think of the
flower-lovers of past days, whose eyes— now for
ever closed — were gladdened by the Hepatica in the
early spring-time. Although the doctrine of signa-
tures gave it a place in medicine, and its name of
Noble Liverwort, it seems to have been more prized
for its beauty than for its supposed medicinal
virtues. When it was introduced into Britain wc
know not, but it must have been many years ago,
as we find references to it in some of our earliest
works on plants ; and although a few new varieties
have lieeu introduced, there has been little improve-
ment for 300 years or SO.

Botanically an Anemone, and properly called A.
Hepatica, what we know best as Hepatica triloba,
was originally introduced from the Continent ; but
it, or a plant closely akin, ami not different iu any
marked feature, is also plentiful in the woods of
North-East America. In Canada it is known to
some as the Snow-flower, while iu some parts of
the United States Liver-leaf is its popular name.
According to some, what is occasionally sold as
H. acutiloba from North America is distinct. The
flowers appear to be the same, and a well-informed
correspondent in Canada, who has sent me plants,
says that plauts with five lobes and those with
three are found in the woods together, and that
there is some variation in the form of the leaves,

one running, so to speak, into the other. From a
gardening point of view, there is no difference
between the blooms of the two. From comparison
of American and European plauts in growth, I
am of opinion that the latter are neater in habit
and more easily growu in our climate.

The large-flowered Hepatica, Anemone angulosa,
which comes from Transylvania, has been said to
be an American species, but one imagines that this
has arisen from the similarity in name between
Transylvania and Pennsylvania. So far as I can
ascertain, this Hepatica does not occur in North
America. Some years ago I saw in the Edinburgh
Botanic Gardens a Hepatica named H. transyl-
vanica which did not appear to differ from angu-
losa, and which, at the time, Mr. Robert Lindsay,
then Curator, said appeared to be the same as that
species. Another Hepatica with marbled leaves
has been called variabilis, but one can hardly
consider it as more than a variety of the ordinary
triloba.

Some of our earliest gardening books refer to both
single aud double flowered Hepaticas. The latter
have always been prized, aud varieties keenly coveted,
although less robust than the singles. The best
of the double varieties for garden purposes is the
peach-coloured one, which, when in clumps, is one of
the brightest and most effectiveof our spring flowers.
Its vigour never seems to decrease, and it is as
easily grown as ever it was. The double blue
Hepatica is, however, always scarce, and it is iu
few gardens that we see it grow into clumps.
Where it does so, one would counsel its owner
to be chary of removing it or of reducing its size.
In speaking of the double blue, one must not
forget that there are, in reality, several varieties
differing in shade, in doubleness, and in form.

One can hardly imagine some of these to be
forms of the common blue Hepatica, so much
darker are they iu shade of colour. There are a
few shades iu what we call the " peach "-coloured
double, ouc here being more of a mauve than that
ordinarily grown. S. Arnott, Garsethorn, Dumfrit ■.
(To be "'"'in ued. )

SPONTANEOUS HYBRIDS OP
HARDY PLANTS.
(Continued from p. 165.)
An account of the hybrids of my garden would
be incomplete unless I said something about those
mad.' by Narcissus. They are especially interest-
ing, because it has been found that several so-called
species of the genus may be imitated artificially by
crossing two other species, aud it has been suggested
that these resulting species had their origin iu the
same crosses made in nature. But I have invariably
found that varieties of Narcissus which I know to
be hybrids, are either barren or produce inconstant
flowers from seed, and that they mostly revert in
one or two generations to the original parents.
Mr. Alfred Tait some years ago sent me several
accidental wild hybrids found by him amongst
their parents near Oporto. All these were short-
lived and barren. Another distinct wild hybrid is
N. pseudo-narcissus var. muticus x N. juncifolius,
found sparingly amongst its parents, near Gedre, iu
the Pyrenees. Of this hybrid, seventy bulbs were
collected for me, aud distributed by me in one
season : the flowers were remarkably constant, but
never produced a seed. Equally barren have been
N. cyclamineus x N. triandrus, which have come
accidentally iu this garden. On the other hand,
about the year 1SS0, I collected near Luchon, when
in flower, several hundreds of the Narcissus called
N. Bernardi, which is N. poeticus x N. pseudo-
narcissus. These, in their native mountain pas-
tures, are by no means uniform, varying much,
both iu the colour aud shape of the flowers, but
they have proved fertile, ripening seed in my garden
iu abundance. I made two or three successive
sowings of this seed with curious results : a huge
proportion of the flowers came either simple N.
pseudo-narcissus or simple N. poeticus, and of the
remainder many were intermediate between N.

March '25, 1899.]

THE GABD E XE RS' CHBO XI CL E.

179

Beruardi aud one or other of these parents, from
either of which the flowers may have been fertilised
in my garden.

In the first week of March I noticed in one
of my warm borders, two perfect little hybrids,
N. pseudo-narcissus minimus x N. cyolamineus,
and shall carefully watch them for seed. I have
more than once before found hybrids of N. cycla-
mincus with some larger form of N. pseudo-nar-
cissus, and I think these seem likely to increase
and multiply, though X. cyclamineus has a weak
constitution here.

Another interesting Narcissus, apparently inter-
mediate between N. juncifolius and X. triandrus,
was scut to me ten years ago by Mr. Tait, who
found it in the Sierra d'Estrella, and called it N.
concolor. It is very dwarf, and lias the strong
soent characteristic of N. juncifolius. It has
proved fertile, ami I have raised three generations
of seed, all with coucolorous flowers intermediate
between the supposed parents, N. triandrus x N.

of dalmaticum aud the spotted pale purple of the
type being often mixed in the same flower, aud
even in different halves of the same petal.

Scilla bifolia and Chionodoxa Lucilias growing
together in the same border hybridise freely, the
result being very good ; but I am not sure whether
it is fertile. I have before stated that Scilla nutans
seems to coalesce with S. hispanica, producing
doubtful forms.

Orchid foliosa makes hybrids with 0. maculata.
I have for many years grown 0. foliosa as a hardy
plant. .Some years ago, 1 noticed spotted leaves
amongst them, but now that I have picked out
many of these hybrids, I find plain leaves are as
commou in them as spotted. The flower-spike is
longer, the flowers smaller, and the general charac
ters and habit partakes of both parents. They
make excellent border plauts. 0. maculata comes
up spontaneously in such spots of the garden as it
fancies, the seed being plentifully present in the
soil. A favourite spot for it to come is the centre

Fig. 61, -odontoglossum crisfum " di ke oi vork."

Shown by \v. Thompson, Esq., Walto i

For description of which, see " Orchid Committee inRe] fl H iltural

Society, in i Clironi ' March is, p. 174.

juncifolius, but not constant. It is dwarfer and
less robust tliau the old variety of X. triandrus
called pulchellus, which is probably also a hybrid.
I have grown it in abundance for twenty years, aud
have never found a seed. It may be N. triandrus x
N. rupicola, as it has the same scent of juucifolius.
To pass on to hybrids of other Monocotyledons,
it is now about four years since a growth of Liliurn
Martagon var. dalmaticum produced round it
several hybrids with its neighbour L. Hansoni— a
species on which I never have seen seed. These
flowered with me a few weeks before the same
hybrid was recorded and figured from another
garden. I sent some of my flowers to my friend,
Mr. (i. F. Wilson, who at ouce recognised the
parents of the hybrid. I may add that the capsules
of this hybrid swelled, aud produced seed, which
my gardener says came up ; but for the present I
have lost sight of the box or pan in which they
are The variety L. Mart igon dalmaticum mixes
in the border both with the type Martagon and its
white variety, and the see I gets scattered about.
White seedlings are few ; others come true to the
dark spotless purple variety ; but some bear mixed
flowers on the same spike, I he dark vinous-purple

of a mass of rhizomes of German Iris. I may
mention as a sign of the prevalence of Orchis
maculata in tin- native soil, that, near the gardenia
a field which had been, for many years, ploughed
land, but became full of this flower two years after
it was laid down for pasture. In that case the
roots may have been dormant in the soil, but I am
sure that those in my garden came from seed.
a Wolley Dod, Edge. Hall.
(To be contii

THE TWELVE BEST AUTUMN-
FL( AVER I X( ; CLEMATIS.

Must Clematises are pretty ; in fact, it is hard
to tell which to class as best with some of the
colours. However, I think that Clematis grower-
will agree with me that the following dozen, which
I will try to describe, are of the A 1 quality, both
as to growing and flowering properties. Taking
them alphabetically, we begin with : —

Anderson's Henryi, belonging to the lanuginosa
section. — It is without doubt the best all-round
single white. A good grower and free bloomer.

Alba magna, a lanuginosa. -It is the largest

flowering variety in cultivation. A pure white,
and a good grower.

Beauty of lie,,, ,,,. a lanuginosa. — This is an
indispensable variety with every one. The flowers
come double and single, on the same stem. Colour
a deep violet - purple. It is distinct from every
other dark-coloured Clematis by having a pure
white centre. The blooms, too, are either good
singles or good doubles, never coming semi-double.

Jachmanni. — It is needless to describe this, the
best known of all.

Jachmanni superba is darker in colour than the
type. It is a good grower, and the flower is well
formed.

Jachmanni alba (Smith's), is a very free-flowering
single white. Its flower is smaller than A. Henryi,
and has a dark chocolate coloured anther.

-1/", , lanuginosa. — Colour a light

mauve, large, single flower : the plant a good
grower.

Madami Orange, a Jackmanni variety. — Colour
crimson, tinted violet red. The petals are very
prettily crimped at the edges. It is a good grower.

Madami Edouard Andri is another form of
Jackmanni, the colour a velvety-red. It is of a
pleasing colour, and quite distinct from any other.
The growth and blooms are free.

!/, . Oeorgi Jachnan, alauugiuosavar., isawhite

Idle tze, invaluable for cut

blooms.

Princess oj I! oi the lanuginosa type ;

a deep blush-mauve. A good grower, and a
large Sower.

Colour a reddish violet-purple.
A good grower, and a free bloomer.

This dozen of varieties are autumn -flowering,
hence they will be suitable to plant near each
other. There are others that are just as good,
perhaps, as these in most ways. They are all
pretty, but those I have described certainly
comprise the cream of autumu-flowering varieties.
C. 8. F. A., Waltham Cross.

Florists' Flowers

THE CHINESE PRIMROSE.

Thk development of the Chinese Primrose forms
one of the most interesting and easily followed
chapters in floriculture. For a long time we
had only forms originating from -those originally
introduced iu Is-JO. These were seedlings from
plants cultivated by the Chinese from time im-
memorial. Nothing whatever was known of the
wild stock whence these cultivated plants must
have arisen. Then, some few years ago, the wild
plant was discovered in the mountains of South-
west China by Dr. Henry and by the Abbe Delavay.
growing under conditions very different from those
which obtain under cultivation. The early history
of the plant, and the account of the discovery
and introduction of the wild plant, have been
alluded to in these columns on more than
one occasion (see Gardeners' Chronicle. Jan. i!G,
18S9, p. 115), and illustrations have been given
showing the original form, and that of some of the
modern developments.

One great point of interest lies in the fact that all
the forms now grown have originated by selection
only ; there has been no cross-breeding, and the
■wild form which Messrs. Sutton have in cultiva-
tion has, we believe, up to this time, not responded
to the blandishments of the hybridtser. That it
will do so sooner or later, we have no doubt.

The variations that have taken place have
affected the size, colour, aud doubling of the flower,
the greater or less dilatation of the calyx, the
fringing of the petal. The colour of the leaf-stalk,
the form of the leaf, the fringing of its edge, have
also been acquired, the habit of the plant has been
altered, dense tufts of flowers are thrown up well
above the leaves, and the ornamental character of

180

THE GAB DENE B S' CHRONICLE.

[March

1899.

the plant much enhauced. Whether any of these
variations occur in Nature we do not yet know, as
the plant so far has only been found growing under
one set of conditions — on hot bare rock ; but if the
plant can sustain itself under other conditions, no
doubt corresponding changes occur.

One of the greatest strides so far as change of
habit is concerned has been effected by Messrs.
Cannell in their pyramidal strain, of which The
Lady was one of the first examples. Instead of a
compact truss too lumpy to be artistic, we have an
elegant, loosely branched pyramidal inflorescence,
which satisfies the taste of many even more than
the older forms. Messrs. Cannell are developing
their strain by constant selection, and by inter-
crossing with the older type. The variety Lady
Kmily Dyke (see fig. 62) shews one of the newer
developments of the pyramidalis type.

Is a yellow Chinese Primrose possible? and will
it be an acquisition ? When recently looking
over the remarkable collection of this useful
winter-flowering plant Messrs. Sutton & Sons
have there, we were much interested in a batch
of seedlings obtained from a cross by taking
some pollen from a double crimson variety and
placing it on a double Carnation -flaked flower.
These double forms were more properly semi-double,
each haviug a compact filbert centre of pistils rising
from a base, and they are capable of seed-bearing.
The first year's progeny was representative of the
seed-beariug parent — white with slight flakes or
pencilbngs of rose or crimson. The second year in
seedlings from the preceding, the crimson tint pre-
dominated. The following year purple began to
manifest itself, and the fourth year there was a
great variety of tints — one might say everything
but yellow. This serves to illustrate the difficulty
often experienced in fixing the character of a desirable
seedling obtained from a cross of this character,
and it throws a little light upon the probable cause
of sports seen in some flowers, the act of unmixing
at some more or less remote stage of what was
originally combined.

But if no yellow appeared from this cross, there
were shades of blush-pink, lilac, pale-rose, deep
rose, carmine, crimson, &c., with white ; some of
the tints of rose are very attractive. In some of
these seedlings could be seen the passages to a more
fully double character, aud if this fulness increases,
it will be interesting to know if sterility follows in
its wake.

Still, hopes of eventually securing a distinct
yellow Chinese Primrose, run high. Yellow has
shown itself iu some flowers where least expected,
in the quilled Aster for certain, for though for
years past we have known of a tint of sulphur
among the white-quilled Asters, it was scarcely
expected it would some day suffuse the whole
Hower — but it has done so. At Reading a successful
cross has been effected between Primula floribunda
and a garden form of P. sinensis; some of the
seedlings are simple reproductions of the pollen
parents, but some are of a decided intermediate
character, showing quite a combination of foliage.
Out of a large batch of these in bloom, we saw a
few plants that seem to be markedly distinct in
haviug stout erect leafage, thicker and diversely
edged from that of the plants of the ordinary type,
flowers diversely shaded, and, though from the
same sowing, yet blooming three months later.
True, the distinctions are few ; but then, no one
expects to find diversities to be pronounced
hurriedly.

At one time the Chinese Primroses were coiv
fined to rosy-purple and white tints, and when
there was no thought of keeping seeds of the
two varieties apart ; but if rosy-flowered Primulas
were required it was enough to pick out the plants
with tinted leaf-stems. Those with light leaf-stems
would produce light flowers. All this is changed
now ; the purest white blossoms are found on
plants with the darkest leaf-stalks, and there is
scarcely a striped variety that is not associated
with the same foliage. Oue of the newest develop-
ments iu white single Primulas is that known as

Royal White, a splendid form of black stem and
leaves, the contrast being remarkable.

It is many years ago since what is knowu as the
Fern-leaved type of foliage was first developed. The
palmate form lengthened and narrowed, and forming
a series of lobes at the sides, became known as the
Fern-leafed variety. In the early days of its develop-
ment the leaves were almost erect, aud the leaf-stalks
long ; the latter has become shortened in time, and
the leaves are nearly horizontal. They have become
darkened, both in the case of the palmate aud
Fern-leaved types, deepening even to a rich bronzy
hue. The leaves of both vary in form, but the type
is maintained.

There is now also a mossy-leaved section, iu
which the leaf-margins are so finely fringed that
they are quite mossy, heuce the designation.

The range of colours in the flowers, once so
limited, have now a wide range — from rich
crimsons and scarlets, down to pure white.
There are purple and rose shades in course of
development, aud I should not be in the least
surprised if, some day, a true blue colour was
reached through one of these. So far, our blue
Primulas are pale violets tinted with lilac ; and,
having regard to the slow progress made in deepen-
ing the colour during the past ten years, it is
doubtful if a real blue variety will be reached in
this way. The deepest colour appears to be
seen iu the semi-double forms iu the Reading
collection.

We are not nearly at the end of the improve-
ments in this popular flower. It is not necessary
to go further in the size Of the corollas, for they are
quite large enough. It does seem that if size must
be maintained, paucity of bloom will be an accom-
plishment. The value of the Chinese Primrose as
a decorative-plant lies largely in its floriferousness
and its succession of bloom. It is an invaluable
winter-flowering plant, associating well with other
subjects in bloom at that season of the year ; and
auything cultivators can do to enhance its use-
fulness will be gladly welcomed.

The Florist's Auricula.

The fact that the present spring has brought an
unusual demand for the named varieties of the
florist's Auricula is a proof that interest in the
beautiful and fasoiuating flower is manifesting
itself ; it is not often that named Auriculas are
advertised for, but that is happening at the time of
writing. The increase by means of offsets is slow,
very slow indeed, in the case of some of the choice
varieties. You cannot force the Auricula into
growth to furnish stock, as iu the case of some
plants ; and to attempt to do so spells ruin. They
who want plants of a special variety must wait until
the plant reaches a point when it will produce
offsets. It is possible during May or June to ex-
pedite matters by beheading a plant whose main
stem has become lanky, aud by placing it at the
side of a small pot of suitable soil aud carefully
looking after it, it will root while the trunk will
produce stock. There is a certain amount of risk
attending the process, but iu capable hands it is
generally successful. It frequently happens that a
retarding spring follows a mild winter, and it would
seem 1899 is to be no exception. So far March has
been dull, foggy, and latterly cold ; aud vegetation,
except in warm houses, makes but little headway.
We are within a month of the Exhibition of the
National Auricula Society, and in order to have
the plants in bloom by that time some artificial
warmth will be necessary. The Committee of the
Society have no choice of date ; they are bound by
the fixture of the Royal Horticultural Society on
April 18, and the show must take place. The
misfortune is, that those who cultivate in a cold
house without the aid of artificial heat can scarcely
hope to have plants in bloom. To have plants in
full flower by the date above named, the trusses
should be well above the foliage by this time, as
the named show varieties expand their corollas in a
slow and stately manner, and especially the green-
edged flowers. The Alpine varieties are earlier in

this respect ; they come on much more quickly,
and expand their blossoms in much less time. In
the face of such March weather it would have been
better if the show had been announced for the first
week iu May.

The movement in the plants which took place
during the milder weather which prevailed during
the closing days of February, has become slow ; the
conditions of weather are decidedly retarding.
The young growths being put forth are tender, and
the sharp night frosts which have been experienced
have a paralysing effect. Still, the time is one of
supreme importance and interest to the cultivator.
There is the riddle of this heavily-mealed foliage of
some and the mealless deep green of others. No
green-edged Auricula has mealed foliage, aud but
very few indeed of the grey edges ; but among the
white edges aud the selfs they are numerous. It
is when the grey edges, taking on more meal than
their fellows of the same section, and nearly approach
the white edges, that mealed foliage more or less
is found. Meal is out of place on the green edges,
both on corollas aud leaves, except the light
sprinkling which covers the solid white paste.
What particular purpose the mealed foliage serves
in the economy of nature i3 not clear to the grower.
But the densely-mealed leaves of a white edge or a
self-coloured flower is decidedly attractive, and
specially pronounced when the plants are in the full
flush of their summer growth.

Not only have modern cultivators dispensed with
the old-time rich foods the fathers of Auricula
culture advocated and employed, but they have
also largely dispensed with top-dressing, which
was formerly regarded as a fundamental element
in spring culture. The former debilitated and
destroyed many plants ; the latter appears to be a
needless process of irritation just at a time when the
surface roots are active. Air, but no direct cold
draughts, plenty of light and careful watering, are
what the plant requires at this time of the year.
Green-fly are active now ; but fumigation with
tobacco smoke or spirit vapour will soon rout
them. Clean conditious about the plants are also
necessary. Given these attentions, aud healthy
plants, then a successful blooming time may be
confidently looked for. H. D.

NEW RHODODENDRONS.

The garden of Henry Shilson, Esq., at Tremough,
Penryn, Cornwall, contains one of the finest col-
lections of Himalayan Rhododendrons known.
Most of the plants are of enormous proportions,
having been planted there more than forty years
ago. Seedlings from these old plants have been
raised, and freely distributed from Tremough,
some of them showiug undoubted evidences of
hybrid origin. Oue of the best of these is R. Shil-
soni x, a hybrid between I!. Thomsoni andR. bar-
batum. A large specimen of this has lately beeu
presented to Kew, where it will shortly be in
flower iu the new Himalayan-house. Through the
kindness of Mr. Gill, the gardener at Tremough, I
have recently had an opportunity of seeing a col-
lection of the flowers of some of the most remark-
able of the Rhododendrons in flower iu the open
air there in February. Amongst them were typical
R. arborenm, with large flowers of a rich blood-
crimson colour ; the varieties roseum and album,
aud several other forms of the same species. There
were also flower-heads of P. Harrisii x, which was
named two years ago (see Gardener* Chronicle, 1897,
p. 418), and which is a hybrid between R. Thom-
soni and R. arborenm ; and the following new
seedlings : —

7,'. Mrs Henri/ Shilson. — This may be called a
needling form of It. arborenm. The leaves are
silvery beneath ; the head is large and compact,
and consists of about twenty-five flowers, each
2 inches long and wide ; the lobes revolute, and
crisped ; the colour white below, bright rose-pink
above, with a few crimson spots inside, aud blotches
of crimsou at the base.

March 25, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

181

R. William Shilson. — This is also a seedliug form
of R. arboreum, differing from that already de-
scribed in having narrower leaves, which are dull
rust-coloured below, with shorter flowers ; also
coloured white, with pink lobes, aud a few spots
on the tube iuside, but lacking the blotches at the
base.

7?. Mrs. Richard Gill.— I take this to be a hybrid
between R. arboreum and R. campanulatum. The
leaves are shorter, and broader than in K. arboreum,
and covered beneath with cream-coloured felt, as
in R. campanulatum. The head consists of about
thirty flowers, nearly 2 inches long aud wide, pale
lavender below, darkening to mauve in the lobes,
and copiously spotted with deep maroon inside.

All three are Crst-rate early flowering Rhodo-
dendrons. II'. IT.

The Week's Work.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Sircgnell, Gardener to the Risht Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Mi Ion.': in Frames. — Much that applies to frame-
Cucumbers holds good for the Melon: only the
soil must be heavier and less rich — in fact, if the

at 18 inches, rather than allow an unlimited exten-
sion of growth, because the latter course does not
favour solidity of branch, and without this a
regular and even crop does not usually follow.
Where there is a tendency to produce long-jointed
wood, afford clear water only to the border, and a
frequent dusting of lime. Long-jointed branches
often comes from overcrowding, the ample foliage
of the Fig preventing the full influence of sun-
shine upon the stems. Upon trees started now.
fruits will be ready from .liily onwards, and if
strict attention be paid to early stoppiug, the
fruits which develop upon the new growths will
give a xiseful succession, the more so if the
varieties Brown Turkey, White Marseilles, St.
John's, and Negro Largo are employed. The
removal of superfluous buds uow will save much
lime later on, and the unnecessary waste of energy
that such growtli entails upon the trees. Fruit -
bearing shoots may be relieved of the laterals
from their point of issue ; in other cases, it is well
to allow one leaf beyond, so as to prevent the
back buds from making premature growth.

Ytnui'i Trees may still be planted for permanent
use, aud where provision was made some time
since for propagating by heeliug-in lateral primings
outdoors in a cool place, these may be prepared,
aud treated in exactly the same manner as advised
recently for Vines. Another simple mode of
propagating Figs is to first cut a 5-inch Hower-pot

Fig, 6?. -chjhese primula, lady i:\iily dyke, from ii. cankell ind sons see p. lSii).

loam is of good quality it alone will suffice. It
should be made firmer thau for Cucumbers, and the
bed should, when filled up, remain 4 inches higher
at the spot where the plants are put out thau the
rest of the bed. this forming au important check on
on canker in the Melon. Some varieties of Melon
will carry three fruits, and others four, the
number depending on the size of the fruit.
The fruits should be about evenly distributed
over each plant, aud until rather more than the re-
quired number are well set and developing, pollina-
tion should be carried on daily. In the case of very
heavy loam having to be used, lime-rubble, or lime
which has been air-slaked, should be employed.
Under no circumstances should liquid-manure be
afforded Melon-plants before the fruits left for
maturing are grown to half their size.

Figs. — Permanent trees against the back walls
of other fruit-houses arc now in a more or less
forward state, requiring attention iu accordance
with their actual condition, aud if ceupyiug posi
tions in the earlier-started Peach-houses and
vineries, they will have reached a stage requiring a
general stopping of the leading shoots, or, at any
rate, of those not required for extension. In this
case, even, it is a much better practice to pinch, say,

through" lengthwise^ with an old saw, and fixing
this with wire to a stake and round a last year's
branch, previously removing a narrow ring of bark,
and afterwards Idling the pot with turfy soil aud
leaf-mould. The ringing of the bark will facilitate
rooting, and the pot should be lixed so that the
soil will enclose the part where the bark is cut away.
The soil should only be kept in a fairly moist state,
or it will become sour aud sodden before any roots
tike possession of it.

Vim ».— The state of forwardness iu the Muscat-
house, will uow admit of higher temperatures beiug
maintained. While the Vines are flowering, it is
advantageous to expose the shoots to all the sun-
light possible, and this beiug so, the tyiugdownof the
laterals should only be done to au extent that will
prevent injury to the tips from contact with the
glass. Muscats should never be left to chance in
regard to the pollination of their flowers, but they
should be lightly brushed, or the hand drawn care-
fully over the bunch daily at about noon, paying
particular attention to the points of the clusters, as
these so often fail to set properly. In the early
morning, before any moisture has been distributed
over the floor, the pollen is readily distributed by
the means above named, or by a brisk shaking of

the Vines. Muscat Viues, in a later stage of growth
will need to have the laterals pinched back to two
or three joints from the bunch, and a selection of
the best placed and most fruitful laterals seen to
before the final reduction of superfluous shoots is
made. Afford the necessary moisture to the roots
of the Vines, either before or after the flowering
period is passed, so that the house will not be unduly
charged with humidity at that time. At the same
time, do not allow the borders to become dry, nor
suppress too severely the atmospheric moisture, or
red-spider may get a foothold and more serious
injury ensue. Sub-laterals, during the flower-
ing time, may be allowed a little freedom, as a too
rigid suppression of lateral growth is not favourable
to a perfect set. Close the house as early in the after-
noon as it is safe to do so, and keep the tires as low as
practicable during the period of sunshine, and rouse
them sufficiently early iu the afternoon to prevent
the temperature of the house declining below 7n .
Ventilate carefully, and do not allow the sun to
raise the temperature in the morning before a
"chink " of air has been admitted. An excess of
air is equally to be avoided. No hard-and-fast
rules can be laid down as to time of opening or
elosiug of a vinery, so much depending on the aspect
of the house, and whether a leau-to or span-roofed.
It is not a good practice to open the front ventila-
tors after the Vines have started. The work of
thinning should proceed when possible, but not
until it can be readily ascertained which flowers
are, aud which are not perfectly set. In the
absence of sufficient seeds, the berries will swell
to the size of Peas ouly, and for this reason it
is unadvisablc to make too early a selection of the
bunches to be retained. At this stage a surface-
dressing of a specially prepared Vine-manure may
be afforded in quantity, according to the kind used,
previously loosening the surface with a digging-
fork, so that the manure can be washed down to the
roots the more easily. A good dressing applied
now, will be sufficient until the stoning period has
passed, provided the border has beeu well made,
and it is fairly extensive. If the borders are
small in area, and there are numerous roots, then
more frequeut applications of artificial or natural
liquid manures will be necessary. Shallow borders
which require water often, should be mulched ; in
other cases it is not so necessary. Much, too, will
depend on the nature of the soil.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
B;irt.( Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Sonu species of Orchids needing Cool Treatment.

— Amongst these are species which at the present
season require more thau ordinary care, and
Odontoglossum nebulosum, a free-growing, but not
always a sure-flowering plant, is one of them.
•Some of them will not be iu a lit condition for re-
potting or top-dressing, for the reason that their
grow tli is made at no definite season ; the greater
number will, however, be pushing forth roots at
the base of those youug growths which have borne
flowers. It is a rather difficult plant to secure iu
au orchid-pot, because of the fewness of its roots,
which are thick and brittle, and seldom penetrate
the compost far ; but if the cultivator places peat
and sphagnum-moss around the roots carefully, the
plant may be firmly fixed in the compost. Excepting
that it needs a longer and more thorough rest after
the pseudo-bulbs have ceased to grow, its require-
ments are met by affording the same kind of treat-
ment as that which is found to suit 0. crispum
with rather more warmth. Odontoglossum Harry-
anum is another species that will need re-pottinc
or surfacing, as the state of the materials indicates.
O. Ure-Skinueri is rarely inactive ; and other peculi-
arities are its mode of flowering, the. shape, colour,
and disposition of its blooms, and the length of
time that elapses between the opening of the first
and the last flower, sixty or more beiug produced
iu succession. The growths will now be about mid
progress, with the fiower-spikes emerging from
between the leaves, consequently roots will soou
appear. As this stage approaches, top-dressing or
re-potting will be necessary. If the latter, use
clean well-drained pots of sufficient diameter to
admit of the extension of the rhizome during three
or more years' growth, the base being brought up
above the rim of the pot, so that the size of the pot
used may not be excessive. The plants may be put
iuto the Masdevallia-house, where the atmosphere
is moistcr and warmer than in the Odontoglossum
house. When iu vigorous growth afford them

182

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 25, 1899.

plenty of water, aud not letting them remain in a
dry condition for any length of lime.

Oncidiums of the crispum group, such as 0.
Marshallianum, 0. Forbesii, 0. curtum, 0. praa
textum, &c, now rooting freely, may be re-surfaced
after picking out much of the decayed materials.
Being usually suspended in the cool-house, a good
supply of water is required in order to keep the
materials in a healthy couditiou.

Oncidiums excavatum and aurosum need as much
warmth as Miltouia vexillaria, and should any of
the plants need re-potting, &c, the present is a
suitable season for attending to these operations.
Do not stint them of root-space or of drainage
materials, and employ peat and sphagnum-moss in
equal proportions. Afford water sparingly for a
time to plants that have been overhauled, aud also
after growth has ceased for the season, but at
other times root-moisture in considerable quantity
is required.

Oncidium concolor thrives in baskets or pans
suspended from the roof of the coolest house, if
afforded plenty of water in the growing season,
and a corresponding reduction in the winter.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Bolford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Carnations that have been wintered in cold
frames, if sufficiently hardened off, may now be
planted-out, and any layers that were rooted late
may be lifted with a good ball of soil to the roots.
Place some maiden loam round the roots, treading
it firmly, and protect the plants from cold easl
winds till fresh roots are made.

The Bed*.— Bulbs of Narcissus, Crocus, Tulips,
&c, that will be left in the beds after flowering
should have a sprinkling of bone-manure or basic
slag pricked in with a small fork. This will help
to strentheu the flowers, and the growth after
I lowering.

Violas. — Those which were progagated from
slips in a cold frame in the early autumn will have
made sturdy plants, and being duly hardened off,
they may now be planted out, so as to get them
established before the warm weather sets in. In
selecting a position for Violas, choose an open one,
but not exposed to full sunshine, and afford a
dressing of fibrous loam aud coarse sand, but avoid
manure, as it encourages sappy growth. Let each
plant be lifted with a trowel, so as to obtain a ball
of earth, and press the soil slightly, so that it may
hold together. A distance of 9 iuches apart will
be sufficient, and all flowers should be kept picked
off, and the strong stems piuehed-back till the
shoots meet aud form a tuft ; when they may I le
allowed to flower. Assist them by an occasional
application of liquid cow-manure. Be sure to
remove all old flowers and seed-pods, or the amount
of flowers, and the length of time plants will produce
them, will not be satisfactory. Violas are most effec-
tive wheu planted as a groundwork to other plants,
such as the variegated Abutilou, aud Acer Negundo
variegata, small pyramidal plants aud standards
of these plunged in pots with a groundwork of
the rich dark violet-blue of Viola Archibald Grant,
make a beautiful contrast. Upright bushes of a
dark-flowered Heliotrope and the soft yellow Viola
Wonder is an effective mixture ; as is Viola Blue
Bell with the silver-leaved Pelargoniums planted
alternately. The beds of these Violas keep good
the whole season. Other good varieties are Bullion,
yellow, Countess of Kintore, deep purple ; Duchess
of Fife, beautiful sulphur, orange-yellow centre,
edged violet ; Lord Elcho, yellow : Mauve Emperor,
beautiful mauve colour, and very free ; Marchioness,
pure white, yellow eye ; Goldfinch, yellow, with
purple margin.

Dahlias. — Tubers which have been stored away,
should now be started into growth by laying them
out on a Peach-house border, or in trays, aud
covering them with a 6-inch layer of leaf-mould,
A temperature of 60° will be sufficient to start
them. Let them be kept moist till shoots push
through the soil, then take them out, cut away
all blind tubers, aud divide and pot up, aud keep
them rather cool to encourage a sturdy growth,
Tubers of Salvias may be similarly tread d,

Clematis. — These effective climbers may be pur-
chased in pots, and planted at this season. They
will grow trained against walls, but few persons
care to plant them, owing to the difficulty of

fastening the shoots, and their bare appearance
during the winter months. Clematises look best
when creeping over an old tree or shrub, or trained
over a pergola or au arch. They are gross feeders,
aud should be planted in heavily manured soil, aud
if naturally devoid of lime, some of it should be
added. Train the shoots for the first year, and
afterwards they will take care of themselves.
Clematis Jackmaui, C. J. superba, aud C. J. alba
are effective plants in beds and to cover arches.
These require pruning-back hard this month.
Clematis moutana looks well if planted so as
to creep up among the stems of Wistaria
sinensis, and both flowering iu May, they form
a pleasing contrast. Clematis flammula may be
planted against a fence or trained over an arch. It
develops a mass of small white, deliciously fragraut
flowers in August. C. lanuginosa aud the garden
hybrids produced from it are very beautiful, pro-
ducing lovely blooms during the summon months.
These varieties flower from the wood made the
season previously, and only require thinning and
tying-in younger shoots.

!!• tiding. — Myosotis, Crimson Daisies, Primroses,
and other spring bedding plants should have the
soil made firm round the roots, aud receive a good
soaking of manure-water at the roots, as well as
a light top-dressing. On dry mornings sprinkle
them overhead with clear water in order to hasten
growth aud bring out the flowers early.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Maukuam, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrothain Park. Barnet.

Asparagus. -If much Asparagus is taken up aud
forced annually, a similar number of plants must
be planted each spring to keep up the supply.
Wheu Asparagus is grown solely for forcing, it is
not essential to prepare the land as for permanent
beds, and any piece of laud in good heart will do if
heavily manured and deeply dug. It is somewhat
early as yet to plant, but with mild weather the
roots will soon be on the move, when planting may
safely be done. Having roughly levelled ami
raked the surface, trample it all over, and rake
finely : then draw with the hoe broad drills, dee])
aiel wide enough to allow of the roots being spread
out aud buried 3 iuches deep. The plants should
stand IS inches apart each way-. Seed of Aspa-
ragus may be sown in shallow drills at this date,
the seedlings being thinned when large enough to
8 inches apart, ami alternate plants taken up the
following spring and transplanted ; doing this
a little more labour, but it pays. The germination
of the seeds may be forwarded by sowing in boxes
under glass, the seed being put in 3 inches apart,
and the seedling transplanted with a trowel in the
mouth of May. By thus rearing plants in heat,
almost one season's growth is gained. The land for
forming permanent beds should be heavily manured
with rich decayed farmyard dung and a small
quantity of soot, and seaweed if obtainable-, and
be deeply trenched. On light laud, salt forms a
valuable addition. If the land is intractable and
heavy, plenty of mad scrapings or sea-sand are oi
great use. The plants should lie set out 2 feet
apart triangle-fashion, the beds being made suf-
ficiently wide to accommodate three rows. Let
stout wooden stumps be firmly driven into the
ground at the four corners, and an alley 2 feet wide
made between the beds. Wheu the plants are
planted, rake the surface smooth, aud finish-off iu a
workman-like manner. Beds in bearing should lie
marked out auew, and the sides made good with
soil from the alleys, and a small quantity thrown
on the top ; but in doing this, do not dig the alleys
so deep as to damage the roots.

i 'auliflowi rs. — Those plants which have wintered
under hand-lights, say, six or more under each,
should forthwith be reduced to the four at the
corners, the supernumeraries being lifted with a
trowel aud planted elsewhere, affording water so as
tosettle the soil about them, andprotecting them for
some time longer with hand-lights, or twigs of
Spruce Fir or Laurels stuck iu on the north side.
I'auliflower plants raised from seed sown last
autumn, aud wintered iu cold frames, should be
plauted out before they become drawn. Let the
spring-raised plauts standing iu frames be afforded
plenty of air iu mild weather A few of the Dwarf
Erfurt may be plauted out at a later date 1 foot
apart at the foot of a south wall. If there is likeli-
hood of there beiug a gap between the late Broccolis
and the first batch of Cauliflowers, recently -rai i I

seedlings may be pricked off and grown on under
glass for the time being, and be similarly treated to
those early sown.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Epacris. — As soon as any of these plants go out
of flower, the young wood should be cut back
closely, at the same time keeping the house some-
what closer, in order to encourage the formation of
new growth. If any of the plauts require to be
repotted, they should be attended to wheu the
young growth is about half au inch iu length, using
good fibry peat, broken into small lumps by hand,
adding a liberal allowance of sharp silver-sand, aud
some finely-broken crocks or charcoal. The pots
should be quite cleau, aud if new, they should be
soaked for a few minutes in a tub of water the day
before they are required for use. Should the peat
be dry from being stored under cover, it should lie
sprinkled with water until sufficiently moist. A
shift iutopotsoue size larger is usually sufficient, the
compost being filled in gradually, and rammed
evenly round the ball with a thin rammer, until it is
is as firm as the old ball. Care should be taken not
to injure the roots iu removing the crocks from the
old ball, or by using too large a rammer in potting.
Extra care will be required in affording water until
the roots take possession of the new soil.

X' finis. — These may be afforded an occasional
application of liquid-manure, and a position near
the glass fully exposed to the sun in a house where
the night temperature is kept at about 5(J . No
attempt should be made to dry off the bulbs until
the foliage begins to turn yellow, when water
may be gradually withheld. The plants may
then be placed in a cold frame, and kept quite
dry aud unshaded throughout the summer.

Carnation Seed. — If this is sown at the present
time, the seedlings will flower in sixteen mouths ;
aud if the seed be obtained from a trustworthy
source, a considerable variety of colour and form
will be found in the seedliugs. A certaiu pro-
portion will produce siugle flowers, aud these may
lie discarded or not, according to the fancy of the
raiser ; the remainder will consist of blooms of
varying degrees of doubleness, from flowers con-
taining only a few petals to those in which the
petals are crowded, aud between these two ex-
tremes will sometimes be found blooms of consider-
able merit, which the raiser will desire to propagate.
If lie is careful to obtain his seed from the best
sources, he is sure, with ordinary good luck,
to obtain some varieties which he will con-
sider very satisfactory. The seed should be sown
in pots or pans tilled with light soil, covering the
seeds slightly, aud placing the pans iu au inter-
mediate-house, or plunging in a mild hotbed. The
seedlings will appear in a week or teu days, and
growing quickly, they are soon strong enough to be
pricked out into boxes. When the plants are well
established in the boxes, they should be removed
to a cold frame, aud gradually afforded more air.
The subsequent treatment consists iu potting the
plauts into small pots, and later into 5 inch pots,
iu which size they should be wintered.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fobtescub, Esq. Dropinore
Maidenhead.

I 'rown or Rind Grafting. — Where orchard-trees
of considerable size are to be worked with other
varieties, rind-grafting is the best method. Assuming
that the crown has been reduced in size, cut the
branches back to the desired length. If the tree
has ten or twelve main branches, two grafts may
be placed on each, and in a few years the tree will
come into bearing — that is, if grafting is properly
carried out ; aud it will possess a spread of branches
equal to that the tree had originally. The stock
may, if so desired, be headed hard back to one main
stem, and three grafts be placed ou this ; but my
experience with trees worked as the first-named
has been more satisfactory, aud a full-sized bearing
tree is obtained iu less time. The lower end of the
scion in this method of grafting is for about
?> inches, cut sloping aud slightly hollow, almost
similar to the first process for whip-grafting ; and
iu the stock a downward slit is made in the bark
to correspond in length to the sloped oft' part of the
scion. The handle of a budding-knife or a smooth
piece of wood shaped somewhat to resemble the
part of the scion to be inserted, is iutrodueed at
the top of the slit, aud geutly pushed down so as

March 2o, 1899.]

THE QABDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

183

to raise the bark, and when it is removed the scion
is pushed clown in a similar manner. If a second
one is to be inserted, this should be placed on the
opposite side, and then both should be bound
round with mattiug, and clayed over in the usual
manner (see tigs. Ii4, 119, 70).

Cleft Grafting (tig. 03) is often practised in the
West country. Iu doing it, prepare the stock as for

the wedge, and bind securely with matting, and
finish off with a good coating of clay.

Saddle Grafting is not much iu vogue, although
a somewhat modified form is frequently used in the
West, and formed the writer's first lesson in graft-
ing. Iu this method the stuck may be double the
size of the scion, although uniformity in size is to
be preferred. The latter is cleft for about .'! or

with matting, and cover with clay. This kind of
grafting may be practised with success until quite
late iu the season.
bide or Bud Grafting. — This method, a niodifi-
of whip-grafting, is useful for supplying buds
to ( spalier, horizontal, or other trained trees, espe-
cially of Apples or Pears, where otherwise the loss
of a -hoot destroys the symmetry of the tree ; and

Pig. 63.—

crown graftinu.

Pig. 04.—

CROWS GRAFTING.

Fig. 05.—

. i ■ i • i i. GR IFTING.

Pig. on.

SADDLE GRAFTING.

Fig. 07.
side grafting.

Fig. 08.—

« hip or tongue

grafting.

Fig. 69. — smith's improved method of
crown grafting.

Showing the graft [n position before il is clayed oi waxi

Fig. 70. — smith's improved method of
crown grafting.
Small bra ifted ami ready for claying or waxing

crown-grafting, and with a broad, sharp chisel,
split the head of the stock, leaving the instrument
in, or using a wooden wedge to keep the split open,
to allow of the edges being made smooth, and the
scions inserted one on either side. Cut these wedge-
shaped, and tapering to a point, making them quite
thin by removing all the bark on the side that is
placed towards the interior of the stock. Place
the scions iu position, and so that the inner bark
corresponds with that of the stock ; then remove

4 inches upwards from the lower end, so that one
side is thicker thau the other. The rind of the
stock is slit down and opened to receive the thicker
side of the scion, the thinner being set astride the
stock (the point of the latter should be cut off in
a sloping direction) and down the other side, a
small portion of the bark of the latter being re-
moved corresponding iu size to this end of the
scion, which should fit closely and evenly to the
stock (see tigs. 65, 00;. Afterwards tie up securely

it is sometimes employed iu the case of new varie-
i as to hasten fruit-bearing. A short slice is
notched out of the stock at the spot desired to
insert the scion, which in this case carries but one
bud, and when inserted it should be exactly in the
position it is wished the new shoot should start
from, and the bud pointing in that direction. It
should be carefully tied in with matting, and a
little clay or grafting wax smeared over the parts
(see fig. 67).

184

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 25, 1899.

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
tin- writer. If desired, the signature will not be printed, but
Jet pt as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under-
take to pay for any contributions, or toreturn unusedcowr-
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, &c; but
he coiinot be responsible for loss or injury.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any uiatters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to sec.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, Mar. 25— Royal Botanic Society meet.

wTrwamv a. > r- qc * Royal Horticultural Society's Cum-

1UESDAT, Mar, ^-j mittees,

SALES.

ttfsiiW Mat or ' ImPorted ;mi1 Established Orchids,

fUESDAY, Mai;, -s ^ at Prothero(? & Morri8- Rooms.

.Continental Plants
Tuberoses, I
^ Protheroe & Monis's Rooms,

/'Japanese Lili<
WEDNESDAY, M \n. 2!> Tuberoses. Carnal i ms, &o , at

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, lor
Iho period March 12 to March IS, 1899. Height above
sea-level 24 feet.

Temperature of
the Air.

Tempera-

tire of the
'Soil at 9 a.m.

- : x

Es

H

Pi

•a

T3

ri

<M

43

<

<

r.

« (fi

0- <

deg. deg. deg.

deg. ins. deg. .1c-.

deg. deg.

Si N.

12

w.

1S-.0 4S".1liO-5a7-S ... 41-5 41-6

43-:; 28-0

Mhn.

13

E.N.B.

42-S 42-0 54-4:37-3 ... 43'7 4'J'O

43 5 29-5

Tins

14

X.X.E.

13 633-5 11-1 29-7 ... 41-543-8

43-5 27-3

Wed

10

X.N.E.

32-8 32-0 IS'!'

28-2 ... S9-2423

43-S 24-6

Tin .

HI

N.N.E.

35-4 35-244-S

27'5 ... 38-(i ll-'.i

13 8 22-2

Fin.

17

S.S.E.

40-5 39-942-6

35-1 ... 40-1 41-5

43-8 32-1

Sat.

IS

S.S.E.

42-4 41-7 44-9129-9 ... 39-941-7

43-8 25-3

Tot.

MllANS...

39-4 38-4 1S-2.32-2 ... 406 42-0

43-0 27-0

/.'■ -marks.— The week ending March 18 was remarkable for
Ave nights and four days of smoky fog, which has left its
mark on vegetation. No rain fell since the 8th insl.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 44 T.

Actual Temperatures: —

London.— March 22 (12 p.m.): Max. 42° ; Min. 'Ji3°.
Provinces.— March 22 f6 p.m.): Max. 42°, Gape Clear ;
Min. 81°, York Wolds.

The twelfth volume of Professor
SoSa?JX£ SiRGENT's monumental Hilva of

North America lias been pub-
lished (Boston: Houghton, Mifflin ,V Co.).
It should have been the last, but, as a pub-
lisher's note tells us, a thirteenth volume will
be required, to contain the general index, and
to include descriptions and illustrations of
recently-discovered species. The present volume
is of particular interest to British cultivators,
as it contains accounts and figures of so many
of the coniferous trees grown in our parks and
arboreta. The history of many of these has

been, till recently, a tangled maze, with a cor-
respondingly complicated synonymy and nomen-
clature ; but gradually, as further information
has dawned upon us, much of the confusion has
been cleared up, and the present work, with its
excellent illustrations, will greatly contribute
to the completion of this result ; though, un-
fortunately, in some cases, it will have the
opposite effect, at least temporarily.

Professor Sargent's personal explorations
and investigations of the trees in their native
localities invest this work with supremo im-
portance. We have long since exhausted our
vocabulary of appreciation of the Silva, and
with reference to this volume wu can but repeat
what we have previously said.

But the changes in nomenclature which the
author has felt it his duty to adopt are simply
distressing. They are based upon a system
which is not in general use on this side of the
Atlantic. A few illustrations will suffice to
show how disquieting this new, and, as we
think, unauthorised system is. When we come
to the Black Spruce, which we had settled to
call Pieea nigra of Link., we find that in future
we are to call it P. Mariana, and if we look to
the synonymy, as here given, we find the name
Mariana is adopted because Miller, in his dic-
tionary, called it (not Picea), but Abies Mariana ;
so that, according to the new system, we are to
concede priority to the half of a specific name
only, even when that half has been placed in a
genus that everyone now admits to be the wrong
one. The usual practice in this country is to
adopt the complete name applied by the mono-
grapher who first placed the plant in its proper
genus. The idea, in the American system, is to
recognise the work of the first investigator, and
to give priority to the earliest name. Everyone
admits the claims of priority, but then it should
be controlled by accuracy of determination,
which is a matter of much more importance
than mere priority of name ; whilst the original
author is recognised in the synonymy.

The Red Spruce, which has been so confused
with the White Spruce, is here called Picea
rubens, a new name, adopted for the purpose
of cutting a Gordian knot. The White Spruce,
our Picea alba, becomes Picea canadensis, for
reasons which it would be tedious to discuss in
these pages. The beautiful P. pungens, the
blue forms of which are so handsome, is here
called P. Parryana, the reason for which change
is not apparent. Professor Sargent tells us
that the varieties of this Fir, which are so beau-
tiful in the young state, lose, after a few years,
their beautiful blue colour. A tree in our own
garden, which has been a model of symmetry
and beauty, is now becoming ragged and bare
at the base, and losing its exquisite colour ; so
that there is some fear that this tree, which
promised so well in a young state, may lose its
beauty as it gets older, and if so, the question
as to its name will be of less importance — at
least, to cultivators.

When we come to the beautiful Tsuga, gene-
rally known as T. Mertensiana, and frequently as
Albertiana, we again find an entirely new name,
T. hoterophylla, for reasons which, if lawful, are
certainly not expedient. The Tsuga which we
had come to know as T. Pattoniana is now to be
called T. Mertensiana, an interchange which
will cause the direst confusion. Professor Sar-
gent, in company with Messrs. Canby and
Mini, found two species near Sitka, one the
Tsuga Pattoniana, the other T. Mertensiana,
"and it became clear that Bongard's descrip-
tion of Pinus Mertensiana could belong only to
the Patton Spruce. Therefore this tree shotdd

be known as Tsuga Mertensiana, while another
name must be found for Bongard's Pinus
canadensis. That of Rafinesque, published in
1832, Abies heterophylla, is the next oldest
name. The possibility of identifying the tree
described by Raflnesque under this name has
usually been doubted, but his description was
based on the following account in the Journal
of Lewis and Clark. . . ." (Here follows the
description.)

Surely it would have been better to have
made no change in the nomenclature, but to
have given a sufficient explanation in the
synonymy. Bongard put the plant in the
wrong genus, or in what we now think the wrong
genus, therefore his name can only rank as a
synonym. Rafinesque also placed the plant
in the wrong genus, and the identity of his
plant is open to doubt, or can only be identified
by a passage in some one else's book !

Perhaps the most vexatious change is in the
nomenclature of the Douglas Spruce. We had
become accustomed to consider this as Pseudo-
tsuga Douglasii ; but the name here adopted is
Pseudotsuga mucronata, of Sudworth, dating
only from 1895. This name, "mucronata," is
taken from Rifinesque's Abies mucronata.
Now, the tree is no Abies, according to our
present notions, and Rafinesque's identifica-
tions are usually open to so much doubt that
they have generally been disregarded (we do
not know whether there is less doubt in this
case or no).

The variety macn icarpa is raised to the dignity
of specific rank rather than of a geographical
form.

Abies bracteata, a name dating from 1849, is
superseded by A. venusta, dating from 1873,
according to the synonymy here given, the
change being made because Douglas called it
Pinus venusta, preference being given to the
prior use of one correct half-name associated
with one incorrect moiety.

However embarrassing and vexatious these
changes of nomenclature may be to the present
generation of cultivators, they do not seriously
detract from the great value of the book to
botanical students, because an ample synonymy
and indices are given, and very often the dates
are also appended.

Ample details concerning the geographical
distribution, the rate of growth, and the value
of the trees for economic or for ornamental
purposes are given, so that the SUva is a veri-
table encyclopedia of all that is known with
regard to the trees of the North American con-
tinent, exclusive of Mexico.

Royal Horticultural Society.— The next

meeting of the Fruit and Floral Committees of the
Eoyal Horticultural Society will he held ou Tues-
day, March 28, iu the Drill Hall, James Street,
Westminster, 1 to 5 P.M. A lecture on "Someoi
the Plants Exhibited," will be given at 3 o'clock
by the Rev. Prof. G. Henslow, M.A., &c.

Horticulturists and The Bailiff.— Many
of our readers have at one time or another at-
tended the meetings of the Royal Horticultural
Society at Westminster. Probably many of them
are also aware of the mews that run alongside
the Drill Hall, and where are baited most of the
horses that are necessary to draw the exhibits from
the various horticultural establishments to the
exhibition. On the occasion of the laBt meeting,
events proceeded as usual so far as the exhibitors
were concerned until the afternoon. But, meanwhile,
certain events had taken place. It appears that the
occupier of the mews had a certain creditor (to the
amount of £70) who, for reasons best known to him-
self, had decided to place the stabling and contents

March 25, 1S99.]

THE GABDENEBS' GHBONICLE.

185

under the care of a county court bailiff. Ordinary
business instincts suggested that such a proceeding
should take place on a " Tuesday," as we horticul-
turists know it. On such a day the stables are
nearly full of well-conditioned animals. Words
are inadequate to describe with whit feelings

hammer. Happily, the Council of the Society hap-
pened to be sitting at the time, and fortunately
— from the general exhibitor's point of view — the
impounded horses iucluded two animals belonging
to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bt., and his influence
jn the end saved the situation. The honourable

owner of a stable, before one determines to entrust
his steeds to such a place.

The Nurserymen's, Market Gardeners'
and General Hailstorm Insurance Cor-
poration, — The fourth annual meeting of the

FlG. 71. — OE/OSTOGLOSSUM WILCKEAXUM YAK. FALLENS, IN Mi;. LEEMANN's GARDEN, WESt B.VNK UOUSE, UEATON MERSEY. (SEE I'. 188.)

exhibitors learned the nature of the state of things.
Persuasiou and threats were unavailing, the heart-
less bailiff, as is his wont, remained unmoved by
either. Affairs were rapidly becoming desperate.
The plants were likely to suffer injury from re-
maining in the Drill Hall all night, and the horses
were in danger of beiug sold under the auctioneer's

baronet proceeded to the Sheriffs Court and ex-
plained the position of himself and his horticultural
friends to that representative of British law, and
to the intervention of this dignitary do the exhibitors
owe the recovery of their living motors. In future,
it would appear to be necessary to obtain a written
certificate as to the fiuancial circumstances of the

shareholders will beheld at Simpson's, 101, Strand,
London, on Monday, the 27th inst. , at 3 p.m. The
report is very satisfactory, showing an increase of
27 per cent, in the premium income. The directors
recommend the payment of a dividend of 5 per
cent, on the paid-up capital, a bonus of 5 per cent.,
and that £200 be added to the reserve fund. The

186

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 25, 1899.

directorate is very strong, cousisting almost entirely
of the leading members of the trade. The Secre-
tary is Mr. A. J. Monro, 1, King Street, Covent
Garden. As the advantages offered cannot be too
widely kuowu, the directors draw attention to the
benelits of insuriug with this Corporation, viz., that
those iusured can replace immediately their own
glass broken by hail, the corporation paying them
at the rate per square foot at which the glass is
insured. Another advantage, and of which several
insurers are availing themselves, is that of being
able to cover wholly or partially the value of the
contents of their glasshouses by increased insur-
ance of their glass— an advantage offered by no
other insurance compau}-.

National Carnation and Picotee Society.

—This Society, which has as its president Martin II.
Smith, Esq., appears, from its twenty -second Annual
Report, to have experienced a most successful year,
as with the end of its financial year it had a
balance in its favour after meeting all expenses
of no less a sum than £253 15s. l^d. The total
receipts amounted to £5-2(3 9s. 'JUL, Mr. M. 1'..
Smith's special prizes amounting to the sum of
£19 7s, The prize-money disbursements amounted
to £182 16s. 6rf. In regard to the various sections
of Carnations, much improvement has been noted
in recent years in selfs and fancies, and more
especially in yellow-coloured selfs, fancies, and
Picotees. Flakes, bizarres, and whites are said to
be stationary, although improvement may be confi-
dently looked for. The Society distinctly claims to
have been instrumental in bringing about this
satisfactory state of things. The schedule for the
present year has been revised to a considerable ex-
tent, and some new classes have been added. More-
over, the dressed blooms are divided into three sec-
tions, so as to suit the different classes of cultivators
— a very necessary alteration, as by this arrangement
the competitors are placed on a more equal footing.
This scheme was devised by the President, who
also gives a Silver Cup to each section to be awarded
to the exhibitor gaining the greatest number of
points in that section. Attention is called in the
report to the new " triplicate blooms " in the third
division, and to the exhibits without dressing or
cards, which, it is hoped, may prove attractive to
exhibitors. A list of the winning varieties being now
published in the annual report, it is not considered
to be necessary to hold an election of varieties as
has hitherto been done.

Southern Counties Carnation Society.

— This Society preseuts its first annual report, and
we are enabled to gather from the gratulatory
opening paragraph, that success has waited on its
venture as a rival of the National Carnation Society
in its bid for support among the cultivators and
admirers of Carnations. The members number at
the present time 200. The first exhibition, held in
July last, was a success, although the season was
adverse and the clay rainy. The committee feel
that the thanks of the members are due to Mr.
AVilliam Carton, jun., for his exertions to
make the Society a success. Mr. A. Johnston,
26, St. Mary's Road, Southampton, is the assistaut
secretary, to whom all communications should be
addressed.

The "Journal of Horticulture" for
March 9 is worthy of preservatiou as con-
taining a sympathetic account of many of the
principal writers iu that much -esteemed periodical,
together with portraits of some of the principal
contributors from the time of its establishment till
the present time. Thus, we find portraits of
Robert Errington, Donald Beaton, Pearson
of Chilwell, Thomas Rivers, and George Abbey,
not to speak of others happily still with us.

Dante, and the Action of Light upon
PLANTS. — In a receut number of Naiure is a very
interesting article on this subject by Professor Italo
GlcSLIOLL The Professor gives several illustrations
proving that the great Italian poet had sound ideas
as to the action of solar heat and light upon plants,

and that his views and those of his contemporary,
Pier de Crescenzi, were far in advance of the
time. It was not till the time of Inc. en Houss aud
De Saussure (1774-1804), indeed, that the truth
was demonstrated. The following passage from
Dante may be set by the side of those which recall
the fact that in the consumption of coal we are but
liberating the sun-heat aud light stored up in
prinueval forests, and that Cucumbers aud other
fruits are so much " bottled sunshine."

"Behold the sun's heat which becometh wine,
Joined to the juice that from the Vine distils."

These verses are stated to have been suggested
by a passage iu Cicero de Senectule. In their turn
they influenced Leonardo da Vinci in the belief
that "the sun giveth spirit and life to plauts, and
the soil with its moisture nourisheth them. '
Galileo believed that, wine is a compouud of light
and sap ; and Dante asserted that both oil and
wine are formed by the action of solar heat and
light on plauts. Pier de Crescenzi (1305), a con-
temporary of Dante, laid special stress on the
action of heat and light on plants, aud alluded to
the hardening intluence of light upon vegetable
tissues (ripeniug of the wood in gardeners' phraseo-
logy). "Plants in warm weather," says Cres-
cenzi, "grow in the darkness of night, and in the
heat of the sun they harden aud become woody."
"The splendour of the ancient literature," says
Prof. GlGLIOLl, in conclusion, "dawning again upon
Italy, overpowered the rising of the new science.
The generations that followed Dante became more
erudite than learned ; and the new knowledge slept
again through the centuries, just showing life with
Leonardo da Vinci and a few others, until the
unlocking of the gates of sense and the kindling of
a greater natural light in the days of Bacon aud
Galileo,"

Floral Decorations (?).— A pillow for the

funeral of a wholesale butcher at Torouto was
"adorned "by a floral device representing a blue
bull in the centre, with head down and tail erect.
We take this "elegant extract " from the Florists'
Exchangi .

The Topographical Botany of the West
of SCOTLAND. — A work on this subject, by Mr.
Peter Ewing, F.L.S., is announced as ready for
publication. The country embraced extends from
Ayrshire to the Hebrides, and includes fourteen of
the Watsonian vice counties, details of which are
given in the introduction, so that they can be
easily traced on any map of Scotland. Remarks
are made on doubtful natives, nomenclature,
Rubus, Rosa, Hieracia, and Salix. An index is
given to all the genera recorded, also a list of
author's surnames in full, commonly attached to
the name of a plant iu an abbreviated form. The
work extends to about 200 pages, demy Svo, is
bouud iu cloth, and is published at 2».

"Willing's Press Guide."— This is a list of

the newspapers published in the United Kingdom
aud elsewhere. The list is, in the first instance,
alphabetical, and in the succeeding pages, classified
according to subjects. No fewer than twenty-one
publications relating to gardening are specified.
Another section contains lists of the newspapers aud
other periodicals published in the various counties
of Great Britain and Ireland. A list of the
principal newspapers published iu the colonies, in
the United States, and on the Continent of Europe
is given, so that the book is of the nature of an
encyclopedia.

Horticultural Club.— The usual monthly
dinner and conversazione took place on Tuesday,
14th inst., at the rooms of the Club, Hotel Windsor.
The chair was occupied by Mr. R. Gofton Salmond.
The subject for discussion was the planting and
pruning of single Roses, and was opened by Mr.
George Paul, V.M.H., who said that a different
system must be adopted in their planting to that
which was pursued iu the case of Hybrid Perpetuals,
Teas, and Hybrid Teas. There were three ways

in which, he said, they might be advantageously
used : trained horizontally so as to form a f euce or
hedge, and for this purpose he advocated hurdles
(on which the Roses might be trained), and sup-
ported by Ave barred iron fences ; they might be
most advantageously used as single specimens on
lawns, supported by a Larch pole ; or as single
plants in shrubberies amongst other flowering
shrubs. With regard to planting, it must be
remembered that as they are to remain permanently,
they should have more space afforded them than
the ordinary dwarf H.P.'s or Teas, and liberal
provision should be made for their future welfare.
A hole, about three feet iu diameter, should be
made and filled with good Rose-compost. With
regard to pruning, it was necessary to bear iu
mind that they should be treated very differently
to the H.P.'s and Teas, only requiring the three-
year-old wood to be cut away, the two-year-old
wood to be laid in, and the one-year-old shoots
very slightly shortened. A very interesting dis-
cussion followed the paper, in which all present
joined, aud a cordial vote of thanks was awarded
to Mr. Paul for his interesting paper.

Old World Gardens. - Au exceedingly bright
and interesting collection of water-colour drawings,
by Mr. E. Arthur Rowe, is at the present time on
view at The Dowdeswell Galleries, 160, Bond St., W.
Old-world gardens, in a good state of preservatiou,
are not numerous iu this country, aud they are
constantly being sketched by artists. Many of
those now very exquisitely reproduced by Mr.
Rowe have been seen before from the brush of
such practised artists as Mr. Parsons, Mr. Elgood,
and Mr. FuLLEYLOVE. We refer in this instance
to pictures of such places as Penshurst Castle,
Montacute House, Levens Hall, Bulwick, Arley,
Loseley Hall, Berkeley Castle, Haddon Hall ;
the topiary work, and the Yew-walk, Elvastou ;
views at the Villa Palmieri, Villa Borghese, and
others — old friends all, but none the less worthy
of seeing through auother artist's eyes.

Apples from the Antipodes.— We have

been informed by the officials of the Orient Com-
pany that the Oruba, from Hobart, due April 15,
will bring 7,000 cases of Apples ; and the Oci nun.,
due on the 22nd proximo, will bring 10,500 cases.

A Spring Flower Show at Ealing.— This
is now an annual occurrence, and is arranged by the
members of the Ealing aud District Gardeners'
Society in aid of the gardening charities. The
above exhibition took place in the spacious Victoria
Hall on the 21st. inst., the proceeds to be divided
between the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Insti-
tution and the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund.

The Severity of the Weather during the
past week is evident from letters we have received
from numerous correspondents. On the night of
the 20th inst., we are informed, that at Broxbourne
(Herts), there were 20° of frost, at Catford 18°, at
Gillingham, in Norfolk, as much as 27 of frost, aud
at Woburn 34 of frost, or 2 below zero !

Cape Fruit. — The Union Company's steamer,
the Moor, from the Cape, brought 189 boxes of
Grapes, 3li of Plums, 7 of Tomatos, and 8 of
Bananas. The Grapes, mostly white, were in good
condition, aud have realised good prices ; a few
boxes were Black Hermitage — small and poor ;
the Plums were again of excellent quality, though
uot quite such large fruits as those already
received. The Bananas were from Natal, aud
shipped on deck. These arrived iu quite a rotten
condition, which seems to show that the fruit will
uot carry well iu some eases. The Tomatos were a
private consignment.

KEW Men.— The value of the training giveu to
gardeners employed at Kew is shown by the
number that obtain good situations from that
establishment. We learn that since January,
1898, eighteen first-class appointments have been
made from Kew, including seven curators and
assistants of botanical gardens in the colonies and

March -25, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

18"

India, two collectors in Africa and China, five bead
gardeners, and four nursery foremen. Applicants
for employment at Kew must be over twenty, and
under twenty-five years of age, and tbey must have
bad a good training before entering Kew for tbe
two years' course given. It will be seen that these
appointments are filled by comparatively young
men. Applications should in the first instance be
made to the Curator, Royal Gardens, Kew.

A Market Gardener and a Welsh Coal
Strike. — An interesting case was settled on the
10th hist, in Mr. Justice Grantham's Court, when
Mr. Green, of Riverside Vineries, Hampton, sued
Messrs. Canx & Co. of Swansea, for damages arising
out of failure of contract. Mr. Green had con-
tracted with Messrs. Cans & Co. iu November,
1897, to supply him with sixty tons of anthracite
coal at such times and iu such quantities as he
should require. The colliers strike, however, pre-
vented the defendants from keeping the contract.

vantages of iuterpolliuation in counteracting ste-
rility. The average gross returns per acre from
fruit culture were noted, and the average expenses,
together with the essentials to success. Iu regard
to the prospects, it was contended that if the
United Kingdom is favoured with peaceful times,
there is a great future before the cultivator
of hardy fruits, because the value of these
products, as an important part of ;i healthful diet,
is rapidly becoming more generally recognised.
The discussion was opened by Mr. S. T. Wright,
Superintendent of the Chiswick Gardens, who
detailed many experiences in support of the
principal points. He was followed by Mr. E.
Camp, Mr. A. Bridges, Mr. .1. Eraser, ami
several other members, in an animated, interesting,
and prolonged discussion, at the conclusion of
which Mi'. Castle brietly replied on the various
points, and the proceedings closed with a unanimous
vote of thanks to Mr. Castle, proposed by Mr.
S. T. Wright, ami seconded by Mr. A. Bridges.

Fig. 72. osontoglossum crisfuu "mrs. john leemann. j

For (kg?ription of which, see " Orchid Committee," in Report ol Royal Horticultural
Societ) in ' '''.'• , p. 17-1.

Mr. Green had six large greenhouses containing
11,000 Tomato plants, and some Beans for forcing.
He could uot obtain the coal contracted for, and
estimated the value of crops thus lost at £435 for
Tomatos, and £422 for Beans. Council for defen-
dants contended that plaintiff was not entitled to
claim for loss of crops, but the difference only
between the contract price with defendants and the
price at which be eould have obtained the necessary
fuel elsewhere. The court accepted this view, and
after expert evidence had been given that plaintiff
could have obtained the 35 tons of coal which
defendants failed to supply at a loss of £8 2s. 6d.,
this sum was awarded to plaintiff'.

Hardy Fruit Culture.— At the meeting of
the Chiswick Gardeners' Mutual Improvement
Association on Thursday, March 10, a paper
was read by Mr. R. Lewis Castle, Manager of the
Woburu Experimental Fruit Farm, on "Hardy
Fruit Culture, its Problems, Profits and Prospects."
The problems were classed under the heads of
Tree formation and Fruit production, special
reference being made to stocks, budding and
grafting, pruning, planting, manures and cultiva-
tion, as affecting growth or fertility, while, as
regards the latter, particular attention was called
to the influence of foreign pollen, and the ad-

The Natural History of Plants.— The
admirable work by Herrn Kernee vos Makilain
and Prof. Oliver is now being issued iu parts, with
the original illustrations aud letter-press, by the
Gresham Publishing Co. It cau only be obtained
from them or their agents by subscribers.

Potato-grafting. M. Bornkt, in a recent
number of the Journal de la Society Nationals
d'Sorlicuitun <!• Frana (p. 193), alludes to an
observation of M. StrasbuRGER that atropine has
beeu detected iu the tubers of Potatos on which
Datura Stramonium has been grafted (Berichte d.
Deutschen Botanischen Gesellschaft, p. xxxvi. ).
This is a very remarkable illustration of the effect
of the scion on the stock ; but it is not an experi-
ment that it is desirable to repeat outside the
laboratory, or, at least, the experimental plot.

"The Smithsonian Report."— The Annual

Report of the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian
Institution to July, 1896, has reached us, aud the
contents are, as usual, of great interest. The volume
includes a general appendix devoted to papers on
Astronomy, Mathematics and Mechanics, Physical
Geography, Recent Advances in Science and their
Bearing on Medicine and Surgery, Processes of Life
Revealed by the Microscope, Biologic Relations

between Plants aud Ants, &c. There are numerous
plates, some appealing chiefly to the scientist ;
others, those, for instance, representing samples of
ancient "pueblo" work from Arizona, of more
popular interest. They are indeed beautiful repro-
ductions of wonderful specimens of primitive handi-
craft. The paper on the Biological Relatious between
Plants aud Ants is a clear account of a subject
engaging the attention of both botanists and ento-
mologists. The author (Dr. Heim) is fully up to
date in his facts and observation, while the general
tenor of his opinions may be gathered from his own
words, that :— " Disregarding the sufferings and
death of individuals, evolution tends to establi-li
between beiugs primitively rivals a modus Vivendi
that assures the free expansion of the species ; a
progressive expansion that must soon find its limits
in the new struggle that species, triumphing by
their union, must make against neighbouring
species."

Continental Novelties. — The list of

novelties issued from the National Arboretum and
Alpine Garden of Zuschen, near Merseburg, is so
large, that we cannot enumerate them individually.
'I'll' y comprise deciduous trees and shrubs, Mag.
nolias, Ilexes, &c. The catalogue of alpiue plants
issued from the same establishment is also very
rich.

Cold in Florida.- We are so much in the habit
of bemoaning the variations of our own climate, and
its many drawbacks, that it may be of advantage to
us to see that climatal variations are met with
eveu in the Gulf ot Mexico. The following extract
from the American Florist maybe of interest as
coulirmatory of the remarks of a correspondent
at p. 158.

" I ia Ha' nights of IV1, nun 12 and IS, ami also during tin'
•lays, «■ i ■ | such weather as we have never had

hcfori 'n.r temperature went down in a above zero; the

ive haveevei had in later years was 15° above. The
condition of our gardens is hard to describe. Not only
private gardens are ruined, but there is a heavy loss among
the Morists. Some "I them count their loss by the thousands

-a dollars, ana a x 1 many of them are satisfied to have lost

only a few hundreds. You know that the majority of our
tender plants are raised in hot beds. They were no protec-
tion at all against a ol cold. Our greenhouses wen- nol
heated enough nor closed enough. It will teach as a Lesson
for the future. Even our Roses, chiefly Teas, are all dead.
-. diffi n nt Magnolias, aud sweet Olives, as old as
New Orleans, aie peeling off their lark. Phrenix canadensis,
which had stood every winter before, will be killed, or, at

sdly damaged. Chamcerops seem to have stood the
most. Many orders will have to be sent north to replace our

I h A mi i lean Florist.

General Horticultural Exhibition at
Lyons.— The Societe d'Horticulture du Rhone is
organising a general Horticultural. Artistic aud
Industrial Exhibition, to be held at Lyons from
the 3rd to the 12th of November, 1899. This
exhibition will be coincident with the fourth
Cougress of the Societe Francaise ties Chrysauthc
mistes, aud a grand International Chrysanthemum
Congress will be held at the same time. Numerous
prizes, medals, and other awards are offered in
connection with the various sections, the pro-
gramme for which can now be obtained from
M. G. Chabanne, Secretaire-general, Palais des
Arts, Lyon (Rhone). Special railway facilities are
offered to intending exhibitors.

WEST BANK HOUSE, HEATON
MERSEY."

WITHIN a short distance of Stockport, the
great centre of the cotton industry, the beautiful
gardens of J. Leemann, Esq., some 15 acres in
extent, and containing one of the most select and
well-grown collections of Orchids in the country,
afford a remarkable instance of what a successful
man of business with a love of horticulture can
accomplish in a very short time. The beautiful
gardens, and the dwelling-house, with its conserva-
tories, have been brought to their present perfect
state iu less than -four years. The owner of late
has made the more showy Orchids his chief

188

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 25, 1899.

recreation, but not the only one, he having an
earlier hobby in the collection of tropical butter-
flies and moths, both being due to extensive travels
in out-of-the-way parts of the world.

The Orchids.

These plants are elevated to the chief place in
the gardeus, and evidence of them was imme-
diately found in the cut flowers of Cattleya
Trianaei and other species arranged in the dwelling-
house. In the conservatory adjoining the billiard-
room was a line bank of Orchids in flower, which we
were informed is maintained the year round with-
out any noticeable injury to the plants ; firstly,
because the electric light is used; secondly, by
reason of the plants being afforded water with care
and kept dry rather than wet ; and thirdly, the
flowers are cut from the plants when a reasonable
time has elapsed.

This fine bank consisted recently of the finest
selected varieties of Cattleya Triamei, showy 1 »en-
drobiums and OJontoglossums. Of the former the
colours range from pure white, to white with ruby
lip ; and through all shades of colour to rich rose-
crimson, the lorm of the flowers in all cases being
perfect. The handsome West Bank House variety,
is remarkable, not only as regards its flowers,
but from its growth, which suggests Cattleya
Warscewiczii. In the study close at hand
were portfolios of coloured drawings of most of the
finer Orchids, the arrangement of the drawings
rendering comparison easy. Of the Dendrobiums,
the unequalled D. nobile nobilius, of which there
were many specimens, stand out prominently.
Then come D. n. Ballianum, a contrast, the
blossoms being nearly white. D. n. Cooksoni,
with its quaintly-coloured petals ; D. n. Cypheri,
white, with maroon centre, and rose-coloured tips ;
D. n. Sauderiauum, one of the most beautiful in
colour and shape ; and others equally good, which
have come with various importations. Of other
Dendrobiums, the handsome forms of theclassofD.
x splendidissimum granditiorurn, which, like the
stronger forms of D. nobile, Mr. Edge, the gardener
at West Bank House, succeeds in getting flowering
growths of upwards of 4 feet in height, and propor-
tionately stout ; D. nobile albiflorum, D. x Ains-
worthi, Cypher's variety ; D. Wardiauum, and
D. W. album, and others appear to advantage.
At the back of the bank were fine specimeus of
Cymbidiums just expanding their flowers, the front
being made up with Cypripediums, which, although
not liked so well by Mr. Leemann as Cattleyas,
Lielias, and hybrids of these genera, are still of use
in decorative arrangements. There were remarked
also C. villosum gigautcum, the finest form of
thespecies ; C. x Creon, C. x uitens superbum,
and the best forms of C. x Calypso, ( '. x
Lathamiauum, Ac.

The Winter Garden.
This structure is on a lower level, aud here were
seen some good Cymbidiums, intermixed with tine
foliage plants. The other plants in this garden
consisted of specimen Camellias, which were
beginning to blossom. Presently the commodious
block of Orchid-houses, constructed under Mr.
Leemann's direction by Messrs. K. Halliday & Co.,
of Middleton, was reached, in which was found a
sturdy collection of Cattleyas, Ladias, and Lwlio-
Cattleyas. The last-named race of crosses, of
which a grand collection was remarked, take the
lead. Flowering for the first time, as we were
told, was a grand novelty iu Cattleya x Octave
Doin, having a flower with a certain resemblance
to C. x Hardyana, but with evidence of C. Men-
deli in the elongated, crimped, ruby-crimson
coloured lip. Other remarkable plants were Ladio-
Cattleya x Amy Leemann and L.-C. x Marguerite
Marou. In both cases L.-C. x Schilleriana is pro-
bably the parent, and not L.-C. x elegans, and the
parentage would seem to indicate forms of L.-C. x
Henry Greenwood— but a comparison has shown
them to be distinct, aa they are ttorally more
showy, especially in the development of the front

part of the lip ; a fine plant of a hybrid
between Cattleya 'Warscewiczii and L.-C. x
Dominiana, said to bear flowers 11 inches across ;
auother between Ladia tenebrosa and L.
Digbyana, and various other singular crosses,
most of which will soou bear flowers. Of other
showy hybrids there are numbers of Lselio-Cattleya

x Canhamiana, L.-C. x callistoglossa, L.-C. X
Aphrodite, and many other showy hybrids which
never fail to afford variety. There were noted
vigorous plants of Ladio-Cattleya Berthe Four-
uier, L.-C. x Aruoldiana, L.-C. x Sallieri, L.-C.

x eximia, L.-C. Gottoiaua, and most of the other
showy Ladio-Cattleyas.

Favourite things, aud especially those certain to
produce tine varieties or natural hybrids, have been
purchased undowered iu quantity, preference being
given to Cattleya anrea. The venture has already
been productive of mauy splendid C. X Hardyana,
aud out of the hundreds still undowered, some
remarkable forms will probably result. More than
one were credited as 'white gigas," and these are
being watched with great expectation.

The Odontoulossum Houses.
These form another notable feature, shariug with
the Dendrobiums the second place after the Ladio-
Cattleyas and Cattleyas. The strain of 0. orispum
is a very tine one, some of the flowers at present show-
ing being circular, aud of large size. One group of
them has been remarkably prolific of crosses, some
splendid 0. Andersouianum, 0. Buckerianum, 0.
Wilckeauum, &c. , having flo.vered out of it. One
of the more beautiful is 0. Wilckeanum var. palleus
(fig. 71), which has nearly white flowers, spotted
with red-brown, aud which, although iu colour
approachiug O. orispum, it forms a well-defined
example of 0. < Wilckeanum, although departing
from the ordinary type of that species. Many
other strange-looking hybrids, or probably spotted
forms of 0. orispum were in bud, and full of pro-
mise. Many fine < I. triumphaus and others were
also iu bloom.

Tin. Dendrobium-hocse

was a scene of luxuriant growth aud good flowers,
and among other remarkable subjects were two of
Cattleya labiata Peetersana superba, which were
carrying flowers of an intense purplish. crimson,
similar iu colour to those on the plant which
recently realised such a large sum of money, but
they were larger, and of better shape. C. Triaua i
Constance Leemann, and C. T. Empress, are two
\ ery distinct and charming varieties ; Lalia anceps
I.eemanni, the largest aud finest-coloured L. ancep .
two superb, round-flowered Vanda ccerulea; some
fine LycasteSkinneri alba; Odontoglossum Rucker-
ianum illustre, a very showy form, were remarked.
In every class only those which are superior are
retained.

Tin; Gardens.
The laud forms an undulating slope towards the
south, aud the chief noticeable features are the
immeuse beds and borders of fine Rhododendron
hybridum, which in their season must form a
gorgeous display. The garden is protected by
plantations of Hollies and Conifers, whose frout
borders are filled with bulbous and herbaceous
perennial plants. Here and there we noted beds
planted with Carnations aud Auriculas : and
beyoud is a large fish-pond, fed by a natural spring.
To the left is a miniature farmyard, and beyond
this come the tine new ranges of fruit-houses aud
the kitchen-garden, and at the further extremity of
the last is the gardener's house. The whole is
brought into communication by telephone ; time
and labour-saving appliances appear on all hands,
and but little could be suggested to improve Mr.
Leemann's plan, which embraces the making of
a new garden to look like an old one, aud to
further which idea fine old standard Hollies. Irish
Yews, &c, are introduced, and climbing Hoses
aud other rustic trailers profusely arranged m
salient spots.

Home Correspondence.

— • —

ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND.— "A. I).''
made some pertiueut remarks on the above Fund
in the Journal of Horticulture on February '23.
He deplores the fact that not one of the fathers of
the nineteen children nominated for election this
year had been a subscriber to the Fund, and also
to the indifference of gardeners generally iu not
becoming subscribers, aud asks, " Can anyone
explain it?" I am afraid it is difficult of expla-
nation. A glance at the list of subscribers for
1897 reveals the fact that many men occupying
prominent positions as head gardeners do uct sub-
scribe to the Fuud, aud whom we may assume
could well afford the sum of 5s. or more per annum.
It is possible the claims of the Fuud have not been
brought home to them by personal solicitation ; but
the large majority of gardeners are poorly paid, and
can ill afford even the small sum of 5g. per year
[This cannot lie true of gardeners as a class. En.],
aud especially as they have no guarantee that their
children will receive the benefits of the Fund
should they require it. As a worker for eight
years on behalf of the Fuud, I have solicited scores
of gardeners to become annual subscribers, and
what is the result? I have four gardeners on my
book, the remainder being nurserymen aud private
ladies aud gentlemen. Some whom I have asked
say, " We have no guarantee that we shall receive
any benefit : we have no voice in the management,
as we live at too great a distance from the place of
meeting. It is those living near who can do as they
like, and pull the strings on behalf of any candi-
dates for election." I do not endorse these views,
but have every confidence in the executive com-
mittee ; aud I should like to impress ou the great
body of gardeners the necessity of becomiug aunual
subscribers, aud if there is anything in connection
with the Fund they do not approve of, let them make
it kuown through the horticultural press or other-
wise. I kuow from experience the editors are
pleased to give the humblest individuals every
opportunity to express their grievances. The time
will come when it will be the children of sub-
scribers who will benefit by the Fund ; but it mint
not be two children from one family to the exclu-
sion of children from other families whose claims
are equal or more deserving. At the last annual
inn ting the following was added to Rule XI. : —
''Not more than two children of the same family
cau be in receipt of the benefits of the Fund at the
same time." Previously, the rule did not specify
how mauy children from one family might receive
the benefit of the Fund. But why should two of
one family receive the benefit of the Fuud, while
other families are left out' Surely the Fuud is
meaut to benefit a number of families, aud not the
few. At the present time eight families have each
two children ou the Fund, each child being allowed
5s. per week. Mr. A. Dean suggested that at a
future time it would be expedieut to insist that
there must be four children under 12 years of
age in a family before two of its members could be
on the Fund at the same time. I do not agree with
him there. I suggest that only one child from a
family shall receive the benefit of the Fund, uuless
under exceptional circumstances, such as the loss
of both parents. Also, I would further suggest,
that should the circumstances of the case require
it, the child of a deceased subscriber who has sub-
scribed for five or more years, shall be entitled to
the benefit of the Fund without election. Or, the
child might be allowed twenty or more votes for each
year the father had subscribed. I know these
suggestions require consideration, but it is iu the
interest of the Fund I make them, and I expect to
hear the opinions of others ; and possibly the
Executive Committee may be induced to consider
them, aud so make the Fund of still greater
benefit, and, perhaps, by so doing the great body (f
gardeners will be encouraged to become subscribers.
./. /,'. Stevenwn, Hon, Local Secretary, Bournemouth.

FRUIT PROTECTORS.— I expect to learn that
your readers regard the celluloid Pear-protectors
shown reeeutly to the Fruit Committee, and figured
iu the Gardener*' Chronicle last week as toys. The
Committee recommended that some of them should
be tried on Pears at Chiswick this year against
the old method of enclosing the fruit iu muslin
bags. Pears suffer most from the birds in pecking
small holes near the stems. Fish netting, which
by enclosing the entire tree keeps off these pests,
should be by far the cheapest and simplest of
protectors. A. D.

March 25, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

189

WINTER ACONITES FLOWERING BADLY.— I
have never known so few flowers as there have
been this year ou the Wiuter Aconites in propor-
tion to the leaves, which are abundant and
vigorous. I might attribute this to the dense
growth of the seedlings, but Aconites do not seem
to wear out the soil where growing thick, or to
mind its exhaustion by tree roots. I recollect
more than half a century ago how thickly they
flowered under the Lime-trees at the back of Si.
John's College, Cambridge, and I dare say they do
so still. Lack of flowers has not been general amongst
early spring plants, as Crocuses, Anemone blauda,
Cyclamen Coum, Leucoium vernum, never flowered
better. With regard to Leucoium, I see it stated
that a robust variety, which generally bears two
flowers on a scape, and is called carpaticum, has
yellow tips to the flowers. My experience is, that
the robust forms have generally green tips ; many
of these bear throe flowers on a scape here ; and I
lately gathered one, not a faseiation, but a well-
formed scape, with live flowers. C. WoUey Dod,
Edgt Hall.

LYCHNIS VISCARIA SPLENDENS PLENA.— The
above variety of Lychnis, though a descendant of
the British species, L. Viscaria, must not be sup-
posed to be the old red or flore-pleuo of gardens,
but it is, as the name implies, an improved form,
producing large panicles of brilliant rose-coloured
flowers. Growers who require hardy, enduring
herbaceous plants, will do well to make a no'.e of
it. William Earley.

THALICTRUM AQUILEGIFOLIUM ATROPUR-
PUREUM, a very showy dark-Howered form of the
Austrian Meadow Rue, was again noticeable at one
of the late Royal Botanic Society's exhibitions.
Growers, pending the distribution of such a tine
form, should meantime grow Thalietrttm aquilegi-
folium purpureum, as being a good contrast with
Thalictrum angustifolium with pale yellow flowers,
and T. aquilegium (white and bluish-pink varieties).
T. minus (syn. adiantifolium) requires to be well-
grown to make it really effective. William Earley.

SOLANUM MACROCARPUM.-Solnnum macro-
carpum, like .S. capsicastrum anil others, is
valuable by reason of its fruits, which are smooth -
skinned and red in colour, suggestive of small
Tomatos. The plant is of dwarf, compact habit,
and is very valuable for the decoration of the
greenhouse during winter. The fruits are per-
sistent for some months, even after the leaves have
fallen. Its propagation may be easily effected by
means of seeds, which germinate readily in any
light compost. When the seedlings are of sufficient
size to handle, they should be potted oil and
grown on without a check. In June the plants
should be transferred into the fruiting-pots, which
may be from 7 to 8 inches in diameter. The plants
require a fairly rich compost, consisting of loam,
leaf-mould, and well-decomposed manure in equal
parts, and a little sand. When they have become
well established they may be stood out in the
open, removing them again to the house directly
the fruits change colour, which under ordinary
circumstances will take place during September.
I have seen excellent examples of this plant grown
at Kew. /'. Holt, Wentworth Gardens.

THE SHAMROCK.— An evening journal, apropos
of St. Patrick's Day, raises the question of the
identity of the true Shamrock. " The Shamrock,"
says a writer in the Church Gatette, "was held
sacred by several nations in antiquity, aud endowed
by them with mysterious and magical virtues. It
was used as a means of detecting evil spirits. To
rind a four-leaved Clover is an indication of happi-
ness. When put under the pillow, it ensures
dreams of your lover. When placed surreptitiously
into the pocket of your friend it will secure his
constancy. A two-leaved Trefoil, plucked at the
time of the Ave Maria, is a sign that you will soon
be married, and live happily ever after.'' This
shows that the Shamrock was something more
than a national emblem ; and so far as the testi-
mony is valuable, makes the Trefoil to be the Irish
Shamrock. Commenting on this, the evening
paper (Echo) has an enquiry from a correspondent
—"Which plant is the real Shamrock!" and it
states that " the question has more than once been
put to a scientific test in Ireland, by collecting
numbers of specimens worn by the people, and
classifying them. They are always, or almost
always, a species of Clover. Most ofteu, the small

yellow-flowered Clover, the smallest species, we
believe indigenous to these Islands— that is, the
Shamrock of Ireland to-day. But there is little
doubt that the plant originally blessed by St.
Patrick was the Wood-sorrel, a much more striking
and handsome plant than the obscure little Clover
now used by Irish people everywhere, which will
be worn so widely to-day. The Wood-sorrel also
conforms to the early tradition that the ' Sham-
roque of Ireland was pungent, and good to eat.'
The latter (Oxalis Acetosella) is indigenous to Ire-
hind, and it has trifoliate foliages. Spencer in his
view of the Slate of Ire/and, tells us that the
Irish, 'if they found a plot of Watercresses or
Shamrocks there, they flocked as to a feast for a
time ; ' " Shamrocks in this case being undoubtedly
the Wood-sorrel. /'., March 17.

"EARLIEST OF ALL" WALLFLOWER. — This
variety, sent out by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, has
proved useful at Belvoir during the past winter.
The seeds of these winter flowers were sown early
in June last, and the seedlings in due time trans-
planted, and early in October the plants were
covered with flowers, and they were then removed
tn the flower-garden, where flowers have been pro-
duced ever since: thus, in a mild winter like that
of 1 Mis. tin, lengthening the Wallflower season by
about six months. All who cherish and admire
these sweet-scented old-world flowers should make
a point of growing " Earliest of All," under which
name it was kindly sent to me for trial three years
ago. Doubtless it will soon receive other names,
like many other good things. The older varieties
of Wallflowers, seeds of which were sown at the
same time, and the plants treated similarly, arc
just displaying the colour of their flowers, aud the
same may be said of the old double yellow, plants
of which are, however, always raised from slips,
and have to be accommodated with a warmer
position out of doors than the others. W. II ■ Divers,
Belvoir Castii <:<tr<l< ns.

ACACIA DEALBATA. A specimen of this plant,
the " Mimosa," of the London florists and the
Riviera cultivators, can now be seen in flower on a
south wall at Belvoir. It was transferred from a
flowerpot early in 1894, and in the following
winter, when the thermometer on the grass fell to
8 below /eio, - Id ol cold, the plant was killed
to the ground ; but next year it threw up a shoot
which has grown until, at the preseut time, it is
12 feet in height. Another plant put out on the
grass in the Duchess's garden is also showing
several hunches of flowers ; but this is later than
the plant against the south wall. This plant had
to be transplanted last year, and its growth
suffered in consequence; but it now measures 14
feet in height and 8 feel in width. Doubtless the
recent mild winters have favoured these plauts, for
the only protection they have received has con-
sisted of a heap of coal-ashes placed over the roots
during three winter months. Is there any record
of this plant flowering outside before in this
country'; [Yes, in Mr. Ewbank's garden at Ryde,
l.W. Ed.] W. H. Divers, Belvoir CastU Gardens,
Grantham.

RICHARDIAS. — Some time since, the summer
treatment of these plauts was discussed in these
pages, especially in regard to planting out. The
champions of the two methods having had their
say, the matter was droppd. Calling at Stoke
Park, Slough, the other day, I noticed one of the
best lot of these plants that I have ever observed,
the plants of unusual strength, and profusely fur-
nished with spathes, several of these comiug from
one sheath. The plants had been grown out-of-
doors during the summer ; and the secret of
success appeared to lie in re-pottiug being carried
out before the plants had made much growth, that
is, just as the first leaves begin to unfold. Mr.
Kemp pots the plants in the smallest pots the roots
will go into, and then he has them placed in a
shady position until they are somewhat re-estab-
lished, and afterwards in a light airy house. They
receive liberal applications of liquid manure, with
the result that an abundance of spathes are pro-
duced of unusual size and substance. C. II.

IVY LEAVES EATEN. —Some leaves of Ivy have
beeu sent me from Manchester, showiug marks of
having been bitten by some kind of insect. The
plant grows on the walls of a house, and the sender
of the leaves states that he has many times dili-
gently sought for the marauders but failed to find
them. Now Ivy is looked upon as being distasteful

to insects. It has been suggested that SDails
are the culprits, and it may be that they are. Has
anyone had similar experience of Ivy leaves being
so eaten, and can they name the cause ? JR. D.

THE WEATHER IN LEICESTERSHIRE— This
morning, March 21, the thermometer in the
Stevenson screen registered 17 of cold, and oue
fully exposed 15°; while the one on the grass in-
dicated 20', which is very severe for this time of
the year. Many of the expanded flowers of the
Peach and Apricot are destroyed, although they
were protected by doubled fish netting ; aud Peas,
sown in November and niue inches in height, are
much injured. W. II- Divers, Belvoir Castle Gdns.

IN CHESHIRE. — It is twenty-six months

since I have registered so low a minimum tempe-
rature as occurred here on the 22nd inst., viz., 11"
on a double-column thermometer, hung exposed
4 feet from the ground. On Jan. 24, 1897, it was
15°. The three nights of March 18, 19, 20, min. 19%
21 , 17'. I need hardly say great damage is done to
spring flowers. I have never before seen the flowers
of Erythronium dens-canis quite destroyed by cold
as they now are. C. W. Dod, Eihje Hall, Ma/pax.

IN NORFOLK. — The calm, dry, cold

weather which we have experienced throughout
the month up to Saturday morning, 18th inst.,
gave way to strong winds coming from N. E. back
to X. and N. W., with very cold weather. And snow
fell frequently during Sunday and heavily at night,
and on Monday at 6 P.M. there was snow to a depth
of six inches ; and the day remained cold, and there
was less wind by 8.30 p.m. The thermometer fell
to 24°, and by this morning it had fallen to ">', thus
registering 27 ' of frost, and at 6.30 a.m. 22° of frost
— an unusual degree of cold for this part of the
season. The day is fine so far, but the snow
remains in shady places. /. Batters, Gilliugham,
Norfolk.

■ IN BEDFORDSHIRE.— An unusually low

temperature was registered here this morning,
March 22, which is likely to prove iujurioua
to the most forward Gooseberries and Pears,
though none of the latter have their blossoms ex-
panded. We had a fall of snow yesterday to the
depth of two inches, aud this was followed by an
exceedingly clear and still night. At the lowest
part of the farm, a tested radiation thermometer
on the ground recorded the minimum as minus 2,8",
or nearly 3' below zero, Fahrenheit. The elevation
above sea-level is about 240 feet, and the position
of the thermometer is near a watercourse. H. L.
Castle, Woburn Experimental Fruit Farm, Beds.

EUCALYPTUS.— I think the interesting articles
which have recently appeared in the Gardeners'
Chronicle cannot have been seen by Mr. Bateman,
the owner of a remarkable avenue of Eucalyptus
Gunni ou his estate at Brightlingsea Hall, near
Colchester. I saw the trees in August, 1S94, many
of them being of large size and well-formed speci-
mens. They appeared to be perfectly hardy, and
had beeu growing outside for some years. I was
told that the trees bloomed and seeded freely, and
that some of the seeds were collected annually and
sown in drills in the kitchen garden, and the
seedlings pricked out in nursery lines, and finally
planted in the woods, &c. If Mr. Bateman would
kindly record his experience with this Eucalyptus,
and state the size of bis largest trees, I am sure
many of your readers would be pleased. G. W.
Cummins, Balmedie, Aberdeen.

Nursery Notes,

MESSRS. JOHN LAING & SONS.

The principal floral display at the preseut time
in the well-known Forest Hill Nurseries, is due to
the fine collection of Cliveias there cultivated. Of
early spring-flowering greenhouse plants, none are
more popular than the Chinese Primrose and the
Cyclamen, and partly in consequence, both of these
plants have been vastly developed in recent years.
But the Cliveia, though its qualities are very
different to those possessed by the Primula or
Cyclamen, has nevertheless characteristics that
make it valuable at this season. Among green-
house plants it is essentially hardy, never requiring
much heat, and seldom injured by exposure

190

THE GABDEXERS' CHEOXICLE,

[March 25, 1899.

in a cold dwelling-room or to draughts. When
potted in a moderately rich compost, the plants
will thrive well for several years, and need not bo
repotted unless the pots are very full iudecd of
roots. Until this is the case, the plants remain
perfectly healthy, and flower very satisfactorily
upon occasional applications of liquid manure.

In regard to flowering, a single plant usually
produces two spikes of bloom in the season, and
occasionally three. The spikes carry upon an
average from twelve to twenty-four blooms each,
and they have been known to produce as many as
thirty-six. If a single plant in an 8-inch pot will
produce forty flowers per year, nothing more, it
would seem, could be expected. .Since the well-
known 0. (or Imantophyllum) miuiatum was
introduced to gardens, very many seedling varie-
ties have been raised by Messrs. Laing and others,
that vary in the tints and form of the flowers, and
in the habit of the inflorescence. The petals are
less pointed, more imbricate, and the corolla being
more round, the flower has some resemblance in
form to that of the Vallota purpurea. Such seed-
lings, with compact trusses of distinctly marked
flowers, are undoubtedly very handsome and useful
for decorative purposes as plants or as cut blooms.

In Messrs. Laing's collection may now be seen a
number of these modern varieties, and of such the
following are some of the best : \V. P. Leeeh,
bright red ; Comet, Queen Victoria, Harry Laing,
one of the very best ; Fascination, Lord Rosebery,
Fireball, Sunrise, Princess Frederick, a light-
coloured one ; Advance, Her Majesty, Lady Wolver-
ton, &c. Miss Ellen Terry was not yet in good
form, but the variety is a very choice one. Sala-
mander, too, may be recommeaded as one of the
best to date. As we have said, the varieties differ
chiefly in tint of colour and in the form of the
flowers, and these variations are most obvious
when each can be compared with the other.

.In other departments of the nursery, work is
plentiful at this seasoo. The tuberous Begonias,
for instance, that bear so much evidence of the
result of cross fertilisation, a work in which Mr.
John Laing, senior, was the first to engage, are
in various stages of growth. Seedlings have yet to
be "pricked off," and thousands already so isolated
are growing freely. The earliest plants are
already vigorous specimens in 5-inch pots.

Writing of Begonias, reminds us of several varie-
ties of Begonia semperflorens with double flowers.
There were Boule de Neige, Triomphe de Lorraine,
Nancy, &c. The varieties presented several colours,
and appear to be as free blooming as the single-
flowered ones.

In auother house was a large group of Messrs.
Laing's " multitlora " type of Streptocarpus. These
plants were raised from seeds last season, and are
just commencing to bloom in quantity. From
white to exceeding dark purple, the flowers present
a great variety of shades, and are all pretty.

The Caladiums already present a charming
diversity of tints in the young and delicate foliage
now being produced. That gardeners have need to
be prepared for extreme variations in our much-
discussed weather was instanced on the Nth inst.,
when our visit to Forest Hill was made. During the
previous night there had been lS°of frost there. In
the middle of March such severe weather is scarcely
anticipated.

New Invention.

of having cultivated and reaped these products
one's-self, and having put them into the glasses
with the utmost care and cleanliuess. Also there
is do taste of metal in Week's glasses, such as is
always fouud in tinned goods. Another advantage
is the cheapness of this method, when one's own
garden produce is sterilised, because the amount of
cost cannot be compared with the advantages
gained in wholesomeuess and cleanliness, especially
when one bears in mind the fact that the same
utensils last for years.

Consequently I introduced Week's steriliser
in a hospital here, where the nursing sisters
have been busily occupied ever siuce in steri-
lising the produce of the hospital garden,
in order to give it to the sick people who
are under their care during the winter.
Formerly the sick in this hospital were re-
stricted to such fare as dried fruit and vegetables
stored in the cellar, the hospital not being able to
afford the expense of costly preserves. But now
it is possible to provide the sick at any time with
the choicest preserved fruit and vegetables.

Mr. Week has made his apparatus in several
sizes, and keeps the glasses, lids, and utensils
belonging to it always in stock. The inventor is
always willing to answer any questions, and to
send recipes and prospectuses. Auy of these
articles can lie obtained from Madame Alexandrine
Veigele, 87 and 80, Praed Street, Paddington, W.
Ororg Kerner, physician, Wehr [Baden),

and a small quantity of leaf-soil answers well,
and the pots should be thoroughly drained. Thos.
Coomber.

Law Notes.

WECK'S STERILISER.

An U'T three years ago I made the first experi-
ments with the above method to sterilise fniit and
vegetables in glasses. I chose Cherries, Plums,
Mirabellas, and Pears, and the following vegetables :
Creen Peas, Beans, Carrots and Asparagus. The
result was striking, for not only the sterilised
garden produce, which was sent away in the
middle of winter, was of the choicest quality and
finest flavour, as if taken fresh from the garden,
but also the relish was enhauced by the knowledge

Cultural Memoranda.

THE CLIYEIA.

Mich has been done of recent years id impvw tug
aurl raising new varieties of this plaut, and bringing
them into notice. The cultural treatment the plant
requires is of a very simple nature, and the
immunity it enjoys from injurious insects, combined
with its usefulness, should make it commonly cul-
tivated. It is particularly an amateur gardener's
plant, as it succeeds without much care being
bestowed on it. I lately saw some plants of it,
together with Vallota purpurea and Crassula coc-
cinea, that were grown to great perfection by an
amateur and his wife. Its natural season for
flowering is in the spring and early summer months,
but it readily responds to gentle forcing, and may
thereby be obtained in flower in the winter, and
its flowering season may be thus lengthened. For
ordinary decorative purposes it maybe grown in
small pots, as then it may be pleasingly arranged
in groups or amongst other plants, and small plants
are well adapted for the dwelling-house. When cut-
flowers only are wanted large plants should be
grown, the flower-spikes being then more numerous,
and the labour attendant on affording water is less,
I cultivate numbers of large plants for this pur-
pose, and fiud them very serviceable. The plant
is easily increased from suckers or crowns, taken
oil" when growth begins. To do this safely turn the
plant out of the pot, and separate the suckers with
roots attached, and pot singly in pots suitable to
the size of the suckers ; place in a warm, rather
close greenhouse, giving careful attention in the
matter of affording water, and syringing them daily
after bright sunshine. The pots will be filled with
roots by the autumn, at which season they should
be afforded plenty of air and a drier atmosphere ;
during the winter place them in a cool greenhouse,
and keep the soil tolerably dry. In the following
spring when growth commences they will require
a shift into larger pots. The Cliveia does beat
when its roots are pot-bound, therefore large shifts
should be avoided. I once tried some plauted out,
near to the glass, in a warm greeahouse-border,
but they did not do well, and were ultimately
re-potted. Large plants may be preserved in a
satisfactory state for years, without being re-potted,
aud they will burst their pots from this cause, and
yet be in perfect health. Once they become pot-
bound, manurial aids arc necessary. As a potting
compost, good fibrous loam mixed freely with saud

ASSESSED TAXES.— TREEBY, NURSERY-
MAN, of OLD TRAFFORD, MANCHESTER.
We have received a copy of the correspondence
which has passed between the solicitor to the
Nursery and Seed Trade Association aud the Board
of Inland Revenue : —

"In consequence of the proceedings instituted ngainsl Mr.
1 1 eeby for omitting to take out a licence to keep a gardener,
communications have passed between nurserymen in Man*
Chester and the Nursery and Seed Trade Association, Limited.
The decision in this case seems so far-reaching that it may
affect nurserymen throughout the United Kingdom if a tax
is payable by nurserymen in I'espect of their employing
gardeners under the following circumstances.

"|It is the practiceof nurserymen to contract in writing with
householders (whose gardens are not large enough to require
the entire services of a gardener) to keep their gardens in
order for a fixed sum per annum, and nurserymen for such
purpose agree to send a gardener or gardeners for a day or
several days or portions of a day in each week, according
to the size of the garden and the season of the year. The gai
deners so employed are engaged and paid by the nurserymen,
are under their sole control, can be taken from their work,
and others substituted, as the nurserymen wish.

"Skilled gardeners employed by London nurserymen are
engaged, subject to receiving or giving a week's notice to
leave ; less skilled gardeners arc engaged on the terms thai
they give or receive a day's notice, or a day's pay in lieu
thereof. Both classes, when not engaged in keeping the
gardens of householders in order, work in the nurserymen's
grounds on general work.

"I submit thai the statute 32 <t 33 Vict. c. 14, sect, if),
applies solely to gardeners or under-gardeners engaged by
private individuals for a certain period, and at a fixed salary
i:i the same manner as a butler or under-butler, also men-
tioned in the statute, and not to gardeners employed by
nurserymen on the terms above stated.

" A copy of a letter from the Secretary to the Chancellor
of the Exchequer to .Sir .1. W. Maclure, Hart., M.P., has been
supplied tome as solicitor for the before-mentioned associa-
tion which was established in 1877 by some of the principal
horticulturists to protect and promote the trade of nursery-
men, florists, and seedsmen, and I have been instructed by
the committee of management of such association to enquire
whether your Honourable Board would, for the guidance of
nurserymen, think right, to inform me:—

•■(I). Whether nurserymen who enter into contracts such
as I have referred to, are required to takeout licences for
the number of gardeners they employ to carry out their
contracts ?

"(■J). Whether, if a nurseryman contract with a house-
holder (who does not desire to engage a gardener) to keep his
garden, including hot-houses, in order by the year or for a
shorter term, subject to determination by notice, and the
work is sufficient to occupy the whole time of one man or
more (the nurseryman being at liberty to send what man or
men helike3to do the work)a licence for the gardener or
gardeners so employed by the nurseryman is necessary?

"I am, yours faithfully, Charles Butcher, 30,
Wood Street, Cheapside, London, .Solicitor to the
Nursery and Seed Trade Association, Limited."

" inland Revenue, Somerset House, London, W.C
Manh 14. L899.

"Sir,- With reference to your letter of the 4th inst., I am
directed by the Board of Inland Revenue to state, that as, so
far as they are aware, the appeal in t lie case of Mr. James
l :<ley is to be proceetle 1 with, they do not coosider it con-
venient to discuss the liability of a nurseryman to licence
duty in respect of gardeners employed by him and furnished
on hire, upon any genera! basis.

" lint it' you have any pecitie case of a servant so employed
and furnished on bin-, upon which a question of liability t<>
jeenee duty is raised, the Board will be ready to deal with it
upon receiving the full particulars.—! am, Sir, your obedient
servant, Arc. II. Browne, Assistant-Secretary."

" < Iharles Butcher, Esq.''

©bituarp.

THOMAS SiBBALD.— Ou March 17 last there
passed away at Elm Bauk, Bishop Auckland, at
the age of seventy -two years, Mr. Thomas Sibbald,
of the Escombe Nurseries iu that town. The
Sibbalda were of Scottish descent, and the founder
of the Escombe Nurseries, Mr. .Sibbald's grand-
father, held distinguished office under the Bishop
of the diocese, Dr. Shute Barriugton, over a century
ago. These nurseries have remained in the pos-
session of the Sibbald family for more than three
generations. The deceased, for more than forty

March '25, 1899.]

THE GARDE NE R S ' CHR 0 XI CLE.

191

years, had carried on an extensive business as nur-
seryman, seedsman, and florist ; he was, moreover, a
useful and prominent citizen, and had greatly helped
in inaugurating or carrying out numerous works of
public utility in Bishop Auckland. The business
will he carried on by hi3 son. Mr. T. Sibbald.

William Murray, of Parkhall Gar-
dens. — We regret to record the death of
Mr. William Murray, the gardener at Parkhall,
which took place on Saturday, March 11. The
deceased was sixty years of a«r, and for a period
of thirty-three years he had been gardener to Mr.
Livingstone, Learmouth. Few men in Scotland
have attained so great an amount of success as a
Grape and Tomato grower as the deceased for
twenty years past. His exhibits of fruit, and of
Grapes especially, have always been iu the winning
positions at the Edinburgh and Glasgow shows.
His fame as a cultivator was widely known, aud
many visitors went to Parkhall to see the enormous
crops of remarkably handsome bunches of Grapes.
Last year the amount of the crop and the quality
were equal to any previous season. The Vines,
too, by fine firm wood and immense glossy foliage,
tcstilied to the skill of a master-hand.

Mr. Murray's talents and his zeal for the welfare
of his fellows was widely known, aud greatly appre-
ciated throughout the district. Among local
institutions, Mr. Murray was an able member of
School Board at Muiravou Side ( where his remains
were interred on Wednesday, March lf>). He leaves
a widow aud one son. The latter now represents
the firm of Win. Murray & Son, which was formed
two years ago by renting a large portion of the
entensive ranges of glass at Parkhall, and a number
of acres of laud for market purposes, .1/. '/'• mph,
Carroii, X. />'.

William E. H. Baker. — We regret to
learn of the death on Monday morning last, after a
protracted illness, of Mr. W. E. II. BAKER, eldest
son of Mr. W. E. Baker, proprietor of the Thames
Lank Iron Co. Mr. BAKER was a young man of
great promise, and until stricken down some three
years ago took an active pail in the I'pper Ground
Street business, and was much respected by the
trade.

and the fungus bore colourless spores of two kinds. Your
correspondent suggests infection from Tomato-disease, pre-
viously present in the same house. We find that the two
forms of fungus conidia (and only two are present) occurring
on this Dahlia material at'- almost (but not exactly) identical
in form with those figured by Mr. Massee (flmitnerd Chronicle,
1895) in connection with the Tomato ' sleepy disease.
Whether tins is a eoincidem e or a connection, ii is as yet too
early to say. There is, however, little doubt thai this Dahlia

disease affects the cuttings in tie- same waj as the ve

Tomato-disease. It has its origin in the soil.

" Remedies.— Your correspondent has tried sulphur in the
soil with somegood effect. S i fungicide, however, will be so
beneficial as —

" 1. Fresh clean soil.

"2. Ventilation, as fat as it can be given.

" ::. To water the freshly-struck cuttings as little as possible

till tlie\ to] in ;

■• 4. To useh hich have I ;hly dis-

infected,and to have houses and benches washed down with
a limewasli,

" In addition to these Mr. Massee n tor the

Tomato '!i^ aae, ) « ;!- m ;cll I in tie- - >il a- the plant

will stand. How far lie-, <■ measures can be carried out must
lie with the discretion of the grower." Dr. Midler suggested
sterilising it bj baking :ie- soil.

Byhrid IV — i. Sotni i - iens were eceived from Rev.
C, Wollej Dod, iv iiii Hi-- following remarks :— " I Bond ■< spon-
taneous hybrid which lias come in one of my flower beds. It
is presumably N. pseudo-Narcissus var. minimus N. cycla-
nuneus. I also enclose specimens "f the parents, i consi lei
N. cyclamineus one oi the best marked species of thegenus
It is the only one which lias tie- perianth almost sessile on
the fruit. Mr. G. Ma ed to no- that it might be

produ i by N. minimus N. trinndras, but lie overlooked

this cliaractei tie- tubeof X. triandrus beingvery long. In

tie- hybrid sent the tu diate between that of the

parent . The trunk ol the perianth follows neither parent,
being cylindrical, whilst that of N. p. minimus t--iels to be
funnel-shaped, ami that ol X. cyclamineus is always ventri-
cose and contrai ted towards the mouth. X cyclamineus is a
profuse pollen-bearer and seed-bearer, but the bulb, with me
at Least, is short lived, and requires constant renewal from
seed. I have a No observed in another bed a hybrid, X. cycla-
milieus x X. pseudo Narcissus, of some larger variety. The
(1. \ loped tube and - with certainty

i-i pseudo- Nee- ssus, though the perianth is c
ii-t!. \---l Rs oi cyclamineus."

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

March \l Present: Dr. M. T. Masters(in Mir chair); Dr.
Mull. 'i', Mi. E P. in Thurra, and Rev. G. Henslow, Hon, Si e,

, .., Diseased. — Some roots were received from ;i nursery
firm, with tin.* following communication : " First, we started
our nit, is in lit- manner we have done foi years with the best
results— namely, on a hot bench, taking cuttings within three
weeks of their insertion, and gradually lessening the heat as
time went on. Se ondly, the first batch tins season was
Muni-, hat soft, and all failed; not, however, by damping off,
but from the effects iff the dis tase. Thirdly, last season we
had magnificent strikes, but ne*r the close of the Beason, tin'
" spot "—as on the specimen sent— made its appearance, bul
was verj limited. Fourthly, t!ie bottom heat was maintained
at about 70°, while the top was about I5aless. Fifthly, can
the Tomato-disease have become incorporated with the soil,
as Totn Ltus liad been grown then*; and lias this any relation
tu tlie disease or cause of the trouble? Sixthly, all the roots
were placed in comparatively new soil, although some of the
obi may have been mixed with it. Seventhly, the house is
well aired, and the cuttings were linn when taken off. As to
remedies, we have applied sulphur with satisfactory n suits :
so far as it killed the fungus at the root ami allowed fresh
clean growth t" he made, but it had no apparent effect on the
cuttings. They went off by the score. We have hitherto
been most successful in Dahlia cultivation, and have had mis-
fortunes, too, but this disease completely baffles us. The
result is the same, both with hard-grown forced exhil ition
roots, and those grown without fori

The following valuable report on the preceding was received
from Dr. \V. G. Smith. Yorkshire College, Leeds, to whom a
vote of thanks was unanimously accorde 1 :

" The Dahlia cuttings when received showed various stages
of blackened discoloration, where they had been in contact
with the soil, and also on the older leave?, 'specially where
ihey joined the stem. Where the blackening was worst the
tissues were filled with bacteria, ami fungus filaments were
present. After a few days in a moist chamber the cuttings
became black and mtten, the bacteria were more abundant,

hard centres, and Nature will then repair the loss by develop-
ing the symmetry of the flower. This applies to the Japanese
varieties. Treat the incurved similarly, but see that the
blooms are made to droop, or to hang to the side, for this
helps them to idl up, ami develop a close, full centre. The
removal of defei tive petals should be gradual.

After ■ for staging cut blooms, Mr. Stiles

concluded by giving a selection of twenty-four Japanese and
twelve incurved varieties, specially valuable for exhibition.

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT MUTUAL
IMPROVEMENT.
Mari ii 15.- \n ordinary > eeting of th ■ ab ■■■ ■
held on the above d it.', Mr. w . Pope presiding. Afterthe usual

rOUl in-- bnsineSS

Mi. ]'. Haskett, gT. to .f. W, Rhodes, Esq ,Hei
a very pi ; on " Bu Idling and G illus-

trating his remarks by prepared Blips, buds, and grafts, and
showing the manner in which the latter should be inserted.
Directions were given for ensuring success in tin- three
methods most largely practised: Toi rig, cleft-

grafting, ami Baddle-grafting.

Mr, i oleb] (Hon, : d tnstrui live paper <>u

'Tli- Wars of the Plants, showing that plants carry on a
hind ol warfare, in which tli co ' torious.

ii was pointed out that the "survival-of tin- fittest
meaningless term in the vegetable world. A long disi

took place on the papers, L Votes of 'flunks were ;.-■■

to the readers. Messrs. Pope, Robbins, Greenaway, and
Full brook exhibited I '■ Cinerarias, Narcissi, and

■ i ively.

BRIGHTON AND SUSSEX HORTICUL-
TURAL AND MUTUAL IMPROVE-
MENT ASSOCIATION.

March 16.— The monthly meeting of this Association was
held at the School of Science and Technology on the above
dab . Mr. vv. Bali ii is, dun., in the chair, Mr, *•- Miles, vice.

Mr. T. W. Sanders gave an in* ture upon the

"Scientific ami Practical Aspect of Plant Propagation,'
which he illustrated by diagrams. The different methods of
propaga ion were dealt with in a practical manner, viz., by
- ed cuttings, leaves, grafting, budding, ami inarching. The
lecturer also fully explained the processor seed -germination,
the length of time it took for various seeds to germinate, and
the conditions that wen.- most favourable to germination.

The lecture was much appreciated by a large audience, con-
sisting of members and friends. A unanimous vote of thanks
w:is given to Mr. Sanders for ins lecture, and a short dismssion
folio v id.

CHESTER PAXTON.

Marcu IS. -At this meeting, Mr. John Jackson was to
have read n paper on \ i ■ i ulture,' but was prevented
■ "ii account of illness. In his absence. Mr.
John Taylor (Hoole Hall), and the Hon. Secretary of the
Socii e short addresses on the Potato,

both of which gave rise to a considerable amounl o(
discussion.

The principal points dealt with were the cutting and
sprouting of tubers before planting, the best manures to use,
and the classes of soils best .suited for successful culture;
spraying with Bordeaux Mixture, as a means of preventing
ead of lunged diseases ; and the best varieties to use
for successional crops.

Mention was nude ..f the interesting series of Potato trials
: the Cheshire Agricultural Si ho. a, under the direction
of Mr. Gordon, Principal of that Institution, as an excellent
means of ascertaining the best varieiii s to suit local districts
A'collection of some thirty-six varieties was staged, and
those which found most favour with the audience were
Up-to-Date, The Dickson, Sutton's Reliance, Mr. Breesee,
Cheshire Prince, General Roberts, Snowdrop, and Clarke's
Maincrop, which was admitted by all to be the best-flavoured
late varietj yet introduced, although not so heavy a cropping
variety as some of the others.

B the memb rs dispersed, the President (Mr. John

Wynne) proposed a Vote of Thanks to Mr. Taylor and Mr.
Miln, which was seconded by Mr. Barnes (Baton Gardens)
who recommended Early Ringleader as the best and most
profitable variety for pot-work and For early borders.

DEVON AND EXETER GARDENERS'.

March 15.— The 3ul jeel d scussed al the hist meeting of

the Society was "Chrysanthemums and their Culture, with

Hints on Dress I Judging Cut Blooms," the

essaj 1st being Mr. G. Stiles, gr. to Miss Finer, The Grovi .

Teigm ith.

The best time to si ■ for exhibition purposes

said the essayist, was in December; and in the case of sorts
which are later in producing suck is. not later than February.
Cuttings will strike readily in boxes of about 2 inch -
containing light soil, and :■' ■ ■ d in a frame with a gentle
bottom-heat of say 35 ping them as near the glass

;i- possible, and sprinkling overheal with tepid water. In
sunny weather they need the protection of a light shading.
When the cuttings have become well rooted, and are potted
oft into small pots, give them a little heat t i excite root-
action, but afterwards the h -- ■ ■> Idling given them, the better.

Mi. stiles subsequen d tu< necessary details in

the cultivation of the plant- during the spring and summer,
II intended for exhibition, said the lecturer, the flower-buds
must be selected between the end of July and the middle of
September. When this has been done, all shoots produced
subsequently should be removed at once From the end of
July until the blooms are cut, a little liquid-manure with
every alternate watering will be beneficial. A good liquid,-
inanme may be obtained by immersing a bag of fowls' .lung
and soot in a barrel of water. From the first week in Sep-
tember a bi-weekly dose of sulphate of ammonia is bi
— ibout 4 ii.:. to 5 gallons of water.

Begin tu dress the blooms twhen they are only half open,
removing any malformed, crooked, or superfluous florets or

CORNWALL DAFFODIL AND SPRING
FLOWER SHOW.

i h 21.— The third show of Ibis Society was opened in
the Concert Hall, Truro, on Tuesday, March 21, under the very
'inusiial ronilitinjis for Cornwall of most inclement weather.
iveringthe ground. The occasion was made memor-
able by the visit of a deputation from the Royal Horticultural
consisting of the Rev. W. Wilks, Secretary, Mr.
C. E. Shea, Rev. G. H. Engleheart, and Mr. G. Bunyard.

The show In every way maintained itsreputation. indeed the
demands for space overtaxed the room at disposal. The
■ lie ct ion of Narcissi sent from Scilly by Mr. T. A.
i •.-Smmii, Mr. D. H. Shilson's magnificent Rhododen-

drons, ami th" several noble collections of (lowering shrubs
were the salient features of the exhibition, but the many

C Elections of Narcissi, Violets, and other spring flowers staged

by amateurs, were of high excellence. The deputation made
the following special awards on behalf of the Royal Hortieul-
tnral Si cii t1- .

A Gold Medal toT. Algernon Dorries'-Smith, Esq., Tresro
Abbey, Scilly, for a collection of more than 100 varieties of
Daffodils I itive of the invaluable work done by him

for the floral industry of Cornwall."

A Gold Medal to D. H. Shilsos, Esq., for Rhododendrons,
very many being i t his own raising.

A Sihvr gut Flora Medal bo Messrs. R. Veiti h, of Exeter,
for a collection of rare shrubs.

Silver Flo,a Medals to Messrs, Howard Fox for flowering
; and John Nii holl for Bamboos, &c.

A Silver Banksian Medal to Rout. Fox, Esq., for dowering
shrubs

The following exhibitors were highly commended :—T>. H.
Shilson, Esq., for hardy spring-flowers; M. IT. Williams,
Esq., for flowering shrubs ; J. C. Daubuz, Esq., ditto ; Capt.
PlNWKLL, for extraordinary specimens of Narcissus maximus :
Andrew Lawry, Varfell, Mount .- Bay, tor Market Narcissi.

In declaring the show open, J, C. Williams, Esq., the Presi-
dent, welcom d the deputation and expressed the thanks of
tie- local Society for their presence. He pointed out that
they had com./ so for, out of no mere passing complin
hoping to recogn se and encourage what was in truth a serious

192

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 2.1, 1899.

enterprise, namely the advancement of a worthy and profit-
able industry in Cornwall.
The Rev. G. H. Englelieart in his reply on benall ol tne

deputation, called attention to the manner in which the
farming of flowers, fruit, and vegetables, was fast occupying
the ground vacated l.y agriculture, and urged the importance
or all localities specially favoured by soil and climate, making
;, full use of their advantages. Flown- shows were no longer

mere assemblies for amuse nt, but opportunities for

amateursand professionals to meet on common ground, and
exhibit and ascertain all that is of the best. The past history
of the Royal Horticultural Society itself was both a warning
and an encouragement to local societies— there was a time
when, perhaps, it overlooked its practical and proper work
for what was mere fashion ami amusement, but from the time
that it had become a truly working horticultural society its
success had been assured. Let this Cornish Society bear in
mind that its shows were no mere pastime, but a sign of and
an incentive to an actual work— the furthering of this great
industry of the county, and it would go on from things already
good to things even worthier.

The judges other than those representing the Royal Horti-
cultural Society were Miss Willmott, I-'. W. Burbidge, M.A.
ami Mr. Ilott.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENG-
LAND ORCHID.

March !>.— At a meeting held at the Coal Exchange, Man-
chester, on the above date, there were present Messrs.
Q. Shorland Call (chairman), W. Thompson, T. Statter,
A. Warhurton, H. Greenwood," J. Leemann, G. W. Law-Scho-
tield, P. Weather.!, J. Cypher, R. Johnson, \V. Stevens,
.1 Robson, and T. Mills, hon. sec.

W. Thompson, Esq., The Grange, Stone (gr., Mr. Stevens),
showed Dendrobium Thompsonianum (nobile Cypheri x cliel-
tenhamensis) (Award of Merit); and a group of Odontoglos-
snms (Silver Medal).

Thomas Stattbr, Esq., Stand Hall, Whitefield (gr., Mr.
Johnson), showed Ceelogyne cristata alba (First-class Certifi-
cate), Dendrobium splendidissinmni grandifiorum (Cultural
Certificate), D. s. giganteum (Award of Merit), D. nobile
nobilius (Cultural Certilicate) ; also a group of miscellaneous
species and varieties (Silver Medal).

S. Gratrix, Esq., Whalley Range (gr., Mr. McLeod),
showed Dendrobium rubens grandifiorum (Award of Merit) ; 1 >.
Luna (Award of Merit), D. Wardianum album (Award ofMerit ).
and Cypripediuni Lebaudyanum (Award of Merit).

Jons Leemann, Esq., Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr. Edge),
showed Denbrobium Wardianum album (First-class Certificate),
L>. Ballianuni, D. Sanders' (Award of Merit), D. nobile albi-
fiornm (Award of Merit), D. splendidissimuin grandifiorum
Thompson's var. (First-class Certificate), Cattleyaspeciosissima
Princess of Wales (First-class Certificate), ' '. Octave Doin
(Mendeli x aurea) (First-class Certificate), Lselio -Cattleya
callistoglossa (First-class Certificate) ; also a very flue miscel-
lane >U5 group (Silver-gilt Medal).

G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., New-Hall-Hey, Rawtenstall
(gr., Mr. Shill), showed Dendrobium nobile giganteum (Award
of Merit), I), n. Flsheri (Award of Merit), D. Doris (Leechia-
nuiu ■ inonili forme) (First-class Certificate), D. euosmnm
virginalis (endocharis x nobile) (Award of Merit), D. .lube
(aureum x Linawianum) (Award of Merit), Lycaste Skinneri
alba (First-class Certificate), and Odontoglossum crispum
virginale (First -class Certificate).

A. Warbl-kton, Esq . Haslingden (gr., Mr. Lofthouse),

slowed a yellow variety of Cypripedium insjgne (First -class

Certificate) ; also a tine group of cut blooms (Vote of Thanks).

E. J. Sidebotham, Esq.. Bowdon (gr., Mr. Shiner), showed

Dendrobium Luna (Award of Merit).

II v. Greenwood, Esq., Hislingden (gr., Mr. Gill), showed
Dendrobium Juno (First-c ass Certificate), D. Owenianum
(First-class Certilicate), I). Aspasia (Award of Merit), and
Cypripedinm Mastersianum (Award of Merit ).

D. B. Rappaut, Esq., Liscard(gr., Mr. Nicholson), showed
Odontoglossum crispum (Award of Merit).

Mrs. Brigos-Bury, Accrington (gr., Mr. Wilkinson), exhi-
bited Dendrobium x Hebe (First-class Certilicate), Odonto-
glossum Itin-io rianum (Award of Merit).

( t. ( ». Wriolkv, Esq., Bury (gr., Mr. Rogers), had Cypripe-
dium insigne, Harefield Hall var. (First-class Certilicate),
Cypripediuni seedling (Cnrtisii x barbatum) (Award of Merit ).

R. Ashworth, Esq., Newchnrch (gr., Mr. Pidsley), showed
Lycaste Skinneri alba, bearing thirty-three expanded blooms
(First-class and Cultural Certificates).

E. Stanley Clarke, Esq., Wrexham (gr., Mr. Edwards),
showed Odontoglossum crispum Mis. Stanley Clarke (Award
of Mei it ), an 1 1 a group of plants in flower (Vote of Thanks).

llv. Wletman, Esq, Glossop (gr., Mr. Faulkner), Imd
Dendrobium nobile Amesise (First-class Certificate).

Edward Holt, Esq., Prestwich (gr., Mr, Murphy), staged
a group of miscellaneous Orchids (Vote of Thanks).

Messrs. J. Veitch & Suns. Ltd., Chelsea, exhibited Den-
drobium Ainsworthi intertextum (First-class Certificate), D.
A. i. amuenum, D. euosmum leucopterum (Award of Merit),
D. e. delicatum (Award of Merit), &c.

Messrs. F. Sander & c St. Albans, showed two forms of

Cattleya TrianKi, one of which received an Award of Merit,
and other plants.

Mr. A. J. Keeling, Bingley, showed Odontoglossum Wilcke-
anum superbum (Award ol Merit and Cultural Certificate), O.
Andersonianuni virginale, and Dendrobium splendidissimuin
grandifiorum, Thompson's var. (First-class Certificate).

Mr. John Cowan, Gateacre, showed Cattleya Trianaji
Archleana.

Mr. John Robson, Altrim-ham, showed Cyinbidium Lowi*
eburneum (Award of Merit), Dendrobium xantliocentrnin
(Award of Merit), and a group of other plants (Vote of Thanks).

Mr. J. Cypher, Cheltenham, staged a group of miscella-
neous Orchids (Vote of Thanks).

The Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund.—

The smoking concert in aid of this Fund, held on
the 15th inst. at Cannon Street Hotel, was verywell
attended, but the proportion of gardeners to those
present was exceedingly small.

Books: A. D. B., Jena. The Encyclopaedia and

Dictionary of Gaol' ning, by Geo. Nicholson
and others, in the English language, first edition,
by Mr. Upcott Gill, 170, Strand, W.C. ; or the
newer French edition of the same work (Diction-
noire Pratique d' Horticulture et ih Jardinagc), par
G. Nicholson and S. Mottet ; Vilmorin-Andrieux
et Cie. , published by the Librarie Agrieole de la
Maison Rustiqne, 26, Kite Jacob, Paris. —
Jason. Horticultural Buildings, by F. A.
Fawkes ; published by Swan, Sonnenscheiu, La
Bas and Lowrey, Paternoster Row, E.C. New
edition, Heating by Hot Water, by Walter Jones ;
published by Crosby Lockwood and Son, 7, Sta-
tioners'Hall Court, EC. 2nd edition.— B. R. The
most recent work on landscape gardening is the
one under that title, by Mr. Samuel Parsons,
published by G. P. Putnam's Sons, 27, King
William Street, Strand, W.C.

Cabbages, Broccoli Spoiled : /. .9 The plants
are affected by a slime fungus, the cause of club-
bing and other ills in Brassicas. Try heavy
liming the soil and fallowing as far as may be
practicable, and varying the cropping, that is,
not planting any Brassicas on the same piece of
land two years ruuuing. The laud should be
trenched, not necessarily bringing the bad sub-
soil to the top, but breaking it up and leaving it
at the bottom. Some of it may be brought up
at the next trenching, say, in three or four years.
As the soil appears to be full of manure or
vegetable remains, the lime will benefit it, and
some may be applied at every winter digging for
some years to come.

Correction. -The Snowdrop figured iu our last
issue under the name C'assalia should be called
" Cassaba. "

Cucumbers: E. S. The roots are badly affected
witli the eel-worm, so often described in these
columns. There is no cure, but you should burn
the plants, get fresh soil, and bake it before
using to kill the worms iu the soil, aud start
afresh. — J. L. Probably eel-worms. Can you
send a few roots for our inspection ';

1 1 'NATION : G. King. We make no charge for such
insertions, and we have forwarded the Postal-
order to the Secretary of the Royal Gardeners'
< Irphan Fund.

Expansion-Joint in Hot Water Pipes : G. A . A".,
Mount Tolmie, Victoria, B.C. This kind of pro-
tection against fracture by internal pressure is
not iu use here, the feed cistern answering the
purpose. With steam heating and cast-iron
pipes it is necessary, aud it usually consists of a
sliding length of pipe accurately turned and
smooth, inserted between the disconnected ends
of the main steam flow.

FlCS : II'. J. G. The fruits of the Fig fall off when
young from a variety of causes— from lack or
from excess of water, from cold, or check of auy
kind : from being too forward at the period of
rest, &c. A "well drained"' border is liable
to become very dry when least suspected, and
iu the absence of any details of cultivation in
your note, we are unable to indicate the cause of
the fruit droppiug. It is not good practice to
stop the shoots "several times "—at the least,
not the same shoots, in the summer.

Genistas : Swiss. The usual time to strike cut-
tings of the greenhouse species is the end of
June or the beginning of July. They should be
slips taken off with a thin heel and put into .'12's
or 48's, filled with sandy peat made firm, and
surfaced with 4 -inch layer of silver sand. The
pots must be well drained, with quite small
crocks two inches deep. The cuttings must be
covered with a bell glass, which must be wiped
daily. A greenhouse tempsrature, and shading

from bright sunshine, must be afforded. Stocks
for forming standards may consist of the slender
growing C. filipes.

Qrenadilla Seeds: A. W. P. The seeds should
be sown in finely-sifted loamy soil, with one-
sixth leaf-mould and some silver sand iucorpo-
rated, covering them to the depth of a quarter
of au iuch with the soil. The seed-pots should
be well drained by placing a two-inch layer of
finely-broken crocks at the bottom over one
large convex piece placed over the hole iu the
pot. When afforded water, stand them in a
mild hotbed or intermediatehouse, and when
the seedlings have made a true leaf or two
prick them off into other pots iu warmed soil,
and finally pot them up aud grow in a warm
part of a greenhouse. A roughish soil, consist-
ing of loam, leaf-mould, or fibry peat aud decayed
manure one-fourth, will suit the plants when
they are a year old, affording them good drainage
and a warm situation.

L.U'agf.rta : Swiss. The layering may be per-
formed in the spring by pegging down the shoots
on a bed of peaty soil, and covering them at the
nodes where the pegs are situated about one inch
deep.

Names of Frftts : George Farmer. 1, Striped
Beefing ; 2, not known ; 3, Lane's Prince Albert.
Samples sent much rubbed and discoloured ;
they do uot fairly represent the proper character
at this season.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — Armilagc, Bros. Chori-
zema cordatum. — E. S. B. Probably Pinus Tseda.
Canyon not send us a cone? — P.P. 1, Ophio-
pogon Jaburau variegatum ; 2, Cestrum (Habro-
thamnus) species ; 3, Bilbergia nutans ; Nos.
4 and 5 have not come to hand. The Sham-
rock should be planted out of doors ; and the
Swaiusonia have the dead wood removed and
the new growth stopped once. — F. C. l.C'oro-
nilla glauca ; 2, Streptosolen Jamesoni ; 3,
Pilea muscosa.

Nut Bushes Severely Cut Back : E. S. The
clustering shoots, the result of the operation,
must be removed iu great part, leaving only the
best p'aced, only two or th i ee as may seem desirab'e
to form a new head. Nature would do this thin-
ning out by the smothering out of existence of
the weaker shoots, but it would be a lengthy
process. The shoots that are left should not
he topped this but next year, aud during the
summer young shoots uot wanted must be
rubbed off.

ItlCHARDlA ai-rhana : Jason. The production
of early spathes is favoured by pot culture alone,
but for late winter aud spring-uses out of doors
cultivation in rich, cool, moist soil with early
potting may be recommended. Where early
spathes are looked for, the plants should be
turned on their sides when the leaves begin to
yellow, and no water be afforded for two months,
unless the pots be less than 10-inch. See a
remark by a correspondent in our Home Corres-
pondence in the present issue.

Koi.i.ek Blinds for Stove : 11. CD. Undoubtedly
the best are made from thin Bamboo splints,
secured by copper wire. They should be made
5 feet wide, aud as loug as may be necessary.
Sold by some of the horticultural sundriesmen.

Wild Red Currant: G. A. R., Mount Tolmie,
B. C. We should question an Alaskan wild
species being as good as our garden varieties.

Communications Received. — G. W. A. — T. II. 3mwne, Ltd. —
.1. Batters, too late- J. P., Sydney.— C W.— D. M. McKin-
lion.— D. T. F.— S. A.— A. Wallace.— A. C. F.— C. W. D.,
several.— A. Ransom.— F. W. B.— G. E.— H. C— E. M. H.—
1 1 T. C. B.— T. E. H.— A. J. >L— J. II. w. (next week).

SrECIMENS AND PHOTOGRAPHS RECEIVED WITH THANKS. —
O. J.

IMPORTANT TO ADVERTISERS. — The Publisher has
the satis/action of announcing thai the circulation of the
" Gardeners1 Chronicle1' has, since the reduction in the
vrice of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Adcert'tsers are reminded that the "Chronicle' circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners"
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and that it is
preserved for reference in all the 2^''incipal Libraries.

{For Market* and Weather, see p. xv. )

April 1, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS1 C HE ONI CLE.

193

Nir,

THE

dfonlmers' d|ltnmiclc

No. 640.— SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 1899.

THE TEMPERATE-HOUSE at KEW.
"l^TE record with pleasure the completion of
' ' this magnificent plant-edifice, which will
be thrown open in its entirety to visitors to Kew
on Easter Sunday. It is exactly forty years
since Mr. Deciimis Burton supplied the designs
which, with slight modifications, have been
followed in the construction of, first, the
octagons in 1801, the grand centre in 1802, the
south wing in 1897, and, finally, the north
wing in 1898.

The need of such a conservatory was urged
by Sir William Hooker so early as in 1850,
" for the accommodation of those noble Chilian,
Mexican, and Australian Conifers, and other
trees and shrubs of temperate climates, for the
possession of which Kew has long been cele-
brated, but of which I must now speak almost
in the past tense. . . . What is really required
to render the Gardens complete, is as much
accommodation for the large trees and shrubs
of temperate climates as was granted for
tropical plants twelve years ago, in the
erection of our noble Palm - house, which
is the pride and glory of our gardens, and
then, and not till then, we shall have
attained to all that this great national estab-
lishment ought to be." Sir William Hooker
only saw part of his grand scheme carried
into effect. His successor. Sir Joseph Hooker,
appears to have relinquished all hope of ever
obtaining funds for the erection of the wings,
as he found ''so many other and more urgently
needed works to be carried out, especially in
the Arboretum."

About five years ago, the Right Hon. Joseph
Chamberlain, a frequent visitor to Kew, in-
terested himself in the present Director's desire
to see this building completed, and it was in
great measure due to his exertions that a grant
was obtained for the erection of the southern
wing, and afterwards of the northern.

The house is now by far the largest plant-
structure in the world, its length being 5.S2 feet,
its greatest width 138 feet, height of the grand
centre 00 feet, of the wings 38 feet, and its
ground area nearly 2 acres. The cost of the whole
edifice has been about £60,000.

The value of such a house in a botanical
establishment such as Kew cannot easily be
over-estimated. It affords ample space for the
proper development of the many interesting
shrubs and trees of temperate and subtropical
regions, which, in the plant-house of ordinary
dimensions are cribbed, cabined, and confined
in pot or tub, and are necessarily decapitated
or mutilated to keep them within bounds.
Such examples have little or no interest either
for the botanical student or the horticulturist.
"A botanic garden is not valuable as was once
thought in proportion mainly to the number of
species of plants which it contains, but to their
characteristics, botanical or otherwise, their
usefulness and beauty. Selection, rather than
a collection, has become a necessity. Many

plants that were formerly considered worthy of
cultivation, simply because of their rarity, are
now properly confined in the state of dried
specimens to the herbarium." It is only when
collections are formed and kept up on these lines
that botanical gardens are made really attrac-
tive and useful, and when once we grasp the
principle that a dozen well-grown, properly-
developed plants are in every way preferable to
fifty half-starved, miserable-looking examples,
we shall have made an important step in
the direction of improvement in glasshouse-
gardening.

Large plant-houses are. however, likely to be
a curse rather than a blessing if not constructed
with a view to affording those conditions
required by the plants it is intended to grow
in them. It would be futile to attempt, for
instance, the cultivation of a collection of Orchids
or Ericas in this large house at Kew ; and we
are pleased to notice, by the way, that the
reduction in the height of the Orchid-houses in
the same establishment has already resulted in
considerable improvement in the health of the
collection. There can be no doubt as to the
suitableness of the conditions afforded in these
new wings of the Temperate-house for the
plants grown in them, the growth made by
almost every plant in the south-wing, known as
the Mexican -house, being all that could be
desired. A full account of the arrangements
in and contents of this house was published in
our pages in October, 1S97, p. 2:14.

Tlie north wing is to be known as the Hima-
layan h.nise, the majority of the plants to be
grown there bring natives of that region, or of
China and Japan. The arrangement of the
beds is exactly the same as in the Mexican-
house, with the addition of two rock-pools near
the north entrance, and two rooteries at the
other end. No artificial heat is to be used,
even in winter, the object being to show what
plants can be grown in a large glass structure
without fire-heat. The plants already planted
there are : Rhododendrons from the Himalaya
and Yunnan, Camellias, Himalayan Bamboos,
Tea, Magnolias and Talaumas, Indian and
Chinese Roses, Buddleias, Vacciniums, Tree
Pseonies, Arissemas, Liliums, Kakis, Fatsias,
Eriobotrya, Gordonias, Kuniquat, Photinias,
Nandina, Akebias, Eukianthus, Ligustrum cori-
aceum, Incarvilleas, Euonymus, Viburnums,
Pueraria Thunbergi, Corylopsis, Osmanthus,
Aralias, Himalayan Rubi, &c. Indian Nym-
phseas and other aquatics will be grown in the
rock-pools, and some of the coarser herbaceous
plants, such as Primulas and Saxifragas, will
find a place either beneath the shrubs or in the
chinks of the rocks. Eremurus will also be
tried there. A few western plants have been
admitted, only because the conditions of the
house are peculiarly adapted to them ; these
are Carpenteria, Embothrium, Philesia, Fre-
mont ia, and a few others. Tall plants of Bam-
busa mitis will form an avenue along the
central path, corresponding to the avenue of
Cocos plumosa in the Mexican-house. So far
the plants generally have taken kindly to their
new quarters, notwithstanding the great size
of many of them.

The general plan of the whole edifice is now
as follows : — Plants requiring an intermediate
temperature in the Mexican-house, temperate
Eastern plants in the Himalayan-house,
Oranges in the south octagon, Bays, &c, in the
north octagon, and trees and shrubs of Aus-
tralia, New Zealand, South Africa, and southern
Europe in the grand centre.
The whole of the plants are planted out in

long parallel beds, level with the paths, save
only those which stand on a narrow bench
extending all round the central part, and
serving as a screen for the hot-water pipes. It
is this natural arrangement which makes this
house so much more pleasing than the Palm-
house, for instance, where many of the plants
are grown in pots or. tubs necessarily huddled
together, and standing on iron gratings over
hot-water pipes, which, both in appearance and
in effect on the health of the plants, are not
unlike a huge gridiron.

We have almost reformed away from the
outdoor garden that muddled arrangement
once known as a shrubbery, and have substi-
tuted a looser, meaningful style, which gives
each plant plenty of room to show itself to
advantage. There is no reason why the same
reform should not be extended to the glass-
house garden, and we are glad to see such a
reform has been carried into effect at Kew.

Whilst admiring, as all must do, the superior
charm and beauty of plants grown under more
natural conditions, it is nevertheless still essen-
tial in a botanic garden, especially at Kew, to
have representative collections. Thus, at Kew,
in addition to the monster palaces of glass,
where after all only a limited number of species
can be grown, we have, very properly, special
houses for Orchids, Nepenthes, Ferns, Succu-
lents, and the like, so that the student has the
opportunity of seeing as complete collections of
certain groups as circumstances will allow,

A spacious alpine-house and the formation of
a rockery, under a removable glass roof, is a
desirable feature, which we may hope to see at
Kew in the futurejj

Again, following the analogy of the exhi-
bitions of the pictures of Rembrandt and other
masters, we should like to see at different times
special collections of particular groups ; such
collections to be made as complete or as repre-
sentative as possible, and to be retained
unbroken for a few years, in order to give
students the fullest possible opportunity of
seeing the plants in growth. At the end of
the time, the collections might be dispersed,
retaining only the best for educational and
ornamental purposes, and consigning the rest
to the herbarium or to the rubbish-heap, a;
might be found desirable. In the herbaceous
ground a similar plan might be adopted.

Orchid Notes and Gleaning:

CATTLEYA TRIAN.EI GIOANTEA, HARE-
FIELD HALL VAIi.
Tins noble form of Cattleya labiata Triansei has
again flowered in the collection of Elijah Ashworth,
Esq., at Harefield Hall, Wilmslow. The plant,
which has unusually tall and stout growths, was
collected in the Popayan district by Consul F. C.
Lehmann in 1896, with the recommendation that
out of the thousands of Cattleyas which he had
seen in bloom in their native homes, this was by
far the best in every respect. W hen it flowered
at Harefield Hall, all the orchidists who saw it
agreed that the recommendation was a just one
when applied in comparison with home-grown spe-
cimens ; and now, with the evidence of the flower
sent by Mr. Ashworth, I can do no less than add
my testimony. In the form of the individual
parts, in their charming arraugement, in the fine
thick substance of the flower, and its exquisite
colouring, it leaves nothing to be desired. The
broad flat sepals are silver- white, delicately flushed
with a slight tinge of rose. The petals are each
4 inches long by 34 wide, silver-white, with a
delicate tinge of rose, the colour being slightly

194

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 1, 1899.

more pronounced on the veiuing and the tips than
on the other portion. The margins of the petals
and the lip are very finely crimped aud slightly
fringed. The lip, whose circular front is 31 inches
across, is white at the base of the tube, up the
centre running a band of orange-coloured markings,
the band diverging to each side as it approaches
the mouth of the tube. The middle area is bright
rose-crimson, changing to pure dark rose as it
reaches the margin. The outsides of the side lobes
arc rose-pink. Compared with this, most of the
other named varieties would appear to a dis-
advantage. James O'Brien.

Forestry.

THE HOME NURSERY.

(Contvjmed from p. 1G4.)
We may take it for granted that the class of
trees or plants which the forester is most desirous
of raising in the nursery are those which will
bear transplanting with safety. The aim of the
nurseryman is in a similar direction, no doubt, but
pecuniary considerations compel him to study the
rate of growth, as well as the transplanting capa-
bilities of the plants he raises ; and therein lies the
chief difference between the management of home
aud commercial nurseries. In these latter, manure,
aud plenty of it, is usually relied upon to stimulate a
strong and vigorous growth ; and the usual paragraph
in catalogues, that " our " nurseries are situated
so many feet above sea-level, or freely exposed to
this or that wind, may be taken for what it is worth.
No doubt altitude and exposure do affect the
growth of a plant, but how much or in what way it
affects its transplanting capabilities, or its success
in its future home, are not easy questions to settle.
If we accept the Darwinian theory of adapta-
tion to environment, the nearer a tree and its
ancestors have lived to the spot which it
is intended to permanently occupy the better.
The chances are that the vicissitudes of local
climate will be more easily borne by such a tree
than by one which lias to discover the local spring
aud summer for itself, or is compelled to work on
data gathered in another place. Experiments carried
out with seeds and seedlings tend to indicate that
seeds or plauts transplanted to a warmer climate than
the one in which they have been grown or raised,
start more quickly into growth than those indi-
genous to the locality. This may or may not be an
advantage, according to circumstances, and within
certain limits, may have no practical significance.
In my opinion, by far the most important quality
in a tree or seed intended for transplanting or sow-
ing is a thoroughly ripened condition, and so far as
seeds are concerned, nothing further need be said.
With regard to trees, it is only necessary to con-
sider what takes place when a tree is transplanted
under ordinary conditions in order to realise the
importance of its wood being thoroughly ripe, and
well matured. In ordinary practice, and in
ordinary language, transplantation means inter-
rupted growth of either roots or stem. When
transplanted in winter, as is usually the case,
the growth of the roots only is directly interfered
with, and this is effected by exposure, killing in
the process of lifting, breaking off the grow-
ing points of the roots with their food-absorb-
ing root-hairs. A plant cannot be said to be
successfully transplanted, therefore, until this
injury is repaired by the formation of new roots,
and for this purpose the stock of reserve material
stored up in the tissues of root and stem must be
drawn upon. Plauts lifted with the majority of
their roots intact, and replanted before they are
exposed to dry air or wind, probably suffer no more
demand upon this reserve store than would be
the case if the plant had never been moved, for
root-growth goes on more or less throughout the
winter at the expense of this store. But in the
case of ordinary transplanting, such as takes
place when plauts are obtained from a nursery,

and subjected to the usual processes of lifting,
bundling, packing, or loading into trucks, trans-
ference by rail and road, &c, the roots die back a
considerable distance from their extremities, and
the roots it forms afterwards are practically, if not
theoretically, adventitious roots. It is obvious,
therefore, that a well-ripened stem and root, with
an abundant supply of reserve material, is in a
better position to form a new set of roots, and
enable the plant to regain its normal condition,
than a similarly treated root and stem in which
this material is reduced to a low ebb, by reason of a
shortened ripeningperiod in the preceding autumn.
A. C. Forhes.

(To be continued.)

SPEING FLOWERS.

Lonicera Standlshi. This is one of the earliest
flowering species of this genus, if not the earliest of
all ; it opened its flowers this year on March 16.
The pale yellow, almost white flowers have a very
fine perfume. The flowers appear before the
leaves.

Chionodoxa sardensis. Amongst the early
flowering bulbous plants, I know no other so lovely,
so freely flowering as is Chionodoxa sardeusis.
Certainly its sister, the well-known Chionodoxa
Luciliae, is a fine plant, but its flowers with the
large white stars are too pale a blue. Chionodoxa
sardensis, though it has rather smaller flowers, is
much more effective, owing to the darker blue
colour of the blooms, which form a large many-
flowered inflorescence that may be compared with
that of Scilla bifolia, which blooms at the same
time or a few days later. But these are larger
than the Scilla flowers, from which they also differ
from the first by their deeper blue colour ; those of
Scilla bifolia, the first day after opening, are of a
greyish-blue hue which darkens afterwards.

Eranthis cilicicus, of which I gave a short
description in the Gardeners' Chronicle last year, is
a good introduction into our gardens. It flowers
earlier than our Eranthis hiemalis, and the flowers
are much more lasting than those of the old species.
In my garden E. cilicicus began to flower this year
the first week in January, and is to-day, March 20,
still in bloom. The difference between the
plants is but small, but the leaves are somewhat
more finely divided in E. cilicicus than in E.
hiemalis. The flowers of E. cilicicus vary in size so
much that some flowers are almost double the size
of others.

Galanthus cilicicus Baker, of which the Gar-
deners' Chronicle gave a description and figure
last year, proves to be an excellent acquisition. It
flowered here from October till March in the open
air, as well as in pots in the cold greenhouse. Cer-
tainly it will become a good market plant, as
Snowdrops at Christmas fetch a very good price.
The flowers are larger than those of Galanthus
nivalis, though they did not yet reach the size of
those grown in their native locality. In other
respects the other's appearance is just the same as
that of Galanthus nivalis. Dr. U. Hammer, Jl< rlin.

The Rosary.

IN THE ROSE-HOUSE.
There is no more busy or anxious time than the
present among Roses under glass. The majority of
the plants are now at the most susceptible stage
of growth, and need great care and attention if
mildew, insect pests, and other troubles are to be
avoided. How often we find the tiuy flower-
bud turn a brownish-black while still no larger
than a Pea. Excessive drought for an hour or two,
or extreme changes of temperature, will often cause
this. But I find the most prevalent cause of this
to be careless fumigation. Fumes which will not
seriously injure or cripple the youngest foliage, will
often kill the tiny flower-bud. The most sensitive

variety of all in this respect is Niphetos. I would
never rely upon fumigation alone for the destruc-
tion of insects, but use it in conjunction with a
weak solution of some reliable insecticide. The
latter will be useful as a wash, at the same time that
it disposes of the half-killed insects. Strong mea-
sures will not do with the tender foliage of Roses
under glass, for even if injury is not apparent at
once, the check has been given, and the results
are inferior. Roses enjoy a syringing upon
bright mornings, and it is just as well to use a very
weak insecticide at the same time. This will check
insects, keep the plants clean, and serve the purpose
of necessary moisture. Our worst foe at this
season is mildew. This is much encouraged, if
not actually caused, by extremes of any kind. A
check to young growth, whether from the roots on
top of the plant, is almost sure to induce mildew.
It throws the plaut out of health, and this in-
sidious disease gains a strong holding in an as-
tonishingly short time. Draughts and sudden
changes of temperature are the most fruitful sources
of attack, and must be avoided. It needs great
care and attention to give ventilation to the best
advantage, when we are having bright sunshine
with a keen wind and severe frost.

I believe Poses are often over-potted, and that uot
sufficient use is made of liquid-manures. Good as
many of the chemical foods are, I prefer the
drainings from a cow-stall, or stable even, to any
of them. Give it iu a weak state, but frequently.
Where Roses are planted iu borders, such varieties
as Marechal Niel, William Allen Richardson, and
Gloire de Dijon, to climb over the roof or back
wall, loosen the surface-soil, and give them a
thorough soaking of liquid-manure. One needs to
use a little judgment here, for the surface-soil is
no guide to the condition of that where the roots
of the Rose-trees may be. Never half-water a
plant. A. Piper.

Foreign Correspondence.

•

A GERMAN METHOD OP CLEANING
TOMATO SEED.
Altiioitiii interesting to read the different
methods for cleaning this seed, none seem so
simple or easy as that used here in Erfurt. By
following the instructions as here given, the seed
can be cleaned at very small cost of labour. The
pulp, being scooped out, is placed in a sieve, the
mesh of which does not allow the seeds to pass
through. The sieve is then placed in water, and
the pulp is rubbed through the mesh of the sieve
by means of the hand. In a short time, the pulp
all being rubbed away, the seed remains perfectly
freed from it. Iu the same way Melon and such
seeds may be cleaned.

Gardeners' Wages in Germany.
Having regard to the frequent complaints one
hears as to the "starvation wages" received by our
English gardeners, I think it may interest you to
know what one earns in Germany. At one of the
largest and richest nurseries in this important town
of Erfurt, the workmen (distinct from improvers)
receive 10 to 15 marks weekly (a mark is about equal
to a shilling). Only the best workmen receive as
much as 15s. weekly, and a man twenty-five years
of age with a family will only receive lis. S</.
weekly to commence, and his wages will increase
yearly at the rate of 8('. weekly. Then the
average weekly money earned by these poor
fellows is 13s. (id. ; and although living is cheaper
here, they certainly have to be more careful than
their English brothers, who earn nearly half as
much again. Improvers are paid at the rate of
44s. monthly, rising half-yearly at the rate of
3s. monthly. Is it surprising that England can-
not compete with Germany in seed-growing, con-
sidering the matter of wages alone? It is to be
wondered, considering the low shipping rates, that
Germany does not send us more than she does in
the Rose and fruit-tree growing lines. L. J. Cook.

195

3

5

196

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April \, 1899.

Winter Aconite in Utrecht.
In answer to a question in your number of
January 14 tbis year, I may tell you that the
Winter AcoDites made their appearance and
bloomed, though not very abundantly, in my not
very large town garden in the third week of
January last. The leaves should be permitted to
die off entirely, and not be cut before being quite
ripe, else there will be no flowers the next year. I
have them as a border of a bed of Lilies, and the
ripe seed spreading all around in the grass produces
quantities of little plants, but by and by these
disappear and die away, not being allowed to attain
full growth, and being cut off with the grass.
Aconites seem not to be generally known and
appreciated at this time. In an article on " Spring
Flowers," lately, they were not even mentioned,
and yet they are so lovely, and the first flowers to
bloom, even before Snowdrops. Mrs. C. B., Utrecht,
Holland.

Continental Novelties.

NEW RACE OF ASTERS.
We learn from the list of Messrs. Vilmorin,
Andrieux & Co. that they are bringing out some
Asters which promise to receive a good deal of
attention from gardeners. One named Reine
Marguerite Japonaise is a needle Aster, which in
habit belongs to the Perfection pyramidal class.
The blooms, of a fine rose, are globular, with upright
rays, which are twisted round on both sides. The
stalk is strong, and capable of holding the bloom
horizontally. At the present time the tints are
light pink, rose-pink, red, pale blue, and white.
The second race was noticed in the Rerue Horticole
in 1894. The blooms are large, very full, with
numerous rays of great leugth, which are bent
about the middle, giving the bloom the appearance
of a Japanese Chrysanthemum. The colours ob-
tained in this race are chamois-red, coppery-rose-
red, coppery-red, and violet.

Colonial Notes.

FRUITS AMD FLOWERS IN QUEENSLAND.
I was very glad to read in the Gardeners'
Chronicle of Oct. 29, 189S, that Mr. J. W. Miller,
of Ruxley Lodge Gardens, Esher, is still growing
William Tillery Melon. I brought this and several
other varieties from England when I came out
here, and it succeeded best of all. I was unfor-
tunate in losing it for want of a place to plant one
year. No seeds here that I have had to deal witb
will retain their vitality more than one year. Two
applications to English nurserymen have been
made for it, but in neither case was it true. My
old friend, Mr. D, Thompson, late of Drumlanrig,
sent me two sorts— Conqueror of Europe and
Champion — but neither of them has done so well.
I once grew a fruit of William Tillery under the
influence of the electric light at Sherwood (where
I lived with the late Sir W, Siemens) 11 lb.
weight. There was but one fruit on the plant.
We have jjlenty of fruits ; but, with the exception
of the Mango, which is very delicious, the Melon
is our favourite. We have Pines, Grapes, Lichee,
Star-apple (Chrysophyllum Caiuito), Monstera deli-
ciosa. Persimmons, Sapadilla-Plum.Guavas of several
sorts, Eugenias, Passion-fruits (Passiflora edulis),
and P. quadrangularis, the Granadilla ; Oranges,
Lemons, Tamarinds, Peaches, &c. The varieties
of Peaches are all seedlings, and bear abundantly,
but they are of poor quality. The fruits are ripe
now (December), but none of the English Peaches
will succeed. I have had them for six years, and
have not seen a flower on either Royal George or
Noblesse ; indeed, they are dying out. The seed-
ling Peaches bear the second year from seed.
Grapes last about three months, but we have Pines
nearly all the year round, and one gets tired of
them. The Mangos and Grapes are just ripening.

Melons we eat at breakfast. It is rather hot for
them just now, but towards the end of January
and in February, when the temperature is a little
cooler, they succeed better. It is not the shade-
heat that injures them, but the intense direct sun-
shine, which often reaches 176°. In the shade we
seldom exceed 95° at this place, but a few miles
inland it reaches 109°. This (the State) nursery
was established for the purpose of introducing
fruits, plants, drugs, fibres, and other things, of
commercial interest. But Sugar-cane is the one
crop grown by the farmers, and great attention has
been given by the department to the introduction of
new varieties from all tropical countries, but New
Guinea has given us the greatest number. I have
been working up the Coffee industry, and have
succeeded in getting many of the farmers to make
a beginning. The Coffee succeeds well here, and
will pay better than Cane. Our available flowers
are mostly tropical species. Amaryllids are grand.
Our bedding-plants are a few Coxcombs, Balsams,
&c. ; but Verbenas, Phlox Drummondi, and Zin-
nias, also do well. None of the beautiful spring-
flowers, such as Crocus, Tulips, Agapanthus, Poly-
anthus, Auriculas, Narcissus, &c, will live. Pears,
Apples, Gooseberries, Currants, Strawberries, Rasp-
berries, nor English Plums, will grow. Such plants
as Bougainvilleas and Tecoma venusta are gor-
geous. Poincianas, especially P. regia, are very
beautiful. The colours of all these and many
others are much more intense than you know
them. Tecoma, or Bougainvillea, when they have
entirely enveloped a house, are a grand sight : but
still, the variety of the old country compensates for
the few gorgeous things we have. The Orchids are
poor ; Dendrobium bigibbum is the best epiphyte,
Phaius longifolius the best terrestrial ; Dendrobium
Hilli and a large buff variety are very good. This
would be a beautiful country if its rainfall was
better distributed. In the wet season I have
known 17 inches of rain fall in twelve hours. I
am sending you a photo of my house at the end of
wiuter. The big plant on the porch is Beaumontia,
but it is nearly out of flower. Allamanda Hender-
son! covers all the west side ; it flowers all the
year round. D. Buchanan, State Nursery, Machay,
Queensland.

Botanic Garden ok the Straits Settlements.

We have received the Agricultural Bulletin of
the Malay Peninsula for December, 1898, and
among its contents note articles on vegetables,
poisonous plants of the Malay Peninsula, and
Sugar-cane from seeds in the Straits Settlements ;
the latter subject illustrated with an excellent
plate, showing the development of the youug canes
when twenty-four, thirty-eight, sixty-two, and
eighty-three days old respectively. Further
papers deal with shade trees, para-rubber, lemon-
grass oil, citronella oil, C'offea stenophylla, and
Coffee-blights, fungoid and insects.

As a mixture for destroying scale-insects, the
following is recommended by Sir W. T. Thiselton
Dyer: — "Heat milk nearly to boiling-point, and
mix with double the quantity of kerosene ; stir
briskly until a thick creamy liquid is obtained.
Dilute with ten times the quantity of water. Spray
or apply with a brush, keeping the mixture con-
stantly stirred. Sour milk is as efficient as fresh.
If milk cannot be obtained, or if the mixture is
required in large quantity, a strong soap-emulsion
may be used in its place."

Agriculture and Forestry of New South
Wales.

The Report, up to December 31, 1897, of the
above-mentioned Department is now before us, and
the Under-Secretary in presenting it, says that : —
"The efforts of the Department to advance the
agricultural interests have met with a full measure
of success, and at no time in the history of the
colony have the prospects of the industries allied to
agriculture been so promising. Despite the fact
that the two seasons covered by the period of this
report were among the most disastrous ever expe-

rienced in the colony, the output of farm and
orchard products has been unprecedented ; and
this pleasing circumstance can, I think, be logically
regarded as a result of the adoption of better and
more effective methods promulgated by the Depart-
ment, which place the producer at more advantage
in combating adversity of season."

"Queensland Agricultural Journal."
The January number of this publication contains
papers on the Queensland Agricultural College,
Tobacco, Cultivation of (Jhilies, Fruit Culture aud
Viticulture. Grafting fruit-trees is dealt with, and
illustrated by plates showing the various processes.
In the botanical section of the journal, Mr. F.
M. Bailey mentions and illustrates the " Hedge
Nettle," Stachys arvensis, as a plant poisonous to
stock. There is also a paper on plant-helping
insects, accompanied by a plate of Cirrhopetalum
robustum, copied from the Botanical Magazine;
notes on forestry, aud on general subjects.

The Week's Work.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrothara Park, Barnet.

The Earliest Celery. — As soon as the plants
raised from the first sown seeds are large enough to
be handled, let them be pricked off either into well
prepared boxes or on to a gentle hot-bed. If on to
a bed let the soil be rich, and it should be raised
to within eight inches of the glass, which should be
kept clean so as to admit the light. Before the
seedlings are put out, the soil must be patted with
a bright spade so as to make it firm and smooth,
and when planting make the holes deep enough to
let the young roots drop in easily down to the seed-
leaf, taking care not to bruise them when filling in
with the dibber. Slightly shade the plants in
sunny weather, afford moisture to the soil ; and
keep the lights closed for a few days, wheu less
aud le6s shading may be applied, and air given
gradually. If soot be dusted lightly ever the
plants, slugs will do no harm to them. The
temperature ought not to be lower than 55°. Plants
pricked off into boxes should be kept in a light
position and as near the glass as possible ; a peach-
house or vinery newly started will suit them
admirably. For the main crop a sowing of varieties
may be made in boxes, seed-pans, or under haud-
lights, using fine rich soil. If boxes or pans are
used, glass or slates should be placed over them till
germination takes place. But little warmth beyond
that of the sun will be necessary. The plants
may be pricked off into cold frames, or on to a
warm border, special provision being taken to
ensure quick yet stocky growth.

French. Beans. — Plants in bearing should have the
usable pods gathered as soon as they are fit for
use, and if not required for immediate consumption
they may be tied in small bundles, with the stalks
arranged at one end, and stood on end in a saucer
of water in a frost-proof room. Canadian Wonder
and Pale Dun are varieties much liked, but they
need larger pots than the early forcing varieties.
Use ten-iuch pots, and do not more than half-fill
them when sowing the seeds. After this date,
less drainage of crocks and more tibry loam at the
bottom may be used. Sow six to eight beans in a
pot, aud keep in a temperature of 65°. Great care
must be taken to cover up the frames at night, and
to admit air, &c. In the open the work will almost
be at a standstill ; but if not done, make the best
use of frosty mornings in getting vacant plots
manured, Pea-sticks and Bean-stakes pointed, etc.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonblrt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Bedding. — Verbenas which have been raised from
seed, and Fuchsias, Coleus, oic, from cuttings,
should be potted singly in large thumbs, '2 J inches
wide by 4 inches deep, if such are in stock, as
they take up less room. As soil for potting, that
from the pottiug-beuoh, if the rubbish be sifted out
of it, will do well for this purpose. The leading
shoots need not be stopped till fresh roots have
formed. It is well to dust over the leaves with

197

198

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 1, 1899.

flowers-of-sulphur, in order to prevent mildew, and
fumigate lightly to destroy aphides, usually making
its appearance at this stage. Seedling plants of
Ricinus Solanums, and other subtropical plants,
should be shifted into larger pots, and kept growing
bv syringing the plants occasionally, and shading
from the sun. A maximum temperature of /0 will
be sufficiently high for theni. The last cuttings o
Iresine, Coleus, and other bedding plants should
now be taken, as after this date they rarely make
good plants by bedding-out time.

Chrysanthemum maximum. — The newer and
dwarfer varieties are the most suitable to plant
out This species of Chrysanthemum is easy of
cultivation on a loamy soil, an occasional appb,
cation of liquid-manure being all that they need.
C m Duchess of Abercorn is a very dwarf
habited variety, possessing pure white flowers ot
much substance; Elaine has handsome, large
pure white flowers ; C. m G. H. Sage is the
prettiest, having frilled petals ; C. m. hmbriatum
has thread-like petals ; C. in. Maurice Prichard is
a snowy white very tine flower ; C. m. Mrs. Head
gives flowers of great substance, and 4 inches in
diameter ; C. m. grandiflorum is a usually hue and
late-flowering variety.

Potentillas (double). -These plants possess beau-
tiful flowers of the richest shades of colour that
appear during the summer and autumn months.
The plants are of compact neat growth. A loamy
retentive soil suits them best. The hnest of the
self-coloured varieties are P. California, yellow ;
Drapeau, crimson-maroon ; Etna, scarlet ; Hamlet,
dark crimson: Nigra plena, dark purple; Velours
Pourpre, velvety purple ; Vulcan, rich deep crim-
son The varieties having parti-coloured flowers
are Chinois, large rich maroon and yellow ; Feu
Follett, orange scarlet, with broad orange margin ;
Golconda, rich crimson, edged gold ; Dr. Andre,
gold yellow, suffused vermilion ; Milton, yellow,
heavily blotched bright red; Madame Rouillard,
rich velvety scarlet, edged gold, very fine ; and Lo
Vesuve, bright red, edged yellow. If set out at
the beginning of April the plants make good-sized
clumps', and they flower profusely the first year.

Pyrethrums, Double and Single-flowered.— Both
varieties are very effective border plants, excellent
for affording flowers for cutting. The plants gene-
rally are easily raised from seed, but selected
named varieties are so cheap that it is prefer-
able to purchase plants than to rely upon seed.
To produce line flowers, very rich soil, and an
abundance of water when growing and flowering,
are necessary. Slugs aud snails devour the young
leaves at the commencement of growth : a ring of
soot should, therefore, be placed round each plant ;
lime is also useful as a deterrent. After flowering,
a mulch of rotten manure over the roots is beneficial.
P. Aphrodite, Penelope, Princesse de Metternich,
are fine double whites ; Solfaterre and Toison ill )r,
double yellows ; Alfred Kelway, Beauty of Laeken,
Meteor, and King Oscar, deep crimsons. The best
single varieties are Empress of India, Magnet,
whites ; James Kelway, Mrs. Bateman Brown,
Sherlock, crimsons ; Jubilee, Tasso, aud Orlando,
scarlets. It is best to plant the self colours, as the
flowers pale out after flowering a few days to other
tints.

Helianthus.— These perennial Sunflowers soon
exhaust the soil, and require annual transplanta-
tion to produce fine flowers. The plants should he
fully exposed to the sun, and the soil should be well
manured and dug. In transplanting, let the plants
be divided into clumps of six stems each, and plant
them 3 inches below the soil. H. decapetalus
major, H. maximus, and Soleil d'Or, are good
varieties. H. rigidus, known in gardens as Har-
paliuni rigidum, form a noble clump. H. doro-
nicoides and lajtifolius should be planted where
the underground roots and suckers cannot ramble
to the injury of other plants.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. B. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Tuberous Begonias. — If seed was sown as advised
at the end of January, the seedlings will now
require to be pricked out an inch apart into pans
or small boxes, filled with a compost consisting of
two parts loam, one part leaf-soil, with plenty of
sand. After the strongest of the seedlings have
been carefully lifted and pricked out, level the soil
among the smaller ones, and afford a watering if

necessary, to settle the soil about them, and in the
course of ten days or so these may also be pricked
out.

Kalosanthes coccinea. delicatissima, <ec. — Plants
which are showing signs of flowering may be
assisted with occasional applications of weak liquid-
manure. They should be afforded a position near
the glass, and be occasionally turned round, to
prevent their becoming drawn in one direction.
Kalosanthes need comparatively small pots and a
porous compost, composed of three parts loam, one
part peat, and a liberal addition of broken brick-
rubble, crocks or charcoal, and sand. They should
be grown in the greenhouse during the winter, and
until the flowering is past. In the summer they
may be placed in a cold frame or in the open air.

Primulas and Cinerarias. — A small sowing of
seed of the Chinese Primula and Cineraria may now
be made for early flowering. The seed should be
sown thinly in well-drained pots or pans, which
have been previously filled with finely-sifted soil,
aud well watered. The Primula seed should be
only slightly covered with fine sand, and that of
the Cineraria may have a sufficient quantity of the
compost sifted over it through a tine sieve to cover
it. The pans should then be covered with a sheet
of glass, and be placed in an intermediate tempera-
ture, or on a mild hotbed, or under a handlight in
the greenhouse, shading carefully, or, preferably,
affording the pans a position wnere they will not be
exposed to direct sunshine. Primula obcouica, P.
verticillata, and P. floribunda may also be sown in
quantity at this time, under the same conditions
as the Chinese Primula. Great care should be
exercised in affording water to Primulas, both
before germination aud while the seedlings are
small, the roothold during the early stages of
germination being so extremely precarious that a
pan of seedliugs might easily be ruined by one
careless watering with too coarse a rose.

Flowering Shrubs in Pots. — Steps should always
be taken to afford some kind of protection to shrubs
which have been forced, and have done duty in the
conservatory, if it is intended to use them for the
same purpose another year. Sometimes it is
possible to set apart an old house or deep pit for
this purpose ; but failing this, a rough framework
might be constructed in a sheltered corner, the
sides being matted, aud the top covered with
hexagon netting, or similar material, adding somo
mats during severe weather. The plants should be
stood closely together uuder this protection, where
they will gradually become hardened, and may
then be plunged in the reserve ground. The above
remarks refer to such plants as Ghent Azaleas,
Spiraea confusa, double-flowered Cherry, Staphylea
colchica, Lilacs, Hydrangea pauiculata, and Rho-
dodendrons. Deutzia gracilis should be cut back
hard immediately after floweriug, preserving any
young growths which may have started from the
base of the plant, and the plants placed in a house
or pit where a gentle warmth is maintained, and
every means adopted to induce them to make a
strong growth. Liquid-manure should be afforded,
the object being to produce as many strong shoots
as possible from the base of the plant, and
thoroughly ripen these by plunging the plants in
the open air when the growth is completed. Where
these and other floweriug shrubs were potted in
the autumn, as is usually the practice, no further
potting should be needed at this season.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. II. Young, Orchid Grower t« Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, Bast Sheen,

Zygopetalum Perrinoudi. — Our plants are push-
ing up their flower-spikes, aud being rapid in
development, they will have passed out of bloom
before the plants staud in need of any top-dressing
or repotting, that is, when the roots appear at the
base. As soou as these are noticed, the work must
at once be attended to. Zygopetalums like plenty
of drainage materials, and some of the crocks may
be inserted round the ball after it is in position.
Loam, peat, and sphagnum-moss, in about equal
parts, form a suitable compost. Place the plants
in a warm shady part of the Cattleya-house ; afford
water sparingly till it seems they are re-established,
and when the pseudo-bulbs cease to grow, keep the
materials moderately dry, but do not cause them to
shrivel.

Z. Mackayi and its varieties, awl Z. maxillare,
may often be seen in luxuriant growth in establish-

ments where Orchids have no special treatment,
but in collections of Orchids they are rarely seen in
a healthy condition, though why this should be it
is hard to understand. Very few Zygopetalums
like disturbance at the root, hence repotting should
be done but seldom. Thrips also cause ill-health
and disfigurement, the nature of the young growths
rendering it difficult to get at them without injur-
ing the leaves in the process. Z. Mackayi and its
varieties crinitum and intermedium, with Z.
brachypetaluin, can easily be grown in well-drained
pots in equal portions of loam, peat, and sphagnum-
moss, a good sized piece of crock or nodule of
charcoal being placed here aud there to keep the
compost open. The temperature aud other con-
ditions of the Cattleya-house suit these plants best,
Z. maxillare may be fixed to a piece of tree Fern-
stem whose base is fixed in a flower-pot for
convenience of staging. It requires a similar
temperature but denser shade. My remarks apply
equally to Z. rostratum, excepting that this species
needs more warmth. As has been said, water must
be very sparingly afforded after disturbance,
except in the case of the last two, only affording it
iu quantity when the plants are re-established.
Never let water lodge iu the folded leaves.

Promencea eilrina, stapelioides, and xanthina,
now included under Zygopetalum, grow well when
planted in small hanging pans iu the Masdevallia-
house, aud in the usual Orchid-compost.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Foriescue, Esq., Dropinore
Maidenhead.

liaising Seedling Apples and Pears. — Those
who wish to raise new varieties should sow the
pips at this season. The plants, if not fit for
anything else, will provide stocks for grafting or
budding. If merely .stocks are to be raised, a
border with a west aspect should be prepared pre-
ferably, and the surface brought into a tine condi-
tion ; then shallow drills may be drawn J inch iu
depth and (i inches asunder, iu which the pips
should be scattered thiuly, aud be covered with the
finer particles of the soil. The plants will be
large enough for transplanting in the autumn in
Hues, about S inches asunder, aud 4 iuches apart
in the rows. The tap-root should be cut back
when transplanting, to induce branching of the
roots. If only a few seeds are to be sown, which
is usually the case iu private establishments, sow
them in boxes or pots, and staud these in a cold
frame or pit, aud grow the young plants iu pots or
boxes for a time. To raise a few seedliugs iu this
way gives but little trouble, and there is consider-
able interest in watching their progress, aud should
they turn out to be no improvement on existing
varieties, the labour expended lias not been great ;
while, on the other hand, the chances of a superior
variety being forthcomiug, the labour may prove
to be well repaid. The pips from any desirable
specimen Apple that may show a slight variation or
improvement on the type may be selected. Last
year I noticed among our Cox's Orange Pippius one
fruit more oval in shape than others, and this fruit
kept firmer into the spring mouths. The pips from
this one were sown, but whether the seedlings
differ from the parent iu keeping or other qualities,
has yet to be proved. There appears to be more
need for a late-keeping dessert Apple of good
quality than for early or mid-season varieties,
while cooking varieties are already much too
numerous. Pears may be raised similarly.

Transplanting Young Currant and Gooseberry
Bushes. — Any that are still in the cutting-bed

should now be removed to fill up vacancies, or
planted out in nursery rows at 18 iuches apart,
Before planting, let the longer roots be shortened,
also all stem-roots, and any buds on the steins
likely to form shoots under-grouud, or nearer to
the surface of the soil than 9 iuches.

The Black Currant bud Mite. — Every Black
Currant bush should be carefully examined, and if
there are swollen buds, remove the shoots affected,
and burn them forthwith. Oue of the best means
of prevention is said to be strong growth, aud to
this end weakly bushes should be cut hard back,
and top-dressed with rich decayed manure, wood-
ashes, and fresh loamy soil in about equal parts.
In forming new plantations, the rows should be at
wide distances apart, thus leaving space for some
other crop to be grown between, which assists in
checking the ready spreading of the mite from row
to row.

April ], 1S90.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

199

*i

o

a
§

H

>

•A

a

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strusnkll, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Lono
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.
The Early Peach-house.— The earliest varieties
in this house, if started early, December last, are
probably stoning, and for a time no apparent pro-
gress will be made. If there is any doubt about a
sufficiency of lime being present in the soil, it will
be well to apply some at ouce in a slaked state to
the border, and wash it down to the roots im-
mediately it is spread over the surface. Lime is a
very necessary agent in the growth of all stone
fruits, and if applied in small quantities no harm
can be done. The heavy strain imposed on the
trees that are carryiug full crops of fruit will
render necessary the application of a fair amount
of moisture to the whole depth of the border ; and
in the case of old trees, occasional application of
liquid mauure from the stable and cow-yard,
diluted to a safe strength, will be helpful. Arti-
ficial manures answer a similar purpose, but unless
something of a soluble nature be given, the trees
will not derive an immediate benefit. The tree
are better sustained if both natural and artiticial
manures are given. The growth of the trees will
uow lie rapid, and the shoots must be tied neatly
to the trellis, but retaining only sufficient to furnish
the tree without crowding. When thestoningperiod
has passed, the fruits will swell rapidly, and the
better they are then exposed to sunshine the better.
Where it happens that the foliage cannot be tucked
in behind the trellis wires or branches, pinch off
any leaves that directly overhang the fruit.

In Ha: Orchard house, — Peaches and Nectarines
will now be iu full bloom, and will need abundant
ventilation in suitable weather to assist pollination
of the (lowers. In cool houses there is usually
little difficulty in obtaining a good set ; a sharp
rap from the hand on each tree stem at noon dis-
persing a sufficiency of pollen grains. The same
remarks apply also to Plums, Pears, and Cherries
while in flower, but it is a safer practice to lightly
brush the open flowers daily with a rabbit's tail,
camel's hair brush or Pampas-plume. Where there
are the means for supplying it, fire heat may be
advantageously given during the flowering period,
but only sufficient to dispel damp and frosty air.
The severe weather of the past week or two has
proved a serious trouble to the open flowers in
unheated houses, and in very many instances light
rather than full crops are inevitable. Trees in
pots and borders in unheated houses have been
kept on the dry side at the roots, so as to lessen
the risks from frost, but sufficient water should
now be given to moisten the soil to the depth of
the border. Clearwater is sufficient at the present
stage. The orchard-house will conveniently ac-
commodate a batch of .Strawberries for supplying
fruit just previous to the ripening of the earliest
outdoor fruits. If they are put upon shelves,
these may be lined with fresbly-cut turf placed
grass side downward. Iu this the roots will enter
through the drainage hole, and find moisture aud
support when the sun has much influence. Wood
moss may be employed instead of turf if this can be
easily obtained in quantity, but unless the shelves
have side strips this would dry quickly. From
freshly-cut turf there arises just sufficient fresh
grass to protect the pots from undue exposure to
the sun.

Variorum.

•

Rhus toxicodendron: Poison -Ivy, and

ITS ANTIDOTE. — According to Dr. Pfalf, of
the Harvard Medical School, the poison of
this plant, which in some persons causes in-
tense irritation of the skin when commu-
nicated by touching the leaves, is a non-
volatile oil, insoluble in water, and therefore not
easily removed from the skin by washing. The oil
is soluble in alcohol, and is made innocuous by
sugar-of-lead. It will be seen by this that timely
washing of the irritated parts with alcohol will
serve to prevent injurious effects. Sugar-of-lead
mixed with alcohol till the mixture obtains a milky
appearance, is recommended in cases where irri-
tation has become very great from delay to apply
the remedy. It should be remembered that sugar-
of-lead is a poison, aud the solutiou must theref

only be applied externally. '' . I nu ricaii Gardt iiing."
[The old remedy, "Goulard Water," which is an
acetate of lead, answers the purpose very well. En.)

200

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April ], 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, as veil as specimens and plants for
naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Welling-
ton Street, Covent Garden, London. Communications

Should DC 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 sir/nature will not be printed, but
kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under-
take to pay for any contributions, or >■< return uuvscd 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 plantst flowers, trees, &c; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injur)/.

APPOINTMENTS FOR APRIL

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, Ar

THURSDAY, April 6

, ( Scottish Horticultural Association,

* I Meeting.

f Shropshire Horticultural Society

| Show at Shrewsbury.
5-[ Royal Caledonian Horticultural
Society Show, Edinburgh (3
I days). ,

Linnean Society Meeting.
Royal Horticultural Society of
Ireland, Exhibition.

SATURDAY,
TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY,

TUESDAY.

A i ■ i ; 1 1 8
April 11

( Royal
[ Irelai

Royal Botanical Society, Meeting.

Horticultural Society of
Land, Meeting.

,,,,,. nolRoyal Botanical Society, Ex-

APRlLl„-t hibitinM

Midland Daffodil Show in Edg-
April 13s? baston Botanical Gardens, Bir-

f1

3< UtlftlUll JO* Hil II II ill '

(_ niinghani (2 days).

c

WEDNESDAY, Aprii I

THURSDAY,
SATURDAY,

SUNDAY,

( Royal Horticultural Society, Com-
mittee.

1 National Auricula and Primula
April IS Sorirly, Exhibition at Rnyal
Horticultural Society Drill Hall ;
National Rose Society, Com-
mittee Meeting.

( York Florists' Exhibition of Ami-
\ culas, Hyacinths, &c.

April 20— Linnean Society, Meeting.

Art n 22 Royal Botanical Society, Sleeting.

/ International Horticultural Ex-
Ai PTt qii ' ldbition at Mont St. Amand.
AiRiLdo. Ghetlt) Belgium, continued tu

C May!'.

SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

at Frotherop & Morrib'

FRIDAY,

- / Orchids,
' ' 1 Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswiek, London, for
the period March 19 to March 25, 1899. Height above
sea-level 24 feet.

1899.

a

'A

IS
fa
O

"A
O

e

«

Temperature of
the Air.

J

Tr

TUR

Soil

MPERA-

: OK THE
AT 9 A.M.

o

u

5

<

At 9 a.m.

r. io

<
Q

-t-»

ID

■a

w

%

o

iJ

<
v.

«.

PS

ft

CD
V

o
•v

3

O

IN
3

•a »o

5 - =
22 <

(3

m

is

■1

<

9)
O

Sun. It!

N.

deg.
35-8

(leg.

33-2

deg. .leg.
40-82S-S

ins.

deg.
9

dog.
41-7

deg. deg.
43-8 19-4

Moh. 20

N.W.

34-332 039-7

2T-S ...

38-4

41-5

438 22-:;

Ti i -. 2]

W.N.W.

32i630-5 37-2

lO-s'O'OB

37'5 41-1

43-S

11-7

Wed. 22

N.W.

;l ii 29-4 11-2

23-5

30-6 40-5

43-8

16-4

Tur. 23

W.N.W,

3H-1 -•7P37-]

L'3'.s

30-4

40-2

435

15-5

Fill. 21

x.x.w.

36-6 32-i) 10 6

24-9

:;:,-,;

39-7

43-4

16-3

Sat. 25

S.W.

II ■'.';■.-.•!•, ls-1

20-0 n-17

sr.-r. 3-.I-3

43-1 11-0

Means...

3.V0

31-5 40-7

iTot.
24-] 0-211

37 1)

40-0

4S-616-2

Itcmarka

Willi sin. ii

,! 1 Oil till

— TllC w

^ iiurlli-\
25th.

lather during the week
cstcrly winds. tfnow f

msl
■11 in

cell 1

the

I'l-y i
21st

old,
and

Average Temperature for the ensuing w eek, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswiek.— 46 5 .

Actual Temperatures! —

London.— March 28 (12 p.m.): Max. 56"; Mill. 4.;°.
Provinces.— Mmrh 28 (6 p.m.): Mux. 55°, Ipswich;
Min. 45°, Slictlan 1,

We are pained to have to an-
Charles Naudin. nounce the death of one of the

most distinguished gardener-
botanists of our times. Charles Naudi.v, the
Director of the Experimental Garden at tho
Villa Thuret at Antibes, died suddenly on the
19th tilt., in his eighty- fourth year. To the
rank-and-file of gardeners his name will prob-
ably not be familiar, but those concerned with
the problems of systematic botany, hybridi-
sation, experimental cultivation, and the accli-
matisation and distribution of economic plants,

he carried on those remarkable experiments on
hybridisation which will secure for him a per-
manent place in the history of botany. Here
he studied with such minute care and accuracy
the difficult order of Cucurbitacea;, availing
himself largely of the resources afforded by the
garden, and by no means exclusively relying
on the study of herbarium specimens.

For several years M. Nai'iux cultivated
and made experiments on some 1200 of these
plants belonging to various species and varie-
ties, which by his observations and experiments,

THK LATH CHARLES NAUDIN.

will recognise that a mighty leader has fallen.
Naiiux was born at Autun in 1815, and has
been an occasional correspondent of this
Journal almost from the beginning. The friend
of Linpley, he extended his countenance and
co-operation to the present Editor also.

Records are not at hand, bid relying mi
memory, we may allude to some of the prin-
cipal features in his career. At the lime of our
first knowledge of the deceased naturalist, he
was in the service of the " Museum " at Paris,
the associate of Brongniart, and especially
of Deuaisne at the Jardin des Plantes, Hen-

he was enabled to range under three species,
each presenting very numerous and often
analogous variations. The description and
classification of the endless series of Gourds,
Cucumbers, and Melons, are extremely re-
markable, ami valuable for cultural purposes,
were il only for the practical hint obtained,
that in the case of such ulautsas the Melon and
Cucumber, if is better and more profitable to
endeavour to improve existing kinds, than to
introduce new kinds from other countries.

Here, too, he elaborated the Melastomacese,
and contributed to the famous Bon Jardinier

Supplement to 'The Gardeners' Chronicle," April 1, 1899.

The Palm Conservatory at Malvern House, the Residence of J. Burton, Esq.,

Mapperley, Nottingham.

Atril 1, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

201

and the Revue Horticole, and here he produced,
in conjunction with his friend Decalsne, one
of the most useful horticultural treatises that
exists, the Minimi de I'Amateur des Jardins,
Traite General d' Horticulture, a portion of
which was translated and adapted to English
requirements by Mr. He.msley in 1873.*

After leaving the Jardin des Plantes, Naudin
established himself at Collioure, in the Eastern
Pyrenees. In the genial climate of this spot
he was enabled to pursue his experimental
researches, and his efforts to acclimatise and
distribute to suitable localities plantsof economic
importance or ornamental character.

After the death of Thcret, the Villa Thurefc
was presented by his representatives to the
French nation. Thurbt, it may be remarked,
was not only a genial and sympathetic student,
and a most distinguished algologisfc, but he
had, in conjunction with his friend Bob.NET,
established a garden richly stocked with rare
and interesting plants, and wherein the two
botanists pursued their experiments in the
hybridisation of Cistuses and other plants.
When this little paradise became by gift the
property of the nation, it was worked as an
adjunct to the Paris garden, ami if all Europe
had been searched, no more competent a director
than Naudin could have been found fur it.
He threw himself into the work with energy
and zeal. The extension of the French colonial
possessions in Algeria and Tunisia afforded him
the opportunity of contributing to the develop-
ment of their resources by the introduction of
Eucalypts and other plants of economic iinpi irt-
ance. In this part of his work Nat/din was
helped by his ever zealous friend, Von Mi/eller,
and the Manuel de I'Acclimateur of the French
botanist, a most useful publication, is avowedly
based on the "Select Extra-Tropical Plants"
of his Australian collaborator.

Deafness and occasional severe attacks of
neuralgia and sciatica prevented Naudin of
later years from mixing much in the world
of horticulture or botany. His letters, how-
ever, were always fresh and full of information,
with many a classical or biblical quotation. He
did not content himself with the Greek of the
schools, but sometimes confounded his correspon-
dents with a phrase or two of modern Greek.
Nai din's merits were recognised by his own
and by foreign governments ; and what must
have given him even greater satisfaction, was
the knowledge of the esteem and veneration in
which he was held by his colleagues. Naudin
was a foreign member of the Linnean Society,
and i.i him in recognition of his great services
to gardening, and especially to hybridisation, a
Veitchian Medal was awarded in 1807.

The meeting of the Academic des Sciences on
the 20th ult. was suspended by the President,
M. van TlEGHEM, as a sign of mourning for the
father {doyen) of the Botanical Section.

The Malvern House Conservatory,

Mapperley. — Our supplementary illustration
shows the conservatory at Malvern House, Map-
perley, Nottingham, the residence of J. Burton,
Esq. As iu many such structures, the chief effects
are made to centre round some object prominent
for its size, or the form or beauty of its foliage or
stem, or of its Mowers. In Mr, Burton's, conser-
vatory this central object is a Giant Seaforthia
elegaus, which is rendered especially noticeable by
a stone curb surrounding the base, enclosing a
space which can be filled with any kinds of deco-

Handbooh oj Hardy Trie*, Shrubs, and Herbaceous Plants,
a i . (Longmans .

rative plants in season ; in this instance, these
consist of Coleus and Ferns iu variety.

The Protection of Birds.— The discrimi-

nation between birds useful and those that are
injurious to gardeners and farmers should, with
the increase of literature relating to the subject,
become more and more easy. For instance, the
Board of Agriculture publishes valuable leaflets
describing in brief space the nature and habits of
various British birds, and illustrating the different
species. We have before us two of these pages:
No. 54, the Spotted Flycatcher : and No. 55, the
Swallow. Leaflets such as these should be widely
spread abroad and studied. Copies of them will be
sent free of charge aud post-free on (unstamped)
application to the Secretary, Board of Agriculture,
4, Whitehall Place, S.W. Further, we note the
Eighth Annual Report of 'In Society for thi Protec-
tion of Birds (for January to December, 1898),
including a summary of the Wild Birds Protection
Act. Any efforts tending to foster and increase
rare and desirable species of birds deserve all
encouragement.

Distinctive Characteristics of the Sexes
OF Ginkgo biloba. The Journal de la Socii U
Nationale d' Horticultun ■ !■ France for February
contains a note upon the secondary distinctive
characteristics of the two sexes of Ginkgo biloba.
The species is known to be dioecious. Now with
trees that never bear either flowers or fruit it i.,
very difficult to distinguish the male from the
female specimens, and this is sometimes of im-
portance. M. L. Henry, head gardener at the
Museum, described in the Bidhlindi V Association
des anciens 4Uves d\ Vicoh d'Horlictdturt 'A Ver-
(1898, p. 597), an easy means of recognising
the sexes in this particular instauce. Mauy years
of careful observation have enabled SI. L. IIi.mii
to state that in Paris, with the female Ginkgo, the
leaves fall three or four weeks later than with the
male. Generally, male (iinkgos lose their leaves
completely at the end of October, or more frequently
at the beginning of November. At this period
the female (iinkgos still retain all their haves,
which are all greeu aud only turn yellow and fall
at the end of November, or even the beginning of
December. Premature frosts may accelerate this
fall. But, according to M. L, Henry, there is
always a very marked aud appreciable dilfereuce
between the season of the fall of the foliage of the
male aud of the female plants.

Spitalfields Market.— We some time since
drew attention to the possibilities attending the
scheme to transfer this popular East-end fruit
and vegetable market from the freeholder to the
County Council ; aud now we are informed that,
subject to parliamentary sanction being obtained,
the Public Control Committee of the L.C.C. have
arranged for the purchase of the freehold interest
of the market, together with the rights attaching
thereto, for the sum of £170,000, iu addition to a
sum of £1,250 for legal charges. The Council
intend, when in possession, to make great altera-
tions and improvements, in order that the market
may fulfil all modern requirements.

"The Orchid Hybrids."— We learn that
Sir. George Hansen, of Berkeley, California, is
engaged in compiling the third supplement to his
monograph, The Orchid Hybrid*. As he tiuds
the material accumulating so fast as to have diffi-
culty iu keeping uote of all hybrids, he intends to
print a uew index with the supplement in question.
It will be set by liuotype ; and as he will retain all
" slugs " as cast, it will only be necessary to inter-
polate all additions as presenting themselves for
future supplements, and the index will again be up-
to-date. As only sufficient copies will be printed
to supply all subscribers, no surplus stock will be
kept on hand, and a new index will be furnished to
every subscriber and purchaser of the additional
supplement. How laborious Sir. Hansen's task

is, is plain to all who ever attempted to register
the thousands of crosses raised. He invites the
co-operation of all interested iu the work, and
accepts gratefully every hint for improvement,
correction, or augmentation of his lists. He ex-
presses the desire to receive wider information than
the one accompanying the crosses as exhibited. He
desires to know the exact dates on which fecunda-
tiou took place, when the seed was sown, and when
the seedling reached the flowering state. Whether
such crosses had already been raised at different
places is immaterial to him, as he wants to register
every source of supply for the hybrids in the
different collections. It is saying but little to
acknowledge the usefulness of Sir. Hansen's work,
and to assist him in renderiug his work perfect is
but assisting ourselves.

The Madras Government Botanist. —
The Secretary of State has appointed Sir. I'. A.
Barber as Government Botanist in this Presi-
dency. His duties, as defined by the Local Govern-
ment iu the order communicating his appointment,
consist mainly in the prosecution of the systematic
botanical survey of the Presidency. He will be
also the constituted adviser of Government in
regard to all questions and inquiries in economic
botany that may be referred to him. The botanist
is expected to work in the field for about eight
months in the year. For working up the collec-
tions made in the field, the botanist will enjoy a
recess of three or four months at Ootacamund, which
will be considered his official headquarters. The
herbarium, being a necessary adjunct to his work,
and the more important books which formed the
official botanical library of the late Sir. Lawson,
will be transferred to the Government Botanist.
Madra j Mail. [ Iu this connection we have ouly to
remark that if the services of Mr. Barber are to
be utilised iu a manner that will render his appoint-
ment of some practical utility to the public, he
should be hampered as little as possible wit li red-
tape. Sir. Lawson was one of the ablest botanists
that the Sladras Government ever had, but his life,
we believe, was not worth living owing to the way
iu which he was worried by the Board of Revenue
Orders aud Resolutions. Eli. Indian Gardening.]

Grape Fruit. -In Medians' Monthly for the
present month is a representation of the Pomelo
(Citrus), showing the flowers growing in clusters,
and weighing down the branches with their weight.
It is probably this clustered habit that has caused
the fruit to be called "Grapefruit," The flavour
of the fruit, we are told, is very different from that
either of the Orange or the Lemon, and is seldom
agreeable to those wiio partake of it for the first
time, " but, as in other instances, it becomes
enjoyable iu time."

"THE GARDENER.'' One more periodical to add
to the twenty one (see WiUiny's PressGuidi i devoted
to gardening, and yet not one more, for with The
Gardener is incorporated Cottagt Gardening, for-
merly published by Messrs. Cassell at id. a week.
The Car Inn r is issued by the same firm at oue
penny. Paper and print are good ; the articles, if
we may so call them, are mostly scrappy, but
lightly touched, and readable. American methods
have been copied in some cases. Whether they
will be to the taste of English readers remain
to be seen. A first number seldom or never affords
a fair criterion, but we have never seen a more
promising oue thau this, aud we wish it every
success.

Testimonial to Mr. J. Wallis.— The many
horticultural friends of Sir. John Wallis will
regret to hear of his retirement from the position
of head gardeuer at Keele Hall, Staffordshire,
owiug to the untoward circumstances that have
overtaken this famous establishment. It is the
desire of the present owner, we believe, to let
Keele, and in the meantime the gardens will not
be maintained in their former condition. Some of
the young gardeners who have been associated
with Sir. Wallis at Keele, where he has been

202

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Ai'KiL 1, 1899.

upwards of twenty years, are raisiug a testimonial
in his favour, as an expression of their esteem.
Subscriptions may be sent to the Honorary
Treasurer, Mr. H. V. Booths!', Keele, Stafford-
shiro.

Rain Still Wanted.— The month of March
was unusually dry, and winds were frequent.
Cultivators hope for considerable showers during
April.

Rose Shows in the Present Year.— The
following is a list of fixtures kindly furnished by
Mr. Edward Mavvley, Rosebank, Great Berk-
hamstead, Hon. Secretary of the National Rose
.Society. It comprises all Rose shows, or shows in
which Roses form a feature, the dates of which are
definitely fixed that have as yet reached him.
He will he glad to receive the fixtures of
any Rose shows not named below, or those
of any horticultural exhibitions where Roses are
made a leading feature, for insertion in future
lists. June 14 (Wednesday), York (three days) ;
.lime 24 (Saturday), Windsor; June 27 (Tuesday),
Westminster (N. R. S.) ; June 28 (Wednesday),
Bath and Croydon ; June 29 (Thursday), Can-
terbury, Kltham, anil Norwich ; July 1 (Satur-
day), Crystal Palace (N. R. S.) ; July 4 (Tuesday),
Gloucester and Harrow ; July 5 (Wednesday),
Baling and Hauley (two days) ; July 6 (Thursday),
Colchester (N. R. S.) ; July 11 (Tuesday), Here-
ford ami Wolverhampton (three days) ; July 13
(Thursday), Brentwood and Helensburgh ; July 20
(Thursday), Salterhebble ; July 2.3 (Tuesday),
Tibshelf.

Presentation.— Mr. C. W. Know-lex, who
for the past seventeen years has occupied the post
of head gardener at Solna, Roehampton, and who
was recently appointed to a similar position at
Bagshot l'ark, the Surrey residence of H. R. H.
the Duke of Connaught, was recently presented by
some of his many friends with a clock in a marble
stand, and furnished with au appropriate in-
scription. G. H. Pitt, Esq., the treasurer of the
Putney, Wandsworth, and district Chrysanthemum
Society, made the presentation, remarking that
it afforded him great pleasure in handing over
the present, which was but a very small token
of the esteem in which Mr. KNOWLES was held by
his many friends. Mr. Knowles in feeling terms
thanked Mr. Pitt and his friends for the handsome
present, and said, though as a time-keeper it
would always remind liim of the valuable slice from
his life spent amongst them, it would also be a
reminder (if that were neoessary) of the pleasant
associations and the many staunch friends he had
formed in Putney and neighbourhood.

Her Majesty and the Gourds.— On Sunday
last the Queen visited the Feslindes Congourdons,
or sale of Gourds, at Nice ; but the event being
held on the Sabbath, she made no purchase.

Presentation to Mr. T. Turton.— When
it became known that Mr. Turton was leaving
Maiden Erlegh for Sherborne Castle, Dorset, ft
was felt by his numerous friends that the occasion
was suitable for evincing the high esteem and
regard in which he was held. The result was
shown on Wednesday, March 22, when Mr. and
Mrs. Turton met a few of the Committee at the
Abbey Hall, Reading, to receive from the hands of
Mr. C. B. Stevens (the President of the Gardeners'
Mutual Improvement Association), the presents
set forth in the following address :—" Your
numerous friends join in offering their hearty con-
gratulations on your important appointment to the
position of head gardener at Sherborne Castle. At
the same time they are conscious of the great lose
the Reading District will sustain by your departnre
from Maiden Erlegh. In the prominent position
you have occupied as Chairman of the Reading
Gardeners' Association, and as a member of the
committees of the Reading Horticultural and Read-
ing Chrysanthemum Societies, horticulturists have
had the benefit of your kuowledge and wide

experience. Especially do they ounger men feel
indebted to you for wise guidance and assistance
on numerous occasions. It has been felt that your
departure cannot be permitted without an expres-
sion of the high regard entertained for you as a
successful exhibitor, a generous comrade, and a
true friend, and you are now asked to accept the
accompanying gold watch and chain with a purse
of money as a token of good-will and esteem from
those friends whose names are hereafter appended.
We also beg Mrs. Turton's acceptance of a tea and
coffee service." There were upwards of one
hundred subscribers to the testimonial.

Linnean Society.— At the meeting of this
Society held on March 16, 1S99, Dr. A. Gunthek,
F.R.S., President, in the chair, Dr. John Lowe,
F.L. S., communicated some observations on the
fertilisation of Araujia albens, G. Don, a Brazilian
climber. Last summer it was blooming freely
in Lord Ilchester's garden at Abbotsbury, where
the flowers were visited by numbers of butterflies,
diurnal moths, humble-bees, wasps, and large flies,
many of which were captured and imprisoned for a
time in the pinching-bodies (Klemm-k'irper of
MGller). All these insects, with the exception of
some humble-bees, in their visits to the nectar left
their proboscis behind, and sometimes a leg, being not
strong enough to detach the pinching-body. Dr.
Lowe described the structure of the pinching-
bodies, which are flat horny plates, situated above
the nectar-cups, at each angle of a 5-sided hollow
eone in the centre of the flower, in which is placed
the stigma. There is only a small opening at the
apex and a narrow slit at the base of each facet of
the cone. To the upper point of the pinching-body
the pollinia are attached. When an insect has its
proboscis caught iu the slit, which narrows always
to its point, it can only escape by tearing away
the body with its pollen-masses, or by leaving its
proboscis in the slit. In the former case it carries
the pollinia to the next flower it visits, and thus
effects cross-fertilisation by leaving the pollen mass
between the anther- wings, whence it rapidly passes
iuto the cone. He had received a number of flowers
of Araujia from Mr. Benbow, the gardener at
Abbotsbury, in some of which he found the pro-
boscis of a butterfly or moth in each of the five
angles of the cone, showing the great destruction
of insect life caused by the plant. Mr. N. E.
Brown, A.L.S., who has made a special study of
the Asclepiadace.'e, gave an interesting account of
the manner in which the pollinia reach the stigma
and some further remarks were made by Mr. A
W. Bennett.

On the occasion of the eveuing meeting,

to be held on Thursday, April C, 1S99, at 8 r.M.,
the following papers will be read — 1, "On Carex
Wahlenbergiaua," by Mr. C. B. Clarke, M.A.,
F.R.S., F.L.S., &o. ; 2, "On the Discovery and
Development of Rhabdites in Cepualodiscus," by
Mr. F. J. Cole.

HOOKER'S "ICONES PLANTARUM ."— Part IV.

of the sixth volume (March, 1S99), of Booker's
lames, edited for the Bentham Trustees by Sir
W. T. Thiselton-Dver, contains illustrations of
several plants of botanical interest. Among them
various species of the Euphorbiaeeous genus Hevea
are given. The floral details of some of these are
siugularly like some of the Malvales or Sterculiads.
Odontospermum pygmieum, t. 2583, is a desert
Composite, shrivelling in dry weather, but expanding
when the rain comes, hence it has been (with
others) called the Rose of Jericho. Mr. Hemnley
contributes further details relating to the extraor-
dinary Pandanad named by him Sararanga siuuosa.

Fruit from the Cape. -The officials of the
Union Steamship Company inform us of the arrival
of the ships Hawarden Castle, and German. The
former brought 725 boxes of Grapes, 7 of Plums,
and 3(5 of Quinces ; total, 76S boxes. The Grapes
were all rather wet, and realised low prices ; some
were altogether poor and bad, and sold for a

nominal figure. The Quinces arrived in good con-
dition, but no market could be found for them, so
they were sold to private individuals. The Plums
were small, and in good condition, realising fair
prices. The German brought 420 boxes of Grapes ;
only 107 of these were placed on the market, 40
boxes realising fair prices, being in good condition ;
07 boxes were very bad, and sold for a mere
nothing ; 303 boxes were consigned to private
individuals.

International Horticultural Exhibition
at Mont St. Amand, Ghent.— The schedule of
this exhibition, which opens on April 30 next, com-
prises 808 classes. Prizes to the amount of 40,000
francs (£1600) are offered, as well as " objets d'art "
varying in value from 100 to 500 francs (£4 to £20).
M. Madou offers for competition a dinner service for
24 persons ; ninety-eight gold, and 14S other medals
will also be awarded, including medals from the
King aud Queen. Enquiries should be addressed
toM. PoELMAN-M.VENHAUT,Secretary of "L'Uuion,"
Mont St. Amand, Ghent.

Paris Chrysanthemum Committee.— The
February number of this committee's Journal is
unusually bulky, containing, as it does, eighty-
seven pages. Among its contents is an article by
M. Ernest Calyat on obtaining big blooms, than
whom few perhaps are better qualified to speak in
France. The report of the committee's work for
1S98 then follows, part of which is devoted to a
tabulated list of First-class Certilicates awarded.
There are also reports of au early-flowering show-
in Paris on October 13 last, aud of local Chrysan-
themum gatherings at Langres, Cognac, Troyes,
Paris, &c. There are several illustrations, and a
list of members concludes a somewhat interesting
number.

Publications Received. — Manual Pradco
do Viticvltor Brazileiro, pelo Dr. Campos da Paz
(Rio de Janeiro, Imprensa National). — Transac
lion* of the lioi/al Scottish Arboricultural Society,
vol. xv., Part III. This includes papers on the
"Establishment of State Model Forests for Scot-
land," expressing the opinions of French aud
German experts on the present forestry system ;
working plan for the pit, wood working circle,
Raith estate ; Recent investigations in Prussia in
regard to the quality of timber, Ac.

Home Correspondence.

EUCALYPTUS GUNNII. — The seeds of this hardy
tree were first sent me by my friend, David A.
Shennan, of The Estaucia, Negrete, Argentina, in
1887, who has naturalised various non-American
plants on the southern part of the province of
Buenos Ayres. Realising that unless perfectly
hardy they were useless to me, I gave them their
first transplant in September, 1S87, when about
10 inches high, to a newly-trenched hill-top of the
poorest gravel soil with northern exposure, among
a sowing of Carrots. They throve, or most of them
did, from the first, and soon began to make wood,
flowering in their fifth year from seed ; the buds,
just like Fig-buds, appear on the shoots of 1899,
only to burst into flower in 1900. I have some
500 to 700 plants planted out in woods, &c, raised
from English seed, and have given away many
more. The plant comes originally from the south
end, i.e., the coldest, stormiest, and most exposed
end of our southernmost Australian colony, Tas-
mania, a part of the colony where you realise the
fact of the South Pole. The lot originally sowed
have reached a maximum of 45 feet in height in
twelve years, aud a girth of 31 inches 4 feet from
the ground. Had I planted them in better soil, or
in a peaty wood, as I have since done, the results
would have much exceeded this. The drawbacks
to planting E. Gunnii in a cover is, that they
attract mightily both hares aud rabbits, aud, in
fields, sheep ; that they are apt to overgrow their
power to stand upright, and want stakes for a year
or two — or some of them do. They vary much in
habit, some being busby to the ground, some bare
for, say, 30 feet. The best 1 have (of the juuior or

April 1, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

203

pure British breed) has got his roots into a grave,
whose tenant died of small-pox, in the parish
churchyard, and it enjoys the situation hugely ;
he affects the bushy type. The hard winters of
four or rive years ago touched up some trees, which
lost a year's growth, but regained it in the next.
Brightlingsea village will be remarkable in, say,
1950, with hardy evergreeu Gum trees, 100 feet high,
as I give seed to all the inhabitants who want it,
and many are growers. Cheshire (Mr. Egertou
Warburton), Monmouth (Mr. Reginald Herbert),
Suffolk (Sir Cuthbert Quilter), Huntingdon (Mr.
Newton), Lincoln (Lord Ancaster), Devon, Surrey,
and Essex in particular, have been trying the
experiment with Essex-grown seed. The wood is
hard, aud presumably valuable. John Baleman.

PODOPHYLLUMS. — The best description I can
give of the manner these plants push through
the ground in the spring, is to say that they rise
from thence like a folded umbrella, aud when the
stalks are high enough, expand in the same way as
umbrellas are unfolded, with the difference that the
solitary circular leaves become flattened but round.

to be oval in shape, with small eyes, and from
what Mr. May told me, it is one of the latest
keeping varieties. H. M.

PASSIFLORA RACEMOSA SYN. PRINCEPS.— I
was pleased to note the favourable notice of this
beautiful and useful Passion-flower from the pen
of " E. S.," in the Gardeners? Chronicle. So far
as I remember, it is the only one that blooms in
racemes, aud the habit, character, and colour are
all that can be desired as a climber ou a glasshouse
roof or wall. The foliage is distinct aud striking,
aud goes well with the characteristic flower. In
cutting the flowers of this plant for decorative
purposes, the shoots should not be cut hard back,
as when a half-inch or so of shoot is left, one or
more racemes of blossoms will come ou it, after
the mauner of Hoya carnosa. Though I have
chronicled this fact before more than once, it does
not seem to be generally known nor acted upon,
hence my allusion to it here. The species may be
severely pruned by closely spurring the young
shoots back to the older shoots, as by so acting a
great, number of line blooms are produced. It is

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Flli. 77.— CHINESE PRIMULA "SWAN'LEY GIANT": A LARGE-FLOWERED FORM OF THE OLDER

VARIETIES ; PINK OR PURPLE IN COLOUR.

From u photograph from Messrs. II. Caniiel! & Sous, Sec article in our last issue, p. 179,

I received my plants from the greatest American
Shakesperian authority, collected, I believe, in the
country around Philadelphia — a sure proof of their
being very hardy. The flowers are singular owing
to the nakedness of the prominent seed capsule — a
large white Poppy in form, but bereft of its stamens.
P. peltatum develops yellow fruit in its native
habitat. This I have not seen on home-grown
examples. Podophyllum Emodi is of larger
growth, the leaves being distinguished by black
spots. It produces, moreover, large berries of a
bright scarlet colour. Both species succeed best
in a moist peaty soil. William Earley.

POTATOS: SYON HOUSE PROLIFIC— In Mr.
J. B. Joel's garden at Northaw House, Barnet, I
was recently shown a fine sample of this variety,
and to satisfy my enquiry as to their flavour I was
given a dozen tubers, haif of which I had baked,
aud the other half boiled, and in both cases I found
them to be of the very finest quality. Mr. May,
the gardener, who has taken many prizes at the
Royal Aquarium shows for Potatos aud other vege-
tables, speaks of Syon House as being the best receut
introduction which has come under his notice.
Gardeners do not, as a rule, record their experience
of new varieties of Potatos sufficiently, and they
might give much greater publicity to little-known
sorts. Syon House was raised by Mr. Wythes,
and received au Award of Merit by the Royal Hor-
ticultural Society iu 1S95. The tubers are inclined

pitiable to see this tine plant so mismanaged as to
be a mere taugle of shoots and bracts, with but
few perfect flowers, and these perhaps crushed
against the glass. The blooms are very effective
for the furnishing of vases, baskets, epergues, &c,
inasmuch as the bracts aud uuopeued flower-buds,
or the drooping racemes, are almost as beautiful as
the fully expanded flowers. D. T. F.

THE SHAMROCK.— If your correspondent, "D.,"
will refer to the Cybele Hibernica, ed. 2, p. 159 ; Irish
Naturalist, 1892, p. 95, and 1893, pp. 207, 349 to
361 ; Journal of the Proceedings of (hi Royal Socit ty
of Antiquaries of Ireland, vi'., 211 to 226, 340 to
361 ; or to the Dictionary of English Plant Namt s,
425. or to the first Irishman he comes across, he
will learn that the Wood-sorrel has uo claim to be
considered the Shamrock, in spite of its trifoliate
foliage. Considering how- much careful investi-
gation has been bestowed by Mr. Nathaniel Colgarn
and others upon this interesting antiquarian sub-
ject, it is, I think, to be regretted that literature
should be encumbered by uotes such as that printed
on p. 180. James Britten, British Museum.

PROSPECTS OF FRUIT-CROPS.— Here at the

present time there are prospects of an abundant
crop of hardy fruits. In many cases the number
of flower-buds is so great that I am doubtful if it is
not the reverse of a blessing, as trees thus loaded
with bloom not unfrequeutly fail to crop so well as

those on which there is only a moderate show.
Trees, however, which grow ou a deep strong soil,
as ours, are not so liable to fail from superfluous
flowering, as those which may have their vitality
enfeebled by drought acting on shallow, light soils.
Trees on a clay soil are more robust and naturally
stronger, aud their sufferiugs from lack of moisture
less trying. What is to be feared is frost at the
flowering time, which ruins our hopes when every
other condition may be in favour of a good crop.
[The reeeut frosts have occurred siuce this paragraph
was written. Ed.] Last year there were complaints
iu some districts of Plum-trees having suffered from
drought, but nothing was harmed excepting Straw-
berries. Strong growing varieties of fruit-trees were
benefited, on the contrary, by the check the heat aud
dryness caused, which acted on them in a maimer
similar to that caused by root-pruning. In a garden
planted with pyramids and bushes iu 1S93, the
Pears this year are unusually promising, even kinds
which cropped heavily last year are prolific of (lower-
buds. Of this I may name Baronne de Mello,
Beunv Diel, B. Fouqueray, B. Hardy, Doyenne du
Cornice, aud Louise Boune of Jersey. Whilst
Catillac, Bellissirne d'Hiver, Marie Benoist,
Souvenir du CongreS, Triomphe de Vienne, and
Josephine de Malines, usually shy bearers, are
thickly set with flower-buds. Tt may be re-
marked that the last-named, owing to its flower-
ing upon the points of the shoots, is better as a
pyramid, or bush, than as a traiued tree agaiust a
wall, or as a cordon, or espalier. Of Plums,
Denniston's Superb, Rivers' Early Prolific, Grand
Duke, Jefferson, Kirkes, and Oullin's Golden Gage,
afford the finest show of flower-buds. The Czar,
Monarch, and Pond's Seedling, having the fewest.
Cherries are likewise promising, especially Belle
Magnilique (a prolific form of Morello), May Duke,
aud Late Duke. Apples with the following
exceptions are very promising, Annie Elizabeth,
Dutch Mignonne, Gascoigne's Seedling, Gloria
Mundi,Lady Sudeley, LordBurghley, and American
Mother. A row consisting of thirteen trees of
Bramley's Seedling, which in no year have borne
more than a few fruits, are well furnished with
flower-buds, a result of a severe pruning of the
roots, carried out in the autumn of 1S07. Thos.
Coomb r, Tin Hendrt Gardens, Monmouth.

NEW AND OLD VARIETIES OF THE POTATO.—
The Potato, like many other vegetables, has beer
greatly improved in the last thirty years. It used
to be thought that nothing surpassed the Ashleaf
variety in flavour, and many persons will have it
at their tables as long as it is possible ; aud after
this variety is past, then they rely upon Maguum
Bonum, which lasts iu good condition till the Ash
leaf comes iu again — two good Potatos, no doubt,
which would take a lot of beating if only two were
to be grown. But if the garden is not large
enough to allow of the Ashleaf being planted iu
sufficient quantity to supply a large household,
then other more prolific croppers must be plauted,
and Ashleaf be grown only for the best table. 1
put nearly as much value upon a good late Potato
as upon early ones ; in this way, when the demand
is large, digging must not be started till the supply
is equal to the demand. This can be easily
effected if but Magnum Bonum and Up-to-Date are
planted, as these are valuable varieties of good
quality, until the mouth of July if necessary, and
therefore after New Potatos are fit for consump-
tion. Usually the cook is glad of some firm old
Potato for making up dishes. If there is plenty of
ground at command, new varieties should be
tested ; but those who are restricted in that par-
ticular, perforce have to rely upon the experience
of others, as related iu the gardening press, &c.
The following have been tried at Compton Basset,
and found excellent, namely — Sutton's Harbinger,
Ringleader, Early May, Sharpe's Victor, Carter's
First Crop, Advancer, and Early Favourite ; these
are early, free-cropping varieties, of good quality.
As Mam-crop varieties, cropping well, of excellent
quality, and capable of resisting disease to a certain
extent, are Carter's Snowball, a very fine Potato,
a cross between Schoolmaster and The Canon,
of nice shape, round in form, with shallow eyes,
and a rough skin, white when cooked, of the finest
quality, aud a heavy cropper; Carter's Monarch,
also raised from Schoolmaster, an excellent round
Potato ; Ideal, a prodigious cropper, very hand-
some, well suited for exhibition, and yet excellent
for the table ; Sutton's Windsor Castle, a heavy
cropper, and resisting disease ; Sutton's Reliance
keeps well, and crops splendidly, a tine exhibition

204

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 1, 169P.

tuber, not liable to take the disease ; Magnum
Bouum Improved, a most trusty variety for a late
supply ; Up-to-date, a late Potato, aud a huge
cropper, with large tubers, good for field culture,
nice flavour, and keeping till a late date, one of the
heaviest croppers extant. Nothing is more inju-
rious than close cropping, and I afford a space of
3£ feet between the rows, so that I can interline
with other vegetables. Late varieties of robust
habit at this distance produce large crops, and being
less crowded are not so liable to become diseased
as close-planted rows. I find there is no manure
equals that from the farm-yard, laid on the land
before digging it : blood-and-bone manure being
afford at planting-time at the rate of 6 to 10 cwt.
per acre. W. A. Cook, Compton Basset.

APPLE MANNINGTON'S PEARMAIN. — This
fine late dessert Apple is considered to be
one of the richest and best - flavoured of table
varieties. It is now a very old variety, having,
according to the Fruit Manual, originated as
far back as 1770, in a garden which twenty
years ago was in the possession of Mr. J.
Manningtou. It is supposed to have originated
as a chance seedling, for the tree was found in a
hedge-row, a small scrubby specimen, on a spot
where a cider-mill and press were formerly worked,
and is supposed to have been produced from a pip or
kernel from the pulp thrown away after pressing.
This tree never attained to any great size, but con-
tinued to preserve a stunted habit of growth till it
died, about the year 1S20. Grafts were taken
from it, and so the variety remained in the neigh-
bourhood until the autumn of 1847, when speci-
mens were sent to the London Horticultural
Society, and Mr. Thompson named it Mannington's
Pearmain. It was them distributed by Mr.
Cameron, nurseryman, of Uckfield, Sussex, who
said of this Apple that "the fruit should be
allowed to haDg late upon the tree before it is
gathered, so as to secure its peculiar richness of
flavour, and long period of duration ; for if gathered
too soou, it loses much of its tine richness, and is
very apt to shrivel. This must have been the case
with some fruit which came into my possession a
short time since ; a few were shrivelled, the flesh
hard in texture, aud wanting in flavour, while the
plump fruits, apparently more matured, had that
rich flavour peculiar to the variety. Dr. Hogg's
description of the habit of giowth is confirmed by
experience: — "The tree does not attain a large
size, but is perfectly hardy, and an early and excel-
lent bearer, young trees, only two or three years
from the graft producing a considerable crop of
handsome well-grown fruit. It was first put into
commerce in 1849 by Mr. Cameron, dwarf, maiden
trees being sold at half a guinea each. It, 1).

SEQUOIA GIGANTEA AND OTHER TREES.— A
good specimen of the Wellingtonia compels admira-
tion. Have many of us reflected what root-anchorage
the tall, graceful specimens seen occasionally require
to keep them in an upright position ? Having occa-
sion recently to move one that was growing on the
estate of E. S Hanbury, Esq., Hertfordshire, my
curiosity was somewhat satisfied on that poiut,
the number aud size of the roots beiug sur-
prising. The tree in question was not a very tall
one, the height beiug 42 feet 8 inches, and the cir-
cumference 3 feet from the ground measured 7 feet
9^ inches. Through some cause or other it unfor-
tunately lost its leader many years ago, that being
one of the reasons for now removing it : besides
which, it spoiled the view obtainable of the adjoining
trees. The soil and subsoil vary very much at this
place, but this particular tree had been planted on
a bed of clay, which had to be chipped away with
pick-axes, so hard and dry had it become round
the base of the tree. I should be glad to know if
any one in England has felled so large a specimen
of this species. There are other trees of the same
variety here, one beiug upwards of 70 feet iu
height, 12J feet iu circumference 3 feet from the
ground, with a spread of branches 30 feet in
diameter. The collection contains some good
specimens of Cedrus atlantica and C. Libani, the
former beiug remarkable for their glaucous appear-
ance. Sequoia sempervirens is also represented,
one specimen measuring 9 feet 2 inches in circum-
ference 3 feet from the ground, and being at least
50 feet in height. It is densely furnished with
branches from top to bottom. A. W.

SKIN IRRITATION CAUSED BY PRIMULA
SINENSIS LEAVES.— Is it generally known that
Primula sinensis is quite as liable to cause irritation
as the Primula obcouica? my attention has been

called to the fact by a gardening friend of
mine, the skin of whose hands and arms was so
irritated that he could not get any rest for several
nights ; the variety in question was Rosy Queen.
It would be interesting to hear if you or auy reader
of the Gardeners' Chronicle have ever heard of a
similar case. My friend, I may state, grows no
other species of Primula than P. sinensis. J. B.
Wilton, Haselbech Hall Gardens.

AN ADVERTISER'S COMPLAINT. — I applied for a
vacancy for a head gardener, which was recently
advertised. With my letter I enclosed testimonials
for inspection. In two days the testimonials were
returned in an unstamped envelope, for which 2d.
was charged by the postal authorities. There
was not a word inside to say if the sender was
suited or otherwise. I wonder if any other ad-
vertiser has had a like experience. I enclose
envelope for your inspection. A. J.

THE ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND. —
As your correspondent, Mr. J. B. Stevenson, has
referred so pointedly to me in his recent commu-
nication on the above subject, I would like to
explain that I agree with him that single candi-
dates from any family should always have prefer-
ence over a second candidate from the same family,
although now and then cases do occur in which
there may be but one, or two at the most, orphan
children iu a family, and iu another, four or
more quite little ones ; aud where that is so, such
a case is a more distressful one than is the first.
But my suggestion made at the general meeting,
viz., that there should be at least four children
under twelve years of age to entitle a second to
become a caudidate, was meant to strengthen the
hands of the committee, as evidently that body was
scandalised on finding an effort made to put a third
child from one family on to the Fund, practically
exploiting it in a most improper way, whilst I felt
equally scandalised to find the only two children of
one family were both nominated : aud such au
amendment as I suggested would have in future
rendered such nominations impossible. I hope the
committee will agree to give effect to this proposal
as an amendment to the rules at the next annual
general meeting. With respect to the objections
gardeners entertain against subscribing, some are
of a nature it would not be well to publish. Some
are based on one thing ; net a few on distrust in
connection with the elections ; but the greater
portion is based on absolute indifference. Men
who have little ones think their children will never
want the Fund's benefits, and because these men
will not subscribe, others shelter themselves behind
the objection that if fathers of little ones will not
try and help themselves a little, why should tl.ey ?
With our philanthropy, we are in danger of bring-
ing those who should try to help themselves into
a condition of utter indifference. A. I>.

CARNATIONS EATEN BY THE SPARROWS. —
Although the winter favoured the Carnation out-
doors, some cultivators in my neighbourhood have
had to contend agaiust a plague of sparrows, and
so serious is the mischief wrought, that scarcely a
plant has escaped their attention. Several col-
lections I have observed lately present the fame
appearances as my own. At first I was at a loss
to account for the damage, as although rabbits are
numerous, the Carnation-beds are surrounded by
rabbit proof wire-netting, 4 feet high. At length, I
discovered the miscreants were sparrows — no fewer
than six of the birds could be seen at times pecking
the plants. The damage inflicted is almost as
great as that caused by a rabbit. The best deter-
rent is soot dusted on the leaves when moist. A
Carnation plant is sent for your inspection.
/•;. Scaplehorn, Woking. [The leaves aud small
shoots were closely nibbled, as if by a rabbit. It
would be well another year to plant Lettuces or
other herb more succulent than the "grass" of
the Carnation, as "tit-bits" for the sparrows,
and thus wean them of their naughtiness. Our
owu Carnations have suffered in a similar manner,
but we are not sure whether, iu our case, pigeons
are not the culprits. Ed.]

HARDY FRUITS AND THE WEATHER. — Last
spring, during the flowering-time, sharp frosts,
accompanied by snow and raiu, played great havoc
with the various kinds, and I fear that this year
full crops will be the exception, not the rule, unless
we get more genial weather. The week which
ended on March 25 was most exceptional for down-
right [wintry weather, 12°, 14°, 18°, 16°, 14°,
16", 17°, of frost respectively, with cold biting
winds, and storms of snow at intervals, were expe-

rienced on successive days. By the accounts iu
the papers we do not seem to have had so heavy a
snowfall as in other parts. The storms in this locality
were of short duratiou, and the snow was rapidly
dispersed by the sun. Apricots and Peaches have
about half their blossoms expanded, but I do not
think these have suffered much, so far as can be
seen, being well protected by wall copings and fish-
netting. The blossom-buds of Pears and Plums,
with the exception of one or two of the earlier
flowering varieties are still unexpauded. Small
fruits are late this year, and the leaves have but
just began to unfold. All kinds of hardy fruit-
blossoms have a promising look. Geo. Woodgate,
Rolleston Hall Gardens, Staffordshire.

THE WEATHER AT BATTLE, SUSSEX.— The
following is a record of the amount of frost regis-
tered by thermometer in the gardens at Battle
Abbey, inside the walls, at 3 feet from ground : —
19th, 12°; 20th, 12°; 21st, 18°; 22nd, 22°;
23rd, 14° ; 24th, 14° ; 25th, 17°. Peach and Plum-
trees on south walls were in full bloom, and covered
with hexagon netting, do not appear at present to
have suffered much. A welcome change set iu on
Saturday. Win. Camm.

IN NORFOLK. — On Wednesday, March 22,

the wind continued to blow strongly from the
north-west, aud the air was very nipping iu the
shade, although there was a good deal of sunshine.
The wind died away before midnight, and our
Negretti & Zambra thermometer had fallen to 24°
two hours earlier. The lowest reading ou Thurs-
day at 6.30 a.m. showed 12° of frost, and snow
fell between 7 aud 9 A.M. to the depth of 1 inch,
the wind backing to the south-ward. It is now
calm, and the worst seems to be over. /. Batters,
Gillingham , Norfolk.

IN THE MIDLANDS.— We were visited on

Tuesday, March 21, with a very heavy snow-
storm, accompanied with severe frost, the effects
of which will, I fear, prove disastrous to the
fruit crops, more especially Apricots, Peaches,
and early Pears. In these gardens those trees are
protected on walls with a double thickness of lish-
uetting, aud in winters of ordinary severity this
protection suffice ; butuow, with such unprecedented
weather, the fruit-blossoms have a burnt look.
About 3.50 p.m. ou Tuesday the sky suddenly
became overcast, the wind rose, and darkness set
iu, and large flakes of snow fell quickly, covering the
ground. The rapidity with which the thermo-
meter fell was marvellous. The reading at 7-30
showed 16° of frost, which is as low a degree of
cold as has been registered here this winter. On
Wednesday morning it showed 18°. The baro-
meter has remained nearly stationary during the
week, the maximum being 2970 inches. On
Thursday it is steady at 29'58 inches, and snow is
falling rapidly. The previous mildness oaused
vegetation to advance rapidly, aud it will be very
surprising if the fruit-blossom is not irreparably
damaged. //. T.Martin, Stoneleigh Abbey Odns.,
Warwickshire.

MAEKET GARDENING IN THE
CHANNEL ISLANDS : JERSEY.

(Couth) ued from p. lip.)

BAGOT Manor. -On Monday, September 12, I
was taken to the establishments of Mrs. Bashford,
one of the largest fruit-growing places in Jersey.
The space covered with glass is very great, and the
quantity of produce constantly sent away reaches
very high figures. Tomato Bashford's A I, a well-
known variety grown here, invariably commands a
higher figure than any other variety in the market.
The situation seems tube adapted to the cultiva-
tion of the various subject-!, aud with care and
sufficient labour bestowed good returns are reached.
The produce consists almost entirely of Pears,
Crapes, Tomatos, Kidney Beans, aud Polatos, with
an occasional crop of \ lucumbers or Melons. Of these
four last-named kinds, there were few signs just at
the time, though the multitude of boxes of Seed
Potatos standing in shady places out of doors,
clearly showed that this branch of labour was
shortly to be engaged in. The first three named,
claimed daily attention.

The Tomatos were fouud in spleudid condition,
house following house, and such houses, too. In
one block there were six houses, the smallest being
300 feet by 36 feet, increasing in size according to

April 1, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

205

the amount of apace at command, to 500 feet by
40 feet. The plants are set out, sometimes, across
the houses ; in others the rows run right through,
from end to end, and so, looking at one end, avenues
of plants reach the whole of the distance.

The morning of my visit 150 baskets had been
sent away, each basket carrying 10 to 14 lb. of fruit.
The gathering, sorting, and packing of this quantity
of fruit is no small task ; but no sooner has this lot
been dispatched from one side of the establish-
ment than gathering is taking place in the other
part, and ere 1 left I saw another lot being packed,
&c, so that the next morning another hundred
baskets would be put on the steamer.

As may be supposed, the fruit, though coloured,
is not dead ripe, and it bears the packing and
transit well, so that a bruised fruit is scarcely ever
found. Great care is bestowed on the packing of
the baskets : the bottom has a layer of paper
shavings, on which fruit is laid, then other layers
of shavings and fruits, till the basket is brim full,

freights on board. The Potatos, packed in barrels
and basket hampers, are brought down to the
steamers in the farmers' vans, and it is not an
uncommon sight to witness a procession of these
vans a mile in length awaiting their turn to unload.
And now we look in at some of the viueries ;
here is a house devoted entirely to Muscats, from
which do less than 5 tons have been gathered
ami disposed of. Some 11,000 bunches had been
cut, and as this variety always commands the
highest price, the value of such a crop may be
readily grasped. These Vines are twelve years old,
in good heart, with canes and buds stout and plump,
the roots being inside and outside. As may be
imagined, a great deal of labour is bestowed on such
a house, besides which, some 30 tons of farmyard-
manure are used as a top-dressing inside, and con-
siderable quantities on the outside border also.
This inside mulching forms but a slight covering,
and superphosphate of lime, guano, and other
manures, are freely used. It is surprising to see

Fig. 78. — Chinese primrose "her majesty."
From a photograph from Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons. See article in our last issue, p. 179.

the whole is then covered with several layers of
tissue paper, laid all round the inside, and well
secured by string, laced several times across the
top; a label is attached, and the basket is ready
for its journey of 200 or 300 miles. It is no
unusual thing to have one or more baskets in
each boat taken by the customs officials at Wey-
mouth and Southampton and carefully examined,
the basket untied, the top paper removed that the
conteuts may be seen, the coverings then are
replaced and tied tightly down again, and passed
on with the others.

As soon as the Tomatos are finished, the borders
in the houses are prepared for planting Ashleaf
Potatos, the planting of which takes place
in November. This crop comes quickly forward,
and as soon as the tubers are ready they are dug
up, packed, and sent away, the many persons
now engaged iu this business causing the scenes at
the landing-stages to be unusually lively. During
the season, from April to July, when those outside
follow so quickly the crop from the houses, the
harbour of St. Helier is full of life and bustle, the
whole of the quays being occupied with vessels,
often berthed two or three deep, taking their

the number of bags of these manures in many of the
sheds, the ageuts for these essentials, will, I doubt
not, rind iu the islands a good outlet for much of
their goods. Another house of Black Hamburgh
(Trapes, 450 feet by 36 feet, was seen ; and then we
had a look inside a house known by the "Three
7's," this being just 777 feet long, in which the first
crop to be taken was to be Potatos planted iu
November. As soon as this crop is lifted, say in
April and May, Sutton's Climbing aud Canadian
Wonder Kidney Beans are sown, and when these
have produced their crop, Tomatos are planted ;
thus, three good crops are secured in one year. A
houseful of Gros Colniar Grapes was just in the
colouring stage.

And now, as one hive of industry is
passed for another, Pear-trees came constantly
in view ; in fact, almost every available spot is
occupied by them. The wall-trees were a wonder-
ful sight ; one wall being 1200 feet long, and
almost the entire surface is covered with trees
of Doyenne du Cornice, Beurre Clairgeau, Uvedale
St. Germains, EasterBeurre, &c. The first-named
variety occupies the largest amount of space, and
the fruit would weigh from 1 lb. to 1J lb. each.

Many of the finest fruits for safety's sake were
covered with muslin bags. Trees on walls of
Louise Bonne of Jersey and Winter Nelis were
also carrying a fine crop, but these varieties are
less grown on the island. The trees were pictures
of good culture. There was a large number of
pyramidal trees 5 to 10 feet, the lower lateral
shoots removed, those at the upper part alone
remaining, and the fruit ou these trees was
in grand form, abundant aud large. These
consisted of Williams' Bon Chretien and Pit-
maston Duchess varieties, that exist in great
numbers of fruiting trees, the trees them-
selves not being for sale. The fruit was putting
on the last patches aud streaks of colour, so indi-
cative of thorough maturity. Four tons of Wil-
liams' Bonne Chretien had already beeu gathered
aud sent off, and daily gatherings were taking
place. To go over these large quarters examining
the whole, picking for to-day, and mentally noting
those ready for the morrow, is a piece of work
needing experience, diligence, and much practice.
We came across large breadths of Doyenne du
Cornice and Williams', each tree a specimen, from
which many fruits had been plucked, and a fair
crop still hanging. Of "Williams, "some 30 tons were
gathered altogether, large fruit, regular in size,
aud of excellent flavour. The top-dressiug afforded
these trees is a special feature. More Chaumontels,
which I was informed was not quite so large as in
some former years ; Catillac, Van Mons Lion le
Clerc, and oue or two others ; the three varieties,
Williams' Bonne Chretien, Pitmaston Duchesse,
aud Doyenne du Cornice, are those mostly depended
upon. Doubtless soil and climate have much to do
with the production of such Hue fruit; but skill
counts for much, and here it is exhibited in a high
degree. A few varieties only are cultivated, viz.,
those which crop well in the generality of years,
and travel 2(10 or miles away without loss or injury.
My guide was an intelligent native, whose years
of service numbered about thirty. He alluded to
his successes modestly, aud to his disappointments
willi 1 mt a word, always cheery, and always antici-
pating better things next year; it was a pleasure
to me to have met so sauguiue a man. It was
anticipated that ere this season closed 60 tons
of Pears would be gathered, a ready market await-
ing the fruit. How trying and hazardous the
business is may be gathered from the fact that in
one year 16 tous of fruit were gathered from one
part of the grounds, and the year following but
I ti cut. were secured ; so that disaster sometimes
comes even to this sunny isle. It would need
almost as much labour to attend to the trees when
the hundredweights were gathered as when tons
rewarded the owner. My notes still run ou walls
covered with fruit-trees, quarters of "Williams,"
Doyenne, and Pitmaston Duchess, grand fruits,
heavy crops, thick mulching, free mauurings, but
I forbear. I was much interested, highly pleased,
aud now acknowledge my sincere thanks to my
guides, both lady aud manager. From our Special
Correspondent.

(To '»■ continued.)

THE MARECHAL NIEL ROSE.

A aooD deal may doubtless be done in the
future as in the past to improve the health and
extend the life of individual plants of this best and
most fragrant of all golden Roses, through the
matiug of it with more suitable stocks, as so often
suggested by different growers, and again, by
"A. D.," aud the Editor on p. 57. But after
many years' experience, I much doubt if auy mere
question of mechanical matiug or uniformity of
growths between scion and stock will entirely cure
the gout, warts, or wens which so often wreck and
ruin its health, beauty, and life. Cougruous
mating of stocks with scions may modify this innate
tendency — hardly cure it. This needs no further
confirmation than the fact that the striking pro-
tuberances are by no means unknown ou Maivclial
Niel Roses on their own roots. The gout, or what-
ever else we may call it, lies deeper in the constitu-

20G

THE GA 1? DENE fiS> CHR ONI CL E.

[ April 1, 1899.

tiou than mere accidental mistakes of mating can
account for. Its outbreak and development are
more like a veritable and active disease in itself
than any mere block or derangement of circula-
tion through the vessels of this particular Rose.

Further, if this is the sole or chief reason for the
gout, warts, or wens in this Rose, how is it that
the disease is wholly confined to this variety,
seeing that the faulty mating scion and stocks is
one of the most common faults of cultivation.
[We have remarked the same thing in Rose Mrs.
Bosanquet. Ed. J Not, however, that I would
discourage the most skilful mating between scions
and stock. On the contrary, I have tried almost
all possible stocks, and not a few that might have
seemed impossible. The stronger Teas, such as
Homt-re, Gloire de Dijon, Marie Henriette, proved
good stocks, though they did not wholly cure the
gout out-of-doors nor under glass. It may also be
added that standard Dog-rose stock about 3 feet
high, grown for late autumn bloom on a north-
cast border showed little or no gout, and were
invaluable for furnishing good supplies of golden
Roses through August, September, October, and
in mild wiuters well through November.

But so far as mastering or reducing this trouble-
some disease was concerned, my best stock was the
yellow Bauksian Rose. Those familiar with the
two Roses will at once see that the roots or stems
of the yellow Banksian Rose could hardly overfeed
the Marechal Niel.

Be that as it may, too exclusive attention has
probably been concentrated on mere over-feeding,
or irregular distribution of food supplies. Nor
must it be too hastily assumed that any Banksian
Rose will form an equally good stock for the
Marechal Niel. On the contrary, the white is not
equal to the yellow, and the large white or For-
tunei, which I have always held to be a true Bank-
sian Rose spoilt, is the worst stock of the three
Bauksians. I do not advocate the yellow Banksian
as a perfect cure for the " gout " amoug Marechal
Niel Roses, but the nearest to a cure we have
yet attained. D. T. Fish.

MAEKET GAEDENING UNDEE

GLASS.

Fruits. — Vines and Peaches in their various
stages of growth require prompt and frequent
attention — in the way of disbudding and training of
the shoots retained for furnishing the trellis with
bearing wood for another year. In these days of
express growing, it does not take long to fill a
vinery or peach-house with bearing Vines and
trees treated on the extension system, that is, by
allowing both Vines and Peach trees to make a free
extended growth, simply removing superfluous
and extra strong growths in due time in the case
of Peach and Nectarine trees planted last and the
previous autumn.

Young Vines which have been planted during
the present mouth with the intention of securing
fruiting Vines as soon as possible, should be given
a high and uniformly moist atmosphere until the
Vines have reached the top wire of the trellis, when
a more airy and dry atmosphere will be beneficial
in order to ripen the wood properly. Meantime,
lateral growths should be kept hard pinched to one
joint from the main rod, stopping the latter about
three feet from the bottom wire, ami pinching out
the young growths resulting from this stopping in
the axil of the top leaf. This will cause the bud
or eye (which would otherwise remain dormant
until another year) to push into growth. The
temporary check thus given to the terminal growth
causes that below to thicken, and the eyes in the
axils of individual leaves to become plump. The
operation being repeated two or three times during
the period of active growth, good fruiting-rods and
ejes of uniform thickness and plumpness will be
secured for next year. With regard to the crop-
ping of established Vines, the length and strength
of the individual rods should determine the num.

ber of bunches that should be retained on each
Vine for a crop. Indeed, so long as the Viues are
in robust health aud are generously treated by
giving good top-dressings of some reliable artificial
manure before applying water at the roots, it is
surprising what immense crops such Vines are
capable of ripening, at the same time making
robust growth. However, one bunch may lie left
on each shoot with perfect safety, assuming that
only one lateral was left to each spur at the time
of disbudding.

The same remarks apply to the cropping of
Peach and Nectarine trees. Where the trees are in
the best possible condition, the fruit may be
thinned out from six to eight inches on the tree as
soon as a good set has been secured ; and at this
distance the fruits will come pretty close to each
other by the time they are ripe, and reach top
prices in the market notwithstanding.

French Beans.

Remunerative crops of French Beans may be
grown in the Vine borders without interfering
with the welfare of the Vines in any way ; the
warm moist atmosphere being very suitable to
them.

ToMATOS.

Where Tomatos are grown in the same house
with Vines, the latter will take about three years
to become fully established ; the houses, being
treated expressly for the Tomato, the Vines make
a slow but sturdy growth in the dry airy atmos-
phere necessarily observed. H. W. Ward.

Notices of Books.

treated with some originality, as is shown by a
statement in the preface to the effect that "the
best part of the book is the table of contents." In
so far as this shows an orderly, logical presentation
of the facts, this remark is true ; but, nevertheless,
we think the best of all exercises for the student is
not to trust to someone else's summary or table of
contents, but to make the "analysis" for himself.
Under the heading of The Soil, the reader is intro-
duced to the contents of the soil, its texture,
moisture, tillage, and enrichment. These chapters
are written by different persons attached to Cornell
University.

The second part of the volume is devoted to the
plant and the crops, including the relation of the
plant to its surroundings, how the plant lives, how
it is propagated, the preparation of the laud for
seed, the subsequent care of the plant, pruning,
training, the management of pasture lands. The
remainder of the volume is devoted to the animal
life on the farm. The book is clearly written, and
well adapted for its purpose.

The Culture of the Chrysanthemum.
By W. Wells.

Tiik handy little cloth-covered manual bearing
the above, title purports to be a new aud revised
edition of a former issue ; but it is only fair to the
author to say it is almost an entirely new publica-
tion, for it seems to have been in a great part re-
written, enlarged, and more fully illustrated than
its predecessor.

As a grower of big exhibition blooms, the author
is certainly well qualified to speak, and his com-
pendium now before us seems to cover the whole
range of Chrysanthemum culture in all its phases.
As instances of which, the titles of only a few of
the chapters must suffice, viz., Stopping, and its
Object ; Early-flowering Chrysanthemums ; Housing
the Plants ; Staging Flowers ; Chrysanthemums
for Market ; Soil for Potting ; Cutbacks ; Iusect-
pests and Diseases ; Dressing Blooms, &c. Some
lists of good incurveds, Japanese, and novelties,
are given, which may be useful to many readers,
and the lists are rendered valuable by the addition
of cultural information as to rooting, stopping,
number of shoots, buds to be taken, and feeding.
Altogether, Mr. Wells' new contribution to the
bibliography of the popular autumn flower is
worthy of perusal by those interested in the
subject.

The Principles of Agriculture. A Text-book

for Schools and Rural Societies. Edited by L.

H. Bailey (New York aud Loudon : Macmillans ;

pp. viii. to 300).
Agriculture, we are told in the preface to this
useful little book, is a business, not a science.
" But at every point a knowledge of scieuce aids
the business. It is on the science side that the
experimenter is able to help the farmer. On the
business side the farmer must rely upon himself, for
the person who is not a good business man cannot
be a good farmer, however much he may know of
science."

This remark is as applicable to horticulture as it
is to agriculture; indeed the whole book, barring
the section devoted to animals, is as suitable for the
gardener as it is for the farmer. The subject is

The Apiary.

Aroidiiit) Pollen in Sections. — With but few
exceptions, pollen in sectious has caused me some
loss each season, aud to a less extent sections con-
taining honey imperfectly fastened also, but never
before anything like this. A year earlier, under
the same management, there was practically no
loss from either cause. The season might, there-
fore, in some sense, be accounted to blame, but in
order to make a success of the busiuess at present,
one must be able and understand how to meet the
conditions of different seasons, and with such
knowledge I have no doubt the loss might have
been avoided. Admitting that I might not be able
to entirely avoid it if the same conditions were to
occur again this season, yet I consider what I
learned in regard to the matter was of more benefit
to me than what was lost, for I am a young man
yet, and expect to follow bee-keeping as a busiuess
in the future. I will first say that pollen iu this,
my immediate locality, is very abundant through
the eutire season, but as this is used mainly in
brood-rearing, the natural instinct of bees causes
them, when conditions are favourable, to store it
in the brood-chamber, where it will be easily
accessible for this purpose. But the plan I follow
with the swarms, either natural or artificial, is to
hive them in a hive with frames containing
"starters" only, when, if the supers from the
parent hives (in which work has already com-
menced) are put in a day or two, work will be
resumed in them at once, and a good queen will
usually lay in a large part of the comb below as
fast as it is built, so that most of the honey brought
in is necessarily for some time stored in the sec-
tions. I do not believe there is any method by
which as much honey cau be secured in sections,
and in a good season, or during a good flow ; a
swarm when first hived will not bring iu much
pollen for a few days. Last year the flow, except
during the first few days, was very scanty and irre-
gular, and as it was those swarms treated as
described that put pollen in the sections ; it will be
seen that this method should not be practised
during a poor How in a locality where pollen is
abundant, for when they caunot secure honey they
will carry in an excessive amount of pollen, aud
must of necessity store it in the sections. Now, I
have not much doubt that to give one or two frames
in each hive containing drawn comb, then waiting
until considerable comb was built' in them before
putting on the sections, would overcome the diffi-
culty, or if no frames of drawn-out combs were on
hand, a like number filled with foundation would
probably prove effective. There is so much pollen
here that colonies that did not swarm would
ofttimes carry it into the sectious, but years ago I
accidentally learned how to overcome this almost
entirely by changing the places of combs in the
hive. This was done to discourage swarming.
My practice is, at the approach of the swarming
season, to replace the two outside combs with those
that contain the most sealed brood, the two from
the outside which usually contain a large propor-
tion of what pollen there is in the hive, are theu
placed in the centre. If done at the right time this
has a tendency to check swarming, and I soon

Ai'Rir. 1, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

20

noticed sections over colonies so treated hardly
ever coutained any pollen. Such an abundance of
pollen right in the centre of the brood-nest may
possibly act as a check to their gathering much
more for a time. However this may be, there
would soon be plenty of room for them to store a
large amount again in the last two outside combs.
As to sections containing honey but slightly
fastened to the wood, I believe there are means by
which this can be largely avoided, no matter what
the character of the flow is, and even if only small
starters are used. But as this article is already so
long, I will have to wait to explain my experiments
in regard to this matter until some other time.
By Expert.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

March 28.— The usual fortnightly meeting of the com-
mittees of this Society was held at the Drill Hall, Wo I
minster, on Tuesday last, when, happily, the conditions of the
weather were exactly opposite to those thai prevailed a fort-
night ago. Rut the display was not so large as then, and this
may lie due to two causes -mistrust iu the weather, encou-
raged by recent experience; and to the near approach of
Eastertide. Yd the show "as n very pretty one, and the
Hall was fairly well furnished with exhibits, notwith-
standing that the work which devolved upon the various
committees was unusually light The Fruit and Vegetable
Committee, for instance, made one Award only, and this to
a variety of Tear named Winter Orange. Those who hive
not already cultivated this Pear are recommended to try it,
as the fruits will stew well.

The Floral Committee had many very charming groups to
inspect, some of which illustrated the beauty of choice varie
ties of flowering trees and shrubs; the extraordinary floral

wealth ol'the Azaleas mollis and sinensis; the delicious per-
fume of the Canterbury ami other Roses; the remarkable
attractiveness of the Boronias when well cultivated; and
lastly, the diversity obtainable in well-known species of
Ferns. Tin' Flora] Committee recommended a First-class
Certificate to Erica propendens, and an Award of Merit b>
Azaleas mollis x sinensis " I'.el-i de Bruin."

Messrs. Sander's perennial exhibitof the new Acnlyphas,
hispida, and Godsefhana, was conspicuous on this occasion.

The Narcissus Committee re< mended the Award of a

First class Certificate to a fine Trumpet Daffodil named
King Alfred.

In the afternoon the Rev. Professor llix-row delivered fl
lei dure upon some of the interesting plants at the exhibition.

Floral Committee.

Present : W, Marshall, Esq., Chairman ; and Messrs. Owen
Thomas, II. B Miy, R. Dean, J. II. Fitt, Wm. Howe, C. J.
Salter, Ceo. Gordon, E. H. Jenkins, J. D. Pawle, C. H.
Fielder, Chas. li. .Shea, J. W. Barr, Herbert J. Cutbnsh,
Edwin Beckett, E. T. Cook, II. J.Jones, Harry Turner, R.
Wilson Ker, George Paul, John Jennings and II. Selfe-
Leonard.

A very charming display of spring flowering species of
trees and shrubs in pots was made by Messrs. W. Paui tv
Son, Waltham Cross Nurseries, Herts. Single and double
flowered varieties of the Peach, from palest pink to deepest
rose colour; gave colour to the group, and freely-flowered
plants ofCytisus prsecox (purgans ■ albus) with its creamy
wreaths. Primus sinensis, tl. pi., Pyrus lloribunda Scheidec-
keri, ami others, were equally attractive, as was the
doubled-llowcrod French Cherry, with beautiful white
globular flowers, Choisya ternata, Cerasus Fortune!,
Deutzia parviflora, Exochorda grandiflora were also noticed
among these very valuable plants for pleasure-ground orna-
mentation. The purity of the flowers of Magnolia stellata
contrasted greatly with the rich and warm colours of
several new varieties of the Canna (Sliver Flora Medal).

A mass of the most delicate shade of pink colour was pr ■-
sented by an exhibit of Cerasus pseudo-cerasus from Messrs.
Jas. Vkitoii & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea. About
a score of these plants in pots were very pretty. The flowers
are double or semi-double, about H inch across, opening
deep pink, and fading to white. Messrs. Veitch & Sons also
showed a few abundantly-flowered plants of the feathery-
white Chionanthiis virginicus, Loropetalum chinense, and a
pretty variety of Azalea mollis named albicans. Also some
very pretty plants of Hippeastruin, the best being Adrastes,
Phclma, Runcina, and Hecla. A seedling plant was shown
with seven strong spikes and thirty-nine flowers and buds
(cultural commendation). Some well-flowered plants of
Dimorphotheca Eckloni were noticed.

FERNS.
Mr. II. 11. May, Hyson's Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton,
showed a group upon the floor, composed of Blechnums and
Lotnarias, there being as many as forty forms represented.
The individual plants were splendidly cultivated ones, and
the group served to illustrate the characteristics of the
varieties. L. gibba was represented by a line plant, and a
specimen of L. attenuata that had made a little stem was

very pretty. Beside the more decorative varieties, the group
included the diminutive L. alpina, and the New Zealand
species, L. fluviatilis (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal).

Ferns were again shown in considerable quantity by Messrs.
J. Hill & Son, Lower Edmonton. Some of the Gymno-
grammas, as G. peruviana, silver-coloured ; G. chrysophylla,
and G. argyrophylla, were conspicuous. Asplenium Hilll
and A. Belangeri are both useful Ferns. Pteris Wimsetti
was present in a large plant, and the distinct P. palmata as
smaller examples, Doodia cordata, Nephrodium lepidum,
I lyathea insignia, and many choice varieties of Adiantum.

AZALEAS.
Messrs. R. ,t G. CdTHBERT, of s. >nt hgatc, Middlesex, again
contributed the gayest group in the show. These A. ilea
mollis and sinensis hybrids am wonderful in the variety of
colour-tints they afford, and fortunately they possess the
characteristics of all Azaleas, viz., that of an abundantly free-
liowering habit. The deepest coloured one shown on Toesd lj
last was a variety of A. mollis named Alphonse Lavallee, a
warm red variety with shad.-s of orange, tint is :m undoubted
favourite. A. mollis :■; sinensis Hortulanus Witte is a vers
distinct variety, with yellow flowers. J. J. de Vink, Emilie
Liebig, Madaine Anthony Koster, Geo. Cuthbert, n ;o

Koster, In. Reichenhach, &c, all show the markings n,

then]. per petal conspicuously, w. E. Gladstone is a mag-
nificent variety, with warm orange. yellow flowers in grand
trasses— a capital companion foi tin' very popular Anthony
Kost.r (Silver Banksian Medal).

RusES.

Mr. Mount's Roses, from Canterbury, included magnificent
blooms of Mrs Sherman Crawford, Catherine Mermtt, Cap.
tain Hayward, Anna Olivier, Bridesmaid, The Bride, and
■ nmy others, both as blooms upon the ordinary exhibition
stands, ami as glorious sprays clad with fin healtl
summer-like roliage (Silver Flora Medal).

Mi. W. Ri ii.n, .lie. 'iiiius R i.id Nurseries, W.ilthaiu I 'loss,
i irgi exhibit of Roses, thai Included

numbei of vi I li s. For the present date ol thi

tin's,' were verj g I. The i iet i Mi-. Run i

forces with satisfai tory results (Silver Banksian Medal).

A pretty white flowered Polj mtha Rose named Th ilia v s .

shown by Messrs. I'i:im, i'im ,v Co., Ilraismek Nursery,

Colchester. Thi, perfectly pure-white Polyautha !;•
b much pn ed, the spraj ■. bi in charming win n out M

Frank Cant & Co. had also about four dozen bl n ; of Roses

in variety, all of them verj lino in colour.

MISCELLANEOUS.
Ma, IS. serrulata, and I;, megasti ma

were shown l'\ Mo-,, W. BaLCHIN & So I

Nurseries, Hassocks, Sussex. This extraordinary group of
plants, of varieties usually rather difficult of cultivation in

gardens, was a : , ,■, ,,,,. p ., raiatn espe-

cially, was magnificent, perhaps liner thanwc have hitherto
observed them evenf Has ksfSilvei Flora Medal).

Mr. Jn". Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Surrey, showed
about a dozen plants of In Rus elli, a nan w-leaved

variety with dull ret recurving foliage.

From Mr. John Ri i also shown plants of Vibur-

num macrocephalmn, a variet] with huge trusses of white
flowers, that somewhat resemble those of Hydrangea Nor-
teusia. It is o if the best Viburnums,

An unusual exhibit from amateurs was thai of a collection
of hardy and alpine plants shown by Pi-knell Parnei
Wroodlands, Streatham. A few Primulas, Including P
ticulata, P. verticillata were in flower, and the blur pj :
Irises Persica, &c, but there were also numerous Semper-
i ivunis, \-o. (Silver Flora Medal).

Cliveias wen' shown bj Messrs B. s. Williams & Son,
Upper Holloiray, London, N. Some-very large plants were
included in this exhibit, and flu best varieties were Marie
Reimer, Surprise. Prince of Orange, .oil Scarlet Gem (Vote "I
Thanks).

AW A i

Jm/.'i mnUis x si' . — An orange-yellow

il iweied variety, the upper petal marked with red or crimson.
The blooms are of moderate size, and form a nice, CO
truss (Award of Merit), from Messrs. R. & G. CUTHBERT,
Southgatc,

Erica propendens.— A species of Heath that has been o
cultivation for a number of years, and was figured in Bet. ,l/<w.,
t. '2140, from specimens cultivated in the nurseries of Messrs.
Loddiges & Sons. The flowers are rather small, terminal,
pendent, and umbellate. In colour, a shade of mauve-pink,
though they have been described as purple, or deep red. Tin
leaves are very short, ciliate, and are produced four in a whorl.
The plant rarely exceeds 1 foot in height. Those shown by
Messrs. .1.1-, Vim n & Son,, Royal Exotic Nursery. Chelsea,
were exceptionally well-flowered, and were greatly admired
(First-class Certificate).

Narcissus Committee.
: Reis. E. S. Bourn? (Chairman), G. II. Engleheart,
Messrs. "'. R. Scrase-Dickens (Secretary), J. Walker, A.
Kingsmill, R. Sydenham, P. R. Barr, Miss Willmott, and

others.

Scarcely any flowers from the open ground were in
evidence, the past week's severe weather having emphasized
the general backwardness of the spring as regards Narcissi. '

Mr. R, O. Backhouse, Sutton Court, Hereford, received
the committee's thanks for an interesting hybrid between N.
cyclamineus and N. obvallaris.

The Rev. G. II. Enolehears wis thanked for a gathering

of good hardy hybrids between N. Tazetta and N. posticus,
and also showed some attractive seedling Trumpets.

Messrs. Baku & Sons were awarded a Silver Flora Medal
for an exceedingly fine group of pot-Narcissi, the plants
dwari ami profusely flowered, notably the new Ajax Victoria

Messrs. T. 3. Win, received a Vote of Thanks for a small
stand of Narcissi in pots.

AWARDS.

.':> Alfred.- A remarkably tine AjaS was sent
from Mr. Kendall, Newt,,,, Poppleford, Ottery St. Mary
Devon This flower, named King Alfred, appears to be the
outcome or a cross between X. Emperor and maximus The

large bloom of rich uniform gold, and thick substance

recalls the features of boll, parents, as do the tall stems and'

si ml glaucous foliage (First-elass Certificate).

Orchid Committee.
!: Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the chair; and .Me ,,
Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), R. Brooman-Wliite, II. Ilallantine,
N. C. Cookson, A. H. Smeo, J. Gabriel, A. Outram, H. J.
Chapman, W. II. SToung, F. .1. Thome, E. Hill, \y. h. White,
.1. Jaques, II. T. Pitt, W. II. Protheroe, -l. Oilman, .1. <.\
Fowler, F. Mason, T. II. Haywood, and S. Courtauld.

Orchids wen ten fewer than on lliel.ist two occasions.

sir Trevor Lawrenoe, Hart., Burford (gr., Mr. W, H.
White), staged a pretty group of excellent ly.grown rare
ens.foi which a Silver Banksian Medal was awarded.
The group contained Odontoglossum Halli, with sixteen
flowers: Iwo grand dark forms of i >. trinmphans, the new

'" ■'" d Epidendnrm x xantho-radicans, Cattleya Law-

renceana, with sixteen flowers; C. ;■; bawre-Mossia?;
Cypripedium Stonei, will, a fine spit"; c. Rothschildianumi
with two spikes of line flowers, and others.

II. T. Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill (gr., Mr. Thur-

g 1), tageda mall group, including the handsome Odonto-

iiin - Wilckeanum "Primate," with a noble spike

(Cultural Commendation); a singular hybrid of II

And. Tsoni, mum class, with canary-yellow flowers, named

(>. x flaveolum ; 0. < I In rmutn fulvidum ; varieties of

1 '■ Aiiili rsoiii.niuiu, Epidendmm Wallisii, Dendrobitun x
splendidissimum grandiflorum, and other Dendrobes ; Onci-
dium sareodes, &c, the centre being occupied by a splendid
plan! of tl, .• still rare Eulophiella Elisabeths, with thru' line
spikes (Bronze Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Hi i ii Low A Co., Rush Hill Park, staged an

-up, in which were several remarkable varieties of

Cattleya Trialini. two white forms with pink tinge on the

lip being exceptionally good. Also in the roup were very
line Cypripedium Mastersianum, 0. T, W. Bond, C.
Smithi, C. x Winnianum, C. X Godsefflanum, C. x Calypso,
I 'iinlroi, mm x Cheltenhamensis ; some very handsome forms
of i idontoglossum crispum, &c.
Norman C. Cookson, Esq., ' lakwoo I, Wylam (gr., .Mr. Wm.

Murray), showed I plants ol in, Dendrobhun Cybele,

Oakwood var., nobile Burfordiense x Findlayanum, all di
similar. The nearest of the type was white tipped with rose,
and with chocolate purple eye. No. 1 h id larger flowers th m
iheivpc, the white flowers tipped with carmine-rose, the
disc and the lip orange with distinct maroon eye. No. 2 was
similar, but with the dark eye nearly suppressed ; and No. :j
was in colour like the light-coloured original form, but much
I irger.

In-: r. Crawshay, EsM,, Roseiieid, Sevenoaks (gr., Mr. s.

Cooke), showed Odontoglossum x Andcrsoiiianitin splendidly

and with three flower-spike : a very handsome white

variety of 0. crispum, and 0. :■: mulus, Crawshay's variety.

with yellow H iwers, heavily blotched with el late-brown ;

the lip nearly while.

Messrs. Linden, 1'Horticulture Internationale, Pare Leo-
pold, Brussels, showed Odontoglossum Wilckeannm tigrinum,
a very handsomely-marked variety; O. x eirrlio-Halli, and
Cypripedium x Paulii supermini (lloxalb x Chantini
si in rbum).

T. B. Haywood, Esq., Woodhatch Lodge. Reigate (gr., Mr.
Salter), showed several tonus of his line strain of Dend robin in
x splendidissimum.

W. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, stone. Stafford (gr.,
Mr. Stevens), showed Odontoglossum - Wilckeanum Wal-
tonense, a very handsome yellow form, richly blotched with
purplish-brown; O. Halli nigrum, with handsome ftowers, in
which the greater part of the sepals ami petals are covered
with nearly black markings, the lip being large and white,
with but two or three small brown spots.

Frau Ida Brandt, Zurich, sent Ccelogyne Sanders?, a
pretty species of the C. Cumingi class ; Phalienopsis Aphro-
dite, and file rare oncidiuni Warscewiczii.

W. i Walker, Esq., Winchmore Hill (gr., Mr. Geo.
Cragg), sent Eriopsis rutidobulbum, with three line spikes,
and a good Cypripedium hirsutissimum.

E. heQ. Quincev, Esq., Chislehurst (gr , Mr. <:. B. Lees),
showed a fine form of Cattleya Trianad.

loo-, Statter, Esq., Whitefield, Manchester (gr., Mr.

Johnson), showed Cypripedium insigne Statterte, oi f the

finest of the C. i. Sanders class, with rich dark yellow,
unspotted flowers, with tine white upper portion to the dorsal
. the darkest of the yellow C. insigne.
Sir W.ir. Marriott, Down House, Blandfonl (gr., Mr.
Denny), showed a handsome form of Lalio- Cattleya x
Latona.

AWARDS.

Tjdio-Caltleyt) x Myra Etoile <l'0r (A Triaiuei var. x /,.
/'".,). from M..iiiis H\i; Leyskn, Ghent (gr., Mr. Coen),

a very handsoi lear yellow flower, of similar habit and

general appena -■ 0 ! C. x Ernesti "Princess Olga,"

208

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 1, 1899.

illustrated in the present volume of the Gardeners' Chronicle,

p. 149 (First-class Certificate).

Odontoglossum X excellent ear. nobUior, from M. Jules Hyk
Leysen, Ghent. A fine form, with bright yellow flowers,
handsomely blotched with red-brown. Lin white, with yel-
low crest, and some red -brown spots. The spike' bore four-
teen fine flowers (Award of Merit).

Caltleya Triancci Amesiana, from Messrs. Hi'ch Low & Co.,
Bush Hill Park. A very beautiful pure white variety, the
hroad labeluim being of a clear rose-pink in the fronl portion
(Award of Merit).

Dendrobium X Euterpe (Nobile X Wardianuin) from Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart. Flowers of the same white and
rose-purple shades as D. Wardianum, but changed in form in
the direction ofD. nobile. The finely-grown plant bore a
flowering growth between three and four feet in height
(Award of Merit).

DendrobiMtn catutlicnlatum from J. Sparkes, Esq., Heath-
side. Ewhurst (gr., Mr. Smith). A fine plant with three
spikes of white and rose-coloured flowers was shown (Botanical
Certificate).

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present.: Philip Crowley, Esq. (Chairman); and Messrs.
W. Wilks, Jos. Cheal, Jas. H. Veitch, A. F. Barron, A. H.
Pearson, Alex. Dean, S. Mortimer, J. W. Bates, Geo. Wythes,
H. Balderson, F. Q. Lane, Jas. Smith, J. Willard, and Robt.
Fife.

Messrs. Walker Bros., 36, Basinghall Street, EC, showed
a few black Grapes that had been imported from S. Africa.
These were satisfactory, though not perfectly ripe.

A seedling Apple named Drought's Favourite was shown
by Messrs. R. Hartland & Son, Lough Nurseries, Cork.
It may be a good Apple, but was a little past its best. Mr.
A. J. Thomas, Rodmersham, Sittingbourne, showed an Apple
named Diamond Jubilee.

From the Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chis-
wick were shown twenty-eight varieties of Onions, six or
eight bulbs of each. Mr. Wright reported that such bulbs
that had not been transplanted kept only until the end of
February. Those shown were nice firm, but small bulbs,
that would seemingly keep for some time to come.

AWARDS.
Pear Winter Orange.— The stewing Pear, Winter Orange,
was again shown by Mr. R. C. Notcut, Woodbridge, Suffolk.
It has been grown in certain localities for a number of years,
but at the same time is not. generally knowu. It is of
medium size, short, and but little pyriform in shape. The
eye is an open one, and is situate in a shallow basin. The
variety is a first-class stewing Pear (Award of Merit).

D. Rolfe (Award of Merit), D. Apollo, D. Sybil (First-class
Certificate), D. nobile Storei, D. Juno (First-class Certifi-
cate), D. Clio (First-class Certificate), D. Venus, and Cypri-
pedium insigne Luciana (First-class Certificate).

John Leemann, Esq., West Bank House, Heaton Mersey,
showed Odontoglossum Andersonianum, O. crispum Mrs.
John Leemann (Award of Merit), Cattleya Triana>i var.
delicata (Award of Merit), C. Louis Chaton, Dendrobium
nobile Amesite (First-class Ceititicate), D. Ainsworthi inter-
textum, D. Apollo, Cypripedium Germinyanum violaceum,
anil (.'. Dayanum ; also a group, for which lie was awarded a
Silver Medal.

D. P. Rapt-art, Esq., Liscard, showed Dendrobium Venus
selwoodense (First-class Certificate).

Messrs. Linden & Co., Brussels, showed Odontoglossum
intermedium Queen Victoria (Award of Merit), 0. cirrosum
Halli (Award of Merit}, Mesospinidium vulcanicum grandi-
florum, Odontoglossum sceptrum superbum, O. luteo-pur-
pureum splendens (Award of Merit), O. Wilckeanum tigrinum
(First-class Certificate), O. hybridnm Golden Queen (Award
of Merit), 0. Ruckeri tigrinum (First-class Certificate), 0.
Andersoni pioturatum (Award of Merit).

©bituan?.

Geo. Buchanan Wollaston.— On the 26th

inst., at Bishops Well, Chislehurst, the death of
Mr. George Buchanan Wollastou has deprived the
lovers of British Ferns of one of the few remaining
specialists who have done so much by assiduous
hunting and careful study to form the grand col-
lections now existing. For some time his advanced
age (eighty-four) and failing health have removed
him from among the active members of the cult,
but his work in the past has stamped him as first
among the connoisseurs and standard authorities,
while his special finds among the shield Ferns have
immortalised his memory. Nor did Ferns alone
obtain his interest, for his garden was a marvellous
museum of varietal forms of trees, shrubs, flowers,
and even weeds. His generosity aud kindliness
endeared him to all who knew him.

TORaUAY & DISTRICT GARDENERS'
ASSOCIATION.

M na ii 22.— Individual competitors were not bo numerous
as could be wished, and the competition in the open classes
was therefore somewhat restricted ; but there was no lack or
merit. Table decorations again formed an attractive feature,
but, as usual, the awards did not give undivided satisfaction.

Azaleas seemed to Ik everywhere, all covered with bl i.

Narcissi, Cyclamens, Tulips, Cinerarias, Hyacinths, Freesias,
Primulas, Carnations, were all splendidly represented. A
novelty for spring shows were the fine collections of vegetables,
.New Potatos, Runner Beans, and such like. Among the
honorary exhibitors, Mr. J. SneloroVe, was again to
the front with a charming collection of plants and blooms.
Flowering shrubs at the back towered over rare Orchids, and
all the striking colours of the many spring flowers. Miss
Lavers, in addition to Orchids, sent a number of Apples and
Pears. Curtis, Sanford & Co. had Hoses on their stand
from the Devon Rosary ; W. B, Smale's collection was hardly
s.i striking as usual, but it included a wide variety of choice
spring blooms. From Messrs. V pitch, of Exeter, came the
usual artistic display, including many of the latest novelties ;
Bt'RRiDOE & Son, W. Allward, Horn A Suns, T. s. Ware of
Tottenham, and J. Heath (Violets and Polyanthus) added
much to the attractiveness of the exhibition by their displays.
Mrs. Wilson had an interesting exhibit in the shape of
Papyrus ant.iquornm. Included in the South Devon fruit-
farm collection were Daffodils, New Violets, and Roses grown
under Tines. Western Morning News.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

March 23.— On the occasion of the meeting held at the
Manchester Coal Ex-change on the above date, there were
present Messrs. G. Shorland Ball (in the chair), G. W. Law-
Schofleld, John Leemann, J. Cypher, R. Johnson, and
T. Mills (Hon. Sec.).

G. Shorland Ball, Esq., Wilmslow, showed Dendrobium
rubens var. grandiflorum (First-class Certificate), D. nobile
Amesia- (First-class Certificate), D. Sehneiderianum (First-
class Certificate), D. splendidissimum Leeanum (Award of
Merit), D. Sybil (First-class Certificate), D. Juno (First-class
Certificate), Codogyne cristata alba (First-class Certificate),
and Odontoglossum crispum (Award of Merit).

Teos. Statter, Esq., Whitetield, showed Dendrobium splen-
didissimum illustre (First-class Certificate), D. s., Thompson's
var. (First-class Certificate), D. s. Leeanum (Award of Merit),

Cattleyas and Dendrobiums Resting: Veritas.
A simple method of telling when the resting
season has arrived in the ordinary course, is to
note when the last growth of all the plants of a
species is completed, and no more young growth
is coining from the base. Dendrobiums com-
prise both evergreen aud deciduous species, the
last-named giviug an additional indication that
the resting seasou has arrived by the withering
of their leaves. Such species requires a per-
fectly dry and cool resting season. The Catt-
leyas and evergreen Dendrobiums, when at rest,
also require a lower temperature than when
growing, aud a considerably reduced supply of
water to the roots.

Ccelogyne cristata : A Subscriber. The shrivel-
ling of the bulbs seems to indicate that the plant
has lately been given an insuffieieut supply of water
at the roots. From now onward, until the new
growths are completed, a very liberal supply of
rain-water should be given, indeed, if in well-
drained pot, it is scarcely possible to give too
much.

Cucumbers Deformed, and Brown in Colour :
Tiro Blades. The plants are probably a prey to
eelworms at the roots, introduced with the soil.
Thisis always to be feared where it is not the
practice to keep loam, &c, in neat stacks with
sides smooth, and kept free from all herbage for
two years. Can you not send specimens of
roots ?

Donations. — F. Gibson, 3s. ; and W. Gibbins,
Is. till., sent in postal orders for insertion of
Gardening Appointments. These sums have been
forwarded to the Secretary of the Royal
Gardeners' Orphan Fund, as we make no charge
for these notices.

Names of Fruits : ,/. Phillips. Apple : Coe's
Golden Drop.—/. E. 1, Biamley's Seedling;
2, not known ; 3, Lane's Prince Albert ; 4,
Besspool ? ; 5, Redwiuter Ueinette ; 0, Minchall
Crab.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — J. JI. Wilkes, The Ivy is
Emerald Gem, so far as can be ascertained from
leaves only. — /. D. Stow. The raceme of flowers
is Epidendrum Stamfordiauum ; the other small
flower, so far as we can judge in its imperfect
state, and without the pollinia, is Maxillaria
crassifolia. The flowers are produced singly on
(lie stems, lint with several rising from the base
of the growth. A portion of the growth and
fresh flowers would render identification more
certain. — W. T. Leucoium veruum. — A. M.

1, Leucostegia (Davallia immersa) ; 2, Davallia
Tyermani ; 3, Sanchezia nobilis ; 4, Hoffmanuia
Ghiesbrechti ; 5, Acalypha marginata ; li, Pel-
lionea pulchra. — J. Barnett. Ornithogalum (Al-
lium) neapolitauum. — ./. M. Lenton. 1, Abutilou
Sellowianum marmoratum ; 2, Abutilon Darwini
variegatum ; 3, Saxifraga sarmentosa : 4, Ne-
phrolepis tuberosa ; 5, Selaginella Wildeuovii ;
0, Carex variegata. — E. W. A very fine Odon-
toolossuui triumphaus, both in form and colour.
— W. M. The cut leaf is known in gardens as
Aralia filicifolia ; the other as Aralia Guilfoylei.
The Camellia resembles " Marchioness of Exeter."
A. E. M. The Fern seems to be the variety we
figured as Adiantum t. Farleyense var. alcicome;

2, Oplismeuus Burmanii variegatus ; 3, Begonia
Iugrami. The Palm with flower is Chamcerops
humilis ; G, Dracaena, but impossible to say which
from the specimen sent.

Orchid Leaves, Unhealthy : Pest. The surface
is covered with a whitish mould, which you may
destroy by using flowers-of-sulphur in a dry
state, or sulphide of potassium, at the rate of
half-an-ounce dissolved in 1 gallon of rain-water.
Your method of cultivation leaves apparently
something be desired.
Pinching the Points of the Side-shoots of
Young Vines : Killiecrankie. The laterals that
are inteuded to form the future fruitingspurs,
which should occur on the rods at lj to 1^ foot
apart, all others being rubbed off early, should be
stopped at a distance from the rod of Ifj to 2 feet,
accordingly as the space between the rods is
small or great. If the laterals at the upper
extremity of a cane are stronger than the rest,
begin with these, and do not stop the leading
point of the rod — at least not till growth is
getting to an end. Having stopped a lateral
once, stop the resulting shoot at one bud from
the point of origin, and so on as long as growth
continues, a moderate number of fully-developed
leaves being of greater value than many small
ones ; moreover, crowding is averted.
Base: A. E. il. The centre of the Pose has
grown out as a shoot. It is not uncommon, and
is due to something stimulating growth at a time
when normally it should be at rest. Why it
should have done so we cannot tell. It is not
likely to repeat the performance.
Violets in Frames: C. Brcum. We thank you
for the kind expression of feeling towards as.
The blooms were very fine iudeed, and we still
hope that when you can find the time to do so,
you will describe your methods, which could not
tail to be of use to the younger members of the
craft.
Wireworms in Vine and Peach Borders :
Anxious, To "clear" the borders is probably
beyond possibility without inflicting injury on
the plants, and perhaps killing them. They
were, doubtless, introduced with the loam, aud
being feeders on the roots of grasses aud herbage
generally, there is the likeliboodof their dying of
starvation if no plants are grown ou the border,
and weeds are exterminated. You might take
advantage of their liking for the roots of Lettuces,
aud try to trap them by sowing or planting a
number of rows, pulling up the plants intact
when ready for use, and burning the roots aud
soil attached. The Mustard plant, when sown
on laud infested with wireworm, is said to drive
them away. Try it, for it will not impoverish
the ground, and may do good.

Communications Received. — H. E , Mentone.— D. B. N. —
J. B.— I). T. F. — E. J. H— R. JI. ('. J— R. Mason. -R. D.
— D. T. F.-C. T. D.-H. E.-C J. F. -C. W. D.-S. A.--
R. P. B.— A. R.— A. T. (next week).

DIED. — On March 23, at the residence of nel-
son James, Sarah, widow of Samuel Hudson,
age 95 years.

(For Markets and Weather, see p. x.)

ArRiL 8, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

209

THE

(Sardenm' dfltrjjiticlc

No. 641.— SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 1899.

CROSS-BREEDING.

A PAPER by Messrs. Walter T. Swingle
-'-*- and Herbert J. Webber, on " Hybrids
and their Utilisation in Plant Breeding," Year-
book of the Department of Agriculture for 1897
(U.S.A.), furnishes a general summary of ob-
servations on the peculiarities of hybrid plants,
and gives important suggestions for taking
practical advantages of them.

After alluding to the fact that in consequence
of the great diversity of climates and soils in
the United States, numerous varieties suitable
to each, respectively, must be raised, since a
good vegetable or fruit in Florida may be quite
unsuited for cultivation at New York — and in
some degree the same rule would apply to the
British Isles ; the authors proceed to discuss
what plants can be hybridised or crossed.
Nothing but general rules can be at present
held, as there is an extraordinary amount of
"capriciousness," so to say, in plants, so that
one can never foresee what plants can be
hybridised, and what will refuse to be crossed
with any advantage.

The first rule is, that the less there is of
affinity the less chance there is of crossing, and
by affinity is meant the points of agreement
between two plants taken in their totality, so
that the degree of probability of union decreases
from races and varieties to species, genera and
families, or natural orders.

As examples of capriciousness, it may be
observed that while naturally self-fertilising
[plants produce a far greater abundance of seed
in the wild state than plants with flowers
especially adapted for inter-crossing, it may
happen that a species is self-impotent, but
quite fertile with another and ncarh related
species.

Again, though the species of the same genus
can generally be hybridised, some refuse to be
crossed. Thus, Nicotiana acuminata could not
be crossed with any one of eight other species
(Glaertner). Again, reciprocal crosses can gene-
rally be made ; but while Mirabilis Jalapa x
M, lorigifolia was fertile, the reverse cross
proved to be sterile. Even very closely-
related species may sometimes refuse abso-
lutely to lie crossed. Thus was it with Cucur-
bita Pepo and C. maxima (Bailey and Pammel).
On the contrary, Mr. Burbank raised a suc-
cessful bigener between the Strawberry and
Raspberry,

Of different families, Gladiolus blandus was
crossed with a Hippeastrum, and yielded four
plants ; and Digitalis ambigua x a Gloxinia,
bore several seeds.

As a practical result from usually self-sterile
seedless plants, the fact may be mentioned that
they often prove to be fertile when pollinated
by other species ; as in the case with some seed-
less Oranges, Pine-apples [Passion-flowers], &c.
Sterility may not be without its advantages,
for besides giving rise to seedless fruits, the
vegetative system may be greatly enhanced in
various ways : in some, as Walnuts, supplying

valuable timber ; in others, useful herbage ; or
again, as stocks for grafting.

The characters of the hybrid are usually inter-
mediate between those of the parents; but it
is uever absolutely so, as all degrees may appear
between the one parent and the other. Thus, of
Datura Metel x I). Meteloides, of the second
generation, there were forty two plants, of which
twelve resembled the mother, two the father, and
twenty -eight were intermediate in various degrees.
If the progeny resemble one or other of the
parents very closely, or (to all appearances) entirely,
they have been called "false hybrids." This was
what M. Millardet found with regard to the results
of crossing the European Strawberry, Fragaria vesca,
with the American species. Some account of his
experiments have already been given in the
Gardeners' Chronicle (Nov. 10, 1894, p. 568).

A great difference exists between the first anil
later generations of hybrids, the rule being that
second and subsequent ones are far more variable,
and "the variability is the greater the more com-
pletely it was wanting in the first generation ; "
i.e., the result of crossing more or less widely
distant species.

The authors classify under six headings various
hybrids according to their degrees of intermediate
features as well as sterility, in the first generation
and in others, concluding with " false hybrids."

They then discuss atavistic and new characters
exhibited by hybrids. They mention a striking

instance recorded by Saunders, who says: "In

a cross between Red Fife, male, and an Indian
Wheat known as Spiti Valley, female, both beard-
less, several distinctly bearded sorts were produced
in the second generation." As ancient Wheats, as
the Egyptian, are bearded, such a result as the
above appears to be an atavistic or reversionary
character. Willi regard to new characters appeal-
ing, they give photographic illustrations of the two
parents and the hybrid offspring of Raspberry x
Blackberry. In none are the leaflets dissected, but a
leaf of a subsequent by lirid illustrated is supra-decom-
pound. Ten photographs of the canes of a second
generation of the same give as many differences.

One section is devoted to graft hybrids, in
which the following case is mentioned, besides
the Rosa Devouiensis grafted on a Banksiau Hose,
described in An. ami /'/., &c, i. 396; Gardeners'
Chronicle, July 21, lSbO, p. 672. Flower-shoots
of the tender Kohlrabi were grafted on a hardy
Cabbage. The seeds resulting from self-fertilisa-
tion yielded plants which had swollen stems useful
for forage, were very hardy, and yielded from four
to five times as much fodder as other sorts of Cab-
bages able to stand the same degree of cold. This
rcsuil is very suggestive, and it is to be hoped
more experiments will be tried in this direction.

With regard to some special features obtained
by hybridisation, the authors observe that it often
happens that the progeuy of very different species
are unusually vigorous. Mr. Burbidge records
this fact with regard to Mr. Dominy's hybrid and
bigeneric Orchids compared with the parent plants.
As other examples, Burbank's hybrid betweeu the
English Walnut, Juglans regis, and J. californica,
may lie mentioned. " It possesses extraordinary
vigour of growth, which may render it of exceptional
value as a lumber and ornamental tree, the leaves
being from two feet to a full yard in length. The
wood is very compact, witli a lustrous silky grain,
taking a beautiful polish ; the annual layers of
growth beiug an iuch or more in thickness, the
effect is unique."

The Raspberry-blackberry hybrid, "Princess,"
produced by crossing the Western Dewberry (Rubus
ursinus) with the Siberian Raspberry (R. cratsegi-
folius) is also an interesting case. Burbank says
of it : — "It is remarkable that the hybrid should
riptvi its fruit several weeks before either of its
parents, and excel them much in productiveness
and size of fruit, though retaining the general
appearauce and combined flavours of both."

The authors finally discuss the benefits of crossing

in producing increased vigour and fertility as well
as hardier sorts, and sorts suited for the warmer
climates of the southern States. With reference to
the last, they meution the result of crossing the
Chinese Sand Pear (Pyrus sinensis) with the
European Pear. "This cross has revolutionised
Pear culture in the southern part of the U. S.,
having extended the range of profitable commercial
Pears growing hundreds of miles southward. From
Virginia and southward to the Orange region of
Florida, these two varieties (the Kieffer and Le
Conte) have monopolised the Pear-growers' atten-
tion ; in fact, they have made the Southern Pear
culture."

The paper concludes with remarks on breeding
better stocks. Hybrids of unusual vigour, even
though absolutely sterile, may prove of great value
for stocks if they are capable of being propagated
vegetatively, as for example, has proved to be
successful with Vines on the Continent. George
Jit nslow.

EUCALYPTI.

I have been much interested in the many useful
articles which are at the present season appearing
in your columns relating to these most important
trees. From a residence of some years in the
'Irausvaal, where it is being extensively planted,
I have had opportunities of observing its suitability
as an exotic timber-tree there, and with your per-
mission, perhaps a short statement of the results of
these observations may not be unacceptable to
your readers. Soon after the Boer occupation of
the Transvaal, it would appear that they began
to plant a few of these trees around their home-
steads, no doubt their extreme rapidity of growth
being the recommendation ; the consequence has
been, that now that gold-mining is the staple
industry of the country, and as there is a great
want of timber for mining purposes, many com-
panies have turned their attention to tree-planting
in order to supply this want, the result, has been
that pretty extensive plantations have been made
in the neighbourhood of the great mining com-
panies. Several of the principal of these plantations,
in the neighbourhood of Johannesburg and Pretoria,
I have had the privilege of examiuiug. The
" Bruamfontein Plantation," extending to about
1000 acres, also " Orange Grove," and "Boysum,"
all planted within the last twelve years, are to the
eye of an English arborist marvels of success.
Although only planted during the time stated,
when I visited them two and a half years ago, the
trees ran from 15 to 40 feet high, the older portions
supplying good pit wood, girthing from 12 to 18
inches, and from 20 to 25 feet long ; these weie
merely thinnings.

The predominant species planted was E. Glo
bulus, the Blue-gum ; E. viminalis, resinifera,
robusta, and di versicolor have also been tried.
However, the two varieties which appear to do
best are Globulus and viminalis, each attaining
great size in a few years. For hardiness I think
vimiualis is preferable, and from information I
received its timber is tougher aud more durable.
The very limited experience on this point, how-
ever, may be misleading, as every one knows,
though elasticity and durability of timber depends
a very great deal upon the soil in wdiich it is grown,
the same variety grown under different conditions
as to soil and situation may give very differeut
results ; one thing I specially observed, however
was that viminalis seemed to be much hardier than
Globulus. In the winter of 1894 we had fre-
quently from 15' to 20° of frost, the young shoots
of Globulus were pretty severely cut, while vimi-
nalis growing beside it was not touched ; robusta
also appeared to enjoy immunity. The planta-
tions referred to are all situated on elevations,
varying from 4500 to tiOOO feet above sea-level,
and the temperature in winter is often as low as
10° F. The soil is generally a red loam, rather
poor, very much impregnated with iron, except
along the banks of streams and vlais or damp

210

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April S, 1899.

hollows, where the soil is darker and more alluvial ;
the whole, however, is more or less ferruginous,
such being apparently thoroughly suited to the
Eucalyptus. As an example of the enormous
growth of this genus in the Transvaal, I may
mention that on visiting Linhaard's Vlai, about
'20 miles west of Johannesburg, my attention was
drawn by the manager of the estate, Mr. Forbes,
to a row of Eucalyptus on the boundary of the
homestead, which he reported as being from 20 to
'25 years old. I roughly measured two of the
largest ; one was 15 feet in circumference 5 feet
from the ground, with a clear stem of about 55 feet
without a branch ; the full height of the tree would
be about 80 feet ; the other was 13 feet in girth,
with a similar stem and height. Both seemed to be
E. Globulus, but from the height of the branches
it was difficult to identify them.

From these observations I hold a very strong
opinion that the hardier varieties such as I have
indicated might be planted with excellent results
iu several situations in the British Isles, such as
in the south-west of England and the south and
west of Ireland ; and even in certain parts of the
west of Scotland, I believe, gratifying results
might be attained. One thing, however, must be
kept in view— that they should not be planted in
low sheltered localities, where they would be long
in ripening the young shoots, or where there is a
liability to hoar frosts. Comparatively high and
exposed situations should always be selected.
Again, I am convinced that they should not be used
in mixed plantations, because by their rapidity of
growth they would early overtop any other variety,
and be therefore exposed to high winds, which
would destroy the young upper shoots.

Before closing, I may just say that there are
other trees growu in South Africa which I have an
idea might be with advantage tried in certain
situations iu this country. I refer to two or three
varieties of the Acacia, viz., Acacia dealbata (the
Silver Wattle), A. mollisima (Black Wattle), and
A. melanoxylou (Black-wood) ; the timber of each
of these are excellent, and the bark of the two first
mentioned are most valuable for tanning. In the
Transvaal they aie quite as hardy as the Euca-
lyptus, although more slow growing. I hope
some one may take this hint, and give them a trial
under similar conditions as Eucalyptus.

In a future communication I will give a few-
notes of my observations on the rearing and plant
ing of Eucalyptus. Chas. S. France, 7, Belmont
/'lac , Ab( rdet a.

SPONTANEOUS HYBEIDS OP
HARDY PLANTS.

(Continued from p. 165.)
Hybrids of Polemonium are interesting as afford-
ing the most complete example of inversion of species
I have seen in perennials. Out of about seven
kinds which I have grown, five seem quite ready to
make hybrids, the exceptions are P. pauciflorum,
an annual with a very distinct Mower, which I have
only once grown, aud P. confertum, a most unkind
and capricious plant, which I have both obtained
from nurseries and raised from seed collected in
Colorado, but never can keep for more than a year or
two. It has rarely flowered in my garden, but when
it, has, it has been in March or April, long before any
other of the 'genus was in flower. J', coarnleum,
including its variety, miscalled in gardens P.
Hiohardsoni, as well as V. reptans, 1'. ilavum,
P. humile, and P. himalayanum, all make hybrids
with one another, which are invariably quite
barren. The iuversion mentioned above is made
by I', flavum x P. coeruleum, the seed parent
P. Ilavum, as far as flower and leaves go, exactly
reproduces the pollen parent, but the habit is less
upright, and the flowering period much prolonged ;
the white-flowered and the blue-flowered are pro-
duced indifferently, and their constitution is very
robust, as the plant may be cut to pieces and
increased without trouble indefinitely. There is
only oue other hybrid in the genus, which, as a

garden plant, is superior to either parent. This is
P. Richardsoni (I write the name under protest, as
it is certainly not Graham's plant figured in the
Botanical Magazine, tab. 2S00) x P. humile; this
hybrid has the Mowers of the seed parent (which is
probably a variety of P. coeruleum) anil the habit
and stature of P. humile. Other hybrids iu the
genus present intermediate characters, but do not
call for special notice.

Fhlox has produced here several rather mys-
terious hybrids, I call them mysterious, because
the most distinct has always been labelled in Kew
Gardens as P. Stellaria, which it much resembles ;
however, two trustworthy gardeners have assured
me that they raised it independently of one another
from seed of P. subulata, before P. Stellaria had
ever been in their gardens. I have never seen a
seedling from the type P. Stellaria, which I keep
with difficulty through wet winters, but this sup-
posed hybrid, which I named G. F. Wilson, makes
seedlings sparingly, some of which nearly repro-
duce the seed-parent ; others seem to be crossed

Pic. 70.- coRVLOP rs spicata : colour of the flowers-

PALIS VCI.I.oW. (sf.e r. 211.)

with P. amcena, others are nearer the type of P.
subulata. Phlox G. F. Wilson has an exact por-
trait, made seventy years ago, in Lodrliges' Cabinet,
t. 172'2, and is called there P. procumbens. The P.
procumbens of Sweet's English Flower Garden,
t. 7 — also more than half a century old — is different.
Both these portraits are noticed under P. procum-
bens in Asa Gray's Flora of North America. It is
there said that they have never been matched by
wild plants, and P. procumbens is placed by Asa
Gray under 1*. subulata. This is the only set of
hybrids I have ever seen in Phlox.

To speak of spontaneous hybrids of Primula, the
European alpines of the Auricula group succeed
but moderately out of doors in Edge garden, the
wet and changeable wiuters allow them little rest,
and they start into growth too early to escape
injury from spring frosts when in flower. A good
many are growu in cold frames, aud the produce of
their seed shows that they cross freely, but these
natural hybrids of Alpine Primroses having been
made a special study, are mostly well understood
by botanists. One thing I can say, that seed saved
in these frames either from the wild yellow F.
Auricula or the purple P. viscosa, produces a great
variety of what are known as "border Auriculas,"

and these hybrids are fertile aud produce an ever-
varying race.

The hardy species of Himalayan Primroses are
grown out of doors at Edge in abundance. P. rosea
aud P. denticulata flower simultaneously ; but I
only once saw a manifest hybrid between them — two
or three plants were produced the same season, in
which the colour of the flower and the characters
were intermediate between the two. The plants
were vigorous enough, but were so far from orna-
mental, that no attempt was made to perpetuate
them. Primula scotica and P. farinosa have more
than once matle neat little hybrids, but they were
not persistent, and neither of these species come up
here from self-sown seed. C. Wolley Bod, Malpas,
Cheshire.

(To be continued.)

The Fernery.

FERN PROPAGATION BY APOSPOEY.

At the meeting of the Liuneau Society on Thurs-
day, February 2, Dr. F. W. Stausfield, of Reading,
read an interesting paper on a case of induced
apospory in Athyrium ulix-foemina, which should
be of interest to cultivators of Ferns. So far, the
instances noted have been upon varieties found
wild, or which have originated under culture with
the aposporous features manifest at once to expe-
rienced eyes, but in this particular case of A. f. -f.
uuco-glomeratum we have a more beautiful Fern,
which for many years has shown no sign of the
phenomenon, does not present in its fronds those
peculiar attenuations which are usually correlated
with it, and has only become aposporous after some
eighteen mouths of close culture of detached pieces
of the frond.

The whole case is remarkable from the fact that
a normally deciduous species, without being sub-
jected to warm treatment at all, was persistently
grown for the time named, and that the detached
pieces bore no roots, nor formed any until the pro-
thallic stage had been arrived at, the tips remaining
perfectly green, and dividing and re-dividing
dichotomously in proportion as the basal portions
turned brown aud died. A. f. -f. unco-glomeratum is a
seedling from a remarkably ramose form of the
species found wild in Yorkshire, A. f. -f. acrocladon.
The fronds of this plant ramify from the base
upwards to such an extent as to form a loose ball
of moss-like appearance, but this feature is exag-
gerated in the variety under notice, the division
being carried to a greater extent, and usually only
ending with the dying down of the fronds in
autumn. Dr. Stansfield, however, observed that
even then the minute dichotomous tips retained
their verdure long after the fronds were down and
otherwise dead, and iu 1897 he determined to cut
off some of these, aud layer them to see what they
would do. The result was the continuance of
growth and division, as stated above, and even-
tually, when the proper growing season arrived,
he was delighted to find that the dichotomous
division ceased, and that here and there the ulti-
mate tips were dilating into prothalli, while in
addition bulbils began to form here and there, both
on the ultimate ramifications and on the prothalli,
sexually-produced typical plants resulting as well
from the latter. The prothalli bore archegonia
and antheridia, as is implied by the last statement,
aud in one case a typical Kern resulted from a
cylindrical process from the under edge of a pro-
thallus, which already bore an apogamous bulbil
on its upper surface, and a sexual plant beneath it.

We have here consequently a Fern which is
seemingly incapable of closing its circuits of
growth by forming terminal cells ; the apical cells
continue to multiply indefinitely, building up as
they proceed the typical form of the variety, until
it becomes a question of formiug roots or root-hairs,
or stopping for sheer lack of nourishment. At
this stage, aided by extremely close culture, they
find a modus virendi in two ways, viz., by forming

An-Jh 8, 1899.]

TEE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

211

bulbils, which* develop roots and start new indi-
viduals, and by thiuniug-out tlieir substance and
forming prothalli which develop root-hairs, and so
obtain a fresh foothold for another generation.
Apospory here has clearly been entirely induced
by protracted culture, and the result is the propa-
gation for the first time of a quite unique Fern.
Stimulated by this success, Dr. Stansfield laid
down a number of pieces of various finely-divided
Ferns, and reports that within a fortnight after he
had done so, incipient prothalli were produced

lateral projections. The parentage of this Fern is
not known, it declared its character in his collec-
tion as a seedling last season, and cultures have
yielded dense clumps of prothalli which were ex-
hibited in conjunction with the plant itself, though
time precluded any observations thereanents.

Clearly with these examples before us, it would
be well worth while to extend research to such
exotic Perns whose barrenness stands in the way of
propagation, while their finely cut character may
indicate the possibility above set forth. Incident ally

FlGi 80. — A FLOWERING si'tli 01 CORTLOPSIS 1'ABCHXORA i
FLOWERS PALE CREAM OR FELLOW.

COLOrR <iK

from extensions of the terminal veinules of Poly-
podium vulgare var. grandiceps, Parker, though
unfortunately the culture went wrong and fungi
destroyed the piece shortly afterward. This dis-
covery brings, not merely new proof of the
possibility of inducing apospory in unexpected
quarters, but adds another species to the already
swollen lists of aposporous Ferns.

The writer also availed himself of the opportu-
nity of exhibiting a second aposporous Scolopen-
drium in which the heavy crests are fringed with
prothalli all over, in addition to a few produced on

it is worthy of remark, that apospory proves to
be no bar to variation. Hitherto, indeed, in the
several revised cases of aposporous plants of Poly-
stichum angulare, the progeny has been defective
and depauperate, but Dr. Stansfield has succeeded
in raising pure bred typical plants from Moly's
unique variegated form ; and the writer raised an
immensely improved plant of A. f. -f. clarissima,
Bolton, so that culture in this direction may well
compensate him who takes it in hand, both by
enabling him to propagate presumed barren forms,
and improve them by selection. C. T. Druery.

CORYLOPSIS PAUCIFLOBA.*

Sl'RiNC-flowering shrubs are always welcome, but
the present species, though long known, is by no
means familiar to planters or gardeners. We owe
the opportunity of figuring it to Messrs. William
Paul & Son, of Waltham Cross, who exhibited it
at one of the recent meetings of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society. The day was so foggy that the
flowers appeared to be white, but in a better light
they are seen to be pale primrose-yellow. The
shrub is perfectly hardy, the flowers are produced
in early spring before the leaves; their general
appearance is shown iu the illustration (fig. 80). The
shrub reminds one in general character of the Hazel,
with the leaves of the Hornbeam. Its affinity,
however, is with the Witch-Hazels (Hamamelis),
also winter-flowering shrubs of much attractive-
ness, and with the Parrottia, whose leaves assume
such glorious golden-bronze and purplish tints in
the autumn. Corylopsis spicata (fig. 79) is perhaps
better known. It has broader leaves than C.
paucitlora, and ten to twelve flowers in the
cluster iustead of two or three only, as in C. pau-
citlora. Both species are of the easiest culture.
We suggest that small plants might be lifted in
the autumn and placed under glass, in order to
accelerate the unfolding of the flowers. Probably
they would not bear high temperatures. The
construction of the flowers is so peculiar as to be
of interest to the botanist, independently of their
att ractive appearance.

American Notes.

WINTKl; DAMAGE.
The closing winter has been very hard on many
fruits iu nearly all sections of North America.
Those sections which have suffered least are the
Pacific coast fruit • region, upper New England,
and the maritime provinces of Canada. The
Orange-growing regions of Louisiana ami Florida
have been severely visited by freezing weather, the
crop being wiped out in many districts. The
Peach-growing sections of Georgia, Maryland,
Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts,
Michigan, and Ontario, are said to be so badly
bitten by the cold as not to promise any fruit for
this year's market. (It may be said parenthetically
that it is customary iu this country to magnify
these disasters at this time of the year, though it
really seems that the case is serious this time).
Apple-trees which appear to bo in excellent con-
dition in the Eastern States, have sustained heavy
damage in many parts of the Mississippi Valley.
Secretary Goodman of the Missouri Horticultural
Society says, " there never have been such serious
results from any cold winter as this one, during the
history of fruit-growing in Missouri." I am
reliably informed that many thousands of Apple-
trees have beeu killed in Minnesota, Iowa, Wis
consin, and neighbouring states. In all these
sections Peaches, Plums, and other fruits (where
grown) have suffered even more severely. This
winter will be a final test for many of the mucli-
advertised "ironclad " varieties.

Extra Hardy Fruits.
The destructive winter will doubtless revive
interest in the search for extra hardy varieties of
fruits. This hunt has been going on in this country
with waxing and waning zeal for a quarter of a
century or more. No more interesting or instruc-
tive piece of horticultural history could be
mentioued. Thousands of horticulturists, spread
over a territory of GOO miles wide and 2000 miles
long, have been striving by every means in their
power towards one end. That end is the produc-
tion or discovery of fruits (especially Apples) which
shall withstand the severe winters of Canada and
the Northern States. It seems to me that there
has never beeu an experiment iu plant breeding and
acclimatisation attempted on suoli a tremendous

Corylopsis paucitlora, Sisbold et Ziiccarmi, Tlor. Japan,
cent. i. (1S35), t. 20.

212

THE GAB BE NEBS' CHBONICLE.

[April 8, 1899.

scale. To a great degree the efforts have been
successful, and Apple-culture has moved forward
many miles upon the northern frontier in the last
two decades. The work still goes on. There is
not space here to give any account of it ; but a few
of its features have been the Russian expeditions of
Charles Gibb, Professor Budd, and Professor
Hansen ; the extensive importations of Ellwanger
and Barry, S. D. Willard, A. C. Tuttle, the
Department of Agriculture ; the intensely inter-
esting breeding experiments of Peter Gideon and
others, and especially the fortuitous discovery of
hardy native seedlings. The man who would collect
the facts could make a good book ou this
subject, one valuable as history, and valuable to
horticulture.

Apple Canker.

It is the opinion in Europe, I feel sure, that
American fruit-trees are a badly infested lot. We
are always discovering some new insect or fungus-
enemy, and we are always talking about them —
q"uite too much, so far as our relations with Europe
are concerned. Our Trans-Atlantic friends should
bear in mind the fact that we are making a very
thoroughly organised study of these things here, and
that minute knowledge of such subjects is demanded
by all our successful fruit-growers. The latest
orchard enemy to come to notice is the " Apple-
canker. " This is probably not the canker described
in England by Forsyth (Treatise on the Culture and
Management of Fruit-trees, 5th ed., p. 349), yet it
is somewhat of the same nature. It has been
commendably studied by Mr. W. Paddock, of
Geneva, N.Y., who finds it to be caused by the
same fungus that causes the black rot of the fruit,
viz., Sphasropsis malorum, Peck. It causes the
branches to blacken, and the bark to crack, and
eventually kills the limb or the whole tree if not
overcome. It seems that the disease is quite
destructive in some parts of the country. It
appears to be of more than usual economic impor-
tance, and we are glad to learn that it probably
can be controlled by spraying with Bordeaux
Mixture, and without altering greatly the plan of
treatment now in vogue in all good American
orchards. F. A. W.

The Rosary.

THE PRUNING OF ROSES.

Shivering here in Edinburgh towards the end
of March, with from 12° to 20° of frost, and the
north winds of March curdling one's breath, it was
just a little tantalising to read Mr. Chapman's
advice in your " Flower-garden Calendar," to prune
Ro3es a fortnight sooner, as they were so much
earlier than usual. Why, north of Tweed, and in
large districts south of Tweed, the season has the
safety and merit of being late. Even the fruit-
buds, to say nothing of the more restful forest-
trees and shrubs, are specially restful and dormant;
and refused to move at the bidding of the two days
or so of June that we had in the early days of
March. But then Mr. Chapman wrote from genial
Gloucestershire, and since he wrote, the west has
also had a taste of an old-fashioned March, which
may have robbed the instructions of the earlier
pruning of Roses of their urgency. But then local
conditions must be studied before beginning to
prune. For example, advising as to Woburn, Bed-
fordshire, before the cold snap of 2° below zero the
other week, one might have advocated early
pruning. Now, probably, the middle of this month
will be better.

The varieties of Roses and their idiosyncrasies
must likewise be studied. Long ago we grew com-
paratively few species of Roses, and most of these,
excepting the pink Monthly, Dowered but once a
year, and might with safety be pruned as soon after
the fall of the leaf as convenient. In fact, the
summer Roses, Cabbage, Moss, and hardy climbers,
were pruned on the heels or abreast of the Goose-
berries and Currants. The old Monthly or China

Roses could hardly be said to be pruned at all in
the modern sense of the phrase. The shoots were
slightly protected, covered, or cut back almost level
with the ground, and seldom or never failed to give
a good account of themselves the current or coming
season.

To a considerable extent, rosariaus are rinding
out that what suited the old Chinas also suits
modern Teas. The less pruning with many of
these the more and the better bloom. Judicious
thinning rather than close spurring is what these
Roses most need. As to other Roses, modern
growers have entirely reversed the old maxim as to
hybrid perpetuals and other varieties. The stronger
they grow, the harder aud closer should they be
pruned back or spurred in. The practical result,
as proved by years of experience, being the longer
the shoots are pruned off, the fewer and less per-
fect the blooms. Hence, now the clear and simple
working rule in pruning is the maxim — the
weaker the shoots, the harder they should be
pruned ; the longer and stronger, the less pruning —
and thus it comes to pass that the spurs or Rose-
shoots left for bloom may have as wide a range as
from an inch to a yard or more. Mr. Chapman
gives excellent advioe on these points. I was also
pleased to note his special paragraph devoted to
the Pink Monthlies and other China Roses. I
wish also to endorse his views as to the superiority
of young Larches from 8 to 15 feet high as supports
for pillar, pyramidal, or climbing Roses. These
young Larches, if cut in the early spring and
pealed in bole and branch, are more ornamental,
clean, and lasting, than when the bark is left on.
The Roses are more effective when the lower
branches are left from 15 inches to a yard wide at
the base, and taper into 6 inches or less at the tip,
thus forming graceful cones. The resin in the
Larch is as efficient as a coat of varnish in shedding
off the rain aud excluding vapour. In fact, I have
found pealed Larch equally or more durable than
varnished or tarred sticks or stakes. D. T. F.

pui'poses of reference. How the unfortunate Tea-
plant manages to survive at all is a mystery after
the inspection of this formidable list of enemies.

Notices of Books.

The Pests and Blights of the Tea Plant,
ETC. By George Watt, M.B. (Calcutta,
Government Press, 189S ; pp. 467, t. xvii.)

This is an account of a visit paid by the author
to the Tea-growing districts of Assam, in order to
study the Tea-blights and to inquire into the value
of Adhatoda Vasica as an insecticide. The report
is professedly of a popular character, but lays down
certain general principles for future guidance, aud
suggests means of co-operation between the plauters
and scientific investigators. An infusion of the
leaves of Adhatoda proved serviceable in the case
of red spider and white ants. A decoction of a
Fern, Nephrodium aridum of Baker, has also been
found an effectual insecticide ; but as Dr. Watt points
out, until the life history of each pest is fully
understood, the application of insecticides is
empirical aud unsatisfactory. Where the planta-
tions have been well cultivated there are relatively
few blights, at the same time cultivation itself
induces au unhealthy condition, or at least, a pre-
disposition to disease. The Tea-plant is, as it
were, forced to produce a disproportionate amount
of foliage, aud it is grown under abnormal condi-
tions which predispose the plant to the attacks of
disease.

Dr. Watt sketches brietly the physiology of the
Tea-plant, and the practical details of cultivation.
A good manure for Tea would be composed per cent,
of mineral phosphate 50, saltpetre 30, wood ashes
20, potash, lime, nitrogen, phosphorus, all requisites
for the growth of Tea being thus provided for.

Various leguminous plants are used for green-
manuring. A detailed account of the various pests
(insects) and blights (fuugi) is given, together with
indications as to the best method of coping with
them. This portion of the volume is a veritable
cyclopaedia of information, and is most valuable for

Bulletin de la Societe Francaise dHorti-
culture de londres.

We have once more before us the annual publica-
tion of this useful and prosperous Society. Having
already had occasion to notice it several years in
succession, we need only say that the present issue
is in style and get up, much the same as usual,
although of course the literary matter in the body
of the work is quite different. It is interesting to
note that, both financially and numerically, con-
siderable advance is being made, and that after ten
years' existeuce, the Society can boast of a total of
500 members, including many of the most famous
horticulturists on both sides of the Channel.
Leaving aside the ordinary matter relating to the
Society pure and simple, it may be worthy of
mention that some of the papers read at the meet-
ings of the Society comprised such subjects as the
Swanley Horticultural College, Vine growing in
Wales, the Leading London Parks, Notes from
Annan, besides several others on cultural subjects.
The frontispiece this year is a portrait of Mr. John
Ouvrard, with a short biographical notice of that
gentleman written by Mr. Geo. Schneider, the
Presideut of the Society, and to whose efforts so
much of its success is due.

WEEDS.

The Cauadian journal, Farming, as quoted iu the
Agricultural Journal of tin- Cape of Goorl Hop< .
in a recent number, contains a paper on this
subject by the Professor of Biology and Entomo-
logy which may be interesting, aud the study of
weeds and weed-seeds as recommended may be
found very helpful in fighting these enemies of
crops : — .

"An authority has stated that weeds have been
a blessing to the farmer and gardener.

Very few will care to ackuowledge off-hand the
truth of this statement, yet when we look into the
matter carefully much can be said in its favour.
The continuous warfare that every tiller of land
must wage in his efforts to control or exterminate
the weeds keeps the surface-soil in better condition
to withstand drought. The gardener must hoe, the
farmer must plough, harrow aud hoe, else his foes,
the weeds, would soon get the upper hand and
strangle the crop.

It is a well-known fact that any loosening of the
surface-soil has the effect of conserving the mois-
ture. The study of physics also reveals the fact
that water rises iu fine tubes or pores above the
level of the water outside the tube, and that the
smaller or finer the tubes the greater is this differ-
ence of level. When a gardener works the soil the
pores are made larger, for the particles are made
less compact than before, hence the subsoil water
does not rise so high, and evaporation is not so
rapid.

During seasons of drought this simple act of
loosening the soil with a hoe and rake plays a very
important part. Weeds compel this simple act, and
hence are beneficial in this respect.

On the other hand, weeds, like other plants,
require water, which is imbibed by the roots, and
carried to the leaves. The great bulk of this water,
which has acted as a vehicle for the transportation
of salts from the soil to the laboratory of the plant
— the leaves — is again transferred, or evaporated
into the air, and hence lost to the soil. It can be
readily seen how very important is this question of
weeds iu a dry season, when the subsoil-water
requires to be looked after and couseived.

Again, weeds, like other plants, require nourish-
ment, aucl, when they are allowed to grow, the
salts, which should be absorbed by the crop, are
takeu up by the weeds. This piracy ou the part
of weeds can be stopped only on the death of the
weeds.

April 8, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

213

Most farmers are able to recognise weeds. They
can tell when one plant is interfering with the
proper growth of some other plant which is of
greater economic importance. A weed has been
cleverly defined as a 'plant growing out of place.'
Nearly any plant may become a weed, but only a
few hundred out of many thousand become weeds
of any economic importance. According to the
definition given above, weeds would include the
lower plants, such as smuts, mildews, rots, and
moulds ; but, popularly, weeds are looked upon as
plants of considerable size, and the microscopic
species are not considered.

A kuowledge of the habits of weeds is the first
essential in a scheme for their eradication. For
example, the following habits should be thoroughly
studied : —

1. Is the weed an annual,' biennial, or perennial ?
If the weed is annual, destroy it before it seeds.

2. Is its seeding capacity great or small ?

3. How are its seeds disseminated or dislributi .1

Experience has shown that the following bad
weed seeds are very frequently found in Timothy
seed : Ox-eye Daisy, Yarrow, Chamomile, Thistle,
and Fox-tail. Clover seed has Heal-all, Dodder,
white and yellow Melilot, Pepper-grass, None-such,
narrow leaf Plantain, and Bouncing Bet. These
are all most miserable weed seeds, which should bo
carefully looked after.

Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom from
weeds."

VANILLA PLAN1F0LIA.

Having this season been fortunate in securing a
good crop of the Vanilla-pods, it may interest
readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle to know onr
method of procedure. We do not always thus
succeed in fruiting the species, though generally
the plant produces a fair amount of bloom. In
respect to setting the blooms, the instructions
given in the Garth n< rs' ( 'hronhle, vol. xxii., p. .'i07,

81. — FRUITING SPRAY OF VAMI.l.t II, \\ 1 1 "I IA.

—by wind, water, or by animals '! Many a farmer
finds his fields full of Thistles through the careless-
ness of a ueighbour, who neglects to cut his Thistles
before they seed.

4. Is its root system extensive ? The Thistle
propagates itself by its extensive root system. The
common Bindweed has an enormous system of
roots, which is almost impossible to eradicate.
Kill the weed when it is young, before it becomes
deeply rooted.

5. Is the weed a parasite? The Dodder fixes
itself to the Clover-stem, and imbibes food from
it through roots which it sends into the plant.
The ouly remedy in this case is to destroy the
Clover crop, and to be extremely careful in the
selection of Clover seed.

Farmers must insist on pure seed, if they wish
to keep a check ou weeds.

A knowledge of weed seeds is nowadays neces-
sary to the successful farmer.

The botanical section of the Experimental Union
is now making up sets of weed seeds, which will be
distributed in due time to those who are interested
in weed eradication.

should be helpful to those who have had but little
experience in the matter. I have never known a
pod to set naturally, and this shows the need there
is to understand the peculiar formation of the
flowers. The pollen is so much closed in, that con-
siderable care is necessary to remove it to the
stigma. Flowers that have not been artificially
pollinated sometimes develop pods, but these fall
as soon as half grown, and are useless. Iu my
previous note above referred to, I stated that we
had recently planted this Vanilla in a new position,
and had given it more exposure. This has yielded
us much better results, and though a partial shade
is necessary when the plant is in active growth,
it is injurious from October until March.

A total failure oue year iu the case of plants
growing in shade, and of others in comparative
light, induced us to plant in another house, where
they were more fully exposed, and here we have
had splendid results, some of the clusters having
over twenty pods, and seven clusters on a single
growth. The growths are very strong and healthy.
Therefore, though partial shade is necessary during
the hottest part of the day, I would condemn the

use of one continuously. Though we have bees
very close to the house, they do not appear to take
the least notice of the plant when in flower ; but it
must be borne in mind that there are few flowers only
open at the same time. They are rather insignificant
also, being of a greenish colour, and devoid of aroma.
It is important that the shoots be well ripened, and
after the end of August I would shade but very little.
The leaves under this culture will have less colour.
We give a lower temperature in the winter months
than is frequently advised. From March to the
early patt of September moisture is given freely,
and the plauts throw out thick fleshy roots, which
lay hold of the wall or the woodwork with which
they come into contact. What is termed a brisk
stove-heat is suitable during the growing season,
but in the autumn and winter months 60° by day
and 55° by night will suffice. The plauts should
not be syriuged during the winter, as if the pods
are numerous, the syringing causes them to decay
at the ends.

As regards temperature, I do not think a few
degress of heat more or less in the growing season
of much importance if there is an ample supply of
atmospheric moisture. We syringe three times
daily, unless the plants are iu flower, when it is
best to keep the foliage dry. The Vanilla grows
grandly in a Piue-stove if placed in such a position
that the stems can get hold of some support upon
which to fasten their roots. Having so few roots,
only a shallow border is needed. This in our caso
is not more than 6 inches. The compost should
be good fibrous peat, with large lumps of charcoal
aud clean potsherds. No matter how grown, the
plauts have a tendency to get naked at the base.
We therefore take down each spring some of the
best lop-growths, and place these at the base,
giving some fresh material for them to root into,
keepiug the house for the time a little closer, and
syringing freely. The pods after setting, are only
a lew weeks before they are of full size, but they
n main for seven or eight mouths on the plants
b.'fore they begin to colour. This is an advantage,
as the plant in a fruiting state is an interesting
object. When the fruits are gathered, they should
be kept in a drawer or other dry place. They arc
best kept in an air-tight compartment. When
quite ripe, they then keep good for years, retaining
their rich aroma. I have not spoken upon pot-
culture, as I regard the one described as the most
suitable. Geo. Wylhes.

LODDIGES, AND STEAM-HEATING

OF GLASSHOUSES.
We were reminded by the sale recently of the

binary of the late C. Loddiges, of the famous
nursery carried on at Hackney by his progenitors,
Conrad Loddiges, and his two sons, which, as was
stated in an article on old suburban gardens, iu a
recent issue of the Gardeners' Chronicle, disap-
peared entirely late iu the forties.

Loddiges' was the home of many of the new
plants of the latter part of the last and first
half of the present century. The glass struc-
tures at the Hackney nurseries, at the time pro-
bably the most extensive iu the country, were,
previous to 1S16, heated chiefly by smoke flues.
In that year, as we learn from a note appended to
a description of Passiflora racemosa in the forty-
fifth volume of the Botanical Magazine, steam was
adopted as the heating medium ; two boilers, each
equal to driving a 20 H.P. engine, and fitted with
safety and vacuum-valves, hydrostatic balance,
steam-gauge, &c, and containing abouti2000 gallons
of water each, were erected. One boiler only was
used at a time, the other being kept in reserve, in
case of repairs being necessary. The steam pressure
was low, never more thau 22.5°, Fahr. , or 4 lb. per
square inch above atmospheric pressure. This was
conveyed iu cast-iron pipes of 4 inches in diameter
into the largest stove, which was 200 feet long
and 22 feet high in the centre ; this house contained
30,500 cubic feet of air, which was kept in winter
from 60° to 110°. From this house the steam was

214

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April S, 1899.

conveyed westward to three other houses, two
being greenhouses, and one intermediate, having a
total cubical contents of 15,160 feet ; and east-
ward to a greenhouse 180 feet long, which commu-
nicated with another 492 feet long, containing
together 45,000 cubic feet. These were kept in
winter at an average heat of 50", Fahr. There
was altogether half a mile of pipe charged with
steam, and the houses warmed to the furthest
extent in about twenty minutes, effectually keeping
the air under 20,000 square feet of glass without
covering to the above temperatures, producing a
regular, pleasant and highly advantageous atmo-
sphere for plants, perfectly divested of every sul-
phurous and scorching quality which the best-
regulated furnaces and nicest- constructed Hues
could never afford. The use of steam, however,
made little headway in gardens, and early iu the
forties hot water apparatus was taking the place of
that and Hues as a means of heating glasshouses.
From this note in the Botanical Magazine it may-
be inferred that Messrs. Loddiges were among the
first, if not the first, nursery firm to make use of
steam heatiug.

The Week's Work.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq., Dropinore,
Maidenhead.

The Protection of Fruit Blossoms. — The severe
weather experienced recently shows the necessity
of having protective materials in readiness where-
with to afford shelter to fruit blossom, the week
ending March 2."> being one of the coldest on record
for the season. The previous week or two having
been comparatively mild and sunny, Peach and
Apricot trees on south walls were in full bloom,
and although a few degrees of frost were expeii
euced, the weather beiug dry, there was not in our
district sufficient frost to call for covering being
placed over the trees before the morning of the
20th, when several thicknesses of garden netting
were suspended over all our trees in bloom. Where
wide copings existed this has, I think, saved suffi-
cient bloom to ensure a crop, although 15° of frost
were registered on three successive nights, aud
accompanied by frequent snow-showers. Peach-
trees on walls facing the west were somewhat later,
and much of the blossom had not expanded ; this
appears to be uninjured. It is a most noticeable
fact that the blossoms iu close proximity to the
wall have escaped injury, where others projecting
an inch or two from it have mostly suffered, and
this is a point where trees nailed to the walls in
the old way with shreds have the advantage in
this respect over those trained to wired walls,
which invariably stand further away from the
brickwork, and consequently in cold frosty weather
are more liable to suffer injury.

Plum, Pear, ami Sweel Cherry.— -The blossoms
are swelling fast, and many of the former are
expanded. Although it is hoped a return of cold
weather may not take place, yet some preparation
should lie made for protecting the bloom, should
the necessity arise to do so. No method is easier
of application than that of sticking poles into the
border 3 or 4 feet distant from the foot of the wall
and reaching to the coping, aud securing to the
latter three or four-fold garden-netting, usually a
sufficient covering at this season, whilst admitting
ample light by day. The netting should be taken
down as soon as the flowers have set, unless the
weather is unusually cold. A quantity of this
simple covering can lie placed iu position in a very
short time. The netting should be fastened at the
bottom edge to the poles in order to prevent its
being blown about or against the trees.

Gooseberry Bushes. — These may be protected with
branches of Spruce, Fir, or Laurel stuck around
them ; or what is perhaps 1 letter, a little dry bracken
scattered thinly over them.

Bush and Pyramid Pear Trees are not so easily
protected. Where of moderate size, four or five
light poles, long enough to reach above the tops of
the trees, may be tied together at the top, and the
other ends be stuck iuto the ground around the
tree. This will serve as a framework on which

some thin covering maybe placed, or a few branches
tied on thinly to afford some slight degree of
protection.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Winter-flowering Carnations. — The tops of young
plants which have been potted into 60's should be
pinched out as soon as it is seen that the roots have
taken possession of the soil. The plants should at
this date be harboured in a cold pit or frame, and
when lateral shoots are produced after the stopping
the plants should be shifted into 48's again, pinch-
ing out the points of the shoots when these are long
enough, and the plants are well established in the
pots. This stopping of the shoots is productive of
bushiuess and a free-flowering habit. Afterwards,
the plants may lie stood on a bed of coal-ashes out-
of-doors, and later they should be afforded a shift
— the last — iuto G-inch or 7-inch pots.

Astalea indica. — Plants in need of re-potting
should be attended to after flowering, and when
growth has commenced. Clean, well-drained pots,
a full size larger than the previous ones should be
used ; and for the compost use good hard iibry
peat, a small quantity of broken charcoal, and a
considerable quantity of silver-sand to give poro-
sity. In filling in the soil round the ball, apply a
little at a time, aud ram it evenly aud firmly with
a thin potting-stiek till it is as firm as the ball ;
having done this, place the plants in a temperature
of from 55° to 60°, maintaining a moist atmosphere,
and syringing the plauts freely overhead to keep
down thrip aud red-spider. If the ball was
thoroughly moistened before repotting, no water
need be applied for a week or longer. As growth
progresses, afford more air, aud when it is com-
pleted, the plauts may be stood out-of-doors.

Achimenes, Tydtas, and Gesneras. — The tubers
of these various stove plants should now be placed
in pans or boxes in which they are to be started,
and earlier-started tubers into the pots or pans in
which they are to flower. If au increase of the
stock of any of these is desired, the tops of the
shoots may be taken off, when 1 to 2 inches long,
aud pricked off in 5-inch pots to the number of eight
or ten in the case of Achimenes, and five or six in
that of Tydaias or Gesneras, and the pots plunged
in a hot-bed, or placed in the propagating-frame.
These take root readily, and flower well, as also the
plants from which they were taken. All of the
plauts named should be growu not far from the
glass in a warm pit or shed. The Achimenes do
not succeed so well or flower so abundantly in a
moisture-laden air as in a dry one; although iu the
latter red-spider is apt to cause trouble.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Oreliid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Thru Species of Epidendrumot much merit are
now in bloom, viz., E. Endresii, E. Wallisii, aud
the hybrid between them. All of the plants are
in a forward state, and may be re-surfaced with
living sphagnum-moss, or, wheu the flowers are
over, they may be repotted, if the case demands it.
Small pots or pans, almost filled with clean crocks,
should be used, working iu amongst the spreadiug
roots a small quantity of sphagnum, and, in the
case of E. Wallisii, some peat. The last-named
aud the hybrid may be grown in a sunny part of
the Cattleya-house, aud the first-named iu a cooler
ami more shaded position of the same or similar
house, affording each a plentiful supply of water,
diminishing or Increasing it in amount according to
the state of the growth and the seasou of the year.

Oncidium ampliatum is an Orchid which always
seems to be imported in its prime, as it usually
grows smaller as time goes on. One reason of this
retrogression is its extreme floriferousness, and
beiug a cheap plant, cultivators seldom take the
precaution of allowing it a year's rest by pinching
out the Mower-spikes as they would from more
valuable plauts. It is a warm growing species,
subsisting for some considerable time iu hanging-
baskets, or placed near the roof according as the
height of the house admits. Very little pottiug-
material should be placed about its roots, and this
should consist of peat chiefly, with clean crocks to
till the basket. Uming the summer when growth
is active, much moisture is needed, but at other
times but little, otherwise the bulbs will rot, or

the leaves fall away. Bletia hyaemthina, now in
bloom, will need large supplies ofiwater until the foli-
age begins to decay. Sophronitis grandiflora having
finished flowering, should still be given enough
water to keep the compost in a well-moistened con-
dition, likewise the pretty S. violacea uow develop-
ing its growths. S. cerriua, usually growu on a
block, will need very little to keep its bulbs plump.
Maxillaria graudiflora, having been kept on the dry
side during the winter, should now be given water
more frequently. When repotting this species,
a small quantity of good fibrous loam should be
added to the peat, and sphagnum-moss, its fiue, almost
hair-like roots finding greater nourishment if this
be done. This is a fine cool-house Orchid when
kept healthy, producing its flowers in abundance.
Auother desirable species is M. Sanderiana, whose
flower-spikes are now developing, and on this
account call for extra care wheu applying mois-
ture, so that not any may lodge in the bracts
enveloping the growing scape aud cause disaster.
The plant should be grown in shallow baskets
suspended in the cool houses, and should not be
disturbed until the flowers have faded.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Trees ami Shrubs. — Attention should be given to
all recently-transplanted trees aud shrubs, first
seeing that they are made secure against wind-
waving, as the young roots will be pushing into the
soil ; and if the root-mass gets loosened, these roots
break off, and growth is injured and retarded. The
means of securing a plant may be by wire-guys, in
the case of heavy-top trees and shrubs ; stout
stakes, to the number of two or three, in the case
of less weighty plants, and oue for a small one ;
but whatever is made use of, it should be effectual
of its kind. Shrubs with but few roots when
planted should be protected from the east wind, and
shaded from full sunshine for the first season.
Three stout stakes, with garden-mats fastened to
them, form a way of shading them ; aud smaller
shrubs may be protected with evergreen branches
stuck into the soil. In dry weather syringe
them overhead just as the sun is passing off
them ; it will keep them fresh till the suu rises.
If tile soil be porous, afford water heavily occasion-
ally, and a mulch of mauure after the first appli-
cation. Water that has been warmed by the sun
is better than well or pipe-water, as it does uot
lower the warmth of the soil, aud thus check
growth.

Kniphofias. — Clumps which were protected as
advised in previous Calendars may uow be exposed,
but the old leaves may not be removed before the
young growths are 1 foot high. If the soil is
exhausted, lift the plant, remove a portion of the
soil from the roots, aud refresh the plant by
adding pleuty of rotten manure and some light
loamy soil, and replant. Do not subdivide the patches,
or do this but slightly. K. Uvaria glaucescens,
IT. graudiflora, and D. uobilis form grand masses
of bloom, and look well when planted in wide
spaces. Among shrubs of moderate dimensions,
Is. Tuckii is very handsome, aud the earliest to
flower, namely, in Juue. The strong glaucous
foliage resembles that of a Yucca ; the colour of
the bloom is deep salmon-pink, shading to creamy-
white. The new hybrids are very free-growing,
aud great improvements upon earlier forms, throw-
ing up stout flower-spikes, and lasting a long time
iu perfection. Chloris, Lachesis, Obelisk, Ophir,
Stella, and Henry Cannell have fine flowers, orange
and yellow coloured. Leda, Matador, Piitzeri,
and Otto Mann, are of lovely shades of crimson and
scarlet. The smaller forms, Leichtliui, distachya,
corallina, Rooperi, and MacOwani, are brilliant in
colour, and do best in elevated positions iu the rock-
garden. The present time is the best to plant, as
if this operation be left until the autumn, the
foliage is apt to rot, and destroy the crowns.

Begonias. — Stored tubers should now be ex-
amined, cutting away decayed parts, aud dusting
the cut surface with flowers-of-sulphur. Having
overhauled the entire stock of tubers, place leaf-
mould 2 inches deep in shallow boxes or trays, and
lay each tuber on this layer about 1 inch apart,
and place them in gentle heat to start. As soon
as the tubers get plump, cover them to the depth
of au iuch with leaf-mould or Jadoo fibre, but afford
no water before growth pushes through the soil ;
and when this is sufficiently strong, pot the tubers

AnuL 8, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

215

into 48's somewhat firmly, using a mixture of
three parts yellow loam, leaf-mould, and sand.
Place them in a cool frame, keep the lights close
for a few days, and damp over and between the
pots till roots form, and afterwards afford water
carefully so as not to cause souring of the soil.
Some tubers will be later than others in starting,
and some may go blind. The larger tubers may
be cut in half just between the growths, and potted
in small pots. Let the tubers when potted be kept
near the glass, and shade the growth from the sun.
When the shoots are crowded some of them may
be taken oft' close to the tuber, and inserted as
cuttings in small pots under a hand-glass, where
they will soon form roots and make useful tubers
for another year. The yellow-flowered varieties
are very distinct in growth and habit, but the
deeper tints are lacking in vigour. These are best
when kept by themselves, using less moisture and
a few degrees more warmth.

Seeds. — The following seeds may be now sown
in the open border : — Pieony-flowered, and other
annual varieties of Poppies, Limuanthes Douglasii,
Linums, Malopes, Mignonette, Nicotiana, Tro-
paolura, Hibiscus, Lathyrus, Clarkias, Calen-
dulas, &o. Soil not heavily manured is best for
these. This should be made level, and the seed
sprinkled near the surface. Plants of Aquilogia,
Campanulas, and other biennial plants raised in
boxes, should be planted in borders, and in reserve
gardeu for cutting purposes. Herbaceous plants
that are to be added should be bought in at once
to form good-sized plants to Mower this year.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Barnet.

Tomato*. — The plants intended for planting out-
side should be potted before they get drawn and
weak in the seed-pots, placing two in a 60 or three
in a 48, using light, fresh soil mixed with road-
grit. Let the young plants down to the seed-leaf
in potting them, and afford tepid water with a fine
rose-can to settle the soil. The pots should be
stood in a warm frame, and afforded slight shade
till established. Tomatos should be kept growing
gently, and when large enough, repotted into
48's or 3'2's, from which they may be transferred
to the open ground when the proper time arrives,
and they have been suitably hardened oft'. If seed
has not been sown, no time should be lost in sowing
sufficient to meet the needs of this planting. The
plants by June 1 should be fully ■-' feet in height,
and if some of the bunches of flowers have then
"set," it will be a great advautage. Great care
must be taken not to cause a check by exposure to
cold air, affording very ctld water at the root, &o.

Seed-sowing. — Seeds of Cauliflower for a large
planting, and of Brussels Sprouts, Savoys, and
Couve Tronchuda for a moderate supply, may be
sown on a warm border, having previously levelled
the land and raked it evenly aud smoothly, and
made it moderately firm. Sowing may be done in
drills half an inch deep and 8 inches apart, or
broadcast, hacking the seed into the soil with a
rake. It is well, if the beds cannot be netted, to
shake up the seed in dry red lead. It is well to
keep a memorandum of the times of sowing, and the
names of the kinds and varieties, in case any of the
labels should get removed. A pinch also of that
valuable early Broccoli, Snow's White, should be
sown.

Potato*. — Early, late, and mid-season varieties
of 1'otatos may now be planted in bulk. If an
exception be made, a few of Ashleaf may be pre-
served for planting late in July, for supplying new
Potatos in the autumn. The strong-growim'
varieties should be afforded a space between the
rows of from '2 to 2J and 3 feet, when a better yield
aud less loss, should the disease attack the plants.

Beet. — Although as yet too early in the month
to sow the main crop of Beets, some seeds of the
Egyptian or Turnip-rooted variety may be sown on
a warm border to afford an early supply of roots.
Sow iu patches of four or rive seeds in drills,
1 inch deep and 14 inches wide ; or they may be
pressed in at 8 inches apart in rows, putting three
seeds in each patch.

Vegetabh -Marrows. — These are grown in a
variety of ways, all of which answer well ; and
seed may be sown at any time from now onwards to
May. I usually place three seeds in 4J-iuch flower-
pots tilled with ronghish loam and rotten stable

manure, and stand these in a vinery, and when the
plants are hardened off suitably iu May, I plaut
them out on heaps of decaying garden-rubbish, or
in trenches dug out 3 feet wide, and deep enough to
permit of a good mass of manure being placed in
them, aud over all a layer of good soil formed into
a flattish ridge, on which the plants are put out at
4 feet apart, and hand-lights placed over them till
all risk from cold nights is passed. Vegetable-
Marrows can be well grown ou hills of half-spent
manure ; but for productiveness, a good soil made
moderately firm, with not too great a run for the
roots in rich manure, is best. Plants forwarded
in frames should be kept thiuned of the weaker
bine, and afforded ventilation iu accordance with
the weather, aud afforded water at the root, and
suitable night coverings.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.
Pot Vines. — The stoning period will now be far
advanced, or even passed in the case of very early
Vines in pots, and ventilation may therefore be
allowed a little mere freely. At the same time,
there must be no extremes. A "chink "of air at
night is beneficial when the berries have assumed
the first stage of colour. Maintain a genial tem-
perature by the aid of fire- heat, but a high night
temperature should be avoided. There will be
the same need for a periodic damping of the floor-
space, at auy rate for the time-being, as a change
from moisture to a state of aridity would encourage
insect attack. Water must be given to the roots
in sufficient quantity aud frequency to maintain
the soil uniformly moist, and weak liquid-manure
is best for this purpose. Such liquid can be
obtained by soaking manures from the cow-
yard, stable, or sheep-fold separately in tubs of
water. Drainage collected from the farmyard in a
tank affords an easy means of procuring the best of
plant food, diluting it according to its strength and
the purpose for which it is required. Bottom heat,
arising from hot-water chambers, should now be
slightly reduced ; it will tend to a better finish
being obtained in the fruit. The hot-bed of leaves
aud stable litter should be sufficient to furnish the
required temperature without auy or but slight
additions, but in neither case should the heat be
allowed to recede to a cool point. Attend closely
to the stopping of all sublaterals, that the energy
of the Vine be directly expended on the maturation
of the crop.

Recently-planted Vines, instead of being allowed
to make an unlimited length of rod, are best
stopped periodically. If the point be removed after
the cane lias grown from 2J to 3 feet, Ibis will
cause a direct strengthening of the stem growth,
which will be very plaiuly illustrated later iu the
season. A leader maybe chosen from the point
where it lias been stopped for the extension of the
rod, aud this again pinched when it has reached an
additional length of -J feet. A rod 6 to 8 feet long
is a sufficient length to mature and retain upon a
youug Vine during one season, and the laterals
beyond this may be regularly though not too closely
pinched. The latter course is advisable in cases
of extra strong-growing Vines, which, if kept
unduly pinched, are apt to commence growth from
the maiu buds.

Cut-bark Vines intended for fruiting iu pots next
year should be given the same careful preparation ;
unnecessary lateral growth, or undue extension iu
length of rod being a waste of time and plant
effort. Watering must be done with a regard to
the state of the weather, aud an excess must be as
carefully avoided as drought. Until the pots have
become well occupied with roots, it is better not
to feed with strong stimulants, but when healthy
aud abundant root-action has been established,
artificial or natural manures in liquid may be given
advantageously.

Vine-eyes or Cuttings inserted early in February
may soon lie transferred into pots two sizes larger.
If they have been pluuged in a mild hot-bed up to
this date, they would be better returned to the
same (though not necessarily plunged), until they
have taken hold of the new soil. Good turfy loam,
with some old mortar-rubble or crushed bones, will
be sufficient to use at this stage. A soft, sappy
growth set up by the use of animal manures in the
soil should be avoided. Vines need all the light
available in the early as well as later stages of their
growth. Light stakes should be given for their
immediate support.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.
March has, in this district, been one long calm,
with no rough winds to shake the catkin's pollen
into the Nut-blossoms, nor whip the fragile Snow
drop's whiteness into a dirty brown. This anti-
cyclonic period has been an advantage to the busy
bee, whether foraging for pollen iu the Crocus and
Snowdrops, or culliug the early sweets from the
forward Palm, white Arabis, and other early
flowers, or labouring incessantly carrying in water
to supply the growing needs of the increasing
family in the brood-nest. The calm weather aud
bright sunshine have enabled the bees to work in
comfort, and with comparatively small loss of bee-
life. The general opinion seems to bethat breeding
has commenced early this year, and consequently
an extra run on the stores will result. No one at
present, however, can tell if this early breeding
will be of permanent benefit to the craft as a whole,
or to any individual stock of bees ; because if the
young bees are bred out of season, they will be
consumers only, and nof producers, seeing thai
they cannot gather honey from barren lields. Nor do I
remember seeing the fields look more barren than
now for several years at this time of the year : night
frosts have followed the warm sunny days, and have
retarded the growth of vegetation, and kept things
backward. Those who live in fruit-growing dis-
tricts should try and take advautage of the early
breeding, as by judicious management they may
secure not only early honey, but also sweep the
board iu classes for honey of 1899 at the early shows,
such as Loyal Counties at Windsor, Essex Agri-
cultural, and " Loyal ' show at .Maidstone.

Honey Imports. The column of imports of
foreign honey is interesting, and, I think, poiuts to
the fact that our industry, notwithstanding lower
prices, must be growing. That bee-keeping is
going ahead, that British honey and British bee
keepers are growing in favour with the British
public, is patent to all observers. One cannot but
notice, as oue perambulates the large town, win i her
ou foot, or bus, or tram, that the number of shops
which stock honey and display the same iu con-
spicuous positions are increasing. And it is grati-
fying to note in passing that the old time com-
bination of " milk and honey ''is still hand-in-hand.
It is the dairyman who has taken hold of the honey
t rade.

( 'arbolic Cloths. As far as my experience goes it
does not hinder bees from going iuto sections, bin
I am quite sure that they needlessly irritate them,
aud I uow never use them in manipulatiou. I find
it far better to wring two or three unbleachi d
calico quilts out in a solution of "Izal," one table-
spoonful to a piut of water; then quietly peel
off the quilt, drawing the wet one on at the
same time. Let it remain a minute, then gently
lilt it for general observation as to strength of bees,
&c. They will be quietly at work aud semi to
take no notice. Then replace the wet quilt, and
taking another proceed to uncover one frame at a
time, covering those inspected with the second wet
quilt, so that none are exposed. A hive can be
gone through, I find,- without either excitement or
the hint of a sting ; while, when I have'used car-
bolic the bees are all on angry buzz, seeming to
say, "That nasty stuff frightens us so we don'l
know what to do ; but, wait till we get our sense
back, and then we'll pay you out," aud so they do.
I have goue through my small apiary of six stoci
and not heard an impatient note, much les.i had
a sting, from my dear little bees, by the above
method.

Trade Notice.

Mr. A. UiiMsi.KV, formerly with Mr. May,
Dyson's Lane Nursery, Upper Edmonton, ha
engaged with Mr. Goodliffe as manager of his n< »
nursery at Worthing, entering on his duties about
April 15.

A Mammoth Willow.— We extract the fol
lowing from the Transactions of thi Engh It
Arboricidtural Society. The tree was grown ai
Boreham, Essex, and measured when down
101 feet in length, 5 feet 0 inches in diameter,
weighed upwards of II tons, and was as sound as
a bell. It was planted in 183."), and was taken
down on April 10, KSfvS [query IS98], by M>
Warsop & Sons, for the sole purpose of making
cricket -bats— 1 170 being thus supplied.

216

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April S, 1S99.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

•

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, ns well as specimens and plants for
waning, should be addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Welling-
ton Street, Covent Garden, London. CommmiicaMons
should be written on one bide only of the paper,
sent os early in the week as possible, and duly signed by
the writer. If dfsired, the signature will not be printed, but
kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor doesnotunder-
take to pay for any contributions, or to return un used com-
munications or illustration*, unless by special arrangement.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of rcmarkahU plants, /towers, trees, &c; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to sec.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY,
TUESDAY,

April S— Koyal Botanic Society, Meeting.

( Royal Horticultural Society of
April 11 J ireland, Meeting.

. ,. , , , ( Royal Botanic Society's Exlii-

WEDNESDAY, April 12-> bJiHon at Begenfs Park.

('Midland Daffodil Show in Edg-
THURSDAY, April 13-! baston Botanical Gardens, Bir-
C. mingham ('2 days).

SALES.
J Imported and Established Orchids,

April 1 1 ^ ,lt protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

(• Palm seeds, Carnations, Gladiol;,
:-[ Greenhouse Plants. \c, *
\ theme & Morris' Rooms.

: ./Imported and Established Orchids

April 14 i a(. protnerue & Morris' Rooms.

TUESDAY,

/-f„..
WEDNESDAY, APRIL l'J; Greenhouse Plants, *c, at Pro-

FRIDAY,

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period March 28 to April 1, 1899. Height above
sea-level 24 feet.

Temperature of
the Air.

Sun. 26
Mok. 27
Tubs. 28
Wed. 29
Thu. 30

Pri. 31
Sat. 1

Means..

Tempera- I
tcre of the
Soil at9a.m.

J

<

o

o

6*

&

s

•d

t3

*3

ttJ

a>

<D

H

Ofl

■*

<

<

<

deg. 'leg. deg. deg.
W.s.W. 4S-8 44-8 54-2 37'6
S.K.W. 18-9 13' I 57;]
S.S.W. ,oii 17-s ;,:,'!
W.s W. 55 0 (9-1 58'9
W.S.W. 50 0 47 407 -8

■S.E.
s.s.w.

40-2
52-7

45-lli0'7
50-564-8

ins. deg. deg.

... 37-989'2

0-02 40-3 4o-:i

.".l 0'0-J 12-1141-2

... I.:,- 142-3
U-li 40 ".' 13-6

... 40-3 44-2
0-01 48-1 140

46- f 58'4

;.o-o
44-:.

43 : 5

440

Tot.
42-1 016 43-7i42-3 43-2 S6'0

deg. deg.

42-0 34.',
1'J 9 21'.',

42-0 86-0

43- 1
431
4S-5

43-7
37-8
39-5

Kemtrks.— The weather during the week has been very mild
and spring-like, with a remarkable absence of sun.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick. — 46 5'.
Actual Temperatures : —

London.— April .0 (12 p.m.): Max. 60' ; Min. 43'.
Provinces. — April 5 (6 p.m.) : Max. 55°, Y'armouth ; Min.
45°, Aberdeen.

Pine ; Light Showers.

The ( icean as a
Reserve of Heat

for the Earth
and Air in Win-
ter and Spring.

Such is the comforting conclusion
suggested by the facts so lucidly
stated by Sir John Murray' in
a paper read before the Royal
Society of Edinburgh on Monday,
March 20. Sir John stated that the deep-sea
temperatures had been placed on equal surface
projection maps, and from a study of these it
was estimated that over 90 per cent, of the sea-
floor was occupied by water of less than 40° F.,
49 per cent, being 35° to 40° F., 41 per cent,
between 30° and 35° F. , and 3 per cent, under
30° F. On the 10,100,000 square miles between

the shore and a depth of 100 fathoms, there were
annual variations in the temperature ; while on
the 127,100,000 square miles deeper than
100 fathoms no annual variation of the tempe-
rature had been observed, unless off the coast
of North America, where the Gulf Stream and
Labrador current run side by side.

Having thus stated the main facts as to the
temperature over the floor of the ocean, Sir John
proceeded to the second part of his subject —
the maximum and minimum temperature of the
surface of the ocean. Studied in a similar
way to the ocean-floor, it was estimated that in
the coldest months to the north and south of
the equator, 75 per cent, of the area of the
ocean is over 40° F. ; while in the warmest
month of the year, 87 per cent, of the total area
of the ocean had a temperature over 40° F.
There was thus a striking contrast between the
temperature of the floor of the ocean and that
of the surface waters of the ocean. It was also to
be observed that the bands of equal temperature
ran north and south on the floor of the ocean,
owinc to the north and south trend of conti-
nental shores, while at the surface of the ocean
the bands of equal temperature ran east and
west. The effect of these differences in the
distribution of temperature on the planktonic
and benthonie organisms of the ocean was then
illustrated by reference to pelagic foraroinifera
and other marine animals.

However potential the temperatures of the
floor and surface of the sea, and its main currents
and cross-currents in making the earth habitable
for man, horticulturists may be pardoned at
the close of an old-fashioned March of normal
severity, and a prodigality of dust, cheap this
year at a guinea a bushel, consisting of millions
of acres of sand into ash-heaps (model seed-
beds), if they also pause to note the great
saving ministry of the sea is thus becoming the
warniin'g-pan for earth and sky, and the
powerful and universal protector of our fruit-
crops, now slowly advancing into blossom.

Fortunately, the latter are probably a forfc-
nio-ht later than usual ; and the later the blos-
soming-time, the fuller the harvest, as earth,
air, and sea get warmer as the year gets older.
Fortunately for us, as fruit, flower, vegetable,
and plant growers, the cold water sinks to the
lowest depths or floor of the ocean, and the
warmer floats on the surface ; while ice in its
forming expands, becomes lighter, rises to
the surface for the sun and air to
convert it once more into warmer water,
and enable it to resume its part in the warming
and watering of the earth. With the major
area of the surface currents of the ocean at a
temperature of 40° there is no real danger of
gardening nor gardeners being fn 'Zen out. And
then we have the Gulf Stream for our special
help, raising and genialising our climate in a
most remarkable manner. At this critical
season, witli our fruit crops trembling in the
balance, when snaps of cold are apt to come
upon us with equal celerity and severity, it is
well to be reminded of some of the greater and
constant protective forces ever ranged on the
side of the cultivator.

KEW. — A correspondent writes: — "The
pleasure of a visit to Kew now-a-days is, to many
people, greatly spoilt by the want of hospitality on
the part of the officials so far as bicycles are con-
cerned. It is bad enough to have to part with the
machine at the gates at all in face of those well-
kept and inviting gravel-tracks, but it is more
distressing still to have to leave the favourite
Elswick or Beeston-Humber outside the gardens,

perhaps for some hours, on a stretch of grass un-
protected by a roof of any sort whatever, aud at
the mercy of hail, snow, or thunderstorms. Under
present circumstances, too, what can be easier than
for the bicycle thief to take his choice of desirable
machines, while his friend distracts the attention
of the gate-keeper? Surely the British cycling
public would not be asking too much were it to
suggest that a weather-proof shed, provided with
bicycle racks might be put up inside, at any rate,
the main entrance to the Gardens. To the un-
initiated there would seem to be ample space for
such a refuge by the side of the shelters that are
provided for confiscated baggage, or outside the
garden along the wall whereon the time-tables are
displayed."

The Surveyors' Institution. —The next

ordinary general meeting in Loudon will be held on
Monday, May 1, 1899, when a discussion will take
place on the "Agricultural Holdings Bill," pre-
pared and brought in by Mr. Ghanning and others.
The chair will be taken at eight o'clock. The
annual dinner of the Institution will be held in the
King's Hall, Holborn Restaurant, on Wednesday,
May 10, 1899, at half-past six o'clock precisely.

Single Blue Hyacinth "Charles Dickens.'
— Besides the single blue variety, says the Florilt
ilium Haarhmense, a double blue and a single
lilac Hyacinth are knowu by the same name — both
are sports from the single blue Charles Dickens.
The well known single purple Hyacinth of the same
name is from an eutirely different origin, and should
therefore be designated by another appellation.
On the other hand, a pale lilac-coloured Hyacinth,
Charles Dickens, not so geuerally known, is a sport
from the single blue variety here represented.
Finally, the double rose-coloured Hyacinth Lohen-
grin is worthy of mention — it is a sport from the
double blue Charles Dickens. The above facts show
the marked tendency of the race of Charles Dickens
Hyacinths, to produce "sports," a circumstance
that is not met with in such a high degree in other
Hyacinths. Connected with this fact, undoubtedly,
is the phenomenon so frequently noticed, that the
spike of a single blue Charles Dickens is half blue
and half red ; while the dividing line between the
two colours, .as a rule, lies in a spiral around the
cluster of flowers,

Nomenclature of Plants. — " At the
present time, the only dictionary of the plants of
the whole world, with their synonyms down to date,
is the hull. i- Kiii-i iisi* ; 1>kiiton and Bkown, and
others cited, are excellent authorities. They are
undoubtedly correct in their position, that many of
the names they propose to be adopted should have
been adopted ; but they have a hard task in tryiug
to upset the accepted nomenclature of the whole
world, throwing everything into confusion, and
utterly demoralising general literature, because
some generations ago somebody blundered. In
every other affair of life, even to the collection of
an honest debt, there is a period when it becomes
outlawed. The justification is, that by the failure
of the creditor to collect in time, too many innocent
iutercsts become involved. In like manner, there
cau be no reason why thousands should be made to
suffer by a change in plant names, because credit
for the original was suffered to sleep for a century. "
Met lam*' Monthly, March, 1899, p. 48.

Yucca gloriosa in a London Garden. —
On several occasions we have presented our readers
with illustrations of this tine garden plant in flower
in various localities in this country. We have
recently received a photograph which represents
a beautiful specimen flowering in a very small
garden at Nunhead, London. Mr. Hampton's
garden is but 21 feet square, aud the Yucca is
planted in the centre. The garden is quite hemmed
in with large Poplars and brick walls, yet last season
the plant produced a spike with 530 blooms, and
after being cut dowu early in October, it threw up
another spike with 27 flowers that were open during
the first part of November. Surely, this is a plant
that is worthy the suburban gardeners' appreciation.

April 8, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

21'

LEYDEN.— The directorate of this famous garden,
vacant by the death of Professor Sf/ringar, has
beeD entrusted to Dr. J. M. Janse, of the Buiten-
zorg Botanic Garden.

The National Chrysanthemum Society's
Annual Report for the year ending Dec. 31,
1898, a copy of which we have recently received,
contains a mass of useful information to cultivators
of Chrysanthemums for exhibition purposes, or for
the decoration of the garden only. Immediately
following the report aud balance-sheet presented by
the Executive Committee, are given the lectures

incurved varieties, and to synonymous, or too-
much-alike varieties, are items of information
necessary to the exhibitor ; and the awards of
the Floral Committee should be useful as a
guide to what are the most essential of the
recent novelties. The September show, that we
have repeatedly urged was useless, or even
worse, has been discontinued, at any rate for the
present year. There will be an early autumn
exhibition on October 10, 11, and 12, the great mid-
seasou competition on November 7, S, aud 9, and
an early winter exhibition ou December 5, 6, and 7.
All of the above shows, together with the meetings

that it is best to cut off the runners as often as
possible, others say it is better not to remove them
before fruiting. To decide the question, Mr.
DuERKorTF, Wolfenbuettel, has made the following
experiments. Three hundred young Strawberry
plants of the American variety Sharpless were
plauted in the middle of August, 1897, in six rows,
fifty plants in each row, the plants were all of
equal size and strength. At the beginuing of
September, when the plants began to grow, the
runners of all the plants were cut off. From this
date, September 5, the plants of row I. were
deprived of their runners weekly, viz., on Sep.

Fig. 82. — a display of winteb aconites in the grass in troEMASTOB park, .-tamfoi:i . (see p. 210.)

upon the Chrysanthemum rust-fungus, that were
delivered by Mr. Percy Watereh aud Mr. Geo.
M \ssek at the Conference held in the St. Stephen's
Hall, lioyal Aquarium, ou October 11. These
papers, and the discussion that took place in con-
nectiou with them, are worth the study of those
who last season suffered from the attacks of this
pest. The report of the Investigation of Sites. &c,
Sub-Committee is given in full, and members may,
therefore, discover the reasons that led this sub-
committee, in the first place, to report in favour of
holding the shows of the Society during 1899 in the
Crystal Palace, Sydenham. The amended rules of
the Society, and the later results of the work
of the Classification Committee in regard to strictly

of the Floral Committee, will be held, as usual, in
the Royal Aquarium. Westminster. A large

amount of interest will doubtless be excited by the
class at the November show for twelve vases of
Chrysanthemum blooms, for which a first prize of
£20 is offered by Mr. H. J. Jones. Mr. Davis'
class for specimen blooms, with a view to en-
couraging distinctness of colour, will also constitute
an interesting feature.

On the Influence of the Removal of the
Runners of Strawberry Plants upon their
Fertility.— There areamongst Strawberry-growers
different opinions respecting the removal of the
runners of Strawberry plants. Whilst some say

tember 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10, aud 17. Those
of row II. were deprived of their runners fort-
nightly, on September 19, October 3 and 17. Those
of row III. were deprived of their runners every
thud week, on September 26, October 17, aud so
forth, each following row being treated a week
later, that is, row IV. every fourth week, row V.
every fifth week, and row VI. every sixth week.
On October 17, 1897, the experimeut was inter-
rupted, as no more new stolons or ruuners were
formed. At the beginning of June, 1S98, the first
new runners appeared. On June 5, 1898, the
stolons of all plants were removed. Then the
plants iu the single rows were cultivated in the
same manner as during the previous year until

218

THE CxA B D E NEBS' CUB ONICL E.

[April 8, 1S99.

June 19. During the week, from June 19 till '25,
the number of leaves, fruiting -stalks, and fruits of
each of the 300 plauts were counted. The result
was : the plants of row I. had together 117") leaves,
177 fruiting-stalks, and 916 fruits ; those of row II.
11,37 leaves, 159 fruiting-stalks, and 841 fruits;
those of row III. 1139 leaves, 167 fruiting-stalks,
aud 860 fruits ; those of row IV. 1009 leaves, 127
fruiting-stalks, and 62S fruits ; those of row V.
970 leaves, 105 fruiting-stalks, and 618 fruits ; those
of row VI. had 928 leaves, 73 fruiting-stalks, aud
482 fruits.

Division.

Leaves.

Fruit-
stalks.

Fruits.

Each plant produced on average : —

Row I

13-50

3 54

18-32

Row II

21' 7-1

3-1S

lli-82

Row III

■J'2-78

3 34

17'20

Row IV

20-18

•2 -:.4

12-08

Row V

19-40

2T0

12-3(5

Row VI

IS'50

1-48

9-64

Except as to Row III., the results show that it
is best to remove the stolons as ofteu as possible.
As to row III., the experimenter considers that
some peculiarities iu the soil may have iuflueuced
the result. The remarks concerning the ripening
of the fruits in the different rows are interesting.
On June 21 there were ripe : —

Row I., from 916 fruits, 53 fruits = 57S per cent.
Row II., ,, S41 „ Ml „ = 7-01
Row III, ,, 860 ,, 3i> „ = 4-1S „
Row IV., ,, 628 ,, 55 „ = S'75 „
Row V., „ tils ,, 78 „ = 12-U2 ,,
Row VI., „ 482 „ 54 ,, = 11 '2U „

Dr. Dammer, Gross Lichterfelde, Berlin.

Cracking of Pears, etc.— The Gartenflora
and the Bulletin d' Arboriculture publish a figure
representing the effect of the Bordeaux Mixture as
a preventative of cracking in Pears, as a conse-
quence of the growth of the Fusicladium dendri-
ticum. The mixture in this case is made by
mixing one kilogramme of copper-sulphate, one of
lime, and a hectolitre of water, in the manner
often detailed iu these columns. The mixture, it
must be remembered, is used as a preventative,
hence it is used in the form of spray as soon as the
fruit is set, aud again when the fruit is half-grown.
The figures of Apples so treated, and others of tho
same kind not so treated, is very striking.

The Life of Plants under Adverse Con-
ditions.— Prof. Reynolds Green delivered, on
March 14, a very interesting lecture on this sub-
ject, which is published in full in the Pharmaceu-
tical Journal. When our columns are less crowded,
we may hope to extract some portions of the
address, which obviously are of greater importance
to horticultures eveu than to pharmaceutists.

Aseptic Treatment of Vines.— According
to the Annates Agronomiques for March 25, l>r.
Barretto, a vine-grower of Brazil, applies aseptic-
treatment to his vineyard ; that is to say, preventa-
tives to preserve the plauts agaiust disease-bearing
germs. To effect this, Dr. Barretto decorticates
all the old wood, disinfects the whole stock,
sterilizes the wires by heat, burns the dry leaves,
washes the posts in copper solutions, and pulverises
the whole vineyard with these salts as a preliminary
operation. Dr. Barretto considers that perfect
asepsis can ouly be ensured iu stony grounds which
restrict unwholesome and moist [exhalations, and
enable disinfection to be more conveniently carried
out. These preparations yielded good results to
the experimenter, and preserved his A'inesfrom rot,
which is prevalent in the State of St. Paul. Iu a
further series of experiments, dustiug with sub
phate of alumina proved equally efficacious.

Protection against Plant-diseases.— In
a recent periodical [Prafoische Blatter fur PJlan-
zenschulz, January, 1899), Professor J. K. Weiss, of
Freising, gives results of some interesting experi-
ments. He wished to test whether whole plauts

could not be treated as we do seeds, namely, by
immersing them in some solution which would kill
auy fungi present without injuring the plauts. He
immersed plauts of Hazel and Oak in spring-con-
dition without leaves, also Box and Privet with
leaves, in a 1-per-ceut. solution of copper-soda
mixture. After being twenty-four hours there the
roots were uninjured, and the plauts on being
planted-out grew perfectly. He recommends that
all plants brought into a garden from outside
sources should be treated in this mixture for one or
two hours before planting, thus ensuring the kill-
ing of any fungi they might have carried in. The
1-per-cent. copper-soda solution is made iu the pro-
portions— 3 oz. copper-sulphate, 3J oz. washing-
soda, and 4 gallons of water. The two substances
are dissolved separately in enough hot water, then
poured together, aud water added up to 4 gallous.
This is a weak solution, hut for delicate plants
may be still further weakened by addiug more
water. Where plants are suspected, it seems a
safe precaution to take. We wait to see what are
the results of further experiments which the
Professor has in hand.

Nymph>ea " Marie Lagrange."— The Remit
Horticole of the 16th ult., contains a coloured
figure of a hybrid Nymphsea as large as N. devoni-
eusis of gardens, the petals being rose-coloured with
a central light stripe. It was raised by M.
LAGRANGE, of Oullins (Rhone), between the nearly
allied N. Lotus and N. deutata, and, judging from
the figure, is a very line variety.

The Thirty Thousand Dollar Carna-
tion.— The raiser of Mrs. T. \V. Lawsou Carnation,
Mr. Peter Fisher, is, says Gardening, a Scotch-
man by birth, and a thorough gardener by training.
His nursery at Ellis, Mass., is entirely devoted to
the Carnation.

Mr. John Barron, of the firm of Messrs.
William Barron & Sox, Borrowash, Derby,
having been married recently, about seventy
employes of the firm were entertained to dinner
on the 25th ult. In 1 lie interval between the dinucr,
and an enjoyable concert that followed, Mr. and
Mrs. Barron were presented with a handsome
clock, aud hearty expressions of good wishes.

Devon and Exeter Gardeners. — The
subject-matter of the last paper of the session,
delivered last Wednesday, was, " Pelargonium
Culture from an Amateur's Standpoint," the
essayist being'Mr. Geo. C. Crabbe, Exeter. Many
useful hints on potting and the treatment of show,
fancy, aud zonal Pelargoniums, and of striking
cuttings, were given in the paper. For the annual
summer outing of the Association in July, it was
decided to visit Sidbury Manor, the seat of Sir
Charles Cave, Bart., near Sidmouth. The
spring session of iliis Association has been a most
successful oue.

The Torquay District Gardeners' Asso-
ciation continues to exert a salutary influence
upon horticulture in this much favoured western
locality. The seventh annual report just to hand,
shows how active the executive has been during
the recent winter season, when fortnightly meetings
have been held for debating useful subjects iu
connectiou with gardening. There have been
twenty six new members elected during the year,
and the Association has a balance of £11, which it
is intended to use for the purpose of adding desir-
able books to the members' library. Dr. It.
Hamilton Ramsai is theesteemed President of the
Association, and Mr. Fred C. Small the Hon. Sec.

Presentation to Mr. John Lazenby.— At
their meeting held on Thursday night, March 30,
at the White Swan Hotel, York, the committee of
the Ancient Society of York Florists presented to
Mr. J. Lazenby, who has resigned the post of
secretary, an illuminated testimonial and a purse
of gold, subscribed for by members of the Society
and other friends. Mr. J. <!. MlLBCRN took the

chair. Mr. J. PlLLMOOR made the presentation,
and expressed the regret of the President (Alder-
man McKay) that he was unable to attend. Mr.
Laze.nl v, who has been secretary of the society for
twenty years, was resigning on accountof ill-health.
Iu thanking the promoters and subscribers, Mr.
LAZENBY alluded to the great progress made by the
society, mentioning the fact that the first Chrysan-
themum show was held iu the house in which they
were met together in 1S79.

The Fogs during March have wrought

great destruction amongst Peaches in the suburbs
of London that happened to be in process of stoning
at the time. We are acquainted with several
instances where all of the fruits have since fallen.
This is a rude reminder to the suburban gardener
that his position is, after all, attended with serious
disadvantages.

Apples from the Antipodes. — The officials
of the Orient Steamship Co. enable us to state
that the Ormiiz lias sailed for Tilbury with 17,000
cases of Apples, and the Victoria with 10,000 cases
of the same fruit. The former ship will probably
arrive on the "29th inst.

Wakefield Paxton Society. — At the

ordinary weekly meeting of the members of the
Paxton Society, held at the Strafford Arms Hotel
on April 1, a good attendance was present, over
which Mr. Swire, art master of the Technical and
Art School, presided. The lecture on this occasion
was entitled "Gardeners," by Mr. TwiGQE, juu.,
nurseryman, Wakefield. A discussion followed the
lecture, aud a hearty vote of thanks was accorded
the lecturer.

Great Exhibition at St. Amand, Ghent.—

We are desired to state that a free entrance ticket,
available for the whole time that the exhibition is
open, will be presented to all nurserymen (not of
Belgian nationality) who may be desirous of visit-
ing tlie exhibition. Application should be made
without delay to the secretary of the Ligue Horti-
cole rUniou, Mout St. Amand, Gaud, Belgium.

Publications Received.— •Joumalofthi Hum;/
of Agriculture, March, 1S99. This opens with a
report on the British crops of last year, supple-
mentary to that published iu December, 1898, aud
indicating an "exceptionally high standard of
production reached." There are also papers on the
imports of agricultural produce, Indiau agricultural
exports, and various allied subjects. — Familiar
Wild Flowers, by F. E. Huline, F.L.S. (Cassell
& Co.); popular edition, part 1, with ten coloured
plates. — Nesting Boxes for Birds, by Joseph King.
Beiug No. 1 of the Peasants Arts Pamphlets
(Peasaut Arts Society, Queen's Road, Bayswatcr).
An attractive illustrated brochure advising the
making of nesting-boxes for birds : starlings, tits,
redbreasts, Ac, near dwelling-houses, aud speaking
in commendation of birds generally, to the exclusion,
of course, of the "cheeky, thievish, "aud universally
unpopular sparrow. — Proceedings awl Journal of
the Agricultural and Horticultuval Society of India,
for October- December, 1S98. This includes a paper
by Mr. A. J. B. Gisseleire upon a "sport" of Carina
" Parteuope " recently figured in our columns;
advice to amateur irrigatiouists ; exhaustion of
fertile soils, aud other items. — Canadian Horti-
culturist, March. Among the articles we note the
following : — Packing Apples for export ; wrapping
fruit and vegetables ; Stirling Horticultural Society ;
good results from spraying in Eastern Ontario ;
Apples for export, aud various shorter communi-
cations.— Die Vegetation dec Erde, A. Engler und
O. Druile (Leipzig, W. Eugelmaun). To be noticed
more fully shortly. — Tijdschrift voor Tuinbouw,
Vierde jaargang; achtste allevering. — From the
Australian Association for the advancement of
science, a paper by J. F. Bailey on Plants of the
Rabbit-infested Country, Bulloo River, 8, ','., a useful
catalogue, although "not to be taken as represen-
ting the flora of the district ; it will give some idea
of those plauts which were able to withstand the

April S, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

219

severity of the climate of those parts, and produce
food when all else is parched up. It was impossible
to identify those which had sprung up, owing to
the recent rains, and causing the country to look
so green, as they were, of course, in too young a
state." The paper is illustrated from photographs
supplied by Mr. C. J. Pound, Government
Bacteriologist of Queensland. — From the same
Association comes another paper by J. F. Bailey on
the Flora of the Islands <>/ Torres Straits mid tin.
mainland about Somerset, — Experiment Station
Record, Vol. xiii., No. 1, U. S. Department of
Agriculture, containing papers on : The Physio-
logical Rule of Water in Plants, by E. Gain ;
Action of Different Colours upon Plants, C. Nam-
marion ; Formation and Assimilation of Asparagin,
O. Loew ; Occurrence of Nitrates in Germinating
Plants, E. Schultze ; Nitrogen Assimilation in the
Cotton Plant, C. E. Coates and W. R. Dodsou ;
Sub-irrigation in the Greenhouse, W. J. Green and
E. C. Green : Cabbages, H. P. Gould ; Garden
Peas, B. C. Bilffum ; Apple Culture in Wisconsin,
E. S. Goff; Currants, S. A. Beach; The Russian
Thistle, E. O. Wooton ; Potato Blight, L. R.
Jones, &c. — National Nurseryman, March. —Agri-
cultural Gazette of New South Wales, Vol. x.,
Part 1, Jan., 1899. This contains articles on In-
sect and Fungus Diseases of Fruit Trees and their
Remedies, Messrs. Allen, Blunno, Froggatt, and
Guthrie ; Exotic Grasses (Paspalum dilatatum),
J. H. Maiden ; Useful Australian Plants (Agro-
pyrum velutinum) ; Native Fodder Plants, and
Botanical Notes, by J. H. Maiden, and Orchard
Notes by W. J. Allen.— U. S. Department of
Agriculture, Division of Entomology, TIic Chinch
Bug, by F. M. Webster.— BuUetino delta R.
Socicta Toscana di Orticultura, Febbraio.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Acai j a w w\, R, v\u •!• VHortU alture Beige, March,

Azalea tNDiCA, "Ceres," white, striped with reel - I
form; Revue de I' Horticulture Beige, April.

Bomarea Cakm.kj. Masters, Garden, February 25.

Dioon edule var., Garten Flora^ March 15, figs. 32—39.

Echinoc actus Whipplei, Engelmaon, Medians' Monthly,
March. Tlie flowers are represented of a pink colour.

Fendlera rupicola, Revue Horticole, March io, woodcut
(Saxiftageous shrub).

Fugosta hake i folia, < ■ , March 25. A Hibiscus-like
Malvad, with linear leaves; Bowel's pale lilac, 3j inches in
diameter.

IIkt.i vntiu's M..i,i is, Garden, March 4.

Hyacinth Charles Dickens, single blue, raised from seed
by Mr. Marten Mudde, Florilegium Haarlemeiutc, t. 2o.

Kniphofta Nblsoni, Ga den, March 11.

i m.i stri u jAii'M, i \i \ iriegatum, Revue <b V Horticulture
Beige, April.

Lissochilds Graefii, Kranzlin, a terrestrial Orchid, with
loose spikes "t" flowers, each Howei about 5 cent. (2 inches)
across, with spatulate brown sepals, spreading petals, white
within, yellow externally, fore-lobe of lip yellow ;
Flora, t. 1460.

M lqnolia Watsoni, Gai tenjlora, Februarj .

Naiu'is;si's, l, Pseudo-Narcissus, var. Emperor; l', bicolor
Empress; 3, iiicomparabilis Sir Watkin, Floril
mense, (. _, .

I 'i i u Gloire ii'Ki'inw, resembling the Pruni de Monsieur,

very productive ; fruits large, globose, purple, ripening bet

the Green Gages. A chance seedling; Revue Horticole,
February 1G,

l'i ,i m. Satsuma, a Japanese variety, with red flesh ; I
d'Arboj iculture, March.

Rose, Mns. W. J. Grant, a line plate of a fine Rose;
Gardt ft, March 18.

Uu.sselia sarmentosa, Revuede V Horticulture Beige, March.

Tulips, Rex rcbrorum, double red; ami La Can] i a
double white, Florilegium Haarlemense, t. 26,

SPEING FLOWERS ON GRASS.

This, like not a few otber new tilings
in horticulture, is not so novel as might be sup-
posed. Twenty or more years ago the late Mr.
William Thomson showed, from data gathered
from several gardeners, that many old mansions
possessed attached lawns on which spring-flowering
plants had been known to have flourished as far
back as the "oldest inhabitant" conld remember.
By means of the same individual, the large expanse
of half-kept ground here, called " The Wilderness,''
is kuowu to have been more or less a large spring
garden on grass during the whole of the present
century. Unfortunately, there is no means of
determining'with certainty how or when the Bowers

came there. We do know, however, that a
"Wilderness" was planted some time near the
middle of the seventeenth century, and between 1700
and 1707 it was much enlarged and laid out in
straight walks, which were composed of grass.
Sixty years later, the " natural " style caused
another alteration. The straight walks, with their
tall hedges on each side, were obliterated, and
" serpentine " walks introduced. Gravel was sub-
stituted for grass, and the interspaces, where shrubs
and common flowers were cultivated, were laid
down in grass. It is not exceeding the bounds of
probability to suppose the tens of thousands of
Primroses of various hues which now carpet acres
of ground to have originated from the "Wilderness"
plantations. The wild Tulips, double - flowered
Daffodils, Cowslips, aud Star of Bethlehem
doubtless descended in the same way.

Left, practically, to a state of Nature, these
semi-wildings afford matter for thought. The
Primroses, with quaint-looking flowers, whose
petals stand wide apart from each other as the
arms of a windmill in miniature, are decidedly of
erratic temperament — spots they rendered beautiful
thirty years ago have to-day scarcely a repre-
sentative left ; aud other portions known to have
been clothed with grass ouly, are now thickly
covered with plants. Their rate of progress is not
rapid. Some seedlings from an improved strain
that I planted in a bare spot have, in a dozen years,
spread from the centre no more than as many yards.
Sometimes the seedlings form a thick clump, the
flowers all of one colour, as if a capsule with iis
seed had been dropped on the spot. At other
times they are' thinly dispersed round the pareut
plant ; they cultivate sociability, and so we find
them crowding each other under the shade of tall
I lollies, or cuddling close to the base of some giant
tree. Those, however, whom fate has placed in
the "pener glades spend their lives, which are
rather short, more apart.

Snowdrops display much individuality. Out of
hundreds very few can be found that agree in all
particulars. Some are very early, others late in
dowering : some tall, some dwarf. The flowers of
a few are very diminutive. Both outer and inner
segments vary greatly in shape, so much so that
instances occur when- the inner are almost identical
with the outer. The markings of the former, agaiu,
are very varied ; green, yellowish, none 1 Snow-
drops decidedly prefer the shade of large-growing
trees ; but they also wander to the open, and a
seedling is sometimes found three to six yards
from the nearest group. How the seeds are carried
I have not discovered. As the seed-pods rill, the
stem naturally declines to the ground, and by the
time the seeds are ripened, the capsules are buried
out of sight iu the grass, so that some outside
ageucy must help in the dispersion of these isolated
plants.

Narcissus minor is another plant that seeds
freely, aud among the seedlings very great diver-
sity occurs iu the size and the shape of the
Sowers. This plant, however, does not wander,
aud the young seedling are always found close to
tho pareut. I have seen seedlings from no other
Narcissi. In addition to tho old-established
Narcissus incomparabilis, N. poetieus, and the
common yellow, many kinds have been introduced
during the last twenty years. A method, at once
cheap aud successful, is to flower the bulbs tho
first year in pots and then in May to transfer them
to the "grass," either planting in small clumps
as grown in pots, or singly shaking them out.
One of the prettiest thus grown is N. oruatus.
I have also established one or two sorts of
Polyanthus narcissus.

Hyacinths die out in the course of a few years,
nor are Tulips any longer lived. Tulipa sylvestris,
however, spreads in the most extraordinary manner
by means of stolons which it makes in early spring.

Crocuses are most difficult to naturalise ; not
on account of soil or dislike' to the position,
but because of the fondness mice aud some
birds have for the eorms. Pheasants are extremely

fond of them, and, when visiting some gardens
near Ayr a few years ago I was shown examples
of the ravages of the common rook, which dig
up the roots and consume them. Mice may be
kept from the corms by meaus of very close-
meshed wire-uetting laid an inch or two above
masses of the corms, the whole being covered with
soil. I have also tried deep planting, that is about
10 inches below the surface, and have found birds
circumvented in this manner. I always plant out
forced Crocuses after flowering, but strong growing
varieties alone ought to be selected; dark purple
flowers are unsuitable, and best of all is the
Golden yellow.

The pretty blue Scilla pnecox succeeds well,
and also Ornithogalums, of which none surpass
0. arabicum. Alliums also are in an eminent
degree suited for growing in Crass, but in the
case of these we are encroaching on the flowers of
summer. R. P. Brotherston, Tyningliame, N.B.

[Our illustration (fig. 82, p. 217), shows how well
the Winter Aconite, Eranthis hyemalis, succeeds
under conditions such as are above mentioned, aud
under trees. The photograph was obligingly for-
warded to us by Mr. J. Butler, gardener at
Normauton Park, Stamford.]

Scotland.

•

THE CRUICKSHANK BOTANIC GARDEN
I •'( IB, ABERDEEN.

Thanks to the munificence of Miss Ann Cruick-
shank, the public of Aberdeen will shortly possess a
first-class botanic garden and museum. Before
proceeding with the laying-out of the gardens, the
tin tees appointed under the bequest consulted
Mr. Nicholson, of Kew Gardens, who visited Aber-
deen, and made a personal examination of the
ground. That gentleman's report has been the
basis on which the arrangement of the gardens has
been laid.

In the old Gymnasium School, arrangements will
be made for the study of systematic botany, with
laboratory accommodation aud lecture conveniences.
The trustees have it in view to construct at some
future time a suite of rooms running westward
from the back of the main block, for the study of
physiological botany, with suitable laboratory and
other accommodation. It is estimated, however,
that such an extension would cost nearly £3000.
At the south end of the present main building, a
granite structure is to be erected, to serve as a
botanical museum Its dimensions are to be 50 feet
long, 36 feet wide, and over 30 feet high to the
apex of the roof. The budding, which will have a
most graceful appearance, will be lighted from tho
roof, aud will be open to the public.

In regard to the gareleus proper, a careful ex-
amination has shown that there is a depth of about
2 feet of good black soil, very suitable for the
purpose in view. The main entrance to the gardens
will in the meantime, at all events, be the present
gateway in Chanoury. From this entrance a main
walk will lead round the south end of the museum,
aud then strike almost due west, through the
centre, from end to end of the ground — which,
altogether, is between 5 and (i acres in extent.
From either side of the main walk, subsidiary walks
will carry the visitor to all parts of the gardens. A
portion of the ground iu the south-east corner, at
present used as a market -garden, will be retained
for a propagating ground for the botanical garden ;
ami another piece, about half an acre in extent,
will be set apart for the use of the Agricultural
Department of the University of Aberdeen. Prac-
tically, all the rest of the ground will be laid out in
plots for the culture of herbaceous plauts, after the
manner of the Royal Gardens, Kew. The small
building in the south-west corner of the ground,
intended at one time as an isolation hospital for the
Gymnasium School, will be utilised as accommoda-
tion for the gardeners. The gardens are to be free
to the public under as favourable regulations as it
is possible to frame. The plans, which have had
the full approval of the trustees, have been pre-

220

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 8, 1899.

pared by Mr. Bennet Mitchell, architect, in con-
junction with Dr. James W. H. Trail, Professor of
Botany, Aberdeen University, who has taken a
close personal interest in the carrying out of the
scheme. A".

Home Correspondence.

— • —

EUCALYPTUS. — In reference to Dr. Bonavia s
remarks, I may say, that one of the leading
druggists in Eome told me that the medical men
there had made a series of experiments about the
medicinal value of Eucalyptus-oil, or eucalyptine,
as it is called, and that they attach small value to
it. On the other hand, the very great efficaciousness
of the trees for drainage purposes is beyond all
dispute. H. E., Mentonc.

THE CAMELLIA IN ESSEX. — The enclosed
Camellia-blooms and foliage were cut from a tree
growing out-of-doors and overhanging the lake,
being reached in fact by the aid of a boat. There
is a very old man here who has worked on the
estate fifty years, and he says that the Camellia
was planted before his time. The tree must have
withstood some very hard winters during half of
a century. Edwd. Collins, Cranbrook Hall Gardens,
ll.J'ord. [If the tree has been in such a position
for the length of time stated, it is a notable speci-
men. The flowers sent are small, of course, but
the foliage is very good. Ed.]

MARECHAL NIEL ROSE. — Referring to Mr.
Fish's useful remarks concerning the disease Mare-
chal Niel Rose is so very subject to, I think two
considerations have to be borne in mind iu the
endeavour to rind a remedy. That it is a matter
of great importance none will gainsay who have
any knowledge as to the immense numbers of
plants which are purchased and die, after a year
or two's growth, or an attempt to grow. Primarily,
it is probable that the method of growiug-on the
plants so vigorously in unnaturally high tempera-
tures, before they are disposed of, may be the
c.iuse of lack of success when they are ultimately
planted out. Certain it is, that plants grafted at
or below the ground-line, notwithstanding this
initial vigorous growth, succumb the most. May
not contact of the Manchal Niel wood with the
cold ground in a soft, iinmatured state, be the
cause of both this and knotting? This variety
neither succeeds thus, nor properly long together,
as a standard much pruned-back, as is usual with
standards. Its nature aud desire is to make
vigorous growth; in furtherance of which, I have
known plants under glass, cut down annually,
succeed well. Buds grafted about 3 or 4 feet high
upon Gloire de Dijon make vigorous shoots. I
have had dual ones from such buds 14 feet long in
the season ; and it is possible by this system of
budding greater success may be obtained. William
Earley.

THE ABNORMAL GROWTHS ON MARECHAL

NIEL ROSE. — Your correspondent, " D. T. F.,"

with many other writers on the swelling of the

stem of this Kose, usually refers to it as a disease,

and also as being constitutional. But whilst I

admit that it is constitutional, I cannot admit

that it is disease or ill-health. The general cause

of this swelling of the stems of the scion seems to

arise rather from the excessive elaboration of sap

through the agency of strong leafage, thus leading

to the formation of cambium by the return or

aerated sap, in a way too free and rapid for the

capacity of the stock to utilise it, unless the stock

be of similar gross or strong-growing nature. But

as I have said, with large experience of M. Niel

worked on to gross growers such as were previously

named, this cambium swelling, miscalled canker

and "gout,' never occurred. Has anyone tried

that grossest of all Roses, Crimson Rambler, which

strikes so freely as cuttings, as a Marcehal Niel

stock. This should answer admirably, as it is iu

itself a free cambium creator. But the working

should not be onto small shoots. The plants should

be induced first, after being well rooted by hard

cutting back, to send up one of its characteristic

strong growths from the base of the stem, aud

that should be the building medium. Thru there

can be no doubt but that scion aud stock would

swell together freely enough. Without doubt the

primary cause of the trouble with Marcchal Niel

has been iu working it persistently on stocks that,

whilst excellent for other Roses, are unfit to meet
its peculiar requirements. A. D.

THE WEATHER IN NORTH AMPTONSHIRE. — I
am afraid in some cases the severe frosts and bitter
cold winds during March have done considerable
damage. Peach and Apricot-trees, however, have
not suffered greatly, as only those blooms that
were fully expanded have been killed. Roses have
suffered very much indeed. I scarcely know at
present how they will succeed this year, but they
are not likely to be very fine. I examined our
Onion-bed on March 29 ; the seedlings are about
an inch high, and under a small magnifying glass
the tips seemed as if they had been frozeu, aud
had since damped off. It is to be hoped that such
is not the case generally. A singular circumstance
in connection with the frost is that the Tree
Mallow (Lavatera arborea variegata) does not seem
to have taken any harm, except the very young
tips that have grown this year. I do not think the
spring-sown Peas or the Spinach have been hurt,
and at present some early Turnips that were
through the soil appear to be all right, but they
will most likely damp off. A friend about 5 miles
from Lamport has lost 40 poles of Potatos, the
frost haviug penetrated the soil to such an extent
that he fears they are quite spoiled. The most-
severe frost we have had has been 20°, and our
elevation is 450 feet. H. Kemps/iall, Lamport Hall
Gardens, Northampton, March 30.

IVY LEAVES EATEN BY AN INSECT.— On page
ISO of the Gardeners' Chronicle, a correspondent,
R. D., asks if any one has had similar experience
of Ivy leaves being eaten. We have here an
old Oak tree, whose branches are cut off to within
a few yards of the trunk, the whole of which is
covered with Ivy, and forms au object of beauty
all the year round. Last August something
w.is noticed to be eating the Ivy leaves, especially
those near the base, and I made a close examination
without detecting anything. But the uext day I
had success, for 1 found on a stalk-leaf of au Ivy,
a caterpillar U to 2 inches long, almost of the same
tint as the Ivy wood ; indeed, so much so, that it
was not easy to distinguish it. It had four legs
at the ends of the body, and with these it can t\\
itself very firmly on to the wood or leaf-stalk [a
looper, Ed.] ; it is also very strong, for while fixed
firmly to the wood with its hind legs, it will reach
about in search of food all round. After this
discovery, more than a hundred caterpillars were
captured during the next few days. In some
instances they had bitten holes iu the leaves ami
round the edges, and some were found suspended
by a thread. I have seen these pests before on
trees, but not in such numbers, nor on an Ivy
plant. [The caterpillar was probably the larvre of
Bjarnica rhomboidaria, Ed.] A. 7'., Birmingham.

SALADS IN ENGLAND.— Why do English gar-
deners so much neglect salads? Ou March 13, I
came to Sidrnouth, S. Devon, an eminently favoured
locality. The hotel is in a grand position, surrounded
by choice Conifers, such as Pinus insignis, &c, with
Camellias in flower, and a walledin kitchen garden
of 7 to S acres, with conservatories, &c. Here the
only salad to be seen was Mustard-and-Cress, most
ostentatiously served at every meal, as if a great
delicacy; but no Lettuce, Endive, or evenCelery; no
Radishes, nor fresh Mint for sauce. How different
from the north of France, where, with a much
worse climate, one has, at this time of the year,
Radis rond a bout Mane served each day at
breakfast, and delicious Lettuce salads at every
meal. I came ou to Falmouth, au even more
favoured locality in the midst of private gardens,
which uot even the Riviera can equal— where one
sees Tree Ferns, I'alms, Embothrium, Dicksonias,
and other very choice plants iu full luxuriance.
Here I am able to got a little tough Cabbage-
Lettuce, aud some even tougher Endive, most
sparingly served, and that is all. Can it be thai
the cooks prefer to send to the greengrocer for
French Lettuces? lam afraid there is something
in this ; but the hotel keepers do not give these to
their guests. 1!. ililnc-l'edhead.

AN OLD SEED HOUSE. — I have just met with a
catalogue of Dutch bulbs, including Cape and
oihers, issued in 1846 by Westmacott & Co ,
Seedsmen and Florists, 156, Cheapside, opposite
St. Pauls, As I cau find no trace of this firm in a
trade list published in 1S53, I assumed that it had
ceased to exist by that time. Iu looking through
this list, it is seen that in those days (regarding the

catalogue as a fairly representative one) the double
Hyacinths were much more numerous than the
single, and but few of the varieties of the former
have survived to this day, and even fewer of the
single varieties. The only named variety of the
vernal Crocus was David Rizzio. There were
only eight varieties of early Tulips, and the same
of double, while the named varieties of Polyanthus
Narcissus were much more numerous than they are
in the present day. R. D.

MALVERN HOUSE CONSERVATORY, MAPPER-
LEY, NOTTINGHAM.— The illustration in the last
issue of the Oardt ni rs' Chronicle was very gratifying
to me, as it showed how well Seaforthia elegans
had done after the lapse of sixteen years. Great
credit is due to Mr. Nicholas German, who designed
the Malvern House conservatory and stove, aud
planted the gigantic Palm ; and as a plantsman
and orchidist he was exceptionally successful, as he
established the Arnot Hill collection, and flowered
Odontoglossum Hilli and O. Arnotti for the first
time, and carried out the principal features iu both
gardens. It was a gardening treat to visit either
place. T. Edington, Tortworth Court, Falfield,
(jrlouci stershire.

PRIMULA OBCONICA AND P. SINENSIS. — Having
suffered from the irritation which the leaves of
Primula obcouica cause when touched, it may be
of service to those who, like me, are affected by
this plant to know that Coudy's Fluid rubbed on
the affected parts affords great relief. It may also
act similarly when irritation is caused by P. sinensis.
I '. >'. . I/isden.

■ With reference to the extract from

Dr. Kirk's paper in the Lancet, which appeared
iu the Gardeners' Chronicli for March IS, p. 171,
I may be permitted to make a few remarks.
For several years, whenever I have seen P obconica
grown, I have made a point of inquiring if anyone
who had to work with the plants felt any ill effect.
I have also made euquiries regarding the precise
ways in which the sufferers were affected. From
what I have learned, I should put down the
number of those affected as considerably fewer
than 'JO per cent, of those who handle or touch
this Primula. In the majority of those affected
only a severe irritation, more or less temporary, is
caused by simple contact. Should working with
the plant be persisted in, eczema is frequently
produced, and I have beeu told of at least one case
of severe blood poisoning arising from persistently
haudling the plant. In some instances the simplest
touch in brushing past a plant causes very painful
irritation. The foreman iu one English botanical
garden informed me that if bis bare arm touched a
leaf when he was going along the greenhouse path
the irritation produced was so painful that he had
to put his arm under a water-tap to soothe the pain.
Dr. Kirk's second " fact," viz., "that some con-
stitutions are specially susceptible, while others
enjoy immunity " 1 have proved by several
experiments upon myself, without however pro-
ceeding to the extreme of the patient who " chewed
the flowers aud swallowed the juice." I have
touched my lips with leaves, stems, roots, aud
flowers without feeling anything the worse. What
I have learned also corroborates what Dr.
Kirk says with regard to his patient that "she
had handled the plant for one or two years
before the first blistering of the lips was ex-
perienced. One of my friends cultivated this
Primula for at least two years before he felt any
evil effects, but he had at length to give up growing
it. Dr. Kirk's qualified statement that "ap-
parently the majority of sufferers have been
females, although the evidence on the latter point
is uot decisive," is not confirmed by my experience.
It may be that females are more apt to seek
medical advice, and that thus more cases, from
their sex, have come under the notice of medical
men than from among males. I am of opinion that
the number of males affected is relatively as high
as of females. One would have thought, too, that
gardeners, whose hands were hardened with their
work, and whose skins were apparently less sensi-
tive, would have been comparatively immune ; yet
my inquiries lead me to think that soft and teuder
skins are not more liable to feel the irritation than
others. I have been told of a curious case, which
I can hardly credit, but which I give for what it is
worth. It is that of a traveller who asserts that
if he enters a place iu which Primula obcouica is
grown he feels uucomfortable. Whether we are to
set this down as a " traveller's tale," or as au
instance of some occult influence, it is not for me

April S, 1899.]

THE GA R DENER S ! CHR 0 NICLE.

&21

to say. It is said that it is not even necessary that
the plant should he seen before the uncomfortable
feeling begins. The tale sounds incredible, yet
stranger things have been found to be true. From
a gardening standpoint, it is highly desirable that
we should have a little more light upon these
irritative properties of so valuable a plant. This
must be my excuse for the length of this note.
S. Arnott, Cariethorn, by Dumfries, N.B.

LONICERA STANDISHI.— Dr. Dammer's remarks
on Standish's Honeysuckle, in your late issue, is a

A FEW GOOD camellias.— It is to be very
much regretted that these exquisite flowering
shrubs should have been ousted from the popularity
they once enjoyed by the Chrysanthemum and
other plants of more recent introduction, but,
although relegated to the background for a time,
it is pleasing to see that they are gradually
regaining the position they once held and which
they so richly deserve, for there are few plants to
equal them for conservatory decoration in the
early spring mouths. This being so, a list of a few
good varieties may be useful to some who, may be,

\ \

Flo. 84. — TRUMPET NARCISSUS "KING ALFRED'': COLOUR OF FLOWERS RICH GOLD.

Awarded a First-class Certificate at the last meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society.

(See Report, on p. 207 of our last issue.)

well-deserved tribute to its worth. In Essex, I
have had it bloom, and in a somewhat shady situa-
tion— on the north side of somewhat overhanging
tree — as early as the second week in March. It
is a quaint plant, as its numerous spreading
branchlets become covered with flowers, the
fragrance of which is very pronounced and sweet,
before a leaf appears. Kept slightly pruned,
so as to give it a bushy shape, without giving it too
much the clipped, rounded, wretched suburban gar-
den form, it makes a desirable plant for the second
row in shrubberies ; and even a bed planted with
it, dotted with dwarf Arundo douax variegata,
edged with Daphne Cneorum, has telling effect
during the spring and summer months. W. E.

coutemplate planting a few at this season. I give
below a list of fifteen varieties which, I think, are
deserving a place in acy garden. Taking them alpha-
betically we begin with the old alba plena, which is
too well known to need any comment ; Beauty of Wal-
tham, pale blush, sweetly pretty, and hard to beat ;
C. H. Hovey, bright crimson, tine, a free bloomer ;
Chandleri, rich crimson-scarlet, and, like the
foregoing, a free bloomer ; delicatissima, blooms
like a double Petunia, creamy-white, exquisitely
delicate ; Duchess, similar to Beauty of Waltham,
but deeper in colour, very pretty ; fimbriata, like
alba plena, but with fimbriated petals ; Lady
Hume's Blush, softest blush, a great favourite
with the ladies ; Mathotiana, deep glowing red,

massive blooms— a grand thing; also its counter-
part Mathotiaua alba, similar in all but colour,
which is white, as its name implies ; Mar-
chioness of Exeter, rosy-cerise, a grand thine, and
worthy a place in any collection, free bloomer;
Montironi Vera, very solid, pure white blooms,
winch show up well against the deep green foliage ;
Conspicua, rosy pink, blotched with white a
greatly improved Donkelaari ; Coralliua, rich deep
red very showy; tricolor, flesh-coloured, flaked
With a deeper tint of the same colour, a grand
acquisition. These last three are semi-double
varieties, which are becoming well known, and
gaming in favour, and justly so, and should be
planted by all who have the requisite space.
A. //. S., Herts.

MARKET h GARDENING IN THE

CHANNEL ISLANDS : JERSEY.

(Continued from p, 205.)

Mr. H. Becker's Nursery.— On a busy morning
in September last 1 entered the covered market,
'tire quantity of the Belladonna Lilies on sale was
truly surprising, and they were of unusually intense
colour. Other hardy flowers included Dahlias,
Asters, and diverse herbaceous species. The Pears,
<i rapes, Figs, aud Melons to be had were excellent.
Subsequently, when passing through the town, my
attention was drawn to some Orchids in flower in
the window of a shop in Beresford Street. Upon
inquiry, I was informed they were grown at the
I osarean Nursery, St. Saviour's, to which I was
afterwards accompanied by the proprietor, Mr.
H. Becker.

C This nursery has been entirely remodelled by Mr.
Becker since giving up the Imperial Nursery, the
famous spot where the late Mr. ('. B. Saunders
grew so many of the large Pears that years ago
made Jersey specially famous for this luscious
fruit. When the Cesarean Nurseries were taken
over, many of the pyramidal and bush fruit-trees
were moved from the Imperial Nursery and planted
at the new place. When firmly established, these
and many other trees will doubtless produce fruits
equal to any that have been gathered in days gone
by. It may appear incredible, but for one fruit of
Belle de Jersey Pear Mr. Becker has many times
received the sum of 10*. and even 15s. The care
bestowed upou the fruit-trees is evident. The
summer shoi toning of laterals is duly performed,
and the centre of the trees are kept sufficiently
open to admit the necessary air and sunshine, and
when the fruit is set in the spring every encourage-
ment is given to the trees by the application of
manures, either as a liquid or as top-dressings.
Careful thinning is done, that no ill-formed °or
inferior fruits may remain. In September, when
many of the fruits are well advanced, numbers of
them are protected from the ravages of birds aud
wasps by being enclosed in muslin bags. Similar
methods are practiced all over the island.

One's first impressions of Mr. Becker's nursery
are agreeable. A broad walk runs right through
the grounds, and it is spanned by many arches,
which are covered with freely-growing climbers.
The land is divided by Privet and Yew hedges.
Near to the centre of the nursery is a large dwell-
ing-house, which was then in the hands of the
builder, though a part was in use as an office and
storehouse for bulbs, rendered necessary by the
Daffodil industry. Here Mr. Becker has in con-
templation the establishing of a school of horti-
culture, in some respects similar to those on the
Continent. Rooms are being built for a number
of young men, who will be taken as apprentices to
obtain a thorough knowledge of plant and fruit
culture as practised in Jersey. The island is
capable of producing a greater quantity of fruit
than it has hitherto done.

Immense quantities of Tomatos aud Melons are
grown here, and the produce shipped to the main-
land. Tomatos, naturally, succeed very well out
of doors here, but there are houses devoted to them
also. A favourite variety is "The Cropper," aud
its name is a good one, as it is free in setting, pro-

000

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April S, 1809.

duces large clusters of medium-sized fruits, and
bears well to the top of the plants, occasionally
S feet high. The vineries are especially good. A
house originally filled with Muscats of Alexandria
now accommodates an equal number of Vines of
that variety and Appley Towers. No fire-heat is
applied to the house, still excellent results are
obtained. The varieties Appley Towers and Muscat
of Alexandria Mr. Becker intends to grow more
largely, but Black Hamburgh and Gros Colmarwill
not suffer neglect. It is wonderful how well Vines
succeed in Jersey, seeing that in many instances
no preparations whatever are made when the
canes are planted, beyond the simple building of
a house and the planting of the Vines in the ground
outside. But the roots are subsequently afforded
repeated applications of stable-manure or chemical
foods.

Of Orchids grown by Mr. Becker may be
mentioned Dendrobium YVardianum and D. nobile,
Cattleyas Harrisoni, violacea, Gaskelliana, and
Meudeli ; Coelogyne cristata, Ckysis aurea, Odon-
toglossum citrosmura, Epidendrum vitellinum
major, Oncidium Lanceauum, Cypripediums insigne,
barbatum, and leucorrhodum. All of these have
proved useful for the supply of cut-flowers. The
Red Currant Comet, &c. (figured in Gardeners'
Chronicle, 1806, Vol. xx., p. 137), I noticed in some
quantity. The growth of the bushes is unusually
strong and distinct, and the crop of fruit and length
of the bunches is said to be astonishing.

In the grounds of the nursery were large quan-
tities of Abies Pinsapo, A. nobilis, and A. Nord-
manuiana, Green and Golden-leaved Euonymus iu
ten thousands, and standard and dwarf Rose-trees
are features of the out-of-doors department.

A number of German and Italian prunes are
being cultivated, which it is hoped may prove
remunerative. The trees are very vigorous, and Mr.
' Becker has hopes of their ultimate success. If
these should be capable of producing fine ripe
fruits in September, the season of choice Plums
would be considerably lengthened. From a Special
( 'orrexpondent.

A

EECENTLY - CERTIFICATED
APPLE.

Ix our present issue we take the opportunity to
illustrate a variety of Apple that was given an
award by the Fruit and Vegetable Committee of
the Royal Horticultural Society on March 14.
Allen's Everlasting (fig. S3), is a fairly old
variety, of about medium size and regular outline.
The large and open eye is set in a moderately
deep basin, while the slender stalk, rather
more than half an inch loug, is also set in a wide
and deep cavity. In colour, the fruit is green,
with bnt few streaks of red, but the green becomes
yellowish as the fruits ripen. Primarily a dessert
Apple of rich flavour, it is also a good kitchen fruit,
and keeps well until June. The award, now
somewhat tardily given, was a First-class Certificate,
the specimens being shown on that occasion by
Mr. J. Masterton, Weston House Gardens,
Shipston-ou-Stour. The fruits we have figured
were kindly supplied us by Messrs. Geo. Bunyard
& Co., Maidstone. It may be interesting to add
that there were thirteen dishes of this variety
exhibited at the Apple Congress, held at Chiswick,
in 1883.

SOCI ETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

/■,..»/.• II. .1. Veitch, Esq., in the Chair; Dr. Miiller,
Rev. W. Wilks, Rev. <:. Henslow, Hon. Sec. ; Visitor, Mr.
Lees.

// tfSapin a Sycamon during Frost.' Mr. T. R. Brace,

The Old Garrsop, New Galloway, sent the following commu-
nication :— " I noticed icicles hanging on a newly-cut branch
during the whole of last week, and steadily increasing.
although the mean temperature of the week was only 30

The mean temperature of March 24 was only 257°. The
cut-braneh would be about half-an-inch in diameter, and some
pounds weight of icicles, or pints of sap, have flowed out
during the week, and it still continues to flow. The maxi-
mum and minimum temperatures were as follows :— 19th,
■12 ■:.'. 21" ; 20th, -t-J'.v, 23° ; 21st, 38-5*, l"i ; 22nd, 3s", 21-5 ;
23rd, 37-5', 21 -5"; 24th, 40°, 11-5°; 25th, 43 23°. "

Aberrant Foj ms of Narcissus. — Mrs. F. M. Cooper sent some
flowers— partly fasciated, partly double, and with coherent
rvaries, &c., not unusual sports under cultivation.

Carnations and Chrysanthemums attacked by insects, t£c. —
Mr. Lees, of Trent Park, New Barnet, exhibited specimens of
Pinks and Chrysanthemums, which were forwarded to Mr.
McLachan and Mr. Michael for examination.

Hybrid Narcissi. — With regard to the spontaneous hybrid
sent to the meeting on March 14 by Rev. C. Wolley-Dod, Mr.
Henslow stated that the pollen was unite shrivelled and
probably useless, as Mr. Wolley-Dod had found to be the case
with other hybrid Narcissi, He sent also a spontaneous
hybrid between N. triandrus and the Daffodil. The pollen of
this also proved quite effete. lie also sent flowers of -N.
Johnstoui, a supposed species intermediate between
N. triandrus and the Daffodil, but it resembled the latter much
more closely than the one mentioned above, as the corona
was almost exactly that of the Daffodil, but of a paler yellow.
The pollen proved to be very bad, but still many grains were
apparently .quite perfect. Mr. Wolley-Dod says that "it is

followed, in which the question of massing gave rise to much
controversy and difference of opinion.

Mr. Stanton-, of Taik Place Gardens, Henley-on-Thames,
exhibited some splendid heads of Sutton's Commodore Nutt
Lettuce, its compact appearance recommending it asa first-
rate variety for frame-work.

ffl

THE NURSERYMEN, MARKET GAR-
DENERS', AND GENERAL HAIL-
STORM INSURANCE CORPORA-
TION, LIMITED.

Milieu 27.— The fourth annual general meeting of the above
Corporation was held at Simpson's, Ltd., Strand, London, on
the above date. Mr. Harry .1. Veitch presided, and there
was a good attendance of shareholders. The Chairman gave
some interesting figures, showing the growth of the premium,
income, and business, as follows : —

Year 1S'.>5-G: — Policies in force, 235 J premium income,
£681 1«. '.'■'. ; square feet covered, 10,408,161 ; value insured,
6135,215 IBs. : claims paid, £288 17s. id.

Year 1896-7 : — Policies in force, 346; premium income,
£389 lis. :»/. ; square feet covered, 13,886,095 ; value insured,
£179,366 lis. Id. ; claims paid, nil.

Yeai 1897-8 :— Policies in force, 550; premium income,

\

Kit;. 83. — DESSERT APPLE, "ALLEN'S EVERLASTING."

found in various forms, having established an independent
existence over large areas of Portugal and N.W.Spain." lie
adds thai ii has never been known to seed. The varietj senl
is called "Queen of Spain," and is the mosl abundant.

PEOPLES PALACE HORTICUL-
TURAL.

Maroh 25.— The East End amateur gardeners made an
excellent display, Mir season considered, on the above date.

Hyacinths, in collections ofsixand three, and Hi1 i
for plants of different ''"Inured varieties, as well as three bulbs
in a pot, brought a most creditable display; and tin- same
may be said of Narcissi and Tulips. Not less praiseworthy
were the pots of Polyanthus Narcissi, ami single and double
trumpet varieties. It was just a little early for the Tulips,
still some very good blooms were staged. There were collec-
tions of flowering plants, chief among them Azaleas, Cine-
rarias, Ilichai'dias, &e. ; and collections of foliage-plants were
remarkably good.

i ,<. ; square feet covered, 20,098,104; value insured,
£263,590 L9*. Id. ; claims paid, £1532 17*. 5d,
year 189S-9 :— Policies in force, 740; premium income.

( L736 0*. 6d. ; square feet covered, 25,619,760 ; value insured,
£343, 139 7s. Srf. ; claims paid, nil.

The working expenses had been reduced from £40 10*. 3d.
per cent, of the income in 1895-96 to £22 9s. per pent, in
L89S 9 I The whole of the cost of formation of the corporation
( £399 Is. 4.;.), and of furniture (£40 7$. 8d.), has been written
off. £650 had been set aside as reserve for unexpired risks.
The report was unanimously agreed to, as was the recommen-
dation of directors, that a dividend of 5 per cent, for tin-
year, and a bonus of 5 per cent, be paid, and that £200
be placed to the reserve fund, and the balance carried
forward. At an extraordinary general meeting, held imme-
diately after the annual general meeting, it was resolved that
a hut her issue of 5000 shares of £5 each be made at a premium
of 4*. per share, and that £14*. be called up between now
and June l, lsi'1,'. This will make the subscribed capital
£50,000, and the paid up capital £10,000. The premiums on
new issue will go to the reserve fund.

READING GARDENERS'.

March 27.— At the fortnightly meeting, on the above date
" The Arrangements of Hardy Plants In the Garden " was the
subject Of a lecture given by Mr. ALEXANDER Wrtoht, Of
Falkland Park Gardens, South Norwood.

Mr. Wrighl pointed out that no branch of gardening was so
Important as that of the arrangement of plants in gardens,
and as it was such a large question, he would treat ii
Under three headings, viz. :— First, Trees; second, Shrubs ;
third. Herbaceous and Alpine Plants and Bulbs.

Practical hints were given aa to the arrangement ol varie
ties, harmony of colour, and positions most suitable for
planting. The system of "massing ' was recommended in
place of that of "dotting," and of making selections of
plants instead of collections, A very animated discussion

ISLE OF WIGHT.

April 1.— The Isle of Wight Horticultural Improvement
Association held their third annual non-competitive exhi-
bition of Daffodils and spring flowers at Ventnor on the
above date.

I ■■■!'■ ■ Caster time, the local gardeners, unfortunately,
could not render the assistance which they wished, bul still
the standard of excellence reached in the previous year was

well maintained, and Messrs. BARR A: SONS showed 200 vases

of Narcissus, thus affording the gardeners of the island a
standard at which to aim iu the cultivation of Narcissus
The Isle of Wight is a place admirably suited for the cultiva-
tion of these lovely spring flowers.

The chief exhibitors were Messrs. W. W. Sheath, W.
Russell, A. J. Cole, c. Smith, w. S. Barnes, and G.

HONEVBOORNE,

April 8, 1S99.]

THE GAB DENE US' CII1WNICLE.

223

The term "accumulated temperature Indicates the aggregate
amount, as wellas the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42" Fahr. for the period named; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees — a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

Rainfall.

Brioht
Bdw.

Accumulated.

§

S3

8 2

— a>

O OJ .

is

Si »

■— ■ +3

u u,
o

a

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CM

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1

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3a

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• s §

> O fl

o
rt « cj

S.SS

-*^ £

> £ s

s e s

§ -
'3 *"*
o a

i) o

3

Day-
deg.

Day-

deg.

Day-
deg.

Day-
deg.

lOtlis
Inch.

Ins.

0

2 +

17

16

+ 17

- 32

17 +

GO

i

23

i

2 +

31

17

+ W

- 11

7 +

5S

S-4

19

2''

9

3 +

38

10

+ 03

- 84

it aver

48

3

14

2S

8

S +

4'.i

6

+ 100

_ 145

1 -

46

4-.:

22

■1

0 +

53

1

+ 112

- 10::

1 -

44

7-1

22

34

G

5 +

52

0

+ 188

- 151

3 -

I

6-0

28

3{

e

4 +

82

0

+ 30

- 46

IS +

57

13-3

17

20

7

5 +

41

0

+ 112

- los

2 +

51

in

26

32

s

5 +

55

0

+ 121

- 99

3 -

48

12-4

26

30

9

0 +

52

0

+ 57

- 45

4 +

62

ii-ii

18

31

[0

7 +

70

0

+ 88

- 33

2 +

51

12'.

20

33

'

4 +

r.4

0

+ 222

- 59

4 -

48

s-i

:::,

41

The districts indicated by number iu the lirst column are
i he Fallowing :—

0, Scotland] N. Principal Wheat-producing Districts—
1, Scotland, E. ; 2, England, N.E. ; S, England, E. ;
4, Midland Counties ; 6, England, including London, S.
Frinrifutl ffraffinff, (Cc, Districts — 6, Scotland, W. ;
7, England, N.W. ; S, England. S.W. ; 9, Ireland, N. ;
10, Ireland, S. ; * Channel Islands.

THE PAST WEEK.

THE following summary record of the weather throi
tin? British Islands for the week ending April 1, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office : —

"The weather during this period was mild, and unsettled
very generally, with frequent and considerable falls of rain in
the wrsi and north, and occasional slight falls in the more
southern and eastern parts <if the kingdom.

" The temperatun was above the mean, the excess ranging
from 2° in 'Scotland. N., and E.,* to 6° in the 'Midland
Counties,' ami 'Ireland, N.,' and to 7" in 'Ireland, S.1 The
highest of the maxima were recorded, as a rule, on April j,
and ranged from 66' in 'England, S.,' and 65' in the ' Midland
Counties,' and 'England, S.W.,' to 57 in 'Scotland, W.' The
lowest of the minima were registered on the 26th, when they
ranged fmm 20" in 'Scotland, N. and E.,* and 29° in ' England,
E.,' to 40° in the 'Channel Islands,' and 41° in ' Ireland, s.1

"The rainfall greatly exceeded the mean in Scotland,
especially in the. west and north, and to a lesser extenl over
Ireland and in ' England, N.W.,' but in almost all the English
districts the fall was less than the normal.

"The bright swnshine was deficient in nil parts of the
kingdom, the percentage of the possible duration ranging
from 35 in the 'Channel Islands,' and from j ; in 'Eng-
land, N.W. and S.W.,' to 14 in 'Scotland, N., and
'England, N.E.-"

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. Robkrt Galbraith, for the last five years Gardener to
Ed. Martin, Esq., at Heathfield, Wimbledon, S.W., as
Gardener and Overseer to Alex. Wylie, Esq., .M.I'..
Cordale, Renton, N.B.

Mr. W. Henry Cork, as Gardener to Captain Grassiot, K.X.
Hampton Lodge, Seale, Parnham, Surrey.

Mr. William Williams, late Gardener at Guilsborough
Grange, as Gardener to C. E. Paget, Esq., Great Hough-
ton House, Northampton.

Mr. G. E. Moorman, as Gardener to Lieut-Col. Gaskell,
Rose Leigh, Woolton, Liverpool.

Mr. W. Dearling, for four years Foreman in Messrs. HX'GH
Low ft Co.'s nurseries, Clapton, as Gardener to P. II.
Johnston, Esq., Green Bank, Plumbley, near Knutsford.

Mr. George Impett, formerly General Foreman at Tongswood,
Ilawkhurst, as Head Gardener to W. C. Crippr, Esq.,
The Lawn, Camden Park, Tunbridge Wells.

Mr. John Gossweilf.r, Assistant in the Garde. i Department,
Hyde Park, has been appointed by the Portuguese
Government to take charge of the Government Gardens
in the province of Angola,

Markets.

• ■-—
COVEXT GARDEN, APRIL G.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.1
Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Pricks.

Fruit.— Averaqe Wholesale Prices
s. d. s. d.

s. d. s. d

s. d. s. d.

Arbor Vitre, p. doz

12 0-36 0 Ferns, small, per

Aspidistras, p, doz

18 0-3(3 0 100

4 0- 6 0

— spei imen, eacl

5 0-10 0 Ficus elastica, each

10-50

Dracaenas, various

Foliage plants, var.,

per doz

12 0-30 0 each " ',

1 0- fi 0

— viridis, p. doz.

9 0-18 0 Lycopodiums, doz.

3 0-40

Euonymus, various

Marguerite Daisy,

per dozen

6 0-18 0

6 0-80

Evergreens, in var.,

Myrtles, per doz....

6 0-90

per dozen

6 0-24 C

Palms, various, ea.

1 0-15 0

Ferns, in variety

1 — specimens, ea.

21 0-03 0

per dozen

4 0-12 C

Scarlets, per doz.

6 0-80

Cut Flowers

&c— Av

erage Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s, d

s. d, s. d.

Anemones, dozen

Marguerites, p. doz

bunches

1 6- 2 f

bunches

4 0-50

Arum Lilies, dozen

Maidenhair Fern,

blooms

4 0- 6 C

tier doz. hunches

6 0-90

Asparagus "Fern,'

Mignonette, per

bunch

2 0- 3 C

"ii bunches ..

Azalea, white, 12

Narcissus, White, p

bunches

3 0- 4 r

dozen bunches ..

16-20

Azalea mollis, per

Orchids, per dozen

dozen bnuclies ..

6 0- 0 t

blooms

0 0-12 0

Bouvardias, per nun

. 0 4-Ot

Pelargoniums, doz.

Camellias, per doz.

bunches

4 0-00

blooms

1 6- -J '

— scarlet, per doz.

Carnations, per doz.

bunches

6 0- S 0

blooms

1 0- 3 (

Roses (indoor), pei

i iaffodilS) doz. bun.

2 6- 4 1

dozen

1 6- 2 0

Eucharis, per dozen

:; 0- 4 1

— Pink, per dozen

4 0- G 0

Gardenias, per doz.

4 0- 8 C

— Tea, whil

< leranlum, Scarlet,

■'

2 0-30

per dOZ. bunches

— I'eile. per doz.

1 0- 2 0

Hyacinths, Roman,

— Safrano, p. doz.

1 6- 2 0

i : doz, bunches

i o- r. i

Sinilax, per bunch

2 0- 8 n

.Ion, puis, doz. bun.

1 0- 2 0

Tuberoses, 12 Dims,

0 8- 1 0

Lilium Inngiflorum,

Tulips, per dozen...

0 6-13

per dozen

6 0-90

Violets, per dozen

Lily of the Valley,

bunches

0 6- 1 0

dozen bunches ...

6 0-10 0

— Parma, bunch

2 0- 2 0

Vegetables

. — A VERA

^.e Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s. d.

S. d. s. d.

Artichokes, Globe,

Mint, new, forced,

per doz.

•2 0- 3 0

per doz, bunch.,

— Jerusalem, per

ling to

sieve

1 6- 2 0

- •■ of bunches

6 0-1 o 0

— Btachys or

Onions, Egyptian,

■ je, lb..

0 4 —

cwt. bag ...

0 0- 0 6

Asparagus, Paris,

— English, cut...

-, 0 G 0

:

4 0- 5 0

— French, bags ..

t 0 i 6

— Giant, bundle..

10 0-12 0

— New3 bunches.

4 (I- ", o

— Toulouse

3 C- 4 0

— Valencia, < ases

9 6-10 0

— Barcelona

1 G- 1 9

— picklers, sieve

2 0-

— Italian bundles

l <;- l si

Parsley, per dozen

4 0- :. 0

— Spanish, bund.

1 5- 1 !'

— sieve

1 6- 5 M

— Sprue

o 9 —

Parsnips, per dozen

0 8- 0 9

— English, per 100

4 0-50

— cwt. bags

.*. 6

Beans, ln.vfs., Chan-

Teas, Channel Is-

nel Islands, lb.

0 9 —

lands, in handle

English, lb.

0 8- l 0

baskets, lb. ...

1 3- 1

Long Pods,

— Frame Teh

Inflate

3 \j —

phone, lb. ...

1 6- 1 9

— Madeira, bkt.

2 6-36

— French Hats

5 0 —

Bee1 ts, per

Potatos, Snowdrops,

dozen

0 6-09

Up - to - Date,

— busied

2 0-30

&c., per ton ...

55 0-9fi 'i

Broccoli Sprouts,

— New Algerian

per bushel

3 6 —

Kidneys, cwt.

13 0-11 0

— bags

6 0 —

— — Frame,

Cabbage, tally

5 0-70

per lb

0 3-0 31

— Coleworts, per

— — Teneriffe,

bushel

3 0-40

per cwt.

10 0-14 0

< Jarroi j. new French,

Radishes, Round,

pec bunch

0S-10

breakfast, per

— washed, in bags

3 0 —

dozen bunches

0 0-09

— unwashed

2 0 —

— Long, per doz.

— Surrey,bunches

bunches

0 *- 1 0

doz

2 6 —

Rhubarb Natural,

— French flats ...

2 0 —

per dozen

.1 0- 5 0

Cauliflowers, per

— York, per doz.

dozen ...

1 6- 2 >:

bundles

■ ■

— Cornish, crates

S 0-10 0

Salad, small, pun-

Celeriac, per dozen

2 3-30

nets, per dozen

1 3 —

Celery, Red, dozen

Scotch Kale, bushel

3 6-50

bundles ... 8 0- 12 0

Seakale, per dozen

Chicory, per lb. ...

0 4 —

punnets ... 10 0-11 0

Cress, doz. punnets

16 —

Shallots, per cwt... 18 0 —

Cucumbers, per doz.

2 6-40

Spinach, French,

Endive, French, per

crates

3 6- 5 0

dozen ..

2 0 —

Tomatos, new

Garlic, per lb.

0 3 —

English, per lb.

1 0 —

Horseradish, New

— Canary, boxes..

2 0-36

English, bundle

2 6 —

Turnips, Eng., per

— — loose per

doz. bunches ...

3 0-40

doz., fine

1 9 -

— in bags

3 6 —

— Foreign, per

— New French, p.

bundle..

13 — i

bunch

0 8-0 10

Leeks, doz. bunch.

2 0 —

Turnip-Tops, bag ...

S 6- 1 0

Lettuce, Cos, per

— bushel ...

2 0 —

doz

8 6- 4 0

Watercress; p. doz.

— Cabbage, dozen

10-19

bunches

0 7 —

Mushrooms, house,

Yams from Canaries,

per lb

os — l

case

6 0 -

Apples, Beefings,

per bushel ... 5 0-80

— T a s in a n i a n

cases, French

Crab, New

Turk Pippin,

Stunners ,

Prince Bis-
marck, &c,

per cases ..

Crabs, bush.

large cookers,

cases

— Nova Scotia

Russets ami
N"ii parie 1
per barrel .

— Calif orn ian

Newtowus,
New York
Pippins, &c
per case

Bananas, per bunch

Cobnuts, per 100 lb. 32 0 -

Cranberries, Ameri-
can, box ... 11 0 —

— Russian, kegs... 10 —
Pigs, per dozen .. 5 0-10 u

12 0-18 0

SO-SO

9 0 —

ID 0-2:1 0

11 0-15 0
' 0-1IJ 0

8. d. s. d.
Grapes, GrosCoImar 4 6- 5 6

— Almicra, iloz.lb. lr. 0-18 0

— Belgian A., lb. 4 0-40

— Belgian H., lb. 8 0 8 6

— Belgian C , lb. 1 li-1 10

— Cape, large
cases, Black &

White, is lb. 18 0-20 0
Lemons, per case... 8 0-15 0
Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 lb.
Oranges, Jatla,

cases

— Denia, case of

420

— Tangii rine, per

hundred

— Blooil, L'SS

— Valencia

— Seville Bitter,

per case
Pears, Californian,

case Easter

Beurre ... 10 n-ir, 0

Pines, St. Mich.,

each ... 2 0-40

Strawberries, per

lb. ... I n ,ii

— Seconds ... 2 0-30

16 —

12 0-13 0

15 0 —

0 —
0 —
14 0-21 0

50 -

T, iTATi IS.

Saxons, Snowdrops, Maincrops, &c, r,-,<. to 75s. perton;
Dp-to-date, 80s. to 90s. dp. : Dunbar Maincrops, S5s. to 95 '
Seed in variety. Join B»(ft,S3<l 84, Wellington Slrect, II". r.

Remarks.— The new consignments of Tasmanjan Apples

appear in g 1 idition, fresh and healthy; home-grown

Apples are now practically over ; Oranges are i ng to hand

wastoy, some very bad; this week, I think, will finish the
French Apples, which have been coming veryg 1. Aspa-
ragus n now arriving in variety, both as to size of heads
and quality, also size or bundles, which vary isiderably.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

Oi

■| isoofl ■ .I,.'' 5.— The following are the averages of the
prices recorded sfnee our last report: -Lemons, Btl. to Is.
pei do ''ii ; Nuts, Cobs, Id. to Sd. per lb. ; Prunes, n '. to St.,
do ; Apples, Canadian Spy, II-. In 18 . pel barrel ; Western
State Russets, 18s. to 20-'. do. ; Oranges, id. to Sd. por dozen ;
Grapes, home, 2s. to 4-. 6d. per lb ; do., foreign, r.,1. do. ;

T it"-, Guernsey, Id. to Sd. per lb. ; do., Scotch, :../. to Sd'.

do , Parsnips, 5a per ewt. j Leeks, Is. Sd. to c. per <1 n

bunches; green Mint, 8d. per lb. bunch; Onions, 4«. 6d, to
5s. per cwt. ; do., Portugal, 10s. to 13s. Od. per case ; Carrol
2-. 9d. to i. '-'. per cwt.; Cucumbers, 4s. 6d. to 6 pei
dozen; Lettuces, round, is. Cd. per dozen; Radishes, Is. Gd.
per dozen bunches; Horseradish, Is. Od to Is. per bundle;

Mushrooms, Is, to Is. 3d. per lb.; Beeti s, 6d. to "d. per

dozen; Mustard and Cress, 3d. pei punnet; Turnips, ! I
per d-i en large bunches; Broccoli, 2». to 2s. 6d. pei do n
Seakale, Is. 9d. to 2s. per bush ; Celery, i . to it. per bunch.

Liverpool; April 5. — Wholesali Vegetabh Market. —
Potatos, per cwt., Maincrop, 3s. 4'/. to 4-. ; Bruce, 3s. .':-/. to
;-:-. Od. ; Champion, 2s. In.', to 3s. 4-/. : Turnips, sd. to Is. i er
dozen bunches; do., Swedes, l . Id. to Is. id. per cwt."
Carrots, 3s. <'■■'. to !-. Sd. do. ; Parsley, IOd. to I- per dozen
Dunches; Onions, English, 7s. to 7s. 6d. per cwt.; do.;
oreign, 2s. 9d. to 4>\ do.; Cucumbers, 3s. to 4s. 6d. per
dozen; Cauliflowers, Is. 9d. to 2s. Od. per dozen; Cabbages

IOd. to 2s. do. St. John's.— Potatos, IOd. to 1«. per | i

do., new, 2d. to 6d. per pound; Grapes, foreign, 8d. to

Is. per lb.; Pines, English, 5S. to 6s. each; Peas, 8d. per

pound: Cub-mits, 8d. do.; Asparagus, Is. to Is. 3d. pei
bundle ; Cucumbers, 5.?. to od. eacli ; Mushrooms, Is. 6d. pel
pound, and Is. Sd. per basket. Birkenhead.— Potatos, 8d. to
IOd. per peck ; do., new, 2./. to 4d. per pound ; Peas, 6d. do. ;
Cucumbers, Id. to Sd. each; Grapes, English, 2s. to 8s. Od.
pei pound; do., foreign, 6d. to IOd. do. ; Mushrooms, Is. to
.. per pound.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the
week ending April 1, and for the corresponding period of
1897, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

Description.

1S98.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

s. d.

35 3

s. d.
24 11

s. d.

- HI 4

Barley „

27 11

20 2

- 1 9

Oats

17 10

10 11

- 0 11

SEEDS.

Lo dok ; Api tl 5,— Messrs. John Sl.uv & Sons, Seed Mer-
chants, of Great Maze Pond, Boroughj London, S.E., write
thai i i clay's seed market -was poorly attended, with but a
small business doing. Buyers, just now, are acting with
extreme rant ion, the orders they send up being much smaller
than is usual at this stage of the season, Meanwhile, quota
tions all round stand at the low level previously noted.
Germany is still taking American Red from London. For
Tins the sale is slow. There is no important alteration in

224

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April S, 1899.

Birdseeds, and Mustard and Rape-seed keep firm. Some
choice new Scarlet Runners are now obtainable c.n very
tempting terms. Blue Peas and Haricot Beans are held for
late rates.

Action of Frost on Leaves of Arum

MACULATUM. — Passing through Knowle Park a
few days since, our attention was attracted
by the bright yellow tips of the still convo-
lute leaves of Arum maculatum just pushing
above ground. On closer examination, it was
found that the extreme tips were brown and dry,
presumably from the action of frost on the growing
point ; the upper portion of the leaf below the
extreme tip, and about as far back as the middle,
was of a rich golden yellow, and the base deep
green. It would seem, therefore, that whilst the
extreme tip was killed outright, the formation of
chlorophyll was arrested in the centre, and the base
unhurt by frost, was of its usual rich green colour.

JAPANESE PLUMS.— According to a bulletin
published by the New York Cornell Station, Mr.
L. H. Bailey considers that Japanese Plums are
adapted to a much wider range in the United States
than are varieties of the domestic type. The
Japanese Plums are particularly desirable for
earliness, great productiveness, almost complete
freedom from black knot and leaf blight, for long
keeping qualities, and beauty of fruit. In quality,
however, they are inclined to be inferior to the
domestic varieties. If for New York late-bloom-
ing varieties should be selected, and little damage
need then be feared from frost.

MORE Open Spaces. — Over a hundred years
since, in the rear of Guy's Hospital, there existed
a "God's Acre" of some repute; it was truly a
place for the dead— for the "crunchers" of the
period— surrounded, as it was, by open sewers and
ditches, this plot fostered disease, and so helped
to break down life. To-day it is turned into a
place for building up healthy bodies, and every
promise given that the rising generation of that
ilk shall have in it some of the best thews and
sinews on that side of the Thames. Obnoxious as
a place for the dead, this spot was transformed
into a builders-yard, but it occurring to some that
the place was emineutly fitted for a recreation-
ground, that local authorities aud County Council
set to work, and on Thursday, March 30, the Nelson
Recreation Ground was thrown open amid the
cheers of a happy crowd of expectant children. A
week or two since, a triangular plot at the junction
of Exmouth Street and Rosebery Avenue was given
to the locality by the County Council. It was a
"remainder over" from a long desired metro-
politan improvement, and already gives every
evidence of being thoroughly appreciated by those
for whom it was set apart.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Ii.ii.L. W. Kelsey, 150, Broadway, New York, U.S.A.—
Hardy Trees and Plants.

W. Gooduffe, M.A., Cambridge Nurseries, Northcourt Road.
Worthing — Plants and Bulbs.

.1. Cheal & Sons, Lowfleld Nurseries, Crawley, Sussex-
Dahlias, Chrysanthemums, Carnations, Violas, &c.

.1 C. 1'issot et Cie., 31, Rue des Bourdonnais, Paris— Horti-
cultural Appliances.

Annuals and Perennials Suitable for a
London Garden: ,S'. S. F. If the garden
enjoys a fair amount of air and sunshine, the
following will succeed and afford flowers as
long as annual plauts endure. Asters in great
variety, especially the Crown, Cocardeau, Pffiony-
fiowered, and Trutlaut's pyramidal ; Zinnias ;
both tall aud drawf ; Salpiglossis, Balsams,
Celosias iu variety, Amaranthus caudatus,
Castor-oils, German tenweek, East Lothian
intermediate, and numbers of new varieties of

Stocks ; Sweet Sultan, in three colours ; Petunias,
Nicotiana affinis, Didiscus cceruleus. The above
should be raised in a hot-bed having a night
temperature of 60° to 62", and one by day of 70°,
with air afforded. Hardy annuals for sowing on
the open border may consist of such of the
following as may be suitable to the size of the
borders. Acroclinium, double and single flowered
vars. ; Arabis albida, A. alpina, Bartonia aurea,
Brachycome ibcridifolia, Calandrinia in var ,
Calendula officinalis Meteor, Sulphur Crown
and others ; Coreopsis, many vars., dark crimson,
yellow, brown, &c. ; Candytuft in var., Lobel's
Catchfly, Chrysanthemum cariuatum, C. coro-
uatum, C. tricolor, Burridgeianum, and others ;
Clarkias in var., Collinsias, Dianthus diade-
matus, D. Heddewigi, and others ; Eschscholzia
californica, E. crocea, E. Mandarin, &c. ; Eutoca
viscida, Godetias in var., Lavatera trimestris,
Larkspurs iu var., Malva moschata, Meconopsis
cambrica, Myosotis (Forget-me-not) various ;
Mignouette iu var., Nasturtiums, tall aud dwarf ;
Poppies in much variety, besides perennial
species; Sweet Peas, mixed or separate varieties ;
Tagetes pumila, and T. Golden Ring ; Virginian
Stock.
Celery for Stewing : E. H. The best would be
a variety that possessed short, thick sticks, say,
Crystal White, Sandringham White, or Col.
Clarke's Red. These varieties being compara-
tively dwarf, can be blanched to their full length
iu a short space of time after reaching full size.
Grow them in rich soil, aud never allow it to
lack water, and the sticks will be crisp and
' ' short. "
CUCUMBERS: /. L. Finding no traces of eelworms
on the roots sent, which, on the contrary, wero
quite normal, we must infer, from the appear-
ance of the fruit, that it is really an iustance of
" rust." This disfigurement of a Cucumber, or
a bunch of Grapes, may be brought about by
letting hot vapour impiuge on the skin, and also
by admitting frosty or very cold currents of air
to the forcing-house.
Dendrobiims: Veritas. All the Dendrobiums
you mention require a high temperature aud
much moisture from now onward until the
growths are completed, especially IX atro-
violaceum.
Diseased Cypripf.dium : /. D., Tooting. This is
another case of the root-disease of Orchids,
referred to in Gardeners' Chronicle, April, 1898,
p. '206. It also seems similar to specimens sent
by you previously, without roots [Gardeners'
Chronicle, .Inn.-, lS'.tS, p. 368). The roots have
dried up, and no longer do their work. A fungus
is present in the outer parts of the root, aud it
can be traced a short distance into the stems
along discoloured tracks. The blackening of the
leaves occurs chiefly on the younger ones, and
follows the larger veins ; this, we think, indicates
interference with the water supply, due to death
of the roots. The healthy appearance of the
older leaves indicates that the plants have started
all right, and that the root disease increased in
its effects later. The roots need attention, but
we do not know of any remedy which will not
harm the plants. It is significant that in this
and former cases we have seen, only siugle
plants amongst others go wrong ; the disease
does not seem to be epidemic, yet it is well to
isolate plants showing it.
Fkrn Case: »S'. S. F. The plants which grow with
the least amount of trouble to the cultivator are
Ferns, and you may also get colour amongst
them ; but as you desire something more showy,
you should grow the ornamental-leaved Begonias,
Euonymus japonicus, variegated variety ; Vinca
elegantissima, Phyllostachys Kumasasa — a dwarf,
slender Bamboo ; Bambusa pygmam, and B.
tessellata, 1 to 1£ feet; small Golden Privet,
&c.
Insects : R. Mason. The stick-like caterpillars
are those of the Willow Beauty, Boarmia rhom-
boidaria. They feed on a variety of trees and
shrubs. They conceal themselves in any conve-
nient sheltered place during the winter, and com-
mence feeding again with the first warm spring
days. As they feed by night, and either lie
beneath the branches or stretch themselves
straight out from a twig during the day, their
presence is usually only detected after some of
the leaves have been eaten. The moth is found
in June aDd July. — R. M. C. J. We are unable

at present to say with any degree of certainty
what these eggs are.

Japanese Maples: A. R. These are usually
worked on stocks of Acer polymorphum, home-
raised from stratified seed, or imported as plants.
The methods employed are side and whip-graft-
ing. These Maples can also be budded in
summer.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — E. J. H. Ceanothus
rigidus, Bo't. Mag., t. 4G64.— G. H. Please
address such communications in future to the
Editor. It is not an advertisement. 1,
Cupressus Lawsoniana, erect variety ; 2, Thuya
occidentalis var. ; 3, Libocedrus decurrens ; 4,
Thuya occidentalis ; 5, Thuya orientalis var. ; 6,
6, Tsuga Sieboldi. — J. R. 1, appears to be
Coelogyne cristata. Chatsworth variety ; 2, C c.
Lemoniaua, or that variety of it called inter-
media in some gardens. — /. P. D. 1, Cattleya
labiata Luddemannia»a ; 2 and 3, forms of
Cattleya labiata Schrodene. — ,/. D. A., Suffolk.
1, Dendrobium aggregatum ; 2, Deudrobium
chrysotoxum ; 3, not found; 4, Dendrobium
Pierardi ; 5, Dendrobium fimbriatum oculatum.
— W. T. A very pretty variety of Odontoglos-
sum x AVilckeanum, a natural hybrid between O.
crispum and O. luteo-purpureum. You are very
fortunate to secure it among imported O. crispum.
— One in Doubt. 1, Libonia floribunda ; 2,
Acacia armata ; 3, send when in flower ; 4,
Dioscorea illustrata ; 5, Datura species, send
when iu flower ; (J, Pilea muscosa.

Orchids, Various: Orchid. The Odontoglossum
Hallii xanthoglossum is a good variety ; the
spotted O. crispum a remarkable variety, worthy
of care ; Dendrobium flowers are rather small,
but the number of blooms on the pseudo-bulb
may account for that. If the Dendrobium nobile
sent as nobilius is true, it is not grown to per-
fection. The flowers of Lycaste Skinneri are
good, and represent distinct varieties. The Den-
drobium, suggested to be D. Griflithianum,
seems to be D. chrysotoxum. The others are all
good of their kind.

Potted Peach-trees Casting their Leaf-buds.
C. X. M. The deprivation of the trees of the
accustomed open-air moisture since they were
placed under glass, or dryness of the soil from
insufficient application of water, may be contri-
buting causes. The balls should be turned out
and examined, and if they are found to be dry,
it would be prudent to return them to the pots,
and immerse the latter in water for a quarter of
an hour. Loamy, firm soil, when ouce it has got
into a dry state, is difficult to moisten without
immersion.

Vine Splitting : T.N. The heat from the kitchen
chimney may have dried up the lately-planted
Vine, and the splitting is due to that cause. It
is probably past recovery.

Wellingtonia : (?. H. Without knowing more
as to the local conditions, subsoil, drainage, &c,
we cannot tell what is amiss with your trees.
We find neither insect nor fungus on the speci-
men sent. The ill-health of the trees may be
due to a water-logged soil, to injurious sub-
stances in excess in the soil, or to its poverty.
If the first, draining off the surplus water by
means of ditches, 3 to 4 feet deep, made at 25 to
35 feet apart, or covered drains of that depth
consisting of 1 to 1^ feet of stones covered
with first, sods, and then the staple. If it is the
last, poverty of the soil, it can be improved
with leaf-mould, loam, aud decayed peat, ap-
plied as a top dressing over the roots.

Communications Received. - Barr & Sons.— C. B. P. —
R. W. A., Johannesberg.-— J. H. H.— J. K. B., Utrecht.—
E. W. &.— W. G. S., Leeds.— E. C— W. Browne.— W. Swan.
—J. OB.— R. D.-S. A.— M. F.— A. D.— E. B.— W. E.—
.T. J. W.-F. Meyer.— A. H.— B. W.— J. Lowe.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks. —
R. W. A., Transvaal. -J. H. H., Trinidad.

Important to Advertisers. — The Publisher has

the satisfaction of announcing thai the circulation of the

" Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
vrice of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chnni-lc' circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners'
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and thai it is
preserved for reference in all the principal Libraries.

April 15, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

225

THK

(gardeners' (|Jtrmtide

No. 642.— SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 1899.

THE GARDEN AT HOLLAND
HOUSE.

THIS, the homo of the present Lord llchester,
of the famous Lady Holland of illustrious
memory, and of a number of persons distin-
guished in our annals, stands in a park of about
2(1(1 acres, situated between the Uxbridge Road
on the north, and Kensington High Road on
the south. The mansion stands on elevated
ground some 400 yards distant from the latter
road. The builder has been busy on the west
and east sides, but this notwithstanding, the
privacy of the grounds is well maintained by the
close screen of ancient Elms and other large trees
which form the boundary, and which on the
eastern side assume the form of an avenue to
the approach-road from the entrance-lodge to
the mansion. In the immediate neighbourhood
of the latter the trees form almost a wood, and
the seclusion is perfect. It may be remarked
by the visitor that provision is continually being
made for the future by the planting of suitable
trees of large growth wherever there is a chance
of their succeeding.

We extract from an account of Holland
House that appeared in these pages in the
issue of July 5, 1881, from the pen of that
pleasant writer, the late H. Evershed, the
following particulars : —

"The original manor of the De Veres consisted
of 500 acres, but more than three-fifths of this
wide space have now been built upon. The site
of Little Holland House, worth C20,0(l0 per acre,
has been long since devoted to the crop which at
Kensington exceeds all others in profit. The area
of the kitchen garden between the house and
Addison Road has been considerably diminished
by the erection of a good house, called Oak Lodge,
whose ample and ornamental grounds occupy, it is
said, the site of the old Manor House, with its
moats, or studponds, and of the monastery. Tho
name Addison Road speaks for itself. That of
Melbury Road was derived from the name of Lord
Ilchester's chief seat in Dorsetshire."

Lord llchester is a descendant of the eldest
son of the founder of the Fox family. The
house forms a square block, and the south is the
best side, being relieved with wings and arcades.
The walls of the house in some parts are
beautified by a chequer work of terra-cotta
plaques. The area, about half an acre imme-
diately in the front of the south side, originally
sloped, as does the rest of the land on that side
to the Kensington road, has been raised to a
dead level by building a retaining wall some
40 yards distant from the house, the enclosed
space being ornately treated, and the wall
embellished by Roses and climbing plants in
variety. Fig. 85, p. "27, shows the house on the
west side.

The Dutch garden on the west side (fig. 80,
p. 229) consists of an intricate design of flower-
beds and scroll-work in Box. The Box-plants are
said by Mr. Dixon, the present head-gardener,
not to have been relaid for 100 years, although
"mending" is occasionally found to be neces-
sary. What edging, therefore, can be better

than Box for a London garden ? The high
brick wall on the north side of this garden was
once covered with Plum, Poach, and Nectarine
trees, which, when, the air was less smoke-laden,
doubtless brought their fruits to perfection. In
front of this sunny wall the poet Rogers loved
to stroll.

The poet and the fruit-trees are now but a
memory, and in the place of the latter we
found a numberof uncommon flowering creepers,
more perhaps in keeping with modern ideas of
appropriateness. It will suffice to mention a
few of these exotics that endure our London
climate, and withstand ou? hard winters.
Physianthus (Arauja) albens grows freely and
bears fruit ; the Oriental Laburnum, Piptan-
thus nepalensis, and Olearia Haasti flower
profusely, as they do everywhere in the
London district ; Vitis orientalis, a species with
foliage very handsome in its autumn garb ;
V. purpurea, equally desirable as a plant for
covering a wall or an arbour ; Akebia quinata,
with its quaint, purple-brown flowers ; Ceanothus
(Hi 'ire de Versailles, one of the best, and fairly
hardy under slight protection ; C. Mario Le-
moine, a quite hardy variety, with pinkish
flowers ; Solanum jasminoides, which most
persons cultivate in the greenhouse, flowers
freely, although in some winters it gets cut, but
is never killed ; a variegated form of the Japan
Hop-plant, pretty as a variety ; Ware's hybrid
Passiflora ceerulea, differing but little, if at all,
from the type ; that old but recently resus-
citated Passiflora Constace Elliott, which has
white flowers, and Miihlenbeckia complexa, a
shrub that forms a tangle of black wire-like
brandies, and lias small orbicular leaves, grows
freely, notwithstanding the fact that it suffers
in severe winters. A most interesting wall.
There are many other plants tentatively planted,
of which it is yet too early to say much.

The bedding-plants in the Dutch parterre be-
spoke a love for the old rather than a prefer-
ence for the modern finer varieties of things,
and this did not seem at all inharmonious where
all around is associated with the past. The
beds just under the windows overlooking this
garden were laced over with low festoons of
Virginian Creeper — a quaint and pleasing idea.

Close by, a doorway in the creeper-covered
wall admitted us to the north lawn — a charming
space with a surface velvet-like and closely
shorn, and dotted at the margins with big trees,
and which, moreover, is not disfigured by any
walks ; in fact, there was none, excepting that
which skirts the mansion. What a treat to the
pedestrian used to rustic ways and green fields,
who is condemned to tread the stony streets of
the metropolis. At a distance of about 80 yards
from the wall afore-mentioned, there begins a
series of long beds cut in the turf, and spread
out like one's fingers, the turfen walks between
them being of a good width. This arrangement
is the very antithesis of the Dutch garden.

The beds are furnished with herbaceous
perennials, hardy bulbs, including many species
of Lilium, varieties of Roses, &c. Colonies of
one plant are preferred to small patches or
groups, and sometimes entire beds are filled
with one species, whilst others have several ; in
fact there reigns throughout a sort of orderly
confusion, the needs of each kind of plant
receiving suitable recognition ; and the plan
being carried out on a big scale, the effects in
the spring, summer, and autumn, must be very
satisfying.

Of beds planted with one or two species i if
plants, some were noted in which were Bamboos,
Epimediunis, Lilium croceuui, and L. dahuri-

cum ; golden-leaved Japanese Privet, and
Prunus Pissardi ; Roses, Caroline Testout and
La France, and the red variety of the latter
called "of 1889," which succeeds capitally ; and
Cistus Florentinus, which is quite hardy here,
whilst other species of Cistus are not, forms
good-sized shrubs. There were beds of Comp-
tonia asplenifolia— a nice shrub ; of M. Le-
moine's new varieties of Philadelphus (Syringa) ;
of Alstroemerias indifferent species, which aro
employed in conjunction with Lilies, the flower-
ing of the former forming a succession to the
latter. This struck us as being a happy combi-
nation, and the planting once properly done,
no disturbance of the bed is needed for several
years— in fact, is undesirable. A border of
mixed varieties of the Rose is backed with
plants of Helianthus flore-pleno Soleil d'Or, the
Roses consisting of Teas, H. P.'s, and others.

The avenues of certain kinds of plants form
a novel feature : for instance, there is one of
Weigelas ; another of the newest and best
varieties of scarlet-flowered Thorns ; another of
Pavias, and yet another of Mock Orange
(Philadelphus), and so on. It would appear
that more of this sort of planting is contem-
plated. The method of treatment is as follows :
a piece of hitherto wild ground is skimmed of
the turf, which is stacked on an adjacent spot,
so as to be handy for use when decayed. Tho
land is then well manured and dug, and seeds of
Pop] lies and the common Foxglove are sown
together. The Poppies bloom the first, and the
Foxgloves the next and the third year. The
land is at the end of this term again dug and
planted with shrubs, or with Narcissus and
other hardy bulbs, and permitted to assume its
original wild character as before. Sometimes,
at this stage, various British plants are set out,
as Epilobium, &c, and allowed to take pos-
session of the land. Nothing is kept too trim
in these patches, the charm of semi-wildness
being constantly borne in mind.

Wo observed Lilies, Gladiolus, Iris K;emp-
feri, Delphinium, and Galtonia (Hyacinthus)
candicans, planted by the hundred ; also beds
of mixed species of Lilium, those of the old
world being exclusively chosen, as California!)
species refuse to thrive. These Lily-beds have
superficies of 100 to 150 square yards apiece.
(To he continued.)

New or Noteworthy Plants.

IRIS TUBERGENIANA, SP. n.
I have received from the firm of C. G. Van
Tuhergen, Junr., a little Iris, whose characters
seem to justify specific distinction. It is allied to
I. caucasica and I. orchioides, but differs from
both. Bulb somewhat slender, with the ordinary
characters of a bulb of a Juno Iris. Plant about
10 cm. high at flowering time, with one, two,
or more apparently sessile flowers. Leaves about
six, each 6 to 8 cm. by 1 to 5 cm. at broadest,
light glaucous green, pointed, conspicuously striated,
and with a marked ' ' cartilaginous " margin.
Spathe valves 4 or 5 cm. long, narrow pointed,
not inflated, thin, but green, membranous at tip
only. Fall about 4 cm. long, rather more than
1 cm. at its broadest part. The claw bears lateral
expansions, so that the whole fall is more or less
fiddle-shaped. The fall possesses a median orest,
which along some distance back from the extreme
front is cut up into conspicuous filaments, 1 cm.,
or nearly so, in length, so that the crest becomes a
linear beard. Staudards minute, three-toothed,
the median tooth being usually longest, stretched
out horizontally. Style nearly 3 cm. long by about
1 cm. broad, with a conspicuous tongue- shaped
stigma, and two large deltoid crests.

226

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 15, 1899.

Anthers large, pollen coarse and abundant.
Ovary, rounded trigonal, rather more than 1 cm.
long ; tube, three or more times as long as
the ovary. The falls are bright yellow, especially
the crest and beard, but with a slight tinge of.
green. As in I. orchioides, the blade of the fall is
marked by a few scarce variable blackish-green
streaks or dots. The styles are of a more dis-
tinctly greenish-yellow. The plant, without being
exceedingly handsome, is pleasing ; flowering, as it
does, nearly at the same time as the purple Iris
reticulata, it supplies an agreeable contrast to
these. In foliage and habit it resembles I. cau-
casica, though the leaves are more glaucous, and
more distinctly striated. The flower is like that of
orchioides, but differs in the claw having dis-
tinct lateral expansions (these are wholly absent
in orchioides), and in the crest, which in or-
chioides is ofteu hardly even serrate (in caucasica
it is often very serrate), being cut up into a con-
spicuous linear beard. The two features seem to
justify its being regarded as a distinct species.
The conversion of the crest into a beard, though
useful in this case for specific distinction, is one of
many instances showing how little value can be
attached to the possession or lack of a beard or
crest as a fundamental character, and so a means
of forming large groups of Irises.

Diagnosis. — General features of the bulb of
the various parts of the plant that of a
Juno Iris. Foliage, habit, and general features,
exclusive of the flower, the same as in I. caucasica.
Flower resembles colour and otherwise that of
I, orchioides, except that the claw of the fall bears
conspicuous lateral expansions, and the median
crest of the fall is cut up into a conspicuous linear

beard.

# # * #

I have also received, through the kindness of
the same firm, two new hybrid Irises of their own
raising.

One I. sindjarensis x I. persica, is a most
charming plant, in foliage and flower almost half-
way between the two parents. The flower has a
fuller colour than the seed-bearing parent, I. sindja-
rensis, though it has not the conspicuous colour
patch at the apex of the fall, which is so marked a
colour feature of the pollen-bearing parent, I. persica.
The plant is quite dwarf, and exceedingly flori-
ferous. Every one who sees it will, I am sure,
want to possess it.

The other is a cross between I. persica type,
and I. persica purpurea. It, too, is almost half-
way between its parents, and though the purple
is of a somewhat lurid hue, the plant is very
charming. Both of them, especially the former,
supply a welcome addition to the garden. M.
FosU r, Great Shdford, March 29.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

■ •

CYPRIPEDIUM INSIGNE LUCTANI.

Clear yellow forms of Cypripcdium insigne
art- much prized, and one of the best of these is
C. i- Luciani, a fine flower of which is sent by
A. Warburtou, Esq., Vine House, Haslingdcn.
The plant will, doubtless, be known to some culti-
vators by the fine figure in Lindenia, \i. , p. 53, but
the illustration is surpassed by the flower sent by
Mr. Warburton, notably by bright yellow taking
the place of the green base of the upper sepal.
'The llower is of an uniform deep chrome colour,
except the upper half and margin of the dorsal
sepal, which arc pure white. A striking feature in
tin- llower is (lie broad, well-displayed petals.

Yellow Cypripedium insigne are always asso-
ciated with the famous C. i. Sanderse, which, when
seen at its best, is still the finest variety. Latterly
some orchidists report that even this fine form
varies not only in the size, but somewhat in the
form of the flowers of the same plant at different
times, and that lately it has displayed a tendency
to produce a few slightly-raised dull purple-brown
spots on the yellow of the lower part of the dorsal

sepal. A flower of it sent by Mr. Warburton also
displays this peculiarity. The plant was said to
have been grown in a cold-house. Probably, if
assisted with a little more warmth when perfecting
and expanding the flowers, the markings, which
are viewed in the light of a blemish, would not be
developed.

OdONTOOLOSsUM LUTEO-ITRITREUM
VUVLSTEKEANTM.

It is always a pleasure to meet with any of the
well-marked, rare varieties of Orchids of which but
few examples exist, as it proves that the culti-
vator knows how to deal with them, and to increase
their number. A case in point is furnished by the
Rev. F. Paynter, Stoke Hill, Guildford (gr., Mr.
Cook), who has sent us a fine inflorescence of that
remarkable variation in typical 0. luteo-pur-
pureum, in which the brown markings are absent,
and the whole flower, except the cream-white front
lobe of the lip, is pale yellow, with bright orange
markings. It puzzled Reichenbach so much, that
iu the Gardent rs' Chronicle, 1S84, p. 7, he described
it is a speeies under the name of 0. Vuylstekeanum,
remarking on certain resemblances to 0. x Wilcke-
anum and 0. x mulus, which certainly do present
themselves, especially in the hawthorn scent of the
flower, similar to that noticed in 0. mulus. There
seems little doubt, however, that it is a seedling sport
typical in 0. luteo-purpureum, in which the darker
colour has been suppressed, leaving a clear yellow
flower of two tints, in the same manner that 0. l.-p.
Masereelianum is transfigured in the 0. l.-p.
sceptrum class. The whole contour of the flowers,
with their spiny crest and broad, crimped, and
fringed labellum, makes it a very attractive plaut,
and its rarity makes it valuable. Forms of 0.
luteo-purpureum are gaining in favour, and varieties
that are beyond average quality fetch high juices.

Dendrobium nobile Schroderianum.

This is the largest flowered and most beautiful
white D. nobile. In the collection of the late Mr.
Gair, of Falkirk, there appeared a similar variety,
and flowers of it have been sent us by Mr. Mark
Watts, Selwood Gardens, Rolherhaiu, the home of
the now distributed Owen collection. D. nobile
candidulum figured in Lindenia, x., p. 99, is an
ally, but with lighter purple base to the lip.

CONIFERS.*

Culture. — From their wide range of distribution,
and from being found chiefly iu elevated situations
where the air is pure, we may deduce two impor-
tant facts as guides to their successful culture.
First, Conifcra arc not over fastidious as to soil ;
secondly, to flourish they require pure air. Such
indeed is the case. Conifera; generally will grow
iu almost any kind of soil, provided they receive
the requisite amount of moisture ; but they flourish
in a cool rich sandy loam. These facts are
strikingly exemplified by Piuus sylvostris which,
as we all know, will grow almost anywhere. It
flourishes ou sandy loam in the plains, and on
mountains of granite and gneiss as in Scotland.
On hard-binding soils it is msre subject to fungoid
diseases ; on stiff loam its height suffers ; on
shallow rocky soil (limestone and chalk) there is a
decided tendency towards the malformation of the
bole, and it is also dwarfed and short-lived. Other
species have peculiarities iu habitat, &c, which
may be interesting to note : — Pinus Pinaster seems
partial to the low, swampy, and salty districts
near the sea-shore. 1'. halepensis, unlike its con-
geners, appears partial to limestone, though it is
not absolutely confined thereto. P. australis and
lJ. Taada abound on the sterile sand of the famous
" Pine barrens " of North America. Larch grows
rapidly on the chalk, but does not stand. Golden
Yews revel in a clayey soil and shady position.
Taxodium distichum should be planted near water.

Extracts from ;i paper read before the Mutual Improve*
ment Society of the Royal Gardens, Kew, by Mr. E. II.
Wilson. The Hooker Prize was awarded to this essay.

Lastly, for Araucarias and Retinospora section of
Cupressus, a light sandy loam is absolutely essential.
The abuse of the second "great factor " of success
(i.e. pure air), is unfortunately only two well shown
by our Conifers at Kew. This, together with the
drought in summer, is undoubtedly the cause
of our partial failure to grow them.

Conifers may be planted to serve many purposes.
For ornamental effect, they stand second to noue,
either as specimens on lawns, or in groups, or
mixed with dicotyledonous trees, anyhow or any-
where, they "head the poll." At Kew, although
we cannot boast of specimen Conifers in the sense
that Dropmore, Penrhyn Castle, or Hewell Grange
can, nevertheless, some of ours give a tolerably good
idea of what they can lie. Look at the noble
aspect of that clump of Cedars over-shadowing the
" Temple of Sun," and of the vista of Cedrus
atlantica, leading to the Pagoda ; or again, the
stately grandeur of some of our specimens of Pines,
Cedars, &c. , such, for instance, as Pinus Laricio,
P. pinea, P. Coulteri, Cedrus Lcbani, Ginkgo biloba,
&c. Furthermore, a visit to our temperate-house
will not fail to convince anyone of their value for
conservatory decoration, particularly Araucarias
and Dacrydiums, which are not quite hardy in this
country.

Apart from their ornamental qualities, the larger
growing genera (Pinus, Abies, l'icea, Tsuga, &c),
are specially adapted for planting as "nurses "to
more tender trees (fruit, &c). Their deuse habit,
and persistent leafage, is an effectual barrier against
the cold, biting east winds, so destructive to fruit
trees in spring.

Agaiu, these same large - growiug species are
indispensable for economic planting in the formation
of woods and forests. The veriest tyro is familiar
with "Deal" and " Pitch Pine," two of their forms
of timber.

Planting may be conducted from the beginning
of September to the end of March, weather per-
mitting. In planting Conifers, and, indeed, all
trees and shrubs, make the holes sufficiently
large so as to admit of spreading the roots out all
round. It is a bad beginning to cramp the roots up
anyhow at the outset — give them room. Plant
firmly, but uot too deeply. A barrowload of rough
loam in the bottom of the hole, and a little spread
over the roots, is excellent medicine, but avoid rank
manure iu planting. Those needing it should be
staked at once, or the wind may damage them. A
mulch of litter or lawn-mowings is very beneficial
iu summer, especially to freshly-planted plants.

After they have become established their wants
are few, merely the ordinary attention of arbori-
culture, that is, the keeping free of choking weeds,
the cutting away of dead branches, and the trim-
ming into shape of tiiose for ornamental purposes.
If branches of considerable size are removed, a
coating of tar should be applied to the wound, as
this checks "bleeding," and also prevents decay
from water soaking in. The " leaders," too, should
be looked after and kept straight, tying to a stake.
Sometimes they lose their "leaders," either by
accident or otherwise, as is the case with some
Abies and Piceas in the Kew collection (A. nobilis,
A. concolor). In these cases, the topmost lateral
should be tied up to replace the main axis. With
the pyramidal-growing species (Irish Yew, species
of Thuya, Cupressus, Juniperus, &c), it is a good
plan, where practicable, to-go rouud, after a snow-
storm and tap them with sticks to dislodge the
snow, this preventing their being broken down by
its weight. Lastly, and most important of all,
Conifers must never be allowed to suffer from want
of water ; when freshly planted, this item must
have special attention — if once they suffer, they are
crippled, if uot killed outright.

Propagation.

This may be effected by seeds, grafting, cuttings,
or layering — but the first, the natural method, is
by far the best ; nevertheless, for the variegated
forms of certain species, the latter methods are the
only reliable means of perpetuating the variety.

April 15, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

227

Seeds. — The majority of Conifera? bear seed
readily when they arrive at maturity. The seeds
are borne in cones, which vary in size from that of
a child's head (Araucaria Bidwelli) to a little larger
than a good-sized Pea (Cupressus sp.). Generally,
by their hygroscopic character, the cones, when
ripe, liberate their seeds, and then fall away. The
seeds are frequently winged, and this assists in their
dispersal by the wind. In Pinus muricata the
cones remain attached for many years ; this is well
shown by specimens in the Kew collection, some of
which must be twenty years old.

To obtain seeds for sowing, the cones should be
gathered as soon as ripe (or just previous), and
placed in a warm dry place. The scales will then
separate, and the seeds fall out. The cones of the
Firs release their seeds more readily than do many

varieties will germinate in eight to twelve weeks
from time of sowing, though occasionally somo
(species of Cupressus and Juuiperus) may even take
two years to germinate.

The seeds of all the more tender Conifers (Aran-
carias, Dacrydium, Podocarpus, Widdringtonia,
&c. ), must of course be sown in heat. Sow in pans
or boxes in sandy soil, and place in bottom-heat
of about 70° F. When large enough, prick off, and
grow on in heat, and finally harden off into a cool-
house. For the first two years of their life, Conifer
seedliugs develop very slowly. It is not until the
third or fourth year that they "push." When
about "2 inches high, the seedliugs in the beds out-
side should be pricked off into other similarly
prepared beds. In winter a " light " (glass), or a
few pieces of Yew or Pine-branches stuck amongst

those of A. concolor apparently identical with
those of A. brachyphylla. Again, some of these
"seedling forms" often vary so greatly that if
their origin were unknown they could be taken for
new and distinct species ; as examples of this, we
have the "Irish Yew,'' "Erect Lawson," and
"Whip-cord Arbor- vitse," which are only seminal
varieties of the common types. Mr. Harry Veitch
contends, and it is generally accepted, that all the
varieties of Retinospora have sprung from two
types — Retinospora (Cupressus) obtusa and R.
pisifera. Indeed, I think we may justly say with
Dr. Masters, that "the unexplained phenomenon
' polymorphism ' is greater in Conifer seedlings than
in any group of plants, and perhaps the Cupressus
family show it most." E. II. WHson.
(To hf continued.)

Fir.. 85. — HOLLAND BOUSE: WEST FRONT. (SEE 1'. 225.)

species of Pines (P. pinea, P. Pinaster, &c. ), and
these should be exposed either to solar heat or to
gentle warmth given by oven or kiln. A good and
simple method is, in February, to bury the cones a
couple of feet in sand, and in a mouth or six weeks'
time the scales will easily fall away ; the seeds
having swollen must be sown at once. The cones
of Cedars are very resinous, and ought to be kept
a year before the seeds are separated, iu which
time the resin will have partially evaporated.

March or April are the best mouths for sowing
the seeds. Seed-beds should lie prepared in a shady
part of the garden, using a compost of light sandy
loam and leaf soil. Make the beds level aud
rather linn ; scatter the seeds thinly aud evenly
over the bed, and then lightly cover with sandy
soil. These beds must not suffer for lack of water.
Uuder such conditions as these, most of the hardy

them, will break the force of the cold biting north
and east wind-.

One of the most important items in Conifer-
culture is transplanting. On the regularity with
which this is performed, much of the future
success depends. No Conifer, seedling or cutting,
should remain in one position longer than two years,
until it can be planted in its tiual position. Trans-
planting promotes the development of a mass of
fibrous roots. Of course, if a seedling can be
planted permanently at onset, so much the better ;
but this is rarely practicable save in forests. A
very striking and remarkable fact is the diversity
in form, &o. , presented by a bed of Conifers, so
much so, that it is often impossible to tell what
they are until they are four or five years old.
We ourselves have seen seedlings of Abies nobilis
looking identical with those of A. concolor, and

THE HEPATICA.

, 17s.)

The double white Hepatica has been a coveted
plant, and its existence or non-existence has caused
much inquiry and controversy. If we are to believe
Kay aud (lilliert, it existed in their day, although
later Philip Miller wrote in terms which appeared
to cast doubt upon their statements. Yet one is
disposed to accept the description given by Gilbert
of the double white Hepatica in his Vatic Mectm as
true.

A number of years ago a plant of the double
blue variety gave an offset with double white
flowers in the garden of Mr. W. B. Boyd, of Fal-
donside, Melrose. Three or four flowers which it
produced were taken off and showrn to the late
Mr. McNab, Curator of the Edinburgh Botanic

228

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 15, 1899,

Gardens, who remarked, ' ' Well, I have often heard
of a double white Hepatica, but I never saw one
before." This offset was taken off, but unfortu-
nately too much care was taken of it by covering
it with a bell-glass, and it died. In 1893, the
manager of the herbaceous department in a North
of England Nursery, and in whose veracity I have
every confidence, told me that he had seen the
double white Hepatica about twenty years before,
and that it was in a garden in Perthshire, and also
ia that of Van Houtte, in Ghent. Three or four
years ago (unfortunately, I have not kept a note of
the date), it appeared from the replies to corre-
spondents in the Gardeners' Chronicle that a flower
of the double white Hepatica had been seut for the
inspection of the Editor. It had come from Ger-
many, and, after putting myself in communication
with the raiser, who was a nurseryman, I learned
that it was a seedling, and that plants were not yet
ready for sale, although inserted in his catalogue
unpriced. There is no valid reason why this double
variety should uot be recognised as having been in
existence, and none exists to prevent us from
hoping that the raising of seedlings may give us
white, pink, and blue varieties, with intermediate
shades, hitherto unknown, of double - flowered
Hepaticas.

There is plenty of variety amoug the single-
flowered Hepaticas. We have the common blue ;
Barlowi, which some have reckoned a species, of a
deep purple-blue ; single red, single-pink, single
white or alba ; the same with white anthers,
alba major ; alba coernlea, tinged with blue ; alba
rosea, white, tinged flesh colour ; Beauty, silver-
grey ; ccerulea pallida, with its variety major,
pale blue; lilacina, lilac; lilacina pallida; rosea
pallida, pale r'ose ; rosea splendens, a fine-coloured
flower, with rosy-crimson blooms. One might in
time raise all these varieties from seed. The seeds
should be carefully gathered as soon as ripe. They
may either be sown when ripe, or kept until
autumn. The seeds ought to be sown in pans or
boxes. The surface of the soil should be kept uni-
formly moist until the seeds germinate the follow-
ing year. In order to secure this, some growers
place pieces of slate on the top of the pan. When
the seedlings are large enough to handle they may be
planted out. They will flower in from two to
three years after their first appearance.

Fine as is Anemone (Hepatica) angiflosa, its
sparseness of flower with the great majority of
growers militates greatly against its usefulness.
In few gardens does it produce anything like a full
quantity of bloom, and the writer has seen various
methods tried to make it more floriferous, but in
vain. Not unlikely we may have to look to seed-
ling-raising to give us free-blooming varieties of
this splendid large-flowered Hepatica. In the cul-
tivation of the Hepatica one finds that a good,
rather heavy soil is the best for inducing free
growth with plenty of flower. A little shade is
beneficial ; and, provided that shelter from the
trying east winds is secured, an easterly exposure
suits the plant well. Removal and division ought,
as far as possible, to be avoided. It dislikes both ;
and when it is necessary to divide plants, the soil
should be well washed from among the roots before
■"p'-;^" Before re-planting, the roots may be
dipped in water, and then into dry earth or sand,
which will then adhere to the rootlets, which
seem shy to take hold of new soil. A little atten-
tion to the Hepaticas, in the way of top-dressing
with well -decayed cow -manure, will not be un-
rewarded.

Varieties op Hepatica angulosa.
One is pleased to see that decided breaks in the
colouring of Hepatica angulosa have at last been
obtained. I am indebted to Messrs. Richard Smith
& Co., of Worcester, for bunehes of flowers of two
varieties of this Hepatica ; these were raised at their
nursery. The first is named H. angulosa atrocierulea;
it has very large flowers, of deep purple-blue, rather
lighter than those of H. triloba Barlowi ; this is a
vecy beautiful variety. The other is as yet only

named "variety." The flowers are a very delicate
pale blue, not so large as atrocoerulea, but with an
additional number of sepals. One is at a loss to say
which of the two is the more beautiful. Now that
we have secured breaks like these, we may expect
other tints and shades to be produced in this fine
Hepatica. Among the varieties of H. triloba
which came at the same time was one I had not
seen before, which is, perhaps, more curious than
beautiful. It is named tesselata. The flowers are
small, and the sepals are not quite as long as the
bracts, so that the blooms look as if they were
surrounded by a small green collar. ,S'. A rnott.

Eranthis cilicicus.
Among other interesting things in the notes on
spring flowers by Dr. Dammer, in the Gardeners'
Chronicle of April 1, is a reference to Eranthis
cilicicus. With me it blooms later than E. hyemalis,
so that either the climate at Berlin is the cause of
the difference, or the tubers have been collected in
a different quarter. Personally, I prefer our old
acquaintance, E. hyemalis, but some may like the
newer introduction better. As Dr. Dammer says,
the leaves of E. cilicicus are more finely divided.
The plants I have grown are a little darker in
colour than E. hyemalis, but my stock has been
small. S. Arnolt, Carsethorn-by-Dumfrles, N.B.

KEW NOTES.

Cliveia miniata citrina. — This well-marked,
beautiful variety is now in flower in the T range at
Kew. It is said to have been collected wild in
Zululand by Captain Mansell, and first flowered in
the garden of Mrs. Powys Rogers, Perrenwell,
Cornwall, in April, 1897, when flowers of it, and
subsequently a little plant, were sent to Kew.
An example of the same variety had, however,
already been added to the Kew collection by the
Rev. W. H. Bowden, Bow, North Devon, who sent
it along with some other plants which had been
collected in Zululand, and it is this plant which is
now in flower. It resembles a good form of the
type in every particular except colour, in which it
differs widely from all the forms hitherto raised in
gardens, and popularly known as Imantophyllums.
These are all more or less of a reddish orange
colour, but the variety citrina is coloured a clear
pale cream with a faint tinge of orange at the base
of the segments. This variety ought to prove
valuable to breeders of Cliveias, whose efforts so far
have produced exceptionally little colour variation
in the seedlings raised.

H.EMANTHUS CINNABARINCS.

A group of about twenty plants of this handsome
Haemanthus is now flowering in the Nepenthes-
house at Kew, where, owing to the conditions
being favourable, the leaves and flowers are of
much larger dimensions than those represented in
the Botanical Magazine, t. 5314 ; indeed, the Kew
plants might be taken for H. Lindeni, which differs
from H. cinuabarinus only in the larger size of its
leaves, and greater number of flowers in the umbel.
H. cinuabarinus was introduced from the Gaboon
in 1857, and has since been found in other parts of
the Guinea coast. The Kew plants new flowering
were brought from Aburi, Gold Coast, by Mr. C. H.
Humphries nearly two years ago. Planted in light
soil in the low rockery in the Nepenthes-house,
this bulb has grown much more satisfactorily than
others of the same species which were started at
the same time in pots. The (lowers are of a bright
cinnabar-red colour, and they are arranged in a
large head, as in Agapanthus.

Erica CuamissonIs.
This Cape Heath is so similar to that shown by
Messrs. Veitch as E. propendens at the Drill Hall
recently, that it might easily be mistaken for it.
There are good botanical differences, however, in
the length of the pedicels and the colours of the
anthers, which in E. Chamissonis are of a bright
purple colour, and the pedicels are half an inch

long ; whereas in E. propendens the flowers are
sessile on the ends of the branchlets. In habit and
colour there is practically no difference, and for
garden purposes they may be said to be of equal
value. That E. propendens has merit was proved
by the award of a First-class Certificate to the
plants shown by Messrs. Veitch. E. Chamissonis
was figured in the Botanical Magazine in 1874
(colour too pink), when Sir Joseph Hooker bewailed
the disappearance of the beautiful Cape Heaths
from English gardens, attributing it partly to their
culture being unknown to most gardeners of the
present day, who kill such plants with too much
water. Such pretty greenhouse plants as the two
above named are worth the little special attention
they require, even in these days of hurry from
seed-pot to exhibition hall. 11'. W.

Ireland.

DUBLIN.

We had the best spring show we ever had here
on Thursday last, April 6. Daffodils, Cyclameus,
Arum Lilies, and Freesias as good, or even better
than I ever saw them before. Fruit and vegetables
also very fine ; Royal Sovereign Strawberries, Cox's
Orange Apple, Catillac Pear, obtained 1st prizes.
Orchids aud stove plants, especially Crotons (Co-
dianim), were very rich in colour. Flowering shrubs,
Deutzias, Azaleas, and herbaceous collections,
shrubs and bulbs included, were superb.

The finest sight in Dublin streets to-day is Sir
Philip Crampton's Tear-tree, a Jargonelle, planted
by him in the area in front of No. 14, Merrion
Square, N., in the year of our Lord, and of
Waterloo, 1815. It is now one vast sheet of white
clustered blossoms, resembling wedding bouquets,
aud the admiratiou of the most bland or borne1
passer-by. Even the car-men point at it with
their whips as they drive past, and say to their
"fares," or to each other, "Look at that for
Oircland ! It's moighty fine entirely. So it is,
begorrogh ! " I have never seen a single fruit-
tree so fine and fertile anywhere, aud we look
upou it here as quite a historical aud national
monument to one of Ireland's many great medical
or surgical men.

The gales have blown our Daffodils to pieces ;
they did not "dance with glee," nor did our
"hearts with pleasure fill ; " we deplored the ruiu,
and hoped for more genial April days. F. W.
Burbidgt .

Cultural Memoranda.

GOLDFUSSIA ANISOPHYLLA.
Some score of years ago this pretty plant was
frequently seen in gardens, but for some reason it
has now almost disappeared. The plant is an ever-
green, with dark green leaves and tubular flowers
of blue aud lilac colours, borne in profusion.
Flowers of these tints are not plentiful among
stove plants in the summer and autumn months ;
and having regard to this fact and to the ease with
which they cau be produced, the plant deserves a
place in every garden. After flowering, a plant
should be cut back and afforded a partial rest, i.e.,
water should be withheld for a few weeks, not,
however, allowing the mould to become excessively
dry. When the plant breaks, partially shake the
roots of the soil, aud repot in a pot of a suitable
size (say a (i or an 8-iuch one), using a compost of
equal parts fibry loam, peat, or decayed cow-dung,
broken up by hand, and some silver-sand. During
the growing season afford the plant a temperature
of 05° to 80", and abundance of aerial moisture.
The plant being always iufested with red-spider
in a dry house, it is very essential that it be kept
in a moist one till it begins to flower, when a drier
one is more desirable. As it flowers in the summer
aud autumn, a warm conservatory will suit the
plant at that time, being conducive to continued

April 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

229'

flowering and the ripening of the wood, not only of
this plant but most stove plants during those
seasons.

Young unflowerecl shoots 3 inches in length
make good cuttings, and these root readily when
inserted in sandy soil, and plunged in a hot-bed.
When rooted, pot off immediately, growing them
on in a stove, pinching out the points of the shoots
several times in order to get plenty of branches.
II. T. iL, titoneleir/h Abbey Gardens.

NOTES FROM A SCOTTISH MANSE.

Nature has of late been very capricious and
unreliable, so far as regards her atmospheric mani-
festations. For a time she was unusually mild and

Clio, and Viscountess Folkestone. Flower-buds are
already visible on the Rose last mentioned, which
is one of the most precious, alike for beauty and
fragrance, of the hybrid Teas. Whether they will
be graciously permitted to reach maturity is another
and widely different question ; in any instance, in
such a variable season their development must be
slow.

Those who delayed the pruning of their Rosea
till the present period, have reason to congratulate
themselves upon such prudent procrastination.
We cannot say with the poet, with reference to
this matter at least : " 'Tis madness to defer."

The great attractions of April, on whose confines
I am writing, are the flowering trees. The flower-
buds of the Almond are preparing to expand their

The reign of the Primrose, one of the purest and
gentlest daughters of Nature, has already begun.
This peninsular parish is peculiarly a region of
Primroses ; here they appear to him who loves
them to have found their happiest home ; they
clothe the green slopes that rise softly from the
waters of the spacious Bay of Luce ; and glorify the
rocks that tower in stern majesty over the western
Irish Sea. They have many floral companions
there, all of them fascinating in their form or
colour, their picturesque position, or romantio
environment ; but none so gracious, so fragrant, or
refined. They are the children of adversity ; they
are borne amid atmospheric tribulation, equinoctial
storms, and desolating rains ; yet serene in their
beautifully-sheltered recesses, they are the parents

«y^p*

Fig. 86.- -Holland

THE DUTCH FLOWER HARDEN, LOOKING WEST. (.SEE P, 225.)

gracious in her moods, smiling upon her vernal
creations with a summer-like amiability ; then
suddenly she assumed a sterner aspect, and the
progress of vegetation soon received an unwonted
check, through a somewhat severe visitation of the
frost. In some regions, I doubt not, the results
were disastrous ; here, where we have a sheltered
situation, especially from the north and east winds,
whose influence of late has been most severe, we
have not suffered much. Heavy rains have fol-
lowed the departure of the frost, and genial
weather once more prevails. Many of my finest
Rose-trees have already been generating exqui-
sitely-coloured shoots, especially such varieties as
Alister Stella Gray, supposed to be a kind of minia-
ture variation from Wm. Allen Richardson (which
here achieves little during the summer, but is on the
other hand, a very profuse autumnal bloomer) ;
Madame Pierre Cochet, A. K. Williams, Homer,

pale-pink splendours o the sun, and the season of
luxuriant bloom for the Plums and the Cherries,
judging from their aspect, is not far away. Al-
ready we have the earliest of the Auriculas, per-
haps the most fragrant, and not the least beautiful,
of vernal flowers ; when they begin to unfold their
odorous treasures, we know from experience that
summer with all her glories is near. One floral
revelation, each more lovely than its predecessor,
is followed by another, as ware flows into wave on
a boundless sea. Such is the infinite variety of
Nature, by which our spirits are constantly in-
spired, and thus rescued from weariness, yea, even
from despair. What were this life of ours, with
all its environing mysteries of sorrow and suffering,
without its sunlight and its flowers? And yet, as
Mrs. Hemans has so touchingly sung : —
"Alas, for Love, if thou wert all,
And nought beyond— 0, Earth I "

of hope— they speak to our natures of brighter days
to come.

In our gardens, unless perhaps in shady green
places, where they have the companionship of the
Daisy of Burns aud Montgomery, and the Celan-
dine of Wordsworth (and such retired situations I
have provided for them here), they have a some-
what alien aspect, as if they were longing for their
native places, the shadowy glens, where they
harmouise so gracefully with the sweetly-scented
Scilla nutans ; or green sequestered nooks amid the
heather, above the sunny shore.

Of Primroses more suitable for garden culti-
vation my favourites are the Double Crimson,
with its charming velvety hue ; Primula deuti-
culata, whose colour is bright lilac, and whose habit
is unique ; P. nivalis, with its snow-white flowers
—a veritable gem : and, above all, the nobly-
endowed Primula rosea from the Himalayas ; of

230

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 15, 1899.

which the grandest form, P. grandiflora, first
flowered at Aberdeen.

I canDOt close this fragmentary article without
some recognition, however inadequate, of the kind-
ness of Mr. Melville, head gardener to the Duke
of Sutherland at Dunrobin Castle, in sending me
recently some very precious flowering bulbs of the
magnificent Snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis Melvillei,
which was raised by himself, and appropriately
bears his name. He sent this variety, contem-
poraneously, to Mr. Arnott of Carsethorn, who
may be regarded as an authority on alpine and
herbaceous flowers. It is the largest and loveliest-
Snowdrop I have yet acquired— a most valuable
addition to my floral possessions. David J!.
Williamson.

Nursery Notes.

MESSRS. J. VEITCH & SONS, LIMITED, THE

ROYAL EXOTIC NURSERY, CHELSEA.

The visitor to this establishment at the present
time will find much to interest him in the numerous
glasshouses. Does he wish to refresh his memory
with a sight of New Holland and Cape plants,
there are houses and pits filled with Boronias,
Tetrathecas, Pimeleas, Acacias, Callistemons,
and others of those generas, and he will be
loth to leave the sweet-scented bushes of Boronia
megastigma. A novelty was noted in foreign-
grown standards of Callistemon rigidus, with heads
1£ foot in diameter, well furnished with buds of
their brush-like flowers. The "Flower House "is
filled with all sorts of popular greenhouse subjects,
grown as only specialists can grow such plants, to
match which the private cultivator may well
despair-. Here was that pretty-flowering semi-
hardy perennial herb Dimorphotheca Eckloni, a
Composite, with flowers milk-white within and pale
purple without. Its flower-stalks reach a height
of 2£ feet, and the flowers are sufficiently numerous
as to make it decorative. Deutzias, Azaleas,
Lilacs, Cytisus, Calceolaria herbaeea, Rhododen-
dron hybrids, Dutch bulbs, aud Narcissus, formed
the major part of a very pretty display.

The warm-house Rhododendrons are evidently
the Londoner's plant par excellence, no phase of
London climate being inimical to them, as the
vigour of their growth at the present date shows.
Later on, the trusses of blooms will be very fine
and numerous. We only saw a few iu bloom the
other day, aud among them the handsome
Balsaminafloruni album. Other plants remarked as
coming on in quantity are the Phyllocactus, the
floral display from which will exceed that of any
previous year.

The Hippeastrum-house was gay with numerous
tloweriug bulbs, and the following were noted as
being more than ordinarily distinct. Tarascon, a
bloom of a very fiDe shade of deep crimson, smooth
and regular in shape ; Troilus a crimson self of
another tint, and with a velvety appearance ;
Bryges is similar, and with a glistening surface ;
Cupid is a scarlet, with white stripes, and a
greenish stain at the bottom of the flower ; Maer
is a pretty bloom, white, with faint stripes of a
crimson tint ; Dumas is a scarlet bloom, having
white bands : a bright aud distinct variety ; Lago
is a deep crimson self, of regular shape, and much
substance in the flower ; Python, a rich velvety-
crimson, of a fine shape, is one of the best ; iu the
same way is Quintus, but with a light crimson
band running down the middle of each segment ;
Euryllis is a white-ground flower, with broad aud
narrow stripes of a crimson tint ; Enita is similar,
but it has fewer stripes.

The aim of the hybridiser now, is to get
away from self-coloured flowers, and to raise such
as possess at the least a clear ground-colour with
markings of some other well- contrasted colour ; and
another quest is that of a yellow-flowered variety.
The nearest step to this consummation at present
existing is a flower of salmon-red, with the faintest

tinge of the deBired colour. The display of these
bulbs will endure for about a space of three weeks,
the actual length of time being dependent on the
weather.

The Orchid Houses

disclosed many fine hybrids and other plants. Of
the former we may mention a delicately tinted
Chysis Sedeni, obtained from C. Limmiughi and
C. bractescens ; Dendrobium Alcippe out of D.
Iituiflorum Freemani and D. Wardianum, partaking
more after the former ; D. Venus, obtained by cross-
ing D. Falconeri and D. nobile, a very pleasing
flower, with considerable resemblance to the latter
species ; D. Euterpe, out of D. Wardianum and D.
nobile, remarkable for the pale tints of the flower ;
aud D. albo sauguineum, with fawn-tinted sepals
and petals, and purple-blotched throat. The creamy-
white and yellow Bifrenaria Harrisoni Candida was
carrying a goodly number of blossoms.

The show of flowers in the Odoutoglossum-house,
judging from the mass of advancing flower-spikes,
will be a good one, especially the species Alex-
andra?, Pescatorei, and cirrosum. Iu the large
house were numbers of blossoms of Cattleya
Schrodera?. in much variety of colour as regarded
their labellums. A plant of Cattleya Lawre-
Mosshe, a new cross between C. Lawrenceaua aud
C. Mossia? was remarked, and one of C. Schroder*
eximia, which has an attractively frilled lip, and a
cincture of crimson in the tube. A plant of the
Sedenian hybrid Lselio-Cattleya Pallas was in
bloom in this house ; and iu an adjoioiug house
the rarely seen Cypripedium Liudleyanum, as
also C. Chamberlainiauum. Of plants of Aerides
japonicum there will be a nice display in about a
fortnight.

The Week's Work.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrothain Park, Barnet.

Cabbages. — Let the main crop be forthwith
earthed up, if it be not already done, aud set out
more plants from the seed beds. Cabbage Early
Ellam's will now be forming hearts, and where
they have been planted thickly, every alternate
plant may be pulled up for preseut consumption.
The larger varieties will follow these, but I fear
many of Enfield Market will bolt this year.
Several sowings of Cabbage-seed should be made
from March to July, and planted out in moderate
numbers, so that no scarcity of this indispensable
vegetable can occur. The early beds, which most
gardeners preserve for supplying sprouts, such as
Early Evesham, Ellam's, and several of the smaller
quickly hearting varieties, are sure to prove of
great value. Keep the hoe iu constaut use
amongst the various plots. Plants raised in heat
should, after duly hardening them off", be planted
out in showery weather, but if there is no imme-
diate reason for planting them, it will be better
to keep them growing under glass, i.e., in frames,
till the weather gets more settled.

Peas. — Let all Peas requiring support be staked
in turn, first drawing a little soil up to the plants,
and for a time bits of Spruce, Fir, and Laurel
may be stuck along the rows to give shelter against
wind aud frost. Even the dwarf William Hurst,
Chelsea Gem, and others will benefit from this sort
of shelter. As soon as the latest sowing of Peas
shows above ground, some of the more tender large-
growing Marrow-fats may be sown in drills drawn
2 inches deep, this depth being preferable at this
early date.

Spinach. — Seed of Spinach should be sown at
weekly intervals of time if the demand is a con-
stant oue, employing the variety Victoria, which
is superior to the old round-seeded Flanders
Spinach, iu having larger aud more succulent
leaves, and in not running to seed quickly. It is
quite as hardy as the winter Prickly Spinach.
Sow thinly, aud when large enough to pull up by
hand thin the plants to 6 inches apart. Spinach
likes a good-holding, rich soil, and if partially
shaded no harm occurs in the summer months ;
for example, two rows may be sown between two
rows of Peas, when these are sown. Should the

soil be dry when the drills are drawn, apply liquid
manure, and so w the seeds soon afterwards. Seeds
of the so-called Spinach Beet may be sown, the
leaves of which may serve to fill a gap in the
supply. The seeds of this plant should be sown in
drills drawn 1^ foot apart, and 8 inches from one
patch of seed to auother, aud be singled when large
enough to handle. One sowing made in this mouth
will suffice for the season.

Mustard and Cress. — Seeds of Mustard and
Cress may now be sown at short, regular in-
tervals of time, on a sheltered anil warm border,
as also fortnightly the seeds of Radishes, aud
Golden or Normandy Cress. The beds of Radishes
should for a time be protected against birds, or
much of the seed will be carried off. In the event
of very cold or very dry weather, mats or clean
straw should be laid over the seed-beds till germi-
nation has taken place. The varieties of Radishes
are legion, therefore I do not specify any variety.
If the accommodation under glass is limited, aud
the supply of Lettuces for salad is likely to fall
short of the demand, a sowing may be made in
shallow boxes, choosing for the purpose a quick-
growing variety. The entire plants, if cut when
large enough, will make nice dressed salads, aud
save the outside plants for some time longer. Let
seeds of the larger Cos varieties be sown at bi-
weekly intervals, in liues on firm, rich soil, in the
open quarter, and thin the plants to 10 inches
apart. Liues of cotton-thread may be stretched
along the rows to keep off birds ; also sprinkle
with lime and soot to deter slugs.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Lawns. — Before mowing begins, a lawn should
be thoroughly swept aud rolled, but before this is
done, the coarser weeds found in the turf should be
spudded out, and the holes made iu doing this filled
up with fine loamy soil, and made quite firm with
a rammer after spriukling the surface with lawn
grass-seed. Plantains are nasty weeds that should
always be removed from the turf root and stock,
for if any portion of the roots be left in the soil,
the crowns will still further increase in size. On
places where the grass is thin, tine grass-seeds
should be sown after scratching the surface with a
rake, aud be covered slightly with fine soil, and
finally made firm with the lawn-rollor. The same
methods apply in laying down new lawns with seeds.
If a lawn mixture be purchased from a trustworthy
source, the quantity of seed need not exceed SO lb.
per acre. Those who like to use Clover on the
lawn should sow the seeds before the grasses,
hacking them into the ground with a wooden rake.
The best species are Trifolium repens and T.
minus : the first-named may be sown at the rate of
(3 lb., and the second 2 lb. per acre.

Hardy Ericas. — The plants of Erica herbaeea
carnea, having now passed out of flower, should be
clipped- iu hard. When planted to cover rock-
work on a big scale the leading shoots may be left
untouched, aud these will iu time form large
cushious of bloom. E. mediterranea, and its
varieties alba, carnea, glauca, and rubra, flower
during the month of May, and need similar treat-
ment after flowering. E. vagaus blooms in the
early autumn ; and it forms a nice edging to beds
of Ghent aud mollis Azaleas, and when allowed to
grow naturally it makes handsome bushes. The
Ericas grow in any light loamy soil free from chalk
or lime, but when planted in sandy peat the leaves
aud flowers come of a darker tint.

Gail/ardias. — These handsome perennials succeed
iu hot places iu the garden, where other plants
would be liable to be withered up by the heat of
the sun. The soil for them should be of a light
nature, well enriched with rnauure, and deeply
dug. Gaillardias are most effective when planted
iu groups of several together, planting them indi-
vidually at 8 inches apart, spreading the shoots
out, and pegging them down so as to cover the
ground. The following have very fine flowers of
various shades of yellow with crimson centres : —
Comet. Her Majesty, James Kelway, Old Gold,
Primrose Dame, Vivian <irey, Oliver Wendell
Holmes, aud William Kelway. The varieties
W. B. Child, Lord Rosebery, and Sir Vindex,
with beautifully-notched petals, are superb as cut
flowers.

Gynerium argi lift u,n [Pampas-grass). — Clumps
that have become bare iu the centre should be dug

Apml 15, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

231

out, the exhausted soil removed to the depth of
3 feet, and be replaced with rieh pasture-loam three-
fourths, and manure one-fourth. The healthy
portions of the clumps may again be planted at a
suitable distance apart, so as to admit of consider-
able increase in size, as the plants should not
require removal for half-a-dozen years. The plants
are usually found in gardens in two sexes, but the
inflorescence of the female is of a purer colour than
that of the male, and lasts longer in perfection.
When well-rooted, the Pampas-grass needs abund-
ance of water in the summer season.

Annuals. — The young plants of Asters, Zinnias,
Stocks, Helichrysums, Amaryllis, and other
strong-growing annuals should be pricked-out in
pits, the soil of the beds being raised near to the
glass. Let each plant have as much space as will
allow it to grow without being drawn or made
weakly. The yellow Pyrethrum, the dwarf -growing
Lobelias, and the annuals of small growth do well
in boxes.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Burt., Clare Lawn. East Sheen.

Miltonia lloezli, ifcc, has the reputation of being
a short-lived Orchid when cultivated under glass.
Experience, however, has convinced me that it is
as easy to maintain in a healthy condition as its
more popular relative, M. vexillaria. A moist,
warm, and shady position should be selected for
M. ltoezli. The plauts require to be watered
overhead frequently, and to be so placed that the
air can circulate amongst them freely, but avoid-
ing at the same time cold draughts. Place a
layer of sphagnum-moss over an open lath stage,
and stand the plants above this on inverted pots.
The roots are apt to die when the peat and
moss has decayed, and therefore this material must
be replaced before it has reached this condition.
Select small pots, and provide them with a large
amount of drainage, working in amongst the roots
of the plauts a small quantity of peat and sphag-
num-moss in equal proportions. The leaves must
lie sponged to prevent injury from thrips and red-
spider, and to the same end an occasional fumiga-
tion of the house may be afforded. Miltonia
Bleuana x , the hybrid between M. Roezli and NT.
vexillaria, will thrive under similar conditions ex-
cepting that a lower temperature is necessary, such
as that of the warmer cud of the Cattleya-house.

CattUya intermedia will require attention as
soon as the flowers have been removed, for new
roots will then have formed. This desirable Orchid
needs the warmest and most shady part of the
Cattleya-house, and a somewhat liberal supply of
water during the resting period, on account of its
thin pseudo-bulbs. The albino forms do best when
grown in well-drained paus, suspended from the
roof of the same house. A small white scale
attacks these plauts, and considerable care is neces-
sary to remove it without damaging the dormant
buds. A small, rather stiff-haired painter's brush,
moistened with soap, is the best meaus to use.

Ltclio-Cattleya elegans. — The various forms of
this beautiful Orchid do not commence growth
simultaneously, by reason of their diverse parentage,
but from now onwards the plants will need to be
looked over and potted or top-dressed as required.
Position influences the growth of the plauts to a
very great extent, and if they cannot be induced
to thrive they should be placed in various positions
with a view to finding the best one. The conditions
prevailing in the Cattleya-house suit these plants,
lint the distance of the stages from the roof should
determine whether the plauts need suspending or
not. The Teak-wood baskets are suitable for them,
but a difficulty arises when a larger one is required ;
the impossibility of removing the rods of the
basket without injury resulting to the plant on
the one hand, and the undesirability of burying
the wood in a more commodious receptacle on the
other being a great drawback. With the smaller
specimens this difficulty is got over by using per-
forated pans, of which perhaps the best is Sander's
Perfect Orchid Pan. When plants growing in paus
need larger ones, it is a matter of ease to break
them and place the pieces to which roots are adher-
ing in the new ones, thus preserving the roots and
adding drainage at the same time. The material
used as a rooting medium should cousist princi-
pally of peat, with but little sphagnum-moss. A
soddened base is fatal to good health, and tends
to produce that peculiar disease known amongst

Orchid-cultivators as " black rot," a disease that
probably attacks L. -C. elegans more often than
any other Cattleya.

Dendrobiums will now claim attention in the
matter of re-potting and lop dressing, amongst the
first being the ubiquitous D. nobile, and tho
various hybrids obtained from it. Plauts when
they pass out of flower should be removed to
the East Indian- house, or some similar structure,
and allowed to have a rest for a fortnight before
being disturbed. Dendrobiums of this section are
well adapted for growing in baskets, preferably
those of a cylindrical nature, which allow the water
to escape readily, and have more wood to which
the roots may cling. Use iibrous-peat and living
moss, and as little as possible to each plant. I
find that for large specimens, grown in cylindrical
baskets, that the thick bracken roots taken out
of the peat forms a good substitute for ordinary
drainage, though a few pieces of crock should be
introduced to prevent the above becoming soddened.
A careful application, and a limited supply, of water
is essential for some time after the plants have been
disturbed.

Lulia aneeps and its varieties now making
numerous roots, should be at once overhauled,
and specimens that have sufficient rooting -room
be top-dressed only, but others should be carefully
removed to larger receptacles. Teak-wood baskets
best fulfil the requirements of large specimens, and
when possible the plants should be so arranged
that their subsequent growth will take an inward
direction. Small plants may be grown in pans,
which can be broken in pieces when a shift
becomes necessary. Large pieces of crock should
be placed in an upright position for drainage,
covering these with a -mall quantity of peat and
sphagnum-moss, the former predominating. Place
the plants in the Mexican house where lit tie shade
is us.,! and a large quantity of air admitted. The
syringe may be employed on bright days, and the
plants kept well moistened in the ordinary way.

The Removal of Tree Coverings. — -Where Peach
and Apricot-trees have been protected with fixed
coveriugs, a partial removal of these should now
take place, and in I he ease of fish-netting, leaving
but two or three thicknesses for seven or fourteeu
days longer. Movable or sliding screens may be
put out of use excepting on cold nights.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fostbboub, Esq., Dropuiore,
Maidenhead.

Disbudding Peacli awl Nectarine-trees, since

milder weather set in, the trees on the south wall
have made much progress, making disbudding a
matter that must soon be afforded attention. In
carrying out the operation of disbudding, a tree
should be serutiuised three or four times at inter-
vals of a week, and each time some buds should be
removed, choosing for removal the forerights and
those under or behiud the shoots and branches, never
takiug many of them at one time. The branches and
shoots of a Peach tree usually radiate from about
the centre of the tree ; and this being so, the
buds, which will in lime develop into shoots,
are the more suitably placed on the top-sides of
the branches, not that a tree therefore bears more
or better fruits, but the work of laying is simplified,
and crowding* of foliage is more readily obviated.
Having disbudded the back, front, aud lower parts,
attention must be paid to these. The Peach will
sometimes fruit on short spurs, which are formed
by pinching foreright shoots back to two or four
leaves, but, all things considered, it is better to
ignore this fact aud obtain fruit from the young
wood only. One thing must be avoided, and that
is, leaving so many shoots that they cannot be
nailed or trained between existing branches with-
out crowding the foliage and hindering the ripening
of the shoots. Oftentimes one bud at the base of
last year's growth and the terminal one are as
many as ought to be retained, more espe-
cially when a tree has filled its allotted space. A
young tree will require great care in disbudding,
as upon the removal or non-removal of certain
shoots, the shape and appearance of the tree will
largely depend. Where Peach and Nectarine-trees
were thoroughly syringed with some mild insecticide
before the blossoms opened, greenfly will scarcely
prove troublesome at this date. If, however, any
should make their presence kuown by the leaves
curling up, dust the foliage with tobacco-powder, and
as soon as thebloomis set, syringe the trees with clean
water in the morning, or wash them with Quassia-
water. This is at once a simple and safe operation
if the weather be not frosty. The nurserymen sell
a Quassia extract, which if used according to the
printed directions sent with each bottle is a very
safe and effective remedy to use agaiust aphides.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

' 'limbing Plants. — Many of these are now making
new growth, and these young shoots require to be
regulated with a view to furnishing the allotted
space on the trellis, and to prevent crowding aud
entanglement. This applies more particularly to
such plants as Lapagerias, Tacsonias, Hibbertias,
Dipladeuias, and Thunbergias. Where Dipladeuias
are grown in pots they should be given a position
at the warm end of the stov« or other house in
which a high temperature is maintained, and if
the pots can be plunged in mild bottom-heat,
growth will be greatly encouraged. Train the young
shoots siDgly near the glass uutil the flower- buds
appear, when they should be taken down and tied to a
balloon trellis in such a manner as to distribute
the flowers equally over tho trellis. The tying
should be done before the flowers have opened, so
that there will be time for the foliage to assume
its natural position. Of the climbers which arc
raised annually from seed and grown in pots, the
Ipomicas, Thunbergias alata, Maurandyas, and
Ti opseolums are among the most useful. Ipomcea
rubro-eoerulea and I. Quamoclit are very beautiful
subjects for the conservatory. They may be very
readily raised aud grown if afforded a warm tem-
perature during the earlier stages. At the end of
the spring they may be transferred to the conser-
vatory. They require liberal treatment, and if
potted on from time to time will grow and flower
through the greater part of the summer.

Bouvardias. — Old plauts which were pottcd-up
as previously advised will uow be ready to bo
placed in their flowering-pots. These pots should
measure from 6 to S inches in diameter, according
to the size of the plauts. Anight temperature of
55° will be sufficient.

Double-flowered Primulas. — Old plants may bo
divided, and the rooted pieces potted. Offsets
may be placed in thumb-pots filled with light soil,
the base being surrounded with sand. Place them
under a hand - light in an intermediate tempera-
ture, or at the cool end of the stove. When well
rooted, they should be removed to a cooler house,
and be potted into 5-incb pots.

tfisa llant ous. Cuttings of Euphorbia jacquinise-
flora and Centropogou Lucyanus should be taken
from the old plants with a heel wheu about
3 inches in length, and inserted in pots filled with
sandy peat, aud placed in the propagating-frame.
Cuttings of the following plauts may also be put in
now : Manettia bicolor, Erauthemum pulchellum,
Impatieus, Ruellias, Justicias, Salvias, Bouvardias,
Coleus, &c. Annuals for conservatory decoration
which have been pricked out into boxes should be
put into thumb-pots as soon as they are sufficiently
strong. Cuttings of zonal Pelargoniums for autumn
and winter flowering should be potted-up as soon
as they have rooted, and wheu again established
the points may be pinched out.

Variorum.

The Marquis of Bute's Wines are now
vended in the open market, and can be obtained
by all who are interested in the noble marquis's
vineyard experiment. Before me is an advertise-
ment of Welsh wines " Canary Brand," guaranteed
by the Marquis of Bute to be the produce of his
vineyards, and to be of the vintage named on the
label. The prices vary from 38s. per dozen for
1892 vintage to 44s. for 1SS7, and the wines are
variously described as ''golden, medium sweet,'
"full golden, rather sweet," '•' dark golden, medium
sweet," and "luscious golden wine.'' But, alas !
on perusing the advertisement in question further,
the wiue cup is partly dashed from my lips — I sec
that all the vintages but 1892 are sold out. I will,
however, at once sample that, aud record the
result, ifidland Connie* Herald.

232

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 15, 1899.

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,

Bent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by
the writer. It desired, the signature will not be printed, but
kept as a guaranteeof good faith. TheEditor does notundcr-
tahe to pay for any contributions, or to return unused com-
munications or illustration*, tudess 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, <£'C. ; but
he connot be responsible for loss or injury.
Local News,— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which U is
desirable to bring under the notice ofhortiadturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

TUESDAY, April IS

■WEDNESDAY, April

THURSDAY, April
SATURDAY, April

WEDNESDAY, AiRi i.
FRIDAY, April

Royal Horticultural Society's Com-
mittees.
National Auricula and Primula
Society, Exhibition at the Drill
Hall, James Street, Westminster.
National Rose Society's Com-
mittee Meeting.
[fl I York Florists' Exhibition of Auri-
( culas, Hyacinths, &c.

20— Liunean Society, Meeting.

!2 -Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

SALES.

/•Greenhouse Plants, Roses, Her
, J baceous Plants, Begonias, Gla-
■) dioli, &c, at Protheroe >-
(. Morris Rooms.

,. | Imported and Established Orchids,
' \ at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswiek, London, for
the period April 2 to April S, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

Temperature of

Tempera-

2

o

1899.

a the Air.

Soil at 9 a.m.

e

o

V.

At 9 a.m.

l»'
<

0

<

ft

0>

as

s ">

M IS

o

a

Sfi

-a

*C

-a

»o

PI

o

0)

£

-W

.

c'i

"J"

en

i, £

Q

w

«

V

< <

D

s

o
.J

<

<

<

J

deg. deg. deg. deg. ins. deg. deg.

deg.

deg.

Sun. 2

S.S.W.

49-5 4S-1 51 "5 17-1 ... 40-1 t.V:>

44-2 40'8

Mon. 3

W.s.W.

19'8 ifl 9 60-8|47-S ... S9"5

4li*:j

44 r. 45-5

Tues. 4

S.S.W.

51-9 48-C 54-2

44-9 0-07 48-9

47-1

45-1

37-1

Wed. a

W.N W.

520

40-S58-5

42-1

0-02 48*0

471

45-4

33- 2

Thu. 6

w.s w.

538

49-860-3

48-4

0-D0 49-4

17-3

45'8

39-4

Fri. 7

8.8.W.

16-8

15-5 M":.

45-9

0-18 50*2 47-9

45-S

37-S

Sat. s

W.N.W.

II',- 4

41-9

47-5

41-3

O-Os'47'4

47-H

40-2

32-6

Tot.i

Means...

50-0

40- s. 55- 0

45-4 0-30 4811

1

47*145-3 38*1

1 1

Remarks. — Daring the week there have been south and

north-westerly gales, with some showers. On the 8th inst.

there wen

storms

jf rain, snow, hail, and

sleet.

Averace Temperatuke for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-throe Years, at Chiswiek.— 48 7°.

Actual Temperatures : —

London.— April 12 (12 p.m.): Max. 54° ; Min. 36°.
Provinces.— April 12 (6 p.m.) : Max. 4S", Lincoln ; Min.
45°, Holyhead.

r.uils and
Stipules.

task when

Now is the time to study the
construction and unfolding of
the buds. A more fascinating
once the interest is excited can
hardly be imagined. To young gardeners in
particular the study of buds, their position,
nature, and mode of growth, is of very great
importance. If they are not concerned or
interested ill the beautiful transitions between
the scales and the perfect leaves, such as pre-
sent themselves so markedly in the Horse-

Chestnut or the Maple, if they are apathetic in
all that concerns the marvellous adaptations
and provisions to shelter the young shoot and
protect it from living enemies or adverse con-
ditions, if they care for none of these things,
then, at least, the pruning of a Gooseberry-
bush is a matter of importance to them, and
the treatment of fruit-trees and Roses demands
their attention.

Sir John Lubbock has recently added to his
substantial contributions on similar subjects a
little volume on Buds and Stipules (Kegan
Paul, Trench, Trubner & Co.), with nume-
rous informing illustrations, which we cordially
commend to the notice of our readers, amateur
or professional. The lover of facts will be
satisfied with the array placed before him, whilst
the theorists who know how to use the facts,
and the men who know how to turn them to the
best practical advantage, will alika be pleased
with a volume which not only indicates what
there is to be seen, but offers lucid explanations
of the phenomena. It is a popular book in the
best sense of the term, technical, but lucid and
attractive.

We cannot here do more than allude to the
copious details that Sir John Lubbock has
accumulated. Others have done that before
him, but their work has been found dry and
unsatisfying, because the structural confor-
mation of itself does not interest everyone.
Show that the conformation has a history and
a significance ; link the structure to the work
going on in the plant ; show the use and pur-
pose "f these elal "irate arrangements, and eager
listeners and attentive students are secured. In
these pages, therefore, we have detailed descrip-
tions of things as they are ; but, more than
that, we have the " why " and " where-
fore " put before us in such a way as to ensure
our assent.

The young leaves require protection against
too great cold, heat, drought, or moisture, too
vivid light, and the attacks of animals and
plants. This protection is afforded in very
varied ways by the bud-scales and stipules.

There is one point on which the author has
perhaps not laid so much stress as the case
demands, and that is, the occasional presence '
of numerous buds in the axils of the leaf, and
their disposition. In such cases, if one bud be
killed, another takes its place — Him ticnhn mvi
deficit alti r. Forsythia in full bloom at this
time affords a good illustration of this abundant
production of buds, as does also the Walnut. The
paper of MM. Bourgeois and Damaskinos in the
Bulletin of the Soviets Botanique de France, v.
(1858), is important from this point of view.

Granted that the bud-scales and stipules have
the office assigned to them, it is sometimes
difficult to understand why some species are
thus protected, and others not ; thus, while
some Passion-flowers have large stipules, as
described by the author at p. 123 of his book,
many others have the stipules reduced to mere
threads, probably of no present use, though
possibly survivals from a former condition when
they were serviceable.

"The presence or absence of stipules," says
the author, " is not determined by any question
of general symmetry, but rather by practical
considerations connected with the wants and
requirements of the plants. In some cases they
are merely the persistent rudiments or organs
which performed a useful purpose to the
ancestors of the existing species in bygone ages,
and under different circumstances."

" If I shall," concludes tho author, " have
induced any of my readers to look at them for

themselves in the coming spring, they will, I
am sure, be amply rewarded. They will often
be reminded of Tennyson's profound remark
about Nature :

' So careful of the type she seems,
So careless of the single life ; "

and will be more and more struck with wonder
and admiration at the variety and beauty of the
provisions by which Nature preserves these
tender and precious buds from the severity of
winter, and prepares with loving care and rich
profusion for the bright promise of spring, and
the glorious pageant of autumn."

PLATYCERIUMS AT Kew (Supplementary Illus-
tration).— The annexed illustration represents the
collection of Stag's-horu Ferus in the tropical Feru-
liouse at Kew, where the conditions, siuce the
house "was altered, appear to be exceptionally
favourable to the growth of these, and, indeed,
most other tropical Ferns. The Platyceriums are
growing on imitation tree-trunks, made of stout
logs, to which large strips of cork-bark are fas-
tened in such a way as to present the appearance
of a gnarled trunk, and at the same time to afford
pockets which are stuffed with sphagnum-moss and
peat. The plauts are held iu position by means of
copper-wire until they become established. The
whole mass is kept constantly moist, and that the
treatment agrees with the Platyceriums is abun-
dantly evident. The large mass on the left in the
picture is P. Stemmaria (sethiopicum), which has
fertile fronds over 2 feet long. Next to it is a line
example of P. biforme with an enormous mass of
brown barren fronds like an elephant's head ; a
newly-formed one, over 3 feet long, deeply lobed,
and standing erect, as in P. grande, whilst spring-
ing from its base, and measuring 6 feet iu length,
are the fertile elk-horn-like fronds. This species
is exceptional in that it produces its sori on a
separate short, thick spoon-shaped basal lobe,
instead of on the under side of the upper part of
the prolonged fronds. This, which is probably the
largest living example of this species ever seen
alive iu Europe, was sent to Kew two years ago
by Mr. Ridley, Director of the Gardens and
Forest Department, Singapore. Next to it stands
a mass of P. alcicorne, some of the fronds of which
are 2 feet long ; then an equally tine " trophy " of
P. grande, perhaps the handsomest of all the
species, with its large, bold, deeply-lobed, bright
green, barren fronds, 2 feet long, and over 3 feet
wide, and its long, drooping-lobed fertile fronds.
There is also a good example of P. angolense, of
which a figure was published in the Gardeners'
Chronidt last year, and one of the rare P. Wal-
lichi ; several varieties of P. alcicorne arc also
represented by large specimens. The Kew collec-
tion contains all the Platyceriums that are known
to be in cultivation. There are several distinct
species not yet introduced, two of them natives of
Madagascar, viz., P. Ellisiiaud P. madagascariense,
which, judging by dried specimcus, are worth
introducing. Possibly French collectors will for-
ward them before long. The plants are easily
cultivated, provided the essential conditions of
heat, a sweet, open compost, and plenty of moisture
are provided. They multiply rapidly by means of
stoloniferous offsets and root-buds ; they are also
easily raised from spores. I lately saw a fine batch
of young plants of the new P. angolense in Messrs.
Sander's Nursery at St. Albaus. W. W.

The Royal Horticultural Society's

next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April IS,
in the Drill Hall, James Street, Westminster, and
the National Auricula and Primula Society will
hold its annual show at the same time and place.
There will also be an exhibition of Daffodils. At
3 o'clock a lecture will be given on "Asparagus,
Forced and Outdoors," by Mr. Geo. Norman.

LlNNEAN SOCIETY.— At a meeting of this
Society, to be held on Thursday, April 20, 1S09,

April 15, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

233

at S p.m., the following papers will be read : — I.
" The Botany of the Ceylon Patanas," by Mr.
H. W. H. Pearson, B.A. ; II. "Imitation as a
source of Anomalies," by Prof. R. J. Anderson,
F.L.S. ; III. "List of British and Irish Spiders,"
by Bev. 0. PlCKARD, Cambridge, F.K.S.

National Rose Society. — The Hon.

Secretaries desire us to inform our readers that a
meeting of the Rose-soil Analysis Committee will
be held at the Rooms of the Horticultural Club,
Hotel Windsor, Victoria Street, Westminster, on
Tuesday, the 18th inst., at 2 p.m., to consider the
best steps to take in regard to Mr. A. Hill Gray's
suggestion that certain Rose-soils be analysed.

The CYCLES' Rest at Kew.— In the House
of Commons, on Monday last, Major Bowles, M.P.
(Enfield), drew attention to the want of accommo-
dation for bicycles used by visitors at Kew
Gardens ; and Mr. Locgii (Islington), is reported
by the Times to have advocated the formation of
cinder-paths for cyclists in all the London parks,
including Kew Gardens. Quite so ! let us have
exhibitions of the "science" in front of the
succulent-house, announced in the Sporting Times,
ami let the reports of the "events," in which
female as well as male performers take part, be
published in that organ of sport and in the A', w
Bulletin. It is true it would be disgustingly in-
appropriate or very amusing, according to the
diverse tastes of individuals, and Kew has to
consider the desires of the public, including Mr.
Lough, M.P.

The Law of Priority.— Count De Kerchove
has an amusing letter on this subject in the current
number of the Revue Horticole. He records a
supposed conversation in old French in which the
plants named are called by their ancient names,
which he truly says would be almost incompre-
hensible, although the law of priority would be
respected. It is as if we were to write that the
gardener had plucked some "hnutu" near the
" haeguthoru," and gathered some " inerici " under
the "mapuhlur." By right of priority, the " Hazel-
nut," the "Hawthorn," the "Parsley," and the
" Apple-tree," should, in the opinion of some folk,
lose these well-known designations, and resume
those we have above cited from the Epinal Glossary
(8th century). But then there would be no
finality. Professor Strawbrick may find some-
where amid the ruins of the Tower of Babel
evidence of the use in pre-Babel days of names
other than those in the Epinal Glossary. What
then > Obviously some botanists will never be
content till they have discovered or manufactured
an " Index Edenensis," compiled by one Adam,
Protokeeporos.

The Spring Flowers on the grass and in
beds at the Regent's Park will be very beautiful in
the course of a few days. At present, varieties of
the Grape-Hyacinth, and of Scillas, in full Mower,
nestling at the foot, and partially encircling small
shrubberies, have a most attractive appearance.

Challenge Cup for Dumfries Flower
Show. — The Dumfries Town Council have resolved
to vote a sum not exceeding £15 for the purchase
of a Challenge Cup to be competed for at the
Dumfries and Galloway Horticultural Society's
showr. The Dumfries and Calloway Society, as
resuscitated, will hold its show in the Drill Hall,
Dumfries, on Wednesday, September 6.

STOCK-TAKING : MARCH.— Theterrible weather
experienced in many parts of the world during the
past two mouths, ailded to the serious commence-
ment of speculation in certain imports, must take
credit for the heavy diminution in the value of
imports during the month of March as compared
with the same period in 1S98 ; thus, last month's
total is given at£41,492,3S8, as against £43,412,829
— a decrease of £1,929,441. The heaviest decrease
is to be found in raw materials for textiles
(£1,330,527) : this is followed by £1,249,487
(articles of food and drink, duty free) ; £205,302 in
the section of "animals, living, for food," and

other smaller amounts ; the " increases " being in
metals(£737,542); miscellaneous articles (£107.291) ;
also manufactured articles, raw materials for sundry
industries, &c., with a total of £94,249. Our usual
extract from the "summary " table is as follows : —

Imports.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

£

£

£

Total value

43,412,8 '■'

41,492,388

—1,920,411

(A.) Articles of food
and drink — duty
free

14,804,777

13,645,290

—1,249,487

(B.) Articles .if fo »l
& driok — dutiable

2,242,124

2,200,597

—35,527

Raw materials for
textile manufac-
tures

7,787,05lJ

(5,4011,529

—1,330,527

Raw materials for
sundry industries
and manufactures

3,635,334

..;.<; is,s;-j

413.53S

(A.) miscellaneous
articles

1,897,638

1,504,919

+ 107,-:;ii

(B.) Parcel Post ...

141,117

112,091

—29,023

We may note that Hops figure for £5S,S63,
against £63,063 in March, 1S9S: seeds (including
Clover and grass, equal £89,424 last mouth,
£127,329 same month last year), were entered to
the value of £582,119, against £601,425 in" the
same period IS9S. The value of timber anil wood
figure at £(i37, 190, against £641,755 for March in
1898. We pass on now to the enumeration of
fruit, roots, and vegetables, imported in the last
month as follows : —

Imports.

1898.

1899.

Differ

Pi nits, raw : —

Apples ...

bush.

160,779

231,931

+71,152

Grapes ...

• >

1,649

2,880

t 1,231

Lemons...

• „

107,311

ii '.

1, 157,443

4 334,597

Pears

,,

3,153

1,030

— 123

riums ...

Mil

5S

—32

Unenumerated

,.

68,701

76,385

■

Onions

„

!,059

4-12

Potato* ...

. cwt.

67,894

—567,973

Vegetables, raw,

111'T.llf 1 ..

uneiiu.
. value

£109,289

£129,200

4-£U' 1 1

We may, too, refer to the loss of the steamship
Labrador aud its cargo of first-class Canadian
Apples which latter, after lloatiug about the coast
in barrels, fell to the lot of island youth and cattle,
with neither of whom did the sodden fruit agree.
The minus figures in the above table are well worth
consideration by the cautious grower; the plus
quantities have long since been thoroughly appre-
ciated. The total of the three months' report is
£118,242,584, against £119,099,209— a decrease of
£856,625. The final section of the paragraph is
devoted to our

Extorts.

These have gone up somewhat — the total for last
month being placed at £22,324,401, as against
£20,833,865 for the same month in 1898 — or an
increase of £1,490,536. The greatest increase is in
ships, new, not registered as British (not recorded
prior to 1899), of £1,474,007. The items of
decrease foot up at £70S,063 ; those of iucrease
(apart from ships, including £185,860 for machinery
and millwork), give £725,132. It may be noted
that orders for railway works, including locomo-
tives, have found their way from this country into
Belgium and the United States, aud this is men-
tioned as derogatory to our workmen ; we believe
the fact is, that our great factories are now and
have long been overloaded with orders. The
figures for the past three months are £62,054,941,
against £57,707,118 for the same period last year —
a gain of £4,346,923.

The Royal Society.— The list of candidates
for election this year contains no fewer than
seventy-six names. Of these only fifteen can be
elected. The Council will recommend to the

Fellows that certain candidates be elected, and
the Fellows will adopt or reject the nomination of
the Council as they think fit, substituting some
other name or names for those that they eliminate.
How much simpler and less costly is this system
than the troublesome and wasteful method of
election adopted by our gardening charities. Can-
vassing is, of course, wholly prohibited. Among
the candidates this year, we notice the following
botanists : — Mr. J. S. Gamble, the author of the
Manual cm Indian Timbers, and the Monograph
of Bambusece : Mr. W. P. Hiern, the author of
numerous monographs, and of the Catalogue of
Welwitseh's African Plants ; Clement lieid, of
the Geological Survey ; Dr. Schlich, Professor of
Forestry at Cooper's Hill ; and Professor Perceval
\Y right.

"Botanical Magazine."— In the April num-
ber the editor gives an account of the appearance
in his garden of a variety of Impatiens called—

Impatiens Roylei var. pallidiflora. — Tho plant
differs from the common type in its taller stature,
longer leaves and Mowers, the latter being of a pale
lilac colour spotted with rose-coloured spots. The
plant is supposed to be a native of the Sikkim
Himalaya ; t. 7647.

Cereus Paxtonianus. -This columnar Cereus is
now seen to be specifically the same as C. Caven-
dishi with which it has been united by Si mil \\\.
The native country is unknown. The flowers are
nearly 4 inches across, greenish Mushed with rose
on the outer, white on the inner surface of the
petals, Kew ; t. 764S.

Sileni Fortunei, Visiani. — A common Chinese
plant originally introduced by Fortune. It is a
perennial with oblong linear leaves aud terminal
cymose clusters of rose-coloured (lowers, with deeply
laciuiatc petals, Kew ; t. 7649.

Yucca data, Engelmaun. — A native of Arizona,
recently introduced to Kew. It has a branching
stem about a yard high, with broad-based leaves
suddeuly contracting iuto linear blades, tiliferous
at the margins. The inflorescence is a many-Mowered
panicle, Mowers broadly campanulate, about 4 ins.
across, greenish white ; t. 7650.

Incarvillea variabilis, Batalin. — A beautiful
perennial with deeply pinnately divided foliage, and
racemes of rosy-lilac tlowers. The corolla is over
an inch long, with a narrow yellow tube expanding
iuto an oblique, 5-lobed, spreadiug limb. It is a
native of Western China ; t. 7651.

The Gardeners' Company.— A meeting of
the court was held on Thursday, April 6. Mr.
W. A. Bilney was admitted to the freedom and
livery. A scheme for admitting members of the
craft and working gardeners to the Company's
freedom, and for granting trade certificates of
competency on the result of an examination under
the auspices of the Company, was laid before the
court by Mr. C. Welch. After considerable dis-
cussion, the scheme was referred to a committee,
consisting of the Master (Sir William Farmer), Mr.
X. N. Sherwood, Mr. C. Welch, and the Clerk
(Mr. R. Gofton-Salmond). It was also decided to
proceed with a new 'edition of the short account
of the company which was issued in 1890. A pro-
posal to prepare a history of the company and of
gardening in the City of London was also favourably
received, and reserved for fuller consideration.
Among those present were Colonel T. Davies
Sewell, Mr. J. Curtis, Mr. C. E. Osman, Mr. A.
Barker, Mr. Beaumont Shepheard, Mr. G. Corbie,
Mr. H. Wood, Mr. R. L. Devonshire, Mr. H.
Haines, and Mr. K. I. Tasker. Sir William
Farmer, at the close of the business, entertained
the members of the court at Dinner at the City
Carlton Club, St. Swithin's Lane, Mr. W. A.
Bilney, the newly-elected liveryman, being the
guest of the evening. City Prt is.

AMSTERDAM. — A large Mower-show will be
held next week in this city, under the auspices of
the " Natura Artis Magistra." It will be visited

234

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 15, 1899.

on the first day, Sunday, April 16, by H. M. the
Queen of the Netiieulands, and will remain
open for three days. On Monday afternoon an
explanatory lecture will be given by Mr. J. K.
BruiiE.

Horticulture apace with Civilisation.—
On the 8th inst. we received a letter from an estab-
lished florist and seedsman in Bulawayo, Rhodesia,
respecting a horticultural appliance he had seen
recently mentioned in these columns. It is gratify-
ing to find horticulture thus abreast with the
other civilising agencies.

Frost in Ceylon.— Mr. Nock writes to the
C'i ylon Observer a note on the frost which occurred
at Nuwara Eliya on March 7, 8, 9 last. At an
elevation of between 5000 and 5700 feet, Mr. Nock
made a list of about fifty species of plants that had
been more or less injured by frost, including native
species, as well as those like the Tree Tomato,
Richardia africana, and Eucalyptus robusta, which
have been introduced. Iu seventeen years' expe-
rience, Mr. Nock has never seen such an amount
of injury.

Ghent Certificates.— At the usual monthly
meeting of the Chambre Syndicate, presided over
by M. L. Drafs, the following Awards were
made : —

Certificates of merit.

For Cattleya Meudeli, Souvenir de Mdme.
Frederic Coryn, shown by M. E. Coryn.

Cliveia President Bruueel, shown by M. De
Yriessere-Remen.s.

Cocos Weddelliana gracillima and Anthurium
Rothschildianum by M. A. De Smet.

Cliveia Mdme. De Vriessere-Remeus, shown by
M. De Vriessere-Remk.ns.

For Cliveia Mdme. Jean Verbauen, by accla-
mation, Mr. J. Veuiiauen.

For Nieotiana athnis, shown by M. A. DALLlfcRE.

For Anthurium Scherzeriauum "Distinction,''
shown by Messrs. Veevaene-Vkuvaet et Cie.

Azalea Marie Antoinette, from the ''St. Fiacre "
establishment.

Cultural Certificates were awarded to —

Oncidium lamelligerum, shown by M. L. De
Smet-Duvivier.

Vaccinium Sprengeri, by Mr. E. De Co< k.

Epidendrum Wallisii, by M. L. De Smet-
Duvivier.

A Cultural Commendation.— Mr. B. L.
Hammett, of Trewhiddle Gardens, Cornwall,
obliges us with photographs of his plants of D.
Wardianum and D. crassinode. The cultivation is
admirable, as our readers will agree when it is
stated that a pseudo-bulb of the first-named variety
measured 3£ feet in length, and produced thirty
blooms. We have figured both plants on various
occasions.

Jobbing Gardeners.— It will be seen from
an article in another column that the Inland
Revenue authorities "do not require a licence to
be taken out for a jobbing gardener employed at
several places and working one or two days a week
at each." Where a man supplied by a nurseryman,
occupies his whole time, every day in the week, in
attending to one particular garden, then he must
be licensed. The liceuce must be taken out by the
nurseryman, not by the hirer of the gardener, and
the nurseryman must arrange with his customer as
to the payment of the impost by increasing the cost
of hire, or by curtailing the number of days per
week on which the man has to work, and so
escaping the liceuce altogether.

Emigration to the Colonies. — We learn
from the latest-issued circular of the Emigrants'
Information Office, that in Victoria there are
excellent openings, as a rule, for farmers, dairy-
farmers, and fruit-growers, if they have a little
capital, and some experience of the country. There
has been a general rainfall, and a very good
harvest, and the dairying industry has improved.
In New South Wales, at Uralla and Grafton in the

far north, there is a fair demand for farm labourers
and carpenters, and a good oue for servants.
Really skilled dairymen and thoroughly capable
farm labourers would probably have little diffi-
culty in obtaining employment in many parts of
the Colony. Domestic servants continue to be in
steady demand throughout the Colony, and the
last annual report of the Government Labour
Bureau draws attention to the difficulty of getting
them. There are more than enough of ladies'
helps, ladies' companions, and governesses. In
South Australia there is no improvement in the
demand for labour, except that there has been a
demand for married couples without families for
farms and stations ; about '2000 persons have
registered their names at the new Government
Labour Bureau. In Queensland there is a general
demand throughout the colony for ploughmen and
other farm labourers, and for female domestic
servants. Free passages are again being given to
labourers and female domestic servants ; and some
assistance towards their passages is also now being
given to farmers, market gardeners, dairymen, and
fruit-growers, and their families. Application must
be made to the Agent-general, ] , Victoria Street,
London, S. W. In Western Australia there is a
good demaud for farm labourers iu the south-west ;
and the mining industry continues to expand. The
assisted passages to the Colony have been dis-
continued.

DROPMORE, TAPLOW.— An account of this
famous home of Conifers, historical and otherwise,
appears iu this mouth's National Si vii »', from
the facile pen of the Hon. Mrs. BoVLE. Many of
our readers will recall with pleasure a series of
articles by this lady, writiug under the initials
"E. V. B.," which appeared iu the Gardeners'
Chronicle a few years ago.

" ROSES IN POTS."— The eighth edition of this
useful little book has been issued by SlMPKIN
Mabshall &Co., Paternoster Row. Nothing need
te said in farther commendation of so well tried a
book, unless it be to say that the list of Roses is
kept " up to date."

Brownea grandiceps {/lot. .1/-':/., 4859). — A
small plant of this handsome evergreen stove tree
(Leguminosa-), bearing a truss of blooms, may now
be seen in the Water- Lily- house, Royal Botanic
Society's Gardens, Regent's Park.

BOOKS. — In the current number of the
Tijdschrift Voor Tuinbouw, is a descriptive list of
works on landscape gardeniug and other branches
of gardening, by Mr. LEONARD A. SPRINGER. The
list is evidently one of much interest and import-
ance, but being compiled in the Dutch language it
is of little value to English readers.

Publications Recened.— Journal of the Boyid

Agricultural Society of England; March 31, contains an article
and Pail III. of an important paper on "Flower and Fruit
Fannin- in England," by W. E. I3ear ; as well as communica-
tions relating to "Hedges, and Hedge-making," W. J.
Maiden. — Journal oj Botany, April, including "Notes mi
Mycetozoa," by Arthur Lister : " Botanical Excursions in
Donegal," H. ('. Hart; "Relationships of tin- Indefinite
Inflorescences," E. A. Newell Arber ; " Alabastra diversa,"
Spencer Lc M. Moore ; and " Merionethshire Mosses," J. E.
Bagnall, &c, -Experiments with Crops and Stocl in Cumber-
land, Durham, and Northumberland (Annual Report of the
County Councils for 1898), by William Somerville.— Observa-
tions on th\ Cultivation of Roses in Pots, William Paul (eighth
edition).— Paa/wici uticaX Journal. — Agricultural Economist. —
The Strength and Decay of Nations, by Giles Andrew Daubeny
(Timber News Offices, Liverpool and London ; and Sinrpkin,
Marshall, Hamilton, Kent & Co.) These are two articles on
Forestry and on British Forestry, the former having pre-
viously appeared in Nature Nites. The author's opinion is
that "forests are destroyed with most disastrous results,
involving the ruin of climate favourable to life, and to the
impoverishment and eventual downfall of once powerful
nations. — Agricultural Journal, Cape of Good Hope, March 2,
includes various reports, a letter from Mr. Mayer, of Stellen-
bosch, recommending, on the authority of M. Henri Coupin,
of Sarbonne, cyanide of potassium, solution of 1 per cent.
siren dli. as a remedy for Phylloxera on Vines ; a paper on the
11 Science of Fruil free Fruitfulness Simplified," and similar
communications. — Tropical Agi iculturist, March, witharticles
on Tea-bushes and their Enemies, Planting in l'erak ;
Planting Coffee, Rubber, Tea, Cotton, Sugar, 4c, in Brazil;

Vanilla, Plantain or Banana-meal, and so on.— Indian Gar-
timing, March 16, and Index to vol. iii., July to December,
1898.— Annual Report <>n Government Gardens and Parks ><>
Mysore, for the year 1897-98. " The information furnished
as regards the cultivation of hybrid Coffee and of Potato-
tubers deserves particular notice. The season was good, and
garden culture on the whole successful. It is satisfactory to
note that attention is paid to sericulture."— Ann ""' Report
of Botanic Gard> its, St. George , Grenada, lSiiT, by W. E. Broad-
way, Curator. This is satisfactory on the whole, though the
absence of the Curator was much felt while he was officially
visiting the peasant proprietors of Carriacon and the Grenada
parishes, examining the produce, and in a general way
instructing those willing to receive hints concerning the
founding and fostering of minor products and husbandry for
pleasure and profit.— Annual Report of tin- Secretary for Agri-
culture, Nova Scotia, for 1S9S. A statement of work done
during the year, and an abstractor the Reports of Agricul-
tural Societies. — Nova Scotia: its Agricultural Resources, by
B. W. Chipinau, Secretary for Agriculture, Nova Scotia. A
pamphlet "for agricultural emigrants who maybe induced
to look to Nova Scotia as a Held for their labours." A useful
map of the province is included.— The 1899 Supph went !■> New
Creationsin Fruitsand Flowers, from Burbank's Experiment
Farms, Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California.— An Apple
Cinder, W. Paddock, New York Agricultural Experiment
Station, Geneva, N.Y. — Minnesota Botanical Studies, Part II.
(2nd series), February 22, contains articles on Seedlings of
certain Woody Plants, Francis Ramaley ; and Comparative
Anatomy of the hypocotyl and cpicotyl in Woody Plants,
Francis Ramaley ; Contribution to the life-history of Rumcx,
Bruce Fink ; Observations on Gigartina, Mary E. Olson ; Seed
Dissemination and Distribution of Razoumofskya robusta
(Engelm.), Kuntze, D. T. MacDougal; Constanlinea, E. M.
Freeman ; Extension of Plant ranges in the Upper Minnesota
Valley, L. R. Moyer ; and Hepaticce collected along the Inter-
national Boundary, by J. M. Holziuger, 1SU7, Alexander
W. Evans.— Botanical Gazettt (Chicago, Illinois), March. This
contains, among other things, Notes on the Structure of the
embryo-sac in Sparganium and Lysichiton, D. II. Campbell ;
Geological Relations of the Vegetation of the Sand Hones Of
Lake .Muhigan, II. C. Cowles ; New CoUetotrichum Disease of
the Pansy, Ii. E. Smith; New Biennial, Fruited Oak. E. J.
Hill; Wyoming Species of Antennaria and New Colorado
Antennaria, Elias Nelson.— 77re American Florist (Chicago
ami New York). — The Weekly Florists' Review (Chicago and
New Yoik).— Among suggestions for useful horticultural
appliances, we find hero sketches of a telescopic " bucket,"
which can be extended for long-stemmed and contracted for
small flowers ; a "finger-knife" for severing the stems of
Carnations and other plants, and consisting of a thimble,
with a sharp blade set in the top; and a "smoker," con-
trived from second-hand stove-pipe.— Gardening! (Chicago),
Marcli 15, with a good article on Freesias. — American Gar-
dening (New York), March IS. — The Florists Excltangi (New-
York), March 18 (Special Spring Trade Edit.) and 26. — Tournal
Uorticole et Viticole (Bordeaux), April. — Semaine Hortioole <i
lit vue des Cultures Coloniales (27, Roe du Chatelain, Brussels),
April 1. — Revue <i< V Horticulture Beige et Etrangere (Ghent),
April 1, witli descriptions and coloured tignres of Azalea
imlica, "Ceres," and Ligustrum japonicum var. — Gcnschel's
Ml:j,, mine Gtlrtner-BorH (Gera, Reuss), March 26. — Wiener
llluslrirte Garten Zcitung, March. — M oiler's Deutsche Gartner

/•iinn:/ (Erfurt), April 1.— lYjdschrift I r Tuinbouw,

April '.', 10, including a paper by L. A. Springer, and coloured
plate of Rubus sorbifolius, and a Review of Horticultural
Literature, by the same author.

AZALEAS.

Azalea .sinensis. — The beautiful seedlings
raised by M. Anthony Koster are said to be
hybrids between A. mollis and A. sinensis.
There is clearly some blunder here, as these two
names belongiug to one and the same species, the
correct name of which is Rhododendron or Az ilea
sinensis. The following extract from the Botanical
Magazine, t. 5905(1871) maybe accepted as con-
clusive evidence ou that point : — "Rhododendron
sinense, Sweet, syns. R. molle, Sieb. & Zucc. ;
Azalea sinensis, Lodd. ; A. mollis, R,egel ; A. japo-
uica, A. Gray. Botanists are now pretty well
agreed iu considering that Azalea can no longer be
considered a distinct genus from Rhododendron. . . .
I have therefore followed the eminent Japanese
traveller and botanist, Maximovvicz, in assuming
Sweet's old name of Rhododendron sinense for the
Azalea mollis of more recent authors. R. sineuse is a
native of Alpine shrublauds in Japan, and is also
cultivated both in Japan and China, whence it was
introduced into England, lirst in 1834, and again
by Fortune iu 1845."

Mr. Hemsley, in his Index Flora Sinensis, adopts
the same view, and adds Liudley's Azalea pontics,
var. sinensis, as a synonym (Bot. Mag., t. 1233).
The plant is unquestionably wild iu China as well
as in Japan, having been collected in Ningpo ,
Meichi, Kiangsi, Fokien, and Hupeh.

April 15, 1890.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

235

Probably the plant known as R. Binense was
almost forgotten when it re-appeared twenty years
later under its new name of Azalea mollis ; and as
there were known to be several colonred varieties
of it, they have come to be looked upon as repre-
senting two distinct species. Whatever the origin
of M. Koster's plants may have been, and I do not
see any other species than sinense in mauy of
them, they are clearly not hybrids, but colour
forms of sinensis, unless he has used some of the
" Ghent Azaleas" for his crosses. These have been
crossed with It. sinense by several breeders, in-
cluding Mr. A. Waterer and Mr. Isaac Davies.
The Earl of Carnarvon also raised some hybrids
between R. sinense and the North American R.
viscosum. The Ghent nurserymeu, especially M.
Van Houtte, did much to improve and diversify
R. sinense.

Ghent Azaleas are the outcome of various mix-
tures between the North American species, calen-
dulaceum, viscosum, uudillorum, &e., and the
l'ontie Azalea, now known as R. flavum. According
to Loudon, Messrs. Lee & Kennedy were the lirst to
produce hybrids from these species in this country.
They were followed by Osborne, of Fulham, the
Waterers of Woking, aud Loddiges of Hackney,
who enumerated 107 kiuds in his catalogue nearly
eighty years ago. A Belgian baker, named Mor.
tier, also raised mauy hybrids and seedliugs, and
his work was continued by Van Cassel, Verschalfelt,
Van Houtte, and others, with such success that
the plants became very popular, aud were known
a Ghent Azaleas.

It does not appear to be generally known that
R. sinense (molle) is hardy in the .South of Eng-
land ; it is one of the most beautiful of the many
tine Rhododendrons grown in the open air at Blew.

w. w.

Home Correspondence.

Fig, ST. — erica pkopendens: colotjb of run flowbks kosv-itrple.
(See " Erica CiiamissoDis,1' p. 228.

OLD-TIME GARDENING. —Perhaps no reader of
the Gardener^ Chronicle, wheu he perused the
pages of the last issue, could have felt greater
interest in the paragraph on " Loddiges, and Steam-
heating," given on p. "2 1 :i, than the writer of this
uote ; for it called up old associations never to lie
forgotten. I was a gardener in those bygone days,
and during the years of 1843-44, I had charge of,
besides other plant-structures which were heated
by hot-water pipes, a very large conservatory
which was heated by steam, and in attending to
my duties at all times and seasons I can call to
mind, although so mauy years have gone by,
the immense pleasure I felt in discharging the
duties which devolved on me. I seemed to be in a
veritable paradise, although my abode was but a
bothy, aud my wages twelve shillings a week. I
can remember the inmates of this huge structure,
some of which were 30 feet high, including some
grand specimen Camellias, furnished in their
season with hundreds of well-developed blooms,
notably the "old double white," which was intro-
duced into this country in 1S24 as C. japonica
ilore-pleno alba ; also Lady Hume's Blush, which was
then a great favourite, as well as many others of
different shades of colours. At the times to which
I refer, this conservatory had been in use a great
mauy years, and was one in which Sweet, the
botanical writer, had laboured, perhaps before I
had commenced my gardeniug career, which dates
from 1832 ; but everything about the structure
was in good werkiDg order. If my memory serves
me aright, the boiler contained 500 gallons of
water, and was furnished with steam and water-
gauges, aud all other required appliances. The
steam-pipes were conveyed through a subterranean
tunnel, and traversed a very considerable distance
before they entered beneath the stone flooring of the
conservatory. The heat was admitted to the house
through numerous neatly-designed gratings iixed
into Portland-stone pathways. How sweet was
the atmosphere ! how lovely were the numerous
plants ! what an enjoyable parade in winter and
summer '. G. F., F.Ii.H.S.

AMERICAN METHODS OF JUDGING THE CAR-
NATION.— The American Carnation Society has
lately held a convention, at which a new scale of

236

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 13, 1S9P.

points in judging was discussed and formulated.
One hundred points is the maximunn, aud this
number is divided as follows : colour, 25 ; size, 20 ;
calyx, 5 ; stem, 20; substance, 10 ; form, 15 ; and
fragrance, 5. This appears to be somewhat cum-
brous to English tastes, but the justification is
found in the fact that it appears to work well.
Further, the convention takes cognizance of the
nomenclature of the flowers, registering the names
of new varieties, possibly with a view to prevent
any confusion from synonyms ; and it is intended
to prepare and issue a complete alphabetical
list of Carnations, with descriptions, and the
names of the introducers. Something like this
has been done in the case of both the Chrysau-
themum and the Dahlia in this country, and seeing
that the Carnation has become one of our most
popular flowers, and having regard also to the
fact that the National Carnation Society has
uow grown into an important organisation, it is
worthy of consideration whether some court of
appeal, such as that existing iu the United States,
should not lie set here. There is, of course, an
iiuwritteu law of quality observed in this country,
but nothing on the authority of the National
Society has been set up. George Glenny's sum-
mary of qualities, excellent in their comprehen-
siveness, was drawn up some years ago, and was
intended to apply only to exhibition flowers ; since
then the Carnation has become revolutionised, aud
an intelligent system of classification should be put
forward. The idea is worthy the attention of the
committee of the National Society. Florist.

EARLY POTATOS. — Already a seedling early
Potato has been placed before the Fruit Committee
of the Royal Horticultural Society, and has, of
course, been remitted to Chiswick for trial. But
the representative of one of our leading Potato
linns recently made complaint that very early
Potatos had little chance of distinguishing them-
selves at Chiswick when grown with a mixed col-
lection of varieties, because they were not examined
until a sufficient number of mid-season and later
varieties were ready, and then the first earlier
when lifted looked poor in comparison. I have ex-
pressed a wish, which I trust will be acted
upon, that seeing what a wealth of late strong-
growing varieties there are in commerce, and
how important it is, not only for private
work, but also for market purposes, that we should
have the best possible of precocious varieties, the
Potato trial at Chiswick next year should be
limited to First Earlies only, and if so, I trust that
a great effort will be made to obtain stocks for the
purpose of every known good early variety in
commerce. First early Potatos are largely lifted
for use in an unripe condition. For that reason,
one examination as to cropping capacity and size
of tuber, should be made early iu July, aud a
second aud final one to test matured cropping
qualities, aud also cooked quality, some three
weeks later. We should then have ample oppor-
tunity to discern how far the Ashleaf Kidney,
for of this old variety, differences exist chiefly in
name, has been ousted from its long proud position
as a first early by newer varieties. A. D.

CAMELLIAS. — With reference to the paragraph
of " E. H. S.," in your last issue, many of your
readers who are not acquainted with the habits of
the Camellia would be glad if he will kindly afford
them information as to the best time for repotting,
surfacing, and pruning the plants, these being
matters not much noticed in calendarial instruc-
tions. Are all varieties equally well adapted for
plautiug iu borders ? B. C. [Will some cultivator
oblige by narrating his experience? Ei>.]

SALADS IN ENGLAND.— Mr. Milne-Redhead, at
p. 220 of the Gardeners' Chronicle, does well
to ask why we so much neglect salads? I was
once foreman at Sidmouth, when the hotel was a
private establishment, nearly a quarter of a century
ago. There was then no great difficulty in obtain-
ing good salads there at this season, as we could
winter soft bedding plants safely without glass
protection. In many gardens I can give one cause
why there is such a scarcity of salads at this season,
and the fault is not the gardener's. Every frame
aud other glass protection is crowded with bedding
plants, and without glass in many places salads
cannot be grown satisfactorily. Much also depends
upon the demand that exists, for those who
have to provide a regular supply will be
sure to have better materials than others who
only have spasmodic calls made upon them. Then

it should be remembered that a wet winter is
more disastrous than a drier, though colder one, as
so many of the Lettuce decay at the collar then, and
are lost. In such situations as that of which Mr.
Milne-Redhead writes, there should be no scarcity
of Lettuces ; but the question arises, do the persons
interested at Sidmouth trouble about a supply ?
The soil of the garden is good, and the situation
of the garden one of the best I ever was in. Many
growers will admit that Lettuces are not a safe
crop in some localities. This year we planted out
some thousands of plants on sloping borders early in
October, and now we have only a few hundreds left,
owing to the excessive moisture. It may be asked,
Why plant out Lettuces in the autumn, when
failure is so probable ? Those plants that are saved
grow away quickly in the spring, and iu hard
weather it is easy to cover them with dry bracken
or long litter. We cannot give all our Lettuces
the protection of glass, nor is it desirable, as the
spring plants in the open, when they tide over a
winter, are most valuable. I am well aware that
many growers sow a large area of Lettuces iu
August, and leave them in the seed-beds until
March or April ; but of course this does
not provide a winter supply, though they will be
valuable for spring use. Rut there have been
great losses amongst even these, owing to new growth
having been made early, and subsequently injured.
But we are not totally dependent on Lettuces for
salads, though there is nothing equal to them in
quality. A fair salad may be made with such
things as Endive, Dandelion, Chicory, and Celery ;
the first three, when well blanched, are not at all
bad. For use in a salad, when all is cut up iu the
salad-bowl, for home supply I have frequently sown
Lettuce seed thickly, and cut over the plants in a
young state. Endives winter well ; and there is no
difficulty with the Batavian varieties. These plants
should lie plentiful in Devon and Cornwall, and with
glass protection such Lettuces asGoldeu Queen, sown
early in the year, will be ready in three to four
months from the time of sowing. I fear we do not
pay enough attention to winter salads, and to
obtain them (Lettuce especially) needs considerable
eare. The season has been a most difficult one,
but we certainly could grow more salads by giving
them timely shelter. The best measure of success
can only be obtained in our variable climate by
the use of glass protection, but good judgment in
sowing aud planting is also required, as the plants
do not winter well if too large, and small ones if
late sown stand no chance. 0. Wythes.

In an article in the Gardeners' Chronicl

of April 8, p. 220, signed " R. Milne- Bed-
head," concerning English salads, the writer
prefaces his remarks with the question, " Why
do English gardeners so much neglect salads ? "
The writer then mentions a favourable locality
in southern Devon where early salads would be
easy to grow compared with other less favour-
able districts. Yet, notwithstanding the magni-
ficent surroundings of choice trees aud shrubs,
flowering and otherwise, with conservatories, kit-
chen-gardens, and other accessories that go to
make up a modern hotel, R. Milne-Redhead deplores
the absence of the humble salad. As a case
in point, R.. Milne-Redhead mentions the north
of France, where the climatic conditions are
much worse than in Devon, and yet salads
are grown in quantity, and served at each meal.
Ah ! that is the point, as undoubtedly the demand
would be greater there than in England ; or per-
haps the growers iu northern France cau make a
better turnover by growing salad than by other
branches of gardening. If there really was a good
aud general demand for salads here at remunerative
prices, there can be no doubt that hotel-keepers,
who are usually keen men of business, would be
equal to the occasion, and would supply good
salads. Lest it should be understood by the un-
informed that English gardeners cannot grow early
salads, I give a list of salads with which I am sup-
plying my employer's table, viz. — Mustard-and-
Oress, Cucumber, Lettuce, Radishes, Celery, and
Chicory ; but then early salads are in especial
request, and they may be grown under less
favourable atmospheric conditions than those
which obtain in South Devon. D. C, Hanger
Hill House, Ealing, W.

PRIMULA OBCONICA AN IRRITANT.— I dare not
let the foliage nor even the flowers come into con-
tact with my skin. The irritation thus caused has
been most painful, and has continued for several

days. The affected skin has the appearance of
blisters, and eventually peels off. I have tied a
piece of linen, or put a piece of sticking-plaster
over the place when it was possible, to keep it from
being rubbed, which increases the irritation.
J. Mayne, Birton Gardens, Devonshire.

PRIMULA SINENSIS LEAVES CAUSING IRRITA-
TION TO SKIN. — In the Gardeners' Chronicle of
April 1 there is a notice of the above by Mr. J. R.
Wilson. A few years ago, wheu the discussion
was renewed about the skin-irritation caused by
P. obconiea, a gentleman from the north wrote to
me, stating that lie know of a case in which this
nuisance was caused by the leaves of Primula
sinensis. He said he had no doubt about it, as the
person who had been afflicted had no P. obconiea,
but only the P. sinensis. I then brought the fact
to the notice of Dr. Masters, with whom I had
been iu correspondence about P. obconiea. He
replied that the fact, if it was a fact, was new to
him. Now, is it not possible that there may be
some source of error regarding the irritatiou caused
by the leaves of P. sinensis? When I was
living in London, a few years ago, during
cold weather, both my hands became covered with
a most irritating sort of eczema. The skin of both
hands, palms, aud backs, between the fingers aud
round the wrists, became dry with cracks iu various
places, and the itching was so great that I felt I
could tear the skiu off my hands with my nails.
This irritation preveuted me from sleeping. I
consulted a doctor, who told me the best thing for
that sort of ailment is " Burroughs and Welcombe's
Icthyol ointment," a black sort of ointment, with
a peculiar odour, sold in tubes. I got some, and
rubbed it every night on my hands. It did not
cure the affection, but it mitigated the irritatiou
very much. After this long story, what I am
coming to is this : I had neither P. obconiea, nor
P. sinensis, indeed no plants whatever. Iu my
opiuiou the dry, rough, and irritatiug affection of
my hands, was the result of the cold aud dry N.E.
wind, for when the wind changed to a warm and
moist S.W., all the affection disappeared, Herein
Worthing this season, the same thing happened on
two occasions. When il blew N.E., the hands
became rough, sore, and extremely itchy. Wheu
it blew S.W., the whole thing went away. In this
case also, I had neither of the Primulas. I write
all this story because possibly the case referred to
by Mr. J. R. Wilson, may be quite uncon-
nected with any handling of Primula sinensis.
E. Bonavia, M.D.

MARKET GARDENING IN THE

CHANNEL ISLANDS: JERSEY.

{Concluded from p. 222.)

Mu. Philip le Cornet's Nursery. — The first
feature one sees upon the nursery at Almorah is a
broad walk which runs through the grounds. On
either side are borders tilled with choice trees and
shrubs. This avenue, for so it really is, includes
many tine specimen Coiiifene, and at stated dis-
tances are pairs, one on each side, of Silver Limes,
Copper Beech, Silver Map'.es, Tulip-trees, Golden
Poplar, Purple Sycamore, Cercis Siliquastrum,
Pawlonia imperialis, Ailauthus glandulosa, Prunus
Pissaidi, Mountain Ash, and other species of orna-
mental trees, which are well established. Hardy
shrubs are grown in very large quantities. Roses
and fruit-trees are the specialties grown most
extensively. Many of the climbing Roses are
worked on the French Grifferaie stock, but for
dwarfs and Teas the seedliug Briar and Manetti
stocks are freely used. The whole of the stock
was iu capital condition. Such varieties as Mare-
chal Niel, W. Allen Richardson, and Gloire do
Dijon are growu in greatest numbers.

Much of the nursery ground is divided into
squares of good size, having a row of close-growing
dwarf Poplars planted between them, to afford
shelter, and break the force of the winds : for here
the winds are sometimes very keen aud strong. In
such divisions, Pear, Apple, Plum, and Peach-
trees are growu, and they are in most robust health,
the pyramids and cordons being all that could be
desired. Where it is possible, I would advise the
planting of cordons. If there be only room for oue
or two, use the space for just that number ; but if
a good length of wall needs to be covered in this

April 15, 1899.)

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

237

way, then plant a dozen trees of a sort, and even
more if it is convenient. Do not plant a dozen
different sorts, so that all will be represented by a
single cordon.

It is better tliat cordons should lean away from
the sun rather than towards it ; by this means the
wood generally receives a greater amount of sun-
shine, the fruit is the better exposed, and ripens
more regularly. Some of the cordons had ripening
fruits upon them, but those are precocious, and it
is after removal that tliey promise an abundant
return, Pyramidal trees were also very interest-
ing ; these are almost all four years old — stout,
well-formed trees, with good shoots and laterals.
Well-formed standard fruit-trees were numerous ;
while of Peaches and Nectarines, Cherries, &c. , the
stock is very large, and the trees are in good heart.
Cordon Gooseberries were a feature that looked
very well. A great number of sorts of these are
grown, and a selection can always be made of
the best.

It was interesting to uoticc the various systems
of training Mr. le Cornu had adopted : the oblique

and in many instances are G and S feet high. Such
specimens were Eulalia zebrina and E. gracilis.
Ariindo Donax variegata, many Bamboos of sorts,
Phormium tenax, Charmerops exoelsa, and Musa
Eusete with a stem 4 feet in circumference, and
leaves 8 feet ia length. This Musa had remained
out all last winter, with a little protective material
wrapped round it.

[Froma Special Correspondent.]

Colonial Notes.

AUSTRALIAN BLACKBERRYLAND.

Blackberries are so intimately associated with
leafy hedgerows in English country lanes, that the
idea of their growing in rich luxuriance in a land
where the order of natural history, as known in the
Mother Country, is popularly supposed to be
reversed, where the stones of Cherries grow out-
side the fruit, and trees shed their bark iustead of
their leaves ; yet there is nothing strange or incon-

PlO, 88.— A CCOD MARKET APPLE, " BARN ACE BEAUTY.

cordons on walls and wire fences, the horizontal for
the margins of beds and borders, the upright and
the diamond-fence pattern for various positions.

My attention was directed to a method practised
here in the matter of budding Peaches. When
a bud has been inserted a Plum-bud has also
been put in the same stock a little above that of
the Peach. Rarely do they both fail, and some-
times both buds would take ; it is then au easy
matter to rub out the growth of the Plum, and
preserve that of the Peach. This no-risk system
is practised here in the case of many other fruit-
trees aud shrubs.

Herbaceous plants are given considerable atten-
tion. A large quantity of Dahlias are giown.

There is a large Spanish Chestnut-tree said to be
190 years old. It is said that the tree was planted
by a silk-weaver from Spitalfields, one of the
Huguenots who had fled from France, settled iu
London, and made a fair competency. Afterwards
the family came to Jersey to reside, and brought
from London a Chestnut which was planted, aud
has grown thus vigorously.

Of singular interest is a border we noticed, for
in it each plant is a specimen many feet through,

gruous in Euglish wild fruits thriving in a country
where every description of fruit and flower known
iu Great Britain thrives iu perfection. The Sweet-
briar, such a favourite iu English cottage-gardens,
grows so rapidly in Australia as to become an
agricultural pest ; and in parts of New South
Wales the Blackberry is so prolilic that the fruit
is gathered by the ton, iu place of the bushel or
hundredweight with which English Blackberry-
gatherers are familiar. The Blackberry is finest
and most abundant on the coast a few miles
south of Sydney ; and Bulli, one of the
leading coastal townships, inhabited chiefly by
miners employed iu the neighbouring collieries, is
rapidly becoming a centre for the annual export of
many tons of the delicious fruit. Rising gradually
from the coast are the extensive Illawarra moun-
tain ranges, aud in not a few places on the slopes
of these, on the lofty summits, and in clearings,
the Blackberry bushes occupy many acres of
ground. Paddocks which have been cleared and
fenced, for cultivation or pasturage, offer no bar to
the advance of the brambles. In more than one
instance owners of land have long since ceased to
tight the growth, which even bush fires but tem-

porarily retard, so find it more congenial to lease
their holdings for a small rental to the pickers,
who, as a rule, have anything but an easy time of
it. The bushes grow in a most irregular way, pre-
senting in most cases a compact mass of Thorn and
Briar many yards deep and several feet high.
To reach every part of this mass of entanglement
is the Blackberry picker's aim. Vet he succeeds
in doing so, and may spend a day at one spot,
forcing his way through the bushes as best he can.
Generally, he will cut a narrow track to the heart
of the bushes, and, establishing a centre at that
point, " work " the bushes cleanly and systema-
tically. Billies, buckets, aud tins receive the fruit,
which may then have to be carried some distance,
perhaps right into the township, before being dis-
posed of. Most of the Blackberry pickers are
coalminers, and they have the assistance of their
wives and families. The systematic gathering of
the fruit commenced a few years ago. In 1894,
4 tons of Blackberries were sent by rail from Bulli to
Sydney. In 1S95, the quantity was 17 tons ; in
1897 it had risen to 28 tons ; in 1898, to 35 tons ;
and this year it is expected to reach 100 tons. The
Blackberries are purchased, as they are picked, by
a local dealer, who finds the demand already
exceeding the supply. The berries are collected
in carts stationed at suitable points, and sent,
packed in tins, to Sydney. In some instances, 30s.
per ton is paid for the right of entering lands and
picking the fruit. Carting is estimated to cost 10,».
per ton, and I'M 6». per ton is paid the pickers,
being at the rate of Id. per lb. That there are
some smart pickers in the district may be gauged
from the fact that the net gain to one family in a
single fortnight has been £6. Another good family
of pickers has delivered 400 lb. weight of fresh
Blackberries, the result of one day's work. With
the exception of Western Australia aud Queens-
land, the bulk of the jam made from the Bulli
Blackberries is consumed iu New South Wales,
the duty on sugar prohibiting much export.
Allowing for evaporation of the water iu the fruit,
it is computed that one ton of Blackberries will
turn out about 1J ton of jam, or 4,000 lib. tins.
The greatest demand for Blackberry jam appears
to be in the Newcastle district — the Australian
"black country," aud chief source of coal supply
iu the southern hemisphere. A Correspondent.

APPLE "BARNACK BEAUTY."

The variety of Apple, Barnack Beauty, is
known to a number of gardeners, and more
especially to such as cultivate Apples for market
purposes. Indeed, it was to mark the Committee's
sense of its usefulness in this respect that the
variety was giveu an Award of Merit. The fruits
are medium in size, or occasionally larger, greenish
yellow in colour, streaked with red. The flesh is
very firm, aud the fruits may be kept until April
or even May, and they are very valuable for
kitchen use. The tree is a great bearer, aud is
described as upright in habit, especially when
grown as a pyramid on Crab or Paradise stocks. It
also forms a good medium-sized standard. The fruit
sketched by our artist, and shown in fig. 8S, were
staged at the Drill Hall, March 14 last, by Mr.
Gilbert, Dykebourue House Gardens, Lincolnshire.

Law Notes.

INLAND REVENUE «,-. TREEBY.

At a meeting held in Manchester, at the
warehouse of Messrs. Wm. Clibran & Son, on
February 23, a communication (a copy of which is
given below), received by Mr. E. Collins through
Sir John Wm. Maclure, Bart., M.P., was read.

Considerable discussion ensued, but eventually,
on the proposition of Mr. C. Noyes, it was agreed
that the appeal entered by Mr. Treeby should be
withdrawn. It was thought that the view taken

238

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[April IS, 1899.

by the Treasury was guiding, if not wholly satis-
factory, and would enable members of the trade to
understand their position iu taking contracts in
the future, where the services of a man were
required most days of the week throughout the
year. The view taken, in the face of the letter,
was that it would be a mistake to continue the
proceedings.

The lateness of the date in sending you this com-
munication has arisen, firstly, that the sanction of
Sir J. Wm. Maclure had to be obtained for the
publication of the Treasury letter ; and secondly,
in a letter received from the solicitor to the Nursery
and Seed Trade Association, it was thought advisable
not to give publicity to the Treasury letter until
several points were made clearer, and steps were
being taken to get a further opinion from the
Treasury.

It may prove of interest to those who have
followed this case, to peruse the underuoted letter,
&c— H. Watkins.

Oldrield Nurseries, Altrincham, Apr. G, 1899.

Treasury Chambers, Whitehall, S.W.,
February 20, 1899.
"Dear Sir,— I duly reported to the Chancellor of the
Exchequer the representations as to the summons against
Mr. Treeby which were made by you ami the gentlemen who
accompanied you on your visit to the Treasury on the 13th
instant, and he has now received a full report from the Board
of Inland Revenue on the subject.

It was clear, botli from the papers you left at the Treasury
and from what passed at our interview, that it is not so much
the decision in the particular case of Mr. Treeby that has
aroused the apprehension of the nurserymen, as the im-
pression evidently current in your constituency, that the
decision will lead to a change of practice by the Inland
Revenue with regard to tin- Servant Licence which will in-
juriously affect nurserymen generally.

I am therefore to explain, in the first place, that your con-
stituents appear to have entirely misunderstood the inten-
tion and the effect of the proceedings taken against Mr.
Treeby. It is not the practice of the Inland Revenue, and
there is no idea of making it the practice, to require a licence
to be taken out for a jobbing gardener employed at several
places, and working one or two days a week at each; but
the case brought before the magistrates at Manchester was
not one of this nature. The Chancellor of the Exchequer is
informed that Mr. Treeby had contracted to attend to the
gardens, greenhouses, &c, of a Mr. EsteourL, which are
fairly extensive, and that one man was employed for prac-
tically the whole of his working time every day on the work.
It would be impossible to mike a distinction between a man
su employed and the ordinary private gardener, who

is engag'd on precisely identical duties for the sai >\

perhaps a smaller number of hours a week, and to say
that the latter is a taxable male servant because he is
employed directly by his master, but that a licence is nol
re piired for the former simply because he is engaged through
a nurseryman. The case was clearly, in the Chancellor of the
Exchequers opinion, one where a licence was required, and
he does not think that the action taken by the Board of
Inland Revenue against Mr. Treeby was in any way contrary
to tin* spirit of the law. As to the letter of the law, lie
cannot of course spsak with authority. He himself se?s no
reason to question the correctness of Mr. Yates' interpretation
of the Statute, but if the nurserymen are dissatisfied with the
decision, they will of course be able to test it by proceeding
with the appeal of which notice has been given.

One further point requires a few words of explanation.
The original intention of the Board of Inland Revenue was to
proceed against Mr. Estcourt before it appeared that the
gardener was not directly employed by him, and that Mr.
Treeby was concerned in the matter ; but Mr. Estcourt
explained that his reason for not taking out a licence was
that he was not the employer, as he hired the man. This was,
technically, a sound defence, as it is enacted by 32 & 33
Vict., chap. 14, section 19, sub -section (4), that 'every
person who shall furnish any male servant on hire shall
lor the purposes of this Act be deemed to be the em-
ployer of such servant.' The proceedings against Mr.
Estcourt were accordingly dropped, and Mr. Treeby was
asked to take out a licence. This he refused to do, and
the Inland Revenue had accordingly no alternative but to
prosecute him, if they were not to lose the duty on a man
who was in all essentials Mr. Estcourt's private gardener.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer would therefore suggest that
you should explain to your constituents that, in a case similar
to that recently tried, the Inland Revenue can under the law
proceed only against the nurseryman, and not against the
hirer of the gardener. It is for the nurseryman to make such
arrangements as will prevent the cost of the tax ultimately
falling upon him. In this connection, the Chancellor of the
Exchequer asks me to mention quite a common case which
seems to him exactly parallel. If a person hires a carriage
and ccachinan for a period exceeding four weeks, the man
from whom he hires them has to obtain licences, and it is
lelt to the latter to recoup himself either by including the
licence duty as a specific charge in the bill, or by making his
terms sufficiently high to cover the payment.

"Yours faithfully, "L. N. GUILLEMARD.

"Sir John W. Maclure, Bart, M.P."

Me Alfred Taylor, Nurseryman and Florist,

62, Harrogate Road, Ciiapeltown", Newton,

Leeds.

The first meeting of creditors concerned under

this failure was held at the offices of the official

receiver, Leeds, on Friday last. The summary of

accounts tiled by the debtor showed liabilities

amounting to £23!) lis. 7d.t and assets estimated

to produce £92 19s. Gd. Eventually, the estate

was left in the hands of the official receiver for

summary administration.

Tacsomas, and Fuchsias. Annual Climbers— Sweet Peas
Canary Creeper, Mina lobata, Convolvulus, &c.

The exhibits included some flowering branches of Bridgesia
spicata from Mr. Ward, of Crescent Road, ami blooms of Rho-
dodendron Veitchi lsevigatum cut from a plant forty years
old, and grown in a 14-inch pot in a cold greenhouse; also
spikes of East Lothian Stocks, from plants taken from the
open ground last autumn, planted in pots and flowered in cold
pits during the winter, thus securing two distinct periods of
blooming. These wen.1 staged by the lecturer, who also showed
Apples Stunner Pippin and Wellington, which had been kept
in boxes placet in pits 4 feet deep in the ground during the
winter. The fruits were firm and sound.

SOCI ETI ES.

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT GAR-
DENERS' MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

April 5.— A bi-monthly meeting of the above Society was
held on the above date. Professor Groves, F.L.S., F.R.M.S.,
delivered a lecture on the " Structure of Flowers.'

He traced the formation and growth of a flower from its
embryo stage, stating that the coloured and honey-producing
parts were necessary to encourage insects to visit them for
the purpose of fertilisation. The colour of the corolla was
die cither to coloured granules or to fluid in the cells. The
structure of the anther, with its enclosed pollen grains, and
their manner of growth to fertilise the ovules, was clearly
explained by means of diagrams.

Mr. W. Pope exhibited several pots of Amaryllis in full
flower; and Mr. W. Fullbrook a largo Deutzia, entirely
covered with bloom. //. Coleby, Hon. Ser..

BOURNEMOUTH AND DISTRICT
CHRYSANTHEMUM AND HORTI-
CULTURAL.

Ap.itl 6, 7.— This Society held an exhibition of Narcissus
and other spring flowers in the Shaftesbury Hall, Bourne-
mouth, on the above date, and it is to be congratulated on
the excellence of the exhibits then brought together. Willi
tin exception of Messrs. U\ru & Sons, who staged a fine
collection of Narcissus (not for competition), the exhibits
w ■re entirely local.

Exhibitors in the cut-bloom classes for Narcissus showed
excellently, and all of the classes were filled, so that the
competition in most of them was keen. Some very fine
bouquets and epergnes of Narcissus were shown.

The plant classes were for Narcissus, Hyacinths, Tulips,
Lily of the Valley, Azaleas, Spirals, Cinerarias, Primulas,
CycUmen, Deutzias, &c., and some capital examples of good
cultivation were noticed.

Groups of miscellaneous plants formed a special feature,
and those of the nurserymen's were admirable.

The Rev. G. H. Enqleheart, Appleshaw, Andover, staged
some of his unnamed seedling Narcissus, including an
improved form of Sir Watkin, and one that is a cross betwej ti
N. Horsfleldi and Polyanthus Narcissus Grand Monaroue.

A fine two-coloured Narcissus, shown by Messrs. Uarr &
Sons, was named Lady Willis, in honour of the lady who
opened the exhibition.

The non-competith e groups and stands of Narcissus,
floral designs, and plants, helped to make up a successful
exhibition. Although Bournemouth is filled with visitors,
neither they nor the general public visited the show as it-
deserved to be visited.

WAKEFIELD FAXTO \\

April 8. — A good attendance of members of this Society
was present, on the above date, at the Strafford Arms Hotel,
Mr. Swire presiding, to hear an interesting paper entitled
11 Orchids for Beginners,'* by Mr. John T. Barker, gardener
and Or/eh id -grower to— Berkinsliaw, Esq., Hessle Hall.

READING GARDENERS' MUTUAL
ASSOCIATION.

April lo,— A lecture on "Climbing Plants " was given by
Mr. J. Crooke, gr. at Forde Abbey, Chard, before the members
o:i the above date, the President, Mr. C. B. Stevens, in the
chair.

In introducing the subject, Mr. Crooke said that the subject
he had selected was an old one, a very wide one, and it also
included a wide range of plants. The gardener, he said,
should cultivate taste as well as cultivate plants, ami try to
get away from old methods which did not always lend them-
selves to present-day needs ; he also said that more use should
be made of native climbers, for many of these would make
the dull places of the garden beautiful. The following were
briefly touched upon : — Out-door Climbers — the common
Woodbine, Ampelopsis hederacea, Ampelopsis Veitchi, the
most popular climber of the present day ; Clematis montana,
C. Flammnla, Wistaria, Banksian Roses, Dunbar Roses, Goto-
neasters, Jasminum revolutum, Loniceras, and Tropa?olnm
speciosum. Tender Climbers — Ficus repens, one of the best ;
Bougainvillca glabra, Solanum jasminoides, Clematis indivisa,

ROYAL CALEDONIAN HORTICUL-
TURAL.

Tin: blustering month of March this year robbed this exhi-
bition of much of the brightness the Daffodils usually create.
Few of the choicer varieties came out in the best condition ;
they need a more genial time than that vouchsafed this spring.
Even so, the largest growers could manage to secure forty
distinct varieties wherewith to win the 7-guinea Cup offered
by Messrs. Barr & Sons.

The prize Cup was here, as also Messrs. Barr's representative,
with a capital display of Daffodils and Narcissus, including
(heir newest seedling, the Duke of Bedford; but the other
notable growers were conspicuous by their absence, or were
satisfied to show Narcissus, Daffodils, Tulips, Hyacinths, Ac,
in flower-pots as plants, Even were April to set in with genial
mood, a fortnight must elapse before anything like a full
muster could be made from plants grown in the open, north of
ths Tweed. Turning from the muster of cut blooms
nf Narcissus and Daffodils in vases, we found much to comfort
us in the well furnished round and other tables of private
groin ers and nurserymen, crowded with choice Orchids,
sets of forced plants in bloom, in sixes ; of stove and
greenhouse plants, four ditto ; of greeuli'Hise and hardy
Rhododendrons, Indian an 1 hardy Azaleas; foliage plants,
tilde plants, Palms, Cyclamens, Japanese Maples, Hippcas-
trums, Deutzias, Gueldres Rose, Lilacs, Spiraeas, Lily of the
Ya ley, perfect in foliage and flower. Primulas such as
Sieboldi, obconica, and sinensis ; Polyanthus, common
Primroses, Auriculas, and Alpine plants made a fine display.
There were also several exhibitors of twenty-four cut
blooms of Roses, and no fewer than six exhibitors of twelve
M n e -ii.-il N el, i hive of which were excel lent ; three exhibitors
of a dozen blooms of Gloirc de Dijon, and several of dozens of
Tea an i other Roses.

Bon, | net,, hand, shower, and button-hole, and sprays,
were rery choice.

The dcssei 1 consisted of one Pine-apple, two exhibits of each
six puis of Strawberries, three dishes consisting of thirty ripe
fruits each, Ihe best of which were Royal Sovereign; three
exhibits of Black Giapcs, two bunches each; and a bright
muster of dessert and culinary Apples, among the finest dishes
Icing Normanton Wonder, Bedfordshire foundling, Winter
Pear main, Winter Juncating, I i or mead's Kernel, Pomona,
Galloway Pippin, Bramley's See tling, Newton Wonder, Hoary
Morning, Loddington, Green Loddington, striped Beaufin,
Gloria Mundi, Desserl varieties of very high colour, Ribston
Pippin, Cornish Aromatic, Blenheim QVange Pippin, Iteinette
du Canada, ami Keddleston Pippin.

Notwithstanding the late spring, vegetables were well
shown, and the classes for amateurs and nurserymen were
well tilled.

Messrs. Downie, Laird, Dickson, Cunninghams;, Gordon,
Methuen, Wood, and others sustained their old reputation
for Rhododendrons, Azaleas, hardy evergreens, shrubs, Coni-
fers, Ferns, Palms, &c. While Mr. McIntyre, the gr. at The
Glen, was most successful, as usual, in all the classes in
which he competed, his muster of four fragrant Rhododen-
drons wi re examples of perfect culture. These plants were
I yard or more in height and diameter, and comprised the
following varieties :— Lady Alice Fitzwilliam, Princess Alice,
fragrantissimum, and Duchess of Edinburgh.

Among the principal prize-winners were Mr. McIntyre, The
Glen, Innerleithen; F. Nicoll, Craigowan, Perth; Geo.
Wood, ' liwald House, Edinburgh ; Geo. Chaplin, St. Leonards,
Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh; David Murray, Culzean Castle
Gardens; Geo. Mackinlay, The Gardens, Wrest Park, Bed-
fordshire; D. Kidd, Carbeny Tower Gardens, Musselburgh
John Cairns, The Hirsell, Cold -dream ; R. B. Laird <fc Sons
Jno. Downie, nurseryman, Edinburgh, and others, in the
smaller classes for cut flowers, and for vegetables.

CHESTER PAXTON.

MaRCB 8, —The closing meeting for the present session was
held on the above date, when Mr. Robert Wakefield (Newton
Hall Gardens), read a paper on " Hardy Herbaceous Flowers."

Mr Wakefield has of late years been recognised as one of
Ihe most successful cultivators of herbaceous Flowers in that
district, and his paper gave evidence of a very intimate
knowledge of the best varieties of these hardy flowering
plants.

ANTWERP.

Tun: Royal Horticultural Society of Antwerp is the first of
the numerous societies of that town to commemorate the ter-
centenary ofthe birth of the great painter, Vaudyck. The
show was held in the line Concert-hall of the Zoological So-
ciety,and opened on Sunday, April {>, to the public. It was feared

April 15, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

239

that, owing to the height of the building, the fine specimen-
plants would appear dwarfed, yet owing to the arrangement
of the lateral galleries, this effect was not produced, and the
general view was excellent.

The judging was completed on Saturday by a very nume-
rous jury, which included M. F. Benary, from Erfurt ;
M. !'-■ Graaf, Leyden ; M. Wilke, Rotterdam; M. Dudok
de Witt, Amsterdam; M. Truffaut, and M. Duval, of Ver-
sailles ; M. Arthur de Smet, M. Raphael de Smet, De Sinet-
Duvivier, M. Ohas. Pynaart, M. Ed. Pymert, M. Fiercns, M.
de Cock, andM. Leon le Brayn. Messrs. Gordon, W. Cutbush,
A. W. Ker, and F. Ker, came from this side of the Channel.
M. de Bruyn, the Minister of Agriculture, was the President
of Honour; M. Marc Micheli, of Geneva, the General
President.

The members of the jury were received in the most cordial
and hospitable manner, as is always the case in Belgium,
being entertained at luncheon after the judging; received by
the Burgomaster in the evening, and entertained at lunch by
Madame E. Osterrieth in her palatial town house, the
pictures and curtos being much appreciated, as well as the
kindness of the hostess and her lady friends in making every-
one welcome.

The banquet to the jury was presided over by the President
of the Society, Baron Osy de Zegwaart, and supported by M.
Lc Bruyn, the Minister of Agriculture, tin- Burgomaster of
Antwerp, and many members of the Corporation, and the
Secretaries of the show, Messrs. Verlinden and Anatole de
Cock.

The special feature of the showwas its picturesque arrange-
incut, the floor of the large hall being laid out in the mosl
natural manner with various collections by M. Skrvaas dk
Bectckhr, to whom the jury awarded a Gold Medal for his
tasteful efforts.

Turning to the plants themselves, the platform of the hall was
occupied with a collect ion of tine Balms, from M. De Cook, of
Ghent, and included a line piece of Ccroxylou nlveum,Ken1 a .
Phoenix, and Cocos, «fcc. This group was Hanked by collec-
tions of hard-wooded plants, including collections of New
Holland plants, tic taste for which beautiful plants is
reviving. In the collection of M. Budinghaus, which obtain d
the Queen's prize, were line specimens of CllanthUS put icei $
magnifieus, Chorozcma splendens, Cytisus Hoi ibunda, Min us i
annata paradoxa, Tremandra ericoides, and Pulteneea strict i

In M. E. de Cock s collection was Genista prsecnx covered
with white Mowers;.

M. Collumbien's group conta'ned well-grown plants of
l liorozema, Leptosperma bnlbatum, &c«

A nice commercial lot of Pandanus Veitchi from Mr. Ki vi..
Ghent, received a Silver Medal,

W. VUYLSTEKE showed nice lots of Azalea rus1ie:mi plena,

pyramid and standard Azalea indica, and Amaryllis, for
which collection he was awarded a Gold Medal.
Madame Osterrieth gained ls1 prizes f"r a grand Iotor

Azalea mollis OT sinensis, among Which Ant In my Koster W.H

conspicuous ; for fifteen Azalea indica in half spec n

for twenty-five smaller plants, all of which were grown to
perfection ; for twelve Cliveias and for one specimen; for
twenty-five Azalea mollis and twenty-five Primula obconica,

this success was awarded a special diploma for its inerit.

Messrs. K. B. Ker & Sons, of Liverpool, gained the Gold

Medals for Collections Of forty Amaryllis and of tweilty-flVC,

the tine substance in the Mowers showing its superiority In
lasting quality over the old strains. Among the lines! forms
were Scarlet King, fine self; Virgin Queen, a magnificent form,
white ground with carmine veins ; Imperial, darkest crimson ;
Monarch, a grand dark red ; White Lady, almost white ;
Apollo, red, With white stripes ; Midas, white, w ith red veins,
and many others, which made a fine effect, and which, thou ;h
carried from Liverpool in flower, were looking well at the
close of the show. The same firm was awarded a Medal for
a sample of their strain of Cliveias.

M. Joseph Vebvaene gained the 1st prize for new Azalea
indica, the best of the twelve being Perle de Belgique, pure
white, very double, and of tine substance; Irene de Meule-
meester, double pink, with white edge; Spit Five, a fine
double crimson. The above are all acquisitions to our
already large collection of Azaleas.

Avery line collection of Anthurium Andreanum varieties
was shown by the Societe Anonym e Horticole Gantoise
of Ghent, and included pure white salmon, pink, scarlet, and
crimson ; this lot gained the 1st award, with the congratula-
tions of the judges.

Cyclamen papilio were shown by M. Lanqhe Vekyaene,
one with a distinct yellow fringe, others were not so nice,
having a faded appearance.

M. Arthur l>e Smet gained several awards for bis line
strains of Anthurium Scherzerianum M. Dalltere, a grand
salmon-coloured form; Excelsior, a vivid scarlet ; A. Scher-
zerianum album, and A. S. Souvenir d'Antoine Cbautiu, dark
crimson, being among the best.

Roses in pots were well shown by M. Truvman Smets, and
an honorary exhibit of white Lilies, Roses, ami Hydrangeas
was awarded a Gold Medal.

The collection of Orchids arranged for effect was not so fine
as might have been expected. M. Pauwels was awarded a
Gold Medal, but the exhibit lacked colour.

M. Hve de Crom, of Ghent, gained 1st, for twenty-five
Odontoglossums, which included Elegans, Hadweni, Vinckea-
num, Ruekeri gracillima, gloriostun, and excellens.

For the most varied collection of Cypripediums, M. Moens,
of Lede, was 1st, ami his twenty-five included nitens, Moensii
Ilarrisianuin violaceum, Stella, and Van Inischootianum.

M. Peeters, of Brussels, showed a line group of miscel-
laneus Orchids, among which were found Chysis bractescens,

Cattleya Trianaei delicate, Odonloglossum pardinum, Zygo-
petalum x Perrenoudi superbum, Eulophiella Elisabeths,
Oncidium tigrinum, Angrtecum sesquipedale, &c.

M. Vuylsteke carried off the President's prize for new
Odontoglossums. viz. : 1, O. ■ s]„.etabile, a cross between
O. Harryanum and O. crispum, with violet-brown spots on a
creamy-white ground, lip white at the tip, with a violet-
brown base; 2, O. x vivicans (O. Harryanum x crispum)
with brownish-red markings on a creamy-white ground ; 3,
O. x Loochristyense, a cross between 0. grande and O.
crispum, with large brown spots on a pale yellowr ground.

The seedlings of M. ^Iaron were also worthy of comment —
Cattleya La Fontaine (<'. Mendeli x C. guttata), Louis
Chaton (C. Triamci and Lawrenceana), Ladia Latona in-
verta (L. purpurata and L. cinnabarina). The collections of
M. Peeters were particularly well displayed. In M. Jules
Hvk's lot we noted Odontoglossum excellens superbum,
O. elegans, and O mulus Holdfordianum.

Next to the Orchids was a small class for one seedling
flowering-plant, which Messrs. Ker carried oil' with Amaryllis
Magnificent, of large size and line shape, colour reddish-
crimson, with the tips of the petals almost white. The
second was an Azalea of the linearifolia section. A most
curious Cliveia, with green stripes in the centre of each petal
was not placed.

Tin: Late II. T. SOPPITT.

One of the most distini i i lants of the show was Anthurium
Ilookeri, with leaves t feel Ion , exhibited by the ComteDa
Ki io ■no\ i .

In the group of Palms shown bj M. K. de Coi K, and which
obtained the King's prize, were superb specimens ol Ceroxj Ion
aii'licoia, and Caryota Cunninghami.

M. de Koyk showed a fine plan 1 of Brahea Roezli, as well
as a superb group of Araucariaa Madame Osterrietd took
sei i iii prizes for Azal- a-.

A pretty lot of Citrus sinensis in fruit, and ol' Boronia
heterophylla were shown by M. i Smkt Duvivibr.

Altogether the show was very successful, and the arrange-
ment excellent.

ROYAL BOTANIC.

ArniL 1-2.— On Wednesday last, in the gardens of this
Society, at Regent's Park, was held the annual Spring Show.

The display was probably as large as that in many pn i i ding
years, but Hie greater part of the interest it represented must
be accredited to miscellaneous exhibits from members of the
horticultural trade. Despite the efforts that have been made
to revive these exhibitions from the competitive point of
view, they continue to decline. In none of the competitive
classes on the occasion under notice was there any com petit ion,
and throughout the exhibition there were but three exhibitors
in those classes. The St. Georoe's Nursery Co., Han well,
wdio had some first rate cyclamens; Mr. Keif, gr. to Mis.
Aui*i..Ts, South Villa, Regent s Park, who obtained a number of
priy.es; and Messrs. Younu & Co., Stevenage Nurseries,
Herts.

FROM THE NURSERYMEN.

Messrs. John Lvj.vg & Sons, Forest Hill Nurseries,
London, in a very attractive group of miscellaneous plants,,
included some pretty Boronias, several new varieties of
Azalea indica, a variegated variety of Rhapis Habelliformis,
various Cordjlincs, Codiceums, and Cliveias.

Excellent Mignonette in pots was shown by Messrs. Morle
& Co., Finchley Road Nurseries, N.

There was one group of Orchids, and in this Messrs. B. S.
Wiiliams & Co., Upper Holloway, London, N., displayed
line plants of numerous varieties of Vanda tricolor. V. t.
superba, and another named Gottschalkei variety were very
beautiful ; the distinct form insignia was also remarked,
Pbaius x Norman, and various Cypripediums were included.

Mr. Thos. S. Ware, in a moderate display of Narcissi and
spring-flowering plants, included several little gems of some
rarity, and a tiny plant in flower of Calypso borealis, an inter-
esting little Orchid, figured in Gardeners' Chronicle, April s
1893, p. 421.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Coveut Garden, made a
tine display of Narcissus, although their collection at Dittori
is scarcely in full flower. We remarked several blooms of the
beautiful new bicolor trumpet Daffodil Duke of Bedford, and
many popular sorts.

A collection of Narcissus blooms exhibited from the
Emerald Isle by Messrs. Hogg & Robertson, 22, Mary Street,
Dublin, was noteworthy. The colour, size, and substance
of the blossoms were most satisfactory. The Tulips, too, were
fine. It should be remembered that this produce is from
Irish-grown bulbs.

^ Cinerarias were made a specialty by Messrs. Jas. Carter &
Co., High Holborn, London, whose large collection of single-
flowering varieties represented a strain with large, brilliantly-
coloured blooms. The double varieties, that appear to obtain
less general favour, were also well shown.

Messrs. Wm. Rati. & Son, Waltham Cross, Herts, showed
Camellias in pots. Roses, Cannas, and a most gay exhibit of
Tulips, als.) in pots. The Tulips were of single and double-
flowered varieties. Two new ones were shown— Muriilo,

fc-'low, semi-d ile;and Rosa Mundi, a single flower, deep

golden-yellow, marked red, of very good form.

Messrs. .]. ii,,.! ,v Bon, Lower Edmonton, made a fine
exhibil of Perns, the tinted Adiantums, and varieties of Ne-
phrodlum being most attractive.

cut Rosec were shown only by Mr. W. Rumsey, Joyn i

Waltham Cross, bul there were something like
seventeen dozen blooms, and the colours wen- bright.

There was capital produce shown ofTomatosand encum-
bers by Mr. 8. Mortimer, Swiss Nursery, Rowledge, Farn-
ham. The Tomatos represented a variety Winter Bean'ty, a
s edling from Conqueror. TheCucumbei were the varietj
Sensation.

©bftuaru.

H. T. SOPPITT. -On April 1, 1S09, died
at his residence, 12, (ilea View, Halifax, Henry
Thomas Soppitt, who succumbed, after an illness
of a fortnight, to an attack of pneumonia. Born
in Bradford, June 21, 1S58, he was only in his Msl
year when he was taken from us, leaving the world
poorer by the loss of an original worker in that
department of natural science in which he had
made for himself a name. The subject of the
pro 'lit notice possessed that untiring energy and
never Magging perseverance which are so essential
to those who would unravel Nature's secrets. A
Yorksliireman by birth, lie possessed the genial
bonhomie and warmheartedness of his race
tempered by a natural diffidence of manner that
made it impossible for him to hurt the feelings of
anyone. Brought up in his father's business, he
resided in Bradford until 1894, when he removed
to Halifax. Compelled to earn his living by an
uncongenial and poorly-remunerative occupation,
he managed to acquire au all-round knowledge of
natural history ; entomology, geology, zoology, and
botany were alike to him the objects of study, and
the sources of enjoyment. Devoid of personal
jealousy, and ever free to impart the information
he possessed to others, it is no wonder he made
many friends.

In 18S6 he was President of the Bradford Natu-
ralists' Society, and for many years he was on the
executive of the Yorkshire Naturalists' Union. A
pleasant writer, he contributed many articles on
natural history to the local press, some of which,
such as his " Rural Walks round Bradford," "The
Flora of the Bradford District," &e., are worthy of
a more abiding place iu the literature of Yorkshire.
His paper iu conjunction with Mr. J. A. Carter,
on "The Land and Freshwater Mollusca of Upper
Airedale," and his article on "Fungi," in Lee's
Flora of West Yorkshire, are of a more permauent
nature. Fond as ho was of all brandies of natural
history, it was as a botanist that he did his most
brilliant work. Possessing a sound knowledge of
the flowering plants of Yorkshire, he took a
special interest iu fungi. Some ten or twelve years
ago he began the biological study of the Uredinea;,
and it is from his experimental researches that we

240

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 15, 1899,

know the life-history of the several species which
had previously either been shrouded in mystery or
wrongly interpreted. For instance, prior to his
work, the Pucoinia and /Ecidium on Adoxa Mos-
chatellina were regarded as being of the same
species, but he demonstrated that the Puccinia
is a Mucipuccinia, and has no relation to Puccinia
albescens, which is an Auteupuccinia with MA-
dium, Uredo, and teleutospores on the same host-
plant. Then he cleared up the life-history of
.-Ecidium leucospermum, showing it to be an Endo-
ph'ylium. He found its spores germinated as
those of Endophyllum do, and that while they
were without effect upon adult plants, yet
seedling Anemones became affected with the
.Ecidium after infection, and that the fungus had
nothing whatever to do with the Puccinia fusca
which occurs on the same host-plant. It fell to his
lot to be the first person to demonstrate a heterce-
cious Puccinia which has its .Eeidiospores on a
Dicotyledon ; this he did in working out the life-
history of P. bistort, by proving that its JEcidio-
spores occur on Couopodium denudatum. He
attacked that complicated problem, the life-history
of the Puccinia; ou Phalaris aruudinacea, proving
that the .Ecidium ou Lily of the Valley belonged
to one of them, which he named P. digraphidis,
thereby opening a discussion amongst coutinental
botanists as to the relative value of these specific
forms, which has hardly yet been concluded. His
communications to the Gardeners' Chronicle were
mostly upou plant diseases, the last being an
account of his repetition and confirmation of Kle-
bahn's cultures of P. Pringsheimiana on the garden
Gooseberry. Lactarius involutus, Sopp., is figured
in Cooke's Illustrations, t. 1194. Dasycypha Sop-
pittia, Mass., is named after him, as also is the
genus Soppittella, one of the Thelephorea;. His last
paper in conjunction with Mr. Crossland appeared
in the January number of the Naturalist, and con-
tained descriptions of several new species of Disco-
mycetes. He was present at the last meeting of
the British Mycological Society, of which he was one
of the original members, last October, iu Dublin. He
was iu excellent health, enjoyed the meetings and
excursions, and the meeting of old friends. From
what fell from him there, it was evident that
a somewhat lengthy visit to Switzerland in
1897, with his friend Mr. H. A. Pawson, where
he found an opportunity of studying the Swiss
flora, was one of the red-letter periods of
his life. He was buried at Eccleshill on
April 4, when most of the leading naturalists of
Yorkshire were present. He left a widow and four
children to mourn his loss. C. B. F.

B. STEIN. — It is only lately that we have heard
of the death, on Feb. 27, of Mr. Berthold Stein,
Inspector of the Breslau Botanic Garden, in his
fifty-third year. Mr. Stein was an occasional cor-
respondent of this journal, and was much interested
iu the Primula Conference, held some years ago
under the auspices of the Royal Horticultural
Society.

M. DELCHEVALERIE.— The death is also an-
nounced of auotherof ourcorrespoudents, M. Delche-
Valerie. He was, we believe, of Belgian extraction.
He took a most prominent part iu the develop-
ment of horticulture in Egypt, and died, according
to the Heme Horticole, at the age of fifty-eight at
Chaumes (Seine-et-Loire), France.

The Late Dowager Countess de Ker-

CHOVE. — Iu common with many English friends,
we offer our respectful sympathy to Count de
Kerchove de Deuterghem, the President of the
Hoyal Agricultural and Botanical Society at Ghent,
on the death, at an advanced age, of his mother,
the Dowager Countess. Visitors to the Client
Quinquennial will remember the gracious hospi-
tality in former years of the deceased lady, and
mauy are familiar with the magnificent Azaleas
exhibited by her, and with the famous winter-
garden which forms so great a feature in the
horticultural attractions of the old Flemish city.

MY j|0 BE.

The subjoined extract from Mr. Cameron's report
On the Government gardens and parks in Mysore
for 1897-98 is of great interest :—

Hybrid Coffee. — The possession of hybrid plants
on several estates in Southern India now appears
to be an undisputed fact. These new forms are
reported to combine, more or less, the charac-
teristics of Coffea liberica and Coffea arabica, and
are only found in localities where the two species
have been cultivated and propagated together.
They have not been introduced by the planters as
new varieties, and were unknown prior to the
introduction of the West African species Coffea
liberica. It is therefore reasonably inferred that
these intermediate plants are true hybrids. The
most remarkable thing about them is their immu-
nity from Coffee-leaf disease, a condition which
can only be attributed to enhanced vitality in the
constitution of the hybrid. This is a discovery of
much importance to the planter, and will encourage
him to pursue operation of crossing on methodical
lines, with a view to raising improved strains of
seed, as has already been done in most of the chief
products of agriculture and horticulture in Europe.
What should be aimed at now is the systematic
crossing and recrossing of different species and
well marked varieties until a really good hybrid or
cross is produced. With this object a small coffee-
plot has been planted in the Lai Bagh. It consists
of 135 bushes in two species and one variety.
Most of the plants were of a good size when put
down, and it is almost certain that a few of the
Liberian and Maragogipe specimens will flower
early next year, when crossing operations will be
commenced.

A CORRECTION. — We are requested to publish
the following letter : — " Will you allow me to cor-
rect an error, into which I have unwittingly fallen,
iu the present issue of the Rosarians Year-book,
and wherein I stated that Messrs. H.yrknf.ss had
succeeded to the business of Mr. May iu Bedale. I
am assured that this is not the case ; the present
firm of J. & A. May, of Hope Nurseries, continues
the business, which was purchased by them from
the late Mr. Henry May's executors about five
years ago, and has not only been carried on by the
May family for three generations, but is now in a
flourishing condition. The Editor of the Rosarians'
Year-book."

Answers to Correspondents.

Ahiantum Fronds to Preserve as Decorative
Objects: Aden. The fronds must be carefully
laid out on herbarium or blotting-paper, under
pressure, and dried, changing the paper twice or
thrice a week. After this partof the process is com-
plete the fronds will doubtless have ltst some of
their green colour, and it will be advisable to afford
them the desired tint with aniline varnish, using
this iu a very attenuated form, so as not to give
the fronds an unnatural shiny appearance, or
to cause the pinna: to stick together. Having
drawn them through a vessel containing the
coloured varnish, let them be hung up singly on
hooks in a cool dry-air place. When dry, repack
carefully between sheets of paper placed between
the covers of a book, or a pair of boards, and set
aside for future use.

Begonia socotrana : /. Wilkinson. This species
being not truly tuberous, must be rested by
partially withholding water, and keeping some-
what cool, but not dried off like Begonias which
possess tubers. A two months' rest is sufficient
for this species, or the hybrids from it. Neither
should the stems be cut close to the soil, but be
pruned rather severely, say to one-half or two-
thirds of their length. Repotting may be per-
formed at the eud of the resting term, and when
a renewal of growth seems called for. The best
resting-place is the coolest part of the stove or
an intermediate-house. Tubers, if they form
around the base, may be made use of for increase.
The plant may be struck from cuttings of the
young wood taken when this has acquired a certain
degree of firmness. They need a bottom-heat of
75° to 80°, and to be kept close, care being takeu
to prevent damping off.

Books: W. R. R. The Culture oj the Chrysan-
themum (Wells), is published by W. Wells,
Earlswood, Redhill, Surrey. Price Is. 6d.

CUCUMBER Lot'KIE's PERFECTION : C. G., A". ■'</'.
The variety was raised by Mr. Lockie, gr. at
Oakley Court, Windsor, and shown by him at
the Royal Horticultural Society's meeting on
June 12, 1888, receiving a First-class Certificate.
It is a cross between Purley Park Hero and
Verdant Green.

Eureka Waterproof Paper : E. J. Ash, Bula-
irayo, Rhodesia. The paper enquired for is sold
by Mr. C. A. Christiansen, Norwood Green,
London.

Isle op Wight: Ouernseyman. (1) We do not
know what chance you would have of getting
employment there ; the area is not large. (2)
The Gardener*' Chronicle is circulated there, as
well as in Bulawayo, from which place we have
received an article from an occasional contributor.

Jug LANS recia var. rubra : H. Dixon, Sydney.
The plant being of Austrian origin, may be pro-
cured at the nurseries (baumschulen) of Mr. C.
Rosenthal & Sonne, Vienna ; or of Mr. Rudolf
Abel, Hietzing, by Vienna.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in

this issue are requested to be so good as to consult

the following number. — F. M. 1, Pachystachys

asperula (Justicia carnea) ; 2, a Cestrum, send

when in flower. — /•'., Wakeford. 1, Cyrtomiuni

falcatum; 2, Diplazium diversif olium t 3, Davallia

dissectavar. Mariesii ; 4, Platycerium aleicorne ;

5. Pteris longifolia. — G. N. A double variety of

Narcissus incomparabilis, commonly called butter

and egg. — W.E. What you send from Launcestou,

Tasmania, is a species of Trefoil closely allied, if

not the same as our Strawberry Trefoil, Trifolium

fragiferum. — W. 67., Brighton. An exceptionally

pretty form of Odontoglossum x Andersonianum.

— Oak. 1, Eriobotrya japonica (Japanese

Medlar) ; 2, Ilex aquifolium Hendersoni ; 3,

Hex dipyrena ; 4, next week ; 5. Spiraea Tliuu-

bergi ; 6, Arbutus Menziesii (procera). —

II". 11. II. Your Dendrobium is a very fine 1).

nobile, but not D. n. nobilius, which is much

darker in colour. —C. S., Ipswich. The Fern is

Blechnum corcovadense ; 2, Daphne odora

(indica). — R. W. R. The Dendrobium nobile is

(piite equal to D. u. nobilius, if not from Hie

original stock. — II'. N. 1, Dendrobium Ward-

ianum ; 2, Dendrobium crassinode Barberiamun ;

3, Dendrobium crassinode ; 4, Dendrobium

aureuin (heterocarpum). — .S'. A"., Wellington.

The Orchid is Cymbidium pendulum. The

scarlet flower Stenomesson coceiueuni. — S. A.

Yes, British ; Gagea lutea. We are delighted

to see au old friend.— IK. A. The plant is a

Hibiscus, but we are unable to identify the

species. It may possibly be an undescribed one.

If it should fruit will you kindly send us a

specimen.

Potatos with SCAB: '.'. //. Information on this
disease will be found in a report to the Royal
Horticultural Society Scientific Committee,
November S, 189S (see Gardeners' Chronicle,
November 19, 189S, p. 372). The form of scab
is somewhat different, but the treatment required
is the same. As your Potatos are already in
pots, try the effects of top-dressing with flowers-
of -sulphur or kainit. Remove all scabbed tubers,
they will never produce healthy plants.

Vine Disease: D. B. Probably the American
mildew ; spray with sulphide of potassium, as
recommended to another correspondent.

Vines: D. B. The materials were too scanty for
investigation, and you should send shoots and
leaves of various sizes. -One in Ignorance. Your
Vines are badly attacked with a fungus or mould.
Cut off the affected shoots and burn them, and
syringe with a solution of potassium sulphide and
water, \ oz. to a gallon of water.

CoMMOKICATIOKS RECEIVED. - II. de \V.. Ghent.— F. K.,

Liverpool.— Editor.— W. O.— C. W. I).— D. W.— Col. T.—
Dr. P.-W. Jollainl.— E. C.-W. q.—E. N.— D. T. F.— R. 11.
-G. W.— II. T. M.-F. W. B.— W. G. S.— H. Cannell * Sons.
— H. H. D'O.— Prof, WrigUtson.— Director, Royal Gardens,
Kew.— G. C— H. W.
Specimens and Photooraphs Received with Thanks.—
W. E. G.— W. G— J. B.— Fruit Grower's Year Book (Cable
Office, Ilatton House, Great Queen Street).

{For Markets and Weather, see p. x.)

April 22, 1899.]

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

241

THE

(Sartors' djjhromde

No. G43.—SATURDA Y, APRIL 22, 1899.

CxLA SNE VIN.

THERE are many botanical gardens in
Europe and in Great Britain we may fairly
boast of— Kew, and Edinburgh, and Glasgow,
of Cambridge, Oxford, and Birmingham; but
there is but one Glasnevin, and it is both from
the natural and cultural points of view one of
the most interesting and beautiful gardens in
the northern world. There is no fact more
apparent, or that strikes the historian or anti
quary with more force than that, "history
repeats itself," or, in other words, that old
traditions of light and leading continue for ages
to linger around or upon the self-same spot of
ground. In this wise we are told that —

"The literary fame of Glasnevin began at a very
early period. There was a celebrated school of
learning on the banks of the river Tolka, on the
site of the present Glasnevin Botanic Gardens. It
was founded by 8. Mobi, or Mobhi, who died in
the year 544.

The names of several abbots, his successors, are
known, such as Cealtrog, ob. 741, Elphin, ob. 753,
Maoltnil, ob. SN2. It was, as all schools of learn-
ing were at the time and for centuries later, a
religious community. Fifty scholars lived in huts
by the Tolka, on the west bank. The church was
then, as now, on the east bank of the river. This
school had the honour of educating S. Columba
after he had spent some time as pupil in the school
of Clonard on the River Boyne.

After some years of evangelistic work in Ireland,
S. Columba left bis native land, and founded his
great missionary college at Iona. From it, and
subsequently from its offshoot at Lindisfarne, went
forth, as is well known, that noble band of Celtic
missionaries who spread the Gospel through a great
part of England, aud over much of the continent
of Europe. Of one of those missionaries, the
late learned Dr. Lightfoot, Bishop of Durham,
after careful historical examination, declared 'Not
Augustine but Aidan is the true apostle of
England.'

On August 31, 1896, a number of English church-
men proceeded to Lindisfarne, au island off the coast
of Northumberland, on the 1343rd anniversary of
S. Aidan 's death, that they might see the spot
where his missionary work for England was orga-
nised. Now this Aidan, first Bishop of Durham,
was the fellow-countryman and pupil of S. Co-
lumba. It was S. Columba's zeal which inspired
his, and there can be little doubt that much of the
knowledge aud culture associated with his work
had their origin in the master's school at Glasnevin,
on the banks of the Tolka.

The literary fame which attached to Glasnevin in
its early days revived in the last century. Thomas
Darnell, the poet, Dean Swift, Addison aud Steele
lived there. There is reason to believe that Swift's
celebrated Drapier's Letters were written at
Jiclville House, Glasnevin."

The self same salubrity and native charm
that tempted the early Christians in Ireland to
settle beside the Tolka at Glasnevin, clings
around the place to-day, and renders it so
doubly attractive, and especially to those
interested in botany or in gardening.

Our illustration (see fig. 90) gives a charming

glimpse of the bog and water-garden, a never-
failing source of delight from the time of
Golden Marsh Buttercups, Primroses, Lilies,
and Japanese Iris, until Marliac's exquisite
rosy, sulphur, or white Water Lilies (Nym-
phseas) are in flower. I have seen Glasnevin at
nearly all times and seasons, but never without
instruction and delight, go when one may,
from the earliest Aconite or Snowdrop to the
latest of Christmas Roses or Chrysanthemums,
and all you will wish for is more time in which
to look and to admire. Outside or inside, it is
all tile same ; all tastes are consulted, and all
sorts of plants are well grown. The cool-house
devoted to Ferns is now very attractive, con-
taining, as it does, very line examples of
Cyathsea Smith!, C. dealbata-, and Alsophila
crinita, Ac. In an adjacent house is a spendid
collection of Sarracenias, containing not only all
the wild species, but many hybrids reared here
by Mr. F. W. Moore during recent years, and
which vie in form and coloration with the finest
of wild kinds. The beautiful S. Moorei x was
one of the first hybrids raised in this genus,
having been raised here by the late Dr. D.
Moore prior to 1874 {Gard. Olvron., 1874,
p. 702), and it still remains one of the best.

Another choice "pitcher plant" long grown
here, is a fine form of Nepenthes distillatoria,
scrambling like a Vine over the roof of the
Orchid-house, its urns dangling gracefully over-
head, and showing their crimson-red lids to
great advantage. Cephalotus follicularis also
grows well here in a cool-house, its clustered
pitchers larger and more highly coloured than
1 have ever seen them elsewhere. Here, also,
that rarest of all the Pitcher-plants, Heliamphora
nutans, from Guiana is developing its classi-
cally shaped urns ; and there are Droseras of
all kinds in profusion, and even Byblis and
Roridula are represented by one or two of their
quaintest forms.

I must not forget to say that one of the very
few plants of Nepenthes Rajah now alive is at
Glasnevin, and it was from this plant that the
noble pitcher was cut which Mr. Veitch showed
at the Drill Hall on the occasion of his lecture,
and which was afterwards very artistically
modelled for the collection at Kew. Here at
Glasnevin also is the finest living specimen I
know of Darlingtonia calif ornica, having pitchers
over 2 feet in height, with bloated tops and
crimson-forked wings, that remind one of a
cobra head when reared and excited, and about
to make its deadly stroke.

The new succulent-house with its contents
obtains a good deal of attention from visitors,
who criticise the "Hedgehog-plants " or "fossils
alive," to their heart's content. Some of the
finer and rarer kinds were imported direct from
Mexico and California, and are doing well in
their excellent new quarters.

There is also here one of the best collections
of Bromeliads, including many rare kinds ; and
these, varying so enormously as they do in size,
form, amd colouring, are well worthy of more
extended culture and study. Some of these
identical rarities were in the once famed Morren
collection at Liege, and others were carefully
selected from French and Belgian collections
by Mr. Moore. It is one of the peculiarities
of our insular prejudices that we do not culti-
vate Bromeliads more extensively, and espe-
cially the hardier kinds, which are so beautiful
in leafage, and would lend themselves to mom
and window culture almost as well as the Aspi-
distra, and better than do many Dracaenas and
Palms.

I think it is to Glasnevin we must go in order

to see Philesia buxifolia 5 feet high and 8 feet
across ! Such a specimen is, as I suppose", abso-
lutely unique, and is always good to see, either
with or without its drooping coral bells or
flowers. This plant is a shrubby or non-climb-
ing first cousin of the Lapageria, and its hybrid
is Philageria Veitchi X, raised at Chelsea, and
remarkable as being the first bigeneric hybrid
named in an intelligent and logical manner, as
showing its dual parentage.

There is here a specimen of Arauearia Rulei,
20 feet in height, very fine Browneas, and in
the Palm-house the great tropical Bamboo is
luxuriant, reaching a height of 70 feet (fig. '.»1).

Most visitors note the superb specimens of
Irish Vows, and the celebrated old Yew-tree
walk, associated with the name of Addison, and
beautifully figured in Dr. John Lowes' work.
The Tew Tree in Great Britain and Ireland.
The original Golden-Leaved Yew still exists
here at Glasnevin.

We often hear complaints as to the difficulty
of growing Daphne Blagayana successfully, but
there is a clump or tuft here in the utmost
health and beauty, at least 8 or 9 feet across,
and bearing hundreds of its sweet white ami
dense-tufted blossoms. Mr. Moore tells me
the only secret is good red loam and plenty of
stones over its roots and branches, but I never
see this charming shrub so luxuriant elsewhere.

The herbaceous borders are already flowery,
despite the recent gales, and the hardy Ferns
are uncurling their croziers on the rock-garden
devoted to them, and there is a golden light on
the Willow shoots, as seen against the grey-
blue sky.

Beauty of form and colour everywhere ; on
gold-fruited Ivy, on tree-trunk, lichened-rock,
and mossy-stem, but a glance at the dial says
tempui fugit, and we pass on to where the
Misleto hangs in great olive-green masses
from the Pyrus and other trees, and admire
once more the perennial beauty of the hardy
Ericas so well represented here. One plant o
E. mediterranea cannot be less than Bi feet
high, and is very lovely in colour. E. vagans,
ramulosa, or stricta, earnea in variety, and
hyhrida, all are here, and they are all beautiful
all the year round. These hardy Heaths are
so beautiful that the wonder is they are so
seldom planted near rocks and stones, on banks,
or even in shrub-beds, where autumn and
winter effects are desired.

To leave Glasnevin without a word about the
Orchids would never do, for they are here a
specialty, the genera Masdevallia and Cypripe-
dium being very fully represented, as also are
those exquisite little waifs and strays in this
order that the late W. Wilson Saunders and his
henchman, Chas. Green, loved and grew so
well. It seems a pity to me always when at
Glasnevin, that the " Refugium Botanicum,"
or portrait gallery for inconspicuous or botanical
rarities, was discontinued, but if you whisper
that to the genial director Moore, and he thinks
you are appreciative, he may untie his port-
folios and show you Miss Shackleton's exquisite
colour studies of these his favourite floral gems.
Amongst many Masdevalls the rare and pecu-
liar little M. ventricnlata longicaudata is now
in bloom.

One of the most distinct and remarkable, as
well as one of the rarest of all known Orchids,
viz., Moorea irrorata, was named in recognition
of Mr. Moore's ability in connection with
Orchids new and rare.

Glasnevin is indeed a garden to see, and see
again and again, and much ; indeed, most of its
interesting richness and value is due to its

242

THE GAR BE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[April 22, 1899.

present and previous directors, father and son,
both of whom have worked well and nobly in
the public service during the past half century
or more ; and to their high-toned endeavour
is due the fact that Glasnevin holds its own
amongst the highest and best of the botanical
gardens of our time. B.

New or Noteworthy Plants.

THAMNOCHORTUS INSIGNIS.*
We take the opportunity of describing

id

illustrating (fig. 93) this species, as its branching
spikes and shining pale chestnut-coloured bracts
render it very attractive. It is a native of the
southern portion of the Cape Colony.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

CCELOGYNE CRISTATA.
" One day," says Mr. Maries in a communication
to the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society,
"I came across masses of Ctelogyne cristata [at
Naini Tal] at an elevation of about 3000 feet. The
ground was covered with frost at nooD. The
branches of the evergreen Oak were covered with
Ccelogyne— rather a cold place. It shows how
hardy the plant is."

.Dendrobium Wardianum.

Each spring some of the newly-imported plants
display occasional flowers on the growths made
in the plant's native habitat which cause great
admiration in the beholders, but which are not to
be found subsequently. These abnormal flowers
usually appear on very stout pseudo-bulbs, which,
if the plant had been left undisturbed in its native
home, would have produced a greater number of
flowers, each proportionately smaller. In the case
of the new arrivals, the stored-up energy necessary
to perfect the larger number is thrown into the
lesser, with the natural result that the individual
flowers are more than usually large.

Captain G. W. Law-Schofield, New-Hall-Hey,
Rawtenstall, reports some phenomenal blooms that
verge upon 5 inches in diameter, with fine colour-
ing. He sends us a flower in which the two dark-
coloured blotches, usually seen in the species, are
reduced to a few almost invisible purple lines just
under the column. The tint of the disc is also
different, being of a Buttercup-yellow instead of
orange. In other respects the flower is that of a
good ordinary form, segments white, with rosy-
purple tips.

The next question is, will it remain constant 1
It is known that in the white forms of D. Wardi-
anum, which also show a suppression of colour on
the lip, the extent and intensity of the colour
occasionally are found to vary in the same plant
from year to year.

Captain Schofield mentions the fact that many
growers fail to keep Dendrobium Wardianum in
good condition for any length of time, and enquires
as to the cause. Is too much or too little heat
given ?

The Dendrobiums of this class require a high
degree of warmth, much moisture, and a bright
light— even a good amouut of direct sunlight when
growing ; but a rest, long, dry, and cool afterwards.
Probably fruitful causes of the loss of these deci-
duous species of Dendrobes are too much warmth,

' Tlumnochortus insignia, Mast., sp. nov. — Hiatus, culmis
erectia teretibus crasaitie pennae gallinacese albido-puneticu-
latis ; vagiuis imlmeis circa 3 cent, long, arete convolutis
coriaceis apice laceria ; infloreacentia temlnea 5—30 cent.
long, lineaii, pluristachya paniculatim cymoBa; apiculis
singulis approximatia ascendentibus ad 3 cent, longia ob-
longis basi spatbo lanceolata coriaoea ferruginea spioulS
ipsa dimidio brevime suffultis; bracteia suramin inerescenti-
1ms acutatis spathffl conformibus; floribus circa 5 mill. ;
segmentis externis lateralibua profunde alatis obtusis, weterii
minoribus o^longis; ovario obovoideo stylo simplici
Buperato. Riversdale, coll. '-'»'. 399a I -i1"'-. W !

and too close an atmosphere when they are not
growing.

Perhaps some of our readers who have mastered
the idiosyncrasies of D. Wardianum, so as to be
enabled to keep it in unabated vigour for a number
of years, will kindly describe their methods.

Dendrobium Ainsworthi X .
It is interesting to read in the Orchid Review
that this plant has flowered with W. Thompson,
Esq., Wa'.ton Grange, Stone, among a batch of
imported Dendrobium nobile. The artificially-
raised Ainsworthi has thus its parallel in Nature.

DlCTIONNAIRE IeONOQRAPHIQUE DES OrCHIDEES.
The last two parts which have reached us contain
coloured figures and descriptions of : Angra?cum
sesquipedale, Thouars ; Cymbidium eburneo-Low-
ianum var. Armainvilliense, Cogniaux ; Cypripe-
diumexul, O'Brien ; C. Morgania-, Rchb. f. ; Miltouia
Roezli, Nicholson, var. alba, W. Bull ; Oncidium
varicosum var. concolor, Cogniaux, var. Rogersii,
Rchb. f. ; Trichopilia coccinea, Warscewiez ; T.
crispa, Ldl. ; T. fragrans, Rchb. f. ; T. suavis, Ldl. ;
CattleyaMaroni, Hort. Maron ; Cochliodavulcanica
spleudens, 0. Froebel ; Cyperorchis elegans, Blume ;
Cypripedium insigue, Wallich ; C. i. nigrum, F.
Desb. ; C. i. Sandera, Rchb. f. ; C. Zampa var.
Eurydice, Cogniaux ; C. Calypso Oakwood var. ;
Epidendrum falcatum, Ldl. ; E. atropurpureum,
Willdenow; Miltouia Binoti var. intermedia, Cogn. ;
Oncidium maculatum, Lindley ; and Trichopilia
suavis, var. alba.

Orchids at Clark Lawn, East Sheen.

The collection of Orchids belonging to Sir Frede-
rick Wigan, Bart., is noted for the steady progress
which it has made in recent years, and the
number of tine varieties and hybrids added to it.
At the present time an uuicpie plant of Lselio-Cat-
tleya x Digbyano-Triansei, which was illustrated
in the Oardcners' Chronicle, January 1, 1898, is
now again in bloom. The flower has since that
time improved in substance and in the depth of
the bright rose - pink hue of its petals and
finely-fringed lip. Few hybrids show the value
of the hybridist's work better than this oue, the
second cross between Lselia Digbyana and forms of
C. labiata, and raised by Messrs. Jas. Yeitch &
Sou. In flower in the same house are plants of
Dendrobium x Sibyl superbum (bigibbum X Linaw-
ianum) ; Caltleya x Louis ("baton (Trianon x
Lawrenceana) ; several home-raised Spathoglottis
x aureo-Viellardi, with yellow flowers spotted
with crimson ; a well-flowered plant of Epidendrum
Stamfordianum ; Dendrobium fimbriatum oc'ula-
tum, D. albo-sanguineum, aud other Dendrobiums ;
and as instances of excelleut culture, a plant of
Ccelogyne pandurata, growing on a raft measuring
5 feet by 2 feet, which had borne six noble
flower-spikes; Dendrobium atro-violaceum with
fourteen leading growths ; the singular Megaclinium
falcatum, with numerous remarkable flattened
flower spikes, bearing on each side rows of singular-
looking flowers ; and the tiny Eria extinctoria,
which blooms here every year, is sending up
its flowers at the present time. At one eud of the
house is a group of fine specimens of Oncidium
ampliatum majus, laden with its bright yellow-
coloured flowers.

The largest of the Cattleya-houses showed a
group consisting of Cattleya Schrodene, which is
fast becoming a favourite ; some good Dendrobiums,
among them a fine form of D. x spleudidissimum
grandiflorum, D. nobile, Hutchinson's variety ;
the best form of D. n. Cooksoni, and some others.
On one side a noble plant of Lielia cinnabariua with
seven flower-spikes was remarked ; the true Lielia
prsestans from the Downside collection- a very
different flower from the modern importations of
the plant ; varieties of Lycaste Skinueri, including
the pure white-flowered one ; two plants of Tricho-
pilia suavis alba, Aeiides Warneri, and other rare
plants.

The warm house in which the Phalanopsis are
cultivated, aud in which more than 700 flowers

could have been observed at one time, is a reputedly
safe place in which to put any heat -loving plant.
Suspeuded near to the door are two superb plants
of Eulophiella Elisabethas, a plant whose flowers
are white, which the majority of cultivators fail to
grow satisfactorily. The plants at Clare Lawn under
Mr. Young's care are very vigorous, and carry leaves
3 to 4 ft. in length on old aud new growths alike, aud
fine spikes of flowers. lu this house, numbers of
Cypripedium barbatum, thickly set with flowers,
are planted on the stage in sphagnum-moss.
Cypripedium x Henry Graves, in bud ; C. Roths-
childauum, with stout spikes ; a lot of C. Law-
renceanum, C. Chamberlainiauum ; a fine plant of C.
callosum Sanders, bearing two spikes ; and some
other species. In this house Yandas, Bolleas,
Pescatoreas, and other plants of that reputedly
delicate nature thrive.

The rockery, partly planted with Ferns aud
species of Ficus, is a much admired house at this
season. On the highest points are placed great
specimens of fine varieties of Cymbidium Lowia-
mim. The plants are always grown in the position
they now occupy, and iu the winter are often sub-
jected to a very low temperature for au Orchid, but
without the least ill effect.

In a small house, containing some special plauts,
the rarer forms of Miltouia vexillaria, includiug
the plant of the magnificent M. v. Memoria G. D.
Owen, are thriving, aud the last-named and some
other plants sending up flower spikes. Here, too,
are a fine Miltouia Bleuana, two splendid plants of
Cypripedium bellatulum album, fine plants in
flower of Epidendrum x Endresii - Wallisii and
E. Wallisii, and a large number of plauts interest-
ing and rave, or remarkable for fine condition ; aud
especially a fine batch of unflowcred Ladio-Cattleyas,
stated to be of high reputatiou.

In the cool-houses Masdcvallias and Odouto-
glossums make a good display, among the latter a
very distinct hybrid called O. x Golden Sheen,
with bright citron-yellow flowers, the segments
having a white base, thin lower halves spotted
with dark red ; also a peculiar form of I ».
Adrians, aud a few other spotted kinds. Specially
noteworthy were Nanodes Medusae, Cymbidium
Devonianum, with four stout spikes ; Ornithidium
sophronites, which was carrying thirty-six of its
pretty scarlet flowers ; aud several plants of
Cymbidium tigrinum, grown and propagated here
from the original plant, that was acquired at the
sale of the Day collection.

Market Gardening.

HARDY FRUITS: THE PLUM.

(i ontinuedfrom voh xxU .. p. 380.)
Lot DON, in his Arboretum, says the Plum is not
indigenous to England ; but in the 1855 edition of
his Encyclopaedia he states there are several varie-
ties of Plum fonud wild in Britain, aud I in-
cline to that belief, as a form called the Bush or
Waterloo-Mogul of East Kent, is common on the
chalk hills of Kent around Wye and Brook, near
Ashford, as well as on the cretaceous formation that
stretches along both banks of the Lower Medway
to Rochester, and these form the favourite habitat
of the Sloe ; Primus spinosa) ; other counties may
have this variety as a native. There is no doubt
that the Plum, except in its confessedly Oriental
varieties, is one of the hardiest of our fruits ; aud
from a culinary point of view, next in utility to
the Apple. I may show undue partiality, but main
tain that there is a no more delicious fruit, pro-
duced without glass, or often even without the aid
of a wall, than the old Green Gage, though that
delicious fruit is considered by some as a simple
wilding, because it makes a reliable and prolific tree
on its own roots, but even when worked it is apt
to drop its branches when heavily ladeu. No stone
fruit has been so markedly improved as the Plum,
and some sterling kinds have been added to our list
during the last twenty years, especially among the

April '22, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

243

Gages and profitable market varieties. The late
Thomas Rivers may be credited with at least a
dozen new ones, while our latest additions and
uovelties have reached us from Japan, and are
included with the Cherry-Plums, being similar to the
well-known Cherry-Plum " Primus Myrobalana : "
aud if they succeed here, will precede, at any rate
in earliness, our most precocious varieties.

The Sloe has been thought by some botanists to
be the parent of our round Plums, but anyone
with mouth awry (?) after tasting one will be slow
to think so. The oval or egg-shaped kiuds are
referred to au oriental progenitor. As, however,
this fruit varies greatly from seed, I think we need
not go so far to account for the many sorts now in
cultivation, though history tells us various kiuds of

Damson, as its name imports, reached us from
Damascus, hence Damacine, now Damson.

As a culinary fruit the Plum takes a high position,
and beginning with Rivers' Early Prolific, and
ending with the west-country sort called Wyedale,
the season is prolonged from July to November,
and by adding the latest Bullaces, and beginning
with the Myrobellas, or Cherry Plums, it will be
no exaggeration to say we have fresh Plums for
half the year.

When the drying process is better understood
ami practised we shall hear no more complaints of
glutted markets, and good fruit being allowed to
rot on the tree, because it does not pay to gather
it. Alas ! I have seen lanes in East Kcut strewn
with good Plums blown from the'trees "which "over-

break with their weight of fruit, and such should,
therefore, be grown as bushes or pyramids ; while
others, as the Washington, Magnum Bonum, &c,
form stiff, upright trees. Damsons should be
planted round the orchard or plantation as a shelter
from the wind, aud may even be placed in the
hedges, where they will make lucrative screens.

As a rule, those Plums which permit the stone to
be cleanly removed are the best, the "clingstone"
section being mostly tit only for culinary use or
jam-making ; but the fence which divides these is
rapidly being removed by hybridists, and we now
have Plums of high quality, that are not perfect
Eree-stones, but why this difference is so patent a
fact I should much like to know.

I will divide 'Plums, into simply— I., [Dessert ;

Fig. 90. — the "people's garden," botank \\. gardens, glasnevin. (see p. 241.)

Plums were introduced about the time that the
English, under Henry of Lancaster, were driven
out of France, not long before the war of the Roses
had broken out, arresting civilisation and progress
for nearly a quarter of a century. Without
romauciug I will suggest that a gardener-soldier
brought home some Plum-stones from the plains of
Orleans, and sowed them on his return to England ;
while at the time of the Crusades we probably got
the Eastern sorts, either through Italy or Spain.

We kuow the Cage Plums are called in France
" Reine Claude," through haviug been introduced
into that country by the Queeu of Francis I.,
named Clauda or Claude ; while its current English
name is derived from the family cognomen of the
Gages, who first introduced and cultivated it here.
The celebrated Thomas Cromwell introduced in his
commercial career many kinds during the early
part of the reign of Henry VIII. ; while the

hung the hedges, but as this was previous to the
starting of country jam factories. I hope such is
uot the ease now. French Plums aud Prunes are
two qualities of dried fruit, produced in large
quantities in Alsace, in the Rhine Valley, and also
in Servia, along both banks of the Danube. But
we are getting finer fruit lately from California ;
aud I do not despair of home produce iu time
comiug to the front, if only the fruit-farmer will
grow the proper varieties, aud adopt the most
approved methods of curing.

Plums may be grown as standards, or as natural
bushes, aud do not require the amount of pruning
and attention that other fruits demand, as they
naturally form fruiting spurs along the main
branches which only require to be slightly thinned,
and any crossing shoots removed, to render the
tree abundantly fertile. Some varieties, asDenyer's
Victoria, are so prolific, that the branches often

and II., Culinary varieties ; but I must here inter-
polate the uote that some sorts which, grown in
the open, are merely fit for cooking, are often very
good from orchard-house trees, or from S.W. and
\\". walls, especially if left on the trees till they
begin to shrivel ; examples, Coe's Golden Drop,
Prince Englebert, and Mitchelson's, and, best of
all, Blue Imperatrice. Experience.
amtUvued.)

Market Gardening in the Midlands.
For a century or more market gardening has
been a distinctive feature of the rural industry of
East Bedfordshire. There the lower greensand
aud the Oxford clay meet, and the alluvial lands
formed by the river Ivel — a tributary of the great
Ouse — are largely composed of the sand from the
greensand hills and of the Oxford clay, the result-
ing soil being well adapted to the requirements of
the market-gardener. About the middle of the

244

THE GAB DENE B S' CIIBONICLE.

[April 22, 1809.

century several circumstances combined to give a
fresh impetus to the market-gardening industry in
this district. Not only was the demand for such
produce rapidly increasing, but the farmers were
Rtill restricted to a certain limited rotation of crops
by the covenants of their leases, and were conse-
quently prevented from catering for the vegetable
markets, even if they had wished to do so. In the
forties the Great Northern Railway Company ran
their main line through East Bedfordshire, and
thus opened up to that district the London market
and the northern markets. Later, the London &
North-Western Company ran their branch line
from Bletchley to Cambridge, intersecting the
Great Northern at Sandy, and thereby opened up
to the same district the markets west and east.
In these favourable circumstances the industry
nourished and extended, and there were soon
thousands of acres under market-gardening culti-
vation in this part of the country.

This industry has been affected by the agricul-
tural depression in several ways, but chiefly by
calling forth a competition with the market-gar-
deners on the part of the farmers. The latter, who
had previously looked down rather superciliously
upon the industry that had been carried on mostly
by holders of only a few acres, were now glad to
turn to any new crop or new system of culture that
would help them in their difficulties. Landlords
were compelled to cancel their restrictive cove-
nants, and to allow their tenants to grow what
crops they pleased. The result is, that many a
farmer now gives a considerable number of acres
to the production of what was once practically the
monopoly of the market-gardener. Moreover,
market-gardening proper was taken up in many
parts of the country which the railways had
opened up to the great markets. Then came the
still increasing competition of the foreigner, due
largely to the same causes— the universal agricul-
tural depression, and the increased facility of
carriage.

But the market-gardening industry of East Bed-
fordshire has continued to flourish and to increase,
in spite of both home and foreign competition.
Those engaged in it are men of energy and resource.
Untrammelled by the agricultural traditions of the
farmer, they have known how to move with the
times, and to adapt themselves to the requirements
of new circumstances. They have met competition
by constantly improving their methods, by intro-
ducing new crops, by anticipating or even creating
new demands, by unstinted manuring of their
lauds, and by pushing their productions into all
accessible markets, both home and foreigu. They
have retaliated upon the foreigner by seuding their
productions to the Continent ; and fresh green
produce has even been sent from Bedfordshire to
America. So rapidly do their methods change,
that fathers of middle age find themselves obliged
to accept innovations forced upon them by their
sous. Were our farmers to take a lesson from these
market gardeners, we should hear much less than
we do of the ruin of agriculture.

Just now these market gardeners have a fiscal
grievance of which the public will hear more than
it has yet heard ; and the public, in their turn, are
beginning to fear that the heavy manuring of largo
tracts of laud, to which the market gardeners are
compelled to resort in order to maintain a high
degree of fertility in their land, will become a
source of danger to health.

The fiscal grievance is this. Many successful
market gardeuers are liable to the income-tax.
They pay a high rent — on the best lands from
£4 to £6 an acre ; while the farmer's rent is low,
often averaging not more than XI an acre. The
farmer pays income-tax upon only one-third of his
rental, the market gardener upon the whole of hie.
At the same time, now that the farmer is free to
grow what he pleases, he, with his low rental and his
low income-tax, can, and often does, compete with
the market gardener by growing the same stuff.
The market gardener very naturally asks why ho

should pay three times as much income-tax as the
farmer upon laud which both crop in the same way ?
Practically, when the farmer's rent is £1 per acre
and the market-gardener's £4, the latter pays
twelve times as much income-tax as the former ;
but, of course, this does not touch the principle in
question, though it makes the grievance all the
sorer. Market-gardeners who appeal to the local
commissioners are told that they are not ' ' farmers, "
though they may hold as much land as some of
those who are classed as "farmers," and they get
nothing by pleading that the legal terminology
that differentiates "market-gardener" from
" farmer" is now obsolete. At least one case has
occurred in this district in which the market-
gardener has refused to pay, and has suffered
distress to be levied upou his goods.

The other difficulty referred to above is one
which does not admit of so easy a remedy. With
high rents and very heavy labour bills — some of
the crops requiring almost constant attention, the
market-gardener is compelled to crop his land as
often as possible, and to make each crop as abun-
dant as possible. In order to do this, he must use
enormous quantities of manure, both natural and
artificial. Much of the land receives every year,
or nearly every year, from thirty to forty, or fifty,
or even seventy tons of manure, mostly of farmyard
or stable manure. Hence the tilth-soil is nearly
always heavily charged with putrescent matter, or
matter imperfectly decayed, and not only mal-
odorous, Imt likely to be foul with dangerous
germ-life. And this state of things extends for
miles and miles, and also immediately surrounds
the villages. The moisture drains through the
earth into the springs, and contaminates the
wells. Moreover, the demand for constant
supplies of manure appears to necessitate the con-
stant presence on the railway -sidings of lines of
trucks filled with stinking and rotting stable and
other refuse. This condition of things is now
attracting serious attention, and offers a problem
very difficult of solution. The sooner the problem
is vigorously attacked the better. That it is inso-
luble no one need fear ; nor that the market-
gardeners will fail to attack it in the most resolute
aud intelligent way. The public affected by it is
themselves, and the small towns and villages that
mainly depend upon the market-gardening industry.
The men who have shown themselves able to meet
the world's competition successfully, are not likely
to be beaten by a difficulty at their own doors.
A. Ransom.

lating manures, or those which contain large
quantities of available nitrogen, are less likely to
produce hard, well-ripened wood than those in
which mineral matter, such as potash and phos-
phates, predominate ; aud the former of these
(potash) is an important factor in the production of
starch. In heavy soils, potash is usually plentiful
enough ; but in light ground, its application in the
form of kainit, wood-ashes, &c, proves highly
beneficial. Whatever nitrogen is applied to nursery
crops should either be in the form of farmyard
manure applied to a previous farm or garden crop,
such as Potatos or roots, or in the form of a green-
crop dug in. Well-rotted vegetable-mould also
makes a good dressing in soils deficient in humus,
but if the ground can be spared, nothing is better
than farmyard manure, applying it to an annual
crop before the nursery stock is put in. In some
soils, slaked lime or chalk also acts well, and
good loam can never do harm. In short, slow-
acting manures of any kind are more likely to
produce stout, healthy plants, than forcing manures,
which induce a quick and sappy growth. It is a
great mistake, however, to go to the opposite
extreme, and keep nursery ground in poor condi-
tion, for half-starved plants are never favourable
subjects for transplanting.

Stoutness rather than length should be the aim
of the grower, and this is best assured by regulating
the supply of soluble plant-food in the manner in-
dicated. Dry, sandy soils are more easily managed
in this respect than heavy ones, and the former
should always be chosen for most nursery crops in
preference to the latter. Judicious manuring,
clean ground, and plenty of room between the
plants, will usually mean properly-grown and
rooted nursery crops, providing we limit ourselves
to those species which have a reasonable chance of
success iu the soil and situation. A. C. Forlu a.

Forestry.

THE HOME NURSERY,
(Continued from ;»■ MM.)
Management. — What, then, are the conditions
essential for ensuring well-ripened wood ? Probably
the weather is the most important factor iu this
connection, and we know that a hot, dry autumn
is the best ripener of seed aud wood that we can
have. But the weather is, unfortunately, not under
our coutrol, and it is not, perhaps, at all times
possible to get exactly what, we aim at without it.
But we can exercise a very considerable control
over another important factor in plant growth,
viz. , soil, and it is with this that anything that
can be done by artificial means must be carried
out. Agricultural chemists roughly divide manures
into three classes — nitrogenous, phosphatic, and
potassic, aud their effect upon plant life generally
is pretty well known. Nitrogenous manures
stimulate growth, while the mineral manures
favour seed production and the elaboration of
those substances in the plant which enter so largely
into seed— carbo-hydrates. In the use of nursery
stuff these products of assimilation are not needed
for seed production or rather flower-buds, and are
available for stem and leaf growth, and if we can
by any means favour their formation and accumu-
lation, we ensure iu a great measure the following
year's growth. It is evident, therefore, that stimu-

DECIDUOUS CALANTHES.

Those species and varieties of Calanthe which are
deciduous, viz., C. Yeitehi, C. V. spleudcns, C. V.
alba, C. Victoria Regina, C. burfordiensis, C. bella,
C. Sedeni, C. Sandhurstiana, C. Harrisii, C. rever-
tens, C. nivca, C. Bryan, C. labrosior, C. luteo-
oculata, C. rubro-oculala, and C. aurantiaca are
among the most useful flowering stove-plants in
cultivation, their arching racemes of flowers
making them very effective when contrasted aud
arranged with Palms, Ferns, and foliage plants.
Generally where many varieties are cultivated, a
succession of flowers may be kept up during the
period from November to April, aud the flower-
spikes, when severed from the plants, last for
several weeks when placed in water and kept in a
cool apartment.

The plants require annual repotting, but the
exact date for the operation is difficult to
determine, although the most suitable time is
when the new growths are a few inches high,
there then being no danger of the young roots being
injured. My practice is to turn the plants out
of the pots aud shake them out of the old soil,
cutting off the dead roots to about 1 inch iu
length, the stumps of these helping to keep the
pseudo-bulbs steady in the soil till fresh roots
emerging seize upou it. Previous to re-potting,
the base of each pseudo-bulb should be carefully
examined for scale insects, which if not removed
at this period may cause endless trouble all through
the growing season. They may be easily eradicated
now with a stiff brush, and suds made of soft-soap.
Where the space in the glass-houses is limited, or
where a great quantity of cut bloom is required
from a small space, I would recommend putting
four or rive of the strongest pseudo-bulbs into
6-iuch pots, and the same number of smaller bulbs
iu 5-inch ones. Many cultivators pot Calauthes
singly, a plan which has its advantages, as during
the growing seasou the bulb cau, when necessary,
be treated separately, and when iu bloom nicer
arrangements are possible. The flower-pots made use
of should be either new or cleau old ones, and they

April 22, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

245

should be half -tilled with cleau crocks, with some
sphagnum moss placed on top, or in place of this
a layer of very fibrous soil — an important point, as
Calanthes require much water during active growth.
The soil should be of a firm retentive nature, yet
of such texture that the roots can enter it easily,
or it will become sour in a short space of time.
Good turfy loam answers the purpose best, and
may be used in the proportion of three parts, the
remaining part consisting of well decayed Oak-
leaves, coarse silver sand, and some finely-chopped

After potting the plants, place them in what
Orchid-growers term the best and lightest position
in the East-Indian house, although Calanthes may
also be grown to perfection in Pine-stoves and
Cucumber-houses. Let no water be afforded to the
soil for several weeks, which is a point of practice
that inexperienced gardeners should pay attention
to, because a wet soil at that stage will cause the
tips of the young breaks to turn back, impairing
the health of the plant, aud showing its ill effects
the whole of the season of growth. My practice is

FlG. 91.

IX THE IWMI-ll'irsK, KOTANI'-U, HAKHKNS, CI, \SXKV [ N , (SEB V. 241.)

sphagnum-moss, the whole being well incorporated.
.Some gardeners mix decayed cow-dung in a dry
state with these ingredients, but it often induces
the growth of a kind of white fungus, injurious to
the plauts. For this reason weak liquid-manure is
to be preferred when the plauts are well established
aud in need of assistance. In pottiug the plants,
the soil should be shaken down till it is moderately
firm, and brought to within an inch of the rim ;
the plaut being then placed on the surface and more
soil added, pressing this with the hand firmly on
to the old roots, burying the base of the plant
$ inch, aud making the surface level,

to keep the plants dry, and onlyjto damp between
the pots twice daily till growth has advanced, aud
theu to lightly spriukle the soil occasionally with a
tine rose watering-can. Under this sort of treatment
the roots soon approach and seize upon the side of
the pot, by which time growth has made consider-
able progress, and water may be gradually
increased in quantity. When the plants are quite
established, some roots appear ou the surface of the
soil, calling for a layer of fresh turfy-loam to be
placed lightly over them. This additional soil
promotes healthy growth. During active growth
the Calanthe should be afforded abundant aerial

moisture, much heat and light, but no strong direct
sunlight, this last being permitted only when the
new bulbs begin to form, and then only in a very
gradual manner, so as in time to inure the plant to
sunshine, which may amount to full exposure by
the time that the pseudo-bulbs are full grown.
Towards the end of the autumn, when the foliage
acquires a yellow tint, the amount of water must
be gradually diminished, until the season of
flowering is over.

Deciduous Calanthes may readily be propagated
by removing the old back pseudo-bulbs, aud insert-
ing them in flower-pots tilled with sphagnum-moss,
standing them, preferably, ou a shelf near the
glass, and lightly sprinkling the sphagnum-moss
when it has got dry. The pseudo-bulbs will soon
begin to make growth, and they may then be re-
potted as previously advised. The varieties that
flower later in the year than those previously
named, such as C. Regnieri, C. Stevensii, C. Sander -
iana, C. Williamsii, and C. gigas, greatly prolong
the season of Calanthes, and for that reason if for
no other they deserve general recognition.

Calanthes, when at rest, should not be placed in a
low temperature, but rather stood close together ou
a shelf in one of the warmest houses, and be kept
quite dry at the root. Calanthes thus treated will
start anew in the spring season with increased
vigour.

Seedlings raised from sowings made last year
may now be potted off, placing them to this
number of five or six around the rims of very small
pots, which should be hung up near the roof of a
warm, moist house, and be afforded the same kind
of treatment as that advised for the mature plants.
If any t 'alauthc plaut is bearing seed-capsules, let
it stand in a sunny position ; and when the seed-
capsules begiu to take on a brown tint a piece of
tissue-paper should be tied loosely around each, in
order to prevent the loss of the seeds. By the time
that the seed is ripe many of the plauts that are
now being re-potted will have made a considerable
uumber of roots, aud the seed may be sown on the
pots that contain the best-rooted plants. Until
it germinates, the soil should uot be afforded much
water, but should be merely kept moist by an
occasional sprinkle. Uuderfavourablecircumstances
the seed will have germinated in about three
mouths, but the seedlings must uot be disturbed
before the spring following. 11'.//. White, Burfurd,
Dorkinq.

Nursery Notes.

MESSRS. W. BALCHIN & SONS^ HASSOCKS'

NURSERIES.

Tiik Hassocks' Nurseries always afford interest
aud instruction to the visitor, especially in the
spring months, for the houses eoutaiu a very varied
collection of plants, many of them hardwooded.
If one would see the beautiful blue-flowered
Leseheuaultia biloba major, he should go to
Hassocks at that time of the year. We have seen
recently, at the Royal Horticultural Society's
meeting, some of the splendid examples of Boronia
heterophylla produced there. Plants not seen in
any other nursery are grown here with great success.
Amongst them, besides those named above, are
Tetratheca ericoides, or more properly, T. pilosa,
can be seen in good- sized densely flowered specimens,
literally wreathed with its festoons of charming
mauve-purple blossoms. Time was wheu this plant
was grown into large sizes for exhibition purposes,
but is now rarely or never met with at a flower
show. The blossoms have the additional attraction
of fragrance. There conld be seen many small
plauts of this striking Australian shrub, for it is
in demand, and there are plenty of small two-year-
old plants of Boronia heterophylla, iu company with
finer examples of an additional two years' culture.
What strikes the visitor about all the specimens,
and especially the small ones, is the size and
brilliancy of their blossoms.

Two distinct types of Boronia megastigma can

246

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 22, 1899.

be'seen here,^the"oneVform>hat"was~ brought out
a few years ago, is of a tall, distinctly erect, stiff
growth, like the common Broom ; the other the
delightful semi-pendent elegant form we sometimes
see exhibited from this nursery. It is this type
which is so largely propagated, a light coloured,
or what, without much stretch of the imagi-
nation, might be termed a white form of this
fragrant plant is probable, for as many as three
small specimens have each produced a shoot bearing
blossoms of this colour, and it is intended to
propagate them. Small plauts of this species, one
year from cuttings, were laden with blossoms.

B. serrulata is found there in large examples ;
also many small ones. This appears to be capable
of propagation at Hassocks with as much ease as
any soft-wooded plant. Some quarter specimeus
of Erica Spenceri, the flowers deep rosy-piuk,
afforded chaiming patches of colour ; and E. per-
spicua nana, soft pink, a vigorous grower, dwarf
and free ; a specimen of the pretty E. propeudens,
which came to the fore at a recent meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society, though by no means
new, was also in fine bloom, and no doubt destined
to find a congenial home in these nurseries where
the greenhouse Heaths do so well.

A flue specimen of Darwinia macrostegia (tulipi-
fera) grandly grown and flowered, affords another
illustration of the hard-wooded plants cultivated
here, and now there are no large exhibitions in or
near London in May and June, the " Tulip-bearing
Myrtle " is not seen in such form as it once was.
What is cultivated here as Acacia cordata is an
erect close-growing subject, carrying in great plenty
long vertical spikes of pale yellow flowers ; one
specimen with almost countless flower-stems was
fully 4 feet high and as many as 3 feet through.

A very large stock of the finely variegated hybrid
Campanula Balchini, illustrates what a most
valuable subject it is for decoration. It was raised
from C. isophylla alba x C. fragilis ; every leaf is
broadly margined with white ; it is most valuable
for forming an edging to a plaut stage. Grown in
a gentle warmth at this season of the yeai-, and in
full exposure to the light, a brilliant reddish tint.
pervades the points of the shoots, and adds greatly
to its decorative value. Partaking of the character
of growth of C. isophylla alba, it will presently
become covered with blue flowers, and is thus an
excellent companion. As a basket plant, it would
be difficult to name one superior to it. Streptosolon
Jamesoni was remarked in fine bloom. There
must be something in the atmosphere of Hassocks
which imparts such a rich reddish-orange colour-
ing to the flowers of this plant.

There is a large batch of seedling forms of
Kichardia Elliottiaua, but so far they do not afford
indications of any departure from the type. Some
fine forms of Hippeastrum were in bloom, large,
and of handsome shape ; and a batch of seedling
Diplacus glutinosus, from which much is expected,
has yet to flower. There is a large batch of Humea
elegans, which is always in brisk demand. Other
plants in flower were Azaleas, viz. , Bernard Andre
alba, a very fine white ; Cocardeau Orange, rich
crimson-salmon ; Empress of India, rosy-salmon, a
charming variety ; Madame K. de Wissen, a very
fine white, &c. , all profuse of bloom.

Of decorative plants, there were Lilium Harrisii,
Freesias, Astilbe, Richardia in variety, Hydrangeas,
especially the variety Thomas Hogg, &c. R. D.

The Week's Work.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

The Chrysanthemum. — The plants earliest struck
and now standing in4S's, being sufficiently well-
rooted may be shifted into 32's. The strongest
plants should be taken first, but if on being turned
out of their pots any are found to be insufficiently
rooted, such should be returned to their pots for
repotting in a week or ten days. The compost for

this potting may consist of three'parts turfy loam,
one part flaky leaf-soil, and one part rotten manure
from a spent hot-bed or Mushroom-bed, together with
as much coarse sand as will keep it open. The soil
should be made moderately firm in potting the plants,
and the latter put into cold frames, keeping them
rather close for a few days, and then removing the
lights in the daytime. The potting-soil being in a
properly moist condition, the plants will scarcely
require any water for six days. Before the tops of
the plants reach the glass, the frame should be
raised by placing a brick or two under each corner.
Plants struck late should be potted in 48's when
nicely rooted, and placed in a cold frame.

Violets.— The propagation of Violets for winter-
flowering should now be undertaken. For this
purpose, the strong side-growths or short-stemmed
runners that are found upon plants which have been
grown in frames should be pulled off and planted in
a not too sunny or dry place, at a distance of
about a foot apart. If there is a doubt about the
soil being sufficiently good, some short rotten
manure should be forked in before setting out the
runners. A mulch should be afforded the plants in
dry weather, and water when necessary. . What
runners appear should be removed early. A
sprinkling over-head in the evenings with a water-
pot or the syringe will be beneficial in dry weather
in keeping the plants healthy, and checkiug the
attacks of red-spider. The syringe with an elbow-
nozzle is the best implement, as by it the water
can be directed under the foliage, where spider
most do congregate.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury Gloucester.

The A/pi ia Garden. — If a garden, or part of a
garden, for the display of alpines is properly
formed and suitably plauted, it usually forms an
interesting and charming spot. It is best when it
is partially or wholly masked from view, the small
rocks usually employed in making it being better
adapted to the cultural needs of the plants than
to produce effect. So small and dwarf in growth
are some of these plauts, and many of them gems,
that it is advisable to grow them as single plants
than to plant in masses. In forming an alpine
garden, a position fully exposed to sunlight, and as
much raised above the surrounding level as possible,
should be chosen. It is also important that no
trees or big shrubs should be near it, as the roots
of these would impoverish the soil. The form of the
rockery may take the form of high ridges intercepted
with paths, and these ridges may be planted on either
side, varying aspects being chosen to suit the various
species of plants. Thorough drainage is essential,
and a soil varying in depth from 2 to 3 feet. In
this body of soil they root deeply, and once estab-
lished no drought has any effect on them. Any
kind of stone, excepting shale or ironstone, about
2 to 3 inches in thickness, and that is capable of
withstanding frost, may be used to form the pockets,
as the receptacles for holding plants are called.
These stones should be buried edgeways to part of
their depth. It is necessary to successful culture
that the soil afforded each plant should be suited to
its needs, some need lime in some form, some sand,
fine gravel, broken slate, and some thrive with the
least modicum of soil, and seem to subsist on the
moisture present on the surface of fissures in rocks,
as in the case of Phyteuma. Some of the species
will thrive in any porous loam mixed with decayed
Oak-leaves, sand and sharp grit. Many of the
tender plants withstand hard frost if kept dry,
which can be done by placing a sheet of glass on
the edges of the rock, thus covering the plant,
whilst admitting light and air. All succulent
plants, especially the Sempervivums, of which
there are a number of beautiful and dis-
tinct varieties, should have the soil made very
porous by mixing limestone or soft red brick,
broken small, with it. Many of the mossy Saxi-
frages form lovely cushions of greenery, and those
which form rosettes throw up lovely pyramidal
panicles of flowers. The alpine varieties of Phlox
amoena, P. procumbens, and P. setacea, Aubrietias,
Veronicas, and Androsaces, which trail and hang
over the stones of a rockery, make showy masses
when in flower. The species of Sedum, Hepatica,
Lithospermum, Dryas, Erodium, Globularia, Iberis,
Gentiana, Erinus, Drabas, Dianthus, Papaver, Sol-
danella, Ajuga, Lychnis, Linaria, Iris, Funkia,
Campanulas, Anemones, Acamas, make excellent

plants for an English alpine garden. Species of
Crocus, Cyclamen, and other small - blooming
bulbous and tuberous plauts give an interesting
display of forms and flowers during a greater
portion of the year. Many of the coarser alpines
are more suitable for, and thrive better in the
borders of herbaceous plants. Most alpines may
be removed and divided or plauted at the present
season. Those which cannot be divided must be
increased by means of seed or cuttings.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Furtlscue, Esq., Dropmore
Maidenhead.

Hoeimj Fruit Quarters. — When the surface is
sufficiently dry it is well to hoe the ground in order
to check the growth of small weeds, which are
germinating fast after the recent rains. Where
the ground about the trees and bushes is not
mulched, this hoeing will act in a two-fold manner
by keeping moisture in the soil as well as by killing
weeds. A small quantity of freshly-slaked lime
scattered about under the fruit-bushes at this
season is beneficial, and will to some extent assist
in keeping the attacks of insect pests in check.

Mulching Raspberry-beds. — The roots of the
Raspberry coming to the surface of the soil in
considerable numbers, are apt to suffer in medium
and light soils in times of drought, at least that is
the case in the warmer parts of the country, unless
mulched with decayed manure while the ground is
still moist. Liquid manure from stable-tanks, &c. ,
may also be poured on the land with advantage
at this season. Red and Black Currant-bushes
may be similarly treated.

Birds and the Fruit-buds. — The harm done to the
fruit-crops by tomtits and bulfinches is becoming
worse every year, the recent mild winters having
doubtless increased the numbers of birds. The
Preservation Act passed by Parliament has likewise
helped in this direction. In the Taplow district
the buds of Pear, Cherry, and Gooseberry have
already suffered badly ; some trees of the first-
named were quite denuded of their flower-buds
when these were in a somewhat advanced stage. I
have noticed that this spring the sparrows have
been more than usually destructive to Pears and
Gooseberries especially, while the small tits and
bulfinches have been as great depredators as ever.
Applications of Quassia-liquid, petroleum-emul-
sions, or of lime-wash have bad only a partial
effect, and after a few days they seemed to lose
their deterrent power.

Terminal blossom-buds. — Owing probably to the
hot weather experienced last summer and autumn,
fruit-buds developed in a more than usual degree
on the young wood of the same season's growth, in
many instances Pears and Apples being freely
studded with fruit-buds where wood-buds are
usually formed. This applies chiefly to Pears on
wall-trees aud bushes, and to Apples. The exten-
sion of the growth is thus likely to be checked if
the flower-buds at the ends of the principal shoots
are allowed to remain. It will be advisable, there-
fore, to examine the shoots forthwith, and remove
these flower-buds. This is more than usually
necessary in the case of young trees of the Pear on
walls.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Youno, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn. East Sheen.

"Mossing" the Plants of Phalanopsis. — The
species of Phala;nopsis which flower in the winter
having begun to make roots, the stale sphagnum-
moss may be replaced with new, any delay in doing
this being injurious ; indeed, it is advisable to
perform this operation on the whole of the species.
Baskets which are in sound condition will need
nothing further than to have the sphagnum-moss
picked out, dead roots removed, and to receive a
new coating of living sphagnum-moss ; whereas,
decayed baskets should be treated in the following
manner : first, remove the whole of the sphagnum-
moss and crocks, then immerse the basket in water
for the space of two hours, then proceed to remove
the bars by first taking out the corner pins, and
witli a thiu-bladed knife liberate the roots, an
operation made easy by the immersion. In order
to place the plant in a new basket, the better
method is to remove one or two of the bottom bars,
aud draw the leaves upward through the basket to
the required height, and replace the bars ; then
insert a sufficient number of crocks, to do away

April 22, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

247

with the need of a large body of sphagnum -moss.
(If late years, I have made use of the pot-shaped
baskets, and rind that owing probably to the
increased rooting-space these afford, the plants
have outstripped others placed in the ordinary
square baskets. In order to plant a Phalsenopsis
in one of the pot shaped receptacles, it is necessary
to undo the encircling wires, so that the roots be
not injured by introducing them between the bars.
It facilitates the removal of the stale materials
about the roots if water be withheld for a
few days previously; and that which cannot
be picked out with a sharp - pointed stick,
may be dislodged with water and the syringe.
For a considerable period of time the disturbed
plants should lie sparingly afforded water by means
of a fine rose-can, dipping being unsuitable before
the roots have permeated the moss. The tempera
tine of the house should now be increased to 15' by
day and (i)S as a minimum by night, and all avail-
able spaces damped once a day, the atmosphere
being kept sweet by judicious ventilation. When
sunlight is bright, some amount of shading is
necessary. 'When the weather seems likely to be
clear, the baskets and the undersides of the leaves
should be gently sprayed With tepid rain water,
which will obviate the necessity of affording fre-
quent application of water. Fhahenopsis Esmeralda
should have the lightest, and P. speciosa, Ludde
mauniana violacea, and other kindred species,
the most shaded portion of the house.

Dendrobium Wardianum and D. crassinodi were

grown last year in these gardens in the Cattleya
house, and the plants did better than when in
former years they had been grown in tin' East
Indian-house. The plants are now in a forward
state with roots only just about to appear, that is,
at that stage when it is the safest to replace the
old material with the new. The most suitable
compost consists of good fibrous Orchid-peat aud
sphagnum. moss. When the job is finished afford a
copious application of water, and hang them where
the syringe may be used amongst them in hot
weather, and the shade is not very dense.

Dendrobium Victoria Regina. — The blue-flowered
Dendrobium and the pretty hybrid 1). •: Cassiope
are most at home in the Cattleya-house, hung up
on the shady side. Neither requires a long rest
period, aud less water should be afforded during
the winter.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strugnell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Tomatos. — The forwardest batch of plants raised
from an autumn sowing, are ripening their fruits,
and will with fair treatment continue the supply
until the fruits are fit for use on the new-year sown
plants. Water must be afforded with care, particu-
larly in 1 night sunny weather, for if the soil be
allowed to get unduly dry, and is then afforded
water freely, many of the forwarder fruits may
crack, and be spoiled. It is far safer to maintain
the soil in an uniformly moist state than to alter-
nate from wet to very dry. Fruits that are fit
should be gathered on alternate days and placed in
the fruit-room till sent to the kitchen. All useable
fruit should lie plucked before it has become dead
ripe. If the white Tomato-fly attack them, paint
the hotwater-pipes with flowers-of-sulphur in lime-
wash, which is a first-rate remedy, if they are
heated sufficiently to give off an appreciable amount
of sulphurous vapour. If Cucumbers occupy a por-
tion of the house, however, I would not advise the
use of sulphur, as it affects foliage badly sometimes.
If the Tomato crop is heavy, apply manure, and
top-dress with fresh soil in small quantities. Sup-
press all superfluous and lateral growth so as to
divert the sap to the fruits. Spring-sown plants,
if growing aud fruiting freely, will need plenty of
moisture at the root, and to be neatly tied to
stakes or to the trellis. From four to five trusses
per plant will be sufficient for a crop on single-
stemmed plants, the leader being stopped as soon
as the latest truss of flowers is visible. A stimulus
either in the liquid state or as a powder may be
applied, following the rule of little and often
rather than in strong doses. Over-vigorous plants
must lie afforded only clear water, but this fails
sometimes on account of a large border, or excess of
manure or leaf-mould in the soil. The best kind
of soil is a turfy loam, with only a small proportion
of charred soil. This will usually grow Tomatos suc-
cessfully under any condition, manure being applied

only when the roots have occupied the whole of the
soil. As a rule, the Tomato in private gardens does
not obtain so much attention as other fruits, nor are
the conveniences for growing the plants all that
they should be, and seldom is a house set apart for
growing and fruiting them. They do best when
planted iu a border, or if grown in pots these should
be stood on coal-ashes or other material into which
the roots may penetrate. For supplying a late
crop, a sowing may now lie made, if a suitable
position can be set apart for them in the autumn.
During the summer months plants may be fruited
in the open air, grouping them in 12-inch flower-
pots, and placing these on planks in the front of a
south wall. Xo plant put out of doors iu pots
should be allowed to root into the soil, as when
removing to the glasshouses a great check is
inflicted. If the seeds are sown in boxes, and
they are thinly scattered, the plants may be
potted singly, with good bulbs of soil attached
to each. Such plants grow more sturdily,
fruit earlier, and give much less trouble than
those which stand thickly iu t lie seed-pan, and re-
quire careful handling and shading for some days
after their roots have been*so disturbed. The Mus-
tard and* 'ress fashion of sowing Tomato-seed can-
not be too severely condemned, resulting as it does
in great loss of time, much labour, and poor results.
The practice of starving Tomato-plants with a view
of bringing them into early bearing is a mistake.
At this season it is a waste of time to shift Tomato-
plants periodically, and once well established iu
liii-, they may be shifted directly into their fruit-
ing-pots, ruakiug the soil very firm. Growth will
tin ii lie sturdy, and the crop a good one. Do not
crowd the plants, as it tends to late fruiting.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markuam, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotbam Paik, Barnet

Sj/cnl Crops. Xo time should be lost iu clearing
the land of the stumps of Brussel Sprouts, Broccoli,
aud of all exhausted crops, as to leave them would
impoverish the soil needlessly. As a rule < lelery
may follow these, and early Potatos. It the
latter, dig the laud of a good depth, breaking up
the soil as finely as possible so as to prevent tin
tubers being ill-shapen, and dig in plenty of well-
decayed manure if the land is in need of enrich
mint. The trenches for Celery should lie dug out
not too deeply, and the top spit put at the bottom,
ami covered with a layer of rotten manure. The
distance between the Celery-trenches should be
from ."i to 7 feet, .i for early crops and single
lines, aud wider for double lines and later crop
Tin- ridges may be cropped with French Beans,
Lettuces, Spinach, and Turnips, or any vegetable
or salad plant that matures rapidly. Any Celery
still in the trenches should be dug up and laid in
on a north border, the ridges levelled, and tho
land iiiub 1 1 1 in. in readiness for being sown with
Peas or Runner Beaus, Sec.

lu i lie colder parts of the country and
on heavy, adhesive soils, the main crop of Carrots
should lie sown without further delay, or as soon as
it is in a suitable condition for sowing. Before
anything else is done, the drills should be sprinkled
with fresh soot and wood-ashes, useful in warding
off attacks of the maggot. Carrot-seed sown early
on a warm border having now germinated, the
Dutch-hoe should be passed between the rows,
and if weeds are appearing these should be drawn
out by hand and taken away.

Broccoli. — Make sowings of the main crop
varieties, aud in a fortnight a second sowing.
Knight's Protecting, the Ledsham lone of the latest),
Goshen (also late), Model, and Methven June are
very trustworthy varieties, bet the seed be put
into shallow drills drawn at 9 to 10 inches apart,
and if convenient let the seed be well iu the open,
so that the plants may grow sturdily and short
legged, a very important matter. The soil of the
seed-bed should be made firm, and the seed well
coated with red-lead, first damping it with a little
milk or linseed oil. Keep a sharp watch on the
bed, and should the slugs make havoc with the
plants, dust the soil daily with soot and wood-ashes.
A good kitchen gardener is always on the alert, and
will require no instructions in regard to this matter
by the head gardener.

Early Caidijlowers. -The plants from the spring
sowings should by this time lie large enough to lift

with a ball, and plant on a warm border. They
should be taken up and planted with a trowel with
as little root disturbance as possible, loosening the
surrounding soil, and fastening the root mass
firmly. Cauliflowers differ from Broccoli, and
require a fairly light rich soil. The plants win-
tered under handlights should now have almost
complete exposure, the tops being put on the
glasses when frost is expected. It will soon be
prudent to remove them altogether.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.
Methods of Dealing "it/, Brood.— In early locali-
ties something may be done during the present
month towards equalising the deposits of brood in
the various combs of the brood-nest. My ideal of
a stock when ready for supers is that it be filled
with brood or eggs from side to side, and top to
bottom, excepting at most a few days' supply of
food in case of a serious reverse of weather. Bee-
keepers should work up to this ideal all along, and
whether the hive contains four frames or fourteen,
each frame should conform to its requirements.
"Whatever operations are necessary during the
month, care should be taken to keep the brood-nest
warm, and even moist. Winter packings must not
be removed till the bees require more room.
Water-troughs, fitted with moss or tea-leaves, may
be placed in sheltered sunny spots about the apiary,
and kept regularly supplied with water, if thero
are not convenient drinking places close by. If,
however, running watercourses are near at hand,
it is a waste of labour to provide troughs, and bees
will pay no attention to them.

/', i ding. -Good stocks will soon be well " under
weigh." Brood-rearing will be makiDg rapid pro-
gress, and when natural pollen can be gathered,
the stimulus already acquired will be continued,
even without any care on the part of the bee-
keeper. Honey from natural sources will, how-
ever, be scarcely obtainable iu sufficient quantity
for the needs of stocks for weeks to come, and
attention must be given even by those who wish
to do as little as possible, that the prosperous con-
ditionof breeding stocks maybe continued without
.i check until the honey harvest opens. Artificial
supplies by means of a feeder must be given in all
cases where want is threatened. Those who wish to
stimulate all they can, and do not grudge the
trouble, will keep on uncapping a few inches of
sealed stores daily in each hive, or maintain a con-
stant though slow supply of very thin syrup
through the feeder. Care must be taken that no
more syrup is given than the bees require for
present use, and should they be found to have got
too much, the supply should at once cease, and
the knife be applied frequently to the sealed combs.
In using the knife do not remove the comb from
the hive, nor even cut the caps from the cells. It
is quite easy to force all the bees down by smoking,
so as to leave the sealed portion of the comb
visible, when the flat of the knife may be drawn
firmly over the cells, or the surface of the capping
scratched, the lids being only bruised. This avoids
trouble from daubing honey about, and leaving
portions of loose cappings to be used by the bees to
form connections between their combs.

Book Notice.

A Text-Book of Agricultural Zoology.—
By F. V. Theobald, M.A. (Blackwood & Sons).
Tills is a little book treating of " the life histories,
the habits, the peculiarities, of all the animals
which affect for good or for evil, our stock and
crops, whether on the farm or in the garden, and
the structure and development of domestic animal-. "
It is clearly impossible iu a little volume of 51 n
pages to explain the peculiarities of all the animals
with which the gardener or the farmer is concerned,
but it is remarkable what a large amount of informa-
tion the author has been enabled to compress in his
limited space. The illustrations are, generally
speaking, excellent and relevant. An appendix on
the prevention and destruction of insect-pests, is a
valuable feature of the book, which is one which
should find a place on the shelves of every
agricultural student.

248

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 22, 1399.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and sclcel
photographs or drawings, suitable, for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c. ; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs tliey wish tlie Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, April 22— Royal Botanic, Meeting.

( International Horticultural Ex-
,.,..„.,. . o..' hibition at Mont St. Amand,

hUNDAi, ArniL3tK Guenti Belgium, continued tu

C May 9.

TUESDAY,

ArRiL 2')

SALES.
( Imported and Established Orchids,

J} at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

/'Clearance Sale of Orchids and
Stove Plants, at The Gardens,
Iiisterne, Hants, by order of the

„ ,, ,_ , ,. Rev. Cecil Mills, by Protheroe &

WEDNESDAY, Apbil26 Morris.

Japanese Lilies, Palm Seeds, Roses,
Greenhouse Plants, &c, at Pro-
theroe & Morris* Rooms.

FRIDAY,

„ , I Imported and Established Orchids,
ArRiL is y at protneroe f. Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period April 9 to April 15, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

1S99.

Direction of Wind.

Temperature of
the Air.

Tempera-
ture of the
Soil at 9 a.m.

o
w

OS

At 9 a.m.

i

a

<

Z

p.

n
-*=
o

<

leg.

<

05 <n

deep

Tempi
Gras

April C

to
April V

leg. .leg.

in

CD

"So

W

deg.

o

1-1

<2

<

deg.

H

Cfl .
03

is

o

, !■

deg. ins. cleg.

.leg.

Sun. 9

W.N.W.

40-K42-H "i4-l

34-00-30 I i-5

17-2

46-5

24-5

Mou. 10

S.W.

54-8 51 659-8

13-9 0-25 47-8

16-9

40" 5

42-2

Toes. 11

N. tf.W.

429 40-7 47-6

40:1

0-02

47-s

47-4

46-7.

28-5

Wed. 12

W.

11 ■;, 37-851-5

311".'

(V0.r.

45' 7i

47'2

46-8

23'5

Tur. 13

S.E.

430 4V9 19-5

38-9

0-22

463

I'M

468

31-5

Fri. 14

W.N.W.

42-7

41-5 47-1

410

012

46-5

16-8

46-8

38-1

Sat. 16

W.N.W.

45-8

43-1 51'9

40-6

40-2

46-8

46-8

36-5

Means...

45-2

42-7 51'li

38-6

Tot.
0'96

46'5

47-1

46-7

32 'O

Ri marts.— A dull and almost sunless week, with cold winds
and much rain.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick. — 49 6'.

A. i. u. Temperatures : —

London.— April 19 (12 p.m.): Max. fir ; Min. 39'.
Provinces. — April 19 (6 p.m.) : Max. 57°, Norwich ; Min.
41°, off St. Andrews.

Royal Horti-
cultural Society

Out of the ten or more meetings
of various kinds held on Tuesday
last, at and in connection with
the Royal Horticultural Society, none was of
more significance for the future than that
presided over by Mr. Elwes. Those who are
familiar with the history of horticulture in
:. ... i .1, and of that of the Royal Horticultural
Society in particular, will call to mind the
services which were rendered in olden times
by the collectors sunt out at the cost of
the Society. Specially brilliant were the ser-
vices of Douglas, hardly less so those of
Fortune. After a time the practice was dis-
continued, mainly on account of financial
difficulties, but partly because the great nursery-
men undertook the work for themselves. Then
arose the passion for Orchids. Collectors were,
and still are, sent out in numbers. So nume-
rous and so industrious are they that it is no

idle fancy to dread the extinction of some of
the more valued species. But this remark
applies particularly to Orchids. With few
exceptions our importing nurserymen confine
themselves chiefly to Orchids.

What are spoken of as " new plants " are now
comparatively rarely shown. Hybrids and
cross-breeds, even among Orchids, now take the
most prominent part in our exhibitions, so far
as novelties are concerned. The nurserymen
doubtless know their own business best, and
they tell us that ' ' new plants " do not pay, and
that the profit to be obtained from hardy shrubs
or herbaceous plants is not .sufficient to make it
worth while to send out collectors.

Having some inkling of the treasures yet to
come from Western China and other districts,
we venture to think this reticence shows a want
of enterprise. We have repeatedly called at-
tention to the dried plants collected by Dr.
Henry, the Abbe David, and others, some of
which have been figured in various readily
accessible botanical periodicals. But whatever
be the outlook commercially, there is happily
a band of cultivators who love plants fur their
own sakes, rather than for the money they may
be worth, a band who are not swayed by
fashion, but solely by the interest or beauty
that a plant possesses. These gentlemen not
unnaturally think that the time has come when
the Royal Horticultural Society might take steps
to promote the collection and distribution of
interesting plants at present untouched by com-
mercial collectors. There is no fear whatever
that the sources .are exhausted. The great con-
tinent of North America we may well leave to
our cousins, they are not likely to overlook
anything that is good ; Russia will doubtless
monopolise Central Asia and Manchuria ; but
there are, omitting purposely strictly tropical
and semi-tropical districts, vast areas in China,
Nepal, Tibet, Upper Burm ah, Assam, parts of
Asia Minor, Greece, Macedonia, and even in
the Danubian provinces of Europe, from which
supplies might certainly be obtained.

The Altai Mountains have been explored by
Ledebour and other Russian botanists, but
note what Mr. Elwes says in the Journal of the
lAnnean Society about the flora of this region,
and its capability of supplying the require-
ments of the horticulturist, as observed in a
recent visit. We take a few extracts from this
paper almost at ran. loin ; -

"To give an idea of the alpine flora of the South-
eastern Altai, I may mention a few of the plants
which were most conspicuous for their beauty near
our camp on the Darkoti, or Tachety river, as
Tchikatcheff spells it, thirty miles south-west of
Kuch Agatch, at about "000 feet. I liave never,
either in the A"lps of Europe, in the Sikkitn Hima-
laya, iu Colorado, California, or anywhere else,
seen such a perfect natural garden of beautiful
alpine flowers as I saw here iu the middle of July.
Among the most conspicuous were the lovely Pri-
mula nivalis, Pall., which strongly resembles P.
Parryi of Colorado ; Dracoccphalum grandiflorum,
which grew in sheets of ccerulean blue; Polemo-
nium pulcliellum ; Gentiana altaica ; Pedicularis
verticillata, P. foliosa, P. comosa ; Allium sibi-
ricum, or seuescens, the most ornamental of its
genus ; Linum eceruleum ; Iris Tigridia, Bunge ;
Pyrethrum pulchellum ; a lovely blue Corydalis,
growing in wet places, which Mr. Baker cannot
name, and which may be new; a beautiful Aqui-
legia, named A. glaudulosa at Kew, but much
finer than that plant as we know it in our gardens ;
several pretty species of Astragalus, Lloydia sero-
tina ; and many well-known Arctic and high Alpine
plants, such as Papaver alpinum, Draba ochroleuca,
and Saxifraga oppositifolia, which were found as

high up as S500 feet, where the flora and scenery
reminded one strongly of the high fjeld of Nor-
way, and Dryas octopetala, which covered the
curious dry gravelly ridges on the hillsides iu
many places.

The only vegetables which we had during our
stay at these altitudes were Rhubarb (II. Rbapon-
ticum) and wild Onions ; but the Tartars were also
fond of the young stem of a species of Heracleum,
which was too strong for my taste.

The Larch, Larix sibirica, ascended here to a
little over 7000 feet. I saw young trees at this
elevation about 1J feet diameter aud 7 feet high,
which showed twenty-five years' growth ; and a
very remarkable stunted old Larch, ." feet in
diameter, and not more than 20 feet high, which
must have been many hundreds of years old.
Away from these there was no fuel but Willows
aud dry horse-dung, the common fuel of Mongolia
aud Tibet.

This valley is remarkable for its maguilicent
forests of Pine, Pinus sylvestris, which exceed any-
thing 1 have ever seen before. In some places I
counted as many as twenty or thirty trees to the
acre, of an average girth near the ground of from
6 to 10 feet, and carryiug their girth higher up
than I have ever previously seen, so that at a
height of SO or 100 feet the tree would still be
over a foot in diameter. The Russians, however,
who, as described by a well-known German
forester, are "everywhere and at all times true
wasters aud destroyers of forests," are making rapid
iuroads upon this magnificent timber, which is
felled and floated down the Bija and Obb for sup-
plying the towns and villages in the Steppe country
northwards. Fire also is rapidly wasting many of
the hill-sides, and wheu the Pine has been burnt
off, its place is usually taken by Poplar aud Birch."

At the meeting to which we have referred,
there was an interesting discussion by Messrs.
Elwes, Lynch, Dewae, Bukbidge, G. Paul,
Selfe Leonard, and others. The greatest
difficulty soemed to be to obtain a zealous col-
lector, competent to do the work thoroughly,
and who would not tlood us with rubbish — one
who would work more from the love of travel
and of plants than from monetary considerations
only.

As to finances, the feeling of the meeting was
so hopeful that no serious difficulty was appre-
hended on this score.

The result of the discussion at the meeting
was the adoption of a resolution asking tin:
sympathy and co-operation of the Council.

We cannot doubt that this will lie given, and
SO we look forward with confidence to the
despatch of a collector to one or other of the re-
gions named either at once or early in the next
year.

The H.'stio

This is a group of Sedge-like
perennial plants, with tall, dry,
Rush-like stems, almost destitute
of true leaves, and with flowers in spikelets,
sometimes few in number, at other times very
abundant. They are, like the Cape Heaths,
almost exclusively confined to the extreme point
of south-west Africa, and about an equal number
is found in the corresponding part of Australia.
Nevertheless, there is no species common to
both countries, and there is plenty of matter
for speculation as to how it has come about
that these two regions, and practically none
other, should be tenanted by these plants.
Latterly, indeed, one species has been found in
Natal, and one in the mountains of British
East Africa, so that we look for further deve-
lopments as the flora of these regions becomes
better known. One outlier, and a very sin-
gular one, is a species which was discovered in
Cochin-China by M. Godefroy Lebeuf ; and
another exists in Chile. With these exceptions

April 21, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

249

Fig. 92. — thamnochobtus spicig'erus: colour of the flowers chestnut-brown, (see p. 250.)
a, Male flower from within ; p, Female flower from within ; c, Male spikelet ; d, Female spikelet : e an.l f. Vertical sections through the spikelets ;

o, Sheathe and Btera.

25(1

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 22, 1S99.

the geographical distribution is limited as above
stated.

Very few of them are in cultivation. Most
of them are so uninviting that even our botanic
gardens contain few of the species. Till lately,
indeed, we knew of but one — the plant named
erroneously Willdenovia teres, but which is
more correctly called Restio subverticillatus.
We have known the male plant of this for many
years in the botanic gardens of Oxford, Edin-
burgh, and Kew. Its graceful habit and
pendent plumes of tine needle-like foliage
render it, unlike most of its fellows, very orna-
mental. Whilst most of these plants are
unattractive, there are some that are more
ornamental even than the species just named ;
such are Leptocarpus paniculatus, the very
numerous male spikelets of which are arranged in
elegant panicles ; Restio giganteus, and various
species of Thamnochortus. Some of these have
of late been introduced from the Cape for the
purposes of house or church decoration, for
which they are especially suitable. The tlowers
of some of these have been sown in the vain hope
that they would grow — we say vain hope, for the
sower has not always recognised the fact that
what he has sown are the male flowers ! These
plants are, in fact, dioecious, the male flowers
are on one plant, the female on another.

To make matters worse for the unfortunate
botanist, it so happens that the male plants are
sometimes very different in appearance from
the female plants, and it is by no means unlikely
that those responsible for the naming of these
plants have occasionally mismatched them, and
considered as mates plants that really do not
stand in that relation to each other. And
this leads us to remark that although the
species are dioecious, and, as it appears, the
pollen from the male must be wafted by the
wind to the stigmas of the female, for there is
nothing to attract insects to the flowers, yet,
there is little or no evidence of hybridisation
among them.

The species are sometimes very difficult
of recognition, yet when once the observer
gets a grasp of them he will find compa-
ratively little evidence of variation in them, and
none of hybridisation. This is, of course, a
general statement, not of universal application,
for some of the species show a considerable
amount of variation.

It is curious to see how well these plants are
adapted to the conditions in which they grow,
and how every effort seems to be made to
economise energy, and avoid superfluous growth,
and consequent exhaustion. Their tufted or
creeping habit is adapted to the sandy soil in
which they grow, whilst the almost entire
absence, or great reduction of the foliage, obviates
excess of transpiration which in such a climate,
and in such a dry soil, would speedily exhaust
the plant. Male flowers are produced in
abundance, but female flowers are, not always,
but, usually, relatively scarce. Very often there
is but one female Mower to each spikelet, and it
is rare for more than one seed to be perfected,
so that the strain on the resources of the plant-
is reduced to a minimum ; at the same time,
the chances of the perpetuation of the spebies
are correspondingly diminished.

The seed-vessel or fruit is capsular and
dehiscent, or nut-like and indehiscent. In
the former case, the solitary seed is hard and
bony, but in the nut-like fruits it is the fruit
that is hard and bony ; whilst the covering of
the seed is thin and membranous.

These facts indicate that the plants areexpi ised
to unpropitious climatal conditions, and that

their structure and conformation are corre-
spondingly adapted to enable them to maintain
themselves in the struggle.

Circumstances seem to point to the conclusii in
that the Restiacene are an old family, once more
widely spread than they are now, when the}'
seem to be doomed to extinction at, geologically
speaking, a no very remote period.

Among the more ornamental species, some of
which were shown at a recent meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society by Messrs. F.
Miller & Co., of Fulham Road, and which
are amply worth introducing, and which could
be cultivated in any ordinary greenhouse, are,
in addition to those formerly named, Restio
egregius, R. purpurascens, R. Rhodocoma,
Dovea mucronata, a robust species growing in
wet or damp places; two species of Lampro-
caulos, one with shining golden-brown stems,
the other with stems of a brilliant metallic-green
colour; Thamnochortus spicigerus, T. argentens,
Cannomois cephalotes, and the species of Cera-
tocaryum. Most of these might be procured
from the Cape with little difficulty ; but if in the
form of seed, there would be some uncertainty as
to whether the seedlings might prove to be male
or female, a circumstance that might lead to
temporary disappointment. The two species,
of which we give figures are Thamnochortus
spicigerus (fig. 92, p. 249) : and Thamnochortus
insignis, Mast. , a hitherto undescribed species of
striking appearance, and a stature of ."• or 4 feet
(see tig. 93, p. 251). The illustrations give a
sufficient idea of their general appearance.

A New Hall for the Royal Horticul-
tural SOCIETY is becoming more and more
urgent. The space the Drill Hall is capable of
affording is by no mcaus equal to the requirements
of such an exhibition as that held there this week,
when much confusion was inevitable. The number
of separate committee meetings of various kinds
more or loss connected with the (Society, held on
the same day, is also very embarrassing.

ARABIS alpina.— The new double-flowered
variety of this plant was exhibited at the Drill
Hall show on Tuesday last.

Rose Fortune's Yellow, is so finely exhibited

at the Drill Hall each spriDg from the gardens of
Lord Wantage, that we wonder a greater number
of gardeners do not cultivate this variety success-
fully. The peculiar tint of the blooms, and their
pleasing fragrance are always greatly admired. It
is certainly worth planting in any garden that
boasts a covered rosary, or even a green bouse or
conservatory where there are pillars to furnish.

A Poisonous Bouquet.— It is reported in

the daily press that a lady in Omaha (Nebraska)
was on the 13th ult. sent a handsome bouquet of
flowers, together with a box of bon-bous. After
smelling these tlowers and partaking of some of the
sweets, she became unconscious, and was reported
to be dying. A subsequent examination showed
that the presents had been impregnated with
prussic acid. Seldom, we hope, have llowers been
used for so diabolical a purpose ; but the develop-
ments in this ' ' poison by post " business are
appalling.

The Development of Cyprus. — Colonel
Fvler has published, through Percy Lund, Hum-
phries & Co., a little work dealing with the history
and physical features of Cyprus. The island is so
full of interest to the arclueologist and naturalist
that we scarcely think full justice has been done to
it ; the numerous illustrations with which the book
is provided only whet our curiosity and make us
wish for more. At present, we are told, there are
no good hotels, else, Cyprus would be an excellent
winter resort.

Apple Ben Dav.s.— A writer in American
Gardening, who draws attention to an instance in
Nebraska where the public refused to buy this
well-known American Apple, wlulst other varieties
were to be obtained, advises the orchardists to
" Ship Ben to Europe." If " Ben " should arrive
here in greater quantities than usual, we suppose
the reason will be that the Americans have lost
their conceit in this variety.

New York Botanic Gardens.— Dr. D. T.
Macdougal has been appointed Director of the
Laboratory of this establishment.

Kew. — In 1842 it was said of Kew that it was
"a retired Hamlet," hamlet with a capital (see
Botanical Magazine, t. 3922). It hardly auswers to
that designation now. At that time it was
estimated that there were more Cedars iu Britain
than on Mount Lebanon itself, and more Cactea;
• " than fall to the lot of any single empire or
republic iu all the Western World." At that time
Woburn Abbey, Hendon, and Boyton House,
Wilts, were the homes of great collections of these
plants. Lambert presented his collection to Kew,
just prior to his death. This took place at Kew,
whither he had been removed to be near that
Botanic Garden, in the prosperity of which he had
always taken such a lively interest.

Apples from the Antipodes.— The officials
of the Orient line of steamers advise us that the
Omrah sailed from Adelaide on the Gth iust. with
2S,0U0 cases of Apples; and was followed by the
India from Adelaide on the 13th, with 17,000 cases
of Apples.

FRITILLARY.— Mr. Elwes obligingly sends us
numerous tlowers of species of Fritillary, to show
how little injured they were by 1S° of frost during
three successive nights. A flower of F. imperialis
maxima measures .'i inches in depth, aud is of a
rich reddish-orange colour. The inodora variety
differs from the others, not only in the absence of
odour, but also iu the more rounded perianth seg-
ments. It is of a very deep orange colour, strongly
Hushed with purple towards the base. Flowers of
Lilium Thomsouianum, Lrythronium, aud Muscari
aceompauied the Fritillarias.

To Encourage in Children a Love for
Gardening. — In connection with the Hanley
(Stan's.) Horticultural Fete, to be held July 5 & (i,
there will be a children's section. The committee
is now appealing for gifts of surplus plants or seeds
for distribution amongst the children attending the
elemeutary schools in the town. The plants will
have to be grown by the exhibitors for a period of
eight weeks previous to the exhibition. Such work
has been practised with gratifying success in con-
nection with the People's Palace iu the East of
Loudon.

The Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund.—

We have much pleasure in making the announce-
ment that Sir Reginald Hanson, Bart.. M.P.,
has consented to preside at the Annual Dinner
of this charity, which will take place at the Hotel
Metropole, on Tuesday, July IS.

A Curious Parasite. — It may interest your
botanical readers to know that Cynomoiium
coccineum, L. (Balanophorese), is now dowering iu
my garden ; it is growing on the root of Atriplex
portulacoides, L., and has sent up four heads.
This extraordinary plant is a native of Sicily.
Lampedusa, and Southern Spaiu ; an excellent
figure of it is to be seen in Kernek & Oliver's
Natural History of Plant", vol. i.. p. 197.
T. Hanbury, La, Moviola,, April 15.

Vandalism.— We had been gradually coming
round to the belief that injuring Hower-bcds and
the uprooting of shrubs, &c. , had ceased to he
apprehended. Of this idea we have been disabused.
A short time since it, was aHuounced that Mr.
Coningsbv Disraeli had b in forced to close the
gates of Hughenden because of the wanton damage

April 22, 1899.]

THE GAR BE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

251

mm

*x^Svif!v

Pig. 93. — thamnochortus insignis, female plant, (s*.e p. 242.J

a, Si>ik. let ; p., Section through spikelel . b, Bract ami female flower ; r, Slieath. Colour chcstl ut-brown,

(lone by visitors. To-day we are told that Lady
Henry Somerset is, for the same reason, about to
exclude the public from her beautiful park close to
Reigate. Vandalism has been prominent during
some years, many trees in the park suffering in oue
way or another. Very recently a large clump of
Scots Firs planted near the gates has been most
wilfully destroyed, saplings being pulled up by the
roots ; in one night there were thirty victims to
this most wanton outrage.

A Floral Sword for Culloden. — A
monster floral claymore, was laid on Culloden Moor
on April 16 by Mr. THEODORE Napier, of Edin-
burgh. The handle of the "weapon" was com-
posed of Myrtle, and the blade was formed of
sphagnum-moss, with the words "What they
fought for we will work for," picked out in bold
red letters, formed of Gnaphaliums. A white
satin ribbon is attached to the handle with the
following inscription : "In honour of the brave
men who fought on Drummore Moor in support of
the rightful Sovereign of these realms — King
James VIII. —April 16, 1746, from the Scottish
members of the Legitimist Jacobite League of
Great Britain and Ireland.''

The •• Hurst & Son" Musical Society.—

The members of this .Society, which was established
at the beginning of the present year, in connection
with the well-known linn of Messrs. Hurst & Son,
gave their first concert at St. Botolpb's Schools,
Bishopsgate, <>n Thursday eveuing, 13th iust. , before
a crowded audience, when a capital programme of
vocal and instrumental music was gone through.
In the course of the evening, during an interval in
which light refreshments were served, the President
(Mr. N. SflERWoou) briefly referred to the forma-
tion of the Society, its objects aud aims, and ex-
pressed his pleasure in seeing such a large company.
Judging from the success of this first public effort,
it is safe to predict a prosperous future for the
Society.

Chrysanthemums after Easter are
scarcely likely to obtain the popular apprecia-
tion that is so liberally accorded to the flower
during its natural season. Nevertheless, a corres-
pondent has sent us yellow blooms, and a photo-
graph of a plant of the variety Wilfred Mar-hall.
It appears that the plant flowered early in January,
and those now produced are a second crop — a by
no means scanty one.

Flower and Fruit Farming.— Mr. Bui:
continues his essay on the production of flowers
aud fruits for market purposes in the Journal of
iln Royal Agricultural Society. Mr. Bear goes
over much the same ground, but with fuller detail,
than that which has been traversed by writers in our
own pages, and in those of our contemporaries, but
it is very serviceable to have the material collected
in a form handy for reference. Perhaps Mr. Bear
will reprint his essays in a separate form, which
will lie even more convenient.

Report of Observations on Injurious
INSECTS. — The publication of a general index to
the series of twenty-two anmial reports prepared
by Miss Ormerod, is announced. The index is
prepared by Mr. Robert Newsteui, and will be
very convenient for purposes of reference.

FLORAL DEVICES. — An American gardener has
represented in plants and flowers the battleship
Mai in. The model is one-sixth the actual size,
and has a length of 53 feet, and a breadth of 16.
More than 117,060 plants were used in its con-
struction. We do not know whether to be more
surprised at the labour this must have entailed or
at the violation of good taste manifested — but then,
tastes differ. The "battleship done in plants" is
represented in the Florists' Exchangi . Another
device is thus described : Palmes & Son, of
Buffalo, bedecked their window in a manner that
turned out to be a good advertisement. A 5-fect
diameter globe, skeleton framed of wire, covered

252

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 22, 1890.

with bronze Galax leaves, raised about a foot above
the floor of their window, served as a foundation j
effective in character. Directly on top of the globe
a " buffalo " made of Violets, the details and pro-
portions of which were carefully worked out, was
posed. The outlines of the western continent were
carefully planned and adjusted on a ground of
"Daffodils ; pendent from the Pacific-ocean side of
the globe, hung the now here traditional American
pan, formed of Violets and ribbon bowed.

Dr. A. ZAHLBRUCKNER has been appointed to
the provisional direction of the botanical section of
the Natural History Museum in Vienna.

" THE GALLOVIDIAN."— This is a new corner
into the world of journalism, and as such deserves
a welcome, more especially as its contents are
bright and varied, and its "get-up" good. The
Gallovidian is addressed principally to the dwellers
iu "Galfresia," a province that will not be found
in the maps, but which has beeu devised to include
the three southern counties of Dumfries, Wigton,
and Kirkcudbright. The journal is markedly pro-
vincial, by which we mean patriotic. There is a
good portrait of Sir Heruekt Maxwell, together
with a sketch of his career. The poets of the
province are appropriately represented by the Rev.
David R. Williamson, the writer of the articles
in our columns entitled, " Notes from a Scottish
Manse," with a view of the Manse of Kirkmaiden,
and its well-stocked garden The poet and the man
of science are at one in the feeling that —

"Glory everywhere
Is breathing from woodland flowers."

Aucubas. — To some of us it seems but the
other day that Fortl.ne introduced the male plant.
In consequence of which our shrubs are now covered
with berries, and in place of one variety we have
them by scores. It may be suggested to raisers
that they should endeavour to raise a variety
whicli will throw its fruit well up above the foliage.
At present it is often nearly concealed by the
foliage ; the Aucuba is one of the few plants that
ripen their fruit iu spring.

OUR BENEFACTORS. — We soe in the current
number of the Journal of tin National Horticul-
tural Society of France, a suggestion similar to
what we have often advocated in these columns,
viz., the desirability of commemorating iu some
form or another the names and achievements of our
forefathers. We have just mentioned the Aucuba.
Very few, we are convinced, know by whose agency
this very valuable shrub was introduced, and the
generation which witnessed the importations of
Fortune is fast passing away ; as lias already that
which was astonished by the profusion and interest
of Douglas' discoveries. Addressing the members
of the Paris Society, M. En. Rozi? advocates the
commemoration of the name of Charles de
l'Esoluse (Clusius), of Arras, through whom the
Potato was first introduced into France. To him
also is due the introduction of the Laurel-Cherry,
Prunus Lauro-cerasus.

Wakefield Paxton Society. -The weekly
meeting of the members of this society was held at
the Strafford Arms Hotel, on April 15, Alderman
Milnes, J.P., presiding. The subject dealt with
on this occasion was the "Daffodil: its History
(briefly), Cultivation, Seed, and Seedlings," by Mr.
W. H Garside, of Wakefield Park.

Foreign Correspondence.

GARDENERS' WAGES IN GERMANY.
In your issue of April 1, there is an article on
p. 104 referring to gardeners' wages in Germany.
This article was written by an English youth
whom I, on the recommendation of an old business
friend iu London, allowed to work iu my establish-
ment. After a very short experience, Mr. Cook
thought himself already wise enough to write this
letter ; and as it is likely to throw discredit on the
way workmen are paid here, I think it ought not

to be left without a reply on my part. The
wages which Mr. Cook states are perfectly correct.
He only omits to mention that 10s. are the wages
of lads of 16 to IS, and 15s. are the wages of grown
men after they have been here a few years. Thf se
who show special ability get up to 18s. or 20s.,
and unusually gifted men much higher. One of
my best foremen, a peasant's son, came here as a
boy at 3s. or 4s. a week, and gets now a salary of
A' 150 a year ; two others get £135, and one £175.
These wages are about the same, only somewhat
better, than those paid in Belgium. In that
country the boys of 14 years of age begin with 2s.
a week. Here they begin with 4s. 6'/. a week,
and they get not one advance, as Mr. Cook says,
but two yearly of 9d. a week. All the workmen
are, of course, in the sick fund, and the firm pays
half of their weekly contributions. There is,
besides, a private fund at their disposal in special
cases of emergency, and they receive besides a
small Christmas preseut annually. The scale of
remuneration is higher than it was ten years ago,
but living has got dearer all round. It is lower
than the wages of artisans (masons, joiners, lock-
smiths, &c.), who in this city get between 20s. and
28s. ; but these have all gone through a term of
apprenticeship, and have to provide their own
tools, and are, especially the masons, dismissed when
there is no work for them in winter. They live
also in the town, whereas nine-tenths of my workmen
live in the villages round Erfurt, where food, lodgings,
taxes, &c. , are considerably lower. I have a staff
of about 200 people perfectly satisfied with their
condition. Those who are not so, and leave, are
easily replaced. The improvers, of whom Mr.
Cook speaks, get indeed 45s. monthly to begin
with. They generally stay iu the Erfurt nur-
series, like Mr. Cook himself, six to twelve months,
in order to get an idea of the method of seed-
culture, and theu they mostly leave. They arc only
too glad to get situations here, where they have
so much opportunity to learn and gain experience.

What Mr. Cook further says about England not
being able to compete with (iermauy in seed grow-
ing is such nonsense, that it needs no reply.
Eugland, on the contrary, is in many articles our
chief competitor, and of a good many seeds we get
our supplies from that country exclusively. Ernst
Binary, Erfurt.

Home Correspondence.

WINTER SALADS (see p. 236).— I have read with
interest Mr. Wythes' note concerning winter salads.
Everyone knows with what ease Chicory and Dan-
delion may be grown and blanched, but an unbroken
supply of tender Lettuces throughout the winter
mouths is quite another matter, and it requires
a great deal of skill to obtain even a fairly good
supply. Much may be done by sowing seed at in-
tervals throughout August and September, planting
the seedlings well in the open, lifting when about
to form hearts, and then transplanting them to cold
frames or Peach-houses, doing the work when the
leaves are dry. A good stock preserved iu this
way will afford salads for several weeks, the
plants on all favoured occasions having abundant
ventilation. A goodly number of the same-sized
plants may be taken up, and placed in 8 and 10-
inch pots, potting from four to seven plants in
each, and close to the sides of the pots,
with the lower leaves resting on the rims.
In this way the leaves are not so liable
to rot as when planted on the level. I
have also tried them in heated pits, but no
matter how careful I was with regard to forcing,
airing, &c, I always failed iu obtaining hearts of
the Cos varieties. The early hearting Cabbage
varieties, as All-the-year-round, and Hardy Ham-
mersmith, are the best for this kind of over-winter-
ing. I have had fairly good Lettuces very early iu
the season of the Black-seeded (Brown Cos) when
planted close to the brickwork of a forcing-house
on the south side. The heat from the house
warming the earth and forcing the plants to grow,
aud from these plantings I was always able to cut
Lettuces several weeks before those growing in the
open border. It is, however, not practicable in

this country to obtain good hearted Lettuces in the
months of February and March with our present
varieties. We want a Lettuce which may be forced
without spoiling it, and which is not liable to go off
with damp or lack of sunlight. Would not electric
light, and heated large houses, help us 1 [Certainly
the Americans are in advance of us in this par-
ticular. En.] //. Marl-ham.

■ The August aud September sowings would

keep us going with "hearty" Cos and Cabbage
Lettuces till the end of January, then the
pinch would be felt. But as we English are not
ravenous in regard to "green meat" in the dead of
winter, aud can mauage to exist on ordinary meat-
foods and seasonable vegetables not a few, for the
period of February to April, should not the gar-
dener be relieved of the useless attempt to grow
Lettuces at that season ? He has enough, as it is,
piled upon his broad shoulders, but there is always
someone proposing an increase to his burdens.
Those who know only the needs of au ordiuary
establishment forty years ago, would be astonished
at the increase of the gardener's duties, and at the
same time the very noticeable reduction of garden
labour at the present day. Even Lettuces could
not be cultivated without expense in labour and
fuel. Are they worth it? — that is the question.
The gardeners of the south of France are willing to
do all this for us, even as they now grow our early
vegetables of all kinds, and the produce beats any-
thing wo can show at that season. I say, therefore,
let them furnish the supply of Lettuce, for it is but
a bagatelle ; moreover, every increase of trade, in
whatsover direction, is a guarauty of peace between
us aud them. Out l>ono.

APPLE BARNACK BEAUTY. —I have read iu your
issue of the 15th iust. of an Award of Merit being
given to the above Apple by the Royal Horticul-
tural Society. As I have grown large quantities of
it for the last fifteen years, a few particulars
respecting the variety may be of interest to many
of your readers. The tree is very hardy aud free
from canker, growth upright, and great cropper.
The fruit-spurs in young tries extend from the
base for the whole length of the branches (excepting
of course the one-year wood), and if grown on the
Paradise stock the fruit is of high colour, aud much
larger than those from the Crab. When Apples
are scarce iu April and May, this variety is not to
be despised as a dessert fruit, for it is very hand-
some, and does not shrink if well harvested. This
excellent Apple was brought into commerce twenty
years ago by Messrs. W. & J. Brown, uurserymeu,
at Stamford and Peterborough, who grow and sell
a large number of the trees every year. The parent
tree, a seedliug, is still iu a healthy couditiou iu
the garden of Mr. Charles, who resides in the
village of Barnack, four miles from Stamford.
Apparently it is from fifty to sixty years old. A
few days ago Mr. Charles showed me the tree, aud
amongst other interesting information he told me
that when late Apples were scarce one season, the
Marquis of Exeter's late head gardener, Mr.
Gilbert, bought 17 stone, the produce of this tree,
for which he paid 7s. 6rf. per stono. A. Hagger,
:!_ Scotgate, Stamford, Lincolnshire.

PRIMULA SINENSIS CAUSING IRRITATION. —
As your correspondent, E. Bonavia, M.D., seems
to doubt the case mentioned by me in the Gardi ners'
Chronicle for April 1, I can assure him without a
doubt that P. sinensis was responsible for the case
iu question. Four years ago my friend grew P.
obcouica, and on the leaves coming in contact with
his hands he felt a sharp irritation, and a rash came
out which went up his arms beyond the wrist.
This kept on for several days ; he tried ointments
and other things, but to no avail. So last year be
discarded P. obcouica, and tried P. sinensis, and
yet this species affected him in the same way ; or, as
he puts it, as badly as ever, if not worse, the irritation
and rash extending to the elbow. Every time he
touched the plant, the same thing occurred ; and
as further proof, one day a leaf accidentally touched
his neck, aud the irritation and rash appeared
there. He also says that neither weather nor
winds, no matter how severe they may be,
ever affect his skin in any way. In Amateur
Gardening for November 20, 1807. p. 327, you will
liud a writer there gives his experience of the two
species of Primulas. He says that he has found
several times during the last leu years that P.
sinensis does cause irritation ou the back of the
bauds aud liugers when the plants are handled, and
that the irritation is very great for two or three
days: but, he adds, it is alleviated by using the

April ■_>•_>, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

•:■).>

followiug lotion, and then gives the recipe for
same. Knowing my friend personally for many
years as an amateur gardener, I have every confi-
dence that what he states is a fact. The recipe I
mention is made up of the following : K. Pulv.
zinci oxidi 3 ix. , acid carbolic, gr. xxv. , glycerine
3 iv., aquam rosaj q. s. To be used frequently.
This is a palliative. J. R. Wilson, The Gardens,
Haselbeck Hall, Northants.

Mr. J. Mayne, in Gardeners' Chronicle, at

p. 236, adds one more to the diverse opinions
expressed from time to time of the effects produced
by the leaves of Primula obconica on the skin. In
my own ease I dare not remove a leaf without
wearing gloves, but all of the men in the gardens
here are able to handle the plant without ill-effects

Since the advent of Tender-and-True, Messrs. Sutton
have obtained some distinct varieties. Though
some of these are stronger in their climbing habit
than is Tender-and-True, the pods do not resemble
in the least thoso of the Runner Bean, and they
crop enormously. These climbing French Beans do
well in most soils, their chief requirement being
plenty of moisture. So good were these last season
(which was anything but a propitious one), that I
think it useless to continue to cultivate the older
Runners. The pods of the former are most shapely,
and when gathered in a young state are of the finest
quality, and are more readily prepared for use.
Now, as to the little space they require. Most of
the varieties succeed if given half the space between
the rows usually afforded the Runner Beans. I
have grown them at 4 feet apart, but if room can

FlG, 04.— KKYTIIRiiNII'M JOHNSOKI: COLOTTR nF PLOWKRS LILAC ROSS.
(Awarded a First-Class Certificate af the Royal Horticultural Society's Meeting on Tuesday last.

following. My remedy for the irritation is to dip
the hand or arm in water as hot as it is possible to
bear, withdrawing it and repeating the dipping till
the irritation is allayed. It would be a pity for
the lack of a remedy to see this pretty plant
discarded by the gardener. T. Low, Button Hall
Gardens, York.

THE NEWER FRENCH CLIMBING BEANS.— Under
this heading may be classed some half dozen
varieties that are earlier than the ordinary Runners,
but which produce equally large crops of good pods.
Such varieties are extremely valuable because they
require such little space in the garden, compared
with that needed by Runners. The first of this
new type has been fully tested in many gardens,
and I do not hesitate to say it will be largely grown
in future, and whether known as Veitch's Climbing
or Sutton's Tender-and-True, it is an excellent vege-
table, and superior in dry seasons to the Runner.

be allowed 6 feet is better. We stopped the plants
when they had reached a height of 4 feet, and
I have never seen such excellent results. The plants
set pods quite close to the soil, and continued
to do so from new breaks higher up the bine till cut
down by frost. Many growers dislike dwarf Beans
in the late summer months, on account of the pods
getting old and stringy so quickly, but the newer
type yield more fleshy pods, aud combine the
vigour of the Runner with the shapely pod of the
French type. Such dwarfness with equal weight
of produce is a step in the right direction. It was
not always an easy matter to obtain an ample
supply of Bean-rods, but this type of Bean can be
grown with ordinary Pea-sticks from 4 to 6 feet in
height ; or if desired, they may be stopped at even
less than the height given, if such kinds as Tender-
and-True, Suttou's Earliest-of-All, or Epicure, be
grown. The first-named variety, and the variety
that found so many admirers at the Royal Horti-

cultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick a few years
ago, is still one of the best, and has been found to
be synonymous with Veitch's Climbing, which was
sent to the Society's Gardens by Mr. H. W. Ward.
Earliest-of-All is a distinct variety of later intro-
duction, and bears remarkably early. It belongs to
the white-seeded section, and I have found the
white-seeded varieties of the Runner to be rather
earlier than the others. It has a very fleshy pod,
and is almost free from the stringyness so charac-
teristic of the Runner Bean. Earliest-of-All crops
equal to any of the varieties, and if gathered in a
young state and cooked whole it is delicious.
Epicure is late, but it is of great value for summer
cropping ; it bears in large clusters light green pods
of splendid table quality, far superior, in my opinion,
to the best Runner. Excelsior is a larger grower,
and the strongest of the uew Runner varieties, and
specially good for late summer and early autumn
supplies. This variety will grow 10 feet in height,
but we stop at 6 feet, and grown thus it will fruit
into" November in a mild season. (!. Wythes.

A BLACKBIRD'S NEST IN A PONY'S BOOT.— The

nests of birds, as we know, are often constructed
of strange materials and in strange places, and one
that I found this morning shows it : on going into
the shed in which the mowing machines and pony's
boots are kept it was discovered that a blackbird
had built her nest in one of the latter, which hang
on the wall. Having to uae the boots, I put the
nest in a small box and hung it on the same peg,
and the blackbird has laid anothei egg in it, and is
sitting quite contentedly tonight. A. E. MoMu vis,
Court Colman, Bridgend.

HARDY FLOWERING SHRUBS.— At Sion House,
and also at Gunnersbury House, the Chiuese Vulan,
or Water Lily-tree (Magnolia conspicua), is just
now very effective, having, owing to the lateness
of the season, escaped spring frosts and the recent
rude winds. At Kew just at this moment M. stel-
lata and other kinds are beautiful ; but the one
hardy shrub that now lights up the Royal gardens
like gleams of "sunshine in a shady place," is the
Chinese Fersythia suspeusa, for which we have to
thank the lloyal Horticultural Society, and the late
Robert Fortune. It is one of the shrubs that is
good in all ways, as a bush, as a group, on a wall,
or on trees or rocks, and should more often find a
place on Ivied walls than is at present the rule,
liven as a pot-plant for the cool greenhouse, it is
most useful, grown as Wistarias are at Kew, and
the Laburnum as at Highbury. Dapbne Mezereum,
both purple anil white, /mil single and double-
flowered Peaches, arc also now flowering at
Kew. The Amaryllis, or Hippeastrums, and
Japan Tree Peonies are now very showy at
Kew in the No. 4 greenhouse, where there are also
one or two very large and well-grown groups of
I 'ineraria ciuenta varieties, as free in habit and as
graceful as are the best of the autumnal Michael-
mas Daisies or Asters. In the conservatory at
Highbury, Birmingham, the other day I saw a very
well-grown and handsome group of double German
Wallflowers in pots, and varieties of Schizanthus
pinnatus were also very effective there. Coming by
rail through Berkshire and Herts the other day,
the Plum-orchards were white with suowy-petalled
flowers ; and the same is true of the orchards and
market-gardens that lie between the church spire
at Turuham Green and the classical water-tower of
Brentford. Now that our little "Black Thorn
Winter'' is over, I hope we may have a flowery
and a fertile spring. F. W.Burbidge.

SOCi ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

April 18.— Those who frequent the meetings of Die Royal
Horticultural Society at Hie Drill Hut), Westminster, have
come to regard as a red-letter day the particular date each year
when the National Auricula Society hold their exhibition in
conjunction with the ordinary fortnightly meeting. Bi
afterallowingfor this, the meetingon Tuesday last was a record
one. Never do we rememhei to have seen Hie Hall so inc< n ■
veniently crowded with exhibits and visitors. There was
quite insufficient space to sta^e tho exhibits properly (though
a word of praise is due to Mr. Wiuoir for having done this
to the best degree possible), and the pathways were so
thronged that visitors themselves had great difficult in
inspecting the plants. As to the representatives of the

254

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[April 32, 1899.

Tress, tlieir efforts were made under difficulties that they
would regret to see become permanent. But there was
noticeable that enthusiasm that seems peculiar to large
gatherings, and notwithstanding the inconvenience, and the
fact that the afternoon lecture had to be postponed on
account of the crush, the day was, no doubt, a very enjoy-
able and interesting one to most of the exhibitors. The
Auric dl a Exhibition-, which was better than had been
expected, is fully reported below.

The Orchid Committee recommended two First class Cer-
tificates and three Awards of Merit, three of the distinguished
plants being Odontoglossums, the others a Masdevallia and a
Dendrobinm. Two First-class Certificates were awarded by
the Floral Committee to a beautiful hybrid Anthurium from
Sir Trevor Lawrence, and to a pure white variety of
Anemone bland a from the Duke of Rutland's garden. The
only Award of Merit made was to Erythroninm Johnsoni, a
species figured in these columns so long ago as ISflG, from
Messrs. Wallace & Co. Among the new plants before this
committee also may be mentioned the double-flowered variety
of Arabis alpina.

The Narcissus Committee had considerable work to dis-
charge, the exhibits of Daffodils being numerous and exten-
sive. The hybrids from the garden of the Rev. Geo.
Enoleheart were much admired.

The awards recommended by the Fecit Committee were
to Pea Carter's Early Morn. Onion Ne Plus Ultra, and Tomato
Winter Beauty.

Floral Committee.
Present: W. Marshall, Es<p, in the chair; and Messrs. John
Fraser, Chas. T. Drucry, Owen Thomas, H. B. May, R. Dean,
J. II. Fitt, Geo. Nicholson, W. Howe, John Jennings, R. B.
Lowe, Thomas Peed, R. Wilson Ker, Geo, Paul, W. Bain,
J. D. Pawle, C. R. Fielder, Herbert J. Cutbush, J. W. Barr,
E. T. Cook, E. Beckett, T. W. Sanders, D. B. Crane, E. H.
Jenkins, C. Blick, H. Selfe" Leonard, H. J. Jones, Harry
Turner, and Ed. Mawley.

CINERARIAS.

Messrs. J. Ca rter & Co., High Holborn, London, showed
Cinerarias in a group upon the floor. As a collection of the
ordinary florists' type, it represented a strain of very consider-
able merit, producing large and brilliantly-coloured flowers
ofgreal variety of. tint. Another group from the same firm
was composed of double-flowered Cinerarias, and the plants,
in this case, showed excellent cultivation, being of good habit,
and bearing a goodly number, each of line flowers in distinct
colours (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Sutton & gONS, Reading, showed a group of plants
of the hybrid Cinerarias, now named "Stellata" strain, or
"Star Cineraria." This collection represented considerable
advance since last season, when the firm made a similar dis-
play. They have obtained a more even type. Individually
the little flowers are perfect, and in their way the plants have
as good habit as those of the florist's varieties. A greater
variety in colour is evident; indeed, in this respect they
appear to be equal to their more showy relatives. From the
florist's point of view, however, they arc and must remain
"weeds," although the decorator will not fail to appreciate such
weeds. The flowers are exceedingly numerous, nncrowded,
and perfectly erect, and when cut they therefore display
themselves to the best possible advantage. It is probably
more due to cultivation than anything else, that the plants
shown were only from H inches to 2£ feet in height. If the
same plants had been given more root room, and fed bin-rally,
they would probably have trebled their stature, but the
exhibit showed that it is quite possible to obtain them as
dwarf as needful (Silver Flora Medal).

ROSES.

Messre. Paul & 80s, The Old Nurseries, Cheshinil,
showed some Roses in pots, including Perle d'0r,a pretty
little Polyantha variety ; Muriel Grabame, a new Tea, that has
already won much favour; also Souvenir <le S. A. Prince, a
white Tea ; Crimson Rambler, and several garden vai 1 1
Rosa.

A variegated form of R. Wichuriana was shown with long
growths; the Dawson Rose, a climbing Polyanfha variety,
with rose-coloured semi-single flowers ; various other well-
known sorts, and standards of same. A few hardy plants in
Sower were also from Messrs. Paul & Son.

Mr. W. Ri'msev, Joynings Nurseries, Waltham Cross, Herts,
made a commendable exhibit of Roses in pots, and these
were faced by something like fourteen dozen rut blooms of
popular varieties. Among the pot-plants were Magna Charta,
Beauty of Waltham, Mrs. Ramsey, Miss Hassard, Madame
Hoste, Crimson Rambler, and Heinricb Schultheiss.

Prom Lord Wantage's garden at Wantage, Mr. W. Fyfe
again made a glorious display of blooms of the Rose Fortune's
Yellow. The stems are rather weak, and win- wired, there
being from eigM to a dozen blooms arranged in each glass.
The peculiar tint of this Rose invariably attracts great
appreciation,

A very prettily tinted Tea Rose, 111 1 Sunrise, was shown

by Mr. G. W. Piper, Uckfield, who had a nice lot of dowers
and buds. The colour reminds one of Empress of Russia,
but is more intense.

HIPPEASTRUMS.

Some Hippeasl rums from Mr. David Kemp, gr. to Wilber*
korce Bryant, Esq., Stoke Park Gardens, Slough, showed
what extraordinary vigour is sometimes attained by seedlings.
The plants were from seeds sown in 1898 and the following

year, and they have never been plunged orgiven bottom-heat.
These Chelsea hybrids were indeed monsters. In one 10-in.
pot were bulbs that bore fifty flowers. The spikes commonly
bore five or six large blooms, but occasionally there were
seven and eight to an umbel. Some of the spikes were about
3 feet in length, and of wonderful strength (Silver Banksian
Medal).

TULIPS.
A large number of Tulips in pots were shown by Messrs. W.
Paul & Son, nurserymen, Waltham Cross. There were
three to four bulbs in each pot, and the display that they
made was good of its kind, and indicated what uses pot
Tulips could be put to when grouped in masses of one colour,
and contrasted with other plants as dwarf or dwarfer than
themselves. Of varieties with which amateurs are un-
familiar, may be mentioned Van Berghem, a fine rosy-crimson
bloom; Leonardo da Vinci, an orange red; La Matelas, a
fancy pink, with white margin to the petals; Spandouek, a
rose bizarre ; La Matador, a double- crimson self; Grenadier,
a red bizarre ; Colour Cardinal, a self of rich crimson ;
Moliere, an unbroken flower ; Princess Helene, a pure white
self, single, cerise; Oris de Lin, a bizarre; Thos. Moore, a
striking orange-scarlet self ; Epaminondas, deep crimson,
single ; Golden Lion, a yellow self; and Rosa Mundi, golden,
a new bizarre. The display of Tulips was separated from
other exhibits by a row of Cytisus, in variety, and forced,
double-pink Howered Thorns.

MISCELLANEOUS PLANTS.
Mr. H. B. May's group from Dyson's Road Nursery, Upper
Edmonton, was a display of spring-flowering plants, inter-
mixed with Ferns. Crimson Rambler Roses in Band 7-inch
pots were full of flower, and Hydrangea Hortensia var.
Thomas Hogg, Spinea astilboides floribunda, and a new
mauve or purple-flowered Clematis named Nellie Moser, were
good. Vitis heterophylla, a cold greenhouse species, with
delicately ornamental foliage, was conspicuous amongst the
foliage plants and choice Ferns employed to relieve this very
beautiful exhibit (Silver-gilt Flora Medal).
Camellias grown in the open air near Windsor were shown

in the shape ofcutbl sbySir FrancisT. Bakrv, Bart.,

M.P., St. Leonard's Hill, Windsor (gr.. Mr. R. Brown).
There were upwards of ion fine blooms, in several varieties
(Bronze Banksian Medal).

A group of miscellaneous plants was contributed by Messrs.
B. S. William-; & Son, Upper Holloway, London, X. In
this exhibit there were remarked many pretty Ericas, Boro-
nias ; and of Cliveias, Van Houttei and Ambrose Ver-
schaffelt ; Erica perspicua erects, and E. p. nana, -w very
pretty distinct-flowered Heaths. Acacia Druinmondi and
A '■! ts, in several vaiieties, were attraci Eve.

Messrs. W. Cotbush & Son, Highgate, London, N., demon-
strated the decorative qualities <>i a.caci.1 cordata, Ericas
erectaand Cavendishi, the pure white Heath, E. candidissima,
E. ventricosa, an 1 the large, red-flowered E. hybrida; also
Boionias heterophylla and megastigma. Som ■ plants ■ I I lie
Otaheite < Grange were exc ptionally well fruited. Altogether,
the group was an exhibition of line culture applied to the?e
Free-flowering greenhouse plants, that have uol merited the
neglect to which they are now treated (Silver Banksian
Medal).

Mi. John Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Surrey, showed a
pretty group of the hardy Azaleas, and standard plants of
Wistaria sinensis, forced Lilacs, &c.

Messrs. R. & G. Cl-tiihi:rt, Southgate, M iddlesex, showed a
beautiful collection of Indian Azaleas, in nice dwarf plants,
freely flowered, and many of them new. Roi de Hollande,
Lima, Madame Chas. Van Elkhaute, Konigin Cleo] atra,
Superba, Oswald de Kerchove, and Memoire de Louis Houtte
are all capital coloured varieties; and of pure white ones,
such as Madame J. E. Planchon, Niobe, Deutsche Perle, and
Raphael, were commendable.

Messrs. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Gardens, Colchester,
showed a numberof varieties of Ery throniums and Fritillarias.
Messrs. John Laino & Sons, Forest Hill Nursi ries, London,
S.E., were awarded a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal for a magnificent
group of miscellaneous plants. In this collection were
splendid Boronias, Eriras, Azaleas, Au thuliums, the yellow-
flowered Richardia Pentlandi, Acacia cordata, Codiaums,
Cordylines, and choice Ferns. It was a tasteful arrangement
of very choice plants.

Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Roupell Park Nurseries, Norwood
Road, S.E., staged a group of miscellaneous plants, in which
were tuberous-rooted Begonias just commencing to flower,
Caladiums, well-fruited Orange trees, I, ilium candidum, and
other species of decorative plants.

Myosotidium nobile, the gigantic Forget-me-not-like
Boraginaceous plant from the Chatham islands, and figured
in the Botaii ire! Magazi ne, 5137, and in the Gardeners' ( 'hronicle,
May 1, l^i'7, p. 293, was shown by Mr.-. E. PoWYS ROGERS,
Burneoose, Perranwell, R.S.O., Cornwall. The flowers are
white, with blue centres, aboul half an inch across, produced
in large racemes.

Lotus Bertholeti in flower came from Major Thurlow's
garden at Buckhain Hill Bouse, Uckfield (gr., Mr. Davis).

A much variegated variety of the hardy Deutzia, D. crenata,
came from Mr. E. Beckett, gr. to Lord Aldenb \m, Elstree.

Mr. W. Caram showed, from the gardens o\' the Duchess "i
Cu;\ bland, Battle Abbey, a pale coloured variety of Bougain-
villea speciosa.

II. J. Elwes, Esq., ColL-sbourne, contributed some pretty
varieties of the Fritillary, Crown Imperial, including the
maxima variety Museari, &c.

Messrs. Jas. Vki p m ,y Sons, Royal Em die Nursery,
Chelsea, showed plants of the new double-flowered Arabis
alpina, a variety that will be much prized. Also blooms of a

tinted variety of Magnolia stellata named rosea; and a
variety of Philadelphia Lemoinei, known as Manteau de
Hervftne,

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, exhibited a plant in
flower of Dlanthera illustris, an Acanthacenus plant, super*
lieially resembling a Jacobinia, the bracts of the plant shown
being dull red, and the flowers puqile.

AWARDS.

Anthurium X Perjfecfion.— Another of the beautiful hybrid
Anthnriums raised by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford,
Hoiking (gr., Mr. Bain). Perfection is of the type of A.
Andreanum, and has a coral-scarlet spathe, about 7 inches by
"i inches. The white spadix is about 4 inches long (First*
ehss Certificate). Sir T. Lawrence exhibited other very
handsome hybrids.

Aii',.i-Hir blanda, var. cypriana.—A. pure white variety of
the type, the petals bearing blue only on the outer side(First-
rluss Certificate), from Mr. W. H. Divers, gr. to the Duke of
Rutland, Belvoir Castle, Grantham..

Erytkronium Johnsoni. — A lilac-rose-coloured species, with
yellow ring at the interior base, from the Coast Ranges of
Southern Oregon. The flowers, which are borne upon scapes
occasionally 10 inches in length, are about 2 inches across,
and the segments widely expanded. The plant has two leaves,
5 to *'. inches long by U inch wide, and much mottled. Afine
illustration of this beautiful Erythroninm was given in these
columns, May 2, 1896, p. 541', (which is here reproduced),
together with the origiual description published by Dr.
Bolander in Erythea, vol. iii., August, 1895, p. 127.

Narcissus Committee.

}::, -i nt : Messrs. J. T. Bennett-Poe, Chairman ; C. R.
Scrase-Dickins, Secretary ; A. Kingsmill, J. Walker, W.
Goldring, J. Pope, J. II. de Graall, P. R. Barr, Hon. John
Boicaweu, R. Sydenham, J. Titheradge, Rev. G. H. Engle-
heavt. Rev. S. E. Bourne, T. Marsh, and Miss Willmotf.

Both Daffodils and those specially interested in their cnl-
i in, were present mi tins occasion in unusual force, the
flowers, after long hanging tire, have come in with a rush.
Several large banks of cut bloom formed a feature of the
day's exhibition, and a long session was provided for the
committee by the number of new varieties submitted.

\ .ii . ■■ bicoloi trumpet from Messrs. Barr, named Duke of
Bedford, received an Award of Merit; though lacking the
refined colour and form of Weardale Perfection, it is a strik-
ingly liandsome flower. The same award was given to Sunset,
from Messrs. Barr, an apparent hybrid between Tazettaand
Jonquilla ; it has a clustered scape, orange cup, and yellow
divisions. Messrs. .!. Pope & Sons, King's Norton, gained
an Awaid ol Merit lor Pope's King, a large and solid Ajax
in flit way oi < iolden Spur.

The Rev. G. II. Enoleheart received a First-class Certi-
ficate for Edmonds' White, a large flower, which must be
Classed with N. Leedsii. It has a white perianth, and widely-

r. panded and fi inged cup of pale lemon, very beautiful. The

following flowers from the sa ixhibibor obtained Awards

of Merit :— Flambeau, an incomparabilis of good size, with
yellow segments, and brillianl orange crown, the colour liner
than in Gloria Mundi. The plant is said to lie exceptionally

vigorous and 1 Brigadier may be described as a bicoloi

Sir Watkin, a flower Of the largest size, with broad white divi-
sions, and large crown of deep yellow. Cassandra, one of
Mr. Engleheart's well-known strain of seedling Poeticus, the
flower noticeable for its ampli ude of broad white petal and
deep e rim son eye. SI rongbow, a Nelsoni-like form, with
broad divisions, verj stout, ami well imbricated, the crown
expanded, deep yellow tint, and of great substance.

A large- group of Mr. Enoi-BHEART's seedlings seei I to

draw a constant throng of visitors throughout the day.
r tides the varieties mentioned, it contained many selected
forms, representative of the advance he has made in colour,
form, and size, beyond the older Narcissi. The depth ami
Vividness of the red in many seedlings, was a remarkable
feature; I lie stand also contained many beautiful pale flowers
of the Leedsii class, and several large gatherings of the new
Poeticus.

Messrs. Barr had, as usual, a grand collection of all
Narcissi in flower at the date, the trumpets Weardale Per-
fection, Duke of Bedford, and Madame de Graalt, were
especially fine. (Silver-gilt Flora).

Messrs. Pearson, of Chilwell, showed a large group, note-
worthy not only for the splendid size and finish of the flowers,
but also lor the taste and skill displayed in their staging, a
point in which they always excel.

Messrs. Bath, of Wisbech, exhibited a large bank of
Narcissi in almost countless variety, and beautifully fresh.

J. T. Bennett-PoM, Esq., won Messrs. Ilarr's Silver Cup
with a choice collection in exquisite condition.

.1. W. .Tonus, Esq., Invennore, Woking, had a line display

in considerable variety, lie was 2nd in the Cup Competition.
Orchid Committee.

Present; Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the chair; and Messrs,
S. Courtauld, J. Colman, E. Ashworth, W. H. White, II. T.
J'itt, E. Hill, J. Jaques, F. Sander, T. W. Bond, w. II.
Young, A. Outram, H. Little, ,1. Gabriel, II. J. Chapman. H.
Ballantine. De B. Crawshay, J. G. Fowler, T. B. Haywood,
and Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec).

The hall was so full of cut flowers and plants, among which
the Orchids formed an important feature, that most of the
exhibitors who entered items which they desired to go before
the committee bad to be placed on the committee tables.

April *2, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE,

255

Odontoglossuma formed the main feature. Fashion for some
years past has constituted rare varieties and richly-spotted
forms amongst the most valuable of Orchids.

Baron Sir II. Schroder, The Dell, Staines (gr., Mr. H.
Ballantine), sent line examples of his grand collection in the
still unsurpassed violet-spotted Odontoglossum Pescatorej
Schrdderianum, and O. P. Veitchiaimm ; the magnificent ' >. X
Wilckeanum Queen Empress ; the remarkable brownish-
purple blotched O. crispmn Princess Christian, distinct both
in plant and dower ; a noble form of O. triumphans, &c. ; also
a line inflorescence of the singular blue-tinted Cattleya
Lawrenceana Vinckei (Silver Flora Medal).

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Bnrford (gr., Mr. W. II.
White), also had in his pretty group some very fine Odonto-
glossums, notably a grand form of O. x Ruckerianum, with
a five-branched spile- ; 0. X Andersonianum, Dorman's
variety, a splendid cream-white Mower, heavily blotched with
red-brown; an excellently-cult ivated plant of the rare O.
coronarium miniatum, With two tine spikes; a line form of
O. gloriosum ; remarkable 0. crispum, < ►. Kdwardi, two tine
spikes; and other fine varieties; and of other species the
rare scarlet ESpidendriun 8chomburgkianum, with two spikes ;
three plants or the elegant white and violet E. Endresii,
additionally remarkable in that they were the same plants
bearing the sane- Mows rs shown in February ; Masdevalb'a x
Shuttryana, Chamberlain's variety; varieties of M. Harryana ;
Cynibidium Devonianuin, with live spikes; Maxillaria
pru-stans, with nine flowers; Lodio-Cattleya x High-
buryensis, Cypripedinm x Fowlerianum, Cochlioda san-
guinea, Dendrobium Faleoneri giganteum, Miltonia cuneata,
with live spikes (Cultural Commendation, Calanthe veratri-
folia, witii seven spikes, &e (Silver Flora Medal).
A. Wabborton, Esq , Vine House, Haslingden, showed

another triumph in blotched Odontogloss crispum

Luciani, one of Hie handsomest ami most richly purple-
blot el led fui ins extant, ami which pievi i nsh r, eeiwd a Firsl

class Certificate, and was illustrated in tie Oardcvi
Clmmicle, April 24, isnr, p. 268. Tie- . reelleni culture
accorded the plant by -Mr. Warburton's Orchid-grower lias
still added to its beauties. There were also shown Dendro-
bium. x Clio, Vine-house variety; Cattleya gcbrodera and
l'. Mendeli.

Elijah AsiTwi.iiTu. Esq.jHarefield Hall, Wilmslow (gr , Mr.
Ilolbrook), showed his splendid purplish-rose blotched
i idontoglossum crispum Ashworthianum (see list- ol Awards),
the tine Cypripediuin Lawrenceanuni Hyeannm superbura,
and C. callo-uin Sanders: Ashworlhianum.

f' B. Cmw-nw, IOsrp, Knseiield, Sevenoaks (gr., Mr. S.
Cooke), again showed the noble Odontoglossum triumphans
Lionel Crawshaj . pno lously certificated and illustrated in the

Gc&d -' Chi micle, April 20, 1896, p. »89 ; ilie fine yellow

flowers are the largest ami hive lie- broadest segments of any
form of O. trinmphans, the species not having another com-
parable with this "in. The plant bore two line spikes foe

one bulb, tb ■ i with ten and the other seven flowers, of the

typical form. The exhibitor showed likewise 0. triumphans
prineeps, tine in -ti tpe, ami richly coloured.

.Messrs. .1. \ i.i mil ,\- Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Kin"'s
Road, Chelsea, staged tie flnesl group, and were awarded s
Silver-giii Flora Medal. The centre consisted of a number of
varieties or Cattleya Schroderie, with llowers varying lion
whitish to shades of peach ami rose colour, the orange lint iii
the throat varying considerably. With them were several
line forms of Cattleya Mendeli, C Schilleriana, tin bright
scarlet Epiphronitis x Veitchi, the white and rose Chysis x
Chelsoni, Cymbidium x •burneo-Lowianum, Dendrobium x
Aleippe, the new Cowslip-yellow I). . Imogen (signatuin J ,
euosmum-leucppterum 5), D. x CheJtenhameDse, D. infun-

dibulum, D. subclausum, ami other speci and hybrids ;

La-lia x Latona, L. cinnabarina, Laslio-Csttleya ■ Pallas, the

pretty white Bifreuaria Han isoniee Candida, a number of g I

Odontoglossuma, Cypripediums, Cattleya-, ,\ c.

Major Joicey, Sunningdale Park, Snnningdale (gr., Mr.
F. J. Thome), was awarded a Silver Banksian Me, tat for a
finely-cultivated group of plants of Epidendruin bicornutnm,
which Mr. Thorne has succeeded in making thrive lor several
years past. Some of the plants showed four line heads of
flowers. With them came a plant of Angrsecum sesquipedale
with nine Bowers, one 04' the spikes bearing four bio mis ; a
vigorous example of the white-flowered Dendrobium Johii
soniic, also its congener, l>. atroviolaceum, was cultivates
admirably.

.1. Bradshaw, Esq., The Grange, Southgate (gr., Mr.
Whiffen), staged a group, the back of which consisted of
specimens of Cymbidium Lowianuin, ami the front of
C. X eluirneo-Lowiannui ; ami beside these were noted good
forms of Odontoglossum crispum, O. Pcscatorei, O. :■ Ander
sonianum, O. triumphans, O. x Andrianee, l.adia x Latona,
Lycaste Skinneri, Cattleyas, .ye. (Silver Flora Medal).

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen (gr.,
Mr. W. 11. Voting), showed tie- singular Odontoglossum x
"Golden Sheen," a clear yellow hybrid, bearinga few reddish
spots, and having some resemblance to the rare ' >. Leeanum ;
varieties of O. :■- Adrianir; the handsomely-blotched (>.'
crispum '■ sir Frederick," &c.

Nokmvn (.'. Cooksox, Esq., Oakwood, Wylain (gr., Mr. Win.
Murray), again showed a line form of the charming Dehdro:

bi Cybele Oakwood var. (Findlayanum x nobile Bur-

fordiense), the present form showing remarkably the Up-like
colouring of dark purple and yellow on the lower sepals as in
1). nobile Burfordiense. The flower segments are tipped
with carmine-rose; the colour of the disc of the lip is dark
purplish-crimson.

Messrs. Hugh Low .V Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, secured
a Silver Banksian Medal for an effective group in which the
varieties of Cattleya Mendeli were well represented, alse

Odontoglossum crispum, O. triumphans, Dendrobium Fal-
eoneri giganteum, D. thyrsifiornm, Cattleya Schroderie, Ada
aurantiaea, &c.

Messrs. B. S. Williams A- Sox, Victoria and Paradise
Nurseries, Upper Holloway, staged a large group, the centre
of which consisted of eighteen well-grown and flowered
plants of varieties of Vandn tricolor, and suavis including
"The Glen variety," insiynis aiel superba— a very unusual
exhibit in recent times. Other plants were a selection of
hybrid Cypripediums, Odontoglossuma, Dendrobiums, Cym-
bidiuius, Devonianum, Phains Norman, Trichopilia lepida,
4c. (Silver Flora Medal).

W. A. Bilnev, Esq., Fir Grange, Weybridge (gr., Mr.
Whitlock), was awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a fine
group, principally of grandly j own Dendrobium nobile, D.
Wardianum, Aic.

Walter Cobb, Esq., Dulcote, Tunbridge Wells (gr., Mr. .T.
Howes), showed Cypripedinm caudatum Moensii, C. Roths-
childianum, Dulcote var., very dark in colour, and other
Orchids.

Mr. Jan. Douglas, Edenside, Great Bookham, showed a

■loop, ,n wlnei, wen- g i Cypripediuin villosum, C.

liothschildianuin, Phaius x Cooksoni, .vc.

W. A. Gillett, Esq., Fairoak Lodge, Bishopstoke, sent a
mall collection of splendid examples of cut spikes ol

Orchids, all remarkable he evident vigour of the plants

from which they were taken, especially the Odontoglossums
which comprised one very fine 0. Pescatorei, two good i '.
crispum; a very handsome O. x Coradinei, with eighteen
llowers; (i. x Andersonianum, of great beauty; o. trium-
phans, n. Halli xanthoglossum, two 0. Rossil majus; a fine
form ot Van, la sums; four good Dendrobium nobile, cut on
the ps, 'udu-bulb, one with carmine tips to the segments, spe-
cially distinct, and a nearly white form, also g I, and a One

example of Dendrobium Wardianum.

J. Gcknev Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South Wi
(gt , Mr. J Davis), showed Cattl, ■,.. ■ Cecilia (Lawrcnci u
x Trianmi), also known as (.'. i CI and C. inter-

media, " Fowl, is var."

■ I- Sparkkb, Esq., Heathside, Ewhurst (gr . Mr. D. Smith),
showed a line Cymbidium cai.aliculatum with several spikes.

G, ti. si ..mi Esq , IF -hworth, slew, ,1 i
tricolor, and Cj pi ipedium - Dauthierl variety.

H. T. I'm i, Esq., Hos-hu. si imfoi l i . Mr. Tlmr-

good), again showed his Odontogli im excel-

lens, Rosslyn variety.

Mis. PARR, Tin- I ! I footing, sent a I,,,,,, ,,l

Itemii-obiiiiu m iciophvllnm.

F. M It' en in. Esq, Gains* ugh, sent Cypripedinm X

Tautzianum lepidum.

Fran Ida Bi . i. ba h, Zurich (gr., Mi. Schlecht),

sent a 1 1 1 1 o i ■, colonred Iliat., u ipsis Luddemanniana, Lycaste
Candida Lawrenciuna, liiefersleinia gramimn, ic.

AWARDS.

-"""'"'""'" - (Shuttle

"""1" Harryana va the prettiest ol hybrid

Mnsdevalli is, an I quite distinct from tl i jinal M

Shuttryana. The well-grown planl shown had a number ot
large rosy mauve flowers with reddish tails. From Sir Trevor

Lav. kim i , Part. (First-class Cert ate).

i '■,, ■ „, ,1'-. , tin mum, illustrated in the
''""'' - Fob. 16, 1800, p. 197. — A grand variety

of the ' i. e. Baroness Schroder, ami 0. c. Franl M ereel
section, th gr, itci pot ,,r tin- (lower being bright rose
purple, relieved by slight irregular white lines ami margin.
From Ei. i. mi Ashwoutii, F- , i -i , Mi Ilolbrook).

ClaSS Ce|( III ate).

[ft"(0. Hunnewellianum

X 1 1, crispinii). -A \ery pretty ami distinct form with cream-
white Bowers, densely spotted orange-brown, and with the
pretty crimped lip of O. Hunnewellianum. From Sir Fred-
erick Wioan, Bart, (gr., Mr. W. H. Young). (Award of

Me, ,1.1

■ rai My (Wardiannm x
splendidisslmum grandiflormu).— A fine form of this varjing

hybrid, in which tl ol ing of the lip approaches tliat of

agood H. Wardianum. The inflorescence bore four flowers.
From A. Warbi RTON, Esq , Vine House, Haslingden (Award
of Merit).

"(/ glessum AnZersoiiianum obstupefacimi, — Flowers

large, cream-white, with irregular curved blotches of red-
brown. From C.J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court, Horsham
(gr., Mr. Duncan), (Award ol Merit).

MaxUlar'.a Turneri.— Flowers allied to M. luteo-alba,
white at the base or the segments, the hlailes yellow tinged.'
with red, Honeysuckle- scented. From Walter Conn, Esq
Tunbridge Wells(gr., Mr J. Howes), (Botanical Certifical • . '

that Messrs. Bunyard displayed excellent illustrations of the
interior and exterior of the famous fruit-room, where, at the
Allmgton Nurseries, Maidstone, fruits are so wonderfully well
preserved (Silver-gilt Knightian Medal).

Mr. Geo. Wythes, gr. to the Duke of Northumberland,
Syon House, Brentford, showed dishes of ripe F'igs, Pingo de
Mel and St. John, two excellent varieiies for early forcing ;
also capital bunches of Asparagus from the out-of-door beds.
A Cultural Commendation was deservedly awarded to the
latter.

Two Apples were shown for Certificates,
them on this occasion.

AWARDS.

, but failed t,, obtain

Fruit Committee.

P '•■ Philip Crowley, Esq., Chairman; and Messrs. R.

Parker, .fas. II. Veite.h, J. Cheal, W. Poupart, E, Shaw
Blaker, A. H. Pearson, W. Pope, Alex. Dein, S. Mortimer,
J. W. Farr, Geo. Woodward, C. llerrin, .1. Vv. Bates, A. F.
Ban-on, F. Q. Lane, W. .1. Empson, Geo. Wythes, H. Balder-
son, W. H. Divers, J. Willard, and Robt File.

-Messrs. Geo. Bonyard & Co., Maidstone, contributed a
collection of 100 dishes of Apples, in such condition as woutd
be commendable at the end of the year — much more so in April.
Very few of the handsome fruits showed the [east sign ot
shrivelling, ami such sorts as Blenheim Orange, Cox's I Irange
Pippin, Bind, lick's Nonpareil, and even earlier-ripening
varieties were included. Tin- New Allington Pippin was
conspicuous, the fruits of same being plump and very fresh
looking. The exhibit was the more interesting from the tut

Tomato ll'nj,, Beauty.- This is described as a seedUng from

C I'"''"', a free-setting variety in winter, and an early

fruiter. Tlie fruits are of medium size, deep colour, and very-
little ribbed, except on the lower Burfaee. A large quantitj
of fruits was shown by Mr. S. Mortimer, Swiss Nurseries,

Farnham Royal (Award of Merit).

"" v /7»s r/f,e._A large globular Onion, sou, -what

resembling Ailsa Craig, and said to lie a seedling from that
popular variety, and Record. It has proved to be abetter
keeping Onion than Ailsa Craig, and the specimens -how,, by
Mr. Dunbar, The Nurseries, Hemcl Hempstead, were sound
to a degree (Award of Merit).

' ' ' ' ' ' '/ Moni.— A first-rate early ami dwarf-
jrowing Marrow-fat Pea, grown under glass. Mr. W. .1.
Empson, gr. to Mrs. Winofield, Ampfhill House Ampthill
• >' ' well filled p,„is (Aw. ml ,,f Merit).

NATIONAL AURICULA & PRIMULA.

Acini, is. Most admirers of tin- Auricula expected this

show to be a poor one, and were ag ably surprised to find so

8 1 ' display. All that could be dune had evidentlj I n

resorted to, t , have tin- plants sufficiently advanced by a

• late, for the sea-on is a late one everywhere.

Immaturity and a certain lack ol finish were noticed in many

of tin- trusses, as I- always lie- case when they have to be

hastened unduly. The green edges wen the whole rough,

altl -1' here and there, there were exceptions; tile rcj

edges also required more time; the while edges ami , (i ,-. ol

' I form, and asamally a pip ,,,-,, ,,,,_.

perfection could i„- noted

which alwn - ,-,,, uiickly into

"OWer, surpassed ,,, ,|, w,.|,q„ t ln-ir in stately relatives

dm edged it, overs and seifs; si, 11, bright and attractive as
the alpincs are, they were lacking in numbers ami finish
Era1 "'" Primrose and Polyanthus, usually such leading
11 ,hl'' 3b ™ were not bo good as usual ; the Prim-
roses especially, for only on,- do,-,-,, plants were staged and

tnosewit ,gh flowers, rfota plantofa doubleP ,-„

!'"' '" 'lh appearance in the , ipetitive class. (i„. i,,, i

""""l them, ami the generally eld weather retarded

1 ppearance of s,„-ii bloom as the frosl i, id pared ■ but

' ™ ■< ditl I,,- 1--1 to make theexl Hon successful.

r "" collections ol twi tve varieties ,,i show Auricula cm,
peti I, He- 1st prize going to Mr. .1. I ins, Great Bool-
ham, who hal .lan.es iiaiiicilbr.I ami Firefly, green edj ;

George Rudd, D, ,1, am, ami George Lightbody, grey edges-
Venus, Acme, Lady Churchill, ami Rachel, white edges ;
Cleopatra, Teresias, and Mrs. Potts, sells. The green edgei

wel '-1' : tie He- Lightbody was in gi ,, Icharactei : though

there w,s good size of truss, Bnish was wanting. Mr. c.

Fun. in-, Bracknell, Berks, was 2nd, his trusses of 1,1 ,

generallj sin dler than those of the preceding collection, but
the quality was rather better. He had of green edges', the
Rev. F. It Horner and Mrs. Hemvood, the latter the 'best
-"":i edge in Hie show. Inning some well-expanded pip-;
grey edges, Alderman Wisbey, Richard Headley, and George
Rudd ; white edges, Rachel, Mannion, and Acme ; sell's, Mrs.
Foil-, Miss Pariictt, Mrs. Phillips, and Black Bess. Mr. W.

Smith, Ihshoj.s s, ,„,i. was 3rd.

The best six- varieties came from Mr. Phillips : of green
edgi I,,- had Mi-. Senwood and the Rev. F. D. Horner ;
grey edge, Geo. Rudd ; white edge, Acme ; sells, Mrs. Phillips'
md loach- Res-. .Mr. J. Saroeant, Cobhain, was 2nd : he had
green edges, Abbe Liszt and the Rev. F. D. Horner; grey
edge, Rachel ; white edge, Acme : ami sell's, Ruby (Simonite),
a fine deep red, and Mrs. Potts. Mr. Smith, was 3rd, showing
a promising green edge, named Shirley Hibberd.

The l„.st lour plants were staged by Mr. J. W. Euston, gr.
to Mrs. Whitbodrse, Great Gearies, Ilford, who had Mont
Blanc, grey edge, a striking flower ol good substance and
form ; white > tges, Mannion and Acme ; and self, Blackbird.
2nd, Mr. A. R. Brown, Edgbaston, Birmingham, who had grey
edge George Rudd ; white edge, Heather Bell; and self's,
Heroine and Mrs. Potts. Mr. .1. T. Bennett-Pok was 3rd.
Mr. A. R. Brown had the btst two green edges, The Rev.
F. It Homer; and self, Heroine. Mr. EuSTOK came 2nd
witli the Rev. F. D. Horner, and Mrs. Potts.

In the classes for single specimens, the leading awards went
as follows :— Green edges : 1st, Mr. P. .1. Worslev, Clifton,
Bristol, withtheRev. F. D. Horner ; 2nd, Mr. J. Sargeakt,
with Abbe Liszt. Grey edges: 1st. M,. \\ . Smith, with
Rachael ; and 2nd with Geo. Rud!. While edges: 1st, Mr.
Brown, with Acme ; 2nd. Mr. Sargeamt, with Heather Bell.
Sells: 1st, Mr. H. Hic.mnei.i., with Heroine ; Slid, Mr. C.
Phillips, with Mrs. Phillips.

There were three collections of titty plants, in not le>s th, n
twenty vanities. To some outsiders it must appear that this
class is a kind of refuge for the destitute, in which any-

tiring can be put vv lin-h is rot g I enough lor the classes.

Mr. J. Dornt.As was placed 1st ; of green edges, he had the

256

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 2&, 1899.

Rev. F. D. Homer, Eolt's Green (a variety in which the
ground colour is red instead of dark), Lancashire Hero, in
its green dress, Dr. Hardy, and seedlings ; grey edges, George
Lighthody, Frank Simonite, George Rudd, and Colonel
Champneys ; white edges, Acme, Venus, Rachel, and Snow-
don Knight ; sell's, Heroine, Mrs. Potts, Phyllis, Black Bess,
ami Ruby. Mr. C. Phillips was placed 2nd, Alpine varieties
largely preponderating, and The Guildford Hardv Plants
Nuiisery Company was 3rd; the best quality appearing to be in
this collection, as compared with Mr. Phillips ; but the
latter had the largest bulk of bloom.

The Alpines, always bright and effective because of their
rich colouring, were fewer in number than usual, and not so
well finished either. Mr. C. Phillips, who is now our lead-
ing raiser of uew varieties, was 1st with his own seedlings,
having of gold centres— Myra, Aery fine ; Evelyn Phillips,
Mrs. J. T. Strange, Lady C. Walsh, Cassandra, a very novel
flower, which may be accepted as forming a new break ; Mrs.
Martin Smith and Saturn, white-centre Perfection and Mrs.
F. C. Barnett, these representing the leading varieties. The
1:1 11 in in.!' IIvrdv Plant Nursery were -Jnd. Dean Hole,
A. Maxwell, J. Gilbert, and Gannvmede, were the best.

Mr. C. Phillips also took off the 1st prize for six varieties,
having Begina, Nigra, Topsy, Cassandra, Mrs. Gorton, and
Perfection. Mr. Boston was 2nd; Rosy Morn and Colonel
Kitchener were his two best.

.Mr. A. R. Brown was 1st with four varieties, staging John
Allen. Dr. Knott, Mrs. Gorton, and Mrs. Bartholomews.
Mr. P. Purnell was 2nd.

The best specimen gold centre was Evelyn Phillips, from
Mr. 0. Phillips ; and he was 2nd with the same. Mr.
Phillips was 1st and 2nd with a white-centred variety,
having Perfection.

11 is difficult to describe a Fancy Auricula, but anything
good in itself that cannot come into the other classes will
stand for one. The best twelve came from the Gdildford
Hardv Plant Nursery Co. ; Mr. Douglas was 2nd, and
Mr. Boston 3rd. They were either named varieties or
seedlings.

Fancy Polyanthus and Primroses, usually such an extremely
attractive feature, were sparsely represented, and by no
means uptothe average. The March frosts did the plants
much harm, and the birds have everywhere seriously damaged
the flowers. Mr. Dooolas was the only exhibitor in each
class, and was awarded 1st prizes. No double Primroses were
forthcoming in the class set apart for them.

Tin- collections of species and varieties of Primula is usually
an attractive feature, but they fell short of their former
quality; we missed the fine examples Mr. Douglas used to
show so finely. Two collections of twelve plants were staged,
but a plant having been withdrawn from one of them, only
one lot competed. 11 came from Mr. P. Pornell, and con-
sisted of P. obconica, P. japonica, P. nivea, P. cashmeriana,
]'. ftoribunda, P. viscosa, P. rosea, P. Forbesii, P. verticillata
sinensis, P. denticulata alba, and two varieties of P. Sieboldi.
There were a few good pans in the unplaced collection.
Mr. Douglas was the only exhibitor of six species, having P.
verticillata sinensis, P. obconica, P. nivea, 1'. intermedia (?),
P. Ii losa, ami P. Auricula.

Miss Jekyi l, Mun.icn, Gudalming, had the best basket of
Polyanthus aid Primroses, consisting of line white and
yellow varieties ; Mr. J. T. BennETT-PoS, was 2nd. Mr. P
Purnell had the 1st prize for a collection of varieties of
Primula or Auricula in a box or basket not to exceed
12 superficial feet. The leading species were P. obconica,
P. denticulata, P. floribunda, P. marginata, varieties of P.'
Sieboldiand P. Auricula, &e. These were tastefully arranged,
showing tin- habit of each; the Guildford Hardy Plant
Nurserv Co. came 2nd, with fancy Auriculas, arranged in an
oval basket in a bed of moss.

Sruue classes were set apart for those growers who had
hoc, won a prize, but only one exhibitor put in appearance
in one class, and his exhibit left much to be desired in the
way of improvement.

Tic revived classes for gold-laced Polyanthus brought two
collections of three plants. Mr. J. Weston, Balham, an old
grower, was 1st. will, Monarch and Mrs. Brow-nhill, and a

seedling; .Air. I las came nexl with seedlings. Mr.

Weston was 1st with one plant, showing Lancashire Hero;
Mr. Douglas was 2ml with a seedling.

The premier show Auricula was Mrs. Henwood. green
edge, with seven expanded pips, shown by Mr. C. I'mi i ips ;
the premier Alpine, Myra, a brilliant golden-rjentred iflower,
from the same grower; the latter was also awarded a Ccrtifi
cate of Merit. The seedling Alpines were rather poor, com-
pared with previous years ; the best varieties are ie it yet ju

Enquiry.

Lady Hume Campbell Violet. — Can any reader
oblige with information concerning the place of
origin and parentage of this Violet :

bl'n mi.

©bituarp.

Mr. Geo. BOUGHEN, of the Nursery, Sandring-
ham, and forester to H. li.H. The Prince of Wales,
died after a short illness, ou the 16th inst., from
pneumonia, in his 66th year. A man of sterling
business habits, courteous and kind to all with
whom he came into contact, he was affectionately
respected. For over twenty years forester to the
Prince, he had seen many changes on the estate,
and his opinion was always sought both by the
Prince, ami his agent Mr. Beck, in regard to the
various alterations and improvements that were
made. Plain and unassuming in speech and
manner, and thoroughly practical in all that
appertained to his profession, deceased will be
greatly missed by a large circle of friends.

Botanical Gardens ; A'. A list of British and
colonial gardens is published in the h'cio Bulletin
each year, and in the Horticultural Directory for
the current year, published at 12, Mitre Court
Chambers, E.G. There are botanical gardens at
the capital of most European countries, with the
exception of Turkey, Bulgaria, Servia, Roumania,
&c.

CORRECTION. — In Flower Garden Calendar, issue
of Gardeners' Chronicle for April 15, "List of
Annuals," read Anagallis for Amaryllis.

Cucumber : ft S. B. We cannot trace the cause
of the malady ; the soil seeni3 suitable. Are
there any kuobs on the roots '!

Dishonest Exhibiting: Inexperience. We should
advise a rule being added to the schedule, disquali-
fying all exhibits not the bond fide growth of the
person showing. To enable the society to carry
out this rule in a satisfactory manner, au inspec-
tion of gardens should be made by a small expert
committee a few weeks previous to the show.
No honest exhibitor would object to this being
carried out.

Fountains ; (,'. K. P. It is against our rule to
recommend traders. Why not consult our
advertisement columns, or those of other journals ?
With regard to the name of the maker of those
at Holland House, a note addressed to Mr. Dixon,
the head gardener, might elicit the desired
information.

Green-fly on Plants of Maidenhair Fern :
ft G. The surest and safest meaus is the XL-
ALL vapour (Richards').

Horticultural Teaching: A. B. Apply to Mr.
Webb. Books alone will not enable you to pass
any examination. They must be used only as aids
to practical work.

INSECTS : J. li. Orthesia insiguis ; a very trouble-
some coccid in a few localities in Great Britain.
In Ceylon it is a very serious pest, and is known
by the name of the " Lautana Bug." Take
infested plants from the house, and remove
insects with a large dry camel's-hair brush.
Repeat this at intervals of eight to ten days for
a few weeks, and do not allow the insects to
attain their loug white tails (ovisacs). A weak
soap wash may be found effectual, but the
insects are hard to kill. R. N.

Mildew on Roses : W. D. Roses in some localities
seem peculiarly liable to attacks of mildew, and
cultivators living in such should take precautions
in good time. When the plants are at rest they
should lie washed with Gislmrst Compound soap,
at the rate of 3 ounces in a gallon of hot water.
During the forciug until flowers appear the
plants should be wetted with sulphide of potas-
sium at the rate of half an ounce in 1 gallou of
rain-water. If there are no permanent plants in
the forcing-house, some flowers-of-sulphur may
be sprinkled over a potful of slakiug lime before
forcing begins in the house.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — J. M. Festuca ovina,
glaucous variety. — E. C. C. I). Alchemilla
arvensis, a weed, with green flowers. — F. I). 1,
Forsythia suspensa ; 2, Muscari racemosum ; 3,
Daphne Mezereum. — A. B. We cannot under-
take to name garden varieties ; they are too
numerous. 1, a form of N. incomparabilis ; '_',
one of the Barri section, from incomparabilis ;
3, Narcissus bicolor ; a form of Pseudo-Narcis-
sus.— /. E. Akebia quinata. — R. C. jV. Iris
tuberosa. — A Header. 1, Clianthus puniceus ;
2, Gloriosa superba. — A. B. C. 1, Bifrenaria
Harrisoniaj ; 2, Lycaste macrobulbon. — .1/. 1,
Dendrobium crassinodeBarberiauum, a very good
variety ; 2, D. Pierardi ; 3, D. Wardiauum, a
fine variety; 4, D. devonianum. — A'. P. 1,

Cyrtopodium Andersoni ; 2, Bifrenaria Harris-
souia:. — W. D., Shrewsbury. 1, Dracama fra-
grans ; 2, D. amabilis ; 3, D. pulcherrima ; 4,
D. terminalis ; 5, D. reginse ; 6, D. marginata. —
R. T. 1, Richardia Pentlandi ; 2, R. Elliot-
tiaua; 3, Dendrobium nobile, a very fine large
form ; 4, D. nobile, good in colour ; 5, Crotou
interruptus. — W. II. II. 1 and 2, very pretty
forms of Dendrobium nobile. — 67. /''. T., Oak. 4,
Etiphorbia mellifera.

Odontogeossum Vuylstekeanum : Dc B. C.

Reicheubach's description is rather vague, but
he rendered the matter clear when he wrote
(see Gardeners' Chronicle, p. 7, vol. xxii., 1884):
"As for me, I well know this is no botanic
species." Orchidists generally know this fact.

Peach-leaves and Fruits Injured : J. F. It is
a case of scalding by sun-heat, together with lack
of ventilation. This might readily occur in a
lean-to house facing due south, in variable April
weather. The gardener iu charge cannot well be
too alert in affording air at this season toforciug-
houses ; moreover, the leaves being very tender,
are more readily injured now than later. There
may be defective panes of glass in the roof.

Shells in Soil : P. N. F. The bivalve shells
are those of Splnerium corueum, Linne, the
commonest one of the so-called "freshwater
cockles." I have never heard of fish swallowing
the shells, but have no doubt but that the soft
parts would prove a most acceptable morsel to
the piscine palate. IP. M. If.

Sulphide of Potassium on Vines with Fruit
Setting : Vitis. It is a ticklish stage at which
to employ the sulphide against mildew, and we
would advise you to try its effects on a few
affected bunches aud leaves first, then, if no
harm is apparent, proceed further. A suitable
strength is i oz. to 1 gallon of water. There is
no comedy for red spider better than spouging
the leaves with warm water.

Tomatos : A. B. S. Your Tomatos are attacked
by a fungus. .Syringe them with a solution of
sulphide of potassium.

Vine-leaves Diseased : On< in Ignorance The
check in growth is due to the powdery mildew,
Oidiutn Tuckeri. Dry heat and want of ventila-
tion are probably the conditions whicli havo
given rise to it. The disease should be checked
now, as it will affect the fruit. To check the
fungus, use flowers-of-sulphur dusted thinly ami
evenly over the affected plants, and sprinkle the
soil beneath. Or, it may be syringed on, mixed
with water. The disease is not difficult to
control if the air of the house be looked to and
sulphur used. If sulphur is too slow, try a weak
sulphide of potassium.

Vines Shanking, leaves this and warty :
Vine leaves. The first is due to unwholesome
soil leading to loss of the feeding roots ; to the
roots being at too great a depth from the surface or
to over cropping and wholesale instead of gradual
removal of shoots and foliage — which it is in your
case we are unable to indicate. Examine the
border aud the roots, aud be especially inquisitive
concerning the drainage if the natural soil is
retentive. The wartiness and thinness of the
leaves are conditions due to lack of ventilation
and excess of moisture, the latter being usually
the correlative of the former. The obvious
remedy is more air, even if a little more fire heat
has to be employed and less damping down.
We would advise you to employ, in damping
down, less chemical manure, soot, andcesspool-
stulf, and to rely on clean water. If the viue
roots are in a diseased state, the application of
manure - water to the border will aggravate
matters.

Communications Received.— W. K., Aberdeen.— W. Siehe,

Mersina.— C. S., Darmstadt De i!. Crawshay.— F. S._

The Director Royal Gardens, Kew. — ■ M. II.. MiiMelburgh. —
w. <; S., Dunstable.- -H. G., Hyde.— W. A- N. — H. P. M.—
C. W. D — L. C.— H. H. HO.— A. D.-.I. B. D., California.
— W. G. S., Leeds.— H. W.— Comm. Hanbury.— F. World.
—J. OB. --E. (!.— C. E. H. — W. Swan.— W. H. Y.
— H. M.- A. W. K.— J. L.-E. H. S — W. Strugnell.—

Hubert B.— A. C.—C. H.— C. R. F T. Coomber.— Royal

Institution, Great Britain.— H. W. W.— R. L. H.— D. T. F.
—P. B.—E. M. H.— W. S.— W. II. G.— W. Siehe, Mersina.—
C. W. D.— H. E., Ryde.— E. .I.--H. \\\— W. C— Seeds.

Spfxtmens and Piiotboraphs Received with Thanes. —
G. M., Canterbury.— O. E. ftfenzel, S. Australia.

(For Markets and Weather, see p. x.)

April 29, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

257

THE

$wr&mmf d^Ttrxinictc

No. CU.— SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 1899.

WHEAT AND TULIPS.*

WITH the first of these subjects we need
not here concern ourselves ; bnt the
second — the Tulip — has great interest for us,
and doubtless for many of our readers. The
learned professor could scarcely have sought a
more interesting exotic plant than the Tulip,
nor one the investigation of whose history in
Europe was more worthy of his pen. He has
evidently spared no pains in acquiring informa-
tion from ancient writings, MSS., rare I ks,

paintings, and mosaics, and he has arrayed
his facts, and marshalled his conclusions in a
masterly manner. If hypotheses have to be
advanced in order to explain the necessary
connection in the lines of advance of the Tulip
from East towards the Atlantic, they are
extremely modest, and never in any ease offend
by reason of extravagance.

Commencing with Tulip australis, Link, he
combines under it, 1, the smallest-flowered
varieties, namely T. Celsiana, D.C., a native of
Southern France, the Maritime Alps, and the
Tuscan Apennines; T. transtagana, Brotero, of
Portugal and Spain; T. fragrans, Munby, from
N. Africa ; 2, T. alpcstris, Jordan, from the Alps
of Savoy ; 3, T. Grisebachiana, rantoscek, from
the Herzegovina; 4, T. Biebersteiniana, from
Southern Russia ; 5, T. sylvestris, to which
belongs, in consequence of a basal purple patch
in the bloom, the strikingly dissimilar Grecian
T. Orphanidea, Boissier. Among these forms,
T. sylvestris is, he tells us, by far the most
widely distributed of all, being found in the
whole of Italy, France, Germany, Southern
Sweden, and England. According to Levier,
it is met with in Attica and Laconia, whilst its
allies are, when not transplanted by man, mostly
to be found in their native habitats in cultivated
land, in vineyards, fields, and parks, and in the
vicinity of such places. Only in Greece, Sicily,
and the neighbourhood of Montese in the
Bolognese Apennines are they now found in
the primeval habitats (Levier). Whether they
are indigenous to England and North Germany,
remarks the author, is doubtful, as De Candolle
in 1855, in his Plantes de Naturalisation a
petite distance, recorded with a mark of
interrogation ; but as Caruel with certainty
showed, in 1879, these Tulips, when found in
districts about which there never has been a
doubt, as in Tuscany, they form a compara-
tively recent addition to the flora. Cesalpino
(1583) knew of no other habitat for the plant,
known then under the name of "Lonchites,"
than Barga, in the Upper Serchio valley ; and
de l'Obel (1575) knew of them only in the
vicinity of Bologna, and called them Lillionar-
cissus Bononiensis luteus.

Other writers, Clusius among the number,
mention Bologna as the habitat of the Bolog-
nese Tulip, a name that was adopted by all the
writers of the seventeenth century. There

* Weizen und Tulpe and deren Geechichte, von H. Grafen zu
Solms- Laubacli, Professor Uer Botanik an tier Universitat,
Strasburg. Leipzig ; Verlag von Arthur Felix, 1S99.

exists in Florence a manuscript catalogue, most
carefully got up by Micheli at the end of the
seventeenth century, and from this appears a
single habitat of the Bologna Tulip, namely, a
spot opposite to the gate of the town ; so that
it must have been, as it is irow, a common plant
at Florence and Lucca. Our author thinks tint
the field Tulip, having become common in Italy
at that period, it was an easy matter for the
bulbs to find their way to c mntries north of the
Alps, thus throwing doubt on the indigenous-
ness of the plant in Germany, England, and
elsewhere. That good grounds exist for such
doubts is shown by the fact that in the Upper
Rhine Valley the yellow Tulip has a very irre-
gular distribution. In Baden this species grows
sparingly in a few places on the flanks of the
Black Forest, and at Heidelberg, but it is
entirely missing from the flora of Freiburg ;
whilst in Alsace it is much more abundant,
and is detested by the Vine-growers of the
Colmar district as an indestructible weed.
It is found in the Vine-covered hills of Miil-
hausen, and in Lower Alsace in many places, as
was noted by Kirschleger. In Heidelberg this
species was observed in 1782; but in Upper
Alsace, however, the first discovery was made
in 1791, according to a written notice in the
Leipzig University Library, by Mappus, which
Hermann says was mentioned by Kirschleger.
It is noted there " odorata est. In quibusdam
vincis inter Niedermorschwehr ct Ingersheim
adeo frequens est, ut Mm is tempore solum Have-
dine lacteum sit. Ut Hyacinthus botryoides
mala herba, Bartholdy und 'Miror Hallerum '
dubitare indigenam esse. Miror Mappum qui
Alsatiam superiorem frequentius adiiste videtur
non habere. Copiose crescit ad Colmariam, in
den Rebstiicken auf dein Tiirckheimer Berge
gegen dem Katzenthal, hinter Ingersheim, ubi

Unit: amicus lilii detexit. L794."

From this passage it would seem that the
species was, at that time, unknown in Lower
Alsace, whilst to day it is found in the immediate
vicinity of Strasburg. at Kolbshain plentifully,
also at Oberehnheim and Mittelbergheim. in
Nledermorschwhir it is so abundant in the
vineyards that these are yellow with the

blossoms. In the ncighl ring Switzerland,

it was at thai period scarcely known,
otherwise Haller, 1768, as quoted by Herman,
would not have saiil "non credo veram esse
civem et si passim in pratis circa urbem
reperitur. Cum tamen Linnaeus inter indigenas
enumeratnon visum est patriae hoc ornamentum
negare. In prato piano et regione urbis, iir
altem Berg." In Wurtemberg it is not ascer-
tained for certain that the species exists,
although Ulm is mentioned by Martens and
Kemmler, 18(15, as a habitat. Leopold's Flora,
of this city, 1728, does not include it.

The plant is entirely missing to-day from
Bavaria, andinJVa»ico7iia,Volkamerus, 1700, says
that "Tulipa boloniensis lutea in hortis. " In the
vicinity of Leipzig and Halle, the older authors
mention it as being only a garden plant. In
Saxony and Silesia it is not found in a state of
Nature, but only as a garden escape. In
Austria the plant rarely occurs ; Monte Mag-
giore, near Fiume, is named by Huas, 1797,
and a few other sites.

Linnaeus was made by Haller to say that he
believed T. sylvestris to be a native plant, bub
the exact opposite was the case, as he says in
the second edition of Flora Suecica, 1755, that
it was a recent garden escape. Strange to say,
Fries perpetuated Haller's new translation in
his Flora Scania, is:;:,, p. 170. The old French
Floras confuse the true Tulipa sylvestris with

T. Celsiana, a native of Southern France, and
for the purpose of the author they cannot be
taken into account. No mention is made of the :
species by Vaillant, 172:',, or by Dalibard, 1749;
and Bulliardi, much later, without comment,
terms it a wild Tulip.

In England, the species occur on chalk soil in
Norfolk and Suffolk ; and Hooker, 1870, says it
is "possibly wild." Smith also, Flora Brt-
tannica, 1st It List 14, declares it to be indigenous;
but Hudson. Flora Anglica, 1702, does not
mention it. It would therefore appear that
Tulipa sylvestris is not indigenous in Germany,
France, Sweden, and England, and that its
distribution took place in the course of
the second half of the 18th century. It is
characteristic that the spread of the plant did
not occur gradually northward, like Senecio
vernalis, or westward like Puccinia Malvacea-
rum, but rather suddenly everywhere.

This sudden appearance was simply due to the
fact, that distribution took place from nume-
rous centres, the botanical and private gardens
in tin- countries mentioned, by exchanges and
sales long before the plant became wild gene-
rally. Even in Italy T. sylvestris was certainly
much cultivated in gardens.

If this should seem remarkable to us, for the
slight fragrance of the bloom could scarcely have
been the inducement to its cultivation, we must
remember that the Tulip belonged to the
fashionable flowers of those times, and everyone
endeavoured to secure the finest and most com-
plete collection of them, from which certainly
Bononiensis lutea would scarcely be omitted.

Whilst it is easy tip trace the time and
mode of distribution of the species from
Bologna, it is not so easy to account for
its first appearance there, which must
have occurred in remote ages. That the
species is not indigenous to Bologna appears
from the writings of Mattei, in which it is
stated that the plant was found in cultivated
land, namely iir Acacia and Gleditschia woods,
and never in virgin land. In this matter he
pays no regard to the statements of others, that
it is found in the Bologna Apennines by Mon-
tese, a certainly primaeval habitat, also in the
Apuan ami higher Apennines where Tulipa
Celsiana is commonly found. Mattei believed
in the Tulipa Celsiana having descended from
the higher mountains to the lower foot-hills,
and the result of changes in the climatic condi-
tions originated the Bologna Tulip, its appear-
ance occurring about Bologna in historical
times.

This opinion of Mattei finds several sup-
porters and opponents ; among the latter K relage,
who carried out experiments in Holland with
T. Celsiana, but with negative results, seeing
that the plant had been cultivated in that
country from the time of Clusius, and remained
essentially constant, and never became like T.
sylvestris ; and the author gives a number of
reasons why that should so be.
(To &e continued.)

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

•

ORCHIDS AT GUNNERSBURY HOUSE.
Those who were fortunate enough to see the
maguiticent group of Dendrobhnn formosum gigan-
tum, staged by Mr. Jas. Hudson, gardener to
Messrs. de Rothschild, at the Royal Horticultural
Society, on October 11, 189S, greatly admired tbe
specimens, though many doubted if such success
could be maintained in tbe case of such areputedly
bad doer. Several of the plants shown had been
in Mr. Hudson's care for seven or eight years,

258

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 29, 1899.

although with these exceptions the plants were
imported two years ago. Th 3 group consisted of
thirty-four plants, bearing together about 700 large
pure white flowers with yellow discs to the
labellum, the shade of yellow varying in the
different specimens.

A recent visit to Gunnersbury House has shown
that specimens are not only sustaining their vigour,
but are increasing in size and in the number of
their young growths, which are now pushing
strongly in the warm house in which they are
suspended. Further evidence that the treatment
the plants are given is salutary may be seen in the
several young seedlings raised from the seeds
brought over on the roots of the importations, and
some of which are approaching maturity.

Many cultivators utterly fail to get this fine
nigro-hirsute Dendrobium to thrive for any length
of time, and some help may be obtained from
briefly considering Mr. Hudson's method. Of
course, with this, as with many other Orchids,
something depends on getting suitable places in
which they can grow and rest. That being secured,
Mr. Hudson holds that if the warm-growing season
and the cooler dry resting season be observed, no
difficulty should arise. But as a means of pre-
venting stagnant moisture at all seasons, he attaches
much importance to his plan of using good-sized
pieces of virgin-cork beneath and around the plants,
which with the cork, are fixed with sphagnum-moss
in the baskets in the usual way.

A general collection of Orchids is not attempted
al Gunnersbury House, only batches of showy
things ; but even the most difficult, such as Vanda
ccerulea, seem to thrive remarkably well.

The many ranges of fruit-houses are well-cropped,
especially the vineries, Strawberry-houses, and
Orchard- houses. Some of the stone fruits in pots
are thinly cropped, the fogs having destroyed the
flowers anil newly-set fruits.

The new Bamboo-garden, and the bog-garden
beside the lake, with the new coloured Water
Lilies, will soon form fine features in the pleasure-
grounds. ,/. O'B.

Vanda teres at Gunnehsbi m Park.
Those who are disposed to think that Vanda
teres is a shy-flowering species, should have
seen it at Gunnersbury Park at the end of the
third week in April. It was then grandly in
bloom at I lie west end of a lean-to stove. This
house faces south, and a line of plants in a long box
occupies the end of the house close to the glass,
which is fully exposed to the sun after 11 o'clock
in the day. A passage-way down by the end of the
central pit divides the front line of plants from one
which has its box resting on the brick side of the
pit. The two Hues of plants, one behind the other,
make up a length of from 9 to 10 feet each, and
between them they had about 160 expanded
blossoms, and wonderfully fine ones, too. It was a
glorious sight, I say was, because three days after
the flowers were all cut for sending to Newmarket.
The plants are growing in a mixture formed of
clean crocks, charcoal, and sphagnum. Mr. Reynolds
holds that the position occupied by the plants has
a most important bearing en their well-being. At
the end of May or the beginning of June, the
plants are cut clean through just above the surface,
the boxes are re-soiled, and the severed plants,
which have ample roots, planted in the fresh soil.
Moisture is reduced as the days shorten, but
augmented as spring approaches. This glorious
Bpecii cai ixcely be seen under better conditions
than at Gunnersbury Park. One or two plants
show more distinct and richer markings thau those
of the type, and will probably be known as the
Gunnersbury Park variety. Four.

i K. inn u W IRSCEfl II ZII.
This pretty Oncidium, discovered by Warsce
wicz on the Cbiriqui Mountain at 10,tl00 feet
altitude, never seems to have been imported in
quantity, though, in 1870, Messrs. Veitch & Sons
obtained from Costa Rica a few good plants.

Since then it has appeared occasionally, but never
in sufficient numbers to bring it into prominence.
It is characterised by large bracts at the base of
the flowers, which are about \\ inch in width, and
of an uniform bright yellow colour, the blade of
the lip extended on a long claw or isthmus. The
species is also known as O. bifrons. A fine inflor-
escence has come to hand from the collection of
Mrs. Ida Brandt, Riesbach, Zurich.

Maxillaria Turneri.
This pretty and fragrant Orchid appeared many
years ago in the then famed collection of Mr.
Turner, and for many years the only plants of it in
gardens were pieces taken from the origiual plant,
even if the whole of the stock now in cultivation is
not so. It affords a proof that Orchids need not
degenerate under cultivation. A fine plant is now
in flower with Walter Cobb, Esq., Dulcote, Tun-
bridge Wells (gr., Mr. J. Howes). Each leading

Dendrobium x Cybele, Oakwood Variety.

The original form of this graceful cross between
D. nobile and D. Wardianum was raised some years
ago by Messrs. J. Veitch & .Sons. The present
variety (fig. 90, p. '259), was raised by Norman C.
Oookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam, Northumberland
(gr., Mr. William Murray), the form of D. nobile
used being D. nobile Burfordiense, which, it will
be remembered, gave a case of trilabellia, as in 1).
n. Cooksoni, except that the labelloid markings iu
imitation of the lip appears in the lateral sepals
instead of in the petals, as in D. n. Cooksoni, and
iu most other cases of irregular peloria in Orchids.
The batch raised by Mr. Cookson displayed great
variety, but the plants were tolerably constant in
the markings on the lower sepals, although they
differed in tint. The flowers of this charming
hybrid are white, tinged and tipped with bright)
rose colour ; the disc is purplish-crimson on an
orange-coloured ground.

Fie. 95. — ODONTOGLOS8T7M ADRIAN.* "LADY WIGAN."

growth produces a number of flowers. These have
narrow segments, the bases of which are white, the
upper portions yellow tinged with reddish-brown,
especially on the reverse side, and exhaling a
pleasant odour of the Honeysuckle. Some regard
it as a variety of M. luteo-alba, but both the plant
by its brownish tint, aud the plant and flowers,
have other characters which render it distinct from
that species.

Odontoglossum Adrian.* "Lady Wigan."
A few years ago there appeared in an importation
made by Messrs. Linden, of Brussels, a series of
very pretty Odontoglossums, which had the form
of O. Hunnewellianum to a great degree, and the
new arrivals were supposed to be the result of a
natural cross between O. Hunnewellianum and O.
crispum, and forms of them were figured iu the
Lindenia under the name of O. Adriana-. Later,
several forms of it appeared with cultivators in
England, one of the prettiest being the variety
named above and here illustrated (tig. 95), shown
by Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East
Sheen (gr., Mr. W. H. Young), at the meeting of
the Royal Horticultural Society, on April 18, when
the Orchid Committee gave it an Award of Merit.
The neatly shaped flowers were cream-white spotted
with brown, the crest being bright yellow.

ihe Bulb Garden.

HYMENOCALLIS.
The species of Hymenocallis proper (excluding
Isincnc) possess white fragrant flowers, which are
sessile, or nearly so, aud have green filaments aud
styles. The species are so much alike that the
nomenclature of these plants is in a confused state
in many gardens. All require, with perhaps one
exception, stove treatment, and copious supplies of
water when growing. H. tubiflora aud H. littoralis,
the latter a warm greenhouse plant, grow best
with the pots partially submerged. They must be
Bhaded from strong sunshine when growing, and
are benefited by syringing on bright days. Manure-
water, preferably from cow-houses, will help them
considerably ; soot and lime-water sprinkled on the
pathways will intensify the rich green of the leaves.
They enjoy a fairly ample root-run of saudy loam,
mixed with one quarter of its bulk of well-rotted
leaf-mould ; stronger growing plants, such as H.
speciosa, H. littoralis, and H. caribrea, may have
an addition in dried cow-manure broken into small
nodules. When growth is completed, it is advis-
able to rest them in a pit or house having a tem-
perature of 55° to 00°, decreasing the amount of
water at the same time. As they are not deciduous

April 29, 1899.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

259

unless rendered so, they must not be allowed
to become quite dry, or the leaves will suffer.
Over-dried bulbs take some time starting into
growth again, and in this state they are suscep-
tible to the attacks of the bulb-mite.

One of the most distinct is H. tubiflora, with thin
ovate lanceolate leaves a foot or more long, 5 inches
broad at the middle, with a short petiole. The
peduncle is short and slender, and bears an umbel
of ten or more erect flowers, with long slender
tubes and drooping linear segments 4 inches long,
and a small, not toothed, occasionally plicate
stamina! cup. This species is now becoming
common in cultivation, owing to the demand for
its long tubular flowers iu a cut state.

H. caribica. — This plant is mostly confused
with H. speciosa, which it much resembles. It
differs in having leaves upwards of 2 feet long,
3 inches broad, thin in substance, and the flowers
more closely arranged on the top of the peduncle,
and furnished with shorter tubes. Its variety
patens has a long slender peduncle, with longer
and thinner flowers.

//. expansa has narrower and longer leaves and
flowers than in H. caribaa, otherwise there is no
apparent difference.

//. Moritziana produces leaves with the blade
1 foot long, G inches wide, with a long stout
petiole, much resembling those "I Kueharis grandi-
flora. The flowers, produced in early spring, are

Pig. 9C— dendrobium ctbele. (see p. '258.)

II. undulata. — This species has leaves similar in
shape to those of H. tubiflora, but with a longer
and more slender petiole. The peduncle is stout,
1 foot or more high, with an umbel of eight or more
lowers, each 6 inches long and wide, with a slightly
curved tube, narrow segments, a toothed staminal
cup, and red-tinted filaments. This species is largely
grown on the Continent under the name of Pan-
cratium undulatum. It is a native of Venezuela.

//. speciosa. — This is a plant which varies a
I good deal iu the shape of the leaves, as in H.
BMibsea, H. Moritziana, and H. ovata to H. eucha-
ridifolia. The learesof the type are tough, usually
twelve in number, each Ih to 2 feet long, C inches
broad, with a short winged petiole. The flowers
range iu cultivated forms from 6 to 12 inches in
diameter and length, and consist of a stout tube,
segments up tobalf-an-iuch in width, and a toothed
staminal cup 1 to 2 inches across. They usually
appear in the autumn.

thinner and more lax than in if. speciosa, other-
wise there is no difference in cultivated specimens.

II. eucharidifolia. — This is a compact plant, with
1. a\ es S or more inches long and broad, with a very
short-winged petiole, the leaves being alternately
arranged around a thickened stem composed of the
sheathing petioles. The peduncle is a foot in
length, bearing a dozen flowers, which do not
materially differ from those of H. speciosa, or H.
Moritziana. It is a free-flowering plant, taking
up but little room ; the flowers it produces are
quite as good as those of more bulky species. It
comes from Venezuela.

H. ovata. — This species resembles H. speciosa
under cultivation, differing only iu having smaller,
almost sessile, ovate leaves a foot long, shorter
flowers and peduncle. A plant I have, under the
name of H. filamentosa, is either a form of this
species or H. speciosa ; it is distinct only in the
unusual length of the filaments. The flowers of

typical H. ovata are very lax and poor, but, under
high cultivation, the flowers and leafage greatly
improve.

H. littoralis. — This species may be accepted as
the type to which H. disticha, H. tenuiflora, and
H. senegambica, are allied. It is extremely vari-
able in leaf and flower. The leaves of the type are
2J- feet long, strap-shaped, or narrowly lanceolate,
sessile, up to 2 inches wide, glabrous-green in colour,
and tough iu texture. The flowers average ten to
au umbel, and consists of a tube half-afoot long,
ending in recurved, and occasionally twisted seg-
ments, 4 inches long, aduate to the base of the
staminal cup. This cup is an ineh in length and
width, toothed, and occasionally plicate when the
flower first opens. It may be grown successfully
i n a warm greenhouse, but should not be over-fed
with manure, or the flowers will come with fasciated
filaments and distorted perianth-tube. H. tenuiflora
is a species from New Granada with slimmer
flowers, otherwise resembling H. littoralis, or some
of its many forms.

//. senegambica. — A species from West Africa,
which, though geographically removed from H.
littoralis, a New World species, differs only in
having a wider staminal cup, which becomes almost
rotate as the flower ages. It requires stove-house
temperature to do it well.

H. Harrhiana is a plant of small growth, with
leaves 1 foot long, a short slender peduncle, bear-
ing three flowers with slender tubes and narrow
segments, the staminal cup being small, and
curiously plicate. It is a native of Mexico, and a
comparatively recent introduction into gardens,
though known as far back as 1838.

H. lacera has narrow, sword-shaped leases,
similar to those of H. littoralis ; the flowers are
much shorter than in that species, with a spreading,
almost rotate staminal cup. It is a native of the
Southern States, and may be grown successfully in
the warm greenhouse. Poor forms of this species
are hardly worth cultivating, when so many richer-
flowered species are available.

H. macrostephana. — This plant is considered to
be a hybrid between H. speciosa and H. (Ismeue)
ealathina. The leaves are 3 feet long, 3 inches
broad at the middle, sessile, with a sheathing base.
The flowers are produced in an umbel of eight, and
consist of a short tube of a greenish-white colour,
white segments, 3 inches long, half an inch wide,
and a wide funnel-shaped, partially-dilated staminal
cup, the free ends of the filaments being incurved —
a characteristic of Ismene. It requires the same
treatment as given to H. speciosa. G. B. M.

SPONTANEOUS HYBEIDS OF
HARDY PLANTS.

(Coitiinued from p. 210.)

Campanulas. — No spontaneous hybrids of Cam-
panula have ever shown themselves in Edge garden,
except in what I call the C. rotundifolia section,
including C. rhomboidalis. These seem to cross
freely together, and it is easy in my garden to pick
out a series in which all the so-called species would
seem to be concurrent. C. rotundifolia itself, as a
native species, is so remarkably variable iu stature,
in shape and size of flower, iu breadth and form
of leaf, and these distinct varieties so often prevail
in well marked areas, that botanists are tempted
to make several native species; butGodron remarks
in his Flora of Franct that the whole section is
such a little chaos, that he acquiesces in the con-
clusions of his predecessors, though hardly any
two of them formed the same conclusions ! How-
ever, all these crosses are unfortunately fertile,
though with anything approaching to isolation
parents reproduce themselves with constancy, as
they do in many other varieties of species amongst
hardy plants.

There are five or six well-established hybrids of
Campanula known in gardens, C. Van Houttei
(including its pale form, C. Burghalti), C. Hen-
dersoni, 0. haylodgensis, and two or three forms

260

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 20, 1899.

known as G. F. Wilson. In Index Kewensis, the
first three are printed as species of unknown
habitat, notwithstanding the prevalent opinion
that C. Van Houttei and C. Hendersoni are
hybrids raised, either artificially or by accident, by
the nurserymen whose names they bear. C. Hen
dersoni is almost certainly C. carpatica x C. pyra-
midalis ; C. haylodgensis and the G. F. Wilson s
are known to have been raised by artificial crossing
about thirty years ago by the late Mr. Andersou
Henry, of Hay Lodge, in Mid Lothian. The former
was said to be C. carpatica x C. pusilla, and the
others, C. carpatica x C. pulla. Indeed, their
pendulous flowers suggest C. pulla, and there has
lately been distributed from Mr. Archer Hind's
garden in Devonshire, a similar spontaneous hybrid
known to be a seedling of C. pulla. Having grown
these hybrids for many years, and having, year
after year, looked for seed on them in vain, I have
come to the conclusion that they are all barren,
though more than once in seed catalogues of botanic
gardens I have seen seed of G Van Houttei offered,
but I have never been able to get it, and should be
glad to know if anyone has ever raised it.

Before leaving Campanula, I mention an obscure
and mysterious form, C. plauifiora (Lam.) syn. C.
nitida ( Aiton). It is wrongly referred in the Index
Kewensis to C. pyramidalis, with which it has
nothing in common. As Gray rightly classes it
under C. persicifolia, but says it has never been
found wild anywhere, much less near Hudson's
Bay, as former botanists asserted. Though there
is a double form, I have never heard of seed of it ;
it may possibly be a hybrid, but I believe it to be a
persistently stunted form of C. persicifolia. Any-
how, a plant of it has come in my garden amongst
seedlings of C. persicifolia.

Pol'l'lEK.

Hybrids amongst Papaver are rare, and I have
found them invariably barren, though they may
develop fruit well-developed and sound. The
many varieties of P. orientale and P. bracteatum
are not properly hybrids, as these two belong to
one species ; but the most interesting hybrid
Poppy 1 have, came originally from Mr. Carriugtou
Ley's garden, near Maidstone, and is P. rupifragum
x P. orientale. The same plant of P. rupifragum
growing there by the side of P. orientale has pro-
duced several successive crops of hybrid seed. I
have twice raised perhaps a hundred plants from
seed he sent me gathered from it, and they are
perfectly constant, being very good garden plants,
flowering abundautly in summer and autumn,
ripening fruit, but never a seed. Mr. Carrington
L?y's Poppy is not the only instance I have
known of the same plant producing only hybrid
seed year after year. I have in vain tried to pro-
duce the same hybrid artificially in Edge garden.
The only other hybrid Poppy I have seen, which
came here spontaneously, was P. caucasioum x 1'.
Rha»as, two very distinct species. The interme-
diate characters were numistakeable. The few
plants which came were, of course, annual. I have
recently sent a note to the Gardeners' Chronicle
concerning P. oommutatum (E. Boissier, syn. P.
umbrosum, Hort.), which has for many years
grown here, and ripened seed, mixed in the same
bed with P. Rbaeas. The seed of P. umbrosum is
blue, and can at once be distinguished from that of
P. llha-as, and so can the seedlings at every stage,
and I have never seen an intermediate form, yet
the Ken- Index treats the two as specifically the
same. I have seen in seed catalogues " Hybrid
Poppies " of particular colour and markings,
offered, said to be between P. Rhaeas and P. som-
uifermn. If such a hybrid exists, which I doubt,
the offspring certainly would not be constant.

Saxifkag \S.
A short notice should be taken of hybrid
Saxifragas. Several of our best winter-Howering
forms are known to be hybrids, as S. apiculata,
from which I have never got seed, and two very
choice Saxifrages, bearing the name of Mr. Boyd,

their raiser. One, with pale yellow flowers, is
presumably S. Burseriana x S. aretioides ; the other,
with white flowers, probably S. Burseriana x S
Rocheliana. Both are sparingly fertile, and I have
raised seedlings from them all reverting towards S.
Burseriana, and inferior to their parents. S. Burser-
iana is a variable species, and it is not always easy
to say whether seedlings of it are hybrids or
typical. I have at least one hybrid which I refer
to it, crossed spontaneously with S. Rocheliana.
The flowers are large, pure white, and nearly
sessile ; the foliage and habit resemble the yellow
S. Boydi, but the flowers are produced very
sparingly. A hybrid named S. Macnabiana, like a
compact and elegant form of S. Cotyledon, comes
nearly true from seed, a rare character in hybrids.
S. longifolia from home seed shows many signs of
being hybridised. In its native home it mixes
freely with S. Aizoou, and this is probably the
commonest foreign pollen parent, but I find most
of the incrusted Saxifragas so uncertain from
garden seed that I cannot say anything definite
about their hybrids. As far as I have observed,
these are mostly more or less fertile. C. Wolley
Dod, Edge Hall, Malpas.

(To he continued*)

CONIFERS.*

[Concluded from /'. 2-27.)

Grafting. —All Conifers, if not too resinous, may
be grafted ; but, however successful this operation
may be, grafted plants are never so successful
as seedlings, because they rarely make perfect
"leaders," and symmetry is thus sacrificed; this
is most marked in Pines and Firs.

In grafting, the selection of the " stock " becomes
an important item, for before we can "graft," we
must have something to graft on, and this " some-
thing " must be suitable, or the grafts will not
"take." The best stock for Thuyas is the Ameri-
can Arbor-vitie (T. occidentalis) ; T. orientalis,
however, refuses to unite with this. Thuya
gigautea is equally good. For Junipers, Jnuiperus
virginiana is best ; and for the Cupressus family,
use C. sempervirens. Larix eurbpsea is a good
stock for Taxodium, and is said to be so for the
Dammara Pine, and for the Deodar Cedar. Cedrns
atlantica forms a good stock for the Deodar.

The weeping forms of Larch are best increased
by inarching in the open ground on the common
Larch (Larix europa;a). For true Pines, use Piuus
sylvestris, P. Strobns, P. excelsa, or Abies pecti-
nata. In all cases seedliugs make the best stocks.
With Pines, a caution is necessary, for if potted in
small pots for the purpose of inside grafting, the
roots often become cramped and assume a cork-
screw form, which always stunts the trees in their
after development. It is advisable to pot only
those seedlings as stocks which possess short and
fibrous roots, and not to twist any of these roots
(the more easily to get them into the pots), and
thus initiate the " corkscrew" twist.

This potting-up of the various stocks should lie
done in autumn, and placed in cold frames. In
March, take these stocks, which will have become
established by this time, and select scions for
them. These scions should consist of '-leaders"
in the Abietiuete and Araucaria, and strong laterals
in Cupressinea; and Taxus. Various methods of
grafting may be adopted. Tongue-graft hig is a
good geueral practice ; but crown, saddle, and
splice-grafting may also be practised with success.
Terminal grafting is, perhaps, the best method ill
Pinus, and, in fact, in Abietineie generally. It is
said that terminal grafting of herbaceous shoots
may be successfully performed in a close case in
spring. Having adapted the scion to the stock in
one or other of the above ways, bind with Raffia,
and smear the union with "clay-paste." Then
place them under the stage in a warm pit for a
couple of days ; at the end of this time examine the

* Extracts from a paper read before the Mutual Improve-
ment Society of the Hoyal Gardens, Kew, by Mr. E. H.
Wilson. The Hooker Prizi> was awarded to this essay.

uuion again, and, if necessary, add more clay, and
plunge them in fibre in a close pit (tempera-
ture 70° F.). Water very sparingly, and occasionally
damp overhead with a fine-rosed can, and shade
from sun's rays. At the end of three weeks or a
month the union should be complete. Take them
out and gradually harden them off, and finally
plant them out in the " nursery," where staking,
watering, &c, must i-eceive every attention.

Pseudo-larix Ksempfera is best propagated by
grafting scions on moderately thick pieces of its
own root, well furnished with fibres. This is a
method which deserves more general practice.
Ginkgo biloba is dioecious, and graftiug serves to
unite the two sexes on one tree. Seedlings, or
cuttings, of the type (G. biloba) form suitable
stocks. Cleft-grafting in March in the open, or
veneer-grafting in August under glass, are both
equally successful.

Cuttings.

Generally speaking, these should be selected from
laterals, when the sap is in full motion (August or
early September). They should consist of last
year's branchlets, 4 to 6 inches in length, with a
"heel." Place them in shallow boxes, or beds of
sandy soil, under a north wall, or in a cold frame,
aud shade. Better still, and always with the more
tender species, place them in pots and plunge in
bottom-heat of 70' F. In the latter case, with the
hardy species, as soon as roots show, harden off
and plant out in cold frame. Their after-treatment
is the same as that of seedlings. In Retinospora
(Cupressus), Araucaria, and Agathis, the main
leader must be taken. With the last two
the leader may be "ringed" and "mossed"
(like Dracama), aud afterwards removed, but I
question if this be really advantageous, for I
once saw one treated in this way and stood in a
temperature of 05° F. for eighteen months, aud
then it had only "callused." Cutting them off
aud plunging in brisk heat is, I think, preferable.
Of course, the Chili Pine requires eonl treatment.
I know of one which was rooted in the open (true,
it was three years in rooting), but it is now making
a nice plant (4 feet high). After the leader has
been removed, uumerous lateral outgrowths form,
and the-ie when large enough make good cuttings.
Araucaria Cunninghami has been raised from root-
cuttings, and I think this might prove a very
remunerative method of propagation. Roots two
or three inches long, and half to three-quarters of
an iuch thick, placed in bottom heat of 05" to 70 F. ,
root in six to eight weeks.

Layering.
This is easily performed by bending, slitting,
and pegging down a desired shoot. It answers
very well for Taxus aud Cupressus. E. II. Wilson.

The Fernery.

■ - • —
CHOICE ADIANTUMS.

FROM among the great number of beautiful
species, it is difficult to make a limited selection,
seeing that all are more or less of merit wheu well
cultivated, and the modern mode of treatment cer-
tainly brings out the characteristics of the plants
to much advantage. In place of peat as a pottiug-
soil, heavy shading on the houses, and much mois-
ture, nearly all the species will be found to succeed
better if potted in a compost cousisting largely of
good fibrous loam, leaf-mould that has been well
cleansed from worms, &c. ; some well-dried stable-
manure (I like to get it free from straw, &c. , and
dry it on the hotwater-pipes), some sharp sand, ami
good drainage. In such a compost there are few
Adiautums which will not succeed. I should add,
that the compost should be used in a rough state,
having a great objection to the use of a sieve, as
it takes away the best portion of the compost.

In potting Adiantums, care should be taken that
the roots are not crowded up together. Where the
roots are much matted together the lower portion

April 29, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

201

may be cut away, for it is from the surface that
the new and most vital roots are produced. I do not
like to disturb them while the plants are dormant,
but after they have started into active growth, at
which period they take hold of the new soil quickly.
Many of those with spreading rhizomes may be
divided according to the number or size of plants
required ; if only a small portion of the outside
rhizomes are taken off with care, young healthy
plants may be established which will soon overtake
the original, especially in the size of the fronds.

After re-potting or dividing, they require a little
shading and a fairly moist atmosphere, but water
should be afforded very sparingly at the roots until
t hey have made a good start. After the plan tsare well
established, and the pots tilled with roots, most of
the Adiantums will take up a good deal of moisture.
While over-watering is one of the greatest evils in
Feru culture, the other extreme is also fatal. With
attention to watering, most of the Adiantums may
be grown fully exposed to the sun, and they will
then make fronds of great substance ; besides
which, iu many varieties the young fronds will
have a bright rosy tint, which is quite lost under
heavy shading. There are some which, under any

A. cardiochhena (polyphyllum) : this is another
which makes a fine specimen, the fronds are of a
pale soft green, with a greyish shade, and when
exposed to the sun the young fronds have a beau-
tiful mauve tiut. It is more suited for larger
specimens, as it does not develop to its full beauty
until it gets into a 6 or 8-inch pot, when it will
grow from 2 to 3 feet high. A. macrophyllum : of
those with bright-tinted fronds this is the best
known, and as it is readily raised from spores it is
grown extensively for market from tiny plants in
thumb pots to large specimens, it is equally beau-
tiful. It requires stove treatment, and unless well
exposed to the light and sun is very tender ; under
any circumstances it cannot be recommended for
winter use, lint during the summer it will stand
fairly well unless exposed to a dry atmosphere.
A. macrophyllum bipinnatum : this has tallish
fronds, and the lower portion bipinuate. I have
never known this to be raised from spores, though
what appear to be fertile fronds are plentiful ; it
may be increased by divisions. A. fovearum : the
young frouds of this species have a bright, almost
crimson tint, changing to a pale soft green.
This may be raised from spores, but is rather a

Fig. '.it cadslby's folding protectors for seeds ind plants.

treatment, will retain the deep green, the varieties
of the Capillus- veneris type beiDg examples of this ;
and I Hud those which never show any colour in
the young fronds like a little more shade than
those with the rosy-tinted frouds.

Iu making a selection, I hardly need say that
A. Farleyeuse should always be included ; the
variety alcicorne, which has deeply-cut, irregular
pinnules, though not au improvement on the type,
is au interesting form. I cau find no record of its
o.-igiu, but I believe Messrs. R. Smith & Co., of
Worcester, were the first to have it, and this must
be upwards of fifteen years ago. A. curvatum is a
very distinct aud beautiful species, with ample,
spreading fronds of a rich deep green, forming a
nice coutrast to those with the bright tints. It is
a native of Central America, and requires stove
treatment ; it is one of those which require shading
from the direct rays of the sun, but will not succeed
under the shade of other plauts. A. trapeziforme
is a more vigorous-growing species, and may be
grown into a large specimen ; this does not show
any colour in the fronds, but will thrive well in a
sunny position. A. Lemonianum is a very distinct
species, with ample, drooping frouds ; the large
pinnules have long, slender stipes. A. Seemani
somewhat resembles the above, but it does not
make such large fronds, and is of a deep
green ; they both require stove treatment and
some care, in order to succeed well with them.

delicate Feru ; it somewhat resembles the beautiful
A. tetraphyllum gracile, which I am afraid is now
nearly extinct iu this country. A. tenerum and
A. scutum : two useful Ferns, differ in that the
first named has fronds which, when young, are of a
crimson tint, while in the latter they are of a pale
hue ; when much exposed they may have a bronzy -
browu tint. A. Lathomi has more drooping fronds,
of a soft pale green. A. Mariesii is one of the best
varieties of Capillus-veneris, the rich, deep green
fronds stand erect on stiff, almost black stipes.
A. imbricatum is also worthy of note, having
drooping fronds, with large, deeply. cut pinnules.
I must leave out the numerous varieties of the
cuneatum type ; also many others whith are
equally worthy of culture. I could from n emory
extend these notes to include upwards of 100 species
aud varieties, all of which have some merit, but
even if space would admit there are not many who
could lind room for such a large number of one
genus. H. A.

New Invention.

•

CAUSLEY'S FOLDING PROTECTORS.

This folding protector, which has just been

patented and put on the market by Mr. C. Causley,

25, Downs Park Bead, West Hackney, London,

seems to be an article of much ingenuity and com-

pleteness for the protection of seeds and plauts in
their early stage of growth. One important feature
it possesses is that, when not in use, it can be
folded into a space of 7 inches in thickness, and
packed away in a small compass, a matter of great
advantage for carriage to a distauce, or for export.
In this frame or protector there are several features,
which are shown by accompanying diagram (fig. 9"),
viz., ventilation, which cau be adjusted at will by
means of two ventilators in the top of each frame,
giving perfect control over the ventilation. The
method of affording water is quite novel, and it is
effected by simply pouring water from an ordinary
watering-pot into a receptacle fitted into the centre
of the top of the frame ; this receptacle, when full,
throws the water in a fine shower to the full
extent of the space under the frame, and as it
empties gradually affords water to the centre, thus
water is applied to the whole space covered by the
frame. In fixing the glass uo putty is used in any
part, the panes of glass slipping into strong ziuc
frames, so that if broken they can be easily re-
placed.

Each frame is complete iu itself. If the ends
are removed a number of frames can be linked
together, so as to form a continuous row, an end
being inserted at each extremiiy, thus a long row
of plants, such as early Peas, Tomatos, Strawberry-
plants, &c, may be protected practically by one
protector, affording free ventilation the whole
length : or an end can be inserted at any desired
part, dividing the row. Wire screens are fitted to
each side of the frames to protect the glass, and
when the frames get too hot, the panes of glass
can be removed from the zinc frames, the wire
screens being left to protect the young plants from
injury. Growth in these protectors is very rapid,
owing to a great degree of warmth generated in
the frames, and the moisture arising from the
e irth,

Florists' Flowers,

CHKYSAXTIIE.MC.Us.

The plants are making rapid progress. In 6ome
few instances the leaves may show a deficiency of
chlorophyll or colouring matter. This is due to
one of three causes, the most likely one being au
excess of water at the roots, which causes a check
to growth. Chrysanthemums are moisture-loving
plants, especially during the summer, when the
pots are full of roots, and growth is free aud
vigorous ; but in the spring, before these conditions
are attained, the plauts may be easily injured by
au excess of moisture at the roots. Cold draughts,
when the plants are first placed iu the frames, may
also cause the foliage to become pale.

Some varieties are more delicate than others,
and continue pale iu colour throughout their
growth. The ingredients of the soil may have an
effect in the same direction, especially if lime be
present iu excess. Iu auy case there is a remedy.
Less water at the roots will be the best corrective
for the cause first named. Greater care in ven-
tilating the frames is an obvious remedy for
draughts of cold air.

If an addition of charcoal and wood-ashes be
made to the compost, it will help to make the
compost more suitable in the case of heavy loam.
The use of sulphate of iron is a ready meaDS of
restoring colour to the leaves. Dissolve half an
ounce of the substance in two gallons of water, and
give an application oace each week.

Continue to repot the plants as they require more
root-room. From 3J-iuch pots, plants should be
removed to pots 54 inches in diameter. The compost
should consist of three parts fibrous- loam, one part
of horse-manure in a half decayed condition ; and a
quantity of wood-ashes, sand, and charcoal, may be
added according to the character of the loam
employed. To 1 bushel of the prepared compost
add 2 lb. of Thomson's vine and plaut manure, or

262

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 29, 1899.

other good fertiliser. Drain the pots with care,
and pot firmly. Place the plants for the present
in a cold frame, facing south. A thick bed of coal-
ashes will keep the base of the pots from becoming
too damp, and prevent the ingress of worms.

After potting the plants keep the frame rather
closer for a few days, until new growth has
commenced. Keep a sharp look-out for insect
pests, of which green and black-fly are the worst ;
dnstings of tobacco-powder will rid the plants of
these. E. Molynenx.

SCALE INSECTS.

The Orthezia is one of, if not the most resistent
of all scale-bugs towards insecticides. An insecti-
cide that will kill Orthezia can be almost guaranteed
against any scale pest. It is remai liable that the
half-grown insects will often survive treatment
that has successfully destroyed the younger and
older individuals.

In the case of isolated trees attacked by this
pest, the gas treatment is really the most effective
and complete. This consists in covering the tree
with a tent or sheet of some closely-woven mate-
rial, beneath which hydrocyanic-acid gas is gene-
rated. The deadly gas will penetrate to every part
of the tree and reach every single insect. I have
recently ascertained by experiment that an extra
strength of the gas with a shorter exposure (than
usually prescribed) is the most certainly fatal to
the insects, and the least injurious to the plants.
The gas treatment, however, though really very
simple, requires cousiderable care in application,
and is subject to certain dangers. It cannot
therefore be recommended for general use without
previous demonstration by a trained operator.

Spraying is the next best measure. But how-
ever thoroughly this work may be done, a certain
proportion of the insects is bound to escape, and
tlic process must be repeated at intervals until the
pest has finally disappeared. I have found that
mixtures, of which soap is the principal component,
are more efficacious against Orthezia than any
other form of insecticide. Besides killing the
insect, the soapy-matter blocks the aperture of the
ovisac, and so prevents the emergence of the young
larvae. Kerosine-soap emulsion is a useful and in-
expensive mixture, but requires careful prepara-
tion. The formula is : — Kerosiue, 2 gallons,
common soap, h lb. ; water, 1 gallon.

Dissolve the soap in water heated to boiling.
Add the kerosiue to the hot mixture, and churn
till it forms a thick cream on cooling. The
churning is the most important part of the process.
If this is not done thoroughly, the oil separates
out on cooling, and will not then mix with water.
A properly compounded emulsion may be subse-
quently diluted to any extent. The churning may
be effected either by stirring vigorously with a
bunch of twigs, or the liquid may be repeatedly
drawn up and expelled through a garden syringe.
To test the mixture, put a drop on to a piece of
glass. If it adheres without separating into oil
globules, the process is complete. Fur application,
dilute with nine or ten times the bulk of water.
Kerosiue emulsion should uot be applied during
sunshine, or serious -injury to the plauts may
result. Circular, Royal Botanic Garden, Geylon.

CAMELLIAS.

" 11. C." (see p. 230) will find that the best time
to repot Camellias is immediately the plants have
flowered, and before the trees commence to grow.
Small trees require to be repotted about once in
three years, and the larger specimens only when
the soil has become impoverished, or soddened by
careless watering. When the latter is the ease, the
pots should be broken, as the plants drawn from
them are apt to be pulled from the roots. Do not
give them too large a shift ; 11 inch will be suf-
ficient room between the ball and tjie pot. Pick
out with a pointed stick all the old soil without

damaging the roots ; then place some hollow
crocks at the bottom of the pot, covering
this with a layer of small broken brick and
pieces of turf, which will prsvent the soil
from being washed into the drainage. In
potting, use a compost of three parts fibrous peat,
one part loamy soil, and sufficient broken charcoal
and silver-sand to keep the whole porous. This
should be added gradually round the ball, and made
firm with a potting-stick, finishing off by leaving
the surface 2 inches below the rim of the pot.
Pruning is essential to keep the plants in a good
shape, and to obtain strong growths and flowering
buds. The shoots should be cut back to about
six leaves, or fewer, according to the strength of
the plants, and as soon as they have finished flower-
ing. Upright - growing varieties, when young,
should have the shoots drawn down with string,
fastened to sticks wired across the pot. This
will cause the back buds to push, and form
growths near the stem. If the surface-soil becomes
stagnant, it should be removed, and a top-dressing
of peat and silver-sand mixed with either Stan-
den's manure, or bone-meal, will be found bene-
ficial. After [lotting, and when the plants are
commencing to grow, raise the temperature of the
house from 65 to 70", and keep a humid atmosphere
by syringing between the pots and overhead with
tepid soft-water. When growth is completed,
admit gradually more air to the house, and when
the plants are sufficiently hardened-off, place them
outside on a cool border, where they will be shaded
from the sun. Auy trees too large for pot-culture
may be planted out iu a border or bed ; but of the
many varieties we grow here, I have only found four
that were not suitable for this purpose, viz. , Reticu-
lata, Bealei rosea, Mrs. Abbey Wilder, and Eximia.
These varieties, if planted against a back-wall in
the large conservatory and kept tied in, succi ed
well. Trees that produce imbricated flowers, are
most favoured. These are not so still and formal,
and as a rule the trees are of better habit. When
limited to space, the following selection of varieties
will be found a goodone: — C. fimbriata alba, white ;
Sacco - i - novre, pink; Leeaua superba, salmon-
red ; Holfordiana anemone, flowered pink ; Peine
des Beautcs, delicate rose ; Chaudleri, red; imbri-
cata, red and white; Madame Lebois, bright
rose ; Leon Lequay, rich crimson ; Eeiue des Fleurs,
vermilion-red ; tjueeu of Eoses, delicate rose ;
Lady Hume's blush, flesh-colour ; Princess Baechi
cocchi, rich velvety-carmine ; and Donckelaari,
semi-double ricli crimson. A. Chapman, Westonbirt.

Belgium.

L'HORTICULTUBE INTERNATIONALE.

In the houses, the Orchids are now beginning to
flower abundantly. I lately noted amoug them
( lucidium sarcodes, with petals and lip very much
spotted ; Miltonia vexillaria, with two inflore-
scences from one bulb, one with large handsome
flowers of a deep rosy-purple tint, the other
with insignificant blossoms. There are many
good varieties of Cattleya Mendeli and Cymbidium
eburneum ; masses of Vanda tricolor and suavis are
opeuiug their fragrant flowers, and there is a fine
V. gigantea with two splendid floral stems. One
house is entirely tilled with Cypripedium Law-
renceanum, with fine and well-coloured flowers ;
another with C. bellatulum coming into bloom ; one
curious variety bore many pale rose-coloured spots
on the blossom. Odontoglossum Wilckeanum and 0.
luteo-purpureum are very fine ; among the former
are the varieties 0. picturatum,' O. chrysanthum, 0.
flexeolum, and 0. pallens ; in the latter group are
0. nigrum, 0. tigrinum, 0. formosum exquisi-
tum, 0. regale, 0. superbum, 0. splendens, 0.
nigrescens, O. spectrum, and 0. conspicuum. There
is a good plant of O. mulus superbum ; one of
O. Rossii majus rubescens, bright lilac-rose, and
with the petals and lip of elegant form, the edges
waved, and fluted, and veined with darker rose;
0. cirrosum is coming freely into flower. Some
examples of Warscewiczella are remarkable for the
deep colour of the segments and lip. Correspondent.

The Week's Work.

— •

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotbam Park, Barnet.

Peas Crowing in Pots. — Peas standing in pots
need careful applications of water, and tolerably
free ventilation iu mild weather. Many varieties
of Peas may be successfully grown iu pots, but the
plants must not be hard forced, the proper night
temperature ranging from 50° to 35°, and that of
the day 10° to 15° higher, with the higher figure in
bright weather. The plants should stand where
the fullest sun reaches them. When the plants
are in bloom, do not syringe so freely as at other
times, but as soon as the pods are formed, dew the
plants over twice daily in bright sunny weather,
and let the temperature run up by partly or quite
closing the ventilators early in the afternoon,
admitting air at a later hour, which need not be
excluded if the weather is mild. The soil must not
be allowed to get dry, more especially when the
plants are in bloom ; aud to assist the pods to
till, afford soot-water aud liquid-manure alter-
nately with tepid clear water. Plants grow-
ing in frames should have the lights drawn off
in bright weather ; this will be better than tilting
the lights at the back and front.

Potalos. — The frames should be freely ventilated
on favourable occasions by day, and water afforded,
not wetting the tops. Let the frames he protected
against cold by means of mats laid on at 0 a.m.,
and uncover at S a.m., or earlier if it be warm.
Before earthing-up the stems, afford water, if such
be needed. Potatos growing in pots should uot be
kept very moist, aud when the tubers are grown of
suitable size for use, the pots may be stood in any
out-of-the-way place, say under the stages of the
house, till required.

Asparagus. — If young plants are not yet planted,
no time should be lost iu getting the operation
finished. The most suitable time to plant Aspa-
ragus is when the young growth appears. Let the
plants be placed iu trenches just deep enough to
allow the crown to be covered with an inch of soil,
and broad euough to allow the roots to be spread
out without crowding. Seed, if not already sown,
should be got into the ground. The produce of beds
in bearing should be gathered daily, and in order
to avert injury by frost, covering materials should
be laid handy to put on when needed.

Globe Artichokes. — The suckers may now be dug
n p, and fresh beds made, by planting clumps of three
or live in well-prepared ground. With suitable
attention to watering and manuring, these plants
will afford good usable heads in the autumn.

Onion* for Pickling. — Sow seed broadcast on
linn, poor soil ; as if sown in the usual manner on
good land the bulbs grow too large.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. II. LoKQ,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Pine-apples. — Affording water anil syringing the
plants will demand frequent attention now that
they are in active growth, aud the sun is getting
more powerful daily. Closing-time, however, is
when syringing has the most beneficial effect ; but
in the morning the damping of the walls and floor
is sufficient, this being repeated during the day
more or less often in accordance with the weather.
Ventilation should be afforded early iu the day if
it be bright, thus preventing an undue rise of the
internal warmth, aud imparting vigour and
sturdiuess to the plants.

Fruiting Plant*, providing the roots have tilled
the pots, are much benefited by the application of
weak liquid manure. Suckers and recently-potted
plants should, however, receive only clear water.
If the plunging material in auy of the divisions
needs removal or additional tan or leaves, choose a
dull day at this season for doing the work, placing
the plants meanwhile close together in one part of
the house or pit, or in an adjacent house or heated
pit. Great care must be taken after making these
additions, that the heat is not so great as to burn
the roots, or cause plants to start to fruit that are
not of the proper age. At the first, it is safer uot to
plunge the pots to their full depth, and should the
test sticks or the plunging thermometer show a
heat of more than 90° iu the fruiting-house or of
80 to 82 in the succession and sucker-pits, loosen
the pots in the bed, or lift them aud put a couple of
handfuls of tan, &c, at the bottom of the hole,
returning the plant to it, and finally plunging it

AniiL 29, 1S99.]

THE GAR DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

20;;

when the beat has receded to a safe point.
If a bed becomes very hot, besides lifting
the pots, bore holes all over with a stout
stake, in order to allow the heat to escape. In
replacing, do not permit crowding, but let each
plant have sufficient space for half a year's growth ;
keep all plants pretty close to the glass, and be
sure that there is a clear run for drip on the rafters,
or much harm will be done by the sotldening of the
soil in the pots. Small zinc troughs 1 inch wide
are very useful in dripping houses in carrying off the
condensing moisture. Take suckers whenever any
good strong ones can be obtained, but do not let more
thau two develop on any plant. Close the house in
the afternoon as early as is safe, syringing freely
among the plants on bright days, but omitting this
when the weather is cold or cloudy. Avoid the
overhead damping of plants in bloom, or those on
which fruit has changed colour. If more fruits are
ripening than can be consumed, the plants with
ripe fruits may be removed to a cool room. The heat
in the pipes must be regulated in accordance with
the weather, keeping it low during sunshine, and
allowing an increase of warmth in time to meet the
declining solar warmth before it recedes too much.
Early Vinery. — Where stouiug of the berries
is passed, progress will be rapid, demanding close
attention to the application of water to the inside
borders, more especially if these are shallow or
narrow, aud the loam they consist of is of a light
nature. Once a mouth may suffice for borders made
of heavy soil, when others may need water once a
week. This is a point of importance, and cau only
be determined by the gardener. Red-spider, which
often puts in au appearance in vineries at this
season, cau be kept in check by painting the pipes
with sublimated sulphur, which is to be preferred to
the Howers-of-sulphur because more effectual ami
safer. Syringing of the Vines, if practised, should
be discontinued as soon as colouring commences,
and a "chink" of air at night assists materially
in giving a perfect finish. If red-spider is already
established, sponging of the foliage is the best
remedy ; but prevention is the better course, and
can be obtained by judicious ventilation and water-
ing, aud the use of sulphur on the hot-water pipes.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Uolford, Westoubirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Hardy Ferns. — The majority of these plants
revel when planted on a rockery, provided the right
position aud the proper sort of soil be used.
Where suitable stone is not procurable, burrs from
the brick-kilns form excellent substitutes, and
pockets can be readily formed from them. The
best position for a fernery is one with a northern
aspect, or in a shady dell, with plenty of subdued
light. The Scolopendriums and a few others will
grow in the deep shade of trees and rocks. Ferns
may be cultivated on level grouud and on banks,
but the beautiful forms do not show themselves to
such perfection as when seen against some rugged
rockwork ; neither can they be treated separately
in such positions as regards the amount of mois-
ture aud the kiud of soil that suits them.

Soils ami other Materials. — Peat, loam, leaf-
mould, broken sandstone, and limestone, and soft
bricks, are the chief requirements of most Ferns.

Planting and Arrangement. — In arranging the
plauts in a fernery it is advisable to mix some of
the evergreen varieties with the deciduous ones,
which will take oil' the bareness in the winter
common to feruciies, when these are planted solely
with the latter. Among evergreen species are
Asplenium Triehomanes, A. Adiautum nigrum, A.
angustifolium, A. fontanum, A. germanicum, A.
laneeolatum, A. Rata muraria (wall-rue or spleeu-
wort), which all require small nooks in the higher
and drier portion of the rock-work. Polypodium
vulgare aud its distinct varieties, crenatum, cam-
bricum, semilacerum, onmilacernm, pulcherrimum,
grandiceps, and cristatum, form fine masses when
planted in stiff retentive loam. Blechnum spicant
(Hard Fern) is in many districts not easy to estab-
lish, but where it succeeds it is a uoble Fern ; Poly-
stichum aculeatum and P. angulare are by far
the easiest aud handsomest to cultivate, growing
from spores freely, and soon forming graceful speci-
mens. P. angulare grandiceps, proliferum, and
Wollastoni, and numerous other varieties of these,
are distinct aud beautiful. Scolopendrium vul-
gare, and its many varieties or sports, are refresh-
ing and cool to look upon. They prefer a strong
loam, but they will grow well in brashy rock and
sandstone dibris provided moisture is not lacking.

Lastnea filix-mas, L. cristata, L. dilatata and
varieties, are almost evergreen, and may be planted
in the more exposed positions of the rockery.
Among the deciduous Ferns, Athyrium filix-
fcemina (the Lady Fern) is the most fragile, and
should be planted in a shady, sheltered position,
and where there is much dampness. The number-
less varieties of these are very distinct, both
in the form of the fronds anil in the dark and light
green colour of the stems. Cystopteris fragilis, C.
f. Dickiena, C. f. bulbifera, aud C. f. montana,
when once planted, spread among the crevices of
the rockery ; Osmunda regalis, 0. r. cristata,
0. cinnamomea, 0. interrupta, 0. spectabilis,
should be planted at the base of the rockery where
the conditions are very moist. The same site
suiting Onoclea sensibilis, a fern that delights in
the shade must have plenty of room for its rhizomes
to spread. Polystichum Lonchitia and P. L. muni-
tum, a Californian species, are perfectly hardy and
very distinct ; Cyrtomium falcatum and C. f. For-
tuuei are both hardy in these gardens, planted in
the driest position in the rockery, and soon grow
iuto large specimens.

Treatment. — Ferns that have been established
some years can be kepi in health by annual top-
dressings of loam, leaf mould. u id peat afforded before
the fronds throw up, and after a heavy rainfall.
In very dry places or in soils that part with their
moisture quickly, a few fiat pieces of stone placed
on the surface will prevent a good deal of evapo
ration of moisture.

The Hock Ganleit. lloekcrics that have been
formed uear to the edges of ornamental water, or

in deep ravines, are the m< iffeotive if planted

with shrubs of as bold a type as the rockery will
permit, such as flowering Berberis, Spiraas, clump-
of green-leaved and variegated Ivies, Cotoneastera,
Roses, Daphnes, Ericas, Rubus, &c, also i
Ferus, giant Grasses, Bamboos, Megaseas, and
other plants that have striking outlines. These, in
lime, will be apt to overgrow the space allotted to
them, and should then be carefully cut back during
spring ; but preserving in them a rugged outline,
so as to secure a natural appearance.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq., Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

The Straivbt rry. — The time has arrived when i he
beds should be afforded a mulch of long stable
litter or other not readily decaying materials, for
the purpose of keeping the fruits clean. Before the
litter is placed round the plants, the ground should
be hoed, aud weeds removed by hand from among
the crowns. If stable litter be used, it should be
the straw only; this must be brought close up
around the plants, and spread over the alleys as
well. By applying the mulching now, themannrial
properties will be washed down to the roots by the
rain, aud the straw made sweet and clean before
the fruits appear. If no rain should fall soon
afterwards, water ought to be applied by hand
or with a hose, before the sun and air have dis-
sipated the ammonia, &c. Manure-water may
also be poured iu the alleys so as to strengthen
the growth, especially when the beds are two or
three years old. If stable litter be not obtainable,
dry bracken may be substituted, and for keeping
the fruits clean it answers the purpose very well.
At Dropmore, bracken only is used, a thin mulch
of horse-droppings with a slight mixture of peat-
litter as brought from the stables, and turned over
and broken up finely, being afforded the beds early
in the spring. Owing to the unseasonable weather,
but few flower-trusses have pushed up on tin'
earliest varieties, and au early season can scarcely
be looked for.

Planting-out forced Strawberry Plants. — The
later batches of plants are excellent for planting-
out purposes, producing heavy crops tin; next year,
and after this date they require but little hardening
off before being planted. For producing a few
dishes of fruits in autumn, too, the variety
Vicomtesse H. de Thury is often very valuable.
Wheu planting, the root-mass should be reduced iu
size by shaking away some of the outer soil, aud
the soil in the pots should be iu a moderately moist
condition. Plant at 2 feet apart each way in ground
that has been manured and deeply dug, and make
the land firm by trampling around the plants.

General Remarks. — The weather, at the time of
writing, is cold and overcast, and not favourable to
the blossoming of fruits of any sort, rendering the
use of coverings still advisable.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wican,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Odontoglossum crispum. — Where manyplani s are
grown, some of them will be in a condition render,
ing repotting or surfacing necessary before the
weather becomes warm, summer warmth having an
injurious action to the plants which are not
re-established. Plants from which the flower-
spikes have recently been removed, should be
afforded only as much water as will avert the
shrivelling of the pseudo-bulbs, otherwise there
will be premature growth.

A nguloas.— These species of tropical Orchids,
sometimes called Cradle Orchids from the swinging
movement a slight touch imparts to the flower,°are
not favourites with Orchid-cultivators, though
when well grown and arranged with other species
of strong growth they are showy plants. The
flower-scapes are now appearing at the base of the
young growths, and these will shortly be followed
by a Latch of new roots. In order that these may
afford nutriment to the plant, fresh materials
should now be applied to the surface after picking
out as much as possible of the old. The materials
should consist of turfy-peat, loam, and sphagnum-
moss iu about equal proportions, sprinkling in as
the work of filling proceeds some very small crocks.
Any plant which has become too large for the pot,
&c., should be carefully turned out at this season,
a little of tin- surface-soil removed and placed in a
larger pot, providing there are no old back bulbs
to remove, for when this is possible, probably the
plant will only require a pot of the samr dial

Lei the space around the ball be filled
in with crocks to within 2} inches of the rim,
cover these with rough material, aud finish off
with thr mixed compost. Anguloas should 1
in an intermediate house, and he very sparingly
afforded water till the roots grow. Later in the
|| i. n if the undersides of the leaves are syringed
on favourable occasions, red spider will not increase
in number. Lycaste plana Barringtoniae, I..
L. Cobbiana, L. costata, ami the
wonderful green-flowered 1.. Mooreana, thrive
under like conditions and treatmi

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. It. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard

de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

sew. Of the varieties of these plants which
are suitable for pot-culture, S. splendens, S. splen-
dens var. Bruanti, S. coccinea, 8. Bethelli, and S.
patens, are tlm.se commonly grown, and of these
again the first and last named are probably the
most useful and effective. S. splendens is extremely
Boriferous, producing if the most

vivid scarlet flowers, whilst S. patena rivals the
alpine Gentians iu possessing Ho were of the deepest
shade of blue. Salvias are generally propagated
from cuttings, aud young shoots inserted now' in
-H-inoh pots filled with sandy soil, aud placed in a
warm house, or plunged in a hot-bed, will root
readily, and may then be potted off singly into
small pots, and placed in a pit with an intermediate
temperature for a few days to become established,
afterwards being gradually hardened off and placed
in a cold pit. When well-rooted they should be
shifted into 5-inch or 6-inch pots. Salvia splendeus
is subject to the attacks of red-spider, and should
therefore be freely syringed during dry weather.
When all danger of frost is passed Salvias may be
stood in the open air, on a lied of coal ashes.

Miscellaneous. -Place a few plants of Euphorbia

(Poinsettia) pulcherrima in the stove to provide
cuttings for an early batch of plauts, but, as later-
struck plants are best for the main supply, keep the
old plants at rest for two or three weeks longer. Con-
tinue to put in cuttings of Begonia Gloire de Sceaux
ami < Gloire de Lorraine for late flowering, also other
winter - blooming species aud varieties. (
varieties of tuberous-rooted Begonias may;;!
increased by cuttings when the young shoot
attaiued the length of 4 or 5 inches. L
socotraua should lie kept quite dry at the root
while resting, and may be placed iu an interme-
diate temperature. Iponneas and other climbing
annuals should be prevented from becoming entail
gled by timely attention to staking them, and by
staging them wide apart. Small dead seedling
Larch form a very suitable support for Ipo
Quamoclit, or, failing this, a few sprays of Birch
about 18 inches in length may fie placed in
pot.

264

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[ArwL 29, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES,

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR MAY.

TUESDAY,

THURSDAY,

FRIDAY,

TUESDAY,

FRIDAY,
SATURDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, May IV

May 2
May 4-
May 5-

May 9

May 12-
May 13-

FRIDAY,

SATURDAY,
MONDAY,

Mai 19-!

M n 20 ]

WEDNESDAY, May 24-

FRIDAY,
SATURDAY,

WEDNESDAY

M \\ 26

May 27-

U m 31

Royal Horticultural Society s i loin-

mittees.
Scottish Horticultural Society,

Meeting.

Linuean Society, Meeting.

Royal Botanic Society, Lecture
National Auricula Society (Nor-
thern Division): Exhibition in
Coal Exchange, Manchester.

Royal Horticultural Society of
Ireland, Meeting.

Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

Royal Horticultural Society's Com-
mittees.

National Rose Society's Committee
Meeting.

Imperial Russian Gardeners' Asso-
ciation : International Exhibition
at St, Petersbtirgh (10 days).

Manchester Royal Botanical So-
ciety's Whitsunttde Exhibition,
continuing until May 25.

Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

Cheltenham Horticultural Society's
Exhibition (2 days).

Bank Holiday.

Duncan Society, Anniversary
Meeting.

Bath and West and Southern Coun-
ties show at Exeter (5 days).

York Florists' Exhibition of Tulips,
&c.

Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

Annual Exhibition of the Royal
Horticultural Society, in the
Gardens of the Inner Temple,
London (3 days).

SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

WEDNESDAY, May 3

FRIDAY,

(Lilies, Greenhouse Plants, Bego-
nias, Gla'lioli, ,yc, at Pro-
^ thoroe & Morris1 Rooms.

. ( Imported and Established Orchids,
u ( at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS token in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period April Hi to April 22, 1S9D. Height above sea-
level 21 feet.

1899.

a
S

PeMPERATURE OF
THE AlR.

Tempera-
tcre of the
Soil at 9 a.m.

V-
o

H

OS

IS
o

O
H
O

Oi

a

J
J
<

<

At 9 a.m.

i

•to
W

t

g

ft

05
<D

O

o

<

&

<

deg.

13

<

S BS
R

J O J

S ^ £

a. o,
< <

■2
&

n

n

is

< \

deg. deg.ldeg.deg.

ins.

deg.

deg. [deg.

Son. Hi

N.N.W.

43'7 41147-540'S

oiio 46-S

46-0

46-8(34-5

Mon. 17

N.E.

42-4 37-8 52-4

310

... 15-6

46-9

468

22-9

Tues. is

N.W.

41 6

ll-g|SS'0

31-3

... 45-0

46-9

46- S

■_• 4 - o

Wed. 10

w.s.w.

47- 1

41-9 58'!

29-6

... 16-7

47-1

46-9

21-0

Tho. 20

w s.w.

50'2

45-059-1

32-5

0-1948-1

47'0

46'9

24-3

Fki. 21

S.E.

42-5

41'0 45'S

120

0 20 49-9

4S-1

46-9

41-2

Sat. 22

N.N.E.

43-5J39-2J55-0

34-0

.. 40-i

47".

47-1

25-0

Means..

44-9 41-S53-1

34-4

Tot.
0-43 471

47 -e

46-9

27'6

HemurkB.— The week has been characterised by dull weather,
and very cold mornings.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 51 5°.

Actdal Temperatures : —

London.— April 26 (12f.il): Max. 56°; Min. 45°.
Provinces.— April 26 6 p.m.) : Max. 54°, Salisbury ; Min.
47°, Tynemouth.

Apple-tree
Roots and

Stocks.

Few subjects connected with
hardy fruits are of more interest
and importance than that of the
influence of stocks, and the study of the root-
system of the trees. There is much more to
be learnt in this matter, and it is well worth a
thorough investigation, though many difficulties
are in the way of a satisfactory inquiry. In the
first place, it is almost impossible to secure a
number of trees or stocks in a uniform and
comparable condition. Even in dealing with
one kind of stock raised either from seed or
layers, there are always considerable visible
differences in the vigour of stem and root
growth, and internal variations may still more
often occur which are not evident. It is rare
that much time can be devoted in nurseries or
gardens to the selection of stocks of equal
strength. The weakest, or deformed, may be
discarded ; but amongst those retained, though
healthy, and quite satisfactory for ordinary
purposes, differences in the amount of roots
or strength of stem equal to 100 per cent, can
be commonly found on close examination.

Consequently, with the greatest care that can
be adopted, some variations are always observ-
able in the growth and behaviour of trees
worked on the same stocks under similar con-
ditions. How far such characters may prove
constant, or merely temporary, experience in
each case can only determine ; for it is impos-
sible, with our present knowledge, to state a
rule that is equally applicable to all. Attempts
have been frequently made to generalise on the
influence of stocks, but as they are necessarily
founded on incomplete evidence, they are
repeatedly nullified by fresh observations.

About the year 1875 a collection of stocks for
Apples was formed at Chiswick ; they were
obtained from the most reliable sources, were
carefully compared, and the eighteen supposed
distinct sorts were practically reduced to the
following: — French Paradise (Pommier du
Paradis), English Paradise, English Nonsuch,
English Broad-leaved, Doucin, Pommier Franc
(Free Stock, presumably a seedling), Dutch
Paradise, and the Crab. The whole eighteen
were, however, kept under their respective
names, and all were grafted with Blenheim
Orange. In the third year from grafting the
trees showed flowers ; and for four years, namely,
from 187S to 1882, the blossoms were counted,
and the numbers recorded. Considerable differ:
ences were observed,- but the disparity is quite
as great between the results from the stocks
that were considered identical as from those
admitted to be distinct, though attention is riot
specially called to this point in the record.
For instance, the French Paradise, as obtained
from an English nursery, and Pommier du Paradis
from a French establishment, were found to be
identical and true to name, yet the tree on
the former produced in the five years one hun-
dred and ninety-two flowers, while that on the
latter bore four hundred and sixty flowers.
Again, two stocks obtained from old trees in tho
Chiswick Gardens, regarded as "identical, and
probably the English Paradise," bore in the
one ease two hundred and thirty-five flowers,
and in the other none at all in the whole
period.

In a third case, two stocks received as Pom-
mier du Paradis and English Paradise from the
same source, were determined to be "identical
and distinct from either the true French or
English Paradise," yet the former only pro-
duced forty-six flowers, and the latter had one
hundred and ten. The nearest approach to
each other in flower results in the case of stocks

bracketed as identical were afforded by the
Pommier Doucin, and Doucin from different
sources ; the numbers being for the former
five hundred and four, and for the latter three
hundred and seven, still a material disparity.
Very little fruit was produced during the period
named, and the growth also did not afford any
uniform indication of the stock effects, except
that the strongest were the trees on the Crab
and Free stocks. These trees have been ex-
amined many times, but no definite conclusions
could be drawn from their subsequent behaviour.

At the present time an even more interesting
series of facts may be noted at Chiswick in con-
nection with this subject. About fifty varieties
of Apples were worked on a dozen presumably
distinct stocks, and in the first year it was
thought marked differences were being deve-
loped ; but further experience has brought out
some strange results, for, in many instances, the
trees are as nearly alike as it is possible for trees
to be. Without going into full details, the
following varieties are especially noteworthy,
the trees being in bush or pyramidal form, and
some are now of considerable size. A dozen
good trees of Waltham Abbey Seedling on as
many stocks show very little difference in
growth. Bramlcy's Seedling, on seven stocks,
are all materially alike, except one on the
French Paradise, whijh is dwarfer, and more
compact. All the others show the free, open,
vigorous habit of the variety. Mere de Menage
on seven stocks are nearly exactly alike, and as
far as appearance of the growth is concerned,
no one could suppose there was any difference
in the roots.

Twelve well-developed trees of Claygate
Peannain, or as many stocks, afford a remark-
able instance, for they, tire as uniform as
possible.

The same number of Lane's Prince Albert
closely resemble each other, and till show the
peculiar loose habit of the variety. Six Cox's
Orange Pippin, and seven Yellow Ingestre,
are examples of the same kind.

In the course of lifting many of these trees,
Mr. S. T. Which t assures us that the differences
in the roots were no more marked than in the
growth ; and the saute observation applies to the
quantity of the fruit, while the individual fruits
are not affected in size, colour, or quality.

If the whole history of these trees were not
known, it would be thought that some mistake
had been made ; but such an idea cannot be
entertained here, for the original experiments
were commenced under the superintendence of
Mr. A. F. Bahiion, and every care hits un-
doubtedly been taken to ensure accuracy. We
know that considerable differences are visible
in the various stocks at the beginning of their
career, and it is evident that certain varieties
can gradually overcome all these peculiarities,
asserting their own characteristics, the influence
extending to the root system. That some
varieties of Apples possess a greater vitality
than others a moderate experience in pruning,
grafting, and budding will demonstrate if a
close observation is kept. There is a greater
power of forming fresh tissue, of healing wounds,
and of effecting a perfect union with the stocks
upon which they are worked. A good example
of what is referred to here is afforded by
Bramley's Seedling, which forms new tissue
very rapidly, and it is for this reason that it has
been recommended for grafting on beheaded
trees in the process of restoring old orchards.
It is surprising how large a surface becomes
covered and " healed " by the new cell-growth
from healthy scions of this Apple.

April 29, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

265

Another variety which possesses the same
power in almost an equal degree, though a
much less vigorous grower, is Potts' Seedling,
and this also exerts a powerful influence upon
the roots. Lord Grosvenor, Red Astrachan,
Cockle's Pippin, Cox's Pomona, and Gascoigne's
Scarlet Seedling, may be taken as similar
examples, but many more could be named ; and
the power is not confined to the strongest
growers either, for there are several which
produce only slender wood but which are yet
vitally strong.

Not only do such varieties assert their special
characters to a great extent independently of

starting, but even their characters are lost in time,
and when "worked'' with vigorous varieties.
After handling hundreds of trees of various ages
it would liave been easy to select some on
seedling stocks that might have been taken for
layers, and vice versa, so far as could have
been judged by the proportion of fibrous roots
and the direction of the main divisions. The
whole subject, however, is full of interest, and
there is ample room for investigation.

Foremen in the Royal Gardens, Windsor.
— The particulars of the services of tlie foremeu at
Windsor furnish evidence of long garden service

to his credit. John Chinnell, foreman over the
flower-gardens, slopes, and pleasure-grounds, counts
forty-two years' service. William Barker, fore-
man of Frogruore House Garden, entered the
garden as a boy thirty-four years ago. Thomas
Edwards, plant foreman and book-keeper, entered
tlie service twenty-live years since. .Ions Dunn,
foreman of the fruit department under glass,
counts sixteen years' service : and so does J. .1 ok,
foreman in charge of the old Vine and private
garden at Hampton Court. James Brown, fore-
man of the hardy fruit department, fifteen years ;
Jakes Green, foreman of the Royal Lodge Garden,
Windsor Great Park, seven years ; .1. Allen,
having charge of the old Vine at Cumberland

Flo. '.IS. — TIIK STAFF IN IIKR MAJESTY'S GARDENS AT WINDSOR, 1899.

1, w. Barker ; 2, J, Brown; o, T. Edwards; 4, J. Dunn; 5, J. Chinnell; 6, C. Mark; 7. Owes Thomas (H&vl Gui

6, G. Hampton; 9, J. Jack; 10, J. Green.

the stock upon which they are growing, pro-
vided other conditions are on an equal basis,
but they ati'ect the root system of the stock
both as regards mode of growth and texture.
This applies more particularly to stocks that
have been raised from layers. When we are deal-
ing with seedling stocks, whatever they may be,
the differences between themselves are very
much greater, and the tap-root exerts an influ-
ence for a considerable time, even though it be
shortened, and its downward tendency checked
by artificial means. The root-systems of the
two types of stocks are essentially different at

under one employer, which can scarcely be equalled
by any other private garden establishment, and helps
to demonstrate the comfortable conditions under
which the work of Her Majesty's private gardens
are conducted. Each foreman is well paid, well
housed, and secure of a fair pension, if he lives to
become too old for work. The nationalities of
the foremen are fairly divided, six being English,
three being Scotch, one being Irish, and one
Welsh. Marr has held the position of kitchen-
garden foreman for the long and uninterrupted
period of fifty-two years, and is still in office at
eighty years of age ! George Hampton, foreman
of the walks aud plantations, has forty-seveu years

Lodge, thirty-three years; and J. Carruthers,
having charge of the lloyal Pavilion Grounds,
Aldershot, seventeen years ; the length of service
of the eleven men counting 804 years, and an aver-
age for each of over twenty seven years. God save
the Queen !

The Royal Horticultural Society's next
meeting will be held ou Tuesday, May 2, in the
Drill Hall, Westminster, when a lecture on "The
British and Swiss Alpine Floras," will be given by
Mr. E. A. N. Arber, B.A., at 3 o'clock.

LlNNEAN SOCIETY.— At the meeting to be held
on Thursday, May 4, 1899, at S P.M., the following

206

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 29, 1S99.

papers will lie read :— 1, " The Position of Anoma-
lurus as indicated by its Myology," by Mr. F. G.
Parsons, F.E.C.S., F.L.S., &c. ; 2, " On Notheia
anomala, Harv. et. Bail," by Miss Ethel S.
Barton ; 3, "On Variation in the Desmidiew," by
G. S. Wi-.sr, B.A., A.R.O.S , &o.

Royal Institution of Great Britain.—

An interesting course of two lectures on "Water-
weeds,'' by Professor L. C. Miall, F.R.S., will be
delivered on Thursday, May 25, and Thursday,
June 1.

Small Worms in Pots.— The Rev. Hilderic
Friend, Qcker Hill, Tipton, writes : " I should be
glad if you could inform your readers that I shall
be happy to receive and report on small worms
found in pots, among flowers, plants, fruits, grass,
manure, &-c. , especially if suspected of being the
cause of injury. All helpful information should be
sent, and specimens of injured material with living
specimens of the worms."

Secret Commissions. —The Prevention of
Corruption Bill introduced in the House of Louis
by the Lord Chief Justice, " may be shortly stated
as an effort to check, by making them criminal, a
large number of inequitable and illegal secret pay-
ments, all of which are dishonest, and tend to
shake confidence between man aud man, and to
discourage honest trade and enterprise." The pre-
amble is, in effect, a copy of the finding on the
subject of a special committee appointed by the
Loudon Chamber of Commerce, on which twenty
oi the trade sections of the Chamber were repre-
sented. Sections 1 and 2 make the gift, offer,
receipt, and solicitation of any corrupt payments
offences. Corrupt payments are not defined by
the Bill, but certain transactions are declared
to be corrupt ; and the reason why no attempt is
made to deliue corruption is, "that the thing is so
Protean, that to define it is almost impossible."
Sections 3 to 8 inclusive contain declarations that
certain specific transactions are corrupt unless the
coutrary be showu ; sections 3 and 4 deal with the
common case of gifts to the agent by persons
having dealings with his principal ; and sections 5
aud G deal with bribes given, not to the agent, but
to his wife or child and others. Sections 7 and 8
deal with a different class of "unconscionable
transactions," and seek to put an end to the prac-
tice of taking commissions for advice.

Dr. A. W. Chapman died at Apalachicola,
Florida, on the evening of April 6. He was by far
the oldest of the American botanists, having passed
or being on the poiut of passing his ninetieth birth-
day, and, of course, he was the last survivor of the
generation of Torrey, Gray, Engelmann, &c.
He is best known for his Flora of the Southern
State, published originally in 1800, with the co-
operation of Prof. Eaton as regards the Ferns.

"Sowerby'S English Botany."— The pro-
prietors of Nature are about to issue a special re-
priut of that well-known work. The third edition
of Sowerby*s English Botany, to be offered on the
instalment system, which has recently become so
popular. As in the former editions, all the illus-
trations will be coloured by hand.

Berlin Horticultural Exhibition. — The
Society for the Encouragement of Horticulture in
Germany has arranged that a winter flower-show,
inaugurated by them, shall be held during seven
days in February, 1900, in the Zoological Gardens,
Berlin. The programme, now ready (application
to be made to 42, Invalideustrasse), mentions
eighteen sections, in all of which awards are offered
for the various exhibits.

Double Arabis.— The flowers of the Arabia
shown by Messrs. Veiti ii & Suss, at the last
meeting of the Itoyal Horticultural Society, prove
on examination to be more interesting than was
apparent at a glance. The sepals were of the
ordinary character, but there were no stamens.
In their place were twelve petals, thus making the

numerical symmetry complete (S. 4 P 4 An. 4 +
An. 4). There was no pistil, but in its place
another flower-bud (median prolification).

Presentation. — Mr. H. Humphreys, late
head-gardener to A. Spicer, Esq., J.P., The
Pookery, St. Mary Cray, was on Thursday,
April 6, presented with a very handsome marble
clock, towards the cost of which some sixty-three
persons subscribed. At the base of the clock was
a brass plate bearing the inscription, "Presented
to Mr. H. Humphreys by a few friends as a token
of esteem, April 6, 1899."

Mr. W. Wiught, on leaving Eyecroft

Nursery, Lewisham, where he had been foreman
for eight years, was presented with a handsome
marble timepiece by the rest of the employes of the
firm, as a token of their esteem.

"The Romance of Wild Flowers " is, we
learn, the title of Mr. Edward Step's forthcoming
work, this being the first volume of a proposed
new series to be issued by Messrs. Frederick
Warne & Co., under the general title of "The
Library of Natural History." The book will be
very rich in illustrations reproduced from photo-
graphs taken by Mr. Step and his daughter, as
during the past twelve months, whenever anything
of interest to illustrate the text was obtainable,
the author (who had the opportunity of writing
his book amid the surrouiiuings of a Cornish sea-
side village) availed himself of it. In addition to
these illustrations, there are to be upwards of a
hundred of a minor character dispersed throughout
the volume. Lovers of his two little books, Way-
aide ami Woodland Blossoms, aud they are
numerous, will have a treat to look forward to.

Anne Pratt's "Flowering Plants of
Great Britain," will lie shortly re-issued in Is.
weekly parts. This new edition has beeu most
carefully and sympathetically revised by Mr.
EDWARD Step, P.L.3., and will contain two more
plates than the former issues, 315 in all. Practi-
cally, for lovers of wild flowers, Pratt's hook has
been the authority among illustrated works, over
1,500 species being figured in the coloured plates.
The text has been re-set in a larger type than the
recent edition. The publishers, Messrs. FREDERICK
WARNE A Co., inform us that there are to be
thirty-six parts. Aa the book has now been out of
print for some years, and was ouly obtainable in
four volumes at a comparatively high price, this
will be good news to lovers of botany, among whom
this work requires no recommendation.

Tea Rose Liberty.— Accordiug to American
Gardening, never has Nature yielded to the pains-
taking hybridist aud plant-raiser a more beautiful
or more satisfying colour than that seen in the new
hybrid Tea Rose Liberty. When we have got to
the end of the heroics, we learn that the colour is
rich liquid ruby. It was raised at Belfast in the
nurseries of Messrs. DlCKSOS, from a grandchild of
Mrs. W. J. Grant by Victor Hugo.

CUBA. — The Americans are turning their new
possession to accouut. According to an adver-
tisement in American Gardening we see that
"absolutely free warranty deeds" are offered to
Americans "in one of the choicest, most beautiful,
and fertile spots on the most fertile island in the
world." It appears that no English need apply ; but
the Grapes are not ripe enough for English taste.

Fruit from the Cape.— The Union Royal
Mail Steamship Company's vessel Scot, brought on
her last trip 7211 boxes of Grapes, 179 boxes of
Pears: total. 899 boxes. Some of the Grapes
arrived in good condition, although packed in cork
and peat-dust, and realised good prices. A large
number of boxes arrived in exceedingly bad con-
dition, owing, it is stated, to being badly and
insufficiently packed in peat-dust. The shippers
in the Colony ran short of the usual wood-wool
packing, and had to resort to cork and peat-dust.
Forty boxes of Pears contained a hard culinary

variety, and were carried in the ship's hold as
ordinary cargo, aud they arrived in very good
condition ; the other Pears consisted of dessert
varieties which also arrived in good condition.

Botanic Garden on the Maloja Pass. —

Dr. Hans Schinz hopes to be able to publish the
first accouut of the results obtained by forming an
alpine garden on the Maloja l'ass in the annual
report for next year of the Zurich Botanic Garden.
During the current year several hundreds of speci-
mens from the Engadine have beeu planted and
duly labelled. The Director acknowledges, with
many thauks, the assistance rendered to him in
this work by Heir G. Hegi, of Zurich.

Apple Allen's Everlasting.— In respect of
this Apple, which we figured on p. 222, Mr. Geo,
Br/NYARD writes: "As a garden tree it forms
admirable, rather upright pyramidal examples,
which soon attain a fruiting size, and they boar freely
and repeatedly. It also succeeds as a cordon or
espalier, and will probably make a neat orchard
standard. Though this variety has been before, the
public for nearly 30 years, it is only those who
cater for private tables that would notice it,
because its appearance is uot striking ; but as a
long keeping fruit of the highest quality and flavour
it has few equals. In our fruit-room it retains its
flavour and keeps well until April. As the fruits
take a long time to mature they should be allowed
to hang upon the trees quite into November, and if
gathered too soon they will shrivel and beeomo
worthless. Keep them in a cool moist position in
the fruit-store. The fruits being produced in
clusters they should be thinned, or they will not
attain perfection.

The Vegetation of the Globe. -Ender the
title of Die Vegetation <l< r Erde, Professors Englkr
and Drude are editing a scries of monographs on
geographical botany. One of the most interesting
of these is now before us, in the shape of a mono-
graph on the distribution of plants in the Caucasus,
by Dr. GtrsTAV Radde. The work comprises
chapters on the Steppes of the Caucasus, the
Colchian district, the Caucasian forests, the rock-
plants, the Alpine flora of the Caucasus, and other
matters. The work is illustrated with numerous
photographic illustrations and maps.

A Pansy Disease.— Mr. Ralph E. Smith in
the March number of the Botanical Gazette (Chicago),
describes a "leaf-spot" disease which has been
found very destructive in the State of Massachusetts
The disease is characterised by the appearance upon
affected leaves of circular, dead spots with a dis-
tinct black margin. The shape afterwards becomes
irregular. The petals also become spotted and
often distorted, aud no seed is produced. The
fungus which causes this disease is called Colleco-
trichum Violoe-tricoloria. A figure and description
are given in the periodical above mentioned.

Apple-Canker. — The cause of this malady
was for long a subject of discussion, aud for some
it still is. Those who are of the same opiuion as
ourselves, that it is caused bf fungi, and specially
by Nectria ditissima, should show the strength of
their convictions by sprayiug their trees at this
season with Bordeaux Mixture as a preventative.
Perhaps they will not think it worth while to do
so. Meanwhile, the Americans think it worth
their while to profit by our negligence by sending
us tens of thousands of barrels of Apples. Some of
these should be superfluous if our orchardists paid
more attention to tlicir business. Mr. W. Paddock,
in the Proceedings ofi the Western New York fforli,
cultural Society, January 25, 26, has a very
suggestive paper on the subject.

Flowers at Weddings, btc— There may be
noticed an increasing tendency to associate particu-
lar flowers with persons and with names. Most
people know how lavishly Prinrroses were used in
the decorations in connection with an interesting

April 20, 1399.]

THE GA R DE NE B S ' GHRO NI C L E.

2(57

event that recently occurred in the family of Lord
Rcwebery. The names of the bride suggested the
employment of the Primroses, and of Marguerites.
The ceremony took place on the day succeeding
that commemorative of the death of Lord Be acons-
F[ELD, or the display of Primroses might have been
even greater. During the same week, wejread
there was a wedding in a pretty little Cotswofi
village, the bride's name being Bkoom, and that
of the bridegroom Woodkokfe. Therefore the
bridesmaids' bouquets were composed of Broom
and Woodruff (Asperula). In many cases such a
practise may have pleasurable results, but it will bo
interesting to see when Mr. Leek or Miss Onions
takes a similar step, if the blooms of the fragrant
Allium will be given distinction in the same way.
It would be best after all to avail ourselves of the

hawks, owls, and other carnivorous birds has
helped the sparrows to attain their present numbers,
and is all in favour of sparrow-clubs and of artful
traps, though with some inconsistency he objects
to poison as being a "cowardly, painful, and
treacherous mode of removing them, which does not
commend itself to my consideration, although I con-
fess to drawing a hard and fast line respecting
cockroaches and blackbeetles, which can only
be exterminated by the continuous use of phos-
phorus paste." As appendix to the book is included
a pamphlet by Miss Eleakor Ormeroo and W. B.
Tegetmkih:, reprinted from the Journal oj tin-
Royal Horticultural Society.

Publications Received. "■ ' '.April,

iog ii. -Irs, papers on " I'lmlroliiniu x AraswoL'thi as .t
Wild Plant," V ling Orchids, Spontaneous hybrids of I Ij

table Drugs," bj i. II. Maiden ; " The Orange," W. .1. Allen ;
" Mm on Budding," F. J. Ellis; and "Preventatives for

Si nut. On. YiiMrr.-- in, nii/nnm' ) nal, Cape of Good Bopet

Marsh 16 tardt n«, for 1898. The

Curator, Mr. J, Medley W 1, reports " in all respects ;i most

successful season." New fork Agricultural Experiment
Station, Geneva.— Bulletin N'n. \\«. 1, Raspberry Baw-fly;
2, Preu'nii on the Grape-vine flea-beetle; No. 151,

i ments in ringing Grape-vines ; No. 152, Two Destruc-

tive Orchard Insects; x<>. 153, Director's Report for 1898;

No. 154, Commercial Fertilisers fin Potatos.— Pi eedingsoj

l ' Part ill.,
September to December. Meeh oi Monthly, April, with article

anil col >-'! plate of Bolidago nemoralis, "Grove Golden-

rod." — Botanieal Magazine, T< ' po, Feb] uary 20. — Botanischcs
Ccnlrulblatt, No. 16.— Botanisclu Zeitnng, April 14.— Hand-
ouch di r Botanik (Breslau).— JHctitnnairi Prat
lure, Llvraisons T9, 80, and 81.— LUte Ginirali des Membresdi

la Sociiti Natumali d'Uorticullun A !• (Paris), April l.

VltalUi Agrkol a, April 15. — Westn.il

(St. Petei b '' Voss Ffora, Part XIX. , of this

Fig. 99. — a be bpilqbium angustifolu >> n Holland house, see \xtk, p.

prettiest and moat useful tloweis obtainable when
decorations are needed, regardless altogether of I lie
imagined significance of their appellations.

"The House -Sparrow. "-W. 15. Teget-
meier, F.Z.S. (Vinton & Co., 9, New Bridge
Street, E.C.). — By everyone save a few senti-
mentalists, who have nothing to lose by him, the
house-sparrow is voted a pest. No careful observer
of his habits can spare a good word for him, while
traps and snares are devised to defeat even his
canning. The agriculturist bemoans his stolen
Wheat, the gardener complains that sparrows pick up
numerous seeds, and "devour many seedling plants
as fast as they emerge from the ground. In the
summer they devour our edible Peas, and where
they exist in large numbers they destroy the flower-
beds." Mr. Tegesmeier treats all said in the
defence of these birds with scorn. He thinks little
of the theory that the mischievous destruction of

Orchids; Nomenclature •■' Hard) Orchitis, and similar

subjeel ■ t Misci In] a a, Royal ■■

dens, ki'.v. Apjpendix iii., lsus. list of stall's in botanical
departments al homeland in India ami the colonies.— Fruit
Growers' Year Book, 1899 (Hatton 11 use, Great Queen Street,
W.C .). This includes an account of Coyent Garden, with

and description of its man: ;e nt. and fruit notes

from various countries. There an- also a useful calendar and
articles mi several fruits, i Growers' Association's

Year Bool: Under this somewhat awkward title are included
the fourth annual report (satisfactory ami progi
, -i , iallyas regards exported Narcissus and other flowers);
papers on the Arum, Chrysanthemum, and other horti-
cultural topics, ami some rules and tables. Bound up it) this

vi.it.' k are the Board of Agricultures pamphlets on the

Bain Owl, Diamond Black .Moth. Pear Midge, and Water
Wagtail; ami also the li^t of varieties of fruits, issued by the
Royal Horticultural Society. Th give greai value to the
publication.— Guern i This is set

Wednesday to tin- principal fruit -rowers ami farmers in the
Island, ami its contents are appropriate to its destination.—
Queensland Agricultural ' February

Gazette ■•]' N' "' South [Vales, vol v, part 2, Februarj 1899,
with papers on "Native Food Plants and Indigenous Vege-

i. date February, 1899. We liavi befori
remarked u] the excellence ol both letterpress and plates

ii Dr. Braithwaite, which render the volumes of

standard interest and value to bryologists.

THE GARDEN AT HOLLAND
H< >USE.

(Continmdfrom p. 225. )
The Water Garden. — This high - lying
estate is fortunate in having a spring of water
at its highest point, the flow from which
is allowed to collect in a pool, dug out and
hidden in a thicket. The water thus collected
is by certain ingenious contrivances led from
one part to another on the western side of
the north lawn, and supplies, in its course,
several square tanks raised above the ground-
level, and trickles in narrow channels lined

268

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 29 1899.

with pebbles from tank to tank, and the over-
flow from each runs to one at a lower level,
and finally reaches a rockery at the boundary of
the garden proper.

These overflow runnels afford sites at the
sides for numerous dwarf plants, such as
Sedges, exotic and native Iris, Cyperus,
Thymes, Bamboos, &c, which add greatly to
the interest of the garden. The moisture per-
colates to the right and left of these runnels,
and serves to maintain the turf and neighbour-
ing plants in fine condition in the driest years,
besides imparting humidity to the air.

The main features of the wild garden, apart
from the planting and arrangements found
alongside the water-channels, and around the
tanks, partake of the formal character of the
place, and are therefore quite in harmony with
the surroudings ; but inside these lines the
treatment exhibits considerable freedom. One
of the water-tanks previously mentioned is
planted with Zizania Indian Rice, and the
walls with species of Dianthus. The next tank
is planted similarly, but the walls are clothed
with dwarf species of Campanula, and Dianthus
Napoleon III., a variety raised by Mr. Forbes,
of Hawick, N.B., which grows and flowers
freely.

The third basin is filled with Marliac's Water
Lilies carnea, and others, which flower beau-
tifully ; and the wall is planted with Saxifragas.
Another tank is filled with Aponogeton dis-
tachyon, and the last piece of water that forms
a good sized pool is tilled with Marliac's
Nymph;eas, viz., purpurea, rosea, and carnea,
and N. odorata, and tuberosa ; and around the
edge are bunches of Cyperus longus, and various
Bamboos, B. Simoni having developed into a
mass ten feet through and as much in height.
Besides the Bamboos at this part of the grounds
a good collection of fine large plants is grown.

On a part of the rockery a trial is being made
of species of Opuntia that are likely to prove
hardy in this country, but this is only in the
experimental stage. Alpine and rock-plants are
largely employed along the watercourses, and on
an extensive rockery, and a considerable degree
of success has attended Mr. Dixon's efforts
(tig. 100). The remains of an ancient orchard
forms a feature in the grounds near the house,
the gnarled trunks and limbs and quaint contours
of the Apples affording capital contrasts to the
stately old Cedars of Lebanon now getting rather
bare, the Cupressus, Thuyas, and Planes.

The gardens are full of surprises, and we
meat them at every turn. Some portions have
not been altered or disturbed for a century or
more, and when at distant intervals some
alterations and additions have been made, they
have followed the formal lines of the old style.

A covered way, built with the southern
side open, and furnished with arches resting
on square pillars, runs part of the distance
from the mansion to the conservatory ; Ivy
clothes the pillars and hides, or was intended
to hide, the rather plain-looking brickwork.
This arcade forms a welcome retreat from a
sudden storm, and a cool resort on a hot day.
The conservatory, originally a coach-house,
was many years ago fitted with a glass roof in
places, and glazed doors and big windows. It
contains a number of aged Camellias, Oranges,
Indian Azaleas, Acacias, Oleanders, and others,
but it is ill-adapted foi the cultivation or
preservation of the flowering subjects. The
other glass structures are of old date, and
not very commodious or useful, according
to modern notions.

The oft-repeated statement that plants of

other climes, ami especially those which come
from the pure air of the Alps of Switzerland
and other mountanous regions, will not succeed
in London, will be taken with a certain amount
of incredulity by those who have scanned this
article and noted the great variety of tree and
shrub, herbaceous, perennial and alpine, which
not merely exist but grow with freedom in
this garden. Apropos of alpines, mention should
be made of Campanula Fosteri, which, when
sent over to Mr. Dixon by M. H. Correvon, of
the Jardin d'Acclimatation, Geneva, was stated
by the latter to be very unlikely to succeed at
Kensington, as it needed mountain air, together
with certain conditions not to be obtained
there ; yet this purely alpine plant is at this
date perfectly healthy, and it is making fair
growth.

The kitchen-garden, an apparently productive
piece of land, is situated on the western side of
the estate. Its vegetable quarters are bounded
by healthy espalier Pear and Apple-trees, of
remarkable height and breadth.

We may say, then, that the garden pleases
by what is reminiscent of other days, as well
as by what is of recent creation. And both the
old and the new are very different to the ordi-
nary run of private gardens, and on that
account delightful to the non-gardening visitor
and gardener alike. For ourselves, we look on
much of the gardening there as experimental,
and shall watch with interest the behaviour of
many of the plants growing in the open air.
That which will succeed at Kensington ought
to do so in most if not all of our parks and
public gardens.

Home Correspondence.

DOES PRIMULA SINENSIS CAUSE SKIN IRRITA-
TION ? — I have a Btaff of workmen who are
continually engaged u handling tins plant during
its season of growth ; and the foreman tells me
that though he has known no case of eczema being
caused thereby, yet a painful irritation is felt when,
for instance, a workman rubs his eyes with his
hands, and the smart will continue for some
quarter of an hour. This is especially the case
during hot weather, when the face is moist through
perspiration. Ernst Senary, Erfurt, Germany.

PRIMULA OBCONICA CAUSING IRRITATION.—
I am sorry to see so many complaints in the
Gardeners' Chronicle against wdiat I consider tlio
most useful of all Primulas, whether for the pro-
vision of flowers for cutting, or as pot plants. I
hear of gardens from which it has been banished,
not because it has affected any one, but because the
plant has now obtained a bad name. On the con-
trary, I have discarded all other Primulas in its
favour, and intend to grow it in increased quantity.
I have 200 plants this year, which are perfect
masses of flower and foliage. By selectiug and
crossing the best colours for some years, I have
now many beautiful shades of colour, and the plants
are of a {dwarf hahit. W. W., N.B. [A number
of blooms and foliage of P. obconica that accom-
panied the above note were wonderfully tine, the
size of blooms and of foliage being uncommonly
large. In colour, the flowers vary from what is
almost white to very deep rose — deeper than we
have previously seen these flowers. Nevertheless,
" \V. W.," we shall be inclined to exercise care iu
handling these glorious specimens. Ed.]

CHRYSANTHEMUM L. CANNING. — We are
sending a few blooms of this white Chrysanthe-
mum. We commenced to cut blooms (for sale) of
this excellent late variety last December, and have
had a constant supply from that date until
April 15. From 41)0 plants, in 6-inch pots, we
have cut 2200 line blooms. We take our cutliugs
of this variety in May, for if late blooms are
required the cuttings should not be struck early.
W. <i- J- Bron n, Nurserymen, Stamford and Peter-
boro. [The blooms sent with the above note are
fresh, and but partially expanded. En.].

VIOLET LADY HUME CAMPBELL. —Iu answer to
the enquiry in last week's issue, the above Violet
was brought by Lady Hume Campbell from Milan,
about 187S, and was exhibited by Mr. Brush at the
Royal Horticultural Society, in 1881, and sent out
by Mr. Charles Turner the same year. T.

I remember that this variety originated

with, or was first grown by Mr. Brush, who was
gardener to Lady Hume Campbell, Eastcote, near
Pinner. I think the stock of it passed into the
hands of Mr. C. Turner, wdio distributed it. There
is little if any difference between this and the
variety De Parme. C. //.

— I cannot give the parentage of tins splendid
Violet, because, since 1 took -charge of these
gardeus, I have not met Mr. Brush the gardener,
who. it is alleged, was the raiser of the variety.
I have no reason to doubt that it originated at
this place [?], and was named iu honour of his
employer, Lady Hume Campbell. F. Strong, Jr.,
Highgrove, Middlesex.

PROPAGATING VIOLETS. — I notice in the
•■Week's Woik," on p. 246. that Mr. Fielder
recommends a method which I disagree with, ft
is, I submit, better just before lifting for the
winter to take as many cuttings as one requires for
another season, and insert them in cold frames or
boxes in a compost of light saudy and leafy soil.
These cuttings will, if well looked after, make
excellent plauts for the following spring without
disturbing the old clumps in the frames, which
must be more or less exhausted with flowering, and
cannot compare with the plauts raised from cuttings
by my method. No one need fear that they will
not grow large enough, for they both make larger
clumps and produce better blooms, and are not so
liable to attacks of red-spider, or to die oil", as the
others. I have, now, two three-light frames of
Lady Hume Campbell, which are a mass of blossoms
which it would be a great pity to disturb when one
can get such good results in the manner named.
F. Strong, gr., Highgrove, Middlesex.

BIRDS AND FRUIT TREES.— I agree with most
of that which Mr. C. Herriu wrote on p. 246,
but from personal observation I do not think tom-
tits destroy fruit-buds, as on more than one occasion,
wheu waiting under Apple trees with a gun for
bullfinches, 1 have noticed torn-tits settle over my
head, open the buds and examine them for insects,
and also in Pear trees, but in no case could I dis-
cover that the tom-tits had destroyed the bloom-
buds. I know to my co=t iu some seasons that
they are partial ta bite Pen, and have the mis-
chievous habit of pecking the stalk-ends of Pears,
but iu the matter of fruit-bads I think they are
often blamed for the damage done by the fruit-
grower's worst enemy, the bullfinch. We know
that insects are the natural food of the tits, and iu
times of insect scarcity a few pounds of suet sus-
pended in various parts of a garden will keep
tom-tits from doing harm to the fruit-bloisoins.
/.'. J/., Newbury.

FERN STEALING. —I enclose you a full report of
an important case tried at our County Court,
Friday, 21st inst.,in which London Fern-collectors
were convicted (see p. 271 iu present issue). By
one report, Love is shown lo have beeu fined £.">
and costs ; and by another, mulcted in that sum or
the alternative of two months imprisonment with
hard labour. There has been much grumbling ia
this county lately at the depredations of these
Fern-collectors, and any further cases will, I hear,
be dealt with pretty severely. These vagrant
collectors know the popular sorts of Ferns, and,
passiug over the common kinds, take the more
marketable aud rarer sorts found in our lanes and
on our hills. The slopes of the Haldon range were
and are still faiily rich in Ferns, and so are some
of our woody glens and commons uear the valley of
the Otter and uear Exeter, but this wholesale
plundering is much impoverishing them. Andrew
Hope, Exeter.

MARECHAL NIEL ROSE.— While carefully read-
ing the thoughtful and interesting uotes of Mr.
William Earley and "A. 1). " (p. 220, Gardeners'
Chronicle), yesterday I received the following note
from Mr. Todd, the art Horist of Maitland Street,
Edinburgh, who has probably haudled as many
Marcchal Niels and other Roses as any other living
mau : — "It occurs to me," writes Mr. Todd,
" that you would be interested to know that the
finest Niels ever offered for sale in Edinburgh

April 2P, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

269

Market liave beeu there for the past two Saturdays.
They are grown by Mr. Turner, who holds the
gardens of Dalhousie Gardens as a market-garden.
The Niels are on their own roots ; and for foliage,
substance of bloom, richness of colouring, and
strength of stem, would not be easily beaten."
This is not merely a plant with an odd
bloom or two, but from one large plant and
two smaller ones. Mr. Turner has cut during
the last ten days some 700, and there are
plenty more to come. Mr. Todd also mentions that
many years ago, his father grew a large plant of
Marecbal Niel that got latterly on its own roots
when the stock failed, and produced tine crops
year after year. I have also handled good Mareehals
on their own roots, and have seen magnificent
examples in Herts, Cambridge, Middlesex, and
other counties. I have been to see some of the

the gardener's vocation by the excise laws, which
regard the gardener as a mere luxury for the
wealthy, and not as au ordinary worker seeking a
livelihood. Of course, it is answered, that if gar-
deners can ouly be kept when a license-duty is paid
for them, it cannot affect the worker, because the
employer has to pay the tax ; but the gardener
may well ask why out of the myriads of vocations
of au essentially industrious and productive nature,
he should be singled out for taxation ? Engineers,
clerks, foremen, carpenters, bricklayers, and
millious of other workers whose wages exceed those
of the gardener three, four, or five times in amount,
are non-licensed. Is not the gardener as much a
producer and a necessity in our midst as is any one
otherwise occupied? Is not this license-duty a tax
on labour, and if paid by the employer, does it not
serve to check employment, because the employer

cause no surprise that one outcome of the recent
Narcissus show at Birmingham may be the estab-
lishment of a Daffodil society, with I'.irmingham
for its centre. At that exhibition Narcissus culti-
vators were present from diverse parts of the
country, and at a dinner held at the Midland
Hotel on the evening of the first day, an opinion
was generally expressed not only that it would be
a proper step to form such a society, but also to
have in connection with it a journal, monthly or
otherwise, in the interest of the Narcissus.
Instances were given of the misconceptions regard-
ing the treatment of the Daffodil by persons who
make an attempt to grow it, and it was thought
that a journal conducted by soaie competent
authority would be of great service. Whether
both or either of these propositions are likely to
become actualities, remains to be seen. D.

Fig. 100. — the rock • gardes, Holland house, (see p. 26S.)

Dalhousie Roses to-day and find them all that Mr.
Todd describes in his note before me. Growing
the Maivehal Niel Rose on its own roots, does not,
however, wholly avert the unwholesome swelling,
though it goes a long way towards curing their
next most persistent fault, the drooping of the
blooms. I can hardly recall a case iu which own-
rooted ^."iels did not stand up more strongly iu
consequence, for the flower-shoots on own-rooted
Niels are longer as well as stronger than those of
worked plants. Possibly a liberal thiuning of the
flower-buds might strengthen as well as lengthen
the flower-stems, as well as help to cure the swelling.
Doubtless very many market-growers of M. Neil,
will ask with Mr. Todd, why all this difficulty as
to the most suitable stock if this success cau be
obtained without a stock at all. D. T. Fish.

THE TAXATION OF GARDENERS.— Mr. Treeby's
case, referred to so fully in the Gardeners' Chronicle
recently, has, because of the wide publicity given
to it, helped to draw attention to the harm done to

finds or regards licences of this nature as specially
onerous and deterring? We are so apt to accept
what is, and to lightly regard the evil that it
may be doing. Surely we have iu the kingdom no
occupation that is more useful, more worthy of all
encouragement, than is that of the gardener. Yet
we have for years submitted to the imposition on
the gardener aud his labour of a tax that is a direct
impost on labour. Ought not gardening to be
relieved from this burthen and stigma? It is most
oppressive on the best traiued element in horticul-
ture, whilst the mere labourer escapes. In reference
to Mr. Treeby's case, I could but think what would
happen if he tried to get over the Inland lievenue
Department by sending one man half a week to Mr.
Estcourt's garden, and a second man the other
half. [Or he might send a man for five and a half
days only.] How would the case stand then? A. D.

A NARCISSUS SOCIETY.— It is now the custom
to establish a society to promote the culture aud
exhibition of a particular flower, and so it need

CAMELLIAS iSee also p. 'Jo':?). — In reply to your
correspondent, "R. C," in last week's issue of
the Garth ners' OhronicU , I may say that it is
generally recommended to repot Camellias in the
autumn, after the flower-buds have set, affordiug
a small shift, and a soil consisting of fibrous
loam, with the addition of a small quantity of
peat and sand, aud pruning to take place in the
spring, cutting away any weak and sappy growth,
aud stopping any shoots not required for exten-
sion, according to the shape of plant it is desired
to grow. 1 believe most varieties succeed
equally well, either in pots or on a border.
There are gardeners whose methods differ from
mine. E. H. 8.

ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND.— When all
is said and done, I imagine uo practical amendment
of any faults there may he in connection with voting
for candidates is likely to be made as long as human
nature is what it is. Little or no fault can be
found with the rules or the management. What

270

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April '20, 1899.

is faulty, is that subscribers, when they vote,
forget the benevolent intentions of the fund,
and allow interests and influence to hold sway.
And has it not always been the same in connection
with the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Society?
As I take it, filling up these votiug-papers is a
most responsible undertaking, and we are in
duty bound to weigh well the many calls for help,
and to vote ou the merits of the candidates only.
Is thiB always done? Do not trade influences,
personal friendships, and the like, too frequently
influence votes, and the election of candidates ?
What may be termed the minority clause, or
cumulative annual votes, registered in favour of
candidates who are not successful, seem to be the
only hope of those candidates who have only the
merits of their cases to depend upon. My only
doubt when I moved and carried on the G. E. 13. 1.
committee the clause that gardeners in receipt of
£30 per annum should be eligible was, whether
it were not better to maintain the original limit
of £20, so that the poorer they were, the more
the benefit was needed, and would be appreciated.
William Earl y. [If the committee made the selec-
tion of the candidates, and left the members to
ratify the selection, or to propose other candidates,
much trouble, expense, and needless anxiety would
be spared. Ed.]

SPARROWS, SHREW-MICE, AND CARNATIONS.—
I can quite confirm that the sparrows are the mis-
creants that iujure the Carnaticns. I have seen
them doing it. A few years ago the leaves were
eaten off in a much neater fashion by a shrew-
mouse. In that case the leaves were cut off short
by the sharp teeth of the animal, but the ends of
the leaves injured by sparrows are smashed by
their beaks like the end of a cooked Asparagus that
has been sucked. I find they do it whenever the
temperature is colder. It almost certainly indi-
cates a frost or a cold spell ; I presume under these
conditions the foliage becomes sweet. Polyan-
thuses and Primroses, I notice, are chiefly bitten
off on the shady side of the garden, or from
weak plants. Those in full sun and flourishing are
rarely touched. Black thread over the plants is
the only protection I find of any use ; the birds
catch their wings in it, and arc apparently afraid of
not getting away in time. For the Carnation, soot
is certainly useful till washed off, and is good for
the health of the plants when that happens. E. M. H.
[Campanula muralis and Agrostemma Flors Jovis
have been terribly mauled by the sparrows this year ;
perhaps pigeons aided in the destruction. El).].

WINTER SALADS. — I am situate only about 5
miles from Sidmoutb, where your correspondent,
Mr. Milne-Redhead, obtained such poor salads
towards the end of February. With a good supply
of Hick's Hardy White Cos, and All-the-year-
round Cabbage Lettuce, from seeds sown in the
third week in July, and again a month later, arid
which we plant out in an open spot, I can obtain
in four seasons out of five good heads of Lettuce
well into December. I have raised a good number
of the Cabbage variety that had well-formed heads
at the end of October, when they were planted in
cold, freely-ventilated pits, and placed as near the
glass as possible, but the results have not been
satisfactory. Such plants soon decay, or, failing
this, make elongated stalks, which render them
unfit for the salad-bowl. Time back I have made
a hot-bed of leaves and stable-dung early in
January, and placed 1 foot of soil thereon, and
wheu 1 found the heat declining have planted a
good batch of Cabbage Lettuces, that had been
standing at the foot of a south or west wall. They
were planted thickly, and were only covered at
night or during rain. From such plants I liave cut
faiily good heads early in March, but this method
necessitates much labour, and is seldom adopted.
We are never able Incut a moderately good Lettuce
from the open until the first week iu April, when
Lee's Hardy Green or Hammersmith may possibly
be had, followed by Hick's Hardy White Cos, a
capital Lettuce for use early iu May, and for
standing through the winter in Devon. J. Maynt,
Bicton.

All of the correspondents who have written

of winter salads omit one useful addition to the
s.ilad-bowl, viz., Corn Salad, or Lamb's Lettuce.
This plant is much appreciated by those who
like salads as they are served on the Continent.
Seeds should be sown iu mid -autumn, and when
the ground is uot too dry ; and two or three
sowings made at intervals will afford a sufficient

supply till Lettuces are ready for consumption
in the spring. The Cos Lettuces are all of them
very unsatisfactory wheu forced in frames, and iu
the open I find it is useless to attempt to grow
them even in South Devon, some 12 miles distant
from Sidmouth, unless planted in a single row,
close to the walls of forcing-pita, or any warm-house.
Lettuces for winter should be grown in frames,
placed ou a mild hot bed of leaves and stable-litter,
and from the time of planting until the Lettuces
are ready to cut a very small amount of air should
be admitted to them. The best variety for this
season, and the quickest to turn in, is Vcitch's
Golden Queen, which is a compact head, of a pale
yellow colour. T. IT. Slade, Poltimore Oardt n».

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.
Preset: Dr. M. T. Masters (in the Chair); Mr. II. Selfe
Leonard, Rev. W. Wilks, Mr. Ehvi<s, and Rev. G. Henslow,
Hon. Secretary.

Alpine Auriculas, Mildevvd.—A plant was received from
Rev. C. Wollcy.l>i»l infected by a fungus. It was forwarded
to Dr. W. G. Smith for examination.

Apple-wood, Diseased.— Some specimens received from Mr.
Basham were also sent t" Dr. Smith,

Germination of Daphne Mezeream,— Mr. Elwen described
some curious differences between the germination of some
this shrub, in which the plumule grew up normally
round"; while in others, from some unaccountable
cause, it appeared i<> be arrested for a long period before
appearing, although it'') sent down roots underground in
the usual way.

Hyacinth Stem and leaf Groioimo Downwards.— Mr. Hens-
low showed a plant, the bulb of which had been accidentally
inserted upside down. The roots had grown normally down-
wards; but tie' shoot, instead of turning upward towards
the light, had also grown vi rtieaUy downwards, the greatest
, :,. i , ol growth i» "i : al the base of the leaves. It subse-
quently elevated (lie bulb into the air, rem 01 m- all the roots

from the soil, and continued to grow solely at tl vi

the nourishment contained in the bulb. The flower-stalk,
closely invested by the leai as, was 7 inches in length.

Carnations atlached >'</ Aeana.— -Mr. Michael reported upon
the specimens sent to tie- last meeting as follows:— "The
Carnation pest is a Tarsonynms. All this genus are destruc-
tive and difficult I" eradicate, in consequei of their bat

and stalk-mining bain'-.
;,,-., ,. | Dr. W. ib Smith, Leeds reports as

follows :-" On the Carnal inns si m • • of the fungi usually

present was found, e.g., rust, leaf-spot, fairy ring-spot. The
symptoms presented are those of the disease known as
■ bacteriosis.' This is the name given by Arthur and Bollej
(Purdue Univ. Agric. Exp. Station, Bulletin 59, 1896), because
they ascribed the disease to the aeiion of a Bacterium
(B.'diauthi). Tley were abb' to infect healthy plants with

cultures from diseased si miens. A Belgian investigator,

Paul Nypels, published in 1S9S {Notes Pathologiques), some

observations on the disease, which point, to sol ither

ngent than bacteria as the primary cause. Other workers
also hold this view. The disease is well known, and
very destructive in tin indoor cultivation of Carnations
in the United States and in Belgium. The conditions
favourable to it are overcrowding, defective ventilation, and
the effect of moisture on tie- foliage, due to overhead watering.
Prevention is evident, except for the last item mentioned ;
but overhead watering must be reduced as much as possible.
The structure i f the Carnation-leaf indicates a plant suited to

a dry open situati lib-' our native Dianthus, on n>ebs. old

walls, and open pastures, (n indoor cultivatio ians must

De adopted to prevent too frequent wettino of the foliage.

Tibs has been d ■ by si growers in America, as described

by Arthur and Bollej Pieces of wire-netting bent into a a
shape are placed between the rows of plants, so as to keep
I he Inner leaves Clear ol the stages. The water is then applied
b) means el a hose directed into the A, and the water is dis-

| i 1 to the roots by a nozzle, delivering on both sides.

Arthur and Bolley give illustrations in paper sent herewith.
The method has been successful against this and other
disea sea of indoor Carnations. Where this disease has already
shown itself, it oiaj be checked by spraying the foliage with
Bordeaux Mixture. "

I Malformed.— Mr. G. Wythes, of Syon House, sent

branches of Vines with malformed flowering bunches,
supposed to be due to fog, but they presented a not un-
common condition of being tendrils bearing abortive buds.
As Darwin, and many others before him, point out, Vine
tendrils are. homologous with flowering shoots, and such
transitional states between simple tendrils and bud-bearing
ones occur on all Vines, and have nothing to do with external
climatic conditions.

Effect of Lightning on an Oak.— A specimen received from
Dr. Plow-right, of Lynn, showed ho«i Oak-wood is sometimes
torn into longitudinal fibres by electricity. "The trunk
from which this specimen was taken was that, of a tree grown
in East Auglia, and purchased for timber by a timber-

merchant in King's Lynn, from whose wood-yard it was
obtained. The amount of injury was comparatively slight,
consisting only of a groove cut from top to bottom of the
trunk, about 2 inches wide, and extending only a very short
distance into the woody tissues, but tearing them up longitu-
dinally into strips several feet iu length."

Witches' Broom on a Scotch, Fir. — This was received from Dr.
Plowright, who writes :—" The specimen is sent by Hamon
L'Estrange, Esq., and was found growing upon one of the
Fir-trees in his park at Hunstanton Hall, Norfolk. It eon.
sists of a mass of hypertrophied ' dormant buds,' measuring a
metre in circumference round its widest part, and weighs
21 kilogrammes. It is borne upon a branch which shows
eight angular rings, and springs from a lateral shoot. It is
interesting to observe that this shoot is itself hypertrophied,
as compared with the corresponding one on the opposite side
of the branch, but that this hypertrophy only extends as far
as the growth, beyond which it is atrophied and dead. The
growth itself consists of seven or eight rounded masses, com
posed of aborted shoots — partially developed buds closely
aggregated. The masses are of varying ages, some hearing
green leaves, while others are quite dry ami dead." The
Origin is supposed, in some eases, to be due to the attack of a
PhytoptuSj in others to a fungus, .Ecidium.

Malformed ]:u!i>i"i+ Plants.— A quantity of decayed and
arrested bulbous plants were received, both from St. John's
Wood Cemetery, Marylebone, and from Lincoln's Inn Fields.
Both cases illustrated the effect of premature growth from the
very mild winter, followed by severe cheek during the week
of frost, and subsequently by excessive wet. Mr. Henslow
observed that on the high ground and clay soil of Holland
Park, bulbs have come up exceedingly well, having been
planted in September.

Apple Trees affected by Grubs.— Specimens received, from
the Chiswiek Gardens wen; referred to Mr. McLacldan, who
his reported as follows : — " The larvie iu the Apple-twigs are
no doubt those ofLaverna vinolentella, which was formerly
considered a variety of L. atra (the larva of which feeds on
the fruit of Hawthorn), but is now regarded as distinct 1 am
not aware (.hat it has ever been found sufficiently common to

0 cap sen mis damage : betas the egg is, no doubt, laid in

or on a laid, ami the depredation primarily confined to the
bud, it is i v ident thai the question of serious damage is only
one of decree,

Odonlogl tm.-rDr. Masters exhibiteda spray on

which every flower had three, and sometimes four, stamens
instead of on 1I3 . It was received from Mr. Young.

Jatropha podagrica. — This scarlet-flowered species was
awardeda Botanical Certificate. It is a well-known plant in

botanical gardens.

MIDLAND DAFFODIL.

April 1.3, 14. — There were exhibitors from all parts of the

country ; rreland sent line contributions. The Bhow-house of
the Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, was taxed I" the utmost
to provide the necessary space,

lint i>!i'' collection of not fewer than lifLy varieties competed
fur the Silver Daffodil Cap, given by Messrs. Barr & Son, it
came from the Rev. J. Jac >ns, WhitoweU Rectory, Whit-
church, Salop.

There were three competitors in the. class for twelve vai if
ties of true Trumpet Daffodils, Mr. W. J. Grant, Bassaleg,
Newport, Man., taking the 1st prize with v^ry good blooms.

There were thirteen stands of six distinct varieties. Mr.
J. C. Wn.i.i vms, Caerhays, Stansted, whs 1st, having very
line examples of Victoria, Glory of Loyden, Emperor, Wear-
dale Perfection, Horsefieldi, and Madame de Graalf.

With twelve distinct varieties of Medio coronate Daffodils,
MissCtJRREY was placed 1st with finely-developed blooms of
Barri conspicuus, bulworth, pure while perianth, with a
brighl orange cup; Queen Sophia, Duchess of Westminster,
Madame M. de Grain*, and Commander. There were nine
competitors, with si\ varieties, Mr. J. C. Williams taking the
1st prize with Sea Gull, White Lady, Albatross, Dorothy
York, and seedlings, all very good.

The Parvi coronate Daffodils "ere also very good, and com-
prised varieties from two sections, vi/,, Burbidgei and
Poeticus. Mr. W. .!. Grant was 1st with twelve, having
excellent examples ol Falslail, Constance, Prsecox grandi-
llorus, Baroness He ith, angustifolius, Princess Louise, Arc.

Mr. P. D. Williams was lsf out of nine competitors, with
six varieties, having in line form John Pain, Ornatus
Beatrice Hesseltine, and seedlings.

HAFFODILS IX POT3.

By way of giving additional interest to the show, there
were classes for Daffodils grown inputs, in that for twelve
varieties, Mr. R. Sydenham took the 1st prize for finely-
grown and flowered plants of leading varieties; ami Mr. K. C.
Cartwriobt for six pots. Theic were classes also for Poly-
anthus Narcissi iu pots, finely-grown and flowered specimens
being staged.

There were two classes tor Daffodils as well as Polyanthus
Narcissi grown in bowls with cocoa-fibre, all well done, and
proving what fine blooms can be obtained in this way.

TULIPS.
A class for six pots of early .single Tulips wfts a very attrac-
tive feature. Mr. R. Sydenham was 1st, staging finely-grown
and flowered varieties, such as Van Spoendock, Unit pie,
Prince of Austria, Proserpine broken, .See. Tulips were also

shown in bunches.

There were classes for Cinerarias, herbaceous Calceolarias,
Lily of the Valley. Lilium Ilanisii, and Cyclamen,

April 2'J, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

271

Of seedliujj Narcissus, Certincates of Merit were awarded to
Parvi coronate, Incognita, white jierianth, with large, deep
golden Clip, edged with red ; Edmonds white Medio-euronate,
white, with sulphur cup; Firebrand Parvi-coronate, white,
with orange-scarlet cup or a brilliant colour, from the Rev.
0. H. Esgi-eheart. To Trumpet variety Duchess of B
from Messrs. Baku & Sons, King Street, Covenl Garden;
an. I to Messrs. Pope & Son, nurserymen, Birmingham, for
Pope's King, a fine deep golden vfti iety, regarded as a distinct
Improvement upon Golden Spur.

Collections of Daffodils in greal variety were staged by
l; 11. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech; -Messrs. Bum & Sons; Messrs.
Hoou A Robertson, Dublin, who had in addition a large and
Interesting collection of tulips; T. S. Ware, I.th. Totten-
ham; and R. Sydensah. Messrs. Hewitt 4 Co., Solihull,
had charming decorations in Daffodils : and Messrs. Sampson
,\ in., Florists, Birmingham, a collection of cut Daffodils.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

Ai'hil 13.— At a meeting held on the above date, there were
present G. Shorland Hull, Esq.. (in the chair), and Messrs.

W. Thompson, O. W. Law-Schofleld, II. G nwood, P.

Weathers, .1. Cypher, \V. Holmes, W. Stevens, 1!. Johnson,
and T. Wills (Hon. Sec).

Thomas Statteb, Esq., Whitefield (gr., Mr. Johnson),
showed among other plants Cattleya intermedia alba (First-
class Certificate), and Cypripedium Godefroya Veitchi
(Award of Merit).

Simi. Gratrix, Esq., Whalley Bange (gr., Mr. McLeod),
showed Dendrobium Wardianum Gratrixi (First-class Certitl-
cate), Dendrobium Falconerl giganteum (Award of Merit),
Lrvlio-Cattleya Hon. Mis. Astor (Award of Merit), Cypripe-
dimn insigne, Harefield Hall variety (Fust-class Ccrtil
in. i i idontoglossum triumphana (Award of Merii I,

.Ti.hn i.ki.maxs, Esq., Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr. Edge),
showed Cattleya Lawrenceana (Award of Merit), Odontoglos
sum crispum (Award of Menu, a Cypripedium hybrid from

boilatUlUin, and some other species (Fust-class Cert ill' a!. ).

Dr. E. J. Sidebotham, Bowdon (gr., Mr. Shiner), was
awarded a First-class Certificate for Cypripedium caudatuin
Wallisii.

llv. Greenwood, Esq., Haslingden(gr., Mr. Gill), showed
Odontoglossum Humeanum, II. Greenwood's variety (Award
nl' Menu, ii. uebulosum I Award of Merit), Dendrobium Clytii
(I'lmllayaiiiiiii > Leechianuui) (Award of Merit), II. noliile
nivalis ; D. n. Highficld variety (Award of Merit),

I). O. Wejoley, Esq., Bury(gr., Mr, Rogers), showed Cypri-
pedium Argus Moenste (Award of Merit). C. villosum aureum

mognificum (Award of Merit), Dendrobium nobile bj letry

(Award of Merit), Cypripedium Mastersiamtm superbum
(Award it Merit), and other plants.

Mrs. Unions, Bury, Aeeiingtor. (gr., Mr. Wilkinson), ob-
tained an Award of Merit for an Odontoglossum hybrid.

J. Charlton Parr, Esq., Warrington (gr., Mr. Mnsterton),
showed a collection of cut blooms, for which he was awarded
a Cultural Certificate.

Edward Holt, Esq., Piestwich (gr., Mr. Murphy), reci ived
a Vote of Thanks also for cut blooms.

Captain J. Barlow showed Chysis bractescens (First-class
Certificate and Cultural certificate).

Mr. James Cypher, Cheltenham, showed Cypripedium
Winifred Hollington (Award of Merit); C niveumgrandinorum
(Award of Merit) ; Odontoglossum Rossii Amesianum (Award
nf Merit); Fa-liii-Cattleya Highburyensis (Award of Merit);
and Eriideudeudruin bicornutum (First-class Certificate).

Messrs. F. Sander & Co , St. Albans, showed Cypripedium
X ciholare x niveum (Award of Merit).

The Gcildford Hardy Plant Nursery Co., had a basket
of pretty, small-growing species of Primulas, bedded in
Sempervivum and loekwork. It was a meritorious object-
lesson in arrangement.

Messrs. Geo. Jaokman & S"s, Wo king, had in a large col-
lection of plants, a panel or var 9 double Primroses, and also

collections of single Primroses and Polyanthus, with varieties
of P. Sieboldi.

Messrs. Collins Bros. * Gabriel, florists, Hampton,
staged a large and varied collection of Polyanthus in pots,
which formed an attractive feature.

If a supplemental Auricula show-could be held on Maj J.
a very tine display would be forthcoming, as the main of the
Auriculas will then be at then I. st. The date was too early
this year, the spring being so retarding, but the wisest among
us cannot possibly foretell the character of the weal her in the
changeful month of April.

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY HOR-
TICULTURAL.

Atril 18. — On the above date a lecture on " Daffodils" was
delivered by Mr. s. Arsott, Carsethorn, who briefly sketched
the history of the Daffodil, discussed its cultivation, and also
gave detailed descriptions of the principal representatives of
the different groups.

There was a large collection of Daffodils and other spring
flowers, including Orchids, from various growers. Owing to
the unfavourable weather, the local growers were not so well
represented as they otherwise would have been. Those
showing flowers were as follows : — Messrs. Ban' & Sous,
London; Messrs. Hogg & Robertson. Dublin; Messrs. Smith
& i'o., Worcester; Messrs. Kerr Bros., Dumfries ; Mr. James
Service, Maxwelltown; Mr. James Davidson of Summer-
ville, Maxwelltown (gr., Mr. W. Caldow) ; Mr. John Primrose,
Aruuel House, Maxwelltown (gr., Mr. Jas. Allan) ; Mr. Gal-
braith. Terregles (gr., Mr. -I. MeKinnon; Mr. W. Boyd,
Melrose; and Mr. s. Arnott, Carsethorn. A large consign-
ment from Mr. W. B. llartlanil, Cork, arrived ton early for
use.

NATIONAL AURICULA & PRIMULA.

Apkil 18 {Continued f,-<>m p. 256).
Of Miscellaneous exhibits partaking of the character of the
show, Mr. J. H. Arkwrioht's graml yellow Primrose, Evelyn
Arkwri^ht, appeared to l>e liner than ever. It is evidently
cultivated in a manner that brings out in the highest degree
the possibilities of this tine variety. Mr. J. C Arkwiight, also
hailing from Hamilton Court, Leominster, had a collection of
Primulas of various types. Species of Auriculas, Polyanthus,
Primroses, &C,

CHESTERFIELD AND DISTRICT
CHRYSANTHEMUM.

April 19.— The fifth annual show of spring Hov
connection with the abov< Soci washeld in the grounds
of Whittingtbn Hall,

Fouj tastefully-arranged groups, < .<■ Ii about LOO squar- fei I .

:upicd tl"' centre of the tent, Hi-' exhibitors being Mr.

Nelson, gr. to A. Barnes, Esq., AshgateLodge ; Mi. Horsnall,
gr. to J. E. Clayton, Bsq., Thorntteld ; Mr. Bloxham, gr, lo
R. F. Mills, Bsq., Tapton Grovi ; and Mr. Jenklnson, gr. to
Mrs. Burkitt, Stubbing Court,

Mr. Nelson had excellent I >*it- ■ li t^ in p ■.-, also Staphylea
colchica, (..'annas, Azaleas, &c,

Owing to the extreme lateness "i 'he season] the display of
hardy flowers was disapp liul

Mr. Nelson was successful w itli Hyacinths, \ ileas, Palms,
greenhouse and stov< flowers, an i i xhibited a well-grown and
ilnelj flowered plant of Dendrobium thyrslflorum, whieh was
gri atly admired,

Messrs, Proctor & Sons, Chesterfield, made an attractive
display of Boronias Ericas, i Roses, and Hydran fea

Hortciisia. Mrs. Shentah showed a flue colltction of
Narcissus

Law Notes.

PROSECUTION OF FERN COLLECTORS.
Proceedings at Exeter.

At the Castle of Exeter, April '21, before Mr.
E. F. Studd (in the chair) aud Sir Robert Newman,
.lack Sanders, alias Smith, of no fixed abode, was
charged with having, on March '29, done wilful
damage to certain real property at Kenn, to the
extent of Is. OV., the property of Mr. J. H. Ley.
George Adams aud Jack Sanders were jointly
charged with wilfully damaging certain property at
Haldon on the 30th of last month, the property of
Mr. Short. Thomas Love, general dealer, of Covent
Garden, was summoned for aiding aud abetting
the two former defeudauts to commit the said
damage within the last six months. Adams aud
Sanders appeared in the custody of two warders,
they being undergoing a term of imprisonment for
a like offence iu Dorset. Mr. Baker (Messrs. Dunn
& Baker) appeared for Love, who pleaded not
guilty.

Henry Palmer, bailiff, said that on the day iu
question he was in a wood at Keun, near Hound
Hole. He there saw the two men digging Ferns.
They had a mattock aud trowel with them. There
was ahorse and cart there which bore the name of
T. Love, but he could not say what the address was.

P.-C. Ridlersaidon Thursday, March 30, he was
on duty at Haldon, where he saw Adams aud
Smith, who gave the names of T. Love aud Jack
Sanders. The men were then on Mr. Ley's estate.
Witness saw Adams pulling up the Ferns, aud
Smith was putting them in a bag. Witness
followed them up the road, aud saw they had a
pony and cart there, which bore the name of
T. Love. There were about seventy or eighty roots
in the bag.

Thomas Love, general dealer was then put in the
witness-box, and stated that he lived at Battersea,
and carried ou business in Covent Garden. He
bought Ferns when they were brought to him. He
had Ferns from a lot of people, but never gave
instructions with reference to them, nor did he
know how the men obtained them. He had not
received a communication from Adams to say the
Ferns were comiug.

The Bench, after a short deliberation, addressing
George Adams, stated that he had been to prison
several times aud fined for similar offences, and he
was uow undergoing a term of imprisonment for a
like offence. He would lie sentenced to one month's
imprisonment for each offence, the sentence to run

concurrently. With regard to Jack Sanders, they
thought he was not so much to blame as Adams.
They thought ho had been led away by him, and
as he was undergoing a term of one month's im-
prisonment, he was sentenced to one week for each
offence. As to the case against Thomas Love, they
had not the slightest doubt from the evidence that
ho was guilty. A tine of £5 aud costs (I'll 18s.)
was imposed upon him.

@bituar«.

Mr. J. W. Chard.— The death of Mr. J. W.

Chard, at Clapham Common, on the '23rd ult., at
the age of seventy-five years, recalls to memory
oue who was a central figure at horticultural exhi-
bitions a generation ago, aud who was a worthy
member of the craft, able, manly, upright, and
courteous. Born in London in 1824, he began his
gardening career by being apprenticed to Mr.
Woodin, gardener to Sir George Robinson, But.,
Cranford Hall, Kettering, and after his term of
service there he went to the Pine apple Place Nur-
sery of Messrs. Arthur Henderson & Co., St. Johu's
Wood, who sent him as foreman to Mr. Dedmau,
gardener to Sir Samuel Scott, Bart., Sundridge
Park, Kent, and from there he went at twenty-
one years of age as gardener to Sir Frederick
Bathurst, Bart., Clarendon Park, Salisbury, where
he greatly distinguished himself as a cultivator and
exhibitor of specimen plauts, Ptoses, and table
decorations. In regard to the latter he displayed
a considerable amount of originality of design and
good taste, making his mark at the exhibitions of
the Royal Horticultural and the Royal Botanic
Societies, also at the Crystal Palace, the Agricul-
tural Hall, and the Alexandra Palace. He also
went further afield with his exhibits, aud scored
successes at Birmingham, Brighton, Bath, Exeter,
Weston-super-Mare, Tauutou, Trowbridge, Liver-
pool, &c. Of silver cups, gold and silver medals,
he won many, generally choosing plate in prefer-
ence to medals. His powers of endurance must
have been great, for there was scarcely a horticul-
tural exhibition of note but he was there competing.
For tho space of twenty-six years he was at
Clarendon Park, leaving there for the suburbs of
London, where he commenced the profession of a
landscape gardener, and was most successful in his
undertakings. Energetic to the last, ho may bo
said to have died at his post, for he was out among
his men the day before his death.

Always regarded as an honourable and pains-
taking judge, his services were iu considerable
request iu that capacity. He leaves a widow : and
his son, Mr. J. R. Chard, is widely known as a
floral decorator at Stoke Newington. This worthy
gardeuer was laid to rest on the 27th ult.

Enquiries.

Mr. Hksky Reii> enquires, "What would be
the result, if any, to stove and greenhouse plants,
Vines, &c. , growing iu a structure lighted by
electricity, supposing all the iron rods for opening
ventilators, &c, connected with the said structure,
were carrying the current." \\ 'ill some correspon-
dent kindly afford an answer to his enquiry.

Odd volumes or separate plates of the Botanical
Magazine or Botanical Registi r are required. Will
any reader who has such plates kindly communicate
with "Librarian,'' care of the editor of tho
Gardi tu re' Chronicle.

Answers to Correspondents

Basic-slag ant> Kainitas M inok.es t or Tomatos :
li. F. C. Such a slowly decaying phosphatic
manure as basic -slag is scarcely to be recom-
mended for a plant so short-lived as the Tomato,
aud as the manure is insoluble in water before
it decays, it is a wasteful practice to use it.
Bone-meal or bone-black are better fertilisers,
and good Peruvian guano best of all. Kaiuit
contains potash iu the form of sulphate, the aver-
age being 12\5 per cent, of actual potash, 23 per
cent, of the sulphate, and 33 per cent, of ordinary
salt. If its use is intended to benefit tho imme-
diate crop, it should be applied several works
before the crop is planted. Potash is a very suit-

272

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 29, 1899.

able manure for the Tomato-plant, especially the
late fruiters, which grow to a large size. One
application, together with farmyard dung, may
reach 2 oz. per square yard.
Books : E. J. Manuals ou Tomato and Cucumber
culture are to be purchased of Mr. Upcott Gill,
170, Strand. W.C. Select Ferns and Lycopods,
by 13. S. Williams, to be had at the Victoria
Nurseries, Upper Holloway. Mushrooms for the
Million, by J. Wright, published at the office of
the Journal of Horticulture, 12. Mitre Court
Chambers, Fleet Street, E.C.
Broad Beans: H. W. The seeds had been
inhabited by the grubs of the Bean-weevil
(Bruchus granarius), which feeding on the sub-
stance of the seeds had caused the malformation
of the cotyledons. The browning or rust noted,
is, we think, due to frost, and it affects only one
side of a plant, that was doubtless mo'e fully
exposed to the air-currents during the continu-
ance of the frost. You should examine your
seed-Beans, picking out all weevil-infested seeds,
and burning them forthwith. You will know
them by a small round hole observable in every
Bean containing a weevil-grub. The perfect
beetle is not found inside of the bean. The plants,
or the majority of them, will recover, and afford
a crop of pods. Let the rows be moulded up,
and, as the garden is a very draughty one, put
up some wind-breaks here and there between the
rows of Beans, &c , such as sheep-hurdles, ever-
green-branches, rows of closely set pea-sticks, &c.
Bcjvers ok Lily of the Valley and Roses :
W. G. li. We are unable to name any. You
might inquire of the chief florists in Covent
Garden ; or, what is better, advertise them to be
sent for cash to private customers, making use of
the parcel-post and railway facilities.
Heating Houses : Economist. A horticultural
builder or the boiler-maker might be able to
inform you of the probable quantity of coke
required for a year ; but we are unable to do so,
knowing nothing of the consumption of a Boulton
(t Paul boiler ; moreover, the quantity of fuel
burned would in a great measure depend on the
character of the winter and spring weather,
much less being necessary in mild oues than in
Beverej and on the stoking.
Hortii tltim: vl Press: Alpha. Appointments of
tins kind are not numerous, and vacancies do
not often occur. You could qualify yourself by
writing on matters you personally know some-
thing about, or by describing honestly and faith
fully what you see, and narrating truthfully
what you hear, that is of- horticultural interest.
If you send matter of this kind to an editor, it
is pretty sure to be accepted. Editors are
deluged witli " copy," but much of it is, from
one cause or another, declined. Your letter
shows that you write a good handwriting,
that you spell well, and express yourself clearly
— all points of great importance ; but you intro-
duce irrelevant matter, which, supposing it were
intended for publication, would be deleted by
the editor. We congratulate you on the results
of your examination, but no one would suppose,
as you seem to imply they would do, that, by
reason of your success in the examiuationroom,
you were competent to incur the responsibility of
undertaking the cultivation of tlie plants you wrote
about. For that, experience is needed, and you
cannot get that by passing an examiuation. You
ought, nevertheless, to gain your experience
more thoroughly, speedily, and easily, by having
previously been trained and taught what to see,
and to what subjects your attention should be
directed. We cannot answer your question as to
your chances in America, but we believe you
might, as you say, enter some of the classes at
Cornell or other Universities. Write and ask at
headquarters. We cannot answer your question
about county couueils, but again advise you to
apply at headquarters. In the meantime, secure
a reputation for diligence and character, and
make yourself as useful as you can to your supe-
riors. You will then benefit by the " influence "
they very properly exert. Scan the advertising
columns, and generally keep a good watch for
what may turn up. We have answered you at
some length, because the information you seek is
often wanted by others, to whom we cannot reply
individually.
Lilac : ,/. P. The variety brought from Paris
is Syringa japonica, a comparatively recent

introduction. Its flowers are white, and need
not therefore be forced in darkness to blanch
them. The other Lilacs enquired about are
Charles X. and the Marly varieties. Last year
was unfavourable to Lilacs on the continent,
the excessive drought rendering the growth very
slow and short, and many cultivators, noting
this, afforded the plants water too late, and for
too long a time, in late summer and autumn,
with the result that a second growth was made,
which in many instances failed to ripen, heuce
the fewness and small size of the blooms this
year. Lilacs can be grown in this country to
flower as well as those grown abroad if the right
kind of attention be afforded. Supposing the
plants bought in have been purposely grown for
flowering in pots, either forced or otherwise, they
should be planted out in May in a very warm
spot — a south border in the kitchen-garden is
the best in this country, the distance from plant
to plaut beiug from 2 to 3 feet, according to size,
no manure beiug employed if the land is in good
heart. The balls should be somewhat reduced
in size, and some small amount of root-pruning
performed, and the remaining roots outside the
ball laid iu the soil carefully, the latter being
firmly packed round about the sides of the ball.
The top of the ball need not be put deeper than
1 inch below the surface, and if a slight basin be
formed round each it will be all the better in case
water has to be applied. All weak wood must
be pruned off, and only strong wood allowed to
remain then, and during the summer, the object
being the production of six to eight good strong
flowering shoots of medium length. There must
be no stopping of the shoots intended to carry
bloom, and all stem-shoots and those coming from
the root must be suppressed. No inter-cropping
ought to be allowed, and also no mulching, but
the surface must be often hoed, so as to permit sun-
heat to enter the soil. Ordinarily, water is not
wanted after the tirst month, nor later thau the
second week in August, but no rule can be laid
down iu this matter, soils aud seasons differing
so much. The ordinary Lilac-bush, as grown in
nurseries for out-of-door planting, will not do as
a pot-plant, as it has, as a rule, received no
special treatment, and usually cousists of a
number of shoots springing from the root, whereas
a prepared Lilac plant has a short e'ean stem,
surmounted by a crown of shoots. For early
flowering, the plants should be taken up with
root-mass intact as soon as the foliage is ripe,
and there is still enough warmth in the air to
induce the formation of roots. The pots should
be just large enough to take the mass, together
witii a little fresh soil, the potting beiug carefully
and firmly done, but QOt so firmly as to injure
the roots. Afford water immediately, aud stand
the potted plauts in a half shaded place. The
best kind of soil is heavy loam, rendered porous by
the addition of leaf-soil (quarter) and half a peck
of sand to a wheel-barrow full of soil. The
potted plants may be kept packed in a leaf-bed
out-doors, or in a turf-pit.

Names of Plants: Correspondents not answered
in this issue are requested to be so good as
to consult tin' following number. — IT. C. Garden-
raised Caladiums and Crotons vary so much,
that it is impossible for any but a grower to
name them. — See ds. The flowers seut are those
of seminal varieties of Khododendrou Edge-
worthi, R. fragrantissimum, and perhaps, some
Himalayan species. Send them to some nursery-
man who grows these plants extensively. —
C. W. D. A species of Viola,probably a white
variety of V. odorata, that has been dyed
scarlet. — J. H. li. We cannot undertake to
name varieties of Daffodils. Send them to one
of the large trade growers. — /. H. 1, Pulmonaria
officinalis ; 2, Not recognisable ; 3, Phlox sub-
ulata ; 4, Alchemilla arvensis ; .r>, Lysimachia
Nummularia ; 6, A species of Heliauthemum,
Rock Rose.— iS'. A7. Hibiscus sp., perhaps H.
Abelmoschus. If you will kindly send a better
specimen later on, we may be able to speak more
definitely.— P. A. B. 1, Kerria japonica; 2,
Berberis (Mahonia) Aquifolium ; 3, Orobus
vermis ; 4, Oruithogalum nutans ; 5, Tulipa
sylvestris ; tj, Primula cortusoides. — F. F. Epi-
medium piunatum.— P. B. 1, Potamogeton ;
perhaps P. obtusifolius ; 2, Saxifraga cordifolia ;
3, Bridgesia spicata ; 4, Berberis Darwini ; 5,
Stachys germanica ; 0, Phalaris aruudinacea,
with variegated leaves,— D. D. Pieris flori-

bunda. — Tester. 1, Acer platanoides ; 2, For-
sythia suspensa ; 3, Buddleia globosa ; 4, Hab-
rothamnus fasciculatus ; 5, Populus balsamifera,
probably — what a scrap ! ; 6, Pulmonaria offi-
cinalis ; 7, Pyrus Mains floribunda. — Novice.

1, N. bicolor ; 2, Narcissus major ; 3, N. tela-
monius plenus ; 4, N. odorus double ; 5, N.
miuor ; 6, Lielia superbiens. — J. D. A. 1, Den-
drobium Devonianum ; 2, Dendrobium pulchellum
of gardens ; 3, Pentas carnea : 4, Selaginella
ciesia arborea. — Mac. 1, Cyrtomium Fortunei ;

2, Pteris argyraea ; 3, Pteris tremula ; 4, Adiau-
tum formosum ; 5, Pteris longifolia ; 6, Cyr-
tomium falcatum. — /. A". 1, Oncidium luridum ;
2, Cymbidium aloefolium ; 3, Oncidium Caven-
dishianum ; 4, Dendrobium Pierardi ; 5, Dendro-
bium thyrsirlornm. — A'. P. 1, Miltonia flaves-
cens ; 2, Oucidium sphacelatum. — W. A. 1,
Phyllocactus crenatus ; 2, Phyllocactus Acker-
manni.

Peach-leaves : W. B. The silver-leaf disease,
the exact cause of which is not known ; cut away
the diseased portions, grow the plants well, feed
well, aud try a solution of sulphate of irou (green
vitriol), half-an -ounce to two gallons of water.

Pelargonium Constance : H. & B., Twickenham..
We can find no evidence of disease upon your
plaut. It is much more likely that the leaves
have been withered by some liquid that has been
poured over them. The roots aud stem are
perfectly healthy.

Spotted Leaves: Thirty-five Years' Subscriber.
The spots on the foliage of Dendrobium seut may
have arisen from something unusual or acci-
dental during the past season, the summer of
which was unusually trying. If the damage
does not arise from disease, the plants may be
grown out of it. We do not think it contagious.
In Dendrcbiums, spot of this kind often appears
where the growths have not been properly
ripeued ; and if your remark, " the plauts
have for many years been grown in the same
house," may be taken literally, it would seem to
indicate that the cooler resting season had not
been observed.

Tomatos in Unheated House : II'. II'. Plant out
early iu May, aud if cold weather at night occurs
afterwards you must afford protection, either by
coveriug the roof or the plants.

Vine and Peach Leaves : O. II'. The leaves
sent show scalding, the result of lack of venti-
lation during a burst of bright sunshine, or from
the house remaining closed to a late hour in the
morning.

Vines : J. E. Wing. The warty under surface
shows a want of balance between the air admitted
and the aerial moisture iu the house. You can
remedy this by affording more air, if necessary
using fire-heat by day in greater amount. There is
no disease. — IT. /'. The leaves are affected with
mildew, and you had better make use forthwith
of sulphide of potassium, J ounce in a gallon of
rain-water. The mildew has doubtless killed
the tissues of the leaves aud berries wherever
it has attached itself, and the latter will have to
be cut out of the bunches, for the affected parts
of the skin ceasing to grow, the berries will
split. Maintain a warmer aud rather drier air,
and paint the heating apparatus with sublimed
sulphur, besides keeping this substance mixed
with water in saucers placed about the vinery.

Communications Received.— Stanley Edwards. — R. F. —
W. .1. P.— A. li. W.— Wild Rose.— H. D.— A. U.— H. M.—
A. C. P.— R P. B.— R. W. A.-T. C.-S. A.— E. S.— F. S.-
II. A.— T. N.— J. L.— W. Dames.— Anxious One.— H. P. M.
—A. F. B.— Sir C. S.— W. B. H.— Molesey.— A. A. I).—
T. N , Epsom.— A. M.-H. G. J. -J. L.— R. W.— W. D.—
II P. -J. W. Miller.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks —
\V. li. H., Cjik.

IMPORTANT TO ADVERTISERS. — "" PutlisUr has

the satisfaction of announcing thai the circulation of the
"Hardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in tlie
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the "Chronicle' circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Clashes of Gardeners'
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreion and Colonial Circulation and that it is
preserved f>r reference in all the principal Libraries.

{For Markets and Weather, see p. x.)

May 6, 1899.)

TEE GARDENERS' CHR 0 NI GL E.

273

f^-THW1^-"

THE

dstrdcnen,' O^TtrxjnicIe

No. 645.— SATURDAY, MAY 6, 1899.

BUEFOKD.

IN speaking or writing of the famous gardens
of Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., the Presi-
dent of the Royal Horticultural Society, his
personal and inherited hobby, the Orchids
always present themselves first, and invariably
the Burford collection is adjudged the most
varied and thoroughly representative collection
which has ever been got together, and in which
the handsome and rare species both new and
old, the curious and botanical, and the garden
hybrids, in the production of which Burford
has taken such an important part, all take
prominent places, and one section is not allowed
tn encroach detrimentally on the other.

But those who are conversant with the gar-
dens, also know that what is true of the Orchids,
is true also of the whole of the gardens, both
outdoors and in, for no more truly represen-
tative garden probably has ever existed, the
skill and care which Mr. \V. H. White, the
( h'ehid-grower, bestows on the Orchids being
equalled by the diligent attention given by Mr.
W. Bain, the gardener to the rest of the
garden, in which at all seasons the best plants
of the period are to be found grown up to their
very best condition.

We call to mind the many different garden
scenes, varying with the season, which we have
seen at Burford, each differing widely from the
other, but all having the constant feature of the
pleasant homestead nestling in the nook formed
by Boxhill, whose rugged and chalky face,
studded with the Gueldres Rose, Box-bushes,
and other low shrubs, imparts a stately natural
beauty, which Art could imitate, but not rival.

At the entrance-lodge the tall, straight-
stemmed trees, the lower part of whose trunks
are clad with Ivy, a carpeting of which, studded
with low Yew-bushes and Butcher's Broom,
form another pretty feature ; and the carriage-
drive, with its rows of pyramidal Cupressua
Lawsoniana, serve to give an admirable contrast
to the larger trees in tin1 pleasure-ground
beyond.

In the gardens around the house in the
summer-time the central basin has a fine show
of the new coloured Water-Lilies, and Tuberous
Begonias, Cannas and other bright Mowers,
make an effective display. The gardens outside
the plant-houses are trial-grounds, into which
all well-accredited novelties, both of shrubby
plants and bulbs or annuals, are admitted, and
if they are not up to the standard, they are soon
destroyed ; but if of merit superior to any of
their class, a stock is quickly worked up suffi-
cient to show the subject at its best during the
next year, and with the skilful culture given it
-here, many a novelty springs into notoriety.
Recently the Narcissus, Scillas, Chionodoxa,
Snowdrop, and other spring bulbs supplied
the chief of the outdoor flowers.

Nearer the plant-houses i.s a pretty rugged
dell, the sides clad with Ivy, Ferns, and dwarf

Box bushes, and from the bottom of which
spread lofty trees, which give a grateful shade
in summer.

The Okohid-Hoi'ses

have their best show now made by the Den-
drobiums, many of the hybrids being raised at
Burford. In the large warm-house, one side
had a very fine show, in which the Burford type
of Dendrobium x Wigania- gave an admirable
illustration of the beauty and variety to be
obtained by the hybridist using exceptionally
fine varieties to seed from. The many plants of
it in bloom showed it to be of very free habit,
the steins of some being over 3 feet long, and
furnished with bloom the greater part of their
length. One handsome form, D. x W. xantho-
chilum, had bright dark yellow flowers with
purple eye, ami was even richer in colour than
D. signatum. one of the parents ; while other
forms closely approached D. nobile, the other
agent used, and might be mistaken for a yellow-
tinted D. nobile.

Other instances of exceptional beauty in
hybrids were evidenced in the Burford-raised
D. x Juno, D. x Euterpe, O. x melanodiscum,
D. x Aurora, and D. x Clio. Other hybrids
finely in bloom were Dendrobium x Cordelia,
with ten growths; D. x Rolfete, D. x Aspasia,
many varieties of D. x Burfordiense, D. x
splendidissimum grandiflorum, D. x Euryclea,
and many others : and among the species, D.
nobile nobilius, D. n. Sanderianum, 1>. n.
Murrhiniacum, and other varieties of D. nobile ;
D. lasioglossum, D. Falconeri giganteum, D.
aggregatum, D. subclausum, D. Capillipes, D.
albo-sanguineum, D. cucullatum giganteum, 1).
Johannis, D. superbum giganteum, D. Dal-
housieanum, D. tortile, D. crepidatum, D.
secundum, and D. s. album ; and among the
apecies not yet flowered, plants of the Mysore
D. .lerdonianum, a singular red-flowered species,
and others of great interest.

Ou the other side of the house is a bauk of large
specimens of the warm-house Cypripediums, many
of which are in bloom, and on those of marbled
foliage like C. Lawreuceanum, their beautiful foliage
is enough to warrant the care bestowed on them.
The centre of interest, perhaps, is the tine plant of
Cypripedium Stonei platyta-iiium (fig. 104, p. 2S1),
which has attracted so many admirers whenever it
has flowered, and whose history since its first
appearance iu Mr. Day's collection as a chance im-
ported plant in IStiT, demonstrated how a beautiful
and well defined variation may increase in favour and
proportionately iu value in spite of the many other
novelties annually distributed. Nothing yet has
appeared like C. Stonei platyu uium and probably
were the plants iu Sir Trevor Lawrence's ind Baron
Schroder's collection put on the market, it would
be found that uothing had attained their value.
The plant from which the illustration was taken
lias live growths. In the case of the plant in ques-
tion there is reason for coveting it for its stately
cream -while rose -crimson marked flowers, are
strikiug and beautiful, even to those who know
not its value. In the fine bank of plants in bloom
are large specimens of the typical C. Stonei, C.
liothschildianum, with two strong spikes of five
flowers; C, Chamberlainiauum, C. x Winnianum,
C. Mastersianum (fig. 101, p. 274), &c. At one end is
a healthy collection of Phahenopsis, some of them iu
bloom ; and overhead a splendid collection of Bill
boph^lbims, Cirrhopetalums, Megacliniums, and
allied species, which are also giving their share of
interesting subjects in flower, one of the most
remarkable being the sensitive feathery-lipped 15.
barbigerum.

The Odontoglossums are in splendid condition,
and in their culture at Burford the large new
Odontoglossum-house has been a great acquisition.
When necessity involved the keeping of the plants
in other houses not specially constructed for them,

the most constant vigilance was required to keep
them up to the mark, but since the fresh arrange-
ments have been made the Odontoglossums grow in
the most satisfactory manner, their stout, sleek
pseudo-bulbs and fleshy green leaves being pleasant
to behold, even when not in flower. Here, as in a
few other places of late, it has been the practice to
abandon the crocking the pots for Odontoglossums as
far as possible, the drainage being supplied by the
Bracken-rhizomes iu the peat, which in many
places has been previously wasted. The best
results have arisen, for the plants take to tli9
material, which is a natural vehicle for moisture.
In flower are some tine forms of 0. erispum, both
white and spotted ; some grand 0. Halli, one fine
form having a spike of sixteen flowers, while
another has an inflorescence over 6 feet, and
bearing eight branches. Also iu bloom are some
fine violet-coloured 0. Edwardi, O. inulus, O.
prionopetalon, 0. Wilckeanum, 0. luteo-purpureum,
and some magnificent dark forms of O. luteo-pur-
pureum. In these cool-houses, too, the many
plauts of 0. varicosum, 0. concolor, and other
highland species thrive well, theO. concolor sending
out spikes freely.

The Masdevallias have never given any trouble
at Burford, their compact cool house having always
suited them well, and the outcome of clean un-
spotted foliage and a profusion of flowers resulted.
Of those in flower in more or less quantity were
remarked varieties of M. ignea, and M. coccinea,
M. Ycitchiana, M. x falcata, M. triangularis, M.
polysticta, M. caloptera, M. x Parlatoreana, M. x
Hincksiana, M. x Shuttryana and variety Chain-
berhiiniana, M. Armini, M. Shuttleworthi and
variety xanthocorys, M. x Gelengiana, M. x
Courtauldiana, M. x Asmodia, M. Sororia, M.
maculata, &c. ; and among the singular small-
growing species, Al. Simula, and the rare AI.
O'Brieniana. Here, too, the singular Pleurothallis,
Octomerias, and Stelis are accommodated, some of
them nearly always in flower.

Of the other great sections cultivated at Burford,
the Cattleyas and Ladias have the least in flower
at the present time, contributing only some of the
smaller species, although among the Cattleyas a
few bright specimens of C. Lawrenceana, one of
them bearing sixteen fine flowers, tell what a fine
species it is when properly grown. A plant also of
C. x Lawre-AIossire show that its good properties
may be communicated. Among those to flower
later are the fine white Cattleya Alossia- Wag-
neri, with five flower-sheaths ; C. intermedia alba,
&c. ; and among the hybrids in bloom are Laelio-
Cattleya x The Hon. Mrs. Astor, with charming
yellowish, rose-tinted flowers, and one or two others.

In the large house, the centre table of which is
occupied by the showy Sobralias, the remarkable
collection of Epidendrums which always give
interesting things in bloom, have now open the
pretty and rare E. Endresii with several heads of
white and violet flowers. Dipping in rain-water
overhead several times a week and lightly sponging
the leaves, is here said to ensure success with this
beautiful little plant. With it are its hybrids,
E. x Endresio-Wallisii, E. x elegantulum and its
variety leucochilum, and also their parent E.
YVallisii. With them are E. tridactylum, E. Jur-
genseni, E. Schomburgki, E. x xantho-radicaus,
and some other red-flowered hybrids ; E. x O'Brieni-
ana, E. diffusuin, E. fuscatum, E. polybulbou, and
other singular and pretty species. One side is
occupied by a fine bank of Aliltcnia vexillaria in
splendid condition, with Al. x Bleuana well iu
flower. Beside them are a fine batch of AI. Koezli
in graud order, with a few in flower ; and a lot of
M. Phahenopsis, which are flourishing unusually
well, for it often gives trouble. Then comes the
collection of CVelogynes, with a fine mass of C.
conferta and others in bloom. In the warm seed-
ling-house a very interesting lot of hybrids are
coming on, and iu other parts iu bloom are Bifre-
naria Harrisonia', and its yellow variety ; some
Ly castes, Zygopetalum Clayii, the fine scarlet
Epiphronitis x Veitchi (one of the most satis-

274

THE GAJlDENEBS' CH1WN1CLE.

[May (i, 1899.

factory of hybrids), Dendrobium Kingianum and
1). K. album, Catasetum Warscewiczii, Maxillaria
Heutteana, and, as usual at Burford, a great
number of things which cannot be recorded.

In the Anthurium-house is a good show of A.
Scherzerianum, and the white, scarlet - spotted
varieties of it raised at Burford, and in the green-
house a good show of spring flowers.

WHEAT AND TULIPS.

(Continued from p. 257 .)
The primitive home of the genus Tulipa is
without doubt to be sought in the East, and
almost every species is there indigenous, and
only T. sylvestris and T. Celsiana had spit-ad
over the whole of South-western Europe in
prehistoric times. Various forms may have
wandered in various directions round tin:
Mediterranean basin, and most of them, as
so many other Mediterranean plants, may have
followed the African coast. Two members of
the group, viz., Tulipa fragrans and T. primu-
lina, remained African ; and another, viz.,
T. transtagana crossed to the Iberian peninsula.
The isolation of T. sylvestris in Greece and
Sicily must be due, the author thinks, to their
disappearance in Asia Minor and Northern
Africa.

The views expressed in regard to the distri-
bution of the genus are admitted to be hypo-
thetical, and the surest proof would by without
doubt an exact and careful investigation of the
spread of the yellow Tulip in the Balkan penin-
sula, in which manner the members of the
genus have wandered north and south. We
must wait a long time for this being carried out
with living plants, and the difficulty of deter-
mining species in the dried state.

With regard to the red-coloured and varie-
gated Tulips, these were not found in Europe
before 1550, although there are faint traces of
an earlier acquaintance with them. In the
museum of the Vatican an antique mosaic
shows a flower-basket, in which, by the unani-
mous verdict of various botanists and others,
what are nothing less than red Tulips are por-
trayed among other flowers. Still, as the Tulip
does not occur in any other antique wall
mosaics that have come down to our day.
one must be careful in their use as a
proof of the existence of the red Tulip
in Europe. The mosaic in question was
discovered about the end of the last cen-
tury in the garden of some villa of the Roma
vecchia, at a spot between Porta San Sebas-
tiano and Cecilia Metella. If it is in its original
completeness, or has been restored by a modern
artist, is not known, though such occurrences
are not uncommon. Moreover, mosaics
being costly objects, were often carried
by their possessors from place to place, and
the one in the Vatican may have been made
in some Eastern land — in Asia Minor, or Syria,
where the red Tulip is a held flower.

In the 17th century, red Tulips were common
plants, and they may be divided by historical
evidence into the two sections, Palseo and
Neo-tulipte. In the ease of the former we note
the commencement of acclimatation similarly
to T. sylvestris in the 18th century after being
brought as a decorative garden plant in the
previous century from the East.

The Neo-tulipai came into Europe suddenly
and naturally in the present century, and there
are no literary data relating to them.

Among the older forms, Tulipa Clusiana is

Weizcn a,,, I Tulpe "<<'' deren Geschicltte, vonH. Qrafenzu
Solms-Laubach, Professor der Botanik an dcr Universitiit,
irg. (Leipzig : Verlag von Arthur Ft-lix, ISM.)

mentioned as being of very extensive distribution
at the present time, reaching from Schiraz and
Syria through the Grecian Archipelago, Italy,
Southern France, and as far as Spain and
Portugal ; but within these borders, the places
where it is found in any abundance are much
scattered and isolated. The species was known
by Clusius and his successors as T. persica
prjecox ; also 1 >y Parkinson and Ray. It is a
species much more liable to be influenced by its
surroundings than T. sylvestris; and, on the
other hand, owing to the abundance of its
progeny, it lias overrun as large an area as that

author that it was T. oculus solis St. Ainans
which Parkinson had in mind, and not T.
prsecox when he described "but the leaves here
are alwayes long and somewhat narrow, having
a large black bottonie, made likeuntoacheurne,
the point whereof riseth up unto the middle of
the leafe, higher than any other Tulipa."
Cheurne being a form of the word chevern ; and,
in fact, the form of the basal spot agrees to a
certain extent with that of a little fish, and that,
more by T. oculus solis than T. praecox,
whilst the pleasant fragrance is absent from both
the species in question.

Fin. 101. — CVI'Kl II oil M MASTERSIANDM. (SEE P, -273.)

species, and even the most northerly parts of
its home, as in a vineyard near St. Pierre
d'Albegny, in Savoy ; and in a plantation near
Biviers by Grenoble great quantities of the
plant have been found, and the cultivators have
been at great pains to destroy it as an injurious
weed, and so far with apparent success.

The second place among the old Tulips
belongs to the tine Tulipa oculus solis St.
Ainans, which is confined to-day to Italy
and France on one side, and to Syria (Aleppo)
on the other side. In the countries lying
betwixt these, it is, so far as we know, non-
existent. According to Reboul first, and
Mattei later, this species was cultivated in Dutch
gardens in the time of Clusius. It appears to the

As early as iti.'lii, a Tulip which was either
T. oculus solis or T. prrecox, was in cultivation
at Paris, as Simon Pauli's catalogue of the
gardens there contains a description of a T.
pyrisina sen bombycina medioflore nibro imguibus
purpureas sulfiireo airculo rin<ii*. The plant
was found in cultivated fields, by the borders of
roads, at St. Amans, near Agen, in southern
France, in the early part of the present century,
and was described in Recueil <!>■ la Soc. AgricoU
d'Agen, and also in the Flore Agenaise in 1821,
Possibly it existed in Southern France still
earlier, at least as early as 1715, in the vicinity
of Aix, in Provence. At the present time it is
a form met with in many places. There cannot
be any doubt as to its eastern origin, but the

Ma* 0, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

275

precise locality is uncertain, as it is only found
on cultivated land.

Quite recently the firm of Dainmann & Co., of
San Teduccio, near Naples, have introduced a
Bpecies found near Arnasia, in Pontus, its
natural habitat, under the name of T. Dammann-
iana, a name that is unfortunate, seeing that
Regel discovered a quite different species in
Turkestan which he described as T. Dammanni.
This T. Dammanniana grown in a garden at
Strasburg appears more insignificant than T.
oculus solis, although resembling it in all
essential particulars ; and the author agrees
with Mattei that it is the primitive form of our
cultivated plant.

The most abundant red-flowered Tulip of
Italy is T. prsecox, which has been known since
1811. The new Tulips which the author now

NOTES FEOM A SCOTTISH MANSE.

Tins season might expressly be called the period
of Nature's transfiguration. Since last I wrote to
the Gardeners' Chronicle, her aspect has undergone
under the influence of more inspiring atmospheric
conditions, a most marvellous change, and the trees
at that period so bleak and naked in their out-
ward appearance, though full of embryonic hope
and capability, have assumed their tender and
delicately-tinted leaves at the touch of the mighty
magician of the spring. Primroses in millions
make yellow the deep glens, or the green slopes
above the shore. In the woodlands, Scilla nutans,
one of the loveliest and most fragrant of the mani-
fold gifts of early summer, is preparing the
revelation of its luxuriant bloom. Nothing is more
beautiful at present than the Gorse, so much
admired by the great Linnaeus, some of whose hues
rival those of the Marcchal Niel Rose. It has an

FlO. 102.— ENTRANCE TO THE GROUNDS \T BURFORD LODGE, WITH BOX mil
IN THE BACKGROUND, (SEE P. 273.)

undertakes to find the origin of, are very
remarkable appearances in the European flora.
They cannot be identified with Oriental species,
and they appeared suddenly in well-known flori-
cultural centres, " like a maiden from abroad,"
without anyone asking or making a note about
their origin. The most remarkable fact is their
distribution. The majority are found in groups
together in the vicinity of inhabited places,
especially near Florence, Bologna, and St. Jean
de Maurienne in Savoy.

The first of these forms T. connivens, and T.
strangulata var. Bonarotiana, were found by
Reboul, in 1822, at Florence. In 1823 came
T. maleolens, serotina, strangulata, variopicta,
and neglecta, in the same district. There are
several others found in the above-named places
which cannot be identified with any known
wild species, although T. strangulata is regarded
as coming near to the Greek species, T. bceotica.
(To '"■ continued.)

exquisite companion in the Black Thorn (or Sloe,
as it is called in Scotland), which, in picturesque
situations in this sea-girt parish, flowers profusely
by its side, thereby creating a most artistic con-
trast ; while, at the same time, as Nature well
knew, when she placed them in such positions,
their colours harmonise.

Our gardens are also at the present period
supremely attractive. My only Almond tree, *
very fine standard of graceful form, is a mass of
blossoms, which are seen to most advantage from
the upper windows of the manse. I was informed
yesterday by a visitor to my garden, a native of
Chili, that in South America its blossoms are pure
white. The Early Rivers, Czar, and " Denniston
Superb Green Gage" Plums are blooming superbly ;
so also are the Early Rivers and Black Eagle
Cherries, which seldom fail to blossom well.
I have, mirabile dictu, the Irish Peach-Apple
(April 27) in flower. Its usual time of flowering
at Waltham Cross, in Hertfordshire, is given
by Mr. Wm. Paul, in his valuable work entitled
Oontributiom to Horticulture, as May 1. Other

varieties, such as the American_Mother_Apple
and the Duchess of Oldenburg, are almost
equally far advanced, and will soon be in bloom ;
the latter, which is greatly cultivated and
much esteemed by my friend Mr. Thos. F.
Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, is one of the most
valuable Apples in cultivation. The Beauty of
Bath, though charming in colour, I have not
found so entirely trustworthy, though elsewhere, I
doubt not, it may have proved a greater success.
It is possible that in my own garden it may not
have found a congenial soil, but I fear its constitu-
tion is not very strong. A more vigorous variety
is the Early Strawberry, which is also very orna-
mental, by reason of its rich complexion duriug the
autumnal months.

Our gardens will soon reach the climax of their
beauty, for there is nothing more beautiful within
the realms of nature than the Apple-trees in perfect
and glorious bloom. The exquisite season of
Violas and Auriculas, precious alike for per-
fume and their capability of massive floral effect,
has already begun. The Violas chiefly admired
and cultivated here are almost wholly of the
miniature, richly fragrant, profusely flowering,
" Violetta " type. But I also grow several of the
larger and older kinds, such as the Countess of
Kintore, Iona, one of her most charming variations ;
Prince of Orange, Florizel (one of Dr. Stuart's
finest introductions), the graceful white Duchess,
and Countess of Wharncliffe. Mr. Wm. Cuth-
bertson's Blue Bedder, recently raised at Rothesay,
is a great acquisition.

During last winter 1 added to my already exten-
sive collection of Lilies, the two latest introductions
from America and .Japan, viz., the Burbank Lily,
raised by the American hybridist' of that name;
and Lilium rubellum, described by Mr. Baker, of
Kew, in the Gardeners' Chronicle, May 2S, 1S9S,
fig. 12S ; which, by reason of its deep pink colour and
greater reliability (though the flowers, I .believe,
are considerably smaller), seems not unlikely even-
tually to supersede that older and more familiar
Japanese variety, Lilium Krameri, of which the
latter, as I know from long experience, is somewhat
difficult to cultivate, aud even when successful
fails to generate offsets, and seldom lasts longer
than two years. Lilium rubellum, in the opinion
of Dr. Wallace of Colchester, has a more vigorous
constitution than its beautiful predecessor, Lilium
Krameri, and even when its bulbs are of very
anall dimensions, seldom fails to bloom. Its relia-
bility, indeed, seems to be one of its most valuable
characteristics. It should therefore prove an
important addition to those floral treasures which
hate been introduced into our British gardens from
the East, and from the West.

The now American hybrid, which might classi-
cally be styled Lilium Burbanki x , is the result of
a cross between two noble species, viz. , the deeply
fragrant, lilacy-white Lilium Washingtonianum,
and the majestic Pauther Lily of California, Lilium
pardalinum. With such a highly distinguished
parentage, it can hardly fail to prove an iuteresting
production. Its colour is orange-yellow, spotted
with maroon. David I!. Williamson.

Plant Notes.

CRINUM BALFOURI.

Th is is the first of a batch of bulbs lately brought
home by Dr. Henry 0. Forbes from his recent
expedition to the Island of Socotra, and presented
to the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens. The plant
bears an umbel of twenty-two flowers, strongly
fragrant, the scape being about 20 inches high.
Individually, the blooms are about 4 inches across,
white with a tinge of pink, this colour also tipping
the style and filaments. The leaves are said to be
much shorter than those of most Crinums. The
figure in Bot. Mag., t. 6570, must have been pre-
pared from a small specimen of this species brought

27G

THE GABDENEBS' CHBONIOLE,

[May 6, 1S99.

home by Professor Balfour in 1880. Some of the
bulk now to hand are 8 inches in diameter, and
round iu shape, the flowers appearing before the
foliage. An intermediate temperature, such as
that required for Begonia socotrana, should suit
this plant, and it is certainly worthy a place in our
greenhouses for its fragrance alone, which is suffi-
cient to fill the house in which it is grown. /.'. L.
Harrow, Edinburgh.

Abutilon Sawitzii.

At the present time I have a batch of beautifully
marked, symmetrically-formed plants of this new
Abutilon in 5-inch pots. The height of these
variegated-leaved plants, from the rim of the pots,
ranges from 10 to 15 inches. They were struck
from cuttings inserted last August, and have been
grown in a warm temperate-house during the
winter. They have not been pinched. I find if the
leader be taken out, a number of thin weakly
shoots are produced, and the contour of the plant
is not nearly so fine as when grown naturally
throughout. The variegation is equally good in
the case of unstopped plants.

Small plants in 3-inch pots of this Abutilon are
useful as ' ' dot " plants upon the dinner-table,
being particularly bright under artificial light. In
well-grown specimens the white variegation largely
predominates over the green colour in the foliage.
I have not yet grown the plant under such cool
treatment as variegated Abutilons are generally
given, but it is evident that the temperature we
have employed is a suitable one, although a cooler
one may answer. I have a doubt if the plants
would thrive in a temperature below 50', for the
variety is not nearly so robust as A. Thompsoni,
A. vexillarium, and others. If A. Sawitzii could
he utilised for bedding purposes as are those named,
it would be a gem iu the flower-garden, as it
certainly is when used for decoration of rooms.
The plant was distributed several years since by
Messrs. Sander & Co., St. Albans. H. T. Martin,
Slum!, i.jli Abbey.

South African Notes.

• ■

JOHANNESBURG.

Johannesburg is situated in the heart of South
Africa, 6000 feet above the sea-level, and very
nearly in the same latitude as Delagoa Bay, the
southern joint of Madagascar and Brisbane. The
maximum heat I have registered in six years has
beeu 93', and the minimum 20° Fahr. , thermo-
lii ster under a regulation shaded screen 4 feet
from the ground in both cases. The winter and
spriug are dry and cold, summer and autumn wet
and warm. The rainfall, which varies year by
year a little above and below 28 inches, falls be-
tween the summer months of October aud March ;
the remaining months are practically rainless.
Bain often falls so heavily— I have registered
2-42 iuches in one night — that a great portion
rushes away, and is lost. We have mauy light
showers, which, although they make a respectable
contribution when carefully measured, yet iu prac-
tice they aid vegetation very little, owing to the
very rapid evaporation. Vast stores of water
exist below the ground iu many places at
from 50 to 100 feet. These are being utilised
now. On every Butch farm a spring is to be
found ; aud wherever the flat high veld breaks,
deseeuds into the valleys. The springs often flow
with great strength. There are several within a
radius of 50 miles from here which yield from
1,000,0110 to 20,000,000 gallons of pure water daily.

Geographically, this town is exactly on the
dividing ridge of the water-shed of South Africa,
for close to where I am writing, on one side a
spring discharges itself into the Limpopo, and so on
to the Indian Ocean ; on the other side, another
spring flows into the Vaal River, and thence to the
Atlantic. On the slopes below the hills the soil is
a very deep, sandy, alluvial loam, in some places

over 200 feet deep, resting on gravel and granite.
Lower down iu the valleys we come on a black
loam, with pottery clay below. Ten years ago the
site of the town was a grassy slope, dotted with
dwarf Froteas aud Acacias, with no outward sign
of the gold which lay below. Our mines have
increased to such au extent that the monthly yield
is 400,000 ounces of gold, equal to £50,000 each
day ! The total value of the gold in our great reef
is said to be £1,000,000,000 sterling, but the
working costs are about 50 per cent. A very short
note on the origin of this gold deposit, which is
fast changing South Africa, may be admitted here.
Imagine ten thousand ages ago a very large
inland, shallow, salt-water lake where I am now
writing. The water of this lake was strongly
charged with gold, which is nothing extraordinary,
as all salt water contains gold in a slight degree.
Gradually the lake dried up, and the gold, as fine
as flour, sank into the sandy bed ; one side of this
dry lake-bed sank down some 5000 feet, leaving the
edge of the opposite side standing up, aud formed
the main reef. Great changes took place ; the
valley where the lake was silted up with sand and
shale and mud, brought down by a great river.
Ages afterwards, forests of Tree-Ferns and giant
mosses covered many parts of the Transvaal, aud
these being buried were converted into coal, without
which it would have been practically impossible to
work the mines of gold. Gold and coal alike lay
buried deep below the ground, unseen aud unsus-
pected, until the present age. R. W. Adlam,
Joubert Par]:, Johannesburg.

(To be continui'l.)

The Rosary.

•

FORTUNE'S YELLOW and SUNRISE.

Some years ago, a provincial nurseryman intro-
duced a Rose which he called "Beauty of Glazen-
wood ;" it is a climbing Rose, of rambling habit, and
a profuse bloomer, and after some time it was dis-
covered to be au old friend called Fortune's Yellow.
This Rose appears to have been introduced by Mr.
Robert Fortune from China, and for some cause or
other it was but little cultivated until it came into
the possession of the nurserymau who sent it out
into the world as Beauty of Glazenwood. It is
very rich in colour, being deep yellow, and
curiously flaked and striped with dark red, a
combination which forcibly reminds one of the
Austrian Copper.

Sunrise, is a beautiful " gain " of Mr. Piper's, of
Ucktield ; it is abrilliant orange-yellow flower, with
the back of the petals rosy-pink, of excellent form,
and very free-flowering. It was shown in fine
condition at the Royal Horticultural Society's
meeting on May 2.

PiSOSl'ECTS OF THE ROSE SEASON.

It is perhaps somewhat early to descant upon this
subject, yet as bud-shoots begin to start forth, one is
tempted to say something. There are two lines
of thought which come into the Rose-grower's
mind as he looks forward to the season's outcome,
the first being in what condition shall we find our
old-established favourites V and the second, what
new varieties are likely to be added to our list?
With regard to the first thought, I fear the pros-
pect is not of the brightest. Of course, I am aware
how circumstances vary in different localities, and
what may be true of our South-eastern corner of
England, may not be true of the West, Midlands
and North.

On looking through my small collection of Roses,
consisting of Hybrid Porpetuals, Hybrid Teas, aud
Teas, I find that the cold weather at the latter end
of March most seriously affected them. Wo had as
much as 12° of frost, and as the sap at that period
was rising rapidly, it hit the Roses very hard ; not
only were the young shoots scalded, but the wood
I had not pruned was injured. Nor was it a ques-
tion whether I should prune hard or not, for the
frost had already settled that, aud I had to cut

down pretty low to get rid of the injured wood.
I found this was alike in all three classes ; iudeed,
I fancy that the Teas are uot so much injured as
the H. P. 's. I am not alone in suffering this
injury, for I have been talking lately with several
Rose friends, and they have the same story to tell ;
but I have just received a letter from one of our
champion Tea Rose growers in East Anglia, who
says he does not think he ever saw such firm, stout
wood as he has on his Teas this year. It must
ever be remembered that it is the amateur who
especially suffers in such cases, for the nursery-
man, who has his various quarters in different
aspects, and on many different stocks, is pretty
sure in some way or other to partially escape.

There is little to be done now to ward off any
loss, and we must hope that no further untoward
circumstances may occur. The demand for Rose
plants has beeu exceptionally large, and it is
pleasant to know that our American cousins are
our very good customers. I do not think there
will be any diminution in the number of our exhi-
bitors, but that many will come forward to take
the place of those who, from one cause or another,
may have left our ranks. Few persons are aware
what a strain Rose exhibiting is to those who enter
thoroughly into it. The exhibitions, it is true,
occupy but three weeks ; but what busy weeks
these are ! — travelling night and day, snatching a
hasty meal whenever it can be had, at the risk of
indigestion ; sleeping in uneasy positions in railway-
carriages, and arriving at stations at unearthly
hours, what wonder is it that the most enthusiastic
exhibitors, after a few years, grow tired, and thus
oue after another we have seen our most prominent
men throwing up the sponge. " No thank you,"
when one asked the question "Won't you exhibit
again?" "No, thank you, I have had enough of
it." So changes are taking place, especially among
our largest exhibitors. Wild Hose.

Vegetables.

FRENCH BEANS : VEITCH'S EARLY FAYOU-
RITE and SUTTON'S MAGNUM BONUM.

Where a succession of dwarf Beans is required
through the winter and spring, the above varieties
are very useful to follow the pot varieties, such as
Sion House, Osborn's Prolific, Mohawk or Six
Weeks, and Ne Plus Ultra.

We sowed Early Favourite at the end of January
in a bed in a span-roofed house, with little or no
tire-heat, aud have been gathering Beans for the
last month. These have beeu abundant, and of
splendid flavour and quality ; they promise to give
a good supply for some time to come. Magnum
Bouum was sown in the same house three weeks
later, and is just swelling -off the first fruits.
This variety has grown some 8 or 9 iuches taller
than Early Favourite, aud the pods are of excellent
length and substance. These varieties require to
be sown very thinly, and to be given restricted
root-room, as they are very robust-growing, and
are liable to damp if the temperature be too low
when the flowers are setting. One of the best
manures for French Beans is sheep - droppings.
A. /!. Wadds, Paddockhurst Gardens, Sussex.

SPONTANEOUS HYBRIDS OF

HARDY PLANTS.

(Concluded from p. 260.)

Amongst garden forms of perennial Sunflowers,
it is often difficult to fix the type of the species,
still more to recognise the parents of the hybrid
forms. I have found so much uncertainty about
the names, that I believe some of the best aud
commonest forms are hybrids, perhaps between
Helianthus rigidus (a very broad name) aud H.
doronicoides ; but I feel no doubt that mauy of
the allied species readily form hybrids, and that
mauy of these hybrids retain their fertility, pro-
ducing a variable offspring. Iu annual Sunflowers,

May 6, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

271

a friend once sent me ten seeds, saved from a
handsome hybrid plant, obviously between H.
anmms and H. debilis var. cucumerif dius. These
seeds all grew, and divided t>- .aiselves fairly
between the parents, five belonging to each type.
This year, Mr. Lynch, of Cambridge, has sent me
seeds of a hybrid between H. annuus and H.
argophyllus ; they are already up, and will probably
revert in a similar way.

Like the Sunflowers, the North American Asters
make many hybrids, which are often for the same
reasous hard to recognise. Sometimes, however,
they are well marked, as when the plumes of small
flowers of A. cordifolius have to make a compro-
mise with the large flowers and lanceolate leaves of
A. kevis or A. uovi-Belgii. In both these cases
the result is good in making distinct and orna-
mental varieties. Other excellent garden forms,
such as \V. J. Grant, and Coombe Fishacre, are
certainly hybrids of uncertain parentage. No
definite rule can be laid down as to their fertility.

grew and flowered, some being [darker than the
hybrid parent, others nearly white. They have
no new merit, but are a curious nondescript set.
About the same time near other plants of H.
sanguinea, I noticed two plants with the brown
shiny leaves of H. hispida syn. Eichardsoni), these
produced loose panicles of pale pink flowers and
ripened seed, which I believe 1 have sown, but I
can hardly call them interesting, so pay little
attention to them. I think I have seeu a similar
hybrid offered in nurseries as H. brizoides. If the
two hybrids I have described have any merit, it is
in being much more hardy and more free flowering
than the seed parent. The frosts at the end of last
March have nearly destroyed H. sanguinea in
exposed parts of the garden, but the hybrids are
unhurt.

I may mention a very pretty and elegant hybrid,
unfortunately cot robust, but now flowering for
the third season, Ranunculus amplexicaulis R.
gramineus, leaves and flowers, in colour and form,

Fig.

1(13. — SOME lit' Tilt ffODSKS in THE I
(SEE f.

AKUK.NS AT BURKOKU !"!' 'i D0RK3NI

•273.)

Some make good seed, and I have found that in
Aster it is never safe to pronounce seed barren
without a fair trial. The European Aster Amellus
presumably was the pollen-parent of the best
hybrid Aster which ever came in Edge garden, the
seed-parent being the Himalayan A. Thomsoui. It is
almost a complete inversion, the flower aud habit
being very near A. Amellus. It is the only one of
the kind I have seen, aud by careful division I
have raised aud distributed several plants. Its
chief merit is its very long flowering season, lasting
from July to October. Another hybrid which goes
on being produced from the same plant of A.
Thomsoui every year, sowing itself near the parent,
is between that species and A. pyremcus, which
grows all round it. The flowers are always inter-
mediate, especially iu the form of the pappus, but
vary in merit, being only in a few cases better than
either parent.

Heuchera sanguinea forms hybrids freely. The
first I noticed was six years ago, when a plant
growing by the side of the parent produced pale
pink flowers. On examination these proved to be
evidently a cross with H. cylindrica, which grew
near. The hybrid ripened a little seed, which

are honestly intermediate. It produces a few
seeds, aud three or four seedlings will soon flower.
Malva Alcea and M. moschata, both pink and
white, seem to coalesce into a mixed lot, which I
am unable to discriminate, though I admit that I
do not judge by any definite characters.

Herbaceous Veronicas are very erratic in their
characters when grown from cultivated seed. The
tiny wild native V. spicata soon passes into forms
2 feet high. One of them produced a very hand
some hybrid with V. incana, of which I accidentally
came across an exact portrait in Sweet's English
Flower Garden, named V. ueglecta, which no doubt
had the same origin. Also the veiy distinct form
of V. virginica, called in nurseries V. sibirica,
crosses spontaneously with the type, forming tall,
straight spikes of pale purple, better than either
parent.

1 must not close the subject without speaking of
one more hybrid — Lychnis coronaria x L. Flos-
Jovis. This came, I believe, spontaneously, many
years ago in the town-garden at Chester of my
friend, Mr. A. 0. Walker, who gave it to me. It
is exceedingly robust, growiug from any scrap, even
although rootless. It has a very prolonged flower-

ing period, and produces a" few seeds which I have
never taken the trouble to test. The colour, how-
ever, being magenta-crimson is proscribed by
artists ; and if by a few renewed trials of the same
cross the hybrid could be produced with the pure
pink flowers of L. Flos-.Tovis, it would make a
valuable decorative-plant. C. Wolley 1><>,I, E<h,,
Hall, Malpas.

THE LILIES OF THE SIEEKA
NEVADA.

Lilium pardalinum, Kellogg. -- The exo
dryness of the Sierra foot-hills drives this moisture
loving Lily into the canons aud ravines. Even
there in places where it was once plentiful, and
gathered in magnificent bunches by those arriving
in the "days of '49," it has become rarer and
rarer, till now we have to climb amongst rocks and
dig in deep deposits of loam to secure this bright
Tiger Lily. I have found its stalks as high as

0 feet, nodding over precipices, or standing upright
and displaying from one to six or seven flowers.
Wherever found, it inhabits bright, suuny spots,
and delights us by its fresh and clear colour of
orange, often washed with deep brownish red.
The spots of deep maroon are very thick and
yet distinct from each other) on a lighter ground-
colour of orange.

Thus distributed, I have found L. pardalinum
from 1000 feet up to 4000 feet. At the latti r
elevation, one begins to find sub-alpine meadows.
While the brightness of colour, the density of the
herbaceous growth, aud the deliciousness of the
perfume of these meadows have become proverbial.

1 remember, with double freshness, one especially
of the many I have traversed. This one was a
meeting-place for the Indians as they traversed
the Sierra from California to Carson Valley, in the
State of Nevada. They call it " Sopago," deriving
the name from the so-called Soaproot, Chlorogalum
angustifolium. Here, surrounded by the high
ridge of the mountain chain on which the emigrant-
road runs, moist on account of its position on tin
north slope, stretches a wide vale under the shelter
of giant Pines and Firs, which are safe from the
murderous axe on account of their inaccessibility.
Scattered settlers have setup homesteads here and
there, and in the cleared areas, where their garden
and grain plants ripen into rich crops in the deep,
loose, blackish soil, was the largest field of Lilium
pardalinum I ever beheld. What a stand of Lilies !
They grew in thickets, stem by stem like grass in
the meadow, 4 feet high, all with nodding heads of
from four to seven flowers. Standing in the
opening as they did, their colour was clearer (more
orange), and the foliage shorter, and the stem more
robust. Contrary to common belief, I was sur-
prised to learu that the disturbance of the plough-
share rather favours than hinders the growth of the
Lily, its corms dividing into fragments, each of
which produces a new plant if but half covered
by the rich warm soil under a sky the clearness
and brightness of which render everything in its
sphere graud aud delightful.

Lilium Hvmboldti is another so-called Tiger
Lily, of more sturdy growth aud majestic cha-
racter, the "Pardalinum of the hillsides." It
occurs at about 2000feet elevatiou, always selecting
the open Pine-woods, never found near water. Ian
always preferring slopes facing north. Iu this
regiou, all the old timber growth has been cat oil,
aud as we drive along the roads we may see tie
bright bunches, made up of five to twenty-five
flowers on a stalk, shiuiug brightly through the
thin boughs of Pines. As the Hazel nut is the
steady companion of L. pardalinum, so the cream-
coloured Iris Hartwegi is always to he found where
Lilium Humboldti abounds. Two causes render
this Lily more and more scarce : the stand of even
the second growth of Pines is being cleared away
aud replaced by grain fields; in the second place,
this species, wherever it occurs, is found in such
thick growths as to invite the settler to supply his

27S

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Mat 6, 1899.

garden with Lilies from the fields. Lastly, it may
be said that it requires fully three seasons for
Lilium Humboldti to bloom again if it is onee
disturbed, and, unlike L. pardalinum, the plough-
share is its sure death.

Lilium parvum, Kellogg.— As its name indicates,
the flowers are small ; their colour is orange, with
spots on the inside of the petals. It belongs to the
alpine region, reaching as high as $500 feet in the
region I traversed, and does not occur below
4500 feet. Wherever I found this Lily, I noticed
two forms, neither of which approached the other
in any intermediate specimens. The smaller one
reaches a height of 4 feet : its build is light, and
upon the stem, set with scattered leaves of light
green, stand loosely from two to six or seven
flowers. The other kind is a giant in stature and
make-up ; the stems are woody and hard, set with
whorls of rich deep green foliage, and carrying
heads with from twenty to fifty flowers. I did not
notiee auy difference in the flowers, and while it
may be possible that this giant is nothing but a
"Sequoia" amongst its kind, it is plain that the
two varieties are widely different in appearance.

Lilium Washingtonianum, Kell.— High upon the
ridges, exposed to storms from east and west, in
soil of scautness, and dry almost as the granite from
which it derivss its existence, there grows the
queen of the Lilies of the Sierras, L. Washing-
tonianum. Bands of sheep and cattle trot by on
their way to the sweet meadows of the alpine
region, and no herb, no limb of recent growth may
be detected other thau the bitter-barked Aspen or
the prickly Snowbrush. I write of the ridge of the
spurs bridging from the foot-hills to the snow-
fields, as it appears in July. Under the shelter of
the impenetrable Snowbrush, Ceauothus cordu-
latus, this Lily begins its growth at the time that
the first bands of sheep start for the mountains.
After the "hoofed locusts" have passed, aud
quietuess again reigns on tiie ridge, interrupted
only by the clatter of the horses' hoofs as the stock-
men go back and forth to their ranges, then this
Lily stretches its stately head from under the
Thorns, and develops its fragrant flowers in the
first week of August. They are white ; and while
I have been told about spotted ones— so spotted, in
fact, as to be entirely set with rich maroou on the
inside of their petals— I know them from the
Sierra of Amador aud alpine counties only witli
very tiny spots, and sueh tiny spots 1 have found
on flowers only now and then. But the plants are
grand in their stand, their tall stalks as high as
5 to 7 feet, and hanging out to the gentle breeze
from two to twelve flowers. Emigrants passed
along the ridge I mention for years and years, stock-
men followed them, and bands of cattle made this
region their home ever after ; therefore, it is likely
that this Lily may have been much more common
iu early days than now. Be that as it may, the
plants I encountered are well protected from any
attack by man or beast ; aud as we follow along the
ridge, where the water must be packed for as many
as twelve miles of travel, there holds guard this
stately flower of our Sierras, delighting all as they
pass either on their way to the valleys where the
Lilium pardalinum is scattered about the winter
homes of the settlers, or to where the ring of a
hundred bells from the sleek necks of cattle add
charm to the region where the tiny Lilium parvum
grows along streams aud precipices. Geo. Hansen
in " Ei"ythea."

Scotland.

— ■»■ ■

FORESTRY AS A PROFESSION FOE THE

NATIVES ()K IMUA, &c.
The Edinburgh University has recently been
favoured by three lectures by Sir Dietrich Brandis,
Ex-Iuspector-General of the Forests of India, on
the former subject, delivered iu the Conveyancing
Class-room of the University ; these lectures were
of the most instructive character as to the area,

vital importance, and mode of managing our Indian
forests.

The forestry elates cover some tifty million
acres, while the duties of the Civil Service ex-
tend over 010 million acres, or 965,000 square
miles. The Indian Empire, like others, is
divided into provinces. Including the two Presi-
dencies of Madias aud Bombay, India is divided
mto eight large provinces and five smaller ones ;
iu the whole there are 234 civil districts, each
under a district officer, sometimes called a collector,
at others a district commissioner. Besides these,
there are a variety of other appointments— com-
missioners of divisions, settlement officers, and
secretaries. These appointments iu all numbering
824, are held by members of the Covenanted Indian
Civil Service. Dr. Brandis spoke in the highest terms
of the management of the forests, and the wisdom
and prudence of the Government. Some of the
fruits of the Civil Service Commission in 1886 were
the raising of the age of candidates at the open
examination held in Loudon. Duriug the five
years from 1894 to 1S9S inclusive, out of a total of
383 successful candidates, only thirty were natives
of India.

The commission also advised the division of
the Civil Service into three great branches — the
judicial, the provincial, and the subordinate ser-
vice. He pointed out that the officers in charge of
such sub-divisions of districts as Myokir, Sahis-
dara, were unfortunately classed as subordinate
officers. This was not the right position for an
officer responsible for the government of 000 square
miles, with a population of three and a half millions.

Contrasting the organisation of the public service
in India with that of Germany, the lecturer made
a strong appeal iu favour of getting the highest
classes of native Indians to take a more prominent
part in the development and better management
of the forests, concluding a series of stimulating
ami instructive lectures with the wise words of
Lord Roberts in the House of Commons to the
effect, "that the key to India is not to be sought
for at Herat or Kandahar. It is to be found iu
the prosperity aud contentment of the people.
The blessings of pre >eress which will become greater
when the natives are more closely identified with
the Government aud forest management in India.
Upon the wise solution of this question largely
depeuds the maintenance of the British Empire iu
India.'' D. T. F.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. n. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart-, Clare Lawn. East Sheen.

Cattleya Lawrenceana, now iu bloom, is some-
what difficult of cultivation. Give water sparingly
until root action is established. C, Lawrenceana
being native to a low tropical region, the plants
should be placed in the East Indian-house just
before making their growths, aud when this is
completed they may be returned to the warm eud
of the Cattleya house.

Dendrobium Falconeri — The cultural treatment
frequently afforded I his Dendrobium teuds to encou-
rage growth rather than a free-flowering habit.
At the present season it is possible to obtain
imported clumps, which should be immediately
fixed in small pans or baskets, allowing the much-
branched pseudo-bulbs to be pendent, and only
using just sufficient peat aud sphagnum-moss to
cover the drainage. When this has been doue,
suspend the plants in a light and airy position in
the Cattleya-house, and syringe them dady. After
many roots have been made it is good practice to
dip the plants bodily iu the water-tank for a short
time every morning until growth has ceased.
Watering after this must be done more sparingly
until in winter the plants will ouly need sufficient
to maintain the pseudo-bulbs iu a plump condition.
D. X Venus, a hybrid from D. Falconeri, requires
very similar treatment, but I would not dip this
plant at any season of the year.

Cochlioda Boezliana may be grown in baskets
or pans, with a rooting medium of peat and sphag-
uum-moss, the best position for them being above
the Masdevallias, where they should be suspended.
Any surfacing the plants may require should be
done at once. They grow freely duriug the summer,
and require at that season a goodly supply of water,
which afterwards must be much decreased. C. rosea,
C vuleanica, and C. v. grandiflora are best grown
in pots in company with Odoutoglossum crispum.

Palumbina Candida. — This quaint-flowered plant
now requires attention ; it is best grown in pots or
pans, aud owing to the downward tendency of the
rhizomes, the plants should be raised considerably
above the rim of the receptacles. A moist, shady
position at the warm eud of the cool-house suits
it best. Water sparingly, except during active
growth.

Remarks on. Temperatures, tic. — The following
are suitable (shade) temperatures for the various
structures. East Indian-house 75 by day, reced-
ing to OS iu the early morning. Cattleya-house
0S° by day, falling to 03° by morning. The cool
and intermediate-houses will now need very little
fire-heat to maintain the requisite degree of warmth.
Each house will need a thorough damping down
every morning so soon as the temperatures have
risen a few points, and in most cases again in
the afternoon, but for some time yet this will
depend on outside conditions. The warm-houses
should become comparatively dry for a time about
noon each day, but the cooler ones may be always
given abundance of moisture, because the circula-
tion of air in them is greater. The East Indian-
house may be shut up early iu the afternoon, but
the others will require abundant ventilation duriug
the day, and some also at night. The quantity
afforded at any particular time must depend upon
the conditions of the weather. Ventilation should
be admitted from the shelter id side of a house
during the prevalence of wiuds.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. SrRUGNELl., Gardener to the Risht lien. W. II. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

The Early Peach-house. — Where the custom
obtaius of allowing Peaches to become perfectly ripe
upou the trees, it will be necessary to employ fish-
nets, or a good layer of clean straw spread over
the floor, to prevent damage to any that may fall.
The nets should be suspended from a convenient
overhead position, and fastened to the trellises at
the base of the trees. No such precautions are
necessary, however, if the gardener makes a point
of examining the ripening fruits regularly, and
removing those sufficiently matured to the fruit-
room. A gentle pressure by the forefinger applied
to the fruit uear the stem will determine the state
of ripeness ; and Teaches gathered before they are
dead ripe, and stood in a cool room for a few days,
are better in flavour and superior in every way to
those that are permitted to remain upon the trees
until they fall. But the greatest care is needful in
the handling of Beaches, particularly if they have
to be despatched a distance, as they are extremely
liable to be blackened by bruises. Syringing of the
trees must be discontinued when the fruits com-
mence to soften, but the borders must still be daily
damped down, and regularly afforded the necessary
root-waterings. The ripeuiug of the fruits will be
hurried and premature if the roots be permitted to
lack moisture. If the temperature of the hon e be
slightly lower at the time of fruit-gathering, the
trees will be benefited, and the altered con-
dition will tend to increased quality in the fruits.
A little ventilation may be afforded at night wheu
the weather is mild.

In flu Second Peacli-house the fi nits will be
passing through the stoning period, a time when
severe forcing is extremely hurtful. Weakly trees,
whether from age or over-bearing, will need stimu-
latiug food, which may be furnished by a dredging
of dry chemical manures, or natural liquid-manures
obtained from the cow-yard or stable, diluted
according to its strength. In all cases it must be
carefully ascertained if the borders contain the
degree of moisture necessary to the trees. Do not
neglect to syringe the trees daily, for if red-spider
get a foothold, it is not an easy matter to effectually
dislodge them. Tie the new growths in position,
and expose the fruits to all the sunshine possible.
Do not permit the growths to become crowded. If
there be not sufficient space for them, cither piuch
out their points, or remove them altogether. Very

May 6, 1899.]

THE fiABDENERS, CHRONICLE

270

strong shoots may be pinched, afterwards tying-in
the best-placed lateral growths that result from the
stopping. In the case of well-furnished trees, the
better plan is to remove ' these vigorous growths
altogether. If green-fly be noticed, fumigate the
trees, or syringe tbem with an iusecticide.

Successional Houses. — The temperature and con-
ditions necessary to trees in later houses will depend
on circumstances, and the period when their fruits
will be required. In gardens where a good supply
can lie obtained from out-of-door walls in August
and September, the crops in the l'each-houses may
be arranged to ripen at other times. Late varieties
that may be expected to ripeu in September and
October should be kept as cool as circumstances
permit, for the later that Peaches and Nectarines
may be had in October the better. In the late house,
thinning of the fruits should be done with con-
siderable care. It is not advisable to reduce the
crop to an average one until it can be seen with
certainty which fruits are perfectly set. Thin out
the shoots to the number required to furnish the
trellis. Aphides, which in cool-houses are often
troublesome at this stage, must be attacked
before the leaves have become badly curled.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. FoRTESCTTS, Esq., Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

The Disbudding of Fruit-trees should be con-
tinued at short intervals until all unnecessary
growths have been removed. As Peaches and Nec-
tarines are earliest among wall-fruits in starting
into growth, most of the surplus shoots have
probably been removed. Stop any extra strong-
growiug shoots, and retain one or more that will
start from the base of such as are stopped.

Apricots. — Wheu continuing to disbud these, lake
care to reserve any conveniently placed growths ou
the front of the branches for the formation of
spurs, as the Apricot fruits freely on spurs, as will
as on wood of the previous year's growth. In
addition to these, and besides the growths on the
points of the shoots, one at the base of each should
be allowed to remaiu. Take away a few of the
others, at intervals of a few days, until the work IS
completed. Where any signs of loss of shoots are
apparent from gumming or other causes, a suffi-
ciency of young growths should be retained, to till
up eventually the space that will thus become
vacant.

Sweet Cherries, Plums, and Pears, should be

treated in a somewhat similar manner, removing
the weakest and worst-placed growths, and retain-
ing only sufficient to till the spaees without over-
crowding. The points of shoots that have already
tilled their allotted space should be stopped at the
second or third leaf.

Out-of-door Vines. — Remove surplus growths, and
leave one shoot only to each foot of rod.

Thinning Pear-blossom. — Iu the majority of
gardens Pear-trees are blooming most profusely,
and in such cases the blooms will need to be
thinned. Weakly trusses may be removed alto-
gether, and others thinned down to two or three
fruits, retaining those that are the strongest and
best placed.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Chrysanth mums. — The early-flowering varieties
may now be planted out. They succeed best
wheu planted ou a south border, and if mixed
with other plants, a sunny position will lie
necessary, as the stems require to become
well matured to produce good flowers. Ordi-
nary garden soil will be fouud rich enough for
them. A distance of 3 feet should be allowed
between each plant. Kyecroft Glory, Yellow Lady
Selborne, Yellow L'ami Condorchet, Fiberta,
Golden Madame Desgrauges, Mrs. Hawkins, and
Golden Drop, are the best of the yellows ; Myehett
White, extra fine ; Madame Desgranges, La Neige,
Sieur Melaine, St. Marie Vierge, excellent whites ;
Captain Webb, Early Blush, St. Croutts, Trevenna,
pinks ; Captain Nemo, Anastachio, Adrastes,
Madame Picoul, Mons. Bredenner, purples ; Mons.
Hoste, Mons. Wm. Holmes, Precoeite (very tine),
Souvenir de Madame Menicr, Jules Lagravcre,
Mons. Henri Jacotot, Mons. Maxime de la Roche-
terie, crimsons.

Bqses. — If aphis has made an appearance on the
young growths of the Roses, obtain some extract
of Quassia, dilute it with water, and spray them,
thoroughly wetting both sides of the leaves. This
will destroy the flies, and leave afterwards a bitter-
ness that is objectionable to them. Tobacco-
powder is also an effective remedy. If any of the
leaves bo curled, they will probably be fouud to
contain a maggot, which shoul I be squeezed hot in ien
the thumb and finger. Rose-trees that were not
top-dressed in the autumn, and show signs of
weakly growth, should be given about a quarter of
a pound of dissolved bones to a square yard of soil ;
afterwards giving the roots a thorough watering.

Hollies. — Hay is the best time to transplant
species of Hollies. First select a position, and
make a hole large enough to take the ball ;
then move the specimen, and lay out the roots in a
natural position, adding to them as the work pro-
ceeds some tine leaf-mould or peat. When the
work has been completed, afford a good watering
to settle the soil among the ro its, ami finally mulch
the surface with stable-manure. Sei dlings from
two to three years old that have been raised in
beds in the nursery should be transplanted, IS in.
from plant to plant, and in rows 2 feet apart. It
is always best to keep smaller plants of the varie-
ties growing on, especially the golden and silver
variogatcd kinds, as some years must pass before
i In--, become good specimens. The male and female
(monoecious) flowering varieties are the most com
pact in habit ; the hermaphrodite flowering varie-
ties, if not kept continually cut back, soon grow
woody, and the branches near the stem become
bare of foliage. All Hollies produce much bettor
foliage, and become more dense, if pruned just
before makiug new growth. Any bushes that have
been neglected should !"■ nit well back, as they
will soon grow from the end of the cut, and
invariably break further back in the stem.

Ivy growing against buildings or on walls should
now be clipped back ; young leaves will soon grow,
and if kept close in this manner, the Ivy will not
be blown away from the wall by the wind, or
weighed down in winter by

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H MiiiMiiii, Gard Ea Lo afford,

Wrotbam P i

fi '. -The main crop should now be sown, unl
there !><■ a doubt that the roots may grow target

than wished. If this be the case it will In-
better to sow one half now, and the remainder
after a fortnight. Cheltenham ( rreen-Top is a finely
flavoured variety, and is less attacked by sparrows
than the leaves of the darker coloured kinds.
Varieties of Beet arc very numerous, but Dell's
Crimson, Praguell's Exhibition, Cheltenham Green-
Top, and Egyptian Turnip Rooted are still
favourites. The ground for this crop should be
deeply worked and brought into tine tilth. If
it be too poor the roots will be ill-shaped and
inferior in quality, but it should not lie more
than moderately rich. Sow the seeds thinly
in drills 18 inches apart ami 2 inches deep, and
do not allow the young plants to grow too
large before they are thinned out to S inches
apart. Young plants of the Turnip Rooted variety
just above the ground should bo repeatedly
dusted with soot and ashes to preserve them from
sparrows and slugs. When living in Kent, I made
use of the sweepings from the hop-kilus, and found
it to answer first-rate for this purpose.

French Beans. — Sow a few rows upon a warm
border, putting the seeds S inches distant one from
the other, and the rows 14 inches asunder. ■ Make
the drills about 3 inches deep, and plant only the
earlier varieties such as Ne Plus Ultra, and Pale
Dun. This being a chance crop, another sowing
should be made about the middle of the month,
aud they may lie fit for use at the same time as
those sown now. French Beans may also be sown
in pots, and encouraged under glass. They can
then be planted out at the foot of a south wall, or
on a well-sheltered border, when the plants have
become a foot in height. From such plants good
gatherings of tender pods may be had several days
in advance of those sown outside.

Scarlet Runner Beans. — The trenches should be
prepared in readiness for sowing Runner Beans.
Make the trenches similar to those intended for
Celery, with the exception that more manure may
be dug in. When digging out the trenches, replace

the bottom soil with the top spit. For many years
I have sown the first batch of Scarlet Runner Beans
about May 14.

Early BnCssek Sprouts: — Plants raised from seeds
sown at the same time as Early Cauliflowers will
now be large enough to be planted out in the open.
Select a good piece of land, that has been either
treuched or deeply dug ; draw the drills 4 inches
deep and 3 feet apart from each other. The plants
should be 2 feet asunder in the rows. Lift the
plants with care, and do not expose them long to
the air. If the ground be subject to grub, or the
plants are likely to club, give a good dressing with
soot, and wheu the plants have been put out, to
settle the soil about the root, give a good soaking
with soot-water. Repeat this at intervals. It is
said that water containing a little dissolved salt is
a good preventative, but this should be used with
care.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Ladv How IRD
de Walhen, St. James's House, Malvern.

Bougainvillea <iiaJa-a should be repotted when
the young shoots have become 2 or 3 inches in
length. Let the pots be sufficiently large to admit
of an inch of new soil being worked around the
roots. The compost may consist of three parts
loam, one part peat or loaf-soil, and plenty of
coarse silver - sand. After potting, the plants
should be placed in a brisk heat for a short time to
encourage root action, after which they may be
transferred to an intermediate-house or warm
greenhouse. Except iu the case of newly-potted
plants, shading should not be given. In cases
where the plants have made new growths very
thickly, overcrowding should be prevented by the
early removal of the weaker shoots.

Cytisus racemosa. As these plants pass out of
flower, cut them back aud place them in a house
having a warm, moist atmosphere ; and when they
have started into new growth, repot them, using a
compost of loam, a little leaf-soil or peat, and sand.
As the growth progresses, the amount of air should
be increased ; and upon the completion of the
growth, tin plants may be stood out of doors.

/,'. inwardtia Linum)lrigynum ami /,'. tetragynum.
—Cuttings of these very showy yellow winter
flowering plants may l.e inserted in pots tilled with
sandy soil, and plunged in a hot bed or propaga
ting frame. Wheu rooted, they should be potted -
oil into small pots, and grown on iu an intermediate
temperature until the summer, when they may be
transferred to a cold pit or frame. The plants
should be freely syringed, in order to keep down
red-spider. Three parts fibrous loam with a little
leaf-soil and some silver-sand is a suitable compost
in which to grow Reinwardtias, and 5-inch or
flinch pots are large enough to use for the final
potting.

Miscellaneous. — Do not unduly hurry Lilium
speciosum and L. auratum. Introduce bulbs into
a cool house for a succession of flowers. Keep the
plants free from green-fly by dipping them in an
insecticide-, or by fumigating them. Repot Justicias
into larger pots sufficiently early to prevent them
from flowering prematurely ; and pinch out tin-
points of these plants, and of Ruellias, Impatiens,
Bouvardias, Heliotropes. &c.

THE APIARY.

By ExrERT.
Artificial /'alien. — If the weather becomes warm,
pollen should be freely gathered now, and
failing a natural supply, Pea-flour may be
given in its stead. For inducing bees to
take Pea-flour nothing excels an old skep, from
which the combs have been cut out. After being
wanned at the tire, its odour will attract the hi i
to it very soon, and they will take the flour — scat-
tered on shavings — at a great rate.

II'. ah Stack*. -The result of the first spring over-
hauling may reveal the fact that some stocks of
bees known to be badly provided with food last
back end will now be dead, or will have become so
reduced in numbers as to be still broodless, with
less than a pint of bees in the hive. It is useless
tinkering with such stocks singly, they cauuot be
made strong hi time to be of much use, and there-
fore, two or more of them must lie united by the
method usually adopted.

280

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 6, 1399.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers. — Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, £c; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

TUESDAY,

FRIDAY,
SATURDAY,

TI."K*D.\V,

WEDNESDAY,

FRIDAY,

„, . ( Royal Horticultural Society of
M" -\ Ireland, Meeting.
May 12— Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.
May 13— Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

SALES.

I Important Sale of Established Or-
chids, at Millbank, Wilders-
May '.> -i pool, Warrington, by order of
Mr. W. Bolton, by Protheroe &
\ Morris (two days).
/■Japanese and English-grown Lilies,
.. 1n I Gladioli, Greenhouse Palms, Be-
"I gonias, &c, at. Protheroe &
^ Morris' Rooms.
? J Imported and Established Orchids,

May 1!

at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period April 23 to April 29, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

1899.

a
z

fc.
o

z

o

H
O
H

a

a

Tem

PERATURE OF
THE AlR.

i
g
<

Tempera-
ture OF THE
Soil at 9 a.m.

S5
O

e

<

0

O

3

At 9 a.m.

A i

£ SB

« H 5
o 3

•g

PQ
u

a

3
W

4^

to

•a

a

o

R

<

H
W
o

J

deg. deg. deg. deg. ins. deg.

deg.

.leg. deg.

Son. 23

S.S.E.

:.()"_' I3-S52-4 40 6 0 02 4i'.-!> 4 7 ■ ! >

47'2 34-2

Mon. 24

S.S.W.

.01'3 47052-8 111 0-29 JS-.-.47".'

47-2 41-0

Tubs. 26

s.s.w.

51-.9 60-9 55-6 46-2 014 49-148-1

47-5 40-2

Wed. 2i:

ff.N.W.

50-9 4(i-5.j4(>

43-4

49-4

48-5

47-5

37-0

Tuu. 2"

N.

53-0

48-559-9

39-9

0-03

49-5

48-7

47-S

31-1

Fri. 2S

S.W.

54-8

53-2 60-5

16-9

... 5l'3J49-l

47-S

41-5

Sat. 29

W.S.W.

55-2

51-5 59-9

50-6

0-11 52;24S'fl

47-'.i

44-S

Means...

52-5

48-8I56-5

44-5

Tot.

0-59 48-1

48-5

47-.

43'6

Remarks

— The weather for the past week has been remark

able for c

old rains and winds, with bright sunshine at rare

intervale.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 53'2\

Actual Temperatures : —

London.— May 3 (12 p.m.): Max. 5<i5; Min. 54-.
Provinces.— jl/ay 3 ,6 p.m.) : Max. 5S° ; MiD. 43°, Shetland.

Diseased
Malmaison

Carnations.

It is not a little remarkable that
the two diseases which are so dis-
astrous to Malmaison Carnations,
and the cause of so great annoyance to
growers, should vary so greatly in their effects
on plants cultivated respectively in the south of
England and in Scotland. In the latter country
the fungoid growth called Helniinthosporium
echinulatum, which, vegetating inside the Car-
nation leaf, and 1 misting the epidermis, reveals
itself in dark-brown powdery spots, and which
is so destructive to plants in south Britain, is
comparatively unknown. We believe it is a fact
that few who cultivate Malmaisons in the north
have ever had practical experience of this
disease.

Equally remarkable are the effects resulting
from the presence of the Carnation eel-worm,

Tylenchus, while southron growers are able to
make light of its presence in the north, its appear-
ance is always dreaded, because at any moment
it may assume a form so virulent as to lead to
the destruction of whole stocks, and even
healthy-looking layers may become incapable of
producing roots. It is least destructive in its
effects in the case of the pink variety, exerts an
influence a little more baneftil on the original
blush ; while its dealings with Lady Middleton,
the striped form, is at once treacherous and
fatal, inasmuch as plants in the flush of health
during summer may long previous to winter
be fit only for cremation. There are some who
declare that no stock of Malmaisons, however
healthy in appearance, is possessed of immunity
from the attack of eel-worm. At the same
time, it is just a little suspicious that plants
bought and sold as free from disease can seldom,
if ever, be depended upon to remain so for any
length of time.

It will be gathered from the above remarks
that Malmaison disease, as referred to in the
southern parts of these islands, and also, we
believe, in Ireland, is an organism different
from that spoken of in the north. The
former is in a degree amenable to such
treatment as washing continually repeated, or
to the application of fungicides. The latter, so
far, has resisted successfully all attempts to
destroy it unless its host is also sacrificed. The
drastic measure of destroying infected stocks to
be replaced subsequently by healthy plants, has
often, indeed, been recommended, but it has
certain drawbacks, not the least formidable of
which is the undoubted uncertainty of being
able to introduce disease-fi-ee plants in the
room of those destroyed. So long, therefore,
as it is possible to keep plants in a condition
fairly healthy by means of annual renewal from
layers, it would be unwise to go to extreme
lengths.

Gardeners might take a hint from the market-
growers who occasionally infuse new blood into
their stock by purchasing from their neighbours;
and also, say every second or third year, intro-
duce a lesser or greater number of plants from
a source reputedly healthy, and as far as
possible propagate only from these. Bought-in
Carnations, as a rule, do better for at least a
couple of years than plants from home-
layers. The condition of the layers, or rather
the quality of the layers themselves, is a
matter of no slight importance. One thing is
quite clear, that badly-infected [.hints should
not be propagated. As soon as these are
bloomed-out it will always prove true wisdom
to burn them. Very strong layers are, again,
less to be depended on than those which, while
healthy, are by no means so vigorous. And of
these, short layers are better than long ones,
for it is a curious habit of the eel-worm that it
prefers old leaves to lodge in, and therefore
even in the case of plants knowingly infected it
is possible to secure, by taking short tips, fairly
good layers. Early-layering is also a commend-
able practice, and one that is worth while to
make an unvarying part of routine management

The treatment of the plants has an undoubted
effect on the ncmatoid. Because, just as
it seems to prefer a leaf that has been in
existence for a prolonged period, so does it
multiply most rapidly in plants that from any
cause have experienced a check to growth. The
check, for example, may arise from over-
watering, or from a condition of an opposite
nature during hot weather ; from being too
much shaded in winter or spring ; or later,
from being exposed to strong sunshine. It is

also known to propagate rapidly subsequent to
yearling plants being potted-on for blooming a
second year. To escape this danger, growers
have the plants repotted from 5 to 8 - inch
pots in spring, a practice that can be recom-
mended only where the most careful watering
is subsequently followed.

There is further the question of what mate-
rial is best to use as a compost. It is well
known that eel-worm finds a congenial home in
Grasses, and in order to destroy the organism
in turf, it is only prudent to bake it pre-
vious to mixing it in composts for Malmaisons.
In any case, the turf ought to lie at least six
months before using. The sittings from Orchid
peat is a safe material to lighten loam, and
these, with the addition of sand, to keep the
compost open, is all that need be employed.
Dung is unnecessary, and is better left out.

A simple unmanured compost like the above
must, of course, be supplemented during the
growth of the plants by an efficient fertilising
agent. Manure-water, prepared from animal
matter, should not be used ; nor any fertiliser
in a dry state, about which there is a sus-
picion that it may contain blood or other
animal matter. Soot is valuable, though slow
in action. But, on the whole, there is perhaps
no better food than a mixture composed of
dry superphosphate of lime three parts, and
sulphate of ammonia one and a -half to two
parts ; a little of this applied at weekly or
fortnightly intervals to the surface of the soil
is at once effective, and perfectly safe.

Owing, no doubt, to the wet, dull weather in
the early part of winter, "spot" (Uredo
dianthis) has been present on Malmaisons to an
unusual extent this season in the north. This
disease is easy of control if a diy, airy pit is at
command, and infected leaves or even portions
of leaves removed as the disease appears. By
spring, collections ought to have been cleared of
the pest. The past winter's experience points
to the danger of keeping Malmaisons too long in
frames ; and perhaps, as a rule, they would
always be better to be treated as greenhouse
plants.

Linnean Society of London (April 20,
1899). Hr. A. Ui NTiiKH, F. R. S;, President, in the
chair.— Mr. .1. B. Carruthers, F.L.S., communi-
cated some observations on the localised uature of
the parental characters in hybrid fruits of Tlieobi-oma
Cacao, on which some criticism was otfered by Rev.
G. Henslow. Mr. H. H. \V. Pearson, B.A., read a
paper on the "Botany of the Ceylon ' Patauas,'"
large savannahs in the forests at the same sub-
tropical levels, and with the same climate, though
not peculiar to Ceylon. These " patanas " appear
to maintain their limits for long periods ; but
whether they thus exist on account of the burning
of the grass in autumn, or by reason of some pecu-
liarity in the climate, or exposure, is a question on
which some difference of opinion has been expressed.
The Rev. O. Pickard Cambridge, M.A., F.R.S.,
communicated a new list of British and Irish
spiders. After reviewing the existing literature ou
the subject, and the materials which had come to
hand since 1881 for a new and revised list of
species, the author pointed out that the present
paper was uot intended merely for the use of
authors or collectors interested in local faunas, but
to give (with reference to primary authorities) the
spiders at present known to belong to Great Britain
and Ireland, leaving the question of their distri-
bution, abundance, or scarcity, to be dealt with at
some future time, when the present scanty number
of spider-collectors might have iuci-eascd. At pre-
sent, large areas of varied natural characters, in
some cases whole counties, and many maritime
districts, were entirely unexplored, so far as the
Arachnology is concerned.

May 6, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

281

Fig. 104. — cyfripedium stonei platyt.enium. (see f. 273.)
(From the Collection of Sir Trevor Lawrence, Dart.)

282

THE GARDE NEB'S' CUE ONI CLE.

[May 0, 1S99.

"Botanical Magazine. "—The May number

contains descriptions and coloured illustrations of
the following : —

Nicotiana syh'estris, Spcgaz. — A native of moun-
tain valleys in the province of Salta, Argentina.
It is a tall, coarse-looking, sticky, herbaceous
plant, with the upper leaves sessile, pandurate, and
with numerous tubular white (lowers iu dense ter-
minal panicled cymes. Each tlower is about 3 in.
long. Kew ; t. 7652.

Cyrtantlms parviflorus, Baker, in Gard. C'lu-on.,
1891, i., 104. — A small-flowered species with orange-
scarlet flowers. It is a native of the Cape Colony ;
t. 7053.

Alnus nitida, Endlicber. — A West Himalayan
species with cordate ovate-lanceolate leaves, and
long, drooping male catkins, bearing the flowers in
riugs, separated by interspaces ; female flowers in
erect obtuse catkins. Kew ; t. 7654.

Dahlia Maximiliana, Hemsley, in Gard. Ghron.,
1879, xii., 525.— A tall-growing species with mauve
flowers, flowering after the Chrysanthemum, and
therefore a valuable addition to winter-flowering
conservatory plants ; t. 7655.

Veronica Dieffenbachi, Bentham, see Gard.
Ghron., 1898, ii., p. 154, fig. 41 ; t. 765G.

The Chelsea Garden. — We are now enabled
to give the names of the representatives of the
various bodies who will form the Committee of
Management. It would seem as if the committee
were greatly too cumbrous to manage so small a
garden, with so limited a revenue. It contains, more-
over, manj' who are hot gardeners or botanists. The
provision for instruction in systematic botany — one
of the greatest wants of the time — does not seem
adequate. The representatives appointed by the
trustees of the London Parochial Charities are the
Hon. Mrs. Evelyn Cecil, the Right Hou. Sir M. E.
Grant Duff, Mr. W. Hayes Fisher, M.P., Mr. R. B.
Litchfield, Mr. L. 15. Sebastian, Sir Owen Roberts,
Mr. Sidney Webb, the Rev. K. H. Hadden. and
Mr. Evan Spieer. The Treasury has appointed Mr.
A. B. Freeman-Mitford, C. B. ; and the Lord Presi-
dent of the Council has appointed the Right Hon.
Sir Herbert Maxwell, M.P. Dr. D. H. Scott,
F. U.S., of Kew Gardens, is the representative of
the Royal Society ; and Professor S. H. Vines,
F.R.S. , of Oxford Botanic Gardens, of the Senate
of Loudon University. Mr. J. R. Upton has been
appointed by the Society of Apothecaries ; and Mr.
Michael Carteighe by the Pharmaceutical Society.
The appointment by the Technical Education
Board of the London County Council has not yet
been completed, but it is understood that a com-
mittee have recommended the appointment of the
chairman of the board, Mr. T. A. Organ. Earl
Cadogon, or any person to be delegated by him, is
an i.r officio member of the committee. Mr. II.
Howard Batten is acting as hou, secretary to the
garden, and any communications on the subject
may for the present be addressed to him, at
3, Temple Gardens, Temple, B.C.

P/eony Disease. — I>r. Ritzema Bos mentions

a fungus, Botrytis paoni.e, as the cause of disease
iu the P.-eouy. All affected leaves should be burnt.
As the fungus spawn is internal, external applica-
tions are of comparatively little use, unless as
preventatr <

Belgian Colonial Horticulture. — A
society lias been formed in Belgium under the
name of l'Horticole Coloniale. Ltd., to develop
the colonial resources of Belgium. The capital
is 2,400,000 francs (£96,000)". The society is
to absorb the "Horticulture Internationale" of
Brussels, as well as the establishment of M. LuciBN
Linden at Moortcbeeke. A vast colonial establish-
ment is to he founded at Linthout, for raising
economic plants in large quantities. The new
society will be managed by M. Lucien Linden.
Among the shareholders, we observe the names of
Madame Linden, M. A. Madobx, the Bleiohroder

Bauk at Berlin, M. Van Lansberge, formerly
Governor - General of the Netherlands Indies ;
Count Admen d'Oultremont, and others.

The History of the Laurel-Cherry.—
M. E. Roze contributes to the March issue of the
Journal de la Societi Natkmah d' Horticulture dt
France some notes on the history of the Laurel-
Cherry, commouly, but erroneously called Cherry-
Laurel, or Primus Lauro-cerasus. He remarks
that, according to Charles de l'Escluse, the
plant was to be found towards the end of the
sixteeutli century not only in Vienna but also at
Nuremburg, iu the garden of Joachim Camerarius,
to whom he had sent it, but that this shrub
has been previously planted in the garden of
Prince DoRIA, at Genoa. It was cultivated iu
Switzerland from the beginning of the seventeenth
century, as Jean Bauhin, who died in 1616, informs
us that the Laurel-Cherry had fruited at Lucerne,
and that he had himself sown some of the seed at
Montbeliard, but without success. However the
introduction of this ornamental shrub into France
may have been effected, the Laurel-Cherry was
found, in 1636, in the Jardin Royale des Plontes
Medicinales, Paris (now the Museum of Natural
History), as it is mentioned in the catalogue of the
garden published that same year by Guv he la
BroSSE. It is met with again in 1080, according
to the catalogue of the same garden, attributed to
Sherard. And it is evident that it had time to
become distributed over Frauce during the whole
of the seventeenth century. Then, Duhamel it
Monceau, iu his Traitd de* Arbres et ArbusCes qui
se cnltin at 'ii Franci en Pleim Tim (1755), does
not fail to speak of the Laurel-Cherry, lie tolls us
that there existed at that time, iu additiou to the
primitive type with green leaves, sorts with foliage
variegated with yellow aud with green.

The Fertilisation of Plants. -M. Guig-
nard presented to the Academy of Science on
April 4, a paper on "The Processes of Fertilisa
t ion as observed in Liliuin Martagon." The paper
is very technical, aud can only be followed in its
eutirety by specialists. In the pollen-tube, as is
now well known, are formed two cells, one vegeta-
tive, one reproductive. Iu the embryo-sac also ate
various nuclei, one of which is called the polar
nucleus, as well as groups of cells at either end.
As soon as the pollen-tube penetrates the embryo-
sac, one of the two male nuclei unites with the
polar nucleus, the other with the ensphere or egg-
cell. The male nuclei elongate into the form of a
hook or crescent, ultimately becoming spirally
twisted. Although uo cilia are visible, M. GuiGNARD
does not hesitate to call this au " antherozoid "
from the close analogy there is between this and
the male reproductive bodies of the higher crypto-
gamous plants and of some gymuosperms (Ginkgo,
Cycas). In summing up. M. GuiGNARD says that
the essential phenomenon observed, by M. Xawas-
ciiix and himself, consists iu a two-fold sexual
union iu the embryo sac, the one resulting iu the
formation of the embryo, the other developing into
the albumen or perisperm iu which is stored up
the food required by the embryo. If these results
be confirmed, the gap between the vascular
cryptogams and the flowering plants is again
bridged over. The albumen, as well as the
embryo, thus seems to be the result of a sexual
process, which is quite a novel idea. The varia-
tions in the number of the chromosomes, suggests
to us a possible explanation of the phenomena
of "sporting '' aud of variation generally. It seems
that the life-history of the flowering plants and all
that it implies, must be studied in the development
of the embryo-sac and its contents. These
researches must therefore be made by the few, for
not many can be endowed with the neoe sarj
skill or material requirements.

Large Trees at Pitfirrane, Fife.— The

lauds of Pitfirrane, in the west of the " kingdom "
of Fife, have been held by the family of Halkett
for the past 500 years. This may to some i I o

account for the number of fine old trees which
adorn the spacious park around their ancestral
home. The present owner, Sir Arthur, takes
a lively interest in arboriculture, aud is justly
proud of the sylvan features of his park. Tall
aud handsome examples of broad-leaved trees
are admirably grouped ; aud the well-balanced,
umbrageous heads of many single specimens in the
open park are a striking feature in a beautiful
landscape. The girth measurements of some of the
finest stems of the trees have just been taken by
Sir Arthur, from which we learn that of ten Oaks
with grand boles, the largest girths 14 feet (i ins.,
and the average girth is 14 feet. Of ten Beeches,
the largest is 17 feet, aud the average 15 feet 4 ins. :
of ten Scots Elms, the largest is 20 feet 7 ins., and
the average 15 feet 4 ins. ; of ten Plaues (Syca-
mores), the largest is 17 feet 6 ins., and the
average 13 feet 6 ins. ; of seven Ashes, the largest
is 15 feet 5 ins., aud the average is 14 ft. A Lime
girths 15 feet, and an enormous Willow as much as
19 feet. All the measurements were taken at 3 feet
from the ground. The record is a good one, and
probably amoug the best that can be found in the
county of Fife, which is noted for its ancient family
mansions aud richly-wooded parks.

Destruction of Charlock. — Under the
auspices of the Essex Couuty Council, experiments
are being conducted on the destruction of charlock
iu field crops by sulphate of copper. The following
directions for spraying are given : Dissolve 5 lb. of
ground sulphate of copper (blue stone or blue
vitriol) iu '25 gallons of water. By means of a
spraying-machine, distribute this solution iu the
form of a fine spray over the crop. If applied
while the charlock is still young, on a still day,
and iu line weather, this quantity should be
sufficient for 1 acre.

The Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund.—

At a meeting of the committee, held on the 29th
ult.. the sum of £32 2s., inclusive of two annual
subscriptions for one guinea each, was received
from the Gardeners' Charity Guild, per Mr. G.
DEAN, as the result of the sinoking-concert held at
the Cannon Street Hotel on March 15 ; and six
members of the committee of the Guild were
placed on the list of life-voters,

Rose Show Fixtures in 1890.— The following

dates of Rose shows are in additiou to those noti-
fied ou p. '202, April 1. Mr. Edward Mawlky, of
Rosebank, Berkhamsted, Herts, who has kindly
supplied us with these particulars, will be glad to
receive notification of any Rose shows not included
in either list, or of any horticultural exhibitions
where Roses are made a leading feature. June 13
(Tuesday), Cambridge; June 21 (Wednesday), Isle
of Wight (Shankliu) ; June 28 (Wednesday), Maid-
stone, Reading, Richmond, and Ryde ; Juno 'J'.i
(Thursday), Sutton; .Inly 5 (Wednesday), Brock-
ham and Tnnbridge Wells; July 6 (Thursday),
Farniugham ; July 7 (Friday), Hereford; July 13
(Thursday), Bedale ; July 20 (Thursday), Sidcup ;
July 22 (Saturday), Newtou Mearns.

Apples from the Antipodes. — The officials

of the Orient Company have received information
stating that the Australia on her way with some
23.000 eases of fruit, and the Australia with
SSI II I more— a total of 31,800 cases.

■ A curious discovery has been made at

Chcsham, Bucks, by Mr. JOSEPH Hears. While
unpacking a box of Tasmanian Apples he found one
wrapped in paper, on which was written: "This
Apple was packed by Miss KATE PlETY, grand-
daughter of late THOMAS Piety, of Kent, England.
If any of you know their address, please seud it to
me at Derwent House Falls, New Tasmania. I
am very dark and good-lookiug, and would be
pleased to see any of you who come my way."
Some one iu Maidstone having heard the above
story, aud hearing that a niece of Mr. Thomas
I'm ii was still living in Maidstono, sought her out.

May 6, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

283

This proved to be a Mrs. Sarah Ann Brissende.v,
nee Sarah Ann Weight, of the Rose and Crown,
Maidstone.

Is Elevation Necessary in the Formation

OF ROCKERIES? — In the Botanic Gardens at Cam-
bridge, Mr. Lynch has placed pieces of stone upon
the ground level, and between them are planted
rock or alpine plants. Numerous species have
been used in this novel method, and the result has
led Mr. LYNCH to the conclusion that the slight
elevation obtained in most rockeries is not of value

is no doubt a more striking feature in a garden
than the plants would furnish when placed upon
the ground level. In a few casus also, the rockery
is of equal interest with the plants, that of Sir
Ciias. IsHAm's, for instance, at Lamport Hall,
figured in these pages on September 25, 1897.
But Mr. Lynch does not advise the sacrifice
of elevation in all rockeries, and states merely that
he is satisfied the slight degree thus obtained is of
no practical value to the plants. It is a matter
that many of our readers may try under their own
circumstances.

Fie. 105. — sir. haktlami's m.w NARCISSUS, (sjjii p. 2SL)

in the cultivation of alpine plants, but it inon asi a
very considerably the difficulties iu affording the
necessary water to the plants during dry weather.
But, of course, situations differ widely from each
other, and in every garden the conditions of soil,
&c. , are not so dry as at Cambridge. It would
seem that iu low and damp situations, the elevation
even afforded by an average rockery would help to
ameliorate the unsuitableuess of local conditions.
Apart from the question of necessity there remains
also that of effect, and a raised rockery, providing
the structure is placed together with taste, and
an appreciation for what is natural and congruous,

"FLORA OF Kent." — The above work, com-
prising an account of the flowering plants, Ferns,
&o., growing spontaneously iu Kent, with notes on
the topography, geology, and meteorology, and a
history of the botanical investigation of the county,
with tn-o maps, by Frederick Janson Hanbury,
F.L.S., author of An Illustrated Monograph of tin:
British Hieracia, and editor of The London Cata-
logue of British Plant*, &c, and Edward Shear-
burn Marshall, M.A., F.L.S., Vicar of Milford,
Surrey, is to be published almost immediately. It
will be an octavo volume of between 500 and COO
pages. It was commenced over twenty years ago,

when, for purposes of the Flora, the county was
divided iuto ten districts. Each of these districts
has been explored botanically, both by the authors
and by the many friends and contributors who
have helped to bring this work to its present
standard of completeness. In additiou to these
more recent observations, it will include all that
have been previously published, aud copious records
from the public and other herbaria which have
been consulted. There are two maps. The larger,
reduced from the ordnauce survey, shows the
divisions of the several botanical districts ; the
smaller is coloured geologically. Iu the introduc-
tion the topography of the county is described,
Separate sections being devoted to its botauy,
geology, and meteorology. The history of botanical
investigation iu the county is traced from the
sixteenth century onwards. A table, sliowiug the
distribution of each plant as regards its occurrence
in Essex, Middlesex, Surrey, and Sussex, with
complete lists of contributors and of the books and
herbaria quoted, are also given. The work will be
issued to subscribers. Orders may be sent to
l'i:i [trick J. Hanihtry, Plough Court, Lombard
Street, London, E.C.

Interesting to "Past" and Prospective
KEWITES. — During the present month a regulation
will come into effect obliging all young gardeners
employed in the Royal Gardens, Kew, to be
dressed in suits of blue serge. Previously, the
only rule affecting dress has applied to visitors to
the gardens, who for years have been forbidden
entrance to the establishment unless "decently"
clad. The gardener has worn fustian, broadcloth,
or cord, as his tastes have guided him.

Fern Hybrids. Mr. Ciias. T. Dkuery, 11,
Shaa Road, Acton, is preparing a paper on
" Hybrids and Crosses of British Ferns, and their
Varieties," for t lie forthcoming Conference at the
Royal Horticultural Society, aud would be glad to
receive fronds and evidence of crossed or hybridised
Ferns, for use in connection therewith.

The Thirty Thousand Dollar Carna-
tion is now in England, in the extensive collection
at Dover House, Roehamptou. Mr. PierpontMor-
GAN, who lias recently arrived iu this couutry from
the Slates, and whose admiration for all sections of
the Carnation, but particularly that of the Souvenir
de la Malmaison type, is well known, brought with
liini a quantity of blooms and a number of cuttings
of this variety, which, it will be remembered, is
known as Mrs. Thomas YV. Lawsou. The cuttings,
after travelling so many miles, are not over promising,
and -Mr. McLeod is not without doubt as to
whether he will be successful in rooting them, but
he may be trusted to establish them if it be possible.
In such an event, it will not be very long before
English-grown plants in flower of this much-talked-
oE • 'ai nation may be anticipated at the Drill Hall.
These cuttings, we believe, have been selling at
f 10 and L'1'2 apiece.

Ivy-Stealing in the Exeter District.—
In our last issue we published details concerning a
conviction at The Castle of Exeter Court for Fern-
stealing. From particulars kindly furnished by
Mr. A. Hope, it seems that at the Exeter Sessions
Court, ou May 29, a similar case was conducted.
The prisoners in this instance, however, had torn
down growing Ivy from trees on the estate of the
Hon. Mark Rolle, and had tied it iu bundles for
sale in the town. Both prisoners were sentenced to
fourteen days' imprisonment with hard labour.

Garden Produce by Rail.— A departure by
the united South-Eastern and Chatham & Dover
Railways, which will be much appreciated by town
dwellers and farmers, is just being instituted in
regard to the conveyance of farm produce direct
from the producer to the consumer. Following the
example set iu this direction by the Great Eastern
Railway — a development which has proved a suc-
cess— the South-Eastern and Chatham Companies
announce that henceforward farm and market-

284

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May (i, 1899.

garden produce will be conveyed to consumers by
passenger train from all stations to London, and
from all stations (except those within twenty miles
of Charing Cross) to the principal towns on the two
systems at a reduced charge of id. for 20 lb., and
Id. additional per additional 5 lb. up to 00 lb.,
including delivery within the usual limits. Iu
connection with this new service light and inex-
pensive boxes are on sale at all the Companies'
stations.

Floral Decorations at Chester.— On the

occasion of the visit of H.R.H. the Prince of
Wales to Chester Races on May 2, the enclosed
paddocks near the Grand Staud were finely deco-
rated by Messrs. Dickson, Ltd. The plants were
effectively grouped in the centre and around the
sides of the enclosed ground, and formed a very
attractive feature in the paddocks. The pale
golden Cupressus macrocarpa lutea, which origi-
nated iu the Chester Nurseries, was used to good
effect with the fine specimen Palms, Bays, Euony-
mus, Japanese Maples, Rhododendrons, Azaleas,
and many other species of decorative-plants.

linear lanceolate, simple and entire. It is an
admirable plant as a climber against a wall, and it
is equally useful in the shrubbery border. Intro-
duced from northern China in 1845 ; it was described
in the Botanical Magazine, p. 4587. E. S., Woking.

NEW NARCISSUS.

Mr. Hartland of Cork sends us blooms of a
cross-bred Narcissus of great beauty. It is a
cross from N. poeticus var. ornatus and another,
and is remarkable for its large size, the reflected
condition of the white perianth segments, which
are bent back nearly as in N. cyclamineus, much
more so than is represented in the illustration
(fig. 105, p. 2S3). The segments also overlap one
another in a curious fashion ; but whether this was
peculiar to the specimen we saw, or is general, we
do not know. We hope Mr. Hartland will not
give it a Latiu name.

Trees and Shrubs.

FORSVTHIAS.
There are few species of spring-flowering shrubs
that deserve greater attention than the Forsyth ias.
I have recently noticed in this neighbourhood some
magnificent specimens of F. suspensa, the charming
blossoms of which are so profuse as to almost hide
from view the stems and branches. One wonders
that such a lovely flowering shrub is so seldom
seen, for it is a quick grower, and thoroughly
hardy. The blossoms also are seldom injured by
frost. As a climbing plant against a wall, or a
specimen tree in the border, it is very effective,
and the plant may be forced in much the same way
as an Azalea or Rhododendron. The deep-yellow
flowers are borne on slender pendulous branches.
The trifoliolate, deep-green leaves are deciduous, and
the new ones appear after the tree has flowered.
F. suspensa succeeds in any good garden soil, but
preferably a soil containing much sandy loam
should be choseu. Propagation may be effected by
means of layers in summer, cuttings of ripened
growths in autumn, or by grafting on stocks of the
common Privet.

F. Fortunei is regarded by some authorities as a
distinct species, but for garden purposes, it and
F. suspensa may be classed as synonymous. In
F. intermedia we have an interesting hybrid
between F. suspensa and F. viridissima. From
small plants I have seen, it would appear that the
flowers resemble in shape and colour those of F.
suspensa, but in growth it is so rapid as to be
similar to that of F. viridissima. It is well worth
planting. A description of this plant may be found
in Garten Flora, 1891, p. 82.

F. viridissima is a species that differs from all
others in being a much more rapid grower, and
forms a small bush 10 or 12 feet in height. Its
flowers are smaller in size, but are produced in
even greater profusion. They are deep yellow in
colour, tubular in shape, and generally appear
during March or April. The leaves are deep green,

Home Correspondence.

TO FORCE CLEMATIS MONTANA. — Upon a
recent visit to the nursery of Mr. H. Heukel, at
Darmstadt, Germany, I saw many plants of the
above species in flower. It is a very valuable plant
for forcing. With respect to the treatment, there
is, said Mr. Henkel, no difficulty, but it is very
necessary to select good established plauts. The
plants then iu flower had been cultivated in pots
for two years. Beyond this, C. montana may be
treated very similar to Prunus, Deutzia, &c. Mr.
Henkel s plants are about 1 to 1'5 metres high,
quite ccivered with the umbels of their white,
slightly - scented flowers ; the climbing branches
are tied up to stakes, forming elegant pyramids.
C. K. S.

SKIN IRRITATION FROM COLEUS LEAVES.—
Two instances have come under my observation
where persons from haudliug these plants have
become affected by a skin rash and swollen eye-
lashes. Primula obcouica has no effect whatever
upon myself, while the Coleus produces intense
inflammation. The milk-like sap of the Fig on
some people's skin will produce large blisters and
intense irritation, the effect of which is felt for
weeks afterwards ; but others are proof against
either the Fig, Primula, or Coleus. Harry IT.
Whiting, Stoughton Grange Gardens, /.<i<-<s/<r.

CAMELLIAS. — Having once had charge of 4000
Camellia plants iu 200 varieties, my opportunities
of learning the peculiarities of varieties aud
the usual methods of culture were of no common
kind. It is a fact that the Camellia is not nearly
so popular a plant as was once the case ; aud as
your correspondent, " E. H. S.," remarks, the
Chrysanthemum has done much to supplant them,
and rightly, as I think, when we consider the
amount of house-room required to have a good
display of both. Then, again, the flowers of the
Camellia are ill adapted to travel, the petals bruising
so easily [if badly packed. Ed.]. The blossoms
are, moreover, less well adapted for arrang-
ing in vases iu a cut state. Then, again, when
the plants are small, flowers with long stalks cannot
be cut with impunity. I am well aware that a
Camellia bloom is usually taken without any part
of the shoot on which it grew, and istheu " wired,''
and thus used for many purposes, but can this be
said to be the best way of showing the Camellia '!
The blooms themselves, owing to their regular and
stiff outline, are nowadays voted too prim. How-
ever, it is uot for the purpose of decryiug the
Camellia that I pen this note, but purely to point
out some drawbacks attending the use of the flowers
when cut from a plant. The finest specimens are
obtained by planting in a cold greenhouse or
conservatory, in a compost consisting of fibry
sandy-loam and peat, two parts of the former
to one of the latter, aud affordiug the borders good
draiuage, for the Camellia requires much moisture
at the roots when making new growth, and again
when swelling their buds, but it dislikes stagnant
moisture. Camellias may be planted against the
back walls of lean-to Peach-houses and vineries,
succeeding in early forced houses where the whole
of the roof-glass is covered with the trees. In such
a position the Camellia luxuriates, the moisture
required for the Peaches in February, March, aud
April, just suiting its requirements at that season ;
and again, when the fruit is ripening and the trees
are resting, the prevailing conditions of a foreiug-
house are suitable. Late vineries and peacheries
are not so well adapted for the plants, the amount
of direct sunlight browning the leaves before they
can obtain shade from the Vines and Peaches. True,
shading can be afforded the trees, but this gives
trouble. Species and varietiesof Camellia which make
long shoots may here be utilised, as such shoots
are readily tied to the wires upon the wall, and the
blossoms are better adapted for decoration when
cut with a good length of shoot, such are C.
Mathotiana, C. m. alba, C. Donckelaari, C. Chan-
dleri elegaus, C. Marchioness of Exeter, aud C.
Prince des Flours. Potting is best performed

directly the plants have finished flowering, except
perhaps those that have been severely pruned.
This, as a rule, is seldom necessary, as, with due
care, the cutting of the blooms is sufficient pruning.
Extra large pots for small plants are not necessary
nor desirable ; and the soil recommeuded for a
border is quite suitable, with the addition of some
silver-sand. [The Camellia being iu its native
home an inhabitant of forests, growing in deep
shade, has requirements that are well met by
mixing with the loam one-sixth to a quarter of
decayed wood-soil, that is, faggot-wood or the like,
which has laid in a heap in a moist shad}' place till
decayed, the decayed portions being sifted out of it
yearly, aud laid on one side for use till all be de-
cayed. This is precisely the sort of plant-food it
obtains in a state of nature, and may take the place
of peat or of leaf-soil in Camellia compost. En.]
Pruniug should be done where required just pre-
vious to new growth being made. In the case of
small or half specimen plants, pruning only should
not be depended upon to obtain the necessary shape ;
by bending the shoots downwards, additional
growths are forced from the uodes below. When
the plants are making their growth, they should be
syringed twice daily, to eucourage growth, and
wash off the black aphis. Top-dressing with loam
and dried cow-dung is best done previously to new
growth being made. F. Molym ux.

Mr. Chapman's excellent reply to " B. C.'s"

enquiry at p. 202 of your last i^sue, reminded
me of some failures that have followed the
use of such a compost as Mr. Chapman recom-
mends. Your correspondent grows these plants
exceedingly well, but there is a vast difference in
loams, both in their chemical and mechanical com-
positions. >Some calcareous loams ought never to
be mixed with peat-earths for hard- wooded plants,
particularly for such as are not repotted frequently.
The best soil for Camellias is one taken from
pasture-lands restiug ou the red sandstone, or from
granite formation, and is neither light nor heavy iu
texture. If the pasturage is of Hue quality, skim
it off' about l.J inch in thickness, break it up small,
or according to the size of the plants to be potted,
aud add nothing whatever to this, but repot
firmly. With careful after-treatment, it is astonish-
ing how quickly Camellias will thrive iu this. If
the herbage is of a coarse nature, it would be advis-
able to char the grass over a wood-fire before using.
I could explain how I brought an extensive collec-
tion of large aud small plauts from a dying con-
ditiou into robust health aud vigour ; but perhaps as
Camellias are neglected iu the immediate present,
the time is not yet opportune. J. Easter, Nostell
Priory Hardens.

WINTER SALADS. — I entirely agree with your
correspondent on p. 270. We have for years
grown here, in north-west Yorks, the large form of
Corn Salad, " Mdche a grandes feuiU.es" as the
French catalogues call it, aud have been able to
cut from it in the severe winters of the past — and,
indeed, salad from under the snow when Lettuces
were goue. If pltiDged at once in cold water (not
taken to a hot kitcheu to thaw), it makes, with
the addition of a few seedling Onious, a salad (in
midwinter) which no epicure would despise. You
see I am a lover of what one of your correspondents
calls, rather contemptuously, " green -meat." lam
far from being a vegetariau, but I cannot help
thinking that, if more "green-meat" and less
"red-meat" were used in England, our health
might be better. /,'. Milne- Redhead, Clitheroe.

I am sending two Lettuces of Stanstead

Park (Cabbage). I have been cutting such Lettuces
ever since the first week iu March, and have
not been without plenty during the whole winter.
A batch of All-the-Year-Kound gave me a tine
supply up to the end of January. The seed was
sown in August, 1898 ; aud that of Stanstead Park
in the first week iu September, 1898. All-the- Year-
Bound affords good winter supplies, but is not so
good as Stanstead Park iu early spring. IT. ./. Ruse,
jun., Woodlam Nurseries, Falmouth. [Very good
'specimens, weighing about J lb. when partially
trimmed. Ed.]

HEPATICA ANGULOSA VARIETIES. — Mr. Loren-
zen, Copenhagen, Denmark, has written to me
regarding my remarks upon the varieties of H.
angulosa iu the Gardeners' Chronicle of April 15.
Mr. Loreuzen informs me that he has a fine light rose-
coloured variety of H. angulosa, which he got from
a German nursery three years ago, and a fine

May 6, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

285

white-flowered variety obtained from Holland in
the autumn of 1897. A flower of the latter, nearly
over when pulled, was enclosed for inspection, the
other being out of bloom. I feel greatly obliged to
Mr. Lorenzeu for his most interesting letter. It is
prized as a fresh proof of tho international good
feeling so prevalent among those of kindred tastes
in flowers and plants. .S'. Arnott.

EUCHARIS x STEVENSll. — This garden hybrid,
between E. Candida and E. Sanderi, is one of the
most free-flowering of Eucharis. Gives a moderate
stock of plants, so that fresh batches can be periodi-
cally brought forward into a little extra heat, one
need seldom be without their (lowers. The lasting
qualities of the flowers, either in a cut state or
upon the plants, are unusually good. P. Bolt,
Wrulirortli Gardens.

BIRDS AND FRUIT-TREES. — The latter part of
my communication in last week's issue is a little
misleading. In the spring of the year insects are
very plentiful, with the swelling and opening of
vegetative buds, and insect-eating birds find plenty
of food. It is in a dry autumn, when insect-life is
comparatively dormant, having commenced the
hybernating stage, that such food is scarce, and
Peas and Pears suffer by tom-tits in consequence.
It is then that a few pounds of suet as an artificial
food does good service. R. J/., Newbury.

MAY-DAY, 1899, NORTH O' TWEED.— Even so
far north as Edinburgh, May-day occasionally
gives us a foretaste of summer. But this year on
May-day the east wind swept over sea and land
with relentless hardness, carrying sleet and suow,
in- rain colder than either in all directions. Fortu-
nately, the season is a fortnight or three weeks
behind time, and with the exception of a few
Peaches and Apricots, and precocious Pears on
walls, the fruit-buds are still, in the main, safe.
The last day of April gave little warning as to the
close proximity and recurrence of wintry weather.
That May-day was foggy and wet in Edinburgh
almost goes without saying. In Glasgow the sun-
shine ou Sunday was succeeded by a downpour of
cold rain that lasted late in the afternoon. Gala-
shiels had a heavy fall of snow, which lasted for
several hours, and which needed the heavy
rain of all the rest of the day to clear it away.
At Greenlaw snow fell from early morning till
late in the afternoon. At Dumbarton a heavy
fall of snow fell in the morniug, followed by
a wet day. Hawick also had 4° of froBt, a
snow-storm, and a thunder - storm later on.
Langholm had thunder, and a heavy down-pour
of rain. Moffat a slight fall of snow, thunder
and rain. The Blairgowrie folk, in whom the
writer is specially interested, having lectured there
on fruit-culture last year, instead of finding their
well-cropped fruit and other gardens sparkling with
May dew, found them covered with snow. It
snowed with little or no intermission from 5 l.M.
till 11 a.m., at times falling very heavily, and
reached a depth of from 3 to 4 inches in parts of
the surrounding country. Still more wintry
reports reach us from central Perthshire, where the
abnormally backward spring of 1S99 seems to have
culminated in their winter on the morniug of May-
day. The snow began to fall thickly and fast
about four in the morning, and continued till noon,
converting the upland roads and paths into masses
of snow and slush several inches deep. The
extremes of symptoms, as well of seasons, however,
seems to meet a good deal further south at
Melrose, where the notes of the cuckoo were said
to !»' distinctly heard in the Calker's Glen on t he
McGotsford Estate, while the whole surface was
covered with snow. D. T. Fish.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

M.w 2.— The usual fortnightly meeting of the Committees of
this Society was held on Tuesday last in the Drill Hall,
■Tames Street, Westminster. The exhibits were considerably
less crowded than on the last occasion, but there was a good
display nevertheless, and from the unusual quantity of
Narcissi shown, including some very beautiful novelties, there
was a degree of brightness that is seldom surpassed. In
addition to the large trade exhibits, which were really repre-
sentative collections of the choicest varieties of Narcissi,
1 lie ( iommittee who adjudged this section of the Show recom-
mended three Awards to novelties that are described below.

The exhibits with which the Floral Committee were
chielly concerned, included a splendid display of Irish-grown
Tulips from Messrs. Hogg & Robertson, Dublin, who may
be i ongratulated on their appearance in the Drill Hall ; Tulips
also from Missis. Barr & Sons, &c. Roses from Messrs.
Paul & Bon, Cheshunt, and Mr. Mount ; groups of Ferns
from Mr. H. B. May, and Messrs. J. Hill & Sons, Edmonton,
and several exhibits of hardy flowering plants. This Com-
mittee recommended Awards of Merit only in two instances
to Richardia Pentlandi, Tring Park var., and R. sutTusa, both
being shown from the gardens of Lord Rothschild.

There was a nice display of Orchids, and the Orchid Com-
mittee recommended Awards of Merit in seven instances, or
an equal number to the whole of the other committees
combined.

The Fruil Committee made no award to any novelty, and
the chief exhibit before this body was a comprehensive collec-
tion of vegetal des and salads from the Duke of Northumber-
land's garden at Syon House.

In the afternoon a paper, entitled "The British and Swiss
Alpine Floras," was read by Mr. E. A. N. Arbor, B.A. an
" old "' student at Chiflwick.

Floral Committee.

Present', W. Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and Messrs. John
Fraser, Owen Thomas, Chas. T. Druery, II. B. May. K. Dean,
W. Howe, J. Jennings, .1. F. McLeod, R. B. Lowe, C. J. Baiter,
Chas. E. Shea, II. S. Leonard, J. W. Barr. Chas. Jeffries, Geo.
Gordon, J. D. Pawle, E. H Jenkins, Herbert J. Cutbush, E.
Beckett, E. T. Cook, H. J. Jones, Geo. Paul, and Ed. Mawley.

Heliotrope Madame Fillay, shown by Mr. J. Hndson, gr.
to Leopold dk Rothschild, Esq., Gunnersbury House.
Acton, is a new Continental-raised variety, with dwarf, coin-
part habit ; it produces large trusses of pale-coloured flowers
immediately above the foliage.

Mr. GEO. MOUNT of Canterbury again staged beautiful
Rosea, there being twelve dozen blooms, in addition to a
number cut as long sprays with foliage. Caroline Teatont,
L'lrieh Brunner, Captain Hayward, were shown in quantity,
hut numerous other varieties were represented by glorious
blooms, though fewer in number (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. 1' mi ib Son, Cheshunt, made a very g:iy exhibit of
Roses in pots, almost every plant being crowded with a line
show of flowers. Nome of che more prominent varieties were
Eltoile de Lyon, Caroline Testout, Viscountess Folkestone,
Marquise Lata, and a fine new white II. T., named Victoria
Melita. The Dawson Rose, a single-flowered variety, is a
charming pi inl for the wilderness garden (Silver-gilt Banksian
Medal).

Mr. <;. W. I'ii'ku, Uckfield, Sussex, again exhibited a
number of blooms of the pretty and peculiarly-tinted Tea
Rose, called Sunrise.

The exhibit of Ferns from Mr. II. B. May, Dyson's Road
Nurseries, upper Edmonton, was composed on this occasion
of Bpecies and varieties of Gleichenia, there being thirteen
forma shown of this very beautiful genus. We noticed G.
Longipinnata, G. dichotoma, the well-known G. apeluncse, one
of the very best; G. Mendeli, a useful Fern for forming speci-
mens ; a stmng-growing form of G. rupestris, known as
gigantea : andG. Backhouseiana, a comparative novelty, of
dwarf habii and neal appearance (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal).

Messrs. J. Hill & Son, Lower Edmonton, made an
interesting exhibit of Ferns, for the greater part consisting of
varieties of Aspleniura, and including such diverse forms as
A. Nidus, A. caudatum, of Nephrolepis-like growth; ami A.
viviparuxn, a very linely-cut variety (Bronze Banksian
Medal).

Richardia Pentlandi was shown by Mr. E. Hill, gr. to Lord
Rothschild, Tring Park, Tring. He had six very strongly-
flowered plaids.

Messrs. .I.\s. V kit< ii & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chel-
sea, exhibited plants of a new variety of Coditvum named Mrs.
Icetoii. The variety has moderately broad leaves, coloured
variously with red, yellow, and green. Messrs. Veitcii also
showed varieties of Rhododendron balsaminseflora, double
flowered, in yellow, white, rose-coloured, &c. All of these
different coloured double-flowered varieties were produced by
seeds from one capsule, which resulted from a flower that had
a petaloid stamen, fertilised with pollen from the perfect
stamens. The flowers are very attractive, and the plants
grow vigorously in a warm greenhouse.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, Highgate Nurseries, London,
X,, staged a group of miscellaneous plants of a decorative
character, including some of the more popular Ericas, new
varieties of Azalea indica, Boronias, &e.

Auriculas, that at the last meeting were not more than
average in quality, were represented by a moderate-sized
group of beautiful varieties and novelties from Mr. Jas.

1) i as, Kdeiiside Nurseries, Great Bookham, But no

award was made to any of these, nor to others shown by
Messrs. TitOS. Ware, Ltd., Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham.
From these Tottenham Nurseries came also a few Tulips and
other hardy flowers.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London,
in addition to an extensive exhibit of Narcissi, showed a very
nice collection of varieties of florists' Tulips, and an inter-
esting litth- group ot alpine plants in flower. Amongst some
Erythroniums from Messrs. Barb, was a highly decorative
variety called Pink Beauty.

The lovely yellow-flowered Fritillaria imperialis was
exhibited by J. T. Gilbert Dvke, Esq., Bourne, Lincolnshire,
who contributed a grand bunch of them.

Messrs. Wallace & Co., Kihifield Gardens, Colchester,
showed in company with other plants, a greenish-flowered
Fritillary (F. Elwesii), Muscaria eonicum, and the gay coloured
Tulipa Greigi.

Seedling Primroses and Polyanthuses were staged by
several exhibitors, including some from F. W. Campion, Esq.,
Colley Manor, Reigate (gr., Mr. J. Fitt), and Messrs. H.
Cannell & Sons, Swanley. Messrs. Cannell's crimson-
flowered Primrose, Miss Massey, was a very fine one.

Tulips were exhibited largely and grandly by Messrs. Hono
& Robertson, Mary Street, Dublin. There were about 150
huge bunches of these Irish-grown Tulips, and they were
remarkable for excellent colour and good substance and
size. The species of Tulipa were capitally represented, and
attracted some interest. We noticed among these such as
T. primulinum, the dainty little T. Clusiana, the spreading T.
cornuta chinensis; the brightly coloured T. Kolpakowskiana,
T. viridifiora, T. elegans, all well known, but representative
of interesting types. The florists' Tulips were also present
in large numbers, and a small but fine collection of Darwin
Tulips completed this welcome exhibit from the Emerald Isle
(Silver-gilt Flora Medal).

Messrs. G. Jackman <v Sox, Woking, exhibited a group of
hardy and alpine plants, in which Gentiana acaulis and
varieties of Primula Sieboldi were noticeable. They contri-
buted also a fine lol nf bloom of Magnolia conspicua, and M.
alba grandiflora (Silver Banksian Medal).

AWARDS.

Richardia Pentlandi Tring Park variety. —A very large
spathed variety as shown, and more rich in colour than
this yellow Calla has been previously seen (Award of Merit).

RicJiardia sutfusa. — A pale primrose-spathed Calla was
shown under this name, reminding one of that known as It.
aurita, but paler even than this one. The spathes are mode-
rate in size, and at the interior base is a large purple stain.
(Award Of Me, i) j.

Both of the above varieties were shown by Mr. E. Hill,
gr. to Lord Rothschild, Tring Park.

Narcissus Committee.

Present: Messrs. J. T. Bennett-Poe (in the chair), C. R.
Scrase-Dickins (Hon. Secretary), P. R. Barr, A. Kingsmill,
•'. Pope, R. Sydenham, W. Goldring, G. Titheradge, J,
Walker, Revs. G. H. Bngleheart and E. Bourne.

Narcissi, though not in their zenith as on April IS, were
strongly represented in the hall, especially by the east coasl
growers. The large bank of flowers in great variety staged by
Messrs. Bath, of Wisbech, was an exceptionally line exhibit,
the blooms large, fresh, and well finished ; Weardale Perfection
was particularly striking (Silver-gilt Flora Medal).

A Silver Flora Medal was awarded to Messrs. Bark's large
and comprehensive collection; and a Silver Banksian Medal
to Messrs. T. S. Ware's exhibit.

Messrs. Jas. VettchA Boss, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea,
had also a collection of Narcissi in variety.

A stand of new hybrid seedlings from the Rev. G. II.
Engleheart seemed a centre of attraction. This was smaller
than that of April IS, but every flower was well in advance of
the varieties in cultivation, especially in refineinemt and
distinction of form, and rich or delicate colouring. A few
blooms of the splendid Will Scarlett, though staged as old
flowers, still retained the wonderfully deep and glowing
scarlet in their large cups. Two beautiful flowers
obtained Awards of Merit. There were also several large
bunches of fine crimson-eyed Poeticus seedlings in this
exhibit, and many other notable flowers.

Mr. R. O. Backhouse, Sutton Court, Hereford, was thanked
for an interesting exhibit of seedlings; and Mr. J. Walker,
Thame, submitted two flowers of a remarkably fine double
yellow Incomparabilis.

AWARDS.

.V -. issus x Marina, having a pale creamy perianth of per-
fect, rounded form, and large open saucer-like crown of softi si
lemon. From Rev. G. Enoi eheart (Award of Merit).

N. x Hesperus.— A variety with spreading segments of pale
creamy-buff, the eye rich apricot -orange. From Rev. G.
EnoleheaKI (Award of Merit).

N, x DorotJty Kingsmill, from Andrew Kingsmill, Esq
Harrow Weald. This flower, raised by Rev. G. H. Fnclk-
heart, is a by bud of extraordinary size, from a cross between
Ajax. grandis and triandrus. The flower is as large as Lhat of
grandis, is creamy. white, with something of the drooping
character of triandrus (Award of Merit).

Orchid Committee.

Present: Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the Chair ; and Messrs.
Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De B. Crawshay, J. Gurney Fowler,
Sydney Courtauld, II. J. Chapman, J. Gabriel, W. H. Young,
W. H. White, W. H. Protheroe, A. Outram, T. Statter, H. T.
Pitt, E. Hill, J. Jaques, W. Thompson, T. W. Bond, Walter
Cobb, F. Mason, A. H. Smee, H. Little, J. Colman, and H.
Ballantinu.

Sir Trevor LaWKENCE, Bart., Bnrford (gr., Mr. W. H.
White), staged a group of interesting Orchids, specially
remarkable in which were a fine specimen of the rare Cirrho-
petalum Cumingi, with twenty-nine of i;s fan-like heads of
bright rose-purple flower ; a very flne example of Cirrhope-
talum Colletti, with tine flower-spikes ; Dendrobium crepida-
tum maximum, with which was shown the ordinary form
much smaller in size and less bright in colour; D. x Nestor
(Parish! X anosmiun) ; D. X micans giganteum, one of the
most beautiful of hybrids ; D. x Stratius (Linawianum x
Dalhouseianum), with singulaily-formed pink flowers; the
pretty little Masdevallia O'Brieniana, and a fine specimen of
Pleurothallis ornate (Silver Banksian Medal).

W, Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone, Staffordshire
(gr., Mi. W. Stevens), showed a group of excellent Odonto-

286

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

§May 0, 1899.

glossums cultivated and flowered in his usual superb manner.
Among them were Odontoglossum X Ruckerianum oeellatum,
a fine form with light rose-coloured flowers handsomely
spotted with red-brown; O. luteo-purpureum, Thompson's
variety, a very large flower, having all but the yellow tips of
the sepals of a rich brown colour, the petals cream-white
blotched with brown, and a handsomely-marked white label-
lum (Cultural Commendation); the fine O. l.-p. sceptrum
Stevensii, a grand O. polyxanthum, with two flower-spikes
(Cultural Commendation) ; a pretty light-coloured 0. x exeel-
lens, with a fine-branched inflorescence; two superb forms of
o. crispnm, and the handsome Lffilio-Cattleya x Hippolyta
anrantiaca, with wholly orange-coloured flowers (Silver Flora
Medal).

Hi: B. Ci-.vwsmv, Esq.. Rosefiehl, Sevenoaks, showed a
very remarkable group of Odontoglossums, in which were
eleven distinct forms of 0. x Andersonianum, ranging from
the large nearly unspotted forms, to others densely spotted
with various tints of brown (see list of Awards); the line 0.
X Buckeriannm, Rosefield variety; O. triumphans "Rose-
field Emperor," a grand form, near to O. t. Lionel Crawshay ;
the rare O. Nevadense, and a pretty blush-white Cattleya
Memleli (Silver Flora Medal).

Messrs. Jas. Veit. n & Son, Royal Exotic Nursery, Kind's
Road, Chelsea, showed Dendrobium X crepidato-nobile, a
pretty and interesting cross between D. crepidatum and D.
nubile, the white flowers tipped with rose, and bearing on the
lip a .singula] clarct-colonred marking, more nearly approach-
ing in form to 1). crepidatum, but the flowers were larger.

Mc ssrs. Ilrmi Low & Co. were awarded a Silver Banksian
Medal lor a group of Cattleya Mendeli, one of the most
dist.imd being C. M. Princess, blush-white, with purple
,,i rrbling in front of the yellow-tinted tube. With then, were

g I examples of Miltonia Roezli alba, Phahvnopsis San-

deriana, Lselio-Cattleya > Latona, fee.

W. A. (iii.Lin, Esq.., Fairoak Lodge, Bishopstoke, sent cut
spikes of a number of line varieties of Odontoglossums,

Cattleyas, and Dendrol -.all excellently grown. Among

them were Bne forms of Odontoglossum crispum, one purple-
tinted form scarcely expanded being especially good; ex-
I n. Pesi itorei, 0. Coradinei, O. luteo-purpureum,
(i. Haynaldianum, a noble Cypripedium Rothschildianum,
and some very large flowered Dendrobium nobile.

R i. Fletcher, Esq., Withdean, Brighton, sent Seleni-
pediuni caudatum, and its pouchless variety Lindeni.

K. 1. Measdbeb, Esq., Camberwell (gr., Mr. II. .1. Chap-
man), showed Cypripedium x Thyades (snperbiens X
Chamberlaiuianum), a curious cross, having the upper sepal
pale-green with thin purple lines; the extended petals
greenish white with numerous dark-pnrple spots.and crimped
ciliate margin ; tin' lip reddish-rose.

F. A. Rehdeh, Esq., The Avenue, Gipsy Hill, sent Cypri-
pedium x Mrs. Bclider (Argus >: Rothschildiai.um), a flower
of line substance ofa reddish-yellow ground colour, the petals
bearing many dark chocolate spots, the upper sepal tinged
with green, and bearing a few dark lines. Also Miltonia
flavescens.
C, L.N. Ingram, Esq., Godalming (gr., Mr. T. W.Bond),

showed Lselio-Cattleya Sii Win. Ingram, a richly col ■<!

hybrid between Lrolia purpurata and Cattleya aurea.

F. M. Burton, Esq . Highfiehi, Gainsborough, showed a
very mi,' Odontoglossum polyanthum and Cypripedium x
porphyrites, probablya C. concolor eioss, tin- greater pari of

the flower's surfi being bright crimson-purple, with a few

blackish spots on the petals.

AWARDS.

Epidtndrum x tUgtuitulmn lute (Wallisii ?, Endresio

Wallisii).— A line colour variation ; flowers borne in racemes
of i.nii or live on Ihe upper part of the growths Sepals ami
petals bright yellow ; lip white, with slight rose shade in the
centre. From Messrs. I is. \ i en a & Sons (Award of Merit).
Odontoglossum triumphans, Dvlcote Variety.— Flowers large,
each segment broad, ami well proportioned; the light yel-
lowish gonial colour bearing large chestnut-brown blotches
covering the greater part of their surface. From Walter
Cobb, Esq., Dulcote, Tunbridge Wells (gr., -Mr. .1. Howes)
(Award of Merit).

Odontoglossum ■ excellent McBeanianum.—A grand variety
witti very large Mowers. Sepals broad, lemon yellow with

three large transven id brown blotches; petals white at the

base, the outer half pale yellow, bearing one or two large
brown blotches ami some smaller. Lip oral, crimped, pale
primrose-yellow with darker yellow crest, and three reddish
blotches in the middle. One of the finest which has yet
appeared. From Messrs. Jas. McBean & Sons, Cooksbriage
(Award of Merit).

Odontoglossum X Km Ri ■ iiense. — Flowers large

and well formed, purplish-rose with showy red-brown mark-
ings-. From Dl 11. ' i ■ ' HAY, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks
(gr., -Mr. s c,,ok.') (Award of Mei it).

Odontoglossum Andersonutnum Mrs. /'< J'.. Crawsluxy. —
Flower nearly as large as in some forms of O. crispum, creamy-
white with a very few reddish spots, and yellow callus on the
lip. From De lb Crawshay, Esq. (Award of Merit).

Odontoglossum x Andersonianum "Raymond Crawsliay."—
A showy variety witli large cream-coloured Mower, the Indian
red closely-placed markings being confined to the middle of
the segments, leaving a broad unspotted margin. From De
B. Cl -w: hay, Esq. (Aw. ml of Ml III).

Fruit Committee.

/' t: Philip Crowley, Esq., in Ihe Chair; ami Messrs.

lie,, fjunyard, E. Shaw Blaker, W. Poupart, A. F. Barron,
T. .1. Salhnarsli, A. II. Pearson, J. Wright, Alex. Dean,
S .Mortimer, W. Hit' . I'. C. M. Witch, G. T. Miles, Geo.
Wythes, II. Balderson, F. Q. Lane, .las. Smith, ami M. (!.
Gleeson.

A box of excellent fruits of the Strawberry Royal Sovereign,
from T. W. Campion, Esq., Colley Manor, Rcigate, won from
the committee a Cultural Commendation ; and alike acknow-
ledgment was m ale in the case of two dozen first-class fruits
of Alexandra Teaches, shown by Mr. J. Ryder, gr. to the
Countess of Limerick, Hawkeswick, St. Albans.

Mr. J. Mortimer, Rowledge Nursery, Farnham, again
showed fruits of the Tomato Winter Beauty ; and Mr. Owen

Tl is, gr. to Her Majesty The Queen, Royal Gardens,

Windsor, exhibited fruits and bine with fruits of T ito

Epicure. This is an exceedingly small-fruited variety, and
the fruits are almost round, of good flavour, and exceedingly
free; but they are scarcely so fleshy as they might be. ami
the skin is rather thick. Mr. Thomas also showed a number
of pots of Peas, the variety being Harbinger, freely podded,
ami ready for the table.

A collection of vegetables and salads, from Mr. lie,,.
Wytlns, gr. to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House,
Brentford, illustrated what is possible in the way of variety
in vegetables in the early spring season. There were forty-
varieties of vegetables, and twenty of salads. A Silver-gilt
Knightian Medal was awarded the exhibit. The Potatos shown
included Sharpe's Victor, Witch's Ashleaf, and a nice looking
variety named Syon Early Perfection, obtained from across
between Myatt's Ashleaf and Sharpe's Victor. Of Broccolis
we noticed Witch's Model, Late Queen, and Sutton's Con-
tinuity, all of them being capital sorts for home consumption.
There were young roots of white and purple Milan 'I'm nips, also
Sutton's Forcing, sown only ten weeks since ; White Spanish
Onions, Fully Nantes Carrots, Lettuce Hammersmith Hardy
Green; Mushrooms, Prickly Spinach, Batavian Endive,
French Beans Early Favourite and Syon House; Borecole;
Sprouting Broccoli; excellent Asparagus from protected
bods; Seaka'e; Cucumbers Improved Telegraph ami Veitch's
Perfection; Chives, Radishes, fee. A curious feature of tin-
exhibit was a number of pots of Spinach— nm a common
method of forcing this -vegetable. Mr. Wythes also showed
excellent Rhubarb, from seed sown in Aptil. 1S97.

THE GREAT HORTICULTURAL EXHI-
BITION AT GHENT.
April SO to May 9. — The important horticul-
tural exhibition instituted by the Ligue Hortieolc
"1' Union "for the province of East Flanders, and
standing under the patronage of H.1MI. Prince
Albert of Belgium, the Minister of Agriculture and
■Public Works, and the Governor of the Province,
was opened to the public on Sunday, April 30, by
H.R.H. Prince Albert. The opening was attended
with but little ceremony.

The horticultural exhibits of kinds likely to be
mini oil were mostly brought together under a
canvas roof, covering an area of 00,000 square feet ;
Orchids, Antlmriums, Vriesias, Cacti, &c. and
a few of tin- more valuable exhibits, in glass-
houses exist iug in the garden; hardy trees of
all kinds, and garden appliances out-of-door?.
The site of the show, a garden attached to a
dwelling about to be converted into a nunnery,
occupies an area of 0 acres, so that plenty of space
for the purposes of an exhibition of this kind was
available : moreover, the garden being pretty well
furnished witli walks, fruit-trees, and ornamental
trees aud shrubs, and several glasshouses, gave
advantages not to be ignored in such enterprises as
this one. Tin- general impressions ou a first view
were, that it was strong in Palms of moderate size, but
weak in those usually seen at Ghent , which come from
the gardens of amateurs, as might be supposed at a
first show got together by the nurserymen of the
town of Ghent aud the province. Groups of Azalea
indica, none of them consisting of large plants, gave
colour, as did lesser groups of Olivias, Cytistts,
Acacias, Azalea mollis, Choisya ternata. some Hippe-
astrums from Mr. Ker, Aigburth, and Callistemons.
On entering the show area by the only avail-
able door, the eye was taken by a stretch of
turf flanked at the sides with Azaleas, but free
of everything in the middle, ending in a mass of
rock work representing a wall of rock pierced by a
low browed arch or opening, through which was
observed a suulit opening iu a tropical landscape
appropriately planted. The effect of the whole
from the entrance-door, was exceedingly good. The
walk skirting the sides of the building was carried
over the aforesaid arch, affording the beholder a
view the entire area from the height of about
10 feet from the floor. Of strikiug objects may be
mentioned, Dracaena Goldieana, Acalypha Sanderi,
many lots of Cocos Weddelliana, fine Boronias in
groups and single plants, aud Citrus sinensis,
loaded with fruit.

ORCHIDS.
Taking Orchids first, we And Mr. Chas, Vcylsteke, of
Loochristy, exhibiting a very fine lot of Odontoglossum
crispum raised in Europe by artificial fertilisation. All were
striking, but a brief description of each must suffice. Odonto-
glossum Magnificent, flowering for the first time, possesses a
white lip, as do most of them, betokening their crispum origin
on one side, the ground colour of the sepals and petals yellow,
densely spotted with brown on the. upper half, and with
purple at the base; O. grandiceps is of stellate form, with
broad petals and sepals tipped with a pale yellow tint and
blotched with brown for two-thirds of their length, base of
lip a purple tint; O. pra-stans, rather similar to the last, hut
with more numerous brown patches on the petals and sepals, the
flower above middle size; O. salinoneum, creamy-white ground
fie-ly marked with brown spots, and spotting at the base of the
lip ; O. eximium, a flower with a bright yellow ground, and a
half-circle of a brown tint containing an oblong brown patch in
the middle, this is one of the best of the lot; O. Loochristiense
has a yellow ground colour, with large patches of brown on all
the segments excepting the lip ; O. bellatulum, nearly wholly
of a rich brown tint with bars of yellow, the lip purplish-
brown at the base. O. corallinum, a How er of middle size, with
short, broad segments of a creamy-white ground, dotted over
distinctly with brown, and the lip is furnished with purple
spills. O. hirsutum is of great size, boldly marked with
brown on the wide ami long petals and sepals ; the lip long,
and ending in a point, with purple ami brown spots on the
basal hall'. Another form of O. Loochristiense, differing
from the other in having more white at the base of all the
segments ; it is comparatively a large Rower. ( I. gratiosum is
a flower with a yellow ground-tint, blotched brown, and
small purple spots on the lip. The alleged parents of these
line varieties are crispum, triumphans, Pescatorei, and,
perhaps, Haiti. The 1st prize of BOO francs was awarded,
together with a work of art. " runaniniti.

M. C. Vuylsteke exhibited a group of seventy-five Orchids,
receiving the 1st Prize, and a tab!.- service lor twenty-four
persons. We noted several fine Odontoglossums, including
ioptoeon, a dark purple ; a nice bit of Cypripedium caudatum,
Masdevallias in some variety, including Veitchi grandinorum,
lloulteaiia, ami Lindeni; a fine plant of Cymbidiura Lowi-
anum, Miltonia Bleueana, white Rower; and M. Empress
Augusta, of a bright rosy purple ; M. vexillaria virginalis, a
very superior white ami rose-tinted Rower, ,vc. A nice collec-
tion of small-sized and good things.

M. C.Vcylsteke was awarded lstprlze ami a GoldHedal for
a collection of thirty Odontoglossums, including cuspidatum
xanthoglossum, gloriosum crispum guttatnm, excellens tri-
umphans, a very line form ; t. maximum, hisliix equally so.
All small, of trade size. The same exhibitor was awarded 1st
prize for a collection of ten Masdevallias, including iguea
aurea, ignea iiiajestiea.'Witchiatia grandiflora, and Harryana
splendens.

The finest Cypripedium was Flamingo, shown by M. Hyb
Lkyscn. II is a Howe, generally ofa greenish-yellow tint,
witli purple marking, the dorsal sepal purplish, with a white
m. n . in (1st piize ami a Silver Medal).

Tl e most beautiful Lselio-Cattleya wis shown by M. llvi:
Li:v«i-.n. II is a hybrid from L. purpnrata and C. Law-
re iceana, and in sha] e ami colour il may I e said to be lairly
iiilermeili.ile between these species (1st prize and Silver
Medal of isi .lass).

The best fifty Orchids were those or an exhibitor whose
name we could not ascertain, who obtained 1st prize and a
work of art. We noted Cattleya Wameri, C. Mendeli in its
finest form, C. >. Partheiiia gratissima, C. Schiellmanniana,
various Miltonias, Odoutoglossum crispum guttatum viola-
e -inn, a handsome form, having a rosy ground-tint ; O. Ilalli
leucoglossnm, O. Ruckerianum, O. R. superblens, Mesospi-
nidinm vulcanicum grandiflorum, &c.

Messrs. B. Praet & Co., Mont St. Alnand, in a collection
of twenty-five, showed a Vanda tricolor, a Miltonia or two
Cattleya Schroderi, Cypripedium villosum, C. Dauthieri.
Odontoglossum Rurkerianuin, Co logyne crista ta,<fcc, ordinary
I i-mle plants (1st prize, together with a work of art ).

M. E. Phaet & Co., St. Amand, had several small exhibits,
usually taking 1st prizes. He had, for example, the lust
Bpidendrum, and in another class the finest Cymbidium
l.owianum, and Oncidium sarcodes. The finest Cattleya
Mossiie was that shown by him.

Mr. Van Beerleere, Mont St. Amanil. showed groups of
thirtyand of fifteen Cypripediums. Cool < Irchids in quantity
were not shown, and numerous classes were not represented.

M. Van Beerleere had the best dozen of one species lit
for using ill apartments, showing Odontoglossums.

Dendrobiinns and Co-lngyues were se.u-e.ly r -presented,
and the prizes went to not very line specimens.

M. Hvf.-Lhvsen had 1st Prize for Dendrobium Ballianum, a
charming white-flowered species, with the habit and form of
flower of D. nobile. The same exhibitor took the 1st award
for a large plant of Cypripedium Boxalli furnished with a
dozen blooms. He was likewise 1st with an Odontoglossum
triumphans, and with an Angrrocum sesquipedale with ten
blooms— a remarkable number torso small a plant; and also
with Cattleya Lawrenceana var. Hyeana, a Mower with a deep
purple lip. The best Masdevallia, viz., Pourbaixi, an orange-
red flower, came from him.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co. showed a natural hybrid Odonto.
glossum Prince Albert, absolutely new, aud flowering for the
first time under cultivation. The flower is of the most
admired form, with a wide, channeled, and fringed lip, which
is white at the apex, and brown at the base ; crest fringed
and white, and a prominent feature ; sepals of a yellow
ground tint, with broad brown blotches, the petals showing

Mav 6, 1S99.]

THE VAll'DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

287

more of the yellow, and less of the brown colour. The flower
is as if varnished.

With the exception of the class for seventy-five Orchids,
for which only foreigners could compete, the competitions
were open, and good cultivation and line flowering were the
points of chief consideration.

NEW PLANTS.
For a collection of twelve Palms new to commerce, Messrs.
P. Sander & Co. were easily 1st, and remarked were small
specimens of Kentia Eirsteniana, leaves of a dark-green tint,
and obtusely wedge-shaped leaflets; K. Warletiana, with
leaflets few and distant ; Ptycoraphissingaporensis, a graceful
species, with many narrow leaflets on each leaf-stalk, the
latter semi-pendent; Linospadix Petrickiana, in general
asp< et bearing a resemblance tn tin' Last-mentioned plant, but
the Leaflets are broader, and the closed central Leaf is bronzy -
green; K. Banderiana, a graceful species, of seemingly rapid
growth; Areca Ilsemanni, an erect-growing plant, whose
central leaves are coppery-hued, and the Leaflets half-an-inch
in width, and set 1 inch apart ; Bhopaloblaste hexandra, a
particularly ornamental Javan species ; Linospadix Micho-
litzii, a broad-leaved species from New Guinea, each leaf
divided at the apex ; Ptychoraphis Augusta, Licnala
Jeanenceyi, and lastly, Calamus Alharti, good Palms, oi
Line characteristics. In this class a 1st prize I'll to Mr.
Arthur of. Suet of Ledeberg, near Ghent, for a species
named Didymospermura porphyrocarpum, of bold lial.it. and
robust build.

The best new Pandanus was shown by Messrs. P. E
& Co., namely Sanderi, a species .-1 apparently robust habit,
leaves of great length, serrated at the edges, and broadly
st rip, ,t with white on green.
The best Juniper of recent Introduction was J, Sanderi, a
species introduced about L8DG by Messrs. F.
Sander & Co. As seen, it is extremely bushy, but probablj
wh.it notcut up for propagation, it will assume a rathi Le
.i'n.\ and a pj ramidai mode of growth. It is believed to be
a useful plant for furnishing window boxes, beds in the open,
pot culture. The habit of the plant bespeaks its
h hardiness. The colour of the needles is blue gri en.
The plant was likewise shown by tie' exhibitors in another
si .i i. iii ..f new plants al< in I i anadi nsis S

pendula, and Pinus Thunbergi variegata. The first-named
has tin' .litfuse habit of the type, and tin- usual inclination of
the stem from the pcrpedicular. It has short dark coloured
i" ' M' • -'t in a triple row. other characteristics were not
noticeable owing to the small age of the plant. Thi
plant has branchlets densely clothed with needles, two in a
.sheath, which ehnnge to white when aged. The linn was
awarded a 2nd prize and Silver Medal 0- ' lass II. for this
exhibit of Conifers.

The last new Crotons (Codia-iims) distinct, were shown
by M. Le Draps-Dom, of Laeken, Brussels, viz, M.
Draps-Dom, B. Comte, and Alphonse de Rothschild,
all of thi'in possessing entire Leaves and bright

colouring. The last-na i variety received an additional

award of 1st prize oil Silver Medal of Class II. For
Mi.- set .'!' tlir..', a lsl in e out a Silver Medal were
awarded. The last-name. 1 firm won a Lsl prizi foi a plant ol
Dracaena Janssensii, a white and green Leaved species, with
Leaves of great breadth.

The finest plant of Aiithiii'iiim Schei e shown

by n. .-.is, r. sashi b .. i ■ ■

by 3 inches, and stalks of such a height us to carry tin -path.'
well above the foliage (1st Prize and Silver Medal).

The best new single-flowered Azalea indica, a seedling or a

graft, was Madame Osterreith, a very nice crimson-coloured

flower, shown by M. J. Vervaene, Ledeberg; award, lsl Prize

and a sil\ er Medal.

The best new double-flowered A ■ah a indica was Ledeberg

W ler, shown by the same exhibitor; it ■,

crimson-colonred (1st Prize an.! Silver-gili Medal); 2nd was
Bug. .1.. Cock, also cm lsoi ■! i Cock ;

awarded a Silver-gilt Medal.

Tin- best new single-flowered variety of A/.iIra indica
obtained from seed was Jfin iwn by M. .1.

Vervaene, a flower of large line, ami of a nice shade of
crimson.

The new Azalea indica Haerensiana was shown by J. B.
Sasrens & W'ille, a hands, .mi- semi-double rose-coloured
flower (1st Prize and Silver Medal of the 1st Class). MM. L.
Eekhaute et Fils were 2nd for azalea Mdlle. Bmms Eekhaute,
llowers rose bordered with white.

Three seedling Rhododendron rustics were shown by M. c.
Voyi steke, viz., Adonis, white and rose : Patrie, pale lemon-
yellow ; ami Graciende, somewhat like Ore last in the shade

of colour, but of semi double I

Tli.. same firm of nurserymen showed Ansectochilus Leo-
handsome leavi 'I species or variety, ss-green ami

black, tesselated with golden yellow lines. They also showed
six plants of Kentia Alberti; ami exhibiting in Clas
this section, they were awarded for tin.'' Caladiums a 1st
prize, ami Silver-gilt Medal for, viz., C Clias. Vuylsteke, a
crimson-coloured leaf with green margin; C. President
Petriek, similar to the last Li'.' havin a wider margin;and
c. K. J, Kuylc, a variety with copper-coloured leaves spotted
with crimson.

M. "I Beosse, freres, of SaflVliere, Ghent, were awarded a
1st prize for Areca robhsta variegata, tlie Leal tints bi Lng light
and dark g] lan
A new Holly name 1 Golden Km , n lembling m form "f

leaf Waterer's Silver Queen, came i Mi i Little &

I', ii i imini: of Carlisle.

i ■ ..■;■ e -mull plants ..f Drnca na Godaeffiana were
in fine condition by Messrs. F. Sander & Co., extremi
in tint (1st Prize and Silver-gilf Medal).

M. A. UK S.met received a Silver Medal, 2nd class, for
Anthuriuin Baron de Bieberstein, a variety with creamy-white
spathe spotted witll red.

A new Strawberry, Louis Vilmoi in, very prolific, was -how ti
by' the Brothers Steynaert, Ghentbrugge, a 1st Prize and a
Silver Medal was awarded.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co. showed in class :'...o, receiving 1st

ami a Silver Medal for an . ample of Acalypha San-

deriana, 7 fiat high and widely branched ; also twelve plants

..i Dracaena Sanderianaj ami fur these they were accorded

Lsl Prize and( Silver-gilt Medal.

Besides sh.. wing new subjects in competition, tin- firm
tabled a number of plants, some of recent introduction, as
Alocaeia Warreniana, Caladium alhaneiise, C. venosuni,
Il.-lu-iiiiia rubricaulis, Gardenia Slanlryaua, an old species,
rarely se.-n in flower, and received a Prix d'Honneur.

Clivias were rather numerously shown, and were good for
the season, having large heads of flowers, and very vigorous in
growth. The best single specimen in a tub was shown by
M. V. de Uuassi hop, "1 Tronchienne, Ghent. It. possessed
fifteen flower-heads of fine form and ricli colour, and was
awarded a 1st prize ami a Silver Medal.

CARNIVOROUS PLANTS.
M. Mai no a: Verdonck, nurseryman, Chaussee de Bruxelles,
exhibited twelve Nepenthes of Lcrate size, including Chel-

soni, oniiaini. Sedeni, Stewarti, coi Tinea. Mastersii, ami
superba (1st Prize and Gold Medal of lifty francs value).

GREENHOUSE PLANTS.

I N-w lb. ll.ai .1 plants were shown by

M- Georges Fretin, Avenue de la Gare, Heirelbeke, stly

indwell grown ami flowered, varying in height from
3 feel to 6 feet, ami proportionately broad. Particularly
noticeable were Erica cucullata, a while, minute flower;
In.' mi i M Acacia Drummondi, A. vertieillata, a big plant,
ta everj part ; A. grandis, Pultaenea stricta, Lithos
pcrmum fruticosum, a small plant, with flowers ol briglil
blue; Boronin polygalifolia, and otliers; Brachysema acumi-
nata, Metrosideros stricta, dens , flowered, and
(1st Prize, and a Work of Art).
The bi I H-.OS racemosus of large size were shown

i Ruedi I,. I'. Oi temmed

standards, veiy well flowered. A 2ml Prize, an. I Sil'
M eda] i

i ■■ ..'.,,', I. i. a t, stn

an. I Enami Lit d Medal, t" M. G. Fri us. The Cyti u « It n

grov ii .a tin- i .11.. i ,'. i .. : . "i'.i decorative material.

i'i in ..'I- were likewise show n, but i hi- form of distortion i -

mil tn I.' recommended i tat Eon

In lie i" i l'.l .it these

plants, we remarked Cytisus race sus and Acacia

doxa lineal is plant : A. p. i

ernes ol whiti flow. . - ; \ icata, \. lam ifbll i, &c.
1st, M. G. I'm us. 1st prize and Gold M. dal.

Tim finest six plants of Metrosideros on tali
from the, same exhibitor; Ihej were profusely furnish
their bottle-brush-likc flower-heads (1st Prize la Medal)

The tin.- pan of plant- ,.1 an Ai i were A. veitl

shown bj Mi. i i ■ m i , pi

Me i il)

Mr. C. deL i showed the best c ttpleof Choisya ti

i tandards ol i feet in in ight, furnisln I with crowns 2 fei I in
diameter (1st prize and Siiv.-r Medal, 1st class).

Tin- ftnesl grown Clnnthus ntagnirieus, measm ing I feel by
-i ft et, was that hown by M. \ is Kentorghi h-Roheoi i
(lsl prize ami Silver Medal, 1st class).

Boronia elatior le a plant that was often exhibited, ami
single plants, showing long-continued, careful cultivation,
were shown.

The finest Pimeleawas P. spectabilis, a plant :. feet high
ami 4 feet in diameter, shown by M. L. Van Houtte (1st Prize
and Silver Medal, 1st class). The same exhibitor had
Erica Caventushiana, that brought a similar award,

'I'lrn finesl Medinilla inagnifica cam-- from M. R .f. Kuyk a
very vigorous ami massive plant, with Btrong racemes of
tl'.w.is i i-.t I'n/,. and a Silver Medal). The next besl was
shown i'\ M. .'. Boellens, Ledebet were bloomed, hui n - ■
vigorous (2nd Prize and Silver Medal of 2nd el,,

GREENHOUSE PLANTS OF COMMERCIAL SIZE.

Cold greenhouse plants were largely shown, such as those
we have named, and Braehysemas, Correas, Diosmas, Eii. >-
sti'iinms, Hydrangeas, Genista scoparius Andreanus, Lepto-
spermum, Polygala, Boronias, Chrysanthemum frutescens,

but little that would 1 1 interest I ir readers. The Ghent

»U1 3i 1 1 n are growing these Cape and New Holland plants

extensively, and we shall doubtless see them re-introduced to

general cultivation in a few years. Nothing can well be m

beautiful for tin- decoration of the cool houses during the
spring and early summer months.

AZALEA INDICA IN BLOOM.
1 i collection of thirty-six plants of Azalea indica, 1st
Prize ami a Work ol Art to M. J. Vi m ibne, Ledeto

"I'I' si'. 1.. 2 feel high ami in ibaiimler, capTtall}
(lowered, as were indeed the principal exhibits ol Azalea
indica.

M. Em. Vercauteren, of Mette, showed sixty Azalea indica,
m small, round-headed examples. Very nice ware Vander
Cruysen, Victor Suvart, Cocarde Orange, Ham,' Melat
Veitch, Jos. Vervaeue, Bernard Andn i, .'.'an Peeters, I
!■ of plants (1st Prize and
■a ,

For a collection of 100 Azalea indica, 50 to 00 centimetres
in diameter, there were several competitors, and the 1st Prize
ami a valuable work of art fell to M. Maenhodt van Melle,
Mont St. Amaml. The plants were as well bloomed as pos-
sible, ami nicely assorted as regarded colour. Tin -.
Coppe, A. Boisig, Mail.' Planchon, Ceres, Madame van der
Cruysen, punctulata, Princi I m..' de Nassau, and

Apollon took ..ur fanny, but selection was all but impossible

where all were so - I. Messrs. F. Sander & ('...wen' 2ml in

this class, by a very slight difference, not in quality probably,
nut in the choice of colours. We noted Minister I., mi de

Bruyn, Helene Chelman, 11 i i unfile Vervaene, and

l'r. si.!, nt A. Van Geert.

M. Si raphin Ai lvoet, ol Wendi ,, exhibitor oi

sixty Azalea indica, small plants, including singl Li M,

flowered varieties, securing 2nd Prizn and a Silver-gilt
Medal.

Another sixty Azalea indica were those shown by M. M IEK-
hoot van Melle, very suitably assorted as regarded colour
(2nd Prize an. I Gold Medal).

Semi-double, striped, ami spotted Azalea indica were shown
by M. K .1. Ki ii,, namely, Madame Eulart, Madame Luvins-
Spae, Arlequin, Pharalldc Mathilde, Daphne, .Madame
Seidel, Eborino [lore pleno, ami others, twelve in all.

Mr. Ki vk showed a dozen single-flowered Azalea indica,
and tlm varieties Media, versicolor, Neige de Cerise, Bi
de Vries, Reine Marie Henriette, Ceres, and Apollon
specially pleasing.

Then came a gnat number nf classes of Azaleas, and ill

certain tints, and double ami single ttowrs, low ami tall
stems, for which prizes were duly awarded; but the mere

i""111 '"" ol exhibitors' names ami addn sses, ami i r

varieties, would occupy too much of our .-.; ce The greal
number of varieties, unknow ■ bul bill" known mi this side

"I Hi.' water. Should st i in it la I,' mi, mill,-, aim , In mow llmln,

r"11 Iiowy, yei deli, ate, than tlm colours

"' 'he m ■«, i i, , We will iiain j ,., , i i 0f

which several l.L i ■■ . i. shoM ,,. m. t:. in

taking i -i Prize.
'I'lm is, nit. '..us ami in.!, rati able .Mi. K. J. Ki 1 1, «
emelj fortunate in winning prizeswith his Azaleas, ami
he allowed in many classes. IDs single-flowered variegated
varieties (twelve) gained himone 1st Prize and a Medal. In
this group we noted Louise Van Houtte, Profcssoi Walter,

Dam,' M, laiim. Madam.- Aim. Van I I i:, .,„. (les

Amateurs.

11 Haei & Wille, at S rghcin, were winm rs

or a 1st Prize and a Medal in double-flowered ■
\ a I. a indica.

\ coliec mil' mo Azalea indica grown as low standards,

" hieli likewi ic c sted of the finest mo I. i ill of

which were densely flowered, were shown by M. E. Vercau-

1,11 mi .Miiir. i-.t ].■ a .I,,, | a ,n n. (( i „, ,,. Comte ,i

Asambord, .1. .1. D. Llewelyn, Bi njamin Silli nci ,

Pharailde Mathilde, Johann Biu cln r, Perle de Li deb

bos Oswald de Kerchorc, Madi J. Vervaene, Marie

^ ■' ' a. in', ami many more \ ei \ beautiful.

1st Pii.:.' an. I Silvei mil Medal tn P. \ IX Resterghem-Rom-
i. n i. :.47, Monl si. Amaml. a very choice lol nf standard

Azalea indica, including ll.i sa,afine double rosi ; Cha

1 ". limy rod, semi double ; Vei vai aeana, Madai

■ , Ni"l" , Mm . ,vc.

'. ai.a iii. .lbs and Ghent \ il.a, w, -n- numerous and well
grown, especiallj standards of tlm former, with 3 to 6 reel
-ti in-.

'Hi' hi Azaleas, as bushes and Low standards, Hanked the
central grass avenue, ami contained mostof the nev varie-
ties. "I in were Bhov. n by M. Ji i in- u ki Hi vst,

I ... ' hristy, near Ghent. They were an e\ I roils

lot of plants.

1-t Prize ami Gold Medal ! . a
Azalea mollis, in nearly all varieties nf colour, and 4 to 6 feel
high, were particularly showy.

M. David Wultepotte, of Loochristy, showed I
mollis as low standards, 2-feei stems, splendidly bloomed.

1st Trize ami Silver Medal, 1st .las-, to Vn i i. \ i tbi
wight, Loochristy, for Spiraea lloribunda, a pretty white
species,

RHODODENDRONS.

In this division there was provision made for numerous
classes of Rhododendrons, which, however, were not well
filled; in fait, Rhododendrons were few throughout. Some
small plants were shown by Mr. David Woltepdtte,
mostly English hybrids.

Mr. K. J. KrvK, who is the successor to 51. Aug. Van Geerl .
received an Award of a Silver-gilt Medal foi a group of
R. Prince Camille de Rohan, a light-coloured variety, with a
smallish, compact truss, ami of free-flowering habit. Should
make a good forcing variety.

CACTI.
Cacti were well represented at the exhibition, and five
1st prizes were gained by Frantz on Laet, Contich, i
Antwerp, for Cacti and succulents; a work . I too

francs for ninety Cacti, Phyllocacti, Epiphyllums, am
Gobi Medal for twenty-nine Agave, Aloe, and other succu-
lents; Silver-gilt framed Medal for twenty-nine Can ; Silvei
Medal of the First Class for twelve, and a Silver .Medal for a
lot of 200 Cactus sim.lliugs. Specially remarkable were
Cereus fragriformis, covered with over 200 flowers ; C.
lividus, 2 metres high, and many others, all well cultivated,
without a spine spoiled. Echinocactus Wislizeni, 2 feet
across— a splendid plan! : Iv piiosusStainesii; fourE. ornatus,
1 foot across, all fine plants; E. texensis, I foot, n
splendid pale yellow Rowers; and a lot of other plants, all
showing successful culture. The 200 Cacti seedlings also
were much admired,

288

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[May 6, 1899.

FOLIAGE PLANTS.

These formed features as groups, and as a mask to the walls
(canvas) of the building. Being mostly contributed by the
trade, specimens conspicuous for very large size were not
observed, although much that was very creditable to the
trade was seen on all sides.

As coming from M. de Sjikt freres, we remarked a grand
plant of Cycas tonkinensis of perfect form, furnished with a
full crown of leaves, and of a height of 6 feet. The same
exhibitor staged Livistona brachypoda, a compact-growing
species, with broad, much divided leaves, obtaining a 1st
prize in each instance, as also for an example of Chamrerops
humilis argentea, of a height of 0 feet, and very dense in
grow tli.

M. K. J. Kuvk exhibited a pretty lot (twenty) of Cocos
Weddelliana. Dractena Doncetti were shown as large and
half specimens in cases, "showing superior cultivation. One
large exhibit and several small ones of climbing Asparagus.
We noted A. comorensis, A. medius, A. scandens deflexus,
A. virgatns, A. Brousonetti, A. Sprengeri, and A. plumosus
nanus.

One good collection of twenty-five species of Ferns con-
tained plants of Aspidium car yota? folium, Pteris Wimsetti,
P. ( tuvrardi, Asplenium Lucidnm, Todea sps., Microlepia
liirta cristata, Gibotium regale, 0. princeps, Nephrolepis
Giesbrechti, N. davalloides multiceps, Alsophila Moorei, and
various Ad ian turns.

Of the striking-looking Dracaena Massangeana there were
several exhibits, in large and small examples, and in every
instance the plants were massive in habit and perfect in
shape and in leafage. Extra good plants of Aralia Sieboldi,
and A. S. variegata in dozens were noted, stems and foliage
of great robustness. Dracaena Brnanti was well shown, also
Pandanus Veitchi, not growing in very large pots, but yet
furnished with strong foliage, having the variegation well
brought out. Of this plant many exhibits were noted, some
being of the customary commercial sizes. Araucaria excelsa,
a plant made much use of on the Continent, was extensively
exhibited from plants l£ foot high upwards.

The exhibitor of the finest dozen, M. K. J. Kuvk, had A.
cordata, A. Leopoldi II. (excelsa var.), A. albo-spica, A.
viridis glauca, Arc. The second best dozen, to which many
persons would accord the first place, were shown by M.
Georoes Fretin, and it included A. Cooki, Professor Mnlleri,
a species with upward-turned branchlets, very distinct ; A.
Cunninghami excelsa, A. C. glauca, A. Rulei, A. excelsa
glauca robusta, A. Joseph Napoleon Baumann, A. Roi des
Beiges, an elegant variety of excelsa, and A. Bidwilli.
MISCELLANEOUS.

The Brotbers de Graaf, of Leyden, exhibited Narcissus
in considerable variety, including Barri, Poeticus, Leedsii,
incomparabilis, Polyanthus, intermedins, bicolor, and Empress
forms— an excellent representative collection. A Gold Medal
was awarded for this lot. Messrs. Barr also exhibited in this
section.

M. J. F. Vervaene-Vekvaert & Co., Silver Medal of the
1st class for seedling Authurium, new, of 1899, dull pink in
colour.

Messrs. Robert P. Ker & Sons. Aigburth Nui series,
I.i\ erpool, showed a great numl er of plants of their strain of
Hippeastnim, which resemble in most points those we are
accustomed to see at the Royal Horticultural Society's
meetings. They were awarded 1st Prize and Work of Art by
acclamation

A collection of useful and injurious insects were shown in
glass cases by the Twin-en Landbouw, Just what we require
in England in all schools of horticulture. Each insect was
designated by its vernacular and scientific name.

A few exhibits of twenty-four small plants of Citrus sinensis,
profusely laden with ripe fruit, were remarked, their height
being 2 to 2j feet, and the form a columnar bush. The best
were trnm M. E Lossy, Mont St. Amand, and the next best
from M. Jules Lossy, Cnudale.

Mrs. Briggs-Burv, Accrington (gr., Mr. Wilkinson), showed
Cattleya Mendeli, Quom House var. (First-class Certificate),
and C. M. Duchess of York (First-class Certificate).

Messrs. Sander <fc Co., St. Albans, Herts, were awarded a
Cultural Certificate for a plant of Cattleya Schroder* ; and
an Award of Merit for Cypripedium insigne, vars. Chantini
X Chamberlainianum.

Messrs. Charles worth & Co., Heaton-on-Mersey, showed
Cattleya Schrodera? Heatoncnse (First-cla s Certificate), Cypri-
pedium Hyeanum (Sallieri Hyeanum X Spicerianuiu) (Award
of Merit), and C. Mansclli (Award of Merit).

MANCHESTER & NORTH OF ENGLAND
ORCHID.

April 27.— At anictiigheld in the Coal Exchange, Man-
chfster, on the above date, there were present Messrs. Q.
Shorland Ball (Chairman), G. W. Law-Schofield, A. Warburton,
D. B. Rnppart, P. Weathcis, J. Cypher, K. Johnson, W.
Holmes, and J. Mills (Hon, Sec).

G. Shorland Ball, Esq., Wilmslow (gr., Mr. Gibbons),
showed Cymbidium Ballianum (First-class Certificate) ; Odnn-
boglossum I loradinei (Award of Merit) ; O. triumphans (Award
of Merit) ; Phalseopsis Luddemanniana (Award of Merit) ; also
a group of plants for which he was awarded a Silver Medal.

Thomas Statter, Esq., Whitefield (gr., Mr. Johnson),
showed l.'lia iatnna (Award of Merit), Epiphronitis Veitchi
(Award of Merit), Cymbidium eburneo-Lowianum (Award of
Merit), Eulophiella Elisabeths (Award of Merit), and a group
of plants (Silver Medal).

Samuel Greatrix, Esq., Whalley Range (gr., Mr. McLeod),
exhibited Cypripedium Chapman! (First - class Certificate),
Lycaste Emperalor (Award of Merit), &c.

J. Leemann, Esq., Qeaton Mersey (i^r., Mr. Edge), had
Cattleya intermedia (Award of Merit), C. Sehilleriana (Award
of Merit), and a group of plants, for which an award of a
Silver Medal was made.

A. Warburton, Esq., Haslingden (gr., Mr. Lofthouse),
obtained a first-class Certificate for Cattleya Mendeli.

H. Greenwood, Esq., Haslingden (gr., Mr. Gill), showed
Dendrobium nobile gigantcum, H. Greenwood's var. (First-
class Certificate), and Odonloglossum Huniiewellianuui
maximum (First-class Certificate),

TULIPA DlDlERI ALBA.— We hear that this rare
Tulip is now in full bloom at Ard Cairn, Cork. In
the bud state it is described as equal to a Xiphetos
Rose, with a frond of Maiden-hair Fern. The
blooms are all perfumed similar to Sweet Pea.

Enquiry.

Crown Imperials and Double-flowered Daffodils,
usually profuse iu bloom, come up this year with
abundant leaf and very few flowers. Can it be
explained? They grow in a border somewhat
traversed by tree-roots. II'. T. , April 29.

*y to <p*

orrcjpondentu

Ants in Orchid-houses : Veritas. Ants are better
got rid of from the Orchid-house, and one means
is to place in their rnus a bone in a pan, and as
often as the bait has attracted a sufficient
number take it outside and pour boiling-water
on it. Anything which attracts them to a centre
may be used to trap them, and if they can be
found in the house in numbers, and where killing
them inside the house can be done without injury
to the plants, boiling water may be poured on
them.

Beetles : Windsor. Next week.

Correction : Our correspondent, "I!. D," wishes
to correct a statement in his note on p. 25S, upon
the Vaudas at Kunnersbury Park. There were
100 or so racemes of flowers, not this number of
single blooms.

Cucumbers, Tomatos, and Beoonias : R. W.
The Tomato and Cucumber plants have been
attacked by fungi common in forciug-houses.
The fungi may be temporarily checked by spray-
ing with potassium sulphide ($ oz. in each gallon
of water), or Bordeaux Mixture. The real reason
for the trouble is that the air and moisture of the
house are unsuited to the plants. Have you not
too severely forced the plants ? Endeavour to
obtain a more vigorous growth, by using a little
less fire-heat, by the admission of fresh air on all
occasions when the conditions of the weather out-
side are suitable, and by securiug as much light
to the plants as possible. The injury to the
Begouia is caused by a mite, and may be remedied
by dipping the plants in Tobacco-water or by
treating tbem with Tobacco-powder. Further
particulars of this pest to Begonias may be found
in the Gardeners' Chronicle for November 9,
1895, p. 544, and November 16, 1895, p. 586.

Daffodils: G. K. They have been allowed to
suck up some aniline dye. We should not
advise you to buy any bulbs. — A. C. Yon
should get Burbidge's The Narcissus, L. Reeve
& Co.

Imantophyllum : G. B. Yes. there are many
varieties.

Low Temperature: R. F. The winters of
1S79, 18S0, and 1881, were remarkable for hard
frosts throughout England, Wales, and Scotland,
and numerous exotics of reputed hardiness were
either killed or badly injured. On December 4,
1879, 12° below zero, or 44° of frost, were noted
iu Peeblesshire.

Manure : Windsor. What you send is sulphate
of iron or green vitriol. It is useful as a manure,
and is specially recommended for Boses. A
quarter of a pound to a gallon of water.

Misleto on Oaks : //. /. R. The species found
on Oaks and Chestnuts in Italy is Loranthua

europams. That which grows on Apples, Maples,
and other trees is Viscum album. A third
species, Viscum laxum, is said to grow on Pinus
sylvestris, in the Valley of Non.

Muscat ok Alexandria Grape-vine : Anxious
One. The bunches present the appearance of
having been checked by cold. Perhaps you do not
close the vinery early enough in the afternoon.

Mustard in an Hour: Subscriber. Nonsense.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — T. N., Epsom. 1, Berberis
Darwini ; 2, Berberis, seedling from Darwini
apparently ; 3, Forsythia viridissima ; 4,
Skimmia japonica ; 5, Cedrus, perhaps C
atlautica. — A. A. Dalzcll. Leucothoe axillaris. —
Molesey. Pyrns salicifolia. — A. M. 1, Oxalis
Ortgiesiana ; 2, Marjoram ; 3, Thuya orientalis
variety ; 4, Jnniperus virginiana variety. — R. G. J.
Tritonia crocata, Cape of Good Hope. — /. L.
1, Skimmia japonica ; 2, Spiraea prunifolia
variegata ; 3, Arorus gramineus variegatus. —
W. Ih The Codireums (Crotons) are — 1, super-
bum : 2, Laingi, or Heathi elegans ; 3, Queen
Victoria ; 4, Disraeli. We cannot name the
Rhododendrons from the flowers sent. — F. 0.
1 and 2, Dendrobium thyrsiflorum ; 3, Dendro-
bium cariniferum ; 4, Dendrobium Boxalli ; 5,
probably Dendrobium Devonianum — flower
withered. — ./. E. Albuca species (probably
minor), but we cannot be sure of the species
without seeing leaves. — W.andS. The speci-
men was withered. It is best to send specimens
of Roses to a nurseryman who grows them
largely. They can be compared by him with
living specimens. — L. B. The miserable scrap
was dried to tinder when we received it. It is
probably the Snowy Mespilus, Amelanchier vul-
garis.— No Letter (received in a new year's card
box). The scented Pelargonium is P. crispum,
the other plaut Sedum Ewersii. — C. S., Ipswich,
1, Celsia cretica ; 2, Asplenium bulbiferum
biforme ; 3, Hoya carnosa ; 4, Adiantum for-
mosum ; 5, One of the Daturas, but not
recognisable without flower ; 6, Asplenium
bulbiferum. — J. S. C Skimmia japonica.—
G. W. C, Aberdeen. The variety of Cattleya
Schrodera? is very distinct, the other species also
good. The rose-tinted bloom is Vaada Palish i
Marriottiana, the small Oiloutoglossum a variety
of 0. x Audersonianum. — F. P. Ornithogalum
nutans. — A. R. 1, Phalaris arundiuacea varie-
gata ; 2, Aubrietia deloides purpurea ; 3,
L'orydalis lutea ; 4, Lastrea species, send mature
fertile frond ; 5, Send iu flower ; 6, Sedum
rupestre ; 7, Polypodiumglaucum; S, Cyrtanthus
species, impossible to say which without flowers ;
9, Adiantum formosum : 10, Polystichum angu-
lare proliferum. — /. A. Eriobotrya japonica
(Japanese Medlar).

Nurserymen's Protection Society : E. J. A.
You had better communicate with the Nursery
and Seed Trade Association, Ltd., 30, Wood
Street, Cheapside, London, E.C.

Pelargoniums : F. E. We cannot undertake to
name florists' varieties. Send specimens to some
grower.

Rose Madame Louis Carique : S. S. This variety
is mentioued iu Max Singer's Dirtionnaire des
Roses, where it is described as a H. P., of
average size, full, and in colour vivid carmine.

Straweerry-leaf Disease : ./. G. Your leaves
are attacked with the fungus Sphaerella Fragaria ,
figured in Gardeners' Chronicle, June 28, 1890,
p 799. A weak solution of the Bordeaux Mix-
ture will be found useful in this case, aud the
best time to apply it is once iu every two weeks
when the crop has been gathered. The dressings
may be continued until September.

Tulips : S. II'. We should be inclined to blame
the mice or wireworms for the damage done. Can
you send a few bulbs for our inspection ?

Communications Received. — F. M.— E. C— W. B. H.— M. D.
—A. C— M. M., Geneva.— II. I. K , Florenoe.— H. H. H.—
Sir J. L. — C. B. r. - - J. Chilcott — H. Milne-Redhead. —
T. Roberts.— W. E.G. -John Russell.— Visitor.— D. T. F.—
Rev. Hilderic Friend(next week).- II. H— A. C— Sir C. S.
— T. C.-Lord I.- J. H..—C. R. F.— G. G.— E. C— R. W. A.
i :. T. D.— A. C. F.-C. S. F.— E. Branch, Windsor.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
R. C. H. (many thanks ; not suitable for figuring). — A. C.
(many thanks ; nselul). — J. George (very line plants ; we
have, however, figured similar ones on many previous
occasions).

[For Markets and Weather, see p. z.)

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

289

THE

No. GiQ.—SATUBDA 7, MA Y 13, 1899-

THE CLYDESDALE ORCHARDS.

A T a recent meeting of the Scottish Horti-
-^"*- cultural Association held at their Rooms
in Edinburgh, Mr. Wilson, of Murdostoun,
Lanarkshire, himself a large grower for market,
gave an account of the orchards of Clydesdale.

Mr. Wilson began his lecture by paying an
eloquent tribute to the picturesque beauty and
fruitfulness of the Clyde valley, the abundant
crops yielded by the orchards, uninjured by
surrounding manufacturing and commercial
establishments ; the huge boughs of the fruit
trees overhanging the hedges near Braidwood,
the palatial homes of the Grahams. The aspect
and the soil of this locality are specially suited for
fruit growing.

A few of the more notable orchards that stand
out prominently for high cultivation are < !i i/.y
Glen, Dalzell, Brownlie, and Garrion. Some of
these orchards receive as much as 40 to 50 tons
of farmyard manure a year. Few or no weeds
are visible, and almost fewer signs of starving
the land or slovenly culture can be seen in
Clydesdale. On the other hand, preserve and
jam factories abound in all directions. Thus,
the proprietor of an orchard can readily convert
the perishable, soft fruits into commercial
commodities within easy distance.

Most of the growers have added Tomatos,
ilorist's flowers, and nursery plants as well as
vegetables to the products they cultivate.
Dealing in poultry, milk, butter, and pigs are
also commonly engaged in. Young trees are
also preferred to old ones, and though several
old orchards are still to be found in Clydesdale,
some few years ago the fruit from an old
orchard at Carsethom realised the sum of
.£1000, the orchard being 30 acres in extent.

Cropping between the trees, unless for cleaning
purposes, is generally condemned. Growers
are also careful to secure the best skilled labour
obtainable for such orchard-work as pruninw
digging, and planting.

Lord Hamilton of Dalzell has enclosed 10 acres
with wire-fencing, and made colossal runs for
MOD fowls, for the double purpose of benefiting
both fowls and fruit-trees and bushes.

Clydesdale has long been famed for its fruit,
and at no period has the industry been engaged
in with more spirit and more money invested
in it, and more skill shown, than is the case there
to-day. Only through skilful culture and
carefully disposing of the best fruit can success
be realised. The people are awaking to the
vital importance of fruit, and the demand grows
and ready markets are always open.

The proprietors of the land are mostly
the large landlords of the district, between
whom and the tenants the kindest feelings and
pleasantest relations exist. Among these, the
following are the chief : — Lord BelhaVen,
Wishaw ; -Tames Hamilton Houldsworth, Colt-

ness; Lord Hamilton, Dalzell; LordNewlands,
Mauldslio Castle ; James Scott, Garrion ;
Henderson Hamilton, Dalzell ; Major-General
Lockhart, Cambusnethan ; their palatial homes
nestling more or less close to the comfortable
dwellings of the fruit-growers. A visit to
Garrison Bridge at the annual sales, or to any
of the commercial centres, will quickly convince
anyone of the business capacity of these hard-
handed, clear-headed sons of toil. And the
growers are as expert in handling the spade
and pruning-knife as in driving bargains.
Gooseberries, for example, having special treat-
ment in Clydesdale, abundance of young wood
being left unshortened, carry immense crops
of fruit. The gatherers of Gooseberries are
also experts, equal to gathering from 3 to
4 cwts. a day, and earning from 2s". to 3s. del.
in wages.

As to manures, some apply it annually ;
others every second, third, or fourth year.
Most of the growers prefer farmyard, others
artificial manure. Two of the best professional
growers, Mr. Deans, of Garrion Towers, and
Mr. Angus, of Dalzell, strongly recommend gas-
lime and bone-meal, the lime to be exposed a
year before applying it. Mr. Deans applies bone-
meal in the spring, at the rate of one ton per acre,
withgrandresults to fruit-trees and Gooseberries.
The fruit on the 10 acres of the Dalzell orchard
was sold on the trees for £321, being an average
of £32 per acre. Surface-mulching instead of
digging has not answered in Clydesdale ; and in
orchard-cultivation the digging-fork has almost
superseded the spade.

The Kinds op Fkuit Grown.

Some thousands of acres in Clydesdale are
under Strawberries, and the prices given for the
fruit last year ranged from £30 to £38 a
ton, a crop from three to five tons per acre
being the average. Garibaldi and Elton Pine arc
still favourite varieties, though the new variety,
Royal Sovereign, is making progress. The plants
are mostly grown in 4-feet beds, and they are
allowed to stand for five years. This Clydesdale
fruit follows closely on the heels of the English
supplies. Gooseberries are second to Straw-
berries in commercial importance, and White-
smith, Red Warrington, and Sulphur are the
leading varieties. Early Kent, Crown Bob,
Lancashire Lad, and Whinham's Industry, are
also popular. Gooseberries range in price from
£8 to £12 per ton, and an acre four years
planted yielded last season 4 tons 2 cwt.

This is Mr. Wilson's short selection of Apples
complete : Dickson's Ringer is the best for cold
districts ; Cambusnethan Pippin, Stirling Castle,
Beauty of Murray, Ecklinville, Cellini, Fulwood,
Norfolk Beaufin, and Lord Sultield.

Pears again nearly all do well, particularly
Williams' Bon Chretien, Moor Fowls-egg,
Beurre Hardy, Beurre Diel, Marie Louise,
Thompsons, and a few other varieties.

Of Plums vast quantities are grown for
marketing and preserving. Victoria, Kirkes,
Coe's Golden Drop, Magnum Bonum, Jefferson,
Orleans, and Pershore, being the favourites.
They are mostly grown as pyramids or bushes,
and kept in a fruitful state by lifting and root-
pruning.

Currants, either red or white are not popular
fruits. The red and white Garrion Tower
Currants have been so well grown as to com-
mand prices of from £10 to £18 per ton. There
is not much demand for Cherries, though the
Morello does exceedingly well.

Raspberries ore rising in popular estimation,
Fillbasket, Superlative, and McLaren's Prolific

being the favourite varieties, the best crops
being obtained in most instances from land
that is mulched with manure and not dug
yearly.

Black Currants do well, but the Currant-bud
mite has proved a sore trial to the cultivators,
and, so far, it has resisted all remedies. Mr.
Wilson recommends frequent planting with
clean young stock, bought at a distance. The
Clydesdale growers mostly plant varieties which
they distinguish by the names green and brown-
budded.

The secret of success, said the lecturer, con-
sisted of brains, energy, soil of the best, a
hopeful disposition, and indomitable perse-
verance. The crazes for cheapness, the effects
of foreign competition, of high rents, rates and
taxes, the cost of manure— all tended to make
success more difficult every year. Still, the
great home industry of fruit-growing in Clydes-
dale grows and expands.

The fruit despatched in 189G by railway
amounted to between 3000 and 4000 tons ; and
by road for short distances, 300 tons ; of
Strawberries, 200 tons ; and Gooseberries, 350
tons ; and Plums, Apples, and Pears in enormous
quantities wero sent away.

So far as sewage has been used in fruit-
growing in Clydesdale, it seems to have been
successful. Mr. Wilson concluded his paper with
a few statistics that should fill fruit-growers with
hopefulness for the future.

Some years ago a grower set aside 25 acres
of his best land for growing Strawberries,
and McLaren's Prolific Raspberries. He
dressed it with (id tons per acre of farmyard
manure. The returns last year from this land
reached £1,950. True, the expenses, labour,
rent, rates, &c, have to be deducted from this
big gross sum, but surely enough would remain
to satisfy the most ambitious, after all the
claims of capital, labour, and skill had been
abundantly satisfied. I>. T. F.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

♦

DENDROBIUM WARDIANUM ALBUM.

The colours of the typical D. Wardianum are so
bright, and the dark blotches on the Iabellum so
distinct, that au albino form is very remarkable. The
variety candidum is pure white with more or less
traces of the dark-coloured blotches at the basr of
the yellow disc.

D. W. album, iu which uo trace of the dark
markings appear, first flowered in the Downside
collectiou, and later, but very rarely in other
gardens ; a fine form of it being figured iu Lindt uia,
ir., p. 73, as D. Wardianum Lindema;. An
equally good example of it has now bloomed with
H. Gary Batten, Esq., Leigh Lodge, Abbot's Leigh,
Bristol, the plant being a newly imported one with
seven strong leading growths. The flower seut is
pure white, the only colour present being the
orange disc. James O'Brien.

Vanda teres.

This beautiful Orchid is making a fine show in
the Cattleya-house at Parkfield, Worcester. The
plants are cultivated on teak rafts placed at the
end of a span-roofed Banana-house, where they are
exposed to all sunshine. They are heavily syringed
throughout the summer, but are kept drier duiing
winter. The two largest rafts bear over forty
spikes of bloom, and the others are equally well
flowered. Altogether there are over 200 spikes.
They vary both iu size and colour. Some of the
flowers are very light, being nearly pure white,
and one variety has especially large and dark-
coloured blooms. There are some blooms open at
most seasons of the year. V. Hooker* succeeds

290

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

under the same conditions, but does not flower so
freely. Epidendrurn bieornuturn, suspended from
the roof in pans, without any shade, flowers from
every young bulb.

Id another house Vanda iusignis and suavis are
flowering well. Eulophiella Elisabethas has two
spikes, with twenty-five flowers and buds uu cieh.
S. W.

WHEAT AND TULIPS.*

(ContinUi dfrom p. 275.)

The Garden Tulips. — The introduction of
these to European gardens is, thanks to the
sensation they caused from the first, tolerably
well known. When Augerius Ghislenius Bus-
bequius, the ambassador of the Emperor
Ferdinand I. to the Sultan, in 1554, arrived
in Turkey, he saw flowers of these varieties for
the first time in a garden between Constanti-
nople and Adrianople.

The origin of our word Tulip is traced fn im
the Persian "Dulben," the Nettle-fibre cloth
(Urtica dioica), such as the Turks bind round
their fez, and this head covering resembles the
cup of the flower. The Turkish name of the
flower is "Lale." It is probable that one or
another Tulip may have flowered in Venice at
an earlier date. As Professor Colin informed
the author, there is a large picture in the 11 of
Museum of Vienna, by Vittore Carpaccio
(scholar of Giov. Bellinis, 1522), portraying
Christ surrounded by angels, on the arch of
which flowers of Leucoium, Narcissus pseudo-
Narcissus and yellow and red Tulips can lie
discerned. The flowers are, as I have myself
remarked, so indistinctly drawn that it is
impossible to identify them with certainty.

We are then told that C. Gesner, in 1559,
saw the first garden Tulip in Europe outside
of Turkey, in Heinrieh Herwarth's garden at
Augsburg, and in 1561 he wrote a description of
it; and this species was none other than our
present T. Gesneriana. It is very probublo that
this Tulip was raised from seed which Busbe-
quius, who had greatly enriched European
gardens, had either brought or sent home ; and
there is nothing which could renderthat unlikely,
excepting the brief period of time — 1554 to 1559.

It is known that seedling Tulips (lower the
third year, and in four or five years this cir-
cumstance is of common occurrence. But the
Tulip had got sooner into the hands of the Dutch
thau of Clusius, for we read that, in 1570, it
had got to Mecheln (Malines), the third centre
of distribution ; and the apothecary, J. Muler,
concocted a preserve of the bulbs with sugar,
which he found much superior in sweetness and
flavour to that made from Orchid tubers !

In the year 1577 a red-flowered Tulip was
seen in Brussels for the first time, from the
seel of which Boisot and several " nobiles
in /'mint," raised variously-coloured progeny.
From this Boisot seed sprang our Tulipa Gesne-
riana, bulbs of which bloomed at Frankfort in
1590.

Independently of Clusius, the Tulip had
already reached Holland, for it is related that
the Amsterdam apothecary, Wallich Zieuwertsz,
to the great astonishment of everyone, had
some in flower. When the celebrated Clusius
removed to Leyden, he took some of these
Tulips and other rare plants, such as Scilla
peruviana (which sold for 41) florins per root) ;
the first Liliuui imperial e (Crown Imperial),
valued at £7 ; and other plants, which no one
else possessed, and which were not to be pur-

Weizen I Tulp uiid deren Geschichte, von H. Grafen zu

Bolms - Laubacb, Profes <■ > Botanik'an der Universitafc,

Strasbur^. (Leipzig: verlag vou Arthur Felix, 1899 I

chased for any money. In 1590 we find this
T. Gesneriana by Jan von Hoghelande of
Leyden, and by Prediger Joan de Jonghe of
Middleburgh in 159G.

As money could not buy Clusius' plants, it
was only nat ural that people should form a plan
to steal them, which was done by night, the
finest and best being taken ; whereat, it is
related, he lost heart and energy. Having
stolen the bulbs, the thieves made every effort
to increase the stock of them by sowing seeds
and in other ways, so that it was asserted that
the seventeen provinces of Holland wore filled
with them.

In England, the introduction of the garden
Tulip is traced to Clusius, who sent some bulbs
from Vienna between the years 1578 and 1582.
. We learn from the Bivgraphiq BritaHinicd;
vol. iv. , p. 2402, in instructions from Hakluyt
the elder, printed for the use of English mer-
chants, concerning articles of commerce in
Turkey, "and now within these four years
there have been brought into England from
Vienna in Austria divers kinds of flowers
called Tulipas ; and those and others procured
thither, a little before from Constantinople, by
an excellent man called M. Carolus Clusius."

According to G. Kraus, the Tulip readied
Montpellier in 1598, and in other towns, as Aix
in Provence ; in 1590' it was found at Lucerne,
and gradually spread all over central Europe. :

At one time it was believed that the Tulip
owed its numerous colour variation to good
culture in the Netherlands, and that in its
eastern home red and yellow varieties existed.
But this is an error ; for, according to Clusius,
the seeds he received from Busbecq produced
at once a number of varieties, a circumstance
that could not have occurred had the Turks
possessed only two varieties. That the varie-
ties were many is proved by two Turkish MSS.,
secured by Diez, and now in the possession of
bile Berlin Library, one of which he completely
translated into German, and of the other only a
portion.

The first of the two MSS., entitled Die
Wagt <!■ i Bl it men .(The balance of flowers), was
written by I he sheik Mahammed Lalizari, who
lived under the Sultan Achmed 11 1. (1703-1730),
and more directly under the great Yiziriate of
Ibrahim Pascha (1718-1730), and for whom the
MS. was written, which is proved by the
remark on the first page where he says that
Ibrahim caused him to write it. Lalizari stood
well at the court of the Sultan, and received
from the latter the cognomen, Schukjufe' Per-
weran (keimer of flowers). This little work of
Schukjufe Perweran was carried out with toler-
able thoroughness under two headings, of which
the first described the twenty properties of
beauty, and the second gave directions for
cultivating Tulips from bulbs and seed.

A concluding chapter treats similarly of the
yellow Narcissus. A number of varieties of
Narcissus and Tulips are mentioned, some
casually, and others as affording examples, many
of them being designated by, to us, very
familiar names. The second Turkish MS.
carries the title "Amenity and Beauty," and ci in-
sists of a systematic catalogue of various sorts of
plants, affording the names, the country of origin
of the seed, ami description of the flower, but
never stating which kind of plant is intended,
but which Diez believed to be a bybloiinn
Tulip. As the author mentions 1,323 varie-
ties, and describes seventy-four fully, an idea
may be formed of the variety of the Tulip
culture in Turkey in that age. And further,
Diez calls attention to the fact that "the

twenty rules of beauty " agreed in their
limitations with those current in all civilised
European countries, with a few exceptions in
particulars. He alludes in this matter to the
clear and precise statement of the same by
Philip Miller, and draws the conclusion that
these rules at the introduction of the Tulip
formed the foundations of its cultivation in
Europe. The only difference in the rules con-
sisted in the Turkish Tulip having a pointed
petal, whilst Europeans preferred a rounded
one ; and, in fact, all of the original Tulips
brought out of Turkey, as is seen in Clusius'
drawings, belonged to this category.

To-day, in Holland, Tulips are divided into
two classes — selfs, or Mother Tulips (breeders),
(French colours), and variegated or broken
(French Paragons) ; and these are again divided
into two principal sub-classes, Bizarres with
yellow grounds, and a variety of markings, and
Flamands, which have white grounds ; and
when the variegated markings are of a violet
tint, they are known as Bylcemens, and when
these are red they are designated Roses.

The several coloured Tulips, the so-called
Masquetrines of the old French nomenclature,
were never held in any great esteem in Holland.

All the celebrated old varieties, as Semper
Augustus, Admiral Lief kens, Gouda, &c, of
which coloured drawings still exist, were simply
"byblcemens" or "roses."

The first double Tulips appeared about 1665,
which the Count finds mentioned by Vallot
as T. lutea centifolia ; another, called Sol,
mentioned by Terizel, 1090, had 24 petals ; and
another, Solo Sicut Sol, with 200 petals ; which
he said he should value more than Semper
Augustus ; and others are mentioned under
various mines, so that double Tulips began to
appear in Europe at rather early dates.

The so-called Papagie Tulips (Peacock Tars.)
appeared towards the end of the 17th century.

We may in an early issue of the fzardenertf
Cliroitirlf continue Professor Count Solm's story
of the Tulip in Europe, and deal more espe-
cially with the so-called Tulip mania of the
seventeenth century.

FRUIT GROWING.

Experiments iu fruit-growing have been in
progress at the Agricultural Station of Laramie,
Wyoming, since 1SU2, under the direction of Mr.
B. C. Buffun, M.S., and the results which have
now been published demonstrate to those wdio are
looking for homes in the far West the fact, that
Wyoming has horticultural possibilities of her own ;
and we think the facts may, further, be useful to
fruit-growers in the old world.

The soils of the State are. as a rule, quite rich
in the inorganic plant-foods, principally lacking in
humus or vegetable mould, which supplies nitrogen.
It is found advantageous to supply fruit, more
especially orchard fruit, with some fertiliser rich iu
potash. Wood-ashes, when they can be obtained,
answer the purpose well. Farmyard manure has
proved a perfect fertiliser, and is used abundantly.

In deciding upon the location of an orchard,
which is always an important step, it is stated that
a north slope is preferable, because the snow stays
longer iu winter, and the buds are not apt to start
too early iu the spring. A well-drained soil is
strongly recommended, because fruits should not
be made to take up more water thau they actually
need. The amount of water required depends on
the character and slope of the soil and subsoil, the
condition of the weather, the kind of tree, whether
in bearing or not, and the season.

In some orchards fruit trees are so disgracefully
pruned, that a word of protest is added. In ampu-
tating the limbs of a man, it may be wise to take

fQ MaV 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

291

it off as far from the trunk as possible, but in
pruning fruit-trees always pursue exactly the oppo-
site policy. Many make a practice of cutting off
limbs 2 or 3 inches from the trunk or main
branches, which makes stubs that die and leave
behiud a diseased place or ugly scar. Whenever
a branch or limb is removed, it should be cut off as
close to the trunk or branch upon which it grows
as possible, making a smooth cut, over which the
bark will grow and hide the wound.

loping where they are not wanted, and pinching-
back slender shoots to increase fruitfulness, and
make a well-formed tree.

Give orchards clean cultivation, never allow
weeds to grow, and give the surface of the soil a
shallow cultivation often. It is not recommended
to grow any kind of Grass in the orchard. If crops
are raised on the laud between young trees, they
should be planted some distance from them, and
should consist of some hoed crop, which require

FlP. 100. — I'KAc.ENA DOT/CETTI FOL1TS VARIEGATES,

In cutting-back the tops of trees, the method
preferred is to make slanting cuts with a sharp knife
or axe, rather than sawing the limb squarely off. In
cutting-back top branches, cut off just above a bud
or brand), so that there will be little or not any of the
branch left which will die below the cut. Any
serious pruning of the Apple should be done in
the spring, before the buds swell. Cherries and
Plums should be pruned in the summer, for if they
are cut at other seasons, gum exudes from the
wounds.

Summer pruning should never be severe, but
should consist in rubbing-off buds which are deve-

shallow culture, and does not grow tall enough to
shade the trees.

Rows of Currauts and G ooseberries may be
plauted between the Apple-rows, but such fruits as
Raspberries are not so good, as they grow tall, and
require digging for their winter cultivation, that
the roots of the trees are apt to be injured.

Raspberries succeeded remarkably well in this
vState, and the following results are quoted : Red
varieties gave an average yield of 1400 quarts per
acre. Yellow varieties gave an average yield of
920 quarts per acre. Blackcaps gave an average
yield of 830 quarts per acre. The yields computed

for the two seasons 1895 and 1896 give an average
for all varieties grown of 953 quarts per acre.
The market price was 25 cents per quart, giving
an average value of 238 25 dollars. The cost of
raising a crop of Raspberries is estimated at
18 dollars. This, with the total expense of picking
and marketing the berries would make the cost
65 65 dollars, which leaves a net profit per acre of
172-00 dollars, equal to £35 19s. 2d. per acre.

Strawberries grown in 1896, in thirty-one
varieties, gave an average yield of 6920 quarts per
acre. The prices ranged from 10 to 15 ceuts per
quart. Taking the lowest price, all varieties, good,
bad, and indifferent, would have an average value
of 092 dols. per acre. The estimated cost of raising
an acre of Strawberries is put down at 93 dols.
It is thought this would set out a new acre of the
very best plants every year, allowing 4 dols. per
thousand for the plants. Three cents per quart
would be a liberal estimate of the cost of picking,
boxing, crating, and hauling to market ; or a total
of 20S-00 dols. per acre. The total cost, including
picking, setting out new beds each year, &c, would
be 301-60 dols. This leaves a net profit per acre of
390-40 dols., equal to £81 6s. 8d. per acre.

The largest yield of Strawberries per acre in
1896 was with the variety "Jucuuda Improved,"
which gave 11,645 quarts ; the second-best was
"Pride of Berries," which yielded 11,220 quarts
per acre; and the third-best was " Edgar Queen,"
which produced 10,285 quarts per acre.

These experiments indicate the success which
may attend the careful fruit-grower, and the im-
portance of the fruit industry in that country.
/. •/. Willis, Harpe.nd.en.

DEAC^NA DOUCETTI FOLIIS

VAMEGATIS (Fig. 106).
This handsome variegated-leaved Dracaena has
now stood out in front of my house without my
protection whatever for nearly four years, having
been planted out in the summer of 1895, after the
severe and destructive frost of January 4, 5, of
that year, which, had it beeu exposed to it, would
doubtless have killed it to the ground at all events,
as it did a fine 15-feet-high specimen of D. australis,
which however has shot up again with great vigour,
and has already attained to more than half its former
height. The amount of frost experienced here was
29° for one night, 27° and 25° for the two following,
and then a complete and rapid thaw. W. E.
Oumbleton.

CHISWICK.

Time was when this much-honoured garden was
difficult of access, but that drawback exists no
longer, rail and tram afford frequent and rapid con-
veyance, and the gates of the gardens are always
open in proper hours to visitors. They preserve to
Chiswick an invaluable open space.

An inspection of the Chiswick Gardens shows
great promise for the coming season, and many
trials of interest are being carried out, which will
be of interest not only to ourselves but to the
numerous foreign "raisers," who, it is hoped,
will visit us this summer on the occasion
of the Hybridisation Conference. At the out-
set it may be stated that the condition of the
grounds is excellent. Here and there is a section
of a border waiting tillage and replanting, but
such spots are few. The visitor cannot but feel
that the Council in appointing Mr. S. T. Wright
as the superintendent of the gardens to carry on
the work so well performed for so long a period by
Mr. A. P. Barron, made a bappy choice.

Leaving the Council chamber, and going to the
right, to the northern wall, there is to be noticed a
rare trial of Violas, six strong plants of each variety
appearing in each row, the trial reaching the whole
length of the border, all the leading varieties
being included in it. The cordon Peach and Necta-
rine trees on the wall on the left-hand show a thin
crop owing to the action of the keen frost at

292

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1S99.

the end of March, though the trees were protected
by a double covering of netting. Then, turning
southwards by the eastern boundary, Mr. "Wright
points out that the border by the wall is to be
employed for a thorough trial of French Beans.
The cordon fruit-trees on the wall are generally full
of blossom. On the right hand, in addition to the
old plantation of bush Apple-trees, a new one has
been planted, and as a means of quick identification,
the varieties are arranged alphabetically, running
from east to west. This occupies the site of what
was formerly a thicket of Plum-trees.

What was formerly a plantation of old Apple-
trees, is now devoted to Strawberries and trials of
vegetables, and adjoining this and reaching nearly
to the great vinery, is a plantation of Plum-trees
also alphabetically arranged. An inspection of the
large vinery shows that the rods are making
vigorous growth ; and here it may be said that, in
common with the vinery, the Pear-trees on the
west side of the main dividing-line of wall promise
unusual fertility, being full of blossom.

The rockwork at the west-end of the vinery is
shortly to be remodelled and replanted ; the col-
lection of Primulace;e, presented by Sir John
Llewelyn, Bart., have not succeeded well, and will
be transferred to pots. The broad border on the
right of the walk, leading westward from the
vinery, is to be planted with Cactus and Pompon
Dahlias, which will form an interesting and valu-
able trial. In some of the beds on either side of
the walk are some new species and varieties of
Tulips, sent by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons.

Southward there is a large trial of Peas, also of
newer varieties of Potatos, Sweet Peas, and there
is a large batch of Mr. Martin Smith's Carnations,
looking remarkably well and growing vigorously.
It should be said that on the north side of the large
vinery there in an important trial of spring-sown
Onions. There are also Cauliflowers in frames
ready to be put out in the open.

The pits are full of interesting plants, and amoug
them some hybrids sent by the Rev. C. Wolley-
Dod, for the proximate conference. In the propagat-
ing-house is a trial-selection of Caladiums. In the
Tomato-house is a large collection of plauts in pots
commencing to make a vigorous growth. The old
vinery, in which the plants are of considerable age,
promises exceedingly well, and so do the other
houses devoted to Grape culture. The house of Figs
looks cajiital ; there is au abundant promise of fruit
on every hand and in the Peach-house the planted
trees and those trained against the back wall are
rich in promise.

This is but a hasty sketch of what may be
regarded as the programme for the season at
( Ihiswick. Given favourable weather, high develop-
ment may be looked for, and the Fellows of the
Society, if they will but pay a visit to the Society's
gardens during the summer will find much to
iuterest aud instruct. Wandi n r.

The Hardy Flower Garden.

1

THE MUSCAIU.
AMONG the most troublesome of all tasks to
which a gardener can set himself, is that of verify-
ing the nomenclature of certain plauts. The more
one works among these, the more necessary
does it appear that some one would take them in
hand and give us, not only careful scientific
descriptions, such as appear in the Qardenertf
Chronicli , but also faithfully coloured illustrations.
In some genera verbal descriptions, however careful
aud precise, are not enough to meet our difficulties,
nor can the dried plants in herbaria fully show the
minute distinctions needed in some cases. Those
who have ever tried to solve the puzzles presented
by the Muscaris or Grape Hyacinths will agree
with the writer in thinking that few genera present
more difficulties. Could we but have a series of
monographs, such as that of the Lilies, by Mr.
H. J. Elwes ; that of the Croci, by Mr. George
Maw ; or the forthcoming one on the Narcissi,
by Mr. F. W. Burbidge, we should have less

difficulty. Unfortunately, the writers who possess
the combination of talents uecessary for such
work are exceedingly few, and it must be
admitted that those who would seek to possess
these monographs would be small in number,
aud would be still further reduced by the unavoid-
able cost of production of such works. In writing
then of the Muscaris, it will, I hope, be accepted as
a necessary proviso that I do not profess to say
with authority that all of the Grape Hyacinths
named are without dubiety so far as regards their
nomenclature. The difficulty has been much in-
creased by the impossibility of keeping a collection
separate. They seed so freely, that in the
course of a short time they are almost hopelessly
intermingled, and could only lie separated by oue
who thought of little else but Muscaris, aud whose
knowledge of the genus was more precise than most
mortals can ever acquire.

Some few 3'ears ago, I made a collection of all the
Muscaris I could obtain. They were planted side
by side, aud now the confusion is'complete : and the
only way to deal with them, is to remove them
while in bloom with as much regard as possible to
the necessity of putting the right tally to the right
plant.

One cannot but advance strongly the proposition
that the Muscaris are not enough grown. Their
beauty is great. Even at the risk of quoting
familiar words, one can hardly refrain from giving
Ruskin's graphic and picturesque reference to the
flower in the lecture on "Athene in the Earth,"
which is to be found in The <Jaeen of the Air.
He says: — "The Grape Hyacinth, which is, in
South France, as if a cluster of Grapes aud a hive
of honey had been distilled aud compressed together
into one small boss of celled and beaded blue."
As we look upon the flowers now in bloom
amid the grass, in the borders, and in the
rock-garden, we think how well our great
English writer has depicted their beauties.
Those of us who take delight in such things are not
content with the flowers of " celled and beaded
blue," but none the less do we admire them,
although we seek to grow the varieties given us by
the operation of Nature's laws. These are of other
colours or of other shades thau those of which
Buskin spoke, but we may yet say that no flowers
are more beautiful than those whoso colouring aud
form met with the approval of his artist eye.
The others have their beauties too, and we see
them with pleasure, whatever the colour of their
flowers. Black-blue, cobalt-blue, azure-blue, pearl-
blue, pure white, flesh-white or pink ; all are alike
lovely to those to whom flowers give joy. Some
may have some reservation in saying as much of
the Musk Hyacinth or M. comosum, both of which
appeal, perhaps, to our other feelings more, but
even these possess much of interest.

Before I proceed to say something about the
species and varieties which I have seen or grown, it
may not be unprofitable to say a little about their
cultivation, although, under this heading there is
not much room for discussion. Nearly all the
cultivated plants give little trouble, and the excep-
tions may bo treated of with but small detail.

Generally of small stature, the Muscaris do best
in the front row of the border, in rockwork, or in
grass. In any of these positions they will grow
with but little preference for any particular soil,
yet they seem to do best where it is of a light
nature. In grass they are very pleasing, aud a
mass of the conical racemes of M. botryoides,
with the green carpet given by the grass, looks
exquisitely beautiful in April and early May.
Most of the species increase rapidly by offsets or
by seeds ; so quickly, indeed, do some increase in
certain gardens that they are looked upon as weeds
— but weeds of beauty worth retaining.

One except inn in many gardeus to the ease of
cultivation which applies to the greater number of
the species is M. moschatum, which in such places
generally flowers the first season, but not in suc-
ceeding years. It appears to require a hot position,
and thorough ripening in summer. M. comosum
is easily grown iu light soil. S. Arnott.
(To fie continued.)

South African Notes.

— - - ♦ _

JOHANNESBURG.
(Continued from page 276.)

To many people the word Johannesburg conveys
the idea of a huge ugly mining camp, set down iu
the middle of a vast treeless plain. The reality is
quite different. Climb up the rocky hill above
Doornfontein suburb and survey the great forest at
your feet of deepest blue-green Eucalyptus aud
Pinus insignis, interspersed with miles of roads
lined with handsome villas, each with a charming
garden screened from the public gaze by neatly-
trimmed hedges of Cuprcssus macrocarpa. Beyond
are the towers and domes of the great town,
and further off are the mines — huge heaps of white
sand, the rock from which the gold has been
extracted, tall, black iron smoke-stacks, and con-
fused masses of galvanised iron buildings, from
whence comes the never-ceasing roar of the
stampiug batteries, like breakers ou an iron-bound
coast.

Let us descend and enter one of the miniature
Edens we have just caught a glimpse of. Passing
the garden-gate, we are in a sheltered spot,
where wind and dust can hardly penetrate ;
hence mauy plants thrive here which are failures iu
more exposed situations. Next the hedge is a
broad border edged with Violets and gay with
Cactus Dahlias, new Cannas, Tea Roses, and
herbaceous Phloxes. In the background is a very
healthy Cedrus Deodara, '20 feet high ; a fine
Juniperus bermudiana, and a Cupressus Law-s.oniaua
in perfect health. A Pinus canariensis is noted,
but this flue Couifer must have shelter to do well ;
near by is a large Laurustinus, aud a Benthamia f ragi-
fera, laden with fruit. Ou the well-kept lawn in front
of the house are a few Camellias, bristling with
buds, aud a hybrid Rhododendron, not very happy.
The main walk is bordered with large plants of
Azalea indica iu tubs, which bloom well in the
spring. Ou the cool, shaded south side of the
house is a border filled with Hydrangeas, Fuchsias,
and Pelargoniums, a Tree Fern, aud a couple of
Musa Ensete. The porch is festooued with Rose
Reine Marie Henriette and Celiuo Forestier, and
the verandah adorned with hanging baskets of blue
Lobelia and very large rambling plants of Maude-
villa suaveoleus aud Wistaria sinensis. On one
side of the house rocky steps lead up to a well-kept
croquet-lawn ; a trellis - work ou one side is a
mass of Ivy-leaf Pelargonium iu full bloom. A
small orchard at the back is plauted with Peaches,
Apricots, and Apples, all of which bear well.

Such is oue of the many well-kept gardens one
sees ; but iu the middle of town are a great many
ugly iron shanties, with not a scrap of gardeu-
ground or anything green in view. It was to
give pleasure to the unfortunate people living in
such streets that my main object was to make
this park as attractive as possible. True, I have
had many failures, but then such is always (he
case. " The workman hath iu his heart a purpose ;
he carrieth in mind the whole form which his work
should have ; there wanteth not in him skill and
desire to bring his labour to the best effect ; only
the matter which he hath to work on is unframe-
able." Hooker's Polity, quoted in a note to Gary's
Dante, Par. Canto I.

Owing to our very dry winter and spring, all
plants which flower early in the year do not thrive
very well here — such as Tulips, Hyacinths, Daffo-
dils, Narcissus, Anemones, Iiauuuculus, Snowdrops,
Cyclamen, and most Cape bulbs (they have a moist
winter aud spring at the Cape). Yet Englishmen
delight to have some flowers in their gardens to
remind them of their far-off homes, so Violets,
Primroses, and Daisies, arc general favourites, and
often do very well ; so also do Columbiues and
Pansies. Honesty I have tried to grow in vaiu !
When the rains fairly set in from Midsummer to
autumn, theu Roses aud Carnations give plenty of
bloom, and make a very good show. Later ou,
annuals give satisfaction, together with Cannas,

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE:

293

Tuberoses, Heliotrope, Pentstemons, Pampas Grass,
Phloxes, Campanulas, and Chrysanthemums. The
only Mowers which can be relied on through the
winter in the opeu are, Phlox Drummondi, Candy-
tuft, Indian Pink, and Mignonette.

There is a considerable demand for cut flowers
and Funis of all classes ; we have morning sales of
cut flowers and pot plants in the market, and
nearly half a dozen florists shops in town. During
the summer, all demands are supplied from local
nurseries, but in winter the Cape and Natal sends
us Poses, Azaleas, Callas, Heaths, and Proteas,
for as yet no oue has gone in for forcing fruits,
vegetables, or flowers under glass. The vegetable
market is very well supplied all the year round ;
and the growers are mostly local Italians and
Portuguese.

Of fruit and fruit-trees and tree planting, I have
something still to say before bringing these ram-
bling notes to a close. JR. W. Adlam, Joubert Pari:,
Johannesburg, Transvaal.

(To lie contin 10,1.)

Cultural Memoranda.

THE PROPAGATION OF VIOLETS.
In reply to Mr. F. Strong's criticism in the
Gardenq/rs' Chronicle, p. 268, I may say that I
wrote my note as a reminder to those who, from
lack of the uecessary convenience for earlier pro-
pagation, or from choice, use the strong side-
growths which are found upon plants that have
flowered in the winter in cold pits or frames. When
the old plauts have been properly attended to
during the winter there is little difficulty in obtain-
ing healthy runners with roots attached, and if
such are planted and afforded the necessary atten-
tion they form good plauts by the autumn. O. S.
Fielder.

AGAPANTHUS r/MBELLATCS.

This plant in warm localities is so far hardy as
to withstand ordinary winters, if afforded some
slight protection ; but the practice is not to be
recommended, high winds damaging the leaves,
and making the plant very unsightly. The old plants
should be occasionally divided, or repotted, using
loamy soil as a basis, dried cow-manure, saud, and
bone-meal, doing the potting with some degree of
firmness. In the growing season they require much
water and full sunshine.

Repotting should not be performed frequently,
but the size of the specimens and their condition
will afford the gardener indications in this matter
When large plants become pot-bound, they derive
benefit from being turned out and divided, and on
no account should a richer soil be used than that
indicated, or flowers will be but sparsely produced.
Division should be carried out during March or
April, and the plants placed in a forcing-house and
be daily syringed, and after a few days hardened
oft', in readiness for placing out of doors.

The Agapanthus is semi-aquatic, and the best
position for it is near a basin, a lake, or a stream,
as much water is required ; indeed, the plant may
be deluged with it in its season of growth. During
the winter, just sutticient water should be afforded
as will preveDt loss of the leaves ; and the fuller
the rest, the better the results in the matter of
flowers. As soon as frost approaches, the plants
should be taken indoors, where frost can be excluded.
H. T. M.

Alocasias.

The noble proportions and handsomely - marked
foliage of these plants should commend them to all
lovers of omameutal-leaved stove plauts. Within
recent years several magnificent varieties have
been introduced to our gardens, and the genus has
become thereby more popular than was the case at
one time. All the species, with the exception of
A. macrorhiza variegata, require stove treatment
throughout the year. During the growing season,
which extends from March to October, the plauts
require a temperature of 70", with a rise to S5°,

accompanied with abundance of humidity. A
temperature of Go0 in the wiuter will suffice, and
the supply of water, both overhead and at the
roots, at this period must be considerably reduced ;
still, these plants should not be dried off, but be
kept gently growing.

The variety A. macrorhiza variegata, when well
grown is admirably adapted for greenhouse or con-
servatory decoration, but it is now seldom met
with, owing probably to the tendency of thejeaf-
colour to degenerate. A well-grown specimen of
this variety should have its large light-green leaves
heavily blotched with white. To succeed in main-
taining this characteristic a too-liberal treatment
should be avoided during the early stages of growth.
The end of the month of February is a good time
for repotting those specimens that require it, and
young plants may be repotted at any time when
it is necessary. A light open -oil is essential, viz.,
oue consisting of three-fifths librous peat broken
up by hand, and two-fifths chopped sphagnum-
moss, little bits of charcoal, and sharp silver-sand.
The pots or deep pans in which the plants are
grown should be clean and well drained, i.e., the
potsherds should be well placed, for much water is
needed by the plants. The pots or'pans should be
half filled with drainage, ami over this a thick
layer of the roughest of the compost should be
placed. Having thus prepared a pot, carefully
remove some of the exhausted soil, and place the
plant on the new material, the crown of the root-
stock coming somewhat higher than the rim of the
pot; then fill in with soil, finishing it olf in a
convex form, or the thick fleshy stems will be apt
to decay.

When the repotting is finished, place the plants
in the warmest part of the stove, and supply them
with tepid water, so as to wet every part. The
after-treatment will consist of frequent syringings
with clean rain-water, and damping the paths and
stages twice or th rice daily. Char soot-water afforded
. at alternate waterings does good. Thrips and red-
spider sometimes appear on the plants, but these are
easily eradicated by sponging the leaves with tepid-
water in which a bit of soft-soap is dissolved ; in-
deed, the plants are much benefited by an occasional
sponging of the leaves. Propagation is effected by
dividing the crowns at the repotting. A few of
the most desirable species are A. metallica, A.
intermedia, A. Jenningsii, A. Martin Cahuza:,
A. Lowi, A. argyrea, A. zebrina, A. Sanderiana,
A. Vcitchi, A. Mortfontainensis. //. T. -1/., Slom
It iij/i .

Clematis flammula.

This is, perhaps, one of the oldest Clematis in
cultivation, and it is of use hi covering trellis-work,
the stumps of trees, &c. ; the flowers are not
showy, but they have a most delicious fragrance,
and they are produced in huge masses. The plant
is readily increased from cuttings taken oft" with a
heel, and put in sandy soil under a hand-light. The
roots of this variety are frequently used for grafting
the more beautiful varieties upon. Many years
ago, when I was employed in Fisher, Holmes &
Sibray's nursery at Sheffield, the roots were simply
slit down and the wedge shaped scions inserted,
tied, and then potted and plunged in a warm pro-
pagating-house ; and, if my memory serves me
aright, they never had any losses among the grafts.
//. Markka m Wrotham Par!:.

The Rosary.

— *

NEW ROSES, &c.
With regard to the new Roses which are being
brought out, there is no diminution in their numbers,
for I find that the foreign raisers annouuee forty-
four Teas, fifteen hybrid Teas, and fifteen hybrid
Perpetnals ; it will be seen that this list varies
considerably from what we used to have when the
Hybrid Perpetnals comprised the great bulk. It
does not at all follow that we shall have the
opportunity of seeing many of these, indeed the
experience of the last few years points to the

contrary ; but it is different in regard to our home-
raised Roses, which the Waltham Cross, Cheshunt,
and Newtownards firms have brought forward.
There is no doubt we shall have the opportunity of
seeing these, and some interest will be excited by
the Gold Medal Roses which have been thus
honoured by the National Rose Society.

There is another point which rosarians will do
well to bear in mind this year ; the National Rose
Society will publish a new catalogue in the autumn,
and its members are particularly requested to
notice the new varieties which will be exhibited,
in order to see which are to be placed in the new
catalogue, and also what Roses at present there
are to be expurgated, for, while many varieties still
retain their place in the favour of the Rose-grower,
there are others which have to give place to newer
ones of the same colour, which possess some
superiority. There are, it is true, some varieties
that are less likely to be excelled, such as General
Jacqueminot, which has been in cultivation forty-
six years, and others of our home-raised Roses, like
Beauty of Waltham, thirty-seven years. What a
multitude of flowers have come and gone during
that long period ! The National Rose Society will
not hold a southern exhibition this year, and there-
fore there will not be such an opportunity of seeing
garden Roses as there has been during the last two
or three years, for the date of the Crystal Palace
shuts out a good many of the early flowers in this
sectioD. Most of the seedling Roses are past, and
if we are to see them anywhere it will most pro-
bably be at the Royal Horticultural Society's show,
at the Drill Hall. No doubt there will be garden
Roses at the Palace, and probably some of our
northern amateurs may be able to show them in
numbers. Wild So

Trees and Shrubs.

SORBUS AUCUPARIA, L., S DULCIS LACI-
NIATA, Beissneb.

Is the number of Die Qartenwdt for March 5
last, Mr. L. Beissner, oue of the first Germau den-
drologists, describes the above new variety of our
common Mountain Ash, and a coloured plate very
well illustrates the beauty of this novelty. The
variety, it is said, is a natural sport of S. Aucuparia
var. dulcis (moravica). In 1893, Mr. Ordenny,
head gardener of the Prince of Lobkowitz, at
Eisenberg, near Borix (Bohemia), discovered the
ni! ither plant in the highest regions of the (Bohemia)
Ore mountains.

Mr. Beissner describes the plant as follows :—
Branches and stalks of leaves bright dark blood-
red ; leaves thin and regularly laciniate, like fronds
of Ferns, of a deep lustrous green in summer, golden-
yellow in autumn ; lowest leaves of totally different
form, curled ; the ripe fruits are tile-coloured,
edible like those of S. Aucuparia moravica, in
taste resembling those of our common red Bilberry
(Vaccinium vitis) when preserved.

This new sport of S. Aucuparia is as hardy as the
typical plant, and if planted where it has a dark
background, will produce a very beautiful effect.
C. K. S.

The Herbaceous Border.

THE BEDDING VIOLA OF THE FUTURE.

There is still need for a race of early flowering
Violas. Of the many hundreds of seedlings which
are raised annually, and of the numerous varieties
sent out every year, nothing that I have seen can lay
claim to special precocity. Beds of Hyacinths and
Tulips especially, have a dreary appearance until
the beginning of April, wheu the plants begin to
develop their flower-stems. But if we had a race
of Violas that would come into bloom with the Crocus
and the Primrose, they would be of great value,
especially in our London parks. Large patches of
grass are in full glow of vernal beauty ; Crocus,
Scilla, Chionodoxa, Narcissus, Tulip, &c, vie with

294

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

IMay IS, 1899.

each other in cheerful floral service. But the
flower beds are yet dreary, except where there is a
margin of early spring flowering bulbs. Even
Myosotis dissiti flora, except in highly favourable
spots, is not yet in flower.

That the Viola can be "educated " into precocity,
there can be no doubt, just as the late Mr.
William Ingram of Belvoir "educated," as he
happily termed it, his Wallflowers, Anemones, and
other spring flowers into the habit of early blooming.

The mistake made by some raisers of new varie-
ties is that they think its highest service is on the
exhibition table. Its real service is in the flower
garden, and especially in early spring. That is a
matter, there is reason to fear, too much overlooked
by those who raise seedlings. Habit of growth has
been made subordinate to the shape and size of
the blossoms. The Viola of the future should be
early flowering, because an early variety can also
be employed in the summer display ; but no
resource can make a Viola that flowers naturally
in May to bloom in March. An earlier bloom
could lie obtained in the open by taking cuttings
in July, placing them in a cold frame, which would
bring the young plants into bloom earlier than if
wintered entirely in the open, and planting out as
soon as in flower.

It is a ridiculous designation to term the present
day Violas, as some do, "tufted Pansies." Too
many of the newer varieties are by no means of
close tufted growth ; they are, instead, lanky,
and can be employed with effect in the flower
garden in association with other plants which
furnish a kind of support. What is wanted
is a really tufted growth, dwarf and compact,
with the flowers produced in symmetrical
masses well above the leaves. Varieties which
throw their flowers at irregular heights are
not effective in the flower-garden. Persistency
in bloom is another point, the property of
lasting in flower for a considerable time ; so long
as Violas produce seeds freely, so long will there
be loss of bloom. Freedom and continuity of
bloom, and sterility in seed-bearing, should cha-
racterise the Violas of the future. Then endurance
is required, meaning thereby the property of
enduring hot sunshine and drying weather. The
heat and drought of last summer brought out
the peculiar weakness of many varieties which
flower through one half of May and June, and then
go down under the heat of July. Further, the
newer Violas should be as far as possible mildew-
proof, fc'ome take the mildew speedily, and soon
terminate their floral services ; those that endure
are but few. The rayless aud miniature varieties
appear to be constitutionally weak, and unable to
stand our southern hot summers. It is possible
that the efforts made to withdraw from the flowers
anything in the way of coloured ray-lines round
the eye has led to breeding to a great extent in-and-
in, with resultant weakness of constitution.

There is ample room for an improved race of
Violas. Early flowering, persistent, and consti-
tutionally vigorous, a race is wauted which, if
planted out in October, will be in bloom at the end
of March ; and with the assistance of an occasional
top-dressing, continue in bloom till September.
There must be so much of constitutional vigour as
to resist such attacks as mildew ; and so much of
sterility as will conduce to a continuous, well-sus-
tained bloom. He who can produce such a race
will be a benefactor to floriculture. Florist

Variorum.

The Broccoli Traffic in Cornwall.— lu

the early part of the season the Broccoli crops looked
anything but promising. But things took a
turn for the better, and the toothsome vegetable
not merely came on fast, but in very flue condition.
On one day in the second week in April, there were
dispatched from the stations of Penzance, Maraziou,
St. Erth, and St. Ives, 223 truck loads. It was the
record day of the season, and the largest quantity

of Broccoli ever sent in one day from West Cornwall.
Taking the quantity loaded and dispatched on that
day to average two and a half tons to the truck,
it gives a total of 557J tons. The crates usually
average thirteen to the ton, so that the total number
of crates would be 7,427 ; and carrying the calcu-
lation a little further, and estimating the crates to
contain five dozen heads of Broccoli each, which is a
fair average,' we have a total of 434, S20 Broccoli.
The West Briton.

Foreign Correspondence.

LANDSCAPE GARDENING IN CALIFORNIA.

Liberality is a prominent trait of the American,
as has recently been illustrated in California. The
International competition for the best soheme for a
State University, in Berkeley, is hardly over, aud
is yet fresh in everybody's memory. Mrs. Phcebe
Hearst supplied the means which made such an
undertaking possible ; and the eleven landscape
architects, fortunate enough to win prizes in the
preliminary competition, visited us to study the
grounds, and compose new designs for the final
competition to be held in September ; this year
not in Antwerp as hitherto, but in San Francisco,
our metropolis. After the adoption of the final
plan, a prize of S00O dols. will be awarded to the
successful designer. The grounds comprise some
250 acres, and are to be widened to about 300, to
include the grand piles of rockery, will be
designed and laid out to correspond with the noble
work of structural architecture. The slope, at the
foot of which these buildings will be erected, is
grand in shape aud outline. It faces south-west,
lies opposite the Golden Gate, the entrance to the
spacious Bay of Sau Francisco, aud rises from 200
to 550 feet in elevation, having Mount Grizzly at its
back, and surmounting it. Small groves of old
Oaks (Quercus agrifolia) grow along the banks of
the creeks across the site, aud clumps of Eucalyptus
that can be turned to account when remodelling
the landscape.

Mrs. Hearst's generosity goes even further than
this. The idea has been conceived that the streets
of San Francisco should be improved, and in
response to the invitation of the above-named lady,
the architects here examined the city also, aud
are to lay before us suggestions aud plans for the
improvement of a site as graud as that upon which
Rome was built, aud as charming as is the country
around Naples.

Some of the leading ladies of the city have
established the "California Club," and their self-
imposed duty is to add everything possible to the
beautifying aud improvement of the surroundings of
the town. Playgrounds for children are to be
opened, beginning with the providing of gymnastic
aud other apparatus on vacant spaces, the laying-
out of race-tracks for the boys of the town, and the
arrangement of saud-heaps for the youngsters to
play in. Most of our public squares create an im-
pression that the gardeners who laid them out
learned their profession from practising the making
of sand-heaps and mud-pies. Slowly but surely
we are awakening from such conditious, and the
grand charter, formed from ideas incorporated
from those of the best municipal governments here
aud abroad, aud adopted now for our metropolis,
will come into force next January. The require-
ments of the Civil Service will rule in all depart-
ments, and gardening in our squares will be free
from disturbing political "pulls." It is the ladies
of the "California Club" also who have taken up
the idea of layiug-out our squares effectively. It is
proposed to furnish the most central one entirely
with shrubs and trees from our own forests. And
should we uot be proud of our flora, and feel
ashamed of having neglected to profit by its
charms for so long'.' Our nurserymen have given
up growing Californian shrubs, because nothing
but Palms aud Bananas would suit the gardeners
and their clients. It would be well if. for some
years to come, some pest, even worse than the
San Jose scale, would devour every stift'-leaved,

varnished-looking Palm grown by us. Monterey
Cypress, Austrian Pine, and Eucalyptus trees,
form the mass of the plantations in our parks, and
only gradually are these being replaced by plants
that should have been grown under their shade for
teu or fifteen years past.

And as we try to improve on a small scale iu our
towns, we are also realising the need of greater
care of our forests aud preserves. Oue tract after
another has been set aside from entry by settlers,
and we are bound to secure the yet remaining
plantations of timber along the main water-sheds.
A new society has been formed for this very pur-
pose, and it has met with the hearty co-operation
of every club working on similar or affiliated lines.
Future visitors to our State will find signs of a new
era, and will give us credit for uudertaking an
important enterprise before it is too late to perfect
it. Gi'o. Hansen.

RUXLEY LODGE.

Lord Foley is making a considerable addition
to the glass structures in the gardens at Ruxley
Lodge, his residence near Esher. During the
past two or three years he has built a moderate-
sized Cherry or orchard -house, with two divisions,
aud a case or two to enclose some fine specimen
Fig-trees, that used to fruit well upon a pro-
tected wall, but not with equal certainty to those
inside. An old Rose-house has been removed, and
a fine and lofty structure with a lantern-roof
has just been completed upou the same site. But
these are quite minor additions and alterations
compared with the large conservatory now in course
of erection.

The residence will be extended on the west side
by an elevated passage, which will connect with a
tower, now being built, at a distance of 120 feet
from the house. This tower will be upwards of
SO feet high, and will command extensive views
of the Surrey and Sussex landscapes. The wall
from the house to the tower will be something like
20 feet high, and upou reaching the tower will
make an elbow for a further distance of 55 feet.
The conservatory will follow this wall, aud the
leugth of the structure will therefore be about
174 feet, 119 feet of which will have an aspect
nearly due south, and 55 feet will face the east.
Its height is to be about 30 feet, the back of the
roof resting on the above-mentioned wall. The
width of the conservatory will be 20 feet through-
out. This house will be very much the largest in
these gardeus, aud will afford plenty of space for
standard Orange-trees, Palms, Tree- Ferns, Myrtles,
Eugenias, Araucarias, Camellias, Azaleas, &c.,
many of which will doubtless be planted iu borders,
where growth is more free than iu the case of culti-
vation in pots or tubs.

Lord Foley enlarged the dwelling-house a couple
of years or so back, by building a billiard-room and
library ; and previous to this considerable buildiug
had been done to render the accommodation of the
stables more complete.

It has been a matter of much inconvenience
at Ruxley that there exists a public footpath
through the park, which passes the south front of
the dwelling at such a distance that pedestrians
were in full view from the flower-garden and the
sittiug-rooms. Last autumn efforts were made to
lessen the inconvenience by throwing the soil into
two terraces, which now moderately well screen
the footway, and when the Yew-trees that have
been planted upon these banks have grown up, the
screen will be an effective oue. Several acres of
land have been added to the pleasure-grounds,
and new walks are in course of formation, that will
approach a mile iu length.

The Fruit PboSpects
at Ruxley are at preseut very satisfactory. The
Vines, without exception, are showing good crops,
and the earliest Grapes are now colouring. The
trees in the earliest Peach-house, like many in the
suburbs of London, have not more thau a thin crop,

Max 13, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

295

but those in the succession-houses and late ones
will need to be thinned severely. Figs, always a
specialty at Ruxley, have been in use for dessert
since the end of February ; and Melons will soon
be ripe. As in numerous other gardens, the
variety Royal Sovereign is now the favourite
Strawberry for forcing, and some plants now fruit-
ing in pots are carrying an unusually heavy crop
of fruits of first-class quality.

Out-of-door fruits of a tender nature have been
greatly affected by the weather, but there will

MARKET GARDENING IN THE

CHANNEL ISLANDS.
In supplement to the series of articles from our
"Special Correspondent," describing the very ex-
tensive horticultural trade now existing in the
Islands of Jersey and Guernsey, we now reproduce
a photograph of one of the steamers by which the
produce is conveyed to the mainland for distribu-
tion iu the markets. For this purpose, and for the

she been secured to the wharf, than a number of men
commenced to unload the horticultural cargo,
passing the baskets from one to the other, and
depositing them in a position, where all were sorted
according to the marks upon them.

Following this, they were immediately placed
upon some trucks waiting on a siding close at
hand, for despatch to the various markets. The
cargo on this particular day was addressed to
about sixty different markets, chiefly those of
the Midland and Northern shires.

FlG. 107.— MARKET GARDENING IN TIIK CHANNEL ISLANDS: ARRIVAL OF Till: GREAT WESTERS S.S. "I.VNx" \T WEYMOUTH,

probably be a thin crop of Apricots upou walls ;
and of Peaches also upon walls, there will be it is
hoped, as good a crop as usual. The out-of-door
Peach-crop rarely fails at Ruxley. Strawberry-
plants give abundant promise. Apples and Pears
will hardly be safe until the end of the present
mouth, but the wood was thoroughly ripened last
autumn, and there is an abundance of blossom,
now at its best.

Lord Foley takes a very close interest iu the
management of the gardens, but his veteran gar-
dener, Mr. J. W. Miller, now in his seventy-eighth
year, nevertheless finds abundant room for his
extraordinary activity of mind and body.

conveyance of passengers, the steamships of the
London & South-Western Railway Company from
Southampton, and those of the Great Western
Railway Company from Weymouth are continually
plying across the Channel. The accompanying
illustration from a photograph (fig. 107) represents
the ss. Lynx, one of the (Jreat Western Railway
Company's boats, as she appeared immediately after
her arrival at Weymouth one day last autumn.
The vessel bore very large quantities of Grapes,
Tomatos, aud other produce in cross-handled baskets,
all securely packed and labelled. No sooner had

The Week's Work.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strugnell, Gardener to the Right Hou. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

The Second Early Vinery. — The thinning of the
bunches must be done betimes, as this operation
can be carried out more easily when the berries aie
small, and the danger of piercing them with the
point of the scissors is less. They grow very
freely in size after the thinniDg. Never over-crop
a Vine, or a lessening of the vigour of the plant,

296

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

bringing in its train insect troubles, small berries,
and indifferent colour, will surely result. This
is a point difficult to give advice about, so much
depending on particular circumstances as to what
constitutes a light, medium, or full crop. As soon
as the berries are thinned a plentiful application of
water should be made to the border, aud if a
suitable liquid manure is not obtainable, artificial
manures may be employed with about equal benefit.
[A manure for the Vine should contain nitrate of
potash, 1 cwt. ; sulphate of lime, 1 cwt. ; aud
dissolved bones, 2 cwt., and this manure may
be applied at the rate of 2 lb. per superficial
square yard, at intervals of four weeks (vide
Barron on Vines and Vine-culture). Ed.] The
damping of the vinery-floor and the path in the
evening with liquid manure, stimulates growth, and
aids in keeping red-spider in check. The lateral
shoots must be stopped once in seven days, and
plenty of space afforded for the primary leaves to
expand without crowding, as well as sufficient
space between them and the glass to prevent any
scalding.

Early Melons. — The earliest crop of these fruits
being in a more or less forward state, and the top
and bottom heat of the right degree, it will be an
easy matter to have ripe fruits iu the present
month. In order to ensure high flavour, the
common practice of drying off the plants by with-
holding water from the soil should be avoided.
The chief object the gardener has in view in drying
off his Melon-plants is the prevention of cracking.
However, if the plants are regularly afforded water,
the degree of moisture in the soil is not allowed to
fluctuate in the fruits less prone to splitting. For
example, if a heavy applicat ion of water be applied to
a dry soil, and the Melons are almost or quite fully
grown, some or all of them will split. When in the
last stages of ripening, each fruit should be examined
daily, and upon the slightest sign of separation
of the stem from the fruit, that fruit should be cut
together with the stalk and placed iu a cool room,
or if required for immediate consumption, on a shelf
in a warm house is the better place. Melons vary
much iu their ripening, some varieties developing
flavour, and the rind softening whilst still on the
plant ; others require to be for several days in a
cool room before perfect condition is attained.
Careful ventilating of the Melon-house is of
much importance, for if the air be moisture-laden,
a similar effect is produced as that which follows
an application of water to the roots.

General Treatment. — More seeds of Melons iu
variety may now be sown, one or two seeds in a
pot. The fruits from this sowing will ripen during
the months of July and August. The best kind
of soil to employ in the pots is turfy-loam, in
which some mortar-rubble, finely sifted, is mixed.
Melons from this sowing may be grown in tin-
heated pits and frames, provided a bottom
heat of about 80° is afforded by a bed of
tree-leaves and stable-litter. These plants
may be grown in any sufficiently warm house,
close to the glass, until such time as they are
strong enough for plauting in the pits, &o. The
soil of the beds should always be allowed to get
warm throughout before planting is done. Earlier
sown plants should not be allowed to get pot-bound
before transferring them either to larger pots or
to the beds. The stopping aud regulating of the
growth of Melons need almost daily attention iu
heated pits, and when the flowers show, afford air as
freely as may be safe, having regard to the nature
of the weather, fertilising freshly opened flowers
about mid-day, and when they are perfectly dry.
Syringing during this stage should not be pract'sei^
When it is seen that three or four fruits
per plant are increasing in size rapidly, all
superfluous growth should be suppressed. When
the roots are observed to have reached the
surface of the hillocks on which the plants stand,
apply a thin layer of warmed loam, repeating this
dressing as occasion may require, till the bed is
brought up to one level surface, but always keeping
that part of it where the stems are, higher than the
rest of the bed. In the case of loam of poor quality
having to be employed, liquid- manure may occa-
sionally be used, after the fruit has begun to swell ; or
even mauure in small quantity mixed with the soil
previous to planting. Wheu an ordinary hotbed of
mauure, &o., supplies the warmth, it is well
to cover the bed with boards or slates, so
as to keep the roots out of these materials.
The number of plants iu a pit or frame will depend
on the size of the lights, but the largest seldom
need more thau two per hillock, and for small

lights, i.e., 5 by 4 feet, one is sufficient. In all
cases the seedlings must have the point pinched
out after the first pair of true leaves have formed,
thus obtaining three to four shoots, each of which
may be allowed to carry one fruit.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Cattleya Warsceivi&Ai, commonly known as C.
gigas, is now- making rapid growth, but until the
bulbs have almost attained their full length, few
roots are made. A very prolonged rest is
required by the various forms of this species, and
even when any plant commences to grow anew,
only sufficient water need be afforded to prevent
the pseudo-bulbs shrivelling. When the sheaths
appear rather more may be applied, carefully guard-
ing against excess, especially in conjunction with a
moist atmosphere. Do not afford a top-dressing
until the sheaths have appeared. C. gigas should
be repotted only when new roots appear at the
base, even should it be during the flowering season.
That the plants appreciate light is proved by the
fact that those suspended nearest to the roof-glass
produce the greatest number of flowers. Suspended
plants become dry soon after watering, and they
are generally iu conditions more resembling those
of their natural habitat.

On Exhibiting Orchids. — At this season, a large
number of choice Orchids are usually takeu from
their quarters aud conveyed by road or rail to
exhibitions, which more often than not are held
under canvas. That the plants so exhibited suffer,
goes without sayiug, considering the difference in the
conditions obtaining in their home quarters, and
those inseparable from the exhibition-tent. One
would hardly suppose that Cattleyas and Laelias
suffer to a much greater extent than other Orchids
from this cause, but the suffering is increased
if the plants have been afforded water before
leaving the garden. This fact being understood,
plants selected for exhibition should have no water
afforded for a day or two previously, unless they
are in absolute need of it, aud then a slight
sprinkling of the surface will suffice. The latter
method should also be adopted during an exhibition
that lasts two or three days, aud also on the plants
returning home, which kind of treatment, if accom-
panied by an extra amount of shading for a few days,
will enable the plants to recover from their journey.
Another source of harm consists iu thrusting stakes
into the mass of roots, sphagnum-moss, &c,
often to the injury of many of the roots. With
small plants this may be avoided by enveloping the
pot in wood-wool, and thrusting the stakes into that.
Large plants usually have stakes fixed iu the pots
at the time of repotting, aud these cau often be
made to support a plant by splicing other sticks to
them when packing them ; but where there is none,
those required should be fixed very carefully.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrotham Park. Barnet.

Cleaning the Land. — In sunny weather let the
hoe be kept steadily at work in order to aerate the
soil and kill the weeds, this work beiug chiefly
carried out with the Dutch-hoe, let it be used
pretty constantly amongst growing crops. The
Onion crop should be takeu iu baud at an early
date, and if the plants are doing well, thin out
some of the plants when they are 2 inches high, but
the final thinning may come later on. Some gar-
deners sow- new Onion seed somewhat thinly, and
do not thin the plants. The produce is varied iu
size, and therefore economical in use. A dressing
of soot will be found useful for Onions where the
maggot is feared. Whatever the crop, thinning
should not be deferred till crowding takes place.

Mushrooms.— Beds may still be made up at
intervals in size and number to suit the demand,
and now that the weather is warmer, some beds
may be made in a cool shed, or in a sheltered
spot in the open ; the principal point to be
observed being good stable - manure from corn-
fed horses, which should be sweetened by re-
peated turning. It needs not to consist entirely
of the dung of horses, but a little short st raw-
as well may be used. Let the beds be made bit by
bit, packing the materials by treading aud beating
them, as the work proceeds. Spawning should not

take place till the warmth of a bed has sunk to 9S°,
and after that is done the beds may be cased over
without further delay ; all beds, whether iu the
open or in the Mushroom-house, should be
repeatedly examined, and if fouud dry, they
should be afforded warm water, first removing the
covering, if any. The temperature of a Mushroom-
house should not be more than 60° or less than 58°.

Seed Beds. — Let a careful examination be made
of all seed-beds, making good all mishaps without
delay. The weather so far has been unfavourable
to the germination of seeds and the growth of
seedlings, so that should mild showery weather set
in, plants raised from seed sown at this date will
iu some instances catch up those sown earlier. The
young Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflowers, Savoys, &c,
raised from seed sown iu March having made little
progress, should be afforded water, following this
with a slight dusting of fresh soot and lime.

Turnips. —A considerable breadth of land may
now be sown with two or three varieties ; those
who prefer the yellow - fleshed Turnips sowing
Golden Ball or Orange Lily, two good-flavoured
varieties. Excellent white Turnips for present
sowings are Suowball, Early Milan, and White
Stone. Keep a sharp outlook for the Turnip-flea ;
dress the rows frequently with wood-ashes, soot,
and lime, and should the pest become very trouble-
some apply water frequently, and then sprinkle
wood - ashes over the plants. The chief aim
should be the encouragement of growth in the
plants, as it is only in the seed-leaf stage that
the flea is so injurious.

Cucumbers for Pickling. — Seed should be sowu
three in a 6'0-pot, and the pots placed in a mild
hot-bed or a forcing-pit, putting out the plants ou
ridges under hand - lights when they are large
enough, and have been hardened off a little. A
warmth of 55°to 65° is ample, aud such will keep
the plants sturdy aud healthy till the time arrives
to set them out.

FORESTRY.

By A. 0. Forbes.

Shedding of Scots Firs Needles. — The danger
of leaving brushwood to rot in a plantation,
is, in mauy cases, more imaginary than real, for
it is very seldom that insect or fungoid-attack
ou living trees is occasioned by insects or fungi,
which rather infest dead twigs and small branches.
The chief danger occurs during the short period
between the cutting of the wood and that stage of
decay at which the food material of these parasites
has lost its sustaining properties, for the reproduc-
tive powers of these pests is so great, that want of
food or a suitable medium for growth, seems their
only limit. Large quantities of partially dead
shoots, in the presence of a parasitic fungus, may
thus become a source of danger to living trees
above and around it, for the air at times, beiug full
of its spores, any weak place in leaf or shoot is at
once seized upon, aud becomes a centre of infection
to neighbouring parts. An instance of fungus-
attack recently came under my notice, which
illustrated this point very clearly. Iu September,
1S97, the rides in a young plantation of
mixed Conifers (in which Scots Fir predomi-
nated), were widened for shooting purposes, aud
the cut trees dragged back under the cover
of the trees which stood behind them. This was
done partly to save trouble of burning or removiug,
and partly to provide ground-cover for rabbits,
and no further notice was taken of them. In
February of this year the Scotch Fir on the margin
of the rides began to put on a scorched appearance,
as if a fire had been lit too near them, and had
singed the needles. Inspection proved, however,
that this was due to the attack of a fungus, which
is too well known amongst young Scots Fir planta-
tions in Northern Europe, but which does not as a
rule give much trouble in this couutry, although
the fungus is found more or less on Scots Fir
everywhere. Known to mycologists as Hysterium
pinaster, it attacks the needles of the Scots Fir
generally, although its effect is more easily seen on
plants from one to ten years of age. The first
external symptom of the disease is a discoloration
of the needles, brown aud purple patches taking
the place of the green of healthy leaves. Examined
under the microscope at this stage, yellowish -
brown masses of mycelium will bo found iu the
fibro-vascular bundle of the needle, and in the
spaces between the resin-ducts. In a week or two

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

297

the iuner surface of the ucedle begins to shrink,
leaving the sharp edges projecting, these latter
ultimately curling round as the shrivelling process
goes on. In April and May the affected needles
usually fall off, leaving the shoot almost bare until
the uew shoot is developed in .1 une. In the following
autumn or spring, according to the weather,
numerous black specks appear on the dead needles,
the spermogonia and apothecia of the fungus, and
by which its spores are produced. According to
B. Hartig, a spell of wet weather is necessary for
the bursting of the apothecia and the escape of the
spores from the asci, and warm wet winters are
very favourable to the spread of the disease.
Occasionally the fructifications appear before the
fall of the needle, and this occurred in the present
attack. This disease is so widely spread, and so
disastrous to seed beds of Scots Fir in many of the
German forests, that great difficulty is frequently
experienced in regenerating cleared ground, and the
term "schutte" popularly given to it on account
of its effect on the needles, indicates the reputation
it has so long held as a parasitic pest. Under the
circumstances usually prevalent in the raising of
plantations iu this country, the spread of the
disease from one wood to the other is less likely to
occur, than iu a compact area of Scots Fir forest
where young and old plantations adjoin. After
the trees have obtained a height of a few feet it
docs not appear to give much trouble so far as
their growth is concerned, but the case quoted
above proves that favourable circumstances for its
development may render it troublesome to older
plantations. The one iu question is ten years of age,
and growing on good loamy soil, too good, iu fact,
for Scots Fir. The whole of the widened rides
have their marginal trees affected in the same way,
independent of exposure or aspect, although it is
quite possible that sudden exposure to light and
sun, after growing in partial shade, may have
injured the affected needles to some extent, and
predisposed them to attack. A few yards further
into the cover the trees are not similarly affected,
although the fungus occurs on the needles of sup-
pressed and weakly branches. At the present
time (end of April) many trees are quite bare of
needles, even up to the leading shoot, and many
others are totally brown, so that at least six weeks
must elapse before the trees resume their normal
appearance. Although appearances point to the
conclusion that the dead and decaying trees left
in the plantation after cutting, had a good deal
to do with the attack, it is possible that it is
merely a coincidence, aud that spores from
the suppressed branches might have effected
the same result had the cut trees been made away
with at the time. It is evident, however, that it
is unsafe to neglect the simplest precautions in the
presence of these minute foes of trees or plants,
and that cleanliness in a plantation may be as
necessary as in other matters of daily life.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Seedling Carnations. — If seeds were sown as
directed iu a previous calendar, the young plants
will now require to be put singly into small pots,
and subsequently removed to a cool pit or frame.
Keep the atmosphere somewhat close for a few
days, and shade the plants during bright sunshine
until the roots have again become active, wheu
quite opposite conditions will need to be gradually
introduced.

Celosias and Cockscombs are best kept in small
pots until they show signs of tlowering, when they
may be potted into 5-inch pots. For this purpose
use a rich open compost, such as three parts loam
and one part each of spent hot-bed manure and
leaf-soil, adding plenty of sand. The plants should
be kept near to the roof-glass iu a night temperature
of about 60°, and of 70° by day. Syringe freely
and often among the pots as a preventive of attacks
from red-spider. When the flowers are well de-
veloped, the plants may be gradually hardened, and
removed to the conservatory or greenhouse.

Acalypha hispida (Sanderi). — Keep a sharp out-
look for aphis in the flower racemes. They are
difficult of detection until the portion of the
raceme attacked has become discoloured. It would
be well to occasionally place these Acalyphas in a
house about to be fumigated. The lower leaves of
the plants are liable to be attacked by red-spider,
but, as the surface of the leaves is smooth, sponging

with soft-soap and water is an effective" means ,by
which to clean them.

Show Pelargoniums. — In giving specimen plants
the final tying, the shoots should be so disposed
that the flower- trusses will be equally distributed
over the plant. Examine the plants for aphis, and
if its presence be detected, fumigate them with
Richards's XL-All Insecticide. The flowering will
be greatly assisted by affording the plauts an
occasional application of weak manure- water.

Miscellaneous. — Prick out seedlings of Primula
obconica, P. floribuuda, P. v< rticillata, Ac, directly
they are largo enough to be handled, and keep them
well shaded for a time. Seedlings of Tuberous
Begonias and Gloxinias may be potted in small
pots. Sow seeds of Primula ciiinensis and Cinerarias
for early winter flowering.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Hekrin, Gardener to J. B. FortesguSj Esq., Dropmore
Maidenhea 1.
Sweet Cherries. — The growth of these trees,
owing to north-east winds and general low tem-
perature, has been considerably checked, and as a
result the black aphis has already begun to infest
the foliage. This pest should be forthwith de-
stroyed with Quassia or Tobacco - water, or by
fumigation under cloths, the remedies being re-
peatedly applied so long as any insects are observed.
The curled-up leaves form a hiding-place for cater-
pillars, which should be killed by squeezing the
leaves between the linger and thumb, and grubs
should be similarly treated. Owing to the back-
warducss of the trees, syringing with strong mix-
tures has hitherto been unadvisable, but now that
the fruit is set and swelling, the means above-named
will not be injurious. In mild weather the trees
may also be syringed with clear water, which will
help in the same way. The frosts have con-
siderably thinned the crops, if sweei (lurries, and
a full one will be an except ion iu this district.

Mori Hi) Chi rry-trt i s are a yet scarcely iu bloom,
aud they give promise of an abundance of blossom,
which at this date may reasonably be expected to
be safe from frost, although the weather still
remains cold aud unseasonable. Where the soil of
the borders of Morello Cherry-trees is heavy and
retentive, a few inches of the upper crust may be
removed, substituting soil for it with which a good
proportion of mortar rubbish aud small brick-rubble
has been mixed. In lark of a suitable sortof soil, a
good dressing of mortar rubbish alone may be
pointed iuto the BUrfacs.

General Remarks. Peachi s, Apricots, Plums, and
Cherries may now have their protective coverings
removed, as the foliage now acts as a protection
against any frost that we arc likely to have, in the
south at the least. If the copings are portable they
may remai n over the trees for another week or two as
a slight extra protection. Netting or other materials
used should be thoroughly dried aud then be put into
store. Where grafting has been carried on, the clay
coverings of the grafts will, after the dry weather
of the past week or two, require to be smeared
over with wet hands, or thin slip of clay-aud-water,
in order to till up the cracks. It is imperative that
moisture and air be excluded as much as possible
from the bark of both scion and stock, otherwise
no union will result. Strawberry-plants grown
solely for furnishing runners should have the
flower-trusses removed.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westoubirt,
Tetbury, Gluucester.

Herbaceous Borders. — The Dutch-hoe should be
used frequently. Thin out all weak growths from
plauts of Aconitum, Delphinium, Aster (perennial),
Phlox, &c. Any that have made growths 1 foot
to 18 inches high should he staked, and if the
clumps be large, drive three stakes 1 inch in thick-
ness at angles around the plant. These should be
of sufficient height. Divide the shoots equally,
and loop them loosely together with tarred-string
in such a way that the plant can grow freely.
Thin out annuals which have been sown in tin-
flower borders, allowing each plant sufficient space
for its natural development.

Pentstemons. — Autumn-struck cuttiugs should be
planted out in well-drained soil ; and if this be
poor, some leaf-mould aud sand may be added.
Pinch the points of the shoots of any that have a
leggy habit. Plants raised from seed are more
robust, and require more space.

Stocks. — The dwarf German, large-flowered, or the

Giant Ten-Week that have been raised from seeds,
may now be planted in good rich soil, either in
groups or beds, selecting for them a cool and moist
position. The smallest plants should be selected
as they usually produce the best double flowers.
Those of strong growth, with forked roots, are
invariably single-flowered varieties. Stocks should
never be allowed to become dry at the roots.
Afford them liquid-manure when the spikes are
formed and it will increase the size and colour of
the flowers.

Tuberou i-rooted Begonias. Many of the seedlings
that have been pricked out in boxes or pans will
now be sufficiently large to be potted off iuto 4-inch
pots. Well drain these pots, and add a little more
loam to the compost than was recommended for
them wheu being transferred from the seed-bed
Afford the plants but little water until the root
have again become active, but a slight damping
between the pots will be helpful. Admit as much
light as possible, but shade from the sun, and pre-
pare the plauts for transference to the beds by the
middle of June.

Megaseas, also known as Giant Saxifrages, arc
effective the whole year through. They are easy
of cultivation in good stiff loam, and if clumps
be parted and planted at this season, they will start
quickly into growth. The bright green leaves in
the summer, and the lovely tints these become in
the autumn, alone make them worthy of prominent
positions in the dressed grounds. M. crassifoliaand
M. cordifolia [purpurea are beautiful early-flower-
ing sorts that require some protection from frost.
M. Milesii is very pretty, but being delicate requires
wintering in a cold frame. What are kuown as the
New ry hybrids are very robust, and in these gardens
flower much later than others. The varieties Bril-
liant, Distinction, corrugata, Sturdy, and Progress,
planted iu bold masses on the margin of the lake
here, and in conspicuous places in the pleasure-
grounds, attract much attention from visitors. Saxi-
fraga peltata, both in exposed and shady parts of
the garden, grows freely and produces large loose
clusters of pale piuk flowers and huge cup-shaped
leaves. S. ciliata, another fine-leaved plant, is
deciduous in winter, aud requires a sheltered, par-
tially-shaded nook, aud well-drained soil.

THE APIARY.

By Expert,

Swarming and Us Prevention. — Amid the many
devices, good and bad, introduced of late years, in
th shape of "non-swarming hives," "swarm-
preventers," &c, the fullest credit must be given
to those who have given time and thought in
furtherance of the object of ensuring perfect control
over the issue of undesirable swarms. Nor can there
be any doubt that, with this end in view, several
very good hives have been devised, and are now on
the market. The principle involved, however, is
nothing more than the well-known axiom of
"giving timely room and ventilation;" and we
quite believe that equally good results will be
secured by those who do not care to invest iu a
non-swarming hive or appliance, by taking an
equal amount of trouble (iu the application of the
timely room and ventilation principle) as is required
in the working of a " non-swarmer." On the other
hand, we consider the newest type of non-swarm
iug hive to be advantageous, apart from the idea of
swarm-preventing, iu that the feature of getting
bees to work down into a box of shallow frames
placed below the brood-nest is an excellent one.
It saves the time so frequently wasted by bees
hanging idly outside the hive for days together for
sheer want of room inside. Moreover, the sub-
sequent removal of combs and bees — when the
latter have got fairly to work — to a position above
the brood-nest, does away with the frequent reluct-
ance of bees to pass through the excluder, and enter
surplus chambers.

1! if wing Combs in Brood-chambt r. - We strongly
advise the removal, every spring, of a couple of
outside combs — choosing the oldest or most faulty
oues, of course — substituting frames fitted with full
si i' i of foundation. Then after the bees have-
fairly started to build out the foundation, the frame
may be placed right in the centre of the brood-nest
without the slightest fear of chilled brood. By this
means we get two new combs built every season ;
aud by gradually renewing the whole, not only keep
the brood-combs in good condition, but avoid faulty
ones, and thus conduce to the comfort of handling
workable frames when manipulating our hives.

298

THE GARDENERS9 CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

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 signatxire will not be printed, but
kept as*a guarantee of good faith. The Editor docs 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 be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Uewspapers.—Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish tlie Editor to see.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, <£c.; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY,

TUESDAY,

May 13— Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

( Royal Horticultural Society's Com

V..- IflJ

WEDNESDAY, May 17

FRIDAY,

TUESDAY,

May 19

mittees.
National Rose Society's Committee

V Meeting

C Imperial Russian Gardeners' Asso-
•[ ciation : International Exhibition

V at St. Petersburg (10 days).

Manchester Royal Botanical So-
ciety's Whitsuntide Exhibition,
continuing until May 25.

Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

SALES.

May li

fEst;

&

I The

1

WEDNESDAY, May 17 <

tablished Orchids, at Froth e roe
Morris' Rooms.
Collection of Duplicate Or-
chids formed by F. Hardy, Esq.,
atTyntesfield, Ashton-on-Mersey,
by Protheroe & Morris (2 days).

Lilies, Gladioli, Carnations, Green-
house Plants, Palm Seeds, &t\,
at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

Unreserved Sale of Greenhouse and
Bedding Plants, by order of Mr.
Geo. Allin, at the Floral Hall,
Highbury Place, N., by Mr.
Herbert Win. Rendell.

FRIDAY,

mi . lt1 ( Imported and Established Orchids
\ at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswiek, London, for
the period April ISO to May 6, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet

1899.

Temperature
the Air.

At 9 a.m.

Bum. 30

N.N.E.

Mon. 1

S.S.W.

Tues. 2

N.W.

Wed. 3

N. E.

Tin', 4

N.E.

Fbi. 5

N.N.E.

Sat. (j

E.N.E.

Means...

...

46

490

i

W

deg.jdeg.
4(J'8 :.l' 4
II ii 55-5

.-i.-p-s .'.]■" "'

1.1 T, 14'K.M'l

ire. 41-7 51 !'

I'.'- 1

deg.
41-11
371
411-0
45-0
32-3
30-5

ln-li 41-9 54-0

4 1-2.r.7-4 32-6

44-2 55-n 37".i

Tempera-
ture of THE
SulL atDa.m.

deg.
D2-2
51-3

deg.
50-2
50-4

51-5 5i i- 1
52-260-6

40-9
48-3

48-4

Tot.

50-6

50-1
111- 1)

£3
aii

deg.
48-1
483
48-5
4S-7
48-9
4.V.I
48-9

40-x,
27 -6
11-2
41-8
24-5
22-3
23- 1

!:■ ""'ils.— The weather has lieen rather dull, with cold
winds, and very shaip frosts on the mornings on the 4th, 5th,
and 6th inst. No rain has fallen since the 2!>th ult.

Averaoe Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswiek. — 54'8\

Actual Temperatures : —

London.— May 10 (12 p.m.): Max. 00'; Min. 45'.
Provinces. — May 10 (0 p.m.): Max. G2% Bath; Min. 49\
Tynemonth,

We may shortly learn of some
AHortteultural further pl.actical attempt being

made to arouse public interest
in this object, as it is rumoured that the
Council of the Royal Horticultural Society will
shortly be urged to approach the Government
with a view to obtain the grant of a suitable
site for the erection of such a hall. No doubt,
could such a site be obtained, an immense deal
would be gained. It is not at all improbable
that, with a site furnished, the money could
be raised to enable the hall to be erected ; but
the getting of the site by purchase presents very
great difficulty, as land is so costly in London,
especially in any central position. Indeed, so
enormous is the value of land that it would,
were it a case of jmrchase, cost as much to pur-
chase a site as to erect a suitable building.
But it needs a good deal of confidence in the
generosity of a Government to assume that it
will grant what is proposed to be asked for.
The present Government has, no doubt, been
generous to the Royal Botanic Society in the
matter of leasing to them that splendid area
in the Regent's Park. It is scarcely too much
to say that, either from a scientific point of
view, or from that of a national industry,
the Royal Horticultural Society accomplishes
more in one year than the Royal Botanic
Society has done in the whole term of its
existence. What , the Royal Agricultural
Society is to agriculture the Royal Horticul-
tural Society is to horticulture, if, indeed, it be
not very much more. But Governments are
hard to move, especially if any appeal to their
generosity, even for most important national
purposes, has not some powerful influences
behind it, or if no political object is to be
gained. No doubt a government may find itself
justified in sheltering itself behind a refusal,
on the ground that, granting so great a favour
to one society would but entail similar appli-
cations from many other bodies. In this con-
nection it may be urged that several scientific
societies are already housed in one building by
the favour of the Government. The Royal
Society, the Chemical Society, the Linnean
Society, the Society of Antiquaries, the Royal
Academy, all find quarters in Burlington House ;
whilst, tho University of London occupies a site
in immediate proximity, a site that may be
vacated if the University should be transferred
to the Imperial Institute.

A horticultural hall, if erected, could hardly
be continuously employed for horticultural
purposes, and as a huge area for exhibition,
there is good reason to assume that such a
building would be- available fur similar purposes
by other, and to some extent, cognate bodies.
For all ordinary purposes, even the Royal Hor-
ticultural Society could not well utilise a huge
hall more frequently than once a fortnight, and
as ample light is indispensable for most shows,
and for garden products notably, the roof must
be largely of glass. It is evident, therefore,
that the basement would have to consist oT a
series of offices with a lofty, well lighted hall
above. That several great scientific or indus-
trial societies could thus be housed under one
roof is evident.

It is pleaded that for the purposes of the
Royal Horticultural Society's meetings, of which
there are some twenty- four now held during
the year, the present Drill Hall is not large
enough. That is sometimes, but not always,
true. Still, we may not forget that, the securing
of the Drill Hall when South Kensington was
evacuated was a great gain, and the society has
under its roof developed wonderfully. But it

must also be remembered that for London the
Drill Hall is a large building, and except
Olympia, the Crystal and Alexandra Palaces,
or the Agricultural Hall, it would be very
difficult to find a building in the metropolis
that would give more available space. If.
therefore, the present Drill Hall be admitted
to be occasionally too small, a very large site
wiiuld be needful to enable such hall as seems
desired to be provided. That could hardly
be done in London ; but, of course, it might
be possible to secure a building, giving halls
one above the other, and in that way pro-
viding the needful area. Still, that is not what
the advocates for more room seem to desire.
If the proposed appeal be made to the Govern-
ment, there is just a possibility of success, whilst
the chances of refusal are very much greater, in
Spite of the fact that tho Royal Horticultural
Society is probably the most important body of
its kind in relation to horticulture in the whole
wi irld.

It has often been said that the Westminster
Aquarium occupies one of the finest sites in the
kingdom, yet it is but a music-hall on a large
scale. True, its area is occasionally employed
for exhibitions, but the surroundings render its
utilisation for such meetings as those of the
Royal Horticultural Society impossible. St.
Stephen's Hall is at present not largely used.
It is roomy, but needs a materially lighter roof.
Its position is first rate, and had it the aid of a
powerful light, and if it were anywhere else but
where it is, it would make a capital hall for the
purposes of the Royal Horticultural Society.
At present it stands in a great position, and is
unworthily occupied. Probably it is larger
than the Drill Hall, but that is uncertain. If
not larger, no gain would attach to removing to
it. However, a pretty problem is proposed to
be considered, but the solution is not to be
readily found.

Royal Horticultural Society.— At the

next meeting of the Committocs of this Society to
be held on Tuesday, May 10, a lecture on some
of the plants exhibited will be giveu at 3 o'Clock,
by the Rev. Prof. G, HENMLOW.

National Rose Society. — The Rev. H.
Honvwoiiii D'O-MBK.viN aud Mr. Edward Mawlev,
hon. secretaries, desire us to state that a meetiug
of the General Purposes Committee will he held
at the Piooius of the Horticultural Club, Hotel
Windsor, Victoria Street, Westminster, on Tuesday,
the Kith inst., at ."{ p.m., for business purposes.

Horticultural Club.— The usual monthly
diuuer and conversazione will take place on Tues-
day, May 10, at 6 P. m. The subject for discussion
will be "The Method of Preserving Vegetables by
Evaporation, as Carried Out at Rayne in Essex," to
be opened by Mr. R. Gofton Saljiom..

The Surveyors' Institution.— The Insti-
tution will be closed from May 10 to May '2'< (both
inclusive) to facilitate the removal to the society's
new house, P2, Great George Street, Westminster,
to which all communications should bo addressed
on and after May 'J4. — The next ordinary general
meeting will be held ou Monday, May lo, 1899,
when a paper will be read by Mr. R. M. D.
Sanders (Fellow), cutitled "Laud Purchase in
Ireland." The chair will be taken at S o'clock.

The Hybridisation Conference. — fudging

from what we hear, this is likely to be an important
affair. Several of the leading experimentalists
from the United States, as well as from the conti-
nent, have intimated their intention of being pre-
sent, and others who are not able to come will

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

299

300

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

send papers or illustrative specimens. We bear of
a representative from the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture, of Messrs. De la Devansaye
(Anthuriums), Meehan, Philadelphia; Huco de
Vries, Amsterdam ; Bailey, of Cornell Univer-
sity ; FoCKE, BUREANK, MAX LeICHTLIX, DUVAL

(Bromeliads), Marliac, Maron, Truffaut, Le-
moine, Vilmokin, and of other continental raisers
as likely either to be present or to send communi-
cations ; whilst our own seedling-raisers will doubt-
less be present in force. We expect a gathering of
scientific horticulturists and experimenters the
like of which has not been seen in this country
since the ever memorable " '66." Arrangements
are in progress to accord our foreign visitors a
cordial reception.

Cheap Conveyance of Country Produce.
— Here are some additional particulars relating to
the system to be adopted by the South Eastern
and London, Chatham & Dover Railway Companies,
of which we gave an announcement in our last issue.
The conditions are: — (1) The produce shall bo
packed in the boxes which are on sale at the dif-
ferent stations, or similar oues ; (2) the boxes shall
be secured by nails only ; (3) the produce shall be
conveyed at owner's risk, and the carriage prepaid,
the prepayment being made by parcels stamps on
sale at the stations ; and (4) no box shall be of
greater weight than 60 lb. Provided that these
conditions are fulfilled the produce will be conveyed
at a reduced charge of 4t/. for every 20 lb., and Id.
additional for every 5 lb., or part thereof, up to
60 lb. (including delivery within the usual limits),
from all stations (except those within 20 miles or
Charing Cross) to Birchington, Broadstairs, Deal
and Walmer, Dover, Folkestone, Hastings and
St. Leonards, Heme Bay, Hythe, Littlestone,
Margate, Ramsgate, Sandgate, Westgate - on -
Sea, and Whitstable, and also from all Soutk-
Eastern and Chatham & Dover statious to
London and stations in the companies' suburban
district. The boxes, which are intended for use
once only, so as to avoid the expense of conveyance
of small returned empties, are to be sold at the
stations at prices rangiug from l|d. to 5d. The
adoption of this system should be of great advan-
tage to cultivators of fruit in the south-eastern
counties, and to consumers resident in London and
the places mentioned.

National Footpath Association. — A

general meeting of this Society was held on Monday
evening, the 8th inst., at the Holborn Restaurant,
to consider the question of the amalgamation of the
Society with the Commons Preservation Society.
Lord Ribblesdale, the President, occupied the
chair. Mr. J. F. Torr having read the report of
the acting secretary on the business transacted
during the last six months, the Chairman said, that
when, six months ago, the secretary died, proposals
were made by representatives of the Commons Pre-
servation Society, which had the same interest as
themselves, for the amalgamation of the two societies.
A sub-committee which was appointed to consider
the question had gone fully into the delicate ques-
tion of financial adjustment, and had reported
unanimously in favour of amalgamation. He moved
that the proposals be accepted. The motion was
seconded by Sir John Brunner, MP. , and after
discussion the proposal was agreed to.

Holly "Golden King." — We learn from
Messrs. Little & Bai.lantyne, Carlisle, that this
new variety of Holly, which received an Award of
Merit at the last Temple Show of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, has obtained a First-class Silver
Medal at the Ghent show — a fact we were unable
to ascertain at the time. It is a distinct variety,
and the yellow variegation is very blight.

Winter-flowering Trop/eolum.— When at
Cambridge recently we noticed in the University
Botanic Gardens a very valuable winter-flowering
Tropa'olum, that furnished a rafter iu one of the
span-roofed houses there, and gave a magnificent

blaze of bloom. Mr. Lynch, who has won so much
esteem at Cambridge, said he had some difficulty
in obtaining a variety to his liking until Mr. Blair,
of Trentham gardens, furnished him with this one,
which he now calls "Blair's Beauty of Trentham."
The flowers are of moderate size, intense colour,
aud have a long spur. The leaves are very small.

CAREX PANICULATA.— In the semi-wild portion
of the grounds at the Botanic Gardens, Cam-
bridge, is a specimen of this interesting plant that
well illustrates its peculiar root-growth. The
specimen has an upright stem 3 feet high, which
consists of closely - packed roots. That this is
not a proper stem only becomes apparent after
close observation, as the drooping foliage screeus
the lower portion of the plant from view.

Mr. B. Hartland's New Narcissus— The

pretty variety of Narcissus figured by us in our
last issue, p. 2S3, has been distinguished by the
name Parmenia by its raiser.

Metropolitan Open Spaces.— There is
some prospect of Lambeth Palace Gardens being
added to those uow under the care of the London
County Council — at least, permission has been
given for volunteers to drill there, with a hint at
the possibility of a wider use. What a boon this
would be for the neighbourhood ! only the inha-
bitants thereof can form an adequate idea. We know
what is said to attend on a healthy body ; and this
concession on the part of a great ecclesiastical
authority would show the existence of a healthy
mind. The London County Council have acquired
the famous Elizabethan mausion and park at
Bromley, which will as soon as possible be placed
at the service of the community. We understand
that some 10] acres in extent have been secured in
what is called Upper Sydenham, to be opened in the
course of the ensuing summer as a recreation-
ground, In Deptford a children's gymnasium has
been opened, and another at Cable Street, Shad well.
Again, between Wandsworth and Putney, on the
river banks, 19if acres of land has been secured,
aud will be opened as Wandsworth Park, sonic
nine months hence. An area of about three-
quarters of au acre has been formed out of
what was the forecourt of Aske's School, iu
Pitfield Street, near Shoreditch Church ; and there
is another small plot in course of transformation iu
Ivy Street, not far from the latter. A small
pleasure-ground is now being arranged at Bromley -
by-Bow. Another public garden is that known as
Northbrook Park, uow in the hands of the County
Council. There are 17 acres of grass-laud at Lea,
given by Lord NORTHBROOK. The Council, in eon-
junction with the vestry of the parish of Lea, have
agreed to purchase Manor Park, 9^ acres, and the
old Manor House. Lord NoRTHBROOK's birthplace.
All this indicates progress in a healthy direction.

Mr. Geo. SAVAGE, whose death is recorded
in the American journals, was one of the most
distinguished Orchid cultivators in the United
States. Deceased was born in Warwickshire,
England, fifty four years ago, and after employ-
ment for a time in several private establishments
here, emigrated to America, and served iu Mr.
Geo. Such's establishment at South Amboy, New
Jersey, and other nurseries. But it is mainly in
connection with the collection of Orchids. belonging
to the late W. S. Kimball, of Rochester, N.Y.,
that deceased was best known on that side of
the Atlantic. Under Mr. Kimball, he formed a
collection second to none in the States, aud pro-
duced a number of hybrids. His name is com-
memorated in Cypripedium Savageanum.

The Florists' Mutual Fire Insurance

ASSOCIATION, that had been established iu the
United States of America, has just dissolved.
Much regret is expressed in the American journals ;
the florists and horticultural trade generally are
blamed for the disinterestedness and apathy they
have shown in the matter, aud they are warned

that many will live to regret their inaction. Quite
contrary experieuee has been our own Nursery-
men's, &c., Hailstorm Insurance Corporation,
which appears to have received very satisfactory
support indeed.

Vegetable Pathology.— M. G. Staes, of the

University of Ghent, has recently published an
interesting article on the science — phytopathology.
The KruudkundigGenootschys Dodom-ea, at Ghent,
has done most to familiarise us with the new
science. In fact, this society has for some
time made a study of phytopathology ; but only
since the end of 1892 has publicity been given to
the fact that the society on application was pre-
pared to furnish, gratis, information on any subject
relative to the diseases of plants. A comparatively
large number of applications has beeu received —
over a hundred since 1S94. It has, further, beeu
arranged that at Ghent, Alost, and Turnhout,
where public instruction is giveu, a certain number
of lessons relative to plant diseases shall be in-
cluded. In 1891 there was a public course devoted
to the diseases of plants. M. G. Staes has been
entrusted with the organisation of these lessons.
In 1895 the Societe Dodouaa started, in connec-
tion with the Phytopathologisch Laboratorium at
Amsterdam, a journal Tijdschrift over Plantt n-
ziekten (Journal of Plant Diseases), under the
editorship of Professor Rit/.ema Bos aud M. G.
Staes. This publication is iu its fifth year ; it is
illustrated, aud issues plates. At the Agricultural
Institute at Gembloux, phytopathology forms part
of the course of instruction ; but at the State
horticultural and agricultural schools the study of
injurious insects and of cryptogamie diseases is
made of less importance.

Lectures on the Evolution of Plants.—
Prof. D. H. Campbell has published through Mac-
millan & Co. a series of lectures delivered by him
at the Li'laud Stamford Junior University. Begin-
ning with the simplest forms of life, the author
passes in review the various groups of plants.
Prof. CAMPBELL considers the Yolvociueie to repre-
sent more nearly thau any existing forms the
ancestral type of all the higher green plants.
From it have arisen a number of independent lines
of development resulting iu very divergeut types
of structure. The first step is the loss of motility
in the vegetative cells. Then conic the beginnings
of a distinction between vegetative and reproduc-
tive cells, and the arrangement of cells in threads
or thalli. The varying arrangements met with
among Algal are summarised, the red aud brown
Alga; being considered to represent the highest
expression of their respective lines of development.
The higher green plants arc considered to have
originated from the simple fresh-water green Alga",
and so we pass from Mosses and Liverworts to
Ferns, Conifers, Cycads, and flowering plants.
Plants, in fact, " have succeeded in adapting them-
selves to almost every environment. From the opt u
oceau to arid deserts and lofty mountain tops, some
plants have succeeded in establishing themselves,
and from the equator to the poles no district is
completely wanting in some types of vegetable
life." These are very interesting matters for
speculation, and their discussion cannot fail to elicit
further information and to correct error.

A Monument to the late Baron von
H0GEL. — A flower show, under the patronage of the
Princess Metternicii, was held in Hietzing, near
Vienna, on Thursday, May 11, which was instituted
by the gardeners and garden-amateurs of this pretty
suburb of the Austrian metropolis, for the purpose of
obtaiuiug funds wherewith to erect a monument to
the memory of the renowned traveller, discoverer,
and horticulturist, the late Freiiiekr Kaul Alia
anuer VON Hicel. One of the main ideas of the
exhibition was to exhibit most of the plants where-
with Hugel enriched European gardens, a collec-
tion of which has been carefully cultivated in the
imperial gardens at Selionbrunn, and in thoso of

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

301

Graf Harkacii, .it Bruck, on the Leitlia. The
amateur's and gardener's club were so fortunate as
to obtain, for the site of their show, the glasshouses
and garden in which, in the forties, the flower-
shows of K. A. von Hugel took place, and which
had such great attractions for the Viennese. This
garden passed on Hugel's removal to Florence in
1849 into the possession of Prince Wkede, and
later into that of the Duke of Cumberland. This
possessor soon sold it, and so it came into the
possession of Dr. Ehrenfeld, who, in the friend-
liest manner, allowed the show to be held therein.

Apples from the Antipodes.— The inland
traffic manager of the Orient line of lloyal Mail
steamships informs us that blie Ophir is now on
her way from Hobart, &c, to Tilbury Docks, with
24,000 cases of Apples.

Gardening not Healthy.— Gardening is
generally considered one of the healthiest of occu-
pations, but the German ( rardeners' Association has
issued a warning to those who intend entering the
industry. They cite the fact that during the years
1887 to 1S97, of the '291 members of the Association
who died in Germany, not fewer than 142 suc-
cumbed to consumption and other affections of the
lungs.

De Langhe's Cyclamen papilio at Ant-
werp.— The progress made with this extraordinary
strain of Cyclamen during the last year is very
great ; the flowers which M. de LiANGKE showed at
the Drill Hall last year had more or less of a
drooping habit, which English florists object to,
but now the blooms are much more upright, and
the whole habit of the plants has improved.
Nothing could possibly have been liner than the
group shown at the Antwerp exhibition, and he
deservedly received a largo Cold Medal, and for
the cut flowers a Silver-gilt Medal.

STOCK-TAKING: APRIL. -This month we have
again to note a falling-oil' in the value of imports
to the amount of £889,694 — that is to say, the
imports for last month amounted to £39,357,000,
against £40,246,716 for the same period last year.
The items of decrease are : — Animals, living, for
food, £18,627; duty-free food, 61,284,380 ; Tobacco,
£30,255; chemicals. &e., €14,777; raw materials
for textiles, £1,276,812; and Parcel Post, £1,062.
Barley fell off £328,387 ; Wheat gave way £626,515 ;
and Oats record a drop of £144,252. The import
of cotton fell away by some SG3,GtJS cwt. (value
61,520,288); the reduction in Jute is X47,18(i.
Wool increased its value by .637,487. The increase
is in oils, metals, caoutchouc, wood and timber,
tallow, manures, &c. It may be noted that we
imported Clover and grass-seeds to the value of
652,282; Flax or Linseed, i'203,S7S ; Kape-seed,
£16,873. Of paper-making materials, Esparto and
other vegetable fibres, mounted up £77,035 ; pulp of
wood, chemical and mechanical, £140,824 ; wood
and timber are valued at £376,275, against
£388,425 in April, 1898. The following are our
usual quotations from the summary table for the
past month : —

Imports.

1S9S.

1899.

Difference.

£

£

£

Total value

40,246,716
14,2(S2,

39,357,022
12,977,920

—889,094

(A.) Articles of food
and drink — duty
free

—1,284,380

(1! ) Articles of food
& drink— dutiable

1,899,372

1,951,532

+52,160

Raw materials for
textile manufac-
tures

7,0111,. 9

C,333,S83

—1,276,812

Raw materials for
sundry industries
and manufactures

3,441,017

3,934,1100

+493,939

(A.) Miscellaneous
articles

1,174,17:"

1,323,403

+149.2SS

(B.) Parcel Post ...

'.".1,117

9S.055

—1,002

authorities that they might with advantage to both
producer and consumer gather more ample statistics.
A lot of Spanish Asparagus has made its way to
the markets, lacking mention of place of origin.

Imports.

1S98.

1899.

Difference.

Fruits, raw : —

Apples ...

.. bush.

107,121

148,878

—ls/243

Cherries...

•• „

21

+ 24

Grapes ...

>,

2,259

1,020

—033

Lemons ...

■ • ,,

135,486

201,320

+ 05,840

Oranges ...

•• ,,

589,337

l,o2:i,171

+ 433,834

Pears

,,

1,355

957

—398

Plums ...

,,

1

—1

Unenii al ■!

• ,i

03,700

B6,029

-1 22,269

Onions

i,

013,633

639,183

+ 25,550

Potatos ...

. cwt.

(,186,653

514.74S

—671,905

Vegetables', raw,

unenu-

tnerated ...

. value

£1 11,952

£149,307

+ £17,110

We now make room for the figures connected with
fruits, roots, and vegetables, suggesting to the

The value of imports for the past four months is
put at £157,551,443; and this compared with
£159,317,623 for April last year, shows a decrease
of £1,760,180. Coming now to —

Exports,
we have to record an increase of £1,901,43.5, that is
to say, in April last year the total was £17,490,0] I,
the figure for last month was just £19,457,446.
Coals, &e., figured largely in the increase in raw
material exported, as does also wool ; yarns and
textile fabrics weDt up by £02o,539 ; new ships
were exported to the value of £492,305; metals,
and sundry manufactures therefrom, increased by
£193, .'jo] ; machinery and mill work advanced by
£11,288; articles of food and drink increased in
export and value by £54,370. By the way, an
inquirer into the export of confectionery, &c,
states that he found those wore placed to the credit
of pickles in the records of the Board of Trade '.
The Canadian preferential tariff does not appear to
be so much appreciated as it might be, so says the
Finance Minister of the Dominion ; exports to that
part of the world, however, are gradually swelling
in volume : of the four months just ended we
note the exports have achieved £81,511,487, against
£75,203,129 for the same period last year — or
a gain of 66,308,358. This looks very well indeed,
aud with a clearer political outlook all rouud even
better results may with safety be anticipated.

The Fifty Best Orchids at the Ghent
Show. — M. A. A. Peeteks, nurseryman, 02,
Cbuussee de Forest, Ghent, writes : "Iain happy
to inform you that the fifty best Orchids that were
exhibited at Mont St. Amaud belong to me."

Reduction of Working-hours in Nur-
series.— A valued boon has been conferred on
their employes by the nurserymen in the Woking
district, in the reduction of the hours of labour on
Saturdays. Through the cordial co-operation of
the heads of the various establishments, the work-
ing hours on that day have been reduceed one and
a half hours, viz., from 5.30 to 4 p.m. This con-
cession by the nurserymen will do much to foster a
frieudly feeling on the part of their men, aud is an
example which might be copied with advantage by
other establishments throughout the country.

THE NIGHTINGALE is not altogether unknown
to Loudon suburban districts. On Wednesday
evening last, at 11 P.M., we had the pleasure to
hear this delightful bird singing beautifully at the
extreme corner of Wimbledon Common, adjoining
Putney Hill, and scarcely a mile from the High
Street. The bird was resting in a Birch tree not
many yards from a lighted street-lamp.

Publications Received.— Boses and /.-.,- culture,

by William Paul (Simpkin, Marshall, Hamilton. Kent & Co.,
London). When we say that this is the ninth edition (tenth
thousand) of this shilling illustrated handbook, we have suffi-
ciently set forth its use and value. — AgriculturalJournal of

"" r"r' "/<: ' Hope, March 30. This contains, among other

articles, a good paper by Mr. Thos. Sims, on the Elementary

Principles of Sylviculture, or Woodcraft.— Proceedings of the
Agri-Horticultural Society of Madras, October-December, 18*98,

—Annual R.p,„t /,„■ ]k:is nj the ltol,<nic Gardens, Straits Settle-
ments, by II. N. Ridley, director. This includes some notes
by Mr. C. Curtis on .1 Botanical Tour in Perak.— The Fern
Bulletin, Vol. VII., No. 2, April (quarterly).— Societi Natimudi
oVHortlcuUuredi France, I.iste generate des members de la
Societe. Arretee au April 1, 1S99 (Paris).

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Ciknkowskva Kirki. — An East African Scitamineous
plant allied to Kseinpferia, and not far from Ginger (Zingiber).

It bears large violet dowers with a yellow centre. Revm
Horticole, April 1.

Diervilla Waonerix.— A cross between D. ilurida and
11. Middendorfflana, Qartenflara, t. 1461.

Helen 11 11 aiti msmi.k sui-mm-M, Garden, April 1.

Peas Doyenne d'Alencon, Bulletin a" Arboriculture, 4c,
April. — An early variety, of excellent quality.

Rhododendron diversitolicmx. — Said to be a hybrid
derived from I!, arboreum. Some of the leaves are linear,
others oblong, and the numerous rose-coloured Bowers
are in terminal clusters. Wiener llluslrirti GartenrZeitxma
April.

Bolidaoo kexobaus, Alton, Heehaw! Monthly, April.

HIPPEASTRUMS (AMARYLLIS) AT
WESTONBIRT.

For many years the late Mr. Holford took great
interest in the cultivation of Hippeastrums, and half
a century ago he purchased the following species :
— aulicum, reticulatum, pssitacinum, solandri-
florum, stylosum, .Tohnsoni, and some of the best
hybrids from the noted collection of the late Mr.
Sweet, of Clifton, Bristol. By crossing and inter-
crossing these, some pretty hybrids were obtained,
but the constitution of most of them became weak,
especially those having high-coloured flowers, and
it soon became needful to employ a more robust
species in order to strengthen the constitution of
the strain. Consequently, in 1S70, H. pardinum
was purchased. The flowers of this species
are 0 inches in diameter, creamy - white in
colour dotted over with crimson, aud having scarcely
any tube. This species was employed as a male
parent, which improved both the constitution and .
also the form of the Sowers. In 1879, a variety
named William Pitt was added to the collection ;
the Howers of this wore small, of a shade of scarlet,
with a broad white stripe up the centre of the
segments. This variety when crossed with the
best of the seedlings, gave added brilliancy of colour
to the larger flower. A species named Leopoldi was
next purchased from Messrs. Veitch& Sons, Chelsea,
aud this, when crossed with other varieties, gave a
roundness of form to the segments, but the first
crosses from thos,. did not possess the enduring pro
perty of the flowers of the older varieties, and until
further and distinct crosses were made, good consti-
tution and substauce, and colour in the flowers were
not obtained. In 1SS0 H. Empress of India was
purchased, this tiue-constitutioned plant proving an
excellent parent, and imparting vigour to our best
seedlings. Out of the thousands of seedlings raised,
only those of perfect form, good substance, and
pleasing colours are retained and named ; aud these
at the present time number about 300, and includes
flowers of a variety of shades of colour and mark-
ings. The shades of crimson, scarlet, and the white
grounds, flowers flaked and veined with scarlet,
rose, purple, aud vermilion, are of perfect shape
and good size, but the white form raised some years
ago has not in its numerous seedlings improved in
either of these points. Seedliugs are raised which
flower in three years, the seeds being sown as
soon as they are ripe (which is generally during
the month of May), in pans or boxes of light
sandy soil, placing these in a brisk moist heat
to germinate. As soon as the bulblets are
formed they are potted in 3 - inch pots, three
plants in each, kept growing in a gentle heat
without a check, and not drying them otf till
they become large enough to occupy 6-ineh pots.
The compost used for their final potting consists of
three parts fibrous loam, one part leaf-mould, some
silver-sand and charcoal to keep it porous ; and in
this they aro first flowered and proved. After
flowering, they are grown on till they have com-

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

pleted the two centre leaves, then gradually dried
off at the roots, and exposed to the full sun-
shine. This is found to be beneficial to the
bulbs, and they flower strongly the next season.
They are wintered in a dry, airy position, with-
holding water until the time of starting. The
house illustrated (rig. 108) is 5(i feet long, and
•24 feet wide, having a wide central pit, and two
narrow side-pits, which contains about 2000 bulbs in
pots plunged in the beds. This house was erected
by Captain Holford for the special purpose of
growing Hippeastrums, and he takes the greatest
interest both in the selection of the parent-flowers in
crossing, and the special cultivation of the plants.

FLOWERS on MIDSUMMER SHOOTS
OP THE APPLE AND PEACH.

These are not uncommon, but when they do occur,
they are generally double-flowered by multiplica-
tion of petals, or by the substitution of petals for
stamens. Moreover, tho Apple proper is not
formed. A similar state of things occurred in the
Peach of which we now give an illustration (fig.
109). It was formed at the end of a young shoot,
its live sepals were replaced by leaves, the petals
were increased in number, but the true carpels
were not present. The specimen was kindly sent
to us by Mr. Balderson, of Hemel Hempstead.

PENCILS AND OF WHAT THEY
ARE MADE.

There are few more useful articles in the world
than a blacklead-pencil. While most other things
have their seasons of prosperity or usefulness,
a blacklead-pencil is always with us. Yet there
are times, we are informed, by those who ought
to know, namely, the makers, when there are
greater demands for these useful little articles
than at others. For instance, at the time of a
general election, the homely peucil is fulfilling a
great work, aud the destiny of the country, it may
be, is dependent upon its use in the ballot-boxes.
But there are other seasons also when pencils of a
different character are much in demand — we mean
at the season from which we have now emerged,
when no ball-room or da»ce programme is complete
without its daintily-finished appeudage, the peucil.

Under these circumstances, the history of the
birth and growth of a blacklead-pencil, as seen by
me at Messrs. E. Wolff & Sons, Falcon Pencil
Works at Battersea, may be of some interest, more
especially as wood, though perhaps not the primary
material in its composition, is by no means an
unimportant factor. But there are woods aud
woods used in pencil-making ; and though of
late years mauy new woods have been
tried, the so-called Pencil-Cedar still maintains
its superiority over all others, and is always used
for pencils of the best quality. The reason for this
is obvious, for anyone who knows anything of the
nature of woods will at once own that no other
wood equals it in the ease with which it can be
cut, as well as in its straight grain aud absence of
knots. It is the Juuiperus virginiaua of Linnaeus,
and is the most widely distributed of North
American Conifertfi, being found, according to
Prof. Sargent, in Southern New Brunswick, shores
of Georgian Bay, Northern Michigan, Northern
Wisconsin, aud Minnesota, South, to Cape Malabar
and Tampa Bay, Florida, and the Valley of the
Colorado River, Texas, West to Eastern Nebraska,
Kansas, and the Indian territory to about the
100th parallel of west longitude ; in the Pacific
region, Rocky Mountains of Colorado to Vancou-
ver's Island, British Columbia, not extending to
Western Texas, California or Oregon ; in Utah,
Nevada, aud Arizona rare aud local. The tree
grows to a height of about HO feet, and to a
diameter of about 3£ feet. Iu America the wood
has a variety of uses, such as the construction of
posts, sills, railway ties, and for cabinet-making,
and it is said to be durable underground.

It is tho wood of this tree, then, that is always
used for the best pencils, and on my visit to the

works before-mentioned, I saw under shelter of a
roof in the yard, a large quantity of huge logs,
some perfectly sound, while others showed knots
and shakes, and others again a large proportion
of decay, the work of the spawn of a fungus.
These logs have to be very carefully overhauled,
and the close eveu-grained wood is alone selected
for pencil-making. Pencil Cedar comes into Eng-
land in very large quantities, always in the form
of logs, and is shipped mostly from Florida.

[Juniperus virginiaua, the so-called Bed Cedar,
is not only widely distributed, but it runs into
numerous varieties, some of which are in cultivation.
Some of these varieties are thought sufficiently
distinct to be counted as species. Professor Sargent,
we believe, considers the Florida form to be worthy
of a specific name. We may here remark that a
specimen sent us lately from Florida by Mr. Thom-
son seems to be identical with the form known in
gardens as J. Schotti. The Bermuda Cedar is
closely allied to the Juniperus virginiaua, but
differs from it. It might be utilised for " Cedar "
pencil-making. The Jamaica form, specimens of

course, spoil the pencil, and the substance has to
be specially prepared for the different grades of
hard and soft leads. When it is sufficiently pre-
pared it is placed in a kind of cylinder, with a small
opening at the bottom of the diameter of the lead
required for the pencil, either round or square.
The cylinder is attached to a powerful machine,
aud an enormous pressure is brought to bear upon
the contents, so that the lead in its plastic state is
squeezed through the aperture at the bottom
of the cylinder, and comes out in the form of a
long black cord — more, indeed, like a strip of
india-rubber than anything else. It is taken by
girls, who sit at tables immediately contiguous
to the machine, aud laid in grooves on a thin plate,
each strip being cut off of uniform length with a
knife. These strips are then removed to a kind of
oven, aud submitted to a procees of drying or
baking, until they become hard ; they are then
ready to be placed in their wooden cases, which
are prepared by first planiug the wood to an
uniform thickness — namely, half the thickness of
the pencil, sufficieutly wide to cut six pencils, and

Fit;. 109.— PEACH BLOSSOM OS SCMMEK SHOUT; SEPALS LEAFY
PETALS AND STAMENS NUMEROUS J PISTIL LBSEXT.

which were sent to us by Mr. Fawcett, are so like
J. virginiaua that we should assign them to that
Bpecies. We presume the wood of the Jamaica
tree would be equally serviceable ; in any case, it
is worth trying to ascertain whether another minor
industry might not be added in Bermuda, Jamaica,
aud other islands iu the West Iudies. Ed.]

Before proceeding to the inside of the factory, I
noticed in the same yard, where the timber was
stacked, a number of casks or hogsheads, which
were tilled with plumbago, or as it is commonly
called, black lead. This was in a crude form, just
as it comes from the mines, and as it is imported
from Spain, India, Mexico, aud Ceylon. Besides
this, there was a large stock of "pure Cumberland
lead," which I was informed was purchased many
years ago by the firm, aud is very highly prized by
them, as it produces the best pencils that can be
made. A cask of plumbago is like so much coal-dust,
mixed with lumps of irregular sizes. Passing into
the factory we find a powerful crushing machine,
into which the plumbago is put and crushed, or
ground to an impalpable powder. It is next
made into a thick paste under heavy rollers, aud
if it were brown instead of black it might readily
be mistaken for chocolate paste. Very great care
and expert knowledge is required in preparing this
paste ; the least coarseness or grittiness would, of

of the length required, for pencils vary both in
length and thickness. Six grooves are then cut
longitudinally and simultaneously by a machine,
either half round aud of the depth aud diameter
to tit the lead, or square, according as the
pencil is to have a round or a square lead. The
dried or baked leads are next taken, six at a time,
aud dexterously laid in the grooves made in the
wood, aud when so placed by one set of girls, are
passed on to others who take a correspondingly
grooved piece of wood, aud brushing each piece
over with glue, bring the surfaces together. A
number arc then placed iu a small screw-press and
submitted to very heavy pressure. So neatly is this
joint effected, that it is often difficult to find it in
a finished pencil. When the glue is set and quite
hard, they are removed to a machine which ploughs
the wood out between the leads, cutting it half-way
through ; by turning it over and repeating the
operation on the other side, the wood is cut quite
through, and the six pencils all fall out in their
cylindrical forms. All this is done with wonderful
accuracy and rapidity. The pencils are next rubbed
down with glass-paper to remove any roughness,
and to give them a perfectly smooth surface.
Though this may be the finishing touch of many
pencils, a large proportion of them are now
polished or stained in various colours, and then

May 13, 1899,]

THE GAB DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

303

polished. Tbis is call doue by machinery, the
pencils being really French-polished, and not var-
nished. The final touches consist of cutting off
the ends, pointing, and stamping the maker's name.

At the time of my visit, a large number of girls
Were employed in making the dainty little white
pencils for ball programmes. Some were fixing the
enamel-like coating over the slender Cedar-wood ;
others were fixing the ivory or bone tops, and
others again were attaching the white silken cords
and tassels.

As some indication of the exteut of the pencil
manufacture, I may say that the stock of " leads "
stored away in boxes at the factory at the time of
my visit, and ready to be placed in their wooden
receptacles, was estimated at many hundred
thousand gross.

The pencil manufacture was at one time carried

for ease in cutting, freedom from cracking or warp-
ing, or adaptability for fiui^h. John I!. Jackson,
Museums, Royal Gardens, Kew.

LILIUM AURATUM IN SCOTLAND.

In the mouths of August and September last
year, visitors to the watering places on the shores
of the Firth of Clyde flocked in large numbers
to see a grand example of the golden-rayed Lily
of Japan, Lilium auratum, growing in the small
garden in front of Darroch-dhu Cottage, Dunoon, the
residence of Mr. James McGibbon, to whom we are
indebted for the accompanying illustration from a
photo (fig. 110), showing the stately proportions of
the handsome specimen. The figures in the photo-
graph, among whom Mr. McGibbon is seen on the

probably unprecedented on a plant grown in the
open air in Scotland. The stems ranged from 5 to
7 feet in height, and the thickest girthed 3J inches
at the base, and bore forty-three perfect blooms.
One malformed Hat stem carried as many as sixty-
one flowers, all fully developed, but smaller than
the others, and made a very pretty show while in
bloom. Other stems bore from ten to twenty or
thirty flowers, and the gay show they made can be
easily seen in the illustration, although it cannot
convey to the senses any of the rich odour dis-
persed around in the early morning and at dew ey
eve. Travellers who had seen the golden-rayed Lily
growing in Japan, India, California, and Australia,
as well as in European gardeus, all declared tiny
had never seen such a grandly-developed plant, and
visitors to the Clyde during the coming autumn
would do well to keep it in mind. Scolus,

Fig. 110. — Lii.ir.M auratum in scotlasd.

on at Keswick, in Cumberland ; but I am assured
that at the present time little is done there, but
that the principal factories are in the neighbour-
hood of London, and that which I had the privi-
lege of visiting is the largest. Though pencils
are made on a large scale in Bavaria and other
places on the continent, it is satisfactory to know
that those of English make are of the best quality
in the market.

An interesting branch of the pencil manufacture
is, that the resulting chips and shavings of the
Cedar are not absolutely waste products. The
wood, as is well known, contains a quantity of very
fragrant oil, ami the cuttings arc all very carefully
collected, and sold to the chemists and perfumers
for distillation.

Though, as I have before said, other woods than
that of the Pencil Cedar have been,- aud are still,
sometimes used, such as Lime (Tilia europea), and
American Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), yet no
wood equals that of Juniperus virginiana, either

light, give a good idea of the size and stature of the
plant.

The history of the specimen given to us by Mr.
McGibbon is rather interesting, although simple
enough. He bought the original bulb, in a bag
containing a dozeu, in Messrs. Hutchison & Dixon's
Public Sale Rooms, Glasgow, six years ago, the
cost being 3s. the lot, or 3d. the bulb. This par-
ticular bulb he planted soon afterwards in his
garden at Dunoon, where it has grown and thriven
ever since without more than a slight protection
from severe frost in the winter.

In 1897, it sent up sixteen stems, which bore
'292 blooms, aud drew a considerable amount of
attraction from visitors to the pretty watering-
place. Last year it produced twenty stems, carry-
ing the enormous number of 42S fully-developed
flowers ; aud another stem, which bore twenty-five
perfect Hower-buds, got injured near the base, and
had to be removed, which, had it come to maturity,
would have given a total of 453 flowers — a number

Home Correspondence.

GARDEN PESTS. — I received from Mr. Geo.
Lamb, of the University Botanic Garden, Cam-
bridge, a number of Tulips which were supposed to
be suffering from growing in the shade of an Apple-
tree. The bulbs were badly decayed, and were
found on examination to be suffering from the
attacks of five different pests, any oue of which
would have been sufficient in itself to cause the
blight. These pests were: 1, Julus pulchellus, a
pretty but very destructive millipede, known to
attack Celery, Cabbages, Wheat, aud almost every
kind of cultivated plant. 2, Acarus, or bulb-mite ;
this is allied to the bulb-mite which wrought so
much mischief among Eucharis Lilies a few years
ago. 3, Larva of a bet tie ; there are many species
of beetle, as of acarus, which prey on cultivated
crops and plants ; all are to be carefully guarded
against. 4, Nematode worms of microscopic dimen-
sions, but none the less destructive because they
are small and able to carry out their operations
unobserved. 5, Enchytra?is parvulus, the Aster-

304

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

worm described by me in these columns Aug. 14,
1897. This small white worm is now found to
be ubiquitous, and while it serves a useful purpose
as a scavenger, as I have recently been able to
demonstrate, it becomes very injurious when it gets
into flower-beds and kitchen gardens. The case of
the Tulips is hopeless. All decaying and affected
material should at once be burnt, the plots fre-
cpaently dug, and treated with lime, salt, nitrate of
soda, or other insecticide. No highly cultivated
plants should be set in the same beds till the latter
have been disinfected. Care should also be taken
when any new application of manure or fertiliser
is made. The gardener should always see to it
that mould, decayed vegetable matter, manure,
and other materials used are freed from these
pests before they are applied to beds or mixed in
the flower-pots. Waste materials reserved for
fertilising should be mixed with gas lime, salt, or
other remedies against these minute but ever-to-
be-dreaded enemies of horticulture. I shall be glad
to report on other cases, but must ask all
correspondents who wish their consignments ac-
knowledged to enclose stamped envelope for
reply. Hilderic Friend (Rev.), Ocker Hill, Tipton,
May 3.

BIRDS AND FRUIT-TREES. — I can assure my
friend, " R. M." (Gardeners' Chronicle, p. £68),
that the tomtit really does destroy the somewhat
advanced buds of the Pear. This year these birds
have been very destructive, and I and the men
working in the fruit-garden have watched them at
a short distance, and upon examining the spot
immediately we have found the destroyed buds on
the ground beneath the trees. No trace of any insects
could be found in the remaining buds. The past
year or two the birds have destroyed nearly the
whole of the buds of our white Lilac aud double-
flowering Cherries, and the bushes are half dead as
the result. C. Herrin, Dropmore Gardens.

I do not agree with " R. M., Newbury,"

on p. 268. I have myself shot tom-tits when
pecking at Black Currant buds, aud have found
the same in their beaks when dead. They are also
most destructive to soft Apples, and all kinds of
dessert Pears. Last season I was obliged to net
my Pears on some trees where I wanted the
fruits for exhibition purposes. In the case of
some of the trees the net went round them
four times, but even then the tits found their
way through it. The birds that keep me busy
with the gun are bullfinches, tom-tits, blackbirds,
thrushes, chaffinches, offinehes, and jays. My
Cherries are under wire-netting, that is the reason
I have not added the starling. I destroy all the
birds enumerated above whenever a chance occurs.
E. Coleman, Kent,

NEMESIAS. — When a few years since Messrs.
Sutton & Sons introduced those beautiful half-hardy
annuals in variety, known as Nemesia strumosa,
the needs of these plants were not fully under-
stood, and they suffered in many gardens from such
treatment as raising from seed underglass, then dibb-
ling them out into the open ground direct from the
seed-pans. That there is a method of treatment
that will ensure entire success is evidenced in a
cool greenhouse at Mr. Mortimer's nursery, Farn-
ham, where there are several thousands of plants
in luxuriant growth, literally growing like Water-
cress. The major portion are of the newer
compact form, but some are of the earlier aud
more spreading habit. The plants are in scores,
iu boxes 12 inches by 9 inches, aud 3 inches
deep. No doubt it would have been better had
there been but twelve plants instead of twenty iu
each box, but such luxuriant growth as has resulted
could hardly have been foreseen. Pricked out
more thinly, transplanting into the open ground
with good balls of soil and roots would have been
easy. These plants, however, are not for this pur-
pose, and possibly they may make a very attractive
feature in Loudon a few weeks hence. Seed was
sown early in January, and also at the end of the
month ; but all the plants now are alike, and but
for severe pinching would be a mass of bloom.
A.D.

ALLEN'S EVERLASTING APPLE.— We have grown
this Apple here since 1873, and in my fruit record-
book the word "None" does not appear, though
there are blanks against it iu 1876, 1877, 1878, 1.S79,
1888, and 1893, when I may have failed to enter
the date at which the crop was gathered iu those years.
The latest date we have gathered it was Nov. 19

last year, and the earliest Nov. 7. I put the fruits
in a box in the fruit-room, it prevented them from
shrivelling. The first week in April (last month)
I took out eleven dozen, i.e., five good ones, one
dozen that were spotted with decay, and two dozen
badly decayed. We are still eating fruits of this
variety, and they are mostly unsbrivelled. //. R.

HOLLAND HOUSE. — The articles in the Gar-
deners' Chronicle upon the gardens at Holland
House, reminded me of an account of the history
of the place which appeared in the Loudon Daily
Xi ws of October 24, 1889. In this there is a refer-
ence to the improvement of the grounds and
gardens by Harry Fox, by whom they were acquired
ou lease in 17411. He purchased them iu 1767.
Lady Caroline Fox appears to have been the moving
spirit in these improvements. Fox's friend, the
Hon. Charles Hamilton, of Pain's Hill, " a gentle-
man celebrated for his exquisite taste in
gardening" (Loudon refers to him and his
garden iu the Encyclopedia of Gardening) was
consulted, and Mr. Peter Collinson was also
called in. Collinson was invited to meet Hamilton
at dinner when, as Fox said, in his letter to the
former, "Lady Caroline has a thousand questions
to ask about flowers, and I not much fewer about
plants." In 1750 Fox again wrote Collinson,
asking if he could procure some cones of Cypresses,
some " Acorns of Scarlet Oak, aud a bushel or more
of Chestnuts, for sowing." He thought "they are
less likely to impose on one so learned than on your
ignorant and humble servant, H. Fox." Later,
Collinson was again in request, for Fox
wrote, " Mr. Watson advised me to sow some-
thing with a hard name, to creep on the ground
and cover with green all the vacaut spaces in my
young plantations. I wish you would tell me what
it was." On the letter, which, the Daily News
tells us, is now with others in the MS. department
of the British Museum, is endorsed, " Double
Snowdrops. To remind him in March to sow
Candytuft, Rock Stock, Venus' Looking-glass, &c."
S. Arnott.

BROCCOLIS. — What has become of the old style
of Broccolis ? I used formerly to grow a purple
Broccoli, with a solid, rather conical, Cauliflower-
like purple head [The true Cape Broccoli. Ed.],
which, when cooked, was green and deliciously
"marrowy" in quality, with delicate flavour.
Now I can only get seed of sprouting Purple Broccoli,
not heads — quite a different thing ; and I have had
the same sent to me from Northants, excellent as
sprouts, but not Cauliflower heads. I used also to
grow an excellent vegetable Sulphur Broccoli [This
is belter kuown now as " Portsmouth," but it has
many synonyms. Ed.], very hardy aud well-
flowered. Now these seem to have disappeared.
To me it seems a pity that these old, excellent, and
hardy products should be superseded by others
which, if more showy for the exhibition-table, are
not equal for culinary purposes to the older kinds.
Are we not goiug in too much for the competitive
exhibition-table, to the detriment of the dinner-
table ? Will your correspondent call this a " green-
meat " question ? //. Milne-Redhead.

The unfortunate citizeu iu Louden pent,

is, perforce, obliged to make use of such varie-
ties and kinds of vegetables as the market
gardeners in their collective wisdom and special
knowledge of his supposed tastes, or in utter
disregard of them, vouchsafe to bring to the
market. In the matter of Broccoli, we have got far
away from the delicious early Penzance, which can
be had in season by making three sowings, two in
April, and one towards the end of May, from October
to April. The variety is a small grower with a
rather conical head, and being of au erect and
moderate growth, it does not need much space in
which to grow, say 1J foot each way. Being less
able to withstand frost thau some others, I always
planted it ou a sheltered west border with a high
wall behind. The purple Cape is rarely or never
seen in London. The plant is hardy, and the head
of delicious flavour ; and by makiug more than one
sowing, it may be had in season from late October
to April. The Walcheren, which is as much a
Cauliflower as a Broccoli, is another well- flavoured
useful variety, which in the south may be sown as
early as March, and as late as May 14. It does
not get so large a3 Autumn Giant if not heavily
manured, and is, therefore, a nice variety for the
best table ; moreover, its flavour is not, then,
inferior to a Cauliflower. The same may be said
of all Broccolis and Cauliflowers, it is the excessive

use of manure that spoils their flavour, and in-
ordinately increases the size of the crowns, besides
rendering them susceptible to injury by frost.
The Wilcove, Knight's Protecting, and the Ports-
mouth or Sulphur, seldom come to market, and
our tables are consequently the poorer by their
absence. M.

CULTURE OF CONIFERS.— On page 260 of the
Gardeners' Chronicle there appeared an extract
from a paper on the cultivation of Conifers. The
writer there said "Thuya orientalis, however,
refuses to unite with this " (Thuya occidental]^).
If this be his experience it is totally different to
mine. I have grafted T. orientalis on T. occiden •
talis and vice versd, although I have read and also
been told that the two would not unite. Further
ou Cupressus sempervireus is mentioned as the
stock on which to graft the Cupressus family.
Surely this is an error, and C. Lawsoniana is in-
tended ? C. sempervirens as I know it, is a
species of fastigiate habit, a uative of the Mediter-
ranean region, and not quite hardy iu our climate,
therefore totally unfit as a stock for our hardy
varieties of Cupressus. F. Roberts, Winchester.

THE "CASTOR-OIL PLANT" AT MANCHESTER.
— The plant, which appears to be commonly sold
in the Manchester markets and by itinerant plant
vendors as the Castor-oil plant, is not a Riciuus,
but Fatsia (Alalia) japouica. I am informed by a
Manchester correspondent that nine out of ten of
those who have a Fatsia as an indoor plant, know-
it as the Castor-oil plant ; and the florists in
Smithfield aud other markets, if asked for such a
plant, would give the purchaser a Fatsia. The itine-
rant plaut vendors in Manchester are mainly girls,
aud, iu addition to selling Fatsiasas Castor-oil plants,
they advise purchasers to pour a dose of castor-oil
ou the soil occasionally, as this assists the Fatsia
in retaining its leaves ! It would be interesting to
know from what source this custom of giving
castor-oil to a Fatsia to enable it to retain its
leaves grew ; one would thiuk that anything like a
frequent application of it to the soil would result
in occasioning a consistency auythiug but favour-
able to healthy plaut life. R. D.

CYTISUS SCOPARIUS VAR. ANDREANUS.— Tho
origin of this splendid variety is now well known
as having occurred in France some few years ago as
a sport from the common Broom — Cytisus scopa-
rius. Up to the present time I have never heard
of it occurring in English gardens ; but a few days
ago, on examining a bed of seedling common
Broom, I noticed several plants exhibiting this
sporting tendency. To show that these are un-
doubtedly sports, it is only necessary to mention
that the plants in the bed all flowered last season,
and none exhibited this characteristic. It is also
noteworthy to remark that only ou some of the
branches was it apparent. I send herewith a few
branches for your iuspection ; and I should be glad
to know if any readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle
have noticed a similar occurrence '! In connection
with the raising of Cytisus s. var. Andreanus from
seed, I have noticed that these flower as a rule
much earlier than grafted plants. E. S., Woking.

GREEK CURRANTS.— For the past year or two,
with the assistance of the Greek Consul-General,
we have been enabled to give some particulars
concerning the Greek Currant crop— the fall in
price aud the insufficient market demand. The
authorities of the Foreign Office have within the
past few days published some interesting details,
supplementing notes already published. The in-
dustry is in a bad way. Greek eggs are too much
iu one basket, with the result consequent on a fall.
Some fifteen or sixteen years since the Phylloxera
ruined French vineyards, aud French wine-makers
had import arrangements altered so as to admit
of the importation of Greek Currants ; then was
the heyday of that fruit. But the Vine-louse was
grappled with — was exterminated ; French vine-
yards were restocked, and prospered ; the Greek
Currants were no longer required for the produc-
tion of claret ; the vineyards required protection —
Currants were shut out; the "good friend" was
shown the door, and the Greek grower, unable to
find another market, has gone to the wall. It takes
five years to set up profitable Curraut plantations,
and the grower did not care to at once sacrifice his
money and his labour, aud so the Greek Government
enacted that 15 per cent, of the annual crop should
be bonded aud sold after shipments were finished,

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

305

for home consumption. There has been a failure
in this palliative, and now the Greeks are found to
insist on the destruction of this reserve, as
Billingsgate salesmen condemn an over-supply of
fish to be returned to the sea — dead ! The problem
now is, how to make a profit on the present output.
Possibly some will advocate the making of claret,
getting extra "body" from some other source —
perhaps Australia. We can only here express the
wish that the Greek agriculturist may find a
speedy and effectual solution to the economic
problem now set before him for solution. E. C.

PRIMULA OBCONICA AND SKIN IRRITATION.—
Thirteen years ago I knew a young lady who suf-
fered whenever she touched this plant ; but she
was the only member of the family the plant
affected. Since that time I have seldom met a
person whom it does affect ; but as the irritation
is generally felt almost immediately, and each time
the plant is handled, it would be an easy matter
for any individual to liud out for himself.
For every one that it hurts there must be
a host who feel no ill-effects from it, and why dis-
card so useful a plant simply because someone else
lias been stung by it ? There is a man in this
district who cannot clip Ivy because it makes his
face, hands, and arms swell to nearly double their
usual size, but we are not thinking of discarding
Ivy for that reason. Holly has a bad effect on my
own hands and arms, so has the sap of Figs.
Violas give me heartburn whenever I am working
among them ; but Primula obconica has absolutely
no effect upon me. For most purposes, P. obconica
is more useful than P. sinensis, and is easier of
propagation. II. E. C.

I have been potting P. obconica by the

side of a fellow-workman, and his bauds have
suffered a great deal. I have never seen or heard
of a teetotaller being affected in this manner.
Jl. E. Brain.

DOES LAND DETERIORATE? — The (|Uestiou can
be answered yes or no, for laud does deteriorate
from neglect, starvation, and foulness, ami wheu
these three things occur it does so to a great extent
and loss, it being unable to produce to its full
power. On the other hand, land manured, clean,
and well attended to, shows its action on plants by
their vigorous growth, and greater productiveness.
Liberally-manured, well tilled, and kept free from
weeds, you can plant as long as you choose, and it
will respond to the treatment. My experience is
practical ; my land has been planted with com
ever since I can remember — Wheat, Barley, and
Beans, one after the other, and I never heard my
father say other, and that with farmyard manure,
the most lasting food for farm crops. Artificial
manures may answer, but from my observations
at least, not on my land. My neighbour, some
years ago, had a great fondness for it instead
of the genuine article, and had some sown
across a piece of freshly-sown Barley, and it took
such an effect upon it, that one could not see any
difference between the dressed and the other part
of the field. Another gentleman gave me ^ his
experience, which was similar. I have an artificial
loaf, which looks very nice and real, but it is of no
use ; and artificial flowers are showy, but they
want a little of Bimmell's scent to them, and what
are they as compared with real flowers '! I know-
there are manures offered for every crop that is
grown, but I believe the best results are found in the
pockets of those that sell them. For how many
crops will one dose of these mixtures last ? does it
benefit one or many ? I use the same thing out of
my farmyard, solid or liquid, for any kind of crop.
I dilute the liquid if I think it is too strong for plants
in pots ; but for the arable field or on grass-land I use
it just as it is, and very effective manure it is,
soon changing the look of the crops. I give
it to all kinds of plants that I grow, if I think
they require a little assistance. Not being a novice
in plant cultivation, I apply mnnure to exotics or
any kind of plants, and if my land will produce
good crops year after year that of others will do
the same. I was interested in the remarks on
manure in the Gardeners' Chronicle some time
since, and I have taken the liberty to give the
experience of many years in manuring, which I
am fully satisfied with. My land has produced
more than seven quarters of Wheat, and seven of
Barley after Wheat, to the acre, which is not a
bad result for hard work and good cultivation.
/. G.

PELORIATE DENDEOBIUM.

From the gardens, Mill House, Halifax, we have
received a very interesting specimen of Dendro-
bium fimbriatum, in which the two lateral sepals
had assumed the same form and coloration as the lip.
The flower (lig. Ill), therefore, has three lips, and
affords an instance of irregular peloria. The column
is erect.

We are informed by Mr. J. A. Woods, the gardener
at Mill House, that the growth which carried the
flowers was 6,j feet in length, that the flower-spike
had three branches, and that all of the flowers with
the exception of three were similarly malformed.

In the case of peloriate flowers of Orchids it is
usually the lateral petals which take on, more or
less, the form and coloration of the lip, but in
a variety of Dendrobium nobile, lately figured, the
two lower sepals had become lip-like.

Belgium.

F. SANDER & CO.'S NURSERY, BRUGES.

In our issue for May 14 last year, p. 29(1, we
published a brief account of this wonderful newly-
founded nursery at St. Amine, just outside one of

'

S

-PELORIA OF DF.S'DROBIUM FIHRRFATl M :

I ! i.u ERS YEI I ■ IW.

the old gates of Bruges. We mentioned the huge
blocks of contiguous houses, some with party
walls, and some without any, that were filled to
their utmost capacity with Palms, Dracaenas,
Azaleas, and Orchids chiefly. Much of the
stock of plants then existing in the houses
have gone to fill the insatiable demand for plants
all over the Continent and in America, and yet the
houses are as well filled as then. Roughly speak-
ing, Azalea indica are arranged at the present time
in the contiguous houses of which mention is made,
covering 5 acres of land, cheaply built, light and
commodious, with just the requisite heating appa-
ratus, but without any superfluities. Presently
the entire stock of Azaleas will be planted out in
narrow beds, with brick kerbing, with 2 feet alleys
between, filled with the renowned Belgian leaf-
mould. As but comparatively few Azaleas are cul-
tivated in pots in the Belgian nurseries, either under
glass, or when growing in the open ground, the
labour of transferring this immense number of
plants is greatly facilitated. The trade in Azaleas
is but in its commencement, and new houses for
harbouring great numbers are being constructed.
Messrs. Sander are not satislied with cultivating
varieties raised by others, but they go largely into

the business of raising new ones, and consider
themselves extremely fortunate if one in 5000 turns
out to be a better thing than any existing variety.
It is needless to say, that, all that do not reach
this standard are consigned to the rubbish-heap as
soon as they have bloomed.

The Palms, which in importance equal the
Azaleas, occupy glasshouses covering, at the lowest
computation, 1* acre of land, and they are mostly
contiguous with some overhead hot-water pipes, as
a means of equalising the temperature ; and, as a
whole, they are remarkable for handsome develop-
ment, abundance of roots, and healthy-looking,
handsome leaves. A sickly plant must be a great
rarity, and we did not observe one in any of the
houses. The plants are plunged in tan-beds in most
cases, the smaller in the side beds, and the taller
in the central bed, for almost every house is pro-
vided with three beds, the middle one being
sometimes 12 feet wide, Latauias were in strong
force, also Cocos Weddelliaua, and Kentias of spe-
cies. Of the more rare species mentiou should be
made of Livistona rotundifolia, of which there is a
great stock of plants, a handsome Palm for table work.
Ceroxylon niveum from Columbia, an importation
of Mr. W. Bull some years ago, and now obtainable
as seed in quantity, a fine species ; Licuala grandis,
many fine plants; Martinisia, with broad haudsome
leaves and leaflets— new ; a species of Kentia that
throws up numerous stems from the root, and has
brown-tinted heart-leaf, is a fine Palm ; Kentia
Belmoreana Mooreana, has brown ribs and stems,
and is valuable for variety ; and of Caryota majes-
tica a fine lot of plants was observed, chiefly young
stuff, growing in a house apart. Other species, of
which considerable quantities exist, are Charmvrops
excelsa, French-grown plants, strong, aud good ;
Phrenix recliuata, P. canadensis, also of the same
origin, a most useful Palm that is much in request
on the Continent, and of which a houseful of speci-
mens 5 to 6 feet in height, bushy, and vigorous,
was seen ; Cocos flexuosa, about as equally popular
a species ; Deinamorops species, and others.

A houseful of Dracaena stricta plants of a regular
height of 2 feet, aud perfect in form and leafage,
was remarked, as well as a splendid lot of Pandanus
Veitchi, another popular plant. Of Dracaena Sau-
deriana and D. Godserriana, there were noted great
numbers of compactly - grown smallish plants.
Anthuriums are cultivated in considerable numbers,
and hybridising is constantly going on. A pink-
coloured variety of A. Seherzerianum with a double
spathe was observed, which has shown this feature
constantly for two seasons, will be increased.
Orchids are constantly being received in immense
numbers from their native countries, some in large
masses of 3 feet in diameter, aud also as quite small
plants, and so generally rapid is the transit in these
days, that it is rarely that many are dead or past
recovery on arrival. Odontoglossums form the
greater proportion of the stock, and an extensive
trade is done in cut blooms of this genus. Some of
the finest 0. crispum in the possession of the firm
are probably unmatched, the natural hybrids being
of special beauty. Of other species there were fine
forms visible, and mention should be made of a
natural hybrid of O. cirrosum, which is said to be
the finest that a collector has ever discovered in
regard to the size, form, and markings of the
flower. It will doubtless arouse much admiration
when it is brought over to the next Temple Show.
Beautiful varieties of O. triumphans and of O.
Halli were noted. A very beautiful natural hybrid
of O. Halli and 0. luteo-purpureum, lip white with
a semicircular line at the base ; sepals and petals
dark brown, and the width of the flower about
5 inches, was pointed out to us.

Of Cattleyas in species, thousands can be seen in
all stages, including a quantity of C. Harrisoni.
Thousands of plants of Cattleya labiata, newly
imported, were spread out on benches in the houses.
Ladia auceps were very numerous, and we cannot
remember to have observed stronger or healthier
specimens of L. purpurata.

It was remarkable to observe how the Orchids

306

THE GABDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1S99.

formed a net-work of the healthiest roots in the
leaf-mould of the country, sphagnum-moss being
only employed as a top-dressing, and as a means
of judging the condition of the whole mass in
reference to moisture. A fine stock of Sweet Bays
as pyramids and standards were noted in all stages
of development, from the rooted cutting up to the
perfect saleable specimen, and growiug in the open
ground and in tubs and pots.

As showing the manner in which every available
space is turned to use in this remarkable nursery,
beds for the germination of Palm-seeds occupy the
spaces under the stages and lateral brick-pits in all
the houses in which Palms are grown, as well as in
many others.

©bituai^.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

Pre* tit : Dr. M. T. Masters (in the chair) ; Prof. Church,
Mr. Kutton, Rev. W. Wilks, Rev. Prof. G. Henslow (hon. sec).

1 attltya Malformed.— Dr. Masters exhibited a blossom having
'inly one petal, one sepal, and a straight column. This reduc-
tion to a symmetry of " two " is not uncommon in Orchids.

Parasitic / «»<m.— Some interesting communications, with
specimens of Polyporus ubuarius, showing how it appears to
cause t lie decay of the interior of the tree, and fructifies in the
hollow, were sent by Dr. Plowright ; also descriptions of
parasitic fungi on Alders and Willows. Figures of these will
appear in the Gafden&rj Chronicle shortly. A vote of thanks
was .^iven to Dr. Plowright for his conimuuicati'tn.

BRISTOL & DISTRICT GARDENERS'.

At t lie annual meeting held recently at St. John's Parish
Room, Uedland, Mr.W. A. Caraway, who presided, stated that
the Society, though started only a year ago, now numbers
<>\<T 100 members. Meetings are held, and lectures given on
suhjeets of interest to horticulturists, the average attendance
being seventy. Mt. H. Cart; Batten was agiin elected
President.

WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT GAR
DENERS'.

May 3.— On the above date, Professor Grot es, 1.1. S., gave
a lecture on '" Mosses," tracing the similarities and 'inferences
between them and Ferns in a very clear manner.

Tin- way in which the muss plant produces spores for repro-
duction, and tin' quick growth of the plant, by which large
patches of land are covered in a short time, were carefully
explained. The reasons why moss is always, found in damp
places were pointed out ; and the diagrams explanatory "t the
lecture were most useful.

Mr. T. Haakett, gr. to J. W. Rhodes, Esq., Hcnnerton,
exhibited some beautiful Rhoiodendrons, which, were much
admired,

NATIONAL AURICULA.

(Northern Section.)

May 5.— The annual exhibition was held on the above date
in the Coal Exchange, Manchester. Notwithstanding the
lament of our old friend Mr. D'Ombrain, that " the popularity
of the Auricula is on the wane," there can be no doubt the
Auricula has still many enthusiastic votaries in the North,
who love the flower well enough to give it all the attention so
essential to its well doing.

On this occasion the quality of the flowers was of a high
order of merit, bearing in mind the very treacherous season
that has been experienced. As old Ben SImonite remarked,
"they had every reason to congratulate themselves, both on
the quality and quantity of the exhibits." General regret
was expressed at the absence, through indisposition, of the
Rev. F. 1). Horner, whose plants are always an ititeresting
feature of the show. Over tiOO plants were staged, and the
principal prize-winners were Mr. T. Lord, Todmorien ; Mr.
B. Simokitb, Sheffield; and Mr. A. R Brown, Birmingham.

New exhibition varieties were exhibited by Messrs. Lord
and Simonite, Mr. Bimonite showing a very line, new, green-
edged variety ofgreal promise.

New alpines were shown by Messrs. R. Gorton, Eecles ;
and R. Holding, Birmingham.

The best six Auriculas, dissimilar, were from Mr. T. Lord,
Todmorden, who'showed Geo. Lightbody, Acme, F. D. Horner,
R. Headley, Mrs. Pi.tts, and Abram Barker— a tine lot ; 2nd,
Mr. Ben Simonite, Sheffield.

or four Auriculas, dissimilar, Mr. T. Lord was again 1st,
and Miss Woodhead 2nd.

The best collection of six Alpines (six dissimilar), was that
from Mr. A. It. Brown, Birmingham ; and foi four Alpines
(distinct), those of Mr. J, Beswick.

llie prei i Auricula was Mr. T. Lord's Abram Barker

(First-class Certificate); and the premier Alpine, Mr
A. R. Brown's J. F. K--u.

Mr. Frank Law, of Sale, exhibited a fine collection of
Narcissus.

Malcolm Dunn, V.M.H. — Just before going
to press we are shocked by the news of the death
after twenty-four hours acute illness, of our valued
contributor, Mr. Dunn, head gardener to the Duke
of Bucclench, Dalkeith Palace, since 1871. We are
unable, for the moment, to write more than an
announcement of this sad event, but in our next
issue we hope to give some particulars of the life
and work of this excellent gardener, who for many
years has been the best known of Scottish horticul-
turists. His extreme willingness to assist every
deserving cause was most remarkable.

T. A. Dickson. — It is with deep regret we
learn of the decease of Mr. T. A. Dicksou, head of
the firm of T. A. Dickson & Co., florists, Centre
Row, Covent Garden. Mr. Dickson was taken
ill in August of last year, and subsequently had

A brother of deceased was, at one time, superin-
tendent of the market previously to Mr. Assbee.

Mr. T. A. Dickson had been employed in the
market from his youth. His wife, who was also
engaged in the business, predeceased him, and
he leaves one son. The business, we ars
informed, will be carried on, as usual, and under
the same name, by Mr. F. S. Lucy, a nephew of
the deceased gentleman.

Deceased was greatly respected by all fre-
quenters to the market, and his unobtrusive
and kindly personality will be much missed.
He at one time was a member of the Board
of Works, and was also much interested in
the Covent Garden Lodge of Freemasons, and
in various horticultural charities. For ourselves,
we have been indebted to him for valuable informa-
tion respecting market prices from week to week.
The funeral will take place at Norwood Cemetery
on Saturday, at 12 noon.

The hit MALCOLM DUNN, V.M.H.

a paralytic stroke, which, together with general
weakness and debility, prevented him from
again resuming the active part he had taken in the
management of the business, and he passed peace-
fully away on Tuesday, the 9th iust., in his sixty-
fifth year.

The firm of Dickson has been associated with
Covent Garden Market for almost a century, and
fifty years ago deceased's father had a stand in the
market, and a nursery at Brixton. The site of the
nursery has long since been built upon, and chauges
almost as great have taken place in the firm's posi-
tion in the market. From the " stand " that used
to be erected opposite the church, which had
to be cleared away every Saturday evening, Messrs.
Dickson moved to a position iu the Centre Row, and
later to the shop nearest to the church, which they
at present possess. The business is now purely
that of a florist's, and a number of young persoDS
are employed continually iu the making up of
bouquets and other floral devices. A considerable
trade is done in moderate-sized plants of a decora-
tive character, and a group of the flowering plants
in season could always be seen outside of the shop.

THE PANSY.

Its Names and Its Evolution. — Though the
Pansy is deservedly admired at the present day, it
is open to question if we now regard it with the
same affection as did our forefathers. The names
they have left us— some thirty iu number — are,
for the most part, judicative of a deep-rooted senti-
ment. To explain some of these names, much
ingenuity has been exercised during the last
hundred and fifty years. Dr. Johnson provides an
instance of an extreme nature. In his Dictionary,
Pansy is explained as a corruption of Panacey
(Opopanax) ; while iu his edition of Shakespeare, he
declares the word "is for thoughts, because of its
name Pensees." In this case we may perhaps
question the great lexicographer's ingenuity, but
not his learning. It is perhaps not so well known
that Pausy was at one time a designation applied
not to the whole plant, but to the flowers only. In
a description of the plant, Dodoans says: — "The
French call the flowers 'peusees.' " The Belgians
and the people of Brabant employed the word iu the
same sense. Pansy as a name was not in common
use until the present century was well advanced ;

May 13, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

307

it appears sometimes as the Garden Violet, but
more commonly as Heartsease. So late as 1840,
long lists of varieties, as well as cultural remarks,
were published under this title. Sometimes
Heartsease alone was employed, though very fre-
quently "or Pansies" was added — as, for example,
in Carter's Catalogue for 1S44.

" Love-in-idleness " has been long obsolete. The
experience of Luccntio points to a belief that the
flower was as potent as a love-philtro in producing
the "grand" passion. Shakespeare calls it also
"Cupid's Flower." It is mentioned in the same
sense by Spenser, and Milton names the Pansy as
one of the flowers that formed the couch of the
first happy pair. " Cuddle me to you," and many
other expressive names bespeak affection. "Flamy "
carries us back to the time when Viola tlammea
was recognised as one of its botanical appellations.
Phillip's World of Words (1720) has " Flammula,
Herb Trinity, or Heartsease." A century later
another Phillips says it received the name of
"Flamy, because its colours are seen in the flame
of wood " ( !).

Banwort or Bonewort appears in The Plant Lore
of Shakspeare as a name of the Pansy and Daisy.
Banwyrt in one of Douglas' Prologues is Bauun-
culus bulbosus, which Markham declares is
" venimous for the beast." The Banewort of
Lyte's Herbal is "Speerwort, or Banunculus
Flammula," which is there said to kill sheep.
Yet another Banwort is Atropa Belladonna.

The Pansy found a place in medicine, and was
employed to " couglutinate blood " for falling sick-
ness and some other illnesses. In cookery it found
no place, but both on the continent and in England
it was an early introduction to the "Garden of Plea-
sure." So little, however, has been said of its
qualities by old writers, that we may skip those pre-
vious to Miller. He states there were many varie-
ties which differ greatly in the size and colour of
their flowers. Some of the varieties have very
large, beautiful flowers, which have an agreeable
odour ; others have small flowers, without scent."
And, again, " Some of the varieties have the
flowers much larger, and others of the size of
March Violets ; some of them have the two upper
petals of a deep yellow colour, with a purple spot
in each, the two middle of a paler colour, with a
deep yellow spot, and the lower petal of a velvet
colour ; in others the petals are white with yellow
and purple spots ; in some the yellow is the most
prevailing colour, and in others the purple." The
"spots "above mentioned are doubtless blotches,
as later growers called them. Miller, and other cul-
tivators, down to about the year 1825, appear to have
raised plants solely from seed, though we may note
the mention of Pansies of two distinct shades of
blue, which occur in a sensibly- writ ten little book
called the Florist's Manual, by Miss Jackson, in
1827. This lady employed these Pansies for mass-
ing in flower-beds. That keen florist, Hogg, of
Paddington, does not mention the Pansy in the
first edition (1S21) of A Treatise on Florist's
Flowers. In 1822, second edition, "Heartsease"
occurs in a list of hardy plants ; and in 1833, when
a 208-page supplement of the above-named work
was published, about seventy varieties are enume-
rated. In that year, in an article on the cultivation
of Pansies, Harrison, then of Wortley, assures his
readers that about 200 varieties were cultivated.
Blooms grown to the largest possible size measured
2J inches deep by 2 inches across the upper petals.
The colouring of many of the flowers about this time
was most beautiful. One possessed upper petals of
a deep violet, with the lower aud side-petals yellow,
and splashed on the edges with dark green. Another.
iu form exactly like a Viola, had a lemon ground
colour, with a narrow edge of the faintest blue
round all the petals. The upper petals of another
variety were dark plum-coloured, the whole of the
others cream, belted with peacock-green, and below
the eye a blotch of dark orange. One of the
prettiest appeared in 1810. This variety had a
white ground with a rough belting of lavender,
upper petals of the same shade, but faintly edged

with light-blue"; dark blotchescut off the yellow
eye from the white ground. From this date the
flowers more and more nearly approached the
" properties " of the florist. These Show Pansies
were long favourite flowers among the humbler
class of florists, one of whom, I remember, on
account of his proclivities, having received the
sobriquet of "Pansy Will." About 18G0, John
Downie introduced the Fancy Pansy from Belgium.
Its progress was much slower than that of the
Show Pansy, because mauy growers would have
nothing to do with it. So late indeed as 1S73, a
writer iu The Gardener mentions the variety "John
Downie" as approaching very nearly the qualities
expected in high-class blooms. In another ten
years "Fancies" had become first favourites, a
position they have maintained not only on account
of their greater beauty, but also because of their
stronger and more floriferous habit. Fancy Pansies
are obtained fairly true from seed, and for ordinary
purposes it is perhaps the best method of propaga-
tion. Sown in a little heat in the month of
February, very strong plants are produced for
flowering in late summer and autumn. I!. P.
Brothi rston.

Markets.

— ■♦ — —
COVENT GARDEN, MAY 11.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
quality of the samples, the supply in the market, and the
demand ; and they may fluctuate, not only from day to
dav, but often several times in one day. Ed.1

&c.— Average Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s. d. s. d, s, d.

Marguerites, p. doz.
16-20 bunches 30-40

Maidenhair Fern,
2 0-40 per doz. bunches 60-90

Mignonette, per

2 0-30 dozen bunches ... 20-30
Narcissus, White,

3 0-40 dozen bunches ... 16-20
Orchids, per dozen

6 0-90 blooms 6 0-12 0

0 4-06 Pelargoniums, doz.

bunches 4 0-60

16-20 — scarlet, per doz.

bunches 0 0-^0

16-30 Roses (indoor), per

dozen 16-20

2 6- 4 0 — Pink, per dozen 4 0-60
10 SO — Tea, white, per

10-30 dozen 20-30

— Perle, per doz. 10-20

4 0-60 — Safrano, p. doz, 16-20
Sndlax, per bunch 3 0-50

10-20 Tuberoses, 12 blnis. (I S- 1 0

Tulips, per dozen... 0 6-13
4 0-60 Violets, per dozen

bunches 0 6-16

6 0-10 0 — Parma, bunch 2 0-26

Out Flowers,

Anemones, dozen

bundles

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms

Asparagus "Fern,"

bunch

Azalea, white, 12

bunches

Azalea mollis, per

dozen bunches ...
Bouvardias, per bun.
Camellias, per doz.

blooms

Carnations, per doz.

blooms-

Daffodils, per dozen

bunches

Eueharis, per dozen
I lardenlas, per doz.
Hyacinl us, Koman,

per doz. bunches
Jonquils, per dozen

bunches

Lilium Longiflorum,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

dozen bunches ...

Plants in Pots.

s.

Arbor Vita1, p. doz. 12

Aspidistras, p. doz. is

— specimen, each 5
Dracsenas, various,

per doz 12

— viridis, p. doz. 9
Euonymus, various,

per dozen ... 6

Evergreens, invar.,

per dozen ... 6

Ferns, in variety,

per dozen

Average Wholesale Pricks

d. s. d. i s.
0-36 0 Ferns, small, per

0-36 0 100 4

0-10 o Ficus elasUca, each l
Foliage plants, var.,

2 0-30 0 each l

9 0-1S 0 Lycopodiums, doz. 3

Marguerite Daisy,

6 0-1S 0 per dozen ... 6

Myrtles, per doz.... 6

6 0-24 0 Palms, various, ea. 1

— specimens, ea. 21

4 0-12 0 Zonals, per dozen. . 0

Fruit.—

Apples, Tasmanian
andVictorian,
Bibs ton s,
Pearmains,

New York
Pippin, Stur-
mer, Prince
Bismarck, &c.
per case

Apricots, box of 24

Bananas, per bunch

Cherries, sieve
box

Cranberries, Ameri-
can, box

— Russian, kegs..
Figs, per dozen ..
Gooseberries, quart

— French package
6 lbs

Average Wholesale Prices.
s. d. s. d. s.

Grapes, Belgian A.,
per lb., new ... ]

— English, Ham-
bros, per lb. ... -2

— Muscats p. lb. 5
Lemons, per case... 6
Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 lb. ... 1
Melons, each .. 1
Oranges, Jafla.cases 15

— Murcia, cases of
150 or 210 ... 7

— Blood, 7

Peaches, per dozen 9
Pears, Australian,

cases ...
Pines, St. Michaels,

each

Strawberries, p. lb.

— Seconds

12 0-15 6

1 0- 1 3
S 0-10 0
10 6 —
10 —

11 0
1 6
4 0-

d. $. d.

0-6 0
0-5 0

0-5 0
0-4 0

0- S 0
0-9 0
0-15 0
0-63 0
0- 8 0

d. s. d.

0-7 0
0-10 0

3- 1 4
3- 1 9
0 —

n- 9 6
(l- 9 6
0-31.1 0

Vegetables.

Artichokes, Globe,
per doz.

— Jerusalem, per
sieve

Asparagus, Giant,
per bundle

— Toulouse

— Barcelona

— Spanish, bund.

— Sprue

— Cahore, bundle

— Eng., natural,
per bundle ...

— Various others
Beans. Dwfs., Chan-
nel Islands, lb.

English, 11).

Longpods.in

flats

Beetroots, per doz.

— bushel ,.
Broccoli, dozen ...

— crates ...
Cabbage, tally

— Coleworts,

bushel

— dozen

Carrots, new French,

per bunch

— washed, in bags

— Surrey,buncbcs,

doz

Celery, Red, dozen

bundles
Cress, doz. punnets
Cucumbers, per doz.
Endive, French, per

dozen ..
Garlic, per lb.
Horseradish, New

English, bundle

— — loose per
doz., flue

— Foreign, per
bundle..

Leeks, per dozen

bunches
Lettuce, Cos, dozen

— Cabbage, dozen
Mushrooms, house,

per lb

2 0-26

16-20

6 0-10 0
13-16
10 —
10-1 0
0 6 —

or -

2 0-46
0 9- 1 0

0 6- 0 8

0 6- 0 S

3 0 —

0 6-09
2 0-26
10-26
0 0-12 0

4 0-50

. d. s. d.

2 0-60

5 ii
2 6

per

2 0
0 9-

0 6
4 0

4 6-
2 0-
£ 6
2 0
1 0

0 0 L0
4 0 —

— Average Wholesale Prices
d. s. d,

Mint, forced and
natural, per
dozen bunches,
according to
size of bunches
Onions, Egyptian,
cwt. bag ...

— New, bunches,

— picklers, sieve
Parsley, doz. bun.

— sieve

Peas, Channel Is-
lands, in handled
baskets, lb. ...

— Frame Tele-
phone, lb. ...

— French flats ...
Potatos, Bruce, Sax-
on, Up-to-Date,
&c, per ton ...80 0-10,

— New Jersey Kid-
neys, per cwt. 30 0-3:

— — Frame,
per lb

— — Teneriffe,
per cwt.

— Lisbon, per box
Radishes, Round,

breakfast, per
dozen bunches 10-16
Long, per doz.
bunches
Rhubarb natural,
per dozen

— York, per doz.
bundles

Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen

Seakale, natural, p.
doz. punnets ...

Spinach, English,
per bushel ...

Tomatos, new
English, per lb.

— Guernsey, p. lb.

— Canary, boxes..
Turnips, New

French, per

bunch , 0 6-

Watercress, p. doz.

bunches ... 0 6

1 o

2 6 —

6 0 —

1 6 —

2 0-30

16-20

0 3 —

2 0 2 6

1 6 —

1 0 —

2 0 —

3 6- 4 0
16-20

0 8-09

<> ::',

14 0-1 r, o

4 6-50

0 9-0 10

2 0-26

1 3

0 9-0 10
0 7- 0 8

2 u- 4 i)

POTA COS.

Bruce, Saxon, and Main Crop, 80s. to LOOs. ; Up-to-Date,
100s. to 105s.; Dunbar Main Crop, 105s. to 110s. John Bath,
32 and 34, Wellington Street, Ooveni Garden.

//, marks. — Jersey new Potatos are now coming in, but
there is only a light supply at present. Gooseberries are ho1
vers plentirulal present. Foreign Cherries and Apricots are
yet of medium quality. There is much variety in Asparagus,
home-grown samples are not large. Some of the Australian
Pears arc very poor. Home-grown Radishes are good.

SEEDS.

Losdok: .1/ i ". Me is. John Shaw & Sons, Seed Mer-
chants, Ol Greal Maze Pond, Borough, Loudon, S.E., write
that, although the spring Clover-seed season is now about
over, a few sowing orders still drop in, which are executed at
the low rates current. There U no change in Tares. Full
prices are asked for Mustard andBapeseed. Hemp-ssed, on
accounl of its real scarcity, an'd some resultant, speculation
therein, is again dearer. For Canary-seed, then- is also an
improved feeling. The Late strong rise in Butter Beans, has
I values of White Runners. Peas, Haricots, and
Lentils also tend upwards. The Linseed market is steady.

8 0

2 0-00

0 10-1 0

0-6 0
6-3 0
0-16

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

Glasgow : May 10. — The following are the averages of the
prices recorded since our last report :— Apples, Canadian
Spies, 14s. to IBs. per barrel ; Boston States Russets,
18s. to 20s. do.; Oranges, 4rf. to Sd. per dozen; Tomatos,
Guernsey, 4<7. to Sd. per lb. ; do., Scotch, 6d. to Sd.
do.; Grapes, home, 2s. to Is. Qd. per lb.; do. foreign,
Gd. do.; Spring Cabbages, lOd. to Is. per dozen; Broc-
coli, Edinburgh, 2s, to Is. 6d. per dozen; Herbs, assorted,
Id. to 2d. per bunch ; Leeks, is. Gd. to 3s. Gd. per dozen
bunches; Mint, green, Gd. per bunch ; Onions, -is. to 5s. per
cwt.; Parsley, 3s. to is. per stone; Carrots, new, round,
is. pel bunch; do., 5s. to 7s. per cwt.; Cucumbers,
id. to Qd. each ; Lettuces, round, Is. Gd. per dozen ;
Radishes, English, long, is. Gd. per dozen bunches ;
Horseradish, is. 9d. to 2s. per bundle; Radishes, round, Qd,
to9d. per dozen bunches ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. 3d, per lb. ;
Beetroots, 6d. to Id. per dozen ; Mustard and Cress, 3d. per
punnet; Spinach, Is. to 6s. per stone; Rhubarb, 14s. to L6s.
per cwt. ; Turnips, new French white,ls. to Is. 3d. per bunch ;
Swedes, 2s. to 2s. Qd. per bag ; Broccoli, Irish, 2s. to
per dozen; Green , is. bo 6s. for ten dozen ; Seakale, Is. to
Is. Qd. per bunch.

Liverpool: May 10. — Wholesale Vegetable Market.—
St. John's.— Potatos, Is. per peck, Peas, Gd. per pound;
Cucumbers, 4iZ. to Qd. each; Grapes, home, 3s. to 4s, p< r
pound; Pines, English, 4». to 6s. each; Mushrooms, Is. 4d.
per pound. Birkenhead.— Potatos, Is. to Is. 4d. per peck;
do., new, 2d. to '.</. per pound ; Peas, Gd. do. ; Asparagus, 2s.
to 3s. per 100 ; Cucumbers, 2d. to Gd. each ; Strawberries, 4s.
per pound ; Cherries, Sd. do ; Grapes, English, Is. Qd. to 3s. Gd.
do.; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. Qd. do.

308

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 13, 1899.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the
week ending May 6, and for the corresponding period of
1807, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

" The bright sunshine was in excess in all districts. The
percentage of the possible amount of duration ranged from
58 in 'England, N.W.,' and 57 in 'England, E.' and the
'Channel Islands,' to 39 in 'Scotland, E.,' and 38 in
'England, N.E.'

Description.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

Barley

Oats

s. d.

42 4

27 8
20 4

s. d.
25 3

24 5

17 6

s. d.

- 17 1

- 3 3

- 2 10

The Weather.

[The term "accumulated temperature indicates the aggregate
amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees — a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature,

Rainfall.

Bright
Sun.

to

js bo

t!

> =i
o a>

Accumulated.

3
H

en «

S3

u u

±§

ea

o

a

o
c

.9

» B,

t-.CO
rf r-l

o"

53

O
00

a

at

hi
«
u

a
a

3

o

Pe rcentage of possible Dura-
tion for the Week.
Percentage of possible Dura-
tion since Jan. 1, 1899.

s

o

H

■i

(5

o
S

o

o ■*

h%

of*

>

o
,a
-X

o

A

u
O .

o 3

>

o
M

»

■V -- ~
U p BO

§ £ a

5 "
<1

o .

la j

sgg

Day-

deg.

Day-
deg.

Day-
deg.

Day-
deg.

lOths
Inch.

Ins.

0

4 -

25

33

- 1

- 6

4 -

83

18-2

54

28

1

6 -

20

83

- 18

+ 9

1 -

78

119

39

30

2

4 -

21!

14

+ 94

- 90

2 +

69

7-8

38

28

a

4 -

36

13

+ 112

- 1S1

4 -

65

7-1

57

37

4

3 -

45

15

+ 91

- 135

3 -

64

9-3

48

34

e

2 -

45

2

+ 139

- 179

4 -

58

8-8

54

3S

6

4 -

37

17

+ 15

- 46

0 aver

79

18-5

54

29

7

3 -

38

10

+ 106

— 135

2 -

74

12-4

58

33

8

1 -

45

0

+ 125

- 117

5 -

71

16-1

53

37

9

1 -

43

7

+ 40

- 64

3 -

87

13'3

51

32

10

0 aver

53

0

+ 115

- 50

5 -

73

16-2

53

35

*

0 aver

03

0

+ 266

- 67

4 -

68

109

57

42

The districts indicated by number in the first column arc
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, <tc, 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 May 6, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office :—

" The watiher was rather unsettled at the commencement
of the week, with occasional rain at most of our more northern
and north-western stations. After Tuesday, however, very
dry conditions, with fine bright days and cold nights, set in
over the whole Kingdom, and continued throughout the rest
of the period.

"The tempt ratlin was just equal to the mean in ' Ireland, S.'
and the ' Channel Islands,' but below it elsewhere, the deficit
ranging from 1° in ' England, S.W.' and ' Ireland, N.,' to 4° in
' England, N.E. and E.,' and ' Scotland, N. and W.,' and to as
much as 6° in ' Scotland, E.' The highest of the maxima were
registered cither during the middle or end of the period, and
ranged from 67° in ' England, S.,' 66° in 'England, S.W.,' and
64° in Ireland, to 57" in ' England, N.W.,' and to 52° in
'England, N.E.' The absolute minima, which occurred
during the latter half of the week, were very low for the time
of year. In ' Scotland, N. and E.' the thermometer in the
screen fell to 25°, in ' Scotland, W.' to 27°, and in ' England,
N.E.- and the ' Midland Counties ' to 28°, while elsewhere the
minima varied from 29° in ' England, E.,' to 33° in ' England,
S.,' and to 43° in the 'Channel Islands.' The diurnal range
was, therefore, large, and sharp ground frost prevailed almost
nightly, the lowest grass readings reported being 22 at Fort
William, and 23 at Ochtertyre and Loughborough.

"The rainfall exceeded the mean in 'England, N.E.,' ami
.lust equalled it in 'Scotland, W.,' but was much less than

the normal elsewhere, 0\cr the southern half of the Kingd

the fall was "hardly appreciable, and many stations were
entirely without rain.

Carnations Diseased : A. P. F. The mouldy
dirty appearance of the foliage, and the rotten
stems, are due to fungi. The plants are being
kept too damp. Useful hints on treatment of
Carnations will be found in a recent report to the

Flu. 113. — TUE MARGUERITE LEAF-MINER (PHVTOMVZA
MGRXCORNIS).

[The instances of maggots in the above leaf are
indicated by a x.]

Royal Horticultural Society, Scientific Com-
mittee, see Gardeners' Chronicle, April 29, p. 270.
The disease on your plants is not clearly
bacteriosis, yet the fungus present is greatly
favoured by excessive moisture. To check the
fungus use some fungicide, for example, potassium
sulphide at rate of f ounce to each gallon of
water ; apply as a fine spray above and below
the foliage at intervals of two or three weeks.

Cucumbers turning Yellow at the Tip : A. C.
This may be due to several causes, viz., to lack
of top or of bottom heat, to disease of fungoid
nature, or to eelworms at the root, these being
introduced with the soil. Please send some
fruits, roots, foliage, &c, for our inspection.

CYTISUS SCOPARIUS SpOBT : E. 8. The plants sent,
that have come up iu a bed of Cytisus seoparius
are identical with C. s. Andreauus.

Dendrobium Jenkinsh : Veritas. Dendrobium
Jenkinsii usually flowers from the last-matured
pseudo-bulbs, although any of the older bulbs
may produce flowers from the unflowered nodes.

Fish Manure : B. B. Yes ; use in the proportion
of one part manure to sixteen parts compost.

Fruit by the "S.S. Omrah" from Tasmania:
J. Barnard, Boioes Pari;. The vessel was
expected in the river on Thursday last, i.e. , a day
and half before the advertised time. The major
part of the cargo will go to Covent Garden, and
be there disposed of by auction. It is usual for
samples of the fruit brought over from Australian
ports to London to be exposed at a few shops
in Monument Yard one day before sale takes
place, and announcements of sales are made in
the same quarter.

Insects : Windsor. The beetles are Aphodius
fossor ; very common at times in cow-dung and
manure. Not in any way injurious, that we are
aware of. — B. L. H. In respect to the woodlico,
you must catch them. Hollowed pieces of Potato,
Turnip, &c, turned with hollowed side down-
wards, make very good traps ; and if looked at
occasionally, and those insects found secreted
thereon plunged into boiling water, you will soon
diminish their number.

Marguerite Leaves : South Walian. The leaves
are attacked by the Marguerite Leaf-miner
(Phytomyza nigricoruis), see figure, which wo
reproduce below. The maggots of this insect eat
all the fleshy portion of the leaf, leaving the two
surfaces entire. It will be best to remove every
badly-infested leaf from the plants, and burn
them. Go over the plants occasionally after-
wards, and by examining leaves still affected,
the maggots can be detected, and squeezed
between the thumb and finger.

Melon Leaves Diseased : Constant Reader and
F. L. This is an " anthracnose," due to a fungus.
Melons and allied plants are attacked by various
fungi which produce spotting of the leaves. The
same is the case abroad, and much attention has
been given to diseases of this kind in America,
where they are very prevalent. A good remedy
has yet to be found. The kind of fungus present
indicates too much moisture and lack of air ;
the plants would be stronger and the fungus
checked if this were adjusted better. With
regard to spraying, the best we can do is to
quote an American of much experience. He
says, "Cucumbers, &c., may be treated with
fungicides for anthracnose and mildew with rea-
sonable hope of success. Bordeaux Mixture was
the best substance employed In my experiments,
it not only increased the yield, but prevented
rotting of the fruit."

Names of Plants: Correspondents not answered in
this issue art requested to ft« so good as to consult
the following number. — B.A.C. 1, Deudrobium
pulchellum ; 2, Cypripedium Lawrcnceanum ;
3, Adiantum hispidulum tenellum ; 4, Selaginella
viticulosa ; 5, Berberis stenophylla ; G, Kerria
japonica flore pleno. — S. O. 8. Begonia incar-
nata maculosa ; 2, Selaginella viticulosa ; 3,
Adiantum cuueatum mundulum ; 4, Pitcairnea
angustifolia ; 5, Cissus discolor ; 6, Begonia
nitida, probably, send when in flower. — F. M. On-
cidium lnridum ; 2, Oncidinm altissimum ; 3,
Oncidium sphacelatum. — M. O. 1, known in
gardens as Chlorophytum Sterubergianum ; 2,
Tracheleospermum jasminoides ; 3, Centaurca
ragusina; 4, probably Libouia penrhosieuse, send
when in flower. — N. E. G. Oruithogalum nutans,
and maybe found wild iu many places. — F. G. S.
Yitis antarctica, known iu some gardens as
Cissus antarctica. — E. S., Durham. Asclepias
curassavica. — W. T. Your Odoutoglossum is a
pretty form of the pink-tinted O. Andersonianum
known as O. Ruckeriauum. It is not a true O.
crispum, but a natural hybrid of it and O. glorio-
suin. — F. C. Too scrappy to bo named with
certainty. — G. H. 1, Anemone hortensis var.
stellata ; 2, Exacum affiue ; 3, next week.

Comhonicationb Received. — Lyle (with thanks). — P. C. P.—
S. W. (next week).— A. H. P.— G. B. M.— W. D. Roebuck.
-R. C. D.— W. W.-W. II. Y.-R. E. C— R. D.— Merry
wether.— A. C— J.R.— J. C— J. D.— E. C— L. S.— G. B. M.
— W. G. S.— H. d« Wilde.— 1). T. F.- J. Bagot— T. Simp.
son.— J. Milsom. — C. C. E.— II. O. E.— Anxious Reader.—
H. M.-F. I'. -11. T. Wood.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
Dr. A. Paterson (and wire).— Crozy aiue, a Hyeres,

May 20, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

309

THE

No. m.— SATURDAY, MAY 20, 1899.

AN OLD SCOTCH FLORIST.

" A BOUT the beginning of the eighteenth

-^*- century the best garden in Scotland
was that of J. Justice, at Crichton, near Edin-
burgh." So wrote Loudon ; but he was scarcely
correct. Because the fame of this celebrated
garden was unknown till the thirties, and it was
not until towards the end of his career, perhaps
twenty years later, that the reputation of the
garden was at its highest pitch. As in the case
of Shenstone, the love of Justice for gardening
was carried to such extreme lengths, that a
few years previous to his death (1702) he had
to dispose of his property and his collection of
plants. His father was a merchant in Edin-
burgh, and must have been possessed of no little
wealth. He, himself, was a lawyer, and held an
appointment as one of the principal Clerks of
Session, an office held later by Sir Walter Scott.
Justice is now most generally known as the
pioneer cultivator of the Pine-apple in Scot-
land, having in 1732 erected a pine-stove in
his garden at Crichton, and thero commenced
its cultivation, which soon spread over the
country. A plan of this structure appears in
his Scots' Gardener Director, and it is obvious
that, for the period, it was erected regardless
of expense.

The above-named work was first published in
1754, and it was the intention of the author
at first that it should have comprised all sec-
tions of gardening. He, however, found that
it would be inconvenient to do so, and merely
divided it into two parts, the first of which,
" Practical Instruction in Gardening," is con-
fined to the cultivation of fruit and vegetables,
and the second, "Anthology; or a Treatise of
the Culture of Flowers, and Practical Instruc-
tions given therein, being the result of Experi-
ments in Floristry, from 1720 to 1751." The first
part, though it was at one time highly esteemed,
is in reality the least interesting, because one
feels that much of the matter is largely subject
to conjecture on the part of the author. The
portion devoted to flowers, on the other hand,
is very largely original, and with the lapse of
years must become increasingly valuable as a
record of successful floriculture in the eighteenth
century.

Perhaps, next in time to The Scots1 Director,
the work entitled The British Gardeners'
Calendar, chiefly adapted to the climate of
North Britain, to which is added a Dissertation
on Forest Trees, woidd make its appearance.
It was published in 1759. Tin: British Gardi m rs'
Director was the last of Justice's effusions, and
is largely an extended Scuts Director. It
appeared in 1764.

Reverting to The Scots' Director, one is pleased
to find it the repository of exhaustive lists of
vegetables and flowers cultivated in Scotland
151) years ago. The 1721 edition of Reid's
Scots' Gardener, as well as that of 1760, no
doubt contains a limited number of flowers, ill
addition to those named in that of 1083. But

compared with the lists in the Director, they are
limited indeed. It is, however, not a little
curious that the Potato, though mentioned by
Reid, does not appear in the above. The
omission seems to emphasize the early dislike
exhibitod by the Scots to the noble tuber, the
reason for which may have been the same as
that of the Puritans, viz., the absence of any
mention of the esculent to be found in
Scripture !

Vegetables, as detailed in an inserted copy of
Patrick Drummond's Catalogue for 1754, were
numerous and well selected ; the gardener,
for example, having had to select from : twenty-
four sorts of Peas, twelve sorts of Lettuces,
eight kinds of Kidney Beans, ten sorts of
Cabbages, not including Savoys and Kales.

The "Pot-herbs" include Columbine, Vir-
ginian Tobacco, cultivated as a vulnerary ;
White Poppy, and Cardials Benedictus, the
last esteemed as a febrifuge. Evelyn mentions
how he sat covered with blankets, his legs in
a " deepe churne filled with hot milk, and
drinking carduus posset, then going to bed and
sweating." It worked a cure !

In the lists of hardy fruits, we find in addition
to many French and English Apples, such
decidedly Scotch varieties as the Grey, Yellow,
and Stoup Leedingtons, Fulwood, Gogar
Pippin, Potteraw Apple, and the French
"Orgillon," generally thought to be Scotch
under the names of Oslin and Arbroath Pippin.
Among Pears are Achan, Swan's Egg, Crawfurd,
Golden Knapp, Carnocks, and Lemon Pear.
Plums include " Hairsflaws, " a name I have
nowhere seen but here. We gather from the
text that hardy fruits were cultivated almost
entirely in "Orchyards," which Justice recom-
mends doing away with, and instead, growing
Apples, Pears, and Plums on dwarfing-stocks,
as espaliers in kitchen gardens. "Currans"
are recommended to be trained upon walls on
north aspects ; and the finer Apples — Golden
Pippin, Nonpareil, and ReinetteGris — on walls
for dessert.

It was, however, as a cultivator of flowers,
and particularly as an expert in bulb-culture,
that Justice excelled. He appears to have
cultivated what in his judgment were the most-
beautiful of all kinds of flowering bulbs, and
in order to thoroughly understand continental
methods of culture, he made two voyages to
Hollandand Flanders, and also travelled through
Italy. The result of his observations was the
adoption of Dutch methods, modified to suit the
climate of Scotland. Success, as he informs
us. beyond that achieved by foreign growers,
attended his efforts, and instead of imported
bulbs dwindling in size as was usual, they
increased from year to year, and produced
bettor spikes than he had ever elsewhere seen.
The soil he employed for Hyacinths was largely
composed of dung, or, in his own words, of
" four shares of old, well-rotted cow's dung,
one share of pure white sand, and one share of
peat."

In his opinion the soil near Leith was
eminently suited to produce bulbs of the best
quality, and he strongly advised florists to
undertake their propagation and growth in that
locality. The method of growing Hyacinths
from offsets is fully detailed, and that of
raising new varieties from seeds. The best
kinds to grow for seeding are also named,
which were all semi - doubles, though Hill
(Eilcn, 1759) recommends a single variety called
Zuinbul for this purpose. Justice was fully
convinced, as the results of his own observation
and experiments, that new varieties could be

originated in Scotland, and old varieties multi-
plied as successfully as in Holland, and
the necessity of annually purchasing from
the foreigner a supply of flowering roots of
Hyacinths, Tulips, and Narcissus obviated.
But it cannot be concealed that a Hyacinth
in 1754, was a different flower from that of
to-day. The finest spike he was ever able to
produce was composed of thirty-eight bells, and
he considered that number extraordinary.
Varieties engraved in Hill's Eden had only a
few bells on each, and as late as 1807 a plate by
Sydenham Edwards of a group of Hyacinths,
shows that the advance had been inconsiderable
at that date. Raising good seedlings, it will
therefore appear, was not so very difficult.

In addition to a long list of named varieties
set down without remark, there is also a
descriptive list of the best single and double
varieties in the collections of the celebrated
firms of Voorhelms and Van Zompell. Of
single varieties sixty-two sorts are thus
described, and of double kinds eighty-six.
The finest of the former was La Reine des
Femmes, which produced, at Crichton, thirty-
four to thirty-eight bells, and was sold when
new at 50 guilders a root, " which is a great
price for a single Hyacinth." From Herma-
phrodite, a semi-double variety, he "raised
some very valuable double flowers." Justice
entertained no doubts as to which, single or
double, were best worth growing. The former
were esteemed for growing in " Water-glasses,"
but the latter were in a particular manner the
flowers of the florist. Gerard mentions both
double and single sorts, and there is, therefore,
good reason for thinking doubles to have been
the chief sorts cultivated for the better part of
three centuries. The money-value of double
sorts will appear from the following quotation,
while it also displays the descriptive powers of
our author : —

" Konig Solomon is one of the grandest and
prettiest flowers which has ever appeared
amongst the Hyacinth tribes, and it may well
be named King Solomon, as it may justly vie
with that great Prince in the prime of all his
glory. This hath a high and bold strong stem,
adorned with a great Number of vast, large,
strong, succulent, spicy-smelled, erect, and
admirably well-reflected Bells, which attract
the Eyes, and inspire Joy to the Beholder, and
display a large Heart most admirably enamelled
with carnation, white, yellow, and bright green
Colours, it has a noble Spike, and is a late
Blower ; at its first appearance it was sold for
0( II I Gilders per Root." That is, £51 5s. ;
Gloria Mundi sold for 500 guilders, but common
sorts were inexpensive.

He also cultivated a large collection of Tulips,
in which " Semper Augustus " of Tulipomania
fame appears. For want of time he did not
attempt to raise seedling Tulips. One of his
favourite flowers Was Polyanthus Narcissus,
among which appear among others the names
of Soleil d'Or and Bazelman Major, sorts still
in commerce. He notes these as being well suited
for water-glass culture. Ranunculus and Ane-
mones were planted not only in the open ground
but also in pots. These were cultivated with
great zest at the period under review, and
Justice introduced numbers of seedlings. His
collection of these and some other plants seem
to have passed into the hands of Anderson &
White, nurserymen, whose collection of Ane-
mones in 17(i(i was said to be the finest in
Britain. Fritillarias, Irises, and Liliums were
also largely grown by Justice. His collection
of Primroses, and in particular of tiie Poly-

310

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

anthus Primrose, was large. Of the latter he
sowed the seeds in boxes of soil in June,
planted out the following March, and when
the plants flowered, he selected the best, and
preserved them only. He remarks, " Some
incomparable beauties happen often to reward
the trouble of sowing and cultivating them."
His collection was considered superior to any
in Great Britain.

For Auriculas also, Justice was deservedly
famous. The seed of Scotch Auriculas was
said at this period to have been exported to
Holland, and its produce imported to England.
At this time the quality of the individual
flowers was not so much considered as size
of truss. Justice allowed two trusses to re-
main and develop on his blooming plants. He
raised seedlings from seed sown directly it
was ripened and gathered. He cultivated
a few plants in the open ground, and potted
them up to flower. Frames, provided with
wooden shelves rising in tiers were used to
exhibit the plants when in bloom, and a portion
of the collection was cultivated in frames facing
north.

In addition to the flowers already mentioned,
other 400 sorts are more or less fully described
and culturally treated. For seven years he
tried to raise the double white Hepatica from
seed, but failed, " although," he says, "I raised
many singles and semi-doubles of various whites,
flesh, and carnation colours ; and will try again
for it, for I am told the florists in Holland have
obtained it from seeds." The double white
Hepatica is one of the mysteries of floriculture,
it having been recorded as existing by many old
authors, while others altogether deprecate its
having ever had an existence. With the Sweet
William he had a more gratifying experience,
for as he relates : — "In Anno 1740 I raised in
my garden a plant of the whole-podded double
Sweet William, of a colour finer than Fairchild's
Mule. These plants put into pots in a light
fresh soil, make a pretty appearance in the
windows or chimnies of rooms in summer."
His remarks on Carnations are very good, and
these he preferred to grow in pots, because " it
makes a better show to blow them in pots, and
upon a proper stage, than in the open ground."
From which it will appear that our author was
before everything a florist. Ii. J'. Brotherston,

The Bulb Garden.

CRINUM LATIFOLIUM.
This magnificent Crinum is just now in flower.
It has a flattened bulb, 8 inches in diameter, and a
dozen tapering, channeled leaves, each 3 feet long,
and 6 inches wide at the base. The peduncle is
3 feet high, and now bears an umbel of a dozen
almost sessile, fragrant flowers, each 10 inches
long, and consisting of a green, curved tube, and a
horizontal, cupped limb of equal length. The
perianth segments vary in width from 1 to 2 inches,
are recurved at the tips, and have a pale band of
red on' the outside, a very slight tint of this colour
being suffused throughout the whole flower. The
plant delights in an open, rich, and durable soil,
plenty of water, and a temperature during growth
of 00° P. The leaves being deciduous, the plant
may be rested in a temperature of 45° F. , and the
bulbs require but little or no water until the fol-
lowing spring. C. latifolium is an Asiatic species,
and is in no respect difficult to cultivate. By
shading the plants from strong suushine they may
be grown out-of-doors during the summer months.

HirPEASTEUM ORGANEKSE,

Like many other species of Hippeastrum, H.
orgaDense (Bot. Mag., t. 3803), has been crowded

from most gardens by the showy cross-bred varie-
ties. An example is now flowering here, from an
importation of last year, described by the importer
as having been found growing "in a sub-epiphytal
state on the bifurcated trunks of forest trees in
Brazil." It is characterised by having acute leaves,
I. \ foot long ; a peduncle as long as the leaves,
bearing two flowers with short green tubes. The
perianth segments are undulating, thin, and satiny,
light crimson above, bright green below, and are
united at the base by an ivory-white incurved
corona. The plant requires an open, rather loose
compost, as the roots ascend if they meet with
much obstruction. The temperature and shading
usually given to Cattleyas suits this plant.

Elisena longipetala.
This beautiful and rare bulbous plant produces
lorate, distichous leaves, a yard or more long, and
a flattened peduncle, 4 feet high, bearing seven pure
white flowers, each with a spreading limb, 9 inches
in diameter, the segments being narrow, undulating,
recurved, aud much twisted. The stamens and
styles are very conspicuous, and recurve at the
tips. The plant requires a temperature of 55° F. ,
when growing, with plenty of water, and shade
from strong sunshine. The bulbs may be dried off
gradually when growth has ceased, and the leaves
begin to turn yellow, withholding water altogether
from the beginning of the following winter until
growth recommences. E. longipetala may be pro-
pagated by offsets or by seed, both of which it pro-
duces very sparingly. The plant grows well in a
light sandy loam, enriched with leaf-soil, aud if
healthy, it should not be disturbed for several years.
The plant was figured in the Bot. Mag., t. 3S73.
G. B. J/., IslewortK.

KEW NOTES.

Maranta major, hort. — When a market-grower
gets hold of a useful decorative-plant that is new
to him, he gives it a name wliich fits it more or
less, and serves his purpose. This is what hap-
pened to the plant known in gardens as Maranta
major, which has been grown by London nursery-
men for at least six years, finding a ready sale for
furnishing purposes. It is described as a Maranta
of pleasing aspect and graceful habit, with tufted
leaves 2 to 3 feet high, composed of slender brown
petioles, and an oval blade 4 to 9 inches loug, of
different shades of green. It has the constitution
of an Aspidistra, enduring for a long time without
injury the dry atmosphere and changing tempera-
ture of the dwelling-house. This plant has been
grown at Kew for the last twenty years at least,
and its correct name is Ischuosiphon leucophoeus.
The genus Ischuosiphon is closely related to Maranta,
and consists of over a dozeu species of tall green-
leaved plants, with long, slender branching spikes
of sheathing bracts, and small uninteresting flowers.
All the species are natives of tropical America,
I. leucophoeus being Brazilian.

Diantheka iixustrts.
Plauts of this pretty Acanthad, also called Por-
phyrocoma lauceolata, were exhibited under the
first-mentioned name by Messrs. F. Sander & Co.
at the meeting o! the Royal Horticultural Society
held on April IS. Although an old garden-plant, it
puzzled the Floral Committee, and it was only on
examples of it being forwarded to Kew, that it was
identified with the plant figured in the Botanical
Magazine, t. 1176(1845). It is there described as
"a truly charming plant, for the possession of
which we are indebted to Mr. Forkel, gardener to
His Majesty the King c.f the Belgians, at Brussels,
who sent it to us under the above name ; but, un-
fortunately, without any history, so as to leave us
in the dark as to its native country, or the author
of its very appropriate name {porphyroa, purple ;
and kome, head of hair), given in allusion to the
siugularly richly-coloured spikes of deep purple,
from within the scales of which the scarcely less
brightly - coloured bluish flowers appear. It
was exhibited in the Horticultural Society's

Rooms, and excited admiration from the beauty of
the blossoms, which oonsist in the dark purple
comb-like parts, half covering the Lamium-like
violet flowers." It grows to about a foot in height,
and has drooping lanceolate dark-green leaves. It
has been called Amphiscopia Pohliana, and is now
known to be a native of Brazil.

RlCHARDIA SUFFTJSA.

Except for the absence of grey spots from the
leaves, and the larger size of the spathe, I do not
see how the plant exhibited at the Drill Hall last
week under the first-mentioned name differs from
R. melanoleuca, figured in the Botanical Magazine,
t. 5765 (1869). This species is remarkable for its
wide, almost heart-shaped leaf-blade, the presence
of bristle-like hairs on the base of the leaf-stalk,
the comparative shallowness of the spathe, which
is cream-yellow, and open to the very base, thus
exposing the large irregular blotch of dark purple
at the base, and the short, erect spadix. It was
first introduced by Mr. William Bull, aud flowered
in his Chelsea nursery in 1S68. The absence of
spots on the leaves of the plant shown last week is
not of much significance, as everyone acquainted
with the plants of this genus knows. Thus, there
are green and spotted forms of R. Pentlandi and
R. Elliotiaua ; and I have seen a green-leaved
R. Rehmanui. R. aurata, of which a flower was
shown for comparison with the plant called suffusa,
is a form of R. hastata, which has very different
haves from R. melanoleuca. IT. llr.

The Rock Garden.

THE ROCK GARDEN AT LITTLE SILVER,
HIGH BIG KINGTON, NORTH DEVON.

The accompanying illustrations depict a portion
of a rock-garden which— on behalf of Messrs. R.
Veitch & Son, Exeter — I had the pleasure of
constructing about four years ago. Little Silver,
the property of Captain Barton, is situated on
a very con-picnous hill among picturesque sur-
roundings, within a dozen miles of Barnstaple.
The approach is by means of a rather steep
carriage drive, traversing a wood, but the summit
of the hill on which the house stands is only
scantily planted with trees, and affords there-
fore admirable views over many miles of the
charming valley of the river Taw, which latter can
be distinctly seen meandering through meadows,
rocks, and woodland.

In laying out the grounds, the abrupt slope near
the house was rather difficult to deal with. An
ordinary terrace-slope among natural surroundings
so bold aud excessively undulating would have been
quite out of place, and for this reason, chiefly, it
was suggested that the grounds adjoining the house
should be supported by apparently natural rock,
which would not only harmonise better with the
surrounding country but furnish an excellent home
for alpine plants. A quarry of suitable stone was
amoug the resources of the estate, from which it
was an easy matter to procure suitable materials,
consisting of stratified layers of hard shale, with
veins of chert aud ironstone.

A s'ope in front of the house was unavoidable,
but it was made of a character as hold and undu-
lating as possible, and varied here and there by
rocks occurring singly or in scattered masses,
having the appearance of having been forced
through the sward by volcanic agency. In the
steepest aud boldest portion of this slope the rocks,
too, were made to appear more imposing aud more
massive in character; and the first illustration
(fig. 114) gives au idea of a small cave in this part
of the work. This, especially on a hot .summer day,
forms a cosy retreat, with room to accommodate
about half-a-dozen persons, its coolness being added
to by a purling stream that issues from one of its
recesses, which, after disappearing below t lie floor
of the cave, forms a small pond as seen in the fore-
ground of the illustration. The cave is so arranged
as not to be dark in any part, and the large stones

May 20, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

311

forming the roof are at sbrne little distance from
the back wall, and admit sufficient light to enable
all kinds of Ferns, some species of Primula, and
groups of Ramondia pyrenaica to flourish at tho
back of the cave. There, too, Adiantum pedatum
expands its arching fronds to much advantage, and
mossy Saxifrages help to enliven the scene.

The pond referred to had, of course, to be formed
with cement, but of this every trace was carefully
concealed, partly by groups of rocks, and partly by
the sward dipping down to the level of the water.
The aquatics visible in the picture are Apono-
geton distachyon and Meuyanthes trifoliata. But
besides these a number of choice Water Lilies were

regina, several forms of Hemerocallis, besides other
moisture-loving plants.

The portion of the rock-garden immediately above
the cave shows, in the second illustration (fig. 115),
the exterior roof of the cave as seen from above.
It also shows how in parts the rocks, for the sake
of variety, have been interspersed with grassy
banks, studded with suitable plants. In the fore-
ground are batches of Genista scoparia var.
Androana, Fuchsia pumila, and Iceland Poppies in
variety.

Towards the middle of the picture are seen the
handsome corymbs of Anacampseros Borderi, whose
fleshy leaves and red Mowers remind one of Sedum

The whole rock-garden, from the fact of its being
not a continuous mass of stones, but very much
broken up by groups of plants or grassy banks,
appearB very much larger than it is in reality, and
as the plants are arranged not so much with a view
to immediate effect as to successive display of form
and colour, there is always something in bloom.

I cannot go into details about all the plants used,
but must be content with enumerating some of the
principal ones which have given the best results.
Among small plants I will mention Hutchiusia
alpiua, Primula viscosa, P. nivalis, P. villosa, P.
Auricula, P. intermedia, Edelweiss, Saxifraga Bur-
seriana, S. apiculata, S. oppositifolia, S. juni-

Flii. 114. — CAVE IN THE ROOK-GARDES AT LITTLE SILVER, HIGH BICKINGToN, siH'T.l DEVON. (SEE P. 310.)

(Constructed and photographed by F. W. Meyer.)

planted in spaces specially prepared for them, and
these afford excellent effects. Among the smaller
species used are Nymplr.va Laydeckeri rosea, N.
pygmiea alba, and the pale yellow-flowered N.
pygmrea helvola. The larger growing species of
Water Lilies are N. Marliacea carnea, N. II.
chromatella, and N. M. albida, The overffow from
the pond forms a streamlet that loses itself beneath
a rock. From the grassy banks bordering the
pond and streamlet, spriug colonies of moisture-
loving plauts, so arranged in this instance that the
roots have easy access to the water. Among such
plants, I may mention groups of German Iris and
Iris Kiempferi, the dark rose-eoloured Lythrum
Salicaria var. roseum superbum, Spira>a rivularis,
S. aatilboides, the tall and bold S. gigantea, S.
palmata, Osmunda rcgalis, Carex pendula, C,

macrophyllum ; and here are also bright masses of
Armaria maritima rosea, bright blue flowering Cam-
panulas, the pink Acautholimon glnmaceum, and
several colonies of Megasea purpurea, which, with
its large leathery leaves and rosy-purple flowers, is
particularly striking in appearance. Other bold
plants used are Yuccas, the graceful Hedysarum
multijugum, Centaurea moutana, in pink, white,
and blue varieties, and a collection of Helian-
themum in variety. This illustration also shows
rocky steps leading from the cave and the lower
portion of the ground to the higher level near the
house. The steps have been adorned with species
of Thyme, with Arenaria balearica, A. ca?spitosa,
Herniaria glabra, and other plauts of prostrate habit,
which in time will partly conceal them, and thus
afford a natural appearance.

perina, S. sancta, S. longifolia, Potentilla nitida,
Veronica telephiifolia, Achillea rupestris, various
Gentianas, Sedum spatulifolium, Androsace carnea,
A. lanuginosa, and many more. The plants just
enumerated are so placed, that they cannot
speedily be overrun by others to their injury.
Among medium-sized plants of this type, I may
mention Carlina acaulis, Dianthus arenarius, Hele-
nium pumilum, Heuchera sanguinea, Campanula
glomerata, C. dahurica, Zauschueria californica,
Dianthus superbus, Eryngium alpinum, Moriua
longifolia, Centranthus coccineus, Lysimachia Nuni-
mularia, Prunella grandirlora, &c.

Here I may also quote a few of the taller kinds
of perennials which were used partly in groups
and partly as single specimens, viz., Lychnis chal-
cedonica, Campanula persicifolia alba, Helenium

312

THE GABDENEBS' CHBONICLE.

[May 20, 1S99.

striatum, Echinops rnthenicus, Tritoma caulescens,
Doronicum excelsum, Papaver concolor, Delphinium
in variety, and many more.

That numbers of suitable " rock shrubs " were
also used goes -without saying, and among these
were the bright Alpen Rose (Rhododendron fer-
rugineum), bushes of Cytisus nigricans, Indigofera
Dosua, the Tree Ivy, Cotoneaster congesta, Erica
codonodes, other species of Erica, and Japanese
Maples.

Every part of the rock-garden is easily reached,
either by a grass or gravel-path, or by rocky steps,
very naturally contrived. For the pond and also
for the roof of the cave the use of cement could not
be avoided, otherwise no cement or mortar has
been used in the construction. Where stones
adjoin each other it was thought desirable to fill
the crevices with soil and plants rather than with
cement or mortar, and mauy of the choicer Alpines,
if planted in suitable soil, succeed in such narrow
crevices better than anywhere else.

The whole of the plants are now well established
and in a flourishing condition. The illustrations
are from photographs which I took last summer.
F. W. Meyer, Elmside, Exeter.

THE MUSCAEI.

{Condwted from f. ^v2.)
The Index Kt wensis enumerates some fifty-seven
species. In the Kew Hand-List of Herbaceous
Plants twenty-six species and varieties are given as
being grown in the Royal Gardens, Kew, at the
time of its compilation. There is not entire agree-
ment between these two works. Iu the former
M. atlanticum is referred to M. racqmosum ; while
in the Hand-List it is kept apart. Similarly, M.
macrocarpum is referred to M. moschatum in the
Lad, x, but in the Hand-List it appears as a species.
M. Maweanum is not mentioned iu the Index. M.
suaveolens is given in the latter as synonymous
with moschatum, but in the Hand-List it is a
separate species ; so is M. transsilvanicum in the
Hand-List, but in the Index it is referred to M.
botryoides. Where so much difference exists
between these authorities, it is to be expected that
the confusion in gardens aud nurseries is even
greater. One fears wc must be content to take the
uanies to some extent as they are. It will thus be
found better to speak of the various Muscaris one
has grown principally from a gardening point of
view, and without committing ourselves to the
correctness of the names.

M. botryoides, one of the best of our Grape-
Hyacinths, is much less frequently seen than it
should be ; and one is surprised to find that in
many districts it is not nearly so common as the
considerably duller M. racemosum. M. botryoides,
the sky-blue Grape-Hyacinth, is a lovely little
flower, with charmiug bright blue flowers, with
whitish margins round the orifices. Few flowers
are brighter in their time than this Muscari. The
flowers are arranged in a long cluster, which reaches
from G to 12 inches above the soil. The linear and
channelled leaves are erect. It comes from
Southern Europe, and may well be the one spoken
of by Buskin iu the words already quoted. There
is a very beautiful pale blue variety named M. b.
pallidum, which has long spikes of pretty flowers ;
a superior form of this is named grandiflorum.
There are two or more white varieties. One some-
times passes under the name of M. b. album com-
pact um. This has very small flowers, closely set
in a small, short cluster, and is inferior in beauty
to that known as M. b. album grandiflorum. This
has larger blooms and longer spikes. There is a
variety named M. b. carueum, which has whitish
flowers, faintly tinged with flesh-colour. Even-
tually from this we may obtain the coveted red
variety, unless it is obtained from the blue form.
M. botryoides has the fault of increasing too rapidly.
M. Heldreichi, the Greek Grape-Hyacinth, is an
exquisite little flower. It is not always obtainable
true to name, but I have had it both by way of
Italy aud Holland. It is said by some that it is

later than M. botryoides, but the contrary is the
case with me. Here it is the first of the true
Muscaris to bloom ; it is lighter in colour than the
typical M. botryoides, with more of white on the
flower and having larger blooms. M. Heldreichi
increases freely at the root, but I have not had
any seedlings, so far as I have seen, in the number
of years it has been in my garden ; it grows to
9 inches high in light soil.

The old M. racemosum looks dull and ineffective
when compared with the foregoing, ite deep blue
flowers, which have what is described as " the
odour of plums,'' being dull and wanting in bright-
ness. They are smaller also, and in a close cluster.
The leaves are spreading and nearly prostrate.
Very pleasing is M. r. carneum with pink blooms.
M. ueglectum is closely connected with M. race-
mosum, but is, in the writer's opinion, more hand-
some with its sweet-scented long raceme of deep
blue flowers. One finds these two do duty for each
other in some bulb-gardens. M. commutatum, a
Sicilian species, has blue flowers which pass off to
purple ; it is very pleasing in some of its stages
with its many-flowered racemes. M. suaveolens,
or what I have had for it, was not unlike M.
ueglectum, but with a stronger perfume.

My first acquaintance with M. atlanticum was
made iu the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens many
years ago, but it was some time before I had it.
It is of a dark, not yet dull, blue, aud has a fine,
compact raceme of flowers. I should hardly class
it— or at least the plant I have for it — with M.
racemosum. I appear to have lost M. armeniacnm
in the course of some garden alterations ; I know
that I had it, but it has now disappeared. It is a
lovely little Muscari, with fragrant flowers of
bright dark blue, with three yellow spots near the
mouth.

M. Szovitsianum is a very beautiful little Mus-
cari, with small flowers on a short raceme. The
flowers are of a light blue, of a shade near, but not
the same as, that of Heldreichi. It is of dwarf
habit, and comes into bloom rather early. M.
conicum is a lovely species, said, in the Dictionary
of Gardening, to come from the Campagna ; but,
according to the Keif Hand-List, its habitat is
"uncertain.'' Wherever it comes from, it is one
of the finest of our Grape-Hyacinths. It has been
called " Heavenly Blue" by one of our nurserymen,
and there is some excuse for the name, although it
strongly resembles some of those given to flowers
by pushful nurserymen among our kinsfolk across
the Atlantic. Under the name of M. Pinardi, I
had from a continental nursery a Muscari which,
despite its glowiug description, had no particular
merit .

When seen iu a mass, M. Maweanum is pretty,
but where there is so much resemblance among
members of the genus that it is hardly worth
having by those persons who desire flowers show-
ing some distinctness. M. Argaei, as I have had
it, appears to be the same as M. atlanticum, but I
think it should have smaller flowers, and a shorter
raceme. M. polyanthum, which is well spoken of-,
is here, but it is flowering for the first time this
year, and is not, at the time of writing, so far
advanced as to enable me to speak with any
confidence.

M. pallens I do not much care much for. It is
not pure enough to be called white, nor sufficiently
coloured to be pearl-blue. The racemes are com-
paratively few-flowered ; it comes from the Cau-
casus and the Crimea. From Broussa I received
what appears to beM. pallens, under the collector's
name of M. racemosum album. What I have as
M. Strangwaisii is a pretty little flower with
sharpish racemes, and of free-bloomiug habit.
Among those of this section of Muscaris whose
acquaintance I have yet to make are M. Lc-lievrii,
M. latifolium, aud a few more or less doubtful
species. Muscari comosum is more appreciated as
a curiosity than for its beauty ; it grows very
vigorously here, and usually causes some surprise
among people who see it for the first time, although
their remark of " queer-looking " is not very

flattering to its appearance. In a continental
catalogue one finds a considerable number of
varieties of M. comosum offered. Acquaintance
with the type does not induce me to add these to
my garden flowers. It is a singular flower with its
tasselled head. Its variety, M. comosum mons-
trosum, the feathered Hyacinth, is, however, both
singular aud ornamental, so that it is to be
regretted that one sees it so seldom now. Its
violet-blue flowers, of slender, frizzled filaments,
are quite unique among bulbous plants.

Only for a year or two after purchasing them
have I been able to bloom the Muscaris of the type
of M. moschatum. The typioal M. moschatum is
inconspicuous with its greenish-yellow flowers, but
the sweetness of their odour is some recompense for
the poor colour. Under the name of M. macro-
carpum I had a form with brighter flowers, but I
have been unable to ascertain whether this was
the true M. macrocarpum, or the variety of M.
moschatum named flavum. I have compared ex-
perience with a number of my friends who have
tried the Musk-scented Grape-Hyacinths. Un-
fortunately they seem no more fortunate iu blooming
it in successive years than the writer.

I am all too conscious of the shortcomings of
this account of the Muscaris. Only those who
have tried to work out the genus can appreciate
the obstacles in the way of a satisfactory notice.
This is, however, presented with the object of
endeavouring to draw some attention to a pretty,
but neglected, class of plants adapted to the orna-
ment of our gardens. S. Arnott, Carsetkorn, l>y
Dumfries, N.B.

HATFIELD PEIOKY, WITHAM.

Pleasantly situated in a beautifully wooded
park, 3J miles southward from Witham, and
within 1 mile of the picturesque village of Hatfield
Peverel, is Hatfield Priory, the property of C. W.
Parker, Esq. The several fine specimens of Cedrus
Libaui which luxuriate near to and in front of the
Priory, go to show the ancient date of the old
Priory. This building has been superseded by the
present edifice — a square house built iu the Georgian
style. The huge fan-like branches of the Cedars
reach to the lawn, aud the trunk of the largest oue
measures 23 feet in circumference. The grounds
opposite the south frout of the house slope sharply
from the terrace down to the fence dividing them
from the park. Here a series of flower-beds ou the
turf form a pretty design, though they might be
thought by some to be somewhat crowded. The
view from the flower-garden southward is extensive
aud diversified, and includes " Little Baddow,"a
favourite place for pic-nics, a short distance from
the river Chelmer. The woodland scenery west of
the house is satisfying. A grand shapely specimen
of the common Beech stands out boldly by itself
to the left, and within about 1(10 yards of the sheet of
water at this side of the Priory. There are also
numerous handsome specimens of the Ash, Oak,
Elm, Chestnut. Plane, Sycamore, in the park and
grounds. At the north side of the house, Mr. Parker
converted a border of large overgrown Rhododen-
drons into veritable trees, furnished with young
growth, and thick healthy-looking foliage, from the
ground up to a height of between 3 and i feet, by
skilful pruning. A fine Holly-hedge close by also
bears evidence of his ability to convert and shape
long-neglected and objectionable tree-growth into
objects of beauty. Those who built, or were
responsible for the building, of monasteries aud
priories, have one and all left evidence of their
great desire to enclose them with tall hedges and
trees, in order to ensure privacy. A large plant
of Magnolia grandiflora, trained over a wall on
the south-side of the Priory, with its large white
flowers and handsome green leaves, was very
effective. A nice plant of M. couspicua, similarly
trained, appeared to be trying its best to cover the
space allotted to it on the wrtll.

The church stands in the grounds of Hatfield
Priory, and a very pretty one it m. The family

May '20, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

313

have an entrance to it from the Priory itself ; and
on the velvety turf on either side the central walk,
some pretty designs are cut, a Maltese cross forming
the centre of the figure, that on one side being a fac-
simile of the design on the other side. These beds
at tho time of my visit (August 6) were very attrac-
tive, being filled with suitable flowering, foliage,
and subtropical plants. Beds filled with Black
Douglas Pelargoniums, and edged with the silvery-
leaved Flower-of-Spring Pelargoniums, showed off
to advantage. The Maltese Cross, with Trop.-eolum
Vesuvius, edged with Golden Feather, and patches
of blue Lobelia at each end, and " dot " plants of
Chamsepeuce diacantha was effective as a bit of

iu suitable places in the gardens, such as Alstrce-
merias, Delphiniums (iucludiug various and beau-
tiful shades of blue), Doronicum Harpur Crewe,
Kchinops Ritro, with its prickly heads of blue
flowers, Eryngium amethystinum, the silvery
Thistle - like foliage, surmounted by heads of
metallic-blue flowers, being very handsome and
telling in effect, Gaillardias of the grandiflora
type, &c.

The conditions iu the kitchen garden go to show
that grand crops of fruit, vegetables, and flowers
can be obtained even during a dry season like
that of last year, if the soil be kept moist.

Fruit-trees of the best kinds and varieties

A fine old tree of Louise Bonne of Jersey covers a
wall-space of 288 square feet, and on the lower
branches of this tree there have been engrafted
scions of Glou Morceau, Beurre Diel, and Bellissime
d'Hiver, with the result that the tree is furnished
with healthy, short-jointed wood, and in most
years plenty of fruit. I may here remark that this
and many other wall trees Mr. Kerry, the gardener
at this place, found with shoots crowded together,
and standing from 12 to 15 inches out from the
wall when he took charge of the gardens some
nine years ago. By a persistent and judicious
pruning year after year, he has succeeded in con-
verting the neglected, almost barren trees into

Fig. 115. — r.uvr of rock- garden, little silver, men bkkqtoton, south devon. (see p. 311.)

bedding -out. Begonias semperflorens was em-
ployed with good effect in the composition of these
beds. A ribbon border runuing parallel with the
south wall of the church, planted with sub-tropicals,
and Calceolaria amplexicaulis in the back row, and
Verbenas in the front, were attractive, as were
also Clematis Jackmanni, the variegated form of
Lonicera tlexuosa, and Jasminum officinale, trained
up the church wall. A wall formed the boundary
of this miniature and neatly-kept flower-garden on
the north side, clothed from bottom to top with
Euonymus radicaus variegatus, which formed a
striking contrast to the green, closely-eut grass and
the various shades of colour in the foliage and
flowering plants which occupied the bed in the
foreground.

Herbaceous plants are found in beds and borders

have been planted against walls, and on either
side of the walks within the last eight or nine
years, and the growth of these trees has been
guided by skilful hands ; and the trees were of
such Plums as Kirke's, Denniston's Superb, Coe's
Golden Drop, Green Gage, Peine Claude de Bavay,
Transparent Gage, and Victoria. The Peaches
and Nectarines succeed well on south walls,
and the trees were cleau in foliage and well
trained. A Black Hamburgh Vine on the same
wall is in fine condition, and bears in its season
a fine crop of fair-sized bunches, which usually
ripen well. Espaliers or horizontally - trained
Apples (young trees) of Irish Peach, Beauty
of Bath, Bibston Pippin, and Cox's Orango
bear good crops of large, clean-skinned fruit,
and Bibston Pippin comes especially fine and good.

shapely, fruitful ones. The old spurs having been
severely thinned out the first year, and those
retained trimmed into shape, young shoots per-
force pushed from the maiu horizontal branches,
these being duly pinched and pruned, formed spurs
and fruit-buds close to the branches, and the
remaining projecting spurs or branches were
removed altogether to make space for young ones.
A fine tree of the Brown Turkey Fig occupies a
south-eastern aspect between two buttresses of the
wall of the church, the shoots being allowed proper
space on the wall to develop, and at the same time
benefit by exposure to the sun's rays. A plantation
of Superlative Raspberries is well worth Beeing,
the canes being from 6 to 8 ft. high and very thick.
They bear heavy crops of extra large fruit, fine in
colour and flavour.

314

THE GAUDENEHS' C11B0NICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

The glasshouses consist of two vineries, a stove,
an orchard-house, a conservatory, a cool-house,
Melon and Cucumber pits and frames. The
crops of Madresfield Court, Black Hamburgh,
and Muscat of Alexandria Grapes were very
satisfactory. In the stove, well -grown plants of
Dendrobium uobile were observed ; and in the
conservatory and oool greenhouse were noticeable
several fine specimens of Campanula pyramidalis
alba, as well as the blue variety, having spikes of
well-developed Mowers, about 7 feet high : Habro-
thamuus elegans, trained up a back wall, was pro-
fusely (lowered ; tuberous-rooted Begonias and
Celosia pyramidalis coccinea and C. p. aurea
showed good culture, and made a nice display.

In conclusion, I may be allowed to say that Mr.
S. Kerry (who was a pupil of the late W. W.
Wildsmith, and the last man whom he assisted into
a head place) is an enthusiastic gardener, and he is
to be congratulated upon having employers who
take such great interest in their garden and in
gardening generally as Mr. and Mrs. Parker, to
whose kindness on the occasion of my visit I feel
indebted. H. W. W.

VAEIATION

Ma?iY years ago I had the pleasure of visiting a
high-class turning establishment in Loudon, and
seeing some of those wonderful compound lathes
by which the more complicated and varied designs
are worked out in hardwoods and ivory. In these
lathes, besides the ordinary revolving motion
imparted (o the article, the chucks holding it were
also capable of lateral perpendicular motion,
ranging from horizontal straight lines to perpen-
dicular ones through all grades of the oval, and
even through figures of eight. The cutting tools
were also actuated to perform independent motions
of their own, so that when brought into contact
with the faces or sides of the object operated on,
their eccentric cuts formed combinations with the
eccentric motiou of the object, the result being
patterns of marvellous complexity and perfection.
To attain these results, discs of metal were
attached to the apparatus, with holes in their
margin numbered from I to say 300, and the com-
binations were determined exactly by means of pegs
inserted into these holes in such numerical orders
as formed divisions without a remainder. A cut,
therefore, forming a figure of S, or a narrow oval,
could be made in a flat surfaoe either 300 times,
each one at a distance of l-300th from its neighbour,
constituting an extremely fine pattern ; or it might
be cut only 180, 90, 45, 120, 00, 30, 15, or, indeed,
as I have said, any number iuto which 360 can be
divided without a remainder, so that at a complete
turn of the disc the same starting hole is reached.
Clearly every alteration of number alters the
pattern, as does every change in the width of the
oval or figure of 8, aud further, so does every altera-
tion in the depth of the cut ; while if the cut face
be moved, at same time another set of changes is
worked in, and in fact an infinite variety is obtain-
able. Furthermore, it is obvious that symmetry
of pattern depends upon the numbers being cor-
rectly calculated, since if these do not count out
properly there is either a gap or an overlap when
the final cut is made. Finally, I was shown a
series of books filled with nothing but numbers,
each set of which represented an intricate pattern
which was bound to appear when the pegs were
adjusted to the controlling discs in accordance with
the figures.

Now, it has frequently occurred to me in study -
ng the phenomena of variation in plants, and
especially iu Ferns, that we have something akin
to this lathe business underlying the " sports," i.e.,
the abnormal forms, symmetrical and unsym-
metrical, constant and inconstant, of which such
an extraordinary number exist. We have not, of
course, to do with actual numbers, but we have to
do with complex workings within the cell, which
normally work out on certain definite lines known
as speoific or generic ones. Some forces pull one

way, some another, and in hybrids aud crosses this
conflict is accentuated. Two sets of numerical
discs, to adopt the parallel for the sake of the argu-
ment, are introduced into the machine, and if these
numbers harmonise, that is, count out without
remainders, we get a symmetrical and constant
cross or hybrid ; but if these do not, reversion or
imperfection of some sort is constantly occurring,
the equilibrium is unstable, and no amount of
selection from the offspring of such imperfect
plauts can make odd numbers even ones. On
the other hand, if the combination be a spe-
cially happy one. a perfect fit, so to speak, it
may be expected to persist, and breed true to
type. The molecular theory teaches us that
the atoms of everything, organic or inorganic,
are in a perpetual state of vibration, and we may
reasonably assume that every living plant has its
particular harmony established between the varied
elemental atoms composing it. Hybrids and crosses
iuvolve, therefore, complex combinations in which
harmony comes out as constancy, and discord
as inconstancy, precisely as exact and inexact
adjustments of the lathe aforesaid mean regular or
irregular work, that is, successes or failures. We
know, indeed, so little of the marvellous inner
workings of nature that at present we are but
groping in the dark with our experiments and
studies, but it is quite conceivable that a fuller
knowledge would enable a mathematician to calcu-
late to a nicety what the result of a cross would be
by calculation of the potencies of each parent. This,
however, we predict will require a long string of
Victorian eras of progress to bring about, aud
meanwhile we can only work hard, experiment
freely, and glean as much as we can from the
results obtained. C/ias. T.Druery, F.L.S., V.M.ll.

THE FEU1T-TEEE BAEK-BEETLE.

(SCOLYTUS RUGULOSUS, RaTZ.)

On May 10, 189S, Prof. E. A. Popenoe wrote from
Topeka, Kans., that in a search for trees attacked
by this species in different portions of Kansas,
many rows of trees were examined, aud in nearly
every tree affected the top was blighted, or a stump
remained whence a blighted branch had been cut.
Beetles were also uoticed in Pear-trees whose leaves
were coloured so as to indicate ill-health, aud were
found to be also diseased at the root below the
budding point. Many of the diseased trees showed
the beetles just beginning work, precluding the
possibility of the appearance of disease resulting
from the beetle attack. The conclusion was reached
that the diseased trees were preferred by the
Scolytus as a place of ovipositiou. In a few trees,
however, the beetles were found at work where
there was no sign whatever of ill-health in the
tree attacked, thus corroborating statements of like
nature previously made by the writer.

Mr. Ernest Walker, of Clemson College, S. C,
wrote on May IS that this species was doing
damage on Prunus Simoni, and Japanese Plums.

Mr. J. C. Andrus, Manchester, Scott County,
III., stated in a letter dated May 15 that in his
experience this species attacks Mountain Ash and
Juneberry ( Amelanchier canadensis), both new food-
plants for this country, and the latter unrecorded.

In response to inquiry in regard to remedies, Mr.
C. C. Beals, of New London, Howard County, Ind. ,
wrote under date of August 23, that this insect
made its appearance at that place about the middle
of July, peppering the bark of the Cherry-trees
with holes, and running about over the bark. In
two or three days after the first-noticed appearance,
a tree was sprayed with kerosene, but this had no
apparent effect. The kerosene was then rubbed
upon the trunk and larger branches, with the
result that all the beetles were killed. At the
time of writing, the tree was doing well. Writing
again on October '25, Mr. Beals stated that although
the kerosene killed the insects with which it came
in contact, the experiment was not an entire success,
for the reason that the smaller brauches and twigs
were not treated.

As still further corroboration of the statements
previously made, that this species will attack
healthy trees, the writer observed during the
season of 1898 in the same orchard mentioned in
the footnote on p.. 3 of the circular, a perfectly
healthy Apple-tree, which had been attacked
evidently several years previously, judging from the
nearly obsolete scars on the trunk. Specimens of
the beetle, dead in two or three of the burrows,
showed beyond doubt that this was the species
concerned, were it possible to mistake its work for
that of any other known Scolytid. The Apple-
tree had entirely recovered from attack.

The Peach-tree mentioned in the same footnote
as apparently perfectly sound except for the attack
of the beetles, was again attacked last fall, and will
be kept under observation, as it is probable that
it will not be able to survive more than one or two
years under the circumstances. The particular
place selected by the beetles for their principal
attack in 1897 showed the presence of "sun scald"
early in the succeeding summer. Later this space,
which was on the main part of the trunk, was
found to be badly infested with the Peach-borer
(Sannina exitiosa). Some of the smaller branches
had attracted another well-known borer of the
Peach, Phlivotribus liminaris, Harr., aud the tree
now shows the effect of attack, although no beetles
have yet bred from any except one dead branch.

The presence of this bark-beetle in trees infested
by the San Jose scale, as mentioned on page 2 of
the circular, was again noticed in the present year,
but Messrs. W. G-. Johnson aud F. M. Webster
have both informed me that this is unusual.

Chiropachys colon, Linn., the most abundant aud
destructive parasitic enemy of this bark-beetle, was
noticed abroad the past year as early as April 9.
Extracted froth, Bulletin No. 19, New Series, U. S.
Department of Agriculture, Division of Entomology.

Florists' Flowers.

»_. . -

AURICULAS AT BRACKNELL, BERKS.

Tiik centres of Auricula-culture change, and
somewhat rapidly. Slough at one time used to
furnish Auriculas that could hold their own against
all comers, but that is so no longer, though occa-
sionally a few superb alpines come from there.
Then Loxford Hall, aud Great Gearies, with Mr.
James Douglas, became important centres, Rev.
F. D. Horner coming occasionally from the North
to try conclusions with him. Then Reading, with
its band of enthusiastic amateur cultivators, became
an active ceutre, and yet at the last exhibition of
the National Auricula Society not a plant from
Reading so far as I know of was shown. Mr.
Douglas, who iu his time has raised several good
varieties, still grows at, and exhibits them success-
fully from Bookham, but not with the striking
success of a bygone time. Mr. C. Phillips, at
Bracknell, and Mr. W. Smith, at Bishop's Stortford,
appear to be rapidly coming into the front rank in
the near future, but a probable important point of
Auricula cultivation will be Bracknell.

Mr. Phillips, though retaining his position as
the manager of a local bank, has embarked in
business at Bracknell, and taken as a partner Mr.
James R. Taylor, who was for seven years gardener
to H. R. H. The Duke of Conuaught, at Bagshot
Park. So far, the nursery, if such a term may be
applied to such a restricted space, consists of three
glass-houses, one devoted in spring to Auriculas,
and the other two to Carnations. These will be
the leading specialties, Mr. Phillips having suc-
ceeded in getting together a remarkably good
collection of Auriculas, and he is particularly
successful iu their cultivation. The open, breezy
country side of Bracknell appears to afford the
plants just the conditions of healthy development
they require.

At the time of my visit the collection was in
good bloom. A broad span-roofed house, with a
stage on either side, was full of show aud alpine
varieties, one stage being filled with the former and

May 20, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

315

the other with the latter forms. Of green edges,
Mrs. Hen wood was 6een to the best advantage ; it
is a flower of Hue proportions, raised by the late
Samuel Barlow, producing a stont stem and a bold
truss of excellent pips, and it is also a vigorous
grower. Like Simonite's Rev. F. D. Horner, it is
a certain exhibition variety, and these two being so
constant, are likely to stand at the head of the
green- edged section for some years to come. Abbe
Lizst is a very bright variety, of good habit, but
rather open in the tube ; it is still scarce, aud being
so, is perhaps somewhat severely divided in order
to procure stock ; there is great promise of useful-
ness before it. Horner's Monarch, shown as a
seedling in very fine character, appears to be quite
unreliable, coming confused, and even semi-double ;
it has a good tube, paste, and body colour ; time
may correct these floral vagaries. The fine old
Prince of Greens, up to a few years ago our leading
green edge, increases but very slowly in the south,
and will therefore bo always scarce and dear ; it
seems to do best in its northern home. Lovely Ann
was to be seen here with its bright green edge ; also
Simonite's new green edge, James Haunaford, with
a very few older varieties.

to be depended upon, and it will perpetuate the
memory of its raiser, Woodhead, for many years to
come. At times it is almost a "white edge ;" it
has a rare body colour, and good petal. Eachel, by
the same raiser, is very like it, but is not so strong
in the tube or so compact in the truss, and is liable
to rot at the tap-root. Marmion is mostly a "white
edge," and is, perhaps, one of the best Auriculas
Mr. Douglas has raised, but the pips do not expand
kindly.

Acme is the most useful "white edge," because
so constant, having also such a rich tube, and hand-
somely-mealed foliage. It is the only flower raised
by Mr. John Read which remains in cultivation ;
as it throws oll'sets very freely, it is both plentiful
and cheap. Conservative (Douglas) comes uear to
it, but the foliage has little or no meal. Other
good white edges are Walker's John Simonite,
Woodhead's Mrs. Dodwell, Simonite's Heather
Bell, and Mellor's Reliance.

Mr. Phillips confines himself to but few selfs ;
one of the most useful is Woodhead's Black Bess.
Horner's Heroine is not so good at Bracknell, and
it is apt to come shaded on the edge ; yet culti-
vators and exhibitors will always be grateful to

Flti. 118. — ODOJITOGLOSSUM CORADINEI i WEST HANK HOUSE VARIETY.

Ground colour lemon-yellow, with brown blotches and red.brown dots,

Of grey edges, George Lightbody, raised and
named by his old friend Richard Headley, and
Richard Headley raised and named by George
Lightbody — a touching memento of the warm
friendship which existed between these two men
until death severed it — stand at the top of the
section. Both are superb varieties, but R. Headley
is late. When at its best, as I saw it at Bracknell,
it is rich, striking, superb ; the leaves of this
variety are freely mealed on the edges. Headley 's
Alderman Wisbey, though classed with the green
edges, was here, as is sometimes the case, a capital
grey edge. Dinham, raised by the late Mr. R.
Kyrke-Peuson, is a capital flower when caught in
good character ; it lacks refinement, which will
doubtless come with culture. Old Robin Lan-
cashire's Hero, which is now kuown as Lancashire
Hero, was also in good form, and considering it has
been in cultivation more than half a century, holds
its own among the peers of the grey edged section.
Dr. Kidd (Douglas) was in good character; and
also William Broekbank, with its glorious golden
tube and dense white paste, but with the unfortu-
nate tendency on the part of the pip to recurve on
the edges. George Eudd, Marmion, Rachel (at
times an excellent white edge), and Mabel, all good
varieties, are also in the collection. George Rudd is
a most useful "grey edge," as it is a variety always

Mr. Horner for this variety, for it gave them a
model of form in self Auriculas — when at its best,
it stands at the top of its class. Barlow's Mrs.
Potts is a self flower of almost perfect finish as a
blue self, but it has a weak tube in common with
the blue selfs, and a weak flower-stalk, while its
growth of leaves is tall aud ungainly. Ruby
(Simonite), is a bright red self, a great improve-
ment upon Lord of Lome, having a finer pip,
stronger tube, handsome mealed foliage, and is a
great acquisition. Mr. Phillips has himself raised
two fine dark selfs, one, Miss Barnett, is already
in commerce ; it is of a rich claret colour, tube,
paste, and shape, all remarkably good ; and Mrs.
Phillips, maroon-crimson, a companion flower in
point of general good qualities. The fine yellow
self Buttercup (Horner) is also in the collection;
aud one very similar, raised by Mr. Phillips.

It is as a raiser of alpine varieties in particular
that Mr. Phillips has made his mark, and he has
probably raised and named as many as fifty, with
finely-shaped smooth pips. Of golden centres his
best varieties are May, Evelyn Phillips, Mrs.
Martin Smith, Chastity, Mrs. Gorton, Saturn (very
bright), A. R. Brown, Little Gem, Topsy (a brilliant
variety), Dreadnought, Dr. Jameson, Regina, Cas-
sandra (extra fine), Miranda, Mira (a superb variety ),
and Princess Louise. White centres : Perfection,

with its exquisitely-shaped pip ; New Colour, very
distinct ; Gladys, aud Sister Mary. There is amplo
room for improvement in the white centres, and
Mr. Phillips is in a fair way to secure it.

There is also a general collection of Carnations
filling a large house, now that they are potted up
for blooming, including Malmaisons iu some sixteen
varieties, which are to be made a leading feature,
and winter-flowering sorts. A fine yellow-ground
Picotee, raised and named by Mr. Phillips as Lady
Clementine Walsh, is very early to bloom, aud a
robust grower. In addition, there are a consider-
able number of seedling Carnations in the open
ground.

Violets are to be a speoialty, and already a large
number are planted out. The leading double varie-
ties are Marie Louise, Lady Hume Campbell, aud
de Parme ; single varieties : Princess of Wales,
Princess Beatrice, The Czar, W. W. Astor,
California, &o.

A well-chosen collection of herbaceous plants is
already formed, and now ground is being broken
up by way of extension. A goodly number of
seedling Carnations of the best blood, 6rom spring,
sown seods, is also coming on for succession, li. D,

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

ODONTOGLOSSl'M x CORADINEI, WEST
BANK HOUSE VAR.

As with most Odoutoglossums, so in the repre-
sentatives of this natural hybrid between 0.
Lindleyanum and O. crispum, there is much
variation. The ordinary forms with their narrow
pale yellow segments, bearing a few brown blotches ,
being esteemed only superior to 0. Lindleyanum ;
while the remarkable varieties, which are however
very scarce, are fit to rank with 0. triumphans and
others of the showier section. Iu both good and
bad forms, the long straight column followed for the
greater portion of its length, by the basal part of
the labellum, is a characteristic showing the affinity
to O. Lindleyanum. The features of the indifferent
varieties are distinctly those of 0. Lindleyanum
modified by 0. crispum, while the good forms iu
their broader ovate - lanceolate outline, show O.
crispum changed and coloured by the influeuce of
0. Lindleyanum. Therefore we may conclude that
the cross has been effected both ways.

A flower of the handsomest variety I have yet
seen, and which, iu its good form and bright
colours, imitates O. triumphans, has been received
from J. Leemaun, Esq., West Bank House, Heaton
Mersey (gr., Mr. A. Edge), with whom it has
flowered among imported Odoutoglossums (fig. 116).
The sepal and petals are ovate-lanceolate, and nearly
equal in width. The ground eolour is lemon-yellow,
changing to nearly white towards the base. The
sepals each bear in the middle one large chestnut-
red blotch, about J inch in length, and one smaller
blotch towards the base, the margin having a chain
of small red-brown dots. The petals have the
large chestnut -red blotch on the outer half, the
lower parts and margin bearing clusters of small
red-brown spots. The tip of each segment is bright
yellow. The lip, which is showier than the ordinary
varieties, though of the usual form, has the blade,
except the apex, chestnut-red, the base cream-white
with red lines.

Colonial Notes,

TASMANIA.
A Correspondent in Launceston, Tasmania,
writes as follows : — " I may say that our harvest
has been very plenteous, but, sad to say, prices
are low, the prices offering for Wheat being under
2s. per bushel. There is a movement to try and
open up a trade with England, but I doubt of
its success. Our Apple crop has just come in, the
Britannia sailing last week with the first shipment
for England. Unfortunately, we have so many

316

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

pests to contend with, that any one blessed with a
garden or orchard has to be continually at work
spraying the foliage or bandaging the sterns of his
trees, in order to mitigate the nuisances to some
extent. We have just experienced a month of very hot
weather (rather exceptionally so, as the early part
of the summer was very cool) ; this was very ac-
ceptable, as the vegetable-fruits, Tomatos, &c,
were very backward, but the hot weather has
brought them along nicely." The above com-
munication was despatched last February. 0. M.

TETBATHECA I'lLOSA var. floribunda.
This is a much branched, compact, and heath-
like, glabrous, or hispid shrub, seldom exceeding
1 or 1% foot in height, flowers axillary red, pink,
and sometimes white. It is a native of the Mount
Lofty ranges, S. Australia. Amongst our nume-
rous species and varieties of Tetratheca, the above
described variety is by far the showiest. It is very
easy of culture. Seeds germinate very readily, and
it can easily be propagated from cuttings.
O. E. Menzel, Aldgate, S. Australia. [With this
came splendid specimens covered with flowers,
which retain their brilliant colour when dried.
The photograph sent, shows a well-grown plant
full of bloom in a large pot, but the outlines of the
flowers are too indistinct to enable us to reproduce
it. It would make a magnificent specimen plant
at an exhibition. Ed.j

DOWN HOUSE, BLANDFOED.

The seat of Sir W. H. S. Marriott, Bart., is
about two miles from the town, and is at all seasons
a place of considerable interest. The park and
grounds are extensive, and the size and general
appearance of the trees prove that the larger
number of them flourish, though the surface-soil on
many parts of the estate is scarcely more than
S inches deep. Beech, Lime, Elm, and Ash appear
good, and of Conifers there are many grand
specimens.

The glass-houses are numerous, and well fur-
nished with plants. SirW. Marriott is well known
to be a keen collector and good judge of Orchid.-;.
Many of these plants were disposed of some years
ago, and it was interesting to listen to the noble
proprietor and his gardener, Mr. W. Benny, as they
described to me specimens that had grown and
flowered here in days gone by.

The first house we entered was devoted to the
Odontoglossums. More light appeared to be given
the plants than is customary, and the purple
colouring of the bulbs and leaves would seem to indi-
cate that robustness followed this kind of treatment,
for the flowers were remarkable for their size and
vigour. In a case at the back of a portion of this
house, kept constantly moist, were large plants of
Todeas superba and pellucida, Trichomaues radicans,
and other filmy Ferns. Beudrobium Jamesianum
was represented by numerous fine plants. Odonto-
glossum coronarium is cultivated in baskets, but,
as in many other places, it does not flower very
freely.

In another house Cypripediums are cultivated
with much success, and in every house devoted to
Orchids it may be seen that the raising of seedlings
is carried out persisteutly, and with intelligence.

Dendrobium Phakenopsis is grown in quantity,
the bulbs of recent growth being even finer than
many of the imported ones. Lfelia cinnabarina and
Cattleya Skinneri grow close to Adiantum Farley-
ense, whilst over all is a large plant of Allamanda
Henderson i. The Cattleyas are cultivated very
successfully, and include specimeus of great interest.
In addition to the line collection of Orchids, there
are vineries, Peach-houses, Melou and Cucumber-
houses, all of which are managed with conspicuous
ability. The kitchen - garden is cropped fully
during the season.

The Pleasure Grounds.
There are trees of Cupressus Lawsoniana 40 feet
high, and Sequoia gigantea CO feet. Abies

Smithiana is a fine specimen ; Cedrus Deodara,
Taxodium sempervirens are well relieved with
clumps of Retiuospora plumosa aurea. An Abies
Pinsapo is just 50 feet high. A. Nordmanniana is
represented by many perfect specimens. The Yew
Maze is in capital condition ; Walnuts and noble
Beech trees and Oaks constantly come into view,
with Cupressus macrocarpa, Abies Douglasii,
immense Scotch Firs, and avenues of Limes. In
other parts were avenues of Hornbeam. Traveller.

The Week's Work.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetburv, Gloucester.

The Spring Garden. — Most of the spring-flower-
ing plants will now bave passed their best for the
season, and should be taken up and propagated by
various methods. The varieties of Polyauthus,
known as Bean's strain, are charming spriug bedders,
hardy, and very effective. The plants, when lifted,
should be divided into pieces with three crowns each,
and the flower-stems and seed-vessels pricked off,
and then be planted in rows on a partially shady
or north border. The Polyauthus succeeds in a
retentive soil, enriched with cow-manure. Seed of
these plants may now be sown in boxes, and placed
in a cold frame. When large enough prick them
out 6 inches apart in beds, and they will make ser-
viceable plants this year. All hardy species of
Primulas succeed wheu treated in this manner.

Daisies, which are also fine plants for spriug-
beddiug, are of easy culture, and form fine masses
of colour wheu thickly planted. The ordinary double
flowered crimson and white varieties are the lust for
bedding purposes. Only large clumps of Baisies
should be divided, as flowering greatly exhausts
the plants. These pieces should be planted in a
light, open, cool position, using good sandy loam
about the roots in planting them, and affording
shading from sunshine, and a sprinkling overhead
after sunset until established. Afford plenty of water
to the plants in dry weather. The variety Aucu-
bsefolia, which has spotted leaves, is not so effective
as a bedder as those Baisies which have green
leaves. Baisies may be raised from seed, which
should be sown during the present mouth.

Myosotis dissitiflora is an early-flowering Forget-
Me-Not that does well in the beds here, providing
young seedling plants are used. M. sylvatica is
also very effective, and the plant is more compact
than the first named. Both arc raised from seed,
and sown this month in the open border. M.
alpestris Victoria is a compact grower, but it is
quite a fortnight later in flowering than these. It
is propagated by division. All Myosotis succeed
in cool, moist ground, that is not made too rich.

Arahis albida, with variegated leaves, make a
pretty effect planted alternately with Myosotis.
A. lucida folia variegata is very effective as an
edging plant of miscellaneous beds, remaining bright
throughout the winter. Stachys lanata makes an
excellent bordering to Tulip-beds ; Alyssum saxatile
compactum is late in flowering, but it makes an
excellent edging to permanent beds, the variegated
variety keeping its colour best wheu planted in
poor soil. Violas are late in flowering this year,
and generally have to be removed in full beauty, to
make way for the other bedders. Aubrietias, too,
are late this year. They succeed best in a position
where they aro not disturbed yearly.

Beds. — As soon as the plants are lifted, dig the
soil deeply, leaving it in a rough state. After this
is done add some loamy soil which has been ex-
posed to the weather and is pulverised, and
sufficient leaf-mould, according to the requirements
of the plants which will be set out. Some beds
need only to be raked over to make them fit for
the reception of the summer floweriug plants.

Flowering Shrubs. — Forsythia suspensa should
now have the shoots that have flowered shortened,
leaving three to four buds, and allowing the
terminal shoots to grow and hang down. Growths
quite near the ground, and shaded by the upper
ones, are better cut away. Ribes, both single and
double-flowered varieties, should now be pruned,
cutting back the shoots that have flowered, and
afford a dressing of manure, or liberally apply

manure-water if any of the shrubs are weak.
Mahonia aquifolia, if cut back hard after flowering,
will push growths and beoome more decorative than
when it is allowed to grow unpruned and show the
leafless stems,

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq., Dropmore
Maidenhead.

Mulching. — Remembering the drought of the
past two or three years, the gardener will be exer-
cising caution if he carry out a system of mulching for
the Pear and Peach-trees growing on south and west
walls, and the bush-trees everywhere, as Apples,
Plums, and Apricots. This is the more necessary
in light soils, or where the subsoil is gravel, sand,
or rock. As a mulch for fruit-trees and bushes,
nothing is better than half-rotten manure from the
stables ; and if the surface-soil is very hard, it
should first be hoed over, or very slightly pointed
over with a digging-fork or " graft." Young trees
making strong growth will need no mulch ; or if it
be afforded, half-rotten bracken, or spent hotbed-
manure, will suffice. The suckers, which nearly
always arise from the roots, of the Plum-stocks
on which Peaches and Plums are worked, must be
carefully removed, by scraping away the soil, and
cutting them off close to the root.

American Blight (Schizoni urn lanigera). — This
woolly aphis chiefly confines its attacks to the Apple
in old orchards, and, as with most other insect pests,
dry, warm weather couduccs to rapid increase, means
should be taken forthwith to exterminate the
aphides ; they are mostly to be found on the stems
and older branches, where the crevices in the bark
abound. Au efficacious means of ridding a tree is
to scrub all infested parts with soft-soap or Gis-
hurst Compound, using about ."i oz. of either to
1 gallon of hot water, working it up to a lather,
and applying it with a moderately still' scrubbing-
brush. Syringing the trees with any of the
usual insecticides may also be practised, the
Quassia extract, in which soap is also dissolved,
being a good one for this purpose. The soapy
lather should be used on the old wood only.
Iu the winter season various remedies may be
safely applied, but at the present season less strong
insecticides can only be employed. . Heavy syring-
ing by means of the garden-engine and Quassia-
water does no harm to the young growth, aud it
certainly clears a tree of great numbers, and a
dressing of freshly-slaked lime applied to the
ground, aud a good trampling afterwards, will
finish off those washed off the tree. In bad attacks
the aphis may be found on the roots near the
surface, aud these should be laid bare, and the soil
drenched with soapsuds, returning the soil directly
afterwards. By this means great numbers aro
killed ; but the dressing ought to be repeated
thrice a year at fin- least.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fikldkr, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Caladiums. — If specimens of a large size are
wished for, the plants should be shifted into larger
flower-pots as soon as the roots have permeated the
soil of the previous potting iu every direction,
affording them a compost consisting of equal pro-
portions of libry turf, peat, and flaky leaf -soil, toge-
ther with a small quantity of dry cow-manure
which has been passed through a half-inch meshed
sieve, aud abundance of coarse sharp sand, the turf
aud peat being made use of in as lumpy a condition
as the extent of the shift will admit. A moist
atmosphere should be maintained about the plants,
but these should not be syringed overhead, as the
deposit from almost all kinds of water spoils the
appearance of the foliage. Shading should be
afforded only during very bright sunshine. [Somo
gardeners never shade these plants. Ed.]

Nerines. — These autumn-flowering bulbs are now
cutering the resting period, and will need only an
occasional application of water till the foliage dies
down, when no more should be afforded. In the
dry state the bulbs may be placed in a cold frame,
or upon a greenhouse shelf, exposed to the full sun-
shine until the autumn. If the plants are placed
in a frame the light may be removed during line
weather. The plants should be kept quite dry
until signs of starting into growth are apparent in
the autumn, at which time any repotting that may
be necessary should be carried out.

May 20, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

817

Miscellaneous. — Let the points of Euphorbia jac-
quinia'tiora cuttings, wheu they have taken root
and began to grow, be pinched out once only, and
shift them into somewhat larger pots after they have
broken afresh. Also take the points out of Hibiscus
Manihot when the seedlings are 3 or 4 inches high.
Stop the shoots of Bouvardias, Manettia, Libonias,
Ixoras, Teeoma Smithi, &c, occasionally, to induce
a bushy habit. R,emoveall flower-buds, except the
terminal one, on Souvenir de la Malmaison Carna-
tions, if blooms of extra large size are required.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener :it Wrotham Park. Barnct.
Tomatos. — Let these plants be kept progressing,
and make the growth sturdy by affording them
ventilation in good amount, and do not deprive them
of root-space. At one time gardeners believed that
this plant fruited best when it was pot-bound and
starved ; but my experience has shown me that the
best results are »btained from plants that are well
treated from the first. The ground at the foot of the
walls against which Tomato plants will be planted
should be dug deeply, after dressing it with a fair
quantity of short, decayed stable-dung, lime-rubble,
and fresh soil, these additions being well mixed with
the staple, and the whole made very firm. Strong,
wellhardcued-off plants may now be put out in the
warmer parts of the country, some protection bring
afforded if frost threatens. In less forward parts
the end of the month will be early enough to
plant.

C< lery. — Those plants which were pricked oft"
some time ago will now bo tit for planting at 6 in.
apart, on a well-prepared border, the plants being
carefully handled. The nursery-bed should be ren-
dered tit for the reception of the plants by mixing
decayed manure or leaf-mould with the upper layer
of soil, and making a fine tilth, a small quantity
of soot being finally sprinkled over the surface.
Afford the beds good applications of water in
bright weather, and slightly shade them for a few
hours daily during the first week. The seedlings of
Leicester Red, a good late variety, being now large
enough, should be pricked out before they become
spindly and weak. Before taking them out of the
seed-bed, soak the latter with clear water, and also
the nursery-bed. If aphides infest the plants,
apply Quassia-water or soap-suds with a syringe.

Vegetables. — It is good practice to cut or remove
all sorts of vegetables required for the clay before
the sun gets powerful, as then the quality is finer,
especially so iu the case of Cauliflowers, Lettuce,
and Coleworts. If they are to be sent to a distance
by rail or other conveyance, it is very essential
that vegetables should not be allowed to wither from
exposure to wind or sun, but that they should be
placed in a cool, moist place till they are packed iu
the hampers. The coarser vegetables should be
collected first, and the liner ones at the last
moment. These may be laid out separately, and
sprinkled slightly with eleau water if the weather
is very hot. Vegetables to be sent by an early
train must be gathered the previous eveuiug, and
covered with a damp mat, the packing taking place
iu the morning. Asparagus, French Beans, herbs,
&c, should all be neatly tied up with bast in
bundles, and should be placed at the tops of the
hamper, with the edible tips of the first-named
made secure against bruising.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strugnell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Melons. — Periodical sowings in number accoading
to the demand and space for planting should lie made
fortnightly. The pit or house now occupied by the
eauly crop can be utilised for a late summer one,
sowing, and forwardiug plants in pots, so as to
have them strong by the time all the early fruits
are cut. New soil should be substituted for
the old before plauting out a new stock of plants.
The soil cannot iu reason be made too firm.
Some soils favour canker in the stem more than
others, not only giving a deal of trouble, but requir-
ing special treatment from the early stages onward.
Portland cement is an excellent antidote when canker
til present in the stem, rubbing it well into the
affected parts after they have been scraped with the
back of a pocket-knife. Plants in (lower, and
others approaching that stage, will need immediate
attention iu respect to the pollination of the female

blooms. Regulate the growth by pinching, so as to
obtain the required number of female blooms to open
at the same time. If large fruits are desired, liberal
feeding with liquid and artificial manures must be
given, but the utmost care should be exercised iu
regard to the quantity applied. Green and black-
fly can be kept under by syringing with insecticides,
quassia extract being particularly effectual and safe
in use ; or by fumigating.

Melons: later crops. — The fruits, if they have
attained the size of a cricket-ball, will need support,
and nets made expressly for the purpose are the best,
although a three-cornered or a square piece of
board suspended by small pieces of string are in
common use. To prevent the decay of the fruit, a
hole as big as a penny should be cut in the middle
of each piece, or the board may be hung so as to
slightly incline to one side, so as to get rid of the
moisture falling on it.

Ear/;/ Figs in Pots. — These trees will have been
affording ripe fruits, but the production will soon
cease, unless there are numerous trees. After a
crop is finished, the entire surface soil which can
be readily removed should lie taken away, and a
top-drcssiug applied of fresh loam, lime-rubble,
and a sprinkling of some artificial fruit-manure,
for the encouragement of root activity, and assisting
the development of a second crop of fruits, which
are now in an advanced stage. Diluted liquid-
manure may be applied twice or thrice each week,
if the pots are well tilled with roots. The
stopping of growths must be frequently attended to
so as to get the wood matured, and embryo Figs to
form. In regard to moisture, do not be misled by
the damp appearance of the top-dressing, whilst
the soil below it may be comparatively dry.

i<7;/.< Planted Out. — The fruits on such as were
started early will be approaching ripeness in some
instances, and syringing should be less frequent,
and a dryer atmosphere obtained by increasing the
ventilation of the house, and doing less damping
down. A thorough application of water should be
afforded the borders, if the trees are long-estab
lisbed ones, and the border is restricted in area.
This matter ought to receive attention before or
about the time of the final swelling of the fruit.
In the case of old trees, liquid-manure is of much
benefit to the present and to succeeding crops.
Figs are exempt from insect -pests, though some-
times scale aud red-spider infest the stems and
leaves. Sponging with soapy-water forms the best
remedy. Figs improve by being kept for a day or
two after gathering before being sent to table.
Trees iu cool houses should once a week have the
shoots stopped and regulated according to the
amount of wall-space, as crowding of shoots should
be carefully avoided. Large trees are the better
for being stopped at short intervals of time, as then
a succession of fruit is easily obtained. It is better
to stop often than to rob the trees of a great lot of
foliage at one or two operations, a method that
leads to fruit dropping. Those that have filled
the trellis, aud are fruited on the spur principle,
will require the minor laterals to be pinched back,
as they are made, to within one joint of the base,
the aim being the exposure to sunlight of every
leaf made, so that growth may become fruitful.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Youno, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wican,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Cypripediums concolor, Godefroyie, and niveum. —

Any plants of this difficult section of the Slipper
family that require to be re-potted or top-dressed
should be given attention at once, so that they may
have the whole of the season in which to make
what progress they will. These species may be
grown in pots or pans, but the latter should not
have any side perforations ; and instead of using
potsherds for drainage, substitute pieces of lime-
stone, old lime-mortar, or tufa. When re-potting,
hold the plant iu position, and work in the lime-
stone, mortar, or tufa amongst the roots to within
an inch of the rim, filling the remaining space with
a compost of one-third fibry loam, one of peat, and
one of sphagnum -moss. The base of the plant should
be raised well above the level of the pot. Subse-
quently the plants may be placed in a position near
the roof glass in the hottest house, where no water
from any source is likely to get into the growths.
The water necessary for the plants should be
supplied by dipping the pots to their rims, to
prevent a chance of water lodging in the axils of

the leaves. A moderate amouut of shade is
required by the plants during bright weather. The
chief danger lies in giving water too often during
the wiuter, and in the lodgment of water iu the
axils of the leaves.

6'. Godefroyce hucochilvm is more easy of culti-
vation in hot-house than others of the section. It
should be grown in pans of moderate depth, sus-
pended from the roof of a warm-house, and where
drip does not accumulate. An ordinary Orchid
compost, with crocks for drainago, is all thai the
plant requires. Afford water sparingly, and rather
more shade than is advised for the above-named
species.

O. bellatulum. — After repeated trials to grow C.
bellatulum in a high temperature, we now place
our plants in an intermediate-house, in which Mil-
touia vexillaria is grown, and judging by two years'
experience the result is satisfactory. When once
established, this species should not be disturbed
until absolutely necessary. Newly-imported plants
should be thoroughly washed, and then huug head
downwards for a week or so. Afterwards place
them in pans as advised for C. concolor, suspending
them in a moderately shady house with a tempera-
ture rauging between 58° to 63 . Established
plants may occasionally be re-surfaced, but as they
do not require much water, the soil keeps in a
good state for a long period of time. C. bellatulum
allium is grown here suspended under the central
ridge of a small C'attleya-house, aud, contrary to
most albiuos, it thrives better than the type.

C. bellatulum hybrids. — These hybrids are
freer-growing, and more easily cultivated in glass-
houses than are their parents. But it is necessary
to bear in mind the characteristics of the parents,
whether they thrive in a warm or intermediate
temperature, whether they are impatient of water
lodging in their growths, or require deuse or
moderate shade. Speaking generally, the hybrids
should be afforded a temperature of lV> to 70° ; the
light should not be very strong, nor the atmosphere
clammy, but it should be moist. The leaves are
very brittle, and must be handled with extreme
care,

// ndrobium Pltalamopsis, &c. — The various forms
of this beautiful speeios, with D. bigibbum, D.
Statleriauum, D. undulatum, I). Goldei, D. Lee-
anum, and others of this section, are now growing
freely, and need to be looked over frequently, so
that as soon as roots are seen emerging from the
base of the new growths, the necessary repotting
or surfacing may be done. These Dendrobiums
require all the light and heat of the East Indian-
house, and should only be shaded for a few hours
on very bright days. Plant them iu small pins,
using a very small quantity of peat aud sphagnum
moss. Wheu rooting freely, copious applications of
water are necessary, and the syringe should be used
amongst them morning aud afternoon if evaporation
be rapid.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.

Building up Slocks in Spring. -- It is not too
soon to begin preparing for the early honey
season, which is now close at hand. We have
already had encouraging reports of carefully-
atteuded-to hives being " full of bees and
brood," on the strength of which condition
more than one of our readers located in Kent
have already made up their minds to enter honey
of 1899 for the ''Royal" Show at Maidstone in
June next. It is certainly promising to hear, as
we did on the 20th ult., of hives found on inspec-
tion " with bees between every one of the ten
frames ; " but we fear this will be rather the excep-
tion than the rule. However, it is now quite time
to set about doing what we can to get the bees
forward by careful aud judicious feeding wherever
there is the slightest suspicion regarding scarcity
of stores. The incoming of food iu spring means
increase of brood in the hives, aud although we do
not advocate entire reliance on candy-feeding at this
season, personal experience has proved beyond doubt
that the judicious giving of a cake or two of soft candy
as a stimulative supplement to stores already in
the hives is the best of all methods of brood-
spreading, not only because of its increasing the
brood, but of a'-oiding the too frequent mischief
arising from parting frames of brood aud the insertion
of empty combs in their stead early in the season.

31S

THE GAB DENE US' CHRONICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c, but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

MONDAY,

WEDNESDAY,

FRIDAY,

WEDNESDAY, May 24-

THURSDAY, May 25

May 22— Bank Holiday.

{Linnean Society, Anniversary
Meeting.
Bath and West and Southern Coun-
ties Show at Exeter (5 days).
York Florists' Exhibition of Tulips,
&c.
May 20— Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

SALES.

Clearance Sale of 60,000 Bedding
and other Plants, at the High
Street Nurseries, Crawley, by
order of Mr. E. Y'etmsn, by Pro-
theroe & Morris.

Clearance Sale of Orchids, Stove
and Greenhouse Plants, at The
Gardens, Lower Cheam House,
Sutton, by orderof the Executors
of the late N. L. Antrobus, Esq.,
by Protheroe & Morris.

..,.„, ,, „,. I Imported and Established Orchids,

FRIDAY, May 2(>I at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms,

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period May 7 to May 13, 1899. Height above sea-
leVel 24 feet.

1

Temperature of

TURE OF THE

o

1S99.

§
IS

Soil at9 a.m.

OS

o

At 9 a.m.

■<

s

2

P.

9

OS oj

S3

a «

o

A

fc

T3

-o

T3

u&

H

<

O

43

ffi

W

•3

9

+=

,!i

CSI

i t

I3

a s

a

M

•U

%

+3

<

3

a

fcE

H

►j

deg.

deg. deg.

deg.

ins.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Sou. 7

E.N.E.

53-5

4b-l 01-f.

37-1

48-9

49-6

4S-9

28-1

Mon. 8

N.N.E.

59-551-864-2

42-6

50-5

49-8

489

36-0

Tues. 9

N.N.W.

49'7

49-5

58-5

46-9

52-5

50-5

4S-9

44-2

Wed. 10

N.N.W.

54-7

50-1

61-9

39-0

51-9

50-8

49-1

30-8

Thu. 11

N.N.W.

49-4

47'7

66-9

40-3

52- S

51-3

49-1

34-1

Fri. 12

S.S.W.

55-1

50-6 62-9

46-S

54-5

51-8

49-5

39-3

Sat. 13

s.s.w.

51'8

48-5J61-8

45-7

0-01
Tot.

54-5

52-3

49-7

38-5

Means..

f,3'l

49-2 02-5

42-6

0-01

522

50-6 49-2

35-9

Remarks

.—The weather has been dull and dry, with variable

cold wind

i. The only measurable quantity of rain which has

fallen this

mouth \

'as on the 13th.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 56T.

Actual Temperatures :—

London.— May 17 (12 p.m.): Max. 56° ; Min. 50'.
Provinces.— May 17 (6 p.m.) : Max, 02°, Ipswich ; Min.
48', Hebrides.

The unexpected death of Mal-
Malcolm Dunn. colm Dunn on Thursday, the

11th inst., at the age of 01 years,
which it was our painful duty to have to record
last week, as we were going to press, removes
from among us one of the most prominent, con-
scientious, and energetic of our gardeners, one
ever eager to give his aid in all matters con-
nected with gardening in its practical aspects,
or in its philanthropic connections.

He was in his usual health and vigour ou
Tuesday throughout the day, and it is thought
that he caught cold in returning from a meeting
in Dalkeith on Tuesday night. All that seems
certainly known is, that on Wednesday morning he
complained of feeling unwell, with acute internal
pain. His medical adviser was at once summoned,
and made several visits, remaining with him until

an early hour ou the following morning, when
Mr, Dunn passed away.

Mr. Dunn, it is generally supposed, was a native
of Crieff, being a son of a well-known coach-driver
in the town and district. He was educated at the
paris) . l.ool in Crieff, and commenced his horti-
cultural career by serving an apprenticeship in
Strathallan Gardens, Perthshire, with the late
Mr. Thomson. Subsequently, after removing
to England, lie was employed in Trentham
Gardens, Staffordshire ; and after spending some
time in Messrs. Veitch's nursery, Chelsea, he
was sent by the late Mr. Henderson, who was
gardener at Trentham at the time (18C0), to
be foreman under Mr. J. W. Miller, one of
the best Peach-growers of that day, and now gar-
dener at Kuxley Lodge, Esher. This was at
Eardiston House, the Beat of Sir William Smith,
Bart., Tenbury, Worcestershire. Leaving Mr.
Miller, Malcolm Dunn was engaged as foreman
at Sprotborough Hall, Yorkshire. In 1865 he was
appointed to take charge of the gardens at Powers-
eourt, Lord Powerscourt's estate in Wicklow,
then being improved and remodelled. Here Dunn,
in conjunction with another gardener, carried out
great alterations in the flower-garden and pleasure-
grounds, planting Conifers extensively.

Dunn, previously known as a practical gardener
of high repute, became more widely known by the
successful manner in which he combated the Phyl-
loxera vastatrix in the vineries of Lord Powers-
court. Complete and lengthened submersion of
the borders was the method adopted, and where
circumstances allow of its being done, it still
continues to be the most efficacious method.

After a stay of several years at Powerscourt,
he was engaged by the Duke of Buccleuch as
head gardener at Dalkeith Palace, in November,
1S71, in succession to Mr. William Thomson, late
of the Vineyard Nursery, Clovenfords, who had
resigned.

As the successor to such great gardeners as
McDonald, Charles McIntosh, and William
Thomson, it is sufficient praise to say that Mal-
colm Dunn sustained the high level of their
reputation at Dalkeith.

A considerable alteration that he effected at
Dalkeith was hardly completed before his death.
This was the substitution, by Messrs. Mackenzie
& Moncur, of three powerful tubular steel boilers
for about twenty smaller ones, that were required
to heat the glass-houses. In ordinary weather two
of these will be sufficient. The saving in labour
and fuel thus obtained is enormous. In fuel, for
instance, the quantity saved daily is three and a
half tons. The flues have been so constructed that
there is no draught beyond the boilers, and
consequently there is no waste.

As a landscape-gardener he possessed good taste,
and an eye which detected iu a moment the
smallest mistake. He had an extensive knowledge
of plants in regard to nomenclature, habits, and
habitat, and could advise what was best suited to
any given locality.

As a pomologist he had an extensive knowledge
of varieties ; and the correctness of the nursery
fruit catalogues of the present day is largely due
to his advice, and to the prominent part he took
in assisting at aud in the promotion of the several
fruit conferences of the last twenty-live years.

His labours in connection with tho Scottish
Arboricultural Society, of which he became a
member twenty-five years ago, were soon made
evident iu his strenuous efforts to make it a
powerful factor iu advancing the science of forestry,
formerly much neglected. He was au enthusiastic
supporter of the scheme for a Forestry School for
Scotland. Mr. Dunn took a leading part in the
establishment and successful carrying through of
the great forestry exhibition in Edinburgh iu 1S84,
and was always present at the excursions of the
Scottish Arboricultural Society, whether at home
or abroad. He was looking forward to a visit
to the great French exhibition, aud the French
woods and forests, in the year 1900.

He was on the Council of the Koyal Caledonian
Horticultural Society ; aud his services to the
Scottish Horticultural Association are well known.
The last - named Association was instituted in
Edinburgh in 1877, and Dunn filled the office of
President for the first five years.

To the Conifer Congress, held at Chiswick in the
autumn of 1S91, Dunn lent unstinted aid, collecting
statistics from Scottish sources not easily accessible
to others, aud himself supplying an extensive
collection of specimens. To him we also were
indebted for details concerning the many trees
planted by Her Majesty, and which were published
at the time of the second Jubileo festivities.

As regards his contributions to our columns, they
were more numerous than might bo thought — such
was his retiring disposition that he persistently
shrank from attaching his signature to his contri-
butions, and it was only rarely that we could
induce him to sign his name to his communications.
This reticence arose not only from natural modesty,
but from his earnest desire to be accurate even in
minor details. No matter whether a statemeut
was in all probability substantially true, if he could
not himself verify it, he would not lend his name
to it. This striving for accuracy made him a keen
but just, and never unkindly critic of others who
were, and are, compelled by circumstances, to
write under pressure.

Qualities such as these rendered him most valu-
able as a judge at exhibitions, and as a general
counsellor and adviser in matters horticultural.
His published communications in these columns
are relatively few in comparison to the critical
and wise counsels with which we were privately
favoured. One communication, which must have
been the last ever penned by him, appears in our
issue to-day. Indeed, to us his loss is a severe
one, as we have had occasion for inauy years to
value his assistance, and his conscientious impartial
judgments on men and things.

Mr. Dunn was elected a Veitch Medallist iu
1S96, when the other persons so recognised were
F. W. Burbidge, H. L. de Vilmorin, and Pro-
fessor Sargent ; and he was the recipient of the
Niel Prize in horticulture. His reputation as a
gardener led also to his nomination by the Royal
Horticultural Society as a Victoria Medallist. His
death forms the first break in the ranks of that
august body, and it will be by no means easy to
iill his place.

Mr. Dunn having never married, had fewer home
ties than most men, but his sympathies, time, and
moDey, were unreservedly given to horticulture.
His house was an open one to every gardener,
young or old, that sought his aid or advice, and
whether au applicant at Dalkeith was a mature
gardener or an apprentice, if he held proper and
sufficient testimonials, he was certain to obtain the
active help of Malcolm Dunn. Such invaluable
assistance, given in a variety of ways, was not
afforded without pecuniary loss to the deceased,
who was never the least concerned to save money,
aud who has probably died a comparatively poor
man.

Though emphatically a Scottish gardener of the
best type, his was no provincial patriotism. His
training and his experience had been gained in each
of the three kingdoms, and his sympathies were
wide in proportion. He extended the same aid and
support to the metropolitan organisations that he
did to those north of the Tweed, and was, perhaps,
almost as well known in London as in Ediuburgh,
which is saying a great deal. He took a warm
interest in the Gardeners' Orphan Fund, the Gar-
deners' Benevoleut Institution, and other garden
charities.

The deceased was interred at Dalkeith cemetery
on Saturday last in the presence of a large and
sympathetic gathering. An extraordinary coinci-
dence in connection with Mr, Dunn's death was
the decease of his stepmother upon the same day,
at King Street, Crieff. She was seventy-eight
years of age, and was observed to fall while walking
in her garden.

May 20, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

319

Yorkshire Naturalists' Union. — The

143rd meeting will be held at Dent, for the investi-
gation of the valley of the Dee, the northern slopes
of Whernside, Gragreth, Holme Fell, &o., on
Whit Monday, May 22, 1899. The Hon. Secretary,
W. Denison Roebuck, F.L.S., 259, Hyde Park

long, oblong-pointed, creamy-white. The inner
segments are broad and slightly notched.

Picotee has outer creamy-white segments, broad
at the base, and gradually tapering to an acute
point. The edges are marked by a very narrow
pinkish-line, which has suggested the name.

segments being 2$ inches long, oblong, rounded at
both ends ; inner segments of the same size and
form, and fawn-coloured flushed with pink, and
with a yellow blotch at the base— a peculiarly
beautiful flower.

Fairy Queen has the flower-segments nearly

Fiu. 117.— tea rose "suwbisb": colour coppery-red and yellow, (see p. 324.)

Road, Leeds, will furnish all particulars on
application.

A Bunch of Tulips.— Mr. W. B. Hartland,
of Cork, has sent us a bunch of Tulips of great
variety and purity of colour. Among them are
T. Didierivar. alba, with flower-segments 2| inches

Ixioides has segments tapering to both ends, and
of a canary-yellow colour with a deep purplish-
black blotch at the base.

Columbus has broadly oblong segments, tapering
to each end with a yellow ground, feathered and
flamed with crimson ; eye yellow.

Faxon has flowers of relatively small size, the

3 inches long, tapering to the base, rounded at the
apex ; yellow at the margins, pale lilac in the centre,
a curious combination, but nevertheless a beautiful
one from the softness and delicacy of the tints.

John Buskin is very similar, but the lilac tint is
more pronounced whilst the yellow is paler. But
for the flush of yellow the flower resembles in

320

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

PVUy 20, 1899,

colour that of Magnolia Soulangeana. There are
various others, some self-coloured orauge-crimson ;
others white, feathered and flamed with rosy-crim-
son, but unfortunately the labels were displaced,
and we fear to misname them.

Kind and Variety.— The following letter was
the last we received from Mr. Dunn. We received
it only a day or two before his death : " In the new
edition, or 1899 Code of Rules for Judging, issued
by the Royal Horticultural Society, there appears
under 'General Rules,' on p. 0, a lengthy definition
of the use of the words 'kind' and ' variety, ' for
exhibition purposes. The application of these
terms is shown by easily understood examples, and
when exhibitors know the correct meaning of
' kind ' and ' variety ' it will save much unseemly
wrangling at flower shows. All reasonable people
will cordially approve of this attempt to solve a
troublesome point ; but surely the Royal Horti-
cultural Society has been mixing its metaphors in
the following quotation, which appears in the
middle of paragraph 3. 'As a general rule, for
the purpose of exhibiting, all natural genera are
hinds, aud all variations within a genus are varie-
ties.' This clearly defines the terms 'genera' and
'kinds' to be synonymous '. and as 'all variations
within a genus,' according to this 'General Rule,'
are in future to be treated as 'varieties,' the
time-honoured terms of genera and species, hitherto
in vogue among practical horticulturists, as well as
botanical scientists, must, as a matter of course,
disappear from horticultural prize schedules. If
that is the intention it is hard to see where the
necessity arose for the invention of the new terms
and their use, in the sense of the words quoted
above, will not diminish the risk of misunderstand-
ings at horticultural exhibitions. Far better would
it be to retain the old and well-understood terms
of genus and species, and use the words 'kinds'
aud ' variety ' in the way they have hitherto been
employed, to distinguish the divisions aud sub-
divisions of a species. North Briton, May 6."

Rose Show and Congress of German
Rose Growers at Stutgard.— This important

eveut will tike place in the Concert Hall of Stut-
gard from June 16 to 18 next, the Congress being
held on the first day. Exhibition objects have to
be delivered not later than 10 p.m., June 15, and
cut blooms, bouquets, &c, on June 10, not later
than 8 a.m. We note a class in which twenty-four
varieties of some of our finest Roses are required
to be shown to the number of ten blooms, and these
furnished with long stalks.

The Flowering of Peaches, Nectarines,
and Apricots.— It is a matter of common remark
this year that the fruit-trees on south walls and in
glass-houses are not showing so much bloom as the
conditions prevailiug last autumn in this country
would warrant us in supposing would have been the
case. It is the opinion of many good gardeners
that this failure is to be traced to the excessive heat,
bright sunshine, and general lack of moisture cha-
racteristic of the summer and autumn of last year.
The same lack of bloom occurred in Lilac prepared
for forcing, as was uoticed recently in these pages.
The ill effects of weather conditions such as those
experienced in 1898 could be in great measure
averted by gardeners employing Bamboo or lath-
blinds, or even double and treble fish-netting over
the trees growing ou sunny aspects, letting them
down about 11 a.m. and taking them off about
2.30, and following out the practice on hot days
only during the mouths of August aud September.
In conjunction with this shading of the trees, the
borders should be kept in a fairly moist condition.

Spraying and Washing Hop-bine, Fruit-
trees, AND BUSHES.— A new and improved
system for washing Hop and fruit-trees from
blight and insect-pests has just beeu tested on
some large fruit plantations, with results entirely
satisfactory. It is one that has been introduced
by Messrs. Meruyweather & Sons, aud is an
advance upon anything that has yet been done

in this line. A portable steam pumping-engine of
the firm's well-known " Valiant" type is employed
to pump the specially-prepared wash from the
tank, and deliver it through lengths of iron pipe
or flexible hoso to several points, from which
brauches are taken, and suitable outlets and valves
provided. As many as twenty-four powerful jets
can be utilised at one time, and the blighted
foliage thoroughly aud cheaply cleansed. The first
trial took place at the establishment of Mr. Best,
Suckley, Worcester, and spray was thrown well
over the tops of Plum-trees more than 20 feet in
height. Mr. Best expressed himself as being quite
satisfied with the way in which the plant did its
work. The next trial was on the Toddingtou
Orchard Co.'s plantation, under the supervision of
Mr. C. D. Wise, the managing director, employing
an engine of similar size and power. Here the
wash was pumped through a pipe 500 yards in length
(the pipe was 1 [ iuch), up a rise of 150 feet, with
complete success. The application to Gooseberry-
bushes was also made, the spraying being effected
by a spreading nozzle. Mr. Wise and the other
gentlemen present expressed their appreciation of
the efficient manner iu which the engine did its
work. The third trial was held at Mr. Isaac
Header's plantations at Faddock Wood. Here
also all the tests were quite satisfactory, powerful
jets beiug delivered through 100(1 feet of piping.
Mr. Reader expressed his high approval of the
system, aud remarked that the plant was what had
been wanted for many years, aud that it was im-
possible to spray large trees by any other method.
The apparatus is readily" portable, two men being
well able to wheel the engine, boiler, and furnace
to any desired point. The engine can be made to
Berve as a lire engine, and by throwing the pump
out of gear it is available for driving farming or
other machinery, and altogether forms a very
valuable addition to any large plantation, com-
bining cheapness iu first cost with economy and
eliieieuey in working. Another important feature
is the arrangement of the suction-pipes so as to
draw its supply of water and chemical from separate
tanks in the required proportion.

The Edinburgh Seed Trade a Presenta-
tion.— A smoking concert was held ou the 12th
inst. iu the West End Cafe, 129, Princes Street,
under the presidency of M. Peter Drew, at which
Mr. Alexander Chalmers, the secretary for the
trade annual gathering, was presented, on the occa-
sion of his wedding, with a marble clock, aud a
massive gold albert, as a wedding gift ; also a geld
bracelet and brooch, set with diamonds and pearls,
for his affianced bride. These were accompanied by
an illuminated address, containing the names of all
the subscribers.

Presentation to Mr. J. Wallis.— A few
weeks ago we announced that the friends of Mr.
J. Wallis, who has recently left Keele Hall Gar-
dens, Staffordshire, after twenty years of service
there, determined to present him with a testimo-
nial as an expression of their esteem. The pre-
sentation was made on the 9th inst., and was
accompanied by a cheque. Mr. Wallis much
appreciates the kindness of his gardening friends
in this matter, but is unable to thank the sub-
scribers individually.

Metropolitan Parks and Open Spaces.

— At a meeting on Tuesday of the London County
Council, the report of the Parks and Open Spaces
Committee, recommending that £3000 should be
contributed towards the sum required for the pur-
chase of the Dollis Hill Estate for the use of the
public, was agreed to without a division. This
charming rural spot may be described as having
for years been the "Saturday to Monday
resort " of Mr. Gladstone. The place will
probably be named Gladstone Park, though pos-
sibly the old name would be in harmony with the
nature of the surroundings, and their association
with the illustrious statesman. It may be noted
that at the same meeting plans were approved for
a large addition to the industrial dwellings of the

metropolis iu this instance, on the Millbank estate,
near the Tate Gallery. It is to be hoped that some
space may be found for a little grass, with speci-
men trees, and seats. These would be greatly
appreciated by all who can value the moral aud
physical advantages of bright and roomy dwellings.

Ochtertyre Estate, Perthshire. — On
May 14 a presentation was made by the employe's
upon the Scottish estate to Mr. David Keath
Murray, who is leaving the district, aud retiring
from the position of factor. Mr. Murray is a
brother of the proprietor, Sir P. K. Murray.

The Lizard Orchid.— A valuable and nter-
esting floral discovery has been made by the
authorities at the Kent and Sussex Agricultural
College at Wye, near Ashford, Kent. For forty
years the Lizard Orchid has been lost to the British
flora, but it has been re-discovered on the Kentish
downs, where fifteen out of the twenty varieties of
British Orchids have been found. We greatly
regret that the Wye authorities have published the
fact.

A Charming Japanese Cherry.— We con-
gratulate Mr. Jas. H. Veitch upon the distinct
and beautiful variety of Cerasus Pseudo-l'erasus,
shown at the Meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society on Tuesday last. This plant, which Mr.
Veitcii fouud when visiting Japan a few years ago,
is said to come iuto bloom three weeks later thau
the variety Watered. It is very much deeper
coloured thau that variety, being a magenta shade
of pink, and the foliage is more effective from its
bronzy appearance. The plant will constitute
another decided acquisition to our hardy flowering
trees and shrubs.

Marriage of Mr. P. Jackman.— On May 11,
at Pyrford Church, Mr. Persy JaCKMAN was mar-
ried to Miss Blanche Shears; a large company
assembled at the church, and the costly aud
numerous presents bore testimony to the general
esteem in which both parties were held. Mr. P.
Jackman is the junior partner iu the well-known
Woking firm of nurserymen.

Warm Weather in the States. -On May 2,
summer weather, with the thermometer above the
eighties, had followed the recent Arctic spell. At
Buffalo it was still warmer, 90° in the shade. Of
course, vegetation has wonderfully advanced.
There is general lamentation regarding the scarcity
of Pansies, due to the severe frosts without snow.
One man, we read, planted 140,000 aud lost 80,000.

Chestnuts. — Our contemporary, American
Oardi niny, for April 22 last, contains an interesting
article by G. Harold Power, beiug the fourth in
a series upon Commercial Chestnut culture. It is
poiuted out that European and American varieties
derived from them will require immense improve-
ment before they are of much commercial value.
Alpha, a Japanese variety, sells sometimes for
12 dols. per bushel in the second week iu September.
A list of twenty-eight varieties, Japanese, European,
andselected, is given, together with short descriptive
notes.

Richmond Horticultural Society.— We

have received a schedule of prizes to be offered at
the Annual Show, which takes place in the Old Deer
Park on June 28. This is usually one of the best
of the suburban exhibitions, and wo have no doubt
the forthcoming display will lie equal to those that
have preceded it.

To Ascertain if a Soil Contains Lime.—
If a teaspoouful of soil be stirred into a glass of
water, to which a few drops of ammonia have been
added, and the whole set aside for some hours, the
liquid which remains at the top will be uearly
colourless ; but where lime and magnesia are
lacking in a soil, the liquid has usually a dark
brown or black appearance, the intensity of colour
depeuding upon the amount Off soil taken, aud, of
course, upon its ueed of lime.

May 20, 1899.]

THE GABDENERS' CHRONICLE.

321

South African Notes.

JOUBERT PARK, JOHANNESBURG.

When the writer first came here, Joubert Park
was a flat, ploughed field, 17 acres in extent, and
quite destitute of vegetation. Now, after six years
labour, in face of many difficulties — frosts,
droughts, Hoods, hail, locusts, and political troubles,
the place begins to wear a finished look. A hedge
of Cupressus macroearpa was first plauted right
round next the fence ; within this a shelter-belt of
Eucalyptus globulus aud E. viuiiualis. Acacias deal-

bretias, Arums, Sparaxis pendula, Iris Kaampferi,
and the old I. chinensis Phormium tenax, Tritomas
in variety, and Schizostylis coccinea, all of which
do remarkably well. Last winter we had a very
severe frost, water-taps in the open were burst, and
long icicles remained for several days hanging from
the upper basin, yet no losses were observed amongst
the above named plants. Pound the fouutain-
basin are four arches leading to the lawns ; a bed
of Tuberoses in the background. The arches are
plauted with Ipomcea peutaphylla, Physiantlms
alliens, Clematis brachiata, English Honeysuckle,
Solatium jasminoides, and Passiflora ccerulea, which
have formed a deuse covering.

Leichtlin's hybrid Tritomas, obtained from tho
generous raiser.

Two conservatories have been built, the smaller
is 45 feet long by 18 and 15 feet high, heated by
hotwater-pipes. A collection is grown of tropical
Palms, Ferns, a few Orchids and flowering stove-
plants. The larger house is 54 feet long by 24 feet
broad and 20 feet high, and contains a fair collection
of half hardy Tree-Ferns, Palms, and other plants
which cannot be trusted outside, as Bamboos,
Bougainvillea, Brugmansia, Cycads, Musa Ensete,
itc. The whole upkeep of the Park is borne solely
by the Town Council of Johannesburg, the annual
vote being about £2000, of which £500 is for the

FlC. 118.— LAKE IN THE PUBLIC PAKK, JOHANNESBURG. TRANSVAAL,

bata, melauoxylon and mollissima, and Pinus iusignis,
to break the fearful dust-storms. After these had
got up some 10 feet, Oaks, Cypress, Junipers,
Casuarinas. Thuias, and tender Eucalypti were
planted. All grew well, and within this much-
needed shelter the flower garden was laid out, aud
lawns laid down according to plan. A very large
and varied collection of flowers, flowering plants,
shrubs, and bulbs, was put out, not with uniform
success, since very many were quite new to the
country, and frost and drought proved too much
for some.

In the middle of the Park a large fountain was
erected three years ago, the base of which rests on
rusticated stone, aud the flat upper surface is decor-
ated with patterns tff black shale and white quartz
crushed small. The water edge is plauted with Mout-

On the lower side of the park, a small lake has
been formed (fig. 118), which is fed from the over-
flow of a fountaiu. The margins are planted
with Weeping Willow, Hedychium Gardneriauum,
Guuncra scabra, Coix lachryma, Criuum capense,
Osmunda regalis, aud small plants of Cyathea
Dregei, as well as Agapanthus umbellatus, Arundo
Douax, Lobelia cardinalis, and Gladiolus Papilio —
all doing very well. In the lake we have Apono-
getou distachyon, Nympluea ccerulea, and some
hardy hybrid Water-lilies flowering well. Nelum-
bium speciosum has been often raised from seed
and plauted out, but the young plants cannot with-
stand the first winter, tin an island iu the centre,
Pampas Grass, Caladium eseulentum, and Caunas,
do very well. In the foreground is a small island
with a tree of Taxodium distichum surrounded with

witer supplied by the Waterworks Company, at
the very high rate of 3s. G'/. per 1000 gallons.

Situated as this town is, in the middle of a huge
flat, treeless table-land — the High Veld — with no
natural beauty, as woods, rivers, or mountains
near, the Park is much frequented by the public
11. 11'. Adlam, Curator, Joubert Park, Johamu nburg,
March 9, 1899.

Home Correspondence.

THE LATE MR. M. DUNN, DALKEITH.— As a
friend of over thirty years standing, I should deem
it a privilege to publicly express my deep sense of
the loss all horticulturists and arboriculturists
alike have sustained by the demise of our dear

322

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

friend. The late Mr. Dunn was bora in the parish
of Crail, in Fifeshire, where his father was a
farmer. When comparatively young, his father
removed to the neighbourhood of Perth, where at
the parish school and academy he received his
education. Having shown a predilection for
horticulture, he was, at the age of fifteen,
apprenticed as a gardener with the late Mr.
Thomson, gardener at Strathallan Castle. On the
completion of his apprenticeship, and after some
time spent as journeyman, he moved south, and
was fortunate iu being admitted to the gardens at
Trentham, then under the late Mr. Fleming,
where he remained for some years, and where a
similarity of temperament and energy with his
roaster seemed to fully develop the latent enthu-

twenty-eight years that he was head gardener
to the Duke of Buccleuch, and as he occupied
what may be deemed the premier horticultural
appointment in Scotland, he well sustained
the traditions of that position. Having fol-
lowed such men as Macdonald, Mcintosh,
and Thomson, he worthily maintained the re-
putation of Dalkeith, and none of his talented pre-
decessors have done more for the advancement of
horticulture and kindred sciences than he has
done. Mr. Dunn as a practical gardener bad few
equals, and as a scientific gardener he took a pre-
mier place. His kuowledge of botany, and kindred
sciences, was extensive, and being possessed of a
wonderful memory, and being a voracious reader
he had the power of assimilating ad libitum every

Few who have had the privilege of attending the
annual excursions of The Royal Scottish Arbori-
cultural Society, will forget the care and foresight
with which they were arranged, nor the energy and
enthusiasm by which they were conducted by our
departed friend. To the young and inquiring forester
he was always ready to impart knowledge, and no
trouble was too great if it helped to cast a light on
any disputed question. As a patient preceptor to
the young, a faithful aud souud adviser to the old,
gardeners and foresters alike have lost a devoted
and disinterested friend, and cultural science
generally one of its brightest ornaments. In his
private relations Mr. Dunn was a steady, con-
sistent, and warm friend, sterlingly honest, a
determined enemy of humbug and sham. Yet,

siasm of his nature. On leaving Trentham, ho
was in several good gardening places in England,
notably at Sprotborough Hall, Doncaster, as
foreman, and eventually was appointed head
gardener at Erdiston, in Worcestershire. In 1805
he was appointed gardener to Viscount Powers-
court, at Powerscourt, co. Wicklow, where he
had full scope for the exercise of his skill and
energy in conducting extensive improvements in
the gardens and grounds of that princely residence.
The writer, having been appointed forester there
at exactly the same time, had the benefit and
pleasure of initiating a friendship with him
which continued through life. Six years' close
association with kindred tastes developed feelings
of the warmest friendship and respect. From
Powerscourt, Dunn was appointed, on the resig-
nation of the late Mr. W. Thomson, as gar-
dener at Dalkeith Palace in 1871. During the

kind of professional literature as it appeared.
With the science of forestry he was much identified ;
and having become a member of The Koyal Scottish
Arboricultural Society about twenty-five years ago,
he very soon made his usual energy felt, in making
it a powerful factor in promoting a science, before
too much neglected. As a promoter and one of the
executive committee of the first Forestry Exhibition
in Edinburgh, he did much to secure its success,
and yeoman's service in utilising it as a means
towards enlisting greater interest in forestry. As
oue of the committee of the Conifer Conference he
in no small degree contributed to the more ex-
tensive knowledge of this interesting family of
plants, and their merits, as timber trees, or other-
wise for this country. He was an enthusiastic
supporter of the establishment of a Forest School
for Scotland, and in the capacity of a vice-president
of the above society worked hard with this object.

while warm in his devotion to those he admired,
he would always excuse the errors of his less desir-
able friends, aud ho has left behind him few
enemies, aud many admiring and devoted friends,
who now, alas ! mourn his loss. 0. S. F.

TOM-TITS AS ENEMIES OF THE HORTICUL-
TURIST.— As this subject is attracting some amount
of attention at this moment, it is well to mention
that I alluded to it iu connection with Peas in pod
in this journal either in the year 1887 or 1890.
I was then staying with a friend, a well-known
entomologist, at his vicarage, not far from
Wincanton, in Somersetshire. His Teas had
suffered very much from the attacks of birds,
which he suspected — and rightly, as was proved —
were not sparrows. He noticed that the mischief
was always done in the early morning, and
determined to watch and find out the real

May 20, 1899.]

TME GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

323

depredators. So, concealing himself not far from
the Peas about 5 A.M., he had most undoubted
proof that two species of torn-tits were the culprits,
the worst in point of numbers being the marsh-tit.
I did not see them in the act, but I remarked that
the modus operandi of the tits was different to that
of sparrows. The latter tear and lacerate the pods
iu extracting the Peas ; the former go to work
much more neatly, and bore holes in the pods. It
might be thought that the tits were really in search
of the grub of the Pea-weevil, but both my friend
and myself were fully convinced it was not so, for
the Peas were to all intents and purposes free from
grubs. As a lover of birds, and having the greatest
respect for tits as horticulturist's benefactors, this
came somewhat as a shock, but there was no
getting away from the facts. It. McLacldan.

MANGO-TREE IN BLOOM.— I have a Mango-tree
in bloom in my conservatory, and supposing such an
occurrence a rare thing in England, I wish to make the
fact known. The fruit was brought home from India
about ten years ago, aud the seed planted. This is
the lirst time the tree has blossomed. It grows in
a cool conservatory, with just sulticient heat iu
winter afforded as will keep the frost out. Can
you tell me if the Mango has ever fruited iu
Englaud? [Yes, often. Ed.] L. Elizabeth Smith,
The Oaks, Emsworth, May 15.

GARDENING NOT HEALTHY.— It seems that
gardeners made iu Germany (p. 301) aro not
healthy ; but one's own personal experience, and
the meu we know and meet in the daily round, show
that it is not so in this country. To begin at home,
my own father was able to perform his duties as
head-gardener at the age of eighty-four ; and after
lie resigned he was doing a labourer's job at his
home, and taking a chill after getting overheated, it
turned to pneumonia, whicli caused his death at the
age of eighty-six. He was hale and hearty up to
that time ; and we have many hale and hearty
veterans in the ranks of British gardeners, aud
who, like my late father, take a keen interest in
all that relates to good gardening, and old age has
left them frosty, but kindly. From my obser-
vation, if a man is temperate in all things, I should
say that gardening in England is a very healthy
occupation. 11. M., Newbury.

THE VIOLA OF THE FUTURE.— Those wild
would set about raising a batch of extra-early
blooming bedding Violas should take stock of the
early-blooming section of beddiug Pansies, as these
have invariably been earlier to bloom than have
Violas proper, although the distinctions are com-
paratively small. The very earliest to flower is
Blue King, aud as an early blue-flowered bedder it
has never been excelled. Were such varieties as
True Blue, or others blue-tinted, crossed with
Blue King, possibly the desired strain might result.
Certainly much labour has been wasted by Viola-
raisers in producing mere fancy or show varieties,
all of which are summer-bloomers ; whilst the pro-
duction of very early bloomers has been greatly
neglected. We want these hardy bedding plants
now as badly as ever, for there seem to be so few
which are suitable to furnish carpets to bulbs that
bloom early, aud simultaneously with the bulbs.
The months when very early bloom is desired are
March and April. In the following month plenty
of plauts, and especially Violas, flower freely. I
do not advise as a " Florist " does, that old plants
put out iu October to bloom early should be trusted
to do so all the summer ; the result would be
unsatisfactory. No plants increase easier from
cuttings put out into a cold frame and near the
glass in September than do Violas ; and these
rooted cuttings will, in the spring, make the best
possible plauts put out in May to keep flowering for
several months. Then lifted in the autumn, the
beds manured and dug, the plants together with
bulbs replaced, the earliest bloom it is possible to
obtain with present varieties is produced. Still,
earlier-flowering forms are much needed. A.

THE PLANT COSTERS IN THE FARRINGDON
ROAD. — Anyone issuing from Farringdou Road
station, and walking along the Farringdon Road
to the Holborn Viaduct, will note that in the line
of costermonger's stalls those for the sale of plants
greatly outnumber any others. Another fact can
be noted, that more persons crowd about the plant-
stalls than any others. A coster's barrow, when
completely sot out, contains a multitude of things.
There are greenhouse plants in pots in large variety,
many kinds of hardy perennials, Carnations, Pinks,

Canterbury Bells and other Campanulas, Sweet
William, Columbine, and so on, and boxes of cut-
tings and seedlings of apparently almost every
plant that can make the garden gay in summer.
Some have Lilies in pots, others dry bulbs of L.
auratum. Every article is named and priced, and
on the whole, the naming is creditable. The pro-
viding of these plants for the costers, seen also in
so many other parts of London, must constitute a
great industry, and they must be produced and
sold cheaply to enable them to be offered at such
small prices by the dealers. One wonders what
becomes of the contents of the barrows by night,
for the clearing out of such a varied stock by sale
must occupy days. One of the most popular plants,
judging from the number offered for sale, is Nico-
tiana affinis, which is labelled the "Sweet-scented
Tobacco, " aud no doubt powerfully appeals to many
in consequence. The roots of many of the seedlings
in boxes must, one would think, sutler much
through the waterings necessary when exposed on
a barrow on a drying day, and probably the pro-
portion of those which survive transplantation is
small. Still, this widespread interest iu the
culture of plants is a feature that increases yearly,
and is an encouraging sign of the times, if, D.

Law Notes.

POISONED GRAIN ON LAND.

At the Oundle Petty Sessions, Northamptonshire,
recently, a farmer, was summoned for that he
did, between March 20 and April 2, 1890, lay, put,
and place, or cause to be laid, put, or placed,
poisoned grain on land at Warniington. Defendant
pleaded guilty. Mr. Batten appeared for the
prosecution. He said the Wheat was steeped iu
strychnine, and was strewed for a distance of about
130 yards on the top of the land. There was, lie
said, a rookery at Elton. This year sixty-seven
rooks, one pigeon, and a number of other birds had
been picked up poisoned. Defendant might have
some excuse, but he took tiio farm with a know-
ledge of the rookery at Elton.

After Mr. Knight, public analyst, had given
evidence, defendant informed the Bench that he
told Mr. Crisp he had laid this poisoned Wheat
to defend a crop of Oats, the seed for which cost
him 21». a bushel. He was prepared to swear that
he did not put down the poisoned Wheat until the
Sunday night after Good Friday. He only had a
half-piut ready for rats, and he used a tea-cupful
of it uear these Oats. Defendant added : I do
suffer a deal. I have known over 100 dozen rooks
to be shot at this rookery, and 50 dozen or more of
late years.

The Chairman said they fined defendant £7 and
£2 2s. Gil. costs, including the analyst's fee. The
act, he said, was of a very serious nature, for a poor
person might pick up a pigeon, take it homo, and
cook it. He (the Chairman) did not hold with the
killing of rooks ; they did as much good as harm.
The fine and costs amounted to £10 3& G(^. Agri-
cultural Gazette, Monday, May 15.

FRUIT GKOWING IN KENT.*

Having, glanced at the conditions that prevailed in the
past, we arrive at the year lSijit, when that period of agricul-
tural depression set in, which has been a great factor in

turning the minds of farmers and landowners to Bources of
revenue other than ordinary three or four course husbandly.
The gardening press had for some time been dinning into the
ears of the public that vast sums of money were leaving the
country for the purchase of such hardy fruits as could he
grown in Britain. The daily press caught the .same spirit,
whilst the agricultural papers took up the idea earnestly, hue
slowly. By degrees this idea became a fact, and those men
who went in boldly for fruit-culture at that time have made
fortunes ; and many labouring men, who had plenty of hard
work in them, began in a small way and extended on all sides
as they accumulated capital. There was another factor which
had to be reckoned with. The removal of the excise duties
from hops and malt had so depressed priees that orchards
were found to pay better on an average of years than Hops or

* Extracts from a paper by Mr. George Bunyard, Vice-
President of the Fruit Committee of the Royal Horticultural
Society, read before the Members of the Society of Arts on
Wednesday, May 10, 1899, Sir Owen Tudor Burne, O.C.I.E.,
K.C.S.I., in the chair.

Barley ; and fruit trees were introduced in the Hop-gardens in
order that when they reached a paying age the Hops might be
grubbed and the land laid to grass, as before the introduction
of foreign mutton and beef, live stock was as yet a safe invest,
ment for farmers. For, in a grass orchard, as an old hand
once remarked to me, "We get three crops: mutton, wool,
and fruit." The growth of soft fruit for the making of jam
and preserves, bottling, &c, which had hitherto been a local
business, now became a vast industry, and thousands of acres

"fI""" W Hand and thin arable lauds were adapted to the

culture of Strawberries and bush fruits iu the Swanley and
Cray districts of Kent. No small amount of their success in
those parts is doubtless owing to the cheap manure which
they procure from London, where the authorities very rightly
decline to have it store.l, and it i, this fertilising agent more
than the soii itself which has justly made the Swanley fruit a
name all over the kingdom.

Fruit-culture then began to be taken up as a serious business,
and every advantage of improved systems of cull
embraced. New kinds of fruits in each family were tested,
and their suitability for market, when once known, caused
them to be largely planted. The matter of pruning, which we
take to be the crux of the Kent system, was carefullj
developed, and it was found that very much finer examples
could he produced by severe pruning, while such fruit made
the highest priees. Timely pruning, gathering of the crop at
several pickings, with an extra top dressing of manure in
summer, gave results never dreamed of bet',, re. Growers were
not slow in following such evident sources of profit, while
tew and distant markets became available, as the Northern
and Western Railway agents eagerly competed for this traffic ;
and so it cam.' to pass that Strawberries (which are one of the
most perishable fruits) could be gathered at Swanley, and put
on rail to reach Glasgow and Edinburgh the same day in good
order.

My remarks in this division have hitherto referred more to
soft fruits (Currants, Raspberries, Cherries, and Strawberries),
hut attention was at the sane time given to Plums and
Apples and the hardier kinds of IVars, which Soon proved
themselves to pay handsomely for cultural care, while the
introduction of the Paradise stock for grafting Apples upon,

enabled growers to obtain crops from trees thr four years

old iii bush form. The fruit from such trees, by its proximity
to tin ground, and by the aid of reflected heat, possess! ,1 such
beauty, size, and appearance, that even in years when a glut

of fruit obtained, the Apple, from the Paradise ties made a

8 1 paying price. In fact it pays a farmer to plant the a

Inn, |e,u years' lease. Instead of the old tall orchard standard
trees, Plums planted as two year old trees, headed back low
for half standards, became the rage, and gave a crop the fourth
or fifth year, and by a combination of the plantation system
with top fruit, very large returns were secured from a small
A word as to the Paradise stock. It is a suite, .
looting Apple found in the central Asian mountains, and was
iiain.d Mains paradisica from its being discovered near the
Bupposed region Of the Garden of Eden. This variety, though
a weakling by itselr, gives great vigour to the Apple scions
and buds placed upon it, and cans.-s tile trees to produce fi lot

(as before stated) much earlier than trees raised on the Crab
Apple. Heavy crops are frequently obtained on two-year

trees and have to be thinned out. All the sorts of Paradise
Apples have this effect except tic narrow-leaved French
variety, which has such a restrictive action on the scion that
it fails to make a paying tree, and unfortunately this fact has
in the past caused the Apple trees "ii this stock to be con-
demned. Our best nurserymen are now well aware Of this,
and only use for stocks the broad-leaved varieties. Iu the
Royal Horticultural Society trials at Cbiswick, it was found
thai the Paradise Appli stocks that were not grafted gradu-
ally dwindled away, while those which had " taken," or been
worked, formed handsome and fertile trees, ft is by use of
these Paradise stocks that nurserymen are able to supply
examples iu many case3 capable of bearing fruit the first
season after transplanting, as this Paradise stock produces
such abundant surface-roots that the trees do not suffer on
removal.

There is yet another factor that has assisted the culture or
fruit iu the past thirty years, viz., the introduction of steam
for the purpose of clearing and deeply cultivating the soil, in
many cases quite equalling trenching. The good work done
by the Royal Horticultural Society through its publications,
conferences, and exhibitions, has conferred a great benefit on
the public by the introduction of novelties and the awarding
of medals and certificates to the most deserving kinds. The
gardening press has done loyal service in giving information,
and the lectures and practical demonstrations by the County
Council lecturers have brought home to the people the advan-
tage of culture, and the rational use of preventative mixtures
lot blights, insects, &c.

While not agreeing with the American system of spraying
with poisonous compounds (as Paris-green, and London-
purple)for orchards and plantations, having regard to their
dangerous character, yet the use of winter dressing of line,
soot, and soft soap, and sprays for insects when they appear
in spring or summer, is very desirable. Many of our best
growers spray as often as four times a year, both as a pret enta.
tive and a cure, but a free use of manure, clean cultivation,
and care to search regularly for insect blights in order to cure
such before they spread, will render drastic measures un-
necessary.

It would be well in this place to give the modus operandi iu
forming orchards and plantations as now practised by the best
Kent growers. If an orchard be desired on what is now grass
land, say Cherries, they are planted at 3ii feet apart in rows ; but
iu order to reap an earlier return, Plums are placed between the
Cherries at IS feet apart, as these commence to bear the

324

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

fourth or fifth year, whereas Cherries are some eight or ten
years before they pay to pick. In planting, the turf is
removed or dug in, and holes about 3 feet over and 1J feet
deep, are made to receive the trees, which, after planting, are
staked, and if cattle are allowed into the orchard they are
protected (cradled) with chestnut pales, made square or
triangular to keep the heads of the trees from the reach
of the cattle. The Plums are pruned back the first year, but
the Cherries are better not cut back until they have made a
year's growth. Care is taken to keep grass from rooting in
the 3 feet circle, as its presence and penetrating power would
otherwise absorb all the moisture necessary for the young
tree to establish itself. The orchard trees are summer and
winter pruned, and shaped, or balanced for five or six years,
until they are fitted to be grown on, with an occasional
thinning of the main boughs, and the ties which attach the
trees to the stakes are renewed also. In forming a planta-
tion, a field or stretch of ground which has been previously
prepared by a crop of Potatos, Peas, or Greens, is deeply
stirred, and the standard or half-standard trees are placed in
lines, say 15 feet apart, for Plums, small-growing Apples and
Pears, and IS to 24 feet for the larger kinds. These being
planted, give the pattern for the bush fruit, which will then
be introduced in long lines at (3 feet apart, so that horse-hoes
can be used to keep the land clean, all the trees of a kind
being planted in a block so that the fruit can be gathered at
one time. I strongly recommend that all new orchards be
raised in arable land, when for some years a handsome profit
can be made from intermediate vegetable crops, Wallflowers,
&c, the cultivation of which is of great benefit to orchard
trees. In the culture of Strawberries it is usual to plant
after some crop which has been highly manured. Tin:* plants
are set in spring, or, if favourable, in autumn. An acre
requires some 12,000 for a plant at 2 feet apart, 30 inches
from row to row. An improved plan now obtains of planting
on the square, as horse cultivation can then be used both
ways, and thus hand labour is saved.

Tlie Kent Cob Nut is very extensively grown in Kent,
where the largest-sized nuts are produced ; being a hardy
subject, not particular as to soil, many steep banks and stony
patches of land that will not grow better fruits are planted
with trees at 12 to 15 feet apart, and for some years until the
Cobs require all the ground, vegetable crops or bush fruits
are grown between them, which being highly manured help
the Nuts to form Iocs. They begin to crop the third year;
many old plantations are found with trees 100 years old, some
21 feet through, and not more than 6 feet high, as they are
severely pruned to keep tin trees in the form of an inverted

umbrella with about 9 to 12 main branches, all cars, w 1

being pruned away, as it is from the young spray that the
Nuts are produced. The female blossom appears in February,
and the male catkins or polliniferous flowers are best left on

(or at least a portion of them) until the Moss is set, say

March, before the winter pruning is carried out They are
also pruned in August, taking out the strong "wands"
which are used for packing, and flic top surplus growth is
then broken off. A good plantation will yield i ton to the
acre, but we have had two or three good years (1896-7-8) when
crops have reached to 2) tons. Prices varyfrom25s to 60s.
per mo lbs. Standard Apples and Plums an- often planted
over them, and this gives a larger return per acre, but Cobs
are best alone, though they succeed fairly well under trees.
Cob Nuts will also flourish in good ground (soil), but thai is
usually reserved for choice fruits and too gross growth is not
favourable to their cropping.

Insects.— To deal properly with the subject of injurious
insceis affecting fruit trees and bushes would require an
evening by itself, and I can only here suggest that adequate
manuring of the soil, burning all primings and rubbish n-
soon as collected, combined with a winter washing of lime,
soot, and suit soap on the older trees, will to a great extent
check insect images. Spring and summer spraying will be
necessary for red spider on Gooseberries, aphis in Plums and
Damsons, ami black aphis in Cherries as soon as any insects
:ue observed ; they arc readily seen, as the leaves curl on
being attacked. Special formulas are given in most fruit
books, but the safest remedy for spraying is soft soap and
quassia. Where wilder moth is prevalent orchard trees must
be grease-banded, care being taken to place a ring of grease.
proof paper on tic stems before greasing.
(To be continued.)

SOCI ETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Mav 16.— The meeting held on Tuesday last, in the Drill
Hall, James Street, Westminster, immediately precedes the
great Temple Show, and usually on such occasions the
exhibits are rather fewer than above the average. This is
partly true of the meeting under notice, for although the Hall
was moderately well furnished witli a miscellaneous collection
of plants and flowers, there was not the abundance so fre-
quently shown.

The Orchid Committee recommended the awards of two
First-class Certificates— one to a hybrid Phaius, P. x Phoebe
and the other to Odontoglossum Coradinei Mirabile. Also
five Awards of Merit, all of which were to varieties of
Odontoglossiims.

An unusual number of Medals were awarded by the Fi.or.il.

Committee, but of Awards to novelties this Committee r< no

mended two only. One of these was a First-class Certificate

to a charming variety of Cerasus, collected by Mr. Jas. H.
Veitch in Japan ; and an Award of Merit to a variety of
Lathyrus splendens, shown by the Director of the Royal
Gardens, Kew. Tulips were staged by Messrs. Barr & Sons,
Jas. Veitch & Sons, and Hogo & Robertson, Dublin, the
Irish collection again attracting much admiration. Tiie hardy
plant nurserymen contributed collections of plants in flower,
but they complained that these plants are very backward in
coming into bloom this season.

A fine specimen of Amherstia nobilis, from the Director of
the Royal Gardens, Kew, was an object of great attraction.

The Fruit Committee made no Awards to novelties, and
beyond some very line Strawberries, there were few exhibits.
The late Mr. Malcolm Dunn, having been a memoer of this
body for some years, a resolution was passed, regretting his
unexpected decease, and giving expression to the committee's
sense of the loss thus sustained. The lecture given in the
afternoon was by the Rev. Professor Henslow, who spoke in
an interesting manner upon some of the plants present in the
Hall. Previous to this there were fifty-four new Fellows
elected to the Society.

Floral Committee.

Present : Chas. E. Shea in the chair ; and Messrs. Jno.
Fraser, C. T. Drucry, H. B. May, R. Dean, John Jennings,
Jas. Hudson, J. F. McLeod, C. J. Salter, J. Fraser, James
Walker, J. H. Barr, J. D. Pawle, George Gordon, E. H. Jen-
kins, D. B. Crane, Herbert J. Cutbush, Ed. Beckett, E. T.
Cook, H. J. Jones, II. Turner, Geo. Paul, H. Selfe Leonard,
Geo. Nicholson, and Ed. Mawley.

Messrs. W. Path. & Son, Waltham Cross, Herts, made a
very large exhibit of Roses in pots, which included well,
flowered specimens of the extremely pale sulphur-tinted Tea
variety Enchantress (figured in the Gardeners' Chronicle,
Dec. 7, lso;,, ,i. 073, and July 30, 1898, p. SO). Mdlle. Eugenie
Vcrdier, Violet Bouyer, Corinna, Victor Verdier, Jeanne
Dickson, and Gloire de Margott in were some vaiicties repre-
sented. In boxes were cut blooms of some of the newer Teas
and hybrid Teas, as Empress Alexandra of Russia, Medea (a
very pretty yellow Tea) Corinna, &c. (Silver Flora Medal)

Malmaison Carnation var. Princess May was shown by Mr.
Chas. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, who contributed a
group of plants in :. and 6-inch pots, all of them nicely
flowered, and some of them showing the best shade of colour
(Bronze Banksian Medal).

Martin H. Smith., Hayes (gr., Mr. Blick), showed a rosy-
red-coloured Carnation named Lady Hermione, but the variety
gained no award.

Messrs. Kei.wav Si Son, Langport, Somerset, made a beau-
tiful display with flowers of Tree Pseonies, most, of them
single-flowered, but including a few doubles. Some of the
more choice were Countess Cadogan, white, marked prettily
with Rose; Countess Crewe, and Mr. Jessop Hulton, a pure
white one (Bronze Flora Medal).

Mr. H. I!. Mav, Dyson's Road Nursery, Upper Edmonton,
showed a group of Gymnogrammas, in the centre there being
iialf-a dozen intensely - coloured planls of G. grandiceps

superba, a capital variety of this well-known gold-co] ed

Fern, (.mile of a different habit, but still extremely attrac-
tive, is if. alstoniie, and G. a. superba is a more fascinating

plant still, the characteristics of the type being in ii n

highly developed. One of the best of the white Gymnogrammas
is i; |» rnviana argophylla, a pretty smooth leaved Fern, that
was shown in several line specimens. G. Mayi, of the same
type, is charming. G. chrysdphylla, G. Wettenhalliana, G.
sohizophylla, G. pulcherrima, and others, wire included
among the thirty-six species and varieties in the collection
(Silver Banksian Medal).

Messr.s. R. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate, made a more
gorgeous display than ever with plants of Azalea x mollis and
A. mollis hybrids. There were plants also of the A. rust iea
strai n of the type km iwn as Client Azaleas, the double-flowered
forms of which are very pretty. Of the A. mollis section the
following varieties were especially good : Comte do Quincey,
Nicolas Beets, Emilie Liebig, Dr. Reiclienbach, M.
Desbois, &c, and of the Ghent varieties Gloria Muiuli
Ariadne (white), Norma (red), Aida (pink), and llartholo
Lozari (yellow). There were about forty varieties in this
group (Silver Flora Medal).

Messrs. Wm. CiTm sii & Sons, Highgate, also staged a fine
lot of mollis and Ghent Azaleas, for which a Silver Banksian
Medal was awarded.

Messrs. Hoc.o 4 Robertson, 22, Mary Street, Dublin anain
made a line display of Tulips, the Darwin varieties 'and
"Parrot" section being shown in great variety. Varieties of
Tulipa Gesneriana, T. Billietiana (Didieri), ami other species
were wonderfully line. The flowers in every section were of very
unusual size, good substance, and brilliant colour (Silver-gilt
Flora Medal).

Messrs. Jas. Veitch 4 Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, King's
Road, Chelsea, contributed a group of flowers of bulbous
plants. These were set up with much taste, and included
considerable variety. There were Darwin, Parrot, and other
Tulips, some of the later flowering Narcissus, and double
Jonquils, Anemones, Allium Hermetti grandiflorum, Ixia
crateroides, a very brilliant-flowered Ixia, and other varieties,
Spanish Irises, strong spikes of Scilla peruviana, Tritonias, 4c!
A few plants, most of them annuals, in pots included Nemesis
compacta bicolor, a pretty and small-flowered Nemesia ;
Clintoni pulchella, a dark blue flower with white centre, very
effective for edging ; Nycterinia selaginoides, Petunia Snow-
tlake, a pretty white variety with single flowers ; Linaria
reticulata aureo-purpurea, &c. Messrs. Veitch also exhibited
a dozen plants in flower of Richardia Elliotiana ; a charming
tree Pieony with flowers of a salmon shade of rich rose and
plants in flower of .Hydrangea Hortensia Mariesii (figured in

a supplement to the Gardeners' Chronicle, May 28, 189S) (SUver
Flora Medal).

Mr. Thos. S. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, in
collection of hardy flowering plants, included a few Auriculas,
a considerable number of blooms of late Narcissi, some plants
representing varieties of Primula Sieboldi, several species
the Iberis, including I. Little Gem, profusely flowering at a
height of 2 to 3 inches ; Saxifragas, &c. (Silver Banksian
Medal).

Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, had groups of a number of
choice hardy plants in pots. We noticed Geum Heldreichi,
G. aureum, and G. miniatum ; Viola canadensis, Tiarella cor-
dif'olia, the purple-flowered variety of Aubrietia named
William Marshall, Trollius japonicus plenus, Phlox stellaria,
several well-known forms of Iberis, &c. Also plants of their
pretty and new Polyantha Rose Psyche (figured in a supple-
ment to the Hardeners' Chronicle, May 7, 1898). The flowers
arc double, with a delicate pink centre (Silver Banksian Medal).
Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London,
made a tine display with Narcissus flowers Darwin, Parrot,
and garden varieties of Tulips ; plants also of Trillium grandi-
florum, one of the flowers being so much larger than the type
as to suggest a varietal difference, but was probably an illus-
tration of the effect due to cultivation. Scilla pyramidalis
alba, and other Scillas, Nepeta hederacea variegata, &c, were
noticed (Silver Flora Medal).

Messrs. Geo. Jackson & Son, Woking, Surrey, had another
collection of hardy plants in which could be seen the hand-
some Inearvillea Delavayi. The plant is perfectly hardy, anil its
Gesnera-iike rosy-purple flowers are really lovely. Anemone
sylvestris II. pi., Daphne Cneoruin major, Phlox canadensis,
Gentiana verna, and many other species of hardy plants in
flower were shown (Bronze Banksian Modal).

Mr. G. W. Tiber, Uckfield, Sussex, again exhibited a
quantity of blooms of his new Tea Rose Sunrise, an illustration
of which we reproduce on p. 319. Its uncommon shade of
rolour should make it a fivourite.

From F. D. Godmak, Esq., South Lodge, Fareham, were
shown blooms of Irises Susiani, atrofusca, &c, and of a
number of Rhododendrons, some of them from plants in-
doors, and others from the op u ground; li. Aucklandii, li.
blandfordiiefoliiiiii (from the open), R. Nuttalli, R. eam-
pauulatum, H. Thomsoni, Ac, were included in this line
exhibit (Bronze Banksian Medal).

Mr. H. E. Gribble, gr to the Marquis of Lonuonderrv,
Wvuyard Park, Stockton-on-Tees, showed a plan! in flower
"I Eehium foriiiosum. The flowers are curious by reason of
the bright red stamens, that are much longer than the rest or
the flower, which is blue.

From Mr. En. s. Towell was shown a zonal Pelargonium,
with the somewhat sensational name of "hybrid Cactus-
flowered Geranium Fire Dragon. ' The flowers are vivid
searlet ill colour, and some of the petals being much reflexed
longitudinally, a bizarre-like appearance is given them.

Mr. Jas. Hudson, gr. to Leopold de Rothschild, Esq.,
Guiincrsbiiry lions,-, Acton, showed again several new conti-
nental (Bruant) varieties ■ <! Heliotrope of a robust, growing

habit. They were r mended to be tested at Chiswick.

Amherstia nobilis, a line spray of which came from the

Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew, tl gh a novelty to a

greal many persons, is an old plant, and was figured in the
Gardeners' Chronicle as early as March SI, 1849, when ii
flowered I'.utho first lime in Britain in the gardens of .Mrs.
Lawrence, at Ealing Park. This leguminous plant makes a
line tree I'm- f],e tiopieai-hoii.se, its carmine-rose coloured
flowers being quite regal in appearaoee. The vexillum and
two wings arc tipped with yellow. » is a native of Burnish,
and was named in compliment to Lord Amherst, a forme*
Governor. A fine spray of Clianthus Dampieri (Sturt's Desert
Tea) was also contributed from Kew.

AWARDS.
Cerasus Psendo-Cerasus an . James II. Veitch.— A light purple
variety ;of the Japanese Cherry, discovered by Mr. Jas.
H. Witch when visiting that country a few years ago. The
flowers nie about 2 inches across, and very pretty. It is
nearest to the variety known as Watereri, but is very distinct,
and deeper in colour than it, being a magenta shade of pink!
and commences to flower three weeks later. The foliage is

distinct also, and more de -alive, being a pretty shade of

bronze. The margins of the leaves are very finely toothed.
From Messrs. Jas. Veitob & Sons, Chelsea (First-class
Certificate).

Lathyrus splendent var. Pride of California.— A. handsome
\ ariety, with large velvety-like crimson flowers, shown by the
Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew (Award of Merit).

Orchid Committee.

Present: Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the chair; and Messrs.
Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De B. Crawshay, H. M. Pollett H.
liallantine, F. Sander, H. J. Chapman, J. Gabriel W II
Young, F. J. Thome, E. Hill, H. T. Pitt, J. Colinan F
Mason, A. H. Smec, T. B. Haywood, and Sydney Courtauid.

As usual at the meeting immediately preceding the Temple
Show, there was a rather small number of entries. Baron Sir
H. Schrodek (gr., Mr. H. Ballantine), staged a small group of
marvellously fine varieties of Odontoglossums, together with
an inflorescence of the superb Lielio-Cattleya X Digbyano-
Mossise, with a fringed lip. An award of a Silver Flora
Medal was made for the collection. The Odontoglossums
wore O. luteo-purpureum sceptrum, The Dell variety, and
O. X Coradinei mirabile ; O. triumphans, The Hell variety
a noble flower, with the lower half of the petals and lip of
pure white, and the margins of a yellow colour. The petals
were marked with a broad band of brown across the middle
and sonic small reddish spots. Tiro sepals were yellow!

May 20, 1899.]

THE GABDENEE8' CHRONICLE.

325

excepting about two-thirds of their length next the column,
which was banded with brown. O. x Andersonianum super-
bum, a grand form, with white flowers, bearing dark reddish-
purple markings ; and the pleasing red-flowered Dendrobium
sanguineum.

Messrs. Jas. Vejtch & Sons, Chelsea, showed the group of
the day. Among the hybrids were the remarkable new La. lio-
Cattleya X Hyeana (L. purpurata and C. Lawrenceana), a
pretty flower, partaking much of the characteristics of the
seed-parent. The sepals and petals were light lilac ; base of
the lip yellow with narrow red lines, the showy front portion
being different shades of purple ; Selenipedium x macmchilum
giganteum (x grande and caudatum Liudeni), a singular look-
ing and effective hybrid possessing creamy-white Bowers
veined with Indian yellow, and having elongated petals as in
S. caudatum, one of the flowers on the plant ahowu having a
third elongated segment in the position of the dorsal sepal ;
Epi- Cattleya x radicato - Bowringiana, the singular cross
between Epidendrnm radicans and Cattleya Bowringiana. The
inflorescence bore four of its remarkable lilac-purple flower*,
the labellums veined with dark purple ; L.-C. x Zephyra (L.
xanthina and C. Mcndeli); varieties of L.-C. X Ascam'a (L.
xanthinaxC. Jlossia) ; the pretty pale yellowspottedwith crim-
son Spathoglottis x aureo-Veillardi ; some splendid plants of
the graceful Oncidium phymatochilum, good examples of O.
sarcodes, O. conqolor, 0. ampliatum, line forms of Cattleya
Mendeli, and C. MOssise, C. intermedia, and others ; a line
series of varieties of Odontoglossum erispum, both white
and spotted varieties; a well-bloomed specimen of the sin-
gular-looking Cypripedimn Mastersianum, and other Cypri-
pediums ; Bpidendruin xauihinum, E x O'Brienianum, E. x
elegantulum, and its unspotted variety, Interim ; Dendrobinm
atroviolaceum ; the orange-scarlet D. suhclausnni, which is
said to succeed best in a tolerably cool house ; Lcelia pur-
purata, L. x Latona, L.-C. x Pallas, the brilliant deep scarlet-
coloured Epiphronitis x Veitchi, and various good ftfasde-
vallias, &c. (Silver Flora Medal).

Jeremiah Colmak, Esq., Gallon Park, Surrey (gr., Mr.
King), secured a Silver Banksian Medal for a very pretty
group of good plants, the centre one bring a tine specimen
of Ltelia purpurata, with white sepals and petals, and very
bright light purple lip. With it were good forms of Cattleya
Mendeli, C. Skinneri, odontoglossum erispum, O. Hall',
<>. luteo-purpureum, O. cordatnm, < >. Rossii, O. cirrosum,
Epiphronitis x Veitchi, Sophronitis grandiflora, a good rose-
coloured Miltonia vexillaria, Masdevallia Veitchi, Dcndroblum
atroviolaceum, Lycasto Skinneri alba, Oymbidinm x ebui neo-
Lowianum, &c.

Walter C. Walker, Esq., Winch more Hill (gr., Mr. Geo,
Cragg), showed a good example of Cattleya Walkeriana
nobilior, with a four-flowered inflorescence.

Messrs. IL qb Low & Oo. showed < idoutoglossum ■ Enfield-
Sense, a bright-coloured, medium-size Rower.

.i. Gi'Rkry Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South Woodford (gr.,
Mr. J. Davis), showed Cattleya Mendeli "J. Gurney Fowlei , a
grand flower, of good size, having while sepals and petals,
which are tinged with rose, the petals very It. ad, with a
rosy-crimson feather on then outer portions, and the lip-
fronl beingofa bright rose-purple. The flowers wen onlj
lust expanding, and not I herefore at their best

T. B. Haywood, Esq., W lhatcli Lodgo, Reigate (gr., Mr.

C. J. Salter), Showed Masdevallia Veitchi grandiflora taken

from the oi iginal atock,
Malcolm S. Cooke, Bsq., Tankerville, Kingston Ilillfgr.,

Mr. Buckell), showed a pretty spotted for I * >dontoglossum

erispum, wibh a very Ibtc branched spike.

AWARDS.
Phaius x Phoebe (Sander ianus x Ilnmblotl), from Norman
C. Cookbok, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam, Northumberland (gr.,

Mr. Win. Murray). Tho finest of the many beautiful Phaius
raised by Mr. Cookson, surpassing even the handsome P.
Cooksonice (grandifoliuin x Hnmbloti), especially in its much

larger Mowers. The broad sepals and petals nearly equal in
size, were pale pink, tinged with nankeen-yellow, except the
margins. Lip very broad, yellow at the base, with dark red
lines in the centre, the medium area bearing a callus .•! fine
orange-coloured ridges. The well-displayed front portion of
the lip was light rose, with dark rose-coloured veining (First-
class Certificate).

Odontoglossum erispum "Purity" from T.B.Haywood, Esq.,
Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate, a grand pure white form, -U inches
across, and well proportioned. Crest chrome-yellow- (Award
of Merit).

Odontoglossum erispum "Raymond Crawshay" from Dr B.
Crawshay, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks, a fine form, worthy
to take a place in the front rank of spotted crispums. The
base of the flower is of that purple-tinted class which Professor
Reichenbach originally designated " fastuosum," the petals
being finely fringed. The petals bore one to three peculiarly-
bright orange-tinted red blotches, and the sepals a cluster of
more or less confluent blotches of a similar unusual tint. Lip
white, with yellow crest, and few light brown markings
(Award of Merit).

Odontoglossum x Cora4inei mirabile, from Baron Sir H.
SefiuoijKR. This is the plant originally illustrated in tliQ
Gardeners' Chronicle as O. erispum mirabile, and on whose
obscure origin we at the time commented. It seems to be
a second crossing of O. erispum with O. x Coradinei, or
vice versd. The rather narrow segments bore very distinct
large brown blotches (First-class Certificate).

Odontoglossum luteo-purpureum sceptrumj " The Veil " vat u ty.
from Baron Sir II. Schroder. A splendid form of the
typical 0. l.-p. scepttnm, but with very large and richly-
spotted Mowers (Award officii!).

Odontoylossn.ni pohjmnthvm, " Gatton Park " variety, from
Jeremiah Colmak, Gatton Park. One of the largest and
best forms of the species. Flowers very bright yellow,
heavily blotched with chcstnutdirown (Award of Mei it).

O'lontxglossuui x Andersonianum giganteum, from Messrs.
Hugh Low & Co., of Bush Hill Park, Bnfield. One of the
largest and finest of the numerous varieties of O. x Ander-
Bouianuin. Flowers 4 inches across the petals, and 4A inches
across the sepals. Flower French-white, with many red-
brown spots on the sepals, and fewer and smaller spots of a
similar colour on the middles of the petals (Award of Merit).

Fruit Committee.
Present: Philip Crowley, Esq., Chairman ; and Messrs. W.
Wilks, Jos. Cheal, W. Poupart, A. F. Barron, A. H. Pearson,
.1. Wright, Ahx. Dean, S. Mortimer, J. W. Bates, Geo.
Wythes, P. Q. Lane, II. Baldcrson, Jas. Smith, Geo. Thos.
Miles, Geo. Norman, Robt. Lite, and M. Gleeson.

THE LATE MR. MALCOLM DUNN'.

The Rev. W. Wilks, M.A., proposed, and Mr. Jno.
Wright seconded, the following resolution :— " The Fruit
Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society has heard
with great regret of the sudden death of Mr. Malcolm Dunn,
for many years a member of their committee ; and whilst
recording the loss they themselves leel, they also desire to

express their det-pes" sympathy with the immediate friends

of Mr. Dunn.'" The resolution was carried unanimously.

Mammoth Strawberries were exhibited by Mr. A. Bishop,
Hile Crish, Market llarboro ; Mr. J. W. Miller, gr. to Lord
Foley, Huxley Lodge, Claygate ; and Mr. C. .1. Salter, gr. to
T. B. Haywood, Esq., Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate. The
largest fruits were those from Mi. Salter, who had fruits of
Rojal Sovereign similar to berries of this variety we have Been
in former years from Mr. Norii \.v, of Hat held Gardens (a Cul-
tural Commendation was awarded). Mr. Mn.ua; 3 fruits of
the same variety were truer to type perhaps in the tapering

form, but they were rather less In size (Vote of Thanks).

Those from Mr. A. Bisbop were of the varieties Monarch
and Leader, the berries ol m ch being exceptionally Large

and line (Vote of Thanks).

Mr. .las. Hudson, gr. to Leopold db Rotbschilu, Esq.,
Gunnersbury House, Acton, showed several trees in pots of
Cherry Guigne d'Anuonc iy, n black-fruited variety. The
Cherries were just ripe, and ma\ be said to be very earlj*.

From Messrs. T. Rivers A: Son, Sawbridgewortb, were
shown two ill z 'ii line fruits "I their new early Nectarine
named Cardinal. The trees from which these fruits had been
g Lthered were cultivated in pots, and were started on
Decembi i

Messrs. J \s. cmm i.u .v Co., tligh Holborn, exhibited verj
fine roots of what is undoubtedly a good early white long-
rooted Turnip. The ..,■ it appears, lias been shown
under another name, or an Award of Merit would probably
have been made in lis favour. However, the variety will be

!i 9l Bd :it Chiswiek.

\ free cropping f tto nam -d ii upper's Goliath was shown

bj I'. i: ll\\ \\ Esq (j r Mr. Salter).

ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL
IMPROVEMENT.

Mav s.— The monthly meeting was held at Sandown on
the above date, Dr. J. Guuves, B.A., J.I'., in the chair.

Mr. .S. Ileaton, secretary, gave a lecture on " Horticull til ii

Subjects," which was illustrated by a large number of lantern

kindly lent by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, of Reading.

Mr. \Y . W. Sheath, orVentnor, si aged many very fine i e

ling Ilippeastruin blooms.

THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL OF
IRELAND.

Mav 0.— A meeting of the Council of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society of Ireland was held at the Offices, 61, Dawson
Street, Dublin, on the above date. Sir Percy Grace, Bart.,
Occupied the chair, and the following members of the Council
were present :~F. W. Burbidge, Esq., M.A. ; Major Domvill,
J.P. ; Rev. F. C. Hayes, M.A. ; D. Ramsay, Esq., H.

Crawford, Esq., II. Smallman, Esq., and Grecnw 1 Pirn, Esq.

The minutes were then read by Mr, W. G. Hillyard (Secre-
Arrangements were made relati\ e to the summer Rose show,
to be held in Merrion Square on Thursday, June 29.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

May 11. — The members of Die Committee present at this
meeting were W. Thompson, Chairman; G. 3. Ball, Vice-
chairman; W.Stevens, W.Holmes, R.Johnson, Wm. Bolton,
P. Weathers, Thos. Mills (Hon. See.). Mr. De Barri Crawshay
was present, and was invited by the Orchid Committee to
assist in their deliberations. The subjects brought before the
Committee were not numerous, but included some very good
things.

Mr. O. Shorl ink Ball (gr., Mr. Gibbous), Ashfield, Wilms,
low, sent a magnificent example of Angnecum .Sanderiainim,
with two gorgeous spikes of bloom, with about forty flowers

on each spike. This plant was awarded a First-class Certifi-
cate, also a Cultural Certificate. A finely flowered piece of
Dendrobium Devoniauum came from the same collection, and
was awarded a Cultural Certificate. Cattleya intermedia alba
was well shown from the same collection, and the First-class
Certificate awarded some time ago to another plant of this
variety was confirmed. A form of Cattleya Schroderee var
Dellense also came from Mr. Ball's collection, but it was
very poor thing, distinct as far aa the lip was concerned,
lacking any character whatever elsewhere, the formation and
colouring of the lip giving one the impression that it was a
natural hybrid between C. Schroderee and C. Triansei, or
perhaps C. Gaskelliana ; it is sweetly scented, as is C.
Schrodene. Another interesting plant was Cymbidium
tigrinum with four well- developed spikes of dower, and bear-
ing evidence of good cultivation, and the Committee recognised
this by its dual award of a Cultural Certificate and Award of
Merit.

Mr. G. W. Law-Sciiofield (gr., Mr. Shill), New-Hall-Hey,
Rawtenstall, staged a fine plant of Cattleya Skinneii var.
oeulata, which obtained an Award of Merit; the same gentle-
man showed a fine plant of Cypripedimn Lawreuceanum
Hyeanum, " Cookson's var.," raised from seed.

Mr. T. Statter (gr., Mr. Johnson), Stand Hall, Whitelield,
exhibited a plant of Lielia Cattleya x Highburyensis.

Mr. John LKEaixfer., Mr. Edge), West Bank House, Heaton
Mersey, is an exhibitor who may always be relied upon to
bring something good to the meetings, and on this occasion
he brought a magnificent form of Odontoglossum polyxauthnm
called grandillonim. It is undoubtedly one .if the best forms
in cultivation, being in form perfect and with brilliant mark-
ings; it was profusely flowered. A First-class Certificate
was unanimously awarded this plant. The nextbestexhil.it
from this collection was Odontoglossum erispum grandiflornm,
which variety received an Award of Merit last year. The
cultivation of this plant was about as perfect as possible, and
the Committee unanimously awarded a Cultural Certificate.

Mr. Duncan Uiim.mii (gr., Mr. Day), Sandgate, Sheffield,

' xhibited ;. fen g I forms of Cattleya Mossiee, one of which

called "imbricata" receive! an Award of Merit. Mr. A. J.
Keblino, Bingley, forks, slewed Odontoglossum Rossii
inajus var. purpureum, an.l Cattleya Schrodera splondens.

Mr. J.m\ Robson, Altrincham, staged a good variety of
Oypripedium Rotlisehildianura giganteum, an. I was given an
Awar.l ..f Merit. Mr. Robson also show. .1 Bpidendruin
bienrnutum and Cattleya Skinneri alba, the latter was
slightly tinged with colour. J: II'.

SHIRLEY GARDENERS' & AMATEURS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.
May 16.— The monthly meeting of the above Society was held
at the Parish Room, Shirley, Southampton, on the above .late,
when there was a goo.l attendance of the members, presided
over bj Mr. B. Lash ims, F.R.h.s.

'■ ctnre, on the "Sexuality in Plants." wis given by

Mr. A. Angell, PI, |i., F.S.I., Public Analyst for flic ity

of Hants, and was il hut rated with a series of limelight slidi .-.
many of them kindlj lent by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading.
A cordial \ ote of Thanks was heartily accorded Mr. Angell.

Among tl Khibits may be mentioned New Holland plants,

shown by Messrs. \V. H. Rogers & SON, Bed Lodge Nursery;
also a group of various plants by Mr. B. I. minus, who

showed in iv Spireeas. There were shown a good plant of

Medinilla magnifies, one of Acalypha Banderf, Tansies, Ferns,
Richardia (yellow), Cactus and Auriculasby various members
of the Association.

A resolution to have an outing to Messrs. H. Cannell &
Sons, Swanley, July li, concluded the business.

CIDER AT THE SOMERSET COUNTY
SHOW.

Tins year the eider classes showed very great improvement
all round. Though the classes are restricted to the county of
Somerset only, they Tilled exceedingly well, there being seven-
teen entries iu the class for casks of not fewer than eighteen
gallons and not more than thirty gallons, made in the autumn
of 180S. The Gold Medal was carried off by Mr. W. T. S.
Tillev, Shepton Mallett, who swept the board at the Bath
and West Show last year. His cider meets the tongue bright
and clear ; it was rather inclined to be sweet, but it was full,
rich, and had plenty of life— an ideal table cider. The Silver
Medal went to Mr. R. W. Scott, South Petherton. This was
for another full, rich, heavy, fruity cider. The third prize of
a Bronze Medal went to Messrs. Waterman & Son, Baltons-
borongh, for a pleasant cider, which was not nearly so good
as another cask from the same maker, which was not men-
tioned at all, yet the cider in this cask and that in the first
prize-winning bottles was identical, and drawn from the same
butt. There were sixteen entries in the bottled class. Here
the Gold Medal went to a superb exhibit from Messrs. Water-
man ,t Son. His samples were full of natural life and sparkle,
with a delicate aroma. Mr. W. T. S. Tilley took Silver Medal
for a full, rich, fruity cider. Mr. D. J. Crohs, of Sutton
Montis, secured the Bronze Medal with a slightly thinner
cider than the preceding ones. Like the cask cider class
there was a most decided advance in the general quality of
the eider, which must be justly considered the linest and best
exhibition of this beverage that the Somerset County Show
has yet held. It was noticeable that most of the exhibits
were bright and sparkling, scarcely a cloudy lot being pre-
sent. Evidently the work tarried out by Mr. Neville Gren-

32G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 20, lf-99.

villeand the Bath and West of England Society at Butleigh
Court has had very beneficial results on the cider-making
industry of Somersetshire. E. G. F. W., Agricultural Gazette,
May 15, 1S99.

NATIONAL ROSE.

The following is an extract from the report of this Society
for 1S9S :—

The past year may be regarded as one of steady progress,
whether the point of view taken be that of the Society's exhi-
bitions, the increase in the number of members, or the istue
of its publications.

The most complete arrangements had been made by the
Society's local representatives— Mr. B. B. Cater, the President
of the Bath Floral Fete committee, and Mr. W. F. Cooling, for
the southern exhibition, at Bath— but the season unfortunately
proved such a very backward one that only exhibitors from
the most forward districts were able satisfactorily to compete.
In fact, it was without exception the smallest show the
Society has yet held. For the same reason the Metropolitan
exhibition, which took place at the Crystal Palace a week
later, was of rather less than average extent, If, however,
not so large as many of is predecessors, it was certainly one
of the best arranged and most enjoyable of recent years. This
was principally due to the whole length of the nave having been
placed once more at the disposal of the Society, and to the
new plan of dividing the exhibits in the amateur and trade
classes into distinct sections. The best Bose show of the
year was undoubtedly that at Halifax, where 4100 blooms of
" Exhibition " Boses alone were staged— making this the
most extensive sdiow, with the exception of that at Birming-
ham in 1890, that has ever been held by the Society in the
provinces. At all three exhibitions the attendance of visitors
was unusually large.

Tha conferences held in connection with tin- Bath and
Halifix shows were most successful. Two excellent papers
were read, one by Mr. W. F. Cooling, and the other by Mr.
George Paul, followed in each case by an animated and inte-
resting discussion. To the authors of those papers the tlianks
of the committee are due, as well as to Mr. B. B. Cater
and the Venerable Archdeacon Brooke for presiding at the
conferences.

The sale of the Society's publications during the year has
been again very satisfactory, and especially that of the Hints
on Planting Roses. The lirst edition of these " Hints'' having
become exhausted, a new and revised edition was printed,
and has recently been distributed to the members with the
report of the two Rose conferences.

The committee congratulate the members upon the present
satisfactory financial position of the Society. The amount in
hand at the beginning of the year was £39 18s. 7'/., and now
at its close there remains £36 lGs. lOd, to cany forward
to the next account, the total expenditure having been
£719 17.s. *2i/., while the aggregate receipts, including last
year's balance, amounted to £800 14s. Although more than
the usual number of changes have taken place in the personnel
of the non-exhibiting members, the amount received in sub-
s iriptions has on only three previous occasions been exceeded.

No application having been received from any northern
town for the Society to visit it in 1S99, there will be only two
exhibitions this year— a Metropolitan and a Provincial show.
This the committee cannot but regard as rather a fortunate
circumstance than otherwise, for hid three shows been as
usual held, it would have been impossible to bring out the
new edition of the Official Catalogue of Exhibition "„,i Garden
Roses, which it is proposed should be issued this year, with-
out resorting to the undesirable practice of calling upon the
members to contribute to a special fund to defray tin' e<»st of
its publication. The Metropolitan exhibition will be held, as
usual, at the Crystal Palace on the first Saturday in July ;
while the Provincial show will take place at Colchester, in
conjunction with the Colchester Rose and Horticultural
Society, on the following Thursday, July G. In order that the
early-tiowering Roses be not altogether overlooked, it has been
decided to offer a few prizes at the Royal Horticultural So-
ciety's Bose show, which will be held at the Drill Mali, in
James Street, Westminster, on June 27, at which members of
the National Bose Society may compete.

ROYAL BOTANIC.

Mav 17.— The exhibitions of the Royal Botanic Society
become worse and worse. The annual summer display on
Wednesday last was certainly poorer than any of its prede-
cessors that has come under our notice. There was little
competition in the general classes, and beyond a few
exhibits from the trade, the rest of the display was not good
in quality. The situation and advantages possessed by this
Society are such, that it is lamentable that its exhibitions
have become so poorly patronised. The National Tulip
Society's Show was held in conjunction with the above, and a
report will be found below.

Messrs. T. Rivers & Son, Sawbrldgeworth, Herts, exhi-
bited nine pot-trees in fruit of their new Nectarine, named
Cardinal, and two dozen or so fine fruits.

Caladiums vere shown in a group of much merit by
Messrs. John Peed & Sons, who had large specimens of a
considerable number of choice varieties. Madame J. Box*,
Triumph de Comte, John Peed, and Mrs. Harry Veitch were
some of the best.

Messrs. R. & S. Cuthbert's exhibit of hardy Azaleas made
a Very pretty effect grouped upon one of the grass mounds.
The varieties appeared to be similar to those staged on Tues-
day at the Drill Hall.

Messrs. Kelwav's beautiful Tree-Ptfonies, that were massed
in an attractive exhibit at the Drill Hall, appeared to much
less advantage here.

Mr. Chas. Turner, of the Royal Nurseries, Slough, was the
exhibitor of a group of plants of Souvenir de la Malmaison
Carnation var. Princess May, similar to those noticed upon
the previous day at the mill Hall.

Mr. W. Rumsey, Joyning's Nursery, Waltham Cross, showed
a collection of upwards of twenty-two dozen cut Roses. A
large number of the most popular varieties was represented,
but especially Niphetos and Mrs. W. Rumsey.

Messrs. W. Paul & Sons, Waltham Cross, Herts, had a fine
exhibit of Rose-trees in pots, and of cut blooms.

Messrs. John Laino & Sons, Forest Hill Nurseries, S.E.,
contributed a very meritorious collection of stove and green-
house plants.

Pejrnell Purnell, Esq., Woodlands, Streatham Hill, S.W.,
made an exhibit of alpine plants, chiefly composed of
Primulas, Auriculas, Sempervivums, and Saxifragas.

Some pretty table decorations were shown by Mr. L. H.
CALcurr, Mr. J. Prewett, Rayleioh, and others.

COMPETITIVE EXHIBITS.

Mrs. Abbot, South Villa, Begent's Park (gr., Mr. Gen.
Keif), had 1st prize for a pair of specimen Cordylines, show-
ing Lindeni, and Lord Wolseley ; and 1st priz ■ also for six
specimen Palms, including a very fine plant of Livistona
chinensis.

The 1st prize for a collection of stove and greenhouse plant*
was won by Mr. Tlios. Abbott, gr. to Campbell Newikoton,
Esq., The Holme, Regent's Park. The exhibit was composed
of moderate specimens of ordinary foliage and flowering
species.

Messrs. A. W. Youno & Co., Stevenage, Herts, was awarded
a 1st prize for a collection of hardy herbaceous plants, but
the exhibit, in our opinion, was not worthy of the award, albeit
there was an abundance of cork-bark, and Isulepis gracilis
was grouped with hardy Saxifragas and Polyanthus, The
same exhibitors won 'hid prizes for zonal Pelargonium plants,
and cut blooms of species of stove and greenhouse plants.

The 1st prize fur six plants suitable for table decoration was
wmi by W. C. Walker, Esq., Percy Lodge, Winchmore Hill
(gr., Mr. G. Cragg). He had pretty little specimens of Eulalia
gracilis, Eteedia glaucescens, Aralia gracillima, two Codia-ums,
and Geonoma gracilis.

Mr. G. Crago won 1st prize for a group of Orchids.
There were numerous specimens of Cattleyacitrina in Rower
suspended (rather in ippropriatcly) from a towel-horse. The
Odontoglossums, Dendrobiums, Cattleyas, &e., included
several meritorious specimens. The 1st prize for six < Irchids
was taken by Ludwio Mund, Esq., '20, Avenue Road, N.W.
(gr., Mr. J. O. Clarke) A specimen of Odontogloasum
citroiinum was a very good one.

THE ROYAL NATIONAL TULIP.

Mav 17.— The exhibition of this Society, held in the Gar-
dens of the Royal Botanic Society on the above date, showed
there is still some vitality attaching to it, and the .show in
itself, considering the late season, was an encouraging one.
The flowers were generally small, and there were not lacking
evidences that they had been hastened into bloom. The
exhibitors were few, but everyone had done his best to con-
tribute to the display.

A Silver Cup, given by MessiS. B.vrr & Sons, King Street,
W.C., for eighteen dissimilar varieties of Tulips, two feathered,
two flamed, and two breeders of each class, brought but one
collection, the cup being awarded to Mr. J. W. Bentlkv,
Kersal, Manchester, who staged medium-sized blooms of
bizarres, feathered, General Grant and Masterpiece ; flamed,
San Jose and Excelsior; bybheinens, feathered, Adonis and
Ashmolesl20; flamed, Othello and Chancellor ; roses, feathered
Mabel and Julia Farense ; flamed, Clio and Annie McGregor. Of
breeders there were of bizarres, Goldfinder, and Exeellent ;
bybhemeus, W. Parkinson and Adonis, the last superbly
coloured; roses, Rosehill and Annie McGregor, both very
handsome.

There wore four exhibitors of twelve dissimilar rectified
Tulips, two feathered and two tlamed of each class. Mr.
A. D. Hall, Wye, Ashford, Kent, was 1st with bizarres-
feathered Sir J. Paxton and Lady F. Cavendish, flamed
Samuel Barlow and Sir J. Paxton, byblieineu-tleathcrcd
Proserpine and Trip to Stockport; flamed George Edward and
Adonis; roses, feathered Count and Sarah Headley ; flamed,
Annie McGregor and Aglaia.

There were four stands of six dissimilar rectified Tulips, ono
feathered and one tlamed of each cla?s. Mr. J. W. Bentlkv
was 1st with bizarre-flamed San Jose, and feathered Master-
piece; bybloemens, Trip to Stockport, flamed ; and the same
variety feathered ; roses, flamed, Mabel; and feathered, Julia
Farnese.

There were but two exhibitors of three-feathered Tulips,
showing the difficulty of getting them into bloom. Mr. J. W.
Bentlkv was 1st, with bizarre Masterpiece, bybloamen Guido,
and rose Modesty.

There were five exhibitors of three-flamed Tulips, Mr. A. D.
Hall taking the 1st prize with bizarre Dr. Hardy, byblcemen
Talisman, rose Aglaia.

The breeder Tulips were very handsome, and attracted
much attention from visitors. Mr. A. D. Hall had the best
six, two of each class, viz., bizarre W. Lea, very dark, and
Goldfinder; byblcemens, Adonis and Talisman; ro- s, Annie*
McGregor, both feathered and flamed; Mr. C; W. Needham
was 2nd.

Mr. A. Hall had the three best breeders : bizarre* John
Heap ; byblcemen, Maid of Orleans ; rose, Annie McGregor.

The 1st of the Samuel Barlow prizes for a pair of lectificd
Tulips, one feathered and one flamed, was won by Mr. C. W.
Nkedham, who had flamed bizarres, Samuel Barlow, and
feathered rose Modesty ; 2nd, Mr. J. W. Bentlev, with
b:zarres, tlamed Lord Stanley ; feathered rose, Julia Fainese.

The best feathered Tulip selected from the whole show was
bizarre Richard Headley, shown by Mr. A. Chater. The best
flamed was byblcemen Geo. Edward, from Mr. A. D. Hall, a
new seedling of excellent character, raised by Seholield, of
Wortley, Leeds. The premier breeder was byblcemen Adonis,
very fine in colour, shown by Mr. A. D. Hall.

Mr. A. D. Hall won the Silver Medal ottered for a collec-
tion of English Florists' Tulips, having about fifty blo"ins of
unnamed varieties, in addition to bunches. A Gold Medal
was awarded to Messrs. Barr & Son, for a collection, having
of bizarres, Masterpiece, Sir J. Paxton, and Lord Stanley;
hyblremens, Lord Denman, Duchess of Sutherland, and
Bessie ; ro^cs, Mabel and Aglaia.

B#^ win

[The term "accumulated temperature indicates the aggregate
amouut, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degree-> — a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

£

A to

?3

1 a

b

— * «

£jm

i

i: id

■n ? 7

Q

(H £ «

°5S

1*

0

0 aver

1

1 -

2

2 _

8

1 +

4

0 aver

5

0 aver

6

0 aver

7

1 -

8

0 aver

9

o aver

10

1 -

.

1 +

Temperature.

Accumulated.

3 8

o -g
6

: ° a

Day-
deg.

45

4 2

20

59

5t

66

51

47

60

50

54

70

Day-
deg.

Day-
deg.

+ 6

- 22

+ 78

+ 112

+ S4

+ 1S8

+ 1»

4- 00

+ 121

+ 31

+ 100

+ 270

Rainfall.

£■3

Is

O

Day-
deg.

- 186

- 141

- 170

- 47

- 130

- 119

- (7

- 52

- 67

lOtlis
Inch.

4 -

4 4

2 +
2 +
1 +

1 +
0 aver

2 +

Ed iH

I Bright
Sun.

° 2

o y

nS

""1

a

•-3

S»

V

a£

.2

oS

S

KZ

b

P'£

i

H

5 »
a 9

Ins.

86

18-4

36

82

12 7

so

75

8-9

23

07

73

44

08

0 0

33

50

8-8

55

84

19 3

:3

7S

13 1

3 ■•

75

Id 7

D9

01

13-0

36

17

li \

£0

70

111

53

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, Distiicts — G, 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 May 13, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office : —

" The weather was fine and dry in all parts of the kingdom
during the earlier days of the period, but after Tuesday the
conditions became gradually unsettled, ami during the
remainder of the week showers or steady rain, occasionally
accompanied by thunder and lightning, were exp- rieneed in
nearly all districts. Some of our southern and south eastern
stations, however, had little or no rain.

"The temperature did not differ materially from the mean
value for the time of yf ar. The highest of the maxima, which
were registered on the 8th in Ireland and Scotland, and on the
11th over England, ranged from 70a in ' Ireland, N.,' aud
1 England, S.,' and 69° in 'England, S.W,' to 02° in 'Eng-
land, N.W.,' and to OG3 in 'England, N.E.' During Friday
and Saturday most of the maxima recorded in the north and
north-west were but little above 00°, and in some instances

May 20, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

327

they were below that value. The lowest of the minima
occurred, as a rule, either on the 7th or 8th, anil varied from
27° in 'Scotland, E.,' 29° in 'Scotland, N. and W.,'and 31* in
'England, N.E.,'and over Ireland, to 3S° iu 'England, E.,'
and to 45° in the ' Channel Islands.'

" The rainfall was more than tho mean iu most districts,
but considerably less in ' Scotland, N.,' ' England, S. and E.,'
and the Channel Islands. In ' Scotland, E.,' the fall was
twice, and in ' England, N.E.,' three times as much as tho
mean value.

" The bright sunshine was less than the mean in most
districts, but exceeded it in 'Scotland, N.,' ' England, S.,' and
the ' Channel Islands,' and .just equalled it in ' Ireland, N.'
The percentage of the possible duration ranged from 55 in
■England, S.,' and 53 in the 'Channel Islands,' to 30 in
' Scotland, E.,' and 23 in ' England, N.E..' "

Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Markets.

COVENT GARDEN, MA Y IS.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us regularly every
Thursday, by the kindness of several of the principal
salesmen, who rovise 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon 'the
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. En.l

Out Flowers, Ac— Average Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s. d.

s. d. s, d.

Anemones, dozen

Marguerites, p. doz.

bunches

1 6 —

bunches

3 0-40

Arum Lilies, dozen

Maidenhair Fern,

blooms

•2 0-4 0

per doz. bunches

6 0-90

Asparagus "Fern,"

Mignonette, per

bunch

2 0-30

dozen bunches ...

2 0-30

Azalea, white, 12

Narcissus, White,

bunches

3 0-40

dozen bunches ...

16-20

Azalea mollis, per

Orchids, per dozen

dozen bunches ...

a o-oo

blooms

6 0-12 0

Bouvardias, per bun.

0 4- 0 G

Pelargoniums, doz.

Camellias, per doz.

bunches

4 0-60

blooms

1 0- 2 0

— scarlet, perdoz.

Carnations, per doz.

bunches

G 0- S 0

blooms

16-30

Roses (indoor), per

Daffodils, per dozen

dozen

16-20

bunches

2 6-40

— Pink, per dozen

4 0-60

Eucbaris, perdozen

2 0-30

— Tea, white, per

Gardenias, per doz.

10-30

dozen

2 0-30

Hyacinths, Roman,

— Perle, per doz.

10-20

per doz. bunches

4 0-60

— Safrauo, p. doz.

16-20

Jonquils, per dozen

Smilax, per bunch

3 0-50

bunches

10-20

Tuberoses, 12 bhus.

0 8-10

Lilium longiflorum,

Tulips, per dozen...

0 6-13

per dozen

■10-6 0

Violets, per dozen

Lily of the Valley,

bunches

0 6-16

dozen bunches ...

6 0-10 0

— Parma, bunch

2 0-26

Vegetables

— AVERAO

e Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s. d.

s. d. s. d.

Artichokes, Globe,

Mint, forced and

per doz.

2 0 —

natural, per

— Jerusalem, per

dozen bunches,

sieve

10-20

according to

Asparagus, Giant,

size of bunches

2 0-50

per bundle ...

5 0-10 0

Onions, Egyptian,

' Toulouse

13-16

cwt. bag ...

4 6-50

— Spanish, bund.

10-1 0

— New, bunches.

2 4-30

— Sprue

0 0 —

— picklers, sieve

SO-

— Eng., natural,

Parsley, doz. bun.

SO—

Iter bundle

I 0- 3 G

— sieve

1 0- 1 G

— Various others

0 9-10

Peas, Channel Is-

Beans. Dwfs. , Chan-

lands, Frame

nel Islands, lb.

0 6- 0 8

Telephone, lb.

0 8-0 9

English, lb.

0 6- 0 S

— French flats ...

4 0-40

Longpods, iu

Potatos, Bruce, Sax-

Oats

HO -

on, Up- to-Date,

Beetroots, per doz.

0 G- 0 9

Ac, per ton ...SO O

— bushel

2 0- 2 G

— New JerseyKid-

Broccoli, dozen ...

1 0- 2 6

neys, per cwt.

2S 0 —

— crates

G 0-12 0

— — Frame,

Cabbage, tally

3 6-50

per lb

0 G —

— per bushel

2 0 —

— — Teneriffe,

— dozen

0 it- 1 0

per cwt.

14 0-1 7 0

Carrots, new French ,

— Lisbon, per box

5 0 —

per bunch

0 6-08

Radishes, Round,

— washed, in bags

4 0 —

breakfast, per

— Surrey,bunches,

dozen bunches 0 10 —

doz

2 6 —

— Long, per doz.

Celery, Red, dozen

bunches

0 6 —

bundles

9 0-12 0

Rhubarb natural,

Cress, doz. punnets

1 6 —

per dozen

2 0- 2 G

Cucumbers, perdoz.

2 6- 3 C

— York, per doz.

Endive, French, per

bundles

10-13

dozen ..

16 -

Salad, small, pun-

Garlic, per lb.

0 3 —

nets, per dozen

1 3 —

Horseradish, New

Spinach, Engl ish,

English, bundle

2 0 2 6

per bushel ...

2 0- 2 G

— — loose per

Tomatos, new

doz., fine

1 G —

English, per lb.

0 6£- 0 8

— Foreign, per

— Channel Islands,

bundle

10-12

p. lb

0 4- 0 G

Leeks, per dozen

— Canary, boxes..

GO -

bunches

1 0- 1 6

Turnips, New

Lettuce, Cos, dozen

3 6-46

French, per

— Cabbage, \ dozen

10-13

bunch

0 4-08

Mushrooms, house,

Watercress, p. doz.

per lb

0 8-09

bunches

0 6 -

s. d. s, d.

s, d. s. d.

Arbor Vitae, p. doz.

12 0-36 0

Ferns, small, per

Aspidistras,] p. doz.

18 0-36 0

100

4 0-60

— specimen, each

5 0-10 0

Ficus elastica, each

10-50

Dractenas, various,

Foliage plants, var. ,

per doz

12 0-30 0

each

10-50

— viridis, p. doz.

9 0-13 0

Lyiopodiums, doz.

3 0-40

Euonvmus, various,

Marguerite Daisy,

per dozen

6 0-18 0

per dozen

6 0-80

Evergreens, invar.,

Myrtles, per doz....

6 0-90

per dozen

6 0-24 0

Palms, various, ea.

1 0-15 0

Ferns, in variety,

— specimens, ea.

21 0-03 0

per dozen

4 0-12 0

Zonals, per dozen..,

6 0-80

Fruit.—

Average Wholesale Prices.

s. d. s. d.

8. d. 8. d.

Apples, Tasmaniarj

Grapes, English,

andVictorian,

Hambros, p. lb.

2 0-40

R i b stons,

— Channel Islands

rearmains,

Hambros, p. lb.

2 3 —

New York

— Muscats p. lb.

4 0-60

Pippin, Btiir-

Lemons, per case...

7 6-25 0

mer, Prince

Lychees, Chinese,

Bismarck, &c.

packet, 1 lb. ...

1 8- 1 4

per case

10 6-15 0

Melons, each

1 0- 2 0

— Nova Scotian,

Oranges, Valencia,

Nonp.-i:

420

13 0-20 0

barrel

24 0-25 0

— Murcia, cases ol

Apricots, box of 24

1 0- 1 3

150 or 200 ...

7 6-86

Bananas, per bunch

G 0-10 0

— Blood

'.i 6 —

Cherries, sieve

9 G —

Peaches, per dozen

0 0-42 0

— peck

6 II- 6 6

Pears, Australian,

— box

10-13

cases

4 0- S 0

Figs, per dozen ..

3 0-80

Pines, St. Michaels,

Gooseberries, half-

each

3 0-50

sieve or peck ...

5 0-60

— French, in bas-

Grapes, Belgian A.,

kets, about 4 lb

2 0-20

per lb., new ...

1 4- 1 9

Strawberries, p. lb.

.; 6 l 0

— Seconds

10-20

Pota ros.
Bruce, Saxon, and Main Crop, 80s. to 100s. ; Up-to-Date,

05ff. fco 105s. ; liunbai- Maui Crop, 100s. to 110s. Johnlkith,

32 and 34, Wellington Streett < ■ vent Garden.

Remarks. Spring Spinach lias commenced, Gooseberries
art? coming in larger quantities. Cabbage coming better.
Asparagus plentiful. Home-grown Tomatos are now coming
freely, and of good quality.

SEEDS.

London: May 17. — Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, Seed Mer-
chants, of Great Maze Pond, BoroQgh, London, S.E., report
to-day's market thinly attended, with but little business
doing. Sowing orders for Clover and other farm seeds are
now naturally getting fewer and smaller. There is still some
inquiry for Tares ; whilst the sale for Mustard and Rape-
seed improves. Hemp-seed continues both scarce and dear ;
and Canary-seed is attracting increased speculative attention.
There is also a better sale for Blue Peas and Haricot Beans.
Scarlet Runners are in good request, at the low prices now
current. For Linseed the trade is steady. The Board of
Trade Returns give the imports of Clover and Grass-seeds
into the United Kingdom for the four months of this year,
ending April SO, 1899, as 144,583 cwt, value £270,850, as
against 203,798 cwt, value £395,661, for the corresponding
period of 1S98.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the
week ending May 13, and for the corresponding period of
1S9S, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

Description.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

s. d.
45 11

s. d.
25 i

s. d.

- 20 7

Barley

27 1

23 11

- 3 2

Oats

21 1

17 0

- 3 4

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

Glasgow: May 17. — The following are the averages of the
prices recorded since our last report: — Apples, Canadian
Spies, 14s. to 18s. per barrel ; "Western States' Russets,
ISs. to 20s. do. ; Oranges, Gd. to Is. per dozen ; Grapes,
home, 2s. to 4s. per lb. ; do. foreign, 6d. do. ; Tomatos,
Guernsey, 4d. to Sd. per lb. ; do., Scotch, 5d. to Sd.
do. ; Spring Cabbages, Gd. to Is. per dozen ; Cauliflowers,
Edinburgh, 2s. to 2s. Gd. per dozen ; Leeks, Is. Gd. to 4s.
per dozen bunches; Mint, green, Gd. per pound bunch;
Onions, 4s. Gd, to 5s. per cwt. ; Parsley, Is. Gd. to 2s.
per stone; Carrots, new, round, Is. per bunch; do., 4s. Gd.
to 7s. per cwt. ; Cucumbers, 4d. to 5d. each ; Lettuces,
round, Is. 3'/. to Is. Gd. per dozen; do., Cos, Is. to 5s. do.;
Radishes, long, English, Is. Gd. per dozen bunches ;
Horseradish, Is. Gd. to 2s. per bundle; round Radishes, Is.
to Is. Gd, perdozen bunches ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. 3d, per lb.;
Beetroots, Gd. to 7t/. per dozen ; Mustard and Cress, 3d. per
punnet; Spinach, 2s. to 4s. per stone; Swedes, 2s. to 2s. Gd.
per bag; Broccoli, Irish, 2s. to 2s. Gd. per dozen; Seakale,
Is. Gd. per bunch ; French white Turnips, Is. to Is. 3d.
per bunch.

Liverpool: May 17. — Wholesale Vegetable Market —
Potatos, per cwt, Main Crop, 3s. Gd. to 4s. 3d.; Bruce,
2s. 10d. to 3s. Gd, ; Champions, 2s. 9</. to 3s. 3d, ; Turnips,
swedes, 2s. Gd. to 3s. do. ; Carrots, 4s. to 5s. do. ; Parsley, Gd.

to Bd\ per dozen bunches ; Onions, foreign, 4s. to 5s. per cwt. ;
Cucumbers, 2d. to 3d. each ; Cauliflowers, Is. 3d. to 2s. per
doz. ; Cabbages, Grf. to Is. do. St. J oh its.— Potatos, Is. to Is. 2d.
per peck; do., new, 2d. to 4d. per lb. : Grapes, home, 2s. to
4s. per do. ; Pines, English, is. to 6s. each ; Strawberries,
4s. to 5s. per lb. ; Peas, Gd. to Is. do. ; Cherries, 6d. to
lOd. do. ; Cob Nuts, Qd. to Sd. do. ; Apricots, Is. perdozen ;
Asparagus, Is. Gd. to 3s. per bundle ; Cucumbers, 3-/. to 4d.
each; Mushrooms, is. 2d. per pound and basket. /;<//,«,,-
ftead.— Potatos, Is. to Is. 2d. per peck ; do., new, 2d. to Gd.
per pound; Peas, GfJ. do.; Asparagus, 3s. to 4s. per 100;
Cucumbers, 2d. to 6;/. each; Strawberries, 4s. per pound ;
Cherries, Sd. to lOd. do.; Apricots, Is. per dozen; Goose-
berries, 8d, per pound ; Grapes, home, Is, Gd, to 3s. do.
Mushrooms, Is. to Is. Gd. do.

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. W. Dandridoe, late Gardener at Arrandene, Mill Hill, as
Gardener to E. Ford, Esq., Bridgen Place, Bexley, Kent.

Mr. John Stubley, late Foreman at Fenay Hall Gardens,
Huddersfield, as Gardener to Henry Appleton, Esq.,
St. Anns' Grange, Leeds.

Mr. W. G. Littlejohn, Gardener to Col. G. J. Scurfield,
Hurworth House, Hurworth-on-Tees.

Mr. Wm. Dinsdale, Gardener to John S. Barwick, Esq.,
Thimbleby Hall, Northallerton.

Mr. Herbert Pearson, Gardener to the Rev. G. R. Duruis,
Sessay Hall, Thirsk.

Mr. H. Tatk, Gardener to Rev. C. T. Kales, Newton lc
Willows, R.8.O., Yorks.

Mr. R. E. Brain, late Gardener at Danvers House, Culworth,
as Gardener to Mrs. J. Savorv, Sunrising, Banbury.

Mr. Charles Richardson, late Gardener to Sir Joseph
Verdi n, Bart., Broekhurst, Northwich, Cheshire, as Gar-
dener at Bryn-y-ncaudd Castle Gardens, Llaufairfeehan,
N. Wales.

Mr. George Sheroold, for the past two years Head Gar-
dener to <'. E. Shea, Esq., The Elms, Foot's Cray, as Bead
Gardener to J. P. Gems, Esq., Eaton Grange, Cobham,

Surrey.

Mr. J. A. Latter, for the last two and a half years Head
Gardener at Elstead Lodge, Godalming, Surrey, as
Head Gardener to John Gopden, Esq., Fernclitf,
Tunbridge Wells.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Wood & Ingram, Huntingdon and St. Neots— Bedding and

other plants.
E. M. Kichford, 34, Cheapside, London, E.C.— India-rubber

Stamps, Tyre Pads, &c.
J. B. Bailliere & Sons, 10, Rue Hauttfeuille, Boulevarde

Sainte Germain, Paris — Books.

Adaptation to Circumstances.— Much

attention is now paid to the co-relation between
structure anil conditions of life. The plants grow-
ing in desert places have a peculiar conformation,
aquatic plants also, and so forth. Nevertheless,
we sometimes meet with curious exceptions, one of
which was given ns lately by Mr. Scea.se Dickens.
The Heaths, as everyone knows, generally grow in
dry places, and the leaves are sharply rolled round
at the margins as to nearly cover the lower sur-
face, where the stomata are placed, and thus impede
undue evaporation. Mr. Sorasb Dickens' speci-
men, however, showed that this conformation is
not confined to plants growing in dry places, for
the specimen of Erica mediterranea, with which he
obliged us, was found growing iu wet, swampy
places, in Connemara.

Osier Cultivation.— Osier culture is being

greatly developed in Germany, and there can be no
doubt that a large area of the land unsuitable for
ordinary agricultural crops in this country might
be profitably utilised in the cultivation of Willows
suitable for basket-making. More especially has
the culture of Osiers been developed in the valleys
of the Wurn and the Roev, near the borders of
Holland. The prosperity of the district is reported
to have been greatly increased by the introduction
of this new industry. Basket-making in Germany
is a considerable industry, employing nearly 40,000
persons annually, representing nearly £025,000
capital, and using the growth of over 48,000 acres
of Willows, valued at £396,000 on the stocks, or
nearly double that amount when peeled. A con-
siderable proportion of the baskets used for mar-
keting fruit and vegetables in this country come
from Germany ; and as they could be equally as
well made at home, we are pleased to learn that the
question is receiving the attention of several of the
Technical Education Committees.

328

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE.

[May 20, 1899.

Sale of Orchids at Manchester.— A

6ale of surplus Orchids in the collection of F. Hardy,
Esq., Tyntesfield, was conducted on the 16th and
17th inst., by Messrs. Protheroe & Morris. Many
of tho principal buyers from London were present,
including Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Hugh Low
& Co., F. Sander & Co., Mr. Tracey, and Mr. A.
Outrain. The majority of the rare and most
valuable specimens were purchased by southern
buyers. On the first day the sale realised about
±'1100, and on the second day, £800. A plant of
Cypripedium x Fred Hardy realised 50 guineas,
and two specimens of C. x Jas. H. Veitoh were sold
respectively for 80 guiueas (with two growths),
and 62 guineas (one growth) ; C. insigne Sanderas
was sold for 31 guineas. Other leading prices
were : — Laslia purpurata Hardyana, 18 guineas ;
L. anceps Amesiie, 14 guineas ; L;elio-Cattleya
Macfarlanei, 22 guineas ; L.-C. Pallas superba,
40 guineas ; C. Mendeli, 45 guineas ; C. Mossiai
Wagneri, 21 guineas ; L.-C. X Bella, 40 guineas ;
C. Mendeli, Quoin House var., 42 guineas.

rrefpomknUjf

Bordeaux Mixture : C. N. M. The materials
consist of copper sulphate, 4 lb. ; fresh lime
(unslaked), 4 lb. ; water, 40 gallons. Care should
be taken that the lime is of good quality, and
that it has not become air-slaked. Dissolve the
copper sulphate in a tub, and slake the lime in a
box. When the sulphate is dissolved, put in
slowly the slaked lime-wash, after it has by
settling become somewhat clear, and stir the
whole well together. To ascertain if the quan-
tity of lime is sufficient, dip a clean knife-
blade into the mixture ; if copper be deposited
on it there is too much copper, and more lime
must be added until no deposit is made. Failure
to do this may result in injury being done to
tender foliage. A small excess of lime will do no
harm.

Chrysanthemum Leaf-spot : S. W. A disease
duo to a fungus, Septoria cbrysanthemi. The
brown dry spots are quite distinct from rust.
The usual remedies, Bordeaux Mixture and
potassium sulphide, sprayed over the plants have
given fairly satisfactory results. The solutions
used should be rather dilute to prevent spotting
of the foliage. Recently Mr. R. W. Hodder
recommended a whale-oil soap mixture for the
rust (see Gardeners' Chronicle, January 28, 1899,
p. 03) ; we believe it would be equally effective
against this leaf-spot fungus. Select cuttings
from plants free from this disease, as it is
generally most severe amongst the cuttings.
W. O. S., Leech.

Disease of Gooseberries : Stanley Piatt. Tho
foliage, &c, sent is infested with JEcidium gros-
sularire — "Gooseberry-rust" (fig. 119), see also
Gardeners' Chronicle, August 20, 189.S, p. 145.
There is no known cure for an attack. Preven-
tive dressing with the Bordeaux Mixture might
ward off an attack. All affected leaves and fruits
should be collected and burned.

Fungus on Juniper Twigs : C. C. Ellison. Gymno-
sporangium tremelloides, the mycelium of which
penetrates the bark, causing thickening of the
twigs and a premature death of the distal portion
above the swellings. The brown, velvety spore-
cushions break out between the bark-scales on tho
swollen portious about the middle of April. In
May or June, the cushions swell up and become
brownish-yellow, gelatinous clumps, dotted over
with dark points. This species of fuugus is of
great importance, on account of its attacks on
Apple-trees, producing iu the spore-form Roestelia
on the leaves. Every means should be taken to
destroy it by cutting-off and burning infested
twigs, and the use of the Bordeaux Mixture on
trees infested with it.

Names oi Plants: Correspondents not answered in

this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the foUomng number. — H. O. E. 1, Sedum
acre aureum ; 2, Sedum sarmentosum ; .'!, Saxi-
fraga muscoides ; 4. 5, forms of Phlox subulata ;
6, send when in Mower. — J. P., France. The

flowers arrived dry, and with the colour gone,
and pollinia imperfect. 1, is doubtless Spatho-
glottis Petri ; 2, conforms to all the characters
of an albino of Broughtonia lilacina (La:liopsis
Dominyensis) ; we have heard of white forms of
it, and also Broughtonia sanguinea, but have
never seen them. — A. L. 1, Dendrobium clava-
tum ; 2, Phakeuopsis Luddemanuiana — a good
variety ; 3, Odoutoglossum cordatum. — K. H.
Pyrus Malus floribunda. — H. H. E. A Strepto-
carpus, in which we see nothing unusual. — Mrs.
Williamson, Canterbury. Meliantbus major. —
H. W. l.SaxifragaMawiana; 2, Dorouicum cauca-
sicum ; 3, Iberis Tenoreana ; 4, Corydalis nobilis ;
5, Epimedium alpiuum ; 0, Alyssum saxatile. —
Dinwoodie. Medinilla magnifica. — G. II. M.
Magnolia Soulangeana. Your Grapes are rusted
from syringing in the sunlight, or perhaps from
excess of sulphur on the pipes. — J. W. l,notfouud ;
2, Tulip ; 3, a Savin with a fungus — Gymuosporan -
gium(see above) ; 4, Scilla with a fungus — Puc-
cinia : further information next week. — W. SI. &
Co. .Ecidium grossularia?, a fungus (see fig. 120).
— Card-box' : no name. 1, Ceanothus azureus ; 2,
Choisya ternata ; 3, Bridgesia spicata ; 4, Cistus
ladauiferus ; 5, Pyrus Maulei ; 6, Viuca major ; 7,
Euonymus japonicus variegatus ; S, Kerria japo-

FlO. 119.- UII'li'M orossularmb : rust of gooseberries.

nica ; 9, Viburnum Tinus. — Wills. Melia Azeda-
rach. — /. P. ], l'ittosporum Tobira : 2, Styrax
officinale ; 3, Kxochorda grandillora. — M. II. 1,
Fabiaua imbricata ; 2, Forsythia viridissima :
perhaps, specimen insufficient. — G. II. H. 1,
Uvularia perfoliata; 2, Piptanthus nepalensis ;
3, Toxicophlua spectabile ; 4, Amelanchier vul-
garis ; 5, Choisya ternata ; G, Viburnum Opulus.
— W. O. Arum crinitum. — G. H. 1, A Cedar
which we cannot name without seeing the tree ;
2, Abies cephalonica ; 3, Cupressus thyoides ; 4,
Taxodium sempervirens ; 5, Juniperus communis ;
(I, Cephalotaxus pedunculata var. fastigiata. —
Jl. II. M. The spotted leaf is Begonia incaruata
maculosa ; the other referred to by you was not
found. — S. G. S. Both remarkably good varie-
ties of Dendrobium chrysotoxum. — T. P. Cat-
tleya intermedia. — P. C. P. Probably the seeds
of an Alstrcemeria. — G. II. 3, Cuphea ignea. —
J. Milsom. 1, Pittosporum tenuifolium ; 2,
Viola hirta. — F. C. Scilla campanulata. —
II. A. M. Ribes aureum.

Paris Lav :
probably.

Jr. C. Leach. Paris quadrifolia,

Patron Saint of Gardeners : Godfrey. The
reputed patron saint of gardeners is according
to Mrs. Bury Palliser, who wrote an account of
Brittany and its Byeways, London, John Murray,
1S70 (St. Fiacre) ; gee Gardeners' Chronicle,
January 1, 1870, p. 13.

PeacSes in Close Clusters: Anxious Reader.
The clusters of fruit have originated from an
union of the ovaries of the blossoms, for which
the extra vigour of the trees may account.

Pear Diseased : Notts. The young shoots and
leaves are attacked by the Pear-leaf Blight,
oaused by fungus (Entomosporium maoulatum).
It is one of the worst of orchard diseases, because
not only does it cause loss of the foliage, but it
passes ou to the young fruit and makes it stunted
aud unshapely. The disease is recognised by the
dark-red spots standing up from the surface of
the leaf or fruit. It appears first on the young
unfolding shoots, aud is said to occur more fre-
quently on seedling Pears than on grafted plants.
The remedy which has been found most successful
is Bordeaux Mixture. This is sprayed over tho
trees from the time the leaves unfold, and at in-
tervals of two to three weeks till August. It
should then be discontinued, as the Mixture may
spot the ripening fruit. The spraying machine
ought to be one of the larger forms, and strong
enough to reach the topmost twigs. In autumn
all fallen leaves should be collected and burnt,
and in pruning care should be taken to remove
all twigs which were attacked the previous
season. W. G. S., Leeds.

Rhododendron Leaves : H. M. A mechanical
injury, caused probably by the dogs, as you
suggest. There is no fungus. Put up a net
round the bushes, or take other means to keep
the animals at a distance.

Soil Analysis : H. A. C. If you are a Fellow of
the Royal Horticultural Society apply to tho
Secretary.

Sweet Peas and Manure : G. E. P. The sub-
stances named are very suitable manures for the
plants. Superphosphate of lime would supply the
one, and the potash might be afforded by wood-
ashes if you have them, or by commercial potash.
Carbonate of potash may be safely and usefully
employed at the rate of 500 lb. per acre. Soluble
calcium, phosphate, or superphosphate of lime,
300 lb. to 500 lb. per acre. These quantities
would suffice for oue dressing. If nitrate of soda
be employed at the rate of 80 lb. per acre, the
superphosphate might be reduced by one-half.

ViTisCoifiNETi.i: : 7i.CZ). If your plant is grow-
ing in a pot, and has as yet not made much
growth, it may be planted forthwith. Let the
station for the plant be well prepared, and make
the drainage good, and be sure that the position,
whether ou wall or trellis, is fully exposed to the
sun. It is a rampant grower, neediug a good
deal of space.

Wireworm : Sufferer. You can do little whilst the
ground is under crop beyond applying agricul-
tural salt and nitrate of soda in safe doses twice or
thrice for the destruction of tho wireworms ; but
as a palliative you may sow Lettuce-seeds among
the crops, the " worm " having a partiality for the
roots of these plants. In the autumn or early
winter it would be well to dress the land heavily
with gas-lime and salt, letting these substances lie
on the surface till February or later, then trench
the soil as deep as you prudently may, using more
gas-lime or quick-lime as the work of trenchiug
proceeds. It is probable that this sort of pro-
cedure will have to be extended over several
years.

Communications Received.— G. B. M.— D. T. F.— G. B. M.—
D. B.— F. C— J. T. L.-A. C— W. S.— F. J. H.-S. F.—
S P— A. F.— D. B.— J. J. W.— W. S.— R. M.— W. W.—
F. B.— Expert.— R. W. A.— II. T. M.— W. H. Y.-W. J. B.
— W. G. S., Leeds.— A. D.— R. MeL.— J. T. L.— R. I. L.
— C. J.

Specimens and Fuotoghaphs Received with Thanks —
Field of Narcissus oraatus, Orchard Co., Scotby, Carlisle.

IMPORTANT TO ADVERTISERS. - "'« Put.Iisher has
the satisfaction of announcing that the cnulotion of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the
vrice of the payer,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded thai the "CAnmicZe* cvrctUates amana
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners
and Garden-lovers at home, thin it has a specially largt
Foreign and Colonial Circulation on<l that it is
, reserved for reference in all the principal Libraries.

May 27, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

329 ~\

THE

(Sarilenm' djtaimte

No. 648.— SATURDAY, MAY 27, 1899.

THE FERTILITY OF SOILS.
'T^HE factors upon which the fertility of the
-*- soil depend are many. The amount of
plant-food and its degree of solubility, the
mechanical texture or tilth, and the climate,
which includes temperature, amount of rainfall,
&c. , are the chief of these.

Soils to l>e fertile must contain the elements
of plant-food in such forms that they can be
readily used for the nutrition of vegetation. At
the same time, its condition must not be too
loose, else a firm hold will not be afforded to
the roots of plants, and there will be too much
drainage and evaporation ; nor must it be too
heavy and plastic, for then air and water could
not freely permeate it, nor the roots extend
themselves beyond a very limited area. Gene-
rally speaking, light, loqse soils are not as rich
in plant-food as those in which clay predomi-
nates ; yet, on account of their excellent con-
dition of tilth, and the ease with which they are
worked, they are specially adapted for most
horticultural purposes, and having a sufficiency
of manure, they often yield in favourable seasons
heavier crops than the stronger soils would do.
Stiff, heavy clays, though rich in inorganic
food, potash, and phosphoric acid, are often
poor in nitrogen, while their mechanical con-
dition is such as to prevent thorough aeration
and the penetration i if the roots. It is these
soils especially that are benefited by drainage.
By a system of drainage the water which satu-
rates the surface-soil is carried off, air allowed
to permeate, the whole is rendered more friable
and easily worked, and much plant-food is
converted into assimilable forms.

Where sand largely preponderates, the soil is
not retentive of moisture and fertilising mate-
rial, especially if the subsoil lie light, and though
easily worked it is not so desirable in very dry
seasons, as on a heavier soil. A proper pro-
portion of sand and clay, therefore, for many
reasons, makes the best soil. With the clay
and sand, varying amounts of peaty matter, or
humus, derived from the decomposition of vege-
table matter, may be mixed. In horticulture
leaf-mould is largely used. Calcareous matter,
chalk, lime, and bone-meal, are usually asso-
ciated, and a light proportion of these exerts a
beneficial influence upon the tilth of the soil,
as well as upon the solubility of the plant- food.
By the slow decomposition of the clay, the
vegetable matter, and the lime, valuable plant-
nutrients, are liberated in a soluble form, ami
therefore the function of these soil constituents
is not only mechanical but chemical.

The most important inorganic constituents of
a soil are potash and phosphoric acid. These,
together with nitrogen, are known as the
essential elements of plant-food.

To understand the question of soil-fertility,
the gardener should become familiar with these
matters, should know what these elements will
do for crops and plants, and when and how to
apply them.

Nitrogen. — This element, like potash, lime,
anil phosphoric acid, is an essential constituent
of all plants. In its free state it is a permanent
gas, and is one of the most widely distributed
elements, comprising about four-fifths of the
earth's atmosphere. This vast supply of nitro-
gen is, however, of no direct value to plants,
since they are unable to use it, except when
combined with the elements oxygen or
hydrogen, forming nitric acid and ammonia,
that may be taken up through the roots of
plants. Leguminous plants, like Peas, Beans,
Lupins, &c. , and possibly Orchids, are in-
directly able to build up their nitrogenous
ingredients from the free nitrogen of the air,
through the activities of microscopic plants
(known as bacteria), intimately associated with
them ; other plants may, possibly-, under favour-
able conditions to some extent have the same
faculty.

Nitrogen is present in the soil in simple
combinations as nitrates or ammonia salts, or
as more complex organic, compounds, forming
the dark coloured humus especially abundant in
peat, leaf-mould, and forest soils. The total
quantity of nitrogen in ordinary good soils
varies between O'l and 0"2 per cent. ; occasion-
ally the nitrogen content will approach one per
cent., as in the case of rich pasture soils. Peat
soils will often contain over two per cent, of
nitrogen ; this is, however, largely in a com-
bination that will not directly sustain plant life,
but has to undergo a weathering process beforo
the plant t-.ni make use of it.

Nitrogenous manures help to strengthen
plants in their earlier growth, favour leaf
development, and give a deep green healthy
colour to the foliage ; applied in excessive
quantities they induce rank growth at the
expense of the development of the fruit.

Phosphoric acid is present in soils in com-
bination with a number of other chemical
substances, which exert a very beneficial in-
fluence on the growth of plants. Phosphoric
acid is found in soils partly in a form that
plants can readily dissolve and make use of in
the building of their structure, partly in an
insoluble form which under the influence of
water, carbonic acid and air, or the mineral
components of the soil are gradually changed
into available plant food. There is only a small
quantity of phosphoric acid in ordinary soils,
viz., less than 0-2 per cent., and often only
005 per cent. ; but as the content is not
decreased in any way except by the growing of
crops, the soil will only become deficient in this
constituent in case of continuous cropping
without manuring.

Phosphoric acid is of special importance in
the early life of plants ; it stimulates the assi-
milation of mineral substances in the plant,
and favours the development of its root sys-
tem. Thex-e is an intimate relation between
the nitrogenous principles and the phosphoric
acid in plants, and we find that, generally
speaking, a high nitrogen content is accom-
panied by a high percentage of phosphoric
acid. The phosphoric acid of plants is usually
concentrated in their maturing organs, the
flower and seed.

Potash is found in Nature in combination
with acids like sulphuric, carbonic, and silicic
acid. Potash is generally distributed in small
quantities in most soils, except light sandy
soils, which are apt to be deficient in this fer-
tilising element ; it is found in ordinary soils
in somewhat larger quantities than phosphoric
acid, namely, from one to three-tenths of one
per cent., and occasionally as much as one per

cent, in case of soils 'originating from granitie,
basaltic, and other rocks rich in potash. Like
phosphoric acid, potash may be present in th«
soil in a non-available form, especially as doubla
silicates, that are but slowly decomposed
through the action of water, air, and other
constituents of the soil.

Potash is found in the largest quantities in
foliage plants, in leguminous plants, in Vines,
and in Potatos. It is of the greatest value
to plants, in facilitating the flow of sap, and
the diffusion of starch from cell to cell. It
gives increased strength to the cell structure of
plants and has in general a beneficial influence
on the flavour and texture of fruits and
Potatos.

Lime is present in most fertile soils in suffi-
cient quantities to allow of the production of
large crops, but occasionally there will be too
little of it to reach this end, in which case the
addition of some lime compound to the soil, will
produce very beneficial results. It is considered
that a lime content of one-half of one per cent,
an ample supply in light soils, while heavy soils
may need 2 per cent, or more.

The good effects from the addition of lime to
soils do not come only from the increase of
an ingredient essential to plant growth, but the
mechanical condition of the soil, its texture,
water and heat-retaining capacity, are improved.
This same is true in perhaps all cases when
fertilisers are applied to soils, a fact which is
generally overlooked by horticulturists.

CAMBRIDGE BOTANIC. GARDEN.

In the Gardeners' Chronicle for November 4,
1882, was published an illustrated article upon
the University Botanic Garden, which contained
details of the history of the establishment, and of
the purposes it serves in respect to the University.
We do not propose for the moment to speak of
these matters, but to reproduce a few uotes
recently taken when having occasion to visit
Cambridge, the opportunity was embraced to
obtain a very hurried glimpse of the plants under
Mr. Lynch's care.

Temperate-house. — This structure contains some
capital specimens of the cooler-growing Palms, and
a collection of miscellaneous species of plants that
need but slight protection from the weather. In
bloom was noticed Grevillea glabrata, an Australian
species introduced in 1S3S. It is an erect growing
glabrous shrub, and the plant at Cambridge, which
is many feet iu height, is against the glass side of
this house. An extremely beautiful effect was
made by an abundance of axillary racemes of white
pendulous flowers ; the plant cannot be too strongly
recommended for cultivation in temperate houses
or large conservatories. Also the handsome North
American Honeysuckle, Lonicera sempervirens
minor : the well-known Choisya ternata ; C'istus
monspeliensis, a southern European species, with
white ■ petalled flowers and yellow centres ; also
Macleania iusiguis, a Vacciniaceous plant, from the
American Andes, with orange-red flowers : Hetero-
toma lobelioides, the bird-plant of Mexico, so named
from a supposed resemblance the flower bears to a
bird. The plant belongs to the Lobelia family, and
has alternate petiolate leaves. The flowers are a
shade of red and yellow, the curious corolla being
somewhat tubular ; it was introduced in 1861.

Wultr-Lily Home, ,te. — An excellent photograph
of the interior of this house was given in the issue
of the Gardeners' Chronicle for June 14, 1890. It
contains a very representative collection of water
and semi-aquatic plants. The tank, which covers
the greater part of the floor space, is occupied with
species of Nynipluea, including some of Marliac's
hybrids, and many of the plants are now in bloom.
There are good specimens of the Paper Reed

330

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 27, 1899.

(Papyrus antiquomm), Thalia dealbata, Sagittarias,
Luffa acutangula, &;. We noticed a plant of
Brocchinia cordylinoides, a rare Bromeliad intro-
duced to Britain in 1888. In the natural habitat
of the plant, the Utricularias are found growing in
the axils of the leaves that closely wrap the stem.
There is a very fine plant of Norantea guianensis
in the Palm-house, but it has not flowered. Big-
nonia purpurea, figured in these columns from
Cambridge last year, furnishes one of the pillars,
and although it has not flowered, the specimen of
Kendrickia Walkeri, presented by Sir J. Hooker
some years ago, is probably the finest in this
country. Richardia Rehmanni, which has been
descrihed as the pink flowered Calla, was in bloom,
but it is a very disappointing plant here as else-
where, and the suspicion of pink is an extremely
faint one.

The Ferneries. — There are three Fern-houses,
containing respectively warmth - loving species,
those of cooler habitats, and the Filmies. The last-
named are in splendid condition, and include fine
specimens of Todea Moorei, the Killarney Fern,
and other species. In regard to the Ferns gene-
rally, the collection is especially rich in species,
rather than in varieties, but many of the more
distinct of varieties are there.

In the cool division we noticed nice specimens of
the interesting water-plants Isoetes lacustris and
Eriocaulon septangulare (the Pipe-Wort), both of
them growing a few inches below the surface of the
water.

Succulent-house. — There is a very fine collection
of succulent plants, and these are exclusively the
occupants of two of the structures. We noticed a
magnificent example of Epiphyllum Giirtneri ; it
was grafted along the stem of a Pereskia that
reached a considerable distance up the rafter of the
house, and the growths of the Epiphyllum are
better than we have ever seen this plant. There
are several capital plants of Stapelia gigautea, but
unfortunately they were not in bloom. Senecio
Gunnisii is an exceptionally curious species, the
growths being quite snake-like in form ; it has
au erect flower-spike and red blossoms. Mr.
Lynch said that this plant is to be figured in the
Botanical Magazine shortly, as is also a wbite-
Howered, rather insignificant - looking Crassula
named C. abyssinica. There were many other
interesting plants in this house as in the others.

The Conservatory. — Although decorative gar-
dening is not the primary consideration in a
botanic garden, and Mr. Lynch's aims are in
sympathy with those of the botanist, lie had a
very gay conservatory. Amongst other plants in
bloom or with fine foliage, were Pelargoniums,
Ixias, Babianas.Tritonias, ArisoomaB, Hippcastrums,
some of the newer Cannas, Celsias, Exacum atfine,
Tropajolums, &e. Some of Mr. Lynch's hybrid
Cinerarias were here, and in other houses. We
have already figured some of these, and a batch of
them are now in cultivation for exhibition at the
hybrid conference to be held at Chiswick in July.

The Store. —In this structure we noticed, among
a general collection of plants, very good specimens
of Caladiums, Dracaena Godseftiana, Asparagus
Sprengeri, Hamanthus, Acalypha hispida, and
Begonia x President Carnot, a carmine - rose
flowered variety, raised, we believe, by Oro/.y,
from B. Olga and B. coccinea. It is one of the
most handsome of shrubby Begonias, and cannot lie
too strongly recommended for cultivation in a green-
house with an intermediate temperature.

Orchid-house. — The collection of Orchids is not
very extensive, but includes a considerable number
of the most ornamental species and others interest-
ing to the botanical student. At the entrance
Mr. Lynch has erected in cork an imitation of a
tree, and from this some of the epiphytal species
are suspended ; and Tillandsias grow in pockets
that occur on the branches. When Cattleya
citrina and other species are in bloom no doubt
a pretty effect can be thus obtained. In the
same house is cultivated a very good collection of

Nepenthes and other pitcher-plants ; there were
particularly good specimens of N. Curtisii, N. Veil-
lardi, remarkable for having a white line under the
ring of the pitcher ; and N. Mastersiana. The
Sarraceniaceous plant, Heliamphora nutans, was
observed under a glass case. It is a herbaceous
perennial plant, with radical, tubular leaves, having
a somewhat oblique mouth, lined with deflexed
hairs. The flowers are borne upon a scape, and are
nearly white.

The Out-of-door Grounds. — The gardens, which
are some 17 acres in extent, possess many interesting
and gratifying features. The Bog-garden for
instance, a photograph of which was reproduced in
Gardeners' Chronicle, November 4, 1882, contains
and is surrounded by many plants of botanical
interest suitable to such conditions as the dampness
affords, and the rockery, figured at same time, is
attended to with the same care given to the plants
indoors. Conifers not unnaturally refuse to thrive
at Cambridge, but there are exceptions to this,
Biota pendula aud Sciadopitys verticillata are
capital specimens. By the side of the lake we
noticed Asimina triloba, the North American
Papaw, apparently thriving well ; and also near to
the lake were the Toothworts, Lathrea squamaria,
aud the less common L. clandestina in flower. The
first-named species is common in certain localities
in Britain, including the Cardiff district of South
Wales, where we have seen scores of the racemes in
the pleasure-grounds of Cardiff Castle. L. clande-
stina is found chiefly in the West and South of
France, and is usually upon the roots of the Willow.
It has a racemose inflorescence and erect flowers,
differing from the other species in having a longer
lip to the corolla, aud angled seeds. It is figured
iu Bot. Mar/., t. 7106, and the differences are
there described as very considerable. In colour the
flowers are pale violet, and are prettier than those
of L. squamaria. At Kew and at Cambridge,
L. Clandestina is growing upon the roots of a
Willow.

Not far from the lake is a Bamboo-garden, and
this is also of much interest, being the forerunner
of larger but similar developments elsewhere.

Carex paniculata, with its curious stem of
closely-bound roots, and many kiuds of bulbous
and other plants, are to be seen in the Wild-
garden.

But our time did not permit of us dwelling longer
amidst the beauty of the grounds ; and returning
again towards the glass structures, our attention
was attracted to a number of the more hardy
succulents, growing amid some stones around the
walls of the house. Agave utahensis has been in
this position for niueteen years. Opnntia Engel-
manni, too, was present in extra good specimens.

Mr. R. Irwin Lynch in September next will have
been at Cambridge twenty years, and is, of course,
au old "Kewite." How he has succeeded in main-
taining the tradition and in increasing the reputa-
tion of these gardens is shown by the great
esteem in which he is held by all connected
with the University, and by visitors to his most
interesting establishment.

Since Mr. Lynch removed to Cambridge, the
whole of the well appointed glass structures at the
present time existent there have been erected, and
excepting certain features of the Palm-house aud
temperate-house, these have been built iu every
detail in accordance with desigus prepared by him.

The collection of plants at Cambridge contains
about one -fourth of all known genera, and in
recent years a very large number of new species
have been figured from there in the Botanical
Magazine and in our own pages. Indeed, what has
been achieved at Cambridge in twenty years, can
only be fully appreciated by those who were
acquainted with the gardens previous to 1S80, and
who, therefore, can compare the conditions that
then obtained with those so much admired now.
That the botanical requirements of the University
are fully met may be judged when it is stated that
there were furnished from the gardens duriug last
year as many as 137,000 specimens.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

ODONTOGLOSSUM HALLI.

Two distinct sections of this fine Ecuadorean
Odoutoglossum, the one having a white ground-
colour to the lip and the other a yellow ground, are
easily distinguishable ; but in each section the
variation is also very remarkable, and the fact has
been well demonstrated by the several extraordinary
forms which have bloomed iu the collection of
Joseph Broome, Esq., Sunny Hill, Llandudno (gr.,
Mr. Axtell), who again sends some beautiful
examples, one of which is remarkable not only for
its great size and fine colour, but for marked
structural difference in the form of the labellum,
which is 2 inches in leugth and 1 inch across. A
striking feature of the lip is the comparative
narrowness of the base, and the dilatation of the
front portion into an almost cordate blade, fringed
in the usual manner. The sepals are purplish-
chocolate tipped with yellow, and with a few yellow
markings. The petals are yellow, with numerous
reddish chocolate - coloured spots, which become
larger towards the clear yellow apex. The lip is of
a yellow tint, with some red markings on the spiny
crest ; a loug, irregular blotch of dark red colour
runs down the centre, and a chain of red markings
inside the yellow margin.

It is satisfactory to find exceptionally rare
varieties in Mr. Broome's collection, as they are
not likely to be lost, a fact proved by the presence
in his collection of the original plant of Odontc-
glossum crinitum which furnished the late Pro-
fessor Reichenbach with the first living flowers sent
many years ago by Mr. Broome from his collection
at Didsbury, Manchester.

Saccolabicm ampullaceum and S. curvifolium.
Neither cf these species are so showy as S.
retusum or S. guttatum gigauteum, with their
lengthened spikes of white and rosy-purple shell-
like flowers. Still, S. curvifolium with its scarlet-
orange flowers, borne on erect spikes, reaching in
some cases S to 10 inches in height, is by no means
valueless in the Orchid-house. S. ampullaceum
when well growu has dense, erect, densely-flowered
racemes, 6 to 8 inches long, and the beautiful
deep rose colour makes them very attractive
These two species flower in May and June, and by
careful management the flowers will remain
perfectly fresh for three or four weeks, and no
harm will be done to the plants by permitting the
blooms to remain for that length of time. These
species are best when grown iu baskets, with but
little moss about them, and suspended from the
roof of the East India-house, in a part where the
light is fairly strong, but at the same time free
from direct sunshine. I have found these plants
succeed where the air was fairly dry ; aud the
moss or compost in the basket should not be kept
in a constantly wet state. If they were grown
in a Croton-house or Pine-stove, and shaded from
direct sunshine, I am sure many who now have
small or dwindling plants would find them
strengthen considerably. Of S. curvifolium, there
is a yellow form, not, iu my opinion, so good as the
original ; and of S. ampullaceum there is a variety
uamed moulmeinense, that has larger flowers of an
inteuse rose colour, set on longer aud more dense
spikes. The leaves of this variety are dark green,
furnished with mauy small spots of brown, chiefly
found on the upper sides of the leaves. W. S.,
Exmouth.

ASTER NANSHANICUS.

Tins lovely Aster (fig. 120, p. 331), described by
C. Winkler, from north-western China, flowers from
June until late iu October. It is the earliest of this
group, so far as 1 know of. The rays are pale lilac,
like those of Aster alpiuus, and the disc is of a bright
yellow tint. The plant, which is much branched,
grows about 2 feet high, and of the same diameter.
It flowers in a loamy soil, as well in the brightest
sun as in the shade of large trees. Seedlings from
June sowings flower the next summer. The small
rays may, I think, by due selection, become broader,
as it is a species that varies very much. I T. Dammer.

Mat 27; 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

331

SOME NEW KHODODENDEONS.

Rhododendron dilatatum. — This species is ono
of the Azalea section of the genus, and is one of tho
latest new plants introduced from Japan. It
flowered at Kew in the spring of 1898, but not
well ; this year, however, it has improved, and wo
are bow enabled to judge better of its value. It

in the present species they are glabrous, but fur-
nished with scattered glands ; whilst in R. rhom-
bicum they are covered with greyish hairs. In
garden value this species will, no doubt, equal the
very beautiful but still rare R. rhombicum, of
which a tine speoimen is now charmingly in flower
at Kew. It is remarkable that two species bearing
so close a resemblance to each other should differ

way of St. Petersburg. It is oue of the true
evergreen Rhododendrons, and appears to have
been collected first by Przewalski in the Kansu
province of China, in 1872. It has not yet
flowered here, but its flowers are white, and pro-
duced twelve to fifteen together in a corymbose
raceme, the corolla being campanulate, with five
roundish emarginate lobes. The calyx is small

FlG. 1-20. — ASTER NANSHANICtTS (C WINKLER). NAT. SIZE. (SEE P. 330.)

greatly resembles R. (or Azalea) rhombicum, and
the Japanese botanists have confounded the two
species under one name. It has the same rhom-
boidal or lozeuge-shaped deciduous leaves, arranged
in verticils of three, and the flowers are of the
same shade of bluish-purple, but they are larger in
R, dilatatum, and about 2.J inches across, appear
three weeks earlier, and above all, they are dis-
tinguished by the stamens, numbering five, to each
flower ; whereas in R. rhombicum there are always
ten. Another distinction is afforded by the capsules :

so markedly in the number of stamen3 — a character
on which the older botanists relied for differen-
tiating Azalea and Rhododendron. R. dilatatum is
a native of the Senano province of Japan. A figure
of it has been made for the Botanical Magazine.

R. Przewalski. — The number of species of
Chinese Rhododendrons unknown to cultivation
in this country, except by dried specimens,
is very great ; almost every year sees one or
more added to our collections. Quite recently
this species has been introduced to Kew by

and glabrous. The leaves are leathery, and 3 to
5 iuches in length, and the species attains a large
size. Of its possible value in gardens nothing can
yet be said, but it is doubtless quite hardy. It
may be interesting to place its introduction on
record.

R. rubiginosum. — One of the names that will
always be intimately associated with the discovery
and introduction of Chinese Rhododendrons is that
of the Abbe^ Delavay. It is to him that the credit
of the first discovery of this species belongs. He

332

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Mat 27, 1899.

found it about fifteen years ago on the Tsang-chan
mountain iu Yunnan, China, at an elevation of
S,200 feet above sea-level. It flowered for the first
time at Kew last year, when it was figured in the
Botanical Magazine, t. 7621. It is just now pass-
ing out of flower for the second time, and, judging
by this year's experience, it promises to be a really
useful addition. The plant is at present a bush
2 feet to 3 feet high, of compact and rounded
habit, the leaves being 2^ inches to 3 inches
long, dark and glossy above, but covered
thickly beneath with rust- coloured scales. The
flowers appear iu small, terminal trusses of four to
eight blooms, the funnel-shaped corolla being
2 inches across, rosy-lilac, spotted with maroon.
During the middle and latter part of April it was
literally one mass of flower, and was not injured
in the least by frost. It has much the same
stature and general character as the North
Americau U. punctatum, but comes into flower
some weeks earlier. This year it outrivalled all
the dwarf Rhododendrons flowering at the same
time out of doors.

E, yunnanense. — Of all the new Chinese Rhodo-
dendrons that have yet flowered in this country,
it is probably R. racemosum, shown so prettily
every spring by Messrs. Veitch, that takes one's
fancy most ; but next to that, I think this species
is the most attractive. As its name indicates, it
comes from the Chinese province of Yunnan,
where it was discovered by Delavay. It is just
coming into flower now for the third time at Kew,
but owing to insufficient material in the herbarium
there, was not identified till last year, when M.
Frauchet recognised it as the species described by
himself from Delavay's dried material, and named
as above. It is a shrub with slender branches, and
is rather thin and open in habit. The leaves,
which average from 2 to 3| inches in length, are
lanceolate, the upper surface being furnished with
short, bristly hairs, and the lower one, which is
somewhat glaucous, with glandular dots. The
flowers are iu a terminal corymb, four to six
together, each flower 2 inches across, of the most
delicate lilac shade, marked with two clusters of
blood-red spots. This Rhododendron may become
popular in time, for it is evidently quite hardy,
cau be increased easily by cuttings, and has a deli-
cate beauty quite distinct from any other. It is at
its best during the latter part of May. Jr. J. Bean,

South African Notes.

JOHANNESBURG

{Continued from p. 293.)

Ten years ago, when these gold fields began to
develop, new-comers beheld a tract of country as
flat as Salisbury PlaiD, and quite destitute of
timber trees, for the only trees the old Boer settlers
planted were Weeping Willows, and these close to
their houses. It was reported to be too cold for
Australian trees, and some hesitation was felt in
planting them. Beginning with a few Gums and
Wattles, these grew so well, that soon large plan-
tations were set out, with the result that there are
to-day millions of thriving trees, 50 to 70 feet high,
which have already giveu a considerable return in
firewood and fencing -posts. This is very much
better than burning dry cow-dung, which was the
primitive Dutch fuel.

The growth of some trees is very remarkaMi1.
Recently I thinned out a small plantation of
Eucalyptus viminalis, which I planted five years
ago at 6 feet apart, the young soedliugs being then
0 inches high. I carefully measured one tree ; it
was 00 feet high, and 1 foot iu diameter close to the
ground. The Blue Gum does not grow quite so fast
as this, but I believe the timber is more valuable.
The Silver and Black Wattle and Blackwood, viz.,
Acacia dealbata, A. mollissima, aud A. melanoxylon
also do well and soon grow into timber, but it
is rather cold for Grevillea robusta and Casuariua
tenuissima. Amongst Pines, P. insignis comes first

in rapid growth and perfect health, then follow
P. Pinaster aud P. halepeusis, but Pinus pinea does
not seem happy, and P. sylvestris refuses to grow.
Larches, Spruces, Yews, and Silver Firs are not suc-
cessful— the air seems too dry for them. Nearly
all the Cypress tribe thrive, particularly C. macro-
carpa and C. Lawsoniana, but tender species like
funebris are very slow. Junipers do well, particu-
larly J. bermudiaua. [What is this '! Ed.] Cedrus
Deodara makes a very fine tree indeed ; if our
Government ever establishes State forests this is a
tree which should be largely planted. Sequoia
gigantea does very well, yet, strauge to say, in the
warmer parts of Natal it is a failure. Japan Conifers
do not seem at home in our dry air, but most
American aud Chinese Arbor- vitte promise well. I
have not seen an Araucaria imbricata or a Cedar
of Lebanon, but a few large Cuuninghamia sinensis
are to be met with ; Taxodium sempervirens and
T. distichum grow very slowly.

Of deciduous trees, the English Oak does very
well if sheltered from wind when young. American
Oaks are just being tried. Ashes, Birches, Maples,
Ailanthus, Flaues, Alders, Paulownias, Catalpas,
Walnuts, Tulip-trees, Poplars, and Elms we find
grow fairly well if care be taken to alt'ord them a
deep and somewhat moist soil. Beeches, Limes,
and the Horse-Cbestnut do not thrive. The Spanish
Chestnut promises very well. It must be borne in
mind that the above remarks apply to my own
locality, which is 6000 feet above sea-level. Lower
down very mauy valuable timber - trees could, I
have no doubt, be grown with success. So far as
tested, the timber grown here is dense and hard,
aud mauy of the trees bear good seed in quantity at
an early age.

In the low "veld," between 2000 ft. aud 4000 ft.
elevation, great natural forests of evergreen-leaved
sub-tropical trees are still found, comprising such
genera as l'odocarpus, Calodeudrou, Bauhinia,
Olea, Oreodaphne, Myrsine, &c. ; but these would
never withstand our severe winter.

The Transvaal is somewhat larger than Great
Britain and Ireland, yet outside a ten-mile radius
from where this is written the country is little
better than a wilderness, except iu a few spots
where intelligent men have settled. I have for
the last eighteen months iu the columns of our
leading paper urged the Government to estab-
lish state forests ; but no one seems to pay the
slightest attention, and, like Deau Hole in his
Bool; about Roses, 1 have been "perplexed and
pained by their dogged, strange reluctance to follow
the very best advice."

When the old Boer settlers began to "trek " into
this country, sixty years ago, from the Cape Colony,
they brought in their wagons Apricot, Peach, and
Almond-stoues I but no Plums or Cherries), Fig, and
Apple and Pear suckers, Quince, Pomegranate, and
Vine cuttings, and forthwith they planted aud
watered the same. The result I have seen in old
orchards — seedling Apricot and Almond-trees, from
whose trunks you could cut 12-inch planks ; but the
fruit is very small, and inferior in quality. I have
seen Fig-trei :s of such a size as would astonish even
a Californian fruit - grower. Seedling Peaches,
yellow, white, aud red-cheeked, bearing very large
and delicious fruit. Apples of very inferior varie-
ties, but the trees growing to a huge size. Hedges
of Quinces aud Pomegranates bear superlatively
flue fruit. There are no Plums or Cherries, and
very few Nectarines. Huge Pear-trees of one
variety only — Safl'rano or Cape Saffron. Lastly,
there are one or two hardy varieties of Vines, whose
fruits are able to withstand the rains, which fall
at a time when the berries begin to colour.

An Oi'i'iinxtTNiTV for Development.
Thus it will be seen that there is vast room for
improvement, for until about ten years ago grafted
fruit-trees were seldom planted in this country. A
new race has entered tbe Transvaal, who ask for,
and are willing to pay good prices for, really good
fruit, yet to-day we see iu our shops Cape Plums,
Californian Prunes, American - canned Peaches,

Australian jams, and even Tasmanian Apples,
which last are retailed at 3s. per dozen ! Again
and again I have urged by example and precept
the introduction of a better class of fruits, such as
Japau Plums, Californian Prunes, improved hybrids
of North American Grapes, Persimmons, and good-
worked varieties of Peaches, Plums, Pears and
Apricots, but up to now I cannot see that much is
being done. The above - named fruits thrive iu
the higher and colder parts of the Transvaal ;
further north, and between 2000 feet and
4000 feet elevation, Lemons, Mandarine and
other Oranges, Citrons, Gourds, Custard-apples,
Loquats, Melons, and Tree-Tomatos bear abun-
dantly. Lower down, again, near Barberton, at
1000 to 2000 feet, we find Bananas, Pine-apples,
Mangos, and every tropical fruit. In this locality,
owing to the severe winters, insect pests are not
very troublesome.

In everything that relates to the collection and
spreadiug of information about fruit-culture— for
instance, what is being done in California aud
Australia — we are living in the dark ages. There
is not a botanic garden, model farm, experimental
station, fruit-growers' association, farming or gar-
dening paper in the Transvaal. The methods of the
old Dutch fruit-growers are primitive enough to
raise a smile of compassion from father Adam. At
the Cape, considerable efforts are being made —
in which Mr. Rhodes is taking a good share — to
raise a superior class of fruits to supply the
European winter market, i.e., from December to
April. We have no such high ambitions at present ;
the object being to supply the local demand, which
is the best in South Africa. I commend fruit-
growing to the attention of practical men who
think of coming to this country.

Wonderful as the progress of the Transvaal has
been during the last ten years, yet really and truly
it has only been scratched over. Very much of the
mineral wealth has been untouched, whilst its hor-
ticultural resources are still lying dormant. It is a
country of infinite capabilities, and those who have
known it longest have the greatest faith iu its
future, in spite of the unsatisfactory state of
politics at the present time, if, W, Adlam, Joubert
Pari;, Johannesburg, Transvaal.

KEW NOTES.

Hiri'EASTRUM Arechavalet.*. — A new species
of Hippeastrum was described by Mr. Baker in the
Kew Bulletin last year, p. 226, from material
supplied by M. Cantera of Montevideo, Uruguay.
A plant of it is now in flower in tbe T range at
Kew, and a figure will shortly be published iu the
Botanical Magazine, lu general characteristics it
comes very near H. vittatum, as figured in the
Botanical Magazine, t. 129(1790). The only dif-
ference I can see is in the margins of the segments
being crimped in H. vittatum, whilst iu H.
Arechavaleta? (a terrible name !) they are plain.
The plant at Kew has a round dark brown bulb,
2 inches in diameter, a short, thick neck, and six-
leaves, 18 inches long by lj inch wide. The scape
is cylindrical, glaucous-green, 2 feet high, and it
bears an umbel of three flowers ; pedicels, 1A inch
long ; corolla narrow, funnel-shaped, 4 inches long,
'2\ inches across the mouth, white, with a pair of
broad broken bands of crimson running parallel
almost from base to apex of each segment. It is a
pretty plant, although it falls short of the breeder's
ideal of a good garden Hippeastrum. The name is
in compliment to Professor Arechavaleta, a botanist
in Montevideo.

Clianthus DaMI'IERI.
A plant of this beautiful greenhouse shrub is now
flowering freely at Kew, where it is plauted in a
border of light loamy soil, and the stems trained
against the roof -glass in an airy, sunny greenhouse.
It has grown here with exceptional vigour, cover-
ing a space a yard square in less than two years,
aud it is now bearing a dozen large bunches of
flowers. Usually this plant is grown in a pot of

May 27, 1899.]

THE GARDENER S' CTIR 0 NI CL E.

333

sandy-peat soil, but it rarely grows to flowering size,
owing, it is thought, to its objection to anything
like a heavy watering. Judging by the behaviour
of this Kew plant, what it likes is plenty of root-
room, and that uniformity of conditions which can
be easily supplied in a well-drained border. In the
same house and under the same conditions, the
beautiful Californiau Lathyrus splendens, figured
in the Qardeners' Chronicle, 1897, vol. xxi., p. 315,
has been a success for three years, and is again now
flowering freely. W. W.

GUNNERSBURY PARK and HOUSE.

The two domains, Gunnersbury House and
Gunnersbury Park, Acton, are now substantially
one. This is a reversion, no doubt, to the order of
things which prevailed at the time when the
Princess Amelia occupied them. The original
mansion occupied by the princess was built for the
celebrated Serjeant Maynard in 1663 by Webb, a
pupil of Inigo Jones. In 1761, it was purchased
for the Princess Amelia, after whose death it was
sold in 1788, and some years afterwards it was
entirely pulled down. It may be assumed that
Webb's mansion occupied a site a little way north
or east of the present mansions, and, perhaps,
midway between the two, for the old wine-cellars,
still intact, occupy some such position, but nearest
to Gunnersbury House.

After the removal of the original mansion, the
estate appears to have been divided, and oue por-
tion—about seventy acres— passed into the posses-
sion of Alexauder Copland, Esq., who erected a
villa, "surrounded by extensive and ornamental
gardens and pleasure-grounds, which comprise
about seventy acres.'' This would appear to have
been the Gunnersbury Park, which subsequently
became the property of Baron Lionel do Rothschild,
who made considerable additions to the estate by
subsequent purchases, and laid out a very largo
piece of ornamental ground, extending almost to
Kew Bridge, and which is now known as the
Potomac. The other portion of the estate, presum-
ably that occupied by the mansion and grounds of
Gunnersbury House, became the property of
Stephen Cosser, Esq., who erected a villa about
1810. Eventually it passed into the possession of
Thomas Farmer, Esq., who was formerly the Trea-
surer of the Wesleyan Missionary Society, and on
the west side of the mansion ho erected a hall as a
museum, and filled it with mementos of missionary
operations. H. J. Atkinson, Esq., married a Miss
Farmer, and sold the estate to the Rothschild family.

An Ivy-clad brick wall which divided the two
estates has now been removed, and the carriage-
drive from the main entrance in Gunnersbury Lane
to Gunnersbury Park is extended in an eastern
direction, and by means of a bold curve is continued
to and unites with the drive to and from Gunners-
bury House, which has both entrance and exit on
the east side, and so a complete carriage connection
between the two mansions is secured. The con-
struction of this drive demanded the removal
of many large shrubs and some trees, but the
subjects removed have been utilised in other parts
of the grounds. Beyond the ornamental water on
the Gunnersbury House side, Mr. Hudson has
made an imposing garden of semi-aquatics, and
carried out other improvements in various parts,
now approaching completion.

The effect of these improvements, in the direction
of adding seeming extent to the grounds of both
the park and the house, is something astonishing.
To one standing upon the terrace of the mansion of
(iunuersbury Park, and looking eastward, the
grounds of Gunnersbury House appear to reach
away to an unlimited extent, because the
wall forming the eastern boundary is quite
hidden from view ; an unbroken carpet of verdant
lawn stretches away to the boundary on every
hand. One stauding on the terrace of Gunnersbury
House notices the same, only that the vista is
longer and wider to the eye. Fine trees that were
hiddeu from view by an undergrowth of shubbery

are now individualised. Mr. Reynolds has worked
out, on his side, certain details of improvements,
that small in themselves yet largely assist the
general effect. One result of these improvements
is that Gunnesbury will become the residence of
members of the Rothschild family for some portion
of each year.

In reference to matters of practical gardening,
both places are full of interest. Mr. Reynolds is
making an experiment with plants of Tropreolum
speciosum in pots, for the purpose of training
them on trellises. May he succeed in flowering it
abundantly !

The Peach -wall, in a line with the Fig-cases, has
been covered with glass, and within it there is
promise of good crops.

Evidences of Mr. Reynolds' attention and fore-
thought are met with throughout the pleasure-
grounds. Gunnersbury is seen to great advantage
at all times, but chiefly in May and June. D.

Fruit-trees in Pots at Gtnnersbi-ry Hoise
and Syon House.

Recently I made a visit to Gunnersbury House,
in order specially to gratify my curiosity in regard
to the fruit-trees in pots. "This has been ," said
Mr. Hudson, " the worst season for the setting of
fruit that I have ever experienced, and this, too,
with a mild winter, which is difficult to under-
stand by those who do not force fruit very early,
and have a much clearer atmosphere to deal with
than that of West London." I have no wish to
publish my own failures, but when whole houses of
Vines and reaches are lost during a few days' fog,
it will be understood that it is not a happy position
to be in ; " and I was rather anxious to see how Mr.
Hudson's pot-trees had fared. The earlier-forced
trees this season are not carrying nearly so good a
crop as in former years. The trees were full of
bloom, but it failed to set satisfactorily. For this
reason, the Gunnersbury House fruit-trees will not
appear at the Temple Show. Now, had this show
been some weeks later, there could have been a
grand lot of trees staged from thence, as these later-
flowering trees were not affected by fogs.

In the earliest house the new Nectarine Cardinal
is the favourite variety, and some of the trees had
been cleared of their fruits ; still, as a whole the crops
on the various trees were lighter than usual. There
is a fine lot of trees of this variety, and there can lie
little doubt as to its good qualities as a forcer, but
it is not proof against weeks of foggy weather. In
this locality we suffer much in January and February
with fogs, which in the latter month cause much loss
of bloom on Peach and Nectarine trees, and cause
the bunches of Grapes to curl up, and turn of a
yellow tinge. Unfortunately, as late as March 28
we had in this locality fogs, the last one destroying
a large houseful of Muscat Grapes at Syon just as
they were coming into flower. The splendid tree
of Lord Napier Nectarine at Gunnersbury House,
which fills a forcing-house, is not nearly so good as
usual owing to the fogs and lack of light ; and the
earliest Peach-trees in pots at that place have
suffered similiarly. The best this year are early
Grosse Mignonne and Dr. Hogg; the latter though
not a very early variety is much liked for pot-
culture, and is very fine in later houses. As a
variety that withstands hard forcing without
injury, Early Beatrice is excellent here, although
when grown at Syon in the open air I do not like
it, the fruits being too small, and prefer Waterloo.
With the high cultivation afforded pot-trees in
general, Mr. Hudson gets remarkably early nice
fruits of this variety. In the early-house, which
has a spau roof, a shelf of Auguste Nicaise
Strawberries was noted in full crop with fruits
mostly ripe — and such Strawberries ! many of them
weighing 2 ounces apiece.

Leaving this house I entered a Cherry-house filled,
with trees in pots. The later varieties were ripe,
and though affected by lack of sunlight the trees
had blossomed during a spell of fine weather, and
were comparatively none the worse ; the trees were
very fine ones. Bigarreau de Schreken is much

liked here, and some of the fruits were as large
as Walnuts, and good in colour; Governor Wood,
a grand cropper, is grown largely ; and the trees
of Early Rivers, which is much liked, were
cleared of fruits. Guigne Annonay is considered
to be one of the best forcing black Cherries,
a very rich-flavoured fruit. Of other varieties
I may mention Frogmore, Early Bigarreau, and
Emperor Francis, the latter a very fine Bigar-
reau. In this house some trees had been planted
at the foot of the pillars supporting the roof, so as
to train them in cordon form along the ridges of the
house. These trees will not obstruct the light, and
they will be profitable. In the second early house
were splendid trees of Plum, Peach, and Nectarine.
The varieties of Plum are Early Rivers, the fruit
of which was nearly ripe and the crop excellent ;
others consisted of Jefferson, Early Transparent
Gage, and Reine Claude de Bavay, also a Gage, all
of which will be ripe shortly. Plums are certainly
reliable fruits under pot-culture, blooming as tbey
do at different periods. There is a row of Early
Rivers Nectarine trees occupying one side of the
house, quite youug trees, averaging twelve fine fruits
cpiece. In this house, the varieties Pine-apple,
Humboldt, Advance, Rivers' Orange, and Victoria,
the first-named being the favourite late variety.
Dr. Hogg Peach is largely grown, and good
crops were noted of Sea Eagle, Early Mignonne,
Crimson Galande, and the Nectarine Peach, the
two latter being much liked for late use. A
Strawberry-house divides the next or later division
of trees in pots, and the plants were finishing a
heavy crop of fruit. Royal Sovereign, though not
so large as the Auguste Nicaise, carried a fine even
crop ; and Vicomtesse Hericart du Thury is grown
in some quantity for its fine flavour.

The trees in the late house are just as remark-
able for their heavy crop of fruit as tho earliest
is for their light one. I noted Ickworth Impera-
trice, Late Transparent, Late Rivers, Golden
Drop, Grand Duke, Monarch, Guthrie's Late,
and Coldeu Esperen. The Peaches most notice-
able were Nectarine, Sea Eagle, Golden Eagle,
Osprey, Barrington, and Stanwick Elruge. Figs
in pots have been ripe since February, and are
a specialty here. Large numbers are forced early
aud late ; the early kinds are nefw making their
growth for the autumn — a remarkably healthy lot
of trees. As most gardeners know, the forced Fig-
tree is apt to get leggy and unsightly, so the gar-
dener at Gunnersbury House cuts them hard back
after the fruiting is over, and places them in a
small house or pit, where, with generous treatment,
they make shapely fruit-bushes, fit for bearing
another season. The St. John and Pingo de Mel
are the varieties employed.

Another house or pit is devoted to other varieties
for fruiting in October to December, tho varieties
being Negro Largo, Nubian, Grosse Verte, and
Bourjassotte Grise, all robust and healthy trees.
A north house or lean-to is filled with Pear aud
Apple-trees in pots, and this house is also used at
times for retarding fruits. I noted fine trees of Pit-
maston Duchesse, Doyeune du Cornice, Princess,
Marie Louise d'Uccle, &c, well set with fruits.

No note on pot-trees would be complete without
referring to the splendid lot of fruiting Vines in
pots. I have never seen better Foster's Seedling,
aud the canes had carried a heavy crop of bunches.
The Black Hamburghs were good. G. Wythe*.

CORFU.

The following communication contains the im-
pressions of a member of the medical profession
who made a pleasure-trip to the island in March
last, which may be of interest to some of our
readers. "We may premise that the people, although
for a long period of time they have been in con-
nection with us, are very simple in their mode of
life, aud hotel or other accommodation away from
the town of Corfu is, according to western ideas,
non-existent. Those who are not prepared to
exist on the simplest fare would do wisely to take

334

THE GAS BE NEBS' CHBONICLE.

[May

1899.

sufficient stores with them to suffice for the leugth
of their stay, and some one to cook the food, if they
do not care to undertake to do that themselves.
The climate in the early months of the year is very
pleasant, but the nights are cool, and even some
snow fell during the visitor's stay. The sleeping
arrangements leave much to be desired, the bedding
which is generally obtainable having been found
very insufficient during the cold weather prevailing
in early spring.

"The island of Corfu is divided into three zones
by two ranges of mountains, rising about 2000 feet
above sea level, rocky and naked. The greatest
breadth is twenty miles, and the length thirty-eight
miles. The valleys show great fertility, and they
are watered by many streams. The southern zone
is sparsely populated, and nothing bnt Olives, a
few Orange trees, Vines, and Myrtle were noted.
Daisies, Lilies, and much Holly were plants that
are found everywhere. The northern zone we did
not go into, but I should think it was very similar
to the southern from what we saw from the sea,
and looking down from the northern range of hills,
excepting that it is more mountainous. The central
part, in which is the principal town of Corfu, is
much the more level, thickly populated, and fertile.
The chief features were a great many Orange
groves, Olive plantations, and Junipers were
remarked ; Aloes and prickly Pear (Opuntias)
forming the hedges ; the Fig, Almond, Eucalyptus
Globulus, which does very well, wild Roses, Ericas,
Date Palms (these do not fruit), Cacti, Arums,
Hyacinths, Violets, Lilies, Holly, Ivy, Nasturtiums,
and Pinks. Lombardy Poplars and Plane trees
were remarked. The vegetables consisted of Cauli-
flowers, Potatos, Lettuce, and Globe Artichokes.
The town was planted with trees which grew well,
but there was none along the country roads.

" We noted but little gardening in the town or
suburbs. A few gardens were noticed in which
were Roses, Bananas, Strawberries, Hyacinths, Ar-
butus, Myrtle, and Stocks. No window-boxes or
creepers on the walls of the houses were observed.

" In the royal gardens, which are under the
management of Chevalier Josef Bouzzai, were noted
the following as trees or bushes : — Laurus nobilis,
Mespilus japonica, Pittosporum Tobira, Oleanders,
Robinias, Arbutus Unedo, Chamairops humilis,
Cedrus Libani, Populus discolor [?], Thuia pli-
eata[7], T. pyramidalis, Araucaria imbricata, Ailau-
thus glandulosa, and other common subjects. We
spent a fortnight very pleasantly in exploring much
of the island, and would recommend it to those
who miy be contemplating a short outing, as being
at the least for the present out of the ordinary
track of the tourist."

Tramways Compauy for the maintenance of sundry
long roads by the use of granite setts, the whole
area would be laid down in blocks of the above
material. Doubtless an early agreement will be
arrived at by which Australia will win, and granite
setts be put aside. E. C.

AUSTRALIAN v. SWEDISH
TIMBER.
"Once upon a time," writes a correspondent,
" being engaged in getting up figures respecting
the use of Australian timber in this country for road-
paving, I applied to a certain Agent-General, who
suavely referred me to a timber-merchant in the
East-End, as being the gentleman entrusted with tho
business of that department for this country. 'He
would furnish me with all the information that
could be given ; ' and so it came to pass that it was
soon found no information would be given ; it was
not to the advantage of the firm in question to fur-
nish such figures, and so forth. Occasionally, how-
ever, we— in spite almost of the Board of Trade
Returns — get at the value of Australian timber
used here as compared with Swedish ; and only the
other day the St. Pancras Vestry issued a report,
concerning, among other matters, the use of Aus-
tralian wood in the streets of that parish. It
appears that, seven years since, a large portion of
the Euston Road was paved in sections with Swedish
and Kauri Pine-blocks ; but the Swedish blocks
broke up so rapidly, that they had to make way for
the Jarrah timber. It is found that the hard Aus-
tralian wood lasts longer, and decreases splashing.
Were it not that an agreement exists with the

SUMMER-QUARTERS for CERTAIN
EXOTIC PLANTS.

As a means of ensuring clean and healthy growth
of many of the larger exotic plants, a great deal
may be said for the practice of growing them in
the open, when the temperature outside permits of
doing this without injury to them.

Palms aud strong-growing greenhouse Ferns are
much benefited by passing a month or two in the
open air. Among Palms which may be treated in this
manner are Traehycarpus excelsus, T. Martiana
(khasyana), Chamajrops humilis, Erythea armata,
Seaforthia elegaus, Livistona chinensis and L. sub-
globosa, Phienix spinosa, P. reclinata, and P. dacty-
lifera. Palm-leaves lose their green colour under
strong sunshine, and need therefore a moderately
shady place. It would be found that if placed in
such a position in the middle of the month of June,
the petioles would be somewhat shorter, but stouter
than those of indoor plants, the leaves broader and
of a dark green hue, aud the plant generally enabled
to withstand with less harm the conditions pre-
vailing in living-rooms throughout the winter. As
many gardeners who grow Palms for dwelling-
house decoration only have high houses for their
Palms, the more compact, stocky growth induced
by open-air treatment is a great advantage.

Ferns, the hardier evergreen species usually
grown for decorative purposes, would " summer ''
outside very satisfactorily if placed under the shade
of trees in a sheltered spot. Asplenium bulbife-
rum, Pteris tremula, P. umbrosa, aud Gleichenias
of sorts, among others, would grow very clean and
hardy, and the vigour they would show would carry
them safely through the winter and spring. Ferns
at Isleworth grown iu this maimer last twice as
long in good condition as those taken direct from
the house. Portable Tree-Ferns would beuetit by
a short stay outside during very hot weather, as it
is no easy matter for the gardener to keep down
the insect pests which affect these plants throughout
the summer. Dicksonias antarctica, Bquarrosa,
and fibrosa, Cyathea medullaris, C. insignis, Also-
phila orinita and excelsa, would all be better able
to stand over the winter if the fronds were exposed
to the open air, and thereby hardened somewhat.
It would not be difficult to find nooks and corners
in most gardens suitable for Tree-Ferns of the
hardier group. Cyatheas and Alsophilas, from
their natural habit of throwing up one or two fronds
at a time, are frequently allowed to grow too late
in the year, so that the fronds cannot thoroughly
mature, and, as a consequence, they either rot or
remain on the plant an eyesore for a consider-
able time ; if moved outside in July or August
for a few weeks, the plants ripen somewhat,
and are cooler beneath the shade of a tree than
if left in the house, unless it is shaded only during
actual sunshine. By the process of ripening, i.e. ,
hardening, the tendeucy to grow late in the year is
considerably lessened. I have watched the Tree-
Ferns at Kew in the temperate-house for three or
four years, and have noticed that if late fronds are
thrown up they rarely develop properly; in two
instances the fronds rotted before they had un-
coiled, owing to the foggy weather prevailing at
the time, and in spite of careful cleaning out of the
decayed frond the stem soon decayed likewise.

Among Orchids, such plants as Vanda Amesiana,
Lajlia anceps, aud Oncidium incurvum do well out-
side, a moderately suuny place for the two former
plants would suit them ; a cool, shady place for the
Oncidium. Oncidium incurvum is perhaps easy to
grow in a cool-house, but to show how much better
it grows outside I give the following measurements :
the plant measures 2 feet through, and produced
eight panicles, averaging from 3 to 4 feet (j inches

in length, with an average of from thirty to fifty
secondary axes, bearing from four to eight flowers
each. Roughly calculated, this would denote about
2000 flowers. It was put out in the latter end of
June, and is generally taken iDside towards the
end of September.

Crinums. — C. scabruni, C. giganteum, C. lati-
folium, C. Moorei, and C. capense all do best
outsido under the shade of a tree (a Weeping Holly
is used for the purpose at Isleworth) ; if grown in
a house the whole of the summer, thrips do a great
deal of damage to them, and it is scarcely possible
to keep them down unless insecticides are used to a
dangerous extent. Under the shade of a tree they
grow well and produce fine flowers. It is not safe
to place them in the open, as on clear cold nights
radiation lowers the temperature to an unsafe
degree, but under a tree radiation is much arrested,
and on the other hand, an excessively high midday
temperature is guarded against by the shade the
tree affords. If thrips prove troublesome outside,
as they have done this past few weeks, it is advis-
able to totally immerse the plants for a few hours.
Places in the front of walls facing south are well
suited for Phyllocactus, Cereus, &c. ; plants iu such
places make stout well-ripened growths which flower
freely, and rambling Cereus do best. The colum-
nar ones, and Echinocactus are liable to injury on
wet days from moisture lodging iu the apex, always
a susceptible spot with them. Many of the de-
corative Aloes, aud the whole genus Agave, would
do in similar places when not too bulky to remove.

Himalayan Rhododendrons, always difficult to
keep cool enough during hot days, would be well
suited if places could be found for them slightly
shaded from strong sunshine and protected from
drying winds by a shrubbery or fence. They grow
much better in the open from June to September.
A skeleton-house is really best for them with only
thin blinds for protection from the sun's rays ;
they are never so happy as when grown in some
old defile in the southern counties, between cliffs,
cool and moist. Rhododendrons, like all the
Ericaceae, dislike a confined atmosphere, aud would
well repay the trouble of placing in some per-
petually-moist aud cool corner of the garden.

The beautiful Tecomas are very difficult to flower
in a house, but if they are grown on one stem and
treated as are Chrysauthenlums, many of tho
plants will flower late in the autumn ; the mealy-
bug trouble with these plants is greatly minimised
by this treatment— in fact, many of the South
African aud Australian hardwooded plauts can only
be grown well summered outside, among these may
be mentioned Eugenias, Pimeleas, Grevilleas, Plum-
bago, Bauksias, Ericas, Mesembryanthemums, and
the large number of Cape-flowering bulbs.

A plot of ground, covered with coal-ashes, fenced
in from observation, and to protect from cold and
drying winds, near a few big trees which would
shade oue portion of it most of the day, would
prove a great boon to any garden for the purpose
of growing plauts during the summer. It is a
practice in our garden to place together the plauts
whose requirements are akin, simply placing them
on the coal-ashes, or plunging them iu the same in
batches by themselves. Geo. B. 3fa/lett, IsUworth.

TREATMENT OF MILDEW ON

VINES.

I have just been successful in stamping out a
very bad attack of mildew on Vines, the remedy
being very hot water. The mildew occurred here
for the first time two years ago, when a Lady
Downes Seedling Vine became seriously affected.
The usual remedies, sulphide of potassium in solu-
tion, dusting with sulphur, &c., stayed its progress
for a time, but it eventually showed itself on most
of the Vines in two vineries before the end of the
seasou.

Last year the usual preventatives were used
freely during the early stages of the Vine's growth,
the pipes were painted with lime and sulphur, and
sulphide of potassium solution was sprayed over

May 27, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

■lit-

000

the leaves and various parts of the houses two or
three times a week till the Vines flowered. It was
then discontinued until flowering was over ; but in
the intervening time mildew made its appearance
all over the Vines in the houses previously affected,
and the case from that stage became hopeless, in
spite of continued syringing with the solution and
dusting with rlowers-ofsulphur, the crop being
completely spoiled,

of 60 yards away, carried quickly to the vineries,
and forcibly applied to the leaves scalding hot,
the operator holding the syringe quite under
the leaves, the barrel of the syringe being enclosed
in a towel to protect the hands. The Vines were
thoroughly soaked twice over, the surfaces of the
borders being lightly watered also, to destroy any
spores that may have fallen there. Singularly
enough, not a leaf or flower was harmed, the young

Fig. 121.- cohtaderia lambleyi foliis variegatis, in mi:

E. Gl'MBLETOB B GARDEN,

Early this year the vineries were thoroughly
cleaned out, the top spits of the borders and walks
were removed and taken away, and new soil re-
placed. The rods of the Vines were painted with
a strong mixture of sulphur and potassium sulphide,
but with little effect, as mildew again broke'out in
several places when the Vines in the early house
bad reached flowering stage. Drastic measures
became necessary, and it was suggested to
me to try hot-water syringed over the plants,
at the risk of killing them outright. Water
was accordingly heated to boiling-point a distance

tender tips were also quite uninjured, whilst
adventitious roots on some of the rods were quite
blackened. Not a trace of living mildew was to be
found the next day, but brown spots on the leaves
showing where it had been were plentiful enough ;
these leaves were removed, and I have not seen a
trace of fungus since. One subsequent application,
especially directed at some Vines of White Tokay,
was given as near boiling-point as was possible to
use it, these Vines having been condemned on
account of insipidity of flavour of the Grapes ;
these also show no signs of harm or check in

growth. Another application was made to catch
any spores that might be lurking about a few days
after the first, in this ease also the Vines came
through the ordeal unscathed. Not only mildew,
but a few examples of mealy-bug which'.had escaped
the winter dressing were also killed. If hot water
kills mealy-bug in this way, why should it not
be effectual in killing Phylloxera, in one or all of
the stages in which it is accessible ? It appears
to be worthy of experiment, either with hot water
or with steam. The Vines experimented upon hers
for mildew were Muscats, Madresrield Court, White
Tokay, and Lady Downes Seedling ; in every case
the Vines are growing freely, and the berries un-
harmed. <!. B. Matlrtt.

CORTADERIA LAMBLEYI
FOLIIS VARIEGATIS.
In regard to this handsome Grass, Mr. W. E. Gum-
bleton, to whom we are indebted for a photograph of
the plant (fig. 121), writes as follows:— "I received
this most distinct and beautiful variety of Pampas
Grass many years ago from a nurseryman under the
above name, for which I never heard any definite
authority, aud do not think I have ever since seen
it offered by anyone else. It is perfectly hardy
here (Queenstown), and of comparatively dwarf
stature, and also of rather slow growth and tardy
development, as though I have had it many years,
it never showed its full beauty till last year.
when it produced about twenty spikes, averaging
.5 feet iu height, and of a most distinct appearance ;
unlike any other variety known to me, its foliage
is also prettily variegated with white."

Variorum.

■ • _

Ramie Cultivation in Korea.— The Ramie
stalk indicates its maturity for good fibre by turn-
ing yellow, and the leaves curl inwards at the end.
In curing, the bark is loosened with the finger-nail
aud is then stripped off with the aid of a bamboo-
knife. This is done as soon as the stock is cut.
As the decortication must be delayed, the stems are
placed in water to prevent drying. This stripping
is chiefly done by the women. The stripped bark
is dried in the shade for several days, and is then
made up into more or less compact bundles for
packing upon pony back. The plant is propagated
by transplanting the small rootlets that spring
from the main root. This is done soon after the
breaking-up of winter. Plants may be raised from
seed, but the above method is preferred, and almost
universally followed in Korea. The cultivation
consists in digging about the plant just enough to
keep it free from weeds ; deep cultivation is not
deemed necessary. There are three cuttings an-
nually, in June, August, and again in September.
Great care has to be exercised in making these cut-
tings, so as not to injure the young shoots that
have s-prung up, and upon which the next crop
depends. Moist, rich loam is the most suitable
soil for its cultivation. Stable-manure is used
as a fertiliser. Warm temperature suits the
plant. The United States Consul-General at
Seoul says that there are two kinds of the Kamie
plant grown in Korea, but he is unable to state
whether they are distinct plants, or simply
varieties of the same. "Moshi" is the name
given to the carefully-cultivated one, and the
fibres of this plant produce the silky threads
made up into the highly-prized grass-cloth. The
other plant, called "Sam," seems capable of
growing almost everywhere. It is found in all
gardens as a weed, and it will grow on rough
hillsides and by water-courses. Neither barren-
ness of soil nor drought seems to kill it, though,
of course, it is susceptible to care and attention.
It is used for making the coarse fabric worn by
the poorer classes in summer, and for the very
extensive mourning costumes of all classes — a
veritable "sackcloth." Moshi is used for the

336

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 27, 1899.

outer gowns of both sexes. No man or [woman
of any means in Korea is without one or more
garments made from Moshi, which ranks next
to, and is almost as pretty as silk. The same is,
however, just as popular among the poor, and is
indispensable for the three years' mourning periods
that form such an important part of every Korean's
life. Moschi once started, becomes a permanent
crop, easy to raise and care for, and of much value.
There are no Korean statistics as to the production
of the fibre ; but as there are supposed to be
12,000,000 inhabitants in Korea, it will be seen,
from what has been said of the uses to which the
Ramie fabric is put, that the production must be
considerable. There is no. export of either fibre or
fabric. During the year 1897, an Austrian expert
in Eauiie visited Korea, with a secret process for
the rapid handling of decorticated fibre, which he
claimed to be able to turn into the perfected silk-
like article in two hours. The Koreans were much
interested in his proposition to establish a company
in Corea, but declined to pay the large cash
advance required for the use of the secret process.
It is stated that the culture of Ramie could be
increased in Korea indefinitely. "Indian Gar-
dening," April 22, 1899.

NAKCISSUS TRIANDEUS VAE.
CONCOLOR.

In my notes which recently appeared in the
Gardeners' Chronicle concerning hybrids of Nar-
cissus, I suggested the probability of the varieties
of N. triandrus, which have long been known as
var. concolor and var. pulchellus, being wild
hybrids of N. triandrus, and some form of
N. juncifolius. In reply to inquiries I made, the
Baron de Soutellinho of Oporto, better known to
Daffodil collectors as Mr. Alfred Tait, has sent me
some interesting information, from which I send
extracts : — " As regards triandrus concolor I am
rather puzzled ; no juncifolius occurs near it (on
the Sierra d'Estrella). The only Narcissus I can
find in its vicinity is a Corbularia, but all the
hybrids I have found of triandrus and Corbularia
are more in the form of Corbularia, and are barren,
whereas concolor seeds freely ; so I can only con-
sider it as a yellow variety of triandrus. The pul-
chellus, descendants of three bulbs which you sent
me, never produce seed, but multiply by offsets,
and at such a rate that, since 1887, when you sent
me the original bulbs, I have raised several hun-
dreds. This year I collected about 100 bulbs of
concolor from a new locality — the banks of the
River Antua (pronounced Antooang), near Estar-
reja, about 25 miles south of Oporto. It is strange
that concolor varies so much — sometimes very like
pulchellus, and sometimes nearly as pale as triandrus.
The soil for concolor is decomposed argillaceous
schist, with well rotted heather. N. concolor never
grows on a granite formation, whereas triandrus
grows only on such a soil."

In the same letter the Baron confirms my expe-
rience concerning the sterility of the hybrids known
as N. Johnstoni, which he has never known to ripen
a seed. G. Wolley-Dod, Edge Hall, Malpas.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Gymbidium eburneum, and others. — The flowering
season being now practically past, it will be neces-
sary to attend to the requirements of these plants.
The first named species produces few roots, and is
very impatient of being disturbed. If a plant be
doing well, remove therefore, merely some of the
surface-soil and substitute fresh. Specimens which
may be in an unhealthy condition, or in need of a
larger receptacle, should be turned out and repotted
into clean pots. The whole of the drainage mate-
rial need not be placed at the bottom of the pot,
but after putting some portion of it there add a little

compost, and work in some crocks with this ; aud
continue to mix these ingredients until near the sur-
face, which may be finished off in the ordinary way.
The compost may consist of good turfy loam and
peat in equal parts, and a small portion of chopped
sphagnum-moss. C. eburneum thrives in a warm
part of the Masdevallia-house, and where atmospheric
moisture is abundant. In regard to repotted plants,
water at the root must be given with great care.
Established plants may be benefited by an occa-
sional application of weak farmyard manure-water.
C. Mastersii does not like such heavy soil, aud [a
larger proportion of sphagnum-moss will be neces-
sary. The hybrids from C. eburneum and C. Lowi-
anum and C. giganteum, providing the growths have
not made too much headway, may be treated simi-
larly to C. eburneum, but they require rather more
root-room. A lighter position likewise should be
found for them.

Eulophiella Elisabetha', so far as my experience
goes, thrives best at the warmest end of the Pha-
kenopsis-house, where, during the summer months,
the beat is great, and moisture abundant. The
plants are now producing long, creeping rhi-
zomes, from the ends of which the growths will
develop. Before roots are emerged from these
rhizomes the plants may be top-dressed or re-
potted. Their rambling habit necessitates the use
of rather large receptacles, but sometimes the
rhizomes may be induced to remain inside the
boundary by carefully pegging them down on the
soil. Provide pans with a large quantity of
drainage material, and this should be surfaced with
about an inch or so of compost only, which may
consist of fibrous loam and peat in equal parts,
and a similar amount of sphagnum-moss, adding a
good proportion of finely-broken crocks as the
work proceeds. Atmospheric moisture being plen-
tiful, little water at the root is necessary until the
plants are in very active growth, when the soil must
not be permitted to remain dry even for a day. The
leaves may be sprayed several times a day during
bright weather, and occasionally they should be
sponged.

Phaius grandifolius and others. — This useful
winter-flowering plant, also P. Wallichi, and the
various named varieties, should be growu in a warm
intermediate temperature, shaded from direct suu-
shine, and if possible be stood on some moisture-
holding material. Being strong and vigorous'
rooting plants, they require ample root space, and
a fairly strong compost, viz., equal parts of peat
and loam, which should not be broken finely.
After placing a few large crocks at the bottom of
the pots, a fair proportion should be mixed with
the soil. The roots are very brittle, and usually
rot where bruised or broken. For a considerable
period of time after repotting, only afford sufficient
water to prevent the compost becoming dust-dry.
Plants not disturbed will require a moderate supply
of water, and occasioually weak manure-water.
Green-fly and mealy-bug attack the young leaves,
which must be carefully sponged should bugs
appear. The aphis may be destroyed by fumigating
the plants frequently.

Hybrid Phaius, such as P. x Cooksoni, P. x
Normaui, P. x Owenianus, P. x MarthiaJ, &c. ,
require a higher temperature than those of the P.
grandifolius section, but otherwise the treatment
given them should be very similar. The soil, how-
ever, needs to be mounded from the rims of the pots.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strugnell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Cucumbers. — If no second sowing be made, and
the early-raised plants must be kept in vigour
throughout the seasou, frequent attention should be
given both to the roots and the plants themselves.
There is nothing that so well sustains growth as
new, or at any rate, a fresh soil. A layer of turfy
loam not too finely broken, putou as often as the roots
come through the surface of the bed, will maintain
healthy and fruitful growth, providing other con-
ditions are favourable. Abundance of water will
be needed on hot sunny days, with a syringing of
the leaves not less than twice a day, and keeping
all bare surfaces damp. With these conditions
maintained, red-spider and aphides will not give
much trouble. A regular supply of Cucumbers,
even with vigorous plants, cannot be maintained
without repeatedly stopping the lateral shoots,
which should be carried out, at the least, once each

week, when exhausted and damaged leaves or weak
shoots may also be removed.

Frame Cucumbers. — Frames and brick pits now
being cleared of their temporary occupants should
be got in readiness for planting with Cucumber
plants. It is not necessary to provide dung-beds
specially for summer frame Cucumbers, if these have
been provided for the other plants, as there will be
sufficient warmth remaining in the materials to
start and carry on the growth of Cucumber plants
without any additions. By utilising solar- heat by
closing the lights early in the afternoon, affording
no shade, and by modifying the watering and syring-
ing in accordance with the state of the weather,
Cucumbers will grow and fruit well during the
summer. The same rules apply in all particulars
to frame-grown plants as to those in houses. Always
use water warmed in the sun or by mixing it with
hot water for syringing the leaves or moistening
the soil. The Cucumber roots readily from cuttings
placed in the Cucumber-bed without bell - glasses
over them, and it needs only the tops to be taken
off healthy plants and dibbled into the soil for
them to become rooted in a few days, if the biue
ou the roof affords a heavy shade, aud water bo
afforded copiously. Plants raised from cuttiugs
fruit sooner than seedlings, and the cuttings when
rooted may be lifted with a ball of roots and soil
attached, and planted at once in a house or frame.
All the same, seedlings are generally preferred,
because they are more vigourous, endure longer in
bearing, and carry more fruits. The fruits of frame-
grown plants are apt to be discoloured when allowed
to lie on the soil of the bed, and are then not nearly
so presentable as are fruits which depend from the
roof -trellis of a house. Cucumber glasses or a layer
of small Pea-stioks spread over the bed, will obviate
this. Do not allow tho fruits to remain on the
plants till they become of a large size, or permit
ill shapen fruits to remain.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener at Wrotham Park, Barnet.

Thinning Young Vegetables. — Onions, Carrots,
Parsnips, &c, will need immediate attention in
respect to thinning, weeding, and hoeing. Onions
should not be severely thinned except they be
required for exhibition, bulbs of medium size being
the more useful and better keepers. Draw the
young plants witli care so as not to disturb those
left to mature. Should the plants have come up
somewhat irregular in the rows, some of those
pulled out should be dibbled in the vacant spaces.
Onions may be transplanted very successfully in
showery weather. When the thinning has been com-
pleted and an attack from maggot is feared, afford
the whole of the beds a dressing with fresh soot.
Carrots aud Parsnips require to be thinned twice,
first when the plants are not more than 1 inch high,
when all clusters should be reduced ; and later,
when the young plants should be given individually
a space of 3 to 0 inches, or even 8 inches in the
case of Parsnips. Do not omit to sow at intervals
small beds of Carrots of the Short-horn type.
Piemovo the largest roots of Carrots or Turnips
growing in frames, and if the frames are required
for another purpose, the whole of the crop may be
lifted, and those roots of a useful size laid in
thickly on a north border, iu which position they
will keep for some time longer.

/.. i Is. — Lift without delay any Leeks still unused,
aud bury the stems to a good depth to preserve
them. Prepare trenches for the coming maincrop, aud
if large Leeks are required, make the trenches similar
to those intended for Celery, with the exception
that more and richer manure should be dug into
the bottoms of the trenches. For ordinary purposes,
a good strip of laud, deeply dug and well manured,
will answer well. The drills should be drawn out
rather deeply at 14 inches apart. Put the plants
8 inches apart iu the rows. If the land has been
heavily cropped, afford it a good quantity of manure,
aud when the drills have been drawn, soak them
with liquid-mauure, &c, delaying the planting
until the following day.

Lettuce. — Sow at intervals in rows where the
plants are intended to heart some of the most
approved Cos varieties, but do not sow the seed
thickly, nor fail to thin out early. It is a good
practice to leave every alternate drill to be filled up
with young plants as each row is thiuued ; those
transplanted making a good succession.

Jerusalem Artichokes should beearthed-up before

May 27, 1899,]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

3o7

the tops become too high for this work to be done
conveniently.

The Garden Walks. — Keep the walks free from
weeds, and let them be well rolled. Box-edgings
may now be clipped and trimmed.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fjelder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Episcia (Gyrtodeira) metallica. — This very pretty
and free-flowering Gesneraceous plant may be readily
propagated by means of the freely-produced side-
shoots or runners. Take these off with an inch or
so of stem when they have made three or four
leaves, and insert them in small pots tilled with
sandy-soil, or dibble them into the cocoa-fibre of
the propagating-frame. Grow them on in a brisk
heat, and eventually pot each into .5-inch or 6-inch
pots. A suitable soil would consist of two parts
loam, one part leaf-soil or peat, and a liberal
addition of silver-sand. The dwarf habit and
ornamental foliage of this plant render it very
useful for furnishing the edges of the stages in
the stove. The brilliant scarlet flowers only last a
few days, but a succession of them is produced for
a considerable time.

Chrysanthemums. — In some cases plants in 6-inch
pots have made so many roots that they need to be
transferred to their flowering-pots at ouce. The final
potting of later plants should be completed during the
first week in June, except that of a few backward
plants. Pots 9 inches in diameter are sufficiently
large, and the stronger-growiug varieties should be
given the larger size. Thorough drainage is essen-
tial, and the compost may consist of three parts
good turfy loam, half a part each of flaky leaf-soil,
stable - manure, and well burnt garden refuse,
together with sufficient coarse sand to keep the
whole porous. To each wheelbarrow-load of this
compost a 4-inch potful of bone-meal may be added.
If the loam be stiff, the compost should only lie
made moderately firm, but if light the plants
can scarcely be potted too firmly. The plants when
potted may be stood together for a few days in a
sheltered position, and if they are syriuged two or
three times a day during fine weather, it will assist
them to overcome the check caused by the dis-
turbance of the roots. Secure the stems to stakes,
and when established, remove them to their Bummer
quarters.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq-, Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

The Destruction of Insects. — During spells of cold
weather and easterly winds, greenfly increases on
Peach and Nectarine trees very rapidly, and curled
leaves and shoots are the result. A thorough syring-
ing with an infusion of Quaasia chips should be given
the trees each week for some time. Apply the liquid
at a temperature of about 90°. Forcible applications
of cold water at intervals, wheu the weather is
warm, will also assist in keeping the trees clean.
The cold winds of the past few weeks have
also apparently brought on an attack of blister
in Peach and Nectarine trees. All such leaves
should be removed and burned, and those shoots
badly affected pinched back. Should mildew-
appear on the trees, syringe with Gishurst Com-
pouud, at a strength of 2 oz. to the gallon of rain-
water, or failing this, a mixture of water, soft
soap and sulphur should be applied. The cater-
pillars which infest the Cherry, Pear and Plum,
and wall trees generally should be looked for
two or three times weekly. When disbudding
or pinching back the shoots of these trees, infested
bits should not be thrown on the borders, but
into some receptacle until they can be burned.

Removing surplus suckers from Raspberries. — ■
Raspberry plants are now growiug fast, and the
young caues should be thinned ; and unless required
for future transplanting they may be thinned down
to three or four growths to each stool, removing the
weakest ones by pulling them out. When, however,
slock is required for forming new plantations, the
suckers more distant from the stool should bo
allowed to remaiu for this purpose. Autumn
fruiting varieties should be afforded sufficient room to
allow of the canes being tied thinly to the wires.
Stir the surface soil, and if the ground be of a light
nature, apply a mulch of half-rotten manure,
following this by a thorough soaking with weak
liquid-manure.

The earliest Strawberry-bed is usually placed
on a south border, and it should always consist of
young plants, for these produce ripe fruits sooner
than two-year-old plants. In such a plantation
the most forward blossoms v, ill now be well set,
and a few of the later ones may be thinned out.
This will tend to increase the size of the fruits
and aid development. Beds treated as described
have usually produced ripe fruits early in June,
sometimes even in May, but according to present
appearances, ripening will be at least a fortnight
late this year.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetburv, Gloucester.

Bedding-Out. — The hardier kiuds of bedding-
plants, viz., Calceolarias, Gazanias, Verbenas, &c,
may now be safely planted. The Pelargoniums in
its several sections and varieties, Lobelias, Erinus,
and Petunias will be better if left unplanted till a
week later. Anteunaria and Cerastium tomento-
sum form neat edgings to some kinds of beds, and
if small pieces are planted in lines three inches
apart, they soon take root and grow. Echeveria
secunda glauca is another bold edging plant, re-
quiring to be tilted when planted, so that the water
does not remain iu the heart of the plant. Con-
tinue to gradually harden oil' the stock of teuder
plants, such as Heliotrope, Fuchsia, Coleus, Iresine,
and the various subtropical plants.

Window-boxes. — These should now be rilled with
soil; using for preference rough pieces of turf for
drainage. See that the boxes are secured from
wind, and made perfectly level. The deeper the
boxes, so much the better for the plants. Pelargo-
nium peltatum (Ivy-leaved), in all its varieties is an
excellent plant for filling these, especially the pink
variety, Madame Crousse. This, if planted near
the edge of the box droops gracefully over the
sides, and continues to flower the whole oi tin1
summer. The yellow and white-flowered Mar-
guerites (Chrysanthemum frutescens) also do well
in boxes. In windows fully exposed to the sun the
dwarf Nasturtiums are excellent, the seeds being
sown now, at 1 inch deep in the soil. But window-
boxes on the north side of a house or which are
much shaded should have Ferns and foliage, n <>t
flowering plants, placed iu them.

Climbi rs. — Thin out the growths so as to avert a
crowded state of the branches and shoots, securing
loosely sufficient of them to cover the space. A few-
shoots well matured always give the finest results
in respect of blossoms. The Clematis require almost
daily attention, as growth is very rapid, aud the
plants, if neglected, soon become tangled masses,
impossible to be dealt with. Climbing Eoses that
have been tied in closely to resist the wind, should
now be fastened more loosely, iu order to allow the
young growth to spread, especially is this necessary
with Turner's Crimson Rambler. Magnolia grand !
flora should have the long bare branches cut out,
and younger shoots tied iu their place, leaving
sufficient space for the coming season's growth. It
is not a good plan to tie one shoot upon another,
as is often done, the older heavy leaves shading
the undergrowth and causing it to die back ; the
shoots, too, being so far from the wall do not ripen
properly, and it is one of the causes of Magnolias
not flowering well.

Bulbs. — Most of the Narcissus and other bulbs
will have passed out of flower, and the present is
a suitable time for marking such as need to be
taken up when the foliage is ripe, and to be divided
aud replanted iu a fresh place. This may be
necessary iu from three to live years. Do not cut
oil' any green leaves, as to do so impoverishes the
bulbs, and is a cause of failure.

Pwonh*. — A copious application of manure-water
to the tree and herbaceous kinds will strengthen
the growths and increase the size of the blossoms.
Let the stems be supported, or the rain will break
down the flower-heads, or cause them to bend to
the earth ; moreover, a flower fully exposing its
petals to the sun comes of a liner colour than one
that hides tliem, as does a pendent bloom.

swarms, artificial or natural. To such we say, do
as much as you like to help your bees forward, but
do nothing which will throw them back, and
unless the weather becomes very settled and warm,
do not be in a hurry with artificial swarming. In
any case, the end of the month will be soon enough
this year to think of breaking in upon the prosperity
of stocks by dividing. We have long maintained that
the very best time for either a natural or an arti-
ficial swarm is the beginning of June, because it
gives ten days or so in which, by the aid of founda-
tion and feeding, the hive may be well furnished
with combs, and a good portion of these combs
occupied with eggs and brood before the Clover is
in full bloom. Then is the time to see a swarm
work in earnest, and to note how rapidly it will
shoot ahead of one which has been hived earlier,
ami has lost heart through lack of food.

Artificial Swarms. — Cnder certain circumstances,
artificial swarming is simple enough. Given fine
warm weather, aud two strong stocks of bees, it
only requires that the queen be lifted out of hive
No. 1 with the frame of comb ou which she happens
to be found, and placed in the centre of a new
hive, the frames of which should be fitted with
foundation ; or, preferably, frames of comb and
foundation alternately. The new hive is then set
on the stand previously occupied by No. 1, and
No. 2 is moved some distance away to a new stand,
while No. 1 takes its place on No. 2 stand. Thus
the new hive gets the queen and all the flying bees
of No. I (this, of course, constitutes tho swarm),
while the adult bees of No. 2 take possession of
the combs and brood of the former, raising for
themselves a new queen from the brood left in the
hive. If this operation is performed in the middle
of a tine day it will very rarely fail. This is tho
simplest and safest method of forming an artificial
swarm. Should natural swarms have come off
before the issue of our next number, they must be
fed daily during the bad weather. A few wet
or cold days immediately after hiving greatly check
tie- progress of new swarms, and it is of the utmost
importance to keep them going by feeding as long
as adverse weather lasts.

Special Work. All that can be done mn-i lie
done iu nursing any stocks that are weak iu uum-
bers, hut making rapid progress. Keep the slow
feeder constantly going if food is scarce, or uncap
sealed stores once or twice a week if there is plenty
on hand. Suitable spring food may lie prepared
by pouring hot water (3 pints) on 5 pounds of
refined cane-sugar, stirring till the sugar is dis-
solved, and giving the food whilst it is just warm.
Keep entrances narrowed tdl bees become busy, and
they want room for coming and going. See that
quilts fit closely down, and that no escapes at the
top of the hives. When the first overhaul of hives
is made, let it be really thorough, and make a note
of their condition ; this note to be tacked inside
the roof, or placed where it will be easy to refer to
when needed. < >u this state what progress is
being made iu brood-rearing, aud what feeding,
&c, is required, aud do not disturb the brood-nest
again, so long as progress is maintained, until the
weather gets quite warm and genial. Except in
early counties, it will be time enough to think of
surplus room when our next number is issued.
Some stocks which have wintered on a few frames
will require additional combs early iu the month ;
no disturbance of the brood, however, is needed in
giving these. When there are bees on all the
combs, add a frame on each side once a week, tdl
the full complement is reached. Shoidd the
weather be favourable, aud a colony is strong,
and making very rapid progress, usually give the
full number of combs at one operation, to save
further trouble.

THE APIARY.

By Exfert.

Swarming. — Where bees are doing well and
increasing rapidly, their over-zealous owners fre-
buently become impatieut in their anxiety for

"THE FLORA OF KENT."— We are pleased to
be able to announce the publication of a volume
devoted to this subject by F. J. Hanbury, Esq.,
aud the Rev. E. S. Marshall. The book has been
long expected ; and as it refers to one of our most
interesting counties, and is the work of two of our
most distinguished British botanists, it may be
anticipated that it will receive a cordial reception
at the hands of botanists. We shall have occasion
to refer to it at greater length on another occasiou.
In the meanwhile, we may state that the book is
to be had of Mr. F. J. Hanbury, 37, Lombard
Street, London, E.C.

338

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 27, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens ayid 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. Tlie Editor does not under-
take to pay for any contributions, or to return unused com-
munications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement.

Illustrations.— TJie Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, £c.; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Local News.— Cor respondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters ivhkh it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

WEDNESDAY, May 31

/■Annual Exhibition of tlic Royal
Horticultural Society, in the

"I Gardens of the Inner Temple,
I. London (3 days).

THURSDAY, June 1— Linnean Society Meet.

SALES.

/"Special Sale of Orchids in Flower

l' mid

TUESDAY,

FRIDAY,

May 30 [ and Bud, at Protheroe & Mortis'
1. Rooms.

I Imported and Established Orchids

June 2

\ at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period May 11 to May 20, 1S99. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

Temperature of
the Air.

At 9 a.m.

Sun. 14
Mon. 15
Tues. Its
Wed. 17
Thu. 18
Fri. 19
Sat. 20

Means...

S.S.W.
W.S.W
W.S.W.

w.s.w.

S.S.W.
S.S.W.

w.s.w.

Tempera-
ture of the
Soil at 9 a.m.

deg. deg. deg.'deg.

50-8 52-7 60-7
48-0 47U00-4
-,4'7 47-859-B

52-S
58'9
55-4
56-9

54'9

47-2 5H-9
54-0:64-0
51-562-2
54-8J62-7

50-8 Bl-3

48-5
47-5
47-3
4S-6
47-9
46' (I
53-5

48-6

ins. deg.
0-44 J55- 9
0-02 54-5
0-34 54-5
54-4
54 ".1
56-3
56

O'OO
0-18

Tot.
1-04

55-3

deg.
52-6
52-8
52- 9
52-9
53-1
53'5
53-11

53-1

deg.
49'8
501
:.()■:',
50-3
50-5
50-8
50- S

0. <

deg.
42-6
46-5
41".i
43-9
39-2
39-9
47-9

50-4 43 1

Remarks. — The weather during the week has been very un-
settled and dull, witli a thunderstorm on the 16th. Rain fell
on five days, the heaviest quantity being on the 14th, which
was the greatest fall for any one day this year.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 58T.
Actual Temperatures : —

London,— May 24 (12 p.m.): Max. 63'; Min. 52'.
Provinces.— May 24 (6 p.m.) : Max. 52°, South Coast ;
Min, 4-J°, Sumburgh Head.

Weather showery .

Seaside
Planting.

Seaside planting offers peculiar
difficulties, and the planter has
often to make use of subjects
which he knows will answer his purpose, rather
than others of a more ornamental character.

The beach-gardens at Folkestone offer an
illustration. They are only just beyond high-
water mark. In stormy weather they are
drenched with spray, and exposed to the full
fury of the south-westerly gales. Moreover,
they are placed upon an under-cliff of lower
greensand rock, alternating with bands of blue-
clay. Landslips consequently are of frequent
occurrence. To obviate these as far as possible,
great use is made of the so-called Tea-tree,
Lycium barbarum. It is deciduous, and forms a

tangled thicket of shoots, which in winter-time
is not attractive to the eye, but which serves as
a wind break. Its chief value, however, consists
in the freedom with which it produces under-
ground suckers and runners. These are so
numerous and so intricate that they hold up
the loose, treacherous bank in a manner that no
other plant known to us could surpass. Just
now, these suckers are clothed with foliage of a
rich, clear green, which may perhaps have
suggested the popular name. Behind the Tea-
tree hedge, or mixed with it, the common Elder
is planted. It is not very ornamental, being
distorted and blown out of shape, but it forms
a good protection ; the young shoots get killed
by the salt-blast, but they remain as a thicket
of brush-wood, which serves to temper the
wind, whilst in spring a forest of new shoots is
formed to replace the older ones, and in their
turn to share the same fate. Indeed, during
the interval that has elapsed between the
writing of this note and its appearance in type,
a severe gale has played havoc with the newly-
formed shoots on the exposed side of the
shrubs. Some of the Willows are used for like
purposes as the Elder and the Lycium. The
Tamarisk, not yet in leaf, is very elegant in its
finely-divided branching, and in the ruddy
colour of its bark. It was introduced to the
Kentish coast by the late Mr. Masters, of
Canterbury, and is one of the very best of
shrubs for seaside planting at the verge of the
sea. Gorse, with its brilliant flowers, is
sparingly employed, but might be much more
freely used. Maples, Sycamores, and Elms
form thickets in which the nightingale and
other birds find shelter.

( )f evergreen trees, the Evergreen Oak is one
of the hardiest ; its leaves, indeed, get browned
on the exposed side of the tree, but they are
soon replaced by young foliage in spring. Of
Conifers, Cupressus macrocarpa does not do so
well as in the Isle of Wight and other localities.
The Pinaster soon gets shabby, but the Black
Austrian Pine forms admirable shelter planta-
tions, just now very striking with their young
buds, projecting upwards like so many cande-
labra. The only objection that can be raised
is as to the density of the shade, which prevents
any undergrowth. The vegetation of the Folke-
stone sandstone cliffs is naturally of the most
interesting character to the botanist, but it is
destroyed wherever these Pines grow ; hence,
while grateful for occasional plantations of these
trees, we hope the authorities will extend them
with discretion, and take care to leave wide
areas in their natural condition.

Reverting to shrubs planted by the gardener,
we may mention the Euonymus as sjiecially
suitable for seaside-work. Its rich green, or in
many cases brilliant golden foliage, render it
very attractive. Escallonia macrantha is also a
shrub which may be highly commended, as it is
rarely hurt by frost, even on the Kentish
coast, and its glossy foliage and pink flowers
are both attractive. The broad-leaved Privet
forms excellent hedges. Lavatera arborea, the
Tree Mallow, is wild, or at any rate "natu-
ralised," hereabouts, and its appearance is suffi-
ciently striking to attract attention. Though
it is of little use for shelter, it will grow on the
very edge of the sea, and is now common all
along the coast as far west as Hythe. It is
unnecessary to go into further detail with
regard to shrubs and trees, for within the
shelter of the subjects we have mentioned
almost all our hardy shrubs will grow, and
flowers attain a brilliancy unknown save by the
sea.

We should like to add an emphatic warning
to our Folkestone friends, not to encroach any
more on the cliff beneath the Leas for additional
paths or any other purpose whatever. Its great
charm is in its wildness, and in the shelter it
affords to wild birds and plants. There are
certain thickets of deciduous trees which now
form a paradise for birds, and to disturb them
would be sacrilege. It would be far better to
do away with some of the paths than to
create new ones : with a little contrivance,
the public convenience could be equally well
satisfied by amalgamating some of the present
paths, and by doing away with others. On
this bank grows the wild Sea Pink (Armeria),
Iris foetidissima, Hippophae rhamnoides, a
wealth of Trefoils, and Medicagos, dear to
the botanist, and a host of other interesting
plants. Just now portions of the cliff
present a very striking appearance, from the
noble masses of Smyrnium Olusatrum in full
bloom. Lepidium Draba forms sheets of white
flowers, this is a plant introduced to Folkestone
within our own recollection, and it is now com-
peting for supremacy vigorously with Brassica
nigra, Smyrnium, Lucerne, and other plants.
Indeed, the study of this bank, whether from
month to month during the season, or from year
to year over a series of years, is most interesting
and instructive. As a good many garden plants,
like the Scabious, the Marigolds, and the
Borage, find their way here from time to time,
the young botanist must exercise his discretion
before pronouncing upon the "wildness" of
the plants he finds. Whilst there are certain
bare places on the cliff which might advanta-
geously be planted with Gorse or Sea Buck-
thorn, Clematis, or other native plant, we most
earnestly plead for the protection, and, if pos-
sible, extension of the wilder portions of the
Folkestone undercliff.

As for the formal gardens on the Leas above
the sea, they are too well kept. The authorities
seem to want reminding that shrubs and trees,
left to themselves, or slightly regulated, have
each their own beauty of form, and do not
require to be shorn like the grass lawns or
hedges. It may be necessary to restrict the
too rampant growth of Euonymus and Ever-
green Oaks, and other trees and shrubs, but it
is not necessary to cut them all without dis-
crimination into the shape of dumplings and
dish-covers.

DlANTHERA ILLUSTRIS. — An Acanthaceous
plant (fig. 122) was exhibited uuder this name by
Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, at a meeting
of the Royal Horticultural Society, on April IS.
The foliage is entire, acuminate, opposite, and
of a dark green colour. The showy character
of the plant is chiefly due to the red or crimson
bracts of the inflorescence, which is produced
at the extremity of the growth, as in Jacobinia.
The tubular corolla is light purple. The general
appearance of the plant is also suggestive of a
Jacobinia.

Linnean Society.— On the occasion of the
evening meeting to be held on Thursday, June 1,
1899, at 8 p.m., the following papers will be read: —
I. "On the High-level Plants of the Andes, as
illustrated by the Collections of Sir W. Martin
Conway, Mr. Edward Whymper, and Others," by
Mr. W. Botting Hemsley, F.R.S., &c. II. "On
some Australasian Collembola," by Sir John
Lubbock, Bart., F.R.S., &e.

The anniversary meeting of the Society

was held on May 24, when Dr. Gunther read an
address on the " Collection of Fishes accumulated
by Linnaeus," and now in the custody of the
Society. A special feature of the meeting was the

May 27, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

339

Fig. 122. — dianthera illustris.
Colour of the Bowers light purple, and that of the bracts crimson. (See p. 3SS-.)

presentation to Mr. J. G. Baker of the Linnean
Medal, an honour which is awarded each year to a
distinguished naturalist, a botanist, or a zoologist,
being chosen in alternate years. Dr. Gunther, in
presenting the medal, alluded to the very numerous
and important contributions to botanical science
made by Mr. Baker during his career at Kew, as
well as previously — contributions, the value of
which is highly appreciated abroad as well as at
home. He trusted that in the leisure Mr. Baker
has now attained, further work may still be
expected from him. Mr. Baker, in acknowledging
the honour conferred on him, alluded to the
encouragement afforded by the Society to natu-
ralists, who, but for the Society's aid, could not
publish the results of their labours without great
expense. There was a general feeling that the
medal was most worthily awarded, and Mr. Baker,
who was accompanied by Mrs. Baker and their
son and daughter, received the warmest congratu-
lations on the occasion, congratulations in which
the readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle who have
derived such advantages from his communications
to our pages will cordially join.

QUEEN'S TREES.— We have to add another Oak
t3 the list of trees known to have been planted by
Her Majesty, printed in our issue for June 19,
1897. On the occasion of the eightieth anniversary
of her birthday, the Queen planted an Oak near
one of the lawns at Windsor. Floreat I

The Temple Show of the Royal Horti-
cultural SOCIETY is an event annually antici-
pated with the greatest enthusiasm by gardeners
generally. Its success as an exhibition has been
extraordinary on every occasion. In respect to the
show that will be opened on Wednesday next, the
following interesting particulars have been supplied
us by the Society's secretary : — " For the twelfth
year in succession the Royal Horticultural Society
will hold its great annual flower show in the Inner
Temple GardeDS (by tho kind permission of the
Treasurer and Benchers) on May 31, and June 1
and 2. Every year there is an increased desire on
the part of cultivators to exhibit, and the officials
of the Society have a very anxious task in their
endeavour to do justice to those growers who regu-
larly support the fortnightly shows of the Society
held at the Drill Hall, and yet at the same time to
encourage others to come forward. The space is
absolutely limited, by order of the Temple autho-
rities ; no more or larger teuts may be erected.
Hence, every new exhibitor whose entry is accepted
necessitates a curtailment of the space allotted to
previous supporters. A catalogue of the show is
given gratis to every visitor, and this will contain a
notice of new and rare plants entered on or before
May 23 ; it will also contain a programme of the
music to be performed each day by the band of
Her Majesty's Royal Horse Guards (Blues). The
judges will meet at the secretary's tent at 10.30
a.m., on May 31, at which hour punctually the
tents will be cleared of all exhibitors and their
assistants. The Fruit, Floral, and Orchid Com-
mittees will assemble at the secretary's tent at
11 a.m., and the show will be opened at 12.30. All
plants for Certificate must be entered on or before
Friday, May 26. Address the Secretary, Royal
Horticultural Society, 117, Victoria Street, S. W.
They cannot be entered under any circumstances
on the day of the show."

GARDENERS' ROYAL BENEVOLENT INSTITU-
TION.— A largely-atteuded meeting was held on
May 16, at Reading, for the purpose of forniirjg a
local branch of the Institution. Mr. Arthur
Sutton has taken a prominent part in the forma-
tion of this branch, which has also the warm sym-
pathy of Mr. Martin Hope Sutton. Mr. Harry
Veitch, Mr. 0. Thomas, and a large number of
gardeners from the neighbourhood took part in the
proceedings. Mr. 0. Thomas pointed out that out
of some 25,000 gardeners there were only about 600
who subscribed to this Institution, founded for
their special benefit, and hoped that the formation

840

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 27, 1899.

of this local branch would greatly add to the num-
bers of subscribing gardeners. Mr. Keyser was
appoiuted president of the branch, Mr. A. W.
Sutton was elected treasurer, Mr. H. G. Cox was
appointed lion, secretary, and the following com-
mittee was elected :— Messrs. Neve, Ashby, Combes,
Trollope, McHattie, Stanton, Pope, Gait, Kitt,
Thatcher, Heath, Wise, Maxim, Lees, Fry, Exler,
Pound, Smith, Tegg, and Bryden.

Horticultural Club.— The usual monthly

dinner and conversazione took place on Tuesday
at the rooms of the club, Hotel Windsor, there
was a good attendance, both of members aud their
friends. The chair was occupied by the Rev. W.
Wilks, in the unavoidable absence of Sir J. D. T.
Llewelyn, Bart. ; there were present beside, Sir
John Furley, Messrs. J. H. Tritton, C. E. Shea,
R. Gofton Salmond, George Monro, Peter Kay,
H. A. A. D'Ombrain, H. Somers Rivers, C. Mason,
Ph'lip Crowley, Dr. Maxwell T. Masters, and
others. A very interesting paper was read by Mr.
Gofton Salmond, on the ' ' Preserving of Vegetables
by Evaporation," and a number of specimens of
vegetables so prepared were exhibited. An in-
teresting discussion followed, in which most of
those present took part, and the feeling among
all was that the process would be invaluable
for the army and navy, and for all expeditions
where the obtaining of fresh vegetables would be a
matter of difficulty.

The Lindley Library. — Visitors to the
Lindley Library in the Council-room of the Royal
Horticultural Society will observe with pleasure
that the books, are now all enclosed within glass
cases, which add materially to the appearance of
the apartment, while they secure the books from
some, at least, of the defilements of the London
atmosphere. The cases have been provided by the
munificence of the Council of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society.

The Surveyors' Institution.— The annual

general meeting of the Institution, to receive the
report of the council, and the announcement of the
result of the election of officers for the ensuing
year, will be held on Monday, May 29, 1S99, at
3 o'clock, at the new building, 12, Great George
Street, Westminster. The prizes awarded to
successful candidates, in connection with the recent
preliminary and professional examinations, will be
presented by the President at the annual general
meeting. The Institution is now removed to the
new building, 12, Great George Street, West-
minster, to which all commuuications should be
addressed.

The Academy of Sciences.— M. Ed. Pril-
LIRUX has been elected a member of the Academy
iu the place of M. Naudin. M. Prillieux is well
known in this country for his researches in vege-
table pathology.

Fatal Accidents from a Falling Elm.—

At Powis 1'ark, Welshpool, the seat of EarlPowis,
during a strong southerly gale, a large Elm stand-
ing near the approach drive was overturned, and
falling on a group of children, killed one of them
ou the spot, severely injured two others, all of one
family, one other child belonging to another family
being injured in the spine. Miraculous escapes
occurred to others from the falling branches. The
tree was apparently sound, although at the root it
was decayed.

Gardening for Women. — At the Exeter
High School for Girls recently, Miss Sievkkino,
hon. secretary of the Women's Branch of the Hor-
ticultural College, Swauley, Kent, gavo a lecture
on "Gardening as an Occupation for Women."
She explained that the female side of the college
was opened in consequence of a large number of
applications received from women who desired to
study the art or science of horticulture. There
are very few of the operations connected with hor-

ticulture which were beyond the strength [of an
average woman, and it had also been proved that
gardening was a suitable employment for women.
Although they could not expect to obtain riches
from this work, they could at any rate make a com-
fortable livelihood. The open-air life was healthy,
and the girls improved under it to an extraordinary
extent. There were always good positions avail-
able for the students after they left the college,
aud there were many who were at present employed
as gardeners in various parts of the kingdom.
Miss Sievektng, iu an interesting way, explained
the routine of the college, and the method of work
adopted, aud, in conclusion, expressed the opinion
that any occupatiou which drew girls away from
the bustle of large cities and gave them quiet and
healthy employment, was to be commended. Mr.
H. Tolson asked what girls did best at the college,
and Miss Sievkini; replied that those who had a
good all-round education, because they were able to
spend more time in the gardens.

The Royal Gardens, Kew, have appeared

very charming during the Whitsuntide holidays,
and, as usual, the number of visitors has been
large. In the grounds some of the early-tlowering
shrubs are in full bloom, including the glorious
Lilacs and hardy Azaleas ; the pink and white-
flowered Thorns being, as yet, not fully at their
best. But the late-Mowering bulbs upon the grass,
the last of the Tulips to flower in the beds,
including an admirable display of the Parrot varie-
ties ; also the great breadths of Blue Bells under
the trees, and the plauts in bloom in the alpine
garden, are all features that offered much gratifica-
tion to visitors who had eyes to see them. In the
Water- Lily-house the beautiful hybrid and other
Nymphteas bore plenty of rlower-buds, but unex-
pauded. The Victoria Regia, in the house which
this plant has made an extremely popular one to
the public, has yet put forth only a few early
leaves, but with the plant of the Double Cocoanut
at the margin of the tank, it appeared to excite
much interest. The Orchid-houses contained a
fairly good display of bloom of Cattleyas, Lajlias,
many variations of the Slipper Orchid, Odonto-
glossums, and other species. The Orchid-houses
since being rebuilt have a much better appearance.
The Stove, Begonia-house, and the new Nepenthes-
house, were all as interesting as usual, but visitors
were at a loss to explain a smell prevalent in this
part of the T range, which was due to one of the
more modest-looking of the Amorphophallus. The
Greenhouse (No. 4) presented a gay picture, and
contained a wealth of flowers. Amongst the spe-
cies of plants contributing to the general effect were
Schizauthus pinnatus, Collinsia bicolor, Azaleas,
hybrid Cinerarias, some of which were plunged or
plauted in the beds, aud were charming decorative
plauts, measuring iu instances 3 feet to 4 feet
across; Achimenes, Celsia cretica, Nemesia stru-
mosa, a small-flowered annual, very suitable for
cultivation in pots, flowers of varying shades of
yellow to deep orange colour ; Petunias, Ixias,
Begonias, Gloxinias, Fuchsias, Lonicera semper-
virens minor, Hydrangea paniculata, Viburnum
tomentosum plicatum, Boronias, Daphne Cneorum,
Wistaria chineusis, aud W. c. alba, a nice batch of
herbaceous Calceolarias, Scutellaria Mociniana,
Lilium candidnm, &c. The disposition of these
plants in batches in place of the "miscellaneous
groups more frequently seen in gardens," is a pleas-
ing one. The Temperate-house, which has awaited
completion so long, but is now perfect, offered
many interesting features, not the least being
some profusely flowered plants of the fragrant
Rhododendrons.

Treasure in a London Garden.— One of the
gardeners employed in the Lincoln's Inn Fields
found buried there, in October last, uiuety-four
rings, that were stolen from a jeweller's shop in
May last year. Knowles, the gardener, took the rings
to the police-court, and was on Tuesday last given
the not too liberal reward of £1, which was awarded

by the owner of the rings on the suggestion of the
magistrate.

Rhubarb Leaves as a Vegetable.— In the
Information Gazette, Oxford, it is said that
Rhubarb leaves, "if deprived of their larger ribs
and cooked like Spinach, make a most delicious
dish, with no suggestion of the flavour of Rhubarb
tart." Have any of our readers given them a trial.
If it be possible to make these leaves into a "most
delicious dish," we may see our way to the
utilisation of another waste product.

Tomato Winter Beauty. — We understand
that the entire stock of Mr. Mortimer's new
Tomato, which was exhibited at the Royal Horti-
cultural Society's meetings at the Drill Hall on
April 18 and May 2, and which received the
Society's Award of Merit on the former date, will
be distributed next season by Messrs. Sutton &
Sons, Reading.

Welbeck Abbey Struck by Lightning.— It

is reported that on Tuesday last the turret clock
and other portions of Welbeck Abbey, Worksop,
were damaged by lightning.

Agriculture and Gardening in Alaska.—

The projected agricultural experiment station iu
Alaska is, as we learn from the Times, May 15, an
accomplished fact, its organisation having been
completed under the auspices of the United States
Department of Agriculture. The main station is at
Sitka, which lies in the same latitude as the north
of Scotland, but with a far more rigorous climate.
Land near to Sitka is also to be cleared for the
erection of log silos, wherein to silo the native
grass, which is abundant and good, but not readily
made into hay, on accouut of the frequent rain and
excessive humidity. The new station will be sup-
ported at the expense of the United States Govern-
ment, and not subject to the provisions of the well-
known Hatch Act. It has been demonstrated that
Oats and Barley will not only make excellent
growth, but will ripen their grain in south-east
Alaska. This point has not been ascertained as
regards Wheat and Rye, but experiments on
autumn-sown grain are in progress. Clovers and
Flax grow vigorously ; and among vegetables,
Asparagus, Beetroot, Carrots, Kale, Cress, Lettuce,
Unions, Parsnips, Peas, Potatos, Radishes, Salsafy,
Rhubarb, and Windsor Beans, did well on old
ground. Very few succeed on new ground, but
they languish and die. It is raw, sour, water-
logged, and contains much decayed wood, requiring
aerating, and limiug to make it suitable for most
kinds of cultivated plants.

Information Wanted.— With reference to

the caution to advertisers which we published
a short time ago, warning them against a
man who replied to their advertisements, and
offered situations for a fee, or to supply goods,
but required cash in advance, we shall be glad
if any of our advertisers, who have been duped,
will communicate with the Publisher at once.

Publications Received.— Eleventh Annual Report

of Agricultural Experiment sin/ion, University of Illinois, for
the Year ending June 30, 1898. — Bulletin, No. 54: Spraying
Apple-trees, with special reference to Apple-scab Fungus. —
Meehans Monthly for May, 1899. — Japanese Botanical Magazine
for March, 1899, No. 145, containing Notes on Eastern Asiatic
Plants, Marine Alga' of Japan, Rare Japanese Plants, Mor-
phology of the Pollen-cells, anil the Spermatozoid of GHnl go ;
Hybrid Orchids, the Penetration of Chalk and Bones by
Fungus, &c. — Annual Report on the Royal Botanic Gardens,
Trinidad, lor lsus, by J. H. Hart, P.L.S.— Aunalen des K. K.
Natur-historischcn Hofmuseums, Vienna,\ol, xii., Nos. 3 ami
4; vol. xiii., No. 1. — Bulletin of the Botanical Department,
Jamaica, by Win. Fawcett, B.Sc., F.L.S. — American Journal of
Science, two extracted papers, viz., "Plants of the Crowfoot
Family," by M. L. Fernald ; and " Illustrated Flora of the
Northern U.S.A. and Canada/1 by Nathaniel Lord Britton,
Ph.D., Hon. Addison Brown. — Descriptive Notts on Fibres,
prepared for the Greater Uritain and Paris Exhibition from
Plants, Indigenous and Exotic, Cultivated in the Botanical
Gardens, Melbourne, by Win. Robert Guilfoyle, Director.—
The Alkali Soils of the Yellowstone Valley (U.S. Department of
Agriculture), No. 14. — The Orchid Review tor May, 189?, cm-
tains some interesting articles ou " Feeding Orchids," " Freaks
among Orchids," "On Hybridising Orchids," "Affording
Water to Odontoglossunis," &c,

May 27, 1899.)

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

341

Notices of Books.

Edible and Poisonous Fungi of Japan.
A gift has recently been made to the British
Museum (Natural History) by Mr. K. Minataka
of two illustrated volumes descriptive of the larger
fungi of Japan, by Mr. Sakamoto. Translations iu
English of many of the descriptions have been
appended by Mr. K. Minataka, but the introduc-
tion is not translated. There are no scientific
names, so that it is not easy to say for certain
what species some of the drawings represent. The
illustrations are in outline ; these are both excellent
and artistic. Unfortunately, the artist has given
no sections, and the colour of the spores is not
given. Reference is once made to the Handbook
of Dr. M. C. Cooke. From a strictly botanical
point of view, the volumes are therefore defective ;
but the illustrations are so highly natural, and so
remarkably well done, that, takeu with the descrip-
tions, a close approximation to the true scientific
names is often possible. In some instances the
name can be given with certainty.

as a "dainty for carouse." It is Baid also to be an
antidote "for the poison of fish and concoctiou."
A group of certain fungi is somewhat ambiguously
said to be like a "sloping fence," then a sub-
terranean species is represented — Rhizopogon
rubescens ; next a Hyduum, than a pallid, violet
Clavaria. This, we are told, if eaten in quan-
tities, " causes stomach-ache and purge." Next we
have "Buddha's-hand Mushroom," and two pages
of description and illustrations of what is called
the Hukiyo-take, or " Moonlight Mushroom." The
illustrations seem to represent our Agaricus fasti-
bilis, a well-known poisonous species often con-
founded with the true Mushroom, and which
sometimes appears on Muslnoom-beds. If it is not
A. fastibilis, it is a very close ally. We here repro-
duce a copy of one of the drawings of this species,
partly to show the excellent draughtsmanship of
the Japanese artist, and partly to show how cleverly
the habit of the species is given (fig. 123). The scaly
stem is very characteristic, so is the ragged margin
of the pilous, and the habit of growing in rings or
parts of rings is well shown.

A second illustration, not reproduced, shows two

Fig. 123. — "moonlight mushrooms," as sketched i>v a Japanese artist.

The volumes begin at the end with an introduc-
tion. Vol. I. commences with an illustration and
description of what is called the ' ' First M ushroom. "
This is a Lactarius, and is said to have the best
scent of all Mushrooms, and with a taste both
sweet and cooling. It is not poisonous, and grows
in Pine plantations. The next is the " Red First
Mushroom," another Lactarius ; it is described as
red, clean, aud amiable, with the best taste. This
is followed by what is called the " Dancing Mush-
room ; " the illustration greatly resembles our
Lentinus eochleatus ; both size and shape are said
to be "various," but the usual shape is "like a
man dancing;" this explanation is, however,
qualified by a second, which says that wheu
bears find it they dance, and that they are
very fond of eating it. It is stated to have
medical properties, and to have "good effect if
eaten by a sufferer of piles." This is followed
by the "Violet Dancing Mushroom," the popular
Japanese name beiug the ' ' Dancing Ape. " The taste
is said to be "light," but a blackish variety is con-
sidered the best for culinary purposes. Next there
is a " Yellow Dancing Mushroom," with a " sweet
and bitter " taste, an inferior species of poisonous
Mushroom. A white Hygrophorus is next illus-
trated, and then a "Quereus Mushroom," which is
inferior wheu dry, but when fresh better, and good

large plauts just as we find them iu this country.
The results of eating this fungus are also identical iu
Japan and Britain, for the author says all who have
eaten it get " stomach-ache, vomit aud purge." It
seems to have been eaten by the author by accident,
but he, with others, avoided disaster by using Birch-
bark, " which cured them in narrow escaping ; "
then wo found this fungus to be very venomous.
Happily," says the author, " I escaped. To be
cautioned. If a man takes this fuDgus by mistake,
it is sure to cause vomit, stomach-ache, or lunatic-
frolic ; if severe, man is killed." The name of
"Moonlight Mushroom " is derived from its phos-
phorescence at night. It has a second popular name,
viz., Huyasuke-take, because in "ancient ages"
one Huyasuke was killed by it. The plant, we are
told, is to be distinguished with caution, and that,
generally speaking, the poison of Mushrooms may be
cured with a "decoction of Birch-skin." In suddcu
cases, "powder of clay- ware" is recommended;
" also laying the body on the ground " is said to be
"a good cure." This very simple "cure "might
be tried by some of the members of our myco-
phagous clubs, and the results reported to the
Gardeners' Chronicle. After the "Moonlight
Mushroom," a good illustration is given of what
appears to be the allied Agaricus longicaudus ; this
is said to be " very venomous and fatal," just what

we should expect of the plant here. Further on,
an illustration of another Lactarius is given, and a
"Fungus of a Church," because "a monk first
ate it, and then many followed him." A plant
which seems to be Agaricus melleus is given, the
taste of which is said to be "refreshing and tine
enough for eating." A certain fungus is said to be
the " Oshuggarnshi " of the Aino-tribe ; this has a
"light taste." A crimson Russula is the " Keue-
karushi " of the Ainos, with a "light, slightly
poisonous taste. The first volume concludes with
illustrations aud descriptions of Clavarias.

Volume II. commences with an excellent illus-
tration of Nyctalis parasitica, which is said to lie
poisonous, and " not counted a culiuary article."
Then an Amanita or Volvaria, which is said to be
" very venomous and kills man." Next, Agaricus
Vittadinii, and the "Moonlight Mushroom," agaiu.
Another Amanita is then given, " very venomous
and fatal." Further on a Starry Puff- Ball is given ;
it is used, we are told, for "stopping blood."
Another Starry Puff-Ball is illustrated further on,
aud named the "Deaf Fuugus," because if it be
"philliped," yellow powder comes out, which
causes deafness if it enters the ears. Passing on
we come to the "Grasping Fungus;" we are told
that if it is held in the hand it shrinks, and if the
hand is off "soon inflates." An Agaric, which
looks like our Agaricus subiuvolutus, is called the
"Maple Mushroom," and the " Jobeui Karughiu,"
of the Ainos, the description of which states
that "one does not stop laughing" after eating it.
Other Amanitas follow, one, the " Fly-catcher," is
said to be venomous, "aud surely flies die by
eating it." Asercie, Clavarias, and a Boletus follow,
aud a Polyporus found ou the Mulberry. This, it
is said, "cures very well the stubborn paralysis."
A tinder Polyporus is illustrated, and a "Red
Hardy Polyporus." Polyporus officinalis of the
Larch is said to have a bitter, strong taste, aud to
be good for "curing the bellyache." It is satis-
factory to learn that one exceptional fungus cures
the "bellyache," the majority certainly cause it.
A few other plants, not fungi, are illustrated
and described, such as Ophioglossum, Gastrodia,
Orobanche, &c.

The two small volumes are well worthy of careful
attention, both for their illustrations and descrip-
tions. Worthimjlon G. Smith, Dunstable.

FlIHRER DURCH DEN KONIGLICHE BOTANISCHEN

Garten in Munchen. Von Dr. K. Gcebel,

Professor of Botauy.

This is a small guide-book to the Botanical Gardens,
Muuich, indicating the plants which possess special
interest to the visitor. This botanical garden,
since Dr. Gcebel induced the municipality to afford
it monetary support, and indicated its importance
as a teaching establishment, is much visited, espe-
cially on Sundays aud holidays, and in summer till
late in the evening, this last a circumstance scarcely
to be found anywhere else, and least of all in
Germany. This garden is not, like most of the
botauical gardens of the country, a university insti-
tute, but belongs rather to those bodies which are
under the general direction of the Royal Academy
of Science aud Art, but which are iu close con-
nection with the university. The garden was
fouuded by King Maximillian Josef I. in 1807,
whilst the university was not transplanted to
Munich from Landshut till 1826.

The garden was laid out under the direction of
Prof. Frauz von Paula vou Schrank. The gardeu
consists of two divisions, the "large" aud the
"small," separated by the Sophieustrasse. The
guide-book affords an idea of the cost of the upkeep,
aud gives the rules to be observed by visitors ; theu
follow brief chapters descriptive of the various
portions of the garden, beginning with the small
garden, the more remarkable plants being mentioned,
and their peculiarities aud attributes alluded to.
A useful manual for the visitor or student who does
not want to waste time iu discovering the where-
abouts of such things as interest him.

342

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 27, 1899.

Home Correspondence,

COLUMBINES.— I do not think these hardy
flowers have ever been regarded as florists' flowers,
although remarkable improvements have beeu
effected in them since Mr. Douglas first set the ball
rolling by intercrossing some of the charming
species that are even now none too widely growu.
Since then others have taken not only the species
but their hybrid products in hand, and without
exercising much of the breeder's art, yet by
constant selection and such intercrossing as Nature
furnishes, there have now been produced strains of
the most remarkable beauty as well as varied in
colours. It is one of the happy characteristics of
the breaks, that they all present in a high degree
the long-spurred form, without which Columbine
flowers seem so stiff and formal. Very much has
been done to give variety to the old garden forms,
but in no case that has come under my notice have
the long spurs been produced from them. One
cross I made some years ago between a chrysantha
and one of the garden forms resulted in the pro-
duction of flowers that were not only absolutely
spurless, but produced corollas so expanding that
the flowers closely resembled small Clematis
blooms. The product was curious, but not
pleasing ; but of the true strains that were
obtained from the best species, there can be
no question as to beauty that is to me mar-
vellous. AVhen last summer I stood in the
midst of a huge breadth of these Columbine
hybrids, on Messrs. Caunell's Eynsford farm, I
could realise that no greater floral beauty could
be furnished by any other plants. There are
many combinations of colours found that I had
not previously seen, and I literally revelled in tho
privilege to go through the break, and indicate
which of the many thus in bloom seemed to
ba most worthy of selection. Seeing that these
plants seed freely, are so easily raised from seed,
and once strong, bloom so finely for several years,
how is it that we do not find them iu all gardens ?
Generally they are not found at all. Many gar-
deners do not seem to know of them. It is a
favourable time to refer to them now, because we
are near the season for sowing. The month of May
is a good time, and the sowing may be made out of
doors on good soil and in broad-cast form, or in
shallow drills, as may be preferred. Seedlings thus
raised and transplanted into beds or borders, wherein
to bloom iu August or September, make fine flower-
ing plants the following summer. One result of
iutercrossiug species has been in the hybrids greater
strength and lloriferousness. There is no suspicion
of barrenness in the products, because the original
species are so olosely allied. Certainly the inter-
crossed product has been found iu a glorious floral
addition to our gardens. A.

MR. MALCOLM DUNN. —An announcement of the
sudden death of this distinguished and estimable
Scotch gardener has come as a severe shock to all
who kuew him. Truly of him may it be said that
"in the midst of life we are in death," for all might
have given him threescore and ten years of life, so hale
and hearty did he appear to be. It was but the
other day his name appeared as one of the chosen
three judges for the great Grape class at Shrews-
bury, next August, but the famous Shropshire
Quarry will not hold him again, and a melancholy
duty is cast upon the Home Committee of selecting
another colleague for Messrs. Thomas and Crump.
Scotchman as he was, horticulture claimed him as
her own, and horticulture knows no nationality.
It was, without doubt, as a distinguished Scotch
gardener all the same, and as a representative
horticulturist of the race beyond the Tweed, that
he was selected to receive one of the Victorian
Medals of Honour. During two years from the
installation of the medal, none of the sixty
has died till now, and Malcolm Dunn is
the first to travel the road of honour into the
realms of the great unknown. The council of the
Koyal Horticultural Society will have a difficult
task to perform iu worthily filling the dead gar-
dener's place, but in any case they can barely
ignore Scottish claims if advanced. It was easier
to select sixty than to select one out of numbers of
good men. Doubtless, Scotland will strive worthily
to raise a memorial iu honour of the departed. It
was his lot to follow in the path and work of one of
Scotland's greatest gardeners, William Thomson.

It will need a good man to worthily sustain as
Dunn's successor, his and Thomson's reputation,
and that of famous Dalkeith. A. D.-

CUPRESSUS MACROCARPA.— Iu the villa gar-
dens round about Torquay this Conifer is put to
valuable use, and if proper attention be afforded, it
admirably answers its purpose. Many of the
villas are built on undulating laud, and the roofs of
some are almost in a line with the ground floors
of those just above them on the hills. It follows
that the garden of one is often open to those of
its neighbour, and even to those placed on level
ground, there is always a desire on the part of the
occupants for a certain degree of privacy and
seclusion, so essential to the enjoyment of a
garden. The garden-walls are about 3 or 4 feet
high, with soil on the inside borders almost level
with the top of the wall. On this a number of
Cupressus macrocarpa are planted, 2 or 3
feet apart, and being a quick grower, the lower
portion soon thickens ; and when the plants have
grown some 6 or 8 feet high the leaders are cut
away which encourages the thickening of the top.
Ere, however, this finishing part is permitted, it is
necessary that a strong iron railing be run the
whole length of the intended hedge, and stout iron
standards and stays well secured to the wall as well
as the border inside with a couple of rails, one
about 2 feet from the ground, and the other 5 feet.
These, of course, are firmly fixed to the uprights,
so that when finished the whole is strong and able to
resist the winds which will, by-and-by, try the hedge.
The plants are secured to this irou railing, which is
soon hidden, aud as they reach the height previously
mentioned, topped and clipped, a most compact
and beautiful hedge is formed which entirely shields
everything in the garden from the gaze of passers-
by or from neighbourly observation. The hedge may
be permitted to measure 3 feet through at the base,
gradually sloping in height till the top, perfectly
level, is about a foot in thickness. Some run just
6 feet high, 2 feet at the base, sloping gradually to
the top. The bright, pleasaut green of the young
shoots just at the present season makes such a
hedge singularly attractive. Some of the owners, I
notice, have made provision for the little gaps that
occasionally occur in the lower part of the plants
by planting a row of Euonynius between the
Cupressus and the walls ; these are kept dense
and compact by constant clipping. The varie-
gated forms as well as the common Euony-
mus are used, the whole making a very
pretty and complete bauk of vegetation, always
green, aud most attractive. The beauty of such a
hedge is, of course, enhanced and preserved by
regular clippings — twice a year they should b3
attended to by one who thoroughly understands
his work. Of course, any one can use a pair of
clipping shears ; but where straight and curved
lines and level top arc to be maintained, it is very
desirable that one who is somewhat of an adept at
his work should be always permitted to do it. In
the hot summer seasons in tho south of Devon, and
on raised banks and borders, it is necessary that
the hose-pipe be used, and abundant supplies of
water constantly afforded, as only by such nieaus
can the health of the hedge-plauts be maintained.
W. S., Exmouth.

THE PEAR MIDQE. — The mischievous insect,
" Diplosis pyrivora" is again infesting our Pear-
trees iu considerable numbers, notwithstanding all
our preventive measures taken every year. These
consist of sending men to pick off the tiny lop-ended
or deformed Pears, and burn them, which is clone
by the bushel. This is repeated several times, aud
to make doubly sure, fresh hot gas-lime is strewn
under the trees. In order to prevent our neighbours'
crop of midges invading this garden, all of our trees
were sprayed daily, weather permitting, for a fort-
night previous, and right up to the time of the
opening of the flowers, with a mixture of Quassia
and soft-soap ; but this has not been successful, and
it made apparently little difference. The adult
midges are very small, and not therefore readily
distinguishable. I have been advised to strew
kainit under the trees at the rate of 4 oz. per
square yard, to receive fallen fruit which
might contain larva1, a3 well as such of the
larvae that have burrowed their way through
the sides of a fruit, with the object of hyber-
nating in the soil. This experiment is having my
careful attention, for I think no trouble too great
that will enable me to master the Diplosis, which
will otherwise render Pear cultivation at Madres-

field impossible. It is a pity that maoy persons
neglect to take precautions. It is well for every
gardener to examine his Pear-trees, and if any of
the fruits are seen to be bottle-shaped, and not of
a symmetrical form, he should slit them down
through the core, when, by the help of an ordinary
lens, the larva! will probably be found. It is
curious that Williams' Bou Chretien and all the
allied kinds, such as Beurre de l'Assomption,
Beurre d'Amanlis, and Souvenir du Congres are
affected much more than the later -floweriug
varieties. I am of the opinion that the Pear-
midge propagates in neglected orchards, aud is
carried by the wind in the same way as the winged
aphis, when disturbed by my neighbours the Hop-
growers, especially in the autumn or late summer.
W. Crump, Madresfidd Court Gardens.

THE WEATHER NORTH OF THE TWEED.— This
gets worse and worse, though we are within a week
of the end of May ; and so far as we have gone,
the weather throughout has beeu more like Decem-
ber or March than May, with its dew-spangled
flowers of freshness aud fragrauce. The general
opiniou is that already the produce of field and
garden is some three weeks behind the calendar,
and growers are beginning to ask anxiously about
the beginning of the forciug-weather so much
needed to enable our crops to ruu abreast of our
calendars. Hitherto our many changes of wiud
have brought us few or no changes of weather.
The west winds have proved about as cold, aud far
stronger than the east, and the south winds have
not blown long enough at a time to temper the
severities and harshness of those from the north
and north-east. Though we have had little snow
save those showers aud storms that converted such
large areas into sheer winter on May-day, the rains
have been almost as cold as sleet or snow ; and
the frosts, though not severe, have arrested growth
in all tender crops, in many cases cut back most
precocious Potatos to the ground-line, entirely
arrested the growth in the open air of young seed-
ling flowers aud vegetables, and very much thinned
the forward blooms of the Peach, Nectarine, Apri-
cot, Plum, Pear, and even of the Cherry, the
blooms of which are hardier than either. Tho
lateness of the season promises to prove a decided
advantage to the most important crop of all our
fruits— the Apple. The Apple-trees aud bushes
look remarkably well in most districts, and promise
to be the fruit crop of tho seasou, as they were
also last year. Fruits of the Gooseberry aud
Currant situated on the extremities of the shoots
have been frozen ; but, on the whole, our bush-
fruits of all kinds give promise of a full crop.
Strawberries seem scarcely to promise an average
yield, and not a few experienced cultivatois hold
that a Strawberry crop is seldom as good a one
after a mild, wet, as after a hard winter. l>. T. F.

A LARGE PLANT OF THE CLIMBING DEVONI-

ENSIS ROSE. — There is here a plaut of the climbing
Devoniensis Rose, which covers the entire span-roof
of a greenhouse 40 feet iu length and 20 feet iu
width. The plant is in perfect health, and yields
hundreds of Roses every year. I know nothing
about its age, but should suppose it is considerable,
the stem at 2 feet from the ground being fully
12 inches iu circumference. J. Tweedie, N&wbank,
Edinburgh. [Not so very large. Ed.]

Florists* Flowers.

•

HINTS ON POTTING CHRVSANTHEMUMS.

Some cultivators make a rule of potting the
plants during a certain week in May or June.
Rigid adherence to a particular date may answer
well in some seasons, but as a rule it is not a
praiseworthy arrangement. The best practice is
to take into consideration the state of the plants.
If the pots in which the plants are growing be o or
G inches in diameter, and full of roots, then they
should be at once transferred to larger pots.
Chrysanthemums should be free from checks to
growtli at all times, and if permitted to remain in
pots until the roots have become matted, this
necessary principle will be violated.

In the cultivation of Chrysanthemums for the
production of large blooms, there is much differ-
ence of opinion amongst growers as to the size of
pot necessary. Some prefer those 10 inches in

Ma* 27, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

343

diameter, others will use pots of 7 inches diameter.
But iu the latter case one bloom only is allowed to
each plant, and this practice is largely increasing.
As a general rule I prefer an intermediate size, say
a 9-inch pot ; and for weakly growing kinds, pots
an inch smaller ; extra-strong growing sorts
might be given 10-inch pots. But after all, very
much depends upon the after treatment the plants
receive.

In respect of compost, a very suitable one for the
bulk of varieties would be composed of three parts
fibrous loam to one part half-decayed horse-manure,
with sufficient sand and charcoal added to ensure
porosity. A further addition may bs made of 2 lb.
of Thomson's Vine and Plant Manure to every
bushel of the compost. Well-drained pots are a
necessity. Press the soil firmly into the pots,
especially about the ball of earth containing the
roots. Take cai-e that the roots of the plants to be
potted are thoroughly moist before being removed
from the old pots, it being difficult to afford water
for a little time afterwards without souring the new
compost. E. Mohjntux.

The Introduction of the Fancy Pansy.

Reverence for my old friend, the late John
Salter, of Hammersmith, and admiration of his
work, is my excuse for questioning Mr. R. P.
Brotherstou's statement, on p. 307, that 'about
I860 John Downie introduced the Fancy Pansy
from Belgium." This sentence is no doubt meant
to give John Downie the credit of having first
introduced the Fancy Pansy to the United
Kingdom. Happily, I have documentary informa-
tion which shows that the Fancy Pansy had its
origin at Shepherd's Bush.

Sixty years ago John Salter resided at Shepherd's
Bush, and was an enthusiastic cultivator of florists'
(lowers. The Pansy was then undergoing improve-
ment at the hands of Thompson and others,
and had led to the ingathering of a harvest
of good things. At that time a widely popular
exhibition of Pausies was held at Hammersmith,
and John Salter, then an amateur cultivator, grew
improved and probably exhibited Pansies. When,
in the early forties, he went to Versailles, France,
and established a nursery there, he took with him
his favourite Pansies, but the heat of the French
summers and the cold of the winters did not suit
them so well as the English climate. Still, he con-
tinued to raise seedlings, and being a dealer in
novelties, no doubt distributed them in the course
of business. The French florists, who could never
quite fall into line with Glenuy, Brown, Hale, and
other raisers of that period, appeared to have
favoured John Salter's seedlings. By 1847 he had
raised some curiously striped and blotched varie-
ties, seed was saved from the best of these, and
when early in 1S4S, through the outbreak of
the French Revolution iu that year, Salter gave up
his French establishment and came to England,
bringing with him his best selections of seed, which
were sown by him at his Versailles Nursery at
Hammersmith. In 1850 he brought his strain of
Pansies into prominence by offering varieties for
sale, not exactly as show flowers, but as deserving
of recognition on account of their fantastic colours.
In 1851 Salter (whose nursery was close to Addison
Road Station, and was much visited by foreigners
who came to London) ottered three named varieties
for sale, viz., ccerulea striata, white and blue ; Mars,
bronze and yellow ; and Novelty, yellow, striped
with maroon. In 1852 sixteen new varieties
were sent out by Salter, all of his own raising ; and
in 1S54, other aud improved varieties were dis-
tributed. That the term " Fancy Pansies " is of
much earlier origin than is generally supposed I
establish by giving an extract from John Salter's
catalogue of 1854. " Fancy Pansies : This class
was first brought into notice in 1S50 by John
Salter, and were then not offered as show flowers,
but for their fantastic colours. Since that time
they have been greatly improved in form, aud the
new varieties of this season will be found larger,
more regularly striped and blotched, and a great

addition to this distinct and attractive class, whiah
promises to become as popular as the fancies of any
flower." There were Fancy Dahlias, Fancy Pelar-
goniums, &c, in cultivation in that day as there
are now.

By this time, M. Miellez of Lille, who greatly
distinguished himself as a raiser, had sent out one
or two very fino varieties. Quite lengthy lists of
new varieties appeared in Salter's catalogue for
1857 and 1858, in the latter many Fancy Pansies
were named, including Magpie, a very distiuct
type, clear blue with white blotches, which, it is to
be feared, is now very difficult to be obtained in its
original character. It is said to have been dis-
covered growiug in a corn-field, and forty years
ago it was also known under the synonyms of
Mazeppa, Paul Pry, Wonderful, and La Pie.

An enormous impetus was given to the develop-
ment of the Fancy Pansy in this country about
185S, when Mr. A. Henderson, then of Wel-
lington Road Nursery, St. John's Wood, while

POETBAIT 01" THE LATE IAMES KELWAY.

travelling in France, discovered some new forms of
blotched Pausies. As he could not successfully
cultivate them in the then rapidly-growing district
of St. John's Wood, he sent them to my brother,
William Dean, who had but recently established
himself in business as a nurseryman at Shipley,
near Bradford, to grow for him in the cooler and
moister climate of Yorkshire. These varieties
were great improvements upon what had previously
been seen, aud they were also the production of
Mons. Miellez. The first batch sent to Shipley
were Eva, Bob, floribunda, Cerberus, ccerulea alba,
Eckard, and others ; and they were followed by
Prince Imporial, Ali Bey, Parpaillot , Miracle, Agnes
Sorrel, Napoleon III., and Massaniello. A3 I spent
the autumn of 1SG0 and all the spring of 1S61 at
Shipley, these Pansies came under my care,
and I have a vivid recollection of them. In
1S61 came Belle Esquermoise, Louise Miellez,
Distinction, and others ; the next year came
Octavie Demay and NiemieDemay, and with these
and the death of Mere Miellez the supply from
France came to an end.

Meanwhile, W. Dean had commenced to raise
seedlings, and the first batch sent out by him was

in the autumn of 1861, and consisted of Princess
Alice, Donald Beaton, Etoile du Nord, Tiger, Ac.
In 1862 and 1863 new batches of varieties were also
distributed, and the term "Belgian Pansies" was
applied to all that my brother raised aud sent out.
In Scotland, John Laing, theu of Dysart Gar-
dens, was the first to take in hand this type of
Pansy, and his first seedling of note was a bright-
coloured flower named Professor Berkeley. On
joining Messrs. Downie & Laird in business the firm
took up the culture and improvement of the Bel-
gian Pansy with spirit, and despite the prejudice
against them on the part of those who valued the
old type of English show Pansies— yellow grounds,
white grounds, and selfs— the Belgian sorts made
headway ; their latent possibilities were recognised,
and the future foretold for them abundantly
realised. Brilliancy of tint, variety in colour, rich-
ness in expression, solidity of substance, and vigour
in growth, are the leadiug characteristics of the
fancy Pansies of our day. Their robustness is in
marked contrast to the constitutional debility of
many of the English show varieties. Richard Dean,
Ealing, II'.

©bttuan>.

MR. James KElway.— The death is announced
of Mr. James Kelway, senr., of the Langport Nur-
series, on the 17th inst, at the ripe age of S3 years.
He was the founder of a firm widely known for
its enterprise, and for its success in the improve-
ment of some of our most popular flowers. Boru
at Westholme, near Shepton Mallet, on Nov. 2,
1815 ; he was educated at Wells and Wellington,
Somerset. As a lad he was noted for his cleverness
and his painstaking applicatiou to his studies ; he
was desirous of assisting the best interests of
others, and at the age of sixteen had gathered
about him a class of some eighteen lads whom he
nightly instructed in the elements of learning.
From his youth upwards, flowers and their culture
greatly interested him, and it is on record that he
was an exhibitor at a flower-show at Glastonbury
at the age of fifteen, and he was so successful that
twelve first prizes and five second prizes fell to his
lot out of twenty-three entries. It was his first
attempt as a competitor ; his success was prophetic
of his future career. At the age of eighteen, Mr.
James Kelway had entire charge, with a staff of
men under him, of the Gardens of Dillington
House, near Ilminster, and lived there for the
space of seventeen years. In 1850 he purchased
the old dwelling - house (now the offices of
Messrs. Kelway and Sons) and an acre or two of
land, which formed a small nursery, from a Mr.
Isaacs, at Huish Episcopi, the parish adjoining
Langport, removing here with his family in 1851.
This formed the nucleus of the present nursery of
200 acres, having on it four dwelling-houses, and
several cottages, and farm buildings. It is worthy
of note that the Gladiolus, the flower with which
the name of James Kelway is closely and suc-
cessfully associated, attracted his attention for
the first time at Glastonbury, where iu 1830 he
saw a specimen of Gladiolus psittacinus exhibited,
and a desire to cultivate and improve it was born
in him. On commencing business near Langport,
he paid special attention to the hybridising and
culture of this flower, aud early iu the sixties com-
menced that series of successes in the exhibition of
it, which before long made the name of Kelway
known throughout the Kingdom, and ultimately
throughout Europe, America, and the colonies.
Iu thirteen years it may be said of him
that he was pre-eminent in this particular
field, and the International Exhibition held
in Paris in 1878 proved that his productions in
respect of novelty and quality were second to none
in Europe. In the year lSGli, he distributed new
varieties of Gladioli, which his patience and skill
as a hybridist was enabling him to produce for the
enrichment of gardeus. The Gardeners' Chronicle
in 1891, in the course of a review of the produc-

344

THE GAB DENE US' CHRONICLE.

[Mat

]S99.

tions of the preceding fifty years, remarked :—
"There are two plants whose names occur as
deserving of unstinted praise, two plants in whose
cultivation immense advance has been made, and
before whose state of perfection criticism must bow
with bated breath. Each of these plants has been
taken in hand and perfected by one man in par-
ticular, which is a rather remarkable fact : the
men and the flowers are Veitch and the Amaryllis.
Kelway and the Gladiolus." How many unique
varieties have been produced and exhibited by
James Kelway up almost to the period of
his death let the records of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society testify. It is with the Gladiolus
in particular that he was able to accumulate
that large collection of medals, cups, &c, awarded
to him from time to time.

It must not be supposed that the Gladiolus was
the only plant so successfully improved by this
remarkable man. It is claimed for him that he was
among the first in the work of improving the Cine-
raria, as also in improving the Frame-Cucumber,
some popular varieties having originated at Laug-
port. Later in life the P;eony, the Delphinium,
the Pyrethrum, &c. , came under his care ; the
second of these especially being improved by the
firm in a really wonderful degree. It was well and
truly said of James Kelway in 1884, that " he is a
truly representative man, whose whole life has been
given to the culture of flowers." Iu 1890, at the
request of the Council of the Royal Horticultural
Society, Mr. Kelway delivered a lecture on ' ' The
Gladiolus " at one of the Society's meetings.

It is only possible in a limited space to touch
upon a few of the flowers cultivated with so much
success by the Langport firm ; suffice it to say, that
a large and remunerative business has been built
up, which will be continued by sons and grandsons
along the lines laid down by its once active head.
Not less remarkable was his activity in public
life. As churchwarden, an office he held for the
space of 33 years ; as a member of the School
Board ; as a member of the Langport Towu Trust,
and in other ways he devoted his energies to the
well-being of his fellow creatures, and he has closed
his active career, carrying with him to his grave
the regrets not only of a wide circle of friends and
acquaintances, but also with those of the extensive
district throughout which he was so widely kuown.
Mr. James Kelway was twice married, his first
wife dying in 1S70; and he was married for the
second time in 1872. He died surrounded by the
members of his family, who were ever to him a
great comfort, especially in his declining years.

N

ursery Notes.
— « — -

MR. F. SMALE'S, TORQUAY.

The Torre Park Nursery, being but a town
branch of the larger nursery on the Barton Road,
some three miles from Torre Station, it has not a
complete collection of plants, but amongst those
noticed on a recent occasion was a grand collection
of Cannas. The growth of the plants was sturdy
and strong, and they will be sure to flower well
when planted iuthe open ground.

Another special feature was the zonal Pelar-
goniums. These are stout, sturdy plants now in
flower, among them being varieties with blooms of
unusual size and vividness of colour. Here was
Nicholas II., crimson scarlet; J. M. Barrie, bright
pleasing crimson ; W. E. Corden, clear scarlet, with
bright eye, very fine ; Virginia, pure snow-white;
Sir Henry Irving, rosy magenta, very free flower-
ing, and dwarf in habit ; Conde, deep crimson, very-
large ; Conan Doyle, clear salmon pink ; Herrick,
glowing crimson, very large and of good form ;
Lilaciua, a very distinct shade of lilac, a choice
variety ; Sir J. Kitson, purple magenta, with
white centre, free grower aud bloomer; Ian Mae-
laren, deep salmon, fine in form aud colour ;
Madame Bruaut, white, netted purple, with purple
band, very distinct ; Southey, rich vermilion, white,

a blotch ; Wilhelmina, rich salmon colour, with
scarlet centre, producing trusses of large size.

It is some time since I saw such perfect speci-
mens of Gymnograrama schizophylla gloriosa as
were growing here in 7-inch pots. The numerous
fronds, with their finely-divided pinna?, overlapped
each other, and in some measure, by their density
and compactness, reminded one of Todea superba.
W. S.

SOCIETIES.

INTERNATIONAL HORTICULTURAL
EXHIBITION AT ST. PETERSBURG.

May 17.— The third International Flower-show held at St.
Petersburg was opened by the Czar in the Tauride Palace, a
buildiDg comprising vast saloons built by Catherine II., and
subsequently presented by her to one of her generals. Con-
sidering the great climatic disadvantages under which the
gardeners of this country suffer, the show is remarkably fine ;
and though many of its best feature* have been contributed
by Belgian, French, and German growers, who, at great
expense, have sent many large groups, yet has it rarely been
the good fortune of either Mr. Ker or myself to see so many
hundreds of fine Tea and Perpetual Roses grown in pots as the
local growers have massed in various groups.

The great body of the main saloons, especially that portion
near the royal platform, is filled with large groups of Palms
from the imperial gardens, some of these, and notably the
Caryotas, being really magnificent specimens. In conjunction
are standard Rhododendrons, well -dowered, from M. Moser,
of Versailles, and masses of Hydrangeas from Sat.lier, of
Paris. The French section is the strongest, many notable
nurs?rymen being well represented.

MM. Ani.rk and Martinet have very large and elaborate
plans of landscape gardening ; and more than one French
amateur lias sent the best of his Orchids.

The English exhibitors are not many — Messrs. Ker, of
Liverpool, witli Amaryllis; Messrs. Sander, of St. Albans,
with a collection of general stove plants ; and Messrs. Veitch,
of Chelsea, with insectivorous plants, are the sole represen-
tatives of British horticulture.

The Belgians are strong in Antburiums, Azalea pontica
seedlings, Araucarias and Palms ; and Messrs. Peeters, of
Brussels, have sent a really remarkable collection of Orchids,
containing some of the latest and most interesting hybrids.
Lilacs and Azalea indica, grown as standards, are misses of
flower, and relieve the darker corners of the great balls,
whilst in the grounds outside arc many groups of variegated
and choice Conifer;.-, and examples of fruit-tree training, such
as our French cousins alone produce.

Considering that in shaded streets there is still snow, and that
bitter easterly winds prevail, one can hut honour the energy
of the directors of the Exhibition in having produced such a
show, which, cv.-n when judged by the standard of tle.se seen
in Western Europe, is of the highest excellence.

The Emperor and suite passed rapidly through the exhibition,
ami in the small English department Mr. Veitch had the honour
to explain the marvels of the Nepenthes, Droseras, Dionsea, &c,
of which his firm had sent such a notable and rare collection.
The splendid Amaryllis of Messrs. Ker, Liverpool, gave bril-
liancy to the other groups, and were also warmly praised and
admired. Mr. 1'. Sander, by permission of the Czar, dedicated
a new Palm. Romanovia Nieolai, to bis majesty. J. II. V.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

/v. „/. Dr. M. T. Masters (in the chair), Dr. Holler, Rev
W. Wilks, Mr. K. V. lm Thurn, ami Rev. G. Henslow, Hon.

Sec.

D /.. wliis, .l'c— A leaf was received bearing

decayed spots, apparently clue to fungoid growth. This,
together with a t'each diseased by a form of mildew, and
Apple twigs with knots, were forwarded to Dr. W. G. Smith
for examination.

Podisoma on Sarin.— Dr. Masters exhibited specimens of
this fungus, which gives rise to Rcestelia cancellata on
Pear-trees.

.K,-i,l,,n,i ,i,„>»l«ri«'.-Hc also brought specimens .if the
"Gooseberrj cluster-cupa." It occurs on leaves arid fruit, of
the Gooseberrj ami Currant. In some seasons it is of frequent
occurrence,

Morel. —Dr. Masters also showed a small Morel, found— as
is somewhat rarely the case— growing singly. He recorded
tin tut that alter two Poplars had been blown down in Mr.
Masters' garden at Canterbury in 1837, Morels grew every
other year round the stumps. Mr. lm Thurn observed that
the Morel was a common fungus on the Wiltshire moors
among Beeches.

ROYAL BOTANICAL AND HORTICUL-
TURAL OF MANCHESTER.

May 10.— The usual Whitsuntide Exhibition was opened on
the above date at the Botanical Gardens, Old Tratlord.
Established about thirty-seven years ago, these exhibitions
have been among the most prominent and successful in the
United Kingdom.

This year, however, the exhibition fell short of its usual
excellence, partly, perhaps, from the backward season, but
certainly in a large measure to the apathy of local cultivators.
There may be good reasons for this, for we cannot think it is
due to a slight reduction in the prize money offered in one
important class for Orchids. At most shows where Orchids
are a feature, the local growers are pleased to exhibit their
plants without any thought or priz;-money.

At the Temple Show of the Royal Horticultural Society,
for example, such amateurs have exhibited as Baron Sir II.
Schroder, Sir Trevor Lawrence, W. Gurney Fowler, Sir Fredk.
Wigan, H. S. Leon, and numerous others. They do this for
the love they have for horticulture, and their brethren
further north might well imitate them. The collections of
Orchids in and around Manchester cannot be excelled in any
part of the world, but on tins important occasion the owners
of them have certainly failed to display this superiority.

We have missed for a few years contributions from Mr. Fred
Hardy's collection, one of the best in Manchester ; this year
we miss the Elijah Ashw.n-t.Ys, Mr. Warburton's, Mr. Statter's,
and the beautiful collection which Mr. W. Thompson, or
Stone, Staffordshire, has usually sent. The show is a pro-
tracted one, being open from the Friday preceding Whit
Sunday until the following Thursday evening. The Orchids
are staged in a heated house.

Orchids.
In the competitive classes, Mr. James Cypher gained
1st. prize for a group of plants, which was very tastefully
arranged, partly on stages and partly on the ground. Many
fine specimens of La-lia purpurata, Cattlcya Mcndeli, C.
Mossiu>, very fine, splendidly-grown plants or Oncidium
coneolor, and Sophronitis grandillora. Many interesting
varieties were also in the group, including Ltelia Digbyana,
of exceptional size; very fine forms of Catt'.eya Aclaudise,
one of a dark chocolate colour entirely, no bars of any kind
being present. Mr. John Robson, Bowdon, Manchester,
gained 2nd honours, with a fine group of well-grown plants,
among which were two fine forms of Odontoglossum
crispum.

For a collection of Cattleyas and La-lias, the 1st prize was
awarded to Mr. .1. Cypher ; Messrs. He vrn k Sons were 2nd.
For ten specimen Orchids in bloom, Tuos. Harker, Esq.,
Fallowliel.l (gr., Mr. Mulloy), was 1st.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Ilcaton, Bradford, Yorks,
mule a tine display of good and choice Orchids, amongst
which was a collection of semi-established plants of Odonto-
glossum crispum of a very good type, and which was stated
to have been gathered from Messrs. Chari.esworth's own
mountains. A noticeable plant, in the group was Odonto-
glossum " Harvengtensc " which is supposed to be a natural
hybrid between O. triumphans and O. crispum ; this is
doubtful, and the lip is the only portion of the flower which
suggests the slightest trace of the latter parent. It is.
however, a very good plant, and has found its way to a good
home for Odontoglossums. O. hystrix magnitieum had line
colour and size, and O. crispum "var. Georgiana" is a flower
of pretty form and markings (Gold Medal).

Messrs. John Cowan & Co., Ltd., The Nurseries, Gateacre,
made an excellent display, occupying a length of about 40 feet
of wide staging. Noticeable in the group were some very
peculiarly marked varieties of Lalia purpuratl, three tine
plants being almost pure white, with the exception or faint
penrillings or lilac in the labellums. Many good forms of
Cattleya Mossise were shown, one called C. M. magniiicuin
being the best. Cattleya citrina was shown splendidly in
this group (Gold Medal).

L'HoRTtcoLE Coi.oniale (Linden), Brussels, made a grol
show with about fifty plants, every one of which was of a
choice variety. Odontoglossum crispum var. " Countess of
Derby" was thought to be ther.iM. d. resistance of the group,
• and it certainly is an elegant flower, a branched-spike bore
twenty flowers or good shape, medium size, and peculiarly
marked with small round spots. Many forms of O. X Adrians!
(O. crispum X Hunnewelliauum) were displayed, varying in
colour from very pale yellow or dirty white flowers to the
deep coloured forms of O. sceptram. There were fine forms of
Miltonia vexillaria, one almost pure white called " candidula."
The Belgians seem still to be able to show us how to grow
M. vexillaria, as well as many Odontoglossums.

First-class Certificates were awarded to Odontoglossum
crispum var. Countess of Derby and O. Adrians var.
leopardinum.

Awards of Merit were given to O. hybriduin var. fascinator,
O. Kuckerianuni var. yueen Victoria, Miltonia vexillaria var.
vittata, and M. v. candidula (Large Gold Medal).

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Nurseries, Enfield,
showed a small but choice group of plants. Odontoglossum
Andersonianum gigantcum was thought worthy of a First-
class Certilicate by the Orchid judges, a similar Award being
given to a fine plant of Cattleya intermedia alba. The same
firm showed a good form of Odontoglossum X ex.cllens, and
a pretty white form of O. Pescatm-ei, called vaginalis (Silver
Medal).

May ,27, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

345

Duncan Gilmour, Esq., of Sheffield, staged a good group
of plants, principally consisting of Cattleya Mossise (Silver
Medal).

Miscellaneous.

There were classes for Stove and Greenhouse Plants,
Gro ips of Miscellaneous Plants, arranged to produce effect!
Roses in pots, Ferns, Gloxinias, Calceolarias, Begonias,
Caladiuras, &c.

Messrs. Waterer & Son, Bagshot, Surrey, had one of their
usual grand displays of Rhododendrons, and a large space
was occupied by their exhibit. A novelty, named Pink Pearl
(Award of Merit), caused a sensation on account of its line
blooms and warm rose colour.

Messrs. Webb <fc Son, Stourbridge, put up a group of herba-
ceous Calceolarias, of a good strain.

Messrs. W. Clibran & Son, Altrincham, exhibited herba-
cepns and greenhouse plants, brightened by pretty clumps of
Salvia splendens.

Messrs. Dxcksons, Chester, staged a nice group of a new
yellow Carnation, and a collection of Auriculas (Silver Medal).

Mr. J. J. Upton, The Nurseries, Irlani, sent an exhibit of
bis strain of Gloxinias, which was unsurpassed by any shown
from private collections (Silver Medal).

Messrs. W. & J. Birkenhead, Sale, had an interesting col-
lection of Ferns (Silver Medal).

The Misses Hopkins, Knutsford, Cheshire, had a very pretty
table of Violas and Auriculas. A. Golden King is well worth
growing, on account of its very free-growing and (lowering
habit.

FEUIT GROWING IN KENT.*

{Concluded from p. 324.)

Is the Future. — Without in any way venturing to prophe y
we have seen enough of the success of the best fruit growers,
to outline in some degree the probable course of commercial
success in the future, for it is to the newly-planted orchards,
where the suits are of the best for their special purposes, and
where clean cultivation obtains, that we must look for our
chief supplies in time to come. In America and Canada, they
consider 15 years the average life of a paying orchard; the
trees are then destroyed, and a fresh start made. In this
country 25 to 30 years may be considered as the outside
limit, and by that time the available nutriment in the soil
may be considered to be exhausted by the standing trees.

It will, therefore, be well before that time expires to
provide other orchards to replace the condemned patches.
This may appear to many a drastic proposal, but the
stimulating manures now given tend to strong sappy growth,
therefore I think I have not overstated the case. A^'ain the
public is fast beiiej; educated t<> distinguish between jjond and
inferior fruits, and growers will find their future profits to in1
in producing examples of tin1 finest sorts.

At present, colour is the market factor in Apples more than
quality, red and yellow being chosen for dessert, and green or
golden for kitchen suits, and expert observers win notice
that this excludes many of our best flavoured fruits, which
being russety or of a nondescript appearance, do not sell on
the market boards, though where quality is asked for they
eannot long remain unknown. We may look also to improved
methods of packing to secure higher prices. Instead of the
half-sieve (four gallons) ami the sieve baskets, choice fruits
should be boxed and placed in punnets and suitable pick-
ages, so that on reaching their destination they need not be
again handled before reaching purchasers. Many advocate a
non-returnable wooden box, such as is used for Oranges. A
start has been made with ripe Gooseberries, White Currants,
and Raspberries in punnets, and good prices result. The
best Strawberries are of course marketed in J lb. and 1 lb.
reputed punnets. I think also that the use of artificial
manures suitable for special soils and crops must engage the
attention of growers in the future. It is evident, from the
use of kainit, soot, fish guano, basic slag, and rich portable
manures, that the fertility of the land must be increased and
retained, while with such manures the crop of weeds which
so often follows the use of stable manure may be avoided.
There is another way in which growers should copy American
producers, and that is by planting large bulks of one sort of
either Plums, Apples, or Pears, so that day by day buyers can
make sure of a supply of the same article. The wisdom of
this is seen in the fact that when a retailer gets an Apple
that suits his customers, and they have taken a fancy to it,
the supply is often gone, and he buys another sort, which has
to be tried before the public will take to it freely ; whereas if
a salesman were able to say " I shall have this sort for 14 days
or so," the retailer could better gauge his wants and suit his
customers. This also applies to Plums, and in fact to ;<11
fruits. As I have before stated, all old and worn-out orchards
Should be destroyed, as I feel confident that, with the vast
quantity of improved sorts which the nurserymen of the
present time have distributed, there will be no paying market
for inferior fruit. The fruit of the future, again, must be
carefully gathered, evenly sorted, well stored, and honestly
packed ; those men whose character is known on the market
can always make the best prices, and any sharp practices in
the way of mixing sorts and topping-up always recoil on the
sender.

* Extracts from a paper by Mr. George Bunyard, Vice-
President of the Fruit Committee of the Royal Horticultural
Society, read before the Members of the Society of Arts on
Wednesday, May 10, 1800, Sir Owen Tudor Burne, G.C.I. E.,
K.C.S.I., in |h«i chair.

Growers, too, must look further afield for outlets, and I feel
that the system of sending such huge bulks to London
markets, only to be transhipped to other cities and towns, is
doomed. Our largest growers pack their fiuit, to suit distant
markets, in baskets, barrels, <,r eases, as the particular in irket
affects, and send it direct from their local stations instead of
to London first, and thus make the best prices. It is obvious
to all that there is neither time nor space in the large London
markets to deal with the vast quantity that is sent there in
busy seasons.

These remarks, however, are in no way intended to
disparage London markets or London salesmen who do their
very best for clients ; but the course indicated will save those
e,luts ..f produce in the London market, and prevent lowest
price3. London will always be well sup] 'He I, and can
consume a vast quantity, but producers on either alirge or

small seale will find it pay best fo send the best only for
London sale. It is manifestly unfair to send the I e it only i<<
di staid markets, and the inferior to London, because the
carriage is less, for it is a known fact that (as a rale) London
buyers always give higher prices for picked fruit than
provincial markets realise. There is a growing demand for
fruit jellies, flavourings, temperance drinks, jams, preserved
and bottled fruits, and tint her developments of these
industries are to lie looked for, not only in a trade sense, 1 ut
in private families, as the process is now so simple with the
new and improved automat i bottles. I have not touched mi

the culture of fruit under -1 iss, because it is not within the
BCOpe Of this paper. The most prosperous branch of this
culture n no doubt the growth of peaches and Nectarines.
But we yet require more time t) kno v what effect the
maintenance and repair of the comparatively flimsy glass
structures of the market growers may amount to, before we
can consider the matter tested to an issue. Tomato-growing
is really properly treated as a vegetable industry, though on
the border land between a fruit and a vegetable.

Fruit Sales by Auction. — These sales in Kent are looked
forward to with great interest by buyers and sellers. Cheiries
are generally sold first, on the trees, and the competition is
often very keen for choice lots. They have b»en known to
make £80 per a<r\ but that is an exceptional price. Plums
are often included. Bush fruits and strawberries are some-
times sold by auction where the grower prefers a certain price
"rash down ' to the chances of market sale;. All these arc
called soft fruit >ales, and later on Pears and Apple-, are al=o
sold by auction as hard fruits. In these sales the buyers are
either local men who make it a trade, or London salesmen
win. have made contracts to supply buyers. The buy its take
all risks, the sellers getting ready-money, and safe-guarding
themselves by the customary rules as to damages, it is not
advisable to sell fruit by auction from trees under ten years

old, BS naturally buyers pickers are not so eard'ul in ^din-ring

the fiu't as the owners would be, and young trees are apt to
be Beriously damaged bj heavy ladders being used. The
growers pick young trcei with step-ladders, winch stand

without the support of the tree itself.

The Kent System in other Counties.— >1&y visits to various

fruil ceniies have impressed on my mind the r;l<t thai we in
Kent do not enjoy a monopoly of the best soils and situations,
and it is certain that where the Kent systems of pruning
and culture are faithfully carried out, there are thousands of
acres of available land tha1 could be profitably 1 'rough t under
fruit culture. This is demonstrated in many distant counties,
where the orchards have bten started with healthy young
tree., the results astonishing the planters. I, as an expert,
receive very tine fruit for naming from even Scotland and
Ireland.

Social Aspect. — It will be conccd3d that the growth of fruit
lias hid a marked effect on the health of the middle and
lower classes, and has also, I believe, helped the cause of
temperance. This is due honour to sanitary engineers and
authorities. I elaim that the health of (he large towns and
cities has been appreciably improved by the fact, that good
wholesome fruit can now be purchased at a cheap rate, a
remark which covers Oranges ami foreign produce also. It is
admitted that the extended culture of fruit has perceptibly
raised the standard of living in Kent, as among the rural
population, so much can be earned by the women, girls, and
b iys, combined with the higher wages paid as pieee-work to
the fruit men who live in the county, that the villagers are
better fed and clothed than they used to I.e. At the same
time fruit-growing prevents that depletion of villages which
goes on in other places, while the general prosperity of the
country is increased. This is also a national matter, because
the best soldiers and sailors are found in recruits reared in
the rural districts. It is well known that large numbers of
fruit -pickers spend the summer months in Kent, coming from
London and other populous towns, who, we fear, do not
always take much cash back with them, but doubtless their
health is benefited by work in the open air.

Probable Profits. — Hitherto I have spoken of practical
matters relating to culture and disposal of produce.
Naturally some idea of the profits of this industry will be
looked for, and I feci unable to give these with any approach
to accuracy because the information at my disposal has been
rendered to me confidentially; and to speak of some of the
large returns made would be unfair without discounting
the>e results by losses through bad years, caused by wet
seasons, late spring frosts, summer blights, gales, &c.
Therefore, to arrive at an estimate it is best to take three
years' profits and average them, when the result will work out
as follows :—

Cherry orchards on grass, per acre, £20.

Apple „ „ ,, £15.

Mixed „ „ ., £15.

These estimates are for established orchards in full bearing,
and such would probably pay the rent if used as grazing land
for sheep independent of the top fruit crop.

Per Acre.
Mixed plantations with top and bottom

fiuit over four years old £20

berries alone £25

Has J d jerries ,, £20

lied Currants ,, £12

Black „ „ £15

It will be readily understood that much depends on the
state and condition ol the orchards, and it may be remarked
that these average profits air frequentlj doubled and trebled,
while absolute losses are comparatively rare.

The cost of establishing a grass orchard is war ion sly
estimated at £15 to £20 per acre for the first year's outlay. It'
on arable land (as before stated) the outlay may be recouped
by vegetable crop; before the laud is laid down to -mss. The
expense of establishing a mixed plantation is placed at £30 to
£40 per acre. In the latter, an earlier crop amply repays lor
the extra initial expense. In estimating profits, some ex-
perienced farmers consider seven years a better average, as
they tear that a less term is too short, as profits are sadly
discounted by such indirect causes as strikes, epidemics, cold
seasons, ami wet weather.

The Krnt System off. nure as between Landlord and Tenant.
The rule in Mid-Kent is for the landlord to pay for such
permanent trees as the tenant elects to plant. Some landlords
also further allow a sum for planting and staking. Having
first arranged with the agent or steward, the tenant is bound
to plant, protect, and keep in order all such permanent trees.
Hut if the tenant makes a plantation, he furnishes all the
bushes, canes, and plants necessar/ at his own expense, and
at the expiration of the tenancy he has no claim on the
landlord for his outlay. This is a simple matter, and has
worked well when the tenancy is 14 years or more ; but if a
tenant dies, or leaves before the expiration of his lease, the
bushes are valued to the incoming tenant as tenant right : or
the landlord pays for them, and gets the sum from the new
tenant ; or should he be unable to pay, an extra rent is charged
to cover the landlord's outlay. The passing of the Markel
Gardeners' Act, 1895, placed tenants who have planted in the
past on a firmer footing, as under it the outgoing tenant can
elaim compensation for his outlay (before 1895); which is
assessed by valuation if tenant and landlord aie unable to
agree as to tei ins.

It frequently occurs that valuers* estimates differ widely,
and a third man, as arbitrator, has to be consulted. I
think in all eases a proper understanding should lie arrived
at on entering into a tenancy, and from experience I
believe nearly all landlords and a;, eats are ready to meet
the wishes of a tenant p assessing capital and energy. In
order, however, to guard against an unfair advantage being
taken by an improving tenant, it is customary on many
estates for the words "under no circumstances shall this
tenancy be considered as a market garden " are inserted in
most leases. In other cases where the tenant finds the trees
and plants, it is not unusual for an agreement to be made
whereby the tenant at the end of his term receives a capi-
talised sum equal to several years' purchase on the increased
letting value of the holdings, as then determined by agree-
ment or valuation. In my opinion the Act would have been
improved if a definite number of years had been fixed under
which compensation could be claimed, as bush fruits are
practically useless after 10 to 15 years, Plums begin to
decline after 25 years, and Apples after 00 years ; but under a
14 years' lease a tenant should have reaped his profit on all
outlay except perhaps on a Cherry orchard. Undoubtedly the
best plan is for the tenant to be a freeholder.

Cider.— As already stated, in olden days cider was largely
made in Kent, ant] most old farmhouses had a cider press, but
beer has now almost entirely taken its place as a local
beverage. Your Society has already had a paper from
Mr. C. Radcliffe Cooke, M.P. for Hereford, and I need not
further allude to the subject, except incidentally, to mention
that during the past few years it has been taken up by r>
Society in the Swanley district of Kent, which commands a
ready sale ; but they obtain some of their fruit from Somerset-
shire and Herefordshire, although, on the other hand, many
tons of fruit find their way from Brenchleyand Paddock-wood
orchards to the Norfolk eidermakers, who certainly turn out
a beverage that is refreshing and agreeable to those who are
not born in a cider country, and who do not know the crmial
points of excellence. Cider-making undoubtedly helps the
prices of Kentish Apples, and a large bulk of good sorts, but not
of a size quito up to market sale, being sold for cider, relieves
the London markets. The Hereford makers, however, main-
tain that unless special "vintage" fruit is mixed with our
Kent Apples the cider does not keep, because of the absence of
tannin.

To indicate the interest taken in fruit culture by cottagers
and small holders of land, no less than 50,000 lists of fruits in
leaflet form with hints for culture have been sold by the Royal
Horticultural Society, and a new edition is now issued and
sold cheaply to county councils, the clergy, &c.

DISTANCES TO PLANT.
Orchard trees, standard Apples, Cherries, Pears, or Tlmus in
orchards should be planted about 15 to 30 feet apart, ami must
be well staked and protected from rabbits and stock.

Number ok Market Trees required per Acre :--
1,210 at 6 ft. apart— Closely pruned Pears on quince, or Apples
on paradise, and for Gooseberries and Currants.

346

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Mat 2?, 1899.

680 at 8 ft. apart— Apples on paradise (every other one to be

moved in a tew years).
435 at 10 ft. apart— Feathered Apples oi Plums.
303 at 12 ft. apart— Permanent bush trees, pyramids, and

nuts.
103 at 15 ft. apart — Standard Plums, Damsons, or red Cherries.
134 at IS ft. apart— ditto.

108 at 20 ft apart— Standard Apples, Pears, &c.
75 at 24 ft. apart— Ditto and Cherries.
48 at 30 It, apart— Cherries where pastured underneath.
40 at 30 ft. apart— Cherries or Apples.
38 at 40 ft. apart -Cherries or strong Peirs.

In plantations where there is both a top and bolt m orop
the standards may he placed at greater distances, noting that
the Apples and Pears give a heavier shade than Plums.

Strawberries for market (about) at IS ft., 10,350; at 2 ft.
11,000 per acre.

LIST OF BEST PAYING MARKET FRUITS.

Apples.
Those marked " are recommended for orchard standards,
the rest as plantation bushes or pyramids on paradise stocks,
t These are suitable for either purpose.

Dessert Apples In sell direct from the tree.

tMr. Gladstone : July-August

t Beauty of Bath....: : „ „

Yellow Ingestre, or Summer Golden Pippin ... September

t Devonshire Quarrenden August

tColonel Vaughan Sept.-Oct.

Lady Sudeley Aug.-Sept.

fWorcebter Pearmain September

Dessert Apples which require to he stored for a time before

Marketing.

t Duchess Favourite (or Duchess of Gloucester). Sept.-Oct.

t King of Pippins Oct.-Jan.

tCox's Orange Pippin Nov.-Jan.

tGascoyne's Scarlet Seedling Nov.-Feb.

tCox's Pomona Oct. -Nov.

tBamnann's Winter Reinette Dec. -Jan.

tCoekle's Pippin Oct.-Nov.

tAllington Pippin Nov.-Feb.

*Duke of Devonshire March-May

Kitchen Apples which require staring before Marketing.

tStone's, or Loddington Aug.-Dec.

tYVainer's King ,„ November

tLord Derby Nov.-Dec.

'Queen Caroline (or Brown's Codlin) Oct.-Dec.

•Towei of Glamis .. Oct.-Dec.

■Wellington Nov. -Mar.

'Winter Queening Dec. -Feb.

t Bismarck Oct.-Jan.

"Newton Wonder Nov.-May

tfiraham's Jubilee , Oct.-Mar.

•Brantley's Seedling Dec. -April

•Golden Noble Nov.-Dec.

Lam's Prince Albert Nov. -April

■ Ilambledon Deux Ans Mar -May

Northern Greening Jan. -Mar.

'Hau.bling's Seedling Dec-Mar.

•Alfriston Nov.-Mar.

The following make gr.-rnd trees and bear regularly when
about 20 years old. A proportion should be placed in every
grass orchard : —

Blenheim Orange Nov.-Feb.

Kent Fillbasket November

Striped Beeting Nov.-Feb.

MeredeMenage ., Dcc.-Jan.

Kitchen Apple* to market directfrom the tree.

tEarly White Transparent July-Aug,

•EarlyJulian Aug -Sept!

tPotts' Seedling n n

tLord Grosvenbr ,,

tLord Suftield ,

t Keswick Codlin

tEarly Rivers'

tDomino

t Duchess of Oldenburg M ,,

tEcklinville Seedling Sept.-Oct.

tGrenadier Codling

Blanks Codlin

tGolden Spire Oct.-Dec.

Stirling Castle <>ct.-Nov!

tNew Hawthorndeii Nov.-Dec

The softer kinds of Apples are best fur local sales as they
bruise in transit to distant markets.

Pears.

Market Pears for Orchard Trees.

H^sle September

Crawfonl, or Chalk August

Jargonelle

Williams' Bon Chretien , September

Dr. Jules Guyoi

Pitmaston Duchess Oct.-Nov

Fertility '.'.. September

Beurre Bosc (let. -Nov.

Beurre Capiamnont Sept.-Oct!

Catillac (for stewing) Dec-Mar!

Vicar of Witikfleld Dec. -Jan!

Pears as bush trees on quince stock.

lii arm i (Rivers') August

Williams' Bon Chretien September

Dr. Jules Guyot ,-; September

Souvenir de Congres

Conference October

Marguerite Marillat

Louise Bonne of Jersey

Pitmaston Duchess ... Oct.-Nov.

Marie Louise d'Uccle

Beurre Clairgeau

Ernile d'Heyst

Durondeau

Princess

Beurre Jean van Geert November

Fondant de Thirriott Nov.-Dec.

Doyenne du Cornice Nov.-Dec.

The list mentioned on Quince stock can also be grown as
standards where the soil is suitable for Pears, and many other
kinds grown in gardens can be introduced to meet any special
local demand.

Plums.

Profitable Market Plums, either as s'undords in orchardear as

half-standards end bushes in planted :ons.

Rivers' Early Prolific July-Aug.

Czar (Rivers') August

Heron (Rivers')

Early Orleans and Prime .if Wales "

('"'«/;/ in places where then succeed.)

Belgian Purple September

Belle de Louvain

Black Diamond

Curlew (Rivers')

Jefferson's Gage

Smith's Blue Prolific .'...'!

Bush Plum of Kent

White Magnum Bonum

Qullin's Golden Gage August

Pond's Seedling September

Victoria or Royal Dauphin August

Sultan

Early Transparent Gage September

Wyedale Oct.-Nov.

Monarch Sept-Oet.

. Green Gages require a favourable situation. The best are—

Denniston's Gage August

Early Transparent September

Bryanston's Late Gage

Late Transparent ...

Jefferson's

Old Green Gage August

Cambridge Gage September

Coe's Golden Drop ('ate) Sept. -Oct.

Damsons.
Bradley's King. Hereford Prune. Frogmore (large).

Shropshire. Farleigh Prolific, or Crittenden.

The above Damsons arc in fruit in September and October.
Useful to shelter plantations on the exposed portions.

Cherries.

For Orchard Standards. [It is useless to plant less limn em acre,
as they do not pan to look after, scan birds, a,-.. .... ,. less area.)

White and Amber Hearts.

Frogmore Early gar]y

Elton Heart. Early

Kent Bigarreau .Medium

Napoleon Bigarreau Late

Florence Bigarreau ... Lute

Emperor Fiancis Late

Ludwig's Bigarreau gaily

Red Sorts.

Kentish-Medium. Flemish— Late. Morello— Late.

These can be used as standards or bushes.

Black Hearts.

Old Black Heart Early

Black Eagle "['.'.'. Medium

Early Rivers' Firs| ,,.„.,

Cluster or Caroline Late

Werder's Black . Earlv

W,atf^° "". '"'.v. Medium

Black Tartarian jw

Bush Fruits.

Currants- Block Naples, Baldwin's Black, Lee's Proline
(black). New Red Dutch, Raby Castle (red).

Raspberries — Norwich Wonder, Bunyard's Superlative.

Qooseberrm.— Lancashire Lad, Whinham's Industry Bed
Warrington, Crown Bob, Keepsake, Rifleman.

Strawberries.— Royal Sovereign (early), Eleanor (laic) Sir
J. Paxton, President, and Laxton's Monarch, for, local sale
where they succeed. British Queen, Latest of All and
Dr. Hogg.

Mr. W. W. BebrV said it had given him great pleasure to
listen to this paper, and lie might say that on this subject
Mr. Bunyard was a prophet, not without honour, even in his
own country, and the tenant farmers and landloids of Kent
would always be grateful to him for the pioneer work he had
done, for the advice he had given, and for the indomitable
perseverance with which he had carried out his experiments
over many years. The question of selection and packing of
fruit was all-important. If he had 100 bushels of Apples
from a tree, he would rather send 60 per cent, of the best
even if he had to throw away the other 40 per cent., but that!
was not at all necessary. I f you picked out the very best, say
20 per cent., and packed them carefully in boxes, and then
took a further 40 or 511 per cent, and packed them carefully in
baskets, the returns from those two sections would be greater

than from the whole 100 bushels marketed in a careless way •
there would be a saving in carriage, in packing, and in other
ways, and you would still have 30 to 40 per cent, of sound fruit
to deal with, which you could dispose of to the "smasher " as
the jam maker or cider maker was termed, at a fairly re-
munerative price. The same thing would apply to every kind
of fruit. Another improvement was the steam cultivation of
the land, not only in clearing old woodlands, but even on
some of the best land in Kent, where he would not think of
planting fruit trees without first thoroughly ploughing it and
stirring the subsoil by steam. He recently broke up 14 acres
first ploughing it 0 to 12 inches deep by steam, and then
following the burrows with a powerful steel implement to
break up the soil underneath, being careful not t.i brim- the
subsoil to the top, but thoroughly breaking it up from t'l to
24 inches deep. The whole cost was not more than £» per
acre if you hired the implements, and that was quite saved
... the cost of planting. ArtiBcial manure was a, o he r ,u
portent point Any farmer or fruit-grower could now be
supplied with exactly the manure his land or crop reuuired
and at a moderate price-either prepared bones, guano or
some of the phospbatic manures which had been rel'erred to

t.„l , PnnC11>alr/''lSOnS f0r Whioh he wou1'1 recommend
these things ,n preference to farm-yard manure, was the
economy ,n application. Apart from the question of weeds
which was very serious, especially with manure from London
the expense of hauling 20 or 25 tons of farm-yard manure on
toan acre of fruit land, getting it to the plantation, and hen
getting it out and m amongst the fruit bushes, was enormous
whereas if you had a suitably-prepared manure, wit) the
proper quantity of potash, phosphates, and ammonia it
would al go in a one-horse cart and be carried out and sown
broadcast on the land tor three or four shillings. On a a 'e
scale that saving alone would make a good living for the fruit
grower With regard to foreign competition, there lad bee
complaints for 25 years, but he thought the time had conic to
admit that the British fruit-grower was largely dependent on
the foreign and colonial produce. In the old day?' ,
quantity of fruit could be sold during the season ; here a
shop here and there, and fruit was very dear, and when an"
unusually large quantity was sent to market, there was no one
to distribute it. The season then only lasted three Or fo m-
months, but now we had choice fruit all he "ear ro id
There were hundreds of shops, stores, and barrows-fruit was
constantly put before the public, who were thus educated to
the consumption of it, and insisted on having it, and ttiuTtl e
fruit-grower was far better off than he would have bee, with
out the foreign supplies. Reference had been made to tl e
advantage of fruit and Hop growing in keeping ,aZ,re« on
.,e soil, which was a matter in which he took great .teres"
Things were looking up a little in every branch tfagVL, , e
and hey wanted more labourers than they did a few yarrs
ago, but they could not get them. They were often in great
strait, for men to do a little extra work which they k -w
wo .11 pay for doing. If you went from >

Prosperous districts, up into the hilly and barren parts you
would find only one in three, or one in six of tl, cot'taX

"I'"''1, '"'t "-a™ where fruit and Hops were grown ami

£« the towns, there was an enormotu. dearth "of l^ou"
Instead of getting the ass.stance they used to have from the
h,l country, when there was any extra work, they could not
now find it. In the villages where fruit-growing was carried
on, there was work during the winter in pruning, manuring
digging, making new plantations, and so on, and he wjs
paying £1,000 in wages now, where £100 was paid when he
was young ; and a house could not be got for love or money,

though five miles away there were empty houses, 1 ause

there was no work for the men to do. The fruit industry
therefore, was a grand thing, and it must be the same in many
.tie, ...unties. Fruit was becoming more and more popular
everyday; ,t had never been overdone yet, except in one
year, 18S6, when there was the biggest all-round crop of fruit
eve, known, and at that time the system of distribution had
not .lev eloped in proportion. There might he a crop now
three times as big as that, and it would all go to market and
the pnbhc wr,u:d get the benefit of it. Enormous quantities
"I hothouse Grapes and Tomatos were now produced in this
country. Mr. George Munro had given evidence before a
Parliamentary Committee that in one year he had sold 700
tons of English-grown hothouse Grapes, in addition to those
from the Channel Islands, and more than 1,000 tons of
Tomatos.

Mr. .1 Assbee said it was perfectly true, as the last speaker
had said, that it was much better to keep inferior fruit out
of the market altogether, than to put it in with the better

class. He had repeatedly seen the sale of g 1 AppVs entirely

spoiled because certain growers thoughtthatthey could get the
better ..I the public by putting inferior ones in with them
There were two distinct classes of buyers: the man who
bought the best and gave the best prices, and the man who
bought, the worst and only paid the lowest price. If you sent
a mixed lot, the good man would not look at it, and conse-
quent y the lower-, lass buyer must have it, and he would only
take it at Ins own price, and thus the grower often did not
realise the cost of carriage, simply through carelessness and
stupidity in packing his goods, foreign competition in fruit
was like foreign competition in everything else-cereals hay
straw, eggs butter, cheese, or poultry. Foreign fruit couid
not be kept out of the market, and it answered a very useful
purpose. No doubt, It had stimulated the public taste for
fruit ; the more fruit people ate, the more thev liked it. He
had often wondered what our forefathers did' for fruit- the
people, generally, could have had hardly any He could
remember the time when the only thing you could get in
winter was an Orange. The colonies were making great strides
in this direction. Ctpe Colony had recently come to the fore,

May 27, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

347

and within a decade would be sending fruit here which would
be a surprise to many people. But it would come iu when the
English fruit was over. English Grapes were now just
finished, and there would be a good opening for Grapes from
the Cape. They had a few this year, but nothing to what
would be sent in a year or two. It was the same with Apples,
which were just beginning to arrive. Men had gone to the
Cape from California, who were laying down hundreds of acres
of land in fruit, and they would be sending thousands of
packages before many years. But it would do no harm to
English fruit, which was equal to anything in the world when
well grown and properly sent to market.

Mr. George Gordon, V.M.H., said the course advocated by
Mr. Berry of cultivating the land for fruit-growing by steam,
was much better than what was described in the paper as the
usual plan in Kent, namely, making holes, planting the trees,
and keeping the surrounding space free from grass and weeds.
It was much better to thoroughly pulverise the whole soil, so as
to allow of the free growth of the roots. A cultivated orchard was
preferable to a grass orchard, though it might not be necessary
to do more than horse-hoe it once or twice in a season, so as to
maintain a loose surface and prevent cracking. It was quite
open to discussion whether even Cherry orchards should not
be dealt with in this way, with crops and bush fruit between
the trees. For some years he had been watching a Cherry
orchard formed in this way. At first it was simply kept clean,
and after a year or two it seemed quite at a standstill. Then
the whole ground was trenched by hand, and the results were
marvellous. The trees were planted eight years ago, and now
they had heads of from 12 to 15 feet in diameter, and a few
days since they were literally one mass of flowers. The qucs
tion of packing was very important. The Normandy growers
sent over large quantities of Plums packed in small boxes,
holding from 6 to 12 lbs. The fruit came over in splendid
condition, and the consumer could buy a box and take it home
without any disturbance, and use the fruit as required. When
Plums were sent to market iu sieves, they got shaken con-
siderably on the journey ; then when the retailer got tllein up
home, he turned them out on to the counter, shovelled them
up into the scale, turned them out again into a paper-bag or
basket, and by the time they reach the customer's bouse they
had been so knocked about that unless used immediately they
would be spoiled. He was sometimes told that the cost of
boxes was prohibitive, but that could hardly be so, seeing
that the Great Eastern Railway Company supplied boxes at
from t\<l. to 5(7., the larger ones being big enough to hold t'.Olbs.
At any rate, t lis choicer kinds of fruit should be packed iu this
way. The renovation of old orchards was another point of
importance, but they need not always be destroyed ; he had
seen orchards which seemed going to decay by propel can
brought into a highly fruitful condition. He knew a gentle-
man who had an orchard consisting chiefly of Blenheim
Orange which were said to be quite worn out, but by opening
out a space between the rows, trenching, and supplying with
farmyard anil artificial manure, the trees took a new lease of
life, and were now vigorous and fruitful.

Mr. E. D. TiLii thanked Sir Owen Burne for his remarks on
Mr. Bunyard's reference to cider-making, and he remembered
that when Mr. Radeliffe-Cooke read a paper on cider before
the Society, the Chairman, Sir W. T. Thiselton-Dycr, was also
sympathetic on the same subject. He would like to state his
own experience. In 1895 there was an abnormal crop of Apples
in Kent, and he urged the Technical Education Committee of
the Kent County Council t > make experiments with a view to
instructing Kentish people as to cider-making. They declined,
ut as a glut crop is not too frequent, he urged two Scotchmen,
farmers at Swanley, to get an expert from Hereford, erect a
press, and as Apples were plentiful they made 5,000 gallons
that season. In a " glut " year liquid storage is the best way
of saving a crop and relieving a glutted market of fruit.
Something like 40,000 gallons have been made at Swanley
since that experiment, and it is commercially successful.
There is no difficulty in selling it. It contains a low per-
centage of alcohol, 2i and 3 per cent., and although cider from
Kent fruit is different in character from that of the West
country, it is not deficient in tine quality and flavour. As to
keeping properties, he had been lately drinking good cider,
made in 1S95-1S96 from local fruit. In the Weald of Kent they
have lost the true art of cider-making ; they put sugar in it,
which is a great mistake. The French were paying more and
more attention to the manufacture of cider. Mr. Radcliffe
Cooke had said he knew nothing for agriculturists which
offered such an unlimited and profitable field as cider-making.
Mr. Cooke's advocacy of cider, and specially in the interests
of his own county, Hereford, had led to his being called the
11 great De-cider-atum." He would like to say that Mr.
Bunyard had not referred to poultry keeping in orchards, but
he thought it was a valuable and profitable adjunct, and he
might mention that the production of poultry and eggs now
was equal in value to the value of our wheat crop, and still
admitted of immense extension.

Mr. P. Louis said the washing of fruit trees with poisonous
materials had been practised for the last 50 years, and it was
constantly done in France and elsewhere, as well as iu
England. He did not know of any recorded case iu which
any accident had arisen therefrom. In connection with
artificial manures, he was pleased to hear Mr. Berry's
remarks ; he had been advocating it in Kent for some years,
both because it was more elficient, and on account of the
saving in carriage. But these things were adjuncts, not
substitutes entirely for farmyard manure, and it was necessary
that the right material should be applied at the right time and
in the right way, otherwise it might be injurious. He lately
had an interesting example of that on some thin soil in South
Kent, just over the chalk. It had been dressed persistently
with superphosphate, with very bad results ; but when he saw
the character of the vegetation he recognised that the soil was

acid, and advised the use of basic phosphate. That was put
down, and the result was an entire change in the appearance
of the place.

Mr. Bunyard, in reply, said he strongly recommended that
all new orchards should be raised on arable land, except for
Cherries, lor which he could not advise that course. It was
true they did well under it, but if there came a severe frost—
anything below 24° below freezing— the trees would be com-
pletely spoiled ; and not only that, but where the ground was
very well manured, the Cherry-trees ran away altogether. He
was called in to advise at a place in Gloucestershire, where
they had manured the trees highly, and they made enormous
growth, 6 feet in a year, but when they got a hard frost, the
trees were completely spoiled. To farm a good Cherry
orchard, you must let it go on very slowly. With regard to
renovation, if you had good sorts, by all means go in for it,
but it was useless to take the trouble if the sort of fruit was
not good enough to pay for it. With regard to spraying, ho
had to be very careful what he said. If he advised people to-
do this, it might be done carelessly, and very grave results
might ensue. He knew of a case where a man washed his
Apple trees with London Purple, and some of it fell on 1 1 1 * -
Gooseberries, resulting in a vast amount of illness. It was B
good thing to use where people wen' .sufficiently careful. A
man once said to him, " I never tell people to do it, bat 1 do
it myself;" and that was sometimes his position.

The term " accumulated temperature indicates the aggregate
amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fabr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is exx>ressed in Day-degrees — a "Day-
degree " signifying 1* continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

Rainfall.

Brioht
Sun.

9

Id
w a,

§?«

oil

Accumulated.

— .

^ a>
J*

II

i- u
o o

©

3

wo.

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oa

CO

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3
*-*

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Its

4}

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o .

"a

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in '3

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~ c ^

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£S

a a

o 5

5 £ a

o

<

«

<

a

«

3

o

ffl

I- **
09

Day-

Day.

Day-

Day-

lOtha

deg.

deg.

deg.

dcg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

2 —

29

3

— 7

- 11

16 +

93

20-6

15

27

i

3 -

37

4

- 37

+ s

15 +

B9

147

23

38

2

2 +

6i

0

+ 8S

- 95

4 +

81

9-7

21

28

S

3 +

82

0

+ 128

- 190

S +

72

S-5

34

37

4

1 +

"-•

0

+ SS

- 145

4 +

73

lu-s

29

33

5

2 +

82

0

+ 147

- 180

4 +

04

96

31

39

6

2 -

41

0

- 2

— 50

IS +

01

21-7

28

20

1

U aver

02

0

+ 101

- 14-:

5 +

85

140

26

33

B

1 -

01

0

+ 125

- 120

0 +

81

18-1

34

37

9

2 -

45

0

+ 24

- 69

9 +

98

154

32

32

10

2 -

52

0

+ 97

- 52

13 +

83

18-5

37

30

*

1 +

81

0

+ 2SS - 07

7 +

76

12-2

41

43

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, Jtc, 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 May 20, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office :—

" The weather during this period was very unsettled and
rainy generally, especially in the west and north. Thunder,
storms were experienced in many parts of the Kingdom soon
after the commencement of the week, and, again in some
districts later on.

"The temperature was rather below the mean in Scotland,
Ireland, and the south-west of England, and just equal to the
normal in 'England, N.W.,' but in all the other EDglish
districts it was a little above it. The highest of the maxima
occurred on the 18th over England, and on somewhat irregular
dates in Ireland and Scotland ; they ranged from 72° in
'England, S.' (in London), and 71° in 'England, E ,' to 62°
over Ireland, and 60° over Scotland. The lowest of the
minima, which were registered on different days in the various
districts, ranged from 31° in ' Scotland, E.,' and 33° in ' Scot-

la d, W.' and over Ireland, to 43° in ' England, S.,' and to •
in the ' Channel Islands.'

"The rain/all exceeded the mean in all districts. The
aggregate fall was very heavy generally, varying from about
twice as much as the normal over northern, central, and
southern England, to about three times as much in most
western and northern districts and in ' England, E.,' and to
four times aB much in the west and east of Scotland.

"The bright sunshine was deficient in all parts of the
Kingdom. The percentage of the possible duration ranged
from 41° in the ' Channel Islands,' 37 in ' Ireland, S.,' and 34
in ' England, E. and S.W.,' to 21 in ' England, N.E.,' and 15 in
' Scotland, N. '

Markets.

CO VENT GARDEN, MA Y 25.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.1

Cut Flowers, &c— Average Wholesale Prices.

Anemones, dozen

bunches

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms

Asparagus "Fern,"

bunch

Azalea, white, 12

bunches

Azalea mollis, per

dozen bunches ...
Bouvardias, per bun.
Camellias, per doz.

blooms

Carnations, per doz.

blooms

Daffodils, per dozen

bunches

Eucharis, per dozen
Gardenias, per doz.
Hyacinths, Roman,

per doz. bunches
Jonquils, per dozen

bunches

Lilium longiflorum,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

dozen bunches ...

s. d. s. d.

1 6 —

2 0-40

2 0-30

3 0-40

6 0-90
0 4-06

16-20

16-30

2(>-40
2 0-30
10-30

4 0-60
10-20
4 0-60
6 0-10 0

Marguerites, p. doz.

bunches

Maidenhair Fern,

per doz. bunches
Mignonette, per

dozen bunches ...
Narcissus, White,

dozen bunches ...
Orchids, per dozen

blooms

IVonies, doz. bun.
Pelargoniums, doz.

bunches

— scarlet, doz.bun.
Roses (indoor), per

dozen

— Pink, per dozen

— Tea, white, per
dozen

— Perle, per doz.

— Safrano, p. doz.
8milax, per bunch
Stock, doz. bunches
Sweet Peas, dozen

bunches

Tuberoses, 12 blms.
Tulips, per dozen...

s. d. s. d.

3 0-40

6 0-90

2 0-30

16-20

6 0-12 0
0 0-12 0

4 0-60
6 0-80

16-20

4 0-60

2 0-30
10-20
16-20

3 0-50
2 0-80

6 0-80
0 8-10
0 6-13

Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Prices.

d. s. d. ; s. d. a. d.

0-7 0 Fuchsias, per dozen 6 0-10 0
0-36 0 Hydrangeas, p. doz. 6 0-10 n

— paniculate, doz. 18 0-24 0
Lycopodiums, doz. 3 0-40
Marguerite Daisy,

per dozen ... 6 0-80

6 0-18 0 Mignonette, p. dc z. 4 0-80

Palms, various, ea. 1 0-15 0

— specimens, ea. 21 0-63 0
Pelargoniums, var., 6 0 10 0

— Zonals, per doz 6 0-80
Roses, per dozen ... 6 0-90

10-50, Spiraeas, per dozen 40-60

Adiantums, p. doz.
Aspidistras, p. doz.

— specimen, each
Bouvardias, p. doz.

i Ealceolaxia, p. di z.

Kuonymus, various,

per dozen
Fefns, in variety,
per dozen ...

— small, per 100 .
Ficus elastica, each
Foliage plants, var.,

each

0-10 0
0-42 0
0-9 0

0-12 0 |
0- 6 0 '
0-5 0

Fruit.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Apples, Tasmanian
and Victorian,
R i b s t o n s,
Pearmains,
New York
Pippin, Stur-
mer, Prince
Bismarck, &c,
per case

— Nova Scotian,

Nonpareils, p.

barrel
Apricots, box 15 x

20 x 24
Bananas, per bunch
Cherries, sieve

— peck

— box

Figs, per dozen ..
Gooseberries, sieve

— peek

Grapes, Belgian A.,

per lb., new ...

s. d. s. d.

9 0-15 0

18 0-23 0

Grapes, English,
Hambros, p. lb.

— Channel Islands
Hambros, p. lb.

— Muscats p. lb.
Lemons, per case...
Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 lb. ...
Melons, each
Oranges, Valencia,
420

— Muxcia, cases of

150 or 200 ...

— Blood, 150 ...
Peaches, per dozen

16-23

6 0-10 0

S 0-10 o Pears, 'Australian

5 0-5

1 0- 1

2 0-6
S 0-10
50 -

13-20

6 cases

6 Pines, St. Michaels,

0 | each

0 Strawberries, p. lb.
— Seconds

French, in bas-
kets, about 4 lb.

8. d. s. d.
16-26

2 0 —

4 0-50
9 0-30 0

13-14
13-26

S 0- 8 6
9 6 —
0 0-30 0

3 6-60
2 6-40
10-16

Potatos.
Bruce, Saxon, and Main Crop, 80s. to 100s. ; Up-to-Date,
95s. to 105s. ; Dunbar Main Crop, 100s. to 110s. John Bath,
32 and 34, IVeUUu/ton Street, Covent Garden.

Remarks.— In last report Peaches should have read 6s. to
24s. per doz. (not 42s.). Radishes and Spinach are now
coming fast, and both are very much down in price. Pines
are rather short supply, and nothing very fine. Apricots vary
in price, the larger the fruit the higher the price. The
foreign Cherries to-day were very good. Asparagus is
plentiful, and in great variety, English and foreign, and prices
are low.

348

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 27, 1899.

Vegetables.

Artichokes, Globe,
per doz.

— Jerusalem, per
sieve

Asparagus, Giant,
per bundle ...
Toulouse

— Sprue

— Eng., natural,
per bundle ...

— Various others
Beans, Dwfs., Chan-
nel Islands, lb.

English, lb.

Longpods, in

flats

Beetroots, per doz.

— bushel

Broccoli, dozen ...

— crates

Cabbage, tally

— per bushel

— dozen

Carrots, new French,

per bunch

— washed, in bags

— Surrey.bunches,

doz

Celery, New, per

bundle - ...
.Cress, doz. punnets
Cucumbers, per doz.
Endive, French, per

dozen

Garlic, per lb.
Horseradish, New

English, bundle

— — loose per
doz., fine

— Foreign, per
bundle...

Leeks, per dozen

bunches
Lettuce, Cos, dozen

— Cabbage, dozen

3 6
1 6

4 0
1 3-
0 ti

1 0-
0 9-

1 6

—Average "Wholesale Prices,

s. d. s. d. i

Mint, natural, per

dozen bunches,

according to

size of bunches 2 0-40

Mushrooms, house,

per lb

Onions, Egyptian,
cwt. bag ...

— New, bunches.

— picklers, sieve
Parsley, doz. bun.

— sieve

Peas, Channel Is-
lands, Frame
Telephone, lb.

— French flats ...
Potatos, Bruce, Sax-

on, Up-to-Date,
&c, per ton ...fi

— New Jersey Kid-
neys, per cwt. 20 0-22 0

— — Teneriffe,
per cwt.

— Lisbon, per box
Radishes, Round,

breakfast, per

dozen bunches 0 4-0

— Long, per doz.
bunches

Rhubarb Datural,
per dozen

Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen

Spinach, English,
per bushel ...

Tomato s, new

English, per lb. 0 6- 0 S

— Channel Islands,
p. lb

— Canary, boxes..
Turnips,

French,
bunch ...
Watercress, p.
bunches

0 9-0 10
10 —

4 6 —
0 6-09

2 0 —
10-26
6 0-14 0

3 6-40
16 —
0 9-10

0 6-08
6 6 —

30 -

1 C —

1 6

2 0-

3 0

16-19
0 3 — 1

2 0 2 6,

s. d. s. d.

0 6-09

4 6-56

2 6-30

3 0 —
2 0- 2 6
16 —

0 10-1 0
4 0-70

0-110 0

14 0-17 0
5 0-56

0 4-06
16-26

13 —
10-16

I

1 6
10-12

10-10
3 6- 4 6 I
13-16,

New
per

doz.

0 4-
5 0

0 6

0 4-08

0 4-06

SEEDS.

London : Mat/ 24.— Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, Seed Mer-
chants, of Great Maze Pond, Borough, London, S.E., describe
to-day's market as quite of a holiday character, with scarcely
any business passing. Quotations all round are consequently
without any alteration. Small orders still drop in for Tares
Rye continues scarce. Cauary-seed, with more doing, tends
upwards in value. Hemp-seed keeps very firm. Mustard and
Rape are steady. Peas and Haricots command full rates.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the
week ending May 20, and for the corresponding period of
189S, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return :—

Description.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

s. d.

48 1

s. d.

25 3

s. d.

- 22 10

Barley

2(i 0

23 11

- 2 1

Oats

21 3

17 10

- 8 6

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

Glasgow : May 24.— The following are the averages of the
prices recorded since our last report :— Apples, Canadian
Spies, 14s. to 18s. per barrel ; Western States' Russets,
18s. to 20s. do. ; Oranges, 6rf. to Is. per dozen ; Grapes,
home, 2s. to 4s. 6(2. per lb. ; Tomatos, Guernsey, id. to id.
per lb. ; do., Scotch, fkl. to id. do. ; Cabbages, Spring, Sd. to
Is. per dozen ; Broccoli, Edinburgh and Irish, 2s. to 2s. 6d
per dozen ; Herbs, assorted, Id. to 2d. per bunch ; Leeks, Is.
to 3s. per dozen bunches ; Mint, green, 6d. per bunch ;
Onions, 4s. uU to 5s. per cwt. ; Parsley, Is. 6d. to 2s.
per stone ; Carrots, round, new, Is. per bunch, and 4s. 0d.
to 7s. per cwt. (old) ; Cucumbers, id. to 5d. each ; Lettuces,
round, Is. 3d. to Is. Od. per dozen ; Horseradish, Is. Od. to
2s. per bundle ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. Sd. per lb. ; Beetroots,
6d. to 7d. per dozen ; Mustard and Cress, 3d. per punnet ;
Spinach, 2s. to 4s. per stone ; Turnips, French new, Is. to
Is. 3d. per bunch ; Swedes, 2s. to 2s. 6d. per bag ; Greens,
fis. to 0s. per 10 dozen.

Liverpool: May 24. — Wholesale Vegetable Market.—
Potatos, per cwt., Main Crop, 3s. 9d. to 4s. 0d. ; Bruce,
2s. lOd. to 3s. ed. ; Champion, 2s. 9d. to 3s. 3d. ; Turnips,
Swedes, 3s. 6d. do. ; Carrots, 5s. Od. to 6s. Od. do. ; Parsley, (id.
to 8d. per dozen bunches; Onions, foreign, 4s. to 5s.
per cwt.; Cucumbers, Is. 3d. to 3s. per dozen; Broc-
coli, 10i(. to 2s. per dozen ; Cut Cabbages, 6d. to lOd. do.
St. John's. — Potatos, Is. to Is. 2d. perpeck ; do., new, 2d. to id.
per lb. ; Grapes, home, 2s. Od. to 4s. do. ; Pines, English,
4«. to 6s. each ; Strawberries, 4s. per lb. ; Gooseberries. 6d. per
quart ; Peas, 3d. per lb. ; Cherries, 6d. to Is. do. ; Cob Nuts,
8d. do. ; Apricots, Is. per dozen ; Asparagus, 2s. to 4s. per 100 ;
do., bundle, Is. Od. to 3s. ; Cucumbers, 3d. to 4d. each ; Mush-
rooms, Is. 3d. per pound and basket. Birkenhead.— Pota-
tos, Is. to Is. 2d. per peck ; do., new, 3d. to 4d. per lb. ;
Peas, 5d. to 8d. do. ; Asparagus, 2s. to 4s. per 100 ; Cucum-

bers, 2d. to 4d. each; Strawberries, Sd. to 2s. per lb. ;
Cherries, 6<1 to Sd. do. ; Apricots, Is. per dozen ; Goose-
berries, 6d. per lb. ; Grapes, home, 3s. 6d. to 4s. 6d. do. ;
Mushrooms, Is. to Is. 6d. do.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

E. A. White. Ltd., Paddock Wood, Kent— " Abol" Insecti-
cides and Syringes.

De Graak Brothers Ltd., Leiden, Holland— Bulbs and
Plants.

L. Bikhmer & Co., 5 and 28, Bluff, Yokohama— Lilies and
other Bulbs, Plants, Conifers, Ac.

Tilley Brothers, Brighton— Bedding-plants, &c.

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. A. Bakeii, late Foreman at Highfield Gardens, Shoreham,

Kent, as Gardener to H. H. Hett, Esq., Hapstead House,

Ardingly, Sussex.
Mr. T. Randall, lor the last nine years Head Gardener at

Holme Lacy, Herefordshire, as Huad Gardener to A.

Boughtpn Knight, Esq., Downton Castle, near Ludlow.

ttifwfm

,Jbor

lorncjfoondenfo

Address : A Twenty Yearn' Reader vf the Har-
deners' Chronicle. We think that the person
whose address you require is to be found at Green
Lanes, Stoke Newington, London, N. — W. II- K.
The address asked for is Mr. B. Wynne, 1, Danes
Inn, Strand, London, W.C.

Adhesive Shading : Veritas. The horticultural
sundriesmen keep several such preparations of
about equal goodness.

Cucumber Plants Failing : S. B. The roots are
infested with eel-worms against which nothing
cau be done to rid to plants of them. The worms
are introduced with the soil, which, owing to not
having been stacked for a year or two, and kept
clear of herbage, swarms with them. Clear out
the soil and plants, and start anew. Bake tho
soil before using it.

Cucumbers Yellow, and Decaying at the Ends
of the Fruits: A. C. In the absence of
information in regard to treatment, we should
attribute the decay to lack of bottom heat.
There are no signs of eel-worms on the roots
sent.

Double Mushroom : W. S. A common occurrence.

Evergreens for Planting on a Steep, Drv,
Sandy Bank : E. P. You might make your
choice of any of the following : — Furze, double or
single-flowered ; Common Broom, Tamarisk,
Mahonia aquifolia, Common Juniper, also Juni-
perus Sabina and J. tamariscifolia ; Abies Clan-
brassiliensis, Scots and Black Austrian Pine,
Pinus Pinea, Butchers' Broom, Olearia Haasti.
At the bottom of the bank, the Periwinkles,
Ivies, and Euouymus would succeed.

Grapes Diseased: St. Clair. The berries are
infected 1 >y ( ■ keosporium keticolor — the "Spot"
fungus. Cut off and burn every affected berry,
and then apply sulphur by various methods, or
use sulphide of potassium, half an ounce in a
gallon of water. The bunches would have to be
syringed with clear water before eating them.

Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums : C. P. <£■ Co. The
leaves were pierced by aphis, whilst very young,
which has given them a crippled appearance. No
fungus.

Lily Flower Buds: A. C. The yellowing is due
to a cheek, but how caused we are unable to say.

Melon and Cucumber Boots: K. M. W. and
W. G. S. The roots are badly attacked with
eel-worm. Turn out the soil and get fresh loam,
taking the precaution to bake it before using.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to he so good as to consult
the following number. — /. T. L. 1, Dendrobium
Bensonia- ; 2, Dendrobium Parish! — II. K. A
very fine variety of Odontoglossum triumphans,
of that uncommon type having a white ground
colour to the petals and lip. — /. A'., Melton. 1,
Dendrobium aggregatum ; 2, D. Dalhousieanum ;
3, D. chrysotoxum ; 4, Saccolabium ampullaceum ;
5, Clematis ; 6, Sprekelia formosissima ; 7,
Da-vallia dissecta Mariesii ; 8, D. Mooreaua ; 9,
Adiantum trapeziforme ; 10, A. formosum ; 11,

Gymnogramma ochracea ; 12, Selaginella viti-
culosa. Another time send six only. A contribu-
tion to the Gardeners' Orphan Fund would be wel-
come.—A'. 8. J. T. Miltonia flavescens, formerly
called Cyrtochilum stellatum. — /. M. 1, Notho-
chlaana trichomanoides ; 2, Pellea (Platyloma)
flexuosa ; 3, Pteris hastata ; 4, Davallia tenui-
folia stricta ; 5, Polystichum angulare ; 6, Ixia
crateroides. — C. G. 1, Lonicera tatarica ; 2,
Diervilla florida syn. Weigela rosea. — /. T. L.
Savin, Juniperus Sabina var. — M. Neath. 1, Den-
drobium Hildebrandi ; 2, D. Devonianum ; 3,
D. chrysotoxum. — G. E. S. Ceanothus rigidus.
— F.C. Claytonia perfoliata. — Subscriber (Brown).
Primus Padus, the Bird Cherry.

Odontoglossum cirrosum : M. Neath. The
nower-spikes when produced in the winter, and
under conditions not favourable to the quick
development of the flowers, often go in the
manner shown in the specimen sent. The plants
are not at fault. Probably, a rather cooler
temperature would be beneficial.

Orchid Collector : D. L. The course most
likely to be attended with success would be to
offer your services, together with testimonials as
to knowledge and ability, &c, to some Orchid-
importing firm in this couutry or in Belgium.
This might be done by means of advertisement
or letter.

Spanish Iris and Jonquils not Flowering :
Dun, Leamington. Assuming that the bulbs
in each case are healthy, their failure to bloom
is probably due to immature growth, untimely
loss of foliage, enormous reproduction, or to
deep planting. Both require a well - drained
soil, of good depth, and an open, sunny situa-
tion. We would advise the lifting of tho bulbs as
soon as, in the case of the .Tonquills the foliage
turns brown, and the Iris in the middle of the
month of August. They may have grown so
rapidly, and formed such large masses of bulbs,
that the soil around them is practically ex-
hausted, and growth is in consequence much
weakened. Having prepared new stations for
them, replant the stronger bulbs at 3 to 4 inches
apart and 3 inches deep, in colonies of thirty to
fifty, or in beds, the ground being made quite
firm both before and after planting. The weaker
bulbs may be put in nursery liues to grow strong
before planting them in the beds or borders.

Strawberry-flowers Failing to Set : J. W.
You will do well to acquire a fresh stock of
plants. Strawberries occasionally evidence a
tendency to revert to a dioecious condition, and
fertilisation is then much less easy or certain
than in the case of plants bearing hermaphrodite
flowers.

Tomatos : G. T. P. The fruits are attacked by a
fungus (Cladosporium locopersici). Preventive,
methods such as syringings with sulphide of
potassium or Bordeaux Mixture, when adopted
early in the season are generally productive of
good, but if your plants are now bearing a crop,
all you cau do will be to remove, at once, every
fruit that shows evidence of disease.

Vine : D. B. The Vine leaves sent are affected
with the malady oalled "Browning," Brunisure
of the French. There is no known cure, and only
timely prevention is of any use, which is found iu
occasionally syringing the leaves with the Bor-
deaux Mixture (see answer to correspondent last
week), or by using sulphide of potassium, at tho
rate of half an ounce in a gallon of water.

Communications Received. — M. G. G.— A. P. -W. T.— F. 13.
— C T. D.-It. D.— M. M., Geneva— A. V.— B. W.-F. W. S.
— \V. B.— G. B.— H. V.— F. J. H.-G. J. I.-F. B., Jersey—
N E. B.— J. H. & Son, Edinburgh— W. H. F., Exeter.—

F. S. & Co.— H. E.— Kelway & Son— D. T. F.— A. D.—
A. P.— A. G F.— C. T. D.— E. C— G. M.— R. P. B.— S. A.
-F. R. — E. Benary.— A. S. W.— B. K.— R. C, York—

G. S.— H. S.— Mallon.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
G. C. D.-C. T. D.— W. B. H., Cork -A. B.

Important to Advertisers. — The PuMfelw has

the satisfaction of armov/ncing that the circulation of the
" Gardeners' Chronicle " Juts, since tlte reduction in Hie
price of tlte paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the "Chronicle' dreviates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners'
and Garden-lovers at lioine, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and that it is
preserved fir reference in all the principal Libra s.

June 3, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

349

THE

No. 649.— SATURDAY, JUNE 3, 1899.

PREPARING FOR THE SHOW.

THE work entailed in preparing for a great
show is very considerable, a great many
subjects having to be selected for growing on
as much as a year previous to the exhibition.
Having selected the most promising plants, the
work and worry begin, and there must be no
relaxation of care and watchfulness until the
plants are finally arranged in the show tents.

Preparing. — The primary work is to get the
flowering plants well set with bills, and to work-
up such hardy plants as Deutzias, Philadelphia,
Azaleas, and other subjects of a like nature. To
have them in flower to a day is a work requiring
great care and judgment, and quite 20 per cent,
of those selected to be grown have to be dis-
carded ; some being too early, others too late, so
much depending on the season and the amount
of sunshine the plants receive. These subjects
have to be moved from one house to another,
either to retard them if too forward, or to push
them on should they require it. Again, some
kinds of plants come into bloom much more
rapidly than others, and consequently several
glass-houses with a variety of temperatures are
necessary to get all in perfection at the same
time.

To grow and show a collection of Cacti is a
feat of skill in itself, as most horticulturists
know. To have a large number of plants in
bloom on a certain date, means a great amount
of skilful manipulation ; if the flowers open too
soon or if they are a day too late, a year's labour
in many cases is lost. The same may be said of
other flowering subjects, such as Gloxinias,
Lilies, and many others.

Packing. —The work of preparing and growing
the plants is but one item of the expense involved
in exhibiting plants, for these would be of no use
if great care were not exercised in packing them
so as to travel safely to the show. The packing
in itself is a special business, for this must not
only be done with expedition, but great care
must also be exercised. Choice Orchids re-
quire, in some instances, that each flower must
be carefully tied up in paper and protected with
cotton-wool and others with long sprays must
have supports formed of cotton-wool and light
sticks, and the whole plant afterwards enveloped
in paper so that no particle of dust may settle
upon the flower to mar its pristine beauty.
The same remarks apply to other flowers that
are easily bruised. Caladiums and other fine
foliaged plants with tender leaves require quite
as much, if not more, care and labour in pack-
ing, as each leaf must be supported and carefully
protected from injury whilst in transit, as the
least bruise or puncture of the leaves spoils the
beauty of the plant.

Hardy plants that have been forced into
flower, and those grown in the open, are placed
in baskets, which look best when covered with
green baize ; and each individual plant must be
carefully tied, to prevent the flowers rubbing
each other, and some plants that have delicate

flowers also require wrapping in paper. After
each plant has been carefully tied and papered,
they are then packed in covered vans with light
springs, specially constructed for the purpose,
some of which are heated when the plants have
to travel far and the weather is cold.

Setting-up. — The work of seleotion, growing,
and packing being completed, there is still a lot of
hard work to do ; each plant has to be unloaded,
and very often carried a long distance to the
place allotted for it in the exhibition. The
plants have to be untied, and then placed in their
various groups, which occupies a considerable
amount of time, and requires a great amount of
patience ; for it often happens that when an
exhibitor has set up his group it does not please
him, and certain plants have to change places —
some have to be raised, and others lowered, and
so on, until the appearance of the whole is
satisfactory.

The setting up of the plants being finished,
there is still more work to do, for the packing
material must be gathered up and stowed away
out of sight, and all the litter made in unpack-
ing must be cleaned up before the time for
judging the exhibits arrives.

Removal. — We scarcely need to remind the
reader that all the plants brought to a show
ought to be repacked with as much care for
their removal as was bestowed on them when
being prepared for exhibition.

To bring together the innumerable subjects
to form so grand a display as that seen in the
Temple Gardens annually, gives employment to
quite an army of workers, not only during the
time of tho show, but also year in and year out.
The amount of thought and skill employed Is
incalculable, and tho amount of money spent
annually, wo are persuaded, would amount to
a goodly fortune.

[Our supplementary illustration, showing
the plants in their travelling costume, was
taken in Messrs. Veitch's Nursery at Combe
Wood. En.]

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

CCELOGYNE PANDURATA.
Although upwards of fifty years have elapsed
since this species was first flowered iu this country,
it ia still rarely seen, and this is tho more singular
because it is one of the most striking of Gilogynes.
Its habit is of a rambling nature, and for this
reason the plant is best grown on a raft. The
colour of the sepals and petals is bright green, and
tho lip, as indicated by its specific name, resembles
in form a violin, and is furnished with black ridges
and dots. It is a native of Sarawak in Borneo, and
revels under cultivation iu a hot moist atmosphere.
There is a plant here at the present time bearing a
spike with twelve flowers. ./. '/., Botanic Gardens,
IAvt rpool.

RESTREPIA TEICHOGLOSSA, Lilimann.
A plant of this graceful species, of small growth,
is flowering in Sir Trevor Lawrence's collection
at Burford, and in the Royal Botanic Gardens,
Glasneviu, Dublin. Mr. Moore, the director of
the Dublin garden, kindly sends a specimen for our
inspection. The plant iu its growth and in its
flowers suggests a miniature, tufted, profuse-
flowering form of R. antennifera, but an examina-
tion showed it to be distiuct from that species and
from all others previously recorded. The upper sepal
is lanceolate, and prolonged into a tail, bearing an
oblong yellow-coloured knob at the end, and the
other portion is white with purple-coloured mark-
ings. The broader connate lower sepals are yel-
lowish-white, densely spotted with crimson- purple.
The petals resemble the upper sepal in form and
colour, but are smaller, and the siDgular-looking

lip, which is pressed down in the lower sepals, is
of a yellow tint, spotted with crimson papilh-e, and
bearing on each side at the base a stout, short,
white, hair-like process.

Phaius x CoOKSONIjE.
Some flowers of this pretty variety, sent by Mr.
Wm. Murray, gr. to Norman C. Cookson, Esq.
Oakwood, Wylam-on-Tyne, show that this cross
between P. grandifolius and P. Hnmbloti (which
took the Royal Horticultural Society's 1st prize for
the best hybrid Orchid flowering in 1895) is worthy
to be placed with the best of them. The sepals
and petals are broad, and of a nankeen-yellow tint,
the lips being coppery-yellow, changing to rose-
colour at the tips, and the reverse is also rose-
coloured. The nicely-rounded lip is of a bright
yellow tint at the base with red stripes, the hand-
some front lobe being of a bright deep rose. These
hybrid Phaius are very easy to cultivate, and very
useful for decorating the dwelling-house ; a stay
in which does them more good than harm, as is
Mr. Murray's opinion. Other varieties of Phaius,
with flowers larger than P. x CookBonire, have
been raised at Oakwood.

Odontoglossum x crispo-Halli.
Some flowers of this beautiful variety, itself a
cross between 0. Halli leucoglossum $ and the
finely-blotched 0. crispum Cooksoni, and raised by
N. C. Cookson, Esq., Wylam, and now sent by
him, show improvement upon those first exhibited
at the Royal Horticultural Society, November 24,
1896, beautiful though those were which obtained
a First-class Certificate. As yet, at least, the
production of varieties of Odontoglossum has not
been an easy matter, and Mr. Cookson is justly
proud of his achievement in this instance. The
flowers may be said to have the size and shape of a
good 0. Halli, but with broader sepals and petals.
The crest resembles that of 0. Halli, but the pro-
cesses are less prominent. The marking of the nearly
white ground is rather more like that of 0. crispum
Cooksoni, except that some of the blotches are
larger. The sepals and petals are white, with a
faint yellow tinge, two-thirds of the surface of the
sepals being occupied by three or four red-brown
blotches ; and the petals, to the extent of half their
area, are covered by several smaller blotches of the
same hue. The fringed lip is white, and the crest
yellow and red, with one large red-brown blotch iu
the middle, and an even array of small ones, of the
same tint up each side. The column is white on
the upper side ; the toothed wings and under
surface are of a red tint. The spotting shows
through at the back of the flower, rendering it
striking in every aspect.

NATURAL GARDENING.

An interesting ami instructive address on the above
subject was given by Dr. Lionel Beale, P.B.S., in connection
with the Weybridge Gardeners' Mutual Improvement Society,
on the 10th tilt. Dr. Beale, in his opening remarks, dwelt at
some length on the pleasure which may be derived from this
kind of gardening, by the judicious planting of our more
common and hardy flowers, and pointed out how, with taste
and forethought, a garden of this kind might be made an
object ol nit-rest in some feature or other nearly the whole
year through. Gardening, like many other things, he
remarked, could never be learnt from books alone ; and satis-
factory results were only attainable by devotion and study of
the different nature-, positions, and requirements of the
various kinds of plants which might be employed in gardens,
and even those found on commons or in woods.

Such plants were, for the most part, inexpensive— a primary
consideration to those who were unable to devote a large sum
of money or much time to the management of their gardens,
and where a love of our more common flowers was cherished,
as much enjoyment might be derived from them as from the
more costly exotics of our glasshouses.

In defence of the soil of "Weybridge and neighbouring
districts much might be said ; and although it was regarded
as being peihaps the poorest in England, there were, never-
theless, multitudes of beautiful plants which would thrive
and adapt themselves to their surroundings. It must be
admitted, that its light sandy, porous nature, and the influ-
ence of the gravelly subsoil, were the great difficulties

350

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 3, 1S99.

we had to contend with ; but by taking every advantage of
any depression, and making others near the plants, and by
carefully conducting all superfluous water, by means of chan-
nels or pipes, to those spots, even moisture-loving plants
might ba grown, whilst the more elevated parts and banks
might be reserved for those which would bear drier situations.

Circumstances often produced what were termed " fad-
dists ; " but in defence of successful fads, he related his
numerous attempts and failures experienced in the cultivation
of vegetables and fruit, but which had to be given up in favour
of shrubs, herbaceous plants, and bulbs.

With a touch of that love of nature with which the whole
address was replete, lie strongly advocated the culture of
various kinds of fruits for the benefit of the birds, which,
he added, should be cared for and cherished as much as the
flowers of a garden.

Next came a list of plants, which ho had found would adapt
themselves readily, and thrive remarkably in this poor soil
with but very little attention. Amongst a number of things
■which he had brought was a fine healthy frond of ChamFerops
excelsa, nearly 4 feet across, and grown out of doors for twelve
years; branches of Camellias in flower; Skimmiajaponica, with
flowers and berries, the luxuriant growth of all denoting their
perfect development, growth, and health. Most of the Japa-
nese Maples thrive, and in proof of this he had brought
several varieties, and also a branch of Sciadopitys verticillata
(Japanese Umbrella Pine), and some rooted rhizomes of
Bamboos, to illustrate the facility with which they might
be propagated and grown in dry sandy soils. All the British
Ferns would thrive on shady sides of banks, and most of the
N. American species, especially Polystichuni acrosticoides,
Adiantum pedatum, Cmuclea sensibilis, Struthiopteris ger-
manica and virginica. Osmundas, and many others, were as
much at home as in more favourable moist places prepared
especially for them. For covering the lower parts of the
trunks of the very tall Pine-trees there were numerous
climbers, as Roses, Clematises, Ivies, Kerria japonica, and
even Rhododendrons might be trained up them.

In conclusion, he would impress upon all who wished to
improve their gardens that there was not a single spot which
might nut be made attractive and of interest, however bad
might be the soil, or unfavourable the aspect, if the right
choice of plants be made.

caster Roses, huge beds of Rhododendrons, in which
brought into a warm, ligbt, and airy pit, and placed
on inverted flower-pots. Careful watering during
winter is essential, or the leaves will be liable to
damp off. Towards the end of January the flower-
stems will be seeu, and the plants should be then
transferred to the warm greenhouse.

Plant Notes.

PRIMULA FLORIBUNDA and P. VERTI-
CILLATA.

These are two most useful Primulas for winter
itud spring floweriug in the greenhouse. Although
they are not so large and showy as varieties of P.
sinensis, they deserve to be much more widely
cultivated than at present. P. floribunda is a
Himalayan species, and bears rather small yellow
llowers, arranged in whorls, on scapes 6 or 8 inches
high. Seeds should be sown early in March, in
pans filled with light soil, and placed in a warm
pit. As soon as the seedlings are sufficiently large
to be handled, remove them into 3 inch pots,
putting three plants in each.

A few weeks later the plants may be placed in a
cool frame, to remain there during the summer
months. Give to each plant plenty of room, keep
them close to the glass, and ventilate as freely as
circumstances permit. A light shading will be
necessary during the hottest part of the day. The
final potting into 5-iuch pots should be done when
the piants have made a moderate number of roots,
and without disturbing the three plants, which
should be potted-up together. When they have
become well established, the plants will need fre-
quent root waterings, and all flower -buds that
show during the summer must be removed. At
the end of October, place the plants in the green-
house, and they will then soon commence to bloom,
and remain bright for a long time.

P. verticillata, a native of Abyssinia, is an old
plant, producing light yellow (lowers, on scapes, in
two or three bracteate whorls. The leaves are
covered with a white, mealy powder, and enhance
the beauty of the plant. P. verticillata may be
grown in the same way as P. floribunda, so far as
the summer treatment is concerned. It is, how-
ever, a more delicate plant, and it is impoitant to
obtain sturdy plants, that are likely to pass well
through the winter. In October they should be

ILSINGTON HOUSE, DORCHESTER.

The mention of the name of Col. W. E. Brymer
may remind some of my readers of a Dendrobium
and a Cattleya that have been named in honour of
the proprietor of Ilsington House, for both plants
are well known and valuable. The mansion is
situated in a beautiful park, with great stretches
of lawn and meadows, interspersed with large
trees, among them being some Limes and Beeches
that are specially noteworthy. Some very tine
Yews also stand out as single specimens, or are
associated in clumps ; and beds or borders cf choice
Rhododendrons make a picture of singular charm
and beauty. The flower-garden is of good size, and
the beds will soon be tilled with various and showy
plants, full of bright foliage and flowers.

Adjoining the mansion is a large conservatory,
the roof of which is covered with Tacsonia Van
Volzemii, whose pendent growths, and flowers of
intense purplish-crimson, are thickly studded over
the whole of the space. Planted out are large
specimens of Dicksouia antarctica, with tine heads
of spreading fronds, and tall stems, 10 to 12 feet
high ; with these are a number of large and hand-
some Camellias. On the front stages, amongst
other plants, are numerous Cannas of the best
varieties, including Italia and Austria.

Passing the gardener's house, we enter the long
range of fruit-houses, and are much interested in the
splendid appearance of the Peach-trees. In the
late Peach-house the trees, instead of being planted
at the front and trained on a trellis of the usual
style, are planted across the house, some ten or a
dozen of them, and fastened to wires that are fixed
across the house right up to the roof, omitting, of
course, the space for the pathway. These trees
and wires are about 4 feet apart, and can easily be
reached for tying, disbudding, or gathering. The
method has proved satisfactory to Mr. Powell, the
able gardener here, who describes the results as
being very good. I have not found this method
answer well in the case of early Peaches.

Passing into the late vinery, it was pleasing to
notice the health and vigour of the growths. The
Muscat Vines in another house were planted seven
years ago, and are now in capital condition, the
caues very strong, and the leaves all that could be
desired. Another large vinery was planted twenty
years ago, and a plant of Buckland Sweetwater,
with three strong canes, always bears a very heavy
crop of fruit. In one Peach-house the front trellis
is used for Plum-trees. This range, facing due
south, must be about 200 feet long.

The Okchids.
One of the features of this garden consists in the
exceptional specimens of Dendrobium Falconeri,
and Thuuias Marshalli, Bensoni, and Brymeriana.
Of the former, a number of plants are growing on
Fern stems inserted in pots, and made firm and
secure by crocks, &o. The old growths are wired
round the Fern stem, and new roots have entered
freely, then from these old bulbs new shoots
have pushed out in all directions, so that these
plants, of which there were many, were really
little cones or pyramids. The bulbs of the Thunias
become as thick as one's thumb, and not more
than 18 inches high. T. lirymerianax was the
result of a cross between T. Marshalli and
T. Bensoniie. The condition of the plants show
plainly that the treatment they require is a
medium heat and moisture, with plenty of light
at all times, for in the early months of the
year growth commences, bulbs are formed, and
flowers expand in a period of four mouths or less.
During the other eight mouths the bulbs are ripeu-

ing and remain dormant until the spring. The
practice is too common of keeping Thunias growiDg
in the shade for too long a time, with a good share
of heat, hoping to secure fine bulbs and blooms,
but by such a method lengthened bulbs are pro-
duced that seldom flower. If in August there is
no sign of flowers, it would be better to pinch off
the top of the growths and stand the plants in a
dry and cooler place. The bulbs would then
thicken and harden, and plump eyes would be
formed for the coming spring.

There are several houses devoted to the culture
of Orchids, and many choice plants are to be found
growing in them. In one house I noticed about a
dozen and a half of good plants of Vanda teres,
many of them 3 feet in height. These were at ono
end of the house, where but little shade is given.
The plants were fastened to rods of Elderwood,
with the bark still on them. To this soft bark the
roots cling, and the plants grow with rapidity and
vigour. In the same house are a number of plants
of Cattleya gigas hanging from the roof. For many
years these have made good growths, the bulbs
being very plump. Calanthes in pits are making
a good growth. In a house chiefly devoted
to the La?lias and Cattleyas, were many more
plants of C. gigas, C. crispa, good varieties of C.
Gaskelliana, C. Bowringiana(very strong), and Epi-
dendrum prismatocarpum. The rare Cattleya Bry-
meriana is much like a short-bulbed Lalia elegans ;
its flowers are of medium size, and the sepals and
petals are of a pale rosy purple. The lip, which
has a narrow, closely-folded tubular base, nearly
2 inches long, is yellowish below, and pale lilac,
with the front part veined purple, the throat being
a clear yellow, and the lower lobe rich magenta-
purple. Mr. Powell takes the greatest interest iu
hybridising and raising of seedlings. The origiua
plant of Dendrobium Brymerianum is now a plant
of largo size, and a specimen to be remembered.

There are numerous plant-houses in which flower-
ing and foliage plants are raised and cultivated in
quantity, and pits for the growth of Melons,
Cucumbers, and Tomatos.

The kitchen garden is planted with fruit-trees
iu every convenient spot, and every outbuilding
supports either Pear or Plum-trees. An avenue of
Apple-trees is just now a very interesting sight, as
the overhanging blossom is very abundant. W. S.

A RUN THROUGH A TULIP-FIELD.

The Daffodils are gone by this first week in
May, after we had seeu them in flower at Ard
Cairn since January. The cycle of seasons how
they skip round ! The May Tulips were a blazo
of colour. What are called French Tulips, grown
in Holland by the million, must not be con-
founded with the old - fashioned, grandmother
border - flowers of 200 years ago. These late-
flowering, beautiful varieties, that were all the
rage before Calceolarias, Lobelias, Golden Feather,
Black Beetroot, led to their consignment to the
rulibish-heap some thirty years ago. Most of the
lovely colours here mentioned were known to exist
in my grandfather's nurseries near Mallow about
1830, and it is assumed the old pioneer nur-
seryman must have brought them from England,
he having been a pupil iu Kew Gardens, and
one of the old school. This was at the end
of the last century. There is no trace of this
old-fashioned nursery now remaining, unless iu
the presence of some line specimens of Copper
Beech, Golden and Weeping Ash, aud some Beech
Hedges, &c. The house is still standing, but
cattle graze on the site of a once old-fashioned
lovely garden — one such as the pen of Lord
Beaconstield, in Lolhair, fully described. Here
were great tall Peonies, all sorts of Gentians,
Rockets, old-fashioned Dahlias, Pinks, Carnations,
Potentillas, Columbines, Honeysuckles, Sweet
Briars, "Dusty Millers" (Auriculas), all colours in
doublo Primroses, including tho scarce crimson
Pompadour ; Scotch, Cabbage, and York and Lan-

li we 3; 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

351

ducks were wont to make their nests, usiug the
dried leaves for the purpose. Then bowers of
Everlasting Peas and Jasmines, great tall Lupins,
Hepaticas, including the rare double blue; and
quails and corncrakes frequented this spot — the
former I have not seen for forty years in Ireland.
On a May morning in those times, before the
mowing-machine was thought of, and when the
scythe did the work, the perfume from the cut-
grass, the odour from the Tulips, Wallflowers,
Hawthorns, the song of the birds, even the noise
of the whetstone on the scythe, which came in at
the windows, made such a delicious whole that one
could not remain in bed. Then one had a romp in
the mounds of green grass, and the white smock
got stained green, and had to be dusted over with
(four for fear of mother's auger.

The late Anthony Trollope thought out some of
his earliest novels sitting within a summer-house
smoking in this old garden during the years '47,
'4S, and '49. He loved the old spot, aud rented it
for three years !

But now to talk about the blaze of colour in
Tulips at Aid Cairn, and to look at them this
lovely May morning, when they forcibly remind
oue of a field-day with Lancers, their pennons aloft
in Phoenix Park. What can possibly afford such
rich colouring as good blends of Gala Beauty,
fulgens, fulgens lutea, elegans lutea, spatulata
in scarlet, orange, and striped ; Didieri, in three
or four colours; then Bronze King and Queen,
Sunray, Sunset, and Billietiana : Golden Eagle,
Golden Crown, Buenovenuta, Neglecta Picta
(various), Fairy Queen, rich heliotrope and yellow ;
John Ruskin, a lovely ripe apricot colour and
yellow ; the rare and scarce fawn-coloured variety
Flava; Bridesmaid, Bouton d'Or, Ixioides, soft
canary yellow, with black base or blotch ; Gesne-
riaoa lutea, maciospila, Shandon Bells, Silver
Queen, York aud Lancaster. In white Tulips we
have Snowdon, Didieri alba, elegans alba, &c. But
to fill up the gap with extreme effect there must of
necessity, for sake of rose aud scarlet, be plenty of
Tulipa Gesneriaua var. major in its four colours.
The latter so cheap and sweet scented. This
Aid Cairn collection of May Tulips does not include
the Darwin, old English or Flemish sorts, and as
now seen is one of the richest iu the Uuited
Kingdom. Communicated, May (i, 1899.

Where the disease has existed, the soil round tho
plant should bo removed quite down to the crown,
and fresh soil mixed with quick-lime added. Geo.
Masiee.

T.EONY DISEASE.

This disease, as occurring in England and
Ireland, caused by a fungus called Sclerotinia
Paeonise, is uot perennial in the tissues of the host-
plaut. This season, I have had the opportunity of
carefully examining many hundreds of diseased
leaves, received from widely separated localities in
England and Ireland. The disease, in every in-
stance, is seen to commence at tha'j portion of the
leaf-stalk situated about half an inch to an inch
below the surface of the soil, aud if the leaf-stalk
is examined when the disease is just commencing,
there will be found in every instance one or two
inches of perfectly healthy leaf stalk below the
diseased portion.

Within a short time after its appearance, the
disease extends down to the base of the leaf-stalk,
the edges of the leaves curl inwards, aud soon the
leaf bends over and dies. In some instances,
where the disease is abundant, the Botrytis con-
ditiou extends to the foliage also. All infection of
the leafstalks is due to the presence of selerotia in
the soil, that were formed on the decaying leaf-
stalks of the previous season. Of course, when the
disease is present on even a single plant, the
Botrytis spores are readily scattered by wind, and
thus infect neighbouring plants.

Preventative measures. — On the first symptoms
of the disease, indicated by the curling of the edges
of the leaves, such leaves should be removed,
taking care to pull away the base of the leafstalk.
Spraying at intervals of four days with a solution
of ammoniacal carbonate of copper would check
the spread of the disease due to Botrytis spores.

CYPEIPEDIUM "ALICE."

This is the result of a cross between C. Stonei and
C. Spicerianum. The flower we illustrate (fig. 125)
is a monstrosity, showing a common tendency in
Orchids to assume a dimerous or two-parted con-
dition. In the present flower, we have one sepal
anil oue petal both placed in the same antero-
posterior plane, and a central column which also
gives indication of the presence of two stamens,
not placed laterally as they are usually, but one
opposite the other. The Sower appeared in a plant
exhibited by Messrs. Veiteh & Sons.

Colonial Notes.

— • —

SINGAPORE.

In' answer to your inquiry, I would put myself
to considerable inconveuience with pleasure, if I
could find Pinus Merkusii anywhere here, or any

FlQ. 125. CYPRIPKD1UM "ALICE' : M U.FORMi:i> FLOWER.

other Pinus in our hills. I have never seen or
heard of it anywhere in the peninsula, nor auything
likely to be it, nor have I ever met anyone from
Sumatra or Java who claimed to have seen it. I
am prepared, however, to believe it exists. Our
Conifera? here are Dacrydium elatum, and a Dacry-
dium like a Spruce Fir, which never produces,
apparently, fruit or flowers, and which has been, I
believe, supposed at home to be only a state of D.
elatum— it grows on Ophir and other hills ; Podo-
carpus eupressinus, P. neglectus, P. species which
I have not identified, and Dammara robuata. That
is all I have seen or heard of. But you will
remember our biggest mountains, Tahan, Kerban,
aud some others, have never yet been got at — at
least, by anyone who would take the trouble to
bring anything down from the top. There may be
Pines on the top of them, but I doubt it very much.
One may reckon Pines as northern (Himalayan
flora) plants. Now, as high as I have been, I have
never yet seen any Himalayan types here. Ranun-
culus, Primula, Gentiana, are all absent ; they
all occur, however, in Java, aud often at no greater
elevation than I have been in the peninsula. Linaria
alpiua was once found on Mount Ophir ; I have
hunted for it on two occasions, and could not liud

it, nor has anyone before or since done so ; but
that is the only boreal alpine I know of here.
Indeed, our hill-top flora is more Australian than
northern, so I do not expect to find Pines here at
all. But you may depend that if I do, you will
soon hear of it. and I shall attempt to get the thing
alive to England. Henry N. Ridley. [P. Merkusii
is recorded iu books as occurring in some of the
islands of the Indian Archipelago. Ed.] \

Sydney.

One of our pests here is the flying-fox— a gigantic
bat with a spread of wings 2 feet across. These do
immense damage to the summer fruits, if not scared
away. This pest is disappearing with the settle-
ment of the country, but the foxes are still
sufficiently numerous to do much harm. They
have only recently put in an appearance this year,
but they were in time to work havoc amongst my
late Peaches, of which they destroyed about ten
cases. We erected bird-scares, which are effectual
as long as the wind is blowing, but not at other
times. We turned out with guns and shot a few of
them, and scared off the rest, and after our first
night's "battue "but few appeared. During the
day they hang suspended from trees, generally
choosing for their " haunt " the least accessible
gullies. When a "haunt" is discovered there is
great slaughter, all the people from the neighbour-
hood turning out to the work. In a sparsely-
populated country like this, they often remain
undiscovered for years. A. P., April 4.

Book Notice.

Flora of Kent, being an account of the floweriug
plants, Ferns, &c, with notes on the topo-
graphy, geology, and meteorology, and a
history of the botanical investigation of the
county, by F. J. Hanbury and E. S. Marshall
(Rev.), with two maps. (London: Frederick
J. Hanbury, 37, Lombard Street.)
The title-page is really a table of contents, aud
so well does it indicate the nature of the book that
not much remains for the reviewer to do, beyond
advising all interested in the Flora of Kent to
purchase it forthwith. Botanists have been im-
patiently waiting for this book for nearly a quarter
of a century, but we do not think they will be
disappointed now that it is placed within their
reach.

The Kentish Flora is specially interesting from
its great diversity — a diversity consequent upon
the variety of physical conditions. In spite of
modern "improvements," few counties possess so
many delightful localities for botanical excur-
sions. The chalk range from end to end of the
county, the sea-side flora, the mud-flats of the
estuaries, the thrilling excursions to be made along
the downs near Dover, or in the ucdercliff be-
tween that town aud Folkestone, the delights to
be experienced in the sand-hills near Deal, and in
the golf-links by Littlestone ; the startling sur-
prise felt by one who visits for the first time
Dungeness in the early summer months, may all
be specified iu illustration of our assertion. Thirty-
three out of forty-four British species of Orchids
are to be found within limits of the county.
Quite lately the Lizaid Orchis, supposed to be
extinct, has been re - discovered on the chalk
formation. Small thanks to the inconsiderate -
ness with which the fact was published. Happily,
the habit which many of the tuberous -rooted
Orchids have of passing a considerable propor-
tiou of their life underground may serve to pre-
serve them from the ravages of plant-collectors.
In any case, every field-botanist knows that
Orchids are very abundant in some seasons in a
particular locality, whilst in another season not a
specimen can be found in the same field. The
"Lizard" may thus escape entire annihilation.
Cotyledon Umbilicus, Osmunda regalis, and
Ceterach oflicinaruni, are no longer to be found iu
their old localities.

352

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Jonk 3, 1809.

On the other hand, some plants have been
introduced, spread, and multiplied ; such are
Lepidium Draba, said to have been introduced
with sacking, &c, on the return of the troops
from the Walcheren Expedition. DiaDthus Caryo-
phyllus is reputed to have been introduced by the
Normans. It is, or was, found on Rochester Castle
walls, and similar situations, leading to the infer,
euce. first expressed we believe by Canon Ellacombe.
that it may have been introduced by the Norman
invader. Considering the large use of Caen stone,
it is quite possible that some of the "introductions "
may have been due to the extensive importations of
the stone as building material. While speaking of
introductions, we may note the record made in this
volume of the occurrence of Senecio squalidus on
the city wall at Canterbury. The present writer
has to plead guilty to having introduced it more
than forty years ago from the college walls at
Oxford. The note from the late Mr. Gulliver,
dated 1875, is therefore of much interest. Acorns
calamus is recorded as an alien probably planted ;
but in our botanising days it grew in the Sturry
marshes. Moreover, there is a tale current relating
to this plant which, if it cannot be substan-
tiated in every detail, is essentially correct,
and which would go to show that the plant
was native to the county. The tale is this : Many
years ago — probably sixty or more years since
— a native of Kent, somewhere near Maidstone,
was advised by a London physician, whom he had
consulted, to procure, for medicinal purposes, the
root of the Sweet Flag. On enquiring where this
was to be procured, the patient was referred for
information on this point to the late Mr. Masters,
of Canterbury, who had a good knowledge of local
plants. On applying, accordingly, to Mr. Masters,
the enquirer was informed in full detail where the
plant was to be found, the locality thus minutely
detailed proving to be a pond or piece of water
immediate opposite the questioner's residence !

Many years ago there was an herbarium formed
by Mrs. Grayling, in the Canterbury Museum. It
was not likely to have been " critically " named,
but at any rate it gave a very fair representation of
the plants in the immediate vicinity of Canterbury.
Perhaps — probably even — it is not in existence now,
for when we saw it last, several years ago, it was
evident that no care was taken of it. In the Dover
Museum is a similar collection. Neither of these
herbaria is mentioned in the list given in the volume
before us, and there are probably also herbaria in
the museums at Folkestone and Maidstone.

We have not space to advert at greater length
to a most interesting volume — one of almost as
much importance to the geologist a3 to the botanist,
but we may, in conclusion, repeat what we said in
the beginning, and advise everyone interested iu
Kentish botany to purchase this volume, for the
very good reason that it is indispensable.

Continental Novelties.

GIANT WINTER STOCK.

"One of the novelties for next season," writes
Mr. Ernst Benary, " will be a Stock of remarkable
beauty, and bearing immense flower-spikes of large
rose-shaped blooms of a bright rose-colour. " The
flower-spikes, -which accompanied this note, were all
that Mr. Benary describes the variety to be, and
they also showed a branching, compact habit. It
will prove a fine winter-flowering variety for pot-
culture.

THE BERMUDA LILY.

Tn continuing the study of the disease affecting
the Bermuda Lily, the writer was authorised to
visit Bermuda during the first weeks of April when
the Lilies were mostly in bloom.

During a two weeks' stay, nearly every Lily field
of importance was visited and examined. Great
diversity exists iu regard to the condition under

which bulbs as well as other crops are grown. The
soil of the islands, as is well known, varies from a
light " coral sand " with almost no organic matter
or mineral constituents, such as phosphoric acid,
potash, iron and free lime, to the deep or dark red
soils which are almost clay in their nature, con-
taining the finer silt-like sand with much organic
matter, more or less iron and phosphoric acid, but
often lacking in free lime. That the condition of
the soil has a very great effect upon the vigour and
healthf illness of the Lily is at once apparent to even
a casual observer. In fact, the Lily is not different
in this respect from most other crops. Bermuda
soil scarcely ever gets a rest. While one crop is
being taken out, another is put in, and sometimes
it is the same crop year after year. The question
of what fertilisers to use and the manner of using
them becomes a very important one, and is begin-
ning to lie fully realised by the most progressive
planters.

The Legislature has established a Public Garden
to be conducted along the same lines as the experi-
mental farms iu the United States and Canada.
The Superintendent of the Garden, Mr. G. A.
Bishop, formerly of Kew Gardens, England,
doing much to develop interest in agricultural
subjects. Shortly after reaching the Islands, a
year ago, he made a careful investigation of bulb
culture from all its standpoints, and published a
report. He recommended discarding and destroying
all diseased stock and propagating only from vigo-
rous, healthy bulbs, also to avoid land iu which
bulbs had been grown without rotation for several
years. Mr. Bishop also experimented with different
methods of treatiug the bulb to prevent develop-
ments of mites and fungi. As a result of putting
these recommendations into operation, many
growers have crops which are far superior to what
they had last year. There are many instances,
however, where growers preferred to follow their
old custom, with the result that hardly a healthy
plant can be found in their fields.

There are three diseases prevalent in the Islands,
one known as " Yellows " is evidently brought on
by a variety of causes. The first should be men-
tioned is a lack of lime in many of the soils, that is,
lime that the plant cau take up. A plant which is
not rich iu feeding roots is unable to take lime from
limestone, and as this is the condition of some of
the soil, the leaves of the Lilies growing in it are
almost white. Iu other cases, yellowing appears to
be due to a lack of iron : and a third cause for
yellowiug is decay and destruction of the roots by
fungi and mites. The latter cause produces
scattered cases, plants here and there throughout
a field are white, while their neighbours may be
perfectly green and vigorous. An examination of
these yellow scattered cases always revealed an
entire absence of feeding roots, or the destruction of
the root-hairs of the feeding roots to such an extent
that the plants could not obtain lime. It is, of
course, evident that the bulbs of these yellowed
plants cannot be as vigorous as those produced by
plants having green leaves. As a matter of fact,
these yellowed leaves cannot make any nourish-
ment whatever for the dependent bulb, and unless
they turn green again, as they occasionally do,
after the production of new roots, the top is
worthless.

Another disease which is very prevalent, and
often very dest motive to the leaves and stems of
plants, is one known as "Ward's Disease." This
is characterised by the appearance on the leaves of
small brown spots, which in moist weather increase
rapidly in size, finally destroying the whole top.
Where fields are not properly sprayed with
Bordeaux Mixture, this trouble may sometimes
defoliate the plants shortly after the flowering
period, cutting off much valuable and important
nourishment from the bulbs. That this disease
has had something to do with the general weaken-
ing of the stork cannot be doubted.

The third disease is one which we recognise here :
the leaves are deformed, light-coloured, often
covered with numerous, minute, shruukeu dead

spots, due to the attack of green-fly, and spots
produced as the result of the general weakened con-
dition of the bulbs. Such plants seldom, if ever,
produce a good flower, and their roots are always
badly infested with mites and fungi. This trouble
is readily distinguished from the former, and un-
doubtedly is a direct result of a weak bulb. These
are the plants which the Bermuda grower must
carefully weed out and destroy. If this is doue
systematically, aud careful attention is given to
reuovating aud improving the soil, it will not be
long before the forcer of Bermuda bulbs can count
with some certainty upon his crop of flowers.

1 was much pleased to find a very strong senti-
ment against cutting and shipping of flowers to sell
iu the United States. The best growers unani-
mously condemn this proceeding, but it is difficult
to prevent unscrupulous people from giving the
Islands a bad name in this respect. The injurious
effect upon the bulb of cutting off several inches of
the stem with the flowers and buds, has been many
times pointed out. It is as injurious as if the top
had been killed by fungi, and often more so, as it
is a great shock to the plant, and has a tendency
to cause premature starting of the bulbs.

The practice of disbudding, leaving only one bud
to a plant, is quite generally followed, and there
can be little doubt but that it is beneficial to the
plant and hence to the bulb ; but this is an entirely
differeut process from cutting ofi' the top, as every-
one acquainted with the principles of plant growth
knows.

Those of us interested in bulb culture have some-
times thought that this was the main industry of
Bermuda ; but as a matter of fact, while it is one
of the very important industries, it is said to be far
exceeded by the raising of Potatos and Onions.
These are also mainly shipped to the New York
markets for distribution over the United States
The Onion appears to be subject to a number of
important diseases. The greatest loss has beeu
suffered this year as a result of the attack of thrips.
The work of these little insects causes the tops to
become blotched with white dead spots, aud if the
thrips are very numerous the tops are killed, all
except the young growth. The spots produced by
thrips are oftcu followed in damp weather by
decay-producing fuugi. One of these is Macros-
pori'.im. This fungus is thought also to attack
healthy plants, and is very prevalent in some parts
of the United States. A fungus disease which is
more common is known as the Onion-rot, and is
related to the fungus which causes a similar rot of
Potatos. The roots of the Onion and the bulb are
often attacked by the same mite that attacks the
Lily bulb. We observed a number of instances
where considerable damage had been done in this
way. The trouble on Onions, however, will likely
not develop to any great extent, owing to the fact
that they are grown from seed obtained from
Teneriffe. Onious should not be used for rotation
with Lilies. Albert F. Woods, Division of Vegelabli
Physiology and Pathology, U, S. Department of
Agriculture, in "Florist's Exchange."

The Herbaceous Border.

TRILLIUM GRANDIFLORIM.

Tins charming Trillium is so much admired
that any improvement in its (lowers can hardly
fail to be appreciated. The rcfereuce to a large
flower shown among Messrs. Ban & Son's plan!s
at the meetiug of the Royal Horticultural Society,
ou Tuesday, May 10, leads me to remark that
there appears to be considerable variation in the
size of the flowers. Three or four years ago a
friend in Canada sent me a number of clumps
collected in Ontario. Several of these wore put
together in a large pot, in which they have siuee
remained. One of these plants has annually pro-
duced flowers considerably larger, and consequently
finer, than those of the others. The difference
mainly consists in the breadth of the petals. In

Jitnk 3, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

353

the same pot one can discern a considerable differ-
ence in the size of the blooms, there being nearly
an inch of variation in the width of the petals.
These plants have not been disturbed since their
first planting on coming from Canada, so that the
difference in size can hardly be accounted for by
attributing it to cultivation. One plant also
comes with a green mark — an elongated, pointed
blotch — in the centre of each petal. The soil and
cultivation do, however, account very largely for
the comparative beauty of T. grandiflorum in
gardens. Thus, in my own garden, a portion from
one of the best plants I have ever met with never
equals in point of size nor beauty its parent. In
the interesting and well-kept garden whence it
came, the Trillium is always grown in a border
under the shade of Apple-trees. The soil is not
what one would think a good one, being light, dry,
and poor from the large proportion of granite-sand
in it. Yet the plants are very fine, and soon
increase to large dimensions. The last time I saw
the Trilliitms in flower in that garden, one clump
had thirty expanded flowers on it, although it had
beeu divided about two years before. The flowers
are much finer than any I can secure in my soil,
which is light and dry as well, but which I have
tried to make amends for by planting the Trillium
in a low, half-shaded position where it can be well
supplied with moisture. It is to be hoped that
others who have plants which show flowers of
exceptional size will try to increase them when
possible.

Iberis Little Gem.

In the same report mention is also made of Iberis
Little (Jem, which quite deserves the prominence
given it. It has been in my garden since early in
1897, and is now in bloom for the third season
since it came to me from Wiuchmore Hill. It has
increased in size, as may be supposed, since that
time, but this has been more in diameter than in
height. Measured to-day in full bloom, it is
exactly .r> inches in height in the centre — and
highest part— of the plant. It is grown on a sunny
rockery facing almost due south, and in light and
sandy peat. It is oue of the most valued rock-
plants I have because of its hardiness, free-flowering
habit, and — a notable merit — its giving no trouble.
It blooms as freely as the taller varieties of I.
sempervirens, to which I suppose it belongs. It
roots easily from cuttiugs, aud oue would hope, will
scou be quite plentiful. There are many positions
in which this pretty little plant can be grown,
where the larger Candytufts would be out of
place.

Ibeuis Perfection.

One is naturally led to refer to this Caudytuft
after speaking of Little Gem. Its value does not,
however, consist in a dwarf, neat habit like the
foregoing, but in the large size of its corymbs and
individual Mowers, and in the purity of its white
blooms. One would like to kuow to whom we are
indebted for these improved perennial Candytufts,
He is a bold man who applies the name "Perfec-
tion" to a flower if he intends it to remain appro-
priate, and in view of the advance still likely to be
made with hardy flowers, one cau only say that
the name is appropriate enough in the meantime.
Climax is another good Candytuft, and both are, I
consider, superior to the one named I. sempervirens
superba. S.Arnolt, Carsethorn, by Dumfries, X./l.

Forestry.

— »
THE LEAFING OF TREES.
SpRiNii is a season so popular among lovers of
Nature, that anything relating to it awakens
pleasing associations and ideas. Iu the poetical
mind spring is invariably regarded as the symbol
of regeneration of youth, aud the awakening of
dormant energies iuto growth and action. It is
evident that most of these ideas and associations
owe their origin to the vegetable world, for it
affords by far the most striking illustration of

those periodic alternations of active and passive
existence which are more or less peculiar to
organic life.

Probably iu no class of plants is the phenomenon
more striking and attractive than in the burstiug
into leaf of deciduous trees and shrubs, for the
change from bare twigs and apparent lifelessness
to the tender green of the young foliage is both
sudden and beautiful in its effect, and possesses
for the first few days the additional attraction
of novelty. The most pleasing feature which
presents itself in this leafing process is the great
variation in point of time, not only between the
leafing of different species, but also between dif-
ferent individuals of the same species. It is a
well-known fact that some species require much
more warmth to start them into growth than
others, the former being classed as late, aud the
latteras early varieties. Various attempts have been
made to determine the exact amount of heat
requisite to start into growth different species of
the vegetable kingdom, and "thermal constants"
have been formulated which are supposed to repre-
sent the warmth of the sun, reckoning from an im-
aginary year upwards, necessary for the development
of different phases of growth. With some plants
reported observations at the same and different
stations have resulted iu approximately identical
totals, although the methods of reckoning, aud the
numerous factors of growth other than heat, render
the science of " phenology " of a more or less
theoretical nature.

From annual experience, however, we kuow the
warmer or colder the local climate, the earlier or
lain- vegetation shoots into growth or becomes
developed, while soil, situation, and exposure also
exert considerable influence on the process in
question. All these influences upon growth are so
well recognised, as to be accepted as a matter of
course by gardeners, foresters, and farmers, and
the result of them is invariably anticipated in
cultural and other operations peculiar to the calling
of each. But in the leafing of trees a factor is
brought to view which is probably less clearly seen
in other forms of plant life, viz., individuality.

Iu many cases, the growth aud development of
certain species are too often regarded as of a fixed
and definite nature, and the characteristics of one
plant taken for granted as being typical of the
species. Close observation, however, demonstrates
the fact that no two individuals are exactly alike,
either iu form, colour, or mode of growth, and with
some genera this variation is greater between
individuals of the same species than between
individuals of two different species. In the case
of trees, habit of growth, and the comparative
earliness or lateness of beginning and finishing it,
are the most striking characteristics of individuality;
and to the latter, spring and autumn foliage owes a
great deal of its beauty. Iu a mixture of early and
late leafing species, the greatest variation in point
of time will be seen, of course, but trees of the same
species, and growing side by side, will be found to
vary to a much greater extent than might lie
supposed. With some early species, such as the
Larch, a spell of cold weather will greatly increase
the difference in the time of leafing of two
individuals, but. as a general rule, a difference of
three weeks or a month can be observed in the
leafing of trees growing side by side, and with the
same exposure and soil. With the Beech, con
siderable intervals elapse between the earliest and
latest, varying from a fortnight in some situations to
a month or even longer iu others. The Spruce is also
a tree which shows a marked individuality in this
respect, probably more so than any other, for as
much as six weeks will sometimes separate early
and late individuals. The Oak rarely shows a
difference of more than three weeks, although it is
a more difficult matter to note the first appearance
of the leaf with this tree than in the case of the
Beech or Larch. The differences noted above vary
of course with the season, a quick, warm spring
shortening, and a long, cold oue lengthening the
intervals by a week or ten days. Another pecu-

liarity I have noticed with the leafing of indigenous
trees, is the fact that trees growing on north slopes
are frequently earlier in leaf than those growing
with a greater exposure to the sun. Why this
should be so is not easy to say, unless owing to the
fact that plump, well-ripened buds are longer in
bursting than those on badly-ripened shoots. Dif-
ferences due to elevation and latitude are, of
course, more strongly marked still; and a vast
amount of information on this subject has been
gathered together by the German Forestry Besearch
Stations, the chief features of which were published
two years ago. A. C. Forbes.
(To be

Home Correspondence.

THE GARDENS AT POWIS CASTLE.— On the
occasion of a recent visit to Powis Castle, Welsh-
pool, I was pleased to see that this grand old place
fully sustains its past reputation amongst the
famous gardens of this country. Improvements
effected by Mr. Lambert may be seen everywhere.
Owing to a large and increasing demand for orna-
mental plants for house-decoration, Pines are not
now so extensively cultivated as formerly, the pits
only being utilised for the purpose. The span Pine-
stoves have been remodelled, and adapted to the
cultural requirements of decorative and flowering
plants. Noticeable amongst the indoor plants are
fine batches of healthy Malmaison Carnations, well-
coloured Codi^ums, Cordylines, and Caladiums.
Calanthes, which are always fine at Powis, have
started away again strongly and well. A batch of
Acalypha luspida (Sanderi) was particularly notice-
able ; Eucharia are also cultivated very successfully.
Early Melons in several structures are swelling-off
a crop of handsome fruits. Strawberries on shelves
were abundant. The greater part of the vineries
have in recent years been replanted, aud now look
most promising. Some well-trained young Apple-
trees in the kitchen-garden promise well. Peaches
and Apricots on walls, despite an unfavourable
season, have set an abundant crop. Chrysanthe-
mums are ^ represented by several hundred sturdy
plants. Extensive alterations and additions are
being made to the pleasure-grounds, which, wheu
completed, will greatly improve the place ; and last,
but certainly not least, a handsome, commodious,
and convenient bothy for the young gardeners is in
course of erection. W. H. W.

COTTON PLANTS IN THE BOTANIC GARDENS,
LIVERPOOL. — Amongst a number of these interest-
ing plants (Gossypium barbadense) cultivated here
last year, oue was noticed that produced a greater
number of pods than others, and was dwarfer iu
habit. Towards the end of the season cuttings
were taken from it, and at the present time they
are bearing a number of pods, already the size of
Walnuts. The plants are also considerably dwarfer
than those raised from seeds taken from the same
plant. /. O.

RHUBARB LEAVES AS A VEGETABLE. — More
than twenty years ago I was staying at the house
of a French friend at a town in Burgundy. One
day a dish appeared at table, which my host
informed me was Bhubarb, of which he had heard
the English were very fond. It consisted of the
leaves, stalks and all, cooked as a puree, after the
fashion of Spinach and Sorrel. To me it was not
agreeable, and I infinitely preferred Sorrel— its near
relative. But then, it may have been my bad
taste and want of education. At the same table,
young Globe Artichokes, split longitudinally, ap-
peared raw, as a salad, and were eaten by the
family at every meal. Here again it was probably
my bad taste ; a single trial revealed a flavour
such as I imagine young Fir-cones possess, and I
could not again be persuaded to deprive the family
of some portion of a delicacy. It. McLachlan.

VINE-MILDEW.— Is Mr. Mallett's method of
treating the Vine-mildew, by thoroughly syringing
Vines with water at boiling point, old, or quite
new? Certainly I have never heard of any such
treatment previously, but others may have done so.
If any readers have seen hot water so tried, or have
themselves used it, will they detail the effects. I
regard what Mr. Mallett has told us as the most
important pronouncement in relation to any kind
of plant disease made since the introduction of the

354

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[Inxi: 3, 1899,

famous Bordeaux Mixture. It has the merit of
being a cheap remedy, and if it be so effective on
Vines, and so harmless, then why not on numerous
other plants as well. Plantsmen as well as growers
of Grapes, will be interested to learn that hot
water destroys that inveterate insect pest mealy-
bug, and if it will kill that, then there is no insect
pest that its application will not destroy ; just as if
it kills Vine mildew, it will kill other plant
funguses. Tomatos are very subject to fungoid
disorders, will these plants bear such drastic
treatment? may Peas infested with mildew be
similarly treated? Will hot water cleanse fruit-
bushes of the mite, aphis, or red-spider ? What if
hot water be a remedy for the Black-Currant mite,
what a gain would that be. Evidently we shall
have the getting of myriads of things into hot
water literally, or hot water on to them. Perhaps
it will kill woolly aphis on trees. Perhaps dipping
Auriculas affected with that pest into hot water
will destroy it. The imagination seizes greedily
upon myriads of possibilities for the beneficial use
of boiling water. Oh, for the desired school of
experimental horticulture, where its effects may be
fully tested. A.

THE LATE JAMES KELWAY.— To be portrayed,
described, and praised after death in the pages of
the Gardeners' Chronicle makes your journal into a
species of horticultural Wallhalla, for to be thus
honoured is honour indeed. James Kelway, be-
sides living a very long life, lived a most useful
one, and in relation to horticulture, a great one.
How readily is his life's work praised, now that he
is gone. Strange was it, to me at least, that when
what were called " honours " were, a couple of years
since, being so lavishly given away, the "grand
old gardener " of (Somerset should have beeii
ignored. Some far less worthy than he might have
waited until they had become worthy. But,
honoured or uuhonoured, James Kelway has left
behind a name and reputation that will live when
that of some others have been forgotten. A. D.

RETARDING PEACH AND NECTARINE-TREES.—
The destruction of the flowers of Peach and
Nectarine-trees on open walls in some parts of the
country by the early spring frosts, should point
out to gardeners the necessity of inventing some
more successful method of protection than that
which now obtains, or of retarding the flowering
season of these trees. Something more is required
than double fish-netting, tiffany, and the like, to
exclude such frosts as we have recently experienced,
and in case3 of heavy storms with sleet aud snow,
much damage may be done to the flowers by
allowing the protecting material to flap against
them [It is usual to guard against this. En.], to say
nothing of the exclusion of bees and other agents
for polknisation [The trees should be exposed
during the day. Ed.]. I am fully convinced that
protecting material does more harm than good.
When in charge of some gardens on the south
coast, I was desired, much against my will, to cover
a wall of trees, and accordingly did so, four trees
remaining uncovered on account of insufficiency of
material. These four were the only ones which
produced anything like a crop, they were also quite
free from blister, whilst the other trees became
badly affected. At Isleworth no protection of auy
kind is used, yet a fairly heavy crop is always
secured, that of last year being somewhat below
the average. This year only four trees out of sixty
have no fruits, two of those being very youug and
two very old ; the others are showing abnormally
heavy crops, and as many as forty fruits have been
counted to the square foot (sample shoot enclosed).
Until this date (May 26) I have removed nearly a
peck of young fruits, and many more have yet
to be thinned out. The reason for this success is
not far to seek. It is a practice amongst gardeners
to plant Peach and Nectarine trees on raised in-
clined borders ; the obiect being to secure the
maximum amount of warmth from the sun's rays,
thus rendering the produce of that border a week
earlier than that of the level ground. Is it not
this additional warmth that hastens root-action,
and as a consequence, early flowering ? Trees on a
level border in these gardens prove that it is so,
when compared with those in an inclined border on
a neighbour's wall, which runs parallel with my
own, 50 yards distant. The climatic conditions,
the aspect, and the varieties of fruit are identical,
yet 1 have a heavy crop and the neighbour has
not auy, because his trees flowered a week earlier
than my own. I may add here that when the

flowers were dry at mid-day, I pollenised them by
forcing air among the organs by means of a garden
syringe fitted with a single jet ; it is much quicker
than the " rabbit's tail" and other methods, and
is most effective in dispersing the pollen. The
annual forking of the surface of the borders also
conduces to early flowering, as the warmth of the
sun's rays is admitted thereby to the roots ; unless
the soil is unusually retentive, or has been fouled
by frequent mulchings, such annual forking is
really unnecessary. I think every nurseryman who
raises fruit-trees will agree with me that the best
rooted trees in nursery beds are those close
to the walks, and that the best roots of
such trees are found under the walks where
the soil is trodden hard. Mulching is perhaps
necessary during summer to conserve moisture in
the soil, but manurial aid could be applied in the
form of artificial manures at a cheap rate, without
fouling the soil. If annual forkings effect anything,
they encourage the feeding roots too near the
surface to be safe from drought ; and on inclined
borders forking has to be done several times during
the summer, in order that water may be admitted
to the roots, this water being applied at consider-
able cost of labour, and then insufficiently done.
Trees on level borders may be soaked conveniently.
It is not possible for water to stagnate on level
borders if the drainage below the trees be in good
order. Where wide inclined borders exist, and are
cropped with early vegetable produce, as is the
case in these gardens, a plateau could be levelled
thus S , 6 or S feet from the wall, thus securing
a warm inclined border for such crops, and a cooler
level border for the trees. Lastly, the foot or more
of wall-space covered by the inclined border becomes
part of the paying area above the trees on the level.
Geo. B. Mall< It.

FROST AND THE FRUIT CROPS.— A succession
of frosts from the 24th to the 28th of May have
caused much injury to vegetation in this district,
aud in the Valley of the Ouse. The lowest recorded
temperature on the ground is 25° Fahr., and fol-
lowing a considerable rainfall, this has wrought
devastation amongst Potatos and other vegetable
crops, while the earliest Strawberry and Apple-
flowers have been cut in many places. It is strange
that we have had three similar periods of several
days' frosts in March, April, and May ; but the last
observation, though dealing with much higher tem-
peratures than iu the two preceding months, yet
show far greater and more general damage. /'. L.
Castle, Iiidgmont, Beds.

LATHR/EA SQUAMARIA. — On p. 329 of the

Gardeners' Chronicle, under the heading, "Cam-
bridge Botanic Garden," I observed the mention of
this remarkable parasite. L. squamaria is growing
in the pleasure-grounds at Wentworth on the roots
of Ilex aquifolium. [L. squamaria is common in
England, but not the prettier L. clandestina, except
where naturalised. Ed.] It has the appearance of
certain species of Orobanche, to which family it
belongs. P. Bolt, Wentworth Castle.

WOMEN AS GARDENERS.— Superior man cocks
up his nose mighty high when he hears or reads of
women as gardeners. There is one thing very
certain in relation to women in connection with the
vocation of gardening. It is that they bring to its
study far more earnestness, steadiness, attention,
and study, than the superior males do. If meu-
students were but endowed with woman's living
earnestness it would be much better for them. I
saw pretty well last summer, when giving lectures
weekly to some twenty-five young women and from
fifteen to sixteen young men, at the same hall, that
whilst the males took no notes and gave little
attention, the females gave the closest attention
and took notes freely, also at the close asking
questious. This was the experience of other
lecturers. If some ten years hence men find women
largely displacing them in the vocations of the
world, let them blame themselves and not the
perseverance of the ladies. A. IK

THE LATE MALCOLM DUNN ; PROPOSAL TO
RAISE A MEMORIAL. — Horticulture is, indeed, the
poorer for Malcolm Dunn's death, and it will be
very difficult tn fill the gap so caused. The last
issue of the Gardeners' Chronicle contained an
interesting tribute to his many good qualities, all
of which was true both in chapter and verse. There
are hundreds who would testify to his extreme
readiness to advise and help others, and the writer
of this note in particular is not likely to forget the

kind aud fatherly counsel given him some twenty-
seven years ago. I venture to say the name of
Dunn is still green in Co. Wicklow, as it is in
Scotland and England. A memorial of some kind
in honour of this worthy man is sure to be raised,
and whatever shape it takes, whether in the North
or the South, 1 shall consider it an honour to sub-
scribe my mite. Though gardeners, as a rule, are
not blessed with too much of this world's goods, I
am sure there are large numbers of the fraternity
who would only be too pleased to contribute to such
an object. /. S.

PARADISE STOCK.— I enclose a cutting from
the Field, and am astonished that such heresy
should be published by any paper. Although I
am in touch with most of the Kent growers, I
never heard of such a failure ; and such a retro-
grade step as a wholesale condemnation of the
Paradise stock points to the probability of the
grower having either purchased cheap stuff from
the Continent, or trees on the French Paradise,
which is well known to be worthless, and which none
of our best nurseries use. Quite recently, in my
paper before the Society of Arts, I drew attention
to this fact. When one sees the enormous gain to
growers the use of the best Paradise stock has been,
in point of fertility, early bearing, and heading,
when trees on Crab stocks fail, I feel that such a
libel should not go unanswered ; and in connectiou
with this subject, I may mention that I have
grand healthy Apple-trees on Paradise thirty years
old. It would be interesting to know from others
the age of trees on this stock which are doing well
or otherwise. Geo. Bunyard. [The paragraph in
question says, that out of several thousands of
Apples on the Paradise stock, not twelve are now
alive after an interval of " some years ago." The
writer recommends the Crab as a stock ; but if he is
correct, why graft at all ? Ed.]

THE DOUBLE DARK WALLFLOWER.— Mr. W.
Barr is to be congratulated on a notable find. He
has secured stocks of the true old Black Wallflower,
as it was called fifty years ago, when it was not un-
common in gardens. I saw it growing and flowering
but a few days since, and gladly recognised it as
the real Simon Pure, the lost sheep of the Wall-
flower family now found. It has similar habit to
that of its better known compeer, the double yellow
Wallflower, is fairly robust, and sends up from
strong shoots good long spikes of bloom. We have
seen it of late at the Drill Hall, that bourne to
which all good things, old and new, inevitably come
from somewhere, which shows that it is pretty
plentiful, if not very common. Doubtless, even
this fine double form suffers because it cannot be
perpetuated from seed, but then so little time and
trouble are needed to cause plants to be produced
through cuttings put in under a hand-light or in
pots stood in a frame. The flowers, whilst com-
monly called black, are really of a heavy maroon
colour, differing materially from those of the rus-
sety-red variety, by so many regarded as the true
form. It used to be known as Oheiranthus cheiri
luemanthus, or the " double - bloody flowered,"
which was a rather sanguineous appellation. We
may still, with fair consistency, term it the Double
Black Wallflower. Kingston.

KERRIA JAPONICA.— A large-flowered form of
this Chinese shrub is now in fine character on one
of the walls at the Chiswick Gardens of the Royal
Horticultural Society. The blossoms are larger
and fuller, as well as deeper in colour, than the
common double form ; as the last is growing near
it, a comparison is afforded. It is thought to have
been sent to the gardens by the late Col. Trevor
Clarke, but nothing is known as to its origin ; but
it makes an imposing wall-plant. With whom and
when the double form originated does not appear
to be known ; but Mr. G. Nicholson, in his
Dictionary of Gardening, states that the single-
flowered form is a much more elegant plant, having
a very graceful habit, and being nearly always in
flower. Visitor.

ACROPHYLLUM VENOSUM.— It is said that this
once popular New Holland plant has become very
scarce. One reason for this is to be found in the
fact that it is difficult to cultivate with anything
like success. It is not that the plant dies outright,
but it falls away into a stunted habit of growth,
out of which it is sometimes difficult to lead it.
Time was when finely-grown and bloomed examples
of this plant were seen at our large flower-shows in
collections of stove and greenhouse plants ; and

June 3, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

355

though a single spike of bloom is not much of itself,
a number of them on a well-grown specimen pre-
sented an attractive sight. " To grow it success-
fully," wrote Mr. Thomas Baines, "it requires the
best soil that can be got, soft-water, and close
attention. On no account should it be allowed to
stand out-of-doors, not even in the finest summer
weather. In one respect it differs from most other
greenhouse hard-wooded plants — it will not long
bear being under the full influence of the sun in a
light house during the summer." Mr. Baines'
favourite compost was the best fibrous-peat, care-
fully broken by the hand, all small particles being
rejected, adding one-seventh of sand, and potting
very firmly. Ealing.

OLD VARIETIES OF TULIPS AND DEPARTED
TULIP-GROWERS.— The florists' Tulip, of all flowers,
perhaps, needs open quarters and a pure atmosphere
in which to develop in perfection its richly marked
blossoms. It is this necessity, more than lack of
interest, in the flower which in the course of the
past thirty years has operated to banish it from
suburban gardens. Sixty years ago, collections of
Tulips were grown in the City Road, London, and
one cultivator, a Mr. Franklin, raised a great
number of seedlings, and obtained some fine forms
and colours ; a Mr. Bowler, of the Albany Road,
(Jamberwell, flourished at the same time, and
among the varieties which rectified with him, a
bizarre, Everard, caused a great sensation in Lon-
don Tulip circles. Mr. Greig, of Hackney Wick,
obtained a number of seedlings raised by a Mr.
Drinkwater of an earlier date, aud also by a Mr.
Clark. A "rose" named Juliet appeared in
Mr. Greig's bed, for which, it is stated, he refused
a very large sum of money. It is reported that Mr.
Clark had a seedling bed of eighty rows, represent-
ing some 600 bulbs, aud there is reason to believe
that cross fertilisation was not much resorted to in
those days, seed-saving being a somewhat hap-
hazard process, and therefore the appearance of
gems in a seed-bed was by no means frequent.
Johu Coldham, presumably the father of Henry
Goldham, of Tulip fame, purchased a number of
Mr. Drinkwater's and Mr. Clark's seedlings in the
breeder stage. He had himself been a raiser of
seedlings at Camberwell for some years. Gold-
ham spared no pains to acquire a collection of line
forms, and his sound and well directed judgment
helped him greatly in making his selections. He
seems to have stood unrivalled and alone in regard
to the value of his collection. It is reported that
Mr. Goldham had a fine strain of a bizarre named
Louis XVI. — a variety raised in Holland— aud he
was known to have refused the sum of £73 10«.
for it. Mr. Brooks, then occupying a nursery at
Ball's Pond, Islington, also had a collection, and
sold some highly - esteemed varieties at high
prices. Mr. Davy was then liviug in the King's
Road, Chelsea, where he grew Tulips, and raised
a variety, but of which class I do not know,
and named it " La joie de Davy '"" ; for this flower
he was offered the sum of £157 10s., and declined
it. The father of the brothers Lawrence, of
Hampton, obtained a bizarre named Polyphemus,
obtained from a breeder by Mr. Clark ; aud the
sum of £50 was given for four bulbs of it, though
it was known that other persons had it also. A
feathered byblcemeu named Fanny Kemble, also
raised from one of Mr. Clark's breeders, and of
which there was but one bulb and three small
offsets, was sold to Mr. Davy for £100. This
flower was figured in some of the florist's publi-
cations of the day, and was ranked very highly
by Tulip exhibitors for many years afterwards.
Mr. Davy died soon after this purchase, aud Mr.
Goldham became the possessor of the variety, pay-
ing nearly the same price for it. Mr. Holmes,
of Clapton, was also a noted grower, and broke a
valuable bizarre named Louis XVIII. At his death
his collection passed into the hands of Messrs.
Milliken & Groom, of Walworth ; aud this variety
was afterwards sold to Mr. Goldham for £42. At
that time George Glenuy was coming to the fore as
an authority on Tulips, and it is said that he
bought the stock of Mr. Bowler's Everard, com-
prising seven bulbs, for which he paid the sum of
£140. There is reason to believe that in the forties
— and relatively to the population of London in those
days— there were as many growers of Tulips in the
suburbs as there are of Chrysauthemums in the
present day. Up to the middle of thesixties it was not
an uncommon sight to see small beds of Tulips in the
back gardens of the houses abutting on the
WTal worth and Camberwell Roads, with their

protecting canvas - covering in May. To the
worthies whose names have been referred to, there
succeeded John Edwards, the Dicksons, the brothers
Brown, Scarnell, Strong, Sanders, Hunt, Betteridge,
Turner, Colman, &c. One by one these gave up
their collections, or died, and no one succeeded to
them. It will be matter for regret if a flower with
such a singular and fascinating history as the Tulip
should cease to be cultivated in the southern
counties of the kingdom. R. D.

GOOSEBERRY CLUSTER CUPS. — This fungus
disease of the Gooseberry, resembling to a certain
extent the Orange-rust of the Rose, is spreading
rapidly, so much so that I fear a magnificent crop
will be lost if it be not checked in its progress.
[Our correspondent sent for our inspection some
capital examples on leaf aud berry of this trouble-
some parasitic fungus. Ed.] At first the fruit aud
leaves only were affected, but afterwards it spread
to the young shoots. I have several hundred
bushes distributed over a large garden, and not one
is free from the fungus ; and in a neighbouring
garden the disease is very prevalent. We expe- .
rienced sharp frosts during the third week in March,
just as the bushes were coming into full growth,
when no apparent injury was done, although 14'
and 17J were noted, and during the month suc-
ceeding the berries swelled satisfactorily. From
May 2 to the 10th, the weather was extremely
cold, but fine, with a parching east wind. On
-May 11 the weather changed to rain, with some
thunder, and it is since that date that the fungus
has spread over the bushes. S. Piatt, Loughcrew
Gardens, Oldcastle, Co. Afeath.

The Rosary.

PREPARATIONS FOR THE COMING

SEASON.

Whatever may be the character of the ap-
proaching season, there is some essential work that
all who wish to compete at the forthcoming ex-
hibitions will have to consider ; and as I write for
those who are novices in that interesting branch of
Rose growing I will uotice some points which must
be carefully looked to. Iu the first place, tin- beds
must be well looked over, and if there are any
shoots which belong to the stock and not to the
Rose, they must be carefully cut away. W lien-
Roses are grown on the Manetti, these shoots are
more likely to be present than when the Roses are
worked on the seedling Briar or Briar cutting ; in
the former case they come from the stock itself, and
iu the latter from suckers thrown out from it.
The former are the more insidious because the
foliage of the Manetti is so like that of some of our
Roses, and a young grower may unwittingly be
nourishing an enemy which he fondly believes to be
a friend.

As the shoots advance great care will have to be
taken to get rid of the maggot, which often destroys
the hopes of the young grower ; the habit of this
pest is to get into a couple of leaves and then affix
them to the bud, at which it begins to work away,
aud when onee it has the opportunity of doing this
it is too late to apply any remedy. I have never
found that syringing is of any use : the only remedy
is to go through the Roses every morning, aud
wherever the commencement of this destructive
work is noticed, to at once destroy the maggot with
fiuger and thumb. It is not pleasant work, but no
one who loves Roses and wants to make a good
appearance, will quarrel much with this unpleasant-
ness. Should aphis appear (but of which as yet I
see no trace), syringing with some of the various
advertised insecticides must lie carried on ; and
here I would give a word of caution — in using these
various preparation be sure to adhere to the
directions given with them. Some persous are apt
to think that if 1 oz. is recommended it would be
a very good thing to make it a little stronger, and
take 2 oz. instead of one ; this will probably dis-
figure, and it may injure the Rose as well as the
aphis. Another point which the novice in Rose
growing often finds it very hard to carry out is that
of disbudding. There are some Roses which have
only one flower bud on a stem, while there are

others which have a cluster of three, four, and even
five ; it hardly need be said that if good and per-
fect blooms are wished for some of these must be
taken away. The grower must harden hia heart to
select the best bud to be fully developed, and take
away the remainder ; most Rosea form about three
buds. A blunt stick or a quill are quite sufficient
for this purpose in the earlier stage of development ;
and the sooner it ia done, the more will the strength
of the plant be thrown into the remaining blooms.

There is one point which oftentimes puzzles the
young exhibitor, that is in what class he is to com-
pete. Formerly he had but very little chauce if he
were a small grower, for he would be sure to find
aome one who has perhaps ten times as many Rose
treea as himaelf competing against him ; in fact, I
remember one instance in which one of our largest
amateur exhibitors entered in the class for six
blooms. This is now impossible, for by the new
arrangements of the National Rose Society the
place of exhibitors is regulated by the number of
plants they grow. So that it rests entirely with
the exhibitor as to what class he shall compete in.
An unknown correspondent wrote to me the other
day, and said he had but fifty Rose trees, and asked
in what .lass he had better exhibit. My reply was,
do not at tempt anything higher than six ; and if there
were a class for three I would have advised him to
compi to in that. Xo one who has not attempted it,
knows the difficulty there is iu getting even that
small number of blooms in good order for the
exhibition day. Most probably, my correspondent
will endeavour to have as many varieties as he
could without at all considering whether they were
reliable or not ; he wants to please himself by
having many good sorts, whereas if he had only an
eye to exhibiting ho would find out what were the
most trustworthy varieties for the date at which the
exhibition was to be held. If it were a late one he
would avoid such varieties as lime. Gabriel le Luizet
aud John Hopper, whereas if it were an early one
he would select these and such other Roses as have
the character of being early bloomers. It will thus
be seen how very difficult it is for auy grower of so
small a quantity of trees to obtain suitable blooms
for the day of exhibition. We are not likely iu
the present day, when Rose exhibiting is so much
improved, to see such dreadful sights of exhibition
boxes and setting up as we used to see. I well
remember the indignation of two amateurs whose
exhibits were passed over, one having crammed
triplets of Roses into a tube ouly intended for one,
thus making it impossible for the judges to ascer-
tain the character of the blooms ; and another who
in default of moss showed his box with a filling of
chopped hay. It is of course sometimes difficult to
obtaiu good green moss, and some exhibitors have
au advantage over others by being able to procure
it easily, whilst others cut the Gordian-knot by
useing dyed moss. The labelling is oftentimes
unsatisfactorily done, and therefore amateurs would
do well to use the tubes aud label-holders invented
by Mr. H. Foster of Ashford ; they are perfect in
their way, and are in almost universal use.

Tin: Season is a Late Oxf.

Now a word as to the season itself. It has been a
very varying one so far; we are now within a
month of the first show at which the National
Society will offer prizes. That cold spell which we
have for so many years experienced between May 2(1
aud the end of the month is now upon us, as I write
with its cold wiuds aud slight frosts at night; it
must therefore be a backward season, and exhibitors
must be in some degree of anxiety as to how their
flowers will come out, for when Roses are much re-
tarded by uugeuial weather they hardly ever attain
to their perfect developement. But our exhibitors
are spread over so large a portion of the country
that we may reasonably hope that some parts, pro-
bably the southern parts of the kingdom, will have
au advantage. The experience of last year shows,
however, that there are adverse circumstances
which it seems impossible to overcome, but " hope
on, hope ever " must be our motto. There is much

356

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 3, 1899.

enthusiasm amongst our exhibitors, and I dare say
after all our exhibitions will be fairly good ; and I
think the most sanguine expectations may be
indulged in with regard to that to be held at
Colchester, even should that at the Crystal Palace
not to be so successful as we hope it will be.
Wild Rose, May 15.

Variorum.

— «

Photographing Flowers.— As nearly every

person photographs now-a-days, the following hints,
taken from a recent issue of the Boston Herald,
U.S.A., may be acceptable to many of our readers :
The photographing of flowers is one of the most
difficult and yet fascinating fields of work, especially
for those interested in still-life studies. With a
very little trouble, one can arrange an ordinary
room so as to make very good negatives of flowers.
A large window, as high as possible, should be
selected— one, if possible, with a working space on
each side. The flowers should be arranged ."> or li
feet from the window. To obtain an even light,
one which will light the top as well as the front of
the flowers, a screen of cheese- cloth or some other
light-coloured material can be fastened to the top
of the window, and carried out in the room 3 or 4
feet beyond the flowers. The background to be
used should be determined by the colour of the
flowers, but black is generally the best. This
background should be so placed that no shadows
will fall upon it. In this work, one thiug above all
others which must be sought for is perfect defini-
tion, which will demand the use of a small stop,
uuless a very large, long-focus lens is used. This
will prolong the exposure, so that it will generally
be found advisable to expose for at least ten
minutes. The flowers having been arranged, card-
board reflectors should be placed, one ou each side
of the flowers, so that they will reflect the light on
the deep shadows. This angle can easily lie found
by moving the cardboards and watching the flowers
carefully. The purpose of this is to avoid strong
contrasts, aud to flatten the light. In focusing,
tho camera should be set a few inches higher than
the flowers, and tilted slightly downward. In
photographing white flowers, halation will often
assert itself to a greater or less extent, aud it may
become necessary to use non-halation plates. The
development of the plates should always begin
with a weak solution, which will bring out tin'
details of the flower construction more thoroughly,
and will oftentimes overcome to a considerable extent
the obnoxious halation. The printing should bo
strong, and by a process which will bring out
delicate details, and give softness and tone as
nearly black aud white as possible. The colour of
the mount should be selected with reference to the
character and tone of the print.

The Week's Work.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Bedding out. — The season has now advanced so
far as to make it safe to plant out in the flower-
beds most of the summer occupants. A sketch of
the various designs aud parterres should ere this
have been prepared, which will make it easy work
provided each bed is labelled with the name
of the plants that will be planted in it, and
the mode indicated in which to plant them.
Harmony rather than strong contrasts in colours
should be aimed at, and plants having flowers of such
decided colours as crimson, scarlet, orange, pink,
and yellow, go well together, and those with purple
aud blue flowers, should be planted near plants
with flowers or foliage of white and yellow. In
Betting out the plants do not permit overcrowding,
but allow each a sufficient space for the roots to
spread and the plant assume its normal shape and
size. In mixed beds let the plants employed be
such as associate well together in regard to their
requirements, in regard to quantity of water and

manure, and shade or its opposite. Moreover,
mixed beds should be so arranged that the weaker
grow els are not over-powered aud smothered out
of existence by stronger growers. One thing of
great importance is never to plant anything that is
dry at the root, it being a difficult matter, then, to
moisten it uuder-ground. Provided that all of the
plants are well moistened at the root previous to
being planted, the bed need not be afforded water
for a few days. It is not a good practice to leave
plants in pots lying on their sides in the sun for
several days together awaiting planting, and if they
must wait, group them and draw a little soil up to
the outer lines.

Dahlias. — Let a position be chosen for these
plants where abundant sunlight reaches them, and
where they are sheltered somewhat from the wind,
the shoots being excessively brittle. In order to
have fine blooms, the plants must be afforded a
rich and deep soil, spent Mushroom-bed material
forming a good sort of manure for them, and in dry
weather water will have to be plenteously afforded.
Where large roots are planted, the shoots should
be reduced to the three strongest, which should be
tied separately to a stake or stakes, the ties being
loosened occasionally as the stems grow. Since so
many of the beautiful forms of the Cactus Dahlia
have been raised, the show and fancy varieties are
less valued, and there are now splendid varieties
of the Cactus type, which produce their blooms on
long stems which throw them prominently above
the foliage, and among the best of these are
Gloriosa, Lady Penzance, Miss Annie Jones, Miss
Frances Fell, Mrs. Charles Turner, Vulcan, Star-
fish, African, Matchless, J. E. Frewer, Keynes'
White, and Charles Woodbridge. The Pompou
varieties are very pretty, and form fine masses of
colour when planted in borders of herbaceous
perennials or in beds and borders by themselves ;
especially nice being the self-coloured varieties.
The best varieties to intermingle with shrubs are
Juarezi, Glare of the Garden, and Flambeau, these
affording a glow of colour in the garden when
flowering shrubs are out of bloom, and the effect
endures till the tints of autumn begin to show
themselves.

Bamboos. — These form graceful clumps of canes
and foliage, aud are grand additions to the flower-
garden and dressed grounds. Bamboos suffer in
appearance and iu health if much exposed to the
colder wiuds, and should, therefore, not be planted
unless thick shelter from trees and bushes is ob-
tainable. 15. Metake, Arundiuaria Simoni, A. fal-
cata, Phyllostachys viridi - glaucescens, and P.
Henonis rank amongst the hardiest species, aud
are also the best for planting in low-lying positions.
The tenderer species, of which I may mention P.
aurea, P. nigra, P. disticha, P. tessellata, aud P.
pygnKra, will succeed most satisfactorily when
planted in sheltered nooks in the grounds, and
in the rock-garden if space can be found for
them. Arundinarias and Bamboos need a rich,
light, well -drained soil with abundauce of water
in the season of growth. Propagation is by divi-
sion at the present season, that is, just as they
are starting into growth. The leaves of some
species of Bamboos fall in the winter months, still,
the gardener must not take that as a sign of extinc-
tion of life in the stems, and cut them down, as
they will again break from the axils of the leaves.
Bambusa Fortunei aurea, a very hardy species
of low growth, is a pretty plant for the edge
of a border or for planting on the rockery. Its
rhizomes soon extend, forming a pleasing mass of
variegated foliage of a yellowish hue.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortesctje, Esq., Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

Disbudding Apples ami Pears. — Pyramidal and
bush-headed Apple and Pear-trees should have their
surplus young growths removed about this date,
making a commencement with those in the inner
parts of the head, with a view to admitting light.
Whilst growths are soft, it will suffice to rub them
off the branches. It is usual for the leading
branches to produce shoots too abundantly, and the
most of these should be similarly removed. The
Pear-trees bloomed this year most profusely, but
the blooms have set unsatisfactorily; and iu the
case of trees of Beurre Hardy, Conseilier de la
Cour, Marie Louise, Bergamot d'Espercn, Duchesse
d'Angouleme, Pitmaston Duchess, Doyenne Bous-
soch, Beurre Superfin, and Beurre dAnjou, nearly

all the blooms dropped. A fair number of fruits
seem likely to be retained on the following, viz. —
Thompson's, Beurre Diel, Williams' Bon Chretien,
Durondeau, Marie Benoist, Louise Bonne of Jersey,
Knight's Monarch, Souvenir du Congrcs, and
■Tosephiue de Malines. Caterpillars have not been
very troublesome on Pear-trees up to the present
time, owing probably to the coldness of the weather ;
still, it will be wise in disbudding the trees to
remove all damaged fruits, and squeeze between
the finger and thumb all curled-up leaves.

Apple and Pear Cordons require a good deal of
disbudding, notwithstanding the fact of "dwarfing"
stocks being chosen for supporting them. In doing
this operation the gardener should stop the stronger
shoots and those most thickly placed first, and rub
off the remainder, excepting those to be retained
for the formation, later on, of fruit-spurs. These
reserved shoots should not be left closer together
than (i inches. If a leading-shoot of a trained tree
has reached the top of the wall or fence, or filled
the space allotted to it, let it be pinched at the
second or third leaf from the commencement of the
new growth ; but if there is space for further
growth let it go on unstopped, but take care that
it is traioed-iii early in the right direction.

The Morello Cherry. — Now that the fruit is set,
disbudding may have attention ; also pinch back
to two or three leaves all foreright shoots if it
be thought desirable to let spurs form, and remove
all those at the backs of the shoots, and any that
are badly placed. Shoots running in the right
direction, and those that are readily laid iu to
cover bare spaces, may be reserved iu sufficient
number to meet the requirements, and no more,
over-crowding beiug opposed to fruitfulness. The
ruling idea is to cut out at tho winter pruning much
of the old wood, and the previous year's shoots that
have borne fruit, aud insert the shoots of one year
old, thus renewing the youth of the tree. In going
over the trees clear off all the remains of fallen
blooms and petals, which would otherwise form
lurking places for injurious insects, supplementing
the work with a douche from the garden-engine.
If aphides attack the trees, as they usually do,
some soap-suds, a solution of Quassia, or Bentley's
Extract, may be put into the engine, using half -a-
piut of tho latter in two gallons of clear rain-water.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Cymbidium Lowianum. — That this most useful
Orchid is best suited by a cool system of culture is
abundantly proved by the grand floral display
anuually produced here under such conditions.
The flowers are capable of remaiuing fresh upon
the plants for a long time, and it becomes necessary
in the interest of the plants to remove the spikes
when they have been iu flower five or six weeks.
A week or ten days subsequent to the removal of
the flowers, those plants requiring larger pots should
be treated as follows : — Let the increase in the sizo
of the pots used be considerable ; the plants are
free-rooting, and it is not desirable to again disturb
them until three seasons or so. If the plants cannot
be easily removed from their receptacles in the
ordinary way, break the pots with a downward
stroke of a hammer. Place the ball of roots and
soil in the new pot to see how much drainage is
needed to bring the plant to the required level.
More crocks will be needed around the ball, but
they should be worked in with some of the rougher
portions of the compost. Fill in with alternate
layers of crocks and rough compost until within
3 inches of the rim of the pot, two of which should
be filled with compost, aud the other left for the
convenience of watering. The compost should
consist of good, lumpy, yellow loam one part, turfy
peat oue part, and the remainder of well-rotted
farmyard manure, sand, or finely broken crocks,
and sphagnum-moss. These ingredients should be
used in a moderately dry state, and be pressed
firmly together with a thin-edged rammer. Place
the plauts in a house that has ample means of ven-
tilation, where they are not more than 4 feet from
the roof-glass. At the present time the tempera-
ture may rise to 70° or more during the hottest part
of the day if the top and bottom ventilators be
open ; but during the night it. should recede to about
55°, or lower if natural conditions permit. Fire-
heat need only be used when the inside temperature
approaches 45', and a lower temperature even than
that will not harm the plants in winter, providing

June 3, 1899.]

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

357

the atmosphere be fairly dry. riauts not needing
to be repotted, should be supplied with sufficient
water to keep the soil in a moist condition, in-
creasing the supply, and alternating it with weak
manure-water as the season advances. Those re-
potted will require very little water at present, and
no manure-water during the present season. On
all bright days they may be thoroughly syringed
overhead morning and afternoon, the abundance of
air given tendiug to great evaporation.

Cymhidium gigaiiteutn, C. grandiflorum, and

0. Tracyanum, succeed under the same conditions
and treatment, but should be removed to warmer
quarters as soon as the flower-spikes appear, their
natural flowering reason being in the middle of
winter.

Cyperorchis elegans, usually kuown as a Cymbi-
dium, should be repotted if necessary. Excepting
that no stable-manure should bo given, aud con-
siderably less loam, the plant may be treated simi-
larly to the Cymbidiums.

Jtisccllaneous. — Bletia hyacinthina may now be
stood in a sheltered and sunny position out-of-
doors, but will still require root-waterings. Thunias,
likewise, if the flowers have past, may be hardened
off, and removed outside, and stood in the sun to
thoroughly ripen their pseudo-bulbs. Pleiones
should be afforded weak manure-water, and the
leaves occasionally sponged to prevent red-spider.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Cyclamens. — Such plants as were raised from
seed last August, which are now in 3-inch pots,
should be transferred to 5-inch ones, affording them
a compost consisting of two-thirds fihry loam, one-
part leaf-soil, silver-sand, and a small quantity of
rotten manure. Let the plants be stood on a layer
of coal-ashes or fine shingle, near the roof-glass,
in a low, moist house or pit, where a night tem-
perature of 55° is maintained, dispensing with
artificial heat as soon as that temperature can be
secured without its aid. Use the syringe
freely both among the pots and overhead ; air
freely when the plants are established, and afford
shade iu the middle of the day during bright sun-
shine. Fumigate the plants upon the first appear
auce of th rips or greenfly, which should be looked
for on the lower surfaces of the leaves. L'ater, the
plants may be shifted into 7-iuch or S-ineh pots,
according to the size of the plant, and the purposes
for which they are required.

Gloxinias and Achimenes. — The earliest batches
of these plants will now be coming into flower, and
should be assisted by applications of weak manure-
water, particularly in tho case of Achimenes grow-
ing in shallow pans and wire-baskets. The plants
should also be afforded a drier apd more airy
position than was necessary while they were
making their growth, a too close and moist an atmo-
sphere causing the flowers to damp-off. Gloxinias
may bo grown at this season iu a cooler tempera-
ture than would be advisable earlier iu the year ;
and where space is needed in the stove, plants
which are growing freely may be transferred to a
shelf in an intermediate-house. The propagation
of choice varieties of Gloxinias by means of the
leaves may be undertaken at this time, choosing
for the purpose the more mature leaves, and after
cutting the midrib through in two or three places,
peg the leaves down in paus filled with finely-
sifted loam aud sand in equal proportions. The
leaves should then be covered with a bell-glass,
and placed in the sun, iu the stove, or a warm
pit or frame.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Mark ii am, Gardener to the Earl ut* Si i: utord,
Wrotham Park, Barnet.

Cauliflowers. — Those plants which, having been
raised iu heat, have been grown under hand lights
and in cold frames, will, in the south, begin now to
have useable heads, and the beds should be ixi
mined from time to time, and the tips of the leaves
bent down, so as to keep the light from tho heads.
When one has become fit for consumption, cut it
from the plant early in the morning, and if not
required for immediate use put it in a cool place.
The showery weather has been suitable for planting,
and the larger plants raised from seed sown in the
open may, if space lie valuable, be pricked off into
nurse-beds, at a distance of (i inches apart, to be

lifted with good balls of earth later on ; but if a
suitable quarter be vacant, let it be prepared, and
set out the plants forthwith. Cauliflowers of the
dwarf Erfurt type may be planted at 15 inches
apart, the Walcheren and the stronger growing
varieties at "2 feet. Before planting draw mode-
rately deep drills, and plaut therein ; aud if
clubbing be feared dip the roots in soot-water, and
then in a puddle made with soot, clayey loam, and
water, to the consistency of thick paint. Another
sowing may be made, which will furnish Cauli-
flowers during the month of October.

Brussels Sprout*. — As the plants becomo large
enough, get them planted in the quarters, in lini -
and beds. If in contiguous lines, allow a space
'2 to '2\ feet from plant to plant ; single lines, '2 feet ;
for the greater the space, the more abundant the
crop of sprouts, and the longer time the stem-
leaves remain on the plant. Brussels Sprouts
succeed in a deep, moderately firm, rich soil.

Peas. — Make an abundant sowing of Marrowfat
Teas, this time in trenches. Ne .Plus Ultra will
be found an excellent variety, but any of the
Marrow Peas will answer for this sowing. Tho
last sowing of these kinds should take place from
June 10 to the '20th, after which date it is useless
to sow any of the taller kinds ; but a few rows on a
sheltered border of some early varieties may be
sown, which, if not cut off by frost, or crippled
with mildew, will afford Peas till late in October.
Earth up and put sticks to all rows when the plants
are o inches high, and afford a mulch if the soil be
light.

/•V. nch Beans. — The first sowing being well above
the soil, the produce 'of this sowing will probablj
be better than that of the earlier sowings, the cold
three weeks ago haviug had an injurious effect on
those. Sowings of Beans should be made every
fortnight, in order lo keep up a full supply of
pods. Let advancing row '"' moulded up similarly
to Teas.

Asparagus. Tin' beds should be cut over daily,
the heads being sorted into first, second, aud sprue,
and the butt-ends stood in pans coutaiuing wafer.
])n not wash Asparagus to free it from grit, as by
su doing it soon spoils.

Mird, Tarratjon. — Increase the stock by pulling up
youug pieces haviug roots, and dibbling them iu at
a distance of 8 inches apart on prepared beds, and
in a few weeks a good supply may be obtained,
while the roots will be found excellent for forcing
auother year. Seeds of Sweet Basil, pot-Marjoram,
and other tender herbs, may now be sown iu a
sunny spot, giving the beds a fine tilth, the seeds
being minute.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Strugnell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

Strawberries. — In order to obtain good results,
the gardener must afford water almost daily, and
in bright weather twice or oftener a day to plants
that are stood on shelves near the glass. The size
of the fruits may be increased by the use of clear
guano-water once a day, or by the use of an
artificial manure in powder once a week. If the
Strawberry-pots arc stood upon a layer of turf with
the grassy side reversed, the need to apply water Id
the plants will be less, while suitable plant-food
will be afforded. The varieties James Veitch and
Auguste Xicaise. possessing large fruits, should have
these thinned to seven or nine on a plant, which
should be supported on forks made of Birch twigs
above the heads of the leaves, this being seen to in
good time. An orchard-house is a very suitable
place for the plants at this part of the season, and
failing this convenience, a brick-pit maybe utilised.
Red-spider has given a good deal of trouble this
season ; but owing to the increase of sunlight, it is
now easier to deal with by means of clean water
applied regularly twice a day with the syringe till
colour shows in the fruits, when it must be discon-
tinued. The latest batch of plants that have set
their blooms may be infested with aphides, in which
case they should be dipped into an insecticide, or
fumigated or vaporised. Vaporising is the more
expedient method when the plants are many, and
the house or pit is suitable. If but few plant are
infested, these may, unless rooted into the turf-
layer, be taken into a small house or frame for
vaporising or fumigation. An occasional syringing
with Quassia-water will avert an attack of aphis
by rendering the leaves distasteful to them. If

the stock of plants is insufficient to meet the
demaud, carefully lift young fruiting plants out-
doors after affording them water, and having potted
them, afford shade, and keep moderately close for
a few da) s.

Young Vines in Pots.— Those Vines which are
being prepared for fruiting next year will need
frequent and regular attention in the matter
of affording water at the root, syringing the
foliage, and giving ventilation. Every leaf should
be allowed space for full development. When
a length of cane of from 6 to 8 feet has been made,
the leading point should be nipped out, also tho
resulting new leader ; thus compelling the hitherto
dormant bud to break and take the lead. The
growth of the laterals must be checked by pinching
the new growth to one new leaf. Weakly canes
of less than 6 feet should be encouraged to make
further growth by affording them once a week
water in which Peruvian guano is dissolved at tho
rate of one ounce to one gallon of water. Farm-
yard liquid manure may be used in lieu of guano
if diluted to a safe strength, aud it may be used
alternately with clear water. The degree of
syringing should be modified to suit local condi-
tions; in small houses iu which red -spider usually
puts in an early appearance, syringing at least
one a day will benefit the plants ; in larger
structures' with floors and border-surfaces kept
well and regularly moistened, syringing may often
be dispensed with without risk of any attack from
red spider.

Young Vines raised from eyes this year will be
ready for shifting into larger pots, aud iu the case
of Vines to be permanently planted next spring,
pots of 9 inches iu diameter will be large enough,
and the same size will answer for those to be cut
back next autumn aud grown on another year for
fruiting in pots. For planting and inarching
purposes, very large pots are not desirable. The
inarching of Viues may be performed at any time
during the season of rapid growth. A good union
can often \«- effected iu one. two, aud three-year-
old Nines by inarching green shoots. For pot-
\ itM s turfy loam of good quantity, roughly broken,
a small proportion of decayed horse-dung, a few
half inch bones, a little artificial Vine-manure, and
Bome burnt refuse, make a capital potting compost.
The pots used should be new or quite clean ones ;
and the soil pressed into them with a moderate
degree of firmness, and it should be in a condition
neither too wet nor too dry.

Th< Early Vinery. — The fruit is now ripe or
approaching ripeness, and the air should be kept
comparatively dry, and constant ventilation
afforded by day, more or less in amount in accord-
ance with the weather and the prevailing wind ;
the admission of much air when an easterly or
northerly wind is blowing, soon showing ill-effects
in an attack of red-spider. The borders should
not be allowed to suffer any lack of moisture. A
trilling amount of air may be admitted at night
by the top sashes ; aud, till we get warm weather,
mild artificial heat must be furnished. Ventilation
li\ means of the front sashes assists the colouring
of the fruit ; but it should be given carefully in
warm weather, aud with slightly warmed pipes — a
little may be left on at night with certain advan-
tage iu the matter of colouring and bloom. Where
syringing is practised during the growing season,
this must now be discontinued. If Madresfield
Court Muscat occupies a part of the vinery, and it
is feared that cracking of the berries will ensue,
apply a strawy mulch in order to arrest evapora-
tion from the border. Outside borders are the
better for being covered with corrugated iron, or
wooden shutters, but in any case afford them
enough water. A heavy application of water to a
dry border is sure to produce split berries in
Madresfield Court Grape, as will also the sun act-
ing suddenly on a humid atmosphere iu the early
morning. Slight shading will help to minimise
this evil where it commonly occurs. If red-spider
take possession of the foliage, the only sure remedy
is sp nging the leaves, although sulphur may be
applied to the leaves by means of a distributor.

Botanical Wall - Diagrams. — From tin'
Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, we
have received a specimen of their wall-diagrams
inteuded for class teaching iu school-rooms, for
which they are well suited, and would be still more
so if they were of large) ize

358

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 3, 1899.

APPOINTMENTS FOR JUNE.

TUESDAY, June
WEDNESDAY, Jube

J

Scottish Horticultural Association

Meet.
National Amateur Gardeners' Asso-

[ ciatiou Meet.

h, I Royal
' I Fete.

Botanic Society, Floral

FRIDAY,
SATURDAY,

TUESDAY, June 33-

AVEDNKSDAY, Ji'NB 14

THURSDAY,
FRIDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY,
FRIDAY,

SATURDAY,
TUESDAY,

{Essex Horticultural Show, at
Epping (2 days).
Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.
June 10— Royal Botanic Society Meet.

Royal Horticultural Society Com-
mittees.
National Rose Society, Committee

Meeting.
Royal Horticultural Society of Ire-
land, Meeting.
Cambridge Horticultural Society,
Exhibition.
(Grand Yorkshire Gala at York (3
I days).

1 Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show
\ at Launceston (2 days).
June 16 — Liunean Society, Meeting.
June 16— Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

trW iu \ Royal Agricultural Society "s Show
j une iy j at Majdst01ie (5 days)-

tm*tt^ on I Royal Oxfordshire Horticultural
JUNE-U\ Society's Show.

June 21

WEDNESDAY, Jim 2

THURSDAY, Ji N£ 20

FRIDAY,

( Rose Show at Shankltn, Isle of
\ Wight.
June 23— Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

/Windsor Rose and Horticultural
Juke :m show.

V Royal Botanic Society, Meeting,
j 0-/Royal Horticultural Society Coin.

"' \ mittce (special prizes for Roses).
Richmond Horticultural Society,

Exhibition.
York Florists", Exhibition of Roses.
Rose and Horticultural Shows at
Bath, Maidstone, Reading, Croy-
don, and Ryde, I.W.
Annual Dinner of the Gardeners'

Royal Benevolent Institution.
Royal Horticultural Society of Ire-
land, Exhibition.
Sutton Rose and Horticultural

Show.
Rose Shows at Canterbury, Elthain,
and Norwich.
Juke y0— Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

TUESDAY,

SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

fSale of Greenhouse and Bedding-

I plants at Mill Ash Nurseries.
June l)< Dufheld Road, Derby, by order of

I Mr. F. Lewis, by Protheroe &

V. Moiris.

/ Palms, Perns, Greenhouse-plants,
Gladioli, .Japanese Lilies, &c, at

( Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.
, . , | Imported and Established Orchids,
June j ^ flt protntrue & Morris' Rooms.

WEDNESDAY, Jink

FRIDAY,

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period May 21 to May 27, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

1399.

i

is

Pei

o

g

e

$

&

Temperature of
the Air.

Hi

<

h.

£

<

«

Tempera-
ture OF THE

Soil at 9 a.m.

o
h
a
p

At 9 a.m.

t-'

<
Q

■a

H

a
o

&

to

o
*2

<

ri,

"1

C 17]

a a

■3
m

3

m

+3

tn

2

£

=

►J

deg.

deg. deg. deg.

ins.

deg. deg.

deg. deg.

Sun. 21

w.

58-5 53-S59-G.I2-1

0-07

56-954-3

.01 - 2 4!r3

Mon. 22

N.E.

52-9 52-2 59-2

40" 7

0-03

57-654-5

01 '4

49-5

Tues. 23

SSff.

59-0 54-5|6S-V

n-r.

0-03

55-1:54-1

51-6

33-4

Wed. 24

S.S.W.

569

52-061-0

49-9

0-06

55-854-3

51-8

45-5

Thu. 25

N.N.E.

17 "J

44-552-2

46-9

55-8 54-5

.1 -

46-7

Fri. 26

N.N.E.

47- c.

41-851-1

34-7

52-8

54-1

51-9

26-6

Sat. 27

N.N.E.

49-3

42-7 1.3' 1

35-9

Tot.
0-19

51-4

_
55-1

53-2
54-1

519

51-7

28-5

MEAN3...

...

53'2

48-4 57-1

44-4

39'9

Remarks.— The weather during the past week has been dull,
with strong, cold winds.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 597°.
Actual Temperatures : —

London.— May 31 (12 p.m.) : Max. 75' ; Min. 43'.
Provinces.— May 81 (6 p.m.): Max. 65*, East Counties;
Min. 53°, Aberdeen.

Fine, Warm,

The Temple
Show.

This great exhibition, which re-
presented the high-water mark of
cultivation, opened on Wednes-
day under the most satisfactory conditions as
regards weather. The show itself was of the
usual character, little or no alteration being
observable in the general arrangements. While
we have not observed any very striking
novelty, the quality of the exhibits was fully up
to if not beyond the average, and many sub-
jects, which merely fill up space without any
special purpose beyond advertising the ex-
hibitor, were conspicuous by their absence. The
setting-up of the exhibits was generally excellent,
though overcrowding was still observable.

As last year, there were no announcements
upon unsightly cards that particular exhibits
had been grown from Messrs. So and So's seeds
or with Messrs. So and So's manures ; and cards
announcing the name and address of the
exhibitor even, were not permitted to exceed
84 square inches. The effect obtained by the
imposition of these regulations is altogether
satisfactory, for at many exhibitions outside the
Royal Horticultural Society, not only is the
general view of the show rendered less artistic
by the obtrusion of advertisement cards, but
some of the exhibits are partially obscured by
them.

In consequence of the greater demand made
upon the available space each year, and the
impossibility of increasing that space, it was
found necessary to exclude from this season's
show all exhibits of table decorations, bouquets,
vases of arranged flowers, and other florists'
specialties.

Doubtless, some of the ladies especially have
noted the omission of such exhibits with some
disappointment, but if anything has to be sacri-
ficed, it would be difficult to suggest the par-
ticular items that would please everybody. And
it is very essential that new exhibitors of plants,
flowers, fruits, and vegetables should be given
every encouragement possible.

The collections of hardy shrubs, deciduous
and other, were very beautiful, particularly one
exhibited by Messrs. Fishek, Son & Sibray.
A collection of hardy Bamboos, from Messrs.
Veitch, and from Messrs. Paul & Son,
Cheshunt, are noticeable in this connection.

In the tents, the exhibits were so numerous
and so excellent, that it is difficult to par-
ticularise, and tho detailed report in another
column will furnish the curious reader with
ample details. The Begonias of Messrs.
T. S. Wake were specially noteworthy ; the
Roses of Messrs. William Pail it Sons,
and of Messrs. Paul & Son of Cheshunt,
Mount of Canterbury, and Turner of Slough,
attracted the attention of visitors, as also
the splendid groups of foliage and flower-
ing plants shown by Messrs. Veitch. The
Caladiums from the same exhibitors, and
by Messrs. Peed, Laing, and others were also
admired. M. Van Waveren, of Haarlem,
showed a group of Astilbes, which illustrate the
great variety there is now in these beautiful
plants. Messrs. Sutton's Nemesias, and
Messrs. Carter's Calceolarias are worthy of
special notice. The Ghent Azaleas of Messrs.
Cuthbert, Russell, and others, formed one of
the most brillant attractions of the show, and
Messrs. Jackman's Clematis showed what pro-
gress is being made in hybridising and selecting.
Orchids as usual form one of the leading
features of the show, and were bewildering in
their numbers and beauty. Continental exhi-
bitors, such as M. Linden, and M. Jules Hye,
honoured us with their presence, and indicated

the excellence of cultivation and of selection of
varieties that long experience has led us to
exjieet.

As to Ferns, it is sufficient to mention the
collections of Messrs. Birkenhead, May, and
Hill, to show how well these lovely plants were
represented.

Fruit and vegetables were excellently shown.
Peas in pots, Tomatos, and Asparagus, were
remarkably good. Messrs. Rivers showed
wonderful fruit-trees in pots, Messrs. Bunyard
had a remarkable collection of Apples, and the
exhibits of Messrs. McIndoe, Fife, and others,
worthily represented British horticulture.

Linnean Society of London. — May 4,
1899.— Mr. A. D. Michael, F.L.S., Vice-President,
in the Chair. Mr. I. H. Burkili. exhibited speci-
mens of a Daisy (Bellis perenuis), found at Kew, in
which the ray of the outer florets was so nearly
absent that these consisted of scarcely more than
ovary, naked style, and stigma. A paper by Mr.
Georoe West on "Variation in Desmids " was
read. The Desinidieas were shown to be morpho-
logically specialised, and to exhibit a marked
pattern and symmetry of form, major and minor
symmetries being recognisable in many species.
Variations in form and symmetry were specially
dealt with, and a summary given of all that is
known concerning the variation in the cell-contents,
and in the conjugation of these plants. Observa-
tions were also made on the variability of the
pyreuoids and moving corpuscles in the genus
Closteriuin. The author's conclusions were as
follows :— (1) The structure of the cell-contents is
one of the most constant features exhibited by a
species, but one of little classiticatory value, owing
to the large number of species which possess the
samo structure and arrangement of the chromato-
phores. (2) The outward form of the cell, as seen
in front view, varies within certain limits, which
are usually very small, but which may in excep-
tional cases be considerable. The form of the
vertical view is, as a rule, a more constant feature
than the form of the front view. (3) The ornamen-
tation of the cell-wall is relatively constant, being
always arranged according to a definite law, which
is only transgressed by variations in one or more of
the individual component groups which constitute
the pattern of arrangement. (4) The prolific growth
and rapid division of immense numbers of Desmids
have a tendency to produce variations from the
typical forms. (5) Slight changes in the conditions
of environment cannot effect the characters of a
species, unless they act for long periods of time.
Some remarks were added on inter-relationships of
the Desmidiese, deduced from a study of their
variation, aud certain species supposed to possess a
close affinity were shown to have arisen along very
different lines of evolutionary development. The
paper concluded with a general accouut of the
evolution of the genera of Desmids. Critical
remarks were made by Mr. A. W. Bennett, F.L.S.

The last meeting of the Society was

held on Thursday, June 1, at S p.m., when
the followiug Papers were read. — Mr. F. N.
Williams, F.L.S. : On some Caryophyllacea; from
Sze-chuen, with a note on the recent botanical
exploration of that province. Sir John Lubbock,
Bart., M.P., F.R.S., F.L.S. : On some Australasian
Collembola. Exhibitions. — Mr. W. B. Hemsley,
F.R.S., F.L.S. : High-level plants illustrated by
the collections made by Sir W. Martin Conway,
Mr. Edward Whymfer in the Andes, and Dr.
Sven Hedin in North Tibet. Mr. Kupert Val-
lentin, F.L.S. : Lantern-slides and photographs of
Sea-Elephant, Macrorhinus leoninus, obtained in
Stanley Harbour, Falkland Islands, in February,
1899.

The Queen's Eightieth Birthday was cele-
brated at Carlisle by the planting by the Mayor
of a fine specimen of Tsuga Merteusiana, known in
many gardens as Abies Albertiana, one of the most

Supplement tc 'The Gardeners Chronicle,'' June 3, 1899.

Gymnogramma schizophylla var. gloriosa prolifera.

[Hort. Birkenhead:,

POLYSTICHUM ANGULARE VAR. DIVISILOBUM PLUMOSISSIMUM.

{Hort. Birkenhead.)

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SELENIPEDIUM MACROGHILUM GIGANTEUM GRANDE

-Tune 3, 1S99.)

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

ornamental of Conifers. The tree was presented
by Mr. Watt, wlio on various other occasions has
contributed in like manner to the adornment and
wholesomeness of the city. A telegram was sent
to Her Majesty notifying the fact of the planting
of the tree.

Children's Play-grounds.— A very excellent

work is that of providing playgrounds for the
youngsters, where the freehold of an "open space "
cannot be obtained. There are several such, we
believe, in or about the Metropolis, and we are pleased
to learn that a deputation from the London Playing
Fields Committee, at the Passmore Edwards' Settle-
ment, Tavistock Place, W.C., are invited to discuss
the best means of providing extra open-space
accommodation for the children of St. Pancras.
Mrs. Humphrey Brown intimated that she wished
to provide space in order that a thousand children
might be able to play cricket and other games.
For that purpose she would willingly give £500,
and two of her friends a like amount. Steps will
be taken at once to utilise this liberal offer — to
which we wish all success.

A Conspectus of the Genus Lilium.— To
the April number of the Botanical Gazette (Chicago),
our esteemed correspondent, Professor WATJGH,
contributes the first part of a monograph of the
genus Lilium. Sixty-four species are enumerated.
The classitication is much the same as that of
Baker, given in our columns in 1871, with the
addition of a new subgenus, called Pseudo-Mar-
tagon, including seven North American species,
with paniculate inflorescence, and mostly erect or
spreading flowers, funnel-shaped perianth, with
segments slightly recurved at the lip, or finally
recurved from the middle. Mr. WAUOH does not
appear to have seen Mr. Elwks' superb monograph
— at least, lie does not ijuote the tine illustrations
therein given.

SPRAYING: " HOW TO SPRAY, WHEN TO

Spray, and what Pumps to Use." — When

taking our inspiration from the United States, we
did our best to bring the subject under the notice
of our growers. We experienced a great amount of
apathy, not only among cultivators, but also among
advertisers. It was long before we were able to
tell our readers where to get the substances
recommended, and where to procure the necessary
apparatus, and this in spite of the fact that our
Hop-growers had long found out the value of the
process. Now we can refer our readers to a trade
catalogue issued under the above title by Mr.
Cecil Hooper, of Swanley, Kent. We believe
that the StrawsonJCompany, Messrs. White, and
Messrs. Merryweather also supply spray-pumps.

A National Flower.— Our good cousins on
the other side of the Atlaulie have not yet decided
what flower is to be their national symbol. The
matter is discussed not only in the lay press but iu
the Transaction* of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society, and as a general result it seems that the
only flower which fulfils all the requirements of the
case is the Columbine. Some Aster, in which the
stars and stripes might with a little "make-
believe " be symbolised, would, to our thinking, be
more appropriate than the Columbine ; but it is
not for us to interfere in so personal a matter. How
long, we wonder, was it before the Rose was
generally adopted as an English emblem ?

JADOO FOR TOMATOS.— Whilst the reports
we receive from India and the Colonies are
variable in their teuor, the Channel Islands Tomato-
growers speak highly of its value for their purposes.
It seems to favour the production of roots.

^ECIDIUM GROSSULARI/E.— A short time since
we figured "the cluster-cups" which affect the
Gooseberry, but we omitted to state that according
to the experiments of Klebahn, this is a form of
the same fungus that appears on certain Sedges, and
is known under the name of Puccinia Pringsheim-
iana. The appearance of the two forms is so utterly
different, that cultivators may well have doubts as

to the correctness of the statement. Nevertheless,
it has been proved by infection-experiments in so
many cases, that no reasonable doubt can now be
entertained. The Puccinia ribis, which grows on
the Red-Currant, forms one kind of spore only,
the teleutospore, and hence does not occur in two
such distinct forms as in the Gooseberry fungus,
though a specialised form occurs in the Red-
Currant, but not on the Black-Currant. M.
Eriksok, who has lately published a paper on the
subject in the Revue Giniralt de Botanique, tome x. ,
p. 497, recommends that all diseased leaves and
berries be burnt in the autumn as far as possible,
and that in spring the bushes be sprayed with
Bordeaux Mixture, and not the bushes only, but
the soil in their immediate vicinity.

Abnormal Pear Blossom.— Mr. Basil has
sent us a terminal shoot of a Pear, iu which, in-
termixed with long-stalked leaves, are peduncles
bearing green flowers of a peouliar structure. The
" Pear" proper is absent, but there are five leafy
sepals in a whorl, a number of leafy petals and
stamens more or less spirally disposed, and in the
centre a secondary flower with five ordinary sepals,
as many petals, and several stamens, but no pistils.
Such flowers have naturally no interest for the
fruit-grower, but they afford valuable evidence to
the botanist studying the real nature of the flower.

Presentation to the Rev. F. D. Horner,

V.M.H.— On Saturday, May 27, the members of
the Bradford Paxton Society paid a visit to the
famous Tulip-garden of the Rev. F. D. Hokner,
Greta House, Burton-in-I.onsdale. The kindness
with which they always have been received, and
the respect which is entertained for Mr. Horner,
led the members to ask his acceptance of a Smoker's
Cabinet. On arrival, the party were welcomed by
Mr. and Mrs. Horner, the presentation being
made by the President, Mr. A. E. Benney, and
brief speeches were made by Councillors E. E.
Dowsosr, T. A. Williamson, and H. M. Trotter.
Subsequently, an inspection of the garden was
mado, Mr. Horner explaining the evolutioos of the
Florist Tulip. Unfortunately, the season has been
adverse, aud the flowers were not far enough
advanced as to show their full beauty.

Henry Shaw Medal, St. Louis, Missouri.

— The Director of the Missouri Botanical Garden
desires us to call attention to the fact that in June,
1S93, the board of trustees of the Gardeu, founded
a gold medal to be known as " The Henry Shaw
Medal for the introduction of a valuable plant,"
and to be awarded each year, when practicable, for
a new. plant of value for cultivation exhibited in
St. Louis, as a part of the premiums or prizes to a
flower-show or exhibition provided for in the will
of the late Henry Shaw ; provided that the judges
or other persons making awards at such exhibition
shall certify that said medal is "awarded for a
plant of decided merit for cultivation, not pre-
viously an article of North Americau commerce,
and introduced to such commerce by the exhibitor
during the year in which said award is made."
Numerous plants worthy of the award of this
medal are each year introduced into the American
trade, and the undersigned will at any time gladly
furnish detailed information to their introducers,
as to the time of holding the flower-show at which
they may be exhibited in competition for the
medal. This year the medal will be offered as a
pirt of the premiums placed in the hands of the
St. Louis Florists' Club for award at their Annual
Chrysanthemum Show, to be held in St. Louis,
November 14 to 18, 1S99. William Trelease, St.
Louis, Mo.

Edinburgh Field Naturalists' Micro-
scopical Society.— The members of this Society
had a bryological excursion on Saturday, May 20,
to the woods round Corstorphine Hill, under the
guidance of Mr. Alister Murray. About forty
species were collected, but none of any rarity.
Corydalis claviculata was got plentifully, and in
flower, at the same station recorded by Greville

in the beginning of tEe" centufyT Carduus hetero-
phyllus was found also in quantity, with the root-
leaves fully developed, and this would seem to be a
new station for it in the Lothians. The melan-
choly Thistle is the "Cluas au f heidh " of the
Highlanders, which is said by some to have
been the original badge of the House of Stuart,
instead of the Cotton-Thistle. The party returned
by the village of Corstorphine, visiting the old
church of St. John the Baptist, which was built in
1429, and the famous "Corstorphine Plane." This
tree is a remarkable variety of Acer pscudo pla-
tanus, and the last of a double line of Plane-trees
that once formed the avenue leading to the old
castle of Corstorphine. "Corstorphine Plaucs '
are greatly in demand by nurserymen, their chief
characteristic being the striking colour of the young
leaves in early spring ; they have a rich, glittering
yellow, so unlike the usual colour of the leaves of
this species that they attract attention from a
great distance by the beauty and strangeness of
their tint. The tree has also the glamour of tragedy
about it, for it was under it on the night of
August 20, 1679, that James, Lord Forrester,
was killed by his niece, an act for which she was
beheaded at the cross of Edinburgh.

West Australia.— Mr. E. J. Scammell has

been appointed travelling representative of the
Agent-General for West Australia, and lecturer on
the condition and resources of the colony. The
office of the agency is at 15, Victoria Street,
Westminster, S. W.

Abnormal Tulip.— Mr. G. Claridge Dim i i:
sends us a curious Tulip. From the side of the old
bulb arises, parallel to the main axis, a secondary
shoot about 3 cent, long, surrounded at the base by
sheathing scales. At its apex it bears a long fleshy
sheath, o to 7 cent, long, of a rosy-violet colour,
split down on one side at the base to expose a
thick, ovoid, acute bulbil, and prolonged at the
apex into a long decurved point. The colour of
this long sheath suggests an analogy with a
perianth segment. The enclosed bulbil is terminal,
about 25 mill. long, euwrapped by the fleshy
sheath. The latter is burst open at the base by
the pressure exerted by the growing bulblet. It
would seem as if this were a precociously-formed
lateral bulb, raised on a stalk, and with sheathing-
scales of unusual thickness.

Publications Received.— My Rosa, and how I ffn w
'Ihem, by Helen Milman (Mis. Caldwell Crofton), published I y
John Lane, Bodley Head, London and New York.— An Ency-
clopcedia of Gardening, by T. W. Sanders (London, W. H. &
L. Collingridge, Aldersgatc Street).— landscape Gardening as
applied to Home Decoration, by Samuel T. Maynard (New
York, John Wiley & Sons; London, Chapman <fc Hall).— -1"-
rnial Rtpbtt of the Smithsonian Institution, to July, 1897
(Washington, Government Printing Office).— £es Plantes UtiUs
du St negal, jar Lc R. P. A. Sebire (Paris, Librairie, J. 11.
Baithere et Fils, et chez l'Auteur, a Thies, Senegal).— The
Surrey Magazine, May, 1899, edited by James Cassidy (pub-
lished at 61, High Street, Guildford; High Street, Epsom;
and 5, Pilgrim Lane, Ludgate Hill, Londou), contains au
illustrated account of Ham House, and papers on Surrey
Cricket and Surrey Reptiles ; and last, but not least, the in-
troductory portion of some Notes "ii Surrey Gardening. —
Travel, edited by Henry S. Lunn, M.D., April, 1899, with
articles on Our World's Cycling Commission ; Up the Mac-
kenzie River to the Polar Sea, Iceland ; Famous Travellers uf
To-day, and many other appropriate subjects.— Information
Gazelle, Oxford, June, 1899 (VoL II., No. 3), with papers on the
" Educational System of Queensland," " Rome in Restoration,
1899;" "Agricultural Colleges," &c— The West-End (Norfolk
Street, W.C.), May 17.— Agricultural Gazette if New Sonth
Wcdes, April ; this includes, among many other topics, Notes
upon the Cultivation of Onions and Rape in the United States,
J. H. Bulkeley ; Edible Trees and Shrubs of the West fiogan,
R. W. Peacock ; and Native Food-plants (Part 11.), J. H.
Maiden — Annu.d Report on the Botanical Garden, Saint
Lucia, 1898. Satisfactory, though mentioning losses sus-
tained from a hurricane on September 11. — Report of the
Go eernment Botanist and Curator of tin: rope Government Her-
barium, for 1S98 ; mentioning many new acquisitions.—
Bulletin of the Botanical Department, Jamaica, April, 1899,
edited by William Fawcett. — Tropical Agriculturist, April,
1899.— From the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Potato
Diseases and their Treatment, by B.T.Galloway; New Spray,
ing Devices, by B. T. Galloway ; and Curing and Fermentation
of Cigar-leaf Tobacco, by Oscar Lcew. — Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station, Bulletin, No. 54: Spraying Apple-trees,
with Special Reference to Apple-scab Fungus. — Purdue Agricul-
tural Experiment Station, Bulletin No. 69; Insecticides

360

THE GARDENERS9 CHRONICLE.

[June 3, 1S99.

Fungicides, and Spraying.— Hatch Experiment Station of the
Massachusetts Agricultural College, Bnlktin, No. 61 : Aspa-
ragus-rust in MassacJiitsetts.—'Erythfa, May. Contents: — Notes
on Cyanophycea^, by W." A. Setchell, Washington Botanical
Club. — Medians' Monthly, May, with description and coloured
plate ot Calluna vulgaris. — Journal de la SocieU Rationale
d' Horticulture de France : Congr&s Horticole del899, Memuires
PreKminaires (Paris, 84, Rue de Grenelle).— BuWefin. de la
SocieU Boianique de France. — Bid Id in d' Arbor ictdtvue, dc
Floricultufe, et de Culture Potagere May.— J.c Chrysanthevie,
May. — Surla Ciilturedes Monstrosites, by M. Hugo de Vries.
—Botanische Zeitung, M.3.yl6.—B}tanischesCentrablatt1~B&nd7S,
No. 9. — Ueber Ourvenseltction bei Chrysanthemum Segetum, by
Hugo de Vries. Special Reprint from the Transactions of the
German Botanical Society.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Acacia longifolia, vah. SophoRjE, Revue de VHortutd-
turt Beige, May.

A> Ar.vinA Chantrieri, a form with ovate acuminate green
leaves, edged with white, Remit Horticote, May 1.

Ampelopbis Graehneri, apparently a highly-coloured form
of the common Virginian Creeper, GarUnflora, May 15.

Apple Reinette de Caux, Moniteivrd'HortictUfitre, April 10.

SELENIPEDIUM MACROCHILUM
GIGANTEUM GRANDE.

The illustration in our supplement this week
was drawn for us by Mr. Worthington Smitli at
the meeting of tbe Royal Horticultural Society
on May 16, but we were not fortunate euougli to
be able to examine the plant at close quarters. It
seems as if the dorsal sepal was absent, the anterior
one (of two united) is broad at the base, and
tapering at the apex into a long point ; the two
lateral petals are also prolonged into long, twisted,
ribbon-like tails ; the third petal of this series is
the lip, which presents its usual character. Within
this outer series there appear to be other three long-
tailed segments, which may be representatives of
the outer three stamens, which, in Cypripedium,
are usually abortive. The column we had no
opportunity of inspecting. Whether this inter-
pretation of the flower be correct or not, there is
no question as to its ornamental character. The
hybrid lias as its parents C. grande and S. caudatum
Lindeni ; and it was shown by Messrs. J. Veitch &
Sons, Chelsea.

SOCI ETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

The Temple Show.
M w 31, and June 1 and 2.

The great animal event of the horticultural world in London
took place in the Gardens of the Inner Temple, lent as usual
by the Benchers with kindly courtesy to the Society.
Fortunately, the weather was gloriously tine and warm, and
everything went off most satisfactorily, the visitors arriving
in great numbers late in the afternoon of the lirst day. The
arrangements made by the officials were so good that there
was an entire absence of grumbling, ami the thanks of the
community are due to the authorities for the smoothness
with which the great function was conducted. For a general
survey of the display as a whole, we would refer our readi i i
to p. 35?.

Among those who visited the show on the first day were
H.U.H. The Duke and Duchess of Con naught, Lady Plowden,
the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Countess of Warwick,
and Sir A. Arbuthnot.

Orchid Committee.

Present: Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the chair; and Messrs.
Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), W. H. Young. W. H. Protheme,
H. J. Chapman, De B. Crawshay, T. W. Bond, W. Thompson,
G. W. Law-£choneld, W. II. White, C. Winn, A. H. Smee,
A. Outram, H. M. Pollett, II. Baliantme, J. T. Gabriel,
F. Mason, T. Statter, E. Ashworth, W. Cobb, G. Bhoiland
Ball, E. Hill, F. Sander, II. T. Pitt, W. 13. Latham, S. Cour-
tauld, and It. Brooman White. For Awards see separate
list,

It is difficult to strike a comparison between the shows of
one year and another, but the general opinion was that the
show of Orchids staged at the present show was the best
which has ever be^n staged at the Temple, and that ex-
perience had taught the exhibitors to make a more effective
display with their plants than formerly, all the groups being
well arranged, some of them even artistically; an uniform
setting of small Maidenhair Ferns, Asparagus plumosns, A.

Sprengeri, &c, playing an important part in combining the
whole in an effective display.

On one side of the central stage Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart, (gr., Mr. W. H. White), arranged by far Hie iinest group
in the show, and perhaps the best which has ever been shown
from the Burford Gardens, every plant in it beiDg good, and
the whole carefully arranged. Of the taller plants in the
back rows, two elegant specimens of Vacda teres, each with
about three dozen flowers, showed that fine old Orchid at its
best. Arranging well with them were specimens of the white
TJiunia Marshalliana, with a score or so spikes ; the dark
rose T. Bensoniae, with a similar number ; the best form of it
being T. B. superha, with very large rose-purple flowers.
Among others of the taller specimens noted as remarkable were
a tine Sobralia macrantha alba, with three snow-white flowers,
and several buds ; Fpidendrum prismatocarpum with nine

toglossums were some remarkable forms of O. crispum, both
white and blotched forms, the best of the former being O. c,
xanthotes, " Burford variety," a pure white, with pale yellow
callus ; a pretty purple-blotched O. Pescatorei, and good
examples of most of the other showy species, many of them
having been grown at Burford for many years. Among other
remarkable plants were a fine De»drobium Falconeri, D.
nobile nobilius, D. Victoria Regina, some magnificent
Miltonia vexillaiia, a grand example of PhahTnopsis
amabilis, Masdevallia Harryana regal is, with twenty- two
flowers; M. H. miniata, with forty brilliant blooms;
Catasi'tum x splendens olivaceum, some fmeLa?1ia purpurata,
L. X Phrebe, L. Cowani, Ladio-Cattlpya x eximia and X Can-
hamiana, and the charming and rare Cymbidium tigrinum,
with twenty-three flowers. A small group in the centre, com-
posed of rare and pretty butanical species, were interesting to

Fl<i. 126. — InK'BLE BEGONIA "JESSIE POPE" : FLOWER OF REAL SIZE; COLOUR t'ALE PINK.
(Exhibited at the Temple Show by Mr, T. S. Ware. See List of Awards.)

spikes, E. WWlisii, E. < Etifeesta-Wallisu, E. x elegautulum

leucochiluin, K. Sehomburgki, and olhtr tall Epldendrums,
Oneidiums, &c. The < \ittle.yas represented were of the best,
the varieties of C. Mossite including a grand plant, of the pure

white C. M. Wagneri with eleven flowers, I tin- finest

specimens of white Catlleya ever produced ; C. M. Goossens-
iana, a charming blii.-h. white flower with the most vivid
violet-tinted crimson lip, having a distinct blush-white
margin; and other Into forms such as C. M. Reineckiana.
The forms "I C. Mendeli were equally good, the best perhaps
being C. M. burfonliensis, a blush-white flower of" perfecl t, mi
with rosy-crimson lip. The many Cypripcdiums were remark-
able for their handsome foliage, as well as for their fine flowers.
Among them were grand examples of C. X Fowlerianum,
" Burford variety ;" the best type of C. Lawrenceanum, still
one of the must stately species; C. x superciliare, C. X
Swanianum superbum, C. Hookerianum Volonteanum, C. x
Eleanor, C. granduhteruin, &c. Among the many good Odon-

the more advanced students of Orchid lore. Among them
wnr Hasdevallia O'Brieniana, M. caudata xanthocorys, M. x
Gelcngiana, M. Wendlandiana, M. bieroglyphica, Polystachya
i'Kieii ns.i, P. Lnwrenceana, a little beauty, with pale rose
labellum ; P. zambesiaca, P. bulbophylloides, Campanemia
uliginose, ;t tiny plant, with racemes of small white flowers ;
Saccolabium gemmatum, Reslrepia trichoglossa, and a pretty
yellow and red species near to II. elegan.s ; Habenaria rhodo-
cheila, Physosiphou Loddigesil, the rare natural hybrid
Qncidiura x Larkinianum, Bulbopliyllum barbigernm, B.
elegans, and Ornithocephalus grandiflorus with six spikes.

Npxt came a group of about twenty grand Odontoglossums,
set up with the scarlet Cochlioda Noezliana, sent by W.
Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone, Staffs., staged with
the usual skill displayed by his gardener, Mr. W. Stevens.
All were good, and specially line were Odontoglossum eris-
pum Arthur Briscoe, a finely-formed, blotched flower; <>
Coradinei Waltonensis, and O. x C. Roeblingi, both pretty,
and showiDg the two extremes of the many forms. O.

Junk .% 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

361

triumphans King Alfred, a very finely-shaped flower, with
yellowish-white ground colour, blotched with tawny-brown ;
O. X Andersouianum albo-maculosum, a large, white flower,
spotted with reddish-purple; a noble plant of O. luteo-
purpureum with two spikes, one of forty-three, and the other
of thirteen flowers. All the other plants were also superbly
grown, and of fine quality.

Adjoining was a very pretty and tastefully-ai ranged group,
sent by Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen
(gr., Mr. W. H. Young). Elevated at the back, was a fine speci-
men ofDendrobiumthyrsitlornm with ten spikes, and arranged
on each side were noble specimens of Cymbidium Lowianuni
alternating with equally tine large plants of Lffllia purpurata,
the latter having four very remarkable varieties, viz., L. p.
Arthur Wigan, L. p. Russelliana, L. 'p. Ethel Gray, and L. p.
Othello, all very tine and distinct. Other remarkable plants were
Phala-nopsis Sanderiana " Wigan's variety,' the perfection of
pure rose-pink Phahennpsis, anil one of the finest in shape of
any known PhalaenopslS ; Cymbidium Devouianum, with four
spikes; Cypripedium callosum Bandera?, with two flowers,

mannia Lehmanni, with four heavy pendent slripos of orange-
coloured flowers, forty to sixty on each raceme, and two more
spikes coming ; and a grand plant of the yellow-coloured
Anguloa Clowesii, with nineteen fine blooms, b ith securing
Cultural Commendation.

J. Rutherford, Esq., MP,, Beardwood, Blackburn, staged
a pretty group, made up principally of very remarkably tine
forms of Cattleya Mossia\ all the specimens being well grown
and well-flowered. In the centre of the group was a grand
new form of Lselio- Cattleya x Aphrodite (C. Mendeli x L.
purpurata), named L.-C. x Aphrodite "Ruth." A glorious
white flower, the tube of the lip tinged with yellow, and the
fine front lobe developed as in C. Mendeli, and exhibiting the
rich rose-crimson tint, as in good forms of that species— a
charming hybrid. Of the Cattleya Mosshe, C. M. gloriosa,
with its richly-coloured large-lipped flowers was one of the
best Mossla-s shown, and the C. M. Wagneri, ^C. M. Reinecki-
aua, and C. M. Rappaitiana, very remarkable white forms.

Walter C. Walkee, Esq., Winchmore Ilill (gr., Mr. Geo.
Cragg), staged ar. effective collection, made up of good

FlG. 127. — DOUBLE WHITE BEGONIA "M.\KY POPE " : REAL SIZ£.
(Exhibited at the Temple Show by Mr. T. S. Ware. See p. 363.)

C. bellatulum album, C. X Gcdcfroyie, hybrid, very pretty;
Cattleya Skinneri alba of the best type, C. superbum splen-
dens, C. Schilleriana, C. x Lowryana, LadioCattleya X
Sehilleriana, Odontoglossum crispum, O. x excellens, and
O. x elegantins ; Maxillaria Sanderiana, Trichopilia tortilis,
Spathoglottis Veillardi, Coalogyne Sehilleriana, Dendrobium
X polyphlebium, D. x Venus, Epidendrum Wallisii, and the
tine old E. faleatum with twelve large flowers and buds ; also
a tine Odontoglossum LErstedii, covered with flowers. Con-
tinuing, W. A. Gili.ett, Esq., Fairoak Lodge, Bishopstoke
([gr., Mr. E. Carr), staged a nice group, the main features in which
were some very fine Cattleya Mosshe, arranged with good
Odontoglossum crispum, 0. Pescatorei, and other good
Odontoglossums, Oneidiums, &c. ; in front being a very neat
and ]jraiseworthy specimen of Milton ia Phakenopsis covered
with flowers.

Next Malcolm S. Cooke, Kingston Hill (gr., Mr. Buckle),
staged a nice collection of Odontoglossums, including fine
O. crispum, O. Halli, O. Pescatorei ; also good Miltonia
vexillaria, Lffllia purpurata, Masdevallias, Cypripediums, &c.

Elevated at the back, Major Joicev, Sunuingdale Park,
Sunningdale (gr., Mr. Fred. J. Thome), exhibited two of the
best examples of tine cultivation in the show, viz., Luddc-

Cattleya Skinneri, C. citriua, and other Cattleyas ; Miltonia
vexillaria, Odontoglossum Harryanum, Dendrobium Ben-
soni;e, &c.

Next M. Jules Hve-Levsen, Coupnre, Ghent (gr., M.
Coen), had a case of very line Odontoglossums, flowered
in his usual admirable manner. The centre of attraction was
the noble plant of O. crispum augustum, lllustiated in the
Garden* rs' chronicle, May Jo, 1896, and thtn described a.-: one
of the finest of blotched crispums, a character which it well
sustains. When illustrated, the figure was said to be an
exaggeration, but, on comparison to-day, we are happy to
say it is an exact representation. Another remarkable form
was O. crispum " Perle du Congo," a blush-tinted flower of
peculiar form, the upper sepal having a distinct reddish band
up the centre, and the other sepals and petals quaintly
spotted, the latter being crimped ; several other fine forms of
O. crispum were included ; also Odontoglossum Halli
Lairesseanum, of an unifoam greenish-yellow. A fine O. x
excellens, Miltonia vexillaria Chelseiensis, Lffllio -Cattleya x
Jiippolita, with many flowers on the spike, and Lselio-
Cattleya x Mrs. Albert Hye, one of the finest and richest-
coloured forms of L.-C. X Aphrodite (Eudora).

Finishing the arrangements on that side of the tent, came a

very pretty arrangement of Orchids, set up with Ferns and
foliage-plants, sent by Messrs. Jas. Backhouse & Son of
York, remarkable being a very handsomely spotted form of
O. crispum, a tine specimen of Sobralia macrantha, and one
of S. Ameshe, Cattleya Mendeli, very fine; Cypripedium
bellatulum, Laalia tenebrosa, &c.

On the other side, Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Hollo-
way, staged an extensive group, in which were eighteen dis-
tinct forms of Cattleya Mosshe, and nearly as many of C. Men-
deli ; some fine Oncidium Marshallianum, O. Barcodes, and
O: coneolor ; a fine bit of Odontoglossum crispum, and most
of the other slmwy speiies, including O. x Edithae, a pretty
hybrid; Cafanthe veratrifolia, C. Sanderiana, Miltonia stel-
lata, Caelogyne Massangeana, Anguloa Clowesii, Dendrobium
suavissimum, and other Dendrobiums, Vanda suavis, Y. tri-
color, V. teres, a fine lot of Lselia purpurata, and a good
representative collection of the Cypripediums of the season.

Messrs. Stanlev-Mobbs & Ashton, Southgate, had an
extensive group, and one of the best arranged, the outline
being relieved by two elevated cork-work stands, the pockets
Of which contained good Odontoglossum crispum, Miltonia
vexillaria, and other Orchids, the back-row between the
stands being filled in with grand Oncidium Marshallianum,
O. sarcodes, O. varicostim, and other elegant species. In this
group the forms of Lffllia purpurata were fine ; a very remark-
able white variety (which, however, was not perfectly deve-
loped), named L. p. Ashtoni, and in the Cattleyas, C. Mossiffl
Mrs. C. H. Feiling, a very richly- coloured variety, of perfect
form, was the best. C. Mendeli " Constance," a pretty white
form was remarkable, and noteworthy were Epidendrum
hastatum, Cypripedium "Gertrude Hollington," and some
remarkably fine Lffllia tenebrosa.

Mr. Jas. Cypher, Cheltenham, had an extensive group
replete with good things, the background carried up eflec-
tively with Oncidium Marshallianum, O. sarcodes, < >. amplj.
atom, Epidendrum radicans, B. < O'Brienianuni, and other
elegant species. The forms of Lffllia purpurata and the
Cattleyas were specially good.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Ileaton, Bradford, staged
an excellent group in which the strain of Odontoglossum
ciispum said to come from a new district, was remarkable,
some of them showing excellent and distinct features.
Among the bestCattley.i Mossiffl were C. M. Reineckiana and
C. M. aurea magnillea, and the varieties of La-lia purpurata
gave as the best L. p. atro-rubens, L. p. Russelliana maxima,
and L. p. fulgens, all good. Other good things in this group
were Cypripedium X Gertrude Hollington ; the curious L.. Mi
X cinnabrosa ; Epi-Lffllia X Heatonensis (L. cinnabarina x
E. x O'Brieniana) ; Epi-Lffllla X radico-purpurata ; Yanda
tores gigantca ; Odontoglossum x Adriame ; Milton! I
vexillaria Empress Augusta Victoria ; Ladio-Cattlcya x
Hippolyta, of specially bright colour ; a fine strain of Catt leya
Schilleriana, Oncidium phyrnatochilum, Masdevallia x
Courtauldiana, and other Masdevallias.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, well furnished the
remainder of the centre stage, with one of the best and best-
arranged groups they have ever exhibited, and containing all
important plants, and no ordinary small " padding." Cattleya
Mossiffl "Beauty of Bush Hill," was a truly magnificent
richly-coloured, large flower, exhibiting a very extraordinary
veining on the sepals and petals, and a peculiar rose-purple
feather up the petals; a ren arkable exhibit. The other
forms of C. Mos: iae were of the best strain ; C. M. Wagneri,
Low's variety, of a peculiar white, with cowslip-ye'low disc.
The fine strain of Cattleya Mendeli, culminated in C. M.
Perfection, well worthy of its name, blush-white, with ruby,
crimson lip, and among the many specimens of Oncidium
anipliatum, was O. a. citrinum, totally different in colour to
the type. Lffllia purpurata in this group were also good, and
in it were fine Odontoglossums and Cypripediums, &c.

In the next tent, Messrs. F. Sander & Co., of St. Albans
and Bruges, staged a grand display, having a table some 60
feet in length, well displaying their grand strain of Odonto-
glossum crispum, which certainly have an uniformly fine
character in large well-shaped blooms, prolific in heai ily
blotched forms. The finest example of the pure white form of
this strain was enclosed in a glass case with some ornamental
foliage, and bore a grand spike of large flowers of the O. c.
Duchess type, but superior to that one. Along the tabic were
noted small groups of selected hybrids of this strain, also
excellent forms of O. x Wilckeanum, O. x Andersonianum,
and O. x Ruckerianum, some of them being profusely and
others sparsely spotted. Selecting only the most remarkable
plants, we noted a very handsome form of Sophro-Lalia x
Marriotti with clear chrome-yellow flowers ; a Sophro-Cattleya
between S. grandiflora and C, Aeklandia?, with very distinct
and pretty bright red flowers ; a new hybrid between Cattleya
Mossi&and Lffllia tenebrosa, with very handsome flowers of the
form of those of L. tenebrosa, and colours of C. Mossi.> ; a
fine strain of Cattleya Mossiie, one of the plants having six
flowers on a spike, a number perhaps not previously attained ;
a batch of the pretty Dendrobium atroviolaccum, the noble
Miltonia x Bleinma sphndons, a fine specimen of Ccelogyne
Dayana, with about fifty spikes; the favourite Cypri]
callosum Sandenc, and the pretty and still not common C.
Sanderianum, with four flowers on a spike; C. x conco-bel-
latulum,andC. X barbato-bellatulum ; the remarkable Maxil-
laria Muoreana, with quaint, large dark green flower ; good
good forms of Odontoglossum x Adriana?, a fine plant of Epi-
phronitis x Yeitchi, the singular Bulbophyllum barbigeruni,
Oncidium superbiens, a very large form of Odontoglossum
maculatum, Ltelio-Cattleya x Hippolyta, Dendrobium densi-
florum Schroderi, D. Goldiei, and some superb forms of Mil-
tenia vexillaria, &c.

Ludwio Mond, Esq., The Poplars, Avenue Road, St.

362

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 3, 1S99.

John's Wood (gr., Mr. J. O. Clark), staged a pretty and
effectively-arranged group, to which the varieties of Odonto-
glossum citrosmum gave character. The largest plant bore
four fine spikes, making it an effective centre to the group.
Some excellent Odontoglossum crispum, 0. Halli, and other
Odontoglossums, Deudrobium Devonianum, and fine Cattleyas
and Ladias, all arranged to show to the best advantage, were
remarked.

Messrs. Linden, Brussels, had a large group, remarkable
for the bewildering variations of Odontoglossums, among
which it is difficult to describe where species end and varieties
begin. Prominent were the fine forms of O. x Adrians, two
very fine ones being O. x Adrian te tigrinum, and O. x Argus ;
and associated with tbem was a very peculiar hybrid, with
prettily-spotted flowers, probably between O. Hunnewellianum
and U. odoratum. Among the large collection of forms of
Odontoglossum crispum, both white and spotted, 0. c. Miss
Linden, a prettily-formed, heavily-blotched flower, was noted
as being the best ; O. c. " The Baby," was a grand flower,
with large purple blotch in each segment. Among other
specially noteworthy varieties were O. Pescatorei Miss Otelet,
a very handsome bloom; O. x Cawenbergi, very showy;
O. triumphans "Golden King," a bloom of a clear tawny
yellowish hue ; O. x cirrho-Halli, 0. sceptrum nobilius, Mil-
tonia vexillaria Lindeniit, a noble variety, with very large
flowers, attractively veined wiih rose-pink ; M. v. Jupiter, of
a delicate rose-pink ; and a number of very singular looking
forms of O. x Wilckeanum and O x Andersonianum.

H. T. Pitt, Esq., Stamford Hill {gr., Mr. T. Thurgood),
showed Cittleya intermedia, " Rosslyn variety," which may be
described as a blush-white C. i. Parthenia— very pretty.

Walter Cobb, Esq., Dulcote, Tnnbridge Wells (gr., Mr. J.
Howes), showed Miltonii vexillaria, " Dulcote variety," the
prettiest bright dark rose form yet exhibited. Captain G. W.
Law Schofield, New-Hall-Hey, Rawtenstall (gr., Mr. Shill),
showed Lielia purpurata " Annie Louise," a beautiful, finely-
coloured flower with petals handsomely veined rose-purple.

Thos. Statter, Esq., Manchester (gr., Mr. Johnson), showed
as La?lia purpurata " Stattcriana " a similar variety ; also the
blue Dendrobium Victoria Regina. T. B. Haywood, Esq.,
Reigate (gr., Mr. C. J. Salter), showed Lielia puri urata " Mrs.
Haywood," and Cattleya Mossiie " A jax," both good. A. War-
burton, Esq., Vine House, Haslingden (gr., Mr. Lofthouse)
sent La?lia cinnabrosa. M. Jules Rauot showed Lielia X
Ragotiana (grandis x cinnabaiina), with narrow orange-
coloured flowers, several on a spike. C. L. N. Ingram, Esq.
(gr., Mr. F. W. Bond), showed L;elio-Cattleya x Amazone (C.
maxima x L, purpurata), a pretty light flower, and L. pur-
purata fulgens.

Floral Committee.

Present; Edward Mawlcy, Esq. (Chairman), and Messrs.
C. J. Salter, H. B. May, S. A. de Graaff, Chas. Jeffries, J. W.
Barr, Chas. T. Druery, R. Dean, C. Bl ck, Herbert J. Cut-
busl), John Laing, J. F, McLeod, E. Molyneux, Edwin
Beckett, J. H. Fitt, E. T. Cook, Jas. Walker, W. Howe, D. B.
Crane, J. Jennings, and R. Wilson Ker.

GROUPS.

In the tent which crosses the big one, containing Orchids
Ac, in the middle of it, Messrs. W. Fromow & Sons, Sutton
Court Nursery, Chiswick, put up a group of Japanese Acers,
in nearly all the known varieties, as small plants, varying
from \\ to ok feet. A variety named singuineum variogatum,
which was shown only in small examples, was noted as
remaikably attractive in tint, which in the young leaves is
vivid-crimson and red-purple, the youngest ones being entirely
of crimson ; A. palmatum vancgatum, A. Involutum variega*
turn, A. palmatum roseo-niarginatum, A. p. laciniatum,
A. japonicum aurcum, are the more remarkable in leaf tints,
or in the form of the leaf. The group was agreeably set oft'
by plants of the Bermuda Lily.

Messrs. Cuiprs & Sons, Nurserymen, Tuubridge Wells, had
in the same tent a group of Acers, older examples of good
varieties, but not containing novelties ; many of the varieties
showed their value as decorative plants for the cold con-
servatory, or as groups in the open, sunk in the turf or
otherwise displayed.

Mr.J. Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Surrey, placed a group
of Japanese Acers in considerable variety out-of-doors. Among
the more remarkable, were the pretty Beech with a rose-
tinted margin to the leaf (Fagus tricolor), the purple leaved
Birch, silver variegated Sweet Chestnut, a handsome variety ;
a variegated Sycamore, variegated Ivies, with small and with
large leaves ; Tree-Ivies, made so by grafting, such as Hedera
arborea dentataand others. One of his beds was filled with
plants of Viburnum Opulus macrocephalum, and V. plicatum,
one of the best, most abundantly flowered. The white and
green-leaved Euiya japonica latifolia variegata was used
effectively for an edging to th i beds. The Japanese Vibur-
nums are particularly nice as wall plants.

Messrs. Fisher, Son & Sibrav, Royal Nurseries, Hands-
worth, Sheffield, had planted out a very extensive group of
"picture-tree3 and shrubs,'' including the finest of the
Japanese Acers— A. Negundo folds variegatis, A. japoDicum
aureum. Andromeda japonica variegata, Quercus concordia,
the yellow-foliaged Oak; Cupressus macrocarpa lulea, a
variety that keeps its colour in age; Tree-Ivies in variety,
which make nice stuff for facing shrubberies, and filling beds
on the grass. These were shown in green and variegated
forms ; bssides these were Hedera canariensis Crippsii, H.
spectabilis. Silver Gem, Golden-blotched, &c. We remarked
Ilex Wilsoni, established plants of which bear leaves bigger
than those of Shepperdi ; and not like that, it is a berry-

bearing plant (First-class Certificate) ; and of Larix Kieinpferi,
the Chinese Larch, a nice example in a pot, was shown.

L'Horticole Coloniale, Ltd., Brussels, General Director
M. Lucien Linden, showed a group consisting of Hydrangea
Hortensia Mariesii, small plants, with fine heads of bloom ; H.
Hortensla, with palest lilac flowers ; H. paniculata, a well-
flowered tall standard ; Philadelphus Lemoinei Gertbe de
Neige ; Olearia stellulata, with dense cylindrical heads of
white flowers, larger than those of the well-known O. Uaasti.
The group contained, besides these, Ghent Azaleas, Azalea
mollis x sinensis N. Beets, flowers yellow and orange-crimson,
a very showy thing ; A. mollis albicans, with cream-coloured
flowers ; A. m. x sinensis Dr. Pasteur, with large corymbs of a
soft orange colour ; A. hybrida fl.-pl. Freya, a flower with a
pale yellow and pink centre, &c.

In the big tent, Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, Highgate and
Barnet, staged a very extensive group, of which pink Carna-
tions Souvenir de la Malmaison formed the middle ground-
work, dwarf plants, possessing good blooms ; isolated round
groups of mixed varieties of Carnations and of Richardia
Elliottiana stood prominently in the front, with a margin to
the whole of Adiantums. The rear of the group consisted of
Palms and Bamboos, fronted by numbers of Rose Crimson
Rambler, Hoteia astilboides, and Mollis Azaleas in some
variety. The whole was effective, as consisting of small
plants.

Messrs. Geo. Jaukman & Son, nurserymen, of Woking,
Surrey, had a fine exhibit of large, globular-trained plants of
the new hardy Clematis coccinea varieties, or rather hybrids
with that species. The flowers have much similarity as
regards shape, all being rather less closed, as in C. coccinea,
some, indeed, spreading considerably ; and the colours range
from palest flesh, through pink, to purple of various shades.
We think that these crosses form pretty decorative plants,
not offending by reason of gaudiness or great size of blossoms.
A few cut flowers of C. coccinea were shown for comparison
sake

An equal place of honour at the end of the tent was taken
by Mr. W. Iceton, Granard Nursery, Putney, with a mis-
cellaneous group, in which Arauearea excelsa, various Palms,
Acer Negundo folds variegatis, Bamboos, Draeama Doucetti,
Bermuda Lilies, Hydrangeas, Caladiums, Ericas, some very fine
Lily of the Valley, a specialty of the nursery ; and Asparagus
plumosus formed the greater proportion of the plants shown.
Messrs. Richard Smith & Co., Worcester, presented their
annual display of Clematisin pots ; better bloomed, we thought,
than ever. Where all was so excellent in variety, and culture
so good, it seems invidious to name any one variety, still the
varieties Sensation, Lawsoniana, Excelsior, Gloire de St.
Julien, Anderson Henry, purpurea elegans, Grand Duchess,
and Lord Nevill, would please the most exacting amateur-
gardener. The group consisted of about a score of plants,
spherical in form, and from 3 to 5 feet high.

A telling group of stove decorative plants, in which
Anthuriumsand Alocasias, with remarkably line foliage, formed
the main feature, was contributed by Messrs. Wills & Seoar,
florists, Onslow Place, South Kensington. We noted excellent
examples of the following Anthuriums, viz., crystallinum,
very perfect leaves ; and Veitchi ; and of Alocasias there were
argyrea, with boldly-banded leaves; Sanderiana, Thi-
bautiana, with light green veins and ribs, the intervening
spaces being of a dark moss-green tint ; Mortfontainensis,
Lowii grandis, and metallica. Other plants in the group
consisted of nine Nidularium fulgens, the glowing tint of the
central leaves very telling ; Phrynium variegatum, Dracicna
Godsefflana, D. Goldieana, a fine piece of this difficult plant ;
Dieflenbachia Bausei ; and of Palms standing at the back,
were Martinezia Caryotifolia, Steyensonia grandifolia, Ver-
scliaffeltia splendens, intcrrpread over all being Crotons,
Marantas, Bamboos, &c.

One of the showiest and choicest groups consisting of
flowering subjects, was that shown by Messrs. J. Veitch &
Honn, Ltd., Royal Exotic Nursery, King's Road, Chelsea.
Wc noted plants of hybrid Azalea mollis in much vaiiety,
Lemoine's rhiladelphus Boule d'Argent, which has double
flowers, Viburnum macrocephalum, Andromeda speciosa
Cassinefolia, Cytisus scoparius aureo-variegatus, with white
mealiness on the foliage ; Hydrangea Hortensia Maresei (see
fig. in supplement), RhododeLdron hybridum, Prometheus
and John Waterer, to give strong masses of bright colour ;
Lilac Mme. Lemoine, with small spikes of pure white flowers,
Alstromeria pelegrina alba. Wistaria sinensis, as standards,
Eremurus robustus, and E. r. El'vesianus, E. himalaicus,
Hydrangea paniculata var. grandiflora, as standards, and
quite effective as such. The back part consisted of Bamboos,
and the front of small plants of Japanese Acers.

Messrs. Fisher, Son, & Sibrav, showed a mixed
group of gund varieties of Laelia purpurata, Anthurium
Scherzerianum, Handsworth variety ; A. Andreanum atro*
s.inguineum, Alocasia argyrea, examples of Panax and Aralias,
including a large one of A. pulchra ; Drae:ena Dmicetti,
Asparagus procumbens, small Palms, Azalea Miss Buiste, a
small white- flowered, very floriferous variety ; Cypripediums,
Bertolonias, and Sonerilas.

ROSES.
There were rather more of these than usual, and in most
cases the quality was beyond the average ; but the excessive
heat iu the tents soon caused the best flowers to lose their
freshness. There was little to choose between the groups of
Messrs. W. Paul & Son, Messrs. G. Paul & Son, and Mr.
C. Turner, all of which were first-rate, and well set up.
H. P. " Tennyson," from Waltham Cross, is evidently a grand
new Rose. The habit is good ; flowers large and full, and of

a clearer colour than Lady Mary Fitzwilliam. Empress
Alexandra of Russia was also in good form, and certainly it
stands out as one of the most distinct Roses we have. The
peculiar shades of salmon and bronzy-red were most taking
We uoticed in this group the climbing form of Mrs. W. J.
Grant. Like most climbing sports, this is not so good as the
normal variety. Clio, Madame Abel Chatenay, and Ciimson
Queen, were among the best cut blooms, occupying ten large
boxes. All of the plants were good, especially Marquise de
Litta, Souvenir du Rosieriste, Gounod, Spenser, and Souvenir
de Madame E. Verdier. The last named will run K. A.
Victoria very close when better known. A comparatively
new variety, named Souvenir de President Carnot, is one of
the best soft salmon flesh Roses we have. This was one of the
best exhibits we have seen.

Mr. C. Turner, Slough, did not show any cut flowers this
year, but had a grand group of plants that were well grown,
and set up with great taste. Here again Souvenir de E.
Verdier aud Caroline Testout were most noticeable, while it
is almost superfluous to add that Crimson Rambler was very
prominent. Messrs. G. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, exhibited some
good standards and dwarfs. Psyche, a new semi-double of
soft pink shades is showy, and likely to prove a good com-
panion to Crimson Rambler, which it resembles in growth
and in the form of the truss. Dawn, another new Rose from
Cheshunt, is also good ; this is semi-double, and a very bright
flesh-pink. Elsie Fugier and Madame de Watteville are
always well shown by Messrs. Paul & Son ; nor must Carmine
Pillar.with its bright carmine blossoms, be omitted.

A group of plants, and eight large boxes of rut Roses, came
from Messrs. Rumsev & Son, Waltham Cross, but they were
not of the same quality as those already mentioned.

A very bright lot of small plants came from Mr. John
Russell, Richmond Nursery, Richmond.

A new Tea Rose, named Sunrise, came from Mr. G. W.
Piper, The Nurseries, Ucklleld, who staged six of "The
Princess " stands, in the same style as was recently seen at the
Drill Hall Meetings. It is one of the most distinct Roses wfl
have, and its perfume was remarked by all. Unfortunately, the
great heat caused the flowers to droop quickly. Probably
this is the most distinct new Rose of the year, both the
colouring aud deep bronzy foliage being unique, and
attracting considerable attention. It was figured in our
issue for May -20.

Those who have attended the Temple Show dining the past
few years will remember the grand cut Roses from Mr. G.
Mount, Canterbury, and who this year staged quite 300
blooms of perfect form ; Mrs. W. J. Grant, Bridesmaid,
Catherine Merniet, Clio, La France, and Caroline Testout
were superb. Mr. Mount cuts his Mowers with no niggardly
hand, and many of those sfaged had stems fully 2 feet iu
length.

There was a scarcity of new Roses, Tennyson, Sunrise,
Dawn, and Psyche being the best.

CACTACEOUS PLANTS.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nurseries,
King's Road, Chelsea, again made a large exhibit of Phyllo-
cacti in bloom. la Hardeners' Chronicle, June 4, 1S:»N, we
gave a capital illustration of the group exhibited last year.
Awards of Merit were recommended to three varieties on the
present occasion, and others of remarkable beauty were
Ursula, orange-red in colour ; Marsus, distinct pink; Plato,
deep crimbon ; Hecla, Cooperi, white; Favourite, pink ; La
Belle, white; &nd many others. There were upwards of
000 plants.

HIPPFASTRUMS.

Captain Holford, Westonbirt House, Tetbury (gr., Mr.
Chapman), exhibited one half-dozen of his marvellous Hippe-
astrums. Flying Fox had inverse flowers of deep crimson ;
Desmond is a very light-coloured flower of compact imbricate
form, lined in places with rich crimson ; Holocaust is a
bright flower, of large size, somewhat spreading, scarlet, with
considerable white in the throat; Templar, of the type of
Desmond, but the petals are more pointed ; The Czar is after
the style of Flying Fox, but in colour is very much deeper,
Messis. Paul & Sons also showed some line Hippeastrutne.

CANNAS.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent, made an
exhibit of Cannas in the magnificent manner we have become
accustomed to expect from Swanley. The collection included
the very best of the new Continental " Gladiolus like "
varieties, and the cultivation given the plants enabled one to
see them in a dwarf and vigorous condition. Some of the
more distinct and noteworthy in the group staged were aurea,
pure yellow; Duchess of York, yellow, spotted with red ;
Aurorc, Madame Pichon, Burbank, one of the very large but
rather flimsy flowers; the well-known (jueen Charlotte,
Duchess of York, a richly spotted variety ; Comte de Bou-
chard, another fine variety of a similar type ; Madame Crozy,
Lawrence D. Anthony Crozy, Leon Vassilier, Robert
Christie, &c,

BEGONIAS.

The tuberous-rooted B;gonias formed a very bright feature
in tent No. 4. There were sever;d large trade displays, eoin-
pised of abum'aitly flowered plants.

Mr. Thos. S. Ware (Ltd.), Hale Farm Nurseries, Totten-
ham, nude one of the grandest displays with tuberous-rooted
Begonias ever seen at the Temple Show. Almost all of the
varieties shown were double-flowering ones, and two of these
were sketched by our artist on the first day of the exhibition.

In addition .to the four splendid varieties described under

tare 3, 1S99.J

2^ GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

363

"Awards," there were Jessie Pope, a flower of very fe*
markable form and colour, very suggestive of a first class
flower of Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnation. The petals
have enormous substance and breadth, and the margins are
uncommonly wavy. The exact size of the flower and its
characteristic form may be seen on reference to fig. 126.
In colour it is pale salmon pink ; as shown the plant has a
perfect habit except that the weight of the blooms renders staking
a necessity. The foliage is of moderate size and deep green in
colour. The other variety is Mary Pope, a pure white flower.
Other fine varieties in this exhibit were Pride ot Kent,
carmine with whitish centre ; Miss Alice Beer, bright carmine,
with a few white spots sparsely spread over the petals ; Prima
Donna, salmon scarlet, very large flower, lighter in colour
towards centre ; Duke of York, intense crimson, moderate in
size; Sylvia, a delightful clear rose colour; Mrs. Dunbar
Wood, pure white, very wavy in outline ; Golden Queen of
England, rich yellow ; Her Majesty, pure white ; Duchess of
Devonshire, pink ; Miss Barbara Ray, coppery red. The few
singles included were good, but not of so note worthy a character
as the doubles, which will be remembered as one of the dis-
tinguishing features of this show.

Mr. H. J. Jones, Ryecroft Nursery, Hither Green, London,
S.E., [had a^group of Begonias in which the single varieties
were the more fully represented, and the plants were inter-
spersed with Adiantum and other ferns. Some of the best
varieties in the stand were Mrs. T. Lunt, rich rose colour ;
Mrs. Beerbohm Tree, white ; May Mauser, white with rose
margins ; Admiration, deep reddish-yellow ; Sunlight, yellow ;
and Hero of Omdurman, scarlet, &c.

Messrs. Jno. Laing & Sons, Stanstead Park Nurseries,
London, S.E., had a very carefully arranged group of double
and single-flowered varieties, and neither section prepon-
derated. The exhibit was very closely packed, like all
the others, and a few of the varieties were named, and of
doubles we noticed Picotee, Lady Rothschild, rich apricot
colour; The Queen, white; Duke of Fife, a magenta shade of
carmine ; Lady E. Spencer Churchill, a picotee type of flower ;
and Duchess of Sutherland, pure white. Messrs. Laing have
exhibited Begonias with uch success for so long a time, th it
the excellence of their strain is well known.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons between their exhibits of
Gloxinias and Cannas had also a pretty group of Begonias,
including single and double flowering varieties in about equal
proportions. Very pretty doubles were Lady Camden, rich
salmon; J Snow Wreath, Future King, crimson ; Lady Sophie
Scott, rose ; and Commodore Dewey, crimson ; Seymour Lucas,
an intensely crimson single variety was very good ; Miss Edith
Villiers, pink, and others.

Messrs. Webb & Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge, had also a
small group of unnamed single and double-flowered tuberous-
rooted Begonias.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, showed a few pretty
little plants of ornamental-leaved Begonias, the varietal
names being Conspicua, Gemmata, and Silver Bronze, all
of them being very desirable plants.

CALADIUM9.

These handsome foliage plants always make one of the most
prominent features in the shows at the Temple, and in the
schedule Caladiums appeared amongst those that might be
allowed the maximum amount of space, viz., 4U0 stjuare feet.
Though this Beems very considerable in proportion to that
permitted to Carnations and other popular plants, the large
trade growers not only easily fill all the space they can obtain,
but would gladly have more. There lias never been a poor
exhibit of Caladiums staged.

The best amateur's collection of Caladiums was one from
Pantia Ralli, Esq., Ashstead Park, Epsom (gr., Mr. G. J.
Hunt), which was rightly accorded a prominent position in
tent No. 4. All of the plants in this exhibit were good, and
they represented such first-rate varieties as Baron A. de Roths-
child, Lord Derby, Orpheus, Sir Henry Irving, Silver Cloud (a
novelty of three seasons ago), Silver Queen, Sir Julian Gold-
smid, J. Pierpont Morgan (one of Messrs. Veitch'k novelties
in 1S97), &c. One named Mr. Pantia Ralli was a handsome-
leaved variety of the spotted type.

A little corner group of Caladiums from R. Hoffman, Esq.,
Thurlow Lodge, West Dulwich, was a very commendable
amateur's exhibit, which, though less extensive than the
magnificent trade displays, and though the plants were un-
named, included a quantity of moderate-sized plants of good
varieties.

One of the best exhibits of Caladiums on thin occasion was
one from Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery,
Chelsea, The plants, though not larger in size than have been
staged previously at the Temple, were very perfect examples
of good cultivation and high colouring. The disposition of
the plants left nothing to be desired from the standpoint of
effect ; each plant could be seen to the best advantage, was
absolutely clear of its neighbour, and displayed the habit of
the plant, the form of leaf and colouring perfectly. Thecentre
plant was a marvellously-good specimen of Rose Laing, a
very pale-coloured leaf, with a rose-blush hue over the centie,
and mottled with green towards the margins. At the back
of the group were large specimens of Mrs. Harry Veitch, B. S.
Williams, Gaspard Grayer, Baron Adolphe de Rothschild,
Triomphe de Comte, Madame John Box, and Louis A. Van
Houtte. Then there were candiduin, Marquis of Camden,
exceptionally coloured ; Madame E. Pynaert, a self-coloured
leaf of handsome appearance ; Pantia Ralli, a large bronzy-
green leaf, with whitish spots ; and Oriflamme, very bright
centre of leaf, with bronzy-green margins. Lady Mosely and
Sir Stafford Northcote are two fine varieties, and recent
novelties of Messrs. Veitch. The beautiful Ibis Rouge was

represented by a plant of moderate size. Sir Edwin Smith is
a large oval, flat leaf, with high-coloured nerves, a bronzy,
green surface, and a few rather large, very irregular white
spots. A particularly well-coloured plant of Madame Schmidt
was noticed. The Mikado is, perhaps, the darkest coloured
variety of Caladium obtainable, and very sombre in appear-
ance. May Archer, a yellowish-white leaf with red margins
to the ribs, and Mrs. C. Archer, a very bright self-coloured
variety, are the newest In Messrs. Veitch's.

Messrs. John Laing & Sons, Stanstead Park Nurseries,
Forest Hill, London, S.E., had a beautiful exhibit of Cala-
diums, most of them being of very superior merit, and though
staged next to Messrs. Veitch & Sons' group of flowering
plants, they suffered less in comparison than might have been
expected. There were very fine plants of Gaspard Crayer,
Triomphe de Comte, excellent, candidum, Baron A. de
Rothschild, Baron de Mamore, Madame J. Box, Duchesse de
Montemart, a pale yellow or white-leaved variety; Louis A.
Van Houtte, a well-known, deeply self-coloured variety ; and
a very charming plant of Rose Laing.

Of novelties we noticed Illustration with leaves having a
white or green ground, spotted, and occasionally suffused
with red ; Alexander III., a deep, but bright ruby-red-leaved
variety of decided merit and good habit; Itapocii, a variety
with green-and-red leaves, margined with pure green. There
were pretty plants of Silver Cloud, Gaston Chandon, Golden
Queen, and Ladas, among the smaller-sized plants.

-. 'VV/^H -

Fig. 12S. — "fire dragon" cactits pelargonium:

COLOUR BRILLIANT SCARLET.

(As exhibited at the Temple Show by Mr. Ed. S. Powell.)

Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Rnupell Park Nurseries, Wpst
Norwood, Surrey, who have staged Caladiums wonderfully
well at the Temple Show for some years past, made a grand
exhibit. Not only were Messrs. Peed's Caladiums of very
large size, some of them being shown in 12-inch to 14-inch
pots, but they were grown in the same pots during the whole
season. Some of the largest specimens represented varieties
such as Madame J. Box, Sir William Broadbent, Mrs. Harry
Veitch, candidum, the best specimen of Silver Cloud that we
have seen, John Peed, Rose Laing, Roncador, Oriflamme, &c.
There were smaller examples of Marie Mitjana, a self-coloured
variety exceptionally well shown ; Argentine, pale green and
white ; Mrs. John Peed, President M. de la Devansaye, W. E.
Gladstone (new), a bronzy-green leaf with very deeply coloured
ribs ; Ibis Rose, Ibis Rouge, H. J. Chapman (new), a delicate
looking variety of much merit, and many others.

DECORATIVE PLANTS IN POTS, &c.

CALCEOLARIAS.

Being the season of the Calceolaria, it was to be expected
that several collections would put In an appearance.

At one end of the central Orchid stage in the large tent,
Messrs. Sutton & Sons, of Reading, had a grand group of
their fine strain, remarkable alike for dwarf, compact growth,
brilliancy of tint, floriferousness and variety. Some finely
marbled, white-gronnd varieties were among them ; and there
were yellow and crimson selfa. The leading feature about

present-day Calceolarias is the appearance of new combina-
tions of colours. Some five dozen or so plants formed this
attractive group.

Messrs. Webb &, Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge, had a table
collection of fifty good specimens or so, a very good strain ;
but the growth of some of the plants a little taller than in
the preceding group ; though apparently not showing
quite so much variation.

Messrs. James Carter k Co., seedsmen, High Holborn,
had a table group of some hundred plants of high quality and
variety, well grown and bloomed ; in addition, they had a
ground group of a good yellow self, which it is said comes
true from seed from carefully-fertilised flowers. Here and
there a few plants of Calceolarias appeared in miscellaneous
collections of plants.

CARNATIONS
were to the fore in good quantity, the Malmaison type being
in the ascendant. It appears possible that the increase in
size in the ordinary Carnations will bring the tyj.es so closely
together, that one type will be absorbed by the other.

In the Orchid-tent Mr. C. Blick, gr. to M. R. Smith, Esq.,
The Warren, Hayes, Kent, had a semi-circular group, pro-
nainent in which were several new Malmaisons, viz., Horace
Hutchinson, which would certainly have received an Award
of Merit, only that wire supports were used to keep the
flowers in position, which is contrary to regulations ; this is a
bright crimson self, of excellent form. In addition there were
Juliette, clear soft rose ; King Oscar, pale red, intermediate
in tint between the two preceding; Cecilia, a very fine large
yellow; Baldwin, a large soft pink self, very pleasing; Mrs.
Trelawny, pale scarlet ; Calypso, delicate blush ; Nautilus, a
little deeper in tint ; Mrs. Martin Smith, deeper still in tint ;
and others.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co. had three new varieties of Mal-
maison Carnations, viz., J. Coles, bright crimson, the flowers
large but somewhat loose; Ivanhoe, not quite so dark, more
of rose and less of crimson ; and Lily Measures, pale rose or
deep rosy pink.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, nurserymen, Highgate, had a
large group on the floor, mainly composed of a bed of Mal-
maison Carnation Princess of Wales, with two large and two
smaller mounds of Carnations at certain points. Of new
varieties, there were Henry James, deep reddish-rose, fine in
petal ; Herbert J. Cntbush, bright crimson, fine in petal ; and
Lady Clrica, pale rose. Of older varieties, there were Calypso,
Queen of Buffs, La Violette, deep pink on a cream ground ;
Sundridge, pale bright scarlet, fine petal ; Germania, &c.

Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nursery, Slough, had a group com-
prising Sir Bevys, deep crimson self; Agamemnon, maroon;
Miss Sophy Graham, soft salmon-pink ; Rizzio, yellow, &c.

From Mr. Sanders, gr. to A. de Rothschild, Esq., Halton,
Bucks, came two new Malmaison varieties, viz., Alfred de
Rothschild, bright red; and Halstead, pale red, both of
probable gord character, but not presented in good character.

AZALEAS AND RHODODENDRONS.

Messrs. Cuthbert (R. & G.), Southgate, staged a most
effective group of pontica and mollis varieties, which, by
reason of its position, was seen to the best possible advantage.
The plants were profusely flowered, the sulphur, creamy-
whites, and the shades of salmon and orange, were specially
attractive. The most striking were Charles Rivers, Phidias,
Hugo Koster, Emily Liebig, Anthony Koster (fine), Rudyard
Kipling, Aida, and Comte de Quincy.

Mr. John Russell, Richmond, also staged an excellent
exhibit ; the plants were not, however, quite so compact in
growth as the former, but the shades of colour and variety
were equally as good. The best were Norma and General
Bra Union t.

Mr. Chas. Turner staged a small group of the indica
variety, which contained a few good plants; but, on the whole,
they were but shades of the specimens of twenty years
back.

Messrs. John Waterer & Sons staged a fine lot of well-
flowered, medium-sized, plants, many of which bore fine
trusses; the best were Duchess of Connaught, Cynthia,
Pink Pearl (extra fine), Marchioness of Lansdowne, and
Sappho.

DRACAENAS, ALOCASIAS, ETC.

Messrs. F. Sander &, Co. showed a fine specimen of Draca?ha
Sanderiana, in first-rate character ; D. Godsethiana was also
in evidence in the same collection.

Mr. Wm. Bull, Chelsea, had a small group of Dracaena
Victoria, a very fine form of D. Lindeni, the variegation being
better defined, small plants being in excellent character.
Other well-grown Dracamas were to be seen iu the mixed
groups of plants.

Messrs. Sander &, Co. staged Alocasla spectalulis, like A.
Lowii, but of better habit ; also A. spectabilis Dana.

ANTHURIUMS.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co. showed a small group, consisting
chiefly of the Rothschildianum vars. of A. Seherzerianum,
varying in the intensity cf the crimson spots and blotches, all
bearing fine spathes. Also A. Sanderse, a form of A.
Andreanuui ; a specially fine form of A. Seherzerianum was
also shown, with an enormous spathe nearly 0 inches in
length,

364

THE GAB DEN BBS" CHRONICLE.

[Jhn-e 3, 1899.

HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS, &c.

These were as usual very largely represented, and in great
variety, commencing at the western end of the long tent on
the north side.

Messrs. Wallace & Co., nurserymen, Colchester, had a
group of Lilies in pots on the ground, and also cut flowers on
a table. Among the fcrmer were L. x Marhan, Martagon
;■ Hansoni, a distinct, dark-flowered form ; x Dalhansqn
dalmaticum x Hansoni; Hansoni, in fine character; excel-
sum, very fine; giganteum, varieties of umbellatum and
Thunbergianum, ic. ; also hardy Cypripedinms, such as
spectabile, pubescens, very fine, acanle and montanum. Some
very fine imported Pteonies from Japan, Calochorti, Brodisas,
Sp.'iraxis: a variety named Fire King was very fine. Ixias,
Iris of sorts, &c, a very interesting collection.

Messrs. T. S. WAnE & Co. (Ltd.), Hall Farm Nurseries,
Tottenham, had a collection of plants in pots and also out
specimens, including Lilium Hanisii, Spiraeas, the double
scarlet Geuni, Cytisus scoparius Andreanns. Peonies, hardy
Cypripedinms, Pyrethrums, Primula japonica, hardy Aza-
leas, Ononis rotundifolia, Anemone alpina sulphurea. Iris.
Trollius, &c.

Messrs. G. Jackmas & Son, nurserymen, Woking, who
had an interesting collection, including Iris, Tritonia, P»b-
nies, Pyrethrums, Uvularia grandiflora, Incarrillea Delavayi,
Lilacs, Aquilegias, Chrysogonum virginianuni, Ononis rotun-
difolia, Campanula glomerata alba, Anemone sylvestris florc-
pleno, Papaver nudicaule in variety, &c.

A very good collection was also staged by Messrs. Paul &
Sox, Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, which included some of the
leading varieties of new L>lics, viz., Madame Lemoine,
Alphonse Lavalle'e, President Grevy, alba grandiflora,
Madame Kreuter, Souvenir de Ludovic Spath, a grand dark
variety, and President Camdt. Pieonies, Iris, Pyrethrums,
pretty Alpines in baskets, Aquilegias, Tulips, Rhododendrons,
Corydalis nobilis, &c.

Some fine flowering heads of Myosotidium nubile were
staged by Mr. J. Stow, gr. to R. H. Fremi.ix, Esq., Water-
ingbury, Maidstone, which were greatly admired, and were
the only examples in the show.

Mr. JannoCH, Dersingham, near Sandringham, had bunches
olios line strain of Lily of the Valley, and in another part of
the show, Mr. W. Pocpabt, Marsh Farm, Twickenham; had
supi-i b examples of a very fine giant variety.

Messrs. Barr & Sox had about twenty feet run of tabling
arranged as an Alpine bank, on which had been planted a
number of interesting subjects, but then' was a great want of
proper naming, to the disappointment of many. In addition
there was a largo bank, mainly of cut flowers, including various
Poppies, Narcissus, Pyrethrums, Anemone palmata alba, A.
sylvestris, and its double form ; Trollius japonicus florepleno,
Sweet Peas, Pa-onies, Ixias, Sparaxis, early flowering
Gladiolus, Iris of various types, ic. Probably the choicest
collection of hardy plants came from Mr. M. Pritchard,
Nurseryman Christchurch, who had plants and cut blooms
both prominent being Cytisus purpureus incarnatus ;
Gypsophila cerastioides, a dwarf, white flowered plant,
Asperula hirta, Gentiana verna, Linaria hopatieajfolia,
Trollius Orange Globe, very tine ; Phlox setacea, Vivid, Erica
vulgaris auria, Achillea mongolica, Spirrea Aruncus, var.
Kneiffa, Hemerocallis Miihlewlorli, Dianthus alpimis, Pyre-
tlirums, Erigcron aurantiacus, Lathyru', Sibthtrpi, a very
tine Everlasting Pea, Ourisia eoccinea, &c.

Mr. Amos Perrv, Nurseryman, Winchmore Hill, also
staged an interesting collection, which included Phlox Cana-
densis, Tulips, Cytisus scoparius Andreauus, Delphinium
nudicaule, Primula luteola, Arcnaria grandiflora, Aquilegia
Stuarti, A. co/rulea, &c. Trollius Fortunei, H. pi., Globularia
vulgaris, Ramondia pyrenaica, &c.

Mr. W. .1. Godfrey, Nurseryman, Exmouth, had a collec-
tion of new forms of Papaver orientale, of the Blush Queen
type, a few of them of decided promise, but they had suffered
on the longjourney, the best are Devonshire Lass, bronzy
salmon ; A. W. Chillery, a pleasing pink, and Admiration, a
kind of rose-tinted crushed Strawberry tint.

The Gt'tLDFORD Hardv Plant Company had a very attrac-
tive arrangement in the form of an Alpine Garden, backed
harmoniously by various dwarf shrubs. None of the subjects
were named, but simply under number, which appeared to
perplex visitors, who were desirous of identifying certain
subjects.

Messrs. James Veitoh & Soxs had a group of Primula
japonica in variety ; and one of hybrid Aquilegias, edged with
Hydrangea Mariesii.

TANSIES AND VIOLAS.

Messrs. Isaac House * Sox, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol,
win, are specialists in Tansies, had a collection or bunches of
fancy varieties, prominent among them II. A. Stewart, James
Cimbell, I'. S. McLennan, Mary Kay, Col. Buchannan, W. II.
Clark, 11. G. McKay, John Miller, James Maxwell, Mrs. J.
Smellie ; also baskets of fine fancy varieties, and also of
Violas.

Mr. W. Sydenham, Tamworth, set up four dozen spraj 9 "t
pretty Violas ; tin- leading varieties, Mrs. R. N. Mitchell, sir
Visto, Blanche, Ethelward, Kingcup, ('barm, The Meams,
Lizzie Paul, Sydney, Symphony, Qu ienie, Pembroke, W. Haig,
Acme, Devonshire Cream, A-c. ; also six dozen of tine fancy
Tansies on boards.

Messrs. J. Cheat. & Sons, Nurserymen, Crawley, also had a
collection of Violas set up in sprays on boards, arranged in
panels and in groups, with Ferns and Moss, and with them
were a few hardy Bowers of various kinds.

Messrs. R H. Bath & Co. (Ltd.), Wisbech, also bad a
number of fine blooms of Fancy Pansies, and a somewhat
unusual sight in May, Cactus-Dahlias ; and in addition, also

Carnations Duke of York, Henry Gibb, and others, together
with Iris, &c.

P.EONIES.

While blooms of these appeared in several collections of
hardy flowers, the largest and most comprehensive group was
staged by Messrs. Kelwav & Sons, nurserymen, Langport
Among the newer varieties were Cecil Rhodes, rich rosy
salmon ; Ella C. Stubbs, a large white ; Julius Caesar, shaded
crimson; Alchemist, deep crimson purple; Critis, salmon-
pink ; Diamond Jubilee, maroon, margined with white, with
white stripes on the petal edges ; William Robinson, wdiite,
with rosy-purple shading round the centre ; Terosi, pale
pinkish rose ; Duchess of Marlborough, blush, with deeper
centre ; Mrs. William Kelway, large white ; Lady Skelnters-
dale, delicate blush ; Lord Kitchener, shining maroon ; Lord
Dunraven, pinkish rose ; Henry Irving, maroon ; Ornre,
maroon crimson; a fine bank of bunches of the same, and in
addition such subjects as Eremurus himalaicus, Aquilegia
ccerulea, Hippeastraius, &c.

Captain Forrexs, Bastou Manor, Hayes, had three fine
varieties of Pa-onies, imported from Japan ; viz., a large white,
a rosy salmon, and a maroon-purple.

TULIPS.
Messrs. Barr & Soxs were the only exhibitors of these in
anything like a representative collection. The lateness of the

season was seen iu tli lleetion of late florists' Tulips they

staged, which included flowered-bizarre Dr. Hardy, flowered-
byblcemen Adonis and Talisman ; flowered Roses, Kate
Connor, Heroine and Mabel, and several breeders, such as
Goldfmder, Talisman, Mabel, &c. ; and of the so-called Dar-
win breeders, Fairy Queen, Hecla, The Sultan, Loveliness, &c.

FERNS.

In an imposing group many large specimens were shown
by Messrs. Hill & Soy, Lower Edmonton, London, and
elevated on tall pedestals, and the utmost use was made of the
limited space allowed. The whole group was well arranged, and
all the plants were remarkably fresh and healthy. Of the
larger specimens were N< phxolepis nigrescens tripinnatifida,
Cibotinm Scheidei, Asplenium eaudatnm (a very fine Fern for
fin elevated position); Davallia Mooreana, and a fine mass of
Platycerium aleieorne ; of Adiantum the tinted varieties wen-
well represented, macrophyllum and its variety bipinnutum
heing very good ; tinelnm, cyclosorum, and others. Of
those which do not show the bright tints, A. capillus-
veneris imbricatum, Mariesii, Williamsii, mundulum, and
many others were well shown. Davallias : of these the
distinctand rare D. aculeata was represented by a fine specimen,
tenuilVdia Veitcbi ; immersa, solida, and alpina were also pro-
minent. Aspleniums : of those marginatum, Hilli (a new
variety of the bulbiferum type), nidus, esculentum, and,
ornatum wen' prominent. Polypodiums included Schneideri,
Irioides lingua, lingua heteractis, and a very fine plant of
albo-punetatissiinnm. PlatyceriuinsWillineki aTidsethiopicum,
were prominent; of Pteris a line basket of tricolor was shown,
as well as Victorise, rubricaulis, and many others. Others
worthy of note were Litobrochia vespertilionis, Aglaiomorpha
Meyeriana, Goniophlebium subauriculatum, Gymnogrammas
of sorts, Anemia rotundifolia, Lastreas, including the brightly-
coloured erythrosora, Lygodiums, and many others, the whole
forming a most inteie ■ting and attractive group.

In Mr. H. B. May's group from Dyson's Road Nursery,
Upper Edmonton, pedestals were also used to some extent, but
the great feature of the group was that many of the Ferns are
grown on branching tree stems, which stand from 3 to 5 ft. high,
and several plants being used for each stem, the effect was very
pleasing. Davallias, Nephrolepis, Adiantums (the vars. with
spreading rhizomes), a id others, being treated in this way,
while many of the smaller-growing Polypodiums, &.c, were
grown on short pieces of Tree-Fern trunks, covered with
sphagnum-moss. In this group the Gymmograinmas were well
represented, the most conspicuous being G. chrysophylla
grandiceps superha, Alslonue fiavescens and elegantissiino are
also good. Gleichenias include the best varieties, dicarpa
longipinnata and rupestris glauccscens b.'ing very attractive.
Snne fine varieties of Asplenium were also shown, these include 1
Mayi, elegantissimum, and other varieties from the Baptist!
s:ction. Adiantums were well represented, and include
Farleyense, also its variety alcicorne fovcarum (brightly
tinted with rosy-red), Bessonianum (a new variety of great
merit), macrophyllum (highly coloured), fasciculatum dola-
briforme (a pretty basket Fern), and many other useful
varieties. Davallias: in addition to those shown on Tree-
stems, many others were shown in pots and baskets, the
varieties of Fijiensis being particularly interesting. Lygo-
diumswere represented by scandens,, japonica and polymorpha,
all grown on tall, thin stie.ks. Platyeeriums included grande
Willincki, .ethiopicum, and Hilli. In Folypodiums the beauti-
ful P. Mayi. which was so much admired last year, was well
shown. Another fine new Fern shown was Pteris Summersi,
which originated from P. Wimsetti. Other fine garden
varieties were included in this fine group.

Mr. BlEKENHEAD's group from Sale, Manchester, though
not so imposing as the others, was particularly interesting, as
it included many species not often exhibited, and the plants,
though small as a whole, wore remarkably fresh ami healthy.
The filmy Ferns wen well represented, and prettily arranged
in a neat glass case. They included Trichomanes radicans,
T. parvula, T. Colen^.i, T. Alabamensis, Hymenophyllum
Kosterianum.H. eiliatum, H.radicansdilatatum, and H.nitens.
The hardy species and varieties included some choice forms of

Athyriums, Polypodiums, Polystichums. Of the latter there
are some fine forms of the plumosum section, the names
of these, also those of the lady-Fern, being much too long to
enumerate here. P. angulare divisilobium pluinosissimum is
shown in the Supplement ; a fine plant of the North
American-maiden-hair (Adiantu:n pedatum) ; also Osmunda
Claytonianum, Asplenium trichomanes incisum, Blechnum
triuervo coronans

Of the more tender species, some very fine varieties of
Gymnogramma sehizophylla were shown, superbaand gloriosa
prolifera (see fig. in Supplement) being very pretty ; the
latter has a bulbil or young plant on each of the side
pinnae, these being covered with silvery-white farina. The
Adiantums included the pretty little monoehlamys, A.
Lawsonianum, palmatum Luddemannianum, and others.
Lomarias included some pretty small growing varieties.
Note may be made of Banksi, pumila, crenulata, and the
beautifully-coloured L'Herminieri. Lygodiuni uiicrophyllinn,
L. volubileand dichotonmm, Pteris moluccana and seabeiula
were well represented. Davallias included aculeata and the
choice little D. pedata. Doodiaamoena has bright red-tinted
fronds. Anemia rotundifolia, A. villosa, Balantium culcita.
Platyloma flexuosna, P. ternifolia, and a host of other
interesting varieties were shown. We must not omit the
beautiful violet-scented Fern, Asplenium fragrans, which,
though one of the most difficult to manage, was well shown.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present : Philip Crowdey, Esq. (Chairman), and Messrs.
Richard Parker, W. Farr, J. W. Bates, Geo. Woodward,
Wm. Pope, Jas. H. Veitch, H. Balderson, 9. Mortimer, Geo.
Bunyard, John Bashan, Robt. Fife, Chas. Herrio, F. Q. Lane,
G. Reynolds, J. Willard, J. Mclndoe, Geo. Wythes M.
Gleeson, W. J. Einpson, J. Wright, and Alex. Dean.

FRUIT TREES IN POTS.

The chief exhibit in this section was the very fine collection
sent by Messrs. T. Rivers & Sons, Sawbridgeworth. It
comprised twenty-four 'standard, pyramid, and bush trees
in 11 -inch pots, and several flat -trained trees, all in the
best possible condition, and in fruit. There were also, as
a central object, very fine fruits of Early Rivers' Nee-
tarine, and Early York Peaches in boxes. The trees included of
Peaches, Dr. Hogg, Crimson Galande, Stirling Castle, carrying
twenty fine fruits. Hales' Early, Royal Gc nge, and Daginar.
rich criuuon colour, one of the very best. Of Nectarines,
Dryden of superb colour, Stanwick Elruge, also intensely
coloured ; Humboldt, Rivers' Orange, Cardinal, and Rivers'
Early. There were of Plums, Early Prolific, and of
Cherries the white Belle d'Orleans, and black Early Rivers.
Tins line collection had a place of honour tn the large tent.

Messrs. G. Bustard & Co., Maidstone, hail elsewhere some
eighteen trees and bushes, fee., in pots as a background to a
fine collection of seventy diihes of Apples. Of trees, there
were in good fruit, Alexander, Waterloo, and Hale's Early
Peaches, Early Rivers' Nectarine, Denuiston's Superb and red
Magnum Bonum Plums, Madeline and St. John Figs, and
several cordon Gooseberries. The Apples included, in capital
condition, excellent samples of Calville Rouge, Calville
Malingre, Calville Blanche, Alfriston, Smart's Prince Albert,
Tibbett's Pearrnain, Murlitt's Seedling, Striped Beefing, Lord
Derby, Annie Elizabeth, Wellington, Newton Wonder, Norfolk
Beefing, Gloria Mundi, and Bismarck ; also Pears, Catillac and
Uvedale's St. Germain, and a dish of good Alexander Peaehes.

GENERAL COLLECTIONS OF FRUIT.

<>i' these a very fine one came from Sir Joseph Pease, M.P. ,
wli.se gardener Mr. Mclndoe, invariably brings from Hutton
Hall, tinislorough, first class things. The background con-
sisted of butiehes of Black Hamburgh, Foster's Seedling,
and early summer Frontignan Grapes, in trebles, admirably
Finished : and of dished fruits Melons, Scarlet Premier, and
three seedlings. Also superb Black Tartarian, and White
Bigarreau Napoleon, ami Down ton Cherries, a dozen fine
Grosse Mignonne Peaches, early Rivers' Nectarines, Brown
Turkey Fig$, Catillac Pears, and Mclndoe's Russet and
Carlime Apples, with Oranges and Lemons, and Favourite
Tomatoa.

A [by no means less valuable collection was that set np by
Mr. Fyfe, gr. to Lord Wantage, Loekingc Park, Berks. This
comprised twenty-two dishes, the whole being prettily dressed
with lxia flowers and grassy foliage set up in. small glasses.
At the back were very fine Madreslield Court and Foster's
Seedling Grapes, an I also Black Hamburgh and Buekland
Sweetwater. Of Melons, Hero of Lockinge, of course, was
fine, so also were some^seedlings a id huge Citrons. Beautiful
samples of Stirling Castle Peaches, Imperatrice Necta-
rines, superb in colour; Brown Turkey and white Ischia
Figs, Royal Sovereign Strawberry, noble spikes of Monsters
deliciosa, Tomatos, and smu ■ good Apples, of which Jack,
and Fearn's Pippin, were richly coloured.

Mr. Ryder, gr. to the Countess of Limerick, St. Albans
had a mixed collection of Fruit and Vegetables, inclusive of
Grosse Mignonne Peaches, several dishes; also Strawberry
Royal Sovereign, various Melons, Tomato*, Broccolis, Dwart
Beans, Peas, Cucu nbers, Lettuces, Turnips, Potatos, &c,
neatly set off' with some small Palms,

June 3, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

365

Three dishes of Royal George Peaches were sent by Mr. B.
Ashton, gr. to the Earl of Lathom, Lathom House, Ormskirk.

From Mr. W. Bastin, gr. to H. Henderson, Esq., Buscot
Park, Berks, came a mixed collection. The fruit included
excellent Hero of Lockinge, Earl's Favourite, Blenheim
Orange, RoyalJubilee, and a seedling Melon, small Grapes,
Figs, Tomatos, with piles of beautiful white, if small. Fust
Crop Cauliflower.-;. Also Peas, Marrows, Cucumbers, Inn h
Beans, Carrots, really pleasingly displayed, the fruits especially
being prominent in raised wicker stands.

Mr. W. Robins, gr. to Col. Lee, Hartwell House, Aylesbury,
had tine Hales' Early Peaches, and four gold Melons.

POT STRAWBERRIES
were shown by Mr. W. Allan, gr. to Lord Sdfkield, Gunton
Park, Suffolk, who had excellently fruited plants of the new
Lady Sultield, the fruits arc deep coloured, long and tapering,
and of capital flavour. After keen voting the Fruit Com-
mittee refused it an award because some of the fruits had not
swelled up satisfactorily.

Messrs. L\xton & Sons, Bedford, set up very neatly n
Ferns, some forty-two pots of their new variety Fillbasket,
frail well set on the plants, and somewhat pale in coloui ;
and some pots of their tine variety Leader, with fruit larger
and of deeper colour.

Mr. J. Crook, Forde Abbey Gardens, Chard, showed some
vegetables, well kept Apple Sturmer Pippin, Dwarf Beau
Progress, very freely podded, and Tomatos.

A very fine and representative collection of vegetables, with
some fruit, was staged by Mr. W. J. Empson, gr. to the Hon.
Mrs. Winofielp, Ampthill, Beds. A telling central figure was
a huge bunch of Bananas, and there were numerous Melons,
Sutton's Scarlet Golden Perfection, Hero of Lockinge, seedling,
Arc. ; also the Strawberries, Leader, Royal Sovereign, and Sir J.
Paxton. Tomatos, Dedham Favourite, Duke of York, and
Market Favourite ; of Peas in dishes, Carter's Daisy, Early
Morn, and Springtide ; and of Beans, Seville Mammoth Long
Pod, Ne Plus Ultra, and Osborne's Forcing Dwarf. The
background comprised Broceolis, Oxheart Cabbages, Let-
tuces, Cauliflowers, Giant Leeks, Radishes, &.<■., and also
Cucumbers, Royal Osborne, and various other products, all
of high quality, and set up in Mr. Empson's admirable style,
making a most attractive exhibit.

Messrs. Webb & Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge, had fine
t lucunibers, Webb's Perpetual Bearcr,and Improved Telegraph,
also boskets of a line Pea unnamed, and of Little Marvel pea,
an 1 II u binger Dwarf Beans.

I'm:. 129.— topiaby wokk at the temple show.
(Shown by J. i heal & Tons. See Miscellaneous Exhibits.)

VEGETABLES.

These were frequently shown mixed with fruits, an arrange-
ment convenient to the exhibitor but awkward for the re-
porter. Fur that reason it is needful to take the collections
as we found them. A very line exhibit was that put up by
Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, who had s< ven boxes of
Tomatos and five boxes of Cucumbers, in addition to various
dishes, &c. The Tomatos comprised the new Winter Beauty,
Perfection, Mitchell's Hybrid, Red Dessert, Sutton's Al,
Challenger, Chemin Rouge, and The Cropper. Cucumbers
were Improved Telegraph, Express, The Keeper, very deep
colour; Prizewinner, Success, and a seedling, six fruits of
each, andall of first-class quality. Also Melons Conqueror,
Hero of Lockinge, Royal Sovereign, seedling Beau Ideal, and
others, some twenty fruits.

Superb Asparagus cnine from Colchester, being shown by Mr.
Y Chapman, who had seven bundles, perfect examples of this
vegetable, Mr. W. Godfrey, who had six bundles, and alsu a
bundle of fine Rhubarb, unnamed; and from Mr. A. J.
Habwood, who had three bundles.

Messrs. A. W. Toukg & Co., Stevenage, had a nice lot of
their Tomatos, Young's Eclipse, something after the style of
Conference.

A most interesting collection of Mushrooms and spawn-
cakes, illustrative of his methods of culture and spawn, came
from Mr. R. E. Addev, Ealing Ro;id, Brentford, the Mush-
rooms being presented in baskets in various stages of growth,
and were in appearance exceedingly toothsome.

From the Swam.fv HoRTicULTtTRAt College came a large
collection Qf Vegetables, the best things of which were a
standard-trained Cucumber, Peerless, carrying six
fruits, also very well fruited Tomatos in pots, and admirably
done Dwarf Peas in pots, very fresh. Cm-umbers were in
great plenty, including Rochford's Magnum Bon urn, Match-
less, Every Day, &c. There was also a large collection of
general vegetables, good and indifferent.

Mis;rs. Sitton & Sons, of Reading, put up a most inte-
resting collection" of superb Peas in lancets, samples equal
to the finest out-door products, but having the bloom so finely
preserved. The central figure of the collection was a big
mound of the new Winter Tomato, Winter Beauty, the st< ck
of which has become the property of the firm. The Peas were
shown in broad and narrow round flats, and some in oblor.g
ones; grand were the samples of Early Giant, also Excelsior,
May Queen, Bountiful, and Duke of Albany. There were
four of these baskets, and if the group was not a great one,
the exhibits were of the highest excellence.

Messrs. Jas. Carter & Co., High Holborn, staged a fine and
interesting exhibit, inclusive of in pots, Peas, Early Morn.
Early Forcing, Anticipation, and Telephone. Also large
baskets of Daisy, and the varieties just named, all c ipital
samples.

There were also baskets of Climbing Bean, Case Knife, Duke
of York Tomato, Blenhein Orange Melons, Long Sword, and
White Advancer, Dwarf Beans, Beets, Radishes, Leeks,
Earliest-of-All , and other Cucumbers, fine fruits ; Lettuces,
Cabbages, Carrots, &c, the whole presenting a collection of
great excellence and value.

MISCELLANEOUS EXHIBITS.

Messrs. J. Carter & Co., High Holborn, staged some
plants of Mimulns with very large, finely-marked flowers ;
the strain is known as "The Queen's Prize." Also very fine
Giant Mignonette, Lilies-of-the-Valley from retarded crowns,
and "Emperor" Petunias, single and double-flowered.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch «L* Sons, Chelsea, had a few plants of
Primula japonica, some with pale-coloured flowers, others
very rich purple. Also some pretty Aquilegias. Messrs.
Veuch had also some plants of yellow-flowered Callas.

From R. I. Mkasi-res, Esq., Camberwell (gr., Mr. H. .).
Chapman), came an exhibit of.certain species of insectivorous
plants. The only Nepenthes was a planted' N. Mastersiix ; but
some very line Sarraceniaa were staged, including S. Courti,
Williamsii, Wrigleyana, and Chelsoni. There were also some
fine Droseras, Cephalotus, &c.

Mr, Poupart, of Marsh Farm, Twickenham, showed some
ex. -optionally strongly-grown Lilies-of-the-Valley, exhibited
in sprays tied up in the shape of fans.

Mr. Jannoch, of Dersingham, Norfolk, had a very line
exhibit of Lilies-of-the- Valley from retarded crowns, dis-
played in the cone-shaped masses this well-known cultivator
has become famous for.

.Messrs. Button & Sons, Reading, made a very attractive
exhibit of their strains of Nemesia struiuosa, a free-flowering
annual with very prettily-marked flowers. The older strain
may be had in four distinct colours ; but in the newer strain,
which appears to bear rather smaller and even more numerous
Bowers, some with blue blooms were noticed — a colour not
found in the earlier strain.

Messrs. .Iojin Laino <fc Sons, Forest Hill, S.E., exhibited a
batch of plants of their " multiflora" strain of Streptocarpus,
in which several novel tints were noticed.

Messrs. J, Chkal & Sons, Lowlield Nurseries, Crawley,
had also Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and a topiary exhibit of
Box and Yew trees, a revival of an old-fashioned fancy which
we cherish when old, but deprecate when new. (See fig. 129,
p. 805.)

Messrs. Jko. Watkrer & Sons. American Nurseries, Bag-
shot, showed a nice Little collection of hardy Conifers,
including several varieties of Cupressus Lawsoniana and of
Retinospora; their Taxus japonica is the fastigiate form of
Cephalotaxus peduncnlata.

A fine group of hirdy Bamboos was arranged out-of-doors

bj Messrs. .1 imes Veitch & Sons. There were Phyllostachys

nigra x punctata aurea castellionis, Arundinaris Fortunei,

llindsii, chrysantha, &c. ; Bambusa Alphonse Kan

pnlmata, angustifolia, tessellata, ire.

Bamboos were also well shown by Mr. V. N. GaDHTLI:tt,
Redruth.

Awards of the Floral Committee.
Acer pseudo-platanus var. elegantissima variegata. A very
ornamental, perfectly hardy Maple. The early foliage is
reddish in colour, changing to cream, and finally to a clear
variegation of pale yellow and green. A dozen strong plants
were shown, each about 5 ft. high.— From Messrs. T. Perkins
& Son, Northampton.

Anemone sylvestris (lore pleno.— A full double form, with
handsome white cone-like blossoms. From Messrs. G. Jack-
man & Son, Woking. (Award of Merit.)

Begonia Duke of Devonshire. — A flvt-petalled, smooth
flower, with high centre until the flower has developed.
Colour intense crimson. From Mr. T. S. Ware & Co., Ltd.
(Award of Merit.)

Begonia Miss Barbara Ray. — Very beautiful and distinct in
colour, being a shade of orange-red. In form the flower much
resembles a Rose, but has more " centres " than one. From
T. S. Ware & Co., Ltd. (Award of Merit.)

Begonia Miss Bella Tait— An exceptionally large globular-
like flower of salmon-scarlet colour, with wavy outlines to
the petals. Prom Mr. T. S. Ware & Co., Ltd. (Award of
Merit.)

Begonia Miss Mary Pope (see fig. 127) is a pure white
Camellia- shaped flower, the actual size of which may
be sen from the illustration. It is one of the best Begonias
ever exhibited, and as a pure white flower unexcelled. While
the plant has a very good, free-flowering habit, the flower-
stems arc not propoitionate in strength to the weight of the
blooms. From T. S. Ware & Co., Ltd. (Award of Merit.)

Dracpena canna-folia variegata.— An ornamental Dracama
with green and yellow foliage, the stein beiDg as long or
longer than the blade of the leaf, which is about 2£ inches in
width. The plant has a distinct and handsome appearance.
From Messrs. John Laing <fc Sons. (Award of Merit.)

Helieonia Sanderi is a most ornamental variety. Three
large plants were exhibited by Messrs. F. Sander & Co., and
as these were protected by a large glass case, it was not con-
venient to inspect them with a view to making a minute de-
scription. The leaves are large and handsome, some of them
almost white over the whole surface, and in others the
variegation is generally in lines. (First-class Certificate).

Ilex Wilsoni.— Messrs. Fisher, Sou, '& Sibray. (First-class
Certifiea'e.) (See p. 3G2.)

Juniperus Sanderi. —Probably a temporary form of Juniperus
sinensis. It has blue-green needles in place of the green, and
is very pretty. From Messrs. F. Sanler & Co. (First-class
Certificate.)

Pieonia arborea Cecil Rhodes.— A rich, rosy salmon-coloured
flower, large, and very fine. From Messrs. Kelway <fc Son.
(Award of Merit.)

Pieonia arborea Miss Beatrice Jones.— A charming white-
flowered variety of fine form, the centre tinted with rosy.
purple. From Messrs. Kelway & Sons. (Award of Merit.)
Phyllocactus Admiration. — A beautiful flower of warm

366

THE GAR DENE BS9 CHRONICLE.

[June 3, 1S99*

flesh-colour to rich pink ; of Very pleasing form. From
Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons. (Award of Merit.)

Phyllocactus J. T. Peacock Improved. — A larger flower
than the type, being a seedling from J. T. Peacock after being
crossed with Niobe. From Messrs. J. Veitch & Sous. (Award
of Merit.)

Phyllocactus Nysa.— A very spreading flower of a rich,
warm purple shade of cerise. From Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons.
(Award of Merit.)

Polysticlmm angulare divisilobum plnmosissimum. — A
novelty showing a remarkable second growth upon the fronds
made la^t year ; very dense and beautiful. It is in the way
of P. a. d. plumosum densum Esplei, but is vastly superior.
(See fig. in supplement.) From Messrs. W. & J. Birkenhead.
(First class Certificate.)

Awards.
First-class Certificates.

To Odontoglossum crispum, Arthur Briscoe, shown by W.
Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone.

Cattleya Mossiie "Beauty of Bush Hill," Mes ts. Hugh
Low & Co., Bush Hill Park.

Lfelio-Cattleya Aphrodite, var. Madame Albert Ilye, M. Jutes
Hye, Ghent.

Ladio-Cattleya Aphrodite "Ruth," J. Rutherford, Esq.,
M.P., Beardwood, Blackburn.

La-lia purpurata "Annie Louise," G. W. Law * Schofield,
Esq., Rawtenstall.

Awards of Merit.

To Odontoglossum triumphans" King Alfred," W. Thompson,
Esq., Walton Grange, Stone.

Phahenopsis Sanderiana, Wigan's var., Sir F. Wigan, Clare
Lawn, East Sheen.

Miltonia vexillaria Dulcotensis, Walter Cobb, Esq., Tun-
bridge Wells.

Cattleya Mossiie Goossensiana ; Cattleya Mendeli, Burfurd
variety ; and Thunia Bensoniit superba, Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Burford, Dorking,

Cattleya intermedia, Rosslyn var. ; H. T. Pitt, Esq ,
Stamford Hill.

Cattleya Mendeli " Perfection ;" Messrs. Hugh Low & Co.,
Bush Hill Park.

Cattleya Mossite "Mrs. C. H. Feiling;" Messrs. Stanley-
Mobbs & Ashton, Southgate.

Odontoglossum Halli de Laissemanum ; O. crispum " Perle
du Con^o ;" Mons. Jules Hye, Ghent.

Odontoglossum var. "Miss Linden;" Miltonia vexillaria
Lindeniif ; M. Linden, Brussels.

Cattleya Mossiffi gloriosa; J. Rutlierford, Esq., M.P.,
Beard wood, Blackburn.

Botanical Certificate.
Cainpanemia uliginosa ; and Cypripedium glandulfferum ;
Sir Trevor Lawrence.

Gold Medal*.

1. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bt., for Orchids.

2. M. Jules Hye, Ghent, for Orchids.

3. Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, for Phyllocactus,

Caladiums, Gloxinias, Shrubs in Flower, and Bambjos.

4. Messrs. Fisher, Son & Sibray, Handsworth, Sheffield, for

Shrubs and Foliage-plants.

5. Messrs. T. S. Ware & Co., Tottenham, for Begonias.

Silver Cups.

1. M. L. Linden, Brussels, for Orchids.

2. Sir F. Wigan, Bart, for Orchids.

3. Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, for Orchids atd New

and Rare Plants.

4. Messrs. Charlesworth &. Co., Bradford, for Orchids.

5. Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, for Orchids.
G. Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, for Roses, &c.

7. Mr. Geo. Mount, Canterbury, for Roses.

8. Messrs. W. Paul &Son, Waltham Cross, for Roses.
0. Mr. H. B. May, Edmonton, for Ferns.

10. R. I. Measures, Esq., Camberwell, for Insectivorous

Plants.

11. Messrs. Wills & Segar, South Kensington, for Foliage-

plants.

12. Messrs. Geo. Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, for Apple ami

Fruit-trees.

13. Lord Wantage, Loekinge, for Fruit.

14. Messrs. T. I'1. Rivers & Son, Sawbridgewortb, for Fruit.
13. Messrs. J. Laing & Suns, Forest Hill, for Streptoearpus,

Ca'adiums, and Begonias.
1(1. Messrs. Sutton <fc Sons, Reading, for vegetables and

Calceolarias.
17. Messrs. J. Backhouse & Son, York, for Miscellaneous

Plants and Alpines.

15. W. Thompson, Esq., Stone, for Orchids.

19. J. Rutherford, Esq., M.P., Blackburn, for Orchids.

•JO. Mr. J. Cypher, Cheltenham, for Orchids.

21. Mr. C. Turner, Slough, for Roses, Azaleas, and Carnations.

SUvet-Qilt Flora Medals,

1. Messrs. Stanley-Mobbs & Ashton, Southgate, for Orchids.

2. Messrs. Cuthbert, Southgate, for Azaleas.

3. Martin Smith, Esq., Hayes, for Carnations.

4. Messrs. Jackman, Woking, for Clematis.

fi. Messrs. R. Smith, Worcester, for Clematis.

*!. The Guildford Hardy Plant Co., for Alpines.

7. Messrs. Kelway & Sons, Langport, for Pieoniea.

is. Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, Higbgate, for Flowering

Shrubs, &c.
9. Mr. J. Hill, Edmonton, for Ferns.

10. Messrs. Fromow «fc Sons, Cbiswick, for Maples.

11. Messrs. Wallace & Co., Colchester, for Lilies, &e.

12. Messrs. J. Waterer & Sons, Bagsbot, for Rhododendrons,

Ac,

Messrs. Cannell & Sjuis, Swanley, for Cannas, Gloxinias,

and Begonias.
Pantia Ualli, Esq., Ashtead, for Caladiums.
Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, West Norwood, for Caladiums

and Gloxinias.

Silver-gilt Knight ia» Medals.
A. Henderson, Esq., M.P., Faringdon, for Fruit,
Sir J. Pease, Bart., M.P., Guisborough, for Fruit.
Mrs. Wingfield, AmpthiU House, Ampthill, for Fruit and

Vegetables.
Mr. S, Mortimer, Farnham, for Fruit and Vegetables.

Silver-gilt Banksian Medals.

W. A. Gillett, Esq., Bishopstoke, for Orchids.

W. C. Walker, Esq., Winchmore Hill, for Orchid.

Messrs. B. S. Williams, Upper Holloway, for Orchid.

Mr. A. Perry, Winchmore Hill, for Herbaceous Plants.

Mr. W. Bull, Chelsea, for Dracaenas.

Messrs. J. BirkeDhead, Sale, for Fenis.

Mr. W. Ieetun, Putney, for Palms.

Swanley College, Kent, for Vegetables.

Mr. J. Russell, Richmond, for Hardy Plants and Azaleas.

Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, Sussex, for Herbaceous
Plants and Shrubs.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, Covent Garden, for Herbaceous
Plants.

Messrs. Carter ii Co., Holbom, for Caleeolareas, Vege-
tables, &c.

Silver Flora Medals.

Malcolm S. Cooke, Esq., Kingston, for Orchids.

Messrs. Cripps & Son, Tollbridge Wells, for Maples.
Silver Banksian Medals.

Ludwig Mond, Esq., Regent's Park, for Orchids.

Messrs. Webb, Stourbridge, for Gloxinias and Calceolarias.

Mr. Pritchard, Christchurch, for Herbaceous Plants.

Messrs. House, Bristol, for Violas.

Mr. Jannoch, Dersingham, for Lilies of the Valley.

Messrs. Van Waveren, Haarlem, for Astilbes.

Mr. W. Poupart, Twickenham, for Lilies of the Valley.

Messrs. Storrie, Dundee, for Auriculas.

Mr. T. Perkins, Nurlhampton, for Sycamores.

R. Hoffman, Esq., Dulwich, for Caladiums.

Mr. H. J. Jones, Lewisham, for Begonias.

The Countess of Limerick, St. Albans, for Fruit and
Vegetables.

Mr. Godfrey, Colchester, for Asparagus,

BRISTOL GARDENERS' MUTUAL
IMPROVEMENT.

TOMATO CULTIVATION.

A larcje number of members attended the first meeting of
the summer session to hear a paper on "Tomato Culture"
by Mr, C. Lock, the chairman of the Society.

In a paper bristling with useful hints on the subject. Mr.
Lock dealt with the mode of culture for early, mid-season,
and late crops. He stated that though a large number of
people grew Tomato-plants, not more than 10 per cent,
succeeded in obtaining the best results from them. He
recommended that the seed be sown thinly in shallow pans or
boxes, the seedlings to lie potted as early as possible into
3 inch pots, and when strong enough to be again re-potted or
planted in their fruiting quarters. The soil should be good
loam and manure, and when the tirst fruits are set, a mulch-
ing may be given. Mr. Lock also gave practical advice upon
the important subjects of ventilating, watering, and upon the
diseases that attack Tomatos. The variety recommended
above all others was Ham Green Favourite.

Prizes for brace of Cucumbers were awarded to Messis.
Marshall and Framfton ; and the Society's Certificate of
Merit was awarded to Mr. Suaddeck, for a fine specimen of
Cypripedium barbatum.

Exeter, who had a most artistic and effective display.
Bamboos, Maples, Coniferse, Cytisus, Rhododendrons were
arranged at the back, and lower down the surface was broken
by a waterfall and pond, iu which M. Marliac's new Lilies
were planted and bearing flowers. Crimson Rambler Roses
were trained up the pillars; one of these being 12 feet high
and full of bloom. The portion in the front was covered with
choice herbaceous plants and greenhouse shrubs. Sarracenias,
Callas, Magnolias, Hydrangea Mariesii, Carpenteria cali-
fornica, Gerbera Jameson i, the new Dimorphotheca Eckloni,
and Calla Elliottiana were particularly good. Messrs. G.
Cooling & Sons, Bath, showed Spanish Iris in quantity ; also
double Lilacs, Tea Roses in vases, and Fortin's large-flowered
Li:y of the Valley. Mr. W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, had tut
spikes of Lilacs ami choice varieties of Cannas, seedling, show
and zonal Pelargoniums, many new oriental Poppies, Car-
nations, Tropseolum Exmouth Yellow, &c. MY. Hooper, of
Bath, showed a collection of Pansies.

Among amateurs, B. H. Hill, Esq., Newcombes, Crediton
(gr., Mr. G. Locke), had a splendid group of plants. Major
BROi k, Exeter (gr., Mr. Rowland), had a large exhibit, in
which were many plants full of flower.

Walking in the grounds, in consequence of the soddened
state of the pathways, &c, was a matter of considerable
discomfort, but the horticultural tent was drier, and wis
frequently crowded with visitors.

THE BATH and WEST and SOUTHERN
COUNTIES.

May 24, 20.— The horticultural exhibits in connection with
the Exeter show of the above Society wore varied and
interesting, a large tent being devoted to this secfon.

Immediately on entering we noted a tine display from
Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate and Barnet, London
in which were many of the new varieties of double Azalea
mollis, a nice lot of Taheita Oranges bearing quantities of
fruit, Lilium Harrisianum, Calla Elliottiana, very choice, and
sumo capital plants of Malmaison and other Carnation?.
Messrs B. Brown & Sons, St. Thomas, Exeter, bad a capital
group of miscellaneous plants, full of flower, and some choice
wreaths, bouquets, &c. Messrs. Paul & Sons, Cheshunt,
Herts, occupied a large space", showing a number of spikes of
Amaryllis with large and showy flowers; P&onies in quantity,
a'so single and double-flowering Lilacs. Some standard and
dwarf Tea Roses were full of bloom, the new H.T. Dawn
being very well shown. The new Macartney berberifolia Rose,
hardy single yellow, and the Polyantha Rose, Psyche, were in
close proximity to tine standard and bush plants of Turner's
( 'limson Rambler, which, in this stand and several others in
the tent, were very freely flowered. Messrs. J. Laing & Sons,
Forest Hill, London, had nice Codiamms, Streptoearpus,
Begonias, and Ferns. Messrs. Barr & Sons, Covent Garden
and Long Ditton, Surrey, showed Darwin Tulips and Tulipa
species ; also a capital collection of single Pieonies and other
hardy flowers. Messrs. Kelway & Son, Langport, Somerset,
bad a large stand of tree Pieonies full of showy flowers. The
end of the tent was occupied by the Messrs. R. Veitch & Sons,

The Weather.

[The term "accumulated temperature ndicatesthe aggregate
amount, as well as the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42° Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degrees — a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number of hours.]

Temperature.

Rainfall.

Bright

Sun.

o

© i> ■

u 2 «
o53

Accumulated.

s

c

.5 .

K OB

f.GO
OjrH

Qr-T

CO

a

4>
O

a

£

i

in

R

n

3
S .
°1p

8
u

o> a c
S'3rt

n" W

o
u

L - -■

l* C GO

£3 <»

»2
o g

o ®

±•2

it*

§sfc

? B 3

£ E s

o 2 o

+ a

S3

§

3 o

£S

o

o

as

a '43
s

a a

m o

i*

<

M

3**

<

O*"!-^

H

s

z;

'$

o

£

V

Cm

Day-

Day-

Day-

Day-

lOths

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inch.

Ins.

0

6 -

32

IS

— 22

+ 3

5 -

95

20-7

42

2S

1

S -

30

IS

- 65 4- 23

S -

92

14 0

28

m

2

6 —

28

0

+ 57 - 91

1 +

85

10-2

35

2S

8

4 -

45

0

+ 100

- 103

2 +

77

9-2

24

36

4

5 —

40

1

+ 5S

- 145

2 +

77

11-5

24

S3

b

2 -

68

0

+ 133

- 181

2 _

07

9-9

28

88

6

5 -

35

5

- 31

- 47

3 -

01

22 1

21

29

7

4 -

41

0

+ 75

- 144

2 +

89

14 -S

22

32

8

1 -

66

0

+ 117

- 121

2 +

85

1S-S

27

36

9

3 -

42

0

+ 1

- 70

2 +

102

16 2

29

S2

10

2 -

64

0

+ SO - 53

2 +

87

19 3

41

36

*

1 -

82

0

+ 201) - 67
' 1

4 +

SI

131

39

43

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 Loudon, S.
Principal Grazing, t£c, Districts — 6, Scotland, W. ;
7, England, N.W. ; 8, England, S.W. ; 9, Ireland, N. ;
10, Ireland, 8. ; * Channel Islands,

THE PAST WEEK.

The following summary record of the weather throughout
the British Islands for the week ending May 27, is
furnished from the Meteorological Oflice :—

"The feather was unsettled, rainy, and fairly mild in most
parts of the kingdom during Hie earlier half of the week, but
subsequently became cold, tine, dry, and harsh generally.
Thunder and lightning were (Xperienced in many place-; at
about the middle of the period.

" The temperature was below the mean in all districts, th1
deficit ranging from 1" in 'England, S.W.,' and the 'Channel
Islands,' to ■• in ' Scotland, W.,' and the ' Midland Counties,'
iV in ' Scotland, N,' and ' England, N.E.,' and to as much as
S° in 'Scotland, E.' The highest of the maxima were
recorded on the 23rd over England and Ireland, and on the
27th in Scotland ; they ranged from 00° in ' England, S.,' and
u.l1 in ' Scotland, N. and E.,' and 'England, E.,' to 60" In thn
'Channel Islands' and 'England, N.W.,' to 57° in 'En -
land, N.E.' The lowest of the minima were registered on (he
27th, and ranged from 273 in ' Scotland, E.,' 29' in ' Scotia' d,
N.,' and 30° in the 'Midland Counties,' to 34" in' Scotland,
W.,' and ' England, E. and S.W.,' and to 45° in the 'Channel
Islands.'

" The rainfall was less than the mean iu Scotland as well

June 3, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

>36i

as in ' England, S., 'but rather more than tho normal in all
other districts.

" The bright sunshine was again deficient over the kingdom
as a whole, but exceeded the mean in ' Scotland, N.,' and just
equalled it in ' Ireland, S.' The percentage of the possible
duration ranged from 42 in 'Scotland, N.,' 41 in ' Ireland, S.,'
and 39 in tho * Channel Islands,' to 22 in 'England, N.W.,'
and 2L in 'Scotland, W.'"

Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Markets.

COVENT GARDEN, JUNE 1.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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 lor the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.]

Got Flowers, &c. — Average Wholesale Prices.

.d.

a. d. s. d.

16 —

— 40

2 0-30

Anemones, dozen

bunches

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms

Asparagus "Fern,"

bunch

Azalea, white, 12

bunches

Azalea mollis, per

dozen bunches ...
Bouvardias, per bun.
Carnations, per doz.

blooms

Cornflowers, dozen

bunches
Daffodils, per dozen

bunches

Eucharis, per dozen 2 0-30
Gardenias, per doz. 10-30
Hyacinths, Roman,

per doz. bunches
Jonquils, doz bun...
Iris, doz bunches...
I .i lniMi lougillorum,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

dozen bunches ...

2 0-30

6 0-90
0 4-06

16-30

3 0

2 6-40

4 0-60
10-20

6 0-90

s.d.

3 0-40

4 0-60
2 0-30

16-20

6 0-12 0
6 0-12 0

4 0-60
6 0- S 0

1 6-
4 0-

2 0
6 0

4 0-60
4 0-12 0

Artichokes, Globe,
per doz.

— Jerusalem, per
sieve

Asparagus, Tou-
louse

— Sprue

— Eng., natural,
per bundle ...

— Various others
Beans, Dwarfs.,

Channellslands,

lb

English, lb.

Longpods, in

crates
Beetroots, per doz.

— bushel

Broccoli, dozen ...

— crates

Cabbage, tally

— per bushel

— dozen

Carrots, new French ,

per bunch

— washed, in bags
Celery, New, per

bundle
Cress, doz. punnets
Cucumbers, per

doiei

Endive, French, per

dozen .. ...
Garlic, per lb.
Horseradish, New

English, bundle

— — loose per
doz., fine

— Foreign, per
bundle...

Leeks, per dozen

bunches
Lettuce, Cos, dozen

— Cabbage, dozen

s. d. s. d.

2 0-26;

16 —

0 11-1 3
0 6 —

2 0-30
10-20
16-20

3 0-50

4 0-60
2 0- S 0

6 0- S 0
0 8-10
0 6-13

0- 3 G

1 0-
0 9-

0 8-
0 S

0 S

1 o1

1 0

5 0
3 0

Marguerites, p. doz

bunches

Maidenhair Fern,

per doz. bunches
Mignonette, dz. bun.
Narcissus, White,

dozen bunches ...
Orchids, per dozen

blooms

Pa^onics, doz. bun.
Pelargoniums, doz.

bunches

— scarlet, doz.bun.
Roses (indoor), per

dozen

— Pink, per dozen

— Tea, white, per
dozen

— Perle, per doz.

— Safrauo, p. doz.
Smilax, per bunch
Spiraea, doz. bur....
Stock, doz. bunches
Sweet Peas, dozen

bunches ...
Tuberoses, 12 blms.
Tulips, per dozen...

V OETABLES. — AVERAGE WHOLESALE TRICES.

5. d. s. d.

Mint, natural, per

dozen bunches,

according to

size of bunches

( Mushrooms, house,

per lb

Onions, Egyptian,
cwt. bag ...

— New, bunches.

— picklers, sieve
I Parsley, doz. bun,
i — sieve

Peas, Channel Is-
lands, Frame
Telephone, lb.

— English, sieve

— French flats ...
Potatos, Bruce, Up-

to - Date, &c,

per ton ... SO 0-100 0

— NewJerseyKid-
neys.percwt. 13 0 —

— — Teneriffe,
per cwt. ...13 0- 14 0

— Lisbon, per box 4 0 —
Radishes, Round,

breakfast, per
dozen bunches

Rhubarb natural,
per dozen
2 0-30 Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen

Spinach, English,
per bushel ...

Tomatos, new
English, per lb.

— Channellslands,
p. lb

— Canary, boxes
two siies

Turnips, New

French, per

bunch

Watercress, p. doz.

bunches

Potatos.

Bruce, Main Crop, Up-to-Date, &e., 60s. to 90s.

Main Crop, 10Ds. to 110s. Jersey New, 12*. to 14s. per cwt ;

Canary, 13'. to 14s. ; Cherbourg and St. Malo, lis. to 12s. ;

LU1 ,per box, 4s. 61. to 4s. Od. John Bath, 32 an I 31, Welling-

t m Strc-I, Cousnt Garde i.

Remarks.— During the week Cabbage improved in price ;
Spinach declined, owing to larger supply ; Radishes plentiful,
and low in price ; New Potatos have a downward tendency,
and Gooseberries may be expected to be much less in price
ere the week ends. English Peas have commenced in sieves
or half- bushels. The Australian Grapes, called Daria (very
like the Almeria), in cases marked 30 lb. nett, come in fair
condition, packed, some in red-wood dust, some in cork-dust,
the last decidedly the better.

1 0

8 0
0 8-
2 6-
— 40
12 0-1S 0
5 0-60
19 2 6
10-13

0 6

4 0-50

1 6 —

16 —

1 6
0 3

2 0 2 6
16 —
10-12

10-10

3 0-36
0 8-10

4 0-

2 ti-

3 0
2 0
1 6

0 10-1 0
5 0 —
4 6-

0 4-

1 6-
1 3

0 8
2 6

0 6-16
0 6J-0 8
0 6- 0 S
3 0-60

0 4-00
0 4-06

; Dunbar

Adiantums, p. doz. 5
Aspidistras, p. doz. 18

— specimen, each 5
Bouvardias, p. doz. 18
Calceolaria, p. doz, 5
Euonymus, various,

per dozen
Ferns, in variety,
per dozen ... 4

— small, per 100 , 4
Ficus elastica, each 1
Foliage plants, var.

each

d. s. d,
0-7 0
0-36 0
0-10 0
0-42 0
0-9 0

6 0-18 0

0-12 0
0-6 0
0-5 0

10-50

Fuchsias, perdozen
Hydrangeas, p. doz.

— paniculata, doz.
Lycopodiums, doz.
Marguerite Daisy,

per dozen
Mignonette, p. doz.
Palms, various, ea.

— specimens, ea.
F-.huvniiiums, var.,

— 2onals, per doz 6 0-80
Roses, per dozen .. 6 0-90
Spira-as, per dozen 4 0-60

s. d.

5. d.

fi n-

10 0

6 0-

10 0

1S 0-

24 0

8 0-

•40

6 0-80

4 0-

S 0

1 0-

-15 0

21 0-03 0

6 0

10 0

Fruit.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Apples, Tasmanian
andVietoriau,
R i b s t o n s,
Pearmains,
New York
Pippin, Stur-
mer, Prince
Bismarck, &c,
per case

Apricots, box vari-
ous numbers ...

Bananas, per bunch

Cherries, sieve

— peck

— box

Figs, per dozen ...
Gooseberries, sieve
Grajws, Belgian A.,

per lb., new ...

— Australian,
White Daria, in
cases marked 30
lb., nett

s. d, s. d.

9 0-14 0

10-23
0 0-10 0
7 0 —
5 0 —

0 9- 1 6
2 0-80
4 0-50

1 0- 2 G

V, ii l,; u

Grapes, English,
Hambros, per
lb

— Channellslands
Hambros, per

lb 1

— Muscats p. 11>. 2
| Lemons, per case... 8

Lychees, Chinese,
packet, 1 lb. ... 1

Melons, each .. 1

Oranges, Murcia,
cases of 150 or
200 8

Peaches, A., per
dozen 8

— B , per doz. ... 4
Pines, St. Michaels,

each 3

Strawberries, p. lb. 3

— Seconds .. 1

— French, in bas-

kets, about 41b. 1

8. d. s. d.

19-26

0- -2 6
6-4 0
0-30 0

3-14

3-19

0-18 o
0-6 0

6- 6 0
0- 1 6
0-2 0

0- 1 6

SEEDS.

Lontion : Jlfi/i/31.— Messrs. John Shaw &, Sons, Seed Mer-
chants, of Gn*at Maze Pond, Borough, London, S.E., write
that to day s seed market, as was t'> be expected, proved bare
alike of buyers and of business. The season being over,
Clover seed is now naturally a dead letter. Occasional small
orders still drop in fur spring Tares. As regards sowing
Mustard and Rapeseed, the market is very strong. Blue
Peas and Haricot Beans are also linn; whilst in Canary-seed,
a greatly improved feeling is shown, and as the result of
persistent had crop reports, and consequent speculative buy-
ing t hereon, a substantial advance in values has been
established. Qempseed, moreover, continues scarce and
dear, Linseed is steady. More money is asked for Scarlet
Runners.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per Imperial qr.), for the
week ending May 27, and for the corresponding period of
180S, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Official Weekly Return : —

Description.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

Barley

Oats

s. d.
47 9
2li 5
21 5

s. d.
25 2

23 S

17 S

s. d.

- 22 7

- 2 11

- 3 9

FRTJIT AND VEGETABLES.

Glasgow: May SI.— The following are the averages of the
prices recorded since onr last report: — Apples, Canadian
Spies, 14s. to 18s. per barrel ; "Western States' Russets,
18s. to 20s. do. ; Oranges, (it/, to Is. per dozen ; Grapes,
home, 2s. to 4s. 6(7. per lb. ; do., foreign, Gd. do. ; Tomatos,
Guernsey, 4*7. to S<7. per lb. ; do., Scotch, 5d. to 8<7. do. ;
Cabbages, Spring, 6d. to Is. per dozen; Leeks, 2s. to 2s. Gd.
per dozen bunches ; Mint, green, Gd. per bunch ; Onions,
4s. Gd. to 5s. per cwt. ; Parsley, "is. to 2s. 6d. per stone ;
Carrots, new, Is. per bunch, and 4s. 6i7. to 8s. per cwt. ;
Cucumbers, id. to bd. each ; Lettuces, round, Is. 3d. to Is. Gd.
per dozen; do., Cos, 4s. to 5s. do. ; Radishes, long, English,
Is. Gd. per dozen bunches ; round, do., Is. Gd. to 2s. do. ;
Horseradish, Is. Gd. to 2s. per bundle ; Mushrooms, Is. to
Is. Cc7. per lb. ; Beetroots, 6d. to 7d. per dozen ; Mustard and
Cress, 3d. per punnet ; Spinach, 2s. to 4s. per stone ; Rhubarb,
2s. Go*, to 3s. Gd. per cwt. ; Turnips, French, white, Is. to
Is. 3d. per bunch; Swedes, 2s. to 2s. Gd. per bag; BroccoIis
Irish, 2s. to 2s. Gd per dozen ; Greens, 5s. to Gs. per 10 dozen.

Liverpool: May 31. — wholesale Vegetable Market.—
Potatos, per cwt., Main Crop, 3s. s(7. to 4s. ; Bruce, 2s. 9d.
to 3s. Gd. ; Champion, 2s. Gd. to 3s. ; Turnips, Swedes, 2s. 6d.
do. ; Carrots, Gs. Gd. to Gs. do. ; Parsley, Gd. to Sd. per dozen
bunches; Onions, foreign, 4s. to 5s. per cwt.; Lettuces, S(7.
to Is. per dozen ; Cucumbers, Is. 3d. to 3s. per dozen ;
Cauliflowers, Is. 3d. to 3s. do. ; Cabbages, KM. to Is. 6d. do.
St. Jo7a/i's.— Potatos, is. to Is. 3d. per peck ; do., new, 2d. to 3 '.
per lb.; Grapes, home, 2s. Gd. to 4s. do.; Pines, English,
4*. to 6s. each; Strawberries, Gd. to Is. per lb. ; Peas, 4(7. to
Is. per lb.; Cherries, 61. to Is. do.; Cob Nuts, Gd. do. ;
Apricots, Is. per dozen ; Asparagus, 2s. Gd. to 4s. per 100 ; do.,
bundle, Is. Gd. to 3s.; Cucumbers, 3(7. to 4i7. each; Mush-
rooms, Is. 4i7. per pouud and basket. Birkenhead.— Pota-

tos, Is. to Is. 2d. per peck; do. new, IV?. to 3d. per lb. ;
Peas, 3d. to 5d do. ; Asparagus, Is. 9<L to 4s. per 100; Cucum-
bers, 3d. to Gd. each; Strawberries, Gd. to Is. per lb.';
Cherries, 0(7. to lOd. do.; Apricots, Is. per dozen; Goose-
berries, 4c7. to Gd. per lb. ; Grapes, home, 3s. tu 3;s. Gd. do. ;
Mushrooms, Is. to Is. Gd. do.

South African Notes.

THE EFFECT OF FROST ON TROPICAL
PLANTS.

The greatest cold registered here for several years
was 21° below freezing-point, Fahr. , on the night
of July 10, 1S98, under a screen 4 feet from the
ground. The cold was severe enough to burst
water-taps in the open, and long icicles formed
under our fountain, remaining unmelted for several
days. No rain fell or snow, the air being very
dry. Many half-hardy plants were killed, but
several tropical subjects survived.

Aristolochia oruithocephala on a trellis in the
open was quite dead above ground, but to my
surprise it sent up a strong shoot as the summer
came on, and is now (March) flowering very well.
A companion plant of A. elegans was also hard hit,
and is now growing well, but has produced no
flowers. Gerbera Jamesoni I gave up for lost,
but it soon sent up fino leaves and flowers ; this is
one of the very best native flowering herbaceous
plants that we have. Coba>a scandens was quite
killed, as was Pittosporum undulatum. Mesem-
bryanthemums just survived, as also Pelargoniums
and Fuchsias, though F. corymbirlora under a wall
was killed. Mackaya bella died, but Gardenia
Thunbergi pulled through. Fourcroya Lindeui
and Bromelia bracteata, it is strange to say, look
none the worse after being frozen hard ; Pan-
cratium calathiuum proved quite hardy ; also
Hedychium Gardnerianum, Caladium esculentum,
Tweediea ca>rulea, Thunbergia uatalensis, Laurus
Camphora, Acacia cultriformis, Melaleuca speciosa,
and Solanum jasminoides. Araucaria Bidwilli,
A. Cunninghami, and A. excelsa lost their tops ;
Musa Ensete survived with a thick grass thatch-
ing ; Leonotis Leonurus, YVigandia urens, a tine
hybrid Passirlora (much like P. quadrangularis),
Lagerstrcemia indica, most hybrid Abutilons
(except A. megapotamicum, which is quite hardy),
Habrothaniuus elegans, H. aurautiacus, Metro-
sideros decussata, and Bougainvilleas were all cut
to the ground, but shot up again from the roots.
Passiflora edulis, Bouvardias, Ricinus communis,
hybrid Salvias, and Brugmansia suaveoleus were
nearly killed ; Encephalartos cafifra and E. villosus
survived ; Nympham eo?rulea proved quite hardy.

Amongst trees, Grevillea robusta, Eucalyptus
robusta, E. leucoxjlou, and young E. Globulus lost
their leaves, but soon revived. Eucalyptus citrio-
dorus was killed to the ground, but it eventually
sent up a strong shoot. Eucalyptus terminalis
was quite untouched ; Casuarina tenuissima was
badly scorched ; Acacia melanoxylon, A. mollissima,
and A. dealbata, proved hardy. It was remark-
able to see the last-named a mass of goldeu bloom
at a time when the frost was most severe; even
the half-expanded flowers were uninjured. Also
flowering in mid-winter were Sutherlandia frutes-
cens and Buddleia salvifolia.

Such plants as Tuberoses, hybrid Canuas, Spa-
raxis pendula, Richardias, and dwarf Bamboos,
came through the ordeal all right. Bambusa arun-
dinacea (Giant Indian Bamboo) was killed to the
ground, but afterwards sent up fresh growth.
Tree-Ferns and Palms, I have learnt from experi-
ence, never to plant in the open, as the wind and
dust-storms soon render them miserable objects.
Indian Azaleas, Camellias, and Rhododendrons, in
tubs under a trellis, did not lose a leaf. Young
Lemon-trees were cut to the ground. The only
species amongst Cacti which will endure the winter
frost is the Prickly Pear (Opuntia vulgaris). Of a
large collection of Yuccas, none was injured. The
Y. Wipplei does very well here. i?. W. Adlam,
Joubert Park, Johannesburg.

368

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[June 3, 1899.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Chantrier Freres, Mortefontaine, Plailly, Oise, Franco-
Stove and Greenhouse Plants, Palms, Ferns, Orchids, &c.

John Peed & Son, Roupel Park Nursery, London, S.E.—
Caladiums, Codia?ums, Cordylines, &c.

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

Mr. W. E. Hinton, formerly Gardener at The Grove, Epsom,
as Gardener to Nevile Reid, Esq., The Oaks, Hanworth,
Middlesex.

Mr. W. E. Wynne, as Gardener to R. Francies, Esq., Crotton
Hall, Orpington, Kent.

Mr. John Harriss, lately of Balchitha Gardens, Greenock,
and at present in Messrs. Ker & Son's Aigburtli Nursery,
Liverpool, as Head Gardener to C. Taylor, Esq., Ash
Grange, Whitchurch, Shropshire.

Mr. James Bell, for the past four years Foreman in the
Gardens, Jesmond Towers, Newcastle-on-Tyne, as Head
Gardener to A. Henderson, Esq., Leazes House,
Durham.

Mr. Wm. Arthur, as Head Gardener to F. B. Atkinson,
Cresswell Hall, Morpeth.

Mr. James Dent, late Gardener at Downton Castle, Hereford-
shire, as Head Gardener to the Hon. Mrs. Barton,
Luttrellstown Castle, Clonsilla, Co. Dublin.

Enquiry.

> —

Twice-named Plants. — An enquirer asks if
there is any law forbidding the offer for sale, nuder
a new name, of an established variety, or one pre-
viously introduced ? We do not know of any
special legislation, beyond the ordinary law for the
repression of fraxtd and misrepresentation.

orrcjfoordenU

A Collection of Salad : Mrs. S. C. H. In
the month of August, the collection might con-
sist of Lettuces, Cos and Cabbage varieties ;
Radishes, long, medium, and Turnip-rooted ;
Cresses, various, including Normandy and Water-
Cress ; Egyptian Beetroot, young Onions, the
earliest blanched Celery, Cucumbers, Tomatos,
Gherkins, Tarragon, tender leaves of Sorrel,
bulbs of Garlic, and Shallots. From these nine
kinds could be selected according to fancy.

Apple Shoots : Correspondent. We do not find
any fungus. The appearance may bo due to frost
attacking the young leaves.

Bud in Axil of Leaf of Tulip : G. H. I). Not an
uncommon occurrence. A bulb is only a bud,
and if at this season you will look at young
growing shoots you will find such a bud iu the
axil of many of the leaves.

Cucumber Leaves : M. O. We do not find any
insect or fungus on your leaves. The appearance
is due to "scald," probably produced by syring-
ing when the sun is out, or from deficient shading,
or perhaps from bad glass.

Dendrobiums : D. McK. It is not possible to
name such miserable scraps which, wrapped in
cotton-wool, have passed through the post in a
letter, and, of course, were smashed and shrivelled
out of recognition. Such things should be packed
in a tin or wooden box, in green-moss or sphag.
num-moss, or in moistened blotting-paper, they
then travel in good condition.

Dendrobium infundibulum : It. R. In your
flower there are two sepals and two petals, all
regular, aud placed cross-wise. It is a case of
reduction in the number of parts, and of regular
peloria, the segments being all equal.

Hyacinths : A'. }". Z. No. 4. The disease on
Hyacinths is due to a fungus, Uromyces scil-
larum. The clusters of black spots arranged in
a nearly concentric manner are characteristic.
The same fungus occurs on the Wild Hyacinth,
and has probably come from the woods into the
garden. To check, spray with potassium sul-
phide (\ oz. to each gallon of water), or Bordeaux
Mixture, beginning as soon as the shootB show

above ground, and continued every two or three
weeks. W. G. S., Leeds.

Insects : 0. E. G. Sirex gigas, injurious to
growing trees.

Lilacs : G. H. The sport might be propagated by
cuttings, or by grafts on the common Lilac.

Mango Cultivation : L. E. S. Unless your stove
is of great height the plant must be grown as an
orchard fruit-tree under glass, that is, restricted
as to rootiog space, by planting it in a big pot,
tub, or walled pit in a border, and pinching the
lateral shoots, stopping leaders, and thiuning-out
weak shoots growing in the interior of the crown.
For the first few years, however, allow the plant
to develop the frame-work, as it were, of a
crown, not practising much restriction either at
root or top ; this can follow later when the plant
is approaching the limits of extension. The soil
should consist chiefly of sandy-loam of good
quality, and not much solid manure, as aids to
growth can be better afforded by manurial top-
dressings such as stable-manure, potash, super-
phosphates, nitrate of soda (a little), or by
manure- water. When the plant flowers, means
should be taken by shaking them, or applying a
pair of bellows gently, to distribute the pollen.
The plant will succeed under ordinary hot-house
culture, or it would do in fruiting Pine-stove.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — Mrs. H. The Lotus is
L. peliorhyuchus (Pigeon's Beak), a native of
Teneriffe. We are unable to name the Pruuus
from the scrap received. — H. B. Specimens all
shrivelled. 1, lllieiuin anisatum ; 2, Amelanchier
vulgaris ; 3, Jasminum ; 4, Panax species ;
5, an Oncidium which is not recognisable in
its present withered state. — Mallow. 1, Cle-
matis montana ; 2, Cerasus ; 3, Purple Beech ;

4, Acer eriocarpum ; 5, Orchis mascula ; 6, cut-
leaved Beech ; 7, Acer Negundo variegatum ; 8,
A. monspessulanum ; 9, Spmeaprunifolia, double
var. ; 10, Saxifraga sarmentosa. Another time
do not send more than six at a time ; our time is
valuable. — C. L. Cymbidium aloifolium. —
A". Y. Z. Sent in round tin box. 1, Begonia
riciuifolia mauicata ; 2, Begonia argyrostigma ;
3, Dendrobium crepidatum. — H. B. 4, Panax
elegans. — F. A. The fungus is Coprinus fus-
cescens, Schff. M. C. C. — Lady Cecil Scott Mon-
tague. Morea spathacea, Ker. (Uietes Hookeri,
Hook.), native of Cape of Good Hope. — A. U.
The single -flowered Russian Violet, a variety of
Viola odorata. — L. W. F. Styrax officinale. —
J. B. H. Piptanthus nepalensis, commonly
called Natal Laburnum. — IT. E. L. 1, Lotus
peliorhyuchus ; 2, PolygalaDalmaisiana; 3, Cistus
ladaniferus ; 4, Aubrietia deltoidea var. ; 5,
Alyssum calycinum ; 6, Polygonatum vulgare.

—Heather. Apparently it is Calluna vulgaris, but
it is drawn and out of character. — J. B. Leuco-
thoe Catesbffi. — G. D. 1, Zenobia speciosa ; 2,
Berberis vulgaris ; 3, Ruscus aculeatus ; 4,
Spiraea cham.-edrifolia ; 5, Berberis Wallichiana ;
G, Ligustrum coriaceum. — Constant Reader. Den-
drobium tortile. — R. T. D. Hyacinthus comosus.
— W. W. J. <(■ Son, Boston. 1, Allium ursinum ;
2, Stellaria Holosteum ; 3, Sedum spurium ; 4,
Saxifraga hypnoides ; 5, Asperula odorata, Send
a specimen of the shrub. — F. Prince. Edwardsia
grandiflora. — Merodon. Solanum jasminoides ;
the flowers usually are white when grown under
glass, in the open they are tinged with blue. —
C. W. D. Auemone albana, var. flavescens,
Regel. — F. Bowen. 1, La>lia purpurata Schroderi ;
2, La'lia 'purpurata of good type ; 3, Odonto-
glossum crispum guttatum ; 4, Odoutoglossum
crispum, very fine ; 5, Cattleya Mendeli, good
forms ; 0, Miltonia vexillaria, very bright iu
colour and large in size ; 7, Cattleya Mossiae ; 8,
Odontoglossum luteo-purpureum.

Narcissus : T. L. The arrest of growth is very
common. In our own garden the same thing
occurs regularly every year, but we have not
been able to ascertain the cause.

Nine Sorts of Vegetable for Exhibition : Mrs.

5. C. H. These would differ with the date of
the exhibition, but taking August as the mouth,
the nine might consist of Peas, Freuch Beaus,
Globe Artichokes, Potatos, Round and Kidney ;
spring-sown Onions, Cauliflowers, Cabbage, and
Carrots. Others that would be considered by
the judges of less value at that date are, Broad
Beans, Parsnips, Early Savoys, Butter Beaus,

Celery, Beetroot, R,unuer Beans, Turnips, and

Vegetable-Marrows.

Peaches : H. A. D. The leaves appear to be
suffering from the Silver-leaf disease, a malady '
common on Plums and other stone-fruits. It is
said to be curable by an application of sulphate
of iron to the soil, after lifting the tree in the
autumn.

Peaches Dropping : E. E. The more probable
cause is dryness and exhaustion of the soil,
seeing that you have growing in a space of
" 3 yards square " two Vines and two Peach-
trees — space scarcely more than sufficient for one
plant. The applications of water may have been
insufficient in quantity to reach every part of the
border.

Pear Blossoms : F. L. The flowers have not
been properly fertilised, and are therefore abor-
tive. Another time encourage the bees.

Roses : J. R. Apparently Crimson Rambler, and
the Double Macartney.

Soil and Insects: C. S., Ipswich. There are
some immature larvae in the soil, but we cannot
tell what they are. Mustard, in powder, mixed
with the soil is injurious to some of these crea-
tures. It can do no harm to try it in your case ;
or Mustard-plants may be grown and ploughed in.

Tomatos Diseased : C. J. The specimens present
all the stages of Tomato "Sleepy" disease, as
described and figured by Mr. Massee in this
paper on June 8, 1895. The following is the
treatment recommended in that paper : " Spray-
ing with a fungicide is of no avail, as the roots
are first attacked, and the parasite is internal.
As much lime as the plants will allow should be
mixed with the soil, more especially if the plants
are grown during successive seasons in the same
beds. If the plants in a house are badly attacked,
all the soil should be removed, and the walls,
&c, sterilised by a wash of lime. The infected
soil removed from a bed should not be thrown
out at random, but should be »terilised by mixing
with quicklime."

Tomatos and Manure : W. J. G. If green cow-
ditDg or any other animal manure be used, it
should first be mixed with a large quantity of
water in a tub, stood in the sunshine, and
allowed to ferment for a week, and if the ferment
does not then subside a sufficient quantity of
white vitriol should be added to stop it, as too
great fermentation spoils manure-water. As an
artificial, given along with farm-yard manure,
nothing is better than commercial potash, and
the next best, wood-ashes from green wood.
Kaiuit might be afforded at the rate of 2 to 3
ounces per square yard.

Tulip : R. C. We cannot name florists' varieties.
Send to some grower.

Tulips : X. Y. Z. No. 2. The Tulips are badly
attacked in the same way as described in this
column last year (May 21, 1898, p. 320). The
fungus is almost the same as that which attacks
Lilies aud Onions (seo Gardeners' Chronicle,
August 11, 1894). Bordeaux Mixture applied
early would check the disease, but we doubt if
anything short of a thorough clear out will do
any good in the present case.

Vines : C. T. M. The Vines may be starved, or
they were greatly over-cropped last year ; more
than that we cannot say without seeing the Vines,

CoMMl nications Received.— Sutton A- Sons.— J. Carter* Co.
— W. (i. S.-W. J. J— M. B.-W. T. T. D.— A de la D.
_li R. W.— D. T. F.— J. B.— John Cowan & Co.— W. H.—
A P.— W. A.— W. 0.— W. T. T.— F. A. W., Burlington,
USA — O. E. G.— J. C. & Co.— A. H.— W. & J. B.— H.
Colder. — F. B. — H. Friend.— R. M.— W. S.— C. de. B. -
R. P. B. — D. R. W.— R. D.— E. C. — C. D. T. — Key.—
C. S. G.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
E. R.— Earl of A.— F. A. White.— D. T. F.— P. & Sons.

Important to Advertisers. — J7" «**' 1>M

the satisfaction of announcing that the circulation of the
"Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in tht
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle' circulates among
Coitntry Gentlemen, and all Classes of Gardeners
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large
Foreign and Colonial Circulation and that it is
preserved for reference in all th- r'incipal TMtari«s.

June 10, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

369

THE

No. mo.— SATURDAY, JUNE 10, 1899.

SEA-SIDE PLANTING.
TJEING a resident on the south-coast, and
-*-* acquainted with the very varied shore-
line from Cromer to the North Foreland, and
from there to Beachy Head, I think, perhaps,
my experience of the trees and shrubs suitable
to plant in such exposed positions may be of
interest to your readers, so I will endeavour,
following up what was stated in your leading
article on p. M38, to impart what I have learned
by both success and failure, as regards the
decoration of sea - fronts from a landscape
gardener's point of view.

With more or less wisdom, local authorities
in sea - side resorts are expending thousands of
the ratepayer's money on the improvement and
decoration of their sea-fronts. Few, if any, of
these bodies kuow anything of even the first prin-
ciples of applied botany, and thus we have grievous
and expensive mistakes too frequently made in sea-
side planting, even where the advice of a skilled
gardener ia not wanting. I could cite many
instances of this, the year preceding the Jubilee
celebrations being prolific in such hastily-planned
and ill-judged work, for thousands of tine specimens
of trees, Conifers, and shrubs were, as one may
say, offered up as sacrifices before the throne of
royalty, only to linger on a miserable existence, and
finally to end on the rubbish-heap, or furnace of
the dust-destructor.

It would be unfair to particularise, as all more
or less fell into error, and wasted good material and
money on useless planting of salt -spray wetted
banks or storm-swept shores, with ill-chosen and
improper subjects, drawn indiscriminately from
Surrey or even metropolitan nurseries. They have
been purchased generally by tbe borough surveyor
or some member of the corporation, who poses as an
authority in such matters ; for it is a fact, though
painful to relate, that the advice of a nurseryman,
who has lived a long life at the seaside, and bought
his experience dearly, is rarely if ever taken, and
thus many grave errors are perpetrated that might
have been avoided. One instance I will cite, where
"the authority," aiming to avoid disturbing the
concrete of the parade, went to the great expense
of having a lot of large tubs made, painted green,
with black hoops and handles. In these were
planted a mixed collection of Conifers, evergreen
and deciduous shrubs, which had been prepared
for the work, and when these had to a certain
extent established themselves, they were early
one morning placed at intervals along the
sea-frout, to the admiration of the visitors and
residents, who, in their ignorance, thought the
difficulty of adorning the esplanade solved. There
were Golden Elders in grand colour, Lilacs showing
flower. Conifers of handsome pyramidal habit and
growth, and of varied shades of green and gold, and
the useful Japan Euonymus, both golden and
green-leaved — indeed, a very creditable lot of
plants.

Old hands shook their heads and said little, but
the young knowing ones were quick to exclaim,
" Very pretty, but wait till we have a strong
south-west gale, and then see what you think of
it ! " Alas ! too soon black clouds piled up iu the
west, and presently it began to blow with increas-
ing violence till the next morning, when a sad sight

met the view of the early-risers. The soft-leaved,
deciduous shrubs were bared on the wind side, the
Conifers and most of the evergreens browned and
discoloured, the Japanese Spindle-trees (Euonymus
j»ponica) being the only subjects that escaped,
while even they were discoloured and broken.

This was repeated in many of the coast towns of
our sea-girt " tight little island ; " and even when
the planters had thoughtfully placed a Tamarisk
hedge, or sheltered the shrub borders with large
meshed sheep-netting, the shrubs were only par-
tially saved. We may learn from this, first, that
a lasting and efficient shelter must be secured, and
then only the well and truly tried hardy shrubs
planted, if success be courted. As a hedge or shelter
there is nothing so dependable as the Tamarisk,
the small, dense-growing kind known as T. gallica,
being best for this purpose ; though the so-called
German Tamarisk, Myriearia germanica, forms
pretty, free-flowering, single specimens, where
planted separately. Yet another of the genus
coming to us from the African shores of the
Mediterranean is larger in all its parts, but is
not so hardy as the two first named. These are
easily propagated by cuttings taken of the ripe
wood, and to form a shelter should be plauted
when about a foot high, nine inches apart in
a single row, or a foot apart if a double hedge
is contemplated. When established, cut down to
6 inches, and in a very short time you will have an
effective hedge, which will only need an occasional
trimming to keep it neat and serviceable, w Leu it
will take care of itself. T. gallica certainly forms
the best hedge of the three varieties, and is an
elegant and graceful growing plant. A lady
friend of mine, dilating on the wonderfully mild
climate of Bournemouth, said in my hearing
' ' Why, they make hedges there of the Asparagus
Fern," this being the common Dame of Asparagus
plumosus ; but when I had the chance to put a
leading question to her, "Have you seen it
flower"' she quickly replied, "Oh, yes, it flowers
in little spikes of pinkish or salmon flowers at the
tips," and theu I knew it to be simply the Tamarisk,
which, though it may not be quite so light and
elegant as the Asparagus, is certainly graceful.

Allied to the Potato, another plant must take
the second place as a shelter or hedge plaut, namely,
Lycium harharum. known in the country as the
Tea-tree. This may be frequently seen planted by
the porches of cottages, where it forms a leafy
screen in summer, and after giving its grey-bine
blossoms in profusion, is iu some seasons covered
with small, Plum-like fruits, coloured red, like
Tomatos. It grows very rapidly, produces suckers
abundantly, and will stand frequent trimming, so it
makes an effectual hedge or screen. Though a salt-
laden gale will brown the leaves, yet it soon grows
again, while it is so twiggy, and at the same time
sparsely armed with woody thorns, that it may be
used at the sea-side to make hedges, and as it
grows so quickly, it is most useful in the summer
to form screens for bedding-plants or tender shrubs
in such situations. It may be raised from seed or
cuttings at any time of the year, and may be
plauted alternately with Tamarix iu the hedge-line
as it will impart a stiffness to the fence as it gets older

and more woody. A variety — Lycium europ.'eum

is much more thorny, but I fear, unless on the
south coast, would not survive our winters.

In enumerating shelter plants, we must on no
account forget the Japan Spindle-tree, Euonymus
japonica, now available in many excellent varie-
ties, from the small-leaved, stiff, erect-growing
type, known as Euonymus sempervireus, to the
pretty miniature foliaged sort, called in nurseries
" pulchellus ; " the only thing possible to urge
against it, that even in the South, winters that
register anything like 20° of frost, will kill it to the
ground, and temperatures of even less severity will
cause it to drop its leaves, though it generally
recovers before midsummer. Where it thrives,
however, nothing we have makes a closer or
more elegant hedge or compact screen to kee]3
off cold or strong winds from foliage or

bedding - plants during summer, while though
it may lose all its foliage in sharp winters,
yet its very compact and twiggy growth will
always serve to make it a good screen, and by
introducing the kind whioh develops a golden-
tipped growth in spring, called by the common folk
flowering, or the broad-leaved golden variegated
variety (Ovata aurea) into the hedge, the monotony
of greenery is broken, and a useful and very orna-
mental fence formed. The importance of this ever-
green is proved by a nurseryman in the [South,
devoting nearly the whole^ of his acreage' to its
culture.

I hate to dogmatise, but think it would be quite
safe to state that not only this, but all the Japanese
shrubs and trees, especially those indigenous to the
north island, are hardy in Britain and Ireland, and
coming to us from a land swept by gales from off
the seas, they are by environment naturally ^well-
fitted for seaside work.

Before going further it will be best to state that
it is always unsafe to use large specimens of auy
kind for marine planting, as though you may
shelter and secure the stakes, yet the wind will take
no account of these precautions, and will twist and
sway the poor shrubs to and fro, round and round, till
they are at last either uprooted, or all the anchoring
roots are twisted or severed, and the plant ruined
or may be killed. The smaller, therefore, the
stuff chosen the better, and my experience also
compels me to say, that the rule as to early
planting, so wiso in the case of inland work, must
in our particular case be ignored, so as to let the
strong gales of winter and the dryiDg east winds of
March pass ; and then towards the middle of April
up to the end of May do your work, first using
your trees and deciduous shrubs, and finishing
with the few Conifers, and lastly the evergreen
Bhrubs.

No doubt, knowing ones among the local authori-
ties will severely criticise, and remark, "You are
supplying poor, undersized stuff ; " but try and
turn a deaf ear to all this, and ' ' gang yer ain wa',"
as my Scotch friends say, for in the end you will
be right.

Having provided a little for screening with low
banks and hedges, let us now take the Conifers, of
which very few- thrive by the sea. Among Pines,
as its name indicates, Pinus Pinaster or maritima
ranks first, but, unfortunately, this is such
a bad subject to transplant, that from the open
ground nothing over 1 foot in height is safe,
and if in pots, 2 to 3 feet is ample ; but in the
latter case, let the planter beware, as in the
majority of cases such plants will be corkscrew
rooted, and so may blow out of the ground unless
securely staked for a year or two. Next to this
ranks the Pinus Laricio, a far more handsome Fir
from Corsica and the Mediterranean coast ; and
thirdly, the dark and handsome Pinus austriaca
but this must be planted quite away from the
spray line, or it gets browned and unsightly.
[In our experience this is the best of the Pines for
seaside work. Ed.] The Scots Fir (P. sylvestris)
does not thrive by the sea in the south, though
its dwarf sub-variety, called in nurseries l'iuus
montana, will grow where not exposed directly
to the sea-breeze. [AniODg true Pines, P. inops,
P. contorta, and P. insignis, do well on the south
coast. Ed.]

Of all Conifers that really thrive on our coasts
none exceed in luxuriance and beauty Cupressus
macrocarpa, or Lambertiana ; though under the
latter name, I grew a much brighter green shrub
than macrocarpa for years, the stock-plants of
which, if my memory serves me, came from the
late Mr. T. Cripps, of Tunbridge Wells.

This was certainly different from macrocarpa,
grown side by side in the nursery, not only by its
brighter green colour, but its more slender and
compact growth. Whatever we may call it, there
can be no doubt of its suitability for seaside work,
its only drawback being that it is very apt on i ich
Soils to become top-heavy, the root not having
fibre enough to anchor it firmly, unless it be

370

THE GAS DE NEB 8' CHS ONI CLE.

[June 10, 1899.

planted on a rocky stratum, when, as our editor
suggested in a former paper of mine, the woody,
tough roots find their way between the crevices of
the rock, and firmly hold the Cypress in the soil.
This fault is often aggravated by using plants that
have made corkscrew roots in their nursery pots,
and such, even with the most careful planting, are
apt to be blown over by strong winds, even after
some years have passed since the planting. Select,
therefore, small specimens of this Conifer, and so
avoid after-disappointment.

The Nootka Sound Cypress, Thuiopsis borealis
of nurseries, Cupressus Nootkaensis of Veitch, is a
good Conifer where it can be planted in a position
not too much exposed to sea gales, and forms a
diffuse though elegaDt pyramidal specimen where it
is allowed space to develop ; but a more compact,
and perhaps quite as hardy shrub is the Chinese
Juniper (Juniperus sinensis), and a sub-variety of
the Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana), called J.
Schotti, seems to battle with and resist salt-laden
gales very fairly.

To finish the Conifers, mention must be made of
the Japanese Retinosporas ; if we except the soft
plumose section, all can be planted near the verges
or paths, and make a most effective finish where
the glaucous blue kinds, as Retinospora ericoides is
contrasted with golden-tinted sorts, as " obtusa nana
aurea," "Tetragona aurea," &c.

None of the Yews are entirely satisfactory,
though the Japanese and Korean varieties of Podo-
carpus have stood well in most cases, and the
Prumnopytis elegans may be planted here and
there to give grace and variety to the work.

Now come the numerous evergreen and sub-
evergreen shrubs, and for the south and west coast,
as has been before stated, nothing surpasses the
Euonymus japoniea, all the varieties of which
should be used, the erect growiDg green and
variegated sorts as single specimens, and the green
and variegated species — radicans, and radicaus
variegata, utilised as neat edging plauts, or where
rockwork is introduced, or rocky banks utilised,
and I certainly approve of this wherever practicable ;
plant these in every available pocket or crevice left
between the stones or boulders. Among the very
best of the first-named, select Euonymus ovata and
ovata aurea, but the silver margined sort is very
tender, and is, indeed, no great acquisition. A
new kind, called on the Continent Siuboldiaua
ignota, though carrying very handsome large
leaves, is ouly fit for the cool conservatory or
orangery. Scarcely one of the Laurels is entirely
satisfying, but the two best are called caucasicum
and rotundifolium. The Aucuba japoDica should
only be planted where it can have partial shade
and shelter, and theu the green forms viridis
(ovata), both male and female, are to be preferred,
as they are stiffer and more compact than any
other, and when covered with their large red fruits
are really handsome.

Among berry-beariug shrubs Cotoneaster Simonsii
deserves a place — even when raised from seed tliey
soon make ueat little plants, and fruit freely ;
while for foliage contrast the silvery -leaved Oracbe,
Atriplex Halimus and portulacoides, or canescens,
which may with advantage be dotted here and there
among the green shrubs. Experience, J/ny.'fO, 1S99.
(To be continued.)

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

L.KLIA PURPURATA SCHRODERI.

Tins puzzling section of Ladia purpurata, so
widely differeut from the type, has caused some to
regard it as a distinct species, or probably a hybrid
of L. grandis. The late Professor Reicheubach's
L. Wyattiana is very close to this, and the inter-
mediate forms between it and the typical L. pur-
purata leave no excuse for separating either from
the species.

A line flower of L. purpurata Schroderi is sent
by H. Cary Batten, Esq., Leigh Lodge, Abbot's
Leigh, Bristol. The sepals and petals are white ;

the lip also white, with a slight rose-coloured
tinge in the centre, behind which the tube is tinted
pale yellow, with fine, dark purple lines.

Cattleya Mendeli.

This is the favourite Cattleya of mauy Orchid-
growers, not only on account of its beauty, but
because it is a grateful plant, that always rewards
the gardener for the care bestowed upon it. In
most collections its Mowers are now among the most
admired of those in bloom, and many and varied
specimens have been received.

One of the most beautiful is sent by Mr. Richard
Cairns, gr. to J. M. White, Esq., Balruddery, near
Dundee. The sepals are white, with a slight rose
flush ; the petals are clear white, crimped slightly,
fringed, and measure over 7 inches from tip to tip.
The handsome lip is yellowish-white on the outside,
and bright yellow with rose-coloured lines inside,
the front lobe being bright rose-purple. This bloom
was slightly injured in expanding, but it promises
to be even better when fairly developed. J. OB.

BlKRENARIA HaRRISONI.<E ALBA.

The type form better known as I.ycaste Harrisonise
was at one time a prime favourite iu gardens, and a
good plant for an exhibition. As with many other
Orchids, when white varieties appeared the words
"alba " and " eburnea " were applied, although all
such flowers possessed more or less of rosy-purple
tints on the lateral lobes of the lip. Recently there
appeared in Sir Trevor Lawrence's collection, a
form with fine clear white flowers possessing a
yellow tinge on the lip and callus, and fortius variety,
distinct though it was from the original, the name
•'alba" was retained in order to avoid a need-
less multiplication of names. A fine inflorescence
and of a similar uniform, clear white, has been sent
by Joseph Broome, Esq., Sunny Hill, Llaududoo,
who also sends a magnificent Cattleya Schilleriana

Dendkobidm MOBILE VIRilIXALK.
A flower of this beautiful albino of Deudrobium
nobile, sent by Mr. Edge, gr. to J. Leemann, Esq.,
West Bank House, Heaton Mersey, shows what was
at one time thought to be very improbable, viz.,
a fine clear white tiower, without any other colour
than a tinge of pile yellow on the lip. The flower
is large, and of excellent shape, and it measures
nearly 4 inches in width, with petals at their
broadest almost 1 inch in width. The growth of
the variety is said by Mr. Edge to be free, so that
an increase may be looked for shortly. The bloom
is identical in shape with the only other albino of D.
nobile, viz., D. n. Ashworthianum, illustrated on
p. '203 of the Gardeners? ( lironicle for April 2, 1S!>8.

Alpine Garden.

ANEMONE ALBANA.
Ok the Anemones belonging to the Pulsatilla
section, all of which are desirable in gardens if
they will flourish, I have found none so satisfactory
in its habit and the readiness with which it adapts
itself iu my garden to any conditions and surround-
ings, as oue 1 have cultivated for mauy years as A.
albana. 1 think it first came from seed sent by
Mr. W. Thompson, of Ipswich. It is a dwarf plant
with much-divided leaves, like the native A. Pul-
satilla, and flowers about the end of April, when
grown 4 to 0 inches high. The flowers are nodding,
iu the form of a cylindrical cup, somewhat com-
pressed towards the mouth, and are produced very
freely ; this year their abundance is remarkable, on
one clump, not more than 9 inches across, there
are now about 100 flowers aud buds. The plant
does equally well ou the rockery and the level
border, but like the rest of its class, prefers an
exposed site. The seed-head, like that of all the
Pulsatillas, spreads into an ornamental tuft, and
seed ripens iu abundance, comes up readily, but
does not flower till the third year. The colour of
the flower is uniform dull ochreous yellow, leaving
much to be desired for brightness, but in spite of

this defect, the excellent habit, causing the plant
at every stage to look neat and healthy, makes it
acceptable in spring, aud it lives in the same spot
for many years.

Having enclosed specimens to verify the name, I
may add a few words concerning its rather doubtful
identification. A. albana (Steven), named, of
course, from the Caucasian Albania, is not found iu
Europe, but extends all across Central Asia, from
the borders of Armenia to the south-easteru limits
of Siberia, being so abundant on the confines of
Thibet, that the note of a recent traveller there
describes the area of his tent as entirely carpeted
with it. It is exclusively a high mountain species,
differing in this respect from A. pratensis, to which
it is nearly allied, but which is a lowland plant.
In Hooker's Flora of British India, vol. i., p. 7, A.
albaua (Steven) is described as not descending
below 15,000 feet on the Himalayas, and as having
flowers of "dull red-brown." Sir J. Hooker cou-
siders it " probably an alpine state of the European
A. pratensis." E. Boissier (Fl. Orientalis, vol. i.,
p. 10) gives A. albana (Stevens), "floribus flavidis
et cceruleis" (yellowish and blue) ; whilst De Can-
dolle, who assigns the same wide area to the species
as Hooker and Boissier, gives (Prodromns, vol. i.,
p. 17) A. albana (Steven) " Hores albidi aut
ochro-leuci, nee purpurei (flower whitish, or dull
yellow, and not purple). 1 have never been able
to obtaiu a purple-flowered A. albana, and am
curious to kuow whether the Herbarium at Kew
contains auy purple specimens. Also wdiether
there are any in that collection of the colour
described in The Flora of British India. A. albaua,
with purple flowers, if it retained the habit of the
dull yellow form, would be an acquisition worth
having for garden's. C. Wolhij Dod, Ed</c Halt,
Malpas. [There are several specimeus of A. albaua
with purple or violet flowers in the Kew Hei barium,
aud on the whole their flowers are rather larger
than those of the typical ochreous form. The
Indian plant is noted as beiug purple on ono
label. En]

The Fernery.

BRITISH FERNS FOR CONSERVATORIES.

Walking round my fernery at this season of
the year, and noticing the rapidly uufolding
beauties of the numerous varieties, their freshness,
delicacy, and multiformity, it becomes more aud
more a puzzle to me that so few people avail
themselves of these lovely native plants in their
varietal types, while so many uso the common ones.
Although I must plead guilty, if guilt be in ques-
tion, to the enthusiasm of the specialist, which
sometimes implies blindness to demerits as a set-off
to keener appreciation of merits, I cannot, for the
life of me, conceive an adequate reason for the
neglect which this beautiful branch of native horti-
culture undoubt- dly sutlers. That they are not iu
favour with the nurserymen is certainly a factor iu
the problem. Exotic Ferns, which cau be rapidly
brought into marketable form under warm culture,
pay them better to raise thau do hardy ones, which
resent forcing, aud take, consequently, much longer
to develop. The fact, too, that British Fern-
fanciers form a sort of clique, prone to swell their
collections by exchange rather than by purchase, is
another thorn in the side of the trade, and a con-
sequent impediment to that popularisation of the
plants which trade hands achieve by advertise-
ment and exhibition, wlieu the demand justifies
both by profitable results.

There was, however, a time when neither of
these factors, Dor both of them together, sufficed
to check business. British Fern varieties were the
fashion, just as Orchids are now ; new things
fetched faucy prices, buyers were plentiful, aud tho
gems of that day were iustalled in places of honour
iu garden and greenhouse all over the country.
Fashion, however, lis a tickle thing; and presently,
due largely, I believe, to the swamping of the
market with indiscriminate seedlings, ugly curios

SvtiV. 10, 1899.]

THE GA BDE NEBS' CBR ONI CLE.

371

ratter than " things of beauty," a reaction sets
in, from which the plants still suffer.

I am confirmed in this view regarding the quality
of the Ferns sent out, by perusal of Sims' cata-
logue of the time, iu which descriptions which set
my teeth on edge prelude prices which, were I a
seller, would make my mouth water. The veriest
rogue seedlings, depauperate abominations, have
several lines of description, and portentous names,
and taking the whole catalogue from end to end,
I am safe in saying not 10 per cent, were worthy
to survive pricking out. In point of fact, it is
since that period of fashion that the best things
have been found or raised. In the interim a coterie
of constant admirers has stuck to the cult, some
adding to the store of gems by assiduous hunting

the fact of their great excellence, and the pity
that thousands of cool conservatories, unfitted
by their exposure for the proper growth of
flowers, are not devoted to the culture of
these charming substitutes. In these days of
extension of brick and mortar, most of it neces-
sarily on formal and restricted lines, the attached
conservatory is very often an adjunct, quite inde-
pendent of fitting aspects. The houses in a road
face north and south, and the conservatories do the
same, half of them, of course, getting but transient
glimpses of sunshine, or none at all. Here is the
ideal British fernery. No hot -water pipes are wanted,
for the plants are as hardy as grass, the constant
shade, death to flowers, is life to Ferns, and with a
judicious arrangement of staging, and perhaps a

Where space is restricted and accommodation
scanty, a single species, like the Hart's-tongue, would
suffice to stock tho place, and be replete with
interest, so versatile is the species ; while the aver-
age size of specimens is moderate enough to admit
of a greater number of forms than the other species
named would allow many to their greater spread
and dimensions. To those who have such shady
conservatories, I strongly advise the acquisition of
a few good varieties ; not the common Ferns
hawked about the streets, or ignominiously boxed
and bundled under nurserymen's shelves; these
are simple Nature's raw material, and in this con-
nection are to be severely let alone, as a check upon
the Vandals. Pot the acquisitions carefully, water
them properly, keep them steadily one way to the

FlO. 130. — RETARDED LILY OF THE VALLEY.
(Exhibited at the Temple Show by Mr. T. Jannoch, Lily Nursery, Dersingham, Norfolk.

in ferny localities ; others by raising and selecting
on stringent Hues, and some doing both ; the end
results being a considerable elimination of the
worthless, and such an enormous addition to and
improvement of the really symmetrical and beau-
tiful forms that no comparison cau now be insti-
tuted between the best of the "fashion" period
and the best of to day. Quietly, and, as it were,
uehind the scenes, the connoisseurs have been busy
ever since, and the result is as great an advance
in form and quality in our native Ferns as has been
attained in floriculture during the same period,
which is saying a great deal. This advance, too, has
been all along the line, and not confined to one or two
species or varietal branches. The Hart's-tongues,
Lady Ferns, Male Ferns, and Shield Ferns, have
all participated in selective improvements, and con-
tributed their quota of superior finds.

I do not propose to myself to enter at length
into these iu this article, but rather to emphasise

little rockwork, a few dozen good varieties will
give a maximum of pleasure with little trouble. If
space be limited, there are dwarf congested forms
to fit ; and if be extensive enough, grand specimens
of the larger kinds do yeoman's service in the way of
decoration. It is, indeed, one of the great charms
of our British varieties that their size has so great
a range that within one and the same species we
may have full grown dwarf specimens, condensed
gems an inch or two high iu thumb-pots, cheek by
jowl with grand relations 3 or 4 feet long in the
frond, and spreading into as much, or more, in all
directions. Lastrea pseudo - mas cristata as the
giant, and L. p. - m. crispatissima in the Male
Ferns, Athyrium f.-fcemina var. percristatum, and
the diminutive Edwardsii, among the Lady Ferns,
and a finely grown specimen of the crispum Hart's-
tongue side by side with S. v. Kelwayi densum, a
tiny ball of moss, are all examples of this, and there
are all grades between.

light, not twisting and turning them about, as is
often done, to their inevitable distortion and spoiling :
and I am sure they will repay the care bestowed
far and away better than sickly lanky Pelargo-
niums or other flowers which too often occupy
such situations, and repay their cruel owners by a
liberal crop of greenfly in lieu of other verdancy.
In the one case we suit the tenants to the environ-
ments, since Ferns are eminently shade-loving
plants ; in the other, we are at war with Nature,
since flowers are the children of the sun. The
excuse, therefore, of flowers or nothing, falls, as we
have seen, to the ground, unless the individual be
so wedded to bright colours, that the quieter har-
monies of frondage, and its delicate tracery and
tasselling, be altogether thrown away upon him.
In that case we shall never make him a convert,
for it is pre-eminently " the harvest of a quiet
eye" that repays the British Fernist. C/ias. T.
Druery, F.L.S., V.M.H,

372

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Junk 10, 1899.

NOTES ON WYASTONE LEYS.

Tourists and others who have passed through
the Wye Valley by rail may have noticed between
Syrnonds Yat and Monmouth, a ' pretty stone
residence standing upon a plateau on the steep
west bank of the river surrounded by well dressed
grounds, and backed up by high rocky hills,
furnished with specimen trees and shrubs. The
mansion referred to is Wyastone Leys, and belongs
to J. M. Banuerman, Esq. Few seats naturally
possess such grand surroundings, and command
such views as does this. The magnificent stretch
of scenery to be seen from here, embracing as it
does some of the most beautiful to be found in
Monmouthshire, Gloucestershire, and Hereford-
shire, is a grand spectacle ; while near at home the
Wye Valley itself, which, with its silvery river,
rioh pastures, and rock, and wood-clad banks, can
be viewed both up and down for a considerable
distance, affords a charming picture.

The most attractive feature in the gardens at the
time of my visit was afforded by hardy bulbous
plants, which are us.ed in great numbers and
variety, and under various conditions. The ex-
ceeding freedom with which they blossom proves
that the light, rich, and warm soil of the place,
meets their requirements in every way. Many of
them have been undisturbed for years, and have
formed large clumps. This refers particularly to
Hyacinths, Tulips, Triteleias, Anemones, Fritillaria
imperialis, Leucojums, Musoari, Scillas, Jonquils,
and Narcissus (Daffodils, poeticus, and Polyanthus)
in many varieties, which make a gorgeous display
mixed with herbaceous plants in the long borders ;
X. Macleaii, a small white-flowered species with
a bright yellow crown, struck me as being particu-
larly°pretty and distinct. A pleasing effect was
produced by Narcissus in variety, by Leucojums
mixed freely with Primroses on the grass amidst
specimen trees and shrubs, upon steep banks, and
in natural bays at their feet ; this is carried out in
a way to imitate nature, and with success. It
deservedly merits copying, although it is not in
every place that the character of the ground would
enhance the effects as is the case here.

The undulated contour of the land is admirably
suited to display the beauties of flowering shrubs,
but my visit was paid too early in the season to see
many of these in blossom ; nevertheless, groups of
Forsythias and some early Rhododendrons were
conspicuous, and some tender genera not often met
with were observed growing amongst ordinary
shrubs, where they have been for years. Of these,
Fxochorda grandiflora syn, Spinea grandiflora),
indigenous to China, was flowering freely; its
choice white blossoms are very sweetly scented.
Piptanthus nepalensis.ahandsomeleguminous shrub
from the Himalayas, was unfolding its beautiful
racemes of yellow flowers, which were produced in
abundance. It was growing in a sheltered situa-
tion, and many seedlings from it had sprung up
around. Choisya ternata is perfectly hardy here—
at least, several big healthy bushes, thickly beset
witli flower-buds, have been for several years in
their present open positions.

I may mention that under glass Marcchal Niel
and Niphetos Roses, planted in borders and trained
near the glass, were flowering splendidly. Com-
plaints about the constitution of the former are
often made, but here a sturdy plant has been in its
position for at least twenty-five years. I was
pleased to see some old, commonly neglected
plants valued and well cared for, such as Begonia
corallina, a handsome woody-stemmed species,
possessing clusters of coral-like flowers, and grow-
ing as a pillar-plant; while B. fuchsioides was
in a similar maimer, and was almost equally
beautiful. Amongst Orchids, some plants of Vauda
teres, planted in groups in crocks and sphagnum-
moss placed in shallow boxes and baskets, were
vigorous, and thickly furnished with flowers on
the poiut of opening. They are grown, as is the
usual practice now, fully exposed to the suu.
Tomatos in a low house were particularly well

grown ; the varieties were All-the- Year-Round and
Ham Green Favourite. The former, which has
medium-sized fruit, in large clusters, has proved to
be an exceptionally prolific winter-fruiting variety ;
Ham Green, although not so free-bearing during
winter as its companion, has large fruit, and is
reliable in summer. Royal Sovereign Strawberry,
growing in pots, were carrying tine crops, some of
them being ripe, large, and well coloured ; and the
trees in an early Peach-house were bearing heavy
and regular crops of fruit.

The garden in each department denotes that it is
skilfully managed by Mr. Phillips. Thos. Coomher.

Florists' Flowers.

* ♦ — -

SUMMER-BLOOMING VIOLAS.
I still hold that the best summer results come
from plants put out in August or September of the
previous year, or even earlier. At the present
time, I have most effective clumps a foot in dia-
meter that are masses of bloom, and with a top-
dressing they will continue to flower freely all the
summer. They are plants which were planted in
the open a year ago, and they are in a fairly stiff
soil, in which they root deeply and freely. In the
case of a light soil, it would be best in some cases
to trust to younger plants put out in March or
April. When plants are placed in the beds or
borders as late as April and May, unless they are
encouraged in every way, they fail to get a deep hold
upon the soil before hot weather sets in, and they
frequently fail when their service is most required.
My contention is illustrated in a striking manner in
Messrs. Veitch & Sons' Langley Nursery. There are
two borders of Viola Blue Bell, one on either side of a
broad walk ; these plants occupied this position all the
previous winter, but the variety goes on flowering
right up to the autumn. It is these qualities of
persistency and continuity that are wanted in too
many of the uew varieties. It appears to be
thought that the main use of the Viola is for exhi-
bition, and not in the flower garden. New varie-
ties are so disappointing that I have given up
buying them. The old sorts hold the field for bed-
ding purposes— Countess of Hopetoun, J. B. Riding,
William Niel, Bullion, Sylvia, True Blue, Duchess
of Fife, &c. What is wanted is a systematic trial
of all the leading varieties; the whites by them-
selves, so as to atlbrd close comparison ; the yel-
lows, and other colours or combiuatious, similarly
treated ; and the plants put out in September, so as
to afford a good winter trial of endurance. But this
trial should be carried out in an open, breezy spot,
away from the effects of London fogs. As fogs prove
harmful at Chiswick, no such trial can be attempted
there. Florist.

Auriculas in Pots,

Auriculas were in many cases quite late in
flowering this season— in the last week of May.
I have such fine alpines as Fred Knighton; Mag-
net, Winnifred, and Sunrise, only just in flower,
but that may be owing to my plants being in a
north house, and getting but little sunshine. Fred
Knighton is a graud late alpine, large, of the best
form, and brilliant in colour. But there are many
fine alpines now, and though Mr. C. Turner has
somewhat dropped out of the field as a raiser,
Messrs. Douglas, l'hillips, and others, are active in
adding to our lists. We are strong in golden
centres, but still a little weak in white centres.
The two best I have bloomed this season, are
Desdemona and Winifred, both raised by Mr.
Turner ; they are white centres, and the white
lasts well, while the marginal colour is fresh
and brilliant. The late Mr. J. Gibson, of Reading,
raised several alpine varieties, but as he had set up
a high ideal, he put aside flowers that others would
have had no hesitation in naming. He sought to
improve the white centres, using Winifred both as
a seed and pollen parent ; and a few of his seed-
lings came into my possession at his death, the
best, being Tillie. This is a very large, finely-

formed, stout flower, with a broad and massive,
deep-shaded purple margin, and a living white
centre ; the contrast is remarkable, but the white
centre is a little narrow in its diameter. It pro-
mises to make an exceedingly useful seed-parent.
It is to be hoped that we shall soon see the last of
the confused creamy-white centres, on some of
which the young and the old flowers show two
distinctly different stages of development. Mauy
seedlings otherwise good have to be rejected on
account of this defect.

The notched segment of the corolla is rapidly
disappearing. It lingers longer in the case of the
white centres, and especially with those of the most
delicate mauve and purple tints. All white-centred
flowers— those whose centres are really white — are
frequently of thin substance. We want the solidity
which characterises Mr. Gibson's Tillie ; we want
also the diameter of the centre to be equal to the
zone forming the margin.

There is a tendency in some of the newer seed-
lings to show a wide, irregular, gaping tube. While
the tube is not of such first importance in the case
of the alpine as in the self and edged show varie-
ties, it should yet be equal to the other parts ; and
a gaping tube breaks into and robs the centre of its
proper proportions. The scape supporting the truss
is rather long in some of the new varieties, a fault
conspicuous in the case of the beautiful blue self
Mrs. Potts, but that will be remedied in course of
time. Some may regard these points as trifles, but
it should be remembered that the Royal Horti-
cultural Society has set up an authoritative
schedule of qualities in the Auricula, and it should
be the aim of raisers to approach as nearly as
possible to them. They are, therefore, not trifles ;
and to any objecter it may be said, "Trifles make
perfection, and perfection is no trifle.''

The alpines which now win at Auricula shows arc
more or less shaded. The self colour is required
in the show typo ; it is a form of incompleteness in
the alpine ; as the white or golden centre should
be surrouuded by a margin, shading from dark to
light. Self alpines were recognised when there
were but few named varieties ; now the latter are
many, and there is uo need to fall back upon the
self. As any shading on the show self is a grave
defect, so the self colour is a grave defect in the
alpine. This is the recognised difference between
the two types. R. D.

NOTES FEOM A SCOTTISH MANSE.

[Continued from i>. 275.)
Dt -uiNti the last fortnight I have had the great
privilege of visiting many places of horticultural
interest ; such, for example, as the Royal Gardens
at Windsor, where the fruit grown under glass is
the predominant attraction, and where for the first
time I saw growing the Banana, one of the most
valuable of tropical fruits. I much regretted, on
that occasion, the absence of Mr. Owen Thomas,
who had gone to London to superintend the floral
decorations of Buckingham Palace, during the tem-
porary residence there of Her Majesty the Queen ;
but I received great kindness from his lieutenant,
Mr. Edwards, and his intelligent assistants. I was
somewhat surprised to learn that the Almond-tree
is not grown in the Royal Gardens, for this is by
far the most beautiful of spring-flowering trees. I
also visited the Royal Nurseries of the Messrs.
Turner at Slough, still famous, as of old, for
Carnations, Roses, and Pelargoniums ; the great
Orchid establishment of Mr. F. SanderatSt. Albans,
and the splendid collections of the Messrs. Veitch
at Chelsea, both of which are veritable epitomes
of the flora of the world. I also saw once more,
and greatly admired, Mr. Wm. Bull's Orchids;
and Mr. William Paul's Roses at Waltham Cross,
some of which were subsequently exhibited with
grand effect at themeetingof theRoyalHortieultuial
Society in the Drill Hall, Westminster, where I had
the pleasure of meeting, for the first time, with
one of my kindest friends, Mr. Harry J. Veiteb.

.Tone 10, 1899

THE GA R DENER S ' CHR OKI GL E.

373

Before leaving tbe Modern Babylon, I made a
pilgrimage to Surbiton, one of the most charming
places in Surrey, where, at the Long Ditton Nur-
series, Mr. Win. Barr, of Covent Garden, showed
me his Darwin Tulips, the hybrid Narcissi, inclu-
ding "Victoria," and other highly fascinating
(lowers.

On my return to Kirkmaidcn Manse, I found my
own garden in wonderfully good order, considering
the fact that during my absence (which, however,
was not long), my industrious gardener had, like
some of the English soldiers who fought at Preston-
pans, been wounded by a scythe, though in a
somewhat different and more accidental way.

few days, though tho wind keeps cold. Lilium
giganteum, which is of Himalayan origin, has this
peculiarity : that in the production of its immense
stem and majestic flowers it exhausts the massive
bulb ; but it is perpetuated by offsets, whose
energy in the generation of foliage is quite visible
before the aspiring parent of these comes into
bloom. I have several other Lilies which have
grown with almost equal rapidity ; especially the
Chinese Lilium Henryi, originally discovered by
Dr. Henry. Lilium speciosum Kraetzeri, which
will come into flower very early this year, and
several stately specimens of Lilium auratum,
which, I anticipate, will bloom in July.

FlU. 131.— A GROUP OF RTCHARDIA KI.I.U'TI AN A : COLOUR OF THE SPATHES BRIGHT YELLOW.
(Evhiliito'l by Messrs. W. Cutbusli k Son, Highgate, at the Temple Slinw.)

Now, however, that he has recovered his wonted
energies, and has my assistance, things are assuming
a brighter appearance, and the flowers And them-
selves in perfect harmony with their surroundings.
Nothing impresses me more at present than the
rapid development of Lilium giganteum, the largest
plant of which in my possession has been grown
from an offset for four successive seasons, and will
bloom this year. It is a very powerful specimen,
and promises to attain to a commanding height.
The development of this giant is such as to astonish
all visitors to my garden. This is owing, no doubt,
largely to its nature, for the characteristic of which
I speak is one which I have observed in dryer and
sunnier seasons than this ; but doubtless its growth
has also been considerably accelerated by the
recent heavy rains, which have been followed
providentially by brightest sunlight during the last

My Spanish Irises, so long seemingly inactive,
my Ixias and Sparaxis — beautiful flowering plants
of African extraction — are beginning to show
definite signs of activity ; and I hope to have their
bright beauties contemporaneously with those of
Lilium candidum, one of the fairest and most
fragrant Lilies of the garden, and with the first
efflorescence of the "regal Rose." There are
many eminent professional horticulturists who
have hitherto made no attempt to cultivate Ixias,
because they regarded them as delicate plants. I
find, however, that they preserve their foliage
marvellously during the winter, and are not much
affected, much less than the Montbretias, by the
vernal frosts. Of almost equally vigorous consti-
tution are the Californian Calochorti, of which
the .finest (and latest) are the gloriously -tinted
" Mariposa Lilies," which flower in July. But

even the earlier forms, though less exquisitely
painted by the hands of gracious Nature, are
exceedingly interesting. They may have an
affinity to the family of Tulips, but they offer a
very striking contrast to these.

The foliage of many of my Roses is at present
so beautiful, that flowers seem to be almost super-
fluous for artistic effect. Supreme among these are
such decorative varieties as Madame Joseph Combet,
Mrs. W. J. Grant, one of the grandest of the
Newtownards introductions ; Madame Laurette
Messimy, Madame Charles, and the luminous La
France. In this season of sunshine, growth, and
brightest hope, it is difficult to realise the words
of George Herbert :

" Sweet Rose, whose hue angry and brave,
Bids the rash gazer wipe his eye ;

Thy foot is ever in the grave,
And thou must die."

The reign of the Narcissi, so long and so benefi-
cent, is nearly over ; but the intensly fragrant
Narcissus poeticus is with us still. David /,'.
Williamson.

APPLE SPRAYING in NOVA SCOTIA.

Potash Spraying, to clean the kirk of moss and in hi i I

destroy insects Lodging in the crevices of the bark in Canada,
is mostly done daring April, before the buds open. For this
purpose, one third to lib. crude rock or powdered (caustic
potash tn one gallon of water is employed. The men usiiej;
tin- strong solution wear old rubber mackintoshes to ;
their clothes, and sometimes indiarubber gloves. In some
cases ,i rubbei covei is strapped ovei the horse to proteel it.
The i.pple trees are sprayed all over to the topmost branches,
say, SO feet or more high, [fthe trunks only are to be washed,
tli is in.iy be done at any time of th-- year, either in early spring
or, perhaps better, about May or June, when the young scale
insects are hatching out and beginning to move about. A
\ egetable fibre lime-wash brush is used for this purpose. The
effeci of the potash-wash is to give the trees a healthy bark.
I have seen the trunks of young trees thus treated yearlj
shining in the sun as if varnished.

tulphaU Spraying, 1 in obji ci ol this is to destroy
the spores of "black spot/' oi "scab," the most serious
disease that attacks the leaves and fruit of the Apple,
spoiling the appearance of the latter, and causing it I

ing with its growth. Copper sulphate ai 3 Lb. to

1 i Q tllon ol water is used any time before the buds
expand. Later.. mi the sulphuric acid must be neutralised by
lime, oi the foliage will be burnt.

ing insects, such as
the caterpillars ol the Winter Codlin, Ermine, and i i ki

If Paris Green is used alone it is desirable to add
twirr the wt-ight "f lime to euunteraci the possibility of any
free arsenious acid which may burn the leaf. The purity of
Paris Green may be tested by ammonia, which should dissolve
it entirely, producing a blue liquid. A quarter of a pound of
Paris Green to a 40-gallon barrel of water is the usual pro-
portion used. In using Paris Green one commences by weigh-
ing out Jib., and then measuring this out in spoonfuls to see
how many it is equal to, so as to be able to measure it in
future as being less trouble than weighing each time. One
places the required quantity in a cup, adding water and
stirring to mis it to a paste. Then add it to a pailful of
water and pass it through the strainer, adding it to the water
or Bordeaux Mixture in the barrel.

Bordeaux Mixture and Paris Green- are the most commonly
need combined fungicide and insecticide. The proportions
gi aerally used are ■ —

4 lb. copper sulphate, 4 oz. Paris Green,

4 lb quicklime, 40 gallons water.

This is used throughout the season, the first spraying being1
when the leaf buds are open, but before the flowei buds
expand, the second after the blossoms have fallen, afterwards.
at intervals Of two or three weeks, if there is appearance of
fungus on leaf or fruit, or caterpillars eating foliage. The
number of times necessary varies with season and variety,
from two to six times.

TM usual way of making up the Bordeaux Mixture in bull
is to take a 40-gallon paraffin cask, fill it with water, suspend-
ing in it 40 lb. sulphate of copper contained in a sack oi"
basket. This gives a strength of solution of 1 lb. to one
gallon. Another barrel is used for the lime, which is slaked
and stirred up, forming " lime putty." This is kept c
with a little water. When required for use the 40
barrel to which the pump is fixed is partly filled, sa\ one-
third full, with water. Four gallons of the copper sulphate
solution are added, and then an equivalent of about 4 lb.
lime is stirred up with water and strained through a brass
wire strainer at the bottom of a funnel, used in filling the
barrel. The mixture in the barrel is stirred, and many
fanners test to see whether enough lime has been added, so
as to avoid adding more lime than necessary, and possibly
clogging the pump. For this purpose a solution of ferro-
cyanide of potassium (1 oz. in a pint of water) is used. A
cupful of the mixture is taken from the barrel, and to this a
few drops, of the ferrocyanide solution are added. If it turns
blackish-brown, more lime should be R'dd'ecl; Lf the sky blue

374

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

[Juxft 10, 1399.

colour is unchanged, enough lime has been ad tied. The
barrel is then filled up with water, or if Paris Groen is to be
added it is now put in.

Soap and Paraffin are used for the destruction of sucking
insects, such as aphis, scale and woolly aphis. This is not
often used, as these insects are not often a serious pest.
Perhaps the best recipe is the Hubbard-Riley emulsion, made
by boiling half-a-pound of hard soap in one gallon soft water ;
add two gallons paraffin, and churn the two together for five
or ten minutes. For use dilute this with from four to twenty
parts of soft water, according to whether it is used to wash
the bark, or as a spray when the tree is in leaf.

The Pumps used are force-pumps, fixed to ordinary paraffin
casks holding about 40 gallons. Their working parts are of
hard brass, and they have an agitator paddle. Two of the
best pumps I saw were "The Pomona," made by the Goulds
Manufacturing Company, Seneca Falls, New York, and "The
Eclipse," by Morrill and Morley, Benton Harbour, Michigan,
U.S.A. A moveable square box funnel (with tine brass wire
mesh is used for .straining the lime, &c. A rubber hose-pipe
about 10 to 15 feet long is used, with a bamboo extension rod
8 to 10 feet long (this has a tap, a brass pipe passing through
the centre of a bamboo), terminated by a double Vennorel
nozzle.

I have recently gut over one of these pumps, and shall be
pleased to show it to anyone interested in spraying. I have
had it mounted on wheels like a garden engine, and it works
very well. In the Canadian and American orchards the pump
and barrel are generally mounted on a cart or a low light
waggon, sometimes with a platform, and drawn by a horse
through the orchard, one man driving and pumping, the other
directing the spray.

Lodeman writes : — " For well-grown trees 25 years old two
to three gallons of liquid are required when sprayed before
the blossoms open ; later in the season, when the tree is in
full leaf, four or even six will be necessary to cover the leaves
and fruit thoroughly."

Professor Bailey writes that " with a ::o0-gallon tank drawn
by two horses, with three men, one driving and pumping, the
other two standing on the rear platform two or three feet
above the tank, directing the spray each with a hose pipe, the
pump having an automatic stirrer: with this rig five acres of
full-grown Apph- trees can be thoroughly sprayed in a day."

All the working parts of the pump should occasionally be
oiled, also the nozzles.

In using both copper sulphate and potash, iron vessels
should be avoided, preferably using wooden pails. Before
working with these liquids it is a good plan to rub the hands
over with mutton or some other fat not containing salt.
Avoid spraying work when the bauds have open cuts or sores,
and wash the hands well after work. When spraying it is
advisable to wear ones worst clothes. A broad-brimmed
(straw or rush) hat is of advantage in shielding the face from
spray. Spray from the lee side, and only when calm.

Macmillan & Co., of New York and London, have published
an excellent book, " The Spraying of Plants, " by E. G. Lode-
man, Instructor in Horticulture in the Cornell University.
Cecil H. Hooper.

The Herbaceous Border.

ALYSSUM SAXATILE TOM THUMB.
This dwarf "Gold Dust " or Rock Madwort is
not by any means a new plant, as it is several
years since it was first sent out. When first cata-
logued, one had pleasing anticipations of a minia-
ture A. s. compactum, covered with golden flowers
as freely as the larger form, and suitable for the
very choicest places among the alpine flowers.
The first season's disappointment was mingled with
hope that the sparse flowering was due to the
plants requiring time to become established. Suc-
ceeding seasons have, however, been almost
equally disappointing, so that one can only plead
that this note is penned as a warning to others
not to expect too much. The stature of A. Tom
Thumb is quite well indicated by its name. The
flowers are produced in smaller corymbs than those
of the typical form, and are individually inferior.
The habit of the plant is less vigorous in every
way, and its poor blooming properties are even
accentuated if not planted in a dry and sunny
position. I have found no difficulty in striking
cuttings taken off, in the old-fashioned way, with
a heel, but some of my friends have been less suc-
cessful in striking them.

Anemone narcissikloka.

Novelties are very well in their way, and one
always welcomes their appearance if at all acquisi-
tions. While this is so, those of us who have the
opportunity of seeing gardens of hardy flowers, See
that it is frequently necessary to bring before their
owners well-proved plants of beauty. Such a plant
is Anemone narcissiflora, the Narcissus-flowered

Wimltlower, which, one may safely remark, ought
to be more widely known in private gardens. The
rockery is the place recommended for it in some
standard works on gardening, but it may be quite
as well grown in the border as in the rock-garden.
As this is written there is a nice plant in bloom in
one of my borders, where it has been for Beveral
years, and I have occasionally met with it in
similar positions, but in a heavier soil. A. narcis-
si flora is very distinct in its way, with its umbels
of upright, white, or whitish flowers, produced on
stems from 8 inches to over a foot high.

A pretty feature of some of the forms is the tinge
of purple on the outside of the flowers. The whole
appearance of the plant is, indeed, attractive, its
slightly woolly look and the palmate leaves making
it one of some character. It is perfectly hardy, and
may be increased by division.

Anemone nemorosa Alleni.
I often think that the garden of our friend,
Mr. James Allen, at Shepton Mallet, may best be
likened to a laboratory for the fashioning of pre-
cious gems. Those of us who have the privilege of
corresponding with him, and of growing his new
flowers, can to some degree realise the work which has
been done at Park House, and which, one would
fain hope, may long be continued in Mr. Allen's
new garden. Snowdrops alone do not comprise the
objects of his work, and among other flowers the
Wood Anemones are in hand. From the tine A. n.
Kobinsoniana has been produced the very beautiful
A. n. Alleni. This seedling, when one has had it
thoroughly tested, is a marked advance on its
parent, or anything else we have in the same
section. The flowers are larger, more perfect in
form, and even tiuer in colour. The whole habit
seems also more vigorous, and the longer it is
grown the better is it liked. There are yet other
seedlings to come from the same source, but it may
be some time before anything yet to come will
supersede the beautiful A. n. Alleni. .S'. Arnott,
Cdrstthom, l>y Dumfries, N.B.

EVAPORATED VEGETABLES.

The factory of the British Preserving Company at Raynfl
Mantis on a plateau about 200 feet above the sea, on the edge
of the London clay, in the county of Essex, upon a gravel bed
25 feet in thickness, overlying a bed of clean, sharp sand,
bearing ample water of exceptionally good quality, though
very hard. In the erection of the factory great attention was
paid to the sanitary arrangements and the comfort of the
workers, most of whom are young women. The main ball is
about 80 by 30 ft., and at one end is the engine and boiler room,
at the other the kitchen or copper room, with storeroom and the
workpeople" rooms beyond. On the north side runs an
annexe, in which are various bags for receipt and storage of the
raw material and for sundry subsidiary processes. Outside
there is a forge, a tin shop, and a large shed for baskets, mats,
sacks, &c, which take much room. The most scrupulous
cleanliness must, lie observed. The concreted floor of the main
ball is channelled, and laid so that the constant swillinga of
water pass readily away.

The main feature of the large hall (apart from the shafting
and numerous machines connected to it by belting, which
first catch the eye) is what is called the drying canal. This
runs along one side of the building, and has the appearance of
an exaggerated wooden counter. Its internal dimension is
about 4 feet square, and throughout its length is laid a small
tram line, along which run the wagons containing ten or
twelve perforated zinc shelves for the prepared vegetables.
Outside the canal runs a similar train line by which the
wagons, having passed through the canal, are returned to the
end to be again filled and passed through. A hot blast is
driven into the canal by a powerful fan, and rapidly takes up
the moisture of the vegetables, so much so that at the further
end an exhaust fan with a high number of revolutions is
required to extract the moisture-laden air,and expel it through
an upcast shaft.

The amount of moisture extracted from vegetables differs
largely in various kinds, onions being reduced to about one-
tenth of their original weight, and other vegetables to a less
extent. The time and tin' degree of heat required by each also
largely differ, and in the knowledge of this lies much of the
success of the process. When the vegetables leave the canal
the'slices are crisp as biscuit, and a slight re-absorption of
atmospheric moisture must take place before they are ready
for compressing and packing. For this purpose they are
spread on a wooden floor, and here again experience is needfid
in order to seize the proper moment. It is claimed that all
the natural and essential qualities of the vegetables are
retained without any diminution by this process.

Having described the moat important part first, we will

now rapidly follow the process of preparation. Down the
middle of the room are tables at which the girls stand, each
with two baskets on the floor, one on either side. On the table
or beneath it are the various small machines for peeling or
slicing, most of them very ingenious. The idea of peeling
Potatos in a lathe strikes most people as ludicrous, but it is
true. Larger machines for washing Potatos, Carrots, Onions
and other kinds by rotatory action, and slicing them, stand
round the walls, while a notable Pea-shelling and sorting
machine of large dimensions makes a sort of centre. Steam-
heated plunging tanks occupy one corner, and large butts of
cold water another. The machinery in the conserving room is
of the newest description, but being commonly used in this
country needs no description. It may be well to state here
that the vegetables prepared at Rayne are absolutely free from
chemicals, and have passed the Government analyst as per-
fectly pure.

The principal feature of successfully evaporating vegetables
is to wholly extract the water without, burning or drying up
the fibres and tissues that are in them, otherwise the
vegetables will not thoroughly re-hydrate again or re*assume
almost their normal size, while no matter how properly and
carefully they are cooked they will be harsh and flavourless,
ami lose their natural aroma and colour. When properly
evaporated each vegetable should retain its own peculiar
aroma, essential oil, strength, goodness, colour, and flavour.

Almost every kind of vegetable and herb is capable of being
preserved by an evaporating process, and if care be taken to
get rid of the moisture contained in them they will keep for
an indetinite period in any climate, so long as they are kept
covered in a tin box, so as to prevent their absorbing the
moisture contained in the air.

Radishes, Lettuce, Watercress, and such like vegetables
cannot be done successfully, because it is impossible by
re-bydrating to get back the crispness, which is their leading
characteristic.

The time required for the drying process is from two hours
and a half to four hours, starting from a gradual heat up to
4513 to 76° Celsius (= Fahr.), such heats varying according to
the vegetable dealt with. It is inadvisable, as also almost
impossible, to lay down a fixed rule as to temperature
required, as the condition of the vegetable, whether a wet or
dry season, its growth, and even the soil upon which grown,
have to be taken into consideration.

The process of evaporation does not in any way alter the
condition of the vegetable so treated either in making it
fresher or staler. Fresh vegetables will come out from the
process fresh, and stale vegetables cannot be altered, but will
come out stale. The best time to put the vegetables through
the process is when they are at their full growth and their
nutritive qualities at the highest point. Vegetables grown
upon sewage farms or on very highly manured market gardens
are not the best for the factory, as in both cases they contain
a much higher percentage of water than those grown upon less
quickly forcing soil, and it is an open question as to whether
they would have such good keeping qualities when grown on
the former as on the latter. At the same time it is important
to avoid using vegetables that are grown on poor soil, which
consequently are a long time growing, ami must be necessarily
coarse and spongy, in the case of roots and such like, and
stringy and tough in the case of Cabbage, &c.

By the evaporation process, all classes of vegetables as
they come in season may be preserved and used for culinary
purposes, irrespective of seasons, so that Carrots, Turnips,
Parsnips, and Onions, these forming perhaps the most useful,
may be obtained all the year round in their full nutritions
condition and at reasonable prices. Under the old order of
tilings during the months from April to September it is very
difficult and expensive to obtain such from natural sources.

When needed for use, evaporated vegetables require soaking
in water for from two to six hours, according to the sort.
After soaking, they may be cooked in the same way as
ordinary fresh vegetables of a similar nature. Vegetables
required for soups need not be soaked so long as those for the
vegetable dish. By adopting a sound and proper process of
evaporation, and by taking great care for the cleanliness of all
the surroundings, and quickness in dealing with the produce
from the first commencement of the process, which is the
peeling, to the last, which is the pressing and packing, the
colour of each vegetable and its own natural aroma and
qualities may be retained without the use of any colouring
matter or chemicals.

For army, navy, and colonial use, where vegetables are
scarce or impossible to obtain, evaporated vegetables form a
splendid substitute for the original article, and beyond
question hold their own far beyond any tinned substitute,
both in flavour and quality, while they are certainly much
cheaper, comparing solids with solids, and very much easier
to handle. By hydraulic pressure, which in no way injures them
or deteriorates from their value, it is possible to confine a
large quantity of evaporated vegetables in a very small
compass, which very materially lessens the cost of transport
both by land and sea.

As an aid to agriculture, which is still the largest industry
in the United Kingdom, the evaporation business will require
a little time to firmly seat itself, but as to its ultimate success,
an object lesson may be learnt from France, Germany, and
America, the two former for vegetables and the latter for
fruit. France was the originator of evaporated vegetables,
which were first used prominently by them in the Crimean
War in the feeding of their soldiers. Since the Franco-Prussian
War, Germany has made very great strides in their manu-
facture, so that now in that country, and in France, factories
for evaporating vegetables may be reckoned by the score.
Dried vegetables may be seen and bought in most of the

June 10, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

375

grocers' shops on the Continent, as they have now become
universally used by the ho use holders of the great cities and
towns. For cheapness, saving of time and trouble in peeling
and preparing, for doing away with the nuisance of the peel-
ings and garbage stored in or near the house, evaporated
vegetables should be extensively used in London and -ill
great centres of people.

The gold medal and diploma of honour were awarded to the
Rayne vegetables at the Universal Food and Cookery Exhibi-
tion, held at the Imperial Institute in March last, where they
were extensively used in the practical demonstrations. Paper
read by Mr. It, Grafton Salmoild at the Horticultural Club,

GOOD BROCCOLI.

Ok late years, there have been some valuable
additions to the early and late Broccolis, and few
varieties have proved more useful than Model
(see fig. 132), and Continuity (see fig. 133). In
this country the Broccoli is a somewhat uncertain
crop, as the plants are not capable of resisting our
severe winters ; yet much has been done in respect
to obtaining a dwarfer plaut, with a shorter leg or
stem, and therefore less susceptible to injury by
frost. Of course, much depends upon the cultiva-
tion afforded the plants, and upon the soil. In
light soils they make more growth, and are more
readily influenced by the weather ; in heavy land,
I have secured much better crops.

It is important that the plants be not permitted
to remain crowded together in the seed-beds, or the
time and strength so lost will affect them most
injuriously. I know that it is very well to describe
the best system of culture, but a different matter
to carry it out, as many growers have to double-
crop the laud, with the result that one crop is not
always cleared before the succeeding one should be
put out ; and in gardens where labour is insufficient,
press of work may delay the planting. In such
cases I would suggest that the plants be pricked-
off, and much sturdier plants will be thus obtained
than when drawn direct out of the seed-bed, and
they will suffer much less in severe weather.
Another point of great importance to the grower is
that such a practice renders unnecessary any
heeling-over in the late autumn to preserve the
plants, and thus a check is avoided and better
heads secured.

Needing Cauliflower or Broccoli all the year
round, it is necessary for me to grow those kinds
that may be relied upou, and I say that some do
not always turn iu at the times wished. For many
years the best midwinter variety was Snow's
Winter White, catalogued to come in during
December or January, and described as the best
winter variety in cultivation. Doubtless the
original stock answered to this description, but I
am unable to get the true variety. As an earlier
variety, no one will complain of lack of cjuality or
lixity in Yeitch's Self-protecting Autumn, a most
valuable introduction, true to name, and a splendid
Broccoli iu succession to the Autumn Giant Cauli-
flower. I wish, by sowiug later, we could get this
variety in mid-winter, but find it impossible.

Of late years my best, winter variety has beeu
Sutton's Suberb Early White, which, if sown iu
April, or on our light soil, will turn in during Feb
ruary ; and though not large, it is a most valuable
vegetable. I am not in favour of large Broccoli at
any season, and they are of poorer quality than
the smaller, firm, compact heads, well covered with
foliage. The last-named variety is not a large
grower, having a very solid head ; and I have
lifted plants with their heads partially formed,
aud they have remained good for weeks. Another
excelleut type, aud a good succession to the Superb
Early White, is Veitch's Spring White. This is
somewhat like the Early Penzance in build, and
is an excellent variety for cutting in March ; the
heads being well protected by the leaves, and the
plants are dwarf and hardy, turning-in before
the spring varieties if sown in April and planted-
out in June. There are others well worth namin",
but I do not desire to give a loug list ; as most
growers know, there is no lack of what we may
terra Spring Broccoli, and I find a few of thesulphur-
coloured heads well worth room. I have, for in-

stance, for many years grown the Sulphur, or Ports-
mouth, and find it valuable for its hardiness, and its
colour in no way affects the quality. Anothergood
form is the Penzance, but there are several varieties
of it, for with me it varies much in quality, my
best stock having come from a large grower who
had only this variety for many years. Of course
Broccoli stocks become mixed and deteriorate like

Flo. 132.— veitch's mhi.ii hi; m.

(/'<> ! Hitch reduced.)

other vegetables, and there is continual need for
selection.

Veitch's Model (fig. 132) was a great gain on
some of the older forms, as with a dwarfer habit
the plants are more likely to escape frost. This
variety we sow in quantity in May for cutting the
followiug April and May, but this season there
were few left for late May use. A still later
variety is Sutton's Continuity (tig. 13.'-!), and it is
not yet much known. It is a very tine type, and

Flu. 133.— SUTTON'S CONTINUITY B "1,1,

(Pkotograpltedfn m life. ]!/»•/[ reduced.)

the head or flower, as will be seen in the illustra-
tion, has a great depth, and is entirely covered
with foliage. The variety is a most valuable
addition to the later kinds, and I hope to grow
it in quantity another season.

Late Queen and June Monarch are also valuable
late varieties, and very hardy. They are well
known, and the last-named is a great favourite in
the North, as it continues the supply wLt n all others
are over. (?. Wythes,

American Notes.
- — • — ■

PERSIMMONS.
This fruit is undoubtedly becoming more popular
in America, though perhaps its increase in favour
is not so rapid as might be wished. For the most
part the Persimmon is still known as a wild fruit,
with a somewhat dubious reputation. A taste for
it among the coloured people of the South is almost
proverbial, aud white folks have seemed sometimes
to feel as though this put it rather beneath their
notice ; still, there are many refined persons whose
taste for fruits is above suspicion, and who do not
scruple to relish cpenly their basket of ripe Persim-
mons. The native Persimmon is, iu fact, a luscious
fruit when at its prime, and it is a matter of great
regret that more p3rsons of good manners do not
have the opportunity to cultivate its acquaintance.
The supply of wild fruit is limited and uncertain,
so that it has not found a firm footing in the
market. Fruit buyers seldom ask for it, aud ship-
pers seldom consign it to the city commission men.
Attention has beeu called several times of late to
this fruit, however, as a profitable fruit for culti-
vation, and iu a few instances small orchards have
been set. The Japanese Persimmon, or Kaki, is
also becoming more common in America, and is
somewhat frequently planted in the Southern
States. It is occasionally seen in the markets, but
not often enough to make any real impression. In
a recent study of the varieties now propagated in
this country, Professor Watts of Tennessee enume-
rates ten named sorts of American Persimmons, and
gevon of the Kaki.

The Velvet Beam.
Some time ago the Editor of the Gardener/,'
Chronicle wrote asking me about the Velvet -
Bean in this country. I have just received
a pamphlet from Mr. J. F. Duggar, detail-
ing his experiments with the Velvet Bean in
Alabama. This plaut (which he calls Mucuu.i
utilis), was found to be a useful species in
nitrogen collecting and soil-improvement. When
tried beside the Cowpea, one of the mainstays of
southern agriculture, it gave practically equal
results. When Sorghum followed Cowpeas in the
rotatiou, there was an increase of 3216 lb. in
the cured hay, as compared with a total of
3792 lb. of cured hay from plots unfertilised
by the growth of Cowpeas. On plots where Sor-
ghum followed the Velvet Beans, the increase was
3272 lb. of cured Sorghum-hay. Still more re-
markable results were secured when Oats followed
the Velvet Beans. The bines and foliage also
make excellent hay. The plant does not seem to
thrive except in the extreme southern States.

Landscape Gardening Books.
There seems to be quite a little competitiou in
sight for the sale of books on landscape gardening.
There are two new ones on the market, and more
coming, they say. The two already published are
by Professor S. T. Maynard, of the Massachusetts
Agricultural College, and by Mr. Samuel Parsons,
juur. , ex-Superintendent, of Parks for New Vork
City. Both are small, handy volumes, of a popular
nature, intended for the small purses of home
planters. Professer Maynard calls his, Landscap<
Gardening as applied to Home Decoration; and Mr.
Parsons chooses the title, How to Plan the Home
Grounds. It will be seen that the field proposed
by these two authors is nearly identical. The
treatmeut is sufficiently diverse, however, to
remedy any difficulty that might arise over dupli
cation of subjects. The two books are as unlike
as though one were stoichometry and the other
philately. Professor Maynard's book abounds iu
practical advice. Practical advice is usually the
most useless kind of stuff in a book, but iu this
case it does not seem so to me. The directions
here given for doing this and that, and for cariug
for this or that plant, seem to be really useful aud
appropriate. This feature of the book is its strong

376

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 10, 1899.

point. Mr. Parsons' book is more readable and
entertaining, and will appeal more to persons of
another taste. Both books do credit to good pub-
lishers, and are very acceptable additions to our
horticultural libraries. In this country, we have
had several good books on landscape gardening in
recent years ; and there seems to be some justifica-
tion for the belief that public and private taste is
improving along these lines. These books are,
doubtless, at once the sign and the cause of some of
the improvement. F. A. Waugh.

Cultural Memoranda,

STATICE L ATI FOLIA.

Tins species, known in the vernacular uuder the
name Sea Lavender, is the prettiest of the hardy
species of Statice. The plant produces numerous
flower-stems, 1J foot high, that are well above
the foliage, and bear purplish-blue flowers. The
colour of the flower is retained by them for several
months after being cut from the plant, provided
they have just become fully expanded at the time.
The flowers, if intended to be preserved, should be
hung in an airy room till quite dry. For inter-
mixing with other flowers of like nature in winter-
vases the flowers are invaluable. Afforded an open
position, and a rich loamy soil, Statice latifolia
thrives admirably. If the soil of the garden is
not exactly suited to its requirements, it may be
made suitable at a small cost of labour or materials.
The plant is deserving of cultivation ; for, apart
from the usefulness of the flower-spikes in a dried
state, it affords a pleasing contrast to other
herbaceous perennials.

A fortnightly application of slightly-salted water
in the summer favours growth. One ounce to
5 gallons of rain-water will suffice, or a small
quantity may be added to farmyard manure-water.
H. T. M, _

Ireland.

THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
OF IRELAND ROSE SHOW.
The summer show of the above Society will be
held in Merriou Square on Thursday, June 29, and
promises to be a great success. Their Excellencies
the Lord-Lieutenant and Countess Cadogan have
accepted the invitation of the Council to visit the
show. Of the many choice prizes offered for com-
petition, the following are the chief ones :— For a
stand of thirty-six Roses, Messrs. Dickson & Son,
Newtownards, have given a Silver-plate, value £25 ;
E. Johnson, Ltd. (Dublin), for a stand of Roses,
seventy-two blooms, thirty-six varieties, open to
nurserymen only, a Silver Cup, value £5 ; Messrs.
Hartland, Cork, a Challenge Cup, value £G, for a
stand of Begonias ; Major Domvile, J. P., a Silver
Cup, value £5, for a stand of herbaceous plants ; a
Silver Plate, value £10, for a stand of Carnations
or Picotees, twenty-four bunches ; and Mr.
"Watson, Clontarf, a Silver Cup, value £5, for a
stand of Carnations, twelve bunches ; Messrs.
Kelway & Sons, Langport, Somersetshire, a Silver-
gilt Medal, for a collection of cut flowers. There
are forty-five competitive classes in all, and the
Society give three money-prizes in each class. In-
tending exhibitors should remember that all entry-
forms must be lodged with the Secretary (W. H.
Hillyard, Esq.) by the morning of the 23rd inst.

Dublin Naturalist Field Clue.
The members of the above society tookjtheir
second excursion to Ireland's Eye on May 27,
under the direction of H. K. G. Cuthbert, Esq.,
honorary treasurer. The excursion was attended
by twenty-eight members and their friends, and
they left Amiens Street by the 1.55 r.M. train for
Howth; and on arrival at Howth. they embarked
in boats at the west pier, and reached the island in
-about half an hour, one of the boats being retained

for dredging purposes. The majority of the members
followed their inclinations, which were botanical.

Dublin Weather.

The summer weather we are enjoying will bring
gladness to the hearts of our gardeners and farmers,
after the heavy rainfall we had about the middle of
May, which well saturated the ground. The gar-
dens and pastures were, a fortnight ago, bare of
verdure, but they are now covered with Nature's
richest raiment.

The expectations of fruit cultivators are likely to
be realised in good crops of most kinds of hardy
fruits, and as a consequence the trade in baskets,
&c, is very lively.

Flowering plants in the public parks are back-
ward, and we must wait some time longer ere we
see the usual floral display in beds and borders.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Odontoylossttm citrosmum. — The flowering season
of this fragrant Orchid extends from the end of
April to June. As each plant passes out of bloom
it should be examined, and if needing fresh com-
post, this should be afforded, as root action will
commence at once. This species thrives best when
grown in baskets or well-perforated pans, either of
which should be suspended. Each receptacle must
be efficiently drained, and a small quantity of peat
and sphagnum-moss may be used around the base.
The plant will require a light and airy position, in
a house where, ordinarily, an intermediate tempera-
ture is maintained, and though they require an
abundance of water during the growing season, no
fresh supply must be given until the compost has
driedco nsiderably.

0. grande and others of this section have little
iu common with the above species. Having rested
since last season's growth was completed, each
plant should now be given fresh rooting- compost ; but
before supplying them with new peat and freshly-
picked sphagnum-moss, all of the old material
should be carefully removed. Plants iu pots may
be placed in an intermediate house, where they
will enjoy a moderate amount of light. 0. In-
sleayi is liable to be injured during winter when
the plants are resting if the compost be saturated
too frequently. When affording water to these
plants during the early stages of growth, it is well
to prevent any from lodging on the leaves.

Trkhosma suavis is rarely seen in good condition,
because the plants are growu in greater heat thau
necessary. It is a cool-growing plant from the
Kashya mountains, and of sufficient merit to be in-
cluded in all collections. The partially-developed
pseudo-bulbs are now emitting new roots, and if re-
pottingor re-surfacing be required, it should be done.
Fill the pots to within H inch of the rim with drain-
age material, working in amongst the roots a compost
of equal parts of peat, fibrous loam, and sphagnum-
moss, with a dash of silver-sand. The plants may
be placed with the Masdevallias, and water given
them but sparingly until they are thoroughly re-
established. They should be kept moderately dry
during the winter months.

Ada awantiaca. — This desirable Orchid thrives
best in a position at the warm end of tho cool
Odontoglossum - house, and treated iu most re-
spects like those species. Having now flowered
from the partially-developed growths, root-action
will commence, and any attention the plants
require should be given them without delay. The
roots do not often become attached to the
sides of the pot, and any plants, therefore, that
require larger receptacles may be turned out
like ordinary plants, and some of the old soil
removed. In repotting the plants, use a quantity
of crocks, but little compost. The more compost
afforded, the greater must be the care exercised
in the matter of affording water.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Siruonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Loko,

Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

The Late Vinery.— The Vines will now be fast

coming into flower, and the varieties Lady Downes'

Seedling and AluwicU Seedling, which are not free

setters, should be specially treated so as to aid
pollination, either by syringing the Vines once a
day while they are in flower, or using a large camel-
hair brush, or a few feathers charged with pollen
obtained from flowers of Black Alicante or Black
Hamburgh. The temperature of the vinery should
be well kept up at this time, and atmospheric
moisture lessened in amount somewhat, and the
borders should be afforded water ; but this matter
should be attended to just prior to the flowering of
the Vines. With Gros Colman and Black Alicante
it is sufficient to shake the rod;, about noon iu
order to set the flower.

The Muscat Vinery. — The Vines, if started iu
February or at an earlier date, will now have
reached the first stage of colouring, a time when
they are apt to scald from sun-heat, or when
exposed suddenly to bright sunshine. Care must
be taken in removing lateral growth not to remove
any foliage that affords overhead shade ; later,
when colouring is well advanced, more sunlight
will be helpful iu attaining that rich golden tint
so generally admired in Muscats. Muscat Grapes,
however, will perfect their colour UDder the shade
of the foliage, without any special aid, when they
are permitted to advance steadily, and to remain
ou the Vine till they are ripe. Exposure of the
bunches need ouly be done to suit any special
circumstances, and it may be said here that
colour obtained in that manner does not endure,
neither does the fruit keep, but it soon shrivels1
Muscats generally possess leafage that is less robust
than that of other Vines, and bunches on laterals
at the usual distance apart obtain sufficient light.
The ventilation if increased in volume at this
stage will be of much assistance, though, unlike
black Grapes, they do not benefit to the same
extent from the sashes being opened at night.
Six a.m. is not too early to begin to air this vinery
if it be in a southerly aspect, or as soon as the earliest,
sun-ray touches it on other aspects, increasing the
amount of air as the warmth increases. If the
foliage or the berries are apt to scald iu any vinery,
a slight coat of shading should be applied to the
roof-glass with a syringe, or a lish-uet doubled
should be drawn over it. In all bunches of Grapes
except the latest Muscats it is easy to be seen
at this date which of the berries are stoneless, and
as these disfigure the bunches by their small size,
they should be removed. The size and perfection
of the berries will, of course, be governed by the
condition of the Vines, of the border, and their
treatment from the time of starting ; but much
may yet be done with healthy Vines in obtaining
berries of the largest size. The supply of water
should be increased if this is desired, accompanied
by frequent dressings of artificial Vine-manure, or
liquid - manure diluted in accordance with its
strength. With a continuance of the present heat,
the floors and other surfaces must be moistened
often.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Straii oun,
Wrotbam Park, Barnet.

Winter drops.— During the present mouth the
bulk of the late autumn and winter crops of Bras-
sicas will have to be planted. A beginniug should
lie made with those that turn in early, planting
these by themselves so that whole quarters may be
cleared at oue time of the remains of the crops, and
put to other uses. The mid- winter and late crops
should be similarly treated. Taking Cauliflowers
first, there are tlrosc of the Dwarf Erfurt type,
following on with Walcheren, and [others, and
finally setting out Autumn Giant. Next come the
early Broccolis, viz., Snow's Winter White, Self-
protecting Spring White, and the many mid-season
varieties, finishing with Model, Ledsham, and Late
Queen.

Cabbage. —The present month sow a small quan-
tity of seed of the small-heartiug Cabbages for
planting on any vacant plots, viz., Little Pixie,
London Coleworts, Ellam's Early. The small-
growing varieties may be planted at from 12 to 10
inches apart, ou land that has been lightly forked
over, or merely hoed deeply, drawing drills as for
Peas, and planting therein.

Celery. — In dull weather, put Celery, when large
enough, into trenches, and afford it plenty of
water. If the trenches are dry at the time of
planting, let water be afforded, and also afford
water to the nurse-beds before lifting the plants.
If plenty of manure was put on the trenches, it
will suffice to apply ouly clean water. Sec that

Jim, 10, 1S99.]

THE GAR DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

377

the plants do not get drawn before they are put
into the trenches. During the month the succes-
sioual batches should be planted from the nurse-
beds.

Broad Beans.— The earliest plants being now in
bloom and pod, should be topped, thus the black -
!ly that usually infests them will be get rid of, if
the tops are put into a water-can, and scalded, and
early podding induced. Keep the hoe at work
among growing crops of Beans.

Tripoli Onions. — If the bulbs are going to seed,
remove the flower-spikes forthwith, and slightly
depress the tops. If very large bulbs are required,
afford 1 foot space between the bulbs, and afford
the beds a good dressing of guano or other suitable
manure, and a copious application of water, being
careful not to allow any manure to dry on the tops,
or much harm may be occasioned. Remove bulbs
which show signs of decay, removing them right
away. Soot forms a good dressing for Onions,
and may be used three or four times in the season.
Keep the hoe in constant use.

Vegetable-Marrows. — ■ Those which have been
forwarded under glass should not lack water at the
roots, nor be allowed to get crowded with weak,
useless growths, nor the fruits to remain on the
plants after they have become fit for table. The
first lot of fruit sometimes turns yellow and drops
off, more especially if the plants possess great
vigour, the result of a very rich soil. A sandy,
loamy soil, with not much manure, prevents this to
a great extent ; and later, when the roots get down
to the manure of the hot-bed, heavy crops of fruit
may generally be expected.

over the pots, which should be placed near the glass
in a frame or hand-light on the north side of a wall,
or some other coolish and moist place, where the
sun will not reach them. Care is needed in afford-
ing water, and until the seedlings have taken a
firm hold of the earth it is prudent to dip the pots
to the rim in water.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By 0. R. FfELDER, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Richardia (Ca/la) a/rieana. — Where the practice
of planting-out Richardias is adopted, the required
preparation of the laud should now be made.
Trenches about 1 foot in width and half-a-spit
deep should be thrown out, and a layer of rich
manure dug into and incorporated with the soil in
the bottom of the trenches. The plants should be
divided if a potful contains moro than one, and be
planted about one foot apart along the middle of
the treuches. The balls should be made as small
as possible, in order that they may come into
pots of the same size as those they were taken
from. It is a good practice to remove all of the
small suckers before planting the roots, and setting
these out in land apart if an iucrease of plants
is needed. Another, and a very satisfactory
method, is to lay the plants on their sides on the
ground in the open air- during the summer, and
entirely withhold water from the soil. The
foliage then dies down, aud the plants remain
dormant till about the end of the month of August,
when signs of renewal of growth will appear.
The plants should then be turned out of their
pots, the old soil shaken from the roots, and
these potted siugly iu a compost consisting of
three parts loam and one part rotten hotbed
manure; the small tubers being removed, and
placed to the number of four iu a 6-inch pot if
stuck is required. The plants should be firmly
potted, ample space being left for holding water ;
stand them in common frames, aud keep close for a
week or ten days.

Bouvardtas. — The older plants may be transferred
to cold pits or frames at this season, gradually
increasing the amount of air afforded, and after a
week let full exposure take place in the daytime
during fine weather. A syringing in the morning
and evening will keep down red-spider, which is
otherwise apt to be troublesome. Young plants
raised iu the early spriug time should be cultivated
in an intermediate temperature, affording them a
shift iu to larger pots whenever this is necessary.
Pots of 5 or G inches in diameter will be sufficiently
large iu which to flower these youug plants.

Herbaceous Calceolarias. — A pinch of seed may
be sown now. To raise Calceolarias with success,
let a few 4A-inch pots be rilled with finely-sifted
loam three parts, leaf-soil one part, and some
silver-sand, having put in an inch of finely-broken
crocks ; after making the surface even, saturate
the soil by immersing the pots almost to the rim in
water. After allowing the water to drain away,
sow the seeds evenly and thinly, but do not cover
them with soil ; a sprinkling of sand, however, is
allowable. A sheet of glass or paper should be laid

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Bolford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Cannas. — Twenty years ago Cannas were grown
chiefly as subtropical plants, to be admired for their
fine foliage ; but, thanks to M. Crozy and other
French hybridists, we have now both line foliage
aud showy flowers combined, the habit, too, being
also rendered sturdier and dwarfer. Not only will
Cannas grow iu full sunshine, but they are success-
fully grown in partial shade. They are easy to
cultivate providing the soil is light and rich ; and
when throwing up the flower-spikes, manure -water
is liberally afforded. Although they form neat
beds of themselves, they are more effective when
mixed with Tobacco and Castor-oil plants, at a
distance of 1 yard apart, with a ground-work of
Melianthus major, or Centaurea gymnocarpa ; and
where thedark bronze-foliaged varieties are planted.
Gazania splendens, or the dwarf Evening Prim-
rose (Oenothera macrocarpa), make a pleasing
contrast.

Asters. — The German and French Asters alike
form fine masses of colour in borders or in beds. At
Westonbirt we plant them in beds of 4 feet wide iu
the reserve-garden, the beds being dressed witlt
rich, fresh loam, and after digging, making the
soil firm. The plants under this kind of treatment
grow sturdily, and au occasional application of
weak liquid-manure is afforded till flowering line-.
When planting Asters, let each be lifted so as net
to break the fibrous-roots, aud plaut at a distance
of 15 inches apart. The Paouy-flowered varieties
are very noble-looking, aud the Victoria strain,
with double and imbricated flowers, form pyramids
of blooms. The flowers of the Chrysanthemum-
flowered Comet Aster resemble a .Tapaueso Chrys-
anthemum, the petals long, and recurving from the
centre to the outer petals. The shape is semi-
globular. This variety requires a little more root-
feeding than most varieties, and they are taller in
growth, while the dwarf Chrysanthemum flowered
Asters bloom much later, aud look well when used
as edgings to beds of other species of plants.

Sweet Peas. — The latest sowing may now be
made. The plants from early sowings, when they
have reached a height of 4 inches, should have
sticks placed to them, but leaving the lines of
sticks open at the top. Afford occasionally mild
soot-water ; it gives strength to the growth, and
increases floriferousness.

Roses. — Now is the time to remove all weakly
growths from Tea and Hybrid Perpetual varieties.
Briars that were budded last year as standards
should not be allowed to flower, but be pinched
back to three or four buds, which soon starting
to grow, will form finer heads this seasou.
The shoots of Briars planted during the past winter
should be thinued to two or three, and these
as near together as possible, and according to the
height of the stem required. Where Roses are
subject to mildew, the parasite may be prevented
and removed by using anti blight mildew powder,
distributed by means of the Malbee bellows.

and berries are duly thinned, and other necessary
attention afforded, these rarely fail to ripen per-
fectly in the southern counties in ordinary summers.

Strawbevnit a. The remarkable iucrease of warmth
during the past few days will greatly hasten the
ripening of outdoor Strawberries, aud by the time
this appears some of the earliest fruits will be ripe.
In most gardens, the fruits have to be protected by
fish-netting laid over the beds or lines as soon as
the fruits commence to colour. Where Straw-
berries are grown near to a wall, short wooden
stakes may be driven into the soil along the front,
with about 4 feet out of the ground, and at a
distance of about 8 or 10 feet apart. On the top of
these a thin batten may be nailed lengthwise of the
border, and the netting be suspeuded from the top
of the wall and over this trellis to the front of the
border, pegging it down to the ground, or to boards
set on edge, which is better. Where large quarters
are covered with netting, a framework should be
erected high enough to carry it to allow of a
person to pass easily under it when gathering the
fruits. Mice sometimes nibble the fruits, or bite
through the stalks and collect the fruit into heaps ;
and when this is the case, numerous baited traps
should be set for them forthwith.

Peach and Nectarim Trees. — The final dis-
budding should lie finished soon, all gross shoots
pinched back to a basal lateral, and blistered
leaves removed and burnt. Then comes the
thinning of the fruit, which, I fear, in many cases
will not be needed — at least, not to any great
extent. At Dropmore, most of the trees carry
more fruits than should remain, and as a beginning
all clusters have been reduced to oue fruit each,
and all badly-placed, undersized ones removed.
The early-ripening varieties, Waterloo, Alexander,
and Amsden June, have set their fruit thickly
this season, and these have already been thinued.
If a heavy application of water be made to tin-
border, the size of these early fruits will be in-
creased, for notwithstanding the many showers that
fell last month, the borders that skirt the garden-
walls still require much moisture. If not already
mulched, the border for a width of 4 feet measured
from the wall should be covered with a 2-inch layer
of half - rotten stable-manure. Water may be
applied before aud after tins is put on the border.
The trees should be syringed with cleau water daily
at li or 7 v. M.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq., Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

Grape-vines. — The present is a suitable time for
planting varieties of the Grape-viue in south and
other warm aspects against walls. The plants
should have been prepared for the purpose last year,
being by preference stroDg cut-backs, grown iu
pots, aud they should have made a little new
growth. Assuming that stations have been formed
for their reception, let the plants be turned out of
the pots, shake a portion of the soil from the roots,
liberating some of these, and lay the roots out
horizontally, and radiating round the stem. Then
work the finer particles of soil about these, fill the
hole, and tread it firmly all over, applying a mulch
of partially-rotten manure. The common Sweet-
water and its variety, the Parsley-leaved, are desir-
able for out-of-door fruiting. When the bunches

THE APIARY.

By Expert.
Hiving Swarms. — Hiving swarms is a very
simple matter, uidess the bees happen to cluster in
awkward places. When this occurs, the bee-
keeper must exercise his judgment iu adapting his
procedure to the circumstances. Usually, however,
there is no need for the troublesome precautions
sometimes recommended. With a frame hive,
ready for introducing the swarms into, it needs
but to get the swarm into a skep by holding it
underneath aud shaking the bees from the bough
on which they are clustered iuto it, carry them
to the frame-hive aud throw the swarm on to
the platform, or by some similar meaus of running
bees in, according to the form of frame-hive used.
If they settle too low down to allow of the skep
being held beneath, spread acluth under the swarm,
and on it fix the skep with the edge raised up,
shake the bees on to the cloth, and they will soon
run iu. The only precaution we advise, is that
beginners defer introducing swarms to frame-hives
till after sundown. It is advantageous to feed all
newly-hived swarms with thin syrup for a day or
two, and to continue it whenever the weather
happens to be wet or cold. Second swarms require
particular attention by way of keeping them wane
and cosy. They must not be allowed to occupy
more than four or five frames, to be iucreased to
six or seven before the end of August, and when
this number is fully worked out, the bees will
winter on them nicely. It also greatly facilitates
comb-building — when the bees are uot very
numerous— if the entrances are kept narrow, aud a
board is firmly weighted down over the quilts,
provision being made for feeding regularly. Where
comb-foundation is given in full sheets to swarms,
fix it very firmly on the top bars, or it may break
down when subject to the great heat of a newly-
hived swarm. It is safer to alternate the foundation
with frames of ready-built combs, and at the same
time allow a little ventilation at the top for a day
or so after hiving where full sheets of foundation
are used.

578

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 10, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

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
t?ie 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.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, £c; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending
to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, June 10-

TUBSDAY,

June 13

WEDNESDAY, Ji*E 11

THURSDAY,
FRIDAY,

Jt'NE 15-
JUNE 16-

-Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

Royal Horticultural Society's Com-
mittees.

National Rose Society, Committee
Meeting.

Royal Horticultural Society of Ire-
land, Meeting.

Cambridge Horticultural Society,
Exhibition.

Grand Yorkshire Exhibition and
Gala at York (3 days).

Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show
at Launceston (2 days).

Linnean Society, Meeting.

Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY, J

T1C00 Begonias, Greenhouse Plants,
une 14 < Dahlias, Japanese Lilies, &c,

'I

atProtheroe & Morris' Rooms.

FRIDAY,

T . , ( Imported and Established Orchids,
June Id < *.

at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS talteii in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, Loudon, for
the period May 28 to June 3, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

1899.

g

b

O

K
O

e

o

s
a

Temperature of
the Air.

g

Tempera-
ture OF THE
Soil at9 a.m.

S5

o

H

a
p

H

<

At 9 a.m.

<

a

B
O

&

©
o

3

a.

«

3

d

o

3

- J

s «

i?
a

■3

«

Is

m

V

•a

a

o

►5

H
m

O

1 (

deg. deg. deg. deg.

ins.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Sun. 2s

N.N.E.

50-5 15:360-0

37-1

51-2

52-8

51-9

2S-9

Mon. 29

N.N.E.

53-5 51963-9

3.VS

531

52-9

519

20-5

Tues. 30

S.E.

57-9

51r8 68-']

36-6

55-5

53-6

51-9

29-4

Wed. 31

S.S.W.

61-5

52-6 71-0

39-4

56'9

54-5

51'9

32- 0

Thu. 1

S.E.

70-1

58-076-9

4(i-4

59-2

55-5

52-1

37-8

Fri. 2

s.s.w.

74-2

60-2 80-5

54; 6

lil-6

50-5

52-2

45-0

Sat. 3

N.N.E.

61 -5

:.3-l 75-]

50- '.i

Tot.

62-3
57-1

57-7
54-8

52-6
»1

io;6

Means...

61-3

53-3 70-'.'

43-0

34-4

Remarks.— The weather during
and dry.

the week lias been warm

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-threo Years, at Chiswick. — 60'6\
Actual Temperatures : —

London.— June 7 (12 p.m.): Max. so' ; Min. 54°.
Provinces.— June. 7 (6 p.m.): Max. 0-j", South Counties;
Min. 49*, Shetland.
Fine ; hot ; cooler ; no rain.

Paris Interna-
tional Exhibi-
tion.

We have received through the
courtesy of the Director of the
Royal Gardens, Kew, a series of
documents relating to the Horti-
cultural Department of the Great Exhibition in
Paris in 1900, and containing the general
arrangements for the permanent and temporary
exhibitions. The documents in question occupy

some 136 pages, from which we can only con-
dense a few leading particulars. We may say,
however, that the schedules are framed with
that clearness, accuracy of statement, and
orderly arrangement, which are characteristic
of French official papers.

The permanent exhibits comprise instru-
ments, machines, structures, tools, garden-
decorations, plans, books, greenhouses, fruit
and other trees permanently planted out, &c.
Applications for space may be made up to
June 15, 1899.

Fruit-trees and ornamental trees intended for
permanent exhibition should be planted in the
course of 1899, or at latest before March 15,
1900.

Temporary exhibitions will bo held on the
following dates in 1900 :— April 17, May 8,
May 22, June 12, June 26, July 17, August 7,
August 21, September 11, September 25,
October 9, and October 23.

At these exhibitions collections from ama-
teurs, nurserymen, and public bodies will be
received according to the terms of the schedule
for each particular date.

Among the regulations we find a distinction
drawn between " lots " and " collections." The
lots may contain numerous specimens of the
same species or variety ; but in " collections "
only one specimen of the same species or variety
can be shown.

Foreign exhibitors desirous of taking part in
these temporary exhibitions, should make
application through their Commissioner at
least six weeks before the allotted date, and
they will receive notice at least three weeks
previously of their admission to the Exhibition.

It is obvious that such a regulation, if strictly
enforced, would shut out many important
exhibits. It will not be possible in all cases to
say six weeks, or even three weeks beforehand,
that a particular plant will be tit for exhibition.
To meet such cases, there are various ('concours
imprevus" on each occasion, and these unfore-
seen contingencies or competitions may, and very
likely will, prove the most important elements
of the temporary exhibitions.

Turning to details, we find that Class 43 is
intended to comprise garden structures, tools,
implements, herbaria, books, &c. The tem-
porary exhibits in this class comprise pumps on
June 12 ; lawn-mowers on August 7 ; spraying
apparatus on August 21, and heating-apparatus
on September 25.

Class 44 is devoted to kitchen-garden plants.
At each of the meetings above enumerated,
exhibitions of vegetables according to the
season will be shown.

Class 45 is devoted to fruit-trees and fruits.
The permanent exhibition consists of trees and
shrubs grown out-of-doors.

Temporary exhibitions will be held on the
dates already specified, from April 17 to Octo-
ber 23, both inclusive.

Class 46 includes trees, shrubs, ornamental
plants, and (lowers. The permanent exhibition
will consist of ornamental and of forest trees
and shrubs, including Roses. The temporary
exhibits are devoted to plants and flowers of
various kinds, according to the season, on each
of the allotted dates, competitions for new
plants being held on each of the dates.

Class 47 is concerned exclusively with stove
plants. In this division, there will be no per-
manent exhibition ; but at the various tem-
porary exhibitions, new plants, plants according
to season, and plants remarkable for good
cultivation will be represented.

Class 48 takes cognisance of seeds and seed-

ling plants. The permanent collections will
consist of seeds of various kinds, and of nursery
stock and lawns. Temporary exhibitions will
be held on April 17, May 22, and October 9.

We trust that as the facilities offered by out-
French friends are great, our nurserymen will
cordially respond to the appeal made to them.
Of one thing we may be sure, that if on certain
points of detail we are surpassed by our conti-
nental rivals, and if we have something to learn
from them, yet British horticulture in the main
will be well able to hold its own.

Points about the ^HEN writin8 or speaking about
Temple Show, what there was, and what there
was not exhibited at the Temple
Show last week, it is worth remark that not
one group of Codiasums (Crotons) was there.
This is the more remarkable, because there is
scarcely a garden in the country that has a hot-
house, where some of these plants may not be
seen. A collection of the best varieties to date
might have been anticipated, therefore, at the
Temple Show, especially as there are season after
season very large exhibits of Caladiums, equally
beautiful plants, but more tender and less suit-
able for the inevitable present-day furnishing
business than are Crotons. Indeed, apart from
the Caladiums, indoor foliage-plants generally
are not given a conspicuous position at these
shows. Messrs. Wills & Seuar, Mr. Iceton,
Messrs. Fisher, Son A Sibray, and one or two
other exhibitors, had groups in which were
specimens of several species of ornamental
foliage - plants, most of them small, but in
none of them was it attempted to display a
representative collection of one species.

To change the general effect to be seen at the
Temple Show from year to year, as seems so
desirable, is not an easy matter. The simplest
method would be to change the date of the
exhibition. By so doing a different lot of
plants altogether could be got into bloom ; but
the usual date is, we expect, not capable of
alteration, and is necessary to the degree of
success the event lias attained.

Another means would be to compile a schedule
each year, purposely omitting certain plants
that formed an important feature at the pre-
ceding show, and thus providing space for new
exhibits. But this could only be done to a
limited extent. Who, for instance, would
think of excluding from a Temple Show, even
for one year, the displays of Orchids, Roses,
or Begonias? Yet it is just such exhibits as
these that make succeeding shows in a measure
repetitions of former ones. In another column
a correspondent draws attention to the fact that
Pelargoniums were scarcely represented at the
recent show, but we should imagine that had
space been asked for an exhibit of these, it
would have been ru-ovided by some means or
other, and that the omission is on the part of
the exhibitor.

The authorities would not give space for
duplicate exhibits of a plant to the exclusion of
other important species not represented. It is
sometimes argued that the general effect of the
show might be altered if the exhibitors would
but arrange their collections in a different style.
It should be remembered that the space given
for most exhibits is quite insufficient for this,
even were exhibitors inclined to take additional
trouble to make novel arrangements.

The only alteration worth mention that
could be done by mere arrangement must be
done by the Society itself, and by giving
to each exhibitor a site as widely different
as possible to that he had in the previous

June 10, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

379

Fig. 134.— guoup of roses.
(Exhibited by Messrs. l'.uil & Son, ofthe Old Surssriej, Cheshuiit, al the Teraple Show.

Fig. 135. — &ROUP of ferns.
Exhibited by Mews. J. Hill & Smii, at the Temple Shuw.

380

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 10, 1899.

year. Instead of this, we know before enter-
ing the tents where the Orchids will be,
and where the Roses, Begonias, Cannas, and
many other plants are likely to be found.
Some of the photographs of groups which were
taken for as last year, but not used, might well
have been utilised this year, so slight was the
difference in tho plants, and in their method
of arrangement. There might be much more
variety obtained in this direction.

In regard to the financial aspect of the show,
the council, since it abandoned the strict
measures taken four or five years ago, when the
tickets of fellows and exhibitors were punched
upon entering, has not given the least oppor-
tunity for complaint on this score. But several
cases that came to our knowledge at the recent
show seem to indicate that some of the Fellows
are too exacting in their demands on the
Society. A Fellow's transferable ticket may be
passed to a friend or a friend's friend perhaps,
but it was surely not intended that such a
ticket should admit a person to the grounds
lief ore the previous one that used the same
ticket has left them. That this was done in
some instances is matter of common knowledge,
and is highly discreditable.

From the official catalogue, it appears there
were about ninety exhibitors on the last ocea-
sion, but many of these showed several
collections of plants. H.R.H. the Prince of
Wales visited the exhibition on the second day.
In our present issue we give several additional
illustrations which neither time nor space per-
mitted us to give last week. No further ex-
planation of them beyond reference to our
report last week is necessary.

Naturally this subject is at
Gar'byRaii!"<;tS 1'i'esent exciting much interest

among consumers living in towns.
To Londoners, especially, the system inaugu-
rated by the Great Eastern Railway Company
in 1895 is of much value. Considerable suc-
cess lias attended the action of this company,
as the undermentioned figures show. Packages
conveyed in December, 1805, 1,378 (one month) ;
in the following year ending December, 60,034 ;
in 1897, 112,104; 1898 showed 135,860. The
company forwards from every station on their
system to London, and stations in the eastern
suburbs, at a reduced charge of 4<1. for 201b.,
one penny additional for every 5 lb. or part
thereof up to 60 lb., including delivery
within the usual limits (about a three-
mile radius from Charing Cross), and
special arrangements have been made witli
Messrs. Carter, Paterson & Co. for delivery
in suburban districts beyond these limits. These
rates will only apply subject to the following
conditions : produce to be packed in boxes on
sale at the different stations, or similar ones ;
boxes to be secured only by nails ; the produce
to be conveyed at owner's risk, and carriage
prepaid — prepayment by parcel-stamps, to be
had at the stations. No box to be of a greater
weight than 60 lb. A pamphlet, to be had
from the Company's agents, affords a long list
of farmers and others who are prepared to send
produce by passenger-train, and this will be
found of great value to intending customers.

The G. N. Railway Company forward small
parcels from about 170 stations on their system
to London and other cities at the following
educed charges, irrespective of distance : up to
20 lb. (inclusive) 63. per package ; over 20 lb. ,
up to and including 30 lb., 8d. ; 30 to 40 lb.,
lOrf. ; 40 to 50 1b., Is. ; 50 to 60 lb., Is. 2d.
These rates apply to every description of pack-

age that will admit of other packages being
placed upon it. All other particulars, including
a long list of producers, may be had from the
Company's agents and stations.

The L. & N.-W. Company inform us that
their arrangement for this year's carriage and
delivery of small parcels of garden, farm-pro-
duce, &e., are practically the same as last
year, and that the minimum charge has been
reduced from Qd. to 4d. per consignment. The
"owner's " risk scale of rates, and directory of
producers willing to supply produce, &c, may
be obtained from the Company's agents, and
will be found of much use.

The Midland Ry. Company's Superintendent-
will also supply information on this matter.
The railway officials state that at present they
do not contemplate the making of new arrange-
ments respecting the carriage of garden and
farm- produce ; but the agents of the Company
will furnish every kind of information necessary
respecting produce carried by passenger-train.

It a]jpears to us that the various railway
companies are warming to the work before
them ; it certainly seems to indicate the
betterment of dividends, and the increased
accommodation of consumers resident in cities
and towns.

Birthday Honours. — In commemoration of
the Queen's birthday, Dr. Burdon Sanderson,
the Kegius Professor of Medicine in Oxford, known
in the botanical world for his researches on the
electrical phenomena observable in plants, has been
made a baronet. Prof. Michael Foster, who
needs no introduction to our readers, is made a
K.C.B. ; andMr. James Sykes Gamble, the author
of the Manual of Indian Timbers, and the author
of the excellent monograph of the Bamboos oj
British India, has been selected as a Companion of
the Order of the Indian Empire. There are so
many "orders" nowadays that it seems a pity
that some of them are not consolidated into an
Order of Merit, with appropriate departments. As
things are at present, it is, to say the least, incon-
gruous to give the same "honour" to a city
magnate, a political opportunist, or a man of many
acres and much cash, as to a member of the
services, a judge, or a distinguished man of science.

The British Association at Dover.— In

connection with the forthcoming visit of the
British Association to Dover, for their annual
Congress, the hospitality and entertainment com-
mittees have, in connection with the officials of the
Association, arranged a very comprehensive and
diversified programme. The gathering will com-
mence on Wednesday, September 13, when the
President, Sir Michael Foster, K.C.B., will
deliver his address. On Thursday, the members
will be invited by the General commanding the
district to a garden-party at Dover Castle ; and in
the evening, the Mayor will entertaiu the Associa-
tion at a banquet. On Friday, there will be a
smoking concert in honour of the President at the
Town Hall. On Saturday, the French Society of
Science will visit Dover, and there will be a com-
bined excursion to Canterbury ; and on Sunday,
there will be special services, military bands will
play in the Connaught Park, Dover, aud there will
be organ recitals at Canterbury Cathedral and
Dover College Chapel. For Monday, a garden
party in the College grounds has been arranged,
and a military tattoo by the bands of Dover garrison
in the evening on the sea-front. On Tuesday,
there will be an afternoon party to the Warren, the
picturesque underclitf between Dover audFolkestone,
locally known as Little Switzerland ; and in the
evening the Mayor will entertain the members at a
conversazione. On Wednesday, there will be an
excursion to Calais, and a ball at the Dover Town
Hall ; on Thursday, the Association will return the
visit of the French Society at Boulogne ; aud for
the five next days, until September 21, the pro-

gramme includes excursions to Amiens, Antwerp,
Brussels, Ghent, aud Ostend. The botanical
section will be presided over by Sir Georce King,
lately Director of the Koyal Botanic Garden,
Calcutta.

Royal Horticultural Society.— The next

meeting of the committees of this Society will be
held on Tuesday, June 13, in the Drill Hall, James
Street, Westminster. At 3 o'clock a lecture on
"Bock Gardens, Ponds, aud liivulets in Gardens."
will be given by Mr. F. AV. Meyjeb.

Linnean Society.— At the evening meeting,
which will be held on Thursday, June 15, 1899, at
S P.M., the following papers will be read :—
1. " Contributions to the Natural History of Lake
Urmi and its neighbourhood," by Mr. It. T.
Gitntiier, M.A. ; 2. "A systematic Revision of
the genus Najas," by Mr. A. B. Bendle, M.A.,
D.Sc, F.L.S. ; 3. "On the Anatomy and
systematic position of some recent additions to the
British Museum collection of Slugs," by Mr.
Walter E. CoLlinge, F.Z.S. ; 4. "The Edwardsia
stage of Leliruuia, and the formation of the
(Esophagus and Gastro-cadomic Cavity," by Mr.
J. E. Di'eriun, A.B C, So.

"My Roses, and How I Grew Them."—

By Helen Milmau (Mrs. Caldwell Croftox), pub-
lished by John Lane, The Bodley Head, Londou
and New York. At first sight this book seems
small, both in size aud in quality. It chronicles
the horticultural adventures of an amateur, but as
these are evidently genuine, and were ou the whole
successful, the enthusiasm with which they are
narrated will awake an answering glow in other
non-professional gardeners. Everyone loves Roses,
anil there seems to be an inexhaustible demand for
books on the subject, although the name of these
is already legion. The one before us is a simple
record of an amateur's work, detailed for the
benefit of other novices, and may therefore help
and eucourage them better than a more ambitious
book could do.

"An Encyclopedia of Gardening."— This
is a "dictionary of cultivated plants, aud an
epitome of the culture of all the kinds generally
grown in gardens in this country." It is from the
practised pen of Mr. T. W. Sanders, aud it is
the third edition which now lies before us. There-
fore no more need be said to prove it a trustworthy
and practical book, excellent for reference as con-
taining much information in a handy form.
(Publishers, W. H. and L. CoLLINGRIDGB, Alders-
gate Street.)

" The Boys' Own Paper."— In the June
part of this popular magazine we note a good
article by Mr. W. Watson, entitled "A Chat
about Lilies." To us the dialogue form in which it
is written is a little irritating, and suggestive of
En nings at Home, and other highly instructive old
friends ; however, it gives scope for plenty of
useful information. As illustration, there is a
large coloured plate, by Mr. John Allen, and a
diagram of it showing thirty-two species of Lilies,
so beautiful aud gorgeous as to rouse emulation in
the heart of every boy-gardener wdio sees it.

SUCCULENTS. — We understand that the line
collection formed by Mr. Cooper, of Reigate, is for
disposal. Mr. Cooper is well remembered as an
energetic and judicious collector in South Africa,
aud contributed not a little to the once famous
garden of the late Wilson SauNDEKS.

Coming Rose Shows. — The enclosed fix-

tures kindly sent us by Mr. E. Mawlev, are in
addition to those published in our issues for April 1,
p. 202, and May!!, p. 282 :— June 27 (Tuesday),
Southampton ; July ."> (Wednesday), Hitchin, Bed-
hill (Reigate) ; 8 (Saturday), Manchester : 1 1
(Tuesday), Beading ; 13 (Thursday), Norwich and
Woodbridge; 14 (Friday), Uiverston ; 15 (-Satur-
day), New Brighton.

June 10, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

381

Kew.— " Cyclists will be glad to learn that, by
order of the First Commissioner of Works, a large
cycle-house for the storage of machines is to be
erected at Kew Gardens for the convenience of
visitors cycling to that place. There has been a
similar house at Hampton Court Palace Gardens
for the past twe years," says the Daily News,
"audit is greatly appreciated."

Hampton Court Gardens.— Those of our
readers who may never have seen giant plants of
the old Wistaria chinensis in bloom, could
not do better than pay an immediate visit to
the popular rendezvous of Hampton Court. In
numerous localities does this sweetly pretty Chinese
climbing plant grow and flower abundantly, but
we have never seen such displays as are produced
each year in the grounds of this once royal resi-
dence. Some of the plants are such veterans that
in size and age they are little less remarkable than
the famous Vine, but of which a great deal more is

beds. Every plant has flowered grandly, and they
should be sufficient to persuade gardeners to take
a little more care with the Ranunculus, that at one
time claimed as much attention from the cultivator
as did Tulips. Other floral displays at the moment
are those of the Rhododendrons and hardy Azaleas,
the former being particularly good.

Manuring Fruit-trees in Holstein.— A
method of fertilising fruit-trees in vogue in Hol-
stein is suggestive, and not unworthy of a trial.
The trees, it is said, receive no cultivation, and the
fruit is large, sound, and produced in abundance.
Every two years a few holes are dug in the ground
about 4 or 5 feet from the trunk of the tree, and
about 1 foot deep, closer and shallower in the case
of young trees. These holes are filled with liquid-
manure about four times during the winter months,
and for young trees this is diluted with water. If
there is more liquid-manure than is wanted, it is
distributed over the surface of the orchard, using

grounds of M. Van Houtte, and the University
Botanic Gardens, the former locations of the Ecole
d'horticulture. Visit to the winter garden of
Comte de Kerchove de Denterguem, and to
various horticultural establishments in Ghent and
the vicinity. At mid-may the exhibition will be
opened by the authorities. At 3 o'clock a banquet
will be given at l'Hutel Royal. In the evening a
reception by Baron Raymond de KercHove
d'Exaerde in the hotel of the "Governement Pro-
vincial." Members of the Committee and their
wives will receive a special invitation.

Monday, July 10. — Further visits will be paid
to nursery-grounds in the neighbourhood. At 1 1
in the morning au association of old pupils of the
School will be constituted ; at 2 o'clock a meeting
of the Committees will be held, followed by a
general meeting and the closing of the Congress for
forwarding horticultural education. In the evening,
at 6 P.M., a banquet will be given in honour of
foreign delegates and members of the horticultural

FlU. 136. — AN EXHIBIT OF FKl'IT.
(Exhibited at llic Temple Show by Mr. \Y. Battin; gardener to H. Henderson, Ben.., Buscol Park, Berkshire.)

heard. Their branches stretch quite as far, and
the bark of the principal ones is most interesting.
But there is not only one plant, or a dozen. They
appear to have been planted in almost every con-
venient situation, with the result that a visitor
during the first fortnight in June, when the plants
are literally smothered with pendent racemes of
sweetly-scented, peculiarly-tinted blooms, remem-
bers them afterwards as the pleasantest feature of
the place ; and they overflow even into the village,
for one of the hotek there boasts a fine specimen.
It is a plant that is worth cultivation in any
locality where it can be made to flourish, and in a
good soil, when the plaut has become established,
it is a very quick grower. Sometimes, however,
there Is considerable delay before much growth is
made, and in certain midland counties we have
tried to cultivate the species with indifferent suc-
cess. A few days siuce, when we went to Hampton,
more particularly to again see the Wistarias, the
gardeners were busy putting out the summer bed-
ding plants, which, so far as could be seen, were of
the usual miscellaneous species. But a remark is
well deserved by two large beds filled with varieties
of Ranunculus asiaticus. These were almost all
that remained of the autumn-planted bulbs, and
the gratifying effect of so many beautiful colours
was enhanced by the perfect appearance of the

au old street sprinkling-waggon for the purpose.
There is no reason why manure- water should not
be used once or twice after it is seen what the crop
is likely to be ; of course, not affording any at that
season to trees not bearing a crop, or which are
carrying only a few fruits, as to dose them would
be to encourage, probably, au unnecessary growth
of shoots. But in this matter, the cultivator must-
be guided by the condition of the trees, and of
the soil.

Jubilee Celebrations at Ghent. — An

exhibition and certain fetes are to be held in Ghent
next July in commemoration of the fiftieth anniver-
sary of the foundation of L' Ecole d'Horticulture
de l'Etat. The following is, in brief, the programme
proposed : —

Saturday, July S. — Reception of the members
of the jury, the work of judging, and a lunch to
the jury. In the afternoon, at 3 o'clock, a meeting
in the Academic Hall of the Ghent University ;
appointment of a committee to consider the
advancement of horticultural education ; institution
of the committee, and formation of sections.
Lecture and discussion of the reports of the sections.
In the evening a reception at the Hotel de Ville
by the burgomaster and aldermen.

Sunday, July 9. — In the morning a visit to the

press, succeeded by a fete iu the Casino iu the
Gardeus of the Societe Royale d' Agriculture ot de
botauique, a concert, ball, &c.

Tuesday, July 11, will be devoted to visiting
Brussels nurseries, and the Royal Gardens at
Laeken, and the houses of the Horticulture Inter-
nationale.

Metropolitan Open Spaces.— Ou Saturday,
May '27, a new recreation ground was opened at
Hither Green. The ground, given by Mr.
Cameron, M.P., is 2 acres in exteut, and provides
accommodation for tennis, croquet, and other
games. It is worthy of record here, also that Mr.
E. N. Baxter, a gentleman counected with the
Eppiug Forest Committee, has handed over to the
Corporation to be added to Eppiug Forest, a
beautiful piece of woodland, some 28 acres iu
exteut.

Jewish Gardeners.— We leam from the last

issue of the Gartenflora that besides the Jewish
Trainiug Institute at Ahlem, near Hauover, where
for some years gardeners have been trained and
educated with good results, another school has been
established at Gablenz, near Gassen in Bran-
denburg, by Dr. S. Papilsky, the Vice-President
of the Society, for the advancement of agriculture

382

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 10, 1899.

among the Jews in Germany, at which students
will be enabled to acquire theoretical aDd practical
knowledge. Certain of these students have already
been through the course of instruction at the estab-
lishment at Ahlem. It is Dr. Papilsky's inten-
tion, when a suitable number of young people have
given proof of their intention to join, to establish
a private school of agriculture. With the view of
iraking propaganda the Doctor has undertaken to
publish an address-book of Jewish landowners,
tenants of estates, and stewards.

Royal Seedsmen.— The well-known firm of
Kent & Brydon, Darlington, desire us to inform
our readers that they were, on June 1, appointed
by Royal warrant, seed-merchants to H.R.H. the
Prince of Wales.

Hybrid Anthuriums.— How M. A. de la De-

vansave's efforts in improving Anthuriums were
appreciated in St. Petersburg, is illustrated by the
fact that he obtained the great gold medal, together
with a special prize for the finest lot of stove plants
raised by the exhibitor, a large silver-gilt medal
for six new seedling Anthuriums, and for the
Anthurium Fraxinense x .

The Scottish Horticultural Asso-
ciation.— On Saturday, May 27, the members of
the Society of Gardeners paid a visit to Sir
Charles Tennant's garden, "The Glen," near
Innerleithen ; Mr. R. Laird, Secretary, and Mr.
Todd, Vice-president, accompanying the party.
We shall shortly give some illustrations of " The
Glen," and reserve further remarks until these are
inserted in our pages.

FERNS. — Professor Bower, in a recent number
of the Proceedings of the Royal Society, May 25,
1S99, pursuing his researches iuto the genealogy
of Ferns as a basis of classilication, says : —
"An attempt has been made in this memoir to
strengthen the characters derived from the sorus
by a fresh examination of its details, and certain of
its features will now be used for purposes of general
comparison which have hitherto received too little
attention ; they are : —

1. The relative time of appearance of sporangia

in the same sorus.

2. Certain details of structure of the sporangium,

including its stalk.

3. The orientation of the sporangia relatively to

the whole sorus.

4. The potential productiveness of the spo-

rangium as estimated by its spore-mother
cells, and the actual spore-output.
Observations of these features extending over all
the more importaut liviug genera, coupled with
data of habit and the characters of the gametophyte
(prothallus) as collateral evidence, have led the
author to divide the homosporous Ferns thus : —

stalks. The orientation of the sporangia in the
Simplices and Gradata? is usually definite, in the
Mixta? it is indefinite. The receptacle is often
elongated in the Gradata?, but not in the Simplices
or Mixta?. The sum of these characters, which for
the most part run parallel to one another, appears
to give a substantial basis to the classification."

Bulb Cultivation in Ireland.— We note in
the Dublin papers that early last week, the quaint
and usually tranquil village of Rush, Co. of
Dublin, was roused from its normal condition by
the bustle and excitement incidental to a Vice-
Regal visit. Messrs. Hogg & Robertson, seeds-
men to Her Majesty, Dublin, were honoured by a
command to receive Countess C'adogan, wife of the
Lord Lieutenant, who, attended by Mr. Algernon
Peel, Private Secretary, made an extended
inspection of their bulb-farm. The Narcissus
and Early Tulips were of course over, but
the May-flowering species and Darwin Tulips,
Ranunculus, and Anemones, were at their best, and
the wealth of bloom made a magnificent display.
Her Excellency was pleased to express her satisfac-
tion with her visit, and was specially struck with
the large and varied collection of late Tulips.
Messrs Hogg & Robertson were honoured with an
order for a large collection of Daffodils aud Tulips
to be sent in the autumn to Culford Hall, Earl
Cadogan's residence, near Bury St. Edmunds.

Publications Received. — Bulletin della I: SocUta
Tetania di Orticullura, April. — Tijdschri/l voor Tuinbouw.—
Botanical Magazine (Tokyo).— Flora Jafunica iwitibus Illus-
trates (Tokyo).— From the Crystal Palace Company, Syden-
ham, London, a programme of arrangements for the forty-fifth
season (1899). Among the events most interesting to us, are
the National Rose Society's Exhibition on July 1 ; the exhi-
bition of the Carnation and Picotee Society on July L't ; the
Great Co-operative Show on August 19; the National Dahlia
Society's Show on September 1 and 2 ; aud last, but not least,
the Exhibition of British-Grown Fruits by the Royal Horti-
cultural Society on September 28, 29, and 30.

Simplices

Gradata

MixLc

Maratliaceie Eiisporangiate.

( temundacea?

SclliZil' lerll

Gleicheniareie

L Matonima-
( Loxaomacea!

Hymenophyllac a- Leptoturorangiute.

nyatheaceai

D.cksoniej'
[ Dennt-taedtiina-
• The bulk of the
Polypodiacea-

These divisions are primarily based on the order
of appearance of the sporangia in the sorus, the
Simplices having all the sporangia of the sorus
formed simultaneously, the Gradata; having them
disposed in basipetal succession (from above down-
wards), and the Mixta' having the sporangia of
different ages intermixed. But it is found that other
important characters run parallel with these. Thus
the Simplices and Gradata; have an oblique anuulus
i where definitely present), the Mixta' (with very
few exceptions) have a vertical annulus. None of
the Mixt* have been found to have a higher spore-
output per sporangium than sixty-four, but this
number is exceeded by some of the Gradatse, and
large numbers are the rule in the Simplices. The
Simplices and Gradata' have relatively short thick
stalks, the MixUe usually have long and thin

PLANT PORTRAITS.

l'hkys \n nu MiM Souvenir de Madame Helens de Rey-
dellet, Monitcur d' Horticulture, May, 1899.
Erodium Manescavi, Garden, April '2'.-.
HiiiiiSt-rs uannabinus, Garden, April 15.
Liatris pycnostacbya, Garden, Aprils.
Pa ssi flora amahii is, Garden, April 22.

SllRBUS AUCUPAR1A DL'LCIs, ll.MSStlt.'l', ill ' ■" rfr .< ml! , Hi.

Stat/ce Suworowi, Revue dc V Horticulture lkl<jct May.

KEW NOTES.

The following interesting plants are now
flowering at Kew : —

LONR'KRA HlLDEBRANDIANA.
This, the largest-flowered of all the Honey-
suckles, was introduced from Upper Burma in
1891, but it has only now flowered for the first
time at Kew. It has two - flowered axillary
racemes, and each flower is 6 inches long, and is
coloured bright golden-yellow. A figure of it has
been prepared for the Botanical Magazine. Although
tried under various conditions, it has only suc-
ceeded in the intermediate temperature of the
Mexican-house. At Glasnevin, however, where it
flowered in August last year, Mr. Moore grew it iu
a sunny, airy position iu a greenhouse. It was
figured iu the Gardeners' Chronicle, Sept. 17, 1898.

Rhododendron decortjm.
This is one of the Yunnan species which we owe
to l'Abbc Delavay. It has been iu cultivation ten
years at Kew, where it is now flowering in the open
air for the first time. It seems to be nothing more
than R. Fortunei, which was introduced by Fortune
from Chekiaug, China, and figured iu the Botanical
Magazine, t. 5596 (1866).

Rhododendron Champion.*;.
Although cultivated at Kew for nearly twenty
years, this interesting plant has only flowered two
or three times. It was fouud fifty years ago by
Captain Champion, growing abundantly on rocks
in a raviue at Fort Victoria, Hong-kong, and a

figure of it made by him was published in the
Botanical Magazine, t. 4609 (1851). It is remark-
able for its hairy dark green, wrinkled leaves,
and large pink, Azalea-like flowers. It is now in
flower in the Himalayan-house.

Rhododendron Kingianum.
This plant was found in Munipur by Dr. Watt,
who sent specimens and seeds of it to Kew, where
it has formed a bush 5 feet high, and is now flower-
ing for the first time. Broadly speaking, it is a
form of the variable R. arboreum, and is nearest
that kuown as R. Campbelliae, but it differs from
this and all other forms by its dense habit of growth,
wide leaves, which are distinctly bullate, with
recurved margins, very dark green above, dull dark
brown below. The flowers are in dense conical
heads, aud of a rich crimson colour. In botanical
characters they agree with typical R. arboreum.

Protea cynasoides.
This handsome Protead continues to grow and
flower freely along with the Agaves in the Succu-
lent-house, where it is now bearing three large
Artichoke-like heads of a soft, pink colour. It is
planted in the gravel bed, upon which the Agaves,
&c., in pots are stood, and it gets plenty of air
and sunlight at all times.

IiMI'ATIENS MIRAUILIS.
An exceptionally large specimen of this remark-
able species has lately been forwarded to Kew by
Mr. Curtis, of Penang, and it is now in full le if
aud flower. The fleshy stem is .3 feet high, with
three arm-like branches ; the base S inches in
diameter, the habit suggesting a minature Baobab.
The leaves are ovate, S inches by 3 inches, and the
golden-yellow scoop-shaped flowers are borne in
short axillary racemes. Sir Joseph Hooker, when
figuring this species iu the Botanical Magazine, in
1891 (t. 7195), said, "It would be difficult to con-
ceive a wider departure from the habit of its genus
thau this plant presents. It is an undoubted
Impatiens, but whereas the other species are weak
succulent annuals, or low-branched perennials,
I. mirabilis possesses an erect naked trunk 4 feet
high, and as thick as a man's leg, crowned with a
tuft of many fleshy leaves, nearly a foot long." It
is a native of Langkawi Island.

Lachenalia qdadsicolor.
By far the handsomest form, both as regards size
and colour, of this distinct Lachenalia, is now
flowering in the Cape-house at Kew. It agrees
with the figure in the Botanical Magazine, t. 588,
iu having flowers coloured red at the base, yellow
in the middle, aud rich purple on the upper part of
the inner segments, but it differs from that figure
in having scape and leaves mottled witli brown. It
was sent to Kew by Mr. Butters, St. George's
Park, Port Elizabeth.

Rknanthera Imschootiana.
This beautiful Orchid improves on acquaintance.
It was first described in 1891 from a plant flowered
by Mr. Van Imschoot ; Mr. Woodhall showed it iu
flower at a Drill Hall meeting iu 1895 ; and in the
year following, Messrs. Sander & Co. secured a
small importation of it. One of these plants is now
in flower at Kew, aud although only 8 iuches high,
it has produced a scape 18 inches long, with three
branches and thirty flowers, which are nearly all
open. At first they are coloured bright crimson,
but they gradually change to a rich old golden-
yellow colour. The flowers have all the brilliance
of those of R. coccinea, but the plant promises to
be a better garden Orchid, in that it blooms in a
small state. It is a native of Assam, aud has
been called R. Papilio.

PHAL.ENOrSIS TETRASrtS.
Although introduced about ten years ago from
the Andaman Islands, this species is rarely seeu.
A plant of it is now bearing a spike of creamy-
white flowers in the Orchid-house at Kew.

JrxE 10, 1899.]

THE GAB DE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

383

Masdevallia muscosa.
The mo9sy-scaped species, with a sensitive-
lipped flower, is represented by a large tuft at
Kew, and is now in flower.

EuLOPHIELLA ELISABETH.*.

This plant has found a congenial home at Kew,
as it grows there with exceptional vigour. This
year it has developed two lots of flower-spikes,
four in February and four in May. The fog
destroyed two of the first lot, and it was considered
advisable to remove two of the second. Those left
on are now bearing each about twenty flowers.

CoRYANTHES MACRANTHA.

A fine plant of this, the phenomenal ' ' bucket-
orchid," bore a spike of two flowers in the
Nepenthes-house a fortnight ago, and it is now
pushing a second spike. Those who have never
seen the flowers of this plant should not miss this
opportunity. C. maculata flowered freely in the
same house last year, and a wax model of the
flowers was prepared by Miss Emett. II'. W.

Law Notes.

— »

THE PREVENTION OF CORRUPTION.

At 4.15 the House of Lords, June 0, met for the
despatch of ordinary legislative business, and Lord
Russell of Killowen at once moved the second
reading of his Prevention of Corruption Bill. He
said that the contents of the Bill had already been
so fully explained that it was only necessary on
the present occasion to say that the object of the
Bill was to check by making them criminal a large
number of inequitable and illegal secret payments.
The principle of the measure had been received
favourably by chambers of commerce, trade
societies, and various co operative associations
throughout the country, and an almost unanimous
opinion had been expressed in favour not only of
the principle, but also of the stringent measures by
which he proposed that the principle should be
enforced. He did not desire their Lordships to
understand that the various bodies to which he
had alluded entirely approved of all the details of
the measure, and, indeed, it was his intention to
propose some amendments.

The Bishop of London said that the bill was
concerned with all commercial dealings between
man and man. It dealt with a common mischief,
the principle of which was that no money was to
pass from one person to another without some of it
sticking to the fingers of some intermediate party
to the transaction, and that mischief tended to
destroy trust, to prevent people from being strictly
honest, and to shake confidence. There was a time
when even the occupants of the judicial bench
received gratuities from those who were parties to
litigation before them. The payment of gratuities
w as undesirable in itself, and also because it gave
opportunities for blackmailing.

The Bishop of Winchester also warmly supported
the principle of the bill.

These points were generally endorsed by the Lord
Chancellor, who, however, warned the House against
the danger of going too fast in legislation of this
character. He concluded, however, by saying that
he heartily concurred in the general object of the
measure, and that the Government were not in the
least disposed to offer opposition to the second
reading.

Lord Russell briefly replied, and the bill was
then read a second time.

Gardes Labourers and the Excise.
A n Important Appeal Case.
Before Mr. Justice Day and Mr. Justice Law-
rauce, sitting as a Divisional Court in the Queen's
Bench Division of the High Court of Justice, the
case of Dillon v. The Marquis of Bath came on for
discussion on Thursday. The Attorney-General,
Sir R. Webster, and Mr. Dankwerts appeared for
the appellant, and Mr. Foote, Q.C., and Mr. Scott
for the respondent.

The Attorney-General said this was a case stated
by justices of the county of Wiltshire, and raised
the question whether a oertain number of men,
employed by the defendant, were chargeable as
gardeners or servants under the statute relating to
the taxes on servants employed. The point de-
pended on the facts and on the construction of the
statute. They, on behalf of the Inland Revenue,
submitted that the view taken by the magistrates
was wrong, and that having regard to what the men
did, they were clearly within the statute. The case
stated that an information was laid against the
Marquis of Bath, by the appellant, charging him
with employing, at Longleat Park, a number of
male servants without having taken out a licence
for each of them. The summons was heard at
Warminster, and it was proved that the Marquis
had taken out licences for a number of gardeners
and under-gardeners, but with regard to ten men
and two boys, who were employed in the gardens,
no licences had been obtained, ami it was these
persons as to whom the question arose. The
appellant submitted that they did work which
could only be properly described as gardening, and
therefore a license was required under section IS
of the statute.

On behalf of the respondent it was contended
that such persons were merely unskilled labourers,
receiving labourers' wages only, and therefore
did not require to be licensed, but he (counsel)
should contend that there was uo distinction
at all for the purpose of this taxation between
skilled and unskilled labour. If a man did garden-
ing work, it did not prevent him being taxable if
he was not a skilful person. Take the case of
planting Cabbages. It was said skill was required,
and if he were to try aud do it he might make a bad
job of it. He agreed that the mere fact of the men
being employed in the garden did not. constitute
them gardeners, but because these men divided the
ordinary duties of a gardener among them, that
did not make them merely labourers. One might
do the digging, another the planting, another the
watering, aud so on, but they would nevertheless
be doing gardeners' duties. Therefore, he sub-
mitted, the magistrates were wrong in holdiug that
the men were merely labourers, and not servants
within the meaning of the Act, and, therefore, a
licence was not uecessary.

Mr. Foote, for the defendant, submitted that the
magistrates were right, and said the courts had
taken a view which he now contended for. It was
a mistake to suppose that because a man was em-
ployed in a garden he was a gardener. He might be
employed all day in simply dragging a roller about,
and, whatever he was, whether he was a beast of
burden or doing donkey-work, he was certainly not
a gardener. A gardener must be a person skilled in
tending a garden, and not doing such work as
wheeling a barrow about or digging.

After further argument Mr. Justice Day said he
thought the decision of the magistrates was perfectly
correct. They came to the conclusion that the men
were labourers, aud he thought it was essentially a
question of fact for them to determine, as they lived
in the neighbourhood and knew what the men
were. He thought the distinction whether they
were skilled or unskilled made all the difference,
and was most material to consider. Therefore the
appeal must be dismissed with costs.

Mr. Justice Lawrance concurred, and said he did
not see how any of these persons could possibly be
described as gardeners or under-gardeners.

Appeal dismissed with costs.

Alleged Fraud ox a Gardener.
At the North Loudon Police Court on Thursday,
1st inst., George Clark, an elderly man, described
as a clerk, of Nursery Road, Tottenham, was
charged on remand, before Mr. Bros, with obtain-
ing money from different persons in various parts
of the country by false pretences. Two cases from
Maidstone aud Hayward's Heath were gone into
last week, and other charges were now proceeded
with. Harry Howard, gardener to Mr. Edward

Brooke, J. P., of Ufford Park, Woodbridge, Suffolk,
said that on October 1, he inserted an advertise-
ment in the Gardeners' Chronicle for 150 young
Yew-trees. He received a post-card purporting to
come from " T. Riley, GO, Drayton Park," offering
to send on 150 Yew-trees if a postal order for SOs.
were forwarded. The writer added that his
employer, Mr. J. J. Griffiths, J.P.,of No. 1, High-
bury Grange, was away, so that he was unable to
get a cheque cashed. The witness sent on the
postal orders, but the Yews never arrived, aud the
money was never returned. Mr. Fred Griffiths,
coal factor, of 1, Highbury Grange, said that Mr.
J. J. Griffiths, J. P., was his father. The prisoner
was not his gardener, and he had no authority to
use his name. Various other cases were alleged,
aud in the end the prisoner, who made uo denial, asked
to be dealt with at once.

Mr. Bros committed him to the Central Criminal
Court for trial.

Home Correspondence.

NEW VARIETY OF DAFFODIL, WHITE LADY.—
We have one of the Rev. G. Engleheart's seed-
ling Daffodils, which, we think, is a break away,
in so far as our experience goes. On April 15, we
exhibited blooms at Edgbaston Botanical Gardens,
which were cut from bulbs in the open and fully
expanded in a glasshouse. The bed gave a show of
bloom for a period of ten days from that date, and
the bulbs have been sending up a few blooms till
the present date, each lot being smaller than those
that preceded them. Those we send for your
inspection appear to be the last, and they are less
than half the size of the flowers at their best. It
is unusually prolific in foliage and flower. We
should be glad to hear if any cultivator of Daffodils
knows of any similar variety. We know that it is
no uncommon thing to get a few late blooms from
weakly or deep planted, or injured bulbs, but the
bulbs of this variety are quite healthy, and they
are growing under suitable conditions. Pope .(■ Sons,
King's Norton.

MILDEW ON VINES: CAUSE AND PREVENTION.
— Sometimes violent remedies are worse than the
diseases they attempt to cure ; and I consider that
prevention is better than cure. I never yet saw
mildew in a well managed vinery. It is encouraged
generally by a cold draught, admitted by front
ventilators, and not warmed by passing over hot
pipes. A low temperature, and damp, stagnaut
atmosphere encourage the growth of mildew ; and a
genial atmosphere, proper ventilation and moisture,
are preventives. After the thinning is finished, a
little soot and sulphur placed in the evaporating pans
will help to keep all sweet and healthy. In a
genial, kindly summer out-of-doors, Vines iu the
south of England will ripen good crops of Black
Hamburgh aud Sweetwater Grapes, but if we get
cold winds and damp, unseasonable weather, they
are destroyed by mildew. Tea Roses trained to
dwelling-houses are affected by the same cause.
I should consider that boiling water needs to be
used with great care, and Mr. Mallet would do
good service if he stated at what stage the Grapes
were when he applied the hot-water cure. /.'. M.
Nevbury.

In last week's issue of the Ganh u< rs'

Chronicle, p. 353, is an account of a method
of treating the Vine - mildew by thoroughly
syringing the Vines with water at the boiling-
point. [Not used at the boiling-point. Ed.] I
should not like to try the experiment on any plauts
upon which I set any value, for I feel sure it would
destroy it. I have used hot-water with good effect
in destroying insects infesting plants, but not
hotter than 170°, and even then it destroyed all
kinds of insects without injuring the plants. I
never tried water at this temperature on very tender
plants, although iu the case of some Streptocarpus
which I dipped in water at 170° quickly all the
mealy-bug infesting them was killed, aud the plants
were not hurt at all. I am of the opinion that water
at 170° is a safe and efficient insecticide, as well as
cheap. When a plant is syringed with hot-water,
it should be laid on its side, so that the water cannot
penetrate the soil and injure the roots. Wm,
Smylhe, Basing Park Gardens, Alton.

- — ■ I read Mr. Mallet's note on Vine-mildew
in the issue of the Gardeners' Chronicle for

384

THE GARDENERS* CHRONICLE.

f.liTXK in, 1899.

May 27, and my Vines being attacked with
mildew, I tried the hotwater remedy, the varie-
ties being Black Alicante aud Gros Colman. The
water acted precisely as he describes it, brown
spots, showing where the mildew had been on
the leaves and Grapes. Boiling-water was used
ou Vines, which were unaffected with mildew, and
no injury whatever was visible on the foliage or
fruit. G. Litllewood, Worthing.

PROPOSED MEMORIAL TO THE LATE MALCOLM
DUNN. — I was glad to see the note of "J. S." in the
(lard filers' Chronicle last week. He may rest
assured that something worthy of the man and the
occasion will be done, though those mostly con-
cerned did far better than erect a testimonial to the
dead — they honoured M. Dunn while living, and
few gardeners have died more full of honours than
the deceased. I have heard, however, that three
Scottish societies have already had this matter
before them, the Royal Caledonian, the Scottish
Arboricultural, aud the Scottish Horticultural
Association. It seems very desirable that these
societies should combine their forces with the
Royal Horticultural Society of London, and any
other that might wish to share in the work
throughout Great Britaiu and Ireland, in some
common purpose. But no money should be wasted
in monuments or such like memorials. They
would be singularly out of place here. The
deceased's life and work form hi? most lasting
record. . But, perhaps, a scholarship for young
gardeners, or an endowment to the Gardeners'
Orphan Fund, or the Gardeners' Benevolent, bear-
ing deceased's name, would be the btst form of
memorial, most helpful to gardeners, aud that
would have commanded M. Dunn's approval. An
objection in advance has been raised by some
arboricultural friends, viz., that the orphans of
foresters are not eligible for election as pensioners
oa the Gardeners' Orphan Fund. But surely this
could be readily arranged by makiug foresters'
orphans eligible for election under the Dunn Trust.
The one vital point is to secure united action in the
matter, and to see to it that whatever scheme is
adopted, it shall benefit the living as well as
honour the dead. D. T. Fish, June X.

THE USES OF RHUBARB.— There are round
London alone enormous quantities of Rhubarb
which goes to waste for lack of some means of
utilising it. I have just seen in one of the early
numbers of the Midland Florist, some sugges-
tions for doing this, which may be of service to
some of your readers. One is : — " To preserve
Rhubarb without sugar or the trouble of boiling.
Gather the lihubarb in September, cut the stems
into pieces about 3 inches in length ; procure some
wide-mouthed glass jars, and fill with the pieces of
Rhubarb; then fill up the jars with cold spring-
water, and cork tight, or tie over the mouth a piece
of bladder, or use auy other method which! will
keep the bottles perfectly air-tight (it is of the
utmost importance they be hermetically sealed),
and then the Ehubarb will keep till after Christ-
mas." The person who sends this, remarks: "I
have to-day (January G) eaten of a tart of Rhubarb
so preserved, and in flavour it was quite equal to
the spring-grown Rhubarb, and much superior to
early-forced." Another method of preserving
Ehubarb is "To cut it as for tarts, and to every
pound put three quarters of a pound of sugar, and
boil three-quarters of an hour thoroughly on a
slow fire, stirring it occasionally. This has very
much the flavour of Orleans Plums." "Rhubarb
syrup. — Cut the Rhubarb as usual, then put it in a
jar, which place in a pan of water till the Ehubarb
is reduced to a pulp ; then press it through a cloth.
To every pint of juice put one pound of sugar ;
mix, and put on to boil ; let it boil five minutes,
and then stand till nearly cool. Pour the syrup
into small phials — those formed of thick, dark
glass are best, as the syrup is apt to ferment in
thiu ones. Any fruit may be made use of in this
way, but Easpberries aud Currants need only be
pressed, not stewed. The syrup, with water
added, makes a nice drink, or is valuable to whisk
with cream, or for puddings." The last is — "To
bottle Ehubarb.— Take the stalks in fine weather,
prepare them as for tarts, then put them on in a
pan with water enough to cover them ; when it
becomes so warm that you can only just bear your
hand in it, pour the whole through an earthenware
colander into a jug. Have ready wide-necked
bottles, fill them with the fruit, and then pour the

warm water in so as to cover the Rhubarb ; tie a
covering of bladder on each bottle, leaving them in
the kitchen until it dries on, and then put them in
a cool place out of the way of frost and damp.
When wanted for use boil the Rhubarb-water till
reduced to a little before you put in the fruit ;
this will require very little time to cook. It may
be as well to mention that the bladder used will
require often and careful washing in luke-warm
water, and that the bottles answer better to be
clear and transparent, the Rhubarb not keeping so
well in dark ones. Gooseberries may be preserved
in the same way." D. B.

DOUBLE DARK WALLFLOWERS.— Two varieties
of double dark Wallflowers, Negro and Negress,
have been cultivated in Lancashire gardens for
many years past. The latter is the older in point
of time, and Negro has always been regarded as the
better one, having mulberry- coloured flowers, and
a fine spike ; excellent in colour, very double, and
of good habit. This, it is said, was raised from
seed by a Mr. Charlton. The Lancashire cottage
gardens, at one time forming pleasing features on
the outskirts of large towns or centres of industrial
enterprise, are rapidly disappearing from many
localities ; houses and factories take their place.
But now, in many of them, very choice old-fashioned
things can be found by anyone who has the leisure
to explore them. Not a few of the Lancashire
operatives who possess gardens know the value of
choice things, and they have always held that a
good thing in a garden takes up no more room than
a bad one. If one makes Middleton a centre, it
would be found that within 2 or 3 miles of it are
gardens which would well repay an inspection
because of the interesting things to be found in
them. R. I).

IBERIS PERFECTION. — When manager to Messrs.
Dicksons & Co. , I added to my love of hardy and other
plants the improvement of the perennial Candy-
tufts, and raised at Leith Walk, I. superba ; and
after removing to Pilsig Park the following were
introduced, Climax, capitata and Perfection, and
so far as I know, the first to take in hand the im-
provement of these beautiful and hardy border
plants. Janus Grieve, Sedbraes.

RHUBARB SPINACH has been for many years a
favourite dish with us when we could not get the
true article. The young shoots of the Poke-berry
(Phytolacca decaudra) are also very nice when
boiled. W. 7'., Tt irjnmouth.

RASPBERRY-BUD CATERPILLAR. — I have to
report a bad attack of the Raspberry stems aud
bud caterpillar (the larva* of a moth, Lampronia
rubiella). I was visiting Claverley, near Bridg-
north, on May 12 last, for the purposes of lectur-
ing and demonstration ; aud on visiting the gardens
at Farncote House, the lady — Mrs. Hasleuurst—
called my attention to the Raspberry canes, which
had the appearance of having been severely cut by
frost ; most of the leaves and young shoots being
very brown aud withered. Ou examining some of
the shoots the dark-red caterpillars were seen in
the centre of the terminal buds, which had been
eaten off. I sent afterwards for some specimens,
but no caterpillars could then be found ; they having
doubtless passed into the chrysalis stage.
The attack was so bad that I could only recommeud
the destruction of the Raspberry bed, there beiug
no prospect Of any crop the present year. Miss
Ormerod gives a very good description of this moth,
its life history, mode of attack, prevention, and
remedies in her handbook of Insects Injurious to
Farm and Garden Crops, and according to her
account, it is by no means very prevalent, not
being noticed by her before 18S3, as " markedly
injurious." Wherever observed, measures should
be taken forthwith to prevent its spreading, either
by breaking off the infested buds and shoots and
burning them, or syringing the canes with some
of the insecticides in common use. If the attack is
a very bad one, it is the more prudent course to
destroy the caues, well till the ground, and plant a
vegetable crop, fresh plantations being made else-
where in the autumn. A. Gaut, Shrewsbury. [This
has beeu repeatedly figured in the Ganh tiers'
Chronicle, the latest occasion being on May 9,
1S96, p. 595. Ed.]

OLD FLOWERS AND THEIR GROWERS.— Remi-
niscences, such as those about Tulips, by " R. D.,"
on p. 55, are both interesting and instructive, if

only for the illustrations they portray to the
younger generation of florists, concerning the
change in fashion, systems of culture, or the
methods employed by our forefathers in their
endeavour to perpetuate a fancy for such flowers
as were popular and recognised by a numerous
class in their day. The florist's Tulip iu particular
was one of the foremost of these specialties, and it
is interesting to note what the old nurserymen,
both English and Dutch, of a century ago, catalogued
in this direction. In turning to the pages of the
booklet issued by Messrs. Voorhelm & Schnee-
voght in 1798, and printed in Haarlem, we find
amongst the class described as byblcemens, La Fraise
en Creme, which I take may be translated as Straw-
berries in cream, priced at 150 florins each ; whilst
for Louis XVI., No. 1 selection, 150 florins is
asked ; for No. 2 selection, 100 florins each. Many
other Tulips are priced at GO, 40, and 30 florins
each. Among the Tulip bizarres is found Vain-
queur universe1, 150 florins. In the catalogue
of this same firm for 1801, these values seem to
have been maintained ; whilst in 1805, the No.
2 Louis comes down to 75 florins ; in the same
list, Grand Mouarque Narcissus is priced at 3s. each.
Richard Clarke, florist, at Cambridge, offers in his
catalogue dated 1793, several kinds of Auriculas
at 31s. 6rf. each ; Carnations at 10s. 6d. ; Ranun-
culus, Is. to 21s. per root; Anemone seed, 18s. per
lb. ; Polyanthus seed, 31s. Gd. per oz. ; Carnation
seed, 105s. per oz. James Davey, florist, of Caui-
berwell, offers in 179S, 100 Tulips for £10, whilst
Tulip Princesse de Wirtcmberg is figured at £51)
each ; Dowager Countess of Aylesbury, with a fine
white bottom, £100 each ; and Gloria riorum
suprema, £300. This same James Davey seems to
have removed to King's Road, Chelsea, for in his
list of 1805, dating from there, he offers the fine
By bhemen Tulip, La Joie de Davey, in large type,
at £500 per bulb; he also asks £1 Is. tor Lord
Nelson Carnation, 15s. each for certain Ranun-
culus, whilst for his black-and-green Auricula he
asks 31s. G(/. He invited free admission to see his
Carnations, which were to be iu full bloom on
July 15, 1798; his best were priced at £5 each.
This nurseryman seems to have possessed a
fine collection of Ericas, for he offers fifty
different sorts for 10 guineas. In the cata-
logue issued by Valentin Schertzer & Sou, from
their Magasin at Haarlem, in 1 S07, no fewer thau
fifty varieties of double black Hyacinths are quoted
at prices ranging from G guehlets to 0 florins each,
whilst 20 guelders are asked for a Byblcemen
Tulip. Double Lilium candidura is figured at
4 tlorins each, and a yellow African Gladiolus at
12 florins each. Goring & Wright, successors to
Maddocks & Son, Florists, Walworth, offered, in
1798, several double red Hyaciuths at £8 8s. each ;
aud it is remarkable to note, whilst some five pages
are devoted to the doubles, tbrae lines only are
given to single Hyaciuths, and these are offered at
from Is. to 3s. per dozen. Their most expensive
Tulip was a yellow bizarre called Superbissima
for which 15 guineas was asked. They also offered
double white Lilies of the Valley, Is. 6(/. each ;
yellow spotted Picotees, from Italy, from 2s. to
42s. each ; double white Violets, 2s. 6</. each ;
silver - striped Strawberry plants, with scarlet
fruit, 5s. per hundred ; and a curious late trans-
parent Pea, price 5s. per quart. John Mason,
of the " Orange Tree," 152, Fleet Street, in his list
for 1800, offered some Double Red Hyacinths at
105s. each. His most expensive Tulip is £20 per
bulb, but many are offered at £10. No fewer than
twenty-eight pages are devoted to Eauunculuses
and Anemones, showing what important flowers
they were in his day. Iu James Carter's Bulb
Catalogue for 1S43, these fabulous figures seem to
have disappeared, for his most expensive Hyacinth
is 7s. Grf., and the highest-priced Early Tulip is Is.,
and the Florist's or Late Tulips is. each. Truly
a great fall from the figures of forty years pre-
viously. He offers the Siberian Scilla at (id. each,
he also has a Snow white Gladiolus at 20s. each.
An old print gives a faithful picture of a meetiug
of old-time florists at a public-house sitting-room
in the suburbs of London. It will bs seen they aie
discussing the merits of a novelty, probably an
Auricula or Polyanthus ; and the tankards of beer
and churchwarden pipes take a leading place in
the affair. It was a free-and-easy custom of the
day, and differs materially from the methods
followed at the present time ; yet in their simple
way I have no doubt their knowledge was as
advanced in the particular points they had in
view as our own. Donald Mr/>ontdd.

June 10, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS" CHRONICLE.

385

THE paradise STOCK.— As one of the first to
plant, prove, and commend the general cultivation
of Apples on this healthy fertile stock, I do not
wonder that the usually placid Mr. Geo. Bunyard
seems a little ruffled, on page 354, at a recent
attack made on its health and longevity. Some years
ago is also too vague, and may mean many, any
number from five to fifty years. Then I have been
planting Apples on this Paradise for a period nearer
this latter than the former, and I do not remember
a single one of them wearing out or dying down of
weakness, old age, or disease. In my lecturing and
other tours, I have also seen and noted thousands
of Apples on the Paradise, their leading features
being good health, abnormal fertility, compactness,
and symmetry. Naturally, we are hardly likely to
find so many old Apple-trees on the Paradise, as
the general use of the Paradise as a stock for our
Apples is a modern improvement in fruit-culture,
comparatively of yesterday. But as a matter of
practical experience, I can add ten to fifteen years
to Mr. Geo. Bunyard's thirty, and these venerable
trees of forty or forty-five years old are bearing as
good crops as ever. Yielding anuual crops of the
finest fruits does not seem to have impoverished
them, and certainly under skilful culture and good
management we have not yet reached an age-
limit to Apple-trees mounted on the Paradise. I
do not mean to assert that all Apples worked on
the Paradise are alike healthy, fruitful, or long-
lived, as all Paradise stocks are not the same or
good alike. Soils, site, skill, and treatment, are
of various kinds that greatly influence the health
and longevity of Apple and other fruit-trees ; but I
cannot admit for a moment that a good strain of
Paradise stock necessarily shortens the life of the
tree. D. T. F.

MAKING ROOM AT THE TEMPLE SHOW.—
That, without enlarging the area of the tents at
the Temple Gardens it is possible to make pro-
vision for greater variety of exhibits, there can be
nodoubt. Thus, whilst the finest groups, thinly and
artistically arranged, of Japanese Acurs were out-
side, two or three groups of these plants were occu-
pying space in the tents, very much crowded, and
greatly losing in grace and beauty, as compared
with the pleasing effects produced by the outside
groups. Surely all these can be put outside auother
year. Growers of Caladiums may, perhaps, object
to the suggestion, but these plants show so little
variation from year to year that they might for
once be left out of the show schedule, and some,
thing else be substituted. Some things, which no
one cares specially to name, are exhibited in too
large numbers, necessitating great repetition. These
things would rather gain than lose, if but one half
the number of plants were staged, and those rather
more thinly, it seems odd that whilst Begonias
loom so bulkily, and with great sameness, we see
no representation of Show, Fancy, zonal, Ivy-leaf,
or other Pelargoniums, or of Fuchsias. Orchids,
beautiful as they are, become monotonous when
twenty collections are but reproductions almost one
of another. Did exhibitors put up distinct families
or genera, or restrict themselves to Cattleyas, or
Odoutoglossums, or Dendrobinms, &c, then the
result would be very interesting. Orchids do
seem to get by far the lion's share of the tent-
space, and yet they are far from being everybody's
plants. A considerable pruning of the space
allotted to some exhibitors, thus enabling other
descriptions of plants to be staged, would harm no
one, and help to make the show more varied and
attractive. There is no fear of having too much of
forced fruit ; even more than was seen at the
recent show would be welcome if as good. But of
vegetables, far too much that is mere packing, or
of inferior merit, was seen, and some limitation
might well be put on dishes, or varieties shown
which should be of the very best only. A, D.

HARD AND SOFT WATER.— During the present
hot .weather, many gardeuers may be obliged to
use hard water to their plants, which is known to
greatly injure certain species. I have beeutold by
Mr. Le Pordevin, a nurseryman in Guernsey, that
his spring water is exceedingly hard ; when he is
obliged to use this water he puts i ounces of
common washing soda in each 50 gallons. He
I i ist dissolves the soda in a little warm water and
places the whole in a tank, allowing it to stand
twelve hours before using. The soda acts on the
other minerals of the soil, and thus becomes a con-
veyer of plant-food to the tissues of the plants, and
consequently feeds as well as waters the plants to
which it may he applied. /. J. Willh, Harpcnden,

CYPRIPEDIUMS.

In the struggle for existence among fashionable
Orchids, Cypripediums easily hold their own. Like
Tennyson's brook, "Orchids may come, and Orchids
may go, but Cypripediums go on for ever." Nor
is the reason far to seek. The great majority of
this distinct group are plants of easy culture, quick
propagation, and reasonable price. This last con-
sideration is by no means the least ; as the writer
of these notes has found, one can get together a
large collection of Cypripediums without going to
the expense and trouble of becoming a millionaire.

( 'ypripediums are by no means so gorgeous as
the aristocratic Cattleyas, nor so dazzling as the
ephemeral Dendrobinms, nor are they so graceful
as the delicate Odontoglossums; yet all these draw-
backs are amply made up in Cypripediums by the
extraordinary range of variation they present, the
great durability of their flowers, and their evergreen
aud variegated foliage, handsome all the year round.
Thanks to recent advances in hybridisation, the
dull and sombre hues of some of the larger species
have been eliminated, the brilliant shades of the
smaller species have been combined with the
graceful forms of the larger ones, thus evolving
new types superior in every way to the old
natural species. All these things have tended to
maintain the popularity and increase the interest
in Cypripediums.

At the same time, a dilliculty has arisen in the
undue multiplication of Latin names for all these
new forms and varieties, a difficulty which
threatens to overwhelm the amateur when first
starting a collection. It is with much pleasure,
therefore, that we received lately the new edition of
M. Desbois' well krown hand-hook, first publ'shed
in 1S8S, and already mentioned in these columns. A
comparison of the two editions impresses one with
the remarkable advances of hybridisation during
the past ten years. In the original edition about
150 species, varieties, and hybrids of Cypripedium
were described ; while in the new edition the number
is increased to considerably more than 1000 ; in
fact, nearly I1U0 named forms are describe. 1.

Necessarily the work has been chiefly one of com-
pilation, the descriptions being drawn from the
leading publications on the Continent, in England
and America, the Gardeners' Chronicle naturally
holding a conspicuous place. In addition to these
published descriptions, we have original notes by
the author, of the varieties that have come under
his own observation.

After a short introduction, we have a few notes
on the geographical distribution of Cypripediums
in a state of Nature. The author divides them
iuto three groups, viz: — ( 1 !, about thirty species
inhabiting the temperate regions of both the Old
and New World ; (2), about fifty species growing
in the tropics of the Old World ; aud (3), about
fifteen species in South America. This seems to be
a fairly natural way of grouping Cypripediums in a
natural state, though it should be pointed out that
three of the South American species form a distinct
natural group of themselves, by reason of their tall
reed-like habit, their plicate leaves, persistent
perianth, and globose seeds, but as none of the
three appears to be in cultivation, we will not
dilate on this point.

Short cultural notes are given for each group,
those referring to the culture of hardy Cypripediums
are particularly interesting and instructive, and are
well worth reproducing here, for the sake of those
gardeners who do not read French : —

"Cypripediums, generally, are found in marshy
places, especially the North American species ;
these, for the most part, come out of peaty bogs.
Often one fiuds them growing in sphagnum-moss and
decayed vegetable matter, but seldom in earth. As
regards shade and light, the species have somewhat
varied tastes ; for example, the beautiful C. specta-
bile (Salisbury) does not like to be exposed to the
direct rays of the sun, and only develops itself per-
fectly when in partial shade ; on the other hand, the
little C. humile, Salisbury (C. acaule, Aiton), does
not mind whether it has sun or not. Of other species

in the United States, C. candidum (Willdenow)
and C. arietinum (R. Brown), grow in peaty places
where the roots are always wet, but the stems are
eutirely exposed to sunlight. The two species with
yellow flowers, C. pubescens (Willd.) and C. parvi-
florum (Salisb.), are not difficult, inasmuch as they
grow equally well in the shade or in full sunlight.
They are found equally in wet and in dry places,
as well as in clay soils ; and they seem particularly
fond of places where there is hard clay. In this
respect they agree with C. calceolus (Linnajus),
which always prefers a limestone soil, and which
does not succeed well under cultivation unless one
grows it in a hard clay soil mixed with limestone.
It seems to prefer exposure to full sunlight;
generally, however, it is wise to give it a little
shade.

"The Siberian species, C. macrauthum (Swartz),
and its near relation C. m. ventricosum (Reichen-
bach, f.), are more difficult to deal with in gardens,
but this difficulty arises, without doubt, from
putting the plants into wet peat, whilst they really
ought to be treated in the same way as C. cal-
ceolus. This latter species grows in company with
C. macranthum, and importations of roots from
the locality where they grow, contain generally a
large number of C. calceolus. Under glass at York
(Messrs. Backhouse & Son), C. macrauthum has
been cultivated with success, and has flowered well
iu a hard limestone soil. C. japonicum (Thun-
berg) is considered to be a very difficult plant to
cultivate, but there is no doubt that it succeeds if
grown in a clay soil instead of wet peat ; it is met
with naturally in damp places, shaded by Bamboos,
aud its fibrous roots penetrate like threads of wire
into the yellow clay soil. The Siberian C. gutta-
tum (Swartz) is perhaps the prettiest of all the
Cypripediums in point of colour, white spotted
with crimson ; it is found on the eastern slopes of
the Ural Mountains. There it is even more
common than C. macranthum or C. calceolus. It
grows in the forests of Birch, Pine, and Poplar,
where the soil is rich in humus and constantly
moist. Apparently, it is only found in the forests
where the three sorts of trees, mentioned above,
grow. It sprouts in the herbage and moss, aud
sec-ms to desire to be submitted to the same treat-
ment that one gives to Pyrola aud Epigea, The
Pelican-flower, as C. Irapeanum (Llave) is called, is
fouud in the highlands of Mexico, at an altitude of
3000 to 3500 feet ; there the conditions are such
that the plants are saturated with moisture at the
roots, whilst the stems are in full growth, but
when the stems die down the soil is dry, and then
the plant enters iuto a period of rest which lasts
all the winter. The bad results obtained in the
cultivation of Cypripediums is caused, in most
cases, by placing all the species under the same
conditions, generally in a moist mixture of peat ;
this is suitable for some species, but not for all."

M. Desbois makes some interesting observations
with regard to the recent triumphs of hybridisa-
tion iu the Cypripedium group, and chivalrously
gives Englishmen their due as the pioneers of
Orchid-breeding. The descriptions of nearly 1100
named Cypripediums, with references to figures,
&c, are given in M. Desbois' book. As men-
tioned before, the list is divided into three groups,
viz. :—

(1) Hardy Cypripediums from the temperate
regions of both hemispheres, comprising about
flirty - five varieties. According to the latest
revision of the genus by Mr. R. A. Rolfe, this
group represents the true and original Cypripedium
(Linnaeus), In the monograph under review, we
note that M. Desbois includes Selenipedium Isa-
belianum (Eodr.) in the above group. This is
obviously a slip ; being a native of Brazil, it
should be included in the third group with the
South American species.

(2) Oriental Cypripediums, species, varieties, aud
hybrids, to the number of about 950. The new
genus Paphiopedium (Pfitzer) represents this group.

(3) South American species ; Selenipedium,
species, varieties, and hybrids, numbering iu all

386

THE GAB DENE US' CHRONICLE.

[JVxe 10, 1899.

about 100. The new genus, Phragmipedium
(Rolfe), represents this group, except three species
not in cultivation, which are examples of true
Selenipedium (Rchb. f.).

We observe that M. Desbois still retains the
peloriate form of Phragmipedium caudatum (Rolfe),
var. Lindeni, under the obsolete genus Uropedium
(Lindl.). This is unfortunate ; new names are
quite numerous enough without reviving old ones
unnecessarily.

The names in each of the above groups are
arranged in alphabetical order, a system which has
many advantages ; though it has its disadvantages,
too, for many of the hybrids described are simply
synonymous, being derived from the same cross
between the same two species.

To show how thoroughly the author has done his
work, one instance will suffice — no fewer than
eighty-three varieties of C. insigne are described ;
and that it is well up to date, the inclusion of C. x
Olivia, C. x Mrs. Reginald Young, and C. I. An-
soni clearly shows. Interspersed among the descrip-
tions are twenty well-grown figures, under their
respective names, one of these, C. x Excelsior
Mais, being a handsome photograph. Two of the
figures have somehow got misnamed, the one named
C. x Marchioness of Salisbury being evidently
C. x Annie Measures, and C. Fred Hardy is no
doubt a misprint for C. x Mrs. Fred Hardy, a
totally different plant. We are also sorry to miss
the customary sign of hybridity throughout the
work ; without this x , hybrids cannot be distin-
guished at a glance, as they should be. C. C. Hurst,
F.L.S.

Book Notice.

Our Gardens. By S. Reynolds Hole.
(London : J. M. Dent & Co. )
EvbrvoUE interested iu horticulture knows what
to expect when the Dean of Rochester writes or
speaks of gardening. He knows that he will be
amused and interested, that old truths will be
presented in a new light, and that new subjects
will be so handled as to appear familiar. It is so
with the volume before us. We venture to think
that the garden-lover who lights on its pages, as a
bee on a flower, will not leave it till he has ex-
hausted its contents. The Dean gossips in the
pleasantest style, witli his old wit and enthusiasm,
and his abounding charity, about the enjoyments
of a garden, its formation, its components, its
variations, in fact, de omne re hortensi. He is
sound and orthodox in his gardening proclivities,
so that his advice, often punctuated with humour,
may safely be followed by the novice.

A second edition of so delightful a book will
surely soon be called for, -which will afford au
opportunity for further needful revisal of the proof
sheets. When we are told at p. 139, that Retino-
spora is a "genius" of Conifers, we are not sure
whether the author may not be poking fun at
the reader. The story of the Aucuba, on p. 124,
must be completely inverted before its correctness
can be vouched for ; and how, in reference to the
Lilac (Syringa), can Linnaeus have " changed the
title of this genus from Lilac to Syringa';"
Who was responsible for calling the PhiladelphuB
Syringa, we do not know. The mistake is so
general that the unravelling of its genesis would be
interesting. Certaiuly Linnaeus could have nothing
to do with it in the way here mentioned.

But these matters of detail are of little import-
ance as compared with first principles, and we take
it that the reader will be charmed with the easy
flow of language, and that universal assent will be
given to the following articles laid down by the
Dean : —

" More grass and less gravel.
More flowers and less bare soil.
More curves and fewer straight lines and angles.
More hardy and not so many half-hardy plants.
More arrangement and less disorder.
More shrubs, evergreen and golden, to cheer the
ungenial day."

Plant Notes.

».-— -

HYMENOCALLIS SCHIZOSTEPHANA.

This unrecorded species was received with a lot
of Hylines imported direct, and is presumably of
Brazilian origin. At first I thought that the laci-
niation of the cup was due to some malformation in
the flowers, especially as many of them were
incomplete in the number of segments and stamens ;
but the bulb has now flowered with me four times,
and these peculiarities have proved persistent.
Leaves, six or seven, one or two being persistent,
and about five issuing yearly, distichous, pedate,
about a foot (or more) long, by 3 to 3} inches wide ;
the leaf -stalks 2 to 4 inches long, winged, and con-
nected at the base in a distinct neck, 3 inches long ;
scape, issuing from within the leaves, a foot or
more in height, aud bearing twelve to twenty sessile
flowers in an erect, crowded umbel ; flowers bear-
ing a general resemblance to those of H. angustum
of Bot. Beg., 221, but the filaments very stout,
and winged at the base, thus forming an irregular
torn -looking cup ; tubes green, 2 to 3 inches long ;
segments about equal in length to the tube, and
\ inch in width ; stamens shorter than the seg-
ments ; style exceeding stamens, but shorter than
the segments ; stigma capitate ; cup about J inch
(or more) in length and width, 6 cleft nearly to the
base ; span of flowers, 5 inches ; span of umbel,
9 inches.

This is a stove plant, aud requires minimum
warmth of about TO1 to open its flowers perfectly :
even then, many flowers have five segments and
stamens, aud some only four. It possesses the
same fragrance as H. speciosa. A. Worshy, Maude-
ville Hous:', Tsleworth.

©bituarp.

Sir Henry Binns.— Intelligence was received
in London on Wednesday of the death of the Premier
of Natal, Sir Henry Binns. The deceased gentle-
man was long aud deeply interested in developing
the natural resources of the colony he had so long
since made his home. Horticulture and agriculture
were much indebted to him ; he early applied
himself to Sugar-planting, and was one of the
promoters of the first sugar-planting company
established in the colony. Tea and coffee-culture
received much attention from the departed Premier,
who, in fact, thoroughly identified himself with
the best interests of this old African colony. The
late Premier was a native of Sunderland, and the
life began in that busy northern town has continued
a busy one until the close.

SOC1 ETIES.

ISLE OP WIGHT.

The monthly meeting of the Isle of Wight Horticultural
Improvement Association was held at Newport on Sal unlay
last. Dr. .1. Groves, B.A., J.P., presided over a gooil
attendance of members.

An excellent paper, by Mr. Juo. Hygate, of Oowes, on the
" Cultivation of Dahlias. "evoked an interesting and profitable
discussion. A bee-keeping sub-committee was elected to
consider the best means of developing this industry iu the

Harden Isle.

Forty-nine new members were elected, which brings the
total number mi the hooks to about 400. On Thursday, .1 line 1 ,
a large number of members availed themselves cf an excursion
Id London to visit the Temple Show. S. IF.

SHIRLEY GARDENERS' AND AMA-
TEURS' MUTUAL, IMPROVEMENT
ASSOCIATION.

Mav 29. —At the montby meeting of the Winchester Gai -
deners' Mutual Improvement Association, which was held on
the above date, Mr. Harry Curtis, Gardener to W. F. (i.
Spranger, Esq., J.P., Southampton, gave an interesting lec-
ture on " Some Hardy Garden Flowers." The chair was
occupied by A. Monro, Esq., and there was a good attendance.

Cultural directions followed for each plant named, making
the lecture of value to young gardeners and others just now
thinking or preparing for next springs display.

A very tine display of hardy cut flowers was made by-
Mr. Curtis.

CHEMICAL MANURES FOR POT

PLANTS.
The practice that had been pursued for at
least two centuries of including rotted manures in
potting composts, and when these were exhausted,
rendering aid to the plant by means of repeated
applications to the soil, of diluted manure-water,
continued till about thirty years ago, almost the
only method of feeding pot-plants. Previous,
however, to that time, the discovery of guano
placed at the disposal of the plantsman an easily
soluble manure, which, it must be said, he was not
slow to avail himself of. By degrees the unques-
tioning belief that crude animal-manures were alone
efficient, has been slowly but surely undermined,
and while recognising their value as aids to cul-
tivation, not a few cultivators deprecate their
exclusive employment, and rely now very largely
on chemical manures as equivalents that are, while
more cleanly to use, capable of beiog employed with
an effect almost unerring in its certainty. But
when one in some degree realises the extent to
which artificials now enter into the economy of
high-class farming, we cannot but assume their use
in horticulture to be as yet in its infancy, though
no doubt the infant is marked by the possession of
not a little vigour, and exhibits a tendency to shoot
up rapidly ; while, if we judge from the number of
proprietary foods already in the market, no fear
need be experienced that the child will suffer from
want of nourishment.

That this subject may be treated of briefly, aud
yet in a manner intelligible to the many who have
bestowed upon it only a cursory attention, it is, I
think, not at all requisite to plunge into text-book
details as to plant requirements, and the means of
meeting them. Better, perhaps, to emphasise some
few points, the practical importance of which can-
not be overlooked. And, first of all, we may dispose
of proprietary manures, all of which are naturally
expensive to purchase, and judging of the value of
materials, we cannot help thinking they are dear at
the money. Farmers' clubs protect their members
both as to price-values and quality of materials.
The gardener has no protection beyond the honesty
of the vendor. Some compositions, if expensive,
are, however, made up of reliable constituents, and
in such cases the difference in price where only a
few hundredweights are used annually is really of
slight importance. The case, however, stands on a
different footing when slaughter-house refuse, clean-
ings of pigeon-cotes, or the remains of worn-out
hacks, are worked up into manures, and sold at
high figures. I have had examples of these through
my hands that were distinctly dangerous to plants
to apply. Tho use of au efficient general manure,
composed of chemical component parts, is, on the
other hand, rather to be approved than too lightly
condemned. They are especially useful for mixing
with composts, and it is mainly for this reasou that
I appreciate certain mixtures.

Turning to simple chemical materials available
for plant foods, it is, I venture to say, unnecessary
to employ many. Prepared composts, which have
fibrous turf as a base, are always more or less
fertilo, and wheu dry animal excrements enter into
their composition, they are rendered still more
fertile, and experience shows the additional food
required to be of a very simple nature. The writer
lately examined several long glass structures filled
with show Pelargoniums, with the flower trusses in
various stages of development, some fully expanded,
others yet in the bud. They were all good stuff,
such as any gardener would have been proud to
produce, yet their rooting medium was confined to
the soil in pots 4 inches in diameter. The compost
employed was loam aud horse-droppings, and the
only manurial help the plants had received were
occasional dressings of nitrate of soda. I have
myself applied lime-water to certain plants, and
have also used as a surface-dressing sulphate of
iron, but the results were, so far as could be seen,
nil. Potash iu its various forms I have dispensed
with year3 ago, and the only materials I find it

Jdne 10, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

387

necessary to apply, are nitrates and phosphates.
Of the former, I personally prefer sulphate of
ammonia to nitrate of soda. A good superphosphate
for some things, or slag Hour, supplies the latter ;
but the almost perfect feeding qualities possessed
by properly constituted composts, should never be
lost sight of. R. P. B.

(To bt1 continued*)

An Unfounded Report.— A report having
been circulated that Mr. Maycock was leaving
Luton Hoo Gardens, Major S. John Taylor,
acting for Laiiy de Falbe, begs to inform us that
there is not at present, nor likely to occur, a
vacancy for Head-gardener at Luton Hoo. June 3.

[The terra "accumulated temperature indicates the aggregate
amount, as wellas the duration, of degrees of temperature
above or below 42" Fahr. for the period named ; and this
combined result is expressed in Day-degree* — a "Day-
degree " signifying 1° continued for twenty-four hours, or
any other number of degrees for an inversely proportional
number ofhours.]

Tempekatore.

Kaenfall.

Bright
Sun.

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Accumulated.

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88

45

" Rainfall. — Slight rain occurred in Scotland and extreme
'Ireland, N.,' during the latter part of the week, but with
this exception the week was quite rainless.

"The bright sunshine was extremely abundant, especially
over England. The percentage of the possible duration
ranged from 88 in the 'Channel Islands,' 85 in 'England, 8.
and S.W.," and 88 in ' England, E.,' to 67 in ' Ireland, K., 54
in Scotland, E.,' and to 35 in 'Scotland, X." Tin' highest
percentages recorded at any individual stations, were 'JO at
Watergate (Emswor th), 89 at Jersey, and 88 at several southern
and south-western coast stations."

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 Loudon, S.
Principal Grazing, dc, Districts — 0, Scotland, W. ;
7, England, N.W. ; 8, England, S.W. ; 9, Ireland, N. ;
10, Ireland, S. ; *Chauuel Islands.

THE PAST WEEK.

Thk following summary record of the weather throughout
the British Islands for the week ending June 3, is
furnished from the Meteorological Office : —

"The urnthcr during this week was extremely line and
bright over the greater part of the Kingdom, but slight rain
was experienced late in the week in most parts of Scotland,
accompanied by thunder at a few of the extreme northern
stations.

" The temperature, Which was very low at the commencement
of the period, subsequently rose quickly and became high, so
that the average values for the week exceeded tin- mean in all
districts except 'England, E.,' and the * Midland Counties.1
The highest of the maxima were registered) as a rule, either
on Thursday or Friday ; they ranged from 83° in ' England, S.
(in London), to 73° in 'Ireland, S.,' and to 72° in 'Scotland,'
W.' The lowest of the minima occurred on May '2*;, when the
sheltered thermometer fell to 29° in ' Scotland, E.,' 30° in the
' Midland Counties,' 31° in ' England, N.W.,' and to 32° over
'England, N.E., E., and S.W.,' and also in 'Scotland, N.'
Elsewhere, the lowest readings ranged from SSMn ' Ireland, N.,
to 41 in the 'Channel Islands.' The extreme range of tem-
perature during this week was thus unusually large, amounting
to 48° at Loughborough, and to more than 40° at nearly all
the other inland English stations, as well as at Fort
Augustus.

Markets.

CO VENT GARDEN, JUNE 8.

[We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us 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 the week preceding
the date of our report. The prices depend upon the
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.1

Apples, Tasmanian
andVictorian,
R i b s tons,
Pear mains,
New York
Pippin, Stur-
mer, Prince
Bisruarck.&c.,
per ease

Apricots, box vari-
ous numbers ...

Bananas, per bunch

Cherries, sieve

— peck

— box

Figs, per dozen ..
Gooseberries, sieve
Grapes, English,

Haniburgl^A.,

per lb

B., per lb....

— Belgian, per lb.,
new

Fruit.— Average Wholesale Prices.
s. d. s. d.

Vegetables. — Average Wholesale Prices.

Artichokes, Globe,
per doz.

— Jerusalem, per
sieve

Asparagus, Sprue

— Eng., natural,
per bundle

— Various others
Beans, E ngl ish,

l 'wo is, per Lb.

Longpods, in

sieves

— Dwarfs, Chan-
nel Islands, lb.

Beetroots, per doz.

— bushel

Broccoli, dozen ...

— crates

Cabbage, tally

— per bushel

— dozen

Carrots, new French ,

per bunch
t lauliQower, p. doz.
Celery, new, per

bundle
Cress, doz. punnets
Cucumbers, per

doien

Endive, French, per

dozen ..
Garlic, per lb.
Horseradish, new

English, bundle

— — loose per
doz., fine

— foreign, per
bundle..

Leeks, per dozen

bunches
Lettuce, Cos, dozen

— Cabbage, dozen

— English, Cos,
per score

s. d. s. d.

2 0-20

1 r> —

04-CG;

10-26
0 6- 1 0

10-12

6 0- S 0

0 s- 0 9
10 —

3 0 —

2 6 —
10 0-14 0

5 0- 6 a
16-19
10-13

0 6-09

3 6-80

16 -
16 -

2 0-3 6

2 6-30

0 3 —

2 0 2 6

1 0 —
10 -

1 6- 2 0

2 0-30

1 3- 1 9

2 0 —

Miut, natural, per
dozeu bunches,
according to
size of bunches

Mushrooms, house,
per lb

Onions, Egyptian,
cwt. bag ...

— new, bunches.
Parsley, doz. bun.

— sieve

Peas, Channel Is-
lands, Frame
Telephone, lb.

— English, bushel

— French fiats ...
Potatos, Bruce, Up-

to - Date, &c,
per ton

s. d. s. d.

4 0-00

S fl- 4 6

2 0-30

3 0 —

1 0 —

0 10 —

7 fl SO

4 0-

40 0-100 0

new Jersey Kid
neys, perewt. n 0- 9 0
Teneriffe.cwt. 9 0-12 0

— Lisbon, per box 3 0-40
Radishes, round,

breakfast, per

dozen bunches 10-10

Rhubarb natural,

per dozen ... 10-26

Salad, small, pun-
nets, per dozen 13 —

Shallots, new, doz.

bunches ... 16 —

Spinach, Engl ish,

per bushel ... 10-16

T o m a t o s, new

English, per lb. 0 5£-0 0j

— Channel Islands,

p. lb 0 5-00

— Canary Islands,

boxes 3 0 —

Turnips, new

French, bunch 0 4-08
Watercress, p. doz.

bunches ... 0 4-06

Cut Flowers, &c— Average Wholesale Prices.

Anemones, dozen

bunches

Arum Lilies, dozen

blooms

Asparagus "Fern,"

bunch

Azalea, white, 12

bunches

Azalea mollis, per

dozen bunches ...
Bouvardias, per bun.
Carnations, per doz.

blooms

Cornflowers, dozen

bunches

Daffodils, per dozen

bunches

Eucharis, perdozec
Gardenias, per doz.
I ris, doz bunches...
Lilium lougirlorum,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

dozen bunches ...
Mignonette,dz.bun.

s. d. s. d.

2 0-30
2 0-30

6 0-90
0 4-06

16-30

2 0-30

2 6-40
2 0-30
10-30
0 0-90

4 0-60

4 0-12 0
2 0-30

Marguerites, p. doz.

bunches

Maidenhair Fern,

per doz. bunches
Narcissus, White,

dozen bunches ...
Orchids, per dozen

blooms

IVonies, doz. bun.
Pelargoniums, doz.

bunches

— scarlet, doz. bun.
Roses (indoor), per

dozen

— Pink, per dozeu

— Tea, white, per
dozen

— Perle, per doz.

— Safrano, p. doz.
Smilax, per bunch
Spiraea, doz. bun....
Stock, doz. bunches
Sweet Teas, dozen

bunches

Tuberoses, 12 blins.

s. d, s. d-
3 0-40

4 0-60

16-20

6 0-12 0
6 0-12 0

4 0-60
6 0-80

16-20
4 0-60

2 0-30
10-20
16-20

3 0-50

4 0-00
2 0-80

6 0-
0 S-

S 0
1 0

Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Prices.

Adiantums, p. doz. 5
Aspidistras, p. doz. 18

— specimen, each 5
Bouvardias, p. doz. is
Calceolaria, p. doz. 5
Euonymus, various,

per dozen
Ferns, in variety,
per dozen

— small, per 100 .
Ficus elastica, each
Foliage plants, var.,

each

d. s. d.
0-7 0
0-36 0
0-10 0
0-42 0
0-9 0

6 0-18 0

0-12 0
0-6 0
0-5 0

s. d. s. d.
Fuchsias, perdozen fl 0-10 0
Hydrangeas, p. doz. 6 0-10 0

— paniculate, doz. 18 0-24 0
Lycopodiums, doz. 3 0-40
Marguerite Daisy,

per dozen „, 6 0-80

Mignonette, p. doz. 4 0- S 0
Palms, various, ea. 1 0-15 0

— specimens, ea. 21 0-63 0
Pelargoniums, var., 6 0 10 0

— Zonals, per doz 6 0-80
Roses, per dozen ... flu- '.i 0
Spiraeas, per dozen 4 0-00

9 0-14 0

1 fl- 2 0
5 6-10 0
11 0-12 0

0 6-80

1 i; —

4 0-70
4 0-50

1 9- 2 fl
10-18

s. d. s. d.

Grapes, Channel
Islands Ham-
burghs, per lb, 13-20

— Muscats, A., p.

lb 4 0-50

B., per lb... 2 0-20

Lemons, per case... 10 0-3 i 0
Lychees, Chinese,

packet, 1 lb. ... 13-14
Melons, each . . 3 6-46
Oranges, Murcia,

cases of 150 or

2> 0 10 fl —

— Valencia, &c. ... 16 0-18 0
Peaches, A., per

dozen 12 0-18 0

— B , per doz. ... 4 0- s 0
Pines, St. Michaels,

each ... . .. 3 fl- fl 0

Strawberries, p. lb. 5 0-70

— Seconds .. 2 0- 2 S

— French, in bas-
kets,about4lb. 2 6-50

0 9-10

P< iTATUS.

Bruce, Main Crop, Up-to-Date, &c, 40s. to 80s.; Dunbar
Main Crop, 100s. Jersey new, 8«. to 9s. per cwt; Canary,
10s to 13s. ; Cherbourg and si. Malo, 7*. to 7s. 6tf. ; Lisbon,
per box, 3& fid. to 4s. John Lath, 32 and 34, Wellington
Street, Coveni Garden.

Remarks. — Old Potatos in litt le request, only a few ofllie
best commanding a ?alo. New Jersey Potatos are coming in
fast. Asparagus plentiful in supply, and low in price. Cauli-
flowers, both foreign ami English, also Turnips, are now

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES.

Glasgow: June 7.— The following are the averages of the
prices recorded since our last report : — Oranges, Orf. to
Is. per dozen; Grapes, home, -2s. to 4s. 6d. per lb.; do.
foreign, 6d. do. ; Tomatos, Guernsey, id. to Sd. per lb. ;
do., Scotch, .V. to Sd. do. ; Cabbages, Spring, 7<l. to Qd.
per dozen; Cauliflowers, Edinburgh, 2s. id. do.; Herbs,
assorted, Id. to 2d. per bunch ; Mint, green, 6d. do. ; Onions,
is. '"/. to 5s. per cwt.; Parsley, ■'..<. per stone ; Carrots,
round, new, Is. per bunch, and 6s. per cwt.; Cucum-
bers, id. to 5</. each ; Lettuces, round, Is. 3d. to
Is- 6U per dozen ; do., Cjs, 4s. to 5s. dozen ;
Radishes, long, English, Is. (W. per dozen bunches; Horse-
radish, Is. 6(2. to 2s. per bundle; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. "d.
per lb. ; Beetroots, 6-i. to Id. per dozen ; Mustard and
Cress, 3d. per punnet ; Spinach, 2s. to 4s. per stone ; Rhubarb,
2s. 6d. to 3s. Qd. per cwt ; Broccoli, Irish, 2s. to 2s. 6</. per
dozen; Turnips, French, white, Is. to Is. 3d. per bunch.

Liverpool: June 7. — Wholesale Vegetable Market. —
Potatos, per cwt., Jersey, Ss. to 9s. ; Main Crop, 3s. id. to
3s. dd. ; Bruce, 2s. S</. to 3s. 4</. ; Parsley, 0<t. to Sd. per
dozen bunches ; Onions, foreign, 4s. to5s. per cwt. ; Lettuces,
Gd. to IQd. per dozen ; Cucumbers, Is. Sd. to 3s. per doz< n ;
Cauliflowers, Is. bo 2s. 3d. do.; Cabbages, ix/. to Is. do.
St. John's.— Potatos, Is. to Is. 4(/. per peck ; do., new, 2d. to6d.
per lb. ; Grapes, home, 2s. to 3s. do.; Pines, English, 4*.
to 6s. each; Strawberries, Gd. to 5s. per lb. ; Goose-
berries, 3d. to 4'/. per lb. ; Peas, 4d. per lb. ; Cherries,
6d. to Is. per lb. ; Cob Nuts, 6d. to Sd. do.; Apricots,
Is. per dozen ; Asparagus, 2s. to 4s. per 100 ; do., Is. Gd. to 3-.
per bundle; Cucumbers, 3d. to 4d. each; Mushrooms, Is. '2d.
per pound and basket. Birkenhead.— Potatos, Is. to Is. 2d.
per peck ; do., new, Id. to 2d. per lb. ; Peas, 4d. to fl''. do. ;
Asparagus, Is. 6d. to 3s. per 100; Cucumbers, 2d. to 6d. each
Strawberries, 8d. to Is. per lb. ; Cherries, Sd. to Hid. do.
Apricots, Is. per dozen; Goos -berries, id. per lb. ; Grapes
home, 3s. to 4s. do. ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. 4d. do.

SEEDS.

London : June 7.— Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, Seed Mer-
chants, of Great Maze Pond, Borough, Loudon, S.E., report
u thin attendance on todays seed market, with but few
transactions passing. Clover seed is now naturally quite a dead
letter. For Alsykc Clove, iheic is some little -speculative inquiry
Spring Tares meet a good sale, but supplies are very Dearly
exhausted. Full prices are asked for Mustard and Rapeseed,
Canary seed is strong at the recent in terestingadvance; holders
in view of the universally bad crop prospects, and a further
consequent rise in valuesexpectedthtreop, refuse to let go their
stocks, which, by the way, prove quite moderate, at the
present, still comparatively low rates ruling. Hempseed
continues scare,- and dear. The Linseed market is steady.
There is no change this week in either Peas or Haricot Beans.

CORN.

Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the
week ending June. ::, and for the corresponding period of
1898, together with the difference in the quotations. These
figures are based on the Oflicial Weekly Return ; —

Description.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

Wheat

8. d.

4U 3

s. d.

25 4

s. rf.
- 20 11

Barley

26 10

24 4

- 2 G

Oats

21 0

IS 1

- 2 11

388

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Junk 10, 1899.

Mr

"orrtepondenU

A Stiff Clay Soil: //. C. B. Digging or plough-
ing the land, ami then using the subsoil plough
for looseniug the soil below the depth reached by
the first ploughing or digging ; or trenching two
spits deep, but leaving the top spit for two or
three years at the surface, would ameliorate its
condition considerably. But it will also require
manuring, and be deficient probably in humus ;
the decayed organic remains of vegetation which,
when exposed to the air, affords a variety of
plant foods. It will suffice the first year to plough
or dig iu quick-lime, strawy manure, tine coal-
ashes, sand, garden rubbish — anything, indeed,
that will maintain the soil in a porous condition,
and on decaying provide food for plants. It
would he advisable to have average samples, or
sample, of the soil analysed, so as to obtain a
knowledge of its composition, and the manures
most required. A dressing of sulphate of am-
monia 200 lb., dissolved bone-black 1000 lb.,
muriate of potash about 300 lb. and bone-meal
1 cwt., may be applied per acre, as a top-dressing,
and hoed into the soil. This will in no case be a
waste of money. As the annual digging or
ploughing is carried out, a little of the subsoil
may be brought to the surface. Hitherto, the
manures you have applied have been of little
avail, owing to the impervious state of the subsoil.

Books: H. A. Davidson. The Handy Bool: of
Bees, by A. Pettigrew (Blackwood & Sons, Edin-
burgh and London). There have beeu several
editions of this useful manual. Another good
one is Mr. T. W. Cowan's -Sees and their Manage-
ment, published by Houlston & Sons, Paternoster
Square, London, E.C.—T. H. W. I. There is
no work known to us that treats only of the
propagation of forest trees. This kind of infor-
mation is usually embodied in works on Forestry,
such, for example, as those of Jas. Brown, Dr.
Schlick, J. C. Brown, C. Y. Michie, A. D.
Webster, and Brown and Nisbet.

Celosia Diseased : N. H. P. The cause of
trouble is a fungus, but the supply of material
and its coudition on arrival render exact identi-
fication hazardous. Try the usual measures
against greenhouse fungi — more air, less moisture.
Also keep the foliage fairly dry by not wetting
it every time the plants are watered. Spraying
with a fungicide would be beneficial, but we
cannot give exact details, because as yet we have
not seeu results of reliable experiments. In any
case, with such delicate foliage as this plant has,
only very dilute solutions can be used — say
potassium sulphide one-third of an ounce to each
gallon of water, or a weak Bordeaux Mixture.

Correction : Temple Show. — Owing to a typo-
graphical error Messrs. Sutton & Son's baskets of
Peas were given as being four in number, instead
of forty. Be Cactus - flowered Pelargonium,
tig. 128, of the issue of June 3, the exhibitor's
name should have beeu Towell, not Powell ; and
that of die exhibitors' of Astilbes should have
been Gt. Van Waveren and Kruijff, instead of
M. Van Waveren.

Cucumber Plants going off at the Ground-
level : Key. There is no disease, but the stems
have become woody iu appearance, and no eel-
worms existed on the roots. We should attri-
bute the mishap to the use of chemical or very
strong farmyard or other manures applied to tho
soil close to or touching the stems of the plants.

Cui imber-culture : Market. We would rather
recommend fish-manure, or a so-called guano, or
superphosphate of lime, in preference to nitrate
of soda ; and it would be wise to change the kind
of manure from time to time. House-sewage,
well diluted ; soapsuds, 'or horse, cow, and sheep's-
dung, put into a cask, aud allowed to ferment for
a time, form good aids to Cucumber cultivation,
and they have the merit of costing but little.

Diseased Leaf of an Orchid: W. J. K.
Although there may be fungoid growth on tho
leaves of tho Dendrobium sent, the appearance
is common in Orchids grown in an unsuitable
temperature, or kept continually in much heat.
After the new growths are completed, afford the
plants a long rest iu a c66l, airy house, keeping

them dry, and probably theleav es will come right
next season.

Gumming in Cucumbers: J/«rfc(.-It may be
due to the presence of eel-worms at the root.
Can you kindly send some pieces of the roots and
gummed-fruits ?

Mangold Wurzel Seed : W. T. J. Late iu the
autumn when the roots are of full size, select the
finest of the variety of which seed is desired,
and having taken them up intact, cut off the
leaves about 4 inches from the root ; then store
them in a bank of sandy soil, the tops outwards,
so leaving them till the spring, but taking care
that the frost does not injure them. A cool
cellar or root-store on the N. side of a wall are
suitable places. When the roots are planted iu
the end of March, select an open situation shel-
tered from the wind, planting the roots 2 feet
apart, and not deeper in the soil than they grew
the previous year ; make the soil firm round
about them, and afford water once if the soil be
dry at time of planting. If a plant throws a
great number of flower - shoots, some small
amount of thinning-out maybe desirable; and
when the flower-stalks are 1-i foot high, they
should be secured to stout sticks, 5 feet high at
the least ; and be secured with other ties as they
continue to lengthen. The seed-bearing stalks,
when it is seen that the seed is fully matured, should
be cut low down, and be hung iu bunches of
half-a-dozen in a dry shed, to be thrashed out
and cleaned in the winter months. If more
than one variety is saved, the plants should bo
placed half a mile apart, aud it would be well for
the cultivator to ascertain if any of his neighbours
are saving seed, and act accordingly.

Manures for Fruit-trees : H. C. B. We give
the following recipes taken from W. Semper's
Manures, and How to Use them. To make
1000 lb. : take nitrate of soda 250 lb., ground
bones 200 lb., bone black superphosphate 250 lb.,
muriate of potash 300 lb. Apply 500 lb. per
acre. Another, ground bones, 300 lb. ; bone
black super-phosphate, 300 lb. ; muriate of pot-
ash, 400 lb. ; apply 350 lb. per acre. Per acre
for all kinds of fruit-trees : — Sulphate of am-
monia, 50 lb. ; sulphate of magnesia, 25 lb. ;
muriate of potash, 1001b. ; Dissolved bone-black,
425 lb.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — B. D. 1 , Pyrus torminalis ;
2, P. Aria. — />. N. C. 1, Mespilus germanica ;

2, Saxifraga grauulata, double-flowered : thanks
for the buttonhole ! — W. T. Scilla peruviana. —
H. A. B. 1, Hyacinthus comosus ; 2, Pernettya
mucrouata. — J. K. Cytisus Adami, a supposed
graft hybrid between C. Laburnum aud C. pur-
pureus. — G. M. K. Quercus cerris, the Turkey
Oak. — F. K. 1, Probably Dendrobium fimbria-
turn; 3, Dendrobium aggregatum ; 6, Nephro-
lepis tuherosa ; 7, Anthurium Scherzerianum.
The two Begonias and Caladium had lost their
colour ; they are garden forms, difficult to name
even from good specimens. — R. N. H. Maxil-
laria tenuifolia. — A. I, Dendrobium Parishi ; 2and

3, Dendrobium Bensonia?. — M. It. 1, Crata'gus
coccinea : 2, next week ; 3, Scilla peruviana ;

4, Lychnis dioica, double -flowered ; 5, Anthe-
ricum liliastrum ; 6, Veronica Teucrium.

Pelargoniums Diseased: A. S. W. That a
fungus has established itself iu the cuttiugs is
evident. Cuttings of any kind are liable to
attack by fungi unless carefully handled. The
fact that your worst batch travelled and got
"heated," poiuts to that time as the period of
attack. Any living parts of plants packed for
transit are liable to develop moulds or other
fungi on the way ; we constantly find this with
plants sent here for advice. If cuttings are left
implanted for any time, it is always a good pre-
caution to remove about half-au-inch of the cut-
end with a clean sharp knife before planting. In
order to avoid infection from the soil, it should
be clean, fresh, well-drained, and not previously
used for striking cuttings. The well-known 1 iss
of Pelargonium cuttings when kept too moist, is
chiefly due to fungi. In the preseut case,
nothing can be done to save the plants badly
diseased ; the better ones might benelil by
repotting.

Rq.sk : H. P. We cannot undertake to name
varieties of Roses. Take it to some extensive
growef of these plants.

Roses : W. B. You are correct in supposing the
pest to be kuown as Orange-fungus, and seldom
have we seen a better specimen. As this fungus
is one of those that vegetate in the leaves and
stems of its host, the cultivator's chance of
wholly ridding his trees of the pest is not a good
one. At the present date of the season, all you
can do is to try and destroy every bit of Orange-
fungus (now fruiting) possible, by spraying with
Bordeaux Mixture or other fungicides. If the
plants are badly infested, it will be well during
winter to give the soil a good dressing with
quick-lime, with a view to killing the resting-
spores ; and for the same purpose, the Rose-
plants may be painted with a mixture of quick-
lime and soot, mixed to the consistency of paint,
in a pailful of which add half-a-pound of subli-
mated sulphur and a small handful of coarse salt.
When pruning the trees, take care that all
shoots that are cut off are burned directly after-
wards. This fungus was figured and described
with much detail in the Gardeners' Chronicle,
July 17, 1886, pp. 76, 77.

Spir.s:as Diseased : A. S. W. The foliage is
attacked by a form of Botrytis, a group of fungi
causing well-known diseases on Tulip, Onion,
Lily, and Clover. The disease is not uncommon
when Spiraeas are kept indoors in a moist atmo-
sphere. We have checked it by simply placing
the plants out of doors. To prevent its appear-
ance in the house, the plants should be sprayed
before the leaves uufold, and onwards every two
or three weeks till near flowering time. Almost
any spraying mixture will do, such as soapy-
water, or sulphur in water ; better still, Bor-
deaux Mixture, potassium sulphide, or Straw-
sonite.

Tomatos Diseased : H. S. Another case of the
obscure "sleepy disease." See reply to "C. J.,"
in a recent issue. You have, however, dropped
a very valuable hint iu treatment in saying, "the
seedlings left in the seed-pots remain healthy,
while those repotted decay off within a week or
ten days." The suggestion here is self-evident.

To render a sticky, hard Soil Friable :
Puzzled. Let the following substances be incor-
porated with the staple whenever there is
occasion to dig it : Fine coal-ashes (the sittings
of the ash-pit), road grit (scrapings), the trim-
mings of the roadsides if you are living in the
'rural districts, rough peat, ditch semirings, fine
ballast (burnt clay), quick-lime at the winter
digging, coarse garden rubbish put into the
bottom of the trenches when the land is double-
dug, and not disturbing it for three years. The
land will in time get much altered in texture.
Never let the hard crust that forms after rain,
&c, remain intact, but break it up with the
hoe.

Watering a Suburban Garden: Puzzled. The
better time is the evening, when evaporation is
the least ; and although the water from the main
is comparatively cold, its temperature is raised
in its passage through the suu-heated soil, and
no harm is done. If an application of water be
thorough, as it should be, and not a mere dribble,
once a week, even in suuny weather, will suffice.
Always stir the soil with a Dutch-hoe, or a hand-
fork, a day or two after affording water, so aa
the better to allow air to enter the soil and
reach the roots. Of course, if the soil is light or
gravelly, much watering impoverishes it rapidly,
aud something ought to be done to furnish plant-
food thus carried to lower depths than the roots
of flowering plants reach to. This may be done
by affording occasionally liquid-manure, or dress-
ing of nitrate of soda, kainit as meal, potash, &c.

Communications Received. — Sixteen Years a Gardener.
R. E. Brain.— R. M.— J. D. G.-E. T.— A. D. N.— W. G. S.
— Gt. Van Waveren and Kruijff.— W. M. W.— W. T. T.—
I C— F. A. W.— Burlington, U.S A.— A. B., Jersey.— Pr.
Hoisholt.-E. M.-C. S.-W\ P.— F. A. W.-E. W. B.-
R. L. C.-G. H. M.— J. K. A.-A. H. P.— E. W. B.—
W. M. W. -F. A. \V.— W. S.— J. D. G.— R. L. C— N. H. P.
_A — S. w.— G. H.— X. Y Z.— Anxious. — Jim. Davics,
Sir C. I.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
H. C— Dr. W.—J. B.— M. Froebel, Zurich.

IMPORTANT TO ADVERTISERS. - The Publisher has
the satin/action of announcing tliai the cwculauon of the
" Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the red/action in the
price of the paper,

MORE THAN DOUBLED.

Advertisers arc reminded that the " Chronicle ' circulates among
Country Gentlemen, and all Classes oe Gardeners
and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a spcciallij large
Foreign ant) Colmjial Circulation «rf<J thH it is
p'ttmVtil M MfenMc ill all th* jmHUffla JftwieJ.

June 17, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRO NI CL E.

389

THE

No. 651.- SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 1899.

MENTMOEE.

THE domain of Mentmore strikes the beholder
as being magnificent on a still June
evening as he passes through it from the
railway station at Cheddington. This little
station is of importance ■ as being the point
whence starts the branch line to Aylesbury, not
faraway; and as one travels by this branch a
tine view is obtained of Mentmore and its park,
while a glimpse can be caught of Waddesdon
on the western hill. On leaving the village by
road the visitor passes through many acres of
fruit-orchards, mainly planted with Plums, the
Prune variety largely preponderating, fringed
here and there with lines of Walnut-trees, flushed
with the bronzy-red of their early foliage. .
Then comes the avenue of Sequoia gigantea,
shortly called the Wellingtonia Avenue,
wherein it is seen the examples were planted in
threes, in the form of a triangle, their sharp
formal outlines standing out in marked con-
trasts with the noble clumps of evergreen and
deciduous tree and shrub which alternate, and
which were planned and planted by the late
Mr. James Veitch. One could almost desire,
fi >r the sake of more striking effect and harmony,
the English ( )ak, which appears to do well on
the Mentmore estate, had taken the place of
the Californian trees, some of which appear to
be scarcely happy.

Then follows the Horse- Chestnut Avenue,
the specimens forming which are now approach-
ing maturity : there are two lines of trees on
either side, each at an equal distance apart from
its fellow ; they are now generally in glorious
bloom, and show seminal differences in the
shape of outline, in the time of flowering, in
the size of the spikes of bloom, in their tiori-
ferousness, in the differences of habit. But
they are all doing well, and twenty years hence,
when in all probability they will have matured,
it will, indeed, be a noble avenue ; and this is a
public road, along which anyone can walk or
drive, kept in excellent condition by Mr. Smith
at the expense of Lord Rosebery, whose property
lines each side of it.

On emerging from the Chestnut Avenue,
the home grounds of Mentmore are reached.
It is in them one catches the mighty inspira-
tions of the open air and green fields, of tree
and valley, as the details of the landscape
alternate by the way. The early evening is,
perhaps, the best time at which to see Ment-
more in all its beauty, when the softening
sunlight falls over- the land. What a
change from London's city, with its bustle
and struggle of commercial life, to the cool
lawn and shrubberies, the shady roadway
and singing birds. "The sunlight poured its
unclouded beauty on every subject that one
could see. The exquisite freshness of the air
made the mere act of living and breathing a
luxury." And then the leading features of

the place — the palatial mansion ; its appro-
priate surroundings ; the broad, sweeping
approaches to it ; and the perfectly - kept
grounds — all imparted to the scene a sense
of enchantment. Mr. Smith, who has had
charge of Mentmore over twenty years, can
look upon many subjects he planted quite
young that have meanwhile grown into stately
specimens, and improvements which have
greatly enhanced the beauty and the value of
the estate. Planting-out is being done on the
terraces to secure late summer and autumn
displays. Nesfield's Italian garden, as good an
example of this style as can be found in the
country, will soon be furnished. Among flower-
ing shrubs, the Persian Lilacs are superb ; and
hybrid Rhododendrons in large clumps are
gay with vari-coloured blossoms. Those who
wish to see magnificent specimens of Conifers
will find them at Mentmore ; there are de-
lightful Rose-gardens, and at every point some-
thing to arrest attention and delight the eye.
What order everywhere ! and yet the keeping
of Mentmore must involve an immense amount
of labour.

In the short time I could remain, an inspection
of the houses in detail was impossible. A
hurried walk through the vineries enabled one
to note great promise. In the Pine-pits were
splendid fruits. Plant-houses were gay ; the
London demand necessitates great supplies.
The kitchen garden has been extended, and it
occupies a great extent of slope, falling away
towards Cheddington station.

A large extent of new buildings is being
erected, new bothies, &c, with modern conve-
niences, stables, &c. ; the bricks and other
materials manufactured on the estate.

And then the picturesque village, not sur-
rounding the estate, as Downing said it should,
but within easy reach of the mansion, and sur-
rounded by the grounds. It has a well-to-do
aspect ; there are no slums to be found here,
but roomy cottages standing in pleasant
gardens. The drive from Mentmore to
Leighton was delightful, taken in the cool of
the evening, just as the great red sun was
setting in the fiery west, along roads over-
arched by the green foliage of the trees, aim' >st
to the confines of the Bedfordshire town. E. D.

Kew and elsewhere for some years past, but the
flowers from Newry are the first I have seen.
Possibly it may, like the Mountain Ash, be
beautiful as a fruiting tree, but for its flowers
alone it is evidently well worth growing. The
Thianschan Mountains, from which this plant
derives its name, are on the north-west confiues of
the Chinese Empire.

Rhododendron decorum.
The flowering of yet another of the new Chinese
Rhododendrons has to be recorded. During
the first week of June this species opened its
flowers for the first time at Kew, and, so far as I
am aware, in Europe. The Kew plants were
obtained from the Jardin des Plantes at Paris in
1889, which establishment was, no doubt, indebted
for them to the Abbe Delavay, who originally
found the species in Yunnan. It is very closely
allied to R. Fortunei, so closely, indeed, that it can
scarcely be more than a geographical form of that
species. The flowers are the same in colour,
fragrance, and size, and, what points to their
affinity still more, is that both have seven segments
to the corolla. The only differences at present
noted are the much more glandular peduncles of
R. Fortunei, and the larger and more distinctly-
lobed calyx of R. decorum. The leaves of the latter
are also thicker and more rigid than in Fortune's
species. In habit and in hardiness it is inferior,
and unlike several other Chinese species recently
mentioned in these columns, it does not promise to
be of much value iu our gardens here. R. Fortunei
has all its good qualities and others beside. Still,
in view of the iuterest which now attaches to the
flora of Western and Central China, it may be of
interest to put its flrst flowering on record. W. J.
Bean,

New or Noteworthy Plants,

PYRUS THIANSCHANICA.
This new Pyrus belongs to the Ancuparia (or
Mountain Ash) group, and judging by specimens
from Mr. Smith's nursery at Newry, where the
species has lately flowered, it promises to be a
charming acquisition. There are specimens iu the
Kew herbarium collected by Przewalski in 1872,
but the plant itself appears to have reached cul-
tivation by way of the St. Petersburg Botanic
Garden about ten years ago. It is described as a
shrub or low tree, from 9 feet to 20 feet high, and
the young plants in cultivation in this country
promise to be dwarf and compact iu habit. Like
its allies, the Mountain Ash and the Service Tree,
it has piunate leaves ; they consist of nine to
seventeen leaflets, which are If inch to 2 inches
long, perfectly glabrous, dark and rather glossy
green, linear-oblong and toothed. The flowers in
Mr. Smith's specimens are in terminal corymbose
racemes, 3 inches to 4 inches across, the individual
flower J inch to j inch in diameter, with five round,
cupped petals of the purest white. The calyx is
small and green, its broad shallow lobes having
usually a short mucronate tip. The fruits are in
corymbose clusters, each one being round and about
\ inch across. The species has been cultivated at

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

L.ELIA PURPURATA var. ANNIE LOUISK.
With regard to this plant, which received a
First-class Certificate at the Temple Show, Thos.
Statter, Esq., of Whitefield, Manchester, writes : —
"I believe it was explained by Mr. Cypher at the
Temple Show, who was the original owner, that
the certificated plant of L. purpurata Annie
Louise was the same variety as that shown by me
as L. purpurata Statteriana. The question arises,
what is this variety in future to be styled, as
there are still two more portions of the original
plant, one with Mr. Schofield, the exhibitor of the
certificated plant referred to, and the other with
Mrs. Briggs Bury, at Accrington? I hold that
'Statteriana' is the right name, because I exhibited
my plant at Manchester Botanical Gardens in 1S97
and 1898, and on a later date under that name ;
andl received a First-class Certificate at Manchester
under that name, L. p. Statteriana."

We fear that there are many similar cases,
although examination of the two plants referred to
at the show failed to prove conclusively that they
were the same, Mr. Statter's flower being smaller
and not so finely developed as Mr. Schofield's.
At the show, another complication arose from the
suggestion that L. p. Mrs. R. I. Measures, an
inflorescence of which was present for comparison,
was also the same as L. p. Annie Louise, and
certainly its well developed flowers seemed nearer
than those of Mr. Statter's plant. All three
might have been from the same stock (though Mr.
Measures' plant was taken from au independent
specimen), and cultivation has made the difference.
If purchasers would honestly retain the names
under which plants were bought, and vendors
would faithfully sell all the parts of the same
specimen under the same name given, before the
plants were distributed, such confusion would be
materially diminished. We fear that complications
of the kind are more often intentional than acci-
dental. In the face of the present difficulty, it
will be better to adhere to the name given at the
Temple show.

390

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[Jmns IT, 1S99.

Orchids at Elmwood.
J. Wilson Potter, Esq., an Orchid amateur
resident at Croydon, has had much experience
as an orchidist, and has tasted the delights of
success in their culture, as also the reverse, when
some species have been intractable. This intracta-
bility is generally due to the unsuitability of the
houses, or to something in the methods of cultiva-
tion pursued. The proof that this is the case is
afforded by the improvement in the collection
since its removal to Mr. Potter's new residence,
and especially since they have been under Mr.
Young's care.

The old set of houses at Elmwood have been
added to by the erection of a rather high, long,
three-quarter-span range, fitted with appliances
likely to benefit the plants grown in it. Rain-
water tanks are provided, shading-blinds are carried
well above the glass, and the moist evaporation from
an unpaved floor helps to make cool, growing con-
ditions even in very hot weather. The large
number of Odontoglossum crispum, many of them
as yet undowered, promise well for the future.
Among the 0. Pescatorei is the certificated plant
of 0. P. Sligachan variety, which, after flowering
so beautifully as it did when shown, became ob-
stinate, and did not grow satisfactorily until lately,
when it again made two leading bulbs. Odonto-
glossum Halli is well represented, one of the
forms of it being the equal of the best known
varieties ; and many showy species of Odonto-
glossums are thriving, and all are showing a
m irked tendency to increase the number of
their leadiug growths and maturing the pseudo-
bulbs.

The Cattleyas are equally promising, even small
plants having numbers of young growths dispropor-
tionate to their size, especially C. Percivaliana, a
stout plant of which in a large 48-pot possessed nine
of them, and others five or six. Tbe Cattleyas and
Lrelias grow^ in a commodious span-roofed house,
the space beneath the stages being furnished with
rockeries, planted with Tradescantias, Begonias,
and other low-growing plauts ; the path consisting
of trellis-work laid on the natural earth. This
method of construction has taken the fancy of
many cultivators of Orchids, and they are adoptii g
it largely in preference to cement, stone, &o.
The appearance of the Cattleyas is quite satis-
factory ; all of them growing and flowering in
tliair season. At the present time, the show
consists piincipally of Cattleya Mossiae in variety,
including a nice plant of the white C. M. Reineck-
iana in Uid, and a fiue form of C. M. Wagneri ;
and others in bud or flower are Cattleya Schilleriana
of a very fine type, C. Mendeli, C. Gaskelliana
alba, C. Warscewiczii, Odontoglossum citrosmum,
Epidendrum falcatum, and E. nemorale.

In a waim house, the showy Dendrobiums are
thriving surprisingly, and especially some hundreds
of Dendrobium Phah-enopsis, every bit of which
seems to make a strong plant in a short space of
time. These and other species of Dendrobium are
suspended near the roof. Ladia Digbyana and
Diacrium (Epidendrum) bieornutum are plants not
usually considered easy to manage, which here
thrive remarkably, the Diaeriums coming into
flower regularly. A recently-imported plant of
Ladia Digbyana is showing its flower-spike. Flower-
ing plants of Cypripedium Lawrenceanum, C.
Mastersianum, and a few others are in bloom.

CHEMICAL MANURES FOR POT
PLANTS.

(Concluded from p. 387.)
There is, further, the varying natures of plants
to be taken into account. A Strawberry, for in-
stance, may require no food beyond that provided
by the compost until the following spring, and
even then two or three slight dressings of supers
may be sufficient to produce high-class fruits. A
Pelargonium, on the other hand, propagated in

water, to use a common phrase, is not in it in
comparison. Another familiar class of plants that
benefits to a surprising degree is various Palms.
These may be preserved in vigorous health, and in
that perfect, dark green condition of foliage which is
so pleasing, simply by continued applications of
superphosphate, though for these I prefer "slag
flour ; " and in order to produce larger fronds, free
applications of nitrate of soda are also commendable.
Perhaps the most remarkable effect produced by
the employment of superphosphates is that it exerts

A FLOWERING BAMBOO.

A plant of Bambusa vulgaris, the B. arundinacea
of some authors, but not of "Willdenow, according
to Dr. Stapf, flowered at the Experimental Station
and Nurseries, St. Clair, Trinidad. The illustra-
tion (fig. 137) shows a branch cut from a large
clump and placed iu the ground for the purpose
of being photographed. During the past twelve
years I have seen the Bamboo in flower on three
occasions only, but have not yet seen perfect seeds.
J. II. Hart, Botanic Garden, Trinidad.

Fig. 137. — a flowering bamboo.

spring, and placed in its blooming-pot in Juue,
will require occasional applications from the time
it is housed iu October right on till spring, and
this in order that it may at no time approach
exhaustion, but always be in a condition to produce
flowers. The value of superphosphate in brighten-
ing colours is another point worthy consideration,
and in no instance is this seen to better effect than
in the case of plants with coloured foliage, of
which Codiamms (Crotons) may be mentioned as an
example. Not only will these plants colour better,
but they may be also successfully grown for a
long time in comparatively small pots, by the
simple aid of the manures recommended ; manure-

in the productiou of roots. Where pot-plants rre
lavishly supplied with water, this result is less
apparent; but in my experience it has been in-
variably noticeable in cases where plants have been
carefully watered. This fact, no doubt, explains
how plants comparatively large in bulk can be
successfully grown for many successive years ou this
food alone ; and also how poor potting soils yield
almost as good results when dressed with supers
and nitrates from almost immediately after the
plants have been potted. Composts mixed up
with a larger than usual quantity of animal mauures
are no doubt, and possibly for the same reason,
equally effective ; but they are not lasting, and aie

June 1?, 1S99]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

391

always more liable to become soured through an
overwatering. But it must not be expected that
plants grown without repotting, even with all the
aids of artificial manures, can be induced to make so
good a growth as those treated regularly to fresh
soil, or that poor composts by their use can be
transformed into ones of equal value with those
naturally of a high-class order. Their value though
great is not supreme. It is worth noticing, too,
that plants regularly dressed with "artificials"
require a smaller quantity of water ; or, to put it in
another way, such plant may safely be left un-

FlO. 188.—
a, OM setee from within the worm's body, being rejected.

watered for a longer period than those which are
not so fed. I by no means wish to insinuate soil dry-
ness as commendable in pot-culture, but no one can
disapprove of a material that lessens the quantity
of water, which may become a real agent of exhaus-
tion, without in any degree affecting injuriously the
health of the plant. As a matter of fact, a lavish
application of water in conjunction with chemical-
food, is a very real source of evil, as it causes a
flabby growth, that however pleasant to look
upon, is not seldom ruinous. This brings
ui tj the important question as to quantities
required, and methods of application. Generally
an error is made in applying too much at a time,
and renewing the dressing loug before the previous

Fro. 130.—
B, Throe sets nf seta-. The two strong pairs from hinder ] art

of worm's body ; the set of four from anterior porti

showing characteristic form of seta' in tliis genus.

one has been used up. A very slight dressing,
often repeated is, therefore, to be preferred to one
of larger quantities. It is a good rule to mix
superphosphates and nitrate of soda, or sulphate of
ammonia together, previous to using, and in the
proportions of three of the former to two of the
last named. When slag is employed it must
be applied first, and the others not until a few
days later. In the case of soft-wooded, rapidly-
growing plants that can all be watered at the
same time, the chemicals may be dissolved in the
water and so applied. This, however, is a practice
generally not to be commended. For one thing
the manures, in the nature of the ease, cannot be

so evenly distributed, an extreme instance being
that of a plant which at the moment requires no
water, and therefore goes unfed. When, on the
other hand, the manure is very thinly and evenly
sprinkled over the surface of the soil, there is
nothing left to chance that each plant receives its
quota. If it requires water soon, so much is
dissolved and carried through tho soil ; if louger,
the material is still slowly dissolving, and in a more
fit state for absorption. But in either case all
fare alike. II. P. Brotherston, Tyninyhame.

A PASTURE PROBLEM.

In IS0.!, Mr. J. Percy Moore, in some notes on
American Enchytraids which appeared in the
Proceedings of the Academy of Xnlural Sciences oi
Philadelphia, described a new species of white
worm, under the name of Fridericia agricola. He
made also the followiug statement relative thereto :
— "These worms are slow and sluggish in move-
ment, and rest most of the time coiled up more or
less tightly. They are very plentiful in early
spring about the lawns and meadows of Wayne,
Delaware County, Pennsylvania, where they are
found most frequently coiled up among the bulbous
underground stems of Garlic. Later, during the
summer, they become very scarce, apparently dying
off, as almost none could be found on digging to a

Fro. 140.-
lii.iin (i>,), or supra-oesophageal ganglion attached to nerve-
chord, showing swellings (h) in early segments, and
muscular attachments (*n) by which the brain is Qxed
to the bo ly-wall behind.

depth of 1 S inches, and they did not reappear even
when the grouud was soaked by prolonged rains."
In 1890 I found aud figured this species in Cumber-
land ; and in January, 1 SOS, found it again by the
river Eden, near Carlisle. In neither case was
there any reason to suppose that the worm was
injurious. I have now, however, to report it from
Kent under circumstances which, to say the least.
are suspicious. A short time ago (viz., during
the Easter holidays), Mr. Charles Whitehead, of
Banning House, Maidstone, sent me a consignment
of small worms, with the following note : —

"I venture to send you specimens of a species
of an Oligochaeta, evidently belonging to the
Euchytra?id;e. May I ask you if you can tell me
what species it is? I find it in grass-land, which
is suffering from some unknown cause. The grasses
are dying off, and at the bases of the stems I find
these Oligochaets. I am bound to say they are not
very numerous, but as a rule there seems to be one
at every diseased plant-base. May I ask you to
tell me whether in your opinion this is sufficient to
cause grass on fine soil to die off, so that the
meadow looks unhealthy at a distance ? It was
supposed that the grasses are suffering from the
water having been impregnated with gas-lime, but
this would have killed the Oligochaets and other
insects I found in the earth."

As the specimens supplied to me were preserved
in spirits). I asked for living material to be sent,

because the results to be obtaiued from the study
of the animals in a fresh condition are always more
satisfactory than when based on bottled specimens.
A sod about 3 inches square, which arrived in due
time, contained several living worms ; and these
were carefully examined with a view to the
accurate determination of the species, as well as to
ascertain if possible whether the worms had caused
the mischief which seemed to lie at their door.

The species proved to be the same as that found
by Moore in Philadelphia, and by myself in Cum-
berland (Fridericia agricola, Moore) ; aud as it has

Fio. 141.—
D, Spermatheca from segment live, with aperture (") between
fourth and llfth segments. Shows two 9acs(s)anda

set of seta- in situ , drawn to the same seal.'.

never been fully described in any English journal,
it seems desirable to give a pretty full account of
the worm, with a few drawings, setting forth the
main characteristics. There is a considerable varia-
tion in many particulars between one specimen and
another, which largely depends on the age and
development. I find them to be about 20 mm. or
J inch in length, and to consist of about 50 segments.
Moore gives a length of "20 to 23 mm., and 6.5 seg-
ments for a mature worm. The setx vary in
number, from two to six. In some worms, only
one pair of sehe is found in each buudle in the
hinder half of the worm (fig. 139) ; but more fre-
quently there are three or four, while five or six is

Fio. 142.—

E, Extremity of one of the salivary glands, orpeptonephtidia.
Drawn by the author from fresh material under the camera
lucida.

the normal number in the front half. As with
other species of Fridericia, the central set* are
always smaller than the outer, their proportionate
sizes being represented by the camera lucida
drawings appended herewith. "Sometimes the
number is respectively five or three, owing to
retention of one seta of the larger outer pair for
a greater length of time than its fellow" (Moore).
The discarded setaj seem to find their way into the
coelom rather than fall outside the body, and they
then appear more or less rubbed down or imperfect,
as seen in the illustration (fig. 1.3S). I find the head-

392

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 17, 1890.

pore between the prostoniiuni and the first seg-
ment, and the dorsal pores commencing with the
seventh segment, as Mr. Moore remarks.

Coming now to the study of the internal charac-
ters, we find the following distinguishing features.
Moore says the brain, or supra-cesophageal ganglion,
is like that of F. longa, Moore ; two-thirds as
broad as long, and convex behind. This agrees
with my woodcut (tig. 140), but I may add that the
front also has a prominent convexity. The nerve-
chord also in the front segments shows some
features which are characteristic. " The salivary
glands are conspicuous, and each is divided
into from five to seven slender tubular
branches, which may themselves be simple, or pro-
vided with one or two lateral twigs. The tubes are
of very irregular diameter. As Mr. Moore gives a
figure of one of these glands, it may be compared
with my own (fig. 142), taken from microscopic pre-
paration with camera lucida. The same applies to
the spermatheca; (fig. 141), which open between seg-
ments four and five, lying in the latter segment in
contact with the intestine. ' ' The long, slender
stalks are from six to seven times the length of the
sacculated portion. The enlarged portion consists
of a central thick-walled cylindrical region, capped
by a thinner-walled, more or less conical piece,
which at its apex opens into the oesophageal lumen.
A single pair of accessory sacs arise opposite to
each other from the base of the thick-walled
region." In one specimen from Kent the sacs were
triple, in this respect allying the worm to F.
ulmicola, Friend. " These sacs," Mr. Moore con-
tinues, "are of subspherical, or sometimes more or
less flatteued shape [depending on age and develop-
ment], and when fully developed, quite as large as
the primary sac. No glands are present at the
mouth of the spermatheca." This is a point of
great importance for purposes of diagnosis. Mr.
Moore says nothing of the septal glands. I find
these to consist of three pairs, lying in segmeuts
four, six, and seven, the sacs of the spermathecte
being in segment five. I have not yet studied the
nephridia, but Moore says "the auteseptal portion
is ovate, the. post-septal slender, with a dorsal lobe
about equalling in size the anteseptal. The terminal
duct passes forward nearly to the septum, and then
bends sharply backwards to its external pore. " I
have studied the blood-vessels of the first four
segments, as it seems to me that a little more
attention needs to be paid to this characteristic.
I find that the prostomium sometimes tends to
become papillose. In the adult worm no Betae
appear on segment twelve where the girdle is
situated. A pair of large pores occur here, from
which protrude hyaliue sacs. The girdle usually
extends into the thirteenth segment. I have not
observed the segment iu which the dorsal vessel
originates.

The question now arises, is Fridericia agricola,
Moore, injurious to grass and cultivated plants '!
I am bound to say that when I found it in Cumber-
land, there was not the slightest ground for
suspicion. In the one case it was discovered at a
roadside drinking-trough, where the water from
upland pastures trickled over moss and grass. In
the other case, it was just under the crown of the
soil in grass by the water-side, and was, in my
opinion, living on vegetable debris, and not on the
living grass. I have enquired of Mr. Whitehead
whether the meadow was low-lying, and find it is so.
I should say the worms are not hastily to be con-
demned ; though they were found in the stems of
grasses, they may have been there as scavengers,
because the grass was already injured. A wide
field of inquiry is opened up, and as I have for
some years been making a special study of the
white worms in relation to agriculture, floriculture,
and horticulture, I propose to give some account,
in some further articles, of white worms found in
the manure used for gardens and pastures. Mean-
while, I shall be glad to hear of any facts which
tend to throw light on a subject which is of the
highest importance in its bearing on the future of
agriculture. Hilderic Friend, Ocker Hill, Tipton.

DESTRUCTIVE FUNGI.

A Willow - Destroying Fungus (Cryptomyces
aureus, Mass. ). — A visit to the Norfolk Broads when
the ground is covered by snow all over the rest of the
country, is not perhaps an ideal way of taking a holi-
day, but certain fungi have to be obtained during
the winter if one wants them to germinate to the
best advantage. On the banks of a stream running
into one of the Broads a number of stunted Willows
were observed. On examination it was found that
their stunted growth was due to this parasite,
which, at the time of observation, was iu full
vigour, for evidently this is a fungus which fructi-
fies at all seasons of the year. It was originally
figured by Sowerby in his English Fungi, t. 336,
under the name of Sphieria aurea. It first appears
on the young twigs, upon which the shiniug black
patches are surrounded by a very marked bright
yellow border that contrasts strikingly with the
smooth green bark. On rather older twigs the
yellow circumferential zones are not so distinct,
while upon older branches still they are practically
not observable. After a time the shining outer
stroma covering the young spots ruptures, and the
sporidia escape very much after the style of the
Bhytismse. The patches of disease exteud in a

dimidiate pileus ; the others were effused. The
total number would never have been suspected had
not the hollow stump been large enough to crawl
into. They were then seen affixed not only to the
sides, but adhering to the roof of the tunnels, which
represented the main roots. As a matter of fact, we
must regard Polyporus ulmarius as an Elm-hollow-
ing parasite. It is unlike P. fraxiueus, for when this
fungus once attacks a living Ash, the tree is doomed,
and seldom lives, according to my experience, more
than a year or two ; but with P. ulmarius the ease
is different, the affected trees become hollow but
continue to live for years. Both species are found
most frequently upon the base of the trunks. A
section of P. ulmarius shows that it is perennial.
The yellow-brown tubes contrast with the white
flesh, so that it is easy to see the manner in which
the sporophores have been developed. How they
are superimposed one upon another, and that not
only so, but that the earlier are included in the
later. The point which interests us is that it is
essentially for its mauner of growth, a tree-hollowing
fungus, and that it is a true parasite. The question of
" tree hollowing " is one which has not received the
attention it deserves. Hartig has shown how 1'.
annosus (Trametes radiciaperda) causes piping in
Larch-trees by the mycelium creeping along the

Pig. 143.— polyporus olmarius : parasitic .>n the elm.

a section sh wing the stratose tubes, t i a semi-effuse 1 specimen crowing on the upper side

ufa hollowed main root of an Elm, at Aahwicken Hall. King's Lynn, April :*, 18»9.

a, Rotten w 1 ; B, List season's pileus included in tliis season's ;

' Sporophore ; o, Stratose tubes. C. /■'. /'. <"' nat. <hh

centrifugal manner, so that the branches denuded
of their bark, with the outer segment of the woody
tissues dead and blackened by the fungus, present
a very deplorable appearance. The affected
branches die after a time, hence the blighted and
stunted look of the affected shrubs. C. 1!. P.

An Elm-tree Parasite, Polypori s
Ulmarius, Ft.
This is a fungus the sporophores of which are not
fouud every day, probably because they are not
looked for in the right place Unlike most Poly-
pori the pdei ate formed inside the tree, not outside,
hence it is useless to look for them excepting iu
hollow trees. It has long been known as a British
fungus. Sowerby figured it in his English Fungi,
t. 88, iu 1797. Mr. Berkeley in the Outlines says it is
found " in old Elm trees," and that it is conmion.
His figure, plate 16, fig. 5, is a very poor one, for
instead of the pileus being blackish, as he repre-
sents, it is whitish. The margin is always white,
and the tubes yellowish or orange, not alternately
red and white, as his figure shows them. In
reality, it seldom forms a pileus at all — at least, not
a pileus with a free edge. The specimen on this page
(fig. 143) was gathered from the interior of a huge
Elm, overturned by the wind, which grew at Ash-
wicken Hall near King's Lynn. There were about
a dozen specimens, only one of which had formed a

roots, aud so upwards into the truuk ; the attacked
trees, however, are soou killed. But what causes
the hollowing of our Ash, Willow, aud Oak-trees ?
Iu a communication I made some time ago, I
pointed out how the Oaks of Sherwood Forest
were affected when they fell a prey to Polyporus
sulphureus — by having the whole of the interior of
the trunk destroyed. P. ulmarius does the same
for the Elm ; but what is the cause of the Willow
losing its interior? This is a question well worth
working ont, for Willow wood has a distinct com-
mercial value for certain purposes. The note on
" A Mammoth Willow," on p. 215 of the Gardeners'
Chronicle, April S, 1899, shows how comparatively
seldom these trees attain any size in a condition of
commercial value. C. B. P.

DlTOrELLA fusispora, De Not, AN ALDER-
DESTROYING PARASITE.
During the past winter my attention has been
directed from time to time to the Pyrenomycetes of
the common Alder ( Alnus glutinosa). In the month
of February, some observations were made which
may be of interest. February is the month par
excellence in which to find the Sphajriacea? in fruit,
as the late Mr. Frederick Curry pointed out to me
more than thirty years ago. By fruit, we then
meant ascigerous fructification, and in those days
our interest was with what the fungus was like,

June 17, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

393

■whereas, now it is more with what it does. No one
dreamed at that time that Sphseria ditopa, Fr., as
it was then called, was anything but a saprophyte
which grew on dead Alder sticks, because they were
dead. That the Pyrenomycetes are many of them
true parasites seems somewhat difficult for us in
this country to grasp, so essentially conservative
are we in our intellectual proclivities, yet such is
the case ; although many of the Spherisa are both
saprophytic as well as parasitic in their mode
of life.

The fungus in question (fig. 144), is found upon
dead Alder twigs while they are still attached to the
trees. The bark of the affected branches assumes a
bright red-brown hue, which contrasts strikingly
with the dark greenish hue of the bark of the living
twigs. If an affected tree or bush be examined, it will
be seen that while many of the red-brown shoots are
dead quite down to their attachment to the trunk,
yet there are very many in which the tips only
have lost their vitality, as in the specimen sent
(tig. 144, 1). Thelineof demarcation between thedead
and the living tissues is so abrupt, that it is evident
the tree has made an effort to limit the inroad of
the parasite, in much the same way as gangrene is
limited in animal tissues. Another point is that
the fungus is a wound-parasite, for the affected
twigs all show an old injury of some sort. This
may be a broken end where an animal has bitten a
piece off, or partial break ; a " green stick fracture "
from somebody or something brushing roughly past,
or where a minute lateral spray has been knocked
off, or even a clean-cut end, the wound made by a
pruning-knife or a hedge- trimmer's tool. On the
dead portion of the twig one finds a number of
black dots, the ostiola of the perithecia, which not
only project just above the epidermis, but are the
summits of distinct conical elevations, caused by
the upheaval of the cuticular layer of the bark by
the perithecia ; these can be both seen and felt.
If the outer layer of the bark be peeled off, the
perithecia will be found to come off with it, and
to adhere to its under-surface as little black dots
(fig. 144, -').

Should the examination happen to be made where
the fungus is in full vigour, the perithecia will be
seen as plump, spherical, black bodies, like Mustard-
seed, rilled with whitest jelly (tig. 144, :!). If the plant
is past its best, or if the twig be thoroughly dry,
then the perithelia will lie collapsed, and instead of
being spherical they will be concave or saucer-
shape(fig. 144,4). Much, therefore, depends upon the
time of the year the dissection is made. Dead
twigs hang on Alder bushes all the year, and
probably for more than the year, but the perfect
fungus will only be encountered during the winter
months, say, between December and March. Its
mycelium would be present, no doubt, in an active,
but by no means an easily recognisable condition
until the perithecia are formed. The whitish jelly
consists of a mass of asci and sporidia. The asci
are about 100 rn.k. long, and 15 wide (fig. 144, 6).
The sporidia (fig. 144, 5) are numerous, 15 — 25 by
2 — 3 m.k. Dr. Eehm thinks there are 24 in each
ascus, but they are very difficult to count, as they
adhere to one another.

Ditopella fusispora is not the only pyrenomycete
parasite upon Alder ; for as long ago as 1888, Dr.
E. Rostrup, in a paper entitled, " Tnder siegelser
over Snyltesvampes Angreb paa Skovtrser,"
1883— 18SS, p. 224, has shown that Oyptospora
suffusa in its ascigerous condition, is parasitic in
habit; while more recently V. Tubeuf in 1S92, in a
paper entitled, "Zwei Feinde der Alpenerle, "
shows that in the Alps, AInus viridis is the host of
Valsa oxystoma, Eehm, and that considerable injury
is caused by it in the Tyrol. In the account of
Tubeuf's work on this point, as given in the
English translation of his Diseases of Plants,
p. 22(5, a curious slip occurs, where it is said, "Most
of the other species of Valsa cause only leaf-spot,
or occur on dead leaves;" since Valsa is not a
folicolous genus at all, but purely corticolotis.
Charles B. Plowright, M.I)., King's Lynn, Norfolk,
April 10, 1S99.

FLOWER NOTES FEOM EDGE
HALL, MALPAS.

Never was a more complete transformation
effected in a garden from a nearly flowerless con-
dition at the end of May to a general gay display
on the tenth of June. So long a aeries of cloudless
suns is very rare here, and recalls to me the time
a few years ago when an enthusiastic neighbour
used to drive 3 miles at seven in the morning to
catch my Cistus llowers at their best. All my

I'll. 144.— DITOPELLA FDSISFOBA: 1 PARASITE OF THE COMMON
ALDER, ALN1 S OLUT1SOSA.

1. A twig, tin- upper part of which lias been killed by the
parasite. The upper end (a) shows an old fracture,
through which the parasite gained admission. Towards
the lower end the line of deinarkation between the dead

and living tissues (n) is very distinct. The perithecia are
scattered over the att'eeted area (reduced halt).
■_'. A portion enlarged 2 diameters. A piece of the epidermis
has been lifted up and rolled back, showing six perithei ia
adherent to it ; on the corresponding surface of the hark,
depressions are visible into which the bases of the peri-
thecia fitted. Scattered over the rest "I Hi, fragment,
the prominent black ostioles of numerous other perithecia
are to he seen.

3. A peritliecium at maturity (xlO).

4. A peritliecium from which the sporidia have escaped,

leaving it collapsed and empty. The same collapsed
condition occurd from simple desiccation ( x 10).

5. Five sporidia (X000).

6. A-cus containing numerous sporidia (xliOO).

Charles !'. PI right, M.D., "<?. >mt. del.

gayest hardy plants are on borders ami slopes
facing the East, and the way to admire .ill llowers
is with the sun at your back. But when the light
has got round into the western half of the sky the
effect is spoilt, for hardly any flowers can face a

western sun in its full blaze without having a
withered look. In short, as a general rule East is
the best aspect and West the worst for hardy
flowers, and early morning is the time to see them
in summer.

Poppies and Irises seem never to find the sun too
bright. The best perennial Poppy I have is Mr.
C'arrington Ley's hybrid of P. orientals ; it will
never be common, because few gardeners will take
the trouble to nurse it up from small pieces, as it
requires. But I have now several plants of it 4 feet
across, with thirty or forty flowers open at a time,
with the prospect of a second edition in autumn.
The flowers support themselves on elegantly-curved
stems, at different heights from the grouud. A
contrast to this is the upright and stiff-stalked I',
bracteatum, 6 feet high, with huge deep blood-red
flowers, which I raised from seed as a novelty in
my garden at Eton fifty years ago, and have had
the original plants, propagated by divisions, ever
since, and still consider it by far the best of the
polymorphous Oriental Poppies.

About Irise3 I cannot boast much. Last year
the Hag Irises, commonly called "German," were
attacked in the leaves by a destructive mildew
which seemed to descend from the top to the liases
and rot the tuber. I dug up and burnt all the
worst, following the usual advice of plant doctor,
in such cases. Those which were spared are now
flowering more profusely than I ever have seen
them doing, aud 1 look in vain for a trace of last
year's mildew.

St. Bruno's Lily is a beautiful plant, which is
worth improving by selection. The old type,
dwarf and compact, has some tendency to hide the
flowers amongst the foliage, whilst the form called
in nurseries majus, or giganteum, flowers only on
the part of the stalk above the leaves, and looks
overgrown and top-heavy. But there is every
intermediate, and they grow altogether, as I
have seen them, in the same valley in the Pyrenees ;
and as they seed freely in gardens, selections may
be made with foliage thin and flower-stalks
plentiful. In parts of the garden where a wilderness
is allowed to prevail, Thalictrum aquilegkefolium
aud Asphodelus ramosus are now making a great
show. An authority in art told me I ought to weed
out the purple meadow Puies, growing only the
white ; but I own I like them mixed, as I have
seen them by their native streams in the South of
France. As for the Asphodel, the same friend was
delighted to see it, as she only knew before the
pretty name aud the pretty fable of the Elysian
meadows where it grows. It is true that a dense
mass of these stout stalks, 6 feet high, might
rather impede the free movement of mortals,
but ghosts might float through them without in-
convenience ; but perhaps the Asphodel which
Homer knew was quite different from what men
now call by that name. Heuchera sanguinea
suffered very much from the wet winter followed
by hard frosts, and is ODly now recovering par-
tially ; but a hybrid of it with H. cylindrica,
having flowers of a varied aud lively pink, is much
more hardy, and is now very full of flower. This
is the best of several hybrids which H. sanguinea
has produced in my garden, and ripens seed which
grows into many fresh varieties of colour, from
white to scarlet. Incarvillea Delavayi, a Chinese
perennial, now getting into general cultivation,
with pink flowers like those of a very large
Mimulus, has done very well this year. It
hardly looks as if it would rough it in an
ordiuary border ; if it does, there will be
no limit to its quantity, as it seeds abun-
dantly, and is easily raised. For one or two
winters it seemed as if it would not be hardy,
but with a small pyramid of ashes over the crowns,
and a well-drained position, more than a dozen
plauts in different parts of the garden seem all to
have survived ; and some have two or three stalks,
each bearing two or throe flowers. The orange

coloured variety of Meci p is cambrica, which I

brought some years ago from the Pyrenees

a more robust form with larger flowers than the

394

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 17, 1S99.

yellow type ; but it has not the bright orange to
be found in Papaver nudicaule.

Speaking of orange-coloured flowers, why is
Trollius " Orange Globe " so named ? I bought it,
expecting it to be orauge-coloured, and when I
sunt a flower and a remonstrance to the nurseryman ,
Jaa told me it was quite genuine and orange — but I
«all it yellow. I have for several years grown
Trolliuses (hybrids, I believe, of T. asiaticus), and
improved them by selection till I have a strain of
the colour of Calendula officinalis. The so called
" Orange Globe " is a fine handsome Hower, which
I cannot beat for size, but is far from being of that
celour.

I will mention only three alpines. .Ethionema
grandiflorum, some of the plants densely flowered,
and 2 feet across, is the brightest ornament of my
rockery, very vivid pink. My friend the lady
artist, mentioned above, tells me I ought not to
admire the colour, as it is " too pink ; " but I do
admire it— very much. Another alpine of which I
am proud, which is also very bright pink, is
Lychnis Lagasca?. For many years 1 could never
keep it through winter ; the tender perennial
stalks were broken to pieces by snow and frost ;
but I now grow it in abundance on the perpen-
dicular face of a brick wall, where it thrives won-
derfully, some of the plants being several years old,
and 9 inches or more across, and now quite full of
flower.

Lastly, Oxalis enueaphylla, a very elegant and
distinct Sorrel from the Falkland Islands, has now
proved itself quite hardy through several winters.
The climate of the Falkland Islands is much milder
in winter than that of England, ice seldom being
half-an-inch thick ; but I have now several good
plants from there which the storms of their native
land seem to have prepared to resist greater cold
than they have felt at their home. G. Wolley Dod,
Edge Hall, Malpas, June 10.

Plant Notes.

IVY-LEAVED PELARG0N1CM "MRS.
HAWLEY."

This is a new variety raised by Mr. Hawley
from Souvenir de Charles Turner, and is beiDg
distributed from the Royal Nursery, Slough. It
was brought before the Floral Committee of the
Royal Horticultural Society at the recent Temple
Sbow, but not in good condition ; and it was
thought by some to be too much like the variety
from which it originated as a seedling. In one of
the Pelargonium-houses at Slough, there is, on a
plant-stage, a large batch of each of the two
varieties, placed there for the purposes of com-
parison. This comparison enables the points of
difference to be noted. Free in blooming as the
parent is, the child surpasses it ; its wonderful
floriferousness is one of its leading features ; the
flowers have more of crimson in them, and less of
magenta than those of the parent ; they are
therefore rightly described as being darker, while
the habit of growth is quite distinct. There are a
large number of plants in 48-pots, and they serve as
a suitable illustration of the marvels produced
under good culture in a 48-sized pot. As a decora-
tive ivy-leaved Pelargonium for decorative purposes,
bearing double flowers, it is well worth cultivation.
Of its entire distinctness I have not the slightest
doubt, after an opportunity of seeing the two side
by side. It. D.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick Wioan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

CaUlcya Skinneri and C. S. alba. — Although
most Cattleyas succeed when grown in baskets,
these should not be used generally owing to the
difficulty that arises when the plants need larger
ones, it being necessary to place the old basket
bodily into a new and larger one, to prevent irre-
parable damage to the roots. But for the species

C. Skinneri, nothing serves the purpose so well as
teakwood baskets, and providing the potting opera-
tion be performed in an efficient manner, a long
period will elapse before a larger one is required.
Plants whose growths are still within the confines
of the basket need be re-surfaced only with new
peat and fresh sphagnum-moss, first removing as
much of the old material as may be done without
injuring the roots. Other specimens may be care-
fully removed from the baskets they are now
growing in to others of larger sizes. So dispose the
rhizomes that the growing point will incliue towards
the centre of the basket. Use plenty of crocks,
and, with the exception of those pieces placed at
the bottom of the basket, the rest should be placed
in as upright a position as possible. The plants
will thrive best if suspended from the roof, or,
failing this, they should be raised considerably
above the stage, so that abundance of air may
circulate around them.

0. Bowrimjiana and C. citrina. — C. Bowringiaua
is now making new growths, and great care is
needed in watering the plant. The species requires
a long, complete rest, and even now only sufficient
water to prevent the bulbs shrivelling should be
afforded. Place the plants in a light position in
the Cattleya-house, and do not permit thrips to
obtain a foothold. C. citrina having flowered,
should be suspended in a light and airy position
in a cool-house, and be afforded sufficient water as
will prevent the newly-made pseudo-bulbs from
shrivelling.

Trichopi/ias. — T. suavis, tortilis, crispa and
margiuata succeed beat in baskets, which are sus-
pended from the roof of the Cattleya-house, iu a
position where there is the greatest degree of shade,
and excepting when the plants are rooting actively,
a very moderate supply of water is needed. In
most instances the plants have passed out of flower.
Pick away some of the old potting material and re-
surface with good peat and fresh sphaguum moss,
using the latter sparingly. Any specimens re-
quiring new baskets, should be carefully removed
by taking out the corner pins of the baskets, and
afterwards the bars separately. Afford a good
supply of drainage materials, and surface with
fibrous peat and a few bits of sphagnum moss. T.
cocciuea, and T. (Helcia) sanguineolenta, require
to be grown in pots, otherwise the above treat-
ment will be suitable. T. fragrans, and the large-
flowered form, nobilis, need a cooler temperature,
and I generally place them with the Odouto-
glossum crispum, the treatment they require being
similar. But when the bulbs have become matured,
water will only be required at loug intervals of time.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. 13. Furtescue, Esq., Dropmorp,
Maidenhead.

Sioi 1 I I 'In rries. — The fruits on the earliest Sweet
Cherries on wall-trees are swelling rapidly and
changing colour, and the trees should be covered
with nets to safeguard the fruits, or the blackbirds,
thrushes, and starlings will devour them as fast as
they change colour. Bigarreau de Schreken, a good
aud free-cropping Cherry, is one of the earliest, and
fruits of this variety are now nearly ready for
consumption. Iu suspending nets from the top of
a fruit-wall, a few forked sticks should be made
use of for keeping it far enough away so as to
prevent the birds reaching the fruits through the
meshes ; at the base it may be pegged out a yard
or more away from the wall. The ends should be
carefully secured to the wall. Should black-fly
iufest the shoots, the points of those not required
to be laid iu should be removed and burnt, while
for those which must be retained a strong extract
of Quassia should be prepared, and the points
dipped in it, as syringing or wetting the fruits
with this bitter insecticide is not permissible at
this date. Trees of later varieties should be
afforded water copiously at the root weekly, more
especially if the weather be hot and dry, and the
land of a light nature.

Currants and Gooseberries. — These fruits are
making a good deal of growth, aud the laterals may
be stopped by pinching out the point of the shoot
at the fourth or fifth leaf. Currants are often
infested with fly on the points of the young growths,
and the pinching destroys many of the aphides.
The main shoots of young bushes, or those whose
size it is wished to increase, should be allowed to
extend without stopping the points. These may be
dressed with Quassia, as recommended for Cherries.
Where large ripe Gooseberries are required for the

dessert, the more heavily cropped bushes should be
thinned of some of the unripe fruits whilst these
are still small. If red-spider appears on the foliage,
afford the bushes two or three drenchings with the
garden-engine on successive evenings, making use
of a weak solution of Gishurst Compound-soap and
water, or strong soap-suds made with soft-soap ;
aud a few days afterwards apply clear water to
clean the bushes of all traces of soap.

Caterpillars of the (looseltrry Saw-fly. — If the
attack of these troublesome creatures is not a
severe one, hand-picking or shaking the bushes
after spreading a sheet beneath the bush will suffice
to clear them. The poisonous Hellebore-powder,
commonly recommended for this kind of insect
destruction, should ouly be used when other means
have failed.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markuam, Gardener to the Earl of Strafford,
Wrothain Park, Barnet.

Polatos. — The plots of late Potatos should now
be moulded up, first hoeing between the rows, and
pulling up any large weeds. Should the soil have
become hard, let it be dug with a fork carefully
between the rows, after which the earthing-up may
be done. Field-potatos should be scuffled with a
horse implement to destroy weeds, choosing dry
weather to do the work ; and when the tops are
high enough, lose no time in earthing them up with
a moulding plough, otherwise a good deal of damage
may be done to the tops and tubers.

Cardoons. — Although this vegetable is not gene-
rally cultivated, it makes a nice addition to the
list of culinary vegetables. The plauts, if the
seeds were sown at the proper time, should now be
in a fit state for planting out in the trenches, pre-
pared as for Celery, excepting that they may
be a trifle wider and deeper. Tbe plants may
be set out at IS inches apart. The plants
having been raised in pots, should be turned
out with care, and when the plauting is finished,
the whole should have a good application of water
which has been warmed by exposure to the sun.

1'cas. — Should the weather remain dry, afford
water freely to the soil on both sides of the rows,
using alternately with clean water some kind of
liquid-manure, mulching the entire space betwieu
the rows, or only for a foot or so alongside the rows,
with half-decayed manure. If water be pleotifu',
Pea? should be afforded au ccias'ocal syiiognj.
The rows of late Peas, before being earthed up,
should be weeded or hoed, then afforded water on
both sides, and soon afterwards the soil should 1 e
drawn up to the plauts and sticks put to them. In
dry weather mildew and thrips have to be guarded
against, for they check the plauts and cause them
to pod too early, which makes it difficult to keep
up a regular supply for table. In order to avoid
this, afford water abundantly at the roots, alternated
with manure- water. Copious syringings will help
greatly to keep the plants free from thrips. The
last sowing may consist of tall Marrowfat early
varieties, sowing the seed in well - moistened
trenches. This sowing will afford pods in October,
provided they are not cut off or greatly checked by
frosts. The drills or trenches for this sowing may
be made a little deeper thau usual.

Miscfllaiirou*. — Make sowiugs at short intervals
of time of Lettuce, Carrots, Radishes of the break-
fast and Turnip rooted varieties; of Spinach,
Turnips, aud Mustard-aud-Cress.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury. Gloucester.

Sablropicals. — The various species and varieties of
the so-called subtropical plants impart an ornamental
appearance to the flower garden and the dressed
grouuds surrounding a maosiou if the sites of the beds
are such as befit the plants, and the plants do not
seem incongruous ; and they are as admissible in a
geometrical parterre as in the irregular flower
garden, and in proximity to beds of herbaceous
perennials as to those filled with the usual summer
bedding plants, if ODly the position is appropriate.
The aspect selected for them should be one with
sufficient light to prevent the plants becoming
drawn, at the same time affords shelter from the
prevailing strong winds which would spoil their ap-
pearance. In preparing the beds, let good drainage
be secured* aud soil not less than 18 inches deep,
consisting of rich loam two-thirds, and rough leaf-
mould one-third. The surface of the bed should

June 17, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

395

be so shaped that the centre rises gradually from the
sides, and thus allows the plants to be seen to better
advantage than in the case of a Hat bed. Wigandias,
large-leaved Solanums, Acacias lophantha, Rici-
nus, Abutilons, Fimkias, Rhus. Cannas, Aralias,
Melianthus major, variegated Maize, which last-
named, if it be grown in pots, and these plunged
in the soil, will keep its variegation perfectly ;
and Acer Negundo foliis variegata, grown in the
same way, contrasts well with the darker foliage of
the other plants. All subtropical plants should be
thoroughly hardened-off before being planted out,
and they require liberal feeding, and plenty of water
when growing, especially those possessing large
leaves, which, in a certain degree, prevent the
rain from reaching the roots of the plants.

Begonias. — The fibrous and tuberous-rooted Be-
gonias may now be safely bedded-out. These
plants are easy of cultivation, providing their
needs are well considered at the first, that is, the
beds should be exposed to direct sunlight, be well
drained, and consist of a moderately retentive soil.
Should the staple be of a hungry nature, it is
well to add leaf-mould, charred soil, and hot-bed
manure, putting oue wheel-barrow load of the latter
per square yard of the soil, well mixing the whole
with the staple, and after levelling and shaping the
beds, make the whole moderately firm by trampling.
If a bed consists of Begonias alone, the distance at
which the plants will be set will depend on their
size. If they are plants of this year, 9 inches will
be sufficient ; but two-year old plants will require
from 12 to 15 inches. The crown of a tuber should
not be buried deeper than from 2 to 3 inches,
and the soil must be pressed firmly round the ball
of earth and roots. Having planted a bed, afford
water liberally, and afterwards let the surface of the
bed be kept somewhat loose with the Dutch-hoe. A
slight sprinkling overhead with a fine-rose watering-
pot after a hot, dry day refreshes the plants.
When in full growth, Begonias may be afforded
water rather freely. Where special colours in
masses are required, seedlings are not to be relied
upon, and the plants employed must be selected as
regards habit, height, and character and colour of
the blooms, but as a rule habit and shape and size
of (lower in improved straius go together. In beds
of mixed colours one cannot go wrong in selecting
the dwarfer seedlings, and these if they have been
raised early in the year will now be showing the
colour of their flowers. Effective beds are formed
by planting the Begonias further apart than is
stated, and plantiug a groundwork ot Sedum acre
and S. glaucum, aud Saxifragra hypnoides, or they
may themselves be used as a groundwork to taller
plants with variegated foliage, the colours blending
or forming an agreeable whole.

increased ventilation, be stood iu the open air.
Remove the flowers and flower-stems from zonal
Pelargoniums which are being grown for autumn
and winter flowering, and pinch the shoots occa-
sionally, in order to produce bushiness. Show
Pelargoniums should be stood in a sunny position
out-of-doors after flowering, to ripen the growth
and rest the plants. Afford only occasionally
water during dry weather, and in rainy weather
lay the plants on their sides.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By C. R. Fielder, Gardener to the Dowaoer Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Codiawmz and Draaenas. — The present is a very
suitable time for the propagation of these plants iu
quantity for decorative purposes during the winter.
Plants which have become too tall may be headed
down, and the young part of the tops inserted in
small pots, and these plunged in the propagating-
fratne. The stock of Drac;enas may be further
increased, if necessary, by cutting the stems of the
plants from which the tops have been taken into
pieces about 2 inches in length, aud inserting these
thickly in pans filled with sandy soil, taking care
that they are not placed upside down, and keeping
the tops of the cuttings level with the soil. When
they have produced a shoot and made a sufficient
number of roots, the cuttings should be potted
into small pots, and subsequently into others of a
larger size, and grown on until the plants form
good tops. The propagation of Draca>nas may also
be effected by means of the fleshy rhizomes, com-
monly called " toes," which are frequently found
near the base of the roots of old plants. These
may be cut off and inserted singly iu small pots,
and treated similarly to the stem-cuttings. A
position near the glass in a light house, with a
stove temperature and an abundance of atmospheric
moisture during the growing season, are essential
to the production of highly-coloured Codia?ums and
Dractenas.

Miscellaneous. — The points may be pinched out
of the shoots of Allamandas which are growing
freely after being cut back ; doing this increases the
number of flower-shoots. Hardy and half-hardy
annuals which are being grown in frames for con-
servatory decoration may, after being hardened by

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struonell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Lono,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

The Latest. Vinery.— The Grapes will now be
ready for thinning, and where Lady Downes, Aln-
wick Seedling, or Gros Colman comprise the sorts
grown, very careful thinning will be needed. For
late-keeping Grapes a much freer hand is desirable ;
crowded bunches are always bad keepers. The
berries of Lady Downes aud of Gros Colman are
borne on short, stiff stalks, and they consequently
need to be thinned severely, irrespective of late
keeping, than such long-stalked berries as Black
Hamburg. Alnwick Seedling is a fine mid-winter
drape, but the blooms do not always set regularly,
and the final thinning of berries and of bunches of
this variety may be deferred a short time. The
work of tying down the laterals should precede the
thinning, and no crowding of these must lie allowed.
Encourage rapid growth by closing the house early
in the afternoon, aud maintain a fair amount of
warmth in the hot water-pipes at night. Remove
all useless lateral growths once each week, pinch-
ing them back to within one joint whence they
issue after the first stopping. If any of the old
canes have grown unsightly, encourage a young
rod from the base of the existing ones, allow-
ing this to extend to about S or 9 feet before it is
finally stopped. Vigorous Vines will furnish the
roof with a new rod iu two or three years. An
unsatisfactory Vine can ofteu be replaced by
extending au adjoining one, and this is more satis-
factory than planting a young Vine in au old border.
In bad cases it may be advantageous to cut an old
rod back to the height of the front trellis, in order
to iuduce a satisfactory break. In this there is the
sacrifice of a year's crop, but the practice often
produces such an improvement that the loss is well
repaid.

Tint Early PeacJi-house.—VivMa of the earliest
Peaches and Nectarines having been gathered from
the trees, let all the shoots which have borne
fruits be removed so far as they can be spared,
and tie-in those of the current season's growth, in
order to cover the trellises without in the least
crowding the new wood. Admit air abundantly
by night and day, so as to keep the temperature
low. Houses that are lightly built are better for
being slightly shaded, either by syringing the
glass with prepared summer-shading or whiting
mixed thinly with milk. A double thickness of
fish- netting drawn over the roof would serve the
purpose as well, if not better ; but anything
affording much shade must be avoided. A slight
amount of shade not only prevents a high tempera-
ture, but checks premature ripening of the wood,
buds, and foliage, to which may be attributed
much of the trouble caused in the winter by bud-
dropping. Red spider is much in evidence this
summer, encouraged, no doubt, by the sudden
access of temperature, and the daily syriuging of
the trees should not be relaxed, but rather more
vigorously applied where spider is present, or
irremedial damage will be done. The borders
should have copious applications of water, especially
such of them as are filled with young roots. A
mulch to such borders is a great value in con-
serving the moisture in the soil and keeping it
cool. Pot-trees haviDg been cleared of their fruits
may be plunged in the soil outdoors, in a partially
shaded position at the first, as too much sunshine
may cause them to drop their leaves early. Afford
the soil iu the pots a thick mulch of strawy litter,
and water whenever the soil is found to be getting
dry. A daily syringing morning aud evening will
keep these trees healthy and freefroni insects.

The Second Early Peach-house. — The fruits of
Peaches Dr. Hogg, Bellegarde, Stirling Castle,
Dymond, Royal George, A'Bec, and Hale's Early,
now ripening generally, will, with careful ventilat-
ing and shading, be made to prolong the season
of forced Peaches for some time longer. Let all
fruits that are fit for table be plucked every
morning, and do not neglect the daily syringing of

the trees iu sunny weather. It is advisable in
syringing trees having ripening fruits upon them to
do this early in the afternoon, so that the foliage
and fruits may become dry before nightfall. The
fruit of the Nectarine is more liable than that of
the Peach to split if much wetted when ripening.
The water used at this stage should be quite clear,
as dirt cannot be removed from the skin of ripe
fruits. Let the fruits be as much exposed to the
sun as possible during the final swelling, or the
colour will be poor, and flavour not of the best.
The second early house is the better for having
constant ventilation after this date. Suppress
all superfluous laterals, and tie-in the shoots neatly
as occasion may require ; pinching back secondary
growths to one leaf. Bare spaces in established
trees can be furnished another season by inserting
wood-buds in the branches at the present time,
taking them from strong shoots on healthy trees.
The methods adopted with Roses is suited to the
budding of the Peach or Nectarine. It is only
from the early-started trees in forcing-houses that
such buds can now be obtained, and these buds
should be inserted near the base of the most
convenient branches, and always on the upper side
of them. It is always well to put a label bearing
the name of the variety on the budded branch.
Seedling trees, if strong enough, may lie budded,
but not placing more than one variety on one tree.

THE APIARY.

By Expert.
Return in./ swarms. — When swarms are not de-
sired, all queen cells should be removed immedi-
ately after the swarm has issued, and iu the evening
the bees may be returned in the usual way.
Examine and make sure that all queens of this year
are laying, if they are, eucourage them to breed as
many young bees as possible before ovipositing
ceases for the season. Such will make the very
best stocks for future work.

Ventilation.— If bees exhibit signs of distress by
hanging out in very hot weather, give ventilation
at the bottom of the hive by raising it up a little
from the floor-board, lowering it again at night.
Hives with sliding floors may have them withdrawn
a little, or lowered at the front, during the hottest
part of the day ; entrances also should be enlarged as
much as possible, andshaded if it can be conveniently
done. Sometimes it becomes necessary to remove
the wrappings of surplus boxes, and to slightly
raise the roofs which cover them, in order to allow
a current of air to play about the supers. It is,
however, not often needful to take all these pre-
cautions, unless in exceptionally hot summers,
when more care than usual is required, but a little
extra attention at such times is well repaid.

Grapes in Surrey.— The Surrey Magazine
for May, mentions that: — "Mr. Bennett, of
Cobham, among other Surrey growers, produces
Grapes of the first quality by scores of tons in a
crystal-covered field, aud worthy of special mention
is the most remarkable Vine in Britain, as raised
and grown by Mr. M. Davis, at Roehampton.
Its seven main stems extend in the aggregate more
than a quarter of a mile, and the Vine dwarfs
beyond all comparison the famous old monarch at
Hampton Court. It produced fruit for the royal
table on the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee, and
when the Vine was inspected by Paderewski, the
great master was so charmed that he charmed the
family of his guide in return by filling the
gardener's cottage with melody on Miss Davis's
piano— a performance of its kind that may bo
regarded as unique ! "

Wedding of a Well-Known Gardener.^
On Wednesday, 14th inst., at St. George's, Hanover
Square, the marriage took place of Mr. E. T.
Gilman, for many years head gardener to the
Earl of Shrewsbury and Talbot at Ingestre Hall,
Staffordshire, and of late years iu charge of the
gardens at Alton Towers, Cheadle, and Miss E.
Butters. The ceremony was largely attended by
the friends of both parties, and the reception was
held after the wedding by the kindness of Mrs.
Alfred Morrison, at 26, Bruton Street. The
happy pair received a large number of presents
from their mutual friends, and they left for
Brighton in the afternoon for the honeymoon.

396

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 17, 1899.

EDITORIAL NOTICES.

Newspapers. — Correspondents sending newspapers shmild be
careful to mark the paragraphs (hey wish the Editor to see.

Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c.; but
he cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY,

SATURDAY,

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY,

t,t„i io f Royal Agricultural Society's Show
JUNElJj at Maidstone (5 days).

t™~ on / Roval Oxfordshire Horticultural
June 20 1 g0,iety-s show.

T „, ( Rose Show at Shanklin, Isle of
June 21 -^ wigM-

June 23 — Royal Botanic Society, Lecture.

/"Windsor Rose and Horticultural
Jl'NE 2« Show.

I. Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

SALES.

I Begonias, Palms, Greenhouse
Jl m 21 J Plants, .Japanese Lilies, &c, at
( Prothcroe & Morris' Rooms. •

T ,., I Imported and Established Orchids

.iune _j j »t Protheroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royul
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period June 4 to June 10, 1899. Height above sea-
level 24 feet.

1899.

S

Temperature of
the Air.

Tempera-
ture of the
Soil at9a.m.

*
o

H

s

Pq

O

X
o

1

Ed

a

a

At 9 a.m.

a

w

4

t

P.

SI
9

-3

a, 3

a «

g h z
d a

i

n

i

0

<D

■a

CO
CD

«

53

o

►J

n

Is

m

j

deg.

deg.ldeg. deg.

ins.

deg. deg.

deg.

deg.

Son. 4

E S.E.

71-4 i'.0;> S0-5;50-0

"

62-558-2

53-1

41-1

Mon. 5

W.S.W.

71-8 59-882-7

4'.i'9

63-6

5S-9

53'5

41-9

Tues. 6

W.S.W.

19 B 63-5 79-3

51-2

64-9

.V.l -7

53-9

43-0

Wed. 7

S.E.

70-0

60-875-9

50-0

63-4

50fi

54-3

41-6

Thu. S

E.S.E.

56-2

49-862-8

49-9

, _'•-, 59 g

54-C

47-0

Fki. 'J

E.N.E.

55-1

4S-G5S-9

48-5

lil-8 59-7

54-9

47-1

Sat. 10

N.N.E.

56-7

50-567-8

50-0

62-1

59-7

55-2

43-4

Tot.

Means...

',4-4

50-3 72-6 50-0

...

68 0

5!>-4 54-2 43-6

Remarks.— The weather during the week lias been remark-
able for cold, drying winds, mostly from the cast. No rain
has fallen since May 24.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 61 *6\
Actual Temperatures : —

London.— June 14 (12 p.m.): Max. 60s ; Min. 45".
Provinces. — Tune 14 (6 p.m.): Man. 62', W. Ireland;
Min. 52°, N.E England.
Fine ; lo rain.

The intricacies of botanical no-

„ l;"ta"";'' menclature are perplexing enough
Nomenclature. j . L ° °

to experts, and in spite of con-
ferences and congresses there are still many
who prefer self-made law to any other. The
attempt to secure uniformity of practice seems
doomed to be futile ; it is, therefore, not sur-
prising that gardeners should feel that they too
have a right to make use of terms in their own
sense without regard to the authority of others.
In most cases, as in certain more serious
matters with which the public mind is con-
cerned just now, the matters in contention are
essentially trivial and relatively unimportant.

It is convenience rather than principle that
is at stake in most of these questions of nomen-
clature. Provided that the meaning in which a
particular term is used is clear alike to him who
uses it, and to him to whom it is addressed,
the actual term made use of is relatively unim-
portant, unless for historical purposes. Never-

theless, much confusion will he avoided if some
sort of agreement can be come to, and hence,
while we object to certain details, we wel-
come the efforts made by the Royal Hor-
ticultural Society (the second edition of whose
Unlis for Judging has just been published)
and other bodies to give precision to certain
terms for the guidance of judges and others.

Some schedule makers and many gardeners
are great offenders in the way of nomenclature ;
and some judges, from whom we look for
accuracy, are no better. In the Bides for
Judging, even, we find such expressions as the
" Brassica tribe," and that " all natural genera
are kinds, and all variations within a genus are
varieties. Peaches and Nectarines, and the
Cabbage tribe are notable exceptions to this ;
black and white Grapes are also for exhibition
allowed as distinct kinds." We are expressly
told that these pronouncements are arbitrary,
and devised for exhibition purposes, else we
might have protested against a method of
grouping which excludes species altogether, and
is in itself very confusing to those who are
accustomed to the ordinary rules of botanical
classification. What must it be to those un-
trained in the work of defining and mar-
shalling groups of facts and phenomena ?
Orders, families, genera, species, sections,
tribes, varieties, kinds, sorts, and so forth, are
treated in ordinary language, as if they were
of equal value and legitimately interchangeable
— we have daily experience of this. It is as if
we confused continents, islands, archipelagos,
countries, provinces, peninsulas, counties, and
parishes, and took one for the other indis-
criminately ; or, as if we attached the same
meaning to army-corps, brigades, regiments,
squadrons, companies, and so forth.

It is curious that whilst the absurdity in
these cases is apparent to everyone, in the
divisions of the animal and vegetable kingdoms
it is otherwise. This may, perhaps, arise from
the difficulty or impossibility of framing a precise
definition of the word "species." Could we have
a fixed unit as a starting point, its divisions and
multiples could be made definite also. But in
natural productions there is no fixity, but only
a relative degree of constancy. A "species"
we may take to include all those individual
plants which had a common origin from the
same original parents. But who is to prove
that this was the case? Who can be infallible
in such a matter? Not even the youngest of
us! As Asa Gray said, species are "judg-
ments." The wider and deeper the knowledge
of the judge, the more deference we pay to his
judgment.

Illustrations, in this case, are better than
definitions. Here, then, is one : the Grape-vine,
which botanists know as Vitis vinifera, is a
species ; it is the species "vinifera" of the genus
Vitis. It happens to be the only European
species, and therefore confusion is not likely to
occur. But there are numerous American
species such as Yitis Labrusca, &c. , very much
like, but amply differing from the European
species : consequently the American Vines and
the European Vines are placed in one genus
called Vitis. In like manner there are other
genera nearly allied to Vitis, but differing
f re mi it, such are Cissus, Ampelopsis, Leea, &c.
These genera in their turn are combined into
one natural order, the Vitacese, all the members
of which are allied one to the other by ties of
blood-relationship, so that, starting with species,
we have progressively higher and more compre-
hensive groups of genera, orders, sub-classes,
classes, and so on.

It is, however, with the lower groups, the
sub-divisions of a species, that gardeners are
most concerned, and here it is that the trouble
with such vaguely-defined words as "kinds,"
" sorts," and " varieties" comes in.

A species consists of an infinite number of
individual plants, which all had, or, from their
great resemblance and the circumstance that
their characteristics are generally, but not
invariably, reproduced in their offspring, are
assumed to have had, a common origin.
But when we come to scan the individuals
comprising the species, we find consider-
able variation among them, just as there is
in a family of human beings, the offspring of
the same parents. And thus we get various
degrees or grades of variation, which botanists
note as sub-species, varieties, variations, forms,
and so on in descending order, each group less
comprehensive than its predecessor.

Take the case of the Grape-vine again : Vitis
vinifera varies greatly, but we do not think
that the variation is sufficiently important to
justify the formation of a sub-species, but
that is a matter of opinion. Of varieties
there are two principal ones, those with
black and those with white berries respec-
tively, and of each of these there are innumer-
able minor variations — Black Hamburghs,
Alicantes, Gros Colman, Muscat, and so forth.
This subdivision is intelligible to any botanist,
and is in conformity with the rules accepted by
the Paris Botanical Congress, presided over by
the late Azphonse de Canpolle.

Now, what place shall we give to the word
" kind ] " Where does it come in, in the above
grouping? We have certain rules for judging
before us, and we find, as usual, con-
siderable variation even in this matter. The
significance attached to the same word by
the late Mr. M. Dunn in the last communica-
tion he ever wrote to us only a day or two
before his death (see Gardeners' Chronicle,
May 20, LS99, p. 320), is at variance with that
adopted by the Royal Horticultural Society.
For our own parts we should, for garden pur-
poses, affix the word "kind " or "sort " to any
group below specific rank, which is nevertheless
sufficiently distinct to enable us to apply a
name to it ; thus, we should call Black Ham-
burgh a kind, Alicante another kind of Grape,
and so on ; just as in the case of Roses, wu
should esteem General Jacqueminot to be a
kind, and Souvenir de la Malmaison to be
another kind ; or, in the case of clogs, retrievers,
pugs, terriers, collies, bull-dogs, would all be
"kinds" of dogs. If this be admitted, the
word "kind" would be the equivalent in the
hierarchy of botanical rank with "variation."
The grading would thus be : —
Species.

Sub-species ( = race, strain).
Varieties.

Variations (kinds, or sorts).
Forms.
The term "form" applying to transitory varia-
tions of minimum degree. Other people would
prefer to consider "kind" as the equivalent
of species, and the Royal Horticultural Society
rules make it the equivalent of a " natural
genus."

That this, or any other arrangement, will
satisfy all people is more than can be expected ;
but if flower-show societies put forth their
own definitions and interpretations, the least
that exhibitors and judges can do is to conform
to them loyally at the time, and to endeavour,
if necessary, to amend them on another
occasion. . s

June 17, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

397

. Pyrus CORONARIA, fl.-pl. (fig. 145). —The
:type species with large, delicate, rose-coloured
flowers, is one of the latest of the ornamental Pears
to produce its flowers. The flowers and the long-
keeping fruits, of the size of a Greengage Plum,
emit a delicious odour of violets, which can be

LlNNEAN SOCIETY.— June 1, 1899. Dr. A.
Guntiier, F.R.S., President, in the Chair. Mr.
W. B.' Hkmsley, F.R.S., F.LS., exhibited a
selection of High-level Plants from the collections
formerly made by Sir Joseph Hooker, Dr. Thom-
son, General Sir R. Stracuev, and more recently

woolly covering of others, and the general pre-
ponderance of the natural order Composite. On
behalf of Mr. P. N. Williams, F.S.L., the Secre-
tary read a paper on some Caryophyllacea? from
Sze-chuen, with a note On the recent Botanical
exploration of that province.

Fig. 145. — rvurs coronaria, floke-pleno (bechtel) : colour of the flowers delicate rose.

detected at a considerable distance. Bechtel's
variety, P. cojonaria, flore-pleno, flowers, as does
the type, whilst completely clothed with leaves, and
possesses large, double rose-like, fragrant blossoms,
which render it one of the most beautiful spring
flowering trees known to us. We are indebted to
the kindness of Mr. Gumbleton, Belgrove,
Queenstown, for the material from which our
artist prepared the woodcut.

by Capt. Welby, Mr. aud Mrs. Litti.edale, and
Mr. Arnold Pike in Northern India, Thibet, and
Mongolia, many of them from altitudes of 18,000 to
19,200 feet. A selection was also shown from the
collections made in the Andes by Sir Martin
Conway, Mr. Fitzgerald, Mr. Gosse, aud
Mr. Whymper, at various altitudes up to 18,500
feet. The principal points referred to were the
small size of many of the plants, the protective

The Dinner of the Royal Horticultural
SOCIETY. — A large number of distinguished for-
eigners will be present at the Hybridisation Con-
ference, and it is hoped that a large body of the
Fellows will assemble to do them honour at the
meetings and at the dinner on July 12, at the
Hotel Metropole. The hospitality shown to our
countrymen abroad is a powerful inducement to us
to do what we can on this occasion to reciprocate

398

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE.

[June 17, 1899.

the kindness. Intending diners should communi-
cate at once with the Secretary, Royal Horticul-
tural Society, 11", Victoria Street, Westminster.

"Botanical Magazine."— The plates in the
June number are devoted to the illustration of the
following plants : —

Begonia venosa, Skau ; t. 7657. This is the
species introduced by Mr. Christy, and exhibited
by him at one of the exhibitions of the Royal
Horticultural Society. It is remarkable for its
leaves covered with silvery hairs, and for its large
stipules, with marked reticulate venation.

Morcea av.lph.urea, Baker. A small species with
linear leaves, and small terminal yellow flowers.
It is a native of the Cape ; t. 7658.

Kb inia pendula, D.C. ; t. 7659. A species with
tortuous fieshy stems, minute leaves, and terminal
heads of crimson flowers. Native of Somaliland.

Chrysanthemum nipponicum, Watson, in Gar-
deners' Chronicle, 1897, vol. i., p. 46, and in 189S,
vol. ii., p. 348, f. 104 ; t. 7660.

Iris Delacayi, Micheli ; t. 7661. A native of
Vunnan. The "falls" are purple, with white
blotches.

Kenfield, CANTERBURY.— The extensive col-
lection of Conifers which was formed by the late
Mr. R. E. Thomson, and planted some fifty years ago
under the direction of the late Alderman Masters,
of Canterbury, is probably the best and most varied
in the county of Kent. Fine examples of Sequoia
(Wellingtonia), Abies Mertensiana, A. firma, A.
Alcockiana, the rare Piceas bracteata, amabilis,
nobilis, concolor, &c, being represented by large
specimens. Up to the time of Mr. Thomson's
death, novelties were constantly being added to
the collection. The earlier introductions of Japan
Maples were very conspicuous. During the absence
of the present owner in India, the pinetum became
much overgrown, and the work of opening out the
best and rarest trees has been entrusted to Mr.
George Bi'NYArd, of the Nurseries, Maidstone.

National Dahlia Society.— The committee

of the above Society have made arrangements to
hold a meeting at the Royal Aquarium, Westmin-
ster, on Tuesday, September 19, for the purpose of
affording an additional opportunity for the exhibi-
tion of seedling Dahlias, and for the awarding of
the Society's First-class Certificate to such of the
new varieties exhibited as the committee may
consider worthy. In order to give additional
interest to this meeting, it is thought desirable to
offer prizes in a few competitive classes, and con-
tributions for this purpose are solicited. The Hon.
Secretary is Mr. J. F. Hudson, Gunnersbury
House, Acton.

The Horticultural College, Swanley.—
The Governing Body have pleasure in announcing
that the Rose garden, whick has been laid out
under the superintendence of the Very Rev. The
Dean of Rochester, who has promised to be
present, will be opened by the Viscountess Fal-
mouth, on Thursday, June 29, at 3 p.m., when
the college, grounds, and house of residence for
women students will be open for inspection.

Flowers in Season.— Among some of the

showiest, as a filling for flower-glasses, &c, are
the flowers of the hardy Chrysanthemum maxi-
mum. The flowers are very large, and they are
terminal on long stalks, and have pure white
rays and a yellow disk ; and the plant growing in
gardens to a height of 0 feet, it forms an admirable
back-row plant in a border of herbaceous peren-
nials, or for dotting in the shrubbery. Mr. John
Davis, of Hoylake, Cheshire, who sends the blooms,
informs us that the plant has been in flower siuce
May 22, although geuerally the season in that part
ot the country is three weeks later than the
average.

Dr. Gunther Ritter Beck von Manna-
QETTA has been appointed Professor of Botany in
the German University of Prague.

STOCK-TAKING : MAY.— The delay experienced
in the issue of the Trade and Navigation Returns
for the month of May is amply condoned by the
work recorded — by the increase of imports from all
parts of the world, and the enhanced value of the
exports thereto. The value of the May imports
was £40,876,828, against £37,706,378 for May,
189S, a gain of £3, 170,450. This gain extends over
nearly all sections of the returns. In the food im-
ports we find Wheat increased by 436,850 cwt. ,
but the value decreased by £1,033,706. It may
appear strange to "the foreigner," but the value of
the 4-lb. loaf does not show a very downward
tendency. Barley has given way, but Oats increased
in quantity by 443,470 cwt, and £104,737 ; eggs
went up by £69,071 ; butter, £194,596 ; rice rose
£280,085 ; sugar of all descriptions increased by
£152,530 ; hams and bacon fell off both in quantity
and value ; whilst cheese showed an increase repre-
sented by £78,245. In dutiable articles tea shows
an enhanced import, the value rising by £109,021 ;
coffee decreased in value ; cocoa increased by
£52,435 ; wine dropped £6S,694. With the excep-
tion of rum, all spirits show an enhanced value.
But here we may fitly give our usual condensed
summary of imports, as follows : —

Imports.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

£

£

£

Total value

37,706,378

40,876,828

•) 3,170,450

(A.) Articles of food
and driuk — duty
free

14,420,133

14,395,8"4

—24,299

(B.) Articles of fcnd
& drink — dutiable

1,987,312

2,078,099

H 90,757

Raw materials for
textile manufac.
tures

5,406,415

5,537,567

+ 131,152

Raw materials for
sundry industries
and manufactures

3,609,859

4,435,092

-1 825,233

(A.) Miscellaneous
articles

1,008,643

1,186,984

+ 17S.341

(B.) Parcel Post ...

110,127

87,187

—22,940

We should note that metals show an increase of
£822,716 ; of this copper stands for £259,684, the
quantity-column shows but little increase ; the
American ring is responsible for the rest. Of
course, tin shows an increased value — £160,729;
nil represents alteration in quantity as compared
with May, 1898. Oils have gone up £204,054, the
figures for petroleum showing an increase of
£116.773— representing 7,053,786 gallons. In raw
materials for textiles, cotton, Flax, silk, all show
a reduction ; whilst Hemp, Jute, wool show a rise.
Iu other raw materials, a rise of £825,233 is shown ;
caoutchouc weut up £185,124; gums, £32,797;
wood and timber show a rise of £178,087 ; Clover
and Grass-seeds have gone back, Flax or Linseed
and Rape went up. The section relating to fruits,
roots, and vegetables is, as usual, very interesting ;
our extracts are as under :—

Imports.

1898.

1899.

Difference.

Fruits, raw :—

Apples ...

. bush.

97,400

127,422

430,022

Cherries...

>,

10,385

33,751

+ 23,366

Grapes ...

>,

3,228

2,981

-247

Lemons ...

,,

150,593

164,219

+ 13,626

Oranges...

,,

208,270

933,223

+ 724,953

Pears

,,

496

1,305

+ 809

Plums ...

M

91

408

+ 317

Unenuinerated.

II

88,573

127,:;62

+■38,769

Onions

„

352,399

660,407

+308,068

Potatos

cwt.

1,055,256

1,014,081

—40,575

Vegetables, raw,
merated...

unenu-

. value

£130,513

£136,600

+£'•,'187

Oranges seemed to "run over" from the vicinity of
the Monument into every court and alley in the
metropolis, "specks" being plentiful enough to
sell at six for 1</., and in proportion increased the
danger to life aud limb in the public streets. To
close with the imports, it is satisfactory to record
an increase on the five months amounting to

£1,416,346 ; the figures for the past month being
£198,403,349, as against £196,987,003 in May of
last year. We pas6 now to a brief note on the

Exports.
The increase here is £5,138,886, thus gained:
the total for the month is £23,030,240 ; for May,
1898, £17,891,354, something like a rise. This is
obtained, in part, as follows : new ships, not
registered as British, foot up a* £1,974,9S2 ; coal,
coke, and fuel, £6S9,544 ; metals and articles
manufactured therefrom, except machinery and
ships, £844,810 ; machinery and mill-work,
£218,617 ; raw materials, £724,342; yarn and
textile fabrics advanced by £629,269. Here we
may note that cotton piece goods rose £384,015 ;
America taking largely, as also in the case of
linens, which record again £56,933 ; all other
articles, either manufactured or partly manufac-
tured, have increased some £353,082, and here
are included railway rolling stock, india-rubber
goods, products of coal, £22,650; wool, in various
conditions, £04,779 ; live animals were sent out to
the value of £7,476 ; articles of food and drink,
£34,979. But enough of the tale has been told to
account for the increased activity in the British
workshop and factory. The increase on the five
months is placed at £11,447,244, the value for the
five months just ended being £104,541,727, against
£93,094,483 set against the corresponding term in
1S98. To illustrate the thoroughness of our trade
in the East, we make a note respecting the Chinese
imports and exports. These are valued at
370,655,538 taels, to which the British domiuions
contribute 233,960,730 taels— over 60 per cent. As
to the carrying trade of the Chinese Empire under
foreign flags, Great Britain furnishes 8IP74 per
cent. ; Germany, 7'28 per cent. ; Russia, 0'81 per
cent. These facts are worth remembering when
discussion turns upou our position in that part of
the globe.

" Hardy Fruits for the Midland Coun-
ties."—We have received a copy of Mr. A. H.
Pearson's excellent paper on Hardy Fruits for the
Midland Counties, which is now in its third edition.
The information given was first published by the
Nottinghamshire Horticultural Society in 1S84, and
has since been added to and brought up to date.
Mr. Pearsox may be said to have successfully
accomplished his undertaking, which was, "not to
make a book, but rather to sum up as concisely as
possible a few of the facts upon the subject in hand
gathered during thirty years of work amongst fruit
and fruit trees."

Defrauding the Charitable. — Messrs.
Hurst & Son, seed merchants, write as follows : —
" In February last we received a piteous appeal
from Mr. Wm. Gadsby, of 37, Denman Street,
Leicester, on behalf of H. W. Parker (formerly of
Huntingdon), seedsman's shopman, who, with his
wife and family, were represented to be in most
distressed circumstances, aud on February 6 we re-
mitted 20*. On February 13, upon a further appeal,
we remitted Mr. Gadsby an additional 20s. On
May 14, Charlotte Parker advised us her
brother, Henry Parker, had died that morning,
after a great deal of suffering, leaving a wife (near
her confinement), with several children, and with-
out the means of paying for the funeral, and on
May 16 a further remittance of 20s. was made, and
acknowledged by C. Parker on May IS. We are
now assured that Wm. Gadsby and H. W. Parker
are one and the same individual, and that the man
H. W. Parker is still living. We regret that we
have been victimised by such false pretences, and
with the object of preventing others becoming
victims, ask you to kindly give publicity to this
letter in your journal.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Begonia, crested form, Revue Horticoh, June 1.
Catananchi; kerulea, Garden^ Ma&' 27.
Countess de TYrennk, hybrid Teri Rose (liernai.N), colour
pink, Uosai Zeitung, May, 1S90.

June 17, 1S99.]

THE GARDENERS1 CHRONICLE.

399

CEDRUS DEODARA NIVEA.

We owe to the kindness of the Earl of Annesley
the following note, accompanied by a photograph,
relating to Cedrus Deodara nivea (fig. 146):—
" Cedrus Deodara nivea is very beautiful now, being
nearly as white as its name applies. We have in
the gardens here another Deodar, known as albo-
spica, the young foliage of which comes out green,
and only turns whU* as it completes its growth."
Annesley.

Notices of Books.

Facts for Fruit growers and other
Horticulturists.
In the Agricultural Year-Book of the United
Stui' t Govi rnmciit, which has just reached us, are

allows, brings about untold injuries, but he strongly
brings out the errors of going to the opposite
extreme, and of not pruning at all. To go into
more detail, judicious thinning and arrest of unruly
and misplaced shoots are to be commended, while
making it part of the annual routine to visit an
orchard to saw off branches and tops of shoots,
without a special object in view, will soon dimiuish
the crop of fruit.

When discussing the season for pruning, it is
pointed out in the paper that when the operation
is conducted in the early autumn, additional vigour
is given to the brauches retained. The reason
advanced does not seem to be quite so accurate as
the fact, according to the generally accepted ideas
of the physiology of deciduous trees. It is stated
that the improvement is due to the trees con-
tinuing "to absorb nutriment by their roots"
during the winter. It is hardly necessary to recall

Fig. 146. — lord annesley's cedrus deodara, orowing at castleweulan, co. down.

some papers which are of considerable interest to
the horticulturist generally. Such contributions
as the one on insects which attack the tobacco-
plant do not bear very much upon plant-culture in
this country, but the article on the " Pruning of
trees and other Plants," by William Saunders,
contains many valuable observations. A few lines
at the beginning, which strike as it were a note of
warning, may very well be quoted : — " Plants left
to Nature maintain a reciprocal action between
the branches and the roots, and every branch and
leaf removed must exert an influence either in-
jurious or beneficial ; therefore no one should
remove a branch uutil satisfied of a reason for
doing so, and foreseeing the influence and effects of
such removal."

Mr. Saunders goes on to say that many fruit-
growers think that most uniform and satisfactory
crops are produced when little or no pruning is
resorted to. Vicious and unnecessary pruning, he

the fact that it is the leaves that make the reserve
food, taking carbon from the air, and utilising
materials sent up by the roots. In winter these
manufacturers are gone, and the How of water from
root to leaf has ceased. Even allowing, for argu-
ment sake, that the sap still rises into the bare
stems, the earth, salts and water of which it is
composed, would not be such " nutriment " as would
increase the vigour of the branches.

A better explanation would appear to be that
the legacy of food stored in the older branches has
to be divided among a smaller family of younger
ones, which it must be said is practically what Mr.
Saunders maintains in the case of buds.

The "flow of sap," or perhaps here it would be
better to say the supply of food, is always directed
towards the tips of branches, and an accumulation
takes place before the winter with the result that
terminal buds are the larger ones. The same thing
happens in spring with regard to the ends of shoots,

and it is pointed out that accumulated food is lost
by spring pruning. Perhaps, however, the idea
that additions are sent up from the roots in winter
may have led to the emphasising of the objection
to the previously mentioned prooess.

Some advice based upon forty years' experience
is given us as to the necessity of promptly removing
immature wood that the frost may have killed, as
this, it is said, is a common source of disease to
fruit-trees.

Next, Mr. Saunders sets up the line, which
runs : — " Prune in summer for fruit, and in winter
for wood ; " and proceeds to make an Aunt Sally of
it. After considering the principle that checking
growth induces the formation of flowers, upon
which the first piece of the supposed good advice
depends, he points out its uncertain application in
the case of summer pruning, and gives a noteworthy
example.

" If the growing shoots of an Apple or Pear tree
are checked on their extension by removing a
portion of their points, say, toward the latter part
of June, the lower buds on the shoots will be forced
into growth, thus forming numerous side branches,
which have no immediate connection with fruiting-
spurs, and which simply tend to a further thicket
of twigs for removal iu winter. But if the shoots
are not checked in their extension until August,
aud the weather afterwards continues to be warm
and dry, the probabilities are that the lower buds
on these shoots will start into rather feeble side-
growth, or short, spur like shoots, which will
ultimately furnish fruiting-buds. If. on the other
hand, the season happens to be wet, and mild
weather prevails until close to winter, these same
side-shoots will lengthen into slender twigs, which
will not thoroughly mature, aud which will be of
no use whatever. The difficulty in reaching suc-
cessful results lies in the uncertainty as to the
proper time to prune, because no two seasons are
exactly alike, and also because trees vary in their
vigour from year to year. Vet upon this uncertain,
indefinite, and constantly experimental procedure
is founded the advice, ' Prune in summer for
fruit." "

Of the second half of the rule, short work is
made. Mr. Saunders cannot question, of course,
that additional vigour is given to fewer buds that
remain after winter-pruning, but he very much
doubts whether a greater aggregate of wood
results, and concludes that to consider that
winter-pruning as a practical rule increases the
quantity of timber is a fallacy.

Perhaps the most important point in the article is
the favour with which the writer of it regards
"pinching" aud "disbudding." He says that
these are the most rational modes of directing the
growth of plants, and if rigidly practised, they
would do away with the necessity for the removal
of branches of any size at any time. The inconsis-
tency of allowing a tree to produce wood in summer,
only to have it removed in winter, is brought
forcibly before us. The balance of growth, which
it is so important not to disturb, remains unaltered,
and there is much less labour required to rub off a
bud in spring than to cut off a branch in autumn.

After this, we are given hints as to the pruning
of roots, and the necessary curtailing of branches at
the time of transplanting, as well as instructions
for training a hedge. Even the pruning of street
trees comes in for attention, and the ideal shape for
withstanding sudden bursts of wind is discussed.
This is naturally acquired by very few deciduous
trees, aud is practically that of a Fir, with central
stem and leading shoots. Training for positions in
the streets should be begun early in the nursery.

Finally, details are entered into with regard to
special cases of interest to the fruit-grower. Par-
ticular instructions are forthcoming in connection
with the culture of the Vine, the method advised
being one on which a new leading shoot is taken
up annually from the base of the plant, and tho
old canes removed when they have seen three or
four years' service.

Another contributor, Mr. M. B. Waite, gives

400

THE GABDENEBS' CHBONICLE.

[Junk 17, 1899.

the result of researches upon the "Pollination of
Pomaceous Fruits." It is found that, as is common
with other plants, the Apple and Pear have a
strong tendency to self-sterility, which means that
pollen from one flower does not readily "set"
another when both are situated upon the same tree ;
as also specimens of the same horticultural varia-
tion are formed from grafts that originally came
from a single tree, and are practically one plant,
the same remarks apply. On the other hand,,
distinct varieties that can be traced back to
different seeds cross freely.

The size and shape of fruit following such cross-
fertilisation are found to be greatly improved,
whereas self-pollinated Pears are practically seed-
less, and of small proportions.

It must, however, be borne in mind that the
sterility is dependent somewhat upon climate,
weather, and condition of the trees, but even where
varieties are usually self-fertile, the largest fruits
are obtained by cross-pollination. Apples are even
more markedly self-sterile than Pears, whereas
Quinces do not follow this rule at all.

To ensure cross-fertilisation in orchards, the
following suggestions are made : —

1. Several varieties should be used, and even if
one kind is desired, every third tree in every third
or fourth row should be of a different one.

2. When large series of trees have blossomed
well for several years and have failed to produce a
crop of fruit without any apparent reason, graft iu
some other varieties.

3. Be sure that plenty of bees are in the neigh-
bourhood, or at least within two or three miles, and
endeavour to favour them by selecting sheltered
situations, and erecting wind-breaks.

Other information, useful to the fruit-grower, is
to be gained from an article upon " Utilisiug
Surplus Fruits," while much suggestive and read-
able-matter for gardeners is included under such
titles as " Birds as Weed Destroyers," " Insects
Injurious to Peas and Beaus," and '( Improvement
o'. Plants by Selection," not to mention "Grass-seed
and its Impurities," and several others dealing
with soils. Wilfred Mark Webb.

The Flora of Cheshire.— By the late Lord de

Tabley. Edited by Spencer Moore, with a bio-
graphical notice of the author by Sir Mount-
stuart Grant Duff (Longmans).
Botanists had long to wait for the Flora of Kent,
which we noticed in a recent issue, and a similar
exercise of patience has been imposed upon them
iu the case of the Cheshire Flora. Those who
knew the accomplished author of the last-named
work will experience no surprise at the delay in
publication. Rather will they feel their obligations
to Lady Leighton, to whose pious care it is that we
owe this valuable addition to the botanical history
of our country. This lady, in arrangiug her
brother's papers, lighted on two MSS. relating to
the Cheshire flora, of which the latest in date,
completed some twenty-five years since, forms the
substance of the present volume. The editorship
has been entrusted to Mr. Spencer Moore, and
carefully and well has he executed his trust.

The biographical notice supplied by Sir Mount-
stuart Grant Duff is a charming piece of writing,
and the introduction of some of Mr. Warreu's
poetry, is a delightful innovation in a technical
flora. Let us hasten to say, it is only tolerable
when as good in quality as the samples here pro-
vided. For the Hon. Leicester Warren, to use
the name by which he was best known, was a poet
by nature, and a roan of culture and wide sym-
pathies. "Studies in verse," novels, treatises on
book-plates and on Greek coinage give evidence of
this.

In botany he was not attracted by the merely
sensuous side of the subject, for Brambles and
Docks were two of the genera that he most
affected, and no inconsiderable amount of enthu-
siasm must be expended to study these plants as
Warren did.

A short account is given of the county of
Cheshire, and of the districts into which it may be
divided from a botanical point of view. To
estimate the value of this necessitates a personal
acquaintance with the county. In the list of
"Persons concerned in the past with Cheshire
Botany," we find the name of Henry Shepherd,
the curator of the Liverpool Botanic Garden, and
the first in this country to raise Ferns from their
spores. More recent contributors to the Cheshire
Flora are E. M. Baillie, C. Wolley Dod, Leo
Grindon, and many others. The Flora itself is
enriched with numerous notes, so that the volume
will not only be indispensable to Cheshire botanists,
but a valuable book of reference to those concerned
with British plants in general. A map and a good
index render it all the more serviceable.

Home Correspondence.

LEEKS. — One of the things I have found out
here is that the Welshmen in this primitive place
do not regard the Leek as a national plant. It
certainly is not usually grown in gardens, and I
have seen it grown properly only in one garden
— where the head gardener is an Englishman.
E. W. B., Clynnog.

THE PARADISE STOCK. — Your correspondent,
" D. T. F.," seems to assume that the employment
of the Paradise stock is of quite recent origin.
Certainly, even in the '50's, not much was heard
about it iu gardens ; but old John Rogers, whose
Fruit Cultivator is one of the best of the old fruit
books, refers to the Paradise stock as being in com-
mon use some time anterior to the date of publica-
tion, viz., 1S34, and that was sixty-five years ago.
Referring to thisstock, he says: — " By all accounts,
it is of Dutch origin, but first found its way into
England through travel." It has, however, been
loug ago proved by Mr. Grey, of the Fulham nur-
sery, that the French is inferior to the Dutch
Paradise stock, especially for espaliers. That the
French Paradise stock is a more than dwarfing
stock — that ;s, a cramping and almost a strangling
stock, we have long known. It therefore seems
evident that the stock then described as the Dutch
Paradise is identical with that now known, and so
abundantly used, as the English or broad-leaved
Paradise. The author mentions that these stocks
cau be obtained from abroad (as now) with great
facility ; also that tbey do best on a somewhat
moist rather than a dry soil. Of the long list of
varieties of Apples given in the book, many of
which have gone out of cultivation, several are
recommended as best suited for diverse forms of
culture, when worked on the Paradise stock. All
this goes to show that its employment in nurseries
must have been well known and common, doubt-
less, from 75 to SO years since. Our horticultural
records are, iu these matters, uoue too clear, as then
we had no regular horticultural press. Now it is but
needful for the horticultural historian to' turn up
the columns of the Gardeners' Chronicle, or its con-
temporaries, and information on almost everything
will be found. A. D.

ELOHOCARPUS CYANEUS.— The pleasing, small,
pure white, bell shaped, deeply fringed flowers of
this Australian shrub are produced in racemes that
arise iu the axils of the leaves. The flowers are
succeeded by blue-coloured berries about the size of
those of the Sloe. In its native country it grows to
a height of 15 feet, and in this country it forms an
excellent subject for planting in borders in large
conservatories. A plant is now in flower here at
the Botanic Gardens, Liverpool. J. <!.

ADVERTISEMENTS.— In the Gardeners' Chronicle
of .Tune 10, there is an advertisement : " Wanted,
a head gardener for a large garden, with a man
and a boy under him." And I assume from the
amount of assistance given, that he has about
three acres of garden ground, with or without a
cow, and I should hope not much glass. He
wants a hard worker, which most gardeners
have to be ; but the sting is at the end of his
advertisement, where he says that he does not
want a suburban or southern counties gardener.
I think, that had he said he wanted an honest I iod-
fearing man, who knew his business, he would have
got what he wanted, aud concealed his ignorance.

Southern counties is a comprehensive word, and
our Scotch friends "comedown south" to get the
finishing touch to their education, and we are
pleased to see them, and moreover in the southern
counties horticulture is more advauced than iu any
part of the world. The day of parochialism is over,
north-south-east and west are amalgamated. We
are all members of one great Empire, all necessary
with our respective good and bad qualities alike,
for the maintenance of our common heritage, so
that any comparisons shows a waut of comprehen-
sion of things as they now exist. It. M., Newbury.

MILDEW ON VINES. — Respecting the discussion
on the subject of destroying mildew on Vines, I
should have some hesitation iu using boiling-water
on Vines in the early stage of their growth,
although I have no reason to doubt Mr. Mallett's
statement. My experience of the use of hot water
as an insecticide is. that it is quite safe to syringe with
at about 130° in the destruction of all insects, but
not beyond ; as, having tested it at that degree of
heat on forced Roses they came out all right. In
using water at 150° to 160° I found that all the
young growths aud tender foliage turned black. I
would not advise even water at 13o° to be used on
tender greenhouse plants or Ferns, but rather a
few degrees less, which will be found equally
effective, and not injurious to the plants. The
following, a simple recipe, I have found an un-
failing remedy for mildew on Roses in pots, aud it
w-ould most likely be equally as efficient on Vines,
and that without any injury accruiug to the foliage.
Mix thoroughly 1 lb. of sulphur vivum or black
sulphur with 1 lb. of soft-soap, and when thoroughly
dissolved paint the hot-water pipes with the mix-
ture, and 1 guarantee every vestige of mildew will
disappear after two or three applications, and
prove far more effective than a good many of the
remedies for mildew now on the market. J. J>.
Godwin,

In reply to " It. M." in last week's issue < f

the Gardeners' Chronicle, p. 3S3, I may state that
the Grapes were in two stages when the hot- water
remedy was applied ; those iu one house were about
the size of Marrowfat Peas, those iu the other were
smaller, scarcely larger than seeds of Sweet Peas.
Geo. B. Mcdlett.

RHUBARB AS SPINACH. — The Gardners'
Chronicle for May 27 is at hand this morning, and
the note on "Rhubarb Leaves as a Vegetable,"
prompts me to say to you that instances have been
known here where their use as "Greens" has
caused fatal results, owing to the excess of oxalic
acid. A horticultural friend told me many years
ago that he had raised many seedlings, some of
which (I assume that the usual part was cooked iu
the usual way), caused vomiting as certaiuly as
ipecacuanha. Robert Manning, Sec, Mass. llort. S «■

A QUESTION. — Thinking of a few of some of the
garden plauts of fifty years ago, that were more
worthy of our attention than those grown nowa-
days, but which seem lost to gardens and unknown
on enquiry of the trade, where is the old double
black-flowered Delphinium, just the colour of the
black Hyacinth ? Where also are the old double
Wallflowers, brown, ginger, black, purple, and
yellow coloured? They have not been seen by me
for many years. The beautiful yellow Violet, not
the plant called now Pansy-like, but the shape of
an ordinary Violet, sent out by the late Mr. .1.
Veitch about forty-five years ago. Where also are
the Hyacinths double purple-green tips, double
red-green tips, and double white-green tips? I
never see them offered by anyone in the trade now.
I used to grow them : the red and the white I
used to obtain of the late Mr. John Sutton. A
few days ago that and the purple of the Rev. J.
Tyso, aud many other thiugs too numerous to name
just now from memory. Also the "Midsummer
Men and Maidens" [Sedum Telephium, a common
plant. Ei>.]. I believe it produces milk [No], like
an Euphorbia, but I have never been able to get it.
J. C.

TEMPERANCE DRINKS FOR THE HARVEST
FIELD. — The Church of England Temperance
Society has, for some time, been endeavouring to
popularise the use of cheap, easily-made drinks for
use in the harvest-field, hop-garden, workshop,
aud laundry. For this purpose the executive ha,
taken StallNo. 59 at the Royal Agricultural Shows
Maid- tunc, from June 17 to 23, and at the South
Eastern Show, Tunbridge Wells, from July 1!) to
21. Here we hope to make simple drinks suitable

Jpne 1?, 1899.]

THE GARDE NEBS' CHRONICLE.

401

for the table, the field, or the workshop, and to
give recipes aud samples to visitors. We do not
claim to be able to revolutionise oar drinking
customs by this means, but we do claim to show
how thirst-quenching, nourishing, and exceedingly
palatable beverages may be made with little more
trouble than tea or colfee, at an expenditure o£ 2d.
to Ad. per gallon, and from articles easily obtain-
able. May we, through your columns, invite your
readers to call at our stall to see and taste for
themselves, or to write to me for the recipes which
we shall be most happy to send '! Q&orge B. Churl* 9,
( Clerical Si cretary, Canterbury Diocesan, 0. E. T. S. ,
94, Oakfield Road, Croydon, June 10.

KILLING AMERICAN BLIGHT, ETC., BY FIRE.—
I should feel pleased if you would make known iu
your valuable Gardener"' Chronicle, the means I
have adopted to destroy, not only the American-
blight, but also their eggs, however numerous they
may be, without in the least injuring the Apple-
trees. About forty years ago I planted several
Blenheim Apple-trees, and since that time several
young ones of the same sort, on all of which these
pests have been gaining ground : aud although I
have tried all the means 1 could hear of, or read
of, I could only check their ravages for a time. The
trees nave been sadly disfigured, and some branches
literally killed. But a week ago I thought of some
new plan (to me), most easy; although hot and
severe, it was perfectly powerful to exterminate
them. I hired a painter's lamp for 3d. only,
charged it with benzoline (2d. per pint), and when
lighted, having the flame reduced to a minimum by
the screw. 1 had simply to direct the flame about
'.'> iuches distant from the nests of the blight ; in a
second the woolly appearance melted away, aud
the creatures fell to the ground dead and dried up,
also the eggs destroyed. The heat was only for an
instant, so that the trees, and even the small
twigs, were perfectly safe. I am very glad to
name this for the benefit of all growers of these
splendid Apples. Win. Moody Bell.

cannot so far find this variety in any list under
this name, but those who grow zonal Pelargoniums
for decorative purposes will do well to add it to
their collections. B. D.

Continental Novelties,

E03E MADAME WAGEAM C0MTE3SE DE
TUEENNE.

This is a novelty raised by M. Bernaix iu 1S9J,
and ranked by him as a' Tea Rose, although iu
describing it he says it is "a big Tea Rose with
H. P. blood in it." It is certainly a large Rose, of
globular shape, very double, aud with broad petals.
The flower-bud is egg-shaped, has great substance,
and surmounts an erect still" stalk. The bloom has
a certain resemblance to Merveille de Lyon, and
measures from 41 to 5£ inches in diameter, opens
freely, and keeps a long time in good condition as
well on the plant as when cut. The colour is a
fresh, silky salmon-pink, changing to flesh-pink and
china rose, with a silvery tinge over the entire
flower, aud the edges of the petals appear white.

The plant is very vigorous, bushy in habit, but
not compact, and possesses more of the character of a
hybrid Tea thau of a Tea Rose. The name will have
to be shortened to Madame Wagram, being alto-
gether too long for present day use. The novelty
is a good Rose for exhibiting, and for the florist's
work ; but before the public will take to it, it must
like other novelties be frequently exhibited. A
ooloured plate of the variety appears iu the May
issue of the Rosen-Zeiltu \i.

Double Zonal Pelargonium Gloire de
France.

This is probably one of M. Victor Lemoine's
raising, and is certainly one of the most attractive
decorative varieties I have seen. The central
colour is bright orange- carmiue, and the well-
formed petals are distinctly edged with white. It
is of a shade of colour that appears to be very
popular in these days, and Mr. Arthur Turner,
who called my attention'to it at the Royal Nursery,
Slough, said they had used this variety largely for
decorative purposes both at Ascot and Windsor.
The trusses, borue well above the foliage, are large
aud symmetrical, and the leaves darkly zonate. I

New Inventions.

We have received a sample of several very simple
devices for rendering more convenient the work of
securing plants to stakes and to walls. These "S. M."
Fasteners are made of soft, consequently very pliable
lead, with holes at each end. By using ordinary nails,
these convenient tree-f asteuers should last a consider-
able time. Clips are made of the same material, and
are intended for use instead of any tying material,
for securing plants to stakes. The Leeds Orchid
Company, who manufacture the above articles,
also send a sample of a permanent shading, in a
condition ready for use, and of their "Ivorine"
plant labels, with iudelible ink for writing thereon.
For many purposes these ivory-coloured labels
would be most useful, as they possess the quality
of neatuess in a marked degree.

The "Acm, Syrinoe.
New insecticides and appliances for their distri-
bution abound at the present day, rendering the
choice of one or the other exceedingly difficult to
the inexperienced. We have lately received from
Messrs. E. A. White, Limited, Hop and Fruit-
growers, Paddock Wood, Kent, a handy, well-con-
Btructed brass syringe, intended to economically
aud efficiently distribute as a fine spray clean
water, or liquid insecticides, over fruit-trees and
bushes, &c. It is fitted with a drip-preventer, aud
also a detachable elbow-joint, to enable the under-
sides of the foliage to be more easily reached by the
operator than is possible with an ordinary Syringe
w hen the plants operated upon are of low growth ;
as, for example, Strawberry-plants, Gooseberry,
t Mii.iut, and Rose-bushes.

©bltuary.

Thomas J. Saltmarsh.— The death of Mr.
Thomas Jo3eph Saltmarsh, the head of the firm of
Messrs. Saltmarsh .v. Sou, the Nurseries, Chelms-
ford, took place on the "2nd inst. at the age of
seventy-two. He had been in failing health for
some time past, aud in consequence was rarely seen
at the meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society,
although a member of the Fruit Committee. In
the latter part of the week, previous to his death,
Mr. Saltmarsh was seized with a paralytic fit, and
passed away without recovering consciousness. He
leaves a widow, but no children. The nurseries, up
to the death of Mr. Saltmarsh, had been in the
possession of three generations of the family. They
were founded iu the latter part of last century, by
the grandfather of Mr. T. J. Saltmarsh, who died
in 1829, when the father of the latter, Mr. Joseph
Saltm arsh, succeeded, and carried on the business
until 1S7'2, when the son just deceased became
manager, and succeeded to the estate. Mr. T. J.
Saltmarsh in early life was sent to the Pineapple
Place Nurseries, in the Edgware Road, where he
remained for two years, and then returned to
Chelmsford, to assist his father iu the business.
The firm has enjoyed for years an excellent county
reputation, aud a general collection of nursery stuff
was grown by them. The rearing of Mulberries
was at one time a leading specialty. For some
years a great deal of exhibiting was done ; tine
specimens of show and zonal Pelargoniums,
Dahlias, Asters, Chrysanthemums, fruit, &c. ,
being growu for the purpose. In reference to the
last-named, it will be remembered that two fine
and popular kitchen Apples, the Queen, au October
variety, and Chelmsford Wonder, December to
March, both of which received first-class certifi-
cates from the Royal Horticultural Society. He
was at one time particularly successful with Chrys-

anthemums as an exhibitor, winning many medals
and also several silver cups. He was a supporter
of several of the special fioricultural societies, and
a frequent attendaut at their exhibitions. At
Moulsham, a suburb of Chelmsford, in which the
home nursery is situated, Mr. Saltmarsh was an
active public man, and will be greatly missed. He
filled the post of vicar's churchwarden at Moulsford,
and w armly supported all educational efforts. As
a judge at flower-shows he was in much request ; of
modest and retiring habits, there was an entire
absence of self-assertion. In all that he undertook
the ruling motive with him was the best interests
of those about him. He was interred in the
borough cemetery, Chelmsford, on the 7th inst ,
amid many manifestations of respect and regret.

SOCI ETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Ju.nk 13. — Tlie firs! ordinary meeting of the Committee!!,
following upon the Temple Show, was held in the Drill Hall,
Westminster, on Tuesday last, and was attended by an exhi-
bition of considerable extent. In the first place, there was r
fine display of Orchids, and there were awarded to novelties
of this description one First-class Certificate, four Botanical
i M i ideates, and six Awards of Merit.

Then there were manygrand exhibits of hardy flowers;
some of the visitors ventured the remark that it was quite an
" fria " day, Ihere being very extensive collections of German

an. I Spanish Irises from Messrs. .1 as. VKITCH & S"Ns, M^si^.

Wallace & Co., Mr. Pritchard, ami others. But the
in.-, tin- was equally remarkable for Carnations, and the
Flmal Committee was engaged more than usually long in
adjudging the merits of novelties, most of which were Carna-
ihe Floral Committee's awards were eight Awards ol
Merit to Carnations, two to Roses, one to a Rhododendron,
an 1 one t" a variety of Lupinus arboreus. The Fruit Com-
mittee made no award to a novelty.

In the afternoon then- were elected to the Society upwards
of eighty new Fellows; and Mr. Meyer, of Exeter, read a
paper upon " Rock Gardens, Ponds, and Rivulets in Gardens/'
in which practical suggestions were given upon the formation
of rockeries, with a view t<> producing the mest natural
results. The choice of plants, and the planting of them,
were also subjects that were very fully explained.

Anion- tin- visitors to the Drill Hall was Mr. Arderne, o
Cape Town, South Africa, from whose remarkable garden
there we have frequently been favoured with interesting
photographs, several "f which have been reproduecd in these
pages. Mr. Arderne was invited to a seat upon the Floral
Committee,

Floral Committee.
it; W. Marshall, Esq., Chairman; and Messrs. H. M.
Arderne (South Africa), S. A. de GraafT, Chas. T. Druery,
H. B. May, R. Dean, W. Howe, J. Jennings, Jas. Hudson,
C. J. Salter, J. D. Pawle, W. Bain, Chas. Jeffries, Jas
Walker, George Gordon, ('has. E. Shea, Jas. H. Barr, E. T.
Cook, Herbert J. Cutbush, Ed. Beckett, Harry Turner, C.
Blick, E. H. Jenkins, Geo. Paul, H. J. Jones, H. Selfe-
Leonard, Bid. Mauley, and J. Fraser.

Messrs. Paul & Son, The Old Nurseries. Cheshunt, made a
large display of trusses of Rhododendron blooms in an exhibit
that included a few choice alpine plants and hunches of
garden varieties of Roses and Sweet Briars. The bold trusses
ol Rhododendron exhibited a number of varieties of bright
and distinct colours. Messrs. Pail also showed blooms of a
very pretty hybrid Bourbon Rose named J. B. M. Caimn. It
is exceedingly pretty in form, and pink and rose in colour.
Rhododendron Fortunei Boadicea is a laige handsome variety
with purple flowers, with throat spotted and marked with
brown (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, Woking Nursery, Surrey,
contributed a most gay exhibit of hardy flowers, in which
siigle and double-flowered varieties of Pyrethrum roseum
were conspicuous. There were line bunches of the yellow-
flowered Lupinus arboreus, Tritonia caulescens, T. Tucki,
Irises of sort'*, Senecio Doronicum, rich orange colour; also a
number of bunches of choice varieties of Lord Penzance's
hybrid Sweet Briars, Lord Penzance and Lady Penzance, the
former orange aud flesh coloured, and the latter rich rose with
orange centre, are amongst the earliest and most distinct.
Other large and handsome varieties were Amy Robsart, Julia
Mannering, Green Mantle, Lucy Bertram, Jeanide Deans,
Blush China, A-'. The firm also staged a small lot of flowers
of hardy herbaceous perennials and hardy deciduous shrub.".
Of the former, we. noticed Aster alpinus superbus, with ljlac-
coloured rays and a yellow disc ; Sidaleea malvaeflora, a
plant with compact short spikes, furnished with numerous
crimson flowers, which open in long succession ; Papaver
Blush Queen, flowers single, of a dull pink tint, with a
red-purple patch at the bottom of the flower; Betonica
granditlora, &c. Of shrubs, there were Hedysarum multi-
jugnm, Baptisia anstralis, and Wcigela Eon Kathke. a dark
crimson flower (Bronze Banksian Medal),

402

THE GAB BE NEBS' CHBONICLE.

[Juxe 17, 1899.

Messrs. R. Wailace & Co., Kilnfleld Gardens. Colchester,
had a group of choice hardy plants and flowers, varieties of
Lilium Thunbergianum, such as atro-sanguineum, marmora-
turn, and testaceum, were shown in pots. There were cut
flowers of Lilium rubellum, Anthericum liliastrum major,
plants of Cypripedium spectabile, many sorts of Iris, Brodiaja
capitata (blue), B. Howelli lilaeina, B. coccinea, B. laxa (blue),
Ixiolirion Pallasii, and the deepest coloured blooms of Incar-
villea Delavayi we have yet seen. A few of the smaller
flowered Calochorti, including amcenus albus, pulehellus, &c,
were included (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nurseries,
Chelsea, made a very remarkable exhibit of varieties of
German Irises, and although there is nothing particularly
new to notice in the collection, it was a tine exhibit of the
choicest varieties obtainable in the section, in addition to
being one of the most attractive exhibits in the hall. It
would serve no useful purpose to mention a number of these
varieties that have been described in the trade catalogues, but
those of the Pallida section, and such others as Due de
Brabant, Prince of Orange, Shakespeare, Sans Souci, flavescens,
A. F. liirron, Madame Chereau, and others were some of
those giving the greatest effect. A dozen or so varieties of
the Spanish Iris were also very pretty, and a number of
bunches of Ixias from rot plants splendidly illustrated the
beauty of these Cape bulbous flowers when well and strongly
grown (Silver Banksian Medal).

This firm also showed some plants of Pharus guianeensis
a .In -striata, a variety differing from the type in having
considerable variegation in the leaves. This, like the type,
has been introduced, and it will likely become a popular
decorative plant. AIho blooming a number of varieties of
their Javanico-jasminiBorum hybrids of Rhododendron, so
remarkable for the beautiful colours they present, and for
their handsome appearance.

Mr. H. T. Martin, gr. to Lord Leigh, Stoneleigh Abbey.
Kenilworth, showed a group of rather small but pretty plants
of Abutilon Sawitzii. This pretty variegated plant was the
subject of a note by Mr. Martin on p. 276 of the Gardeners'
Chronicle for May 6.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, had a group of
foliage-plants, in which were included most of the new species
frequently exhibited by (his firm, most of which have been
desci-ibed in these pages. Acalypha hispi.la, Dracama San-
deriana, Linospadix Mlcholitzii, Panax Mastersianus, Juni-
penis Sanderi, Mikania Sanderi. Cyperv.s feitilis, Dipladenia
Siimleii, and several varieties of Caladiums, wen- notice I
(Silver Banksian Medal).

Mr. F. Cast, Braiswick Nursery, Colchester, staged a large
quantity of '-Garden Roses," Lnd Penzance and other
Biiirs; yellow and other Scotch Roses, common China, iu
several varieties; and such Roses ai the Austrian Copper,
Mignonette, R. rugosa fimbiiata, a pale flesh-flower, with
prettily-fringed petals of large size, and semi-double — it
blooms the entire summer; Crimson Rambler, the new
Cli-.ibera named after the Three Graces, viz., Aglaia, pale
je'.low-rose, with a nice small bud, and the fragrance or the
Tja-Rose ; Thalia has minute semi-double white flowers, with
a yellow centre. Both of these varieties are of rampant
growth, good for covering arbors, making garlands, festoons,
s,., Euphrosyne, the sister-Rose to these two, but which
was not shown, has semi-double, bright pink flowers,
bringing, as all three do, a long succession of blooms.
Daws&n if a bright, pink-coloured, new climbing Rose,
cit'ier Roses were Marie Pavie, white, with blu-h centre, and
double-flowered ; Gustave Regis, beautiful in the bud, which
in that stage is reddish-orange ; Queen Mab, salmony-orange ;
II. rugosa var. blanc double de Coulert, a large semi-double
white flower of large size when fully expanded ; R. inermis, a
rose-pink, Perlede Panaehces ; Mme. Geo. Bruant, white, nice
in bud ; Marquis of Salisbury, Cooling's single flowered Crim-
son Bedder, Armosa (Hermosa ?), a full, compact Rose, light
pink in tint; Geo. Pernet, Lavette Messing, a flower beau-
tiful in bud, or when half opened, coppery pink and orange ;
Olga de Wiirtomberg, a big, showy, deep crimson flower, the
plant very vigorous ; R. rugosa, Souvetiir de Pierre Leper-
drieux, a big flower of a taking shade of purple (Silver Gilt
Flora Medal).

Messrs. G. Coolino & Sons, nurserymen, Bath, showed the
new garden Rose Puiity, white, with the faintest blush tint
hi the centre of the unopened bud, and beautiful in that con-
ditio i (Award of Merit). They showed Cooling's Yellow
Noisette, a flower also admirable in the bud state, and
apparently a capital bouquet or buttonhole Rose (Award of
Merit)

Messrs. Young & Sons, nurseryman, Windmill Lane.
Cheshuut, showed plants of a white Viola, having dowers of
good shape, and possessing a small yellow eye.

Messrs. H. Cannbll & Co. exhibited a large group, con-
sisting of the finest varieties of Canna indica. We noted
Ilurbank, one of the finest yellow varieties ; Comte de
Bonchaud, yellow, regularly dotted with crimson; Duchess
of York and Florence Vaughan, similar; Provincial, scarlet ;
Madame Crozy, 4c. The spikes were genorally of large size,
flowers well developed, and foliage plentiful (Silver Gilt
Flora Melal).

Mr. B. Ladhams, The Nurseries, Shirley, near Southampton,
showed an extensive assortment of hardy herbaceous
perennials as cut bloom, such as we have been accustomed to
observe in fine condition and great variety from this nursery
for several years past. Pinks in variety were prominent, and
the variety Lizzie Duval, a flower of soft purplish-rose was
very noticeable ; Pyrethrum roseum in many varieties were
likewise noticeable for brilliancy of colour ; also Dictainuus
Fiixinella, Muscan, various ; Hemerocallis Dumortieri, a
flower deep yellow within, and orange tinted without, 4c.

Messrs. Bark. & Sons, King Street, Coveut Garden, and
Long Ditton, showed a large collection of cut blooms of
hardy plants, especially noticeable being Papaver Salmon
Queen, Fa>onia herbacea, Iris in much variety, Kniphofia
Tucki, Alliums, Ixias, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal).

Mariin R. Smith, Esq., The Warren, Hayes, Kent (gr.,
Mr. C. Blick), showed a group of Carnations, receiving a
Silver-gilt Medal. Almost the entire collection consisted of
Souvenir de la Malmaison, in its varieties of crimson, flesh,
blush, pink of different shades, white, crimson, and scarlet ;
and baing grown with one flower per plant they were fine of
size. Of ordinary Carnations an A ward of Merit was made to
Don Carlos, a fancy, with a yellow-coloured ground and
crimson edge and stripes, more Picotee than Carnation.

Mr. John Russell, Richmond Nurseries, exhibited a group
of tree Ivies with green, silvery, and variously variegated
foliage of various heights, including many in standard form.
These tree Ivies seem to be finding employment in a
variety of ways in the garden, and as they afford a desirable
variation in form, height, and colour to the floral occupants
of beds and borders, their use is likely to spread (Silver
Banksian Medal).

A glorious exhibit of hardy flowers was made by Mr.
Maurice PRiTCHARD.Christchurch, Hants, the various bunches
of flowers indicating excellent cultivation. Spanish Iris
Leander, orange-yellow coloured ; and the variety Beauty of
Haarlem, with others, were capital. Ixias, Pyrethrums,
Lilium umbellatum erectum, Lupinus arboreus, Thalictrum
aquilegifjliutn, Dictainuus Fraxinella albus, &c, were noticed,
and fine sprays of Tropieolum Leichtlini, an excellent species
for the rockery (Silver Banksian Medal).

Messrs. T. S. Ware, Ltd., Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham,
also showed a grand exhibit of choice hardy flowers. Of
these there were noticed Pyrethrums, Tritonias, Dial. thus
caesius, Armeria ceplialotes rubra, some of the best blooms of
the new Lilium rubellum we have yet seen, the flowers being
very large and of pretty form and colour ; Geums, Incarvillea
Delavayi, Hieracium villosum, &c. (Silver Flora Medal).

Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, showed bloom ; of
some choice border Carnations, several of which gained
Awards of Merit.

From Mr. F. W. Moore, Glasnevin Botanic Gardens,
Dublin, came flowering sprays of Fremontia califoruica, and
Pffionia Kmodi, the latter with single, wdiite flowers.

Messrs. Carter & Co., High Ilolborn, London, contributed
a group of well-flowered Gloxinias in pots.

Mr. Mirk Fenwick, Meldou Park, Morpeth, showed a
device in wire for raising plants in pots, and by means of
supporting the plant immediately above a tin di-h provided
iu the stand, and which is filled with water, the plant is pio-
tei'ted from slugs and other creeping plant pists.

British Ferns ware shown in an extensive group from Mr.
H. B. May, Dyson's Road Nursery, Upper Edmonton This
collection, which is the Hrst exhibit composed exclusively of
British species we have seen from tins establishment, in-
cluded as many as no species and varieties. Tin- genera
Athyrium ami Lastrea accounted for a large number of the
spe hnens, and the wonderful variations caused much attrac-
tion. Mr. M.w also showed a number of plants of a pretty
orange-yellow-flowered Tropicolum, known as Sunlight (Silver
Flora Medal).

Ochna inulliflora was shown in fruit by .1. T Bennett- PcK,
Esq., Holinwood, Cheshuut (gr., Mr. Downes). This is a stove
evergreen, that produces yellow flowers, followed by a
globular receptacle similar to a Strawberry in shape and
colour. On the surface of each highly-coloured receptacle are
produced several black seeds, of great contrast to the
receptacle.

AWARDS.

Cwtti/ioii Galileo. A creamy yellow ground flower, of large

size and good form, with deep purple edge. From Mi. O.
Turner (Award of Merit).

Carnation Falcon.- A large yellow-coloured flower with
slight shades of brown. From Mr. C. TURNER (Award of
Merit).

Carnation Gnla'eci A yellow flower wilh narrow edge of
bright red colour, a very pretty variety, of good form. From
Mr. C. Turner (Award of Merit).

Carnation Agnes Sorel. A handsome and reiined llower of
large size, colour deep maroon. From Mr. C. Turner (Awntu
of Merit).

Carnation Goldfinch.— h pure canary yellow-coloured border
Carnation of much merit. From Mr. C. Turner (Award of
Merit).

Carnation Osaioii.— A tri-coloured flower flaked variously
with maroon and lose on deep purple ground. From Mr. C.
Turner (Award of Merit).

Carnation Don Carlos.— A fine yellow-ground border Carna-
t'on with narrow lose edging, a very fine flower or pleasing
form. From Marti: R. Smith. Esq. (Award of Merit).

Carnation Lady Rose.— A Malmaison Carnation or peculiar
shade of pink, distinct and attractive. From Martin R.
Smith, Esq. (Award of Merit).

Carnation Florizel. — Another distinct variety of the
Malmaison type, colour rosy carmine. From Martin R.
Smith, Esq.. (Award of Merit).

Lupinus arboreus nidus "Snoui Queen."— A white flowered
variety of this well-known and popular Lupin. It should be
a most effective plant. From Mr. B. Ladhams, Shirley
Nurseries, Southampton (Award of Merit).

Rhododendron Essex Scarlet. — A richly-coloured flower,
spotted upon the upper segments. From Messrs. Paul &
Son (Award of Merit).

Rose rarity.— A garden Rose of moderate size, very pretty
in bud d when more developed, slightly fragrant and pure

white in colour. From Geo. Co»lino & Son, Bath (Awaid of
Merit).

Rose, Coolings Yellov> Noisette. — The flowers are a pretty
shade of yellow, very attractive, but rather thin ; as the flower
becomes expanded; the foliage is large, smooth, and olive-
green in colour. From Geo. Cooling & Son, Bath (Awaid
of Merit).

Orchid Committee.

Present ; Harry J. Veitch, Esq., in the Chair ; and Messrs,
Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De B. Crawshay, H. Little, J.
Gabriel, A. H. Smee, F. Sander, H. J. Chapman, A. Outratn,

E. Ashworth, T. W. Bond, J. Colman, J. Gurney Fowler,

F. Mason, W. H. Young, H. T. Pitt, S. Courtauld ; and by
invitation, Hugh Dixson, of Sumner Hill, New South Wales.

There was an exceptionally fine show of Orchids, the grand
group staged by Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, and
which secured the Award of a Gold Medal, being o:.e of the
most remarkable exhibits of the year. Prominent among the
many showy hybrids in it were several fine forms of Lalio-
Cattleya x Aphrodite and L.-C. X Canhamiana, two of the
handsomest Orchids of the season, and supplying intereatiDg
variations. Among the newer hybrids not previously
awarded certificates were Ladio-Cattleya X Lucilia and
Epidendrnm X Langleyense (Pseud-epidendrum x Wallis),
both of which secured Awards of Merit. Among the forms of
Lselio-Cattleya x Aphrodite, the variety 'alba' with white sepals
and petals, was very handsome ; Lselio-Cattleya x Wellsiaua
albida, L.-C. x Hippolyta, forms of Epidendrum x O'Brienia-
aum, of varied colour; E. x elegantulum, and its yellow
variety 'luteum ' ; Masdevallia x Curlei, Cattleya x Schro-
deriana, Epiphronitis x Veitchi, the chaiming Spathoglottis
x aureo-Veillnrdi, Lielia x Latona, a good show of Disa x
Veitchi, Phalamorsis x Lndde-violacea, &c. ; while among
the species and varieties were noted a fine set of Lielia
purpurata, Cattleya Mossite, C. Mendeli.agrand pan of Masde-
vallia Veitchiana grandiflora, Sobralia macrantha alba ; goi >l
examples of Ti ichopitia crispa marginata now become very rare;
Phaius bicolor purpurea, Miltonia Phalsenopsis, M. Roezli,
and M. vexillaria, Angriecum modestum, Cedogyne Havana,
and nuineious Oncidiums and Odontoglossums.

Sir Frederick Wiqan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen (gr.,
Mr. W. H. Young), staged an interesting group, which showed
the wide variation iu Cattleya Mendel i, viz., C. M. alba, a
charming white flower with a slight blush tint; C. M. Nellie
Wigan, a still more beautiful white form with pale rose tinge
on the lip ; and C. M. Model, a dark form, with rich, ruby,
red front to the lip. The forms of Miltonia vexillaria, too,
were equally interesting, and ranged from the white M. v.
alba to Die noble M. v. Memoria G. D. Owen, with its daik
mask ..I ri I, claret-colour on the lip (Cultural Commendation).
Also in the group were a series of line varieties of Cattleya
Mossiie, the tu.se form of C. M. Reineckiana being among

them. So good Cypripedium Cuitisii, C. Gertrude

Hollington; a nice specimen of Epidendrnm atropurpureum ;
good Ladia purpurata, Odontoglossum x elegantius, &c.
(Silver-gilt Flora Medal).

De 11. Crawshay, Esq., Itoselield, Eevenoaks (gr., Mr. s.
Cooke), was awarded a Silver Banksian Medal foragmupoi'
Odontoglossuin crispum, remarkable not only for the line
qiulity of the flowers, but also for their remarkable culture,
evidence ol which was especially given by one fine plump
plant, bearing a large seed-capsule on the last Tear's bulb,
while the one since perfected bore two strong flower-spikes.
Among the finest were O. crispiim "White Empress,1' and
O. c. "Princess May," both noble white flowers, the latter
tint id rose.

J. Bradshaw, Esq, The Grange, Southgate (gr , Mr.
Whiflen), secured a Silver Banksian Medal tor an effective
group, iu which the fine forms of large-flowered Cattleyas
were remarkable. Cattleya Mossiie " Admiral Bradshaw" was
a very handsome form; C. M. " Mrs. J. Bradshaw," a noble
flower, very rich in colour and fine in shape ; C. M. alba and
c. M. Reineckiana, two good whites. Also noteworthy were
the pure white Cattleya intermedia alba, C. Mendeli "Venus,"
a chastely beautiful form ; Laslio-Cattleya x Aphrodite, some
very good Odontoglossum < rispuiu and Lalia purpurata;
Cattleya labiata Waineri, Dendrobiiini Jamesianum, Epi-
dendrnm vitellinum, Lycaste Dcppei, &c.

Messrs. Hush Low & Co., Enfield, staged a good group,
principally composed of their grand strain of Cattleya Mossia,
the darker varieties of which were very richly coloured, one
having a labellum which seemed to imitate Cattleya Hai-
ilyana. The forms of C. Mendeli were equally good, C. M.
l.owin- being a lovely white variety. Present also were good
Odontoglossum crispum, Aerides Houliettianum, Epidendrum
prisinatocarpuin, Lielia tfava, and other showy species (Silver
Banksian Medal).

Messrs. Stanlev-Mobr 5 & Ashton, Southgate, were awarded
a Silver Banksian Medal for a pretty group, in which were
good Cattleya Mossite, C. M. Mrs. C. II. Filling being very
tine in form and colour. Also included were gcod varieties of
Lielia tenebrosa, Cattleya Schille.-inna, Odontoglossums.
Oncidiums, &c.

J. Gurnet Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South Woodford
(gr., Mr. Davis), showed Ladia purpurata "Rex," a very flno
flower; Lselio-Cattleya x Aphrodite, Glebelauds vaiiety, ono
of the b:st coloured forms yet shown ; C. Mossiie, Glebe-
lands variety, resembling Reineckiana, but with a bluish tint
on the lip, and other Cattleyas.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq.j OakwooJ, Wjlam (gr,, Mr.
Win. Murray), showed Liclio-Cattleya C. G. Roebling, Cook-
son's variety (C. Gaskelliana x L. purpurata). a showy, pale
rose flower, with purplish-mauve front to the lip. W. P.
Birkinshaw, Esq., Hessle, Hull (gr,, Mr. Barker), showed

Junb 17, 1896.1

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

403

Ladio-Cattleya X Canhamiana, var. Amelia, a very fine rose-
ooloured flower, with velvety ruby-red lip.

Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Staines (gr., Mr. II.
Ballantine), showed Phalienopsis X John Seden (amabilis 9 ,
Luddemanniana $), with pretty rose-coloured, densely
spotted flowers.

Mr. R. n. Lef.cii, The Gardens, Wood Hall, Dulwich,
secured a Cultural Commendation for a large and llnely
flowered Bpidendrum Wallisii. Messrs. Jas. McISean & Sons,
Cooksbridge, showed Cattleya Mendeli Protheroeana, a very
beautiful white flower, with slight rose mark on the lip ; the
flower finely formed, and the lip closely crimped at the edge.
Mr. W. Bolton, Wilderspool, Warrington, showed Cattleya
Mendeli Blue Queen, a very pnetty, light form, with a decided
blue tint on the lip.

H. T. Put, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill (gr., Mr. Thur-
good), showed Lielia tenebrosa Pitliana, a very distinct light-
coloured form ; Zygopetaluni citiinum, and Cattleya Foitesii.
H. F. Simonds, Esq., Woodthorpe, Beckenhain (gr., Mr. G.
E. Day), showed Ladia purpurata Simondsii, a very large
flower, with fine claret-purple lip. F. W. Moore, Esq.,
Director of the Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin, sent
Eulophia guineensis and Bpidendrum porphyreum.

R. G. Fletcher, Esq., Mount Harry, Brighton, showed
Odontoglossum X Adrian* Florence Fletcher, a large and
finely-spotted flower; and O. c. Brighton Beauty, a rose-
tinted form. Mr. T. Rouhford, Broxbourne, again showed
his Odontoglossum X Adrian* Rochfordianum, with two
strong spikes (Cultural Commendation). G. W. Bird, Esq.,
Manor Home, West Wickham (gr., Mr. Redden , showed
Odontoglossum X Andersonianum Mrs. G. Bird, O. crisp urn
Margaret Bird, and O. c. Catheiine Bird, all good varieties and
distinct. ' T. B. Havwood, Esq., Woodhatch, Reigat? (gr.,
Mr. C. J. Salter), sent Odontoglossum crispum, Woodhatch
variety, a form of O. c. guttatum.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co , St, Albans, showed a small
group of Orchids, in which the most remarkable were a tine
and large-flowered Lielio-Cattleya x Gottoiana, and the very
handsome L.-C. X Ingrami superba (ti. Dayana x C. anna),
the flower large, and the lip of an intensely deep claret-
purple.

AWARDS.

Odontoglossum x Adriana Ashuwrth'anun from Elijah
Ashworth, Esq ,Harelleld Hall,Wilmslow(gr.,Mr. Holl.rook).
Flower large, and with broad segments, cream-white, densely
spotted with light brown; lip white, crimped, fringed, and
Bpotted (First-class Certificate).

Award of Merit.

Cattleya Mossier Victoria, from J. Guskey-FowlEr, Esq.,
Glebelands, South Woodfoid (gr., Mr. J. Davis). Flowers
very large and finely formed, white, with a delicate reticula-
tion of light purple on the broad petals, the centre of the lip
being bright yellow, with a few reddish markings.

Cattleya Eldorado, Glebelands var., from J. Gurnev-Fowi.er,
Esq. Flower bright rose coloured ; front of the lip dark claret-
crimson, tube orange ; flower very fragrant.

i am, i/a Homo: albescens, from Sir Frederii k Wioan, Bart,
(gr., Mr. W. H. Young), resembling C. M. Wagneri, but with
an almost imperceptible blush tint.

Odontoglossum x Garmdlnei Crawshayanum, from De B.
Crawshat, Esq. (gr., Mr. S. Cooke). Flowers of the typical
form, but larger ; bright yellow, witli large brown blotches.

Lalio-Cattleya x l.ueilia (C. Dowianad, L.-C. x Schiller-
iana$), from Messrs. Jas. Yeitch & Sons. Flowers cream-
white ; the petals slightly tipped with purple. Lip yellow at
the base, changing to cream-white towards the margin, the
front portion veined purple.

Epidendrum x Langl&yense (Pseud - epidendrum £, Wal-
lisii?), from Messrs. Jas. Veitcb & Sons. A singular cross
with the scarlet - lipped E. pseud - epidendrunl, which it
resembles in form. Sepals and petals yellow; lip orange,
closely streaked with purple around the callus.
Botanical Certificates.

Sartholina pectinata, from Leopold de Rothschild, Esq.,
Gunnersbury (gr., Mr. J. Hudson). A singular Cape terres-
trial Orchid, with reniform, fleshy leaves, and curious pale
blue, laciniated flowers.

Brio extinctoria, from Sir Fred. Wioan, Bart, (gr., Mr. H.
Young). A pigmy among Orchids, its slender stems bearing
whitish flowers, rising from very small clustered pseudo-bulbs.

Bulbophyllum nutans, from A. H. Smee, Esq., Carshalton
(gr., Mr. W. E. Humphreys). A singular species, with nod-
ding racemes of rather large, purplish flowers, with slender
petals and a purple lip.

Bulbophyllum modestum, from A. H. Smee, Esq. A small
species, with cream-white flowers.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present.' Philip Crowley, Esq., Chairman; ami Messrs.
George Bunyard, E. Shaw Blaker, Jas. H. Yeitch, A. H. Pear-
son, A. DeaD, S. Mortimer, J. W. Bates, Geo. Wythes, H.
Balderson, James Smith, and S. Norman.

Collection of Vegetables for the Sherwood Cvp Competition. —
Lord Aldenham, Aldenham House, Elstree (gr., Mr. E.
Beckett), exhibited one of the best collections of vegetables
ever observed at this part of the season ; especially excellent
being Cos and Cabbage Lettuces. Cabbiges, Cauliflowers, Globe
Artichokes, Victoria Rhubarb, very stout stalks ; Potatos, viz.,
Snowdrop, Sharpe's Victor, Mona's Pride, and Windsor
Castle ; Holborn Model Leek, of enormous size, and excellently
blanched ; Early Gem and Long Forcing Carrots ; Peas Thos.
Laxton and Early Morn ; Crimson Ball Egyptian Beet of this
season's growth; excellent Vegetable - Marrows, Pen y-Byd,
and others ; Tomatos, re'd and yellow varieties ; Cucumbers,

French Beans, new Turnips, and Broad and French Beans.
No other entry was made in this competition.

Lord Foley, Ruxley Lodge, Esher (gr., Mr. Miller), was
awarded a Bronze Banksian Medal for a collection of varieties
of Melons.

A Silver Banksian Medal was awarded to Mr. S. Mortimer,
Swiss Nursery, Rowledge, Farnham, for twelve Melons of the
variety Hero of Lockinge, medium-sized, well-netted examples.

F. C. Stoop, Esq., Westall, By fleet (gr., Mr. G. Carpenter),
showed a quantity of Purslane, a herb used as salad, and
once common in gardens, but now rarely grown in this
country. Botanically, it is Portulacca sativa.

Messrs. Harrison & Sons, nursery and seedsmen, Leicester,
showed a fine late Broccoli (six), with a whitish curd, ami
named " Leicester Late." It has a head well protected by the
short leaves, and the merit of being undoubtedly late.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

June 8. —There were present on this occasion, Messrs. G.
Shorland Ball, chairman; G. W. Law-Scholield, vice chair-
man ; R. Johnson, C. Parker (new member), J. Cypher
J. Robson,W. Duckworth (new member), W. Thompson, Dr.
Hodgkinson, and P. Weathers (hon. sec).

This was the first meeting of the Society's third year of
existence, and it may not be out of place here to remark that
during the short time the Society has been working it has
done an immense amount of work, and certainly created a
greater interest amongst the Lancashire amateurs than
hitherto prevailed.

A Gold Medal was offered last" year for the member of the
Society who gained the highest number of points during the
year for merit; and at the last meeting it was found that
John Lekmann, Esq., of Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr. Edge), was
the fortunate winner of this Award. Thos. Btatter, Esq.,
of Whitefield (gr., Mr. Johnson), being only a few points short,
and therefore a strong 2nd. There is no doubt that encourage-
ment of this description tends to make an amateur take an
interest ami pride in his collection, and I have no doubt there
will be a strong competition again in the season 1899 — 19C0
for the coveted honours. The Society starts on the third
year of its career with a balance in hand of over £50, and
several valuable assets.

O. <>. WaioLBT, Esi., Bridge Hall, Bury(gr., Mr. Rogers),
sho,ved Cattleya Mendeli, Wrigley's var., a pleasing Cattleya
of ;i soft tone of colour, with an exceedingly pale, almost
white lip, and a throat of a citron-yellow tint (an Award
of Merit). Cypripedium Gowerianum inagnificum came from
the same exhibitor, and was given a First-class Certificate.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Bradford, had a superb
form of Cattleya Reincckiana, which was awarded a First-
class Certificate ; a very pretty C. Mosshe, named Princess,
was passed ; and Stanhopea tigrina, Charlesworth's var., a
very gorgeous form of this tine old Orchid, was ,^iven an
Award of Merit.

Jons Lekmann, Esq., Heaton Mersey (gr., Mr. Edge),
staged a handsome and valuable lot of plants, the most
notable of which was Lalio-Cattleya x Canhaiiu.ma. vw,
" Puke of York," a lovely flower, of tine proportions and
great brilliancy of tints, which was unanimously admired by
the whole of the Committee, and which was awarded a First-
class Certificate ; and the Society giving instructions that a
] aiuting be made of the flower and it be put on lecurd. L.-C.
X Iolanthe var. grandiflora received an Award of Merit. A
plant of L.-C. x Arnoldiana received an Award of Merit. A
baautiful form of Odontoglossum Pescatorei called album
received a First-class Certificate. A Silver-gilt Medal being
awarded for the group.

Thos. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Whitefield, exhibited a
tine form of Ladia purpurata, n&med Stalteriana ; but an
objection was entered against this name, as it is said to be
precisely the same as one shown in London under the name
of L. p. Annie Louise. The plant was thereupon given a
First-class Ctrtificate under the latter name.

Richard Ashworth, Esq., Newchurch (gr., Mr. Pidsley),
exhibited Lwlio-Cattleya X Canhamiana, which obtained an
Award of Merit, as did also Lielia mnjalis from the same
exhibitor.

G. Shorland Ball, Esq., Wilmslow (gr., Mr. Gibbons),
showed Cypripedium Lawrenceannm var. Hyeanum, which
has already been certificated ; a magnificent C. callosum var.
Sandene, and whether there may or may not be varieties of
this albino, that brought before the committee was superior
to anything previously seen by them, and a First-class Cer-
tificate was unanimously awarded, the plant to be painted for
record.

Mr. A. J. Keelino sent a few pretty varieties of Cattleya
Mendeli and C. Mossiie, and a supposed natural hybrid
Cattleya between C. Mosshe and C. speciosissima, the exhi-
bitor obtaining a Vote of Thanks.

W. G. Groves, Esq., Windermere (gr., Mr. Robert Shaw),
sent tine meritorious plants in a fine Odontoglossum
Wilckeanum (First-class Certificate) ; O. Alexandra- " Groves'
var.," a flower of size and substance, but not quite round, and
the petals heavily spotted, a distinct feature of the flower
being the beautilul fringing of the segments (Award of Merit);
Phalienopsis grandiflora from the same collection received an
Award of Merit. W. Duckworth, Esq., Hexton (gr., Mr.
Tindall), showed a fine white Cattleya Mossia?. Mr. John
Robson, Altrincham, staged a plant of Odontoglossum hystrix,
very light in its colouring. Mr. J. Cypher, Nurseryman,
Cheltenham, had a few good forms of Cattleya Mossiie and
Cattleya Mendeli. Messrs. Heath & Son staged various
forms of Cattleyas. P, W,

THE YORKSHIRE GALA.

June 14, 15, 16.— The Horticultural Show was opened on
Wednesday under most auspicious circumstances. The entries
were as numerous as usual, and in almost all the classes there
was keen competition. The general effect of the Exhibition
was most satisfactory, and in the case of individual classes,
each was of much interest. The groups arranged for effect
were put up in capital style, and the quality of the plants was
high. Orchids were numerous, and very choice. Stove and
greenhouse plants were represented by large specimens full of
flower.

Immediately upon entering the tent, one was struck with
the excellence of the arrangements; abroad walk was banked
on one side by a magnificent exhibit from Messrs. Fisher,
Son, & Sibrav, Handsworth. This group, beautifully undu-
lated with an irregular edging, was composed at one end of a
fine collection of Rhododendrons full of flower; the centre
portion being of Acers in every form and variety, Bamboos,
Spineas, Euonymus, Standard Ivies, choice Conifene. Ad
joining these was a grand collection of Crotons and Aralias,
above which were suspended pitcher-plants in baskets ; and
again a large exhibit of Cattleyas, Cypripediums, and
Odontoglossums.

On the opposite side of the entrance, Messrs. W. Cutbush «fe
Sons, Highgate, had a large and varied exhibit of clipped
Yews in fantastic shapes. Adjoining these, the same firm
had a large display of Carnations with Bamboos and Rhodo-
dendrons; at their back, a fine mound of Richardia Elliotiana,
edged with Saxifraga pyramidalis, and Ferns, imparting a
neat finish.

There were large-sized Crotons and Palms. The fruit was
generally good, and the Peaches and Nectarines of good
colour. Strawberries were ripe and of large size. There were
many line collections of cut flowers of herbaceous plants.

Stove and Greenhouse Plants.

The end of this entiancc was devoted to the stove and
greenhouse plants with immense Palms overhead. Here Mr.
J. Cvpher, Cheltenham, showed in his usually successful
manner, being 1st for twelve stove or greenhouse plants in
bloom, and having Erica Cavendishi, Erica ventricosa, E.
niagnifica, large and full of flower ; Clerodendron Balfouria-
num, Anthurium Seherzerianum, Bougainvillea Sanderiana,
Ampelopsis inacrnntha rosea, Azalea Souvenir de Prince
Albert, &c. The 2nd prize was awarded to Mr. W. Vause. Mr.
Cvpher was 1st also for six stove or greenhouse plants in
which were large plants of Bougainvillea Sanderiana, Fran-
ciscea eximia, and Ericas, full of flower.

For three plants Mr. Cvpher was also to the fore.

Orchids.

The Orchids were very numerous, and much competition
was observable. For a table of Orchids, 10 feet by 4 feet,
where cut flowers were also admitted, Mr. J. Cvpher was
placed lot for a beautifully light arrangement, in which
Bamboos, Dendiubiums, and Oncidiums were well intermixed
at the back, and the centre and front was composed of
Cattleyas Mosske and Mendeli, Ac. Ladia purpurata, L. tene-
Irosa, Odontoglossum vexillarinm, Epiphronitis Veitchi, and
Cypripediums. Mr. J. Robson, Altrincham, was a good 2nd,
having Oncidiums, Sobralias, Epidendrum prismatocarpum,
Odontuglossum crispum in quantities, Auguloa Clowesii,
Cypripedium bellatulum, and others, the whole edged with
Ferns.

For ten Orchids Mr. Cvpher was again 1st, with Odonto-
glossum vexillarium, with twelve spikes ; Epidendrum
vitellinum majus, with twenty-four spikes; Ladia tenebrosa,
L. purpurata, Oncidium sarcodes, Cattleya Mossia1, C
Warneri, &c Mr. J. Robson was 2nd, and showed a very
large specimen of Oncidium macranthum.

Mr. Cvpher was again 1st for six Orchids, being followed
by Mr. W. P. Burkensuaw.

For six Orchids, new or rare plants, not made up, Mr. T.
Statter, Whitefield, Manchester, was 1st, with choice plants
of Lielio. Cattily a x Pluebc, C. Mendeli albanensis, Cypri-
pedium callosum Sanderse, Ladia purpurata Statteriana, and
others.

For three new or rare Orchids, Mr. Burkenshaw was 1st.
For a single Orchid, Mrs. Tetlev, Leeds, was 1st, with
Aerides Fielding!, carrying five spikes.

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Holloway, had a fine
display of Cattleyas, Ladias, Odontoglossums, &c ; and L»dio-
Cattleya Edouard Andre, Aerides expansnm leonis, Cymbi-
dium Lowi, Oncidium macranthum and Lalia purpurata,
Williamsii, and a large mass of Utricularia montana were very
prominent.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Bradford, had a nice collec-
tion of plants, in which Thunia Marshalliana, Oncidium
macranthum, Cymbidium Lowi, Ladia tenebrosa, in flne colour
and form, Oncidium hastatum, Odontoglossum Vuylstekea-
num, C. Reineckiana, L.-C. radiata and Thunia Veitchi were
well represented.

Messrs. J. Cowan k Co , Liverpool, had a capital exhibit,
in which Venda Parishi was noticed, among choice Cattleyas,
Ladias, and OdontoglotsuiiH.

Messrs. J. Yeitch & Sons, Chelsea, had a small but choice
collection of hjbrids— Lalio-Cattleya Eudora and L.-C. En-
dora alba, L.-C. Canhamiana, L.-C. Wellsiana albida, C.
Mossiee excellens, C. Schrcederiana, and L.-C. Zephrya. S]a-
thoglottis aureo-Viellardf was also in this collection.

Florists' Flowfrs.
A large tent devoted to Fuchsias h,nd Pelargoniums, was
full of colour, many of the plants being of excellent quality,
large in size, and wonderfully well bloomed.

404

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE'.

[JVne 1?, 1899.

For twelve Show Pelargoniums, Mr. T. J. Hingston waa
well 1st with magnificent plants, iust 4 feet in diameter,
almost fiat, and densely covered with flowers.

For six Show Pelargoniums, Mr. Tetlev was 1st with
Kingston Beauty, Magpie, Painted Lady, Madame Richard,
and Madame de Desinoulin, as his best varieties ; Mr.
Hingston was 1st for three plants.

For a group of not fewer than eight fancy Pelargoniums,
Mrs. Tetley was 1st, with splendid plants ; the same
exhibitor being also 1st for twelve, six, and three zonal
Nosegay Pelargoniums, and for nine plants of double-flowered
Pelargoniums.

The Ivy-leaf section of Pelargoniums was not good.

A magnificent display of Calceolarias was staged by
Messrs. Cljbran, Manchester, some 200 dwarf, compact
plants being full of flowers of distinct colours, self and
spotted, no two alike among them.

Mr. J. Forbes, Hawick, staged an exhibit of herbaceous
Phlox and Pentstenions, very distinct in marking and large in
flower. A. Wilson, Esq., Kelso, had a fine group of Car-
nations, which was awarded a 1st prize ; Messrs. Lalng &
Mather being 2nd.

Feknb.

Ferns were well shown, some fine Davallias being observed
(a several collections- For six exotic Ferns Mrs. Gurney
Pease was 1st, with Davallia fi.jiensis, D. Mooreana, Microlepia
hirta cristata, Gleichenia Mendeli, Adiantum Farleyense and
another. Messrs. R. Sampson & Son were 2nd. For three
exotic Ferns the Rt. Hon. Lord Barnard was in the foie
with Davallia poljantha, an immense plant ; D. Mooreana, and
a golden Gymnogramnia ; Mrs. Gurney Pease was 2nd, with
pav&Uia lijiensis, D. F. plumosa, and Adiantum concinnum.
. For one specimen of exotic Fern the Rev. G. Yates was 1st,
with a large plant of Adiantum Farleyense. Messrs. J. Hill
& Son, Edmonton, were 2nd, with Nephrolepis iur«icens
species. The latter firm had a large collection of choice
Ferns, in splendid condition. Here were A. capillus-veneris,
A. Farleyense, macrophyllum, rhodophyllum, aglaomorpha
Meyeriana &c. There were classes also for hardy species of
Ferns.

Groups for Effect,

For a group of miscellaneous plants, in or out of bloom, to
occupy a space not exceeding 300 square feet, Mr. C. J. Mee
was 1st, with a fine collection of Palms, Alocasias, Crotons,
and Ferns, beautifully arranged. Mrs. Gurney Pease was
2nd, with a very pretty arrangement. These groups and
others were most effectively arranged.

Capital Crotons were shown by Messrs. Simpson, Mrs.
Guaney Pease, and E. H. Fader, Esq., who took prizes in
the order named.

Roses.

These were shown in considerable numbers, but the heat
soon caused many of the flowers to lose their freshness.
.For seventy-two single blooms in not fewer than thirty-six
varieties, Mr. W. Hutchinson was 1st, with choice and large
blooms. Messrs. J. & A. May, 2nd, and Mr. Mount, of Can-
terbury, Jrd. The last named exhibitor was 1st for forty-
eight blooms, and Messrs. A. & J. May, 2nd.

For eighteen distinct varieties, Messrs. Harkness & Sons
were first, and Mr. Monsr, 2nd.

Fruit and VEGETABLES.
Fruit was exhibited in moderate quantity. Foradecorative
table, to measure 10 feet by 4 feet 0 inches, and to include
not more than fourteen dishes, the 1st prize was won by
Sir J. W. Pease. A small plant of Cocos was in the centre
with two vasescharminglyfurnislud withOncidiumflexuosum,
Odontoglossum crispum, Brassia verrucosa, Grasses and
Ferns. The fruit consisted of Black and White Grapes,
Melons, Peaches, Nectarines, Cherries, Figs, ifce., in all,
fourteen dishes. The Earl of Harrington (gr., Mr. Good-
acre), was 2nd. The centre of this table being decorated chiefly
with Odontoglossum crispum.

For a collection of six kinds of fruit, the Right Hon.
^Lord Barnard was 1st with Black Hamburgh and Poster's
Seedling Grapes, good Peaches, Nectarines, Figs and Melons ;
.Sir J. W. Pease was 2nd. Mr. W. Sheepshanks was 1st for
four kinds, showing good Black Hamburgh Grapes, Melons,
Rivers' Orange Nectarines, and Peaches. The Earl of
Londesborough and Mr. F. B. Groshian, were respectively 1st
and 2nd for three bunches of Black Grapes ; whilst the latter
■exhibitor was 1st with three bunches of a white variety,
showiog Buckland Sweetwater. Mr. J. Edmonds, Bestwood
Gardens, was 1st for a dish of Peaches, showing good Royal
George ; and Mr.^Goodacre, gr. to the Earl of Harrington,
2nd. Nectarines were good, Mr. J. Edmonds being the best
exhibitor. Viscount Rainilifke was 1st for a scarlet flesh
Melon, and Sir J. W. Pease 1st with a green flesh fruit. The
Right Hon. Lord Barnard was 1st with six Figs. Sir J. W.
-Pease 1st for Cherries ; and the Earl of HaBBINGTON 1st for
Strawberries. Lady Beaumont was successful with twelve
■Tomatos, showing Frogmore Scarlet.

Sir J. W. Pease was 1st with a very nice collection of
Vegetables. A capital lot of fruiting plants of Strawberry,
Laxton's Leader, was shown by Messrs. Laxton, Bedford.
Miscellaneous.
M sssrs, Cutbush, of London, had a magnificent display of
hardy cut flowers. For twelve bunches of hardy border
flowers, Messrs. J. Burrel & Co., were well 1st, and made
a tini display. Gloxinias were shown in splendid form by
Mr. J. .1. Uim'on, the blooms being of immense size, and
distinct in colour.

Messrs. IIarknuss were 1st with ;i grand stand of hardy
lierbaceous flowers, covering a space IS feet by A feet ; Messrs.
Smith k Co., Worcester, were 2nd.

A splendid lot of Calceolarias, mixed with Coleus, Maples,
Dracaenas, and mosses, was shown by Messrs. Hingston, and
were awarded 1st prize.

Begonias call for no special remark.

Messrs. Kelway & Sons, Langport, Somerset, had a grand
display of P;eonics, Amaryllis, and choice herbaeeous plants.

AWARDS.
Gold Medal.
For a miscellaneous group of plants, to Messsrs. Fisher,
Son & Sibray.

For a miscellaneous group of plants, to Messrs. Cotbusb
& Sons.
For Orchids, to Messrs. Ciurlesworth & Co.

Silver Medal.
For miscellaneous plants, to Messrs. R. Smith & Co.
For a group of Calceolarias, to MesLrs Clibran & SOK.
For a group ofOnhids, to Messrs. B. S. Williams <fc Son.
For a group of Orchids, to Messrs. Cowan & Co.
For a collection of Clematis, to Messrs. Jackman & Sox.
For a collection of Ferns, to Messrs. J. Hill & Son.

WARGRAVE & DISTRICT GABDENERS'
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.

June 7. — The tirst monthly meeting of the Sjciety was
held at Wargrave on the above date, Mr. W. Pope presiding.

Mr. W. Bazeley, of The Nurseries, Twyford, read a useful
paper on " Zonal Pelargoniums," tracing the gradual deve-
lopment of this favourite and useful flower. The culti-
vation, method of striking cuttings, kinds of soils and
manures best suited to them, were ia turn dwelt upon. Cut-
blooms of various kinds were shown, including a new one
raised by himself. A discussion took place, in which many
joined. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Bazeley for liis
paper.

A Madagascar Rubber-Tree.— M. Henri
Jumelle contributes to the Comptea Rendus for
May 29, a paper on the Guidroa, a rubber-tree of
Madagascar. The writer mentions that the plant
has hitherto been known only under its native
name, but that now, thanks to specimens sent from
Suberbieville (!) by M. Periek de la Bathie, it
has been possible to ascertain whether it is a new
species, or can be identified with any that is
already known. The conclusion arrived at is,
that the Guidroa, though clearly belonging to the
Mas care nliasia genus, does not exactly resemble
either of the fifteen or sixteen known species, but
may be held to be a new species, and may be
named Mascareuhasia velutiua, in allusion to the
very characteristic velvety substance of the leaves.
M. Jumelle describes the manner in which the
rubber is gathered from the trees by the Sakalaves.
During the dry season, when the milky juice is
very thick, they make, he says, numerous incisions
in the trunks. The milky juice coagulates almost
immediately below the wound, forming small
bands of gum which the workers remove after an
hour, and which they agglomerate into balls. In
this way oue man can easily gather a kilogram of
the gum in one day. The caoutchouc thus ob-
tained is of good quality, and even, it appears,
superior to that gained by ebullition. Thus it
seems likely that the Mascarenhasia genus, only
found on the east side of Africa and in Madagascar
(especially in the north and east), will play a more
important part in furnishing caoutchouc plants
than has previously been thought likely.

Trade Notice.

Mi:. E. J. Deal having been appointed general
manager of the firm of Messrs. W. W. Johnsou &
Son, Ltd., Boston, Lines., has resigned his position
with Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading.

to {sy%\.gr:

Correspondent^

very vigorous in the upper part. This sort of
treatment is applicable to almost every kiud of
plant used on walls and fences.

Chrysanthemums : J. B. There is nothing in the
specimen sent that indicates the cause of the
injury. The cause was evidently a violent one,
and something other than disease.

Mushrooms : E. B. D., Addiscombe. The fungi
are Agaricus Elvensis, B. , a species first described
by M. J. Berkeley, and found several times since
iu England and in France. It is an excellent
edible Mushroom, and is figured in Cook's
I/lustrations, pi. 522. M. C. C.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — Correspondent. 1, Phlox
setacea var. ; 2, 1'. subulata frondosa ; 3, P. s. var. ;
4, P. s. Nelsoni ; 5, P. reptans (syn. verna, stoloni-
fera, and others). — M. R., Nn. 2. Nothoscordum
fragraus. — John Newton. Lonicera involucrata,
syn. L. Ledebouri. — Pinner. 1, not found ; 2,
Hyacinthus comosus ; 3, Veronica Teucrium.—
Scot. 1, Lonicera tatarica ; 2, Ornithogalum
nutans. — C. F. 1, Dielytra spectabilis ; 2, Gera-
nium sanguineum ; 3, Hyacinthus comosus; 4,
Veronica gentianoides. — R. C. B. A lilac variety
of Scilla campauulata. — Cardboard Box — no
name. Specimens withered and blackened be-
yond recognition ; as a guess we note, 1, probably
a Vaccinium ; 2, flowers of an Ash (Fraxinus sp. ) ;
.'{, Spiraea, perhaps hypericifolia. — Twenty Years'
Header. 1, Dendrobiutn Pierardi ; 2, Dendro-
bium devooianum. — W. W. B., Sheffield. 1,
Cattleya Mendeli ; 2, Sobralia macrantha ; 3,
Cirrhopetaluui Colletti. — P. H., Cambs. Vanda
c rrulescens. — /• A. B. 1, Polygonum Bistorta ;
2, Equisetuni arvense ; 3, Muscari comosum ; 4,
Chelidonium majus. — ./. H. B. Potentilla
Tormentilla. — W. W. Ornus europaja, the flower-
ing Ash.— C. <!. 1, Ulmus montana. Witch-
Elm ; 2, Nasturtium amphibium ; 3, Barbarea
vulgaris ; 4, Lepidium Draba ; .>, Sedum car-
neum variegatum ; (i, Senebiera coronopus. —
/. P. L. 1, Querous coccinea ; 2, Leucothoe
axillaris ; 3, Ledum latifolium ; 4, Crata'gus —
perhaps C. crus-galli ; 5, Leiopliyllum thymi-
folium, atots Ledum buxifolium. — T. E. S. Trol-
lius europ;eus ; seed or division of the roots
iu early autumn or spring. — Vo name, card-
board-box. 1, Trollius'europams ; 2, Ranunculus
acouitifolius ; 3. Hesperis niatronalis ; 4, Orni-
thogalurn umbellatum -, 5, Spiroaa callosa ; li,
Ajuga reptans.— \V. B. Bromus sterilis.— Po/h-
.(■ Sons. Piptauthus uatalensis, Natal Laburnum.
Notice to quit Service : '.'. D. In the absence
of any written agreement to the contrary, a
month's notice on either side is required. Of
course, if you must quit at once from no fault on
your side, you can claim house-rent, allowance
for coal, and other perquisites for a mouth.

Strawberry Plants not Flowering : Anxious.
The soil iu which the plants grow has been so
much enriched with manure that leaf-growth
alone has been made. Sometimes the Straw-
berry reverts to its original, i.e., a dioecious state,
and male aud female blooms are then borne on
different plants. The Hautbois is persistently
dioecious, and unless a pretty good proportion of
male and female plants grow together iu a bed, the
produce is poor. We should advise you to obtain a
fresh stock of young plants from beds iu bearing
this year ; but not to destroy the barren ones, as
these may carry fruit another year, and we thiuk
that this is the more probable, seeing that no
flowers at all have appeared this year.

TOMATOS : D. O. The roots show no injury. The
leaves are probably affected with the sleepy
disease often described in our columns.

Tulip : Chas. S. 6'.— The Tulip sent is probably
au escape from cultivation, and it has reverted
to a great extent towards an original species,
probably F. (iesneriana.

Clematis, Honeysuckle, &c. : T. II. S. The
entangled state of the upper shoots under the
spouting is due to your neglecting to check the
rampant growths at the top by a timely nipping-
out of their points and letting the lower shoots
alone, meantime fastening the former in a hori-
zontal or even downward direction with nails and
shreds, bast, &c. The nipping-out of the points
may need to be performed twice if growth is

COMMDNIl ATIONS RECEIVED.— .7. K. Allen. — P. B.— Secretary

Royal Agricultural Bpne\oljnt Institution. — R. J. h.—
II. W— T. C.-J. F. H.-R. M.— T. Meehan. Philadelphia.
— w. C —P. C.-A. I). S S.-W. W.— Ed. Webb & Sons.—
W. S— W. 8.— A. W. C.-H. A. -A. C. P.-D. T. F.—
W. ('. W.-C. T. I).

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
II W.-II. J. 10.

{For Markets and Weather, see p. x.)

June 24, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

405

$*m£^

THE

barters' djftwnttte

No. 652.— SATUBDA Y, JUNE 24, 1899.

CHLOROSIS IN FEUIT TREES.

ONE of the most eminent of the many able
writers who have enriched the pages of
the Gardeners' Chronicle, the Rev. J. M.
Berkeley, correctly referred to chlorosis as an
extremely formidable plant-disease, and defined
it as consisting in "a pallid condition of the
plant, in which the tissues are weak, and
unable to contend against severe changes ;
the cells being more or less destitute of chloro-
phyll." Horticulturists have occasionally be-
come unpleasantly familiar with the disastrous
effects of the disease, particularly in the culti-
vation of Cucumbers and Melons, and in
too many cases the usual remedies proposed
have proved of no avail. Long before the
nature of the disease was known to me, I had
witnessed the mischief it could occasion, and
had assisted in the application of many sub-
stances that were supposed to be beneficial,
but which rarely realised the expectations
formed concerning them. Good effects would
sometimes result from the employment of iron
sulphate solutions, but this also would often
fail, probably because the plants dealt with
were annuals, aud the disease was too far
advanced before the applications were com-
menced.

Scientific investigators have agreed that
chlorosis is mainly due to a deficiency of iron
in the soil, for though the quantity required to
render a plant healthy is extremely small, yet
in its absence, microscopic examination has
shown that the protoplasm in the cells of the
leaf is without colour, and the chlorophyll
granules are not formed. In the majority of
published analyses of plants, iron is commonly
omitted, as it is usually less than 1 per cent, of the
ash, yet in some instances as much as 6 per cent,
has been recorded, but this is exceptional, and
amongst hardy fruits the only case known to me
of a similar high percentage is the fruit of the
Greengage. With regard to soil analyses also,
it is seldom that the proportion of iron is given
separately, and in a series of analyses recently
prepared by Dr. Bernard Dyer for the Cornwall
-County Council, oxide of iron and alumina are
given together as varying from about 5 to 14
per cent. On the plots where there is the
lowest proportion of iron and alumina, there
is also a corresponding low percentage of pot-
ash, and the relatively small crops produced are
probably due to this deficiency ; at least, in
the report issued I can find no reference to the
foliage of the plants showing indication of
chlorosis.

Experiments undertaken by Sachs and other
continental observers, demonstrated that when
seedlings were grown in substances free from
iron, the leaves gradually became white, and
that when iron sulphate was subsequently
applied the effect was seen within twenty-four
hours, chlorophyll granules being formed
immediately, and in a few days the plants were
quite green. The process of assimilation is
dependent upon the production of chlorophyll,

and consequently in its absence or deficiency
growth is arrested, or can only proceed at the
expense of previously-stored materials. Those
who are interested in this part of the subject
would find a most valuable record of experi-
ments in the "Chemistry and Physiology of
Foliage Leaves," by Mr. Horace T. Brown,
F.R.S., and Mr. G. H. Moms, Ph.D., in tho
Journal of the Chemical Society, May, 1893.

Comparatively seldom are hardy fruit trees
soriously subject to chlorosis, but some time ago
my attention was called to a remarkable ease iu
Hertfordshire, at Hamels Park, near Buntingford,
the residence of H. Shepherd-Cross, Esq., M.P.,
where several series of valuable and highly inte-
resting experiments have been carried out duriug
the past fourteen years. I have had the oppor-
tunity of carefully examining the trees in the
gardens, and have further been favoured with full
details of the experiments/and accorded permission
to make use of them, with the result that the fol-
lowing digest has been prepared. Mr. Shepherd-
Cross has spared no expense or trouble in tho
investigations, and his efforts have been ably sup-
ported by his gardener, Mr. Wallis, from whom I
have received much kind attention in my enquiries.

The soil at Hamels Park is a heavy marl,* tho
proportion of chalk being large, aud the same
character prevails over a wide district, especially
on the higher ground. The land is fertile, and
suits many crops remarkably well, all leguminous
plants, for instance, both in gardens and farms,
such as Peas, Beans, and Clover, flourish amazingly ;
so also do the Cabbage and Turnip family, "club"
being unknown. Iudeed, it is stated that Savoy
Cabbages were grown on the same plot of ground
for ten years in succession without deterioration,
and without any trouble resulting from either
"club" or wireworm. Mr. Shepherd-Cross re-
quested Dr. J. A. Voelcber to take samples of the
soil for analysis iu lss.">, with the following result: —

Pr. Poi ' of the HanuU Park Soil.

Organic matter t ami loss on heating

5-64

Oxidi "firou

4-SO

Alumina

6 35

< i

13 :,:>.

Sulphate ol limi

0-22

Magnesia

n-47

Soda

0-25

Potash

0-43

Phosphoric acid -

0-14

Insoluble silicates and sand

CS-57

HiO-00

Some years later, namely, iu 1894, it was
decided to have a special analysis of the chalk
alone ; this task was also entrusted to Dr. Voelcker,
and his record is here appended : —
ds oj Chalk.

Moisture 0-10

Oxide of iron and alumina 0'10

CarbonaU' <>t Inm- ... 99*20

Magnesia, alkalies, &c. .. .. 0'30

Silica - ... 0 30

100 00
Judging from the above, the opinion would be
formed that while not rich in potash, the soil con-
tains as much as many others, its chief marked
characters being a low percentage of phosphoric
acid, a small proportiou of organic matter, and,
consequently, of nitrogen, with a large quantity of
carbonate of lime. The iron, too, is quite equal to
that in many soils where no trouble is caused by
chlorosis.

Tho behaviour of fruit-trees at Hamels Park is,
however, so remarkable, and failure so persistently
followed every early attempt at their culture, that
for some years it seemed a hopeless task. All
kinds of hardy fruits failed in a similar mauner.
In two or three years from planting, the foliage on
some branches would become pale or whitish ; in
the following year the leaves on these branches
would be still weaker, they were readily scorched

in .the sun, and later in the season they would
become perforated, "appearing," as Mr. Wallis
says, "as if they had been shot." The branches
gradually lost strength, and were unable to produce
any foliage, while in the Cherry and Apricot the
affected portions quickly died.

In most cases where chlorosis became manifest,
fruit-buds were not produced, but when any fruits
were borne on Apples or Pears so affected they failed
to develop satisfactorily, and were disfigured by
"scab." Plum trees were found to resist the
disease for the longest time before entirely suc-
cumbing, but such fruits as might be produced
proved almost worthless. Peaches and Nectarines
showed similar effects to Plums, Apricots, and
Cherries, while, amongst other fruits that suffer,
must be named the Gooseberry and Currant, Rasp-
berries, and even Strawberries, the last seldom
surviving beyond the second year, but dying soon
after the flowers have opened. It may be added
that Roses and Laurels are subject to the disease ;
Bouvardias and Chrysanthemums, with many other
ornamental plants, also fall victims when grown in
the same soil, either out-of-doors or under glass.
The evil, it will be seen from the foregoing, is very
general, and afforded ample scope for a thorough
investigation respecting the causes and possible
remedies. It was suggested that the employment
of different stocks for the fruit trees might act
beneficially, but experience proved that this had
not the effect supposed, and those now in use, and
satisfactory, are the broad-leaved English Paradiso
for Apples, the Quince for Pears, and the seedling
Greengage for Plums.

It has been considered that cold soils and bad
drainage may either operate as direct causes, or at
least increase the injuries arising from chlorosis.
For this reason experiments were commenced, with
the object of improving the conditions, so that
deep rooting might be prevented, and thorough,
drainage be ensured. To this end, stations were
prepared for fruit-trees by removiug the soil to the
depth of 4 feet ; the base of each was cemented
and connected by drains 6 inches lower. Upon
the cement a layer of brick-rubble was placed 1
foot deep ; and above this, 3 feet of soil, in which
the trees were planted ; or in a few cases the soil
was raised a foot above the ordinary eurfaoe. In
all these experiments the foliage failed a* tho
usual time, and in the same way, as with those
trees receiving no speeial treatment.

Stations were next prepared in a similar manner,
but all the old soil was removed, fresh turfy-loam
beiug substituted. The trees made better progress
in this at first, and the foliage continued healthj-
for a longer period, but it ultimately failed, aud
the progress of the disease was then more rapid,
especially as regards Peaches. Many of the
ordinary natural manures were employed at
different times, including that from horses, cows,
fatting bullocks, and pigs, either separately or in
mixtures. The only appreciable results being that
while the trees made a more vigorous growth for a
time, they failed proportionately more rapidly
afterwards. R. Lewis Castle.

(To be continued).

:' The marl is 10 to 20 feet deep, resting on chalk,
t Contaiuing nitrogen 0"2S, equal to ammonia 034.

Orchid Notes and Gleanings.

■ •» ■

CATTLEVA LAYVRENl'EANA.

Mr. Hart of the Trinidad Botauic Garden has
kindly sent us two flowers of this species, in both of
which one of the lateral petals is adherent to the
column, which is more curved than usual.

Selenipedidm Schrozdeei X.
Count Kerchove obligingly sends a flower of this
form iu which the two lower sepals are conjoined
into oue, and twisted so as to occupy tho front of
the flower, whilst the single lateral petal is placed
opposite, or at the back ; opposite this petal is the
lip in the fore part of the flower. At the back of
the flower is the column with a single anther Al

406

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 24, 1899.

and a two-lobed starninode. Tbe ovary is two-
lobed, with two placentas. There is thus a
tendency for the parts of the flower to be arranged
in twos, and in one straight vertical line one over
another.

Abnormal Cattleya.
From the garden of Sir F. Wigan comes a curious
flower of Cattleya Mossise. The parts of the flower
are in twos instead of in threes, and there are two
lips, so that the flower is regular. There are two
sepals, one to the right, the other to the left, and
one a little like tbe lip. Crossing these at right
angles, are two lip-like petals, and in the centro an
erect column with the anther on the top, as is the
rule in such cases. The malformation thus depends
on reduction of parts and peloria.

PEOLIFEEOUS BUDS OF PINUS

SYLVESTRIS.
Kecently, passing through a plantation, we were
struck by a peculiarly bushy appearance of the
branches of a young tree of this species (fig. 147).
On examination we found that the shoots of the year,
instead of extending in length, wero contracted or
arrested in growth, and the pairs of leaves with
their encircling bud-scales were huddled together
into subglobose masses, each the size of a large Tea.
From these projected the tips of the primary leaf-
scales, so that a hedgehog-like appearance was
presented. But this was not all. Between the
two foliage-leaves was a terminal bud, consisting of
an indefinite number of overlapping scales. At the
base of each of these masses of scales were the dried
remnants of a similar growth in the preceding year.
It is possible these appearances arc due to the irri-
titiou caused by insect-puncture, but we were not
able to discover any insect or fungus.

Forestry.

THE LEAFING OF TREES.
(Continued from p. 353.)

The observations in question were made at over
200 stations scattered over the German Empire, and
the results obtained were summarised in a report
drawn up by Dr. Karl Wimmenauer, of Giessen.
They covered a period of ten years, from 1S85 to
1894, and extended to the leafing, fruiting, aud
autumn leaf-colouring of all the more important
forest trees and shrubs. The more important of
these conclusions arrived at, or which confirmed
those of previous observers, had reference to the
order in which different trees break into leaf, the
time of flowering, ripening of the fruit, and yield-
ing of seed ; and the influence of latitude, longi-
tude, and elevation in the several phases of growth.

The order of leafing was found to be as follows :
— Larch, then Birch, Hornbeam, Beech, peduncu-
late and sessile-flowered Oaks, Silver Fir, Spruce
and Scots Fir in the order named. At great alti-
tudes the Hornbeam was frequently found to be
later than the Beech, while the sessile-flowered
Oak was usually later than the pedunculate species.

The time of flowering and fruiting is of no special
interest, but the influence of situation exhibits some
interesting features. Latitude had naturally more
influence than longitude, and as the field of observa-
tion extended over 4h° of latitude, uninterrupted
by sea or ocean currents, or other disturbing factors,
the results obtained may be considered fairly
trustworthy. Every degree of latitude was found
to cause a difference of two to seven days in the
leatiug process, the comparisons being made between
stations of the same altitude. Longitude was found
to exert a slight but decided influence upon vege-
tation. From west to east every degree of
longitude made a difference of half a day later in
growth, probably owing to the influence of tho
Gulf Stream in the west, and the prevalence of
cold air currents in the east.

Altitude bad, of course, the greatest effect in
retarding or hastening growth, the stations being

grouped at every 100 metres. Up to an elevation
of 300 metres, no great difference was found to
exist, the lowest situations being frequently, how-
ever, behind those at a higher elevation. This was,
probably, owing to the late frosts, which occur in
low-lying situations. Above 300 metres, every
100 metres in altitude retarded vegetation by from
2 to 25 days.

Another point of interest was the duration of
growth, reckoning from the leafing in spring until
the colouring of the leaves in autumn ; and its
influence upon the production of wood. In the
observation field, the duration of vegetation
was found to vary to the extent of a month or so,
and this difference was responsible for a corre-
sponding difference in the yield of Beech of about
2i cubic metros per hectare a year. With the

dividuals growing side by side, or a cer-
tain number of individuals commence growth a
fortnight or three weeks before the average, it is
not unreasonable to assume that by growing such
early individuals, we gain much the same advan-
tage as would accrue from a warmer climate, or a
lengthening of the period of growth. In horticul-
ture the supply of fruit, flowers, and vegetables,
is considerably extended by such selection of
varieties, and if the question is of less economic
importance in the case of forest trees, it certainly
deserves consideration from a landscape point of
view. By the use of hardy individuals in a back-
ward climate, or a proper admixture of both early
aud late trees and shrubs, the beauties of both
spring aud autumn may be greatly intensified.
With our fickle spring climate, precocity is often

Fl(i. 14". — PROLIFEROUS BUMS OF 1'IXUS SYLVESTRIS.

Scots Fir rather a greater difference was observed
in West Germany, and rather less in East Ger-
many. The variations noted in individual years in
the leafing and duration of growth extended over a
period of thirty to thirty-five days in the former,
and thirty to forty-five days in the latter phase of
growth. Tho valleys of the chief rivers were noted
separately, the greatest difference being noted in
the case of the Elbe, the earliest leafing taking
place on April 9, and the latest on May 15, while
duration of growth varied from 140 to 1S.3 days in
tho ten years.

It will be noticed that the difference in time
between early and late individuals, localities, and
years, is very much the same as regards the period
of leafing, viz., thirty to forty days, and this coin-
cidence opens up a field of speculation as to how
far the influence of climate and situation may be
counteracted by a careful selection of seeds and
plants. If an iuterval of a month or six
weeks occur between the leafing of two in-

considered a disadvantage, and in some cases it may
be so ; but when we reflect that injurious late
frosts aud cold, cutting winds occur as frequently
in late as in early spring, it seems that no method
will effectually preclude all liability to climatic
injuries. Probably little can be done to enliven
the dull, monotonous green of a thickly-wooded
landscape in July and August, but by retarding
the spring and hasteniug the autumn foliage shades
and tints, the dull period might be shortened by
several weeks, and in effecting this, individuals
may play as important a part as species or varieties.
A. C. Forbes.

Scotland.

ROSES.
The alternating cold, wet, and intense heat
which have been thus far tho prominent meteoro-
logical features of the present year, have dealt

Joke 24, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

407

the whole not unkindly with the queen of flowers.
H.l'.'s and Teas while I write are in the pink of
condition ; foliage broad, bright green, and almost
without a flaw, though a slight incursion of aphis
has just been met and annihilated ; and the buds
are equally promising, and withal early. During
the whole of June we have been able to cut lovely
buds of W. A. Eichardson from the open, as well
as Gloire de Dijon and a few others, the trees of
which were pruned early in January. I am aware
it closely approaches a floricultural delinquency to
prune Roses early, and if it had not been that
a fairly lengthy course of practical dissent, in its
results not wholly unsuccessful, had rendered the
writer somewhat callous, the weather in March
must have beeu a cause of much grief, inasmuch as
all the Roses had already been pruned.

One might attempt to grapple with the physio-
logical bearing of the question, as for example, why

more so ; while the flexile shoots, clothed with
buds and expanded blooms, arranged in vases with
flowering shoots of the Early Cream Honeysuckle,
produce a soft, sweet, and harmonious effect of a
pleasing nature. Another very early single Rose was
sent me by Mr. Black from Carton ; the colour is
rosy-purple, and though the bloom is perplexingly
fugacious, it is, nevertheless, so pretty and so early,
that once grown one would not care ever to be
without it again.

Yet another single Rose which, as a large plant,
bloomed most profusely throughout the mouth is
Paul's Carmine Pillar. It is, of course, a popular
variety, and I only add that it must be left un-
pruned in order to be completely satisfactory.
Double Scotch Roses began early in the month to
exhibit the charms of their expanding blossoms.
Only in one respect are they disappointing, and
that is because of the very limited number of

South African Notes.

Wlr^t^i-^

Fig. 148. — anemoxe apennina, in the carden of philit cbowley, esq.,
waddon house, croydox,

a bare stump in the end of March should be less
able to resist cold than an unpinned bush ; or it
might be treated of as a matter of locality, and the
success of early pruning attributed almost entirely
to that — but iu any case, considering the great
pleasure attending the enlargement and extension
of the season of Roses, would it not be worth while
to be cautious just a little less, and bold a wee bit
more, as regards the time of pruning '! That, however,
by the way ; for the Roses I wish more particularly
to write of do not belong to the aristocracy of the
family.

I have been gathering from many quarters all
kinds of nice Roses, and among these are some
early ones that have been a very great delight.
The most perfect of all, whether in free-blooming
qualities combined with earliness, graceful habit,
and delicious scent of sweet Eglantine, is one
recommended to me by the late Mr. M. Dunn under
the name of Rosa elegantissima, which, though
cream-coloured, I have wondered if it might not be
the yellow Sweet Briar of seventy or eighty years
ago. Mr. Dunn employed the long shoots for
mixing among flowers, and on this account it is
very useful. But as a flowering plant it is even

Varieties it is possible to obtain. They have been
procured from several sources iucludiug Dalkeith,
but in every case they have largely turned out to
be merely duplications of a few varieties reaching
in number not far into the teens. Of their un-
doubted beauty, however, there can be no question,
and though the petals when full expansion has
been reached, drop very soon, yet they furnish so
many buds in varying stages of growth that a
display is provided during several weeks. The
very distinct and sweet Stanwell Perpetual begins
flowering at the same time with the above. I'. /'.
Brolherston.

ANEMONE APENNINA.

We are indebted to Mr. Crowley for the photo-
graph, showing a beautiful carpet of the blue
Anemone apennina under the shade of trees in the
wild garden. Nothing can be more pleasing than
the growth of such plants inappropriate situations,
as shown in our illustration (fig. 148) ; but when
these plants are allowed to intrude into the lawns
or dressed gardens, they become inappropriate, and
much of their beauty is lost,

THE FLORA OF JOHANNESBURG.

In Mr. Harry Bolus' excellent sketch of the
flora of South Africa nearly the whole of the
Transvaal is comprised in the g»eat (floral) Kalahari
region, which extends across South Africa from the
mouth of the Orange River on the west to within
nearly 300 miles of Delagoa Bay on the east.
Roughly speaking, it is bounded on the north by
the Tropic of Capricorn, and on the south by the
Orange River. It is a grassy country, elevated
above the sea from 1000 to 0000 feet, with isolated
trees and shrubs. The rainfall varies from about
5 inches on the west side to 2S inches on the east.
Rivers and springs are not very plentiful, but
immense stores of underground water are known to
exist at no great depth over a large part of the
region. The summer heat is very great, and the
winter on the higher ground is very cold.

The flora in the immediate neighbourhood of
Johannesburg is not very rich, but some interesting
plants have been met with— altitude 5000 to 6000
feet. The only tree we have (which was once
abundant, but has been cut for firewood) is an
Acacia, probably A. horrida ; and the next in point
of size and number is a Protea, which may be P.
abyssinica, with large, handsome, pale red flowers,
3 to 4 inches across. The largest specimen of this
seen was about 20 feet high, with a trunk 2 feet in
diameter. Two remarkable sub-tropical shrubs
are— a species of Star - Apple, Chrysophyllum
magalis montanum (common name, "Stem-fruit"),
an evergreen, large-leaved, Rhododendron - like
shrub, growing 10 feet high, and furnished with
very small, greenish, sessile flowers, and edible,
red, oval fruits, 1 inch long ; the other is a
rambling, evergreen, Jasmine - like plant, Lan-
dolphia capensis, with terminal clusters of white,
sweet-scented flowers, and fruits like a yellow
Peach (common name, "Wild Peach"), 2 inches
through, flavour pleasant, and much sought after
by the "boys." Both these plants only grow on
hill-sidee facing north (the warm side), where frost
is hardly ever known.

In similar places we find Clematis Stauleyi,
oertainly one of our finest flowering plants. It is
of erect, shrubby habit, growing 4 to G feet high,
aod dies down to the ground every winter ; the
flowers are many, pale blue or purple, about
2£ inches across, followed by very ornamental,
silver-white, fluffy seeds. It is difficult to trans-
plant or grow in a garden ; I have tried seeds,
cuttings, aud dug up roots with no success.
Clematis brachiata is a rather common plant with
small white flowers ; another climbing species has
much larger flowers, but I have never seen an
entire plant. Between rocks a showy orange-
yellow Gladiolus grows ; also Drcoma Zeyheri, with
hard, spiny, shining white bracts. Near- by, a
singular shrub with very woolly white leaves is not
uncommon ; it is Brachyltena sp., a Composite that
spreads over rocks and is of scandent habit. Ficus,
whose young leaves in spring are of a bright rose
colour. In rocky clefts we find a tuberous-rooted
rambling Cucumis, with showy red fruits ; a white
Hajmanthus, H. Bauri ; also two rather handsome
yellow- flowered Composites, Stobea radula and
Berkheya acicularis. Amongst rocks is an orange-
flowered succulent, Cotyledon orbicularis, and the
handsome, very dwarf, scarlet - flowered Aloe
L'ooperi. Mesembryanthemums might be expected
to be common, but I have only met with one dwarf,
red-flowered species, although a friend brought
me from outside the town a great curiosity —
a species with only two minute leaves, the soli-
tary yellow flower produced in the middle.
It belongs to Souder's sectiou Sphteroidea. A
species of Hebenstreitia, with many small white
flowers, is about 4 feet high. Hypoxis longifolia
is plentiful ; and a very curious moss-like plant is
Psammotrophe androsacea, with small, yellowish
flower-spikes, 3 inches high. I was surprised to
find a very small white Nerine growing in peat on

408

THE GABDENEBS' CHRONICLE.

[June 24, 1899.

dry, rocky shelves — a most unusual locality. Other
shrubs are Halleria lucida, with its small orange
flowers produced directly from the main trunk ;
Buddleia salvifolia, Rhamnus prinoides, and one or
two Rubus.

On sloping ground and dry flats a variety of
plants are met with. Gerbera Kraussii has rather
large white flowers ; a smaller species with pink-
rosy flowers is also common. An annual Nemesia,
with lilac blooms, is met with, and a very large-
leaved tuberous-rooted, rambling Ipomiea, with
large purple flowers. In early spring a very dwarf
white-flowered plant is common, looking like
patches of snow ; the flowers are very minute, and
numerous ; it is Helichrysum casspitosum, though
Harvey says that it scarcely differs from H. ericas-
folium. Another plant resembling the last in
habit and colour of flower is Selago phylicoides.

Amongst bulbs, we have a white and yellow
Albuca, the yellow Moroea polyanthus, a very
showy pink and white Brunsvigia, also B. toxicaria,
and the pretty purple Babiana Baiuesii. The blue
Pentanisia variabilis is rather common, with an
annual blue Lobelia and a yellow Seba?a. Calli-
lepis leptophylla is a showy white - flowered
herbaceous Composite, and Dimorphotheca Eckloni
of the same order has large, handsome, purple
flowers. Many Gomphocarpi abound, and Ascle-
piadea? ; one in particular given to me is, I believe,
a genuine Stapelia Planti, with its wonderful
corrugated, five-starred, purple flowers. There
are two or three bright rosy Indigofera, and one
showy, leguminous plant is Vigna angustifolia, a
prostrate herb, with long, tuberous roots, aud
large, very handsome, bright purple flowers. Cya-
notis nodiHora is also not uncommon.

In damp, marshy places there are a few plants
I must mention. Plocaudra purpurascens is about
a foot high with very many rich purple flowers,
J-inch across, growing in masses. Lythrum Nel-
soni is a heath-like shrub, 2 feet high, with spikes
of small rosy blooms. Gladiolus papilio is not very
common, but I once was fortunate in finding a
colony of several hundreds growing within a few
yards of each other. Several Tritomas, varying in
colour, from pale yellow to nearly snow white, are
met with. The Cape and Natal T. Urania is not
seen here. A climbing Asparagus grows in damp
shady places, and is much used for decoration.
Riehardia africana, so common in wet places in the
Cape and Natal, is not found here, but its place is
taken by several species with rather small cream-
coloured flowers, with or without a dark spot at
the base of thespathe, leaves green or white-spotted.
M. Leichtlin has discovered a new species amongst
some tubers sent him, aud named it after the writer.
The golden Richardias, Elliotiaua and Pentlandi,
are found in the Transvaal, but not near Johannes-
burg. The pink -flowered R. Rehmanni we have
found to become almost pure white under cultiva-
tion, which is a pity. By the sides of streams
grow Gunnera perpensa, Typha latifolia, Scbizos-
tylis coccinea, and a few dwarf sedges and rushes.
Nymphaa ccerulea I have seen in ponds a few
miles from the town. Striga coccinea is a dwarf
plant, parasitic, I believe, on the roots of grasses in
the open country, and possessing bright scarlet
flowers.

Of Orchids, I am unable to say much. No
Epiphytes are seen, owing to the dry, cold air. A
pretty yellow Eulophia aud the small, white, loug-
spurred llabenaria tetraptera are all I have met
with up to now. Eerns are also rare, though
Cyathea Dregei was once common in most sheltered
places. Now and then you see an Asplenium or
Cheilanthes, and still more seldom Adiantum
capillus-veneris, but Pteris aquilina is common.
The grasses are mostly species of Andropogon,
Anthistiria, Aristida, aud Cynodon. Mosses and
fungi are rare. We have no Heaths, Cycads,
Palms, Euphorbias, Begonias, Conifers, and hardly
a Pelargonium, except the allied species Monsouia.
As yet we have scarcely any imported weeds.

Such, in brief, is the native flora of this part of
the Transvaal, and 1 regret that 1 have no work on

the subject to assist me, except Harvey and Sonders'
Flora Oapensis, and its continuation, which affords
some information. On first coming here, I used to
take short botanical trips ; but of late years my
duties leave uo opportunity for doiug this, or
forming a herbarium. B. W. Adlam,Joubert Park,
Johannesburg.

HERMAPHRODITE FLOWER OF
BEGONIA GLOIRE DE LORRAINE.

Can fertile seed be obtained from this plant,
either from flowers crossed by its own pollen or by
that of any other species or variety ?

As far as my observation goes, no female flowers
are to be found till late spring or early summer, when
a few appear on the extremities of the branches ; at
the same time I have searched in vain for a particle
of pollen in any of the male flowers. Simul-
taneously with the development of the female
flowers, a considerable number of the males produce
among the stamens one, two, or even three more
or less perfect pistils ; quite unlike, however, those
of the regular female blooms, as the stigmas are
carried on the apex of a long column, and are two
or threelobed, their outer edges being fringed with

/?J*K^

Fig. 140.-

-BBRMAPHRODITE FLOWER OP BEOONIA
01 OIRE DE LORRAINE.

iunumerable delicate papilhe, which make them
beautiful objects under a low power of the bino-
cular microscope, lint in no case have I discovered
a trace of pollen in the imperfectly-formed stamens,
nor is there the least sign of the inferior ovary of
the genus Begonia. Is this an interesting reversion
towards an aucestral hermaphrodite form ?

It is well known that, both in the animal and
vegetable world, it is characteristic of such rever-
sions that neither the male nor the female organ is
otherwise than imperfectly reproduced. I enclose
a sketch of a flower (fig. 149), in which Nature has
made one tolerably successful, though useless, at-
tempt to form a pistil, together with two more
abortive ones. A. W. Wills.

The Week's Work.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By W. Struqnell, Gardener to the Right Hon. W. H. Long,
Rood Ashton, Trowbridge.

The Early Pot-Fins. — If these plants occupy a
house to themselves, and there is no prospect of
another profitable crop of fruit, remove them to
another house, preparatory to placing them out-of-
doors a little later. The Fig-house may then be
utilised for Melons, with or without bottom-heat.
The Fig-tree3 may be stood among indoor-plants, or
in other fruit-houses where overhead-light reaches

them, aud where the wood may get properly ripened
by the end of August, and they will be in a fit con-
dition for a start early ia the winter. Trees which
will not be forced so soon, or for which accommo-
dation does not exist, will afford a light crop if the
shoots are stopped occasionally, and manure-water
be afforded alternately with clear water. Failing
other manure, bone-meal sprinkled on the soil has
a good effect. The pots being filled with roots,
much moisture should be supplied. The Fig
suffers greatly from a species of scale-insect, which
appears from now onwards till the leaves fall. Hot-
water at 150° to 160°, as we know, is fatal to scale,
and it may be safely used on the Fig ; and those who
may have doubts as to its efficacy or its effects on
the plants, can easily put it to the proof in a small
way before proceeding to use it on all the trees. A
quick man with a pointed stick will clear a few
trees of the scale infesting them in a short space of
time. Young Figs raised from " eyes" this season
should be potted as fast as the roots fill the pots, as
should also older plants, if the object is to fruit
them in pots. Although not absolutely necessary,
it is better that the plants are freed from root-
suckers as soon as these appear. A goodly propor-
tion of broken mortar and plaster should be
employed in soil in which Figs are grown.

Strawberries. — Simultaneously with the closing
of the fruiting season of pot-Strawberries comes the
need to make preparations for the following year,
but it does not follow that I advocate immediate
layering. Except for very early forcing, there is
no necessity to layer any just yet, but the plants
set apart for the production of runners will be
benefited by having water copiously more or less
often during dry weather. The best runners for
early work are obtained from plantations made the
previous year, and which have not been allowed to
flower. I can recommend Royal Sovereign aud
Leader as being excelleut varieties for forcing. By
washing and crocking the p:>ts whenever an oppor-
tunity occurs time is economised, aud there wdl bo
less hurry when the work has to be done later on.
It is a matter of opinion whether Strawberry-
layers should be placed on the fruitiug-pot, or on
small pots or bits of turf, to be transferred to the
fruitiug-pots in July aud August. Each has its
advantages and disadvantages. For one thing, the
latter course requires the proportion of two sets of
pots, aud the other of only one.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By O. R. FfELDER, Gardener to the Dowager Lady Howard
de Walden, St. James's House, Malvern.

Azaha indica. — Plants which flowered early in
the year having finished growing aud set their
flower-buds, may be placed out-of-doors in a partially
suuny place to mature the wood, standing the pots
on a layer of coal-ashes, or, preferably, plunging
the pots in a bed of that material. Great attention
must be paid to affording water to these plants
during the ensuing three months that they will
pass out of-doors, sun and wind causing rapid
evaporation of moisture from the soil. A syringing
morning and evening will help to maintaiu tho
foliage in a healthy condition, and keep down thrips.
Those plants which, having flowered late, are now
making growth, may be assisted with an occasional
application of weak liquid manure, particularly
such of them as have not been repotted this season.
If an Azalea is much pot-bound, and likely to suffer
before it flowers again, it may be potted at the end
of July or early in August, care being taken not to
afford a large shift, or cause a renewal of growth.

Epacris, — Those plants which were cut back
after flowering, and when broken into fresh growth
were repotted, as advised in an earlier calendar,
will have made a considerable amount of growth in
the close house into which they were put, may be
gradually afforded more air before being placed
out-of-doors later ; and when the growth is com-
pleted, they may bo hardened off for a few weeks,
and then placed in a cold pit or common frame for
the rest of the summer. They will be the better
for a syringiug night and morning in fine weather,
and a thin shading thrown over the Ldass during
bright sunshine. When growth is quite complete,
the lights may be altogether removed.

Erica*. — The early-flowering species and varieties
now growing freely should have abundance of air
during the day, and in very warm weather a small
amount during the night. If the Ericas have to
be grown among other kinds of plauts, do not allow
these to prevent sun and air reaching the Ericas
on all sides, or the latter will suffer greatly. ( ireat

June 24, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

409

care is necessary in affording water to these plants,
as also to Epacris ; but where the drainage is in
good order, and the plants are growing freely,
liberal supplies are necessary and safe. To allow a
Heath to become very dry at the root is fatal.
Rain-water is best for them, and water impregnated
with chalk about the worst. A house or green-
house pit facing the north is more suitable for
Ericas at this season than oue having a southerly
aspect, it being cooler and less sunny, and conse-
quently there is less need for shading the plants.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By C. Herrin, Gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq.., Dropmore,
Maidenhead.

Apricots. — Chiefly by reason of the inclemency
of the weather while the trees were in bloom, the
Apricot crop is a thin one. This condition of the
trees is usually accompanied by a stronger wood
growth than usual, which is not favourable for the
prospects of a good crop. All strong shoots,
especially those which form a right angle with the
wall, should be pinched at the fourth or fifth leaf
reckoning from the base, and such of the strong
shoots desirable of being retained should be
depressed at the point, in order to check develop-
ment for a time at least, superfluous ones being
removed altogether, leaving ouly those for which
there is Space, and leaving them at 4 to 0 inches
asunder. The trees are so far healthy, and nearly
free from caterpillars, and wdiere the latter aro in
evidence they should be picked by hand, and
destroyed. An occasional syringing with clear
water in the early morning or eveuiug will keep
the trees in good order, Rapidly-swelling shoots
should be examined, and the pressure of a neigh-
bouring nail relieved by the removal of the latter,
or that caused by an overtight tie rectified, or
cankering of the shoot may occur. Where a good
crop of fruit has been secured, the final thinning
should now take place, and the fruits sent into the
kitchen for consumption in a variety of dishes.

Fig Trees having now made much growth, many
of the shoots will have to be removed, in order to
avert crowding. The leaves are of large size, and the
shoots necessarily require more space than do those
of other trained fruit-trees. The small laterals
should be rubbed off, and some young shoots coming
from the base of the tree trained in, to take the place
of those that have become generally fruitless, except-
ing towards the points. Train-in the shoots not less
than 0 inches apart, and nip out their points just
beyond the young fruits if further extension be
undesirable.

General Work. — During hot and drying weather
affording water to plantations of Strawberries,
Raspberries, and indeed to fruit-trees generally,
will be very necessary work ; and if newdy-planted
or severely root-pruned trees, and the rows of Rasp-
berries have not been afforded a mulch of half-
rotted manure this should be attended to forthwith,
and water copiously applied soon afterwards, i.e.,
before its manurial properties have had time to
evaporate.

TEE FLOWER GARDEN.

By A. Chapman, Gardener to Captain Holford, Westonbirt,
Tetbury, Gloucester.

Carnations and Picotces. — The dower-spikes of
those plants growing in borders and beds, if the
plants are intended for affording effect, should be
tied to neat stakes, making the ties sufficiently
loose to let the spike grow upwards without
crippling it. When the plants are grown merely for
affording flowers, it is a saving of time to support
the stems with the sprayey tops of peasticks or of
the birch placed between rows. This method if
applied to Pinks, and the white and double crimson
('loves, euables the flowers to be readily cut, and
keeps them clean. Carnations, &c. , in light soils,
should be frequently afforded diluted drainings of
the cow-stall mixed with some fresh soot, given in
a clear state, not muddy ; or a sprinkling of bone-
meal may be afforded. With this kind of treat-
ment, fiuer flowers, and stronger " grass'1 for
layering are obtained. The delicate pink-coloured
varieties, such as the Duchess of Fife, lose their
colour soon if exposed to much bright sunshine, and
they should be shaded during the sunnier hours.
In order to have fine Carnation blooms, the buds
should be thinned- to two or three on a shoot, each
with a footstalk.

Gladiolus. — If planted in beds by themselves, let
the ground be kept free from weeds, and if it be
of a heavy nature the surface should be often
stirred by the Dutch-hoe. In light soils frequent
applications of water and a mulching of horse-
droppings to the depth of 3 inches, spread eveuly
over the surface, should be afforded. To ensure
tbat no accidental loss of flower-spikes occurs, the
plants should be provided early with stakes, leaving
these at full length till the blooms commence to
show, whan they should be shortened back to the
height of the lowest flower in order to avoid the
bruising and rubbing of the blooms by the wind
forcing the flower-spike against the stake.

Vases and Tubs, when planted with bedding-
out or other plants, have a pretty effect on steps,
terrace-walls, aud margins of turf, and on balconies,
or as " dot " plants on the lawn, or plunged in
flower-beds. The bitter and sweet Oranges, ( (lean-
ders, Brugmansias, Sweet Bay, Myrtles, and Portu-
gal Laurel, will live in good health for years in tubs
with ordinary care, requiring but little protection
in the winter. Though it is usual to clip these
subjects into rigid shapes, they are more beautiful
when grown naturally, with just a little trimming
with a knife when inclined to become lopsided or of
too unwieldy a size. Such plants as Agapanthus,
Agaves, Hydrangeas, Fuchsias, aud Marguerites,
form good sized masses, aud can be placed in aspects
near the roots of trees wdiere beds could not well bo
formed. Tubs and vases look best when tilled with
plants of a good size, and sufficient mould employed
as will carry them through the season without loss
of foliage. Loam and leaf-mould make a suitable
compost. The tubs, &c, must be well drained and
made quite clean by scrubbing with hot water. Iu
the course of the season, the tubs, &c, get filled
with the roots of the plants, and it is then necessary
to pay very strict attention to affording water, or
the plants will sutler seriously. Where the soil
is not chalk}', Rhododendrons are successfully
grown in tubs, provided peat and sand be used in
planting them : or even in chalk districts, good
results are attainable if only rain-water be afforded
them. Ornamental liaskets and large vases have a
good effect when filled with foliage plauts and
Dowering plants of pendent habit, and planted near
the sides.

Hardy Fernery. -"—It is seldom at this season that
we get rain in sutticient quantity to reach the roots
of Ferns, and copious supplies must be afforded
them by means of a water-pot or hose, especially to
such moisture-loving plants as Osmundas, Poly-
stichums, Scolopendiums, and all Ferns which
form a dense canopy of fronds. It does the plauts
good to sprinkle the fronds morning and evening in
hot weather.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Yoono, Orchid Grower to Sir Fredbrick Wigan,
Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen.

Caltleya Warsecniezii, syn. C. (/if/as. — This plant,
as it goes out of flower, pushes forth roots at the base
of the newly-made pseudo-bulbs, and tins is a
proper moment for re potti ng or surfacing the plant,
which, if delayed much, are apt to prove injurious
to the plant. If the plant can be conveniently sus-
pended, a pan is best, otherwise, use an Orchid-
pot. Afford the plant ample drainage by placing
most of the crocks erect, use the best fibry peat,
and but little sphagnum-moss ; afford water
sparingly till the roots have seized upon the potting
materials, and if moisture should collect between
the sheathing bracts and the pseudo-bulbs, care-
fully unfold the former, so that it may evaporate,
as if allowed to remain the pseudo-bulb may be
lost.

Caltleya aurea and C. Rex. — When the flower-
sheaths appear in the new growths more water is
required by the plant, as also in the case of C.
Hardyaua and C. Massaiana ; and when, as in the
case of C. Warscewiezii, root action occurs, re-
pottiug, &c. , should be performed.

La lia albida. — This species will now be making
new roots, calling for fresh rooting-materials. For
this plant shallow perforated pans are best, and
these should be hung in a light and airy position in
the Mexican-house. The drainage of a pan must be
ample, and the surfacing and potting-mixture
should consist of peat and sphagnum moss. It is a
plant requiring very little moisture, and, excepting
when just developing its growths, but little

should be afforded. Ladia autumnalis is an Orchid
that requires similar treatment to the last named,
and L. furfuracea is a cool- house species which may
be hung near a ventilator, in a light house.

Lir/ia anceps. — Varieties should now be kept
well-moistened at the root with the syringe and the
watering-pot, and exposed to a good deal of sun-
light except during the brightest part of the day,
with abundance of air afforded, and every means
taken to encourage a sturdy growth.

Dendrobiums thyrsiflorum, densiflorum, Farmeri,
and ScJirSderm. — These plants should now be placed
in a growing atmosphere, and when the roots appear
at the base, afford the plants new material. Until
this time arrives, scarcely any water should be
applied ; but afterwards the compost should be kept
moistened, and the undersides of the leaves syringed
twice daily in bright weather. When the pseudo-
bulbs are grown to full size, remove to a suitable
position, where there is more light and air, affording
sufficient water to encourage root-action. Do not
expose the plants to draughts, or spotting of the
leaves will follow.

1>. mpschatum and I), fimbriatum. — Apply fresh
material to the plants, aud increase the supply of
water at the root. The plants may remain in the
East India-house permanently ; but if space can bo
found for the former in a slightly cooler and drier
house, it may be removed thereto when the
growths havo attained their limit.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By H. Markham, Gardener to the Earl of Strafforo,
Wrotham Park. Barnet.

Tomatos in the Open. — The plants, whether
grown against walls or fences, or fastened to stakes,
should be made secure, laterals frequently trimmed
oil', aud very vigorous leaves reduced in size ; ex-
cepting where the rooting space is small, then
the laterals only should be removed. The plants
must not suffer lack of water at the roots, otherwise
the flowers will not set satisfactorily. I have tried
various methods to induce the flowers to set, and
incidentally I have found that dry soil was the
cause of many of my failures. When a good set is
obtained, place a mulch of decayed manure over the
roots, and freely afford liquid-manure alternately
with clean water.

Asparagus. — From the present time the cutting
of Asparagus-heads should cease generally in the
South, and the beds receive a dressing of agricul-
tural-salt, nitrate of soda, guano, or fish-manure,
or failing these, of farmyard liquid-manure. The
artificials should not exceed at one dressing *2 oz. per
sq uare yard. If heavy rain fall, no water need be
afforded, otherwise they must be washed down to
the roots by a thorough application of water. All
weeds should be cleared off the beds before any-
thing is applied. Keep the land between the rows
of seedlings hoed frequently, aud failing an abun-
dant rainfall apply water which has been warmed
by exposure to the sun.

Scarlet, and other Runner Beans. — The rows of
plauts should receive their stakes before the bine
has run much, and a thick layer of manure
along the side of the rows if the land be light of
texture. If it be found dry on testing it, apply water-
plentifully, repeating the application if the weather
keeps dry and hot, iu order that the flowers may
set satisfactorily, dryness at the roots being one
cause of failure to set their flowers. Let the last
sowing be made forthwith in well-prepared and
moistened trenches, and before sowing the seed
steep it for a few hours in water.

Beetroot. — The main crop of Beetroots should be
singled, the plants being left at about 8 inches
apart. As some of the plants left for the crop
are sure to be loosened, however careful the
workmen may be in thinning, a good application
of water should follow the job, iu order to settle
tfce soil about them. Blank spaces in the lines may
be filled up by planting thinnings that are in a
perfect condition. If it can be managed, the whole
of this sort of work should be carried out in
showery weather.

Remarks. — The dry weather is telling injuriously
on most crops. Those gardeners who have made
preparations to meet a drought by heavdy manuring
and deep-trenching the land, will new »eap their
reward in vigorous plants, &8.

410

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 24, 1S99.

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 docs 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 be
of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is
desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

Newspapers. — Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish tlie Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY,

(■Windsor Rose and Horticultural
June 24-! Society's Show.

I Royal Botanic Society, Meeting.

TUESDAY, June

7_f Royal Horticultural Society Coin-
\ niittee (special prizes fox Roses).

WEDNESDAY, Juni 28

THURSDAY,

FRIDAY,

York Florists', Exhibition of Roses.
Rose and Horticultnial Shows at
Richmond, Croydon, Bath, Maid-
stone, Reading, and Ryde, I.W.
I Annual Dinner of the Gardeners'
V Royal Benevolent Institution.

fRoyal Horticultural Society of Ir»-
land, Exhibition.
June 29- Rose and Horticultural Shows at
Sutton, Canterbury, and Nor.
1. wich.

SALE.

T „n/ Imported and Established Orchids
J one M -j at proUleroe & Morris' Rooms.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick, London, for
the period June 11 to June 17, 1899. Height above sea.
level 24 feet.

1899.

i

o

1
%

H

PS

5

Temperature of
tbe Air.

Tempera-
ture OF THE

Soil at 9 a.m.

X

0

Cd
*
P

At 9 a.m.

i

a

S3
a

5.

4

<

g

a

<D

"3

P.

«

A

0

V

T3

«
M »

0. •<

S X

2 " Z
1-3 1^

A 1 A

s 1 3

a a

-! 2.

1»
fi

CO

W

tf

o

1
a)

CI

<

r

deg. deg. deg. deg.

ins.

deg.

deg.

deg. deg.

Sun. 11

E.S.E.

53-6 50-S (53-9 40-5

02-459-9

55-2 37'5

Mo>. 1 !

N.N.W.

59-9 55'S 70-7 44-7

60-959-5

555

37-0

TuE3. 13

N.N.E.

5S-9 51-s'oTj-8

4S-5

62-5,59-8

55-6

39-9

W D. 14

N.N.E.

50-7 46-7 61-1

41-8

...

60-5I59-8

55-6

31-0

Tju. 15

N.N.E.

01-9 53-6 71'4

39-3

... I5S-9J58-1

55-9

27-7

Fri. 16

E.X.E.

62-0

K1-U75-2

42-0

... (!l-6|59-2

55-9

34- 1

Sat. 17

E.S.E.

63-0

,-|7-::7S-0

45-9

... |62-P|59'5

55-9 30- 3

Tot.

Means...

58-7

52-8 08-4

44-1

61-4

59-5

55-7

34-8

Remarks. — The weather lias been generally dull, with drying

winds fror

l the noi

h and east, with very c

old n

igllt

.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 62'4\
Actual Temperatures : —

London.— June 21 (12 p.m.): Max. 73J ; Min. 583.
Provinces.— June 21 (6 p.m.): Max. 68"; Min. 6 4°, Sum-
burgh Head.
Close, dull ; some rain.

It is often said that a man's best

MAMemoiia)l™N memorial is to be folmd in the

work that he leaves behind
him. However true that may be as a rule, it
admits of many modifications. The case of
Malcolm Dunn is one of them. No man
worked in his time, and in his way, more
indefatigably than he for the advancement
of horticulture and forestry, and the welfare
of all connected with them. And yet now
that his active brain and warm heart are still,
what is there to show for all the work he did I
Little or nothing ! little or nothing, that is,

that is tangible. Little or nothing which
will appeal to the sympathies of the next
generation. We cannot expect that our suc-
cessors who will know of Malcolm Dunn only
as a name, will feel the same sense of a great
loss that we do who saw what he did, and what
manner of man he was.

Dunn wrote no books — his articles, which
■were numerous, were always unsigned, he
did not advertise himself or seek to further
his own interest in any way. He worked
for the good of the cause, and that was enough
for him. But this reticence on his part only
offers an additional inducement to us to do
for him and for his memory that which 'he
would not have done himself. A few short
years and his name will be only a name, unless
we do something to perpetuate the memory of
his good works. We have two strong induce-
ments to do this — the one is common grati-
tude : we are grateful to such a man for all that
he did ; the other is the recognition of the
example he set us. We have our duties to
perform, and he has set us an example that we
shall do well to follow. Specially we shall do
well to do something that will be commemo-
rative— not of the man, that, we are sure,
would have been distasteful to him ; but of the
work that he did, something that will tend in
some way or another either to the promotion
of the art he loved so well, or to the lightening
of the load of pain and trouble that needs must
often fall upon its practitioners.

The Societies with which Mr. Malcolm Dunn
was especially associated have appropriately
taken joint action with a view to do honour to
the memory of the man who so disinterestedly
exerted himself in all that concerned the welfare
of horticulture. The joint committee has issued
the following appeal, which it is to be hoped will
be heartily responded to : — ■

"Malcolm Dunn Memorial Fund.

" The news of the sudden death of Mr. Malcolm
Dunn, on 11th May, at Dalkeith Palace Gardens,
where he had been gardener for nearly twenty-eight
years, must have come upon all who knew him as
a great shock.

Although a gardener by profession, his interest
did not end there. Horticulture, Botany, and
Arboriculture are to-day all reaping the benefit of
his great energy and devotion.

Looking to this general interest displayed by
Mr. Dunn, it has been agreed upon by the Royal
Caledonian Horticultural Society, the Botanical
Society of Edinburgh, the Royal Scottish Arbori-
cultural Society, and the Scottish Horticultural
Association, with all of which he was intimately
identified, to unite in issuing a joint appeal to the
many friends of Mr. Dunn throughout England,
Scotland, and Ireland, for Funds to perpetuate his
memory ; and it is proposed that, after erectiug a
suitable monument in Dalkeith cemetery, the
balance should be devoted to charitable and
educational objects in connection with horticulture
and arboriculture.

In issuing this appeal, the councils of the four
societies feel assured that there are very many who
will gladly join in raising such a memorial as is
proposed, and thus testify to their appreciation of
Mr. Dunn's worth, and to the kindly help and
advice which he so freely gave.

Subscriptions will be received and acknowledged
by any of the undersigned, in name of the
respective societies, P. Murray Thomson, Secre-
tary, Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society, 5,
York Place, Edinburgh ; James A. Terras,
Assistant-Secretary, Botanical Society of Edin-
burgh, 21, Teviot Place, Edinburgh ; Robert
Galloway, Secretary, Royal Scottish Arbori-
cultural Society, 5, St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh ;
Robert Laird, Secretary, Scottish Horticultural
Association, 17, Frederick Street, Edinburgh."

Now that we have approached
Glasshouses? tne warmest part of the summer,
it is a question that each gar-
dener must settle for himself, how much or
how little shading is beneficial to his fruit-trees,
Amines, Pine-apples, Melons, and Cucumbers
under glass. A good deal depends on the con-
struction of the houses and pits, their aspects,
the latitude and altitude of the place. That,
where sunshine is intense and long-continued,
some sort of portable light shading-material
benefits the various plants after this date, goes
without saying, and should be afforded, say,
from 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m., taking it off the
glass whenever the sky becomes in the least
degree cloudy.

During the prevalence of bright sunshine and
the hours of greatest heat, the evaporation of
moisture from the plants and from the soil is
greatest, and the process is, of course, accele-
rated by the glass coverings ; hence the abso-
lute necessity for repeated damping down of
walls and paths, for unless some kind of equi-
librium be brought about, the plants cease to
grow satisfactorily. We know from experience
that shading and damping down may be carried
to excess, and it is probably due to this fact
that the Melons of the present day are gene-
rally deficient in flavour, that Vine foliage is
sometimes warty and flabby, and that fungous
diseases are common on Tomatos and Cucum-
bers. We have, each for himself, to discover
the happy mean in shading and damping down,
for although, apparently, these are matters of
great simplicity, they cannot be entirely taught
by Calendar or press writers. How often has
the writer of this note had to rush away from
some important job in the flower garden or
kitchen garden, maybe, to put on or take off
shading and air in Pine, Melon, and Cucumber
and plant-houses and pits, or from the never to
be too highly valued contents of the propagating-
frames standing on hot-beds !

Vines and Figs will withstand almost any
amount of sun-heat that we get in this country
— or in Europe, for that matter — if attention be
paid to timely ventilation, beginning in summer
weather at 7 or 7.30 a.m., by affording what is
understood by a "chink of air" at the top of
the houses. Much of the scalding of berry and
leaf brought to our notice is caused by lack of
attention to this one point. During the fitful
months of March, April, and May, the risk of
scalding is greatest, the foliage being extremely
tender, and the bursts of sunshine so erratic
that the attention of the gardener dare not be
relaxed for a quarter-of an-hour in the period
from 7 a.m. to 3 or 3.30 p.m.

Provided the glass is of a good quality, and
the ventilation what it should be, no scalding
will occur in a vinery built according to either
old or new fashions. Even without damping
down it would not occur.

In Pineapple culture in the south and midland
counties, scrim-shading should always be used
during the hottest weather from the end of May
till the beginning of August ; less over plants
with ripening fruits than over suckers or suc-
cessions, or plants about to show flower. But
in the case of these plants even scrim should
not be put on earlier than 10.30 a.m., nor
kept on later than 2 p.m., with air given to
keep the degree of warmth at about 80= to 90°,
according to the age of the plants.

If Cucumbers are grown by the so-called
express method — that is, with much heat and
moisture, and scarcely any ventilation — the
glass is so bedewed with moisture during the
day that burning seldom occurs ; but where a

Jitne 24, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

411

less unnatural system is adopted, a thin shading
is of benefit to the plants— as also for Melons,
unless the pits or houses are very roomy ones,
when shading is better dispensed with, and the
temper? ture regulated as far as need be by
ventilation only.

Our experience with Tomatos is, that shading
is an evil, as is an over-moist atmosphere in the
structure in which the plants are grown. A
moderately hot, dry treatment, with not un-
limited application of water to the root, suits
the plant best ; in fact, just that which would
breed red-spider in most other plants.

Our old friend, the bast-mat, is not much in
use in modern gardens ; still, it has its uses. It
is handy, if there be no wind to waft it to a
distance, for throwing over a plant or batch of
plants in flower, or some newly-potted, in a
stove or greenhouse, or in hot or cold pits,
when perhaps total shading of the structure
would be undesirable ; otherwise, its value as
a shading material has departed, with the
blue apron and the head gardener's stove-
pipe head covering. As shading for Melon,
Cucumber, and Pines, the bast-mat is an
abomination. The slat or split bamboo shading,
easily applied when fixed to rollers, is one of the
best and most enduring of these contrivances.

CATTLEYA MOSSI/E (see Supplement).— Cat-
tleya Mossiaj is one of the best known and largest-
rlowered species of the whole genus ; it is, however,
seldom seen in such vigorous health as shown in
our illustration. The plant in question is not a
newly imported one, it having been in the Deep-
dene collection for several years. It is a very tine,
healthy specimen, and measures just over 3 feet
across ; altogether, there were sixty - six fully
expanded flowers. The variety is a very good one,
but uufortuuately the brilliant colouring of the lip
cannot be reproduced by photography. The plant
is to be named Cattleya Mossise var. Lily Duchess
of Marlborough, and to her we are indebted for
the opportunity of giving this illustration.

Royal Horticultural Society.— The next

fruit and floral meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society will be held on Tuesday, June '27, 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 " Some of the
Plants Exhibited," will be given by the Rev.
Prof. Geo. Henslow, M.A.

Exhibition of Hybrid Plants at Ohiswick,

Tuesday, July 11, 1899. In connection with the
International Conference on Hybridisation, the fol-
lowing Awards will be made, viz. : — 1. A Veitch
Memorial Medal to the raiser of the best new fruit
intentionally raised by cross-breeding or hybri-
disation in Great Britain, and never previously
exhibited. 2. A Veitch Memorial Medal to the
raiser of the best new flower (Orchids excluded),
intentionally raised by cross-breeding or hybri-
disation in Great Britain, and never previously
exhibited. 3. A Veitch Memorial Medal to the
raiser of the best new Orchid, intentionally raised
by cross-breeding or hybridisation in Great Britain,
and never previously exhibited. 4. A Veitch
Memorial Medal to the raiser of the best new vege-
table, intentionally raised by cross-breeding or
hybridisation in Great Britain, aud never previously
exhibited. 5. A Veitch Memorial Medal to the
raiser of the best new fruit, intentionally raised by
cross-breeding or hybridisation out of Great
Britain, and never previously exhibited. 6. A
Veitch Memorial Medal to the raiser of the best
new flower (Orchids excluded), intentionally raised
by cross-breeding or hybridisation out of Great
Britain, and never previously exhibited. 7. A Veitch
Memorial Medal to the raiser of the best new
Orchid, intentionally raised by cross-breeding or
hybridisation out of Great Britain, and never pre-
viously exhibited. 8. A Veitch Memorial Medal

to the raiser of the best new vegetable, inten-
tionally raised by cross-breeding or hybridisation
out of Great Britain, and never previously exhi-
bited. The above Medals will only be awarded
should the exhibits be considered sufficiently
meritorious, and the result of intentional, not
accidental, cross-fertilisation. Exhibitors must
give full details in writing as to parentage, and
record any other points which may assist the
Judges. 9. A Williams' Memorial Medal to the
best collection of hybrid and cross-bred plants.
W. Wilks, Secretary.

Horticultural Club. — At the usual monthly

dinner of the Club ou June 13, the chair was
occupied by Mr. Harry J. Veitch, vice-chairman
of the Club. The chief business in hand was the
arrangement for the dinner to be given to the
distinguished foreign visitors who are expected to
attend the Hybridisation Conference. The dinner
will be given on Tuesday, July 11, and the chair
will be occupied by Sir J. D. T. Llewelyn, Bart.,
M.P., chairman of the Club.

Rose Show Fixtures. —Mr. Edward Maw ley
wishes us to acquaint our readers with the facts
that the Rose Show at Newcastle-on-Tyne, will be
opened on July 19, that at Liverpool on August 3 ;
and that the date of the Eltham Rose Show is
changed from Jane 29 to July 13.

The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Insti-
tution.— The sixtieth anniversary festival dinner
of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution
will take place ou Wednesday next, June 28, at the
Whitehall Rooms, Hutel Mutropole, at li.30 for
7 o'clock precisely, when the Chair will be taken by
the Rt. Hon. the Earl of Derby, K.G., G.C.B.

The Hybridisation Conference.— In view
of the great importance of the subject, we shall
probably commence, in our next issue, a series of
notes by various writers, on the development by
means of cross-breeding of several of our garden
flowers, aud a number of portraits of representa-
tive men who have beeu or are instrumental in the
improvement of our flowers and fruits by the
practice of cross-breeding or hybridisation. The
meetings of the Conference will be held at Ohiswick
on July 11, and on the following day at the
Westminster Town Hall.

■■Flowers and Flower - culture" (The
Every - day Help Series). By H. W. Ward
(London : Walter Scott, Limited). — The scope of
this little book will be understood when it is stated
that it is divided into chapters dealing with the
flower-garden, bedding-plants, herbaceous plants,
the greenhouse, Chrysanthemums, Roses, room and
window plants, marketing flowers, bees in the
garden, aud propagating plants respectively. Mr.
Ward has a practical knowledge of his subjects"
beyond that of most people, and he writes clearly
and plainly, and with an appreciation of the
requirements of his readers. His guide contains,
practical hints for the horticulturist, and in many-
cases the names of the best sorts of plants for
special purposes are given. The intention is,
evidently, not so much to instruct the experienced!
professional as to furnish the amateur with useful
reminders, arranged iu a form convenient for'
reference, and yet unencumbered with wearisome
detail.

Proliferous Rose. — Messrs. Brayley &
Sons send us an example of prolilication in the-
Rose. The hep or pistil is entirely abseut ; the
sepals, petals, and stamens are normal. Iu the
centre of the flower is a young shoot, terminated by
a flower. The case is by no means an uncommon,
one, but is always interesting to those concerned in.
the structure of the flower.

The " Flora " Charlottenburg. — The'

"Flora" Garden, whose existence dates from the'
" Founding epoch," and which was laid out on the
pattern of the establishment of the same name at
Cologne, and the " Palme n Garten " at Frankfort,

but like the first without succeeding in exercising
an effect upon horticulture, and becomiug merely
a place of public amusemeut, has been sold for
building purposes, and the company dissolved.

Decayed Two-year-old Pine Needles.— It
would at first hand be a poser to say to what
particular use decayed Pine needles could be
usefully put, beyond being placed in a heap in a
moist place or under the shade of trees to still
further decay, and be at length converted into
leaf-mould. A correspondent, writing in Gardening,
a horticultural journal published at Chicago, states
that he buried some Hydrangeas one foot deep in
two-year-old Pine-needles as a protection against
frost, and found in the spring, on uncovering the
plants, that the Hydrangeas had pushed forth a
mass of roots into the heap of Pine-needles. In
undecayed needles it may be stated that no plants
ever put forth roots ; and it would appear that
gardeners have in decaying Fir-needles an admi-
rable rooting material in which to layer Rhododen-
drons, Kalmias, Audromedas, and other evergreen
and deciduous plants with the certainty of obtaining
good results.

Flowers in Season. —We have received from
Mr. John Green, Norfolk Nurseries, Dereham,
some spikes of his new everlasting white Pea,
Lathyrus latifulius albus granditlorus, and which
last August was awarded a First-class Certificate
by the Royal Horticultural Society ; and also last
July a First-class Certificate by the Norfolk and
Norwich Horticultural Society. The following
extract is from the journal of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, vol. xxii, part 3, page cxlix.
"Award of Merit to Lathyrus granditlorus alhus
(votes unanimous), from Mr. Green, Dereham.
A vigorous-growing seedling everlasting Pea, with
stout spikes of unusually large pure-white flowers,
an exceptionally free-flowering variety." The
spikes and the flowers were very tine and of great
decorative value, either cut or growing. It is not
yet in commerce, but will be sent out as soon as
ever sufficient stock can be raised.

A Disclaimer.— In a review of Lord he
Tabley's Flora of Cheshire, C. Wolley-Dod
is named as a recent contributor to the Cheshire
Flora. The person intended is not myself,
but my son, Major Anthony Wolley-Dod of the
Royal Artillery, who has done a good deal of work
in our native Flora. Charles Wolhy-Dod, Edije
Hall, Malpas, June 18, 1899.

Rhododendrons in Reqent's Park.—
Messrs. J no. Waterer & Co., Bagshot Nurseries,
Surrey, have again this season made an exhibition
of Rhododendrons in a marquee in the Royal
Botanic Society's Gardens at Regent's Park. On
Monday and Tuesday last special invitations to
view these abundantly-flowered plants were ac-
cepted by upwards of 21100 persons. The site of the
exhibition is the same each year, and the beds,
some high, some low, and of varying shapes and
sizes, are also the same. What variety is intro-
duced, therefore, is due to the manner in which
the beds are planted. The site could indeed
be hardly laid out to better advantage for
such an, exhibition, and an effect is obtained
from the whole, viewed from any part of the
marquee that is a capital advertisement of the
beauty and showiness of the Rhododendron. These
hardy Rhododendrons have been crossed and
re-crossed with each other so many times and
in so many ways, that the variety obtained ia
such that to name each one must entail con-
fusion that in some degree is not necessary.
But extra good varieties must be named in order
to perpetuate them with certainty, and for
commercial purposes. Pink Pearl is one of the very
best Rhododendrons, but this novelty did not
happen to be in flower. Gomez Waterer is
almost as large in the flower as Pink Pearl, the
colour being white or palest blush, with bright
green spots upon the upper petal. A few
other noticeable varieties in the collection

412

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 24, 1S89.

were Madame Carvalho, pure white with green
spotting : Queen, white, upper petal marked with
buff; Kate Watever, rich clear rose colour,
the upper petal having green spots on a white
ground ; CounteS3 of Tankerville, rose, with a
whitish centre ; Duke of Conuaught, a capital white
variety, with yellow spotting, very distinct;
Michael YVaterer, a bright crimson self; B. W.
Elliott, clear rose colour, with deep spotting ;
W. E. Gladstone and Lady Ellen Cathcart, both
rose-coloured flowers ; Mum, a white, very free
floworer, producing splendid trusses, and probably
one of the best for forcing in early spring ; Conces-
sum, rose-coloured with lighter centre; T. B. .
Hayes, white, with chocolate-red blotch, suggestive
of the stains on a Pelargonium ; Helen Waterer,
bright red with white centre, a fine variety ; auel
Album grandiflorum, white with yellow spotting,
an old but valuable variety. The display will
soon be past, but is a little later than the show in
the Bagshot Nurseries, owing to the retarding effect
of moving the plauts when in bud, and to the tent
protecting the flowers from bright sunshine.

Publications Received.— From theMichigan state

Agricultural College Experiment Station, Bulletin 168,
February: Michigan Fruit List, L. R. Taft. — Also Special
Bulletin No. 11, March: Frozen Irees and their Treatment,
L. It. Taft. — Finland, an English journal, devoted to the cause
nl' the Finnish people. No. 1, June. Edited by C. II.
Perrutt (offices, 106, Victoria Street, 8.W.).— Halifax natu-
ralist, Vol. IV., No. 20, June, contains paptrs on {lie
Autumn Crocus, by W. B. Crump ; Sliibden Hall (illus-
trated), by John Longbottoin : a biographical note on the late

Henry Tl as Si ■]=] n 1 1 (with portrait); also as an inset,

some pages of the Flora of Halifax, by W. B. Cramp. —
Schedule of the Exhibition of British-Gi ouyn Fruit to he held by
the Royal Horticultural Society at the Crystal Palace mi
September 28, i':', ami SO — Album des Orchidies, par II.
Cm h'voii (Paris : Doin)

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Gladiolus Qoahtinianus superbuSj Garden, June :;, L8P0.
Bee Gardeners' Chronicle^ December 81, 1898, p. 4G7.

Salvia Gondoti, Bentlj.— Flower* crimson, in terminal
rarctiM's; Hi: me de J'lI'irliaiHurc Beige, June.

TlUCMANDKA ERICOIUES VAR, BIRS1 I i, Re\ l(C dt V lloHi-

cullun Beige, June. ■

Tka Rose Souyenir de Pierre Nottino, raised )>y Messrs.
Soupert & Notting, Luxemburg, from seed soa n in May, 1894.

The parents are Mareclial Kiel V, Manian Cochct cJ. Colour
of flower golden yellow, with a tender reddish shade upnn it.
Very free, a vigorous grower, with a 1< ng, filbert-shaped bud.
Goad for. forcing, as the second growth reaches a length of
s to 12 inches. Figured in the Deutsche Gartner Zeitung,
June 17, 1899.

Ireland.

•

DUBLIN WEATHER.
OtJK gardeners are complaining they are in want
of raiu, the tropical weather experienced of late
having told severely on all kinds of crops. A change
set in a few days ago, and instead of the bright
sun&bine, we have had an occasional shower, and
plenty of dark threatening clouds ; but the rain
was of too brief duration to be of much benefit to
plants, aud the expected is deferred. Farmers
around Dublin are enabled to forward a large con-
signment of Fotatos to market, the warm weather
having told immensely in their favour, and the
early arrivals are of a good size and flavour, an
unusual occurrence in Ireland.

The Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland.

The usual monthly meeting of the Council of the
above Society was held on Tuesday afternoon, the
13th inat., at their offices, til, Dawson Street,
Major Doin vile, J. P. , occupied the chair. The follow-
ing members of the Council were present : — Surg.-
General Beaumont, M.l>. ; Mr. Robertson,.!.]'. ;
Mr. D. Ramsay, Mr. II. Small-man, and Mr. W. H.
Hillyard (secretary). After the minutes of the last
meeting were read and duly signed, the principal
item of business before the Council was to settle
the pending final arrangements for the forthcoming
Rose show. After a brief discussion, the arrange-
ments were completed. The secretary then sub-
mitted a list of names vtith a view to their being'
elected members of the Society, which was
sanctioned.

IRIS BULBS DISEASED.

Two years ago some diseased bulbs of Iris
reticulata were sent to the Gardeners' Chronicle
from Southport for examination, but owing to
the material being immature, nothing was done at
the time.

During the present season the same disease,
occurring on the same host, has been received
from two widely separated localities. The parasite
is a fungus which forms blackish patches on the
surface of the bulb ; these patches are at first
small iu size and few in number, but gradually
increase in size and run into each other, when the
bulb presents the appearance of having been
charred. At first the fungus is quite superficial,
and the bulb can be saved if prompt measures are
employed ; finally, however, the mycelium of the
fungus permeates throughout the tissues of the
bulb, which soon decays.

y/A*

Fli:. 150. — DISEASE nl r I : I -s : B1YSTA09FOIUUM AW'-ITM.

3, Bulb of Iris reticulata, diseased ; nal. size.

2, Spores in various stages of development, X 400.

3, Spore germinal ii g, 400.

If a fragmeut of the black crust is examined
under a microscope, it is seen to consist of brown,
much branched, interwoven byphffi, bearing
myriads of very large, dark-brown spores, borne
singly at the tips of short, lateral branches.

Preventive means. If only superficially attacked,
soaking in a solution of one part formalin to 4(10
parts water for one hour, will destroy the fungus
without at all injuring the bulbs. Bulbs that
are badly attacked should be burned, and as the
black crust breaks away readily from diseased
bulbs and remains iu the ground, it would not be
wise to use such infected ground for bulbs for some
time to come.

The following is a technical description of the
fungus which proves to be an undescribed species,
allied to —

MystroBporiv/m alliorum, Berk., a parasite on
cultivated Onions ; the latter, however, differs in
the smaller, mimiU-ly-warted spores.

Mystrosporium ddustuht. — Maculis crustaceis,
indeterminatis. facile secedentibus, colore nigro ;
hyphis in fasciculos densos congestis, septatis,
ramosis, fuscis, hie illic inflatis ; conidiis solitarie
acrogenis, elliptico-fusoideis, 5—7 septato-murifor-
mibus, ad septa non constrictis, timbrioo dein
opacis, glaber, 40— b'U x 20— 2ii n. Geo. Mmtsei.

THE DARWIN STATUE at OXFORD.

A life-sized statue or Charles Darwin by Mr. Hope Pinker,

presented to the University of Oxford by Professor Poo.ll

Hope Professor of Zoology, was unveiled at the University
Museum on the 14th inst., an 1 Sir Joseph D. Hooker delivered
an address upon the occasion.

Bii Joseph Hooker said the fact of their having commenced
""'lr scientific careers under very similar conditions favoured
the rapid growth of a bond nl friendship between Mr. Darwin

and himself. We both of us, he itinued, immediately alter

leaving our respective Universities, commenced active life as
naturalists under the Hag of the Royal Navy; heas a volunteer
i i i' pi are b ifore me, who was an official. We both sailed round
th ■ wort 1, cjlbctin ; aud observing often ia the same regions,

many. if them at that time seldoM visited and sin
accessible to science by his researches— the Cape Verd Islands,
St. Helena, Rio, the Cape of Good Hope, the Falkland Islands',
Terra del Puego, Tasmania, and New Zealand, ( In returning
tn England we both enjoyed the rare advantage of the counsel
and encouragement of one of the greatest leaders in science
of the time— Mr., afterwards Sir Charles, Lyell.

The Journal of Bcsearclm int. //..■ Statural Hi..;

ftlu Countries Visited during the Voyage of the B ogle,
was then passing through the press, and the proof-sheets lent
to me for perusal, because 1 was then preparing to accompany
■Sir James Ross as a naturalist on the Antarctic expedition

(1S33 12). At that particular i I was engaged in engrossing

hospital dutiM, and I si ept witlrthe proofs under my pillow,
that I might, at once, on aw. iking, devour their contents.

Shortly after the arrival of the Antarctic expedition (in
1st;), I receivtd from .Mr. Darwin a long letter, wan. ill con
gratulating me on my return, diiectiugmy attention to the

importai f correlating the flora or Fuegia with those of

| irdillera, and of European I inviting me to study and
publish the botanical collections which be had made, in the
Galapago Islands, Patagonia, and Puogia.

VISITS i" i-\i;u is AT DOWN.

1 '■' ' io1 '" ;i" interchange ol views on the subject of

6 jrapWcal distribution, followed by an invitation to visil

him at what he used to call his inaccessible home at Down,
which was then eight or ten miles distant from the nearest
railroad station, 'tins 1 joyfully accepted; and th.-u com-
menced Hi ii friendship which ripened raj. idly into reelings of
esteem and reverence for his life, works, and character that
were never cldnded for one instant during the forty sub-
sequent years of our joint lives. During the many visits to
Down which followed, he laid before me without reserve, not
•oily his va, t stnres of knowledge, but his mature and
immature speculations and theories, describing bow they
originated, dwelling on their influence on the progress of Ins

" icai'ches. Ai ig these, so long ago as 1S44, was his sketch

of TheOrigin ,.i Species, which I was the first to see of the
few friends t" whom hi- ever showed it. Atthatverj earls
pnii. I of my own studies I failed to grasp its full significance.

On t' casions oi many other visits it was Mr. Darwin's

practice in ask me, shortly after breakfast, to retire with him
to his study for twenty minutes or so. when he br. night out a

long list of questions to put tn n n the botanical subjects

then . I. pging his attention. These questions were sometimes
answered offhand", others required consideration, and others
a protruded research in the herbarium, ur in the gardens at
Kew. The answers were written on slips of paper, which
were deposited in bags or pockets that hung against the wall
within reach of his arm, each of them a reeept icledevoted to a
spc ill objeel of enquiry. To me this operation of "pumping,''
as he called it, was most instinctive. As his health
fluctuated or declined, and especially during his sharper
attacks of illness, these interviews became intermittent,
and on such occasions he would ask me to bring my own work
with mi' I.. Down, where I pursued my studies free from the dis-
tractions of Kew, and with the advantages of his counsel and aid
whenever desired. These morning interviews were followed by
his taking a complete rest, for they always exhausted him.
These attacks were followed by a period of what with him was
the merest approach to health, and always to activity.
8h ntly before lunch I used to heir his mellow voice under
my window, summoning me to walk with him, first to inspect
the expei iments in his little plant houses, and then to take a
precise number of rounds of the 'sand walk," which he
trudged with quick step, staff in hand, wearing a broad-
brimmed straw hat and light shooting-coat in summer, and a
felt-hat and warm cape in winter. This walk was repeated in

the afternoon ; on both thes sessions his conversation was

delightful, animated when he was well enough, never depress-
ing however ill he might be. Ic. turned naturally on the
scenes we had witnessed in far-away regions, on anecdotes of
mtr sea-faring lives, and on (lie discoverer's in science, then,
as now, hurrying onwards, and treading on one another's
heels in their haste for recognition. In the evening we had
books an I mu^ic, of which latter Mr. 1). it-win was. during the
first few years of our friendship, almost passionately fond ; it
is a curious fart that music should have had in after life no1
charm for hiin— that" it set him thinking too energetic illy

June 24, 1899.]

THE' ' GAR DENE US' CHRONICL E

413

at what he had been at work on Instead of giving him
pleasure."

If I were asked what traits in Mr. Darwin's character
appeared to me most remarkable during the many exercisesof
hiB intellect that I was priviledged to bear witness to, they
mould In', Brat, his self-controj and indomitable perseverance
under bodily suffering; then his ready grasp of difficult
problems; and, lastly, the power of turning to account the
waste observations, failures, and even the blunders of hie
pre.h'Ci-ssnrs in whatever subject of inquiry. It was tlm
powefl of utilising the vain efforts of nthers whu-h in my
fiicrnl .Sir. I mis Paget'? opinioq afforded the best evidence of
Darwin's genius. Like .so many men who have been greal
discoverers, or whose works or writings are proofs of theii
having intellects indicating greal originality, he was wont to
attribute his success to industry rather than ability. "It is
Lthatdoes it," was an expression he often made use of.
In his autobiography he says of himself— "My industry has
been nearly as great as it could have been in the observation
and collection of facts;" and, again, "of the complex and
diversified mental qualities and conditions which determined
my success as a man of science, I regard as the must imp. irtant
the love of science— unb mnded patience in long reflecting
orer many subjects - industry in observing fact, and a
fail- share of invention as well* as of common sense."
In this introspection he has, if my judgment is cor-
rect, greatly undervalued "invention;" that is, originality
or that outcome of the exercise of the imagination which is
so conspicuous in every experiment he made or controlled,
and in the genesis of every new fact or idea that he firs,!
brought to light. R^fi-i-ting to his disregard when possible
of his bodily sufferings, i remember his once saving to me
that his sleepless nights had their advantages, for they
enabled him to foiget his hours of misery when recording the
movement of his beloved plants from dark to dawn and day-
break. For those other qualities of head and heart that

(fig. 151)*. This plant appears to be either a natural
hybrid brought about by insect agency, and there-
fore remarkable in Viuca, or a half reversion of the
white form to the original violet condition. W. G. S.

FlO. 151.— A HYBRID VINCA MINOR,

endeared Mr. Darwin to his friends, I must ref-ir you to the
Life "in! Letters. There is only one upon which I would
comment, it is tint passage of his autobiography where he
says, "I have no great quickness of apprehension or wit."
Possibly the "of" and "or" are here transposed ; whether
br no, my impression of his conversation lias left the opp isite
as characteristic of him. It is at any rite inconsistent with
the fact thai in arguing he was ever ready with repair
many times experienced to my discomfiture, though never to
my displeasure ; it was a physic so thoughtfully and kindly
exhibited. And I may conclude these fragmentary re tords with
an anecdote which goesj 1 think, to support my view, and
which 1 give, if not verbally correctly, as nearly as my
memory of so ancient an episode permits, I was describing
to him the reception at the Linnean Society, where he was
unable to be present, of his now famous account of "The
two Forms or Dimorphic Condition of Primula," for which he
booh the common Primrose as an illustration. On that
occasion, an enthusiastic admirer of i'.s author got up, and
in concluding his Uoge likened British botanists who had
overlooked so conspicuous and beautiful a contrivance to
effect cross-fertilisation to Wordsworth's " Peter Bell,"
because— -

" A Primrose on the river's brim,

A yellow Primrose was to him,

An 1 it was nothing more."

When I told Mr. Darwin of this he roared with lfcughter,
and, snapping his side with his hand, a rather common trick
with him when excited, he said, " I would rather be the man
who thought of that on the spur of the moment, than have
written the paper that suggested it*" .Condensed from the Times.

A HYBRID YIXCA.

In the old vicarage garden of Totternhoe, Dear
Dunstable, are beds of Vinca minor, in the two
varieties of deep violet aud white. Amongst these
two forms is a single plant with parti-coloured
flowers; white and violet, herewith illustrated

Law Notes.

JOHN SHAW r. ];.. H. HOMAN. — LAND-
SCAPE GARDENERS' PLANS.
At Manchester County Court on Friday, before
his Honour Judge Tany, Mr. John Shaw, F.R.H.S.,
landscape gardener, Ashley Road, Altrincham,
sought to recover the sum of £3 38. from Mr. R. H.
Homan, a Manchester merchant, for plans prepared
by his orders. The defence was that the plans
were prepared only in competition with others, but
his honour held that defendant in his letter to the
plaintiff never stated that such was the case. It
should have been distinctly stated that he was
competing with others. He therefore gave judg-
ment fur the amount claimed, with costs.

THE STAMENS OF ORCHIDS.

MOST people, nowadays, know that the single
stamen of the majority of Orchids, or the pair of
stamens in Cypripedium, are the only representa-
tives of a group which did contain, or is supposed
to have contained, six members. Then, for reasons
of convenience, four or five of the stamens were
dropped, and the flower assumed an irregular form,
instead of the regular shape it had in the first
instance. Traces of the missing stamens are often
visible, whilst the minute microscopical anatomy of
the flowerreveals traces of their existence in almost
all cases. We have had the good fortune befoie now
to see all six stamens in < Montoglossum orispum :
but in the flower of which we now give an
illustration (tig. 152) there are but three. The
specimen sent to us was grown in the collection of
Sir F. Wigau (gr. , Mr. Voting). All the flowers
on the raceme were thus affected, one flower even
had four stamens.

Home Correspondence.

UTRICULARIA CAPENSIS.- Plants of this minute
little gem were recently found growing in a pot
with I Msa grandiflora, a number of which were
imported from South Africa by Mr. W. Goodliffe,
of Cambridge Nurseries, Worthing. Although it
appears to spread freely, it could only lie found in
one pot out of about half a dozen. Examined by
the naked eye it is not very attractive, but placed
under a powerful lens a most perfect aud beautiful
flower ij revealed, the base of the flower and hood
being white, shaded with yellow. The lip is of a
rich purple ; there is also a band of the same colour
round the margin of the hood (or upper petal', ami
the whole surface of the flower studded with
minute crystal globules. A plant of this interesting
little gem was staged at the recent Temple Show,
and although the smallest exhibit there it was not
the least interesting, a fact fully attested by all
who had the opportunity of examining it under a
magnifying glass. A. II.

THE SHERWOOD CUP.— Certainly it is in uo
sense prejudging the event to say tint 11 r. E.
Beckett has practically won the tine cup which
Mr. Sherwood placed at the disposal of the
council of the Koyal Horticultural Society for
competition, with collections of vegetables, at the
Drill Hall. That failure in securing competition
was predoomed because of the conditions of the
class was certain from the first. Still, absolute
failure was not expected in securing tine pro-
ductions, for Mr. Beckett's grand collection of
fifty-three dishes of vegetables never has been
equalled, much less excelled, by anyone at this
time of the year. So far something has been gained
that we have seea, thus finely illustrated the
capacity of the British gardener to grow splendid
vegetable produce, and thus make an exhibit that
of its kind was by far the finest in the Drill Hall on
the 13th inst. Still more the products showed the
fine quality we have in vegetables even in June.

When the next scene of the little play is enacted,
which will he on September 12, Mr. Beckett will
agaiu be the sole representative, as by reason of
failure to appear on the 13th inst., all other persons
are debarred from competing. Putting up collec-
tions of fifty dishes, and without a single dish of
inferior stuff, is a task that few will essay. Besides
inviting in the competition unlimited collections,
there was the drawback that only one prize was
offered, and as only one could win it, uo doubt
vegetable growers were willing to allow a walk
over. Not that with competition do I think
anyone could have beaten .Mr. Beckett in June ;
but in September, with collections of say twenty
dishes, quite enough for any prize, the competition
might have been very keen. But in August aud
September our leading vegetable growers have
stiong attractions elsewhere, very liberal aud many
money and cup prizes being offered all over tha
kingdom, ami in uo case probably for more than
twelve dishes, and in very mauy for nine and six
dishes only. In such cases competition is plentiful
and keen. A. D.

KILLING AMERICAN BLIGHT.— Mr. Moody Bell's
use of a painter's-Iamp for the purpose of destroy-
ing American-blight on Apple-trees seems to be
employing a rather costly instrument. Some years
ago, when Apple-trees were much infested with
clusters of the Lackey moth caterpillar, I employed
paraffin with rapid effect, by fixing pieces of

Fig, 152.— u s oi odontog i u crjsi i a.

ii ns instead of one only. Front view t

tin- ti-i v to Hi-' left.)

cotton-rag on the point of a long stick, dipping
them into paraffin, setting them alight, then rapidly
igniting or scorching out the clusters of caterpillars.
X"t a leaf seemed to be injured. Would not a
similar appliance, run rapidly7 over the stems of
iufested trees, be equally as destructive of the
woolly aphis ? But after all, does this pest give
much trouble to trees that are annually coated
over, as far up the stems and blanches as can be,
with a pasty liquid of soft-soap, lime, and soot, and
a little size? Such a combination laiel on thickly
kills the pests by literally enclosing them from air.
Trees treated in this way always se'em as free from
insect pests as they are of moss or other vegetable
parasites. I have observed that trees so treated,
when they shed their dressing of this nature during
the season, invariably present smooth, clean stems,
void of broken or abrased bark. It is in the inter-
stices of the bark that the woolly aphis finds a
congenial habitation, and the less of these inter-
stices or broken places found on trees the less
relatively are insect ptsts generally. Such troubles
are left to be dealt with after the trees have
foliaged, when it is always more difficult to do so,
although the pests are then most noticeable.
Thorough washing of the trees in the autumn with
almost boiling- water, followeel by coatings of the
solution named, would be most effective destroyers.
A. IK

HOT-WATER, MEALY-BUG. AND MILDEW.— During
my term of seven and a half years under the late
Mr. Tho3. Terry, gardener to Lady Giles Puller,
Youngsbury, Ware, Hertfordshire, there were two
very large plants of Stephanotis floribunda on wire

414

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Jcne 24, 1899.

trellises, which, with the pots, were six feet in height,
and two large plants of Dipladenia amabilis, and
one of Cyrtoceras reflexum, greatly infested with
mealy-bug. On reference to my diary, date Jan. 17,
1857, I find that the gardener took the Stephanotis
off the trellis, rolled up the trailing shoots in a coil,
and then plunged them in a copper of boiling water,
taking them out instantly. The plauts were entirely
killed as far as the water touched them, but to the
surprise of everyone present, the mealy-bug came
out untouched. The Cyrtoceras shared the same
fate ; the Dipladenias came out with the mealy-bug
unharmed. The trellises were afterwards washed
with Gishurst Compound, and hung on trees in the
shrubbery till required the following spring ; the
mealy-bug was then still alive. Petroleum and
other insecticides now in use were unknown ; it was
all picking and sponging, which after all are^ the
safest and surest methods. For mildew on Vines
the best remedy is to take h lb. of flowers-of-
sulphur, mix into thin paste as you would mustard,
then add 4 gallons of clean water, well stirring it
together, and standing it in the house where it is
to be used for twelve hours, that is, till quite clear;
in the morning ladle-out all the clear water into
other vessels without disturbing the sulphur lying
at the bottom, and syringe therewith the Grapes
and foliage, or whatever is affected. This is a safe
cure, and leaves no stain on berry or foliage.
I consider hot water a dangerous remedy. I
should think as bad as using a pan of burn-
ing sulphur. Thos. Godfrey, Hillingdon. [Mr.
Mallett, who recommended heated water for
destroying mildew and mealy-bug, did not say that
he used it at the boiling-point— -2120, Fahr., but
something less than that, say, about 180° ; neither
did he dip his plants into a ' ' copper of boiling
water," a proceeding which the most inexperienced
gardener would know to be dangerous to plant life.
He stated that the water was applied by means of
a syringe; and in its transit from one place to
another, and passage through the air when driven
out of the syriDge, it would be greatly robbed of
its heat. En.]

FANCY PANSIES.— As "R. D." has told so clearly
the story of the introduction of the Fancy Pansy
into Britain, no doubt renewed interest will be felt
in these beautiful hardy flowers, for of their size as
plants we have very few that produce such grand
blooms, so superbly marked, and coloured as Fancy
Pansies do. I am induced because of this to ask
for information, as to whence come into market
at this time of the year in such immense numbers,
Buch grand-flowered plants as arc seen everywhere
offered for sale. Do they come from across the
Channel, or are they grown at home 1 and if the
latter, are they raised from home-saved seed, or
from imported seed 1 Also under what conditions is
the seed sown and at what time, and how are the
plants grown to produce such robustness and such
giant and brilliaut flowers '! No strain anywhere
gives finer, few give so fine ; whilst I see plants of
this description freely purchased and planted, yet
I do not observe that they seem to have long lives.
Does this arise from the changed conditions of cul-
ture to which subjected? are they grown during the
winter in cold frames, and on very rich soil '! If
that be so, their robust character is explained, as
is also the fact that after being planted in garden-
soil for a few weeks, they seem to do so indiffer-
ently. Still, that the plants come from a grand
strain there can be no doubt, and it may not be far
wrong to assume that to induce them to thrive in
gardens, it is needful to furnish them with culture
somewhat similar to what they have enjoyed in the
market-growing establishments. A.

A QUESTION. — Your correspondent "J. O," at
p. 400, laments the absence from modern gardens
of certain flowers which were favourites of his,
fifty years ago. He is also surprised that he does
not see them offered in trade-lists. Having myself
been familar with those plants half a century ago,
I can sympathise with him, though we have much
compensation in the possession of recent additions
to our garden plants. T think, too, I can explain,
if not justify, the disappearance of our old
favourites. As botanists we can but remember
with interest the charming little plant Yellow
Violet, introduced by Mr. Veitch forty-five years
ago, but we have now the more showy and more
easily-cultivated yellow Violas for beds ami borders.
The " Double Walls" of those days were propa-
gated only by cuttiugs, but now very fine Double
Wallflowers are raised more easily and abundantly

from seed, though I confess to a preference
for the more compact and natural appearance
of the plants we raised from cuttings. I do
not remember the black-flowered Delphinium,
but we see now a great variety of dark purple,
indigo-blue, and brilliant light blue, all raised
easily from seed. But "J. C." says, where are
now the Hyacinths, Double Purple-Green Tips,
Double Red Green Tips, and Double White Green
Tips which, he says, he used to obtain of the late
Mr. John Sutton, which I can quite believe, as
this was my father, with whom I was then in part-
nership (fifty or sixty years ago), and I well
remember the pretty Hyacinths he reminds me of,
and which could still be procured in the trade if
ordered. The disappearance of these old favourites
is accounted for by the fact that the present day
demand is for the most showy and the most free-
growing of flowers for beds and borders, and the
nurseryman or florist finds it to his interest to cul-
tivate and advertise those things which best meet
the public demand. It is now more than ten
years since I retired from the business firm of
Sutton & Sons, but the interesting enquiry of your
correspondent, "J. C," tempts me to offer a few
notes to the Gardeners' Chronicle, with which I have
corresponded from its foundation, fifty-eight years
ago. Martin Hope Sutton.

PROSPECTS OF THE FRUIT CROPS IN SHROP-
SHIRE.— There is every prospect of an abundant
crop of most kinds of fruit this year in Shropshire,
with the exception of Plums and Damsons, and in
some parts, Gooseberries. In some districts the
crops of Gooseberries are very good, and in others
almost a total failure, owing to the severe frosts
experienced in spring. The Plum and Damson-
trees were heavily laden with blossoms in spring,
and gave promise of abundant crops of fruit ;
but the cold spring proved too much for them,
and we may say there is generally a total failure.
I have visited many parts of Shropshire, aud only
very locally could anything worth calling a crop
be found ; the fine gardens at Sundorne Castle, so
ably managed by Mr. Phillips, the head gardener,
being one of these exceptions. Here, Plums upon
the walls are an abundant crop. The Apricots and
Peaches— the latter especially being heavily laden
with fruit ; in fact, fruit of all descriptions will be
very plentiful. This county is noted for its
Damsons, and in good years the crop is a valuable
one especially to cottagers, and the disappointment
is great this year, as there was such an early
promise of abuudant crops. The trees also are
terribly infested with the Plum-aphis, which curls
up the leaves, causing crippled growth and other-
wise injuring the trees. Apples and Pears are
much above the average ; Strawberries also are a
very abundant crop, notwithstanding some of the
first blossoms were destroyed by the early frosts of
spring. The glorions rains we are now having will
do much to secure fine fruit and a continuous
supply. A. Gaul, Shrewsbury.

of Mr. Peter Drummond, who had been foreman at
the Langport Nurseries of Messrs. Kelway & Son
for a period of twenty-six years. As a testimony
to the character of the deceased gardener, wo
reproduce the following appreciative description of
him by the firm itself —

" Mr. Drummond's death has been a severely-felfc
loss to us ; we mourn a man of forceful intellect
and inventive mind, a most clever cultivator, a
charming personality, a devoted friend, and most
faithful servant."

Mr. Drummond's father, writes Mr. Croucher,
our valued correspondent at Ochtertyre, N.B. ,
was gardener at this Scottish domain from 1S4'2 to
1S57, and was Mr. Croucher's immediate prede-
cessor. The gardener there previous to Mr.
Drummond remained over fifty years. Accordingly
there have only been three gardeners at Ochtertyre
since the year 1790. Ochtertyre is the residence
of Sir P. K. Murray, Bart.

James Anderson. — We regret to have to
announce the death of Mr. James Anderson, who
expired at Glasgow on June 10, at the age of sixty-
seven years, after an illness extending over some
eighteen months. Mr. Andersou was well known
as having been gardener for many years to T.
Dawson, Esq., Meadowbank, Uddingstoue, N.B.,
where there was one of the finest collections of
Orchids of the time, and in which many that are
still held in high esteem made their first appear-
ance, and notably Odontoglossum x Andersonianum
and La-lia anceps Dawsoni. Mr. Anderson was a
very successful cultivator, and also exhibited some
very remarkable specimens, securing the very rare
honour of the Lindley Medal, and many other
awards. After Mr. Dawson's death, Mr. Anderson
established himself near Glasgow as a- landscape
gardener and horticultural expert, but soon re-
moved to the neighbourhood of Manchester, and
many gentlemen availed themselves of his services
as an adviser in gardening matters. He was also
employed on the Epping Forest Commission, and
was for many years a valued correspondent of this
journal. The deceased was for the period of its
short existence editor of the Northern Gardener
at its commencement in Edinburgh, and later at
Manchester. He also brought out a bulky work
eu titled The Practical Gardener.

©bttuan>.

The LATE J. CRAGG. — As gardener to the
late A. Heine, Esq., the deceased was well
known as a thorough good all-round man, a
capital hand with bouquets, vases, and table-
decoratious, very successful with Orchids — at
one show, if my memory serves me aright,
he carried off every 1st prize in the open and
amateur classes at Old Trafford, when competition
was keener than is the case at the present time.
He was a good Chrysanthemum grower and ex-
hibitor, and had excellent taste in forming groups
of plauts for effect. I ever found him a pleasaut
companion, and a most unselfish and kiud-hearted
neighbour. My mind runs over those connected
with some of the big shows at Old Trafford long
ago, and of that number Messrs. T. Baines, W. Cole,
W. Milford, G. Toll, T. Hubberstey, J. Jones,
A. Beesley, G. Beddoes, B. Findlay have all passed
away, the greater number, comparatively speaking,
in middle age, some scarcely that ; and to the
number we may now add J. Cragg, who, after
about fifteen years' service at Birchfield, has
succumbed at the age of forty-six years. W. Swan.
Peter Drummond.— Only a fortnight after
attending the funeral of the late Mr. Kelway,
occurred the sudden death at the age of sixty-six,

Nursery Notes.

• — —
KNAP HILL NURSERY IN JUNE.
Tii anyone interested in Rhododendrons and
Azaleas, one can imagine no better day of education
and pleasure combined than a visit to the Knap
Hill Nursery during the early days of June. There
is not, I suppose, within the three kingdoms a
place where so large an area is covered with
Rhododendrons, not merely stuff' for selling by the
hundred, but magnificent specimens, some of which
in their height and spread of branches, as well as
in the thickness of their stems, may rank as small
trees. As the nursery is approached from Woking
Station, a foretaste of the feast of colour is obtained
from the high road, whence glimpses can be caught,
low in the distance, of great stretches of Rhododen-
drons in bloom — a scene not only very beautiful,
but peculiarly striking, set, as it is, amidst the
meadows and hedgerows of pastoral Surrey.
When the nursery is reached there is seen
stretching away through it a straight avenue, close
upon a mile in length, bordered for the most
part by towering masses of Rhododendrons, among
which the variety album elegans is prominent; in
huge bushes 15 feet or so high. From this avenue
we make incursions on either side, traversing
quarter after quarter of the 'nursery, still of the
finest varieties of Rhododendrons in full bloom,
till we are almost bewildered by the glowing masses
of colour that close in on every side. Purple
of various shades is still the prevailing colour
among garden Rhododendrons, but here there is
every range of oolour, from pure white to vivid

June 24, 1899.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

415

crimson. Although some of the purples are of a
distinctly blue shade, pure blue is, of course absent,
just as pure yellow is.

As is well known, a great proportion of the
best varieties of garden Rhododendrons origi-
nated at Knap Hill, the present head of the
establishment, as well as Lis father and great
uncle before him, being all enthusiastic breeders
of new varieties. One thing to which the Waterer
Rhododendrons owe their great value, is the strong
strain of R. catawbiense blood that runs in them ;
this shows its influence especially in a greater
hardiness and finer foliage than can be claimed for
those in which R. ponticum preponderates. One
of the most interesting plants in the nursery is the
original specimen of R. catawbiense (now a huge
bush), to which so many varieties owe their origin
in greater or less degree. How many hundreds of
thousands of plants own kinship to this one plant '.
But however fine the varieties that have already
come from this nursery, there are others still finer
which have not yet been sent out, or even named.
As one threads his way amidst the labyrinth of
Rhododendrons, Mr. Waterer keeps on pointing
out new sorts still uuchristened, which, in size of
flower and truss, in vigour of foliage and habit, in
richness of colour and marking, are still better
than tho best of those that have gone out into the
world.

The same progress is being made among the
deciduous so-called "Ghent" Azaleas. Just as
Rhododendrons, where they thrive, are first among
flowering evergreens, so are Azaleas among de-
ciduous hardy shrubs. In the quarters where the
selected seedlings are congregated, there are some
marvellous flowers to be seen. A great advance
has been made in the size and substance of the
blossoms, some of which are now over 3 inches
across. One, an almost pure white, was especially
noteworthy, with flowers large enough to recall a
Lily ; but in the scarlet, yellow, orange, and
crimson varieties also, the difference between their
flowers and those of the original species from which
they have been derived is remarkable. A new and
interesting race is being obtained by crossing the
late-flowering American species — A. occideutalis —
with the garden varieties ; this new race not only
extends the flowering season of the Azaleas, but tho
lateness of the flowers allows of the better develop-
ment of the young leaves, and so every truss
has its beauty enhanced, nestling as it does among
the tender green foliage.

Although the Rhododendrous and A/.aleas, at
this season especially, claim our attention most,
they occupy only a part of the nursery, covering as
it does some 500 or 000 acres, most of which are
occupied by trees and shrubs, or being prepared for
them. There is, in consequence, a sphudid stock
of hardy woody plants, which strike one chiefly on
account of their superb health, and the uniformly
high rank the species and varieties hold among
trees and shrubs. There never was a keener or,
indeed, a more exacting judge of a plant than the
late Mr. Anthony Waterer. Nothing but what
was best and hardiest could pass muster with him,
and his favourable verdict was as good as any first-
class certificate in the world. He never grew a
thing merely to sell. It had to fulfil his require-
ments before it found a permanent place in his
nursery.

The consequence of this i?, that if a tree or shrub
is seen in quantity at Knap Hill, that may be
taken as a guarantee of its value. I have never
seen the Blue Spruce (Ticca pungens glauca or
argeutea) in such quantities, or more finely coloured,
than here ; aud what adds to their value, as those
who have had experience with grafted Conifers
will know, is that they are all on their own roots —
that is, selected seedlings. Another finely-coloured
tree is the golden-leaved Elm, of which a large
breadth is at its best.

The Yews are represented by innumerable speci-
men plants of the golden-leaved sorts, among which
the variety elegantissima, with its graceful habit
and distinctly-marked foliage, is prominent. A

new variety, called semper-aurea, which is said to
remain golden all the year round, was pointed out.
A commendable mode of culture is practised with
the Irish Yews ; they are kept to one main stem,
aud thus the tying up that is so frequently neoes-
sary with Irish Yews, especially after stormy
weather, is avoided.

One of the most interesting parts of the nursery

is that which surrounds the old dwelling-house,

aud which, I believe, was the nucleus of the

nursery. Here are planted some specimens of

various Conifers, no doubt amoug the first of their

kind ever introduced. A glorious specimen of

Douglas Fir of the best Colorado form is (at a

guess) 70 feet high, and perfectly furnished from

its lead down to the branches that sweep the

smooth lawn on which it stauds. There are also

noble specimens of the Maidenhair-tree (Ginkgo

biloba), Red-wood (Sequoia sempervirens), Arau-

caria imbricata, &c. Not far away is an enormous

tree of the Weeping Beech, spreading out its great

tent-like mass of foliage. The Knap Hill nursery

has long been famous for its Wistarias ; the white

variety, the double one, and the type of W. cbi-

nensis are here to be seen clambering over Laburnum

and Pine. With the Laburnum especially the

effect is charming, for. flowering together, the

purple and yellow racemes intermingled make a

striking combination. The fine, large-leaved Vine

that colours so magnificently in autumn, and which

is V. Coignetia' or near it, is now in flower, but the

plant is male. A large spreading tree of the golden

variegated Chestnut (Castanea sativa aureo-

marginata) is a striking feature, not only because

of its size, but also for the richness aud uniformity

of its colour. A beautiful tree is the cut-leaved

Beech (var. heterophylla or aspleuifolia), here

represented by a large and perfectly-proportioned

specimen. Among scarlet Horse - Chestnuts,

although nearly past, the variety Briotii might still

be recognised as the best. The past season has

been a good one for Lilacs, and although nearly

over, Souvenir de Louis Spath stood out as the best

dark-coloured one, as did Marie Legraye amoug the

whites, and Madame Lemoiue among the doubles.

Finally, there may bo mentioned two members of

the Erica family which thrive here admirably. The

ouu is the "Sorrel Tree " (Oxydendron arboreum)

20 to 25 feet high ; the other being the dwarf and

rare Epigaea repens, a most difficult plant at times

to suit, but luxuriating here in moist soil on the

shady tide of a group of Rhododendrons.

The nursery is thrown open to the public during
the Rhododendron season, and is visited by thou-
sands ; in fact, the flowering of the Rhododendron
aud Azalea appears to be somewhat analogous
in the .Woking district to tho flowering of the
Cherry near Tokio near Japan, where every man,
woman, and child, makes it the excuse for a
holiday. B. Q.

SOCI ETI ES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

June 13.— Preseni : Dr. M. T. Masters (in tlie chair) ;
Mr. Veitch, Rev. W. Wilks, Rev. C. Wolley Dod, Prof. A. H.
Church, and Rev. rrof. G. Henslow, lion. See.

Panax Mastersianus. — Dr. Masters exliibitol a flowering
spray of this plant, which appeared to be all male, which
probably came from New Guinea. It has never been
thoroughly described hitherto, as no flowers had been seen.
Dr. Masters undertook to examine them and report upon
them.

Cattleya Mosaics. — He also exhibited a blossom of thio Orchid
strangely malformed, which he also undertook to examine.

Lilac with Central (Terminal) Bud Aborted. — He brought
sprays to show the presence of this bud lying between two
opposite fully-formed buds. It is said to be always aborted
by frost ; but as it is invariably the else, it would be more
likely to be atrophied, in consequence of all the nourishment
being conveyed to the two opposite buds.

Hemerncallis leaf diseased.— Vr. Smith reports as follows
upon leaves sent to the last meeting: — " The reddish spots
on leaf sent are caused by a fungus. Each spot is J to A-inch
diameter, and consists of a patch of cavities (pyenidia) sunk

in the leaf tissue. From these tiny conidia are given off to
disperse the fungus. In addition to the internal pyenidia,
another form of pyenidium is formed on the surface, when a
portion of the leaf with spots is kept in a moist chamber
these latter also give off tiny conidia. The foims of pyenidia
anil their structure refer the fungus to the genus Asteroma,
Farlow, in his Host Index for U.S. America, gives a form
Asteroma lineola, the pyenidial stage of Dothidea lineola.
The aseospore or Dothidea stage is not present, as far as I can
see, on leaf sent."

i Peach,.— The following is also Dr. W. G. Smith's
report :—" The fruit sent showed a large patch of fungus
mycelium with conidia. Two forms of conidia occurred, by
which the rot might be referred either to black spot disease
(Oil dosporium earpophiluiu), or the fruit rot (Monila fructi-
gena). In transit the fungus spot appears to have enlarged
enormously, and it looked quite unlike what one generally
sees in either of the above Peach diseases. In any case it Is a
distinct fruit-rot, and controllable by spraying methods."

Peridermium Plowi Ighti (Kleb) — The following commnnica.
tion was received from Dr. Plowright, with illustrative speci-
mens:—"The specimens of Peridermium sent hcrewiih were
produced by artificial culture, anil afford an illustration of
how easy a matter it is to unravel a mystery when one once
has the clue to it. It is just twenty-five years ago since
Wolf! showed that Coleosporium senecionis was connected
with Peridermium pini on Pinus sylvestris. This Perider-
mium is frequent upon the Fir-trees near King's Lynn, so that
I had ample opportunity of confirming Wolff's observations.
As a matter of fact, between the years 1881 and 1888, on ten
separate and distinct occasions, I did apply the spores of
Peridermium pini to Senecio vulgaris. Once, and onee only,
di'l I succeed in producing the uredo on the last-named plant.
My non-success I attributed to some error in manipulation,
and as I was engaged with other species, I did not follow
the research up. Dr. Klebahn, of Hamburgh, however;
set about the problem, and soon cleared the matter
up. He showed that the species of Coleosporium had their
;ccidiospores on Pinus sylvestris, and not C. senecionis alone.
The species on Tussilago Farfara, which is exceedingly
common all over England, was one of the forms to which Dr.
Klcbahn directed his attention, and he gave the above name
to its acidiospores. The specimens sent herewith were, pro-
duced by artificial culture. On October Hi, 1S3S, a leaf of
Coltsfoot, with the teleutospores of Coleosporium tussilaginis
abundantly upon it. was fastened upon young Pinus sylves-
tris ; on February 'JO suspicious spots began to show, but it
was [not] until April 22 that an abundant development of the
Peridermium was observed. On that date the Coltsfoot leaf
was still attached to the Fir, and the most abundant develop-
ment of Peridermium was seen to be immediately beneath it.
As this experiment was performed some 3 miles from my
house, the plants were not visited so often as they otherwise
would have been. On April 25 two young plants of Tussilago
Farfara were infected with the above acidiospores, and on
May 13 each was found to be abundantly affected with the
uredo of Coleosporium Tussilaginis ; they were gathered, and
are also sent herewith. I have to thank Mr. Walter Scott, of
the Golden Ball Nurseries for the material employed in these
cultures, and Mr. Hodgers for his assistance in looking after
the plants."

/■.'/jirrimi ;it A"". l'.M.'t. — Coleosporium Tussilaginis placed on
a young plant of Pinus sylvestris (infecting) : Material wired
onto the tree October 16, 1898 J Bpermogonia observed
February 20. Peridermium Plowrighti abundantly produced
and Sully developed April 22, 1898.

Experiments 1264, 1265.— Two young plants of Tussilago
Farfara, infected on April 25, 1899, with ascid spores of Peri-
dermium Plowrighti Ironi Experiment 1243, perfect uredo
gathered May 15.

EXAMINATION IN HORTICULTURE, 1S99.

Tiik Annual Examination in the Principles and Practice of
Horticulture was held on April 11 : 165 papers were sent in.

Three hundred marks were allotted as a maximum, and all
candidates who obtained 2)0 marks and upwards were placed
in tin ■ lirst class. The total number was 8U, or 48-4 per cent.

The highest number of marks (285) was awarded to Mr.
Harrington II. Eaton, from the County Technical School,
Stafford.

Those who secured 150 and less than 200 marks were placed
in the second class. The number was 50, or 30-3 per cent.

Those who obtained 100 and upwards were ranked in the
third class. The number was 30, or IS! per cent.

Five candidates, obtaining less than 100 marks, were not
placed.

Comparing the results with those of the last two years, the
entry has fallen from 190 (in 1898) to 165, the percentages of
the number in each class being as follows :—

1S97(1S4). 1898(190). 1B99 (165),

First class 483 457 48-4

Second class
Third class
Not classed

The answers were, on the whole, again very satisfactorily
given, no very serious mistakes occurring anywhere. The
purel,' botanical questions dealing with the structure and
classification of flowers were generally avoided; but the
physiological questions were mostly chosen, and were well
answered.

It is very gratifying to report that there is again a general
improvement in the department of Practical Horticulture.
The candidates have more fully described the minor details;
this is important. ^Candidates should also realise that it la

29 S

32-6

30-3

15-2

190

18-1

I.-5

2a)

30

416

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Juioc 24, 189a

only by grasping the full meaning of the questions that they
may expect to obtain the highest honours. Hume candidates
wandered from the question and answered what was not in il ,
and in this way wasted time which might have been of much
value near the close of the examination. These were excep-
tions, but it is well to allude to them. Geo. lhmlou- and Jos.
Douglas, Exomim rs.

Enquiry.

SCOTTISH HORTICULTURAL
ASSOCIATION.

The members of the above Society made a visit to The
Glen, Innerleithen, on May 27, by kind permission of Sir Chas.
Tennant, a great patron of gardening. The Association,
mustered by its able Secretary, Mr. R. Laird, and its genial
Vice-president, Mr. Todd, was conveyed in two corridor
carriages to Peebles. From thence four brakes drove the
Association through Tweeddale, via Innerleithen to The Glen.
It was represented by some sixty or seventy members and
friends.

The Queou's weather on Saturday 27, being our first May-
day in the North this year, the perfect arrangements and
management, and the charms of Nature and art, of The Glen
itself, made this one of the pleasantest and instructive outings
yet held by this flourishing centre of light and leading in
horticulture.

Mr. Todd's thoughtful distribution of fruit on the journey
also added greatly to the comfort of the members.

Mr. Mclntyre, the able head gardener, who has moulded
and managed the beautiful gardens for a score or more of
years, received the party at the front door, and proved a
most instructive and interesting guide

The art treasures and the chief rooms in the mansion were
also open to the party, under the direction of the head house-
keeper and Mr. Mclntyre.

iiefore leaving, the party were mustered in front of the fine
mansion by Mr. Laird, wdiile Mr. Todd, in his usual happy
manner, proposed the warmest thanks of the Association to
Sir Charles Tennant, Mr. Mclntyre, and the housekeeper,
amid ringing cheers.

Mr. Mclntyre briefly returned thanks, expressing his
pleasure in seeing so many of his friends around him, and
saying how pleased Sir Charles would have been to welcome
the Association had lie not been in London. V. T. F.

KIDDERMINSTER AND DISTRICT
HORTICULTURAL.

June 14.— The usual monthly meeting of this newly-formed
Society, which now numbers over 150 members, was held on
the above date, when a paper on the " Cultivation of border
and Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations" was given by
Mr. W. H. Wilson of Moor Hall, Stourport, under the
chairmanship of Rowland Hill, Esq., of The Firs, a Vice-
President of the Society.

Mr. Wilson's lecture was very instructive, and contained
valuable hints on the growth and general treatment of this
lovely flower. During the evening the members arranged to
visit the gardens of Impney, Westwuod, and the Experimental
Gardens at Droitwich, on Saturday, the 24th inst. T. J. U.

ROYAL BOTANIC.

Junh 21.— What is known as the Annual Floral Fete was
celebrated in the Royal Botanic Society's Gardens, at Regent's
Park, on Wednesday last, and from the horticultural point of
view the event was not even a moderate success.

There was .plenty of diversion offered to visitors in the
shape of a Maypole dance, a pastoral play on the greensward,
and high class military music. The gardens were also gaily
illuminated in the evening.

The only exhibits of a horticultural character were made by
Messrs. Babr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London;
A. W. Young & Co., Stevenage ; Mr. J. Pbewett, Rayleigh
(table decorations) J and Mr. W. J. Piper, Uckfield, who had
some blooms of his new Rose Sunrise.

Messrs. Barr & Sons' exhibit contained a fine lot of
varieties of Iris Hispanica, and other species, also Moutan
and other Pieouics ; and amongst hardy perennial (lowers we
noticed Campanula persicirlora alba grandiceps, Heuchcra
sanguinea, Gladiolus Byzantinus, Shirley Poppies, <fec.

The exhibition of Rhododendrons, made by Messrs.
Jno. Waterep. & Co., see p. 411, were a greater attraction
than anything connected specially with the floral fete,

Double Petunia.— Mr. Dyer, of Forest Gate,
Bends us two flowers of Petunia in which the calyx
and corolla are normal, and with the usual five
stamens. la addition the centre of the flower is
tilled up by a prolongation of the axis bearing
numerous stameus, and a pistil with style and
stigma. It seems as if the flower had started as a
double flower, but altered its mind (if we may so
say), and produced stamens instead of petals.

A correspondent, "A. W. C," would be
thankful if any fellow readers of the Gardeners'
Chronicle would kindly advise him in reference to
the following matter. During the early morning and
in the evening the garden is infested by swarms of
very small midges, which are a positive nuisance
to everybody, puncturing the skin and causing
intense itching, and on some persons, including
himself, raising small pustules. His employer says
that instead of it being a pleasure to be out in
the gardens at such times, it is a perfect misery.
He says that the ground lies rather low, and there
are some large trees in and around it, besides a
rather wide brook running through it. Various
methods have been tried, but without success.

Answers to Correspondents.

— «

Beetle Injurious to the stems of Asparagus:
G. Singham. The beetles sent are Crioceris
asparagi— from their small size are very difficult
to discover and destroy. But they may be
shaken from the stems on to white cloths, caught
and destroyed. In the autumn the decaying
stems should be burnt, as the female lays her
eggs upon the branches ; and by mixing a little
dry litter with the refuse it might be burnt on
the beds, thus doing away with the risk of
dropping eggs on to the soil in other parts of the
garden, and destroying eggs that might otherwise
be left on the beds. The insect was figured in
our issue for January 8, 1S70, p. 44.

Catanga : 8. W. The name is perhaps meant to be
synonymous with Cananga, of which there are
three species noted in the Index Kewensis, all
tropical. We should think the gardeners were
amusing themselves at your expense, these plants
not being suitable for beddiug-out purposes.

Celery-mining Fly-grub : F. 8. Carefully ex-
amine the plants almost daily, and kill all grubs
seen to be mining by nipping them with the
thumb-nail. Apply a quassia-wash, made witli
soaking i lb. of quassia-chips for a few days in
soapsuds. It may kill the fly, and it will certainly
render the leaves distasteful to it.

Clematis Diseased : 6'. H. The foliage and twigs
show the presence of a fungus, which, by its
mode of attack, would account for the dying-
back complained of. The fungus (probably
Dicoccus uuiseptatum, of the late M. J. Berkeley),
is present on the foliage, and in patches sunk
into the stems. It will be best treated after
growth is over for the season. Cut back as far
as_ you safely can, and burn all the primings.
Wash the stems left with some strong adhesive
mixture ; the following recipe is used for washing
stems in winter where fungi are being treated :
Place 4 lb. of sulphur aud 4 lb. of lime in a pan,
with about 4 gallons of water, and boil slowly,
stirring meauwhile, till a yellow paste is left ;
dissolve h lb. of sulphate of copper in some hot
water in a wooden vessel, and add to it 1 lb. of
slaked lime ; mix the whole together and obtain
a thick paste. When used for washing stems, a
pound of the paste is mixed with every 2 gallons
of hot water, and is applied lukewarm. If it be
syringed on, rather more water is necessary.
This may be applied two or three times during
the resting season of the plant ; but before the
buds unfold, a spraying with a clear fungicide
like potassium sulphide (i oz. iu each gallon of
water), would help to wash off excess of adhering
sulphur and lime. When applying the sulphur-
lime mixture, it would be well to prevent much
of it soaking into the soil amongst the roots.
W. G. S., Leeds.

Edible and Poisonous Fungi op Japan: Boston,
U.S.A. We do not know where the Japanese
book on this subject is published ; we have given
the title of the book, its nature, aud the author's
name. An importer of Japanese books or manu-
factures would probably be able to get it for you.

Fungus : G. Barham. The Stiukhorn— Phallus im-
pudicus, common in dry places in peaty, sandy soil.

Gooseberries Diseased : A. D. & S. A case of
Gooseberry mildew (Microspha?ra grossularia).
With tin; berries iu the condition sent, it is now
too late to treat the disease on this year's crop,
because Bordeaux Mixture or sulphur or any
fungicide will probably stain the fruit, or, at
least render it hardly fit for the market. All
diseased leaves, berries, and twigs, should be

removed aud burnt. Where the bushes are very
bad, we should not try to save the fruit, but start
spraying at once with Bordeaux Mixture, or
thoroughly dusting the bushes with flowers-of-
sulphur; this will prevent the fungus spreading,
and prepare the way for next season. A spray-
ing with weak potassium sulphide solution ( i oz.
in each gallon of water) would check the disease,
and allow the fruit to be used, although it is
never advisable to use fungicides on fruit nearly
ready for market. The treatment for this
mildew, as well as for the Gooseberry-rust is to
spray at intervals with Bordeaux Mixture,
Strawsonite, or potassium sulphide. The first
spraying is done in spring before the buds open ;
it should not be omitted, and every part of the
bush be wetted. After blossoming, spray again
with any of the same solutions. Two or three
weeks later, spray with potassium sulphide only.
This course has been tried and found quite
effective ; if it were systematically followed by
all growers, we should hear little of either of
above diseases. W. G. S., Leeds.

" Kew Bulletin " : Forest Hill. We believe this
publication was first issued in its present form in
18S7.

Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in
this issue are requested to be so good as to consult
the following number. — G. W. C. Riehardia
Rehmanni. — E. T. The flowers sent are those
of a form of Phyllocactus crenatus, probably, of
which there are many. — A, M. Hyacinthus
comosus. — Young Gardener. 1, Campanula
muralis ; 2, Helianthemum vulgare var. ; 3,
Veronica sp. ; 4, Helianthemum vulgare ; 5,
Linum grandiflorum : li, Allium Moly. — /. M.

1, Buddleia globosa ; 2, Heuchera sanguinea. —
F. W. W. Abies concolor.— .4. B. 8. Silene
nutans, a Salvia, a Cynoglossum, and a Primu-
laceous plant in fruit. This is the best we can
do for you, as the specimens were quite withered.
— Slaymaker & Co. Araujia (Schubertia) gr-.
veolens, see figure in Gardeners ChronU
September S, 18S8, p. 271. — IK. H. H. Epidc
drum alatum. — ./. A'. 1, Prunus Padus ■ fUJ
Taxodium distichum var. pendnla ; 3, Val i"«
near officinalis. — A. J. 1, Saxifraga lougiiona ;

2, Gaulthcria Shallon ; 3, Veronica longifolia
Bubsessilis. — W. li. Eriophorum polystachyum,
the so-called Cotton-grass. — W. 8. The Rose is
Mrs. W. J. Grant.— L. R. W. 1, Scilla peru-
viana ; 2, Thalietrum alpinum ; 3, Erigeron
speciosus ; 4, Campanula Trachelium ; 5, Poten-
tilla, no flowers : li. Lychnis chaleedonica ; 7, an
Eryngium ; 8, Achillea millefolium ; 9, not recog-
nised ; 10, Polygonum Brunonis. Why uot send
better specimens, and not more than six at a
time? — A. 8. Pentstemon ovatus. — W. M. The
variegated form of the Gout-weed, ^Egopodium
podagraria.

Place of Business : Scot. You must excuse us
for not giving an opinion on so serious a matter
as a choice of locality to begin business, when
you have no experience. Neither can we tell
you the relative amount of profit obtainable from
from pot - plants or fruits. It depends on so
many circumstances. Get an estimate from some
responsible cultivator. The cost of span-roofed
houses depends on their width, height, the nature
of the side-walls, style of ventilation, weight of
glass, dimensions of sash, bars, and other items,
but speaking roughly, they could be built for 15s.
per foot run, all included except the heating
apparatus. But you should obtain estimates
from a few firms.

Pruning : E. W. B. The best book on the sub-
ject, both as regards principles and practice, is
Bailey's The Pruning Book, published by Mac-
millan & Co.

Rust on Begonia leaves : A. P. Apply sulphide
of potassium, h an oz. in one gallon of rain-water ;
or plunge them in weak tobacco- water for a few
minutes. Very badly-affected leaves should be
cut off the plant and burnt.

Tomato Fungus : C. J. The leaves are attacked
with a rust, Cladosporittm Lycopersi. Burn
the affected leaves, and spray the plant with
sulphide of potassium, J oz. to 1 gallon of water.

Communications Received.— M. B— L. A.— H. J. H — T. C.
B 1 L.— C. C. H.— J. O'B.— A. G.— D. T. P.— D. Macintosh.
— E.Webb & Sons.— C. W.— G.iPanl.— T. Coomber.— W. S.—
T. .1. It. -J. O'B— B. IL— W. J. B.— A. II.- S. A.-R. P. B.
- (It, Van Waveren & Krui.ifl'.— R. W. A., Johannesburg.—
W. (!. s. IL T. F.-C. Hea.-W. H. W.-J. E. R.— W.'A.—
J. Cuter & Co.— G. B. & Sons.— B. G.

Specimens and Photographs Received with Thanks—
M. Buysmann (quite withered). — J. O'B. — G. H.

[For Markets and Weather, see p. viii.)

in