LIBRARY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE Jime24, 1906.) THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE ^ m^fklg aUustratji) lournal OF Horticulture and Allied Subjects. {ESTABLISHED IN 1841.) VOL. XXXVII.-THIRD SERIES. JANUARY TO JUNE, 1905. LONDON : 41, WELLINGTON STREET, COVENT GAEDEN, W.C. 1905. (2y Tar I'=)05' EEADl;UKi', AGNEW AND CO., LTD., PRINTERS, LOXUOX AND TOXnraDGE. The Gardeners' Chronicle, tJuuC 24, 190 . IISTDEX OF GOISTTENTS. JANUARY TO JUNE, 1905. (Fob Special Headings see undeb Books; Cektificates ; Law Notes; Nuesekt Notes; Oeituakt ; Plant Poeteaits ; Plants New ; Scientific Committee ; Societies ; and Illustbations.) Abelia uniflora, 323 Aberdeen Agricultural College, lec- tures at, lOi Acacia dealbata, planting, 21S Academy, pictures at the Eoyal, 273 Adonis amurensis, 188 ; A. davurica in Japan, 10 Afforestation in Wales, 90 Africa, OJerman South-west, 248 Agapetes macrantha, 375 Agaricus personatus, fasciation in,3-i2 Agave americana causing skin irri- tation, 150 ; flowering at Park- field, Worcester, 37 Agriculture, Board of, activity of the, 248 Almond flowering, the, 153 Alpine garden, the, 35, 97, 148, 189, 197, 261 Alpine plants in pots, 245 Alternaria solani (Tomato disease) , 92 American Carnation Society, the, 121 American gardening paper, a new, 9; Society for Horticultural . Science, 63; State horticulture. 154 Anemone Hepatica " Torch," 261 ; A. nemorosa, a double-flowered form of, 307 ; A., the genus, 10 Augiopteris evecta var. Teysmanu- iana in Brussels Botanic Gardens, 329 AngrjECum distichum flowering at Burford, 45 Ansellia africana flowering in Eew Gardens, 261 Anthonomus quadrigibbus (Apple curculio), 372 Ants as gardeners, 379 Aphis, the giant Willow, 243 Apiary, the, 91, 103, 119, 135, 187, 218, 251, 285, 327, 359, 377 Apple-stocks raised from cuttings, 202, 284 Apples Annie Elizabeth, 6 ; Blen- heim Pippin, 115 ; Cornish Gilli- flower, 6 ; Fenn's Wonder, 57 : Lady Henniker, 115, 138 ; Lane's Prince Albert, 44, 76, 90; Lord Burghley, 148, 202, 235; Lord Stradbroke, 57 ; The Spice, 156 ; The Hermanns, 182 ; Tower of Glamis, 69 ; Wjken Pippin, 45 Apples, census of varieties of, 26, 28, 44, 58 ; colour in, 12 ; from the Cape, 232, 284 ; late culinary, 116 ; orchard culture of, 90; seedless, 121, 281, 313 ; some lesser-known varieties of, 148 ; special manures and soils for, 68 ; the flavour of some varieties of, 124 ; the storage of, 156 ; thinning, 308 Arabis alpina with double flowers and variegated foliage, 198; A. Ferdinandi-Coburgi, 35 Araucaria at Dropmore, last of the famous, 59 Arboriculture in Scotland, 396 Arddarrooh, Odontoglossums at, 19 Ardwell,Wigton8hire,Conifersat,219 Arenaria montana, 375 Armstrong College, the, 248 Arnold Arboretum, the, 58 Arnott, Mr. S., presentation to, 219 Arundinaria nobilis, 139 Ashton, a curious custom at, 2S2 Asparagus cultivation in Germany, 330 ; at Evesham, 345 ; A. Spren- geri, 10, 28 Asters, China, 277 Auricula, the, 38, 266 Auriculas, some new green-edged " sliow," 250 ; the culture of, 276 Austria and Germany, gardening in, 305 Awards of the Eoyal Horticultural Society, 328, 345, 384 Azalea indica " Hexe," 185 Azaleas, grafting, 122 ; cultivation of, in Dresden, 379 Baissea gracillima as a source of rubber, 153 Bamboo, uses of, in the garden, 165 Bamboo garden-seat, a, 293 Banana industry, the Barbados, 372 Bananas, a lecture on, 205 Bananas injured in transit by child- ren, 169 Bank House, Accrington, Orchids at, 355 Barbados, the Banana industry in the, 372 Barnham, fruit-growing industry at, 390 Bauhin's, Gaspard, herbarium, Bay-trees, trained, 251 Bedding, summer, 330 Beech-coccus, remedy for the, 185, 192 Begonia Gloire de Lorraine in South Africa. 372 ' Belvedere, St. Lawrence, Isle of Wight, the gardens at, 181 Belvoir Castle, spring flowers at, 233 Benary, Ernest (Vegetables Photo- graphed fro^n Nature), 169 Benevolent Institution, Gardeners' Eoyal, 25, 28, 42, (annual meeting) 56,63,73,78,89,(annualdinner)395 Bequest, a monetary, to the Eoyal Horticultural Society, 2oO Berlin Botanical Garden, 360 Bermuda-grown Onions, 316 Biologists, economic, the association of, 298 Biology of Melampyrum, the, 379 " Black-stripe " disease in Tomatos, 201 Blechnum spicant, a variegated form of, 307 Board of Agriculture's leaflets, 28 Books, Notices of : — A Gar- dener's Year (if. Rider Haggard) 52 ; Alpenflora {Dr. Gustav JIeg-< and Dr. Gustav Dunzinger), 379 American Nut Journal, 377 ; An- nuals (T. JF. Sanders), 361 Another Hardy Garden Book (Helena Rutherfurd), 380 ; Author and Printer (F. Howard Collins), 391 ; Bee - hives and Bee- keepers' Appliances (Paid If. Hasluck), 118; Botanical Maga- zine, 9, 89, 170, 232, 293, 361 ; British Trees (Rex Vicat Cole), 379 ; Business Side of Agriculture (Arthur G. Rogers), 129 ; Cassell's Popular Gardening, 154, 232; Coxmtry Day by Day, (E. Kay Robinson), 83; Country Gentlemen's Estate-Book (PTiHiotJi Broomhall), 340 ; Critical Eevision of the Genus Eucalyptus (J. H. Maiden), 24, 372 ; Cultivation and Preparation of Para Rubber ( W. H. Johnson), 249 ; Culture of Sweet Peas (Richard Dean), 283 ; Cunard Souvenir, 104; Dicks' London Street Guide, 218 ; Dictionnaire Icono- graphique des Orchidees. 42, 380 ; Die Orchideen und ihrer Cultur im Zimmer (Von A. Braeclclein) , 277; Familiar Wild Flowers (F. E. J[alme), 283 ; Farm and Home y ear-Book tor 1905, 263; Flora and Sylva, 104, 186, 297; Flora of the Punjab (Drummond), 41 ; Forest Flora of New South Wales (J. H. Maiden), 41, 150, 372 ; Forester's Pocket Diary and Note- Book (A. D. ll'ebster), 4; Fruti- cetum Vilmorianum (M. Maurice cU Vilmorin), 89 ; Garden Colour (Margaret Waterfield), 233, 374; Gai'dening Tear-Book and Garden Oracle, 121 ; Gooseberry-Growers' Register for 1904, 109; Guide- Books received, 361; Harms- worth Eucyclopojdia, 201 ; Horti- cultural Directory, the, 185 ; Icones Plantarura, 89 : Illustriertes Handbuch derLaubholzkunde (Ca- millo Karl Scheider), 169; Index Filicum (Carl Christensen), 330 ; Insect Life (Fred. V. Theobald), 279 ; Journal of Agricultural Sci- ence, the, 120 ; Journal of the Koyal Horticultural Societ.y, 137, 138, 156, 171, 189, 234; Journal of the Kew Guild, 8, 24; Kew Guides, 361 ; Landscape Gar- dening (Samuel Parsons, jim.) , 3 ; Lehrbuoh des Gartenbaues mit Besonderer Beruckstichtigung Schweizericher Verhiiltnisse ( Von Max Lribner), 291 ; L'Hybridation des Plantes ( Raphael deNoter).323', Manual of Forestry (Dr. W.ScdZic/i). . 169, 232; Manual of the Trees of North America (Charles Sprague Sargent). 307, 379 ; Monograph of Trees and Shrubs {J. Woodward Manning), 317 ; My Garden Diary {Sutton ^ Sons), 58; My New Zealand Garden (A Suffolk Lady), 201, 380; One-and-AU' Gardening Annual, 90; Orchid Review, the, 53 ; Pictorial Practical Tree and Shrub Culture (fK. P. Wright and W. Dallimore), 249; Pigs for Profit i.John Walker), 25; Poisonous Plants (A. Bernard Smith), 340 ; Publications Received, 76, 86, 122, 154, 217, 233, 249, 299, 313, 396 ; Ratepayers' Guide (Qoddard), 42; Eepertoire de Couleurs pour aider ;i la determination des Couleurs des Fleurs des Feuillages et des Fruits (Jlf. Henri Dauthinay), 312 ; Species and Varieties, their Origin by Mutation (Hugo de Fries), 321 ; Sweet Pea Annual, 89; Thalacker's Adressbuchund Kalender.42 ; The Antiquary, 24 ; The Book of the Lily {William Goldring), 157 ; The Book of the Potato (T. iv. Sanders), 212; The Book of the Eose (Rev. A. Foster-Melliar), lt)l ; Book of Topiary, the (C. K. Curtis and Gibson), 20 ; The Culture of Fruit Trees in Pots (J. Brace), 45 ; The Garden Magazine, 121 ; The Muui- I'ipal Parks, Gardens and Open Spaces of London (Lt.-Col. Se.rby), 396; The Eational Almanac, 313 ; The Tropical Agriculturist, 201, 275 ; Timber Trades Journal, 201 ; Variation of Animals and Plants under Domestication (Chas. Da/r- uin), 154 ; Vegetables and their • 'ulture (T. U'. Sanders), 117: \'egetables Photographed from Nature (Ernest Benary), 169 ; Willing's Press Guide, 9 ; Year Book of New South Wales, 150 Borassusflabelliformis with branches, 263 Bordeaux-Mixture, how to make, 288 Botanical Congress at Vienna, 153, 378 Bougainvillea spectabilis in America, 168 Brace, J. (The Culture of Fruit Trees in Pots), 45 ,A Brassia brachiata, 245 Briscoe, Mr. T. W., appointment of, 248 British Columbia, fruit-growing in, 141, 154 Brunfeisia calycina var. macrantha, 130 Brussels Botanic Gardens, 91 Bud variation, lecture on, 174 Building Trades Exhibition, 281 Buitenzorg Botanic Gardens, reor- ganisation of, 217 Bulb garden, the, 275, 340 Bulb-mite, the, 185 Burford, Orchids at, 116, 140 Cabbage, Sutton's April, 330 ; the Chinese, 325 Cabbages, bolting, 354 ; early, 137 Caladium-culture, 149 Calandrinias as garden plants, 386 Calla, *' Soft-rot " disease in, 9 Calodendron capense in the Botanic Garden, Sydney, 293 Camellia-tree destroyed by fire, 25 Camellias, 218 ; at Leyswood, 57 ; in the open, 202. Campanula garganica hirsuta, 97 ; C. glomerata with a short pedun- cle, 199 ; C. persicifolia in France, 372 Cantua buxifolia, 189 Caoutchouc and Coffee, 153 Cape Colony, Apples from, 232, 284 ; horticulture in, 150 Carbolic acid as a remedy for Cer- cospora melonis, 235 Cardiff parks, presentation of plants to, 153 Carnations, Elizabeth, 284 ; Fla- mingo, 121 ; at Worth Park, Crawley, 13 ; in America, 121 ; Glacier and Mrs. S. J. Brooks, 13 Carpet-bed, a novel, 253 Carpolyza spiralis, 46 Castilloa rubber, lOl Castles at Walmer and Deal, 102 Catalpa " J. C. Teas," 3S1 Cattleya labiata first fiowered by Sir W. Hooker, 9 ; C. labiata splen- dens, 53 ; C. Mossise Nalderiana, 390 Ceanothus thyrsiflorus, 178 Cedar of Goa, the, 219 Cedars, measurements of some large, 202 Cedrus Deodara var. alba spica, 44, 59, 70, 105 Cephalipterum Drummondi for millinei-y purposes, 154 Cercospora melonis ("spot" disease of Cucumbers), 13 ; alleged causes of, 284; carbolic acid as a cure for, 235 Ceropegia tusca, 373 ; C. Woodi, the fruit of, 244 Certificated Fruits and Vege- tables. — Apple Fenn's Wonder, 16; Cucumber DeUcacy, 333, 351 ; Peach Peregrine, 351 ; Pear Santa Claus. 16; Potato Syou House ProUfic, 237 ; The Factor, 268 ; lihubarb Hobday's Giant, 302 AJSJf iV Tbe Gardeners' Chronicle,] INDEX. [June 21, 1905. Certificated Plants. — Adonis amurensis, 172 ; Aerides Ortgiesi- anum, 16 ; Anthurium Scherzeri- anum burfordiense, 236: Aster sub cceruleus, 397 ; Auricula Daf- fodil. 230; A. Favourite, 236; A. Rifleman, 301 ; A. Standard Bearer, 236; A. Vesta, 301; Be- gonia Madame Adeline Patti, 349; B. Madame Granby, 319 ; Bletia, tjacinthina alba (p. iii., Supp., June 3) J Brassavola Perrini, 398; Brasso - Cattleya Digbyano- Schroderse Tankervillioe, 174 ; B.-C. ;; Digbyano-Trianie Heaton ■variety, 174; B.-C. X Mrs. J. Leeman, 302 ; B.-C. x nivalis, 268 ; Bulbophyllum radiatum, 398; B. Eeinwardtii, 302; Ca- lanthe X Chapmani, 61 ; Can- tua buxifolia, 172 ; Carnation Elizabeth, 267 ; C. Flamingo, 204 ; C. General Kuroki, 172; C. Har- lowarden, 236 ; C. Lady Bountiful, 301 ; Carex Vilmorini, 107 ; Cat- tleya cifcrina maxima (p. ii., Supp., June 3) ; C. Mendeli •Cicero (p. iii., Supp., June 3) ; 0. M. Pittiffi, 398 ; C. x Oc- tave Doin, 61 ; C. x Pittiae, 333; C. Schilleriana Westfield variety (p. iii., Supp,, June 3) ; ■C. Schroderie alba var. " Madame Louis de Hemptinne," 268 ; C. SchroderiE "Eobin," 268; Chrys- anthemum Market (iold, 14 ; •Cirrhopetalum guttatum, 398 ; Clematis montana rubens, 301, 332 ; Ctelogyne Lawrenceana, 203 ; C. speciosa alba, 205; Corydalis Wilsoni, 236; Cotoneaster pan- nosa, 60 ; Crinum Rattrayii, 204 ; ■Crocus chrysanthus var., 107 ; Crowea angustifolia, 204; Cym- bidium rhodooheilum, 302 ; C. Sanderi, 108 ; Cypripedium :-. Alcibiades, 16 ; C. :■: aureum, 61 ; ■C. X Chas. Eickman var. magni- fica, 174 ; C. X Dom Carlos " Rex," 333 ; C. x G. F. Moore, 61; C. X Haywoodianum, 174; C. X Honoria;, 108; C. x Law- rebel, 61 ; C. X Leeanum J. Gur- mey Fowler, 61 ; C. ;■, Leonise, 108 ; C. X Memoria Jerninghamiaa, 15 ; ■C. X San-Actieus, 61 ; C. x West- fieldiense, 16 ; Cyrtanthus angus- •tifolius grandiflorus, 267 ; Den- drobium asmulum, 108 ; D. x ■Chessingtonense, 174 ; D. crumen- atum, 302 ; D. cymbidioides, 108 ; D. X Elwesii, 174 ; D. fimbriatum ooulatum Westonbirt variety, 237 ; D. X Haywoodia", 205 ; D. moniliforme, 205 : D. Phalffinop- sis Chardwar variety, 16 ; D. tri- florum, 16 ; D. x Venus Cookson's variety, 333 ; D. Wardianum ■candidum, 174 ; Edraianthus pumila, 349 ; Eremurus Elwesii albua. 349 ; Epidendrum x Boundii, 237 ; E. pterocarpum, 398 ; E. X radico - vitellinum, 398 ; Epi-Lselia x Sylvia, 302 ; E.-L. X vitellbrosa, 397 ; Erica mediter- ranea hybrida, 60 ; E. x Veitchii, 172 ; E. Willmoreana grandiflora, 204 ; Euphorbia Wulfeni, 301 ; Helleborus orientalis Stephen Olbrich, 172 ; Heloniopsis brevi- scapa, 172 ; HemerocalUs corona, 397; Impatiens Holsti, 397; Iris Xeptune, 397 ; I. Persephone, 332 ; Lachenalia Brilliant, 140 ; L. Jean Rogers, 140 ; La?lia x lona nigrescens, 141 ; La'lio-Cattleyax Charlesworthii magnifica, 61 ; L.-C. X G. S. Ball magnifica, 302 ; L.-C. X King of Spain, 398; Lobelia tenuior var. rosea, 332 ; Lyeaste Skinneri atro-san guinea, 174 ; L. S. alba var. magnifia, 141 ; Meconopsis integrifolia, 207 ; M. punicea, 301 ; Narcissus Alice Knight, 237 ; N. Banzai, 208 ; N. Cornelia, 26S ; N. Countess of Stamford, 268 ; N. Helen, Countess of Radnor, 268 : N. King's Norton, 237; N. Lady of the Snows, 255; N. Leedsii Ariadne, 205 ; N. Lord Kitchener, 237 ; N. Marie Hall, 268 ; N. odorus rugulosus maximus, 255 ; N. "Warleyen- sis, 255; N. Wm. Foster, 268; Odontoglossum :• Adrians aureum, 205 ; O. :■; amabile, 174 ; O x a. var. " Ixiou " (p. iii., Supp., June 3) ; 0. x amoenum, Sander's variety, 237 ; O. X ardentissimum Doris, 205 ; O. X a. Lamus, 205 ; O. X a. Sybil, 205; 0. crispnm aureum, 302 ; 0. c. Britain's Queen, 237 ; 0. c. Louis L. Sander, 302 ; O. e. Prince Leopold, 205 : O. c. Smeeauum, 268; O. c. "Titus," 302; O. X Lawrenceanum, 174 ; 0. >: L. Adonis (p. iii., Supp., June 3) ; O. liliflorum, 108; O. Lindleyanum aureum, 302 ; O. >, loochristyense Arddarrock var., (p. iii , Supp., June 3) ; 0. X 1. Tracyanum, 141 ; O. X Lucasianum heaton- ense, 333 ; O. X mirificum, 61 ; O. ramosissimum Burford variety, 237 ; O. X Thompsonianum, 268 ; O. >; Wiganianum, 237 ; Odontonia X Lairesseae, 398 ; Oneidium O'Brienianum, 268 ; P»ony Her Grace, 398 ; P. La Fiancee, 398 ; Pelargonium (Ivy - leaved) Hon. Mrs. Boyle, 349 ; P. (Ivy-leaved) M. Eosaleur, 349 ; Phlox canaden- sis " Perry's variety," 349 ; Poly- stachya Haroldiana, 333 ; Primula X Arendi, 349 ; P. japonica var. pulverulenta, 301 ; P. sinensis "His Majesty," 107; P. tangu- tica, 301 ; P. Veitchii, 301 ; P. vittata, 332 ; Pteris cretica gene- rosa, 301 ; Pulmonaria arvernen- sis alba, 172 ; Ehododendrons (Azaleas) Julius Koehrs, 349 ; E. Smithii aureum, 319; Eodgersia pinnata alba, 398 ; Rosa gigan- tea, 140 ; Roses David Harum, 349; Lady Gay, 349; Philadelphia Climber, 349 ; Prince de Bulgarie, 107 ; Sarracenia flava gigantea, 349 ; Sophro-La^lia y. laeta Orpet- iana, 39S ; Streptocarpus Eoyal Purple,39S; Sweet Pea Henry Eck- ford. 398 ; Tulipa dasystemon, 268 ; T. Fosteriana, 26S ; Tulips Ari- adne, 302; Clara Butt, 302; Claude Ciuillot, 302 ; Innocence, 333 ; King Harold, 302 ; Orange Beauty, 302; Quaintness, 333; Whistler, 333; Vanda Watsoni, lo.s ; Ver- bena hybrida The King, 349 ; Zygopetalum x Ballii (p. iii., Supp., June 3) ; Z. x Crawshay- anum, 333; Z. discolor atro-Cffiru- leum, 237 Chamberlain, Mr. Joseph, and the British Gardeners' Association, 58 ; his garden at Highbury, 23 Channel Islands, produce from, 217 Charities, donations to the garden- ing, 42 Chelsea Physic Garden, the, 289 Cherries, flowering, 384 Cherry, the Chinese, 262 Chesfield, Hampton Wick, 396 China, plant - collecting in (E. H. Wilson), 113, 337, 356, 382 Chinese Cabbage, the, 325 ; Cherry, the, 262 Chlora longebracteata, 217 Christensen, Carl i^Index Filicum), 330 Chrysanthemum grafting, 25 Chrysanthemum Mrs. Swinburne and its sport, 28, 44 ; C. Winter Cheer, 80 Chrysanthemums, Allman's Yellow, 80; an audit of, 14; early- flower- ing varieties of , 304 ; in France, 40, 85; manures for, 41; new Conti- nental, 101 ; tied down, 53, 76, 85 Cirropetalum Medusce robustum, 45, 373 Cities, garden, 138, 283, 379 Climate, and cultivation, lecture on, 161 ; influenceof, on vegetables,313 Clematis, grafting, 256 ; C. grata for covering low walls, 229; the pro- pagation of, 112 Clerodendron myrmecophilum, 217 Cobham Park Gardens, Surrey, 74 Ccelogyne cristata showing regular peloria, 101 Coffeaexcelsa asa source of Coffee,153 Cole, Mr. Eex Vicat (British Trees), 379 Coleus shirensis, 163 Colonial exhibition, at the Crystal Palace, 137; in the Royal Horti- cultural Hall, 206 Colonial notes, 46, 117, 130, 150, 229, 371, 392 Colour in Apples, 12 Concert in aid of gardening charities, 138, 217 Conifers as reclaimers of waste lands, 49 Co-operative grading of fruit, 153 Cordyline indivisa, 91 Cornus florida rubra, 326 Cornwall, early Potato culture in, 30 Cranberries for market purposes, 126, 139 Crane-fly, some new facts concerning the, 34 Crocus chrysanthus and its varieties, 148 ; C. Malyi, 163 Crops, rotation of kitchen-garden, 99, 122, 147 Crowea angustifolia, 242 Cryptomeria japonica and other Conifers at Ardwell, 218 ; C. ja- ponica at Dropmore, 44, 105 ; large specimens of, 59, 170 Cucumber-seed, vitality of, 124 Cucumber mildew, 386 ; " spot " disease, 13, 138, 156, 188,219, 251, 265, 284, 316; alleged cures for, 28, 201, 235 Cucumbers grown without fertilisa- tion, 201 Cultivation, experimental, 20, 08, 131, 289; profitable, 129 Cupressus torulosa and the Cedar of Goa, 219 Currant-bud mite, the, 284, 298, 316, 341 Currants, Pear-shaped, 36 Cultural memoranda, 40, 149, 244 Cyclamen Coum, an interesting va- riety of, 133 Cyclamen, proliferous, 117 Cymbidium grandiflorum, 130 ; C. rhodocheilum, 378 ; C Sanderi, 115 Cynorchis Lowiana, 98 Cypress-Pines of New South Wales, 41 Cypripedium x Argo-Mastersianum, 245 ; C. barbatum, 381 ; C. exul, a fused flower of, 146 ; C. Fairie- anum, rediscovered, 265 ; C. Hay- woodianum, 195 ; C. x Leeanum " J. Gumey Fowler," 88 Cypripediums at Flixton, near Manchester, 27 Daffodils, a census of, 265 Daffodils causing skin irritation, 171 ; for public taste, 235 Dahlia tubers, vitality in, 218 Dahlias The Mikado, 13, 29 ; a new strain, 196 Danae racemosa and the Laurel wreath, 14 Dean Hole, memorial to, 232 Dean, Richard, proposed testi- monial to, 297; (The Culture of Siveet Peas), 283 Dendrobium chrysotoxum at Kew, 283 ; D. fimbriatum oculatum at Cherkley Court, Leatherhcad, 160 ; D. parcum, a species with a movable labellum, 314 ; D. Seidel- ianum, 355, 390 ; D. undulatum at Kew, 283 ; D. Wardianum grown under cool treatment, 245, 266 Dendrobiums at Burford, 146 De Vries, on mutation, 321 Devon, South, gale in, 298 Digging, right or left-handed, 75, 90 Dlnter, Herr, 217 Disa grandiflora, a yellow variety of, 166 Discount to gardeners, 104 Diseases of trees, illustrations of, 217 ; of plants, investigation of, 381 Douglas Fir, section of a trunk of the, 69 Drip in plant-houses, appliances for preventing, 86, 138, 155, 102, 196, 234, 284 EcKFORD, Mr. H.. proposed testi- monial to, 108, 185,395 Edinburgh International Horticul- tural Exhibition, 40, 152 Egypt, Onions from, 217 Elseocarpus reticulatue, 150 Elder, the, 248 Electricity, dispelling fog in plant- houses by, 90 EUwanger, George, 137 Embankment Gardens, the Thames, 88 Epidendrum Allemani, 98 ; E. ciliare at Kew, 283 ; E. Endresiiat Kew, 70 Ephedra, the genus, 13 Epiphytes in England, 154 Eremurus, the species of, 66, 98, 133, 148, 358, 361, 362; for large beds, 384 Erica mediterranea hybrida, 40; E. Veitchii x , 138, 228 Eueharis, the culture of, 13 Eugenia Ugni, fruits of, 89 Evesham, Asparagus culture at, 345 j market gardening at, 275 ; gar- deners' visit to France, 52, 76, 169 Examinations in horticulture, 185; for school teachers, 57, 136 Experimental cultivation, 20, 68, 289 Experiments with fungous diseases, 380 Falmouth garden, plants in a, 285, 315, 341 Fasciatiou in Agaricus personatus, 342 Fernery, the, 170, 229, 307, 375 Pern fronds, the diversity of form in, 33 ; pest, a curious, 375 ; culture of hardy, 170; tree, 70,124; va- rieties, a protest, 229 Fir Grange, Weybridge, 134, 165 Fires in country houses, 58 Fisher, Mr. Peter, 155 Florida garden, a, 81 Florists' flowers, 11, 21, 38, 195, 250, 276, 304 ; degeneration of, 184 Flower beds, effective, 315 ; summer, 330 Flower garden, the, 7, 23, 39, 55, 70, 87, 102, 119, 135, 151, 107, 183, 198, 215, 231, 247, 263, 279, 295, 310, 327, 343, 359, 377, 393 Flower-pot, the "Tectum," 131 Flowers, a chart for determining the colour of, 312 ; in season, 153, 200, 265, 282. 297, 313, 361, 378 ; in the south-western counties, 212, 362 j the abuse of, 281 Fog, effects of, on plants at Kew and other places, 12, 90 The Gardeners' Chronicle,] INDEX. tJime24, 1905. Forcing vegetables, 36 Foreign correspondence, 10, 162, m 29i, 358, 372 f'orests, natural and artificial, lec- ture on, 221 Forestry, 82, 101, 132, 210, 317, 370 381J ; at Oxford, 153 ; exhibition at Park Royal, 281 ; extra-tropical, 371 ; facts and fancies in, 44, 155 ; land given for teaching, 90 Fossil plants, 12, 29 iPoster-Melliar, Eev. A. (Boot of the Hose), 101 Frost, an instrument for foretelling (Pagoscope), 133 Frost, effects of, 341, 360 Fruit Committee, the Departmental, 42, 137, 1G8, 200, 232 Fruit, co-operative grading of, 153 Fruit- crops and the weather, 3G2 Fruit-growing, a conference on, 281 ; in British Columbia, 141, 154; preserving, a lecture on, 61 ; register, 6, 36, 69, 115, 148, 182, 309 Fruit-trees, how to make a wall- shade for, 196 ; sjjraying, 121 Fruits, small, found in foreign cata- logues, 374, 397 Fruits under glass, management of, 6, 23, 39, 55, 71, 87, 102, 119, 135, 160, 166, 182, 199, 215, 231, 240, 262, 279, 294, 311, 327, 342, 359, 376, 393 Fuchsias, raising seedling, 298 Fungus diseases propagated in the seed, 296 ; experiments with, 380 VjAbden cities, 138, 283, 379 Garden insects, a Ojnference on, 208 Garden tent, how to malie a cheap, 357 Gardener and minister, a, 73 Gardeners, lectures to Aberdeen, 104 ; the training of young, 14, 44, 59 Gardening in Austria and Germany, 305 Gardening papers, notes on English, 25 ; a new American, 396 Gardening, the pleasures of, 113 Gatton Park, Orchids at, liJO Gentiana acaulis, a white variety of, 313 Geuyorchis pumila, 166 Geological Held class, the London, 248 German South-West Africa, 248 Ghent Quinquennial Exhibition, 396 Gibson James, appointment to Wel- beck Abbey, 121, 130 Gilbert's, Sir Henry, library, 58 ; Gladiolus, the hybridisation of, 145 Glass, toughened, 42 Goldring, William (The Book of the Lily), 157 nopsis, disease in, 140 ; in flower at Messrs. Charlesworth's nursery, 131 ; P. Sehilleriana, enormous specimens of, at Tring Park, 152 Philageria Veitchii X , 373 Phlox, herbaceous, propagating, 196 Phrenix Robelini in the South of France, 206 Phylloxera, lysol used for destroy- ing, 24 Physianthus albens fruiting in tie open, 155 Pictures at the Royal Academy, 273 Pineapples, the hybridisation of, 41 Pink and Saponaria grafted, 163 Pink, the, 389 Pinus insignis, 235 ; planting, 155 ; P. Xelsoni, 306 Plant diseases, investigation of, 381 Planting, wise and unwise, 313 Plant Portraits; — ^chraea la- vandulaeea, 170 ; Angelonia in- tegerrima, 89, 376; Apple Cellini Pippin, 370; Arbutus Unedo, 163 ; Begonia Triompbe des Belvedere, 340; Bowkeria Gerardiana, 361: Bulbophyllum crenulatum. 89 ; Burbidgeaschizostyla, 232 ; Cadal- vena spectabilis, 9 ; Catasetum Christyanum, 232 ; Cattleya War- scewiczii, 376 ; Colchicum libano- ticum, 296 ; Cotoneaster rotundi- folia, 232 ; Cotyledon elegans, 9 ; Cypripedium Albertianum, 376 1 C. auriferum, 376; C. Elmire- anum, 376 ; C. Madame Jules Hye, 376 ; Dendrobium regnnm, 170 ; Derris albo-rubra, 232 ; Erica lusitaniea, 301 : Euphorbia pul- cherrima plenissima, 163 ; Gnidia polystachya, 89: Hippophae rham- noides, 290; Iris "Parsamb" X, 228 ; Listrostachys bidens, 290 ; Lobelia tenuior, 313 ; Lycaste lo- custa, 361 ; Magnolia hypoleuca, ,163;NepenthesEajah,361;Pinanga maculata, 232 ; Phyllostachys ni- gra, 9; Prunus pseudo-Cerasus. 296 ; Meconopsis integrifolia, 228 ; Musa paradisiaca rubra, 103 ; Ne- penthes Vallierfe, 340 ; Nerine Bowdeni, 310 ; Nicotiana Forget- iana, 17o ; N. Sanderfe, 103 ; Pelargonium Lady Mary Fox, 340 : Rhabdothamnus Solandri, 361 : Rhododendron Perle de Ledeberg, 242 ; Rhipsalis dissimilis var. setu- losa, 290 ; Romneya trichocalyx, 170 ; Rosa Hugonis, 170 ; K. mos- chata nivea, 340 ; Roses Madame Jean Dupuy, 340; Madame Nor- bert Levavasseur, 46 ; Schnee- wittchen, 340 ; Swainsona Mac- cuUochiana, 9; Tulipa linifolia, 89 ; Vanilla Humblotii, 9 ; Tucoa guatemalensis, 89 Plants, New or Noteworthy:— Acanthus Perringi, 2 ; Arach- nanthe annamensis, 391 ; Caltha elata, 178 ; Co^logyne Lawrence- ana, 227 ; C. nitida and C. n. alba, 274 : Cymbidium Schroderi. 243 ; Cypripedium Fairieanum, 274 ; C. Grati'ixianum, 76 ; Cyrtanthus inoequalis, 261 ; Heloniopsis brevi- scapa, 178 ; Kalanchoe angolensis, 370; K. magnidens, 370; Ma- lortiea Tuerckheimii, 19; Nar- cissus Corbularia monophylla x Tazetta, 82; Platyclinis latifolia, 70; P. uncata, 45; Plectranthus crassus, 98 ; Primula Cockburniana , 331, 345; P. Cottia, 130; P. deorum, 98; P. Veitchii, 344; Rhabdothamnus Solandri, 140 ; Rosa Banksice, 227 ; R. micro- carpa (sorbiflora), 227, 266 ; Seaphyglottis Cogniauxiana, 33 ; Stapelia divergens, 49 Plants, shelter for, 193; some new aquatic, 121 Plants under glass, management of, 7, 23, 38, 55, 71, 86, 103, 118, 134, 151, 167, 182, 198, 215, 230, 247, 202, 278, 294, 311, 326, 342, 358, 377, 392 Poet, lines from a Scottish, 341 Poisonous insecticides, 360 ; fine for sale of, 20O Polygonum cuspidatum for holding banks, 153 Post Office vagaries, 89 Pot, the " Tectum " flower, 131 Potato-cooking tests, 2, 83, 164, ISO Potato Discovery, 266 ; experiments at Cambridge University, 217 ; scab disease, 185; too much 1, 9 ; P. Up-to-Date, 2 Potatos, alleged degeneracy of varie- ties of, 219, 252, 258 ; census of varieties of, 61 ; culinary value of, 153 ; eii'ect of soil and manure on the flavour of, 125, 132 ; expi'ess culture, 179 ; extra early, from Ireland, 378 ; lecture on retarded, 237 ; in Cornwall, 30 ; planting, 80,201,218,234,252, 284; prices of , 44, 284; raising new varieties of, 100, 132; the shapes of, 153; total production of, in 1904, 217 ; warty disease and lime, 100 Prevention of Corruption Bill, the. 168 Primula deorum, 340 ; P. Veitchii, 344 ; P. vittata, 390 Prince's restaurant, winter garden at, 282 Pruning Roses, 203 Pulmonaria arvernensis alba, 201 QuBKCus pedunculata and Q. sessili- fiora, rate of growth compared, 132 Eaffia tape, a new tying material, 313 Railway rates, 296 Rainfall and the Wheat crop, the, 185 ; at Eothamsted in 1904, 20 ; in CO. Kilkenny, 59 ; in 1904, the. 41 Eedoute. the botanical works of, 41 E«hmannia angulata at Lockinire, 4i' Ehodes', the late Cecil, gardens near Kimberley, S A., 67 Rhododendrons, 354, 370 ; at Regent's Park, 378 ; at Singleton, 1,36, 155 ; Himalayan, 136, 155, 189 Eipersia terrestris, a root parasite, 202 Eiviera, frost in the, 42, 58 Roberts, Mr. J., presentation to, 153 Robinson, E. Kay (The Country Day hu flay). S3 Roofs, thatched, 15 4 Rooks, the utility of, 121 Rosa gigantea flowering. 42. 136 : R. microcarpa (sorbiflora), 227,200 Rosary, the, 42, 101, 117, 203, 213, 381, 392 Roses, a hybrid between R. micro- phylla andR. rugosa, 21 1; Dorothy Perkins, 381 ; Fortune's yellow, 214 ; Frau Peter Lambert, 101 ; Cirand Duchess Alexandra, 117 ; climbing, 213, 381 ; Etoile de France, 381 ; from Gordon's grave at Khartoum, 73 ; inserted buds remaining dormant. 384 ; pruning, 203 ; wild, at Kew, 392 Eotation of kitchen-garden crops, 37, 99, 122 Eothamsted, rainfall at, in 1904, 20 Eoval Horticultural Society's Awards, 328, 345, 384 Rubber, CastUloa, 104; in the Guianas, 374 Rust diseases transmitted in the seed, 296 Rutherfurd, Helena (Another Hardy, Garden Booh), 380 Sahaeanpce Botanic Garden, 9 Sander's, Messrs., nursery at Bruges,, 251 Sander, Mr. Edgar, 395 Sanders, T. W. (The Boole of the Potato, ^■i-.),212 Sapindus marginatus, 195 Sargent, Charles Sprague (Manual of the Trees of North America), 307 .Sarracenia Catesbaei, 73 Saxifraga Burseriana and its varie- ties, 197 Seaphyglottis Cogniauxiana, habitat of, 121 Scheider, CamUlo Karl (Illustrierie^ Handbuch der Laubholzkunde) . 169 Schlich, Dr. W. (Manual of Foreitry), 109, 232 Schroder, Baron, retirement of, from Council of the Royal Horticultviral Society, 312 Schizanthus wisetonensis, 362 ; as pot plants, 341 Scientific Committee:— Agapan- thxis stems attacked with fungus, 30 : Amaryllis bulbs diseased, 219 ; Apples affected with Brown- rot, 120 ; Arums diseased, 254, 280 ; Ash, fasciated branch of, 78 j the Stag's-horn, 190; Auricula- flower, a striped, 286 ; Big bud in Hazel, 78 ; Capnodium on Oranges, 190; Carnations diseased, 30 j Cereus amecaensis, 364 ; Cock- roach, a new, in greenhouses, 120 ; Cotoneaster, scale on, 364 ; Crinum. bulbs, diseased, 158; and injured- 189 ; Crinum Rattrayi, 219 ; Croton and Dracaena leaves decaying, 158 ; Cucumbers, disease of, 190; Cyclamen leaves discoloured, 78; Cyrtanthus lutescens, 158;, Daffodil poisoning, 158, 190-. Dendrobium chrysotoxum with- abnormal spur, 286 ; Deteriora- tion of vegetatively reproduced varieties, 254 ; Dialttlia Veitchii, a bigeneric Orchid, 190; Douglas Fir, a short-leaved form of the, 30 ; Etherisation of plants, 318 ^ Eucalyptus occidentalis, galls on, 78 ; Fasciation in plants, 254 ;. Fruit-buds, formation of, 190 ;. injury to, 318 ; Galanthus niva,lis var. poculitormis, 158 ; Hail, effect of, 190 ; Hazel, big bud in, 30, 78 ^ Henslow, Eev. Prof., testimonial to, 30, 78,, 158, 189 ; Horse-Chest- nut shoots injured, 286 ; twigs diseased, 254; Iris, malformed, 254;. Spanish Iris, diseased, 219 ; Iris with two anthered stamens, 286 ^ Lampronja rubiella, the Easpberry moth, 364 ; Laurel leaves diseased, 158, 364 ; Meconopsis integrifolia awarded a Botanical Certificate.. 280 ; Montbretia corms failing, 318; Mushrooms, malformed, 158; Narcissus Bulbocodium, geographi- cal forms of, 254, 280 ; Narcissus, fly, the, 254 ; Orange-leaves covered with Capnodium, 190 ; Oranges attacked by Scale, 30 ; Oranges, " Navel," 126 ; Orobutta lapidaria, a mite in- festing Apple-trees, 78 ; Page- scope, the, 318 ; Peziza coccinea on a tree trimk, 1 20 ; Phyllo- cactua and Cereus hybridised, 318 ; Phyllocactus, forms of. The Gardeners' Cliroaicle,! INDEX. [June 24, 1906. Vll 304: spots on, 78; Pine - bud moth, the, ISO ; Pine shoots in- jured by Retiaia buoliana, 15S ; PotatDs, alleged deterioration of varieties of, 12i.;, IJS, 220, 2:57, 28i;, 318; Priujrose, a double, 28G ; maltormed, 286 ; Primulas, new species of, 3l>4 ; Ranunculus asiati- cus var. sany;uinea, 285 ; Eetinia buoliana.au insect injuring Pines, 158; Ricbardia diseased, 21t) ; with second spathe, 2SG, 864 ; Rose rust, €oleospoiium pingue, 2.31; Rose shoots injured by weevils, 318; Rye, effect of manure on, 318 ; Scillas, seedling, 3Ls ; Sechium edule, cjermination of, 30 ; Seeds from Caucasus, 364; Spirits of taa* for healing wounds on trees, 78 ; Spruce-Fir, galls on, 219 ; Testacella haliotidea, the worm- eating slug, 126 ; Tropteolum, a hybrid, 31.S ; Tubercularia vul- garis on Beech . 78 : Vine leaves spotted, 2o4; Walnut, slime fuu- gus on, 78 ; Wisley, scientitic re- search at, 190 : Witch's-broom on Hornbeam, 234 ; Worm - eating slug, a, 12G : Yew shoots injured by an alga, 364 Soilly Isles, the, 58 Seat, garden, how to malie a Bam- boo, 293 Seedling trees, the handling of, 10 Seed sowing, 212, 252, 316, 325 Seeds packed for transit, 90, 124, 139, 163, 171 Seeds, vitality of, 124 Seedsman as High Sheriff, 233 Senecio auriculatissimus, 213 Shelter for plants, 193 Shrubs suitable for the Midland Counties, 192, 208 ; sweet-scented, 154 ; transplanting, 90, 124 Simpson, Mr. C, presentation to, 329 Singleton, Rhododendrons at, 136, 155 ; Tsuga mertensiana at. 155 Skin irritation, plants causing, 41 Small Holdings Act, 297 Smith,A. Bernard {toiionousFlanU) , 340 Snowdrops, early, 42 Societies : —Aberdeen College of Agriculture, 158: Aberdeen Chrys. , 78 ; Addlestone, Chertsey, and Ottershaw Gardeners', 142, 190. 386; Agricultural Seed Trade Association, 367 ; Barnsley Paxton, 158 ; Bath Gardeners' Self-Help and Debating, 47, 79, 222 ; Bath and District Gardeners', 16, 47, 286; Beckenham Hort., 31. 239; Blairgowrie Hort., 282 ; Bourne- mouth and District Gardeners', 222, 271, 386; Bristol and District Gardeners', 47, 190, 286; British Gardeners' Association, 25. 28, 41, 58,«73, 93, 110, 141, 152, 171, 190, 206, 222, 271, 313, 319, 330, (annual meeting) 364, 378 ; Brix- ton, Streatham and Ciapham Hort., 190, 222 ; Cardifi (Jardeners', 47, 79. 126, 190, 222 ; Chelmsford and District Gardeners', 47, 79, 94, 112; Chester Paxton, 79, 94, 158, 222, 270; Cornwall Daffodil and Spring Flower, 239 ; Crawley and District Gardeners', 94, 126 ; Croy- don and District Hort., 31,7s, 190, 222, 239, 286 ; Devon and Exeter Gardeners', 190, 222 ; Devon Daffo- dil and Sprine Flower. 254 ; Dor- chester and District Gardeners', 94 : Ealing Hort., 319 ; Egham and District Gardeners', 16, 31, 94, 386 ; GcU'deners' Debating, 16, 31, 47. 79, 94, 112, 126, 142, 158, 190, 222. 239, 286, 386; Ghent Chambre Syndicale. 137, 169 ; Headley G.ir- deners', 190 ; Horticultural Cluh, 30, (annual meeting and dinner) 110, 221, 303, 378 ; Isle of Wight Hort., 31, 142,239; Kingston Gar- deners', 79, 94, 142. 126, 222 ; Lee, Blackheath, and West Kent Hort., 222 ; Liege Hort. Exhibi- tion, 318 ; Linnean, 24, 57, 89, 93. 120, 126, 153, 20O, 206, 218, 270, 312, 319, 360, 38R; anniversary meeting, 330; Liverpool Hort., 94 ; London Dahlia Union, 78 ; Lough- borouiih and District Cxardeners", 222 ; Manchester and N. of England Orchid, 30, 78, 110, 142, 17.). 221, 319 ; Midland Auricula (annu.al exhibition), 254; Mid- land Carnation and Pieotee, 88 ; National Chrysanthemum, 72. 78 (annual nieetiug), 93, 110, 395 ; Midland Daffodil (annual exhibi- tion), 255 ; National Auricula and Primula, 21.19 ; National Dahlia, 248; National Fruit Growers' Federation, 4], 174; National Potato, 25, 56, 61, 142, 158 ; National Sweet Pea, 30, 190: National Tulip, 333; North Ferriby and IHstrict Gar- deners', 94, 158, 222 ; Nursery and Seed Trade Association, 158; Pang- bourne and District Gardeners', 158 ; Paris International Horticul- tural Exhibition, 72, 324, 32s, 334 ; Professional Gardeners' Friendly Benefit, 141 ; Ramsey Hort., 58 ; Reading and District Gardeners', 94, 142, 190; Redhill, Reigate, and District Gardeners', 16,31,79,94,158,222,286; Royal. 168, 256, 313; Royal Agricultural, 200; R.jyal Botanic, 190, 168, 270, 319, 366 ; Royal Caledonian Hort., 46, 351; Royal Dutch Bulb Growers', 190; Royal Horticultural, 14, 28, 59, 74, 89, 97 (annual meet- ing), 106, 120, 126, 140, 158, 171, 189, 2O0, 204, 232, 235, 266, 280, 300, 312,318,331,378,397; RoyalMeteo- rological, 126 ; Shirley (Southamp- ton) Gardeners', 286 ; Shropshire Hort., 142; Societc Framjaise d' Horticulture de Londres (annual dinner), 47; Societe Neerlandaise d'Horticulture et de Botanique, 366 ; Society for Horticultural Science, 63 ; Surveyors' Institu- tion, 89, 12] , 153, 280, 329 ; Tor- quay District Gardeners', 221 ; Uitenhage, Cape Colony Hort., 208 ; United Hort. Benefit and Provident, 31, 126, 174 (anniuil meeting), 239, 303; Wargrave Gardeners', 16 ; West Indian Agricultural, 126 ; Woodbridge Hort., 78; Worthing and District Gardeners', 112, 286; York Gala, 398 Soft-rot disease of Calla, 9 Solanum Commersoni and edible Potatos, 105 ; S. jasminoides, pro- pagation of, 16 South Africa, Begonia Gloire de Lorraine in, 372 ; horticulture in, 4 South AfricRU garden, a, 67 Species, vanishing, 385 Spraying fruit-trees, 23, 121, 19S Spira?i Billardi, 12 ; S. brauteata, 149 Statice fruticans, 59 Statices at Teneriffe, 9 Stauropsis gigautea, a good speci- men of, 166 Stenoglottis fimbriata, 84 St. James's Hall and horticultural shows, 105 Stocks, .A-pple. raising, 202 Strawberry, alpine, " Millet," 69 Strawberries, manures for, 20 ; the cultivation of, 20 Streptosolen Jamesoni, culture of. 375 Stocktaking, 25, 122, 233, 297, 380 Sugar-growing, up-to-date, 232 Supplies, oversea, 25, 122, 233,297. 380 Sutton, Mr. Leonard, presentation to, 361 Swanley Horticultural College, 185, 201,315 Sweet Peas, note on, 195 Swertia Tashiroi in Japan, 58 Synauthy in Cypripedium Exul, 146 Tacsonia nioUissiraa, fruiting in the open, 284 ; T. Voixemi, the cul- ture of, 46 Temple flower show, the, 344, .345. 386 Teneriffe. extermination of the flora of. 9 Tennis-lawn, dimensions of a, 272 Tent, how to make a Garden, 357 Thames Embankment Gardens,the.88 Theobald, Fred. V. {Insect Life), 279 Thunbergia natalensis, 162 Timber crops, French, 252 ; Malay, 392 Timber value of exotic trees, the, 177, 202, 209, 246, 317 Tipula oleracea (Crane fly), 34 Tomato disease, a new (Alternaria), 92 ; leaves, intumescence of, 338 : "Black stripe" disease of, 201; the trade in, 121 Trachelium co^ruleum, culture of, 46 Training of young gardeners, 14, 44 Transvaal, botany and forestry of the. 371 ; crops suitable for the Heildelberg district of, 230 Transvaal plants, 46: agriculture, 392 Travellers, commercial, in gardens, 315, 325, 341 Tree Ferns, 70 Trees and Shrubs, 10, 138, 195, 230, 250, 262, 321), 384, 389 Tree, illustrations of diseases of, 217 ; the timber value of exotic, 177, 202, 209, 216, 317; trans- planting, 203 Trelissick Lily pond, 324 Treloyhan House, Cornwall, 84 Trenching land, method of, 128 Trillium grandiflorum, 308; T. g. roseum, 375 ; T. g. in the wild garden, 325 Tsuga Mertensianaat Singleton, 155 Tulipa suaveolens and T. pra;stans, 275, 385 Tulips at Ardeairn and Colchester, 353 : late flowering, 3 40 Tunis, frost in, 89 Turf-cutting machine, a new, 191 Turnips grown from Scotch seed, superiority of, 31o Tylney Hall, near Basingstoke, 257 U Undermount, Bonchurcb, Isle of Wight, 122 Upton Grove, Tetbury, the conser- vatory at, 40 Yancouveria hexandra, 376 Yanda Watsoni, 123 Varieties, alleged degeneracy of, 200,219,264,281, 313 Vegetable crops in Italy, 197 Vegetable forcing, 36. 51 Vegetables, 37, 99, 122, 166,201, 330, 354 ; illustrations of. 169 ; influ- ence of climate on, 313 Veitch Memorial Trust, 104 Ventnor in January, 73 Veronica filifolia, 261 Victoria Palls, UgaJida, 229 Yienna Botanical Congress, 153, 373 Viger, M., honour conferred on, 58 Vilmorin Memorial, 24, 265 Vine culture on outside walls, 05, 106,219 Vine, the Hampton Court, 58, 282 Vines, grafted and ungrafted, 233 Violets from Scotland, 171 ; the culture of, 244 Vries, Hugo de (Species and Varie- tieSj the Origin hy Mutation), 321 W AYales, afforestation in 90 Wallflowers, two good varieties of, 284 Wall shade for fruit-trees, how to make a, 196 Walls, beautifying cottage, 99 ; wood ripening on north, 13 Walmer and Deal Castles, 102 Walmer Place, near Deal, 314 Walton Grange, Orchids at, 180 Warren, The Hayes, Kent, 308 Waterfleld,Margaret((?ardenCoIoMr), 374 Watering plants in pot.=, 244 Water supply and the weather, 171 Watsonias, some species of, 275 Weather and the fruit crops, 170, 171, 262, 266, 330, 363 Weigt,Mr. G, H.,appointmentof, 265 Well-head used as a garden orna- ment, 147 Weston, Mr. J. G., presentation to, 360 Wheat-crop and the rainfall, 185 Widdringtonia Whytei. 18 Winter flowers in the South-west of England, 54 Winds, north-east, effect of, 341 Wisley Gardens. 394 ; in spring, 276 Woburn Fruit Farm report, 24 Wood, Mr. J. Medley. 3s 1 Wood ripening on north walls, 13, 59 Woodhatch, lieigate. Orchids at, 145 Worth Park, Tree-Carnations at, 13 Wounds, hereditary transmission of anomalies caused by, 280 Wreath, the ancient Laurel, 14 Uoanda and the Victoria Falls, 229 Xanthorhiza apiifolia, 230 Viil The Gardeners' Chronicle, INDEX. [June 24, 1SK». LIST OF ILLUSTEATIONS. Abelia viniflora, a flowerincj spray of, 323 Adonis amurensis, 18S ^cidium grossularia?, a disease of Gooseterries, 304 Agariciis personatus, a fasciated specimen of, 342 Agave americana flowering at Park- field, 37 Alpine-house, yiew in an, 245 Alternaria solani (a disease of Tomatos), 92 Anemone nemorosa, a double-flow- ered form of, 307 Aphis, the Giant Willow, 243 Apple Fenn's "Wonder, 20 Apple - tree with inter - grafted branches, 250 Arcade made of Bamboo, an, 165 Asparagus Sprengeri in flower, 10 Asters, a bed of, 277 Bamboo, an arcade made of, 165 Bamboo flower - holder, a, 165 ; garden seat, details for construct- ing a, 293 Bars, anti-drip, 86, 138, 155, 196 Bay trees and Azaleas in Messrs. Sander's nursery at Bruges, 251 Beech, Weeping, at Cobham Park, Surrey, 74 Begonia '■ Duchess of Cornwall," p. iv., Supp., June 3 Begonia Rex " Ne Plus Ultra," p. iii. , Supp., June 3 Bee, cell of the Queen, 187 Belvedere, St. LawreiiC3, I.W., view of the rockery at, 181 Brnnsvigia Josephinse, inflorescence of, 186 Brussels Botanic Gardens, view in the winter garden at the, 91 Bullock, Mr. A., portrait of, 7 Calodendron capense, flowers and foliage of, 292 Canna Papa Crozy, 356 Cantua buxifolia, a flowering spray of, 173 Cargo-boats upwards bound, at Ichang, China, 337 Carnation " Elizabeth," 285 Cattleya SchrOdero? " The Baron," p. i., Supp., June 3 Ceanothus thyrsiflorus, a flowering spray of, 179 ; flowering against a wall in Kew Gardens, 179 Ceropegia Woodi, seed pod of, 244 China, views in, 337, 382 Chrysanthemums tied to the staging in a greenhouse, 53 Clarke, Mr. W. H,, portrait of, 7 Cobham Park, Surrey, views in the gardens at, 74, IZ Ccelogyne cristata, a peloric flower of, 101 Cordyline indivisa in the gardens at Abbotsburv Castle, 66 Crane-fly or Daddy-longlegs, the, 34 Cripps, Messrs., prize group at the Temple, 363 Crocus Malyi, 163 Crowea angustifolia, 242 Currant - buds affected with the mite, 31 Cutbush, Messrs., rockery at the Temple, 365 Cyclamen, a proliferous, 117; C. Coum,an interesting variety of, 133 Cymbidium Sanderi, llo Cypripedium Gratrixianum, 77; C. X Haywoodianum, 195 ; C. plants, three well- flowered, 27 Cyrtanthus angustifolius grandi- florus compared with C. insqualis. 261 ; C. inajqualis, a new species from Cape Colony, 261 Daffodils and fruit-trees in an Evesham orchard, 275 Dendrobixim parcum with movable spring-like labellum, 314 Dendrobium triflorum (cymbidi- oides), 15 Divider, a metal, for use in bee- hivjs, 359 Douglas Pir, section of a stem of the, 69 Drip preventives in greenhouses, 86, 138, 155, 196 Ekica arborea, 228; E. lusitanica (codonodes), 228 ; E. x Veitchii, 228 Exoascus deformans. Peach - leaf " blister " disease, 291 Fasciated specimen of Agaricus personatus, 342 Flower-bed, a novel carpet, 253 Flower-holder made of Bamboo, 165 Fyfe, W., portrait oi, 6 Garden tent, details for construct- ing a, 357 Gibson, James, portrait of, 131 Gloxinia Kaiser Wilbelm, 356 Gooseberry disease (iEcidium gros- sulari[p), 304 Grafting, examples of, 199 Grape-vine avenue at Kimberley, S.A., a, 67 Greenhouse sash-bars showing anti- drip appliances, 86, 138, 155, 196 Gull, the black-headed, 35 ; castings of the, 35 Gunnersbury House, view in the Japanese garden at, 269 Heliamphoea nutans, an insecti- vorous plant, 194 Heloniopsis breviscapa, 178 IcHANG, China, scene on the river at, 337 Irene, Transvaal, views in the grounds at, 4, 5 Iris tingitana, 339 Japanese garden at Gunnersbury House, 269 Jordan, F., portrait of, 6 Kimberley, the late Cecil Rhodes' gardens at, 67 King's WaldenBury, Hertfordshire, 43 Kylemore Castle, Co. Gal way, 50 Lachenalias aurea, 211 ; Brilliant and Jean Rogers, 210 ; pendula Aureliana, 211 Lachnus viminalis, the giant Willow aphis, 243 Lampronia rubiella (Raspberry moth), 2SS Larus ridibundus, the Black-headed Gull, 35 Leather-jacket, the, 34 ; burrow of the, 34; burrows excavated by rooks, 34 Leaves of hardy hybrid Oranges, 391 Lilium Glehni, 3 Linton Park, Maidstone, the gar- dener's cottage at, 99 Lissoohilus purpuratus, 290 Meconopsis grandis, 369 ; M. integri- folia, 291 Miller, W. A., portrait of, 6 Moore. Charles, portrait of the late, 299 Narcissus (Corbularia monophylla :■: N. Tazetta), 82 ; Nectarine, 309 ; Pelops, 309 Newstead, Robert, portrait of, 189 Odiham Vicarage, Hampshire, 99 Odontoglossum x amabile var. Ixion (p. ii., Supp., June 3) ; O. X crispo - Harryanum " King Edward," 276 ; O. c. Raymond Crawshay, 375 ; O. X Lawrence- anum, 197; O. X Thompsonianum, 285 ; O. X Wiganianum, 274 Onions, a bed of transplanted, 203 Optimus turf-cutter, 191 Orange-tree, a hardy hybrid, 391 Pagoscope, the, an instrument to foretell the occurrence of frost, 133 Paul,William, portrait of the late, 216 Peach-leaf "blister" (Exoascus de- formans), 294 Pear-midge, the, 315 Pear Passe Crassane, 11; "Santa Claus," 21 Pelargonium '* Madame Crousse " on a house-front at Ventnor, 116 Pergola one mile in length, a, 67 PhalEenopsis growing in Messrs. Charlesworth & Co.'s nursery, Bradford, 131 Phormium tenax in the gardens at Kylemore Castle, 51 Ping-Shan-Pa, the home of the Chinese Primula, 382 Pinus Nelsoni, 306 Pond in Trelissick gardens, 325 Portrait of M. Phillippe de Vilmorin, 47 Primula deorum, 93 ; P. Cockburn- iana (scarlet-flowered), 331 ; home of the Chinese, 382, 383 ; P. vit- tata, 390 Raspberrt-moth, the (Lampronia rubiella), 288 Rhabdothamnus Solandri, 146 Rhododendron hybrid tree at Single- ton, near Swansea, a large, 137; R. Lady Godiva, 371 ; K. Pink Pearl growing in Sunningdale Park, Berks, 354 ; R. Sappho, 370 Rhododendrons in the nursery of Mr. Anthony Waterer, near Woking, 355 Richardias at Trelissick, 324 Rockery exhibited by Messrs. Cut- bush & Son at the Temple Show, 365 Rosa sorbiflora, 227 Roses, Lady Gay, 349; Waltham Bride and Debutante, 347 Sarracenias at the Temple Show, 373 Seat, details for constructing a Bamboo garden, 293 Senecio auriculatissimus, 213 Shades for fruit walls, 196 Spiraea bracteata, 149 Tent, details for constructing a garden, 357 Thunbergia natalensis, 162 Tipula oleracea (Crane-fly), 34 Thomson, D. S., portrait of the late, 368 Tomato disease, a new, 92 ; leaves showing intumescent tissues, 338 Transvaal, a garden staff In the, 4 Treloyhan House, Cornwall, 85 Trillium grandiflorum, 308 Turf-cutter, the Optimus, 191 Tylney Hall, view in the gardens, at, 257, 259 Vanda Watsoni, 123 Vilmorin, M. Philippe de, portrait of, 47 Wall-shade for fruit-trees, 196 Waterfall in tlie grounds at Kyle- more Castle, 51 Well-head as a garden ornament,. 147, 257 Widdringtonia Whytei showing two- forms of growth, IS, 19 Willow aphis, the giant, 243 Wilson, E. H., portrait of, 114 Wood, J. Medley, portrait of, 381 Young, W. H., portrait of, 6 SUPPLEMENTARY Angiopteeis evecta var. Tetsmanniana Growing in the State Botanic Gardens, Brussels (May 27) Berlin Botanic Gardens, Views in the Newly-constructed Rockery OF the (June 10) Bougainvillea spectabilis Flowering at Redlands, California (March 18) Brldge, an Ornamental, in the Gardens at Kingswood, Sydenham Hill (May 6) Brunsvigia qigantea Flowering in the Open at Belvedere, St. Lawrence, I.W. (March 25) Calodendron capense Flowering in the Botanic Gardens, Sydney (May 13) Camellia-house at Leyswood, Groomsbridge (January 28) Castles of Walmer and Deal, on the South-east Coast of Kent (February 18) Cobham Park, Surrey, the Residence op C. Coombb, Esq. (February 4) Cymbidium rhodocheilum (June 17) Ctpbipedium X Leeanum var. J. GuRNEY Fowler (February 11) ILLUSTRATIONS. Highbury, Birmingham, View in the Gardens of the Right Hon. Joseph Chamberlain (January 14) Hooker, Sir Joseph Dalton (January 7) Magnolia Kobus, Deciduous Species from Japan (April 29) Oaks and other Trees in the Arnold Arboretum, Cambridge, Mass., U.S.A. (April 1) Pelargonium Clorind.a, a Large flowering Variety with Scented- Leaves (April 15) PHALiENOPSIS ScHILLERIANA IN THE GARDENS OF LoRD ROTHSCHILD... Trinq Park, Hertfordshire (March 11) Primula sinensis, a Batch of the " Stellate " Type of (February 25) Primula Veitchii (June 3) Rosa gigantea (March 4) Spring Garden in the Grounds at Highbury, near Birmingham (April 8)i View in the Conservatory at Upton Grove, Tetbuey (January 21) View in the Gardens at Chesfield, Hampton Wick (June 21) Views in the Gardens at Walmer Place, near Deal (May 20) Views from German South-West Africa (April 22) January 7, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. TPIE To. \n\.—SATURDA Y, Jan. 7, 190r,. CONTENTS. Almanac for 1905 (Sup- plement) Apple Aunie Elizabeth 6 Apple Cox'iiisli Gilli- liower 6 Apples, colour in ... 12 Asparagus, Sprengeri, flowering spray of ... 10 Bauliiu's, Gaspard, her- barium 9 Books, notices of— A Gardener's Year ... 9 Botanical Magazine.. 9 Journal of the Kew Guild 8 LandscapeGardening 3 Witling's Press Guide y €alla, "soft-rot" dis- 4?aseof the 9 Carnations at Worth Park 13 "Carnations Glacier and Mrs. S. J. Brooks ... 13 Chrysanthemum audit, a 14 Cucumber spot disease 13 Dahlia, TJie Mikado ... 13 Ephedra, the genus ... 13 Events in 1905 8 Eucharis culture ... 13 Fog, effects of, on plants at Kew 12 Fossil plants 12 Oardeners, the training 14 of young 14 Hooker, Sir Joseph Dalton 8 [Foreign correspond- ence— Kotes from Japan ... 10 Jasminum primuli- num U Kew, effect of recent fogs on plants at Lanrel-wreatb, the an- cient victor's Lilium Glehni Lily of the Valley, poi- sonous character of . Novelties in Orchids during 1904 Nursery notes- Vcitch. J., &. Sons, Chelsea Pear Passe Crassano ... Pentstemons, new va- rieties of Plants, new or note- worthy— / Acautlius Perringi ... Plants, vanishing , , Potato - judging from cooked tubers ... i Potato Up-to-Date Societies— Gardeners' Debating, Royal Horticultural . Solauum .iasminoides... South Africa, horticul- ture in Spirjea Billardi Slatices at Tcneriffc ... Trees and Shrubs— The handling of seed- lings Week's Work, the— Flower garden, the... Fruits under glass ... Hardy fruit garden... Kitchen garden, the. Orchid-liouses, the ... Plants under glass ... Wood ripening on north walls ILLUSTRATIONS. Asparagus Sprengeri in flower Bullock, A., portrait of Clarke, W. H.. portrait of DendraJjium triQorum (cymbidioides) Fyfe, W., portrait of ■Gardening by natives in the Transvaal Hooker, Sir Joseph Dalton, a portrait of (Supple- mentary Illustration) Jordan, F., portrait of Lilium Glehni Miller. W. A., portrait of Pear, Passe Crassane South African native gardeners, a group of Young, W. II., portrait of NOVELTIES OF 1904. OKCHIDS. TTOME-KAISED hybrids steadily gain -l-J- ground over newly-introduced species, and the best evidence of their popularity is to be found in the fact that the majority of awards made by the Orchid Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society have during the past year been given to such hybrids. The production of such a wealth of floral beauty as that already evolved by the hj'bridist has been an eminently good work, whereby not only has each section of Orchids dealt with been recruited by flowers having great variety of form and colour, but, by intercrossing, the duration of the flower- ing season, and especially that of autumn and winter, has been prolonged. From the Eight Honourable Lord Eoth- SCHILD, Tring Park (gr., Mr. A. Dye), came two of the finest species of the year, viz., the wonderful Angrajcum infundibulare, which received a First-class Certificate (the first award made at the new Hall), and the beau- tiful Angrsecum Kothschildianum, which was given an Award of Merit. Fine hybrids from the same garden were Lailio-Cattleya ■X. Dominiana, L.-C. x Martineti, and Catt- leya x Patrocinii, all distinguished as Tring Park varieties. From his very extensive botanical collec- tion the Hon. Walter Rothschild received Botanical Certificates for Restrepia leopard- ina rosea, R. aspasii-ensium, ('ryptophoran- thus Lehmanni, Jlasdevallia Burbidgeana, Saccolabium gracile. and others. Captain G. L. Holford, Westonbirt, Tet- bury (gr., Mr. Alexander), whose collection is one of the best cultivated, received awards for Cypripedium x aureum (Ddippe, a very massive flower; C. x triumphans niagni. ficum and C. x Niobe Westonbirt variety, a model flower, finely coloured, and which was awarded a First-class Certificate. Also the graceful Cymbidium X Ballianum, the bright rose-coloured Lselio-Cattleya x Dig- byano - Mossia-^ Westonbirt variety ; and Cattleya x Iris Westonbirt variety. NoRMAK C. CooKSON, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam (gr., Mr. H. J. Chapman), great in fine spotted Odontoglossums, has shown many promisini; varieties of that class, but nothing approaching the beauty of his O. crispum Cooksonire. The awards fell to Odontoglossum crispum Clive, O. c. Harold, O. c. Sibyl, 0. c. Kinlesideanum, and O. c. xanthotes Cooksonia^, grand additions to blotched-flowered class ; O. x ardentissimum CooksoniiB, heavily marked with claret- purple ; and O. x Andersonianum Craw- shayanum. Mr. Cookson also received awards for Cypripedium x W. R. Lee Oak- wood variety, and C. x Dom Carlos, a very distinct hybrid between C. Godefroya» leuco- chilum and C. Lawrenceanum. Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking (gr., Jfr. Hopkins), whose collection contains many remarkable varieties, and who has the most complete collection of hybrids in which Cypripedium Fairieanum has been used directly or indirectly, in the country, is credited with awards for Cypripedium x Wellesleyanum (bellatulum album x con- color), the finest of the class, with the yellow colour and purple spotting of C. concolor; C. X King Edward VIL, a very stately C. Rothschildianum and nitens magnificum cross; Lrelia anceps Schrodera> var. Theo- dora, Ljelio-Cattleya x bletchleyensis Mrs. Francis Wellesley, and Cattleya labiata Mrs. Francis Wellesley, both charming, delicately- tinted flowers. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart, (gr., Mr. W. H. White), .has, as usual, flowered a number of interesting novelties in species and hybrids during the past year. Three of the most remarkable of the species were the singular leafless trailer with showy yellow and purple flowers, Vanilla Humbloti ; the elegant little (xomesa Binoti, and the handsome purplish - crimson Sobralia Ruckeri, for which a First-class Certificate was awarded, May 17. One of the best of the hybrids was Cypripedium x Sanderiano- selligerum, shown at the last meeting of the year. H. T. Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill (gr., Mr. Thurgood), the owner of some of the best and most valuable spotted Odonto- glossums, adds to his already long list of honours in that class with Odontoglossum crispum Prebendary Bevan, a fine purple- spotted flower; 0. c. xanthotes Snow (^ueen, pure white with a few orange-eoloured spots ; and 0. cirrosum Pittianum, a very large form'which secured a First-class Certificate. Also Cattleya Warscewiczii Rosslyn variety, of one shade of rose-pink. G. F. Moore, Esq., Bourton-on-the- Water (gr., Mr. Page), the exhibitor of the record group for which a Gold Medal and tlio Lindley Medal was given, secured awards for Cypri- pedium x aureum virginale, C. x Graceaj " W. H. Page," C. X Thompsoni, C. x Miss Blanche Moore, and C. insigne sylhetense giganteum, all fine flowers ; also Cattleya x Portia Chard war variety and Laslio-Cattleya X Pallas magnifica. De B. Crawsuay, Esq., Rosefield, Seven- oaks (gr. Mr. Stables), the Odontoglossum specialist, has for his best of 1904, Odonto- glossum X waltoniense rosefieldiense, a pale-yellow flower with some brown blotches ; O. crispum Venus, a noble variety of the typical class, and 0. crispum Theo- dora, finely blotched with red - purple. Better than any of these however is the beautiful 0. crispum De Barri, shown March 9, but kept in reserve until perfected. J. Wilson' Potter, Esq., Croydon (gr. Mr. W. H. Young), scored with the finely spotted Odontoglossum crispum Rosendale and O. Uro-Skinneri splendens. Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. Young), among other good things, produced La^lio-Cattleya x Constance Wigan, a pi'etty bright yellow flower, with reddish- rose markings on the lip. Andotheramateurs have contributed to the garden gains of the year. F. W. Moore, Esq., the Curator of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin, has done much to sustain the interest in botanical Orchids at the Royal Horticultural Society. At the first meeting he was awarded four Botanical Certificates, and others were obtained at subsequent meetings, some of the most interesting subjects, such as Bulbophyllum Hamelini and J!. Weddelli being illustrated in the (lardenera Chronicle, and references will be found in the appended list of plants illustrated. NURSERY'MEN. Messrs. S.^nder & Sons, of St. Albans and Bruges, have been highly successful, and have received Awards for some of the best Orchids of the past year. Their magnificent Cypripedium x Fred K. Sander is considered the best C. bellatulum cross yet raised, and their C. X Helen IL var. Fascinator and the other forms of the same batch are fine acquisitions. Other remarkable and showy hybrids credited to be firm are Ladio- Cattleya x Hy. Greenwood var. Imperator, a finely-coloured and very large flower ; L.-C. X Luminosa " The Mikado," L.-C. x Mme. M. Fournier var. W. H. Young, L.-C. x Mar- tineti Sunrise, L.-C. x eximia Sandera^, L.-C. X crispo-lirosa, all remarkably fine; Catt- leya X G. W. fjaw-Schofield, C. x triumphans, the pretty white C. labiata " Miss Kate Brazier," CyP'ipediii™ callosum Sanders " Hye's variety," a better flower than the old form, and with more white in the petals, and Zygopetalum x Gottianum, one of the darkest in colour. During the past year Messrs. Sander ddity, Dec. 24, p. 414. CynorcHs purpurascens, Aprd 9. p. 227. Dendrobiums, hybrid. March 20, p. 197. Dendrobium x melano^liscus gloriosum, April 2, p. 219. Dendrobium nobile virginale, June 4, p. 357. Dendrobium x Thwaitesise "Veitch's Viariety, April 23. p. 274. Dendrobium "Williamsoni, May 28, p. 341. Dendrobium bellatulum, August 13, p. 114. Epidendrum elegans, .lanuary 30, p. 66. Hfemaria Dawsoniana, .fune 18, p. 3S7. Lselia purpurata Queen Alexandra, June 4. p. 363. Laelio-Cattleya x bletcliley«nsis Euby King, Supp.. February 6. Odontoglossum crispum de Barri. March 26' p. 196. Odontoglossum crispum Boltoni, July 16, p. 34. Odontoglossum x ardentissimum Cooksonje, April 23, p. 260. Odontoglossum Pescatorei Kathleen, April 9, p. 228. Odontoglossum Pescatorei, five varieties, February 27, p. 131. Odontoglossum, group of spotted, April 23, p. 261. Odontoglossum x Vuylstekei vivicans, Jan. 2, p. 3. Odontoglossum x waltojiiense rosefieldiense. May 21. p. .331. Odontoglossum nebulosum Gurney 'Wilson, June 4, p. 356. Odontioda x Vuylstekeoe, June 4, p. 360. (To be C07itinuc(i.i NEW OR NOTEWORTHY PLANTS. ACANTHUS PEREINGI, Skhe. I DiSGOVERED this beautiful new species in 1903 in the Cappadocian Anti-taurus, and have so far propagated it as to be now able to place it on the market. It grows on cliffs, in dry, chalky loam, and in barren places at a height of from 5,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level. The winter climate is extremely cold, the snow often lying from three to four months. The handsome spike of flowers makes its appearance about the end of June. In England the plant should be grown upon rockeries where it can have the necessary dry situation. The roots are creeping and form rhizomes. Leaves sessile, from 5 to 6 inches long, lancet - like, tapering, often deeply toothed and notched, and set with spines. Stem clothed with short hairs. The plant is from 1 to 1| foot high, and is almost entirely covered with large, handsome, decussate, rosy-red flomers. The bracts are large, ovate, pointed, and sharply indented. They are provided with spines. The bracteola' are narrow and lanceo- late. The upper sepal is entire, broadly ovate, nearly as long as the corolla ; the lower one is also broad but smaller, and bi-partite above. The inner sepals are very nan-ow and lanceolate. The corolla is bright rose-coloured, with three lobes. The bracts and sepals are silvery-green streaked with rose-colour. TJie plant is closely allied to Acanthus Diosoonidis, according to Boissier's description. The differences are that the leaves of Acanthus Perring) a,re grey-green instead of bright green. The stem is very short and the leaves sessile. The stem leaves are extremely broad and arranged in an oval, not a circular form. They are somewhat broader than the root-leav&. The bracts are broad aud ovate : the lower se^l is broad and not narrow or linear in shape. 'FT. Siehe,_Mersina, Turh:y~in-Asia. '■'' '■ :'■■■' 'i'" .' . " P T A T S . Up-to Date. — The reputation of this weU- known variety has lately been assailed in some quarters, but with us we find it still one of the most desirable varieties, for out. of nine distinct kinds grown under field culture this one has given most satisfaction as regards weight of crop, disease-resisting capa- bilities, and edible qualities when cooked. After all considerations, it is the soil that is the deter- mining factor with regard to flavour in a Potato*. In localities situated even a few miles apart, cue- often finds that a particular Potato that is giving: satisfaction in the one district is a failure in the- other district ; but, to condemn a variety as wortli- less and only fit for pigs, as one or two corre- spondents have recently done, is, to my mind, too- sweeping an assertion. I am forwarding half-a- dozen tubers ofUp-to-Date to be tested when boiled or baked. Not only are they of excellent quality now, but they will be equally good up to the month of May. J. Mayne, £icton Gardens, Devonshire, December. [Excellent. Ed. 3 Quality of Cooked Potatos. The interesting cooking tests to which Potatos were recently subjected by Messrs. Dobbie & Co. at Marks Tey, Essex, and which showed the Scotch tubers generally to be inferior in quality to those from Lincoln and Essex, open xip som& interesting themes for enquiry, first, as to- whether tubers of varieties that ripen later do- really become drier and of better qiiality when cooked two or three months after lifting than they are at the time of lifting. As to this matter we have no assured tests by which to guide us. Generally it is held that such ia the case, and it is much to be hoped that the Scotch varieties subjected to the cooking test on the 13th ult. be again tried witb Essex tubers six weeks later. Seeing that w& need Scotch tubers for consumption from January onward, to defer such a further test till the spring is certainly undesirable. As Mr. C'uthbertson is as deeply interested! in Scotch tubers as in those grown in Essex, the fullest reliance may be placed in his trials. But a further subject for enquiry may be found its the connection, if any, between the comparatively greater sappiness of Scotch Potatos, as the Essex trial seems to have evidenced, and their undoubted greater strength and robustness as seed tubers when planted in the south. There seems to be- no fact in relation to Potatos that is more- assured than is the one that Scotch-raised tiibers give far better growth and crops south than South-of-England-raised tubers do. Do Potatos become more starchy prematurely down south than they do in the north, and is starchleas- ness more promotive of growth than is sappiness? Were that the case we in the south should fincil second-growth tubers, always more sappy op watery than first-growth tubers, to make much ^ the best seed. Why Scotch-grown tubers generally prodxice the best growth and crops southwards is so far an unsolved problem. A. D. Of the many exhaustive tests of Potatos re- cently made in various directions, the cooking tests conducted by Mr. Cuthbertson are probably- one of the most valuable series yet issued. Tooi often it seems to me, and more especially in recent years, has it been taken for granted that, given a heavy weight per acre and a large and often un'nandsome tuber, the necessary quality is- also present. Yet it is a curious thing to note ia connection with this most recent test, that no mention is ^lade of a variety which is admitted to be the finest quality Potato extant, and which is making a better price on the London, markets than any other variety, and this not on acciunt of any i . i ng . but because of the demand by that expert judge " the cook." I refer to Langworthy, which is *now' selling at" January 7, 1905.] THE GABDENEllS' CHRONICLE. €roin 20s. to 30s. per ton more than can be obtained for other ware. The following extract from the letter of a large grower in Scotland is ^Interesting : — " Notwithstanding the amazing <;heapness of Potatos, my • Laugworthy ' is rselling in London at this moment at 00s. per ton. I cannot understand why growers should potter ^way with gross bulky tubers when this fine Potato is still at its best." And those English .-growers who know something of this variety will (fully endorse this remark. Amongst other ^varieties one notices that the record of " Factor " iis uniformly good, and maintains its reputation ;as an excellent all-round Potato. The demand "for Scotch seed of this (Langworthy) and Chas. Fidler, which also maintains a good place in this <;est, is increasingly great, and points to a ten- ■dency on the part of growers to secure top returns -by having the best. Many samples of Laugworthy tfrom the district from which my Scotch cargoes ;are drawn (Dunbar) are, as a matter of fact, anaking £5 per ton and over at the present time •on the London markets. R. IV. Green, Wisbech, /Jecemher 2!.i. BOOK NOTICE. » H-ANDSCAPE Gardening. By Samuel Palsons, Junr. (London: C. P. Putnam's Sons.) The intention of this book (written primarily tfor the denizens of the United States) is " to stimulate interest in an inexpensive style of landscape gardening by enunciating a few funda- ■anental principles, and giving an account of some well-laid-out grounds." The laying out of the ~'lawn," or, as we should say, the garden, and the ■oonstruction of roads and paths, form the subjects ^•of the earlier chapters. Roads and paths are "Considered as necessary evils, and really the Q-oads leading to the house concern the architect .and the engineer as much as the gardener ; the smaller by-ways, however, come strictly within 4he province of the gardener, who should know how to dispose them to the best advantage, and specially how to avoid their unnecessary multi- iplication and frivolous and worrying turns and twists. The appropriate trees and •shrubs then come under review, the author -of course studying the "environment" as it is ananifested in the northern and eastern United ■States. In the Morningside Park, New York, for .instance, awhole hillside is systematically planted, on account of their rich colour in autumn, with White Dogwood, Cornus florida, Andromeda ar- foorea,Liqnidambar, Scarlet Maple, Rhus Osbeckii, .&C. At other points groups of si)ring-flowering or of summer-blooming trees are arranged so that the beauties belonging to each season are brought into prominence. The author further considers the question of anassing trees and shrubs in some situations, and in others of placing them apart wliere their dis- ■tinctive features may be seen unencumbered by -surrounding trees. The remarks on pruning are eminently judi- "Cious, and the directions for the treatment of slopes, the formation of rockwork, the proper vise of herbaceous plants ai'e replete with hints which ■the gardener may profitably consider. The -selection of trees and shrubs for j-)articirlar ^purposes is both extensive and appropriate. It indicates how large a choice is offered to the -connoisseur and at the same time shows the re- stricted area from which the ordinary gardener gets his material. The remarks on bedding-out jplants and their proper use are sensible and -devoid of exaggeration, and the details, relating Jilike to small surburban gardens, town squares, and large parks, may be read with great profit. The book is well printed, has a good index, and us copiously illustiated. Some of the illustrations are new, but others -are old friends which have ■ jJone duty in othir publications. Wo may strongly commend the book to the notice of our lueaders. ,,,,., L ILIUM GLEHNL* The illustration of Lilium Glehni at fig. 1 has been prepared from a plant which I found gi'ow- ing on the railway eiul.:mkment near Asahigawa, in the centre of Hokkaido (Tezo), on July 17, 190-1. In a paper by Dr. K. Miyabe and the Rev. John Batchelor in the Transactions of the Asiatic Society of Japan, vol. xxi., p. 2ol, this plant is said to be known to the Ainos as " Umbairo," and to be used extensively for food. The bulbs are washed, pounded in a mortar, and the finer part of the rarely cultivated in Japan. These were the only Lilies 1 saw in the island of Hokkaido, though L. dahuricum is also common on sandy beaches and river banks in some localities. Lilies do not seem to be by any means so common or generally distributed in Japan as I had supposed. The only species I saw growing wild were L. auratum, L. tigrinum, and L. cordi- folium, of which L. Glehni appears to me to be hardly more than a northern variety, and a slender form of tigriniim, which I take to be L. Maximowiczii. The bulbs of tigrinum are FlO. 1. — LILIUJI GLEHNI, FROM YEZO. •^glossum-house, 53° by day, and 48° by night. These are tempe- ratures to be promoted solely by fire-heat, and a considerable rise may be allowed during the day- time when arising from solar-heat. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By W. A. Mn.LEK, Gardener to the Countess Bective, Underley Hall, Westmoreland. Improvements. — This is a suitable time of the year to make altera- tionsand improvements. The flower gardenerwill have his notes of suc- cesses and failures ob- tained last summer to refresh his memory and aidhim in hisendeavour to secure improvement. In all departments this is most likely to re- sult from simplicity of arrangement, and an endeavour to copy Nature in her most pleasing features. Fencing. — See that the fence enclosing the flower garden is proof against vermin. If galvanised- wire-netfing is used, and requires replacing with new, it may be well to know that instead of bury- 'ing it 9 inches in the usual way it is quite as satisfactory to bend at right angles about three- quarters of a iofit. and fasten level with the ground, with wooden pegs a yard or so apart. The wire soon embeds itself in th,e grass, and does not rust' fdr many yeWs. Shrubherie's. — Press fbrwkrd With tm' gi-ubbing and blasting of roots, trenching, wheeling, and all similar operations in readiness for the planting season. Shrubs for winter effect are now at their best, and when plaiit._-d in the best manner are very satisfactory. On a sunny bank a group of Eubus biflorus (the 'Whitewashed Bramble) is very eft'ectiveassociated with Piceapungensglauca, Cryptomeria elegans, Cotoneaster frigida (well berried), and Cornus sanguinea, with Bamboos for a background. Finns sylvestris aurea is the brightest of the golden-coloured shrubs. Golden Hollies, Taxus fastigiata aurea, T. baccata aurea, Cupressus Lawsoniana 8mithi, Eetinospora plu- mosa aurea, and Diplopappus chrysophyllus (Cassinia fulvida) follow in the order named. Transplanting Shrubs. — When regulating shrub- beries there are always some specimens worth moving, and good-sized trees with proportionate balls can be easily transplanted with every prospect of success by using a mason's bogie in lieu of a transplanting machine. Prepare the ball, say 3 feet in diameter, then have four stout boards a little longer than the width of the bogie, and secure these well imderneath the ball at front, back, and sides by wooden blocks and bricks at each corner, bearing in mind the width of bogie. Keep the tree perpendicular, raise each corner alternately, and undermine the ball. Now that the boards have got the weight, prepare an inclined path, and run the bogie miderneath ; reduce the pillars till the bogie has its load, then with levers and a steady pull the tree will be raised out of the hole. Having decided on a position in which to replant the tree, make a hole and path, run the bogie down, block up the boards to relieve the bogie, then lower the ball of theroots to the proper level, ram good soil underneath, take away blocks and boards, use friable soil amongst the roots, and the tree will be firmly and expeditiously planted. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By \V. n. CLAitKE, Gardener to Sir William Plowdes, Aston Rowant, Oxon. Even in the winter months there is much work to occupy the attention of the grower of hardy frnits, such as tree planting, ma- nuring, prun- ing, staking, nailing, train- ing, and the destruction of lichen and in- sect pests by spraying, &c. Each of these operations will be given attention in this column in due course. Planting Fruit-trees. — This is one of the most important items in successful fruit cultivation. Where it has been delayed in some localities owing to frost and snow, the work should be pro- ceeded wit'n as expeditiously as possible immedi- ately the soil is found to be in such a condition that it can be satisfactorily worked. A great many failures in fruit growing are the result of stunted growth, canker, Ac, that follow " slip- shod " planting. It will pay well to do this work thoroughly and skilfully. The natural conditions of the site and soil are the first considerations. In some low-lying gardens where there are no practical means of draining, effective measures should be taken to prevent the roots growing down into a cold and wet subsoil. A quantity of bi'oken bricks, lime-rubble, slates, or concrete placed at the bottom of not too deep a hole, and well rammed together, will answer this pui'pose. Where the subsoil consists of chalk, the foregoing remarks are also essential, otherwise if the roots are allowed to descend into the chalk a sickly- looking tree will result, and it will need to be lifted and replanted. IJefore proceeding to plant the tree trim ftU d^magetl,, roots, , by .making .an upward cut, and from the apeJ^ of eaifh roc^t neyv , roots will grow. If the soil at tho time of plant- ing is in a rather wet condition, a quantity of old potting soil and burnt refuse should be worked well amongst the root- fibres, the main roots being laid out at right angles from the tree and covered at varying depths, making the whole firm by means of treading with the foot, and filling up- -with the staple soil, leaving it rough and un- trodden on the surface. In all cases it is of the utmost importance to secure the trees to a stake... and in the case of wall-trees to so fasten them that they cannot be blown about. It is best to plant to the stake, and there is then no risk of injuring the roots by driving the stake in after planting. There is sure to be a natural settlement of the soil, and the trees should not be secured finally until this has taken place. Do not bury the roots more deeply than they were when growing in the nursery, the mark of which will be seen on the stem of the trees. Where a, plantation of cordon Apple-trees on Paradise- stocks is contemplated for supplying large fruits for exhibition purposes, they may be advan- tageously planted on slightly raised mounds,. aUowing a space of 4 feet between the rows, the intervening space to be heavily mulched with manure in the summer time. Instead of staking each tree, two wires strained to supports at either end is all that is necessary for making the trees- seeure. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By A. Bullock. Gardener to E. J. Wythes, Esq., Copped Hall, EppiDg, Essex. Necessity for Light. — At this time of the year, when fog and diiU sunless weather are so frequent, too much import- ance cannot be attached to the. admission of all the light obtain- able tor plants- whether grown, fi>r their foliage- ' IV for fiowers. This can only be done by keeping the glass and woodwork of the houses tho- roughly clean, and sweet. Stove containing fine Foliage Plants. — Maintain- by fire-heat a temperature of 65° by night with a rise of 5° by day, but allow the temperature to fall a little lower in very severe weather in order to avoid heating the pipes excessively. Keep plenty of moisture in the atmosphere by damping the floors and the surfaces between the pots, ic, but use the syringe sparingly over the plants- during very dull weather. Little or no advantage is gained by commencing to i^ropagate plants too- early in the season, but where specimen Codiaiums- (Crotons) are required propagation may now be proceeded with, selecting only strong healthy plants for this purpose. The method known, as '■ ringing " is the best. Care should be taken in this operation not to cut deeper than the rind in taking out the ring of bark, also in tying the moss round, for the wood being very brittle it is easily broken and the advantage this- method should possess is then lost. Stoves jvith Flowering Plants. — At this season the utmost care is required in the watering of plants particularly of those that reqjiire a warun temperature to develop their flowers perfectly. Keep a moderately dry atmosphere and a tem- perature of (10° by night. Only under the most favourable conditions should air be admitted to the house, and only sulBcient then to- allow the damp air to escape. Begonia Winter Cheer, B. Ensign, B. Mrs. John Heal .and others of this type having flowered, steps should be taken to ensure them a thorough rest, (jradually withhold water from the roots as they show signs of resting, but on no account allow them t«- become dust-dry, and for this reason they should alivays be under, the eye of the man in .charge. They must not be placed where the temperature- falls below 55°. THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 7, 1005. APPOINTMENTS for JANUARY. MONDAY, Jan. FRIDAY, Jan. SATURDAY, Jan, MONDAY, Jan, WEDNESDAY, Jan THURSDAY, Jan. 19 TUESDAY, Jan. 24 FRIDAY. Jan. 27 (,( United Hort. Ben. and Prov. ■ 1 Soc. Com. Meet. ,r. S British Gard. Assoc. Meeting at \ Swansea. iAnu. Dinner Soc. Franp* 14 ■ d'Hort. d'Londres, Caf6 Royal' ( lj.30 P.M. British Gard. Assoc. Meeting at Cardiff. Birmiagham andMid. Counties Gard. Mut. Imp. Assoc. Ann. Meeting. Brixton and District Hort. Soc. Ann. Meeting. Linnean Soc. Meet. Gard. Roy. Ben. Inst. Ann. Meet, and Elect, of Pensioners at Covent Garden Hotel, at 3 p.m. ; Ann. Friendly Supper at 6 p.m. Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns. Meet. Nat. Rose Soc. Com. Meet. ■Roy. Bot. Soc. Meet. "1 BALES FOR THE WEEK. MONDAY, January «— Hardy Border Plants, Koses, Azaleas, American Plants, &C., at 67 and t>8, Cheapside, B.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12 o'clock. WEDNESDAY, jANrAEY II— Continental Plants, 2,400 Roses, Fruit Trees, ttc, at 67 & 63, Cbeapside, E.G., at 12 o'clock. Enormous consignment of 3,800 cases of Japanese Liliums, including 147,640 L. auratum, 147,480 L. sp. album and rubrum. 100,000 Palm Seeds, .50,000 Tuberoses, and a great variety of other Bulbs, at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G., at 3 o'clock 14 Greenhouses, Piping, Boilers, and Stock, at the Hollisfleld Nur- sery, Kirs Lane, Wiuchmore Hill, by order of Mr. C. E. Town, at 12 o'clock. By Protheroe & Morris. FRIDAY, January 13— Rhododendrons, North American Plants, Gladioli. Spiraeas, &c., at .67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G., at 12 o'clock; Imported and Established Orchids, at 67 & 68 Cheapside, E.C., at 12.."S0 o'clock; by Protheroe tt Morris. JV)r further particulars &ee our Advertisetiient columns.) Atebage TEBrpERATUHE for the ensuing week, deduced from observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick -36-4". Actual TEMPEHATtmES ;— London.— JlVrf/^csrffiV, January 4 (6 P.M.): Max. 50'; Min. 46'. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London. — Timrsdat/, .Tan. 5 (10 A.M.) : Bar., 2i) .s : Temp., 4!)'. Much rain. PBOTINCES. — ]Vt:d}irsdav, .Jan. 4 (6 P.M.); Max. 49-, West Coast of England ; Min. 45", East Coast of Scotland. _, , ^ The retirement of Sir Joseph oir Joseph -.^ ,. ,, t., ... Hooker from the Editor- ship of the Botanical Maija- sine affords ug an opportunity of pre- senting to our readers a portrait of this distinguished botanist. The history of the Magazine was written in our columns by Mr. Hemsley,* so that it is not necessary to enter into details concerning it. It must suffice to recall that it was established in 1787, and was edited by Dr. (afterwards Sir William) Hooker from the year 1827 to 1865. For some years Ijefore he came to Kew the Magazine was edited by Dr. Hooker 3,i Glasgow. At that time his personal in- fluence ensured the introduction to the botanic garden of that university of nu- merous rare and interesting plants which were figured and described by the Professor. On his removal to Kew in 1S41, Sir William Hooker continued the editorship till hisdeath in 1865, when he was succeeded liy his son, :Sir Joseph Hooker. Fora continuous period, therefore, of seventy-seven years botanists and gardeners have lieen indebted for the illustration and exact description of rare or interesting plants to father and son. Tho boon that has thus been conferred on l)ot- .anists and gardeners is beyond computa- tion, and is certainly not the least of the innumerable services that have been ren- • See Onrdeners' Chronicle, vol. i. (1887). beginning at S>. 3l5 ; vol. xix. (1896), p. 389 ; vol. XX. (1896), p. 651 ; and vol. xxxi. (1902), p. 289. dered to science and horticulture by 8ir William and by sir Joseph Hooker. The very characteristic illustration that we give as a Supplement to this issue was taken from the portrait by Herkomer in the possession of the Linnean Society. Another portrait hangs on the walls of the Koyal Society. The New Year. It i^ much easier to write of what is past than of what is to come. In the one case we have a solid basis of fact; in the other we have in some measure to rely on the un- stable foundation of the imagination. Nevertheless tlie past in many ways governs the future, and enables us to anticipate coming events. Everything points to the success of the Horticultural Hall. All the Committees were enabled to meet in the new rooms on Tuesday last, and the Lindley Library is in process of rearrangement. The commodiousness and bright appearance of the exhibition hall command universal approbation, and the show, though small, was excellent in detail, and gave full promise of successful fortnightly meetings for the present year. Let us hope that in the near future the cost of the new building, which is so useful to the Fellows, will be defrayed, and that the Trustees of the Lindley Library may be ailorded an income a little less beggarly in amount than that which is at present available. In the meantime we record with great gratification the fact that Baron Sir Henry Schroeder, in addition to his former munificence, has undertaken to defray the costs incident to the removal and reinstatement of the Library. The Library, which has had a ehecjuered career since it was purchased by the committee of the great International Horticultural Exhibition and Botanical Congress of iHdCt, will now be housed and arranged in a manner consistt'iit with its value and importance. It occupies the topmost floor of one wing of the new building, and is fitted up with oaken shelves, projecting cases, tal)les and other require- ments, so that at last there is more than a prospect that the Society will be in a position to offer to the Follows facilities for study and research far greater than it has pre- viously been able to do. One of the most important horticultural events of the present year will in all proba- liility be that of the Koyal Caledonian Horticultural Society, which will hold a great International Horticultural Exhibition in Edinburgh from September 13 to l-'j. On this occasion we may expect to see a grand collection of fruit, as the prizes offered will doulitless ensure a lirisk compe- tition. We are pleased to note that an attempt is to be made to render these exhi- bitions more generally useful to horticul- ture by encouraging exhibits calculated to promote tho advance of scientific horticul- ture. Thus we see that exhiliits are re- quested illustrative of any new or improved method of cultivation, or any new applica- tion of scientific facts to practical purposes. This opens up a very large field, including as it does the results of hybridisation and cross-breeding. Too much must not be expected from this section in the first instance, but as a means of infusing variety into the stereotyped arrangements of an ordinary flower-show it should be welcomed quite independently of its prospective benefits to practical liortieulture. The Royal Horticultural Society will hold its usual exhibitions in the Temple Gardens and at Holland House, also a great show of British-grown fruit, and another of Colonial- grown fruits, in addition to the ordinary fortnightly meetings. The Society's exami- nations in horticulture will be held as usual, and it is expected that the new gardens at Wisley will be so far modified as to afford facilities for the resumption of the old Chiswick trials. The National Rose Society, the National Chrysanthemum Society (whose dates of ex- hibitions at the Crystal Palace are not yet fixed), the Potato Society, the Sweet Pea Society, and all of the other special so- cieties, will continue to hold exhibitions; and the provincial horticultural societies have already announced that exhiliitions will be held at Shrewsbury, York, New- castle, Manchester, Wolverhampton, Hanley, and other places. It is satisfactory to know that a larger number of the special Societies than here- tofore will hold their exhibitions in con- junction with meetings of the Royal Horti- cultural Society. The British Gardeners' Association has arranged to hold meetings in various parts of the country with the view of enlightening local gardeners as to its aims and purposes. It is hoped that there will be a large acces- sion of members now the New Year has dawned. The Almanac which we issue with the present number shows how numerous are the fixtures for the present year. We can- not make it complete, for several of the societies have not yet fixed their dates of meeting, and some of the dates are liable to revision. Nevertheless we trust it will be found serviceable as a reminder to our readers, and will act as an incitement to them in future to keep us posted in local events. Upon the whole the year 1905 promises to be one of satisfactory activity, though It is not likely to be distinguished by such important events as marked the Centenary of the Royal Horticultural Society last year. "The Journal of the Kew Guild."— As an excellent illustration of what may be effected by co-operation and good fellowship we may call attention to the Kew (^xuild, an association of those who are or have been connected with Kew at some portion of their career. The annual Journal, which contains letters from old Kewites in every part of the world, is most interesting even to those who have not been so fortunate as to have passed through Kew. The present number, in addition to business details, contains an account of the annual dinner, presided over by Mr. Watson, a function that becomes annually of increasing importance. The Himalayan-house is the subject of a notice, together with an ex- cellent illustration of the rock-pool constructed in it. The letters from old Kewites in various parts of the world, to which we have already alluded, are so interesting as to excite the envy of editors. We are pleased to see as the frontispiece to the present part a portrait of our valued friend and correspondent, Mr. N. E. Bkown, an acute and painstaking botanist, to whom we have very often been indebted for valuable assistance, and who has contributed numerous descriptions and illustrations of interesting plants to our columns. January 7, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. " The Botanical Magazine. "—The January ^number, which inaugurates a new series (the . fourth), now appears under the editorship of Sir William T. Thiselton-Dtek. Little alteration has been made in the appearance of the maga- zine, beyond a few changes in the type, the name of "Curtis" even being retained on the title- ,page as a survival. The plants figured are : — Cadalvena sxyectabilis, Fenzl., t. 7992. — A noble- ■flowered Ginger-wort from Tropical Africa. The ■Sowers are bright yellow. Mr. C. H. Weight :furnishes the technical details relating to it. The species flowered at Kew. Cotyledon ilegans, N. E. Brown, t. 7993. — A Mexican species described by Mr. N. E. Brown, and readily distinguished by its inflorescence, 'which bears two flowei's only. Kew. Phyllostachys nigra, Munro, t. 799i. — This ■-Bamboo is considered by Dr. Staff to be synony- mous with P. Henonis, P. Castillonis, and P. .boryana. It is a native of China and Japan. Swainsona Maccullochiana, F. Mueller, t. 7995. . — A handsome leguminous plant with purplish ^ea-like flowers in long racemes. It is a native •of N.W. Australia. Kew. Vanilla Bumbloiii,^ Keichb. f., t. 7996. — A very *jiandsome yellow-flowered species from the col- .lection of Sir Trevor Lawrence. It is a native of Madagascar, and was originally described in ■ our columns in 1885, vol. i., p. 726. "The Garden Magazine" is the title of a journal to be published by Doubledat, Page & 'Co., New York, on January 14, and to be devoted to all branches of gardening. It seems strange . that whilst trade journals have so large a circula- tion in the States and are so well conducted, yet there seems no public in America for a gar- -dening journal that is not exclusively commercial. 'The proprietors of the Garden Magazine are evi- dently intending to make a public, and we hope ithey will succeed. CATTLEYA LABIATA. — Mr. (afterwards Sir 'William) Hooker was the first to flower this •Orchid in 1818, at Halesworth, Suffolk, the plant Jiaving been received from its discoverer, Mr. -SWAINSON. Gaspard Bauhin'S Herbarium. — One of the works undertaken by Pteamus de Candolle was the investigation of the herbarium of ©ASPARD Bauhin. Gaspard Or Kaspar Bauhin ■was born at Basle in 1560, and died in the same • city in 1624. His herbarium has since 1802 been .in the possession of the University of Basle, and .it was in the year 1818 that Ptramus de Can- .DOLLE first devoted himself to its study, giving .-special attention to the synonyms of the plants .named in Bauhin's celebrated Pinax. The .revision was, unfortunately, never completed, but sufficient progress had been made to induce M. Casimir de Candolle to publish the results ■ of his grandfather's investigations on the . synonyms of the plants mentioned in the Pina.r, These are now issued in a convenient booklet, entitled L'Herbier de Gaspard Pauhin, which . comprises the textual reproduction of all the . determinations made by the elder De Candolle ■ in his .oopy of the Pinax. Appropriate prefixes and a portrait of Ptramus de Candolle .accompany the volume. " A GARDENER'S YEAR." — We have on more than one occasion called attention to the service- ■ able nature of Mr. Rider Haggard's notes in the pages of the Queen on gardening, and no w learn that "the notes are to be issued in book form under the ■■title, A Oardener's Tear, with twenty-six illustra- iitions. This work is not a text-book, but a record &ept throughout the year of the various opera- tions carried on in a Norfolk garden of moderate size, in which a good many varieties of fruit-trees, flowers— including Orchids— and vegetables are grown. It also treats incidentally of matters kindred to their cultivation. The author hopes that it may please tho.se readers to whom such things are of interest, and at the same time convey a certain amount of useful information which may help towards the establishmant of a successful garden. The book is to be published by Messrs. Longmans & Co. Saharanpur Botanic Garden. — This garden, with which are associated the names of Falconer, Eotle, and more recently of Duthie and others, is now under the management of Mr. Leake. Too Much Potato ! — At the recent "cook- ing test," the judges were called on to taste and deliver judgment on no fewer than sixty-seven samples. How did they do it ? Sixty-seven different pots were made use of for cooking the tubers. Where did these pots come from ? Who cleaned them after the feast ? Some of the sam- ples of each variety came from Essex, some from Lincolnshire, and some from Scotland, and it was remarked that the flavour of those grown in Essex was superior to that of those grown in Scotland. Among those noted as excellent were Up-to-Date, The Crofter, Dalmeny Hero, Charles Fidler, Duchess of Cornwall, Sim Gray, Highlander, Twentietli Century, and Bobbie's Favourite. A Social Gathering in the North. — A large attendance of employes and friends of Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Eothesay, met in the Public I Hall, Rothesay, on Friday, December 23. Councillor Fife presided, and was supported by his partner. Treasurer Buenie. Among others present was Mr. James Dobbie, founder of the flrm. The hall was beautifully decorated with greenery and cut flowers, the catering being in the hands of Mrs. Johnston, Victoria Restaurant. The evening's entertainment included singing and dancing. "WiLLiNG's Press Guide."— This publica- tion is always welcome, and the present, thirty- second, annual issue seems even fuller of informa- tion than were its predecessors. It contains, as most readers know, a list, with addresses, of all the periodical literature of Great Britain, tables arranging these publications according to their subject matter, and other particulars concerning them. Appended are lists of the principal Colonial and foreign journals, and a variety of general information. trilling's Press Guide is obtainable from 125, Strand, W.C., and from 162, Piccadilly, W. Vanishing Plants.— The Gardeners' Chronicle for December 17 contains an interesting letter from Dr. Perez, of Tenerifi'e, relating to Sfcatice arborescens, Broussonet. It is much to be regretted that the number of species dying out from their original habitat is increasing. Dr. Perez speaks of a species peculiar to Tene- riffe which, he tells us, is all but extinct owing to unknown causes, but found a refuge in two small islands, where it is likely to be extirpated by the goats. There would be less cause for regret if this curious and characteristic species were really, as the Index Kewensis states, identical with S. fruticans, Webb, which may, it seems, still be found near Bueno Vista, Teneritt'e. But if Boissier's monograph (Prodomus, De Candolle, vol. xiii., p. 636) is to be believed these two species, though allied, ditfer first in their size (the leaves are three times smaller), which I am aware is not a reliable botanical charac- teristic, then in the stem, which has the branches unprovided with wings ; in the bracts, which are hairy within and with less spreading tips, and so on. The species being then distinct, and Teneritfe and the Canaries being classic ground for Statices of the nobilis group, which seems to be of ancient creation, it is important to try to preserve these floral trea- sures in their habitats. Dr. Pekez tells me that he cultivates the Teneriffe Statice ; will he let me suggest a proposal which the Association for the Protection of Alpine Plants seeks to encourage in Switzerland, that of the creation in situ of an enclosure or sanctuary well fenced from the attacks of goats and rabbits. The spot should offer as nearly as possible the conditions of the plant's home, and the barriers must be strong. This little garden or enclosure must be protected by some local political or scientific authority, and the natural propagation of the species must be as sisted by every means known to horticulture. Dr. Perez, who still possesses some specimens of this vanisiiing type, could perhaps plant some of them in some such position, and thus contribute to the preservation of an interesting species that would otherwise become extinct. To those who consider me as holding Utopian views, I would recall two facts recorded in the Gardeners' Chronicle. Psiadia rotundifolia. Hook., once abundant in St. Helena, is now only represented by a single specimen, which was figured February 11, 1888, and a regret expressed that it was the last of its race. It is interesting as being the only shrubby Com- posite in that island which has survived to this time. On the other hand, Mr. A. D. Webster, in British Orchids, pp. 41 — 14, speaks of the distri- bution in Ireland of Spiranthes Romanzoviana, Cham., whose only European habitat is on the coast of Bantry Bay, near Castletown, in the South of Ireland. In 1844 Babington foretold the approaching disappearance of this plant, which is interesting as being the only Orchid known which forms the flower-buds tor the next year before the fall of the current year's leaves, suggesting to this botanist that it formed bulbils in the axils of its leaves as does Liliumbulbif erum. The plant has been so sought by collectors and uprooted by natives, that in 1887 Mr. Webster wrote in the Bulletin de I'Association pour la Protection des Plantes (1888, p. 24), that it might be considered to have disappeared, with the exception of some cultivated specimens at Kew and in Dublin. There is, it is true, a Eomanzoifia, clocely allied to it, which the Index Kewensis considers to be identical, and which is found in North America. Bentham, and after him Lindlet, considered the two to be distinct. Henry Correvon, Chene-Bourg, Geneva. SOFT-EOT OF CALLA. Since the short note on p. 410, a correspondent (p. 466) has intimated that the same disease was observed in this country four or five years ago. It seems to have been first noticed in the United States about five or six years ago, but attention has been specially directed to it by a report issued by the Department of Agriculture* during 1904. Probably the same disease was known to a limited extent in New Jersey in 1893. The Callas are found rotting oft at or just below the surface of the ground, the decay sometimes extending down into the corm, sometimes upwards into the leaves, and frequently in both directions. Occa- sionally the disease seemed to start in the edge of the leaf-stalk, in the flower-stalk, or in some under- ground part of the corm, though as a rule it started at the top of the corm, j ust above but near the sur- face of the ground. The disease was worse and spread most rapidly in houses where the Callas were grown in solid beds. When a diseased corm was cut open, it was found that there was a distinct line between tha • Bulletin No. HO, A Sofl-Rot of Hie Cnlla lAly. By Dr. C. O. Townsend, June .10, 1904. 10 THE GARDEXER8' CHRONICLE. [January 7. 1905. liealtliy and diseased portions of the corm. The lieilthy portion was firm and nearly white ; the diseased part had a decidedly brown colour, and was soft and watery. When the disease extends upwards into the leaves, it is the edo^e of the petiole that first becomes involved, the affected part becoming slimy without at once losing its green colour. As the disease progresses towards the centre of the petiole, the edges of the leaf become pale, then brown. Pale spots, turning brown, then appear in other parts of the leaf- blade, and finally the whole leaf becomes brown and dead. Frequently the disease develops so rapidly that the leaf rots off at the base and falls over before it has time to lose its green colour. When the disease attacks the flower-stalk the flower turns brown, and the stalk, without having decayed more than a fraction of an inch, eventu- ally falls over. When the disease works down- wards through the corm it reaches the roots, which become soft and slimy within, while the epidermis remains intact: eventually the slimy contents dry up. and only the dead skin of the i-oots i-emains. When the disease begins below t ^e surface of the ground, the lower portion of the corm frequently rots away, causing the plant to fall over, without any previous indication of disease. If the conditions for the development of the disease are unfavourable after the corms are affected, the softened spots will dry down and become darker in colour. In these spots the disease may remain dormant until the conditions are favourable for its fru-ther development. In this way the disease is carried over from season to season, and it may be transported. Examination has proved that the cause of disease is a minute organism of the Bacteria kind, which has been called Bacillus aroidea", which need not be described here, of which artificial cultures hive been made, and healthy plants have been inoculated therewith, produciag the disease as well as in some other plants. This organism occupies the intercellular space in the host and dissolves the layers that connect the cells, causing the affected tissue to break down into a soft slimy mass. It is able to attack a large number of raw vegetables, and is capable of producing soft -rot in many of our useful plants, such as Carrot, Potato, Turnip, Radisli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, and such green fruits as Tomatos, Eggplant, and Cucumber. Care must therefore be taken not to throw any decayed or partly decayed Callas, rr the soil from a bed in which Callas have decayed, to any place where the vegetables above mentioned are to be grown. It does not attack tree-fruits readily, and hence is not likely to produce fruit-rots. Its growth is not affected by diffused light, but direct sunlight will kill the organisms when isolated in from five to fifteen minutes. The successful treatment of diseased plants in the bed was considered impracticable, and pre- ventive measures had to be resorted to. It is safe therefore to state that the soft rot of the CaUa may be prevented or held in check suffi- ciently for all practical pm-poses by changing the soil every third or fourth year, depending upon the number of cases of rot that appear, and by exercising due caution in selecting only healthy plants for the bed. Diseased corms may be detected even in the dormant state by examining for discoloured spots, but it is safer to start the plants in pots, even after the corms having dis- coloured areas have been rejected, to ensure net- ting as few diseased plants as possible in "the beds, since some corms are so slightly affected that the disease is not easily detected in the d irmant state. M. C. C. ASPARAGUS SPEENGERI IN I LOWEK. I SEND you a photograph of a spray of Aspara- gus Sprengeri taken when the plant was in full flower. This plant is 75- feet in length, and the upper portion 3^ feet in width. The aroma of the flowers is very pronounced and delicious, especially in early morning, and resembling that of Peaches when very ripe. The flowers are a great attraction to bees. The species is worthy a.place in every conservatory and is most effective when planted with Asjiaragus deflexus in hanging baskets. The flowers of the latter species are put into the basket, which is 13 inches in diameter, from a 7-inch pot. The photograph was taker* nine months later, and serves to show how rapidly the plant grows. W. Thorpe, Gardenej-. tc< J. M. Collett, Esq., Hillfield, Gloucesier. _Py8LICATI0N flECEIVeQ._Z!,YKteift-as5J>ijj(Arecri> can), 60, Central Street, Boston, Mass., lI.3;Ai'.;n-.vi"., '..■ : FlC. 4.— ASPATlAOrS SPRENOEHI IN FLOWEn. not conspicuous, but when the plant is studded with scarlet berries intermingled with the feathery foliage, it is very attractive. Both species arc native of Zululand. Asparagus Sprengeri was discovered by J. Medley Wood, Esq., of the Natal Botanic Gardens, Durban, growing in the kloofs, where I am told it grows luxuriantly, hanging in festoons, and forming an imposing sight. Mr. Wood for warded specimens to Italy, to see if it was already in cultivation, but heard nothing further until it was introduced as .Vsparagus Sprengeri by Mr. Sprenger, nurseryman, Naples. Italy. I think a word of praise is due to Mr. Wood for introducing snch a valuable plant, also for other introductions, such as Cyrtanthus O'Brieni, Ceropegia Woodii, AC.'' I may say the plaiitj of A, .Sprengeri was FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE. NOTES PEOM JAPAN. The Genus Anemone. — Among early spring" flowers is the delicate Anemone Hepatica. I like this charming species, and cultivate many wild varieties of various colours. They Sourish in a cool, windy place, as is general with all ' Anemones. The winter sunshine cattses them' to open into unexpected beauty, and thej eon-.- tinue in bloom for a long time. It may be said* that this Hepatica has two different forjns, one with sharply-pointed lobes to the leaf, the other obtuse at the tips, as is seen in the wildi specimens. These may be collected in the same- mountainous region far from Tokyo. Besides this Hepatica there are otiber speoies-- of the genus Anemone which prefer woodlands - and hillsides, with rich light soil and pai'tial shade. They are not generally known ia oui - nurseries. I will here enumerate the names only of the species I know ; they are as follows : — A. altaica, Fischer ; A. cernua, Thunberg ;. A gracilis, Fischer ; A. fiaccida, Fr. Schmidt y A_ japonica, Siebold et Zuccarini ; A. Keiskeana T. Ito. ; A. nikoensis, Maximowicz ; A. 5od— deana, Regel ; A. stolonifera, Maximowicz. Adonis davueica. — There are only two apeaies- of the genus Adonis known in .Japan — A... davurica, Ledebour, and A. villosa, of Ledeboiu*. The wild species I have occasionally met with in mountainous and northern regions. It blooms- freely, and the beautiful flower is yellow in colour and prefers sunshine, and is afterwards gradaally hidden away under the surroundmg foliage, which» forms a good shady situation for it. Beariaig this- natural aspect in mind our successful cultivators- imitate the natural conditions and so accliHiatise- it in our gardens. The common form of the- plant was brought last year into our market by professional florists. . These plants are admired by us, and grow well in pots' in the early,' pleasantr days of the year. There are many garden. hybrids [and varieties which are raised fromr, seedlings. Some of them are less beautiful thaa. is the common one, but they are appreciated hy those .who like rarity and novelty. K. Hagiwara,. Tokio. TREES AND SHRUBS. THE HANDLING OP SEEDLINGS. The raising of plants from seed is usually a,ai easy matter, as it is only a question of providing-- the proper conditions of heat and moisture- necessary for germination to ensure a fair crop of seedlings if good seed is used. It is when the- seedlings have become large enough to require transplanting that the greatest difficulty arises. . As there are so many individual wants to satisfy, it becomes a matter of forethought to ensure that each different class of plant shall be grown under the conditions and in the soil best suitedfor it. It may be argued that seedlings of hardy tiees- and shrubs are hardy, and able to look after^- themselves if kept clear of weeds, but in practice this is not the case by any means, as- like other ■ classes of plants some are quick-growing and)i easy to cultivate, others are slow of growth and require constant attention, while some are either easy or difficult subjects according to whether- their requirements are properly .understood or not. '. ,^ ,, , ., ; Those that cajo, toia qertaiipi- extent, be left to^ look after themselves are chiefly forest and Jaxuaby 7, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 11 ■■underwood species, such as Horse Chestnut, Beech, Pine, Sycamore. Spruce, Larch, Alder, •Quick, L^tc., thouo-h in the case of some of theso -a certain amount of knowledge is required to dcnow- where to plant them, as it is utt-erly wrong to plant Larch or Sweet Chestnut, for instance, in low damp ground where they are liable to be ■ cut by spring frosts ; or Spruce on a poor stony hillside where it cannot grow. The Douglas Fir and Silver Fir are quick-growing plants that require a rather poor dry soil, as if planted in strong ground they make long weak leaders, which spoil the shape of the plants in after years; .a long leader in a young state meaning so much bare stem when the plants get older. Si>ruce, iLarch, Beech, Oak, &c., require good deep groimd where they can grow quickly, as the faster they :grow the better and " kinder '* plants they least two years after leaving' the seed-bed, or they will get coarse-rooted and at least fifty per cent, of them will die after transplantation if left longer than a year without being moved. Sequoia and Libocedrns especially must be shifted every year until they are in permanent quarters, for they grow fast and make long thick roots if left for two seasons, the cutting oft' of which will either cause the death of the plant or else cripple it so mucli that it takes two or three years to recover. An attempt to avoid the trouble of handling many subjects that are difficult to transplant is made in many instances l>y growing them in pots : but this system cannot be too strongly condemned, as pot-culture is ruinous to most hardy, ligneous plants, especially those which ultimately form trees. There are three plants that cannot be handled successfully in the open ground, and PEAE PASSE CEASSANE. In our issue fot December 24, Mr. Geo. Wood- ward, in his article, " Pears for Christmas and After," referred to the variety Passe Crassane in the highest terms of appreciation, and described it as a winter Doyenne du Cornice (fig. u). We have since received some specimens of the Pear from Mr. Woodward, and are disposed to agree fully with his estimate of its merits. The fruits are now at their best, but some of them, Mr. Wood- ward informs us, will keep in good condition until March. FLORISTS' FLOWERS. NEWER VARIETIES OF PENTSTEMONS. For some time past I have taken a deep interest in Pentstemons, selecting the best named ^^fl ^R^CHK^^■ i ^'^'i Fig. 5.^PEAR TASSE CftASSAKE. (From specimens supplicil by Mr. Geo. Woodward. Tlte r greatest difficulty with seedling hardy ferees and shrubs arises when we come to deal with ' purely ornamental plants, many of which Tequire careful handling to ensure properly- shaped and well-rooted specimens afterwards. -Probably the common Solly is the worst, as it Tequires constant attention to keep it in proper condition for removal, strange though it may vseemHha/t an indigenous plant should give more "trouble than many exotics. Seedling Hollies require to be transplanted annually for the first thTee or four years after being taken from the seed-bed, at tho end of which tinie they will stand and keep well rooted for two years. The oUowing ^ilante. Arbutus, Cytisus, Genista, Magnolia, Photinia, Ulex, Abies grand!?, Cedrus, Teuga Mortensiana, and in fact tho majority of ■Gonifers, must be tracspljinted annually for at they are Cratsgus Pyracantha, Oarrya elliptica, and Quercus Ilex, none of which I have ever been able to transplant with success, for even if they do not die. the upper part of the plant dies away, and instead of growing larger it gets smaller ahd weaker year by year. Excepting these three species there is practically no plant that cannot be handled successfully in the open ground. To grow i oniferoe, such as Abies, Picea, or Pinus, or any which make large trees with age, in pots, is a great mistake, as the roots talre the shape of the pot, and rarely, if ever, get away freely when planted out. To have plants in pots seems to have .become the rage this last two or three years, but plants from the open ground are far preferabloi if they have been properly transplanted and kept in good order for removal. J._ C-j Bagshot. sorts and growing them as well as I can ; and as every season adds to my list of varieties, making a final selection is a matter of considerable diffi- culty. This season I am growing a batch of varieties introduced by Mr. Forbes last year ; and for the benefit of those interested in Peht- stemons I have noted a few of those most desirable. Crimson Gem is perhaps one of tho most effective varieties in existence. The colour is dazzling crimson - scarlet, the throat broadly margined with cinnamon. Emile Kodigas is tho brightest scarlet Pentstemon I know, a distinct advance even upon Lord Lister, Phryne, or George Howe. The throat is pure white, and the bells fully 2\ inches in diameter. The habit of growth and strengtli of tho flower- spike are all that could be desired. Miss O. Inglis is not quite so large in the bells as some, but 12 TUE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaey 7, 1905. point of colour it is distinctly pleasing. The bells are rosy-scarlet-coloured, and the throat ■white, margined and striped with rose-colour. Marcel Dubois reminds one much of Talma ; in colour it is blush-white margined with rose, paler than in the case of Talma. It produces a vigorous flower-spike, and in every way is desirable. Jules de Lerne is of stvirdy growth, producing a large spike of carmine- coloured flowers with pure white throat. E. Heywood Thompson has deep-rose- coloured bells, and a white throat, margined with pale rose, flushed and striped with purple. Dr. Barrie is purple-crimson or of deep-claret coloui-, a fine spike with bells 2j inches in diameter. Henry Parr is rose-coloured, with a white throat margined and splashed with scarlet, of vigorous growth, producing a long spike of well-formed flowers. Marconi has rosy- crimson bells and white throat, veined and spotted with crimson and margined with rose colour. Edwin Beckett has the outer part of the bell of rose colour, fading to pale rose ; the throat is white, veined and splashed with purple and scarlet. Commandant Jouve grows fully 3 feet high and produces a compact spike of huge bells of a purple claret colour, the white throat is margined crimson. M. Deherain is of dwarf growth with rosy-crimson bells, bordered with red, throat veined with white. Daniel Bellet has rose-coloured bells and a white throat, which is pencilled with crimson and margined with chocolate colour. C. E. Fielder is of a rich rose eoloru-, but the white throat is margined with chocolate colour! The plant produces a fine closely set pyramidal spike of flowers. Lord Rothschild is of rose-pink colour, and the throat is veined and margined with crimson. John Jennings has bells 2 inches in diameter, of rose colour ; the throat is white, margined with crimson. Miss Talbot has rich dark crimson bells and pure white throat. E. Molyne-ux. HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (Thfi Editor does not hold himself responsible for the opinions expressed by his Correspondents.) FOSSIL PLANTS. — Tour correspondent •' M. A." (December 24, p. 452) gives the names of some plants still to be found growing in recent forma- tions of the post tertiary system, which also flourished in the coal measures of the carboni- ferous system of the Deutozoic life period. The names of plants mentioned by " M. A. " are the Mare's - tails, Equisetums and Ginkgo biloba ; I always prefer its synonym, Salisburia adianti- olia, as being by far the prettier, and certainly the most easily - pronounced name. Might not '* M, A. " also have included in his list that of Taxodium distichum as a present-day continua- tion plant of the carboniferous formation, as we read of its roots being found at great depths in the under-class of the Cypress swamps of the Mississippi valley, inst as stigmaria — the roots of Sigilaria — are found in the under-clays of the coal measures ? And are not our Arau- carias, Cycads, and some forms of the present period but a continuation also of the flora of the carboniferous life period ? Many fine avenues and isolated specimens of Araucaria are to be met with throughout the country, succeed- ing best on dry soils, and where the thermometer does not fall very low. Some handsome speci- mens of Taxodium distichum are also to be met with ; a very fine tree of it may be seen in the park at Combe Abbey, which I measured with an Abney level in 1887 ; its height then was 75 feet, and circumference at 3 feet from the ground II feet 6 inches. The same tree measured by J, C. Loudon in 1843 was 47 feet high, and diameter of trunk 2 feet 3 inches. There is a large .specimen at Asbury Priory, the seat of F. A. Newdigate, Esq., M.P. ; but unfortunately during that ever - memorable and destructive hurricane of Sunday, March 24, 1895, a large piece was broken from off the top of it. Loudon, in his Arboretmn, gives a list of the localities where Taxodium may be seen, also of when planted, their height, and diameter of both "top" and "butt.' This tree thrives best in moist places. " M A." incidentally remarks that Salisburia adiantifolia makes an admirable tree for town or street planting. Would he kindly give some information as to where it may be seen in this position ? and also whether he could give any information where in this country the Ailanthus glandulosus, or Tree of Heaven, may be seen as a street or town tree? [We know of specimens of each in the environs of London. Ed.] Why the Ailanthus should also be known by the synonym of "Tree of Heaven" I am at a loss quite to understand. Is it because it grows so tall ? But have we not trees in this country which tower heavenwards by many feet higher than the Ailanthus ? We need only mention such trees as the Elm, Douglas Fir, the Lombardy, and the Black Poplar ; all of them are quite as entitled to be " trees of heaven " as the Ailanthus. At present the choice of trees for town planting seems to be chiefly confined totwo species, viz., Platanus orientalis and varieties of TUia or Lime tree. Surely some other trees might be found quite as suitable and certainly quite as handsome as either of the above ! During a short spell of dry weather the Lime-tree drops its leaves and looks seedy for the remainder of the season, and added to this it gets the credit of being the cause of much of our dark-coloured and un- wholesome honey. When our scientists, who are now busy with the enterprise of ridding our large towns of smoke and fog, have succeeded, we may then see our streets ornamented with a choice collection of fine trees. I should like to see the Ailanthus more generally planted as a town tree ; it retains its graceful foliage untU the arrival of the first frost, when shade from the sun is no longer necessary, and being a tall grower it would form a high canopy over the street, thus rendering rmnecessary the cutting away a portion of the tops of trees which intercept the view. This sort of treatment may be seen all the way up the Rhine, especially where the boulevards of towns run parallel with the river. The residents must have shade, and they miist also have a view of the river and of the opposite bank. Where such enchanting scenery exists as is to be found there, the view ought never to be impeded or obscrured — no, not even by a single twig. W. Miller, Berkswell, January 2, 19(.i5. SPIR/EA BILLARDL — According to Zabel's classification of Spirseas this is a variety of S. Menziesii x,a hybrid between S. Douglasi and S. salicifolia. It belongs to the sixth (Euspiraria) section of the genus, of which the well-known S. Douglasi is a typical example. The list of this section is as follows : — - S. difformia {alba x corjmbosa), S. d. var. effusa, S. d. var. typica, S. J. var. subincisa. S. salicifolia and vara. S. Menziesii (Douglasi x salicifolia), S. M. var. triumphans, S. M. var. pseudo-Douglasi. S. M. var. angustifolia, S. ^I. var. eximia, S. M. var. ovalifolia, 8. M. var. macrothyrsa, S. M. var, Eillardi, S. M. var. Lenneaua. S, Douglasi. S. palliditlora (Menziesii X tomentosa). S. tomentosa. Zabel, however, made nearly as many varieties or hybrids as he grew plants, so that it is a difficult matter to know the differences between some of them. There is really very little distinction between the above varieties of S. Menziesii. J. C, Bagshoi. EFFECTS OF RECENT FOGS ON PLANTS AT KEW. — Last month will be remembered at Kew as one in which an exceptional amount of damage was done to indoor plants by fog. Nothing like it has been experienced here since the winters of 1889-90 and 1890-91, when fogs proved so inju- rious, not only near London, but in other parts of the country, as " to cause dismay to all interested in horticulture, and gave rise to a general feeling that something ought to be done," This led to an investigation, at the instance of the Scientific . Committee, of the " Effects of Urban Fog upon Cultivated Plants " by Prof. F. W. Oliver, and his report was published in the Journal of the Royai Borticultural Society, vol. xiii., 1891, and vol. xvi., 1893. He found that the injury to plants caused by fog in the neighbourhood of large towns was due to the presence of various poisonous vapours, par- ticularly sulphurous acid, which come chiefly from coal smoke. These poisons cannot be kept out of plant-houses except by contrivances which are not? practicable, and we are therefore reduced to the- very indifferent expedient of maintaining a com- paratively low temperature and a dry atnlosphere^ in the houses whilst the fog is upon us. It is doubtful if these conditions serve to mitigate the- ill-effects of fog. At any rate, we have suffered terribly at Kew, notwithstanding the precau- tions taken to lessen the effects. Sulphuroi^- acid could not be kept out of the houses, whilst over everything outside, including the glass,, there was deposited a layer of what might be called a mixture of tar, oil, and soot, which has- stuck hard, darkening the houses, and no doubt doing much damage to outside vegetation. The gardener in the country knows nothing of these diificulties, but it is to be hoped that he does not overlook them when he inspects the work; of his less fortunate brethren. Up to the middle of December the indoor collections at Kew were healthy and flourishing, although a few delicate Orchids, such as Calanthes and Dendrobium Phalsenopsis, and some greenhouse plants, par- ticularly Begonias and Acanthads, were injured by the fogs of November 14 and 15, But the dense, dirty fogs experienced from December 19 to ■ 27 were most destructive to many kinds of plants. In the Palm-house the leaves fell as thickly as . they do out-of-doors after a frost in October,, and it was almost as bad in the Temperate-- house. Winter-flowering plants were stripped of their flowers and buds, whilst such genera as Coleus, Moschosma,Euphorbia,.Reinwardtia, Bou- vardia,Jacobinia,.\phelandra, Salvia, Eupatorium, Poinsettia, Echium, Tecoma, Begonia (tuberous and evergreen sections), Brunfelsia, Luculia, So- lanum, Piper, Codiseum (Crotons), Ipomiea, Panax, . Clerodendron, and Bougainvillea were in most cases reduced to bare sticks. Even the Acacias in the Temperate-house suffered, and such sturdy shrubs as Coffea, Gmelina, Barringtonia and Csesal- pinia were severely hurt. The climbers under - the roof of the Palm-house were on the whole the- greatest sufferers, due probably to the poistmous. vapours being thickest nearest the glass. A list of the genera that suffered most numbers 118, exclusive of Orchids, In the Orchid-houses all the flowers and buds of Augraeoum, Phala'Uopsis,. Calanthe, Catasetum, Dendrobium, Laelia and Catt-- leya were destroyed. So far as my observation goes- plants in the open-air are not affected by fog in. thf same way as those under glass. No doubt they are injured by the greasy-sooty deposit on their leaves and stems, but sulphurous acid does ■ not cause the leaves to fall off at once as it does^ the leaves of shrubs grown under glass. W^ Watson, January 4, 1905. COLOUR IN APPLES.— I think that moisture- plays an important part in producing colour. In writing of moisture, I mean the natural rainfall,. not artificial watering, although trees copiously watered during the summer will, other conditions ■ being favourable, produce highly-coloured fruit- I do not refer to such Apples that colour well in any season, such as Worcester Pearmain, Gas- coyne's Scarlet Seedling, Mere de Menage, &C.,. but to such Apples as Cox's Orange Pippin, Eibston Pippin, Boston Eusset ; and, among- cooking Apples, Tower of Glamis, Alfriston, &c. The sun plays an important part in bringing out the colour, but some soils will produce a higher and more intense colour in both Apples and Pears than others. Is this due to the presence of iron in the soil ? The most striking example of moisture producing colour which I have ever noticed was during the past summer, after the heavy rains we had in the month of July — 4 to 5 inches. One could almost see the colour deepen day by day, not only in fruit, but in other things. Some Dracajna-leaved Beet, that was quite green, assumed a blackish-crimson colour a day or two after the rains, while it was also most noticeable in other root crops. Gravenstein is a good-flavoured Apple, but, like many other good things, it is very sparingly produced here. I could have shown good fruits of September Beauty at the Eoyal Horticultural Society's show, but put up Mabbott's Pearmain instead. I have never had Cox's Orange Pippin of such superb colour as they are this season, while the flavour is exceptionally good. I staged them twice in open competition; on both occasions there were over thirty-five entries, but they were Januaby 7, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 13 far ahead of the others in colour and finish. Lady Sudeley has with me been much deeper in colour than usual this season : it is a grand early Apple to gather as required from the tree, and it is almost too large for dessert. T. H. iSlade, Poltimore Qardens, Exeter. LILY OF THE VALLEY. — Mr. Vrengdenhill. Haarlem, Holland, says, Oardeneri>' Chronicle, December . Dahlia The Mikado.— I note on p. 455 of the last volume that amongst the National Dahlia Society's list of Dahlia novelties (for) of 190i there is a single-flowered variety called "Mikado." A year previously this name was given to a novelty from the firm of H. Kohlmannslehner, Britz, Berlin, and as I am agent for this firm I beg to bring the matter before your readers to prevent any error. " Mikado '* (Kohlmanns- lehner) was described and illustrated in Die Qartenwelt, vol. viii., p. 24, as one of the best novelties of its year. The flower very much resembles a ** Chrysanthemum," and if this name had not already been given to a recent variety the raiser would have adopted that name. 'I'he thin tubuliformed florets, which are twisted and incurved, are of dark cherry- red colour. The flower is in size a little larger than " Red Rover," and very free-flowering, and was given the highest Certificate from the German Dahlia Society. Enclosed please find a copy of the issue of Die Gartenivdt in question, which contains the rules adopted by the German Dahlia Society. Frank Koehler, London. CUCUMBER DISEASE OR "SPOT." — In reply to Mr. Owen Thomas's request with regard to the Cucumber disease or '"spot" (Cercospora melonis) (December 24, p. 43S), which has caused such severe damage and involved such enormous financial losses to the growers during the past ten years, I venture to give the results of several experimental trials of remedies v/hich have been made at a large market-growing establishment in this neighbourhood, extending over the past four years. The proprietor has been a Cucumber- grower on a large scale since 18(J0 ; he first noticed the disease six years ago, since which date it appears to be getting worse and worse. Unless some remedy is quickly found the growth of this crop on an extensive scale is doubtless, as Mr. Owen Thomas says, a doomed industry in Eng- land. From systematic observations by the proprietor he became convinced that the disease was not caused by imperfect root action, neither by soil, manure, nor water. In the immediate vicinity of the nursery it was observed that many garden flowers and wild plants were attacked by a similar leaf-spot disease ; it was thought therefore that the fungus germs were con- veyed into the houses from outside. Several specimens of these diseased leaves were conveyed to the Rothamsted Experimental Laboratory, and the fungus was cultivated, with the resulc that it was found to be of quite a distinct char- acter from that of the Cucumber leaf-spot. Pre- ventive trials were set on foot in the year 1901. In the first year cow-manure was mixed with sulphur and applied to the h(tt- water pipes without any beneficial result. For the second crop an application of flowers-of-sulphur and quicklime was used; this also proved of no avail in stopping the disease. In the second year (1902) a Bordeaux-mixture was sprayed on to the plants as a preventive before there wa^ any appearance of the disease, and was carried on at intervals through the summer. The spots, however, multiplied rapidly, spreading through all the leaves of every house, causing the plants to wither and decay. No disease could be found on the roots. In the third year the remedy as recommended by the Board of Agricultiu-e was tried, using a solution of Potassium sulphide (liver- of -sulphur), 2 ounces to H gallons of water, adding 2 ounces of soft-soap. The solution was sprayed on to the plants, wetting every part, both the upper and the under surfaces of the leaves, and thoroughly drenching the soil. Again, a failure to stop the disease was the result. At the end of theseason the whole of the surface-soil was wheeled out of the houses, and to the subsoil was applied a dressing of ammoniacal liquor. One ton of liquor was given to each 150- feet house for the purpose of killing any fungus germs that might be lurking in the soil or on the woodwork of the houses. So strong was the ammonia gas given off that it discoloured the paint on the woodwork and killed all insect life, but it did not prevent the appearance of the "spot" disease in the following season, even although new surface soil was employed. In the fourth year (1904) the disease was first seen as early as March 23. Commencing on March 25 the disease was kept in check by spraying the plants with a solution of sulphate of copper, using 1 ounce of copper to ;tO gallons of water every fourth day. This eventually had the efi'ect of drying up the plants so that they became extremely susceptible to the attacks of red spider, and it was impossible to keep these pests under. The remedy in this case was considered as bad as the disease. A pre- paration of cupram was also tried — \ pint of strong liquid ammonia was added to 2 quarts of water in which was dissolved 1 ounce of carbonate of copper. This blue fluid was further diluted with 12 gallons of water and sprayed on to the plants. Hut as this preparation could not bo used after the fruit began to form it was useless in preventing the diseaso attacking the young foliage late in the season. lu each of the 14 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JajSUAky 7, 1905. fdur years it was found that the hotter the ■wfeather the more virulent was tlie disease. Every time a crop of Cuoumters was finished the woodworl; of the houses wa? washed with a solution of sulphate of iron, 2 oz. to a gallon of water. Sulphate of iron has also been applied as tnanm-e. Varying quantities of sulphate of potash have been given as manure. The houses have further been vaporised with sulphur, using Eichards's lamps of the largest size, twenty-four lamps to each 150-feet house; the lamps were kept going for two hours. All these experiiiiental trials have so far proved of no avail in arresting the leaf-spot disease. It seems, therefore, that so long as Cucumbers are grown imder the present " highly forced " conditions of moisture and heat ho remedy can be found, because what kills the disease w'ill also kill the plant. J. J. }Villis, DAN/C RACEMOSA = RUSCUS RACEMOSUS = tAURUS ALEXANDRINA (ALEXANDRIAN LAUREL OR BAY). — (See enquiry on p. 4GS). — " Supposed to be the plant with which the ancients crowned their victors and poets. The stalks of this, being very pliable, may be easily wrought into coronets for this purpose, and the leaves of this plant having a great resemblance to those which are represented on the ancient busts, seem to con- firm this opinion." The above is quoted from Miller's Gardeners' Dictionary. In Potter's Antiquities of Greece, vol. i., p. J4G, of the ■Olympian Games it is stated : " the original [game] was only a race . . . the victor was crowned with an Olive garland, which was not composed of the common Olive branches, nor the natural product of that country, but brought from the hyperborean Scythians, and planted near Olympia, where it flourished, though not after the manner of other Olive trees, but spread- ing out its boughs more like a Myrtle. . . . G.arlands given to victors in these games w-ere always composed of it, and it was forbidden under a great penalty to cut it for any other nse." Of the Pythian Games it is recorded that "Aristomenes was crowned with Laurel that flourished upon Moimt Parnassus, but at the first institution of these games the victors were crowned with garlands of Palm orof Beech leaves." In the Nemean Games the victors were crowned withParsley. Parsley wastheconqueringornament of the Isthmian sports, but garlands of Pine- leaves were likewise used, and afterwards the use of Parsley was discontinued. Another quotation of interest is from the Treasury of Botany, above the well-known initials " M. T. M.":— "Under the common name of Laurel many very different plants are met with in gardens ; but Bay or Noble Lam-el (Lauius nobilis) is the only one which is properly so called. ... It is one of the plants called Daphne by the ancients. The branches of this plant were likewise used to form the crowns placed on the heads of the heroes of antiquity, and on the statues of the gods ; hence, perhaps, the name, from laiis (praise), and also the specific name, • noble.' " Seeing that the revival of the Olympian Games, according to CaUimachus, took place about 828 B.C., it is not surprising that there is some diflicnlty in deter- mining the particxilar plants used then by the ancient Greeks for making the crowns 'or garlands for distinguishing the heroes of the' 'Olympian Xinmes.' John E. Jcfferies, Oxford. ' '' AUDIT'OF CHRYSANTHEMUMS.^-ThiB as given •by Mr. H. S. Kemp on p. 1.53 is very interesting but ■ hardly correct in the statement that 'the various 'positions are obtained by the number of times ■ shown. Should it not be "by the nttmber of times • mentioned in the reports given by certain papers" Y ■ It is well known that compared with many varie- Hies not mentioned, Madame Carnot, Mrs. Mease, and Mrs. Bryant have been shown in noteworthy form, scarcely at all, and from sDihe important shows were entirely absent. They were met with much less frequently than Miss Olive Miller, Ethel ritzroy, and Sensation. In some large exhibi- .tions these have each appeared in good form more ' than the minimum number of times mentioned (twelve). I made notes of the number of exhibits certain varieties appeared in the three most ' important shows in the kingdom — Crystal Palace, ■iBirmingham, and Edinburgh. Bessie Godfrey ■ was'shbwn in- sixty exhibits at the .first'liamed. and forty at Edinburgh ; F. S. Vallis almost as many ; Mafeking Hero was in five of the six exhi- oits in the most impartant class, besidestwenty-five others in the same show. It also apjjeared twenty- seven times at the Crystal Palace, and about the same number at Birmingham. Henry Perkins was shown in excellent style more often than Mrs. Mease, and among novelties I noted Sou- venir de Madame Benson and Mrs. C. Beckett more than four times. H. S. Silsbury is without doubt the fiaest novelty of last season, but I believe others will prove superior to those honoured by inclusion in the best six. W. J. G. THE TRAINING OF YOUNG GARDENERS. — It is not surprising that someone has been impressed by the remarks of "J. G. W. " on p. 411, and no doubt Mr. C. Buokland feels somewhat relieved after giving us his little story on p. 453 about the smart young foreman who had never touched a spade to use it. This man must have received his training in some very funny gardens, for even in the glass department the spade is in- dispensable ; and I venture to say that whilst Mr. Buckland was looking for the specimen to suit his purpose, he might have easily found a dozen foremen who would have been only too pleased to discuss with him the proper use of the spade in the way of trenching, root - pn.ming, planting, &c. Young gardeners of to-day are often called upon to take over the charge of gardens that have drifted into a most deplor- able condition, which points plainly to the fact that amongst the old school there were a great many who not only despised the use of the spade" and hoe, but in many other ways were very inefficient. }V. C. R. On p. 453, "W. C. E." takes exception to remarks of mine in a former issue ; but I think it would have been more appropriate to point otit a little more clearly the particular remarks which, in his opinion, " have no foundation." Naturally no one expects that all will agree with any one statement made, but I have had confirmation of my views from friends and also from total strangers. After over twenty years' experience in medium-sized and large gardens I again say most emphatically that a great many young: gardeners are deficient in many branches of outside work. But here let me say that I do not think it is a case of being " too particular," as I have generally found, if put to them properly, that they are usually anxious to have a turn at all branches of the profession : but I think that in the trainmg of young gardeners too much is made of the glass department. With reference to the remarks of "W. C. E.," "that almost the whole of our summer bedding, as well as many other flowering plants, &c., are the produce of this [the glass] department," and the allusion lower down to the '• reductions of labour in gardens," where such reductions have unfortunately been made, I would say that much labour is practically wasted in the production of huge quantities of Pelargoniums, Alternantheras, Iresine. and sucli- like tender plants, to the exclusion of many beau- tiful and quite hardy perennial plants, which are not utilised nearly as inuch as they might be, and which do not require nmch room and attention under glass, at a time of the year when the labour thus saved may be put to very good use in the outside departments in getting work generally in a forward condition for the busy months of spring and early summer. J. G. IV., Bissborough. JASMINUM PRIMULINUM.— Mr. Mayne (p. 441) remarks that this species is " said to be quite hardy." It is certainly true that when Messrs. Veitch distributed it they said, " It is hardy in this country, and at our Coombe Wood Nursery has resisted 16° frost on a north wall." Un- fortunately I cannot bear testimony to its hardiness, as a fine plant on a sheltered west wall here was killed to the ground in November, when we registered 25° frost. This plant was in full growth when the frost came, and had I anticipated such severe weather I should have taken care to have had it adequately protected. It is dis- appointing to find that this species will be unsuited for this part of the Midlands, as its free and graceful growth and floriferous habit make it a most desirable wall plant. The severe frost coming so suddenly did a great amount of ;e in this neighbourhood '(Wbioh is ra,ther low lying), and I am a little surprised to find that a large old plant of Buddleia globosa, 10 feet high, has been kiUed to the ground. Arthur B. Goodwin, The Sims, Kidderminster. SOCIETIES, THE ROYAL HOBTICULTURAL. J.WUARY 3. — The first meeting of the Coinniittees of this Society in H-105 was not accompanied by a large display of exhibits. This is nothing unusual in the month of January, but in the old Drill Hall the smaUness of the display was not so apparent as in the new and more spacious Hall in A'inceut Square. Visitors on Tuesday last were more impressed with the size and light appearance of this building than they had been hitherto, yet there were several very hand- some groups of Cjpripedixuus and other Orchids, also of ornamental foliage and flowering plants. The Orchid Committee recommended two Botanical Certificates and four Awards of Merit to novelties ; the Floeal Committee an Award of Merit to a variety of Chrysanthemum ; and the FBnrr and Vegetable CoMMiiTTEE Awards of Merit to an Apple and a Pear. At a meeting held in the afternoon forty-two new- Fellows were elected. Floral Committee. Present : H. B. May, Esq., in the chair ; and Messrs.* C. T. Druery, Jas. Hudson, Jno. Green, Jas. "Walker,! Geo. Nicholson, J. A. Nix, H. J. Jones, G. ReutheJ Chas. E. Shea, C. E. Fielder, Chas. Dixon, W. HoweJ H. J. Cutbush, K. C. Notcutt, Chas. E. Pearson, Geol Paul, W. P. Thomson, E. H. Jenkins, and W. J.. Tames. A number of vases was shown furnished with liowera of a white Japanese Chrysanthemum named Lady Belper, shown with long stems, there being three, four, and five Howers on each stem. The tiowers came from Lord Beli'ER's garden near Derby (gi-., Mr. ■\V. H. Cooke), who stated that the variety is an Australian scedhng. Flowering so well at this late season it is valuable. Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, staged flowering plants ami spr.^ys in vases of Moschosma riparium. The inflorescences were pleasing and well developed (Cultural Commendation). Messrs. W. Wells & Co., Ltd., Earlswood Nur- series, EedhiU, Surrey, displayed some vases of Chrys- anthemums, principally of "single" and "quilled" varieties. Messrs. HuuH Low & Co., Bush Hdl Park, Middlesex, staged three baskets of a pleasing variety of Cyclamen named " Low's S.almon," also vases containing varieties of these flowers, and plants of Asparagus medeuloides. Messrs. Wm. CcTbUSU & Sox, nurserymen. High- gate, N., set up a collection of alpine plants, backeil with a number of small shrubs— Conifers, Pernettya in fruit. Daphne mezereum, Eupatorium'NVeinmannianum, and similar plants suitable for the rock-garden. Iris Histrio, I. sophenensis, I. "S'artaui, and I. Hcldreicbi were exhibited in flower (Silver Banksian Medal). Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton, staged an excellent collection of greenhouse ]ilants. Ferns, Azaleas, Primula obcouica, P. kewensis, Daphne indica alba. Erica mclantkera, Eranthemiun pulchellum, &c. Many choice specimen Ferns weit introduced into the group, the whole of which was arranged with excellent taste (Silver Flora Medal). Messrs. jAS. Vkituh k Soss, Ltd., King's lloail, Chelsea, set up a nimiber of greenhouse plants. Colon! thyrsoideus, Moschosma ri])arium (flowering well it small pots), Jaoobinia chrysostephana, and seve»l baskets of the winter-flowering Begonias, B. Agatha, Julius, &c, Gesnera (Nasgelia) exoniensis was ahowi with the inflorescences about to open, the handsow foliage being not the least decorative character of th' plants (Silver Banksian Medal), A handsome grouj) of plants of Euphorbia jacquim* flora was displayed by Mr. Beckett, gr. to Lord AldB i HAM, Elstree. This old garden plant was plentifoll' i (lowered, the sprays being very bright in appearancf.l and well set off by a number of Palms, Ft-rns, 4c..| introduced into the gt'oup for effect (Silver Flora Med»l),| Award of Merit. ( Chri/sanlhcmum Market Gold. — This is a ri«N golJen-yellow-coloured decorative or Japanese vatirtj, JANUARY 7, 1905.1 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. W which from its habit is considered to be valuable for market jmrposes. — Shown by Lord Al.nENHAjr, Elstree (gr.. Sir. Beckett). Orohid Committee. Present: Harry J. Veitch, Ksq., iu the chair: ami Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), J. Gurney Fowler, De B. Crawshay, J. W. Potter, Francis Wellesley, Jeremiah Colman, "\V. Boxall, J. W. Odell, W. H. Yomig, H. A. Tracy, A. A. McBe^n, G. F. Moore, R. G. Thwaites, H. T. Pitt, J. Charlesworth, H. Little, and F. W. Ashton. There was a far better show of Orchids than the inclement weather seemed to foreshadow, and the meeting was remarkable by reason of the extraordin- arily fine group of magnificently-grown specimens of Orcliids from the famous collection of Captain G. L. HOLFOED, C.I.E., Westonbirt, Tetbury (gr., Mr. Alexander), for whicli the Society's Gold Medal was awarded, and the Lindley Medal for excellent culture voted. The group, which extended the whole length of the central staging of one side of the Hall, was composed principally of large specimens of the best varieties of C. x Leeanum, C. insigne, and other handsome Cypripediums, the speci- mens bearing in the aggregate some .500 flowers. Among the best noted were C. x Leeanum Holford's variety, a dark-coloureil and finely marked form with twenty flowers ; C. x L. giganteum, with twenty -four and sixteen flowers ; C. x L. AVestonbirt variety, with fourteen flowers, and other forms equally good. C. X .r. Howes bore eleven large blooms, C. x nitens superbum, fifteen, and several forms of C. x aureum and C. x Sallieri from five to ten flowers. Among tlie rarer specie mens of Cypripediums noted were several very massive forms of C. x Hera, the best of which were the new and fine varieties "Marion" and "Joan," both handsome flowers and finely marked ; C. x Aotseus langleyense was a pretty light-coloured hybrid which had pre- viously received an award ; C. x Alcibiades (Leeanum giganteum x Mons. de Curte), a bold flower of good quahty ; C. X Scipio (Sallieri Hyeanum x Mrs. Tautz), an improvement on C. x Sallieri aureum ; and good examples of C. x Charlesianum, C'. x Fascinator, C. X Tityns (six flowers), and the best forms of C. in- signe. The centre of the well-arranged group was made up of good specimens of Oncidium tigrinum, Lielia anceps, L. a. Sanderiana, L. a. Amesiana, and a few good Odontoglossum crispum ; and at intervals were fine specimens of Lwlia autumnalis, one specimen of the large and finely-coloured " Westonbirt " variety having seven spikes, bearing together twenty-three flowers of bright scarlet colour: on the front row were several good specimens of Sophronitis grandiflora. Messrs. Charlesworth k Co., Heaton, Bradford, were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a good group in which the main feature was LKho-Cattleya x Charles- worthii, about thirty plants of it, someof them with several strong spikes being used, their bright coppery- orange coloured flowers with ruby-purple labellnms giving a very bright effect. With tliem were a plant of the pretty L.-C. x Andromeda with primrose-yellow flowers with claret-coloured labeUums ; several good Odontoglossum crispum; O. x Hallio-crispum, several of the pretty wliite-and-rose Trichopilia suavis, &c. Mr. J. Cypheh, Cheltenham, secured a Silver Flora Medal for a remarkably good group of rare Cypri- podiums, all exceptionally well grown and flowered. The group included a selection of the best forms of Cjpripedium insigne, C. x Leeanum, C.x aureum, and othcrwiiiter-blooming kinds. Specially noteworthy were C. msigne "HarefieldHall,"C.i. Sander,*, C.i.Sanderi- annm, and C. i. Oyama, the last-named being a singular and beautiful variety of the C. i. Bohnhoflianum class which the spottuig is suppressed and the liecuhar pale rosy-brown colouring disposed in close reti- culation and tinting. Others noteriiiedium x .\iny Mobfe (SaUieri aureum x insigne maximum), a lar^'e yellowish flower Amesiana . Wcllesley's v.iricty, and two othoM (so* Awards). . ' , , , Awards op Muniiv . .* Gp.pri}Kdvu^rni x Mcmoria Jcritinoluimifi'^ [ from Fbancib Wku.ksi,by, Esq., Wcstfiohl, ' Woking (gr.; Mr. Hopkins). —A noble hybrid of unrecordod origiin The flowers have the massive form of some of tlic 16 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [January 7, 1905. darkest C. x aiircnm, but witli a thicker texture and other characters suggestive of one of the hybrids of C. Drurii, perhaps C, x AVinnianum, heiug one of the parents. There is a charming undulation to the seg- ments of the flower, and altogether it has a novel and attractive appearance. The dorsal sepal is pure white with a small purple base from which ascends some stout emerald -green rays, the middle of the sepal having a broad purple band. Petals and lip honey- yellow tinged with purple-brown, the margin of the lip being clear yellow, and the surface of the flower very glossy. Ciqyripcdiitvi x urstiirlch'cjisc (Leeanum superburn X PoUettianum), from Francis "Wellesley. Esq. (gr., Wr. Hopkins). — A fine flower with large white dorsal sepal with a small gi-een base, the greater part of the white area being covered with lines of bright rose irregular spots. Petals and lip Vfllowisli, heavily tinged with dark mahogany-red. Ctqwipcdiwni x Ah-ihiadcR {Leennum giganteum x M. de Curte), from f'aptain G. L. HoLFOKi), Weston- birt (gr., Mr. Alexander). — Flower large and of fine substance, the showy white ). Acrides Ortr/iesiamnn, from F. AV. Moore, Esq., Glasnevin. A species with greenish-white flowers, slightly marked with rose. Originally described by Keichenbach, in the Gardeners' Chronicle, 1885, p. 501. Cv LTU R a L Com menp ation to the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschiltj, for a magnificent eight -branched inflorescence of Phahenopsis Aphrodite, with nearly fifty flowers. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present : y Mr. Waters, who gave details of the lustory and oultiire of Potatos, Attention was directed to the famous Nortliern Star variety, and some remark- able personal experience with it were related. Mr. Sparks gave some useful observations on spraying as a preven- tive of diseasf^. A suggestion that the Society should procure a sprayer next year, and lend it to the members at a small oliarjje. was veiy favourably received. Tliere was affood display of Potatos at the meeting, no fewer than thirty-two varieties being sent by Messrs. J. C. Wheeler tt Son, nurseiymen, Gloucester, wlio, in addi- tion, sent two varieties of Onions and a collection of Primulas. The treasurer, Mr. O.G. McLaren, announced a presentation of gardening books to the Society given by a gentleman who wished to remain anonymous. Sixteen new members were elected, making the total number of members 118. T. P. EGHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENERS*.— At a meet- ing of tins Society, held on December 21, a paper was read by Mr. G. Baskett. of Wood Lea, Virginia Water, on "Tlie Rose Garden." Mr. Baskett. after referring to the history of the Rose, gave detailed information with regard to selecting the most suitable site, the forma- tion, soil, planting, and arrangements of the Rose- garden ; the most suitable varieties of Roses to grow, and the best methods of pruning the various speties of Roses. A discussion ensued in regard to draining "otlier than water-logged soils ;" also as to the advisa- bility of earthing dwarf Roses as a protection during severe weather. REIGATE, REDHILL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS.— The fortnightly meeting was held on Tuesday. De- cember 20. Mr. VV. P. Bound occupying the chair. The subject for debate was "Successes and Failures during li<04." The discussion was lea by Mr. Herbert, of the Gardens, Nutlield Court. There were about eighty members present, of whom a number took part in the proceedings. Mr. Herbert was able to report many successes. Crops of fruit were undoubtedly good, not only in this district, but almost everywhere in the country; the quality was also exceptionally good. Vegetables were in no way lacking in merit ; reports ol splendid crops were generally noted. Tlie Onion-lly had heen troublesome in some districts. Celery was generally good, the Celery-fly being less noticed than la 1903. Peas wore also good : the variety The Glad- stone was highly spoken of for late cropping. The Chairman strongly advocated trenching as a means of preparing ground. C. L. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. SCHEDULES RECEIVED. International Exposition of the 3ooi6to d'Horti- culiure dc Geni've from September 6 to September 12, 1906, at Genev.^. COLTURAL MEMORANDA. SOLANTJM JASMraOIDES. This very desirable greenhouse climbing plant is easily propagated by cuttings from the young growths, these being inserted in efficiently crocked 3-inch pots filled with a compost consisting of three parts light sandy loam and one of leaf- mould, plunged in a gentle bottom-heat, watered, and kept close until rooted, when they should be potted off singly into H-inch pots and grown on in the usual way. Young pl.ants may also be raised from seed sown thinly in pots, afterwards treating the seedlings as indicated above. Some time ago the writer saw in the lofty and elegant conser- vatory attached to Watermouth Castle, near Ilfracombe, a plant of this white and sweetly- scented greenhouse perennial in grand flower ; the flowering shoots, hanging loosely and gracefully from the roof, were very effective. ENQUIRY. Mtbobalan Plum. — Can any reader of the Oardeners' Chronicle, who has planted the Myro- balan Plum for hedging purposes, tell me if it is a good substitute for Quick (Thorn) ? Nursery- men are reluctant to give much information con- cerning it. Any hints on its culture, etc., will be gratefully received. Keader. *,* Editor and Publishee. — Our Correspon- dents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their comraunicalions, and save us mucli time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect that all communications relating to tinaucial matters and to advertisements should be addressed to the Publlsher : and that all communications intended for publication, or refer- ring to the Literary department, and all plants to be named, should be directed to the Editor. The two departments. Publishing and Editorial, are quite distinct, and much unnecessary delay and confusion arise when letters are misdirected. Books ; Journeyynan. Ele^mniary Botany, by Percy Groom. It can be obtained from our Publishing Department. British Gardeners' Association : J. C, Bead' ingly, Leeds. Your request for rules and particulars of this Association has been for- warded to the Secretary, Mr. W. Watson, Kew Eoad, Kew. Fekns : E. B. The appearances are those caused by thrip. Weak tobacco-water may be used and frequently repeated. The atmosphere of the house is probably too dry. Holt Thorn ; Nuneham. You are doubtless referring to what is popularly known as the Glastonbury Thorn, an early-flowering variety of Crattegus oxyacantha, known as C. oxyacan- tha prsecox in gardens. It is popularly supposed to have sprung up at Glastonbury from the " staff " of Joseph of Arimathea, and to produce its blossoms on Christmas Day. Name.s op Fruits : C. E. W. Glout Morceau.^ S. B., Thrapston. Kindly send other specimens, as your last consignment, and those of some other Correspondents, appear to have been lost in the post, doubtless owing to the press at Christmas, and to the confusion caused by the fog. — G. H. 1, Tower of Glamis ; 2, London Pippin ; 3, Herefordshire Pearmain. — F. E. Feear. 1, MinchuU Crab; 2, Whiting Pippin; 3, Claygate Pearmain ; 4, Court of Wick ; 5, Bramley 's Seedling ; Pear, Nouvelle Fulvia. Names of Plants : T. B. A. Thunbergia lauri- folia. — E. B. 1, Ornithogalum laoteum ; 2, Veltheimia viridifolia. — S. H. Begonia ricini- folia, manicata ; Poly podium glaucum ; Adian- tum formosum ; the large frond with small pinUBe, Adiantum decorum. — A. S. Oncidium sphacelatum ; Phalsenopsis Schilleriana, and Cattleya Percivaliana. — A. B. C. 1, Azalea in- dica alba plena ; 2, A. indica alba ; 3, not recog- nised ; 4, A grass, not recognised ; 5, Selaginella denticulata of gardens ; 6, Eupatorium mi- cranthum [ligustrinum], — G. H. Ilex dipyrena. — /. M. — Salvia leucantha ; Dianthus superbus. Spruce Galls ; T. R. The work of an insect (Chermes) allied to that known as American blight. It is very common, but we are unable to suggest any " cure," beyond removing the affected shoots in spring and burning them. Tree Fern: N. P. J. Without making an examination of the plant, which you describe as having grown for tiiirty years in your con- servatory, we cannot definitely say what has caused it to droop. You state, however, that the roots are contained in a wooden tub, and that it is possible that the plant was neglected during the period that elapsed between your head-gardener's death in July and the appoint- ment of his successor in October. If the roofc were allowed to suffer from drought thif would naturally cause the young fronds t( droop, and if the check was sufficiently severe they, will wither entirely. But Tree Ferns have! wonderful amount of vitality, and your sped men will most likely develop fresh fronds although it loses all those that have developed Do not disturb the roots at present, but let thi plant be given care for a time in the same con ditions as heretofore, and await the resul hopefully. Communications Received. — H. S.— .1. H. — A. B. W. H. S.— F. C— G. T.-Fred. Burvenich. Glient- W. .1. W.— Jason-.l. S.— J. Q. W.— H. W., Trcvince- A. D. H.— W. \V.— Exhibitoi-— W. F.-.I. C— S. A. Constant Reader-Mr. T., Worsley-G. .1. 1.-II. A. Pffl tigrew-J. S.-J. D. C— H. E. C— De B. Crawshay- J. B. L.— N. S.— H. & S., Germany— T. Humphreys- J.V. iSons. {For Markets and Weather, see pp. xiv. and xv.) Supplement to the "Gaij'jnere- Chronicle.' Sir Joseph Dalton Hookek, G.C.S.I., C.B., F.R.S., F.L.S., &c., late Director oe the Royal Gardens, Kew. [From Ihe Painting by Hubert Herkomer, A'. A., in t/ic possession of the Liiincan Hoeicly. Jajjuary H, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. THE ;\^,. i)i-2.—SATUIWAY. Jan. 14. 1905. CONTENTS. Apple census, llie 26. 'AS Asparagus Sprengeri ... 2S Beuevolent Institution. Gardeners' Royal 25, 2S Board of Agriculture, .leaflets of the 28 Books, notices of— Book of Topiary ... 26 Pigs for Profit ... 'Ah Camellia trec.afamous 25 Ciirysautliemum graft- .ing- 25 Ciirysautliemum sport, a 28 'Cucumber disease ... 2S Cultivation, cxpcri- tnental 20 Cypripediums at Man- i cliester 21 Dahlia " The Mikado " 2i) Florists' flowers— TheHoliyhoct ... 21 Fossil plants 29 Crardeners'Association. the British ... 25, 28 hardening papers, notes on English 25 Hardy plants- Gun n era srahramajor 18 Biglibiiry, Mr. Cliam- b(.'i"l;i ill's garden at ... ILawns. tlieuiauuringot' 17 Manchester Botanical Gardens 25 iMyrobalan Plum, the... 29 ^icotiana Sanderce x... 2^ I-ubbers, Louis 24 Obituary— Stirling, John R. ... 30 Wade, Arthur W. .-. 3u gleau- at tile de- Orchid notes and iugs- Odoutoglossunis Arddarrocii ... Orchid seedlings, raisiDg of Phylloxera eggs stroyed by lysol Plants, new or note- worthy— Malortiea Tuerck- heiniii Plant novelties in ]'.K)4 . Potato culture in Coru- Avall Rainfall at Rolhanisted during Ut04 Scientific Committee ... Societies- Gardeners' Debating. Horticultural Club ... Linnean Manchester &. North of Knglaud Orchid. National Sweet Pea... Koyal Horticultural 2S, Spi'aying, the import- ance of ... Stock-taking Week's Woi^. the— Flower garden, the... Fruits under glass ... Hardy fruit garden... Kitchen garden, the. Orchid-houses, the ... Plants under fiass ... Widdriugtouia Wliytei. Wiring walls lor fruit- tree training Woburu frait farm, the ILLUSTRATIONS. Apple, Fenu's Wonder 20 Currant-bud mite, shoots aflected with the 31 Cypripedium plants, three well-flowered 27 Pear Santa Claus 21 View in the recently-planted pleasure gardens at Highbury, Birmingham, the residence of the Right Hon. Joseph Chamberlain, M.P. (Supple- mentary IlJustration). VViddringtonia Whytei, adult and primordial forms of 18, 19 THE MANUEING OF LAWNS. Its Effect ix De.5troying Weeds 1^0 question is more fre'iuently asked than -^ ' ttiat involving the demand for informa- tion as to how to improve the grass of a tawn, of a tennis-court, or a golf-greon : how to get rid of moss, or to eradicate Plan- tains and Daisies : how, in fact, to obtain a smooth, elastic turf of grass instead of an ■exiguous and miscellaneous collection of weeds. There are various nostrums for the purpose, but the plain and simple recipe of (putting on manure nearly always meets with objections. People who load up their beds and borders with manure, though but a small crop be taken ofi every year, yet seem to suppose that a lawn mown once a s. week during the growing season will sup- port itself, and that the grass will be pro- duced out of nothing. In many of our fsuburban gardens also the lawn had a bad start, the thinnest of turf has been laid •over a mixture of harsh sulisoil and builder's (rubbish, all the good soil having been piled (up on the borders when it has not been sold to a neighbouring gardener. Yet still 4he prejudice against manure holds. "It 'will make the grass too coarse;" "It will ■bring too much Clover,' are the arguments. Instead, some magic liquid is sought which ■w.ill kill Daisies, Dandelions, and Plantains at a touch, and leave the grass to flourish iinharmed. Putting on one side the unlikelihood of ■ever obtaining rank grass on such a soil as lies 3>eneath the majority of our lawns or golf- greens, the mere fact of the constant cutting and rolling would previ^nt any of the coarser grasses from getting a foothold. The par- ticular plants we see in a piece of mixed herbage like a lawn represent the survivors of a great competitive struggle for existence in which only those plants persist that are adapted to their onvironmeot. And in this case the main factor in the environment is the recurrent rolling and close cutting. Grasses, like Cocksfoot or Meadow Foxtail, with an upright tufttd habit, are badly suited by the conditions and are easily sup- planted by seemingly much weaker creeping grasses, like the Poas or the dwarf Fescues. Plenty of manure and rich soil, so far from encouraging the big coarse grasses, really gives the finer ones a much better chance, for the coarse grasses have long, spreading roots which can range deep for their food, whereas the finer grasses are wholly dependent on the surface soil, and will quickly exhaust it should its richness not be maintained by manuring. But this thesis and the all-important question of the nature of the manure to be used can best be illustrated by an examination of the grass experimental plots at Rothamsted. [The results of the experiments made at Kothamsted were first published in the "Philosophical Transactions" of the Koyal Society, and were contributed by Dr. Gil- bert and Dr. Masters, a summary of which is published in Plant Life by the last-named writer." There, nearly fifty years ago, twenty plots, most of them half an acre in area, were marked out on the old grass-land of the park near the house, a particular scheme of manuring for each plot was adopted, which has been repeated year by year ever since with prac- tically no alterations. The effects of this long-continued manuring in particular direc- tions is now instantly visible in the class of herbage carried by each plot, and a walk by them in the springtime is pregnant ''f les- sons not only for the farmer and grazier, but for the gardener who has lawns and pad- docks to manage. The plots look as though they were strips of land transported from different counties, so varied is the vegetation they carry, one is all flowers, another is wholly dark green grass, a third seems to be all Clover, a fourth is white with the Parsley- like flower of the wild Cheivil, yet no seed has ever been sown, the differences have all arisen from the manuring. The Eothamsted plotsarelaidupforha.\ every year, and though at first sight this may seem to prevent one from deriving much information from them as to the management of lawns, it will soon be seeu that the same principles apply in one case as in the other. The plot to begin with is the one that has been without manure the whole time; the herbage is scanty, as might be expected, rarely much more,ithan ankle deep even at hay-time, but the fact that strikes one most is its varied composition. All sorts of flowering plants are to be seen ; Hawk- weeds, Ribwort Plantain, Hard-heads, Cow- slips, b'ealjious. Speedw ell, Bird's-foot Trefoil, catch the eye most prominently ; the grasses are poor and stunted, among them the pretty Quaking Grass (Iiri:,i media) is the most prominent. In winter time there is plenty of moss to lie seen all over the plot. A complete botanical analysis made in 1903 showed that only 't2 per cent, of the herbage by weight consisted of grasses, the Clovers and other leguminous plants made up S per cent., while the remaining 40 per cent, con- sisted of miscellaneous species or weeds. The variety of the vegetation is to be seen in the fact that forty-seven different species were identified in the herbage from this plot. Examine now, by way of contrast, some of the plots lower down the field which receive a complete manure containing nitro- gen, phosphates, and potash, but in which the nitrogen predominates. At once there is a big crop of strong-growing herbage, which has yielded on an average i!, •', and even 3i tons of hay per acre over the whole period of forty-seven years. But the cha- racter of the herbage has been even more strikingly altered than its amount ; the forty-seven species have been reduced to twenty, or indeed practically to four on the most heavily manured plot of all, and these species are all grasses — the Clovers and the weeds have been crowded out. If we turn to the plot on which, instead of nitrogen, a purely mineral manure containing only phosphates and potash is supplied, we see another great change; the Clovers predominate — red and white and the allied Jleadow Vetchling— and the grasses only occupy a subordinate position. In some seasons the leguminous plants will make up more than half of the herbage at haytime- On another plot we may see the effect of applying superphosphate and sulphate of ammonia without any potash ; we have an exclusively grassy herbage, with not a particle of Clover and very few weeds. The grasses also are all shallow-rooted kinds, more than half of the whole consists of Sheep's Fescue, Sweet Vernal (Jrass being also al>undant ; very much the kind of vege- tation, in fact, we want to see upon a lawn. The shallow-rooted nature of the f^rasses is due to the fact that the manures used are such as are arrested by the soil close to the surface, consequently the shallow - rooted species sain an advantage. It instead we employ nitrate of soda, which sinks down with the rain, deep rooted grasses like Soft Rrome grass are favoured and become prominent in the herbage. \\'ithout going into details we may draw the following lessons from the Rothamsted plots: — 1. Weeds, moss, and a varied herbage indicate poverty of the soil. In rich soil the grasses will crowd out everything else; in poor land the weeds can beat the grasses. ■I. Nitrogenous manures encourage the grasses and depress the Clovers. 3. Mineral manures and particularly potash encourage Clover and allied plants. 4. Of the nitrogenous substances ammo- niacal manures encourage shallow-rooting, nitrate of soda the deeper-rooting grasses. Let us apply these principles to practice. Lawns that are intended for use as tennis- lawns, bowling-greens, putting-greens, should be made up of grass only ; Clover wears too easily, gets slippery in the evening, has a different "pace," and is less true. Con- sequently manures containing much potash, or lime which acts as a lil>eriitor of potash in the soil, should be avoided. A mixture of superphosphate (three parts) and sulphate of ammonia (one part), at the rate of ', lb. per square yard, is about the best manure where tht" soil is loamy with a sufficiency of lime; but on thin sands and gravels, or on heavy sour clay, such a manure is rather too 18 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JJNTJAEY 14, 1B06. acid ; it is better then to use a good Peruvian guano, perhaps the best of all manures for producing fine grass, or a mixture of nitrogenous fish guano with some bone-meal. Soot also is good, but soot is a manure supplying nitrogen only, and must be accompanied by some phos- phate. Where tlie presence of Clover does not matter, as on lawns not used for games, the fairway of a golf-green, the outfielding of a cricket-field, a more general manure containing potash will grow a closer sward. A good all-round mixture should contain four or five per cent, of nitrogen, twenty of phosphates, and six to eight of potash ; this, at tiie rate of \ lb. per square yard, will grow excellent grass. Damp low-lying lawns, or putting-greens that are evidently sour and suffering from lack of lime, must be dressed with a little ground-lime or with basic slag, at the risk of encouraging a free growth of Clover for a season or two ; otherwise the sourness will spread, and the herbage will begin to die in patches ; the Clover that results may be troublesome at first, but will gradually give place to good grasses. So far we have spoken only of artificial manures, because they are most easy of application ; they only need to be sown early in the year (February is perhaps the best month), and allowed to wash in. But on many sandy and gravelly soils perhaps the best treatment is to cover the lawn late in the autumn with a good coating of well-rotted dung, best of all from an old Mushroom-bed, and leave it there to wash in until the grass begins to grow in the early spring, when it can be swept ofl. The grass benefits from the humus thus introduced, as well as from the more direct plant-food; the shelter also provided by the manure for the springing grass is valuable. In any case the great thing is to bear in mind that grass cannot be grown out of nothing ; it is only by growing a lot of grass and keeping it constantly cut close, that we can establish tlie mat of old roots under the sward, whicli gives on the one hand the delightful feeling of life and elasticity, and on the other the recuperative power after wear, cliaracteristic of the best turf. A. D. H., liothanisted. HARDY PLANTS. GUNNEEA SCABEA MAJOE. Pine as is a well-grown specimen of the typical Gimnera scabra, with its large and handsome rough leaves, quite tropical in their effect, it shrinks into comparative insignificance when seen alongside its descendant — G. scabra major. This is a truly noble plant, reminding one in its "rand dimensions of the magnificent Gunnera manicata, but with a rugged grandeur not possessed by G. manicata, though the latter is taller and makes a larger plant. This greater form of G. scabra originated, I believe, with Mr. T. Smith, of Daisy Hill Nursery, Newry, and as seen growing there it was remarkably fine. It is .an improvement upon the type, and well worthy of a place in the grounds of those who appreciate such striking plants. By a pond or in the wild garden by some moist spot it would be perfectly at home. It is, however, all the better for some shelter from strong winds, as one has seen the leaves of the typical plant, sturdy as they are, wrenched off by a severe gale when in a comparatively exposed position. S. Ainott. WIDDEINGTONIA WHYTEI. This tree, known in the vernacular as the Milanji Cypress, was originally found at an elevation of 10,000 feet, on Mount Milanji, in Njassaland (35°— 3G° E. long., 10° N. lat.), by Mr. Alexander Whyte. It was alluded to in the is remarkable for the varying forms of its foliage. Thus in the adult stage the leaves, are small, deltoid, and closely appressed to the branch ; other leaves are more elongate, linear- lanceolate, and spreading at the tips. In the seedling condition, and in what we may call the Eetinospora stage, the leaves are about 1 inch long, glaucous, distinctly linear, and spreading. Of such character were the leaves fiu-nished us by Mr. Medley Wood (see Gardeners' Chronicle^ August 18, 1894, p. 19), and from Kew (see Gar- deners' Chronicle, June 16, 1894, p. 746). See- fig. 7, B. Now Mr. Bartlett, of the Pencarrow Gardens, Cornwall, sends us specimens showing on the' same branchlet all three of the forms of leaves ■ i : ■:ii ' ,1/1 , I, ,, r ^^' Fig. 7. — widdringtonia whytei. A— Branch showins two forms of the adult foliage ; B— Showing the primordial Rctinospora^ lilic loaves. Tlic detached leaves of each form arc shown as.maguified 2 diameters. " 5^5eecies (see Gardeners^ Chronicle, March 21, 1003) tiave been planted out, and passed the last winter without injury. Mr. Bartlett's specimens also QGX^ac^iC S'iG. 9. — WIDDB.1NGTONIA : DIAGRAM OF SECTION OF LABGE LEAF, B, MORE HIGHLY MAGNIFIED. For references see fig. 8. showed the male catkins, which are as described foy Dr. Rendle. It may be added that a cross-section of a pri- faordial (Ketinospora-like) leaf (fig. 8) shows it to Pig. 10. — WIDDRINGTONIA : DIAGRAM OF SECTION OF SMALL-SIZED LEAF, t>e transversely oblong', rounded at the two estremi- tieSj with the midrib prominent on both surfaces. Beneath the outer skin or epidermis is a single layer of hypoderm or strengthening cells, s.t. ; the Qqqqqqdqdqd ■FlO. 11. — WIDDEINQTONIA: SECTION OF SMALLER LEAF, MAGNIFIED. The structure and references arc as iu fig. 8. ■oentral cylinder is elliptic, surrounded by a Ibundle-sheath or endoderui, and with a single fibro-vascular bundle, with the wood or xyleui, XT., aDiove. and the bast or phloem. Ph., lieneath. A solitary resin canal, r,<_'., traverses the cellular tissue of the leaf between the hypoderm and the central cylinder. The structure of the adult foliage is essentiall.y similar (figs. 10, 11). ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS. ODONTOGLOSSTJMS AT ARDDAEEOCH. I AH often told, " These erispums, as you call them, must be magnificent and far finer when they are at home on their native tree than in cultivation. Why do you not go out to South America to see them ? " I might induce a smile of incredulity on some faces if I replied, *' I can see them better grown under cultivation by going to Arddarroch." It will not make people smile when I teU them it is far easier to visit the plants there, but it would make them smile, with a good broad grin of satisfaction, did they have the good fortune to see the 300 plants in Mr. E. Brooman 'White's No. I. house, that have been grown there for periods of various duration extending to twenty and a half years, the oldest one having been piu'chased at Sir W. Marriott's sale. May 20, 1884. They are plants in pots ranging from 48's (5 inches) to many of 12 inches in diameter. The " specimens " are grand indeed, and have immense bulbs, some as large as Q inches high by 2i across the widest part, and 1| thick. There are dozens which carry four years' leaves most of them having two leaves to a bulb, and many have three ; and here and there you find a plant with five years' leaves, a rare occurrence in most collections an unknown one in a great many. These leaves are not puny and soft things of pale green, but are magnificent straps of foliage whose depth of colour leaves nothing to be desired. The "tipping of leaves" here is absent, and from what cause I shall hope to show later. One Odontoglossum Andersoni- anum has three spikes upon one giant bulb, one spike having seven branches, each spike being thicker than an ordinary lead-pencil. Being at a dull time of year there were few in bloom, but I have so often seen the greater portion of them that I can say without any exaggeration that sixteen blooms on a spike is a common occurrence, and I know of nineteen without a branch — blooms, too, of grand substance and variety, for no "poor var." is kept in No. I. The first idea that will occur to many people is possibly, " This is the result of some manuring." It is the result of absolutely no manuring of any sort whatever, either liquid or solid ; such treatment is neither allowed nor needed at Arddarroch. The compost that Mr. Perfect uses is peat, sphagnum, and Oak-leaves in equal thirds, chopped finely and mixed. The Oak-leaves are collected when they fall, and left heaped on the ground, being used as and when required, but not in a state of rottenness, when all nourishment has left them ; the sounder the leaf the more there is for the plant to feed upon. Bracken-roots are used for drainage, and then the plant is settled into the compost, the surface being of sphagnum. I do not say live sphagnum, for it does not die easily at Ardarroch. Plenty of air is given at all or any time, for it is never so cold that the plants may not have some with beneficial results. Watering is largely done by Nature here, for the position of the house is ideal. It is placed north and south, a span- roof, whose general dimensions are 40 by 10 by 9, with two side stages, under which are two stages of Loch Long finest gravel, the path being covered by a larger size of the same ; it contains three rows of 4-inch pipe on each side, has " Hit and Miss " side ventilators, also top ditto; spray pipes for use in hot weather are also in it and on the roof. The position, partly in the ground, is one of its great points. On one side is a bank 7 feet high, the south end being also " banked " by the continuation of the slope of the hill. In the house is a 14-feet well of beautiful mountain water, softer than most rain-water, and from the natural slope of the hill the water percolates under the house, thus continually maintaining a most advantageous moisture. Sphagnum grows all over the mountains around. Loch Long is 100 feet below, and the climate is perfect ; and above all Mr. Brooman White and his grower (Mr. Perfect) are always eager to take advantage of and utilise Nature's beneficent endowments. To enumerate and describe the other branches of Orchid cultiu'e may rest for another time ; it is enough to take Odontoglossums now, of which there are six houses more (and another building) full to repletion of unbloomed plants selected from all the best importations. This 25,000 plants should give some good results in blooming. Some exceedingly fine varieties should make their appearance, for if character means anything then the only question is time, which will bring its own reward that will be richly deserved, and hope unsparingly given. The plants I have described constitute a most beautiful houseful of Odontoglossums, the names of some of which ma form a fitting termination to this article : — 0. crispum Angela ATddarroch var. Aurora album niagnificum Eriu Gcraldine Mrs. Brooman White North Star Rosa Starlight Sunlight xanthotes White's var. AimCc Eileen Diana Peetersii Trianre Reiuc des Beiges Maria?. And a great many very fine erispums (rosy and un spotted) which are numbered, not named. Be B. Crawshay. O ■idersonianwn Arddarroch var. obstupefaciens O. RilckeHanum egregium (from " Tautz ' collection). Mrs. Brooman Wliite 0. Wilcfceanum White's var. splendens albeus 0. Hallii Cltarlesworthn loocliristiense Arddar- roch var. elegans PoUett's var. NEW OR NOTEWORTHY PLANTS. MALORTIEA TUEECKHEIMII, XJ. D. Amongst the dwarf Palms the genus Malortiea contains some noteworthy species. Some time ago I received from Guatemala a specimen of a new species of this genus, which is in more than one respect of great interest. This dwarf Palm has a height of about 10 inches, and bears upon its thin stems, which are only 1.^ lines in thickness, a crown of fifteen leaves, which more closely resemble those of a Geonoma than tliose of a Malortiea. Whilst the leaves of M. simplex and M. Koschnyana are of a bright green, those of M. Tuerckheimii are dull green. The blade of the leaf of the new species is traversed on each side of the midrib by nineteen veins, which are directed forward at an acute angle ; the blade itself is folded somewhat between the veins. But whilst the blade of the leaf in Geonoma is more or less bifid at the apex, in this species the apex is not bifid. It is cuneiform, about inches long and 2 inches broad. The petiole is short, about 1 inch long. The margin of the blade is orenate, the erenules diminishing in size upwards and being very regular. The plant was detected near Cob:in in Guatemala at an altitude of 4,500 feet above the sea-level by the German Consul Bai'on von Tuerckheim. The Central American States are perhaps the richest district in Palms of the globe. Certainly there are a great many Palms as yet unknown, and I have no doubt that among them are repre- sentatives of new genera. Importers of novelties might still find here a quantity of new and rare plants. Dr. Udo Dammer, Dahlem. 20 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jasuaky 14, 1905.. EXPERIMENTAL CULTIVATION; (Continued Jrom p. 398J Manures for SpecialCrops : Strawberries : — The results of manurial experiments with Straw- berries are often conflicting and puzzling, but the increased value of a larger or earlier crop is so considerable that they are worthy of all the attention which can be devoted to them. Though much work has been done there is ample room for further investigation, indeed some experi- ments should be repeated in other soils and situa- tions in order to test the conclusions arrived at. Experimenters are naturally always eager to start original lines of investigation, but quite as useful work might be done by following up what others have commenced when the work has been than the chemical composition as determined by ordinary analysis ; and this fact is being generally recognised in connection with other crops. KuNNEES IN Pots and Open Soil. As regards Strawberries, there is another variant which materially affects results, namely, the method and time of preparing the runners, for planting. I have seen as much difference between plants of the same variety layered into pots and those rooted in the open soil, as between two varieties differing in strength and productiveness. The difference is sometimes observable for several years, and is quite as marked as that which follows extremes of manu- rial treatment. If experimental plots are made up of plants which differ so much at the start, it is not surprising that the results are divergent. glaring sun in a'dry soil, and with the aid of the water-can to^ikeep the plants from perishing, a serious difference may be expected in the behaviour of .the plants. These are not imaginary difficulties, for I have known cases [where cultivators inexperienced in experimental ' work have conducted trials of Strawberries, both for manurial tests and other objects, without due attention being paid to such initial differences, and with consequent confusion of the issues. In experiments organised and conducted by myself, I have always preferred to rely upon Strawberry- runners layered in the open soil at the earliest possible time after fruit-gathering, and planted-out under the best weather con- ditions. Besides this, the plants should be Fig. 12. — new culinary apple "fenn's wondeb," Whicli obtained an Award of Merit at the Royal Horticultural Society's mestiog on Januaiy 3, beinp; shown by the Earl of Stradbroko (gr., Mr. T. Simpson) (Sec also report of the nieetiiig on p. 16 of our last issue.) performed in a systematic manner, and the records of results are at command. The more frequently a well-designed experiment in culti- vation can be repeated, the more valuable do the observations become, and the greater the proba- bility of arriving at reliable averages, with the elimination of errors due to local conditions. With Strawberries such repetition is especially necessary, for the varieties are numerous, and these behave differently in varied soils and posi- tions, the consequence being that records are often divergent or even contradictory. My own experiments in the manuring of Strawberries were commenced about sixteen years ago, and I have had the opportunity of studying the matter on five widely different soils. The work of others in a similar direction has also received close attention, but we have still much to do before any conclusive results of general applica- tion can be recorded. The physical condition of the soil has more influence on the variable results Again, the earliness of rooting the runners has a bearing upon the matter, for the early, strongly- rooted plants will be in a different state from those obtained late in summer, and possibly weak or stunted. This will to some extent influence the after behaviour of the plants whatever their manurial treatment may be, and is a source of error in t'je conclusions if plantations are formed indiscriminately of both. Planting. A point requiring attention also is the con- dition of the soil and the nature of the weather at the time of placing-out the runners in the plots. If in one portion of an experi- ment Strawberries are planted in soil moist with warm rain, and the weather is dull for a few days afterwards, these plants have all in their favour for healthy progress; but if from any cause it is impossible to complete the planting under these conditions, and it is finished under a assorted and equalised as far as possible by re- jecting the weaklings ; and it simplifies th& work if only one variety be taken at a time until some general results are obtained, when & collection can be tried. Stable Manure v. Artificial Manures. The principal practical object in manurial ex- periments with Strawberries is to ascertain whether the large amounts of stable or farmyard- manure can be profitably reduced or dispensed with by the addition or substitution of chemical or artificial compounds. Where stable manure, has to be purchased at a cost of £9 to ^612 per acre, the prospects of the grower in a bad season are not encouraging. But under the best condi- tions the expense is a heavy one, and if that could be reduced by half on an area of 100 acres, it would mean a substantial addition to tho grower's income. The comparison of heavy and light dressings January 14, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 21 of manure have therefore taken this form, the amounts given being per acre : — A. 33 tons of stable mauure, B. 20 tons of stable manure. c. ,, ,, plus phosphates and potash, D. „ ,, ,, „ plus nitrate. E. Ui tons of stable manure. F. ,, ,, plus phosphates and potasli. fj, ,. „ ,, „ plus nitrate. H. No stable inanure, l:>ut phosphates and potash. I. ,, „ plus nitrate. The phosphates, potash, and nitrate are calcu- lated to supply the essentials of 10 tons of manure in c and d, of 20 tons in f and g, and of 30 tons in h and i, so that chemically all the plots are on an 'equal basis. From a scientific point of view it would be desirable to add to these a plot receiving no manure, but practically it is not essential, as growing Strawberries without manure can only give satisfactory results under exceptional circumstances in special soils As repeatedly stated the duplication of the plota is very desirable. Kesults. The chief object of these notes is to indicate the lines of experimental work, and the discussion of results would occupy too much space. But as indicating how greatly the soil characters affect such experiments, it may be briefly stated as three examples that in a very light soil I found the stable manure in the heavy dressing (a) gave considerably the best results, notwithstanding the extra cost. In a heavy soil d gave the most profitable returns, taking into consideration the expense, and in a medium fertile loam the advantage was slightly in favour of o. But it is not merely a question of total weight of crop, the actual money value depends mainly upon the size of the friiits and their earliness. Jn this matter I have never found artifi.cial manures alone give as satisfactory results as stable manure supple- mented by a complete mixture of minerals and nitrogenous substances in moderate quantities. Experience differs, and it must be stated that Dr. l)yer has deduced from his experiments that the addition of chemical manures to a light dressing of dung resulted in a marked and profit- able earliness. He has recorded that in l-SyS the variety President, " on the plot dressed only with light dung, gave the enormous crop of 4 tons 4 cwt. per acre. When this dressing was supple- mented by chemical fertilisers, including 2 cwf. of nitrate of soda, the total crop was only increased to 4 tons 7 cwt. per acre. But in the first few days of picking we gathered from the chemically manured plot nearly 700 lb. more fruit per acre than from the dunged plot, and during this time the market value of the fruit picked was at least twice that of the fruit picked during the suc- ceeding days." This is worthy of further exam- ination, and it is an example of how difficult it is to generalise in outdoor experiments, as the conclusions arrived at are not supported by my own observations. It must also be borne in mind that earliness alone is not sufficient, as it is possible to obtain an early crop of very small and almost worthless fruits, and the advanced "market price " would not avail for comparison in such a case, as I have proved by both growing and selling the crops. Potash Salts. A peculiar circumstance in the Hadlow experi- ments is that the use of potash salts for Straw- berries has been discontinued, because " in every case the potash plots were so markedly inferior in yield and the development of the plants appeared to be so unsatisfactory as compared with that of the plants on the non-potash plots, that we resolved to withhold potash salts in future." I have tried potash in various forms in conjunction with phosphates, but usually found that on heavy soils (such as that at Hadlow) the former was without any appreciable effect, and it was only when excessive quantities of kainit or muriate of potash were used that ill-effects were noted, and these then took the form of real injury to the plants. It would be interesting to know what form of potash was employed in the particular instance named by l>r. Dyer, as I have not observed any injury follow the use of sulphate of potash in ordinary dressings ; on the contrary, in medium and light soils, a distinct advantage has been gained. R, Lewis Castle. (To be contmued.) Hollyhock for more than half a century, and can well remember the seedlings sent to Scotland from the garden of Mr. Charles Baron, ' of Walden, a worthy shoemaker and keen florist. The Holljhock was his favourite flower, and tbe varieties produced flowers of small size, but up to tbe florists' standard of a high, perfect centre, although lacking in guard petal. Later, about 1854-5, a very fine set of seedlings was sent out from Paul's nurseries, Cheshunt, I ^well Fig. 13.— pear " santa claus." Said to liave been introduced from Belfiium thirty years ago. Recommended an Award of Merit when shown by Col. Brymer, M.P., at llie Royal Horticultural Society's Meeting on January 3. {Sec report on y. 16 of our last issue.) FLORISTS' FLOWERS. THE HULLYHOCK. I WAS pleased to read the remarks of " E. D." ontheHollyhockat p.llSof thelast volume. Itis a pity that this noble flower is not cultivated more extensively. Doubtles.s the fungoid diseasealluded to by " R. D." is greatly to blame for this neglect of one of the most noble of autumnal hardy garden flowers. It is easily i-aised from seed, and not only so, but the seedlings are as a rule but little inferior to the varieties from which the seed has been obtained, and some of them superior. I have been an admirer and cultivator of the remember how impatient we were to watch the unfolding of the blossoms ; no such flowers had been previously seen in Scotland. The finest of them were Beauty of Cheshunt (rosy- red). Glory of Cheshunt (yellow), Lizzy (peach colour). White Globe (the best white va- riety up to that time), Ac. Probably the raising and culture of Eoses was more attractive to the Cheshunt firm, and the stately Hollyhock was relegated to the background. At this time there was quite a different type of Hollyhock grown in Scotland, though the raisers of them were not much known ; but I well remember seeing both the types grown in Lord Eosslyn's garden at Dysart, in Fifeshire, under the care of ;22 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaby H, 1905. 'the late Mr. John Laing. This excellent cultivator , a,nd good florist conceived the idea of crossing the •two sections, the English type of medium size "with a high centre and scarcely any guard petal worth mentioning, and the Scotch with large flowers, as mnch across as a tea-saucer, and with ■a small centre, the guard petals an inch wide all round. It was a great treat to me to visit this garden, and to see Mr. Laing at work amongst liis flowers ; everything in the garden was well grown, but he surpassed everybody in HoUy- hooliE and Chrysanthemmus. Unfortunately he gave up his work at Dysart, and started a nursery .at Forest Hill in company with Downie and laird, of Edinburgh. Many splendid varieties •of Hollyhocks were raised at Forest Hill — none were better ; but imfortunately for the science of •horticulture a nurseryman must grow plants that •will pay, and probably owing to the Hollyhock not being a profltable plant to grow, or from the Tavages of disease, or both combined, Mr. Laing gave it up, and found Begonias and other things «nore siiitable. The fungoid disease and other pests may be successfully dealt with if taken in time. When "the Carnation-rust flrst appeared, the cultivators •of this charming flower were frightened out of their senses ; but we know now tliat it is not to he dreaded. Any collection can be cleaned how- ■ever bad it is by examining the plants once a week and carefully cutting off the diseased parts •and burning them. Some of the plants may look frightful scarecrows, with scarcely a bit of foliage left, but better no leaves at all than diseased ■ones. I have treated the Hollyhock fungus in -the same way, and with success. I bought a ■collection of what were supposed to be clean j)lants from Scotland when I came to Bookham, but I found they were not, and the leaves were badly attacked by the end of the 'flowering season. As soon as the flowers had passed away I cut down the stems as near to the surface of the ground as I could, cut off •every leaf, dug the plants up, and dipped all the parts that had been above ground in a solution -of soft-soapy water and sulphur. They were subsequently potted into 8-inch pots, and win- tered in a cold frame. One would have thought 'that this drastic treatment would have been •enough to get rid of the disease. The plants were put into a greenhouse to make growth ■early in the new year, and as soon as the growths were ready they were propagated, either by root- grafting or by cuttings, and the leaves were ■clean and healthy until they were planted out, but the disease appeared, and I kept it down by •cutting off the diseased leaves. It was of no use however, for within a short distance of my plants ■^vas a row of single varieties smothered with •disease. Here was my trouble. I could have •conquered the fungus, but I had no power to inter- fere with other people's gardens. If this or any •other very infectious disease in plants is to be •stamped out, it must be done on the same principle as hydrophobia was stamped out by 'muzzhng the dogs, or as swine fever or the murrain in cattle is stamped out. There are no •diseased Carnations near me, and I can easily keep my plants clean, and just as readily may the HoUyhock disease be stamped out in a country garden outside an infected zone. Eed-spider is troublesome in some gardens, but "it can easily be destroyed by syringing in the onorning or at night in hot weather. Propagation by seed is the easiest and a very .satisfactory way to grow Hollyhocks. The seed should be sown in May ; if it is sown earlier the plants are likely to make an attempt to flower in the autumn of the same year, and this is not •desirable. Old plants of the best-named varieties •are not hardy enough to stand some of our winters, but , unflowered seedlings seldom suffer. They can Ije planted v/here they are to flower in July or August at least a yard apart. They need rich well-manured soil, and a mulching of de- cayed manure on the surface is very desirable. The flowering of named varieties may be pro- longed by propagating plants from eyes which can be obtained from the lateral growths during summer ; these growths have generally more flower-buds than leaf-buds, but a few of the latter will be found at the base of the growths. These can be cut out, and planted in small flower- pots ; and if treated similarly to Vine-eyes, each one of them planted separately, and plunged in very gentle bottom -heat, or in a spent Cucumber-frame, they will succeed. When the young plants are well established repot them, and winter them in cold frames. Cuttings or root-grafts are struck in spring in a propagating- house ; they are plunged in bottom-heat, and if potted in fairly moist soil they should not receive any water until roots are formed. These will be the latest to flower. Jas. Douglas. The Week's Work. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By W. H. YouKG, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick WiGAN, Bart., Clare Lawn. East Sheen. S.W. Orchids Resting. — Most pseudo-bulbouG Orcliids are in a state of rest during winter, when the climatic conditions are most unfavourable. AVj- sence of light cannot be altogether remedied, but the glass can be kept clean to admit as much as is available. The enervating effects of the use of much fire-heat should be compen- sated bj judicious damping of the surfaces in the house and by ventilation, always refraining from employing more fire-heat than is necessary to maintain the desired temperature. The applica- tion of "water to the roots of the plants is probably the most difficult duty to fulfij,as so many things have to be considered, including the size of the receptacle, the nature of the potting material, the habit of plant, and the weather at the present time and in tbe immediate future. Deciduous Orchids will naturally need water less often than those having leaves, liut in neither should an unnatural degree of shrivelling be permitted, and the time to give water in sufficient quantity and no more is just when the older pseudo-bulbs ap- proach the shrivelled state. On no account should pseudo-bulbs made in the two previous seasons be allowed to shrivel, or the tips of the leaves may suffer. The above remarks apply more particu- larly to Cattleyas, Liplias, La?lio-Cattleyas, and Dendrobiums. In the case of Odontoglossums, Oncidiums, Vandas, Ac, one's judgment has to Vje guided more by intuition than by ocular observ- ance. If such plants as Vandas are kept too long without water loss of the lower leaves will follow, and again, if kept equally long in a wet state, the disease known as "' spot " may attack and disfigure them. A few days or even a week's drought will not affect large plants, but small plants having less potting material at their base may not remain absolutely dry for so long a time, and the giving of water to these is attended with less risk, as they sooner become dry again. A fine day should always be taken advantage of to examine each plant and supply water or not as may be judged to be desirable. During unfa- vourable weather aft'ord water in small quantities only to those that are on the verge of suffering from drought. Except in the case of some Cypri- pediums, it is best not to wet any of the leaves, because it might lodge in the sheathing-bracts and cause injury. All water used for api^lying to the roots of Orchids should be heated to the same temperature as that obtaining in the house. Immersion of the receiitacles to the surface of the potting material should not be practised during winter. Miscellaneous. — Inuring foggy weather less damping should be done bo that the atmosphere inside may become comparatively dry. The tem- perature should be well below the maximum though when the outside atmosphere is fairly mild, the set standard may be maintained. Dui'ing frosty weather, or when cold winds pre- vail, some kind of covering should be employed on those roofs easy of access, with the double purpose of conserving heat and preventing the formation of ice on the inside, tor this would afterwards melt and cause " drip " on the plants beneath. Flower-spikes will now be appearing on many Odontoglossums, so that means of captur- ing any slugs or snails present should be adopted. Nothing is so efficacious as seeking for th6m at night by the aid of a lamp when the weather is moist. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. H. Clakke. Gardener to Sir William Plowden, Astou Rowant, Oxon. Mulching. — Generally speaking, all newly planted trees should be mulched with long strawy litter. This is the more necessary in cold dis- tricts, so that the young roots which start growth in the spring and are very tender may not be killed by severe frost. Pruning Fruit-trees. — Complete the pruning of fruit-trees as early as possible, excepting Peach- trees and newly-planted trees of any variety. "When pruning, try to secure an equal balance of top growth and root-action. Cut out all useless shoots, so that one shoot when in foliage will not injure its neighbour by overcrowding. It must be borne in mind that all stone fruits dislike the use of the knife, especially the Apricot. Many growers treat Apricot-trees too generously, plant them in too rich a soil, thereby causing them to make strong soft growth ; subsequently these growths are pruned hard back, and "gumming" is the result, or worse still a branch dies, and finally the tree also. Plenty of broken bricks, mortar rubble, and old plaster should be incorporated with the soil when planting Apricot trees, and they will then be likely to produce firm, short- jointed wood. It is best to prune Apricots in the autumn directly the leaves turn colour or fall ; then the cuts will partially heal over before the sap descends. If the slioots were pinched back in summer to the fifth leaf they can now be shortened back, leaving two or three buds, and the extending shoots, which have still some amount of wall space to cover, should have one- third of their length removed. In the case of old trees whose spurs have become of some con- siderable length, and whose flowers do not have the same amount of protection as those near to the wall, they should be shortened back where possible to a growing shoot, failing this, a dor- mant bud, which will eventually furnish a growth. This rejuvenation of the spurs should be done gradually, employing a period of two or more years for each tree. Apricots may be grown successfully on low walls, training-in each season new shoots, and removing a corresponding number, but always avoiding overcrowding. The foregoing remarks apply equally well to Plum, Sweet Cherry, and Pear-trees trained in the shape of fans. Where young fan-trained trees are making strong growths 3 to 4 feet in length, it is imperative that these should be shortened by one half, always selecting a well-placed bud at the end of each shoot. A portion of the resulting shoots will be required for extending and fur- nishing the wall. In the case of ti'ees with horizontal branches prune back the leading shoot to 12 inches, leaving a good growth bud at the top and one on either side for furnishing the next pair of branches. The leading shoots on other parts of the tree shoiild not be pruned very severely, the object being to obtain fruit-spurs from the dormant buds rather than new growths. In all cases remove the fruit-trees entirely from the walls, destroying all the old shreds and ties. Where there is any evidence of scale or other insect-pests, wash the trees with Gishuret compound, using a partially worn painter's brush. Any holes in the brick- work where insects may hibernate should be stopped with cement. All walls should be wired where practicable ; the initial cost is V>ut small compared with tbe labour saved in tying and cleansing the trees, besides which leaf, branch, and fruit get a freer circulation of air round them. AVhere buttresses make it somewhat Jajjuary 14, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 23 awkward to wire walls, instead of straining wires 6ver these, cut out joints between the bricks by means of an old rough saw, to allow the wires a free course, afterwards " pointing " the buttresses with cement. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By W. Fyfe, Gardener to Lady VVantaoe, Lockinge Park, Wantage, Seakale. — -The crowns should now be lifted and stored in the open ground with ea,ch crown standing in a perpendicular position, and covered with soil to their full depth, adding any light material as a protection over the whole. The thongs should be cut in lengths of 5 inches, with the cut at the lower end slanting, tied in bundles of 50, and plunged in the soil to keep them from shrinking. We grow this vegetaVjle on the same ground with success for a number of years, but deep cultivation must be practised. Rich manure is seldom required and salt I do not use or recommend. Crowns of moderate siie produce the best flavoured Seakale. To keep up a constant supply place the necessary number of crowns in heat every ten days. Put them in any place of darkness containing a flow-and-return hot water- pipe, and cover the crowns standing perpen- dicularly with screened leaf-soil to the depth of 4, 5 or G inches, whichever length should be preferred. Keep the material damp, and as soon as the tips of the Kale appear above the soil cut them with about 1 inch of the old crown attached. French Beans. — Veitch's Early Favourite is a suitable variety for sowing at this season. The seeds should be sown in pots 7 inches in diameter, using plenty of drainage material and a soil composed of light loam, mixing with it a little dry stable manure. The seed should be planted about an inch deep. Only sufficient space need be left in the pot for watering purposes. This plan is preferable to the practice of adding new soil to the plants as growth develops. The soil when sowing should be in a moist condition so that water will not be needed until the seedlings appear. In establishments where sufficient space can be provided the climbing varieties of French Beans give very satisfactory returns if cultivated in boxes. A temperature of od" to 60° is sufficient. Hot Beds. — Attention must now be directed to the formation of new and the re-lining, as the material settles down, of previously formed hot- beds, upon which further remarks will be made next week. Horse-radish should be planted in a deep, rich, and well-drained soil that was well manured and trenched 2 feet in depth last season. The cuttings (12 inches in length) should be planted in rows 2 feet apart, allowing 1 foot between the plants in the row. Kemove all the side rootlets and eyes from the cuttings, and plant them in a slanting position, using a crowbar with which to make the holes ; this reduces the tendency of the roots to branch. Another system is to use single crown- buds with 2 or 3 inches of the stem attached. These may be dropped in holes 1 foot in depth made with the crowbar. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Dr. Corbet, Impney Hall Gardens, Droitwicli. Early F^gs reqvure much water at the roots and moistiu'e in tlie atmosphere, as they are subject to attacks from red spider, and atten- tion to this detail is a dominating factor in the work of successfully forcing them into , fruit. It may not be absohitely necessary when the earliest trees are grown in pots to plunge them in a steady bottom-heat of 75° to 80°, but where this can be given them so much the better, for under such conditions the atmospheric moisture can be more easily maintained when the weather pre- vents the syringe being freely used. The work of damping and syringing must not, however, be neglected, and the roots must be kept in a moist condition by applications of weak liquid-manure applied at a temperature of 80°. Trees started in November may now be afforded a night tempera- ture of C0°, and by day with sun-heat this may be increased to 75°, but a little air may be admitted in favourable weather when the temperature in the house has risen to 70°. Introduce later pot plants to warmth, or close houses containing trained trees, and afford them a night temperature of 50° to 55°. Have all the woodwork and glass in later houses cleaned ; afford top-dressings to the trees, and make all ready for starting, but do not re-pot any of the trees at this season, rather give rich top-dressings of good loam, mortar rubble, wood-ashes, and bone-meal, the compost being made very firm. Friutmrj Pines. — Oet the Pine stove in readiness for the earliest plants of the Queen variety by thoroughly cleansing the woodwork and white- washing the walls. An early start must be made in order to obtain ripe fruits in May and June. Put fresh leaves or tan into the pit, and allow it to settle down before plunging the pots into this material. The bottom-heat should range from 85° to 90°, and when it has fallen to 90° the pots may safely be plunged. Some judgment is necessary in selecting the plants for forcing. Choose those having the thickest stems and a number of small leaves in the centre, as these are generally most likely to show fruit before making fresh growth. Remove a few of the lower leaves from the stems and any loose soil from the roots, then afford the plants a top- dressing with rough fibrous loam, with a little bone-meal and soot added, firmly ramming this round the collars of the plants. Plunge the pots 2 feet apart, and if the bottom-heat is under control and not allowed to exceed 90° the pots may be plunged to the rims and the material pressed closely round, but if the heat is likely to rise much higher the pots must be plunged loosely tintil the heat becomes less. The plants having been rested, and the roots kept dry for a time, a thorough application of clear water must be given at a temperature of 80°. Cover up the pits at night in order to economise fire-heat and preserve moisture. A temperature of 65° at night, and 80° by day with sun-heat, with a little air for a short time at 75°, will be sufficient to commence with. Keep the evaporating-pans on the hot- water-pipes filled with water, and provide additional atmo- spheric moisture by occasionally damping the paths and all available spaces in the houses. Plants for Succession will require to be kept for some time yet in a bottom-heat of 70° to 75°, and an atmospheric temperature at night of 58° to 60°. Do not allow the plants to become dry at the roots, and exercise special care in respect to those that are plunged near to the hot-water-pipes, as these are more likely to suffer from drought. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By W. A. MiLLEK, Gardener to Lord Henry C. "bentinck, M.P., Uuderley Hall, Westmoreland. Herbaceous Border. — In choosing the position for making a border of herbaceous plants, several conditions must be given consideration. There must be a good background, some shelter from pre- vailing winds, but nothing that will shade the plants from the sun, or big trees whose roots would rob the soil of its richness. It should not be too near to the residence, but he used as a connecting link between the useful and orna- mental departments, or in front of a shrubbery having a serpentine foreground. Such a border loses half its charms if planned with mathe- matical precision. Having settled the situation and the width of the border, which may vary from 3 to 8 yards or so, commence to trench the ground at one end, working into the staple soil quantities of manure, leaf-soil, loam, old potting- soil, and vegetable refuse, making when finished a border 2 to 3 feet deep. This will deplete the store of compost, but the gardener must console himself with the old adage that " it is not lost what a friend gets." I strongly advise having a border for producing tllect in spring and early sttmmer, and another for effect in late summer and autumn. Many bulbs and strong-growing perennial flowering 2>lants being more sitited for the wild garden may be omitted when planting these borders. For a border intended to be at its best in the latter part of July and onwards, it is advisable to employ the choicest plants only. Avoid planting one variety at recm-ring intervals, but have prominent speci- mens standing out, then bays of pleasing com- binations of foliage and colour, irregular shaped masses of one kind dovetailed into another. Let there be no overcrowding, but a circumspect- ness that can only be obtained by a knowledge of the plants, and practice. The background can be made to add lustre to the flowering plants by planting in it trees of distinct and effective colours, such as Pinus koraiensis, Cupressus Triumph of Boskoop, C. Lawsoniana var. AUumi^ Salix regalis, Prunus Pissardi, Populus auiea. Yews, Hollies, &c. Bosary. — Prune and tie in hardy Roses on. bowers, pillars, and pergolas. These are generally of the Ayrshire Rambler and Wichuriana types. Cut out all stunted and weak growths, and tie in the remaining growths f > ins. apart. This pruning will cause the bowers to have a naked appearance, but the plants wiU flower more profusely for it in summer. Amongst the best of the rambling, trailing, and climbing varieties are Turner's Crimson Rambler, Dorothy Perkins, Auguste, and Alberic Barbier, Fran5,ois Foucard, Rene Andry, one of the very best, and Elisa Eobichon. Protect tender varieties with bracken and Fir branches. Propagating Department. — Peruse the seed catalogues, and send your order early. Obtain, stocks of pots and sundries. Prepare the propa- gating-house by getting ready a good hot-bed in addition to the hot-water-pipes. Induce stock plants of Heliotrope, Tropaeolura, Lobelia erinus vars., Ageratum, Verbenas, and Ag,atha;a ccelestis. to make growth. Sow seeds of Begonias in pans,, covering them with a sheet of glass till germina- tion has taken place. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By A. Bullock, Gardener to E. J. Wvthes, Esq., Copped Hall, Epping, Essex. Conservatory or Coolhousc, with Flowering Plants. — Keep this structure as bright and gay as possible. The recent fog has had a l>ad effect on many plants that would otherwise have done service for a considerable time. Defects must be mad© good. Admit air carefully, but lose no oppor- timity of doing so on all favourable occasions. See that the creepers on the building are tied neatly together, and let tidiness generally be a. feature. Plants for Early Forcing that were potted and plunged in ashes some time ago will on being placed in heat commence to grow readily. Amongst the most useful are Spira;a Thunbergii and S. confusa, Staphylea colehica. Lilac Charles X., Madame Lemoine, and Yiburnum plicatum. Azaleas, whose buds are plump and prominent, may be put in the forcing-house, and be syringed, frequently. Batches of the earliest Tulips and Narcissus should from time to time be placed in heat to produce a succession of flowejs according- to requirements. Hippeastrums (Amaryllis). — Flowering bulbs that were well ripened and have rested should be examined, and any that are showing their flower- sheaths should be turned out of their pots, the soil carefully removed from the bttlbs, and the^ bulbs repotted. A compost consisting of three parts good turfy loam, one part of decayed leaf- soil, one part of broken lime-rubble, and a 6-inch- potful of Thomson's " Plant Manure " to each barrowload of the compost, together with sufficient- silver sand to keep the whole porous, will be suitable. The plants shoidd be placed in a stove tempera- ture if early flowers are wanted ; they may be. syringed lightly, but not watered until root action has commenced. Seeds also may now b& sown thinly in pans or pots, and lightly covered with finely sifted potting soil. If the soil is watered before the seeds are sown, no more water- should be required until the seeds have germmated. Place a sheet of glass over the pots to prevent- drip or insects from disturbing them, and plunge- the pots to the rim in a mild bottom-heat. Qloxinias. — For an early batch a few of the- corms which show signs of activity may be repotted. Reduce the old ball of soil by means of a sharp pointed stick, and put them into pots according to the size of the corms. using a com- post of turfy peat and loam in equal proportions,, with a little silver-sand. The soil should be moderately moist when used, and no water will then be required until a good start into growth has been made. Syringe the plants overhead in- favourable weather. Cinerarias, Primulas, iti"- — Kemove any decayed foliage on plants in cold frames, and allow a circulation of air to pass between them on aU favourable occasions. 24 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januakt H, 1905. EDITORIAL NOTICES, ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 4t, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C Letters for Publication, as well as speeimejis and plants for naming, should he addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Welllngfton Street, Covent Garden, London. Comniunications should he wbitten on one side onlt OF THB PAPEB, seiit as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be printed, hut kept as a guarantee of good faith. Special Notice to Correspondents. — The Editor does not undertake to pay for any contributions ar illustrations, or to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself re- sponsible for any opinions expressed hy his correspondents. APPOINTMEHTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. (British Gardeners' Association Meeting at Caixlil!'. BirmiDgliam and Mid. Counties «.uj>i.a.i, ji». IO-, Gardeners' Mutual Improve- I niont Association Annual V Meeting. \VTi-nNTr«nAV Tix' ,a( Brixton. SIreatham and Clap- W EDNESDAY, JA^. is^ jij^jj^ j,,^j.j gjjp j^^^ Meeting Linnean Soc. Meet. Gard. Roy. Ben. Inst. Ann. Meet, and THUKSDAY, Jan. 19 Elect, of Pensioners at Covent Garden Hotel, at 3 p.m. ; Ann. J?'riendly Supper atti p.m. BALES FOR THE WEEK. MONDAY, .Tanuary Hi- Hardy Border Plants, Gladiolus, .Spiraeas, Jcc, at 67 and 6rf, Ciieapside, by Protlieroe & Morris, at 12. WEDNESDAY, January 18- Azaleas, Asiiidistras, ifcc, from Belgium ; Roses, Carnations, &c., at Protlieroe & Morris' rooms, at 12. FRIDAY, January 20— Greenhouse Plants, Iris, Hollyhocks, Ac, at 67 and 68 Cbeapside, E.G., at 12 o'clock, by Protheroe & Morris.— Great sale of Orchids, by order of Messrs. Sander & Sons, at Protheroe & Morris's Rooms, at 12.3J. For further particulars see our Advertisement columns.) AvEBAGE Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick -36'9'. Actual Temperatures :— LoviDOS.— Wcdiicsda!/, J'uniani l\ (6 P.M.): Max. 49''; Min. 11". Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London. — Tliursdat/. Jon. 12 (10 A.M.) : Bar., .'lu 1 ; Temn., W. Weather- moderate dcLrree of sunshine. Paovitic«s.— Wednesday, Jan. 11 (6 p.m.): Mai. 4S', Dover ; Min. 44'. North of Ireland, Spraying. _^ . _^ The value of spraying as a means of caecking fungous and ance of . , ^ ^ ° . insect pests on crops is now widely acknowledged, and the Cornell University (Ithaca, X.Y.) has lately published Bulletins dealing with the subject. The following general directions are as applicable in our orchards and gardens as they are in America : — " It should be remembered that in all cases suc- cess is dependent on the exercise of proper judg- ment in making applications. Prevention in the case of fungous diseases should be the watch- word. Plant diseases are rarely cured, but they can frequently be prevented. Know the enemy to be destroyed, know the remedies that are most effective, and apply at the proper season. Be prompt, thoroagli, and persistent. Knowledge and good judgment are more necessary to success than any defiaite rules. Spraying is an insurance. Spraying is no longer an experiment. It is an accepted practice, as tillage, prtming, and fertilizing are. It may not be necessary to spray every year, but the farmer should be prepared to spray every year. In case of doubt spray. See that pumps and rigs are in working order before ploughing time comes. Order yovtr materials, ' Be ready.' There is no one best pump or nozzle. There are best devices for particular kinds of work, depending on the size of the plants to be sprayed, the kind of spray to be used, the extent of the operations. Get a good pump, one that works easily and smoothly, and is strong enough to make a fine spray when two lines of hose and four nozzles are used, if it is designed for field work ; it is economy in the end. Look over the horticultural papers for advertisements of spraying outfits, and write for circulars. Power pumps are becoming more popular each year." As regards spraying for wild Mustard (Charlock), Mr. J. L. Stone remarks that: — " "Wild Mustard growing "with Cereals or Peas can be destroyed Avith a solution of copper sulphate, without injury to the crop. A 3-per- cent, solution (about 10 lb. to the barrel, or 40 gallons of water), at the rate of 40 to 50 gallons per acre, gives very satisfactory results." Mr. John Craig contributes to the Bulletins information concerning dust or dry powder sprays, and remarks that: — " The labour and expense of applying dust sprays appear to be less than for sprays in liquid form. Six applications of dust spray were practically not more effective on Apples than two applications of Bordeaux-mixture, nor did they cost moro. Dust or powder sprays should be applied in the early morning or late afternoon. Damp, not wet, conditions of atmosphere and of the tree are desirable, if not essential. The powder must be strictly dry. Thoroughness of application is as necessary as with Bordeaux- mixture. Finally, it does not seem that, at the present time, there is any good reason why an orchardist who has reasonably level groimd and available water supply, and who is equipped with pumps for the application of liquid spray, should discard these, or even introduce the dry spray method. Under special conditions it certainly has advantages, but the conditions demanding the employment of dry sprays are usually lacking in the fruit districts of New York." Mr. CHAMBERLAIN'S GARDEN (see Supple- mentary Illustration). — In our issues for Novem- ber 2G and December 3, 1904, we published several very interesting views of Mr. Chamberlain's garden at Highbury, near Birmingham. As a Supplement to this present issue a further picture is given from the same garden, illus- trating the new part of the pleasure-grounds, which has been planted with an exceedingly choice collection of trees and shrubs. It will be seen that the planting has been done in a very informal manner, but each species has been given a position either of isolation or of associa- tion with others as was best suited to its charac- teristics. The surface of the ground throughout this part of the gu'deii is covered with grass, which is mown occasionally with scythes ; and winding, grass-covered paths, kept closely mown with machines, serve to guide one through the miscellaneous assortment of beds and isolated specimens of trees and shrubs. The effect is good, and upon a cursory glance at the picture we might imagine the view to be one in the Royal Gardens at Kew. Eucalyptus.— The fifth part of Mr. Maiden's Critical Revision contains descriptions and illus- trations of E. steUulata, E, coriacea and E. coccifera, the latter a Tasmanian species, which has proved h.ardy in some parts of southern England. Linnean Societt . — The next general meeting of the Society will be held on Thursday, January 10, 1905, at 8 p.m. Exhibition : Kev. T. E. E. Stebbing, M.A., P.E.S., Sec. L.S.— Speci- mens of notable and little-known Crustaceans, chiefly exotic. Discourse: Dr, A. Hbnkt, P.L.S. — Botanical collecting. Paper : Dr. W. G, Eide- wooD, F.L.S. — " On the Cranial Osteology of the Families Osteoglossidie, Pantodontidie, and Phractolcemida;." " Kew Guild Journal." — We are requested to state that in compliance with numerous requests by those interested in Kew and Kewites, a few copies of the Journal are this year available for purchase by non-members of the Guild, Applications for copies should be made to the Secretary (W. N. 'Winn), Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Price Is. per copy ; by post. Is, 2d. The Holland House Show.— We greatly regret to hear, from an official source, that there will be no exhibition of the Royal Horticultural Society in Holland Park in the ensuing summer. Phylloxera.— M. G. Cantin reports to the Academy of Sciences, Paris, that lysol is de- structive to the winter egg of the Phylloxera. The cuttings of the Vine were steeped before planting in a one-per-cent. solution of lysol. In spring, before the pruning is done, the Vine is sprayed with lysolated water at the strength of 4 per cent. " The Antiquary." — For twenty-five years this magazine has faithfully chronicled the pro- gress of archffiological research, and has critically reviewed the antiquarian work of the time. With the present year the Antiijuary appears in slightly different guise, the first number of a new series being in a newly designed cover, and containing an additional sheet of eight pages. We hope our contemporary will still continue to increase in popularity, of which this commencement gives good promise. It is published by Elliot Stock, Paternoster Row. VlLMORiN Memorial. — The total amount received now amounts to 30,439fr. (=JE1,217 + ), contributed by 2,710 subscribers. Mr. Haket Vkitch has forwarded £5, which will be included in the next list. A large proportion of the subscribers hail from the United States. Woburn Fruit Farm, — The fourth report of the proceedings at the Duke of Bedford's fruit farm at Eidgmont, near Woburn, has been published by Etbe & Spottiswoodb. It deals with the physical and chemical characters of the soil and then records the results of the manurial experiments on Strawberries, Gooseberries, Cur- rants, Raspberries and Apples. It is very curious to note that whilst in other crops manure, whether natural or artificial, produced an increase, no such increase is observable in the case of Apples. In a future issue we hope to reproduce some portion of this interesting report, the results in which show more conclusively than ever the necessity for the grower to undertake experiments on his own soil during a period of several years. The experiments need not be either extensive or elaborate, but the results would be more valuable in practice than any obtained elsewhere under different conditions. NiOOTIANA Sander/e.— This hybrid between N. aflinis and N. Forgetiana has conquered the horticultural world. It has been figured in our own columns, in Flora and Sylva, in the last issue of The Garden, and in the Revue Horticole, and we know not what other periodicals. From what ■we saw of it on a large scale at Bruges last autumn we are decidedly of opinion that its reputation is not greater than its merits demand. There are many colour variations not yet in com- merce. It is a half-hardy annual, which may be treated like the China Aster. Louis Lubbers. — We regret to have to announce the death of this gentleman, who was known to many of our readers as the former Curator of the Brussels Botanic Garden, and a regular attendant at the principal horticultural meetings in Belgium, M, Lubbers was in the seventy-third year of his age, and had been the recipient of many honours. jASUATtT 14, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 25 MANCHESTER BOTANICAL GARDENS.— The Ifcfllowing is an extract from the Mancheiter Evening i\«ws for January 5:— "A deputation headed by Mr. John Bowden, Treasurer of the Koyal Botanical and Horticultural Society of .Manchester, and Mr. Alderman Gibson, waited ■upon the Lord Mayor of Manchester to-day with an ofler to hand over the Botanical Gardens at Old Tratford to the city on the understanding that the obligations at present incxirred by the uianagement would be met. The Lokd Matob while viewing the proposal with favour, was not, of course, in a position to make a definite reply fcut he promised that he would report to the proper quarter. He thought the Council would be ■pleased to secure at a nominal price an open space ■of such grea-t value and beauty. The alternative, he understood, was that the estate wouldgointo the hands of the builders, as, owing to the changed condition of the neighbourhood, it was no longer possible to maintain the gardens without financial •loss. Time was when the Botanical Gardens at i/C)ld Trafford were among the most popular, as they were in many respects the most beautiful of the resortsof Manchester, Lancashire, and Cheshire people. An older generation will remember the crowds that were in the habit of flocking to the famous flower shows that were held from time to <;ime. No more charming gatherings were held i;hroughout the year. Their fame spread through- out the North of England. Then the famous -Jubilee Exhibition was built round the gardens, •of which the gardens themselves were the gem, the haunt every day in the week and every evening of thousands of delighted citizens. For many years it has been apparent that the gardens, •on their old basis, could not be continued. Money was loct every year, largely owing to the changes '■in the Old Trafford district from the residential point of view. Not long ago there was a feeling i^hat the Stretford Urban District Council should --acquire the gardens, but a poll of the ratepayers being taken on the question, the majority voted .against the project. The gardens, it will be iremembered, are a mile beyond the city boundary. Grafting Chrysanthemums. — In the Revue Horticole M. Gaston Clement recommends that cnotch-grafting should be practised on C'brys- .-anthemum frutescens, especially the varieties known as Countess of Chambord and Golden Star •(Etoile d'Or). The most favourable season for the operation is from February to April. The grafted stocks are kept in a propagating-frame '■for about three weeks, and then gradually "hardened- off. A Famous Camellia Tree.— The famous •Camellia tree, well known to tourists, in the hot- ■house of the English garden of PiUnitz Castle, near Dresden, is reported to have been seriously damaged by fire. The tree is 27 feet high, 300 years old, and was originally brought from Japan. Jt was presented by the Empress Anne of ■ Russia to the Elector Frederick Augustus II. in 1739. The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent In- -STITUTION. — We would remind our readers that •the sixty-sixth ^\.nnual General Meeting of the members and subscribers of this Institution wiU be held at the Covent Garden Hotel, Southampton Street, Strand, London, W.C. (adjoining Covent Garden Market), on Thursday, J.anuary lt1, 1905, at 3 P.M., for the purpose of receiving the report Of the Committee and the accounts of the Insti- tution (as audited) for the year 1901 ; electing officers for the year 1905 ; and for the election of -eighteen pensioners on the funds. The chair will he taken by Haeet J. Veitch, Esq., Treasurer and Chairman of Committee. The ,poll will open at S.l.j o'clock, and close at ■4.30 o'clock precisely, after which hour no voting ipapers can be received. The annual Friendly Supper will be held at the same place .qfter the Annual Meeting at G p.m , when Edward Sheewood, Esq., will presidn, STOCK-TAKING: 1904.— It will be necessary to give a very brief synopsis of the Trade and Navigation Eeturns for the month of December, before setting forth in brit-f review the total record for the year 190i. The imports for De- cember are valued at .£52,S4.:,36(;, which, com- pared with the same period of 1903 (£52,319,lilH). shows an increase of ^£525,7-18. The exports also show an increase— X2s,n72,134, as against .£24,012,503 for the sime period in the pre- ceding year — an increase of £3, 459, 031. By the way, it may be worth noting here that among the latest arrivals of fruit in December were two consignments of Peaches from the Cape, some sixty packages in all. We come now to the year's over-sea trade, which fi(^ures for the enormous sum of .£852,180,021. If this be compared with the figures for 1903 (£833,400,397), an increase of ^£18,779,624 will be seen. To distinguish : the imports value for last year was £551,302,124; for 1903, £542,000. 289— an increase of £8,761,835. As to ESPOETS, the figures for last year were £300,817,897 ; for 1903, £290,800,108— an increase of £10,017,789. The summary section of the Eeturns has all its wonted value. It is as follows : — IMPORTS. 1903. 1904. Difference. Articles of food aud drink— duty . free £ 1H,0S3.078 112,098,7'17 — l,9iU,g.31 Articles of food & driuk— dutiable 114,001,215 116,168,574 -f 1,167,359 All other Imports... 214,605,4196 224,094,803 -f9,£88,S07 Again, the value of the flowers, plants, &c., imported last j ear was £242,454; this compared with 1903 (£248,689) shows a decrease of £0,235. The following table of fruits and vegetables imported speaks for itself ; some of the figures are well worth noting : — Imports. 1903. 1904. Difference. Fruits, raw- Cwt. Cwt. Cwt. Apples 4,569,516 3,771,781 -797,76.T Apricots and Peaches 9,678 13,465 •f3,887 Bananas— bunches ... 3,087,616 3,910,611 -1-822,995 Cherries 110.192 260,830 -f 150,638 Currants 76,419 117,352 -H0,933 Gooseberries ... 34,312 f6,216 ■fl.903 Grapes 681,084 853,572 -fie9,4S8 Lemons 978,318 989,296 -f 10 978 Nuts— Almonds 167,156 153,015 —4,141 Others used as fruit 791,281 706,066 -85,216 Oranges 6,176,752 5,853,253 -.'!24,499 Pears k71,.51S 542,024 4-271,106 Plums 594,626 493,984 —100,642 Strawberries ... 32,6U 31,524 -f 1,880 Uoenumerated 688,873 664,766 -34,108 Vegetables. raw- Onions bush. 8,619,919 8,291,814 -328,105 Potatos cwt. 9,150,202 10,003,267 -f 853,065 Tomatos „ 1,071,927 1,134,697 4-62,770 Uncnumerated .. 396,764 467,491 -1-60,707 The value of the twelve months' imports of dried fruit was £1,849,083 ; for the preceding year, £2,116,717— a decrease of £267,034. The value of the timber of all descriptions brought to our ports last year was £15,505,625. Compared with the figures for 1903 (£18,192,519), this shows a decrease of £2,6.s6,894. The denuda- tion of some of the principal timber lands still continues, we believe ; aud as there are no nurseries the result may easily be foretold. A few words as to Exports. The total for the year is placed at £300,817,897 ; for 1903, £290,800,108 — an increase of £10.017,789. There is nothiug to be gained by endeavouring to account for this or that rise or fall — the figures must stand for themselves. NATIONAL Potato Society.- Arrangements are not concluded, but it is probable that the exhibition will be held on November 22 and 23 at the Eoyal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square. "Pigs for Profit." — This is No. 10 of The Pfolitable Farm and Garden Handbooks (.148 & 149, Aldersgate Street, E.C.), and should be consulted by everyone who keeps pigs or who proposes to do so. The instructions are plainly and simply written and the illustrations of samples of some of the best breeds give additional value. So useful an animal is the pig to large and small farmers that the least they can do is to learn how to keep the creature clean and comfortable. The British Gardeners' Association.— We ate informed that a meeting to consider the advisability of forming a local branch of the Association was held in the Cooperative Hall, Ipswich, on Wednesday, January 4, Mr. J Morgan, of the well-known firm of Thompson & MoRa.\N, presiding over a large and representa- tive gathering of local gardeners. In the course of his address, Mr. W. E. Close, a member of the Committee of Selection and a former resident in Ipswich, dwelt particularly upon the benefits which would result to employers from the estab- lishment of a reliable source for the supply of thoroughly competent and trustworthy gardeners. He strongly urged the establishment of a local branch, and asked all those who cared for the uplifting of their profession to at once become members. After a well-maintained discussion a resolution approving the programme of the Association and the formation of a local branch was carried unanimously. Mr. E. G. Creek, of Westerfield House Gardens, Ipswich, agreed to undertake the duties of local secretary. There was a Britisli Gardeners' Association meeting at Eeigate on January 10, and others will take place at Swansea, on Friday, 13th; at Cardiff, in the Town HaU, on Monday, 16th ; at Birmingham, on February 13 ; in the Isle of Wight on a date to be arranged, and at other places. Our Contemporaries. —The New Year's number of the " Gardeners' Magazine " is a special number, containing numerous illustra- tions, and a variety of information from grave to gay. Mr. Odell's article on Gourds should induce gardeners to grow these highly inte- resting plants. Mr. Gordon's article on the evolution of the Cabbage is very interesting as showing the plastic nature of Brassica oleracea. 'The Almanac reminds us in its first item that taxes are due — a painful if accurate beginning. Let us hope that the practical direc- tions which our contemporary gives may be the means of supplying a fund from which these painful though necessary requirements may be met. "The Garden," which now enters the ranks of the penny papers, has a good coloured illustration of Nicotiana Sandera', an almanac, and numerous illustrations. Prizes are offered by Mr. Gibbs to young gardeners for answers to certain questions relating to hardy trees and shrubs. "The Journal of Horticultuke " opens the New Year with a New Year's message from the veteran, " D. Deal." Amid other matter there is an interesting article on the vineyards near Montreux. The writer does not tell ua what 26' THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JASUAKY 14, 1903 number of francs be had to pay as a fine for looking at the Vines. Our own experience is that a fine, of small amount, it is true, is threatened for entering a vineyard, much more for touching a leaf. "The Gardener" is full of practical notes and varied information. We note articles on hardy trees and shrubs which indicate a desire *to bring under the notice of the public the great variety, interest, and beauty there is in these subjects. But the public is very capricious, and if the taste does not run in that direction, it is hard indeed to force it. The articles on Grape Culture, by Mr. TATLOR,"are of great interest. " Garden Life." — In this periodical, under the head of ''Gariiening Experiences," is an interesting letter from Captain Hancock, in which he records his experience with Solanum Commersoni, which he finds to bejimmune to disease, and to thrive in an actual swamp. " Amateur Gardening " h.is a coloured plate of Cypripedium insigne, and directions for ctilti- vating this popular Orchid. The contents are varied, and serviceable to amateur gardeners. "The Gardening World," now published at 2d., has a supplementary plate of the new Pillar Eose Maharajah. Articles, paper and print are alike good. " Gardening Illdstrated " is fiUed with matter specially interesting to amateurs, and its illustrations in the current number include good representations of Magnolia Lennei, Rose "Sul- phurea," and Gladiolus "Mrs. V. Field." The Answers to Correspondents occupy a considerable share of the available space. Apples. — So much interest has been excited in our Apple Census (see our volume for 1904) that we are induced to put the results in another form. It will be remembered that the 198 voters were distributed through every part of Great Britain and Ireland. They included not only gardeners, but nurserymen and growers of fruit for market, and therefore the conditions under which the trees are growing are very varied. Each voter naturally recorded his own indi- vidual impressions, and took into consideration not only flavour but cropping qualities, liability to canker, and suitability to local conditions and requirements. The total number of varieties mentioned was 89 in the case of kitchen Apples, and 102 in that of sorts grown for dessert. Of these, only the first six in each section were numerically important. There can, therefore, be no question as to the general opinion as to the merits of the twelve Apples mentioned. The others which were enumerated in our columns are evidently very good in some few places, but were a very long way behind the selected twelve in the opinion of the large majority of voters : — DESSERT APPLES. Cox's Orange about S2 per cent. King of the Pippins ... „ 64 „ Worcester Pearmain 51 ,, RlBSTON PlPPI.V 47 ^, Blenheim Pippin ... ,. .3,3 Irish Peach , 31 ,] The percentage of votes for all the other varieties was very much smaller. KITCHEN APPLES. Lane's Prince Aliiert... about 59 per cent. Warner's King ' ,, 55 „ Lord Suffield , 42 Ecklinville Seedling . ,, 41 ,, Bramlev's Seedling .3ti „ Du^iELOw'y Seedling .-. „ 31 ,, As in the case of dessert Apples, the percentage of yotes for the other varieties mentioned was very much less. A GARDENERS' Cbicket Club.— The annual supper and concert of the Anguloa Cricket Club, which was organised over twenty years ago, and consists entirely of employe's of Messrs. Sander & Sons, was held at the Crown Hotel, St. Albans, on Saturday, .Tanuary 7. During its history many gardeners throughout England have been associated with the club ; and the cricket clubs of Kew Gardens and of Messrs. Protheroe & Morris are its most formidable opponents. The chair was taken by Mr. F. K. Sander, and a pleasant evening resulted. The Hon. Secretary reported the club's finances as being most satis- factory, and showing a considerable improvement on those of previous years. THE EAINFALL AT ROTHAMSTED IN 1904. According to the records from the rain gauge at the Eothamsted Experimental Station, Hert- fordshire, constructed fifty-two years ago, and one-thousandth part of an acre in dimension, standing 2 feet above the surface of the ground, and being about 420 feet above sea-level, we find that the total rainfall for the year 1901 amounted to nearly 25 inches. This is 3 inches less than the average record for this district extending over the past fifty years, and 13| inches less than fell in the twelve months of the previous year. 1903. The following table shows the rainfall of each month for the past year at Eothamsted, with the averag3 amount of rainfall for each month of the previous fifty years, and the difference of 1904 above or below the average : — Rainfall at Rolhaimted, Herts, Jor each month of the year 1904, the Total .for the Year, the Average Xainjnll ofji/tii Years, 1853-1902, and|1904 above or below the average. Montlis. Rainfall, 1904. Average rainfall of fifty years. 1904. Above or below the average.* .Tanuary Inches. 3-60 Inches. 2-35 Inches. -1- 1-15 February 3-44 1-79 -f 1-65 March I'5& 1-78 — 0'20 April 1-25 1-86 — 0-61 May 315 2-23 — 0'08 ■Uine 0-81 2-31 — 1-50 July 2-92 2-65 + 0-31 August 215 2-85 — 0'60 September 1-60 2'50 — 0-90 October 1-37 3-09 — 1-72 November 1-67 2-58 — 0-91 December 2-48 2-31 28'00 -f 0-17 Yearly total ... 24-92 — 3-08 , " Tlie sign in the last column (-(-) signifies above the average, and the sign (-) below the average. The above figures show that the yearly total of rain, frost, and melted snow, of which latter there was but a very small quantity, in the past year amounts to 24-92 inches, against an average of 28 inches for the previous fifty years, showing a deficiency of a little more than 3 inches. As 1 inch depth of rain represents 101 tons of water on each acre of land, the results show that there is a deficiency of water amounting to 311 tons per acre to our underground water-supply. Leaving out the months of January and February, we find that the remaining ten months of the past year of 1904 show a deficiency of rainfall amounting to nearly (J inches, compared with the average of the past fifty years of these same months, which is equivalent to a loss of water on each acre of land in this district of 133,029 gallons. It is seen that the four months of January, February, July, and December have each given an excess of rain compared with the average, whUe the eight remaining months have each yielded a deficiency. So much depends in the realisation of the gardener's hopes upon the degree of humidity in the atmosphere, and the amount of moisture contained in the upper layers of the soil, that the rainfall of any particular period is necessarily a matter of much interest to the horticultural community. From the above figures it can be readily seen that 1904 was decidedly dry, and that the month of June gave IJ inch of rain! deficient, which is one-half the total deficiency of the year. An old adage says, " A dripping June puts all things in tune " ; the dryness, therefore, of the past month of June may perhaps account for the stagnation which occurred in the growtK of several of the outdoor crops at that period — in fact in many districts the crops did not appear to- recover their normal growth throughout the: season ; and the cereal crops, and more especially Wheat, was the worst that had been harvested: since the year 1879, although previous to the- month of June there was such a capital promise. Boot crops and Potatos also suft'ered consider- ably from the deficiency of rainfall during their- early growing period. Owing to the fact that there was a large excesB- of water in the soil remaining in the lower depths-. from the previous year's (1903) heavy records, which totalled up to nearly 38J inches, being- 10 inches in excess of the average yearly fall, the* deeply-rooting fruit trees and shrubs did not suffer from the 1904 drought, and the result was. an abundant crop of most kinds of fruit. J. J,. Willis, Uarpenden. BOOK NOTICE. "The Book of Topiary." Such is the rather awkward title of a little- book written by Mr.C. H. Curtis, of the '•Magadne,"' and Mr. Gibson, the head gardener at the famous, garden at Levens. It forms one of the series of handbooks of practical gardening edited by Mr. Harry Roberts, and is published by Mr. John.- Lane. It is not quite clear where Mr. Curtis 's. pai'ticipation ends — it might, on a first glance, be thought that the three introductory pages,. which alone are signed by him, constituted the sum of his work, but such an idea is- dissipated by the statement that he had been invited to contribute a historical account, of the art of Topiary. In any case th& first forty pages or so form a very interesting.- and readable preface to the practical advice- given in later chapters by Mr. Gibson. There is- no disputing about matters of taste, and in gardening there is room for the most variedi opinions. Where a solitary specimen or a garden- of clipped Yews has been handed down to us- from our forefathers by all means let us preserve- it and themas curiosities and historical documents. In a public garden like that at Versailles or at- Kew, for instance, we expect to see examples-- of all possible styles of gardening, and on this, account the clipped Yews and Hollies near the^ Palm-house at Kew may be tolerated even wherei admiration is not possible. But when it comes to private gardens andl modern imitations of what is ugly and unnatural! we think that while full liberty oj using the- shears as he pleases should l,)e conceded to every man, those whose duty it is to lead the public- taste or to set an example of what is beautiful and true should have equal liberty to express their- opinions without being " pitied." The very same- writer who made use of the word just quoted, which--, is repeated on the title-page of this little volume,, expresses himself more charitably in another passage quoted on p. 12. " I confess " — it is Mr. Shirley Hibberd who is speaking — " that I shoiUd.- never care to adorn my garden with to-piary ov with carpet - bedding, but I hope always to be- cautious in making declarations in respect of such matters, that I may not appear to despise another- man's pleasures or vainly desire to set up a stan- - dard of my own in opposition to the delightful- variety that is ensured by the free exercise of individual taste and fancy.'* It is indisputable that, m spite of the fact ■jANUAItV IJ, 1905.J THE GARD EN " butt" was brought to Combe whilst I was there_ There is also in this neighbourhood another Apple, viz., the Temple Pippin, whese history unfortunately is not so well known. It is an excellent cool^er and keeps well, and is much thought of hereabouts. Adjoining this parish is the parish and church of Temple Balsall ; whether the Apple originated there I cannot say, but. a good many people are of that opinion. If anyone knows of the whereabouts of its origia perhaps he will kindly let us know. W. Miller^ Berlcswell. ASPARAGUS SPRENGERI (see illustr tion ini last issue). — Plants of this species have flowered frequently and abundantly with us, biit never- before have the fruits developed in such numbers- as they have this season. I am forwarding some^ sprays bearing fruits, also some sprays of A. de— cumbens in flower. A. Munro, The Gardens, Itton Court, Chepstow. [Excellently berried growths- of A. Sprengeri, and well-flowered growths of A. decumbens. They are certainly well adaptei for growing together in baskets. Ed.] CUCUMBER-DISEASE. — There is no sure cure known but that of cupric sulphate, more com- monly knoivn as blue vitriol ; and infinite care- has to be taken in its use as a preventive. If the- following directions are carried out strictly by some trustworthy man, who will take the greatest care that his hands are free from cuts or sores, he may be successful. Procure cupric sulphate from-, some reliable fii'm, and have it reduced to powder- before buying it, as the means of doing this are- not alwaj's handy in a market nursery, and whea- powdered it is more easily dissolved. Procure a. wooden pail, or better, an earthenware pan,, that will hold -1 gallons, and put into it- 2 ounces of cupric sulphate ; then add a &malli quantity of water, and stir with a stick until well dissolved ; then till up the pail with water, and well stir the whole. 'To a 2-gallon can of water- put half a pint of the solution, and stir until well mixed with the water, when it will be ready for- use. One canful will at first be sulBcient for four- plants, but as the plants grow lirger one canful will be needed for three plants, and should be- applied at least twice a week. The cans which, are used should be well washed out as soon as ■ the work is finished, as the solution would soon/ eat into them. C. [See Mr. Willis's note on the- subject on p. 13 of our last issue. Ei>.] THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S. VEGETABLE SHOW. — The announcement in the- Gardeners' Chronicle Almanac (the only one, also) that it was proposed to hold an exhibition of" vegetables at the Horticultural Hall on Septem- ber 12 next, caught the eyes of some of our lead- ing vegetable growers, who were alarmed, on the ground that, wishing to be at the great Inter- national Exhibition at Edinburgh the next day, they could not possibly exhibit on the 12th at West- minster. 1 was by them invited to urge the postponement of the vegetable show on that account, and on representing this fact to the Secretary (the Kev. Mr. Wilks), that gentleman readily accepted the next fpossible meeting for the show — October 21-. On Septiember 2G the National Rose Show takes place, and on October lO the great show of British fruit is held, hence. October 24 is the earliest available date. Will all vegetable growers or exhibitors please to note this new date ? A. Dean. THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE AND GAR- DENERS. — I should like to ilraw the attention of the gardening public to a new departure on th& part of the Board of Agriculture. This consists of the issue by them at a purely nominal price of the first 100 of their well-known leaflets, bound. The leaflets are the work of thehighestauthorities, and principally deal with the ills .and evils which beset those " on the land." They range from that Gargantimn ill — income tax (certainly one of the biggest to those whom it attacks), through sucik Jasuaky 14, 1905.] THE GARD ENER S ' CBR ONI CL E. 29 visible evils as the Daddy Longlegs, to such com- paratively invisible foes as the Black Currant Bud Mite. Very nearly all the leaflets will be found of interest to thegardener, and as the resultofarough count I should say that SO out of the 100 intimately concern him. Several of them I regard as being likely to be of the highest value to the market grower. I will give a selection of their titles, thinking that this may be the means of many growers writing for the book : — " Grading and Packing Fruit and Vegetables," " Red Spider," "Root- Knot Disease in Cucumbers and Tomatos," and " Cucumber and Melon Leaf Blotch." In several instances the use of potassium sulphide, commonly known as liver-of-sulphur, m solution as a spray as a fungicide is commended. I can give personal testimony to the value of this, but so far as my experience goes potassium sulphide is by no means in very general use. Having thus very briefly and partially indicated the value the volume possesses to horticulturists, it remains to tell how it can be procured. This any interested person can do by sending an unstamped applica- tion, with 6d., to the Secretary, Board of Agricul- ture and Fisheries, 4, Whitehall Place, S.W. ; and he or she will do well to at the same time ask for the remaining leaflets of the series (unbound). The latest cf these is, I believe. No. IIG, which deals with the " Sleeping Disease of Tomatos." The relations of the Board to its public — what it does do and what it might do — is a very interest- ing subject, but this I will not enter upon on this occasion. I hope that the issue of this valuable work at a nominal price is but the prelude to other issues, and I can point out to the Board a concession on their part which would be very grateful to gardeners. It is a considerable reduction in the prices of the Kew Hand-Lists, the prices of which are at present by no means nominal. " Jason." DAHLIA THE MIKADO.— In reference to my note on p. 13 concerning the Dahlia "Mikado," 1 may add that there is still a third variety in the trade called " Mikado," It has single flowers, and the colonr is golden yellow at the points, and the base of the florets and the remainder red. It grows about -IJ feet high. Of course, it is an old variety, but still is offered in catalogues for id. or 5d. each root. Frank Koehler. MYROBALAN PLUM. — (See enquiry in last week's Gardeners' Chronicle, on p. 16). — The Myro- balan Plum is much superior to the Thorn for hed g- ing purposes, that is as regards quickness of growth and impenetrableness of fence. It also makes a pretty hedge if trimmed annually, as all hedges should be. Within the last seven or eight years I have supplied and superintended the planting of thousands of the Myrobalan Plum for hedging purposes, and they have formed good living fences within a space of three years from the time of planting. The plants will grow almost any- where and under the most ordinary conditions. But the more favourable the conditions are regarding soil and method of planting, the quicker and better will be the results obtained within a given time. The ground (pasture land) was simply dug a spit deep and from 15 to 18 inches wide, and the planting was proceeded with in the process of digging, the plants being set 6 inches apart zig-zag m the row, the soil being trodden more or less according to the nature and condition of the soil at the time of planting to make it firm round the roots. Assuming the planting to be done in late autumn or early spring, the plants should be cut down to within about 15 inches of the ground twelve months from the time of planting in order to insure a good foundation and a thick and impenetrable hedge within as short a space of time as possible. H. W. Ward, Rayleigh. I planted several thousands of the Myro- balan Plum when in Scotland, but found it no substitute for Quick there. Hares and rabbits are also very fond of the plants, which require rich soil to grow well. Geo. Duncan. FOSSIL PLANTS. — I read Mr. W. Miller's letter on p. 12 with much interest. In it reference was made to " fine avenues and isolated specimens of Araucaria imbricata to bo met with in various parts of the country." The only fine, or anything approaching fine, avenue of the Araucaria I have seen was observed at East Dean Park, Lord Wimborne's place near Bournemontb, some years ago. The trees appeared to le quite at home in the light dryish soil characteristic of Bourne- mouth generally, and the waim sheltered potition which they occupied. The finest specimens I have seen are growing in the vicarage grounds at Alderbury, near Salisbury, the rectory grounds at Rayleigh, and in a cottage garden at, or near, Ightham, near Sevenoaks, all the trees being located in somewhat favourable positions as regards soil, and sheltered from north and east winds. Regarding Taxodium distichum, there are two good specimens growing in the grounds at Longford Castle near the waterfall, and within a couple of dozen yards of the rivers Avon and Ebele. One specimen is considerably larger than the other, and I should say is now over 100 feet in height, and of good girth of trunk. There is even a finer specimen than this to be found growing on the bank of a tributary to the river Test, in the grounds at Broadlands, Romsey. This is the finest tree of the kind it has been my good fortune to see in any part of England, Ireland, or Scotland. All the trees of the de- ciduous Cypress named, it will be observed, are growing in moist situations, as mentioned by Mr. Miller. H. W. IF. NOVELTIES OF 1904. (Continued Jroju p. 2.) Stove and Greenhouse Plants. — The finest now plant of the year has been the gorgeous ruby-crimson GloriosaKothschildiana, introduced from Uganda, and shown from the Kight Hon. Lord Kothschild's garden?, Tring Park (gr.,Mr. A. Dye). This was the only plant to which the Floral Committee awarded a First - class Certificate out of the large number of beautiful specimens exhibited at the last Temple Show. Nicotiana Sanderte has been shown by Messrs. Sander & Sons in quantity. The elegant plants bear showy flowers of various shades of magenta, rose, and crimson, with an occa- sional white form, and for which a First-class Certificate was awarded at the Royal Horticul- tural Society's meeting on May 3, 1904. It is an ideal garden plant, as it may be grown from seeds freely, and used either as a greenhouse decorative plant or for planting in the fiower- garden, for massin-ij in beds or for occasional clumps in the herbaceous borders or shrub- beries. Other good plants of the year shown by Messrs. Sander were Clerodendron myrmeco- philum, Alpinia Sanderre, and a number of very handsome hybrid Begonias between B. Socotrana and B. Eex, two of the best being B. Mrs. H. G. Moon and B. Fearnley Sander. Messrs. Jas. Veitch l\; Sons, Chelsea, continue to improve their fine strain of perpetual-fiower- ing Begonias of the '* Winter Cheer " class, and in the pretty dwarf floriferous Begonia Washing- ton they have the be&t of " bedders." From their famous strain of Hippeastrums, H. Eonda was certificated, and the firm is credited with the handsome new Nej^enthes " F. W. Moore," and their Eupatorium vernale is one of the most useful species for the supply of flowers for cutting. Various other useful plants in this and other classes will be found enumerated in the list, to be puldished next week, of good plants illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle during 1904. Tuberous Begonias. These beautiful plants have been brought to such a high state of perfection by the several firms cultivating them, that it has become difli- cult to secure superior novelties. But although the awards are few. Begonias have never been seen in gi-eater excellence than last year. The best of the certificated varitties were B. Argus (double crimson-scarlet), B. Avalanche (double white), and B. Lady Curzon (salmon-red), all of Messrs. Blackmore t^ Lanodon, Twerton, Bath ; B. Mr. W. H. Edwards (double blush-white), of Messrs. T. S. Ware ; B. Canopus (fringed double yellow), of Messrs. B. R. Davis & Sons; and B. Margaret Gwillim (large double yellow), of Mr. A. Ll. Gwillim. Ferns. As with most other classes of plants, the interest centres in the "decorative" kinds. Pteris Hilli and P. Binotii, of Messrs. J. Hill k Sons, are very usefiil additions ; Pteris Sumnersi, P. cretica capitata, and Loraaria Mayi, of Mr. H. B. May, Edmonton, are graceful plants likely to be grown in quantity for market ; and Cyrtom- ium falcatum Butterfieldi, of Mr. P. T. Butter- field, Waltham Cross, is a graceful variation of a useful species. Miscellaneous Bulbous Flakts, &c. The best Hippeastrum certificated during the year is H. Snowdon, the finest white of the best " florists' " shape, which received a First-class Certificate when shown by the raiser, Mr. Fielder gr. to Mrs. Burns, Hatfield, on April 19. In the Nerine Bowdeni, shown by Messrs. Robert Veitch &. Son, Exeter, is exemplified the remarkable occurrence of a new Nerine with pink flowers, better than any imported before ; and H. J. Elwes, Esq.,Cole3borne, Andoversford, who now takes the lead in raising hybrid Nerines, had two pretty new varieties in his group shown October IS, viz. — Nerine Lady Ffolkes and N. Miss Shelley, both having delicate pink flowers, and both were accorded Awards of Merit. At the same meeting similar awards were made to ten new Chrysanthemums, additional varieties of Chrysanthemums securing awards for novelties also at other shows. Haedt Flowers. A welcome new set of hybrid Iris x Regelio- cyclus was shown by Mr. C. G. Van Tubergen, junr.j of Zwanenberg. Haarlem, on May 17. Eight of the most beautiful received awards. Other worthy novelties have been added to the genus, notably the Iris Lorteti alba and I. Haynei, for which Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, of Highgate and Barnet, received awards. Messi's. Khlway ^.t Sons, Langport, continue to improve Piconies, Gladioli, and other showy flowers for which they are famous, and have im- proved the qualities of each class. Mr. James Douglas. Edenside, Great Bookham, has been successful with Auriculas and Carnations, in the latter being joined by Mr. Martin R. Smith and others. Various other worthy novelties were exhibited, some of them already certificated, and others (as with the grand Meconopsis of Messrs. Jas. Veitch A: Sons) reserved for that honour in the coming year. Narcissus. The Daffodil shares with the Iris the distinc- tion of being the Orchid of the open-air garden, and embraces some of the most beautiful and graceful flowers, well improved by the gardener's efforts. Miss Willmott, Great Warley, is one of the best cultivators, and has one of the finest collections. Of the best novelties in this class Narcissus Great Warley (a lovely flower nearly 4 inches across). N. Warley Scarlet (with orange - scarlet cup), N. Zenith (white with flat orange-scarlet corona), N. Flag of Truce (white), N. White Ensign (white with lemon- yellow corona), and N. Count Visconti (canary- yellow), have secured awards. Mr. A. Kings- mill's best was N. Bennett-Poi" ; Messrs. Barb tt Sons', N. Elvira, N. Henry Vilmorin, N. Pyraraus — all Awards of Merit. N. Surprise was shown by Messrs. Pope tt Son. Potatos. These have occupied much attention, and the list of illustrations given during the past year gives references to some of the best. The in- troduction of new varieties raised from seeds is 30 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jakuaey 14, 1905. an important work which should bo encouraged, as apart from any consideration as to the better quality of the new varieties when compared with the old, there is no doubt that the introduction of such newly-raised varieties offers tlie best means of combating the dreaded Potato disease. The relative merits of the different varieties of Apples and Pears have also been gone thoroughly into, and attempts made in our own columns to indicate the very best. Most of those considered the best are not new, hut being the best they have been illustrated, and the figures will be found in the Gardeners' Chronicle, (To be continued.) P T A T S. Eaelt Culture in Cornwall. — From a Cornish contemporary we note that the market gardeners in the Penzance and Marazion dis- tricts have almost finished taking in their sup- plies of seed Potatos of the early varieties for the coming season, and of which many tons have been daily put on the shelves for sprouting for some weeks past. The varieties chiefly in demand this year are the Duke of York and the British Queen. The first-named is generally recognised as being the very earliest to mature for market purposes, and the Queen is the favourite to follow in suc- cession. Myatt's Ashleaf, which, until the intro- duction of the Duke of York, was the earliest general cropper, is still favourably regarded by many growers, although the quantity sold is much less than formerly. The recent varieties, of which so much has been written, and for which such high prices have been paid in Lincolnshire and elsewhere, have not yet taken any general hold on the "West-country grower, although this season a few of the newer varieties, disease-resisting and otherwise, are being tried on many farms. There have been many enquiries for May Queens, and a few parcels have been secured and quickly disposed of, whilst several lots of the variety Sir John Llewelyn have also been distributed. Prices for the ordinary kinds, although somewhat high, are considerably below those of last year, and towards the end of the season have become somewhat firmer, due probably to the fact that the demand is equal to the supply. The bulk of at least early seed Potatos comes from Lincolnshire, which is the premier Potato-growing county in England. An enormous amount of capital is being laid out in seed, and it is to be hoped that next season will be more remunerative than the last, when low prices were realised for the early crops after the first few days' lifting. ©bituarp. Arthur W. Wade. — We regret to announce tlie death of Mr. A. W. Wade, who immediately previous to his death was in the emplo.y of Messrs. Caldwell, nurserymen, of Knutsford, Cheshire. Mr. Wade met his death by falling from his bicycle when riding towards his home at Knutsford, on the evening of January 2. He died unconscious a few hours after the accident had occurred. Previous to entering the service of Messrs. Caldwell, Mr. Wade was for some time foreman in the herbaceous department at Messrs. Clibrans'. He had also filled a similar position with Messrs. Wallace & Co., of Colchester. Mr. Wade was once employed at Kew, which gardens he left in March, 1891. Deceased, who was thirty-six years of age, leaves a widow and young family. John R. Stirling.— The many friends of Mr. John K. Stirling, late head gardener at Bucking- ham Palace, will hear with regret of his death, an event which took place rather suddenly on December 17 at the little village of Eyme, in Dorsetshire, whither he had retired on the receipt of a pension after twenty years in the Eoyal service. Deceased commenced his gardening career in the early sixties at Petworth , continuing at two or three of the leading places in the South of England. Four years as foreman at EnviUe Hall followed, after which he went to South Wales as gardener to Lord Swansea. In 1.SS2 he received the appointment at Buckingham Palace, and remained there nearly twenty years, earning the esteem of all with whom he came m contact, alike from his high personal character and his garden- ing abilities. When shortly after the death of Queen Victoria considerable alterations were made as to the upkeep of the Palace gardens, Mr. Stirling retired on a pension to a remote Dorset village. He has unfortunately not lived long to enjoy his well-earned rest. He leaves a widoiv but no family. A'. L. B. SOCIETIES. THE ROYAL HORTICULTUBAI,. Scientific Committee. Jandakv S.—P resent : Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S. (in the chair), Dr. Cooke, Professors Boiilger and Church, Eev. ^V. AVilks, Messrs. Saunders, Bowles, Shea, Worslev, Odell, Gordon, and Chittenden (Hon. Secretarj). Hcnsloiv Testimonial. — Dr. Masteks reported on the progress made towards the completion of this. The subscriptions, confined to members of the Committee, ajnount to about £40 at present. Diseased Carnations. — Mr. Saunders reported con- cerning the Carnation plants sent to the last meeting that he could find no trace of eelworms or insects present ; and Dr. Cooke wrote : "The plant examined gave no evidence of fungus attack, but the root was completely rotted with moisture. All the mischief evidently arose from mistakes in cultivation, and this is sufficient to account for the result.*' Fungus on Agapanthus St€in. — Dr. CoOKE reported on this, specimens of which were brought to the last meeting b;- Mr. AVorsley : "The black elliptical and elongated spots on the dead stems are merely indica- tions of the common saprophytic mould, Cladosporinm herbarum. Being kept in a damp atmosphere for two or three da\s, every sjiot was velvety with the threads and covered with the spores." Oranges attacked hij Scale. — Respecting the Oranges from Seville badly attacked by scale, Dr. Cooke reported : "There was not the slightest trace of Fumago or Capnodium, or even of fungus or fungus mycelium of any kind, except Penicillium glaucum, which soon made its appearance and produced a plentiful crop.'" Pear Diseased. —Mr. Shea showed a Pear which had several brown decayed spots in the flesh, but seemed quite normal externall}'. Dr. CooKE undertook to report upon it at the next meeting. S]iots on Ph}//locactvs. — Diseased specimens of Phyllocactus shown b\- Mr. "Worsley were referred to Mr. Saunders and Dr. Cooke. Germination of Sechium, cdule. — Mr. Odell showed specimens of the curious fruits of this plant, known as the Chaco or Chocho, containing germinating i;eeds. The plant belongs to the Cucurbitace;e, and the fruit is a pepo, containing only one seed. The seed germinates within the "pepo," and is inseparable from it. Nu- merous roots are produced on germination, and the stem grows out tlirough the fruit wall, which subse- quently becomes woody, while the cotyledons remain behind in the fruit. Some discussion took j)lace as to the fate of tlie radicle, which appears to be of \ery limited growth. Tlie fruit is used like the Marrow in the West Indies and in the United States of America. (See fig. in Gardeners' Chronicle, Dec. 22, I'.HJO, p. 45U.) Big-hud in Hazd.- -'BvidiS of the Hazel attacked by the bud-mite wure referred to Mr. Saunders, who undertook to report upon them. (See also fig. 15.) Pl-antfor Naming.— 'Mr. J. R. Baker, of AVest End. Southampton, sent some branches under the name of Thuya Lobbi. This naming was confirmed by Dr. Masters. T. Lol)bi and T. gigantea being garden names for the true T. plicata. Diseased £«'•/(.— Mr. D'Ojibrain sent specimens, which Dr. CooKE kindly undertook to examine and report ujx>n. Vdrietu of Dovglas Fir. — Dr. Masters showed a curious shortdea\ed form of the Douglas Fir which came up among a batch of seedlings in Holland. It was at first thought to be a hybrid of that species with Tsuga Sieboldi, Ijut a transverse section of the leaf at once showed it to be a true Douglas Fir. NATIONAL SWEET PEA. "We are informed that it lias been arranged to hold the l'J05 exhibition in conjmiction with the Royal Horti- cultural Societyat Vincent Square, S.W., on Tuesday, July 4. Upwards of 1'90 are offered in money prizes, and Messrs. Sutton & Sons are i)resenting a Silver Challenge Cup, value fifteen guineas, in Class 1, the Society' giving the winner a Gold lledal as a permanent memento of success. The schedule will be in the hands of members by the 14th inst. The Sivect Pea Annual will be published one week later, and will be sent free to members. Full particulars on any matter connected with the Society will be glaJly furnished by Horace J. Wright, 32, Dault Road, Wandsworth. London. HORTICULTUKAL CLUB. January 3, lilOo. — Tlie usual monthly dinner of this Club was held at the Hotel Windsor, on Tuesday, the 3rd instant, when Sir John Llewelyn, Bart., took the chair, and a good muster of members and guests assembled to hear the subsequent chat, rather than lecture, of Mr. Joseph Cheal, entitled "Talks on a Journej- to Egypt and Syria," illustrated by numerous lantern slides. Unfortunately, the generally dry and desert character of the region traversed by IVIi-. Cheal detracted inevitably to some extent from its horti- cultural or botanical interest, but this element was hy no means altogether absent, since the celebrated home of the Lebanon Cedars was visited : and some very interesting photographs were shown in this connection, while Mr. Cheal remarked that the generally -received idea that but few remained in the original habitat of these magnificent trees was erroneous, since man.v thousands still remain on the Lebanon slopes in the district he visited, and many also in another and dis- tant one. Tlie chief enemy to the trees appears to be the goats, which destroy the seedlings ; and although steps are said to have been taken by the Turkish Govern- ment to protect them, these steps are too much on the vague and uncertain Turkish lines to be of much avail. Some specially interesting slides illustrated the culture of the Mulberry -tree in the silk-producing districts. Here the mountain slojies are covered with rudely-built terraces constructed of alternate banks of stone and beds of soil, in which the trees are grown in rows, and kej)t cut so hard back as to be little more than standard bushes. The white Mulberry appears to be the prevalent kind, only a few of the red variety being grown for dessert purposes. The Date Palm is another and very important staple, and it has been said that a single Palm will ^sujjport a man by its produce ; it must however be borne in mind that the needs of the man in question are orientally meagre. Locust trees, a splendid specimen of the Banyan [?], antique and weird Olive trees, huge Opuntias with pseudo-leaves as big as tennis-bats, Bougainvilleas of most luxuriantly rampant growth, steeple-like Cupressus, and an extremely curious tree called the Cucumber tree, with long Cucumber-like but hard and leathery fruits, suspended on li to 8 feet stalks, all figured on the screen, intermingled with oriental land- scapes and scenes embracing camels, Arabs, ancient rock inscriptions, primitive ploughs, native methods of irrigation, cookery. &c., culminating in a swarm of locusts, covering the ground and the herbage thereon, like a veritable insect blizzard. An interesting fact in connection with the extremely rude methods of irrigation in vogue, consisting of wooden wheels with loosely attached earthen jars suspended by rough cordage, was that several attempts had been made to improve this by modern machinery, but all in vain, for the reason that no facilities existed for the inevitable repairs of ironwork, while the primitive apparatus could be always and immediately repaired on the spot by the natives themselves at comparatively little expense. Some views of Jerusalem and other ]>laces mentioned in Holy Writ were also shown, and as Jlr. Cheal's visit was connected with some mission work in Syria, he was able to accompany their exhibition with many interesting remarks. No discussion followed the lec- ture, since Mr. Cheal had invited those present to make anydesired remarks as he proceeded ; and this was done. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OP ENGLAND ORCHID. January 5.^Tbe first meeting of the new year brought together a nice collection of plants. Messrs. J. Cypher & Sons. Cheltenham, had a magnificent group, consisting principally of well-grown Cypripediums, hybrids and species. A pretty feature of the group was a mass of well-flowered Trichopilia suavis. There was also a good plant of Cypripedium insigne var. Luciani (Silver Medal). G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., Rawtenstall (gr., Mr. Skill), exhibited a collection of Cypripediums, among which were two fine varieties of C. x Euryades, viz., C. X Euryades var. splendens and C. x Euryades var. magnifica. C. x aureum var. Surprise was also worthy of note. W. Thompson, Esq., Stone (gr., Mr. Stevens), exhibited a grand ]>laut of Odontoglossum x Mulus with eight large spikes of flowers, a fine example of cultivation, for which a certificate was given. jANtlARY IJ, 1905.] THE GARD ENER S ' CUR ONI CL E. 31 Messrs. Sander k Sons, St. Albans, exhibiteil Cypripediunis, &c. Messrs. A. J. Kkeling & SONS were awarded a Bronze Medal for a group in which were some distinct hybrid Cypripediums. Messrs. H. Low & Co., Enfield, staged Cypripedium X Miuos Young's variety, C. x macrochilum, and others. Messrs. Oowan & Co., Ltd., Gateacre, staged some good Odontoglossums, including O. x crispo-Harryanum, O. X Wilckeanum, and O. x loochristiense (Vote of Thanks). Mr. D. McLeoo, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, exhibited several plants, including a fine form of C3'pripedium X triumphans and C. x Euryades var. (Vote of Thanks). Mrs. S. Gratrix, Whalley Range (gr., Mr. Cypher), exhibited the only plants to wliich awards were made — viz., Cypripedium x The Czar, a cross between C. iusigne var. Sandcras x C. Sallieri var. Hyeanum ; and C. x General Stiissel (parentage unknown), a good hybrid, quite distinct ; both received Awards of Merit. The following awards were made at the meeting on December 15. 1904. First-Class Certificate. Cypripedium callosum Sanderse Jules Hyes var.. from Mrs. S. Gratrix. C. Leeanum corunna triumphans, from Mrs. Ardern. Lffilia-Cattleya Donuii, E. Ashworth. Esq. Cypripedium Arthurianum pulchellum, from A. Warburton, Esq. Award of Merit. Cypripedium mirabile barbatum naurum x callosum, from T. Statter, Esq. Medals. W. Duckworth. Esq., Gold Medal. "W. Lavertou, Esq., Brouze Medal. J. C. Cowan & Co., Silver-gilt Medal. Messrs. Sander & Son, Bronze Medal. P. W. UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND PROVIDENT. January 0.— At a meeting of the Committee held on Monday evening last, Mr. Curtis in the chair, twelve new members were elected and one nominated. Fifteen members have received sick benefit during the past month, the amount of sick pay being £3G 18,9. The usual grants were made to members on the Benevolent Fund. A grant of £5 was also made to a member in distress who had recently lost his wife. GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES. ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL ASSOCIATION. — Tlie annual general meeting of the above Association was held at Warburton's Hotel, Newport, on Saturday, January 7. Dr. Groves, B.A., J.Y.. presided over a good attendance of members. The Hon. Secretary, Mr A Kime, read the report of the Committee and tlie balance-sheet, which were considered satisfactory and were adopted. In addition to the Association hein" numerically stronger than Inst year, after all expenses are met. there is a substantial balance left in the liaiids of the Treasurer. The retiring officials were cordially thanked for their past services. Dr. Groves was unani- mously elected Chairman and Treasurer of the Associa- tion ; Mr. R. A. Sutton was elected Hon. Auditor • Messrs, Kime and Snook, Hon. Secretary and Assistant Hon. Secretary respectively. The retiring Committee was elected en lilac, with the exception of Mr. Snook for the Slianklin district, who is succeeded by Mr. ,7, H filsbury. A unanimous vote of thanks was accorded the Editor of the Ganleners' Chronicle for kindly in- serting reports of the Association's meetings. Several new members were elected. Mr. Wm, Tfe will lecture on " Carnations " at the next monthly meeting. BECKENHAM HORTICULTURAL. - At the first gathering of this Socluly held in the New Year, a paper was given by Mr. P. Waterer on " Decorative Clirysan- themums. Mr. A. J. Baker, KC.C, occupied the chair, ihe paper dealt witli the methods necessary for pro- aucinganumberof medium-sized blooms, rather than the usual three of exhibition size as generally grown Mr. Watcrer's method of cultivation is to pinch the shoots twice during the season. Some varieties he advocated disbudding to one bud on each shoot, while on other plants he retained three or four buds, accord- ing to wliich pl.au g.avo the best results. A pleasing oasket of Chrysantheinuins of the variety Robert Morgan, intermixed Willi Freesias, staged by the lecturer, was much .admired. F. W. P. EQHAM.AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'. — At the meeting of this Society held on .lanuarv :!, ,an interest- ing paper was read by Mr. Brown, assistant in the iioUnic^l Department of Cooper's Hill College, on How Botany Helps us." The essayist invited hia hearers in thouglit," to take a general walk round, piiiutiug out, in passing through the various depart- meuls h.iw the science of botany assists one to master many dilhciilties that arise from various failures of Kiowlh, and to understand the many diseases plants are subject to. The lecturer advised the more general study of botany by ouryoungei -ardeners. .^discussion took place on some of the disciscs that are met with in the immediate district. CROYDON AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL.— The annual meeting of the above Society took place on Tuesday evening January 3. Mr. J. Gregory presiding. The following ollicers were duly nominated and elected:— President, Mr. J. J. Reid, Coombc Lodge, Croydon ; Chairman, Mr. M. E. Mills; Vice-ch.airman. Mr. W. Bcntlcy ; Treasurer, Mr P. F. Bunyard ; Hon. Sec, Mr. H. Bosliier, 6?, High Street, Croydon. The names of Messrs. A. C. Crowley and N. Waterall were added to the list of vice-presidents. Messrs. W. Tyrell and W. Veners. were appointed to serve on the Com- mittee vice Messrs. W. Bentley and W. Harris. Mr. Bunyard formally presented tlid Treasurer's report for the year ended December .31, 1904, from which it appeared that the receipts amounted to £.12 lUs. ild. and the expenditure to £51 1,5. Hit!., there was thus a balance in hand of £1 Us. id. The Treasurer's report was adopted. Tlie Secretary's annual report gave a most satisf.actory statement of the condition of the Society, and recorded success in all the Society's under- takings. The proceedings closed with votes of thanks to the Chairman and the officers, special reference being made to the services of the Hon. Secretary, Mr. Harry Bosliier. THE REOHILL, REIGATE AND DISTRICT GAR- DENERS'. — This Society hold its fortnightly meeting on January a, Mr. W. P. Bound in the chair. The lecture on this occasion was Riven by Mr. W. Blackwood, who took for his subject "The Cultivation of the Tomato." After briefly toucliing on the introduction of the Tomato, Mr. Blackwood devoted attention to the practical side of the question, giving much valuable lnforni.ation on raising the seedlings, and the best means of obtaining thorouglily strong and healthy plants. January, February, March and August were the most suitable months for sowing the seed and by making successional sowings the cultivator would have little difficulty in maintaining a good supply of fruit for the greater part of the year. The lecturer also dealt with the questions of temperature, soil, manures and diseases to which the Tomato is subject. A dis- cussion followed. F. t'. /,. TRADE NOTE. We are informed that Mr. J. E. Sadler, late of Messrs. ,1. Backhouse i Son, of Tork, has been appointed traveller for the northern district, re- presentiiif;- Messrs. Wm. Wood & Son, Ltd., Royal Horticultural Sjiecialists, Wood Green, London, N^ ApPLE.s: R. W. P. S; Sons. Many thanks for your communioation. The census showed that there is an overwhelming agreement in regard to the best half-dozen varieties, as you will see on reference to the percentages given on p. 20 of this issue. At the same time we are aware that in particular gardens, owing to peculiarities of soil, altitude, or degree of shelter, the results obtained from certain varieties will not be exactly the same as the average results, even in the same neighbourhood. We quite aoree with your appreciation of tlie varieties Dumelow's Seedling and Lord Suffieki, and their inclusion in the best half-dozen can hardly surprise any fruit-grower, notwithstanding the liability of Lord Suffield to attacks from canker. The fruits of Maltster you have kindly sent us show that the season of this culinary Apple does not usually extend beyond the close of the year. It is grown chiefly in Nottinghamshire, where the trees grow freely and bear abundantly. Beech-treks Dying : W. J. W. In the absence of specimens we suspect that the white downy appearance on the trees is due to an insect, the Beech-aphis, C'hermes fagi. This is a common pest on Beech-trees, and is very frequently associated with canker. Spraying with petro- leum emulsion is advisable where practicable. Bud Variation : A'. Y. We know of no means of inducing bud- variation, but insect-punctures will and do induce malformations. There is no separate work on bud-variation, but you will find much information in Darwin's Animals and Plants under Domestication. Masters's Vegetable Tcratoloijij, and a special article in these columns in 1891, January 10, 17, 2i, and February 21. Carnations: Corresjjondent. We do not know the composition of Wagner's Solution for use in the culture of Carnations, Cinerarias: T. B. A. If you will cut through the collar of your pl,ants from above down- wards you will see a cavity formed by the grub of some insect. You must keep watch and try to ascertain what the insect is. Currant Buds : E. S. Your inference is correct ; the shoots are badly infested with the Currant- bud mite, which causes the buds to have a swollen appearance. We should advise pruning the bushes very hard back, removing the^soil Fill. 1.5. —SHOOTS or THE ULACK CURRANT AFFECTED WiTil BUD-MITES. from the surface beneath, and encouraging new growth by the addition of a suitable mulching of manure. Unless the plantation is young, however, grub the trees and replant on fresh ground. Grafting Hollies : H. E. C. If the green- leaved Hollies you intend to use as stocks are as high as you wish your varieg.ated standard^ to be, do not graft them, but in June or July insert buds of your variegated varieties either in the main stem or in the laterals of the stocks. If the stems are of moderate stoutness insert two or three buds in each, or if they are put in the laterals then put one bud in each, pushing the shield close down into the angle made by the lateral with the main stem. Bind the stem around the inserted bud closely with budding- cotton, and smear a thin layer of grafting-wax over the tie. The grafting of Hollies is not a very certain means of propagating them, and should only be done to obtain dwarfs or pyramids, and then the grafts should be made close to the ground, while after the tie and wax has been put on, it is better to draw the soil in a ridge round the grafts to make sure of their growing. This should be done in April and May, when the stocks are just beginning to grow, and it is better to cut the scions a month before and to bed them in the soil till wanted. If properly done, .and yours is a " Holly soil," it will take about three years for the plants to make respectable heads; but this period may be shortened by good cultivation and the use of manures, Wateriana (gold). Queen (silver), and Handsworth's Silver-striped are iimong the best varieties to make standards, and the Weeping Holly in both green and variegated varieties is very suitable for this method of cultivation. Maik Eel; C. Ji. P. The specimen you send is v gooil exatnple of Gordins aquations, belonging THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JANUAEY 14, 1905. to the Annelida cIa5S, possessing very simple strucUire. This is the commonest species of Gordius in Britain, of which the popular name is Hair-eel ; and a notion still prevails in many parts of the country that it is nothing else than a horse-hair, which has somehow acquired life hy long immersion in water. Gordii are extremely common in the Eiver Thames. Ltcaste Skinneri Varieties: J.B. The flowers form a most interesting set of eight very fine and distinct varieties of this beautiful Orchid. These are L. S. alba, a fine pure white form ; L. S. Lady Gladys, similar to alba, but with a slight blush tint; L. S. armeniaca, blush-white, with slight copper- coloured tint on the lip ; L. S. Enchantress, a large blush-white ; L. S. Beaut.y, rose-pink, with white labellum bearing bright rose- coloured markings ; L. S. Amazon, a magnifi- cent large flower ; and two others, the one a dark form with fine crimson spotting on the lip. A flower of a very fine dark Cymbidium Traoyanum, and large blooms of Ihree forms of Odontoglossum x Harryano-crispum, also accompany the Lycastes, all indicating a very high state of cultivation. Names of Fruits : W. H. S. 1, Bess Pool ; 2, Court of Wick; 3, Brownlees's iiusset ; 4, Winter Bed Streak ; 5, Eeinette' de Canada ; 6, Eoss Nonpareil. — J. E. B. Pear decayed. Apples, 1, Tower of Glamis ; 2, Minchull Crab. — IF. E. H. 1, Flower of Kent; 2, Brown's Seedling; 3, Augustus Pearmain. — A. McAslam. Cornish Aromatic. — Thrapston. 1, Dumelow's Seedling (Wellington) ; 2', Cox's Orange Pippin ; 4, Scarlet Nonpareil. — A. B. Lord Lennox. — H. Smart. Beurrc Sterckmans. — J. H., Staffs. HoUandbury.— /. T. S. Your Apple was too far decayed for us to identify the variety. Names of Plants : J. H. H. Pleroma macran- thum. — J. A. C, £astbourne. jEschynanthus speciosuB. — B., Usse.r. Cymbidium Tracyanum. — F. G. B. Dendrobiura Phala;nopsis and Oncidium tigrinum. The Dendrobium is a warm-house plant, but the Oncidium will grow with the Odontoglossum in a cool-house. — A. C. F. Cupressus (Eetinospora) obtusa and Picea Morinda, small undeveloped specimen. — F. C. Phyllanthus nivosus. — Japonica. 1, Cym- bidium giganteum ; 2, Lalia anceps ; 3, 4, 5, 7, all forms of Oncidium tigrinum ; 6, Eestrepia striata ; 8, Odontoglossum Eossii majus, a very pretty form of it. — V. M. 1, Brassavola tuber- culata ; 2, Aspasia lunata ; 3, Odontoglossum Lindleyanum ; 4, Oncidium flexuosum ; 5, O. sphacelatum ; U. O. crispum. — IV. D. D. We are unable to name the Chrysanthemum. Peach-trees Planted in Eows Aceo.ss the House : JV. H. You had better put one trellis across the house, and see first how a tree against this trellis will succeed in your Northern locality. If your garden were situated in the South of England, where there is a greater degree of sunshine, we .should have no hesita- tion in advising you that the system would be satisfactory. At Buxted Park, near Uckfield, in Sussex, Mr. Prinsep, the gardener there, planted years ago a house 32 feet long and 18 feet wide (same width as yours) in this manner, and the results he obtains are ex- cellent, the crop being in his own opinion heavier than could be got from trees on the roof and upon the back wall only. The hoixse at Buxted has a " hip." or three-quarter-span Toof, and trees are cultivated against the back wall, just as under the common system of planting. Then instead of having trees along the front of the house, there are seven rows of trees proceeding across the house from the path near to the wall to the front. The trees are trained to upright trellises, and 4 feet spaces are allowed between each row of trees. As we stated in our issue for No- vember 22, 1902, p. 373, the system appears to be one that might be adopted with advantage in gardens of moderate size and convenience, providing the locality is a sunny one, where the outdoor crops usually ripen early. In colder or in northern districts, and in extra wide houses, it might happen that parts of the trees would not perfectly mature the wood. See also Gardeners' Chronicle, November 29, p. 401 ; December 0, p. 422 ; and December 20, p. 4(J3, all in 1902. Pbat Soils: X D. C. Peat foils contain an over- abundance of organic matter, and are therefore generally rich in what is called acid humus, in which it is well known our cultivated plants do not flourish. But if basic bodies, such as lime, wood-ashes, peat-ashes, &c., are added to the peat soils, they are changed gradually into ripe or mellow humus, and lose the acid properties ; then it not only becomes fertile, but increas- ingly so T^hen it has been subjected to fer- mentation, which is greatly hastened by the application of liquid animal manure. Peat soils are generally very poor indeed in all alkaline salts, of which lime and jjhosphoric acid are the most important, since these have been in great part washed out by the water which covered the peat deposits. We recom- mend an application of a mixture of super- phosphate (high grade — say 37 per cent, phos- phate) and quick-lime in equal proportions, to which may he added a little sulphate of potash, and apply this at the rate of 10 oz. per square yard of soil. Wood-ashes and soot mixed together are excellent fertilisers for peat soils. Basic slag may also be used with advantage at the rate of 8 to 10 oz. per square yard. Use liquid-manure much more abundantly for culi- nary vegetable crops than for flowering plants. The six hardy flowering annuals we recommend for the peat soils are Godetia ( Lady Albemarle and Duchess of Albany), Clarkia elegans rosea. Mignonette, Schizanthus grandiflerus oculatus. Sweet Sultan in various colours, and Nemophila insignis. We strongly recommend you to plant Primula japonica, which is one of the finest of the strong - growing species, and succeeds well in the bog-garden or by the side - of a stream or lake. The seeds of this species should be sown as soon as ripe. When once sown it seeds itself, and the young plants come up in hundreds, when they may be trans- planted. They die down in the winter and remain dormant until the following spring. Eichardia (Calla) grandiflora [^thiopica] : J. M. No doubt your plants are affected with soft rot. Try to scoop out the diseased portions and apply a weak solution of carbolic acid or Condy's fluid. Seedling Orchids : T. The first step is to get good, well-matured seed capules, and these are most successfully ripened it the plants bearing them are suspended near to the glass of the root or placed on a shelf in a house having an intermediate temperature. The fruits take a long time to ripen, and when fully matured the seed capules of such plants as Cattleyas should be cut oil, placed in strong paper or calico bags, and put on a shelf in a rather dry atmosphere to complete the last stage. When the seed-vessels split, the seed should be sown, or as much of it as is required, the remainder being kept dry for future use. The surface of the potting material of any other established Orchid which does not require drying off is a very good place to sow seed of Cypripediums and some other Or- chids. But if it is intended to raise seedlings in large numbers, it is best to have a rather roomy glass-covered case, arranged in a moist and warm part of the house. In this case, previously prepared pots should be arranged on which to sow the seeds, and the seeds sown when ready, and the crosses duly recorded. Various materials are used for sowing the seeds on. Some prepare pads of sphagnum-moss covered with coarse calico, or material like Orchid-house shading ; others use blocks of peat. Some use for Cattleyas, ic , pans of broken crocks with peat and charcoal on the surface, others discs of wood. When the arrangements are successful, the seedlings show signs of vitality by germi- nating in a few weeks, or it may be months. It appears that the seedlings will enter on the first stage on almost any material, but they often die off unaccountably afterwards. The object should be to get as many seedlings as possible into thimble-pots, four or five in a pot. The seeds should be sown on a previously- moistened surface, ani they should not be allowed to get dry. A sprayer is the best means of keeping the pots and material moist. Vanilla Culture : M. Considering the rela- tively small demand, the facility and cheapness of transit of the native pods, and the heat and expense requisite to grow the plant here, we do not think it would be profitable to embark in its culture in the Channel Islands. Try it on a small scale at first, in order that you may be able to form some idea of the risk involved. Vine Mildew : W. A correspondent who at our request made trial of Campbell's Patent Vapo- riser was thoroughly satisfied with the result, and recommends its use in glass-houses in which Grape-Vines, Peaches, Cucumbers, Eoses, Chrysanthemums, and similar plants are grown. The principle consists in heating the sulphur in a vessel having a funnel-shaped outlet, the tube of which is loosely closed by a pyriform hollow glass ball, which rises or falls according to the pressure of the hot sulphur vapour inside, thus allowing of the passage of the sulphur vapour, but at the same time prevent- ing the entrance of hot air into cylinders where it could set fire to the heated sulphur. Wiring Concrete Wall for Training Morello Cherries : J. S. The oak posts should be let into the ground 2 feet flush with the face of the wall and close up to it at each end, the soil being rammed firmly about them. This done, mark the positions of the several wires on both posts at inches apart, commencing 1 foot from the ground-line. Then drive the 3-inch galvanieed wrought-iron driving-eyes quite 2 ins. into the posts at the points indicated thereon. Strain a line from end to end, be- ginning at the bottom eyes, and then mark off the positions of the several holdfasts at 5 feet apart on the wall, repeating the operation until the positions of the supports for the top wire are indicated. These positions should be arranged so that the holdfasts will alter- nate in each succeeding row. They should be driven quite 2 inches into the concrete wall, which, it will be found the galvanised wrought- iron driving-eyes will pierce under the influence of due force. This will dispose of the expense and labour involved in plugging the wall as you have suggested. No. 14 gauge galvanised wire will answer your purpose in every respect. Having cut the necessary series of wire into lengths of, say, 102 feet C inches each, secure the ends of the inditidual wires to the holdfasts provided for them in the post at, say, the west end, and then thread them through the series of " driving - eyes," and secure to " screw - tightener," which pass through eye of holdfast driven into the post at the east end of wall and tighten up to the necessary degree of tightness. Owing to the great number of small branches and shoots that has to be manipulated in the training of trees of the Morello Cherry, the wires should not be farther apart than G inches; but 9 inches would do for Pears, Plums, and Sweet Cherries. Fixed as indicated above the wires will he about three-quarters of an inch from the face of the wall. We advise that galvanised wires attached to walls having south, east, and west aspects should be painted white or stone colour, in case the action of the sun on the galvanised wire might prove in- jurious to the shoots of the trees attached thereto ; but in your case, if the wall has a north aspect, it is immaterial whether you paint the wires or not. We should not expect trees of any kind to succeed well trained imme- diately upon or over galvanised iron roofs and fences. Communications Received.— VV. G. S.— W. Haokctt.— Koyal Dutch Bulb Growers' Soc— \V. H. \V.— \V. F.— II. W. W.— A. A. Wilding— A Beginner- G. ,1. Ingram — 11. Boshier— W. C. L. — Royal Botanic See. (with llianks)-VV. W.&Sons— J. D.-W. H. C.-.I. M.— F. .1. — F. .1. C— H. M.— G. Wythes— S. A.— II. Nelirliug, Florida— R. N. (many tliauks)- .1. H.— W. A. C— C. J. -Reader— F- M.— E. C. B.— Baron Schroeder. (For Markets and Weather, see pp. xiv. and xv.) >> ^ H z w t ) w Pi t/1 q 2 D O (li o > w 2 !n H Z 1-1 k^ ^ o pH ^; O o t/1 H w Pi CJ C) w cw Ph 71 < Pi a w 2 K H pi O o X U) :ri z ; ■S] < hj (-) ai z W < e u\ < w w ^ ni u ■—1 K ti Oh z C/J rrl O w 1 — ) Z o o -1 bn H o ^ z o w K H H w ►J O l-l o a o z < a w ■s r^ Q w W H Z < ^" -1 <; P. < » O 2 1s^, « Pi JXNUAKY 21, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 33 THE No. 9V3.— SATURDAY, Jan. 21, 190r,. CONTENTS. Agave amcncana m tlower 37 Alpine Garden— Arabis Ferdinaudi - Coburgi 35 Apple census, the ... 41 Apple Lane's Prince Albert 41 Apple Wyken Pippin ... 45 Auricula, the 38 Benevolent iQstitution, Gardeners' Royal ... 42 Books, uotices of — Cultureof Fruit Trees in Pots 45 Dictionnalre Icono- gi'aphique dcs Or- chidi^es 42 moras of India ... 41 ■German Nurscry- mcu's Address Book 43 Ratepayers' Guide .. 42 Cedrus Deodara var. alba spica 44 urs. Such varieties as Bobby, London, Shiner, Leveller, Ringer, Sur- prise, Blucher, &c„ will produce excellent fruits grown on this plan. THE ORCHID HOUSES. Bv W. H. YorN»i, Orchid . loochristi- ense, O. Wilckeanum, .tc, together with. the home- raised hybrids, 0. Harryano-crispum, O. Eolfese, O. ardentissimum, O. bellatulum, &c., should be placed in a favourable position at the warmei- end of the house, as their requirements coincide- with those of O. crispum. O. cirrhosum and O. elegans need rather more heat than the cool- house usually affords. When these plants are- approaching the fiowering stage the application, of water must be somewhat restricted, or growths will ensue instead of the production of flowering- spikes. O. hastilabium is another species that needs more favourable conditions with regard to- heat and light. This species suffers from pro- longed fiowering, and should signs of weakening appear, remove the flower - spikes at once, and keep the plants dry for a period. The application, of air to the cool-house at every available oppor- tunity cannot be too strongly urged, both roof and. wall ventilators should be used in mild weather, but when cold winds prevail restrict the ventila- tion to the lower openings. Whenever the out- side thermometer does not indicate a temperature- below 38°, a little bottom air should be permitted at night-time. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By W. A. Miller, Gardener to Lord Henry C. Bentinck, M.P., UnderleyHall, Westmoreland. Creepers on Walls. — If it is intended to plant these, fix the necessary wires and prepare the- borders for their reception. EstabUshed creepers- that require pruning and tying should be seen to,, taking care to make the cuts at an obtuse angle, and to place the tie neatly. Train the growth so that the wall can be discerned, as it adds to the effect if the creepers givea " traceried" appearance. Tender plants on walls, such as Ceanothus GIoir& de Versailles, Ceres, and Indigo ; Smilax asper- rima, Magnolia grandiflora, Abelia rupestris, &c., must be protected from frost. In addition to- well-known varieties of creepers, the following kiuds are also good : Vitis Coignetia;,this requires plenty of room, such as a sheltered gable — the colouring of its foliage is most brilliant ii* autumn ; Buddleia variabilis Veitchiana — this- is a marked improvement on the type ; Indigofera. Gerardiana — this plant flowers profusely ; Ela»ag- nus aureo-pictus, Schizophragma hydrangeoides, Jasminiun revolutum, Garrya elliptica, and Lar- dizabala biternata. The following plants, being: strong growers, are suitable for covering rough places or trees : — Polygonum Baldschuanicum, Lycium sinense, and Periploca grieca. Clematis, of the Jackmanni type should be cut back, leaving a few feet of last season's growth. Preparation for Seed-sowing. — As seed-time is. approaching have pans, boxes, and suitable soil put in readiness in order that sowing can be done- without delay. The compost should be got ready and placed under cover, and should consist of sifted friable loam, leaf-mould and sand thoroughly mixed together and passed through a Ij-inch sieve. Place suitable material for drainage in the pans, covering the drainage with some of the rougher soil. Make the soil in the seed-pans moderately firm, filling them to within 1 inch of the top. Sift a small layer of the compost through a ]-inch sieve into the seed- pan, make the surface level, and then sow the seed. Label the pans carefully, and next cover tho seed with some soil, using the |-inch sieve again. Make the surface firm, using a piece of board for the purpose. Water with a fine rose, or if the seed is very fine dip the pans for a few minutes in the tank. Shade till germination takes place. Fine, small seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and not covered. 40 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaby 21, 1905. EDITORIAL NOTICES. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C LMters for Publicatiorii as well as specimens and plants for naming, should he addressed to thf EDITOR, 41, Wellington 8treet, Covent Garden, London. Communications should be weitten on one bide only of THE PAPEB, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by the writer. If desired, the signature vHll not be planted, but kept as a guarantee of good faith. Special Notice to Correspondents.— rAf Editor does not undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or to return unusr'd communications or illustrations, unless by special arrang^'vient. The Editor does not hold himself re- sponsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents. ^\\ustrat\ons.'~-77ie Editor ivilt be glad to receive and to select photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of gardens, or of remarkable plants, fioicers, trees, other stocks ? Mr. W. B. Hemsley, of Kew, states in th& Botanical Magazine for September last that Mr Cant, of Colchester, was successful in flowering this- beautiful Rose; the Editor of the Gardeners- Chronicle, in a note on p. 211, also says, Mr. Cant found it no good, and does not grow it any longer. I presume that from the description given by Mr. Cant, aU who have seen the true R. gigantea will come to the conclusion that what Mr. Cant grew for Rosa gigantea was nothing of the kind. Some years before I got the true K. gigantea 1. bought two plants ; one died, but the other- flowered the second year, but it was not R. gigan^ tea, it was a single Eose of a pinkish- white colour-. jAJtUAEY 21, 1906.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 43 tind the foliage was more like that of Rosa sim- plex, and much smaller than that of R. gigantea. The very fine figure of this splendid Rose, given in ■the Gardeners' Chronicle on July 6, 1889, p. 13, filled me with enthusiasm to try to flower this gem. ■Crrow it I could, but to flower it in this country is not so easy a matter, although I believe ere long it will become one of the favourites in our Rose- gardens. I have had many conversations with travelled men, and ladies too, and they tell me we can have no conception what a grand sight this Hose presents when in flower in India and China ; 'but, like many other plants of note that are not much grown, there are spurious ones sold. As a ,great ti-aveller told me, unless this Rose is more KINGS WALDEN BUKY PARK. By stopping at Hitchiii station on the Great Northern Railway and proceeding about 6 miles, the visitor will arrive at the lovely residence of T. F. Harrison, Esq. The mansion has been restored by Mr. Harrison, who has made wonderful changes everywhere and in everything. New gardens have been made, new bothies and new cottages have been built, and a splendid parish-room added and furnished, the reading-room is provided with all kinds of indoor games, from dominos to billiards. In the summer the young men have the use of a fine cricket ground pro- Orchids include such useful species as Den- drobiums, Cattleyas, Oncidiums, and Cypri- pediums, besides others. Several houses are devoted to the forcing of Strawberries, French Beans, Tomatos, and Cucumbers. The vineries are planted with the varieties Muscat of Alexandria, Black Hamburgh, Madres- field Court, Appley Towers, Lady Downes', and others. In the Peach-houses are well-trained trees of the best varieties of this fruit and of Nectarines. Some good ranges of pits have been erected . A noticeable feature at these gardens is the recently-built fruit-room, which is the best that I have seen. It has two floors, an upper one for Fig. 23. — king's walden bury, Hertfordshire, the residence op t. f. Harrison, esq. igrowu there will remain a difficulty in obtaining it true, as he himself had seen several forms sold .as E. gigantea. Two years ago a nurseryman wrote me a very iind letter from Naples, asking me how to flower •this Rose, as he had failed ; but being iU at the time, I was unable to answer him, the letter being lost ; but as he was evidently a regular reader of the Gardeners' Chronicle, I trust he may see now why he received no reply. Although I think this Rose would grow and flower well in and around -Naples, I am given to understand Rosa sinioa and tits form Itevigata is by many grown as E. gigantea 'iu parts of Southern Europe ; yet the two are -quite distinct. W. C. Leach, Albm-y Gardens, ■Guildford. [At Kew this Rose has, we believe, -not flowered, though it grows vigorously. The KConditions in this country ajjpear not to be favour- «,ble, though at Cannes, in Lord Brougham's ^garden, it has produced its splendid blooms. Ed.] vided with dressing-rooms, itc, and the whole overlooks the splendid grounds and lawns of the owner, who also joins in the games. New walls have been built around the gardens and the choicest fruit-trees are planted against them. The glass department consists of about thirty houses, which are all modern. One lot was built by Messrs. Gray, of Chelsea, and forms a block of twelve divisions. In the greenhouses such flowering plants as Carnations, Lilies, Spirajas, Amaryllis, Primulas, and Cinerarias make a fine show early in the year. In the stove, that beautiful Begonia, Gloire de Sceaux, is cultivated very successfully. Palme, Ferns, and Codia^ums are well grown, and Aspa- ragus Sprengeri throws sprays 10 to 12 feet long from a basket suspended from the roof. Many plants are grown for supplying flowers tor cutting, such as Eucharis and Gardenias. Regal and zonal Pelargoniums are a feature. The Pears, and the other for Apples : the size of each room is 3U feet by 20 feet. The structure is built on sloping ground, so that both rooms are reached from the ground-level. The wiills are hollow, and double doors are provided, the inner one being of glass. A stage is erected in the centre with side stages all around. Tlie roof is thatched with a rare thickness of reed, and is a marvel of good workmanship. In the kitchen-garden, which has been made, hundreds of cartloads of soil have been brought from the park, as the natm\al soil is on gravel. A grass path runs down the centre, and on either side of this path are choice herbaceous plants and Roses. On the south waU is a good collec- tion of Peaches and Nectarines. Leaving the kitchen-garden the visitor crosses the road and enters the hawn, the entrance to wliich has been covered by an oak pergola some 70 yards long, which has been planted with u TEE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. fjAKCAEY 21, 19C5. Roses, Vines, and other 'choice climbing plants. The Rose-garden is composed of large beds and arches for climbing and pillar Roses, and some extraordinary results have been obtained here, the plants making growths of from 10 to 15 feet in a season. All the beds were freshly soiled before Roses were planted, and all varieties make very healthy and vigorous growth. Quite recently many additions have again been made to the rosary ; eight large beds have been planted, and trees, pillars, &c., covered. Some fine chimps of choice shrubs have been planted each year for ten years past. Amongst the many trees and shrubs that succeed well are Garrya elliptica, 6 feet by 7 feet, and in perfect health ; Betula Youngii, Choisya temata, 8 feet high ; Prunns in variety, Cupres- sug Lawsoniana Intea, Pinus excelsa, Sciadopitys vertioillata (Umbrella Pine), Thuja dolabrata, Cupressus Lawsoniana var. Alumi, Abies concolor, A. nobilis glauca. Weeping Elm, and Beech. Willows are very effective by the lake, which has been made at the end of the lawn. A "wired-in fruit garden has been made near the stables. It is divided up by grass paths, and at each corner and in the centre are huge wire arches, over which are trailing Clematis. In this fruit garden are several hundred fruit-trees, in- cluding collections of Pears, Cherries, Plums, Apples, Raspberries, Strawberries, and Currants, each having a plot to itself. Close by is the village church, a fine old struc- ture, and here the Squire personally assists in the services, and some time ago provided a new organ at a cost of about i;i,000. In the park are some very fine Oaka of great ■ age, but most of them are long since past their prime ; there were plenty measuring 20 feet in circumference. A new avenue has been planted by a drive leading to the house, and the trees have made a good start. Mr. Hartless, the gar- dener, has had much uphill work to accomplish, but he has done it successfully, having a good and generous master. This makes hard work a pleasure to him. W. A. Coot. HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the opinions expressed by his Correspondents. ) APPLE LANE'S PRINCE ALBERT.— I was much Interested in the remarks by Mr. Gerrish on p. 419 in your issue for December 17, 190-t, on that excellent Apple Lane's Prince Albert, but I cannot quite agree with him when he says it is a better cropper than Newton Wonder. I have gi'owing in one of my gardens under the same state of cultivation the varieties Bismarck, Newton Wonder, Lane's Prince Albert, Alfriston, and Bramley's Seedling. These trees all receive the same amount of feeding, whether it is stable or artificial manure, and certainly for the last five years both Alfriston and Newton Wonder have beaten Lane's Prince Albert in cropping qualities, although the last-named variety has yielded better crops than Bramley's Seedling and Bismarck. I am not writing to depreciate Lane's Prince Albert, but I give the result of my experi- ence with these varieties. In the matter of keeping, Newton Wonder is with me an easy first. I have never been able to keep fruits of Lane's Prince Albert till March ; with me they never keep longer than January. I hope this letter may be the means of other growers giving their views on this Apple, its cropping capabilities, &e. I am sorry to say that Mr. William Taylor, the raiser of Newton Wonder, is very seriously ill, and has not left his bed for several months. Thomas Salslwry, King's Newton, near Derby. CEDRUS DEODARA VAR. ALBA SPICA.— This variety of the Indian Cedar promises to prove an excellent tree for planting in groups, or as specimen trees for effect. During the spring and early summer months the growing shoots, for 6 or 9 inches of their length, are of a milky-white colour. In most Conifers variegation is a sign of weakness, but in this case it] does not seem to obtain, for our trees are making splendid 'growth each year. Should the variety prove constant, the effect of trees when they attain a height of 40 or 50 feet will be very effective. C. Page, Bropmore. CRYPTOMERIA JAPONICA.— I have to - day measured a specimen tree of this species which was growing in the Pinetum here, and which had to be removed in order to allow more space to the fine Abies Brunouiana, well known to many of your readers. The dimensions were : height, 68 feet inches ; girth (at 5 feet), 5 feet 9 inches ; at the ground line, 7 feet 3 inches. This tree was planted in 18i7, three years after its introduction by Fortime, and must therefore be one of the oldest specimens in the country. It would be very interesting to know the measure- ments of other living specimens planted about the same date. The tree was in perfect health with branches to the ground-line. It is a great pity that many fine Conifers have been planted in gardens without thought being given to their future development. Philip Frost, I believe, always advocated plenty of room, but did not always succeed in obtaining it for his favourites. C. Page, Dropmore Gardens, Bueks. THE TRAINING OF YOUNG GARDENERS. — On p. 14 " J. G. W. " thinks I might have pointed out somewhat more clearly in my previous note the remarks in his on p. 411 to which I took exception. I plainly stated that with which I did not agree, and also gave my reasons for so doing. " J. G. W. " in his remarks misrepresented the value of the different departments in the garden, and also the standard of young English gardeners. The theory which he puts forward of bedding with perennials, and thus saving much labour and room in the glass department, has nothing new about it, but in most gardens is quite impracticable, if not altogether undesirable. Few gardeners nowadays enjoy the privilege of bedding with material that comes easiest to hand. Although employers usually appreciate perennials about the pleasiu-e-grounds, in the borders, &c., I question if many of them would like to see the parterre, the terrace, or the flower- garden adjoining the mansion filled with them ; and would it not create too much of a sameness in the garden ? Again, most perennials, from their habit of growth and the short time they remain at their best, are altogether unsuitable for summer bedding. Evidently " J. G. W. " has no alternative that would save us from utilising glass for the forcing of many choice vegetables and salads during winter and spring, as he has said not a word on this subject. IV.C.R. FALL IN POTATO PRICES. — How clearly is it shown that sanity is once more beginning to govern the prices asked for new varieties of Potatos, when we see Northern Star offered in the columns of the Gardeners' Chronicle at 10s. per cwt., or but a fraction over Id. per lb. How indeed have the mighty fallen ! That offer may well merit the attention of others who ask prices varying from Gii. to 3s. 6d. per lb. for this greatly over- praised variety. A Hampshire grower offered me the variety at 5s. per bushel, and he would be very glad to sell at that price. Should not this fact do much to help to kill that gross infla- tion of prices which so astonished sane people during the past year ? Certainly no variety of Potato ever raised was worthy the prices said to have been paid during the past year. All this booming and fooling of purchasers does no good in the end, but much harm, as only disappoint- ment can follow when wonderful swans are after all found to be very common ducks. A. Dean. FACTS AND FANCIES IN FORESTRY.— The other day, a forestry lecturer told a Carlisle audience, presided over by Sir WUfrid Lawson, that " from IS inches to 3 feet was the minimum depth at which they could plant forest trees." It is Brown, of course, who dwelt on the importance of " great depth," drawing erroneous conclusions from farm and garden crops. The above "mini- mum depth " at once rubs out most of the millions of acres of waste land proposed to be planted, for it may be safely asserted that a very small portion of our poor waste lands have more than or 9 inches depth of soil. and the above " minimum " would appropriate al3 the deepest and best agricultural land. A few weeks earlier, Mr. Augustine Henry, lecturing ott' forestry also, at Castle Douglas, N.B., told his. audience "that soil detei mined the species of trees to be grown, and that was about all_ Forests grew where there was scarcely any soil. They knew of paying forests where there was- nothing but bare, solid rock." Both extracts are from a Northern contemporary, and are charac- teristic of the old and new schools. I do not feeb sure about the " bare rock " idea, but Dr. Henry is much nearer the mark, and apparently better informed than the Carlisle lecturer. It is simply astonishing where big trees of all kinds are found, growing on solid rock with the scantiest sod over it — whinstone and granite rock, too — as in Can*- berlaud, Kirkcudbright, and Aberdeen. Where I live, in the South Yorkshire uplands, over large tracts it is difficult to get a spade down deeper than 9 inches owing to the presence of solid rock,, and the depth of soil is less than that in many places ; yet all over this district once stood the' finest Oak forests in Britain, described by Evelyn, as probably "not excelled in Christendom," so straight and big were the trees. Other and later- estate records testify the same thing, and plenty of fine trees show that the deep-soil theory is a . pure fiction. J. 8. THE APPLE SELECTION.— To all your readers^ native or foreign, this must have been ef great, interest. But to give a complete answer to the- question, " What Apples shall we plani ? '~ we« must first know the merits and demerits of the-- particular varieties we intend to plant. I do not. know any book on Apples that treats this matter- fully. 'That excellent book, Hogg's Fruit JSanual,.. is not a guide in this way. If you, Mr. Editor ,_ would spare some space every week to the lieces- sary complement of the census of Apples, wiit ten by your best pomologists or growers, I believe thisa would be of interest and great benefit to all fruit- growers. For instance, if Beauty oi Bath is im. many ways preferable to Irish Peaeb, which belongs to the best six dessert Apples, or Keswick; Codlin to Ecklinville Seedling, because the last- named is too soft and very liable to spot, a com- ment is highly necessary. I should lik® to see- the varieties judged in the following way : — 1-. fruitfulness ; 2, growth, liability to can4er and*; spot or otherwise ; 3, quality, siae, colour ; 4^, suitability for market or not ; 5, kind of soil and. position wanted, i?. G. van Heyst, Wyk-by~ Duurstede, Holland. [Our columns are open to the discussion of this and other practical matters,, subject only to the limitations imposed by circum- stances. Ed.] CHRYSANTHEMUM MRS. SWTNBtfRNE AND ITS SPORT [see p. 28]. — Although white-fk>wered'- Japanese Chrysanthemums are numerous Mrs.. Sv/inburne is so distinct from all others that:, it is certain to become a popular variety, especially for late flowering. The florets are-- distinctly ribbed or fluted. They are semi-droop- ing, and build up a full solid flower that is at- once attractive. The pearly-white colour is quite' distinct from any other variety known to me. The yellow sport, Mrs. Beech, is an exact counter- part of its parent, except in colour. E. Molyneu.e. HOLLYHOCKS.— I find the easiest way to pro- cure an annual display of Hollyhocks is to plant- at the end of March robust seedlings raised from/ seed sown in the previous May. Such plants can- be bought quite cheaply in either single or double- varieties, and if these are planted in deeply-dug- and heavily-manured soil in an open position,, and encouraged to grow vigorously, spikes of flowers 12 feet in length are easily obtained.. After the flowering period is passed I dig up the plants and throw them away, as I find the second year they are quite useless, being smothered withi fungi, and weakly in growth. As this system is so simple I do not trouble about the fungus,, for during the first season of planting it does- not affect them so far as their flowering is con-- cerned, although a few of the lower leaves may be disfigured. Hollyhocks prefer an open posi- tion where they can have an abundance of air-, overcrowding they abhor. Abundance of mois- ture at the roots during dry weather is a gain tc- growth, which cannot be too vigorous. I gave-: January 21, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 45 the singled-flowertd varieties a good trial, bat think them very poor and not nearly so effective as a Mallow in the border. I now grow none but donbled-flowered varieties. E. M. MYROBALAN PLUM. — As a substitute for Quickthorn I also largely planted this Plum in Scotland, on the west coast — in fact, the west coast of the outer Hebrides — where the soil is of the poorest nature, peaty and wet, and the situa- tion of terrible bleakness, being just on the sea- shore, and open to all the terrible north-west gales that sweep across the Atlantic. My experience is exactly the opposite to that of Mr. Duncan, mentioned on p. 29. Although planted in such an exposed situation, the Myrobalan often made shoots from 7 to 8 feet in length in one season. I have not tried the plant in England, but if I desired a quick-growing hedge I would withoiit hesitation plant the Myrobalan Plum. It is ornamental as well as useful, and retains its leaves much longer than Thorn — at least it did so in the outer islands of Scotland, where the thermometer very seldom registered more than 3° or 4° of frost during the winter, but might not do so in places more inland. Grigor Roy. I cannot agree with Mr. Ward that this Plum is superior to Quickthorn for hedging pur- poses, and my experience leads me to say that it is not nearly so good for hedges as a well- managed " Quick," though to see a well - cultivated hedge of the latter is indeed a rarity. This arises from two common mistakes, viz., the planting of double rows of plants lOjinches apart, and neglecting hard pruning at the start. The result is, under such conditions, a "thin" fence at the bottom, and one that occupies too much space. A single row gives much the best result. Plant three Quicks to every foot of ground, and prune them down to within 4 inches of their base when planted, and do not wait twelve months, as advised by Mr. Ward. I look upon this delay as a waste of time. The Myrobalan Plum will grow much more rapidly than " Quicks," but I have never seen a thick base to any hedge made with this subject. There are many persons who plant Quickthorn in a slipshod fashion, and then expect a quick growth; whereas if the site had been trenched and manured freely at the time of planting, the difference in the growth would have been percep- tible. Too often the base of the hedge is allowed to become choked with weeds and grass, which not only prevent growth, but rob the roots of nutriment and moisture to an astonishing extent. E.M. A few years ago I had charge of a place where an impenetrable fence was wanted to enclose part of the grounds. We trenched the ground 2 feet deep and about 18 inches wide, working in a quantity of good manure. In the autumn we planted the Myrobalan Plum about G inches apart zigzag in the rows, and the follow- ing autumn we cut the plants down to about 18 inches from the ground, in order to obtsiin a good foundation in the hedge. We trimmed the hedge annually, and also cleansed and mulched the plants with good manure every autumn ; at the end of five years we had a thick impenetrable hedge 5 feet (J inches in height. To prevent rabbits from attacking the plants, we used wire staked all round the outside of the hedge. I may state that cattle as well as rabbits and hares are fond of the plant. A. R. Pearce, Kenilworth. My experience with the Myrobalan Plum differs somewhat from that related by correspondents on p. 29. Having to resusci- tate several old fences here, I planted this Plum rather freely three or four years ago, and while it is distinctly useful for filling gaps and growing in an old hedge -bottom where Quicks will not grow, I should not think of substituting it for Quick in a new fence, or in portions of a hedge that can be cleaned out and trenched, in which case in my experience Quick or Quick and Holly have no equal. At the" same time the Myrobalan is a useful plant in many places where the Thorn will not grow well, and associated with Privet will fill many an unsightly gap under trees and in wet, boggy land. I cannot say even with judicious cutting back that I have found it so impenetrable as it is described by Mr. Ward. B. Jenkins, AcasUr Malbis, York, APPLE WYKEN PIPPIN. — John Rogers, in his 'Fruit Cultivator (ls;il), mentions, as Mr. W. Miller does, the place of origin of this nice but now little grown dessert Apple as being near Coventry. Kogers states that he saw the original tree forty years previously, and that it was then in a state of decay. That would of course be long prior to Lindley's view of the tree in 1827, when it was merely an old tiunk. Dr. Hogg writes of the flavour of Wyken Pippin in rather glowing terms, as delicious and first-rate. Kogers was content to say of it, " juice not abundant, but very agreeable ; " but much would depend on the culture under which the respective fruits were grown. I had an old tree of the variety under my charge forty years ago, and it was then a splendid cropper, the fiuits were of a suitable size for dessert, clean and handsome. We then thought it to be one of the very best-flavoured Apples. It is worthy of remark that when well matured the fruits keep well into the new year. It is a good Apple almost forgotten. A. D. Mr. Miller may lament the preference for Worcester Pearmain over Wyken Pippin, but the fact remains that as a market Apple the latter is almost useless, while the former will realise prob- ably more money than any other variety of Apple. Of course there are two ways of looking at Apples — for home consumption and for profit. For the latter purpose it is the showy varieties that are required, dull-looking fruit, no matter how good in point of flavour, is quite useless for sale in shops. Highly-coloured although poorly flavoured examples are freely purchased by the British public. E. M. BOOK NOTICE. ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS. PLATYCLINIS (DENDROCHILUM) UNCATA. A FINE, healthy plant of this rare and, pretty species is now in flower at Burford. "When seen with only two or three spikes of flowers, there is little to recommend it; int the plant under notice, with aboiit forty spikes of its graceful pendulous racemes, is one of the prettiest Orchids for use as a specimen or the table or drawing- room. The flowering racemes are about 10 inches in length ; the individual flowers are small and numerous, and of a greenish-yellow shade. Coming from the Philippine Islands, one would naturally suppose that the plant would require the highest temperature available in Orchid- houses, but after repeated trials it has leen found to thrive better if suspended in a cool, ehady part of what is familiarly called the inter- mediate-house. In this house the foliage is not so liable to attacks of red-spider as it is when grown in a warmer temperature. CiREOPETALUM MeDUS^. In the Gardeners' Chronicle for January 9,1897, p. 25, a fine illustration was given of the Malayan Cirropetalum Medusa*, with eleven spikes of flowers. The plant is now again in flower at Burford, having fifteen equally good spikes. It is a curious and interesting species. The scapes are nearly erect, and tear upon their apex a large, dense, globose clusttn* of flowers, which are cream-coloured, freckled with pink, the two lateral sepals of each flower being so lengthened out as to give the spike the appearance of a head with very long, dishevelled hair. This species was introduced from Singapore by Messrs. Loddiges in 1841. The plant now in bloom has been in Sir Trevor Lawrence's collection since 1878. Angr^cum distichum. A large, healthy specimen of this rare species is also in flower. The flowers are produced singly and in pairs from the axils of the imbricated leaves; they are small, but of snowy whitenos?, and are very sweetly scented, especially at night. Altogether there are about a thousand flowers open on the plant, which forms a charming and attractive object in the warm-house. It is a native of the west coast of Africa. W. H. If., Burford Gardens^ Dorking, January 6, ThE Culture of Fruit Trees in Fots. By ^ [J. Biace, i^Jolin Muiray.) Pn'ce 5s. This book, writien as it is ly a ILcrtrgLTy practical fiuit-gicwer, and cne'\\ho l:aedevot*rt the best jears of his life tolhis partitular branch of fiuit-culture in the nuistries of Mtf^re. Kivers, contains within its 110 pages the "^ery essence of pot fruit-iree cultivation, which is now, after a lapse of more than fifty years ^rom its inception, becoming more and more appreci- ated by amateurs and by piactical gardeners. The -R riter of this notice started this f ye- tem of culture nearly ten yeais back with a, prejudice against its practical utiUty for the actual supply of choice dessert fruits of varioi>s kinds, more especially for early forcing and for late supplies. He was soon convinced of his en or in more ways than one, and is now a strong advocate of the system. The author treats the" subject in a plain aiyd practical fashion and in such a way tbat it be- comes not only interesting but most instructive. With the ease gained by experience he deals with the varied phases which fruit-trees in pots must pass through to ensure success. The opening chapter treats upon the houses and their constiuction, position, soils, itc, as well as vitk the cost of erection, which is essential. This is followed by the method of furnishing of the houses with trees. Here the caution against overcrowding should te particularly lotcd, and a word from the writer may not be out (f place upon this subject, viz. — it is a fallacy to suppose that pot trees can be successfully grown from start to finish under the shade of other trees — started they may be, but a speedy jiro- ■vision must be made for light and air as scon as leaf-growth commences. The advice as to separate compaitments and the advantages thus afforded is sound, and such compartments should whtrei ex possible be provided. The third chapter of the book should he read and re-read by everyone who contemplates this method of cultivation. It gives the best possible advice, which may be safely followed not only by those who are commencing, but by those who have already done something in this way. To the latter will be made plain the locks upon \^h;C■h their expectations have been wrecked. The re- marks upon the longevity of the trees should be specially noted. This is a point that thevriter has frequently had to es plain to enquirers who have erroneously supposed that the trees are short-lived, and he has pointed out trees^ both of Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums, that have been forced continuously for ten years, and of Cherries for a somewhat shorter period. The chapter upon varieties might fairly have been extended, so as to have included those grand Nectarines Cardinal and Early Kivers, which are invaluable for early forcing, so also might that of Plums, especially of late kinds. Beginners and others should note the advice upon such a simple matter as "gathering the fruits " — it is sound. The question of insects and their extermination, is fully discussed in a clear manner. This ia a matter which if cnce grasped will save infinite trouble and annoyance. The calendar of operations for each month in the year for the unhealed house is replete with sound advice, which the author in a future edition might well supplement with his practical knowledge of forcing. The plans given of suggested erections are explicit in detail, whilst the examples both of shoots as regards pruninjj, and of trees in respect to training are admiral le. The author may be congratulated upon his work in general, and more especially upoir the cultural details that he has so clearly laid down. The numerous illustrations add materially to th»i value of the work. 40 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jakuaey 21, 1905. PLANT NOTES. LOBELIA TENDIOE. Now that the time for ordering seeds lias arrived, I would say to those that may not have had the opportunity of seeing this charming species of Lobelia in flowerj that it is exceedingly useful for conservatory decoration during the spi-ing and summer months, and also for the draping of vases in the open garden. The habit of the plant is slender and graceful, and it has lovely blue flowers with white centre, the individual blooms measuring 1| inch in diameter. The plants grow 2 feet in height, and the profusion and duration of the flowers is remarkable. They close at night and open again in the morning, to all appearance with renewed brightness. W. Fyfe. [See illustration in our issue for January 19, 1901, p. 40. Ed.] Eehmannia angulata. This new half-hardy herbaceous perennial plant grows well under the most simple culture, and is still in flower here. The flower-spikes measure upwards of 3 feet in length, and the plants continue to flower for months. Jl'. Fyfe, Locldnge Gardens, Wantage. [See Supplement in our issueifor May 9, 1003. Ed.] Caepoltza spieali.s. This pretty little South African bulbous plant is seldom seen except in botanic gardens. It does not make a great show, but is interesting on account of the spiral twisting of the lower part of the thread-like flower-scape, the spiral probably being produced for the purpose of giving rigidity to the slender scape, which otherwise would hardly be able to hold itself erect. The bulb is oval, about j of an inch long, and produces about eight dark-green filiform leaves from 4 to C inches long. The scape is filiform, from 4 to 6 inches high, the lower half being spirally twisted, and of reddish colour ; the upper half of the scape is quite straight, bearing an umbel of from three to six flowers on i^edicels 1 to 2 inches long. The flowers are white, tinged witli red on the outside, and are nearly J of an inch in diameter. In the Cambridge Botanic Garden they are afforded the same treatment as Ixias and Freesias, seven or eight bidbs being planted in a 5-inch pot. They are now flowering, and prove interesting subjects for the cool greenhouse, where they last in good condition for several weeks. The plant is figured in the Botanical Miiga::ine, t. 1383. It is also inovm under the genus Hessea. E. J. Allard, Botanic Gardens, Cambridge. Tacsonia Volxemi. In the Tacsonia Volxemi, first described and figured in these columns, we have one of the most beautiful conservatory climbers in culti- vation. Its brilliant crimson flowers on long thread-like footstalks depending loosely from the root trellis are everything that can be desired in a conservator^' climber. It is easily raised from seed sown on any light sandy soil, covered to the thickness of about a quarter of an inch (the seed- ling being large) with some of the same kind of mould, placed in heat and watered. If the seed is good the young plants will appear within a fortnight 6r three weeks from the time of sowing. They should as soon as large enough to handle be placed singly in 3-inch pots in a mixture of four parts fibrous loam and one of leaf-mould, with a sprinkling of sharp sand added, retui-ned to heat, and watered. Shift the plants into ij-inch pots before the roots become matted, and grow them on until about 3 or 4 feet high, when they should be planted out in a narrow, well-drained border or a 12-inch pot, training the growths loosely to the roof of a greenhouse or conservatory. The best com- post is formed of three parts fibrous loam and one of peat with a good sprinkling of sand. When weU established thin the shoots, but do not stop them. The plant may also be increased by cuttings put in in the ordinary way. H. W. Ward. TkACHELIDM CiEEULEUM (BlUE ThROATWOET). This attractive perennial from the Mediterra- nean region belongs to the Campanula family. It is not only a very attractive border plant, but is also one that deserves to be grown in pots. It is a sub-shrubby branching plant from 20 to 36 inches high, producing in summer large clusters of pale blue flowers. Grown in pots, Trachelium cceruleum will compare favourably with Static* profusa, which plant it resembles in habit of growth, form, and colour of flower, either set up in a misceUaneous collection of plants in the exhibition-tent, or for the decoration of the green- house and conservatory. It is also a suitable plant for vases. It is easily propagated by seed, cuttings, or division of the roots. The latter is the best and certainly the quickest way of working up a stock, potting up the divisions in spring in suitable - sized and properly -drained pots, in three parts light loam and one of leaf-soil, with sufficient sharp sand added to render the whole somewhat porous. The plants should be after- wards grown on in a cold pit or frame like Spii'a?as and such-like plants, transferring them to the greenhouse in due time. H. W. W. CULTURAL MEMORANDA. LOBELIA QUEEN VICTORIA. In order to obtain a large stock of these plants tor flowering well the first season, it is advisable to sow the seed earlier than is usually recom- mended, in order to allow the seedlings ample time to develop into strong plants before planting them in the open. When a good stock has been obtained, no difficulty will be experienced in keeping up the required quantity by division of the old plants. Sow the seed moderately thin in clean, well-drained pans, filled to within half an inch of the rim with good, fresh sandy loam, pressed moderately firm. Do not bury the seed too deeply, but cover the seed-pans with a square of glass. During the period when the seeds are germinating the soil must not be kept too moist. Place the pans in a moderate temperatm'e near the glass until the seedlings appear, after which time the glass covers should be gradually removed. Prick-out the seedlings when large enough into other pans, and finally pot them singly in small pots to be grown-on and gradually hardened off prior to planting them in the open. Although with suitable convenience these plants may be raised later, I have always found it the better plan with perennials to sow early, and have the plants nicely forward before the sun- heat is too poweiful. June and July are suitable months for raising these plants from seed sown in cold frames. H. Marl-ham, Wrotham Park, Barnct. COLONIAL NOTES. - — ^ TRANSVAAL PLANTS. It has occurred to me that some of your readers may be interested in the ornamental flowers of the Transvaal veldt, many of which, though apparently unknown in English gardens, are fully as showy and worthy of attention as many of the Californian species which are such old favourites at home. There is one important difference between the ornamental species of the two countries which may have something to do with the widespread cultivation of the one and the general neglect, if such it be, of the other. Those of California are largely annuals — Gilias, Phacelias, CoUomias, Godetias, Eschscholtzias, and the like : those of the Transvaal are mainly perennials — often deep-rooted, and transplanted and grown less easily — Ipomceas, Vignas, Tephrosias, Lasiosiphons, Gomphocarpi, Eulo- phias, Gazanias, Dimorphothecas, Gerberas, and the like. Perhaps, as seems to be the case with those species of the genus Dimorphotheca already in cultivation, they need protection in an English winter ; but I scarcely think that many of them would need greenhouse treatment, unless possibly to protect them from excessive moisture during the dormant season. On their native veldt, many of these plants have to stand winter- night temperatures of 22° Fahr. (10° of frost), and in some places as low as 7° Fahr. (25° of frost) is recorded. The high veldt is mainly treeless, and exposed to the full sweep of bitterly cold winter winds ; but at this period of the year the plants are naturally dormant, and their roots are deeply buried in the soil. Another condition which would be difficult to reproduce in England, and which might be necessary to successful cultivation, is the dryness of the long winter season, during which the plants remain dormant ; during the past season over much of the Transvaal we had no rain heavy enough to wet the soil below 2 inches for over six months (April to October inclusive). When the November showers came, the tardy spring flowers appeared with a rush; many deep-rooted species did not wait for the rains however, but were able to flower early, probably owing to special structural arrangements and deep-rooting habits. I hope to describe a few of our more showy perennials in subsequent letters. Jos. Burtt-Davy, Government Agrostologist and Botanist. PLANT POKTRAIT. Rose Madame Norhert Levavasskur.— Stated to have originated as a cross between Crimson Kambler anj^Gloirc des Polvantha, both forms of K. polyantha. The flowers are rich crimson-red. Gnrtcnt^ora, Januaiv. SOCIETIES, LAW NOTE. WITHDRAWAL OF AN APPEAL Under Section 17 of the Pharmacy Act, 1668. Notice has been ^iven of the discontinuance of an appeal from the decision of the Lord Mayor on August 8 last upon the tliree summonses taken out l>y the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain under Section 17 of the Act of 18G8. The Lord Mayor then imposed three fines of ^5, Is., and Is. : with five guineas costs to the Society, for selling XL-All Insecticide, containing nicotine, without the bottle being distinctly labelled '' Poison.'^ The other summonses were for selling to a person iinknown, and for not making proper entry of the particulars of sale as required by Section 17, ROYAL CALEDONIAN HORTICULTURAL. The Annual General Muotiug of the above Society was held in Edinbiu-gh on "Wednesday, 11th inst. The Council's report showed a very large increase in the number of entries both at the spring and autumn shows, that arrangements had Ijeen almost completed for the international show, and tliat the schedule which will be issued shortly will contain a number of new features not included in any show formerly held by the Society. In framing the schedule it had been tiie aim of the Council to endeavour to stimulate all branches of horticulture, whether cultural or in the domain of scientific investigation and experiment. The Council also reported that they intended shortly to revive the publication of papers dealing with horti- cultural subjects, which had been started in tiie early days of the Societ}', but shortly thereafter discontinued. The financial statement showed a successful state of ; affairs, the excess of income over ex])cnditm*e for the i year to November 30 last lieing £123. The Chairman, Mr. AV. H. Massie, appealed to the members to en- deavour to secure new members and to do all that was possible to strengthen the Society in view of the international show to be held in September. P. M. T, JANTTARY 21, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 47 SOCIETE FRANCAISE D'HORTI- CULTURE DE LONDRES. January 14. — The annual banquet of this Society, started sixteen rears ago, with the object of bringing together and encouraging the .young French-speaking gardeners who come to England to improve their knowledge of horticulture, was held at the Caf*^ Royal, Regent Street, on the above date, and was in every respect a decided success. ]\I. Pliilippe de Vilmorin, who had come specially from Paris to preside, won the sympathy of all the persons who assembled to do honour to the Chairman, and to show their appre- ciation of the work done by the Society. After the loyal toascis, "The President of the French Republic" and *'The King,'* the Chairman, in a vigorous and verj" concise speech, after reviewing the progress of the Institution, urged the young members to work with a will, and by their good conduct to strive to deserve the good feeling which, he said, is showii to them by the British nation in general and by their various in this country. M. Alfred P. Huguenet, Directeur- Redacteur of the only French weekly paper pub- lished in London, La GhronvjV,, also addressed the meeting. To that joiimal wt are indebted for the opportunity of publishing the ]>ortrait of M. de Vilmorin. One of the young French members, M. Serra, in the name of all his colleagues, thanked the Chairman for his devotion to their cause, and the English nursery- men and the English horticultural Press for their valuable help. Mr. Geo. Gordon responded to this last toast. Among the company, which numbered seventy-nine, we noticed, besides the speakers, Messrs. Ed. Sherwood, T. Bevan, Percy Waterer, AV". Howe, Bi'ian Wynne, Hawes, Hielile, E. Such, D. Ingamells, Collingridge, AVithy, Tyler, Drost, R. C. Tucker, J. Gaskill. Mr. G. Sclnieider announced tlie adhesion of many life members, also of honorary, titular, and correspon- dent members, and in appropriate terms cordially thanked his young friends for the liandsome present which they made liim on this occasion, and wliich he greatly appreciated. M. PHILIPPE DE VILMORIN, umi.ioyei-s in particular. He laid great stress on the benefit which they derive from their belonging to the Society, which is presided over by Mr. G. Schneider, whose time and experience are so generously placed at their disposal. Mr. Schneider in reply to the Chairman's toast said that not only the Society placed young French gar- deners here, but also made a special feature of placing young English gardeners abroad, and had been very successful in that respect. They had placed in France many of the young Englishmen who were present on this occasion. The Society is in a very flourishing con- 'litHin, and this is largely due to the good fellowship existing between Englisli employers and emplonvs. He then read letters from Messrs. Leon GeoffraY,'Ministre de France, Dr. M. T. Masters, Harry J. Veitch, tutbush, Geo. Nicholson, and Wm. Robinson, ex- ['Ms.sing their regret at being unable to be present on tilts occasion. 'i here were present a goodly number of members of '■\y National Chrysanthemum Society, to whom young 'I'licli gardeners are indebted for the present good '■ ihonof their Society. Mr. C. Harman-Payno paid t tribute to the illustrious family of De Vilmorin, M mber of which was in relation with the Koval i^Mricultural Society at the time of the foundation of iiiit Society in bS04 ; this was M. Pierre Philippe de ^ iliiionn, the Chairman's great-grandfather. M. Edouard Sove, Belgian Consul-General, also n-l.iressed the company, thanking the Association for yi'' great advantages which his yo\mg counti'yjnen 'I' I i\ed from their connection with it during their stay GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES. BATH GARDENERS' SELF HELP AND DEBATING.— The first sntoking concert of tlie Hiith Gardeners' Solf- help and Debating Socieiy wns lield on Monday, Janu- ary 9, at tlie Foresters' Hal], liuUi. Dr. Paton, one of I lie vice-presidents, occupied the clmir, the meeting being well attended. During the Interval a presentation was made to the cliairiiian of the Society, Mr. Parrott, by Dr. Paton, who expressed liis pleasure at the progress the Society was making. He telt that such meetings for social intercourse must in the end tend to benelit everyone who attended litem. Mr. Parrott in response thanked llie gathering heartily for the present and acknowledged the work of Mr. McLaren and Mr. Butt in the iormation of the Society and the great help rendered by the Committee. Although only three moutlis old the Society had a niemhcrsliip of lis, which he thought u-as excellent, but they hoped to double or treble tliat number by next year. Dr. Paton left at this stage, and Mr. Parrolt presided during the rest of the proceedings. 0. 6. McL. BATH AND DISTRICT GARDENERS IMPROVE- MENT.— The monthly meeting oi the members of tili^^ Association was held on January 12, when Mr. \V. F. Cooling presided over a satisfacUny attcudauce. E\crl- lent exhibits of Iruils and vcpclaltlos were staged, while prominontly placed on the tabic was a beautiful Iniuch of Iris slylosa from the open air. a remarkable fact, considering the time of the year, In the usual compe- tition hold, prizes were awarded lo Mrs. Tollcmachc for a collection of vegetables, and lo Mr. K. B. Cater for Primulas, Mr. Curtis gave an address, the subject of which was -'Stove Plants." CARDIFF GARDENERS.'— The opening- meelitig of this Society for the new year took place at the Sand- ringham Hotel on Tuesday. January lo, Mr. Tom Clarke presiding, A large gathering attended to hear a lecture entitled "The Twelve Best Vegetables to Grow for Exhibition." written by Mr. E. H. Battram. Unfor- tunately this gentleman was too unwell to attend, and in his absence Mr. John Julian was asked todelivera lecture entitled " Some Hints upon the Selection and Staging of Fruits and Vegetables for Exhibition, "whicb he had previously delivered to the members of the newly-formed Bassaleg Cottagers' Association. Mr. Julian gave many valuable hints on exhibiting, and gave reasons why exhibits were ofttimea either successes or failure?:. Mr. H. R. Farmer opened a dis- cussion, which was a^cII taken up I>y the members. J. P. BRISTOL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.-The fort- nightly meeting of the above Association was held on Thursday, January 12. Col. Cary Batten, the President, opened the proceedings, addressing a few words to the members and congratulating them on the progress the Association was making, aud hoped it would be main- tained. It was always a pleasure to Mrs. Cary Batten and himself to pay the Society a visit. Mrs. Cary Batten then presented the prizes which were awarded the successful competitors for three plants in bloom. On Col. Cary Batten leaving, Mr. W. A. Oaraway was invited to lake the chair for the remainder oi: the evening, and he then called upon Mr. Binfield to read a paper on "Decorative Plants," which dealt with the method of the cultivation of Palms, Crotons, aud Poinsettiap, the formation of suitable composts, the method of pot- ting, the most suitable temperature, and the general treatment to observe iu their cultivation. A discussion followed. The next meeting of tlie Society will take place on January 2G. when Mr. Woodward, member oE the Newport Association, will lecUire on " The Rotation of Kitchen Garden Crops." CHELMSFORD AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.— At the weekly meeting of the above Society, held on Friday, January 13, Mr. Alger Petts presiding, Mr. W. Seabrook gave a paper on "Apples." He referred to the enormous sums paid yearly to the foreigner for fruit that might well be produced at home. He advo- cated the dwarf system of growing Apple-trees, especi- ally the bush aud cordon methods, the pyramid plan of training being somewhat adversely criticised. An ideal Apple soil was in his opinion a sandy-clay. He advised planting trees on ahiUuck rather than deeply, as deep planting was often the cause of failure, and loss of trees. Mulching in May in preference to winter mulching was advised. Among all the 1,0C0 or so varieties of Apples Mr. Seal>rook thought ten varieties of good table, and ten good culinary Apples were all that were required. In buying and selecting trees for planting the speaker warned his hearers against purciiasiug cheap trees from afar. He advised buying the best that were procurable in the district from reliable growers. ,S'. M. C. Social Evening at Kew.— The Kew Gar- deners' Social was held on Friday, January 13, in the Boat House, Kew. About 150 guests assem- bled and spent a very pleasant time. Mr. H. J. Baker was Master of Ceremonies, and to Mr. G. H. Pring. the Secretary, the thanks of the meetincj were also due. THE WEATHER. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in th© Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens at Wisley, Surrey. Height above sea - level 150 feet. The following are the "mean" readings for the week ending January 14, 1905. Tempera- Temperature o ture OF THE 1905. OF TUE Air. SOILatOA.M. At9A.M. i IS go d 6. ^ ri t g 3 00 -r p !25 O O o <0 -a o i o So« .Q .d m DH^ In +i ^ ^ o) n n V n^ f? •u M g I-] < < < p Is a 1-1 tii} bb ei &i) bil bi) M bfi hr. min. o o o o a 'd •a -a •o -D -a -d '^ Tot, Means 40 39 47 37 2S 41 4;{ 41 0-ia 3 31 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. TuR For.Lowixfi Summary Ufcord of the weallicr Ihrougliout the British Island?, for the week ending Jan. 1 1, is furnished from the Meteorological Ullico :— " The i(Tn(/(Cr during this week was mostly fair iu the south ;md cast of England, aud unsettled elsewhere. Heavy rain .nnd a. Jilllc snow wcr<> cxiu-ricncod in the north of Scotland, and a considerable amount of rain iu Ireland aud tlie north of Scotland. During the Uth a tlinuderstorm, accompanied by hail, occurred at Lcitli. "The Innpcrnturc was nbovc the mean, titc excess ranging from V in Scotland. N., and England, S.W.. to L" or ."i" iu the other parts of the kicgdoni. The highest 48 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 21, 1905. of the maxima were recorded at the begiuuing of the Tveek, and the lowest of tlie mioiina at it? close. The fcirmer ranged from 51° in Ireland and the Channel Islands, to 51" in Scotland, W., and the latter from tV in England. S , and the Midland Counties, to 30^ in Sreland, and to .32° in the Channel Islands. za •'The ram/oM was much more than the mean in Scot- land, N., and a little more in Ireland, but elsewhere there was a deficit. In the Channel Islands, and in Eogland, S.E. and N.E., the fall was very slight. ""Thabri'jht .•j»)).?////jc was very abundant in England, the Chinm.'! Islands, and the East of Scotland, but only just equalled the normal in Scotland, N.. and was below jt in Scotland, W., and over Ireland. The percentage of the possible duration ranged from 50 in England, E.. sr. in England, S.. 33 in the Channel Islands, and 32 in England, N,E , to 12 in Scotland, N., and to 8 in Ireland, N." THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS. A Bitterlii Cold Wind. -The recent spell of very mild weather lasted eleveu days, when a change to lower temperatures took place. On the coldest day. the IHth, the higliest reading in the thermometer-screen was 29" —making it the coldest day as yet of the present winter. During the previous niglit the exposed thermometer showed 15''oE frost. The last few days and nights of eo-ld weather have already affected the ground tempe- ratures, which are now about 1° colder at 2 feet deep, and about 3' colder at I foot deep, than is seasonable. The only fall of rain or snow worth mentioning was that of the 16th. Ou the evening of that day the ground was covered with snow to the mean depth of half an inch. This coating was, however, mostly melted by the ra.iu and sleet which were afterwards deposited during th-e night. The measurement of rain and melted snow on the following morning amounted to nearly half an inch. One effect ,of the rain falling upon the frozen groualwas to .bring [about what is termed a " glazed frost," or "silver tliaw," which caused the roads and pathways to become veiy slippeiy early on the following day. On all but one day, when the soil was frozen, some water passed through both percolation gauges d'uring the week. The sun shone on an average for nearly three hours a day. or for more than twice the seasonable duration. On three consecutive days the )u«an daily record was nearly b\ hours; but two other days were altogether sunless. On two days in the early part of the week the wind rose in the windiest hour to 17 miles— direction west. The most Boteworthy feiturc was. however, the biting easterly winds of the 15th and 16th. which from 10 a.m. on the 15th until 9 p.M on the 16th blew with a velocity of from T to 15 miles an hour. It was not, however, so ranch the strength of the wind as its low temperature and extreme dryness which cxused it to feel so excessively cold. The mean amount of moisture in the air at 3.0'clock in the afternoon was as much as 13 per cent, less than the average quantity for midwinter at that Ijour. E. M., BerUimnsted. Jantianj 17, 1904. ANSWERS TO COBRE SPONDEHTS. AucuEi JAPONICA : Cabbage. Tou are ri^lit in fupposing the flowering growth to be that of A. japonica. It is a green-leaved variety of this species, and the flowers on the growth I- received are female flowers. This shrub, as its name denotes, is a native of Japan. Bone-manure ; T. T. T. Crush the bones as finely as you can, and apply in that state. Although the manurial properties of the bones are not so soluble as when freatei with sul- phuric a«id and converted into superphosphate, their effect is felt for a much longer period in soil. Books : Bortus. We know of no suitable up- to-date work on the subject of table decora- tions. Old books on table decoration deal ■with old-fiashioned methods, and are next to useless. — W. F. EUmenlary Botany by Percy Groom, M.A., price 3s. lOd. ; and Chemistry of the Garden, by H. H. Cousins, M.A., price Is. lid., post free, from our Publishing Depart- ment. — J. IF. M. Mendel's Principles of Here- dity, by W. Bateson (Cambridge University Press) ; Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society (l'J(iO), vol. xxv., parts 1 and 2; also n paper by C. C. Hurst, to be had from Thornley & Waddington, of Leicester. Ca'.,.anthe Bulb Spotted: F. L. The brown markings on the pseudo-bulhs sent are super- ficial, and do not extend to the tissues. It is probable that condensed moisture on some oc3asions when the temperature of the house has fallen rather low may have caused the damage. When grown from the same stock lor a number of years the plants are liable to degenerate, and show similar disfigurement to thit on your specimens. During the resting period keep them in a structure where ventila- tion is employed. Eepot the pseudo-bulbs when they have commenced to make growth. If the stock does not improve get fresh pseudo- bulbs. Chrysanthesiuji : Nurseryman. We see no fungus on your cuttings at present, but there are indications which seem to point to the future development of the fungus. Watch them carefully, and apply liver-of -sulphur | oz. to 2 gallons of water, in the form of spray. This will do no harm, and if fungus be really present it will do good. Cucumber Plants Diseased : Reader. A tho- rough investigation has failed to reveal the presence of any fungus or insect pest, and the plants are from this standpoint perfectly healthy. No mention is made of the plants having been sprayed or exposed to vapour of a fungicide, but the bleached edges of the leaves and the colour of the green parts point very strongly to injury from vapour or spraying, which has killed the more susceptible plants. Cyclamens: Beginner. It is not uncommon for very old corms to cause trouble at the flowering season. You should raise a few plants from seeds each year, and it would then be un- necessary to keep the plants after they are two or three years old. With a view of encouraging the flowers to develop properly this season take care to keep the atmospheric temperature of the house pretty regular, and see that the proper degree of moisture is obtained in the atmosphere and at the roots of the plants. Cypripediuji insionk . T. B. It is not usual for this plant to produce two flowers on a spike, though we have seen other specimens. Dendrobiums Failing : J. B. Judging by the pseudo-bulbs of Dendrobium Wardianum sent, which are decayed on the basal half, we think that the growths were not sufficiently matured in heat before they were put into the cold vinery to rest. The temperature of 45* you mention would affect prejudicially any but the most perfectly-finished pseudo-bulbs, and it is pos- sible that the temperature of your house has fallen even below 45° on particular occasions. Maidenhair Ferns on Walls : A. S. The back wall appears to be the more favourable site for growing your Ferns ; a situation beneath the front staging and close to the dry-heat radi- ating from the hot-water pipes would not appear to be at all favourable. But you are on the spot, and better able to judge in this respect. With regard to keeping the soil on the wall, a good plan is to obtain turves, and secure them in a position against the wall by stretching wire-netting over them. You can introduce pieces of peat, ic, beneath the netting and thus form an excellent nidus for the plants. The whole need not protrude more than an inch or so from the surface of the wall. You will need " battens " at intervals on which to fasten the wire-netting. This is a cheap and ready method, and one that can be per- formed by yourself. If your employer is willing to bear the expense, and wishes for more elaborate work, there are firms who will cover the wall with a kind of rock -work, "with "pockets," &c., suitable for planting the Ferns. This system would produce a better effect. Names of Fruits: JT. A. R. 1, Cox's Orange Pippin ; 2, Dumelow's Seedling (Wellington) ; 3, Eibston Pippin; 4, Lincoln Pippin. — W. D. Miller's Glory.— J. H. 1, Uvedale's St. Ger- mains; 2, Tardive deMons; 3, Striped Beefing. — Derby. 1, Qneen Caroline; 2, Old Haw- thornden ; 3, London Pippin ; 4, not recognised from the deformed fruit received ; 5, Cistle Major ; C, Warner's King ; 7, Greenup's Pippin ; 8, Tower of Ulamis. Names of Plants: C. J., Sussex. Epidendrum atropurpui-eum, commonly called Epidendrum macrochilum album in gardens. — A. R. 1, On- cidium tigrinum ; 2, 0. varicosum ; 3, Phalajnop- sis speciosa ; 4, Stanhopea insignis ; 5, Zygope- talum maxillare. — Formosa. 1, Pteris cretica ; 2, Adiantum graciUimum ; 3, Pellsea rotundi- folia; 4, Selaginella caesia. — H. K. 1, Pro- bably Cedrns Deodara ; 2, Cryptomeria japonica ; 3, Ct.pressus thyoides ; 4, Abies Nordmanniana ; 5, Sequoia gigantea (Welling- tonia) ; 0, Thuya orientalis variety. Notice to Leave: Ic^norance. It might only be necessary to give a week's notice in your case ; but as you are paid fcrtnightly you would be better advised to give a fortnight's notice. — Clifford and J. R. R. G. It is usual to give and receive a month's notice, but as no agreement exists and you have been paid weekly, a week's notice is all you can claim. In the case of a head gardener the requirements would be dift'erent, and longer notice would be required. Onion Disease : G. T. The diseased Onions with the crowns blackened and rotten are in a con- dition that is far too common. The disease attacks almost any kind of bulb, especially those of Hyacinths and Onions. In your case small lumps or " sclerotia " are being formed in the rotting parts. In the following season they would produce a small Peziza, called Sclero- tinia bulborum (see Gardeners' Chronicle, vol. xvi., 1894, p. 160). There is no cure when the disease is established. All that can be done is to burn all diseased bulbs which can be found, in order to prevent the disease from spreading, as the sclerotia will hibernate, and be capable of germination after resting for two or three years. M. C. C. Seedling Oranges : Constant Reader. There are two ways in which these fruit-trees can be propagated, viz., by budding and by grafting. Budding is the most simple plan, but should not be done until the first week in July. The process is identical with that of budding fruit- trees and Eoses. After the trees are budded they should be placed in a somewhat shady position and watered whenever necessary in order to cause the sap to flow freely. Grafting should be done during the first or second week in March. The best kind of grafting for Oranges is "side grafting." Cut down the trees to the required height, and select a scion about half the size of the stock. The scion should be securely tied to the stock with worsted, or if the tree forming the stock is extra large some untwisted soft string may be used to advantage. Bast or raffia should on no account be used. Grafting wax sufficient to cover the top of the stock and scion should be applied to the graft in order to keep out water. The grafted trees should be kept in a close place, preferably a pit, and shaded when- ever there is sunshine. The temperature of the pit may range from 40° to 45°, but must not be allowed to f xceed 50°. After the grafts have formed a good callus the trees may be gradually brought to the light and the shading discontinued. The grafts need not be untied until the autumn, unless the tying material is found to be cutting into the stock. If you intend to use your seedling trees as stocks it will be necessary to obtain scions of good varieties from a nurseryman. Probably Messrs. Elvers i Son, Sawbridgeworth, would be able to supply you. J. B. Stands for Grapes : 0. IV. W. The recognized size for Grape stands is as follows : — 12 inches at back, 1 inch at front, and 12 inches at base from back to front. The width of the board ia generally left to be determined by the exhi- bitor, according to the size of the bunch or bunches. Tree Carnations : A Beginner. See the note on this subject in the weekly Calendar " Plants under Gla«s," on p. 38. Vegetable trays : G. W. IF. The usual size of the trajs for exhibiting vegetableB are as follows: — For six kinds, 4 feet by 4 feet; for nine kinds, 5 feet by 41 feet ; and for twelve kindSj ti feet by 45 feet. Communications Received.— G. S.— J. Clayton (with thanks)— J. V. & Sons— W. C. * Sou (we aw.iit Mr. B.'s letter)— R. N.—Haus Gussow (wit)i tliank.s)— Natioual Horticultural Societv of France— Lady G.— G. H.— L.Tdy H.— S. W, F.-J. McB.— A. A. WildinE- Cecil Hooper (enclosure).- W. G. S.— G. A. M.— W. D.— ,1. H. —Young Gaidener— H. A. R.— L, E. W.— S. P.— A. B. S. — W. & J. B.- Harrison Weir- T. B.-.T. T. B.— H. \V.— R. D — F. J.-C. J. E.-J. O'B.-A. D.— S. W. F.— T. H.— A. B. W.— T. H. C.-C. F., Warmiuglon— A. M.— L. R. -D. Bliss-W. W. {For Markets see p. xiv ) Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle.' V^ITH View in thk Conservatory at Upton Grove, Tetbury, the Residence of C. Harding, Esq. Jauuakt 28, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 49 THE No. 9U.— SATURDAY, Jan. 28, 1905. CONTENTS. Apple census. Ilie ... OS Araucaria at Dropmore, the lanious 59 [Benevolent Institu- tion, Gardeners'Royal 50, (52 Book, notice of— A Gardener's Year ... 52 Bi'itish Gardeners' As- sociation, tlie 58 Camellias at Leyswood 57 Cedrus Deodara var. alba spica 59 ■Clirysauthemums for gi-eenliouse decora- tion 53 •Conifers as reclaimers of waste lands ... 49 Cryptomeria japonica . 59 Firesat country houses, the danger of 58 ERHAPS tliere is nowhere a more deso- -*- late and uninviting piece of land for planting than the many hundreds of acres now lying waste in the mining division of Cornwall. Between Truro, Hayle, the Bristol Channel, and Mount's Bay, and eastward ■from it, extending in a zigzag line almost to l?aimouth, there lie indications of mining operations which have been carried on from time immemorial. The more modern work- ings appear the more desolate. The ancient, ■either by Nature's own hand or by human agencies, have become covered by vegetation. The newer workings are at present unmis- takable. Some of the valleys have proved ■capital dumping places for the dftiria hauled up from the adjacent mines. In others this waste has been conveyed some distance from the shaft's mouth and thrown into great heaps known locally as "burrows.' This debris consists chiefly of varieties of granite of several different shades and tex- tures. "Elvan"and slaty formations are also met with and excavattd from these vast subterranean mines. In addition to these liroken rocks there are huge burrows of ashes, cinders, and other foreign material. These all go to account for the colour in the landscape, so that on a clear day there may be seen a feature which is not altogether sombre. In this parish (Gwennap) there is at least a square mile where there is not a single plant growing ! In other places there may be seen solitary specimens of Calluna vulgaris, species of Ericas, and Gorse; and these appear first where the ashes from the engine-boilers were thrown, then on the elvans and on soft clayey material which is washed out of the granite. In 1864 E. Btauchamp - Beauchamp, Esq., came into possession of Trevince, which was at that time in the centre of a copper and tin mining industry. He at once fenced in about one hundred acres of wretched stone-bestrewed and in many instances, so far as plant-life goes, poisonous mine-land, and planted Scotch Fir, Larch, Pinus austriaca and P. in- signis. Spruce were not planted with the above-named species, as is usually done. Now it must be remembered that disin- tegration and decomposition go on at various rates, that rain falling washes away iron and copper in solution (by the way, the average rainfall here for seventeen years is 42 inches), and that frost does its part in breaking down these materials to form soil. The plants were planted when about one foot high. Curiously enough, those taken from the seed-bed started to grow sooner, and a smaller percentage of them died than of those that had been previously transplanted. The ground was not dug or any preparation made tor planting beyond driving a pick into the ground three times to make p. triangular loosening ; after this the plants were put in behind the spade. Those planted forty years ago have now reached heights varying from 40 to .'")•') feet. It must have taken some courage to plant what was literally a " howl- ing wilderness." To-day there is a fine game covert and a splendid shelter. Thinning has been carried out sparingly around the sides, but more thoroughly in the centre. Pontic Rhododendrons have been planted as an undergrowth by the hundred, and in May and June an acre of these plants in bloom is a sight not soon forgotten. Various shades of colour are found among them. Seedlings are to be found in thousands grow- ing in the sides of cuttings which used to be watercourses, and a smallernumber on flat ground. These are taken up and planted in the nursery and grown on until they are about '2 feet high. The Pine leaves, the leaves of the Rhododendrons, and the decaying parts of the other plants (Ivy, Heaths, &c.) have assisted the atmospheric agencies to such an extent that what was once a wilderness has indeed become a garden. There is no doubt whatever that this land, when this crop of wood is taken off (with, of course, the necessary levelling of the smaller burrows), will become good agricultural land in a much shorter period than it this dHiris were left to atmospheric agencies alone. When such a transforma- tion takes place, one is led to question the causes which have contributed to it. The soil— if soil it can be called— is about the last that a planter would choose. Where rocks are mechanically broken up, there will always be bits which are extremely angular, and the question is : Do these edges — some of them sharp, and hard enough to cut glass — induce roots to increase in number-' If this is so, this, with increased facilities to take up food dissolved out of the granite, will account for the success attending these plantations. Narrow belts of trees aie not advised, because of the prevalence of strong winds; it is better to plant a considerable area if possible. The last piece planted here is triangular, and measures 21 acres. Larch from about thirty years old and upwards are usually decayed in the middle ; when felled, you may pull out handfuls of spongy, fibrous mai,erial from the centre of the trunk. Whether this is due to the soil, or a disease of the plant itself, is a question for older planters than the writer. The younger trees make excellent poles for fencing, &c. None of the other species show any signs of disease ; they all produce good timber. H. 11'., Trevince. NEW OR NOTEWORTHY PLANTS. STAPELIA DIVERGENS, N.E.Brown {n.sp.)* This is a very distinct species, belonging to the same group as S. varicgata. and is very similar to it in the general appearance of the stems, although the flowers are quite different, the unspotted rim of the annulus and the widely divergent tips of the outer coronal-lobes being very characteristic marks of the species. It seems to be a rare jjlant, as I have only seen it twice — the first time about fifteen years ago, and this autumn it has flowered in the garden of Sir Thomas Hanbury at La Mortola, from which latter plant the description in footnote is made. * Stapclia divergent .—'Sien\s I3— 3 inches high, often decumbent at the base, 4-augled, 5— J inch square, glabrous, green or purplish ; angles rounded, with conical, spreading teeth, IJ— U line long, usually with a minute denticle on each side of the acute withering tips. Flowers 1—4 in a fascicle, successively developed near the base of the young stems. Pedicels 1— li inch long, glabrous. Sepals '2\ hues long, 1 line broad, ovate-lanceolate, acute, glabrous. Corolla, when in bud, shortly conical, acute, from a broad, flattened 5-augled base; when expanded about 2 inches in diameter, nearly flat, with a raised central annulus, very minutely ciliate with simple hairs all along the lubes, otherwise glabrous on both sides, slightly rugulose on the inner surface; lobes about 9 lines long and 7 lines broad, deltoid-ovate, very acute or acuminate, light yellow, labyi'inthically maiked on the lower two-thirds (as well as on the disc of the corolla) wilh thick, irregularly-ramified brown- ish-crimson lines, the markings on the apical part becoming broken up into spots ; annulus about I5 line high, nearly circular, with a horizontally spreading (scarcely recurved) rim, bright cauai'y-yellow, marked in the basin-shaped rugulose depression with rather crowded small round brownish-crimson spots, which are absent from the smoother rim, underneath the margin of which is a crenatcd band of connected brown- ish-crimson spots. Outer coronal -lobes ascending- spreading, 2 lines long, 1 line broad at the base, 2— 2^ lines broad across the tips of the two subulate, straiglit, widely divergent points into which they arc divided for two-thirds of their length, pale yellowish, dusted with dark crimson-brown on the points, with a triangular spot at the base of the uotch and a square spot of crimson brown at the base. Inner coronal-lobes 2-armcd, pale yellowish, dusted with dark crimson- brown ; outer arms li line long, erectly spreading, com- pressed-filiform, very slightly thickened (uot distinctly clavate), and very minutely tuberculate at the ajiex : inner arms 2 lines long, filiform, clavate, and minutely tuberculate at the apex, counivont at the base, then erect with recurving tips. Origin unknown ; probably a native of South Africa. .V. /•:. Broxm. 50 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaet 2S, 1905. KYLEMOEE CASTLE. This edifice, one of the seats of his Grace the Bake of Manchester, is situated in the heart of Connemara, Co. Galway. It is ahout 175 miles from Dublin, whence the visitor must proceed by the main line of the Midland and Great Western Hallway of Ireland as far as Galway, and thence by the Company's branch line to Clifden, the capital of Connemara. The Castle is situated in a beauti- fully chosen position at the foot of the Dough- ruagh Mountain, and stands on a wide terrace at the north-west corner of Lough PoUacapul, the site commanding a remarkably grand prospect of Kylemore Pass, being bounded by a majestic amphitheatre of mountains, the acclivities of whose sides slope to the water's edge of the loughs beneath. Grass we counted fifty-five plumes or panicles. There are two distinct varieties of the Pampas Grass at Kylemore, the well-known Gynerium argenteum, and a seedling variety that flowers a month or six weeks earlier than the ordinary form. Amongst the shrubs we noted the following ; Berberis stenophylla, one specimen of which measured over 11 feet in height and 20 feet in diameter ; Escallonia macrantha in great pro- fusion, and a variety sa,id to be E. coccinea, a specimen of which measured over 12 feet in height and over 10 feet in diameter. There are also good specimens of that attractive evergreen shrub, the shore-loving Griselinia, G. littoralis. the specimen we measured being over 15 feet in height. Euonymus latifolius, Olearia Haastii, Arbutus TJnedo, Acacia dealhata, Leycesteria formosa. Hydrangea Hortensia, H. H. stellata of Capressus gracilis pendula measuring 20 feet % a iine, healthy plant of Abies polita measured over 21 feet, whilst a specimen of A. ajanensis- was found to be 18 feet in height. CryptomerLn elegans, Petinospora plumosa, and P. p. aurea are also represented by specimens 10 to IS feet high, and furnished with branches to the ground. A striking feature at one end of the pinetiun is a clump of hybrid Ehododendrons, 72 yards in circumference and 20 feet 3 inches in height at the centre. Among the varieties of the taller coniferous trees planted alongside the avenues and through- out the gi'ounds, Pinus insignis, P. austriaca,. and Cupressus macrocarpa form the leading features. None of these have been planted more than thirty years, but some of them are fine speci- mens considering their age. One tree of Pinus Fig. 25. — kyle-more castle, co. galway. The Castle is in the Scottish baronial style, and has its principal fa9ades faced with cut Kingstown granite. The policies are intersected by a winding carriage-drive about 2 miles in length, traversing in its course the lower portion of a beautiful hanging wood rising and falling in succession by easy gradients, and skirting in its course Loughs PoUacapul and Maladrolaun, and bordered lor the entire distance by a great variety of Rhododendrons and other ornamental shrubs, interspersed with clumps of Pampas Grass and New Zealand Flax. The two last- named plants grow most luxuriantly, the deep, free, bog soil, combined with a mild temperature and humid atmosphere, suiting them admirably, as it also does other comparatively scarce orna- mental plants. We measured one clump of Phormium tenax, grown from a single plant, and found it measured 21 feet in diameter and 10 feet 4 inches in height, while on one plant of Pampas prolifera. Ac, are all growing in profusion and in good form. Immediately to the east of the Castle, on a lawn in front of a large orchard-house, we noticed a fine specimen of Cordyline auscralis, 22 feet high; there is also a good example of Eucalyptus robusta, 50 feet high. The Blue Gum (Euca- lyptus Globulus) was not planted here till 1890, but specimens about ;J feet in height planted at that time have already attained a height of 15 feet. On this lawn we alco noticed a fine specimen of Phormium tenax variety, turned out of a pot only three years since. Skirting the main avenue, and a little to the west of the Castle, is the pinetum, planted on a piece of reclaimed bog land ; and here a great variety of Coaifers is in excellent condition. The dilferent varieties of Cupressus Lawsoniana have been planted freely, and are of heights varying from 15 to 30 feet. We found a specimen insignis which we measured was found to hi' ■s feet 9 inches in girth at 3 feet from the ground, and numerous specimens of Cupressus macro- carpa are from lO to 50 feet high, many of which are laden with cones. The gardens are situated about a mile west- ward from the Castle, and are intersected by a. broad walk or carriage drive. The flower-garden consists of two gentle grass slopes on either side of the central walk, and these are laid out with flower-beds in several geometrical designs, and interspersed with specimens of Pampas-Grass, Gunnera manicata, tall permanent plants of Cordyline australis 15 to 30 feet in height, Aralia chinensis, A. Sieboldii, Hydrangea Hor- tensia, and H. H. stellata prolifera. Space- forbids going into detail, but we noted some .of the leading features. At the date of our visit in the second week in September several smal?l circular beds of Sedum spectabile at once arrested JaKuary 28, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 51 ^;he eye, they were one mass of rosy-pink colour, -and the symmetry of the beds was perfect. A large oblong bed of Fuchsia Eose of Castile was .also very pretty. These plants had not been amoved for several years, and as a consequence %vere fine specimens, and were smothered with tJowers. Several beds of Fuchsia Monarch (a •dart self), growing under similar conditions, were also very effective. Two isolated beds of 'Veronica Andersoni var., permanently planted, were pretty, they had been smothered with 'their pale blue flowers, but their rich, creamy, variegated foliage was sufficiently telling of itself. IFour large L-shaped beds, planted alternately with Anemone japonica and A. j. alba, were full ■of Sower. A bold effect was produced by a .large crescent-shaped bed filled as follows — the The Banana-house, which measures 72 feet by 26 feet, is well stocked with healthy plants of the ordinary variety Musa (.'avendishii, these being planted in a bed along the centre of the house. The plants were fruiting freely. The rafters were furniEhed with such subjects as Cleroden- dron Balfourianum, Cissus discolor. Begonia President Carnot, several varieties of single and double Hibiscus, AUamandas, &c., whilst the side stages contained a miscellaneoiis collection of stove plants. A lofty span-roofed plant-house had the central stages entirely filled with plants of a good strain of carefully - selected single and double Begonias, whilst the side stages were entirely occupied with Malmaison Carnations, which looked the picture of health. Fig. 26. — the waterfall ix the grounds at kylemorb castle. Hamburgh, and a companion house was filled with young healthy plants of Bowood Muscats. Peaches and Nectarines are grown in quantity, many bouses being devoted to these fruits. The crop was partly gathered at the time of our visit, but the samples we saw were of excellent quality. The varieties of Peaches grown are Prince of Wales, Princess of Wales, Noblesse and Royal I.Jeorge, and of Nectarines, Milton, Downton Improved, Stanwick, Eiruge, Byron, Violette Hative and Pine-apple. In the Melon-house a good second crop was being gathered, and in the centre of this house we noticed good specimens of Begonia Gloire de Lorraine and B. Turnford Hall, also a collection of Codiffiums, Caladiums, i:c. A large Tomato-liouse was furnishing an excel- lent crop. The variety Stirling Castle is chiefly grown for ordinary purposes, but the Peach Tomato is largely tised for dessert. There are extensive and well-stocked kitchen- gardens, and an orchard ; also a long herbar- ceous border in the kitchen-garden containing an up-to-date collection of this deservedly popular class of flower. There are also fine hedges of Escallonia macrantha, and of a variety of Fuchsia ; tlie latter is said to be P. exoniensis. We did not iback with Hydrangea Hortensia, the centre with Dahlia Glare of the Garden, and the whole edged with Chrysanthemum Golden Shah, Lobelia car- ■dinalis. Begonias, Pelargoniums, Gladioli, A;c., •were all planted with good effect. Florists' flowers included collections of Roses, Carnations, Penste- open. Syringe the trees in the morning if the weather is bright and favourable, and again in afternoon, except when they are in flower. Pay special attention to the watering of the trees. Cherries. — To obtain ripe fruits early in May, much patience must be exercised during the early stages of forcing. At a later period, when the days lengthen and the sun-heat increases in power, the trees may be encouraged to develop more rapidly, and a little heat may be employed, in the water-pipes, which should however be shut off at night-time, excepting in severe weather and- when the temperature falls below 40". Maintain a moderately moist atmosphere by syringing the trees morning and afternoon in good weather. Some artificial heat should always be used during the time the trees are in flower, with free ventila- tion both day and night when the weather is favourable. Plum-trees, similar to Cherries, produce ex- cellent crops when grown in pots, and they require the same low temperature during the early stages of forcing. Indeed their treatment should be almost identical until after the fruits are set and commence swelling, but they require a longer time to ripen their fruit. 56 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JAiJUABT 28, 1905. EDITORIAL NOTICES. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants for naming, should he addressed to the EDITOR 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London. Communications should be written on one bide only op THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed bi/ the writer. If desired, the signature leill not be printed, but kept as a guarantee o/ good faith. Special Notice to Correspondents. — The Editor does not undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself re' sponsible for any opinions expressed hy his correspondents, APPOINTMENTS fop FEBRUARY. THURSDAY, Feb. 2-Linnean Society Meet. SATURDAY, Feb. 4 WEDNESDAY, 3FRIDAY, MONDAY, TUESDAY, THURSDAY, J'RIDAY, MONDAY, ( Soei(5t6 Frau^aise d'florticul- \ lure de Londres Meet. _ i, Britisli Gardeners' Association, '{ Meeting at Croydon. Fkb Feb Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund' Annual Meeting and Election of Candidates. United Horticultural Benevo- lent and Provident Society's , Coniniittee Meet. Brilisli Gardeners' Association, V Meeting at Birmingham. I Royal Horticultural Society's Committees Meet, also Annual Meeting of Fellows. Feb. 16— Linneau Society Meet. Feb. 24— Royal Botanic Society Meet. f Birmingham and Midland Feb. 27 \ Counties Mutual Improve- ( ment Society Meet. rRoyal Horticultural Society's qJ Conimitlees Meet. I National Rose Society's Com- \ mitteeMeet. Feb. BALES FOR THE WEEK. MONDAY AND FRIDAY NEXT- Border Plants, PerenDials. Roses, Azaleas, Fruit. Trees. &c., at ti7 &. 68, Clieapsidc, K.C., by Protheroc & Morris, at '2 o'clock. ■WEDNESDAY NEXT- Palms, Plants, Azaleas, Roses. Fruit Trees. Herba- ceous Plants, Lilies, ttc, at (j7 it OS, Clieapside. E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12 o'clock. — Roses. Azaleas, Palms, Shrubs, Lilies, tkc, at Stevens' Rooms, at 12.30. FIRDAY NEXT— importation of Burmese Dendrobes. 450 Odonto- glossum crippum &c., at 67 & 68, Clieapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.30. {For Jurther particutars see our Advertisement columns.) AVEBAGE Temteratuhe for the ensuing week, deduced from observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswlck —39-0'. ACTDAL Temperatfbfs ;— XuOSOOii.— Wcdncsdayy January 27' {6 p.m.): Max. 47°; Min. .11°. Qardeners' Chronicle Olfice, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden, London.— r/i»;vs(/ai/, Jan. 2i) (10 A.M.) r Bar.. .30 6: Temp., 3"'. Weather- bright, wilh little sunshioe PboVINHes.- ^\'cdllesf the fruits in those houses. These conditions tended to put plenty of flavour into the Golden prop Plums, which were highly appreciated in the dining-room so late in the season, and elicited favourable comments from host and ■quests. Indeed, I am justified in going farther by saying that the trees on the north wall bore good crops when trees occiipying east and west walls were Vjut scantily cropped, inasmuch as the trees on the north wall were much later in coming into flower, and so escaped injury from frost. I m.-iy say that the brick walls in Longford Castle Gardens are II- inches wide and from 9 to 12 feet high, and in the aggregate afford a total length of 1,700 yards H. W. Ward. CRYPTOMERIA JAPONICA. — The list of largest specimens in the United Kingdom given at the end of the " Keport of the Conifer Conference " mentions a specimen of this tree growing at Cool- lattin, Wicklow, 67 feet high, with a girth of 5 feet at 5 feet up, as the finest tree out of twenty- eight returns sent to the late Malcolm Dunn. As the Conifer Conference was held so long ago as October, 1891, this tree, if still growing and undamaged, should be much finer than that mentioned by Mr. Page, of Dropmore Gardens (see p. 41). The finest Cryptomeria japonica in the Pencarrow collection is one planted by Sir Wm. Molesworth in 1819, and is now 62 feet 6 inches high, with a girth of 8 feet at 5 feet from the ground. This tree is well clothed and of perfect shape, tapering to a point. I well remember the beautiful Abies (Tsuga) Brunoni- ana mentioned by Mr. Page. It was, I think, about the time of the Conifer Conference that, while I was foreman at Dropmore, the late Prof. Carl Hansen came to that place. Mr. Herrin was engaged with Lady Louisa Fortescue, and his loss was my gain, for I had the good fortune of piloting the famous Danish arbori- culturist around the jiinetum. I shall never forget the Professor's expressions of admiration when we came to this T-suga. After assuring himself of its identity — for although politeness itself, Mr. Hansen would take neither my nomenclature nor that of the labels, but wisely examined each tree we came to — he was at first literally dumb with admiration ; then, after a few remarks in Danish, he turned to me with " Ah, my young friend, I am overjoyed ! Ton, who live with these wonderful trees growing like this in the open-air, cannot realise what they are to me, who hitherto have only seen this tree growing in a pot wintered in the conser- vatory. I really must take home some of these beautiful strobiles." So we gathered up the fallen cones by the dozen. A. C. Bartlett, Pencarrow Gardens. Mr. Page's remarks on this tree (see p. 44) are of great interest, and I should be much obliged if he could give particulars of the amount of growth that was made during the first thirty years of the tree's life, as com- pared with that of the last thirty years, as shown by breadth and leading shoot. Also could he give the cubic contents of the tree as ascer- tained by quarter girth measurement? As the Japanese "fever" is now very prevalent, facts of this kind are of value, and may possibly indicate what we may expect to take place in the case of other species. A. C. Forbes. CEDRUS DEODARA VAR. ALBA SPICA. — I quite concur with all Mr. Page wrote on p. 44 respecting this excellent variety. We h.ave two trees in the pleasure-grounds that have been planted eleven years. At the present time they are only 13 feet high, but 56 feet in circum- ference. The peculiarity of this variet.y here is that it grows in the form of a bush. Mr. Page does not state if the tree at Dropmore grows in bush form. Our trees are admired by everyone who has seen them. Thos. Harris, Lower Qrays- ^oood Gardens, Haslemere. THE LAST OF THE FAMOUS ARAUCARIA AT DROPMORE. — For the piist three years this fine old tree has stood in the grounds here a withered mass of leaves and branches. Gardeners and other visitors have from time to time called in to see it, or asked the question — *■ Is the Araucaria still standing ? " Last week it was taken down. I found nearly all the main roots near the surface were quite decayed, but, strange to say, those at the base were pliant, and seemed to have some life in them. This appears to indicate that the decay commenced at the surface roots first and gradually spread downwards. C. Parje, Dropmore Gardens. Bucks. THE TRAINING OF YOUNG GARDENERS. — As " W. C. R." appears to wander further from the above subject with each letter, I do not think any good purjiose wiU be attained by prolonging this discussion, but should like to add that I had no idea of advancing new theories when advo- cating the use of suitable perennials instead of the usual class of tender summer bedding plants, Ijut rather that of economising time and labour in cases of necessity. " W. C. K." doubts if many employers would like it ; but I would remind " W . 0. B." that employers are not cast in a mould, neither are gardeners. J. G. W., Bess- horough. SOCIETIES, — I — THE BOYAL HORTICULTURAL. Jancaet 24. — A meeting of the Committees took place on Tuesday last in the Royal Hoiti cultural Hall, Vincent Square, '\\'cstminster. Notwithstanding the cold weather then obtaining, there were many more exhibits staged than on the previous occasion. Orchids constituting the predominating feature. The Orchid Committee recommended Awards including two First-class Certificates and seven Awards of Merit. On this occasion jMr. Hahry J. Veitch retired from the Chairmanship of this Committee, and he is succeeded by Mr. J. Gukney Fowler, the Society's Treasurer ; Mr. Veitch will remain asa Viee- Chairmau. The Committee awarded a Gold Medal to a collection of Orchids shown by G. F. MooRE, Esq. The Floral Committee recommended Awards of Merit to Cotoneaster pannosa and Erica mediterranea hybrida. There were groups of Cyclamen, Primulas, Carnations, forced shriibs, Ferns, alpine plants, kc. The Floral Committee met on this occasion in a room on the first floor, which, it is presumed, will be the future home of this Committee. The Fruit and Vegetable COMMiTTEErecommended no awards to novelties, and had few fruits to inspect, but there was a large collection of Potatos from Mr. H. J. Jones. In the afternoon seventy-one new Fellows were elected, and a paper on the German methods of fruit preserving was read by the Assistant Secretary. Floral Committee. Present: W. Marshall, Esq., Chairman ; and Messrs. H. B. May, Jas. Hudson, Jno. Green, G. Reuthe, Chas. lilick, John Jennings, W. Howe, J. F. McLeod, C. R. Fielder, R. Wilson Ker, Geo. Nicholson, H. J. Jones, R. W. "Wallace, H. J. Cutbush, C E. Shea, C. E. Pearson, W. Cuthbertson, Chas. Jeffries, E. H. Jenkins, C. J. Salter, "W. P. Thomson, M. J. James, C. T. Druer^', R. Hooper Pearson, and J. A. Nix. Messrs. H. Cannell k Sons, Swanley, Kent, filled the entire side of one of the centre tables with pot- plants of their strain of Primula sinensis. The group was attractive and bright, the colours and form of the liowers well developed, and the plants well cultivated. They were exhibited iu batches in their respective colours, such as Cannell's Blush, Cannell's White, Cauneira Red, &c. One batch exliibited as Swanley Giant Improved was of a very fine type, the tiowors being large and of an excellent colour of rose shading to crimson. Messrs. Cannell also set up a pleasing batch, of that useful winter-dowering pl:ir.t, Coleua thyr- soideus (Silver Flora Medal). Messrs. Jas. A'eitch & Sons, Ltd., Iving's Road, Chelsea, set up a number of flowering plants of Coleus thyrsoideus, Eupatorium vernale and Cheiranthus kfwensis. The whole were intersperticd and relieved with suitable foliage plants. Mei^srs. \'iciTrn also pre- sented specimens of Hamamelis iirbnrea and H. mollis, tlu' latter having brighter and broader petals than the former, although the crenated appearance of the tlowers is absent in the newer species. Plants of Cotoneaster pannosa were well furnished with its pleasing red berries or pomes (sec Awards). ]\lr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Niirseries, tipper Edmonton, sot up a collection of Ferns, many of the 60 TEE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JaxtjAbt 28, 190oi choicer and newer species were represented. A number of Selaginellas were included — S. grandis, S. mertensia variegata, S.stolonifera and the dwarf-growing S. apus [apoda]. The same firm displayed a number of plants of Eranthemum pulchellum in flower (Silver Banksian Medal). A group of Cyclamen staged by Mr. "VV. SewArd, Nurseryman, Hanwell, was an object-lesson in good culture. The strain is evidently- a very fine one, and the eolaurs have been selected with rare judgment. The individual plants were well grown and profusely flowered, the flowers being large and of excellent substance, colour, &c. {Silver-gdt Banksian Medal). Messrs. Ambrose & Son, Cheshunt, Herts, filled a lai^e space with greenhouse plants, cut flowers, stands of Grapes, &c. Eucharis grandiflora was shown well, as were also Carnations, Lily of the Valley, Roses, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal). From the gardens of Sir W. Plowden, at Aston Rowant House. Oxfordshire (gr., Jlr. AV. H. Clarke), came a collection of sprays of coniferous trees, in- cluding Thujopsis borealis lutea, Piniis excelsa, Picea Pinsapo glauca, Juniperus Sibina albo-spica, J. dru- pacea, J. hibemica, Cupressus funebris, and many forms of C. Lawsoniana, Picea Engelmanii, Thuja Lobbii, &c. Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Richmond, Surrey, staged hardy ornamental foliage and berried plants, Ivies, Euonymus radicans, E. latifolia alba, Aucuba vera (excellently berried), &:c. A basket of Hamamelis arborea was noticed. Mr. W. Hatw.'^rd, florist, Fife Road, Kingston-on- Thames, set up examples of the florists' art — baskets, bouquets, and vases of flowers, &c. The Chrysanthe- mum "Winter Cheer was utilised to good effect in a large artistic basket, proving its value as a late variety. Bouquets of Lily of the Valley and of Narcissus made a pleasing display (Silver Banksian Medal). Mr. H. J. Jones, Lewisham, brought two vases of Chrysanthemum Market Gold, proving the value of this variety for producing flowers late in the season. Messrs. "Wm. Cotbush k Son, Highgate, London, N., arranged several boxes of alpine plants in a natural manner, filled with some of the earlier-flowering species, utilising pieces of rockwork towards the back- ground, among which was arranged dwarf Conifers, Pernettyas, Skimmia japonica, &c. Among the alpine plants in flower we noticed Adonis davurica. Iris Dan- fordii, Cyclamen Coum, Sternbergia Fischeriaua &c. Irises were a feature in this collection (Silver Banksian Medal). Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate, also staged a group of Magnolias useful for conservatory and general decoration as well as for planting in the open. The members exhibited were carrying numerous flowers, and the species and varieties represented were M. ama- bilis, M. conspicua (pure white), 31. Soulangeana, M. Halleana (double-flowered, white). &c. M. Soulangeana was by far the handsomest variety shown, the large flowers with claret-colour on the exterior of the petals being pure white in the interior. Palms interspersed among the group and an edging of Aralia Sieboldi gave a suitable finish to this handsome exhibit (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal). Messrs. T. S. Wake. Ltd., Feltham, Middlesex, staged numerous pans of Alpine plants, few of which were in flower. Saxifrages were represented in nu- merous species in both the sections, and most of the other species of plants suitable for rockeries and alpine gardens found a jilace in the collection. Such a collection would make a fine display later in the season when they are in flower. Lithospermum rosmarini- folium and Adonis amurensis were shown in flower (Bronze Flora Bledal). A few hardy bulbous plants were exhibited b- Messrs. BARR& Sons, 11, 12, and 13, King Street, Covent Garden, including excellent pans of Galanthus Elwesii, the flowers of which were larger and of superior form to the ordinary G. nivalis. The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knutford, Cheshire, had a small exhibit of coloured Primroses, Polyanthus, &c., and a large basket containing well-flowered plants of the altifolius variety of the Christmas Rose. Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, set up ornamental baskets filled with plants of Cycla- men in named varieties. The variety Low's Salmon is of a pleasing shade of the colour indicated. Good types of "whites," "reds," &c., were also represented, as ■well as some of the "crested" section. Begoniachcveneyensis, exhibited by Mrs. Alexander, Cheveney, Maidstone (gr., , Mr. Chas. Crane), is a large^flowering variety of the type represented by. Begonia Gloire de Lorraine. It appears to be very like with plants shown on previous occasions under the name of Marie. Carnation King's Walden Lady exhibited by S. F. Harbison, Esq., Kind's Walden Bury, Hitchin (gr., T. J. Heartless), is a i)erfectly-habited Tree Carnation, with flowers of moderate size, in colour pale j'ellowand rich pink. Chrysanthemum Lady Helper, a white - flowered Japanese or decorative variety, shown at the meeting on January 3, was again exJiibited by Lady Belfer, Kingston HaU Gardens, Derby (gr., Blr. C'Ooke). Hffimanthus natalensis was exhibited in flower by Leopold de Rothschild, E-^q., Gunnersbury House, Acton (gr., Mr. J. Hudson). As some doubt was expressed in respect to the identity of the plant, it was agreed to refer it to Kew. The flower-spike was rather more than 2 feet long, and Mr. Hudson stated that the species required a less degree of warmth than most other Hfemanthus, open-air treatment in summer being advantageous. Awards. Cotoneaster pannosa. — This is a gracefully -habited species from China, with ovate or oblong leaves about 1 inch long, and small red berries produced in clusters at the end of short axillary, growths. The lateral branches from the main stems droop prettily in an arching manner, and would be very useful when cut for decorative purposes. Shown by Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Ltd. (Award of Merit). Erica 7)iediterramn hyhrida. — This is a hybrid obtained from a cross between E. carnea and E. mediterranea hybrida, said to have been raised by Blr. Smith, Darley Dale Nurseries. In the present instance plants were shown by Blessrs. Robt. Veitch k Son, The Nurseries, Exeter. The plants were in Howcr before the middle of December, and are flower- ing very profusely at the present time. The highest of the flowering growths were a little more than 1 foot from the ground, and the numerous flowers were of rosy-lilac colour (Award of Merit). Orchid Committee. Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., in the Chair ; and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Secretary), De B. Crawshay, "VV. A. Bilney, N. C. Cookson, W. Boxall, W. H. Young, H. A. Tracy, A. A. McBean, W. H. "White, G. F. Moore, H. " Ballantine, R. G. Thwaites. J. Douglas, E. Ashworth, W. Cobb, H. Little, "\V. Bolton, R. Brooman-'White, and Francis "Wellesley. G. F. Moore, Esq., Bourton-on-the-AVater (gr., Mr. "\V. H. Page), was awarded the Gold Medal for a magnificent group of Cypripediums, L^elia anceps varieties, Calanthes, Sophronitis, &c. The Cypripe- diums were represented by many fine and rare speci- mens, all well bloomed and finely grown, ami bearing in the aggregate about .3.50 flowers. The Ltelia anceps were plants of the white varieties, bearing together 40 spikes. Among the Cypripediums noted were C. x Mrs. "Wm. Mostyn, Chardwar variety, different in habit to Mr. "NVellesley's form, which had previously secured a First-class Certificate, but evidently of the same parentage ; a fine C. x aureum virginale, C. x nitens Ball's variety, C. X Fascinator, C. x Thomp- soni, C. x Troilus, C. x Evenor, varieties of C. x Leeanum and C. insigne, C. x Amy Moore, a very fine hybrid. Messrs. SANDER & SONS, St. Albans, received a Silver Flora Medal for a neat group in which the central plant was the noble Cypripedium x Leeanum J. Gurney Fowler, which secured a First-class Certifi- cate (see Awards). At one end was a pan of the new and singular Cypri])edium Gratrixianum recently dis- covered by Messrs. Sander's collector Micholitz. The broad leaves of some of the plants somewhat resemble C. Haynaldianum, the flowers being between those of C. exul and C. x nitens. Others noted were the fine C. x Rolfii stui>endura, C. x Phoebe exquisitum, C. x Lad}' AVimborne, C. x nitens splendidum, C. x Helen II., Deudrobium x Schneiderianum, two fine specimens of D. nobile nobilius, and the pretty and singular Epi- Lselia x Fletcheriana (E. atropurpureum x L. harpo- phylla). The spikes bore one to three pretty orange- coloured flowers with white labellums tinted with rose. Mr. J. CvPHER, Cheltenham, secured a Silver Flora Medal for a very bright group of good things staged in his customary effective manner. In the centre were a number of good Lajlia ancejis Sanderiana, many bearing five flowers on a spike, and with them the variety giganteum with the purple middle lobe of the lip much expanded. A fine Cypripedium x Morgani;e bore three spikes; the pretty and distinct C. x Leer- anum Cypher's variety, twenty flowers, and others were equally well flowered ; C. x nitens Arle Courtr variety was a good and well-marked form ; C. x La- thamianum had twelve blooms, and C. x Madarae^- Jules Hye, C. x Charlesianum giganteum, good varieties of C. x Sallieri and C. x Lilian Greenwood were also noted. Other fine features in Mr. Ctphi:r'& group were a very handsome Odontoglossum x crispo- Harryanum, with a grand spike of large white flowers finely barred with purple ; and good Lycaste Skinner alba. Messrs. Charlesworth k Co., Bradford, received a Silver Flora RIedal for a very fine group of hybrid' Orchids, in which a good show of the fine orange-and- crimson Lslio-Cattleya x Charlesworthii as usual in- the winter groups were the principal feature. Other good hybrids were the new pale yellow L.-C. x Andro- meda. L. - C. X Digbyano-"NVarscewiczii, and other hybrids of L. Digbyana and some Odontoglossums. M. Ch.^s. Vuylsteke, Loochristy, Ghent, was- awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a small coUection- of hybrid Odontoglossums, including two good O. x Vuyistekei, one being a magnificent dark variety r two good O. X AVilckeanum, O. x crispo- Harry anum,.. O. X loochristyense, and a pretty hybrid between O. X crispo- Harryanum and O. crispum. Messrs. Jas. Veitch k Sons, Chelsea, staged a com- pact group in which the best things were Cypripediunv X ^son giganteum, a bold flower of fine substance ?. C. X Baron Schroeder, finely blotched with purple ;; C. X Evadne, C. x Creon, C. x Actfexis albida, C. insigne Sanderte Veitch's variety, a good fornix raised from seeds ; Selenipedium x Pallene (leucor- rhodum x Boissierianum), a delicate white flower - tinted with pink ; and C. x Leucas (Niobe x insigne- Sanderse), which resembles a pale form of C. x Priam. The Right Hon. Lord Rothschild, Tring Park (gr.^ Mr. Arthur Dye), sent a large photograph of a magni- ficent plant of Phalienopsis Schilleriana, natural size. The plant was purchased at the Burton Constable sale^ 1881, and it has flowered freely in its season ever since. The specimen, which was photographed at Tring Park, January 9, 1905, bore a flower-spike- having seven main branches and eleven secondary branches, with eighty-eight expanded flowers and" eleven buds. The two longest leaves were lo\ inches in length by 5^ in width, and the specimen probably the best ever seen under cultivation. The flowers were- between 3 and 4 inches across. De B. Crawshat, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks (gr.„ Mr. Stables), showed the rare Maxillaria Lindenae, ^vith fine white fragrant flowers, with pink lines on the- petals and yellow-and-brown lip. F. Menteith Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery, Oxford (gr., Mr. Balmforth), showed the pretty Cypripedium. X Venus, C. x Maudiie magnificum, varieties of C. x aureum, and two other Cypripediums, which securetJ Awards. Also a specimen of Lselia anceps Sanderiana. with several spikes, the best having six flowers. Fr.vncis "NVelleslet, Esq., Westfield, "Woking (gr.,. Mr. Hopkins), showed the beautiful Cypripedium x Mrs. Wm. Mostyn, which previously obtained a First-class- Certificate ; the new Cypripedium x Mrs. Francis "Wel- lesley (Sanderianum x Gowerianum) ; the very hand- some C. X Hera Westfield variety ; C. x Dickson- ianum (villosum x memoria Sloensii), a showy flower having a rose-purple upper sepal with white tip and yellow petals, and lip tinged with red-brown ; C. x Cassandra Westfield variety ; and Lselia x Clio (glauca- x cinnabarina), with yellow flower. J. Gurnet Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South "Wood- ford (gr., Mr. Davis), showed Cypripedium x Mrs. E. V. Low (insigne x niveum), and the richly-coloured C. x Mrs. Wm. Mostyn, Chardwar variety. Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, staged a small, collection, in which was a well-flowered plant of Cypri- pedium X Minos, Low's variety, with several flowers \. C. x aureum virginale, and other Cypripediums ; also a good plant of Lycaste Skinneri alba. Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, "Wylam (gr.,. Mr. Chapman), showed Calanthe x Magpie (Wm. Murray x seedling), a good dark rose-coloured flower, mottled with white ; C. x Phoebe (Veitchii x Turnerii)^ of an uniform light rose colour, and three others which, secured Awards. J. Forster Alcock, Esq., Northchurch. Herts (gr., Mr. Foster), sent Cypripedium insigne NorthchurcK variet}-. Messrs. Duchesne Lanthoink & Co., Watermael^ Belgium, showed a form of Cypripedium insigne January 28, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. CI ■with a clear greenish-yellow flower with white upper half to the dorsal sepal. Awards. FiRST-CLvVss Certificate. Ci/prtpedium x Lecanuvi "J. Gurnei/ Fo^Dler," from Messrs. Sander & SoN.s.— The most massive form of C. X Leeanum, and with the thick snlistance of C. > aureum. Dorsal sepal broader than high, pure white with a small green base and median purple line petals and lip broad, cream-white tinged and marked with j>urple, the petals having a distinct sulphur-white margin. Calanthc x Chapviamt ( x burfordiense x Oakwood Eubj). — The perfection of the clever work on C'alanthes at Oakwood. Flowers deep crimson, with a small, lighter eye. A finely -shaped flower and of large size. Quite the most gorgeously coloured Calanthe. Awards of Merit. Ct/pripedium x San-Act(eus (insigne Sanderie x Actteus), from Norman C. Cookson, Esq. — An attractive hybrid, with greenish flowers, excepting the greater part of the dorsal sepal, which is pure white. Odontofjlossum X mirificum (luteo - purpureum aceptrum x crispum), from NoRJiAN C. Cookson, Esq. — A well-formed flower, cream-white, profusely marked with chestnut-brown colour. Lwtio - Cattlcf/a x Ckarlesworthii ■magnifica, from Francis Wellesley, Esq., "Westfield, "VVoking (gr., Mr. Hopkins). — A great improvement on the original form. Flowers reddish-orange, with claret-red label- lum, veined with gold. Ciipripediuin x G. F. Moore {Mrs. Wm. Mostyn Chardward variety x Sallieri aureum), from G. F. MoORE, Esq. (gr. Mr. Pagej.^A magnificent hybrid, which will still further improve. The flowers partake of the character of C. Sallieri, but the large dorsal sepal is cream-white, with a few purplish markings. The texture of the flower is wax-like and its surface glossy. Ct/pripcdium x aureum (" The Shrubbery variety"), from F. Menteith Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery, Oxford (gr. Blr. Balmforth). — A very large and finely- formed flower ; greenish- white tinged with purple, the greater part of the upper sepal pure white. Ciipripediuvi x iaiyre^jc^ ("TheShrubbery variety"), from F. Menteith Ogilvie, E^q.— Flower almost wholly iniri)lish-crimson, changing to rose towards the white margin of the dorsal sepal. CattleiM X Octave Doin {Slendeli" x Dowiana aurea), from Messrs. Charlesworth k Co., Bradford. A pretty flower with blush-white sepals and petals, and ruby-crimson lip veined in the throat with yellow. Cultural Commendation to Mr. H. Alexander, Orchid grower to Captain G. L. HOLFORD, C.I.E., Westonbirt, for a grand plant of Odontoglossum x Adrianse var. Countess of Morley, with many flower-spikes. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present: A. H. Pearson, Esq., in the Chair; and Metssrs. Jas. H. Veitch, F. Q. Lane, Geo. Keif, Alex. T>''an, S. Mortimer, W. Bates, J. Cheal, H. Parr, "W. Fyfe, Ed. Beckett, J. Willard, O. Thomas, J. Jii'iues, Geo. Noiman, and Jas. Gibson. A^; usual there were several dishes of Apples pre- HLiitepealed to us were the varieties labelled Bi.ston Russet, Newland Sack, Forester {a pleasing culinary variety), and Honey. Sir W. D. Pearson, Bart., M.P., Paddockhurst, Sussex (gr., Mr. Wadds), presented a box of Sutton"s AVinter Beauty Tomato. The fruits were well finished, and the grower was given a Cultural Commendation. Mr. H. J. Jones, nurseryman, Lewisham, set up an extensive exhibit of Potatos, staging 130 varieties. As fancy baskets and a white table-ground were used for their display, they made an imposing exhibit and at- tracted much attention. Mostof the newer varieties that have been so much in evidence recently were included, also the latest novelty from America, Noroton Beauty, which has acquired a considerable reputation in the United States. Lecture on Fruit Preserving. In the afternoon the Assistant Secretary (Jlr. Thos. E. Sedgwick) delivered a lecture on "The German Methods of Fruit Preserving." Mr. J. L. "Wood occupied the Chair. After pointing oiit that by the term *' preservation of fruit " are understood various means for carrying over the overplus of one season or one j'ear for use in anotlier, when the fruits or vegetables in question cannot be obtained in a fresh state and in sufficient quantities, the lecturer pointed out that while there was a great number of books devoted to the subject in German, and a few in French, there was no handbook or compendium on fruit-preserving in the English language. The German Government's efforts to encourage and aid both fruit-growing and the disposal of the crop to the best advantage weie mentioned. These included State Loans, Acts of Parliament, and large expenditure on Government Fruit Schools, the principal of which was the Royal School of Ganlen, Fruit, and Vine- culture at Geisenheini, on the Rhine. The thoroughness and attention to details evinced by Germans in all their un, and treated the overplus of fresh fruit for preserving. . A series of German labour-saving machines was exhibited ; some removed a fine shaving of peel from Api)les or Pears, some also cored and ringed them at the same operation, some were designed to cut Beans and other vegetables in uniform slices, but the machine which attracted the most attention was a small domes- tic " Gnom " evaporator, which could be placed over an ordinary kitchen range, and thus be applied to dry the fruit or vegetables by means of the waste heat of the range. The form of this machine was extremel3' simple ; an iron frame was filled with wooden trays, each of which had a wire bottom, thus allowing the hot air to pass tlirough all the trays and to remove the moisture from the tissue of the fruit laid thereon. This water could be restored by soaking the dried material in wate^-, but care should then be taken to cook it in the water in which it had been soaked. The larger factory machines were also mentioned. The various systems of bottling and tinning at present practised in Germany were described, and a series of vacuum and screw-stoitpered glass bottles and solderless tins was shown and the methods and advantages of their respective use described. Considerable stress was laid on the care that the Germans always take in placing foods on the English market to ensure their being uniformly graded, of recognised good quality and flavoiir, and carefully packed in their bottles without too much juice or sugar solution either above or below the body of the frvnt. The absence in Germany of jam or marmalade as understood by us was replaced by three methods of preparation, named marmalade, must (pulp), and mark (marrow), all of which were treated in a similar manner, but with varying quantities of added sugar and different extent of boiling. The fruit is boiled, and when soft is forced through a sieve, and the pulp thus derived is again boiled and then potted for use. In Germany the skins, cores, and oddments of fruit are often treated together so as to avoid waste, ami the product sold for household purposes. The Germans were, however, already studying the English systems of jam-making, doubtless with an ultimate eye upon our own markets. The experiments and reports winch had already been made as to various methods of fruit preserving in this country were summarised, and it was noted that absence of large fruit and vegetable-drying factories in our own country compelled the English Government to spend millions of pounds in Germany during the late South African war. The formation of the National Fruit Growers' Federation and of the National Fruit and Cider Institute, anpointment by the Board of Agriculture of a Departmental Committee on Fruit, all tended to show that om' fruit industry was waking up to the great possibilities of the future ; and the exhibition of jams and bottled fruits in the Royal Horticultural Hall in December, 11104, had shown that the English are still able to preserve fruit in a manner which will compare favourably with that of our Continental rivals, who on that occasion failed to send a single exhibit, and thus we should look forward with confidence to the time when all our dried and bottled fruit and jams are home-grown and home-preserved, and all fresh fruit requirad for our markets in the colder seasons will be provitied by the Colonics of our Empire. NATIONAL POTATO. AVe extract the following particulars from the Report of the Society's Proceedings in 1004 : — AN ELECTION OF POTATOS. In view of the nximber of applications received for advice as to the choice of Potatos for various purposes, it was decided to institute an election among members of the Society, with a view of ascertaining what the majority of the exjierts thought about the matter. A form was issued, the result of which is tabulated herewith. The varieties are shown in order, according to the number of votes they received. Where certain varieties are bracketed they received an equal number of votes. A few comments on the returns may he of interest. (1) The presence of Royal Kidney, Factor, Sir John Llewelyn, and Northern Star, in section after section, proves the sterling all-round merit of these sorts. (2) Mr. Findlay's varieties loom largely throughout. (H) The appearance of Evergood at the head of three sections proves that in spite of the disappointing results of which some growers have complained, it is a variety to he reckoned with, especially for damp, heavy land. On strong clay in the Secretary's garden it has thriven splendidly. (4) King Edward VII. is the most popular coloured . Potato. (5) The prominence of Langworthy in the best-for- ■ flavour section will draw merited attention in England to a variety long esteemed in Scotland for its cooking qualities. ((>) Up-to-Date is declining in general favour. (7) Discovery, as a very late-growing disease-resister, earns the praise of many shrewd growers. (8) The total number of varieties which received votes was as follows : — Section 1, 82 ; Section 2, 91 ; Section 3. 01 ; Section 4, ()2; Section 5, 42 ; Section G, 44 ; Section 7, 24 ; Section 8, 23 ; Section 9, 43 ; Sec- tion 10, 48; Section 11, 53; Section 12, GO. It had been hoped to publish the names, but the number is too great. (0) Owners of meritorious novelties will doubtless be of opinion that their specialities deserve precedence over certain of the varieties herein honoured. Probably this is BO, deserving novelties will come to the front in due course. This election does not in any way pre- judice them ; it serves the purpose of giving the large number of Potato growers who cannot afford to buy expensive novelties a useful guide to the best standard sorts. From this point of view it admirably serves its purpose. The Best White Kidneys FOR Exhibition. 1 Sir John Llewelyn (Royal Kidney Satisfaction (Sutton) Snowdro]) Duke of York Factor The Best Coloured Rounds for Exhibition. 1 Reading Russet (Sutton) 1 Vicar of Laleham I } 1 The Best Disease- resisting Potatos. 1 Evergood (Findlay) , \ Discovery (Suttnn) "■} Rov.'tl KidiK-v (Kiiidlay) 4 Nni-Mirni Star (h'indlay) '» Sir Jolui Llf_wiMyn(Harris) il King Edward V[l (Butler) 7 Eldorado (Findluy) 5 Factor (Dobbie) The Best Potatos for Flavour. L Langworthy (Niven) 1 -j Sir John Llewelyn ( Factor 4 Royal Kidney 5 Evergood , ( DucliessofCoi-nwail(Kerr) I Snowdrop The Best Potatos for Heavy Land. 1 Evorgood 2 Royal Kidney 3 Northern Star . ( Factor *1 Up-to-Date (Findlay) \S Diielmss of Cornwall {Langworthy Windsor Castle (Sutton) Sir John Llewelyn The Best Pota'tos for Lhjht Soil. 1 Sir John Llewelyn '2. Nortliern Star 3 Evergood i Factor 4^ Royal Kidnev / King Edward \\\. r / Hritish Queen (Findlay) ■' I Duke of York (Dani.-ls) The Best White Rounds l-OR EXHllJITION, 1 Windsor Castlo 2 Northern St;ir ., /Cig!inatwei ; but two unaccountable failures are recorded against Up-to-date at Edmonton and at Cresswell, Stoke -on- Trent, which reduce its position consideraV)ly in the average returns per acre. Many of the groweis K'port that these two varieties apj)ear to l)e identical in growth and habit. Doubtless the dry season has much to do with the excellent results yielded by the old T fp-to-Date, which has always been a dry-season 3'otato. Royal Kidney and British Queen come next in order, each iieing the heaviest croj,)per on two occasion. Both varieties cropped well, but the evidence points to these beiug distinctly inferior in this respect to Factor and Up-to-Date. fminediately Jt^iind them came Evergood and Ctamond Blossom, which are almost exactly equal. The season did not .seem to suit Evergood, whereas Cramond Blos.som grew vigorously, but was rather disappointiug when lifted, having suffered much from glowing out. King Edward VII. gave about the same average crop^i and on one occasion came out first among all the varieties by .i few marks. Empress Queen did badly, but the fault in many- cases lay wth the seed, which was not satisfactory of either this variety or King Edward VIl. The last two varieties, Sir John , Llewelyn aud ]SMnety-fold, ought not properly to be considered alongside the others; they are early varieties, and should be treated on different lines from the othex uiaincrop varieties. The seed of these two v^irieties was not very good. Indeed the whole vaiuf- of the trials is somewliat afi'ected by the indifferent character of the seed available in 1904, com]>liiints were general of blanks, and some varieties suffered much more than others. If tlie trials are repeated iu 190.5 with the seed derived from the 1!)04 trials better results wiU accrue. Incidence of Disease. — The disease of i;)04 came late, but was pretty general. Details were not always furnished of the amount of diseased Potatos, init the following list shows the totals obtained by adding the records together from all of the centres which gave jiarticulars : niteus var. superbum {<> Vunanimitv) ; for C. de Lang- heanum {par raj^'pcl) ; C auriferimi, C. Madeleine, 0. Spiceriano-nitens. C. Albertiauo-nitens, G. Albertiano (C. Chantini x 0. Sallieri Hyeanum)(a^•ec/t/^c^^t^/o?ls du Jurii) ; for C. Acheron, Cattleya Trianre var. (t> /'vnanimiti), aud for C. Triause. M. C, Vincke- Dujardin of Bruges, obtained similar Awards for each of the following Orchids : Cattleya Trian.-e Mile. Suzanne Vincke {'(vcc felicitations tin, Jvrt/) ; for C. Triauie (three separate specimens). L?elio-Cattleya Gin no-Warner i (L. cinnabarina x G. "Warneri) was staged by M. F. de Bitjvre, head gardener at Laeken Palace ; Cypripedium Elmireanum superbum, by M. Pynaert van Gecrt ; Cattleya Triana;, by M. Praet ; Lfelia Finckenniana (L. albida x anceps Sanderiana), hyb. nat., by the Marquis de AVavrin, and Ltelia anceps Amesipe, by the same exhibitor {(>. Vunanimitv). Certificates for superior cultivation and flowering were allotted for LkUo- Cattleya Bievieanum (L. crispo ■<■ G. Rex), from M. F. de IJievre ; Cypripedium niteus var. Houtteana, from M. de Schryver-Block, and for Cattleya Trianie from il. Vincke-Dujardin. The following Honourable Mtntions were given : for Cypripedium Dauiyre (G. Sallieri x C. insigne Chan- tini), from AIM. Janssens & Putzeys ; for C. aureimi Ibis and C. aureum Gyrus, both from M. F. Lam- beau ; and fur C. Trianee from G. Vincke-Dujardin ; and C, Triame, from M. E. Praet. In the Second Section of the Exhibition M. Th. de Martelaere obtained a Certificate of Merit for Carna- tion Mme. Th, de Martelaere : M. Pynaert van Geert, a Certificate for cultivation and flowering of Cvrto- ceras reflexum, and M, L. de Smet Duirirer. Cultural Certificates for Ficuspandurata and for F. neriifolia. lb. Ih. Cramond Blossom . . -liO Royal Kidney . . :12 Britisli Queeu ... . I5S Erergbod 30 Ui>to-Date .. K.') Xing Edward VII. •M Factor .. U(t Einpi'eas »iueen .. 13 Thus Royal Kidney give result. comparatively the best Flavour. — The reports are so contlicting that no general conclusions can be drawn. Northern widows — were each receiving, for life, £2U and i'ltl a year resjjectively, involving an annual liability of £^.i,71Ki. During the vear 17 of that number have died-- 11 men and G widows — whilst one man has relinquished the jjension in consequence of a change in his circumstances, and one widow has l)een removed to an asylum, owing to her mental condition, thus creating IU vacancies. Of this number two were filled in by the Committee in accordance with Rule III., 13 being widows wliose distressing circumstances rendered them eligible for the allowance of i,T(J a year. The number of pensioners, therefore, at the end of the year was li'O, and the Committee recommend the increa.^e to-day of that number by the election of 18 from a list of 50 approved applicants, as set forth in the voting papers, making a total of 208 pensioner.s, the largest number of beneficiaries on the funds in receipt of annuities for life at any period in the histor}* of the Institution. The Committee are keenly sensible of the pressmg needs of the many applicants appealing for aid, and heartily wish they were justified in extending the benefits of the Institution to a much larger number. The anniversary festival dinner, held in June last, was a verj' great success, a large sum being raised on behalf of the funds. This result was ruainly due to the well-deserved popularity of the Treasurer (Harry J. Veitch, Esq.), who occupied the chah- on the occasion, and whose convincing and able advocacy of the claims of the Institution, his untiring zeal aud devotion to its cause, met with so ready and gratitying a response from all parts of the United Kingdom ; in consequence of which a much-needed further sum of £1,000 has been added to the 'Victorian Era Fund.' The Committee tender to Mr. Veitch their most gratefid thanks for his services and liberality on this as on all other occasions in connection with the cause. They fiuther desire to place on record their deep sense of indebtedness to Mr. Veitch for his kindness and generosity in compiling and issuing, at his own ex- pense, a ' Histor} of the Institution,' which has already proved of much benefit in creating and sustaining interest in the work. The Committee have also to express their sincere thanks to those gentlemen who acted as stewards and collector's in connection with the Festival : to the donors of fruit and tiowers ; to I\Ir. James Hudson for superintending the decoration of the tables ; to the Horticultural Press for its valued gratuitous ser\'ices Rt. Hon. Earl Beau champ, K.C.M.G. WonCESTER. I J. Hill White, Esq. I Mr. PercvC. White. Devon and Exeter. C. R. Collins. Esq. 1 Mr, W. Mackay. | Mr. W. Mackay. Wolterhampton. C. T. Mander. Esq., I Mr. Bradley. | Mr. R, Lowe. J.P. I I Berkshire, Reading and District. Robert Grev, Esq. I Arthur W Sutton, I Mr. H. Q. Cox. Esq..J.r., I V.M.H. 1 Liverpool Auxiliary. Rt. Hon. I A. J. Crippin, | Mr Col. the Rt. Hon. 1 A. J. Crippin, I Mr- R. G. the Earl of Derby, Esq. Waterman. K.G., G.C.B. i I Acknowledgment is also made, and sincere thanks tendered, to the "Hurst & Sou" Musical Society (Edward Sherwood, Esq., President) for their kindness in allocating the jiroceeds of a dramatic performance given on behalf of the funds : to Mr. A. J. Brown, of Chertsey ; and to the Gardeners" Mutual Improvement Society at Altrincham, for organising successfnl concerts in the same cause. The Committee would also refer to the kindness of Arthm- AV. Sutton. Esq., in contributing the sum of i:20 to pay a year's pension to AV. Smith, the highest unsuccessful candidate at the last election, whose case was of a most necessitous character. This candidate has recently died, but the help afforded by Mr. Sutton's timely generosity was a som-ce of much comfort to him. Efficient aid in mak-ing the claims of the Institution more widely known was rendered by Leonard Sutton, Esq., who gave a haudsome donation expressly for that pur]iose with very gratifying results. The Committee offer these gentlemen their most cordial thanks. The "Victorian Era Fimd"and the '"Good Sama- ritan Fund " still continue to be the means of providing much needed benefits. The Committee have been able during the past year to distribute from the first-named Fimd the sum of £150 2.s. to the unsuccessful candidates at the last election who had formerly been subscribers in amounts proportionate to the length of time they had subscribed, aud £'J0 has been given from the latter Fund to numerous applicants, whether subscribers or not, who were found to be in urgent want of temporary assistance. The Committee cannot emphasise too strongly the value and usefulness of these two Funds ; from the one they are enabh d to help the ' ' waiting '' candidate, who, but for its aid, would receive no assistance until elected on the permanent funds, and from the other they are able to bestow gratuities in cases of emergency and need. It is a matter for thanlcfidness, as already men- tioned, that the Committee have been able to add tl.unO to the capital of the "Victorian Era Funrl," thus increasing its annual income and providing a larger sum for vearly distribution. The Committee, with very great pleasure, draw atten- tion to the munificent gift of £500 from N. N. Sher- wood, Esq. (trustee), for the purimse of founding a ])ension to be called the "May Sherwood Campbell" "Widow's Pension. The Committee most gratefully thank Mr. Sherwood for his benefaction and for this further proof of his continued practical sympathy iu the work by specially provitUng for a widow's declining , years. As in the previous reports the Committee have again to deplore the loss, through death, of many staunch friends and supporters in the past year. Foremost amongst them fnay he n entioned the Very Rev. the Dean of Rochester, and Mr. S. Osborn. Dean Hole had been associated with the Institution for many years. He presided at the Ainiiversary Fes- tival iu 1872, and liad often been present at subsequent Festivals, making cloc|uent and touching appeals on its behalf. In season and ovit of season he was ever ready to evince his sympathies with the work. His loss will be keenly felt, and his kind and valued services will ever be gratefully remembered. Mr. Osborn had been a member of the Gonmiittee of Management since 1880, and was a regular attendant at its meetings ; a practical gardener himself, and one who had for so long taken an active part in the atfairs of the Institution, his experience and opinions were much valued by his colleagues, by whom he will be greatlv missed. JANTJABY 28, 1905.J THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 63 The Committee are glad to be able to announce that the Duke of Westminster has kindly consented to pre- side at the sixty-seventh Anniversary Festival Dinner, to take place on June l(i next, at the 'Whitehall Rooms, Hotel Metropole. They trust His Grace will receive a large measure of support on the occasion, and that the Festival will prove as successful on behalf of the Institution as those hitherto held. In conclusion, the Committee earnestly solicit increased support to their work. At the close of to- day's election there will he thirty-five applicants left on the list who are appealing for permanent aid, some of whom are blind. To assist them an additional income is required, and whilst not lacking in thankful- ness for the means placed at their disposal in the past, the Committee again plead for renewed effort, so that with a larger income they may feel warranted in ex- tending the benevolence of this National Horticultural Charity to a greater number of those who "justh- lay claim to its help." BAL.iSCE-SHEET, 1901. To Balance £1,027 16 1 Amount on Deposit y,26o 10 n Annual Subscriptions £1,6.5.3 o (j Donations at, and in conse- cjuence of. Festival Dinner, inoluding Colleotlng Cards 2,915 K 10 Special Donations, N. Shei-- wood. Esq 500 Legacy, the late H. Herbst, Esq 100 Return of Income T.'tx .3j ^ 7 Advertisements in Annual Report 46 ]s 6 Dividends and Interest ... 865 3 6 6,117 3 11 £10,410 10 a By Pensions and Gratuities ... Expenses of Annual Meeting and Election Kent, Cleaning, Firing, Light- ing, &c., including Salaries of Secretary and Clerk Printing, including Annual Report and Polling Papers... Stationery, including Cheque Books Advertisement in Fry's Chari- ties Festival Dinner Expenses !.'. Postages, includirg Annual Re- poits. Polling Papers, Ac. ... Travelling Expenses Carriage, Telegrams, Insur- ance, and Incidental Expenses Bank Charges Amount invested and trans- ferred to the "Victorian Era Fund" ],000 Amount Invested (N. Sherwood, Esq's. Special Donation) ... 500 3 3 43 17 Placed on Deposit, including Legacy Balance with Treasurer 1,046 6 Balance with Secretary 2 3 £10,410 10 3 We the Auditors of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution, have this day examined ihe Books, to- gethei- with the Bankers' Certificate of Securities de- posited with them, and found everything correct We also wish to state that the books are exceedingly well (Signed) THOMAS MANNING. T. SWIFT. , J. WILLARD. Jan. 17, 190.5. VICTORIAN ERA FUND, 1904 To Balance, Dec. 31, 1903 £140 M 1 Donations £87 16 Dividends 125 7 9 Return of Income Tax 6 9 9 By Gratuities Balance Dec. 31. 1904 £1.59 2 181 9 7 199 12 6 £340 11 7 £340 11 7 £340 11 7 GOOD SAMARITAN FUND, 1904. To Balance Deo. 31, 1903 ... Donations, 1904 Dividends Return of Income Tax... ~By Gratuities Balance Dec. 31, 1904 .!! Audited and found correct. (Signed) £19 1 64 6 6 2 16 4 £90 239 13 2 £253 9 4 76 3 10 £.329 13 ■> £329 13 2 SOCIETY FOR HORTICULTUBAL SCIENCE. The Society for Horticultural Science met at Phila- delphia, Pa., during the annual meeting of the American Association for the advancement of science on December 27 last, and bad a very successful gathering. There was a good proportion of the members present, and several important papers were presented, of which abstracts are given below. One of the sessions took the form of a union meeting with the Society for I'romoting Agricultural .Science, and the addresses of the two Presidents were listened to by the combined audiences. "What i.s Hor.Tirui,TURE ? Dr. L. H. Bailey, De.in of the CoUege of Agriculture =<■' Cornell, in his address discussed the problem 'What IS Horticulture'/" He took up the question of the growth of horticulture as a specialized subject. It had originally begun as an offshoot from botanw It was a growing interest and would in the future become more and more sub-divided. Horticulture joins hands with the plant biologists on the one hand, and with business on the other. Horticulture is contri' buting greatly to our national wealth ; it supplies important foods. He felt that the work in the future would be not to develop so much something we can name so much as something we can measure — to make better plants and to enable cultivators to im- prove the plants they now grow. Then there was the art side of the subject, covering the whole ground of rural improvement and home adornment. The i\a.\ must come when each home would have its plant room, not necessarily indoors, just as it now had its liorary. In the teaching of horticulture in the col- leges there must bo greater segmentation, and the subject would break up differently in different parts of the country, according to the condition of affairs. There were many commercial sides, each of which needed a specialist. Botany has declined to extend its sphere to subjects that come too near to real human affairs, and has left a larger part of its domain uncul- tivated. Horticulture has seized this territory : it should hold it. Orchard Culture. Professor John Craic; discussed the value of an orchard survey, the purpose being to ascertain the causes underlying failure or success, aside from the personal question involved. In other words, to ascer- tain the underlying fundamental principles of orchard management by an actual analysis of practical condi- tions. The conclusions often arrived at by the inves- tigator did not carry the weight they deserved, veiy often because the volume of facts dealt with was too small to make an impression on the practical grower. He felt that if these facts couhl be gathered from the field and orchard on a larger scale — take an entire county, for instance, and map its orchards — they woidd have a much better reception from the practical man. The Horse Bean. Professor AV. T. Macoun, of Ottawa, Can., reported on the value of the Horse Bean as a cover crop in rows. POTATOS. H. J. Eustace, of the New York station, reporteil some successful results in the breeding of Potatos for increased yield. He showed the possibility of enor- mously increasing the Potato crop of the country by breeding stock for seed. In a field of one variety the yield per hill varied enormouslv— fromllj to .5.3 ounces From 100 hills the 2.5 heaviest and 2.5 lightest were selected. The process was continued till 125 hills of each were had. These were duly planted and given good ordinary care and attention.' The crops gathered were uniformly in accord with the ancestrv. The average yield from the 10 rows heavy seed hills was 3(J2 bushels 15 lb. per acre ; that from the light seeil hills (5 rows), 3311 bushels 1(1 llj. per acre— a gain of 23 bushels lb. per acre of marketable tubers. Horticultural Work. Professor John Craih, of Cornell, drew attention to a great number of questions that were still unsolved in horticulture and suggested that the Society coidd with advantage evolve some plan of co-operation of its members, looking to the simultaneous work on a problem in dlf erent parts of the country. He endorsed research woik along the lines laid down in the paper of Professor Hedrick ; also the inlhiencc of stock on scion and the reverse ; again, how iloes the stock influence the fruit ? How can we secure definite variation '/ True, these cannot be answered in the lifetime of the individual, but the individual must begin in order that the institution shall continue. Jan. 17, 1905. £.329 13 2 THOMAS MANNING. T. SWIFT. J. WILLARD. The Electric Light. Professor C. P. Cl.o.SE detailed recent experiments in the growing of plants in the new Cooper-Hewett mer cury-vapour electric light, which had been made at the Delaware station. The 4-H pattern lamps were used. The rays have no red in them and looked at through a rod glass no light can he seen. The candle-power of each lamp is about ffiO, and the expense per candle is about one-eighth that of the candle-power of the in- candescent light and about three-fourths that of the are light. Grand Kapids and Boston Market Lettuces were used in the experiment ; seeds sown December l-l. These were put into a chamber from which daylight was excluded, after they had made four to six leaves, all of which were removed. Plants from a sowing on .January 25 were also put in at the same time. These had four small leaves and they were left on. The cultural conditions were not of the best, as regards ventilation and heat during the growing or lighted part of the twenty-four hours ; it was at night that the light was on. Of the first setting all were lost by disease except a dozen immediately beneath the light. Eadiahes were also grown. From a commercial view the experi- ment was not a success. Chlorophyll was formed, but the plants made a very spindly g'rowth. The object in view was the utilisation of basement barns, and under more favourable circumstances the results must be better. In the course of a discussion it was the feeling that the light might be used as a supplement to natural daylight in forcing salad plants during the "dark d.ays " of midwinter. DEFIKITION 01.' VaRlETIES. The importance of co-ordinated variety tests, a subject that received the serious attention of the Society at the St. Louis meeting, was again brought uj' in the two papers of Professor L. C. CoRBElT and Professor W. W. Tracy, both of the Department of Agriculture. The first-named described a system of variety record blanks, which had been devised and had been in use for two years, and the further use of which he felt would tend to properly classify garden varieties in vegetables, and make the introduction of spurious novelties less likely to occur. The great need at present was to arrive at a definite understand- ing of what really constituted a horticultural va- riety, as the general trade descriptions, in many eases, dealt with generalities and, in some cases, could ac tually he reversed. The descriptions of two Tomatos, Stone and Success, were cited. It is evident that neither seed-growers nor the producers of exhibition plants have any fixed notion regarding varieties. This shows the necessity of carefullv executed de- scriptive records. It was stated that the stocks used for these co-ordinated variety tests should have a common origin and be grown under the same en- vironment long enough to have been properly fixed. Professor Tracy, in his paper, emphasised the necessity of having a distinct varietal type to adhere to in seed-growing. He told of many confusing cases as one in which there were two types of Melon in the introduction of a new variety ; one grower had selected his stock to the green type, another to the white rind type. The importance of minute distinctions from the practical standpoint was great, as in Lettuce, where a difference in texture of leaf meant a better forcing variety, but grown outside there was no differ- ence discernible. There were three distinct types of Refugee Wax Bean in the American seed trade to-day. The same thing was true in other vegetables. This instability ot type has led to substitution being lookerl upon lightly in the seed trade. Horticulturists should demand from the introducer of a new variety a distinct and accurate description of what he considers the type to which it should be grown, and this should be rigidly adhered to in the growing of seed to be sold under that name. A Commitee of the Society was appointed to make an investigation of this whole subject, to report at the next meeting of the Society, the two presenters of the papers being named with power to add to their number. Carnation. Mr. JesseB.Norton, of theDepartmentof Agriculture, told of some recent experiments that are being carriea oil there in the breeding of Carnations, and exhihiteil a number of seedling flowers to illustrate his deduc- tions on the application of Mendel's law to the breeding of such. He classified the seedling flowers into three groups, as single, semi-double, and double What he calls semi-double are the typical florists flowers ; the doubles embracing the split cal3^\, and monster flowers, which an investigation showed have all the stamens transformed into petals. In the semi-doubles they are not so modified, hence do not burst the calyx. In the seedlings of one capside all these types are reiiresented in a seemingly regular proportion. Thus the following figures were given as actual records :— double (J 1 double 74 ) semi-double 15 [-total 2S semi-double 147 -total 273 single 7 ! single .52 ) Other characters also coincided with these figurcii as. for instance, the matter of odour. According to the? law we should expect to have the progeny of a hybriil separate into the domiiuint and recessive types in the proportions of 1, 2, 1. This, wo find, very nearlv approximated by the figures given above. As a suggestion to the practical florist he asks, " Would it not be well to cross the single and the extreme double types, rather tiian always selecting both parents from 6t THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [January 28, 1905. the standard types, as by that method there should be a greater proportion of true florists' type produced — that is, if Meudel's law holds?" The work has only just commenced at Washington, and these suggestions were but the inferences drawn from an examination of the results so far obtained. Plant Associations. In an interesting paper on the relationships of plants in the orchard, Professor U. P. Hedrick, of Michigan, opened a very important topic. He urged the necessity of studying the growing relationships of plants as cultivated for economic purposes, especially in regard to the orchard. It had been demonstrated long ago that certain species of grasses did best when grown together. Mr. Spencer Pickering, in England, had con- ducted recent experiment^ on the effect of grasses grown about Apple-trees. Thistles are said to poison Oats ; and the Peach and Potato do not do well together. May not plants affect the soil organisms? A knowledge of the societies of cultivated plants should help us in the stvidy of climate and soils in fruit growing. In botany wc give definite names to plant societies ; we speak of tliis or that flora and all under- stand ; horticultural floras are just as real. AVe need to have them named and classified. Plants are not passive to the attacks of parasites ; they make every eft'ort to resist, and by a better understanding of the relationship of host and visitor we can help the plants of the farm and garden to throw off their foes. A study of weeds woxild be beneficial ; weed floras would act as a guide to the adaptability of the soil for certain crops. And an understanding of the re- lationships would be helpful, duckweed, which grows after the trees have made their growth, acts as a first-class late cover crop for an o:chard. An orchard at Brigham City, Utah, an orchard under irrigation, had Peach trees in which catch crops were grown, and the speaker could tell, almost from the appear- ance of the foliage, what catch crop had been grown there. The effects of the intermingling were very pronounced. In pot experiments at the Michigan station now under way. Peach-trees were grown in pots, and various other plants with them. Elberta was the variety of Peach. Thirty trees were selected. Fertilii-ers were added and good drainage provided. The pots were sunk to the brims in coarse cinders. The plants were set 6 feet ai)art ea<;h way, watered as necestary, and not pruned. Three pots were in eacli ■ test. Potatos, Tomatos, Oats, Kye, Rape, Mustard, crimson Clover, Peas and Beans were the catch crops planted in the pots. Leaves on the trees with Oats and Kye were the smallest and fewest in number. These trees were the earliest to mature. The effects were most noticeable with the Oats. The Potato pots and the Tomato pots suffered next in order, as named in the foregoing respects. The yellowing of the foliage was not nearly so noticeable with the Solanums as with the grains. Next in degree came Mustard, then Rape, followed by the check trees, and most vigorous of aU was the crimson Clover pots. The Peas did not make a growth. Sulphur "Washes. Sulphur washes for orchard treatment were dis- cussed by P. J. Parrott, of the New York Station. In view of the excellent results that have been re- ported from the use of tlie sulphur washes in one or two States, it was thought that there was a possibility of introducing a more systematic method of spraying which should inchidc the sulphur wash as a regxdar part of the orchard practice. , At present there is only the Bordeaux spiay so used, or rather the Bordeaux- arsenical sprays. These, however, do not repel the sucking insects such as scale and lice. Investigations show that the newer treatment has a good effect in controlling San Jose scale. Peach-leaf curl, and Peach- .scab. By giving one application of the sulphur wash • during the dormant season and siijiplementing with the two latter usual Bordeaux-arsenical sprays, the l)est results wero had in the general control of all the troubles that affect the orchard. Breeding Haei>y Fruits. •'Methods in Breeding Hardy Fruits," were discussed by Professor N. E. Hansen, of the South Dakota Station. He explained that it was found necessary to secure a more favourable condition at blooming time, and the woxk was therefore done under glass after raising the trees, &c., in tubs for a year or two b.'fore blooming. The_y are wintered in a special cellar with windows to give some light. Duiing late winter and early spring they are brought into the green- house and the crossing done theie. Dwarfing stocks are necessary, such as Paradise for the Apple. Quince for the Pt-ar, and Western-sand Cherry for the stone fruits. Much success has been had in hastening the fruiting season of cross-bred seedlings ; and Straw- berries from the cross of the wild with the tame have been brought to the fruiting size in the same year outdoors and fruited under glass in the winter. This saves much time in selecting varieties for propa- ■ gation. Apple graft hybridisation has been carried on extensively, and the fruiting of hundreds of trees is awaited. Crafted on the AN'estern-sand Cherry the ' Peach has been found to fruit as a very small tree. This stock woidd appear to promise advantages for use in private gardens and orchard houses and for dwarf plantations on dry, sandy soils. In growing a quarter of a million fruit seedlings, the many seed- ling variations appearing give evidence to support the mutation theory of De Vries. Plant breeding in its modern aspect, he says, is plant inventing, rather than the observing of an ever - changing panorama. Election of officers resulted as follows : President, L. H. Bailey : secretary -treasurer, V. A. Clark ; assistant secretary, U. P. Hedrick ; W. R. Lazenby is made chairman of the executive committee. L. Barrcm. (For "Gardeners' Debating Societies," see p. xiii.) ENQUIRY. Earlt and Late Peaches. — I stould like to know the names of the best early variety and of best late variety of Peach for cri-owing in a cold house to be trained upon a trellis 16 inches from the glass roof ? By best, I mean with reference to quality of fruits, XJroliiic bearers, and with vigor- ous constitutions, not liable to mildew. L., Isle of Wight. TRADE NOTE. Me. W.Nafpek. — Inconsequence of the retire- ment from business of Mr. Wimsett, Mr. Napper is open to an engagement. Previous to coming to Chelsea Mr. Napper was connected with the once famous nursery of Lucombe Pince & Co., of Exeter. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. Almanac: T. iVorman A. You have omitted to supply us with your address. " Cactus " Pelaegonidms : W. Sr J. B. We think your flowers are very good examples of the type, which may be useful for certain forms of decoration, although in our opinion they are not so effective as the ordinary form of the zonal Pelargonium. Carnations: Jlfonfts. TVie Ainerican Carnation and How to Grow It. by Chas. Willis Ward (New York: A. T. De la Mare Printing and Publishing Co.). You will find an exhaustive article on the subject of your other question in our issue for August ti, 1904, p. 88, where special soils and manures for Carnations are discussed. Carnations Diseased : A. S[ F. F. They are affected with Puccinia dianthi. You will find an account of it in the books you mention. Ctpeipedium and Paphiopedilum : T. B. There are differences between these two groups, and some think the differences to be so important as to necessitate the breaking up of the old genus Cypripedium into other groups of equal value. This is a matter of opinion, but among growers the prevailing tendency is to retain the old genus in its entirety, and we think for garden purposes this is the most convenient plan, as the proposed new genera can be treated as sub-genera or sections, and thus the necessity of adopting new names is avoided. The following is a key to the genera. In the first two the ovary is three- celled, with axile placentas ; sepals valvate. Selenipedium has plicate leaves, persistent perianth, subglobose seeds. Phragmipedilum has conduplicate leaves, deciduous perianth, fusiform seeds. In the following two genera the ovary is one-celled, with parietal placentas and fusiform seeds. Cypripedium has plicate leaves, persistent perianth, and valvate sepals. Paphiopedilum has condupli'ate leaves, de- ciduous perianth, and imbricate sepals. Eucharis qrandiflora (amazonica) : R. J. B. We have repeatedly illustrated very fine speci- mens of this exceedingly useful flowering plant, but it is quite impossible for us to say where the largest specimen in the country may be found, especially as Eucharis are plants which are sometimes subjected to division at the time of repotting. " Flora capensis " : O. P. Lovell Reeve & Co., Henrietta Street, Covent Garden. Gardeners' Notice to Leave: Constant Reader. The custom is to give or receive a month's notice. In order to claim this in a court of law, it would however be necessary to afford proof that you are a " menial " servant in the meaning of the Act relating to domestic servants. Gas-Lime : Ajax. Y'ou do not state how much gas-lime was applied, or when. If a heavy dressing was given the land may have to be left idle for a year. Gravel : T. J). F. You had better obtain offers from the Gravel Company, and from several contractors. Grubs: J. R. E. They are the larvae of one of the common weevil, and are as destructive in this form as in the beetle stage. You can do nothing better than trap them with pieces of Potato, Carrot, &c. A small flower-stake should be stuck in the Potatos, &c. ; this will indicate the position of the trap, and be useful for withdrawing it. Hyacinth and Tulip Bulbs: G.A.M. There appears to be nothing deficient in the quality of the bulbs, which are a very fair sample. It is likely that something has been introduced in the ashes from your gas-house which has poisoned the roots and killed them. Sulphur compounds would act injuriously in this way. Names op Fruits: R. W. R. The Pear is over ripe. Send again earlier next season. — S. P. 1, Wyken Pippin ; 2, Claygate Pearmain.— L. E. W. Wyken Pippin.— 4. B. S. 1, Beauty of Kent; 2, Red Winter Queen; 3, Cellini Pippin: 4, Winter Red Sweet; 5, Sturmer Pippin; 6, Manx's Codlin.— IT. H., Devon. Leon Leclerc de Laval. — Sale. Rather small fruits of Glout Morceau. Names of Plants : E., Duhi'icli. Hippeastrum vittatum, generally called Amaryllis vittata ; it grows well as an ordinary warm greenhouse plant, a dry rest being given the bulbs after the foliage dies oS.~E. L., O.rford. Probably the Bracken (Pteris aquilina) come up from spores under glass. The specimens are small, drawn, and very imperfect barren fronds. Send fertile fronds when available. — J. II. B., Fal- moxith. Olearia Forsteri. — Correspondent. The Red Wood, Sequoia sempervivens. Lily of the Valley ; J. V. Please write in French or German, or even in Dutch. Pines : J. C. The foliage is attacked with a fungus closely allied to if not the same as that which attacks the Scotch Fir, and called Peridermium pini. The same fungus also grows on the common Groundsel, but then assumes a totally different appearance. By inoculating the Pine with the fungus on the Groundsel the Peridermium is produced. Right or Left-handed Digging : IF. D. Some regard one way as left-handed and some the other, but we believe that the general opinicn is that the man who has his right hand at the top of the spade is right-handed in his work, although he uses his left foot for forcing the spade into the ground. Royal Horticultural Society's Examinations : W. J. D. Your letter has been forwarded to the Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society, and we have no doubt he will reply to you. SoPS-iN-WiNE : C. S. S( Co. In A Dictionary of English Plant Names, by Jas. Britten, F.L.S., Dianthus plumarius, the origin of the garden Pink, is stated to be known as Sops-in-Wine. Another author, R. C. A. Prior, attaches the name to D. caryophyllus. Violets Diseased : O. S. B. Your plants are attacked by a fungus, "Ascochyta violte." Spray the plants with potassium sulphide, 1 oz. to 3 gallons of water, every fortnight. Select another situation and fresh soil for a futuie plantation, getting anew stock from a distance. COMMCNICATIONS RECEIVED.— T. B.— J. V.— H. C — G. JI. W.— A. B.— W. 1". W — A. D.— Leonard Barron— S. N. W. & Co — Horifordsliire Man—.). Langslou— F. Harris— C.G.Giidham—C. K.-C, II. S.— J, Clayton, Willi thanks-m-. R. W.-S. U.-C. D. McK.-.\. P.- H. F.-Bcvis-F. U. B.-W. N. W. M.— C. .I.E.- DuchesnoetCie— E.H .1.— Mrs.A.-Gardciior-M, E.B. —A R.— B. Y.-Coustaul Reader Sir Mi.li;u'l l•"^ter —.1. G. W.-Iiiip. Dopi. of Agriculture lor the W. Indies — Syudieat des Fabricants de Sucre do Fniuee-i;, E. -Sue. Nat. d'Hort. de France R.P.— Walpoie oivliard Co.-J. W.-Dr. L. - J. R. G.-F. C. L.-F. M.-VV. II. Y. —J. E.— E. M.— F. ,1. Wor JtarMus aiui Weui/ier, see p. xiv.j H W W O Q I— I 2 o o Q O w I-) w H t/5 Pi O w Q Pi < o X w < FtBEDAEY 4, I90."j.} THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 65 THE No. 946.— SATURDAY, Frh. 4, 1905. CONTENTS, Apple Lane's Prince Myrobalan Plum, the... 75 Albert 76 Obituary— Apple Tower of Glamis m Kitley, John 77 Apple-trees, soils and Eansome. James Edw. 78 manures for 69 Oranges, hardy li Benevolent Institution, Pari s, international Gardeners' Royal ... 78 horticultural exhibi- Cedrus Deodara var. tion at 73 alba spiea 7G Peaches, early and late Chiysanthemums for varieties of" 76 greenhouse decora- Peas and Potatos, tion 76 planting early SO Cobliam Park, Surrey 74 Plant?, new or note- Cordylines in Abbots- worthy— bury Castle Gardens . ea Cy pr ipedium Gra- Cultivation, experi- trixiatium 76 mental 68 Rose-trees from Gor- Digging, riglit or left- don's grave 73 handed 75 Sarracenia Catesbfei ... 73 Douglas Fir. the 69 Societies- Eremurus, the species Aberdeen Chrysan- of 66 themum 78 Ferns, tree 70 Croydon Horticul- Fruit register 69 tural 78 Gardeners'AssociatloD, Gardencra' Debating :9 the British 73 Loudon DahliaUnion 78 Gooseberries, soils and Manclie&ter Orchid... 78 manures for 68 National Chrysanth. 72,78 Grape, Prince of Wales 69 Koyal Horticultural . 74 Kew notes 70 Scientific Committee Kimberley, horticul- ofR.H.S 78 ture at 67 WoodbridgcHort. ... 78 L'Entente hortieole ... 72 Ventnor in January ... 73 Lily of the Valley, re- Vines on walls 65 tarded 73 Week's work, the— London Pai-fcs, changes Flower f;arden, the.,. 70 in the 73 Fruits under glass ... 71 Mancli ester Botanical Hardy fruit garden... 70 Gardens 73 Kitchen garden, tlie . 71 Market gardeners' visit Orchid houses, the... 71 to Paris 76 Plants under glass ... 7L ILLUSTRATIONS. Cordyline indivisa in the gardens at Abbot&bury Castle, Dorsetshire 66 Cypripedium Gratrixiannm, a new species from Annam 77 Doaiglas Fir. section of a large ti-unk of the 69 Gardener's cottage at Cobham Park, the 75 Grape-vine pergola one mile in length, a 67 View of the dwelling-house and lake at Cobham Park, Surrey (Supplementary Illustration) Weeping Beech in the grounds at Cobham Park, Surrey 74 Siebras in the late Cecil Rhodes's garden at Kimberley 67 VINES ON WALLS. AMONGST other old bocks on gardening I happen to possess two, both of wliieh give considerable prominence to the culture of Vines on walls. Of course, the means for growing fruit of any kind under glass two hundred years ago would be possessed only by rich people, and if those of limited means were desirous of cultivating Grape- vines, it would become a question of utilising ■walls for the purpose or going without Grapes. Even now, as one rambles through the villages of Surrey and some other counties in the Eouth of England, wherever a gable end of a house is exposed to the south a white Sweetwater Grape-vine has been planted, probably not in quite recent years, as many of them may be considered to have been planted half a century or more ago. In most cases they bear very poor Grapes, nor anything like a fair crop, not because the Vines are too old, but because sufficient attention is not given to them. The numerous main branches have been fixed to the walls years ago, and the laterals have been i spurred back year after year, until they are now so weakly that tew or no bunches form upon them. The County Council lecturers might instruct the villagers how gradually to cut out the old gnarUd stems and replace them by young wood trained up from the base of the Vine, as only in this way can fruitful spurs be obtaincil. Vines grown out of-doors are liable to mildew; this troublesome pest invariably settles upon the bunches, and I do not know any better way to free the berries and leaves from it than sjiinging with soft soapy water in which some flowers-of- sulphur has been well mixed. The sulphur can be syringed off with clear water subse- quently. " Shanking," which is the terror of gardeners who grow Vines under glass, is unknown upon out-of-doors Vines. With proper cultivation I get bunches of Grapes weighing 21b. on the south end of my house, but they seldom ripen well. The reds are trained in the same way as that in which gardeners train them in vineries. A good treatise on fruit - culture was written by a clergyman, the Eev. John Lawrence. A.M., Rector of Yelverton, North- amptonshire, and published by Bernard Lintot, between the Temple Gates in Fleet Street,in 171 fruits are of moderate size, with delicate flesh of a slight almond flavour. The Pear is of mediumj size, regularly pear-shaped, with a moderately long stalk and a slightly depressed eye. The- skin is dull brown, assuming an orange tint at maturity. Season September, October. Bulletin, d' ArborieuHure, January. Grape Prince of Wales. This is pronounced in some catalogues to be a. sport from the variety Mrs. Pince ; but it seems doubtful, as the foliage is quite unlike that of the latter variety. It is, however, of first-class quality, and probably the best Grape of recent introduction. I planted two fruiting - canes, purchased from Messrs. James Veitoh & Sons last March, and allowed each rod to- carry a bunch of Grapes. At the time of writing the berries are of a iet black colour, solid, and of an excellent Muscat flavour. I am of opinion that as a late Muscat-flavoured Grape there is nothing to equal this variety. I wish I could allow the b inches to hang till March, but they are required for use now. It is a vigorous grower, and produces long, tapering bunches, with large, oval berries that develop a beautiful bloom. Those growers who desire a good late black Grape should not fail to plant this variety. I have tasted Diamond Jubilee at different places this season, and am not impressed with it. I cannot speak too highly of the YO THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Febbctabt 4, 1905. ■qualities of the variety Prince of Wales, and "those who plant a cane of it will, I am sure, not regret having done so. G. J. Ellis, Warren Hoiise Gardens, Stanmore. TEEE FERNS. With few exceptions the cultivated species, being Tiatives of New Zealand, require only a moderate temperature during autumn, winter and early spring, siich as that afforded by an intermediate- house in this country, say 45° as the highest by night and 55° by day when sunny, or 5° less in •dull weather. This regimen will suit Dicksonia antarctica, D. cicutaria, D. squarrosa and D. Toungi. The Cyatheas dealbata and meduUaris, as weU as the Cybotiums priuceps, Schiedii and specta- bilis, are best grown, at least throughout the ■colder months, at which periods growth is or should be in abeyance in this country, in a house having a temperatui'e by night of 50° to 55°, and ■00° by day. An important point is aerial moisture, for if this be not afforded constantly, in large amount in the season of growth, and lessened quantity at •other seasons, fine fronds will not reward the ■cultivator, and thrips and scale will greatly increase, to the detriment of the plants and the loss of their beauty. These plants, from what- ■ever country they come, are found only in moisture-laden localities, and near or beneath the shade of tall trees, so that any lengthened •exposure to direct sunlight or arid conditions of the air is sure to be injurious to them. In the summer, when there is much drying sun-heat, the stems should be damped with water through a fine rose syringe twice a day, or still more often, if, owing to the use of the con- servatory by the inmates of the mansion, it is impossible to keep the paths constantly damp. In a state of nature the stems are kept moist by ±he dead fronds that hang around them; but no gardener having an eye to tidiness would permit such a state of things to exist in a trim con- servatory ; and as a substitute for the brown and withered fronds of previous years, the stems are sometimes covered with Selaginella denticulata, S. C!esia, and others, Ficus repens (stipulata), which afford the required hindrance to the undue ■evaporation of moisture. In the spring, when renewal of growth takes place, there are often intervals of strong sunshine, and moisture may then be applied to the stems ■once a day, with a slight sprinkling of the crowns in the early morning and at closing time. Owing to the aerial or stem roots taking up large quantities of moisture, and the true roots keep- ing close at home, large pots or tubs are uncalled for, except in the case of aged specimens of great ■size, and such are best planted in a properly prepared station in a border, although such plants are less useful in decorative work, for being once planted they cannot be moved about. As a soil in which to grow any of the species, a sound turfy loam, one year in stack, mixed with one-eighth of sharp coarse sand, sandstone ■broken to the size of Horse Beans, together with a small quantity of leaf -mould, and one-fourth of the whole to consist of hard peat, should be used. Let this be prepared, if possible, a month previous ■tojusing it. Pot firmly, using a blunt rammer, not forgetting to afford ample space for the application of water. If manure be applied in the root-waterings, it should be of the mildest description, these plants being extremely •' clean-living," decaying tree- leaves and spent Mushroom-bed material, at the rate of 1 bushel of either in 40 gallons of water, being the strongest that it is desirable to use, and then only in the season of growth. The drainao'o should be sufficient but not excessive ; and, as root-distarbance causes a check to the plants, the material placed immediately over the crocks should be of an enduring nature. When Tree-Ferns reach this country they usually present the appearance of crownless and rootless boles. For convenience sake these may be put into pots or tubs just large enough to accommo- date the bulbous end, stood iu an intermediate- house, and syringed twice a day, no attempt at forcing them to vegetate being made. The bulbous end may be bound round with sphagnum or ordi- nary moss. When roots appear generally at the root end and along the stems, potting in a proper fashion may be forthwith carried out. If a sheltered spot can be found in the pleasure- grounds or flower-garden, preferably on the north side of tall trees, the Dicksonias, if portable, may be risked outside during July, August, and the early half of September, guying them securely to stout stakes driven deeply into the soil, a full- sized slate or tile being placed under each pot. Keep the soil around them moist, and attend to their requirements as if under glass. F. M. The Week^s Work. KEW NOTES. EpiDENDRUSi Endresii, Rchb. — Although named and described in the Gardeners^ Chronicle by Eeiohenbach so far back as April 7, 1883, this lovely species is still very scarce. This is no doubt accounted for by the fact that it is difBcult to import in good condition, and it is also very slow to increase under cultivation. A very healthy little specimen is now in flower in the Cattleya-house. Its time of flowering is there- fore almost the same as that of the original plant, which was found by Endres in Costa Rica in flower in December. The plant has three flower- ing stems, the tallest of which is about 8 inches, and having an aggregate of twenty-eight flowers ; the sepals and petals are white, the large lip being blotched with violet. At Kew this delicate species is grown well at the cool end of a Cattleya pit, in a compost of fibrous peat and sphagnum- moss in equal parts. (See Gardeners' Chronicle. April 18, 1885, p. 50^t. Plattclinis latifolia, UemsUy. A specimen with twenty spikes is now flower- ing in the warm Orchid-house. It is a robust- growing species with tapering pseudo-bulbs about IV inch long, and broad somewhat leathery leaves about a foot iu length. The flower- spikes are borne on slender peduncles, gracefully arched, and 2 or 3 inches longer than the leaves; the flowers are creamy - white, rather large, and arranged in two distinct rows on the rachis ; at the base of each flower is a reddish bract about half the length of the sepals. P. latifolia is very fragrant, as also are several other species. P. cucumerina and P. glumacea are also flowering, HlPPBASTEUMS. The most attractive feature of the greenhouse (No. 4) at the present time are two handsome groups of Hippeastrum crosses, arranged with Ferns. They are among a very early batch of a large stock of bulbs, from which a series of dis- plays will be produced for some considerable time. These bright and beautiful groups have now become qmte an annual feature at Kew, special attention having been given to the careful selection and judicious crossing of this popular class of plant during the past ten years, resulting in the production of a very high-class strain. The plants have large, well-formed, bold-looking flowers, with broad and almost uniform segments. The colours are very rich and varied, the deep red forms being perhaps the most pleasing, of which Sir William is typical. The lighter forms are also well represented, though they are not so extensively grown at Kew as the darker ones. JF. 11., January 26. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. n. Clarke, Gardener to Sir William Plowdew, Astou Rowant House. Oxon. Fruit-trees. — The pruning and training of pyramid and bush trees should be undertaken with great care. Young pyramid trees require to have their branches trained as nearly equi-distant as possible. Trees that are making suitable growth should have their leading branches shortened to within 12 to 18 inches. The main central shoot of a pyramid tree should be per- fectly straight. In bush trees all the continua- tion branches may be shortened as in the pyramid, allowing sufficient growth to remain on each to preserve a well-balanced tree, but the side growths on the leading branches should he shortened to three buds. Older trees that are in a fruit-bearing condition require similar treat- ment to those described above, but in a modified form, and any cross branches and misplaced shoots must be removed entirely. Trees that are growing too freely and that are unfruitful should be noted that they may be subjected to root-pruning in the autumn. The spurs may be treated in the same way as advised in a former Calendar. Much discretion is necessary when manuring fruit-trees. They should not all be given it indiscriminately, for by so doing a vigorous-growing tree that is m.anured will become still more vigorous and unfruitful. Training. — After pruning is completed the shape of pyramid trees may be considerably enhanced by training the branches at a suitable distance apart, and in the case of those varieties, such as Annie Elizabeth Apple and Le Lectier Pear, whose growth develops perpendicularly, this is essential in order to admit a free circulation of air and light. The lower branches should be pulled down to the required position by strong tar-twine and fastened to neat pegs driven se- curely into the ground or tied to an iron or wooden hoop encircling the tree. Each consecu- tive branch may be tied to the branch below until the whole tree has been trained. In the case of young trees these ties may be removed after one season, but should remain longer in older trees, which take more time to '* set " their branches. The heads of young standard trees may be treated as advised for pruning pyramids. Trees planted late last spring and left unpruned may now be cut back to a growth-bud, always selecting one growing in an outward direction. The side - growths should be shortened to a growth-bud. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By W. A. Miller, Gardener to Lord IIenky C, Bentinck, M.P.. Undorley Hall, Westmoreland. Lnhelias. — Plants of Lobelia fulgens that were lifted in the autumn and wintered in a heated frame will now be in suitable condition for dividing into small clumps for potting. The pieces should be potted into 4-inch pots, using a compost of leaf- mould, manure from an old Mush- room-bed, and loam. Encourage the plants to develop suitable growth by placing them in a pit with a temperature of about G0°. When they are well established they should be shifted into cold frames to become hardy. The variety Queen Victoria has crimson foliage ; this, with Firefly, Ibis, and Lord Ardilaun, are all excellent varieties. Lobelia cardinalis and L. syphilitica are North American species, and can be treated in a similar manner. L. Milleri is a fine rich-purple hybrid. Dwarf Evergreens. — The following shrubs are all suitable for growing under trees and in shady places: — Andromeda (Leucothoe) .axillaris and A. Catesba-i ; these are excellent subjects for plant- ing on banks or borders, never becoming too large, and always attracting attention with their slender arching stems. They are peat-loving plants, but will also thrive in sandy or gravelly soil. In open situations they often develop bronze-coloured foliage. The plants are propagated from seed, from layers, and by division, and are somewhat slow in growth until well established. Gaul- theria Shallon is seen at its best when spreading over steep banks or on rough, rocky places. Skimmia japonica will grow in shady situations, but will never develop its beautiful berries under Febeuaby i, 19C:.] TBU GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 71 such conditions. Hypericums are splendid subjects for planting imder the shade of trees, where they forma "carpet" of growth. Ivies, Periwinkles, Berberis, and Veronica Traversii are also suitable for this purpose. "Where space is unlimited Rhododendrons are unsurpassable for this kind of planting, while Aucuba, Holly, Yew, and Box may all be used. Ben^y-hearing Shrubs. — Some of the more suitable for planting are Pemettya mucronata (which is always effective), Cotoneaster horizon- talis, C. microphylla, C. Simonsii (one of the best species), C. frigida, Cratas^us Pyracantha var. Lelandi, Hippophae rhamnoides, and Leycesteria formosa. Holly hoclis are indispensable for hardy borders, and in places where the fungus is a scourge, it is best to treat them as annuals. Sow the seed now, and when the seedlings are up encourage them to make strong plants by May. Too much fire-heat will be prejudicial to robust growth. Carnations, Verbenas, and Ccntaurea candi- dissima may also be sown now. THE KITCHEN GAHDEN. By W. Fyfe, Gardener to Lady Wantacje, Lockinge Park, Wantage. Maiii Crop Peas. — Our general practice with regard to sowing this crop is to do so on the first opportunity that presents itself in the new year. The ground selected for the purpose is that in which Celery has been grown, and with this object in view the trenches for the Celery are made feet apart. When the Celery is dug the soil is allowed to remain in the form of trenches, with the result that a much larger surface is exposed to the infiuence of the weather. Previous to sowing the Peas the ground is first levelled, and then shallow trenches are made aboiit the width of a spade and at a depth of from 2 to 3 inches on the site occupied by the Celery trenches, which allows ample space for taller- growing varieties, to which we give the preference. The variety which is largely grown here for the main crop is Criterion ; this grows to a height of 6 feet. According to my experience this variety has had many rivals but no superiors during the past twenty-four years of my practice. For later crops the variety Autocrat is unsurpassed, being of robust growth and of a free-fruiting character, yielding Peas well through November or until cut down by frost. The Gladstone, also a late- cropping variety, is probably unsurpassed for the size of its pods. The varieties Alderman, Gradus, and Prizewinner are also amongst the most desirable varieties to grow. Brussels-Sproids. — For early crops seeds of this highly-esteemed vegetable should now be sown as advised for Cabbages, and the general treat- ment required is the same. A soil too loose in texture and over-rich has a tendency to pro- duce plants whose sprouts are but sparingly produced and of a large, loose character. The sprouts shoiUd be round, compact, of medium size, and closely developed upon the stem. For the main crop sow seeds on a warm border early in March. The drills should be sufficiently far apart to allow the hoe being used freely between them. Suitable varieties to grow are Sutton's Exhibition and Dwarf Gem. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By W. H. Young, Orchid Grower to Sir Frederick WitiAN, Bart, Clare Lawn. East Sheen. S.W. Cypripedium insigne and Varieties. — These plants may soon be put in order for the season, renewing first the surface compost of those that do not need to be repotted. In repotting the plants do not disturb the roots very much, and if the roots are difficult to turn out of the pots, insert an old table-knife, and work it round next the inside of the pot to loosen them. Then place the plant in a fresh pot, and fill in around with more drainage material, and a compost consisting of two parts peat and one part each of sphagnum- moss and good yellow loam-fibre, adding a little sand or small crocks. This grand cool-growing Orchid needs a genial atmosphere, and a tempe- rature ranging between 53" and CO" at this season, and a sufficient supply of water to just keep the rooting medium moist. With the above species may be grown such as C. Arthurianum, C. Niobe, C. nitens, C. villosum, C. Boxallii, C. pur- puratum, Sec, which in most respects may be treated as advised for C. insigne. Cy2yri2yedium Spicerianum. — This species resents disturbance at the roots, and so long as the plant thrives with an annual renewal of the surface potting materials, it shoiild not be disturbed. If it is found desirable to repot the plant, carefully divide it into convenient pieces, without causing more than necessary damage to the brittle roots. Place the plant in the new pot, and insert pieces of crocks amongst the roots, filling the pot in this manner to within 3 inches of the rim. Place moss over the crocks, and fill the pot almost to the rim with a compost consisting of two parts peat, and one each of fibrous loam and moss, adding a sprinkling of sand as the work proceeds. Make the whole firm, but not hard, and have the centre of the plant somewhat above the level of the receptacle. Give the plant a gentle watering immediately afterwards, using a rosed can for the purpose, and allow the roots to approach dryness before watering again. Afford shade in moderation, sufficient moisture in the atmo- sphere of the house and at the roots, and keep the hoxise at a temperature of from 55" to 65°. Avoid growing the plants in a close atmosphere, at the same time avoid draughty ventilation. During the summer months deluge them with rainwater overhead. C. Spicerianum has pro- bably been used for hybridising purposes more than any other species, and generally with good results, 'notably in the ease of C. x Leeanum, one of the finest winter-flowering Cypripediums. This hybrid should be treated in the same way., and disturbance and division of the plants will be attended with little danger if carefully carried out. Other hybrids should be treated in a manner similar to that appropriate to the species whose characters are most predominant in the hybrid. For instance, C. ■ Buchanianum, in which C. Druryi occurs, should be grown in the warmest house, and be carefiilly watered during the winter months. In all hybrids bear in mind the peculiarities of the parent species, and treat the plants accordingly. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By A. Bullock. Gardener to E. J. Wythes, Esq., Copped Hall, Epping, Essex. The season is approaching when the potting and topdressing of plants must be given attention. It will greatly facilitate matters if suitable material for this work is now prepared. If the loam can be cut from a well-built stack of soil little trouble will be found necessary in order to bring it to a suitable condition for use, but if the soil is in a wet and cold condition, considerable time must elapse before it can be properly prepared. When the soil is in this unworkable condition it is advisable to spread the turves thinly in a place where they can be protected from the weather and allowed to gradually ameliorate, in preference to the usual practice of placing them in baskets or in similar receptacles in the stoke-hole or on very hot water-pipes. Flower-pots of various sizes should be examined and cleansed, particularly the inside of the pots, before being stored ready for use. These matters, small in themselves, are of vital importance to success, apart from the pleasure that is gained from seeing the work proceed smoothly and without hindrance. Richardia [Calla'] Elliottiana. — Little difficulty is now experienced in flowering this beautiful golden- coloured Arum, thoroughly ripening and afterwards resting the plants for a suitable period being the principal requirements for success. For producing an early batch of these flowers some of the strongest rhizomes should be potted and placed in a warm - house. A suitable compost for these plants should consist of two-thirds loam, on ot peat, and a liberal addition of silver-sand. The rhizomes should bo potted deeply. When potting the plants use sufficient of the compost to cover the drainage, and then place a layer of silver-sand ; plant the rhizomes on the sand, and then fill the pots to within an inch of the rims with the soil, which should be sxifliciently moist to enable the grower to dispense with watering until root-action has started satisfactorily. Chrysanthemum Plants that were propagated from cuttings taken in November should be removed to a shelf or staging near to the glass, and allowed to remain there for some days previoras to being potted. Care must be taken to avoid draughts, which will otherwise check the plants. Where two or more cuttings are growing in a pot, these should be separated without loss of time,, and potted singly in thumb- pots, as no advantage will be gained by giving them a larger shift at this season. Cuttings rooted singly in a pot may require a slight shift, but unless the pots are welA filled with roots this operation is better deferred for a few days. The plants should be stood in a, closed frame with a little fire- heat, and placed near to the glass. They should be syringed fre- quently, and under these conditions will make- roots readily. A suitable covering of mats will be- better than excessive artificial heating for pro- tecting the plants from frost at night-time. Stock plants that are retained for supplying: further cuttings should be examined, and thoE& that show no signs of developing growth shouldi be plimged to the rims of the pots without delay in a brisk bottom-heat of leaves, while the plants should be syringed occasionally to induce growth. PEUITS UNDEE GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Dr. Corbet, Inipuey Hall Gardens, Droitwich. Early Permanent Vines. — Severe weather, withi cold easterly winds, following mild weather, has made it necessary to bestow extra care and attention in the ventilation of early vineries ;. some air should, however, be admitted early in the day when the weather is favourable,, in order to encourage strong, healthy growth^, and to carry off excessive moisture. From the time the bunches are visible advantage shoiald be taken to close the houses early on. bright days, and thiis encourage the Vines to- grow freely ; at the same time the temperature- may be allowed to fall to 58° in the morning.. Kemove from free-setting varieties, such as Black Hambiirgh, Foster's Seedling, and Madresfield Court, all weak shoots and any small bunches- that are not required. This should be done before the Vines are in flower. It is not advis- able to tie the shoots down too soon at this early period of growth, except those wliose points, press against the glass, and these should h& brought down by degrees. Stop the shoots two or three leaves beyond the bunches according to> the amount of space available, giving suffi- cient room for the principal leaves to have full exposure to light and air. The night tempera- ture should be gradually increased to Go" by the time the Vines arrive at the flowering stage, increasing the day temperature correspondingly, but always allowing a fall of 5° in very cold weather. Pollinate the open flowers at mid- day, and at the same time keep the atmosphere- of the house somewhat drier. Another watering: may be given at this stage to those Vines whiL'h are confined in well-drained inside borders;, this will generally be siifficient until the Grapes are set. Early Muscats. — These require a temperature of about 5'^ higher than other varieties, especially at the period when the Vines are in flower. Remove all bunches except the most compact ones- on each shoot, which will allow more than enough- for a full crop. Keep the points of the bimches- when in flower well to the light, and if possible- pollinate them with Black Hamburgh pollen. All Muscat houses should now be closed, as Muscat- Grapes require a longer season in order to finish, than most other varieties. Mid-season Houses which contain several varie- ties of Grapes should now be started, in order to supply ripe fruit during July and August. See- that the inside border is sufficiently watered, and if necessary use tepid water for the purpose- Syringe the Vines two or three times daily, according to the conditions of the weather,, always allowing the canes to become dry before- night-time. A night temperature of 50*, rising to 05" with sun-heat, will be found suitable. Young Fines. — Should home-grown ^'ines be required for planting in May, " eyes " should now be put in. Select buds from wood that is firm and well ripened. Remove some of the wood below the buds, and insert them in small pots filled with loam and sharp sand, and then plunge the pots in a bottom-heat of 75" to SO-". 72 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [FEBEnART 4, 190." APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. SATURDAY, Feb. 4 Soci^t6 Fran^aise d'Horticul- liire de Loudi'es Meet. %virn\:TrGni"v iri:.T. ..( British Gardeners' Association, MtuwJibU-iK.iED. ,.| Meeting at Croydon. FRID.VY, ! Royal Gardeners' Orplian Fund, Annual Meeting and Election of Candidates. SALES FOR THE WEEK. MONDAY AND FRID.IY NEXT- Hardy Border Plants and Perennials, Roses, Aza- leas, Greenhouse Plants, Fruit Trees, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C , by Protheroe & Morris, at 13. WEDNESDAY NEXT- Azalcas, Rhododendrons, Palras. Border Plants, Roses, Fruit Trees. &c. ; l,4fi4 cases of Japanese Liliums, itc, at 67 & 6S. Cheapside, E.C, by Pro- theroe & Morris, at 12.— Lilies from .Tapan, also Palms. Roses, Shrubs, «tc.,at Stcvens'Rooms, atl2 30. FRIDAY NEXT— 2,000 Odonto^lossura crispum, consignment of Cat- tleya Warneri, A-c, and an importation of Cattleya Triana?, by Protheroe & Morris, at 67 & 68, Cheap- side, E.C. .re told, is seeking some other locality wherein to hold its summer show. The usual financial statements are published. We must defer further comment till another issue. Rose Show at the Crystal Palace.— The Crystal Palace Rose Show has been definitely fixed for Saturday, July 8. Schedules can be obtained from Mr. G. Caselton, Superintendant Gardener, Crystal Palace, S.E. Hardy Oranges. — In his annual report Secretary Wilson, of the Department of Agri- culture (United States), states, regarding the production of new Citrus fruits ; " The efforts that have been made by the Bureau of Plant Industry for a number of years in the matter of producing by budding new Citrus fruits, so as to build up varied industries in the South, have met with very gratifying results. The hardy Oranges, which have been secured as a result of the crossing of the sweet Orange with the hardy Japanese Oranges, are now ready to distribute, and the work of distribution will be inaugurated in the coming winter. There has been fruited ihis year for the first time a sweet Orange of the hardy type. This is an accomplishment which the Department hoped for when it first inaugu- rated the work. The other new Citrus fruit de- veloped from the Bureau's investigations, such as the new Tangelo, which is a cross between the Tangerine and the Pomelo, a new velvet-skin Orange, and several other creations, will all prove exceedingly valuable in sections where the cli- matic conditions will permit the growing of these more tender sorts." COBHAM PAKK. {See figs. 33, 34, and Supplementary Illustration.) Ip the visitor to Cobham, in -urrey, proceeds from the village along the road leading to Effingham, he will pass by the'pretty old church, cross the bridge which spans the river, and in about five minutes come upon the estate of C. Combe, Esq. The estate, and | even the gardens, will be found on either side of the road — on the left hand the dwelling-house, pleasure gardens, shrubbery, lake, &a. ; and on the right hand the kitchen and fruit gardens, including the glass- houses. The view of the house shown in the Supplementary Illustration is one taken from the north front, at some distance away, and having the lake for the foreground. The house is a stone building, and was erected in the year 1872; it stands. on a somewhat steep incline, the ground falling from the south to the north. The lake is 3 J acres in extent, and, together with running streams, gives to the estate the appearance of being abundantly watered. The river affords facilities for boating, and the lake for fishing. On January 28, at the time of our visit, the lake being frozen over, a good area for skating was afforded. There are plenty of timber trees in the grounds, and numerous Conifers have been planted during t'le past thirty years to impart a furnished appearance to the view in winter. The most prominent subjects, however, are several old Cedars that were probably as high twenty years area, provides dense shade from sunshine, and' is a popular feature of the" groands,! r A more remarkable tree is a decrepid specimen of the- common Lime about CO feet high. The trunk is- quite hollow for several feet upwards from the base, and at a point 4 feet or so high decay has- eaten across the sides] towards the back of the- trimk, almost as a saw might have cut it,. Though the sides still exist therefore, the? Fig. 33.— weeping beech in the gkounds at cobham paek, surrey. ago as they are to-day. One of these, on the south front of the house, towers well up above the building, and may be seen in the iUiistration. It is a noble fellow, albeit the leading shoot was lost years ago, and the form of the tree thereby decreased in symmetry. Of the younger Conifers one of the most attractive is a specimen of Cedrus atlantica glauca rather more than 20 feet high, of perfect shape, and making rapid growth each season. On the north-east side of the house one of the paths passes under the Weeping Beech shown in fig. 33. This tree spreads over a considerable principal support for the tree is at the back, anii when in leaf, under the influence of wind the- trunk from above the point where decay has^ destroyed the sides nny be seen to sway a little- from side to side, but is yet firmly held erect by the good tissues still remaining at the back of the trunk. There are several borders of herbaceous^ perennial plants around the shrubberies, and. stretches of beautiful green lawn between the trees afford charming walks from the dwelling- house. Paths also extend into the wood or shrubbery over an area of nearly 10 acres, and in Pebruaby 4, 1905.] TEE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. T5 Qummer are very appreciable. On the south front the pleasure - ground has been extended Tecently, and the effect from this aspect might be further improved in the same direction sind by the provision of a flower-garden with informal beds. Kitchen and Fkuit-garden. On the other side of the road is the kitchen- ■.garden, of about four acres extent, surrounded by walls which are put to excellent use in the culti- vation of fruit-trees. Pears, Apricots, Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, &c., trained against these •>waU8 crop freely, and in seasons like that of 190i need to be thinned severely. Pigs ripen well on the outside walls, but are mot nearly so successful as they are at a residence at Bonchurcb, Isle of Wight, belonging to Mr. Combe's son, where a magnificent wall-tree of the variety Negro Largo is the best in the neighbour- 2 inches high in frames, and are already through the soil in the open garden, as also are Broad Beans. Spring Cabbages appear very promising, and Cauliflower plants under hand-lights are in a forward condition for transplanting when the season is a little further advanced. There are numerous Peach-trees under glass, two houses with hijj-shaped roofs having a length of nearly 200 feet. One house of 120 feet length is provided with means of heating, and the other is not. All the best varieties of Peaches and Nectarines are cultivated in these houses, and the trees are excellent specimens of good training; the crops observed upon them from time to time have been abundant. Not- withstanding this, very heavy crops of Tomatos are obtained from the same houses from plants put into the borders and trained as hori- zontal cordons. The earliest Peaches are in another lean-to house, which, being in two divi- FlG. 34.— GARDENEU'S COTTAGE COVERED WITH WISTARIA AT COBHAM PARK. Giood, although standard Fig-trees in the open are common there. The kitchen garden plots at Cobham are for the most part surrounded by •espalier fruit-trees, and though some of these are ■aged, such specimens are being gradually removed -and young trees of the best varieties planted in ■■their stead. There is an orchard on rather ■iiigher ground than that of the garden, so that altogether the garden and orchard supply ample •crops of hardy fruits. Kitchen-garden produce, being of great importance, is given close study, sand such crops of Onions, Asparagus, various Brassicas, ic, as were obtained last season were ithe result of an intelligent use of manures, in wlhich animal and chemical manures were employed. Early forcing of vegetables is carried •out here as thoroughly as in most places, for at Christmas there were supplies of new Potatos, French Beans, Seakale, Asparagus, Rhubarb, Mushrooms, &c. The Asparagus is forced in frames from plants raised in the same garden from seeds. Seakale is forced in the permanent beds. Peas (Sutton's Harbinger) are now sions, affords space for Fig-trees also. These Peach trees are now setting their flowers. There are four vineries, and the vines show the same skilful treatment that is applied to other depart- ments of the gardens. At the present time there is a moderate supply of well-preserved Grapes in bottles, and the earliest canes are breaking nicely into growth. Melons and Cucumbers are cultivated in sunk pits having span-shaped roofs ; young Melon-plants are now making growth, and large supplies of Melons, Cucumbers, and Tomatos are produced each season. There are several plant-houses, the principal one being a structure of considerable size, having a span-roof. It is divided into two divisions, one of which contains a first-class collection of Codiaeums (Crotons), Oordylines (Dracajnas), and like foliage plants, whilst the other is furnished with Palms and other species that require a less degree of heat. Codiamms are grown with better success than is obtained in many gardens ; the plants retain their foliage well, and develop extra good colour. They are propagated by '* ringing," not by cuttings. At the present time there are good displays of Cyclamens, Primulas, and other winter flowers Herbaceous Calceolarias, Souvenir de la Mal- maison Carnations, Chrysanthemums, Poin- settias. Pelargoniums, Coleus thyrsoideus. Gloxinias, Begonias, &c., are grown in numbers proportionate with the means at hand. The concluding paragraph in this note may well be one respecting the gardener's cottage, depicted in fig. 34. The photograph was ob- tained last spring, when the magnificent Wistaria sinensis was irresistible with its prodigal display of flowers and liberal perfume. What a delightful cottage the picture pourtrays ! Its occupier is Mr. William Honess, who has been gardener at Cobham for the past four and a half years, having succeeded his father in the position. Mr. Honess's experience in good gardens at Keele, Hatfield, Welbeck, ie., is now of the greatest service to him. In August last his friends had the pleasure of congratulating him upon his selec- tion of a fair young lady from the locality to share with him " Wistaria Cottage." HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (The Editor docs not hold himself responsible for IIq opinions expressed by his Correspondents.) RIGHT OR LEFT-HANDED DIGGING.— I have always looked upon the man as a ri>^ht-handed digger who held the top of tlie spade with the left hand whilst the right hand moved along the helve of the spade, and the right foot drove the spade into the ground ; the leverage is obtained by the left hand at the top of the spade, but the spadeful is lifted and turned over by a sympa- thetic motion between both hands. The reverse of these positions of both hands and feet are, in my way of looking at it, left-handed diggers. But the spade makes no complaint so long as it is cleverly and masterly handled either way. "An Old Digger." MYROBALAN PLUM.—" E. M.," on p. 4.5, says he '• cannot agree with Mr. Ward that this Plum is superior to Quickthorn for hedging purposes, and that his esperience leads him to say th,at it is not nearly so good for hedges as a well-man- aged Quick;'" adding, "though to see a well- cultivated hedge of the latter is indeed a rarity/' Be this as it may, I have in my mind's eye miles of Quick hedges, some alongside the King's highway from Portarlington to Mount Mellick, at a point where it passes through the '' Wilmott- Chetwoode " estate. These hedges are 4 feet through, ij feet in height, and are rounded at the top, and as the result of close annual trimming from the first year of planting are a veritable network of short, close growth from the base to the summit. Other examples of Quick hedges of a different type may be seen in the Inverleith Row Nurseries, Edinburgh. Tiiese are (or were some years ago) from 18 inches to 2 feet through at the base, narrowing upwards on both sides to a point some G feet from the ground. These hedges were planted a3 wind-screens iu various parts of the nurseries as protection for seedling trees, &c., and were pictures of good cultivation ; but it must be borne in mind that they required years of growth before they attained this solid, uniform mass of thorny growth and handsome outline. I could also name estates in Wiltshire in which it is no rarity to see well-cultivated Quick hedges. However I may remind " E. M." that 1 recom- mended the Myrobalan Plum as being superior to the Quick "as regards quickness of growth, and impenetrablenesB of fence" for hedgiog purposes. " E. M." says that it is a waste of time to wait twelve months before cutting down the Myro- balan Plum after planting, and is of the opinion that the plants should be cut down to \\iLhin 15 inches of the ground as soon as planted. This is not my opinion, as I prefer any kind of plants intended for permanent hedges to push their roots well into the ground, and make free top-growth the first year, cutting them down the following spring. " E.M." admits that the "Myro- balan Plum will grow nmch more r.ipidly thau 7tj THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [FEEEnABT 4, IStS. Quick," adding " that he had never seen a thick base to any hedfje made with this plant." T his no doubt was owing to the fact that the plants were not pruned to within a foot or 15 inches of the ground the first year after planting, as recommended by me on p. 29. Or it may have Tbetn caused by the plants having been cut down as soon as planted, in order not to waste time. H. W. Ward. THE EVESHAM GARDENERS' FRENCH TRIP : WILL IT BEAR FRUIT ?— Some of the older of the Evesham gardeners have expressed themselves as very doubtful of the result of trying to force Lettuce after the French method in Evesham, and point out that as many as twenty years ago they tried to force Lettuce under the bell-glasses is done near Paris. But they forget that they did not try the right variety, and it is pretty certain that they did not prepare the seed-bed as the Frenchman does. Everything depends upon that work being properly performed. Then it is claimed that the atmosphere in the valley of the Avon is too humid, and that the plants will damp off. The remedy for that is care and attention in the ventilation of the frames and cloches. The diiEculty of obtaining manure is probably more imaginary than real ; it can be bought in Bir- mingham at a reasonable figure, and the railway companies are certain to grant special rates, for they already carry manure from London 108 miles into a fruit-growing district for 4s. 6d. a ton. They would be sure to do the same for Evesham if properly approached, and that would bring the cost of the manure up to about Gs. a ton. Would the Lettucetellif grown? is also asked; andthe answer to that is, that the Frenchman with expenses heavier than those of the Evesham grower can send to Covent Garden and pay a freight of 80s. as against the Evesham man's 25s., and still make a handsome profit. The experiment is to be made. In a week or so the retired gardener who con- ducted the Evesham men through the Vitry and Ivry gardens will be in Evesham for the purpose of giving demonstrations of how the Frenchman sets to work. It is hoped that he will be accom- panied by another gardener, who is likely to remain in the district for at least two yeais, for a very large firm of growers are negotiating with a man to take an engagement for that period. We shall see what we shall see. Within the last few weeks a large number of glasshouses have betn built close to Evesham, and from this it is evident that some of the younger generation of gardeners realise the importance of branching out in a fresh direction. It has always been a source of surprise that in this fertile valley so little use was made of glass, but this is now fast disappearing. Perhaps in no branch of their work do the Evesham men need instruction so much as in the packing and grading of their frnit and vegetables. Of recent years there has been a steady improvement in this direction, and less is heard of the pernicious and injurious habit of ** topping," for which the district held an unenviable notoriety, but there is still need for great im- provement. A case bearing on the necessity of grading fruit occupied Judge Ingham and a jury for some hours on Saturday last. A gardener and dealer, of Hampton, near Evesham, sued a firm of brokers of Covent Garden for jE39 2s. lOd. for breach of contract in the pur- chase of 300 "pots " of Blenheim Apples at 5s. a pot, the damages representing the difference between the contract price and what plaintiff realised when defendants refused to accept delivery. The contract was not disputed, and in it defendants contracted to buy 300 pots of best Blenheims at 5s. a pot, all the small to be sorted out. Two consignments of Apples were sent, and both were refused on the ground that there were a large proportion of seconds included. The difficulty with regard to the first consignment was adjusted, but when the second lot arrived the defendants refused to accept any more, so plaintiff had to sell the Apples as best he could. It was suggested on behalf of plaintiff that defendants found that they had bought the Apples very dear, and wanted to get out of the deal. A sample of the second con- signment was produced by defendants, and a lot of expert evidence called, the consensus of opinion on that side being that the sample contained a large proportion of seconds, and that the test were not very special. For the plaintiff evidence was called to the effect that the fruit was sorted, and that only best Blenheims were sent. After a very long hearing the Judge summed up in the following words; "The only question I shall ask the jury is; 'Were the Apples which were re- jected best Apples from which all the small had been sorted out? You have heard the expert evidence and you have seen the Apples. It is for you to decide the question.' " The jury after some consultation answered the question in the negative, but intimated that they would like to make a remark. This, however, they were not allowed to do. Judgment was accordingly entered for defendants with costs. The defendants had entered a counter-claim, but withdrew it with the exception of one item, 8s. 6d. for three empties, which was admitted, and for which judgment for them was entered. S. EARLY AND LATE PEACHES. — In reply to "L.," Isle of Wight, on page 61, in my opinion the best early varieties of Peaches are Alexander, Waterloo, Amsden June, and Hale's Early. These four varieties ripen in very close succession — so close indeed, that the second and third mentioned could well be dispensed with in gardens where space is limited. The best late varieties of Peaches are Crimson Galande, Princess of Wales, and Sea Eagle. If "L. " has room only, for say six Peach trees, I should recommend the following varieties; — Alexander, Hale's Early, Early Grosse Mignonne, Violette Hative, Crimson Galande, and Sea Eagle, which are all excellent varieties in every respect, being good growers and free bearers of fine, handsome fruits which colour well and are of excellent flavour when well ripened. If space would permit of three more trees being planted in the cool-house referred to. Early Rivers, Lord Napier, and Pine-apple Nectarines would yield a fairly good succession of large, handsome friiits of good quality. H. W. Ward. CHRYSANTHEMUMS TltD DOWN. — The illus- tration of " tied down " Chrysanthemums on p. 53 is perhaps, from a pictural point of view, rather taking, but I imagine few gardeners will attempt to copy Mr. W. C. Smith in his delicate and (to me) very painful task of destroying the natural beauty of habit that each variety pos- sesses, besides rendering the flowers useless for cut purposes. It would be much better to select dwarf-growing kinds, of which there is an abund- ance of varieties, for the purpose. It cuttings be taken from the top growths at the end of May, and the plants grown on in 5 or 0-inch pots, they will make admirable subjects for placing on the front row of the stage, attaining a height of about 15 inches. Assuming that the Chrysanthemums are grown as bush plants, they should not be of the height mentioned, 5 to 7 feet being far too tall. Your correspondent does not state that his plants are grown as bush plants, but I infer this from the number of plants grown in each pot, and from the photograph of the distorted plants on the front stage. A. Jefferies, Moor Hall Oardens, Essex. CEDRUS DEODARA ALBA SPICA (see p. 59).— Our trees of the above variety of Cedar are all of pyramidal shape, and each has a good leading shoot. I recently saw about fifty trees growing in a nursery, but did not notice one of spreading habit. Are Mr. Harris's trees much exposed to strong winds ? C. Page, Dropmore Gardens, APPLE LANE'S PRINCE ALBERT. — Here in Co. Kilkenny this Apple is very satisfactory ; in fact, were I limited to one variety I should grow Lane's Prince Albert. With regard to its cropping capabilities, my experience is that young trees (on both the Crab and Paradise stocks) generally crop so heavily that if not severely thinned the fruits would eventually weaken the trees. Young trees never fail to carry a crop. The fruits develop an excellent colour for the variety, in proof of which I may say that at Dublin fruit show, held in October under the auspices of the Department of Agriculture, we were placed 1st in a class in which there were fifty-three competitors, and were 1st also at Belfast in November. The fruits do not keep well so late as March, but at present they are good and firm, and are very good eating even uncooked. The variety has been largely planted in this district during the last two years,, under the direction of the Department of Agri- culture, and I do not know any variety likely to- give better returns. Bismarck is another variety that is proving satisfactory in these gardens, making healthy growth and cropping exceedingly- well. I may say the soil here is of a warm, light nature. J. G. JF., Uesslorough. [Our corre- spondent sent excellent specimens of both varieties. Ed.] I have found this Apple to be by far the- most certain cropper, surpassing in this respect both Newton Wonder and Alfriston. The latter variety does not finish well here, and consequently shrivels with keeping. I find Newton Wonder- keeps for the longest period, while Lane's Prince- Albert keeps well to the end of February. I should certainly adyise growers in this district tc* plant the variety, as it is a sure cropper, ffeo. Ellis, Nidd Hall Garderts, Ripley, Torks. Mr. Thomas Salsbury in a recent issue- asked for growers' opinions of that excellent Apple Lane's Prince Albert. We have no hesita- tion in saying that in our opinion it has no equal, its croppin g capabilities are not comparable with those of any other culinary Apple, and with regard to its colour and appearance we saw several tons- of this Apple almost as highly coloured as that grand dessert variety Worcester Pearmain. Bramley's Seedling runs it very close in cropping: capabilities, but in weight we find Lane's Prince- Albert far ahead. A small fruit of the latter- variety will turn the scale at J lb., and wiU keep- in condition till the end of March, being now in as good condition as when picked. No doubt your correspondent picked his fruits before they were ready for gathering. Mr. Nye, Manager,, jyalpole Orchard Co., Walpole, Wisbech. PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED. -.Hjiiannct for 1905, froiiv Messrs. Keut A Brjdou, Darhiigton.— A Pocket-book.. from Messrs. Bakers, nurseryiueu, Wolverliampton and Codsall. -Nova Scotia : Proviticiul Uovcriiment Crtij^- Jieport, November, 1904. Tlie whole season proved un- favourable to growth in many parts of the Province, hut the failure is not serious enough to discourage the hopes of the farmers for the future. — Cassetl's Popular Gardt'nvig.— The Faraway House .Tournal, .January. This ■ is the Journal of tlie Students of Iho Electrical, Stan- dardizing. Testing, and Training Institution in Charing Cross Rodd.— The Ha)iana in llawaii. By J. E. Higgins- From the Hawaii Agricultural Experiment Station. - Bulletin No. 7.— The Koual Gardeji Diarii and Dailir Kcmcmbrancer for 1905. From Messrs. W. Wood & Son, Wood Green, Loudon.— Jjidex Semiiium in liortis musa Parisiensis, anno 1904 Colleclornin (Seed-list from Ihe Natural History Museum, Jardin des Plantes, Rue Cuvicr, Paris).— From the University of Illinois Agri- cultural Experiment Station. Circular No. 82 : TItc J'/ii/ficai Improvement oj Soils (with special reference to the value ot oiganic matter, by J. G. Mosier , and Bul- letin No. 95 ; The More Pmportant Insect Injuries to Indian- Corn, by S. A. Forbes. NEW OR NOTEWORTHY PLANTS. CYPEIPEDIUM GRATRIXI ANUM; (Sect. PAPHIOPEDILUM), Hoet. SANDER, Undek this name Messrs. Sander & Son, ot St. Albans, exhibited as anew species theplanthere- illustrated (fig. 35). The flowers have so much of the appearance of those of some forms of C. insigne or of C. exul, if that be considered as distinct, that its position as a separate species is a matter of opinion, but the habit is different, and we are- told that the leaves are broader than in any form, of C. exul. The plant is tufted, the leaves 20 cent, long, 4 cent, wide, coriaceous, glabrous, linear- oblong, channelled in the middle of the upper- surfac?, midrib prominent beneath, tapering to the base, where they are sharply folded and purple- spotted. Apex rounded, minutely notched. Tlie- flowers measure 11 — 12 cent, across at their widest expansion, and are borne on a scape- which is covered near the top with fine purplish hairs. Bract oblong lanceolate, purple-dotted, conduplicate, rather shorter than the three-sided,, three-ridged ovary. Standard broadly obovate undulate, puberulous on the outer surface, con- tracted birt not recurved at the base ; greenish at the base and for two-thirds of its length ; upper portion and margins porcelain - white,, the whole studded with rather large, nearly February i, 1905.] THi; GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 77 circular purple spot?. Lower sepal about half the size of the upper one, shorter than or very slightly exceeding the length of the lip, oblong, greenish with a few purplish dots; lateral petals spread- shining projecting boss near the apex. The most striking differences between this plant and C. exul are to be found in the habit, foliage, and in the standard, which tapers to the base, and ©bituarp. John Kitley.— We regret to have tc announce the death of Mr. John Kitley, for the Cj/^^f^pcHRgr' Fig. 35. — CYPRIPEDIUM (§ P.VPIIIOPEDILU.M) GRlTKtXlANU.M (HORT. SANDER). Flowers greenish-yellow, dorsal sepal porcelain-white above, purple-spotted ing, slightly incurved, oblong - spatulate, wavy at the margins, pale greenish - brown, and shining ; lip of a similar but deeper colour, with a shell-like convolute prolongation on either side ; column slightly hairy at the base ; staminode roundish, flattened, yellowish, villosulous, with a in the side-lobes of the lip, which are more prolonged. The plant is a native of Annam. The drawing was made in the nursery of Messrs. Sander, and the description was drawn up from a specimen kindly furnished by those gentlemen. M T. M. past few years manager to the Orchard Company, Ltd., Scotby, Cirlisle. Mr. Kitley w.-n well known as a praoticil horticulturist, and wj? will versed in Agriculture and Forestry. For raiaf years ho managed the extensive estates of EjtUl,"- murchus, Inverness-shire, removing from there t« ,Y8 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [FEBflUAEI i, 190:. Warwick, from tlience to Derby, and finally ending bis useful career at Scotby, where Lis integrity won for him the esteem of all those who came in contact with him. He leaves a widow, four daughters and two sons to mourn his loss. James Edward Ransome. — On January 30, in London, after a short illness, James Edward Kansome, of Holme Wood, Ipswich, aged 65 years. SOCIETIES^ Fim/fi's on Peack-trcc. — Mr. HooPEH brouglit a fungus found growing on a Peach-tree. Mr. Massee took the specimen to report upon at the next meeting. Spirits of Tar for Wounds on Trees.— '^Iv, Hooper asked -whether this might be used, and both Mr. GonDON and Mr. 8hea spoke of excellent results arising from its use. CycUihicn-leavcs discoloured.— Dr. Cooke reported on Cyclamen-leaves received froni Stevenage that the rusty spots showed no sign of fungus. It was suggested that the injury was probably caused by a mite simihtr to, if not identical with, the Begonia-mite. THE BOYAIi HORTICULTURAIi. Scientific Comiuittee. JANUARY 24.— Present: Dr. M. T. Masters. F.R.S. (in the chair) ; Drs. Cooke and llendle ; Messr.s. Michael, Massee, Saunders, Bowles, Shea, Gordon, Odell, Hooper, Holmes, Chittenden {Hon. Sec). Hcnslow Testimonial. —Dr. Masters reported on this, and announced that the presentation woidd be made at a meeting of the Scientific Committee in March. Biff Bud in Hazel. — Mr. Saunders reported upon this as follows :^"The Hazel buds are certainly attacked by mites, which very much resemble the Black Currant mite Ijoth in appearance and in their manner of life, but according to the great authority on these creatures (Dr. A. Nalepa) they are different species. If he is correct, the mites from the Nut bush would probably not attack the Currant bushes. The species attacking the Hazel is Eriophyes Avellanae. the otlier is E. ribis. The study of this genus of mites is Ycry dirticult, as the mites are quiteinvisible to the naked eye; consequently the mounting of specimens for examin- ation under the microscoi>e is by no means an easy task. These mites attack plantain a great variety of way.s, some attacking the buds, others the leaves, forming blisters on them, as in the case of the 'Pear-leaf blister mite,' or curling the edges of the leaves, like the species which attacks the Hawthorn, or forming the galls like little coral beads on the upper side of the leaves of the Maple, or the curious ' nail galls' on the leaves of the Lime. If the Nut-bushes are badly attacked, I should certainly root them up and burn tiiem ; otherwise cut out the infested shoots and burn them, keeping a good look-out for further infestation, which should be at once treated in the same manner." Mr. Michael remarked that it was extremely unlikely that the same species of mite would attack plants so widely different as the Hazel and the Currant, although species are known that attack mure than one plant. Mr. Gordon stated that he had seen Hazel growing near lilack Currants attacked by the bud-mite, while that in other parts of tlie same garden was free ; but this might have been because the conditions were favourable for both kinds of mite. Spots on Pht/Uocactws. — Dr. Cooke reported as follows on this: — "The dark convex spots near the edge were hard and somewhat resembled *'sclerotia," but no mycelium or spawn could he found, nor auy- tliing whicii could he construed into a fungoid structure. "What the dark bodies are must still remain as a 'puzzle for the curious.' " Branch of Ash Fasciated. — Mr. Odeij. showed a specimen of this common growth, cut from the tree 10 feet above the ground. SJime-fungus on Walnut. — Mr. Davidson sent a Walnut having the fimgus Phycomyces nitens growing upon it. Mite on Bark of Apple. — Ifr. Griggs sent a piece of Apple-bark infested witli the mite Orohutta lapidaria. The mite is frequent upon the hark of Apple-trees, hut causes no injury to them. Disease of Bccch-trccs. — Dr. Cooke reported upon the specimens sent to the last meeting, on which the common fungus, Tubercularia vulgaris, was growing. The stumps grooving near by had another fungus, Xylaria hypoxylon, upon them. Pear, Diseascd.— The decay in the Pear brought to the last meeting by Mr. Shea, which appeared as brown spots in the Hesh, nothing being visible on the outside. Dr. Cooke attributed to the fungus which caused the "brown rot" of fruit, and to which the black Apple recently exhibited also probably owed its peculiar appearance. ft'all on Eucalyptus occidcnialis. — Mr. Hoi-MES showed specimens of this on bark, known commercially as Mallet-bark. A large quantity is being imported : from Australia for tanning purposes. Mr. Sauni>EKH took the specimen to examine further. Spraying Apparatus. — Mr. Holsies also showed a simjile form of spraying apparatus which is shortly to be put upon the market. GAUDENERS' HOYAL BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. WORCESTER AUXILIARY. January l(i. — This branch held their annual meeting at Worcester on the above date. Owing to the unavoidable absence of Sir Frederick Godson, M.P., Mr. W. Crump was voted to the chair. A most satisfactory balance sheet on the year's working was presented and adopted, the accounts showing a balance of over £100 to the good. Upwards of £10 net had been received by the Society from the opening of Madresfield Court Gardens during last May. Three sums of 5 guineas each from this collection were offered and accepted by three members of the Auxiliary, willing to contribute similar sums and thus constitute themselves life members, at the same time doubling the amount originally available for handing over to the parent Society. There being no county candidate this year votes were given optionally to the most deserving candidates. The Chairman pointed out that before this auxiliary branch was formed more money was received from headquarters by pensioners in this county than was subscribed by the whole of the gardeners and gentry in the same area. Altogether some £775 had been forwarded to the parent Society. Still, it was felt I*}' all the members that there were many gardeners in the county who ought to become guinea subscribers, and it was finally resolved that every member should try to introduce one fresh member '. Phoebe var. exquisita, and C. x Lady AVimborne. A First- claBS Certificate was awarded to C. x Rolfete var. atupenda {Silver Medal). E. AsHWORTH, Esq., Wilmslow (gr., Mr. Holbrook), exhibited Cypripedium x vexillarium var. Rougierii and Cattleya chocoensis alba, the latter having previously been dealt with by the Committee. Philip Smith, Esq., Sale (gr., Mr. Kitchin), exhibited a good plant of Cypripedium -■> J. Howe. A. Warrurton, Esq., Haslingden, staged three fine Cyprii)edes, viz., C. ■ Euryades Sander's var., C. >: aurcum var. Hyeana (both of wliich received First- class Certificates), and a seedling from C. Leeanura var. Alhertiana x C. insigne, which was given an Award of Blerit. M. Vuylsteke, Ghent, staged a small and interesting groiq) of various hybrid Odontoglossums (Vote of Thanks). Messrs. J. Cowan k Co., Ltd., Gateacre, had a good group of Odontoglossuius, Cattleyas, Cypripedes, &c., for which a Silver Medal was awarded. G. AV, Law-Schofield, Esq., Rawtenstall (gr., Mr. Shill), obtained a Silver Medal for a well-grown collection of distinct Cypripedes, principally hybrids, amongst which was a fine form of C. ■ Euryades. Mr. D. McLeod, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, was given a Vote of Thanks for a small group of Cypripedes. P. W. WOODBRIDGE HORTICULTURAL. January 20. — The annual meeting of the Wood- bridge Horticultural Society was held on the above date. The chair was taken by Mr. John Loder, J.P. There was a large attendance. The Hon. Secretary (Mr. John Andrews) reported that the .£25 Rose Challenge Cup had Ijeen won four times by Mr. Cant, of Colchester, and therefore became his pro]»erty. It was resolved that a prize of £5 be given this year instead of a cup. The Hon. Secretary annoimced that he must tender his resignation after this year's show. This decision LONDON DAHLIA UNION. January 24.— A meeting of the suiijiorters of the Union was held at the Hotel Windsor, Victoria Street, on the above date. Mr. John Green, Chairman of the Union presided, and there was a good attendance ; in addition a number of letters were received promising continued support. The Annual Report congratulated the members on the success of the exhibition held at Earl's Court in September last. There was keen competition in most of the classes, especially in that for twelve bunches of Cactus Dahlias. Mr. Gledstanes has generously promised to continue his prizes in l'J05 and in 190G. Arrangements are being made for holding an annual exhibition m the Prince's Hall at Earl's Court during the third week in September in the present year. The balance sheet showed an income of £69 Is. Ot?., and an expenditure of just over £07, leaving a small balance to be carried forward. Sir. John Green was re-elected Chairman of the Union, and Mr. R. Dean, Secretary, and both were thanked for their past services. Much regret was expressed at the absence of the Secretary through illness. CROYDON HORTICULTURAL MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT. January 25. — The fifth annual dinner was held at the Greyhound Hotel on the above date, under the Presidency of Mr. J. J. Reid (President of the Society), the vice-chair being taken by Mr. R. Hooper Pearson, of the Gardeners' Chronicle. The tables were decor- ated witli plants and flowers. The attendance was large, the arrangements were perfect, and the gathering was a most successfiU and pleasant one, affording every encouragement for the holding of similar meetings in the future. When the Chairman had proposed the toast of " The King," the Vice-Chairman proposed that of "The Society," which he said had now 133 members. He hoped the Society woidd continue to progress, and that it would give attention to the science as well as to the practice of gardening, and thus ^help gardeners and employers to obtain the utmost pleasure and profit from their gardens. Mr. Douglas Young supported the toast, and Mr. H. Boshier (Hon. Secretary) in reply gave a very encouraging account of the Society's circumstances. Mr. M. E. Mills gave "Kindred Societies," and this was responded to by Dr. Jackson. The Chairman presented the prizes awarded for essays, the prize-winners being as follows: "Pruning and Training of Hardy Fruit Trees," 1st, Mr. T. W. Briscoe; 2nd, Mr. W. A. Cook: "Birds of Our Gardens," 1st, Mr. J. Sugdeu ; 2nd, Mr. H. Peckham. Other toasts included that of "The Chairman," and " The Horticultural and Local Press.' The proceedings were enlivened bj- songs and instrumental music. NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM. Janu.\ry 25. — A meeting of the Committee which carried out the Market Show at Essex Hall on Decem- ber 14 last was held at Carr's Restaurant on the above date Mr. R. Ballantine, Chairman of the Committee. l)residing. The secretary, Mr. R. Dean, presented a balance-sheet showing receipts from subscriptions of £20 10s. Gd. ; medals given as prizes, £8 18s. Sd. ; tickets sold and payments at the doors amotmted to £2 10s. Or?. ; showing a total of £37 V.)s. 3d. On the credit side medals wore awarded to the value of £21 7s. \)d. ; hire of hall, £5 5s. ; printing and circu- lating the schedule, £1 15s. ; show expenses, £8 3s. Id. ; leaving a small balance to be carried forward. Great satisfaction was expressed that the show receipts had covered all the expenses. A general opinion was expressed that the show should be rejieated during the present year, and various suggestions were thrown out, all of which will be considered by the Committee at a meeting to be held shortly. In the evening a large number of supporters of the show dined together at Carr's Restaurant, under the presidency of 5lr. R. liallantinc, the tables being pret- tily decorated with Chrysanthemums supplied by Mr. Geo. Prickett. Mr. D. Ingamells acted as dinne- secretary, and everything passed otf in the pleasantest manner possible. Great satisfaction was expressed at the first appearance of Mr. R. Dean after his severe illness. ABERDEEN CHRYSANTHEMUM. The annual meeting was held in the Round Room, Music Hall Buildings. Aberdeen, on Saturday evening, 28th ult. Mr. J. C. Mintv presided in the absence of the usual chairman, Mr. Esslemout. The Committee's Febbuabt i, 1905.] TMU GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 79 st.atement showed that the Society was in a flourish- ing condition. The annual exhibition was hehl on the ISth and IDth November, and they had to congi'atuhite themselves on its success. The total UxxkU at the credit of the Society was now £11)5 On. lie?. The total income for the year was £414 8.s., and they had increased their balance by £49. The Report was unanimously adopted. The meeting then proceeded to the election of office-bearers, when the following were elected : — Hon. President, Lord Provost Walker ; President, Mr. James Ksslemont ; Vice-President, Mr. A. K\'noch. A committee of twenty was also elected. Ml'. M. H. Sinclair was reappointed Secretary and Treasurer. It was decided to hold this year's show on November 17 and IS. GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES. REDHILL, REIGATE AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'. — This Society held its fortnightly meeting ou January 17, Mr. W. P. Bound in the chair, there being about ninety members present. The subject of the lecture was "Tiie luHueuce of Manure on Plants," given by Mr. Howard, of Wye College, who has arranged to give a series of three lectures on this subject. Mr. Howard dealt in a very lucid and comprehensive manner with his subject, pointing out tlie best methods of storing and preserviug stable or animal manure in order to maintain all the manurial properties until applied to the plant. He also went very minutely into the analysis of artificial manures. A very helpful and interesting discussion followed. CARDIFF GARDENERS'.— At a meeting held at the Sandringham Hotel on Tuesday, January :^4, Mr. T. Clarke presiding, !Mr. H. R. Farmer, Cardiff Castle, gave a very interesting lecture, entitled "Plants and Floral Decorations Suitable for a Private Establishment." Many valuable hints were given upon the colouring of foliage and upon other details. Tlie lecturer advised thcuse of very light and graceful flowersand foliage for dinner-table decoration, and the use of the most graceful plants for grouping about the interior of the mansion. Mr. Mayne opened the discussion, which was well taken up by the members. J. J. CHELMSFORD AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.— At the weekly meeting on Friday, January 27, Mr. Hammond, of Widford, gave a paper on " Orchids." He traced the history of their introduction into England, and referred to the S^ii genera and 4.000 species now known. The speaker spoke of the difficulties collectors have to contend with. Often on reacliing England a rare specimen is found to be dead. The speaker dealt fully with the method of culture, and showed the fallacy of the old idea that Orchids were too diilicult for the average man to gi'ow. In the discussion that followed, the use of leaf mould in growing Orchids was deprecated, and it was the opinion of many members that the unattractive appearance of Orchids when not in flower was a hindrance to their ever becoming popular conservatoiy plants. S. M. ''. BATH GARDENERS' SELF-HELP AND DEBATING. —The fortnightly meeting of the above Society was held on Monday. January 23, Mr. T. Parrott occupying the Chair. Tliere were several excellent exhibits on the tables, including Cyclamen and Cinerarias. The minutes of the Committee meeting contained proposals for forming a sick benefit club, and for holding a Chrysantliciuuiu show in November, Eight new members were added to the roll of the Society. A pre- sentation has been made to the Society of a number of books ou gardening. The Chairman opened a dis- cussion on Mushroom-culture, which formed the first of two subjects for debate during the evening. After this subject had been well discussed, Mr. Bickerstafi' commenced a debate on Cyclamen. G'. Q. McL. CHESTER PAXTON,— The second meeting of the aliove Society was lield on Saturday, January 1:8, at the Grosvenor Museum, Chester, when Mr. R. Kcwslead, A.L.S.. the Curator, delivered a lecture on '-Some Common Birds of the Orchard and fiarden." The lecturer said the fact is well known that certain birds indict injuries upon fruit-trees and their products, and also upon some of our cultivated vegetables, but it is not equally well known that tltey are in many instances of great service in destroying the insect-pests of the garden. Mr. Newstead's remarks were based entirely upon the personal investigation of some 2,000 stomach contents of birds, supplemented by careful observations in the field. The lecture was fully illustrated. The vagaries of the bullfinch, the greenfinch, the titmice, and the starlings were much discussed at the close of the lecture. KINGSTON GARDENERS'.-At the last meeting of the abdvc .^(iciriy Mr. Mills, of Coombe House Gardens, Croydon, gave a pajicr ou "Chrysanthemums," chiefly from an exhibitor's point of view. The lecturer described in detail the methods of cultivation he had found suitable from practical experience, asserting that careful attention to small details is the secret of success in Chrysanthemum-growing. Valuable information was given on cultural points and on exhibiting the flowers. The dreaded " rust " disease was said to be overcome by the use of "Bcntley's Mildew Specific," which should, however, be used at double strength on fully-developed foliage. Numerous diagrams were used to illustrate the remarks. J. T. B. SCHEDULE RECEIVED. Kidderminster and District Ho[(ticui.tural Ro- ciETY'y Dallodil Show on Saturday, April J.S; Summer Show on Saturday, July 15 ; and Dahlia Show on Saturday, September 16. M A R K E TS, COVENT GARDEN, February 1. Imported Flowers : Average Wholesale Prices. Cut Flowers, &c. ; Average Wholesale Prices. Anemones, pink, p. 12 bunches. — lulgens, per doz. bunches. Carnations, per doz. bunches. Fern, French, per doz. bunches. Freesias, p. doz. bunches Lilac, per bunch. Marguerites, per doz. bunches. s.d. s.d. 1 2 0- 3 3 0- i 9 0- 12 6 ^:. 2 0-30 3 6-40 2 0- 3 Mimosa (Acacia), per basket ... Narcissus, per basket Ranunculus, per doz. bunches. Roses, per dozen blooms Violets, blue, per dozen bunches. Parma. per large bunch... Plants in Pots, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices. s. d. 3. d. Acacia Dr um- mondi, per doz. 18 0-24 o AraliaSicboldi,doz.4 0-6 Aspidistras, green, per doz. d. s. d. Draca?nas, p. doz. 9 0-2i Daffodils, Yellow Trumpet, doz. 6 0- t> o Ericas, per doz.... 12 C-18 ... 18 0-24 ; Euonymus.p.doz. 4 0-90 I Ferns, in thumbs, perioo I — in 48's, p. doz. ! — in 32's, p. doz. Ficus elastica, p. doz repens, p. doz. ir legated, per doz. ... 30 0-42 Azalea indica, p. doz 30 0-42 — mollis, p. doz. 24 o-42 o Asparagus plu- mosus nanus, per doz. ... 12 0-18 Genistas, per doz, — Sprengeri.doz. 8 0-12 Hyacintlis (3 in a — tenuissimus per doz. ... 8 O-IO o Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, doz. 12 0-lS — Turnford Hall, per doz. ... 9 0-15 Boronia mega- stigma, p.doz. 24 0-30 Calla sethiopica, per doz. ... 10 12 Cinerarias, dozen 10 0-12 Crotons, per doz. 12 0-30 CocosWeddelliana, per doz. ... 18 0-30 Cyclamen pcrsi- cum, per doz. 12 0-15 Spiraea japonica, Cyperus alterni- per doz. folius, p. doz. 3 0-50 Tulips, in boxes, — laxus, p. doz. 3 0-40 each Foliage Average Wholesale Prices. B.d. s.d. 8 0-12 4 0- 10 9 0-18 9 12 6 0-90 9 0-12 8 0-12 pot), per doz, — Roman, in boxes, each... 3 0-36 Kentia Bel more- ana, per doz,.. 12 0-18 — Fosteriana, p. doz 12 0-21 Lataniaborbonica, per doz. Marguerites, doz. Primula sinensis, per doz. — obconica.doz. Solanum capsicas- trura.perdoz, 9 15 6 0-10 4 0-60 4 6 Asparagus plu- mosus. long trails, each ... — — medium, each short sprays per bunch... — Sprengeri ... — tenuissimus.. Adiantum cuuea- tum, doz. bun. Crotonleaves,doz. 10-26 9-16 9-10 6 0-90 10 2 Cycas leaves, each Fern, Eoglish ... Ivy-leaves.bronze — long trails, per bundle ... — short green, perdoz, bnch. Myrtle Smilax, p. buncli Hardy foliage (various), per dozen bunches 6 0-12 8 12 s.d. s.d. 1 0- 1 (5 3 0-40 16-20 10-20 10-16 3 0-40 4 0- 6, Fruit : Average Wholesale Prices. Apples, bushel ... — English, sieve or half bushel per barrel . — N ewtown Pippin .., per case ... Bananas, bunch . — loose, dozen... Chestnuts, bag ... Chow-Chows, per dozen Cobnuts, per lb. . Cranberries, per box Custard - Apples, per dozen Vegetables' Artichokes, Globe, per dozen ... Asparagus, bunch — Giant — Paris Green... — Spanish,bunch — Sprue, perdoz. Beans, dwf., p. lb. — Madeira, per basket Beetroot, bushel Brussels-Sprouts, bag Cabbages, p. tally Carrots, 12 bunch. — bag Cauliflowers, doz. — Cherbourg ... — Italian, bskt. — St. Malo, doz. Celeriac, per doz. Celery, doz.bnchs. Cress, doz. pun. Cucumbers, doz. Curled Kale, bush. Endive, per doz. Garlic, per lb. ... Horseradisli, fo- reign, p. bunch Mint, per dozen... Leeks, doz.bndls. s.d. s.d. ,' s.d. s.d- 2 0-50 Grape-Fruit, per j case 10 — 10-36'Grapes, Gros 8 6-12 6 Colmar, p, lb. 10-16 — Muscat, 4 6-70 — Alicante, lb. 10-13 per barrel. 15 0-20 Lemons, per case 9 O-iO Lychees, per box. 19 — Oranges, per case 8 6-12 6 — Blood 8 6 — — Navel 14 6 — — Jaffa, per box 10 « — — Seville ... 5 6 — — Mandarines (420) 8 6 — Pines, each ... a o- 3 : Average Wholesale Prices. s. d. s, d. i s. d. s. d. Lettuces, Cabbage, per dozen ... 14 — Mushrooms(house) perlb 10 — Onions, pickling, per sieve ... 5 0-60 — English, ewt. 15 0-18 — Foreign, p.bag 13 6 — I — Valencia, per 3 — case 14 6 — 1 6 — Parsley, per doz. bunches ... 2 — Parsnips, per bag 3 — Peas. French, per Hat fi — Potatos, per ton 60 0-100 Radishes, p. doz. bunches ... 7-09 Rhubarb, York. per dozen ... 13 — Salad, ^niall pun- nets, per doz 9 — Savoys, per tally 4 0- 5 41 15 6 6 0-: 1 14 2 6 5 2 — 7 — 7 0-10 6 so- le- 9 — 3 6 — 2 — 3 6 — 2 — so- le— 2 — 3 4i- 2 — 2 — 9 — 9 — 5 0-80 ,13 — 2 — 5 — 10 — 3 0-40 2 6 — Seakalo, per doz. 12 o Shallots, p. sieve 4 o — Tomatos, per box 12 0-16 Turnips per doz. 16 — — per bag ... 2 — Turnip-tops, bag 20 3 Watercress, per doz. bunches . C- 8 Azalea Fielderi, per doz. bun.. — molHs,perdz. bunches Bouvardia, white, per doz. bun. — scarlet and pink, per doz. bunches CaJla ffithiopica, per doz. blooms Camellias, perdz. blooms Carnations, best American vars. perdz. blooms — smallerblooms, per doz. bun.. Cattleya labiata, per doz. blooms Chrysanthemums, best blooms, pr, dz. blooms — in bunches, per doz. bun.. Cypripedium in- sj^ne, per doz. blooms Dailodils, single yellow, perdz. bunches — double, perdz. bunches — Golden Spur, per doz. bun. — iTeni-y Irving, per doz. bun. — princeps, per doz. bunches. — Sir Watkin, per doz. bun. DciJdi'obi\im no- bile, 13 blooms. Eucharis grandi- llora, 12 bldoiiis Euphorbia jacqui- nireflora, per bunch .. Gardenias, perdz, blooms Hyacinths, Roman, per doz. bun. ... Lilac (English forced), per bun. Lilium auratuni, per bunch ... s. in the Channel Islands. 33 in England. S.W.. and 31 in England. S.. to *nlv Jl aud II respectively in Ireland, N., and Scotland, N," THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS. Earcmrkr rcmarT^aUy high.— This ha^ been a week of •hangeabic weather, but on the whole i-ather warm. On ♦he wannest day the highest reading in the thermometer s^l'een Avas 50°. and on the coldest night the exposed thermometer showed l.v of frost. The grouud is at the present time at about an average temperature at 1 foot deep, but about 2° colder than is seasonable at 2 feet deev- On two mornings the grass on the lawn was coated with hoar-frost when the temperature of the air was from 5° to 8° above the freezing-point. This unusual phenomenon was uo doubt due to the frozen condition «f the ground keeping down the temperature of the grass when the .air above it was comparatively warm. No rain worth mcnlioning has fallen for over a iDvtjiight. Small amounts of rainwater came through ftotfi percolation gauges on each day during the week. Tlie sun shone on an average for 3; hours a day. or for aibout 3 hours a day longer than is usual at this season. On the 29(h ult. nearly 7 hours of clear sunshine was re «orded— making it with one exception the most sunny day I Slave yet recorded here in .lanuary. The atmo- ai>liere was vcrj' calm at Ihe hejinning of the week but on the last day the velocity rose early in the morning ♦o 19 miles an hour— direction west. The mean amount of moisture in the air at 3 p.Jt. fell short of a seasonable quantity by as much as 9 per cent. For three days the Raromoter coutiuued singularly high, and on the 28tli at midnight it stood at 30*93 inches, which is the highest scadiug I have yet recorded here. E. M., BcrUhamsUd, JnnimrySl, 1905. {For actual iemprrnliar and rmditiim of barovider al flitjw afgoinj It Prcff!, fier p. 72.] Apple : G. F. T. The shoots are badly cankered, the canker being probably due to a fungus, Nectria, and there is an abundance of insect eggs. Cut the trees hardback; or if you can plant them on a different site it will be well to do so. Bird: Oardener. The beautiful bird yousend is the brambling (Fringilla montifringilla) ; It is also known in some parts of the country as the mountain finch. It visits us in autumn and winter, its presence and relative abundance depending in a great measure upon the severity of the weather on the Continent. Your speci- men, on dissection, was found to contain Beech- masts (their favourite food) and a few seeds of the Knot-grass. Books: Gardener. The Handbook of the Farm Series, published at 2s. Gd. each, includes The J/irc Stock o/ thr Farm, and The Dairy of the Farm, either of which would be suitable for your purpose if you can obtain them from a second-hand bookstall. If not, apply to Messrs. Vinton & Co., Ltd., 9, New Bridge Street, Ludgate Circus, EC, who publish a number of similar works. Bulbs Diseased: J. S. The roots of the bulbs are completely destroyed by the bulb-mite. Ehizoglyphus hyacinthi, which are present in immense numbers. For preventive measures see p. 40 of the issue for January 21, 1905. Cattleta Tkiana! : M. L. Tour CattleyaTrians seems to have made premature growth, which failed to mature in consequence of the absence of the necessary degree of light, and probably air, to maintain it in health. Cut off this growth and place the plant near to the glass of the roof of the house in which it is growing, and keep the material about the roots mode- rately dry until new growths appear. Caps Gooseberry : .i . The cultivation of this plant is not at all difficult, and it wiD thrive in any common garden soil. It is best propagated from seeds and by division of the plants. You should keep them somewhat on the dry side in a cool greenhouse until the spring ; they can then be started into growth and should readily produce their inflorescences followed by the inflited calyces enclosing the fruits, which are edible. Chinese Peimulas : R. li. Are all the flowers parti-coloured ? The combination of crimson and blue, if not due to a bruise, is very curious. EncH.ARis Bulbs Failing to Flower: A. Al- though we find no specimens of the Eucharis- mite on the bulb you forwarded, there are indications that this pest is present in the stock. This, however, would not be sufficient to account for your bulbs not flowering. The reason appears to us to be due to their small size, the specimen sent being much too small to develop a strong flowering spike. Encourage the bulbs to develop by affording tbem a temperature of from 65° to 70°, rising to 80° in the summer, giving them plenty of ■water except for a few weeks in autumn. Many skilful gardeners experience much difficulty in successfully flowering these plants. On p. 412 of our issue for December 10, 19U4, you will find a note from a correspondent who gives details of his plan of flowering these plants successfully^ Fern Root.s : W. B. We find no insects on the roots of your Ferns. Probably what you have seen on the roots is the White Fly that is so common in houses where Tomatos are grown. Your plants showed signs of being pot- bound. Remove some of the old soil aLd repot the plants. Gardeners' Notice : Gardener. The foreman is only entitled to claim a week's notice. N.AMES of Fruit: ^f. E. B. 1, Eoss Nonpareil; 2, Claygate Pearmain ; 3, Norfolk Beefing. — A.R. Lord Lennox.— B. r. 1, Forf.ar ; 2, Chelms- ford Wonder. Names or Plants : .4. E. Eetinospora squarrosa. — Constant Reader, Leicester. 1, Cypripedium barbatum ; 2, Dendrobium primulinum, rather common in gardens ; 3, Begonia h ydrocotyli- folia ; -l, Fittonia argyroneura — C. H. 1, Eranthemum pulchellum : 2, Polypodium glaucum ; 3, Asplenium bulbiferum ; 4, Sela- ginella viticulosa ; 5, Davallia Mooreana ; G, Caustis flexuosa. — A. B. W. Dendrobium cari- niferum, and a narrow-petalled form of Lselia antumnalis. — Thurso. 1. Dendrobium primu- linum : 2, Phalcenopsis Stuartiana ; 3, Epiden- drum polybulbon ; 4, Hcemanthus puniceus. — J. }[,. Severn. One of the garden-raised forms of Begonia subpeltata. Orchid grower : W.P. Advertise in the horti- cultural papers of those colonies you desire to settle in ; or you might apply to the authorities at Kew Gardens, who fill many colonial ap- pointments, although they generally have suit- able men of their own staff who receive these appointments. Try the larger Orchid-growing firms, such as Messrs. Sander, St. Albans, who are often requested to furnish competent men. Planting Early Peas and Potatos : T. £., Sandown. In such a warm and sheltered posi- tion as you describe, first early Peas may be sown during the last week in January or during . the first week in February, selecting a fine day for the purpose and when the soil is fairly dry. If the ground at the time of planting is at all heavy and wet, the drills should be drawn some- what deeper, say, at a depth of 5 inches, and an inch and a half of drier and finer soil placed at the bottom of the trench, similar soil being placed over the Peas when sown. When the drills are filled in the soil should be heaped up so as to form a small ridge over the drill in order to throw off excessive rain. Mice are often very destructive to early-sown Peas, there- fore a sharp look-out must be kept for these pests and set traps. The first or second week in March (according to the state of the weather) is early enough to plant first early Potatos out-of-doors. Jf phanted before this time, and a spell of cold weather follows, the tubers often rot in the ground. In order to ensure early and satisfactory crops, it is advis- able to look over seed Potatos without delay, arranging them in single layers in shallow boxes or on the floor of a light cool room from which frost is excluded. Here they will soon start naturally into growth, and when planting time arrives Ihey will have formed sturdy " chits " or growths an inch or two in length. At the time of planting the Potatos must be handled with all possible care so as not to damage the young growths. The rows should be planted at a distance of 10 inches apart, and 2 feet should be allowed between the tubers. Potatos : 0. R. We cannot undertake to name varieties of Potatos. Send them to a trade grower, who may be able to assist you by com- paring your tubers with his named varieties. Tree Fern ; Constant Reader. You will incur no danger of losing your plant if it is severed, but you must be particular afterwards in syringing the stem frequently in order to keep the aerial roots moist. Maintain plenty of atmospheric moisture in the house. Eeduce the leaf surface if possible by removing any leaves that can be spared. Place a layer of sand beneath the stem when replanting. See note respecting Tree Ferns on p. 70. Communications Received.— La Mortola— E. M. H.— D'O — Jas. Veitcli & Sons— F. Mason Good- F. C— E 0. C D. (next week)-W. W.-S. W. W.— G. P.— J W H.— O. J. D.— J. Wiles— J. R. G..BU5liugthorpe— W F -E. Q.-G. W. S.— W. M. F.— Sir Michael Foster — P J.— S. H.. California-J. O'B.- E. M.— J. E.— F. Street-J. R. J.-J. J. W.— R. D.— J. H. (many llianks. but the photographs are unfortunately very coor)-H. .1. W.-S. J. F. & Co.-W. M.-T. D.-J. H.- A C -J W.-A. H.— C. E. T.-G. S.-U. Bros.- Yell.— F. H. o •_) u (i, o w u w Q w H >-' W a; a: PL, <1 O H <1 o 2 O Q ■~ri D O O z Ij hj w > w K H FBBEUABT 11, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 81 -lace, I fancy the farmers in East and Mid Lothians must be feeling very uncomfortable at present, especially some I know who cultivate for the London markets from 300 to 500 acres of Potatos annually. I have always been under the impression that it was the qiiality of those Potatos that created the sale for them in the London market ; yet I must have been mis- taken, as many others no doubt have been. I fancy there will need to be another " cooking " and " testing " match again before many are con- vinced of the folly of growing Potatos in Scot- land for the London markets that are only second- rate as compared with Potatos grown so near to London as Essex is. David Kem%i, Stoke Park Gardens, Sloiigh. ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS. OKCHIDS AT WESTFIELD, WOKING. A VERT remarkable collection of Cypripediums, Ltelias, Cattleyas, and La^io-Cattleyas has been got together by Francis Wellesley, Esq. (gr., Mr. Hopkins), and the plants thrive in a very satis- factory manner in the well-arranged houses provided for them. One of the chief items of interest in the collec- tion is the complete set of hybrids of the now nearly lost C. Fairrieanum. Of primary crosses of that coveted species Mr. Wellesley has C. x Princess, C. X Edward, C. -. H. Ballantine, and the fine Westfield. variety of it, C. X Mrs. F. L. Ames, C. :■: Juno, C. ;< Baron Schroder, seven very distinct forms of C. . . Niobe, C. x Gaskelli- anum, C. :■ vesUlarium and its varieties superbum, " Eex," and Bongieri ; and four forms of C. x Arthurianum. Of secondary crosses of C. Fairrieanum, C. x vexill-Io, C. x bella, C. X Statterianum, C. x Norma mag- nificum, C. x Abraham Lincoln (Niobe xorphan- um), C. x Minos, and the fine varieties Toungii, Westfield variety, magnificum and superbum, C. X Laura, C. x Imogene, C. x Little Gem, C. X Thalia, Westfield variety, C. x Arthurianum x insigne Sanderse, C. x Niobe x Leeanum, 0. x Niobe x Haynaldianum, C. x Niobe x philippi- niense, and 0. x vexillarium ;■; Argus. It will be seen that the pretty little C. Fairrie- anum, although now at the vanishing point in collections, has played a very important part in the hands of the hybridist, and the field of its usefulness is being further developed at Westfield. It has been advanced by hybridists that by inter-crossing the hybrids of C. Fairrieanum. and especially those nearest like it, that a seedling practically identical with the species may be obtained. But Mr. Wellesley has worked hard in this direction and with but little result, for the seed vessels obtained seem to have little or no good seeds in them. Out of 120 crosses between Fairrieanum hybrids made and sown at Westfield, but one small plant has resulted, although other hybrids are coming up in great profusion, some of them being the result of very wide crosses. The hunt for C. Fairrieanum in the hills of Assam and other parts of India has been long con- tinued, but hitherto fruitlessly. If, however, it is determined to have it in gardens again it will be obtained from its native habitat if the search is continued, before it will be raised by the means prescribed, if Mr. Wellesley's tests are final. Cypripedium x Mrs. Francis Wellesley (San- derianum x Oowerianum magnificum) is a most beautiful hybrid, flowering for the first time. Unlike some hybrids of C. Sanderianum, this is a robust grower, its handsome ivory-white foliage, barred and veined with dark green, being finely developed. The stout purple stem bears lai^e 84 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Febeuabt 11, 1905' flowers, the ovate-f.cimirate dorsal sjpal white ■with heavily-blotched raised lines of chocolate- purple, the basal part tinged with pale green. The long, extended petals yellowish-white tinged with rose, and with an obscure green veining and many large warted blotches of chocolate- purple, those on the aipper edge being furnished with long blackish hairs. The lip is large, and very suggestive of C. Sanderianum ; cream-white tinged with rose on the face ; staminode rose colour. It is a very beautiful and distinct hybrid. Cypripedium :■, Mrs. Wm. Mostyn, figured in the Gardeners' Chronicle, February 1, 1902, p. 75, from the plant when it was awarded a First-class Certificate, is one of the handsomest hybrids ever raised, its fine dorsal sepal being bright purplish-rose of different shades with a broad white margin, and the yellowish lip and petals finely marked with red-brown. The fine collection of species and hybrids of the C. niveura and C. bellatulum class are sus- pended near to the glass of the roof and sparingly watered until spring comes. One fine tuft of C. beUatulum album is pushing many growths and the remarkable yellow, purple- spotted C. x Wellesleyanum is now forming a fine specimen. Most of the hybrids of this class are in the collection, and all are found to be impatient of water on the foliage during cold dull weather. Many pretty hybrids are in flower, and good batches of different forms of C. X Hera, C. X Sallieri, varieties of C. insigne. Especially fine are the specimens of the best forms of Cypri- pedium Lawrenceanum, of which even the re- putedly slow-growing albino, C. Lawrenceanum Hyeanum, has made a sturdy specimen." In the Cattleya and La;lia-house the occupants are in fine condition, and some of the best varieties are now represented by several specimens. By ju- dicious dividing the plants are found to grow more vigorously and produce better flowers than when left in close masses. A batch of albino Cattleyas of the C. Mossice class are in grand health and showing well for bloom. Laelio - Cattleya X Eunomia Westfield variety has a model fiower nearly equal in size to that of a good Cattleya Triante, and of a clear dark rose colour with purplish-crimson front to the lip. La;lio-Cattleya X Charlesworthii magnifica is like L.-C. ;• Cappei in size and in the rich coppery-orange tint of its flowers, the labellums of which are light reddish- claret. Other showy Orchids were in flower, and many of the plants bore nearly mature seed capsules ; but, thanks to the good cultivation accorded them, are still plump and vigorous. Among plants not in flower two instances were noted pointing to the difficulty of identifying imported plants by the appearance of their growths. In one instance was a plant of Cattleya ;< Hardyana imported with C. aurea, and exactly like C. aurea in growth. Another plant of it imported with C. Warscewiczii was totally different in growth, and with the rounder greener pseudo-bulbs and leaves of C. Warscewiczii. The second instance was of Ltelio- Cattleya ;■: Gottoiana. One imported with L^elia tenebrosa had the slender hard growths of that species, while the other got with C. Warneri was Cattleya-like in growth. In both cases there is but little difference in the flowers. Stenoglottis fimbriata. This rare and pretty South African terrestrial Orchid is in flower on several specimens in the gardens of Mrs. Brightwen, The Grove, Stan- more. The plants bear handsome crowns of bright green leaves, heavily barred and blotched with dark pui-ple, arranged rosette-like close above the surface of the soil in the pots in which they are growing. The inflorescences arise from the centre of the growth, the scapes bearing leafy bracts spotted like the leaves, and terminal spikes of blush-white and pale lilac flowers. A number of strong plants of the more robust- growing Stenoglottis longifolia are in the same house, and some singular Satyriums, Disas, &c., Disa sagittalis being in flower, which, in common with many other rare and curious plants, Mr. J. W. Odell, the gardener at The Grove, culti- vates very successfully. The Stenoglottis, Disas, &c., are grown in a warm greenhouse in winter and in a cool frame in summer. /. TEELOYHAN. The Cornish, residence of E. Hain, Esq., M.P., is situated on the cliffs overlooking St. Ives Bay, on both sides of which the coast is practically tree- less. To the right, just across the bay, are the sand-dunes of Hayle, among'st which are scattered the huts and works of the National Explosives Company. Westwards the scenery and vegetation are typical of the wild North Cornwall coast — steep, rugged cliffs, and poor, shallow soil growing coarse grass, with patches of gale-stunted Heather seeds so freely in all parts of Cornwall. Many kinds of Iris are thriving here, and there is a small collection of hardy Ferns : while in the fulE sunshine a patch of Eschscholtzia was a blaze of colour last season. Next comes the nucleus of a> collection of hardy Cacti, the most promisin of which is Opuntia camanchica. The shrubberies are already a feature oi' Treloyhan ; for the most part they encircle the lawns, which are irregular in outline, and form a series of bold curves. At the outset large num- bers of the commoner shrubs, Laiu'els of botb kinds, Ehododendron ponticum, ic, were wisely planted to form screens and nurse-plants. These are being gradually removed, leaving the choicer kinds, which now appear well able to look after themselves. Most conspicuous among the many and varied shrubs are Griselinia littoralis, which seems to have an especial predilection for the Cornish air, aud quickly forms large bushes.; Veronicas in variety, Berberis asiatica, GeuuL. W,; ■'■"* ^ ,111 >' !? S« ■■ I 'PiiiillllSllii U Fig. 37.— treloyhan house, Cornwall, the residence of e. hain, esq., m.p. and Gorse. These are the surroundings amid which Mr. Hain built his home, made his garden, and laid out his grounds. Trees, one would have thought, were wholly out of the question ; but it is the trees at Treloyhan which strike one most upon approaching St. Ives. As will be seen in the illus- tration[see fig. 3S], there is a healthy and vigorous plantation of mixed trees almost on the very edge of the cliffs. This plantation is composed chiefly of Sycamore, Ash, Beech, and the Cornish Elm. The gardens were designed and laid out by Messrs. Robert Veitch & Son, of Exeter, whose well-known landscape gardener, Mr. Meyer, most skilfully took advantage of the slight natural undulations. Where possible, such depressions were increased, and in the shelter thus provided he planted tender shrubs. A disused mine- burrow which had been partially filled up pro- vided an ideal site for a rockery, which in the short space of seven years has become well fur- nished. A dripping-well suitably planted is one of the features of this rookery. Close by the rockery a fine variegated Phor- mium tenax has thrown up a vigorous flower-spike much stronger and more erect than the spikes of Phormium Cookianum, a species which flowers an d Cistus, Althjea frutex (Hibiscus syriacus), and, of course, many Escallonias, E. exoniensisx, bearing masses of creamy-white flowers, was very good ; the white E. floribunda also had a profu- sion of flowers, and the common E. macrantha, planted thickly along the top of a stone ledge, has quickly transformed an eyesore into an ob.iect of beauty. Conifers. An experimental planting of Conifers has beeia made. It is too soon to say which will succeed, butap to the present many are thriving. The tallest are upwards of 20 feet in height, and of them the most promising are Araucaria imbricata, Abies Nordmanniana, Cryptomeria japonica, Larix leptolepis, Picea excelsa, P. nigra, Pinus aus- triaca, and P. insignis ; the latter tree does exceedingly well in Cornwall, and will withstand a considerable amount of wind. The deciduous trees which have grown the best are the common Ash, Sycamore, Turkey Oak, Cornish Elm, Service Tree, and the Purple Filbert. As a whole Cornwall is not a Eose country; where they are grown with success the plants have to be frequently renewed. Out of a large collection planted nearly a decade ago only February II, 19': THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 85 Merveille fie Ljod, Baroness Kothschild, Alfred Coloin>', Marie Baumann, and Boule de Neige remain . These are healthy, and flower freely ; so probably it is an instance of "the survival of the fittest." The kitchen-garden is well stocked with the crops usually grown in a private establishment. The soil is light and sandy, but with deep digging and the frequent use of the hoe satisfactory crops of vegetables are produced. Potatos are grown in plots almost on the seashore, the standard varieties being Myatt's Prolific, Ashleaf, and Main Crop. Mr. Madge told me that the dreaded Potato disease is practically unknown ! Can this immunity be due to the salt-spraying given by the gales ? Foster's Seedling, and Madresfield Court Muscat were the best at the time these notes were taken. The well-filled stove contains many useful and interesting plants, the most striking of which are Anthuriums in variety, several large pots of Pan- cratium, Allamanda Schottii, and the brighter- coloured A. nobilis, and, what I was surprised to see iu a private garden, a fine plant of the " Bow- string Hemp," Sanseviera guineensis. A. C. Bartlett. CHRYSANTHEMUMS. French National Chrysanthemum Society. — From Le Chrysanthime we learn that the Society now numbers 721 members, inclusive of dening fraternity in his country, as it has by those English gardeners who know what he has> done for the craft. The colour-chart in course of progress, which will be issued under the auspices of the Society, will shortly be ready for publication. Eachj colour is rei^resented in four distinct shades, and there will be approximately about 400 colours in all. Although published in French, it has beett considered necessary to make it useful for fiorists in other countries, so that uniformity of colouir description may be observed. It will therefore be in five languages. The French part, and the entire charge of the whole liublication, is in the- hands of M. Dauthenay, the German part is- being done by Mr. Max Leichtlin, the Italian bj Fig. 38. — treloyiian house : showing belt of trees overlooking st. ives bay, Cornwall. Apples canker early ; those which produce the oest crops are Cox's Oiauge Pippin, Blenheim Pippin, Lane's Prince Albert, Rymer, Bismarck, Golden Noble, and Stirling Castle. Of Pears, Mr. Madge would name but three as being uni- formly satisfactory — Bon Chretien, Marie Louise, and Beurre d'Amanlis. The Glasshouses. The small conservatory attached to the mansion is well furnished with Palms, Begonias, Fuchsias, Ferns, Agapanthus — a pot of the variegated form in flower looked very neat. In the centre of the house, which is left clear for tea-tables, ic.,st;inds a large cage containing Java sparrows and c;tna- ries, which strike a note of tropical colour. In the vineries good Grapes are olitained ; Golden Amber (well coloured and of good size). forty-seven affiliated societies — not a bad list for a ten-year-old society. The awards to seedling- raisers, made as a result of the certificates granted by the Floral Committee, were — 1, a Gold Medal to M. Ernest Calvat ; 2, a Silver-gilt Medal to M. Rozain Boucharlat; 3, a Silver Medal to M. Alfred Chantrier. M. Viger, President of the National Horti- cultural Society of France, is also Honorary President of the French National Chrysanthemum Society, and has very ably conducted the pro- ceedings at eight of the annual Conferences of the Society. This gentleman has recently been appointed Knight of the Legion of Honour. Although a late Minister of Agriculture, M. Viger has acquired the reputation of being almost a Minister of Horticulture, and this his latest honour lias been much appreciated by the gar- Mr. N. Severi, the Spanish by Mr. Miguel Cortes y Coll, and the English by Mr. Harinan Payne. Following the example of the American an(J English sister societies, the French National Chrysanthemum Society is about to issue an official catalogue of Chrysanthemums. It will bo published in instalments. C. II. P. Chrysanthemums Tied Down. In reply to Mr. Jefferies I may say that the plants illustrated were all bush plants. We do- not " stop " them at all, but pick out all the latest plants in the autumn to tie them down, so as to produce a good effect at Christmas time. The photograph was taken about a week before Christmas. The flowers, as Mr. Jefferies stated on ji. 7t'>, are not much use after being cut and if long stalks are required ; but we grow many bush 86 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Fbbeuaey 11, 190." plants and do not have to cut those that are tied ■down. We also grow some dwarf plants by rooting extra cuttings now, putting several in a 'CO-sized pot. They are planted out later on, and the tops of them are layered in July, as one would Carnations. I think these make better plants ■than those obtained from cuttings rooted in May. Plants under 3 feet high however are not much ^se for our jiurpose as they cannot be bent sharp down to cover the pots without breaking them. I presume anything trained in any shape or form would be in Mr. Jefferies' view objectionable ; but tastes differ. The object we seek to obtain is a bank of flowers, and the illustration showed that this is secured. Chrysanthemums have been trained in this way here for several years past, and have been appreciated by all who have seen them. W. C. Smith. The Gardens, Ecton. CHRTSANTHEMnM AlLMAN's YeLLOW. This proves to be the most useful late-flowering decorative variety that I have yet met with ; the flowers are 2 to 3 inches across, when grown naturally and not disbudded. The florets are slightly reflexed, and of deep yellow colour, very -much the same shade as that of Duchess of Sutherland, when the latter has been disbudded and grown well. The only variety comparable to Allman's Yellow for late flowering here is Princess Victoria, but for many purposes a yellow flower is more useful than a white one. W. H. Divers, Belvoir Castle Gardens, Grantham. Market Chrysanthemum Winter Cheer. We learn that since Mr. W. Hayward, of Kingston-on-Thames, exhibited flowers of this •fine late pink-coloured Chrysanthemum at a meet- dug of the Koyal Horticultural Society last month, he lias been inundated with applications for stock. Mr. Hayward exhibited the flowers as purchased by him in the market, and presented it not for any award as a new variety, but to show its fine decorative uses so late in the winter. The stock is held by some market-growers, and it is 'Understood they have no present intention to put plants into commerce, being content to find a good market for the flowers. Novelties however come thick and fast, by seed and by sports, hence •even a superior variety may soon be on offer. APPLIANCE TO PEEYENT " DRIP.' The Orchids here having suffered considerable 'injury from water dripping' from the roof, I ihave recently had beading fixed to the rafters, as shown in the accompanying illustrations (see &g. 39, A, B, c), and this has proved very suc- cessful in preventing the causes of the mischief. The use of the beading will save the expense and inconvenience that would be caused by reglazing the roof. The cost of the beading is about 7s. 6d. -for a length of 500 feet. Before fixing the beading put a thick coat of white-lead slightly thinned with linseed-oil on the under siarfaee. Use inch brads, about G inches apart. Two coats of paint at least shoiild be given the beading. F. G. Brewer, The Grange Gardens, Brentwood, Essc.r. PyJBL\CAr\ONSRECE\VED.-ThcAfjrieuU>ira!Jounial ■of the Cape of Ouod JIu/jc. Januiiiy. Contents : Extra- tropical Forcsti-y, by D. E. llutehius; Irrigation iu the Karoo, &ii.—L'Uira{r[/ on Curare, Extraits et Coiiiplc- Mient des Notes d'uri Naturaliste Bresilieo, J. Barbosa Rodriguos (Bruxelles, Imprimerie Veuve Mounom -32, Rue do riudustrio).— ics Noce.< des Palmiers, Re- .marquea prcliminaircs sur; la fccondation, p:u" J . Barbosa Rodrigues (Bruxelles, Imprimerie Ad. MerteD--^, Kue d'Or, 14), idOS.—Pb oiUc Nuvir vel minus cognita? ex lierbario horti TheneDsis (Plantes Nouvelles ou peu ■connues contenues dans I'hci-bier do I'Hortus The- DCDsis), M. Em. dc Wildeman. Troisiome livraisoii, Decembre, li'Ot (Veuve Monuom. 52, Rue de I'lndustrie, Bruxelles).— /co«(\s- ScUcln: llurli Theucn-n'^ (Icouograpliio de Plantes ayant fleuri dans les collections de M. vau 'den Bossche, Ministre resident -X Tirlemont, Belgique). avec les descriptions et annotations do M. Em. de \Vilde- man. Tome V., Fascicules 2 (July) and 3 (October), 1904. (Publishers as above.)— JV/yr/acf'f.s dti Paratiuai/, a-ecueillies par Dr. Emile Hassler et determindes par .1. Barbosa Rodrigues (Avenue Fousny ny, Bruxelles), 1903.— -4 Blotter a/nl ])iiir lightly. 88 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [FEefiUART 11, 1905. EDITORIAL NOTICES. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C Letters for Publication, as tceJl as specimens and p2-ant8 for naming, should he addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London. Oommunicat ions should ie written on one side onlt of THE PAPEB, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by the writer. If desired, the signature tcill not be printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith. Newspapers. — Correspondents sending newspapers should he careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY Feb i-^ * Jf^^'i^isli Gardeners' Association, ■) i Meeting at Birmingliam. ( Royal Horticultural Society's TUESDAY. Feb, 14-; Committees Meet, also Annual ( Meeting of Fellows. THURSDAY, Feb. 16— Linnean Society Meeting. BALES FOR THE WEEK. MONDAY, Febeuart !.■?- Roses, Greenliouse Plants, Gladioli, Spirfeas, &c., at Protlieroe & Morris' Rooms, 67 and 68, Cheapside E.G., at 12. WEDNESDAY, Februaet 1.5- Azaleas, Gloxinias, Fruit Trees, Japanese Lilies, &c., at Protlieroe & Morris' Rooms, at 12. FRIDAY, Febeuaby 17— Hardy Border Plants, Shrubs, Roses, Gladioli, &c., at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms, at 12.— Imported and Established Orchids, at Protheroe A Morris' Rooms, at 13.30. (For farther particulars see our Advertisement coluvms.) Atebage TEMPEKATtjEE for the ensuing week, deduced from observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick -39'1'. Actual Temperattjees :— London.— HfrfiicsiJni/, februaniS (6 p.m.): Max. 4.^°- Min. 42=". eardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.— TAursdav, Feb. S (10 a.m.) : Bar., 30 4 ; Temp., 43°. Weather- dull. Pbotinces. — Il'frinesdaj/, Feb. s (6 p.m.): Mm. 60°. S.W. Coast of Ireland ; Min. 45°, E. Coast of Ireland. The Thames (Embankment Gardens, We have often had occa- sion to remark that these gardens undergo small trans- form.ations in the matter of flower-l>eds, edgings, the arrangements as regards isolated trees and shrubs, and of the foregrounds of shrubberries. It will be conceded by any person capable of forming a just opinion on such matters that these alterations have rarely been satisfactory. The original design was itself feeble and inappropriate, and the out- lines of the shrubberies meaningless, while the arrangement of the beds round the band- stand near Charing Cross, where people most do congregate, afiordsan excellent example of how not to do it. The none too spacious grass plots have quite lately been made smaller by the introduction of numlters of small beds of puerile forms,and by the planting of isolated trees, destructive of all dignity and breadth of treatment, and making "spotty" effects which are very unsatisfactory. What seems to be required is the masking of the actual size and form of the ground by a large central mass of choice, deciduous and evergreen shrubs and trees of low stature, the shrubs consisting of specimens of ■from 4 to 10 feet in height when planted, and not of small nursery stock as we have •seen planted at conspicuous angles of the shrubbery lines this winter, which must take many years ere they form handsome objects. Many such fine shrubs as also ■trees might be grown in the extensive parks of Battersea and Victoria, or in special reserves elsewhere, thus lessening the cost to the ratepayer. The treatment of the flowering shrubs as regards their pruning also leaves much to be desired, it being an exceedingly rare thing to find any that are furnished with bloom, although even in the murky climate of London it is not impossible to secure the ripening of the wood and the formation of flower-buds. Why should we not have groups of Cerasus pseudo-Cerasus Watereri, which bears a profusion of delicately white flowers, and C. p.-C. James H. Veitch, which is equally floriferous, and the type form ; Hydrangea paniculata and H. p. grandiflora ; Deutzias in variety, the finer varieties of Lilac, also the Persian variety, a capital bloomer not growing over-tall ; Philadelphus in variety, including the beautiful coro- narius, P. Lemoinei Boule d'Argent, and P. Avalanche ? Besides these we may mention the follow- ing among many desirable plants that are worth a trial, though doubtless all would not succeed : — Mahonia, Buddleia globosa, B. Lindleyana and B. varialiilis, Calyeanthus, Ceanothus, Choisya ternata, Cratsegus, Cy- donia (many varieties), Forsythias, Fuchsia Eiccartoni, Magnolia Soulangeana, M. Lennc, M. stellata, Photinias, Kubus, Viburnum Opulus, V. plicatum (these are obtainable at cheap prices, and soon grow into good dimen- sions, and most of tliem succeed in ordinary soil), the Honey.suckles, both climliing and shrubby, the Clematis of the coccinea hybrid strains, and C. .iackmani, and other garden hybrids, herbaceous and tree P:eonies. In- deed the number of species ready to the hand of the planter is so great that we could not find space in an article of this kind to give the reader a tithe of them, and some at least would survive the smoky atmosphere and other untoward conditions. The Bamboos of a hardy nature might be employed to give diversity to the aspect of the gardens ; and the best of these for the purpose are Arundinariajaponica(.Aretake of gardens), already in use, A. nitida, A. Simoni (one of the tallest), A. S. var. stricta, Phyllostachys aurea with stems 12 feet in height (a very graceful species), P. Boryana, P. nigra (a species of striking appearance), and a few others. The present shruliberies are so arranged and planted as to admit of a foreground of flowering plant.s, a method that seems to be overdone, leaves much of the soil bare during the winter, and is costly, as it means the purchase of great numbers of Dutch bulbs and the providing of summer bedding plants. Much of this labour and outlay might be avoided, and a clothing of the soil afforded at all seasons by the employment of small shrubs in lieu of summer-flowering plants. Such permanent occupants might consist of Berberis Darwini, ]?. Thunbergi, B. stenophylla, Cotoneaster microphylla, and C. Simonsii; Cydonia japonica, Gaultheria Shallon, G. procumbens, Pernettya mucro- nata in variety, Skimmia japonica, Hyperi- cum in dwarf varieties, double -flowered Furze, Vinca major and V. minor in varie- gated varieties, and Euonymus radicans. If peat could be obtained, many American plants could be grown to give additional interest to the garden. It may be said that these plants could not adapt themselves to the distressful conditions, and this, indeed may be true of some, but not of all. The designer of the garden could never have intended to plant Poplar-trees round the boundaries, to remain till they died of disease or old age, but simply to give it a somewhat furnished ajipearance till such time as better things attained a good height. Now these trees overtop the rest, and have become anything but ornamental, besides shading the garden unduly on the embank- ment side, and when in leaf robbing the soil of moisture and nutriment. Their place in every case should be occupied by choicer trees, say Pavias, Maples in variety, Ailan- thus glandulosus, Amelanchier canadensis, the common Birch and several varieties, Carpinus in variety, Catalpa bignonioides, Gleditschia sinensis and G. triacanthos, .luglans nigra (American Walnut— a hand- some, quick - growing species, suitable if planted on the north and west sides), Pyrus Aucuparia (Mountain Ash), P. Sorbus, and P. torminalis, Ginkgo biloba (a good town tree), and Alnus cordata. Forest trees ought to find no place in the garden owing to the lack of space ami the injury they would cause to the adjacent shrubs. The westernmost garden does not admit of much improvement excepting in tliechoiceof the plants with which it is furnished in the spring and summer seasons. Flowering deciduous shrubs and quite low -growing trees might give it distinction where now it has none, and a fountain and water-basin with Water-Lilies would l>e better than the exaggerated sareopliagus-like bed now occupying the central position. When we think of the beauties of the Park Monceau, the Luxembourg, and even of the Tuileries garden in the centre of Paris, it makes us tilush for the shortcomings of the gardens of the metropolis, and wish for something much better antl more satisfying. The latest horror at Charing Cross consists of a number of scrolls (we were about to write scrawls) cut in the not-too-abundant turf, and planted with Ivy pegged down to to the soil. CYPRIPEDIUM X LEEANUM " J. GURNEY Fowler " (see Supplementary Illustration).— The surprises which await the patient hybridist even when flowering a fresh batch of a hybrid previously well known, gives zest to the pursuit, .tnd go far to account for the enthusiasm with which it is followed by all who have seriously t.aken it up. Cypripedium >; Leeanum was one of the earliest of the showy hybrid Orcliids, and the original batch of seedlings displayed great variation, the range of which has been much extended by more recently raised batches, in wliich the best forms of Cypripedium insigne and C. Spicerianum have been used. At the Eoyal Horticultural Society's meeting on .January 24, Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, exhibited Cypripedium .x Leeanum ' J. Gurney Fowler," for which a First-class Certificate was awarded, the variety being considered by far the best of its class yet shown. Our Supplementary Illustration was prepared from the plant then exhibited. The flower, which is of a very thick substance, has the dorsal sepal pure white with a small greenish base, from which ascends a dotted line of purple up the middle, with shorter purple lines on each side. The ground colour of the petals and lip is yellowish-white, suffused over the greater part of the surface with purple, the petals having a sulphur-white margin. Midland Carnation AND Picotee Society. — At the recent Annual Meeting of this Society, Mr. Thos. Humphrets, Curator of the Edgbaston Botanical Gardens, Birmingham, was elected Hon. Secretary and Treasursr. FSBBOA&Y 11, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 89 iRoYAL Horticultural Society. — The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 1-t. and the one hundred and first annual meeting of the Fellows of the Society wiU be held during the afternoon of the same day. The Report of tlie Council for 1904 will be presented, and the President, the Vice-President, the Treasurer, and the Secretary will be elected for tlie ensuing year, together with three members of the Council. Exhibitors are reminded that the shows in the Royal Horticultural Hall will close at 5 P.M. in future during the months of January, February, November and December, and at € -P.M. in the rest of the year. This regu- Jation, which is recorded in the new Arrangements for 1905 just issued, will come into force at the next show, February 14. The Council have just arranged to hold a summer Show in the grounds of Chelsea Hospital on July 11, 12 aiid 13, 1905. •The Schedule for this Show and for the autumn Rose, Fruit and Vegetable Shows will be issued dn about six weeljs' time. The SURVEYORS' Institution. — The next ordinary general meeting will be held in the Xecture Hall of the Institution on Monday, February 13, when the discussion will be resumed -on the papers by Mr. A. R. Stenning (Fellowl .^nd Mr. William Menzies (Fellow), read at the meeting of January 16, entitled respectively "Urban and Rural By-Laws and suggested Amendments," and " Building By-Laws in Rural a)istTicts." LiNNEAN Society of London. — At the meeting on Thursday, February 16, 1905, at "S P.M., the following papers will be read : — 1. " A Revised Classification of Roses," by Mr. J. G. .Baker, F.R.S., F.L.S. 2. "The Botany of the Anglo-German Uganda Boundary Commission," •by Messrs. E. G. Baker, Spencbk Moore, and Dr. A. B. Rendle. Liege. — In connection with the great exhibi- tion in Liege this year there will be held three 'Special horticultural shows. The first is to be -devoted to flowers, from May 7 to 10 ; the second to Roses, from June 25 to 27 ; and the third to jnarket gardening and fruit culture, from -October 20 to 23. The GARDENERS' ROYAL BENEVOLENT INSTI- TUTION. — Mr. Harrt J. Veitch, the Treasurer •of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution, desires us to acknowledge, on his behalf, with 'thanks the receipt of an anonymous donation of .£1 from Leeds in aid of the funds. "The Sweet Pea Annual." — This is the -ofiicial publication of the National Sweet Pea -Society, and is edited by Messrs. Horace Wright and C. H. Curtis. A society with more than a quarter of a hundred vice-presidents and as many ■members of the Executive Committee ought to jTOSsess a considerable dynamic force. The pages before us do indeed give evidence of much industry. The tables show which varieties are most favoured by exhibitors ; thus, out of 107 varieties and out of 1,561 bunches shown in 1904, *' Miss Willmott " was exhibited on sixty-five occa- sions. Black Knight and Dorothy Eckford almost as frequently, and so on through a gradually •diminishing series till we come to the last twenty, which comprise varieties only shown once. A ^similar list gives statistical details relating to tlie number of times a "1st prize" was awarded. In •this list Dorothy Eckford is placed first.f oUowed by -Black Knight, Jeanie Gordon, Lady Grizel Hamil- ton, and Miss Willmott. A very useful enumeration of the varieties according to colour is given. It must be remembered that these figures refer ex- clusively to the results as seen at exhibitions. Even more desirable would be an audit compiled from gardens in various localities and showing what are the best varieties to be grown for general rather •than exhibition purposes, and giving wherever possible the reasons for such selection. It is noteworthy that all our variations of Sweet Peas are derived from one annual species, a native of Sicily, for the record of the Ceylon habitat no doiibt originated in error. The range of variation is therefore the more interesting in that it has not been up to the present aifected by hybridisa- tion, and thus shows what an amount of diversity may be obtained from a pure species. It is noteworthy also that while "seed-sports" are common, true sports or bud - variations have not, so far as we know, been produced. True sports indeed appear never to be produced on annual plants, e.g., the China Aster. In the present annual Mr. Percy Waterer gives some interesting details as to his method of crossing and the results he has obtained. Such investiga- tions are of great value in reference to the Mendelian theory of inheritance, and will, we hope, be strenuously pursued as being of greater intrinsic value than mere exhibiting or prize- winning. There are a number of cultural articles, and others devoted to the decorative uses of the Sweet Pea, so that the devotees of this attractive flower are well provided for. We venture to think they will be better pleased if in another " Annual " the advertisements be conflned to their legitimate place, and not be suffered to intrude in the text. As the Society depends for its income on the annual subscriptions rather than on advertisements there is the less excuse for this " out-of-place " arrangement. Frost in Tunis. — According to the Revue Horticole, the frost on the south side of the Mediterranean from January 1 to 4 was as de- structive as on the north side. Caladiums, Hibiscus, Tecomas suffered severely ; Araucaria excelsa, Ficus elastica, and others were destroyed . The Aleppo Pine, the Date Palm, and some other Palms have not suffered. At Nice, where 9*^ to 10" below zero of Centigrade were experienced, the Carnations were ruined. Roses from Mar- seilles to Genoa are completely destroyed ; so are the Marguerites. Indeed, many of the small cultivators are completely ruined. So unusual are such conditions that the growers had neglected the precautious which, if adopted, would have very materially prevented the disasters. Fruticetum Vilmorinianum. — Under this title M. Maurice de Vilmorin has, with the co-operation of M. Bois, prepared a catalogue of the shrubby and arborescent plants in the Arboretum formed at Les Barres by the first-named botanist. The list is a very full one as it comprises the names of certain species not yet in cultivation at Les Barres. It is enriched with notes and illus- trations, which will be greatly appreciated by students. The collection is very rich in Chinese species, for the elaboration of which M. de Vil- morin had the assistance of the late M. Franchet. The plants are arranged according to their natural orders, but in addition a very full alphabetical index is supplied. The value of such a catalogue becomes more and more apparent with use, but the care with which it has been compiled is obvious at a first glance. Post Office Vagaries. — In these days of perplexity and conflicting statements as to the condition and future prospects of the commerce of the country, and as to the desirabUity of securing preferential treatment from our colonies, it is interesting to see the views taken by our Australian colonies as represented by their postal authorities. The following extract is taken from the Post Ofllce daily list for Monday, January 23, published by authority of His Majesty's Post- master-General : — " ' Australia.' — Exceptional treatment of printed matter, catalogues, price- lists, and other advertising matter are subject to Customs Duty at the rate of 3d. per lb. Single copies are chargeable." To commercial men this regulation must be extremely objectionable ; but if some such tax could 1 be^levied here on the hosts of circulars which reach us, unasked for and undesired, we think the Chancellor of the Exchequer might benefit, whilst certainly the annoyance to individuals would be abated. Eugenia Ugni. — Messrs. Veitch favour us with fruits of Eugenia Ugni gathered from plants in the open-air against a wall in their Combe Wood nursery. The plant fruits commonly in a a greenhouse temperature, and fifty years ago it was the subject of much attention. Messrs. Veitch in 1854 obtained a Silver Banksian Medal for it, and in 1857 the late Sir Wentworth DiLKE offered a prize for it at the great horticul- tural show held in that year. The fruit is pleasantly aromatic in flavour but it has never won a permanent place in public estimation. "Botanical Magazine." — The February number contains coloured illustrations of the following plants : — Yucca guatemalensis. Baker, t. 7997. — An old inhabitant of the Royal Gardens, Kew, and one of the handsomest of the genus, but it is not quite hardy. It is distinguishable in the section to which it belongs by the leaves, which are minutely denticulate, not filiferous. Its identity ' is not yet fully established, for it has no fewer than six synonyms. In any case it is a noble plant when in bloom, and when out of bloom its ap- pearance is striking. The description is from the pen of Mr. Hemsley. Tulipa lini/oUa, Regel, t. 7998. — A species from Turkestan, flowering at Kew in May. The dwarf habit and brilliant crimson flowers render this plant attractive for cultural purposes. It is allied to T. montana, from which it differs, according to Mr. C. H. Wright, who furnishes tlie description, in the segments of the perianth being equal, and not narrowed at the apex. Angelonia integerrima, Sprengel, t. 7999. — An under-shrub, described by Mr. F. A. Skan as having sessile, lanceolate, glabrous leaves and lavender-coloured corollas, like those of a Pent- stemon, and thickly spotted with purplish dots. It is a native of Brazil and Paraguay. It requires greenhouse treatment. Bidbojihyllum cremdatum,^ Rolfe, sp. nov., t. 8000. A species distinguished by its club- shaped inflorescence, crenulate lateral sepals, and ovary with six crenulate wings. The four-sided, two-leaved pseudo-bulbs are produced at intervals on a creeping scaly root-stock. The scaly flower- stalk proceeds from the base of a pseudo-bulb, and is terminated by a recurved, densely many- flowered spike of minute purplish flowers. It is a native of Madagascar, and flowered at Glasnevin. Gnidia polystachya, Bergias, t. 8001. — A pretty greenhouse shrub froml S. Africa. The foliage is minute, densely crowded, leaves linear ; flowers small, yellow, in dense heads at the tips of the branches. It belongs to the Daphne family (Thy- melacea"). Described by Mr. N. E. Brown from a specimen derived from the ^Cambridge Botanic Garden. HOOKER'S " ICONES Plantarum." — This publication, which is edited tor the Bentham Trustees by Sir William T. Thiselton-Dyer, is chiefly devoted to the description and illustration of new and rare plants selected from the Kew Herbarium. The last issued part (January) contains twenty - five; uncoloured illustrations mostly of plants of; botanical interest, among them notes on a valuable set of plants collected in Western Australia byiMr. G. H. Thisklton- Dykr, the son of the, Director of Kew. A good figure of the Chinese Tulip Tree is given (see HEMsLEYJia Qardeners*! Chronicle, November 28, 1903, p. 370), and; seve r al of the plants figured appear worthy the attention of plant-importers.,^ 90 TEE GARD ENER S ' CUR ONI CL E. [Febbuabt II, 1905. Afforestation. — Mr. John F. Mahler, owner of Penissa, Bronygarth, North Wales, has presented to the Denbighshire County Council 50 acres ol^ land for the purpose of demonstrating sound principles of timber planting, and the excellent financial results obtainable therefronj. It is Mr. Mahler's desire that the Council should without delay give practical effect to one of the most important recommendations of the Forestry Committee of the Board of Agriculture. He does not wish to fetter the Council by attaching con- ditions to the gift, beyond stipulating that the land shall be for ever devoted to the illustration of practical forestry. Daily Graphic. Jasminum NUDIFLORUM. — A correspondent of A'ai'f re enquires how it is that the flowers of this winter-flowering shrub get fertilised. From the construction of the flower it would appear to need the assistance of insects; but at the time of flowering there are no insects about. We are tempted to ask whether in this country fertilisa- tion, apart from mere pollination, does take place. Has anyone seen in this country ripe fruits of this species ? For ourselves, we cannot recall having seen the fruits more than once or twice. "One-and-All Gardening." —This cheap and popular publication issues with the present year its tenth annual volume. It contains articles by the Editor (Mr. E. O. Greening), by the late D. T. Fish and Mr. D. S. Fish, and various other gardening authorities. Its contents are useful and practical, but not unmixed with lighter reading, as, for instance, in the paper by Mr. James Scott on "Scenes from Fairyland," where a popular account, with pictures, is given of scenes in the life of an ant, a red-spider, and other minute creatures, studied by the aid of a micro- scope. The other pages are also illustrated. The Annual maybe bad from the Agricultural and Hor- ticultural Association, Ltd., 92, Long Acre, W.C. The Dusseldorf Exhibition. — A Silver- gilt medal and diploma have been received from the Committee in recognition of tbe excellence of the illustrations of Orchids published in the Gardeners' Chronicle. Apples. — The Journal of the Board of Agri- culture for January contains an article on Apple- culture by Mr. Goaring, which is worthy the attention of those who possess orchards. The article deals with the site and soil of the orchard, the preparation of the soil, the protection from wind, the selcstion of the trees, their nature, bush or standard, the methods of planting, pruning, manuring, washing, packing and grading the fruit, and storing. A list of suitable kinds is given, but as it does not state for what special locality the varieties are selected, the list is to that extent incomplete. HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (The Editor docs not hold himself responsible for the opinions expressed bv his Correspoyidcnts. ) SOME effects of THE EARLIER FROSTS AND FOGS.— The earlier frosts seem to have been more than usually severe, accompanied, as some of them were, with densely thick fo^s. With me the following plants have suffered injury : — Golden Privet has been divested of all its leaves ; Escallonias, whether on walls or open borders, have been killed to the ground : Coto- neaster mierophylla, which formed a lovely fringe r mnd the walls of my house, has suffered severely, a'd will have to be cut hard back; C. Simons'ii his lost its leaves, but otherwise is all right; large plants of Berberis Darwini and B. dulcis have been killed to the ground ; varieties of Enonymus have also V een crippled severely. In ths Midland Counties I am afraid we are rather inclined to be prematurely boastful as to the hfr iness of some of our exotic introductions, and an occasional lesscm in this respect may do usno harm. Once I lived in a little house, the walls of ■which I had luxuriantly covered over with varie- ties of the beautiful blue-flowering Ceanothus, but this was far too good to last ; there came a frost which killed the whole to the ground. The house was afterwards covered with Wistaria, Pyracantha, and varieties of Ampelopsis. That fogs accompanied by frosts whilst the plants were still full of sap may have had something to do with the destruction of outdoor plants seems to be strengthened by the account given in the Gar- deners' Chronicle by Mr. Watson (see p. 12) of the mischief wrought amongst the indoor plants at Kew by the thick sulphurous fogs which some- times hang like a funeral p.all over London and its suburban districts. I never happened to be in a London fog, but I am quite willing to believe that it is very much thicker than anything of the kind we have down here. Beyond the difference of the place of origin, there is really no distinction to be drawn between a fog and a cloud ; a fog is simply a cloud resting upon the earth ; a cloud is a fog floating high in the air. The xipper cloud, how- ever, 1 think we are safe to admit, may be much freer from town contamination than the lower one. In reference to fogs and the dangers and mischiefs resulting therefrom, I am pleased to note that Sir Oliver Lodge, Principal of the Uni- versity of Birmingham, is now making a study of those disagreeable and hurtful town fogs, and, thinking the subject may be interesting to some of your readers, 1 herewith quote an extract from the Birmingham Weekly Post: — "Fog Dispellers: Quite a host of representative people have, I am told, attended at the Birmingham University in order to see at work the fog dispeller designed by Sir Oliver Lodge. It is not unlikely that in some places the apparatus will be installed for practical public work. I hear that the capital outlay to provide a number of dispellers at various places in Birmingham, sufficient to effectively remove fog, would cost something like .£2.II0U. After that the outlay would, I am assured, be quite nominal." I have taken the liberty and responsi- bility, on the strength of the above quotation, to send a copy of Jlr. Watson's "Effects of Kecent Fogs on Plants at Kew " (see Gardeners' Chronicle, p. 12) to Sir Oliver Lodge, with the hope that whilst he is meritoriously at work upon a scheme with a view to free towns of smoke and fog, that he may also give consideration as to whether an installation of his " dispellers " might advantageously lie fixed at Kew and other similar valuable botanical establishments, and so prevent any further recurrence of the disaster so amply explained by Mr. Watson. W. Miller, Berksu-ell. ELECTRICITY, PLANTS, AND FOG. — The following letter from Sir Oliver Lodge has been sent to us by Mr. W. Miller, of Berkswell, for publication : — Januari/ 2o, 100.5. The question of the effect on plants of a discharge of electricity into tlie air would be a very interesting suliject for investigation, and it would be quite po.«sible to arrange for it, if, as I suppose, the ordinary electric mains are available at Kew : but that the effect would he beneficial to the plants I cannot guarantee — it might be the reverse. It would probably act directly upon the plants as well as \ipon the fog, and in so far as it acted upon the fog it would have a tendency to deposit it ui)on the plants, which would certainly be injurious. Irrespective of tliat, however, the effect of electrified air in a greenhouse or other enclosure ought to be studied, and perliaps someone will have leisure to take it u|> at some future time. n, ,,.„„ t ' Oliver Lodge. I'niversity, Birmingham. HOW TO TRANSPLANT A MEDIUM-SIZED TREE OR SHRUB. — Assuming that a site has been chosen, a suitable compost prepared (principally leaf- mould), that the soil is in proper workable condi- tion, and a hole has been made that is undoubtedly large enough for the shrub or tree, then put a con- spicuous mark on the " best side " of the specimen to be moved, and tie up the branches carefully with soft rope ; mark a circle — say .3 feet from bole — and outside this dig a trench, using the spade so that the blade is in a line with diameter of bill. When the trench is a little deeper than the lowest roots : carefully use a fork or pointed stick amongst the roots to reduce the ball to rea- sonable dimensions. Use a planting handbarrow to carry the specimen to the new site, trim broken roots if necessary, judge the right depth, put in a layer of compost, place tho tree in right position, spread out by hand the lowest layer of roots, cover with fine soil, then another layer of roots, make- firm by treading, and so on till the operation is finished. If done successfully the tree will appear better than it did before. W. A. Miller. APPLE LANES PRINCE ALBERT. — My expe- rience in our heavy soil is that this variety ' of Apple crops remarkably well, developing fruits of a good size, which keep well tilt March. Grown as a bush or especially as a- half-standard tree, I consider it one of the best kitchen Apples we have. A large fruit-grower for market near here has acres of it planted as- half-standards, and he speaks well of it. In con^ sequence of the trees cropping so freely they should be freciuently sirrtace-fed with suitable manures. Some years since I experimented with several treesof this variety with regard to manures, and found that those trees receiving an anniiali dressing of Thomson's Vine - manure lightly forked-in near the surface succeeded infinitely better than any other, both in the amount of crop,, in quality of fruit, and ingrowth. £. M., Svianmore- Park, Hants. The notes on page 44- from your corre- spondents supporting Apple Lane's Prince Albert on the one hand and Newton Wonder on the other, are both interesting. I find myself that it is difficult to discriminate between their qualities,, as both are excellent croppers; but during the-- seasons 1902 and 1903, when Apples were scarce,. Lane's Prince Albert proved the more reliable-' variety. Although I feel sure that the variety Newton Wonder will be very largely planted in gardens during the next few years, it is more- suitable for growing as standard trees. No votes, from Scotland or AVales were given to this. .\pple at the recent selection, but I have no- doubt it will receive more votes at the next- election. Lane's Prince Albert always keeps- well with me to the end of February or for* an even longer period, while Newton Wonder- will keep to the end of April or the beginning of May. We have a large standard tree of Newton- Wonder at least thirty years old; it would be- interesting to know the origin of this variety. F.J.,. JJroitivich. RIGHT OR LEFT HAND DIGGING. — In all my experience in relation to the use of the spade- in digging, it has been held that the question of right or left hand was determined by the side of the worker on which the spade was- held. If on the right side it was right-handed :. if on the left side it was left-handed. It is' worthy of note, such at least is my experi-- ence again, that 90 per cent, of diggers use the- tool on their right-hand side. AU the same those who habitually work it on the left hand-side do equally good work. It is all a question of use. It is of far greater importance in digging that the- spade be a long one, that its blade be kept as erect- as possible, and that the soil be deeply worked. - If it be so then is good work done. T'. SEED PACKING. — The experience of Kew in. the distribution of seeds to all parts of the world' may be termed exceptionally successful, and it is. often achieved without much trouble. Indeed it is too often the case that seeds received at Kew are rendered worthless by the special methods of" preparation and packing adopted by the senders.. There are, however, certain kinds of seeds whioh- soon lose their vitality if kept dry, and amongst these are all kinds of Oak-acorns. For the last twenty-five years, at least, consignments of acorns- have been sent annually from Kew to South Africa. They used to be packed in beer casks, the acorns- being put in through the bung-hole, and the casks filled up with water ; but an experiment ' made about fifteen years ago proved that this- method was less successful than that of packing the acorns in a wooden ease in layers with moist cocoa-nut fibre between each layer. The report was — "Acorns sent in water a failure, those sent in cocoa-nut fibre have germinated on the way, and we have now 1,200 strong seedlings from them.*'' Last October we had an application for a quan- tity of acorns of Quercus pedunculata, Q. sessili- flora, and Q. Cerris, for St. Vincent. They were packed in damp cocoa-nut fibre in wooden boxes, beginning with a layer of fibre at the bottom, then a layer of acorns, and so on till the boxes were filled. They were labelled " To be placed in a cool place in the hold." The report just T'EBBnABY 11, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 91 a-eceived states that " Theacorns of Quercus pedun- •culata have germinated well; Q. sessiliflora are ■not quite so forward ; and Q. Cerris still less so." I can strongly recommend damp cocoa-nut fibre ^nd wooden boxes for all seeds that perish easily. and that can be conveniently packed in them ; for instance, seeds of Para rubber, Ceara rubber, •and Brazil nuts. For seeds generally I know of nothing better than paper packets and calico 'iDags, and the more moisture there is in the seeds themselves wkeji thus packed the better. Her- metically sealed tins or bottles should never be -used. Jy, TFtrf30?i, Kew. THE APIARY. EARLY PEACHES. — In the " Fruits under ■Glass " Calendar, on p. 55, Mr. F. Jordan states •that Early Alexander and Hale's Early are ■especially adaptable for forcing in pots. It would be interesting to know what results Mr. Jordan gets from these varieties. I have found these t»vo varieties utterly unsuitable for early •forcing. When they did not drop their buds (and the American varieties are notorious offenders vn this respect), they would not swell. The only Peaches I have found that will force are Duchess -of Cornwall and Duke of York. This year I Lave •discarded Alexander and Hale's Early ; they are useless. Cardinal and Early Eivers Nectarines are admirable for early forcing. They seldom -fail to give the best results. I should very much like to see fruit of Alexander and Hale's Early *ipe by the beginning of May. Thos. Toinlinson, iovier House Gardens, Streatham. In reply to the letter printed above I may state that I have found Alexander the best 'early Peach we have tried for very early forcing in pots, and have gathered excellent Peaches •from this variety at the end of April and be- .ainaing of May. Hale's Early is good in 'all respects, but is ten or twelve days later than Alexander, although similar to that variety in .-appearance. AH the American varieties are liable to cast their buds, but both the varieties ^uentioned are good growers, which compensates to some extent for this failure. They require a low temperature during the early stages of •forcing, and above all they should never be allowed to become dry at the roots at any season of the year. This is often an unsuspected cause of bud-dropping and other failures. I have never found any difficulty in getting the fruits to swell ito an average size upou healthy trees. Duke of York and Duchess of Cornwall are, I believe, excellent varieties for very early forcing, and are ino, doubt all Messrs. Eivers represent them to be, but I have not tried them sufficiently yet to trecommend them with any confidence. F, Jordan, Impney Hall Gardens. Droitxvich. CORDYUINE INDIVISA. — On page 66 there appeared an illustration purporting to be *'$pecimens of Cordyline indivisa in Lord 'Jlchester's garden at Abbotsbury, Dorsetshire." It is very evident that these are not Cordyline ■indivisa but C. australis, a species very commonly met with along the south-western coast. This is 'more generally known as Dracaena australis. and a.' representation of what is probably one of the ■finest specimens in England, growing at Pen- ;ferricl?, Cornwall, appeared as a supplementary vllustration on May 18, 1901, Cordyline indivisa is very distinct from C. australis, having pale iglaueous-green leaves fully inches wide and ^bout 4 feet (J inches in length, with orange-red midribs. It is a rare plant, but specimens -exist at Enys, Trewidden, Menabilly and 'Trelissick, and also in some Irish gardens. I believe this species to have flowered but ■once in the British Isles, this having occurred at Tresco Abbey Gardens, Isles of Scilly, in April IX'X, when I had the pleasure of seeing and photographing it. It is a very striking foliage plant and is more tender than C. australis, which is quite hardy in the south-west. On January I'.i, 1901, the supplementary illustration showed a specimen of C. Banksii, growing in Dr. Hamilton Eamsay's garden at Torquay, under the name of Cordyline indivisa. I pointed oirt at the time tha t 0. indivisa was a very different plant, and I have reason to believe that Dr. Ramsay was eventually satisfied that his plant was C. Banksii. These two instances, however, show how little is gener- ally known of Cordyline indivisa vera. S. //'. PiLherberL Feedino. — If beekeepers are to be successful they must attend to feeding. The months of February, March, and April prove the most disastrous to bees. It is useless to commence stimulative feeding, for a short spell of hard frost would almost mean ruin to bees so fed. Further, the period of comparative rest is with us, and good candy made of honey into which pvire cane sugar has been kneaded proves the A VIEW IN THE WINTER GARDEN IN THE STATE BOTANIC GARDEN IN BRUSSELS. The Botanic Garden at Brussels possesses the most beautiful winter garden in Belgium. It contains some of the rarest and oldest Tree Ferns known on the Continent. Amongst these we may mention : — Cyathea Schauschin, hort., with a trunk 6 m. 80 high ; Alsophila phaleolata [f], hort., 5 m. 50 ; two plants of Cyathea insignis, Eaton, 5 m. 25 ; C. medullari?, Swarz., 6 m. 70 ; Dicksonia Fig. 40.- -VIE^W OF A CORNER IN THE WINTER GARDEN OF THE STATE BOTANIC GARDEN, BRUSSELS. best of all foods save except honey. Take some good honey and heat it ; then work in sufficient sugar to make it of the same consistency as clay is when ready for moulding. Slip this under the quilt and cause as little disturbance as possible. Covers and Quilts. — Look to the roofs and see that they are not leaky, for damp causes death to bees. One of the best covers is one of tin ; but if calico be nailed on the top and then well painted this proves very effective. If the quilts have got damp remove them, or dysentery will result from neglect. Keplace with dry quilts, taking care to make them fit at the corner so that no heat can escape from the brood-chamber. A very good quilt may be made of a small bag loosely filled with sawdust or cork- dust, which can often be obtained of any grocer who sells foreign Grapes. Chloris. regalis. Baker, 2 metrts high, having twelve fronds, and 1 metre in circumference of the trunk ; and D. Schiedei. Baker, m. 80 high, fifteen leaves, ,and iii, 90 in circumference. 'Ihe Lou-.e was built in 1878. In its higher part the roof is 60 feet from the ground. In 11103 the collections were enriched by the valuable gift of Count de Kerchove, of Denter- ghem, when he distributed the well-known plants ho had cultivated in the famous Court winter garden at Ghent. The largest specimen of .-Vngi- opteris known is also in the ISrusseU Botanic Garden. The species is A. evecta var. Teysmanni- aua. It has eighteen fronds, and some of them are 12 feet long. The spread of fronds is 21 feet across, and the stem :!2 inches in diameter. Our illustration (fig lu) shows a bed of various species of CypriiJcdium in flower planted together at tUo base of the great mass of Monstera deliciosa, 15 feet high, and measuiiug 12 feet in diameter. 82 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [FEBEUABT 11, i9C3. A TOMATO DISEASE NEW TO ENGLAND. From a basket of Tomatosfor EaU were selected Beveral fruits whicli showed on them a tuatlike, velvety growth of irregular size and greenish- brown colour. At first sight the injury appeared as if caused by the well-known parasitic fungus, Cladosporium fulvum, Cooke, and the correct fungus would have undoubtedly escaped detection if a broad, whitish, delicate margin surrounding the dark spots on the fruits (see fig. 11) had not raised my suspicion, as I had never observed this appearance in connection with the Cladosporium disease. The selected fruits showed various stages of the attack — some were apparently healthy, others showed one or more diseased patches. Some of the fruits were brought to the laboratory and placed under a glass cover, whilst one badly attacked I selected for investigation. The micro- scopic examination showed that the whitish por- tions, which caused my suspicion, were formed by the vegetative, hyaline hyphse or threads of a fungus, which had reached its mature stage in the centre of the spots, where the numerous ripe conidiaor spores of the fungus produced the dark colouration of the spots. The fungus resembled closely a disease of Potatos known in America as " Early blight," which is caused by Macrosporium Solani. The history of this fungus is as yet insufficiently known, as it is said to undergo various changes in its development, representing at times a fungus described as Alternaria Solani by Prof. Sorauer (Zeitschrjft der Pflanzenkrankheiten, 1896, vol. iii., p. 1). Prof. Sorauer obtained specimens of the " Early blight disease " from America in 1890, conducted a series of interesting experiments, and succeeded in infecting portions of Tomato leaves with it. From the illustration and descrip- tion given, the fungus now under consideration appears to be the same as that investigated by this distinguished fimgologist. However, one differ- ence should be pointed out. The conidiophores of Alternaria are said to be of the same colour (darkish-brown) as the spores of the fungus ; in this case the hyphos and conidiophores were hyaline. That peculiarity would bring the position of the fungus nearer the genus Polydesmus. The spores of the fungus are of various shapes and sizes — long, narrow clubs varying to shorter, broad-based clubs. They are muriform and have distinct thick-walled divisions of varying number (see fig. 42). They are borne in chains on the ends of the colourless conidiophores, btit were also found springing from the sides of them (see fig. 42, b). The presence of the longitudinal sections in the spores distinguishes the fimgus from Polydesmus, which is said to differ from Alternaria only in the spores having no longitudinal sections, a character which I have never found to exist, and I am consequently of the opinion that the separation of Polydesmus from Alternaria is not justified, and that the two genera are the same, Alternaria being the fungus first described. The difference in the colour of the conidiophores of the fungus here dealt with, and of Alternaria described elsewhere, is not sufficient to induce^me to think that it is distinct from the fungus of Professor Sorauer, Alternaria Solani, as they agree in every other raspect. It was interesting to observe the rapid spread of the fungus on the fruits kept under cover in ordinary room-temperature. Within twenty-four hours every fruit was more or less covered with the whitish mycelium, showing that the spores were actively germinating and reproducing the disease. After thirty-six hours the growth had become more dense and its colour had changed to a greenish hue. At this stage the conidio- phores bore many, though still immature spores, ■whilst full maturity was attained forty-eight hours after placing the frviits under cover. From this observation it will he seen what a pest this fungus may prove to Tomato growers. They must combat the fungus wherever it is noticed, getting in the first instance rid of all infected plants and spraying the remaining ones and the soil with Bordeaux - mixture, which if repeated should effectually prevent the spread of an attack by this fungus into an epidemic. Bacterial Disease. In conclusion I may refer to a bacterial disease which I have observed frequently on Tomato fruits. Fig. 41.— diseased tomato. i,Tim-lhl,iU ..udl/.i; 61.1.) ALTERNARIA SOLAM. A— Fanpus magnified 235 x, showing t-olourless liyplue and dark spores borne in chains. B— Chain of spores enlarged 500 x, sliowiug the irregular cell divisions. .y&o X.3.000 Fig. 13.— bactehiosis of tomato. A— Groups of Bacteria, enlarged 750 x . B— Porliou of .a group, enlarged 3000 x. Bacterial diseases of plants, as for instance gummosis of Cherry-trees and of Cucumbers, &c., are by no means of rare occurrence, but I have not been able to discover any description of a similar attack on Tomatos. I may here remark that at the beginning of this bacterial disease no mycelial fungus growth whatever was present, and I am convinced that in this case the bacteria were the primary cause of the injury. The ripe fruits became attacked, showing roundish patches somewhat paler in colour than the rest of the- fruit and slightly depressed. In this stage aia attack is difficult to detect, but soon the spots> become vitreous, and on touch feel sottish and^ pulpy. At a later stage the epidermis is slightly raised as if an air bubble had developed under- neath it, which in my opinion is undoubtedly due to the development of certain gases accom- panying the putrefaction of vegetable (and animal) tissues destroyed by bacteria. Soon now the epidermis bursts and a slimy pulp oozes out containing myriads of bacteria, which form' small groups of very fine thread-like chains (see- fig. 43) . Thus the disease appears like gummosis- of Cucumbers, and I propose to call it " Bac- teriosis of Tomatos " in future. In this stage mycelial fungi of semi-parasitic nature, like Botrytis, &c., soon make their appearance. As a bacterial disease of thia- description is, I presume, only visible to a keen observer, and in most cases altogether- escapes notice, the true parasitic nature o£ such secondary mycelial fungi must be doubted or remain at least to be proved by successful* inoculation experiments. Nothing has yet beecv determined as to how best to deal with this malady, but all fruits so attacked must be got rid of. Whether changing the conditions of- culture or temperature would have the desired; effect must be proved by further experiments- Hans Th. Giissow, Upper Norwood. LAW NOTE. PUfiCHASE OF ORCHIDS FROM ILLUSTRATIONS. The Belgian Tribunal of Commerce is a& present sitting in judgment on a case which in- terests Orchid-lovers, and particularly English- Orchid-growers, who anxiously await the final deci- sion. An English amateur bought from a firm neat Brussels five small plants for 30,000 francs (about jei,200), which were alleged to be rare v.arieties of Odontoglossum crispum. The plants were not in flower at the time of purchase, and, according to general custom, the contract was made on the strength of certain water-colour drawings pur- porting to be correct reproductions of the five plants when in flower. In due course the plaintiff found that the flowers of the Orchids he had bought had none of the superior qualities re- presented by the water-colour drawings, which, formed the basis of this contract. The English amateur, through his counsel (M. Maurice Prison), asted the Tribunal to- decree the cancellation of the contract, alleging the non-existence of the rare qualities and the superior points which were asserted to exist by the seller at the time of the purchase. He (tho amateur) considers that the Orchids sold to him were not worth a tenth part of the price paid,, and alleges that the water - colour drawings which were submitted to him were not truthful reproductions, but merely fancy pictures. M. Wauwermans, for the defendant, pleaded that the Orchids might have teen changed, if not by the plaintiff, at least by one of his staff, and that, under the circumstances, it is impos- sible to admit a cancellation of a sale regularly entered into by both parties. We shall publish the judgment in due course. Extract from " L'EtoiU Beige" January 24, 1905. ©bituarp. Dr. Wilhelm Schwacke.— The death of this gentleman on December tl, 1904, is an- nounced. He was Professor of Botany at Ouro Preto (Minaes Geraes). He had explored the provinces of Rio Janeiro, St. Catherine, Minaes Geraes, and the valley of the Amazon, and enriched European herbaria with specimens from those regions. FEBBaARY 11, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 93 SOCIETIES, LINNEAN— General Meeting. Jancauy lit.— Prof AV. A. Herdmax, F.R.S., Prcsi- deut, in the C'hair. Mrs. Catherine Crisp, Mrs. Constance Percy SlaJen, Miss Ellen Ann Willmott, Miss Emma Louisa Turner, Mrs. Mar^' Anne Stebljlng, Miss Sarah Marianne Silver, Mrs. Lilian Jane Veley, Miss Margaret Benson, Miss Annie Lorrain Smith, Miss Gulielma Lister, and Miss Ethel Sargant were admitted Fellows. Mr. Thomas Vere Hodgson, and Miss Viola Annette Latham, M.D., were proposed as Fellows. Mr. Eardley Wilmot Blom- field Holt and Jliss Emilia Frances Noel were elected Fellows. The Rev. T. R. R. Stebbing exhibited and explained sjieciniens of Crustacea, in various ways remarkable for structure, habits, habitat, or colouring, collected by various naturalists. Dr. Augustine Henry, F.L.S., gave a discourse on Botanical Collecting. The actual methods were briefly alluded to, stress being laid on truthful labelling of the specimens at the moment of collection, instead of months afterwards, when identical numbers were ofteTi given to plants of different provenance. With the aid of nearly fifty lantern-slides, he gave illustrations uf his travels in China, demonstrating that the popular idea of that country as one vast rice-field was fallaciout^, as it mainly consisted of mountain ranges cut up by deep valleys. In some of the slides the home of tlTc wild forms of the Chrysanthemum, Primula sinensis, &c., were shown ; and the lecturer alluded to the early history of horticulture in China, stating that the tir-it botanical garden there was made 111 B.C. in Shensi. plants from subtropical regions, as the Banana, Areca Palm, and Orange, being introduced. Other slides showed typical forms of subtropical deciduous and ever- green trees ; and the occurrence of epiphytes and lianes in vast numbers was mentioned. Referring to the statements in the text-books Dr. Henry saicl that the assertion that epiphytes of higher types than Ferns do not occur in Europe is too sweeping, as in the moist warm climate of Ireland, in Wicklow Cotyledon Umbilicus covers the trunk and branches of the Alder, while Rhododendrons in two cases were seen by him growing on the bark of Pinus sylvestris; and Pyrus Aucuparia seems to be a true epiplivte in various parts of Scotland and Wales. Dr. Henry alluded to "mimicry" in plants, in the case of two species of Lysimachia (a protomorphic genus in China), one of which mimicked Paris quadrifolia, with foiu- leaves, while the other recalled another species of Paris with ten to twelve leaves. He referred also to the extra- ordinary richness of species on calcareous soils as com- pared with other soils, a fact constantly seen in China, and well marked also in France, and asked for some explanation. In China, as elsewhere, pure woods were rare, being only formed by a few Conifers, like Abies Fargesii at high altitudes in Hupeh, Cupressus fune- bris in the same province at lower levels (the home of the Reeves's Pheasant), Pinus Massoniana (almost everywhere in the central and southern provinces), other species of Pinus more local ; also certain species of Oak widely distributed, and Alnus nepalensis in Yunnan. The explanation of the occurrence of pure forests was also a subject not completely understood — e.g., in this country Ash seeded freely, and in some places for a time looked as if it would grow into a pure wood ; but apparently pure forests of Ash only occurred on extremely rich soil in some districts in Kussia. With regard to botanical collecting, three stages had occurred. At an early period plants were collected to be merely named and classified ; in fact, thev were treated like postage stamps. The second period began with Sir Joseph Hooker, who did much to promote and develop the study of the geographical distribu- tion of plants. The third period, that of the present day, was a step forward, in that attention should be paid to the plants themselves as social organisms, living in harmony and yet in competi- tion together; and Dr. Henry urged that the time had come when the hunt for new species should cease to be the sole aim of the collector, and the study of the known si»ecies be taken in hand in their living conditions. He advocated map-making of small areas, census-taking, measurements, records of natural seedlings, soil, shade, &c. ; and, to illustrate this plan, showed a series of slides taken in France, the idea of which was to explain how the commoner species of trees behaved at different altitudes and on different soils. These slides included Beech, Spruce, Pinus Cembra, Pinus montana (which, according to Dr. Henry, often attains 80 feet in height, and thrives on peat-mosses and on rocky soil so thick with boulders that practically no vegetation existed except this harch Pine), Larch, Quercus sessiliflora and pedunculata. He pointed ovtt that the two last-mentioned species differed as to soil and situation, and complained that their areas had never been mapped out in England. The causes favouring the existence of the two verv different forms of the common Birch were unknown, jet in Scotland this problem could easily be attacked. The systematic botanists had on Iv asked from cul- ectors specimens with leaves, fiowers, and fruit, material to be named and classified ; yet in trees and shrubs the winter and the seedling stages were also of extreme interest. Elm seedlings and seedlings showing the difference between the two common Oaks were not to be found in the national herbaria, and are not described in books. Dr. Henry also referred to the small amount of work that had been done in regard to peatmosses, and the great importance of studying the ancient forests, of which these mosses were, to put it broadly, the ruins. He mentioned extraordinary growth of trees in deep peat-mosses of the present day, as Alder averaging 'Jo feet ; even the Oak also occurred. Owing to the small amount of attention that had been paid to scientific forestry in this country, trees had met with scanty recognition from the axithors of local floras ; and in some cases species (as the Arbutus) were put down as shrubs, though there was plain evidence that they attained the size and fulfilleil the functions of forest trees. February 2.— Prof. W. A. Herdman, F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr. Eardley Wilmot Blomfield Holt, Miss Emilia Frances Noel, Miss Alice Laiua Embleton, Mr. AVilliam James Tutcher, and Mr. Stafford Edwin Chandler were admitted Fellows. Miss Emily Mary Berridge, B.Sc. (Loud.), Mr. Frederick Hugh Capron, B.A. (Oxon.), Miss Helen Charlotte Isabella Frastr, B.Sc. (Lond.), and Miss Dorothea Frances Matilda Pertz were pro- posed as Fellows. Miss Lilian Suzette Gibbs, Mrs. Henderina Victoria Scott, Mr. Charles Blades Cover- dale Storey, and Mr. Richard Henry Yapp, M.A. (Cantab.), were severally balloted for and elected Fellows. The President having announced that the Council had approached Her Majesty the Queen with the view of obtaining Her Majesty's consent to become an honorary member under the provisions of the Supple- mental Charter and new Bye laws, read the following letter from the Queen's Private Secretary :- - Buckingham Palace, January 27, P.t05. Sir, — I have had the honour of submitting your letter and Reports to the Queen. I am commanded to inform you that Her Majesty will be pleased to comply with your request to become an Honorary Member of the Linnean Society. (Signed) Sidney Greville. B. Daypon Jackson, Esq., Gen. Secretary. The President then read the letter which he proposed to send in consequence of the foregoing :-— To the Queens Most Excellent Majcsii/. Madam,— I have the honour to state that the gracious expression of Your Majesty's wish to become an Honorary Jlember of this Society was duly com- municated to the General Meeting of the Linnean Society of London held yesterday at Burlington House, and was received with acclamation, the Fellows all upstanding in their places. The Roll of the Society' will be submitted for signature at Your Majesty's pleasure. I remain, Madam, with the deepest respect, Your Majesty's most dutifid and most obedient Servant, (Signed) AVili.iam A. Herdman, President, Linnean Society of London. The first papei was by Mr. W. J. Tutcrer, F.L.S., entitled "Descriptions of some new Species and Notes on other Chinese Plants." The species in question had been found on the island of Hongkong, with one from Kowloon, and one from Wei hai-wei. He pointed out that the island lies just within the tropics, about 22" N. and 114^ E. from Greenwich ; it consists of irregular granite mountain-ridges, the liighest peak being Mount Victoria, 1,8IJ0 feet. The average rainfall is 85 inches, most of which falls during the S.W. monsoon. The hills are broken up by ravines in which the vegetation is richest, but most of the ^'egetation which strikes the eye is due to the Afforestation Department, which has planted Pinvis Massoniana in large numbers. Bentham's Flora Hoivikomii luis in 1801 enume- rated 1,053 species from the island, 159 of which had not at that time been foimd elsewhese, but at tte present time only about 50 of these remain peculiar to the island. The flora as now known amounts to about 1.400 species, of which 100 are regarded as endemic, though probably many will be found iiiitives of the mainland. Botanising is difficult, as the collector has to hack his way througli Bamboo and shrubs amongst the boulders. Ferns amount to H.Ht, grasses about as inany ; Lcguminobce nearly as many ; between 70 and SO Oyperaceie ; Composititr over ()0, and Orchids (iO. Quercus Eyrei, first foimd by Captain Champion, has not been collected by any recent collector till the author refoinul it in quantity-. The luxuriance usually associatetl with tropical vegetation is here wanting, due to the poverty of the soil, which is almost exclusively disintegrated granite. The new territory leased to Great Britain in 18118 has an area of about 30O square miles, tliat is, ten times the area of Hongkiuig. Lantao is an island resembling Hongkong, but its highest peak is 13,050 feet, with many well-wooded ravines, and when explored will doubtless prove rich in plants. BRITISH GARDENERS' ASSOCIATION. On January 28, Dr. »;ioves, J. P., presided at a meeting of the Isle of Wight Horticultural Association at Warburton's Hotel, Newport, at wliich Mr. R. Hooi'ER Pearson explained the aims and objects of the Association, with the view to the formation of a branch in the Island. Mr. Pearson referred to the difficulties which had in former years prevented cooperation among gar- deners, and said those difficulties had now largely been removed. Though there had been immense progress in gardening there had been no progress in the direction of the amelioration of the material circumstances of the gardener's life. The Association would help every gardener to take a greater interest in his calling, as it existed for improving the status of horticulture and the gardener. Every member of the Association must lie a man who had his profession at heart, prepared to give all the attention possible to make himself efficient, and the executive of the Associa- tion, with the confidence of the gardeners of the country, would then be able to exert sufficient moral force and influence to ensure that the status and remuneration of the gardener generally should be improved. The Association wouhl be able to assist in the transfer of young gardeners from one place to another and to help in obtaining employment for gardeners ; and the guarantee of efficiency implied by membership of the Association would be beneficial to employers. The Association would impress upon head gardeners the great impor- tance of taking a greater interest in the training of their apprentices, so as to ensure a worthy generation of gardeners to follow them. He pointed to the fact that gardening authorities and large employers of gardeners, including Lord Windsor, nurserymen, and others, were hearty and liberal supporters of the Association, which had also the good wishes of Mr. Chamberlain and the President of the Board of Agri- culture. Lord Onslow. Mr. C. H. Snook. West Hill Gardens, Shanklin, proposed that a branch of the British Gardeners" Association be formed in the Island. This was carried unanimously. On the proposition of Mr. A. KiME, seconded by Dr. Groves. Mr. Snook was elected secretary of the branch. Ink of Whtht Count}/ Press, Fchruarij 4, 1905. — — A meeting in connection with the above Society was held at Wylam-on-Tyne on February 2. members from several local gardeneis' societies attending. The meeting was addressed by Mr. W. Hall, Superintendent of Parks, kc, Simderland, and by some other Sunder- land ipembers of the Association, their exposition of the benefits to be derived from co-operation meeting ^ith a very cordial reception. NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM. ANNUAL MEETING. pEERUART O.^The annual General ^Meeting of the members of this Society was held at Carr's Restaurant, Strand, on the above date, when a moderately large number of Hup]iorters assembled. Much satisfaction was evidenced by the company in seeing the Secretary, M^h R. Dean, present again among them. Although still indis]»osed, he was svilticiently recovered to take his accustomed place at the proceedings. Much regret was however felt that the President, Mr. Shea, was unable to be present owing to a severe attack of influenza. Mr. T. Bevan was thereupon unanimously voted to the chair. The Annual Rei)ort was submitted to the Fellows, from which wo extract the following paragraphs : — Extracts from the Report of the Executive Committee. "Three exhibitions were held at the Crystal Palace in iy04. At the October show the classes for early Chrysanthemums did not fill so well as could be desired. The November show was a very great improvement upon that of ltl03, both in respect to the site of the exhibition and the number of entries. The December show suffered somewhat fron\ the damp foggy weather which prevailed at the time ; still the exhibition was a commendable one for so late in the season, and distinctly better than that of the previous December. Arrangements have been made with the Crystal Palace Company for three exhibitions to take place at Sydenham in " tlie present year. The dates are October 4 and 5, November 1, 2, and 3, and December (j and 7. The experiment of holding an exhibition of market Chrysanthemums at Essex Hall, on December 14, proved a distinct and gratifying success, and excellent collections were staged, while the novelty of the exhibition attracted a good deal of public interest. The growers of market varieties for Covent Garden and the salesmen guve their warm and vnluablo support to the show. A satisfactory sum was raised M THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLK [Eebruabt U, 1905. by Bpecial -subaeriptiona for the prizes, and th&^ cost to the Sdcifety" has bee n repaid. The advisability of holding a show of m % ket Chrysanthemums is under oonsid&ration. During the year six meetings of the Floral Committee were' held, three at Essex Hall and three at the Ory^al I'alace, and twenty-five First-class Certificates weie awarded. The usual number of meetings will also be held in the present year. Tlie annual outiug in July last took the form of a visit to the princely dumain of Waddesdon Manor, by th6 kind perraissson of Miss Alice de Rothschild. The annual dinner, presided over by the President, took place at the Holborn Restaurant on November 27. Over a hundred attended. The financial position of the Society is satisfactory, notwithstanding that upwards of i:50 additional was given iu' prizes at the November show as compared with lil{t;{. The reserve fund amounts to £117'16s.1W., iillD of which is on de[)OSit. Arrangements have been made for holding a con- ference meeting on early Chrysanthemums in connection with the October show at the Crystal Palace. fu May last the Royal Horticultural Society of Piedmont celebrated the fiftieth year of its existence by holding a great [ntemational Show in Turin. A defmtation consisting of Mi . T. Bcvan and Mr. Hai-man Payne attended on behalf of the National Chrysanthe- mnrn Society and were most cordially entertained, it being particularly emi>hasized that this was the first time an English horticultural society had ever been reyjrcsented at such a show in Italy."' [?] The tilecretary pointed out the very serious decline that is taking place in the matter of receipts from members' subscriptions, and urged all to support him to alleviate this by prompt payment, and where passible hj the introduction of new members to fill the ratiks of those who have fallen out. Since the year 18117 there has l>een a steady drop in tliis direction, while as many as 104 members were in arrears as recently as December 31. The Report and Balance-sheet, on the proposition of Mr. Witty, was carried unanimously, a vote of thanks being awarded the Auditors. Election of Officers. Mr. Witty proposed the election of Mr. I'has,. E. Shea to 'the Presidency for the coming year, and that he be accorded a hearty vote of thanks for presenting Ins specialprize of £5 .'j,«. and for presiding at the Annual Dinner, with an expression of regret at the circum- stances which compelled his absence that evening. Mr. Taylor was elected Treasurer, anil Mr. Foster Chairman of Committees, with Mr. J. H. Witty Vice Chairman. Mr. C. Harman Payne was re-elected Hon. Foreign Corresponding Secretarv, a i)ost which ho has held since 1K88. Mr. Such proposed Mr. R. Dean as Secretary for the coming year, the proposition being received with great cordiah'ty. Mr. Dean, in thanking the members for their appreciation of his past services, assured them that although now past his seventy-fifth birthday he would sstill continue to devote his best sei vices to the interests of the Society. One third of the members constitutuig the Com- mittee' retire annually, and these, with the resignation of Messrs. H. J. Jones and J. W. Wilkinson and another, caused thirteen vacancies, which were filled by the election of the whole of the outgoing membors, with the addition of Messrs. C. .1. EUis, W. Harrison, and J. Crreen. The resolution to present tlie honorary fellowship of the Society to Mr. Eallantyne caused some disoussion as to the advisability of conferring a diploma ral Committee will also be the Classification and Catalogue Committee. Rule XVI., relating to the Classification Committer was deleted, and the following words added to Rule VI. : " Honorary Follows shall be admitted to such of the privileges of the Society 071 «wt'7( tcr'itis as the Excci'tire Comiuittcc way from time to tiinc- determine. ^^ Six now members were elected, and two Societies affiliated to the Society. Mr. C. Harman Payne drew attention to the coming horticultural exhibition iu Paris, and spoke of the advisability of the Society being rejjresented. The proposition was favourably received, and Mr. Payne was deputed to receive names of those who woidd form part of the deputation, and who would be willing to pay their own expenses. SCHEDULES RECEIVED. Toi«irTAV DrsTiiicT Gardeners' Association'.s Spriug Flower Sliow. to be held at the B;ith Saloons, on Tlim-s- day, Miirch 30, l^O.'S; and Olirysauthonuun Show, to he lieid ou Thursday, Novumher i', l;tur>. BOUOIICIH OF REHiA'I'R COTTAGE GARDEN AND HO-RTI- cuLTuitAi. Society's Show at Stone House, Reigate, on Wednesday, July 12, 1905. GARDENERS' DERATING SOCIETIES. CRAWLEY GARDENERS" MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT- —At the meeting ol the memljers of this Association on January 17, Mr, R. H. Holton presiding, an interesting paper was read by Mr. J. Martin, gr. to Mr. P. Saillard, Buchan Hill, on "Maluiaison Carnations." Mr. Martin said a span-roofed house with plenty of side and top ventilation was be&t suited to the gi-owtli of the Mal- maison. He gave his methods of treating the plant from the time of "'layering" to the time of blooming, mentioned the kind of compost avIucIi he had found most suitable, and the proper limes for syringing and applying water. He advised that the layers should not be pegged too closely together, or, when rooted, they would Iteconie drawn and, as a consequence, be weak and partly spoiled. He also advocated that loam and leaf-mould intended for the culture of the Malmaisou should \)Q. well burnt, so as to destroy wire-worm and other troublesome pests. When potted for blooming plenty of air is necessary for the plants to keep them free from diseases commonly known as "rust 'and "spot." The shading of the blossoms, staking and feeding, and other essential work for the welfare of the plants were dealt with by Mr. Martin, and names of the best varie- ties were given, .is well as the various recipes for the prevention and extermination of diseases and insect pests. CHELMSFORD AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.— At the weekly meeting on Friday, February 3, under the presidency of Mr. Rixon, Mr. C. Simpson, St. John's Nurseries, Chelmsford, gave a paper on "Grapes." A brief historical sketch of the Grape was given by way of introduction. The lecturer referred to the life-period of the Grape, and its capability of fruiting when 4uu years of age. The speaker treated of most cultural iwints in detail, and in speaking of " shanking " thought thi.'^ was due to detective borders or over- cropping, while 'scalding" was caused from insuf- ficient ventilation. A discussion followed, .v. J/. C. DORCHESTER AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.-The annual meeting of this Society was held ou Monday, January 30. The chair was taken l)y Mr. E. A. C. Dare, who was suppoi'ted by the Hon." Secretary (Mr. E. Nutting). The Annual Report showed that the meetings had been well attended. The Balance-sheet showed a net balance to the Society's credit of £it As. 9d. The election of othcer.s forthe ensuing year then took plnce. Captain Dymond was re-elected President. The Vice- Presidents were re-elected in a body, and the names ol the Mayor (Mr. J. W. Fudge) aud Captain E. A. Pope were added to the list. The Couiuuttee were al.so elected, Messrs. Biggs, Dare, and Sparrow filling the vacancies caused by three retiiiug members. Mr. Nutting was elected to thedual offices of Hon. Secretary and Treasurer. REDHILL, REIGATE. AND DISTRICT GARDENERS --This Society held its usual fortnlL.'litIy nu'ctinp on January 31, under the prcsideury uf Mr. \V. P. Bound. Mr. Flyman, of Wye College, lectured on "Mjmures and their Eflects on Plants." This was the second of the series, and dealt chiefly mth nitrates, phosphates, and nitrogen, all of which are vei-y essential in the development of plants. LIVERPOOL HORTICULTURAL.-The third meeting of the above Society was held on Saturday, February 4, Mr. Foster iu the chair. Mr. Robert Ncwstead de- livered a most interesting paper on " The Currant-bud Mite, its History, and the various suggested Remedies.'* The pest first originated in North Britain sonic years ago, and has since travelled almost all over the kingdom. In order to realise how minute this pest is, the number of them found ou investigation in a single bud has been estimated at from 2.748 to ;3,0(M.t. Seen under the microscope, they arc of a glassy -white appearance. They multiply veiy rapidly from Marcli till August. The lecturer spoke of experiments he has tried in order to con. bat thorn, but up to the present notldng has proved successful. .7. P. READING AND DISTRICT GARDENERS". — The Annual Report of this flourishing Society records continued prosperity, a fact for which the members must he congratulated. The membcrshi]) has now- increased to 26.3, including an addition of thirteen during the past year. The meetings have been well attended, the average attendance being one hundred. TIr- summer outings proved a great success, and were events of considerable interest. The Balance-sheet records a .satisfactory financial state, there being a credit balance ou the year's working ot £28 8.f. Irf. The first meeting held in the new year took place at the Abbey Cafe on January .30, Mr. \V. J. Towns- end presiding over a large attendance of members. The subject for the evening was "Winter Vegetables and Salads," given by Mi". J. Gibson, the well known vegetable exhibitor. The subject was treated in a most practical manner, and useful advice was given as to the keeping and storing of the various vegetables touched upon, including Brussels-Sprouts, Savoys, Broccoli, Kale. Cabbage, Rosette Colewort, Kohl Rabi. Arti- chokes, Stachys tuberifera, Salsaly, Scorzonera, Celery, Celeriac, LeeLs. Spinach, Parsley. Turnips, Swedes, Beans, Rhubarb, Seakale, Mushrooms, Toniatos, Po- tatos. Lettuce, Endive. Chicory, Radishes, itc. A dis- cussion followed. There were several excellent ex- rdbits, incJuding a basket of salads comprising Lettuce. Endive. Chicory, and Dandelion. Thirteen new members were elected. NORTH FERRIBY GARDENERS'.-The fortnightly meeting of the above Society was held on Wednesday, February 1st, under the presidency of Mr. Burton. Mr. E. Wright, The Gardens, Thwaite House, Cottingham, read a paper on "Cyclamens." The essayist, who dealt with his subject iu a practical manner, recommended raising the plants each year from seed. Plants raised ironi seed sown in October should flower the following year at about Christmas. The essay was much appre- ciated by the members, and evoked a good discussion. EGHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.— A meeting of the above Society was held ou the 1st inst. The evening was devoted to discussions on gardening subjects generally. Amongst other questions discussed was that of the 'best varieties of Peas. Potatos, ifcc, suitable for growing in the district, of the cause and remedies for the scab ou Potatos, and of the advisability of removing the pseudo-bulbs from some varieties of Dendrobiunis iu order to enhance the flowers for cut flower decoration. An unanimous vote was passed in favour cf the amalgamation of Gardeners' Mutual Improvement Associations forthe exchange of lecturers, CHESTER PAXTON.— A meeting of the above So- ciety was held at the Grosvenor Museum on Saturday, February 4, when Mr. N. F. Barnes, Eaton Gardens, read a paper on "Garden Design." the essay being illustrated by a scries of lantern-slides. The history of garden design and garden architecture was traced from early times, the styles of many of the different periods being well illustrated by the pictures shown on the screen. It was shown tliat These styles varied very much in character, aud some at least had evidently been influenced by the particular style of house archi- tecture in vogue at the same time. Not the least interesting of the pictures were those of the new Dutch garden at Eaton, which was planned by and laid out under the supeiwision of Mr. Barnes. An interesting discussion followed. KINGSTON GARDENERS".-At the meeting of this Society, Iiild ou February ?.. the Vice-President. F. G. Shipway, Kt-ti.. gave a very instructive paper on "Apple Culture," chiefly from an an amateur's point of view, with detailed advice for the cultivation of Apples in small gardens, including the most suitable stocks for grafting purposes, the best forms of trees to plant, the most suitablevarieties. suitable roils aud manures, and the diseases and pests attacking the Apple, with the best remedies for the same. The lecturer gave the following selection of twelve dessert and of twelve culinaiy Apples as being suitable varieties to grow :— Dessert: Beauty of Bath. Ii-ish Peach, Devonshire Quarrenden, Duchess of Oldenburgh, Lady Sudeley, Worcester Pearmain. Cox's Oraupe Pipi>in. King of the Pippins, Alfriston, Braddiek's Nonpareil. Court Peudu Plat, and Stunner Pippin. Culinary: Early Victoria, Ecklinville SctdlinL'. Lord Derby, Newton Wonder, Lanes Prince Albeit, WarucrV King, Wellington, New Hawthorndcn, Golden Noble, Beauty of Kent, Sturmer Pippin. ;ind Bramlcy's Seedling. A collection of twenly- tour di.•^hes of fine and well-preserved Apples came from Mr. Alderman, Morden Hall Gai'deus. /. T. B. THE WEAT HER. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens at Wisley, Surrey. Height above sea - level 150 feet. The following are the "mean" readings for the week ending February 4, 1905. "Z, Tempeha- Temperature o TTJHEOFTHB 1908. OF THE AlE. Ot H S01Lat9A.M. At9A.M. i & O, P< S 1 n g -^ Q ^ « k ;t g » «o5 Ss5 o o 5; o ii 3 ■-i "m 4^ rH cti % 1 09 O < < < u Sf Si- bi) g ^ bi] i lir. mln. TS ■o 's •a 13 •a Tot Means 40 38 48 36 28 38 39 41 0-01 4 34 THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS. Tliixe Vera Warm. NigUs.—The present warm period has now lasted eleven days, during whicli there has not occurred a single unseasonably cold day or uiglit. On the warmest day the tonperaturo in the shade rose to 65', and on three nights the exposed thermometer did not fall lower than 40"— which is 14° in excess of tlie average for a February uight. The ground temperatures are rising, and at the present time the readiug at 3 feet deep is a)iout 2" warmer, aud at 1 foot deep about 4 warmer tlian is scasouablc. There occurred a little rain on two nights during the week, but virtually there has been no rain worth mentioning for three weeks The drainage through both per<'olation gauges lias been gradually decreasing, and the daily measurements ai-e now very small. The sun shone on an average for three hours a day during the week, or for an hour a day longer th.an is usual at this season. The winds have been, as a rule, high, hut in no hour did the mean velocity exceed 18 miles— direction W.N. W. Thciivcrage amount of moisture in the air at 3 o'clock in the after- noon was 6 per cent, less than is seasonable. The doutile Snowdrop was first iu llowcr in ray garden ou the 6th— which is two days earlier than its avemgo date of Howering iu the same spot during the last eighteen years. JANUARY. A RenxarkaUy Sunny .Tnimnry. — The temperature during the month varied a good deal from week to Febetjaky U, 190.".. THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 95 week, but taken as a ^vholc it was slightly wnnner tli:iu the average. Although rather warm, tlicre lias hern during the last eight years only one other January in which Uie mean temperature has been as low. On tlie warmest day the temperature rose to 53% and on the coldest night the exposed thermometer registered 15'^ of frost— l>otli liigh extremes for the month. Raiu or snow foil on ouly nine days, seveu of these being in tlie first half of the month, and to tlte total depth of less than Ifincli, or about half the January average. Ou two days the ground was covered for a sliort time with snow to the deptli of half aa inch. The sun shoue on au avei'^ge for two and a half hours a day, or for an hour a day longer than usual, making tliis the sunniest January of which I liave here any record. The wind was ou the whole ab()ut scasouable in strength, and at no time exceeded 21 miles an hour; direction W.N.W. The air remained sinLi;ulaiiy dry, in fact drier than in any previous January, the mean amount of moisture iu it falling short of the average by as much as 8 per cent . Our XJNDERfiROUND Water Supply. Since the winter half of the drainage year began in October every month has been more or less dry. The total dc,ficiency in rainfall for those four months i^ 4} inches, equivalent to a. loss on each acre in this district of 107,200 gallons. Last year at the same time the amount of rain was to nearly the same extent iu excess of the average. E. M., Berkhampsiead, February 7, 1905. [For actual temperature and condition of barometer o' titne of going to Press, seep. 88.] Cut Flowers, &c. ; Average Wholesale Prices. MARKETS. COVENT GARDEN, February K. (We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined reports. They are furnished to us regularly every Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the prin- cipal salesmen, who are responsible for the quota- tions. It must be remembered tliat 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 way in which they are packed, the supply in the market, and the demand, and they may Huctuate, not only from day to day, but often several times in one day. Ed.] ImiMrted Flowers : Average Wholesale Prices. Anemones, pink, p. 12 bunches. — fu]gens, per doz. bunches. Carnations, per doz. bunches. Fern.Prench, per doz. bunches. Freesias, p. doz. bunches Lilac, per bunch. Marguerites, per doz. bunches. s.d. s.d. 2 0-30 3 0-40 9 0-12 6 2 0-40 3 6-40 2 0-30 Mimosa (Acacia), per basket ... Narcissus, per basket Ranunculus, per doz. bunches. Roses, per dozen blooms Violets, blue, per dozen bunches. ... Parma. per large bunch... s.d. 6 0-10 8 0-10 9 0-12 10-20 10-20 3 6-46 Plants in Fots, &c. s. d. s. d. Acacia Drum- mondi, per doz. 18 0-24 AraliaSieboldi,doz.4 0-6 Aspidistras, green, per doz. ... 18 0-24 — variegated, per doz. ... 30 0-42 Azalea indica, p. doz 24 0-43 — mollis, p. doz. 24 0-42 Asparagus plu- mosus nanus, per doz. ... 12 0-18 — Sprengeri.doz, — teuuissimus per doz. ... 8 0-10 Begonia Gloire de Lorraine. doz. 12 0-18 — Turnford Hall, per doz. ... 9 0-15 Borouin mcga- stigmn, p-doz. is 0-24 Calla a?thiopica, Average Wholesale Prices. s. d. s. d. I 0-24 per doz. ... 8 0-10 Cinerarias, dozen 7 0-10 CrotoD.s, per doz. 12 0-30 CocosWeddclliana, per doz. ... 18 0-30 Cyclamen persi- cum, per doz. Ji 0-12 Cypcrus alterui- folius, p. doz. 3 0-50 — laxus, p. doz. 3 0- 4 u Draca?nas, p. doz. Daflodils, Yellow Trumpet, doz. 6 0- ti Ericas, per doz.... 1.3 0-24 Euonymus, per dozen 4 0-90 Ferns, in thumbs, perioo 8 0-12 — in 4S's, p. doz. 4 0-10 — in 32's, p. doz. 9 0-18 Ficus elastica, p. doz 9 12 — rcpens, p.doz. 6 0-90 0-12 Genistas, per doz. 9 0-12 Hyacinths (3 in a pot), per doz. 8 0-12 Kentia Belmore- ana. per doz... 12 0-18 — Fosteriana, p. doz 12 0-21 Lataniaborbonica, per doz. ... ft 0-15 I Marguerites, doz. 6 0-10 o Primula sinensis, per doz. — ohconica, per dozen Solanum capsicas- trum, per doz. Spirica japonica, per doz. Tulips, in boxes, each 4 0-60 Azalea Fielderi, per doz. bun.. — mollis, per dz. bunches E o u V a r d 1 a s, ♦per doz. bun. Calla icthiopica, per doz. blooms Camellias, perdz. blooms Carnations, best American vars. perdz. blooms — smallerblooms per doz. bun.. Cattleya labiata, per doz. blooms Chrysanthemums, best blooms, pr. dz. blooms — in bunches, per doz. bun.. Cypripedium in- signe. per doz. blooms Daflodils, single yellow, per dz. bunches — double, perdz. bunches — Golden Spur, per doz. bun. — Henry Irving, per doz. bun. — princeps. per doz. bunches. — Sir Watkin, per doz. bun. Dendrobiura no- bile, 12 blooms. Eucharis grandi- flora, 12 blooms Euphorbia iacqui- niaiflora, bunch Gardenias, perdz blooms Hyacinths. Roman per doz. bun. ... Lilac (English forced), per bun. Lilium auratum, per bunch ... — lancif olium rubrum and album, p. bun. Foliage : Average Wholesale Prices. s.t/. s.d. Asparagus plu- mosus. long trails, each ... — — medium, each shorr sprays IJer bunch... — Sprcngeri ... — tenuissimus .. Adiautum cunea- ttmi, doz. bun. Croton leaves, doz. 9-10 4-06 10-36 9-16 9-10 6 0-90 10 2 Cycas leaves, each Fern. English ... Ivy-leaves.bronzo — long trails, per bundle ... — short green, pcrdoz. bnch. Myrtle Smilax, p. buncli Hardy foliage (various), per dozen bunches 1 0- 3 0- 4 0- s.d. 1 r. 1 6 4 6 u s.d. 4 0- s.a. 6 12 0- 15 4 0- B 3 0- 6 2 0- 3 "3 6- 6 IS 0-30 S 0-12 2 6- 4 9 0-24 2 6- 3 6 •1 0- 9 6 0- s S 0-10 6 0- 7 .1 0- 9 0- 10 2 6- 3 2 0-30 1 6- 2 6 2 0- 3 ' & 0- 8 3 0- 4 2 6- 3 2 0- 3 S.d. s.d. Lilium longi- florum, bunch — - tigrinum.bun. Lily of the Valley, per dozen bun.. Marguerites, white, per dozen bun. — yellow, perdz. bunches Narcissus gloriosus. per doz. bun.. 2 0-30 -^ paper - white, per doz. bun.. — Ph eas an t's Eye. pel- doz. bundles — Soleil d'Or. per dozen bunches Odontoglossum crispum, pr. dz. blooms Pe largoniums (Show), white, per dozen bunches — (Zonal) double scarlet, per doz. bunches. — salmon and pink, per doz. bunches Roses, Niphetos, pr. dz. blooms 2 0-40 — Bridesmaid, pr. dz. blooms 4 0-60 — Kaiserin A. Victoria, per dozen blooms 6 0-90 — General J;u> qiieminot, per dozen blooms 4 0-80 — C. Mermet, pr. dozen blooms 4 0-60 — Sunrise, per dozen blooms 3 0-40 Tuberoses, per dz. blooms — on stems, per doz. bunches. 9 0-12 Tulips, per dozen bunches Violets, blue, English, perdz. bunches 4 0-50 2 0-26 \S 0-lS 3 0-4 3 0- -3 16-31 4 0- 2 6-30 2 6-30 4 0-60 4 0-80 6 0-80 6 0-80 6 0-90 Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices. Apples, bushel ... — English, sieve or half bushel per barrel . — Newtown Pippin per case ... Bananas, bunch . — loose, dozen... Chestnuts, bag ... Chow-Chows, per dozen Cobnuts, per lb. . Cranberries, per box Custard - Apples, per dozen s.d. s.d. 2 0- .? 16-30 12 0-16 U 40 — 17 0-20 5 0-11 10 — 16 — 2 6 — 5 — Grape-Fruit, case Grapes, Gros Colmar, p. lb. — Muscat, A., lb. B , per lb, — Alicante, lb. per barrel. Lemons, per case Lychees, per box. Oranges, per case — Blood — Navel — Jaff'a. per box — Seville ~ Mandarines (200) Pines, each 2 0-40 S.d. s.d. 10 — 10-13 20 — 5 — 12-16 16 6-20 : 0-15 19 — 8 0-12 6 0-80 14 0-16 11 — 5 6-11 5 0-60 2 3 Vegetables : Average Wholesale Prices, .^■. d. s. d. Artichokes. Globe, per dozen ... 3 6 — - Asparagus, bunch 4 0-60 — Giant 12 — — Paris Green... 4 6 — — Spanish.bunch 19 — — Sprue, p. doz. in — Beans, dwf., p. lb. 2 6 — — Madeira, per basket 3 6 — Beetroot, bushel 16 — Broccoli, Sprout- ing, bag 16 — Brussels-Sprouts, bag 2 6 - Cabbages, p. tally 36 — Carrots, 12 bunch. 2 — — bag 3 — Cauliflowers, doz. 19 — — Cherbourg ... 19 — ~ Italian, bskt.2 7.^-2 10.'. — St. Malo, doz. 2 — Celeriac, per doz. 2 6 — Celery, doz. bnchs. s 0-12 Cress, doz. pun, 9 — Cucumliers, doz. h n- h Curled Kale, bush. 16 — Endive, per doz, 1 7- 1 9 Garlic, per lb. ... 5 — Gi'eons. bushel ... 3 — Horseradish, fo- reign, p, bunch 10 — Mint, per dozen... 30 — s.d. s.d. Leeks, doz.bndls. 2 6 — Lettuces, Cabbage, per dozen ... 10-12 Mushrooms(house) 1 5 0- 14 12 14 1 6 3 U , 10 6 per lb.., ' Onions, pickling, per sieve — English, cwt. I - iJutch, p. bag. — Valencia, per case . Parsley, per doz. bunches Parsnips, per bag I Peas. French, per I packet. Potatos, per ton 60 u-iud ' Radishes, p. doz. bunches ... 16 — Rhubarb, York, per dozen ... 1 — Salad, fmall pun- nets, per doz 9 — ■ Savoys, per tally 3 — , Seakalc, per doz. 12 — Shallots, p. sieve 4 — Touiatos, per box 12 0-16 Turnips per doz. 16 — — per bag Turnip-tops, bag , Swidc. per bag ... Watercress, per 1 doz. bunches . 2 u 2 (1 1 6 3 6- f Potato .s Dunbars. 90.^ to 100s. ; TcnerilTo. 12s. to Us. per cwt. ; Algerian, per lb., 4d. ; Jersey, per lb., 6d.; various, homegrown, 60s. to 70s. per ton. John Bath, .32 (0 .34, M'ellingti-m Street, Covent Garden. FRUITS AND VEGETABLES. Glasgow, Februarys^. — The following aretheavera.ges of the prices during tlie past week ;— Apples, American, 9s. to iSs. per barrel: do., Canadian, Us. to 255. (Jo. ;- Oranges, ordinary 420"s, 6s. to Ts. per case ; do., large, Ss. to lOs. do.; do., extra large, 10s. to 14s. do.: do., large 714"s, 8s. to Ics. do. ; Lemons Ss. to I5s. per case ; Grapes, liome. 9d. to is, per lb. ; Colmars, ivd. to is. 6rf. do. ; Alicautes, 8d. to is. 2d. : Bananas, 6s. to 12s. per bunch; Tomatos, os. 6d. to 4s. Od. per box; Onions. 4's. 12s. to 13s. per case ; o's, 15s. to 16s. do. ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is. Qd. per lb. Liverpool, February S.—Mlioksale Vegetable Markel (North i/aj().— The following are the averages of th^ current prices during the past week— prices varyin^ according to supply :— Vegetables : Potatos, per cwt" Bruce. 2s. 2d. to 2s. 6d. ; Main Crop, 2s. 9*^. to 3s. 9(/,. ; Up" to-Date, 2'^, to 2s. id. : Turnips, 6d. to 8d. per dozen bunches; Swedes, Is. to is. 2d. per cwt. ; Carrots, 3s. to 3s. 3d. do. ; Onions, foreign, I4s. to 14.';. 6(/. per bag; Parsley, (id. to ad. per dozen bunches: Cauliilowers, Is. 9d. to 2s. (id. per dozen ; Cabbages, 6d. to lOd. do.; Celery, 8d. to Is. 4d. do.— Fruit : Apples, American. Is. 6d. to I2s. 6d. per barrel : Canadian. 8s. to 16s. do. ; Oranges, Valencia, 6s. 6d. to Ss. 6d. per case ; large do,, 7s. 6it. to 12s. 6d. do. ; Jaffa, 3s. 6d. to 9s. (^d. per box ; Bitters, 4s. 6d. to Ss. ad per package ; Lemons. Palermo audMessina, 5^. to 7s. per case ; Maples, 3s. 6d. to.ls.6d. per box. St. Jnhn's. ~Pota.tos, lOd. to Is. per peck : Cu- cumbers. 6d. to 8d. each : Grapes. English, Is. 6d. to2s.6d. per lb. ; do , foreign, 6d. to 8d do. ; Pine-apples, 3s. to fis. each ; Mushrooms, Is. to Is 3d. per lb. Birkenhead.— Potatos, 8d. per peek; Cucumbers, \s. each ; Filberts. Is. to 1.^. 2d. per lb.; Celery, lid. to .3d. per stick; Apples, l.'d. to 3(/. per lb. : Peai's, 2d. do. ; Grapesi, English, iTs. 6d. to 3s. tid. do.; do., foreign, 6d. to 8d., do. ; Tomatos, English, 4d. to 6rf. do. : Mushrooms, 1«, to Is. 4d. do. COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET. TiiK recent mild weather has caused flowering plants to develop rapidly, especially bulbous plants. Daffodils are over-plentiful and are considerably lower in prices, while Tulips and Hyacinths are also very plentiful. Richardia (Calla) :cthiopica is good l)ut is not much in demand, (ienistas are now arriving from several growers Marguerites continue abundant. Cinerarias are good : these are now sent by several growers. Azalea indica in various sizes are well-Howcred,. but the supply is somewhat over ploatiful. There are also a few good specimens of A. Fielderi and of -A. mollis. Of Erica hyemalis there are still some fairly good plants obtainable, as there are alsoof E. persoluta alba, E. fastigiata, and E. mclanthera. There is not a large demiind for hard-wooded plants ; these now include ■ Acacias armata, ovata. and Drummondi,' Boronia mogastigma, and Diosma gracilis. Plants oi Begonia Gloire de Lorraine of goi)d quality are still to bo had. A few good Lilium longiflorum in pots are seen. Cyclamen arc now very good, while Solanmns are still tn l)ch;id. Ferns in all sizes arc plentiful, and since the mild weather has prcvaJied they have snld mure readily. Palms are also plontifiij : growers of these plants cdraplain of diminshcd trade compured withthatof afrwyciirs ago. Aspidistras in both green and variegated varieties are plentiful ; prices for tliese do not vary much. Ficus elastica sells slowly; Ficus repens is not selling well jusl, now. Hardy perennials and herbaceous plants are now to I)e had, also several varieties of spring bedding plants. Hardy trees, shrubs, and climbers iu variety are all procurable. Cut Flowers. The mild weather has made a considerable dlflei*cucc to supplies, especially among Roses, of wliich there is a regularly increasing supply. The variety GenoraJ Jacqueminot is arriving from several growers; the flowers arc not large, but they are bright in colour. La France and Caroline Testout are very good, also Kaiserin Augusta Victoria. Niphetos is now plentiful. Sofrauo (English-grown) arc of a good colour, but small in size. Catherine Mermet ii not well coloured. Daffodils are coming from many sources, and are now the chief feature among cut flowers. It will be diflicult to give even approximate prices. Some of the best varieties inain- tain good prices, imt already the prices for ordinary samples have gone down considerably. Narcissus poelicus was as low in price ou Tuesday as is. per dozen i)unches. The varieties Paper-white and Soleil d*Or are also very plentiful. There are still fairly good Chrysanthemum flowers seen. The supply of Orchid- bloom is more than equal to all demands. In , Carnaiious the variety Mrs. T. W. Lawsou is now conspicuous. It is remarkable that tlierc arc \ery few really good flowers of tlie English varieties seen. The variety Madame Th(Sri:se Franco (Mrs. hco ].olddcRothschiId)liaslieenmarkctcdiu goodcouditiou, Liliums continue plentiful and there is little v:iriation iu the prices for these. Zonal Pelargonium "Uaspail " is now more abundant and is lower in price. Violets aic more plentiful. Snowdrops, Wallflowers, and other spring flowers are making their appearance. Supplicsof French flowers, with thccxceptionof Roses, arc comiug in beUei' again. Kanunculus, Anemones, iind Double Stocks arc all good. Tlicre arc several diflcrent varieties of Acaci;is iMimosn), some nro pn^t their best in quality. There are good suppi los of all kindK of foliage. -4. //.. Wednesday, />('ni./ry 8. 96 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Feekuaet 11, 1905, ENQUIRIES. — » Lady Gabdenee. — I am anxious to know if there is any way for a girl to get training in gardening (of such a character as to fit her for obtaining a post as lady gardener) less expensive than the Horticultural College at Swanley or Lady Warwick's Hostel ? Do any botanical gardens or large nursery establishments employ women gardeners? E. C. C. D'O. Finds insignis. — I would like to ask those who have planted this tree in quantity it it is usual or advisable to plant Pinus insignis in sacking ? I know where there has been recently planted about 100 of these trees. They were received from the nursery, each plant with a nice ball of soil around the roots tied up in sacking, and with the advice that the plants were to be planted as received, without taking away the sacking. IV. J. P. Moss. — Can any reader tell me where I can find some information respecting that curious Moss, Dicranum glaucum, which is found in the Pine- woods near Weybridge in rounded, unattached tnfts of various sizes ? I have never met with any explanation of the mode in which these tufts become entirely detached from the soil and self-supporting. J. E. H. Acetylene Gas. — Is the spent carbide good for the kitchen-garden ? What time would be best to apply it ? Our soil here is of a rather stiff nature, resting on chalk. G. A. H. INSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. A Gaedenek's Testimonial.s: J. S. The em" ployershould certainly return the testimonials to you at once under the circumstances you have described, and especially after the trouble you have been caused. It would be well to consult a solicitor ; and in future to avoid such needless worry by holding the originals and submitting copies only. Apple: J. H. A. The brown sunken patches are caused by a fungus called Gla?osporiuni fructi- genum (see fig. in Gardeners' Chronicle, Oct. 8, 1901, p. 249) . Spray with a solution of potassium sulphide — halt an ounce to a gallon of water, and add one ounce of soft-soap. Commence first when the Apples are just set. and repeat at intervals of ten days until no trace of dis- ease is to be seen. Cold storage prevents the spread of the disease when the fruit is ripe. Books : W. J. S. We know of no book in the English language treating exclusively upon Palms, but there are chapters on the subject in most of the books upon stove and greenhouse plants, or in the gardening encyclopaedias, as Thompso7i's Gardeners* Assistant, new edition, edited by Mr. W. Watson, Curator at Kew. Carnations: E. S. Varieties of the type of Souvenir de la Malmaison should at no time be syringed, and even the damping of stages, paths, and other surfaces should only be done in bright weather : esj^ecially is this essential during winter. The tree or perpetual-flowering sorts, being less liable to the attacks of fungus, may be judiciously sprayed during all the growing season and in bright weather in winter. The foliage of these plants being of a softer character, aphides are sometimes trouble- some, and a dry, arid temperature would encourage them ; recourse must therefore be had to the syringe to minimise the risk and at the same time stimulate growth. Cobham Park ; G. Most of the glasshouses at Cobham Park, of which details were published last week, were, we are informed, built by Mr. James Gray, Chelsea. Compensation foe Trees and Shedbs : J. R. G. We should suppose that the purchaser of the estate purchased the movable trees and shrubs also. Correction. In the paragraph on Ventnor in .fanuary, on p. 73, instead of Barometer 39'9 read 30'9. (See also under " Potatos.") Crocuses : B. W, W. The sepals and petals are more or less laciniate, and approach a semi- double condition. Ctpeipbdium Leaves : F. H. The injury is due to the presence of moisture on the leaves when the temperature was falling. Admit more air to the bouse, and spray the plants only when the temperature is rising and the weather bright. Dendkobicm : Magenta. A very good variety of D. nobile, being similar to the form known as D. nobile nobilius. FiG-TEEES Deopping THEIR Feuits : 0. S. This may arise from several causes, and which it may be in your case we are unable to say. The atmosphere of the house should be kept moist, and the trees sj ringed overhead twice each day in bright weather, damping the floors and other surfaces instead when the weather is dull. Figs require heat, much moisture, a little ventilation at all times, varying in degree according to the condition of the weather, a restricted root-run, abundance of moisture at the roots, and applications of liquid manure when the flowering stage has passed and the fruits are swelling. The trees should not be permitted to carry excessive crops. See note in the " Fruits under Glass " Calendar on p. 87. Fumigating Tender Plants : B. M. Instead of seeking to obtain a moist atmosphere at such a time you should refrain from spraying the plants and damping the surfaces in the house for some hours, or all day, before the process of fumigating the plants is commenced. None of the plants should have moisture upon their leaves at such a time. Choose an evening when there is little wind, make the house as air-tight as possible, and remember that it is better to repeat the operation on the following evening than to make the application too severe on the first occasion. HoETicuLTUBAL Insteuctoe : W. F. Stannwrc' Among other qualifications it is essential to possess a good practical acquaintance with plain gardening, with a knowledge of how to do a thing and of the reason why, more especially in fruit and vegetable culture. The following requirements may also be mentioned : — An intimate acquaintance with the more common garden pests, both fungi and insects, and the methods to be adopted for their extirpa- tion. Power of exposition by word with the use of black-board or of magic-lantern, and in simple language " understandable of the people." Competence to act as judge at shows and in garden competitions. Ability to show novices how to handle and work in the most eflieient manner with any kind of tool or simple machine, and to demonstrate the various methods of grafting, inarching, budding, root- pruning, and making cuttings. To be able to show how properly to plant various kinds of hedges, and to train the same when planted; also how to "set in" trees for felling. To point out how best to grow window-plants ; how to pack fruit and vege- tables tor market, including sorting and grading. Indeed it is not easy to tell you what subjects you should not be acquainted with, so multifarious are the matters coming within the purview of a horticultural lecturer. L.4DT CtArdeneb : J. W. H. We do not know the lady's address. Write to the college authorities at Swanley, they may perhaps be able to supply it. Xames of Feuits : W. B. S. Pear Glout Morceau, and Apple Blenheim Pippin. (Thanks for Postal Order for Is., which shall be given to the Gardeners' Orphan Fund). — Sf. Bros. Pear Belmont. — A. H. 1, Blenheim Pippin ; 2, Emperor Alexander ; 3, Pean's Codlin ; 4, Hormead's Pearmain ; S.Newton Wonder; li. Tower of Glamis. — T. E. H. Not recognised. The fruit much resembles that of Annie Eliza- beth, but upon comparison for flavour is much superior to that variety. Names or Plants: J. W. Cytisus monspessn- lanus. — A. C. 1, Dracajna intermedia: 2, Bil- bergia iridifolia ; 3, DracaBua ooncinna ; 4, Hibiscus Cooperi ; 5, Anthericum lineare variegatnm ; 6, Cyperus alternifolius ; 7, Dracajna fragrans, probably, specimen bad ; 8, Draca-na versicolor ; 9, Yucca aloifolia medio- variegata ; 10, Maranta Makoyana. — F. G. G. Petasites fragrans. — W. T., Gloucester. Odonto- glossum X Adrianae of ordinary quality, not worth sending for exhibition. — J. P., Constant Reader. Helxine Soleirolii, often grown like moss in Orchid-houses, and sometimes used in carpet-bedding out-of-doors. — A. R. A. 1, Epi- dendrum ; 2, Cypripedium >' Lathamianum ; 3, Oncidium spilopternm.— Jlf. H. S. A. Polygala chamffibuxus. — Cihirum. Jasmiuum Sambac and Chlorophytum elatum variegatum. — F. P. Eucalyptus Globulus in adult or fruiting stage. — L. McC. (Shelton). It is almost impossible for us to name plants from leaves only. 1, next week : 2, cannot teU without flowers ; 3, Daph- niphyllum macropodum ; 4, Cupressus semper- virens ; 5, Philesia buxifolia ; 6, Viburnum lantanoides probably. — 11'. S.. Darlington. Ccelogyne lactea, of no special commercial value. New Zealand: J. W. There are undoubtedly good markets in the large towns, but we cannot accept the responsibility of advising you as to the prospects there compared with those exist- ing in this country. Write to the Agent- General for that Colony, 13, Victoria Street, Westminster, London. PoTATOs : T. L., Sandown. — In our reply last week the distances for planting were by some means reversed. It should have read 10 inches from set to set in the rows, and 2 feet between the rows. Powellised Timber. — In. reply to numerous correspondents from Germany, France, and India, we may say that the office of the Com- pany is at Temple Bar House, 28, Fleet Street, London, where full information can be had. Eecoed Bunches or Geapes : H. H. The largest bunch of Grapes of which we have record was one of the variety Trebbiano, weighing 26 lb. 4 oz. It was shown by Mr. Curror, gr. to G. Douglas, Esq., Eskbank, Dalkeith, at the the Eoyal Caledonian Society's show, held on September 15, 10, 1875. This was a hand- somely-formed bunch, the berries closely and solidly packed, so that the shoulders stood out firmly in all directions, and the bloom was perfect. Another bunch of Grapes shown at the same time, but of the variety White Nice, turned the scale at 25 lb. 15 oz. This bunch was shown by Mr. Dickson, gardener to John Jardine, Esq., of Arkleton, Lang- holme, Glasgow. It is no little credit to the gardeners of Scotland to have thus produced the two largest bunches of Grapes upon record. In more recent years a bunch of Gros Guillaume, grown by Mr. McKenna, gar- dener at Phcenix Park, turned the scale at 20 lb. (see Gardeners' Chronicle, February 6, 188G, p. 168), and in 1898 a bunch of Black Alicante was grown at Pitcullen Vineries wluch weighed 13 lb. 6 oz. (see fig. in Gardeners' Chronicle for January 29, 1898, p. 72). Our " record " book gives 8} lb. as the largest bunch of Black Hamburgh, produced at Oakfield Gardens, East Barnet, Hertfordshire, in July 1858. An ac- count of this bunch in our issue of that date states that the Oakhill Grapes were sold in Covent Garden market at 16s. per lb. The largest bunch of the variety Muscat of Alex- andria recorded in our book weighed 2 lb. 11 oz. Three bunches of this variety shown by Mr. Roberts, CharlevUle, in 1878, totalled 15 lb. 6 oz. in weight. Snail Plant : R. 8. P. We suspect this plant is Medicago scutellata, which is known as the Snail Clover or Snail Trifoly, owing to the peculiar shape of the pods. The species is widely distributed. SOOIETE FRANfAISE d'HoETICULTUEE DE LoNDEES : J. S. The President is Mr. Geo. Schneider, 17. Ifield Eoad, Fulham Eoad, London, S.W. COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED.— E. M.-Uoder Gardener (your communication is of too personal a nature. Address the Commiltee upon the subject).— E. A. R.— Sir H M.— S. W. F.— H M.— F. Mason Good.— F. J. A. —Sir M. F.— Harrison Weir.— H. Nehrling, Florida.— M. Cogniaux.-A. H. K.-Rev. G. W. R.-A. S.-W. M. — H. J. E.-B. W.— D. N. M.-iy.- E. B — S. M.— J. A. W. (your letter has been forwarded)-C. II. P.— C. H. S.— W H — W. W.-G. W,— Cultus.— L. G.. Brussels.— W Grant.— D. M.. Paris.— W. R. (appointment will be published ; thanks for contribution to Orphan Fund). 3. C. & Sous.-R. N.-C. T. D.-Sir W. T. T. D.--J. C- j A — P T. H. S.— C. Page — Desperandura.— J. F. McL. — S W F-0. T.-W. H.— T. W.— F. C. P.-VV. D.— W. G. C.-Eiftel.-R. W.-C. L. B. Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle.' O. i^'n^'^x ? CYPRIPEDIUM X LEEANUM YAR. J. GURNEY FOWl.KR, \V]I1CH OBTAIM-D A IMRST-ClASS CERTIFICATE FROM THE Royal Horticultural Society on January 24, when shown by Messrs. Sander & Sons. Sepals porcelain -white, upper one with purple stripes; petals and lip creamy- white FLUSHED WITH PURPLE. Bradbupy, Agnew & Co., Ld.. Primers. London ana 1 uuLirnlt;ii. h.. Februaby 18, 1905,] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 97 THE No. 9^7. —SATURDAY, Feb. 18, 1905. CONTENTS- Abei'deen gardeners, lectures to 104 Alpiue garden- Campanula garganica hirsuta 97 Oxalis lobata ... 97 Books, notices of— Book of the Rose, the 101 Flora and Sj'lva ... 104 Cedrus Deodara var. alba spica 105 Chrysanthemums, new continental varie- ties of 101 Clematis, the propaga- tion of 112 Cryptomeria japonica 105 Cucumber ''spot" disease 1C5 Eremurus, the species of 98 Forestry— The sessile-flowered Oak 101 Gardeners' Association, the British 110 Orape-vines intheopen 106 Hollyhocks, annual ... lotJ Holly, English in America 105 Jasmiuuni uudifloruni 105 Kew notes 98 Kitchen-garden crops, rotation of 99 Measures, market ... 104 Orcliids at Gattou Park 100 Orphan Fund. Royal Gardeners' .,.10-1,10?. Peaches, early Peloria in Orchid flowers Pencil for writing on labels, a new Plants new or note- worthy- Primula deorum ... Potatos Rose Frau Peter Lam- bert Societies — Horticultural Club . Manchester & North of England Orchid National Chrysan- therauni Royal Horticultural (annual meeting) 97, Solanum Commersoni and edible Potatos... V e i t c h Memorial Trust, the Walls, beautifying ... Walmer Castle. Kent Week's work, the— Apiary, the Flower garden, the Fruits under glass... Hardy fruit garden Kitchen garden, the Orchid houses, the Plants under glass... 100 101 no no no loe 104 99 102 103 102 102 103 lo;! 102 103 101 99 ILLUSTRATIONS. Co?logyne cristata, sliowing regular peloria hardener's Cottage at Linton Park, the Odiham Vicarage, Hants, adorned with Vines, Clematis, &c Primula deorum, a new species from Bulgaria Views of the historic castles at Walmer and Deal (Supplementary Illustration). THE EOYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. fT^HE second centenary of the Royal -'- Horticultural Society opens auspi- ciously. The new Hall and oiTices are com- plete, and though they are not faultless they are sufficiently so to silence the grumblers and those critics who seem only able to look at one facet of a crystal. Nobody can say the Hall was not wanted — no one can deny that the want has not lioen well supplied. We know to whose muni- ficence we owe the possession of a home. We cannot be too grateful for the help that Sir Henry Sclirijder and Sir Thomas Han- bury have afforded, and we do not forget that it was the liberality of Messrs. Elwes, Sherwood and Sutton that gave the initial impulse to the fund raised for the erection of the Hall and offices. Specially also we must cot forgot that their good example needs to be followed by many more liefore the debt now owing can be abolished. The proceedings at the a]inual meeting held on Tuesday last are fully repotted in another page, and the Report of the Council is in the hands of the Fellows. Sir Trevor Lawrence had just cause to be jubilant. He has been at the helm all through the dark days; ho never flinched or despaired; but not even he could have imagined that the centennial year could have been consum- mated by the erection of a spacious and commodious Hall, by the acquisition of a garden five times bigger than Chiswick, and destined to rival, if not to eclipse, the glories of the old garden. In those dismal days how could he have looked forward to the accomplishment of these great facts, to a roll of Fellows numbering more than eight thousand, and to a substantial surplus on the year's working? We may almost say, looking back, that the impossible has been accomplished ! In the future we have every reason to anticipate that wliile tlie routine work of tlie Society will be carried on under much more favourable conditions than formerly, real progress and advance- ment will result eventually from the estab- lishment of a research station at Wisley. Utilitarian objects and the love of the beau- tiful are self-supporting, and need compara- tively little assistance— they appeal to every- one; but if we want to increase the powers of the horticulturist, to open up new fields for his energies, increase his resources, and put weapons in his hands to combat the ills to which he is subjected, we must look to scientific research— research which may not at once appeal to the ordinary gardener, professional or amateur— research which cannot be carried out by him, but must be delegated to the specialist, unhampered by commercial considerations and unaffected (if that be possible) by the fascinations of floral beauty or other sensuous perceptions. With such views, we were pleased to hear the President's remarks on the speedy reali- sation of our hopes for a properly equipped and competently officered research station at Wisley. It is a matter for regret that the summer show cannot be held this year in the pad- dock at Holland House, but this feeling does but intensify our sense of gratitude to Lord Ilchester for the privilege that he has accorded on former occasions. We have yet to see whether the location at Chelsea will be equally attractive. Sir Trevor I,awrence's reference to the Secretary (Rev. W. Wilks), and to the work done by him and his staff, were heartily endorsed by the meeticg. Indeed, it is im- possilile to over-estimate the value of Mr. Wilks's services, impossible not to attribute to him a very large share in bringing about the present prosperous state of affairs. The financial matters, as explained by Mr. Gurney Fowler, are such as to ensure confi- dence in tlie future. Two things remain to be accomplished— the extinction of the debt and the endowment of the Lindley Library. The income of the Trustees ia so extremely small that the vote by their brother-trustees of the Veitch Memorial Fund of £-50 comes as a substantial temporary relief, and will, we trust, enable the custodians to proceed more rapidly with tlie binding and with the purchase of desirable books. In this connection we must not fail once again to record our thankfulness to Baron Schriider, who has borne the cost of the instalment of the Library in its present quartets in a fashion far mora in con- s. nance with the importance of the collec- tion than has ever been the case before. The Library now can fairly take its place among the great metropolitan libraries, and those responsible for its management are relieved from the sense of humiliation they experienced at its former condition. The speeches of Mr. Arthur Sutton, Mr. Elwes and others were very much to the point, and never were the thanks of the Fellows to the Council more truly earned than on this occasion. ALPINE GARDEN. CAMPANULA GARGANICA HIRSUTA. Hardly any of the Alpine Campanulas can lay claim to being more valuable for the rock- garden than C. garganica hirsuta, the pilose form of C. garganica, a well-known plant in this country. It comes early into bloom, and it con- tinues to flower in almost constant succession until late in the year. It was still charming in the fourth week of October, with its little pale blue and white flowers, although it had been in Ijloom since early in June. This variety of the Gargano BeUflower, or the Bellflower of St. Angelo, is mainly distinguished from the type by the light-coloured hairs which cover its stems and leaves, so as to give them quite a grey appearance. It is as easily cultivated as the typical C. garganica, but it is a much prettier and more refined plant on the whole. Of slightly trailing or prostrate habit it makes an excellent rock-plant, and when seen hanging over a low ledge of dark stone, looks very pretty indeed. Recently there has been introduced a variety with almost pure-white flowers, but slightly less vigorous (I use the word "vigorous" only com- paratively, for it is not a strong grower), and it seems a little more tender during winter ; but this will probably pass off as the plant becomes propagated in a less tender method. Very beautiful, however, as is this white variety, it cannot surpass the pale l:)lue and white form which is recognised as the typical C. garganica hirsuta. Like the other forms of the species, C. g. hirsuta, which is frequently met with simply as C. hirsuta, likes a rather peaty soil, together with abundance of water in the flowering season. It shows a preference here for a fair amount of shade, and does nowhere so well as facing the east, and in a spot where it only gets the full sun when it reaches near its meridian in summer. C. g. hirsuta is propagated by division or cuttings. S. A. OXALIS LOBATA. As a late-flowering alpine plant this bright little Wood Sorrel is invaluable. It is quite a pleasure to see its bright golden blossoms opening in the faint sun of October and November, and we should be delighted could we persuade it to keep them expanded when there is no sunshine. It is however a true sundover, even if it does not bloom until late in the year. It was introduced to me by the late Mr. H. Selfe-Leonard a good many years ago, and I can well recollect the pleasure given by its flowers one early November day when I came across the plant in bloom for the first time. Its bright little yellow flowers were most welcome and cheering, and I can never forgot the pleasure they yielded then, just after frost had practically ruined my other flowers for the year. 0. lobata is a native of Chili, but is hardy in most places with us, though in the coldest localities it might be protected with a little loose litter about it after it has flnished blooming. It only grovts about 3 inches high, and the flowers are displayed on a carpet of small glaucous leaflets. S. Amott, Carseihom-by- Dumfriea. 98 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. fFEBBTTABT 18, 1905. NEW OR NOTEWORTHY PLANTS. PRIMTJLA DEORUM, A'elenovskt.* We lately received from Messrs. Stansfield Bros., of Kew, Southport, a coloured drawing of a Primrose from Bulgaria, which we have com- pared with specimens in the Kew Herbarium, and with the original description by Velenovsky in the Flora of Bulgaria as cited in the footnote. The plant is allied to P. glutinosa, and with its lanceolate entire leaves and clusters of reddish- purple flowers, is likely to be popular with growers of alpine plants. There are specimens gathered in Bulgaria at Pilo Dagh at altitudes between 4,000 to 7,000 feet by Mr. Elwes in June, 1899, and these specimens agree better with the de.=!cription by Velenovsky than does the drawing sent us. The differences are however unim- portant, except in so far that they show that the plant attains larger proportions than is shown in .the sketch. M. T. M. Messrs. Stansfield's note runs as foUows : — "Enclosed herewith we are sending yoii a coloured figure of a new Primula deorum (Vele- novsky). This is quite a new plant of recent introduction and as soon as the plant is better known it is sure to become a popular plant among Alpine plant growers. There is no doubt as to its hardihood, coming as it does from the lofty Mount Eilo, in Bulgaria, where it is found growing at an elevation of SCOO feet. In its native habitat it is found growing just below the snow-line. It is generally found in grassy Alpine pastures and near the numerous Alpine streams which are so common in all Alpine meadows. It must therefore have plenty of moisture, growing as it does with its roots always in water. The general appearance of the plant is somewhat like that of Primula Clusiana. The flower-stalks are thrown well up above the foliage, sometimes 8 to 9 inches in height, upon the top of which are borne a number of purplish- violet flowers of a most striking character ; sometimes as many as twenty flowers are foxind to be produced at one time. On planting it should be given a north aspect at the base of the rock garden where the plant can get a double portion of the rains which fall upon the rock garden. W. H. Stansfield, South2JO>t." Since the above note was written we have com e across a note and figure from Mr. Hindmarsh, in Flora and Sylva, ii. (190i), p. 239. Mr. Hind- marsh obtained the plant in 1902, and planted it in sandy loam in the open rock-garden, facing north, and at the foot of a large flat- topped stone. It is quite hardy with Mr. Hindmarsh, as also with M r. Max Leichtltn. * Pnmnln deorum. J . Velenovsky, Flora Sulgarica (1891), p. 479. — " Perennis, omuino ijlahnt ad scapum sujieruc ct pedicdlos vaklc glutinifera : rliizomate crasso carnoso obliquo; folii,s cnnwsulo coriaeeis, viridibu s, rosulati9 sessilibus, oblongis basi leviter vel vix attenuatis breviter acutis integi-is vel apice pauci-dentatis, scapo, 3—1 plo bi-evioribus ; umbella .5—10 flora stcpius unilale- rali; involucri phyllis oblongo-linearibus pedicellis longioribus paucis basi non saccatis et iiia?!jualibus, pedicellis calycem subrcquantibus, calycis ad medium flssi laciuiis triangulari - acuminatis ; corolla; pur- pureo-violaco.-c omuino glabrro tubo calyce triple longiore laciuiis tubo corallino tcrtia parte brcvi- oribus : capsula ovoidea calycG non aecvcto iuclusa. Floi-et Angusto. Folia 3—1 cm. x .'.-s mm. ; scapus 6—10 cm., caly.x 3-4 mm. longus ; corolla' tulius 10—12 mm., limbus 13-1.5 mm —In gi-amioosis humidis inter nives ad fontes rivuli Cerni Isker summo M. Rilo. Planta colore et magnitudine florum, foliis la'tc virid- ibus subcoriaceis elegantissima. Rhizoma digito liaud tenuius et folia sicca odorem gratum abictinum spi- .rajit. Scapus supernc viscidus podicelli et calyces sunt nigri. Umbella semper vakle unilatcralis fere sul)- nutans, Sjiecies cum nulla alia comparanda sed ad .alBnitatem P. glutiiiota- Wulf. spectaus." KEW NOTES. Flectranthus ceassus.— This genus contains but few plants of horticultural value, but a species has been discovered at last that may claim to be a useful garden plant. The seeds of P. crassus were sent to Kew in February. 1902. by Mr. J. McClounie from British Central Africa. The species flowered for the first time under cultivation in November, 1903. The plants now in flower in the Begonia-house (No. 8) were ^ Id. 41.— pi?mtn.A DEonrji: flowers rosv-pcrple. grown from cuttings rooted in March of last year. Their habit of growth is quite distinct from that of rao&t Plectranthus, which are usually much branched and bushy, whereas this species rarely branches naturally. The stems are erect, stout, and slightly woody at the base, having a height of 1 1 to 2J feet. The leaves are ovate, ■ with a crenate margin, 4 inches long by 2] inches broad ; pale green in colour, and rather pleasantly scented. The terminal spikes of labiate, lavender- blue-coloured flowers are from G to 8 inches in length, and IJ inch in diameter. A succession of flowers is maintained on the densely crowded cymose - whorls, which form the inflorescence for fully two months. Propagation should be by cuttings rooted in moderate bottom- heat, afterwards being grown on under cool conditions. Owing to its unbranched habit, it is advisable to grow three or more plants- in a pot. This is one of the few flowering plants that does not appear to have been aifectecl by the severe fogs. C^NORCHIS LOWIANA. A fine pan of this exceedingly pretty terrestrial Orchid is now flowering in the warm Orchid- house ; it has twelve inflorescences, each of which is carrying from three to six large flowers. C_ Lowiana is a native of Madagascar, and therefore requires during the period of growth a stove temperature, but it should be rested in an intermediate-house. The South African species, Cynorchis compacta, is also in flower in the cool Orchid-house. There are several pans, each with a profusion of elegant- inflorescences, some 4 inches in height, with white, spotted flowers. Epidendbum Allemani. This delightful species is very little known in gardens. It is of the same section of Epiden- drum as E. cochleatum, E. inversum. E. fragrans. itc, and is sometimes imported from Brazil under the name of E. lonopsis. The plant has deep- green flasked-shaped pseudo-bulbs about 3 inches- long, surmounted by two leathery leaves 9 inches- long by 1 inch in breadth. The spikes of flowers- are produced very freely ; they are about C inches- high, and have usually four to six flowers whieb are most deliciously scented. The individual flowers are IJ inch in diameter when first- expanded ; the sepals and petals are pure white, and remain so for about three weeks, afterwards turning cream-coloured. The lip is of pure white- with a few rosy-red markings near to the column W. H., Feiruary 8. THE SPECIES OF EEEMUEUS. {Continued from p. 67.) Species and Varieties. — E. Buncjei {auran- tiacus). — An old-time species, but still scarce enough to be called rare, and a border plant of ster- ling value, showing the greatest refinement in its- symmetrical spikes of canary-yellow flowers. It has- a black-brown root-stock, covered with a thick mass of coir-like fibre; long.wiry, thong-like roots form the usual cycle around the crowns.and the leaves ex- ceed a yard in length and are arranged in loose.. sedge-like tufts of a glaucous hue. The flower-spikes- are 6 to 9 feet long, the upper third (sometimes half > being covered with a bristling array of pretty flowers, the petals of which glisten and the silky- stamens bear orange- red anthers that look charm- ing in contrast to the yellow of the petals. The flowers are so closely arranged that the pedicels, are quite hidden when the spike is in full bloom, and one sees nothing but a silvery yellow cylinder bristling with myriads of anthers. The flowers are an inch in diameter, and the petals are rounded and often slightly recurved. It hails-, from Persia and flowers with us in July. A light soil and warm and dry resting season during early winter are very necessary for it. Var. priTcox is a slender and early-flowering- form from Baluchistan, having but few roots, but these travel 3 to 4 feet di =tant from the root-stock,, and they are coal-black in colour. The flower- spike is equally tall, but more slender, and the flowers open with those of E. himalaieus in June. They are smaller than those of E. Bungei, but similar in colour and less crowded in the spike. E. Jiimalaicus. — The common white Eremurue. now so widely planted, is a stately subject that one could use effectively in association with low shrubs, so that the tall brushes, often a yard or mort long, may be seen just above the surround- Febeuabt 18, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 99' ing foliage. The roots are nearly black, and very numerous, having somewhat acarious cuticles, and the whole root system covers a square yard when well developed. The leaves are glabrous, ■deep green, G inches wide, and a yard long, and they form a rigid rosette till the spike flowers, when the upper third recurves. The spikes vary from (J to 10 feet in height, and quite one-tlurd of their length is covered with multitudes of pure white flowers, each an inch across, the bristling anthers interlacing freely, giving a sheen of siLk to the inflorescence. They open in irre- gular circles, eight to ten ranks every day, and when the terminal foot of spike is reached the top keels over, so that a plantation' of goodly quan- tity has a cxu'iously tasselled appearance. The inflorescence is often more than G inches through, ^nd various specimens dift'er in density of spike. It is quite an easy plant to grow, and there should be no difficulty in making it succeed where it would look best. A good friable soil that drains water freely will serve, and if specimens are annually top-dressed with leaf-soil and loam, six to eight spikes from each clump may be expected in a space of six years ; for each strong spike is followed by two crowns, which in their turn, generally triennially, split into two again and again. G. B. Mallett. iTo be continued.) V E G ETAB L E S. ROTATION OF KITCHEN GARDEN CROPS. (Continued from p. 3S.} The last crops treated of were those of early and midseason Potatos (late Potatos, unless the garden is unsually large, should be relegated to the fleld). Towards the end of August or early in September, a large breadth of ground which has been under the above crops will be available, and without further cultivation or manuring, with the exception of clearing and forking the surface of the land, may be used for the reception ■of crops of Spinach for use in winter and the fol- lowing spring, and of Turnips for autumn and winter supply. These crops should be sown as. early as possible after the Potatos have been cleared, in order to allow them as long a period of Slimmer weather as is possible in order to develop strong growth. Celery. The crop I recommend to follow the Spinach and Turnips in spring is Celery. This allows the Spinach to remain on the land late into spring, an advantage which will be appre- •ciated by those who understand the value of this vegetable at that season of the year when other vegetables are frequently scarce. Whether the old system of growing Celery in single rows, or the more modern and economical one of growing the plants iji wide beds containing six or more rows of plants in a bed, be followed, the prepara- tions necessary, if the highest success is to be attained, involve the adoption of intensive culture in its truest sense, and are equivalent in everyway to ordinary trenching and manuring. In the first place, the soil in the beds must be dug out to a depth of a foot, and the bottom of the beds turned up to the depth of the spade, to ensure the earth being moved to a depth of at least 2 feet. In the bottom of the trench, after the digging is completed, a layer of good rotten manm-e should be laid at least 6 or 7 inches thick. This process, together with that of disturbing the soil to a good depth in the spaces between the beds when eartliing - up the Celery, and with the subsequent digging of the land the following spring after the crop is cleared, prepares the ground as no other crop can ■do for Onions. Before leaving the subject ■of Celery, 1 should like to say that I have always endeavoured to.i have the Celery -beds formed as early in the year as possible, even before the young plants are ready for planting, because the ridges formed by the soil dug out from the beds offer excellent ground for the growth of Lettuce, French Beans, or other such fleeting crops as occupy the land fur a short time, and are COTTAGE - WALLS. OuK late friend Edward Pynaert was wont to lament the circumstance that the residents in the Belgian country districts did not more frequently Fig. 4.J.— ODiH.iM vn AKAGE, HA»iTii, (_:(JVi,KEU WITH VTNE.■^. I. LE.M.iTl.7, (From a photogmph by F. J/asou (Voorf.) .VMPELOPSIS, &C. Fig. 4ti."TIIE l.iAIiDENKU'S ( O'rrAOE AT LINTON TAHK, NEAE 51AI1'.ST0NE. cleared away before the Celery needs to be earthed. In gardens where space is limited this effects a useful economy ; and as re{;ard3 results, the best Lettuces I have ever grown were produced in this way. Oivcn Thovns (To be contimicd.) avail themselves of the walls and gables of their residences, which he spoke of as pignons perdus. In this country we do not think the complaint would have the same amount of justification. It is common enough to see a well-trained Pear-tree covering the walls of the gardener's cottage, and how many country rectories have we not seen which, like that shown in our illustration (see fig. 45), are made supremely beautiful by the use not of rare or costly creepers, but of such as are at the disposal of anyone ! What more lovely drapery can be afforded than that furnished by the Wistaria, as figured in our issue for February 4, glorifying an otherwise plain frontage. Even suburban villas are lifted out of the commonplace by a veil of ■ Veitch's Ampelopsis or variegated Ivy, though careful housewives object to the dust and dirt which accumulates on Ivy-covered walls, and to the shelter afforded to sparrows, mice, and other creatures, whose habits are not conducive to cleanliness. We have not space now to do more than indicate the wealth of material that is available for the purpose of waU- decoration or for more utilitarian purposes, but we cannot avoid alluding to the use that is made in the chalky districts of East Kent of Clematis mortana. We remember passing through one large village almost every house front in which was clothed from base to gable with this beautiful climber, which is not so common elsewhere. In fig. 4G may bo seen what a fine effect is obtained from Koses growing on the gardener's cottage at Linton Park, near Maidstone, in a garden which is famous for its fruit trees and for its magnificent trees and shrubs, many Conifers in this collection having been illustrated from time to time in these pages. 100 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLU. [Febeuaby 18, 1903. ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS. ORCHIDS AT GATTON PAKK, RE [GATE. (See Kejjovt of ihi RMS. Shovi, p. 107.) The showy Dendrobiums, which have been slighted for some time past in many collections, now form the principal feature in the well-grown collection of Jeremiah Colman, Esq., at Gatton Park (gr , Mr. W. P. Bound), and their beauty at the present time is very remarkable. The fine specimens which now beautify several of the houses were all grown in one span-roofed house with elevated central wood-work staging, and it is surprising how such a number of plants, now ufficient tj adorn the whole of the [warmer Orchid-houies, could be contained in the space. Another noteworthy fact is that the greater part of this vast collection of Dendrobes has been raised and perfected at Gatton during the few years which Mr. Bound has been gardener there. There are several significant points about the management of the Gatton Park collection. In the first place the customary Orchid-pan, or half- pot with holes in the sides, has been abandoned, and plants intended for suspending are grown in pots of the ordinary flower-pot shape, but with the addition of three holes below the rim to take the wire-suspenders. The pots are crocked in the customary manner, and for Dendrobes a sprinkling of fine crocks is added to the compost. The crocks are broken by a machine with a handle to turn like a grind-stone, and in an hour or so as many can be prepared as would have taken a man a day to break in the old way. For the general run of Orchids one-fifth of decayed leaves is added to the peat and sphag- num-moss, but no leaves are used for the Den- drobiums, which are potted into a compost of two-thirds fibrous peat and one-third sphagnum- moss, a sprinkling of fine crocks being added. Beyond this there is little to be said, except that the golden rule of Orchid-growing, to grow briskly in a warm healthy atmosphere and to rest tlie plants dry and cool, is observed. At the present time it is estimated that there are over 10,000 Dendrobium flowers in the collection. There are most of the best varieties of D. nobile, including the clear white D. n. album, and the richly coloured D. n. nobilius, still the best of its class. D. n. Dormanianum has pretty well-rounded flowers, and the blush- white D. n. Colmani is better in shape than its ally D. n. Ballianum. Some other fine forms of D. nobQe are also present, procured from cross-fertilised seeds, and which seem to have reverted. Many hybrids of the D. x rubens and D. x splendi- dissimum class exhibit great improvement on the old forms. The flowers of many of these measure from 4 to -tj inches across, and exhibit fine tints of rose and purple, with deep claret-purple disc to the lip. The best noted were D. x rubens Gatton Park variety, D. x r. Miroir, D. X r. piUcherrimum, D. x r. grandiflorum, D. x Ainsworthii Colmanii, D. x A. Gatton Park variety, D. x Artemis in great variety, D. x Othello Gatton Park variety, D. x Apollo grandi- florum, D. X Jvmo, D. X Wiganise, and D. X Wiganianum, both represented by several fine and dissimilar varieties ; D. x Cybele, D. x Owenianum, D. x Curtisii, D. crassinode album, D. X euosmum, D. x Socius, D. x Snowflake (Cassiope x nobile albiflorum), D. :-- Schneider- ianum superbum, D. : : melanophthalmum, and many others. The growths of the stronger- growing are 3 to 4 feet in length, and very stout and vigorous. Some of the intermediate-houses had a good show of Calanthe x Bryan, and C. x Wm. Murray, in addition to the Dendrobes ; and among other things noted were the fine joUow Phaio - Cymbidium •: Chardwarense ; several Spathoglottis aureo-Vieillardi, and the variety aurea, raised at Gatto i Far't ; and Epidendrum X Boundii (radicans x Buitoni), groups of which in several houses prove it to be one of the finest oran ^e-coloured winter-flowering Orchids. The Cool Houses. The largest Odontoglossum house was formerly the span-roofed Chrysanthemum house. It has been elaborately fitted for cool Orchids, a new house being built for the Chrysanthemums. The greater part of the plants in this house are large ones, some of them of gigantic proportions and all with surprisingly large pseudo-bulbs. Propa- gation is carried to the utmost extent possible with all classes of Orchids, and the general vigour and healthy character of the plants are largely attributed to this fact. Single bulbs often with young growths 2 or 3 inches long are unhesita- tingly cut off to make separate plants if required, and nothing but success of the most gratifying kind has to be recorded of the process which the Gardeners' Chronicle took the lead in advocating some years ago. A large number of the speci- mens are producing very strong spikes. A few are in flower, including a pretty form of O. x Wilckeanum, very like a spotted O. crispum; also the beautiful Cymbidium grandifioriim panctatisslmum, C. eburneum, Cochlioda Noez- liana, some brilliant scarlet Sophrouitis of the open - lipped militaris type; Masdevallia poly- sticta, M. triangularis, M. x Courtaldiana, and a few other Masdevallias ; Odontoglossum Rossii majus, O. Cervantesii, ic. In one corner are about three hundred little seedling Odontoglossums. Although highly successful in raising most others, great difficulty was at first experienced with Odontoglossums, but success is now assured. One seedling Odontoglos.^um has a stout first bulb over an inch high, and others are following. The Intermediate Houses contain an excellent collection of hybrid Cattleyas, Lselio-Cattleyas, and a very valuable selection of fine varieties of species. All are alike vigorous, though many were in a bad state when acquired. Mr. Bound's first operation after indifferent plants are acclimatised is to free the front, active portion from the penalty of having to carry the unhealthy back bulbs, and that he considers the most important event in giving a good start to a plant. With a good show of Calanthes, a few good forms of Cattleja Trianse, C. Loddigesii gigantea, Lielia anceps Schroderiana, Waddoni- tnsis, Dawsoni, Hillianarosetieldiensis,Sanderiana and Stella, and others are in bloom ; also Arach- nanthe ( Vanda) Cathcartii ; and in the Cypri- pedium- house some of the best forms of C. :< Laeanum, a remarkably fine C. Chamberlaini- anum, and others. The Seedlings. These are contained in a block of three span- roofed sunken houses, in one of which the seed- ling Orchids seem to be raised with the greatest ease, the space in the others being used for their growth in the earlier stages and until they pass into the general collection. Here are thousands of hybrid Dendrobiums, Cattleyas, Lcelias, Lfflio- Cattleyas, and many strange crosses, which were scarcely expected to be effectual. One of the most interesting is the result of crossing the white Diacrium (Epidendrum) with the widely different scarlet-and-yellow E. radicans. The habit of the plant is like a stout, close-growing E. radicans, and it has the same manner of pro- ducing air-roots up the stem. One is sending up a spike, so it will soon be tested. The collection of fine Nepenthes and the other things in this great and remarkable garden are also in excellent condition. J. Vanda cierulea. A unique specimen of Vanda ccerulea was presented at the last meeting of the Societe d'Horticulture de France by M. Marcoz. It resembles the ordinary type in all respects except the colour, which is of a charming rose- tint. There is only one other example extant,, which is believed to be in the collection of Baron Schroder. The present example received a Certificate of Merit, and the name of " Soiivenir de Mr. Bos." D. M. POT ATO S. Wartt Potato Disease and Lime. — Just prior to planting on mounds 4 feet apart a quantity of selected large tubers of some twenty- five new and old varieties of Potatos, I mixed with the soil of each mound a pint of fresh unslacked lime, broken fine. Out of thirty mounds, each having a single plant, one gave the whole of the tubers badly affected with what is called the warty disease. That was iv tuber of Vermont Gold Coin. A second tuber of the variety from a different source gave clean produce. Obviously the first-named tuber must have been diseased before it was planted, though perhaps to a slight extent and unnoticed. It might be said that it was the lime application which kept the other twenty-nine plants and produce healthy. Were that so why not the thirtieth also ? I fear lime is not in such case an infallible preventive. A. D. Potato- raising. Mr. Findlay, in a lecture on the development of new breeds of Potatos, recalls the fact that the pro- duction of fruit "plums " and seed in Potatos was at one time much more common than it is now, when Potatos are much more often grown for their tubers rather than for their flowers and fruits. Mr. Findlay does honour to the memory of Paterson, and goes so far as to say that he would not give a farthing for any Potato if he could not trace its descent from the Victoria, either on the male or the female side. Speaking of alleged crosses with Up-to-Date, Mr. Findlay doubts their existence, as its flowers when produced are st«rile ; indeed, he says " it is an utter impossibility for anyone to have got a natural seedling from it." The great Potato-raiser even goes so far as to say that he is " distinctly of opinion that natural cross fertilisation never took place in any part of the world at any period of the woi-ld's history." As to the raising of seedlings when obtained, Mr. Findlay describes his method as follows : — " First, I get a shallow seed-pan, attend to the drainage, fill it up, or nearly, with well-decom- posed leaf-mould, to which has been added a little fine sand. I take a flat piece of wood, and beat it down fairly firm and level, and sow the seeds thinly and evenly over the flat and firm surface. That done, I take and sift, after adding more sand, some more of this leaf-mould. The sifting will remove aU grit and stones. Now sprinkle a small portion over the seeds, but see that you do it evenly and not over-thick — as near to an eighth of an inch as you can ; give also a slight beat down. If the mould is fairly moist, you need not give any water for at least two days. Set your tray, to be out of the way of mishap, into the sunny corner of a cold frame. Put a piece of old newspaper or other paper over the tray, covering up with a piece of glass. Tour great care now is to see that you do not allow the earth or mould to get dry ; at the same time you must guard against making it too wet. In a week or ten days your seed should begin to braird. Ton must then give them more light and air. With average care, in a very short time you will have nice plants. When about an inch high, put them out in small i)ots singly. In another three weeks or so, if the weather is suitable and the season far enough advanced, plant them out in the open where you mean them to be peimanently. After this, your FEBiirART 18, 190;..] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 101 work is all in the ordinary course ; only re- member this, you must take care wlien you harvest them to keep the produce of every plant by itself — I mean those you intend to grow again. Fifty per cent, or more will be of no use to go further with ; and this 50 per cent, left year by year you. if wise, will further reduce, until at the end of foar years you have only one or two left as the sole representatives of your labour and care." Continuing, Mr. Findlay remarked "that the raising of new varieties of Potatos possessing extra good productive powers was brought about by judicious selection of the parents, and not by promiscuously crossing one plant with another." CHRYSANTHEMUMS. New Continental Varieties. — We are rapidly approaching that season of the year when the French raisers of new Chrysanthe- mums place upon the market their novelties of the previous autumn. The practice nowadays differs somewhat from that observed by the former generation of growers, for the new varie- ties are generally those that have been submitted to some competent tribunal for adjudication. Hence, allowing for differences of taste and peculiarities in the standard of excellence, the novelties come to us from France now with a kind of hall-mark that was never the case in the days when Simon Delaux, Louis Lacroix, De Rey- dellet, and other growers of twenly years ago were the providers. How far this is an advantage the importer must judge for himself. In the olden time there was a gi*eat deal of weeding out required, and even now it is more than whispered that the process of selection is as necessary and as severe as it ever was. Tastes differ even in Chrysanthe- mumSj and it is certain to my mind that in this respect the English and the Gallic taste will never be always in accord. As for the flowers, it is evident that we owe to M. Ernest Calvat a debt of gratitude for a higher average quality, and up to the present he may justly be considered facile princeps. But no grower, either seedling raiser or cultivator for show, can hope to maintain for long an undisputed supremacy. When last in Paris I was not therefore surprised to find that a new competitor had entered the lists, and with startling results. The Marquis de Pins exhibited a fine collection of big heavily-built novelties that were awarded the highest honours, and of these we certainly formed the highest possible opinion. That they woiild be introduced into this country we felt no manner of doubt, and during the past autumn we anxiously looked for them at our trade collections. For some unaccountable reason and in some mysterious manner the De Pin's seedlings failed to respond to our expectations, and yet we have it on good authority that at the last Paris Chrysanthemum show the novelties shown by this new raiser again took the highest number of first-class certificates and were awarded a medal of honour, these distinctions being conferred by two different bodies — the certificates by the Floral Committee of the National Horticultural Society of France, and the medal of honour by the jury on the day following. Pressure on our space prevents any enumera- tion of these novelties. They will be found, with descriptions, in the Journal of the National Hor- ticultural Society of France for November, 1904, and selections and appreciations of them from a French point of view in Le Jardin by M. Gaston Clement and M. A. Maumen^. Other raisers who have gained new seedlings worthy of commendation are Messrs. Aug. Nonin, De Eeydellet, Heraud, Dolbois, Cavron, Eozain- Boucharlat. A special note is necessary in the case of a new sport called Madame Guillaume Rival. This is a yellow counterpart of Madame Paolo Kadaelli, from which it originated. C H. P. PELORIA IN ORCHIDS. It is not infrequently the case when matters become involved beyond hope of disentanglement that we have to extricate ourselves by going back to first principles. So the flower of an Orchid, as we generally see it, is a highly com- plicated structure, but every now and then we come across flowers which, if they are not actual reversions to an ancestral state of simplicity, are at least suggestive of such a condition. This is the case in a flower of Coelogyne cristata obligingly sent us by Mr. George Paul. The reduction of the perianth to two whorls of two each, as shown in the illustration (fig. 47), is very common, so is the absence of the lip. Co-related with this condition we have a simpler form and a straighter direction of the column. This peloriate flower was one of several on the same spike that were normal. again crossed with Madame Abel Chatenay. Tho coloured plate in the Rosen Zeitung for December shows a Rose resembling La France or Mrs. W. J. Grant. FORESTRY. THE SESSILE-FLOWERED OAK. Sir Herbert Maxwell's note (see p. 82) on- this tree refers to me as one of those recommend- ing it for dry ground, apparently implying that its success under the opposite conditions as- regards moisture contradicts my view of the sylvicultural value of the tree. AU I have done, however, was to note the limited growth of this tree on dry ground, as compared with that of the- pedunculate variety. The respective merits of these two varieties on wet ground, or rather ground usually associated with Oak, I do not profess to know much about. But wherever I ^^R^c-^rJ _ Fig. 47.— ccelogyne ceistata : regular peloria of flower with diminished number of segments, , Roses, Lilinnis, A:c., at 67 and lis, Clieapside, E.G., by Protlieroe*^ Morris, at 12. WEDNESDAY, NEXT— Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Palms, Roses, Herbaceous Plants. Lilies. Perennials, itc, at 67 and 68. Cheap- side, E.G., by Prothoroe & Morris, at 12 —1,3.54 cases Japanese Liliuius, Davallias, Iris. Pfoonies, &c., at 67 and 63, Cheapside, E.G.. by Protlieroe & Morris, at 3 o'clock.- At Stevens' Rooms at 12.30 p.m., Roses, Lilies. Azaleas. Rhododendrons, Palms, &c. THURSDAY and FRIDAY NEXT— Final Clearance Sale of Nursery Stock at Hassocks Nursery, Hassocks, Sussex, by Protheroe and Morris, at 12 o'clock. FRIDAY NEXT- Iraportcd and Established Orchids at 67 and 68, Cheapside. E.C,, by Protheroe and Morris, at 12.30 o'clock. (For further particulars see our Advertisement columns.) Ateb&ge Temperature for the ensuing weefe, deduced from observations of Forty-three Years at Chlswlck -39'8'. Actual Temperatures :— London.— Wednesday, February i.i (6 P.M.) : Max. .51" ; Min. 46'^. Qirdeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.— r/iursrfav, Feb. 16 (10 A.M.): Bar., 30 3; Temp., 60'. Weatlier— (ivorca^t and dull. Pbovinces.— Il'ednesdai/, Feb. 16 (6 p.m.): Max. 43°, Guildford ; Min. 46°, N. of Ireland. The Gardeners' Orphan Fund. It is to be hoped that the warning note uttered by the Chairman, Mr. May, at the Annual Meeting held on the 10th inst. will be so earnestly heeded that at the next annual meeting less anxiety may prevail. Everyone admits that the olijects of the charity are excellent, and at no time have we heard any complaint as to its adminis- tration, and yet the miserable tale has to be told that this year the Society could not, with due regard to its existing responsi- bilities, place one-half of the number of eligible candidates on the pension list. This circumstance is, perhaps, not sur- prising, however lamentable it may be, as a similar incapability occurs in most so- cieties of tlie kind. What strikes us as more deplorable is the fact that the annual income from subscriptions does not increase, that the regular subscribers are falling off, and that their places are not filled, as they should be, in a higher proportion. It may be said that at the annual dinner the deficiency is made good. !^o it has been in the past, and so we hope it may again be ; but a precarious and uncertain source of income is by no means so satisfactory as an assured revenue from regular subscribers. It is not spasmodic generosity that is wanted so much as the systematic performance of duty. It is humiliating to feel that we have to depend on the charity of the bene- volent when we ought to le able by our own exertions to meet our obligations either to those who in their declining years need our assistance, or to those helpless ones who in the beginning of their lives have been deprived of their natural pro- tectors. Hitherto it has been the practice, at the discretion of the Committee, to allot to the guardians of the most necessitous of the unsuccessful candidates at each election a small sum (&. M. weekly) as a gratuity until, by gradual accretion of votes, the orphan succeeds in securing election to the full benefit of the fund. We were told on li'riday last that unless the annual sub- scriptions were augment ;d this practice might have to be curtailed or even dis- continued ; so that, instead of coping with the distress in our ranks, we should actually be doing less than our predecessors. That we must, and as we think ought to. look to our own community rather than to outsiders is shown by the fact that a special appeal made to a large number of ladies supposed to be interested in gardening, and whose sympathies, it might be presumed, would go out to the orphans, resulted in the receipt of a sura not much more than suffi- cient to pay the expenses connected with the issue of the circular. Surely it is only necessai'y to lay these facts before the garden- ing public to secure a largely - increased revenue for the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund ! The Veitch Memorial Trust,— At a meet- ing of the Trustees, held on the 9th inst., it was resolved that the sum of ^£50 be presented to the Trustees of the Lindley Library for the general purposes of the Trust. A Bronze Medal and ^65 are also offered for competition at the Koyal Cale- donian Horticultural Society, on September 13 to 15 next, for six dishes of fruit, flavour and quality to be the primary consideration. A similar prize and medal are to be awarded for the three most distinct kinds in any one of the exhibits of vegetables, the object being to reward superior cultivation. Silver medals are also oilered for improved methods of packing and transmitting garden and orchard produce, and for improved methods of affording shelter and protection to outdoor plants, as well as of heating, ventilating, and shading glass structures. "Flora and Sylva." — The second volume of this elegant publication has now been issued. The paper, type, illustrations, and binding are all alike excellent of their kind. The text is varied, and much of it of permanent value. Why Correas should be called " Australian Fuchsias " is not very obvious, for the resemblance is of the most superficial character, and in structure and lineage they have nothing to do with Fuchsias, while the name Correa is surely unobjectionable. *' Cape Cowslips" as a substitute for Lachenalia may be objected to on the same grounds, but even more strongly. Vernacular names are most desirable when they are sanctioned ty long usage, and not modern coinages, and especially when they are accurate, for in gar- dening as in other matters we should strive after truth as strenuously as after beauty. Printer's errors, like " filipenaulina " and " Aubretia " are, as we know by painful experi- ence, never likely to be completely eliminated, but "Guelder Rose" for Gueldres Rose is something more than a typograpical slip. Here again the Viburnum has about as much or as little relation to a Rose as a Cabbage has to a Cucumber. Doctors differ in more important matters than etymology, as illustrated by an ohiter dictum of Sir Hknet Thompson, who is here cited as having said that Strawberries of all foods known to mortals are those most conducive to the forma- tion of lithic acid. This is a statement that should not be made without confirmatory testi- mony. We suspect it to be in conflict with general experience, and it certainly does not tally with the allegation made by Linnjeus that he cured himself of the gout by eating Strawberries. So far as we know, Linnjeus offered no more evidence on the subject than did Sir Henry Thompson. Apart from its attractive appear- ance, the volume before us will be of substantial, permanent value by reason of the numerous monographs of plants of garden interest that it contains. Foliage Begonias. — There is an interesting article on this subject, copiously illustrated, in the last number of Mollek's Deutsche Giirtner- Zeitung. These handsome plants deserve more attention than they get. " CuNARD Christmas and New Year Atlantic Souvenir." — This publication for 1904 — 1905 contains an interesting account of the fine modern ships of to-day as contrasted with those of even a quarter of a century ago. Ocean tra- vellers are now surrounded with not merely com- forts but luxuries, and one of the additions during the season to certain of the Cunard liners is the fitment to them of the Marconi telegi-aphy appa- ratus by which they are enabled to receive con- stant messages from England and America, even ■R'hen equi-distant from both continents. A vessel is now being built for this service to be propelled by turbine engines. The Souvenir includes some light literature for holiday reading. It is obtainable from the Company's offices, 8, Water Street, Liverpool. Kew. — An "Appendix" to the Bulletin has recently been issued containing a list of members of the respective staffs of the botanical depart- ments at home, in India, and in the Colonies. Market Measures. — For purposes of con- version the Board of Agriculture, in their weekly return of market prices, haveadopted the following rates ; — Apples, "bushel " = 42 lb.; "pot" = 63 lb.; " case " = 40 lb. ; " barrel " = 140 lb. Pears, " case " = 20 lb. Beet, " pot " = 70 lb. Brussels-Sprouts, "pot "^40 lb.; "hamper" = 60 lb. Onions, " Dutch bags " = 110 lb., taken as 1 cwt. : " Valencia case " = 120 lb. Spinach, "bushel" = 24 lb. Turnips, " pot " = 60 lb. Potatos, " load " = 252 lb. ; a " bag " of foreign Potatos =- 1 ewt. CaSTILLOA Rubber. — According to a note in the Troincal Agriculturist for January, the samples of rubber from Castilloa grown in Ceylon are the '* finest yet seen." The rubber was procured by a simple method from quite young trees. "Gifts." — We have on more than one occa- sion pointed out that the remedy for illicit com- missions rests with the nurserymen themselves, and if they would co-operate in the same way that they did several years ago in abolishing the more than questionable practices then prevalent in the seed-trade they would be equally successful now. One very great difficulty however remains to be overcome: How can the Dutch merchants be prevented from oilering a discount to the gar- dener — a discount sometimes larger than what is given by our own firms ? We have called atten- tion to this matter before, and now we see that the Agricultural Economist is taking up the ques- tion. It is to be hoped that the newly-estab- lished Gardeners' Association will attend to this reform among others that are needed. The Hanley (Staffs.) Horticultural Show and Fete. — Mr. Joseph Kent having retired from the office of Secretary, Mr. Wm. PouLSON, Town Hall, Hanley, has been appointed to the position. Aberdeen and North of Scotland Agricultural College— Lectures to Gar- deners. — Under the auspices of this College several courses of lectures on various tubjects have been given during the present session. The Governors of the College have just arranged for another course on " The Elementary Chemistry of Soils and Manures " for the benefit of horti- culturists, professional and amateur. The lec- tures, which are to be delivered by Mr. James Hendrick, in the Agricultural Department of ! February 18, 1%~,.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 105 Aberdeen University, on the evenings of Feb- ruary 21, 28, Marcli 7, 14, 21, and 28 (Tuesdays), at 8 o'clock, are intended to assist gardeners and others in and around the city of Aberdeen to obtain scientific knowledge of the growth of plants, of what plants derive from the air, and of what they derive from the soil. The nature and com- position of the soil itself in relation to air, water, fertility, Ac, will be explained. Detailed infor- mation applicable to the special conditions o-equired in the case of gardeners in regard to the use of manures, natural and artificial, will be supplied, while the results of the best methods for combating insects, fungiis, and weed pests will be explained. Employers are recommended to make an effort to induce as many of their -cmj)Zoi/('s as possible to attend the course. No charge will be made for attendance on the lectures. English Holly in America.— We learn that considerable quantities of berried Holly find their way to the American markets. We can hardly look on this fact with complacency, as we fear it will entail the mutilation and spoliation of one of our greatest ornaments. For once we should be glad if our cousins would put on a heavy import duty — but then we have no Holly to sell ! SOLANUM COMMERSONI AND EDIBLE PO- TATOS. — In a recent issue of the Comptes Rendus M. Edouard Heckel speaks of Solanum Com- mersoni, Dunal, and its great variability under different conditions, and suggests its connection with the cultivated Potato, from which in some .of its forms it can hardly be disting^^ished. Mr. Heckel observes that; — "1st. S. Commersoni presents as many different forms as does the true S. tuberosum, therefore this species has certainly played an important part in the origin of our ordinary Potatos. 2nd. The striking parallelism ■existing between the same series of variations eeems to disprove that close connection between the two original species which was so strongly "Urged by Bakee (who grouped all the forms of tuberous Solanums as simple varieties of one type — S. etuberosum). 3rd. The complete and permanent variations supervening upon altera- tion in the surrounding conditions, especially evident when Commerson's species was grown in a moist situation such as it inhabits naturally, show how considerable is the range of variation in certain species, and how the phenomena of ' mutation ' observed by De Vkies may be so important that in two generations all the cha- racteristics peculiar to a species may be lost. 4th. The violet variety of S. Commersoni seems actually, by its great productiveness (63000 kilo- grammes per hectare) and its preference for damp soils, to suggest its profitable culture in marshy eoils, hitherto almost unproductive." HOME CORRESPONDENCE. \(The Editor docs not hold himself rcspoiisihlc for the 02nnions expressed hij his Correspondents. ) CUCUMBER DISEASE OR " SPOT."— Until last year I have not had any personal experience of the dreaded "spot" in Cucumber-plants, and I had hop ed that I should never again have a similar experience, but unfortunately the dis- ease re-appeared in the plants in the month of July ! As soon as I detected the small spots (about the size of the head of an ordinary pin at first), I dusted over the affected leaves with flowers-of-sulphur, with a view of destroying the fungus then on the leaves, as well as to render the latter less liable to further attacks. Finding that this did not have quite the desired effect, I cut the entire spots clean out of the leaves, or removed the leaves altogether where badly affected, but to no useful purpose, as the spots continued to spread not only in number but also m size — appearing on the young leaves as soon as unfolded ! In each case I observed that the " spot " appeared on the plants near the door at the colder end of the house (150 feet from the iieating apparatus). The disease generaUy appears after fire-heat has been dispensed with, say, some time in June, and sometimes before, when the quantity of fuel used in the furnace is not sufficient to warm the pipes at the top end of the house, with perhaps the same quantity of moisture distributed therein as when the water iu the pipes was heated to the boiling point the entire length of same. I may say that I have never heard of the " spot " attack- ing Cucumber plants in private gardens, and I would at the same time remind the readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle that in private places Cucumbers are generally afforded artificial bottom and top-heat tluring the whole period of growth. Hence their immimity from " spot." Moreover, the plants in private gardens are cropped lightly, the yo\mg fruits being thinned out, the object being to obtain a regular supply of a few dozen fruits a week from a given number of plants for, say, a period of six months, whereas the object of the grower for market is to take all the saleable Cucumbers that the plants under skilful and generous treatment are capable of yielding in as short a time as possible ; the plants too, being grown without bottom-heat of any kind whatever. Thus it will be seen that Cucumbers in private places and in market gardens are grown imder very dillerent conditions. As the result of my cogitations regarding the "spot" in Cucumber leaves during the last two sea- sons, I have arrived at the conclusion that a preventive, if not a remedy, is to be found in the vaporising of the Cucumber houses with sulphur once a fortnight from the end of April until the plants have done bearing. By the use of Campbell's Sulphur Vaporising Machine, every particle of leaf and stem growth will be finely and evenly covered with the sulphur deposit and with which the atmosphere is as a matter of course also impregnated to such an extent as to kill and further prevent the appearance of the fungus during the intervals indicated. No more moisture should be distributed in the Cucumber house, especially after the fires have been let out, than is absolutely necessary for the well-being of the plants. When the old ridges are removed from each house preparatory to starting a fresh batch of plants, sulphur should be burnt therein so as to kill any insect or germs of disease that may be in them, the wood and glass being then washed with water and the brickwork with hot lime, so as to make them clean and sweet before the new soil with which to form the ridges is wheeled in. I may say at once that, so far as my observations and con- clusions based thereon count, the cause of "spot" appearing on Cucumber-leaves is not to be attri- buted to the composition and condition of the soil in which the plants are growing under expert management, but, on the contrary, to the fact of unfavourable external as well as internal atmo- spheric conditions occurring at a time when the vigour and energies of the first batch of plants have become nearly exhausted through the pro- duction of heavy and continuous crops of fruit during the previous ten or twelve weeks, the plants being consequently more likely while in that con- dition to experience a check from a sudden and unfavourable change taking place in the weather after fire-heat had been dispensed with, than a batch of young plants just coming into bearing would be. Neither, in my opinion, is the remedy for " spot " on Cucumber-leaves to be found in the application of liquid nostrums at the roots. Viewing, from a practical point, the "Practical Directions for Treatment " given by Mr. George Massee in his article published in a recent volume of the Journal of tlie Royal Horticultural Society, entitled "To Protect Cucumbers and Tomatos from Fungus," and quoted in Mr. Owen Thomas's interesting article (p. l-SO), I am unable to see what possible good could result from the carry- ing out of the directions given in the above- mentioned article; such, for instance, as the advice given as to the watering of Cucumber- plants, when a fortniglit old, every third day for six weeks with a solution consisting of 1 oz. of sulphate of copper dissolved in 50 gallons of water, afterwards applying a stronger dose every fourth day. This advice should be carefully considered before being acted upon ; even the application of rain-water only to young plants a fortnight old every third day may have a bad effect. H. W. Ward. CEDRUS DEODARA VAR. ALBA SPIOA. — In reference to this variety (see p. 70), the trees are growing in a position facing the west, and until three years ago they were much protected from north-east and east winds. The two trees growing here came from Messrs. John Waterer & Sous' nursery, Bagshot. If Mr. Page happens to be in the viciuity of Ha5lemere at any time, I shall be very pleased to show him our trees. Thos. Harris Lower Orayswood Gardens, Haslemere. CRYPTOMERIA JAPONICA. — I have much jjleasure in giving your correspondent, Mr. A. C. Forbes, the cubic contents of the above tree, quarter girth measurement, which is 61 by 8 feet, 28 ft. 5 ins. over bark. The timber, however, is notsound. The heart isdecayedfor some lOft.from the base of the tree. The cubic contents would be much more if the tree tapered less. Growth has been less rapid for the last fifteen years, the tree not making more than from 12 to 11 inches, instead of from 18 inches to 2 feet each year, as formerly. I thank Mr. Bartlett for his note on the Pencarrow tree. Mr. Elwes WT?ites me that he measured one slightly larger at Killerton. Ifc would be very interesting to know the growth made by the Coollattin tree since 1891. C. Page, Dropmore Gardens, Bucks. ■ Since reading the remarks by Mr. Page and other correspondents, I have measured a specimen of Cryptomeria japonica growing in the grounds here. Its height is 45 feet and its girth 8 feet at 5 feet up, and 11 feet girth at ground line. The diameter of the branches is 35 feet. There is no account of the time it was planted, but from inquiries I have made it appears to have been planted by the late Sir Eichard Green Price, Bt., in 1862. W. Palliser, Norton Manor Gardens, Norton R.S.O., Tiads. JASMINUM NUDIFLORUM. — In answer to the enquiry on p. 90, I may mention that there are in these gardens two large plants growing in warm and favourable positions. As a rule both of them flower profusely each year. This season, owing to the absence of frost, the plants have presented a mass of well-developed and apparently perfect flowers for the past eight or ten weeks. In previous years I have never noticed fruits at any stage of growth, nor have I seen insects of any kind on the plants when in bloom. To-day I have examined several faded flowers, but did not discover one that showed any sign of fertilisation. Occasionally we fiad a bunch of berries on the large-flowering jvariety of J. ofiScinale, but this is quite the exception. //. Stark, Crag Head, Bournemouth. ST. JAMES'S HALL AND ITS HORTICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS. — The closing of this well-known ball for public purposes serves as a reminder that the first National Rose Exhibition was held here on July 1, 1858; and on September 23 in the same year a National Dahlia Show. Subsequent annual national exhibitions were held, either at the Hanover Square Rooms, the Crystal Palace, ic, and, though the National Rose Society and the National Dahlia Society were not formed for a few years afterwards, there is no doubt that the idea of permanent societies took its inspiration from what was done at St. James's Hall. Of those who took part in these two exhibitions forty-six years ago, how very few indeed survive ! B. D. THE GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND. — Coming fresh from the recent annual meeting of the sub- scribers to the Orphan Fund, I took the opportunity on the same evening, at a largely attended meet- ing of the members of the Kingston Gardeners' Society, to lay the claims of the Fund before them, and earnestly begged the Society to take some action in support of its objects. The pro- motion of a concert was not favoured, as here we are flooded with such entertainments. I suggested that a collection in small silver and coppers be made at each meeting of the members, and then at the expiration of the session the entire amount thus obtained should be sent to the Fund. That suggestion was so far favoureil that the hat was at once passed round, and Ss. thus col- lected. That so good a result will follow at each meeting I do not anticipate, but if some 2s. or 3s. be collected the strain on the members' pockets, and no gardener is rich, will be 106 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Febktjart 18, 19C5. infinitesimal. Nevertheless a series of regular meetings might enable a goodly sum to be realised during each year. I told the members that when the annual election of orphans took place they coiild ballot for the privilege of repre- senting the society as electors. If a society like ours conld, for instance, raise, say d£3, thus obtaining twelve votes, a good proportion of members would enjoy the privilege of being electors, and become keenly interested in the Orphan Fund and its operations. There are scores of these mutual improvement societies in the kingdom, as reports of proceedings in the papers from time to time show, but very few are subscribers to the Orphan Fund. Did all of them but make collections at their meetings fi'om time to time, in the way we propose to do here, a very large sum might in that way be added to the Fund's income yearly. A. Bean. EARLY PEACHES. — My experience with the variety Alexander quite agrees with that of Mr. Jordan. Some years ago, when taking charge of a garden in the Midlands, I found a young tree of "Alexander"' growing in the large Peach- house among several others. As usual with young trees it had made a quantity of strong sappy growths ; by judicious root-pruning and partial lifting it was brought into a bearing condition. When re-an-anging the large house a year or two later, the tree was moved into the early house, and produced a moderate crop the first season, the fruits ripening during the month of May. In subsequent seasons the house was closed early in January, and as a rule we had fruits of good size and splendid colour ready in the first week of May. The bud dropping propensities were greatly mitigated by due attention to watering the border, freq\ient syringings overhead, and affording abundant ventilation during the summer, autumn, and early winter months. I should not have the slightest hesitation in planting "Alexander" Peach for early forcing. H. S-, Boxirnemouth. I should like to support Mr. Jordan respecting Alexander Peach. Here at Castle Hill is a tree that was one of the first sent out. I believe Messrs. James Veitch & Sons sent it here for trial when the variety was first introduced, about twenty-seven years ago. It is in the early-house, and bears each year a good crop of Peaches. The buds do not drop, because we afford plenty of water to the roots, and we commence to force the tree very gently in the way Mr. Jordan recommended. Some of the fruits ripen in the first week in May, and specimens have weighed from 6 to 8 oz. each. I can endorse all Mr. Jordan has said with regard to drought being the cause of all the mischief. In visiting gardens, I have observed the com- paratively dry treatment of Peach-trees during the autumn and winter months, and have seen the same trees in the spring when the buds have dropped. Jno. W. Barks, Castle Bill Gardens, Jjletchingley, Surrey. — — We have had the varieties Hale's Early and Alexander for over eight years and they have not cast their flower buds. Neither variety shows such a profusion of flowers as do Eoyal George, Noblesse, Barrington, and other old English sorts, and, as Mr. Tomlinson states (see p. 91), some of the buds do not expand. They are trained on the front trellis of a curvilinear house, with trees of Royal George and Lord Napier Nec- tarine on the back wall. At one time we had a tree of Eoyal George also on the front, and we then used to close the house the first week in November, but it was as much as we could do to get a dish or two of ripe fruits the first week in May for a special function. Now we close on January 1, yet gather ripe Peaches as early as we did formerly, but they are from the variety Alexander. I think most Peaches and Nectarines cast their buds if planted in light, loose soil, and are not afforded abundance of water, especially after the fruit has been gathered and onwards. Out-door trees get more water at that stage than when in active growth. Our soil is stiff' enough for anything. It'. P. R., Preston. - THE GRAPE-VINE IN SOUTHERN ENGLAND.— As a subject that I have had in mind for many years, it gave me much pleasure to peruse Mr. Douglas's article in the Gardeners' Chronicle, February 4, on the cultivation of the Grape-vine on warm walls in our southern counties. That good Grapes can be obtained on out-of-doors Yines, if the culture is of the right kind and similar to that afforded by the old culti- vators quoted by Mr. Douglas, is capable of proof. I have myself observed, as a boy, excel- lent Sweetwater, Parsley-leaved and plain-leaved varieties. Black Morocco, and Miller's Burgundy, produced on a south wall in the gardens at Stanley Grove, now St. Mark's College, Chelsea ; at Eden Lodge, Kensington Gore, where my father was head gardener for several years ; and on the roof of Vine Cottage, which stood where the Albert Hall was afterwards built. That which was possible then is equally so at the present date, although there may now be a greater amount of smoke emitted from house and factory chimneys. The gardeners of two or three generations back were good cultivators of out-of- doors fruits generally, taking great pains with the manuring, pruning, and training of the same, seeing that glass structures of any sort were less common, owing to the greater cost of construc- tion, due to the heavy duty on imported glass and the consequent high price of that made in this country. Thomas Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, advocated the employment of " ground " vineries, which were simply stretches of span-roofed frames of any length, according to space and require- ments, with single rods of Vines shmg along at the apex of the ridge, about li feet from the ground-level, and the bearing shoots trained on either side at intervals of li to 2 feet, in the same manner as hcuse Vines on the short-spur system. The frames stood on a single or double line of bricks, as a means of preserving the wood- work from injury by damp. For affording extra space a trench similar to those thrown out for Celery was recommended. Rivers was a man of original and practical ideas, and to make the ground - vinery easily understood he constructed a number of them in his nursery as object - lessons for visitors. He also constructed "dug-out'* vineries having lean-to and saddle roofs, with and without heat- ing apparatus. The results were excellent in every way, although the means were of the roughest kind, no brick walls, and merely earth for the floors. He did not use the syringe much on his Vines, the moisture arising from the soil, more especially in the unheated vineries, being sufficient for the requirements of the Vines and keeping down red-spider, that plague in some gardens — in fact, the aearid could not live in the moist air of these structures. Of course the matter of ventilation received proper attention, and mildew was imknown. It seems a pity such inexpensive adjuncts to a garden have dropped out of use, for they served many useful purposes besides Grape-growing — such, for example, as the protection of saladings, early Broccoli and Cauli- flowers in autumn and winter, and all kinds of early things in spring, as Peas, Cauliflowers, French Beans, Cabbage, Lettuces, Onions, ie. F. Moore. HOLLYHOCKS. — It may interest your readers to hear that I make a specialty of growing the new type, which are annuals. The quick and luxuriant growth of the plants is not favourable to the establishment of the fungus. The seeds may be sown about the end of March, but if sown later of course they will not commence flowering so soon. Young plants_transplanted about the beginning of May will commence to bloom about the end of July. They will remain in flower until late in the autumn. The branches that have borne flowers must be cut away, otherwise all the energy of growth will be devoted to the ripening the seeds. It is also worth while mentioning that the plants are just as hardy as those of the other types of Hollyhocks, therefore plants may stand another year, but I prefer to grow them year by year. I send to your address some packets of seeds of each strain by sample post and beg you to send these for trials to some of your correspondents interested in Hollyhocks in order that they may try these new strains. It is necessary to mention that the double strain is still not yet so perfectly double as those of the best varieties of Chafer's Prize strains, but nevertheless the flowers are pretty nearly double, and ultimately I trust to have a strain that will compare with the best of any type of the biennial class. Frederick Eoemer. Quedlinburgh. [The seeds in question have been forwarded for trial at the garden of the Royai Horticultural Society at Wisley. Ed.] SOCIETIES. THE EOYAL HORTICULTUBAL. February 14. — It will be seen from the amount of space devoted in this issue to the doings of the RoyaI( Horticultural Society, that Tuesday last was an un- usually busy day. The attendance of Fellows is. alwayp greater on the day of the annual meeting, than it is at ordinary meetings of the Society, and exhibitors seek to improve the occasion by bringing to- the Hall as much as possible. The report printed below will show what an impor- tant display was made of Orchids, and the 0e('Hii> Committee reeommenfled as many as one First-class. Certificate, four Botanical Certificates, and two Awards of Merit to novelties. The collection of Orchids from Jeremiab Coi.MAy,. Esq., was of great magnitude and excellen<3e. The Floral Committee recommended four Awards* of Merit to novelties, but the Frcit AND Veget.\BLE Committee made no Award at all. All the Committees sat in separate rooms on the- first floor, but means should have^been taken to see- that suflicient room and seats were pro\ided for the- members. This will, we doubt not, be done on future- occasions. The Society's officers have had an extraor- dinarv amount of work to do during the past twelve- months owing to the change of offices, and have done it remarkably well, but in the near future a normaR condition of things may be expected to obtain. Floral Committee. Present : Geo. Faul, Esq. (in the chair), and Messrs^ H. B. May, C. T. Druery, Juo. Green, F. Page Roberts, (Rev.) C. E. Pearson, R. C. Notcutt, G. Rcuthe, Chas. Blick, Jno. Jennings, C. J. Salter, Cbas. Dixon, J. F. lIcLeod, W. Howe, W. Bain, Charlee Jeffries, R. Hooper Pearson, Herbert J. Cutbush, E. T. Cook, James Hudson, W. Cuthbertson, George- Gordon, W. P. I'homson, W. J. James, Harry Turner,, and E. H. Jenkins. Erica x A'eitchi, a hybrid from E. codonodes (hisi ~ tanica), was shown by Messrs. Robert Veitch & Son,. Exeter. A plant nearly 4 feet high and as much in, diameter was shown in flower from the open-air at Exeter. The flpwers are white, and the habit of the plant is more Uke that of E. arborea than E. codonodes. The Committee recommended that the variety be tried- out-of-doors at Wisley, it being very valuable if it wilL flower out-of-doors at this season. Mr. H. B. Mat, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton, set up a large collection of omamentaP. foliage plants— Codi;eums (Crotons), DracKnas, Ferns, Caladiums, Palms, Dieffenbachias, Begonia Rex, &o. A batch of Adiantum Farleyense occupied the centre of the group, and au excellent collection of Dracajnas was-- staged to the right of these plants (Silver Flora Medal). Messrs. Wm. CoTBnsn & Son, Highgate, N., put up- a liandsomc group of forced flowering plants — Mag- nolias, Lilac, Staphylea colchica, numerous species of Prunus and Pyrus, Spirrea prunifolia, Rhododendrons, &c. Magnolia Leime was noticed with its claret- coloured petals, also a grand plant of M. Halleana (Silver-gilt Flora Medal). Messrs. J. HiLL & SON, Barrowflcld Nurseries, Lower Edmonton, displayed a group of choice specimer.! Ferns (Silver Baiiksian Medal). Jlessrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's Road^ Chelsea, exhibited some excellently flowered plants of Primula >: kewensis, Eupatorium vernale, Coleus- thyrsoideus, Chciranthus x kewensis, and a large group- of pot plants of Loropetalum chinense. Rev. H. BrcKSTON, Sutton Hall, Derby (gr. Mr. Shambrook), staged a number of pot plants of Cycla- men. The plants were of large size, perhaps not as. compact as is desirable, but well and plentifully flowered (Silver Flora Medal). BIr. K. Drost, Kew Nurseries, Richmond, showed a number of plants of Hippeastruras (Amaryllis). Colour, form and substance of the flowers were all alike superior in quality (Silver Banksian Medal). Messrs. AMBROSE & SoN.s, Cheshunt, staged » miscellaneous collection of greenhouse plants, Cine- I S"EBETIABY IS, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 107 srarias, Carnations, Eucliaris sraudil!ora, Tulij », &c. ((Bronze Bauksian Medal). Messrs. Hugsh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park Nurseries, Enfield, staged a small exhibit of greenhouse subjects, Acacias, Ferns, Boronia megastigma, Orange plants in "fruit, &c. Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Richmond, . Siu'iej, included in their exhibit a new Dracena with narrow, vinous-coloured leaves, named The Queen ; several pot plants of Loropetalum cliiuense, &c. Chinese Primulas. Several of the leading firms of seedsmen displayed large groups of Chinese Primidas, and these, with their bright colours gave a very pleasing appearance to the Jiall. Messrs. James Carter & Co., Holborn, filled a side "of one of the long tables with a collection of these ilowers, exhibiting batches of plants in their respective -colours. The plants represented a verj' desirable strain •ol this popular flower. A batch of plants of the " stellata '" type occupied the centre of this group. The variety Princess of AVales was prominent (Silver Banksian Medal). As growers of the Chinese Primula, Messrs. Sutton .& Sons, Reading, are difficult to excel. For excellence ■of habit and for brilliancy and variety of colours, the group displayed by this firm was most remarkable. Each plant was shapely, with foliage in due proportion t£o the inflorescence. They made a pleasing impression, and gave evidence of the great care and judgment 'displayed in their cross-breeding, selection, and culti- vation. The collection entirely filled an extensive table, the groups on either side being marked off by ■a line of Cineraria plants running the whole length •of the table. Among the few varieties our space jjermits us to mention are The Czar (a handsome type, with deep lavender or blue-coloured fiowers). Crimson King (deep crimson), The Duchess hybrids of all shades of colour, The Pearl, and His Majesty (a hand- ;3ome, semi-double white variety) {Silver-gilt Flora Medal). Messrs. Cannell k Sons, Swanley, also made an imposing elisplay of these flowers. The strain is of a robust nature, with massive foliage and bold heads of ."flowers, a type which finds favour with many growers. The flowers are large and colours excellent, making .admirable subjects for decorative effect. The stellata type was largely represented in this collection, among •which was a new variety nameJ'Miss Ellen Wiilmott. Messrs. Cannell's strain of " Giant Mixed '' is com- iznendable (Silver-gilt Flora Medal). Mr. W. Paljier, Andover Nurseries, Andover, -Hants, staged a large batch of a double-flowered variety -of Primula sinensis named Queen Alexandra. This is •a tall, free-flowering variety, with soft, blush-coloured ^petals, the habit of plant being intermediate between •that of the ordinary and of the stellata type. The i-emaiuder of the table was furnished with plants of -tanother \'ariety named Island Queen, carrying flowers •of a re leasing soft pink colour f Silver Banksian Medal). A flne spray of flowers of aa interesting plant was •exhibited by F. A.- Be VAN, Esq., Trent Park, New Barijet (gr., Mr. H. Parr), in Bryophyllum calycinum. This plant freely produces bulbils from the edges of its -leaves, and is one of the best examples of a plant tha,t reproduces itself in that manner. An allied species, -B. crenatuni, was figured in these pages January 24, 1903, p. m. ALPINE PLANTS. A large exhibit of Alpine plants was set up by Messrs. yC. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, N., who -arranged their exhibit in a natural manner, introducing jjieces of rockwork in the grou)). Many choice plants were shown in flower. "We noticed Tulip Kauffmann- 'iana coccinea and T. K. aurantiaca ; Iris porsica, Danfordi, reticulata, Krelagei, and numerous other -species; Narcissus minimus, &c. -Messrs. Bakk & Sons, King Street, Covcnt Garden, ■contributed a good display of early -flowering species, such as Irises, Snowdrops, Anemones, Saxifrages, ■ Scillas, &c. Among other species of Narcissus, we tJioticed the delicate N. Cyclamineus in flower. The Fox Hill Hardy Plant Nursery, Keston, Kent, set uj) numerous pots and pans of such plants as Irises, Crocuses, Colchicums, Hepaticas, Saxifragas, Anemones, including many fine varieties and rare species. The collective exhibit [jresented quite a splash of colour. The charming Narcissus Clusii was noticed in flower (Silver Banksian filedal). Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, Wokiug Nursery, , Surrey, staged tliree boxes containing " iVlpines," including a large number of plants of Cyclamen Coum, and of C. ibericum in varieties. Irises were well displayed, I. Danfordi, I. Heldreichi, &c. (Bronze Banksian Medal). Messrs. Thos. Ware, Feltham, showed an excellent collection of Alpine and hardy plants in flower; Primula obconica and its varieties were prominent, Crocuses, Irises, Hepaticas, Saxifragas, and a host of similar plants, all presented in first-class condition, made a commendable exlubit. Plants of Sarracenia flava were shown in flower (Silver Banksian Medal). Messrs. JOHN Peed & Son exhibited numerous pans of Saxifragas^, most of tlio garden species being represented, also Sedums, Sempervivums, Hutchinsia alpina, &c, A bo.x contained succulent plants such as Aloes, Echeverias, Opuutias, &c. The Misses Hopkins, Blere, Knutsford, Cheshire, staged a few Christmas Ruses, Blue Primroses, &c. Messrs. J, Cheal & Sons, Crawley, arranged a small rockery in which weru jjlanted numerous Alpine and early- flowering hardy plants (Bronze Flora Medal). The Guildford Hardy Plant Nursery, Millmead, Guildford, contributed a small number of hardy plants and " Alpines " in flower, Galanthus Elwesii, Hupatica triloba, Bulbocodium vernum, kc. Awards. Carcx Vilinorini.~A ]'Iant with extremely narrow green leaves was shown under this name by Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent. The numerous leaves droop arch-like in a most graceful manner, aud the plant when cultivated in 3-inch or 4-inch pots would be very suitable fur furnishing vases. The leaves appear only to get about 5 inches high before drooping, and 5-inch pots as shown are therefore rather too large to obtain the iiest effect from the plant (Award of Merit). Crocus chriisanthus wiricty. — Miss Willmott, V.M.H., exhibited a ]>lant with white flowers, appa- rently near to the varii'ty albidus. It had bluish- purple marks on the exterior of the three outer segments, and a yellow-culuured base in the interior of the flower. The flowers were exceedingly pretty, and the bright orange - red - coloured pistil very effective (Award of Merit). Priianla sinensis ^^ His Majesty.'''' — This is a double- flowering variety of the Chinese Primula, similar to those frequently exhibited by Messrs. Sutton k Sons, but having larger, finer flowers of pure white. Shown by Messrs. Sutton k Sons, Reading (Award of Merit). Rose Prince dc Bulfjaric. — A very beautiful Tea Rose of warm piuk coloxir, the outer petals becoming pure white, of good form and at present proving itself a first-class varietj' for forcing. Showji by Messrs. Paul & Sons, The Old Nurseries, Cheshuut (Award of Merit). Orchid Committee. Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., in the Chair ; and Messrs. Jas. 0'Brien(Hon. Sec), DeB. Crawshav, Francis Wellesley, J. \V. Potter, R. Brooman- White, W. Bo-xall, W. H. Young, H. J. Chapman, J. W. Odell, H. G. Morris, A. A. McBean, H. T. Pitt, G. F. Moore, J. Douglas, W. Cobb, H. A. Tracej-, J. Charlesworth, H, Ballantine, W. A. Bilney, F, W. Ashton, T. W. Bond, H. Little, W. Bolton, and Harry J. Veitch. The great attraction was the very fine group of Orchids occupying the luoad end staging and running the whole width of the Hall, staged by Jeremiah COLaiAN, Esq., Gatton Park (gr., Mr. AY. P. Bomid), and for which the Society's Gold Medal was awarded, and also the Lindley Medal, for excellence of culture. The group was made up of the greater part of the plants referred to in our report of the Gatton Park Orchids at p. 100, and the effect! k-e staging, with a backing of Palms and carpeting of Maidenhair Ferns and other foliage plants, was very cleverly carried out by Sir. Bound. In the centre was a group of Epiden- drum X Boundii, fronted by a white L;elia anceps. On each side, high up at the back, were collections of hybrid Calanthes, the Dendrobiums forming the body of the group. Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Egham (gr., Mr. Ballantine), was awarded a Silver-gilt Flora Medal for a ver^' fine group of rare Orchids. The Odonto- glossnms were well represented, the spotted crispums having for their best the perfectly - shaped, finely- marked O. c. Veitchianuni, still one of the finest ; O. X Adrians Victoria Regina, a great l>eauty ; O. Hallii xanthodon, fine O. x Wilckeanum, O. nc- vadense, tand others ; two arrangements of the hand- some Calanthe x Baron Schriider and C. Regnicri ; Cypripedium x Baron Scliioder, very finely marked with purple ; C. x Latiiamianum, C, x Calypso, C. insigne Sander;e, and other Cypripediums, each with several flowers ; varieties of Cattleya Tjrianas, including the old and fine C. T. Russelliana ; Dendro- bium aureum album and some pretty hybrid Dendrobes ; Masdevallias, Sophrouitis grandiflora, &c. Messrs. Charlesworth k Co.. Heaton, Bradford, secured a Silver-gilt Flora Medal for a very excellent group in which the middle portion was made up of fifty fine and well -bloomed specimens of Phahenopsis Schil- leriana, with one plant of the rare P. sumatrana. At the end of the group, were selections of fine hybrid Orchids, including the showy and favourite Lielio- Cattleya x Charlesworthii, L.-C. x Sunray, L.-C. X luminosa, L.-C. x Andromeda, L.-C. x Mjra, Cattleya x Octave Doin, Brasso-Cattleya x Digbyano- Warscewiczii, and other hybrids of Brassavola Dig- byana. The Odontoglossums included some good Q crispum, a very handsome and finely -shaped O. X ardentissimum heavily marked with rose-purple,, Dendrobium atroviolaceum, Trichopilia suavis, &c. Messrs. Sander k Sons, St. Albans and Bruges, were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a small group of very remarkable species and hybrids. The species included the superb new Cymbidium Sanderi and the new white Vanda Watsoni (for both see Awards), good Odontoglossum crispum including spotted varieties, Spathoglottis Amesiana, and several singidar botanical. Orchids. The finest of the hybrids were the noble Odontoglossum x Harryano-crispum Rex (Harryanum X crispum Rex), raised at Bruges, and which in its very fine colour shows the effect of the fine blotched O. cris- pum Rex. The flowers on the small plant measured 4^ inches diagonally ; the "sepals pale yellow nearly covered with large red-purple blotches; petals similarly coloured, but with smaller markings ; lip white, with rose-purple spots in front of the yellow crest. Other pretty hybrids were O. x blando-nobile (blandum X nobile (Pescatorei), white, spotted with purple: O. X loochristyense Sander's variety, very rich in colour ; good O. x Wilckeanum, Cypripedium x Helen II. pulchrum, &c. NouMAN C. COOKSON, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam (gr., Blr. H. J. Chapman), secured a Silver Flora Medal for an interesting group of Odontoglossums, L;elio-Cat^ tleyas, kc. The Lielio-Cattleyas, most of which had the rare yellow L.-C. x Ernesti Princess Olga as one parent, were grown and flowered in three years from the seed. They were of pretty shades of yellow tinged with pink, and with ruby -crimson fronts to the labellum. The varieties shown were Ladio- Cattleya x Oakwood Alpha (Ernesti Princess Olga x L. Schroderas), L.-C. -■ Oakwood Beta Lord Rothschild x callisto- glossa (resembling L.-C. x callistoglossa in colour), L.-C. X Oakwood Gamma (L. Jongheana x L.-C. x Ernesti Princess Olga), and L.-C. x Oakwood Delta (C. Scbruderse x L.-C. x Ernesti Princess Olga). The group also contained the handsomely blotched Odontoglossum crispum ^Lindeni, O. c. xanthotes Cooksoniifi, O. c. Cooksonianum, O. c. purpurasc^ns, and the bright yellow, brown-blotched O. x Prince of Orange, and the fine purjile-blotched O. x Wilcke- anum Sibyl. Also Cypripedium >: Orion bellum, cream-white with numerous purple spots. Messrs. Jas. Veitch k Sons, Chelsea, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a neat group including Lielio-Cattleya x Pallas, L.-C. x Violetta, L-C. x warnhamensis, L.-C. x Haroldiana, La?lia x Mrs. Clratrix, the bright yellow Dendrobium x Ophir, two forms of Calanthe gigas, the variety excellens very fine in colour ; and C^pripediums, Phala?nopsis, kc. Messrs. Hugh Low k Co., staged a small group of very pretty forms of Cattleya Trianie, Cypripediums, and the showy Laelio- Cattleya x Captain Percy Scott Bush Hill Park variety. Mr. J. Cypher, Cheltenham, had a very pretty group in which the varieties of Dendrobium nobile were very fine, including D, n. Cypheri, D. n. no- biliu.s, D. u. Araesiie, D. n. pulcherrimum, &c. ; also Cattleya x caluramata, Masdevallia gargautua, Cypri pedium X aureum virgiuale, C. x Swinburnei, &c. Franci-s Wellesley, Esq., Westficld, Woking (gr., Mr. Hopkins), showed Cattleya x chococnsis "AVcst- field variety,'' a charming white flower with distinct purple and yellow markings in the throat ; C. Triai^a; " Laura," white with lemon-yellow disc and slight pink tinge on the lip, &c. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bait.. Burford (gr., Mr. W. H. White), showed Dendrobiiun x Euryalus pvu-puiascens, as fine in colour as 1). nobile nobilius ; tjie pretty Cypripedivim x Watsoni, and three others (see Awards). W. JL Al'PLKTON, Esq., AN'ostonsuper-Marc (gr., ftlr. Brooks), sent Cyiuipedium x Leeanum Applc- toni?*, and C. Daphne (cxul x Charlesworthii). 108 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Februabt 18, 1905. Mr. John Robson, AltrinchaTn, sent Cypripedium x aureola, of the C. x aureum clasp. F. AV. Moore, Es-q., Roval Botanic Gardens, Glas- nevin, Dublin, showed the fine jellow Mormodes badium luteuni. J. Bbadshaw, Esq., Soutbgate fgr., Mr. Wbite- legge), showed Ljcaste Skinntri "Glorv,"' andCattleja Trianfe *' Fairy Queen." H. T. Pitt, Esq., Eostlyn, Stamford Hill (gr., Mr. Thurgood), showed Cypripcdium Eoxallii Rosslyn variety, and Laelia anceps Schroderiana Rosslyn variety. Captain G. L. Holford, C.I.B., Westonbirt (gr. Mr. Alexander), showed Sophronilis rosea. H. S. GooDSON, Esq., Putney (gr. Mr. G. E. Day), sent Cypripedium x Katheriiie (insigne Sanderte x superbiens). De E. Crawshay, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks, showed the creamy-white, brown-spotted Odontoglossum x loochristyense "Theodora," a marvel of good culture, bearing a very strong spike of floweis and a large seed capsule on the last spike ; also L;elia anceps HoUi- dayana rosefieldiensis, and Theodora. C. J. Lucas, Esq., "Warnham Court (gr. Mr. Dun- can), sent Lselio-Cattleya x bletchleyensis "Eric Lucas," of fine colour, and good specimens of Cypri- pedium X Lathamianum superbum, and C. Calypso, Warnham Court variety. Awards. First-class Certificate. Cyvihidium Sanderi. — A grand new species of totally distinct character, imported by Messrs. Saxder & Sons, St. Albans. The 2-feet-long scape rises erect and bore on the top in this case three large flowers in some degree resembling those of the bestC. cburneum, but structurally different. The jilant flowered on an imported spike, and four other flowers on the spike were not developed. Flowers Si inches across, sepals and petals white, slightly tinted with pink and with small purple spots at the base. The lip, which is the Jaeautiful feature of the flower, is large, the side lobes curved to the column, the front lobe expanded, white with a most beautiful tracery of rose-purple dotted lines on both side and front lobes. From Messrs. Sander & Sons, Botanical Certificates. Va)ida Watsoni, from Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., and Messrs. Sander & Sons. — See Gardat^rs' Chronicle, February 11, p. 82, Growth of V. Kim- balliana. Flowers white. Odontoglossum liliijloruiny from Baron ScHRiiOER. — An extremely rare Orchid of the form of O. ramosissi- mum. Flowers pink with a few piirple spots. Dendrohium cymhidioidcs, from F. MoORE, Esq., Glasnevin, Dublin.— This is the true plant, and very distinct from the one so named in gardens {Gardencn^ Chronicle, January 7, p. 15). Sepals and petals yellowish ; lip white marked with purple. Dendrohium aiaulum, from Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. — A graceful white Australian species. Awards of 5[erit. Cypripcdiuvi x LconifV (Crai^enicr callosum x insif/nc Harejield Hall), from J. F. Craven, Esq., Beeches, Keighley, Yorks (gr., Mr. Corney).— A sfately hybrid, much resembling C. insigne Ilarcfield Hall, but broader and with more white in the dorsal sepal. Cypripedium X Honnoria- {Drurii x Godefroi/(v leu- cochilum), from W. M. Appleton, Esq. — Flower ivory- white dotted with purple, and bearing a purple line up the petals. Cultural Commendation. To Mr. W. H. AVhite, gr. to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., for a large pan of Sophronitis grandiflora with sixty flowers. To Mr. Stables, gr. to De B. Crawshay, Esq., for Odontoglossum triumphans leopardinum with a branched spike of thirty-five flowerf--. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present: Jos. Cheal, Esq.. in the Chair, and Messrs. S. Mortimer, Thos. Arnold, Ed. Beckett, Alex. Dean, F. Q. Lane. AV. Pope, Jas. Gibson, Geo. Keif, G. Reynolds, H. Markham. W. H. Divers, G. Norman, J. Willard, Geo. "Wythes, Owen Thomas, J. Lyne, W. Foupart, P. C. M. Veitch, H. Parr, and Chas. Foster. A magnificent collection of Apples was staged by Messrs. G. Lunyard & Co., Maidstone, Kent. The collection comprised most of the best-known varieties, exhibited in the best possible condition, and formed probably one of the finest displays of these fruits ever seen at such a late period in the season. The excep- tional season no doubt accounted for the possibility of showing such meritorious fruit ; but to this must be added the skill in cultivation and the perfec- tion of means for keeping the fruits. The display was awarded a Gold Medal. Although Apples were so excellently displayed from Kent, a collection from Herefordshire put u]) by the King's Acre Nurseries, Ltd., King's Acre, Hereford, was very meritorious, for the colour and finish of the individual fruits were extraordinary, such varieties as Blenheim Pippin being rosy-red all over, reminding one of such highly- coloured varieties as "Worcester Pearmain {Silver-gilt Knightian Medal). Oswald P. Serocold, Esq., Taplow Hill, Taplow (gr., Mr. R. Bullock), staged thirty-five dishes of Apples, principally of dessert varieties. The speci- mens were not over-large in size, but were of excellent finish, some fruits of Blenheim Pippin being especially note woi thy in appearance (Silver Eanksian Medal). ANNUAL MEETING. The one-hundred and-first Annual General Meeting of this Society was held on Tuesday afternoon last at the Society's Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., K.C.V.O., V.M.H., the President, occupied the chair, and there was a large gathering of Fellows. After the minutes ot the last annual meeting had been confirmed, about a hundred new members were elected. The Report of the Council was taken as read. The President, in moving its adoption, said : It is now my duty to make a few remarks with regard to the Report that has been circulated amongst the members of the Society. In the first place I think that we, who have the good fortune to be Fellows of this Society, have every reason to congratulate our- selves upon what has taken place during the Centenary year. I have before me a letter from a very old Fellow of the Society, the Rev. Honywood D'Ombrain. He is not only an old member of the Society, but as he has arrived at an advanced age he is, unfortunately, unable to be among us. He says : "When I contrast the present flourishing condition of the Society with what it was in the dark Jays at South Kensington, I cannot but rejoice at the change which has taken place." There is nobody in this room who does not heartily reciprocate the feelings expressed by our friend ; and when we consider the great interest taken in the art and craft of Horticulture throughout the country and throughout all ranks, I think it must be a subject of congratulation that the Society has arrived at its present position with every prospect of main- taining that position. The Hali>. AVith regard to the doings of the past year, of course the central occurrence was the opening of this Hall and this building by his Majesty the King and her Majesty the Queen. His Majesty has invariably shown a warm interest in the welfare of the Society. He subscribed to the funds for building this Hall, as did his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. His Majesty was also present at the show in the Temple Gardens last year, accompanied by the Queen. Her Majesty was like- wise present at tlie very beautiful show held in the grounds of Holland House. We have now seen a little of the capacity and the utility of this Hall, and we know that, although it l)rovides us with abundant accommodation, it does not provide us with any too much. AVe know that it is admirably lighted, and that it is well pro]K>rtioned. (Sir Trevor Lawrence here read a paragraph from one of the leading papers testifying to the excellent acoustic properties of the Hall.) It is impossible to pass from the subject of the Hall without saying a word of regret at the absence of Baron Schroder, to whom we owe so much. The Baron is in the Riviera, and I am sure we are all glad to learn from his gardener that his health is better than it has been. He unfortunately caught a severe cold when he was going out, and was confined to his bed We are proposing to put up, a tablet to commemorate the connection of Baron Schroder with this Hall Not only has the Barou subscribed most liberally to our funds, but he has Imrne the expense of [transferring and] furnishing the Lindley Library — a costly operation^and he has used his influence with his friends to induce them to subscribe towards the building fund. The Report of the CounciJ enters so largely into all that is to be said with regard to the present position of the Society that it will not be necessary for me to detain you at any length, WlSLEY. I may say a word with regard to one other matter of the greatest possible importance during the past year, and that is the acquisition of our new garden. The Society owes a great debt of gratitude to our friend Sir Thomas Hanbury for his generosity in this matter. In common, I dare say, with many here present, I had the pleasure of knowing the late Mr. Wilson for many years, and on many occa- sions I had the pleasure of going round his most interesting gardens. It is hardly possible to imagine- that a more fortunate chance should have occurretl than that which enabled Sir Thomas Hanbury to purchase this laud and to present it to the Royal Horticultural Society. I can bear emphatic testimony to the excellence of the gardens. I went over the ground on two or three occasions during tha spring, and on every occasion it was a perfect feast of interest and fiowers ; and I strongly recommend those who desire to see Primulas, Irises, and a vast variety of hardy plants, to go there during the proper seasons. Of course, it has been necessary for the Society to do a great deal at Wisley. The garden, as carried on by Mr. Wilson, was a hardy plant garden, and for the purposes of the Society it has been necessary to b\iilc3 ranges of hothouses and plant-houses and residencca for the Superintendent and the fruit foreman. A good deal of money has been spent in that diiection- Fortunately we have been able to obtain for the remainder of the Chiswick lease a sum of about £4,700, and that will go far to cover the outlay at Wisley. Then with regard to paragraph 7. which refers to the desire of* the Council to establish a laboratory for scientific and experimental research in matters relating to plant life- Sucli a laboratory can hardly be said to exist at present in this country, unless you include Rotbamsted, which for agricultural purposes has been of the greatest possible value. We wish to have a laboratory at Wisley to deal with more strictly garden interests ant? garden work. Already a very eminent gentleman has offered to institute some experiments there. It will cost us very little beyond a small honorarium. I am not Ai liberty to mention the details at present, but I can assure you it was an offer which would be received with the greatest possible acclamation by everybody in. this room. Deputations. The position of our Society in the world of horticul-^ ture is more and more being recognised by foreign nations. That is shown by the desire of foreign' Societies, when they have meetings, anniversaries, jubilees, or whatever the occasion may be, that we should send deputations to take part in their celebra- tions. We have received an invitation from Paris to attend the great International Horticultural Exhibitioii which is to be held in May, 1005. That has been accepted, and, among other good things, it will help to accentuate, so far as horticulture is concerned, the Vcniente cordiale which already exists between our- selves and our neighbours on the other side of th« water. Similarly, we have received an invitation to* take part in the Jubilee of the Royal Caledoniaa Society. Then we all deeply regret the loss of some verr eminent members. One of them, whose memory will always be green with us, and to whom we were greatly attached, was the Dean of Rochester, whose death is a very great loss to horticulture : and there are the Rev. C. Wolley-Dod, Mr. Hermann Herbst, and othera TuE State of the Society. The Report speaks of the gradual increase of the Society. The numerical increase during last year wa» 914, and the total number of Fellows and affiliatetl societies is now 8300. There are no fewer than eight pages of aftiliated societies, and more and more the country societies are endeavouring to associate then> selves with this Society. The Journal. I do not think it would be possible to exaggerate ono* important branch of the Society's work, and that is the Journal. The Journal, as you know, is a model of what such a production should be. It is very different from what it was a few years ago when we first left South Kensington. Enormous strides have been mad>a in its utility in every shape and way. The Journal contains not only a vast number of most interes-ting papers, lectures and reports, but it is also very admir- ably illustrated, and I venture to say the labours of our Secretary in editing the Journal and in furthering the interests of the Society, it would be impossible t*> exaggerate. I venture to say that if anyone were- called upon to purchase an illustrated volume of suck dimensions, he would probably have to pay a guinea for it. The Council are naturally very anxious to again thank the contributors to the Journal — the writers, the compilers of abstracts, and others ; their work is of the greatest possible value, and that value is recognised by all kindred societies which ex- change their publications with the Royal Horticultiual Society. The Lindley Library. There is one thing in connection with paragraph IT I must not omit. Not only has the Library been liberally furnished by Baron Schroder, but we have received a donation from a source from which we couM hardly have expected. I mean from the Trustees of the Veitch Memorial Medal— a donation of £50 towarda- the expenses of the Library Medals. As to the list of Awards and Medals, I must express- the opinion (and I do so with all reserve and with Febeuabt 18, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 109 humility) tliat our Co nm t ets are a little too libeial with tlieir Medals ami Certificates. I think they total 1,10'.). The truth of the matter is that every ntw iiitroductioH, or some cui-ious plaj of Nature, whether it he an interesting seedling or a b} hrid, or whatever it may be, invariably makes its ditut at tbe meetings of this Society, and that naturally leads to the gi anting of a very large number of CortiEcates. The Shows. I think our show to-daj is a type of what our Society is doing. It is hardly possible to exaggerate tbe interest which our shuws are constantly creating. "We are deeply indebted to Mr. Jeremiah Colman, who has been kind enough to rob his houses for the time to show what really can be done. Mr. <_'olman has given pleasure to a vast number of people, and I am quite sure you will agree with me that we owe him and others a deep debt of gratitude for furnishing our shows with such admirable exhibits. Colonial Fruits. One new departure in regard to the exhibits has already- been made, and that is the exhibition of Colonial fruit. The exhibition we had during the winter was organised at very short notice, and we hope in I'utuie that we shall have a much more complete and more interesting exhibition than on that occasion. The next show of colonial fruits will take place on March 30 and 31, and we have every reason to believe that the Colonies will make a very consideralih' show, as tliev can do. Not only is the matters uf intei est to fniit-gntwers, hut it is a very important element in the fooil sujjply of the people. Through our Colonies we can get. almost througho\it tbe year, fruit and vegetables which con- duce so much to the health of the people, withoiit having to wait for the seasons to come round. The Summer Show at Chelsea. After some protracted negotiations we have made arrangements to hold our Summer Show in the grounds of the Royal Military Hosi)ital at Chelsea, on July 11, 12 and 13. Although that place is not, perhaps, so central as the gartlens of the Inner Temple, I believe it will be found that there is ample space, and that, after all, the efforts we have made to secure the place will be in the best interests of the Society. Thanks to Lord Ilche.^teu. I do not think I ought to leave this subject without asking you, the Fellows of the Society here present, to give a very hearty vote of thanks to Lord and Lady Ilchester for their kindness in past years. "We could hardly expect that Lord Ilchester would be able to let us have his grounds every year, and we are greatly indebted to him for what he has done in the past. The Committees. There is one duty that remains to me. I ask you to give your cordial thanks to our Committee?. The Committees are composed, as probably most of you are aware, of the best experts in the kingdom in their various departments. They travel, many of them long distances, at their own expense, with no charge whatever to the Society. They give valuable time and valuable knowledge to the Society, and we owe them a very great delt of gratitude. The Staff. It is impossible to pass away from this subject with- out asking you also to give a hearty vote of thanks to the staff. We have got the best secretary that any horticultural society ever had, or I would venture to say ever could have. Not only does he work in a way which sometimes astonishes me, but I really should be at a loss to adequate!}' explain to youthe burden which has been thrown upon his shoulders during the past year or two. We are greatly indebted to him, not only for that, but for the kindness, courtesy, and consideration with which he does his work ; and I am glad to say— and he knows a great deal more about this than I do— that the general staff are always willing to take any amount of trouble, and will work so long as there is work to be done without any questions as to hours. That thought never arises. Finance. I will conclude by saying that we have every reason to be thankful for the present position of the Society. We have now an income of .tl4,000 a year. We made a profit on our working last year of over £5,000, and the ordinary income from subscriptions is not quite £10,000, but it is £1,000 more than the ordinary ex- penses. I think if you take these facts into considera- tion there is every reason to be satisfied with the position of the Society ; and so long as we continue to work simply and solely for the advancement of Horti- culture, so long will the position of the Society be maintained. Mr. Arthur Sutton seconded the adoi»tion of the Report. He said on that occasion of meeting for the first time in their own Hall they could not be too thankful for the extremely happy issue as the result of past deliberations. He should like to propose a most heir'y voie of thanks to the Council, wiio had canied them through this unique work. But for the Council the «ork would not have been carried through. Thev knew that at one time the Council did not seem to gau^e the feelings of the Fellows, but since they saw what the Fellows wished, and heard some reasons in su|)poTt of those wishes, the Council immediately took tbe matter up and carried it through successfully. One thing ought to be mentioned, if during the last two or three years any one had left the Council through not lieing quite able to fall in with all that was being done, they had at last rallied roimd the Council. Only one or two matters called for reference. He hoped if any- one present had not yet contributed towards the Build- ing Fund, they would at once communicate with the treasurer. Of course they were delighted to have Wisley (^iardens. The lesson of to-day in matters horticul- tural was that nothing was impossible; what was needed was united action. They had heard that a sub- stantial sum had been received on account of Chiswick which went a long way towards the expenses of reorganisation. One matter not alluded to by the President was the loss the Society had sustained by the death of Mr. Lloyd- a member of the Council. He was sure they would not like to separate without recording their deep gratitude for what Mr. Lloyd had done during the years he had been in othce. Among the new Vice-Presidents there was ore name they were sijecially pleased to see, and that was the name of Sir John Llewelyn. Amongst the new holders of the Victorian Medal of Honour, there was one whom they delighted t<.» honour, although they might not agree with all that that gentleman said in the jiapers — he referred to Mr. Alexander Dean. The Chairman had referred to invitations from foreign countries. It had often occurred to him and others that although they frequently received invita- tions, they seldom extended the same courtesy in return. He was looking forward with more hope than ever that this year or next the Council would see their way to inaugurate the largest international horticultural exhibition that had ever been held, and that they should return some of the hospitality to those who had been so kind to them in the past. Statement by the Trea.surek. Mr. J. CfuuNET Fowler, the Treasm-er, next made his statement. He pointed out that the Council could not, of course, bind themselves to the figures in the Report, because it might be found in furnishing tlie hall and offices that some small expenses would have to be incurred, or that some small structural alteration might be necessary. Well, what was the position of the Society ? Their funds, thanks to the genercsity of the Fellows, had largely increased during the past two years. At the end of 1!)02 the funds, including life compositions, were £10,000. At the present time the funds amoimted ti £51,119, an increase of £35,120 in two years. This large figure was accounted for as follows :— Donations to Hall, £25,178 8,^. Hrf. ; donations to garden, £3 1 10s. Vtd. ; life compositions and entrance fees, £1,010 17*-.; surplus income, £8,800; total, £;35,120 OS. 2d. Aa to the new Hall, the cost would be as nearly as possible £40,000, and that was the figure which they originally considered they would have to spend. He thought it was satisfactory to them that their estimate had not been to any material extent exceeded. AVith regard to Wisley Gardens their cost of making, after setting off the amount they received for the Chis- wick Gardens, would be about £000, a very small sum whicli could be easily met in that room. The increase in the funds during the two years having been £35,120, and the Hall having been erected and the Garden equipped, they were £5,145 worse off than they were in 1002. If these two large undertakings had not been carried out they would havL- been £0,'.»00 17s. better off, so that adding these two figures together the sum of £15,052 'is. lOd. was required before they could say that the Hall and Gardens had been respectively built and equipped by the liberality of the Fellows and at no cost to the Society. The amount was divided into : — leficiency on new Hall account, £14,390 Os. lOrf. ; deficiency on equipment of Garden, £055 IJs. ; t n 1 he made once more the appeal which he m ide last year to Fellows to come and helj>. It was not the duty of a Treasurer to beg, and he did not like it any more than most Treasurers di<], but he sup]ioseers who got very little more than the Journal . iov , their money. If they curtailed the Journal, and no reduced exi)ense, some of the country FeUows would be very much grieyed, and he was afraid they \F,oiild cease to lielong to the Society. With regard to Wisley, the whole matter had heen very seriously considered. The trustees of the Gardens haid been jdaced upon the Gardens Committee by the Council, who thought it was the only suitable pompli- luent, that could be paid these gentlemen. As to the Gardens themselves, he thought the situation infinitely superior to that at Kew, and the soil not inferior. Nobody wlio knew Kew could think very muclj of the soil, and the Director there was always remarking : " What can you expect from such a deplorable soil?" The Report and Accounts were then adopted. The following were nominated as Vi('e-1*kewiL)ENTs, vi?^. :7-The Right Hon., Jose]>h Chamberlain, M.P. : the Right Hon. The Earl of Ducie ; the Right Hqu. L9WI Rothschild ; .Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart. ; 8h- •John T, DillwyuLlewelyn, Bart. The following were nominated as Officers : — Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., K.C.V.O., V.M.H.,, Presi- dent';' Mr. tl. Guruey Fo.wler, Treasurer; Rev, W. Wilks, M.A., Secretary ; Mr. Alfred C. Harper, Audi- tor. ., No other names having been i)ro])osed there was co"u.sequently ho need to ballot, and these gentlemen were duly elected. ^ , . Sir John Llewelyn, Bart., moved, and Mr. Druert seconded, a resolution of thanks from that the first annual me.eting of FeUows in the pew Hall, to Baron Schroder and everyone else who had worked to carry the scheme to,' a .successful issue. The motion was carried with accjamation. , . ' Captain Holforf), one of his Majesty's equerries, moved a hearty vote of thanks to the President. Mr. W. A. EiLNEY seconded, and the motion was carried with cheers. The President, in reply, expressed his thanks.' character (Award of Merit) ; also Cypripedium x Briton, a hylirid between C. x Calypso x C insigne Harefield Hall variety (Award of Merit). W. Thompson, Esq., Stone, Staffs, (gr., Mr. Stevens), sent a small but very good collection of Odontoglos- sums. O. X Vuylstekei Walton Grange variety being magnificent, was unanimously awarded a First-class Ctrtificate. A fine plant of O. crispo x Harryanum with a spike over a yard long, with two branches, was awarded a Cultural Certificate. A Vote of Thanks was awarded for tlie group. A. Warburton, Esq., Haslingden (gi-., T. Raven), exhibited one of Ids own hybrid Odontoglossums, which was the product of crossing O. crispum var. Lindeni with a rose-coloured variety of O. crispum ; the flower was small but well marked, and no doubt when tlie plant has grown strong it will be a valuable addition to the spotted forms (Vote of Thanks). Messrs. Sander k Sons, St. Albans, esliibited Cypripedium x Orion var. bella, a very pretty and distinct hybrid between C. coucolor and C. insigne var. Sanderie, showing the characters of both parents very jdainlv (Award of Merit). Messrs. H. Low k Co., Enfield, staged a few good plants, including Cypripedium x Mrs. Tautz (Award of Merit). Cypripedium x Minos Low's variety was shown also in a well-grown and well- fiowered plant. A Vote of Thanks was awarded for group. Father Crombleholme, Clayton le-Moors, exhibited Cypripedium x Esperauda. P. W. BRITISH GARDENER S' ASSOCIATION. In addition to those previously reported, meetings have been held at the following places : — "At Waltham Cros^ on February 7, Mr. J. Weathers, Hoctipultural Instructor for Middlesex, in the chair, Mr. W. Watson, Hon. Secretary of the Association, beJDg the princijial speaker, it was unanimously resolved to form a local branch of the Association, and gardeners resident in the district who are interested in the movement are requested to communicate with Mr. W. Isbell, 5. St. Mark's Road, Bush Hill Park, Enfield, who has agreed to undertake the duties of Hon. Secretary (pro, tem^) At .Croydon, also on February 7, there was a well- arfctended meeting of members of the Croydon and District Horticultural Mutual Improvement Society and others, to bear Mr. C. H. Cuitis, wlio is a member of the Committee of Selection of the iiVssociation. The objects and programme of the Association, so clearly eKjwundcd by Mr. Curtis, met with the apjiroval of the meeting, and it was agreed further to consider the formation of a local branch of the Association at the next meeting of the Society upon February 21. At Norwich, on February 8, the February meeting of the East Anglian Horticultural Club was addressed by Mr. George Gordon, V.M.H., as a delegate from the Association. At Leeds, ui)on, FeVuuary 11, a large gathering of the gardeners of the district assembled at a meeting held under the auspices of the Leeds Paxton Society, to hear Mr. George Gordon, V.M.H., speak upon the " British Gardeners' Association." As a result of the mepting the following , resolution was carried unani- moiisly : "That, a branch of the British Gardeners' Aitsociation be formed in Yorkshire, with Leeds as a. centre, and that this meeting pledges itself to give every possible support to the movement." A Com- mittee was elected to actively carry on the work. j\Ir. George Carver, ,75, Northbrook Street, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, was elected Hon. Secretary. As Secretary of the "Professional Gardeners' Friendly Benefit Society,'" Mr. Carver is well known and respected throughout Yorltshhe, and all Yorkshire gardeners interested in the movement are asked to comuumicate with him. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENGLAND ORCHID. February 2.— S. Gratrix, Esq.. Whalley Range (gr., Mr. Cyjjher), exhibited some Cyj>rij)odiums, the best of which was C. x Euryades " Gratrix's variety," a very handsome form. Dendrobium x Ainsworthii " Gratrix's variety " was shown from the same collec- tion. Mrs. S. Geatrix exhibited Cattleya Trianse var. Mrs. S. GratrJK, of good form, and of very pleasing Dr. Henry would shortly give a paper at the Club upon "Forests wild and cultivated," illustrated with lantern slides. Mr. Jeffries responded, and gave some interesting particulars of the early history of the Club. Mr. George Monro, in proposing " The Visitors," referred to the frequent use of the Club-room by dif- ferent societies, and said that it should be known as "The National Home for National Societies." The National Potato Society and almost every other national society used their room. Mrs. Monro had just suggested to him that the art of cooking Potatos was as important as that of cultivating them, and he therefore proposed that a National Potato Cooking Society be formed, and that Mrs. Harry J. Veitch become the first President. Other toasts included "The Chairman," proposed by Mr. H. J. Veitch, who said that the dinner was the seventh horticiUtural function he had attended during the day; "The Secretary," &c., and being interspersed with songs by "The Georgian Singers," and a humorous recitation by Mr. C. T. Druery, the proceedings were greatly enjoyed. THE HORTICULTURAL CLUB. Annual Meeting ano Dinner. February 1-4. — Much enthusiasm was shown by the members of the Horticultural Club on Tuesday last, the occasion being the annual meeting and dinner. The annual meeting commenced at 5 P.M. in the Club room. Hotel Windsor, Westminster, when a satisfactory report was presented by the Committee. Diu"ing the past year ten members have resigned, chiefly owing to the distance at which they reside from London, but nine new members were elected. The papers read at the monthly meetings included the following : "The Use and Abuse of Botanising," bv the Rev. Prof. Henslow, M.A., F.L.S. ; "Back to the Land," liy T. W. Sanders, F.L.S. ; "Himalayan Rhododendrons for English Gardens," by Sir JouN Llewelyn. Bart. ; " Indian Primulas," by Sir Geurue Watt, K. C.S.I. ; "Gilbert White and the Solbornc Society," by Prof. Boulger, and "Syria and the Holy Land," by Joseph Cheal. In July the members and friends visited East Burnham Park, the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Veitch, and the annual outing there was much enjoyed. The party also inspected some fine trees at Langley Park. The report was accepted with satisfaction. All tlie oflicers were re-elected, excei)ting that Messrs. AV. A. Bilney and Chas. E. Pearson were elected members of the Committee in place of the Rev. H. R. Burnside and Mr. Hudson, who have retired. A cordial vote of thanks was passed to the Hon. Secretary, Mr. E. T. Cook. About eighty ladies and gentlemen sat down to dinner at G P.M., and Sir Jno. T. D. Llewelyn, Bt., President of the Club, presided, supjiorted, on the right hand by Mr. Harry J. Yeitch, and on the left by Mrs. Veitch. Owing to the kindness of Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, the tables were plentifully and tastefirUy adorned with plants and flowers, and the event being also graced by the presence of a large nmnber of ladies, the scene was a very pretty one. After the Royal toasts had been honoured, Mr. Geo. Paul proposed that of "The Royal Horticultural Society " in a capital speech, in which he referred to the events of that day, and to the flourishing condition of the Society. The Comicil and Fellows were now one body and one party ; grumbling had ceased. jVnd why should it not ''. They had now a HaU that was all they could wish it to be, and a garden that was likely to become all they could wish it to be. He anticipated the time when Wisley would become the centre of hor- ticultural teaching in this country, when England, too small for farms, would be a vast garden. Mr. W. A. Bilney responded, and said that was the sixth occasion that day upon which he had had to do with horticulture, such was the work that befell members of the Ro\ al Horticultural Society's Council. Mr. Bilney went on to speak of intlividuals who had helped very materially in Royal Horticultural Society work recently, including Mr. H. J. A^eitch and l\Ir. H. B. May. The speaker quite agreed with what Mr. Paul had said in regard to Wisley, and stated that the Council that day had decided to accept the offer of a famous gentleman to commence scientific research work there. Sir John Llewelyn proposed "Tlie Horticultural Club," and reviewing the work of the (>ast year showed that much good work was being done. Referring to the former Secretary, Rev. H. H. D'Ombrain, Sir John said those present would be glad to know that he was in good health, and that the Committee had that day sent a telegram of congi'atulation to the reverend gentleman. NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM. A meeting of the Executive Committee was held at Carr's Restaiurant on the 13th inst. Sir. Thomas Bevan presiding. The Secretaiy read a letter from Mr. C.E. Shea, President, regretting his inability to attend the Annual General Meeting on the 6th inst., thanking the members for re-electing him as President, and for their resolution of sympathy with him in his illness. A letter was read from the Secretary of the Crystal Palace Company confirming the dates of the three shows at Sydenham, namely. October 4 and 5, Novem- ber 1, 2, and 3, and December G and 7. A financial state- ment was submitted showing a balance in hand of over £40. An election to seven vacancies on the Floral Com- mittee was the next item on the agenda. A letter was read from Mr. C. Gibson, of Mitcham, an old member and exhibitor, who for many years had occupied a seat on the Executive and Floral Committees, withdrawing his name from the latter body. The Secretary was instructed to convey to Mr. Gibson the regret of the Floral C'ommittee that circumstances had occasioned his withdrawal from that Committee, and to express to Mr. Gibson an appreciation of the excellent services he has rendered to the Society for many years. The following were re-elected on the Floral Committee :— Messrs. G. Prickett, W. Higgs, J. Lyne, and R. Kenyon ; and Messrs. C. H. Curtis, G. Gover, . and C. J. Elhs were elected to fill vacancies. Judges , were appointed for the three exhibitions in the present year. It was resolved that a list of new varieties of the leading sections of Chrysanthemums be prepared for the Annual Report, Messrs. C. H.' Payne, Crane, and Curtis undertaking to prepare the same. The Market Show Committee made a report to the effect that a market show be held on December 13 next on the same lines as that of 1U04 ; that the exhibits be confined to Chrysanthemums ; that application be made for the use of the French Flower Market, Covent Garden, for the use of the show ; that the last Committee be re-appointed with the addition of some leading market growers and salesmen. The report was mianimously passed. The Schedule Revision Sub-committee made a report showing some alterations in the wording of several of the classes at the October show ; while the conditions of the Aftiliated Societies' Trophy Class in November was materially changed in the hoi>e that the alteration would bring an increased competition in the luture. The condition now reads, " A table of Chrysanthemums representative of not fewer than four sections, to fill a table space 18 by 3 feet, the flowers to be shown in vases. It was resolved that the annual outing during the summer take the form of a water-trip from Staines to AVindsor, application to be made to His Majesty the King for permission to visit Frogmore. *^^* In our report of the annual meeting last week, we should have stated tha; Mr. Thos. Bevan was re- elected Chairman of the Executive Committee, on the proposition of Mr. Foster. ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND. February 10. — The annual meeting of the sub- scribers to the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fimd was" held on Friday, "the 10th inst., at "Simpsons'," Strand, London. There was a moderate attendance. Mr. H. B. May, Chairman of the Committee, presided over the proceedings. Report of the ExECUTn'E Committee. In presenting their Seventeenth ^Vnnual Report, the Executive Committee has again the pleasiu-e of congratulating the supporters of the Fimd upon a year's record of steady progress and enhanced useful- ness. They could have heartily welcomed a larger measm-e of financial support, especially from the class whose children alone derive the benefits of the Fimd ; but in the face of the " hard times " it is a matter for Febeuabt is, 190r..] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. Ill congratulation that the revenue {exclusive of legaciet<, kc.) shows an increase of some fiS;"}. As will be seen from the accounts presented here- with, there has been a slight increase in annual sub- scriptions, which is unhap]>il_v considerably more than counterbalanced by the falling off under the general heading of donations. This the Committee greatly de])lore3, for the reason that the deficiency is attri- butable mainly to the smaller amounts obtained by means of collecting boxes, the sale of flowers, &c,, at exhibitions, musical entertainments, and the opening of private gardens for the benefit of the Fund. On the other hand, the collection at (and in consequence of) the Annual Festival amounted to a larger sum than has resulted from any festival held since 1896. The payments made on account of the children show an increase over the amount paid in the previous year of £74 IO5., largely owing to the increased number of candidates who required assistance while waiting for election. The Committee consider it extremely desirable that they shoulil. be placed in a position to meet the numerous pressing applicantions for assistance made under Rule 11, and again earnestly appeal to those most nearly interested in the matter for a larger measure of support to enable them to do so. It is the Committee's experience that in most of the cases that come before them the poor widows and children are left almost destitute, and most pitifully apply for help, that the Committee has been glad to grant assistance when possible, and to give ]>romptly, thereby enhancing its value, but with so many claims coming upon them, ib woxild seem that in the near future it may happen that this much-needed help will not be forthcoming without some increase in the annual subscriptions. The number of orphans who have been elected to receive the benefits of the Fund during the past sixteen years is 180, and the total amount expended in allow- ances dvu-ing the same period is £13,522 lis. f'ifZ. At the commencement of the year the number of children receiving the full weekly allowance was eighty-eight, and ten were added to the list by election at the annual meeting. The number on the Fimd on December 31 was ninety-three, while twenty-nine of the candidates waiting election were receiving tem- porary assistance. The usefulness of the Fund has never been made more apparent than is evidenced by the greatly in- creased number of candidates seeking election at this meeting, and it is a source of keen regret to the Committee that the funds at their disposal do not justify them in recommending the election of more than fifteen — fourteen by election in the usual way, and one by resolution to receive the allowance from the "Emma Sherwood Memorial." With a deep sense of gi'atitude the Committee once more acknowledge the munificent support accorded to the Fund by its Treasurer, BIr. Sherwood. In addition to a most generous annual subscrij>tion, Mr. Sherwood provided the means for placing a child on the Fimd at the first election held in 1SS8, and has since main- tained another child for ten years, by an annual pay- ment, as an "Emma Sherwood Memorial." To these benefactions Mr. Sherwood has added a munificent gift of £500 to endow the "Emma Sherwood '' Memorial in perpetuity ; and the Committee feels assured that their heartfelt thanks to Mr. Sherwood will be shared in by every well-wisher of the Fund, and doubtless also by the poor orphan children for all time to come who will benefit under the trust. The ^bmual Festival held on May 17, under the presidency of Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., K.C.V.O., again proved a most gratifying success. It seemed Bpecially appropriate, in the Centenary year of the Eoyal Horticultural Society, that the PrcHident of that Society should occujn" the chair and plead the cause of the poor orphan children of gardeners ; and the Com- mittee most gratefidly acknowledge the great service which he rendered the Fund on that occasion, as his sympathetic appreciation of the good work done by the Fund and his warm-hearted appeal for aid in its support resulted in a sui>scription list amounting to £818 18s., the largest amount collected at any Festival since 1896. With very great pleasure the Committee make the announcement that the next Annual Festival will take place at the Hotel Cecil on Thursday, May 11, when, for the first time in the history of the Fund, the chair will be occupied by a Scottish nobleman— the Eight Hon. the Earl of Mansfield having most kindly consented to preside on that occasion. The Committee feels assured that the well-known interest which Lord Mansfield takes in horticulture and arboriculture will ensure a record attendance, and that they will have the pleasure of welcoming many of their northern friends, and of receiving the cordial support of all interested in the welfare of the Fund on this occasion. With very sincere regret the Committee records the death of one of the founders of the Fund, and for some years one of their most esteemed colleagues, in the person of Mr. Herman Herbst, of Kichmond, whose genial presence in Committee and whole-hearted interest in the Fund at all times and seasons will remain a clierished memory with all who had the pleasure of being apsociated with him. A generous i)enefactor during life, Mr. Herbst did not forget the poor chilJren in death, haviug left a legac}' to the Fund of £100. To the numerous local secretaries who coutiniie to assist the Fund, often at the cost of much labour and inconvenience to themsehcs, and not infrequently under somewhat disheaitening circumstances, the Committee again tender their warmest thanks ; and especially do they desire to place on record their cordial acknowledgment of the great service rendered to the Fund by Mr. R. Scott, gardener. Jloorfield, Manningham, who from the inception of the Fund has been Local Secretary for IJradford. and who on leaving the district has, much to his regret, been com- pelled to resign. Mr. Scott has ever been most energetic in pressing the claims of the Fund upon his neighljouring brother gardeners, especially at the meetings and exhibitions of the Bradford Chrysanthe- mum Society, and the Committee much regrets the loss of so enthusiastic a felluw-worker. The members of the Cummittee who retire by rotation are Mr. W, R. Ahh^rson, Mr. George H. Earr, Mr. George Cuthbert, Mr. William Howe, Mr. John Lyne, Mr. William Poupart. Mr. T. W. Sanders, and Mr. W. P. Thomson, and all being eligible, offer themselves for re-slection. To the Auditors, IMr. IM. I'owan and Mr. P. Rudolph Barr, the best thanks of the Committee are again tendered for their valued services in auditing the accounts, fllr. Barr is the retiring auditor, and is nominated for re-election. CASH STATEMENT Receipts. £ J. il. S. s. d. To Balance last Accouut 8.32 7 9 ,, Subscriptions : General ... 269 10 3 ., ,, Local Secre- taries ... 62 2 6 321 12 C| „ Donations : General 123 16 10 Local Secretaries 12 3 6 — 139 4 ,, Special Gift by N. Sher- wood, Esq., to endow tlie "Emma Sherwood Me- morial" .=.fjO ,, Legacy: H. Herbst, Esq. ... 100 „ "Emma Sherwood Me- morial" 13 ., Annual Dinner 817 18 ,, Advertisements in List of Subscribers 27 19 „ Dividends on Stock and Interest on Deposit 321 10 h „ Income Tax returned 15 8 3 £.3,088 16 6 Note.— Investments. 3 per cent. London & County ConsoU- dated Stock £7,240 15 10 3 per cent. Canada Stock 2,000 L. &. N.-W. Kailway Preference Stock ... 340 u Great Indian Peninsula Railway Guar- anteed 3 per cent. Stock 514 Thomson Memorial Trust: East Indian Railway B. Annuity of £14, cost 430 11 2^ per cent. Consols 380 12 2 Expenditure. By Allowances to Orphans „ Grants in Aid „ Emma Sherwood Memorial ., Annual Binner ,, Secretary's Salary „ Printing and Posting List of Subscribers ., Printing and Stationery ... ,, Bent and Insurance ,, Annual General, and Com- mittee Meetings .. Postages .. Bank Charges ., Sundry Expenses (Petty Cash) £ s. ,198 5 lis 15 13 d. £ «. d. 1,330 193 i 11 125 42 2i> 3 8 3.=. 1 17 9 8 IS 8 9S 15 1 Balances : Cash at Bank ... Cash onDeposit Cash in Hand ... JI48 14 7 225 133 11 £3.088 hi 6 Having inspected tlie Securities and examined the Books and Vouchers supplied to us, we hereby certify the above Account to be correct. P. RiDor.pn Baer J , „;,/^,.. Fcbruarijl, liiOo. M. Rowan S ^"''"'"''■ The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the Report, congratulated the subscribers upon the fact that, although the times had been hard in tlie past year, the receipts to the Fund liad been increased. At the same time the Committee was alarmed at the disproportion between their income from annual sub- scriptions and those from donations, annual festivals, and other more or less precarious sources. The re- sponsibilities the Committee were called upon to undertake increased by leajw and bounds ; they were that day only able to elect about one-half of the candi- dates, although' all were deserving of relief. Tlie powers vested in the Committee of helping candidates whilst waiting for election, by granting them 2s. Ori. l>er week, had been employed with beneficent resnlfcb, but unless more financial support was forthcoming, it appeared likely that this could not be continued, at any rate in the degree that was now done. The Annual Festival might not always prove such a " bumper " [source of income] as it had previousl}' been, and then where would they bo V H« (tbe Chairman) pleaded for more annual subscriptions from gardeners and employers of gardeners. An income derived from such subscriptions would furnish a mere satisfactory basis for the Fund to rest upon. Mr. May gratefully alluded to the good service rendered to the Fund by Sir Trevor Lawrence by the interest and sympathetic support he gave when pre- siding at the last annual festival dinuer^an event that proved so successful. In connection with that dinner the Secretary (Mr. AVynne) wrote to the lady members of the Royal Horticultural Society, setting forth the claims of the Institution, and asking their help ; but although there are about 502 such members, the amount received from them was har. Mr. W. H. Keaky, for eleven years Gardener at Carlton Hall, Saxinundhani. as Gardener to Sir Hl'iiH \\Y.'CDHAM, Royate Lodge, Petersfield, Hants. Mr. Mm. RoiiERTS, for over two years Foreman at riclamere House Gardens, Northwieh. as Gardener 10 RoscoE Brunner, Esq , of Behnont Hall, Norlli- wich. Cheshire. [Thanks for eontribution of 2.s'. to the Gardeners' Orphan Fund. Ed ] Mr. F. Sherwell, recently employed at Messrs. John Peed & Son's Streathnni Nurseries, as Head Gardener at "St. Marys," Wokingham, Berks. Mr. A. E. Wallace as Gardener to J. Gwvnne, Esq . Kenton Grange, The Hyde, N.W. Mr. G. PA(iE, late Gardener at Sihvood Park. Ajeot, Berks., and previoiisly of Rossett Holt, Harrogate, a? Gardener to G. S. Lypaout, Esq., Nynehead Court, Wellington. Somerset. Mr. G. .1. Dymott, for the past year and ten months Gardener to (f. D. Newton, Esq., Croxton Park, St. Neots. as Gardeuei' to Henry adaims, Esq., Cannou H ill. Bray, i'aidenhcad. Mr. Thomas McMikn. Foreman in the Gardens, Bella- e'rnm, Beauly, N.B., and previously Foreman for over three years in the Gardens. Oakmere Hall, Ilartfcrd. Chesbire, as Gardener to Captain Havvkes, Achn.iyairn House. Invcrnesshire, N.B. Mr. A. E. UORTON, liite Gardener to H. H. Flatten, Esq., Harwood Hall. Upimnster. as Gardener to T, L. Boyd, Esq., North Frith, Tonbridge. Mr. G Preston, late General Foreman, The Grove Gardens, Stanmore, as Gardener to Sir William Crump, Glenthorne, Harrow Weald, Middlesex. Kr. Henry Bprioot, late Foieman at Clicvenini.' Park Gardens, fevenoaks, Kent, and recently employed in Messrs. John Peed & Son's Nui-series. as Gai- c'ener to Tl.e Lady Waechter. The Terr.aee House. RichmoEd. Surrey. Mr Clarke, reeenlly employed at The Streatham Nur flies of Messrs. John Pekd.S-.Son. as Gardi nev to J -t. .Mami 1, E-f| , RLtlanil Lodgn, Briilon, S.W Apples : D. F. There are two 'well - known varieties of Apple to which the word " Duchess " might apply. One of these is Duchess's Favourite, an early dessert Apple of rich red colour, grown in considerable quantities in Kent for the supply of the London market. The other is Duehess of Oldenburg, also an early ripening Apple, used by some for cooking and by others lor dessert. The skin of this Apple is greenish-yellow in colour, but streaked with irregular markings of red, very dif- ferent to the unbroken colour of Duchess's Favourite. Which of these is meant by "Duchess" we cannot be sure, but should be inclined to think that it is Duchess's Favourite. Books: J. V., Holland. There is no book in the English language especially for the teaching of business correspondence for young gardeners. Carnation Seedling : W. T. The flower you send has no special merit, and is inferior in quality to others already in commerce. Carnations: F.P. We think the circumstances you mention are suffieient to account for the appearance, but we also see traces of red -spider and of thrips. — A. 0. F. We find traces of eel- worm in the leaves. Turn them out and bake the soil. Charity: A. G. The postal order for Is. 6d. has been placet in our collecting-bDS for the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution. Currant Shoots : W. ic J. B. The shoots you enclose are affected with the Currant-bud mite. See illustration in our issu; for January 14, p. 31. Gardener's Notice: Mona. IE the gardener devoted his whole time to the service, and worked in the house occasionally, we think he would be entitled to one month's notice. Glasshouses in Nursery: F. 0. We are not aware that the phrase " 500 feet run of glass " has any other meaning than the obvious one. This is that if the houses were placed end to end they would extend for a length of 500 feet. By such a phrase no indication is afforded of the width of the houses or of the character of the roofs, which may be span-shaped in some and sloping from a wall in others. If the word " rixn " were omitted the sense and meaning might be the same, but its employment deBnitely indicates that square feet are not intended. Grubs in Mint Eoots : T. W. The grubs or larviB are those of the garden swift moth, Hepialis lupulinus. Your better course will be to dig up the roots and transplant them on fresh ground, taking care at the same time to remove all the grubs you can find and destroy them. As a means of preventing the moths laying their eggs on the newly planted ground you might soak some old rags in paraffin and place them at intervals among the plants. This should be done early in May ; or if practicable you might protect the plot with freshly tarred fish-netting. Apply to the infected ground a good dressing of lime and soot, and fork it over. Hyacinth Bulbs : G. C. The bulbs are swarm- ing with bulb-mites. Destroy the bulbs by fire, and bake the soil before you use it again (see p. -to of our present volume). The plant is Helxine Soleirolii. Lady Gardener: E. C. C. D'O. If you will apply to Mrs. T. Eothera, The Gardens, Burton Joyce, Notts, she will furnish the particulars you require ; or write to Messrs. Eamsbotham & Co., Bletchley Nurseries, Bucks. Names of Fruit : C^dtus. Tower of Glamis. — R. W. 1, Hoary Morning ; 2, Striped Beefing ; 3, Gipsy King. — Eiffel. 1, Minchull Crab ; 2, Annie Elizabeth. — JK. G. Canning. Langton Nonsuch. — C. L. B. 1, Gascoyne's Scarlet Seedling ; 2, Borsdorffer Seedling ; 3, Kibston Pippin ; 4, Cox's Orange Pippin ; 5, Castle Major ; C, Tom Putt. Names OF Plant: 3. A. Tulip Couleur ponceau. — L. McC. (from last week). Trachelosper- mum jasminoides var. variegata. — Cultus. Jacobinia chrysostephana. — W. D. 1, Begonia manicata ; 2, Strobilanthes anisophylla ; 3, Isoloma hirsutum ; -t, Adiantum gracillimum. — E. W. Cordyliue species, leaf only; Pteiis serrulata cristata ; Asplepium bulbiferum. The last-named is the Pern which bears young plants on the fronds. Why not number the specimens ? — F. C. P., York. Cattleya Trianie. — W. H. H., Zeeds. Odontoglossum gloriosum of the best type. — A. R. 1, Odontoglossum Lindleyanum ; 2, O. luteo-purpureum ; 3, Masdevallia tridactylites. — /. P. A very fine variety of Cattleya Triana^. — C. P. You shoiild number the specimens. Pteris longifolia ; Fuchsia procumbens, with fruits. Tetramicra (Leptotes) bicolor the Orchid; Acokanthera speetabilis, the white flower; Sedum carneum variegatum. — C. J. P. 1, Codiseum (Croton) trilobum Disraeli ; 2, C. augustifolium major ; 3, C. irregulare ; 4, C. Weismanni ; 5, C. pulcherrimum ; 6, C. spirale. — A. H. B. Iris reticulata Krelagei. — Constant Reader. Varie- ties of Camellia japonica. — J. H. P. 1, Juniperus communis ; 2, I'acsonia Van Volxemi ; 3, Eetinospora plumosa of gardens ; 4, Thuya gigantea, the true plicata ; 5, Cotoneaster microphylla ; 6, Escallonia macrantha. — W. R. 1, Thuya occidentalis ; 2, Thuya gigantea, the true plicata ; 3, T. orientalis var. ; 4 and 5, Cupressus Lawsoniana ; G, Juniperus excelsa. Potting Cattleyas : T. A safe time to repot the specimens of the large-flowered Cattleyas is when young roots are proceeding from the newly-formed growths. The plants should be kept rather dry until well advanced in growth. Over watering in any stage of growth is very detrimental to most Cattleyas. Potatos for Naming : Knighton. We cannot undertake to name varieties of Potatos. Send them to a trade grower. The Propagation of Clematis : Desperandum. Clematises are easily increased by grafting. First of all obtain good healthy roots upon which to work the scions. If you have any old specimens in the garden, or plants of the common specits, C. flammula or C. vitalba, it will be an easy matter to dig up a supply of roots, the pieces of which should be from 4 to (j inches in length, about the thickness of a quill, and if well furnished with fibres so much the better. The scions may be taken from old as well as from new wood, but the latter is I preferred. Each scion should be limited to one joint or a pair of eyes, just below which a wedge-shaped cut or a simple straight cut rather less than 2 inches, long should be made, and the scion then immediately placed in position and securely tied with narrow matting in a damp condition. They will then be ready for potting-up, and in order to get the roots into small pots it will be necessary to wind them round, but in doing so be careful not to loosen or injure the scions. It will be advis- able to plunge the pots in cocoa-nut fibre or tan in a light propagating ease kept closed and having a temperature of about 65° to 70°. Sprinkle the pots overhead with a fine rose water-can occasionally. If water collects on the undersides of the glass it should be wiped off with tiffany every morning, or damping of the plants will result. As growth increases a small stake should be applied to each plant, air admitted by degrees, and later on the plants should be placed in a cold frame. Tulips Diseased: G. V. 0. The plants are attacked by a fungus allied to the one that causes the Snowdrop disease (Botrytis galan- thina). All diseased bulbs should be destroyed, and the remaining ones dusted with flowers-of- sulphur. See Gardeners' Chronicle for March 2, 1889, p. 2. Communications Received. — Jno. T. (you do not furnish us with the necessary details of your appointment)— C. B.— Mill Hill— J. C. W.— Improver— C. S. & Co.-G. K— W. H. E.— X. Y. Z.-W. C. W.- J. C. & Co.— G. W.-L. G.— W. W. P.-W. H.-C. H. S.— H. W. W -R. P. B -J. M.— 11. L.-W. J. V.-G. W. R. — W. W.-Il. P.-C. H— H. Smith-F. J. C— G. B.— J. H. •v.— M. L. (next week)-Harrison Weir-W.G. a. — D. R. W.— A. D.. Birmlngliam. {Por Markets and WeaLlier, see ji, vi.) ■ Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle." brudbury, Agiiew St Co., Ld., PriiUurs, London and Tonbcidg Febkcaet 25, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 113 -i^T^ ^^=^^ THE No. 943.— SATUItDAY, Feb. 25, 1905. CONTENTS. Aquatic plants, new ... Apples ... 115, 116, Apples, seedless /zalcas, graftiog £ooks, notices of— Beehives and Bee- keepers' Appli- ances Journal of Agi-icul- tural Science Publications re- ceived Vegetables and their Culture ^'olonial notes Cranberries for mar- ket supply Cyclamen, proliferous Cymbidium Sanderi ... Ferns, tree, iu the open Fruit register •yardening, the plea- sures of Hall, the Royal Horti- cultural Harper AdamsCollegc Horticultural and Agri- cultural over - sea supplies for January Market gardening ... Measures, market ... ■Onions, ascarcily of... Orchid notes and gleanings- Orchids at Burford Peaches, early (Peai*, Virginic Baltet . Pears, stewing, the paliie of 'Ma- Pelargonium dame Crousse " Plant - collecting in China Potatos Scaphyglottis Cog- niauxiana Science, cultural Seed-packing Shrubs, transplanting Societies- Garde ner&' Debating Linnean ... 120, Koyal Horticultural (Scientipr CoinniiUfr) Royal Meteorological AVest Indian Agricul- tural Conference... Spraying fruit-trees ... Tomato trade, llie Under mount, Bon- church. Isle of Wight Vauda, a new species of V^egetables— Rotation of kitchen garden crops Wallflower, a white ... Week's work, the— Apiary, the Flower garden, the Fruits under glass... Hardy fruit garden Kitchen garden, the Orchid houses, the Plants under glass... Welbeck, newgardener for in 12.'. 121 120 )2t 124 126 126 120 12ti 12(5 121 121 124 119 Hit lilt nil lis lis ll» ILLUSTRATIONS. Cyclamen flower, an iulcre^ting malformation in a Cymbidiuni Sanderi, a nevv species from Auuam ... Group of a stellate variety of Primula sineusis. grown at Undcrmount, I.W. (Supplemental y Illustration). Ivy leaved Pelargonium used for decorative effect on a house-front at Ventnor Vanda Watsoui, a new species having white Uowers Wilsou, E, H., portrait of THE PLEASURES OF GARDENING. THE manifold eDJojments which horti- culture can confer are not confined to any special season of the year, otherwise in all probability I should have chosen at this period a different theme. Doubtless the most memorable floral inspirations are chiefly experienced during the beautiful seasons of spring, summer, and autumn. In January and February wo have the pendulous grace of the Snowdrop, flowering on the grave of winter like a living prophecy of the silently approaching spring. In March and April shine steadfastly upon our vision the golden glory of the Daffodil, with its fragrant companion, Narcissus ornatus, illuminating and transfiguring by their sun - like influence our gardens and lawns. Summer gives us the grandeur of the Oriental Lily and the loveliness bt the luminous Rose; while autumn, whose colours are those of the sunset, has radiant Dahlia and Chrysanthemum beau- ties peculiarly her own. But not only art of the Yangtsze valley. Wilson had been accustomed at Kew to the handling of seeds, and when in April, 1.S99, he sailed for China via America, he was given twelve months to learn what he could of the Chinese flora from Professor Sargent, of Boston, U.S.A., and from Dr. Henry, then in the service of the Chinese Customs. An acknowledgment is due to Sir William Thiselton-Dyer for selecting Wilson, and an equal debt is due to Professor Sargent and Dr. Henry for the knowledge they hel|)ed Wilson to acquire. Wilson arrived at Hong Kong in .lune, lw99, and after an adventurous trip to Sczemao, in Yunnan, undertaken to meet Dr. Henry— during which time he obtained Jasminum primulinum (see Gard. Chron., March i!8, 1903, p. 197)— he returned towards Shanghai to start on the main journey. Fully equipped, and with definite written instructions, Wilson left for Ichang in February, 19IK), a house-boat being his resi- dence for all that summer. In the follow- ing .\pril he found Davidia involuorata (see Garilenirs' Chronicle, April 11, ^1903, p. 2.35), the tree for which he was especially sent. The "Boxer" riots were disturbing, but Wilson dis]ilayed considerable courage and did not leave. During 1901 the high mountain ranges north - west and south of Ichang on the Hupeh-Szechuan boundary were explored, and large quantities of seeds, bulbs, and dried specimens were obtained by Wilson iw TEE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Febkuakt 25, 1905. and sent home. Amongst those wliich up to the present have proved the more striking from a gardening standpoint, are Davidia involucrata, Astilbe Davidii, Clematis mon- tana rubens, Seneoio elivorum, S. tangu- ticus, Buddleia variabilis var. Veitchiana, Actinidia chinensis, Neillia sinensis, Acon- itum Wilsoni, Artemisia lactiflora, Pinus Arniandi, Spirsea Henryi, Viburnum rhiti- dophyllam, Brandisia raoemosa, Deutzia discolor, Aconituni scaposum var. pyrami- dalis, Corydalis thalictrifolia, C. Wilsoni, numerous and various Vines, Maples, Spiraeas, Rubuses, Magnolias, Limes, Birches, Pyruses, Koses, &cums, &c., promise a good supply of bloom, some of specimens being already advanced in spike. One grand specimen of Angrwcum modestum S.anderianum, which has been in the collection twenty years, has fourteen large, fleshy leaves and four long spikes, and other rare species are about to bloom, including some very singular species of Angraecum. The new Vanda Watsoniana is in bud, and the unique V. X Marguerite Maron in robust condition. The cool-houses have the Odontoglossums in fine health. Bright colour is given to the houses by a number of the brilliant scarlet Sophronitis grandiflora, among which is the original Burford specimen grown from a small plant obtained six- teen years ago and now finer than ever and bearing over sixty flowers and some buds. This plant has obtained two silver medals and has been "--=«t. Februaey 2r, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. IIT much admired when ehowD. Others in flower are several good forms of Oncidium varicosum, one having three spikes of bright-yellow flowers, with red-brown blotch on the lip ; some pretty pans of Pleione humilis, with many white-and- rose flowers ; the bushy evergreen Epiden- drum montanum, with many heads of white flowers, and various other pretty species. Seedling Odontoglossums are being raised very satis- factorily. Formerly they were thought to be almost impossible to rear, but now it is known that they are not more difficult than other species it the proper place can be found for them. The Masdevallia house has the specimens fresh and vigorous, as they always have been at Bur- ford, but there are only a few in bloom yet. The rare M. trinema with beautiful silver-white flowers marked with purple ; the very rare M. Burfordi- ensis with large, fleshy, claret-coloured flowers ; the scarlet M. racemosa, and a few others were remarked in bloom, and the rare M. triglochin and M. deorsa, the latter having a singular pendant mode of growth. Of the same class Stelis micrantha, some pretty species of Pleuro- thallis, Octomeria, ic, are in bloom and bud. In the remarkable collection of Bulbophyllums and Cirrhopetalums are many sending up flower- spikes, and the singular feather-lipped Bulbo- phyllum tremulum, the fragrant B. suavissimum, and some others, are already in bloom. This famous collection contains a larger number of species than any other and these being native of , very widely separated regions, it is a matter for congratulation that the collection maintains its reputation for good cultivation, and that some classes, as for example the La^iias and Cattleyas, have improved even on their former good quality. COLONIAL NOTES. NEW SOUTH WALES. Christmas in Neiv South JVales. — A correspon- dent, writing from Waverley (near Sydney, N.S.W.), sends us an interesting account of the weather recently experienced there. We read that " on Christmas Eve the temperature did not go below 00° until after 10 p.m. On the following Thursday 05°, en the Friday 91°, and on Saturday (New Year's Eve) 114° were regis- tered. I think it was the record for December for forty years— moitt, muggy, tiring heat, Eo that it was impossible to keep cool ; all the crockery, furniture, and even one's clothes were hot to touch ; but in the country towns, of course, the reading was much higher, and on New Year's Eve in some of the Sydney arcades the temperature rose to 120°. New Year's Day turned out much cooler than the day preceding, and the heat-wave is gradually subsiding. To- day (Thursday, January 5) it is 86°, but rather thundery. BushPire$. — The poor country people are having a dreadful time, bush fires raging everywhere ; stock, cattle, sheep, crops, and homesteads are being burnt out in scores, and it is sad to think what will happen if the rain does not soon come to put the tires out. In some districts there are as many as 20 to 30 square miles ablaze, and whole families, unable to get shelter from the fires, have sought refuge in every available creek and water-hole. These are infested with all kinds of animals and reptiles trying to escape the fury of the fire. A bush fire of good size once seen is never forgotten. The present outbreak is attri- buted to broken glass lying about, and the heat of the sun is quite sufficient to cause a light. 1 remember once, some years ago, in Goganjo (Queensland), seeing from a safe distance a fire raging on some hills. The flames seem to gallop along like some mad living thing, and shoot up the tall Gum-trees with Irightful rapidity, and rush along the ground very often faster than a horse can gallop. In this present outbreak it is feared that there is much loss of life, and on all sides the tales of suffering from the country are heartrending. Five buildings and the Epis- copal church at Bundanoon were reduced to ashes in a day ; and one hoars of similar catastrophes in every direction. One afternoon quite a panic broke out, and when the tram came in it was fairly rushed, the women carrying wet blankets and towels round their heads. The heat is some- thing terrific, and smoke and cinders are flying everywhere; even the mail train had to return yesterday, and wait for a couple of hours before starting. A relief fund has been started in all the States for the aid of the sufferers." BOOK NOTICE. PKOLIFEROUS CYCLAMEN. Mk. Denny, of Down House Gardens, Blandford, sends us a Cyclamen which differs in some respects from any that we have seen (see fig. 51). Florists would call it a semi-double variety ; but it is Vegetables and their Culture. By T. W. Sanders. A NOTHEE book on vegetables has been published, and the author claims a place among the many,, stating that others all fall short of necessary information. We do not go so far as this, but we do say that Mr. Sanders has in 163 pages- touched upon most subjects that are worth the- attention of vegetable growers. In the formatioa of the vegetable-garden the initial expense may deter those with villa gardens from adopting the- advice given in the book, though it is excellent in its way. The plans are very helpful ; but how often it happens that after the builder retires the- garden that is to be is a mass of brickbats. One- cannot adopt the advice given when only a quarter of an acre, or even less, is the space at command. Again, is it well to cut up the ground into so many paths or borders, and thus lose space ? Manures are dealt with largely ; but we would advise beginners to depend more upon animall Fig. 51.— cyclamen flower from the back. Showing the positiou of the adventitious flowers in the axils of the sepals between them and the normal petals which arc shown in dot'ed outline. The plan shows the relative position of florets. something more than this, inasmuch as from the axils of the five normal sepals, between them and the five or six normal petals, emerge five or six separate florets, each consisting of from two to five separate petals without any calyx, but with one or two stamens. Within these adventitious florets was the usual corolla, tubular at the base, and with the stamens as usual opposite the petals. The case is therefore included under the head of axillary floral prolification. It is interest- ing to add that while the normal flower remained on our table for a week or more in a fresh condi- tion, the five adventitious flowers withered quickly, and eventually formed a frill or ring of brown withered petals outside the still unfaded corolla. THE ROSARY. GRAND DUCHESS (GROSSHERZOGIN) ALEXANDRA, H.T. Flowers pale, primrose-yellow. Oarten Well, February II, 1905, p. 234; coloured plate. manures till they know how to use the chemical fertilisers so much advised. In a new garden the soil should be thoroughly tested before these are much employed. The author, as one would expect, owing to his previous experience as a gar- dener, wisely touches upon the value of salt; but it must also be remembered that few things are more injurious than salt employed at the wrong season ; and this applies with equal force to numbers of other substances. The cropping of the garden, ^which is an im- portant item, is briefly touched upon. We would add that resting or purifying the soil is equally important, by clearing away the crops early and trenching or turning up the soil roughly. The system of planting recommended entails a great deal of trouble, for each plant is covered over with an inverted flower-pot ! It would bo far better to draw drills and plant the seedlings in a smaller state. This point is overlooked by many. It saves much labour, there is no need to prick out the plants as advised, and a little tilling uj> here and there is all that is needed. By having 118 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. LFBBB0ABT 25, 1905 •drills also the moisture afforded the plants more readily reaches the roots. The author touches upon, seed-saving, hut. with respect to the Brassica family in a small garden this work is best left alone, as the plants degenerate so quickly. The exhibition of vegetables is touched upon, but it is far better to get the best produce for home supplies than to centre one's attention upon a few things at the start. In the book is given the number of points allowed for each vegetable staged. Too much importance is given mere size, as some vegetables are almost worthless when grown too large. Cultural notes follow, and these are mostly to the point. As regards Asparagus we do not agree with Mr. Sanders when he advises mulching new beds with short grass mown from the lawn. In planting we prefer a wide flat drill to ridges, spreading the roots out. It is advised that roots after forcing should be grown on for future use. This is loss of time; indeed in many gardens the roots. in beds are, left till they are so poor that they do not pay for the laud occupied ; better make new beds oftener. There is no great gain in the southern part of the country in sowing Brussel-Sprouts in heat. By so doing large open sprouts result, and they are more attacked by caterpillars. Celery, for instance, is much better sown thinly, and for late supplies planted direct into the trenches. How often one sees large plants, upon which much time has been spent, collapse after planting, or they grow hollow and almost useless. In regard tj root-crops excellent advice is given upon " size " and cropping ; but as regards Artichokes, it is stated that they may remain for years in the same position ; we would, however, add, that much smoother roots, round, and of better quality, are obtained by good culture, treating them much the same as other roots. Parsnips are often sown much too early. The date here given, January or February, for home supplies would be better two months later, as a Parsnip large enough for any purpose can be grown in six months ; for exhibition purposes, roots a yard long and very large are fashionable, but these lack the quality of smaller roots deve- Joped more quickly ; and such roots do not keep GO well. Potatos are a leading feature. We regret to see some of the best kinds are omitted. Newer ones that have been much praised, although in only & few cases their merits have been tested, are now numerous. In giving a list of vege- tables many good things are omitted ; for instance, there are only foiu- Cauliflowers enu- merated, and this in a list of popular vegetables. Again, with early Turnips, the Long White, so much forced and grown for the Paris markets, is not named. The list, we admit, is a difficult part of the work, but it might well have been more general. "Beehives and Bee-keepers' Appliances." Edited by Paul N. Hasluck. (Cassell & Co., Ltd., London, Paris, New York, and Melbourne) . Mr. Hasluck, the editor of WotTc, has collected information scattered over more than 20,000 columns of the above-named periodical, and now offers them in well-aorranged and convenient form. Modern bee - keeping depends so much upon hives and appliances, upon the assistance of man rather than on the unaided work of the bees, that a handbook such as that before us is of great use. It contains mention of the newest improvements, and an abundance of illustrations dealing, as indicated by the title, with these rather than with the life and work of bees or with how to move and manage them. The Week's Work. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By W. H. Youxo, Orchid Grower to Sir Feederick WiGAN, Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheeu, S.W. Shading will be requisite for many of the more tender-leaved subjects, and if the permanent shad- ing is not yet fixed for the season, sheets of tissue- paper should be spread over such plants as need protection from bright sunlight. Plants near the glass and exposed to the sun will naturally become dry on their surfaces ; this should be guarded against, but excessive watering must also be carefully avoided, for seldom are two days alike. The permanent shading appliances should be prepared and fixed ready for use by the end of this month, and then only used when it is absolutely imperative to use them. Although many subjects are now showing signs of renewed activity, do not urge them forward by excessive heat and moisture, but rather maintain such con- ditions that the growth may be steady and solid. Miltoma sjiectabilis and other species of Mil- tonia having creeping rhizomes should now be in a fit condition to be repotted or resurfaced, but they should be allowed to become moderately dry at the roots before disturbing them. Use pans filled with drainage material to within 2 inches of the rim, and fix the plants in posi- tion to form the specimen by using good fibrous peat and clean sphagnum-moss in equal parts, making this of slightly mounded shape. Pieces of rhizome having but few roots should be secured in position by means of short bent lengths of copper-wire, placing the growing points centre- wards whenever possible. In top-dressing pick out as much of the old material as possible without disturbing the plants, and substitute fresh peat and sphagnum-moss. When the work has been done afford the plants a good watering, and place them on the stage in a shady part of a Cattleya or warm intermediate-house. Spray them overhead regularly, and afford water freely to the roots throughout the growing season. Miltonias of the Clowesii and Kegnelli group being stronger-growing and deeper-rooting sub- jects, may be grown in pots containing drainage material to half their depth. Add a small pro- portion of Oak-leaves to the peat and sphagnum- moss, and surface with sphagnum-moss alone. These species need a less degree of heat, will bear more light, and having a greater depth of rooting medium, should not be watered so copiously as the others. M. vexillaria, being now in a state of active development, must not be permitted to suffer from lack of moisttire at the base, though where any leaf -mould is used and Fern-rhizomes are sub- stituted for drainage, care must also be taken to avoid over-saturation. Spray the plants over- head once a week with some safe insecticide to keep them free from thrips. M. Eoezlii should be afforded a warm, shaded position in the East Indian - house, and if the spot favours rapid evaporation, frequent overhead waterings will be necessary. Potting or top-dressing should be done when new growths appear. Use pans in preference to pots, so that width rather than depth be secured. Place an inch deep or so of Fern-rhizome at the bottom, fill in to near the rim with a compost consisting of one-third each of peat, sphagnum-moss, and Oak-leaves, and a sprinkUng of fine sand, surfacing the whole with chopped sphagnum - moss. Afford water but sparingly for a considerable time afterwards, but keep the surroundings moist by daily spraying the plants and by damping between the recep- tacles. The hybrid between the above two species, M. Bleuana, thrives in a shaded part of the Cattleya-house, and flowers at various seasons of the year. After the plants have flowered, afford them a short rest by keeping them mode- rately dry. In other respects treat the plants in a similar manner as for M. vexillaria. Catilcya Gaakclliana is now breaking into growth, and the necessary re-surfacing or potting should be done ere this get too forward. It likes a cooler position than most Cattleyas, hence the materials do not dry up very readily, and so if any leaves be employed infrequent waterings must follow, unless it be when the plants are rooting freely. Like C. labiata, this species should be shaded from all direct sunshine, or the leaves will acquire an unhealthy appearance ; but if the shading be too dense it will detract froin the quality of the flowers, or even prevent their production. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By A. Bullock, Gardener to E. J. Wythes, Esq., Copped Hall, EppiDg, Essex. Stove Plants. — Proceed with the repotting of any plants that require more root-room. Unless the potting shed is conveniently situated a tem- porary bench placed on the stage in the house containing the plants to be potted should be used. The necessary material for the work should be ready to hand, including clean pots of various sizes, well drained with broken crooks or char- coal. Avoid over-potting. Those plants that do not require a shift into larger pots should have their surface-soil removed and be afforded a top- dressing. Most stove plants succeed in a com- post consisting of good turfy loam, leaf-soil, silver-sand, and broken charcoal, but exception should be made for such plants as Ixoras, Marautas, Dipladenias, &c. These require a liberal addition of peat soil to the compost mentioned. A little " plant-manure " added to the compost is very beneficial, but great care should be taken not to employ too much. A 6-inch potful of manure to a" barrow-load of the compost is a good and safe proportion. Freshly potted plants will require careful watering for some time afterwards, but in the first instance they should be thoroughly watered with a rose watier-pot to settle the soil. Creepers overhead planted in inside borders should be afforded a top dressing of good soil, but first the old soil should be removed and the roots examined. If they are in a healthy condition, a little dusting with bone- meal before the fresh soil is added will be of benefit to them, but should the roots be in a poor condition manure of any sort must be avoided and a little fresh soil only added untU such time as the plants recover their vitality and are capable of making roots freely. Ferns. — In order to obtain a supply of greenery for decorative purposes there is no better method of production than that of having plants growing on the wall of a house having a north aspect. Very little trouble is required in fixing a trellis or wire netting to hold the soil together, and if Ferns be planted now they will make considerable progress during their first season of growth. Tlie appearance of a wall so treated always gives pleasuie, and the growth of the plants is much finer than that of plants in pots. Ferns that require a warm, moist atmosphere should be re- potted or top-dressed as may be needed. Equal parts of good turfy peat and loam, a little dried sheep droppings passed through a half-inch mesh sieve, together with broken charcoal and silver- sand in moderate proportions, will form a suitable compost. Bouvardias, Fuchsias, Abutilons, Aloysias, ^c, should now be pruned, placed in a warm-house, and syringed freely on warm, sunny days. A batch of Cannas may be introduced into heat for flowering early ; if j^lunged in a bed of leaves they will soon start into growth, when potting-on or dividing, as may seem best, can be carried out. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By W. FVFE, Gardener to Lady Wantage, Lockinge Park, Wantage. Asparagui. — Few vegetables require less labour, are more appreciated, or can be more easUy grown than Asparagus. In order to produce long bleached stalks, a considerable depth of soil is ap advantage, but stalks about 6 inches in length and of proportionate thickness, one-half of which is fleshy and eatable, may be considered an ideal dish. Such can be produced in soil of very indifferent quality if it te worked well and manured to a depth of from 18 inches to 2 feet. The seeds should be sown thinly in drills 2 inches deep, and from 18 to 2-i inches apart, in March, when the soil is in good working condition. Thin out the young plants when large enough to handle, leaving them 15 or 18 inches apart in the rows. Permanent planta- tions, whether in beds or on the level ground, FEBRnARY 2."i, 1905.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 119 that were drepsed in the autumn with farmyard manure, should now be lightly and carefully forked over, reducing the manure and soil to a fine condition, and reraovinp,- any substance which would be likely to prevent the shoots from coming freely through the soil. Afford a dressing of nitrate of soda, applying about 2 lb. of soda over 50 sqxiare yards, or apply soot in much larger quantities. If the beds are very rich from annual applications of manure, apply a good dressing of air-slacked lime to them. JMaintain the supply of forced Asparagus by forcing the plants in warm frames in which the Asparagus will be near to the glass. Peas sown, as advised early in the year, in 4-inch pots have just been potted into 8-inch pots, placing them sufficiently low to allow of the stems being well moulded-up before leaving the soil 1 inch below the rim. Neat bnshy twigs were afforded to support the plants, and they are now in a position near to the glass in an atmospheric temperature of 45^ to 50", having a circulation of tresh air. Where suitable accommodation can be provided, boxes will be found to answer admirably for growing early Peas under glass. Onions. — Seeds sown as advised early in the year under glass in a temperature of 55° to 60" have just been removed to portable frames on mild hot-beds, the pots being plunged in fine soil near to the glass. Close attention should be given to thinning that no deformed plants (which are visible early) be overlooked, for these would cause disappointment later on bj the splitting of the bulbs. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By \y. 11. Clarke. Gardener to Sir William Plowden, Aston Rowant House, Oxon. Peaches and Nectarines. — It is well to defer the final priming and tying of these as long as circumstances will permit; but although the branches have been released from the wires to defer the blooming period, the develop- ment of the buds has been so hastened by the warm weather that the work will have to be com- menced forthwith. Failure in the cultivation of Peach and Nectarine trees out-of-doors is fre- quently due to the trees being overcrowded by old and useless wood. Growers are sometimes advised not to prune too much, and the process of disbudding being but little understood, the trees are soon allowed to reach the top of the walls, and the lower parts become quite bare. At this season, nevertheless, very little remains to be done, if all superfluous and old fruit-bearing shoots were removed last year after the fruits were gathered. Remove the ties and shreds, and if the trees were attacked with red- spider or have brown-scale upon them, thoroughly scrub the old wood with a solution of Gishurst Compound, working it well into the crevices of the bark. The brush should be drawn in an upward direction" when dressing the shoots, and unless the work be done very carefully, the buds may afterwards drop. White walls should be limewashed, and brick or stone walls be syringed with a solution of paraffin and soft-soap. If 2 oz. of soft-soap be mixed with the same quantity of flowers- of-sulphur and put into 1 gallon of water, it will make an excellent wash for trees and walls also. I use this when the trees have set their fruits, the sun-heat at that time and during the summer radiates from the wall, and carries with it fumes from the sul- phur. When all has been made perfectly sweet, lay-in the main branches of the trees, securing them with soft tartwine to the wires or nails, radiating them from the main stem at equal angles on each side the tree, afterwards filling up the intervening spaces with well-ripened fruic- Tbearing shoots of medium strength, allowing a space of 4 to G inches between each shoot. Well-ripened shoots, where space permits, should be tied -in their full length, but weak and immature shoots may be cut back to a triple or growth-bud in the firm wood. Aim to have an evenly-balanced tree ; let the shoots be clean, straight, and as equidistant as possible; shorten the lower branches more than the top ones, so as to secure more vigour in. this the weakest .part of the tree. New wires should be given two coats of linseed oil. In making the ties, allow the branches ample space to swell. Trees growing on light or gravelly soils should be examined, and if the roots are in the least degree dry, afford them a soaking with manure-water from the farmyard. Stocks intended/or grafting should be cut down to IS inches of the ground, and old standard trees should be headed back. See that sufficient grafts (scions) are laid in for this purpose, covering them 8 to 12 inches in the ground. Affix labels to all newly-planted trees, and to any others requiring new ones. not the convenience for very early forcing, to in- troduce the first batch of plants, as they will soon commence to grow freely. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Dr. Corbet, Impney Hall Gardens, Droitwich. Tomatos. — The earliest plants are now making rapid progress, and require much care in the application of water to the roots until the first trusses of fruit have set, after which more liberal treatment may be afforded them. Pollinate the flowers, and pinch out the side-growths from the main shoot as they appear. Keep the a mosphere moderately dry where plants are fruiting, and a temperature of 55* to GO" at night, with free ven- tilation during favourable weather. Repot young plants for succession, always keeping plenty of plants in readiness for putting into permanent positions when they are required. Melo7is.—li seeds have been sown as advised in a previous Calendar, and are growing in 12-in^' Committees Me€t. "•-"■ ^ 1 NatiODal Rose Society's Com- (- mittee Mcetiug. THURSDAY, MAK. SATURDAY, MAli. MONDAY, TUESDAY, MAn. U MARCU. -Liunean Society's Meeting. ( Societ6 Francaise d'Horticul- ■( turc de Londres Meeting. Horticultural Benefit ovident Society. Annual Meeting at Caledonian Hotel, London. S p.m. mingham Mutual Improve- ment Society's Meeting. ( Royal Horticultural Society's ) Committees Meet, 'j National Rose Society's Coni- (. mittee Meeting. (•United I and Pre J I MeetiU] I ^' Birn V m( THURSDAY, Mau. Hi -Linnean Society's Meeting. WEDNESDAY, Mau FRIDAY, Mar. MONDAY. Mar .,, ( Royal Botanical Society's Show ~^\ at Regent's Park. I'l— Royal Botanical Society's Meet. ,,- ( Birmingham Mutual Improvc- "' t uient tociety s Meeting. TUESDAY. Mar. WEDNESDAY.Mak. THURSDAY, Mar. „^ ( Royal Horticultural Society's ■( Committees Meet. qt, * Liverpool Horticultural So- \ ciety's Spring Show (2 days). /"Royal Horticultural Society's .j^) Exhibition of Colonial Fruits •") and Vegetables (2 days). (.Torquay Flower Show. BALES FOR THE WEEK. MONDAY NEXT-- Roses, Azaleas, Herbaceous and other Plants, Lilie.=. &c., at 67 and 68, Chcapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12. WEDNESDAY, NEXT— Palms, Plants. Azaleas, Roses. Fruit Trees, Peren- nials, ic, at 6T and 6S. Cheapside. E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12— Roses, Lilies. Azaleas, ifcc, at Stevens' Rooms. FRIDAY NEXT- Border Plants, Ros^s, Perennials, &c., at 12, by Protheroe & Morris, at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.C. —Orchids in variety, at 67 and 68. Cheapside, E.C,, by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.3i) o'clock. (Vor farther particulars see our Adverlisemenl columns.) AvEBAGE Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick - 40-5'. ACTUAL TEMPEBATT7EES ;— LOSDON.— TlVrfncsda!/, February 22 (6 P.M.) : Mai. IS' ; Mln. a.-.'. eardeners' Chronicle OfBce, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden, London. — Thurmai/, Ffb. 2;t (10 A.M.): Bar., SO'l; Temp., 'fa". Weather- dull and overcast. FaO'ViscES.— Wednesday, Feb. 22 (6 p.m.): Max. "vS°, Plymouth ; Min. 37', N. of Ireland. There is, or rather we should Cuitupa g there was, a great need Science. - ^i • ^ c • i in this country of a journal wherein experts might speak to experts of their experiments and their si>eculations, discuss methods and results, until they are ripe enough to be laid before the general public. The Journal of Agricultural Science, of which the first part is now before us, is intended to supply that need. Papers of the description contemplated by the editors are as good as lost when pulilished in the Transactions of learned societies, where they are necessarily overlain with the profusion of other matters ; and they are not of a nature to be inserted at length in current periodicals of a less technical character, which must deal with established resultsratherthan with lengthy discussions. The fiist paper in the copy liefore us deals with the much debated question of Mendelism. Evidence is gradually accumulating in support of this theory, but the subject is so complex and may be looked at from so many points of view, that records of detailed experiments arc at the present stage specially valuable. Mr. BiFFEN, of the Agricultural Department o! the University of Cambridge, leads off with the results of some experiments started with the object of ol.itaining some improve- ment in the quality of English - grown Wheat. Whilst in this country we grow an average of some 30 bushels to the acre, more than double the quantity grown on the same area in most other countries, yet the quality or "strength" of our Wheat as required by the miller and the baker is markedly inferior to that grown in Canada, Russia, and the United States. To remedy this state of things various experiments have been made in hyliridising or cross-breeding, and these experiments till recently have been '• a game of chance played between men and plants." Mendel's experiments go to show how definite results may be expected in future rather than haphazard chances. We need not here repeat the results of Mendel'^: experiments with Peas, as brought to light by Mr. Batesox; but, in order to show the practical value of such trials, Jlr. Biffen says : " If Wheats 'behaved in the same manner as Mendel's Peas, then the fixing of the chosen forms after the breaking of the type was going to be a simple matter, requiring merely the test of a single season, and not years of selection and inbreeding. If this were really the case, we had prospects of, so to speak, picking out the valu- able characters from different varieties and building up an ideal type. There -were possi- bilities ahead the breeder had hardly dared to hope for. Fresh experiments on the same lines as those of Mexdel were accordingly planned, with the object of obtaining definite knowledge as to the behaviour of all the possible characters of Wheat on hybridising." We cannot here repeat the details as to the contrasting characters presented by the crossed Wheat plants, as shown in the very numerous trial ]dots supervised by Mr. BiFKEN. It must suffice to say that the results are in entire conformity with the results expected from a consideration of Mendel's Laws, according to which in the second generation of the cross-breds the "characters" presented are some "domi- nant," others " recessive, " and that the pro- portion of one to the other is always three dominant to one recessive, or a very close approximation to that ratio— a ratio ex- pressed by the formula .'? I) : 1 K. There are exceptional cases, into the details of which we cannot enter. We conclude our reference with this important citation : — " Any desired combination of the characters represented in any two varieties can be obtained ' fixed ' in the first or at the most the second generation from the hybrids." Mr. Albert Howard follows with an article on the influence of pollination on the development of the Hop. It is found that Hop flowers which escape pollination from male plants, of which a few are found in most Hop gardens, are retarded in their development, and never make up the deficiency. They turned out at picking- time to be small, green, and unripe, and compared very unfavourably with the well- grown golden-yellow and ripe pollinated Hops. This is in accord with what was, we believe, stated in these columns sixty or more years ago, and which was also noticed in Eoyle's Materia Medico, published about the same time. Mr. Hall has an important paper on the indications afforded by the plant itself of the nature and proportions of the ingredients in the soil. To obtain results of value we require to know the average amount of certain constituents in a given plant, as well as in certain parts of that plant, on a given soil over a series of years, comprising extreme variations of seasonal climate, so that the problem is not so simple as it looks. One point, though of course previ- ously known, comes out strongly; that is, in Mr. Hall's words, "the fluctuations in the composition of the ash are reduced to a minimum in the case of organs of plants which, like the grain of cereals or the tubers of Potatos, are manufactured by the plant from material previously assimilated." There are various other important contri- butions by Dr. Bernard Dyer, Mr. S. H. Collins, Prof. Middletox, and others; but we have only space to allude to one other short note of Mr. Hall's on a subject about which some of our correspondents have lately been enquiring; we allude to the use of calcium cyanamide and of calcium carbide as soil-fertilisers. Calcium cyanamide, says Mr. Hall, represents the first attempt on a commercial scale to avail ourselves of the nitrogen in the air as an, artificially ob- tained manure. Calcium cyanamide is obtained by passing a current of nitrogen gas over calcium carbide at a high tempera- ture. The result is a compound containing 20 per cent, of nitrogen. The trials made at Rothamsted with this substance in com- parison with sulphate of ammonia, show that the cyanamide is an effective nitro- genous manure, but whether it is com- mercially more valuable remains to be seen. Whether the calcium carbide (a mixture of calcium and carbon) is of any value as a source of lime is not stated. We have said enough to show that the Journal of Agricultural Science deals with subjects of as great importance to the gar- dener as to the farmer, and in the full assurance that progressive culture, whether in the garden or in the field, will depend on the aiiplication of scientific data to cultural practice, we heartily welcome the new publication. Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the Committees of this Society will be held on Tuesday next, February 28, when a lecture will be delivered by the Hon. J. H. Turner, the Agent-General for British Columbia, on Fruit-growing in that province, which will be illustrated by lantern-slides. Linnean Society. — An evening meeting will be held on Thursday, March 2, at 8 p.m., when the following papers will be read:— 1, Zoological Nomenclature : International Rules and others (to be followed by a discussion), by Rev. T. R. R. Stebbing, M.A., F.R.S., Sec.L S. 2, Biscayan Plankton, Part IV., The Thaliacea). By Dr. G. Herbert Fowlek. M.A., F.L.S., &c. Arboretum.— The UMmher oi the iHtieilungen der Deutschen JJendrologischen Gesellschaft for 1904, published at Bonn under the superintend- ence of M. L. Beissner, is full of interest to those lovers of trees to whom the German language offers no difficulties. Its contents are very varied, and refer particularly to the newer and most interesting introductions from Arizona, British Colombia, and elsewhere. There are also mono- graphs of Ligustrum, Philadelphus, and Deutzia, the value of which would be greatly enhanced if the differential characters at least were given in Latin as well as in German. A full index is supplied, tor which readers will be very grateful. 'Pebruabt 2j, 1905.] TUB GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 121 Flowers in Season. — A box containing 'riowers of a number of named varieties of the florist's Primula has been submitted to las by Messrs. William Bull & Sons, King's Eoad, Chelsea, S.W. There are good shades of colour among the varieties included, some oi the flowers .almost approaching a blue colour, notably one of A deep lavender shade which has received the name " Blue." There are also some of a semi- .double type. Judging from the examples before us the strain is a desirable one. The Surveyors' Institution.— The next ordinary general meeting will be held in the Jeoture hall of the Institution on Monday, ^February 27, when a paper will be read by Mr. Harold Geiffin (Fellow), entitled " Some Pro- jiosals for Improving the Law and Practice of JRating Property." The Tomato Trade. — Some interesting iigures have reached us from the other side of the Atlantic which may be thus compressed : The Tomatos packed in Canada last year amounted to 297,750 cases, each of which contained two dozen tins, compared with 397,000 cases in the preceding jear. Growers in the United States packed some '4S,671,053 cases last year as compared with J0,282,309 in 1903. SCAPHYGLOTTIS COGNIAUXIANA.— M. Coa- -NIAUX informs us that the native country of Scaphyglottis Cogniauxiana, described in our .columns by M. De Wildeman at p. 33 of our j)resent volume, is not Brazil, as there stated, but Mexico. It was collected near Orizaba by -Dr. PuBPUs, who sent living plants to M. Db Xaet, of Contich, and to M. Schekck, of Darm- stadt. Popular Names. — A well-known amateur horticulturist writes : — " How glad I am you have called attention to the absurd re-naming of ■Oorreas and Laohenalias ! The proposed names care highly objectionable, and specially so to simple and ignorant people who are ' fond of flowers.' They help to confuse the very slight ■botanical knowledge they might possibly other- •wise imbibe." "COUNTRY Life in America" is a magazine .evidently suggested by our ovra. periodical of a similar name. Paper, type, and illustrations are -luxurious, and the subject - matter somewhat .startling, as in the case of the article on "Tarpon- Ashing." The American Carnation Society.— Our American exchanges are full of the doings of •this Society, which held its annual meeting at "Chicago on January 25. The reports enable us to obtain some notion of the enormous scale on which the Carnation is grown in the States. We -note that the newly-elected President is Mr. Petek Fishee, the raiser of Mrs. Lawson Carna- tion. By the way we notice that Mr. Fishek is a -native of Scotland, who migrated to Boston some •quarter of a century ago. It is remarkable how many of the foremost gardeners in the States are of British origin. We do not wonder at their migra- tion, but we are surprised that we hear so little •of them after they have left the old country till -some special circumstance brings them into note. Seedless Apples,— Attention is directed by .the Country Qentleman to the fact that the seed- .less Apple, like the stoneless Plum, has been known to pomologists for more than two centuries. Jliny and Theophrastus, at the beginning of the tChristian era, are stated to have referred to seed- less and bloomless Apples. Robert Manninu. of -Boston, in 1S69 wrote that he had seen this Apple .under the name " No-core " at an exhibition of the jyiassachusetts Horticultural Society several years before. He said that he had also received a similar -Apple from a French nurseryman. The greatest previous outbreak of the seedless Apple craze in this country occurred about 1890, or less than fifteen years ago. As to the merits of the variety Prof, Bailey said," It appears to possess no value aside from its curiosity." H. E. Van Deman, then U.S. Pomologist, said of it : " My opinion is that the variety is practically worthless as a fruit, but it is quite interesting as a curiosity. Anyone who plants trees of this variety will be disappointed, except in having his curiosity satisfied." " American Fruifs." [Apart from mal- formations of this kind, which are common enough, botanical readers wUl know that among Eosaceae unisexual flowers are by no means rare. Ed.] Welbeck.— Mr. James Gibson, late of Danes- field Gardens, Marlow, was appointed, on the 14th inst.. to be head gardener to the Duke of Port- land, Welbeck Abbey, Notts. " The Garden Magazine." — Messrs. DouBLEDAT, Page & Cc, of 133, East Sixteenth Street, New York, the publishers of Conntry Life in Artierica, have issued the first number of a new monthly gardening periodical under the above- mentioned title. It is destined to be, in the words of the promoters, a beautiful periodical, devoted to that most fascinating and refreshing of all subjects, the garden. Among the contri- butors we notice the names of Professor Bailet and Professor Waugb, and others, who afford a guarantee that the magazine will be all that it is intended to be. In an article on the best ever- green trees to be grown in the Northern United States the writer advocates the employment of native rather than of exotic species, a precept that might in this country at least easily be pushed too far. But the peculiarity of this article is that over the text is imprinted a figure of a life-sized spray of some Pinus — perhaps P. Strobus. Liege. — The Bulletin of the Federation des Socieles Horiicoles de Belgique for January 31 contains details concerning the congress to be held at Liege from May 8 to 10 inclusive in connection with the great flower-show to be held at the same time. The attendance of foreign guests is invited. The President is Baron M. van der Brdguen, Minister of Agriculture, and the Chairman of Committee, M. Closon. Communi- cations should be addressed to M. Ch. Gontiee. 101, Eue de Statte, Huy, Belgium. New Plants — Among newly - introduced plants mentioned in the Catalogue of Hcrr Hein- RicH Henkbl, of Darmstadt, is Aponogeton monostachyum, the flowers of which are repre- sented as on a simple spike, and described as creamy - yellow in colour. Many interesting aquatic plants newly introduced or not generally known are included in the list. Rooks. — As the result of an elaborate enquiry in Germany as to the utility or mischievousness of rooks, it is quoted in an article in the Journal of the Hoard of Agricul- ture, that crows and rooks are, on the whole, more useful than harmful, especially in the breeding season. He is however of opinion that it is requisite in some cases to diminish their numbers. " The Gardening Year-Book and Garden Oracle." — This is a handy little book, prepared by the editor of the Gardeuers' Magazine, for use in the garden office. It contains, in addition to an almanac and diary, articles on the events of the past year, new introductions, whether of flowers, fruit, or vegetables, a calendar of opera- tions, notes on quarter days and taxes, so that the grave and gay are well mixed. The mean iemperature of each day is given, but no locality is mentioned where the record was made, nor any indication as to the number of years from which the mean is taken. The anarchical con- dition of Bussia might be illustrated by the statement that in the thermometer used in that country "the graduation begins at boiling-point, which is marked zero, and the freezing point is 150." This thermometer must surely be the one in use in the topsy-turvy house ! We agree with the editor that this book is, as might be expected, literally packed with valuable information of an upto-date character, and that a shilling spent in procuring a copy would be a profitable invest- ment. It may be had from the otiice of the Gardeners' Magazine, 148, Aldersgate Street. Spraying Fruit.TREES. — It is satisfactory to read that the practice, of which we so frequently urged the adoption, is now carried out by many fruit fanners. We had imagined that our recom- mendations had been mostly ignored, but judging from an article in the Journal of the Board of Agriculture, the practice is spreading. To avoid risk of poison, no spraying should be done after the fruit has attained a fourth of its fuU size. The article should be read and acted on by all fruit-growers. Harper Adams College.— The report of the experiments made under the direction of the Staffordshire County Council and of the autho- rities at the above-named college in Shropshire are chiefly interesting to agriculturalists. The following details concern Potato-growers in general. The trials of different varieties of Potatos at Orton and Cresswell are particularly interesting at the present time. The varieties to whicj the attention of farmers is particularly called are Sir John Llewelyn, Eoyal Kidney and The Factor. Each of these Potatos is an excellent cropper, a good resister of disease, and of full flavour when cooked. At Hilderstone the artificial manures appear to have had little effect upon the Potato-crop when used in conjunction with farmyard manure. The largest yield was produced by plot 3, which received 20 tons of farmyard manure per acre, the total weight being 17 tons 4 cwt. 2 qr. 21 lb., an increase over the unmanured plot of 7 tons 8 cwt. 1 qr. 1 lb. There were very few small Potatos, the crop was free from disease and of excellent quality. The good effects of a change of seed from the Morth are very plainly demonstrated from the results at this centre. The very high prices paid for the newer varieties of Potatos have resulted in the excessive propagation of many of them. This is thought by many authorities to be harmful to the variety, and that its vigour wiU be materially impaired. In order to obtain some reliable information on this point an experiment has been started on the following lines:— Three plots of ground were planted with— (1) whole sets; (2) cut sets, single eyes ; (3) plants from cuttings. The variety selected was Northern Star. The whole sets and cut sets (plots 1 and 2) were planted May 6, and the cuttings were grown on in a cold frame, and planted out early in June. The rows were 3 feet apart, and the plants 13 inches apart in the rows. The ground was in very good order, and no manure was considered necessary. The plants grew rapidly, and from the appearance of the haulm it was impossible to see any difference in the plots. Disease was entirely absent. It will be seen from the table that the cuttings produced the heaviest weight of ware and smallest amount of seed size. Carnation Flamingo —Mr. Jno. Eobson, nurseryman, of Altrincliam, informs us that he exhibited a basket containing " Flamingo " Car- nation at the last meeting of the Eoyal Horti- cultural Society, and that the variety was awarded a Gold Medal in New York two years ago. We have repeatedly stated that it is impossible for us to undertake to notice every exhibit at these or any show. The matter has to be determined not only by the importance of the subject, but also by the time and space at our disposal. 122 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Febbuabt 2ri, 1905. Over-sea Supplies for January. — Under this heading we gire the monthly account abridged from the Trade and Navigation returns of the oversea trade of this country — only that concerted with agriculture and horticulture • being recorded here. It is hoped the reader may thus be able at a glance to see how this great division of industry stands in relation to the others — the figures on the one side being com- pared with the residue for the other. "Our" side -wiJl be divided into four classes, the first two affecting the " inner man," the third his immediate environment — from clothes to house- hold goods ; the fourth as connected with manu- factiires generally, as also seeds for sowing and for working up itto other material. Figures connected with the animal kingdom have been carefully excluded. The Board of Trade Returns for the first month of the year give the total value of the imports as i47,766,4C0, which, com- pared with the figures for the same month last year, iE43,lS2,520, shows an increase of ^1,633,940. It matters not here whether the increased value is due to a rise in prices •or to an increase in bulk. Our classification table will readily show the relationship of the products of the soil to the mass of imports :^ Imports. CtASS : Desceiption OF Produce. 1904. 1905; Difference. Glass I. — Cereals, and other field crops — Wheat, Barley, Oats, &c. 16,283,71.5 15,857,568 £ -429,157 Class H.— All 01 her food cullui-es — Tea, Coffee, Fruit. &1,771 4,429.088 -1-577,3:7 Class III.— Used in manufactures — cloMiing, house- hold goods, &c.... 9.404,030 8,425.533 -978,497 Ola.'is IV. — Miscel- laneous — includ- ■ in? seeds, flowers, &c .3.011,774 2,.85S,662 -153,223 ■t^aluesof Produce... 33,654.290 31,670,733 — 9S3,f57 It will be interesting to florists to note the figures with which they are concerned. The January imports of flowers amounted to ^£21,046 as compared with ^623,395 in January, 1904 — or a decrease of ^62,349. The timber-merchant may note that there is a falling off amounting to some ^6301,101 (£737,851, compared with £1,039,015 in the first month of last year). It is of interest to note here that byarrangement between Archangel sawmill proprietors and the officials of the Crown Lands Department in that province, timber will in future be so supplied to the mills that a heavy reduction can be made in the prices paid by shippers. Turning now to the section of fruit and vegetables, we extract the following figures : — , IMPOHTS— JANTTARY. 1904. 190a. Difference. tVuits, raw- £ £ £ Apples 190,121 199,673 -f9.552 Apricots and Peaches 1,169 H2 —1,027 Bananas 55,799 73,923 -fl8,124 Grapes 171 2,39i -f 2,218 DLemons ... 38,785 30,690 -8,195 Nuts— Almonds 21,129 44,600 -f 20,471 Othei's used as fruit 28,7S3 27,973 -750 Oranges 300,730 334,904 -f 34,174 Pears 685 1,341 -1-656 ■ Plums 478 60 -18 Unenumerated ... 6,88'7 10,478 -f9,591 Vegetables, raw- Onions bush. 67,287 85,249 417,962 Potatos cwt. 130,422 24,694 —155,728 Tomatos „ 32,081 32,001 —SO Unenumerated „ 37,256 .29.363 -7,893 Totals ... 965,728 903,383 . -J«2i345 It is sitisfactory to note here that since the issxie of our last monthly table the Union Castle Company's ships have brought the following fruits from the Cape : — Apricots, 2G8 boxes : Peaches, 363 do. ; Plums, 1,364 do. ; Nectarines, 45; and Pears, 16— a ;,^total of 2,056 boxes. Coming now to — Exports, we note in them an increase of £906,412 — £24,989,777 for last month, compared with £24,083,365 for January in last year. These exports are entirely of British and Irish mate- rials; but there is a separate "foreign and colonial " list, amounting to, for last month, £6,113,887 sent here to our " shop " for customers to purchase, and this section contains both agri- cultural and horticultural produce brought from oversea. We have but little of our own raising to spare for other folk. Grafting Azaleas. — There is an interesting article in the last number of the Jardin descriptive of the methods of cultivating the Indian Azalea at Dresden. In the nursery of M. Seidel the Azaleas are propagated either by cuttings or by grafting. Cunningham's White Rhododendron is commonly used as the stock. The Rhododen- dron itself is propagated by cuttings taken from plants grown in the shade. The young plants are potted in July, placed in a cool-house, and grafted in the following winter. PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED.-Zutiro.«e Paints (C. T. Druery, Moorgate Station Clmmbers. London) gives information as to the uses of this "iniperishahle paint. '" — Califoruia Olive Oil. University of C.Tlifornia Agricul- tural Espcrinient Station. Contribution to the Study of FeniientatioD. Uuiversity of California, College of Agriculture.— Botanical Dcpartineot, Trinidad, BnUclin of Miscellaneous Iirjormatioit, Januaiy. Contents : Cacao Disease (Diplodia Cacaoicola), Essential Oils. Theobroma angustifolia, tkc— Bulletin oj Vic Jamaica Department of Agriculture, January. Contents : Cotton Conference in Jamaica, Notes ou Grape-vine Culture. Nitrogen in Agriculture. &c —University of Califoruia publications. College of Agriculture. Agricultur.al Experiment Station: 7*f //op ,l;)/(is, by Warren T. Clarke. Bulletin No. lW.~L'<:EnopliHe, January; Eevue Mensnelle de Viticulture. OJnologic et d'lEnotechnie : Paris. Bor- deaux, and Caudc^'i-an —Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits and Federated Malay Slates, October, 1904. Edited by H. N. Ridley. Contents: Manuring Rubber. Fibre Plants, Ramie Trade of the World, &c.~Atmual Report oj the Bureau of Industries for ttie Province of Oidariu. ■1903. Part I.. Agiicultural Statistics: Part li., Cliattel Mortgages.— vlnviimJ Seport, lAsI of Mrmliers, .Schedule of Prizis d-c. of tlie Xational Dahlia Suciety, for 1904.— United States Department of Agriculture, Fanners' Bulletin No. 208, \'arietifs of Fruits recommended for Plahting, compiled by W. H. Raglan.— Bureau of Plant Indu&tiy, Bulletin No. 69, American Varieties of lettuce. by W. W. Tracy. -New ILampshire College Agricultural Experiment Station, Durham, Bulletin 111, .^pril. 1904 Ten Experiments with Potatos (fiut Potato Culture for Xeu' England, by F. Wm. Baue and H. F. HaJl.— Bulletin 113, May, 1904, Fiperiinents in Destroying Btacf:-Flies, by Clarence M. Webb,— New Jersey Agricultural Experi- ment Stations, The Use of Fertilisers, a review of the results of experiments with nitrate of soda, by Edward B. Voorhees.— /i fultiralorc, 12th Febbraio, editfd by Professor A. Marescalclii, Casale Monfeirato.— /7*///et^wo delta /?. Societa Toseann do Orticulturu, .T.Tnuary, 1905. UNDERMOUNT, BONCHUECH. ISLE OF WIGHT. [See Supplementakt Illustration.] The type of Primula sinensis shown in the Supplementary Illustration to the present issue has risen much in popular estimation during the past few years. Primula " stellata " is said to have originated in this country from seeds of the ordinary strain of P. sinensis, and in Messrs. Cannell's nursery at Swanley a variety was k-nown under the name of "Lady." WhetherProf.de Vries would consider this as a new species produced by mutation is open to question. The original plants produced very numerous flowers, small in size, and having each petal marked with a wedge- shaped notch. They grew very tall, and the in- florescences were of lax habit, the leaves were long and narrow, and the petioles were dark in colour. Crosses were soon effected between " stellata " and the florist's type until the va- rieties obtained represented almost every degree of variation letween the two types. Such a- variety as that shown in the illustration is one combining some of the characteristics of both ; it partakes of the habit of P. stellata, but the flowers are larger in size and possess greater substance. Chinese Primulas are cultivated with mucb care and success in the gardens at Undermount,- near Ventnor, the residence of Henry Michel,Esq.,. for besides the "stellata" varieties, similar to- the plants illustrated, we were shown on January 30* a number of plants in flower representing aa excellent strain of the florist's type ; also some- splendid plants cf the old double-flowering varie- ties that have to be propagated by means of: offsets. This type is little cultivated now, and there is no wonder, seeing that such good semi- double flowers as were seen at the last meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society can be raised' true from seeds. At the same time such plants as- we saw at Undermount growing in 7-inch pots, which were not a bit too large for them, were^ exceedingly attractive, and the variety grandi- flora particularly had superior flowers to those obtainable from seeds. In the glasshouses and 'paiticularly in the conservatory at Undermount, there are plenty of instances of gcod plant cultivation: but for us, even in January, the chief interest of the plac& was out-of-doors. Imagine, for instance, oui being able to cut fully-opened white flowers of the- fragrant Pittospoium Tobira growing 16 feet high on the exterior of the conservatory ! Yet such was the ca se ; and by its side were flowers of another fragrant plant, Cheimonanthus fragrans^ fully open. In sheltered nooks and borders adja- cent to but outside the warm-house s,Cliviaminiata. had flowers almost ready toexpand ; Adiantumsandi Pteris were growing in the crevices of the walls., Solanum jasminoides was trained against the same w.all, Dimorphotheca Eckloni and Cine- rarias were growing, and also Hedychium Gard- nerianum, which last season produced sixteeii tall growths and an abundance of flowers.. Flowers were appearing on plants of Acacia- arm ata in the open borders ; big bushes of Coronilla glauca v^ere in flower, also Escallonia. macrantha, and plants cf Megatea crassifolia. Ona bank, thefacccf whichwas coveted with Ivy., there were groups of Gazanias, Wallflowers, and Mesembryanthemums, and open flowers on all these species. Other tender shrubs or plants we noticed- included Abutilon vitifolium. Acacia floribunda,. A. lophantha, and other species, Agathsea ccelestie,_ and Phlomisfruticosa (Jerusalem Sage). Further plants in flower were Vinca major, Kniphofias (Tritomas), which are said to flower during the whole year; double-flowered white Stocks, Peta- sitesfragrans (winter- flowering Heliotrope), Roses, especially the variety Madame Berard ; Erica- Cavendishii; E. mediterraneawas 4 feet high, and formed quite a bush, and the collection of Ericas- generally is much prized. Lobelia Cavanillesii or- L. laxiflora angustifolia is generally considered to- be a greenhouse perennial, but in this garden it was growing nearly 3 feet high among the herba^ ceous plants, and bearing several of its yellow or- reddish-yellow flowers. L. laxiflora has also been, known as Siphocampylus bicolor. But perhaps one of the most striking features- in this garden was a group of Spring (!) Cab- bages, perfectly ready to be cut. The plants were on a little b.ank facing the sea, and had quite- solid, white-looking " hearts." Enquiry elicited the information that they were raised from seeds sown on July 28, and that they were planted- out on September 2, 1904. The varieties were Flower of Spring, Ellam's Early, and Sutton's- April. Ellam's Early appeared to have " turned in " as early as any of thtm. The gardens at Undertttount are in the care of Mr. George Cheal. Feeruabt 2t>, 1905.] THE GARDENERS^ CHRONICLE. .123 VEGETABLES. "ROTATION OK KITCHEN GAEDEN CROPS. (Cdiitimied Jroin p. yp.) <_)NioNS. — As already mentioned, the best vege- "table to succeed Celety is the Onion. The deep 'disturbance of the soil, and the liberal manuring .of the ground for the previous crop, provide con- -ditions for the successful growth of Onions, with ■the assistance only of a light dressing of some approved artificial manure, such as nitrate of soda, which I have found excellent. The Onions .should be sown during the first week in March. It sometimes happens that the Celery has not all 'been removed by that time ; should this be the ■case, a good plan is to talie up what plants •remain, and plant them closely together in a :3hadyand cool cornerof the garden, where they can •be preserved in a fresh condition for a much longer time than if left exposed to the drying ■winds of March in the open ground. This enables ■the grower to clear the ground in good time for sowing the Onions. Before these are sown the rground should be levelled, and afterwards trodden as hard as a heavy man can tread it. 'The drills should be drawn at distances 1 foot apart. If the crop is required for home con- sumj^tion no thinning of the young plants is ■necessary, unless the seeds have been sown exceptionally thickly. The majority of the •Onions thus produced without thinning will be