ah 14 iY Veo THE WA a | Sern es i rer CONDUCTED By J.C. LOUDON, F.L.S. HLS. &c. AUTHOR OF THE ENCYCLOPEDIAS OF GARDENING AND OF AGRICULTURE, AND EDITOR OF THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF PLANTS. LONDON: PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, REES, ORME, BROWN, GREEN, AND LONGMAN, PATERNOSTER-ROW. 1832. * Lonpon : Printed by A. & R. Spottiswoode, ~ - New-Street-Square, PREFACE. Tue contents of this Eighth Volume of the Gardener’s Magazine show that the work.continues to answer the purposes for which it was commenced, viz. those of collecting scattered fragments of information on the various departments of gardening on which it treats ; giving an account of the progress which the art is making in various parts of the world, and more especially in Britain ; and bringing minds into collision, which, probably, would not other- wise have known of each other’s existence. The grand characteristics of the present times are union and cooperation for general improvement. Those engaged in arts and occupations which admit of their congregating together in towns feel no difficulty in assembling, and communicating their different discoveries and wants: hence the advantages which are daily resulting from scientific societies and mechanics’ institutions. The gardener and the farmer, however, have but slender oppor- tunities of improving themselves, or benefiting others, by attend- ance at such associations; and must necessarily be, in a great measure, precluded from the advantages which result from belong- ing to them. The principal medium of communication of all such persons is, therefore, the press ; and the probability is, that, with the progress of human-improvement, every description of rural art or trade (if not all arts and trades whatever) will have its own particular Newspaper or Magazine. ‘The idea has been already suggested in the Scotsman newspaper, and in the New Monthly Magazine. It is in consequence of the want of personal inter- course, or the means of communication through the press, that the country population are, in intelligence and enterprise, com- paratively behind those whose pursuits admit of their residing in towns; and, of all classes of country residents, agricultural labourers are generally the most deficient in moral and intellec- tual improvement. The cause is, that no other class is so com- pletely isolated from the rest of society. ‘Till lately, this has been, to a considerable degree, also the case with gardeners: and A 2 iv PREFACE. hence the necessity and advantage of their having magazines. especially devoted to their professional pursuits and social inte- rests. A Magazine for the common country labourer remains a desideratum ; but, though no class of society would be more benefited by such a medium of communication, the time does not seem yet arrived for producing it. Gardeners, from the nature of their profession, and from coming more in contact with cultivated minds and with books, have always been in advance of the working farmer and common country labourer; but their progress, since the general establish- ment of horticultural societies, and of a Magazine expressly devoted to the advancement of their art and their personal inte- rest, has been greatly accelerated; and this improvement, we have no doubt, will continue to increase far beyond what the most sanguine of us can at present anticipate. We have left ourselves too little room to point out all those parts of the present Volume which, in a more especial manner, deserve attention; but we cannot help noticing the circumstance of its containing a number of well written articles by young journeymen gardeners, in different parts of the country; who, having begun life with very little education, and without ever having had higher wages than 10s. or 12s. a week, owe their improvement entirely to their own exertions, to which they have been chiefly stimulated by the perusal of this Magazine. It also gives us pleasure to observe, by the contents of this Volume, that an increased attention has been paid to gardening, as an art of design and taste, by various of our contributors. The best cultivator of fruits and vegetables that ever existed is, in our eyes, unfit for the care of a gentleman’s garden, if he be without a taste for order and neatness, and for that species of beauty in garden scenery which we have elsewhere (p. 701.) shown might be appropiately denominated the gardenesque. Ask O64 Be Bayswater, Nov. 21. 1832. CORRECTIONS. Errors are corrected in the first occurrence of| In p. 174. for ‘‘ Longleat” read ‘ Shortgrove, the head “ Retrospective Criticism,”’ after they Essex.”’ have been observed : in the present volume see] In p. 255, line 33. for “1831” read “ 1832,” pp. 244. 367. 607. Besides these, the following] In p. 483, line 3. from the bottom, for “ Vol. errors require correcting : — VIII.” read ‘‘ Vol. VII.” e ‘ CONTENTS. 5 ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. GENERAL SUBJECT. General Results of a Gardening Tour, during July, August, and part of September, in the Year 1831, from Dumfries, by Kirkcudbright, Ayr, and Greenock, to Paisley. By the Con- ductor - = = 1, 129. 257. 385, 513 Hints on raising the Leguminous Plants of Australia and the Cape of Good Hope from _ Seeds, on acclimatising them in Europe, and on their native Habits. By Mr. J. Bowie 5 Remarks on the depressed State of the Nursery and Gardening Professions, more especially in Scotland. By J. G. < = - 134 On the Necessity for increased Exertion on the part of young Gardeners to store their Minds _ With professional and general Knowledge. By Scientiz et Justitiz Amator - - 137 On Gardening Recreations as a Substitute for ~ Fox-hunting, Horse-racing, and other bru- talising Sports. By Mr. Thos. Clark, Jun. 140 On the Sap-vessels, or Circulating System, of 4 Plants. By the Author of “ The Domestic Gardener’s Manual,” C.M.H.S. - - 142 Observations made on the Performance of a Hot-water Apparatus in a Pinery at the Earl of Egremont’s, Petworth, Sussex, during the ) severe Weather in January last, by Mr. Har- rison, the Gardener there. Communicated by " Mr. Cottam = - - - 147 Various Recipes for destroying Insects, restoring the Bark of Trees, preparing Compost for Pines, &c. By Mr. Peter Martin, Foreman in the Nursery of Messrs. Murray and Coss, near Leeds = = = - 148 Horticultural Notes on a Journey from Rome to Naples, March 1—6. 1832. By Wm. Spence, Esq. F.L.S. = = = - 266 Some Account of the Nursery Gardens and the State of Horticulture in the Neighbourhood of Philadelphia, with Remarks on the Sub- ject of the Emigration of British Gardeners. to the United States. By Mr. Wm. Wynne, { Foreman in Bartram’s Botanic Garden, Phil- adelphia = = = = 2/2 Notices of some of the principal Nurseries and private Gardens in the United States of America, made during a Tour through the Country, in the Summer of 1831 ; with some Hints on Emigration. By Mr. Alexander Gordon oi = = - - 217 On certain Frauds imposed by Correspondents upon the Readers of Transactions of Horti- cultural Societies, and of the Gardener’s Ma- gazine, &c. By An Enemy to Deceit - 289 Plan for heating Hot-houses by the Circulation of hot Water in hermetically sealed Tubes of small Diameter. By Mr. A. M. Perkins - 292 A new Trap for catching Moles, with some Re- . marks illustrative of its Superiority over the Traps now generally in Use. By A. F. - 298 Extracts from Notes made during a Horticul- tural Tour in the Netherlands, and Part of France, in June and July, 1830. By Mr. T. Rivers, Jun. = - - - 392 Investigation of the Structure of the Balsam (Balsamina horténsis Desportes). By the Au- thor of the “ Domestic Gardener’s ae ae Horticultural Jottanda of a recent Continental Tour. By Robert Mallet, Jun. Esq. = Gil Remarks on certain Gardens in the Lake Dis- trict, and on cultivating a Taste for Garden- ing among Cottagers generally. By Joshua Major, Esq., Landscape- Gardener - 527 On Gardens for the labouring Poor. By See On the Means of inspiring a Taste for Garden- ing among the labouring Classes of Scotland. | By James Stuart Menteath, Jun. Esq., of Closeburn, Dumfriesshire eer = N52 On the Construction of Double-roofed Hot= houses at Vienna. By M. Charles Rauch, Court-Gardener at Laxenburg = - 535 A new Mode of training Fruit Trees; a new Mode of grafting and inarching; and an im- proved Mode of making Gooseberry Wine and Cider, &c. By Mr. W. Green, Jun. - 539 Observations on several Gardens in England. By Mr. W. Sanders - - - - 546 Design for a Gardener’s House, containing Five Rooms and an Office ; adapted for being con- nected with the Wall of a Kitchen-Garden 551 Notice of some new Cast-iron Flower-Stakes, and some small Wrought-Iron Stakes for Peas or Annuals, invented by Robert Mallet, Jun. Esq. Communicated by Mr. Mallet - 554 Notice of the Cast-iron and Wrought-Iron * Flower.Stakes manufactured by Cottam and Hallen, London. By the Conductor - 556 Notice of a newly invented Hoe. By John Booker, Esq. - - - 558 Remarks relative to’ the Advice given by Mr. Mallet to young Gardeners. By Scientiz et Justitie Amator = - - 641 The Necessity;and Advantages of Gardeners visiting one another’s Gardens. By R. T. 645 Directive Hints for the effective Cultivation of Cottage Gardens. By Selim - = - 647 On the Influence of Cottage Gardens in pro- moting Industry and Independence among Cottagers. By John H. Moggridge, Esq. 650 A Question to the Author of ** The Domestic Gardener’s Manual.’? By Mr. Main - 652 On Mr. Hayward’s Mode of training Peach Trees, as compared with Mr. Seymour’s Mode. By Joseph Hayward, Esq. - - 653 On the Application of the Ammoniacal Liquor of Coal Gas to the Destruction of Insects and Vermin. By Robert Mallet, Esq. - 656 Design for a Gardener’s House, adapted for being connected with the West Wall of a Kitchen-Garden - - - 659 Design for a Gardener’s House, serving, at the same time, as a Watchtower for the Fruit Walls of a Garden in the Neighbourhood of a large City. By T. A. - 660 Designs and Details for opening the Gates of Lodges to Gentlemen’s Seats in the Night- time, without troubling the Gate-keeper to leave his Bed. By Mr. Saul - = 662 A Description of Two Kinds of Beehive. By Mr. W. Young - = = - 664 Notice of a new Transplanting Instrument for Florist’s Flowers, invented by Capt. Hurdis, R.N. Communicated by Mr. Cameron, Nur- seryman at Uckfield, Sussex - - 666 Description of an Instrument for Use in the Summer Pruning of Forest Trees. By Mr. William Taylor, Gardener, Thainston, Aber- deenshire - - - - 668 A Description of a useful Garden Implement termed Parallel Rods, designed for marking Parallel Lines on Beds. By its Inventor, Mr. William Godsall a US ase >= 669 LANDSCAPE-GARDENING AND GAR- DEN ARCHITECTURE. On certain Defects in Pleasure-Grounds, and the Mode of avoiding them. By Mr. Robert Errington - S e 3 - 151 On planting and laying out Grounds. By M. Her- man Knoop Klinton, Landscape-Gardener, Ghent - = = - ___-, 301 Description of a Design made for the Birming- ham Horticultural Society, for laying out a Botanical Horticultural Garden, adapted to a particular Situation. By the Conductor 407 A Plan and Description of the Flued Walls in the Gardens of Erskine House, with a Plan @ vl and Description of the Kitchen-Garden. By Mr. G. Shiells = - - 670 Remarks on the Question, Whether the Archi- tect or Landscape-Gardener should be first employed in the Formation of a Residence. By Mr. James Main, A.L.S. &c. - - 673 ARBORICULTURE. An Account of the Common and Highland Pines, as found in Scotiand. By J.G. - 10 Notices of large Trees in the United States and in Canada. Communicated by James Mease, Esq. M.D., of Philadelphia = =) 152 Description of a Tree-Guard in Use at Thains- ton, in Aberdeenshire. By W. Taylor, Gar- dener, &c,, to D. Forbes Mitchell, Esq. of Thainston - - - - 154 On pruning Forest Trees. (From ‘‘ Essays on Vegetable Physiology” preparing for the Press). By J. Main, A.LS. - - 303 On Transplanting large Trees, Pruning, &c. By Mr. Howden - = = 559 FLORICULTURE. Design for a Flower-Garden, intended for a par- ticular Situation near an old Mansion, with a List of Plants for Summer Display. The Plan by C. D., and the List by Mr. George Wood, Gardener to Thomas Hope, Esq., M.P., of Depedene, Surrey = = 5 - 155 On the Culture of Nelumbiums. By C. - 157 On the Cultivation of Brugmansia arborea [suavéolens] in a Conservatory. By Mr. Jas. Arnold, Gardener.at Grove House, Cheshunt 159 On the Propagation and Culture of Polygala cordifolia, Eutaxia myrtifdlia, and Phoend- coma prolifera. By Mr. J. Nicolles, Gardener to R, Pettiward, Esq., Finborough Hall, Suf- folk = = bs 3 - 160 A Method of cultivating Pelargoniums, as prac- tised at Horsforth Hall Gardens. By Mr.’Vhos. Appleb - eS - - - 161 On the Culture of Pelargoniums. By Robert Elliot, Gardener to William Hartley, Esq., Rose Hill, near Whitehaven = - 162 On the History and Culture of the Carnation. By Edward Rudge, Esq. F.R.S. F.S.A. and F.L.S., President of the Vale of Evesham Horticultural Society. Read at the Meeting of the Society, July 24. 1828 = - 428 Remarks on laying out and managing Flower- Gardens. By Mr. Robert Errington ~- 562 List of Exotics which are now living in the Gardens of Charles Hoare, Esq., at Lus- combe, near Dawlish, in Devonshire. Com- municated by Mr. Richd. Saunders, Gardener and Planter there 3 - - 566 List of certain Green-house and Hot-house Plants which have stood out during one or more Winters, in the open Air, in the Garden of Robert Mallet, Esq., at Drumcondra, near Dublin. Communicated by Mr. Mallet, Jun. 568 On sowing annual Flower Seeds inthe Autumn, CONTENTS. \ Schoolmaster = 2 é On the Cultivation of Rantinculus parnassifo- lius and Q’xalis floribGnda. By Mr. John Menzies, Gardener to Christopher Rawson, Esq., Hope House, near Halidax = ST On the Culture of the Heartsease Violet. By . Mr. Arch. Gorrie, F.H.S. and C.H.S. &e. 573 A Fence for Plantations about Pasture Grounds in sight from a Residence, and Stakes for Standard Roses. By Chas. Lawrence, Esq. 677 A Description of a Method of propagating Cape Heaths expeditiously. By Mr. T. Rutger 681 On the Cultivation of the’ Droseras and Pin- guiculas. By Robert Mallet, Esq. - 684 HORTICULTURE. A Descriptive List of such Apples as have been found to succeed in the Neighbourhood of Kilkenny, in Ireland. By Mr. Jchn Robert- son, F.H.S., Nurseryman there = - 165 On a Method of forcing Cabbage Lettuce, prac- tised for many Years’ at Longleat, by the late Mr. Rutger, Gardener there. Communicated by his son, Mr. T. Rutger = = 172 On a Mode of cultivating the Tomato, so as to make sure of ripening the Fruit without arti- ficial Heat. By E. S. - - - 174 On the Culture of Mushrooms in Melon Beds. By Mr. John Collier, Gardener to Edmund Woods, Esq., Shopwick = - 312 On the Culture of the Pine-apple without Pots. By Mr. James Mitchinson, Gardener at Pen- darves = z = S - 576 On a rapid Mode of raising excellent Vine Plants. By Mr. T. Rutger, Gardener at Short Grove, Essex é - = 3 tl On substituting good Vines, either as to Kind or State of Health, for bad ones, with the least possible Loss of Time. By Mr. Alexander Gordon, late Gardener to Sir F. G. Fowke, Bart., Lowesby Hall, Leicestershire - 578 On the Destruction of the A‘phis on Peach and Nectarine Trees. By Mr. G. Jamieson, late Gardener to Mrs. Bulwer Lytton, of Kneb- worth Park, Herts = = - 580 Account of a Method of gathering Apples from the must lofty and slender Trees, without breaking any Twigs, and without Danger to the Operator. By Mr. E. M. Mather ~- 581 On the Fruits used in the Manufacture of Perry and Cider. By J.C. K. - - 582 On Bishop’s Dwarf Pea, as compared with other On the Culture of the Ranunculus. By avillaee - 9/ early Peas. By Mr. Anthony Adamson, ina Letter to Mr. John Gibson. Communicated by Mr. Gibson . - 584 An Account of the Otaheitean Method of pre- paring the Arrow-root. By Andrew Mathews, Esq., of Lima = = = - 585 Description of the Petre Pear, a fine Seedling Butter Pear, cultivated in the Bartram Bo- tanic Garden, near Philadelphia. By Colonel Robert Carr, Proprietor of that Garden - 587 On procuring Two Crops of the Ash-leaved Kidney Potato, in One Year, off the same in order to have them flower early in the Ground. By John Denson, Sen. - 688 Spring. By R. T. > - - 570 | Abridged Communications - 175. 314. 589. 688 REVIEWS. Transactions of the Horticultural Society of Second Series. Vol. I. Part I. 177. 315. 433 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural So- ciety. Vol. IV. Part II., and Vol. V. Part I. 178. 322. 439 Verhandlungen des Vereins zur Beforderung des Gartenbaues in den Kéniglich Preus- Londo. sischen Staaten. Transactions of the Society for the Advancement of Gardening in the Royal Prussian States - 187. 338. 442 Catalogue of Works on Gardening, Agricul- ture, Botany, Rural Architecture, &c., lately published, with some Account of those con- Sidered the most interesting - 193. 341. 452. 698 Literary Notices - - = 221. 345. 463, 698 MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE. Notices of new Plants, or of interesting old ones, derived from the British monthly Botanical Periodicals for February and March, 1832 224 Floricultural and Botanical Notices of new Plants, and of old Plants of Interest, supple- mentary to the latest Editions of the “ Ency- clopzedia of Plants,’ and of the ‘‘ Hortus Britannicus ” 3 ~ 345, 454. 596. 721 Notices of Plants recently imported, figured, or described ; and such Notices of old Inhabit- LIST OF ENGRAVINGS. x ants of our Gardens as may be likely to inter- est the Cultivator or Amateur 1 General Notices = = 26. 236. 353. 464 Foreign Notices - ~ 62. 356 Domestic Notices - 79. 248, 361. oi 593 Hints for Improvements 1. 366 Retrospective Criticism 83. 244. 367. 482. 607, 728 Queries and Answers - 90. 372. 499. 609. 735 Cottages and Cottage Gardens, Workhouse Gardens, and Gardens of Prisons and Lunatic Asylums - - - 96. 376. Index to Books reviewed and noticed % General Index - Vii A Walk, on the 30th of June, round the Garden of the late Comtesse de Vandes, By J.D. 476 Metropolitan Nurseries - - 101. 249 Provincial Nurseries - - - 104, 251. 741 Provincial Horticultural Societies - 115. 251 626. 745 London Horticultural Society and Garden 125. 252. 378. 505, 614. 742 Covent Garden Market - 127. 254. 383. 504.'624. 744 LIST OF ENGRAVINGS. No. Page IMPLEMENTS. 115. Booker’s newly invented hoe - 558 INSTRUMENTS. 121. Apparatus for exploding blasts in sink- ing wellsin rocks - - 591 62, A detached fumigator to fit any bellows 354 122. A glass siphon with a glass globe to concentrate the sun’s rays = 8, 9. Improved numbering sticks on the notch principle 79, 80, 81. A Lapland lock made of wood - 488 6, 7. *Mr. Neeve’s instrument for laying off or transferring angles = 49, Plug, trigger, or mumbling-peg to Mr. Neeve’s instrument = 142. Parallel rods for apportioning the space of beds 61. Siebe’s universal garden syringe - 354 141. Shears for use in pruning | forest trees “in summer - 58, Thermometer indicating “the heat of the soil and air at once _ 47,48. Two views of a newly invented moletrap = 299 10, 11, 12. Various forms for brick tallies 33 59, 60, Warner’s syringe = - 353 UTENSILS. 17. Annular pan to insulate plants from the access of insects = a 16. French moletrap - : = S 140. Hurdis’s flower transplanter 5 126, 127, 128. Implements for the application of the ammoniacal liquor of coal gas one 6 $9. Still for manufacturing various liqueurs 183 117. A pot for protecting plants grown in it from snails and slugs - 572 77,* 78.* A tub for Teas uring and weigh- ing corn ~ - 467 22. Tulip transplanter, as improved by Mr. Saul 23, Tulip transplanter, the old kind - 44 MACHINES. 13, 14, 15. Budding’s machine for SEATS grass plots, Xc. - 98, 99. Mill for crushing soft fruit - = 542 100, 101. A more, powerful Piles for similar Urpo: - 171. Tele ant apparatus for transplanting trees and large shrubs 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138. Design and de- tails ofan apparatus for opening lodge gates in the night, while remaining in the bed-roont S 5 _ 43. Norman wheelbarrow co APPARATUS FOR HEATING WITH HOT WATER. Mp 3, 4, 5. Neeve’s boiler furnace - 45, 46. Perkins’s distributing pipes 44, Section and ground plan of Mr. Per- kins’s boiler 1. Section of a double-walled boiler sf 544, 545 9 | 116. 663, 664 - 238 28, 29 =~ 295, 297 - 294 Obituary : = - - 255. 384. 751 - 752 = = = - 753 No. Page STRUCTURES. 55. Ground plan, and 56. and 57. Section of a set of pits for melons, pine-apples, or other hot-house plants: erected at Colonel Paterson’s, Cunnoquhie 332, 333 33. Ground-plan of a house, with bath and conservatory attached, and to be heated by one boiler - - 90 42, Ornamental fountain in artificial stone, 237 139, Plan for a rustic beehive - - 665 31. Telford’s iron gate, of flat bar iron - 85 20. Sketch of a light for a hot-bed - 40 84,85, 86, 87. A double-roofed hot-house at Vienna - - 536, 537, 538 54, Section of a glazed howse adapted for the culture of peach trees, grape vines, and ornamental plants = - 329 ARBORICULTURE. 36. A tree-guard in use at Thainston - 154 i EDIFICES. 35. Ballyscullion House, Ireland - - 91 64, 65. Public water-closets - - 389 105, 106, 107. Designs for chimneys ~- 553, 554 66, 67, 68. Designs for chimneys S - 390 104. A gardener’s house, connected with the wall of a kitchen-garden 5 = 552 130. Ground-plan, and plan of chamber ~- 660 131, 132. Gardener’s house, to serve also as a watchtower - - 661, 662 129. Gardener’s house connected with the west wall of a kitchen-garden - 659 FRUIT. é 120. Outline of the Petre pear, a butter pear 588 -PLANS OF GARDENS. 69. Brussels botanic garden, plan of - 401 70. elevations and plaus of the glass- houses in - 402 40. Arrangement of the public garden at Magdeburg - 192. 193 71. to 78. Proposed plan, sections, &c., for the Birmingham botanic garden 410—495 37. Design for a garden near an old man- sion - = - - 156 143. The flued walls at Erskine House, Ren- frewshire - 671 102. Kitchen-garden at Longford Castle - 549 144. Plan of the kitchen-garden at pene House 672 103. Pleasure-grounds at Longford Castle - - 550 Errington’s plan for a flower-garden 564, 565 99, Parmentier’s garden, eS Long’ Island, North America 71 45. A residence wrongly placed in a park . 675 120. The Tivoli garden at Vienna > 5 (yf PLANTS. . Form of the yellow Swedish turnip (Ruta baga) = OT) . Form of an improved ' Vay of it - 58 . Iris tuberdsa L. - 235 . A variety of Quércus “ Robur having . narrow and entire leaves - 739 149, 150. Structure of the Rafflésza Arnéldé 708 - 98| 38. Nelimbium specidsum W, % - 158 Vill LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS. No. Page| No. ‘ Page * DIAGRAMS. 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97. Modes of engraft- ao 50, 51, 52, 53, Diagrams illustrative of the effects on timber of variously-timed pruning co 63. Train of wheels of a hill near Greenock = 3 82, 83. Sap-vessels and circulation of the sap in Chara S 5 32, Sketch of a walk needlessly serpentine 87 OPERATIONS. 125, Diagram exhibiting Hayward’s mode of training on one stem = - 655 123. Diagram illustrative of Hayward’s sys- tem of training the peach tree - 6 124. Diagram illustrating Seymour’s mode ran ged along the slope of training the peach tree = - 654 21. Diagram representing Mr. Saul’s mode | of shifting potted plants - - 88, 89, 90. Modes of training - 339, 540 118. A mode of speedily occupying a house with vines - = - 579 ing by approach = MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. 119. Application of a ladder to gathering fruit, without its resting on the tree - 581 24. A cheap awning for beds of tulips, ranunculuses, &c. = S 4a 4h) Q7. Diagram of a proposed substitute for hop-poles - - - 65 18. Gauntlets for lady gardeners - - 37 19. Howden’s gate-shutting hinge - 38 34, Pedestal of a sundial - - 91 108, 109. Cast-iron stakes and hurdles for oe flowers o = = 110. to 114. Cast-iron and wrought-iron stakes for supporting flowering plants 557 30. Section of an artificially-formed aqua- rium = G e 3 146, 147. Stakes for standard rose trees * f- 679 148, Sketch illustrative of a mode of train- ing standard rose trees - - LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS. A Constant Reader, 688. A Correspondent, 611. | Lawrence, Charles, 677. 696. Lawrence, John Adamson, Anthony, 584. A Disappointed Lancashire Farmer, 609. A. F., 298. A Friend, 86. A Friend to the Cottager, 697. A Friend to Enquiry, 372. A Journeyman Gardener, 729. A Lover of Accuracy, 375. A Lover of Horticulture, Hammersmith, 40. Alpha, 103. A. N., 492. 500, 613. An Ad- vocate for every Thing’s being done above Board, 730. An Enemy to Bribery, 499. An Enemy to Deceit, 289. An Englishman, 474. 596. “A Northumbrian, 90. A Porer, 36/7. Appleby, Thomas, 161.491. A Reader of the Gardener’s Magazine at Caen, 358. Arnold, James, 159. Arthur, Robert, 56. A Single Gentleman, 543. A Single Tree, 87. A Traveller, 503. Author of ‘* The Domestic Gardener’s Manual,’ 142. 403. A Village Schoolmaster, 570. A. X., 367. 611, 612. B., 63. Baron, Charles, 373. _B. B., 52, 53. 55. B., Coventry, 89. 94. 489. 502. Blair, T., 488. Booker, John, 558. Bowie, J., A.L.S., Cape of Good Hope, 5. Boyce, William, 92. 94. B. P., 360. _Brassiea, 56. Bree, Rev. W. T., A.M., 55. 93, 94. 469. 499. 610. 741. C., 157. Callow, Edward, 244. Cameron, J., 666. Carr, Robert, 587. Causidicus, 96. C. D., 155. Cheeks, Alexander, 738. Clark, Thos., jun., 140. C. L. B., 32. Collier, John, 312. Cottam, George, 147. C. P.,38. C.RH., 67. C. T. W., 368. Cymro, 90. Denson, J., sen., 79. 101. 686. Dutton, H., 86. E., 83. 368. 610. 694. Elles, J., 81. 94. 215. 220. Elliot, Robert, 162. Errington, Robert, 151. 562. Ephebicus Horticultor, 57. E. S., 42. 174. E.S., Sittingbourn, 40. E. W.,jun., 469. ¥., 87, G., Perthshire, 211. G. C. Marsham, 50. G. J.T., 407. G.{M. 239. 476. Godsall, W., 669. 733. 735. Gordon, Alexander, 277. 578. Gorrie, Archibald, F.H.S. and C.H.S., &c., 573. G. R., 360. Green, W., jun., 539. Grierson, William, 91. Groom, H., 46. H, 377. H. B., 69). Hamilton, Wm., M.D., 47. 80. 96. 241, 242. 735,736. Hart, James, 695. Haycroft, John, 40. Hayward, Joseph, 486, 653.. Hertz, W., 358. Hislop, J., 371. 731. Hobson, Wm., 94. Howden, John, 38. _ 249, 370. 559. Huish, Robert, 376. ; I. J., 736. J., 593. J.C. 741. York, 92. Jamieson, G., 580. J.C. K., 55. 582.613. J. G., 11. 134. J. H. M., 373. J. M., Chelsea, 52. 256. 498. 705. J. M., Lisieux, 66. 938. J. M., Philadelphia,'85. J.S.,81. J.S. M., 373. J.W. L., 53. 251. 374. 382. _J.W.S., New York, 72. Kiinton, Herman Knoop, 300. Knight, Joseph, 595. J. W., New Robert, 372. M.,501. Maclaggan, John, 92. Main, J., A.L.S., 303. 490. 652. 673. Major, Joshua, 527. Mal- let, Robert, jun., 85. 364. 370. 482. 521. 554. 568. 592. 610. 656. 684. 697. Manetti, Luigi, 70. 498. 500. Marnock, Robert, 608.731. Martin, Peter, 148. 361. 370. Mather, E. M., 581. Mattheus Sylvaticus, 46. Matthews, William, 80. - Mease, James, M.D., 85. 152. Menteath, James ‘Stuart, jun., 532. Menzies, John, 572. Merrick, A., 86. Merrick, J., 738. Mitchell, John, 470. Mitchinson, Jas., 576. Moggridge, John H., 65. 357. 650. Mulholland, Hugh, 473. Murray, J., 53.89. Murphy, E., 369, 370, 371, 372. 503. Neeve, D. D., 29. Nicolles, J., 160. Oliver, J., C.M.H.S., 612. Pearson, Wm., 734. Penny, George, A.L.S., 50. 103. Perkins, A.M., 293. Perrin, William, 89. Pope, John, and Sons, 112. Pressley, Thomas, 361. Prestoe, Wm., 314. Quercus, 243, R., 176. R., Edinburgh, 43. Rafinesque, C. S., Professor of Botany and Natural History, 248. Rauch, Charles, 535. R. B.S.,358. R.C. H., 47. Redstead, Robert, 95. Reid, Robert, 751. Rivers, T., jun., 392. Robertson, John, F.H.S., 165. Rollings, James, 82. Rothwell, M., 693. Rowe, John R., 736, R.S., 475. R.S. B., 176. R.S.T., Exmouth, 374. R.S.T., Holderness, 374. R. T., 570. 611.,645. R.T., F—— Cottage, 488. Rudge, Edw., F.R.S. F.L.S. &c. &c., 428. 693. Rutger, T., 172. 577. 681. R. W., 95.736. Ryan, John, 81. S., 243. Sanders, W., 546. Saul, M., 44, 45. 662. 695. 697. 737. Saunders, Richard, 566. Scientiz et Justitiza Amator, 137.641. Selim, 529. 647. Senex, 469. Seymour, W., 373. Shiells, G., 670. Sigma, 42. Small, Thomas, 85. S. M. G., 256. Smith, John, 489. Spence, Wm., F.L.S., 266. Stoveld, John, 92. S.R.B., 372. S.T., 610. T. A,, 660. Taylor, R. C., 77. Taylor, Samuel, 59.468. ‘Taylor, W., 154. 668. 735. T. B., 87. T. D, 87. T. E, 66. Thorold, W., 590. T. G., Clitheroe, 502. Trotter, John, 501. T.S., 86. Turnbull, Henry, 108. Turner, Henry, 47.81. 88. 94, 362. Varley, Cornelius, F.L.S., 483. W., 360. Watts, Stephen, 499. Whidden, Wm., 730. Willich, Chas. M., 359. Wilson, W., 690. Wood, George, 155. W. W.C., 79. 613. W. Z., 695. 737. Wynne, Wm., 272. X. Y., 95. 614. 741. Y. A. B., 61. Young, W., 664. +t, Haut Pyrenée, Bagnes de Bigorre, 62. THE GARDENER’S MAGAZINE, FEBRUARY, 1832. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. Art. I. General Results of a Gardening Tour, during July, August, and part of September, in the Year 1831, from Dum- Sries, by Kirkcudbright, Ayr, and Greenock, to Paisley. By the CONDUCTOR. (Continued from Vol. VII. p. 649,) GanpDENING, as we have before observed, is not so much to be improved from within itself, or by the experience of its practitioners in their own departments, as by calling in, and bringing to bear upon it, other sciences and arts. ‘There are some of our readers, no doubt, who would be much better pleased to see our pages confined to short practical papers on the culture of the different articles grown in kitchen and flower gardens, than to read discussions on subjects of general improvement contained in such articles as those of which the present is a continuation, or to study the accounts of inventions occasionally brought forward in our General Notices. (p. 12.) We consider persons entertaining this opinion as taking too confined a view of our duties; because we know that almost all the improvements of any consequence which have been made in gardening have been drawn from other arts and sciences. What improvements could have been made in the construction or management of hot- houses, for example, unless the gardener had extended his enquiries to the manufacture of iron or other metals into sashes; and to the science of chemistry as applied to com-~ bustion and the management of heat? We have no doubt that there are various readers who could see little connec- ~ Vou. VIII. — No, 36. B 2 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — tion between the figures of monuments in the churchyard at Dumfries, which we gave in a former Number (Vol. VII. p. 529.), and fountains and sundials for ornamenting flower-gardens and pleasure-grounds ; yet it will be seen from communications in our present Number, and in a former one (Vol. VII. p. 724., and Vol. VIII. p. 91.), that our notice of these mo- numents appears likely’to lead to a decided improvement with regard to economy and durability in architectural ornaments for gardens in England, as well as to a beneficial commerce between London and Dumfries. We have been asked what use there was in figuring Witty’s patent gas furnace (Vol. VIL. p. 482.), and what chance there was of so intricate a contriv- ance as one that would produce gas being ever made generally applicable in hot-houses. We are mistaken, however, if this furnace does not pro- duce as great a revolution in generating heat for hot-houses, as the intro- duction of pipes of water has done in conveying and maintaining it. (See p. 26.) A correspondent, Suffolciensis we believe, some years ago attacked us severely for introducing Heathorn’s limekiln (Vol. II. p. 403.) into a Gardener’s Magazine. If he should happen to see one of Witty’s furnaces, and understand the principles of its action, he will be able to comprehend the important improvement made by Heathorn in the pre- paration of lime, which in agriculture may truly be called the universal manure. Witty’s furnace is an application of the same principle as Hea- thorn’s, in a different form and on a smaller scale. We could refer to a number of similar cases in past volumes to prove the great advantage of bringing all discoveries or inventions that bear any relation to gardening, agriculture, or rural and domestic improvement, before our readers as early as possible. ; There is another reason why we should embrace all subjects connected with gardening and rural improvement, as well as botany, physiology, and the mere practice of cultivating fruits and vegetables; and that is, the necessity which exists at the present time for young gardeners to extend the boundaries of their knowledge im all country affairs. The changes which are taking place in society, and the desire of the employers of gar- deners to economise, is gradually leading to the union in the same person of the offices of gardener, bailiff, and even land steward. We know various instances both in England and Scotland, in which this union has lately taken place; and we rejoice to see it, for the sake of gardeners, and because we have long been aware of the injury which the agriculture and the farmers of this country have sustained from the employment, as land stewards, of attorneys, who, residing in towns, frequently know nothing of rural affairs. The young gardener, therefore, should not only inform himself phony general subjects, for the sake of keeping himself on a par with mechanics, artisans, and indeed almost every other class of young men, who, in consequence of mechanics’ institutions and cheap publica- tions, are making the most rapid progress ; but he should especially form himself upon all matters connected with rural improvement, as the only means of fitting himself for rising in the world. Assuredly the time is fast passing away for a nobleman or rich country gentleman to keep a separate head gardener at high wages for each department of his gardens; or for a man possessing only the art of growing pines or perhaps grapes to perfection, or excelling in any one particular article, to even hope to obtain a first- rate situation. The spirit of the times requires in every man not only a thorough knowledge of his own profession, but much general know- ledge, to enable him to keep pace with the rapid changes which are taking place around him. _ As a farther portion of the general results of our tour, we shall submit, in the present Number, some general remarks on the gentlemen’s seats, and, park and pleasure-ground scenery, of the west of Scotland. Seats in the West of Scotland. 8 The Gentlemen’s Seats in the West of Scotland are now in a more deserted state than they have been in for many years. Very few of the proprietors reside at them, chiefly, as we were informed, from not having the means (owing to the diminution of their rents, and other causes) of keeping up the requisite establishments, and paying the interest of the mortgages or other encumbrances on their estates. In consequence of this, it will not excite wonder that we found very few gardens kept up in a suitable style. Before this evil can be remedied, material changes must take place in the laws relating to real property, and more especially in the laws of entail and of primogeniture, the evils of which were pointed out by Lord Gardenstone to his countrymen more than fifty years ago. It is proper to mention that the changes which have taken place in the money rent of the land, and in the price of territorial productions, have not been the sole cause of the present negleeted state of gentlemen’s seats in the line of country through which we passed, A few have overbuilt themselves; and a few also have curtailed their means by gambling or electioneering expenses. The prevailing cause, however, of the suffer- ings of the Scotch landed proprietors we believe to be the great extent of their mortgages; and as it is clear to us that the means of pay- ing off these, or at least the interest of them, will, in the great majority of cases, rather diminish than increase, the sooner the mortgagors are authorised by the legislature to sell part of their estates, the better it will be both for themselves and the public. It has been shown in a late num- ber of the Edinburgh Review that more than half the landed property in Scotland is very strictly entailed. As compared with the country seats of England, those of Scotland which we saw during our late tour are inferior in point of park and plea- sure ground scenery. Nature has done much more for the landscape scenery of Scotland than she has for that of England, by supplying the most striking or interesting features; but man has not yet been endowed with sufficient taste, or rather, perhaps, wealth, to make the most of them, We have heard it alleged, that the difference between Scotch and English parks, with regard to wood and lawn, is owing to the inferiority of the northern climate; but this is one of the greatest mistakes that can be made on the subject. A sufficient variety of trees and shrubs, for all the purposes of the most varied shrubberies and plantations, grow as well in Scotland as in England; grass grows as well, and ean be mown as smoothly; and gravel, or a substitute for it, looks as well, when properly managed, There may be fifty or a hundred ornamental trees and shrubs, which endure the open air in the central counties of England, which will not live through the winter in Scotland; but this is of no consequence with reference either to landscape-gardening or ornamental planting, The park scenery of Scotland is inferior, as far as art is concerned, to that of England, chiefly from its confined extent, and the formality of all the lines and forms connected with it. This formality may be traced to the love, in Scotch landowners, of agricultural profits; straight lines, and surfaces uninterrupted by trees, being most favourable for aration. The English beau ideal of a park is that of a portion of natural forest scenery, with smooth glades of Jawn in some places, and rough thickets of shrubs and ferns in others ; but the Scotch idea of a park (judging from the parks as we found them) is that of a pasture field of considerable extent, varied by formal clumps of trees and strips of plantation. Unquestionably the latter description of park is most suitable for a comparatively poor country, because it is better adapted for the maintenance of agricultural stock ; but, taking the style of the finest natural scenery as a standard for this kind of beauty, the English park, as a work of art, is by far the most beautiful. The day for extensive _ parks, however, is gone by; and we have no wish to see large portions of B 2 4b Gencral Results of a Gardening Tour. the country occupied by mere forest scenery, however picturesque it may be. What we should wish to see in Scotland are, numerous small parks of smooth rich pasture, beautifully varied by groups of trees ; not put down at random, both as it regards sorts and manner of planting; but the trees and shrubs of many sorts, one kind always prevailing in one place, and the grouping and connection being such as to produce a varied and beautiful whole. Such parks in Scotland will often be placed on the sides or along the base of a range of hilly er mountainous scenery; and when this is the case, every extent that can be desired, both of pasture and of forest scenery, may be obtained without infringing on any principle of utility. It is remarkable that, in a country abounding with so many fine situ- ations for country residences, there should so often be houses placed in dull flat situations, with nothing to recommend them but the richness of the soil. This we can only account for on the principle that fine situations, being so common, are not duly valued; and that the wealth which can procure a large well-built house anywhere obtains among a poor people more applause than the taste which would place that house in a beautiful situation. The Pleasure-Ground Scenery in the west of Scotland, more especially near the mansions, is in general very unsatisfactory ; partly, we freely admit, from that absence of high keeping which we have found prevalent, and without which, in our opinion, no place is worth looking at; but chiefly from what we think defects in the arrangement. According to our notions of comfort and luxury, the most highly polished scenery, and the finest dis- play of flowers, should always be near the house, and even close to it, on that side which is the least seen from, or connected with, the entrance front. This principle, we think, should be adopted, whether the house be a cot- tage, a villa, a mansion, or a palace. But, in many places, we have found very little difference in the objects and style of arrangement between the scenery connected with the entrance front and that of the other fronts; the flowers and shrubs, which we would have displayed on the drawing-room front, being placed at a distance from the house, in a flower-garden or shrubbery. We have no objection to individuals indulging in this taste, or in any other that gratifies them; but we cannot approve of it as calculated to form what, by such persons as have seen all the fine places in England and Europe, would be called a fine place. The general practice in the most beautiful residences in England is, to maintain a character in the scenery of the entrance front, distinct from that of what is called the lawn, drawing-room, or garden front ; and we think there is reason in favour of the practice. The drawing-room of every house may be considered as the place where is to be made the greatest display of whatever can render a dwelling desirable; the drawing-room, therefore, should not only be comfortable, and elegant within, but the scenery seen from the windows should harmonise with the general character of luxury and refined enjoy- ment. ‘Fo effect this, recourse must be had to ornamental gardening in the foreground, and landscape-gardening in the distance. Ornamental gardening supplies groups of flowers and flowering shrubs, with basket- work, vases, statues, and other ornamental objects; and landscape-garden- ing guides the taste in the concealment or display of distant groups or masses of trees, water, lawn, rocks, hills, and other materials, natural or artificial, of verdant scenery. The entrance front, on the other hand, is generally arranged in a plainer style, and this also has reason in its favour: first, because it is a place liable to be frequently occupied by horses and carriages, and therefore less suitable for flowers, or the recreation of those for whom flowers are more especially cultivated ; secondly, because it seldom happens that the drawing-room windows, and Leguminous Plants of Australia. 5 others of the principal company apartments, look towards the entrance front ; and thirdly, because the plainer the entrance front is, the better it will contrast with the drawing-room front. In many places in Scotland, we found no flowers on either front; and in several, as many on the entrance front as on that of the lawn: but what we disliked the most was that which we frequently met with, viz. a degree of coarseness of surface, rough grass, and a total absence of flowers and fine shrubs all round the house; while there was a flower- garden, and a portion of highly kept lawn at some distance from it, in a shrubbery, or near the kitchen-garden. This we consider both as a want of taste, and a great waste of expense, because no adequate effect is pro- duced. No polish and refinement, no exertions of ornamental gardening in distant parts of the grounds, will ever compensate, in our opinion, for the want of these qualities near what ought to be the centre of all art and refinement, the house. It is not that we disapprove of detached flower-gardens or other ornamental scenes in different parts of the grounds; on the contrary, in large and extensive places where every thing else is in due proportion, we approve of these, as inducements to walk out and ex- amine them, and as adding to the magnificence of the whole; but we can never approve of one of these gardens or scenes in a place where the lawn in front of the house is neglected. Next to utility and convenience, what painters call effect, or what some would call display, with us is every thing. (To be continued.) Art. II. Hints on raising the Leguminous Plants of Australia and the Cape of Good Hope from Seeds, on acclimatising them in Europe, and on their native Habits. By Mr. J. Bowir. Sir, Havine procured, while in England, seeds of various species of the Australian Acacie, and sown them immediately on my arrival at the Cape, I was much disappointed at the apparent failure of many of them, but have found several of them vegetating after being three years: in the ground, during which period, they were duly attended in weeding and watering. Seeds, also, of Acacia longifolia, saved at the Cape, and sown ten days after gathering, showed the same tardiness in vegetating. This circumstance led me to consider the best mode of treatment in trying experiments with the Cape species of Acacia, and ether South African Legummose, ard I find that nearly the whole of this order thrive better by having water heated to 200°, or even to the boiling point of Fahrenheit’s thermometer, poured over them, leaving them to steep and the water to cool for twenty-four hours. Where there is a numerous collection, and the quantity small, of each species, they may remain in the papers. The soil in which to sow leguminous seeds im general, I would recom- mend, should be one part sandy loam, and three parts thoroughly decayed leaves. The common, or wide-mouthed, 48-sized pots are the best for sowing the seeds in, as they allow sufficient room tor draining, and con- tain enough earth for the short time that may expire before planting out, and the soil in them maintains a more equal degree of moisture than in pots of alarger or smaller size: an essential circumstance to the growth of seeds of every description. The Cape species of Legumindse may be sown at any time of the year B 3 6 Raising, acclimatising, and native Habits they may arrive in Europe: if this should happen to be in the autumn or winter, the growth of the plants should not be forced, as such practice tends only to produce weak plants, which rarely survive till the spring. The front stage or upper shelves in the green-house will be found the best situation for placing autumn or winter sowings: but, taking the months of February, March, and April, as the best and most convenient season for sowing those seeds, the following practice will insure to the European cultivator many species which have hitherto failed, continued scarce, or which have only exhibited poor and stunted specimens, and which, consequently, have been treated with neglect, when, under proper management, they would form suitable and splendid ornaments for the shrubbery, and make more room in the conservatory for less hardy species. Having sown the seeds (after steeping as above), and covered them with earth from a quarter to a half inch deep, and leaving a space for water of half an inch from the edge of the pot, they must be well watered, and placed in a declining or exhausted hot-bed, not plunging them. If the season is so far advanced that the sun’s rays are powerful, the frames should be shaded from its direct influence during the middle of the day.” In the earlier stages water need only be applied every third day; or, at least, so often that, without stagnating, the soil is kept constantly moist : alternate drought and superabundant moisture retard and check the pro- gress of vegetation. As the various species make their appearance, and the cotyledons become fully developed, the pots containing them should be separated from the rest, and placed in other frames, where they will require a more constant supply of water and admission of air, duly encouraging their growth until of a sufficient size for planting out. In this, the experience of the cultivator must guide him; but it is necessary to observe, that the first planting out should be accomplished while the plants are in a pro- gressive state of growth, shading them if necessary. 3 In large establishments, the person intrusted with the management of the seeds is, or at least ought to be, a confidential person, and therefore ought to be put in possession of the lists, and any other written observa- tions which may accompany packets of seeds from abroad. By these, he is enabled to allot to each species the peculiar earth required, of which he must be sometimes ignorant, when he meets with species new to him. Whatever soil may be required for the plants, care must be taken not to pulverise it too finely by sifting; for the tap root in its descent, on meet- ing with any obstruction in its perpendicular direction, receives an impulse approaching to animal instinct, and, rounding the impediment, forms sooner its lateral fibres and roots, which are to become organs of nourishment for the future tree, &c. This will not be generally the case with plants placed in earth sifted as fine as snuff; their state of health is shown by the sickly hue of the leaves, which prematurely fall off; and, upon exammation, the root will be found embedded, as it were, in a condensed cement, which all the efforts of nature cannot penetrate, As soon as the young plants are established in the pots, they must be removed from the frames, and plunged in prepared beds of decayed bark, formed at or under the level of the natural ground; and occasionally supplied with water until the middle or latter end of August, when they are to be raised and the tap root cut off, if it should have passed the aperture at the bottom of the pot. They may remain above ground until housed for the winter, during which season as much air and as little fire heat as possible should be administered. In a general collection, it is im- possible to allow every species its proper atmospherical temperature, but Jong confined air and damp are as injurious to vegetable as they are to animal life. There are generally some bright days occurring during the of the Leguminous Plants of Australia. 7 winter season in Britain: those opportunities should be embraced to purify the houses by throwing open the doors and sashes, and keeping up a brisk fire in the morning, as often as may be judged necessary. There are few Cape plants but what will resist the effects of some degrees of frost; the Plectranthus fruticésus, a native of the Cape forests, is the most susceptible of injury from cold, and, if preperly placed-in the house, proves a warning thermometer against direct injury, as it is the first to suffer, and consequently show the increasing harm. Of the South African Leguminose, the following genera form striking and beautiful ornaments in their native wilds, particularly to those who are charmed with the outward appearance and varied colours of flowers: and although the nature of the native soil where they are found to abound may be variable, a sandy loam with decayed leaves is the most genial to the growth ef most species of Cape Leguminosz, and may therefore be used in general collections. Omphalobium, Schetia, Sophora sylvatica, Cyclopia, Sarcophyllum, Borbonia, Crotalaria, Cytisus, Anthgllis, Sutherlandia, Indigéfera, and Aspalathus generally indicate the existence of a red sandy loam. Acacia, Virgilia, Loddigésia, Vibkérgia, -Rafnia, Psoralea, Ononis, and Cylista thrive with greater luxuriance on the margins of streams, in alluvial and vegetable soils: but many species of the same and of other genera vary from the general rules, and are found either in pure sand or in stiff clay, expesed through great part of the year to excessive heat and drought, or but slightly sheltered and nurtured by the mountains; but deriving much of their subsistence from the dewy clouds which those heights, as these clouds pass over them, arrest and condense. So readily do South African plants appear to accommodate themselves to soils and situations, that it is difficult to positively recommend any particular com- post for them in garden culture: practical experience must alone decide the best for the purpose. The insatiate desire of novelty is so inherent in man, that the labours of individuals in all parts of the earth are insufficient to satisfy this craving. How many are there who, for want of room, crowd or neglect many fine plants, for the sake of less beautiful and less useful species! Scientific establishments are not free from this. error; and the evil increases, and is so obvious to many real admirers of Nature, that they cannot help regretting the practice ; though themselves verge on, and not unfrequently fall into, the same mania which they decry in others, and neglect to take the necessary steps for the preservation and better culture of old introductions. This unpardonable negligence is particularly exemplified in the Cape genera, with the exception of Erica and Pelargonium, the cultivated plants of which excel those in their native wilds. The modern improvements in the construction of stoves, green-houses, and conservatories, and the means of applying the necessary warmth to them, relieve the gardener of much manual labour, and prevent a great deal of that anxiety of mind which formerly deprived him of bodily rest during a severe and lengthened winter. We still, however, find a few sluggards slumbering at their posts, whose duty to themselves and to their employers can hardly be aroused to activity, by observing occasion- ally the flourishing collections of their neighbours. You will please to remember that it is a gardener who writes this, and does not intend to cast any reflections on the profession ; but he trusts that you will still continue to advise the young and aspiring in their duty, and prepare them for the part they may have to perform on the great theatre of the world. You must pardon this digression, but it obtrudes itself to my thoughts, and I commit it to paper, and fancy to myself that it is net altogether irrelevant to what may follow. Something more than the mere mechanical operations, B 4 8 Raising, acclimatising, and native Habits and the knowledge of botanical nomenclature, is expected from the gardener of the present day. Independent of his immediate duty to his employer, he has a duty to perform to his country, and one which he may perform with. ease and pleasure to himself, that is, the acclimatisation of exotic plants ; which may frequently be attempted with old specimens, that would, at all events, be committed to the flames: and if he be successful, your pages are open to record his fame, and societies are numerous in England, and liberal enough to reward his merit. : The forming of portable houses for the reception of Legumindsee would - amply repay the amateur for the trouble and expense, by the splendour which plants having a sufficiency of room would exhibit. I would there- fore recommend the planting in beds of prepared soil (formed in such structures as fancy might determine or circumstances permit), masses of this natural order, arranging them so that every plant might receive an equal portion of the sun’s rays through the day ; placing the taller in the centre, and gradually diminishing the lines to the edge, where the minor kinds would form the border, and would not exceed the height of many species _ of the mosses. The grouping of colours must be left to a refined taste, so that the various shades, as far as practicable, may be blended on scientific principles. If young plants, say of three years old, are intended for the above descrip- tion of houses, they should be brought as early as possible to a fit state, by giving them larger pots than they would have allowed to them, were they. intended for the stage or shelf of a green-house. As young plants will be small in proportion to the space they are hereafter to fill, several of a species may be plunged over the rim of the pots, and marked for future removal : this will, without deranging the plan, allow sufficient room for those which remain; those to be removed, having a ball of earth attached to them, will be fit specimens to try in the open air. For this experiment I would rather recommend a northern exposure for planting than a southern one, where, after severe frosts, a sudden thaw does most mischief, and in many instances is the real cause of death to the plants. If large plants, thus exposed, appear killed by cold, too much haste must not be exercised in removing the roots, but cut down the stem, and let the stool remain for one or two years. When old plants are intended for the portable house, or for a conservatory, they should be headed down to a convenient height, allowing sufficient room for their heads to form free of the roof; and as the various species of Schotia flower occasionally on the old wood, and the others at the extremities of the young spring and summer shoots, this habit should be strictly attended to, and borne in mind at all seasons. Many persons regret the loss of old established plants, and, in the vain attempt to preserve them ina confined space, permit injuries to be inflicted upon them by injudicious pruning, which eventually forms unsightly and dis- agreeable objects for a house. They are then condemned, and in the autumn are left out, and exposed to every vicissitude of season, and no opportunity ‘Is given them to live. It is early in the spring months that these plants should be selected, and planted out in sheltered situations of the shrub- bery : they would at least have a chance of existence, and, if they should: die, their loss would not be so apparent. It has become a very common practice in Europe, to plant exotic shrubs in front of the stoves and green-. houses indiscriminately, and without thought of their yltimate height, or whether they can be kept within bounds by pruning without injury or total prevention of flowering: this point requires consideration, or the plants are likely to become nuisances. Omphalobium, Virgilia, Sophora, several Psoralez. and Cytisi, form a distinct stem; Schotia, Indigdfera, Psoralea, Aspalathus, Podalyria, Li- paria, and Borbonia, as well as Cyelopia, Sarcophyllum, and Rafnia, form of the Leguminous Plants of Australia. 9 branching shrubs from the collar: in the three last-mentioned genera this habit should be encouraged as much as possible; by cutting them down to the ground ; it encourages the larger growth of the collar, and in old plants the appearance of nakedness would be but temporary; the quick growth of numerous shoots, especially in old plants, would form dense bushes, and stronger and more characteristic masses of flowers. Omphalobium and Schotea are of slow growth: planting them under the shade of others will draw them up to the requisite height without injury. By confinmg this communication to Legumindse, I do not wish to exclude the plants of other natural orders; but the first is given to illus- trate what will, if put in practice, add to the pleasure of the cultivator, by ornamenting, without confusion, and prevent the destruction or neglect of many interesting plants, from ignorance of their worth, and from not be- holding them in full vigour of health and beauty. ' I am convinced, from observation, that many Australian leguminous plants require the same treatment as those of South Africa, especially among the rigid-leaved species, as Daviésie, &c. ; consequently a mixture of plants of both countries would no doubt thrive. I subjoin a list of the average height which several species attain in their native habitations : it may partly guide the cultivator in planting : — Ft. im. Virgilia intrisa and capénsis - - - - 25 0 If Virgilia is deeply injured in the old wood, a gum exudes, which is used as gum arabic. Omphalobium - - - - - 12 0 Sophira sylvatica - - - - = Lon 0 Psoralea pinnata - - - - - 15 0 Cyclopia - - - - - 4ft.to10 0 Indigofera cytisoides - - - - - 8 0 Podalyria styracifolia - - . - - 9 0 Aspalathus - - - - - 6in.to 4 O RAfnia (annual growth) - - - - 2ft.to3 O Sarcophyllum (annual growth) - - - tats Ubek :) Liparia sphee‘rica - - - - - 3 0 Acacia capénsis or nildtica - - - - 20 0 Acacia caffra - - - - - 12 0 The latter thrives best by being cut down and confined as a shrub to 6 ft. They both yield the gum arabic. Erythrina caffra attains the height of 60 ft., but flowers at the height of 15 ft. Erythrina nana, introduced by me to England in 1823; flowers at 2 ft., and may be considered as half-shrubby, as it scarcely ever attains a per- manent stem. It is a desirable plant. I hope that you will not consider the above too tedious; and should wish you to enforce some of the hints therein. I have no time for correc- tions, so that you must excuse all errors, as the cultivator would freely pardon the prolixity of the collector, if he had to encounter but one tenth part of the difficulties the latter meets with. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. JamEs Bowle. Cape-of Good Hope, February 16. 1831. 10 Common and Highland Pines, Art. III. An Account of the Common and Highland Pines, as found in Scotland. By J. G. Sir, Ir has lately been ascertained that there is a variety of pine in Scotland very different from, and greatly superior to, the common tree of that name, in size, quality, and durability. It has long been known, indeed, that the wood of the one is preferable to that of the other; yet people were always inclined to reckon them both under the general title of Scotch pine, and to take for granted that the difference must be occasioned by age, soil, or situation. That any or all of these causes can account for the difference is, I think, far from probable. How can age be thought a sufficient reason, while it is known that thousands of the common pine have arrived at maturity, and thousands have died, which at no period of their age were better than those which are every day felled for the most ordinary purposes? How can soil or situation be given as a reason, while it is known that the common pine is scattered over all Scotland, in as good soils and situations as those in which the superior sort grows, and yet are found, when cut up, to be but of inferior quality ? This superior variety abounds in the highland districts of Abernethy, in Strathspey, and in the north of Scotland; and the first individuals who col- lected the seeds, and raised plants of this sort, were Messrs. Alexander and John Grigor, nurserymen at Elgin and Forres, at whose nurseries plants of these pines are always to be found, and for whose exertions the Highland Society of Scotland awarded their premium. These gentlemen, in the short period of two years (the time they require before being fit for transplanting), raised and sold no less a quantity than two millions of the real highland pine, and thus put into the possession of landholders a variety that pro- duces wood equal to that brought from Norway. The late Mr. Don of Forfar considered that this pine, which I have termed a variety, should, on account of its great dissimilarity to the Pinus sylvéstris, its long tufted leaves, and the horizontal direction of its branches, constitute a distinct species, which might, with propriety, be termed Pinus horizontalis. The members of the Highland Society have adopted his opinion; and one of the most distinguished writers of the day (Sir Walter Scott), in an article in the Quarterly Review, some years ago, pointed out, with singular effect, not only its peculiarity of shape, &c., but the amazing durability of its wood. I shall record a circumstance that occurred in the north of Scotland, which proves, beyond the reach of doubt, that there must be two distinct species of Scotch pine. About fifty years ago, a young forester happened to be travelling over that district in which the real highland pme abounds. As he passed along, he observed a few small ones springing up among the heath; and being struck with the appearance they presented, and having a plantation of common ones going on at the time, he pulled one, wrapped it up, and, having arrived at his plantation, he planted it along with the rest, and placed a durable mark beside it. During the whole period of its growth, this tree presented a singular appearance; and when it was felled and cut up (which happened about ten years ago), it was found superior to any of the surrounding ones. Now, this is a proof that must remove every idea of a variation in soil, age, or situation accomplishing the existing dif- ference; a proof that there are in Scotland forests of a pine superior to the common, and remote enough from it to constitute a species. F Shall I yet be told, then, that there is no difference? Yes; there are still some who maintain it: and, but for this fact, I should have treated the subject in a different manner. There are still some who have, through as found in Scotland. li ignorance, attempted to overturn all this, and, in supporting their position, have employed the most unreasonable arguments. The march of discern- ment, however, is moving on, and, I rejoice to say, it will soon leave them in merited obscurity. I can account for their adopting such an opinion in no other way than by supposing that they have never seen the magnificent highland pines; for it is almost impossible that any person with his eyes open could pass over those districts in which they abound, without per- ceiving the difference in appearance; and it is well known that the wood- merchant, and the meanest carpenter on Scotia’s mountain side, can alike point out the superiority of the timber of the highland pine over that common worthless species which has been so long propagated, and with so little benefit to the country. The members of the Highland Society of Scotland have been among the first to direct attention to this subject, and their exertions have been successful. Landholders are now eagerly enquiring after the “ new sort,” as they call it, and are determined to banish the “ old” from their estates. They have long experienced the uselessness of the one, and are now con- vinced of the excellence of the other. They have seen that the common pine can only be used for paling fences or fuel; while the other can be applied to the most important purposes in building. It is pleasing to think that our northern gentlemen are now carrying on an improvement which must not only benefit themselves but the country generally; and alike pleasing to think that a proportion of those immense tracts of waste land, that everywhere abound in Scotland, may soon groan undey a load of pines equal to those that flourish on the Norwegian hills. It is truly astonishing to think, that, while some proprietors in Scotland are doing their duty in the way of planting the waste land on their estates, others, though possessing the means, are still allowing thousands of acres to lie idle, which might long ere now have been returning them a great recompense for the trifling expense of planting. They seem to have to- tally forgotten Sir Walter Scott’s anecdote of the dying laird’s advice to his son. Laying aside ornament, shelter, &c., planting has always been considered a good-speculation, on the score of pounds, shillings, and pence; and how can it be otherwise, when we know that plants of larch and Scotch pine can be furnished and planted for the small sum of twelve or fourteen shillings an acre ? I shall, perhaps, recur to this subject at some future period; and should any of the readers of your Magazine be inclined to doubt what I have brought forward, I shall be happy to meet their objections. T remain, Sir, yours, &c. Kensington, Dec. 1831. J.G. 12 MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE. Art. I. Notices of Plants recently imported, figured, or described, and such Notices of old Inhabitants of our Gardens as may be likely to interest the Cultivator or Amateur. : Cotumn 3. Habit. 7¥ Deciduous creeper, lig. or herb. | [_) Bark, or moist, stove. *¢ Deciduous tree. ¢ Evergreen creeper, lig. or herb. | —] Dry stove. © Evergreen tree. 3 Deciduous herbaceous plant. t_] Green-house, = Palm tree. y Evergreen herbaceous plant. —| Frame. % Deciduous shrub. a Grass. (ZA! Bark stove perennial. #% Evergreen shrub. % Bulbous plant. WW) Dry stove perennial. 1 Deciduous under-shrub. * Fusiform-rooted plant. tAj Green-house perennial, w Evergreen under-shrub. % Tuberous-rooted plant. _A| Frame perennial. _ Deciduous twiner, ligneous or Aquatic. {C)] Bark stove biennial. herbaceous. & Epiphyte.* OD) Dry stove biennial. $ Evergreen twiner, lig. or herb. ‘EQ Green-house biennial. -R Deciduous climber, ligneous or | CoLuMN 4. Duration and Habit- | ©) Frame biennial. herbaceous. atien, {O) Bark stove annual. a. Evergreen climber, lig. or herb. A Perennial. Oj Dry stove annual. .& Deciduous trailer, lig. or herb. © Biennial. tQ] Green-house annual. @. Evergreen trailer, lig. or herb. © Annual. Q) Frame annual. Where the tabular lines occur, the species whose details they contain are additional to those in Loudon’s Hér- tus Britdnnicus. Occasionally a species may be repeated for the sake of exhibiting its details more accurately than they are exhibited in the Hértus Britdnnicus. Such species will have a dagger (+) prefixed to them. To the genera new to the Hértus Britdnnicus a star (*) will be prefixed. The books cited in italics in the column for “ references to figures ” are quoted for description or incidental notices ; these being the best substitutes for figures or perfect descriptions, until figures or perfect descrip- tions are published. The dates introduced after hybrids are those at which they were raised from the hybridised seeds, as nearly as these dates can be ascertained. The numbers prefixed to the orders are those they bear in Lindley’s Introduction to the Natural System. Where blanks occur in the place of specific names, they will proceed from this cause: Professor Lindley deter- mines to figure showy hybrids and garden varieties, but neither to give them a Latin spevific epithet nor discriminative description, nor to state their relative place in systematic arrangements. Carton’s rhododen- dron, Low’s lobelia, and Young’s calceolaria are three instances ; but to the latter two the epithets in use in the nurseries are applied below. } ; Cuass JI. Plants endowed with a Vascular Structure and obvious Blossom. Suscxass [. Plants with Exogenous Growth and Dicotyledonous Seed. Dryiston I. Plants with a Polypetalous Corolla. I. Araliacece. Remarks on this order are incidentally expressed by Mr. David Don, in Sweet’s British Flower-Garden for Jan. 1832, t. 125. : they are these : — ‘‘ I wish here to correct a grave error, into which I had fallen in P76- * Epiphytes are plants growing upon other plants, deriving from the latter nothing but their local habitation ; parasites grow into, and absorb their nutriment from, the plants which bear them: epiphytes are numerous within the tropics; parasites are few everywhere, and, in Britain, limited to Viscum album, Céscuta purope’a, Cfiscuta Epithymum, Lathre*a Squamaria, the species of Orobanche, and many species of Fangus ; perhaps Mono6tropa Hypépitys, and a few other plants. J. E. Bowman, in late researches among the British parasitic plants, has seen cause to believe that Nedttia nidus Avis is not parasitic. — J. D. Notices of new and interesting Plants. 13 dromus Flore Nepalénsis, p. 186., in ascribing to the Aralidcee ‘ semina erecta’ [erect seeds] instead of “semina pendula’ [seeds pendulous]; and although J have been long aware of the bl it i . that I have had an opportunity of correcting Tag : Pee oe ye sereh ok This correction does not apply to Lindley’s Introduction, which accurately describes the seeds as pendulous. II. Umbellifere. 88la. PRA’NGOS Lindl. Prancos. (Native name most probably.) 5. 2. Umbelitfere. Dec. pr _ pabularia Lindl, food-yielding Y A ec}?1.. | Yshw E. Indies. tion $1 een » _ In the 9th number, recently published, of Wallich’s Rarer Astatic Plants, the prangos hay plant is figured and described ; and such extraordinary agricultural properties are ascribed to it that we take the earliest opportunity of noticing it to our readers, “Its properties as a food for agricultural animals appear to be heating, producing fatness in a space of time singularly short, and also destructive to the Fasciola hepatica, or liver fluke, which in Britain, after a wet autumn, destroys some thousands of sheep by the rot, —a disease that, to the best of my [ Mr. Moorcroft’s] knowledge, has in its advanced stages proved incurable. The last-mentioned property of itself, if it be retained by the plant in Britain (and there appears no reason for suspecting that it will be lost), would render it especially valuable to our country. But this, taken along with its highly nutritious qualities, its vast yield, its easy culture, its great duration [a single planting will continue in healthy and profitable growth for forty years or more ; hence the plant is a most durable perennial], its capability of flourishing on lands of the most inferior quality, and wholly unadapted to tillage, imparts to it a general character of probable utility, unrivalled in the history of agricultural productions. When once [it is] in possession of the ground, for which the preparation is easy, it re- quires no subsequent ploughing, weeding, manuring, or other operation, save that of cutting and of converting the foliage into hay. . .. From various facts it is conceived not unreasonable, to presume, that, by the cultivation of this plant, moors and wastes, hitherto uncultivated, and a source of dis- grace to British agriculture, may be made to produce large quantities of winter fodder, and that the yield of highlands and of downs enjoying a considerable depth of soil may be trebled.”’ Britain does not yet contain living plants of P. pabularia, although it appears that seeds of it were sent here as early as 1824. Whether when living plants be possessed, British winters may not be too severe for them, remains to be proved: but the writer above speaks as if he had little or no doubt on this point ; and, as the plant is from a temperate part of the East Indies (the neighbourhood of Imbal or Droz), it may possibly be sufficiently hardy. A figure of P. pabularia will be found in Vol. II. p. 355, under the remarks on Avracacia esculénta, a perfectly different plant. Ill. Ranunculicee § spirie. PEONIA Moitan carnea pléna, the semidouble tree peony, deserves to rank among the finest of the varieties of the beautiful species to which it belongs. In the gardens, where it is at present extremely rare, it is called ‘‘ the Double Papaveracea Peony ;” a name we are obliged to alter, because it is a variety of P. Moditan, and not of P. papaveracea. (Lindley in Bot. Reg. 1456.) In this order, that peculiar plant Knowltdnza rigida is (Jan. 15.) displaying its compound umbel of greenish-white flowers, in a green-house at the Chelsea Physic Garden ; where, in the open air, trained to the face of a wall, Clématis pedicellata Swz. (Clématis cirrhdsa @ pedicellata Dec.) abounds in,pendu- lous blossoms. This species is far more prevalent than may be suspected. Not many have observed the technical distinction which distinguishes it from C. cirrhvsa, whose blossoms are sessile, or nearly so, in relation to the involucre; while those of C. pedicellata are stalked. The Christmas rose (Helléborus niger) may be found in the gardens, exhibiting, in flowers recently opened, its snow-white sepals, which, as they advance in age, acquire a green colour, and ultimately a red one. X. Fumariacee. #2050a. DACTYLOCA’PNOS Wail. (Daktylos, finger, kapnos, fumitory ; berries finger-shaped.) 17. 2. thalictrifolia Wal. Thalictrum-lvdR © or 3 au.o Y.Br Nepal 1831.2?S sl Sw.fl.gar.2.s.127 Diélytra scandens Don Prod. Fl. Nep. q Possessed by Messrs. Whitley, Brames, and Milne, at Fulham. ! 2047. CORYDA‘LIS. 19187a bibracteata Haw. 2-bracted *% A or 3 fmy Pk aes ro 0 co Haworth, MSS. 2 XXIV. Malvacee. 2014, HIBISCUS palustris ZL. This lovely species is hardy, but the specimen figured was produced in a stove ; ~ for although the plant adorns the swamps of America, from Canada to Carolina, it does not blossom satis- factorily in the open air of England. This defect Professor Lindley imputes ‘‘ to the general lowness of our isothermal [open air] temperature.” [I have seen it blossom in the open air, planted in rich loam, at the base of a south wall; where its annual stems were stout, a yard high, and the foliage large and healthy.] Seeds of this charming plant may be procured abundantly from North America, and are often imported for sale along with other American productions. (Bot. Reg. 1463.) MA‘LV Aminiata. This mallow is deservedly prized for its free growth and abundantly produced ver- milion blossoms. It is suffrutescent, but is culturable as an annual : thought to be a native of Chile, hence not absolutely hardy. (Sweet’s Flower-Garden, n.s. 120., Nov. 1831.) é : In the Chelsea Botanic Garden, Malvaviscus arbodreus displays its flowers. A species of Hibiscus, whose name is not there known, now blooms at Young’s: in foliage and in flowers it approaches H. Ma- nthot. XXXVI. Hypericinee. 2. VYSMEA. : 78 glabra B. C. smooth sC)pr 5 jlau R Ss. Amer, ... € lp Bot. cab. 1752 XKLIV. Escallonite. 687. ESCALLO‘NIA. . + montevidénsisLindl. Monte Video %\_Jor 6 au Ww E, bffida Lk. § O. Hort. Brit. No. 28118. i “ : An Sane shrub, whose white flowers are produced in large corymbose panicles at the extremity Mon. Videoi827. C p.l Bot. reg. 1467 14 1588. LAGERSTRG2M/4. 13918 {ndica Notices of new and interesting Plants. of almost every shoot: they are very fragrant, with an odour resembling that of hawthorn. Compara- tively hardy, and deemed the finest species of Escallonéa yet in Britain. LIl. Salicdrie § Lagerstremiée. 2 7dsea B.C. rosy @ Jor 12 aus Ro China 1825. C rl Bot, cab. 1765 } LX. Proteacez. 316. GREVI/LLE4. planifdlia R.Br. MSS. flat-leaved # Jor 2 my.jn Ro N.S, W. 1828.2? C pl Bot. cab. 1737 G. concinna Lindi. in Bot. Reg. 1383., not of Brown’s Prod. nor of Sweet’s Mora Aust. It is the G. Seymotrée of Sweet’s MSS., and is admirably described, and thus denominated, by Mr. Sweet, in Gard. Mag., vol. vii. p. 506. The plant is in Low’s Nursery, and also in Colvill’s; and Mr. Riath, the skilful foreman of the latter establishment, remarks that Mr. Brown had in MSS. denominated it G. planifolia previously to Mr. Sweet’s naming it G. Seymouri@: as, therefore, a figure of the plant has since been published in the Botanical Cabinet, under Mr, Brown’s first applied name of G, planifolia, possibly this name had better be adopted, although Mr. Sweet was the first to publish a name and description of the species, His able description of it will be found in Gard. Mag., vol. vii. p. 506. Le Grevillea vosmarinifdlia is blooming at Knight’s and Young’s, G, linearis at Young’s, and G, arenaria at the Comte de Vandes’s. ( #326a. HEMICLI’DIA BR. Br. (Probably from hkemisus, half, and k/ezo, to shut up.) Proteaceer. Baxtérz R. Br. Baxter’s @# jor 3?jn Y Lucky Bay ... C pl Bot. reg. 1455 A very handsome evergreen shrub, recently from Lucky Bay in New Holland, well furnished with spiny oak-like leaves. It is closely allied to the genus Dryandra. Two fine plants of Hemiclidia Baxtétrz were blooming (20th) at Young’s. It is, indeed, a charming shrub ; its ‘* pinnatifid leaves, whose lobes are ended by a pungent mucro, are devoid of glands on the surface, but beneath are reticulated, veined, and the pitted areoles filled with a crispate wool, and sepa~ rately occupied by a gland in their bottom.” Brown. _ Mr. Brown, in the recently published First Supplement to the Prédromus of the Flora of New Holland, describes many new species belonging to this order; and, in the preface to the Supplement, exhibits some remarks on certain peculiarities which proteaceous plants present in the structure of their leaves. After briefly noticing the systematic parts of his book, he remarks, “I have also added under each genus a few observations mainly relating to the structure of the leaves, and more particularly descriptive of those organs belonging to the epidermis, which by many authors are called pores and stomata; but which by some are, and I think. with greater propriety, denominated glands. For these cutaneous glands, as far as I have been able to determine, are often truly imperforate, and exhibit a disk formed of a membrane in some cases transparent, in others opaque, and occasionally, though very rarely, coloured. Each of these glands, which are quite minute, occupies either wholly or in part one of the areoles of the epidermis; these areoles (or portions of the leaf which intervene the reticulations of a leaf) being usually small, but sometimes large, and generally more or less varied in their form. The figure of the glands themselves is usually oval, sometimes roundish, rarely dilated crosswise, and still more rarely they are angular. The limb is either composed of two distinct segments nearly parallel, but .slightly arched, or often annular and continuous, as if from the confluence of the two segments at their extremities : the disk is sometimes nearly oval, and sometimes linear, but very rarely angular ; it is not unfrequently double, the exterior one being usually oval; the interior one resembling a very narrow cleft, and being sometimes opaque, at others transparent, and sometimes, perhaps, perforate, In cer- ‘tain families of plants, the cutaneous glands are sometimes found only in the subface of the leaves, and sometimes they are found in both faces, i. e. subface and surface. They occupy both faces in all the proteaceous plants of southern Africa, except in Brabéjum, in which, as in all the hitherto known Protedcee of America, of Asia, and of the Islands af New Zealand and New Caledonia, the cutaneous glands are obvious in the subface only. About one third part of the proteaceous plants of New Holland exhibit leaves whose surface (not subface) is completely destitute of glands ; and this fact is the more remarkable, inasmuch as an especially large number of the trees and shrubs of Australia have both the faces of their leaves equally furnished with glands ; the prevalence of which structure, and this usually accompanied by the vertical position and exact similitude of the faces themselves, imparts an almost peculiar character to the woods, and especially to the extra-tropical ones, of New Holland and Van Diemen’s Land. In many genera, not only in this but in other orders, there prevails a conformity in the cutaneous glands in their figure and position, and in their proportion to the areoles of the epidermis; insomuch that, by accurate imspection of these organs, it is often possible to ascertain the limits of genera, and sometimes the affinities of genera or of their natural sections ; it must, nevertheless, be confessed that, in some genera, and in some of those of the New Holland Protedce@, considerable diversities in the figure and position of the glands may be found.” 5 At Knight’s, two specimens of Banksia ericifdlia, each 6 ft, high, are bearing numerous cones of owers. LXII. Av istolochiée.” -2582. ARISTOLO‘CHIA. 22844 caudata Lindl. tail-lipped 2 cu 5 jn Id _ Brazil 1828. Sk It.Lr Bot. reg. 1453 “* A creeping perennial from Brazil, with numerous branches extending for several feet trom the root, and sometimes attaching themselves to other plants which grow near them.” The leaves are dark glaucous green, roundish cordate, almost kidney-shaped near the root, but three-lobed towards the end of the branches. ‘The flowers are very extraordinary, being pitcher-shaped, of a yellowish brown colour, deeply marked with prominent veins on the outside ; the upper lip is fleshy, and similarly veined ; the under side of it, as well as the narrow elongated part, is of a very dark brown colour, tinged with yellow at the points. From the bottom to the throat of the flower is about 2in.: the length of the extraordinary caudate or tail-shaped “ lip is nearly 18in.”” ‘Thrives in light rich loam in the stove, ‘ and is readily increasable by its creeping roots. In affinity it is near 4. trilobata noticed in Vol. VII, p. 339. Raised at Sir Charles Lemon’s seat, Carclew, Cornwall. (Bot. Reg,, Nov. 1831.) LXXII. Sanguisérbee, i CEPHALO*TUS follicularis, the New Holland pitcher-leaf; a truly extraordinary and wonderful plant, The term pitcher-leaf instantly calls to mind the far-famed pitcher plant, Nepénthes distillatoria ; but Notices of new and interesting Plants. 15 this differs from that most essentially. Nepénthes distillatdria is an evergreen climbing plant, attaining the height of from twelve to twenty feet, and has its large ovate-lanceolate leaves disposed alter= nately along its stem, and each leaf sustains from its tip a long depending pitcher. In Cephaldtus there is no stem, save the flower scape, which is leafless, and but trom one to two feet high; and although the leaves and pitchers of the plant are produced altogether in a rosaceous radical tuft, the pitchers are distinct from the leaves, and have footstalks of their own. Dr. Hooker describes the plant minutely and excellently, and illustrates it by two plates; one exhi- biting the entire plant ; the other, magnified dissections of its pitcher, flowers, and fruit. ‘The leaves are clustered, elliptical lanceolate, petiolated, entire, thickish, nerveless, and purplish; and amongst these, but principally occupying the circumference [of the cluster or tuft], are several beautiful and highly curious pitcher-shaped appendages. These are ovate or somewhat slipper-shaped, between foliaceous and membranaceous, green tinged with purple, furnished with two lateral oblique wings, and one central one; the latter remarkably dilated at the margin, and all beautifully fringed with hairs, The inside, which contains a watery fluid, and entraps many insects, especially ants, is clouded with dark purple. The-mouth is contracted, horseshoe-shaped, annulated, and crested with several deep, sharp, vertical annuli, of a dark purple colour, each of which, as Mr. Scott pointed out, terminates in a sharp point that projects over the mouth ef the pitcher, as if, possibly, to prevent the escape of the entrapped insects. Lid of the pitcher flattish convex, green without, and a little hairy, within clouded with purple, marked with broad veins, and scalloped at the margin; at first the lid closes the mouth of the pitcher, but afterwards becomes nearly erect. (Bot. Mag. 3118, 3119.) 5 Living individuals of this extraordinary and wonderful plant are thriving in one of the stoves in Mr, Knight’s Exotic Nursery, under the skilful management of Mr. Scott. LXXIII. Rosacee § Spireicee. PU’RSHIA tridentata. ‘ A hardy inelegant bush, having a glaucous aspect, and dull pale greenish yellow flowers.’ From North-west America, by Mr. Douglas. Flowered in the Chiswick Garden, for the first time in April, 1830. Grows freely in heath-mould, and is easily propagated by layers. (Bot. Reg. 1446.) Desirable to all possessing a taste at all botanical, both on account of the botanist it commemorates, and of its conspicuous distinctness of character. Rosacee \ Dryddee. 1537. SIEVE’RSIA. ; [iourn. 1831, 193. rosea Grah. rosy y A or 34 my Rocky mo. 1827. D p.l Edin. n. phil. Sent home by Mr, Drummond. a LXXVII. Leguminise § Sophtrex. 1251. GOMPHOLO‘BIUM. Knight¢anem Lindl. Knight’s wpejel ¢ aus B New Holl.1830. S p.l Bot. reg. 1468 “ Ut is a delicate plant, requiring a good airy situation.” Raised by Mr. Knight, trom Baxter’s seeds. BAPTI'SIA perfoliata “ Coming from the dry sandy hills of Georgia, it might well be supposed to be a tender plant; hence, Messrs. Loddiges and others deem it a green-house plant. In the peat border of the American ground, Glasgow Botanic Garden, it has survived two winters, and flowers in great per- fection during July and August. The yellow blossoms are neither large nor showy ; but its perfoliate leaves of so unusual a character for a leguminous plant, and their tender glaucous green colour, render it eminently deserving a place in every garden.” (Bot. Mag. 3121.) Leguminodse § Lotee § 1. Genistee. 1968. ONO‘NIS section Natri/p1uM. peduncularis Lindl. peduncled w _Jfr 1 ap W.Ro Teneriffe 1829. S s. Bot. reg. 1447 A pretty new species from Teneriffe, so not hardy; slightly shrubby, simple-leaved, blooms in April, and has whitish corols margined with rose. Messrs. Young of Epsom have the plant. LO*‘EUS jacobe‘us. Mr. Maund has grown as an annual, by planting in the open air, as soon ag the frosts of spring are past, a plant from the green-house, which, by autumn, produced seeds to sow as annual seeds in the spring following. (Bot. Gard. 326., Oct. 1831.) Leguminise \ Litee § 5. Astragalee. 2100. PHA‘CA. 418846a astragalina Dec. Astragalus-likey A pr 1 jn.jl_ W.8 Scotl. Clovamo.S sl Bot. cab.429 j A newly discovered addition to the native flora of Britain. Leguminise \ Hedysdree § 2. Euhedysaree. 1980. ADE’SMIA. glutindsa Gill. § Hook. slender-lvd # Jor 2 .. Y Chile 1831. S s.l Hook.ch.plants. : Leguminose § Victée. 2136. LA’THYRUS. 19322a decaphYllus Pk. _ ten-leaved k Aor 4 jn R.Li N. Amer. 1829. S co Bot. mag. 3123 “ his is a highly ornamental species, and well merits a place in every flower border.” L. grandifldrus. Remarks on this splendid and now well known species will be found, p. 50. Yo O/ROBUS canéscens.* A hardy perennial species; most desirable for its “‘ large ‘blossoms, whose colour is a rich purple, becoming more blue when fully expanded.” (Bot. Mag. 3117.) O. Fischéri, ‘ A pleasing hardy perennial, 1ft. in height; with slender stem,” narrow leaves, and racemes of deep red blossoms produced in May and June. Increased by seeds, and likes light loam. (Bot. Cab., 1740., Oct. 1831.) Leguminise \ Cassié@. , ¥1269a. CASTANOSPE’/RMUM Cun. Moreron Bay CHESTNUT. (Castanea, chestnut; sperma, seed; taste.) australe Cun. southern @\Jifr 40 ... Saf N. Holl. 1828. S 1 Bot. mis. 51, 52 This tree is thus spoken of in the second part of the Botanical Miscellany, in a most interesting article by C. Fraser, entitled “ Journal of a Two Months’ Residence on the Banks of the Rivers: Brisbane and Logan, on the East Coast of New Holland.” On July 4. 1828, Messrs. Fraser, Cunning- 16 Notices of new and interesting Plants. ham, and others, accompanied Captain Logan to examine a fresto on the banks of a stream, called Break- fast Creek, three miles north-west of Brisbane Town, noted for its gigantic timber, and the vast variety of its plants. Of these they mention several by name, and, in proceeding, remark : this forest abounds in Urtica gigas, as well as in an unpublished and most interesting new plant, Castanospérmum australe Cunningham and Fraser’s MSS., that produces fruit larger than a Spanish chestnut, by which name it is here known. The tree is forty feet and upwards in height, its blossoms papilionaceous and saffron-coloured, disposed in racemes, and produced from the two-years-old wood. The legumes are large, solitary, and pendent; the leaves, which are nearly a foot in length, are impari-pinnate, each leaflet being oval, lanceolate, and of a rich green; and Mr. Fraser remarks, “ the shade afforded by the whole tree excels that of any other I have hitherto seen in New South Wales.’”’ By the natives the large and handsome seeds are eaten on all occasions, and have, when roasted, the flavour of a Spanish chestnut ; and I have been assured by Europeans, who have subsisted on them exclusively for two days, that no other unpleasant effect resulted than a slight pain in the bowels, and that only when they were eaten raw. Mr. Bowie’s admirable article (p.5.) on the Legumindse, teaching the native soils various species affect, their native heights and habits, and communicating numerous valuable suggestions for their suc- cessful cultivation in British collections, merits every attention. At Young’s, the principal leguminous plant in blossom (20th) is Kennédya monophylla 2 longerace- mdsa ; and its graceful climbing habit, pleasing foliage, and long lax racemes of lilac blossoms render it a choice ornament of the season. Mr. Penny considers it too distinct from K. monophylla to bea variety. Here, also, are blooming Acacia Bréwndz and lophantha, and lunata will be in bloom in a fortnight, Choriztma nana, Dillwynéa junipérina, and Glycine bituminosa, although this last but partially. At Knight’s, a fine shrub of Priestléya hirsita is becoming splendid with numerous short dense spikes of beauteous golden blossoms. Elsewhere have been observed Indig6fera cytiséides and Coronilla glatica. The elegantly variegated variety of the latter would more prevail in country collec- tions were it better known. Furze on heaths is gay with partial blossom. XCIII. Celastrinec. 666. EUO’NYMUS. bullatus B. C. bullate # Jun... my.jn Pk Nepal 1828.2 C lp Bot. cab. 1749 CXXI. Pittosporee. *67la. SOPLLYA Lindl. Sottya. (Richard Horsman Solly, F.R.S., &c. &c.) 5.1. Pittosporee. 2. heterophyllaZznd/. various-leaved $ ._Jor 5 jl B New Holl.1830. S p.l Bot. reg. 1466 ‘¢ Likely to prove a very fine green-house climber: ” its blossoms are blue, beautiful, and produced in nodding cymes. Figured from Mr. Knight’s Exotic Nursery, where plants during summer, on a wall with a western aspect, have grown most vigorously, and in this situation, as lately as Jan. 20. 1832, were abounding in deep green leaves, as if unhurt by all the past frost. angustifolia Lind. narrow-leaved $ L_Jor ~ 8 jnau B V. Die. L. 1823. S p.l Bot. reg. 1466 Billardiéra Sm. fusifé6rmis Zab. Hort. Brit. No. 5530. p. 84. Professor Lindley found this genus on the hitherto considered species of Billardiéra which possess a chartaceous pericarp; the fruit of the legitimate species of Billarditra being a pulpy berry. Tn Séllya@ heterophylla the structure of the petals is lamellate, that is, of two plates or pieces as if grown back to back. The tubular-coloured calyx of Daphne Mexéreum (which will shortly blossom) will be found to exhibit a similar structure. 5 Ofer Eittceporun undulatum, a variety with its leaves strongly and constantly variegated exists at olvill’s, : CXXII. Geraniacee. 1932. GERA‘NIUM. 17234a albiflorum Hook. white-flowered Y A or 12su Wsh N. Amer. 1827. D co Bot. mag. 3124 Approaches in habit and general appearance both G. praténse and G. maculatum ; but differs from each in sufficient characters, and in its constantly white blossoms: these are copiously produced during the summer months, and the plant is readily multiplied by division. Has ‘been called G. eoaniene andia variety of G. angulatum: was brought home at the return of Franklin’s second CXXIII. Ovaiidee. 1414. OK ALIS. i) E 11902a crenata Jac. notched-petaled %& A esc 3 jls Y Peru 1829. O sl Sw.fl.gar.2.s.125 O. Arracacha G. Don. Syst. Bot. and Gard. 1. 756. ‘ ; Cultivated abundantly in the gardens about Lima as a salad, for which purpose its succulent stems and acid flavour seem strongly to recommend it. It grows freely in our open borders, is readily increased by cuttings as well as by its tubers, which require to be taken up and preserved from frost in the manner potatoes are. The tubers are produced in considerable plenty, and are often two inches long, and an inch in diameter. When raw they are slightly subacid; but on being boiled they lose this acidity entirely, and taste very much like the potato, for which they might form occasionally an agreeable substitute at the tables of the curious. : CXXIX. Polygdlee. *2055a. MONNI‘N4 R. & P. Monnina (Monnino, Count de Flora Blanca, a Spaniard, and patron of botany.) obtusifolia H. § Kth. obtuse-lvd (_jor ... jn Rsh.P Lima 1830. S pl Bot. mag.3122 © A small upright-branched shrub, with glaucous leaves of the size and shape of those of box: its branches terminated by racemes of small purplish red pea-shaped blossom. Sent in 1830 from Lurin near Lima by Mr. Cruikshanks, and is described from dried specimens in Hooker’s Botanical Miscellany, vol. ii. p, 208,. as M. nemordsa. i In this order, Polygala grandiflora, tetragin2, and oppositifolia,.and Murdltia stipulacea and mixta, are blooming in all the collections in which they are kept. _CXXX. Violacea. 701. PI‘OLA. $5748a suavis Bieb. fragrant fra } sp} Pa.B Ukrai p ‘ E Re Se eat ee Zz CAN + Pi a Yraine 1823. D co Sw.-fi.gar.2.s.126 Notices of new and tnteresting Plants. WG Has paler herbage, and paler and larger flowers, than /. odorata, which it equals in freedom of growth; its flowers are said to be numerous and fragrant. I have cultivated the plant, and deem it Jess desirable than V. odorata. Plants of the latter, in sheltered situations, have expanded a partial succession of fragrant flowers from Michaelmas till now; but the time for its fullest flowerins are the sunny days of April. CXL. Caryoph§lice \ Siinez. 1388. SILE‘NE 11480 maritima 2 flore pléno double-flwd ¥ A tk 3 jlo W England seash.S. ru A most eligible plant for furnishing and decorating rockwork. Should its doubleness prevent its increase by seeds, it will, without much difficulty, be multiplicable by cuttings. 11620a laciniata Cav. cut-petaled ~ Ajor 13 ji S} Mexico 1823. S s.1 Bot. reg. 1444 A handsome striking species. ‘* Root perennial; stem decumbent, 12 ft. long, pubescent; leaves oblong lanceolate, pale green, pubescent ; flowers terminal, scarlet,” large, and each of the petals 4-cleft. pause of Mexico, consequently not perfectly hardy in Britain, and has hitherto proved to be difficult to cultivate. Dianthus crenatus (20th) is flowering in a green-house at Messrs. Young’s. Their plant is a graceful slender shrub, inheightzabout 2 ft. Its narrow leaves are of a pleasing delicate green, and the petals of the long-tubed fiower are white, and crenatezin their margin. CXLVII. Crassulicee. 913. RO‘CHEA Dec. The Lardchea of Loudon’s Hort. Brié., p. 112. should be Rdcheaz. Decandolle, in his Prod. 3. 393., very properly asks why should Rochea he corrupted into Lardchea, when the articles are never admitted as part of the name; for example, La Billarditre supplies the generic name Billardiéra, Du Hamel that of Haméléa,&c. To these may be added the name De Candolle, from which the genus Canddllea is derived; L’Heritier, Heritiéra; Trochttia, after Dutrochet; Peyrousia after La Peyrouse, and so of many others. Crassula lactea is now (Jan. 15.) blooming beautifully in a frame in the Chelsea Garden, and in 4 green-house with Mr. Haworth: it is a charming species. LEchevérza coccinea is in blossom at oung’s, ; CXLVIIL Ficdidee. LEDOCA’RPUM. Relative to this genus, given Vol. VIL., p. 345., Mr. David Don, in the Edin- burgh New Philosophical Journal, Oct. 1831, has, at p. 276., the tollowing remarks : —‘ It is the genus Balbisza of Cavanilles in the Anales de Ciencias Naturales, published at Madrid in 1802; and the genus Ledocarpon of Desfontaines, published in 1818.” Mr. Brown has shown the genus Balbisza of Willdenow to be the same with Linnzus’s genus Tridax ; consequently the law of priority by which Tridax L. abrogates Balbisia Willd., causes Balbiséa Cav. to abrogate the genera Ledocarpon Desf. and Cruikshankséa Hook. Mr. Don refers this genus Balbisia to Ficoidez, which he considers it connects with the small group Reaumuriczc. Diyiston if. Plants with a Monopetalous Corolla. LXIX. Sapdtez. A*CHRAS Sapéta. ‘* Common sapota, or bullytree. One of the largest trees in the mountainous woods of Jamaica. The timber it yields is considered of great service in the making of shingles to corn- houses. The wood is white; the bark is brown, astringent, and commonly known by the name of cortex jamaicensis; being, according to Brown, frequently administered to the negroes in lieu of the jesuit’s bark, and found to answer all the purposes of that medicine. The seeds are aperient and diuretic. The tree is a native of the West Indies, Jamaica included; and is cultivated abundantly throughout all the hot parts of South America, for the sake of its fruit, which in appearance somewhat resembles an old and decayed potato, and yet is the most luscious of the West Indian fruits; but so abounds in an acrid milk, that it cannot be eaten until it is completely ripe, or, according to French authors, until it almost begins to be putrid. It is then served at all tables, and generally esteemed.” (Bot. Mag. 3111, 3112.) 3 CLXX. Eicee § vere. 1173. ERICA. 9530a caléstoma Lo. C. pretty-mouthed# |_Jor 1 my.jn F Eng. hyb.? ... C s.p Bot. cab. 1759 ‘This is usually considered a variety of ventricdsa, and is probably hybrid between it and some other kind. It is an elegant plant, flowers in May and June, and lasts long in bloom. (Bot. Cab.) Erica trifldya. The flowers are white ‘and delicate. (Bot. Cab. 1733.) — Erica cylindrica. ‘“‘ Its red flowers are produced in May and June in rich profusion : they are particularly splendid, and often form a dense spike 2 ft. in length. It is one of the most vigorous-growing kinds, and should have particularly large pots, and be watered unsparingly ; in default of which, it becomes starved, and soon dies. Increased by cuttings. (Bot. Cab. 1734.) Nias £. tréssula rubra. “ It is an exceedingly beautiful kind, upright in its growth; the red flowers are produged the utmost profusion, usually during the months of April and May. (Bot. Cab, 1742. ov. 1831. ‘ Ericee \ Rkodoracee. 1339. RHODODE/NDRON. . T10256* [f.,. 00... ceeces ] Carton’s Lindi. 2 or 3 jn Li Eng hybrid 1825. L s.p Bot. reg. 1449 “Vv *Carton’s Rhododendron. Another of the Highclere hybrids, which Professor Lindley, at the request of J. R. Gowen, Esq. has named after Mr. James Carton, gardener to the Earl of Caernarvon. This is the finest hybrid of a set of hybrids, of which the following is the history given: — “ Ninety-seven plants were raised in the Highclere garden, in the year 1825, from a specimen of Azalea nudiflora, which had been purposely touched with pollen of Rhododéndron catawbiénse. They vary in habit, m the size of the umbel, and in the deeper or fainter purple tint of the corolla; but bear a family resem- blance to each other, and form very neat compact bushes. The foliage is elegant, lucid, deep green ou. VIII. — No. 36, c 18 Notices of new and interesting Plants. smooth ; and persistent in ordinary winters. In seasons of more than usual severity it becomes deci- duous, the flowers in that case being fully expanded before the leaves are much advanced in growth. The leaves are about half the size of those of Ahododéndron catawbiénse, and, like them, are in a con- siderable portion of the specimens convex, but are much thinner in texture. When they first appear, they are apt to be of a pale, sickly hue, which soon gives place to a healthy colour. The male type pre- dominates in all the specimens. Cuttings of these intermediate varieties strike more readily than those of either Azalea or Rhododéndron.” Carton’s Rhododendron has a largish umbel of numerous smallish lilac blossoms, and these were produced in June, Seems a very desirable variety. (Bot. Reg. 1449. Nov. 1831.) - oy palchrum Sw. Smith’s beautiful __Jor 3 ap.jl Ro Eng.hybrid 1827.C s.p Sw.fl.gar.2.s.117 All the plants which used to be called azaleas some botanists now call rhododendrons: so the A. pulchrum above is, in fact, a hybrid from Azalea indica, and is the plant called Rhododendron indicum y Smith in Sweet’s Hort. Brit., ed. 2. p. 343.; and is the Azalea indica y var. Smithz of some others. R. pilchrum was raised by Mr. Smith of Coombe Wood, Kingston, from seeds of Azalea Jedifdlia, impregnated, about four years ago, by the pollen of the old red Azalea indica. It is a splendid mule, the corollas of which are “‘ very large and handsome, above 2 in. in length, and about 3 in. in width when expanded, and of a bright rosy purple, spotted on the inside with bright red spots.”” Mr. Smith also raised, at the above time, several other hybrids of this genus, which he expects to blossom next spring. indicum var. ignéscens Svvt. fiery % _Jspl 2 mr.my Bt.C China .. C pl Sw.fl.gar.2.s.128 “ This splendid variety was imported by Mr. Tate. It differs from the old #. indicum in being much more branched, with the branches more slender and spreading, instead of upright. ‘The flowers are smaller, but more abundant, and of a brighter crimson. R. lapponicum is figured in Bot. Mag. 5196. It is a floral gem brought from Canada by Mr. Blair in 1825. Flowered at Cunningham’s Nursery, at Comely Bank, near Edinburgh, in July, 1530. This ever- green procumbent shrub, whose branches are about 6in. long, and its dark green ovate leaves four lines long and three broad, “ inhabits the alpine ridges of the low grounds in the extreme arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and America. The bruised leaves are fragrant, yielding a smell which Pallas compares to that of turpentine. The flowers are exceedingly beautitul.”” The corollas are three fourths of an inch across, funnel-shaped, and crimson. Mr. Blair mentions in our Vol. VII. p. 237. finding a solitary plant of this on the White Mountains. 621. AZA*LEA 4347 nudifldra. 1194. VACCY’NIUM. scintillans Lindl. sparkling & or 4 my.jn O.s Eng.hyb. 1827.2 L s.p Bot. reg. 1461 Another Highclere hybrid, obtained from seed of A. coccinea major, impregnated by the pollen of A. pontica: very beautiful. (Bot. Reg.) The genus Zrica contributes more to the decoration of the green-house at this season than any other genus. Their own peculiar elegance wins for them the high estimation of all; but they seem to bespeak this still more intensely by displaying their loveliness, their beauty, and their elegance, at the present comparatively flowerless season, when Flora’s spleen-dispelling smiles are ever doubly welcome. At Colvill’s the following kinds were observed in bloom on Jan. 15: — With tubular corols, trans- parens, viridéscens, elata, colodrans, Archér?, pelliicida, mutabilis, linneededes, cerinthoides. With small corollas, gracilis autumnal and vernal, regérminans, and tenélla. With inflated corols, 4ardens, vérnix, vernix coccinea, grandindsa with blossoms, as the word implies, seasonably resembling hail-stones, Lambértz, pyramidalis, and ramentacea. In this nursery was then also blooming, the Enkianthus quinquefldrus ; one of its clusters, however, consisted of at least seven flowers. The flowers themselves are exquisite pendulous flesh-coloured bells, each large enough to admit the extremity of the little finger, and in the base of which are five largish cavities (in the manner of Cyclobéthra somewhat), all filled to overflowing with a sweet nectareous fluid. At Young’s are many héaths in blossom, and one without a name, powerfully fragrant like the flowers of hawthorn, but more agreeable: its flowers are small and numerous. The following kinds were blooming here (Jan. 20.) ; but want of time prevented then, and also subsequently, their distribution into sections as above : — Erica plumdsa Erica discolor Erica pubéscens gracilis vérna corifolia cupréssina Sai. Linnze ‘a ventricdsa of Andrews’s rubida Lod. ignéscens fig. not of the gardens hirtifldra Sis. soccifldra : pre’stans laxa elongata i Sebana lutea rubens vestita purpurea carnea (hardy) arbuscula Aspera coccinea hirta And. echiiflora sparsa pellucida And. penicillata refalgens And. nidularia ardens Cushinidna Lee i CLXXII. Vacciniée. C journ. 1831. 193 humifisum Grah. earth-spread 2. el im W Rocky mo.1827. L p Edin. n. phil. : 5 My An interesting species, resembling in habit Mitchélla répens: it likes dry open borders, and produces a very fine-flavoured fruit, called in America the edible cherry, but has hitherto flowered very sparingly in the Edinburgh and Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Sent home by Mr. Drummond. Of the greater or American cranberry, Oxycéccus macroc4rpus (Vaccinium macrocarpum that was), there exists in Knight’s Nursery, and in some other collections, a variety with its leaves prettily varie- gated: this should be sought after by the curious cultivator. CLXXIV. Campanulicee. 1177. MICHAU’XI4. + levigata Ven. smooth ¥ .Ajor 11 auo W _ N. Persia 1820. S rl Bot. mag. 3128 Every part of the plant yields, on the slightest injury, a large quantity of milky juice ; a characteristic Notices of new and interesting Plants. 19 of the order Campanulacee, to which it belongs. The height to which the flower stem attai 2 : ongs. tained, eleven ie vile Wn ee ; the plant grew in the open border. — See other remarks on this order in CLXXY. Lobeliacex. 609. LOBE‘LIA. robusta F7s. robust (Wor ...au Pp Hayti 1830. Dsl Jam.j 378 5103a [speciosa Hort. Low’sshowy ¥ Ajor 2 my.o P Scotch hyb.1830. D p.1 Bot. ee The iatter is perhaps perfectly hardy, and produces its beautiful deep lilac (purple, as some would call them) blossoms from May to October. A desirable plant, and easy of cultivation. It is presumed to have been originated between L. syphilitica and either falgens, cardinalis, or spléndens. CLXXVL. Stylidiée. 9581. Ee eg A 99898 fasciculatum R.Br. bundle wttpr 2 au Pk New Holl.1830. S s.p Bot. reg. 145 Raised at Mr. Knight’s Exotic Nursery, from seeds introduced by Mr. Bator and Eee ere, handler than marked above: it is an eligible plant for decorating the hardy flower-garden during summer. scandens climbing f. wJor i2n. Pk KgGoS8d.1830? C p BrownProd.570 “The flowers of this very pretty species were slowly developed, remained long expanded, and appeared on one raceme in succession during the whole month of November. Other racemes are now (Dec. 10. 1831) beginning to appear ; so that I doubt not the plant will be a great ornament to the green- house during the whole winter.” (Graham in Edin. Phil. Jour. 1832, p. 187.) : CLXXXIII. Plumbaginee. 929, ST A/TICE. 7506a pubérula Webb downy-leaved yijcu 3 my V.w 1.Graciosa1830. S co Bot. reg. 1450 “ Apparently near S. furfuracea of La Gasca.” ‘The calyx is of a violet colour, the corolla white. acerdsa Bieb. needle-pointed yy _|cu 2 jnjl Pa.Pk M.Ararat1829. S Ip Bux. c. 2.18. 10 CLXXXVI. Composite § Labiatiflore. *2448a, CENTROCLI’NIUM D. Don. (Kentron, sharp point, Aliné, bed.) 19. 2. Compdsite Labiatiflire. refléxum Hook, reflexed-scaled {O)or 2 au Ro Peru 1830. S It Bot. mag. 3114 Onéseris salicifdlia of Hum. § Kth. is thought to be near akin to this. appréssum Hook. appressed-scaled # [—] 2 jn Ro Peru 1830. S It Bot. mag. 3115 “ Differs from C. albicans D. Don, in its entire leaves ; and from Ondseris angustifolia Hum. & Kth. in its larger and broader foliage.”’ A Peruvian genus of syngenesious plants, with rosy marginal florets. Very interesting plants to botanists, but scarcely sufficiently ornamental for those who regard .flowers only for their splendour. The blossoms produced in autumn are endowed with a high degree of hawthorn-like fragrance. Composite §\ Vernoniacer, 2262, VERNONIA. 20475a axillifldra Lessing’ axil-flwd a (TJ or 12 allsea Li Bahia C sl Bot. reg. 1464 * Beautiful; flowers all the year, and is propagated with the greatest facility from cuttings, which will blossom when only a few inches high.” Compésite § Astéree. 2337a, HAXTO‘NIA Caley. (John Haxton, gardener attached to Macartney’s expedition to China.) Comp. argophylla Caley A’ster argophyllus Zab. Mr. David Don describes and defines this genus, Haxtonza, in the Edinburgh New Philosophical Journal, Oct. 1831, p. 272., and refers to it the A ster argophyllus Lab., viscosus Lab., phlogopappus Zad., stellulatus Lab., and tomentosus Weld. and Hort. Kew. . Composite \ Heliinthee. 2331. MA DIA. 21057 élegans D. Don elegant © or ii aut Y N.W.Amer.1831.S co Bot. reg. 1458 New, but neither elegant nor beautiful, except in comparison with other known madias. One Chilean species of Mada is famous for the oil expressed from its seeds. MW. élegans was sent home by Douglas, to the Horticultural Society. 2412. GAILLA’/RDJA, spelled GALA/RDIJA in Loudon’s Hort. Brit. p. 358. This error Professor Lindley corrects in the Botanical Register, vol. 14. t. 1186., published Oct. 1. 1828, in these words, “‘ Botanists usually write this word GalArdia, an obvious inaccuracy [as it is named after M. Gaiilard], the origin of which is said by M. Cassini to be chargeable upon Lamarck, 2363. GEORGISNA 21591 supérfilua ; Blood red anemone-flowered variety, Maund’s Botanic Garden, 297. Painted lady anemone-flowered variety, Maund’s Botanic Garden, 329. : Georginas “ enrich autumn with a splendour which rivals June, with its pyramids of roses and mid- summer gaieties.” — Maund. Among georginas two varieties of great interest are expected to be much in request in the ensuing spring; one, the King of the Whites, was imported in 1830, and has excellent properties ; the principal of which are, the purity of its white, and the earliness and abundance of its blossoms, which are well displayed above the herbage: its height is about 4 ft. The 2d (raised in 1830) is Miss Wright, sodenomin- ated in compliment to the American authoress of this name by the Conductor, who was requested to name the flower by the possessor of the stock, Mr. Michael Brewer, Cambridge, who raised the Cambridge Sur- prise. The Miss Wright georgina is a delicate and distinct flower, of medium size, possessing consider- able depth and fulness of petals, which are elegantly quilled, and of an exquisite rose colour. Some interesting facts on the variableness of georginas from seeds are stated in p. 47. ; and though the amount (ole) oe 20 Notices of new and interesting Planis. of these remarks is possibly familiar to every grower of georginas, a record of actual cases is valuable, as furnishing data for subsequent and ultimate inferences. s : In Compésitz, only the following have, within the writer’s recent observation, been observed in blossom : —Cineraria cruénta (for able directions for cultivating this beautiful plant with success see Vol. IL. p. 153.) ; Néja gracilis, which is really an interesting plant; Agatha amelldides, but which seems scarcely in season; and Pyréthrum grandifldrum. Caléndula graminifolia, at Young’s, will be in bloom in a week or so;, its blossoms are very showy. _ Pheenécoma prolifera here and there displays 2 ruby head. In the open air, in sheltered spots, one beneath a house wall in a town garden, Tussilago fragrans, displays its fowers in numerous racemes; these are not conspicuous, but elegant on close inspection, and for their fragrance past all praise. § CXCI. Caprifoliacee. 621. CAPRIFOSLIUM. 28106a occidentile Lindl. western 12 or 20 jnau © Ft.Vancouv.1824.C co Bot. reg. 1457 Resembles the common honeysuckle, but is not so hardy. It has very ornamental orange-coloured flowers, but not good foliage; is near akin to C. cilidsum, Douglas/i, and parviflorum. (Bot. Reg.) fhirstitum Dens. hairy-leaved -@ .or 20 my.jn Y Canada 1822 € co Bot. mag. 3103 Lonicéra hirsuta Haton in his Manual of Botany, Hooker in Curt. Bot. Mag., 3103. _Caprifdlium pubéscens of Loudon’s Hort. Brit., No. 5213., and of Hooker’s Exotic Flora, 27.; but Dr. Hooker hav- ing since learned that Mr. Haton, an American botanist, was the first to publish this species, and by the name of Lonicérw hirsita, in his Manual of Botany, now thinks it right to reinstate Haton’s name. Perhaps Dr. Hooker, by retaining the plant under Lonicéra, does not acknowledge the genus Capri- folium. wat Vibarnum Tinus is now partially in blossom every where. /”. rugdsum is trained to the front of a green-house, outside, at Colvill’s, and retains its foliage well, but the leaves are not the prettiest. Ivy, *€ sreen and shining,” looks every where refreshingly. 4 CC. Polemonidcee. 472. PHLO’X. ‘ 3922a aristata B. C. awned 2. Alpr 3 ap Ww Carolina .. C pl Bot. cab. 1731 A species with almost the foliage and habit of P.setacea, and with blossoms apparently white, and resembling somewhat those of P. nivalis. If this be the P. aristata of Michaux, it proves the latter to be distinct enough from P. pildsa Bot Mag., with which P. aristata has been thought identical, : CCVII. Primulécee. PRI’MULA ciliata. Corollas pale flesh-coloured. A light loam suits it well, and the plant is readily increased by parting. It is admirably adapted for rockwork, where its showy and early blossoms, it being one of the earliest of the auricula tribe, cannot fail to attract notice in the spring. Drawn from Col- vill’s. (Swé. Fl. Gaz. 2. s, 123.) ‘ Primula pre‘nitens, lilac and white, is in bloom wherever kept. This comparatively hardy (it will thrive thoroughly in a well-aspected frame), freely growing, abundantly blooming species is an important importation, far more so than those unique plants which are with difficulty kept alive, and still more diffi- cultly cultivated: hence the value of the Horticultural Society’s introductions, through the agency of Mr. Douglas. Primula Palintr? is (Jan. 15.) in bloom in a green-house at Colvill’s. Cyclamen cdum and vérnum are in bloom about in pits and frames ; and of C. pérsicum fragrans saw a plant in blossom. at Dennis’s, and one at Young’s. CCXI. Scrophularine. 65. CALCEOLA‘RIA. _578a [Young Hort.] Young’s hybrid yf \A| spl 3 my.o OchSpotEng. hybrid 1830. D r.m Bot. reg. 1448 a this remarkably splendid hybrid, and on other hybrid calceolarias, some remarks are offered, p. 48. C. plantaginea, ‘* Flourishes in a strong red loam and cool situation, and yields a plentiful increase by offsets.” Bot. Gard. 328., Oct. 1831.) _C. arachnéidea. This has been proved nearly hardy in various gardens, and is a native of high eleva- tions in Chile. There ‘ many people are employed in digging up the roots, which they dry and collect in bundles for sale, the plant being in great use there, for dyeing woollen cloths of a deep crimson colour. Thealum earth employed as a mordant in the process is obtained in abundance from a mountain in the neighbourhood.” (Bot. Reg. 1454, Nov. 1831.) : *1783a. LEUCOCA’RPUS D. Don. Lerucocarpus. (Leukos, white, and karpos, fruit.) 14, 2. Scrophuldrine. alatus D. Don. winged-stalked O?cu 2 0 Ys Vera Cruz 1830. S pl Sw.fl.gar.2.s.124 Condbea alata Graham, Mimulus perfoliatus Bot. Mag. 3076. Agrees so entirely with Mimulus, both in general appearance and in the form and structure of its flowers, that, without the fruit, no one can doubt the propriety of referring it to that genus ; but its white berries being once seen, it will be evident that the plant can neither be referred to Mimulus nor “to any other’genus hitherto established among the Scrophularinz.’”” Expected to prove hardy. Pub. lished from Whitley and Co,’s, Fulham, 1787. TORE‘NTA. ‘sedbra Grah, rough -leaved Ou Pe U «« _P Moreton Bay 1830. S p Bot. mag. 3104 : a nas Guposites lanceolate, green, serrate leaves, and its blue blossoms are funnel-shaped, and an inch in length, PENSTE*MON pulchéllus. It was asserted in the Botanical Register, t. 1309., that seeds of the rare pentstemons cannot be raised in heat. Part of the remark is in these words: —“ It is indispensable that theseeds should be sown in a cold frame, or all endeavour to raise them will prove fruitless.’’ Mr. Maund, in figuring P. pulchéllus, remarks, that, to prove or disprove this assertion, he sowed seeds in a pot, and placed them “‘in a rather warm hotbed,” where many seeds vegetated freely; and the plants so raised flowered well in the autumn. [Sowing them in a cold frame is, notwithstanding, doubt- less preferable, as being more congenial to the natural mode. In natural dissemination, seeds are sown as soon:as ripe; tn gardening, they are often kept out of the soil until their vital energy is considerably weakened, and then artificial stimuli may be necessary to rouse it into action. ] Notices of new and enteresting Plants. Qh CCXIIL Solanee § with a capsular Pericarp. 1714. SALPIGLO‘SSIS. : : integrifdlia Hook. entire-leaved O \_Jor 1 jl Ro.P Uraguay 1831. S lt Bot. mag, 3113 Its corollas are broadly funnel-shaped, the tube dark bluish purple, the lobes of the border of a rich crimson purple; handsome, and very distinct from the previously cultivated Salpiglisses. Dr, Hooker possesses another new species, which he denominates S. linearis. ; linearis Hook. linear-leaved © s_Jor 1 jl .. Uraguay 1831. S lt Bot 3113 _ On p. 47. we have presented a remark from Dr. Graham on the sportiveness of the Soe in the Report of the Stirling Horticultural Society, p. 124., mention will be found of four hybrid Sal- piglésses that were exhibited from the garden at Callander Park. *490a.? NIEREMBE/RG/A Kth. Nierem. (J. #. Nieremberg, author of a History of Nature.) 5.1 linariefolia Grah. Toadflax-lvd © ? \_] el zl Wsh Uraguay 1830. S p? Bot. mag. 3108 _An elegant slender plant, expected to thrive in our open gardens in summer, with stems 6 to 8in high, leaves narrowly linear and pubescent, and very singular blossoms. The latter have an extremely stender tube, an inch in length, surmounted by a salver-shaped broadly-spread berder, 5-lobed, white. streaked with purple, having a yellow eye where it is inserted on the tube. From the sides of the Uraguay, near Buenos Ayres. Flowered in July, 1831. Three other species are known, N, repens growing in Peru; N..angustifdlia, in Mexico; N. pubéscens, on Monte Video. ‘ : Dr. Hooker publishes this plant as N. gracilis, but makes no allusion to a species described in minute detail by his friend, Professor Graham, in Jameson’s Journal, 1831, p.378., under the name of N lmariefdlia. Mr. D. Don has not a doubt that both writers have the same plant in view; so, as Pro- fessor Graham’s name was first published, it is here adopted. athe _In this erder the prettiest plant observed in blossom is Brunsfélsia unifldra (Franciscea Hopedna of exploded nomenclature), and this at Messrs. Young’s (Jan. 20.), when beautiful it was, its recently opened tubular corols being exquisitely fragrant, and their comparatively wide-spread orbicular border of a snow white, or appearing to be so, from the advantageous contrast of the’recent flowers with the older ones of a deep lilac hue displayed beside them. The plant was growing in a propagating house in a bed of soil partly loamy, into which its branches were inlaid, and in this position were blooming. In the Kensington Gardens conservatory (which includes a multitude of species, especially of old ones), So- lanum Pseudecapsicum (the Capsicum Amdmum Plinié of the Parisians) was beautiful just after Christ- mas, from the elegant contrast of its glossy bright-hued berries, closely resembling miniature oranges with the dark green foliage of the neighbouring plants, ha CCXX, Verbenicee. 1738. LANTA‘NA 15565 nivea 2 mutabilis Hook. changeable-hwed# {Jor 5 my.jn Y.Ro ..... «» C Ip Bot. mag, 3110 Has the habit of L. nivea ; butinstead of heads of elegant flowers of a snowy white colour, as in that kind, those of this variety (mutabilis) are “‘ at first yellow with an orange eye, then becoming rose-coloured with an orange eye, finally entirely rose-coloured: ” the blossoms are produced in May and June, and continue for a considerable length of time. A very Gesirable plant. i The Gardoquia origandides of Reichenbach is a species of Lantana. (Bentham.) 1749. VERBEXNA. 15631a vendsaGill & Hook. strong-veined ye :Ajor 22 su Ro 8Bu.Ayres 1830. S s.1 Bot. mag. 3127 “* A very handsome species, in many respects allied to VY. bonariénsis, differing in its much shorter spikes, and vastly larger flowers, which are of a bright purple [rosy] colour.” Lippia dulcis whose leaves are sweeter than sugar, of which property the specific name is expressive, at Young’s, was going out of flower; but this mention of it enables me-to impart a ray of systematic knowledge communicated by Mr. Penny: the Lantana lavandulefodlia of Loddiges’s Bot. Cab. 1573. is Lippia dilcis of Loudon’s Hort, Brit. p 484. CCXXI Labiite § Nepétee. *1682a. GARDOQUIT'4 &. & P Garpoguia. (D. Diego Gardoqui, a noble Spaniard.) Labidte [ Oct. 1831. p. 377 Gilliészz7 Grah. Gillies’s 4 y-J... 8 ooo) VLE Chile 1828. S ... Jameson’s jour. discolor Kth. two-colovred [7]... ...apjl P Caraceas 1827. S ... Sw hk. brit.2. 409 G. origandides of Reichenbach in Sprengel’s Addenda, and therefore also of Szuzet’s Hozt. Brit. ed. 2. p. 409., is according to Bentham in Bot. Reg. 1300., a species of Lantana. 1693. SCUTELLA‘RIA. 152840 variegata Hort. variegated-fid ye A pr # au P.y Switzerl. ... D pl Bot. reg. 1460 Scutellaria variegata Hort. Mr. Lindley figures this pretty plant as the S. alpina of Linnzus: it looks. very unlike, indeed, the plant of Linneus; wherefore the name variegata, applied by the nurserymen, is here retained. In this order, the most interesting plants in flower since the 15th are Pogostémon plectranthGides ? and Plectranthus carndsus. The Pogostémon is in a stove at Chelsea, and is presumed to be plectran- théides. Its corols are small and of a grey blue, so unshowy; but its filaments are, as the word Pogosttmon implies, bearded with hairs,in the manner, but more sparingly, of the filaments of Trades- cAntia virginica, buf. seem not articulated in the same manner of matchless elegance. The herbage of P. plectranthéides has an aromatic odour. Plectranthus carndsus is at Young’s: its flowers also are small, grey blue, and unshowy ; but this defect, if defect it he, is compensated by the odour of the fleshy, rigid, pubescent leaves ; which, on contact, supply an odour more grateful than describable, and assimi- lating to that of O’cymum gratissimum. *76a. AUDIBE/RTIA Benth. AvpiperTia. (M. Audébert, of Tarascon, nurseryman.) 2.1. Ladiite. incina Benth. hoary w cu 12 jls Pa.B Colombia 1827. S co Bot. reg. 1469 Salvia carndsa Herb, Doug. Differs from Silvia in habit, form of corolla, and in its anthers; the connectivums of which are not 7 ; Were 92 Notices of new and interesting Plants. produced below the point of insertion; but merely articulated on the filament. Mr. Bentham finds the genus he had in Bot. Reg. t. 1282. denominated Audibertéa untenable, so transfers the name to the present plant. a Suscuass II. Plants with Endogenous Growth and Monocotyledonous Seed. CCXXXVIII. Amaryllidex. 975. HABRA/NTHUS. pallidus B. C. pale-flowered @ .Ajor 1 jn Pk Valparaiso 1830. O r.m Bot. cab. 1760 Among the bulbs were some with flowers ranging between white and red, from which we may infer * that H. pallidus is a cultivated plant, Bot. cad. 970. PHYCE’LLA. 8006a glauca B. C. glaucous-vd % .Ajor 1 jn R Valparaiso 1824, O lp Bot. cab. 1745 P. ignea var. glatica Bot. mag. 2687. 8006 ignea 2 ptilchra D. Don _ pretty ¥ Alor 12 o R Valparaiso... O r.m Sw.fl.gar.2.s.121 Ornamental in the umbel of pendulous, red, tubular blossoms. Figured from the Chelsea Botanic Garden, and some varieties near the above are at Knight’s Exotic Nursery. 965, CYRTA/NTHUS. 7868a carneus Lindl. flesh-coloured § :AJjor 1 au F C.G.H. .. O r.m Bot. reg. 1462 The crown of long, pendulous, flesh-coloured, tubular corols is very ornamental, 938. CALOSTE’/MMA. Cunninghami Ait. Cunningham’s¥ :Alor 1 sp W N. Holl. 1826. O s.1 t ‘979. ALSTROIME‘RIA. 28162a Neillé Gill. Neill’s %ttlel 2 jn Pa,Ro Mendoza 1827. O lp Bot. mag. 3105 A very pretty species, near A.’pallida, named after the celebrated Patrick Neill, Esq., of Canonmills, near Edinburgh, where and with whom it bloomed in the green-house, in June, 1831. Native of both sides of the Cordillera of the Andes, between Chile and Mendoza. Stem upright, bearing highly glau- cous leaves, and an umbel of from six to eight flowers of a pale rose colour. Dr. Graham furnishes the description of this species, and remarks : —“* Mr. Neill’s very interesting garden has recently sus- tained a great loss in the removal of the gardener, Alexander Scott, whose professional talent and patient industry have been transferred to a situation of more extensive usefulness. He has been appointed foreman to Mr. Knight’s Exotic Nursery, Chelsea ; a situation for which he is especially fitted by his quiet unassuming manners and uniformly steady conduct.” : Upwards of a hundred beautiful, and some of them splendid, and_many of them newly originated, hybrid kinds of AmarYllis, are now (Jan. 17.) blooming at Colvill’s. Of A. adlica platypétala two most vigorous specimens have blossomed : one is still flowering ; the other is past, and exhibits finely swollen germens, which have been artificially impregnated with pollen of A. reticulata : from the union of these two fine kinds, hybrids of high interest are anticipated. Crinum amabile here exhibits the last flowers of an extremely fine umbel; and C. australe is in blossom. Rather many seedlings of alstroemerias, | from seeds purchased of Mr.Cumming, are already above ground. Forced specimens of a double-flowered polyanth-narcissus are finely in blossom: this is possibly the Hermione Cypri v. pléna of Haworth’s excellent Narcissinedrum Monographia, CCXXXIX, Iridee. 3281. STREPTANTHE‘RA. > 28007 ciprea Sw¢, copper-cld ¥ Alor 2g jnjl Cop C.G.H. 1825. O pl Sw.fl.gar.2.s.122 “ Stigma three-cleft, the segments broadly dilated at the ends, deeply channeled on the upper side, having the appearance of two lobes; the edges beautifully fringed, so as to give it, with its hollow sur- fee ne crack resemblance of a leaf of Dione*a muscipula: has it not the same uses ?”? Drawn from Mr. Colvill’s. 128. GLADIOLUS. : 11875? natalénsis Reinwardt Natal Alspl 4 jlau Sy Natal ‘1830. O p.l Bot. cab. 1756 ‘ This bore the winter perfectly well out of doors, in front of our stove, in sandy peat soil, and appears to increase itself freely by offsets. (Loddiges’s Bot. Cab.) ‘This new and very splendid species has been also recently published in the Botanical Register, 1442., but under the abrogated name of G. psittacinus ; the editor having perhaps overlooked the note at t. 3084. of Bot. Mag., in which Dr. Hooker shows that natalensis is the legitimate name of the species. Stem 3 to 4 ft. high, well furnished with leaves, and ter- minated by a spike, a foot in length, of large blossoms, yellow-spotted, striped, and marginated with scarlet. ‘* The colours are indeed splendid beyond any thing that can be expressed, except by the most elaborate miniature painting.” Published in Bot. Reg. from the nurseries of Mr. Lee of Hammersmith where it blossomed in July last ; and from that of Mr. Miller of Bristol, with whom it blossomed strongly at Heatly the same ume { otted crocuses in frames are showing blossom at Colvill’s ; and in the open air, i 4 h’ interesting little garden, Crocus pasiilus is (Jan. 24.) in blossom. 5 Saati ._ CCXL, Orchidee \ Ophrgdee. 2481. O’RCHIS. ae fuscéscens B.C. drymmg brown *& Ajcu 4 jn Ysh Penneuin 1831. O p.lt Bot. cab, 1 Interesting to the botanist only. It is a native of grassy hills in Pennsylvania anid of Siberia ; heed here this year in June, “‘ kept in a cold frame, and potted in peat and vegetable earth.” (Bot. Cab.) Orchidee \ Vandee. #2530a. PERISTE*RIA Hook. Dove FLoweEr. (Peristera, a dove, which its column resembles.) 20. 1. Orché elata Hook. lofty & (Alor 4 su Ysh.W Panama 1826. D pr Bot. mag, S116 Notices of new and interesting Plants. 23 “‘ Bulb as large as a swan’s egg, bearing green sword-shaped leaves, nearly a yard long and six inches broad. The flower-stem springs from the base of the bulb; is four feet high ; and bears at its extremity a raceme a foot in length of large, yellowish white, almost globose, fleshy flowers, yielding a peculiar fragrance, which somewhat resembles that of the English Nuphar lutea. In Panama, the plant is called El Spirito Santo (the Holy Spirit), and its blossoms show why: the centre of the flower exhibits a column which, with its summit or anther, and the projecting gland of the pollen masses, together with the almost erect wings, bears a striking resemblance to a dove, the emblem of the third person in the Trinity. El Spirito Santo was therefore applied by the same people, and in the same reli- gious feeling, as dictated the naming of the Passion Flower. 3412. CERATOCHILUS. oculatus Lo. C. eyed f&W@Wor 1 jn Y.spot Xalapa 1829. D p.r Bot. cab..1764 The flowers are pendulous, curiously formed, fragrant, and sprinkled over with innumerable spots, most of which are annular. Near the base of the lip are two very large ones, like eyes, which add greatly to the elegance of the flower. 2563. SARC A/NTHUS. guttatus Lind. &(Ajel 1 ap W.V.Ro Dacca 1818. D p.r.w Bot, reg. 1443 Aérides guttatum Ror. MSS. A lovely epiphyte, with a stem a foot or more in length ; depending in its native habitat, the vicinity of Dacca, from the branches of trees; but in the Chiswick Garden “ is cultivated in the stove, in a very hot damp atmosphere, in a pot full of moss, suspended from the roof by a wire, and a little over- shadowed by climbing and other plants:’’ thus treated, it flowers in April. Leaves a foot in length, channeled ; but, when spread flat, an inch broad; of a shining green. Racemes longer than the leaves, drooping, solitary. Flowers numerous, approximate, pretty large; colour, a beautiful mixture of red and white spotted. 2540. ONCI/DIUM. bicornitum Hook. two-horned f&(Wiel 1 jn Y.Br Brazil 1830. D p.r-w Bot. mag. 3109 A very beautiful Brazilian species, whose slender scape, scarcely longer than the leaves, is sur- mounted by a large and dense panicle of showy flowers, their ground colour being deep yellow, which is striped, mottled, and spotted with purple red. O. pumilum. Its blossoms, marked with various colours, are minute, but very numerous, and, when closely inspected, highly pleasing. (Bot. Cab. 1732., Oct. 1831.) *2530a. CORY A’NTHES Hook. HELMET-FLOWER. (Korys, helmet, anthos, flower; shape of appendage to lip.) maculata Hook. spotted-lipped € (AX) spl 12 jn Y.p Demerara 1829. D p.r-w Bot. mag. 3102 The Coryanthes maculata of Hooker is a superb stove orchideous plant, newly introduced from the forests of Demerara, where it grows on the trunks of trees : it blossomed in June, 1831, in the Liverpool Botanic Garden. ‘‘ Bulbs clustered, scape 13 ft. long, pendulous from the weight of the numerous, very large, blossoms ; of these, the petals are of a pale ochraceous yellow colour, the lip and its appendage more inclining to yellow, the latter, which is large and shaped like a helmet, tinged at the margin, and spotted inside with purple.’ Each bulb (or pseudo-bulb Lindl.) is two-leaved. - Dr. Hooker refers to this genus also the Gongdra specidsa Hook. Bot. Mag. 2755., and Gongdra -macrantha Hook. Bot. Miscellany, 80.; but, as to. the name of this genus, Corydnthes, seems to have overlooked its inadmissible nearness to the orchideous genus Corysanthes of Brown: if so, it is a notable instance of an appropriation of the same idea and terms by which to express it, by two men unaware of each other’s intentions: an almost parallel instance obtains in Necker’s euphorbiaceous genus Pedilanthus, which Mr. Haworth had simultaneously or previously in MS. distinguished and denominated Crepidaria; Necker choosing Greek, and Mr. Haworth Latin, to express the slipper-like shape of the involucre: Orchidee §\ Epidéndrea. 2562. BRASAVO*LA. noddsa Lindl. knotty f(_)fra 1 0 Ysh.G Mexico 1828. D pr Bot. reg. 1465 Fills the woods at night with its fragrance ; grows freely in a hot damp stove, among moss, in decayed vegetable matter.”’ Orchidee §\ Malaxidee. 2575. MICRO’STYLIS. ; versicolor Lindl. changeable €?[Ajcu 1 jno O China 1830. D px Bot. cab. 1751 ' 2539. PLEUROTHA’LLIS. Lancedna Lo.C. lLance’s €Wicu 2 au Y.a Surinam 1831. D p.r Bot. cab. 1767 Liparis priochilus B. C ‘In Orchidezx, the following are promising to flower, some of them strongly, in a stove at Colvill’s, under Mr. Riath’s skilful management : — Oncidium altissimum, liridum, and carthaginénse ; Bonatea specidsa, Cypripedium vendstum, Eulophia gracilis, and Pholiddta jamaicénsis. Epidéndrum cochlea- tum is in blossom; and Ne6ttia specidsa shows flowers, and is already beautiful in its conspicuous spike of red and sheathing bracteas. At Young’s, Spiranthes procéra is (Jan. 20.) in blossom. At Malcolm’s (Jan. 10.), in a cold damp green-house, Goodyéra discolor was thriving perfectly ; and its delicate white blossoms, produced in spikes Gin. long, contrasted pleasingly with its dark-hued leaves; beside it stood the G, tessellata with its foliage so elegantly variegated. Late in November last, Cattléya labiata flowered finely with Mr. Campbell at the Comte de Vandes’s. How exquisitely elegant is this species! Cypripedium insigne flowered there also early in December. 4 : On the propagation of the stove Orchidez some remarks occur in the present Number, p. 88., and it will be here in place to'remark the peculiar manner in which some plants of this order are grouped at Colvill’s. A crooked trunk of an oak tree rises from the floor and is fastened to the rafters of the roof, and to this are affixed, with nails, the husks of cocoa-nut shells, so thickly, as completely to hide the oaken trunk: the interstices between the nut-shells are filled with soil and moss, in which the orchi- deous epiphytes are planted. 4 Cc oA, Notices of new and interesting Plants. . Com) CCXLVII. Asphodélee. BULBINE semibarbata, “ The stamens are not bearded in the outer filaments only, but all of them are furnished with a dense tuft of hairs above the middle.” (Bot. Mag. 3129.) Hyacinths forced in pots of soil or water-glasses are now usual in the rooms or windows of those who love flowers (and who does not ?), and can afford to possess and keep them. Tachenaléa pendula and quadricolor are in blossom at Messrs. Young’s, the former very vigorously. A/loé albocincta and Bul- bine latifdlia are in bloom with Mr. Haworth; and so is a species of A’loé at Dennis’s. Dracz‘na ter- minalis, as it is usually called, but which Mr. Riath has an impression has another and more accurate name on the Continent, is blooming in one of Colvill’s stoves : its main beauty, however, is in its bril- liant party-coloured foliage. Leucocéryne (Brodiz*‘a) éxidides is flowering rather finely at Knight’s ; its lilac blossoms are quite ornamental. Forced Van Thol tulips (Tdipa suayéolens) are now (Jan. 24.) in supply with the dealers in forced flowers. CCXLVIII. Gilliesi&te. GILLIE‘S74 graminea. A very curious plant, whose fiower at first sight greatly resembles that of an orchideous plant, and is certainly a most complex and puzzling production: the root is a kind of long bulb. (Bot. Cab. 1755.) : CCLI. Lilidcee. LVLIUM Mértagon. ‘“ The most striking beauty, when frequently presented to the eye, loses its power.of engaging our attention. Were this not the fact, the peculiar elegance of the Lilium Medrtagon would continue an object of admiration to every individual of cultivated mankind. Its stately upright pillar, decked above like an Eastern pagoda, and ornamented below by whorls of uniform foliage, ren- der it a profitable subject of contemplation for the artist, whose taste should be founded on beauty. This quality is never sought for in vain amongst the productions of nature.” (Bot. Gard. 332., Nov. 1831.) 1017. TU“LIPA. 843la Bonarotidna Bert. Bonarota’s @ A or ii ap.my R.Va Italy 1827? O co Sw.fi.gar.2.s.116 The bulbs of this, of 7. strangulata, and other kinds, were received from abroad, by the Apothecaries’ Company, as the bulbs of the medicinal colchicum. 7. Bonarotidna has its stem and foliage pubescent, and its flowers ‘‘ campanulately spreading ; when in bloom, of an exquisite faint scent ; inside, of a vivid brick colour; outside, of a very pale yellow, marked with red.” It is easy of culture. strangulata 560 00 ¢ A or 12 ap nd 600 O co Sw,fi.gar.2.s8.116 CCLIII. Restiacee. 293, ERIOCAU’/LON. decangulare L. ten-angled *= Acu Qijlau W N. Amer. 1826. D bog Bot. mag. 3126 A cross section of the 10 or 12-angled stem of this plant is a very pretty object. The leaves are grass- like, and ** compactly cellular ;”” and I notice the latter for the sake of remarking, that dried specimens of the British E. septangulare, held against the light, are extremely elegant objects, from the beautiful arrangement of cells which the leaves exhibit. In EI. decangulare, the head of flowers is nearly three quarters of an inch in diameter, forming a depressed globe, nearly hemispherical, and woolly. Besides the plants noticed as flowering in the winter season under the orders formally exhibited above, it may be here noticed that in Cruciferae, Cheiranthus mutabilis is interesting in the Chelsea Garden ; in Caly- canthez, Chimonanthus fragrans at Young’s, and wherever kept ; the C. fragrans var. grandifldrus of the Hor- ticultural Society’s Garden has yellower blossoms than the fragrans itself. In Zlicinez, the common holly in large trees, as in Kensington Garden, with its glossy leaves and berries red, is a beautiful ornament of the season ; the varieties, with variegated leaves too, contrasting with the dark green of the yew and other ever- greens, are highly estimable. In Cactew, Epiph¥llum truncatum displays its flowers, of rose and scarlet mingled, from Christmas to the middle of January. In Myrtacez, Leptospérmum baccatum, white; and Cal- listtmon lanceolatus, scarlet, are in bloom at Colvill’s. In Ternstroemzdcee, the camellias are becoming splen- did; the fringed white was highly admirable at Knight’s early in January, and later at Colvill’s: other kinds at both places, especially at Colvill’s, where they seem to be kept at a higher temperature, are very splendid. At Colvill’s a seedling raised there isnow blooming: it is in the style of Gray’s invincible, but, Mr. Riath remarks, is of a deeper colour, and has a larger bud arid blossom. In Thymelte, Daphne oddra, forced, is blooming at Colvill’s; and im the green-house Gnidia levig&ta, simplex, and imbérbis; the last two are, I helieve, fragrant by night. Gnidia pinifdlia is blooming lovelily, with heads of snow-white blossoms, at Young’s. In Rhamnez, PhYlica ericdides at Young’s (this plant has tragrant flowers), and Pomadérris discolor, there also, will blossom in about ten days. In Goodendvie, Lechenatiltéa formdsa is blooming in various places ; and in Euphorbidcee, Xylophyila latifdlia lately, at the Comte de Vandes’s, had the leaflets of its pinnate leaves bedecked with fringing flowers. In Epacridex, at Young’s, are blooming Sprengéléa incarnata ; and Styphélia longifolia, its blossoms tubular and yellow-green. Epacris paluddsa will blossom in a week ; and from Mr. Penny the following systematic fact was learned :—E/pacris diosmefolia of Loddiges’s Botanical Cabinet is EB. obtusifdlia Brown.” In Cinchonidceae, in Colvill’s stove, Burchélléa capénsis displays its tubular scarlet blossoms. In Rutacer, Correa alba specidsa, pulchélla, and virens, are in the middle of January uni. formly blooming, wherever kept, and are most lovely: C. Aiba almost hardy in the open garden at Dennis’s, Boronia pinnata is blooming at Colvill’s; and B, denticulata at Young’s: what beautiful objects beneath the microscope are the filaments of the latter species !_ That curious, and, when bruised, peculiarly scented plant, Zieréa Smithz, is flowering at Young’s. The beautiful Diésma crenata displays its wreaths of blossoms, white, in all collections which contain it. In Passifldree, a variety, known as the dwarf prolific, ;is in flower at Young’s ; and in Pomacex, Raphiélepis indica and rubra are, where kept, in blossom, In Ficiideze, Mesem- bryanthemum atireum and rubricatiie are blooming in a frame at the Chelsea Garden. In Begoniacee, Begonia semperfidrens, white, is flowering at Young’s, and another species, far more beautiful, with rosy blossoms In Oleine, forced lilacs are flowering at Colvill’s ; and in Myoporine, Stenochilus viscd;sus both at Young’s and the Comte de Vandes’s. In Acanthaces, the following have been found in bleom : — Ruéllia anisophY¥lla, of Notices of new and interesting Plants. ee which a second and similar species is said to be passing, nevertheless, at present under the same name: Bar- ltrza flava, whose style and stigma are protruded before the corolla is expanded ; Justicia picta, calycétricha and specidsa ; Eranthemum pulchéllum, Ruéllza brazilla, and Thunbérgza coccinea. - In Byttnerzdcee, the Astrapz‘a Wallichz/, magnificent in its foliage and large depending umbels.of orange and scarlet tubular blossoms, is flowering at the Chelsea Botanic Garden, and more abundantly at Colvill’s, and at the Comte de Vandes’s. In Myrsinex, Ardisia paniculata is flowering at Young’s; A. crenulata is splendid in some stoves, with umbels of glossy bright red berries; and A. pyramidata with its red berries, and A. littoralis with its almost black ones, are looking prettily at Colvill’s. In Bromeléacee, Billbérgia amce‘na has displayed its pleasing violet-tinted flowers, in various collections, through December and the early part of January, but now is past. A scarlet Pitcairnza, perhaps staminea, is in flower at Colvill’s. In Marantacee Canna versicolor has for a month or more been, and still is, flowering in the stove in Chelsea Garden. It has large discolorate leaves, a stem from 8 to 10 ft. high, which ‘produces, from near its summit, successive spikes of showy scarlet flowers. In Commelineg, Aneiléma sinica is in flower at Young’s; where Filices, or ferns, are prettily in fruit. The Flowers of Spring. — These will shortly delight us with their welcome presence, and for them we all feel a deep interest. ‘This is warranted in their earliness and comparative scarcity, and in the countless pleasures of hope to which they excite. On the floral splendour which may be produced from a copious multiplication and contrasted interspersion of the winter aconite, the three kinds of snowdrop (the single, the double, and the plaited), and the numerous kinds of vernal crocus, some remarks have been already offered (Vol. VII. p. 564.). To these will follow the rare but charming snowflake (Leucdjum vérnum), polyanthuses, primroses, violets, anemones, Ficaria vérna, verna pléna, and vérna alba; the gorgeous Adonis vernalis ; the sprightly hepaticas in their varieties of white, blue, and red, and single and double; the Persian iris; and then the fragrant and beautiful narcissus, of which the British gardens boast more than a hundred kinds. In praise of vernal bloom- ing bulbs too much cannot be said; and for their perfectly successful culture but three things are requisite — a soil not over stiff, a site not over bleak, and absolute exemption from disturbance while in a growing state. Thoughts on Flowers. —‘‘ Are not,” asks the author of Atherton, ‘* flowers the stars of earth, and are not stars the flowers of heaven? Flowers are the teachers of gentle thoughts, promoters of kindly emotion. One cannot look closely at the structure of a flower without loving it. They are emblems and manifestations of God’s love to the creation, and they are the means and ministrations of man’s love to his fellow-creatures; for they first awaken in the mind a sense of the beautiful and the good. Light is beautiful and good: but on its undi- vided beauty, and on the glorious intensity of its full strength, man cannot gaze; he can comprehend it best when prismatically separated, and dispersed in the many-coloured beauty of flowers; and thus he reads the elements of beauty, the alphabet of visible gracefulness. The very inutility of flowers is their excellence and great beauty; for, by having a delightfulness in their very form and colour, they lead us to thoughts of gene- rosity and moral beauty detached from, and superior to, all selfishness: so that they are pretty lessons in Nature’s. book of instruction, teaching man that he liveth not by bread or for bread alone, but that he hath another than an animal life”? (A Chapter on Flowers, in the Amadet for 1832.) Seasonable Hints on Floriculture. — Seeds of such flowering plants as have spindle-shaped roots, or require to have attained considerable growth and vigour before they can blossom satisfactorily, should be sown inthe first open weather. The frosts which will occur after they have germinated will destroy a much smaller proportion of the young plants than may be commonly supposed. Hence, the most proper period of sowing seeds of plants of the above description is the autumn, as soon as the seeds are perfectly ripe. Nature teaches us this rule by the healthful and vigorous plants which almost invariably arise from seeds naturally sown. Those, however, who did not sow in autumn will now do well to commit to the soil, with as little delay as possible, seeds of ranun- culaceous plants, as Adonis, larkspurs, ponies, columbines ; of papaveraceous plants, as poppies, Eschscholtzza califérnica, Reemeéria hybrida, glauciums; fumariaceous plants, as Adlimia cirrhdsa, Corydalis glatca ; plants in Compésitz, as Callidpsis bicolor Achb. (Coredpsis tinctdria Nut.) ; scrophularineous plants, as the pentstemons (see the remarks under Pentst@mon pulchellus, above) ; violaceous plants, as the varieties of hearts- ease ; of balsamineous plants, touch-me-not, &c. &c.. Some of these, if sown early, willnot vegetate for'some weeks afterwards ; but let not this discourage the hopeful sower: when they vegetate, they will do so more vigorously, by virtue of a certain preparation which they derive from the soil. The nature of this preparation I am not able to describe ; but the fact of such a preparation taking place is evinced by the satisfactory health and vigour of plants which have sprung from naturally sown seeds, while not rarely the plants from artificially preserved seeds are less healthy and vigorous, and, consequently, less satisfactory. These remarks, however, scarcely at all apply to the tropical annual plants with branched fibrous roots. In these, the rate of growth is so rapid, that the space of our summers is usually sufficient to enable them to return their seeds commonly with increase ; and were the seeds of such plants sown before the soil and climate of Britain are becoming warm, they would not only not be benefited, but even rotted and destroyed. It may not be known to every one, that seeds of the yellow everlasting (Helichrysum bracte?.tum) naturally shed in the autumn, lie unhurt in the soil through the winter, and produce fine plants in the ensuing summer. As this plant is from New Holland, it suggests that most New Holland annuals may endure autumnal sowing with us. 26 - General Notices. Art. II. General Notices. Witty’s Improved Furnace. — When we noticed this furnace, in a for- mer Number, we were not aware of the extent of the improvement which it is calculated to effect; the inventor having, in a private letter which accompanied his communication, chiefly insisted on its power of burning waste coal. We have since seen some printed remarks, accompanied by testimonials, which show that the most important advantage of Witty’s fur- nace is the burning of the smoke, by which a saving of from 20 to 30 per cent of fuel is obtained; and the atmosphere in the neighbourhood of the furnace is not polluted with smoke. It also appears that rather less attend- ance is required than with a common furnace, whether for hot-houses, steam-engines, or dwelling-houses. The first principle of excellence in the construction of this improved furnace is the way in which it is supplied with fuel. By the common mode, the moment the door of the furnace is opened, a rush of cold air sweeps through the flues, or under the boiler, carrying off much heat. Cold, and perhaps moist, coal is then thrown on the very centre of the fire, which not only reduces the heat, but occasions a quantity of dense smoke to be emit- ted from the chimney; and this smoke, when once formed, cannot be burned except at a temperature (3000° Fahrenheit) that will melt iron. This temperature would, of course, require an amazing expense of fuel. The mixture of about one twelfth of atmospheric air with carburetted hydrogen, of which smoke of coal is chiefly composed, produces com- bustion at a high temperature. By throwing on a fire unprepared coal, not only this inflammable gas (carburetted hydrogen) is generated, but also nitrogen, carbonic acid gas, and other non-inflammable gases ; and it has been proved, that when smoke contains one sixth part of nitrogen, or one sixth of carbonic acid gas, it will not inflame. Hence the difficulty of consuming smoke. In order to overcome this difficulty, Mr. Witty divides the con- sumption of coal into two distinct processes : viz. carbonisation, by which the coals are thoroughly dried, and freed from their watery and gaseous matter; and combustion, in which the carbonised coal, or coke, is consumed along with the watery and gaseous matter which is distilled from that portion of coal which is undergoing carbonisation. By these two processes, the maxi- mum of heat is obtained from any given quantity of fuel; and this without one particle of smoke. By Mr. Witty’s plan, the atmospheric air is no- where admitted but through the coke fire, and this inflames all the gaseous matter, as it is evolved from the coal undergoing distillation. It is important here to observe, that, as a very high temperature is essentially necessary for the consumption of smoke, that object can never be effected under a boiler in which water is not raised much beyond the boiling point. Now, the great superiority of Mr. Witty’s plan is, that the smoke is consumed before the flame and the heat come in contact with the boiler. We are the more anxious to direct attention to this, because, in heating by hot water, it will be found necessary to place the boiler not immediately over the fuel, but rather over the commence- ment of the flue; or, at whatever may be the point where all the gaseous matters are consumed. Jt will be seen in our advertising sheet that this furnace has been erected in several gardens, and that it has given the highest satisfaction. Mr. Miller of the Bristol Nursery has had two fur- naces put up to his steam boilers, which, he says, effectually consume the smoke, and produce a greater quantity of heat with less fuel. Mr. R. Mil- ler, the very intelligent gardener at Alton Towers, who has had the ma- nagement of several of the hot-houses and conservatories there, strongly recommends it as being preferable to any other furnace that he has seen, producing a great heat generally diffused, with less coal and no smoke. There is one of Witty’s furnaces erected at Lee’s Nursery, Hammer- General Notices. 27 smith, and another at Henderson’s in the Edgware Road, both of which we have examined; and we must say, that we were gratified far beyond ex- pectation at the simplicity of the apparatus, and the complete manner in which it burned the smoke. At Mr. Lee’s, the furnace is applied to flues which never before had a good draught, but now draw as well as the best hot-house flues. At Mr. Henderson’s, one furnace has supplied the place of three. To convince some gentlemen present that the smoke was effec- tually burned, Mr. Chanter (the present proprietor of the patent) had two top tiles taken off the flue in Mr. Henderson’s pine-stove, when, instead of smoke, nothing but a warm moist vapour was felt, so totally without smell, that it might have been admitted to fill the atmosphere of the house with- out any injury to the plants.* These advantages, taken together with a saving of 30 per cent in fuel (clearly proved by other experiments), leave no doubt in our minds that this furnace will soon be substituted for every other in hot-houses, whe- ther these may be heated by hot water, steam, or common flues. . The improvement will not serve as a substitute for the mode of heating by hot water; but it will lessen the expense of that mode, by the saving of fuel and of labour in attendance. We look upon the burning of the smoke as an immense advantage; whether we regard the plants in gardens where there are numerous hot- houses, or the atmosphere of towns, in coal countries, all over the world. M. d’Arcet of the French mint, who lately resided some weeks in London, found by prepared paper tests, which he pinned every morning to his hat before he went out, that the atmosphere of the metropolis contained a considerable proportion of sulphuric acid, undoubtedly diffused in it by the coal smoke. By the use of Witty’s furnace, both in public and private establishments, in all cases in which close fires are or can be employed, such as in boiling water, or in heating ovens, stoves, or hot plates for French cooking, &c. &c., a small proportion of this sulphuric acid would be got rid of, and turned to account as fuel. As these furnaces admit of making more coal into coke than it is necessary to use in them, every family that had one for any close fire might, while that fire was at work, coke as much more coal as would serve for burning in all the open fires in the house. It is easy to see that, in this way, coal smoke might be got rid of altogether, both in town and country. Here would be an end at once to climbing boys and smoky chimneys. Wherever a family had occasion to use constantly one of Witty’s furnaces, they might easily coke in it as much coal as would supply half a dozen open fires. Every country gentle- man that has hot-houses will be henceforth inexcusable, as a man of taste, if a particle of smoke be seen issuing either from his gardens or his house. In Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool, there need not, in future, be the slightest difficulty in getting rid of smoke entirely. (See Vol. VII. p. 524.) In short, it only wants time and a little authority from the legislature, to banish coal smoke entirely from every part of the British empire, and to leave the architecture of our towns as pure as that of the towns on the Continent. The great beauty of all this is, that it will be attended by a great saving both to individuals and to the public, besides contributing to health, comfort, and humanity. Were this not the case, we should not for a moment contemplate the idea of legislative interference. — Cond. A great Improvement in the Construction of Boilers of every Description has just been made by Mr. Perkins, the celebrated engineer; and, as it is * Mr. Tomalin, one of the gentlemen present, whom we know to be a good practical chemist, writes thus : —“ On the two tiles being removed, 1 carefully examined it: not the least odour was at all perceptible, and nothing found but a copious and perfectly sweet vapour or steam, quite free from bitumen or smoke, and of an excessively high temperature.” 23: General Notices. particularly applicable to the heating of hot-houses by hot water, we shali shortly notice it. Suppose we have a common boiler, such as used in common wash-houses, and which Mr. Kewley uses in the siphon mode of circulating hot water; then place another boiler within it, of such a size as to leave only a few inches between the inner boiler and the outer boiler all round, and support it in this position by stays. (fig. 1.) Let this inner boiler have a hole in tts bottom, about one third 1 —=7 of its diameter, and let its rim be 2 in. below the aS level of the water to be heated. These arrange- \ Nes ments beimg made, and the heat applied below, a circulation instantly takes place, and continues ; the water coming into contact with the heated ee = bottom and sides of the outer boilers, rising ra- pidly to the surface, and descending through the inner boiler, which thus necessarily contains the coldest portion of the | liquid. One great advantage of this construction is, that the bottom of the outer boiler, having its heat constantly carried off by the liquid, is not liable to burn out. For the siphon and level modes of circulating water in hot- houses, this boiler promises to be a great improvement. It is our inten- tion to try a boiler of this sert over Witty’s furnace. — Cond. An improved Boiler for heating by hot Water.— Sir, Heating by hot water is that branch of engineering which I profess more particularly, and in which [have proved most successful ; having always acted upon the late Mr. Tredgold’s system, which I perhaps understand the better from having been Mr. Tredgold’s principal clerk up to the last hour of his life; and Tam the person who made out the origina! drawings (under Mr. Tredgold’s directions) for his paper in the Transactions of the Horticultural Society, which was copied in your Magazine. (Vol. VII. p. 179.) Having had every opportunity of proving by the many apparatus which I have had the honour to execute, as far as theory and design extend, that such calculations as respect the surface of pipe are, beyond a doubt, correct, still I think that the calculation for the size of the boiler is not sufficiently clear; for a furnace may be so constructed, that although a given quantity of fuel may be consumed in a given time, yet that a great portion of the heat from that fuel may escape though the flue, without being of service to the boiler. The plan which I have for some time past adopted is, to vary the length of the boiler with the surface of pipe required ; invariably making use of along rectangular boiler in preference to a square or circular boiler, as it Longitudinal section of boiler and furnace. Transverse section, is'a well known fact that the bottom surface is far superior to the side of a boiler in absorbing heat; consequently, the longer the heat is retained General Notices. oy 29 on the bottom of the boiler, the more effective it will be. Under such impressions, I have turned my particular attention to that form of boiler which is most likely to answer the required end; and I have lately had them constructed to the patterns shown in jigs. 2, 3, 4, and 5. bee “ General plan of bars and flue; the dotted line 6 is the supposed position of the lower pipe; the dotted line c is'a pipe for drawing off the water from the boiler and pipe. IA TN Elevation of furnace. culation is not suitable for a hot-water apparatus. For instance, the proprietor would sometimes burn coal, sometimes coke or wood, or perhaps only cinders ; ~ therefore, the more econo- mical the furnace is con- structed for such purposes, the better. The dip shown at the end of the boiler ( jig. 2. a) has a tendency - to prevent the flame from passing so rapidly over the bottom as it would do on a straight bottom. The upper part of the fiue passing round the boiler, | is entirely covered by the upper part of the boiler; and I always bear in mind to let the lower pipe enter” the boiler where it is least exposed to heat. I am, Sir, &c.— D. D. Neeve. 6. Wyndham Street, Bryan- stone Square, Sept. 1831. — 30 General Notices. Steam Carriages, it appears by the report of the select committee of parliament, can be propelled on common roads at an average rate of ten miles per hour ; ascending and descending hills of considerable inclination with facility and ease, and a great saving of expense. How great, then, would be the advantages of equalising, or nearly so, the inclination of all slopes!’ We have shown (Morning Chronicle, Dec. 31.) that this equalis- ation of slope, even with the aid of horses alone, would not only nearly equalise the value of territorial property, and all its various products, but that it might go far to equalise the fertility of soils, by the facilities which it would give to the transport of earths which were superfluous in one district, to others in which they were deficient. The practicability and advantages of using steam carriages on common roads adds greatly to the value of our own suggestion. — Cond. A regulating Thermometer, for effecting the same objects as Mr. Kewley’s Automaton Gardener (Encyclopedia of Gardening, 2d edit. § 1490.) has lately been invented by Mr. J. Lindley (not the Professor), and exhibited in the library of the London Horticultural Society. From a general view of the exterior of this machine, it does not appear to us any thing like so perfect as that of Mr. Kewley; it will also cost more, and, instead of regulating the temperature to a quarter of a degree, like the automaton gardener, it does not operate till a change has taken place of more than 15°. The invention, however, has merit; and we are exceedingly glad to see it brought forward, because we trust it will stimulate Mr. Kewley to put his simple and most ingenious engine in the course of manufacture for public sale. We believe that, for five guineas, Mr. Kewley can produce an instru- ment not at all liable to go out of repair, which would open and shut the windows of the largest church, public room, or hot-house, so as to regulate the air within to any required temperature. We have felt confident, since we saw this machine, that the business of forcing and exotic culture in gardens, and of ventilating and regulating the temperature of hospitals, crowded theatres, and other large or now badly ventilated places, might be greatly simplified and economised by Mr. Kewley’s mvention. When we take in connexion with this the present facilities of heating hot-houses of every kind; and not only of heating them, but of preserving heat in reserve by large cisterns of hot water, we feel convinced that the whole business of forcing, or at all events of keeping hot-house and green-house plants through the winter, might go on for days together with perfect safety, without the attendance of a gardener, or of any person whatever. It is evident that these improvements will also tend to render the use of hot- houses more and more general; so that, if the taxes on glass were taken off, we should not have a farm-house or a tradesman’s cottage without its green-house or grapery. A self-acting Apparatus for regulating Temperature has lately been in- vented by Dr. Ure, the scientific author of the Dictionary of Chemistry. The principle of the instrument is the unequal expansion of different metals by heat. The Doctor proposes its employment to regulate the safety- valves of steam boilers; but there can be no doubt that such machinery might be added to it as would fit it for opening the windows of hot-houses, churches, or dwelling-houses, and opening or shutting the dampers of chimneys, or diminishing or increasing the draught of fireplaces. The de- tails of construction will be found in the Repertory of Patent Inventions for December 1831, vol. xii. p. 34.5.— Cond. An Instrument for laying off or transferring Angles, in laying out Flower- Gardens, or performing other Operations in Landscape-Gardening or in Garden Architecture. — Sir, Herewith you will receive a drawing (jig. 6.) of the different parts of an instrument for laying off or transferring angles, which, perhaps, you will think worth publishing for the benefit of your General Notices. 1 S's) practical readers. JI invented this instrument (if it may be dignified with the name of an invention) more than two years ago, since which time I iss) i € | fa BNA! = h.! | ae il SS Ht ib A i 32 General Notices. have found it of very great service; being more quickly applied, and, 1 believe, more correct than the protractor ; especially if the person using the latter should be not very particular in setting off the centre line, and the degree of the angle which may be required. My instrument is made very neatly by Mr. Cook of Crown Court, Soho, from a model of my own con- struction. J%g. 7. a, the instrument, the longest side 2 ft. long; 6, the edge of the instrument; c, the short leg, removed from the long leg; d, the edge of the short leg; e, part of the long leg, showing the quadrant. 9 Fig. 7. a diagram showing the mode of using the instrument. Supposing it were required to draw an angle of 45° from the point f, on the line g 4; place the short leg parallel with the line, so that the long leg touches the given point, then draw the lineifi If you require a perfect triangle, turn the instrument over, and draw a line along its side, and the triangle will be com- pleted; each side of the instrument being alike in length, and perfectly flat. — D. D. Neeve. 6. Wyndham Street, Bryanstone Square, Aug. 14, 1831. An improved Numbering-Stick on the Notch Principle. — Sir, If you think, with me, that my notch ntimbering-stick is su- perior to any thing of the kind now in general use, you will not hesitate to make it, through the medium of your Magazine, more generally useful: It is equally as simple and comprehensive as Seton’s, and the signs used are not so apt to be con- founded with each other. I have adopted three new signs, the 2, 3, and 4; from which, with the 1 and 5 in common use, I make all the others thus (jig. 8.):— yi notch added to 1, on the left side, at the top, makes 2; at the bottom, on the right side, 3; and at top and bottom, 4. The 1 added to 5, and connected at the top, makes 6; and in like manner, as the notch is added to 1 to make 2, 3, and 4, so is it added to the 5 to make 7, 8, and 9.—C. LZ. B. Sept. 3. 1831. The above is certainly a great improve- ment on Seton’s mode, because there is less new to learn in it, and consequently it will be more easily remembered. The great objections to all partially known signs are, their liability to be forgotten by those who use them, when they have been a very short time out of practice, and the difficulty of setting a stranger to work in a garden where such numbers are used. A nurseryman who would use Seton’s mode of numbering for his fruit. trees, must either attend to every thing connected with those numbers himself, or be dependent on one or more incli- General Notices. 33 viduals, who might suddenly leave him, or fall into ill health. For this reason we have often thought that the best notch mode for general use would be one in which the Roman numerals are employed, using the com- mon notch for 10, as now generally done; imitating the letter L for 50, C for 100, D (or delta) for 500, and M for 1000. (jig. 9.) It is true, a good deal more cutting is required by this mode, than by either Seton’s or the improved mode of C. L. D.; but the simplicity and universality of this old or Roman mode, as it may be called, will in our opinion more than compensate for that disadvantage. — Cond. Brick Tales. — We, in a former Number (Vol. VI. p. 310.), ex- pressed our intention of having some brick tallies made by Mr. Peake of Tunstall, and Mr. Allardyce of Clay Hills, near Aberdeen; and both these gentlemen have accordingly sent us specimens. Those of Mr. Peake, from our sketches (fig. 10.), are of terro-metallic earth, as hard almost as cast-iron; and they must be more durable than any other description of earthen manufacture, since they are to a great extent vitri- fied, and yet not only hard but tough. Our error in making the sketches for these tallies consisted in not giving them a beveled end; but this could be remedied in future. Mr. Allardyce has sent us a brick earth tally of his own invention (jig. 11.), which, having a beveled face, appears to us to 12 Z \ i. i be a near approach to perfection in that particular; but we think it ought to be longer, perhaps 12 or 13 in. long, to keep the glass which covers the name from being dirtied by the splashing up of the earth during heavy rains. This tally, though not made of so durable a material as that of Mr. Peake, is yet far harder than the hardest clinker bricks, and, not Vou. VIII, — No, 36. D 34 General Notices. being brittle, must last a very great length of time. Were it not for the greater quantity of elay required, we should prefer the tallies broader at bottom than at top; because they would then be more certain of standing upright, and would sink more slowly into the earth. It was thought that a deviation from the shape of the common brick would procure an exemp- tion from the excise duty ; but Mr. Allardyce found this not to be the ease. A tally a foot high, formed in the upper part like that of Mr. Allardyce, ‘with nearly straight sides, but spreading out a little at the base, made of Mr. Peake’s terro-metallic earth (fig. 12.), would, we think, approach very near perfection ; and would be particularly useful in an arboretum, where, ‘as at Syon, for example, the trees were allowed to attain their full age and growth. — Cond. Budding’s Machine for cropping or shearing the vegetable Surface of Lawns, Grass-plots, §c. — A technical description of this machine is given in the Repertory of Patent Inventions, vol. x. p. 327., accompanied by an Oh: aif) xe NNN TTT aN elevation of the left side (fig. 13.), and a ground-plan (jig. 14.). The machine being pushed forward, the hollow cylinder or cast-iron roller (a) is put in motion, and also the smaller cylinder or gage-roller (6), the pur- pose of which is, to regulate the height of the rectangular steel plate (c). The operation of shearing is performed by from four to eight spiral cutters (d), which revolve on a horizontal axis. In the operation of pushing forward the machine, the cylinder (a) rolls upon the ground like the wheel of a wheelbarrow ; and, by the wheels and pinions connected with it, causes the revolving cutters (d) to act rapidly, by their smooth outer edges, against the edge of the fixed rectangular steel plate (c),80 as to crop or shear the grass or vegetable surface. The smaller cylinder (4) serves effectually to regulate the height, and to insure the steadiness of the rectangular fixed cutter (c), against which the revolving cutters act. To keep the smaller roller (4) sufficiently free from any adhering substances there is a horizontal box (e), which serves as an axis for a thin iron scraper, which is curved so as to form a portion of a cylinder, having its lower edge bearing on the surface of the roller. : The speed with which the machine is pushed forward when at work is General Notices. 35 not material, because the number of cuts will always be in the same ratio with the space rolled over by the roller or larger cylmder (a). The revolv- ing parts are here driven by wheels and pinions, but endless lines or bands may be employed instead of teeth. “ It is advisable,” the patentee ob- = a TI ommin PROTO Tes serves, “ to employ the machine when the grass or vegetable surface is dry ; and when high grass is to be cut, it is best to shear it twice over;” for which purpose, there is a simple contrivance for raising, or lowering, and adjusting the cutting parts of the machine. “ Grass growing in the shade, ‘and too weak to stand against a scythe to be cut, may be cut by this ma- aa ZS 4 SU iu} chine as closely as required; and the eye will never be offended by those circular scars, inequalities, and bare places so commonly made by the best mowers with the scythe, and which continue visible for several days.” “Country gentlemen,” he adds, “ may find, in using my machine them- selves, an amusing, useful, and healthy exercise.” In the specification of the patent, it was unnecessary to notice that all the grass cut off may be collected in a box (fig. 15.); but this we con sider a valuable addition, as saving sweeping, and as completing the oper- D2 Os 6 General Notices. ation of mowing as it proceeds; so that the operator may leave off at any moment, and at the same time leave what he has done perfectly neat and finished. The machine is easily rolled from one part to another without cutting, by merely lowering the handles, so as to lift the gage-roller from the ground; the machine maybe then pushed forward or drawn backward, the operator stooping a little, without any other effect being produced than that of a common roller. f Manner of keeping the Machine in order. Occasionally apply sweet oil to the pivots or ends of the axes, and along the straight edge of the rect- angular blade. When the revolving cutters require sharpening, oil the edges, and shake a little flour of emery on them; then screw the iron handle into the rim of the toothed wheel which is outside of the frame, and turn it backwards for some time. Lastly, wipe the blades quite clean from the emery, and set the adjusting screws. i Should any part of the machine be broken by accident, a new part may be had from the manufacturer, J. Ferrabee, Phoenix Foundery, near Stroud (see advertising sheet), to fit into its place exactly, thus enabling almost any person to repair the machine. i Wehave before (Vol. VII. p. 611.) expressed, and now repeat, our satisfac- tion at the circumstance of this machine being calculated to improve the grass lawns of warm countries, from its “ cutting grass or other herbage too weak to stand against a scythe.” This will insure the machine a good reception on the Continent and in America; and it will probably enable the more wealthy cultivators of the latter country, and of Australia, soon to indulge in a garden luxury ; which, if they had it to procure by manual labour, would probably long remain beyond their reach. We have elsewhere (Vol. VII. p- 692.) mentioned that we have seen it at work in the Zoological Gar- dens, Regent’s Park. Mr. Merrick of Cirencester writes :— “ I have had one of Budding’s machines in use, when the grass required it, all this year, and am highly pleased with it. The narrow machine is best for a gentle- man who wishes to use it himself, and also for grass borders; but the wide ones are preferable for workmen who have much to cut.” — A. Merrick. Cirencester, Sept. 17. 1831. French Mole Trap. — Moles are, perhaps, most troublesome from Mi- chaelmas to Lady-day. The common wooden trap operating by a spring- bow which is disen- gaged by the mole’s burrowing, and then catches and kills the mole by constric- tion, is a very good one; but the cast- iron trap, on the principle of a for- ceps, closed by a spring, as soon as the mole displaces the bridge by which the trap’s jaws are distended, is, per- haps, better. We have, however, to submit another to consideration (jig. 16.), which we brought from France in 1829, and which consists of two sec- General Notices. af 37 tions of a hollow cone (a 4), with a spring within (c); which being set free by the mole’s entering and pushing forward the plate (d), the spring c raises the valvular stopper (e), which prevents the retreat of the mole. The ring of withy (f), which might be of iron, is for keeping the sections of the cone united when the trap is set; and, of course, it is slipped off every time a mole is taken out. Mr. Murray, of the botanic garden Glasgow, has rightly suggested that it would be an improvement to have traps of this kind made in pairs, one at each end of the same piece of wood, but still to keep them distinct in the middle; so that, let the mole encounter either end, it may have an opportunity of entering. — Cond. An Annular Pan, as a defence against all such Insects and Vermin as either never, or at least very sel- dom, fly, has been sent us by Mr. Allardyce. It consists of an an- nular pan (fig. 17.), which is to be filled with water, and so placed as to have the plant to be protected in its centre, whether in the open ground or inapot. This defence will, no doubt, be very effectual against woodlice and slugs; but it will be a very imperfect one against earwigs, as those insects are now generally known to fly, and more es- pecially inthenight-time. (See/ag. Nat. Hist., vol. iv. p. 436.)—Cond. Gauntlets for Lady Gardeners. — Sir, The extensive range taken by the varied contents of your Magazine, and, above all, the kindly interest felt by yourself in every thing conducive in the smallest degree to the comfort of others, induces me, without apology, to trouble you with the following communication, trifling though, I fear, it may appear to many of your readers. Perhaps it may seem ridiculous to those whom cuffs of broad- cloth render invincible by such evils, to say, that, having for some years (even from the time that I could first wield a knife for that purpose) been eel \ A) Bs (oes yo spl ZNY) WILE a E> th ) a) BAY & ae Weg Hs UR fla ‘sg y i v in the habit of keeping pruned the rose-bushes of a small garden, I have always experienced much inconvenience from their prickles, which, to say D 3 38 General Notices. nothing of the detriment done to the sleeves of the dress, will frequently insert themselves between the gloves and those sleeves, scratching the wrists, and causing no slight degree of uncomfortableness, and, I may say, of present and after pain. To obviate this long experienced difficulty, it at length entered, I cannot exactly say my own imagination, to conceive, that gloves made after the fashion of gauntlets. would at once protect both wrists and sleeves from injury; and in this idea some members of my family gave a glove-maker instructions in making a pair of stout leather, which appear as if they would well answer the purpose, preventing the intrusion even of the strongest prickles. Believing that many lady gar- deners may have felt the same inconvenience, without, perhaps, having thought of a remedy, I am induced to send you the accompanying little sketch of one (fig. 18.) of the gardener’s gauntlets, and the information that they were made by Mr. T. Joy, No. 12. Mount Street, Lambeth, who will undertake to make them to order of any size and description. Yours, &c.—C. P. Surrey, November 22. 1831. Howden’s Gate-shutter Hinge. (jig. 19.) — Few things are more vex- atious about a gentleman’s premises, or even on a common farm, than to have gates left open by careless people. The following hinge, or contriv- ance for fixing on the lower end of the hanging style of the gate, serves as | an effectual gate-shutter. Being made of cast-iron, it is both cheap and durabie. “ You see it looks like two semicircles, working into each other in the way of tooth and pinion: but they are not semicircles, they are not segments of circles, they are not even the two halves of an ellipsis; as I tried all these before I got it perfect. I made the model of a beech board, 14 in. thick; 1 formed an ellipsis 74 by 6 in.: this I sawed in two, on the line of the longest diameter; the segments I cut into regular teeth, or cogs, seven in the one, and eight in the other, so as to work freely into each other; these I tried and altered, till I got the gate to play to the greatest nicety, and then had sets of castings (fig. 19. a) for iron gates, and ( jig. 19. 6) for wooden gates. The chief alteration from a semi-ellipsis is flattening the centres, so as to give the gate a home or resting-place. A gate thus hung cannot possibly be left open (unless fastened open), any more than the pendulum of a clock can remain stationary any where but perpendicular to the centre of gravity. The best gates in your Hncyclo- pedias, | see, play upon two centres, which is certainly a great improve- ment on the old hook and thimble; but then, they are very hard to open at first, and though the fall gradually diminishes up to the square or point where the gate, when open, makes a right angle with the line of the gate when shut, yet, if opened any wider, the fall is reversed, and back it goes with a bang, straining itself all to pieces; whereas my gate, playing upon something like two quadrants, is most easily opened at first, the pressure eradually increasing, not only up to the square, or right angle, but 20° beyond it, both ways. — John Howden. April 30. 1830. On the Advantages of M‘Phails Pils for growing early Cucumbers. — Sir, ‘The season haying approached when those who desire early cucumbers are 19 Ete a General Notices. 39 preparing for them, perhaps you will allow me to say a few words by way of recommending M‘Phail’s pits. I have often heard gardeners of con- siderable experience say they preferred dung beds, and have, in conse« quence, been undetermined which plan to adopt. I am, however, fully satisfied that cucumbers may be grown in perfection im pits, and with much greater safety than in beds, in early forcmg. Having had an opportunity last year of seeing some pits at work, in one of which the seeds were sown in the beginning of October ; and having seen them several times since that period, and found them fully answer the purpose, by producing plenty of good fruit from the seeds then sown up to the present time, without a single failure, during the past winter, when so many gardeners lost their plants from severity of weather; I have no doubt that an account of their management will be acceptable to some of your readers; if, like many with whom I have conversed on the subject, they have hitherto found it difficult to obtain good cucumbers from pits. In the first place, I beg to notice that the size of the pits is not of any consequence; so that those who have frames which have been used for beds may have their pits made to suit them, and they may be made for one, two, or three lights. Having fixed on the piace on which to build, mark it out 4 ft. wider than the frames, to allow 2 ft. on each side for the linings; dig it out about 18 in. below the surface of the ground, so that half the brickwork (which will be 3 ft. high) may be under ground; by which means the linings will be better protected frem the wind, and it will be much more convenient to get at the inside of the frames. If it is intended to build more than one pit, let them stand 4 ft. apart, that there may be sufficient room to lay dung between them, and allow 2 ft. at the ends of the pit for linings, as at the back and front. The space being dug out, let a brick drain be made the full length, of about 4:in. square, keeping the covering brick a little below the ground, so as to allow all water to drain away from the dung, as well as to receive the water given in the frames. The pits being built, having a. flue round and one between each light, let them be filled half way up with brickbats, thrown in loosely. Then put on the frames, and when the work is dry, throwin as much well-wrought dung as will reach about 6 in. higher than the top of the flues, but not to cover the flues, on which dung the hills are to be formed in the usual way. By this means the plants will be raised very near the glass during the winter months, and, by the time the hot weather comes, the dung will have sunk sufficiently low to prevent the sun injuring the plants; the dung also producing a moist heat, the want of which has been so much complained of in brick pits. All other treatment the same as for beds, except that at all times while the weather requires the flues to be heated, plenty of water should be given on the flues once a day at least, which water moistening their sides, and the dung lying against them, causes a steam in the frames equal to a dung bed, which adds greatly to the health of the plants. Another circumstance I wish to notice is, that the plants are often lost by the steam blowing in at the back of lights when left up at night to admit air. This may be remedied by having a row of narrow panes of glass at the upper end of the lights; which may be taken out, and the place covered, as occasion may require, with something else. It has frequently been found difficult to preserve cucumbers in pits from being destroyed by what gardeners commonly call sow bugs (Oniscus Aséllus). These are encouraged by the frames being kept too dry; but may, however, be easily caught in small narrow boxes without a lid, filled with dry loose hay, put in only tight enough to keep it from falling out when the boxes are placed with the open part downwards; or, if boxes are not easily obtained, common flower-pots will do, placed in the same manner about the frames, into which, after the flues are watered in the morn ing, the insects will soon collect, and may be taken out and destroyed. I should think that where new lights are made, instead of the bars going from D 4 4:0 General Notices. thebottom rail to the top, they might fasten in another rail within 2 in. of the top, leay- ing a space of that width along the top of the lights to be covered with a lid of tin or copper, hung on -hinges, to be raised as occasion required for the pur- pose of giving air at night (jig. 20.) I am doubtful whether you will beable to understand my meaning; but T am sure if you should, you will easily make others understand it when you have given them a sketch of it, or perhaps will suggest something better. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— A Lover of Horticulture. Hammersmith, Sept. 28. 1830. The Mildew. — Most of the peach and nectarine trees, in a very exten- sive garden, were long since badly infected with the mildew; and, for the last four or five years, were invariably getting worse, although I was con- stantly trying almost every experiment I had seen recommended, as well as others, on my own judgment. The result was no improvement, and the trees became so bad that Lord Doneraile advised me to throw them out altogether, and replace them with young ones. Being aware that there was nothing amiss with the roots, and that all the evil was above the sur- face, I suggested trying them another year, to which His Lordship assented. In January last I had all the nails carefully drawn, and the trees detached from the wall: the nails and shreds being removed, I then cut back every young shoot I conceived likely to break, to an eye or two. My next object was to get the trees most carefully washed with the composition given below; making use of a sponge where it could be used with effect, and in all the crevices and joints using a painter’s small soft sash-brush. This being performed, I got all the old nail holes stopped, and the walls perfectly cleaned. I then nailed the trees to the wall again, and I have now the satisfaction to find that I have not the slightest appearance of mildew or blight of any kind. The wood is perfectly healthy and well furnished, The trees are from 10 to 12 ft. in height, and equally spread out on every side. They have been planted about fourteen years, and from their present appearance I can have little doubt of a plentiful crop next season. In fact, those who saw them last January can scarcely be persuaded that they are the same trees. The following is the composition used: — To four gallons of rain or river water add two pounds soft soap, one pound flowers of sulphur, one pound roll tobacco, one quart fresh slaked lime, and one pint of spirits of turpentine. Mix the whole well together, and boil the mixture slowly for half an hour. I am, Sir, yours, &e. — John Haycroft. Doneraile, Nov. 1831. Cleaning Wall Nails which have been used, preparatory to their being again used. — My gardener used to spend days, and I may say weeks, in winter, in cleaning up his wall nails; to save which time, I take any quantity, as accumulated by collecting from time to time, from the shreds, and boil them in a small copper with 14 1b. of American potashes to every pailful of water. Two pailfuls will be sufficient to preserve the copper from being burnt. The nails are kept boiling for about two hours, and well stirred up with a stick, and stubbed with a birchen broom. I clean 40 lbs. at a time, and the same water will serve for many lots; so that I can clean near | cwt. in a few hours, and for less than 2s.— H.S. Sittingbourn, Feb. 3. 1831. General Notices. 4] Destruction of Insects by Ammoniacal Gas. — Sir, Among the various plans hitherto proposed for the destruction of insects injurious to vegetation particularly under glass, there is scarcely one, if any, that is not liable to some great objection: one of the best, tobacco smoke, leaves a disagreeable smell, very difficult to be got rid of, and is chiefly useful against the aphides. Sulphur, if exposed to a temperature very little above that required for slow evaporation, forms sulphuric acid gas, which is highly destructive to vegeta- tion. Lime renders the plants unsightly, and lime-water is liable to the same objection ; while soap is difficult to apply, and more difficult still to wash off, if allowed to dry on. It was with some pleasure, therefore, I saw that Mr. Major, in his work on insects, proposes for the destruction of the red spider a trial of ammoniacal gas, it having been found by Sir H. Davy to be instantly fatal to insect life. In order to ascertain how far this might be applied to plants with safety, in October last I submitted a plant of slender fuchsia (Fuchsia gracilis) infested with the red spider, another of common myrtle (J/yrtus communis) affected with the turtle, or scaly insect (Céccus hespéridum), and a third of nutmeg-scented storksbill (Pelargonium fragrans), covered with the common green aphis, to the action of this gas, decomposing the muriate (sal ammoniac) by quicklime in a saucer, and placing the whole under a large hand-light. The result was, that the Fachsia lost, with the insects, all its leaves; the other plants did not seem injured, the turtle insect appeared destroyed, but the aphides seemed to have sustained little or no injury. I believed at the time I had used too great an excess of lime, which, from the heat evolved, I then thought had destroyed the leaves of the fuchsia. I next procured some leaves with cocci (turtle insects) upon them, and others with aphides, and placed them in solutions of ammoniacal gas in water (diluted hartshorn) of various degrees of strength, but found it had little effect upon the latter insects, unless placed in hartshorn of the medium strength; but the turtle insects were soon destroyed, even in the weaker solutions. It then occurred to me that it would be very easy to saturate an atmo- sphere of a given extent with the gas itself; but as it is very fugitive, though at the same time rapidly absorbable by water, I thought the best way would be first to saturate the air with moisture, by throwing water upon the heated flues, and, as soon as the plants contained in the house were sufficiently damp, to liberate the ammonia. In a green-house 16 ft. by 8 ft., and about 10ft. deep, I placed four saucers containing sufficient quick- lime to decompose 2 0z. of sal ammoniac dissolved in water, the vapour of which seemed to have had no effect upon either insects or plants the next morning. Considering the vapour not strong enough, I next placed 3 oz. of the salt, and decomposed it in the same way; and by the next day the turtle insect appeared destroyed; but the aphides, though weakened, were left in sufficient numbers to replenish the house, although the gas had been so powerful as to change the more delicate blue and red flowers to green, and, as I in a day or two found, to destroy the leaves of many of the plants, and a few of the plants altogether. The succulent plants suffered most, with a few exceptions: the Senécio élegans, Lobelia ceertlea, Leuco- déndron argénteum, Indigéfera filifolia, and Hyoscyamus atreus, were entirely killed; the cinerarias, fuchsias, lobelias, Lachenalia tricolor, He- liotropium peruvianum, Maurdndya Barclaydna or antirrhiniflora, Phee‘nix dactylifera, Primula pre/nitens (or sinénsis), Strelitzia regina, Bocconia serrulata, Calla (now Richardia) zthidpica, Cobe‘a scandens, Bulbine alooides, cassias, and some of the mesembryanthemums, were much injured ; while the hoyas, oleanders, citrons, acacias, camellias, aloes, crassulas, most of the mesembryanthemums, and heaths, escaped altogether, though all were equally exposed to the vapour. Its effect upon the red spider I could not ascertain, as none were at the time in active existence. As it is still probable this gas may be serviceable in the destruction of 42 General Notices. some kinds of insects, I have been led to send you the foregoing account, hoping, at least, it may save some trouble and disappointment to others, if no better use can be made of it. —Sigma. Saffron Walden, March 3. 1831. This article should be read in connection with that subsequently writ- ten by Mr. Robert Mallet, and published in our Vol. VII. p. 557. — Cond. The Culture and Curing of Tobacco by every Gardener, in order to employ it in destroying the Insects which infest his Plants. — There is nothing more common, when walking through houses of different descriptions, than to see many of their inmates covered with insects, which might be easily destroyed by fumigation; and should you make an observation on this, you will frequently be told that the owner grudges the expense of a few pounds of tobacco in a year for their destruction. I have myself been placed in such circumstances, and been driven to many shifts to get rid of insects, rather than apply for the proper remedy. These shifts have for some years ast induced me to grow my own tobacco: and, although I do not manu- facture it pleasant enough for the mouth, I do it well enough to destroy any insect for which tobacco is used. As I have in general plenty of it, I have no occasion (except for a single plant) to use either bellows or atent syringe: for I make a few small heaps about the house upon a- lanted coal, and it requires no other attention till burnt out, when the insects will have dropped; as, not having to be in the smoke, I can give them a little more than I should perhaps like myself. Should this appear in your Magazine at an early period, perhaps some of your corre- spondents will give farther information on the subject before the spring, that T and others may receive the benefit of it. J have tried many ways to obtain the best crops of tobacco: such as sowing in frames very early, pricking out and potting in small pots, then finally planting out, &c.; but the best method I am acquainted with is the following: — About the ‘middle of March make up a dung bed, according to the quantity required to be transplanted ; say 2 yards wide and 3 long, and 2 ft. high; put on about 3 in. of mould, not too light, as a loamy soil hangs better to the roots when wet, and thereby assists the plants when removed. I usually cover part of the bed with hand-glasses, and leave part without protection. By this means, that which comes up first is, of course, soonest fit to plant out, and the other does to make good any that may have failed at the first time of planting; as there will always some fail. Plant out as soon as large enough, either in single rows in different places, or in rows 5 ft. apart and about 18 in. from plant to plant in the row. No other attention is neces- sary, but to pick off the flowers as they appear, and gather the leaves when full grown, and, if it can be done, dry them in the shade. When dried, so as not to be in danger of the leaves rotting, put them in a heap to heat, or, if the quantity is not sufficient to heat, press it well into a sack, and lay it either in a sufficient quantity of moist litter or on a flue with a gentle fire; in a short time it will acquire the smell of tobacco, and may be laid by in boxes, and used as required. I have sown the seed in the autumn in a vinery, not forced, and planted out the plants in the spring, which is a good way to have it forward ; but, for general practice, the first method is recommended by yours, &c.— E. S. To detect stolen Posts or Pales.—Bore holes in them, and fill them with gunpowder, or crackers ; when the thief puts them in the fire they will tell tales. (Newsp.) Blue Colour from Buck Wheat. [Qy. from all the Polygonums ?] — The following is given as a method of extracting a blue colour from the straw of buck wheat : — The straw should be gathered before the grain is quite dry, and placed upon the ground in the sun, until it becomes sufficiently dry to be taken from the husks with facility. The wheat having been removed, the straw is to be piled up, moistened, and left to ferment till it is in a state of decomposition, when it will become of a blue colour: this indicates General Notices. 43 the period when it should be gathered, and formed into cakes, which are to be dried in the sun, or in a stove. On these cakes being boiled in water the water assumes a strong blue colour, which will not change either in vinegar or sulphuric acid. It may, however, be turned into red with alkali, into a light black with bruised gall nuts, and into a beautiful creen by evaporation. Stuffs dyed blue with this solution, which is to boweed in the same way as vegetable matters of a similar species employed in dyeing, become of a beautiful and durable colour. (Lit. Gaz., Oct. 9. 1830.) Temperance Societies are doing incalculable good here, as I can testify from personal observation. In the Edinburgh Society we have already above 2500 people; some of whom told me, that even one glass of whisky per day cost them 2/. 10s.a year, confessing at the same time that they knew it did them no good, but perhaps harm. The Society says nothing against the proper use of malt liquor or pure wines. There is so much of a free- masonry sort of feeling among gardeners, that I should think a Scottish Gardeners’ Temperance Society would produce a grand public and private effect in England. — R. Edinburgh, Nov. 17. 1831. We insert the above because it 1s sent us bya much valued correspond- ent; but we have higher hopes of gardeners than to suppose that if any of them were addicted to more drinking than they could afford, or than was good for their health, they would find it necessary to get rid of the practice by binding themselves by the rules of a Temperance Society. Perhaps there may be some persons who require such a species of co- ercion, and Temperance Societies may therefore act as a palliative of the disease in this case; but we have little confidence in them even for this purpose, and we look upon them as not at all calculated for removing the cause of the evil. The majority of persons who drink to excess, do so, we apprehend, as a source of enjoyment, for want of something better. Open up various resources to them, and you will at least divide their en- joyments. This is gaining something. Misery of various kinds induces many to resort to the momentary oblivion produced by alcohol ; incessant. toil requires occasional indulgence; and the practice of drinking, once commenced, soon becomes a habit, and doubtless increases the misery it was intended to relieve. If the object of Temperance Societies were to enquire into the causes of this misery and its remedies, we should strongly recommend them to gardeners. _In some able articles on this subject in the Mechanic’s Magazine, the uselessness of the Temperance Societies, as at present constituted, is forcibly pointed out, and the causes of drinking traced to the bad laws and bad usages which have entirely cut off the bulk of the people from a great many sources of innocent and healthful pleasure, while they have restrained them in the enjoyment of others. Every thing which could diminish the workman’s hours of hard labour has been carefully guarded against; while nothing has been adopted to increase, to purify, or to heighten his pleasures. Render men comfortable and happy and there will be no occasion for Temperance Societies ; but it would lead us too far to point out the evils which require to be remedied. We refer to the various articles on.the subject in the sixteenth volume of the Mechanic’s Magazine, and more especially to the articles in p. 109. and 202. In the mean time, if any gardener is in the habit of taking a dram of whisky every morning, and wishes to leave it off, let him begin with a large bottle of the spirit, and every time he takes out a glass of whisky, let him put in a glass of water. This is the way in which people cure themselves of taking laudanum, to which, by the by, we understand the Temperance Societies about Glasgow and Paisley have driven some of their mem- bers.— Cond, FLORICULTURE. A Plan for removing choice Florists’ Flowers from one Pot to another without Injury. — Sir, I herewith send youa plan of mine, for removing the more ded General Notices. choice prize flowers from one pot to another, without injury to their vegeta- tion. Another advantage of my plan is, that the plant may be raised so that 21 if the lower part may beexa- mined, and any slug or insect, found among the roots, destroyed. Fig. 21. represents a table with three pots. I have taken away the lower part of the centre pot, to show the inside of its bottom, as my plan is to have pots with loose bottoms. A small projection (a) round the inside of the sides of the pot is made for the movable bottom to rest upon. When I want to re- move a plant, I have a light rim, the size of the opening of the pot, with three upright spring legs (666). These are rivet- ed to the rim c, and are calculated to bear the weight of the plant and earth; and, by pressmg on the ledge of the pot, the plant may be raised to any height (d), or turned out of the pot. By having pots made of certain sizes, the bottoms may be removed along with the plant. Street, Lancaster, Oct. 3. 1829. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — M. Saul. Sulyard A new Tulip Transplanter. (fig. 22.) —Sir, Lam inclined to think you will consider my invention of a tulip planter not unworthy of a place in your Magazine, in order that your readers may judge of it for them- selves. A few weeks ago a tin tulip planter (jig. 23.) was brought to me as an excellent thing for planting tulips with. It did not appear as such to me; but I requested the per- son to let us go. to the nearest gar- den, to try it, im order that I might point out its defects. In the first place, I pressed it into the tulip bed, and then I was able to prove that it would not bring up the earth per- fectly. I afterwards pointed out another defect in discharging the earth; and the answer was, how could I remedy it? I requested to have a few days for that purpose : I consequently gave orders to have another kind of tulip transplanter made, which I have sent you (fig. 22.), together with the one be- fore-mentioned ; so that you may try both plans, and then give your judgment as to which is the best. I consider there is a great advantage in having the apparatus to open, with a spring (2) to close itagain. General Notices. 45 When the tulip-bed is prepared, this apparatus is used to take out the earth, after which the bulb is placed in the hole; and then, by press- ing the spring, the earth is discharged on the bulb from the machine with the greatest ease. This apparatus is so simple, and so easily worked that I think it might answer for a variety of horticultural purposes, by having it of different sizes, for the transplanting of different things. TI re- main, Sir, yours, &c.—MV, Saul. Sulyard Street, Lancaster, October 7. 1831. We have not had an opportunity of trying this instrument, but it pro- mises to be an excellent one for the purpose proposed, and it certainly merits the attention of those who study the exquisite, or what the Ger- mans call the aesthetik, in floriculture. The French have a transplanter, calculated to effect the same object; but not with such nicety, because it wants the spring. Our readers will find the French transplanter figured Vol. I. p. 268. — Cond. A cheap Awning for Beds of Tulips, Ranunculuses, §c. — Sir, The kind of awning of which I now send you a sketch (fig. 24.) and description is quite a cheap one, and is much used by the Lancashire tulip-growers. It consists of a few uprights and rafters, and a piece of canvass which is fixed at a, and extends to 6 6. A strong roller (c) is fixed to the edge of the can- vass ; a cord is fixed to the roof, under the canvass, and brought round the roller c, and over the canvass to a pulley at d, so that by drawing the cord e, the canvass is rolled up by the roller c. By the use of a similar cord on the other side, running in a distinct pulley at d, either side of the awning may be pulled partly or wholly up, as circumstances may dictate. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — M. Saul. Lancaster, Sulyard Street, Oct. 16. 1830. Accommodating half-hardy Exotics to our Seasons. — Sir, From the ob- servations I have made on early-flowering plants placed against south walls, I am decidedly of opinion (where fruit is not the object) that we are in error ; and that, instead of their being planted against a south wall, with the idea of their receiving the sun in the winter and spring months, thereby forwarding them unduly, all early-flowering plants should be placed against north walls; as it must be quite clear to persons acquainted with such plants, that the grand object is to retard their blooming as much as possible until the season is sufficiently advanced for them to expand without the liability of beg destroyed by frost. As a proof of the correctness of what I state, had that fine plant of Wistaria Consequana in the garden of the Horticultural Society been on a north wall instead of a south, the bloom would not have been destroyed by frost, as was the case last year. Camellias also ought to be retarded as much as possible, as it is well known that the first sharp wind or frost will spoil the beauty of the blossom. T have had a fine plant of the striped camellia bloom beautifully the last 4.6 General Notices. two seasons against a south wall ; but, what with the cold at night and the sun in the day, the flowers were not in perfection above twenty-four hours, So much for the extremes of heat and cold. South walls should only be covered with late-flowering plants, as those are the plants which require to be brought forward. Iam, Sir, yours, &c..— H. Groom. Walworth, April 12. 1831. _- Method of prolonging the Flowering Season of Border Flowers. — Lupines, yellow, large blue, small blue, white, and straw-coloured. For all these the same mode of culture will suffice. The seed should be sown between the 20th and 30th of March, in pots, size 32, or larger, and not too thickly. When the young plants crowd each other, turn them out of the pots, and cut off the tap root of each. They may then be either potted or planted in the open ground at pleasure. The only further culture they require is weeding, watering, and cutting off the flower-stalks as soon as the petals drop off. By this means the plant will not waste its strength in forming seed; fresh shoots will continually grow; and the same plant will be in full bloom from June to October. Pelargoniums. The flower-stalks should be cut off, as recommended for the lupine; which will very much lengthen their time of flowering, and greatly conduce to the vigour and neat look of the plants, The same may be said of the dahlia, scabious, rose-campion, and, indeed, of all sorts of herbaceous plants. Georginas. The roots of the georgina should be planted in pots about the latter end of February, and, if possible, placed under a hand-glass, or in a frame. They may be planted in the border, about the beginning of June. The compost for them should be three fourths sand ; and but little water should be given them, otherwise they will grow to an immense size, and be destroyed by the frost before they can bloom. It may be as well to plunge pot and all into the ground, By the above it will be seen that the chief peculiarity of my mode of culture is cutting off the flower-stalks as the petals drop. I must beg also to remind the London horticulturist of the great benefits of using a garden engine to wash off the soot. — MJattheus Sylvaticus. April, 1828. - The Dividivi (Ce@salpinia Coriaria),—In the month of June, 1829, I sent seeds of this plant to Dr. Bancroft, and Ihave lately been gratified by a letter from Mr. M‘Fadyen, the scientific ex-director of the botanic garden at Jamaica, dated the 3d of September, 1831, from which the following extract will be satisfactory : — “ In several situations we have succeeded in raising the plant from the seeds which you were kind enough to send us (viz. in 1829). Ihave two very healthy plants at Hope Estate, one of which is just coming into flower, and the other is preparing; sa that in a short time we shall have it in our power to try the experiment on a larger and more satisfactory scale. Like its congener, the C. pulchérrima (Barba- does flower-fence, or doodle-doo), it would appear to be adapted to flourish in the hottest and most parched of our plains.” This opinion perfectly tallies with the account I lately received from Carthagena, and shows more strongly the immense value of its introduction into our colonies; while his account fixes the age at which seedling plants begin to flower, at about two years, or perhaps thirty months upon an average: the fact deserves to be recorded in your Magazine for general information. The pods of this tree, besides their utility in the arts, manufactures, and medicine, as a sub- stitute for galls, are greedily devoured by cattle; and, in times of scarcity, furnish a valuable provender for them. The mean produce of tannin from 60 grains, as deduced from the results of two experiments, is 6°625 grains; while the mean produce of 60 grains of the best Aleppo galls was only 4°625. Hence, taking 80s. per cwt., or 80/. per ton, as the mean value of galls (estimated from the prices in the Prices Current), the par of yalue of a ton of dividivi may be found by the following. proportion ;— General Notices. 4.7 As 4°625 : 6:625 :: 80 : 115°2433, or 115/. 4s. 104d. sterling ; a price which, taking the mean annual produce at 30 lbs. each ton, and allowing 222 tons to the acre, gives a total produce of 2°97322 tons, worth at the par of value, 342°643/., or 342/. 12s. 101d.: a return from ground not otherwise worth 6d. per acre, which does not yield in amount to that of sugar, without a twentieth of its expense and hazards. I remain, Sir, yours, &c.— Wilham Hamilton. Oxford Place, Plymouth, October 20. 1831. Cactee.— Our collections are now, by the zeal of the botanists in the New World, beginning to be well stocked with the species of this curious and highly interesting family. At one time, the hotter parts of that vast continent were alone supposed to afford them: but from the latitude of Mendoza (33° S.), and at a considerable elevation above the level of the sea, Dr. Gillies has supplied the Glasgow and other botanic gardens with no less than twenty-two species; all gathered within the distance of a morning’s ride from that city; while in North America, Messrs. Douglas, and Drummond met with cactuses between the parallels of 40° and 50°, in the Rocky Mountains: whereas, Professor Schouw has scarcely ex- tended the region of the tribe beyond the tropics. (Dr. Hooker, in Cur- kis’s Botanical Magazine for October, 1831, tab. 3107.) Brugmansia suaveolens. — Sir, Having seen in your late Magazine an account of the Datura arborea, now called Brugmansia suaveolens, I am desirous of givmg you some further account of that most magnificent plant. I planted one three years ago, within a pit in a lofty conservatory, which grew most rapidly, and bloomed the second year: it increased in growth, and in the third year it kept in bloom till winter; and my gar- dener picked up the flowers that fell from it, amounting to eleven hundred and seventeen. It has still several buds on it, ready to bloom when spring advances. This beautiful plant is fit only for a pit in the conservatory ; being of too luxuriant and rapid a growth for a garden pot, in which it will never blossom to advantage. It is easily propagated by cuttings ; and, whene visited by night, the sweet perfume which its bleeecns emit is highly grateful. —hk.C.H. Stourhead, Feb. 1831. Georginas, their sportive Variation in Colour from Seeds. — In the spring of 1831, Mr. Lord, florist and seedsman, Bury St. Edmunds, sowed seeds of Douglas’s augusta, which, as it will be remembered, is of a shaded rosy colour. From these seeds plants arose, which, on blooming in September and October last, displayed respectively the following colours: striped red, dark crimson, dark lilac, rose, light crimson, shaded crimson, light scarlet, purple, maroon (?), bright crimson, salmon-coloured, dark red, one of a very dark colour something like pilla, and one of the same colour as mutabilis. From scarlet turban Mr. Lord has raised several different shades of scarlet, crimson, and lilac; and one plant with biossoms of a red colour. From coccinea supérba he has raised a crimson, purple, red, scar- let, orange scarlet, light lilac, and a dark crimson. Mr. Barrett of Hard- wicke, close by (raiser of those superb georginas, Barrett’s Susanna, and Barrett’s King), has informed me that he has seen several georginas, raised from one head of seed, and that of these seedlings part had white flowers, the remainder yellow flowers. The grower would not inform him from which particular variety they were raised. — Henry Turner. Botanic Gar- den, Bury St. Edmunds, October 1. 1831. Sportiveness of the Species of Salpiglossis. — Dr. Graham observes (Edin- burgh New Philosophical Journal for Oct. 1831, p. 377.) : — “ I mentioned, in May, the confusion into which the species, or supposed species, of Cal- ceolaria were falling, by the multiplication of mules in cultivation. Another South American genus [Salpiglossis] has run wild from another cause. Salpigléssis seems to require no admixture of pollen to produce great variety of form: it sports into many shapes and colours from mere insta- bility of character. I now entertain no doubt that we have but one species 48 General Notices. in cultivation. I have now (June, 1831) flowering in the Edinburgh Botanic Garden many seedling plants from 8. atropurpurea, which are precisely S. straminea, though the size of the flower varies in the different specimens. I have also seedling plants of S. picta, in some of which the corolla, though perfect, is not above a quarter of an inch long, and pure white; in others, the corolla never appears at all; yet, both last year and this, specimens of this description have produced abundance of seeds. I hope these blunders are excusable on the first introduction of a little-known genus into cul- tivation, as I myself contributed to the confusion; but the persevering in them would be without apology. I learn from my accurate friend Mr. Cruikshanks that the forms in Salpigldssis vary greatly in their wild state.” The case of seeds being duly produced from blossoms which have been abortive in corollas, has been long exemplified in Viola odorata, and V. hirta; although in these it usually occurs during the summer, and perhaps autumn, after their proper season of blooming, namely, the spring. Da- tira Tédtulahas also been witnessed by the Rev. Mr. Creed, a gentleman in Norfolk or Suffolk, to bear apetalous blossoms, which were, nevertheless, duly productive of seeds. Although the sportiveness of the salpiglossises above named is considered not to have arisen from one kind having impregnated another, that new kinds may be generated by cross-impregnation is proved by the existence of the Salpigléssis Barclaydna, mentioned Vol. VII. p. 597. as a hybrid from seeds of 8. picta which had been impregnated with the pollen of S. atropurpurea. — J. D. Additional Hybrid Calceolarias.— Professor Graham, in his description of the new Calceolaria angustiflora (not angustifolia), published t. 3094. in the August number of Cuwrtis’s Botanical Magazine, exhibits his reasons for considering.C. angustiflora a species; and that it is not a British hybrid he proves circumstantially. To these reasons and remarks he adds :— « Still a continued experience of the tendency to produce hybrids which this genus possesses, renders me more and more sceptical about the title which very appreciable varieties of form have to be considered specifically distinct. In a former number of the Edinburgh Philosophical Journal, 1 noticed some mule plants which had been raised by Mr. Gardner, at Gran- ton, near Edinburgh, by artificially impregnating some of the most distin- guishable kinds of Calceolaria. Since that time, the same cultivator has obtained all sorts of mixtures, and blended different species into one another, through an infinity of gradations.” In our Vol. VI. p. 493, 494., an extract from Professor Graham’s com- munication to the Hdinburgh Philosophical Journal is given; in which the hybrid calceolarias there noticed are said to have been raised by “ Mr. Mor- rison, gardener to Lord President Hope, at Granton.” Whether the hy- brids above alluded to, through some mistake in the names of the parties, be the same with those mentioned in Vol. VI. p.493. or not, we cannot tell, nor does it much matter. If they be identical, one interesting fact remains, namely, that, subsequently to the notice referred to, additional hybrids have been originated in the vicinity of Edinburgh. To these, for the sake of conspectiveness, may be added the hybrid mentioned in p. 510. of Volume VII. At the show, July 5., of the London Horticultural Society, Miss Martineau exhibited “ a Calceolaria raised from seed of C: Fothergilli, fertilised by C. corymbosa.” At the exhibition on June 21. Mr. James Young produced “ some fine specimens of hybrid calceolarias.” Of these report has more than once reached us, and attested them most beautiful; but an advertisement in our August Number informs us that the ‘majority of these are identical with those above named, Messrs. Young having “ become the exclusive proprietors of the fine hybrid calceolarias raised in Scotland, and partly described in the Gardener’s Magazine, Vol. VI. p. 494.” Of these Messrs. Young offer five distinct varieties, a General Notices. 49 plant of each, and a plant of Calceolaria Yotingi, for two guineas. C. Young is a hybrid of great magnificence, and is figured in the Botanical Register for October (1831), tab. 1448., whence we learn, “ it was raised last year from [seed of] a plant of C. arachndidea impregnated with C. co- rymbosa.” Its blossoms are of the size of those of C. corymbosa, their ground-colour yellow, with a large deep purple spot upon the centre of each inflated slipper or lip ; creating a contrast, by the vivid richness of the colours, that is singularly striking and beautiful. C. Young# in habit appears to assimilate closely to C. corymbosa, and to have obtained little or none of the caulescence of its female parent, C. arachndidea. The Bo- tanical Register contains the following directions for the successful culti- vation of the superb C. Youngii: —“ It grows freely in rich soil, and is increased by division of the roots. It requires an airy situation in the green-house throughout the winter. Early in the spring, care should be taken to observe the progress of its growth, so as always to give it ample pot-room, shifting it as soon as its roots reach the outside ; by which means much luxuriance of growth, and an astonishing abundance of flowers, are insured. But the greatest display of its beauty is to be obtained by plant- ing it (in rich soil) in the open border, in May, where it will uninterrupt- edly increase in strength and splendour until October.” The height of the specimen figured is not stated ; but, from a friend who saw a plant in blossom, we have learned it was 2 ft. or more in height. It will be seen (in p. 509. of Volume VII.) that Messrs. Young have suc- ceeded in growing C. corymbosa itself to the height of 3 ft., by treating it with manured water; and it is probable that, by the same means, C. Yotngw even may be so invigorated and magnified as to farther enhance its excellence. Besides the hybrid calceolarias above mentioned, Mr. Dennis has raised one or two; and we have heard that there are others about. We shall be happy to receive accounts of them. “ For a long time [Professor Lindley remarks, Bot. Register, t. 1454.] the only colours that were known to exist in calceolarias were yellow or orange. ‘The first purple kind that was raised, C. purpurea, is a plant so impatient of cultivation, that it still remains extremely scarce; but C. arachn6idea [the second purple one, and which is almost hardy] is not only a common ornament of all choice gardens, but has become the parent of many very remarkable hybrids.” On the culture of the shrubby calceolarias, it is needless to remark their affection for a warm humid atmosphere. Mr. Thomas Bridges of Valpa- raiso, collector and vender of the productions of nature there, in his first letter thence, a few years since, remarked that in his earliest rambles he found the shrubby calceolarias thriving and luxuriating in damp situations at the bases of the hills about Valparaiso. — J. D. Narcissinean Plants having been long peculiar objects of my attention, and having, under the auspices of my employers, Messrs. Young, been gra- ciously permitted to form an extensive collection of these precocious and fragrant beauties ; and as among them exist new and noble species, amply testified in the recent monograph of my learned friend A. H. Haworth, Esq., (a second edition of which is just published with an English preface, em- bracing a historical view of the tribe and a detailed mode of culture, thereby rendering it the fullest and best account that has hitherto appeared, ) T hereunder append the names of a few of the rarer or more interesting kinds, which yielded their flowers in fine strength and consequent beauty during the past season : — A‘jar Sal. and Haw. A‘jaa Sal. and Haw. 9 J 4 x N nanus Haw. cérnuus flore pléeno. albicans Haw, serratus y radians Haw. x Ne yf tortudsus Haw, lobularis Haw. - cérnuus Haw. #8? amplicorona Haw. Vou. VIII. — No. 36. E 50 General Notices. A‘jaa Sal. and Haw. Ganymédes Sal. and Haw.’ cambricus Haw. céncolor Haw. maximus Haw. striatulus Haw. The subgenera (for such alone do I esteem them) Illus, Ganymédes, Diomédes, and Trés, are certainly the most rare and beautiful of their numerous affinities. They succeed best (particularly Ganymédes) in a pure loamy soil in an open but warm situation. The two species of Ga- nymeédes cited above flowered with more than ordinary vigour, and are now very promising for the subsequent developement of their graceful forms. Diomédes Haw. Hermione Sal. and Haw. Macléayz Penny. biscrenata Haw. Sabinz Penny. perlutea Haw. Trés Haw. lacticolor Haw. poculiférmis Haw. crispicoréna Haw. galanthifolius Haw. Heléna Haw. Quéltia Sal. and Haw. gracilis Haw. semipartita Haw. Narcissus L. Sal. and Haw. Phildgyne Sal. and Haw, ornatus Haw, heminalis Haw. 6 plu- riflora Haw. * With your permission, after the ensuing flowering season, I shall trans- mit for your valuable work a complete enumeration of the species and varieties, probably amounting to upwards of 150, cultivated here; with some observations on the validity of the species, and more extended directions for their successful cultivation. — George Penny, A. L. S. (here- tofore Alpha). Epsom Nursery, Dec. 19. 1831. ; Perfect Seeds and Culture of Lathyrus grandiflorus. — Sir, Having trained . the magnificent pea, the Lathyrus grandiflorus, against a wall with a south aspect, in the expectation that such treatment would conduce towards perfecting its seed pods, an occurrence rarely, if by any chance, I am told, ever happening in this country, I have to state, that, although the plant grew most vigorously, attained the height of 9 ft. and upwards, and was covered by a profusion of fine bold flowers, still there was no appearance of fructification going on. The blossoms, after a certain time, withered, dropped from their flower-stalks, and carried the germ, &c., along with them. On examining the flowers, I found the keel to all of them to be con- siderably distorted at the part which protects the stigma; so much so, as to entirely preclude the possibility of the pollen being brought into action, towards perfecting the fructification of the embryo pod, I introduced the point of a knitting needle into the opening of the keel, and slightly pressed upon the underside of the flower till the stigma and anthers protruded ; and at this point, provided the flower was sufficiently mature, I found the anthers to discharge the pollen pretty freely. When this took place, I withdrew the needle, and had the satisfaction to find the greatest part of the flowers so treated leave healthy germs behind, firmly fixed to their respective flower-stalks: and from their present progressive appearance, I hope to have the pleasure of gathering perfect ripened pods this season. I am, Sir, yours, &«.— G, C. Masham, Yorkshire, July 11. 1831. A sketch of the pods, exhibiting their promising appearance on the 11th of July, accompanied this our correspondent’s obliging communication. We omit the sketch, as it will be sufficient to remark that the most forward pod was 3 in. long, and of an elegant figure. We have, how- ever, previously known of three pods being produced in a natural way by plants of this superb pea; but are, as our readers will be, obliged to our correspondent for pointing out a means by which they can, by a little arti- ficial aid, be so readily obtained, Its barrenness in seeds is, however, less a matter of regret, in consequence of its numerous, spreading, sprouting, subterraneous suckers, by which it can be speedily multiplied to any extent. General Notices. 51 Smith, and probably other writers also, seem to consider it almost an axiom that those plants which increase numerously at the root are more or less barren in seeds; and this view has many facts to support it, and seems consistent with our usual experience in physiology, where we witness that a particular appropriation of energies to one part of a plant leaves the other parts impoverished; a doctrine very familiar to the cultivators of fruit. The view also harmonises with a beautiful economy frequently ob- servable in nature, which, while it effects all needful ends, does nothing superfluous. We will name two illustrative instances, to set our young friends think- ing. Nastirtium sylvéstre, which increases abundantly by its suckers, has its seeds “ very sparingly perfected ;”” and N.amphibium, a plant increasing at its roots most prodigiously, has its seed-pods usually small and abortive. We have cited these instances from Smith’s English Flora, but could supply some from our own observation. Smith, in his Hnglish Flora, vol. iii. p. 195., says of the Nastirtium amphibium, “ This plant is noticed by the cele- brated M. Chateaubriand, in his account of England, for its wonderful powers of increase by root. He observed it in the river near Beccles [Suffolk], where he long resided as an emigrant; and his rather florid description has excited wonder and curiosity in many, who daily, perhaps, pass over without regard several no less interesting works of their Creator.” Instances not a few, refractory to the above view, can also be cited: as one, we may name the strawberry, which increases numerously by its pro- liferous stolones, and also plentifully by seeds. It applies strictly, never- theless, in the case of annual and biennial plants, which, being devoid of all radical means of increase, have this defect compensated by their astonish- ing seminal fecundity. The Canterbury bell-flower, Virginian tobacco, Indian corn, and annual sunflower, are familiar examples of this arrange- ment. Some plants which produce splendid flowers are more or less difficult of cultivation. Not so Lathyrus grandiflorus. Almost the only condition on which its ;perfect success depends is early removal. This should be performed as soon as ever the herbage begins to turn yellow, which is at the close of August, when the plant is at rest. Removed at this time, autumnal growth has the good effect of so establishing it, as to enable it both to resist the winter’s frost, and to blossom the succeeding summer. When removed, as it usually is, at any time between February and May, it receives such a check to its growth, which is then going on, that one, and sometimes two, summers are gone before it acquires sufficient vigour to blossom. — J. D. HorrTicuLTuRE. Mr. Seymour’ s System of training Peach and Nectarine Trees. (Vol. 1. p. 130. and Vol. II. p. 295.) — We have been favoured with two communications on this method of training the peach, &c.; and an account of the trees under Mr. Seymour’s own management, as they appeared last summer. “ It is impossible,” says the writer, “for the pen to do the trees justice ; nothing but a personal view can suffice. The health and regularity, the profusion of flowers which covered the mother branches from the stem to the extremities, were truly astonishing. One tree, a Bourdine peach, attracted particular notice; it extended 47 ft. on a 10 ft. wall, and its branches were literally covered with bloom on every part. Since the time I saw it, I have understood from Mr, Seymour that he has thinned off fror: this tree 3540 green fruit, leaving an ample crop to come to perfection. As the process has already been described in your Magazine, it is unnecessary for me to repeat it here; but I may add that it is entirely Mr. Seymour’s own, he never having had a hint, verbal or written, on the method, from any one. The tree in the garden of the Horticultural Society at Chiswick, said to be trained according to Mr. Seymour’s system, is not a fair speci- E 2 52 General Notices. men of his management, nor is it a suitable tree to receive it. The main branches are not placed near enough at bottom, and the stem is too long; - so that this tree will always remain out of due form. There are maiden trees planted and intended for Mr. Seymour’s method, with which they may succeed, especially if they attend to laying in the young shoots in proper time. Of this I have no doubt, as the person charged with the execution has a competent knowledge of, and much approves, the system.” Though this method of training the peach, is,similar in principle to the mother- branch-training of the French gardeners, described in various horticultural works published in that kingdom, and particularly by Mr. Smith in the Transactions of the Caledonian Horticultural Society; yet originality cannot be denied Mr. Seymour in his early stopping the summer shoots intended to bear fruit the following year. His practice in this is entirely new, and may, therefore, be called the spwr-bearing, with as much propriety as it has been called the mother-branch-bearing, system. — J. M. Destroying the Apple Bug (A‘phis lantgera). —1 have found oil and soot well mixed together and rubbed in with a brush, an effectual cure for the A’phis lanigera on apple trees: for though it has appeared again on the same tree, it has never attacked the same parts which had been once well saturated with the mixture. — B. B. Sept. 6. 1831. Hardihood of hybrid Melons, §c. — Sir, My purpese now is to afford you another instance of the greater hardihood of newly originated hybrids, in — corroboration of your remark (Vol. VII. p. 696.) ; but I have rather attri- buted their ability to resist unfavourable circumstances to the greater degree of vigour observable, than to any specific hardihood peculiar to the indi- vidual; for I do not consider that they will retain the property after being frequently reproduced from seed, uninfluenced anew by foreign fecundation. I have this summer met with better success in my cultivation of melons, in an unprotected state, from the seeds of hybrids obtained by cross impreg- nation the season previous, than with old varieties. The offspring of three different hybridisations (one more especially, of which the parents were the two most dissimilar varieties I could select) each yielded more ample and finer produce than any one of between twenty and thirty established varieties, under no other dissimilar circumstances than that some of the latter were raised from older seed. I send you copies of two letters received from the secretary to our Horticultural Society, in allusion to a melon I had sent him, which was raised from seed, and grown throughout in the open air and common ground. The second letter was written in consequence of my expressing a doubt as to his sincerity, and intimating that he had been lavish of his praise merely to yield me gratification. °° Worcester, Sept. 27. *¢ Sir, I beg to forward you the melon seed, as. requested, and to state that the melon which you kindly presented me was by far the finest-flavoured I ever eat, and this was the opi- nion of others who tasted it. J consider it far superior to those grown by heat. Yours, &c. _ “To J. C. K., Esq. J. Evans.” “* Worcester, Oct. 1, ¢ Sir, The colour of the melon was deep orange ; and I assure you that what J said respecting its flavour was not exaggerated ; especially when I inform you that a person who had frequently tasted melons grown in pits, &c., but would never partake of them, nevertheless eat plen- tifully of the one you favoured me with, and said it was far superior to any he had ever tasted. ** Yours, &c. “ To J. C. K., Esq. i J. Evans.” The melon in question weighed 24lbs.; the largest of that sort weighed a quarter more; but of other hybrids I cut one 5lbs. 120z.; and yet others, with the assistance only of a garden hand-glass, attained to 4lbs., 5lbs., and even 6lbs. On reference to the account of the meeting for September, you will note that I there received two prizes for such. (See p.121.) I will next year, provided I am equally fortunate, send you a fruit, to enable you to judge for yourself. Some that I eat myself were equal to the best produce of my frames ripened in July and August; which latter, all who tasted, and, among others, an Eastern traveller, avowed they had never General Notices. 53 seen exceeded. I might add that the fruiterers were willing to give the market price for the fruit thus grown in the open air. Lam, Sir, yours, &c. —J.C.K. Levant Lodge, near Worcester, Dec. 1831. Purple Egg Plant. — This seems to be the only variety cultivated abroad for culinary purposes. I have never once observed even a solitary speci- men in any of the markets of Italy of the white variety, and yet I do not perceive why the latter should not be as good as the former. [t is dressed precisely similar to “ vegetable marrow.” A celebrated traveller informed me that he was once present at an Oriental entertainment, where a growing egg plant was introduced: and the fruit, pendent from the tree, had under- gone various culinary processes, by the dexterous ingenuity of the Chinese : some were boiled, others roasted, &c.— J. Murray. August, 1830. Culture of the Tomatoes ( Lycopérsica.)—I do not think the tomato, or love- apple, is so much cultivated in this country as it deserves; in some places possibly it may never ripen thoroughly, but even in an unripe state it makes an excellent sauce, like apples or gooseberries, for roast meat, such as pork or goose, its acidity being more pleasing than that of apples; and, when fully ripe, tomatoes make an excellent store sauce, for which I send you a receipt (Vol. VII. p. 698.), and I think they might be found to keep as well as some other of our more delicate fruits. They grow easily, after being raised in a hot-bed; and, from the peculiar odour of their leaves, do not so much attract that great enemy of our transplanted seedlings, the slug. It is a mistaken notion, too, that they will only thrive in this country against a wall: they are better away from fruit walls, the trees of which they materially injure, and will thrive as well, when transplanted on a com- mon bed, straggling in their devious course like vegetable marrows or any other of the gourd tribe. Indeed, they may extend to any length, from their propensity to strike root at every joint; and I have, even in the confined limits which I could afford them in my own scanty garden, gathered as many as a peck in a morning. Having mentioned the slug as the great enemy of our gardens, I will just hint at the mode I take to destroy them, and which I have found very effectual; of course, such a plan is hardly available any where but in a small garden, except by broad-cast, which is not so certain in its results. Every morning and evening, or after rain, I send a boy round the different borders and beds with a small bow] of salt, a few grains of which he drops on every slug he finds; and it is really astonishing in how short a time a sensible diminution of the evil is effected. The above fasciculus of hints is much at your service. — B. B. Sept. 6. 1831. The Scarlet-runner Kidneybean was a perennial plant in my father’s garden at Kitwell House, Worcestershire, in 1810, 1811, and 1812. What became of it afterwards I do not know, as we then left the place, and let it for some years. — J. W. L. Bayswater, August 25. 1831. The Scarlet Runner a Perennial. — Sir, Since you published the instances in Vol. VII. p. 485., I have discovered another. Mr. Stephen Watts, Ken- sington Gravel Pits, about eight years ago witnessed it, as well as many of his neighbours. His garden is bounded on the west by the blank back of a house, which fronts the other way; consequently, the wall, which is 20 ft. high, presents its eastern face to his garden. Along this face, at a few inches from its base, he planted a row of scarlet runners; the haulm, herbage, &c. resulting from which were not displaced till the following spring. The man Mr. Watts employed in digging the ground left, by accident or sloven- liness, three root-stocks of the scarlet runner less disturbed than the rest, for three grew again in the second year. Of these three, two were fair plants, not much exceeding in size a strong plant in its first year’s growth ; but the third plant was a prodigy: its branches spread over a space of 6 ft. at a few feet from the ground, and then gradually tapered off as they ascended, and the central one or more of them actually reached the E 3 54 General Notices. summit of the 20 ft. wall. The outline figure of the whole plant was that ofan acuminate cone. The curiosity of his neighbours was highly excited by the marvellous size of the plant, and by his frequent use of ‘a ladder to gather its legumes ; and when informed of the plants being in the second year of its growth, Mr. Watts received liberal offers from several for seeds of his Everlasting Scarlet Runner, as they termed it. It may be well here to notice that the term “ everlasting” is, in other instances, applied to perennials by persons unfamiliar with plants. In a village in Cambridgeshire, known to me, and possibly in the county gene- rally, the Helianthus multiflorus, a well known perennial, is called the Everlasting Sun-flower: this name, without a question, being designed to contradistinguish it the more palpably from the annual species, Helian- thus annuus. The power of spreading, and extensive growth, evinced in the scarlet runner above, exceed every instance previously known to me, and associate instantly a recollection of the close affinity which the genus Phaséolus bears to the genus Délichos. The power of extension possessed by some species of Doélichos is most prodigious. I am, yours, Sir, &c.— John Denson, Bayswater, July 31. 1831. The Sea or Wild Cabbage at Dover. — Sir, Herewith I send you some seed of the sea or wild cabbage (Brassica oleracea Eng. Bot. pl. 637.), no doubt the original parent of many of our garden vegetables. The plant, if not rare, is yet, 1 believe, exceedingly local. Here it is evidently indigenous, growing in the greatest profusion on the chalk cliffs, both on the preci- pitous and accessible parts; but I do not recollect to have seen it else- where, save on the cliff near the sea, immediately under the town of Penzance, where it grows more sparingly; and in that situation its character, as a native plant, is somewhat more dubious, occurring, as it does only, so far as I observed, under the town; a situation which might lead one to suspect that the plant may possibly have sprung from seed escaped from a garden. My reason for sending you the packet of seed, is the hope that you, or some of your friends, may try (as I mean to do my- self) what may be the immediate effect, if any, produced on the plant by ‘cultivation. If (as may be expected) it be at all improved by cultivation, or if it remains just as It is, it cannot but prove, I think, a valuable addi- tion to our gardens; for, even in its wild state, it is as delicious a vegetable as I ever eat. I shall perhaps raise a smile on the faces of some of your blue-aproned readers, when I state that I have had the young tops of this wild cabbage boiled and served up at table many times this month, gathering, of course, only the very eyes or young shoots, and that they have afforded a more delicate dish of vegetables, at least of the cabbage kind, than, I believe, can be purchased in the market at this season of the year. In the spring they would probably be still better, as that, no doubt, must be their proper season. The only wonder is that the sea cabbage is not greedily gathered by the inhabitants, as well for private use as for sale. But such is human nature, that we are ever apt to neglect and despise whatever is common and has always been before our eyes 5 and probably, had I myself been a native of this place, instead of an accidental visiter, I might never have thought of gathermg the wild cab- bage for the use of the table. All the productions of nature, doubtless, have their use, if we could but discover it; and the knowledge of this, and the turning of any common thing to good account, I always consider as a point gained. Such is my opinion of the excellence of the sea cabbage as a culinary vegetable, that for the benefit of mankind I think its growth ought to be encouraged, and its seed scattered on all cliffs and waste places, where it would be likely to succeed. I should mention, that in -a native state the wild cabbage varies in its foliage and general appearance almost as much-as the ordinary garden cabbage differs from the Savoy or General Notices. 65 the broccoli, which latter vegetable it much resembles in its general aspect. Specimens also frequently occur very strongly tinged with a purple colour. Yours, &c.— W.T. Bree. Dover, Aug. 29. 1831. P.S. Since writing the above, I have ascertained that the use of the sea Spee as a culinary vegetable, is not unknown to the inhabitants of Dover. —W.T. B. wi be seed received has been sent to Mr. Charlwood for distribution. — ond. _ Preventing the Sprouting or Germinating of Store Onions during the Winter and Spring. — Sir, As the season has now arrived in which most gardeners have already taken up their store onions, or are about to do so, allow me to suggest a plan for preventing that sprouting or germinating principle which so often renders them inferior even at an early period, and almost invariably useless at a later one, as an ingredient in our cookery. As, however, it is not a plan of my own suggesting, but was mentioned to me by an old lady who had seen it practised in Holland, it is possible it may be known to many of your readers; though, as far as my own ex- perience extends, it is practised by none. It is simply applying a heated iron for a few seconds to the nozzle of the onion whence the roots protrude; and though I am sorry to say I have no onions this year on which to try the experiment, they having been swept from me by some petty depredator, still I can testify from my own previous experience that it is an efficient mode of preserving them, — B. B. Sept. 6. 1831. An Alternative against the Club in the Roots of the different Species of Brassica. — The following may probably prove of use to some of your numerous readers, who have their crops of cauliflowers, broccoli, &c. annually destroyed by this as yet incurable disease. Some time ago 1 had the charge of a garden that was more than commonly subject to the club. Iwas of course induced to try every means in my power to find out aremedy. I visited many gardeners in the immediate neighbourhood, who had the same disease to contend with, but none of them could give me the least hint of either preventive or alternative. I next searched your Encyclopedia of Gardening, but could find no preventive mentioned. in it; and the only alternative I could find noticed was, to take up the plants and cut off the clubbed part of the roots and then replant them. In this case, however, although the clubbed part be cut off, some of the grubs (for grubs they certainly are that cause it) still remain in the roots, or easily enter at the wounded part, and continue to prey upon them, so as to keep them always in an unthriving state. It is evident that the grubs commence their work of destruction when the plants. are young, while the roots are tender and easily penetrable; and, when once they get into the tap roots (which they always begin with first), it is impossible to eradicate them without cutting the roots entirely off, which would destroy the plants also. I thereforeresolved upon trying the following experiment :— _ I procured from a sale garden some good strong healthy plants, the roots of which had become hard and woody, so that the grubs could not easily penetrate them. These I planted in the usual way, and kept them well watered for a few days. In two or three weeks they began to grow most luxuriantly, and ultimately far surpassed my greatest expectations ; indeed, I can truly affirm that there was hardly a failing plant among them. The sorts I planted were purple and white broccoli, Savoys, Brussels sprouts, and cabbages. To complete my experiment I planted on the same day, and in. the same sort of soil and situation, plants of all the above kinds, raised from seed sown in the same garden; and the result was, that two thirds of them went entirely off, and the remaining part continued sickly, and were little worth in the end, I regret, for the sake of the experiment only, that I B4 56 General Notices had not an opportunity of trying it another season, to have been thoroughly convinced of its utility. However, some of your readers who are troubled with the club will probably give the experiment a trial, and communicate the result to your valuable Magazine. In addition to the above, I should recommend that the ground intended for planting the different sorts of Brassica upon be trenched two spits deep in winter, and a sufficient quantity of manure added between the first and second spits; and, previously to planting in spring or summer, to have a good dressing of quicklime and fresh loam, to be dug in, but not deep. But I am afraid that I have taken a very roundabout way of telling those who have gardens subject to the club, that, instead of raising their own cabbages from seed, they must procure clean established plants elsewhere. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — Brassica. Nov. 1831. To produce young Potatoes for the Table during Winter, in the open Air. — The varieties of the potato which I plant are the early kidney, early Ross, and early Graham. At the time of housing potatoes, I select a peck of the largest of each kind, and lay them on the ground as close as they will lie (not heaped up) one beside another, which gives me the size of the pit where I keep them till the time of planting. I dig this pit 5 ft. deep, and lay the potatoes as close as above mentioned in the bottom of the pit, covering them with dry sand 4 in. thick, and then filling up the pit with earth, and treading it very firm to exclude the air. Let them remain in the pit till the middle of July, and then take them up, and pick out all the eyes except a good one in the middle of the potato. When planting, keep the eye uppermost. They will answer best in a south border that has a little slope, to throw off the rain. The soil should be pretty rich, but no dung should be added ; for I have found by experience that, if the soil is in good condition, it will grow potatoes large enough for the table, and they will have a better flavour than they would with dung. : Plant them 1 ft. from each other in the row, 3 ft. between the rows, and 2in. deep. Take great care in earthing up the stems afterwards, as they are more tender than if they were planted earlier. High winds are very injurious to them if not earthed up in due time. They require nothing more but to be covered with long litter at. the end of October, to preserve them from the frost. They are dug up for the table as wanted. 1 am, Sir, yours, &c. — Robert Arthur. Jardine Hall, Nov. 25. 1831. Carrots may be grown in Peat [not Heath Mould].— The garden of Sir John Hay, Bart., at King’s Meadows, Peeblesshire, is situated upon a subsoil of cankering gravel mixed with a substance having a near affinity to ironstone. This I detected by means of the water in the neighbourhood of the garden, which I tested with the tincture of galls, and other chemical reagents used in analysing chalybeate waters. Every test used showed the presence of iron in a high degree, by the black colour given to the water upon the addition of any of the tests. The soil is light and sandy, but produees vegetables to equal, if not excel, any in the county, carrots excepted. Mr. Sherare (the gardener ) has had the garden under his management for above thirty-one years; and during that period he has never obtained a crop of carrots worth any thing, although he had tried every means which his judgment could suggest, or others recommend. After so many disappoint- ments, he had for many years past considered his soil as incurable, and totally unfit for the cultivation of the carrot. Last autumn, being engaged in preparing a suitable soil for evergreens and American plants, the thought struck him that he might try the effects of peat in growing carrots. The peat used was that taken from what in Scotland is called a moss hag; that is, pure decayed vegetable matter, without any mixture of sand, &c. The ground was trenched about 2 ft. deep, with the addition of a little dung. The first frost was taken. ad- vantage of for the purpose of wheeling on the peat, which was laid regu- General Notices. 57 larly on about 8 in. thick, with a slight dusting of lime. In this state it lay till spring, exposed to the frost, when it was dug in. The seed was sown in the usual manner, and at the proper time for producing a main crop. No- thing out of the common routine of culture was given during the season. I have since received a letter from Mr. Sherare, im which he states his success to have been most complete. I have also received another letter from a man of much experience, an eyewitness of the experiment, who remarks, “ that not only is the crop better than any in the county, but greatly superior to any he ever saw in point of size, shape, and cleanness.” I am, Sir, yours, &c.— Ephebicus Horticultor. Bedford Nursery, Dec. 10. | 1831. AGRICULTURE. Ruta baga, or Yellow Swedish Turnip.—An excellent variety is now grow- ing on the farm of a friend of mine in this parish, which, in point of form and quality, and, I believe, of weight per acre, as far exceeds any thing of the kind I have ever seen before, as any cultivated vegetable exceeds the wild sorts. You will be somewhat interested in this matter when I tell you that the seed was procured from, and strongly recommended by your friend and con- stant reader Mr. George Fenn, nursery and seedsman, of Beccles. A part of the field had already been sown with Swedish turnip seed, raised from transplanted stock by a neighbouring farmer; but, as soon as Mr. Fenn’s seed arrived, the sowing of the first-mentioned seed was stopped, and the remainder of the field finished with his stock. There was no great deal of difference in the number of plants, except that Mr. Fenn’s came up quicker, and, though sown last, were first to the hoe. At the present time, a stranger, judging of them from the road, would see considerable difference between the two stocks ; and perhaps, from its greater rankness and heavier a top, give the preference to the old sort. (fig. 25.). But his opinion would change on closer examination: he would find. the plants of this stock, in- 58 General Notices. stead of appling (as we say) kindly, wasting their strength in endeavours to form, not a bulb, but an unsightly and unprofitable stalk, as shown in Jig. 25.) : in fact, bearing more the character of a cabbage than of a turnip, and very coarse and fibrous at the root. Such are what I call the old stock, the sort most commonly grown about here, and the seed of which was pro- duced from transplanted roots selected by a careful farmer. Now, what are Mr. Fenn’s? Certainly, the handsomest turnips of the sort I ever yet saw ; and if I said of any sort, I do not know I should be very wide of the mark. I have in the sketch ( fg. 26.) endeavoured to give an idea of their general gi AK Mt | WK al | form; and a comparison with jig. 25. will at once show their supe- riority. Here is no running to stalk, nothing of the mongrel about it; but a round handsome bulb, with a roughish yellow skin like a melon, and of a fine rich quality when cut into. An old labourer observed to me: — “ Lawk, Sir, what beauties them new tannups dew grow, suredie ! — why, they look more liker a melon than a tannup. They haen’t got no fifers [fibres] at the roots, like them t’other.” And the old man was right. “ Look at this picture and on that.” One is comparatively clean and free from fibres, whilst the other is like an ash tree in miniature. Of the comparative weight of the two crops I should give a decided preference to Mr. Fenn’s; but, even were the weight equal, I should certainly grow the latter on account of their superior quality. It may be said that Ihave caricatured my likenesses; at any rate, that I have selected the handsomest of one stock and the ugliest of the other ; but it is not so: from Mr. Fenn’s turnips I could have chosen thousands equally handsome ; from the others, thousands equally ugly. One of his plants, I must remark in conclusion, at this time measures 2 ft. 4in. round the bulb: nor has it yet attained its full size. They are a sight worth seeing, and are very dif- ferent from any thing of the kind I ever saw before. I give you my name, General Notices. 59 because I think anonymous accounts of these matters are very often, and perhaps very justly, open to suspicion; and because, as a disinterested person, I can say more of them than, perhaps, our friend Fenn would feel disposed to do. I am, Sir, yours, &c.—S. Taylor. Geldeston, near Beccles, Suffolk, Oct. 1. 1831. From some experiments lately made by Mr. Sinclair, the results of which are given in the Farmer’s Journal of Jan. 2. 1832, it appears that the Swedish turnip, unlike other turnips and the mangold wurzel, produces most saccharine matter when the roots are large: a powerful argument in favour of its culture in preference to the plants mentioned. In the same journal, notice is taken of the great success of Mr. G. Mills at Cranbrook, near Ilford, in procuring heavy crops from transplanted plants ; a practice long known in Scotland. Mr. Mills’s success, however, has been so great, that he is going to publish a book upon the subject. — Cond, ARCHITECTURE. Bridge-building. — It appears that the New London Bridge has sunk as much as 7 in. on the western side, and about 15 in. on the eastern side. Mr. Savage, an architect who has paid great attention to the subject of bridges, and who circulated a pamphlet in 1823 disapproving of the late Mr. Rennie’s plan, assigns, as a cause for the sinking, the use of too many piles under the piers. The foundation, he says, is a bed of dense clay, which is not mended, but injured, by piling. At the building of Waterloo Bridge, a bed of similar clay was wholly disturbed by piling, and, instead of being rendered more secure, was raised into a sort of puff paste; in consequence of which, the security of the bridge depends entirely on the piles acting as stilts. (See Mr. S.in Examiner, Dec. 25.1831.) We con- sider the reasoning of Mr. Savage as perfectly just, and in accordance with the arguments against the use of piles in Mr. Smeaton’s works, and with his practice in the case of the Perth and other bridges. The real truth we suspect to be, that the great success of the late Mr. Rennie in all his un- dertakings prevented any part of his practice from ever being questioned, except by a few men of science, like Mr. Savage; and these being generally poor, or young, or comparatively little known, their criticisms were never listened to. Nothing is so difficult, in this country, as for an architect or engineer who has nothing to recommend him but a profound knowledge of his subject to procure employment. An eminent man like the late Mr. Rennie not only carries every thing before him during his own life, but leaves a sort of hereditary influence to his family, which secures to them that employment which they would probably never obtain by merit. We could name architects and engineers of first-rate acquirements, who have scarcely any thing to do; and others of scarcely any mind, who are full of employment ; but time will remedy this evil, as well as many others. As the government, corporate bodies, and monopolists generally, get poorer, scientific men will have a better chance; for the force of money being wanting, the power of skill will be resorted to from necessity. We shall probably give Mr. Savage’s remarks on the design of the late Mr. Rennie in an early Number; in the mean time we would ask Mr. Sa- vage and other scientific engineers whether sinking a caisson, and loading it with three times the weight the pier was destined to bear, would not effect a foundation as good as one obtained by even the best mode of piling ? Suppose the loading to consist of regular layers of stone; and that, after all the sinking which triple the weight would produce had taken place, the courses of the loading were found not quite horizontal; the loading could then be taken down as low as the bed of the river, and the surface thus exposed be hewn to alevel. This done, the permanent pier, destined to sup- port the bridge, might be commenced in the usual manner. ‘This idea, we believe, is expressed in detail by Smeaton, or by Belidor or some other 60 General Notices. French author, and it is put in practice every day, on a small scale, and with different materials, by gardeners, who roll their gravel walks or ap- proach roads with rollers which press on every part of the surface with triple the effect that men, horses, and coaches can do. In consequence of this, the walks are smooth, and the approach roads without ruts. — Cond. Fire-proof Floors and Roofs. — Mr. Frost, of No. 6. Bankside, builder and cement manufacturer, has just described to us his mode of constructing floors to houses of hollow earthenware tubes and cement, combined in such a way as to form a floor as strong as one of timber, and much more imper- vious to heat, cold, sound, or smells. The hollow tubes are square in the section, and are made of brick earth, prepared in a very superior manner by machinery ; they are placed in strata in opposite directions, and cemented by a new and very superior cement of Mr. Frost’s invention. We have not time at present to enter into details; but it may suffice to say, that the floor or flat roof produced by Mr. Frost’s process is in effect one flag stone (only not a fifth part of the weight of solid stone) of a size sufficient for the space to be covered. The invention appears to us of immense importance with reference to fire-proof buildings ; and we shall have much to say on it in our next Number, and in our Encyclopedia of Cottage Architecture, now nearly ready for the press. In practice this mode of flooring and roofing will not be more expensive than the common mode, the material costing little, and the whole of the effect being the result of labour. Notwithstanding the im- mense importance of this invention, especially for small and middle-sized houses, we can foresee that it will be extremely slow of introduction, because it will cut deep into the trades of the timber merchant, carpenter, and plumber. It must, however, finally prevail. It is pleasing to think that, by Mr. Frost’s fire-proof houses, and Mr. Witty’s smoke-consuming fur- naces, London might become a city of flat roofs covered with gardens of ots. We sincerely wish some man of property would take Mr. Frost by the hand; he would be found a scientific builder of many years’ experience, and well acquainted with the principles of mechanics and chemistry, and their application to architecture. — Cond. Mr. Frost’s Cement is thus formed : — Chalk is ground very finely in a mill, and, as it is ground, mixed with water, which conveys its lighter particles to a reservoir. Clay is grinding at the same time by the same machinery, mixing with water, and conveying its lighter parts to the same reservoir. This com- bination of chalk and 30 per cent of clay is drained and left to evaporate to dryness. The stratum is then broken up, burnt in a kiln, and after being ground to powder, is put into casks and hard pressed. It will thus keep for any period, and may be sent to any distance. It is much cheaper than Roman cement; and has this great advantage for country use, that it re- quires no sand to be mixed with it. It appears to us that garden walls and cottages might be formed entirely of this cement, arrangements being adopted to have what is usually built solid made cellular, It would suit admirably for building houses in warm climates. [This and the preceding paragraph were in type in April last, before we left London on our tour, and have, unfortunately for Mr. Frost, stood over ever since. We hope, however, to make amends for the delay, by prevailing on some friend, who has the money to spare, to erect a fire-proof cottage on a piece of ground at Bayswater, which we shall point out. We hope some moneyed reader will volunteer his assistance on this occasion.] — Cond. Zinc, rolled into large plates, is now agood deal employed as a substitute for lead and slates, in the roofing of buildings, both in Britain and on the Continent. The great advantage of these plates of zinc is their lightness, being only about one sixth part of the weight of lead. They do not rust, which is another great advantage, and has led to the employment of zinc pipes both for cold and hot water. (Brewster's Journal.) No covering is better adapted for verandas and summer-houses. — Cond. General Notices. 4 61 Domestic Economy. Cheap Beer for Gardeners and their Workmen. — Sir, I send you some receipts for cheap beer, to which, I hope, you will give general publicity, as no set of persons will be more benefited by them than gardeners and their workmen. I observe, first, that West India molasses is the best for the purpose. It is a kind of treacle, which is sold as it comes from the West Indies, and is known by a gritty substance at the bottom of the cask,’ more or less like sand, which substance is, in truth, an imperfect sugar. Common treacle will do as well, if the quantity be a little increased, say one pound in six or seven; but the best article of all is the coarsest brown sugar you can get; it is better than the higher-priced for this purpose; and you may use one pound in six less of it than of the West India molasses. It is, however, dearer upon the whole, though still much cheaper than malt. In making beer from unmalted barley, it is necessary to take good care not to use the water too hot, as, if it be, the barley will set, that is, become pasty, and not allow the water to drain off. Be very particular about this ; a little oat chaff well mixed with the barley will go a great way to prevent this accident. 1. Raw Barley and Molasses. The use of raw grain with molasses, for making beer, is a most valuable discovery for the middle classes. Put a peck of barley or oats into an oven after the bread is drawn, or into a fryig-pan, and steam the moisture from them. Then grind or bruise the grain roughly (not fine), and pour on it 23 gallons of water, so hot as to pain the finger smartly. Mash it well, and let it stand three hours. Then draw it off, and pour on every two gallons nine of water rather hotter than the last; but not boiling (say not above 180°). Mash the liquor well, and let it stand two hours before you draw it off. Pour on afterwards 2 gal- lons of cold water; mash well, and draw off. You will have about 5 gal- lons. Mix 7 pounds of West India molasses in 5 gallons of water; mix it with the wort from the barley ; then add 4 oz. of hops, and boil one hour and a half. When cooled to blood-heat, add a teacupful of yeast; cover it with a sack, and let it ferment eighteen hours. In fourteen days it will be good sound fine beer, quite equal in strength to London porter or good ale. The 9 gallons of beer will cost :— 1 peck of barley, 1s. 3d.; 7 lbs. of molasses, Is. 6d. to 2s.; 4: 0z. of hops, 3d.: in all, 3s., or, at most, 3s. 6d. 2. Malt and Molasses. Pour 8 gallons of water at 175° on a bushel of - malt. Mash well; let it stand three hours; draw it off, and add 8 gallons more water at 196°. Mash, and let it stand two hours: add 8 gallons of cold water to the grain, and let it stand three hours and a half. Mix 28 pounds of West India molasses in 20 gallons of water, and boil the whole with 2 pounds of hops for two hours. When the liquor is cooled down to 85°, add half a pint of yeast; cover it with a sack, stir it well, and let it ferment twenty-four hours. In proper time you will have 36 gal- lons of good ale for — 1 bushel of malt, 9s.; 28]bs. of molasses, 6s. to 8s.; 2lbs. of hops, 2s.: in all, 17s., or, at most, 19s. 3. West India Molasses only. Mix 14 pounds of West India molasses with 11 gallons of water; boil it for two hours with 6 ounces of hops. Let it become quite cool; adda teacupful of yeast, stir it up, and cover it over with a sack, to keep it warm. Let. it ferment sixteen hours, put it into a cask, and keep it well filled up; bung it down in two days, and in seven days it will be fit to drink, and be stronger beer than London porter. This is the simplest of all; a washing copper and a tub, or even a large tea-kettle, only beimg requisite. Thus 9 gallons of beer can be made :— 14 lbs. of molasses, 3s., or, at most, 4s.; 6 oz. of hops, 44d.: in all, 3s. 44d., or, at most, 4s. 42d. A small quantity of copperas, or vitriol of iron, about as much as will lie on the point of a small knife, is in general use, to give beer a head, and make it drink pleasant and lively. It is not necessary, but it is not unwhole- some in any respect. — Y. A. B. 62 Foreign Notices : — France. Art. III. Foreign Notices. FRANCE. TuE Labouring Classes in the South of France. — Sir, Having read in the Gardener’s Magazine, with much satisfaction, your descriptions of the state of the peasantry and the working classes in various parts of the Continent of Europe which you have travelled over, I send you an extract from the letter of a highly gifted and intelligent lady, describing the present state of the peasantry in a part of France not much visited by English travellers. The account cannot fail to interest many of your readers. The writer of the letter is well qualified to form a correct estimate of the comparative comfort of the labouring classes in England and France, having for many years taken an active part in ameliorating the condition of the poor in her own neighbourhood, in one of the northern counties in England, where her husband is a most useful and benevolent magistrate. Yours, &c.—B. “ We have traversed the banks of the beautiful Loire, visited the various old towns of Orleans, Blois, Tours, Saumur, and Nantes, and are de- lighted with the scenes; but I must not be topographical, when you can have your map out in a minute, and the guide-book to tell you all about them. Nantes was to have been the end of our journey, but then we heard so much of the brilliant Bordeaux ; so on we came, and saw in the way the towns of Rochelle and Rochefort, besides passing through previously the interesting heroic La Vendée. Who can turn back at Bordeaux, when the Pyrenees are so near? so we took our first view of them at the pretty town of Auch, then to Tarbes, and the day before yesterday brought us to their very foot. “ ‘You, wrapt in your fog and your smoke, may wonder what an October course in the mountains can offer to attract ; but if you could only be here and see how perfect it is, the air clear and bright, and warm as in our finest August days, the trees still in leaf, and the tints of every colour, and the outline of the hills as finely marked as if a pair of scissors had cut it. We were out from eight till four yesterday, seeing cascades, and rocks, and picroresire hamlets. The heat was almost insupportable; and for myself, am sure this excursion is made as early as my constitution could- endure it. “ We have long ago left all the English, and are now really living in a foreign land: no more loges royales, no more Elysée dinners or Geniis soirées, as in our former visit to France; but in their place we have the people of the country always about us, with an opportunity of constantly speaking their language, and becoming acquainted with their habits, manners, and institutions. Cold must be that heart that can make the tour of France without a sympathy for the happiness that every where prevails. If you enter a cottage, and ask how the owner lives, the answer will probably be: —‘ Mademoiselle, nous sommes propriétaires ; nous ne sommes pas riches, mais nous sommes indépendans ; nous sommes contens.’* The beggars are very much diminished; and it is rare deed to see any one with that starved and wretched look so common in England. This is the fruit of their sudden leap towards liberty. Primogenitureship gone, wealth diffuses itself; hereditary honours abolished, there is hope for the lowest: and then the senate, how wisely it is arranged !—to sit with the peers you must be 40, with the commons 30; and even to vote, you must be 25. Soldiers are never flogged; and the punishment of death is scarcely ever inflicted. How far are we behind! It makes me sad to think of it.”’— ++. Haut Pyrenée, Bagnes de Bigorre, Oct. 29. 1831.” § * “We are proprietors; we are not rich; but we are independent; we are content.” § It will be seen by the date that this letter was written a little before Foreign Notices : — France. 63 Eower Normandy.— The situation of Bagnoles Wells reminded me much of Matlock, as I remember it 30 years ago; but it has the advan- tage, as a place of retirement, of having no public road passing through it, and on the whole it is on a less scale than Matlock, though the rock scenery is both bolder and finer. There is a beautiful trout stream running through the valley at Bagnoles, and abundance of fine growing timber trees situated at the bases of the rocks, and growing out of their crevices with great luxuriance. On the south, the Forest of Ardennes reaches to a level with most of the tops of the rocks; those on the north are surmounted by thriving plantations of larches, Norway spruces, Scotch pines, and cedars of Lebanon, in addition to the native woods. From the midst of these rises a belvidere, having a railed gallery nearly round it; from which a most striking, extensive, and yet rich and beauti- ful view is commanded of a part of the neighbouring forests, the rich vales at the foot of the hill, and an undulating well-timbered country, extending even into the departments of La Sarthe and Mayenne, bounded in the distance by the magnificent ranges of hills which cross those depart- ments. The Rhododéndron pénticum was in full blossom in the romantic valley of Bagnoles, in the middle of May, intermixed with most of our English indigenous and acclimated common shrubs and plants, which have for the most part been planted adjoining to, or in view from, the judiciously planned walks and rides; which add greatly to the interest of this solitary and singular, but beautiful, spot. At a distance of a quarter of a mile, an English kitchen-garden has been begun, with every prospect of considerable success; but the death of the proprie- tor has arrested its progress, and for a time injuriously affected the whole of the establishment of Bagnoles Wells. The building of the garden walls, which are at present completed only on the north and partly on the east side, is about to be resumed ; and it was intended to finish the gardener’s house adjoining in the course of the summer. The ground enclosed, which in quantity did not exceed a hectare of land*, is divided into exact squares by turfed walks, which are again as regularly subdivided into beds of different sizes, with their respective paths. The main walks, bordered by dwarf apple, pear, and other fruit trees, are of sufficient width to allow of acart passing along them, for the admission of which, space for an ample gateway is left at the end of one of them; and the south side of the north wall is well clothed with healthy- looking peach and nectarine trees. Though situated on high land, the garden is well sheltered; has a gentle slope towards the south, and a beautiful never-failing stream of water running through it in covered drains which supplies a circular basin in its centre. From the cause be- fore mentioned, which had paralysed every thing, the spring crops had the abolition of the hereditary peerage in France, Much has lately been said in the English papers, of the misery of the working classes in France; but these accounts apply only to the manufacturers, who, after all, I believe, are in a far better state than the manufacturers in Great Britain, the price of provisions being much lower. A few years since, I saw several thou- sands of the manufacturers of Lyons assembled in the fields on a jour de féte, and was highly pleased with the courteousness and kindness of their manners to each other; the general propriety of their behaviour forming a striking contrast to the rudeness, boisterous violence, and drunk- | enness, which would have been exhibited by the same number of manu- facturers in Lancashire, assembled on a holiday. — B. * A hectare of land is equal to somewhat more than 24 acres English statute measure. 64 Foreign Notices : — France. been omitted: or neglected, and the supplies for the establishment: were drawn from two gardens in the valley near the dwelling of the pro= prietress. Adjoining the garden is what is termed the park, which con- sists of a considerable tract of land with alleys planted in the formal French style, some of them very wide, and others double, with rows of trees between. A great part of this land has not been yet reclaimed ; whilst other parts are under cultivation, and mostly preparing for sarrasm’ [buckwheat], after potatoes or lentils. The elevated site of this spot, and the abundance of shade which must in a few years result from the growth of the trees, will render it, in spite of the neglect and want of taste con-- spicuous therein, a great acquisition, and source of pleasant exercise in the season, to the visiters of the baths, especially when the stones of which the roads are made, are broken small or well covered with gravel. The accommodation for visiters at the baths is extensive ; and the sleeping apartments, in the new and largest part, excellent. We were assured: that at times in the season there had been 100 bathers ina day. There are two series of baths, one for gentlemen and the other for ladies, with each its dressing recess, under the same roof; and across the yard is a large bath through which a strong stream of warm water is always running, with pipes for douches, &c., capable of accommodating many persons at one time. The natural temperature of the water is about 50° Fahrenheit ; but the private baths may be had of any warmth desired, by means of artificial heat. The Forest of Ardennes is the most considerable in the north-west part of France; its extent could not be ascertained when we were there, as it had never been measured, surveyors for that purpose being expected daily. Under the general head of this name, it is subdivided into very extensive portions, each of which has its appropriate and subor- dinate name, as the “ Forét de la Ferté Macé,” &c. From traversing it in various directions, and from the best information we could obtain of resident officers of the forest and other persons, it must comprise in the whole many thousand hectares of land: it is national property, and, like all the rest of the national forests in France, is at present wretchedly ma- naged. The outskirts of this forest, to the extent of six or eight thousand English acres, were like several other of the national forests, to be sold ; and in all probability at prices which would well repay a judicious and capitaled speculator. The timber consists chiefly of beech, oak, and ash ; the underwood of all these, with the alder, willow, birch, &c. In or near the centre of the forest, and on high ground, is a large circular space cleared of trees, from which diverge eleven spacious avenues or alleys, each of which leads to some town or village in its immediate neighbourhood. The views from this central point, called La belle Etoile, are very striking, and the display of such multitudes of magnificent trees grand and impres- sive in the extreme. On the northern borders of the forest ores of iron abound, which are fluxed with the charcoal made in the forest. It is doubtless in this part of the country that the chalybeate springs of Ba- gnoles originate, though at a distance of some miles; there is said to be a small portion of sulphur also detected on analysis of the water. The products of the soil, whether in the department of arboriculture or horti- culture, much resemble those of the south of England, as do the general features of the country those of some of its richest parts. The seasons also are like those of England; the winters probably severer, but drier; the springs undoubtedly earlier, though not so early as those of Touraine and Poitou. Meadow grass was being cut between Bagnoles and Couterne on the 28th of May, when we left the wells. The cottage and farm gardens in the neighbourhood of Bagnoles have nothing to distinguish them from the general run of such gardens in France, certainly not much to eulogise; but then, the greater number of occu- piers of land are proprietors also, and draw a great part of their vegetables, Foreign Notices : — France. 65 and, indeed, of their subsistence, from the produce of their little fields; most of which have in them a full proportion of apple trees. Of the sar- rasin, the most favourite object of cultivation, is made a great proportion of their bread; and, besides the potato, they have many sorts of the Bras- sica tribe, and haricots and other lentils in abundance. For the domestic employ of the women, as well as, for sale on a large scale, much flax and some hemp are sown ; both of which, in the month of May, promised abund- ant crops. This department has a large population, but it is not strikingly visible. There is very little of distress apparent amongst the lower classes, though it was said many young men had been allured to Paris by the offers of employ on the public works; and the expenses of the government were universally complained of. The fact is, France, like the rest of the world which has been aroused from its state of lethargy, and gotten rid of some of its ruinous and disgraceful ignorance, wants a cheap government. This Louis Philip promised them, under the term “ republican institutions,” when he was elevated to the throne in consequence of the revolution of July, 1830. This promise, however, he has never fulfilled; and France is consequently dissatisfied, and Louis Philip’s throne unstable. — John H. Moggridge. Woodfield, Nov., 1831. New Method of training Hops in the Vosges. — Mi. Denis, member of the Society of Agriculture of the Vosges, has published a treatise on the cul- tivation of hops; in which he recommends, from experience, the substi- tution of iron wires for poles, for the training of the plant. These wires, formed in pieces of about 3ft. in length, and joined together, so as to resemble a surveyor’s chain, are suspended horizontally between two oak posts, placed at the extremities of the lines of hops, and supported by wooden props at regular intervals. The hops are conducted by little rods to the iron chain, along which they are trained. M. Denis computes that, by his practice, about a fifth part of the original cost of poles is saved. (Bulletin des Sciences Agricoles.) We saw hops so trained on M. Denis’s farm at Roville in 1828. The crop had been good, but it did not appear to us any thing like the crops usually seen in England ; nor do we think this mode of training at all calculated to produce an equal quantity of sur- {. face with the mode by perpendicular poles. f= We would rather recommend a congeries of tr ec ag — Cond. j Paris, Dec. 20. 1831.— Our markets have been better supplied with both vegetables and fruit than I have known them for many years. The flowers have been also abundant. A few days ago, I saw in the Marché aux Fleurs the finest oleanders in bloom; a thing not common at this season; and various species of Amargllis, which, I was told, had not been forced. Many trees have ripened their seeds; such as the Arnona triloba L. [Asi- mina triloba Dunal] and Diospyros virginiana, in Cels’s nursery; and, what is more remarkable, Magnolia macrophylla, in the grounds of M. Soulange Bodin, at Fromont, This establishment is in a very flourishing state, and it is quite astonishing to see the numbers of rare or showy green-house plants (such as Azalea indica, Cunninghamia, Araucaria, &c.) which are _ raised there from cuttings of the tender points of the shoots, or by herb- aceous grafting of the same parts of the plants. As to camellias and oranges, they are raised in quantities beyond number; Caméllia muta- bilis, a seedling from the same double red as was raised in the Traversi Gar- Vou. VIII. — No. 36. F 66 Foreign Notices : — Germany. den at Desio, near Milan, by M. Jean Casoretti, in 1824, flowered with M. Soulange Bodin at Fromont, last spring, for the first time in France. But this, and other news of the kind, you will find in the Annales de Fro- mont ; of which M. Soulange Bodin informs me he sends you regularly a copy. Some curious discussions have lately been going on in the Academy of Sciences on the subject of vegetable physiology, which, I trust, will attract the attention of Mr. Lindley, as his doctrine (originated by De la Hire, and continued by Darwin, Du Thouars, and Poiteau), of every bud which produces a shoot sending down roots under the bark, &c., is opposed, and, as it is thought, proved to be false, by a committee of the Academy. Tam sorry to say, that, notwithstanding the abundant crops, there is a great - deal of distress at present prevailing in this country, not only among the manufacturing, but among the agricultural, class. The causes are various ; but the chief I believe to be discontent at the excessive amount of taxes, and especially at the income of the king, which is enormous; being, as a clever writer in one of the newspapers states, about 20 francs (16s. 8d. sterling) every minute; or, as much in ten minutes as a Lyons weaver gets in a year. — 7. EL. The Subscription Garden at Lisieux in Normandy. — The subscription garden at this place is very extensive, containing numerous shady walks, fine trees, beautiful shrubs and flowers, a variety of rural seats and alcoves, a retreat in the midst for meditation, and fishponds with gold and silver fish. At the entrance is a lawn, of an oblong form, the ground rising to the right, and in front. I think there are twenty-four subscribers. The people of Lisieux appear very fond of cultivating gardens; many of which contain choice and rare specimens of shrubs and flowers. -Among other shrubs, that called Barbe de Chévre(Spire‘a Ardncus) is much admired. A. M. Quesney has a very pretty garden, laid out with grottos, arbours, &c., and a room elegantly fitted up with yellow damask curtains, mirrors, sofa, an ornamented chimney-piece, an organ, books, chairs, &c. The walls are painted by himself, and represent scenes in Rome and Athens. I saw in this garden a great variety of flowers; particularly aloes and roses: among the latter were a dozen sorts of roses upon one stem. —J. M. June 10. 1831. GERMANY. Vienna.— The Tivol Garden at Vienna ( fig. 28.) was first opened in the spring of 1830. It is one of those public places of amusement which, within these few years, are become fashionable in some of the large towns on the Continent, as Paris, Naples, Milan, &c. It is situated on the east side of the garden of Schonbrunn, on an eminence called the Griinen- berg (Green Mountain), about two English miles from town, and in the fine evenings of summer is frequented by the most respectable society. The building is sufficiently spacious to contain from two to three thousand persons; and its appearance, as well as the internal arrangements, is par- ticularly striking and elegant. In the centre is a large saloon, with billiard tables, and at each end are various rooms for refreshments. The principal amusement of the place is riding on little carriages, each containing two persons, which are set off from an elevation of about 12 ft. at the one end of the building, and by their own weight are propelled along a descending undulated railway, which passes in an extended circle to the other ex- tremity, where the people alight, and either ascend the steps in the front to the refreshment rooms, or walk in the gardens. The carriages are then drawn under the buildmg up to the place from whence they set off, ready for a new course. The thunder-like noise occasioned by their continual passing along the wooden railway is agreeably softened by two bands of music, which play alternately. Those persons who do not choose to ride Foreign Notices : — Germany. 67 may enjoy the scene from a broad terrace which is over the colonnade, and which affords a fine view, not only of the garden, but also of the surround- ing country. On the other side of the building are winding walks, in the manner of a labyrinth, and the endeavours of some to extricate themselves Nae Li) ee SS afford much amusement to the spectators fromthe terrace. In the evening the whole place is brilliantly illuminated with various coloured lights, which have a most pleasing effect, and occasionally the amusements of the day are terminated with a display of fireworks.— C. R. Dec. 1831. Munich. — Some forcing-houses in the royal kitchen-gardens at Munich have been heated by hot water, on the level circulation principle, from the plan of the chief garden inspector, M. Sckell, who has published a plan of the houses heated, and of his apparatus, in a quarto pamphlet, now before us. He notices the mode of heating by the common German stove, to be seen in every inn and post-house north of the Rhine; by flues, as in hot- houses in England; by steam, which has been treated of by Seidl, Otto, and Schram, in the Berlin Horticultural Transactions for 1827; and, lastly, by hot water. He gives the history of this mode from facts which it is impossible he can have obtained any where else than from the Gardener’s Magazine, which we regularly send him in exchange for certain Munich publications; and yet he has not once mentioned that publication, or referred to any source from which he obtained his facts. We do not state this in the spirit of finding fault; because, as far at least as- gardening and agriculture are concerned, it seems to be the general practice of the German authors, and indeed of those of the Continent generally. Hence it is that articles and curious facts which have been stated for the first time in an English publication, are not unfrequently translated into some Continental publication, and again translated into English, and published as novelties, in some of our journals, with the name of the foreign paper appended as an authority. Almost every Literary Gazette and New Monthly Adagazine contains paragraphs of this description, not a few of which are from the Gardener’s Magazine. We may instance the article in our first Number, on washing salads in salt water, which was unnoticed by any paper in England, as far as we observed, till it was retranslated from the French ; after which, having appeared in the Literary Gazette, it made the tour of Europe and America. One of the latest Literary Gazettes which we have seen contains “ Growing potatoes in a cellar, from a German paper,” a mode which appeared several years since in our Encyclopedia of Garden- ing, 2d edit. p.594, 595. The same article was inserted in the Bulletin des Sciences Agricoles some months ago, and also in Moleon’s Receuil Industriel. We find no fault with any of the parties; we merely state the facts, to account ¥ 2 68 Foreign Notices : — Italy. to some of our readers for our not inserting all the scraps of this sort which they are good enough to copy out and send us from journals and periodicals. — Cond. ITALY. The Olive may be propagated not only by Novoli (see Vol. VII. p. 663.), but more expeditiously by Buds, Cuttings, and Grafts. — The cuttings are the most valuable, as they soonest produce fruit. They take root so readily, that sometimes a branch or even a trunk of an olive tree that has been broken off, if put into the earth to serve as a prop for a vine or any other tree, will grow, and, in three or four years, bear a tolerable crop of fruit. The best mode of propagation, however, is that adopted by the olive-growers in Tuscany, viz. to raise plants from seed; a method which invariably pro- duces the largest, strongest, and best young trees. In several parts of your Gardener’s Magazine, you have expressed an opinion that there is no essential difference between plants raised from seed and those propagated by cuttings or shoots. The result of some observations I have made upon the growth of the olive tree seems to contradict this opinion. An olive tree raised from seed throws out a leading or tap root, which penetrates deeply into the ground, while its stem ascends in a vertical direction. An olive tree propagated by cuttings or shoots has no leading root; but its other roots, springing only from the circumference of the sec- tion of the cuttings, eye, or shoot *, spread out near the surface, without ever striking deeply into the soil. This fact is so well known, that on the sides of the hill of Lario, where for ages past the olive tree has been cultivated, the peasants have a common proverb, “ That the roots of the olive tree love to hear the sound of the bells.” Hence arises a phenome- non which many of your worthy countrymen who have travelled near the Lake of Como may have observed, which is, that the olive trees that are planted upon the sides of those mountains, although originally placed in a vertical position, incline, by degrees, towards the horizon, until they become perpendicular to the side of the mountain; or, in other words, until they have acquired the same degree of inclination to the horizon as the declivity itself has. That such should be the case appears perfectly natural: since the roots of an olive tree raised from a cutting or shoot, growing very wide apart and always close to the surface of the soil, form a level parallel to its slope. According to this direction of the roots, the stem or trunk of the tree is forced to take one which may not lean upon any portion of the roots more than upon another; it must therefore be perpendicular to all, thence perpendicular to the sides of the hill. This inclination of the olive tree may appear, at first sight, to be extremely useful to the economical disposition of the ground, because, upon ground which in- clines towards the horizon, the more the trees upon it follow the direction of the slope, the greater will be the number of plants which the space can contain ; the number of trees planted vertically being to the number of those whose position is perpendicular to the slope of the hill as the cosine of the angle of inclination is to the radius. Nevertheless, this inclination of the olive tree is in truth one of the causes which conduce to its decay, as I have shown in a paper inserted in the Annali Universal di Agricoltura, vol. viii., entitled “ On the Decay of the Olive Trees which grow upon the Hill bordering the Lake of Como, the Appearance of the Musca ole, &c” This diversity of direction might * Not a single root can spring from the central and inferior portion of the section, where there is no liber, from which alone roots can be produced. Foreign Notices : — Italy. 69 by itself show that there exists some difference between seedling plants and those of the same species raised from cuttings or shoots. Further, a seed- ling olive tree never puts forth any suckers ; it flourishes upon the edges of mounds, upon rocks, and even upon the bare calcareous sandstone, be- cause its roots, penetrating amongst the crevices of the rocks, meet with nourishment to insure a vigorous vegetation; on the other hand, an olive tree raised from cuttings or shoots throws out from its roots a numerous progeny of suckers, which weaken the parent tree, and very often expose it to suffer from aridity, even when planted in a deep soil. There is also a difference with regard to the developement of the vital power, or mode of vegetation, between trees raised from seed and those pro- pagated by cuttings. I have selected the olive as an example, because I have it close at hand; but I have no doubt that the same doctrine would hold good with respect to other trees, and in England as well as Italy. Mr. Sweet, in his Botanical Cultivator, first edition, affirms that “ seed- lings are not so hardy, nor so easily preserved, as plants raised from cut- tings, and seldom make such good plants.” A little afterwards, he adds :— ** Plants raised from cuttings taken from flowering plants will flower quite young, which cannot be expected from a seedling.” But mark how I shall re- turn the argument : if they flower while yet quite young, it must make them small and weak, because (you have yourself referred to this in Vol. V.) the calling of the generative faculty precociously into action has a tendency to enfeeble the plant, and to prevent the due developement of its physical force: the plants, consequently, become weak ; and, being unable to resist the bad effects of the external action of the atmosphere, are more exposed to disease, and, of course, more likely to die. A stalk of oats or of mig- nonette may live four years, if the flower-stems are cut off as they appear. Your gardeners are aware that it is necessary to prevent the too early flowering and fructification of fruit trees, particularly peach trees, other- wise they are weakened, remain dwarfish, and perish young. Th: same thing happens to animals: a male and female silkworm (Phalz‘na mori), allowed to copulate, die in thirty-six hours; if kept apart, or the act of generation prevented, the two silkworms would live six days: although provided with organs, they never eat. I heard, some time since, that you wished to receive accounts relating to the science of horticulture in Italy. If you should think that I can be of any service to you in this matter, I shall be most happy to be placed on the list of your contributors, and I will send you, by the first opportunity an account of a very beautiful variety of the Pelargénium cordatum, with double flowers, lately obtained from seed by Sig. Giuseppe Manetti, in the imperial and royal gardens near Monza. Other accounts shall also be communicated to you upon the success obtained in the cultivation of the Nelimbium flavum and WN. speciosum, in the open air, in the north of Italy ; and of the naturalisation of the Agave americana on the rocks near the Lake of Como, where it grows spontaneously, and produces fruit within less than sixteen years. I will inform you, in short, of the present state of horticulture in Lombardy, and the immense improvements which it is capable of receiving in different parts of this kingdom. The progress in horticulture, to which your works have so greatly contributed, had encouraged me to undertake the publication of a journal, on the plan of your truly excellent Gardener’s Magazine, which I should have called Giornale dei Giardinieri e Registro degli Novanzamenti in Agricoltura (The Gardener’s Journal and Register of Agricultural Improvements). But, occupied in employment wholly foreign from any kind of literature, I have been obliged to postpone this undertaking. In the mean time, I have thought it useful to begin publishing a translation of your highly valuable Encyclopedia of Gardening and Encyclopedia of Plants ; because, when any improvements are to be effected in any art or science, it is requisite F 3 70 Foreign Notices: — North America. that the present state of that art or science should be previously ascer- tained, in order to make known the most effectual means of improvement. Nor would it be deemed probable, for instance, that the marshes of Colico, the Lakes of Canzo, of Pusiano, and of Oggiorno, all in Lombardy, could be rendered healthy and useful, besides being embellished by the intro- duction of the Schubértia disticha, the Cupréssus thydides, the Nyssa aquatica, and of the different kinds of nelumbiums, unless an authentic account should first be given of what they are; of the nature and proper- ties of the deciduous cypress, the white cedar, the tupelo, the yellow nelum- bium, and the N.specidsum. Nor could it be hoped that the cultivation of the pine-apple in the open air (l’ananasso all’ aria aperta), on the sides of the Lario Hills, would be attempted, without a previous knowledge of the nature of the soil, the degree of temperature, and the methods which are required for the growth of this plant. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — Luige Manetti. In the Office of the Imperial and Royal Gardens of Monza, Lom- bardy, Sept. 8. 1830. : Olive Trees from Seeds or from Cuttings essentially the same (extracted from the Conductor’s answer to Signor Manetti, dated Jan. 12. 1832). — With respect to the propagation of the olive, I allow that what you state is per- fectly natural and correct; but I still consider a plant, whether raised from a seed or a cutting, as essentially the same, on the following theory : — If you were to plant one of your olive trees, raised from cuttings, on a tolerably rich soul when young, and a few years afterwards, when the tree had firmly established itself, were to cut it dewn to the ground; and when it grew the following spring, were to leave only one of the numerous shoots which it would send out from the stool, you would find that this shoot would pro- duce as upright and handsome a tree as a seedling; and that, if the soil and subsoil permitted, it would send down a tap root as strong as that of a seedling, unless it had already a sufficiency of horizontal roots. This theory is perfectly consistent with the fact that a cuttimg or a layer will, under ordinary treatment, and especially in poor soils, assume the habit of a branch, rather than that of a young tree. I apprehend that you would find, if you were to plant seedling olive trees on the sides of the hill of Lario, that they would assume the same forms as those raised from cut- tings. The reason why the trunks of the olive trees on the declivities of Lario are perpendicular to the plane of that declivity, and not to the plane of the horizon, is to be found, in my opinion, in the nature or mode of growth of the tree itself, rather than in the manner in which it is propa- gated. I recollect seeing very few olive trees in either France or Italy, of any size, that stood perpendicularly, or had heads which could be called well balanced. . . . NORTH AMERICA. Parmentier’s Garden, near Brooklyn.—Sir, At the request of some of your readers in this country, I have compiled from different authorities, but chiefly from the American Farmer, an account of one of the first botanic gardens which has ever been established in this country, viz. that of Par- mentier, about two miles from Brooklyn, Long Island. The following map (fg. 29.) will serve to convey some idea of the general disposition of the whole; but I am confident that neither plan nor description can furnish any adequate idea of the particular beauties of the place. Its establish- ment may, indeed, be looked upon as an epoch in the history-of American horticulture ; as, though the various branches of that science were before understood and practised by most of our gardeners, it had not attained its full perfection until the arrival of M. Parmentier. The elegant villas and country residences of many of our citizens, together with our well-supplied markets and fruit-shops, afford abundant evidence that both the orna- ‘mental and useful branches of the art were successfully pursued among us; but the garden of M. Parmentier is, perhaps, the most striking in- Foreign Notices : — North America, aa . Vines, 10 squares, 263 kinds. . Rose trees, 2 squares, 250 kinds. . Ornamental trees, 7 squares. . Peach trees, 4 squares, 64 kinds. a, Dwelling-house. 3. 4. 2 Apple trees, 3 squares, 24 kinds. 7 8. 9. 6, Labourers’ dwellings,2. c, Toolandwork-house,2. d, Barn. e, Green-houses, 2. f; Hotbeds, 3. g, Plan for plants in summer, 2. h, Herbaceous plant gar- den. 2, Rustic arbour. k, French saloon. i, Nectarine and peach tree alley. m, Pear tree alley. n, Apple tree alley. o, Plum tree alley. p, Cherry tree alley. The other kinds of fruit are: — Nectarines, 15 kinds; apricots, 18 kinds; walnuts, chestnuts, filberts, and hazel nuts, each 20 kinds; quinces, 5 kinds; raspberries, 5 kinds; gooseberries,: 90 kinds; currants, 7 kinds; strawberries, 17 kinds. stance we have of all the different departments of gardening being com- bined extensively and with scientific skill. The rapidity with which this garden was formed added to its efiect. Nearly twenty-five acres of ground were originally enclosed; and the inhabitants of the vicinity beheld, with astonishment, in the short space of three years, one of the most stony, rugged, sterile pieces of ground on the whole island, which seemed to bid defiance to the labours of man, stored with the most luxuriant fruit, and blooming with the most beautiful flowers. The ground-plan of the garden, although without any remarkable nequa- lities, has yet some diversity of surface. The most elevated part, facing the south and south-west, is appropriated for the purpose of a vineyard; and several valuable varieties of the grape, foreign as well as indigenous, are there cultivated. The beds of the ornamental part compose broad belts laid out in a serpentine direction, and edged with thrift (Statice Armeria). These sections contain a mixture of plants and shrubs of both the Old and the New World. The several species of Robinia, the Philadélphus grandi- florus, the Halésia, the Ptélez, and many others conspicuous for their beauty, are interspersed and contrasted with the delicate Tamarix of Europe; the paper mulberry, now bearing its curious fruit; several species of shrubby willows and poplars ; the splendid Anchusa capénsis, with its azure blossoms ; the no less luxuriant Balsamina ; and thousands of others F 4 . Plum trees, 2 squares, 85 kinds. | . Pear trees, 4 squares, 190 kinds. . Cherry trees, 2 squares, 71 kinds. . Imported fruit trees, 5 squares. 10. Young vines, 5 squares. 11. Quince stocks, 1 square. 12. Monthly strawberries, 1 square. 13. Place for manure and weeds, 14. Jamaica turnpike. 15, Flatbush turnpike. Sere i 72 Foreign Notices: — North America. which we might mention, all disposed in the most artful manner, so as to heighten the effect, and yet to conceal too glaring an appearance of art. In the northern parts of the garden are nurseries, containing young plants of every kind of tree which is to be found in the beds. To the left of the garden, an avenue leads to a rustic arbour, in the grotesque style, constructed of the crooked limbs of trees in their rough state, covered with bark and moss: from the top of this arbour a view of the whole garden and the surrounding scenery is obtained; including Staten Island, the Bay, Governor’s Island, and the city of New York. At some distance from the rustic arbour is a plot of ground, called the French Saloon; a beautiful oval, skirted with privet (Ligistrum), kept dwarf to the height of 1 ft., and enclosing a solid mass of China monthly roses. The various kinds of fruit trees are carefully arranged, and the alleys leading to them are skirted with specimens of the different sorts in a bearing state, for bet- ter exhibition, and to furnish the necessary grafts for the establishment. The green-house department, although not so extensive as some other parts of the garden, contains many beautiful plants, exhibited with the same tasteful arrangement which characterises every part of M. Parmentier’s establishment ; and which displays itself even in the grouping of the pots, which are all arranged according to the colour and size of the flowers : thus showing the variety of ways in which a skilful gardener may distribute his materials to produce a picturesque effect. The manner of protecting the plants in this garden from the violence of the weather or the heat of the sun is quite novel in this part of America; canvass covers being so managed as to be rolled or unrolled with the greatest ease and despatch, by means of ropes and pulleys. The necessity of some such screen is quite obvious, when plants, and particularly tender exotics, are exposed to our excessive sun, and yet it is too generally neglected among our gardeners. In short, this establishment is well worthy of notice as one of the few examples in the neighbourhood of New York, of the art of laying out a garden so as to combine the principles of landscape-gardening with the conveniences of the nursery or orchard. —J.W.S. New York, September, 1829. The late André Parmentier and his son having both died within a short time of each other, the widow of the father has determined to sell the pro- perty ; and, as will be seen by our advertising sheet, it is now on sale. —Cond. Failroads, we observe, are increasing rapidly in America. There is one in progress between New York and Philadelphia, of about eighty miles ; another between Philadelphia and Columbia, of eighty-one miles; one between York Town (not far from Columbia) and Baltimore, of upwards of fifty miles. Thus New York, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, three of the most important towns in the United States, are brought within a few hours’ distance of each other respectively. The water communication between them has long been complete. Our much esteemed friend and correspond- ent Mr. R. C. Taylor, engineer at Philipsburg, has projected and circulated proposals for a railroad of thirty miles, from the Pennsylvania canal to the bitummous coal district of Philipsburg; the promised advantages of which are so great, that we have little doubt but it will be carried into execution. We observe, by the speech of President Jackson, delivered to Con- gress on Dec. 6., and printed in this day’s (Dec. 30.) Morning Chronicle, that the debt of the United States will be paid off in a vear; and that, consequently, there will afterwards be no employment for the income of that immense country but in public improvements. We wish we could im- press on Congress, and on the admirable person who now fills the chair of Washington, the great advantages that would result from preventing any roads being made in the United States of a greater slope than half an inch ina yard. We have elsewhere (Vol. VII. p. 520., and Morning Chronicle, Foreign Notices : — North America. vie} Dec. 31. 1831) hinted at some of the principal of these advantages ; and we entreat some of our American readers to call the attention of the American legislature to a subject of so much interest to a road and canal making nation. — Cond. Philipsburg, Centre County, Pennsylvania, United States, Aug.7. 1831. — Sir, . . . Placed, as I am, so remote from libraries, and from access to European periodical works, such publications as yours are more interesting to me now than ever. I have opened your Encyclopedias, with much interest, at the passages relating to North America, and can bear tes- timony to the general accuracy of your authorities. I am happy to report that the climate has agreed perfectly well with myself and family, and we have now run nearly the entire circle of the seasons. Not the slightest illness, not even a cold, has occurred, if I remember right, to any one of us since our arrival. Our position here, near the base of the western slope of the Alleghany mountain range, is one of the healthiest in the United States. The past season has been delightful in temperature; the thermometer averaging pro- bably about 70° in the day, and the nights have been cool and refreshing. We possess here an advantage somewhat remarkable, but which we prize highly: at about nine or ten o’clock every morning, a refreshing breeze springs up, and continues until three or four in the afternoon; and it is this, perhaps, which makes our situation so healthy, and enables us, without inconvenience, to bear the warmest days of summer. These delightful breezes appear to proceed from the north or north-west, and remind us of the sea breezes upon the never to be forgotten shores of dear old England, I shall not attempt, my dear Sir, to give you a lengthened description of the place which is likely to be the residence of myself and family for some years, at least, if we live. My brother has, probably, had opportunities of informing you generally on that point. I can now speak, from professional observation, that we are situated about 1350 ft. above the sea, and about 800 to 1000 ft. below the main ridge or crest of the Alleghany Mountains. There is one depression, or gap, as it is called, ten miles hence, which I have found, by levelling, to be only 600 ft. above us ; and which 600 ft.are distributed pretty gradually along the above base of ten miles. Conse- quently, you will observe that it is possible to descend the Alleghanies, westward, at a very small angle; not much more, indeed, than half a degree, which is not a very alarming inclination, even for a railroad. The eastern descent is more rapid; perhaps at three degrees for the first three miles, following the natural fall of the water-courses. I cannot but consider that our climate is materially influenced by our proximity to this vast mountain ridge, which is 1200 miles in length. I find very little variation in the barometer from 29in. A fall always precedes wind from the north-west. We never suffer much from the extreme heat of summer, nor are we mate- rially colder in winter than is observed in the cities on the Atlantic coasts. One of my friends here kept an accurate meteorological journal during many years, and I brought out with me two of Jones’s best mountain barometers, which I amuse myself by frequently referring to. Our prevailing winds are from the north-west ; which winds certainly bring a vast quantity of rain. The present summer has been more wet than has occurred in the memory of man. Rain has fallen, on an average, I should think, every alternate day ; yet the evaporation is so great, that but little inconvenience has arisen, except of late, when steady dry weather is needed for the hay and corn harvests, which occur at the same time. The farmers in the corn districts are beginning to complain of the damage done to their crops by the continued rains; and serious injury has been sustained from floods. This unusually moist state of the atmosphere has kept the air and the surface of the earth unusually cool. We have had but one week of really hot weather, and then not more than I have felt in England for much longer 74 Foreign Notices : — North America. periods ; particularly for nearly three months in 1826. To-day (Aug. 8.) the thermometer has not reached above 64° in the room in which I am now writing, and in the air it is below 60°, and we light our fires, bemg too cold to sit with our windows open; but this, I hope, will not continue. The nights are excessively cold, and the dews are heavy. I am assured that this is a very remarkable year; the winter was more severe than had occurred for thirty years preceding. When I entered my present dwelling-house last fall (October), I found a plot of ground of 40 or 50 perches, intended for a garden, but uncultivated, and only occupied by enormous thistles and docks, and abundance of wild sorrel. These it was my first business to destroy, by collecting them in a pile, and making a bonfire. There were many pine and hemlock stumps also sprinkled about, and which prevented any regular operations of culture. These, also, I, with great labour, got rid cf, for the most part. One sturdy stump kept me at work three days before I conquered him ; for he seemed to bid defiance to the axe and the fire, although the tree had been cut down thirty years before. I was a young beginner then, you will observe, in stump-moving; and, besides, I prided myself in the design of bringing this little plot into a good state without the aid of any body, and without its costing me acent for labour. Now and then my American neighbours would peep over the rails to see me digging and chopping, and would guess I was not used much to handling an axe. However, by perseverance, I got them all out, and rolled them clean off the premises, and there they all lie around me, monuments of my first year’s labour. These same stumps, by the way, are so full of turpentine, and are so hard and tough, that they seem to defy the power of time and the elements to decompose them: at all events, they have been known to continue firm and sound above a century. Having cleared off the surface weeds, I ploughed up the soil, having first spread upon it a thick covering of manure (a thing not used or valued much in this country, from the expense of carrying it on the land), and by this time the frosts began to set in, and I let it remain undisturbed till the frost broke up in March. As there was neither tree nor shrub for shelter or ornament around my house, and as the garden was much exposed to the heat of summer and the cold northern blasts of winter, I set to work to procure young trees from the woods ; amusing myself with selecting spe- cimens of every variety, within my reach, that the neighbouring forests pro- duce. You well know, my dear Sir, what a beautiful and rich series the American forests furnish. My industry was rewarded by a very interesting collection, serving the double purpose of a screen or shade, and of an em- bellishment. This moist season has been much in their favour, and they flou- rish well, and remind me of our English ornamental shrubberies. In this part of my labour, I must confess, I did not receive much encouragement. My neighbours viewed it quite as an act of supererogation : that an English- man should take the trouble to come and plant trees, when all other men em- ployed themselves to cut down, was beyond all comprehension ; was out of all custom and precedent, among a race whose habits and associations lead them to view as the greatest of natural beauties a naked “ clearing,” sur- rounded by a “ worm fence” of split rails. About the 8th of March, the snow disappeared; we once more saw the grass upon our “ Beaver Dam meadows,” and the ice broke up from the Moshannon creek at the bottom of my garden. In the woods, the snow lingered until the 1st of April: but at the earliest moment that I could make any impression upon the ground, I commenced my spring operations in the garden. You will smile at my narrative ; but I was determined to supply my family whelly with vegetables of my own raising, and I have the gratification now of seeing it effected, and producing enough, too, for the whole winter, I think. I first cut out my walks, and subdivided the ground into squares, then dug, and trenched, and cleared, and weeded, and took out every stone; made a map of my jand,and arranged my crops and courses, like other great farmers, in the Foreign Notices : — North America. 75 “ old country.” I had to send 240 miles for my first year’s stock of seeds but I shall now have a good supply for future wants, and enough of the useful products, such as potatoes, beet, parsneps, carrots, beans, celery, cab- bages, &c., for winter stock; all which will require some management to preserve from our intense frosts. The radishes here grown are as large almost as Swedish turnips, and, I think, are not so good as the kinds we used to buy at Covent Garden Market. The lettuces, also, are very inferior to those produced by your Bayswater neighbours. Of potatoes I have four sorts, of peas four kinds, and of beans three sorts. I have planted one bed of asparagus from young plants, and a bed of strawberries, besides borders of the indigenous strawberry, which grows in the meadows, and which is of fine flavour, and would improve much by cultivation. So ereat is the profusion of these strawberries, in certain spots, that one meadow of six acres, that I saw nineteen miles hence, in June, the owner told me, had furnished more than twenty bushels to his neighbours, besides his own family consumption. . The wild raspberry has furnished my wife with her stock for preserves; the huckleberry (Vaccinium) of our mountains, also, is a wholesome agreeable fruit for tarts and preserves, as is a small wild cherry (the crab cherry ), which is now ripe, in vast abundance, in our low woods. Cranberries (Oxycéccus macrocarpus) also occur, and the blackberry (Rubus) is particularly fine, and well worth preserving for family purposes. Imust not omit mentioning my little patch of corn or maize. This, being planted in rather a new soil, has thriven wonderfully ; the plants being now 9 ft. high. I planted them in rows, 6 ft. apart, and by threes, .. , 3 ft. or 4ft., asunder, m the row. This enables me to weed and stir the ground at intervals; and, not to lose room, I have transplanted a row of parsneps between each. The arrival of your Encyclopedia of Agriculture enables me to refer with pleasure to the notice of planting maize, which you have faithfully given. I cannot state what sort mine is; but it is very fine, and brought out of Kentucky by a friend. We are just beginning to eat the young ears green. You have noticed, I dare say, the singular appendages which occur at the bottom joints of this plant. Cobbett, in your quotation, calls them roots; but a slight observation shows that they do not perform such anoffice. I should rather call them props or crutches. They seldom appear whilst the corn is upright and uninjured ; but the mo- ment a plant is shaken down or partly blown on its side, these offsets protrude in the required direction, and support the stem firmly, till it regains its original vertical-position, and this, too, in a remarkably short space of time. I have some singular instances of this in my garden. I have now detailed to you my principal gardening operations, and I need scarcely add, that, with the necessary allowance for difference of climate and other circumstances, I have worked on the authority, in all cases, of your Encyclopedia of Gardening. I might have added that a few apple and peach trees, and plenty of currant trees, I put in last autumn, promise well. There is a vast variety of apples in Pennsylvania, as they are chiefly reared from the seed, without grafting, particularly on the ordinary farms in our district. Occasionally one meets with very fine kinds, whose names and quality are familiar to you. Hops are very fine and luxuriant. [do not know if they are indigenous; but they climb up and surround our buildings in a beautiful style. Our woods produce two or three kinds of grape vine; in particular the fox grape (Vitis vulpina), and the chicken grape. Both of these are capable of being made into wine as good as the best Rhenish. I have transplanted a couple of plants into my garden, for the sake of their shade. In a newly settled country like this, gardening, of course, is only a minor consideration, and is much neglected. It is chiefly amongst the Dutch and German settlers that vegetables are cultivated; and the overplus beyond their family wants is 76 Foreign Notices : — North America. occasionally offered for sale. I ought to mention that an English gentle- man, our principal proprietor here, possesses a garden equal to those at- tached to most seats in England, and as well attended to. Of the melon tribe, and similar plants, he rears an immense quantity for himself and friends, commencing in frames, as upon the English method, to guard against the later spring frosts. From my preceding letters you have no doubt derived some information as to the geological position of this district. Weare just within the verge of what is probably by far the most extensive coal formation in the world ; the qualities of which coal are as yet scarcely known on the eastern coast and in the great cities. Itis highly bituminous; more so, I conceive, from the experiments I have tried, than even the Northumberland coal; cer- tainly much more so than the best Welsh coal. From it I have produced tar and coke of superior quality. Neither of these manufactured sub- stances are known to the Americans. The tar of this country is produced from wood, like the Swedish, and the small quantity of coal tar consumed is imported from England, at a very high price. These circumstances, and the demand for similar articles hereabouts, have encouraged me to com- mence the manufactory of them; and I have purchased a convenient site for the undertaking, half a mile from my residence, and adjoining our turn- pike road to Erie. The vein I am now working is 45 ft. thick, of suitable quality for my purpose, and of itself will furnish a large extra-supply for sale. Ihave traced at least four or five other veins also in the same locality, which will yield me more than I can require or raise for the rest of my life. There is, beneath the coal, an extensive bed of fire clay, adapted to make the best quality of fire bricks, such as are now imported into the principal American sea-ports, from England, and sold wholesale at 32 to 35 dollars per thousand. I hope at last that I shall brmg my geological propensities to account; that they have been useful to me in the choice of this spot I at any rate have some satisfaction in believing. I turned to your Encyclopedia of Agriculture, to find something about coal, coke, and coal tar, and the apparatus requisite : but little is introduced on these points on the first, and nothing on the others; probably because you considered the subjects rather too remote from the other improvements of landed pro- perty, and not altogether belonging to an agricultural work. The great receptacle for iron ore, and the site of its conversion into pig-iron, is imme- diately east from this, a few miles over the Alleghany ridge. Thence it is brought hither and to various forges, to be converted into bars or manu- factured into various forms, or conveyed 150 miles farther west, as far as Pittsburg, increasing in value at every mile. The ore is of the hematitic kind, very rich, and the iron it yields is equal to the best Swedish. Char- coal alone is employed in its production and conversion. The quantity of wood consumed in converting a ton of iron is prodigious, and occasions a great destruction and consumption of timber: so much is this already felt, that even in this region of forests we hear and wonder about wood for charcoal becoming scarce and expensive in the neighbourhood of all the great iron-works. Sooner or later the English method cf employing coke from coal must be adopted, which will then occasion a material reduction in the cost of producing iren, and consequently effect another great advantage, by encouraging the native manufactures of the United States. We have at this village an extensive manufactory of screws, which far excel in work- manship any I ever saw in England. Of course those who are interested in American manufactures are anxious for all the protection against foreign competition and importation that our government can enforce. The tariff regulations have afforded a vast field for political discussions and disputes, which will perhaps terminate in the separation from the Union of one or two of the Southern States. Under all circumstances, J am decidedly of opinion that the true American policy is just that which she has been Foreign Notices : — Australia. lay forced to adopt. She is called upon to encourage her own internal trade, to stimulate her native industry, to promote public improvements, to rear up, under her patronage, an increasing community of enterprising manufac- turers, and to bring into exercise and usefulness the unbounded natural resources of this vast country; thus making herself in practice, as she is in theory and politics, independent of the rest of the world. But I must draw to a termination. .. . I remain, Sir, yours, &c. — R. C. Taylor. New York, October 6. 1831. — Sir, I dare say the few Alleghany acorns which I enclose are of very small value in your opinion ; yet as they grew upon a little estate which I now call my own, perhaps you may not think the worse of them, as coming from an absent friend. The small acorns are those of the white oak; the best of the tribe in the United States. The largest are from the red oak ; not so good in the quality of its tim- ber, and far less durable. There is also the black oak. With these are some haws from our common whitethorns [these seem to be of Cratee‘gus coccinea L.]; also some cones from the red or pitch pine [these are of the Pinus piingens Lamb.; specimens of the beautiful cones, and plants, of this species are rare in England], and the white pme of the Alleghanies [these are of Pinus Strobus]. 1 would have collected others more worthy your acceptance, but my time was too short to enable me to search. Ihave, with Mrs. Taylor, taken a journey altogether of 700 miles, at twenty-four hours’ notice. . . . Inhaste. Yours, &c.— R. C. Taylor. We have received the packet of seeds safe, and have shared them as follows : — In England, to Mr. Brooks of Flitwick and Mr. Donald of Wo- king; in Scotland, to the Rev. Mr. Carruthers of Dalbeattie, Sir William Jardine of Jardine Hall, and Mr. Gorrie of Annat Gardens; in Wales, to Cymro at Brecon; and, in Ireland, to Dr. Drummond of Belfast. — Cond. AUSTRALIA. Van Diemen’s Land. — We are indebted to some kind friend in Hobart Town for the Hobart Town Courier, which has been regularly sent us for some years. It is a newspaper which, for variety of subjects, orderly arrangement, accurate (and, when required, even elegant or eloquent) composition, printing, and paper, equals any, and surpasses most, of our provincial journals. The editor is evidently a man of far more general knowledge (particularly of natural history and of country matters) than is usually found in the editors of provincial papers in England ; and he brings that knowledge to bear in an earnest and effective manner on every subject which comes before him. On looking over the last packet sent us, containing the news up to the end of June last, the chief thing that strikes us is the increasing prosperity of the country, which is readily judged of by the number and kind of adver- tisements, the formation of roads, establishment of stage coaches, &c. As the great majority of the settlers are Scotch, one of our countrymen going there would find himself at home at once. A gardener, and also a clever builder, who could act as architect and surveyor, we are sure would do well. Designs for cottages and small villas, we are told, are much wanted ; and we have seventy already engraved, and as many more drawn and in progress, with a view chiefly to Australia and America. Respecting the products of the country, we find in a paper dated May 28., that the gum kino, a hitherto neglected item, is now being gathered from trees in abundance for the London market, as well as some other native gums. It appears that Dr. Murdoch and the editor of the Hobart Town Courier pointed out the value of these gums five years ago, and have since been calling attention to them from time to time. It must be highly grati- fying to these gentlemen to find that they have at last succeeded. The Gum Kino is an excellent tan, much superior to the best extract of wattle or other bark, and might be very profitably used as such, independ- 78 _ £oreign Notices : — Australia. ently of its great use in medicine. It may also be used as good and durable ink. As to the gum arabic, it is that which flows so abundantly from all the species of acacia or wattle trees in theisland. It is about one half the value of the other, but is used by manufacturers in vast quantities, as well as in medicine. Dr. Murdoch of Risdon has this year manufactured, from the produce of his garden there, a considerable quantity of excellent oil of lavender ; a profitable article of produce, which we are glad to hear that gentleman intends to cultivate largely for export to London, where it is of considerable value. (Hobart Town Courier, June 4. 1831.) The Fruit of Feuillea cordifolia [a plant which we could wish were introduced to Britain], Mr. E. Drapiez has ascertained, by numerous ex- periments, is a powerful antidote against vegetable poisons. He poisoned dogs with the Rhas Toxicodéndron (swamp sumach), hemlock, and nux vomica. All those that were left to the poisons died, but those to which the Feuillea was administered recovered completely, after a short illness. (Ibid., May 28. 1831.) Roads, we observe, are advertised as open to the public in different directions. We hope that in laying out the lines of these roads, the most scientific views of the subject of road-making have been acted upon. We would direct the attention of those concerned, and more particularly that of the editor of the Hobart Town Courier, to what we have said on the subject in our preceding volume ( Vol. VII. p. 520.), as also to what will be - found in this and our succeeding Number. (See, further, a letter on the subject in the Morning Chronicle of December 31. 1831.) With respect to Emigration, the editor observes that from the experience of a long residence in a populous part of England, previous to his settling in Australia, he can state that paupers, who have become so in the mother country from indolence and an indisposition to work, will continue so in the colony; but that industrious men will speedily, by the fruits of their labour, remunerate the expense that may have attended their passage. (Zéid., June 18. 1831.) = The Swan River Settlement, from all the accounts we have seen, appears to be a failure. “ Settlers are in general leaving their first locations, and removing farther into the country; in short, there is no soil until you get near Darling’s Range, when some good ground will be found on each bank of the Canning, on which Lieut. Bull grew good wheat, as well as Mr. Wright and Mr. Adams. The crops were very light, Lieut. Bull grow- ing about 5 bushels, Mr. Wright 10 bushels, and Mr. Adams 7 bushels to the acre. The land was certainly very sour, having never been exposed to the sun ; and the next season they expect a fair average crop. The expense of clearing, &c., was about 30/. the acre. . . . There have, however, been some good vegetables grown even in the sand, with the assistance of ma- nure, especially cabbages, turnips, potatoes, and radishes. There is a radish growing at Perth, ina shoemaker’s garden (reserved for seed), as thick as a stout man’s thigh, and from 10ft.to lift. high: in fact, the radish appears to take a different character in the deep and moist sands of Perth. (Jdid., Feb. 5. 1831.) Sydney. — In looking over the Sydney Gazettes, from May 5. to June 28. 1831, inclusive, we do not find much that can interest the gardening world in this country. The improvement of the government demesne or public park and promenade of Sydney, seems to have attracted the attention of government. Mention is made of the skill of the person who has planned the walks, carriage drives, and avenues, which-are said to form a delightful place of recreation for the citizens of Sydney. We wish our correspondent, Mr. Thompson, would send us such a sketch and description of this park as he furnished us with of Hyde Park, and his projected improvements in it, for our First Volume. A writer on the cultivation of the vine in Sydney states that blight, — after the fruit is set, may be prevented by ringing the old wood which sus- Domestic Notices :— England. 79 tains the young branch. He says that the great enemies to the culture of the vine in Australia are, “ the rime, or white frost, which settles on the young shoots in the first stage of their vegetation, and the light mists which shroud the valleys and the sides of the hills before sunrise. When the solar rays reach either of these phenomena, it becomes suddenly dissipated ; and the young shoots of the vme and their incipient blossoms are exposed to an instantaneous transition from extreme cold to extreme heat.” Frost he does not consider so great an enemy to the grape in Australia as the mists, which, during the spring months, hang like a fleecy mantle over the forests, and trail along the vales. He recommends selecting the steep sides of declivities for the sites of vineyards, and, at the same time, burning the forest for a considerable distance on each side of the space intended to be planted with vines. The advice, as far as it regards situation and free exposure, will apply to the planting of orchards in Britain. The New Zealand flax, which forms an important article of commerce between Sydney and New Zealand, is recommended as a very suitable plant for the moist lands of New Holland. More tobacco, it is stated, will soon be grown than is required for the consumption of the colony. We observe (Syd. Gaz., June 16.) an advertisement for a gardener, “an experienced person, qualified to take charge of a small garden.” This is a gratifying mark of prosperity. Art. IV. Domestic Notices. ENGLAND. THE Gardens of the Birmingham Workmen, which you noticed Vol. VII. p- 409., were so numerous twenty years ago, that the late rector, Mr. Cur- tis, complained to me that they covered 300 acres, and not one of them paid any tithes. He wished me, as the bailiff of the free school, to pay that part of the tithe which belonged to the school, but this I declined. — W,.W.C. Clevedon, near Bristol, November 18. 1831. New Botanic Garden at Bury St. Edmunds.— On passing through Bury I called to see the botanic garden, the new one I mean. It is certainly a most eligible spot for the purpose. The architectural remains, in connec- tion with their history and the uses which the buildings originally served, and the great variety of plants with which the garden will shortly be stored, cannot fail to make it very interesting. Mr. Hodson’s new house is in the garden, in a forward state, and is in very good keeping with the remains of the old buildings. Considerable progress has been made in removing the plants from the old garden; much, notwithstanding, remains to be done. Tradesfolk were busy in preparing to put up a cast- iron fence on each side of the magnificent abbey gate, which is to form the main entrance to the garden, and which so highly adorns that fine open area called the Angel Hill. When all is completed I have no doubt the garden will be an ornament to the town, and a credit to Mr. Hodson and the sub- scribers. — J. D., senior. The Choco Palms. — 1 hope soon to obtain plants of the famous Chon- taduro palm of the Choco, which has never yet been examined by bota- nists. Humboldt speaks thus of it in his enumeration of palms which he recommends to the attention of future travellers : — “‘ 3 Chocoenses, nem- pe, Chontaduro trunco aculeis horrido, ex fructibus succulentis escam omni- bus (preter unam Musam paradisiacam) prestantem largiens.’* Mr. * «Trunk spinose ; fruit succulent, and preferable to all succulent fruits, except that of the Musa paradisiaca.” 80 Domestic Notices : — England. Watts in his last letter, dated Carthagena, May J. 1830, says, “I have five healthy plants of the Chontaduro palm, which, if they continue to thrive, I intend sending you by the next packet.” I have not since heard from Mr. Watts; but, should the plants arrive in good condition, I have promised one to my old friends, Messrs. Loddiges, for their magnificent collection ; the other four are also engaged. The remaining two palms of Choco, noticed by Humboldt, are: — “ Palma di mil pesos, oleifera; et Tapara, nana, vix 2—3 pedalis, fructibus trilocularibus magnitudine cocoes, albumine eduli.”’* This last, as being particularly well suited by its dwarf size to our stoves, as well as being nondescript, I am also endea- vouring to procure. But there is a hardy palm growing along the Straits of Magellan, and spoken of in Viage al Estrecha de Magellanes, p. 316., which would, no doubt, answer in our pleasure-grounds, and deserves to be introduced, as might be easily done by some of our men of war or mer- chant ships coming from the west coast of America through those straits. Humboldt enquires respecting this palm, which also is a dwarf, “ Cujusnam familize planta tripedalis, frondibus pinnatis, Hispanis peregrinatoribus Palma Magellanica dicta, latitudine australis 53° proveniens, Pheenici dactyliferze similis ?”’ + By inserting this notice m your Magazine you may perhaps call the attention of some of our travelling botanists to this imper- fectly known plant, and secure its introduction as an embellishment to our English landscape. It could hardly fail to thrive in our southern coun- ties. —- IV. Hamilton. 15. Oxford Place, Plymouth, August 28. 1830. Exuberant Bloom af a Yucca glorivisa at Wankp Hall. — This plant had stood for some time in the gardens of Wanlip Hall, where it had attained considerable size. In 1827 it flowered for the first time, and, as the flower stem decayed, the old plant put forth four shoots, which have flou- rished exceedingly since that period, and the bloom I am about to describe is from one of them; leaving three others which, to all appearance, will flower another season. In the spring of this year I formed an artificial rockwork around it of granite, which appeared to suit it extremely well, and I have no doubt contributed to the extraordinary fine blooms it pro- duced. It began to flower on the 20th of July; the height of the flower stem was 5ft. 8in.; the side panicles were 36 in number, each panicle bearing on an average 24: blooms, making a total number of 864: flowers. A Céreus speciosissimus, which is now four years old, began to flower on the 30th of May, and produced, in succession, eleven very large and splen- did blossoms, nearly of a size. The dimensions were as follows: — The stems of the plant, which are four in number, measure 5 ft. in height ; the petals of the flowers were 3 in. in length; the circumference 1 ft. 6in. It had no other than green-house treatment, was planted in a wide-topped 32-sized pot, in a soil composed of sandy loam and lime rubbish in equal arts. Q Pelargonium zonale var. Blucheri succeeds better with me than any other of the scarlets. I planted one in the autumn im a wide-topped 48-sized pot, in a common green-house. The circumference of the leaves of the plant was 23in.; the flower stem 1] ft. in length, with an umbel of flowers 40 in number, of which 32 were expanded at one time; the petals averaged in length 3 in. — Wiliam Matthews. Wanhp Gardens, Leicestershire, Oc- tober 31. 1831. * “© From 2 to 3 ft. in height, fruit three-celled, about the size of the cocoa, albumen eatable.” - + “ To what family belongs a plant 3 ft. high, with pinnate leaves, called Palma Magellanica by Spanish travellers? It is found in lat. 53° south, and resembles the Phoe‘nix dactylifera.” EIints for Improvements. 81 Nertne crispa (as it is here called, although it is probably N. humilis of Curtis’s Bot. Mag.) and N. undulata live and flower at the foot of an old wall here, with no protection but the wall : both are very elegant. — Henry Turner. Botanic Garden, Bury St. Edmunds, October 11.1831. Produce of a Cucumber Plant near Rochdale. — Sir, The seed of Bloor’s white spine, of last year’s growth, was sown on the 30th of May, in a frame already at work, heated by steam passing through stones; and the young plant growing very strong, those cucumber plants already in the frame were cut out, as it required room; the old mould unavoidably remaining unchanged. Not being an experienced grower, I think some of them are large, considering this disadvantage. No. 9., in particular, was superior to any thing known to be grown in this neighbourhood. Inches. Inches. Ibs. 072. No. 1. Length 21 Girth 84 Weight 3 6 Cut, Aug. 18 2. - 223 - 104 - 5 6 - Sept. 24 3. - 24 - 93 - 4 8 4. - 19 - 83 - 214 - Oct. 4 5. - 212 - cz - 3 9 - 8 6. - 172 - 81 - 2 83 - 16 To - 183 - 18 - 2 - 20 8. - 192 - 2 - 2 8 - 27 9. - 284 - 103 - GOO ner. 29 10. - 182 - 9 - Bll Nov. 12 Total 36 10 This plant was under the care of Mr. James Lee, at Harehill Mill, near Rochdale, who is no gardener ; and this is his first attempt. The girth is the average taken at about 22 in. from each end, and the middle. No. 9. varied less than half an inch at any intermediate place, and several of the others are equally well proportioned. I remain, yours, &c. —J. S. Near Rochdale, November 14. 1831. IRELAND. Armagh Palace Gardens.— The chrysanthemums have been finer this season than I ever remember; some flowers measured 5 in. in diameter in the green-house ; and even now, though so near Christmas, they are beau- tifully in flower in the open borders. Carnations and picotees are at this moment also in flower ; not a straggling plant here and there, but by hun- dreds. Indeed, such has been the mildness of the season, that queen stocks, Gilia capitata, Anagallis grandiflora, and Medicago arborea, are like- wise finely in flower; the last in perfect beauty. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — J. Elles. December 23. 1831. The hanging Gardens of Limerick are a great curiosity. An acre of ground is covered with arches of various heights; the highest 40 and the lowest 25 ft. Over these arches is placed a layer of earth, of 5 ft. thick, and planted with choice fruit trees and flowers. The arches are employed as cellars for spirituous liquors, and will hold nearly 2000 hogsheads. The work was commenced in 1808, and was completed in about five or six years. The expense of the whole undertaking was nearly 15,000/.— John Ryan. Newry, September, 1830. Art. V. Hints for Improvements. PrizEs to young Gardeners by Horticultural Socicties.-- Sir, In your Volume V. p. 713., you have given some hints.to Provincial Horticul- Vou. VIII.—No. 36. G 82 FIints for Improvements. tural Societies, on the subject of offering prizes. Allow me to add to these hints, the idea of stimulating young men to self-improvement. For instance, there are, in the neighbourhood of Liverpool, six public nurseries, several market-gardens, and a great number of private gentlemen’s gardens, in which are a number of young men or boys, from the age of 14 to 20 and. upwards, who are placed there for improvement. A number of these, I am led to think, require some stimulus to induce them to study diligently, and acquire the practice of their profession in a superior manner. Perhaps some prizes of the following description might be offered. At the beginning of the season for botanical excursions ; say, for.the first hun- dred dried specimens of British plants, named and arranged according to the Natural System, so much, or such an article. At the end of the bo- tanising season, or in November; for the greatest number of specimens of British plants, dried, named, and arranged in the course of the year. To the best namer of plants, as they stand in the Horticultural Society’s show- room for inspection, either at one meeting or several meetings. Fer the most rare British plant discovered during the season, with its name, de- scription, &c. For the best self-educated individual in writing, arithmetic, drawing, measuring, &c., specimens to be signed by his master, or some other respectable person. For the best design for laying out a garden or pleasure-ground ; the competitors to be furnished with a ground plan, ex- hibiting the outline and the variations of the surface, or to have a piece of ground pointed out to them, or described. The prizes might be catalogues of plants, or other books, cases of instruments, boxes of colours, mea- suring lines, &c. I shall be happy if these hints lead some more com- petent person to take the subject into consideration and improve on it ; and, I remain, Sir, &c. — James Rollings. Liverpool, Jan. 7. 1830. Horticultural Societies in the Suburbs of London. — Sir, Horticulture is perhaps one of the most interesting and innocent sources of amusement that can be fixed upon, to fill up those hours which most people feel it necessary to devote to recreation, with a view of diverting the mind from too intense application, either to business or study. From local circum- stances, very many are precluded from the pleasure of a garden; but, where even a small one is attached to a house, if the air is tolerably pure, any one, with a little taste, may find ample amusement in the cultivation of it. It is, no doubt, agreat misfortune, that builders are not more alive to the advantages, or, perhaps I should say, that persons are not more sensible of the pleasure, of a garden; we should then have, instead of filthy streets, cottages detached, with a garden to each, sufficient to employ and give in- terest to the tenants. Could, therefore, means be devised to introduce a more general taste for gardening, particularly in the vicinity of the me- tropolis, it would, no doubt, contribute greatly to the health and happiness of many individuals. To forward this taste, and to render the pursuit more interesting, nothing, I conceive, has so great a tendency as the formation of local horticultural societies. In the neighbourhood of the capital, the Horticultural Society unfortunately acts as a bar to the establishment of local ones. Most of the principal residents having a taste for plants, &c., — are members, and therefore do not consider it necessary to patronise the formation of societies in their immediate parishes. I am not acquainted with the regulations of the London Society, and therefore am not aware how far it is open for the reception of plants, fruits, &c., for exhibition, from persons not being members: but however liberal the rules may be, in allowimg the public to forward their finer specimens for view, and bestow- ing rewards where any great merit is displayed; yet it must be obvious, how very few, from distance and the inconvenience of sending, could avail themselves of the privilege. May I, therefore, solicit your indul- gence for a page in your Magazine, to suggest to those gentlemen who Retrospective Criticism. 83 have influence, and who live in the vicinity of the metropolis, the pro- priety of endeavouring to form horticultural societies, on a plan similar to those in the country ; principally with a view of having a certaim number of exhibitions during the year ; to distribute rewards; and, above all, where the funds will admit, to establish garden libraries. I reside in the neich- bourhood of Clapham ; in this and the adjoining parishes there are numbers of wealthy and estimable characters, always ready to contribute liberally to relieve the wants of their less fortunate neighbours, and to forward any object likely to be productive of good to them; now, I take the liberty of calling upon them, to endeavour to found a society of the above descrip- tion; as I feel satisfied it will be attended with very beneficial effects. At present, I am afraid, there is not much taste in Clapham or the adjoining parishes for horticulture ; and I believe there are very few, even of the higher or wealthier inhabitants, that have any fondness for plants; amongst the middling classes, it is limited to a few horticulturists. Now, I do not hesitate to predict, that, should a society be formed in Clapham, Stockwell, &c., we should soon have a great accession to the number, anxious to pro- mote this delightful art; and I should expect to find, in a very short time, that the accounts of the meetings would form a very prominent part of your Gardener’s Magazine. Fully relying, therefore, that some spirited indi- viduals will take up this matter, I have only to assure you that I am, with. great truth, yours, very respectfully,— H. London, July 22. 1831. We have seen a proposal for a Gardeners’ Joint Stock Annuity Fund, and also for a Metropolitan Garden Society and Benevolent Fund, the profits of which are proposed to go in aid of the Annuity Fund. We un- derstand these proposals will soon be submitted to the profession in and about London. ‘They appear to us well calculated to benefit gardeners, by teaching them how to take care of themselves, and enabling them to do so at the same time. We have no faith in charitable institutions, but a great deal in labour. “ God helps them that help themselves.” — Cond. Art. VI. Retrospective Criticism. CorrECTIONS for the Encyclopedia of Gardening. — Sir, As you have expressed yourself anxious to receive hints for the improvement of your Encyclopedia of Gardening, I beg to submit to your discretion two or three, which have occurred to me, as I looked over the book in ques- tion passim, without, however, searching for any thing of the kind. First, in your statistic tables of the counties, you entirely omit, in this county (Dublin), any mention of Counsellor West’s magnificent gardens and well laid out grounds on Mount Anvil Hill, within about 44 miles of this city ; whereas, you blazon forth Mr. Bourne’s, of Terenure, which are in every respect inferior to the former. The fact is, Mr. Bourne’s grounds are ill arranged ad origine, and worse kept, although much money is spent on them; but Counsellor West’s place is maintained at an expense and with a care wholly unequalled in this country. Lest you should not have any description of this place, I shall give you an outline. The garden consists of about 4 acres, divided into three portions by walls running east and west. It is on a gentle slope to the south. The upper quarter, for the choicer fruits, contains a magnificent range of stoves, metallic curvilinear-roofed, and 120 ft. by 20 and 14: high, containing a splendid collection of vines in a front border 40 ft. wide; pines; and a large collection of tropical fruits, all fine specimens: the whole finished in the most exquisite style ; walls painted m oils inside ; ) wo 84 Retrospective Criticism. hot-water pipes to all. Next division, the finer sorts of vegetables, and fruits. Third division, pine pits on Weston’s plan; melon and cucumber yard, vegetables, &c.; asparagus is in great perfection, on a bed drained 5 ft. deep, with granite boulder stones. Below this last division is an ex- tensive and well kept nursery for trees and shrubs. The garden is entered from the house side, first through a fine shrubbery walk of great length and beauty, and then through a large piece of ground imtended solely for flower ground, commanding one of the finest views of the Wicklow Mountains conceivable. This piece of ground is intended to contain a large and splendid conservatory and orangery. Its western boundary is formed by the east wall of the garden, which is about 200 yds. long, and through its whole length covered with a rare and thriving collection of climbing and creeping plants, and all the most valuable tender shrubs. The present mansion, already condemned, is not handsome, but commands a view of Dublin Bay of the most magnificent description; more like an Italian than an Irish scene. Mount Anvil Hillis the name of the place. If you wish for more information about it, send me word and you shall have it. In your information about making artificial ponds or aquariums, I think you area little deficient. In gardens where worms are plentiful, an aquarium cannot be formed merely of clay; as the worms all collect to the water, and pierce holes in the clay, and thus let the water off. This I found by sad experience, only last summer; and in a loamy, sandy, porous garden soil, abounding in worms, I made an aquarium, which, has ever since re- mained perfectly staunch, and in which I have got all the Ivish aquatics thriving. The aquarium (jig. 30.) is an ellipse of 30 ft. by 15. a@a@ are Ds ip the sections of a 9-inch brick wall, surrounding the whole; between which and the outside 4-inch walls (6 6) is a space (c c) of 4 in. for holding pud- dle and salt to keep the worms off. The bottom is composed of flags jointed with Parker’s cement, and laid on a bed of well beaten mud Or puddle, so dense and dry as not to yield readily to the foot: it is con- tinuous with the puddle of the walls, and under it the ground is well salted. The pond is divided by an arched wall (the convex curve of the arch against the shallower side) into two parts of greater and less depth. My pond is in my rockworks, where I have a large circular one also, and is edged with a border of rockwork, growing such plants as like much moisture. It is supplied by a source which bursts up through the rocks at one end, and trickles into the pond. It looks remarkably pretty, and answers well. I think this plan admirably adapted for making small ponds in all dressed grounds, pastures, &c. Amongst the exotic fruits, you do not mention the winter cherry (Physalis peruviana), which I think is worth a place; the flavour of the fruit is pleasant, and I believe it is wholesome, although it belongs to a suspicious family. : In your chapters about gates, fences, &c., you might take notice of Mr. Telford’s gates ofiron (fig. 31.) on the Holyhead road, made of flat bar Retrospective Criticism. 85 31 iron; a rivet at every intersection. er es You will see that a better mechanical porengauent of forces could not be made. I think your observations on ano- malies of horticulture, and keeping ‘accounts without writing, are very trivial, and ought to be omitted. I jam, Sir, yours, &c.— Robert Mallet. Ryder Row, Dublin, Feb. 9. 1831. ‘Corrections for the Encyclopedia of Plants. — Sir, In the New York Farmer, vol. ii. p. 149., and in vol. iv. p.59., are a number of corrections. The writer dwells, and justly, upon the apparently sneering notice taken of “a Mr. James Logan, said to have been the author of some experiments upon the generation of plants.” As I do not suppose you were the author of that remark, I cannot help saying that it is either a mark of the igno- rance or the superciliousness of whoever made it, for either of which he deserves censure. The work of Logan was written while the author was on his travels in Europe, in Latin, and translated by the celebrated Dr. John Fothergill, and it does honour to Logan, who was chief justice of Pennsylvania, and one of the most learned men of the day.—J. Mease. Philadelphia, May 16. 1831. Gymnocladus canadénsis, the Kentucky coffee-tree, which in your Encyclopedia of Plants, p. 842., you denominate a “tree or shrub,” and describe as “twining about the neighbouring trees and shrubs;” is no shrub; neither does it twine at all. It is a perfectly straight tree, 80 ft. high, and abounds in the Western States. As Michaux has described it fully, it is singular that any mistake was made about it. Its seeds are used for coffee. —J. MM. Philadelphia, March 6. 1831 Irish Cottages, §c. — Sir, Mr. Howden, in the article on the mud cabins in Ireland (Vol. VI. p. 657.), has very unjustly indulged his wit at the expense of my country and countrymen. I believe 1 am correct when I state that his services at Lord Doneraile’s “ did but render very indifferent satisfaction.’ Ifhe had not such a good cottage to live in, therefore, as the one he now occupies, it is probable his employer did not think him entitled to any thing better. — Thos. Small. Near the Church, Bexley, Kent, Nov. 29. 1831. Giving the Credit to Gardeners which is due to their Employers. — In several of your Numbers, in alluding to horticultural improvements that have been effected or were in contemplation, the gardener has had the merit of design and execution, and the owner is confined to the mere duty of paying for them. Throughout your pages I could quote a thousand instances where the master and the servant are so confounded (except possibly, to local knowledge), that something like Lear’s enquiry as to *‘ which is the justice, and which the thief,” is necessary to determine the distinction. I will, however, content myself, for the present, in referring to your last Number (Vol. VII. p. 540.) : — “ We havestrongly recommended Mr. Dodd, gardener to Sir James Graham at Netherby, to adopt metallic curvilinear houses and hot water in the erections which are about to be made in the kitchen-garden there, and we trust that he will not forget our recommendation.” In thus inviting the servant to adopt a particular and extensive arrangement, without the slightest even complimentary reference to his master, are you not injuring him, by embodying against him that natural offence which wounded pride must ever feel at unauthorised assumption? If Sir James Graham could for an instant consider that his gardener encouraged or participated in your attempt to raise him above his station, I think the baronet would be deserving the condition to which you (perhaps inadvertently) have sought to lower him, if he did not allow Mr. Dodd to seek for another site than Netherby for the adoption of G3 86 Retrospective Criticism. your suggestions. In a previous Number (Vol. V. p. 510.), in report- ing the splendid improvements in progress at Syon House, you ascribed all praise, not to the worthy and talented nobleman who planned and paid for them, but to the agent charged with the execution of his orders. Your commendation would probably have cost the gardener his place, could His Grace have condescended to a rivalry in your commendation. T am, Sir, yours, &c.— A Friend. Dec. 1831. The leathern Wallet and the leathern Bearing-Straps (Vol. VII. p. 613.), are, surely, not worth engraving; they are quite common about this town, and, I think I may say, throughout the east of England. — 7. S. Bury St. Hdmunds, Nov. 1831. The wallet is scarcely known in Scotland, as Mr. Hislop, who lent us both the wallet and strap, can attest. If it were better known in that country, there would not be so many blue aprons torn to pieces. We con- sider articles of this sort, calculated for universal adoption, when they are not universally known, as among the most useful articles that we can figure. — Cond. Supporting newly transplanted Trees by pegging down their Roots. — I beg to inform your very intelligent but sensitive correspondent, Mr. Thom (see Vol. VII. p.445.), that I put in my claim to a new method of sup- porting recently planted large trees; though I hitherto thought it of very little consequence, having found it so well known wherever I have operated, that I fancied every one knew it. I have practised it for upwards of thirty years without a failure. The method is, to drive down strong hooked pegs to secure the main roots. They must be of some kind of hard wood, not apt to split. I have generally used oak or elm; but various other woods will answer. Each large root will require three or more pegs, driven firmly into the hard subsoil, and, to prevent friction, there should be a considerable quantity of moss put between the root and the hook. When the hole is filled in, the hooks are completely covered, and they generally last as long as they are necessary for supporting the tree. The heads of the pegs should be left, at first, of considerable length; but when driven home, they should be sawed off a few inches above the hooks. The pegs will often require to be 3 ft. long, and 3 or 4in. in diameter at the head. In most cases, it will be necessary to make holes for the admission of the wooden pegs, by the previous insertion of an iron one. I hope Sir Henry Steuart will approve of my method; and I trust that your intelligent correspondent, Mr. E. Murphy, will spread this practice, as well as many other useful ones. Judging from his judicious practical observations, I think there is no man more calculated to raise the science of arboriculture from the low state in which it has hitherto been in Ireland. I fear, how- ever, that he will fail, as 1 have often done, to induce proprietors to thin their plantations. Many in the county of Cork have got into the wretched method of pruning their forest trees, especially oaks, like fishing-rods ; and neglecting to thin their plantations till the trees become so weak as to be unable to hold up their heads; and, consequently, when thinned, they require many years before they are able to bear exposure to the weather. Iam, Sir, yours, &c.— H. Dutton. Lombard House, Middleton, Nov. 1. 1831. The Edges of Walks, Dotting, Grouping, §c.— Sir, I have been much gratified with your remarks (Vol. VII. p. 404, 546.) on the depth of walks, and on the nakedness and spade marks often visible on their edges. I have long been convinced that this prevalent negligence and want of finish have a very bad effect ; and those borders which I have laid for some years past are much lower than the usual practice allows. I never had the resolution, however, to alter the rest, till I found my own conviction confirmed by your excellent remarks. I also agree with you in your views respecting the prevailing mode of placing groups on lawns (Vol. VII. p. 401. Retrospective Criticism. 87 fig. 72.) ; but I would like to ask whether it is in gcod taste, to preserve an equal breadth of grass on each side of the walk, as you seem to suggest ? [Not more than is necessary to maintain the principle of a whole, or of every part fitting into its precise situation.] It appears to me that there are two great errors in the laying out of walks in gardens and shrubberies. The first is, that the borders are generally edged with a stiff parallel stripe of grass, which cannot fail to be tiresome to the eye. Now, it is evident, that if nature (the best guide) is to be followed, the borders of walks should be of unequal breadth, and varied; otherwise, the uniformity, which in its due proportion is pleasing, becomes very tiresome. The second error is, that walks and roads are very frequently twisted fantastically through the grounds, without regard to taste and propriety ; and in viola- tion of a very obvious rule, viz., that if any change be made in the direc- tion of a road from the nearest line, for the sake of leading to some view, or of taking in some agreeable undulation in the ground, it is necessary to have an apparent or real cause to account for every turn which the path makes in its course. To effect thispurpose, plants, raised or lowered ground, rock, wood, water, or any thing that will harmonise with the situation, may be employed. That you may understand my meaning better, | subjoin a sketch. (fig. 32.) Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — 7. D, Broughton Hall Gardens, Nov, 26, 1831. The principle of a sufficient reason ought never to be lost sight of in laying out walks and roads; that is, no deviation from a straight line should ever appear, for which a reason is not given in the position of the ground, trees, or other accompanying objects. (Encyclopedia of Gardening, _ 2d edit. s. 7243. The Practice of Dotting, which you have so very properly condemned (Vol. VII. p.403.), is not so much to be laid to the charge of gardeners, as to gentlemen themselves, or to their land-stewards or bailiffs. There is not one gardener in a hundred that is ever allowed to have any thing to do with the single trees in the park or lawns of the residences where he is gardener. ‘This, and this alone, is the reason why dotting prevails instead of grouping, and why our parks are spotted like a leopard, or checkered like a draught-board, instead of presenting marked features, breadth, masses, and repose. — A Single Tree. Bewdley, Nov. 30. 1831. Certain Plants alleged to be hardy in Sweet's British Flower-Garden. — It is to be regretted that E. (Vol. VII. p. 709.) has not enumerated more of “the very considerable number of plants ” which he has lost from having placed too much reliance on catalogues, &c. He has only named two; viz. Erpétion reniférmis, and Campanula pilla: the last I have always treated as a hardy plant; but I was not before aware that Mr. Sweet had represented the Erpétion reniférmis as hardy. Knowing it to be a native of New Holland, I have been agreeably disappointed to find that it has survived the last two winters here in a cold wet situ- ation, without any protection whatever. I find it has also proved to be hardy in the Clapton Nursery. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— 7.B. Stamford Hill, Dec. 29. 1831. Certain Plants alleged to be hardy, §c. — Sir, Iam sorry to see in the Gardener’s Magazine (Vol. VII. p. 709.) an attack made by E. upon Mr. Sweet, for having represented some plants as hardy in the British Flower-Garden, which had perished during the winter under the manage- ment of E. From the endeavours of the editors of the different botanical periodicals to give early figures of new and interesting plants, it is sur- prising that so few mistakes occur. E. might, with equal propriety, com- G 4 88 Retrospective Criticism. plain of all the other periodicals, either for representing plants as hardy which will occasionally perish during winter out of doors, or for putting him to the expense of building houses for others which Mr. Sweet has proved experimentally will thrive better in the open air. If E. had occa- sionally visited Mr. Sweet’s garden at Chelsea for several years past, he might have witnessed the different methods recommended in the British Flower-Garden for the protection of half-hardy plants put into full practice, and with complete success. Of the two plants named as examples of serious losses, Erpétion reni- férmis is well known to be rather tender; but, with less than common care, it ought to have been perfectly safe in a cold frame. Campanula pilla is perfectly hardy, if planted in a suitable soil. Mr. Sweet gives very par- ticular directions about the compost requisite for it; and in such a mixture I have grown it for six or seven years without care or protection, only having cccasionally to grub a part of it up when spreading too wide upon the border. But why have said, “ It does not follow that because some of _ the plants in question may have survived for twelve months in the borders at Bury Hill, &c., that Mr. Sweet can be justified m recommending to his readers a practice which must inevitably expose them to serious losses ;” when it appears, by referring to the British Plower-Garden, that neither of these plants was figured from Mr. Barclay’s garden, which, by the by, from its peculiar locality, would be too severe a trial for many hardy plants ? The garden at Bury Hill, lying low in a valley, without artificial protection, exposed to the wind from every quarter, and subjected to the very latest frost in spring, and to the very earliest frost in autumn, with the common garden soil, must be allowed to be by no means favourable for the pre- servation of herbaceous plants during winter; and, therefore, if a plant stood the winter in such a situation, it might safely be considered hardy, especially when we hear of New Holland, Cape, and plants from other warm countries, growing out of doors in several gardens in Scotland, for years, with very little protection afforded them during winter. As an anonymous attack deserves an anonymous answer, I shall sign myself —F. Dec. 7. 1831. Erpetion reniformis hardy. — Sir, E., in his reproofs of Sweet’s Flower- Garden (Vol. VII. p. 710.), speaks of this plant as tender: my experience disagrees with E.’s. With me, it withstood in pots, and without protec- tion, the severity of the winters of 1828-9 and 1829-30. Campanula pilla is perfectly hardy, as the flower-borders here annually prove. — Henry Turner. Botanic Garden, Bury St. Edmunds, Dec., 1831. Propagation of Orchideous Epiphytes. — Sir, Permit me to add a few remarks to your description (Vol. VII. p. 541.) of my mode of increasing these most lovely plants. My first trial in this way was on a large plant of Cattléya crispa, which had cight old shoots and two young shoots gone over the side of the pot. I took a sharp penknife and cut the plant through carefully in three places, taking care not to disturb the plant, nor cut any roots; to my great surprise, in a short time I had two fine young shoots at the side of each old shoot where I had cut, giving me eight young shoots in all; and, I believe, had I cut the plant through at the side of all the old shoots, I should have had sixteen young shoots. I should say in this place, that the two young shoots that were on the plant before I cut it through did not suffer by the cut. I think they grow equally as strong as before, and faster, which makes me think that the old part of the plant is of no use to the young shoots after they have made their roots. I have been informed by a botanical friend, that this method of increasing the parasitical plants will not succeed except on large established plants; but I have tried it on very small plants, and have found it to answer as well as on larger ones: of course, the more old shoots there are, the more young ones there will be. I have tried it on most of the species here, and Retrospective Criticism. 89 find it to answer equally well on all. I will name two species which had only two shoots in each pot when I divided them, viz. Oncidium papilio and Brassia caudata, and they soon after attained two young shoots in each. The best time to divide the plants is just when they begin to grow. — William Perrin, Gardener to Richard Harrison, Eisq., Oakland Cottage, near Liverpool. _ Eranthis hyemalis. — 1 coincide in J. D.’s commendations of this plant (Vol. VII. p. 564.). It would be worth J. D.’s while to go to the Grove at Mitcham (Sir J. Fulbock’s), on purpose to see them in the spring; they cover the whole surface of the plantations, and are visible half a mile off, making a show like our yellow crowfoots in the fields. — B. Coventry, Nov. 2. 1831. The Tea Plant.—\ have been quite surprised at Mr. Main’s remarks in Vol. IV. p. 454-5., on the subject of the tea plant: his remark is as fol- lows :— That the green (Zhéa viridis) and the black tea (Thea Bohéa) are distinct species of the genus Thea, there can be no rational doubt : the toute ensemble forms a characteristic difference between them, as marked as that of the sweet bay and the common laurel. The green tea can by no modi- fication whatever, either of culture or clime, be obtained from the same plant that yields the multiform varieties of black tea, from inferior bohea through congou, up to pekoe, and padre souchong. The fact is, green and black tea are chemically different. By acting on green tea by means of boiling alcohol, I have dissolved resin, vegetable wax, and the green mat- ter (chlorophyle) of the leaf. The leaves by this treatment become black, but do not unfold. An officer of high rank in India informed me that when his camp was visited by Tartar tribes they were surprised at the black tea then used, which they had seen for the first time, green. tea being that alone cultivated by and used among them.—J. Murray. Dec. 1828. Censurable Names given to Gooseberries, §c. — I see that Mr. D. and you are both converts to the big gooseberries. As trying is, in such cases, believing, I intend to try a few of the best of these giants, particularly Woodward’s Whitesmith, which Mr. D. speaks of so highly in the note (Vol. VII. p. 332.) appended to my notice of small gooseberries. I also mean to get, if only for curiosity’s sake, the true Warrington. I wish they would not give quite such low, vulgar, pot-house names to their goose- berries ; names, too, that do not possess the merit of being any way pe- culiarly applicable or descriptive, to compensate for their vulgarity ; e. g. Roaring Lion, Crown Bob, Jolly Printer, Jolly Angler, Cheshire Lass, Royal Rock-getter, and, to crown all, “ Leigh’s Fuddler.” I cannot con- ceive any thing more low and blackguard, unless you descend to downright indecency and obscenity. — B. Coventry, September, 1831. British Society of Agriculture. (Vol. VII. p. 498, 499.) — Sir, I per- fectly agree with you, in opinion respecting the little utility of such asso- ciations in general, and therefore cannot hail the projected one as likely to produce the intended good. Too many, I am afraid, have either originated as jobs, or degenerated into such, by the selfish conduct of individuals ; and as this is the opinion of the great body of the farmers, societies like the above cannot be of much use until this belief is removed. It may also be doubted whether the studies Mr. Hawkins points out can be imme- diately beneficial to society. Is it not more probable that better systems of cultivation introduced into the more backward counties, by the examples shown by specimen farms, would have a much greater effect, in promoting the desired objects? Though I do not deny that natural history, chemistry, &c., may occasionally be of considerable use to a farmer ; yet, attempting to exaggerate their utility is not the way to bring them into credit amongst the mass of the people. The commercial farmer has his landlord and family to attend to, before he can afford to spend valuable time in making experiments, of which the chance against his ever being able to profit is 90 Queries and Answers. very great, besides the certainty of getting himself laughed at by his indus- trious plodding neighbours. No doubt the more general diffusion through- out the country, by local colleges, or even periodical lectures, of those branches of knowledge which are not to be acquired at the common country or day schools, may do much good, by exciting all, and enabling many, to apply barren knowledge to the affairs of life, with a readiness and precision which only some fortunate individuals can at present attain. Your cor- respondent partly illustrates this; but if he had removed the beam from his own eye, previously to his attempt to take the mote from the eyes of his neighbours, and possessed a small knowledge of political economy, it would have shown him the fallacy of the doctrines of Webb Hall, and have pre- vented him from using arguments, the errors of which every tyro must detect at first sight, and which, in fact, caused the withdrawal of the govern- ment support, and the consequent breaking up of the Board of Agriculture. It is really melancholy to see the errors into which the most humane and kind-hearted men fall, from overlooking or contemning the science, which is as necessary in enabling us to view correctly those plans for benefiting society, as arithmetic is for estimating and noting the riches of individuals. If a society is to be established, then, to prevent its failure, Professor Mac- culloch, Professor Senior, or Dr. Whately, ought to furnish or revise the rules, and, if possible, to give a preliminary lectureupon the legitimate objects and advantages to be expected from such an association. I cannot conclude without mentioning the liberality of the clergy of this diocese, who have offered to endow two professorships at the new provincial college to be established at Durham, by setting aside for their support the revenues of two or three of the stalls of the prebendaries. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— A Northumbrian. Nov. 29. 1831. Art. VII. Queries and Answers. HEATING a Conservatory and Bath from the same Boiler.— Your Maga- zine has set me, and many others of my acquaintance here, experimenting on some of the numerous inventions detailed m it. For example, I have added to my cottage residence a conservatory, forsooth, on something like the following plan : — a, Dwelling-house. 6, Parlour. c, Conservatory. d, Bath. e, Place for boiler. : J, Entrance porch, facing the south. : The conservatory has a glass front, and the front part of the roof is glass, the back part being slated. Attached is a bath, sunk on a level with the floor. Now, the cause of my troubling you is to endeavour to ascer- tain from you, or some one of your scientific readers, the best plan of heat- ing the conservatory and the bath from the same boiler; the size of the boiler, of the pipes, of the reservoir, &c. I suppose the thing can be done; if not, I shall lay all the fault at your door. — Cymro. Brecon, Dec. 1831. Queries and Answers. 91 Nothing in the way of heating by hot water can be easier. We recom- mend such of our tradesmen readers as are in the habit of putting up hot- water apparatus to write to Cymro, Post-office, Brecon, and Cymro to apply there for letters. — Cond. | The Price of Garden Ornaments, in Stone, _at Dumfries. — Sir, Your correspondent O. | P. Q. has very properly improved your hint | respecting our cheap and ornamental tomb- ; Stones. As Mr. Newall is at present in Italy, I sent the query to a very ingenious builder and mason, who owns a quarry of the best stone in Dumfriesshire, Mr. M‘Gowan. A fountain made of that stone, similar to the | engraving (Vol. VII. p. 724.), would cost at Dumfries 11/. 11s.,and might be sent to Lon- ! don for 2/. or 3/. more. You may recollect imy sundial ( fig. 34., scale lin. to 1 ft.); 1a similar one would cost here 1/. 15s. I _am, Sir, yours, &e. — Wm.Grierson. Bait- & ford, Dec. 12. 1831. «= When we consider that the fountain re- ” ferred to is 8 ft. high, the price seems re- :markably low; it would cost more than double the money, in any stone whatever, if ‘made about London. We have no doubt it ‘would pay to have columns and other ‘ architectural members worked at Dumfries, ‘and sent to London, and different parts of 4 5 England. — Cond. View of a House in Ireland. — Sir, 1 send 1 you a sketch (fig. 35.), taken from a drawing i found in the room of a late market-gardener ‘ of this place, John MacQueen, who died in {rather a singular manner about a year ago. The reason I send you the drawing is, to request you will inform me, if you know where it was erected; and if you do, I wish also to know whether MacQueen was the architect, as the drawing seemed to be by him. The late Mr. James Brown, who has been over the whole of Ireland as an itinerant druggist, assured me, some months ago, that such a building did not exist in the whole country; and I therefore conclude it belongs either to England or Scotland. Speaking of MacQueen’s death: he was a very 92 Queries and Answers. odd character ; and, having drunk rather too freely, went out, as it is sup- posed, to turn over some hot dung which was in preparation for a cucum- ber bed; and having either fallen down, or laid himself along the dung to rest, he was found next day on his face, quite dead. He lived alone; but nevertheless left a sort of will, in which he bequeathed his body to the surgeons, on condition that they returned his bones, when they had done with them, to be ground into bone manure for his own garden. Ob- serve, I do not vouch for this, though it is reported among his friends, and I believe it to be true. It is almost needless to say, that his relations paid no attention to his request. He was buried in the usual manner, but where I cannot exactly say. —John Maclaggan. Londonderry, August, 1831]. We insert the above query more on account of the drawing (fig. 35.) than the notice of a drunken gardener. Notwithstanding the names at length, we cannot help having doubts as to the authenticity of the facts. We have certainly seen either, an engraving or a house something like the drawing sent ; probably in some book. — Cond. A Machine for hewng Stones by Steam was invented by Mr. James Milne of Edinburgh, two years ago; can you, or any of your readers, in- form me if it continues to answer, and whether it would apply to basaltic or granitic rocks? If so, it will be of immense use in this country. — I. W. New York, Sept. 1831. A would-be Suburban Gardener. (Vol. VII. p. 720.) — Should no one better able than myself furnish the information desired by A would-be Suburban Gardener, I will, in a future Number, endeavour to do so. I should, in that case, like to occupy a page or two, to give a list of orna- mental plants, and a few hints respecting their culture, which, if attended to, would preserve A would-be Suburban Gardener, and many others, from the frequent disappointments to which they are now exposed; and which, no doubt, tend to destroy their zest for gardening pursuits. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— William Boyce. Roehampton, Dec. 28. 1831. A Grub-worm is making sad havoc among my strawberries, intended for next year’s forcing. Can you or any of your readers inform me through the Gardener’s Magazine, how it may be destroyed ? — John Stoveld. Petworth, Nov. 1. 1831. History of the Lombardy Poplar (Populus dilatata).— Sir, In your last Number (Vol. VII. p.716.), J. D., speaking of the wood of the Lombardy poplar, observes that it “is remarkably light when dry, and is usually but lightly esteemed : for in-door purposes it is, however, said to be excellent. Hence the following couplet appertaining to it : — ‘ Though heart of oak be e’er so stout, Keep me dry, and I’ll see him out.’ ” I cannot speak from experience of the timber, but have always heard it represented as the most worthless of woods.’ The above couplet, or one to the same effect, I have often heard applied to the Spanish chestnut; but it cannot, I think, have been originally intended to apply to the Lombardy poplar, because the couplet itself is of far m>re ancient date than the period of the introduction of that tree into this country. J. D. speaks also, though he speaks doubtfully, of the value of poplar wood on account of its “igniting very slowly.” (Does he say this of poplar timber in general, or does he confine the remark to that of the Lombardy poplar in parti- cular?) [J. _D’s remarks were rural traditions transcribed, which his ex- perience neither enables him to negative nor confirm: they related to the timber of poplars generally, or rather to the British species, P. nigra, alba, andcanéscens.] This is the character also of other species of poplar, especially the abele (P. alba), of which wood, or of the Pépulus canéscens (Iam not sure which), grown upon the estate, the chamber floors of the present man- sion at Newbold Comyn, near Leamington, are constructed. They are of a Queries and Answers. 93 light colour, and remarkably neat. The timber of the abele (P. alba or of P. canéscens, whichever it may be) was selected for this purpose (as I have often heard from the late possessor of the property) for the very reason hinted at above by J.D. An abele (or P. canéscens) of very large dimensions grew, long since my recollection, upon the small narrow island in the river immediately in front of the house at Newbold, but it has been cut down some years. Larch. The timber of the larch, though, like other trees of the fir tribe, it abounds with turpentine, is yet, contrary to what we should expect, re- markably slow m igniting, and may almost be said to resist fire. A friend of mine once had occasion to cut down some old larch trees, and thinking that they would make particularly good firewood, he had them cut into logs for that purpose, and reserved for his own use. To his utter surprise, however, he found that they would scarcely burn; I do not mean that fire would not consume them, but that they burned extremely sluggishly, and made the worst fuel that can well be imagined. The same I have found by experience to be the case with the twigs and small branches of the larch. Can you account for this extraordinary fact, which is so contrary to what might have been expected? The larch, too, I am told, has the property of resisting the effects of water as well as of fire. The value of this quick-growing tree as timber is, I apprehend, scarcely yet estimated as it deserves in this country. Birch (Bétula alba).— Are you aware that the thin white bark of the birch, which peels off like so much paper, will burn like a candle? May it not be applied to some useful purpose ? The wood and twigs of birch, too, burn remarkably brisk. Yours, &c.—W.T. Bree. Allesley Rectory, Dec. 20. 1831. Poljgala vulgaris of different Colours. — Sir, Some apology is perhaps due from me to your correspondent G. J. P., for having misunderstood his meaning (Vol. VII. p. 246.), as it appears I did, respecting the varieties of Polygala vulgaris (see p. 380.); and yet I know not how his words could well be understood in any other sense than that in which I took them. From his subsequent remarks (p. 717.), I perceive his meaning to be, that flowers of several different colours are sometimes found on the same individual plant of Polygala vulgaris; and that he seeks an explanation of the phenomenon. Now this reminds me of the old story about the hoaxing problem once proposed to a learned society, viz. “ Why a vessel filled with water, and with a guinea placed in it, weighs no heavier than the same vessel filled with water, but without the guinea?’’ Before we speculate on such questions, I should wish to be informed, on somewhat less vague authority, whether the fact be really so. Your correspondent says, “he finds on a neighbouring common the Polygala vulgaris ; the flowers are of four different colours, viz. dark blue, light blue, red, and white.” (p. 246.) All these varieties, 1. e. specimens of the plant respectively bearing flowers of these several colours, are of frequent occurrence. In his last com- munication he tells us that he has read in some book (he forgets the title), that the flowers of Polygala vulgaris are changeable, and that flowers have been found of several colours on the same plant; “but this,” he adds, “he never saw.’ Neither have 1; and if any of your readers have ever met with so unusual a party-coloured variety, it may be worth recording in your Magazine. I would not, however, be understood as absolutely denying the existence of such a variety, more especially as a similar anomaly, 1 am aware, is known to take place in some other cases; e.g. I have seen on the same plant of Geranium praténse, in the Oxford Garden, blossoms, some of which were entirely blue, some pure white, and others striped, or partly blue (the usual colour) and partly white. Centauréa Cyanus, again, is not unfrequently to be met with in the gardens producing, on the same plant, flowers of four or more different colours, viz. blue, white, dark purple, or chocolate, and particoloured. And, only in October last, my attention 94 Queries and Answers. was called to a very handsome georgina in the nursery of Messrs. Young, at Epsom, which bore two different kinds of self-coloured flowers, as well as a third kind which partook of both colours beautifully intermixed; if my memory serves me, I think the variety was called by the florists’ name of “ William and Adelaide.”’ How to account for these freaks of nature, which, from the above examples, it appears, occur chiefly among plants in a cultivated state, is a point I must leave to wiser heads. Yours, &c. —W.T. Bree. Allestey Rectory, Dec. 20. 1831. Cyclamen pérsicum.— Some queries on the fragrance of the blossoms of this species occur in Vol. VII. p. 562. It is known to vary into plants whose blossoms are all purple-eyed, or others whose blossoms have all white eyes. Irather think that among the purple-eyed plants, some are fragrant and some are not; and that among the white-eyed plants, the case is quite the same. The finest specimen I ever saw was one my father used to have when we were children; it was high fun for us to count the number of blossoms out at one time, which was enormous; they were very fragrant, and of the purple-eyed kind. — B. Coventry, Nov. 2. 1831. The late Mr. Hobson's Books of Mosses.— In answer to. B. of Coventry (Vol. VII. p. 124.), the late Mr. Hobson published several copies, as com- plete as he possibly could make them, containing each 300 species of mosses, and Jungermannia. If B. wishes any particular information respecting the 2d and 3d vols., he may have it by addressing a letter to me, post paid. — Wm. Hobson. 31. Chester Road, Hulme, Manchester, Dec. 1831. Gentiana acaitlis (Vol. VII. p. 728.) is best propagated by seed, which should be sown, as soon as ripe, in pots filled with loam and peat mould. The pots to be placed in the shade till the approach of winter, when they should have the protection of a cold frame. In the course of the next summer the plants will be large enough to be pricked off into other pots, filled, as before, and put in the shade. They should be kept in frames during another winter, and in the second spring they will be fit for final transplantation. It is necessary to observe, that if edgings are to be made of this plant, they should be planted, at least, four or five inches within the border or clump ; and if planted in “ patches quaint,” should seldom be moved, as few plants suffer more by being disturbed. A moist rich loam is the best soil for this plant. Lhe Lady Bath Heartsease. (Vol. VII. p. 728.) — When I had the care of the splendid collection of plants belonging to T. Kingscote, Esq. of Kingscote Park, Gloucestershire, I procured the Lady Bath heartsease from Mr. Wheeler, nurseryman, of Warminster, who raised that beautiful variety, and named it in compliment to Lady Bath. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— Wm. Boyce. Roehampton, Dec. 28. 1831. Amaryllis formosissima seeds in England ; in reply to the query of Ama- ryllideus. (Vol. VII. p. 728.) — The Jacobzean lily used to bloom annually outside and in front of a conservatory in this town, but which is now no longer standing. Once at least, in this situation, it ripened seeds, from which plants were raised. — Henry Turner. Bury St. Edmunds. Culture of Gentiana acailis; in answer to S. W. (Vol. VII. p. 728.) — This plant grows luxuriantly in a garden near this town, planted in a very strong loam. It will also flower well in heath mould ; but in a mixture of heath mould and loam, although it will grow strongly, it will rarely blos- som at all. — Jd. Trish Pearl Moss. — Can you tell me what lichen it is, which is sold in Covent Garden Market under the names of oak lungs, carrageen, or Irish pearl moss, for medicinal purposes? I am, Sir, yours, &c.—J. Elles. Palace Gardens, Armagh, Dec. 23. 1831. [Ficus crispus var. 8 of Turner’s Historia Fucorum, vol. iv. t. 217. f. c. See Mag. Nat. Hist., vol. iii. p. 483. fig. 119] Meliénthus major. — Are you aware that this plant is as hardy as the common artichoke? [Yes.] Ihave a few of them in some beds in. the Queries and Answers. 95 vo lawn, where, along with yuccas, cannas, and Indian corn, they have a rich Oriental appearance in summer. — Robert Redstead. Hampshire, Nov. 1831. How can I ripen Grapes by the middle of September, without Fires? —J want to have firm and large berries, in bunches, in time for the Doncaster races. Your advice, or that of some of your correspondents, will much oblige — R. W. Doncaster, Nov. 1831. Beer from Sugar mixed with inferior. Malt or unmalted Barley. — Has any of your correspondents experience in the making of beer from sugar mixed with very inferior malt or unmalted barley? There is every reason to believe that very bad malt and sugar, or unmalted barley and sugar, if coarsely cut in a machine, will make a beer equal to the best malt ; and it is very desirable that this point should be clearly ascertained, as it would afford means of giving a very cheap drink to the people, at the same time, that it would extend the sale of barley, by giving it a chance of escaping the malt duty, as well as by giving an additional value to the worst part of the crop. Perhaps you would invite a discussion of the subject.— X. Y. London, Aug. 29. 1831. Barley Bigg.— In answer to the queries of your correspondent X. Y., Vol, VII. p. 731. respecting barley bigg, which has this year been rein- troduced, for the hundredth time, from Tartary, and cultivated in the Chis- wick garden as a new grain, I would say, that the seed is usually to be obtained from the principal London seedsmen, as Gibbs or Wrench; but, if not there, it may be obtained with certainty from any Scotch seedsman at Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Aberdeen; though I remember, in the latter place, finding some extraordinary and unaccountable difficulties raised against procuring it, by Messrs. Walker, gentlemen in all other articles so intelligent, so liberal, so fair, so tradesmanlike, and so satisfactory. I do not apprehend that, without a special order or caution, the Scotch traders would point out or observe any distinction, or be particular in the sample, whether of the tetrastichon or hexastichon variety. It differs from spring barley in this particular, that, whereas the latter cannot be grown to advantage except in fine light soils, the former thrives very vigorously in stiff cold clays. The grain is produced in greater abundance than that of spring barley; it is believed to have a more nutritious farina, but the thick- ness of the skin and coarseness of the sample render it unfit for the maltster, though it will make substantial good barley bread, where that article is in use, and the distiller will occasionally make liberal use of it. But for those who need a stout nutritive grain, on clay soils, for mixture with horse meat (for which purpose it was cultivated in Italy so early as the time of Columella, under the name of hordeum cantherinum), or for fattening pigs or bullocks, the winter barley is well adapted, on account of its hardihood, ample produce, and highly nutritive quality. Its most esteemed property, however, especially in the south, is, perhaps, its adapt- ation for green meat, as sheep-feed, in which use certain peculiarities are to be attended to. I have not, in the south of England, where alone I have tried it, found it thrive, if sown earlier than mid-September. If sown sooner, it gets so forward as to be destroyed by frost. At no time during the winter does it present a close or heavy burden of green meat on the ground, like the dense herbage of rye or wheat. So soon as the plant acquires four leaves, one or two of them decay, and are continually replaced by as many others. The economical use of it in that stage of growth, therefore, is, to run your sheep and lambs over it four, five, or six times in the winter: it agrees peculiarly well with them, never griping or sceuring them, as rye does. ‘Treading does not hurt it, even on a wet clay; it succeeds on the London blue clays, and on the blue lias clays of Somersetshire; and the sheep, at each feeding, consume only that which within another fortnight would perish of itself. No accumulation of food is acquired by sparing it, nor is the power of producing a full grain crop 96 Cottages and Cottage Gardens. impaired or exhausted by the frequent winter feedings, if not repeated beyond the time when it shows a disposition to spindle. When it at length runs, in spring, if the soil is good and well manured, it rises, of the thick- ness of a swan’s quill, to the height of 3 ft. or more, and has a very broad and fleshy flag, and a great deal of rich nutritious food, to be cut green for the stable; and it happily supplies the interval, for that purpose, between rye and wheat, or winter vetches. If sown in autumn, its grain ripens early in summer : it possesses this peculiarity, that a large, and apparently well-ripened crop is occasionally found to be destitute of vegetative power (at least, in the south of England), so that any sample grown for seed, or bought for seed, ought to be proved in a hot-bed before sowing, in order to determine whether it is fit for that purpose, or only for the pigs; and old seed habitually fails. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — Causidicus. Dec. 1831. A Machine for preparing Flax and Hemp, by a new and improved Process, for manufacturing into Canvass, Cordage, §c.— Such a machine is spoken of in a letter signed L., 5. University Street, Fitzroy Square, which appeared in the Times newspaper, June 23. 1831. Can you, or any of your readers, inform me where it is to be had, whether its advantages are really such as that writer describes, and what is the cost of the machine? The advantages stated by L. to be derivable from its use are as follow: — 1. A saving of more than one third in manual labour, and in the purchase of the utensils and machines requisite for preparing flax and hemp for the spinner, by the operation of steeping; 2. An increase of one twentieth in the quantity as well as quality of the long fibrous threads called horle ; 3. A dimmution in the quantity of the tow, which is so superior in quality as to be capable of producing the finest cloth ; 4. An increase of one twelfth in the strength of the thread, and, consequently, of all sail-cloth and cordage for the navy. made from it: this is proved by the thread prepared by the machine being submitted to the test of the dynamometer; 5. The fitness of the boon (?) [husky matter] for several purposes, particularly in the manufacture of paper, containing its own size, which yields to none in beauty, texture, durability, and whiteness; 6. An increase in the value of land wherever hemp or flax are cultivated, by reason of the increased value of the pro- duce; and, lastly, The cessation of the importation of these articles from abroad, which annually draw such immense sums from this country. I have been requested by a correspondent in Jamaica to procure inform- ation respecting this machine for him; and as general, not partial, utility is my object, it will be best attained by acquiring it through your Magazine. — Wilkam Hamilton. Oxford Place, Plymouth, Oct. 20. 1831. On enquiring at 5. University Street, we find, that the machine in question was a considerable improvement on that of Bundy (Hncye. of Agr. 2d edit. p. 916. fig. 987.). The inventor,'a Mr. Sewicrop, has gone to Paris; but as there is a workman in London who can make the machine, the invention will not be lost ; and our correspondent, or others concerned, may apply at Weir’s manufactory, Oxford Street, where such information as has transpired will be obtained. — Cond. Art. VIII. Cottages and Cottage Gardens, Workhouse Gardens, and Gardens of Prisons and Lunatic Asylums. Tue notices which we purpose giving under this head, from time to time, will be chiefly confined to recording the progress made in these departments of gardening in different parts of the country. It gives us much pleasure to observe that the great benefits which arise from adding gardens to labourers’ cottages are every year more and more felt all over the country. We had many proofs of this in our late tour, both in Eng- _ Jand and in Scotland; and most sincerely do we wish that government Workhouse Gardens, and Gardens of Prisons. 97 would pass a law to oblige ali builders of cottages unalienably to attach a certain quantity of land to each as a garden, as suggested Vol. VII. p- 410. A bill has been lately (December, 1831) brought into Parliament, which proposes to oblige parishes to provide gardens for all their cottage dwell- ings ; but the practicability of this, on the plan proposed in the bill, appears to us very doubtful. (See our observations on this subject, Vol. V. p. 712.) We prefer, as an artificial and temporary measure, some plan by which abundance of labour may be created in every part of the country. We have suggested for this purpose the reforming of the public roads all over the island, under the direction of district engineers, the expense to be paid out of the general taxes. (See our letter on the subject in the Morn- eng Chronicle of Dec. 31. 1831.) We have strongly recommended workhouse gardens (Vol. V. p.714.) for the aged and infirm poor; and we had the pleasure of seeing at Co- ventry (May 6. 1831) our ideas in great part carried into effect. The three parishes which compose the town of Coventry are under one system of management as far as it respects the poor ; and an old monastery and its extensive garden have been turned into a lodging and working- place. The garden is cultivated entirely by the inmates, and chiefly the old men, as the women are supplied with im-door work, and there is a schoolmaster for teaching the children to read, write, and count. It was observed to us, by Mrs. Mercer, the highly respectable matron, who has the entire management of the establishment, under the direction of a com- mittee, that all the old men who were able to work, however little, took ereat pleasure in bemg employed in the garden, and she only regretted that there was not more ground. Mrs. Mercer is very fond of horticulture, and directs the cultivation of the garden under her care most judiciously. It was in the very best order, and without a single weed. She has a border devoted to flowers, and, as it does not contain many sorts, we venture to call on our friends in her neighbourhood, Mr. Brown, Mr. Knox, and Mr. Oliver, to send her a few plants and seeds, and a few cuttings and suckers of shrubs and roses. We are persuaded that it would be a great improvement in the manage- ment of the workhouse poor of London, and of other large towns, to have workhouses in the country, in the midst of large gardens, for their aged and infirm inmates, who might then be usefully and agreeably em- ployed in the gardens in raising part of their own food. The idea of so many aged persons spending their last days in workhouses, is indeed deplor- able ; but it seems to be inseparable from the wretched state of society in this country. In the great Marylebone workhouse*, which has a front that, for length, and the size and number of the windows, might be compared to a Russian palace (and indeed it closely resembles that of General Apraxin, at Moscow, of which we possess an elevation), there are constantly from 80 to 120 very old men and women, who are led or carried out, one by * We visited this immense establishment on the 28th of December last. It covers several acres, and consists of several courts, surrounded by build- ings, or by high walls, including a chapel, an infirmary, a girls’ school and a boys’ school, and a prison. ‘The infirmary fronts the New Road, and has a simple unbroken elevation, with large windows on the first floor ; produc- ing, on the whole, considerable grandeur of effect The total number of inmates is about 1440 grown-up persons, and about 300 children. Of the grown-up persons at least 500, we were told, are able-bodied men, who cannot get work ; above 100 are cld men and women, unfit for any kind of employment, some of them bed-ridden, Between 200 and 300 are in the infirmary. 'The whole appeared to us as well managed as an institution of the kind possibly can be. Vor. VIIL — No. 36. H 98 Cottages and Cottage Gardens, one, every morning, and set down on a bench, under a shed, or, when the weather is fine, in the sun, where they remain, almost in.a state of torpor, being unable to help themselves, and having no one to attend to them, till they are led or carried, one by one, back again, at the time appointed for their next meal. What a picture of human desolation! If, instead of being placed upon benches, with nothing to gaze at but a brick wall, these persons were led into a garden, where they could see numbers of their fel- low inmates at work, breathe the fresh air, see and smell the flowers, and hear the birds and other rural sounds, their miserable lot would have some little alleviation. A number of them could perhaps assist in some of the lighter garden operations; the most infirm could scare away birds, or pre- pare gooseberries, and shell legumes for the kitchen. This might enable them to measure their time as it passes, and would afford some kind of amusement to divert their minds from incessantly dwelling on their own forlorn and hopeless situatien. Is it too much to say that something would be gained for the happiness of the human kind, if all men were agreed that, wherever there was a habitation, whether for an individual family, or for a number of persons, strangers to each other, such as hospitals, workhouses, prisons, asylums, infirmaries, and even barracks, there should be a garden. In our opinion, a dwelling without a garden ought not to exist. At Aylesbury, Chester, Lancaster, and some other places, we found gar- dens of more or less extent attached to the prisons, m which the prisoners were allowed to work, in some cases as a recreation, and in others as labourers for the governor of the prison. We found the gardens in excel- lent order, with abundant crops of useful vegetables, or richly ornamented with flowers, and we were informed that the prisoners were much human- ised by their culture. We have no doubt that, as a means of prison edu- cation, gardens might be turned to good account by humane and _ pains- taking governors and gaolers; and we could wish they were appended to every gaol and penitentiary. To the large County Lunatic. Asylum, near Lancaster, which we visited on the 9th of July, 1831, there is a garden of several acres attached, and we were informed that many of the inmates took delight, some in cultivat- ing particular spots as their own gardens, which were pointed out to us, and others in assisting in the general operations of the garden. In the private Lunatic Asylum of Spring Vale, near Stone, so admirably managed by Mr. Bakewell, the operations of gardening and farming are made to serve as exercises and recreations for several of the invalids. From what we were informed by Mr. Bakewell, we are led to consider a garden as even a more important appendage to an establishment of this kind than it is to a workhouse or a prison. : With respect to cottages, we are extremely anxious to bring into prac- tical use the two inventions of Mr. Frost before mentioned (p. 60.), by which fire-proof cottages, of endless duration, and warmer than those of either brick or wood, might be constructed, we believe, at the ordinary expense. We wish much that some individual, who has a few hundred pounds to spare, and a suitable situation for a few cottages, would take Mr. Frost by the hand, and show what can be done by his inventions. One great advantage of his cement and tubes is, that they are of easy transport ; and weare persuaded that, if their application were once fairly understood they would be much in demand for the West Indies, North America, and Australia. These inventions are even still better adapted for town-houses than for cottages, the former being so much more liable to fire. The great impediment is, that this mode of building is at variance with the in- terest of timber merchants, carpenters, bricklayers, plasterers, paviors, and slaters : no small proof of the importance of the invention. The Letting of Land to Labourers in Suffolk and in Cambridgeshire. — Sir, The remarks in your last Number (Vol. VII. p. 706—709.) on cottage gar- dens and gardening have considerably interested me; and, had I leisure, I Labourers’ Gardens in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. 59 would reply to those by Charles Laurence (p. 707—709.), whose experience has led him to very different conclusions from those to which my practice has led me, and who seems to have been singularly unfortunate in having only encountered labourers of the dullest capacity. Having, however, re- corded my own conclusions in a pamphlet *, I shall not here repeat them, but submit a supplementary instance or two of the extending application of the system of letting land to labourers. In Vol. VII. p. 223. you have already recorded, that, since the publica- tion of the Peasant’s Voice, the forty half-acres stated in that pamphlet to have been occupied, for the eight years preceding, by forty labourers, in this parish, were, in the close of 1830, doubled, so as to allow each labourer an acre; thus clearly proving that the landlord, our vicar, had seen no cause to be dissatisfied with the system, but far otherwise. From the date of that event to the present time, various gratifying circumstances, some near, some distant, connected with this subject, have become known to me; and of these I shall acquaint you with two, even should they, as I am personally connected with both of them, criminate me of egotism. On the 17th of August, 1831, I received a letter from the Rev. E. Jones of Pakenham, a village six miles from Bury St. Edmunds, on its Norwich side, informing me that nearly 50 acres are let to the la- bourers of his parish (one acre of arable land is the largest quantity, then half acres, and 4 or 5 quarter acres or roods, and 4 allotments for a cow): that all the occupiers are highly pleased and grateful for them: and he adds, “There are many fresh applicants for land, whose wants I am afraid cannot at present be satisfied.” Mr. Jones having learned that the labourers in my parish occupied an acre each, requested me to communi- cate the mode of cultivation here practised, for the benefit of the labourers in his own parish. On the 20th of October, 1831, I received a letter from the Rev. Edgar Rust of Drinkstone, a village on the Ipswich side of Bury St. Edmunds, and near Woolpit, informing me that he is the principal trustee of some charity land; that he was anxious the poor should have the full benefit arising therefrom; and that he wished for my personal assistance in apportioning some land to agricultural labourers, and offering to recompense me for my time and expenses. I determined to wait on Mr. Rust; and, in passing through Bury St. Edmunds, replied there to Mr. Jones’s letter, informing him that Iwas on my way to Drinkstone. My ride from Bury to Woolpit, which is very near Drinkstone, was short, but very pleasant ; the morning was fine. The corn in many places was full rowed; the rising hills and sloping vales reminded me of Surrey and Sussex, only that the hills are not so lofty ; but the healthy whitethorn [hawthorn] fences and vigorous-growing trees showed that it is a far better soil. I was pleased to find all the cot- tage gardens that I saw in excellent order, many of them of a good size, and cottages of a comfortable appearance. At Woolpit is a large pear tree, trained to what we call a smock windmill (they are called smock wind- mills, to distinguish them from post-mills), which appeared to be in a very healthy condition. Iwas kindly received by the Rev. E. Rust: he is a benevolent man, with firmness of purpose. The population of Drikstone is about 400 souls ; and the land is about 1800 acres, 37 of which is charity land, and 8 of town land. The charity land, from the donor leaving it to supply the poor with bread, has received the name of Bread Closes ; but it has been let to the farmers for a number of years, who have of late years expended the greater part of the rent in binding out apprentices. Mr. Rust is desirous that the labourers should each of them occupy an acre of it, at an easy rent. This a part of the farmers are against, and have * “ A Peasant’s Voice to Landowners.” 1830. 8vo, pp. 76. 2s. 6d. W. H. Smith, Cambridge; John Richardson, London. Hr2 109 Cottages and Cottage Gardens. threatened to hire labourers from other parishes, and stop the labourers’ head-money. The price of labour at Drinkstone, for a married man, is 9s. per week: the rest, where there is a family, is made up from the poor’s rate, and receives the name of head-money. These threats have had a tendency to deter some of the labourers from becoming occupiers. The land is staked out, and some of it, perhaps the greater portion, is let. When the labourers are convinced they have a permanent interest in the land, and have got over their fears, it will all be let. Mr. Rust is not only anxious that the labourers should possess land, but that they should be assisted in erecting cottages upon them, free from manorial dues. The rent arising from the land the labourers occupy, being left for their benefit, may judiciously be expended in erecting cottages. The land is, the greater part of it, good. Mr. Rust is fully disposed to do all the good he can, and I have no doubt he will ultimately succeed to the utmost of his sanguine expectation. I had not been an hour at Drinkstone before the Rev. Mr. Jones arrived (to my surprise) from Pakenham. He went with us to examine the land ; and we conversed with several labourers that we found working in the field, to whom I was introduced as a friend to, and one that had had much practice in, cottage allotments. One man has been in possession, for some time, of about two acres, near his cottage; it was very foul when he took it; he was getting in his wheat. I could not perceive either a biennial or perennial weed in his allotment: he has a large family ; is as cheerful as a black-cap ; and does not receive head-money. Nearly all we saw were invited to come to Mr. Rust’s in the evening, where, after conversing with them, they were ordered to go and make themselves comfortable mn the kitchen. Mr. Jones requested that I would spend a day or two with him, and see what had been done at Pakenham. He came over for me the next day to Mr. Rust’s. I shall ever entertain a grateful sense of Mr. Rust’s and Mr. Jones’s kindness to me, to merit which I had not done any thing but eat and drink; for both these gentlemen are so well ac- quainted with the system, and enter so heartily into it, that they stood in no need of any advice or information from me more than they had received from the Peasant’s Voice. At Pakenham the greater part of the tenants occupy acres; their wheat crops were up, and looked beautiful ; most of their land is near their cottages. Mr. Jones went with me to all the allotments, introduced me to a number of the tenants, to whom he said, they might thank me for the land they occupied; for, if he had not read my book, he should not have thought of letting them have it. There are four allotments for cows on land which, before it was drained, was but of little value; a river runs through it, and it is drained by a tun- nel made under the river, and a dike cut 3 or 4ft. below the bottom of the river, at some little distance from it. Here my plan is realised; and from the information I gained from the tenants (the wife of one of whom said they had had 40 sacks of potatoes from a quarter of an acre), and from nine years’ observation in my own parish, I am fully confident that it will realise all I have ever said in favour of the system. I feel pleasure in adding, that, at Pakenham, the labourers are not pestered with a long list of rules and regulations, or of conditions: they pay their rent quarterly ; in every other respect they are treated the same as a person occupying 100 acres. At Barton, also near Bury St. Edmunds, I hear it is adopted. Mr. Jones read me a letter from a gentleman who is tra- velling the country, who informs him, that, wherever the plan has been tried, it has fully answered the end proposed. I left Suffolk, highly grati- fied in my personal feelings, and not less so at what is doing and has been done for the labourers in the above-mentioned parishes. I wish all those who possess the means would imitate the praiseworthy example of the above-named gentlemen. By so doing they would not only raise the #8 Metropolitan Nurseries. 101 jabourer in his own estimation, and enable him to support his family in comfort, but the “pressing temptation to crime would be removed; a moral feeling would be created, which exercises a more efficient control over the actions and passions of men, than all the terrors of the most vindictive code of criminal law. If he {the labourer] be not so cringing and servile to the farmer in outward appearance, neither will he conceal the dark malignant purpose of revenge within. If his sturdy independence be disagreeable to the farmer, still more disagreeable ought that mendi- cant disposition to be which shakes the security of his possessions, which haunts his hours of rest with terror, and gives the gathered stores of his granaries to the midnight flames.” This quotation is from the address of the Sussex Association to the Agricultural Labourers. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— J. Denson, sen. Waterbeach, near Cambridge, Dec. 20. 1831. Art. IX. Metropolitan Nurseries. Unper this title we intend in future to include such notices as we may give from time to time of the nurseries and florists’ gardens within 20 miles of London. The notices which we are most desirous of giving are those which respect the introduction of new plants, and the flowering or fruiting of such as have been lately introduced. We are more parti- cularly anxious, now that the Horticultural Society has published a se- cond edition of its Catalogue, to record the names of those nurserymen who may plant collections of stock fruit trees correctly named, accord- ing to it, for the purpose of supplying themselves with scions and cuttings for propagation. We are convinced that this is the only mode by which anurseryman can keep his trees always true to their names; and, therefore, we are desirous not merely of naming the nursery in which this mode is adopted, but of giving lists of the kinds planted as stock. We are also desirous of noticing all the arboretums which may be planted in nurseries, with a view to showing purchasers the great variety and beauty of the trees and shrubs which will endure the open air in this country. We feel confident that we shall render both the London nurserymen and their country correspondents an essential service by this plan, and that there can be none better for acquainting gardeners and our readers generally, with what is going on in the gardening world. The metro- politan nurserymen who plant fruticetums and arboretums may not only supply the trade in the country with plants, but we do not see why they should not also sell scions and cuttings both in the grafting and budding seasons. It is a mistake to suppose that this would lessen the demand for young plants; if that effect were a likely result, it would have taken place - long ago, in consequence of the thousands of cuttings given away annually by the London Horticultural Society ; but, so far from this being the case, we believe that the attention which has thus been directed to the new kinds of fruits has greatly increased the sale of fruit trees. The truth is, that, in these days, when every article of commerce is sold at the very lowest rate of profit, no private gentleman could raise fruit trees so cheaply as he can purchase them from a nurseryman. The cuttings given by horticultural societies to private gentlemen are generally grafted on trees already existing, with a view of substituting a better sort. This is a prac- tice highly to be commended, and as it will undoubtedly contmue to spread, we recommend nurserymen to assist in it, and profit from it, by offering scions for sale. They may rely on it, that the greater number of country gentlemen, even of those vue are members of a horticultural H 102 Metropolitan Nurseries. society, would rather purchase cuttings than have the trouble of applying for them, or the feeling of receiving them as a favour. Besides, nine tenths of those who would be happy to have good sorts of fruits grafted on trees of bad or indifferent kinds are not F.H.S.s, and therefore not entitled to apply to any horticultural society for scions or cuttings; and to these it would be highly acceptable to be able to purchase them from nurserymen. Why not sell cuttings of every kind, as well as seeds, bulbs, and tubers ? Depend on it, as horticultural skill increases, this will be done ; and the wisest nurserymen will be those who fall into the practice, instead of inef- fectually attempting to oppose it. Requesting our readers to favour us with whatever they think will con- tribute to the value of this portion of our work, and also to that of the article on Provincial Nurseries, we proceed to lay before them such notices as we have received, or have ourselves had time to prepare. Brown’s Bedford Nursery, Hampstead Road. — Nov.19. 1831. Mr. Brown, a pupil of the late Mr. Don of Forfar, occupied, for several years, the Bedford Nursery in the New Road, now no longer in existence. A few years ago, he commenced this establishment, and has built a number of very excellent green-houses and pits, and one or two forcing-houses. In a bark-stove for pines and exotics, with grapes under the rafters, he has introduced a very good method of withdrawing the vines for the purpose of wintering them. The front glass is in sashes, about 3 ft. long and 2 ft. high. The uprights which support the rafters are alternately fixed and movable ; and when it is desired to take out the vines, the movable upright is knocked out, the sashes and the sill removed, and thus a space, 6 ft. 6 in. long, and 3 ft. 4 in. wide, is cleared, through which each particular vine may be withdrawn. The advantage of the plan is the abundance of room, by which the oldest and most rigid-stemmed vines may be taken out with ease, and without injury. Mr. Brown has built himself an excellent house, with a detached seed-shop. His business is chiefly local; and, being a man of considerable taste, he is much employed in laying out and keepmg in order suburban gardens. In his seed-shop we observed a few gardening and botanical books for sale, which we think highly commendable. The Maryland Point Nursery, Stratford, Essex, lately occupied by Mr. Garraway, has recently been taken possession of by our friend and corre- spondent Mr. Thomas Corbett, who is devoted to botany and gardening, and, we have no doubt, will raise the character of this or any other esta- blishment which he may take in hand. As soon as we can find leisure, we shall call and report on it. Epsom Nursery.—New or rare plants which have flowered last year in the nursery of Messrs. Young, at Epsom. & I adopt Professor Lindley’s arrangement of the natural orders, ad- mirably illustrated in his Introduction to the Natural System of Botany; a work which will amply repay the careful perusal and attentive study of every gardener. : Hybrid plants will henceforth stand at the end of the systematic list, in order to point out the propriety of distmguishing between legitimate species and “artificially created forms.” I retain, however, the Latin specific appellations for the present, as the most efficient means for dis- tinguishing the particular kinds, or until a preferable mode may be pro- posed. See Lindley’s observations, in Botanical Register, t.1387 [For the amount of the observations alluded to, see p. 12.] DICOTYLEDONOUS. Umbellifere Juss., Lindl. Introd. p.4.. Trachyméne Rudg. linearis Spreng. A neat green-house shrub, with white flowers in August and September ; strikes readily ina cold frame. Metropolitan Nurseries. 103 Papaveracee Juss., Lindl. Int. p. 8. Papaver Tourn. pyrenaicum Willd. In foliage resembling the equally elegant P. alpinum Lin., but more robust. The flowers are golden yellow, produced from May to October. Dry situation, or rockwork ; seeds. The root-stock will rarely admit of division without injury. Crucifere Juss., Lindl. Int. p. 14. Trib. 2. Alyssinee Dec. Ano- dontea (sect. of Alyssum) Dec. tortudsa Ledeb.? A. obovata Ledeb. ? Charming little rock plant, with yellow flowers all summer. — Draba Dec. repens Bieb. A stoloniferous yellow-flowered species. — Tribe 12, Brassicee Dec. Sinapis Tourn. frutéscens Ait., Hook. Bot. Misc. vol. i. t. 28. An interesting shrubby species of Sinapis ? with pale yellow flowers in July and August. Frame. Fumariacee Dec., Lindl. Int. p. 18. Corydalis Dec. *bibracteata Haw. med. Closely affined to C. bulbosa Dec. Magnoliaceee Dec., Lindl. Int. p. 24. Talaima Juss. Canddélle: Blume. This noble plant, a congener of the beautiful Magnolia, flowered, for the second time (I believe) in this country, in July last. The odours of one blossom suffused a large hot-house with a fragrance the most delicious imaginable. The flower began to develope about 9 o’clock in the morn- ing, by 11 was fully expanded, continuing till noon, when it began to close and to decrease in fragrance. By 4 in the afternoon it was finally closed, and not the least fragrance remained. The flower is straw-coloured, of a rich yellow on the inside, about the size of Magnolia pumila. It thrives vigorously in loam and peat plentifully supplied with water ; is propagated by ripened cuttings plunged in tan, or engrafted on the Magnolia obovata foes or perhaps some of the stronger-growing kinds might be pre- erable. Berberideze Vent., Lindl. Int. p. 30. Beérberis L. dalcis Sweet, B. F. G. t. 100., B. empetrifolia Lam. Exceedingly rare species ; quite hardy. Malvacee Juss., Lindl. Int. p. 33. Malva ZL. purpurata Lindl, Bot. Reg. t. 1362., JZ. miniata Cav., Sweet's B. F. G. t. 120. Beautiful herb- aceous plants. Frame. — Hibiscus L. Lindléyz Wallich, Bot. Reg. t. 1395. Admirably adapted for planting in the open border in the sum- mer months, where it grew to the height of 4: ft.; and produced its splendid purple blossoms in August and September. Stove in winter. Sterculiacee Vent., Lindl. Int. p. 36. Hermannia L. glandulosa Link ? An elegant yellow-flowered species, flowering in the open border from June to October. Saxifragee Dec. and Duby, Lindl. Int. p.49. Saxifraga L. altifida Haw. A rare species, resembling in habit 8. granulata L.; but the roots are not granulated.—S. tricuspidata Retz. A white-flowered species, not a coordinate of S. aizdides Sm., as was doubtingly supposed by Mr. Haworth when he framed his genus Leptasea from them. Cactee Dec., Lindl. Int. p. 54. Peréskia Plum. Bléo H. B. et Kunth. An elegant and rare ally of the common P. aculeata Mill. Onagrarie Juss., Lindl. Int. p. 56. Gatra L. angustifolia Mich. Suf- fruticose. G. tripétala Cav. Pretty plants with fragrant white or pink flowers. Frame.—(@nothéra ZL. aniséloba Sweet, B. F.G. t. 105. A beautiful erect species, from 2 to 3 ft. high, with flowers resembling @. taraxacifolia Sweet. Frame; easily increased by cuttings of the root. Salicarie Juss., Lindl. Int. p. 59. Ctphea Jacq. Llavea, Llave et Lexarc. Bot. Reg. t. 1386. It is 2 lovely border shrub for the summer months, enlivened with beautiful crimson blossoms from July to October. Cuttings ; frame. It is erroneously called a herbaceous plant in the work above quoted. —G, Penny, A.L.S. (heretofore Alpha). (To be concluded in next Number.) H 4 104 Provincial Nurseries : — Art. X. Provincial Nurseries. - Iv is our intention in future to have a standing article on this subject, at least till we can notice all the country nurseries of Great Britain and Ire- land. We shall commence with a few particulars of some of those which we visited during our late tour; arranging them under their respective counties, as we do the Provincial Societies, omitting all those within twenty miles of London as Metropolitan Nurseries. To complete our intention, we must request of our readers to send us accounts of all the nurseries, large or small, long established or recent, in both Great Britain and Ireland, ef which statements have not already appeared in this Magazine, or of which the statements have been incorrect or incomplete up to the present time. We request — J. The name of the place. 2. The date of the foundation of the nursery, and by whom it was founded. 3. The name of the present proprietor. 4. The extent in statute acres. 5. Whether seeds are dealt in. 6. The quantity of glass and buildings. 7. The general scope and purpose of the nursery; the articles in which it excels; those which are chiefly cultivated, and similar particulars. 8. Whether, and to what extent, the new fruits, especially pears, which have been introduced by the Horticultural Society, have been propagated. 9. Whether, and to what extent, there are stock plants of fruit trees, from which to take grafts and cuttings. 10. Whether, and to what extent, there is an arboretum ; that is, speci- men plants of trees and shrubs. 11. Whether seeds are grown, and what kinds chiefly. 12. Whether there is a garden library, and, if there is, the number of volumes, &e. We have particularly to request, whatever botanic names may be made use of in giving the notices wanted, or in sending lists of rare plants in par- ticular nurseries, either that the names made use of may be those of our Hortus Britdnnicus, or that the authorities for the names may be given after them. Every account should be accompanied by the real name (which will be kept private, if desired) of the writer. The good effects which we think will result from such an account of alk the provincial nurseries as we contemplate are various. It will facilitate commercial exchanges among the nurserymen, both provincial and metro- politan ; and it will show country gentlemen what they can get in their immediate neighbourhoods, and thus enable them to encourage local nur- serymen ; who, in order to preserve the patronage thus obtained, will neces- sarily be more anxious to procure the newest fruits, trees, and plants from the nurserymen of the metropolis. The result of the whole will be a more rapid and extended circulation of every new and valuable production and improvement in gardening, with more profit to commercial men, and less expense to purchasers. The profit will be more, because, more articles being made known to country gentlemen, and being at their hands, more will be purchased by them; and the expense to purchasers will be less, not only because a country nursery can grow articles cheaper than a metropo-. litan one, but because articles sent from a distant nursery have always the additional charges of package and carriage; and because a certain per centage of all plants subjected to distant carriage never fail to die. Cheshire. 105 There is a notion very general amongst country gentlemen, that every thing is got of better quality from the metropolis than it can be had from any little place in the country. If this is true in some things, it is at all events false in regard to plants; for it is obvious that any species or variety of tree is the same thing, wherever it may be grown. The indivi- dual plant may, no doubt, be stronger or weaker when obtained from one nursery than from another; but that will depend upon the soil and culture, and not on the locality; and, so far from the chance of town plants being the best, they are likely to be the worst, from the dearness of land and labour, and the temptation, in consequence, to crowd. plants together. Unless, therefore, it can be shown that local nurserymen misname their plants, trees, or seeds, it must, for various reasons sufficiently obvious, be the interest of persons living in the country to purchase garden articles from their neighbours, rather than to send to a distance for them. In short, as a general principle, it is the interest of landed proprietors to encourage local tradesmen and local merit of every description. It is only in an early stage of the improvement of a country, that wealth and talents are necessarily concentrated in the capital. As improvement be- comes general, trades, manufactures, and skill of every kind, become com- paratively equalised over a whole state. We recommend, therefore, not merely the employment of local labourers and tradesmen, but of artists and scientific men ; provided always that these scientific men and artists have travelled, and spent some time in the study of their profession or art in some capital town. Reading and extensive travel will, indeed, almost supersede the latter means of improvement in engineers, architects, and painters ; and, if gardeners could afford it, it would have the same effect on them. As they generally cannot, however, the next resource is their serving as journeymen in some garden in the neighbourhood of the metro- polis ; within 20 miles of which are concentrated more species of plants, and a greater variety of other garden productions, and modes of garden- ing, and more gardeners of every description, than are to be found in any other circuit of equal extent in any country. While we recommend gen- ' tlemen, therefore, to purchase their plants, trees, and seeds, as much as they can, from local nurserymen, we would not recommend them to em- ploy local gardeners who have never been from home. But the metropolitan nurserymen will ask how this doctrine is to be reconciled with their prosperity. We answer, that whatever contributes to the prosperity of country nurserymen will produce a corresponding effect upon those of the metropolis and other capital cities; since the former must necessarily depend on the latter for their wholesale pur- chases, of seeds more especially, and of all new things. The London and Edinburgh nursery and seedsmen, therefore, must,.in conformity with the natural progress of things, prepare themselves for living by the country nurserymen as wholesale customers, and depending upon their immediate neighbourhoods for their retail business. In the present Number, we can only spare room to notice such of the nurseries as have made good their promises to furnish us with lists. ENGLAND. CHESHIRE. The Bache Pool Nursery, near Chester, Messrs. F. and J. Dickson, containing upwards of 50 acres, was commenced in 1816, by the present occupiers. It was formed by breaking up some pasture fields of sandy soil, and laying them out in parallel strips, and small squares, sheltered by payels thorn, hornbeam, yew, and holly hedges. Every description of ardy article is cultivated on an extensive scale. There are some green- 106 Provincial Nurseries : — houses, and-a considerable extent of pits ; but house plants are considered as only secondary objects. Mr. Francis Dickson is a most enthusiastic lover of plants, and a good practical botanist ; he has accordingly col- lected together an excellent assortment of herbaceous plants, including a great many rare and good articles, a number of them not to be found any where else. The following select list has been sent us, at our request. Before introducing it, we shall only mention, that when looking over the nursery on the 4th of July last, we were much struck with the largeness of the stock of some of the more rare and difficultly-managed species. Aconitum voliubile. Anemone patens, vanunculoides. narcissifidra. thalictrdides. pléno[ Thatictrum ane- -mondéides and v. pl. ] palmata. vernalis. Haller?. baldénsis. ochoténsis. virginica. tulipiflora. Antirrhinum pildsum [Lina- ria pildsa]. triornithéphorum [Lina- ria triornitho6phora]. A*‘rum triphyllum, tenuifdlium. Aquilégia canadensis, can, pumila. purpurea, alpina. alpina var. atropurpurea. glandulosa. glandulosa var. atropurpurea. Aster alpinus. alp. albus. major. dichétomus, dich. albus. gravéolens., tataricus. Arnopdgon Dalechampzi. Ascleépias tuberdsa, palchra. nivea. Astragalus uralensis. alopecuréides, monspessulanus, vimineus. Onobrychis. Apécynum venétum. hypericifolium. androsemifolium. rabrum. Anthyllis montana, Adiantum pedatum. Andrésace Chamejasme. lactea. villdsa. lactifldra. A/juga pyramidalis. Amaryllis lutea. Atamédsco. Ammobium alatum, Aleétris farindsa. Andryala \anata, f Antennaria triplinérvis. Apargia alpina. dubia. A’mica montana. Arenaria bifdlia [?] grandiflora, Arétia alpina. Vitaléana. Nags Aphyllauthes monspelieénsis. Arethusa bulbdsa. Adendéphora coronopifolia, Anchisa paniculata. Bletza florida. Botrychium virginicum. Campanula pilla. punctata. stylisa. lactiflora. Ziliifolia. thyrséidea. barbata. peregrina. infundibulum. pulchérrima. versicolor grandiflora. aggregata. mollis. latifolia macrantha. glomerata pallida. rosea. Cineraria fussilagin6ides. Cheldne obliqua 4lba [glabra]. nemorosa. Cimicifuga palmata. Convallaria japonica [Ophio- podgon japonicus]. racemdsa [Smilacina race- mbdsa]. Calceolaria Fothergill7. Calophylum fhalctroides [? Isopyrum.] Cistus Tuberaria [Helianthe- mum Tuberaria }. Claytonéa grandiflora. virginica. caroliniana, Chrysanthemum Achillée. arcticum. Cornus canadénsis. suécica. Cristaria coccinea. eoromla coronata [montana ibérica. minima. Cortisa Matthiolz. Cotylédon litea. Cypripedium Calcéolus. arietinum. spectabile. pubéscens. himile. ventricdsum, Cunila mariana. Célchicum sinénse. Clématis Pallaszz, Dianthus barbatus pumilus, alpinus. arbuscula, Fischéréz Balbiséz. Digitalis laciniata. grandiflora. Dodecatheon Meadia. Me. alba. élegans. gigantéa, Draba aizéides. Draba androsacea. Aizéon, Dracocéphalum dotryéides. grandiflorum [D. altai- ense]. argunénse. Diphylléia cymdsa. Dentaria diphylla. Dryas octopétala. intermédia., Drummondiz. Echinops dahiricus. Epildbium Dodone. latifolium. Delphinium dictyocarpum. Barlowi. sinénse album. pallidum. plénum. cheilanthum. ° Epipactis ensifolia. Erythre‘a aggregita. Erythronium americanum. Erythrole‘na conspicua. Eriophyllum czspitdsum. Eschschéltzia californica. Fumaria ndébilis [Corydalis nobilis]. canadénsis [ Diélytra cana- dénsis ]. Cucullaria [Diélytra Cu- eullaria]. cava, cava alba [Corydalis tu- berdsa albiflora]. Galax aphylla. Galium gre‘cum arcadiénsis ]. Gaillardéa bicolor. bicolor var. aristata. Gentiana gélida, alpina. verna. bavarica. Pneumonanthe. pumila guttata, incarnata. ochroletca. vérna pallida. vérna pallida Alba. asclepiadea Alba. Geranium argénteum. Wallichzanum. sanguineum coccineum. Gerardia quercifdlia. Geramia virginica [?] Gerbéria crenata. Geum sanguineum. potentilloides [Coluria po- tentilldides]. Péckiz [Sieveérsia Péckzé]. montanum [S. montana]. Gladiolus psittacinus. cardinalis, blandus. byzantinus. Globularia vulgaris, [Aspérula Globularia cordifolia. nudicailis, Glycine A‘pios [A%pios tube- Tosa ]. Gymnadénia conépsea. Gypséphila répens. Gondélobus macrophyllus. hirsttus. ' Helénium califé6rnicum. Habranthus robustus. Hedysarum obscurum. , 7dseum. alpinum. canadénse. acuminatum. Heldnias bullata. ‘dioica, asphodelé\des [Xeroph¥l- Jum asphodeléides]. Herminium mondérchis, Hippocrépis balearica. grandiflora. Houstodnza cerdlea. purpurea. serpyllifolia. Heuchéra americana. Hyacinthus botrydides var, alba. amethystinus. Hunnemannia fumariefolia. #iyoscyamus orientalis. Hypdxis erécta. Tris hungarica. verna. Ixia Bulbocddium [Tricho- néma Bulbocddium }, Jeftersinza diphylla. Justicza americana. Lathyrus latifolius albus. califérnicus. venosus. inctrvus. Leucdjum vérnum. © autumnale [ A*cis autum- nalis]. Lidtris élegans. Lilium canadense. philadélphicum. pennsylvanicum. japonicum. longiflorum, spectabile. pyrenaicum. monadélphum. Lophiola atirea. Lubinia atropurpirea. Lupinus polyphyllus, poly. albus. littoralis. tomentdsus. ornatus. plumdsus. lépidus. ‘Lychnis filgens. chalceddnica double white. Lobélia cardinAlis. speciosa. spléndens. Malaxis /iliifodlia. Matricaria grandiflora [Pyré- thrum inoddrum fldribus plénis]. Melissa pyrenaica. Mitélla diphylla. nida. Melanthium virgfnicum.. Michatxia decindra. Monarda Russelléana, Myosdtis suavéolens. Nedéttia cérnua. Nuttalla digitata. pedata. -Gnothera albicatilis. taraxacifolia. Ondésma arenarium, tatiricum, By Cheshire. Ondsma tinetdrium. echiéides, Ophiopdgon spicatus, japonicus. O’robus Fischéré, hirsiitus. versicolor. Pexbdnia humilis. himilis cz'sia. albifldra Whitléyz, ‘tatarica. candida. uniflora. fragrans, Hume. vestalis, officinalis albicans, blanda. Sabinz. atrérubens. rubra. rosea, carnéscens. peregrina Grevillez. compacta. byzantina. paradéxa fimbriata. simpliciflora, tenuifdlia. anémala. decora elatior. Pallaszz. arietina AndersOniz. oxoniensis. mollis. corallina. datrica [triternata]. Riuss?. pubens. villdsa. multipétala. pre*cox. Pancratium maritimum [il- lyricum]. i Papaver nudicaitle. nu. luteum. coccineum. alpinum. croceum. coccineum, Pachysandra proctiimbens. Paris quadrifolia. Parnassia caroliniana. Pentst@mon pubéscens. campanulatus, ca, ruber, leevigatus. digitalis. rdseus. atropurpureus, pulchéllus, diffusus, ovatus. angustifolius. Richardsonz, Scoulérz. speciosus, procérus, glaticus, gracilis. glanduldsus, acuminatus. venitstus, Colvillz. atrérubens, Panax quinquefolia. Phlox pyramidalis ribra. pildsa. amoe‘na. caroliniana. fimbriata, suffruticdsa, bimaculata, pendulina, refléxa. 107 Phidx tefiéxa rdsea, decussata Alba, tardifidra, vérna, oddra rdsea. Pinguicula grandiflora, alpina. Parrya cheirifodlia, Podoph¥llum peltatum, Potentilla spléndens, Cluszz. pedata. Russelliana, Hopwoodiana, Mackayana. Sibbaldza, réptans pléna [? Tormen- tilla réptans plena]. Pothos foe’tida. Pogonia ophioglosséides, Primula cortusdéides, longifolia, helvética. villdsa. Hivalis, scética. integrifdlia, minima, ciliata. Pallaséi. hirstta. Pulmoniria maritima, deprecata. [?] Pyrola rotundifolia, minor. asarifolia. Ranunculus Thora. alpéstris. parnassizfolius, Ficaria alba. pedatus, Rhéxia mariana, virginica. ciliata. fubus arcticus. saxatilis, Sarracétnéa purpirea. flava, Satyrium répens, Saxifraga oppositifolia, oppositifolia pallida, retusa. cristata. daurica. Scabidsa Webhdna [ Astero- céphalus Webbiénus]. Serapias latifolia [Epipactis latifdlia]. Sibbaldza procimbens, Sibthérpia europz*‘a. Sida malveefldra. Siléne pennsylvanica, régia, incarnata. fruticdsa. compacta. Smilacina umbellata. borealis, Soldanélla Clis¢z. alpina. alpina var, montana. montana var, minima. cristata, Spigélia marilandica. Spire a trifoliata. [Gilzénia tri- foliata.] Stachys cérsica. cér. 7dsea. Stévia violacea. purptrea. Stréptopus 7:0seus, Salvia nubicola, rubra, cs 108 Sanseviéra carnea, — Tagetes fidrida. y lucida. TaxAnthema specidca. flexudsa. globularizfolia. Tigridia Pavonéa lites ‘T. conchiflora]. Tradescantia 7dsea. Trientalis americana. Trillium atropurptreum. grandifldrum. cérnum. i séssile. pictum. Tidipa cornvta. Clusiana. 6culus sdlis. persica. Tragopvgon ruber. Uvularia grandiflora. flava. sessilifdlia. perfoliata. lanceolata pubérula. chinénsis [Df{sporum fal- vum]. Verbaéscum Mycinz [Ra- ménda pyrenaica]. Verbena Lambert2, Verdnica multifida. bellididides. corymbosa. apbylla. Viola primulefolia. palmata. pedata. , Viola lanceolata. pennsylvanica, flabellifodlia. blanda. ; reniférmis [Erpttion reni- férme]. sagittata. Wedétlia atirea. Whitléya stramonifolia. Whulfénia carinthiaca. Yuicca filamentosa. fil. variegita. recurvifdlia, gloridsa. aloifolia. : Zigadénus glabérrimus. Zephyranthes vdsea. candida. grandifldra. carnata. GREEN-HOUSE PLANTS. Alstreeméria pulchélla, tricolor. Pelegrina alba. hirtella. acutifolia. psittacina. Andrémeda buxifolia. Salicifdlia. Azalea indica pheenicea. sinensis, Smith. Angelonia salicariefulia. Besleréa pulchélila. Buonapartea jincea, Cactus Jenkinsdniv. Provincial Nurseries : — Calceolaria ferruginea. purptrea, picta. polifodlia. adscéndens. stricta. Gillidna. insignis. Herbertidna. Cypripédium insigne. S venuistum, Chorizéma rhombiidea. Cypélla Herbértz. Cyclamen repandum. neapolitanum. europe2‘um odoratum. pérsicum odoratum. Dione*a Muscipula. Ferraria undulata. Grevillea concinna. Herbértza pulchélla. Nepénthes distillatoria. Oxalis carnosa. Janata. Déppez. 1 flabellifolia, floribtinda, vosacea, Primula verticillata [involu- crata ]. Rhododéndron arbdreum. arbdreum album. cinnamdmeum, Séptas capensis. Salvia Grahamz. Saxifraga ligulata. Sparaxis tricolor. ‘Turnéra spléndens. The above selection from our very extensive catalogue contains only the more rare species, and such as are particularly worthy of cultivation for their beauty.— Henry Turnbull. Nov. 23. 1831. Foreman of the Bache Pool Nursery, Messrs. F. and J. Dickson have a seed-shop in Chester, and deal exten- sively in seeds both wholesale and retail. They have a small garden library, and lend out the Gardener’s Magazine to such of their customers as do not take it in. LANCASHIRE. The Nursery of Messrs. Conolly and Sons, at Lancaster, is chiefly noted for florist’s flowers and of these, more especially carnations and auriculas. Of the latter they have 500 pots of the best sorts known. We found the carnations in very vigorous bloom; and were rather surprised to learn that the large wild bee, when it fixes on a flower bud, and pierces it with its proboscis for the honey at the base of the petals, addles it, and prevents its perfect expansion. Messrs. Conolly were (July 20.) laymg their carna- tions, with pegs of the fronds of Pteéris aquilina, and leaving every other layer without cutting off the points of the leaves, for the purpose of ascertaining whether layers with cut or those with uncut leaves rooted sooner. We found a number of new herbaceous plants, and some of the rarer shrubs ; and, intwo green-houses, some good pelargoniums, camellias, fuchsias, Cacti, and other articles. Mr. Conolly, at our request, gave us the following list of what he considers the very best carnations grown in Lancashire : — Scarlet Bizarres: Wild’s Perfection; Lee’s Lady Nelson; Ely’s Mayor of Rippon. Pink Bizarres: Cartwright’s Rainbow ; Wakefield’s Paul Pry ; Gregory’s King Alfred. Scarlet Flakes: Faulkner’s Salamander; Potter’s Champion; Pearson’s Madame Mara. Purple Flakes: Turner’s Princess Charlotte; Leighton’s Bellerophon; Hall’s Major Cartwright. Pink Flakes: Faulkner’s Eliza; Pearson’s Lady Essex; Plant’s Lady Hood. Purple Picotee: Lee’s Cleopatra. Royal Purple: Faulkner’s Earl Wil- ton. Red Picotees: Lee’s Will Stukeley; Pearson’s Childwell Beauty ; Faulkner’s Salamanca. Lancashire. 109 The Walton Nursery, near Liverpool, Messrs. Skirving and Co., was founded by the late by Mr. Bannerman, about 1810, and, on the unfor- tunate decease of that much-respected gentleman, it came into the posses- sion of the present occupier. It contains fifty acres, admirably laid out, divided by main walks and alleys, and sheltered by beech, hornbeam thorn, privet, and holly hedges, and by lines of Sérbus hybrida (Pyrus pinnatifida), torminalis, &c. ; trees which, unlike most others, have the habit of growing perfectly erect m the most exposed situations, and even in places where the winds blow from one quarter the greater part of the year. All hardy articles are cultivated in this nursery, and forest trees to a great extent. Seeds are dealt in, and some sorts are grown. There are two or three green-houses, and a number of pits. We refer to Vol. VIL. p. 556., for what we have said, both of this nursery and that at Bache Pool. The following are the notes we took on the spot : —“ July 13. Observed a fine plant of Escallonia rubra, first introduced by Mr. Shepherd, a rather ten- der evergreen, which flowers ail the summer season ; Hibiscus /iliiflorus in the green-house, which continues beautifully in flower all the year; Co- laimnea scandens; Hibiscus pulchéllus; Corrz‘a pulchélla, a very large specimen; a singular speckled variety of balsam, first raised by a person in the neighbourhood; Hunnemannia; Stenochilus maculatus; Calandrinia srandiflora; Pergularia odoratissima; Solandra grandiflora; Passiflora incarnata, with large round fruit; Cuphea Melvill; a new species of Cal- ceolaria, from Lima, not yet flowered. Catananche bicolor; Stmsia Lysi- machia (Lubinia) atropurptrea; Alstreeméria Pelegrina, very fine; two new spireeas; Smilacina umbellata, Planéra sp. Fine georginas, the tall sorts tied to three stakes joined at top; saw one grafted by inarching. German stocks, forty-eight varieties from Holland. Rhododendrons, grown in quantities, to supply the demand in that neighbourhood for them as underwood shrubs. Messrs. Skirving and Co. grow an improved variety of Swedish turnip for seed: one of these turnips weighed 27 Ibs. Roses propagated by cuttings of the root. Different species of elms and Planéra. Fine evergreen oak from Mr. Hodgins of Wicklow. Mr. Smith, the botanic foreman, who has been some years in France, Spain, and Portugal, says he never saw any place where things grow with such luxuriance as in Hod- gins’s Wicklow Nursery: even cuttings of holly, a foot long “ laid in by the heels,” in bundles, strike root almost immediately. Mr. Smith has tried herbaceous grafting on various things with success. Lucerne is grown here for the horses employed for the nursery, and three good cuttings of it have been obtained in one season. The following List of afew Shrubs and Trees in the Walton Nursery was made out for us by Mr. Dall. A’cer pennsylvanicum. /f/sculus Hippocastanum, gold- striped and silver-striped. Alnus crispa. Aralia spinosa. Aristotélia Mdcqué, striped. Bétula populifdlia, grows very large. Biguinia radicans major. C4rpinus Bétulus, cut-leaved variety. Castanea vesca, gold and silver striped. C¥tisus,many good sorts, graft- ed as standards. Crate*gus, or thorn, thirty good sorts. Cotoneaster, different sorts. Hippéphae canadensis and si- _ birica. ? Tex Aquifdlium, or holly, recirva, balearica, opica, Hodgins’s large green, Hod- gins’s long-spined, Davies’s seedling light green, setrati- fdlia, and forty other gold and silver varieties of holly. Tex Perado. Jasminum pubigerum. Tatrus nobilis var. margina.- tus, and willow-leaved. Méspilus Chameméspilus and grandiflora. “Philadélph us grandifldrus and gracilis. Populus macrophylla, hetero- pbylla, and candicans. Planéra Richard and Gmelinz. Cérasus péndula, a_ broad- leaved variety, fruiting in August, « Pyrus eleagnifdlia, baccata, splria, pre‘cox, amygidali- formis, salicifolia, and Poll- véria [Bollwylleriana Dec. ]. Quercus gramuntia, Hodgins’s large evergreen, and Lu- combe’s. Ribes cocceineum [? sangui- neum], triste, album, and procambens. Rdsa repens [or ? repanda] and six choice double varieties. P¥rus nivalis, thorn-leaved, canadénsis, hybrida, and twenty varieties. Spire’a bélla, nova tatrica, alpina, trilobita, incarnata, and lobata [lobata isy A J. Ulmus péndula, campéstris, and fastigiata, the Devon. shire or screw elm, 110 Provincial Nurseries : — The Walton Nursery Garden Library we believe to be the most exten- sive in the kingdom, and also the best managed. The articles of manage- ment, which are now before us, appear worthy of being taken as a model for similar institutions. A particular account is given of the origin of this library in our Vol. Il. p. 246. We sincerely wish every nurseryman would imitate the conduct of the late Mr. Bannerman, according to his means: and his situation, and establish a library of some sort in his seed-shop, if only of half a dozen volumes. Weare sure the result would be for the benefit of nursery and seedsmen, by spreading a knowledge of, and taste for, gardening, and by increasing the obligations of gardeners to them. WARWICKSHIRE. The Handsworth Nursery, near Birmingham, Messrs. John Pope and Sons, has been established only a few years in its present situation ; but Mr. Luke Pope, the father of the present Mr. Pope, sen., was the founder of a nursery in the neighbourhood of Birmingham in the last century. The extent of the Handsworth Nursery is not great, but there are several acres belonging to it in other situations, where fruit and forest trees are grown extensively ; Messrs. Pope beimg in the habit of contracting largely for laying out grounds and planting them. There is one hot-house, several green-houses, and a number of pits. The articles grown at Handsworth are chiefly of botanical and floral interest; and the list which we are en- abled to present will show what a valuable assemblage of rare articles has here been collected. Mr. Pope’s father was long famous for his tulips, and he declared on his deathbed that he had spent upwards of 3000/. on them. The collection is now at Handsworth, and made a very splendid display in the first and second weeks of May last: we were shown some sorts for which 50/. a root were given by the father of the present Mr. Pope, and others valued even now at 20/.a root: many of the finest sorts are beauti- fully drawn by Mr. L. L. Pope, for the inspection of purchasers. Mr. Pope, sen., has travelled through the greater part of the United States, and has introduced a number of American plants. Among these is Rosa palustris, the flowers of which are double, and the leaves scented like those of the sweet briar. All the wild roses in America, Mr. Pope informed us, have scented leaves. Every part of this nursery is brimful of interest, from the number of its rarities; but, instead of enumerating them, we refer to the list below, noticing only a seedling Rosa odorata, which flowered within three months from the time it appeared above ground, when not higher than 4in., and with the seminal leaves still attached. The flower was odoriferous like the parent. In the hot-house there is a large cinnamon tree, and a fine specimen of Ornithégalum caudatum. Among the hardy shrubs, a tree pzeony, received direct from China, single-flowered, and dif- ferent from any peony yet introduced. Calceolaria Fotherg{lld, kept through” the winter in the open border; a small hand-glass being first put over the plant to keep a portion of air round it, to prevent injury from damp, and over the hand-glass a quantity of moss for warmth, the whole being covered by turning a flower-pot down over it to keep out the rain and snow. thododéndron arboreum has stood several winters in a sheltered border, without any protection whatever. On the 7th of May, last year, the young shoots on the top of the plant were killed by the frost, while the young shoots on the layers, and all the old leaves on the plants, escaped unhurt. A tree peony grafted on the root of acommon peony has always produced flowers larger than those propagated in the common way. The American ground is laid out in winding walks, in the manner of a labyrinth. For some other particulars, see Vol. VII. p.410. The following lists being nearly a year old, Messrs. Pope could, no doubt, add to them, were they to revise them up to the present time ; but one use of our article “ Provincial *4 Warwickshire. 111 Nurseries” will be, to publish, from time to time, the more remarkable articles introduced by this nursery, the Bache Pool Nursery, the Walton Nursery, the Ayr Nursery, and other provincial establishments. List of Plants worthy of mention cultivated in the Handsworth Nursery. Achillta Gerbérz. Aconitum cerileum. rubéllum. macrophyllum. moldavicum. sibiricum. Alyssum saxatile variega- tum. tortuosum, eréticum. savranicum. micropétalum. Anemine Popeadna. [One of De Candolle’s seven varieties of A. alpina.] Anthemis maritima. Apécynum rubrum. Aquilégia atropurpurea elata. canadénsis var. A’rabis hirstita. lucida variegata. Marshalléana. leptocarpa. Arenaria balearica. fasciculata. A’ster alpinus major. cyaneus. Tripdlium. Adenéphora reticulata. Bletza flérida. Buphthalmum _helianthéides. [Helidpsis Pers. helianths- ides Szwt. ] Calceolaria arachnoidea. Calystégia dahtrica. Campanula glomerata alba. gl. pallida. rosea, alba elata. cerilea elata. gummifera. cephalotes. Card&mine hastulata. Celsza sublanata. arcttrus. occidentalis. Centauréa cinérea. Chelodne major.. Clématis Pallaszé. viorndéides. Coronilla candida. coronata [montana Z.]. Corydalis tuberdsa albiflora. Cynanchum fuscatum. eréctum. acttum. Cynogléssum pictum. Cytisus calycinus. 4 Delphinium intermédium flbre 1éno. Dianthus collinus supérbus. hirtus. punctatus. siculus. Balbiszz. Draba androsacea. alpina. Echinops exaltatus. htmilis. Epildbium alpéstre. Erythronium longifolium St. Eupatoriwm punctatum. Zrysimum crepidifolium. odoratum. Ficaria vérna Alba. Fragaria indica. Fritillaria meléagris fl. pléno. Gaillardéa aristata. ‘ Gentidna Pneumonanthe gut- tata." : Geum ranunculoides. Quéllyon. grandiflorum. altaicum. strictum. Grindélia nitida. Helianthus pubéscens. Houstonéa albiflora, Hypéricum marilandicum. Gebleérz. ~ Androsee*mum pérsicum. Inula alpina. Iris halophila. pomeridiana. missouriénsis. hexagona. prismatica. ptmila litea. Iris ziphidides alba. pavonia. TAmium album variegatum. Lilium lanceefdlium. Linum tenuifdlium. album. marginatum. quadrifdlium. Lobél’a unidentata. upa. rhizéphyta. triquetra. campanuloides. arenaria. L¥chnis suécica. pyrenaica. chalced6nica carnea. alba plena. Mitélla reniformis. diphYlla. Monarda aristata. virginica. canadensis. Narcissus moschatus plénus. Nepeta citriodoéra. Ondsma rupéstre. simplicissimum. Gmelinz. tinctorium. Ornithopus campéstris. Patrinza nuditscula. Pxonia multipetala. Riuisszz. officinalis fol. variegatis. Pentstémon glanduldsus. speciOsus, ventstus. triphyllus. gracilis. procérus. 3 glaticus. acuminatus, confértus. Phlox acuminata alba, refléxa rdsea. odorata rosea. Wheeler purpurea. paniculata rubra. caroliniana nova. pyramidalis ribra. pumila. suffruticdsa major. new French. philadeélphica. Coldryaza. Lyodnéz. fimbriata. hybrida. verna, or crassifolia Lod. Phiéx bimaculata. Ingram’s, marilandica, intermédia pra‘cox. cordata. procumbens. glomerata. ambigua. Thompsonvdna. élegans. formdsa. pyramidalis elata, Bricez. acuminata major. Phytetma virgatum. Potentilla Zupindides, strigdsa. sulphtrea, pildsa. candicans. réptans fldre pléno [? Tor: mentilla réptans fldre pleno]. mariana. ornithopoddides, Primula Auricula flbre luteo pléno, variegato pléno, lutea multiplex, the last two raised at the Handsworth Nursery. Prunélla alba. vulgaris 70sea. Rantnculus Stevéniz. tuberdsus. créticus. pennsylvanicus. villdsus, Rudbeckza Newméanni [Cen- trocarpha chrysémela]. moschata. Salix herbacea, Salvia hematoddes. multifida. Halléré, Lyon. Saxi{fraga Gmelinz. Schradeéré. spathulata. Scabidsa dahurica, Scrophularia trifoliadta. mellifera. rivularis, Scutellaria viscosa. Sené@cio adreus, Serratula prealta [Verndnia preealta]. xeranthemdides, alata. Siléne saxAtilis. noctiflora. paradéxa, Stevenzz. tatarica. pubéscens. Statice, Pope’s hybrid, or Pope- 1and. Thalictrum nigréscens. trispérmum. Tradescantéa crassifolia, Trifdlium canéscens. badium. arménium. alpéstre. Tréllius aconitifodlius. Uvularia sinensis [Disporum falvum]. Verbascum australe, condensatum, montanum. holothyrsum. 112 Verbascum visc{dulum. majale. glabrum. Verbena chamedrifolia. ” List of Rare Plants in the Handsworth Alstreemeéria Sims, or pul- chélla. tricolor, or Fl6és Martinz. Hookéri, or rosea. hirtélla. psittacina. Anemone Hallérz. thalictroides fldre pléno ..(fhalictrum anemono6- \des fldre pléno]. Aquilégia glanduldsa. Adendéphora denticulata, marsupiifldra. Calceolaria purpurea. Fothergillz. thyrsiflora. plantaginea. Campanula rotundifdlia fldre pléno. grandiflora. macrantha. Catananche alba. Cineraria sibirica. Cypripédium Calcéolus. pubéscens. spectabile. Dentaria digitata. Dianthus Fischéri. Dodeciatheon Meadéa albifldra. Dracocéphalum altaiénse Sw. altaicum. Erythrolz*‘na conspicua. Hemerocallis falva variegata. HAyacinthus amethystinus. Verbéna pulchélla. Veronica répens. argéntea. montana. Hyoscyamus orientalis. physaldides. Hyp6xis erécta. Iris tuberdsa. 8 Jeffersonza diphylla. Lathyrus californicus. vendsus. Leucdjum vérnum. Lidtris spheroidea. . Lilium longifldrum. pennsylvanicum. japonicum. Lupinus tomentdsus niveus, lépidus. Marica bermudiana. @notheéra tetragona, Ondnis spinosa alba, Onésma arenarium. tatiricum. O’robus sylvaticus. variegatus, Pebdnia lobata. pubens. villdsa. Papaver alpinum. crdceum. Pentst¢mon Richardsdnzé. ovatus. Phidmis tuberdsa. pungens. Phlox caroliniana. longifidra, or tardifldra. canadensis. Potentilla Russellzana. Provincial Nurseries : — Verédnica pinnatifida, canéscens. Vicia Onobrychis.' Viola suavis, &c. Nursery. Potentilla coccfnea. Briénnia. tatirica. Primula minima. Pulmonaria deprecata [?]. millis. c Sagittaria latifdlia pléno, Salvia campéstris. Sida malveefldra. Siléne maritima ddre plino. pennsylvanica. Soldanélla minima. Stachys cérsica alba. co. ribra. Stréptopus vdseus. Statice tatdrica. Tagétes flérida. Tigridia conchifldra. Tradescantia congésta. Trillium grandifldrum. sessile. : Tréllius americanus supérbus patulus. europee“us nanus. Tidlipa sylvéstris, Uvularia pubérula. Viola pedata. pennsylvanica. digitata. Whitléya stramoniifolia. Zephyranthes grandifidra. carinata. Andersodné. . List of some of the Green-house and Hot-house Plants in the Handsworth Acacia verniciflua. lanigera. Anagillis Marryatte. Andromeda buxifodlia, Anthocércis viscdsa. Astrape‘a Wallichi. Azalea sinénsis. indica phoenicea. hybrida. Bignodnéa equinoctialis. Billbérgia fasciata. Bordnia denticulata. serrulata. Bossiz‘a dinifdlia. buxifdlia. Brunsvig7a falcata. toxicaria. Buonapartea jincea. actus Jenkinsdn7z. Calanthe veratrifodlia. Calceolaria bicolor. Nursery. Calceolaria sp. Lima. Cussdnia spicata. Cymbidium refléxum. Cypripedium ventstum. Daviésia wlicina. Dendribium specitsum. Dione*a Muscipula. Escalldniza ribra. bifida [montevidénsis]. multifldra, Eutaxia pingens. Flemingza semialata. Gardénia amece‘na. Gastroldbium bilobum. Gloridsa supérba. Gloxinia hirsuta. Hodvea Celsiéz. lanceolata. Jacksdnia scoparia. Kennédya coccinea. Lambértia echinata. Lophospérmum erubéscens. Magndlia Soulangedna. Mirbéiza. specidsa. Nandina domestica. Oxyldbium retusum. Passifldra racemisa coccinea, cerulea pallida, two seed- lings raised at the Hands- worth Nursery. Pena imbricata. Phyceélla {gnea. Podoldbium staurophyllum. Polygala grandiflora, Pultenz*a stipularis. Rhododéndron arbdreum. Strelitzia regine. ovata. humilis. parvifolia. jancea. &e. &c. &e. List of some of the more rare hardy Trees and Shrubs in the Handsworth Arbutus procera. Azalea, Pope’s supérba. pontica alba, 2 varieties. procambens. Cytisus purpureus albus. Gaulthéréa Shdllon. Pinus dahirica. intermédia. Nursery. Pinus Pichta. Strdbus nana. Rhododendron pénticum pyg- mez‘um. chrysAnthum. fragrans,. Chameecistus. Ribes Dikascha. sanguineum. viscosissimum. ‘Weeping Prune. Weeping Oak. White-flowered Laburnum, &e. &c. &e. To the above lists, made out at your desire, we may add that we grow upwards of eighty sorts of phloxes, and more than fifty sorts of pzonies. Handsworth Nursery, May 20. 1831. The garden library at the Handsworth Nursery ranks among the most complete, and the books are freely lent out to whoever will make a good — John Pope and Sons. use of them. Ayrshire, Stirlingshire. 113 SCOTLAND. AYRSHIRE. The Nurseries and Botanic Grounds of Messrs. Smith and Sons, at Ayr, Monkwood, and Colroy, were founded by Mr. Smith, sen., about 1820. They contain several acres, with a green-house, pits, and frames; and are devoted to a general collection, and more particularly to rare and curious herbaceous plants, and to trees and shrubs. There is a seed-shop in Ayr, and a few seeds are grown. We have already (Vol. VI. p.713.) given a select list of these; and, in one of our earliest Numbers (Vol. II. p. 129.), a list of North American plants, with remarks on their culture, derived from observations made in America by Mr. Goldie, Mr. Smith’s son-in-law, and one of his partners. Mr. Goldie has a small garden at Colroy, in which, in the summer of 1831, he flowered the following species : — Primula pusilla, sibirica, amce-- na, and Palinitré. Cyclamen +ibéricum. Céichicum umbrosum and *bulbocodidides. Galanthus plicatus. Ixiolirion (AmarYllis W.) ta- taricum. Panax trifolia and quinque- folia. Ornithégalum ciliatum H. B. Nuttallza digitata. Habenaria spectabilis, orbicu- lata, dilatata, and fimbriAta. Ixchnis chalceddnica fldre albo *pléno. Peodnia tenuifdlia *fl. pléno, Corydalis bracteata. Malaxis ophioglosséldcs FRananculus xlongicatlis, fri- gidus, cardiophyilus, and cheerophyllus. In his collection are also the following : — I‘ris paradéxa, *levigata, and ptmila litea. Colchicum ¥lze*‘tum. Merendéra caucasica. Leéntice altaica and ves:caria. Fritillaria ruthénica. Malaxis xunifodlia. Hhododéndron lappénicum. Dryas integrifdlia and Drum- monde. Dodecatheon integrifolium. Gerardia quercifdlia. Scorzonéra hinilis. Viola mirabilis and campés- tris Tidipa tricolor, bifldra, and Celsiana. Fritillaria leucantha, and mi. nor. Houstodniéa serpyllifolia. Delphinium grandifldrum var. * Barlowé. Scheuchzeéréa palistris. Anthéricum serétinum. Silene régia. Tréllius caucasicus. Campanula xPallasi@n@ and Saxifraga. In the nursery at Ayr, we noticed strong plants of #2bes sanguineum, Wistarta Consequana, Caprifolium flexudsum, japénicum, and pubéscens, Piptanthus nepalénsis, and a number of other shrubs reckoned rare and valuable in the Lendon nurseries. At the Monkwood nursery we saw a curious collection of herbaceous plants, many of them very rare, growing up, not altogether without weeds, “ in a friendly manner,” as expressed by Mr. Smith, sen., an enthusiastic botanist, and a most benevolent, kind-hearted, and apparently happy man. With respect to the mixture of weeds with rare plants, the former by no means do the injury to the latter that at first sight one would be apt to imagine. Plants which would soon be lost in the loose dug earth of a garden are preserved from extremes of temperature, and from mechanical changes in the soil, by the shade, shelter, and firm and consistent texture given by weeds, especially perennials ; for it must always be recollected, that the object in a botanic garden is not to cultivate plants, but to preserve them. The botanic garden of the late eminent bo- tanist, Mr. Don, at Forfar, is said to have been managed in the same stvle as that of Mr. Smith at Monkwood. There is a small garden library kept in the nursery at Ayr; but the great resource of the Ayrshire gardeners is the Ayrshire Horticultural Library. STIRLINGSHIRE. The Stirling Nurserymen, Messrs. W. Drummond and Sons, held an agri- cultural and horticultural exhibition at their premises during the first and second weeks in December, which reflects the highest credit on these gentlemen, by whose spirited exertions it was got up, more especially as there is no agricultural society in the county. It was held in a large room on their premises, 70 ft. long and 15 tt. wide, with ample light. Their correspondents and customers in all parts of the country were invited to send in field and garden articles; and, accordingly, extensive collections of turnips, carrots, field beet, potatoes, wheat, barley, oats, beans, peas, tares, rye, groats, malt, pot barley, oatmeal, barleymeal, peasemeal, linseedmeal, Vou. VIII. — No. 36. I 114 Provincial Nurseries. wheaten flour, potato flour from frosted and from damaged potatoes, flax dressed and undressed, red clover plants in flower, maize with ears fully ripened, cattle cabbage ; iron ploughs, harrows, and wheelbarrows ; a barley hummeller, a turnip rammer, draining tiles, linseed oil cake; bone dust, coarse and fine; sea weed, different sorts, named; dried specimens of grasses, named; forty-two specimens of grass seeds, named; a collection of rare and valuable agricultural seeds, named. Messrs. Drummond them- selves, amongst other things, exhibited Astragalus be'ticus, the seeds of which are used as a substitute for coffee; Hemerocallis fulva and Sym- phytum aspérrimum, which have been recommended in this Magazine as herbage plants; and the Irish whin, with a view to its trial as green food. [As this, perhaps, mere variety of the common whin seldom, if ever, produces seeds, its propagation would be too expensive.} Among the turnips ex- hibited were two of the white globe variety, weighing 23 lbs. each; of the ereen-topped yellow, one weighed 17 lbs.; of the Swedish, one 14 lbs.; and several specimens of each kind weighed nearly as much. The heaviest field carrot weighed 3 lbs. 3 oz., and the heaviest field beet 8lbs. 80z. An acre of carrots, on mossy soil, weighed 22 tons; on trenched ploughed soil, 29 tons; and on a medium loam, 24 tons. Among the garden pro- duce were the following : — From Castle Toward (Mr. James Sinclair, gardener), a green-topped Swedish turnip, 21 lbs. 80z.; one ditto, 17]bs., manure, bone dust and sea weed; Altringham carrots, some of which were 24 in. long, and weighed 4 lbs. 12 0z.; early horn ditto, 1lb. 80z. each; parsneps, 22in. long, and weighing 3lbs. 50z. each; leeks, 6in. in girth, and well blanched; also Brussels sprouts, parsley, beet, and onions. From Mr. John Rankine, gardener, Kilsyth, an Altringham carrot, weighing fully 9 lbs., and measur- ing 22in. in circumference; four others, same variety, weighing in the agerecate 20 lbs. 20z.; soil, light; manure, cow-dung. From Airthrey Castle (Mr. Cathie, gardener ), turnip-rooted celery, golden beet, 6 lbs. 13 02., and other specimens. From Boquhan (Mr. Reid, gardener), three globe gourds, respectively 61 lbs., 37 lbs. 80z., and 29lbs. 80z. From Mount Stewart, Bute (Mr. Smith, gardener), Altringham carrots, one of which was 4lbs. 4.0z., and 24in. long; one Portugal onion, 1lb., and 15in. in circumference; one Deptford ditto, 13 0z.; flag leek, 6in. in girth, and well blanched; one white stone turnip, 14 lbs.,and other specimens. From Blair- Drummond (Mr. J. Drummond, gardener ), one red beet, 12 lbs. 6 oz. ; green-spotted edible gourd, 15lbs., taken from a single plant which pro- duced 44: fruit, weighing altogether 458 lbs., and producing fruit at the rate of 3lbs. 50z. per day; silver beet, and black-seeded scarlet running beans. From Dunmore Park (Mr. Taylor, gardener), red beet, 9lbs. 8oz. From Airth Castle, two drumhead cabbages, respectively 36lbs. and 31 lbs. From Kippenross (Mr. William Somerville, gardener), drumhead cabbage, 20 lbs.; Savoy, 14lbs.; new Spanish gourd, 20lbs.; tall German green, nearly 5ft. high, and 25ft. round. From Craigforth (Mr. Hugh M‘Coll, gardener), rock gourd and fruited egg plant. From Touch House, silver beet, red beet, and leeks of great size. From Mr. Morrison, Commercial Bank, Stirling, imperial turnip. From Mr. George Chalmers, Stirling, a red onion, 120z.; leeks, 53in. in girth. Mr. M‘Nab, Cowie, very large onions. Mr. A. Allan, Stirling, red beet sown in July. Mr. Kay, Ship- haugh, Bath beet, seed own saving. Coney Park Nursery, drumhead cabbage, 20 lbs.; egg plant ; pumpkins, 29 lbs. each ; German greens, &c. Mr. Colin Wright, Manorsteps, a Portugal onion, 1 1b. Mr. Sawers, writer, Stirling, a Portugal onion, 1 Ib. 33 oz. (foreign growth). Mr. Affleck, Newhaven, Musselburgh leeks, 6 in. in girth. The best standard works, and all the periodicals, both of agriculture and horticulture, were also exhibited. | For more ample details, many of which are of great interest to the Provincial Horticultural Societies. 115 farmer, and for a very ably composed introductory address, we refer to the Stirling Advertiser of Dec. 9. 1831. We consider this exhibition of great interest, as it shows what may be done by any nursery and seedsman of spirit. Were such exhibitions attempted generally, the result, we are sure, would be not less advantaceous to tradesmen than to their customers, and, we believe, would do much to counteract that general notion among country gentlemen, that seeds and plants are obtained of better qualities from London and Edinburgh than from local nurseries, of which, in the introduction to this article, we have endeavoured to show the fallacy. ArT. Xi. Provincial Horticultural Societies. WE are much gratified to observe, froma the lists of prizes given below, that the newest and best fruits and flowering shrubs are spreading rapidly through the country. Of these, we may advert particularly to the Flemish pears; some of which, such as the Marie Louise, Passe-Colmar, Beurre Spence, Glout Morceau, &c., cannot be too often or too greatly recom- mended. Of the old pears, it will be seen that Gansell’s Bergamot has most frequently gained prizes. Of the apples, the Downton, Ribston, and Ingestrie Pippins have been more successful this season than any of the new varieties. We refer, for the other fruits, to the lists. In the Hower department, attention may be directed to the numerous varieties of georginas, phloxes, salvias, and calceolarias which have been lately introduced. Of the carnations, Paul Pry seems the most general favourite ; and of the pinks, the varieties introduced by Mr. Bow, near Man- chester, particularly his Sawarrow. The erythrinas and cacti have been most successful among the green-house and hot-house plants : and the Calampelis scabra and Lophospérmum erubéscens among the climbers. The latter, though quite new. is found every where; and we hope, in the next spring shows, to find that our favourites, /ibes sanguineum, Wistaréa Consequana, and Chimonanthus fragrans, are become equally well known and generally distributed. —J. }V. L. for Cond. ENGLAND. BEDFORDSHIRE. Bedfordshire Horticultural Society.—The show of auriculas was very fine, and the colours very splendid, particularly those of the green and grey edges ; no fewer than 63 pots were exhibited for prizes. The cacti of Mr. Bundyand Mr. Clarke excited universal admir. ation ; that of Mr. Bundy had six varieties worked into one plant, by means of an incision being made in the plant, and the grafts of five varieties being pointed and pegged in ; when, in four or five days, the oozing from the plant firmly cemented the whole together. The apples shown by Mr. C. Clarke were of most excellent flavour; they were gathered when dry, and immediately packed in a wine hamper, having hay at the bottom, sides, and above the fruit, of which there were about three bushels. They were placed in a dry situation, and not disturbed till a week pre- vious to the Show, when only three apples were found decayed. (Cambridge Independent Press, May 7. 1831.) LANCASHIRE, Manchester Botanical Society. — Oct. 5. 1831. Owing to the genial season which we have experienced, the garden fruit was generally much finer than that exhibited last year, and commanded the admiration of all who saw it. Themost remarkable part of it consisted of the pears and apples shown by Mr. C. J. S. Walker of Longford. There was also a very large apple, the name of which was not attached to it, but which was no less than 15in. in circum- ference, and 182 0z. in weight. A Suttontown pear was also exhibited, measuring 153 in., and weighing, we understand, upwards of J3]b. Neither of these fruits, however, belonged to mem- bers of the Society ; and they were, consequently, not entitled to any of the prizes. The Meet- ing was held in the botanic garden. The green and hot-houses of this establishment are receiving fresh acquisitions every week; and, within the last one or two weeks, very considerable collec- tions were received from the royal botanic garden at Edinburgh, the Caledonian Horticultural Society, and the botanic garden at Glasgow. The good arrangements and cleanliness bear strong testinfony to the taste and assiduity of the curator, Mr. Mowbray. Among the prizes were: — Pines: 1. Globe, G. Scholes, Esq. ; 2. Montserrat, E. Lloyd, Esq. ; 3. Otaheitan, G. Scholes, Esq.— Grapes: 1. Black Hamburgh, R. Potter, Esq. ; 2. White Tokay, and 3. Lombardy, G. Scholes, Esq. ; 4. White Frontignac, R. W. Barton, Esq.— Plums: 1. Golden Drop, Rey. J. Clowes; 2. Impératrice, Thomas Markland, Esq. (Country Times, Oct. 17. 1831.) $ Rochdale Floral and Horticultural Society. — July 6.1631. The named prizes awarded at the Third Exhibition were as follows : — Plants. Stove or Green-house: 1. Cereus speciosissimus, G. Priestley, Esq.; 2. Erythrina Crista galli, 1. Lee, Esq. : 3. Pimeléa /inifdlia, G. Priestley, Esq. ; 4. Calceolaria thyrsifldra, and 5. Lilium longifldrum, Mr. James Tate; 6. Pimeléa rosea, G. Priestley, Esq. ; 7. Petimia nyctagini- flra, C. Royds, Esq. — Herbaceous: 1. Gaillardéa bicolor, Mr. J. Ecroyd; 2. Pentstémon pul- chéllus, Mr. James Tate; 3. Dianthus Fischér7, G. Priestley, Esq.; 4. Cheldne digitalis, Mr. J. Hoyle; 5. L¥ychnis filgens, Mr. H. Midgley ; 6. Dianthus formdsus, Mr. James Tate; 7. Pent- st¢mon ovatus, Mr. H. Midgley; 8. Delphinium grandifldrum, Mr. John Whitworth; 9. Cain- panula macrantha, Mr. H. Midgley ; 10. Lychnis chalcedonica, Mr, J. ‘Taylor. — Hardy Shrubs : 1. Andrémeda pulverulénta, and 2. Lonchocarpus rdseus, Mr. R. Schofield ;_ 3. Cal6phaca wolga- rica, Mr. R. Robertson; 4. Calampelis scabra, Mr. J. S. Lancashire; 6. Helianthemum vulgare flére pléno albo, J. Starkie, Esq. ; 6. Escallonza ribra, Mr. H. Midgley. Flowers. Pinks. Premier Prize, Bow’sSuwarrow, Mr. J. Ecroyd. _Purple-laced: 1. Bow’s Suwarrow, Mr. J. Ecroyd ; 2. Bow’s Lustre, Mr. T. Smith; 3. Fryer’s Brilliant, and 4. Sir John, Mr. W, Lodge; 5, Bow’s Claudius, Mr. James Whitworth; 6. Newall Hero, Mr, J. Ecroyd ; 12 116 Provincial Horticultural Societies : — "7. Fletcher’s Lancashire Lad, Mr. T. Travis; 8. Invincible, Mr. J. Wild. Red-laced: 1. Elkin’s George the Fourth, Mr. T. Smith; 2 Faulkner’s Mars, Mr. J. Wild; 3. Faulkner’s Jupiter, and 4 Brundritt’s Humphry Cheetham, Mr. W. Lodge; 5. Thompson’s Princess Charlotte, Mr. J. Ecroyd; 6. Bow’s Maryanne, Mr. H. Midgley; 7. Cheetham’s Independent, Mr. W. Lodge; 8. Lady Grey, Mr. J. Ecroyd. Black and white: 1. Bow’s Premier, Mr. J. Etches; 2. Beauté de Flora, Mr. T. Travis; 3. Bow’s Cicero, Mr. W. Lodge’; 4. Bang Europe, Mr. J. Clegg ; 5. Vicker’s Duchess of Rutland, Mr. J. Dalton ; G. Duchess of Manchester, Mr. W. Lodge ; 7. Bow’s Queen of June, Mr. J. Ashton ; 8. Partington’s La Mére Brune, Mr. J. Etches. —Ranun- culuses. Striped: 1. Quilla filla, 5. Gunner, 4. Mélange des Beautés, and 5. Rose Blanche, Mr. James Tate. Yellow-edged Spotted: 1. Orange Brabangon, 2. Dr. Franklin, and 4. Bouguct Sanspareil, Mr. James Tate. _ Grey or purple-edged: 2. Hosier, and 3. Queen Harbeker, Mr. James Tate; 4. Tendresse, Mr. Joseplr Tate; 5. Mirror, Mr. J. Etches. White-edged Spotted : 1. Darius, 2. Téméraire, and 3. Mignon, Mr. James Tate; 4. Nutmeg, and 5. Condorcet, Mr. Jo- seph Tate. Dark Self: 1. Cassandra, and 4. Defiance, Mr. Joseph Fate; 5. Scarlet and Gold, Mr. James Late. Light Self: 2. Cecil, 3. Amaranth, and 4 Carmine, Mr. James Tate.— Pelar- goniums. Grown with Green-house: 1, Lord Combermere, and 2. De Vere, Mr. James Tate ; 3. Spectabile, I. Entwisle, Esq. ; 4. Anne Boleyn, G. Priestley, Esq. ; 5. Lady Essex, I. Entwisle, Esq. Grown without Green-house: 1. Mount Etna, Mr. H. Midgley ; 2. Daveydnam, Mr. J. Taylor ; 3. Anne Boleyn, and 4. Dennis’s Rival, Mr. J. S. Laneashire; 5. Feronia, Mr. J. Cheet- ham. — Roses. Red Moss, Mr. R. Robertson. White Moss, Mr. Joseph Tate. Red or Blush, I. Entwisle, Esq. Marbled or Striped, I. Entwisle, Esq. Dark: 1. Tuscany, Mr. M. Greenlees ; ®. Atlas, Mr. R. Robertson. White: Unique, Mr. R. Robertson. Monthly: 1. New climbing, and 2. Crimson, Mr. James Tate. Fruit. Grapes: 1. Lombardy, I. Entwisle, Esq.; 2. and 5. Black Hamburgh, C. Royds, Esq. — Strawberries: 1. Keen’s Seedling, I. Starkie, Esq.; 2. Keen’s Seedling, I. Entwisle, Esq. ; 3. Keen’s White, Mr. J. Holland. Culinary Vegetables. Potatoes. Kidney: Unwin’s Kidney, Mr. A. Fothergill. Round: 1. Golden Dwarf, and 2. and 3. Fox’s Seedling, Mr. J. Ecroyd. Extra-Prizes. Cladanthus arabicus, Mr. A. Fothergill. Red Kicney Potatoes, Mr. J. Ecroyd. — Alex. Fothergill, Secretary. i August 10. 1831. The named prizes awarded were as follows : — Plants. Stove or Green-house: 1. Roélla ciliata, Mr. J. Tate; 2. Crassula coccinea, Mr. J Heath ; 3. Calceolaria bicolor, and 4. Alstroeméréa Pelegrina, Mr. J. Tate ; 5. Hed¥chium auranti- acum, I. Entwisle, Esq. F..S.; 6. Lilium longifldrum, Mr. J. Tate; 7. Spigélia marilandica, Mr. J. Ashworth. — Herhaceous: 1. @nothéra specidsa, Mr. R. Schofield ; 2. Campanula pyra- midalis, I. Lee, Esq.; 3. Phléx formosa, Mr. J. Tate; 4. Potentilla Russellzana, Mr. R. Robert- son; 5. Pentstémon angustifdlius, Mr. R. Schofield; 6. Phléx Wheelériza, and 7. Dianthus for- modsus, Mr. J. Tate; 8. Cheldne barbata, Mr. R. Robertson. — Hardy Shrubs : 1. Calampelis scabra, Mr. R. Schofield ; 2. Escallénza rubra, G. Priestley, Esq. ; 3. Coliitea arboréscens, Mr. R. Robert. son; 4. C¥tisus capitatus, Mr. W. Newall; 5. Potentilla floribunda, C. Royds, Esq. — Annuals or Biennials: 1. Clark¢a pulchélla, Mr. A. Fothergill ; 2. Gilia capitata, I. Entwisle, Esq. F.H.S. ; es Collinsia grandiflora; and 4. Schizanthus pinnatus, Mr. R. Schofield; 5. G@nothéra sp., Mr. R. obertson. Flowers. Carnations. Premier Prize, Wilde’s Perfection, Mr. J. Whitworth. Scarlet Bizarres: 1. Wilde’s Perfection, Miss Jane Clough; 2. Friday Night, 3. Lee’s Lord Nelson, and 4. Davey’s Sovereign, Mr. J. Whitworth; 5. Walmsley’s William the Fourth, C. Lee; 6. Waterhouse’s Rising Sun, Mr. J. Whitworth; 7. Duke of Leeds, and 8. Roby’s William the Fourth, George Priestley, Esq. Pink or Crimson Bizarres: 1. Alfred, Mr. J. Walmsley; 2. Rainbow, Mr. C. Lee; 3 Paul Pry, Miss Jane Clough; 4. Memnon, Mr. J. Wild; 5. Woodhead’s Spitfire, G. Priestley, Esq. ; 6. Butcher’s Jolly Tar, Mr. J. Wilde; 7. Potter’s Sir William, Mr. J. Clegg ; 8. Bang Europe, Mr. H. Thomas. Purple Flake: 1. Leighton’s Bellerophon, Mr. J. Walmsley ; 2. Wood’s Commander, W. Turner, Esq.; 3. Hall’s Major Cartwright, Mr. C. Lee; 4. Lady Wilton, Mr. J. Dalton ; 5. Turner’s Princess Charlotte, and 6. Bates’s Wellington, Mr. C. Lee ; 7. Othello, Mr. J. Walmsley ; 8. Godfrey Mundy, Mr. J. Hardman. Scarlet Flake: 1. Madame Mara, and 2. Potter’s Champion, Mr. C. Lee; 5. Woodhead’s Superior, Mr. J. Wilde; 4. Stearn’s Dr. Barns, Mr. T. Travis; 5. Rowton, Mr. J. Wilde; 6. Pearson’s Rising Sun, Mr. J. Whitworth ; 7. Queen Adelaide, G. Priestley, Esq.; 8. Orson’s Rob Roy, Mr. J. Hardman. Rose Flake : 1. Duchess of Devonshire, Mr. T. Travis; 2. Faulkner’s Eliza, Mr. J. Whitworth ; 3. Lancashire Lass, Mr. C. Lee; 4. Lady Stanley, Mr. J. Dalton; 5. Lady Hood, Mr. J. Whitworth ; 6. Su- preme, Mr. J. Hardman; 7. Clegg’s Beauty, Mr. J. Walmsley ; 8. Ruler of England, Mr. C. Lee. ‘—Picotees. Premier Prize, Lee’s Cleopatra, Mr. C. Lee. Red Feathered: 1. Miss. Bacon Mr. J. Whitworth; 2. Will Stukeley, W. Turner, Isq.; 3. Hird’s Alpha, Mr. A. Fothergill ; 4. Queen Anne, Mr. T. Smith; 5. Mrs. Roy, Mr. J. Clegg; 6. Childwell Beauty, Mr. J. Cheetham. Red-striped: 1. Lady Nelson, Mr. T. Travis; 2. Bright Star,* Mr. C. Lee; 3. Seedling, Mr. H. Fhomas; 4 Phoenix, Mr. J. Dalton; 5. England’s Defiance, Mr. J. Whitworth ; 6. Conductor, Mr. C. Lee. Purple-feathered: 1. Cleopatra, 2. Princess Vittoria, and 3. Miss Emma, Mr. Cc Lee; 4. Lovely Ann, Mr. J. Hardman ; 5. Lord Wellington, Mr. J. Taylor; 6. Fair Helen, Mr. C. Lee. Furple-striped : 1. Albion, and 2. Dalton’s Molly, Mr. J. Wilde; 3. Lord Nelson Mr. C Lee; 4. Fair Helen, W. Turner, Esq.; 5. Royal Purple, Mr. H. Thomas; 6. Beauty of Bury, Mr. T. Travis. —Gceorginas. Double: 1. Scarlet Turban, Mr. J. Tate; 2. Black Turban, Mr. Ww. Lodge; 3. Blush Lilac, Mr. J. Tate; 4 Crimson Globe, Mr. W. Lodge. Single: 1. Seedling, 2. Middletinza, and 2, 4, and 5. Seedlings, Mr. J. Ashworth. —Pelargoniums. Grown with Green-house: 1. Spectaébile maculatum, G. Priestley, Esq.; 2. Clifford¢a@nmum. 3. Htumei, and 4. Seedling, Mr. J. Tate. Grown without. Green-house: 1. Vilmorinéanum, 2. Defiance, and 3. Denniss Hive, Me. z Ss. Ree: 4. Mocren chon, Mr. J. Cheetham. ; rut. rapes: J. Blac amburgh, J. Lee, Esq.; 2. Tokay, I. Entwisle, Esq. F.H.S.— Melon: Succada, I. Entwisle, Esq. F.H.S.— Gooseberries. Red: L Roaring Lion, splits dere Mr. T. Gee: 2. Sir John, 18dwts. 20 grs., Mr. T. Clegg ; 3. Prince Regent, 17 dwts. 7 grs., Mr. Tt Gee; 4. Briton, 16 dwts. 21 grs., and 5. Lancashire Lad, Mr. E. Elliott; 6. Huntsman, Mr. Cc: Lee. Green: 1. Jolly Angler, 19dwts. 10grs., and 2. Favourite, 18dwts., Mr. E. Elliott; 3. Green- wood, 15dwts. 14grs., Mr. W. Taylor; 4. Ocean, 15dwts. 10 grs., Mr. S. Wilde; 5. Emerald 13 dwts. 13 ars., Mr. J. Clegg; 6. Lord Byron, 13 dwts. 4 grs., Mr. W. Crossley. Yellow: 1. Gun. ner, 18 dwts. 12grs., and 2. Duckwing, 16 dwts. 22¢grs., Mr. E. Elliott; 3. Husbandman, 16 dwts 17 grs., Mr. W. Taylor; 4. Leader, 16dwts. 4grs., 5. Teazer, 15 dwts. 7 grs., and 6. Bunker’s Hill, Mr. S. Wilde. White: 1. Eagle, 17 dwts. 18 grs., C. Royds, Esq. ; 2. First-rate, 16 dwts, 1 gr., Northamptonshire. 117 Mr. W. Taylor; 3. Nonpareil, 16dwts., Mr. R. Crabtree; 4. Queen Caroline, 15 dwts. 13 grs., C. Royds, Esq.; 5. Nailer, 14 dwts. 16 grs., Mr. W. Crossley; 6. Bonny Lass, 13 dwts. 11 grs., Mr. J. Smith. Heaviest plate of twenty : 1. Roaring Lion, 20 0z, 15 dwts., Mr. E. Elliot ; 2. Roar- ing Lion, 20 0z. 3dwts., Mr. S. Wilde. — J. Ecroyd. Aug. 1831. NORTHAMPTONSHIRE. Northamptonshire United FHorticultural Suciety.-—— Apri 19. 1831. Prizes were awarded as under : — Plants. Stove: 1. Céreus speciosissimus, Mr. J. Atkins; 2. Epiphyllum speciosum, E. Bou- verie, Esq — Green-house: 1. Azilea indica alba, 2. Azalea indica purpirea pléna, 3. Caméllia Sasdnqua rosea, 4. Cainéllia atrordbens, 5, C. alba pléna, and 6. Acacia armata, Mr. J. Atkins. — Hardy Herbaceous: 1. Blood Wallflower, Mr J. Holliday ; 2. Lancashire Green-top Wallflower, Mr. P. Cornfield ; 3. Dorénicum caucasicum, Mr. J. Atkins. —Hardy: 1. Lédum ¢hymifdlium, 2. Ulex europe‘a pléna, and 5. Cytisus sessilifélius, Mr. J. Atkins. Flowers. Auriculas. Green-edged: 1. Wood’s Lord Lascelles, Mr. Rt. Orson; 2. Metcalf’s Lancashire Hero, Mr. S. Bryan; 3. Lee’s Colonel Taylor, Mr. J. S. Smith; 4. Warris’s Blucher, and 5. Duchess of Oldenburgh, Mr. J. Atkins. Grey-edged: 1. and.2. Lancashire Hero, 3. Page’s Lord Hill, 4. Blagden’s Duke of Wellington, 5. Grimes’s Privateer, and 6, Kenyon’s Ringleader, Mr. J. Atkins. White-edged: 1. Popplewell’s Conqueror, Mr. J. Holliday ; 2. Hughes’s Pillar of Beauty, Mr. S. Bryan; 3. Taylor’s Glory, and 4. Kenyon’s Lord Chancellor, Mr. R. Orson ; 5. Butterworth’s Lady Wellington, Mr. J. Atkins. Selis: 1. Dixon’s Apollo, Mr. J. Atkins ; 2. Nelson’s Funeral Car, Mr. S. Bryan; 3. Scholes’s Ned Lud, Mr. J. S. Smith; 4. Oddy’s Lady Milton, Mr. S. Bryan. Alpine: 1. King of the Alps, Mr. J. S. Smith; 2. Polycarp, Mr. S. Bryan ; 8. Alpine King, Mr. J. Martin. — Forced Flowers: Mignonette, Mrs. Kerr. Fruit. Apples: 1. King of the Sauce, L. Rokeby, Esq. ; 2. Northern Greening, H. Terry, Esq. —C. Northampton, April, 1831. June 23. Prizes were awarded as under : — Plants. Stove: 1. Céreus speciosissimus, and 2. Gloxinia specitsa, E. Bouverie, Esq. — Green- house: 1. Fiichs¢a virgata (a standard 8 ft. high), Mr. J. Atkins; 2. Fuachsza gracilis (8 ft. high), E. Bouverie, Esq. ; 3. Lophospérmum erubéscens, Mr. J. Atkins; 4 Vallota purptrea, Eb. Bou- verie, Esq.; 5. Salpigldssis atropurpurea, and 6. Gladiolus cardinalis, Mr. J. Atkins. — Hardy Herbaceous: 1. Pxtdnia Whitléyz, 2. Spanish Irises, 3, Bouquet of cut flowers of Esch- schéltzia californica, Aquilégia glanduldsa, Z’nula glanduldsa, Lupinus polyphyllus albus, Delphi- nium azireum, and Gaillirdiw bicolor, Mr. J. Atkins. — Hardy Shrubs: 1. Kalmia latifolia, 2. KAélmza angustifdlia, and 3. Sulphur-ccloured Broom, Mr. J. Atkins. Flowers. Ranunculuses: 1. Queen of Wurtemberg, and Black Turban, Mr. J. Atkins; 2. An- drew’s spotted Seedling, Thesée, La Favorite, Condorcet, and Cedo Nulli, Mr. J. Martin ; 3. Nax- ara, Princess of Wales, Tartar, Thompson’s Queen, Pretiosa, Princess of Wurtemberg, and La Carnation, Mr. J. Holliday; 4. Naxara, Janus, Rhododéndron, Mélange des Béautes, Nariett [?], La Carnation, and Golconda, Mr. R. Orson. — Pinks: 1. Cheese’s Champion, Davey’s Victory, Dickins’s Sir Francis Burdett, Maltby’s Apollo, Patrick’s Eclipse, and Pigott’s Aurora Borealis, Mr. J. Holliday ; 2. Maltby’s Apollo, Looker’s Oxonian, Bexley Ilero, Pittman’s Rising Sun, Cheese’s Miss Cheese, and Davey’s Standard; 3. Knight’s Lady Ackland, Matley’s Apollo, Cheese’s Miss Cheese, Barratt’s Conqueror, Dickens’s Sir Francis Burdett, and Bexley Hero, Mr, . John Atkins; 4. Westlake’s Hero, Davey’s Britannia, Turncr’s Regent, Bates’s Wellington, Barratt’s Conqueror, and Stephens’s Harefield Hero, Mr. J. Martin; 5. Bates’s Wellington, Hum- ber’s Hero, Stephens’s Waterloo, Harefield Hero, Cooper’s Cupid, Cheese’s Miss Cheese, Mr. J. Holliday; 6. Knight’s Lady Ackland, Maltby’s Apollo, WooHard’s George the Fourth, Day’s Queen Elizabeth, Bates’s Wellington, and Maltby’s. Alpha, Mr. P. Cornfield. Seedling, Atkins’s Perpetual, Mr. J. Atkins. — Roscs: 1. Margin Hip, I ndica major, Grand Purple, Burning Coats;. and 2 Globe White Hip, Favourite Purple, Crimson Moss, Brown’s Superb, Pony, Tus- cany, Wellington, and Unique, Mr. J. Atkins; 3. Unique, Blush Monthly, Crimson Moss, Rivers’s George the Fourth, Lee’s Crimson Perpetual, and Globe White Hip, E. Bouverie, Esq. Fruit. Grapes: White, Muscat of Alexandria, W. Hanbury, Esq. ; Black, Black Hamburgh, W. Hanbury, Esq. — Melon, Green-fleshed, E. Bouverie, Esy.—Strawberries: 1. Keen’s Seed- ling, Hon. Mrs. Cockayne; 2. Wilmot’s Superb, Mr. T. Barry. — Cherries, May duke, E. Bou- verie, Esq. Culinary Vegetabls. Lettuce, Bath Cos, E. Bouverie, Esq. Cottagers’ Prizes. Cut Flowers: Pinks, J. J. Ward, Floore. Wegetables: New Potatoes, S.. Masters, Northampton.—C. Northampton, July, 1831. July 29. Prizes were awarded as under : — Plants. Stove: 1. Héya carndsa, Mr. G. Osborn; 2. Acrdstichum alcicérne, Mr. J. Atkins 5- — Green-house: 1 Calceolaria Atkinsiana, Mr. J. Atkins; 2. Fichséa cénica, Mr. G. Osborn ; ° 3, ‘Agapanthus umbellatus, W. T. Smith, Esq. ; 4. Lophospérmum erubéscens, Mr. J. Smith ; 5, Fachséa microphylla, E. Bouverie, Esq.; 6. Crassula coccinea, Mr. J. Atkins. {Hardy Herb- aceous: 1. Lychnis chalcedénica pléna, and 2. Gnothtra missouriénsis, and Pascaléa glatca, E. Bouverie, Esq.; 3. Yécca flaccida, Mr. J. Atkins. : Flowers. Carnations. Scarlet Bizarres (Premium, Martin’s British Monarch, Mr. J. Martin)+ 1. Wilde’s Perfection, 2. Thompson’s Cartwright, 3, Orson’s Rolla, 4. Roderick Dhu, and 5. Sir- Robert Peel, Mr. R. Orson. Crimson Bizarres (Premium, Sir Robert Gunning): 1. Gregory’s Alfred, Mr. J. Holliday; 2, Orson’s Duke of Clarence, Mr. J. Martin ; 3. Orson’s Lord Lieute- nant, Mr. R. Orson; 4. Orson’s Apollo, Mr. J. Holliday; 5. Wakeficld’s Paul Pry, Mr. R, Orson. Seedling, Martin’s Lord John Russell, Mr. J. Martin, Scarlet Flakes (Premium, Ma- dame Mara, Mr. J. Holliday) : 1. Thornicroft’s Blucher, and 2. Orson’s Rob Roy, Mr. J. Martin ; 3, Holliday’s Sir C. Knightley, Mr. J. Holliday ; 4. Potter’s Champion, Mr. J. Martin. Seedling, Holliday’s Dr. Terry, Mr. J. Holliday. Purple Flake (Premium, Turner’s Princess Charlotte, Mr. J. Holliday): 1. Layton’s Bellerophon, Mr. P. Cornfield; 2. ‘Vurner’s Princess Charlotte, 3. Martin’s Defiance, 4. Miss Wake, and 5. Nott’s Alfred the Great, Mr. J. Martin. Seedling, Lord Brougham, Mr. J. Martin. WRose Flakes (Premium, Fletcher’s Duchess of Devonshire, Mr. J. Holliday): 1. Fletcher’s Duchess of Devonshire, Mr. J. Martin ; 2. Smalley’s Wonderful, 3. Strong’s Princess Augusta, 4. Plant’s Lady Hood, and 5, Wiilmer’s Timandra, Mr. P. Cornfield. Seedling, Orson’s Sylvia, Mr. P. Cornfield. — Picotees. Purple (Premium, Wood’s Countess of Sandwich, Mr. J. Holliday): 1. Lee’s Lady Chatham, Mr. J. Holliday; 2. Queen Adelaide, Mr. J. Martin; 3. Orson’s Rowena, Mr. R. Orson; 4. Martin’s Doctor Syntax, and 5. Linnzus, Mr. J. Holliday. Seedling, Lady Isham, Mr. J. Martin. Red (Premium, Princess Victoria, Mr. J. Martin) ; 13 118 Provincial Hort. Societies : — Northumberland, 4, Russell’s Incomparable, Mr. J. Holliday; 2. Purchas’s Granta, Mr. P. Cornfield; 3. Earl of Effingham, and 4. Hufton’s Will Stukely, Mr. J. Holliday. Seedling, Martin’s Eminent, Mr. J. Martin. — Roses: 1. White Moss, Lee’s Crimson Perpetual, New Crimson Noisette, Yellow China, Bizarre de la Chine, Odorata, and 2, Noisette, Watt’s China, Purple Noisette, Fragrans, Stephens’s China, and Greville7, Mr. J. Atkins. Fruit. Grapes. White: Chasselas de Fontainebleau, E. Bouverie, Esq. Black : 1. Black Ham- burgh, E. Bouverie, #sq. ; 2. Black Hamburgh, Earl Spencer. — Melons: 1.and 2. Green-fleshed, E. Bouverie, Esq. —C. Northampton, August, 1831. NORTHUMBERLAND. Northumberland and Durham Botanical and Horticultural Society. — Sept. 15. Among the prizes awarded were gold medals to Mr. Wm. Kelly, gardener to A. Donkin, Esq., Jesmond, for the best-flavoured pine-apple (Black Antigua); and to Mr. J. M‘Queen, gardener to S.W. Parker, Esc., Scots House, for the best double carnation (Sherwood’s Corinthus) ; and silver medals to Mr. W. Kelly, for the best melon (Scarlet-fleshed Rock) ; to Mr. J. Scott, gardener to E. Charlton, Esq., Sandhoe, for the second-best double carnation (Highland Boy); and to Mr. J. Ismay, gardener to C. Attwood, Esq., Wickham, for the best dish of jargonelle pears. The only prize (the variety gaining which is named) among the flowers is for the best exotic plant in flower (Erythrina Crista galli), to Mr. J. Clark, gardener to Mrs. Bewicke, Close House. The following articles were likewise exhibited: — A bouquet of anemone-flowered georginas, from the garden of J. C. Anderson, Esq., Point Pleasant ; Calceolaria integrifilia, from the gar- den of M. Anderson, Esq., Jesmond ; and a dish of Morello cherries, from the garden of Captain C. B. Grey, Styford Hall. (Newcastle Courant, Sept., 1831.) ’ Nov. 4. The bouquets were-deservedly worthy of attention, and much credit: is due to the exhibiters of them, for the production of so many elegant flowers at this late season of the year; the fruits and vegetables were considered to be in the highest perfection, and the number of splendid exotics gave the whole a rich and most pleasing appearance. Among the prizes were the following : — To Mr. James Scott, gardener to E. Charlton, Esq., Sandhoe, for the best exotic plant in flower (Epiphyllum truncatum). To Mr. Jas. Scott, gardener to H. Lamb, Esq., Ryton, for the best six roots ot kohl rabi. To Mr. Jas. Scott, gardener to E. Charlton, Esq., Sandhoe, the best dish of succory (Cichdrium /’/ntybus); and to Mr. 'T. Cook, gardener toT. W. Beaumont, Esq. M.P., Bywell fall, for the best six heads of purple broccoli. ‘The following exotics were exhibited, viz. :—Salvia splendens, Richardia ethidpica, Gloxinza specidsa, Trevirana coccinea, and Epiphyllum truncatum, by Mr. Wm. Kelly, from the garden of A. Donkin, Esq., Jesmond ; Chrysanthemum indicum, by Mr. J. M‘Queen, from the garden of S. W. Parker, Wsq., Scot’s House; Salvia spléndens, by Mr. A. Hedley, from the garden of John Hodgson, Esq. M.P., Elswick Hall; Lophospermum erubéscens, by Mr. J. Iveland, from the garden of W. Donkin, Esq., Sandhoe; Salvia spléndens, and a tine single white camellia, by Mr. A. Simpson, from the garden of W. Losh, Esq., Little Benton. The following articles were exhibited gratuitously, viz.:— A fine dish of white muscadine and black cluster grapes, from the open wall, by Mr. Thomas Watson, from the garden of J. Kirsopp, Esq., Spittal, near Hexham ; and a dish of very large cadillac pears, by Mr. T. Cook, from the garden of T. W. Beaumont, Esq. M.P., Bywell Hall. (Newcastle Courant, Nov. 12. 1831.) OXFORDSHIRE. Oxford Horticultural Show.—Aug 4. Prizes were awarded as under : — ‘Flowers. A prize for a seedling georgina was awarded to J. P. Burnard, Esq., architect, of Formosa Cottage, Holloway, near London. Frutt. Gooseberries. Red (the heaviest 12 berries of each sort): 1. 120z. 2dwts., Mr. J.. Fardon, Woodstock; 2. 11 oz. 15 dwts. 6grs., Mr. Samuel Pain, Woodstock. Yellow: 1. 9oz. 8 dwts., Mr. J. Fardon, Woodstock ; 2. 9 oz. 12 grs., Mr. Edward Bennett, Woodstock, Green: 1. 100z.9 dwts., Mr. J. Fardon; 2. Yoz. 14dwts. 2grs., Mr. P. Pain. White: 1. 1loz. 6dwts.; Mr. J. Fardon ; 2. 10 oz. 10dwts., Mr. Thomas Lucas, Oxford. ~ A handsome seedling cucumber, perfectly straight, and measuring upwards of 2 ft. long, pro- duced by Mr. Burnard, was recommended to notice by the judges. (Oxford Herald, Aug. 13, 1831.) SOMERSETSHIRE. Bristol Botanical and Horticultural Society. — July 21. Among the plants exhibited at the Fourth Show we noticed Roélla ciliata, and Kalosanthes coccinea, from Chris- topher George, Esq. ; Lophospérmum erubéscens, from the Rev. Dr. Swete; Erica viridifldra and Walkérd, from Henry Nugent, Esg.; Plumbago capénsis, and Thunbérgéa alata, from Mr. Mackay. Mr. Miller exhibited two beautiful new plants, Gladiolus natalénsis from the Cape, and Habranthus from Chile, both of which he has sent. to be figured in the Botanical Register. The Gladiolus, being as hardy as the Gladiolus cardinalis, will prove a great acqui- sition to the flower-garden. Amongst the nurserymen’s collection we noticed a beautiful new Calceolaria from Mr. Wheeler of Warminster, and a large Yecca gloridsa and Alstroemtria Pelegrinatrom My. Maule. Some very fine specimens of leaves of the green tea were exhibited by Mr.*Rootsey, gathered from a plant that stood the severity of last winter, on the hills of Breconshire, without any shelter; and Mr. Rootsey informs us that it is as hardy as the common lilac and Chimonanthus fragrans, and will prove a great acquisition to our hardy evergreen plants. The prizes were awarded as follows : — Plants. Stove: 1. Thunbérgia alata, Mr. Mackay; 2. Hédya@ carndsa, and 3. Rdchea falcata Mrs. Isaac Elton. — Green-house. 1. Erythrina Zaurifodlia, John Hurle, Esq. ; 2. Lophospérmum erubéscens, Rev. Dr. Swete ; 3. Roélla ciliata, C. George, Esq. — Hardy Perennials: 1. Campanula pyramidalis, Mr. Elbury ; 2. Fankia cerilea, Mrs. W. Fripp; 3. Agrostémma coronaria, Mrs. ‘W. Fripp.—Hardy Annuals: 1. Clarkéa pulchélla, Rev. T. H. Walker; 2. Zinnia élegans, Rev. Mr. Richards. - ‘ ae ae : Fruit. Pine-apples: 1. Enville, and 2. Black Jamaica, Mr. Pillans; 3. Queen, and 4. Envi W. P. Jillard, Esg. — Grapes. Black: 1. Black Hamburgh, Mrs. CHB Y, Grizzly ee gnac, John New, jun., Esq.; 3. Black St. Peter, Mrs, Cartwright. White: 1. Muscat of Alexan- diia, Mrs. Cartwright ; 2. Muscat of Alexandria, and 2, Nice, Jolin New, jun., Esq.— Apricots : 1, Moorpark, C. W. Bowden, Msq. ; 2. Moorpark, Mr, Helps. —Cherries.:. 1. May Duke, Mrs. H- Oxfordshire, Somersetshire, Suffolk, 119° Vaughan; 2. Morello, Thomas Cole, Esq. — Pears: 1. Citron des Carmes, My. R. Fry ; 2. Green Jennett [?], Mr. Sealey. — Gooseberries. Red: 1. Roaring Lion, Thomas Cole, Esq.; 2. Crown Bob, Mr. Z. Cartwright; 3. Sportsman, G. W. Hall, Esq. Green: 1. Angler, Mr. %. Cart- wright; 2. Ocean, Joseph Parker, Esq. Yellow: 1. and 2. Rockwood, Mr. Z. Cartwright; 3. Golden Gourd, Rev. Mr. Richards. Culinary Vegetables. Celery. White: 1. Mr. Sealey. —Lettuces: 1. Brown Cos, and 2. White Cos, Mr, Gerrish. — Carrots; 1. Altringham, Mr, Maynard, sen.; 2. Orange, Mr. Gerrish. — ‘Turnips ; 1. White Stone, Mr. Gerrish; 2. Maltese, Captain G. Langton. Nurserymen’s Prizes. Green-house Plants : Calceolaria Wheeltrz, Mr. G. Wheeler ; Clerodén- drum fragrans, Mr. Allen. Hardy Plants: Ydicca gloridsa, Mr. Maule; Hydrangea quercifdlia, Mr. Allen. Qlardy Perennials: Sedum spurium, and Lidtris spic’ta, Mr. Maule. Hardy An- nuals : Coreépsis tinctdria, Mr. Maule. Bristol and Clifton Horticultural Society. — Sept. 13. The exhibition of flowers and fruit was beautiful and attractive. The georginas and China asters were particularly splen- did. A large imperial crown, and two baskets formed of flowers, were suspended ona wreath of hops in full blossom; and the letters W. A., a crown, W.R., and an anchor, formed of the same materials, were placed at the top and bottom of the room, and added to the effect. At the dinner, when the health of Mr. Miller was drunk, that gentleman stated that the Society con. sisted cf upwards of 600 members ; that 500 specimens of different productions had been sent that day for exhibition; and that 142. had been taken for admission. Mr. G. W. Hall, who returned thanks on behalf of the committee, drew the attention of the company to the admirable specimens from the kitchen-garden, which were, indeed, worthy of all commendation, and noticed with great gratification the cottagers’ prizes. Myr. Donald, one of the umpires, who is a member of the London Horticultural Society, bore his testimony to the display of fruits, flowers, and vegetables, exhibited that day, which, he said, could only be excelled by the beauty, elegance, and fashion of the assembly who had inspected it. He also complimented the company on pos- sessing in the neighbourhood an establishment matured by Mr. Miller, which he pronounced equal to any in England or in Europe. Among the plants exhibited were :— Fiachséa gracilis, from J. Hurle, Esq. ; Alstrcemérza ovata, and Plectocéphalus americanus, from Miss Bright ; Gros koh] rabi, from W. W. Capper, Esq. ; Zingiber officinale, Salvia spléndens, Fuachséa gracilis, and Mangold Wurtzel, from Mr. Alder- man Daniel; Nerium spléndens, from O. Fedden, Esq.; Mangold Wurtzel, from H. Sheppard, Esq. ; Calceolaria integrifolia, from John Acraman, Esq. Prizes were awarded as under : — Plants. Stove: 1. Gloridsa supérba, P. J. Miles, Esq.; 2. Papyrus antiqudrum, J. Hurle, Esq. ; 3. Trevirana coccinea, Mrs. W. Fripp.— Green-house: 1. Lagerstroe‘méa indica, Miss Bright ; 2. Rdchea falcata, Rev. M. Richards; 3. Hemanthus tigrinus, W. P. Taunton, Esq. — Hardy: 1. Gentidna Catesba%, Rev. H. T. Ellicombe; 2. Phl6x suffruticdsa, Mrs. W. Fripp; 3. Prenanthes alba, Rev. H. T. Ellicombe. Fruit. _Pine-Apple, Otaheite, Mr. Mackay. — Apples. Early Dessert, Kerry Pippin, Rev. Dr. Swete. Late: 1. Yellow Ingestrie, Miss Swete; 2. Crofton Pippin, George Sawyer, Esq. Culi- nary: 1. Catshead, Mr. Cartwright ; 2. Kentish Pippin, H. Myers, Esq. Cider, Devonshire Red- streak, Miss Player. Seedling, J. Fisher, Esq. — Pears. Dessert: 1. Gansell’s Bergamot, Miss Powell; 2. Ambrosia, Captain Langton; 3. Autumn Bergamot, Mrs. M. Phillipps. — Peaches : 2. Double Montagne, Rev. Dr Swete; 3. Galande, Geo. Sawyer, Esq.—Nectarines: 1. Pitmaston Orange, Mrs. Cartwright; 3. Scarlet, Mrs. Clark.— Melons, Netted Rock, Miss Bright. — Fil- berts: 1. White, Mrs. H. Vaughan; 2. White, Mr. R. Fry. — Nuts, Cosford, Mr. R. Fry.— Grapes. Black : 1. St. Peter’s, and 2. Hamburgh, R. Strachey, Esq. White: 1. Muscat of Alex- andria, C.°G. Harford, Esq.; 2. Muscat of Alexandria, Mr. Clark. . Out-door: 1. Syrian, C. G. Harford, Esq.; 2. White Museadine, Mrs. Sheriffe. — Cherries, Morello, T. Cole, Esq. Culinary Vegetables. Celery, Red and White, Mr. Maynard, sen. Nurserymen’s Prizes. Pines: 1. Enville, and 2. Black Jamaica, Mr. Maule. Plants. Stove: 1. Gloxinéa maculata, and 2 Cactus, Mr. Maule. — Green-house: 1. Erica jasminifldra, and 2. Grevillea acanthifolia, Mr. Maule. — Hardy, Hibiscus syriacus, Mr. Allen. — Hardy Peren- nials, Erythrole‘na conspicua [not hardy, surely], Mr. Maule.— Hardy Annuals, Zinnia élegans, Mr. Maule. (Bristol Mirror, Sept. 17.) Taunton and West Somerset Horticultural Exhibition. — Sept. 9. The decora- tions of the room were very elegant ; at the western end were placed two finely covered hop. poles, in profuse bearing: the hops were singularly large and healthy. These were kindly presented by Mr. R. Ham, from the grounds at Orchard Portman, near this town. A star of splendid georginas, of almost every possible diversity of colour, from Young’s nursery, suspended over the doorway of the room, attracted great notice, and was certainly very beautiful. Another star of georginas, of different formation, but of singular richness and variety of colour, from Mr. Veitch of Killerton, appeared over the card-room door; and near it wasa large crown, also of georginas, supplied by the same nurseryman, in which were some superb flowers. Some German asters were much admired ; and some baskets of georginas, from Dymond’s, and from Lucombe’s of Exeier, displayed admirable specimens of that delightful pageant of our gardens. The grapes were magnificent. There were but few melons, but those shown were capital; a small green one, of exquisite flavour, was honoured with the prize. A number of prizes were distributed ; but the names of the varieties which gained them are not mentioned. (Zaunton Courier, Sept. 14.) % SUFFOLK. : Bury Horticultural Society. — Sept. 6. The georginas were remarkably fine. Mr. Nunn’s collection of seedlings was excellent, and so were Mr. Buchanan’s of Stowmarket. Of the flowers not now first produced Mr. Lord bore off the prize, but others approached very close to him in merit. Mr. Barrett’s Susanna and William the Fourth were surpassed by few of the flowers exhibited. Of the exotics, the most curious was the Calceolaria Yotingé7, exhibited by R. Bevan, Esq. Of the fruits, the most remarkable was a noble dish of black Hamburgh grapes, from vines only three years from the eye, trained on Mr. Crawshay’s plan, and exhibited by Mr. G. Thurtell, of Mile-end Cottage, near Norwich, a non-subscriber. Mr. Marriott showed some very fine seedling nectarines. Mr. C. Thurtell of Brandon sent some onions, which sur- passed the growth of the Portugal insize, but they were too late. There was a curious variety of capsicums. ‘The celery was of immense size, but not sufficiently blanched. The honey (obtained by deprivation) was very beautiful: it was exhibited by E. Sparke, Esq. . In the course of the afternoon the Rev. E. W. Matthew called the attention of the company to 1 4 120 Provincial Horticultural Societies : — the plan of the Apiarian Society’; and Mr. Payne, the secretary, reported several cases in which cottagers had received from 32. to 5/. for the produce of their hives this year. It was stated that a market could readily be found for the pure honey in the comb, as obtained by depriva- tion, at the price of 2s. a pound. A liberal subscription was commenced for the purpuse of car- ying the desien into effect, which requires a sum of money in the first instance for the purchase of bees, but will afterwards be kept up, it is expected, by the repayments of the cottagers. ‘Ihe following is the only prize of which the name of the varicty gaining it is given: — Tender plant in bloom: Cérbera fruticdsa, Mr. Wright, gardencr to Lord Calthorpe. (Bury and Norwich Post. Sept. 14.) ae Nov. 27. The fruit was remarkably fine, and very abundant. The varieties of table pears, from the garden of the Rev. Sir T. G. Cullum of Hardwick, were very justly objects of admiration ; a collection of table and kitchen apples, with a dish of German medlars, and French crabs of 1829, 50, and 51, from Mr. Ray of Tostock, were also worthy of notice. The chrysanthemums were very fine, and the bouquets of tender flowers were greatly admired. Among the prizes were the following :— Plant. Tender, in bloom ina pot, Amarfllis psittacina, R. Bevan, Esq. Fruit. Plums, Impératrice, Mr. Garrett, gardener to Sir T[. G. Cullum. — Pears. Table: 1. Passe-Colmar, and 2. Beurré van Mons (Beurre Dicl), Mr. Barrett. Kitchen, Cadillac, Mr. Stacey. — Apples. Dessert: 1 Royal Nonpareil, Mr. Stacey; 2. Braddick’s Nonpareil, Mr. Bar- rett; Seedling, Mr. Barrett Kitchen, Royal Russet, Mr. Barrett; Scedling, Mr. Steed. (Bury and Suffolk Herald, Nov. 30. 1831.) fs Ipswich Horticultural Society. — Sept. 13. The assemblage of choice fruit and flowers was the most abundant ever before exhibited in that town. The Reporter of the Szffolk Chronicle, however, complains that the ladies were excluded from the dinner and dessert provided for the male subscribers. ‘* Why,” says he, “are we not permitted to obtain the benefit of their judgment on the horticulturist’s labours ?””? Among the prizes awarded were the following :— Plants. _Green-house (in bloom in a pot): 1. Nérium spléndens, Mr. Mills, gardener to Wil- Jiam Rodwell, Esq. ; 2. Calccolaria rugosa, Mr. J. Smith. —Wardy; Ipomdpsis élegans, Mr. Charles Garrod, gardener to C. S. Collinson, Esq. Fruit. Dish of Grapes: 1. Black Hamburgh, Mr. George Thurtell; 2. Sweetwater, Mr. James Smith, gardener to D. Alexander, Esqg.— Melon: 1. Gr-en-flesh, Mr. J. Smith; 2. Scarlet-flesh, Mr. W. Turner, Ipswich. — Plums: Coe’s Golden Drop, Mr. W. Alien, gardener to the Rev. M- Edgar. — ‘Table Pears: Gansell’s Bergamot, Mr. Allen — Table Apples: Ribston Pippin, Mr. Garrod, gardener to R. N. Shawe, Wsq. Kitchen Apple: Hawthornden, Mr. P. Jackson, Ipswich. : Culinary Vegetables. White Celery, Mr. Allen, gardener to the Rev. J. B. Wilkinson. Red Celery, Mr. Garrod, — Peas, Knight’s Marrowfat, Mr. Milborn. Cottagers’ Prizes. Savoys, Mr. W. Mason, Kesgrave. The grapes produced by Mr. Thurtell attracted particular attention ; the bunches were of enor- mous size, and the berries exceedingly fine. We understand that his system of cultivating the vine is different from what is generally practised, and is the same as that so successfully pursued by Mr. Crawshay of Honningham, Norfolk, who is allowed to be one of the first grape-growers in England. Of kitchen apples there was a fine display. The most remarkable were, Mr. Jack- son’s Hawthornden; Mr. Bow’s Emperor Alexander ; and Mr. Dunning of Whitton’s Seek-no- further. (Suffolk Chronicle, Sept. 17.) Oct. 6. With the exception of the georginas, the exhibition of flowers was not so good asusual ; but the fruits and vegetables were equal, and in some instances superior, to any hitherto produced. The fruits, particularly the grapes and apples, which graced the table appro- priated to the cottagers, attracted general attention, and were much and justly admired. Among the specimens worthy of notice were, black Hamburgh grapes, and white Cape broccoli, sent by G. St. Vincent, Esq. ; several varieties of apples and pears, by Messrs. Rednall and Bircham, nur- serymen from Holton, near Halesworth ; some excellent out-door grapes, by the Rev. Temple Frere, H. Browne, Esq., and T. Lombe Taylor, Esq.; and a dish of raspberries from Mr. Shipp. We cannot omit to mention how much it appears the wish of the committee to give encourage- ment to the cottage gardener ; and, as the funds of the Society are in a healthy state, we hope to find the rewards offered to the industrious poor man increased in a twofold degree before another season is terminated. The following is the only subscriber's prize which has the name of the variety given : — Tender Plant in bloom in apot, Salvia spléndens, Rev. T. Frere. Among the cottagers’ prizes were the following : — Very curious Calabash, William Catermole, Roydon. Skep of Honey (31 es Susan Hanton, Palgrave; of 28 lbs , —— Flatman, Burgate. (Bury and Suffolk Herald, Oct. 12.) ~~ Nov. 8. _ The following paper on the destruction of caterpillars on gooseberry bushes, from Mr. Smith, was read, and ordered to be forwarded to the Metropolitan Society : — ** Provide two semicircles of wood, sheet iron, tin, or paper, of a diameter equal to the bushes to be cleansed, in the centre of the straight line of which make a notch for the reception of the stem of the plant or plants when put under them; which being done, take of Scotch snuff one fourth, of white hellebore in powder one fourth, of lime dust one half; mix them well together, and with a common spring powder-puff apply the dust from the lower part of the bush into the habitations of the caterpillars, the strength of which will so overpower them, that they will almost instantly fall from their strongholds, apparently lifeless, into the semicircles beneath your bush ; to assist which, give the stem of the bush a smart tap or two, Having cleared your bush of the cnemy, take up the two semicircles, shoot the intoxicated caterpillars in a heap on the ‘ground, crush them beneath your feet, and the work is done, except that it is advisable to cleanse the bushes afterwards with clear lime water. The above is not an expensive application 3 for I suppose that fifty or sixty four-year-old bushes may be cleansed in about two or three hours, and at an expense not exceeding 2s. I recommend the operation to be done while the caterpil- lars are young; forin that state their powers of defence are weak, and consequently the dust comes in easier contact with their vital parts, which causes their destruction to be more easy and effectual.” Among the prizes were the following : — Plants. Green-house: 1. In bloom in a pot, Maurandya semperfldrens, Mr. Block, gardener to Archdeacon Berners; 2. Verbascum, Mr. W. Allan. Chrysanthemums in bloom in a pot, Tasseled Yellow, Mr. Geo. Mills, gardener to W. Rodwell, Esq. Fruit. Out-door Grapes: 1. Muscadine, Mr. W. Allen, gardener to the Rev. W. M. Edgar; 2. Black Prince, Mr. J. Smith, gardener to D. Alexander, Esq.— Apples. Table: 1. Margil, Worcestershire. 121 Mr. W. Allen; 2. Golden Pippin, Dr. Beck; 3. Ribston, Mr. Milborn. Kitchen: 1. French Crab, Mr. J. Smith; 2. Beaufin, Mr. Bird; 3: Beaufin, Mr. W. Allen. — Pears. Table: 1. Cras- sane, Mr. W. Allen; 2. Chaumontelle, Mr. Bird. Kitchen: 1. Black Worcester, Mr. Milbora 2. Cadillac, Mr. J. Smith. Culinary Vevetables. Broccoli: White Cape, Mr. Milborn ; Brown Cape, Mr. J. Sinith. Cottagers’ Prizes. Fruit: Blenheim Orange Apple, Wm. Vince, Elmsctt. Vegetables: Savoy John Barker, Westerfield. is um, Thurtell ot eich exhibited a plate of remarkably fine Uvedale’s St. Germain Pears; ut was not entitled to a prize, because the number was less than the rules specify. ? Chronicle, Nov. 12.) Doge De aan a WORCESTERSHIRE. Livesham Horticultural Society. — Oct. 13.1831. The show of georginas and other autumnal flowers was larger and more splendid than we recollect having witnessed at this time of the year, since the establishment of the Society. The autumnal fruits of every description were so abundant, that the space on the tables was insufficient to contain them, and forms were obliged to be set out on each side of the room, as well as on each side of the centre table, for their display. After the list of prizes that had been awarded was read, the president Edward Rudge. Esq., read a paper of Mr. Charles’s of Harrington Mill, on his method of cultivating the straw. berry and broccoli plants, to whom, for several years past, prizes had been awarded for the largest and best-flavoured strawberries, produced by his mode of manuring the plants, and dressing them with malt dust, as described at large in. his communication to the Society. The following were among the prizes : — Plants. Stove and Green-house: 1. Fachsia macrophylla, Edward Rudge, Esq. ; EY) 5 miniflora, Mr. Clarke ; 3. Mimbdsa sensitiva, Edward Teatees Esq. — Hardy rARnueler a Brwadien cat, Mr. Clarke; 2. Centaurea americana, Mr. Hodges.— Perennials: Astrantia major, Mr. alls. Flowers. Georginas. Crimson: 1, Well’s Beauté Supréme, Captain Holland; 2. Lord Brougham, Mr. Hodges. Deep Orange: Aurdntia specidsa, Sir Charles Throckmorton. Lilac: Royal Lilac, Mr. Balls. White: Mountain of Snow, Sir Charles Throckmorton. Yellow: Le Brillant, Mr. Hodges. Fruit. Apples. Dessert : 1. Wick Pearmain, Mr. Hodges; 2. Downton Pippin, Mr. R. Ccoper; 3. Ingestrie Pippin, Mr. Hunt. Seedlings: 1. and 2. Mr. Hignall: 3 Orange Rennet, Mr. Mount- fort. Culinary: 1. Hawthornden, Mr. Savage; 2. Blenheim Orange, and 3. Morocco Codlin, Mr. Cooper. Cider: Black Taunton, Mr. J. Smith. — Pears.'™ Dessert: 1. Gansell’s Bergamot, Mr. Balls; 2. Brocas’s Bergamot, Mrs. Ashwin; 3. Marie Louise, Mr. Cooper Seedlings: 1. New Moorcroft, and 2. New Meadow, Mr. J.C. Wheeler. Culinarv: Cadillac, Mr. Mum- ford. Perry Pears: 1. Oldfield, Mr. Smith; 2. Red Lonedon, Mr. J. C. Wheeler.— Grapes. Out- door: 1. Miller, Mr. Barnes; 2. Black Cluster, Mr. Balls. Red: Frontignac, Mr. Burlingham. White: Sweetwater, Mr. Day; 2. Muscadine, Sir Charles ‘Chrockmorton.— Walnuts: Early Oval, Mr. Mumford. — Cherries: Morello, Mr. Balls. ) Culinary Vegetabies. Carrots: 1. Early Orange. Mr. Charles; 2. the Altringham, Mr. Paine. —Onions: 1. White Spanish, Mr. W. Haynes; 2. Deptford, Mr. Charles; 3. Blood Red, Sir Charles Throckmorton. — Red Beet, Mr. Paine. —Celery. Red: 1. and 2. Mr. Balls. White: 1. and 2. Mr. Balls. —Cape Broccoli, Mr. Paine. Extra-Prizxes. 1. Seedling Nut, Mrs. Ashwin; 2. Georgina variegata, Mr. Goodall; 3. Ash- leaved Potatoes, 16 pots on 10 square vards of ground, Mr. Wood; 4. Céreus triangularis, Mr. Clarke ; 5. Black Rock Melon, Mr. Balls; 6 Noblesse Peach, Col. Davis, M.P.; 7. Spanish Gourd, 131 Ibs. weight, Mr. Fulton. (Worcester Herald, Oct. 15. 1831.) Worcestershire Horticultural Society. — Sept. 6. The following were among the prizes : — Plants. Stove: 1. Gloxinéa maculata, Mr. Beach ; 2. Thunbérgza alata, Mr. Tapp. — Green- house: 1. Polygala Heistéria, Mr. F. Brown; 2. Fachs7a gracilis, Mr. Cooke. — Hardy Annuals: 1. Schizanthus pinnata, R. Berkeley, Fsq.; 2. Lemon African Marigold, Mr. Cooke. — Peren- nials: 1..Lobélia fulgéns, Mr. Wood; 2. Physostégia virginica, Mr. Fuller. —Tender Annuals: 1. Amaranthus, White Globe, Sir O. Wakeman, Bart. ; %. Browallza, Mr. Beach. Flowers. Georginas. Maroon Colour: 1, Tapp’s Seedling, Mr Tapp; 2. Royal Duchess, and $, Black Turban, Mr. Beach; 4. Tapp’s No. 57, Mr. Tapp; 5. Magnificent, Mr. Beach. Crim- son: 1. Kuzzilbash, Mr. Tapp; 2. Hodges’s William the Fourth, Mr. Hodges; 3. Tapp’s Seed- ling, and 4. Tapp’s Supreme, Mr. Tapp; 5. Jupiter, Mr. Beach; 6. Nutter’s Apollo, Mr. Tapp. Purple: 1. Langlay’s, Mr. Shuard; 2. Isabella, and 3. Helen, Mr. Tapp; 4. Augusta, Rev. T. Waters. Scarlct- 1. Scarlet Turban, and 2. Royal William, Mr. Tapp; 3. Sol, R. Berkeley, Esq.; 4. Aurantia specidsa, 5. Morning Star, and 6. Countess of Liverpool, Mr. Tapp.. Sulphur: 1. Sul- phirea, J. Taylor, Esq. ; 2. New Dwarf Yellow, R. Nuttall, Esq. ; 3. Douglas’s New Yellow, Mr. Tapp. Light: 1. Theodore, Mr. Tapp; 2. Camellieflora, Mr. Shuard; 4. New Orange, Mr. Tapp; 5. Aurantia supérba, Mr. Shuard; 6. Philip the First, Mr. Beach. White: 1. Pracellen- tissima, Sir A. Lechmere; 2. Mountain of Snow, Mr. Tapp; 3. Mountain of Snow, J. Taylor, Esq. — Anemone-flowering Georginas. Quilled: 1. Purple Globe, Mr. Beach ; 2, Crimson Globe, and 3. Dwarf Blood Globe, Mr. Tapp. Flamed: 1. Large Crimson, Mr. Tapp; 2. Scarlet, and §. Painted Lady, Mr. Beach; 4. Spectabilis, Mr. Tapp. Fruit. Pines: 1. Montserrat, and 2. Queen, Mr. Wood. — Peaches: 1. Spring Grove, and 2. Royal George, A. Skey, Esq. ; 3. Old Newington, Mr. Beach. — Nectarines; 1. Red Roman, J. Taylor, Esq. ; 2. Scarlet, Mr. Wood; 3. Elruge, Mrs. Turner. — Grapes. Black: 1. Black Hamburgh, Mr. Wood; 2. Black Hamburgh, Mr. Beach. White: 1. Muscat of Alexandria, J. Taylor, Esq.; 2. Cochin China, Mr. Cooke. —Cherries: 1. and 2. Morello, Mr. Wood. — Plums: 1. Magnum Bonum, R. Nuttall, Esq. ; 2. Green Gage, Mr. Cooke. — Apples. Dessert : Paradise, Mr. Cooke. Seedling: Victoria Pippin, Sir A. Lechmere, Bart. Culimary: 1. Blen- heim Orange, Mr. Beach; &. Catshead Codlin, Mr. Turner.— Pears. Dessert: 1. Jargonelle, R. Nuttall, Esq. ; 2. Autumn Bergamot, Mr. F. Brown, — Nuts, Filberts: 1. and 2. Cob Nuts, Sir O. Wakeman, Part. Culinary Vegetables, Onions: 1. White Spanish, and 2. Silver Skin, Mr. Wood; 3. Blood Red, Sir O. Wakeman, Bart.— Celery: Red, R. Nuttall, Esq. ; White, Sir O. Wakeman, Bart. Extra Prizes, French Crabs, in beautiful perfection, of the growth of 1830, H. Newman, Esq. Honfleur Melon, grown in the open ground, under hand-glass ; and Le Melon Trompe, or Trum- pet Melon, from a ridge under hand-glass a foot square, J. C. Kent, Esq. (Worcester Herald Sept. 15, 1831.) oy i Pe ee 122 Prov. Hort. Societies : — Aberdeenshire, Ayrshire. YORKSHIRE. Hull Floral and Horticultural Society. — Sept. 29. The flowers and fruit were judged by Messrs. Lambert and Carr, Mr. Ely of Rothwell Haigh, and Mr. Hinsley of Henwell. ‘The reporter observes that a taste for horticulture is daily increasing in that neigh- bourhood ; and that the emulation excited by the Society affords a strong stimulus. Among the fruit, the apples are mentioned as particularly fine; and, among the flowers, the georginas. The following varieties are mentioned as having gained prizes : — Georginas. White: 1. and 2. Naine Blanche, 3. Pracellent{ssima, and 4. Mountain of Snow, Mr. Woolley. Purple: 1. Imperidsa, Mr. Wooiley; 2. Daphne, Mr. Bell; 3. Langley’s Purple, and 4. Donna Maria, Mr.Woolley. Scarlet: 1. Bohemia, Mr. Burman; 2. Scarlet Turban, Mr. Norman ; 3. Seedling, Mr. Cankrien ; 4. Striped Turban, Mr. Dobson. Yellow: 1. Squibb’s Pure Yellow, Mr. Cankrien; 2. Wells’s Dwarf Yellow, Mr. Dobson ; 3. Superb Yellow, Mr. Smithson ; 4, Wells’s Dwarf Yellow, Mr. Beecroft. Lilac: 1. Purptrea alata, Mr. D. Brown; 2. Royal Lilac, Mr. Woolley ; 3. Queen of Roses, and 4, Royal Lilac, Mr. Percy. Apples. Baking: Newtown Pippin (weighing 1y oz.), Mrs. Williamson of Kirkella. ating: Ribston Pippin, Mr. Jones, (Hull, Rockingham, and Lincolnshire Gazette, Oct. 1.) ———— SCOTLAND. Caledonian Horlicultural Society. — dug. 31. A considerable number of competitors appeared, and the articles in general were of the first-rate quality. After a careful examination, which occupied nearly four hours, the prizes were awarded as follows : — Fruzt. Three sorts of Peaches (from the open wall): New Red Magdalene, Royal George, and. Noblesse, Mr. James Macdonald, gardener to His Grace the Duke of Buccleuch. Two sorts of Peaches (from flued walls): Galande and Noblesse, Mr. George Shiells, gardener to the Right Hon. Lord Blantyre, Erskine House. Two sorts of Nectarines (either from open wall, hot wali, or peach-house) : Elruge and Scarlet, Mr. John Robertson, gardener to the Right Hon. Lord Gray, Kinfauns Castle. Two sorts of Plums (not generally cultivated) : Caledonian Plum and Red Diaprée, Mr. James Anderson, gardener to John Bonar, Esq., of Ratho House. Three sorts of Summer Pears (Jargonelle, late Citron des Carmes, and White Beurré) : Mr. James Stuart, gardener to Sir John Hope, Bart., of Pinkie. Largest Bunch of Grapes (of any variety, with the name) ; Nice Grape, weighing 6 lbs., Mr. G. Shiells, gardener to the Right Hon. Lord Blantyre, Erskine House. (The Committee having experienced considerable difficulty on this article, recommended that a second prize be awarded for a very large and fine bunch of the white Lombardy grape, to Mr. Daniel Cunningham, gardener to Sir Archibald Campbell, Bart., Garscube.) Largest and highest-flavoured bunch of any of the Frontignac Grapes, Mr. Archibald Reid, gardener to the - Hon. Robert Lindsay, Balearres. Largest and highest-flavoured bunch of White Muscat of Alexandria, Mr John Kinment, gardener to Miss Spence Yeamen of Murie. Best Otaheite Pine-apple, Mr. Alexander Lauder, gardener to Colonel Harvie, Castle-Semple. Culinary Vegetables. Three different kinds of Melons (Melville, Ispahan, and Ionian), Mr. William Oliver, gardener to the Right Hon. the Earl of Roslin, Dysart House. The Committee on home-made wines reported that several kinds had been produced, of excel— lent quality, and that the medal had been awarded for a white currant wine, made by Miss Rus- sell, 30. Abercromby Place, Edinburgh. The splendid exhibition of fruit, comprising two hundred and seventy-seven dishes, was in the course of the forenoon examined by a great number of persons; and among others by several of the members of the ex-royal family of France. Mademoiselle remarked, that, though it was said the sun did not shine in Scotland, there was no occasion for it, for it seemed that fruits ripened there without its rays. (Scotsman, Sept. 3.) ABERDEENSHIRE. Aberdeenshire Horticultural Society. — Nov. 2. The following were among the prizes: — To David Chalmers, Esq., of Westburn, for the best twelve Apples, Ribston Pip- pins, very fine. Robert Burnett, gardener to George Forbes, Esq., of Springhill, for the second best twelve Apples, Downton Pippins, very fine. William Wales. gardener to Colonel Duff, for the best twelve Pears, Swan’s Egg, very fine. John Davidson, gardener to Lord Kennedy, Dun- nottar House, for the second best twelve Pears, Autumn Bergamot, very fine. William Fraser, nurseryman, Ferryhill, for the best six sorts of one-year and for the best six sorts of two- year, Seedling Forest Trees. Alexander Diack, nurseryman, Mile-end, for the best Seedling Apple, grown by himself. An Extra-Prize to the Rev. Dr. Morrison of Disblair, for twelve Walnuts ; the tree on which they were produced was planted upwards of forty years ago. The Society’s large silver medal was awarded to James Wright, Westfield, for his various superior vegetables. All the specimens at this competition were of very superior excellence, and the Show gave great satisfaction to the visiters, who generally expressed that the Aberdeenshire Horticul- tural Society had done more ‘good than any other association formed within the period since it was instituted. (Aberdeen Journal, Nov. 9. 1831.) AYRSHIRE. The Ayrshire Horticultural Society held an exhibition of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, for the first time since the establishment of the Society, at Ayr, on the 8th and 9th of September, under the patronage of Lady Lilias Oswald of Auchincruive. From an ampleaccount given of this exhibition in the dyr Advertiser of the 15th of September, it appears that all the first gardens in the county contributed on the occasion. There were many fine exotics in pots, very superior pine-apples, grapes, and figs ; tomatoes, ripened without a wall, from Craigie gar- dens ; raisin des Carmes grapes, from Culzean Castle; a beautiful specimen of Ficus elastica, from Eglinton Castle; two very large red cabbages, weighing about 2U lbs., from Blairquhan gar- dens; some fine anemone and globe flowered georginas, and the Ipomdpsis élegans, a splendid= North American hardy biennial, from the nurseries of Mr. James Smith and Son, Ayr; a dish of fine cinnamon pears, from a tree supposed to be upwards of two hundred years old, presented by Dr. Mitchell of Ayr; three of the largest cockscombs ever exhibited in the county; and white cucumber and meionella from Annick Lodge. In all there were between four and five hundred dishes of fruit “ of the principal and most esteemed varieties cultivated in Britain.’’ Last Lothian, Forfarshire, Mid-Lothian. - 123 « Among the agricultural articles exhibited were, large mangold wurtzel and bullock yellow tur. nips, raised from bone manure, at Fullarton, by Mr. Aiton; and large Swedish turnips, also raised from bore manure, at Holmston; and mangold wurtzel, Swedish turnip, and a very large globe turnip, raised by Mr. Tennant, at the Shields farm. e The exhibition took place in the County Hall, which was decorated in the most tasteful man- ner, and lighted up in the evenings, a band of music attending. Want of time prevented the practicability of a formal competition, and no prizes were of course awarded; but, as the exhibi- tion is to be continued annually, the arrangements for next year will doubtless be more mature. (Ayr Advertiser, Sept. 17.) ; -[Knowing as we do the excellent spirit which exists among the gardeners of Ayrshire, we have no doubt that these exhibitions will be continued with increased splendour and usefulness, and we shall be happy to give them every publicity in so far as they put it in our power, by com- plying with our wishes, as expressed in Vol. VII. p. 626., relative to the names of the species or varieties for which prizes are given. ] EAST LOTHIAN. East Lothian Horticultural Society. — Sept. 6. A very fine Show of the most choice and rare fruits and flowers, and an excellent competition for the following premiums : — Flowers. Six Double Georginas, Messrs. Dods, nurserymen, Haddington. Second Double. Georginas, Mr. Pearson. Two best Anemone-flowered Georginas, Messrs. Dods. Fyuit. Three sorts of Peaches (from open wall): Montauban, Early Anne, and Red Magda- lene, Mr. Mathieson, gardener to Sir David Baird of Newbyth. Grcen Gage Plums, Mr. Arthur Calder, gardener to George Sligo, Esq., of Seacliff. Two sorts of Summer Pears: Jargonelle and Summer Auchan, Mr. George Fowler, gardener to Sir Alexander Hope of Luffness. Largest bunch of Grapes: White Raisin, Mr. George Brown, gardener to the Marl of Lauderdale, Dun- bar House. Largest and highest-flavoured bunch of White Muscat of Alexandria Grape, Mr. Brown. Largest and highest-flavoured bunch of Black Hamburgh Grape, Mr. Brown. Six Moorpark Apricots, Mr. Gray, gardener to Lord Ruthven, Winton House. Melon: 1. Black Cock Melon, Mr. Alexander Cunningham, Haddington; 2. Spanish Melon, Mr. Matthieson. Green- fleshed Melon : Cephalonian Melon, Mr. Brown. Six Nectarines (of any sort): Murray Nectarines, Mr. M‘Intyre, gardener to Mrs. Houston of Clerkington. Six Peaches (of any sort): Noblesse Peaches, Mr. Brown. Six Figs: Brown Ischia, Mr. Pearson, gardener to the Countess of Hopetoun, Ormiston Hall. Besides the articles sent for competition, the Society was particularly gratified with a collection of various sorts of grapes and stone fruit, sent from the garden of their president, the Earl of Lauderdale, and from Mr. Balfour of Whittingham; and also by a superb assortment of georginas, both common and anemone-flowered, from Mr. Handyside, Fisherrow. (Scotsman, Sept. 17.) Dec. 7. Prizes were awarded as under : — For the highest-flavoured Seedling Apple, raised by the exhibiter, to Mr. John Ferme, Had- dington. For the greatest variety of Pears cf the best quality, fit for the dessert at this season, to Mr. Fowler, gardener to the Hon. Sir Alexander Hope, Luffness, for his Doyenne Gris, St. Germain, Chaumontelle, Marie Louise, Crassane, Beurré de Aremberg, Beurré d’Hiver, Beurré Blane, Beurré Rouge, Bezi de Quesnoi,. Poire d’Auch, Passe-Colmar, and Swan’s Ege; thirteen sorts. For the greatest variety of Apples of the best quality, fit for the dessert at this season, to Mr. Brown, gardener to the Earl of Lauderdale, Dunbar House, for his Rambour d’Hiver, Astracan, Calville Blanche, Court pendu Gris, Reinette Rouge, Reinette Blanche, Royal d’ Angleterre, Pomme de Viclette, Pomme de Neige, Baltimore Pippin, Paradise Pippin, Golden Pippin, Crofton Pippin, Kentish Pippin, Nonpareil, Collector Lorimer, Downton Pippin, Ribston Pippin, Princess Noble, Kerry Pippin, Kirk’s Golden Reinette, Canada Pippin, Knight’s Pearmain, Woodstock Pippin, Sir Waiter Blacket, Lisbon Pippin, Reinette Franche, Reinette Rouge, and Reinette Grise, thirty sorts. Mr. Fowler also obtained a prize for the three best Pears of any variety, Marie Louise, Beurré d’Aremberg, and Brown Beurré; and Mr. Brown one for the six best heads of Celeriac, or turnip- rooted celery. A prize was awarded to Mr. Gray, gardener to Lord Ruthven, Winton House, for the best six heads of solid celery. (Edinburgh Observer, Dec. 13. 1831.) FORFARSHIRE, Dundee Horticultural Society. — Sept. 9. Among the successful competitors were the following : — 8 Several Fruits, the varieties not given, and also for second Muscat Grapes, Seedling Picotees, and Georginas, Mr. James Kidd, gardener, Rossie Priory. First Muscat Grapes, second Black Hamburgh Grapes, and first Muscadine Grapes, Mr. John Dick, gardener, Ballindean. Seedling Apple, and Seedling and Anemone-flowered Georginas, Mr. John Walker, gardener, Airlie Castle. Green-flesh Melon, Mr. William Brow, gardener, Meigle House. Green-flesh Melon and Georginas, Mr. W. Anderson, gardener, Cortachy. Seedling Georginas, Mr. James Kettle, gardener, Glendoick. Green Gage and White Magnum Plumis, Grizzly Frontignac Grapes, Syrian Grapes, variety of Grapes, Jargonelle Pears, and Seedling Carnation, Mr. Thomas Spal- ding, gardener, Arthurstone. Yellow Gage Plums, Black Hamburgh Grapes, Grizzly Frontignac Grapes, White Muscadine Grapes, Syrian Grapes, and variety of Grapes, Mr. Alexander Smith, gardener, Connaquhie. White Magnum Plums, Mr. Thomas Greig, gardener, Melville House. Fotheringham Plums, Mr. David Mitchell, gardener, Carolina Port. Jargonelle Pears, Mr. Greig, Leven. Seedling Georgina, Mr. James Smith, gardener, Ellangowan. Seedling Carnations, Mr. John Hampton. Anemone-flowered Georginas, Mr. J. Kellock, gardener, Kirkcaldy. Mr. Yeamen’s prize for mangold wurtzel was gained by Mr. David Mitchell, Carolina Port. Some fine georginas were exhibited from the Scouringburn and Lilybank nurseries; a fine variety of apples from Mr. Mitchell’s garden, Perth Road ; some beautiful apples and pears from Glencarse ; some seedling apples from Cleppington ; and a large beet, weighing 7 lbs., from Caro- lina Port. (Dundee Courier, Sept. 13.) MID-LOTHIAN. The North Britain Professional Gardener's Society. — Edinburgh, Sept. 14. The greatest number of competitors appeared for the pear premiums, ail of them exhibiting very fine specimens of the jargonelle, which is uncommonly large and beautiful this season. The first prize was given to Mr. William Watt, gardener to Lady Carnegie, Dalry House: the peaches 124 Prov. Hort. Societies: — Stirlingshire, Antrim. shown were also very fine fruit, though fewer were exhibited ; but there were neither plums nor apricots sent in competition. 4 In the flower department the show of georginas was the finest ever exhibited in Edinburgh, both as regarded the quality of the specimens and _ the rareness of the varieties. A most exten- sive and splendid collection of georginas was sent for exhibition by the Messrs. Dickson of Leith Walk nurseries. Tivo plants of the scarlet cockscomb, sent from Woodhouselee garden, also attracted much attention, from the uncommon size and extreme beauty of the flowers; anda basket of the new hybrid alpine white strawberry, sent from the garden of Dysart House, had its due share of admiration, as showing that this new variety of the plant is calculated to yield that most wholesome fruit in abundance, at a period of the year much beyond the ordinary strawberry season. (Scotsman, Sept. 17.) STIRLINGSHIRE, Stirling Horticultural Society. — Sept. 9. The fruits and vegetables excited the admiration of the visiters, and in the flower department nothing could exceed the beauty and variety of the georginas ; the numerous rare specimens of which evinced that the cultivation of that highly ornamental plant is rapidly gaining ground in Stirling and its vicinity. The varieties of flowers, fruit, and vegetables not being given, we omit the names of those who gained prizes ; but among the many well assorted collections produced in addition to the competition parcels, the following are noticed as the most prominent and attractive : — From Blairdr'ummond: Stove and green-house plants, including a beautiful specimen of Himea élegans, standing upwards of 7ft. high. From Tullyallan Castle: Stove and green-house lants, comprising particularly splendid specimens, correctly named. From Keir: Seedling Double Georginas, universally admired. From Buchanan gardens: superior Figs, Onions, and Mangold wurtzel, some of the latter roots weighing upwards of 1U}bs. From Craigforth : Cacti, Fruited Ege Plants, and Gourds of uncommon size. From Mr. Christie, Causewayhead : a Nérium spléndens. -From Boquhan: Syuashes and Gourds, one of which was remarkable for size, having weighed 56 lbs. ; and there is little doubt that, if it had not been cut so early, it would have added considerably more to its weight. It is a curious fact, that it was ascertained to have grown, for seven weeks, at the rate of S1bs. per week. This gourd was of a globular shape. From Airthrey Castle : some immense Tomatoes and very superior Peaches. From Woodlands, near Glasgow: a Netted Melon, weighing 15 lbs. From Dollar Botanic Gardens: a bouquet of named Ericas, &c. From Cadder House: a box of peculiarly rich Double Georginas. From Powis: a basket of Fruit, including some handsome Cucumbers, 5 lbs. each. From Callander Park: Green-house and Herbaceous Plants, comprehending six new varieties of Pentstemons ; four beautiful hybrid varieties of Salpigldssis ; Passifléra alata; Cockscombs ; also very large hot- house Peaches, &c. From Mr. Neilson, Buchlyvie: a plant of Cobbctt’s Corn in full ear. From Ardoch House: Double Scarlet Nastirtium and Fuchsia microphylla. From Messrs. Drum- mond’s nurseries: Double named Georginas, fifty select varieties, chiefly new dwarfs; a Stirling Castle ‘Apple Tree, lately raised from seed, and loaded with large finely formed fruit ; also Pump- kins, Vegeta»le Marrow, Green-house Plants, &c. From Mr. Kay, Shiphaugh: a Tree or Cow Cabbage, 5 ft. high and 18 ft. in circumference: this giant succulent being stationed on the ter- - race ofthe. adjoining bowling-green, and surrounded by enormous competing savoys and Ger- man greens, formed a most imposing group. (Stirding Advertiser, Sept. 9.) Dec. 9. The circular of articles to be competed for, and prizes to be awarded, for the year 1832, which has been sent to us, proves this Society to be in a very flourishing state; and of the competing gardeners, it has been stated to us, that, though the prizes are small, the spirit displayed in contending for them is great. All that is wanting is a little more encourage- ment from the country gentlemen. We observe that a prize is offered to apprentices for the best plan for two ranges of ‘melon pits. This is good. We should also like to see prizes offered to apprentices for the best written article on any professional subject. Gardeners are by no means aware how much of their success in life depends upon the sort of letter which they can write to a gentleman, when they either apply for a situation, or answer an application made to them. We can assure them, that, in nine cases out of ten, their success depends entirely on the sort of letter they may write. Their after success depends on their conduct and professional knowledge ; but we repeat, that their having an opportunity of displaying that conduct and knowledge depends on their talent in letter-writing. We wish young gardeners were as fully aware of this fact as we are ourselves. They would then give their best hours of leisure to English grammar. We earnestly recommend to them what Cobbett has said on this subject in his Advice to Young Men, §.44. & 45. No master, worthy of respect himself, ever treated a servant disrespectfully who could write well, and converse sensibly. a IRELAND. ANTRIM. Belfast Horticultwral Society. — Sept. 6. The display of fruit, flowers, and vegetables was truly grand, embracing some of the finest specimens, and in the greatest varicty, we have ever witnessed in this part of the country. _It is truly gratifying to find that this Society, so recently established as to be yet almost in its infancy, has arrived at such a degree of perfec- tion; and.we understand it is greatly on the increase. The room was decorated in the most tasteful and elegant manner with flowers, evergreens, &c At one end of the room there was a beautiful flower-woven arbour, in which was placed a chair of state for the Marchioness of Do- meget and at the opposite end was the orchestra, occupied by the Marquess of Donegall’s fine ban Prize for the best Georgina (seedling, from Irish seed, saved in 1830), to Mr. John Scott, gar- dener to the Marquess of Denegall, at Ormeau. The other prizes, not mentioning the varieties, are not inserted. (p. 626.) ; Horticuitural Society and Garden. 125 Art. XII. Horticultural Society and Garden. Nov. 1. 1831. —The following medals having been awarded to successful competitors at the different public exhibitions to which contributions had been invited by the council, the list was read : — The Banksian medal to Mr. James Young, for his exhibition of upwards of 400 sorts of roses, on June 21. The large silver medal to Mr. Joseph Wells, for a collection of Georginas exhibited on Sept. 6. The Banksian medal to Mr. C. Brown, for Georginas exhibited on Sept. 6. The Banksian medal to Mr. John Wells, for his exhibition of Georginas on Sept. 6. The Banksian medal to Edmund Tattersall, Esq., for Grapes exhibited Sept. 20. The Banksian medzl to John Allnutt, Esq., for Grapes exhibited Sept. 20. The Banksian medal to the Earl of Caernarvon, for Azaleas exhibited June 7. Banksian medals, it was announced, had also been awarded to Mr. Joseph Myatt, for strawberries exhibited July 5.; to Mr. Hugh Fraser, for various fruits, and particularly for a very fine speci- men of the Gerger melon, exhibited Sept. 6.; and to Mr. James Veitch, for Georginas exhibited Oct. 18. Read. An account of the Black Constantia grape; by the Earl of Tyr- connel. An account of the Muscat Eshcollata grape; by Mr. Daniel Money. Exhibited. St. Germain pears, from Mr. G. Watson, gardener to Lord Palmerston. White Corinth grapes, Alfriston and Reinette de Canada apples, from H. Pownall, Esq. Beurré Diel pears, golden pippins, green or royal nonpareils, from T. Hunt, Esq. Specimens of the Muscat Eshcol- lata grape, from Mr. D. Money. A very fine specimen of Cypripédium insigne from Messrs. Rollisson. Also, from the Garden of the Society. Flowers. Verbéna chameedrifolia, Stévia purpurea, Celestina suffruticosa, Potentilla nepalénsis; Salvia pseudo- coccinea, Grahami, spléndens, falgens ; Fuchsza virgata, microphylla; Chry- santhemums, Parks’s small yellow, Early blush, Tasseled yellow, Old purple, Buff or orange; Georginas. — Fruit. Pears: Duchesse d’ Angouléme, Na- poleon, Beurré d’ Aremberg, Bézi dela Motte, Glout morceau, St. Germain ; Doyenné blanc, Doyenne gris; Gendeseim, Crassane, Beurré diel, Berga- motte cadet. Most of these were put in sand, and it has had the effect of ripening them sooner than those left on the open shelves. This must be accounted for by the temperature of the sand at that early period being warmer, and still retaining the summer heat better than the external air. The reverse is the case when the sand once becomes thoroughly cooled in winter ; and, by its steadily remaining so, the fruit then keeps longer. — Fighteen sorts of apples from Mr. John Whiting, Weobley, Herefordshire ; those named the King of the pippins, but called in that place the Orange pippin, were very fine specimens. Nov. 15.— Read. A paper on the Result of some Experiments upon the Growth of Potatoes, tried in the Garden of the Society in the year 1831; by J. Lindley, Esq. F.R.S. &c., Assistant Secretary. Exhibited. Fruit of the Service tree, from Sir Henry Willock. Specimens of A’rbutus U‘nedo, with fruit in different stages and blossoms, from Edmund Storr Haswell, Esq. The Antigua queen pine-apple, from Mr. G. Mills. Also, from the Garden of the Society. Flowers. Chrysanthemums : Small yellow, Park’s small yellow, Two-coloured red, Tasseled yellow, Buff or orange, Rose or pink, Pale buff, Spanish brown, Golden yellow, Golden lotus-flowered, Old purple. J/alva purpurata, Alstreméria acutifolia.— Vegetables. Kohl Rabi: Transparent or glass (purple), do. (green), Lou- don’s Kale, Artichoke-leaved (purple), do. (green).— Fruit. Pears: Chaumontel, Napoleon, Gendeseim, Doyenné gris, Beai de -Montigny, 126 Horticultural Scciety and Garden. Messire Jean, Duchesse d Angouléme, Passe-Colmar. From T. Hunt, Esq.: Beurré diel pear, Hunt’s royal nonpareil apple, Golden pippin apple. From T. A. Knight, Esq.: Seedling pear, No. 2. (from a wall and from a standard). From Harry Dobree, Esq : Seedling swan’s egg pear ; scarcely so good as the swan’s ege. Chile Peppers: Yellow tree capsicum, Red Chile, Small red Chile, Tree capsicum, Piment longue petit tardif, Long Chile, from the East Indies, Long Chile, Long red Chile, Black Chile, Piment violet, Indian small red, Cayenne pepper. Capsicums: Long small yellow, Long yellow, Woolly-leaved ; Piment long petit 4 feuille étroite, do. cornu, do. café; Capsicum annuum, Large long yellow, Bell pepper, Piment gros long about, do. de pimentos, do. ordmaire, Capsicum paprika, Short red, Piment cerise, do. de pimentos, do. carre doux, do. gros long about, do. cerise petit ; Tall cherry red, Small cherry yellow, Upright yellow, Unnamed, Boston pepper, Oval yellow, Small yellow, Cerise gros, American bonnet pepper, Red tomato. Dec. 6.— Read. A Report from the Garden of the Society upon the Propagation of Cabbages by Slips; by John Lindley, Esq. F.R.S. &c., As- sistant Secretary. The second edition of the Catalogue of Fruits cul- tivated in the Society’s Garden having issued from the press, it was announced as being ready for delivery to the Fellows of the Society, at the price of 5s. per copy. Exhibited. Very fine two-coloured, incurved, and brown purple chrys- anthemums, from William Wells, Esq. A remarkably well-blown plant of the double yellow Indian chrysanthemum, from L. Weltje, Esq. A potiron jaune [large yellow mammoth gourd], weighing 153 lbs., from the garden of the Rev. H. Wise, Offchurch, near Leamington; presented by Mr. Car- penter. This was one of a crop weighing altogether 555 lbs. from the same vine. Forbidden fruit, from the West Indies, presented by H. M. Dyer, Esq. Brazil, per bushel - From 23 ah 0 0 2 0 0 6 016 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 Omsie0 02 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 OQ @ o 00 0 00 0 060 00 0 00 0 Oi B 016 00 0 00 0 00 0 (le oo me AOWWPOSCSD wan Seco SceoSsccoeoSosoorn SCOoCaSeoeoS SOOM — _ BIAD WASCWoHMOHe ONSSD SCOCONRSSSSS SCcoococoeo coooo ooco coeccessowp ocSoococoosccoo corcot Sth ° ora So to Crm WOR Ot oe Oo 9ofC090 co CcSoCcCoeoo & = 1D Cre = a ee WOREAAIDH LOOKS — = QWod SCFWMDASOCS — Newtown Pip- Oo wh oe Dm OoMNeSc om cCcOoOCcOoOCcScC OQ © oo co ecooo ccecsceceoso cocesoseo cooco Obituary. 255 Observations. — Having been favoured by open moderate weather throughout the winter months, our supplies at market have been very regular, and the prices consequently moderate. From the present state of the soil, which has been kept cold by the general absence of solar heat, the spring may be expected to be late ; and as the winter supplies of vegetables have been regularly consumed, it is highly probable that the prices for the ensuing month will be higher; and that the forced vegetables will be more in demand, such as asparagus, sea-kale, radishes, rhubarb, &c. &c. Cabbages of excellent quality have been already furnished in good supply, and at a moderate price ; broccoli of the fine early white variety has been abundant, and as the whole crop remains uninjured by frost, it may be ex- pected in still further quantity, which, with the purple and brimstone varieties, so extensively cultivated, will make up for the late coming in of the general crop of spring vegetables. Onions still support a uniform price, contrary to a general impression that they are dearer in frosty weather. Turnips still continue to be excellent in quality, owing to their not having run off so readily to tops, which have not been so abundant as usual, and have been disposed of freely, and to advantage. Our supply of foreign fruit has been very limited, and at rather high prices, as may be observed on referring to the list. Apples, the produce of our own soil, are extremely scarce, a few bushels only from time to time coming to hand ; as the growers can realise more for them in the country, the prices here being much re- duced by the importation of foreign fruit. ; Our stock of winter pears is very small; indeed, we are, in the market, altogether wanting a supply of the better varieties. As yet the culture of the new French sorts has not become general, nor do the growers feel justified in holding them over, in the fear of a supply from abroad. Potae toes are extremely abundant and cheap ; a supply could be obtained equal to any demand, did the prices afford remuneration to the growers and shippers; but the expenses of freight, &c., from the distant counties, and from Scotland, from which we now obtain the most extensive supplies, is so high as almost to insure a total loss of price to the cultivator. — G.C. Marck 20. 1831. Art. IX. Obituary. Diep, on the 16th of July, 1831, Johann Martin Fleischmann, chief su- perintendent of vineyards, and the Nestor of the writers of Saxony. He was in the eighty-fourth year of his age, fifty-seven of which he had passed in official service. He was born in 1747, at Schwarza in the Grafschatt of Stollberg-Werningerode, where his father was a merchant. He devoted himself to gardening, and received instructions in that art from Putmann, court-gardener at Meiningen. He afterwards travelled over a great part of Germany, and in 1775 was appointed court-gardener of what is called the Japanese garden at Dresden. The extensive information respecting the cultivation of the vine which he had acquired in his travels, especially in the districts of the Rhine, induced the Electoral Prince, in 1793, to appoint him superintendent of vineyards. In 1799 he founded the Meissen Society for the Cultivation of the Vine. His writings are chiefly on botany, the cultivation of the vine, the growing of weod, and the rearing of the silk- worm. That insect, he conceived, might be naturalised in Saxony. He also published several treatises on the mulberry tree ; and, conjointly with Nicolai and Riem, translated the celebrated work of Count Landriani on the rearing of the silkworm, accompanied by notes. (rom a German Paper.) 256 Obituary. Died, at Mile End Nursery, on the 5th of January last, Mr. Archibald Thomson, aged 79 years. This eminent nurseryman, who was related to the celebrated poet of the same surname, received the rudiments of his horticultural education under his father, in the vicinity of Edinburgh; and afterwards, in England, im- proved himself so much, that he was appointed botanic gardener to the Earl of Bute, at Luton Hoo, in Bedfordshire. In this, at that time, first- rate situation, his abilities as a practical botanist, and his conduct as a man, not only gained for him the approbation and patronage of his noble master, who was a distinguished lover of plants, but also the friendship of Messrs. Gordon and Dermer, seedsmen in Fenchurch Street, and nurserymen at Mile End, near London, by whom he was invited to superintend the latter department of their business; and was admitted a partner in that respect- able firm upwards of 50 years ago. The Mile End Nursery was at that time one of the first about London; and it was much extended and improved by Mr. Thomson. The collection of hardy trees and shrubs was unrivalled; and very many of our finest American and other exotics were introduced through, and their cultivation determined in, that nursery. Mr. Thomson was excessively fond of fine specimens of his various stock; and, no doubt, had much personal gratifi- cation in their preservation : but he lived to see that, though this was a road to fame, it led not to the reward it merited. Many of these specimens are now on sale, in the possession of his son and successor, and are well worth the attention of collectors who are forming arboretums or public gardens. Magnolia Thomsonidna, amongst other estimable plants, is commemo- rative of Mr. Thomson’s skill and assiduity; and his modes of practice in the propagation and nursery culture of plants will ever remain, as they have long been, the guide of his numerous pupils and brethren in the pro- fession, by whom he was always highly respected. — J. 1. Died, at Woodhall in Lanarkshire, the seat of W. F. Campbell of Shaw- field, on Monday the 16th of January, Mr. Walter Henderson, aged 73. He had filled the situation of gardener at Woodhall for 47 years, justly esteemed as a first-rate practical and scientific horticulturist, and com- bining with strict integrity of character an amiability of manners which endeared him to all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance; while his unostentatious kindness, and facility in communicating professional inform- ation, will be long remembered with gratitude, not only by a numerous list of gardeners educated under him, but by many in the profession who were within reach of benefiting by his friendly instructions and advice. —S. M. G. Died, January 25., deeply lamented by his family and a numerous circle of friends, Mr, James Colvill, nurseryman of the King’s Road, Chelsea, in his 55th year. Died, in London, February 4., the Comtesse des Vandes, who, for many years, was a patroness of practical botany, as may be seen by the numerous plants which have been figured, in the botanical periodicals, from her well-known botanic garden at Bayswater. We regret to learn that the collection is to be sold; as we were in hopes that the count would have retained it, or that some arrangement might be made to keep it up as a subscription botanic garden. THE GARDENER’S MAGAZINE, JUNE, 1832. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. Art.I. General Results of a Gardening Tour, during July; August, and part of September, in the Year 1831, from Dum- JSries, by Kirkcudbright, Ayr, and Greenock, to Paisley. By the ConDucTor. (Continued from p. 134.) In our last fragment, we offered a few remarks on fences in parks and pleasure-grounds, and our present article was intended to be devoted to plantations; but, as there is now, happily, a great spirit in the country for the improvement of cottages, we shall give that subject the preference. The depressed state of the agricultural population in England, the consequent pressure of the poor-rates in some places, and the outrages.of incendiaries in others, have forced the attention of the landed proprietors to the means of ameliorating, or at least quieting for a time, their territorial population; and, in consequence, we have heard, for upwards of a year, of cot- tages being repaired, and land allotted to cottagers at mode- rate rents, throughout most of the English counties. Within the last six months the alarm occasioned by the cholera has caused increased attention to be given to the subject of com-. fortable cottages for agricultural labourers, and to that of the condition of the poor generally ; cleanliness, warmth, proper ventilation, and wholesome food being found the best prevent- ives of that disease. The dwellings of the working classes, and especially those on the country residences of landed proprietors, and in the Vou. VIII.— No. 38. | es * 258 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — manufacturing villages in the west of Scotland, have been cer- tainly somewhat improved since the last time we passed leisurely through that country, in 1805; but they are still lamentably deficient in several important particulars. The causes of these deficiencies may be partly traced to the landlords, who generally build the cottages; but principally to the habits of the occupiers. lor, on taking an enlarged view of the sub- ject of social improvement, it Trill be Pura that the state and condition of every class of men depend chiefly upon them- selves. If the working classes, as a body, determined on bettering their condition, maturely considered the means of doing so, and united in setting about carrying these means into Cie, most assuredly they would attain their end. At the same time, something is to be expected from the benevo- lence of the wealthy; more especially from the employers of gardeners, bailiffs, and other resident servants in country seats; and it is chiefly to these enlightened and liberal pro- prietors, and their agents, that we now address ourselves. The cottages in the west of Scotland may be divided into three disease Those built by small tradesmen, mechanics, or other workmen, for their own occupation, on feued land; that is, land held on very long or perpetual leases, at a rent of, generally, from 10/. to 151. an acre. 2. Cottages built by proprietors, for their servants, as gar- deners, bailiffs, gamekeepers, &c.; for their mechanics, as carpenters, smiths, &c.; and for their field labourers, &c. 3. Cottages built by farmers for their yearly servants. ‘We shall notice what we consider to be the faults and de- ficiencies of each of these classes in succession; and conclude by hinting at an unpardonable defect in the whole of them. 1. Feuars’ Cottages. — The chief objections which we have to these are the two following : —first, the forming of sleeping- rooms in the roof, and making them so small, and with such diminutive windows, that they never can be well ventilated ; and, secondly, the not raising of the ground floors 1 ft. or 2 ft. above the level of the surrounding surface. The importance of a continual supply of fresh air to health, and of dryness to warmth, is not at all understood by the dwellers in cottages generally; otherwise we should not have so many of these buildings with small window-frames fixed in the wall, so as not to admit of opening them for ventilation. A low damp floor is doubly injurious, by the evaporation of its moisture carrying off heat, and by the vapour in the atmosphere of the room diminishing the proportion of oxygen in every mouthful of air inhaled by the lungs. ‘The windows should always be Feuars Cottages, Servants’ Cottages. 259 made large, and their sash-frames contrived to open, either by having hinges, or by being suspended and balanced by weights. The floors should not only be raised, but on all moist soils the material used in raising them should be loose stones, rendered level at top by smaller stones and gravel, and finished either by pavement, or a composition of lime, smithy ashes, and clean sharp sand. Where fuel is very scarce and dear, flues might be formed in these floors, and these might be heated occasionally in winter by fires of brush- wood. ‘The feued cottages in the village of Catrine, in Ayr- shire, are exceptions to most others which we have seen in the west of Scotland, in dryness, light, ventilation, and, in short, in all other respects. The radical cure for these evils is te be found in the scien- tific education of the rising generation at the parochial schools. Once render men fully aware how essential pure air is to the human frame, and how much dryness contributes to warmth, and they will take care not voluntarily to live in dwellings deficient in these important particulars. In the mean time, something may be done towards opening the eyes of the read- ing part of the adults, by cheap tracts, and by essays on the subject in the newspapers and magazines. 2. Cottages built by Landed Proprietors for their Servants.— The principal fault which we have to find with this class of dwellings is, that the taste which they affect to display is too often at variance with the principles of utility and convenience ; and yet nothing can be more certain than that utility is the fundamental principle of all permanent beauty. The beauty of which cottages are susceptible is of three kinds; and must result either from their actual fitness for being human dwellings, from their being outwardly expressive of that fitness, or from their style of architecture. ‘The first of these beauties is technically called the expression of design, or fitness ; the second, the expression of purpose ; and the last, the expression of style. Every cottage whatever ought to display the two former qualities; and what are called orna- mental cottages, or such as gentlemen who possess parks or pleasure-grounds generally erect in them as entrance lodges, or as dwellings for their servants, ought to display the latter. Gothic cottages belong to the ornamental class; but if they are examined with reference to the principles of fitness, or of expression of purpose, they will commonly be found wanting. For example, their windows are low, and do not reach to the ceilings of the rooms, which must always render the venti- lation of the apartments imperfect. Their window frames are filled in with lattice-work ; and these frames shutting against $2 260 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — mullions, or broad upright and cross divisions of the window, must impede the entrance of light. Gothic windows are also, as they are generally constructed in cottages, less air-tight, and the mode of giving air by them is much less convenient, than that by the common suspended and balanced sash win- dows. ‘The reason of these sins against fitness, in cottages pretending to the beauty of architectural style, may be thus given: — The general character of a cottage, as distinguished from that of dwellings of a higher class, is considered by architects to consist in low walls, and, of course, low ceil- ings; small windows, broad rather than high; and conspi- cuous roofs, generally with windows in their sides. We admit, that, taking cottages as they are usually constructed, these features may be said to constitute their character; and hence they would be employed by a painter, or poet, or a descriptive writer, who wished to portray a cottage of the present day. Thus, a certain degree of coarseness and homeliness of dress and manner may be said to have hitherto characterised the British labourer, as contradistinguished from the British gen- tleman. A romantic writer would, therefore, make use of these characteristics; and a poet or a sentimentalist would probably regret their disappearance, and the gradual assimi- lation of dress and manners between the labourer and the gentleman. ‘The fault of the architect is, that he has too closely followed the painter and the man of literature; forget- ting that his art, being founded upon and guided by utility, ought to embrace all improvements, not only in architecture, but in the uses of buildings, as they are brought into notice. The fault of the landlord is, that he has thought of little ex- cept the outside show of his cottages; but it is surely as much his interest to encourage whatever will raise and elevate the character of the people who live on his land, as it is the duty of the architect to consider, not what a cottage has hitherto been, but what it is capable of being made. Putting a servant into a handsome Gothic cottage is like putting him into a handsome suit of livery: but there is, unfortunately for the servant, this difference, that the faults of the dwelling, if it does not fit, cannot be so readily perceived as those of the coat; and nobody may know, but the occupant and his family, how little comfort sometimes exists under a gay exterior. For our own part, we have seen so many ornamental cottages and lodges on gentlemen’s estates, both in England and in Scotland, small, damp, and badly contrived within, that we are compelled to consider them as much badges of slavery as a suit of livery. Let us hope that another generation will Farm-Servants’ Cottages. 261 effectually simplify and improve the former, and entirely abolish the latter. We are aware that there is a great prejudice in favour of Gothic buildings of every description, from the cottage to the palace ; arising from the associations of reverence, antiquity, and chivalry, which are connected with them. Maturely considered, however, we cannot help sometimes doubting whether the existing prejudice in favour of Gothic architec- ture does not reflect more discredit than honour on human nature; at all events, it is a prejudice unworthy of an age of rapid improvement like the present. We freely acknowledge that we do not expect many converts to our views in this respect; because simplicity is one of the last refinements, not only in the progress of the arts, but in the progress of opinion. Believing, as we do, that this principle is undeniable, we have little doubt but that much of what is now considered beauty, both in art and in literature, will by the next generation be neglected, and, as the French characteristically express it, ** réduit au mérite historique.” However, as a superabundance of wealth must find means of displaying itself, let there be Gothic or other fanciful cot- tages and lodges; but let not fancy be exercised on them at the expense of the health and comfort of the inhabitants. Let architects and their employers begin by such dimensions and arrangements as will insure commodiousness, and every requisite convenience; let there be lofty ceilings for a large volume of air; large windows for abundance of light, and for ample ventilation; a raised floor, and thick walis, to insure dryness and warmth ; and fireplaces, flues and chimneys al- ways placed in the interior walls, and never in the outside ones.* Having fixed these points, superadding sound found- ations, materials, and workmanship, there can be no objection to the exercise of such taste, or no taste, as the parties may possess. A little of the absurd, indeed, sometimes does more for general improvement than the good, because it calls forth criticism. 3. Farm-Servants’ Cottages. — The cottages erected by farm- ers for their yearly servants cannot be expected to be either commodious or substantial; because in Scotland they are built with a view to the duration of a nineteen or twenty-one years’ lease, by a party who never can have much capital to spare for such a purpose. It is true, the landlord generally makes a certain allowance for the erection of such cottages ; but, not- * Further remarks on this subject will be found in our Encyclopedia of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Architecture, Part I, p. 8. 5s 3 262 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — withstanding this, we believe they will invariably be found the worst description of dwellings in Scotland. Perhaps it will hardly be credited in a future age, that while Scotch farmers, confessedly the most enlightened agriculturists in the world, are not intrusted with the erection of stables and buildings for lodging cattle, and for the other purposes of the farm-yard, they are yet permitted to erect dwellings for human beings. ‘The farm-yard is usually built from the plan, and at the expense, of the landlord, under the superintendence of his architect and factor; but a sum is generally allowed to the farmer, for the erection of such cottages as he may require for the lodging of his yearly servants ; and these cottages he plans and executes, uncontrolled by any other powers or prin- ciples than those suggested by his own feelings of propriety and justice. That these are often low in the moral scale, there are but too many examples to prove. It is a well known fact, that no Scotch manufacturer ever ventures to erect such cottages for his workmen as a farmer does for his labourers. If he did, he would only have the very lowest description of Irish to live in them, as is the case with certain cottages along the west coast; for example, at Stanraer and Girvan. With the progress of things, we have no doubt that this practice will be done away with; and that the farmer’s yearly servants will, at least, be placed on the same footing as his horses and cattle. It is now the interest of the farmer to lodge his servants as cheaply as possible; and the interest of the landlord to get as high a rent for his land as he can, with the least outlay of capital for repairs and new erections: but men’s views of interest change ; and, with a superior de- gree of human cultivation among all classes, a more refined description of self-interest will require to be gratified. ‘To some landlords, to see and to know that all who live on their estates, and especially the poorest class, who, isolated and ignorant as they now are, cannot help themselves, are com- fortable, and possessed of the means of happiness, is a neces- sary of life. As society advances, this class of landlords will become more numerous, and this is one source from which we look for the amelioration of the lowest description of human habitations in Scotland. Another source, however, and the one on which we chiefly depend, is the growing intelligence and taste of the cottagers themselves. ‘The agricultural population of no part of Britain is yet sufficiently enlightened to act by cooperation; but, with a proper system of national education, and the free cir- culation of political and moral knowledge, both of which we hope soon to see established, the operative agriculturists, Farm-Servanis Cottages. 2638 like the operative manufacturers, will be enabled to command such dwellings, and other means of subsistence, as their supe- rior condition will require. At present, what are called the lowest class in Scotland, and especially the agricultural la- bourers, consider themselves as living by the sufferance of those who are above them; and nothing but knowledge can eradicate this degrading idea, and relieve them from the numerous privations which they undergo in consequence. We are persuaded that many absentee landlords are igno- rant of the sort of cottages which already exist, and still con- tinue to be erected, on their estates. It is difficult for us to persuade ourselves that the wives, who are perhaps mothers, of these men of wealth, are aware of the large families that are born and live together in one square room, open to the roof, with no division but that formed by wooden bedsteads, and with no floor but the earth. We cannot believe, for ex- ample, that the Duchess of Buccleugh, whom we know to be highly cultivated, and who has the reputation of being kind- hearted and charitable, ever entered any one of the fourteen cottages lately erected on one of her husband’s estates, not far from his magnificent palace of Drumlanrig, in Dumfries- shire. On crossing the country from Jardine Hall to Close- burn, Aug. 9. 1831, we passed the farm of Cumroo. The farm-house and farmery are ample and most substantial-look- ing buildings. ‘The dwelling-house is more than usually large, with two rooms in its width; a part of its exterior wall is covered with large well-trained fruit trees; and there is an excellent kitchen-garden, well stocked, and apparently in good order, in which a professed gardener (judging from his blue apron) was at work; so that the whole, had it not been for the farm-yard behind, might very easily have been taken for a mansion residence. Passing this house, and advancing about a furlong, we came to a row of fourteen cottages occu- pied by yearly servants of the farmer and occupant of the large house, who, we wefe told, came from the best cultivated district in Scotland, East Lothian. Observing that to every door in the row of cottages there was but one window, we entered one of them, and found a woman sitting at a table, writing a letter (which seemed in a very good hand for a person in her rank of life), while she rocked the cradle with her foot. The room, which comprised the whole cottage, was about 14 ft. square, without a ceiling, and open to the roof; the floor was of earth, and the walls were left rough, just as the stones were put together in building, but whitewashed: there was a fireplace, but only one fixed window of four small panes. In this room there were two box beds, placed end to s 4 264 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — end, and behind them a space of about 2 ft. in width for fuel and lumber. The furniture and utensils, though scanty, were clean and neat; more especially when contrasted with the floor, which, underneath the beds, was of earth, quite loose; though, near the fire, were laid some flat stones, which the woman said her husband had picked up and put down him- self. The cottage window, as already observed, was fixed, and incapable of opening to give air. There was no back door, and no opening either in the roof or walls for ventila- tion, except the entrance door and the chimney. ‘There was no appendage, or garden ground of any sort, behind these cottages; but, across the road, in front of them was a narrow strip of ground, divided so as to allow one fall (36 yds. square) to each cottage. In these gardens there was no structure of any kind. We repeat, that we cannot believe that the Duchess of Buccleugh is aware that there are such cottages on her hus- band’s Scotch estates: probably even the duke may be equally ignorant; and, in that case, the blame must be con- sidered as attaching to his managers; and these, again, may very probably excuse themselves (for there are always plenty of excuses for every thing), on the ground of not feeling jus- tified in departing from what is deemed customary in like cases. This confirms what we have always stated; viz., that the reform and amelioration of any class of society, to be ef- fectual and permanent, must proceed from that class itself. When the labouring classes haye a decided taste for an im- proved description of cottages, and for larger gardens, they will, as we have said before, never rest satisfied till they have procured them. But, though we maintain this doctrine, we hold also that something is to be expected, in favour of the poor and ignorant, from the generous feelings of the enlightened and wealthy ; and therefore we consider it to be the duty, as we are certain it would contribute to the happiness, ofgall proprietors who can afford it, to endeavour to raise the character of the human beings on their estates, by improving their dwellings. No man can compel tie Duke of Buccleugh to issue an order that no cottages shall be built on his estates with less than three rooms, and other conveniences, and a garden of at least the fourth part of an acre unalienably attached; but all who are aware of the immense extent of the duke’s posses- sions expect more from him than they do from less. wealthy proprietors. Having described the sort of cottages erected for farm- labourers in Dumfriesshire, we shall now notice those erected Cottages. 965 for the same class in the Rhinns of Galloway, on the estate of Mr. Macdouall of Logan. These erections, for which the name of hut or hovel would be more appropriate than that of cottage, are built of turf, or mud, or stones, or of a mixture of all these. They are commonly covered with straw, though sometimes with slates. ‘The interior of each contains but one apartment, open to the rafters (which, as may be expected, are blackened by smoke), and having no floor but the earth. The fire is made on the ground, at one end of the room ; and, by way of chimney, a quadrilateral structure of straw rope, warped around a frame of wood, is projected from the wall over the fire, and continued upwards through the roof, ter- minating about 1 ft, above it. The windows are very small, and fixed. Mr. Macdouall receives sixpence a week for cot- tages of this kind, from labourers to whom he pays tenpence a day, the common wages of the district. A gentleman re- sident in that part of the country told us that he knew one of Mr. Macdouall’s labourers, who, in one of these cottages, and on the above wages, from which all broken time is deducted, has to support a wife and six children. Rags, filth, cutaneous eruptions, and sometimes atrophy, in the children; emaciation, debility, and premature old age, in the adults, are the inevi- table effects of this state of existence. It is but just, however, to add that Mr. Macdouall grants, by way of indulgence to his labourers, land on which they may grow their potatoes, provided they manure and clean it. Having pointed out the separate faults of these three classes of cottages, we shall] now state what appears to be their greatest defect, Amd which is common to them all. Every one who has lived any time in England is aware that the humblest cottage in that country has an appendage to it, essential not only to cleanliness, but even to decency. It is hardly credible, but it is nevertheless a fact, that these append- ages are scarcely ever to be met with throughout the west of Scotland. There are even new and substantial farm-houses, and first-rate gardeners’ and bailiffs’ houses, without them. Some gentlemen who have built themselves handsome man- sions, and erected elegant lodges at their entrance gates, have altogether neglected to add this necessary convenience to those lodges. Not far from Ayr, we found a new village, consist- ing of about a hundred houses, all feued; and we ascertained from one of the inhabitants, that there were only three of the houses to which this appendage was attached. It is not to be wondered at, therefore, that ‘the outskirts of all the vil- lages and of all the towns, and the immediate neighbourhoods of all the cottages, in the west of Scotland are most offensively 266 Horticultural Notes : — disfigured. That the general absence of the conveniences alluded to, in this district, is clearly owing to the general want of a taste for cleanliness and decency (in the particular alluded to) among the inhabitants, and not from want of means to procure them, is evident from the circumstance, that every house in the above village is the property of its occupant, who might have built upon his ground whatever he chose. It appears, also, that this want of cleanliness and decency is not inconsistent with a high degree of cultivation in other parti- culars; for, the same village being at a distance from the parish school, the inhabitants have joined together, built a school-louse, and hired a teacher, to procure for their children the benefits of education. This neglect of minor comforts, and attention to important advantages, is characteristic of our countrymen ; and is, no doubt, in some points of view, highly honourable to them; but, to place them on a par with their southern neighbours, in point of domestic comfort and refine- ment, the improvement which we hinted at is essentially necessary. Proprietors who have lived in England ought to set the example in all the cottages and farm-houses which they build on their estates ; and, when they arrange with their farmers to build dwellings for their yearly servants, it ought to be a condition that this appendage should not be wanting. Though we were aware of the state the country was in, in this respect, twenty-six years ago, we did expect to find it somewhat improved at the present day. We hardly think, however, that any improvement has taken place, and would most earnestly recommend the subject to the attention of proprietors, and to their factors, architects, gardeners and bailiffs. (To be continued.) Art. II. Horticultural Notes on a Journey from Rome to Naples, March 1—6. 1832. By Witi1aMm Spence, Esq. F.L.S. Sir, Havine employed a rainy morning or two in writing out, and occasionally expanding, a few pencil notes relating to horticulture, made during our late journey from Rome to this place, I send them for your Magazine ; in the hope that, though necessarily slight and superficial, they may interest; some of your readers who have not had themselves an oppor- tunity of passing by the same road; and who will, perhaps, excuse their assuming here and there an agricultural com- plexion. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Naples, March 10. 1832. W. SPENCE. Market-Gardens at Rome. 267 Market-Gardens. —'These are not numerous without the gate of Rome leading to Naples; indeed, by far the larger portion of the market-gardens of Rome are within the walls, which are twelve or fourteen miles in circuit, without having more than one third of the enclosed space covered with houses. On the Naples road, as within the gates, they pre- sent the same general features: industrious though not very neat cultivation, and the soil kept constantly cropped under great breadths of lettuces, endive, leeks, broccoli, superb cau- liflowers ; and especially two articles which occupy more space than all the rest, viz., gobbo and fennel. Gobbo (hunchback) is the appellation which the Italians, in their well-known love of nicknames, have given to the gibbous footstalks of the first set of leaves, just as they branch from the ground, of a variety of artichoke; which are blanched by hoeing up the earth against them, and of which a far larger quantity is consumed than of the heads of the plants. Fennel is cul- tivated to a great extent for precisely the same part of the plant, namely, the blanched footstalks (and roots) of the first set of leaves; and both it and gobbo, when stewed in the Italian method, form excellent dishes. ‘These fennel roots and footstalks are eaten also raw, as a salad, with oil and vinegar. What most distinguish Roman (and, indeed, Ita- lian) gardens from those of Northern Europe are the shed, and wheel which it covers, for drawing up water, by means of an ass or ox, from the adjoining well, for the purpose of irri- gation; and the clump of fine reeds (Artndo Donax), each 15 ft. or 20 ft. high, and 1 in. in diameter, and as strong as a bamboo of similar thickness (which they resemble), which are employed as props and trellises for vines, and for fences, garden-sticks, and various other uses. Albano. — Viewed the lake here, and that of Nemi near Gensano, which occupy the craters of two extinct volcanoes : pretty, but too exactly circular to be very picturesque; and the want of bays and indentations of margin not compensated. (at least, as far as could be judged at this season) by any striking masses of large trees; the wood which clothes the surrounding hills seeming chiefly coppice. Indeed, the ab- sence of fine full-grown trees is the great defect of landscape scenes in Italy, where you sometimes travel a hundred miles (as in Lombardy) without setting eyes on a tree that has not been pollarded or lopped; and’ though, on the hills, the chestnut is allowed to expand at will, it seldom attains there that luxuriance of growth which adorns the natives of the moister mountains of Switzerland. Great part of the apples 268 Horticultural Notes : — and other fruit consumed at Rome are brought from Albano, Velletri, &c. Pontine Marshes. —The desolate aspect attributed to these twenty-four miles of the road to Naples is one of the many exaggerations which prevail with regard to Italy. The view is bounded to the left, at a short distance, by the Apennines ; and to the right, at the distance of some miles, by a line of extensive woods; the intermediate space being partly under cultivation (but chiefly in grass), with vast herds of horses and buffaloes feeding: and though the dead-flat surface, and the occasional (but not very frequent) occurrence of portions covered with reeds, or overflowed with water, give the whole a fenny character, yet, as, happily, there are no pollard willows, and the road (a great rarity in Italy) runs the whole way between two rows of tall elm trees (now in flower, and thus taking at a distance a tinge of green, as if breaking into leaf), the general effect to the eye is not at all offensive, and far less repulsive than some parts of Holland or Lincolnshire. Terracina, —The change, on arriving here, is like enchant- ment. ‘The whole way from Rome, for upwards of forty miles, presents few Italian features, and, least of all, the Pontine Marshes ; immediately on leaving which, you burst at once on lofty rocks, close to the Mediterranean, clothed with vines and fig trees, and orange and lemon trees, superb cactuses (Opuntia vulgaris), Huphorbza dendroides in full flower, and palm trees (Phoenix dactylifera) 20 ft. to 30 ft. high; all giving quite a new and southern aspect to the scene. Struck with this sudden change, some travellers have said that here is strictly the gate of Italy, properly so called; and that what is usually understood by an Italian climate and productions must be confined to the region south of Terra- cina. This, however, is an error, originating in the want of more comprehensive observation; for every one of the pro- ductions found at Terracina, with the addition of aloes (Agave americana), of which few or none happen to grow there, may be seen as far north as Geneva and Nice; where palm trees are cultivated, to sell their leaves to the Romish churches for Palm Sunday. The fact is, that the true Italian climate is confined to a very small portion of Italy, namely, to some favoured spots on the western coast; and that along its whole extent, whenever the approximation of the Apen- nines to the sea, at once keeping off the north and east winds, and reflecting the sun’s rays, affords the temperature which the orange and lemon, &c., require. The moment you recede from the coast, especially if a very trifling elevation of ground takes place, farewell to oranges and lemons, at least in any Pontine Marshes, Terracina, Mola de Gaeta. 269 perfection. Even at Caserta, the King of Naples’s country- seat, though but fifteen miles east of Naples, and not above from 150 ft. to 200 ft. higher, the oranges, we were told, are very indifferent, and that the great canal in the garden is frozen over every winter, and the cascades converted into masses of ice; and, wherever aloes are planted at Naples in open and unsheltered situations, they are constantly cut and stunted. Mola de Gaeta. — Between Terracina and Mola, numerous carob or locust-bean trees (Ceratonia Siliqua) grow, inter- mingled with the olives; and being also evergreen, but with leaves of a lighter green somewhat resembling those of the common acacia; and the hedges being mostly composed of laurustinus, sweet bay, and myrtle; while the banks were covered with Hrica arborea, Asphédelus ramosus, E\chium italicum, ZLycdpsis [Nonea] bullata, &c. &c.; all, like the laurustinus and sweet bay, in full flower; it needed an effort of recollection to recall to mind that it was still the first week of March. The carob trees, however, though more abundant here than we had before observed them, are also cultivated as far north as Genoa; where, as here, their long, compressed, and very sweet pods are both eaten by the common people and given to horses. At Mola, our inn, which had formerly been the villa of an Italian nobleman, was delightfully situ- ated in the middle of a garden, and commanded the finest views of the Bay of Gaeta (second in beauty only to that of Naples), and included in its bounds the supposed ruins of one of Cicero’s villas (his Formianum), close to the water’s edge. These ruins were shown to us by the gardener who rented the garden in which the inn stood ; which seemed altogether about two acres in extent, and was chiefly occupied with orange and lemon trees, to the number of 700, now laden with fruit. For this garden, he told us (and the landlord confirmed his state- ment), he pays 600 scudi or crowns (about 120.) a year rent ; a sum which may give an idea of the high value of these favoured spots of land suitable to the orange and lemon. The price of the largest oranges, which are of excellent qua- lity, on the spot, to be sent to Rome, &c., is 3 paoli (15d.) a hundred ; and he pointed out one of the orange trees, of mid- dle size, which had this year borne five hundred. He gave us some sweet lemons, not differing in appearance from common lemons, except that they were extremely more rugged, but with juice of an insipid sweet taste, and without the slightest acidity.* * At Naples another curious variety of lemon is exposed in the streets for sale, having externally the exact colour and shape of an orange, except that at the stalk end is a depression, and on this a prominence, as in the lemon, but within having the pale pulp of the lemon, and sweet juice. 270 Horticultural Notes :— Capua. — Our rooms at the inn at Capua, where we slept, opened on a terraced garden, with orange trees, vines trained on arched trellises, marble fountains, &c., which, for ten shillings’ expense, might have been made very gay and attrac- tive ; but all was forlornness and disorder, the beds untrimmed, and the walks littered with dirt. ‘Two magnificent plants of Opintia vulgaris, which flanked one of the windows, the waiter said, were planted there ‘‘ per pompa” (for pomp’s sake); a motive, unfortunately, so often the leading one in Italy, with- out any regard to the humbler ones of neatness and order. On the opposite side of the street, however, we espied, on the ramparts, what is a great rarity in the small towns of Italy, a public garden; which, though disfigured by a profusion of ugly temples, grottoes, &c., was of tolerable extent, with handsome parterres of flowers, and trees of sufficient growth to give shade; the whole kept very neatly, and forming a great ornament to the town. Caserta. —'The gardens of this vast and magnificent country palace of the King of Naples are not a very favourable speci- men of the old style of gardening. There are no trees of the luxuriant growth of those which adorn the Boboli garden at Florence, or that of the Villa Borghese at Rome; and the row of evergreen oaks on each side of the great canal, being kept clipped to the height of only about 15 ft., have a very stunted and paltry look. On the whole, this is among the few old gardens which one would not regret to see converted into a yardin Anglais [English garden], as far as practicable; and, perhaps, all the old gardens would be much improved, without losing their distinctive character, by one simple alter- ation, the substitution of the pruning-kuife for the shears; and, while the vistas and alleys were preserved, permitting at least their upper branches to assume a natural mode of growth. Turf, extremely rough, as it always is on the Con- tinent, yet without bare patches; and so far proving, like the scores of plots of grass to be seen in Italy (as in front of the cathedral at Pisa, and the church of S. Giovanni in Laterano, at Rome, &c. &c.), with as short and fine a turf of white clover, &c., as most village greens in England, that the notion” of the heat being an insuperable obstacle to having fine grass in the south of Europe is erroneous; and I am persuaded that, if due attention were given to having a proper soil, suf- ficiently retentive of moisture, it would be easy to have grass plots in Italy, if treated in the same way as to rolling and mowing, very little inferior to what are seen with us. Bundles of green lupine plants pulled up by the roots, and of the roots of couch grass which we burn but which the Italians Capua, Caserta, Campagna Felice, Naples. 271 more wisely give as a saccharine and grateful food to horses, are exposed for sale in the square of the town of Caserta. Campugna Felice is the title given to the extensive level tract of land which lies between the mountains to the north- east of Caserta and Naples, and the Mediterranean ; perhaps to distinguish it from the Campagna of Rome, so much the reverse of “ felice”’ But why should the Neapolitan plain, which is a dead level, be free from fever, and the Roman Campagna, which has a much more undulated surface, and is 130 miles farther north, be the prey of malaria? This is a mystery of which no satisfactory solution has been offered ; for the supposed noxious influence of velcanic substrata exists here in as great a degree as around Rome. The whole of the Campagna Ielice is cultivated like a garden, precisely on the same general plan as the plain of Lombardy, which it resem- bles alike in fertility and insipid sameness to the traveller. Rows of lopped elms or poplars intersect the fields, at the distance of 40 or 50 ft. between each row, to which vines are trained: and the intermediate space is occupied by luxuriant wheat, in some fields of which, parties of twenty or thirty men and women were weeding; lupines, pulled green for fodder; garden beans, now mostly in flower; or ground pre- pared for ploughing by two oxen, without a driver, for Indian corn, &c. ‘This is one of the grand advantages of the climate of Italy, that, while in northern Europe vast tracts of land are devoted to the exclusive growth of barley for beer, the Italians obtain a far better beverage from the very same land that supplies their bread corn, and without materially interfering with its produce: for both the vines and the trees that support them are planted so deep as to consume only the manure, which, in any case, would be washed away; and their slight shade is rather beneficial than injurious to the crops below. Naples. — Vegetables in the markets of the same kinds as at Rome, with an equal abundance of gobbo and fennel roots, and green peas in greater plenty. Grapes, of several varie- ties, kept through the winter, not much shrivelled, and quite free from mouldiness. ‘Two or three sorts of apples, but only one of winter pears, as is the case also at Florence, Pisa, and Rome; and apparently the same variety, which is good, but hardly so superexcellent as to deserve to exclude all other kinds. Oranges, in glorious profusion (chiefly from Sorrento, fifteen miles distant), and so cheap as to allow the poorest of the poor to enjoy (what Dr. Johnson complained he had never had of peaches but once) their fill of them, and that daily. The middle-sized ones (which are the best) sell at four for a grano, which is at the rate of ten for a penny English; 272 Nursery Gardens and Horticulture andthe poor get twice as many of those beginning to decay. A brilliant:display of flowers at the flower-stalls in the Toledo, consisting “of roses, ranunculuses, anemones, carnations, stocks, hyacinths, asphodels, &c. &c. Vegetation not farther advanced than we left it at Rome. Horsechestnut trees in the botanic garden with leaves one third expanded (March 6.), and_on the same day a few buds of the common acacias in the Villa Reale unfolding. Art. III. Some Account of the Nursery Gardens and the State of Horticulture in the Neighbourhood of Philadelphia, with Remarks on the Subject of the Emigration of British Gardeners to the United States. By Mr. Witt1am Wywne, Foreman in Bar- tram’s Botanic Garden, Philadelphia. Sir, AccorDING to my promise before I left England, I proceed to give you some account of the nurseries and gardens in the neighbourhood of Philadelphia, after having seen all of them worth looking at. I'shall begin with Bartram’s Botanic Garden; the prece+ dence being due to it, both for antiquity (it having been: established 100 years), and from its containing the best col- lection of American plants in the United States. ‘There are above 2000 species (natives) contained in a space of six acres, not including the fruit nursery and vineyard, which comprise eight acres. ‘The handsomest and largest tree I have ever seen is here; it is a Cupréssus disticha Z. [Schubértza dis- ticha of Mirbel, Taxodium distichum of Richard], and is 120 ft. high: at 18 ft. from the ground it is more than 28 ft. in circumference, and it averages 28 ft.: it is 91 years old.* A Gymnocladus canadénsis, or Kentucky coffee tree, is here 80 ft. high; an Acacia Julibrissin, 35 ft.; an Andrémeda arborea, 75 ft.; an Aralia spinosa, 25 ft.; a Gordonza pubés- cens, 50 ft., this tree is now in flower; and a Diospyros virginiana is 80 ft., and has a fine crop of ripe fruit on’ it, which tastes pretty well. ‘The Americans distil an excellent brandy from this fruit. ‘There are also two trees of Magnolza acuminata 80 ft. high, and six other American magnolias, from 40 to 60 ft. in height; with species of Quércus and Pinus, &c. &c., in great variety. Indeed, the most remark- * T have seen an oak tree in Wynnstay Park, North Wales, that.had ! a thicker trunk than the deciduous cypress described above, but was much. , inferior in height and symmetry. oF an the Neighbourhood of Philadelphia. 273. able feature in this nursery, and that which renders it su- perior to most of its class, is the advantage of possessing large specimens of all the rare American trees and shrubs; which are not only highly ornamental, but likewise very valuable, from the great quantities of seed they afford for exportation to London, Paris, Petersburgh, Calcutta, and several other parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This garden is the regular resort of the learned and scientific gentlemen of Philadelphia. A committee of the Horticultural Society closes an account of this nursery as follows: —‘‘ Mr. Carr, who deserves so much credit for the classification of his nursery, is no less entitled to praise for the admirable order in which his tool- house is kept; a place that, in most gardens, instead of pos- sessing regularity, is made a mere lumber room. The best order is likewise preserved in the seed room, in putting up our native seeds. ‘That apartment, moreover, contains a library of 400 volumes, in which are all the late works on botany and horticulture.” The next nursery, in extent and variety, is kept by Messrs. Landreth. Here are a good stock of green-house plants, orange and lemon trees loaded with fruit, and a remarkably fine Champney’s rose. A good deal of the business of this nursery consists in growing vegetables for seed. ‘They keep a seed-store in the city. A Mr. Hibbert keeps a small nursery, in which he grows roses and other plants in pots, which he sells chiefly in the city market. I understand Mr. Hibbert has taken a piece of ground formerly occupied as a nursery by Mr. M‘Mahon, and has taken into partnership Mr. Buist *, a gardener in the neighbourhood. There is another class of gardens, very distinct from any I have seen before : those of plant-growers, who, to a small nur- sery, and green and hot houses, add the appendage of a tavern. The two principal ones of this description are kept by Mr. Arran and M. d’Arras: the first has a very good museum in his garden; and the latter possesses a beautiful collection of orange and lemon trees, very large, but trimmed after the French fashion. These places are the resort of many of the citizens; Philadelphia having no parks, or national gardens, for the purpose of recreation. There are many small places in the environs of the city hardly worth noticing at present. * Mr. Buist has recently visited England and Scotland, for, I think he said, the first time since he emigrated from Scotland, 14 or 15 years ago. He called at Bayswater in June, 1831, and evinced himself a man of much intelligence and professional ability. — J. D. : Vou. VIII. — No. 38. T 274 Nursery Gardens and Horticulture .. Peaches, pears, and apples, are the fruits most grown in this and. the neighbouring states. Apricots and nectarines do. not, succeed, except in very fine seasons; the fruit, being punctured by a species of Curculio, and dropping off about the time of stoning. Gooseberries do not succeed except in some few shady places; currants do very well. What surprised me most. was the short duration of the peach trees, which seldom bear longer than from three to five years: they are attacked by worms at the root, and die soon after. The best remedy found out yet, is to keep a large stock of young trees always ready to plant in the orchards, when the others: die. The inconvenience resulting from the short life of these trees is in great measure obviated by the facility with which a nursery- man can procure a young stock. ‘There is now in this nursery, above 2000 young and healthy peach trees, which will bear fruit next year: the stones were sown eighteen months ago; they were budded the following August, and are now from 6 to 10 ft. high, and are well branched and formed for standards. Before I left London, several young gardeners begged of me to let them know what encouragement there is for such persons in this country. I know there are very, erroneous opinions entertained by many regarding the subject of emigra- tion to America. Some come here (I mean gardeners) with an impression that, although they know but little, they can easily impose themselves as “finished hands” on the Ameri- cans, who have not yet reached that high pitch of refinement which the British have. Now, Sir, I dare say you are aware that the Americans are a very matter-of-fact sort of people; and what with ‘ guessing, calculating, thinking, and reckoning,” they soon find out the pretender, and despise him accordingly. It is but justice to add, that the very best gardener may find some little difficulties in his way at first, from the spirit..of rivalry which every thing British creates among the vulgar here. A great number of the American workmen’s, anec- dotes are directed against the aristocratical bearing of English- men; nothing gives greater delight to the rustics than to hear of the Honourable D. S. or Lord John P. having been the last served, or badly served, at an inn, for being surly, to the waiters, &c. &c. On the other hand, if the American workmen can drive a nail, or split a log, or row a boat, or shoot a bird with a rifle, a little more expertly than a Euro- pean, they think they are superior in every thing; but they are much mistaken. ‘They are, it is true, very active at de- sultory jobbing; but for constant and well-finished work, and gardening work too, I believe an American is as much in- erior to an Englishman, as a Choctaw Indian is to the former, in the Neighbourhood of Philadelphia. 275 Some Englishmen, who might be denominated good eardeners, are too sanguine of making a rapid fortune in America: they, of course, are disappointed. ‘There are numbers who, from an aversion to study, and from other causes, affect to despise all “book learning” (as they call it), who, by dint of plodding the same round for a number of years, manage to scrape to- gether a scanty knowledge of the routine of forcing, nailing wall trees, cropping ground, &c. &c.: to them I would ‘say, if you want employment as a gardener, you had better seek for it at home, at least not here. Peaches are as’ cheap as 25 cents [about a shilling] per bushel ; pine-apples’ froni the West Indies from 5 to 15 cents [2d. to 6d.] each, and water melons cheaper: so that you perceive a mere forcing’ gar- dener would be like a fish out of water; the climate anti- cipates him in almost all the art he knows. A man who can procure a good situation in Britain, if he is fond of his profes- sion, should not come here; except he can set up in business for himself, where he can find a ready market for any thing he can grow ; but to the young gardener, who has studied the principles of his profession, who is not afraid of: work, and. who has not sufficient interest with the principal nurserymen to procure a situation worth his acceptance at home, to him I say, this is the country in which you can have plenty of employment, at wages on which you can live well. Colonel Carr told me (with regret) that most of the Eu- ropean gardeners turned farmers soon after they came here. This speaks volumes. There are no American gardeners except amateurs. I have not seen any princely palaces, and nearly as few wretched cottages. I have, it is true, seen one of the latter ; but, being very free from prejudice, I will not, like Mr. How- den (Vol. VI. p. 657.), magnify it into thousands, neither will I insult its unfortunate inmates. By the by, I cannot help remarking that the law of primogeniture is (with all its mon- strosities) the best friend of gardening. No such law exists in this country (the laws being here [as they ought to be, and finally will be, every where] all made for the benefit of the greatest number); and I know of nothing that feels the loss of this so much as horticulture. ‘There is more than one instance, in the vicinity of Philadelphia, of fine houses and gardens going to wreck, from the individual of the family to whom they were left not being able to support the expense. You have expressed a determination, in one of your last Numbers, to visit this land of freedom and plenty : I can assure you, that your readers here are highly delighted with the hope of seeing you... .. T 2 276 Horticulture near Philadelphia. Should you deem the foregoing remarks worthy of a, place in your*much respected Magazine, you would oblige me by inserting them; and I shall from time to time furnish you with an account of the progress of gardening in this and the neighbouring states. oil I am, Sir, yours, &c. Bartram Gardens, Nov. 1831. Wittiam WYNNE. Or Bartram’s Botanic Garden on the Schuylkill, noticed in the preceding remarks, we have previously (Vol. VII. p. 665.) presented some interest- ing historical particulars. The above mention of the prodigious magnitude which the deciduous cypress attains in America, will render mteéresting some particulars to which we have access, on the characteristics of this majestic tree in its native forests; they are these: — “ The cypress (Cu- pressus disticha L., Schubértia disticha Mirbel, Taxodium distichum Richard) is an important tree. It begins to be seen on the wet lands near the mouth of the Ohio, and is, with the swamp gum, the most com- mon tree in the deep swamps from that point to the Gulf of Mexico. It is a tree of a very singular character. Under its shade arises a multitude of curiously shaped knobs, called cypress knees. These are regular cone- like protuberances, in height and cireumference-not unlike tall and taper- ing bee hives. The tree itself springs from a knob or knee of this kind, of an enlarged size, and, at the surface of the ground, of thrice the circum- ference of the proper trunk. ‘This conical foundation of the tree rises of the height of from 6 to 10 ft.; and from its apex towers the main trunk of the tree, with scarce any diminution in its circumference, for a length of 60 or 80 ft.” But we must leave Mr. Flint to pursue the account im his. own words :— _ © Very near its top, it begins to throw out multitudes of horizontal branches, which interlace with those of the adjoining trees; and, when bare of leaves, have an air of desolation and death, more easily felt than described. In the season of vegetation, the leaves are short, fine, and of a verdure so deep as almost to seem brown; giving an indescribable air-of funereal solemnity to this singular tree. A cypress forest, when viewed from the adjacent hills, with its numberless interlaced arms, covered with this dark brown foliage, has the aspect of a scaffolding of verdure in the air. It grows, too, in deep and sickly swamps, the haunts of fever, mus- quitos, moccasin snakes, alligators, and all loathsome and ferocious ani- mals, that congregate far from the abodes of man, and seem to: make eom- mon cause with nature against him. The cypress loves the deepest, most gloomy; inaccessible, and inundated swamps ; and south of 33° is generally found covered with the sable festoons of long moss, hanging, as it seems, a shroud of mourning wreaths almost to the ground. It seems to flourish best where water covers its roots for half the year. When the water rises from.8 to 10 ft. from the overflow of rivers, the apex of the tree’s buttock is just on a level with the surface of the water. It is then, in many places, that they cut it. The negroes surround the tree in periogues, and thus gét at the trunk above the huge and hard buttock, and ‘fell it with comparative ease. ‘They cut off the straight shaft, as suits their purpose, and float it toa raft, or the nearest high grounds.. Unpromising as are the places and the circumstances of its growth, no tree of the country where it is found is so extensively useful. It is free from knots, is easily wrought, and makes excellent’ planks, shingles, and timber of all sorts. It is very durable,/and incomparably-the most valuable tree in-the southern country: of this valley. It is.a, fortunate,circumstance, that it inhabits the most gloomy and inagces- Horticulture in the United Stutes. QTE sible regions, which will not come into cultivation for ages. It:will; of course, have a better chance, not to share the fate-of the most..usefu!. tim- ber on the valuable uplands. The improvident axe soon renders timber difficult to be procured, in a country in the centre of forests. All the cypress forests, however, that are easily accessible, on the Lower Mis sissippi, and its tributaries, have been stripped of their timber by the: Miss sissipp1 lumberers, who have floated to New Orleans millions of feet of this timber, from the lands of the United States, and who_ have already created a scarcity of this species on the margin of the Mississippi. There are, however, in the vast swamps of the Mississippi, Arkansas, Red River, and Florida, inexhaustible supplies of cypress still remaining.’”” ¢ Flint’s Geography and History of the. Western States, vol. i. pp. 62, 63.) Cypress trees, the roots of which present similar appearances on a less scale, may be seen in the Duke of Northumberland’s grounds at Syon, at Blenheim, and various other places in England, and in the grounds of the Petit Trianon, in the neighbourhood of Paris. — Cond. Art. IV. Notices of some of the principal Nurseries and private Gardens in the United States of America, made during a Tour through the Country, in the Summer of 1831; with some Hints on ' Emigration.- By Mr. ALEXANDER GORDON. Sir, Havine performed another trip to the United States of America, I beg leave to offer a few remarks on the state of gardening in that delightful country. During my tour in the years 1827 and 1828, it was impossible for me to visit so many of the horticultural establishments as I wished; but I have, during my last visit, extended my observations much farther: and, in the hope that they may be gratifying to the readers of this Magazine, I now avail myself of a. few leisure hours to arrange them for their perusal. Gardening, in the United States of America, can never arrive at that degree of perfection which it has done in Eng- land: the nature of the American government makes. this utterly impossible. ‘The abolition of entails, and the repeal of the law of primogeniture, naturally break down into small portions the estates of even the greatest landholders. It is no uncommon circumstance in America to find lands, formerly held by one proprietor, now divided into forty or fifty parcels, belonging to as many different persons; so that gardening, to any considerable extent, by individuals, cannot be carried on in the same manner as. if those possessions were concen- trated in the hands of one person. "The moment the proprietor dies, his land is equally divided among his children; and, by thus falling into many hands, no one has the means, if he had. the inclination, to keep a garden in, the. manner,.and to the extent, which is done by English noblemen ‘and: gen- tlemen. © Still, this may be remedied, by uniting, and forming T 3 278: Principal Nurseries and private Gardens public gardens; the only method by which gardening can arrivé at perfection in the United States. I will here add, it follows as'a natural consequence, that America is not the proper field for one of our first-rate serving gardeners; and the individual who emigrates to that country must prepare himself for a life of the most strenuous exertion, if he hopes to suc¢ceed. But, although this may retard the higher branches of gardening, God forbid I should be considered for a moment as objecting to the system! No: I have seen too many proofs of ‘its efficacy in rendering a whole people independent, comfortable, and happy. Having alluded to these drawbacks to gardening, justice compels me to state, that its progress, under such circumstances, is most astonishing, and wonderful in the extreme. The many flourishing establishments now in existence in the United States are a convincing proof, if proof were wanted, of its wonderful rise and progress. Having visited the greater part of these establishments, I shall now proceed to make a few remarks on each; only premising that I by no means mix myself up with some angry discussions among the American nurserymen, formerly inserted in your Magazine. I received a kind and generous reception from all, and can, therefore, have no reason to deviate from a true statement of facts. The following establishments are arranged in the order I visited them : — The Messrs. Thorburn, Seedsmen, in the centre of the city of New York, have much improved their establishment since my last visit, and made considerable additions to their exten- sive collection. ‘The first circumstance which attracted my attention, on entering their gate, was the wonderful luxu- riance of the georginas. ‘Those marked in our lists as grow- ing only 3 ft. and 4 ft. high, I found there 6 ft. and 7 ft., and proportionately large and fine in every respect; chrysanthe- mums equally luxuriant. ‘To the interior of Messrs. Thor- burn’s seed-store I feel myself incompetent to do justice : its ‘admirable arrangement and most extensive collection of seeds, -and its library and most numerous decorations, connected with its great extent, render it decidedly the most complete seed-store or seed-shop I have ever seen. ‘The spacious ereen-house in front of the stove was remarkably well stocked with a splendid collection of plants, which would have done our first-rate plant-growers the greatest credit. The local situ- ‘ation of this establishment, its display of a regular succession “of the choicest beauties of Flora, and the free access to it by ‘the public at ‘all hours, have, in my opinion, done wonders in accelerating the progress of gardening in the United States. It cannot be expected that the senior of this firm, when he in the United States of America. - 279 first established it [see Vol. IV. p. 275.], was a good judge of seeds; but he has, by his industry and application, arrived at a, thorough knowledge of the subject: and his exertions are wonderfully seconded and forwarded by his son, Mr. George Thorburn, whom I found every gardener and botanist. im America to speak of in the highest terms. Mr. Smith, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Kenny have seed-stores in-New York. Mr. Wilson’s I did not visit; but Iwas. in- formed that this gentleman has also an extensive nursery and garden for the growth of fruit trees and culinary vegetables, though my arrangements prevented me from visiting it: an omission which I shall rectify, this summer, on my return. The Establishment of Mr. Hogg, at Bloomingdale, had un- dergone a most material improvement since my last visit; particularly in the extensive addition made to his hot-houses and pits, and in the vast number of new, rare, and valuable exotics he has added to his admirable collection. ‘Those who were acquainted with this gentleman’s superior knowledge of plants when in this. country, may rest assured there is no falling off since he has crossed the Atlantic; and I was truly happy to find he stands high in the estimation of every gen- tleman with whom he is acquainted. Mr. Floys Nursery.— The rage for building about New York has considerably circumscribed the grounds of this establishment in the vicinity of the city; but Mr. Floy has purchased a piece of land at Haarlem, which he has con- verted into a nursery; and which, from the different soils it contains, is peculiarly adapted for the various tribes of fruit trees and plants with which his establishments are so richly stored. Mr. Floy has been very successful in originating some most splendid varieties of new camellias, of which I saw the figures; I believe the different varieties have been sent to this country, and wili therefore soon find their way into’ the English collections. | Mr. Bridgeman has a small nursery and seed-store in this Vicinity; but not having sufficiently examined it to make my- self fully acquainted with its details, 1 decline giving a partial, and probably unjust, statement of its contents. The Linnean Botanic Garden is the. property of. the Messrs. Prince, at Flushing, Long Island. - Of this establish - ment much has been said, and much bas been written. Its extent, the great variety it contains, the multiplicity of agents employed for collecting and disseminating plants for and from it, and the assertion of Mr. Prince, jun., to myself personally, «that no man in England, with the exception of yourself and Mr. Robert Thomson of the London, Horticultural Society, A ss Tt 4 280 Principal Nurseries and private Gardens were at all competent to do his establishment justice, of course makes me approach the subject with some degree of diffidence. That this establishment contains a most various and extensive collection of plants is beyond all question; but most’ certainly it does not warrant the statement (Vol. II. p. 90.] that it is more extensive than all others in America combined together. I spent several hours in going over the establishment’; and certainly candour demands “the “statement; that, taking it-as a whole, it’ is’ not’ equalled, most certainly not surpassed; by any other nursery which I visited. In particular depart- ments it is excelled by several; in others, it surpasses any 5 but I must acknowledge the green-house plants are not near so well grown as when I had the pleasure of seeing them in December, 1827. I hope Mr. Prince will view with indulg- ence this statement, because [ am conscious I am correct. I earnestly begged of Mr. Prince to visit the Eur opean nur- series ; it would dispel a delusion, under which he evidently labours, as to their extent, and the variety they contain. Hav- ing said thus much, it is but fair for me to state that I saw much, very much, to approve; and, no doubt, had my visit been Molonged: I should have seen inane more. Mr. Prince’s collection of vines is most extensive * ; and his American plants are numerous and various, including splendid specimens of magnolias and various other forest trees. ‘The Messrs. Prince are most indefatigable in their exertions to procure all foreign and native plants ; and my intercourse with different gentlemen, in various parts of the United States, afforded me ample proof of this fact. By the by, if I found a falling off in the cultivation of the green-house plants, I found an equal improvement in the arrangement of the grounds ; and I hope, when you visit America, that you will devote as much times you can spare to exploring this garden. The Establishment of “ James Bloodgood and Co.” is about a mile from Flushing, and contains a good collection of orna- “mental trees, ever ovens, flowering shrubs and plants ; with “decidedly the best-or own fruit trees I saw in America. » This “remark -I- made ny many of the nurserymen when there; “and as I’never before, nor since, have had any. communica- ‘tion with’ these gentlemen, my observation cannot be guided by ‘any partiality. The extent of their nursery is, L think, about 12 or 15 acres, closely cropped with fruit trees, &c. ; ‘and, it being an-oblong rectangle, ‘the trees are so arranged that they’ plough between the rows, from side to side, directly throu oh the different quarters, several times duri ing the summer; thus saving ‘a great deal of manual labour. One po elie * He has published a work on the vine: » an.the United States of America. 281. Messrs. Bloodgood and Co. practise, I think, deserves. general imitation in America; viz. I saw a cellar, in which, were a_great number.of' fruit, trees that had been recently taken from the ground, and closely planted in sand (laid in, by. the heels, as it is called in the London nurseries), which enables. the. pro- prietors of the nursery, during the severest , frost, to execute foreign orders, and orders for the Southern States. ' The original Tree of the Newtown Pippin. —,On, leaving Flushing, I called at the residence of Mrs..Col,, More, 3 miles nearer New York, to see the original tree of the celebrated apple called the Newtown pippin. I found it growing in the centre of an old orchard. The tree divides itself about 24 or 3 ft, from the ground; but, although the estate has been in the possession of Col. More’s family for two centuries, they were unable to give me any account of its origin ; consequently the tree must be of very old standing. at These are the principal nurseries about New York, with the exception of Mrs. Parmentier’s, at Brooklyn, also on, Long Island, of which you have recently [p. 70-72. of the present Volume] published a particular account: a repetition by me would therefore be useless; so I proceed to Albany. A son of Mr, Thorburn’s of New York has recently opened an esta- blishment here in the seed line ; but, being only in its infancy, it would be premature to form an opinion of it. The Albany Nursery. — About 3 or 4 miles from Albany, your most enlightened and scientific correspondent, Judge Buel, some years ago commenced the nursery business, in com- pany with a gentleman of the name of Wilson, who is a very superior practical gardener; and, for the short period which -has:elapsed since their commencement, they have. done won- ders. There is a great diversity of soils in this nursery, which the proprietors are turning to good account;. by plant- ing the different species of trees to be propagated, in the soils -most suitable to their respective habits. No expense is spared in procuring every desirable novelty from Europe; and, when ewe take into consideration the seientific knowledge of, Judge : Buel, and the practical experience of Mr. Wilson, with the -local advantages they possess, and their spirited exertions, we “may presume the Albany Nursery will at.no distant day, be among the very first establishments of the kind in the States. From New York to Albany, I found.on the banks of the beautiful -river-- Hudson (a. noble .stream, accompanied, by yscenery. of the most: sublime, picturesque, and, romantic cha- ‘racter, not surpassed: for variety and, grandeur by any in, the world) the remains) of some ancient .manor, houses. formerly possessed by great proprietors, chiefly by the Livingston family, 282 Principal Nurseries and private Gardens which mame still predominates in that quarter. The mansion of John Swift Livingston, Esq., is situated in one of the most beautiful locations on the Hudson. Attached to the splendid brick mansion, of R. L. Livingston, Esq., is a large hot-house, well stocked with choice plants. Captain Brown, of the United States’, army, has also a neat delightful residence in this,.vicinity;: there is a small grove in front, which is deco- rated with a beautiful arbour; and a number. of rustic) seats are placed around the trees in the ground. ; There is.an immense number of gentlemen’s seats situated on the banks of this beautiful river; but, as it respects gar- dening, every thing about them is on a confined scale, for the reasons stated at the beginning of this article; and, although the remains of the possessions of the old aristocracy were wisible, yet the ancient manor houses were falling to decay; the trees of the parks and pleasure grounds were all neglected ; and. rank grass and weeds covered the walks, &c. _fyde Park, on the Hudson. — As an exception to this forlorn state of former greatness, or rather former extent, I can, with the greatest propriety, mention the splendid mansion and seat of Dr. David Hosack, a gentleman well known in the literary and_ scientific world [the Sir Joseph Banks of America]. ‘The doctor has lately retired from business and the city, to this delightful spot, Hyde Park... Our Hyde Park, on this side the water, can bear ne comparison with its namesake on the other side of the Atlantic; its natural capacity for im- provement has been taken advantage of in a very judicious manner ; every circumstance has been laid hold of, and acted upon, which could tend to beautify or adorn it. The park is extensive$ the rides numerous; and the variety of delightful distant views, embracing every kind of scenery, surpasses any thing I have ever seen in that or in any other country... had the pleasure of riding round the whole with. its most amiable owner, than whom a more condescending and affable gentleman is not in existence. The pleasure grounds are laid out. on just-principles, and in a most judicious manner; there is. an,excellent range of hot-houses, with a collection of rare plants; remarkable for their variety, their cleanliness, and their handsome growth. The whole of this department is under the care of Mr. Hobbs, an English gardener, who well understands his business; and it was most gratifying to me to find Dr. Hosack so justly appreciating his merits... ‘The farm buildings have been recently erected; and their,con- struction and arrangement deserve the strongest praise; but in fact, every thing connected with Hyde Park is performed ina manner, unparalleled in America; at least, as far as, my observations extended. in the United States of America. — 285 I might enumerate a great many more places here; but, as I found’ nothing particularly remarkable, I proceed at once to Philadelphia, making only an exception of the seat of the Count de Survilliers, elder brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, and formerly King of Spain. His seat is near Bordentown, in the state of New Jersey, where he has effected great im- provements, and is now actively employed in others; conse quently, the place is in an unfinished state at present. It is most gratifying to see this amiable nobleman withdrawing himself from the busy scene of politics into’ retirement, and expending his princely fortune in rural improvements. When at Philadelphia, I had an opportunity of attending the meeting of their horticultural society. A regular routing of business was gone through, and several things exhibited ; various foreign communications were read, one of which, from the Kast Indies, was soliciting, in the strongest terms, a re- ciprocal exchange of plants, &c. The whole of the proceed- ings were conducted in a manner which, if persevered in, must be highly conducive to the furtherance of gardening and botany. ‘The secretary, Dr. Pickering, to whom I was in- troduced, is, I understand, a most ecienORC and enthusiastic botanist, ind uses the most strenuous exertions for the advance- ment of that science. I first called at the nursery of Hibbert and Buist. ‘The latter-named partner had visited England and Scotland during the summer of 1831 [see p. 273. note}, and had taken back an extensive collection’ of plants from both countries; which, in part, went tolerably | well, though a great many died during the voyage. He and niyself sailed from London on the same day, but in different ‘vessels. I allude to this, with the intention of directing the attention of those who are in the habit of sending plants abroad. We both had large collections of Chinese, ‘Cape, and Botany Bay plants, principally packed in matted baskets; and the voyage being long (seven weeks), they suffered severely, notwithstand- ing our most assiduous attention and care. I had with mea basket of choice pelargoniums, of which I expected to save very few, but I did net lose one. For the sake of experiment, IT took from a respectable London nurseryman, Mr. Dennis, King’s Road, Chelsea, a quantity of the same tribe, with the mould shaken completely from the roots, and packed them with dry Sphagnum in a fish basket, which I placed at the mizen-mast head: after we had been six weeks'at sea, I was desirous to examine the result; when'I found every one alive and healthy. In repacking them, I suppose I was not’ suf- ficiently careful; for, a week afterwards, I found them all dead: but I highly approve of the plan. A‘s it respects sending 284 Principal Nurseries and private Gardens plants generally, I consider, that, if packed in clean boxes, and in moist Sphagnum, they have decidedly the best chance of going ‘safe. I have had the most convincing proofs of the efficacy of this: plan. [See Judge Buel’s suggestions for pack- ing plants destined for America, Vol. VII. p. 441—443.] The Nursery of Hibbert and Buist is in the city of Phil- adelphia,; and is principally dedicated to the cultivation of exotics and free-flowering shrubs and plants in pots; but they have recently purchased the grounds formerly occupied by .M‘Mahon (I believe the first American writer on gardening) ; ‘and I have no doubt, with their practical knowledge, and strict attention to business, they will meet with ample en~ couragement from the spirited inhabitants of Philadelphia. The plants looked remarkably well, with the exception of those which Mr. Buist had, only a few weeks previous, brought over. The Nursery of Messrs. Landreth & Co.—The grounds are well ~ stocked witha most excellent collection of fruit and forest trees, ail grown in the greatest perfection. ‘There are some very fine trees, Magnolza macrophylla, and other choice American forest trees, with a good range of glass houses, containing some very rareexotics, and all grown in the greatest perfection. ‘These gen- tlemen have an extensive seed-store in the city of Philadelphia, from which they send a great many seeds into the northern as well as into the southern states. It is very common, throughout the Union, to see on signs, and at the heads of advertisements, “ Philadelphia and English Seeds.” The grounds of Colonel Carr, called Bartram’s Botanic Garden, have been described in a recent Number of this Ma- gazine [Vol. VII. p. 665.], by your talented correspondent, J. M.; but I think he has not dwelt sufficiently on the most superb specimens of the various American trees to be found in this garden. [See p. 272. of the present Number.] I declare I should consider a journey of 500 miles well spent, solely to see them, and I sincerely regret having mislaid my memo- randa made of their names and sizes: but, if I live, six months shall not expire before I have furnished you with all particu- lars respecting them. They deserve to be recorded as an eternal memento of the spirited exertions of the elder Mr. Bartram, they being the fruits of his researches and exertions. The collection of American plants will equal any in the States. There is a most excellent collection of tle genus Cactus in this nursery, among which are many new species recently imported from South America, and not yet described. The house ‘plants were well grown; there were some very fine fruit: trees ; and'the whole concern seems to be carried on in a spirited manner by the present proprietor, who, I understood in the United States of America. - 285 from many gentlemen during this and my former.tour, is. a most honourable-dealing man. He showed every attention to me during my stay at his nursery, which I regret. was, so limited, as I am conscious many rich gems must have, escaped my observation. 6 af The gardens round Philadelphia are apparently neatly kept. I saw some which were laid out with great. taste, and well stocked with choice plants. That. of Mr. Pratt, about four miles from Philadelphia, has long been. noted. for. its choice collection of plants. It was there Pursh made his first attempt at collecting the American flora ; and his exer- tions were amply rewarded. I trust it will not be deemed presumption in me to state, that, although I consider his work of the greatest utility, as it respects American botany, still it abounds with errors, particularly with regard to the plants of - the southern states, part of which Pursh never visited ; Georgia (although so rich in plants), for instance. . I will not say more upon the subject; but at some future day, when I have reaped more experience, I may send you some corrections. I returned from Philadelphia to New York, and thence again to Albany; but, on the Ist of December, hoary winter appear- ing in his rigorous hue, I bent my way to the south, and landed in Charleston, South Carolina, on the 7th. The last few years have wonderfully changed the features of gardening in Charleston; and the number of botanists to whom I was in- troduced was a convincing proof that this delightful. science is duly appreciated in that beautiful city, while the surround- ing’ country furnishes them with ample resources for. their exertions. ‘There are two seedsmen in Charleston, Mr. James Wilson, and a relation of the Messrs. Landreth of Philadel-. phia.. ‘The only nurseryman is M. Noisette, brother to the celebrated nurseryman of that name at Paris. But for me to describe the beautiful specimens his ground contains) would occupy, a whole magazine. Camellias 16 and 20 ft. high,-and 20 ft,,in circumference; a most splendid Cycas revoldta,. at least 20 ft. in circumference, in the open ground, with all our plants of the same nature and habits in equal proportion... I cannot. pass. over some beautiful specimens of the-Noisette rose..,.I venture to assert that few, if any, ever, saw such beautiful specimens of that excellent variety of that delightful genus as are in this garden: but I must drop, the subject; I am not competent.to do it justice.. This garden must be seen tobe duly appreciated.. M. Noisette has,a most thorough, knowledge of the plants in the southern states ; and there are many varieties, strangers to our gardens, which it would, be highly gratifying to possess, and which. few but himself can furnish. is indolence in this respect is most unpardonable. 286 Principal Nurseries and private Gardens Were not M. Noisette my warmest friend, I would not be so severe; but I am confident he will attribute my severity to the real cause. - Mr. Legaré, the editor of the Southern Agriculturist, is most indefatigable in his exertions, and has done much by ex- ample, and by his most useful publications, in forwarding the science of horticulture in the southern states. His corre- spondence with Mr. Charlwood of London will, I am con- fident, be the means of introducing many new vegetables to that part of America, where they are much wanted; for I have met with gentlemen in the south who zever saw a cau- liflower. 1 was most happy to find the gardens around Charles- ton in a very flourishing state: many new vegetables have been introduced since my last visit; and, considering the short period which has elapsed, the progress made is wonderful. At Savannah, State of Georgia, as before, I found the gar- den of Thomas Young, Esq., to surpass all others in ‘the south. It is rich in the most choice and most expensive plants that can be obtained. This most worthy gentleman spares no expense in obtaining every plant which will succeed in that climate ; and, in a few years, his garden will surpass even his own most sanguine expectations. The genera Amaryllis, Pancratium, and Crinum succeed admirably in the open air here; and Mr. Young has commissioned me to bring him from England as many of those delightful plants as I think proper. Mr. Young’s garden is as numerously frequented as that of our great national Horticultural Society at Chiswick. As it respects gardening, he is a host within himself; his ex- ample is doing wonders; he is a purchaser of all your works, and wishes anxiously to see the author. Mr. Oemler of Savannah is a great amateur in gardening, and a most excellent botanist ; the late Mr. Elliot of Charles- ton, the editor of the Botany of South Carolina and Georgia, frequently mentions the kind assistance of this gentleman ; and also of two other gentlemen, Lewis le Conte, Esq., and his brother, Major le Conte, of the United States’ army: than whom there are not two more scientific gentlemen in the United States of America. The assistance I received from these gentlemen, in making my collection of plants, TP cannot’ give you the most distant idea of. They are most excellent botanists, and naturalists in every branch of science; and I hope to prevail on Major le Conte to become a contributor to your Magazine of Natural History. We is now publish- ing a work in: Paris on the lepidopterous insects of North America, which I hope you have seen. The Garden of Lewis le Conte, Esq., near Riceborough, in in. the United States of America... 287 Liberty County, Georgia, forty miles south of Savannah, is decidedly the richest in bulbs I have ever seen; and. their luxuriance would astonish those who have only seen them in the confined state in which we are obliged,to grow. them in this country. M. le Conte has discovered many, new plants; and through his kindness I have been enabled to enrich eur collections with some splendid treasures. ‘This gentleman has, for above thirty years, given his attention to the successions of the different species of timber, as alluded to by your ex- cellent correspondent, J. M. of Philadelphia [Vol.V. p.421.]. As I consider M. le Conte’s ideas on the subject highly de- serving of attention, I insert them verbatim, as I noted them down when on a visit to him in January last : — ine ‘The pine lands in the southern states have generally old oak grubs, which, by reason of the periodical fires, are pre- vented, from becoming trees; notwithstanding, they still con- tinue alive :. and when land is turned out (that is, when the cultivation of land is relinquished), pines, being by nature unproductive of suckers, are consequently killed 27 toto ; while the oak, now sole possessor of the soil, starts up, and grows vigorously. On the other hand, land which had been solely occupied by oaks previously to its cultivation, is invariably of a superior quality to what is termed pine lands, and naturally is a longer period under cultivation before it is turned out; by which means the roots of the oaks are completely eradi- cated while it is in a state of cultivation. ‘The pine seeds being winged, and thereby easily carried by the wind to a considerable distance, if the ground is free from the roots of other trees, are the first to establish themselves; and, being of a free and rapid growth, they take the lead of all other species of timber, and become the principal occupiers of the land: but when the roots of the oaks are not destroyed, they will take the lead, and resist the pine and other trees, All pine lands which originally had no oaks will invariably pro- duce pines again, whether they have been under cultivation for,a long or a short period.” , 1 These remarks are the result of thirty years’ close observ- ation, and, consequently, are correct ; but I find, on referring - to my notes, that M. le Conte adds, as a hypothesis respect- ing the succession of wild cherries to beech, &c., “that. birds, being naturally fond of the cherry, eat them with avidity, and swallow the stones of the fruit, which do not suffer, in their germinating qualities, while in the bowels of the. bird ; and as these frequently resort to beech woods, it naturally follows that they void these cherry-stones there; which either lie dormant (as they retain their vegetating powers for a length of time), or germinate and remain in a diminutive state: but 288 Alorizculture in the United States. when the beeches are cut down, they advance rapidly, and become the principal occupants of the soil.” (Jan. 29. 1832.) I have a vast fund of information on many interesting sub- jects, obtained from M.le Conte; but must let the above suf- fice, as I find I am extending this article to a great length. I must, however, inform you that this gentleman tho- roughly convinced me of the existence of the Magndlza pyra- midata; for on Thursday, the 27th of January, we took’a journey of fifty miles, and crossed the Altamaha river, to look for a tree of that species which M. le Conte had seen there eighteen months previous. We found it; and it evidently differs from the M. auriculata, the leaves being only from 5 in. to 6 in. long, and the sinus at the base more abrupt and angular ; with the buds more elongated and more acuminate : to all appearance the leaves were glaucous underneath, though when we saw them they were withered. Elliot’s description of the tree is quite correct. Pursh’s is as follows: — . M. foliis rhomboideo-obovalibus, abrupte acutis, conco- loribus, basi subcordatis, auriculatis, lobis divaricatis, petalis lanceolatis, sensim acutis. But it ought to be, ‘ Foliis’ ob- ovatis, abrupte acutis, subtus glaucis, basi subcordatis, auri- culatis, lobis non divaricatis, petalis—of course, I did not see.* Before I conclude this sketch of the gardens of America, I must assure you that I sincerely regret I never have had the opportunity of visiting Boston in the State of Massachusetts ; where, I understand, the science is in a more forward state than in any other part of the Union. I hope scon to be able to satisfy myself, and also your readers, on this subject. ' I have, early this morning, read and re-read your article in the April Number of the Gardener’s Magazine, wherein you recommend gardeners, in the strongest terms, to emigrate to the United States; on which subject I beg leave to advance a few observations. ROE Emigration is attended with many inconveniences, which few are competent to appreciate but those who have ‘expe- rienced the trial: leaving their native countries, their rela tives, and their former homes, to go to a foreign country, where every thing is strange, and where they have to adopt new manners. A new system is of itself a severe trial; but, Sir, I am sorry to add, too many emigrants are of a class not calculated to do well in any country; and, for them, America is the worst country in the world, as you will find no individual there, however high or exalted his station, who is not actively engaged in some pursuit.+ No man can hope to prosper who * Since writing the above, I have seen the M. pyramidata in Mr. Lee’s nursery at Hammersmith. t+ Your assertion respecting the price of living in the United States is Frauds of Correspondents. 289 does not exert himself to the utmost. Fine gentlemen hed better stay at home; but, on the other hand, any individual may do well who goes there, and who is sober, industrious, and persevering. If he purposes remaining in the States, he should by all means enrol himself a citizen as soon. as he arrives, as otherwise he can hold no landed possessions: he should on no account remain long (unless he be a mechanic) about the city where he may land. I speak from experience. : Iam, Sir, yours, &c. Leicester, May 7. 1832. ALEXANDER GorpDon. Art. V. On certain Frauds imposed by Correspondents upon the Readers of Transactions of Horticultural Societies, and of the Gardener's Magazine, &c. By An Enemy To DEcEIT. Sir, I nave been intending, for some time past, to write to you concerning a species of fraud, imposed to a considerable extent, by correspondents, upon the readers of Transactions of horti- cultural societies, and those of the Gardener's Magazine. I have deferred writing to you upon this subject, expecting that some one better qualified than myself would come forward, and bring it before the attention of you and. your readers. In this, however, I have been disappointed ; no one, so far as I know, has so much as hinted at its existence; and, from the importance of the subject, I feel myself compelled to perform a duty, which should have been, and I truly wish it had been, discharged by the correspondents themselves. As I do not approve of a caviling disposition, I would much rather join in congratulation, or remain altogether silent, than expose faults ; but there are some things about which to say nothing, amounts to nothing less than crime. There are some, and I trust many, of your correspondents who really deserve the commendation and gratitude of your readers. ‘The humble and candid, yet expressive, manner in which they have disclosed their sentiments, fully evinces these to be dictated by the best of motives, as well as to be the result of much experience and investigation: for my own part, I have been, and I hope still shall be, delighted and in- structed by their communications. But there are others, who, perfectly erroneous : no man can board and lodge there under 23 or 3 dol- lars per week. — A. G. Our statement was made on the authority of Mr. Benjamin Poor, of New York, who lately, with his family, passed some months in Europe, and several weeks in London. — Cond. Vor. VIII. — No. 38. (Bi 290 Frauds of Correspondents upon Readers of judging from their present practice, seem not to have been actuated by such laudable intentions. ‘These persons, appa- rently from an ostentatious desire of bringing themselves and their plans before the public, or from some other mean design, Mave set forward, as a great acquisition to the horticultural world, the result of some experiments intended to set aside established methods of practice; but, being unable to substan- tiate their discoveries by reason, they are often obliged to appeal- to their own success, or to what they choose to call undisputed facts. ‘The language, too, is sometimes peculiar, and savours not a little of presumption. You may observe in almost every instance, the participles “ convinced ” and ‘con- verted,”’ preceded by determinate adverbs in the Superlative depice, such as “ most fully, ” most completely,” or ‘most decidedly.” These practices, although bad enough, are, I am sorry to say, only precursors to one infinitely \ worse ; for the communications, not being fixed upon solid bases, must give way to after experience : and accordingly we often find the very projectors themselves returning to the plans their ingenious communications were intended to supersede. I know several whose present practice actually gives the lie to their self-sufficient papers. Some persons with whom I have conversed upon this subject, assert their knowledge of similar cases ; and from this I conclude that such instances are by no means uncommon. But have any of them had the honesty to publish their discontinuance of practices which they have found untenable, in order to prevent others from adopting their plans, at the risk of much trouble, expense, and disappointment? No: not a single instance has ap- peared. To speak about the impropriety of such conduct would be useless; its inconsistency and injustice must be evi- dent to every one. I do not wish you to suppose that I write in this manner without sufficient facts to prove my statements. I could give you several; but one example will suffice at this time, and I will leave the rest to some other opportunity: in the mean time hoping the authors will save me the trouble, by confess- ing it themselves where their plans have failed: as, if they do not, I shall take the liberty to do it for them. For the ex- ample I refer to, I must first invite you to turn to Vol. I. p. 70., where you have abridged a paper from the London Horticultural Society's Transactions, on the growing of pines without bottom heat, communicated by Mr. Stewart, gardener . to Sir Robert Preston, Bart., Valleyfield, near Culross, Perth- shire. Mr. Stewart says he is * fully convinced of the effi- ciéncy of his method, after three years’ experience.” Hewishes, also, that his experience may in some degree tend to establish Hort. Trans. and the Gardener’s Magazine. 291 Mr. Knight’s theory. Without passing one remark upon his paper, I shall briefly state what is his present practice, leaving your readers to judge for themselves. At Valleyfield there are two fruiting pine- pits, one wr ought with leaves, with as much tan as will allow the pots to “be plunged i in it, and a fire flue; ; the other by leaves, and dung. linings. ‘The succession pit is wrought by leaves, dung lin- ings, and a fire flue. The remaining pits are those in ques- tion. ‘They remain still of the same construction ; but, instead of setting the plants on sand, Mr. Stewart now plunges them in 15in. of good tan, by stirring, watering, and often renew- ing which, he fails not to keep a as strong a bottom heat as the most rigid advocate for bottom heat pine-growing’ could desire. These pits are chiefly used for small succession plants,. crowns, &c. I can also assert that Mr. Stewart never raised a pine worth any thing during the time he adhered to his own method; and that ne was obliged, from absolute necessity, to return to the old system. ‘T assert this upon good authority, and without any fear of contradiction. To do justice, however, to his improved mode, I must not omit to mention that it is excellent for producing, and rearing to full perfection, that friendly neighbour of tthe pine, the white scale. Mr. Stewart was, at any r rate, ‘fully convinced ” of this, before he relinquished it. Mr. Siatneh for changing his practice, cannot urge the plea of convenience, for he has plenty of coals within heli a mile, and sand in abundance within a hun- dred yards of the pine pits; whereas he has to drive his tan a distance of seven miles. Any of your readers who, from ex- perience or observation, may have discovered similar cases of discrepancy, would do well to make them known ;-as by this means only we possess the power of limiting the I and neutralising the effects, of these deceptions. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. Staffordshire, April 17, 1832. — An Enemy to Decerr. Kyow1ne the author of the above communication, and that he worked for some time in the gardens of Valleyfield, and believing him-to be candid and honest, we have inserted his “ instance.” As to the] principle on which his paper is founded, its correctness is undeniable; and we have said so in one of our earlier volumes. (Vol. IL. p. 489.) A magazine has this great advantage over collections of papers in what are called Zransactions, that it admits of controversial discussion, which the latter-do not ; and there- fore false doctrine, once admitted into such collections, stands there as true. In this respect, the Transactions of societies, in their present form, and in their present manner of publication, are behind the age. Fortunately the bulk and expense of these works prevent them from being generally read ; for, if they were, they would, in cases similar to that referred to by our correspondent, often do more harm than good. — Cond. U 2 292 Perkins’s Improvements in the Arr. VI. Plan for heating Hot-houses by the Circulation of hot Water in hermetically sealed L ubes of small Diameter. By Mr. A. M. PERKINS. Sir, _ I xe leave to submit to your judgment my plan for heat- ing hot-houses by circulating hot water in her metically sealed tubes of small diameter. In the infancy of this plan, in con- sequence of my successful application of it to the heating of the printer’s plates in the Bank of England, John Horsley Palmer, Esq., the governor, very liberally proposed to erect an apparatus in one of his hot-houses, with a view to ascer- tain its powers for heating it. I therefore put up an ap- paratus, consisting of a series of pipes, of only an inch in diameter, so connected together as to form a complete circuit round the house ; one fourth part of these pipes, in the form of a coil, was placed in the flue of a fire-brick furnace, of a peculiar construction [see figs. 44. to 46.], and the other three fourths were exposed to radiation within the house. The result was a gradual rise in the thermometer, in the house, from 45° tor 90° in four hours, without once stoking the fire from the time of lighting. The fuel was coke. This experiment effectually proved the power of my apparatus, with respect to the transmission of heat. Subsequent experiments have proved its capability of sustaining an equality of temper- ature for ten hours together, srilbron: the attendance of the stoker. Mr. Palmer has since had three ather houses heatediaa the same manner, which, he assures me, give him unqualified. satisfaction. With respect to the economy of fuel, there appears a great gain over the ordinary flues. When the fuel used by my apparatus is compared with that consumed in Mr. Palmer’s conservatory, he says, there is a saving of two thirds. : : These facts completely refute the objection raised by some persons against the use of small tubes for heating hot-houses, &c., as they incontestably prove the power possessed by my apparatus, notwithstanding the small quantity of water used, of absorbing the heat fon the furnace, in such equal abd constant quantities, as to compensate for the greater quantity of water used upon the old system of large cast-iron pipes. There is an advantage also in the small pipes employed in the hermetically sealed system, which does not belong to the larger pipes; and that is, from the furnace being ‘he magazine ef heat, and situated outside of the house, the heat can be reduced in much shorter time, by simply opening the flue- Apparatus for heating Hot-houses. 293 doors; and, on the other hand, the temperature, in the same ‘proportion, can be as quickly raised in case of sudden frost, or discovery of the neglect of the gardener. I beg to observe, that, from notes taken for a month to- gether, by Mr. Palmer himself, on a Sikes’s self-registering thermometer, there did not appear, at any one time during the night, a variation of more than 23°, and very often not one degree, although there were at times 7° of frost out of doors. ' This furnace will burn the hardest stone or Welsh coal. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. A. M. Perkins. London, 21. Great Coram Street, Brunswick Square, March 15. 1832. THE gardening world are much indebted to Mr. Palmer for his liberality and public spirit in risking the application of this new mode of heating, on an extensive scale, in his hot-houses, at Parson’s Green, near Fulham, Middlesex. We have before noticed (p. 236.) that we examined these hot-houses, talked with the gardener on the subject, and were much satisfied with the plan. Mr. Perkins has since applied his mode of heating to our small hot-house at Bayswater, and to a green-house connected with it, with the most complete success. The great advantage of the mode, as applied to hot-houses, is the economy in the first erection. Messrs. Walker, who, as we before observed, are the manufacturers of Mr. Perkins’s apparatus, state that this, in most cases, will amount to one third of the expense of heating by hot water, according to any of the common modes. With respect to the power of the one inch tubes, it has been demonstrated, by a mathematician and chemist of the very first authority, that as much will be effected by one of Mr. Perkins’s one-inch tubes, heated to 300°, as by one of the three-inch tubes, employed in any of the ordinary modes of heating by hot water, when heated to 180°. A second advantage of Mr. Perkins’s mode, for hot-houses, is the small space which the pipes occupy ; and this, for houses which have not been built expressly for being heated by hot water, is no small matter. A third advantage is, that the water may be circulated, without regard to whether the-tubes are below or above the level of the fire-place. But, however favourable this plan may be for heating hot-houses, the advantages for that class of structures are as nothing compared to those which it offers for heating dwelling-houses, and all kinds of manufactories. This will be understood at once, when it is stated, that the water may be circulated, under ordinary circumstances of attention to the fire, at from 300° to 600°; and, with extraordinary strength of pipe, and application of fuel, to a still higher degree. It is found that 400° will roast meat. The work- men in the bank-note printing-office of Messrs. Perkins and Bacon have dressed a beefsteak at the farther extremity of the pipe of hot water used for heating the steel plates ; and Mr. Perkins is constructing for himself an oven for roasting by water. It is easy to see, that, in a very short time, this will lead to extraordinary and most beneficial changes in domestic arrangements ; and that, if we could get rid of our prejudices in favour of open fires, the smoky atmospheres of our great towns would be got rid of at the same time. Water at 500°, or, at least, water at 300°, for the purposes of cookery, and for heating reserve cisterns of cold water, or masses of metal or masonry, for various domestic purposes, including 9g Us 294 Perkins’s Improvements in the warming rooms, heating baths, laundries, &c., may, at no distant time, be circulated by companies, in the same manner as gas; and, in London, instead of one fire for every room, as at present, there may be only one in a parish, or in every square of an acre-in area. For the present, however, we shall not indulge in further speculations as to the uses to which this invention may be applied, but conclude by giving a description of Mr. Per- kins’s apparatus; and this we shall do, partly by copying, in his own words, a part of his specification, as given in the Repertory for Patent Inventions for March, 1832, and by engravings made from drawings fur- nished us by himself. 5 “4 (fig. 44.) is a vertical section of the description of furnace I prefer, and B is a plan or horizontal section: in each of these figures the same letters = — sgee| ae = Ns i) IT of reference indicate similar parts, and such is the case in the other figures in the drawings. The-description of tubes which I have used, and find to answer, are what are called drawn gas tubing; and the size I most com- monly employ is about lin. outside diameter, and the diameter of the inner area is about five eighths of an inch; but I do not confine myself to the use of this size tubing. ; Apparatus for heating Hot- houses. 295 “aaa (fig: 44. A and B) is a coil of tubing, which is placed within the furnace, as shown in the drawing; 6 is a tube by which the water passes from the coil a, when in a heated state; and c is the tube by which the water is returned to the coil, after having given off the heat, to effect the object to which the apparatus is applied, whether for heating the air in buildings, evaporating fluids, or heating metal, as will be more fully described hereafter. « The furnace consists of two compartments, d and e; the compartment d is that in which the fuel is burned, and the compartment e surrounds that at d, and is a sort of hot chamber in which the coil of tubes (a) is placed, and the water therein becomes heated by the heat which is generated in the compartment d, the smoke and heated air passing from the ignited fuel at finto the compartment e, and thence into the chimney (g). “ The description of fuel which I prefer is coke or stone or other coal, as free from bituminous matter as possible, which is put into the compartment d, at the upper part at /, over which there is placed at all times a cover, to prevent any draft passing in that direction ; by which means, when the fire is lighted, and the fuel is filled up to the top of the compartment d, and the opening at / covered, the air which produces the combustion will pass up through the fire bars at 7, and the fuel on such bars will in a short time become an ignited mass: 7 is an opening or door in the front of the furnace, by which the same may be stoked, or the fire lighted. “c, D, E (fig. 45.) show the manner in which I construct the joints of the apparatus, which are shown on a larger scale, for the purpose of making them more clear. c (jig. 45.) shows ‘in section the manner of connecting 296 _ Perkins’s Improvements in the two tubes, & and 7: it will be seen that the end of the tube & is tapered off both inside and out to a sharp edge, which buts against the straight surface of the end of the tube /. On the ends of these tubes are cut screws, the one having a right-hand screw, the other a left-hand screw, and by means of the coupling piece m, which has a female screw cut right and left, the two ends of the tubes / and / are brought together, and by this means a strong water-tight joint is made; and in this manner I connect any number of tubes together, according to the purpose to which the apparatus is to be applied. “ p and E (fig. 45.) are two views of the connections of other parts of the apparatus, and also of the part of the apparatus which is intended for the expansion of the water; 7 is an upright tube, closed at the top, having a small screw hole to let out the air when the apparatus is filled with water, but which is kept perfectly closed when the air is driven out. This tube n is usually made of a larger size than those in which the circulation takes place, and in this tube there should be an area equal to the quantity of expansion which will take place in the water contained in the outer tubes ; and, as water expands to about one twentieth without being converted into steam, I leave at least double: that quantity of capacity in the tube or vessel x. oo are short tubes formed into cones at their two ends: these cones enter into holes perforated in the tube », and into the ends of the tubes p and q; the tube p being the one by which the hot water is conveyed from the coil a, after it has become heated, and the tube or pipe q is ‘the point at which the apparatus is filled with water, and by which the height of the water is regulated; and this tube q is to be placed. in such a posi- tion, that there shall be sufficient space above it, in the tube x, to allow for expansion. “ On the tubes p and q are two collars (7) formed, and by means of the two plates ss, and the screw bolts and nuts ¢¢, there will be a strong water-tight joint formed to all the parts. At the top (v) of the pipe, there is a collar (7) formed, and by the plates w, and screws and nuts «, the cone y is strongly held in the opening of the tube g, by which the same is made water-tight when the apparatus has been filled with water. To the bottom of the expansion tube n is connected the pipe 4, by coupling similar to that described in ¢ (fig. 45.). : ‘¢ Having now described the manner in which I conceive it best to con- struct the various parts of the apparatus, I shall now proceed to describe some applications of the same. F (fig. 46.) shows a longitudinal view, and G shows a plan of an arrangement for applying my improvements to hot plates which are intended to be used by copper-plate and other printers, for the purpose of heating the plates from which impressions are to be taken. I have not thought it necessary to show the presses, or any other parts of the machinery used for printing. The plates (a a) being intended to be used in place of the charcoal fire-grates heretofore employed for heating the plates at the time the ink is rubbed in, one of these heated plates (a) is placed in the proper position at each press, if more than one is to be heated ; and it will be evident that a large number of presses may have their plates (A) heated by one set of tubes. The tube p is the one which, as above described, conveys the heated water from the furnace, and the tube c returns it back to the coil after it has given off its heat. «* The manner in which I construct the plates (4) is as follows. I make a rectangular mould to the size required, and place therein the bent part of the tube p, and then fill the mould with melted lead, or other metal, accord- ing to the degrees of heat such plates are intended to bear, by which means I produce metal surfaces, which become heated by the passage of the heated water through the tube p; and it is evident that such heated plates may be applied in a variety of ways, and for a variety of pur- Apparatus for heating Hot-houses. 297 #6 - ROU . ‘ / p poses such, for instance, as hot plates for cooking. u (fig. 46.) shows the manner of applying the apparatus to a rectangular boiler, which boiler is shown in plan, and is applicable to the boiling of syrup in the making or refining of sugar; by which it will be seen that the heated water is made to circulate through a series of tubes, and give off its heat to the fluid contained in the boiler; or these tubes may be made to pass into steam or other boilers in a similar manner, and will cause the fluid con- tained in such boilers to become heated and evaporated. ~ f “ In heating the air of rooms of buildings, the tubes p and c may be made to pass around the flooring of such room, and where a large quantity of heat is desired, it will sometimes be desirable to have more than one pipe passing to and from the coil of pipes contained in the furnace, whereby a larger quantity of heated surface will be presented, which, being heated to a high degree of temperature, will give off the same to the air contained in the room or buildings, and warm the same; and I have found that when the circulating tubes present a surface equal to three times that of the coil of tubes in the furnace, I have not been able to burst the tubes. _ “© Having now described the nature of my invention, and the manner of carrying the same into effect, I would have it understood that I lay no claim to the various parts of which such apparatus is composed ; neither do I claim the application of the circulation of hot water to the purposes above described: but what I claim as my improvements in such apparatus or method of heating the air in buildings, heating and evaporating fluids, and heating metal, consists in circulating water in tubes or pipes, which are closed in all parts, and have sufficient space allowed for the expansion of the water as above described.” We hope the time may soon arrive, when one of those working men’s colleges, which an enlightened, spirited, and most benevolent author, Junius Redivivus, has recommended in the Mechanic’s Magazine, will be erected and peopled, and be supplied with heat, for all the purposes of domestic economy, comfort, and enjoyment, by Mr. Perkins’s apparatus. Notwithstanding what has been said against the college of Junius Redi- vivus, and also against our own college (Mech. Mag , vol. xvi. p. 332.), we are convinced that such arrangements, in the present state of society, would contribute uncommonly to the comfort of the working classes in London. — Cond. 298 New Trap for catching Moles. Art. VII. A new Trap for catching Moles, with some Remarks illustrative of its Superiority over the Traps now generally in Use. By A. F. Sir, Axovur two years ago, I had the management of a small garden in Aberdeenshire ; and, being very much annoyed with moles, I had recourse to different schemes in order to destroy them, always trying to find out some sort of trap that would require less time and trouble in setting than the com- ~ mon wooden ones: for, as is too often the case with gentle- men’s gardeners in that part of the country, I had enough in the keeping and care of the garden and its produce to occupy all my time and attention, without mole-catching. It gene- rally took me an hour every day, for several weeks, in the spring and autumn, to keep about a dozen traps at work ; for the wooden springs soon take a set, and lose their power, when they are not attended to and tightened. I tried cast- iron traps, made in the form of forceps, and found that they answered very well when the tracks were through any sort of firm mould: but, when the tracks were through loose mould, the iron traps were every bit as troublesome as the wooden ones; for then they required to have a piece of stone or slate along each side, to prevent the mole from getting through without displacing the trigger ; and they required also to be particularly covered, so as to be close enough to exclude the light, and prevent the free action of the air, yet so open as to allow the handles of the trap to extend freely as soon as the trigger should be displaced. All these inconveniences, how- ever, I got rid of by using this very simple kind of trap, which I invented ; and which possesses one particular advan- tage over any other kind that I have tried or seen, and that is, that it will catch two moles at one set. It consists of a block of wood (fig. 47. a, upper view, with one end set; and fg. 48., under view) 10 in. long, 3 in. broad, and 33 in. deep ; witha hole (4), 23 in. diameter, bored length- wise through both ends. In the inside, half an inch from the extremity at each end, a groove is cut for a wire loop to fit into, as in the common wooden mole-trap; only that the grooves on the upper side of this one are cut quite through, having a small nail or pin of wire driven in through the middle, to keep the wires from rising above the wood. In the upper side of the hole, close by the grooves, three blunt-pointed pikes of wire (c) are fixed, so as to stand a quarter of an inch out of the wood. ‘The holes for the triggers are bored in the centre of the upper side, 3in. from each end; and in the New Trap for catching Moles. 299 Yp . lower side, opposite each trigger-hole, is a small piece cut out, as in the common trap. ‘The springs are made of iron Ae, 48 WH —— ip wire, of about one eighth of an inch in diameter (d and e); ' - and are exactly of the same form as those of the. common mouse-trap, having. a cross wire fixed 14 im. fromthe top of each spring ( f and g); from which the catches, which are likewise made of wire (i), aresuspended. -These catches are retained by the ‘plug or trigger (2) till it is displaced by the mole. ig. 49. is the trigger, ft of the full size. » I saw, in your Magazine (p. 36.), the description of a new 300 On planting and laying out Grounds kind of mole-trap ; which, I am of opinion, would require so large an opening, to allow it a chance of catching both ways, as to occasion great inconvenience, and render it of but trifling use. My traps might be made by gardeners them- selves, in bad weather, when little else could be done. ‘The materials of each trap did not. cost above 3d. in Aberdeen- shire. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Kensington, April 24. 1832. Ack. We have had one of these very superior traps made under the direction of A. F., and we have sent it to Messrs.. Cottam and: Hallen,. Winsley Street, Oxford Street, who will supply them to the public at 1s. each. — Cond. Art. VIII. On planting and laying out Grounds. By M. HERMAN - Knoop Kuinton, Landscape-Gardener, Ghent.- (Continued from Vol. VII. p. 561.) ‘* WE must remove those ash trees,” said my employer; ‘¢ because they are out of all proportion to the oak and elm.” This, you will recollect, was the ipse dixit of my worthy patron, the burgomaster of Haarlem ; and I promised to tell you how I prevailed on him to let them remain, in spite of his notions of proportion. ‘* What you say would be very true,” said I, ‘¢ if trees were architectural columns; but, as they are only trees, we must have recourse to the landscape- painters of Italy, rather than to Vitruvius.” ‘ Why the land- scape-painters of Italy?” said the burgomaster. “ Why Vitruvius?” said I. We agreed, that if Vitruvius was entitled to be considered’ an authority in architecture, the landscape- painters of Italy were entitled to be considered as authorities __ in landscape-painting. My next step was to convince my patron, that the beauties of landscape-painting might be referred to as a test of the higher beauties of landscape-gardening. ‘This was not so easily done. “‘ What is there in the rough foregrounds, rugged trees, broken branches, and objects in a state of de- cay, in pictures, which can apply to a garden and grounds?” said my employer. This, I confess was rather a home-thrust (grand coup); but I began, as usual, by agreeing that to a certain extent he was right. “ But,” says I, “ the rough foreground, rugged trees, &c., are only inferior details, or subordinate means of the artist, for the production of certain On planting and laying out Grounds. 301. effects. Thus, the rough foreground is generally made use of to aid in producing the effect of distance in the more light and delicately painted parts of the picture. As to the rugged trees, they are not in all pictures; if you find them in almost every piece of Salvator Rosa, you will seldom or never see them in Claude or Poussin. But, even if they were to be found in the paintings of these artists, it does not follow that you are to imitate them in garden scenery. Do not forget that the beauties of landscape-painting are to be referred to as tests, and not as subjects of servile imitation. The pro- portion or connection of one part with another is to be tried by the proportions or connections which are imitated from nature by landscape-painters. In short,” continued I, “ it is principles that we are to adopt from the great. landscape- painters, and not mere forms, which have often nothing to do with gardening.” After expatiating on Girardin’s fundamental principle, of the unity of the whole, and the connection of the parts, till, I believe, my patron was bewildered, he at last asked me : whether these principles were generally acknowledged by those who had employed me in France and Germany. Now is my time for a victory, thought I; and I told him, “ Cer- tainly, in both countries, by all the men of rank and of reputation for taste.” ‘This reconciled him immediately to my dictum: and I had not only the group preserved, but. every thing else my own way. ‘The scene of my operations, however, has been since sold, and my patron laid on the shelf (mit hors de combat). abt Thus, Sir, you see that there are at least two ways in which.a professional man may carry ideas into effect: by establishing from precedent his authority as a man of taste, after which he becomes an autocrat in his profession; or by reasoning upon each particular part of his plan, and carrying conviction on each separately to his employer. The last may be fitting for a young man; but, I can assure you, it is nel- ther an easy nor an agreeable task, at least in this country, which is far behind yours in matters of taste.* I shall con- * Not so very far. We could point out places in the neighbourhood of London, displaying the same sort of crudities as those mentioned in this paper, and even greater ones. As to the absurdity of placing a statue on a square and round column, it is not greater than may be seen in one of our suburban squares, where two half columns, bought at the sale of the front of the old Opera House, support a Russian eagle. For other absurdities of a like kind, we refer our readers to the notice, in the Tour of a German Prince, of a certain Stanmore Villa, as laid out and decorated by a retired printseller, now a Middlesex magistrate. — Cond. 302 On planting and laying out Grounds. clude this letter by detailing an example, which I shall bring forward as a proof of this last assertion. There are many wealthy merchants in Amsterdam, and all of them have gardens and country houses at a short distance from the town. At the very time [in 1826] when our mutual friend Dr. 1 showed me, for the first time, your Gar- dener’s Magazine, I was called on to lay out an approach road, or rather to correct one already laid out, to a residence in a small park about ten miles from Amsterdam. The owner of this residence had some pretensions to taste, but more to” a heavy purse; and he had in his employ a German officer, who knew something of architecture, and thought that he also knew something of “gardening. To do this architect justice, however, he was obliged to conform to the will of his patron: in every thing; for Hie was too near him to command sufficient respect to be considered as an authority, and reasoning was out of the question. Unless a man of taste has to deal with reasonable people, he has no chance of becoming an autocrat at home. ° Well! I arrived, and was first shown round the grounds by my German friend. I found almost every thing wrong ; but I said little; making it my business, as I always do on like occasions, first to Hear the reasons for what is before me. - In one part of the shrubbery a square column, joined to a round one, supported a figure of Flora. “ Why not both square, or both round?” asked I. These,” returned my German friend, ‘formed part of the portico to M. van B ’s honecs which was taken down two years ago, and sold in lots.” Directly in front of the house, there was a rustic fountain on a naked piece of turf; the fountain pro- fusely covered with shells, and spouting water from a gilt dolphin. I soon recognised this as an imitation of a fountain in the park at Enghien; but in that park it is in a low shady situation, covered by trees, and moreover the dolphin is not gilt. ‘ Why no bushes or trees about this object ?” asked 7. ‘If any were placed between it and the house, ‘they would hide the dolphin from the windows,” says the architect ; ‘‘ and, if any were placed on the other side of it, they would conceal the distant scenery.” ‘* Pass on,” said I; “and let us see what comes next.”’ A short crooked walk led from the house to an orangery, which we entered; and I could not help being struck with the size and beauty of the orange trees, and other exotics: they occupied my attention so much, that I neglected the indications of my guide, who directed my eyes to a picture, painted on the wall, at the further end of the structure. It was a view of mountain scenery, rocks, and On pruning Forest Trees. 303 cottages, imitated from a diorama some time exhibited in Paris [and also in London], and it was painted by an Am- sterdam artist of merit. I was asked, whether this had not a good effect with the orange trees, and handsome Cape and Chinese plants in the foreground; for, you must know, Sir, we are very much in the habit of painting landscapes as ter- minations to walks and vistas, both in the open air and in green-houses. “ ‘The taste is vulgar,” said 1; ‘and fit only for the garden of a guinguette.” Just as these words escaped. my lips, the proprietor came up. ‘ And why may not a painted picture form a termination to a natural view, when there is nothing better?” asked he. ‘I see no reason why: it may not,” said I, ‘“‘except that I consider it in very bad taste.” ‘“ Why so?” “ Because the two objects are incon- gruous, and the first principle in any composition is unity of expression.” ‘And yet we see landscapes of this sort in Baron H——’s gardens.” ‘I cannot help that,” said I: “the force of my reason remains. Do you find them in England or France?” continued I. “ Yes, in M. Boursault’s garden.” This is true, as you probably know; for M. Bour- sault’s garden is bounded on one side by the gable ends of high houses, and he has obtained permission to paint trees on these, to render them less unsightly. I should have painted weather stains only, had I been M. Boursault; but, fortunately. for my opponent and his arguments, M. Boursault preferred trees. I thought it prudent to yield quietly, but, at the same time, without compromising my opinion; and I found I gained by this, for my patron soon after acknowledged. that he had never seen painted landscapes in any English garden but that of Vauxhall. _“ What would you recommend for a ter= mination ?” he enquired. ‘* Cover it with orange trees, trained on a trellis,” said I; “or, if you will lengthen your perspec- tive, let the end be entirely of looking glasses, formed into doors and windows.” . “‘ A capital idea!” said he; ‘¢ it shall be done; but, in the mean time, let us dine, and I will show you the remainder of my improvements afterwards.” —_ Ghent, Sept. 1831. Art. 1X. On pruning Forest Trees. (From “ Essays on Vege- table Physiology,” preparing for the Press.) By J. Mary, A.L.S. Tue pruner should be a good vegetable physiologist ; for unless he has an intimate knowledge of the components of the 304 On pruning Forest Trees. plant, and their tendencies and functions in the system, his operations will always be performed in the twilight of uncer- tainty. If we except the failure of the lowest branches of trees, there are few indications in nature showing the necessity of pruning. In natural forests, trees generally grow closely together; of course, their lower branches, being deprived of air and light, quickly perish; but when, by accident, they stand singly, the lower branches are as permanent as those of the top, nay, even more so; and, moreover, they appear to be as necessary a part of the system. When, however, trees are taken under the care of man, they are subjected to con- trol, and are trained to answer the purposes for which they are cultivated, whether that be for the timber they supply, the shelter and ornament they afford, or for the fruit or flowers which they yield. For these different objects trees undergo various manipulations of the pruner, which may be considered under different heads. Forest Tree Pruning. — Forest trees are regarded either as objects of ornament or of profit. Ornamental trees require no assistance from the pruner. ' Natural forms cannot be im- proved by art, even when directed by the most refined taste. It is only in. woodlands, raised or maintained as sources of profit, that the skill and exertions of the forest pruner are available. In such cases the special object is to obtain the greatest quantity of marketable timber. With this view the pruner endeavours to form stately, straight, and clean- grained boles, standing as closely together as is consistent with allowing every tree a sufficient share of light and air. The interdistances, and the desired form and length of bole, can only be obtained by giving attention to the trees in the early stages of their growth. ‘To have timber of the finest grain or quality, no lateral branches that grow within the convenient reach of the pruner should be allowed to arrive at any con- siderable size; such branches act as rivals of the principal stem, and, if they remain to act injuriously before they are cut off, the wound thereby made is so large, that a defect in the timber is the certain consequence. ‘The soundness of timber is not deteriorated by pruning, provided the wounds made in the execution be no greater than will be healed during the following summer. A scar made by the axe, bill, or chisel, if exposed longer than twelve months, will always remain a flaw; for, though it may be afterwards covered smoothly over by the new collapsing wood, it is impossible that any perfect union can take place between a surface of On pruning Forest Trees. 305 timber which has been exposed to the air for several months, and that which is subsequently formed over it. Forest pruning is generally performed in winter ; all wood - work (except ‘oak felling and peeling) is done in that season, chiefly because the leaves are off, and the growth has stopped. ‘It is necessary to observe, however, that pruning performed in the beginning of summer would be a better practice for the _ good of the trees. ‘The reason is, because wounds made in winter do not begin to heal till after the summer growth takes ‘place. “That prmciple of the tree which is alone capable of closing a wound is dormant in winter, and the wound made in that season is too long unprotected ; whereas, if branches vare cut off when the vital principle is every hour extending -itself, the incision is sooner closed, and, if not very large, it is ‘completely covered before the growth ceases in the autumn. It'should be a rule with the pruner never to make a wound ‘that cannot be healed in the course of six months: but he can only attend to this by a timely application of the knife or chisel... A handsaw * should never be used in pruning forest ‘trees; because, if the irregular branch be so large as to re- -quire this tool, it had better remain where it is; and because, -thoughit may injure the columnar form of the bole externally, and the regularity of the grain internally, the place where itjoins the main body will always be found sound, which it ~would not be if cut off. Very tall handsome boles may be formed’ by the assistance of long ladders, handsaws, and jack-planes ; but, though these large and carefully polished ‘scars will be in a few years covered with healthy wood and bark, the marks of the tools will always remain a defect in ‘the timber when it comes to the saw-pit. “hese circumstances show decidedly the necessity of early pruning, as well to secure quality, as desirable forms of tim- ‘ber ;° for though all trees have a specific character of growth, with a more or less branched head, which they naturally assume when at liberty so to do, yet they submit to the hand of: skill; and many trees of bush-headed character may be trained into a light aspiring shape, and well proportioned length of bole. To take care that every tree has a principal leader is a material object of early culture, and to maintain its superiority in after growth, a chief point to be attended to. All laterals that show a rivalry, so as to divide or deform the axis, should be’ sollte. Very small branches, or spray, need not be die at GI LE *‘A) stout turning or keyhole saw may be used for small branches, as being more convenient than either knife or chisel. Vou. VIII. — No. 38. x 306 On pruning Forest Trees. taken from the stem: whether they live or die, they cannot deteriorate the timber. Forest tree pruning should be done gradually, and conti- nued till the business becomes inconvenient, or too expensive ; and, if judiciously done during the first ten or fifteen years, sufficiently fine forms will have been given, and proper length of bole secured. A great deal has been written relative to - the propriety of reducing the head of a tree, as a means of increasing the bulk of the trunk. The question lies in a nut- shell: the larger the head, the larger must the trunk be also. The diameter of the latter is increased by the number of branches which are, or have been, produced by the former. In proportion as the roots are increased and extended, in like proportion are the stem and head. Severe mutilation of the head paralyses the energies of the roots, and vice versd. Re- ducing the number of branches, to give magnitude to the stem, is ridiculous. Regulating the growth of the branches, by stopping or cutting out such as are over-luxuriant, gives supremacy and direction to the leader, but no addition to the stem or any other part. Every individual twig of the head is a part of the stem, and the former could not be developed without the assistance of the latter; which, while it conveys support, is itself enlarged by this very function. In fact, every member of a tree depends on, and, in its turn, lends assistance to, every other, when all are in perfect health. ‘The only exception to this is an accidental luxuriance, sometimes exhibited by a single branch, and a certain division of the root, which progress together for several years before the rest of the tree. For such irregularity, however, no good reason can be assigned. The foregoing remarks are applicable to deciduous trees only: on them if the forester bestow timely attention for a few years, by properly directing the juvenile vigour, he will seldom fail in raising valuable timber. As the different kinds of forest trees are used for various purposes, the forester endeavours to supply the various de- mand, It is wrong that any advantage derivable from wood- lands should depend on, or be left to, chance. Oak of the straightest and cleanest grain is required for planking, beams, posts, &c.; but, besides this description of oak, in the dock- yards, cross-grained buts and knee-timbers are in request, and consequently valuable. The former quality of oak, beech, and other kinds of forest timber, is obtained in the shortest time by rather close planting, early and careful pruning, and timely thinning, if necessary; the latter, by open planting, and partial pruning, i. e. not by aiming at a tall smooth bole, On pruning Forest Trees. 307 but by leaving the branches in sets of three or four (as it may happen), diverging from one place, and clearing the trunk of all intermediate branches and spray between these sets. This style of pruning, though it has perhaps been never or but rarely executed, is, nevertheless, quite practicable: it is only pruning the oak, so as to make the disposition of its branches resemble those of a fir tree, but with greater distances be- tween the tiers. But in all ordinary cases, if a sufficient length of bole be gained, the branched head may be depended on to furnish knee timbers. Pine and fir timber, for the use of builders and mast-makers, cannot be too free from knots, and it is impossible to have it so, unless planted and trained up as closely as possible. When so standing, no lower branches can live to distort the longitudinal structure of the axis. ‘The centre of such stems, when cut up for use, only shows the diminutive bases of the first laterals; but every concentric layer of wood imposed after these first branches decay is uniform in longitudinal arrangement, and is uninter- rupted by knots. A single fir tree requires a large space, and produces the worst timber; its first branches continue to enlarge and extend themselves, sweeping the ground as long as the trunk continues to rise; and though the latter arrives at a great size, its quality is of the most inferior de- scription. In fact, fine-grained deal cannot be produced, unless the trees are planted, or chance to stand, as those in Norway from which battens and ladder poles are cut for exportation, so closely together as to prevent all extension of branches. All the pine and fir tribe intended for profit should be planted to grow up, and be all cut down, together, like a crop of corn. They do not admit of being partially drawn. They may be called, on this account, social trees, thriving best in congregations ; for, so soon as the unity of the assemblage is broken, the exposed trees, losing their wonted protection, not only cease to thrive, but often die. Firs planted for ornament should stand at considerable distances, otherwise they never show the grandeur of their forms. ‘The pruner must not touch them; his interference only tends to make them the most ugly objects in the vegetable kingdom. Planted as nurses in young plantations of deciduous trees, they are easily kept within due bounds, by a very simple method of pruning, practised by Mr. Billington; viz., by pinching off, from time to time, the leading buds of the branches. ‘This induces a spray- covered rather than anaked stem, and prevents the encroach- ment of the branches on the neighbouring trees, without destroying their own character and usefulness as nurses, By the same means, fir trees may be formed into impervious x 2 308 On pruning Forest Trees. screens, or sheltering hedgelike boundaries, highly useful in many cases of rural improvement. Ash timber is produced of superior quality, by being planted and trained up in close order: its toughness, and its cleanness of grain make it a desirable material for the coach- maker. Straight smooth sticks of ash 50 ft. in length, and from 8in. to 12 in. square, are highly prized by all machine- makers. Whether for timber or underwood, this tree should always be grown in plantations by itself, not only because of its greater rapidity of growth, but because it is a most noxious tree in hedgerows, or when standing singly in cornfields or meadows. Oaks and elms are best suited for hedgerows. It is in- credible how much elm timber can be raised in hedgerow order; and as the superiors are cut down, a constant succes- sion of young stems keeps rising from the old roots. No tree bears pruning so well as the elm. So severely is this per- formed in Middlesex and elsewhere, that, in many cases, a very small branch only is left at the top every time the tree is shredded. ‘This property, of beg unhurt by wholesale pruning, is owing to the remarkable vitality of the tree, which, being in every part studded with latent buds, throws out a numerous spray over all the stem. This, though unequal to increase the diameter of the trunk as a large branched head would do in the same time, yet gives the timber a gnarled character, particularly useful for the naves and fellies of car- riage wheels, and other purposes where liability to split would be a defect. In countries where fuel is scarce or dear, hedgerow trees are pollarded, and periodically lopped for domestic purposes, and for fencing stuff. Oak, elm, and ash are chosen for this barbarous purpose. ‘The boles are preserved, as being the property of the landlord, while the loppings are considered that of the tenant. The trunks soon become hollow, and, consequently, useless as timber. Willow pollards are exten- sively planted in low meadows, for the purpose of growing poles, stakes, and headers for fencing. Willow holts, for supplying basket-makers’ rods, are generally cut every year. Under this management, it is observable that every new crop of shoots is perfected by a new growth of fibrous roots. The centre of a willow pollard and that of a stool soon de- cay; and, in the rotten mass roots from the superior buds are seen to strike and luxuriate. ‘The spectacle of a hollow wil- low tree being partly filled with roots, which from time to time had descended from the shoots of the head, gave the late Dr. Darwin, it is probable, the first idea of the wood of On pruning Forest Trees. . 309 the stem being formed by descending radicles from the buds. But this example of the willow is no corroboration of the doctor’s idea, when duly considered. The shoots of the wil- low, like those of all other trees, it is perfectly true, are pro- longed by the assistance of radicles simultaneously produced. The doctor’s idea was, that these two members are imme- diately connected, and that the latter are actually thrown out by the former, as in the case of a single eye of a grape-vine struck as a cutting. But that acute philosopher forgot that in the case of a pollard willow, or, indeed, any other tree, there exists an intermediate vital member which connects the extremities, and which is constitutionally calculated to allow intercommunication between them, without any portion of the shoot descending to the root, or any part of the latter, except fluids, ascending to the former. ‘The intermediate channel is the seat of vitality, formed of cellular matter and a vascular apparatus, which, while it conducts, is itself increased by the impulse and qualities of the rising current. An argument in support of heading down young, and judiciously pruning old, deciduous trees, may be drawn from the natural history of many sorts of willows. ‘They are not constituted to be permanent. So far from their bulk, num- ber of branches, and quantity of foliage being incentives to increased vegetative power, an exactly contrary effect is the consequence. As they increase in size, the more feeble is their growth, till at last all vitality ceases; whereas, were they repeatedly cut in, new power would be imparted, by calling forth latent principles of life, and their existence would be prolonged to an indefinite length of time. The common furze (lex europea) requires to be frequently cut, or eaten down, to keep it alive. The alder tree is comparatively short- lived; but may be reproduced successively, for ages, from the same stool. ie The preceding remarks show that it is quite practicable to obtain a fair length of sound bole, say, on an average, of 20 ft. or 25 ft., without much sacrifice of time or money, and without fear of checking the growth by pruning. All branches which appear contending with the leader, and threaten to divide or divert it from its perpendicular course, should be taken off close to the bole, and before they are more than about one inch in diameter. ‘This being attended to, no wounds will be made but what will be nearly healed over before the growth ceases in the autumn. The annexed figures represent the grain or structure of the wood, as it appears on a perpendicular section supposed to be x 3 310 On pruning Forest Trees. cut through the pith and opposite branches of a pine or fir tree, to show the effects of pruning. Fig. 50. Section of a tree of which the branches had died, or been cut off in the third year progressively. Fig. 51. Section of a stem of sixteen years’ growth, showing the remains of branches pruned in the tenth and twelfth years. 5 eel | Fig. 52. Section, showing the effects of irregular pruning at different times. f Fig. 58. Section of a stem which has never been pruned. It may be observed of pine timber in general, that it is less liable to be deteriorated by dead stumps of branches than the timber cf deciduous trees; the resinous quality of the sap prevents decay, and, being concentrated in the closer texture of the knots, renders them even harder than the other parts of the wocd. But the sap of oak, ash, elm, and most other forest trees, has no such preservative qualities; a rotten stump of a branch will often cause the destruction of the finest trunk. It may be added, in conclusion, that cutting close to the bole, provided it be done in time, is the only way to obtain clean-grained timber, as the above figures show. Stopping or cutting off the branches at some distance from On piuning Forest Trees. 311 the stem, deforms the tree; and though it may not affect the soundness of the timber, it certainly deteriorates its quality for many purposes of the builder. Chelsea, Feb. 20. Tue foregoing article we consider by far the most, valuable that has appeared in this Magazine, on the subject upon which it treats, and it may be considered as an earnest of the value of the work (great part of which we have seen in manuscript) from which it is taken. Mr. Main, as a practical man, and whether exercising his talents and taste as a landscape-gardener, or his science and skill as a forest-pruner, has the great advantage of possessing a thorough knowledge of vegetable physiology, and, at the same time, of having had very extensive practice in every department of garden- ing and rural affairs. We request those interested in the subject of his present paper, whether gardeners and foresters, or their employers, to fix firmly in their minds Mr. Main’s concluding direction, that branches should be cut off close to the bole before they are above 1 in. in diameter; and also to observe his remark, that, if this is done in spring, or just before midsummer, the wound will be entirely or nearly healed over in the same season (p. 309.). Let it also never be forgotten, that all wounds which are not healed over in the first season leave defects in the timber (p. 304.). Had forest-pruners forty years ago been aware of these facts, and acted on them, the trees pruned about that time, and now felling, would have sold at a very different price from what they are now selling for. Great advantages have resulted in Fifeshire, from the employment of Mr. Sang (the editor, or rather author, of the last edition of Nicol’s Planter’s Calendar, end a correct physiologist) as an inspector of plant- ations. We could wish to see our much-esteemed friend, Mr. Main, add to his profession of landscape-gardener, that of inspector of plantations in England; for certain we are, that there is no man in the kingdom better qualified for the cffice. Did we possess extensive plantations, we should send for Mr. Main (whose charge, we believe, as a landscape-gardener, is two guineas a day and expenses), and employ him for two or three days to instruct our forester in the proper methods of thinning and pruning. We would afterwards arrange with him (say for 10/., 20/., or 302. per annum, according to circumstances), to pay us a professional visit, at least, once every year in the pruning season. We know there are some foresters who would object to this sort of interference, and we know also that there are some who understand their business so well as to render it unnecessary ; but the owners of plantations may rest assured of this, that those foresters who understand their business best, will rather feel pleased than otherwise, at the idea their works being subjected to the examination of a scientific man who can duly appreciate their merits. In conclusion, we repeat what ought to be the forest-pruner’s golden rules ; — No branches to be cut off which do not interfere with the leader ; no wound, thus or otherwise made, to be larger than an inch in diameter ; and no pruning in autumn, — Cond. $12 Culture of Mushrooms Arr. X. On the Culture of Mushrooms in Melon Beds. By Mr. Joun Cover, Gardener to Edmund Woods, Esq., Shopwick, near Chichester. Sir, Havine seen, in Vol. VIL. p. 731., a letter from Brighton, signed J. S., in which allusion is made to a mushroom of un- usual size raised by me, I beg leave to state that the mush- room in question measured in circumference 3 ft. 73 in., while its weight was 2 lbs. 1 0z.; nor was this the only large mush- room on my bed, as many measured the same in circumference as the above, though none of them were of exactly the same weight. As J. S. expresses a wish to learn some particulars regarding the process pursued by me in raising this mush- room, I am induced to trouble you with the following brief account of my method : — The bed in which my large mushrooms were raised was an old melon bed, in a brick-built pit. About the middle of July, a bed of long and short stable dung (fresh from the stable), which had only gone through a slight course of fer- mentation, was made in the above pit, for the twofold purpose of raising melons and mushrooms; the bed was spawned in the usual way, but not till about a fortnight after the melons were ridged out; as, if done earlier, the bed would be too hot to receive the spawn. As soon as the bed was spawned, a quantity of stiff yellow loam, mixed with a little half-decayed leaf mould, was laid on it to the depth of 12 in., for the melons to grow in, and gently trodden down: this I have always found to be the best compost for mushrooms. ‘The melons ripened about. the end of September; and when all were gathered, which was about the end of October, the whole of the bed was cleared of the old plants, and about 3 in. of the mould removed from the surface, thus leaving mould to the depth of 9 in. for the mushrooms. ‘The bed was then well watered, and again at the latter end of November: but no more water was given all the winter, save a little which might drain from a quantity of potted geraniums, which were placed on the bed for protection during the winter months. About the middle of the ensuing February the mushrooms made their appear- ance in the part of the bed next the wall. The geraniums were immediately removed, to allow the mushrooms space to grow all over the entire bed, when several pots were found lying on their sides, being pushed aside by the mushrooms boldly protruding through the earth underneath them. Though some of the mushrooms had only just made their appearance, still many measured 9 in. in circumference. In in Melon Beds. 313 the middle of March the entire bed was completely covered, and in many parts they had thrown themselves up in large hillocks, some growing out of others. Thirty-five button mushrooms were gathered from some of these hillocks at one gathering ; the bed still continuing to bear equally well up to the month of May; and it would, I think, have borne up to June, but it was necessarily destroyed to make room for ano-: ther melon bed. By this mode of culture, the thickness of the mould, and hot atmosphere of the bed, necessary for the: growth of melons, will prevent the mushrooms from appear- ing before February. After the month of March the bed should be shaded from the mid-day sun, and plenty of air given, and water occasionally. ‘Too much care cannot be be- stowed on a mushroom bed, when first made; for if it is 2 or 3 ft. high at first (which is the height I recommend for a mushroom bed), it heats too violently, thus destroying the fungous quality of the dung. To avoid this danger, when I make a bed for mushrooms alone, whether under sheds or. glass, 1 make the bed 18 in. high at first, letting it remain so: for five or six days, and examining it every day, to see that: the heat does not exceed 100°; and when I find the heat decline, I again add 18 in. more on the bed, making, on the whole, 3 ft. high, of long and short stable dung, quite fresh, The bed should still be examined every day; and, when the heat is on the decline, spawned in the usual way. ‘The bed. must be then covered with the before-mentioned loam to the depth of 3in., and never less. ‘To insure a good crop of mushrooms, both in quality and quantity, I am quite con- vinced that itis a very bad practice to reject long litter in the formation of the bed; for this reason, beds made with horse droppings only soon decay, and consequently the spawn must perish, after producing but a middling crop of mush- rooms. Such beds as these, which are usually made only about from 9 to 12 in. high, and generally on shelves, will, I believe, never produce a plentiful crop in the winter months, unless there are fires kept to heat the atmosphere of the sheds where they are grown; but, if I am not correct in this opinion, I hope some of your able correspondents will set me right. In my beds there is a steady and a lasting heat, and they do not decay so soon by at least six weeks as those made by horse droppings only. I have each bed bearing gene- rally from ten to thirteen weeks ; and when I have taken them down, I have always found them a solid mass of spawn from top to bottom. I never cover my beds close on the mould. When made in a shed, I have the litter which I cover with supported from 314 Abridged Communication. the bed by props and boards laid across, and at the distance of about 3 in. from the surface. ‘This will prevent the woodlice from attacking them; and the mushrooms will not be drawn up weak, but will be firm and of a good flavour. In beds under glass, the glass is covered in cold weather, and not the ‘bed inside, by which means the produce will be much greater, and of better flavour. In conclusion, I beg to inform your correspondent, J. S. (Vol. VII. p. 731.), that my success in the growth of mush- rooms entirely depends on the quality and quantity of the dung used: together with the depth of loam, which should never be less than 3in. It matters not whether the beds are made under glass, or in pits without glass, provided they are covered with something to keep out the wet and frost; they will bear plenty of mushrooms either way. ‘The only motive I had for growing mushrooms under glass was that of economy, by first. having a crop of melons, and afterwards a crop of mushrooms, on ihe same bed. Should any doubts arise in the minds of any of your correspondents as to the size and weight of the above mushrooms, I can refer them to gentlemen in this neighbourhood who have seen them mea- sured and weighed, and who have also seen the bed. [See Vol. VII. p. 731. ] I am, Sir, yours, &c. JoHNn COLLIER. Shopwick, Chichester, Jan. 30, 1832. Art. XI. Abridged Communication. To avoid the Danger of rank Steam from Dung Linings injuring Plants in Frames. — Having seen, in your Magazine (p. 39. and 40.), a plan suggested by a correspondent, to prevent the rank steam of the outside dung from entering the vacuity left to admit air by night into the frames of early forced cucumbers, I beg leave to offer to your notice a very simple remedy, which I “find has the desired effect, and which may be applied to any common lights. Instead of filling the lights with glass in the usual way, I have two blank squares of wood in the top of the lights, in the centre of which is a hole cut lin. in diameter, Bal covered with a piece of tin or lead, so fastened as to turn with ease: these I open, as air may be required, either by day or night. — William Prestoe, Gardener to G. Butler, Esq. Hill Pie Drasfora, FHHants, March 29. 1832. 315 REVIEWS. Arr. I. Transactions of the Horticultural Society of London. Second Series. Vol. I. Part I. 4to. London, Hatchard. (Continued from p. 178.) 2. An Account of an economical Method of obtaining very early Crops of new Potatoes. By Thomas Andrew Knight, Esq. F.R S. &c., President. Read May 4. 1830. Turis paper, Mr. Knight believes, will be found to point out the means of obtaining new potatoes at much less expense than by any method now practised, and in a state of great perfection. Potatoes, which have been buried sufficiently deep in the soil to render them secure from injury by frost, usually vegetate very strongly in the succeeding spring; and Mr. Knight was thence led to hope, that, by planting in Septem- ber large tubers, which had ripened early in the preceding summer, and had by a period of rest become excitable, he should be able to cause roots and stems to be emitted, to some extent, in the autumn; and that these, by being well defended from frost through winter, might operate so as to afford a very early produce. ‘The experiment was not successful. The tubers vegetated almost immediately, and the stems just reached the surface of the ground, when they were destroyed by frost; and, although the ground was immediately so well covered as securely to exclude frost from it, not a single plant appeared in the following spring. Mr. Knight, therefore, concluded that the experiment had totally failed, and that the tubers planted, after once vegetating, had perished. In the following summer, Mr. Knight found that the tubers had not perished, but had formed young ones under the soil. The experiment was, therefore, repeated in the autumn of 1828, and an excellent crop of young tubers was found to be produced by them in the June following, without a single plant appearing above the soil. ‘The tubers planted were of the largest size that Mr. Knight could obtain of the ash- Jeaved kidney. Our readers will observe, that what Mr. Knight states to have taken place, is precisely similar to what happens when 316 Transactions of the London Horticultural Society. potatoes are laid between layers of earth, in boxes, and placed in any dry covered place free from frost. It is evident that, as there are no leaves formed, no new vegetable matter can be generated ; but merely the transformation of the vegetable matter in the old potato into the form of new tubers. All that is obtained is a small quantity of a delicate article, for a large quantity of a useful one. Half a dozen modes of doing this will be found given in the Encyclopedia of Gardening, 2d edit. p. 594.; and a mode practised in Scotland, very similar to that of Mr. Knight, will be found described in our present Volume, p. 56. The remaining part of Mr. Knight’s paper describes his economical method of obtaining early potatoes ; but we really cannot see in what the economy consists, or in what respect his mode of procuring potato sprouts is better than that de- scribed by our correspondents R. W. (Vol. I. p. 405.), Mr. Saul (Vol. II. p. 47.), and a Denbighshire gardener (Vol. II. p- 171.). Our opinion is, that it is nothing like so good ; but, that our readers may judge for themselves, we shall give the remainder of Mr. Knight’s paper verbatim. We are the more anxious to do this, because Mr. Knight has charged us with misrepresenting a former communication on the same subject (Vol. V. p. 718.), and even threatened us in no very measured terms (Vol. V. p. 719, 720.). It is not, however, on account of Mr. Knight’s threats (to ‘ bear us down,” &c.), that we give his communication at length; but because we really do not fully understand his paper, are most solicitous to avoid misrepresentation. “« Similar experiments were made in the last autumn; but the tempera- ture of the ground was so low, owing to the excessive coldness of the pre- ceding summer, that not a single tuber vegetated. A part were therefore taken up, and made to vegetate by artificial heat, till they had emitted stems about 3 in. long; when they were taken from the soil, and the further progress of vegetation arrested. In the middle of January, these were put into a pot with some barren sandy soil, and placed in the pine-stove, and supplied moderately with water, till the middle of March. At that period I discovered that small new potatoes had been abundantly generated, and water was not subsequently given till the middle of April; when I found the pot to contain very well grown young potatoes, which were without any other defect than that of not being, to my taste, sufficiently mature. The requisite degree of artificial heat to insure success in experiments similar to the preceding, may, of course, be obtained from a variety of dif- ferent sources, which I need not point out ; and not improbably, I think, by means of a temperate hot-bed, the surface of the mould of which might be applied to other purposes ; but I should prefer clean and barren sand for the tubers to be placed in, as those could not receive early benefit from a rich soil, and their produce might be injured in quality. “ The largest crops of early potatoes will usually be obtained from tubers which have ripened late, and somewhat imperfectly, in the preceding year ; but it is quite essential to the success of the preceding experiment, that 2 Transactions of the London Horticultural Society. 317 the tubers, which are planted in autumn, should have ripened early in the foregoing summer ; for otherwise they will not be found sufficiently excit- able in autumn. It is also necessary that they should be of large size, otherwise the young potatoes which they afford will be small; and it will be advantageous, if the tubers to be planted have been detached from their parent plants, upon their having just attained their full growth. “I believe, but I am not prepared to speak upon the evidence of experi- ment, that the best and the most economical mode of treating the old tubers, after their progress of vegetation has been arrested by cold, will be to put them into such heaps as are usually seen in the gardens of cottagers, and to cover them with mould; as a very large quantity would occupy only a small space, and their produce would there probably acquire a more early maturity, and might be collected at any time with little trouble. * A writer in Mr. Loudon’s Gardener’s Magazine [Vol. II. p. 171.] has recommended the exposure of such potatoes as are intended for planting to the sun, as soon as they acquire their fuil growth, till they attain a green colour; and I am inclined to think the process may prove in some degree advantageous, for the action of the sun and air certainly causes chemical changes to take place in their component parts; and chemical changes are the precursors and concomitants of excitability, if not the cause and source of it. Iam also inclined to think that similar treatment would.be bene- ficial in the culture of all those varieties of potato which do not naturally vegetate till late in the spring. “Tam not prepared to say what weight of new potatoes may be ob- tained from any given weight of old; but I have reason to think that the young will be equal to the weight of one third at least of the old; and (as I have shown in a communication two years ago) [given verbatim, Gard. Mag., Vol. V. p. 721.] that more than 35,000 lbs. of our best and ‘earliest variety of potato, now cultivated, may be obtained from an acre of ground, the mode of culture recommended will not be found expensive (where artificial heat is not employed), comparatively with the usual price of new potatoes early in the season. Hogs, if hungry, will eat the old tubers when the young have been taken away; but those probably con- tain but little nutriment, and their value, therefore, may not be worth calculating. “‘ Two early varieties only of potato have been the subjects of the above stated experiments; but there does not appear any reason to doubt that similar success may be obtained with all other early kinds.” 3. On raising Apple Trees from Pips. By the Rev. James Ve- nables, C.M.H.S. Read Dee. 1. 1829. Mr. Venables says, he has never found any satisfactory rea- son “why the pips of our best apples should produce most frequently trees little better than a crab.” We will answer him by stating that this is not a matter of fact; the pips of our best apples will most frequently not only produce good apples, but apples more nearly resembling the parent variety than any other variety, and never to be mistaken for the seminal produce of the crab. Let any one take the pips of a golden pippin, a Ribstone pippin, a nonpareil, and a Hawthornden, mix them as he will, and sow them together; and, when they have come up, rear them till they shall all have borne fruit ; and we will engage that any person, who knows the apples named, will be able to refer every seedling to its parent. Any one who has $18 Transactions of the London Horticultural Society. had a little experience in raising apples from seed knows this to be fact; and, indeed, if it were not so, the general analogy between apple trees and other vegetables would not be complete. ‘* It would seem,” the author observes, “that much of the peculiar flavour of fruit depends upon the leaf; and whatever determines the first organisation of this member of the tree, must have considerable influence on its produce.’ The naked apple pip, he thinks, contains too little of the saccharine pabulum for the future tree. It was intended that the de- caying apple should supply this pabulum; and it is, there- fore, suggested that the pip, when it is sown, ‘should be inserted in fruit of the same kind, or in mould enriched by an admixture of decayed apples.” The advice is raticnal, and it would be very desirable to institute an experiment to deter- mine the comparative results of the practice. ‘The reverend author states, that, a few years ago, he put some apple pips into the same furrow with a quantity of decayed apples, and that the fruit of the seedlings thus raised has been of good flavour; but this may be from the parentage of the seedlings, independently of any other cause. 4. Upon the Cultivation of Epiphytes of the O’rchis Tribe. By John Lindley, Esq. F.R.S. &c., Assistant Secretary. Read May 18. 1830. This class of plants is comparatively new to Europe, having been generally speedily lost after their introduction. The Vanilla seems to have been almost the only species that was known in England in the time of Miller, and little more than twenty were to be found in the Kew Garden during the last ten years of the last century. Not more than twelve or fourteen species had been added to the same garden, in the first thirteen years of the present century; and only nineteen species are mentioned as in the Berlin Botanic Garden, one of the richest in Europe, in 1822. It was supposed that this want of success was owing to some peculiar difficulty in their cultivation; and it was there- fore resolved that an attempt should be made to overcome this difficulty, in the Chiswick Garden. Similar attempts, before or about the same time, were made in the stoves of Messrs. Loddiges of Hackney, Messrs. Richard and Arnold Harrison of Liverpool, Mr. Cattley of Barnet, and others; so that the total number of species of this family of plants found in Britain at the time Mr. Lindley’s paper was read, was not less than 200; while the catalogue of the Paris Gar- den, made up to 1829, enumerates only nineteen. We may Transactions of the London Horticultural Society. $19 add that Messrs. Loddiges have now (Dec. 1831) above 300 species. The result of various experiments to ascertain the best soil and climate for these plants may be said to amount to this : — «That a well-drained soil, shade, a very high temperature, and an atmosphere nearly saturated with humidity, are the con- ditions that are requisite to insure their successful cultivation, and that soil itself is of little importance to them. We have used common garden earth, lime rubbish, gravel, decayed vegetable matter, and moss, and all with equal success, pro- vided the drainage was effectual ; and we have found all these equally useless when the drainage was not attended to; a cir- cumstance which is, no doubt, due to the succulent nature of the plants, and to the very imperfect means that most of them possess of parting with superfluous moisture: in consequence of the compact nature of their cuticular tissue, and of the minute size, or small number, of stomata or evaporating pores. We have found that no soil or temperature would nourish them in drought, and that any soil was good when the tem- perature and atmospheric humidity were carefully regulated. To speak very accurately upon these points, I should say, that the mean temperature of the day ought to be 87° or thereabouts, and that its humidity should be at the point of saturation, or nearlyso. We have found that the same plants which refused to grow when placed upon the stage of a hot- house, the air of which possessed the necessary conditions of heat and vapour, flourished with all their native luxuriance, if the pots, in which they were planted, were suspended freely by wires from the roof; a difference which, no doubt, de- pended essentially upon drainage; and we have seen that moss alone would, under these circumstances, maintain in perfect health plants which the most carefully managed soil appeared to kill, if the humidity of the air and the drainage were unattended to. ‘“‘ Having originally taken great interest in this enquiry, I have for some years been collecting information relating to it, and I find that if we had had, in the beginning, the same knowledge of the native habits of orchideous epiphytes that we now possess, those conclusions, that are now the result of many years’ careful and expensive enquiry, would have been obvious inferences prior to any experiments whatever having been instituted. ‘The facts that I have collected are the following : — *¢ Orchideous epiphytes grow naturally upon trees, in the recesses of tropical forests: they establish themselves in the forks of branches, and vegetate amidst masses of decayed 320 Transactions ofthe London Horticultural Society. vegetable and animal matter. In consequence of their position, there cannot A occkigtte any accumulation of moisture about the roots. ‘They will also grow equally well upon recks and stones in similar situations. Mr. W. Harrison of Rio Janeiro is mentioned by one of the Society’s collectors, who visited him, to cultivate, with the most perfect success, above seventy species upon a wall in his garden at Boto Fozo. ‘* We see some of them germinate and grow most luxuriant- ly in damp places, in the stove, upon the sides of the garden pots, and among gravel; and Dr. Wallich found them in all cases growing equally well upon trees and stones, provided the latter had a certain quantity of mould and moss adhering to them. ‘In the Botanic Garden at Calcutta they are cultivated with success in raised beds of solid brickwork, so contrived as to secure the most perfect drainage; the soil being rich vegetable matter, mixed with at least two thirds small peb- bles, and covered with a dense layer of moss. «¢ Shade seems essential to them; their natural situation being in deep forests, or among the branches of growing trees. In Brazil they exclusively occupy damp woods and rich val- leys, among vegetation of the most luxuriant description, by which they are embowered. In Nipal, I learn from Dr. Wallich that orchideous epiphytes grow in company with ferns; and the thicker the forest, the more stately the trees, the richer and blacker the natural soil, the more profuse the Orchideee and ferns upon them. ‘There they flourish by the sides of dripping springs, in deep shady recesses, in inconceiv- able quantity, and with an astonishing degree of luxuriance. “‘ In the Botanic Garden at Calcutta it is found that they thrive best under the shade of trees with dense but airy foliage, such as mimosas, especially the Acacia stipulata, the huge stem of which is the more remarkable when compared with the myriads of minute leaflets by which it is formed. “‘ High temperature and excessive humidity are together the other conditions essential to the well-being of these plants. The hottest countries, if dry, and the dampest, if cool, are destitute of them; while there is no instance of a country, both hot and damp, in which they do not swarm. ‘This can readily be shown.” They are most abundant, in India, in the Malayan Archi- pelago, the mean temperature of which is between 77° and 78°; and the air is‘damp to saturation. In Nipal they are only found upon the sides of the lower mountains, where they vegetate among clouds and constant showers. On the con- tinent of India they are almost unknown; because there, Transactions of the London Horticultural Society. $21 though the mean temperature is 80°, the air is dry. In the Calcutta Garden, they grow vigorously in the rainy season, and perish in the hot season. In the hot humid climate of the Isle of France and Madagascar, they exist in vast quantities. In Africa they are rare, except at Sierra Leone, where the air is moist as well as hot; at the Cape they are wholly unknown. “In America, their favourite station, according to Hum- boldt, is in the gorges of the Andes of Mexico, New Granada, Quito, and Peru, where the air is mild and humid, and the mean temperature 63° to 67° Fahr. (17° to 19° cent.). In these localities they are so abundant, that, according to the authors of the Mora Peruviana, abeve 1000 species might be found in Tarma, Huanuco, and Xanxa alone. They are not seen far- ther north than Florida, where a single species, Epidéndrum conépseum, is found on the Magnolza; but it is well known that the vicinity of the Gulf of Mexico, and the effects of the Gulf Stream, give the vegetation of Florida a tropical rather than extra-tropical appearance. In that country this solitary. representation of tropical Orchideze exists in the same region as myriads of Tillandsia usnedides, which usually vegetates beneath the influence of the dampest tropical atmosphere.” In the West Indian Islands, particularly in Jamaica and Trinidad, and on the lower ranges of hills more especially, they are abundant. At Rio Janeiro, where the woods are so damp that it is difficult to dry plants, orchideous epiphytes are found in inconceivable multitudes; but at Buenos Ayres, where the air is dry, they are unknown. In the high dry land of Mendoza, the aridity is still greater; and there the whole order of orchideous epiphytes almost entirely dis- appears. On the west coast of South America, they are unknown as high as Lower Peru; the whole of that region being extremely arid, with the exception of a few valleys. There are two species of Orchideze found in the Mexican Andes, which are exceptions to the general conditions for the growth of the order; two species in Japan, which will grow in a low temperature; and some in New Holland, which thrive in a mean heat of 66° 6’. From these facts, Mr. Lindley thinks those conditions. of culture might have been safely deduced a@ priori, which were arrived at in the Chiswick Gardens experimentally. He is persuaded “that if these facts are carefully borne in mind, we shall no longer experience any difficulty in the cultivation of orchideous epiphytes, and that the time is not distant when the beauty of the dendrobiums and bolbophyllums of India, of the oncidiums of the West Indies, the aerides of China, and the epidendrums of Peru, will add a charm to every hot-house.” (To be continued.) Vou. VUL — No. 38. i, 322 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. Art. Il. Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. Vol. IV. Part II. (Continued from p. 187.) 63. On heating Hot-houses by Steam. By the Rev. James Armi- tage Rhodes, Horsforth Hall, near Leeds, Sept. 22. 1825. Read Dec. 7. 1826. Tus paper, modified a little, appeared in this Magazine (Vol. IV. p. 330.). 64. Account of a Mode of training Vines on the Outside of the alternate Sashes of a Hot-house, by which means excellent Grapes were produced. By James Macdonald, Dalkeith Park. Read Dec. 7. 1826, and Jan. 4. 1827. These grapes are from vines which were trained over the sashes of a glazed hot-house; they were well swelled, and of the richest flavour, the summer and autumn of 1826 having been peculiarly favourable for ripening fruits. The vines had been “ planted about fifteen years, outside of a small stove for the cultivation of tropical plants. The vines have generally been brought into the stove every spring, and trained up to the rafters to pro- duce their fruit ; and m the autumn, when the fruit was matured and cut, the vines were turned out to the open air to winter. : “ But for these two or three years past, in the spring, when the vines were introduced into the house for a crop, I left some of the short wood on the vines outside in the open air; and I found that they matured their fruit every year, equal, both as to size and quality, to those within the house. This year (1826), all the rafters in the stove being covered with choice ornamental creepers, I was induced to make a trial of my whole vines in the open air outside. Accordingly, in the spring, when the buds began to swell, I laid the whole vines down on the ground ; and, to preserve them from the spring frosts, I covered them over with mats and spruce fir boughs, till the end of May. I then trained all the shortest vines on the front ashlar wall [a wall made of freestone as it comes from the quarry], which is about 23 ft. high, filling in as many as it could contain. I then took the longer shoots, and trained them up the front upright rafters, keeping the upright front glass clear. I next procured some very thin laths, and tacked them on each alternate fixed light on the sloping roof, so as not to prevent the running lights from giving the usual air for the house and plants. We tied the vines to the laths as we went along. They remained in this state till the end of August; when I found that those vines on the sloping glass were not making such progress as those on the front ashlar building, or on the front upright rafters, the fruit not swelling equally well. With a view to remedy this, I and one of my young men got a few blocks of wood, 5in. high and 14 in. in width, and nailed them upright on the centre of the long rafter, 2 ft. 3in. apart, on each alternate light ; we got long laths, and stretched them along these blocks, in the direc- tion and according to the slope of the sashes, nailing the laths to the blocks. Then we began at the bottom of the light, and got some small laths to reach across the light; we nailed our stretchers on the top of the laths, and then lifted up the vines and grapes on the top cross-stretchers, tying and regulating them as we proceeded. The cross laths are placed about 18 in. asunder: thus placing them about 7 in. above the rafter, and about 10 in. above the glass. This finished the operation. Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 323 “In a short time, the progress made by the grapes in swelling was quite visible ; and, at the same distance from the glass, they remained till ripened in October and November. “The kinds of grapes are, Black Hamburgh, Black Burgundy, Green Ear White Constantia, White Muscat of Alexandria, and Black ibraltar,”’ 65. Another Hit at the Caterpillars. By Mr. Mackray, Annat. Read June 5. 1828. Insulate the trees or bushes by surrounding them with a small moat of water, retained by an annular canal of tempered clay. This will prevent the spread of the caterpillars from one bush or tree to another. 66. Of the Disease in Turnips called Anbury, or Fingers and Toes. Queries were circulated for information on this subject, in 1819; and five communications in answer were received. Mr. Sinclair, formerly of Woburn Abbey, now of the New Cross Nursery, has observed the galls or tubercles on turnips © since ever he had any knowledge of the culture of the plant. He has observed the effects of the disease upon plants about seven weeks old, but not earlier. When the plant is taken up, and the gall opened, it is found to contain the larva of an insect, sometimes not large enough to be distinguished by the naked eye. As soon as the larva becomes in a fit state, the gall begins to putrefy. “* The excrescence becomes soft and spongy, the rind bursts, and a fetid smell, peculiar to decomposing vegetable matter, exhales from it. Par- tridges appear to be very fond of the larva: whenever they are seen to con- gregate among affected turnips, the galls are found perforated, and the imsect taken out. Several insects are now attracted to the putrefying mass; a species of JZasca [fly] deposits its egg on the surface. The larve - burrow in the mass ; these are followed by different species of Staphylinus, Pe/derus, &c. The former of these seem to live.on the larve of the Musca; for two of these lived three months, while supplied with these larvee, but died soon after the supply was discontinued. They did not appear to touch the matter of the turnip, on which the larvz of the fly lived. Under these circumstances, when moist weather occurs, the mass affected soon wastes away, and frequently a large root is found a mere shell. The larvae are found solitary : how great a number soever inhabits a root, every individual occupies a distinct cell. It appears to bea species of the Cynips of Linnzeus ; and the Diplolepariz of Leach, Geoffroy, &c. In the head, mandibles, jaws, &c., it is similar to the larve which live on the root of the cauliflower, broccoli, and other varieties of Brassica Napus and oleracea. The colour of the larva varies according to the colour of the root; it is white in the common field globe turnip, and in cauliflower ; yellow in the root of rape, and Swedish turnip, Scotch yellow, &c. The latter‘appear to be less subject to the disease than the white globe and tankard varieties. In two instances where I collected specimens of severely affected roots, and also of the soil, for chemical examination, I found the roots had been in contact with a portion of tree leaves, which, probably, evans 324 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. had come with the manure ; but, in other instances, I found roots equally diseased to which no manure had been applied. In some experiments instituted by his Grace the Duke of Bedford, which | have had the honour to conduct, on the nature of salt as a manure, simple, and combined with other substances, as stable-dung in different states, lime, soot, cil-cake, &c., applied in different modes, and in various proportions, to soils differ- ing essentially from each other in their natural properties, as loams, sili- ceous sandy soils, clayey soils, peats, and heath or moor soils, for the erowth of the different useful species of agricultural plants; the results, as it immediately regards this particular affection of turnips, have not been so decisive in favour of salt or lime as I had anticipated; for the disease appeared in every case, though in different degrees. Combinations of salt and lime were evidently the most effecual, as no instance occurred of the bulb being affected below the surface of the soil. That portion of it, how- ever, which was above the surface was affected with galls, the same as in the bulbs grown on soils of the same nature, to which no application of manure had been applied. On a space of the same soil, to which salt simply had been applied the preceding spring, and from which time the soil remained fallow, the crop was good. One plant in ten, however, was affected with the disease below the surface as well as above it. The salt in this instance had been applied at the rate of 86 bushels per acre, and mixed with the surface 4in. deep; it was applied in the first week of May, 1818. On one portion of it barley and turnips were sown, but they did not vegetate, the dose being too great. The season following, however, the crops were good. On the same soil lime was applied at the rate of 120 bushels per acre, and the disease was not less general than in the former case. Lime was applied to a clayey loam, and to siliceous sandy soils, at the rate of 120 bushels per acre to 25, and salt from 86 bushels to 5 per acre, but without any decisive effects in the prevention of this dis- ease of turnips. The maximum and minimum of salt were here nearly ascertained. In every distinct soil, the quantities applied were the same, and the trials made under the same circumstances. With regard to the mode of applying salt and lime for turnips, that of mixing it with the soil, previously to sowing the seed, or applying it to the surface after sowing, proved best; for, when salt and lime are mixed, and deposited with the seed, vegetation is retarded from two to twelve days, and more, beyond the natural period. This fact was proved on the seed of eight different spe- cies of plants, sown on four different kinds of soil. However beneficial, therefore, salt or lime, in other respects, is to the soil (a subject not within the present enquiry), and though they seem, when combined, to modify this disease, yet it appears they are not, either in a simple or combined state, a specific remedy for this disease in turnips... . . * T have procured seed from roots perfectly free from this disease, sowed in a situation excluded from the neighbourhood of any other species or variety of Brassica; which, when sown on land that, to my knowledge, never was sown with turnip seed before, and on old garden land, in both cases produced bulbs more or less affected by this disease. Whether the reverse of this takes place, I have not had an opportunity to obtain satis- factory proofs ; and until the minute particulars of the economy or natural habits of the insect, which is doubtless the immediate cause of the disease, is intimately known, it will be difficult to proceed in devising any plan of prevention, with a hope of certainty of success. One point is clear and evident, that whatever increases the vigour and rapid growth of the turnip plant, in its early stages of growth, checks with considerable force the pro- gress and bad effects of this formidable disease. ... . “ This disease appears to lessen the nutritive powers of the turnip, in various degrees, according to its violence.” 15 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. $25 Arthur Young, Esq., the secretary to the Board of Agri- culture, states, of his own knowledge, that the disease in tur- nips called fingers and toes has been known in Suffolk about fifty years. He has no idea of the cause, and never heard of any remedy. Messrs. D. and A. Macdougal of Cessford, near Kelso, affirm that the disease has been known in their neighbour- hood nearly twenty years. ‘They think that the disease ori- ginates in the bite of some insect upon the fibres, &c. The Rey. George Jennings, Prebendary of Ely, states that the disease in turnips called anbury has been known in the eastern part of England as far back as forty years. He con- ceives it to be caused by a grub forming its nidus in the bulb. ‘“‘ | have not traced the progress of the larva so as to ascer- tain the species of insect; but a small maggot or grub is visible in every excrescence upon the turnip which I have examined ; in some instances, three or four very near together in the same lump. If it results from the punctures made by some insects, eggs must be deposited at the same time. I know of no remedy which has been tried to prevent this disease in the turnips.” Sir John Sinclair, having “ found some notes on the sub- ject,” sends a recipe for a liquid, containing salt, tobacco, soap, soot, and lime, to be poured round the roots of each plant; and which “ has been found useful in destroying the insect, if applied early, that is to say, before it has eaten its way deep into the root.” We have no faith in recipes of this sort: what would penetrate to and kill the insect would un- questionably destroy the plant. The editor of the Farmer’s Journal has observed the anbury, or ambury (the word is borrowed from farriery, in which art it is applied to small knots or excrescences, warts or wens, on the leins or flanks of horses), only in very dry seasons. He says, it is doubtless occasioned by insects ; per- haps, piercing the roots near the surface, and depositing their egos, which, as in multitudes of other cases, produce knobs, and intercept the ascent of the vegetable nutriment (sap). If when the disease has taken place, plentiful rains ensue, the bulbs put out other roots (or, more properly speaking, other fibres enlarge) to supply the places of those which are wounded. 67. An Account of some Seedling Apples and Plums which have been raised at Coul, in Ross-shire. By Sir George Stuart Mac- kenzie, Bart. Read Dec. 26. 1826. See the Horticultural Society’s Catalogue of Fruits, 2d edit. > Yo 326 Memoirs of the Caledoman Horticultural Soczety. 68. On Canker in Fruit Trees, depending upon bad Subsoil. By Mr. Peter Campbell, Gardener at Coulston, East Lothian. Mr. Campbell agrees with various other gardeners in “thinking that canker is owing to a stintiness that takes place in the trees from a bad subsoil.” He found the trees under his care rooting down into a sand mixed with some clay of a reddish colour, and interspersed with veins of sand as black as ink. He found the roots that went into this black sand quite swelled and overgrown; and, on examining the inner part of the wood of the root, he found it of an iron colour, and very hard. He then set about removing the sur- face soil to the depth of 18 in., and for the space $ ft. all round the tree; he then cut the tap roots that went right down. “ T then made two cuts opposite each other, as lowas the under part of the trunk, so as to place a beam of wood across below the trunk, and to prevent it from sitting down or sinking, owing to its being so much hol- lowed out below. I then cut off all the roots I thought diseased, and cleared the mould out another foot’s distance, which was 4 ft. out from the trunk all round. Having no flags, I floored the pit I made below the roots with bricks and large slates laid close together, so as to prevent the roots from entering into the black sand again; and formed the flooring of a con- cave form rather than even or level, so as to make the roots or young fibres incline upwards, which is a great means to prevent the roots from entering so soon into the subsoil. I mixed good mould with very rotten cowdung, and filled up the pit with it; at the same time beating in every course below the trunk of the tree with the end of a beater made for the purpose, so as to prevent the tree from sliding down too hard on the beam -of wood..... “ The second operation is the pruning of the tops of the trees. I com- menced on one side of the trees, and pruned regularly round, cutting off all the cankers, not leaving one branch or bit of wood that had a canker in it on any of the trees. In some of the trees I pruned two thirds of the wood ; others I pruned, leaving only one fifth part of the wood; which operation was executed according to the state the tree was in. “ By this treatment, the trees are become quite healthy, and free from any moss or lichen; and not the least appearance of a eanker, where formerly every year’s growth cankered the second year, and had done so, as far as I could observe by numbering the growths or shoots, for ten years back. I have done espalier, wall, and standard apple trees in the mode before stated ; and it is to be observed that all the trees, except one, are above forty years old.” 69. On the Germination of Seeds, and subsequent Vegetation. By John Murray, Esq. F.L.S.&c. Read June 7. 1827. There is no philosopher of the present day more active in his researches than Mr. Murray, and many of these have ended in important practical results. Mr. Murray has the great ad- vantage of being, or having been, a practical man. “ Mustard and cress were sown on black woollen cloth kept constantly wet. The germination was tardy, the growth exceedingly dwarfish, and Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. $327 the vegetation altogether sickly. Seeds from the same packets, grown on patches of white and of red woollen cloth, were luxuriant and beautiful... . The retardation and final suspension of the vegetation are, no doubt, to be ascribed to the iron, the base of the colouring matter in black. : “ Mustard and cress seeds were sown in powdered alum, sulphate of iron, sulphate of soda, sulphate of magnesia, muriate of soda, and muriate of lime, in small glass capsules, and duly watered ; with the exception of the last, which, bemg a deliquescent salt, did not require it. Two cress seeds only germinated in the powdered alum, but no vegetation appeared in the others. * Mustard and cress seeds were partially roasted, by being projected on ignited iron ; yet a great portion of them afterwards grew on wetted flan- nel. Seeds were likewise submitted to the action of boiling water, and the temperature suddenly reduced : all these grew. Hence, some seeds can sustain an elevated temperature without the destruction of their vitality. “ Peas and beans, with boiling water poured on them, and suffered gra- dually to cool, sprouted in a few hours, and grew remarkably well, having been transferred, when cold, to wetted flannel. This experiment furnishes a very easy method of ascertaining, in a sufficiently prompt way, whether the vegetative power is suspended by age or other causes. “ I put sprang peas into alcohol, of specific gravity 1812; but little pro- gress was made in ten days : those placed in naphtha and ammonia decayed. Peas placed in alcohol, naphtha, and sulphuric ether exhibited no evolu- tion of incipient germination. ‘** Mustard and cress seeds were sown in iodine, dilute sulphuric acid, dilute muriatic acid, and dilute nitric acid; chlorate of potassa, hydriodate of potassa, muriate of iron, sulphate of iron, and caustic potassa: they gave no evidences of germination whatever, though they were regularly supplied with water. “* Cress sown on carbonate of magnesia, and attentively watered, germi-. nated freely: hence there must be some error with the late Mr. Tenant’s conclusion, as this experiment is completely opposed to his deductions. It is one of first-rate importance, as many farmers have been induced, from Mr. Tenant’s experiment, to discard magnesian limestone, as injurious to vegetation ; though they had a supply of it at hand, and bring from a dis- tance limestone of a different character. “ Mustard germinated freely in the tincture of iodine, and the vegetation was fine. “ Tufts of mustard and cress, growing on different parcels of sponge, were placed in capsules with the following solutions : — Sulphate of iron (copperas): vegetation here fell the first victim. Sulphate of copper (blue vitriol): this fell the second in succession. Acetate of lead (sugar of lead): this fell the third. Muriate of mercury (corrosive sublimate) was the last survivor. * Some younger plants, though nearer the surface, sustained the green colour after the tallest had fallen; but cress seemed to be the last to suf- fer. The vegetable matter, in each instance, was duly tested by the neces- sary reagents. That with sulphate of iron, after the stems had been macerated with distilled water, became decidedly blue with hydrocyanate of potassa; that with muriate of mercury was rather equivocal on being examined by caustic potassa. In the specimen destroyed by sulphate of copper, the lower parts of the stems and transverse portions, where they were cut, became of a violet tint with ammonia. The vegetable matter that had been destroyed by acetate of lead, tested with hydriodate of po- tassa, was not appreciable ; but on being crushed in solution of chromate of potassa, the capillary vessels were beautifully dyed by the new-formed chromate of lead. y 4 328 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. “ These last experiments prove that vegetation is affected by the metal- lic poisons, sulphate of copper, acetate of lead, and corrosive sublimate, and perish under their influence. They also prove that ferrugious matter holds the first rank in these deadly poisons; and, in this respect, there is a difference between animal and vegetable life. When iron obtains in any soil, there is an enemy to contend with; and sand and lime, in due pro- portions, appear to me to be the only remedy: the lime decomposing the salt of iron, and the silica combining, in the character of an acid, with the oxide thus separated. Such a combination we find in the baths of Lucca, &c. The experiments also show the comparative fatality, and yield decided evidence of the passage of the substances into the system of vegetable being, and, of necessity, their consequent absorption by the roots; the young stems having been always cut above the surface of the sponge, and apart from the roots. It is not, therefore, the mere root that is affected, but the entire plant in its higher organisation. “ Tufts of vegetation, similar to those already described, were placed in capsules with the following solutions : — Dilute nitric acid, hydriodate of potassa, and chlorate of potassa. These are arranged in their relative order as to their comparative permanence ; the tuft placed m dilute nitric acid having fallen first, and that in chlorate of potassa remaining longest unaffected. The stems of that with nitric acid slightly reddened litmus paper, when macerated in distilled water ; that im hydriodate of potassa gave an abundant yellow precipitate with acetate of lead; and that from chlorate of potassa deflagrated like nitre, on an ignited disc of platinum. “ T would not, however, be supposed as inferring, from the last experi- ment, that, though chlorate of potassa does in quantity injure vegetation when thus applied to the roots, a small portion in solution might not occa- sionally be beneficial, and act (in some plants, at least) as a stimulus to vegetation. Last season, when all my carnations seemed rapidly proceed- ing to destruction, in consequence of the arid summer (1826), and many had already perished, I succeeded, by a few waterings with solution of nitre (an analogous salt), not only to save the remainder, but to impart to them a beautiful luxuriance of growth. The effect was very manifest, and. remarkably prompt ; and I now possess a hundred very beautiful plants.” 70. Account of the Mode of Culture adopted at Cunnoguhie in raising Pine-apples and Melons in a Pit heated by Steam, with a Description of the Pit and Steam Apparatus. By Mr. Alexander Smith, Gardener to Colonel George Paterson of Cunnoquhie. The pit was erected in 1824, on a plan furnished by Mr. Hay of Edinburgh, founded on a principle of heating devised by Mr. Hay more than twenty years previous to that time. The pit contains a bed, 2 ft. in depth, of small water-worn stones, or pebbles, which are heated by pipes of steam. Over the bed of pebbles is placed a cover of Arbroath pavement, sup- ported on brick pillars. The boiler is of copper, with a large iron pipe, which lies in the bottom along the, middle of the bed of stones, and is perforated at certain distances with holes for diffusing the vapour among the stones. The bottom of what is destined to be the plant-bed is paved; but “intervals are left between the edge of the pavement and the wall, in order to allow the steam to communicate with flues which are at Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 329 filled, like the bottom of the floor, with small round stones. At short distances, on the top of these flues, are fixed small iron tubes, with caps which are removable at pleasure, to admit or exclude the steam of the flues and floor from the atmosphere of the pit, as occasion may require. ‘The outer wall, on each side, adjacent to the flues, is built double, with a small interval between the parts; which prevents un- necessary waste of heat, and allows any heated air or steam which may escape through the interstices of the bricks to pass into the atmosphere of the pit. The pots of pines are placed on a layer of cinders 4 in. in depth, which rests on the pavement; and the interstices around them are filled as high as their edges with tanner’s bark. The pots are never moved except for repotting. ‘The temperature of the air of the pit, in winter, is kept at 50° or 55°. About February, it is raised to 65° or 70°; in May, to 75° or 80°; and in autumn, while the fruit is ripening, it is kept at 65° or 70°. The plants generally fruit in the second year. The steam required to produce the winter temperature is about an hour and a half in 24 hours; that to maintain the autumn temperature, an hour or an hour and a half in 48 hours. In all cases, fire is applied to the boiler about six o’clock in the evening, and steam is procured a little before seven. In cultivating melons in these pits, a bed of proper soil is placed over the stratum of ashes. ‘ When the plants are put in, steam is to be applied once in 48 hours, an hour and ahalf at atime. A very little watering is necessary till the fruit be set; after which it is to be applied more freely. From the time when the plants appear, to the setting of the fruit, the heat is kept near 60°; and afterwards about 65°. In warm weather, steam is required only about once a week.” Melons and pine-apples raised in this pit were exhibited to the Caledonian Horticultural Society, and very much ad- mired; and the silver medal was awarded to Mr. Smith. 71. Account of a glazed House, adapted for the Culture of Peach Trees, Grape Vines, and ornamental Plants. By Mr. R. F. D. Livingstone, Planner. The only peculiarity in this house, deserving of notice, is, that the vine-border is placed at the back wall, and within the house, in order to separate it from the peach-border, which is placed against the front wall, and without the house. ‘The house is 40 ft. long by 16 ft. wide, and heated by one fire. On the whole, the plan seems not unsuitable for what may be called a hot-house of all work. The following is a descrip- tion of its section ( fig. 54.): — 330 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 5A a, Stage for plants. b, Arched wall for support of stage. @ Arched wall and back flue. d, Raised walk, or gangway, in front of stage. e, Arched wall for support of walk. Ff, Arched wall and front flue. g, Peach trellis. h, Stone for support of peach trellis. é, Made border for vines: it is 14 ft. wide, 5ft. deep at back, and 3ft. at front. Here the vines are planted against the back wall, and trained down the rafters, one branch to each, on the spur mode of pruning. &, Peach border within and without the front wall. 2, Front shelf, for forcing strawberries, &c. 72. Account of a Mode of producing a steady and uniform Bottom Heat in Pine-apple or Melon Pits, or in Stoves for Exotic Plants, by means of Steam introduced into a close Chamber filled with Water-worn Stones. By Mr. John Hay, Planner, Edinburgh. Read March 5. 1829. We have already (Vol. V. p. 443. and 450.) noticed this important improvement in exotic culture; and stated that the first idea of applying steam to the heating of hot-houses occurred to Mr. Hay about the year 1794. In 1807, a pine- stove was designed and executed for the Duke of Northum- berland, at Alnwick Castle, by Mr. Hay, in which a chamber below the bark-bed was filled by stones heated by steam ; but, as the pipes and supply of steam were too small for the mass of stones, the use of this mode of heating was in this instance not long continued. Mr. Hay did not, however, lose sight of the principle; and accordingly, in 1818, applied it in small pine-pits at Castle Semple, and in pine-stoves at Bargany. About the end of the year 1820, Mr. Hay says : — Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 331 * T caused the chamber of the steam-pit, which I had erected at Castle Semple two years before, to be filled with stones, those of the larger size below, and the smaller above. About this time I entertained the idea, and suggested it to the late Mr. Harvey, that in such pits, prepared with suitable compost, the pine-apple might be cultivated in the earth without pots, as in the West Indies, by growig the plants for one year in the pit, and bringing them to fruit in the next; and so on alternately. With this in view, experiments were instituted to ascertain the difference of temper- ature communicated to the soil above, by the chamber without stones, and by the chamber with stones, and its duration. The result was decidedly in favour of the latter method, as it was found to retain the heat much longer than the other, as indicated by the steam-pit thermometer. So far I was satisfied with the application of the principle which I had long had in view; and, in order further to try its effects, I caused the gardener to make up a bed of suitable compost in a part of the pit, and desired him to plant in it some of the smallest pine-apple plants he had, such as the suckers from the bottom of the fruit, only a few inches high. On my return to Castle Semple, the following autumn, I was surprised to find that the plants had made far greater progress than I expected, being more than double the size their treatment by the old method warranted me to look for. I may here observe, that, if the plants will grow freely under this treatment, in such pits, I have strong hopes that, by keeping the fruiting plants under a moderate degree of bottom heat, during the winter months, and raising it considerably higher in spring, they would start regularly into fruit; and if this were found to be the result in practice, the views I origin- ally entertained on this point would be realised. I now became fully con- vinced of the value and importance of this method of applying heat for the cultivation of ananas, and resolved thereafter to adopt it im all practicable cases.” Sixty feet of pine-pits are now erected at Castle Semple; and the gardener, Mr. Lauder, states “ that the pines are as successful in the steam-pits, as in those wrought with leaves, and with only one tenth part of the expense ; as, in the one case, the plants never require to be removed during the whole year, for the purpose of renewing the heat, while, in the other case, viz. the pits wrought with leaves, they require, he says, to be turned over, and new leaves added five times in the year; and it takes seven men, for two days each time, to perform this operation, that is, on the two pits. He states, also, that it is his intention this spring (1829), as I recommended two years ago, to plant one half of one of the steam- pits with plants, not in pots, but in a bed of soil made up for them, and to fruit them the summer after the next. The steam, he says, is admitted into the chamber, among the stones, only an hour and a half every forty- eight, which he finds to be quite sufficient to keep up the bottom heat as high as is necessary. During the winter, he has not admitted the steam for so long a period, having only kept the heat to the bottom of the pots from 75° to 80°; but now, as he wishes to start the plants into fruit, he intends to raise it to 90°.” The following description of a plan and section of a set of pits, erected, in 1824, for Colonel Paterson, Cunnoquhie, for the growth of melons, but which will serve equally well for that of pines, or other hot-house plants, is dated March, 1829: — “ The same letters of reference apply to the corresponding parts, both in the ground plan (fig. 55.) and the section (jig. 56.). 332. Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. KCKWW S\ iff tre.) : 7 gt a8) ESS Z Ge y ZI abe YA Be eee | Goeth sek eae 3, Zeer pases" Bs Bas YveraeYy 8 y st Feze2 of yy B eZ Ela g Sad peoeet = YoY =i BSS eS Y ZAG beees Y 55 Decl ease 1 / kes: 1 Yves S265 52 = Ale 7 CAWnes ale Ie Se 6 GAGES ee NG zs Bee, ZY Dees BV sreg QUA es eiekee | Vesey Y Ja bsses , G eecesas Y 1 Zhesy GeeseZ Wil bo esces|V Zyese yiseee y IZ 220) 7 Zea Neel | |i “1 yy Zw | eet | eeesée|s wis ey oh eet Se Zi eeeese |) Zccees| eee | a el | EL we Ze) yess. igs 807 Y : Y Yes Woes Ala Z Soy Yyy We eees Y) | & Yo ¢ Z =e) lezce Bi [Peele os | 56 WG \ Jexy\ee Y wme Se|Gee a ll Si ee Seal eal Ml \ stl NY JA We eS AA = D2 Weece MZ SS) N Y ise GY ZG |= ANG Y AL i jee BS (== === VA iA AS ale WNW, N= = — 7 ee y = MZ 7. Yor aWZAZ iv SSS) Yea y () d || fe 2 zzz 7 | | aM uy : L Te Pw eeeee J SSS ull : VA | © = AAAZ SS : I Jlae AWAY 2 &S6 y 7 o KW Y © Zac Zaoe 28 7 ZY g 41 6Sna% El eee | Ee Li Vi Rae eat 1 he i Ech ee eg fa AYool Z 12) Y ee ae yee Vv gi ej IAAF | “aBcD, The external walls of the pits, built of droved ashlar, 8 in. thick. In the upper course of ashlar, on both sides, are gutters for carrying off the rain-water from the roof sashes. The drawing is 10 ft. over the walis. “4, Anelevated walk, with steps, on which the gardener may stand with ease, and do any work in the pits. F, a step for the same purpose. 6, a paved or gravelled walk. “ui1KL, Wall of steam-chamber 43 in, thick, of square stock bricks, closely jointed with Roman cement. Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 333 i YY ly Yy YY Te. EX Yy WY TH me) mp \N WA oe, i ! NAM Wf \ , Cail | | ——N| ———— | UU Y ili Bi i = = ! | ——— lil a _—————— 1 “ aa, Open space the inside of the external wall and that of the steam-chamber on being the 1 in., between ; the projecting parts (4) in the section b 334 Memozrs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. ends of brick built out of the walls of the chamber in an irregular manner, so as to touch the outer wall, for the purpose of strengthening the inner one; but these must not be so numerous as to prevent the heat from rising and diffusing itself freely through the pits. “cc, Brick pillars, 9in. square, supporting the cover of the steam- chamber, &c. “dd, Pieces of rough flags, 6 or 7in. broad, and 3 thick, linteling over the open space between the brick pillars, and supporting the inner wall of the steam-flue ee. This wall is 3 in. thick, built of stock bricks, and closely jointed with Roman cement. The depth of the plant pit is 20 in. “ff; A course of bricks, 9in. broad, for the seat of the steam-pipes. On each side of this is a gutter 3 in. broad, and the same in depth; the floor of the steam-chamber has a rise of 3 in. on both sides, from the edge of the gutters to the outer walls; and is paved with hard common bricks laid in lime. The upper bed of the lintel (d d) is 2 ft. 10in. in height, above the floor of the pit at the wall. ““m_N 0, Cast-iron steam pipes, of 3in. bore (in some cases they are $in.), on the opposite sides of which, a line of half-inch holes (g g) are bored at 2 ft. distance from each other, in quincunx order: there is thus one hole for every foot of pipe in length. “hhh, Cisterns cut out of solid stone, 6 in. square, and 6 deep, having grooves a quarter of an inch deep on the top of the opposite edges at the gutters. As the ground on which the pits are built falls from east to west, the condensed steam in the east division of pipes returns into the boiler ; but, as on the west it cannot do so, pieces of pipe three fourths of an inch bore, and 4 in. in length, are cast on the under side of the steam-pipe at hhh, in the west division.. The condensed steam passes through these pipes into the cisterns, and flows over into the gutter, as does also the con- densed steam from the chamber, and is carried off by the small drains ¢ 7. “kk, Cast-iron rollers in frames, on which the pipes rest, the under part of the pipes being 24 in. above the brick seat. “7d, in fig. 55., and in fig. 57., are slide valves or cocks, by which the 57 steam is admitted at pleasure into the pipes of the melon-pit. The draw-rod passes through an oblong opening in the cover m, which is of polished Ar- broath pavement, and the opening is covered over with an oblong piece of brass about five eighths of an inch thick, secured to the stones by bats and screws. This piece of brass has also an oblong opening, through which the rod of the valve passes to the outside of the plant-pit, and is of such length as to allow for the elongation of the iron pipes when heating, and their contraction in becoming cold. On the surface of this piece of brass is placed an- other, furnished with a stuffing-box, through which the rod passes, and keeps it in its place. Both are fitted close to each other, and kept down by a leaden weight ; and thus the escape of steam from the chamber below into the atmosphere of the pit is prevented. After this simple apparatus has been adjusted, the cross handle of the rod is fixed on with a screwed nut. “n, A stuffing-box, made of two pieces of sandstone, batted together, with a circular cast-iron cover bolted to the stones; the box is stuffed with lint and a little tallow, to prevent the heat and steam from passing from the one pit into the other. The pipes being laid, small brick pillars (0 0) are built on each side, about 5in. higher than the upper side of the steam pipe. These pillars support pieces of rough flags (p) in the section, cross- AUTRE TTO OMT ft YW Ss N WU We Wh MWUMM@E@@EeqMM@| WM ZS Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 335 ing the pipes, with openings left between each piece. The pillars must be so placed that they shall not intercept the steam issuing from the blow- holes. This cover prevents any pressure of the stones upon the pipes. Were this not attended to, the repeated motion of the pipes among the stones, in expanding or contracting, would soon shake or rend the whole building. The first three layers of stones at the bottom of the steam- chamber are 43 to 4 in. in diameter; they are then gradually reduced from 4 to 341, 3 to 21 and 2in.; the layers near the top are about the size of hen’s eggs, those above about the size of pigeon’s eggs, and the levelling rows at the top that of large marbles. “ The covers (7) of the steam-chamber are of Arbroath pavement, 23 in. thick, half-checked on each other, and laid down so as to rest upon the top of the pillars cc, pressing gently on the small stones below, and closely jointed with Roman cement. Where proper flags cannot be procured, some of these pits have been covered with checked bricks made of fire clay, 18 by 9in., and laid on cast-iron rafters. “ The covers of the steam-flues (R R) are laid in the same manner ; they are 24 in. thick, and let into the sides of the flues with a half-inch check. “ss, Cast-iron steam-tubes, with lifting covers; the tubes are 23 in. diameter, by the same in height. On the bottom of the tubes, a square piece is cast, which is sunk into the top of the cover of the steam-flue, and fixed with lead. By lifting the covers of the tubes, the steam, which is greatly modified before it reaches them, will emit a moist heat to the plants, and even raise the temperature; and, by replacing the covers, the heat will be immediately withdrawn. “‘s, Represents about 4 in. of furnace ashes. “tt, A movable piece of wood, to raise the bed of earth for the plants near the glass, if required. “7, Boiler, with gauge cocks and safety valves, &c. “ «wu, The alarm pipe dipping in the boiler a little below the lowest gauge cock. Should any accident prevent the regular supply of the boiler with water, as soon as it has evaporated to this level, the steam rushes up the pipe, producing a loud whistling noise, and giving notice to the gar- dener that his attendance is required to the boiler. “wu, Feeding cistern, with hydrostatic balance and valves. I may mention here, that steam, at a moderate pressure, of from 1 lb. to 2 lbs. per square inch, is, in my opinion, better adapted for the purposes intended by these pits than steam at a higher pressure. “vy, Cistern and ball-cock for supplying the boiler, having a waste-pipe, about three fourths of an inch higher than the water stands in the boiler, with a cock which drains both the cistern and the boiler, when it is neces- sary to clean them. It was first designed to supply the boiler of the steam- pits at Cunnoquhie by a feeding apparatus ; but it was afterwards thought that the gardener would manage it with more ease, if it were supplied with water from a small cistern connected with it on the same level, and the cistern fed by a properly constructed cock, and half globular ball; the steam being thus blown upon the stones in the steam-chamber at the atmospheric pressure. “71, on the ground plan, Slide valves or cocks. The case of the valve is of cast-iron, with a brass slide fitted into the inside, and a stuffing-box, and cross-headed handles. These valves admit the steam into either of the pipes at pleasure, or into both at the same time; and when this is the case, that there may be a sufficient supply of steam for both, the bore of the pipe (x) is made 4 in. “The furnace being finished, and the pipes laid, the passages for the pipes into the pits w w are firmly stuffed with dried moss, and two pieces of stone are prepared to fit the circumference of the pipes, leaving no more 336 Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. than room for their expansion. These being put in, the openings left for introducing the pipes are built up. “ The section of that part of the pits to be used for the culture of pine- apples is 10 in. higher, both on the south and north, than that for melons. The glass roof consists of two sashes, with a ridge-tree between them 13 in. thick, to which the rafters are fixed, and the upper ends of the sash-stiles hinged. The hinge crosses the top of the ridge at the height of the sash, having a joint on each side, with movable pins ; the middle part is screwed ; to the ridge, and the tails to the middle of the sash-stiles, before the cope or upper part of the ridge-tree is fixed on. The front or south sash is made more than double the length of the north one, that the influence of the sun’s rays may reach the back of the plant-pit. The sashes are 2 ft. 3 in. broad. “ The rafters are 14 in. thick between the sashes, and continue at. this thickness for fully a quarter of an inch above the sides of the sashes. They are then reduced on both sides three eighths of an inch, the remainder being six eighths of an inch thick, and 12 in. high, with a cope on the top of it, which is mitred into the cope of the ridge-tree. This forms a place for receiving wooden shutters to cover the glass at night m winter. To the under part of the rafters, at the height of the wall-plates (which are 2 by 42 in.), are nailed pieces of deal 1; in. thick, and broader than the rafters by lin. on each side. At the bottom these are checked into the wall- plates; and, together with the wall-plates, form the rest for the under side of the ashes. On each side of the rafters, near the bottom, and to the edge of the sash-rest, an iron stay is screwed, haying a hook at the upper end, and moving on the serew-nail with which it is fixed. An iron eye is screwed into the edge of the rest for the hook to enter. On the under side of each sash-stile other eyes are screwed, and so placed, that, when the sashes are opened and the end hooks of the stays placed in them, the gardener may have headroom to do any work in the pits. All the sashes at the bottom are furnished with iron handles. Air is given by tilts m the common way. “ Tt will be found that there is a sufficient degree of bottom heat in the plant-pits either for the culture of ananas or melons, and other plants ; the flags at the bottom (7) and the sides (e e) of the plant-pits, being all in con- tact with a mass of heated matter, which is excluded from the action of the external air. It will also be seen that there is a sufficient degree of heat for the atmosphere of the pits. Take, for imstance, the end division, or melon-pit: the depth of the steam-chamber is 3ft., the plant-pit is 1 ft. 8in., and the breadth of the cover of the flue is 1 ft. 2in.; making together 5ft. 10in.: the length of the chamber wall on both sides is 9 ft. Gin.; together equal to 19ft. This, multiplied by 5ft. 10in., gives 111 superficial feet nearly. The end of the chamber wall is 8 ft. 4in., which, multiplied by 3ft., the depth of the chamber, gives 25 ft; both together making nearly 136 sq. ft. of surface in close contact with a mass of stones heated to about 170°. But should this be found to give out too little heat, a considerable increase may be obtained by making the steam- flue return on each end of the pits as some of them have been built ; or, if a drier and greater degree of heat be required than that given out by the brick wall of the chamber, this may be easily accomplished by constructing the chamber wall either of Arbroath pavement, or the kind found in the neighbourhood of Dundee, which is still better adapted for the purpose, as it is not only very hard, and impervious to moisture, but may be got of any suitable dimensions. In constructing the chamber of these materials, two flags, of 4 ft. 10 in. long and 33 in, thick, may be set up on end, the height of the chamber and flue, and two others of any length laid horizontally between them, and so on, till the chamber is completed. They will require Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural Society. 337 no other work than to be properly joggled into one another, and jointed with Roman cement. This will give out more heat, and less moisture, than the brick walls, but will not re- 120 deg, tain the heat so long. The open space (a a) round the pits i must be kept clear of rubbish, which may be done by the covers of the steam-flue being made broad enough to cover it, and neat oblong cast-iron lifting ventilators, in frames, 10 in. long, and 22 in. broad, inserted at every foot’s distance, into the cover of the flue above the open space. In this manner, the heat from the sides of the chamber may then be given or withheld at pleasure. “ Tt is of importance, in the management of steam-pits, to have a thermometer so constructed as to render it easy to ascertain the temperature at the bottom of the earth, or pots, in the plant pit. An instrument adapted for this pur- pose is represented in fig. 58.: the ball and stem are pro- tected by a brass case, the upper part of which is composed of two tubes, cut open wide enough to show the scale; the outer one turns round by the hand, and encloses the scale, to protect it when the plants are watered with the syringe.” The Caledonian Horticultural Society voted to Mr. Hay the Londen Society’s medal for 1828, for this improvement. It may, unquestionably, be considered as the best mode of applying steam as a bottom heat; and when it is considered that, instead of the large pipes of “ 3 in. bore,” em- ployed by Mr. Hay as mains or conductors, gas pipes of half an inch in diameter will do just as well, this may be considered as perhaps the very cheapest mode of heating hot-houses, or pits on a large scale, hitherto devised. It has also the great advantage of conveying the heat to any distance from the boiler or source, more especially if the latter be placed in the lowest part of the grounds on which the different houses or pits are arranged. Fora single house, or two or three houses on one and the same level, the circulation of hot water from an open boiler, by the siphon or level mode, will consume less fuel; and Mr. Perkins’s mode will occupy less space ; but neither of these modes will equal in economy the circu- Jation of steam in small pipes. As a proof of this, we may refer to the extensive arrangement of pits in the Bristol Nur- sery, all heated on this principle; and to Messrs. Cottam and Hallen of Winsley Street, and Messrs. Walker of St. John’s Square, Clerkenwell; both of which firms employ this mode of heating, where circumstances render it ‘the most advisable. Indeed, it is one of the most creditable circum- stances connected with these firms, that they are not wedded to any particular mode, but adopt whatever they consider best suited to the particular case. jie We may just observe that we saw, in the summer of 1831, Von. VILL. — No. 38. ie 338 Transactions of the Prussian Gardening Society. Mr. Hay’s mode in operation for early cucumbers, at Mr. Roskell’s, at Gatacre, near Liverpool; and at Bargany and Castle Semple, for pine-apples; and we were perfectly satisfied of its efficiency. ‘The pine-apples which were planted out in the soil at Castle Semple did not appear to show fruit so soon as those in pots; but that was to be expected, and has nothing to do with the mode of heating. Art. II. Verhandlungen des Vereins zur Berforderung des Gare tenbaues in den Koniglich Preussischen Staaten. Transactions of the Society for the Advancement of Gardening in the Royat Prussian States. 4to. Vol. II. Berlin, 1827. Tue present volume contains a number of translations from the London Horticultural Society’s Zransactions, which we shall pass over, as well as all the papers of local interest, and those containing nothing but what is already generally known among British gardeners. 1. On the Construction of Hot-houses. By M. Otto and M. Schram. Houses for keeping plants, such as green-houses, pits, stoves, and conservatories, are first treated of; and, next, forcing-houses. ‘The article is of great length, very elaborate, and illustrated by numerous figures. Transportable forcing- houses are recommended for forcing cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, &c.; because these fruits are found better-flavoured, when matured on trees that have not been transplanted the same season, as is the general practice in Holland, Germany, and Denmark. (See our account of the mode of forcing at Hylands, Vol. III. p. 385.) The fruit trees designed for being forced are directed to be planted close together, that they may be covered with more facility. When the trees have been forced once, they are allowed at least two years of rest. The houses are of the usual British form, with boarded backs instead of walls of masonry, and with cast-iron fire- places, and sheet-iron flues. 3. On Hibiscus figax Mart. By M. Seitz. This is a herbaceous plant from Brazil. ‘The stems die down during the winter, when the roots, being tuberous, must be kept rather dry. It grows well in leaf mould and sand, and is easily propagated “by cuttings aud layers of its angular stems. Transactions of the Prussian Gardening Society. 339 4. On the Use of Camphor in Horticulture. By M. Droste. Camphor is dissolved in alcohol until the latter is satu- rated; the alcohol is then put into soft water, in the propor- tion of two drops to half an ounce. Withered or apparently. dead plants, put into this liquid, and allowed to remain there from two to four hours, will revive, if they have not been completely dead betore being put in. 15. On the Propagation of Vines. By M. Fintelmann. Cuttings are made from 14 ft. to 2 ft. in length, and all the buds removed from them except one at the upper extremity. The shoot is then laid in the soil, to the depth of 6 in., the end having the bud being brought up to the surface. A vi- gorous shoot is made in the first year; and in the second year the plants, if not removed, will bear fruit. 16. On the Preservation of Grapes and Plums. At Berlin, grapes are preserved by cutting the bunch when ripe with about 1 ft. of the wood, above and below the foot- stalk. ‘Lhe ends of the wood are dipped in hot pitch, to keep in the moisture, and the bunch is then hung up in adry place.. The Quetch plum is preserved till March by the following method: — Gather them when perfectly ripe and dry ; put them in a glass jar or bottle, closely tied up, and pitched so as to exclude the air, and then bury them in dry soil 7 or 8 ft. deep, so as to be out of the reach of any change in temperature or moisture. When taken out, they must be used immediately. 18. On shortening the Tap Roots of Trees. By Dr. Schlechtendal. The following principles are laid down : — 1. An injury to any one part of a plant occasions a change in the natural developement of the other parts. 2. Roots and stems are always ina certain degree recipro- cally proportionate to each other. 3. The tap roct does not form a part of every plant; but, where it does so, it is an essential part of that plant. 4, By shortening the tap root, one or other of the follow- ing consequences will result: — tender plants will be more easily destroyed by severe weather ; all sorts of plants by dry weather, from their roots not being so deep in the soil; the wood of the timber trees will be less durable, their trunks shorter, and their heads broader and less high; and fruit trees will blossom earlier and more abundantly, and their fruit will be larger and better-flavoured. 5. To transplant trees, without injuring their roots, is diffi- w 2 340 Transactions of the Prussian Gardening Society. cult in proportion to the age of the tree, and the extent of the roots. 6. All transplanting ought to be done when the trees are young, and then only can the roots be cut without injury. 7. When the tap root descends into a bad subsoil, it brings on diseases in the tree. The general conclusion which the writer draws is, that where the largest and best timber trees are an object, the seeds should be should be sown where the plants are to remain, and, consequently, the tap root never injured; but that, in fruit trees, it should always be shortened, to cause them to spread out horizontal roots near the surface, among the nutri- tive soil. 25. On the Effect of the Frost during the Winter of 1822-3. By M. Bosse. , Peaches and apricots were destroyed by from 15° to 20° below zero of Reaumur (2° to 13° below zero of Fahrenheit). Vines, particularly the oldest plants, were much injured. Cherry trees exuded gum more than usual the next. season. Apples and pears were not generally much hurt, though some of the more tender sorts were killed. Walnuts and chest- nuts were less injured than might have been expected; but Robinéa Psetd- Acacia was killed, and even some oaks on the exposed side of the forest were split. ‘The ground was frozen from 3 to 4 ft. deep. 28. Extract from what passed at the Forty-fourth Meeting of the Society, which took place on Sunday, Aug. 6. 1826. A disease is often observed in peach trees, which occasions the shrivelling up and dropping off.of the leaves in spring. This is supposed to be caused by the sudden changes in the weather checking the sap; and therefore retarding the vege- tation of the tree is said to be an effectual preventive. "The retardation is effected by laying bare part of the roots during the winter. 29. On Prunus cerasifera [the Myrobalan Plum], as a Stock for Plums and Peaches. By M. Borchmayer. After twenty years’ experience, this vigorous-growing stock is confidently recommended. One of its advantages is, that it produces no suckers. It may be propagated either by layers or cuttings. 31. Onthe Use of a Mercurial Ointment in preventing the Ascent of Insects up the Stems of Trees. By Dr. Kitaibel. A cord is smeared with the ointment, and tied round the The Penny Magazine. 341 stem, and over this it is said the insects will not cross. To prevent the ointment from being absorbed by the bark, tar and turpentine, melted together, may be thinly spread on a cloth, that cloth cut into shreds, and of these a fillet formed round the stem, on which the mercurial cord may rest. (To be continued.) Art.IV. Catalogue of Works on Gardening, Agriculture, Botany, Rural Architecture, &c., lately published, with some Account of those considered the most interesting. ANoN.: The Penny Magazine of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge. London. Published every Saturday in Numbers, 1d. each; ~ consisting of 8 quarto Pages of Matter, illustrated by Woodcuts. Doodre ave cvovy Pat ookivy ovise. This is, in many respects, a singular production ; and, if any copy of it shall be preserved, it will give future generations a very extraordinary notion of the state of literature at the present time. If, indeed, we could imagine that every other impress of the mind of England, at the commence- ment of the year 1832, were to be obliterated, and this Magazine to stand alone as our only literary memorial, why, what would our great-great-grand- children think of us? Here is a Society, aggregated for the express pur- pose of “‘ diffusing useful knowledge ;”’ having a central committee of some threescore names; the head of it the first temporal peer in the realm ; a dozen more senators; many with literary and scientific additions ; and the very humblest writing “ Armigero.”” Furthermore, there are twoscore and upward of local branches, which share (upon the paper) the very “ pick and wale” of provincial talent. Surely, if ever old Dulness and Ignorance are to be made to “ rue the day,” this is the wherewithal to vanquish them. And what is the mighty engine in the hands of those giants of the earth ? A Penny Magazine, published every Saturday, in sixteen small and sparse columns, which, in point of quantity, the humblest solitary scribbler who drudges in a garret could produce any day or every day in the week. Ay, but the quality ? Well, the quality: it is bis coctus ; nay, more nauseous still. It is like a “joint-stock quid,” after it has run the gauntlet of twenty pairs of jaws in a back-wood wigwam ; or an acorn, after passing through the same tale of hogs in a Westphalian forest, in the course of nature. It is a mere mélange of patches; many of them published before, by the same Society, in what they call their “ Library of Entertaining Knowledge; ” and in other conglomerates, for which, again, they have been picked up or pirated. How often have the Society (for they are answerable to the in- sulted talent of the country for the conduct of their tools) paid hush- money to those from whom they have pilfered, rather than have the bubble blown up in a court of justice? Did they ever hear of Dr. G. or Mr. R.? They are worse than the “ soul-curer and body-curer” in Shakspeare ; they have “ stolen the scraps,” without having been at “the leash of lan- guages.” A “ full-moon ” of their pennyworth lies before us; let us see for what it is that they go about to chouse the poor out of their pennies : — % 3 $42 The Penny Magazine. No. 1. Charing Cross; Beer; Van Diemen’s Land; the Zoological Gar- dens; Des Cartes; Harvey; sundry scraps (many of them forgotten, and none original); Poland. Take the concluding sentence of the last : — “‘ In the summer the heat is very great, the forests obstructing the free cir- culation of air”? That short sentence is a constellation of falsehoods : false as regards the forests of Poland; false as to the general effect of forests; and betrays equally utter ignorance of the facts of geography and of physics. No.2. Pompeii; Van Diemen’s Land (hyeenas and cats falsely said to be natives of it); Scraps of the “ Entertaining ;” twaddle about a la- bourer’s house. No. 3. Somerset House; Scraps from the Colonial Office, from an American Newspaper, from Locke, from a dead compilation by the pub- lisher, and from others; but none of any use, or affording any amusement. No. 4. Sugar (the Entertaining); Population (Parliamentary Papers) ; Deaf and Dumb (their other journal); Rooks (the Entertaining); the Week (anybody); Walks, and the Essayists (nobody). No. 5. Tea (the Entertaining); American Almanac; a Burgess; Po- verty ; Price of Corn; an Australian Scribbler. Supplement. London Bridge; Travels in Africa; Scrap from Captain Hall; Transit of Mercury ; Home Colonies, by Rowland Hill, esquire and schoolmaster, a committee-man. On the last of these there are some ob- servations, which are really amusing; but we fear they will be lost upon the penny readers. In substance they are these:— There are, say, 100 labourers in a parish, all well employed and well paid; but admit one new-comer, and the whole are ruined. It comes thus: — The new man underbids one of the old, and turns him out ; he turns out the second; the second the third; and so on, till Hob 99 works for the same wages as the new man, and Hob 100 is out of work. He comes as a new man, and the whole are again reduced; and so on, ad injinitum. That piece of ratiocination must be their own; for, silly as some of the books of “ single men” are, there are none that can come up to that: still it contains the essence of all their feeling and all their philosophy. They never suppose that there can be any affection between master and man, or between one labourer and another; and, by the theory, there is no inven- tion. Necessity, the once all-prolific dame, is barren ; and every additional man is additional misery. Need we wonder that there is neither inform- ation nor amusement in what emanates from such a quarter ? Why should it go down to posterity that the Lord Chancellor of Eng- land, and fifty-nine mighty men, and forty societies, had to leave their pubiic duties in order that eight senseless and heartless pages should be published every week; and to save every man from perishing for “ lack of know- ledge,’— knowledge that the mightiest mountain of promise has brought forth the smallest mouse of performance? If our monuments are to shame Grub Street, im mercy to the great ones of the nation let us have the shame of making them upon our own heads! : Is it possible that all or any of the men whose names stand surety, in drab, upon the cover of the “ sixpenn’orth,” had any part or lot in the matter? Heaven forefend! If our judges, our senators, our D.D.’s, our F.R.S.’s, nay, even our esquires, were to be guilty of any thing so ludi- crously absurd as that which we have analysed, why “ The girdling flood had. changed to a strait jacket, And all the isle gone mad.” _ In justice, or in mercy, to the committee of sixty, and the twoscore of provincial branches, we must acquit them of the actual sin of this piece of paste-and-scissors work. Then, how came their names on-the cover ? The Penny Magazine. 343 Why is it “ The Penny Magazine of the Society for the Diffusion of Use- ful Knowledge?” What “enemy” has ‘sowed tares” while those zealots in the cause of instruction slumbered? If we acquit, as we must acquit, their understandings, we must fasten the charge upon their “ easy virtue.’ Why will they, by the sanction of their names, give currency to the most vapid trash that ever stained paper? It is dull, but it is borrowed dulness : it is cold, bloodless, and heartless; but it is cold, bloodless, and heartless at second hand; the merest scraps, by the most ignorant com- pilers, put together in the most tasteless manner, and impudently and cruelly fired at the poor from a sixty-pounder of mere names. The books were bad enough: the “ Useful,” without use; the “ Entertaining,” with- cut entertainment: the first not adding one idea to the mere lesson of the schoolboy; and the second, as cold and heartless as the “ Penny Ma- gazine,” and having an error in every page. How could it be otherwise? What writer, even of a third rate, — of any rate at all,—could stoop to such brazen quackery ? Those who have talents have feeling ; and what man with the least spark of that could aid in butchering, in cold blood, the intellect of all the humbler classes in England.. When the fetters of ordinary tyranny are on the limbs, the mind is free, and it “ bides its time,’ and the fetters are burst asunder ; but here is a mental bondage, under the prostituted name of “ the dif- fusion of knowledge,’ and rendered available by a muster of names which no ordinary man could resist. Had there been talent in the ease, such a monopoly would have been cruel: there being none, it is most monstrous. If they have any writers of name among them, why are they not heard of? Is not fame —honest fame, won from the public, — the fuel that feeds the lamp of genius ? Why then put the extinguisher of those names upon it? But they have it not ?— The books —those dumb witnesses —cannot lie. Sir Richard Phillips never ushered worse compilations into the world, under the names of the doctors that he had dubbed, even when he had the score of drudges locked in the garret at seven shillings and sixpence a week. The notion of the juggle, for it is a juggle, was purloined from Sir Richard; the modus operandi is his too; but they want even his tact. They should have taken him as their director-general ; and then, though the books would not have been good, they would have been much — very much—better than they are. The Society for the Diffusion of Useful and Entertainmg Knowledge, —where and when does it meet, and who attends it? Does Lord Brougham attend? Does Lord Althorp? Does Lord Ashley? Does Lord Dover? Not one of them. There are names on the covers of cer- tain tracts, and there is a brass plate on a door in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, and these are — Tue Socrery! Yet by these are the public deluded, and the poor cheated out of their pennies; and for what ? —for setting forth: as the fountains of knowledge and amusement those who, in their own persons, had formerly, for bad verse and worse prose, been “ Banish’d from the footstools of the gods.”’ A Single Gentleman. Such are the opinions of our reviewer, in many of which, any more than in his language, we do not concur. Nevertheless, the article having come to us through the hands of a highly esteemed friend, we have given it publicity. Our readers will judge for themselves. When the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge was first instituted, we hoped much from it, thinking that its object was to spread amongst the people the most useful knowledge; viz. that by which the working classes could soonest better their condition. It soon appeared, however, that the Society was ZA 344 Encyclopedia of Architecture. nothing more than a publishing monopoly, doing more effectually what had been before begun by Constable and by Phillips ; that is, lessening the price of all books. We differ from our reviewer respecting the Library of En- tertaining Knowledge, which we think has done much good, and more espe- cially the natural history volumes. Our objection to the Penny Magazine is, that it seems studiously to avoid the subject of bettering the moral and political condition of the people, contenting itself with simply amusing them. Were the good of the people the main object of the Penny Magazine there is a very clear and straight-forward road for effecting it ; but, if this road were once to be taken, the work would no longer be patronised by the Useful Knowledge Society. A penny magazine of knowledge, really suited to the people of this country, remains to be produced. In short, im this, as in all things else, those who want help must help themselves; anda magazine, for the good of the people, must emanate from the people. — Cond. Loudon, J. C., F.L.S. &c., with the assistance of J. Robertson, J. Perry, R. Varden, S. Thomson, J. Rowe, and other Architects: An Encyclo- peedia of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Architecture, &c. Part I., containing twelve lithographic plates, and upwards of 100 engravings on wood. 8vo. London, 1832. Price 10s. To be completed in 8 additional Parts, at 5s. each, so as to form one 8vo volume, similar in page and type to the Encyclopedias of Gardening and Agriculture. Price 2/. 10s. We insert the title of this work in our Catalogue, more for the sake of recording the period of its appearance, than for either entering mto the details of its contents, or recommending it to our readers. Having said. thus much, were this Encyclopedia entirely our own production, we should stop; when, however, it is considered that we are only one among several who are engaged init, we may be perhaps permitted to add, that, to the general reader, and to the lover of landscape scenery, it will be found by far the most interesting work of the kind that has ever been published; at least we and our coadjutors are ambitious to render it so. We have perfect confidence in the beauty of the designs furnished. by them, and we hope not to be behind»in the Nterary department. One great object that we have in view is, to instruct ladies in the study of architecture, and. especially in the improvement of cottages ; well knowing what they have effected for floriculture and landscape gardening, as noticed in our intro- duction to the work before us, They will find, from this work, that the study of architecture, as an art of design and taste, is as suitable to them as the study of floriculture or landscape-gardening ; and, being of a more definite nature than the latter, is much easier. To our American and Australian friends we hope to furnish a most valuable book ; and to all country architects, surveyors, builders, and land stewards, one which they will find as indispensable to them as the H’ncy- clopedia of Gardening and the Gardener’s Magazine are to the gardener who wishes to keep pace with the progress of improvement in his art. Such are the objects of our ambition: it is for the readers of the work to say how far we have succeeded in Part I., and to send us their criii- cisms, hints, and assistance in every form, with a view to Part II., and the succeeding Parts. “Kay, Jas. Phillips, M.D., Manchester: The Moral and Physical Condition of the Working Classes employed in the Cotton Manufacture in Man- chester. 8vo, pp. 74. London, Ridgway, 1832. This is a most interesting pamphlet ; and it has been duly appreciated by the most philosophical of newspaper editors, and, in truth, the master-spirit of the daily press, as far as fundamental principles are concerned, — the editor of the Morning Chronicle. We notice the work, to recommend it to those who have leisure to attend to such subjects; and because it has 1d Literary Notices. 345 delighted us to learn, from its perusal, that the evils now suffering by the manufacturing population of Manchester are not necessarily inherent in the manufacturing system adopted there, but are to be traced to the influx of population from Ireland, and to other causes, all of which admit of remedy. The whole of these may be included under injudicious legisla- tion, restricted commerce, and general ignorance. We are satisfied, with the enlightened and benevolent author, that the evils he has “ unreservedly exposed, so far from being the necessary consequences of the manufac- turing system, have a remote or accidental origin, and might, by judicious management, be entirely removed.” Art. V. Literary Notices. AN Introduction to Botany, by Professor Lindley, is in a forward state of preparation, and will shortly be presented to the public. An Introduction to the Knowledge of British Birds, for Young Persons, by R. A. Slaney, Esq. M.P., is in the press, and will soon be published. Art. VI. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of new Plants, and of old Plants of Interest, supplementary to the latest Editions of the “ Encyclopedia of Plants,’ and of the “ Hortus Britannicus.” Curtis’s Botanical Magazine ; each monthly Number containing eight plates 3s. 6d. coloured, 3s. plain. Edited by Dr. Hooker, King’s Professor of Botany in the University of Glasgow. Edwards's Botanical Register; each morithly Number containing eight plates ; 4s. coloured. Edited by John Lindley, Esq. F.R.S., Professor of Botany in the London University. Sweet's British Flower-Garden; each monthly Number containing four plates; 3s. coloured, 2s. 3d. plain. Edited by Robert Sweet, F.L.S., author of several botanical works. Loddiges’s Botanical Cabinet ; each monthly Number containing ten plates ; 5s. coloured, 2s. 6d. partly coloured. Edited by Messrs. Loddiges. Maunds Botanie Garden; each monthly Number containing one plate, bearing pictures of four plants; 1s. 6d. coloured and large paper, 1s. small paper. Edited by Benjamin Maund, Esq. The reader will find the few abbreviations used in the following extracts explained in p. 12. DicotyLEeDonous PLants. IIL. Ranunculdcee. Helléborus purpurascens W. & K. is figured in the British Flower-Garden for May, t. 142. It much resembles H. viridis I, but has a degree of pubescence on its radical leaves, which are pal- mately divided ; its sepals (calyx leaves) are roundish, and tinged with lurid red on their exterior surface, and along the inner margin of their tips. H.- viridis has its radical leaves perfectly smooth, and pedately divided; its sepals roundish, ovate, and perfectly green. H. purpurascens very probably exists in some gardens, confounded with JH. viridis. Mr. Sweet’s figure and these remarks may lead to their being distinguished. H. viridis, as usually seen in gardens, scarcely attains to more than half the stature which descriptions in books ascribe to it in its native chalk woods; and | this defection may result from omitting to accommodate the plant with the soil and shade congenial to its native habits. Mr. Sweet is of opinion that the best situation for H. purpurascens will be “a warm sheltered wood, where the dead leaves with which it might be covered in winter 346 Flovicultural and Botanical Notices, would protect it from the cold, and cause it to grow luxuriantly in spring, and to produce larger and better-coloured flowers.” XXIV. Malvacee. § Calyx double. 2014. HIBISCUS. 17926a Genévié Boj. Genéve’s **[7jspl 15 jn.jl Ro Mauritius ... C Lp Bot. mag. 3144 Of this superb Hibiscus the corolla is spreading, and 5 in. in diameter; the petals are of a white or pale rose colour, but are of a deep rosy lilac hue at their base; and this latter colour forms a conspicuous and admirable eye to each blossom. Dr. Hooker remarks: — “If this shrub be not already in our collections, as I suspect it is, through the influence of Mr. Telfair and the late Mr. Barclay, cultivators should haste to procure so great an ornament to the stove.” The specific name compliments M. Genéve, a zealous cultivator, who conducted Professor Bojer, who first named and described this species, to many trees of this Hibiscus in the forests con- tiguous to the Riviere Noire (Black river) in the Mauritius. (Bot. Mag., April.) Malvaceae. §} Calyx single. 2093. SINDA. 18069a rdsea Lh. & O. rosy-flwd ##[ljor 5 o Ro Brazil 1820 C lp Bot. mag. 3150 ** Petals rather large, showy, broadly ovate, nerved, reddish, somewhat inclining to purple, very concave and erect, so that, taken collectively, they almost form a globose corolla; stamens numerous; anthers. yellow, very compact ;”” therefore contrasting pleasingly with the rosy red petals. The leaves are on long petioles, are cordate, acuminate, nerved and serrated. This species “is evidently allied to the Sida globiflora of Bot. Mag. t. 2821, and is equally remarkable for the globose flowers and inflated calyx.” (Bot. Mag., April.) LVI. Myrtacee. Myrcia acris is figured in the Bot. Mag. for May, t. 3153., and there described to be a very elegant tree, of slow growth and considerable size, native of several of the West India islands, and called in Grenada bots d’Inde. The timber is very hard, red, and ponderous, capable of being polished and used for mill-cogs and other purposes, where much friction is required. The tree fills the woods with the fragrant smell of its leaves, nearly resembling that of cinnamon, but its bark has none of the warmth of that of cinnamon, though the berries much resemble cloves, both in form and flavour. The leaves of the young branches are from 3 to 4 in. long, of a very sweet aromatic smell, and, on account of their agreeable astringency, often used as sauce. ‘The flowers are small, white, with a slightly reddish tinge; the berries round, as large as peas, having an aromatic smell and taste, which render them agreeable fer culinary pur- poses: they contain seven or eight seeds. Myrcia acris is commonly called, in its places of growth, wild cinnamon, or wild clove tree ; and it is said to be the bayberry of Hughes. The foliage is neat and pleasing. LX. Proteacez. Wakea linearis is figured in the Bot. Reg. for April, t. 1489. H. linearis, “in this country, forms a very beautiful evergreen bush, remarkable for the glossiness and rich deep bright green of the leaves.” The white flowers are slightly fragrant, and produced in great abundance in axillary corymbs, and usually in August. LXV. Thymelée. Daphne Cnedrum is figured in the Bot. Cad. for April, t. 1800., where it is remarked :—“ Admirers of these charming plants [the daphnes] may easily enjoy their sweetness for several months, by giving some of them a little gentle stove heat, from January in succes- sion till the natural season ; for they will bear forcing extremely well.” LXXVII. Leguminose. § 2. Lotee. 2068. LO*TUS. arenarius Brot. sand * Oor 3 ap Y Teneriffe 1831. S sl Bot. reg. 1488 A showy-flowered annual species, presumed to be hardy, (Bot. Reg., April.) owe supplementary.to Ene. of Plants and Hort. Brit. _347 ~LXXVIL. Leguminise. § 5. Phaseslee. ~ 1985. LUPI*NUS. - 28169a Marshalli@nus Swt. Marshall’s « or5 jlo B Eng. hyb 1830? C sl Sw. fl. gar. 2.s. 139 Raised by C. Marshall (gardener at Mrs. Langtey’s, Southborough, Kingston, Surrey), from seeds of Z. lépidus. From the suffrutescence, habits, and foliage, Mr. Sweet judges L. tomentésus to be its male parent. Mr. Marshall states thus of the hybrid : —“ It continues in bloom till the sharp frost sets in, and it had thirty spikes in flower on it at one time, from 12 to 18 in. in length, although the plant which produced all these had been moved late in spring.’ Mr. Sweet remarks : —“ This plant, when dormant, produces a knot at the end of each shoot and joint, and up the stem, clothed with leaves ; and there can be no doubt that these would all soon make plants, if taken off, and planted in the ground; so that it wiil soon become plentiful.” [Lupinus polyphyllus, last autumn, exhibited, in Dennis’s Nursery, many of these leafy knots, on flower stems which had risen too late in the season to flower fully and freely.] ‘“ We have seen flowers of several other curious hybrids of this genus, sent to us at the same time as the present, and others in some other collections, particularly in that of Messrs. Allen and Rogers, nurserymen, King’s Road, Chelsea, and also at Battersea; in their nursery at the latter place. they are chiefly grown. Some of these are very beautiful, and might rea- dily be taken for real species, if their origin were not properly determined.” XCVI. Rhémnee. 3311. SOULA’NGIA. 5866a ribra Lindl. red-jflwd #\_Jor 3 d R_ C.G.H. 1827? C pl _ Bot. reg. 1498 Received, a few years since, from the Cape, by Messrs. Rollison of Tooting. It is a hardy green-house plant, extremely neat in its foliage, and rather pretty when its brick-red flowers, nestled in down, make their ap- pearance. Very near Soulangia [Phylica that was] thymifolia, from which it differs chiefly in its branches being more downy, and its flowers much larger and more woolly. (Bot. Reg., May.) CXXXVI. Sarraceniézx. 1555. SARRACESNTA. minor Nut. smaller ye AJ cu 2mrmy P.G. Carolina 1829. D. bog Sw.fl.gar. Zs. 138, A distinct and pleasing species of this peculiar and most interesting genus ; “ but it will be most likely a long time before it will be for sale in this country, except some person go to Carolina or Georgia [the native countries of the species] and send home a quantity of it.” (Flower-Gar- den, April.) CLVI. Polygonee. 1210, POLY’GONUM. +10274 adpréssum & Br. appressed-sfyled $ \_| cu 60 my.au. W N.Holl. 1822. L.1.p Bot. mag. 3145 This plant has been found in Van Diemen’s Land, as well as in New Holland; but, in the former country, at present only about Macquarie’s Harbour, and is by the colonists called Macquarie’s Harbour grape; but, although its axillary racemes of fruit at first sight resemble grapes, and although the stems of the plant ramble like those of a vine, and even to the extent of 60 ft. in a single season, the likeness does not hold farther. The seed of all the polygonums, which is a small hard nut, is known to be wholesome (as buckwheat ) ; but in P. adpréssum, the seed is invested with the enlarged and fleshy segments of the calyx; which gives to each fruit the appearance of a berry: some acidity in these fruits renders them avail- able in tarts. About Macquarie’s Harbour, the fruits of this plant are ripe in December and January. (Bot. Mag., April.) ; CLXIX. Sapotee. Mimusops dissécta Brown is figured in the Bot. Mag. for May, t.3157. The peduncled white pink-tinted monopetalous corolla is cut into eighteen segments ; these are arranged in a double series, and have suggested the specific name. Fruit, a large oval, or nearly ob- 348 Flovicultural and Botanical Notices, ovate, by abortion one-seeded, at first green, at length brownish-purple, berry nearly of the figure and size of a muscle plum. The leaves are elliptical-ovate, about the size of those of the apple tree, penninerved, dark green above, and of a.silvery grey beneath, and on petioles about an inch long. The cultivation of this plant, which is considered to be a small tree, is, as its fruit is esculent, too much neglected in our colo- nies. A‘chras dissécta of Forster is presumed to be identical with Mimu- sops dissécta of Brown; and from A‘chras dissécta an unctuous fluid is said to exude: the fruit is of an agreeable acid, and, on account of it, the plant is extensively cultivated in China, Manilla, and Malabar. The leaves, pounded, and mixed with the roots of Curcuma (turmeric), and with ginger, are used as poultices for tumours. (Bot. Mag., May ) CLXX. Ervicea. § Vere. ; * 1173. ERICCA. iii, undulata B.C. waved-tubed #\_Jor 1? jn. Ro. C.G.H. 18272 C s.p Bot. cab, 1792 “ This was raised, a few years since, by Mr. Rollison: it grows low and bushy. The waving outline of the flower gives it the appearance rather of something blighted or imperfect ; but this seems constantly to prevail,” and the specific name undulata is expressive of this waved formation. (Bot. Cab., April.) Ericee. § Rhodoracee. — The hybrid Azaleas at Highclere. Of these we have made mention (Vol. VII. p. 62. 135. and 471.). Mr. Sweet, in his British Flower-Garden for April, t. 137., figures four of these, and includes them all under one specific epithet, namely, ornatum ; and, as Mr. Sweet deems the genus Azalea not botanically distinguishable from the genus Rhododéndron, they are called Rhododéndron ornatum. The main sub- ject of the plate is #. ornatum 1 speciosum ; and to this are added a flower of R. ornatum 2 incarnatum, one of R. ornatum 3 luteum, and one of R. ornatum 4 76seum. Each kind is very handsome, and therefore desirable, especially the showy variety . ornatum specidsum.. The corymbs of this are many-flowered, and the corollas are mainly of a deep orange red colour. The colour of the other varieties is indicated in.the names applied to them. The specimens of all these kinds were sent to Mr. Sweet in the latter end of May, 1830. The following is the history of them, supplied by J. R. Gowen, Esq., to Mr. Sweet : —“ The seeds were raised by Lord Caernar- von’s gardener, from Azalea viscosa var. rubéscens, fertilised by A. péntica, under Mr. Gowen’s own inspection. The gardener is very clever at raising these seedlings; but they have always been under Mr. Gowen’s observation till the present time. There are also many of the same age from A. coc- cinea by the same male parent [A. pontica]; and it is difficult to say which sport the most, and produce the most brilliant colours. I am inclined to think that A. calendulacea would be a better plant to supply pollen than A. péntica, being a later flowerer, more disposed to sport, and more ele- gant in its habit; but its progeny would not possess that delightful fra- grance which belongs to the crop from A. pontica, and which is very fine in some of the varieties which are now [latter end of May, 1830] flowering here. “ T should observe, that when the foliage of the seedling follows closely that of the male parent, A. péntica, the flowers also approximate to the male type; on the other hand, when the foliage follows the female, so do the flowers. I think there is about an equal proportion preserved in the seedlings.” (iower-Garden, April.) CLXXI. Hpacridee. Lissanthe sapida is figured in the Bot. Mag. for April, t. 3147. It has racemes of pendulous greenish white tubular corol- las, which are succeeded by red globose drupes as large as a black currant, and which have something of the consistency and taste of the Siberian crab. CLXXXVI. Composite. A’ster coridifolius, Coris-leaved starwort, is figured in the Bot. Reg. for April, t. 1487; where Professor Lindley states, supplementary to Line. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 349 that, until by comparison with an authentic specimen he had identified it with the A. coridifolius of Michaux, he had deemed it a distinct and unde- scribed species, and had called it A. intricatus; “ under which name a few plants have been distributed from the Horticultural Society’s garden, the only collection, as far as we are aware, in which it exists.” The stems of this perennial species attain the height of 3 ft.; and the pale flesh-coloured flowers, not larger than a sixpence, are produced in Oc- tober. From America, and presumed to be from the vicinity of New York. A’ster cyaneus Hoffman is figured in the Bot. Reg. for May, t. 1495., and the followmg synonymes are referred to it: — A. Novi Bélgii 6 glaicus Aiton, glaicus and cyaneus of Nees, bupleurdides of the Montpelier Gar- den, and mutabilis of the Berlin Garden. On this identification it is remarked, “ There can be no doubt that these synonymes are certain ones: if we have not increased the list, it is because, although we can scarcely doubt that several more reputed species are also reducible hither, we have not at present the same absolute certainty in regard to them. In the gardens, this (A’ster cyaneus) is sometimes called A. phlogifolius, A. mutabilis, and even A. concolor; while Pursh has evidently confounded it with A. Novee A’nelize, a totally different species.” The above remarks are quoted in exemplification of the bewildering confusion in which the asters are involved, which will be information to those not already aware of the fact ; while those who are, will rejoice to observe that they are receiving Professor Lindley’s Ariadne-like attention. CCXIV. Acanthacee. 61. ERA’NTHEMUM. fecindum Lindi. ever-blowing # [Jor Ijallsea Li Brazil 1829? C. pI Bot. reg. 149% _ Few species of Eranthemum deserve the title of love-flower, which Eranthemum signifies, better than this. It possesses an unusual disposition to form flower-buds instead of leaf-buds. If its growth be checked by a dry atmosphere, repotting, or exposure to sudden cold, it is directly thrown so abundantly into flower, that young plants will often commit a sort of vege- table suicide, and kill themselves by their excessive fecundity. In the heat of the stove, and a good deal of atmospheric moisture, it increases readily by cuttings; and if encouraged to form leaf-buds by being maintained in a steady and uniform rate of growth, it forms a neat little bush; and the ends of all its branches are covered by short spikes of lilac-coloured blos- soms, which are displayed almost all the year round. (Bot. Reg., May.) CCXXI. Labidie. Scutellaria lupulina LZ. is figured in the Bot. Reg. for May, t. 1493 , as a variety of S. alpina; Mr. Bentham conceiving S. lu- pulina not specifically distinct from S. alpina. To the remarks on this point is appended an enumeration of all the species of Scutellaria hitherto known, and these are 58 in number: it will furnish useful clues to the student of scutellarias. Melittis Melissophyllum Z. is figured in Maund’s Botanic Garden for May, t.356., where these remarks, besides others, are expressed concerning, it: — “ The whole plant, in a fresh state, has not a peculiarly agreeable smell, as its odour approaches that of some species of A’nthemis ; in its dry state, however, it becomes pleasantly odoriterous, and this quality it is said to retain for many years.” MonocotyLeponous PLAnNTs. CCXLVII. Asphodelee. 1053. ORNITHO’/GALUM. bifdlium B.C. two-leaved ¥% .Ajcu 2au W Chile 1831. O s.1 Bot. cab. 1802 “ The flowers are of a delicate white. We have kept it in a green-house,. but it will probably bear the winter in a sheltered ‘place out of doors.” ( Bot. Cab., May, 1832.) 350 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, Scilla pree‘eox W, is figured in the Flower-Garden for May, t. 141., from the rich collection of hardy bulbs pessessed by A. H. Haworth, Esq., who received a bulb of the Scilla pra‘cox, about four years ago, from the bo- tanic garden at Bury St. Edmunds, under the name of Scilla bifolia cigan- tea; a name by which the plant has been sent out from that garden to the garden of the London Horticultural Society and to other places. It is every way larger than Scilla bifolia czerulea itself; and this is the readiest distinction between them. It probably exists in other gardens, confounded with Scilla bifolia czrtlea, as it did in the Bury St. Edmunds one, until observed by the very discriminating eye of one of the supporters of that garden, the Rev. George Reading Leathes. CCXLVII. Asphodelee. *106¢a CAM A’SSTA Lindl. (Quamash or Camass, native name in N.W. America.) 6.1. Asphodélee. 1 esculenta Lind, esculent § A or 13jl D.P Columbia 1827. O p_ Bot. reg. 1486 Professor Lindley quotes from Pursh as fellows :—“ This plant is called quamash by the native Indians; and the bulbs are carefully collected by them, and baked between hot stones, when they assume the appearance of baked pears, and are of an agreeable taste. They form a great part, of their winter stores.” This fact it has been usual to attach to the Scilla’ esculénta, well figured in the Botanical Magazine, t. 1574.; but Professor Lindley remarks, that the Camassia esculénta “is the real quamass or camass root of the North-west American Indians, we know upon the authority of Mr. Douglas, who found it in the greatest profusion on alluvial, grassy, and partly overflowed soils on the Columbia, in 1825. Professor Lindley thus contrasts Scilla esculénta and Camdssia esculénta: — “In Scilla esculénta, the leaves are glaucous ; the flowers pale blue, and much smaller ; the segments have a uniform direction and expansion ; the. stamens are shorter, and spread equally round the pistillum, which is straight. In Camdssia esculénta, the leaves are bright green; the flowers deep purple; five of the segments have a direction upwards, while the sixth 1s bent down; the stamens are ascending, and the style is declinate. No doubt, therefore, can exist of their specific, or even of their generic, difference.” The flowers of this very beautiful plant are almost 2in. in diameter, and were produced, for the first time in Britain, in July, 1831, in the Horticultural Society’s garden. Professor Lindley “ scarcely remembers to have seen a more strikingly handsome bulbous plant : no art can do justice to the rich colour of the flower, which, although of the most intense purple, yet is so relieved by the satiny sparkling lustre of the cuticle, as to have quite a light and elegant effect. It has been hitherto cultivated in a peat border, under a north wall, where it grows freely, proving perfectly hardy; a few seeds were produced, and it is probable that when the bulbs are stronger [they are now about the size of a filbert], it will increase readily by seeds. Mr. Douglas also met with a white variety, or rather perhaps species, of which specimens are in his herba- rium.” (Bot. Reg., April.) CCXXXVII. Amaryliidez. 3533. COBU/RGTA. 28152a fulva Herd. tawny-flwd ¥% .Ajor 1f. Taw S. Amer. 1829? O1.r.m. Bot. reg. 1497 A beautiful species, nearly allied to the splendid C. incarnata of Sweet’s Hlower-Garden. The bulbs of this genus are hardy green-house plants ; they may be kept dry in the winter, and planted out in the spring; but they will not endure the winter out of doors, except near the wall of a stove. They produce an abundance of offsets, which 1s probably the cause of their rarely flowering with us. Perhaps a strong and richly manured loam would promote their flowering.” (Herbert in Bot. Reg., May.) * Sprekelka Heister formosissima Herbert, Amaryllis formosissima DL. “ Heister first constituted this plant into a genus, and named it Sprekélia,, supplementary to. Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 351 in honour of Baron M. de Sprekelsen, sometime secretary to the republic of Hamburgh, and a great promoter of botany.” Figured to exhibit two flowers on one scape, a sport of rare occurrence. Besides the present in- stance figured from Dennis’s Nursery, Dillenius has recorded one, Mr. Herbert two, and Martyn’s Miller’s Dictionary alludes to others. (2lower- Garden, May.) ; CCXXXIX. Iridee. 128. GLADIOLUS. 98893 1173a cochleatus Sw#. spoon-?ipped § ,Ajor 14 mr W.r C.G.H. 1829. O s.p.1 Sw.fl.gar.2.s,140 A species nearer G. débilis Pot. Mag., 2585., than any others; the flowers of G. cochleatus, as well as of G. débilis, are of a snowy white, except the coloured marks on some of the segments of the perianth (petals in popular language). In these coloured marks, red predominates, and they give the flowers, which are not small, and produced two on a stem in the specimens figured, an eyed appearance. Cochleatus is expressive of a spoon-like form, exhibited by the lower segment of the perianth (petal); and. G. cochleatus is published from the collection ef H. B. Page, Botanic Garden, Southampton, who received the bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope more than two years ago. (I/ower-Garden, April.) : CCXLIX. Snmilacee. 2783. SMISLAX., _ §i. QQ il sagittefdlia B.C. arrow-lvd #\_jor Idaut. W. China 1820? D Ip Bot.cab. 1799 “ The leaves are evergreen, of pleasing ferm and colour, and the plant is seldom more than a foot in height.” (Bot. Cab., April.) CCXL. Orchidee. § Vandeze. 2537. MAXILLA*‘RIA. : picta Hook. painted-fwwd € (Al) or 3 a O spot. P Organ Mtns. 1830? D p.r.w Bot. mag. 315¢ This is another of the many new orchideous plants received by Mrs. Arnold Harrison, from her brother in Brazil, where it was gathered in that spot, se fertile in vegetables of this family, the Organ Mountains. It eminently deserves a place in every collection, from the size and beauty of its blossoms. These are borne ene on a scape, and the segments of the perianth (or petals) are all of them of arich and deep orange colour within, spotted with purple; externally almost white, with spots and blotches of deep purple. (Bot. Mag., May.) ’ 2565. AK/RIDES. cornitum Rox. horn-fiwd & (A) fra 1jl.au. F E Indies 1820. D p.r.w. Bot. reg. 1485 Described as a most lovely plant, which, although recently imported by Dr. Wallich, had blossomed m the Kew collection as early as 1822. In its native localities it grows upon trees, and blossoms in June. In the Calcutta Botanic Garden, where it is cultivated successfully, it has gained the name of the Jamaica pomatum plant, from the resemblance of the rich fragrance of its flowers to that of the unguent so called. Professor Lindley thinks it rather comparable to the odour of the blossoms of the tuberose, Polianthes tuberdsa. The part of the flower which is horn- shaped is the labellum; this is three-lobed, with the margins of the central lobe, which is rather long, met together, so as to produce a conical spur, that is incurved, and green at its tip. The species “ is certainly the most interesting of its tribe that has yet been introduced, whether we consider the great mass of its blossoms [these form a pendulous raceme 5in. in length], their curious form, or delicate colour, or long duration, or delicious perfume. It flourishes in a very damp hot-house, planted in moss, in a pot suspended from the rafters; but, as it branches rather unwillingly, it is slow of propagation.” (Bot. Reg., April.) Orchidee. § Epidéndree. 2558a. PHA‘GUS. 2760 maculatus B.C. spotted-ud «Wor 2jajn Y Nepal 1893; D pr.w Bot. cab, 1803 Bletia Woodférdia Hort. Brit, No, 22760, — 352 New or interesting Plants. Published by Dr. Hooker, in the Bot. Mag.,as a native of Trinidad; but Professor Lindley states it to be from Nepal. Few orchideous plants are more attractive than this. The leaves are scattered over with golden spots; the flowers are eminently beautiful. (ot. Cab., May, 1832.) 2554. EP1IDE’NDRUM. variegatum Héok. var.lud.&fld & [ZX] or 1ja Ysh g.spot P Rio Jan. 1830. D p.r.w Bot.mag. 3151 Two or three leaves terminate each pseudo-bulb: these leaves are 8 to 10in. long, strap-shaped, obtuse, striated, of a yellow green dashed with deeper spots ; so that they have a variegated appearance. The raceme consists of eight or ten flowers. The perianth has six spreading, somewhat leathery, segments, of a yellowish green colour, yellower towards their tips which are obtuse, and their upper or inner side 1s sprinkled almost all over with blackish purple spots. Dr. Hooker says of Epidéndrum variegatum, “It is extremely unlike any other species of the genus with which I am acquainted, and the flowers are very beautiful. The leaves, too, being spotted with a darker colour, have a remarkable appearance.” (Jot. iMag., May.) Seasonable Hints on Floriculture. — By the first day of June the night frosts of spring-may be fairly considered as past ; and, consequently, imme- diately after this date, preparation may be made for transplanting into vacancies, in the compartments of the hardy flower-garden, whatever superfluous duplicates or multiplicates of ornamental plants the green- house or the hot-house may contain. As eligible plants for out-door summer decoration large plants of the fuchsias may be named, not forget- ting the new species Fucisia bacillaris, described p. 225., as soon as it can be obtained. Salvia spléndens, falgens, involucrata, Graham’, and even formdsa, are particularly splendid; and S. falgens, planted in rich light soil, at the base of a warm-aspected wall, and trained over the face of that wall, forms, in autumn, an especially splendid object ; the numerous spikes of scarlet flowers, produced at the extremity of its branches, having the effect of marking the plant’s outline with a gorgeous wreath of scarlet. Petunia nyctaginifidra, whose large white flowers are very fragrant by night, treated in the same way, is surprisingly improved, and rendered a very ornamental subject. (See Mr. Sweet’s account of the result of this treatment in Vol. If. p.297.) Pelargoniums may be copiously planted out; and the trailing-stemmed ivy-leaved kinds, trained over the surface of little beds set apart for them, and pegged into the soil at their joints, cover the earth with their glossy leaves charmingly, and flower beautifully and abundantly in autumn. Maurandya Barclay@za and M. semperflorens are well known summer climbers of great elegance and beauty; and although there is a coarseness of aspect in that free-srowing treely increasing novelty, Lophospérmum erubéscens, it is a climber whose copious wreaths of rosy blossoms excel in beauty and ornamental effect many other plants the habit of which is more delicate. (See a more detailed notice of it in Vol. VII. p. 201.) Besides these, numerous house plants, which it is super- fluous to enumerate, may be made conducive to the floral decoration of the hardy garden; and while thinking of the beauty of the blossoms of plants, it will be well not to forget the beauties of foliage also. Ficus elastica is a beautiful object in its leaves during summer and autumn, when plunged over the rim of its pot in the soil of a sunny border; so also are the ex- quisitely leaved New Holland acacias, and numerous other plants. In the plants named above for the beauty of their blossoms Bouvardia triphylla should really have been mentioned, and our readers referred to the excel- lent article by Mr. Mearnsin Vol. VII. p. 48., fora mode of cultivating this beautiful plant in the summer beds and borders most successfully, and also for amode of so propagating it, as to have plants of it in abundance.-—J. D. 3Bo MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE. Art. I. General Notices. HorTICULTURAL Syringes. — The admirable improvement made in this instrument, by Mr. Reid (Encyc. of Gard., 2d edit., § 1419.), the origin of which, we have been informed, was the circumstance of a cannon ball hay- ing accidentally served the purpose of a valve in a ship’s pump, has, as might be expected, led to subsequent improvements. One of these, by Mr. Macdougall, we have described in detail, Vol. VI. p. 305.: another, 59 @ LE J by Messrs. Warner, is figured and described in the Register of Arts, part xxxy. p. 14, The general form (fig. 59.) is the same as that of Mr. Macdougall’s but, instead of the valve employed by the latter, the rose head (jig. 60.) is in itself a valve, “‘ which,” says the editor of the Register, “ renders the apparatus infinitely simpler, more durable, and not so likely to get out of order.” The price by retail, we believe, is 27s. We have - tried one of Warner’s syringes against one of Macdougall’s and one of Reid’s, and we have con- versed with those who have had some experience with them. The result is, that both Reid’s and Warner’s are, from the nature of their con- struction, more liable to draw in such extraneous matters as may be in the water; and consequently the rose is more liable to become choked up in . the action of syringing. Now, Macdougall’s valve is guarded by a wire crating (Vol. VL. fig. 58. c and g), expressly for the purpose of excluding im- purities ; we are therefore of opinion that it must necessarily be preferable, and we are certain that the workmanship is better at least than Warner’s. A still more perfect syringe than any that has yet appeared has just been invented by Mr. Siebe, late of Holborn, but now of Denmark Street, Soho, whose rotatory garden engine and water cock we have before commended in this Magazine ( Vol. VII. p. 84.) ; and whose rotatory pump, one of the very best of his inventions, we have described and figured in Vou. VIII.— No. 38. AA 354: General Notices. our Encyc. of Cottage Architecture (p. 16., figs. 10. and 11.). Mr. Siebe’s syringe, which he denominates Siebe’s Universal Garden Syringe ( fig. 61.), consists of only one appa- 61 ratus, which can instantly, by turning a pin, be applied so as to serve the purpose of four different caps. The inverted syringe of Mr. Macdougall is imitated by a universal joint (at @),by which means the cap or head (4) may be turned in any direction, and to any angle (c). The pin by which the alterations in the rose head are effected works in a groove (d) in the face of the rose; and by it, a very fine shower, a coarse shower, or a single jet from one opening (e), may be effected at pleasure. The valve, by which the water is admitted to the syringe, is in the side of the rose (f). We have seen one of these syringes ; and it is certainly an elegant instrument, most accurately fitted together; and, from a few minutes’ trial, it appeared to work admirably. It will form an excellent instrument for the amateur gardener, male or female. The price is only two guineas, and the demand is so great that it can hardly be supplied. — Cond. A detached Fumigator ( fig. 62. a), which will fit any pair of common 62 bellows (6), is manufactured by Messrs. Warner, and sold to the trade at a very moderate rate. A portable Mangle has lately been invented by Mr. Saul or Lancaster, which, it is expected, will not cost more than 5/.; another portable mangle has lately been exhibited to the Society of Arts, at Edinburgh, the inven- tion of Mr. Catleugh, a journeyman millwright, at Haddington. Both these machines are substantial, take up very little space, and are well suited to small families. The Family Washing- Machine has recently undergone an important im- Oe by the addition of rollers for the purpose of wringing. We hhave seen one of these machines at Weir’s manufactory, Oxford Street ; and we must say that it afforded us sincere pleasure, to see an obvious and easy medium by which the labour of women, in washing, may be very greatly reduced. A Marine Railway, for the purpose of conveying vessels overland, has been projected by Henry Fairbairn, in the United Service Journal for May, 1832, p: 70. The vessels are to be raised from the sea by machinery, placed in slips, and dragged along the railway by locomotive steam-engines. The plan is contemplated not only with reference to Britain, but to every other country in Europe. The same author proposes, in this paper, and in one in the preceding number of the same journal, to connect Ireland with Scotland, by means of a bank between Portpatrick and Donaghadee ; and England with France, by means of a chain bridge, causeway, or tunnel, from Dover to Calais. Over all the lines of marie railways he proposes to General Notices. - 355 form suspension railways, resting upon arches, in the manner of our friend Mr. Dick’s (Vol. VI. p.477.), for the conveyance of passengers, mails, and merchandise. We notice this scheme chiefly for the sake of exciting new ideas; and because it is always safer to introduce in our work what will tend to expand the mind, rather than to contract it. We perfectly agree with-Mr. Fairbairn, that the world has yet obtained only a glimpse of the “ revolutionary wonders ”’ of the railway system, and that it will at no distant period effect important changes in every nation on the globe. — Cond. Hybrid Poppies (Papaver nudicaile alpinum).—A strong plant of Pa- paver alpinum grew in the open border in the Edinburgh Botanic Garden last year. In the same spot this spring (1831), three very strong plants arose, with leaves precisely similar, though, perhaps, a little less finely divided. The flowers, on expansion, however, were found not white, as in Papaver alpinum, but deep and bright yellow, with a greenish tinge in the heart. For several years, many plants of P. nudicatle have blossomed freely in the open borders. The plant of Papaver alpinum had been im- pregnated by these, had died, and been succeeded by its hybrid progeny. The three planis are precisely similar; the flowers are as large as in P, nu- dicatle, and resemble that species in colour; the leaves, as I have said above, are almost exactly those of P. alpinum. A remarkable monstrosity appears this year among some of the plants of Papaver nudicaile. The flowers in some are semidouble; but in others, a few of the outer stamens only remain, the filaments in general assuming the form of fragments of a capsule, having hairs on their outer and ovules in their inner surface; the anthers are wanting, and their place is supplied by fragments of stigmata. (Dr. Graham, in Edin, New Phil. Journ., June, 1831, p. 192.) Seedlings of Papaver bracteatum have been raised, from seeds produced in an English garden, whose petals had lost much of the usual crimson of P. bracteatum, and acquired nearly the scarlet of those of P. orientale. A large black spot occurs in the base of the petals of P. bracteatum and P. orientale ; but, of the latter species, a yariety exists in some gardens, the petals of which are spotless. This spotlessness is, however, possibly not constant. —-J. D. The Thistle of Scotland. — Sir, The late Rev. Mr. Lambert, the senior fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, during a tour in Scotland, amused himself by endeavouring to ascertain what particular species of thistle was the prototype of the national emblem. He found the inhabitants not at all agreed on this point; and that the thistle of the seal of the Edinburgh Bo- tanic Garden, that of the national insignia, and that of the Order of the Thistle, were apparently all different thistles ; while such botanists as Mr. Lambert had opportunities of consulting on the subject could furnish no satisfactory historical clue respecting the species. The curiosity of Mr. Lambert hereupon began to subside, when it was once more excited by a bill from a silversmith, sent to his lodgings with some articles he had ordered, on the head of which bill a thistle, unlike the other thistles he had seen, was engraved as an ornament. On paying his bill, he remarked to the silversmith the dissimilarity of his thistle to those he had seen adopted in other places. The silversmith professed himself regardless of what others had adopted, maintaining that his (the Cnicus acatilis) was the true Scottish thistle ; and that it was proved to beso by the following nar- rative: —“ At the time,” said the silversmith, “ that the Danes invaded Scotland, it was not the practice to commence an attack by night; but of this clandestine mode the Danes on one occasion resolved to avail them- selves; and, to insure success, went barefoot. By this means they had approached unperceived near to the Scottish camp, when a Dane, having his naked feet pricked by a thistle which he trod upon, instinctively uttered AA 2 356 Foreign Notices : — France. an ejaculation ; and thus sounded an alarm to the Scottish soldiers, who instantly rose as one man, and slew the Danes with a great slaughter : and in commemoration of this signal service of Cnicus acatlis, it was adopted into our national insignia.” The above account was communicated to me by W. C. Oldham, Esq., the nephew of Mr. Lambert. Soon after the king’s visit to Scotland, some seeds were presented to the botanic garden at Bury St. Edmunds by a relation of the Bishop of London, who received them as seeds of the identical thistle, or kind of thistle, carried in the processions that attended on His Majesty in Scotland: these developed Onopordum Acénthium. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — John Denson. Botanic Garden, Bury St. Edmunds, Nov. 1. 1829. When Potatoes are exposed in the time of Frost, the only precaution ne- cessary is, to retain them in a perfectly dark place after the thaw. In America, where they are sometimes frozen as hard as stones, they rot if thawed in open day; but, if thawed in darkness, they do not rot, and lose very little of their natural flavour and properties. (Hobart Town Courier, June 11. 1831.) Notable discovery! Dear brother-gardeners, henceforth toil not to collect and pit your potatoes for the winter; but, allowing them to re- main in the rows where they have grown, treat them with a thin coat of mould, to keep out the light ; heed not the frost, and dig out potatoes for use “ fresh and fresh,” as your wants require, and thaws permit.—J. D. Art. II. Foreign Notices. FRANCE. TuE vegetable Productions of the Neighbourhood of Bagnolles Wells, and of the whole of the Department of P Orne, are numerous and excellent, in- cluding every kind of grain, and an immense proportion of sarrasin (buck wheat ), flax, and hemp, all of which latter are cultivated with great care ; and in the month of May, with a spring much forwarder than in England, were remarkably free from weeds. Considerable quantities of potatoes are planted ; but, in point both of culture and productiveness, they are gene- rally not equal to those grown in this country; their quality is also infe- rior, though the inhabitants have every requisite but knowledge and expe- rience to produce potatoes in the highest perfection. The country abounds in all sorts of leguminous plants ; and, in particular, with haricots (kidney- beans), and other excellent garden beans, which are brought to table dressed in a variety of ways, and are eaten both separately and as accompaniments to various meats. Most of these are subjects also of extensive field cul- ture. The department is said to contain 643,528 hectares of land (more than 1,500,000 English acres), and 423,500 inhabitants. Butnotwithstand- ing their numbers (and the general disappointment expressed that the revolution of July had not been followed up with that reduction of tax- ation which it ought to have been), apart from a very few habitual beggars to be met with in some of the towns, there is no appearance of abject po- verty any where. The country is fully enclosed; and small properties, in the hands of the owners, abound every where, and exhibit symptoms of comfort and independence, though they do not manifest such signs of improvement and prosperity as the major part of those observed in the department of La Sarthe. The neatly cultivated cottage gardens of the neighbourhoods of Le Mans and Alencon are wanting; but most of the poorest-looking houses have their patches of flax and their half dozen of apple and pear trees. There are neither tithes, taxes, nor poor rates to pay ; and the style of livymg even amongst farmers of 150 or 200 acres being Foreign Notices : — France. 357 simple and unexpensive, there is very little distress experienced by any one, and consequently very few crimes committed. The English style of gar- dening has made less progress in a district of country in many respects analogous to our own, than might perhaps have been expected, especially when its former connection with England, and the constant imtercourse which then must have taken place, is considered. The raised terraces and straight walks, with other formalities now commonly discarded in England, are generally retained about the French chateaus. There is a forest resi- dence of Marshal Grouchy, situated in the Ardennes Forest, in a more natural style; and M. de Conterne obligingly showed us walks in his magnificent woods; and over and along the beautiful stream running through them, which would do no discredit to the taste of an English land- scape-gardener. Wherever it can be consistently indulged, this style seems to be greatly on the increase in different parts of France; and, besides various other instances in addition to those already mentioned in your Magazine, the garden of the Minimes at Tours, and the grounds of Les Ornes, on the banks of the river Vienne, the seat of M. d’Argenson, in Poitu, are favourable specimens. From Bagnolles to Domfront, and thence by Condé to Falaise, the country is highly interesting. This latter place, we were repeatedly told, with something more of complacency than we heard it, was the birthplace of William the Conqueror. Its immediate vicinity is picturesque and beautiful; and before reaching Domfront (as between Falaise and Caen), I found the most magnificent crops of wheat, growing in a woodcock-coloured loam, on a broken oolitic subsoil, that I ever remember to have seen. From Caen (one quarter, and some of the outskirts of which city are very handsome) all the way to Honfleur the country is delightful, with very little exception ; it is every where enclosed, and though not highly is yet tolerably well cultivated. In the hedges by the roadside, acacias in great numbers exhibited their delicately white pendulous blos- soms, and diffused their fragrance in great profusion. In the neighbourhood of Honfleur (which is situated nearly opposite to Havre at the mouth of the Seine, where it is seven or eight miles broad) there are many gardens im the English style, partaking largely of the superiority of the best Eng- lish cultivation; but this district is chiefly famed for the production of melons, superior sorts of which are cultivated on a large scale in enclosures of the size of small fields, for the supply of Paris, to which city they are sent in vast quantities. Great part of the department of L’Orne, and the whole of Calvados, of which Caen is the chief place, are celebrated for their apples and pears ; and, in favourable seasons, immense quantities of cider and perry are made, which, as in Herefordshire and Devonshire, con- stitute a great proportion of the drink of the country, besides supplying the neighbouring departments with the superior kinds. The vegetable produc- tions of Calvados are similar to those of L’Orne, with the addition of tur- nips, mangold wurzel, &c., all of which might be cultivated to advantage in the latter department. Landed property is there also much divided; the country looks cheerful, and the people want nothing to enable them to develope, in common with the rest of France, the immense resources of their country, but the natural unsophisticated operation of the genuine principles of the Revolution, through the medium of a free and cheap go- vernment, in the extension of education, the total abolition of remaining monopolies, the unrestrained freedom of personal intercourse, and a really free press. — John H. Moggridge. Woodfield, Dec. 1831. Destruction of the Apple Bug, and of Lichens on Fruit Trees, by Fire.— Sir, The Royal Society of Agriculture at Caen, in Normandy, proposed a prize for an essay on the best mode of destroying the “ Puceron lanigere.”’ * _* A new genus has been established, called Myzéxylus; from myzo, to suck, and wvylon, wood. AA 3 358 Foreign Notices : — Germany. The Society published the memoir sent in by M. Blot, and the following is an extract: — “ Pass rapidly, and repeatedly, over those parts of the apple trees attacked by the insects, wisps of burning rye straw. The trees suffer no injury, and the insects are instantly destroyed, before the epidermis of the tree is even heated. The insect is protected by a cottony down, of a very inflammable nature, and its body is covered by a kind of powder which is consumed by the fire the moment it touches it; the time for using this method is the end of autumn, winter, and, above all, spring. ~ It is seldom necessary to repeat the operation, as the fire penetrates the galls, and destroys the eggs of the insect which are lodged within them. Destroying Lichens by Fire. A custom prevails in Normandy, about Christmas time, for children to go about with torches of rye straw (pro- vincially termed coulines), for the purpose of burning the lichens, mosses, and dead leaves on the apple trees. — A Reader of the Gardener's Magazine at Caen. March 3. 1832. GERMANY. Stutigardt, Feb. 16. 1832.— Sir, I have finished a plan for a new kitchen-garden here, and shall soon send you a copy of it. I received, some time since, three cases of pine-apple plants, and know only by the handwriting of the names in two of the cases, to whom I am indebted for the plants contained in those cases, not having received any letter, either with them or by post. The third case has the plants num- bered, but not named; and as I neither found any letter in the case, nor have received one by post, [am at a loss to whom I ought to address a letter of thanks, to request, at the same time, a list of the names. Perhaps you will make known my gratitude to the givers of these plants through your Magazine, and add, that Ishould much wish to hear from the parties, either by letter or parcel, directed to the care of Mr. Nebringer, at Messrs. Charles Burket and Co., 147. Fenchurch Street, London. All my pie plants are looking remarkably well, and I hope to get, in the course of the summer, as large fruit as is generally grown in England. M. Salucci is very anxious to know when you intend publishing his designs for the palace of Rosenstein, and I am very curious to see your engraving of the park. There is a wonderful change for the better in this country since I left it. Iam, Sir, yours, &c.— W. Hertz. M. Salucci’s plans are engraved, and proofs will be sent him shortly. —~ Cond. Munich, March 1.— We have had a remarkably mild autumn, and, as usual, when that is the case, every thing is late. Our hot-water system of heating has succeeded perfectly, and there is some intention of applying it in our hospitals, and other public buildings; but the country is too much agitated for improvements of this description. The spring of our long- frozen country 1s about to commence, and we shall soon have the breaking up of the rivers, and a general débacle. — R. B. S. Preservation of Seeds. — At a meeting of the Horticultural Society of Berlin, a discussion took place respecting the proper method of preserving seeds. It was suggested that they should be enclosed ma vacuum. But all the practical men who were present objected, on the ground that it would tend to dry the seeds more quickly. They considered the influence, at least partial, of the air essential for the maintaining of the proper state of humidity necessary for the preservation of the seeds. M. Otto stated, in confirmation, that seeds sent to him in tin cases, hermetically sealed, never germinated, whilst those sent in boxes lightly covered with cloth generally arrived ina good state. Professor Link also stated that a vacuum quickly destroyed the germinative qualities of seeds, He mentioned an instance Foreign Notices : — Germany. 359 of wheat having grown, after being kept 140 years, without having been excluded from the air. I remember it being mentioned some years ago, by a gentleman whe had been in North America, and present during the excavations made for a fortification, that he had ebserved that the soil thrown up from under a number ef layers of limestone produced a variety of plants unknown in the neighbourhood: the inference is evident, that the seeds must have remained alive during the formation of the layers of limestone, and cer- tainly excluded from the air. Dr. Darwin mentions an instance of mustard seed producing a crop, on soil being dug up where it had been at rest for ages. Seclusion from light and heat in the bowels of the earth appears to be the most certain method of preserving seeds. In such a state the temperature does not vary; and to the want of this uniformity we may perhaps attribute the failure of M. Otto, when using tin cases hermetically sealed. If the case containing the seeds were placed in a box lined with a layer of dry charcoal, or any non-conductor of heat, might we not thus artificially produce a uniformity of temperature ? Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — Charles M. Willich. London, Feb. 27. 1832. The Prussian Horticultural Society.— At a Meeting held Feb. 5. 1832, among varieus other papers noticed, were the following: — A new method ‘of removing moss from fruit trees, by paring the trunk as far as to the inner bark, successively employed by the Arch-priest Masselli of Breslau; and anote from the commercial gardener, Herr Gottlieb Friedrich Seidel of Dresden, in which he extols the sea-kale (Crambe maritima), as forming an excellent fodder: in this opinion, however, the Society did not concur. ‘Several printed papers were transmitted to the Association; among them were the Proceedings of the Economical Society of Dresden (26th delivery), from which the director read an extract, describing a method (completely successful on the first trials) of laying up fruit after the manner of pota- toes, by placing them in heaps upon a layer of straw in a dry place, and overlaying them with a thick covering of straw and sandy earth; likewise by sinking new flower-pots, containing the fruit, several feet under ground, and covering them with straw and earth. The director also referred to an essay, equally worthy of attention, upon the storing of fruit in Pohl’s Intelligence concerning Domestic Affairs (4th number). The second volume of Herr Freidherrn von Hammerstein’s recent publications on agriculture, transmitted by the Agricultural Society at Felle, was the occasion of a discourse from Professor Link, private medical counsellor, who spoke with reference to that part which touches on the supposed origin of amber. Professor von Schlechtendal called the attention of the Meeting to the work announced by Professor Nees von Esenbeck, in Breslau, viz. The Natural Groups of Asters, illustrated by Figures, for which Griison, the bookseller, of Breslau, receives subscriptions. The professor further communicated some interesting articles from Loudon’s Gardener's Magazine (No. xxxii.). There were, besides, presented by Dr. Cranz, the landed proprietor of Brusenfelde, near Fiddichow, an interesting letter upon the labouring agriculturists in the province of Hither Pomerania and of the Island of Rugen ; by the counsellor of justice, Herr Burchardt of Landsberg, a very scarce work, viz. Les remonstrances sur le défault du labour et culture des plantes, et de la cognoissance @icelles, contenant la maniére d’affranchir et apprivoiser les arbres sauvages, par Pierre Bellon du Mans (Paris, 1558, 8vo). This work, according to the statement of Herr Link, possesses a high degree of interest, not on account of its rareness alone, but because it gave occasion to the establishment of the first botanic garden. The chamberlain, Count yon Hagen of Méckern, near Burg, gave information to the Meeting respecting the experiments made upon the cultivation of the seeds, sent from America to the Society, of a species of grass, very AA 4 ~ 360 Foreign Notices: — North America. much vaunted in that country under the name of crab-grass ; but, from the dried specimens presented at the same time, it is-conjectured to be no other than Digitaria filiférmis.— G. R. March, 1832. NORTH AMERICA. New York, Jan. 10. 1832.— It may give you some idea of the rarity of camellias, and the abundance of pine-apples, in this city, to inform you that the latter are now selling at 3d. and 4d. each, and the former at a dollar for an expanding bud. Almost the only nurserymen who have these flowers to cut for sale are the Messrs. Thorburns; and so great is the demand, that they have always a list of persons desirous of purchasing flowers, who are supplied, in the order in which their names stand on the list, as the buds successively expand. The flowers are worn by young ladies in their hair at parties. — B. P. Extract from a Letter lately received from North America.— |The follow- ing extract is from the letter of a journeyman gardener, whose employer in the United States is a respectable nurseryman. We give it chiefly with a view of showing the extreme industry of the young man, and the kind- ness of his employer.] I arrived safe here on the 22d of September, hav- ing been a month and twenty-two days crossing the Atlantic, that is, from land to land. Ihave been very well received here, and have been well treated ever since. I live in the house, and sit at my employer’s own table; 1 have access to a very good library; and, upon the whole, I anti- cipate a very good situation. cap a nn : < ; : I study a part of every night at my English and French grammars ; and Mrs. has promised to teach me to draw and colour fruits. I take a lesson on the German flute every night from the junior Mr. 3 and as I have already learned gymnastics, such as swimming, boxing, riding, and fencing, I entertain a strong hope of attaining all that you recommend in your Wncyclopedia to be learned by gardeners. Mr. has got your three Encyclopedias. . s . The weather, ever since I came, has been delightful. These two months past we have had but three wet days, and these two or three last mornings a little hoar-frost : the thermometer ranged from 50° to 75° of Fahrenheit, out of doors, in the shade. 1 will not pretend to describe the richness of the scenery around this city, be- cause I know you have fancied it all before this time; I shall only say that I am delighted wherever I turn. The taste for plants and gardening is spreading very rapidly in this country. Mr. told me that he now sends more nursery stuff west of the Alleghany Mountains, than he for- merly sold altogether. The market increases annually. Mr. Alexander Gordon lately called here, on his way to Florida and South Carolina: he looked in good health and spirits. He admired the apple trees in the nursery, and declared there were not any like them in North America. A horticultural society exists in this city, I may say in embryo; but the members appear to be quite enthusiastic, and of course it will succeed. A new member will be admitted without paymg the regular subscription, if he has written any thing for the advancement of gardening knowledge. I have been proposed, and balloted in already.— HV. Nov. 25, 1831. A Book on America has lately been produced by Mrs. Trollope. It is of the same character as Captain Hall’s: but, as it relates chiefly to man- ners, we think it is calculated to do much more good than the former. Both writers will be found cleverly dissected in Tiait’s Magazine for May, 1832, and an admirable criticism on Mrs. Trollope will be found im an article entitled Asmodeus, &c., in the New Monthly Magazine for the same month. The Americans, in the case of Mrs. Trollope, will do as the Scotch did in the case of Dr. Johnson, after the publication of the doctor’s tour in Scotland. They will profit from the remarks of their enemies. “ They haye Domestic Notices : — England. 361 generous feelings, sound sense, and, above all, a rising literature — the only true softener and purifier of manners. The diffusion of high and equal knowledge, and a taste for art, should be the great and unremitted ob- jects of the labours of the American patriots.” (Tait’s Mag., vol. i. p. 234.) Art. III. Domestic Notices. ENGLAND. P4in’s HILL near Cobham, Surrey, that celebrated and most beautiful seat, which we have long admired both for its actual beauties and the as- sociations connected with it, has lately been purchased by W. H. Cooper, Esq., of South Villa, Regent’s Park; whom we understand to be a liberal and enlightened man, and, as well as his lady, warmly attached to botany and horticulture. We are informed that great alterations are making in the house, to which a conservatory is about to be added by Mr. Burton. The Hot-houses at Bretton Hall, including the magnificent dome, figured in Vol. V. p. 681., and all the plants, with the museum, and many other articles, the property of the late munificent patroness of gardening and botany, Mrs. Beaumont, have lately been brought to the hammer, and sold for a mere trifle. The domical hot-house, which cost Mrs. Beaumont in all upwards of 14,000/., brought only 560/.: it was bought on a specula- tion, and is now to be sold. The sale of these hot-houses, and other arti- cles, we have been informed, has not taken place in consequence of any pecuniary difficulties, but, from a dislike on the part of Mr. Beaumont, the present possessor, to the general arrangement. In this respect, indeed, Bretton Hall was very unsatisfactory; and, though it contained a great many magnificent objects, it failed im producing, at least on us, and we have ‘seen it frequently, one grand and harmonious impression. How different the effect of Wentworth House! The approach road to Bretton Hall is pitiable, and indeed there is not a single grand line of road or walk, as far as we could observe, about the demesne. — Cond. Temple Newsham, near Leeds, is a pretty place; and Mr. Taylor, the gardener there, grows some of the finest pme-apples m England. He grew there last June a Providence pine which weighed upwards of 122 lbs. — Peter Martin. Leeds, April 9, 1832. The Bayswater Botanic Garden, and its extensive collection of hot-house plants, so admirably managed by Mr. Campbell, are still unsold. We earnestly hope they will be purchased by some person who will keep up the establishment, which has long been considered as one of the finest private collections in the country, ranking with those of Bury Hill and Bretton Hall. Seeds of the Palo de Vaco, the milk tree, have been sent home by Sir R. K, Porter, and distributed by his sister, Miss Jane Porter: one to Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester; one to Lord Powis ; one to the Royal Gardens at Kew; one to Messrs. Loddiges ; and the remaining one to ourselves. Some of these seeds we trust will vegetate. A tree of so much interest in its native country ought to be better known in ‘England; and, through the patriotic zeal of Sir R. K. Porter, and his amiable family, we have no doubt that this desirable end will be accom- plished. — Cond. New Seedling Cactus. — A new seedling cactus, between speciosa and speciosissima, is now in flower in thisgarden. The plant consists of one shoot 2 ft. high, with three large flowers on the top, of a deep scarlet colour. — Thomas Pressley. Plaistow Lodge, Bromley, Kent, April 26. 1832. 362 Domestic Notices : — Scotland. A new Variety of Hawthorn with Carmine-crimson Blossoms. — This thorn, of which you have requested some account, was received here by the name of “ new scarlet thorn” from Rivers’s Nursery, Sawbridgeworth, Herts ; whence, as T. Rivers, jun., told me, it has been widely spread. It certainly deserves to be spread; for it is one of the most lovely of trees, and much more desirable than the old pink thorn, or, as it is often called, scarlet thorn. One of the plants of the new kind, received here from Rivers’s, is about 5 ft. high and bushy, and last year displayed several corymbs of blossoms. The flowers were from twelve to twenty in a corymb, and each individual flower of two thirds of the breadth of a sixpenny piece; the petals were of a most beautiful carmine-crimson, except in their claws, which were white, and thus constituted a white eye surrounded by a broad crimson orbit. It is a most charming variety, and richly merits an immediate place in every garden.— Henry Turner. Botanic Garden, Bury St. Edmunds, Feb. 28. 1832. This account made us anxious to acquire so ornamental a shrub; and Mr. Rivers, jun., in a reply to our application, remarked : — “ What a sweet mass could be formed by grouping this bright-hued variety with other varieties, which would supply together gradations of colour. From the carmine-crimson of the blossoms of the new variety, we could descend to the pink hue in the blossoms of the old pink thorn; from this to a pale flesh colour in the flowers of the double thorn, for these are of a pale flesh colour when fading; and from this to pure white in the blossoms cf the common hawthorn, and those of the other species and varieties of Cratz‘gus.”— Cond. SCOTLAND. A General Cemetery for Edinburgh is in contemplation, but the site is not yet determined upon: one party, it seems, proposing to place it in a low wet piece of ground, called the Meadows; and another in the King’s Park, that is, in part of the royal domain of Holyrood Palace. Mr. Neill “ suggests one of the slopes at the south-western base of Arthur’s Seat, near the stile at Gibraltar House.’ This place, he says, would afford great variety of surface, “ capable of every sort of embellishment, architectural and arboreous.” We are glad to hear that the idea of orna- menting a cemetery is acceptable to the inhabitants of Edmburgh; and we hope, if such a burial-place should be formed there, a regular gardener will be appointed, so as to combine with it (as far as practicable), an arboretum and botanical garden. This seems to be Mr. Neill’s idea: we have thrown out one on the same subject, in the Hdinburgh Weekly Chro- nicle for Jan. 21. 1832. Our plan embraces the whole centre or cone of Arthur’s Seat, with a view of combining a public park or promenade with a cemetery, and with various other objects, hinted at in the following extracts from the newspaper alluded to : — “My plan does not include Salisbury Craigs, nor the east of the hill, but only the centre or cone, from its base at the park of Holyrood, on the one side, to the foot-path leading to the village of Duddingstone on the other. If this space were obtained, the main entrance might be made from the King’s Park, connecting it with the end of the Canongate by a bread road. From this main entrance let a carriage road be conducted up the hill, ascending it at not more than an inch in a yard (the slope of the road over the Simplon), and following all the irregularities of the sur- face, to which a rigid adherenee to this slope might lead, till it reached the summit. Let the road then terminate in a level circular platform, with the naked rock, which, if I recollect right, forms the apex of the conical hill, rising up in its centre. From this circular platform let another carriage road, departing at a point of the circumference opposite to that at which the other entered, descend the hill, winding round it at the same Domestic Notices : — Scotland. 363 degree of slope as the ascending road, and, like it, following all the irregu- larities of the surface, to which an adherence to this degree of slope might lead, till it reached the gate of entrance at the King’s Park. These two roads would, of course, cross each other at a number of places. Where they did so, let the one always cross the other over or under a bridge; not narrow architectural bridges, with parapet walls, like the viaducts of public roads, but simple rustic tunnels, like those which conduct (or did conduct thirty years ago) the eastern approach to Duddingstone House over the canal in the park. The length of the three arches of that viaduct is three or four times the width of the road, so as to admit of the latter being bordered by grass and trees, in such a way as to prevent the persons on the road from discovering that they are on abridge. In laying out the roads, convenience and economy might lead sometimes to the ascend- ing road passing under the descending one, and sometimes to a contrary arrangement. This, and a thousand details which will occur in practice, would be easily adjusted. “ These two roads, being laid out, would probably give five miles of ascending, and five miles of descending road; which, judging from the road ever the Simplon, might be trotted up and trotted down with ease. When the roads were newly made, the hill would have the appearance of being cut into winding terraces; but if the hill were properly sprinkled over with trees and shrubs, not to speak of tombs, monuments, and chapels, the effect, in a few years, would be totally different. “ In arranging the ground on each side of the road, I should propose that the flat and comparatively inconspicuous places round the base of the hill should be thinly planted with trees, in the park style; and, as being nearest the town, this part might be devoted to the burial of those who did not choose, or who could not afford, to purchase their lair, or erect grave-stones. Happily, in Scotland these are but few. Then, on the rock which forms the summit might be erected, as a crowning orna- ment to the whole, an open circular temple, the basement story of which might be occupied by tea-rooms, reading-rooms, &c. The whole of the space between the base and the summit, not occupied by what I would call temporary public burial-places, might be sold to different parishes for the purpose of building churches or chapels, with burial-grounds attached to each; or to any of the different sects of religion in Edinburgh, for the same purpose. The space not occupied in this manner would, of course, be let out to individuals for private burial-places, and for the erection of tombs or other monuments to the memory of their friends, or of great men of the past or present age; and I do not see why the spaces not wanted for the purposes mentioned might not be let out for a number of years, for the formation of small fancy gardens, or even sum- mer houses, or ornamental cottages. Among all these objects, trees, flowers, and plants would be introduced, according to the taste of the occupant ; care being taken, by a superintending committee, that the roads were kept in perfect order, and nothing erected or planted that was glaringly absurd. “ Such is the general outline of the style in which I would lay out Arthur’s Seat as a public cemetery and park. Perhaps there would not be many parishes or sects who would choose to build their churches or chapels on it; but I cannot help thinking a number of both would do so in time; and the objection of distance would be readily got over by Sunday omnibuses, which, for a few halfpence, would convey those who could not walk to and from the hill. At all events, by sprinkling the whole hill over with trees, as soon as the roads were laid out, one of the most sin- gular and interesting promenades in Europe would be formed. “Tt has long appeared to me (and I suggested the idea in the Hncyclo- 364 Domestic Notices : — Ireland. pedia of Gardening ten years ago) that if every part of Arthur’s Seat were rendered of easy access to carriages, by laying out roads in the manner which I have proposed above, it would be an admirable situation for villas and ornamental cottages. Perhaps one part of the hill might be devoted to this purpose, another to a zoological garden, and another to a general cemetery; but I confess I should prefer to see the whole a hill of churches, monuments, tombs, fancy gardens, and trees, with only a few intervening dwellings.” Mr. Neill, in a postscript to his pamphlet, says : -— “ Were Arthur’s Seat as near to London as it is to Edinburgh, Mr. Loudon’s plan would be good: but he seems to forget the difference between the two capitals. His scheme is too magnificent, and would prove too costly, for us: mine, I think, is moderate and practicable.’ This is no doubt true, if we limit our views to a cemetery; but if we extend them, so as to include churches, chapels, and other public buildings, and also private buildings, we should think the speculation likely to be a good one in a pecuniary point of view. — Cond. Mr. Neill’s Garden at Canonmills, —'The rage for cleanliness and puri- fication which lately existed in Edinburgh, in consequence of the cholera alarm, induced the magistrates to attempt to drain the loch or lake of Canonmills, on the margin of which the ancestors of Mr. Neill have enjoyed a small property ever since the close of the seventeenth century. This loch has become of more importance to Mr. Neill than it can have been to any of his ancestors, from the number of plants which he has in his garden. In a printed statement laid before the magistrates, he informs us that his garden, “ though very limited in extent, contains a cool green- house, a warm green-house, and a stove or hot-house, with a double pit, and two large frames, all of them filled with flower-pots. The number of flower-pots requiring a supply of soft or river water daily [which can only be procured from the loch; all the other sources being impregnated with salts of lime, or of iron, and incapable of dissolving soap] is 2604.” Mr. Neill farther observes, that “ when the rarity and costlmess of many of the plants are considered (the value of the collection amounting, according to the estimate of most competent judges [Messrs. M‘Nab, senior and junior, of the Royal Botanic Garden], to £600 it must be admitted, it is to me a concern of no little interest and importance, laying altogether out of view the pretium affectionis [their keepsake value]; and the existence of my garden depends on my having access to the loch.” We can sympathise with the feelings of Mr. Neill at the prospect of losing the soft water for his garden; and we heartily congratulate him and _ his friends about Edinburgh, and these include all who knew him, on the suc- cess of his remonstrance, and the preservation of the loch. We have long wished for a plan and bird’s-eye view of Mr. Neill’s suburban retreat, which all who have seen it allow to be unique; but our countrymen at Edinburgh are difficult to move. — Cond. IRELAND. Dublin, Feb. 21. 1832. — Our weather here is unnaturally mild. The winter has been a perpetual spring. At this moment, on the north side of this city, im my garden and elsewhere, laurels are in flower. Kérria japonica, and many others, are also in most plentiful flower; and peaches, &c., will be in blossom, if the weather continues the same, in another week. Currants and gooseberries are expanding their leaves. Many green-house plants have stood out safely with me the whole winter. I shall, I hope, send you a list, ere long, of plants which have stood out more than one year with me, amongst which you will find many not hitherto attempted to be acclimatised in this country. — 2. Mallet. Domestic Notices : — Ircland. 365 Rural Improvement. — Our correspondent, Mr. Murphy, we are glad to find, is making arrangements for being supplied with agricultural seeds ; and, as he has had much experience in rural affairs, he proposes affording to “ such gentlemen as honour his establishment with their orders, any in- formation which they may require, and which it may be in his power to give, as to the best means of reclaiming lands; the prices, age, and kinds of trees suited to particular soils and situations; the kinds and proportions of grass seeds adapted to particular circumstances, &c.; subjects, for want of an acquaintance with which, he has reason to know that large sums are annually misapplied in this country [Ireland}.’ A man of Mr. Murphy’s science and experience might render immense service to the agricultural interest in Ireland, if there were enterprise enough among the country gentlemen to consult him, and take his advice. — Cond. Improvement of the Labourmg Class. — In the county of Clare, about ten miles from the city of Limerick, Mr. Vandeleur resides on his estate; and has employed on it between sixty and seventy people, all the year round, at the rate of eight-pence per day. About one third of this number are women (there are no children employed) ; but the greater part of the labourers are young and strong men, between 18 and 30. Some live in single cottages of long standing; the remainder are boarded and lodged, under Mr. Van- deleur’s inspection, in large but comfortable rooms newly built for the purpose, which admit of many economical arrangements of fuel, cookery, attendance, and arrangements, which obviate the necessity of the young labourer marrying merely that he may have some one to cook and bring him his meals. Mr. Vandeleur’s ultimate object is to give the peasantry an opportunity of elevating themselves to comfort and independence by their own exertions, and, if they please, obtaining a permanent interest in the land which they till. The working plan is this: — The labourers have well arranged committees of cultivation amongst themselves, who not only examine the localities, and determine what is best to be grown upon each, but assist in doing the work themselves. An exact account is kept of all the expenditure and produce. The labourers are credited to the full with all they can bring to the barn or the market, for Mr. Vandeleur’s use: and are debited with their wages for present support ; with the rent of the land under cultivation, at an average of about 25s. per acre; with the county rates thereon; and, lastly, with the interest of Mr. Vandeleur’s stock and capital employed for their use. If they can produce a surplus on these necessary expenses, they are, by agreement, fully entitled to it, and may, if they think fit, become the purchasers of the land, at a fixed rate; or, having acquired stock of their own, they may remain on it as perpetual lessees. In its present early stage, this undertaking can only be considered as an experiment: it is, however, a most interesting one to the philanthro- pist; especially in the present state of the empire, when the oldest institu- tions are crumbling away before novel necessity and the growing spirit of reform in all things. Another undertaking, ona smaller scale, but which promises to be equally instructive as an example, has occurred in the county of Cork, a few miles from the coast, at Tullig, near Skibbereen. Mr. Thompson of Cork has laid out a model cottage farm, of five acres, for the instruction of a numerous tenantry, strongly attached to old modes of cultivation and old habits of all kmds. He has stocked one acre as a garden, with fruit trees, roots, &c. ; fenced, cultivated, and laid down the other four with the most improved rotation of cottager’s crops; built a cottage, with its addenda of cow- house, bee-house, pigsty, dairy, &c.; and placed a peasant of good cha- racter, and his little stock, on the little farm, with full powers to consume and enjoy all he can produce, but strictly bound to cultivate every perch” of it by spade, and in the manner which Mr. Thompson has laid down as most exemplary. Failing in this, the tenant will tail also in his right of 366 EXints for Improvements. possession, and must give way to one more docile; so that he has every inducement to persevere in orderly industry. Near this is another building, which Mr. Thompson is fitting up for a school of industry for the children of his tenants, without any intention to interfere, directly or indirectly, with their notions on religious topics. Around it, Mr. Thompson has marked out five acres more, which the chil- dren are to be taught to cultivate with spades, as a field garden, on the ‘most approved Flemish plan. The produce, great or small, is to be their own. The school does not open till spring, but the cottage-farm is fully stocked, and the tenant in possession. This Mr. William Thompson is the author of the Inquiry into the Distribution of Wealth. (Times of Feb. 22. 1832.) By a Report of the Agricultural Cooperative Society in the county of Clare, in The Crisis (edited by Robert Owen, and advocating co- operation and the other opinions of his party, published i in quarto weekly numbers, at a penny each), it appears that the above establishments are prospering. Every married man has a cottage to himself, and can either have his food cooked in the public kitchen, or dressed in his own house. The bachelors and spinsters sleep in separate dormitories. There is an infant school, in which every male youth is taught a trade, besides a thorough knowledge of agriculture. The children have a lecture three times a week, and two concerts, accompanied by dances. (Crisis, No. vii. . 20, ti oe resembles the Continent, where every proprietor of a park or a garden, from the king to the humble country gentleman, enhances his own enjoyment by sharing it with the public. (Tour of a German Prince.) Art.1V. Hints for Improvements. THE following Trees and Plants would be well worth acquiring for Culti- vation in Britain, viz. : — Fagus betuldides (the birch-like beech), an ever- green tree, 50 ft. high; Fagus antarctica (the Antarctic beech), a deciduous tree, 50 ft. in height ; ‘and the Wintéra aromatica ( Winter’s bark tree) : all found i in the severe climate of the Strait of Magellan. [agus éetuldides and antarctica were both introduced to Colvill’s Nur sery in 1830. Wintera aromatica (called now Drimys F orstér?) was introduced to Britam in 1827, but is as yet kept in the stove: it is an evergreen tree. — J. D.] At Zurich, apples of curious kinds are sold, some as white as snow. The inhabitants are particularly famed for the cultivation of flowers, and excel in China asters. At Lausanne, the red currants are of an extraordinar y size. In Russia, a variety of rice is used, which grows in Siberia, and is more succulent than that of America. Enquiries should be made about this 8 because, possibly, in it our bog soils might gain the acquisition of a new production. Tamarisk planted by cuttings in the spring, in driving sands on the sea- shore, will immediately take root ; and the falling leaves, in a few years, will fix the sand. Sea-weed may also be collected and spread over the sand, which the stems of the tamarisk would hold in their place. Tamarisk may be cut every spring, and thus yield an annual profit : the wood is heavy, and good to burn. - Wild Cabbage. ‘The Rev. W. T. Bree having called your attention to the wild cabbage of Dover, allow me to point out a use to which it may be most beneficially applied, viz., covering acres of sea-beach and driving sands, Plants should be put in in September or October; and in the spring, just as they were bursting into blossom, the crowns only should be cut to feed Retrospective Criticism. 867 cattle, and the stems left to seed, and possess themselves of the beach or sand. They would thus render these barren wastes most useful to the farmer ; and fix the sands, which now drive, and cover all before them. Sand, this very sand, is the best of all possible manures for clay and heavy land; and, where it can be obtained, no other manure would be required during a man’s life for such soils. If he could, in time, carry 500 loads per acre, it would work well at all seasons, and be the richest part of his farm. Pray call the attention of your readers to this fact.— A. X. Feb. 8, 1832. Art. V. Retrospective Criticism. CORRECTIONS to last Number.— In Dr. Hamilton’s notice of the Pita de Guataca, p. 240. line 21., for “a small apple,’ read “a small pine- apple.” PM. Toward’s Mode of having Volumes prepared for dried Specimens of Plants. — Sir, Your description of this mode occurs in Vol. IV. p. 436., and not p. 468., as you have wrongly indicated in Vol. VII. p. 155. — A Porer. The Writings of Gardeners. — The following reason why the writings of gardeners “ are not rendered so instructive as they might be, and as they ought to be, by those who pretend to teach,” is given in the Repertory of Patent Inventions for May, p. 310.: —“ There are professional arcana, which writers may never intend to reveal ; and, in fact, it is scarcely reasonable to expect that they, who have a living to earn by their professional pursuits, should lay open to public view all the secrets of their art, particularly those more delicate minutize upon which chiefly depends the success of an important operation. The blame, in reality, attaches to the insincerity of the pretence, not to the prudence of the writer.” Our contemporary was never farther from the truth than in the foregoing professional charge, which may justly be considered a libel on the whole race of modern gardeners. There is not a British horticultural writer, from Abercrombie (the author of Hvery Man his own Gardener, in 1766) to the present day, whose works do not contradict our contemporary’s asser- tion. Gardeners may have described the processes of their art imperfectly, from not being in the habit of writing; but our contemporary must know very little, indeed, either about gardeners or their art, or he would never have allowed himself to indulge in the strain which we have quoted. He grounds his observation on a passage in the introduction to Cobbett’s Eng- lish Gardener, very well calculated to sell that book, because it promises to tell all that is known, and that has never been told before; but if any pos- sessor of Cobbett’s work will turn to Mawe’s Every Man his own Gar- dener, even to any of the earlier editions, he will find all that Cobbett has done (and, as he would insinuate, for the first time) done better half a cen- tury ago. What Cobbett undertakes is merely to describe minutely the mechanical processes, which Abercrombie had done long before. _Cobbett knows as little of vegetable physiology, or of the science of gardening, as the editor of the Repertory of Patent Inventions evidently does of the practice of gardening, or of its professors. Ifa further proot of this were required, the paper the editor has quoted to illustrate his observation would prove his ignorance of the subject, as, though very good in itself, it does not contain a single fact that was not previously well known, and that had not been as well told before. — Cond. Correction of an Error in the Encyclopedia of Plants. — “ Diclytra,” instead of Diélytra. The same error also occurs several times in the body of the book. Dr. Hooker, in his Botanical Magazine, No. 3031., remarks ; — “ Diélytra is from dis, twice, and elytron, a cover; in allusion 368 Retrospective Criticism. to the two petals terminating in a bag or pouch. It is by mistake often spelled Diclytra.’ Your youthful correspondent. — C. 7. W. Derby- shire, January 11. 1832. We have already alluded to this correction, Vol. VII. p. 60., at bottom ; but admit C. T. W.’s with thanks, because it is more in detail, and to evince our respect for our “ youthful correspondent’s ” lucid correction.— J. D. Sweet's British Flower-Garden. — Sir, In the reply of F. (p.87.) to my observations on Sweei’s British Flower-Garden, inserted in Vol. VII. p- 709., he appears to have wholly mistaken my object: it was certamly not with a view of attacking the gentleman who conducts that work with so much ability, that I animadverted upon it; but merely with the intention of recommending to your readers not to be too hasty in transferring to their flower-borders new and scarce plants, until they had first obtained dupli- cates. When the publication of the British Flower-Garden was first announced, it was proposed to figure only hardy plants, or such as would endure the winter in the open flower-borders: this was its professed object. Now, I will only ask F. candidly to state, if all, or even many, of the plants figured, are calculated for this purpose. That many of them are very beautiful, Iam ready to admit ; consequently, a great proportion of the readers of the work would probably be anxious to possess them; but if they were, on purchasing them, immediately to transfer them to their flower-borders, would they not be doomed to disappointment and loss ? They must effectually keep the frost from some; others would perish, by being exposed to too much wet; and there are some that would never do any good in open borders, under any circumstances. If, therefore, artificial means are absolutely necessary to preserve them, is it not a misapplication to call them hardy? Would it be desirable to have the flower-garden (which you, Sir, very properly recommend to- be, in every case, near the rooms most immediately in use) studded with pots, mats, litter, &c., for five or six months in the year? I have no objection, individually, to the plan of the work being changed; but I do protest against tender plants being figured in a work professing to give only hardy flowers and shrubs ; and at the same time recommending them as calculated for open flower- borders. It is certainly very proper to attempt to acclimatise as many exotics as possible, and it is an object worthy the attention of every cul- tivator ; because, in effecting it, you procure in many species far more beau- tiful and splendid flowers than you can do by growing them in pots. It is, therefore, not with any intention of deprecating these experiments that i have mooted the question, but solely with a view of recommending caution in the application. To the skilful and experienced, this advice is unneces- sary; but to those who, like myself, only cultivate plants for amusement, it may be of some use. I need not take up your space in enumerating such plants as I consider not calculated for the flower-garden, because it must be obvious that my observations apply principally to the Cape bulbs, &c., and to such herbaceous and alpine plants as are liable to be killed by frost or wet; also to some of those that are so exceedingly diminutive, that they are little calcuiated for the borders, although very necessary in a collection as pot plants. Whether any of the above ought to have a place in a work such as the publication in question professes to be, I have great doubts; but I have none as to their unfitness for the flower-garden. FE. London, February 18. 1832. The Agricultural and Horticultural Exhibition held at Stirling (p. 114.), and probable Origin of the Term “ Whinstone.’ — These exhibitions, judging from first appearances, must, if persevered in, be attended with the most beneficial results to that part of the country, and reflect infinite credit on their promoters. You mention that the Irish whin was exhibited as an article of green food for cattle, and properly re- mark, that, owing to the difficulty of propagating it, it is not likely to answer the end. The common variety of U‘lex europz‘a is that used for Retrospective Criticism. 369 feeding horses ii this country. Every small farmer, in districts where whin abounds in the north of Ireland, has a stone trough, in which the tender shoots are beaten to a pulp, with a wooden mallet. “This trough is generally formed of granite, and always of the hardest rock, whence, pro- bably the term whinstone, as commonly applied to every very hard stone. I have seen the Irish whin very extensively employed in this manner, and only wonder that the use of it is not still more general. — EF. Murphy. Dublin, February 7. 1832. The Irish furze is cultivated in the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Co., Fulham, and is named by Mr. George Don, in our Hortus Britannicus, p- 280., “ Ulex hibérnica.” In some collections it is named Ulex europea var. stricta; but Mr. J. T. Mackay considers it a distinct species, and no variety of either U‘lex europe‘a or nana, and names it, im his Catalogue of the Indigenous Plants of Lreland, U‘lex stricta. The principal, perhaps only, stations for it are the park and shrubberies of the Marquess of Lon- donderry, at Mount Stewart, county of Down; and of its origin there no one knows any thing. It has been stated to grow readily from cuttings, and to be a very valuable plant to the agriculturist. Mr. Stewart Murray states that it has been planted in dry hilly pastures in the north of Scotland, and that in the early spring it throws up a copious crop of succulent shoots, which are greedily eaten by sheep, when the supply of grass is sufficient. — Cond. Mr. Howden’s Answer to Mr. M. Murphi’s and Mr, Haycroft’s Criticisms on his Remarks on Irish Cottages and Irish Labourers. — We have received a long letter from Mr. Howden, in answer to Mr. M. Murphy (Vol. VII. p. 505.), and to Mr. Haycroft (Vol. VII. p.710.); we cannot insert it in full, but the following are, extracts: — Mr. Howden says, he is happy to hear that Mr. Haycroft is well, and that the wages of the men at Doneraile have been raised from 8d. to 10d. per day ; he hopes that the women’s and boys’ wages have also been raised from 4d. to 5¢,; “a mighty sum truly,” says he, “ when we consider that the Irish pennies go (like the baker’s rolls) thirteen to the dozen, If these be the wages civen bv the first-rate noblemen, what can be expected fr _ ~ deners in my time, viz. 1813, I acknowicus- were 8d. per day; but what with sickness, and saints’ days w numerous, together with stoppages for back debts, the subsisting money for eighteen human beings was no more, and often less, than 40s. per week. I remember one of my men stopping the whole of his wages for six whole weeks to pay 24s. for a hat. The poor fellow had some thoughts of going to England, and he thought the hat would make him look respectable. Every good thing in Ireland (except whisky) is dearer than in England. I tried to buy some Irish linen at a shop in Doneraile, and found that 3s. per yard was the lowest price; for, as the draper said, he dealt with the very first house in London for his Irish linen. This seemed rather like an Irish bull.” In another part of Mr. Howden’s letter, he says, “ With respect to Mr. M. Murphy’s remark (Vol. VIL. p. 505.) on my comparing my wife to a Venus, he must know that all lovers, and particularly poetical lovers, compare their mistresses to Venuses, &c.; and, after a fifteen years’ trial, ] am as fond of my wife as <¢ When I first show’d her the ring, and implored her to marry.” Mr. Howden adds, “ that he never meant to say that the Irish peasantry were afraid of any thing: the man is no coward who dares to marry, and get a family of children, knowing that 5s. must feed and clothe them all for seven days.’ Still he believes “ that children fed entirely on potatoes, and not half clothed, with quite naked feet, must give the features a different east from that stamped on them by the hand of ther Creator. The grass Vou. VIII. — No. 38. BE 370 Retrospective Criticism. land given to the poor in Ireland, for potatoes, is no favour at all, but quite the reverse: it saves the landlord, or farmer, the trouble of cleaning and manuring a naked summer fallow; yet this privilege is estimated at Done- raile as one fourth of a man’s wages. The farm-labourers, in 1813, had no more than 6d. per day, and the gardeners 8d.”— J. H. Heath House, January 8. 1832. Collecting Slugs and Snails by Cabbage Leaves which have been heated and greased (p. 149.). — Sir, In clearer explanation of my plan, as described p. 149., I may say the cabbage leaves are not to be daubed all over with grease. I warm the leaves until they become quite soft, and I then rub a little bit of any sort of fresh grease between my hands, and this done rub the most of it off on a cloth, and then give each leaf a clap between my hands, but very softly indeed, and then lay them in the places where the snails occur. — Peter Martin. I.eeds, April 9. 1832. To put a stop to the Ravages which Caterpillars commit on Gooseberry Bushes. — In this neighbourhood, several gardeners use the powder of black hellebore, wetting the bush first, then shaking on the powder through a dredging-box. I use, with great success, the flour of mustard seed in the same way, which is less expensive and less dangerous than the powder of hellebore. — Id. Siebe’s Cocks. —You have in Vol. VII. p. 84., been very laudatory of Siebe’s cocks. He is not the inventor of them; as you may see by looking at the Repertory of Arts for 1800 (vol. ix. p. 37-89), where you will find Mr. Joseph Bramah’s original specification of a patent for them ; so that Mr. Siebe cannot possibly maintain his patent. My maternal grandfather and Bramah were fellow-apprentices, and warm friends while both were alive ; and my father has frequently heard the former say, that, however well the cocks seemed in hypothesis, they never answered in practice. Now, you ought to publish this, because a monopoly for an old invention is intoler- able. — Robert Mallet. Dublin, Feb. 21. 1832. Filtering Machines. —'There was much noise made some time ago, about a supposed new filtering machine, made by some one in Oxford Street (1 forget the name). The water was to be forced through a stone disc, at one end of an iron cylinder, by a small pump, on the principle of the hydraulic press. Bramah was also the inventor of this; and the descrip- tion of it is contained in the specification of the patent above alluded to. (Repertory of Arts, vol. ix. p. 378.) — R. Mallet. Dublin, Feb. 21. 1832. Ammoniacal Gas. — I know that I am an inventor, but I perceive by your February Number (p. 41.) that Iam not the first inventor, of the application of ammonia to the destruction of insects.— Id. Leathern Wallet, §&c. — As a reader of your Magazine, I must enter my protest against the decision of T. S. (p. 86.), that it is frivolous to intro- duce figures and descriptions of implements, &c., because, forsooth, they may be common in any given portion of the United Kingdom. I should be glad to be informed, whether, previously to the appearance of the figure (Vol. VIL. p. 613.) to which T. S. objects, any thing so well adapted to the purpose was used, or even known, in this part of the world. — H. Murphy. Dublin, Feb. 2. 1832. Cottam and Hallen’s Iron Stakes for supporting Plants. — Sir, Your corre- spondent, E. S.( Vol. VII. p.'715.), objects to what he calls the poker-like shape of my iron stakes (Vol. VII. p. 284.) ; but Ican assure him the sight of them would convince him the comparison will not hold. As he agrees in their economy, beauty, and safety, I would advise him to order a lot from Messrs. Cottam and Hallen, and I would almost engage to say he would be satisfied of their superiority. I have one now in sight, 6 ft. high when in the ground; a clean cast-iron rod tapering from an inch in diameter at the surface, to three eighths of an inch at top. The foot is 20 in. long, tapering down- Retrospective Criticism. 371 wards, 14 inch square at the shouldering, and slightly grooved. A plant with any weight of head, attached to a rod such as E. S. prefers, would be laid flat on the ground by a few hours’ wind and rain: not that the rod itself would either bend or break ; but unless the soil in which it is inserted were iron, as well as the rod, it could not, in such circumstances, maintain its position. I am, yours, &c.— J. Hislop. Ashtead Gardens, Feb. 6. 1832. Certain Gardens near Dublin.— Sir, I notice in the February Number of your Magazine (p.83.), under the head “ Corrections for the Encyclopedia of Gardening,”’ what I cannot avoid considering a very invidious compae- rison, instituted by my respected fellow-citizen, Mr. Mallet, between the gardens of Frederick Bourne, Esq., and those of Counsellor West, both in the vicinity of this city; and as I, n common with all who have witnessed the expense Mr. Bourne has incurred, and the interest he takes in diffus- ing a taste for the more elegant branches of gardening, should be sorry to find the observations to which I allude perpetuated in a future edition of the Encyclopedia, I will, with your permission, endeavour to set you right upon the subject. In the first place, then, I conceive that Mr. Mallet is not correct when he states, that, in the short notice of the garden at Terenure, which appears in the Encyclopedia of Gardening, you either emblazoned or exaggerated its deserts ; on the contrary, I think it is evident that the information you were enabled to obtain regarding this, and other gardens on this side the Channel, did not afford you sufficient data for doing justice to them. When Tinform you that 60,000 of the finest ranunculuses, almost an equal number of the choicest hyacinths, 1700 varieties of roses, many of them no where else to be seen in this country, together with a splendid collection of georgi- nas, flower annually in the gardens of Terenure; and that these dazzling exhi- bitions are, with unexampled liberality, thrown open to every person of respectable appearance* ; whilst Counsellor West’s garden is not accessible even to gardeners and amateurs; you will easily decide which of these gardens merits the more flattering notice. Nor is it in floriculture only that the garden at Terenure excels every other in the vicinity of Dublin : the exotic department is highly respectable, and the collection of trees and shrubs can only be equalled in Ireland by that in the Botanic Garden, Trinity College. é Neither are you, Mr. Conductor, liable to censure for having omitted to notice Counsellor West’s garden in the Encyclopedia of Gardening ; as I doubt whether that garden was, at the time your work was published, (as Mr. Mallet would say,) in rerum natura: but be that as it may, that it is well deserving of notice at the present time I am most ready to admit, and we feel obliged to Mr. Mallet for his description of it. He must, how- ever, pardon me for thinking his account would have been more valuable, if, instead of noticing vine borders 40 ft. wide, and “asparagus beds drained 5 ft. deep with boulder granite” (i.e. round granite stones found on the surface of the ground, the advantage of which, in preference to brick-hats, gardeners have yet to learn), he had favoured us with an account of the tropical fruits it contains, viz. guavas, mangoes, mangosteens, &c.; in the cultivation of which, I believe, Counsellor West has been very successful. —H. Murphy. Dublin, Feb. 7. 1832. Choice of Situation. — Sir, 1 have been much gratified by perusing the “General Results” of your “ Tour ;” abounding, as they do, in every page with excellent philosophical and practical remarks. I was more particu- larly struck with what you say (Vol. VII. p. 644.) of building and plant- ing in hilly countries, in preference to level ones, which reminded me of an * 1400 persons, principally shopkeepers and artisans, have been known to visit these gardens in a single day last summer. BB 2 372 Queries and Answers. eloquent passage in your own favourite newspaper, the Scotsman, which I extract, thinking it well worth a place in your Magazine: — “ I sometimes wonder how rich men, who can live where they please, after having once enjoyed the glories of mountain scenery, should choose to live in the interminable flats of Lincoln or Cambridgeshire. To dwell in a plan, without visible boundaries, affects me as if I were left at large in the world without a home; and to nestle in a wooded spot, where the eye cannot penetrate a mile in any direction, gives me a feeling of being imprisoned or smothered. This, I own, is a matter of taste; but the superior advan- tages which a mountain offers for exercise are great and palpable.” (Scots- man, Aug. 1. 1829.) I am, Sir, yours, &c.—John Robert Lawrence. Aberdeen, Dec. 30. 1831. Art. VI. Queries and Answers. A CERTAIN Irish Mansion (fig. 35. p. 91.).— The singular edifice of which a drawing is given in p. 91., stood at Ballyscullion, in the county of Londonderry, and was erected by Lord Bristol, then bishop of that diocese. A figure and description of both the interior and exterior, but which I do not consider of sufficient importance to occupy your pages, will be found in the Rev. Mr. Sampson’s Statistical Survey of the County of Londonderry. The situation of this house was extremely ill-chosen, and notwithstanding the immense sum that was expended in erecting it, and that it was furnished in a style of Oriental splendour, Sir Harvey Bruce, to whom it was bequeathed, wisely abandoned it for a less imposing but more rational mansion. The portico of Ballyscullion House is now the portico of one of the churches im Belfast ; and some splendid foreign marble columns and chimney-pieces, which were brought from it, may be seen in the Bishop of Meath’s house at Portglenone. In this way the whole has been trans- ported to one place or other, and not a vestige remains to mark the spot where, like the builders of the tower of Babel of old, the Bishop of Derry fondly imagined he was establishing for himselfa name. “ Sic transit gloria mundi!” — #. Murphy. Dublin, Feb. 7. 1832. Sir, Lord Bristol’s mansion, Ickworth, near Bury St. Edmunds, is upon the plan indicated in your engraving (p. 91.), though it does not agree with it in all its details. When I saw it in 1821, the body of the house only was erected ; but the foundation of the wings indicated a plan as nearly as possible agreeing with that in the drawing. The history I then learned respecting it was this, that it was built in imitation of an Italian villa, after a plan sent over from Italy, by the late Lord Bristol, who was bishop of Derry, and who, residing almost entirely abroad, spent a great part of the revenues of the see in works of taste and fancy. I was told also that he had had two other mansions erected in Ireland, upon exactly the same plan; that Ickworth was the last of the three; and that he himself had never seen any of them. Ickworth was intended to be the principal of these three mansions; but a vessel, containing rich marble and other ornaments, purchased in Italy, and intended for it, having been taken by one of Napoleon’s ships, the building itself was not proceeded in beyond the erection of the walls and roof, till the present Lord Bristol commenced fitting up some of the rooms a few years since. What pro- gress has been made since the visit I paid it in 1821, I have not learned. — S.R. B. Feb. 1832. Salt as a Destroyer of Weeds. — 1 should be glad to know if any of your readers has tried what quantity of salt will destroy all the perennial-rooted weeds, and how long it will be before the soil can be cropped with safety ? Also, what vegetable or fruit will be most suitable for the first crop? I. am, Sir, yours, &c.— A Friend to Enquiry. March 26. 1832. Queries and Answers. 373 A short criticism, which we have too long neglected, and although on another subject, bears sufficiently on the question just asked to merit in- sertion here. — Cond. Salt as Manure. (Vol. II. p. 1.) — There are many conflicting opinions on the merits of salt as a manure, and whether it is a manure or not. Has there not been a want of discrimination in the different experiments? Are there not some plants and flowers, say hyacinths, tulips, and several other bulbous-rooted flowers, and many others, which thrive and grow more luxuriantly near the sea, with asoil and atmosphere impregnated with saline matter? It is said that Portsmouth and Portsea produce the finest broccoli: perhaps a judicious application of salt would, for these plants, be found beneficial, more particularly on chalky soils, and an inland situ» ation. Does not experience show that it is improper to manure light land with light compost, and vice versa? The farmers in the hundreds of Essex manure with chalk, to neutralise the saline qualities of the soil. If so, would not a proper application of salt on chalky lands be of essential benefit, and even on some other lands; and should it not be applied some length of time previous to the plants being planted, or the seeds sown ? for I think it will be found evident, that salt applied after the foliage appears, will be prejudicial, if net destructive: I have used it, but never to any advantage. — Charles Baron. Saffron Walden, Feb. 7. 1827. In relation to this subject, it merits notice here, that, at a meeting of the Cupar Horticultural Society, on the 25th of April last, a prize was given to Mr. William Smith, for leeks. These leeks, according to the Fife Herald of May 3., in which the show is reported, “ were of an uncommon size; indeed, none of a similar size had before been shown at the meetings of this Society. Mr. Smith mentioned that the ground upen which the leeks were produced had been manured with common salt. The salt must be strewed upon the ground when the seed is sewn; for, if applied after vegetation has commenced, it will destroy the plants.” — J. D. Thinning and Pruning Plantatwons.— In Mr. Alexander Gordon’s in- teresting remarks ‘on some gardens and country residences in Leicester- shire (Vol. VII. p. 421.), mention is made, in high terms of commend- ation, of the system of thinning and pruning successfully adopted in the management of the plantations at Prestwould. Practical facts, such as these, are what are still much wanted, and your correspondent would confer obligation on many of your readers, by giving them, through the medium of your Magazine, full particulars of the “ regular and systematic method of thinning and pruning, from the original planting to the full perfection of the timber, to which he alludes.’ —J. H. M. Woodfield, Dec. 1831. EL 5 What is the best Work on laying out Villa and other small Residences, and its Price? —W. Seymour. Palace Gardens, Bishopthorpe, March 26. 1832. Answer. — Hints for laying out Town Gardens and Suburban Villas, from one Perch to a Hundred Acres in Extent. London, 1811, 4to. The price,. we believe, was originally 48s., but the work is now very scarce. We shall begin a series of designs for laying out gardens and pleasure-grounds, in our next Number. — Cond. A Catechism of Gardening. —I wish you would draw up a small work, to teach the schoolmaster gardening; and also another elementary one, to put into the hands of the school children. — J. S. 12. Dumfries-shire, April 26. 1832. In Bavaria, there is Hazzi’s Catechism of Agriculture and Horticulture, which is taught in the public schools to the whole of the population. We do not see why there should not be, not only a similar catechism in this country, but one for every particular trade. This was attempted some years ago by Sir Richard Phillips ; but his Catechism of Agriculture was ten times too dear. Works of this kind should be as cheap as religious BB3 374 Queries and Answers. catechisms. Whenever any bookseller shall be found willing to undertake such publications, we shall be ready either to write them, or to get them written in the very best manner. — Cond. Murrays Tallies (fig. 16. Vol. INI. p. 29.).— I can get none of these tallies about London ; and knowing no one about Glasgow, I apply to you for advice, &c.—- R. S. T. LHxmouth, Feb. 20. 1832. These tallies may be had of Messrs. Cottam and Hallen, of Winsley Street, London, in quantities under a ewt., at 2s. 3d. per dozen, with the iron only; or 3s. per dozen with the iron and small pieces of deal for writing the name on, and of glass to fit. In quantities above a cwt. the price will not exceed 18s. per ewt. for the largest size, or 22s. for the smallest. We recommend purchasers of these tallies, or any others of the iron kind, to pay a trifle extra to the manufacturer for putting them when nearly red hot into train-oil or gas-liquor. We also recommend gardeners, when they send for only a dozen or two of small articles of this sort, to pay the postage of their letters. Of all the tallies which we have seen, Murray’s are by far the cheapest and best for herbaceous plants in the open air. For large trees and shrubs, brick tallies (figs. 11. and 12., p.33. of our present Volume) are preferable, on account of their durability, and the more fixed and permanent character of their appearance. — Cond. Weights and Measures in Covent Garden Market. — Sir, It was observed, Vol. VII. p. 255., that the lists of prices in Covent Garden Market are deprived of half thei utility to country readers from many of the terms being used only in London. I perfectly agree in this opinion; and hope that the objection may soon be removed, by having such terms as punnets, sieves, &c., explained in such a manner as to be intelligible to your country readers. —J.W.L. Birmingham, Sept., 1831. The indigenous Flowers and Fruits of the State of Ohio. — Mrs. Trollope, in her Domestic Manners of the Americans, vol.t. p. 87., says, speaking of Cincinnati : — “ The flowers of these regions were as bad as the fruits. Whether this proceeds from want of cultivation, or peculiarity of soil, I know not; but, after leaving Cincinnati, I was told by a gentleman who appeared to understand the subject, that the state of Ohio had no indi- genous flowers or fruits.” As Mrs. Trollope is considered to have given way to her prejudices on other subjects connected with America, and as L intend, notwithstanding all she has said to emigrate thither, as soon as I ean raise money to pay for the passage of myself and a large family; I should much wish to know what truth there is in this information of “a gentleman, who appeared to understand the subject.’ Perhaps some of your readers who have been in America, or some American correspondent, can solve my difficulty. Jam the more anxious to have it solved, be- cause, assuredly, if there be no indigenous flowers and fruits at Cincinnati, jt is the very part of America that I would emigrate to in preference. It will be rather odd if I do not find some of the fruits and flowers of corre- sponding latitudes that will flourish there, whatever may be the “ peculiarity of soil.’ — R. S. 7. Holderness, April 15. 1832. The Tree Mignonette.— In Jesse’s Gleanings in Natural History, just published, it is stated (p. 165.) that, “in trenching for a plantation ina part of Bushy Park which had probably been undisturbed by the spade or plough since, and perhaps long before, the reign of Charles I.; the ground was turned up in the winter, and in the following summer it was covered with a profusion of the tree mignonette, pansies, and the wild raspberry.” - Now, Sir, on turning to your Hortus Britdannicus (p. 190.), I find that Reséda odorata var. frutéscens was not introduced till the year 1752, upwards of a century after Charles I. was beheaded. In the same page it is stated, that, so completely is the ground impregnated with seeds, if “earth is brought to the surface at the lowest depth to which it is found, some vegetable matter will spring from it.” This last is by far too in- definite an assertion to be made in a_scientific work. Will the author Queries and Answers. 375 affirm that the London clay, for instance, at the depth of 100 or 200 ft., contains seeds, which, when the clay is exposed to the surface, will vegetate? As to the tree mignonette, I should really be glad to know what plant is meant by it. Surely Mr. Jesse cannot mean the British Reseda lutea or Lutéola? Perhaps some of your readers in the neigh- bourhood of Bushy Park will be good enough to examine the spot, and to send you the result. — A Lover of Accuracy. Hereford, April 14. 1832. Huish’s Beehive. — Sir, In your Encyclopedia of Gardening, 2d edit., § 1743., you have given a description of Huish’s beehive. I, having come to this part of India, was much delighted to find bees cultivated by the mountaineers ; who, instead of hives, use the hollowed stem of a tree, and shut it up at each end with a bit of plank, closing the joints with lime mortar. The box thus made is preserved from the heat of the sun by being placed under the eaves of the thatch of the cottages, which extend 2 ft. or 3 ft., and come down very low, to exclude the heavy rains that fall here for seven months; or is protected at a distance by a few mats. The honey is excellent. I have often tried to cultivate bees in the plains of Hmdoo- stan; and, though I have repeatedly caught and hived swarms, I could never retain them. Once, indeed, I kept one for a fortnight, which began to make acomb. I believe the reason is, that the heat of the hive is too great, being frequently 120° to 130°, or perhaps more: the air is often 110° to the westward. | The object, however, of my now addressing you, is to enquire whether, in Huish’s Treatise on Bees, there is not a misprint, which you have copied. He says : —“ Having obtained eight pieces of well-seasoned wood, about 3in. broad.” Now, this would be 24 in. for the breadth of the hive, with- out any interstice for his net; whereas in his engraving [fig. 295.6, of Encyc. of Gard.| (1 have his book), the interstice is three times the breadth of the piece of wood: perhaps it should be three quarters of an inch. Pray do me the favour to consider this; and, if you know Huish, enquire from him the height and breadth of his hive, and how his eight pieces of wood are placed. Iam, Sir, yours, &.— W. Cracroft. Kossya Moun- tains, 4500 ft. high, Nov. 15. 1831. ~ On application to Mr. Huish, he kindly sent us the following; which we hope will be satisfactory to our correspondent, — from whom we shall be happy to hear frequently. — Cond. In reply to your Indian correspondent on the Kossya Mountains, request- ing some information relative to the construction of my hive, I beg leave to inform him that he is perfectly right in supposing that the dimensions, as stated in the first edition of my Treatise on Bees, are incorrect; and I regret to state that the error has been the occasion of many persons being deterred from adopting the hive, on account of the difficulty attending its construction, arising solely from the inaptness of the dimensions as printed in the book. When the first edition of the work was printed, I may say that the hive was then in its infancy. The form was originally circular ; but the disadvantages of that form soon presented themselves: the prin- cipal of which was, that the side combs, which are always the largest, and contain the finest honey, were reduced to a very small size, on account of the segment of the circle allowing the bees very little scope in which to form acomb. By the aid, however, of some skilful workmen at Datchet, I succeeded by degrees in bringing the hive to an almost perfect square; and as such it is now in use: and your Indian correspondent will find it to be his interest to adopt that shape, as nearly as the skill of the workman can accomplish it. Seven bars will be found quite sufficient; although it must be taken into consideration that Iam here alluding to an English climate. The bars should be three quarters of an inch, or an inch, in breadth, and made of oak or elm: deal is in its nature too frangible, and too apt to warp, The distance of the bars from each other should be from 11 in. to BB 4 376 Cottage Gardens, 2in., particularly observing to give a greater space between the side bars than between those in the middle. The bars are fastened at each end to a projecting band of the hive by means of a wooden peg, or by nails known by the name of clouts: the latter are, however, apt to rust, which sometimes impedes the extraction of the comb. In regard to the height and breadth of the hive, they are entirely a matter of option; it is, however, a mistaken notion that the larger the hive the greater the produce of honey. Too much space is as injurious to the bees as too little; but, in adopting the meditim, the apiarian must be guided by the climate in which he lives, and by the fertility of the district in which his apiary is situated. My hive is now generally made of about 16 rands of straw, and averages about 20 in. in height up to the projecting rand on which the bars rest. The breadth should be nearly equal to the height, observing particularly that the upper part of the hive be broader than the lower, im order to prevent the falling of the comb, as no sticks are ever to be used in one of my hives. I believe I have now answered the different queries of your Indian cor- respondent; and I take the opportunity of informing you, that, m a very short time, I will transmit you an article on the power of the common bee to generate a queen; which fallacy has been lately industriously circulated by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, on the mere autho- rity of Huber, whem I hesitate not to designate the Munchausen of api- arians. Iam, Sir, yours, &c.— Robert Huish. May 18. 1832. Art. VII. Cottage Gardens, and Gardens to Workhouses, Prisons, Asylums, &c. I BELIEVE there is no nation that thinks more of its poor, or is more alive to charity, or more anxious to relieve the distresses of the wretched, than the people of this country. I think, however, that some of the best-intentioned philanthropists are deceived in their exertions to be of service to mankind. At this moment wealthy and liberal landlords are apportioning to cottagers an acre of land, more or less, hoping and be- lieving it will afford the greatest benefits to the humbler classes. Your Magazine, and the public press generally, are caught with the good it will do; and I am therefore less confident in my opinion upon that subject than I otherwise might be: but, anxious, as a landlord, to do good to those around me, I would most willingly give my labourers and cottagers land, if by sucha system I could persuade myself it would be for their benefit. Sup- posing a nobleman or gentleman had fifty day labourers, each having his acre of ground. Asa gardener, I need not state to you at what season, or what time during that season, it would be requisite that the labourer should work upon it. I thmk I have read in your publications, and in other works, that an acre of garden ground is sufficient to occupy the entire of aman’s time; but, for argument’s sake, suppose I say that two months’ Jabour would suffice. To do justice to his ground, the labourer would be engaged just at those moments his master would require his work on the farm to be going on; and it could hardly be supposed that a landlord could employ such a peasantry on his estates, taking only half days and quarter days of his men’s coming to work; four days in this week, three in another, one in another, and so forth; the remainder of the man’s time being re- quired to manage his own acre. This, in my mind, is the first objection to the plan; but there is another, which appears to me as powerfu!, that I wish an answer to. I am really seeking information, to follow the steps of others (if persuaded), anxious to ameliorate the condition of the poor in my own parish. How would you recommend the cultivation of the said acre? Potatoes, and Gardens to Workhouses, &c. 377 the best and most useful crop, you are aware, cannot be planted year after year on the same ground. Land should be laid down, and be in repose, at times, unless it is a garden well manured ; and how is that to be supplied to the labourer ? The ashes, the manure of the pigsty, and other et cetera, which the labourer could heap together, would be too trifling. Cabbages, onions, &c., are such things as the little garden, which every man should have about his cottage, would give him; though how seldom is it used for such purposes! In France the peasantry have commonly a pot on the fire, with a pound or more of meat in it, with cabbages, turnips, onions, and other herbs, making an excellent pottage for a numerous family. Such is not the mode of living of our peasantry, and more particularly in this part of Wales; for, from habit, they prefer butter-milk and potatoes, and butter and barley bread, to meat. I state to you, from my own knowledge, that butter is considered by the labourers here almost an essential; and that, when good meat was threepence a pound, few purchased it, paying rather a shilling a pound for butter. Whether there is a prejudice against, or a supposed degradation in the poor living upon, broth, I cannot say ; but I have seen and eaten charitable soups, which the poor have scarcely been willing to take. I cannot but think, that, by giving a man labour the year round, his time or wages would be more valuable to him than the acre of land; but for poor-houses, lunatic asylums, and prisons to have lands attached to them, Iam clearly of opinion would be a great benefit in many ways. ; I have followed a system here, whether of profit or loss I do not stop to enquire, which is as follows, and which appears to me as good a method of giving a helping hand to my labourers and poor neighbours as any I have heard of being practised : — My farm is about 230 acres, and every year I plough and prepare a large field for potato ground, inviting all to plant in it who choose. I bring their manure for them, leaving my bailiff to see fair play as to the quality and quantity they put in the rows, so that the land may be left sound and good for the wheat crop that is to follow. The peasant has but to plant the potatoes, hoe them, and keep them clean; and he is permitted to take off the entire crop without any payment whatsoever. By this arrangement he loses little or no time: the planting operation is soon performed; and when the ground is to be hoed the days are long, and the labourer can employ himself on it during after-hours, instead of going to the beer house or political shop, a rendezvous more inimical to the interests of the country and the wellbeing of the poor peasant’s family, than any thing that has been adopted for the last half century. I am not one of those who think well-intentioned people act wisely in extending education as it is now progressing. When labourers finish their master’s work, I would have them, as in times of yore, go home to their wives and children; and should like to see them save their money, instead of spending it at political clubs, or card parties, or dominoes ; or wasting their time in listening to, or reading, the publications that are laid before them, religious, or rather anti-religious, and political. I may be asked, Would you deny them luxuries and comforts, if they could afford them ? No: I would let them have their beer at home; but chattering about pro- tocols, discussing new constitutions, troubling their heads with the affairs of Europe, or reading the slander and calumnies too often heaped on the magnates of our land, I believe to have changed the nature of our peasantry, I regret to say, most materially. — H. Wales, March 8. 1832. We have never recommended any definite quantity of land to be at- tached to cottages: we are clear that no cottage ought to be without a garden of more or less extent; and this is as far as we can say that our ideas are absolute. All the extent of ground attached to a cottage, beyond such a garden as canbe cultivated during the leisure hours of the cottager, 378 London Horticultural Society and Garden. must depend on how he can make use of the produce, and on a great variety of other circumstances. In general, let the cottager have a good cottage and garden, constant work, and sufficient wages, and the rest may be left to him and his employer. Our correspondent’s mode of lending labourers prepared land for planting potatoes is good, and has long been practised in Scotland. We differ from our correspondent on the subject of education; but do not the less respect his good intentions towards the poor, so far as he has expressed them. We would no more recommend the poor man to seek his happiness in political clubs, in gambling, or in public houses, than he would; and if the labouring classes had wherewithal to be happy at home, they would be found there, in their gardens, and with their families. Edu- cation we regard as a means to this end, and to every other which is con- ducive to human happiness; and the time, we trust, will soon come, when the right to education, useful practical education, at the public expense (as in some states of America), will be acknowledged by the constitution of the country, as belonging to all. The transition state in which we now are must unquestionably lead to the political discussions deprecated by our correspondent; and the evils which it produces no one can regret more than we do: but this effect can only cease with the causes that have occasioned it; viz., ignorance on the part of the people, and mis- government on the part of their rulers. — Cond. Art. VIII. London Horticultural Society and Garden. Marcu 20. 1832.— The chairman, Dr. Henderson, announced the second part of Vol. I. of the Society’s Tranactions, new series, to be ready for delivery to the fellows. Notice was also given that the exhibition of camellias would take place on the 3d of April, and that Banksian medals would be bestowed on the best collections. Read. Considerations upon some of the more important vital functions of plants; by the Rev. Levison Vernon Harcourt. Distributed. Catalogues of the trees in Bartram’s Botanic Garden, near Philadelphia; Robert Carr, proprietor. Cuttings of the Beurré Diel, Easter Beurré, and Beurré rance, kinds of pear; and of the Reinette de Canada, and Boston russet, kinds of apple. Evhibited. Caméllia japonica rosea, from J. Allnutt, Esq. Also, from the Garden of the Society. Crocuses, Caméllia reticulata, and a hybrid azalea originated between Azalea indica and A. indica var. pheenicea. April 3.— Read. A paper on the manufacture of Indian rubber from the common garden fig tree ; by John Osborn, Esq. Another paper on the cultivation of the garden grounds at Evesham, in Worcestershire ; by Edward Rudge, Esq. Distributed. Grafts of Bequéne musqué, and Passe-Colmar, kinds of pear; and of the Golden Harvey and Dutch mignonne, kinds of apple ; and seeds of a hybrid Gladiolus. Exhibited. “Hovea ilicifolia, from Mr. H. Lowe of the Clapton Nur- sery. CAnna iridiflora, and Enkianthus quinqueflorus, from Wm. Wells, Esq. Maxillaria Harrisonie, from Edward Gray, Esq. Wax flowers, from Mr. Cornish. Acacia pubéscens, from Messrs. Rollisson. Oranges and lemons, from H. M. Dyer, Esq. A sentinel thermometer, regulated by the expansion of air acting upon a delicate mercurial balance, invented by Mr. John Lindley. Drawings of camellias, from John Allnutt, Esq. The Council having announced that there would be an award of a large silver medal and Banksian medals for the best exhibition of camellias at the Meeting of this day, collections were received from Messrs. Chandler, London Horticultural Society and Garden. 379 Loddiges, Smith, Rollisson, Wells, Allnutt, and Gray. It was decided “that Messrs. Chandler and Sons are entitled to the first prize of the large silver medal ; and that Messrs. Loddiges and Mr. Smith are entitled to the Banksian medals ;” and it was further recommended that the same medal be given to Wm. Wells, Esq. Also, from the Garden of the Society. ‘Caméllia reticulata, Justicia coccinea, Hzemanthus coccineus, dmygdalus communis var. macrocarpa, Primula verticillata, O’xalis cérnua, and a species of Eupatériam. It was announced from the chair that six lectures on botany, applied to horticulture, would; be given on the following Wednesdays, at three o'clock ; namely, May 9. 16. 23. and 30., and June 6. and 13.; and fellows desirmg tickets for ladies were requested to apply for them in writing. (See p. 380.) April 17. — Read. A description of a double range of forcing-pits, heated by hot water; by R. H. Roundell, Esq.: and a paper on the grafting of the walnut tree; by T. A. Knight, Esq. Exhibited. Very beautiful specimens of Magnolia Soulangeana, from Messrs. Brown of Slough. 100 species and varieties of Narcissus, Anemone horténsis supérba, Anemone horténsis purptrea, and the High Admiral variety of Anemone coronaria, from Mr. James Young. A new and very handsome species of Solanum, from Chiloe, from Mr. H. Low of Clapton. A small plant, with two very fine bunches of flowers, of a hybrid Rhododéndron arbéreum, Magnolia conspicua, and Wistaria Con- sequana, from Mrs. Marryat. Camellia japdnica imbricata, japénica Rossi, japonica Welbankiana, and two seedlings, from J. Allnutt, Esq. Magnolia conspicua, and twenty sorts of Cameéllia, from Mr. Richard Chandler. Fine specimens of Hunt’s Duke of Gloucester apple, and of Beurré rance or Hardenpont pear, from Thomas Hunt, Esq. A hybrid Cactus, and Caméllia Sasdnqua rosea, from the Comte de Vandes. Also, from the Garden of the Society. Four sorts of Rtbes, two sorts of Pyrus, double-flowering peach, white-flowering peach, double-flowering furze, Azalea indica phcenicea and indica alba, Erythrina herbacea, Prunus sinénsis, Hzmanthus multiflorus, yellow Chinese rose, Magnolia Soulangedna. May \.— Read. A paper on the construction of a hot-bed, to be heated by means of hot water; by W. H. Nash, Esq. A paper on the construc- tion of a perpetual hot-bed ; by John Osborn, Esq. Evhibited. A hybrid Cactus, from Walter Boyd, Esq.; raised by his gardener, Mr. Pressley. Beauméntia grandiflora, from Alderman Cope- land. rica arborea and mediterranea, from Mr. Wood, of Maresfield. Clivea nébilis, and a narrow-leaved variety of Hovea Célsi, from Messrs. Rollisson. Two sorts of litchis, from J. Reeve, Esq. Azalea sinénsis, Templetonia retusa, Erythronium luteum, and auriculas, from W. Wells, Esq. Young’s seedling apple, from Mr. James Young. A sowing-ma- chine, from Lord Vernon. Also, from the Garden of the Society. Flowers. Calceolaria bicolor and integrifolia angustifolia, Gesnéria bulbdsa and macrostachya; O’xalis flori- banda (of Lindley in the Botanical Register), O. rosea var. of others ; Prunus doméstica flore pléno, and serrulata; Amelanchier ovalis and Botry- apium ; Ribes atreum pree‘cox, aireum serdtinum, atreum sanguineum, sanguineum, céreum, and tenuiflorum; double-flowering furze, tulips. — Vegetables. Leeks, Flanders spinach, Knight’s protecting broccoli. May 15.— Exhibited. Seedling Camellias, from Mr. Wells. Tulips, from Mr. H. Groom. Lettuces, from Mr. Hunt. Erythrina Crista galli, from Mr. Mills; a fine specimen, 6 ft. high. Pzednia Moidtan rosea, trom Messrs. Chandler. Cucumber, from Mr. F. Turner, Eton College. A beautiful collection of varieties of heartsease, from Mr. James. Young. Also, from the Garden of the Society. Pzonia Moitan papaveracea, $80 London Horticultural Society and Garden. rosea, and Banksidna; Lupinus nootkaténsis, and a species from Mr. Drum- mond. Calceolaria bicolor and integrifdlia angustifolia, Prunus Capollin, Pyrus spectabilis and nivalis. Rzbes atreum serdtinum, fléridum parvi- florum, tenuiflorum, and inébrians. Halésia tetraptera macrocarpa, Rosa Banksie lutea, Wistaria Consequana, double-flowering furze, azaleas, Pit- maston seedling lilacs, Cratee‘gus oxyacanthoides, Cytisus ruthénicus and elongatus, Vélla Psetdo-Cftisus, J’ris susiana, tulips, a species of Amelan- chier from Mr. Douglas, seedling pzonies. Professor Lindley’s Lectures. — To increase the popularity of the Horti- cultural Society, and for this purpose to attract the attention of the ladies in all things, where men are concerned, the most powerful agents), the Council last year engaged Mr. Lindley to deliver three lectures on the con- nection of botany with horticulture. Being on a tour at this time last year, we had no opportunity of hearing these lectures; but this year we have heard two, and mean to attend the remainder of the course, which, we understand, is to extend to six. We must say that we have been highly gratified, not only with Mr. Lindley’s philosophic views, but with the unaffected, clear, distinct, and, in short, admirable manner, in which he delivered himself. A proof of Mr. Lindley’s success in making himself anderstood will be found in the notes which we intend to give of these lectures: those of the first, subjoined below, were written entirely from recollection, by one of his female auditors, before totally unacquainted with the subject. We sincerely hope that the Council will prevail on Mr. Lindley to enlarge these lectures, by treating of vegetable geography, and some ether matters ; and then to publish them, at such a low price as would permit them to find their way into the hands of every apprentice and eta ae gardener. The Society ought to purchase the MS. ; and then print the lectures, and sell them at cest price. — Cond. Lecture I. Relation of Botany to Horticulture; General View of the Subject; Nature of Plants; Vegetable Tissue. — Mr. Lindley began with stating that he had been induced to give a second series of lectures on the subject of botany, as connected with horticulture, because, in those which he gave last year, he had only touched on a few of the most striking points, and did not follow a regular system, as it was his intention to do at pre- sent. His ebject now was, to give his hearers a general view of the whole subject; but, in doing this, he had many difficulties to encounter: he had no elementary book to refer to, as all such that he was acquainted with either treated on betany as a science, and, of course, entered into its details more deeply than was suited to his purpose; or. related solely to the practice of horticulture, to which he meant only slightly to advert. He intended to treat of botany merely as connected with horticulture; but it was difficult to draw a line to decide how far he ought to go. Botany was generally divided inte three parts: one related to the structure of plants, another to their functions, and the third to the terms employed to designate them. The two former were intimately connected with horti- culture, as he should show hereafter; and it was even difficult to dispense with the latter, as it was scarcely possible to speak of botanical facts with- out using the terms usually applied to them. The professor, however, assured his auditors that he would endeavour to explain himself in language that would be easily understeod by all; and that he would avoid, as much as possible, entering into any minute or wearisome details. Botany ought to be studied by every horticulturist. Some horticultural operations are so dependent on a knowledge of vegetable physiology, that it is impossible fully to comprehend them without reference to that science. Among these may be reckoned the usual means of propagating plants by buds and cuttings; of procuring improved varieties by hybridising; of multiplying them by grafting; and of rendering them fertile, or of checking their excessive fecundity, by the choice of situation, or by regulating the London Horticultural Society and Garden. 381 degrees of heat, light, and air, to. which they are exposed. To know how to effect these ends, the horticulturist ought to understand something of the nature of plants generally, to be aware of their natural affinities, and to know the climates in which they are indigenous. At the same time, it is perfectly true that an excellent theorist may be unsuccessful in garden- ing, from a want of that dexterity which can only be acquired by practice ; and also that a man may be a good practical horticulturist without. know- ing any thing of botany, as he may have learned all that is necessary for the well-doing of the plants under his care empirically, from habit and experience. Knowledge founded only on experience must, however, neces- sarily be extremely limited; and it is always safer to recur to principles, which must, if sound, be applicable to every possible emergency. As a popular instance of the utility of a knowledge of the natural affini- ties of plants, to the practical horticulturist, the professor mentioned the impossibility of grafting a lilac on an apple or a currant tree, notwith- standing the apparent resemblance in shape between its flowers and those of some varieties of the latter genus; while the lilac might be grafted upon the ash: both belonging to the same natural order, and, of course, an affi- nity existing between them. No union can ever be effected by grafting one plant upon another, unless such affinity exists between them; and the vulgar notion, that it is possible to produce a black rose by grafting a rose on a black currant, Mr. Lindley assured his auditors he considered. almost too ridiculous to be mentioned. He added that hybridismg was subject to the same laws and limitations as grafting. With regard to the import- ance of a knowledge of the natural climates and habits of plants, the pro- fessor mentioned the fact, that some plants were fertile only on a north wall, while others required the south; that some would not live in iron hot-houses, while others grew more vigorously in such a situation than in others; and that these results might have been confidently anticipated, before the experiment was tried, by any one acquainted with the habits of the plants referred to. Having thus demonstrated the importance of at least a slight know- ledge of the principles of botany to the practical horticulturist, Mr. Lindley proceeded to take a general view of those principles; and began by considering the nature of plants. All vegetable substances consist of an immense number of atoms, or small parts, held together by the principle of adhesion, and called by the general name of tissue. This tissue is of three kinds: cellular, fibrous, and vascular. Cellular tissue is composed of a great number of small cells or bladders, each formed of a thin imperforate membrane, through which, however, the sap contrives to circulate by means of invisible pores. These cells are of various shapes, and are characterised by their facility in breaking, or brittleness. Numerous vegetable substances are composed entirely of cellular tissue, but others only partially : as an instance of the first, the professor mentioned the fungus which, by Captain Ross and his companions, has been termed red snow. Cellular tissue forms the pith, or medullary substance, of trees, the flesh of fruits, &c. &c. To exemplify the brittleness of cellular tissue, Mr. Lindley exhibited a specimen of Chinese rice paper, made from the medullary substance of the Zschynémene paluddsa Roxb, [See Gard. Mag., vol. v. p. 309.] Fibrous tissue is composed of a number of hollow. tubes, tapering at both ends, each not more than the twelve-hundredth part of. an inch in diameter, and yet having the vacancy in the centre much larger than the sides. The albumen and inner bark of trees are formed of this substance; the toughness of which the professor illustrated by exhibiting a piece of Russian bast mat, made of the inner bark of the lime. Vascular tissue comprehends the spiral vessels and cylindrical ducts, for conveying air and sap. Plants are provided with roots, stems, leaf-buds, leaves, flowers, fruit, and seed; all performing important, though distinct, functions, and all 382 London Horticultural Society and Garden. more or less essential to the process of vegetation. Roots are of various kinds and shapes ; but their use is always the same, viz. to extract mois- ture from the ground, and to serve as a channel for conveying it to other parts of the plant, where it is afterwards converted into sap. Roots, properly so called, can seldom be propagated by division; and when bulbs produce offsets, each is complete in itself, and not a part of the old root. The mere circumstance of part of a plant being buried in the earth does not make it aroot. The tubers of potatoes, for example, partake more of the nature of branches than roots, producing buds or eyes, each of which is capable of forming a perfect plant; and bearing to be divided without destroying the vital principle, which ordinary roots will not. Stems or trunks are highly important, both as being the channels to convey nourishment to the leaves, flowers, and fruit, and as being, in trees, the part convertible into timber for the purposes of profit. Leaf-buds (so called to distinguish them from flower-buds) in trees are, in fact, trees in embryo, and afford the only certain means of multiplying varieties. The brown scales that envelope these buds, when they first burst from the tree, are diminished and imperfect leaves of the preceding season’s formation, and generally drop off as soon as the inner leaves expand. Leaves may be called the lungs of plants, as through them the sap is exposed to the influence of the atmospheric air. They are furnished with pores, which can imbibe nourish- ment as well as throw off superfluous moisture. Petals are coloured leaves, useful for protecting the parts necessary for the fructification of seed. There is no essential difference, in the eye of the botanist, between the calyx and the corolla. Every flower is provided with one or more- threads or filaments, called stamens; each of which is loaded with a case, or anther, containing a kind of dust called the pollen. This powder, which is necessary to the fecundation of seeds, is conveyed to the seed-vessel (a thick cell or protuberance containing the seed, and growing in the centre: of the flower) by means of a tube-shaped body that usually surrounds it, called the style; the stigma or head of which is the only part about the whole plant which is not covered with a membrane, and which, conse- quently, admits the free passage of the pollen. Plants having only stamens are called males, and those having only styles female; while the majo- rity of plants, possessing both, are called bisexual. This system was deve- loped by Linnzeus. Varieties of plants cannot be propagated unvaryingly by seed; as every plant thus raised is a distinct individual, often differing considerably from the parent plant. Double-blossomed plants very seldom bear seed; and Mr. Lindley mentioned the double-blossomed cherry, as an instance of a plant which could only be propagated by cuttings. Some exceptions, however, occur to this rule. Mr. Lindley concluded his ob- servations on the sexes of plants by quoting some verses from Dr. Darwin. The sap is the nourishment of plants. Various theories have been broached respecting its circulation, which Mr. Lindley promised to explain in a future lecture. It is formed from aqueous particles imbibed by the root, and forced up the stem to the leaves ; where it acquires an additional portion of oxygen from the atmospheric air, and returns to the root, imparting nourishment to all the different parts of the tree in its progress. It rises in the spring, and sinks in the winter: during this season, plants are gene- rally in a dormant state. Contrary to what might be expected, the sap appears first in motion at the extremity of the branch. Air, light, and heat are indispensable to plants ; and, according as one or more of these important agents are deficient, the plant is imperfect. If there were not encugh light, the plant would not attain its proper colour ; and without a due proportion of air and warmth, fruit would be deficient both in flavour and appearance. In conclusion, Mr. Lindley quoted a passage from ‘‘ an elegant and enlightened author,” remarking on the constant change which pervades all nature; and that all things after.death sink into cor- ruption, only to rise again in new forms of beauty and vigour, — J. WV’. L. Covent Garden Market. 383 Art. IX. Covent Garden Market. ‘ From To From To - pe oe Tribe. Le aS Bak ae a di£ s. d, abbages, per dozen: er half sieve 61/0 2 0 White - |0 0 9{0 1 6]|| Small Salads f ee pannelie02\|(0" 0-3 * Plants, or Coleworts 0 2 0] 0 3 O}} Watercress, per dozen small Cauliflowers, per dozen - | 0 6 0012 O bunches - S --1006/000 Broccoli, per bunch ; Burnet, per bunch OG 001/00 0 White - - - |0 1 0/90 2 0 Purple My AY 010/016 Pot and Sweet Herbs. Parsley, per halfsieve - |9 1 6|0 2 6 Leg: HES Tarragon,per dozenbunches| 0 3 Q2|0 0 OU Peas, per half sieve - | 3 0 0]! Fennel, per dozen bunches |0 2 0/0 3 0 Kidneybeans, forced, per Thyme, per dozen bunches| 0 2 0|0 0-0 hundred - - |0 2 0 6 || Sage, dried, per dozen bun.| 0 1 0/0 0 0 Mint, per dozen bunches -| 0 1 6/0 2 0 Tubers and Roots. Peppermint, dried, per doz. perton | 310 0/75 0 0 bunches 5 - |0 16/0 8 0 Potatoes - ¥ per ewt. | 0 3 6]0 5 O|/ Marjoram, dried, per dozen per bush.|} 0 2 0/0 2 6 bunches = 5 010/000 1 Kidney, perbushel - {0 2 0}0 2 6]! Savory, dried, per doz. bun.| 9 1 0/0 0 O Scotch,’per bushel - |0 2 6}|0 O O|| Basil, dried, perdoz.bun. | 0 1 0/0 0 0 New, per pound - - |0 0 6|0 1 6}! Rosemary, per doz. bunches} 0 5 0/0 0 Q Jerusalem Artichokes, per Lavender, dried, per dozen |_ half sieve - - 010;0 16 bunches Sy ie L _0 40/0 00 Turnips, White, per bunch} 0 1 0) 0 1 6/) qansy, per dozen bunches |0 1 0/0 0 0 Carrots : Old, per bushel — - S 0 50)]0 6 O}| Stalks and Fruzts for Tarts, Young, per bunch - |009}]0 1 0 Pickling, $c. Horn, per bunch - |0 1 0}]0 1 5)) Rbubarb Stalks, per bundle} 0 0 6] 0 0 Red Beet, per dozen - |0 1 0; 0 1 6]! Angelica Stalks, per pound| 0 0 0/0 0 6 Horseradish, per bundle- |0 3 6{0 5 0 Edi A , Radishes: ‘dible Fungi and Fuci. er dozen hands (24 Mushrooms, per pottle - 010/016 _ Red we to30each) - |0%0 4]0 O 6]| Morels, per pound - |014 0/0 00 White Turnip, per bunch | 0 0 1] 0 O O)}) Truffles, per pound: 3 : English a 5 - 012 0;0 00 The Spinach Tribe. A ae Foreign z {1014 010 0 0 . er sieve - |0 6 § Spinach f Te half sieve- |0 0 0/0 0 6 Fruits. Sorrel, per half sieve - | 0 1 0{0 1 6]| Apples, Dessert,per bushel : f ; Reinette grise - - |1 00/910 0 The Onion Tribe. Apples, Baking, per bushel| 0 8 0/1 0 O Onions, Old, per bushel - | 0 6 0| 90 7 O|| Peaches, per dozen - |2 2 0/0 0 0 Green (Ciboules), p.bunc.| 0 0 4{]0 0 6/]] Almonds, per peck - |0 701000 Leeks, per dozen bunches 0 1 6|0 2 0}! Gooseberries, per half sieve) 0 5 0/0 6 0 Chives, per dozen roots - OROMOs ROM 0 Strawberries (forced), peroz.| 0 0 6/0 1 0 Garlic, per pound - - |0 0 0] 0 1 OJ} Pine-apples, perpound - |0 6 0| 014 0 Shallots, perpound - - |0 0 0j| 0 1 O|| Hot-house Grapes, per Ib. | 0 5 01012 0 : Cucumbers, frame, p. brace | 0 1.0/0 2 6 Asparaginous Plants, Ores perdozen - |0 0 9/0 3 0 Salads, §c. Be ee hundred 0 ; 0/10 0 Asparagus, per hundred: perdozen - | 0 910 2 0 Taree iS o - |0 5 0/0 6 O Lemons eee hundred 0 4 0/016 0 Middling Ss - |0 3 0]0 4 O/|} Sweet Almonds, per pound|0 2 6/0 3 0 Small = - - - - |0 1 6/0 2 61} Nuts, per peck : Lettuce, per score : Spanish i - - 1/075 01/000 Cos - 5s i@ a 610 8 © Barcelona - - 10 60/000 Cabbage - - |0 0 4/0 0 6 Brazil, per bushel - - | 014 0/016 0 Celery, per bundle (12to15)}0 0 9;0 1 6 Observations. — I have delayed sending the list some days, in conse- quence of the lateness of the season, from which circumstance the prices of many of the leading articles have not been sufficiently settled to enable me to determine their range ; consequently, those attached to. the list must be considered as for the last few days only. Asparagus, which at this season is generally a leading article, has, as yet, been furnished in very small quantities, and by no means of good quality; the absence of solar heat, and the prevalence of cold winds and frosty nights, have pre- vented it from coming to size, colour, or flavour. Peas are as yet only spoken of, only two half sieves on Saturday in the market ; consequently, the price attached to that article in the list must be considered as exclu- sively confined to the day ; but, as the season is likely to be still further retarded by the continued prevalence of northerly and easterly winds, no supply can be immediately looked for, and, as it is an article im demand, good prices may be confidently anticipated. Cauliflowers begin to be brought rather freely for the season : as yet they have been small, and not 384 Obituary. very good; the stock in growth is said to be small, the supply through the season will necessarily be limited, and may realise good prices. Cab- bages of excellent quality have been in good supply, at moderate prices. Broccolies have been very abundant, and of good quality, owing to the mildness of the winter, the frost never having materially affected the growth : the varieties principally furnished have been of the later sorts; and perhaps in no other instance does the improvement in gardening become more apparent, than in the sorts of late broccolies now produced, almost each individual gardener having a good variety of his own growth. Rhubarb, which has for some years past been largely cultivated, is still a subject of increasing interest, and more extensively in demand than ever: on the 5th May no less than eight entire waggon loads packed in bulk, with an equal quantity in smaller proportions, were brought in and sold in this market alone: one cultivator, Mr. Myatt, of New Cross, Deptford, had three waggon loads ; he has, I believe, nearly twenty acres in culture. Of broccoli, on the same day, were sent five waggon loads, and of broccoli sprouts three waggon loads. Gooseberries are now coming in abundantly, the crop said to be good; and, from the extensive breadth under culture, a_very full supply may be expected : the prices of these and other ordinaryruits will, of course, be moderate, but the quantity will compensate the growers, who have for the last two seasons suffered severe loss, from short crops of fruit, middling prices, and the general depression arising from many other causes. Strawberries (forced) have been very plentiful and excellent. Grapes are now coming more freely to market, as yet they have been in short supply, and in very limited demand. Our stock of apples is now confined to some fifty or a hundred barrels of reinettes grises, the holders of which keep them at a high price ; the con- sequence of which is, they are in little demand, although we have little prospect of early fruit to supersede the use of them. The stock of winter onions is almost quite exhausted, hitherto it was customary to keep over a supply until Midsummer ; but, in consequence of the introduction. of earlier spring varieties of onions, the practice is discontinued; more par- ticularly as the prices lately obtained would not warrant holding*over any quantity. r Potatoes, the still leading article of supply in the metropolis, have been very low in price since Christmas; so much so, that the growers in the distant districts have given up sending them; in consequence of which the stock on hand is very short, and, as the spring is very backward, no immediate supply can be expected. A rapid and considerable rise in value has taken place, particularly in Scotch reds, which, during one week, rose 25s. per ton. —G.C, May 21. 1832. ArT. X. Obituary. Diep, March 21., Mr. Archibald M‘ Naughton, formerly of Hackney, but, at the time of his death, residing with some relations of his wife, in the parish of Monigill, in Perthshire. Mr. M‘Naughton was an occasional contributor to this Magazine, and the author of the Life of a Jobbing Gar- dener, which appeared in our First Number. (Vol. I. p. 24.) A copy of his will has been sent us, together with a number of papers, which we have not yet had time to examine. Died, April 7., at his residence in the New Road, Mr. Jenkins, of the Marylebone and Regent’s Park Nurseries. He was a man of the greatest industry and perseverance ; and, beginning with nothing, he accumulated considerable property. Some account of his life is promised us for our next Number. THE GARDENER’S MAGAZINE, AUGUST, 1832. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. Art. I. . General Results of a Gardening Tour, during July, August, and part of September, in the Year 1831, from Dum- Sries, by Kirkcudbright, Ayr, and Greenock, to Paisley. By the CONDUCTOR. (Continued from p. 266.) From the subject of cottages, the transition to that of towns and villages is easy and natural; but we shall enter no farther into it, than to supply a few materials for thinking to head- gardeners, and young men who aspire to (what in these transition times, every young gardener ought to aim at) the general management of a demesne, or of a landed estate. The towns and villages in the west of Scotland have par- taken of the general improvement of the country, and more particularly the seaports, and the manufacturing districts of Kilmarnock, Paisley, and Catrine. ‘The most stupendous public work which we have witnessed, in any of the places alluded to, is what is called Shaw’s Waterworks, the con- trivance of that most inventive engineer, Mr. Thom of Rothsay. Greenock is situated at the bottom of a sloping hill or ridge, the top of which is upwards of 500 ft. above the level of the Clyde. To the top of this ridge Mr. Thom has conducted, along the summits of other ridges, from a distance of six miles, a copious supply of water, not only for all the ordinary pur- poses of the town, but for driving machinery. ‘The water is collected into reservoirs, at the distance of several miles from Vou. VIII. — No. 39, (oi 386 General Results of a Gardening Tour :— 3) oR Cee meee & ee sk en ps aces Greenock; and each of these reservoirs is capa- ble of containing a sup- ply for the consumption of the inhabitants, for more than six months; ‘so that not only the surplus waters of one wet season may be re- tained for supplying the dry season of the same year, but the surplus of several wet years may be stored up to supply a drought of several years’ duration, should such ever occur.” ‘The water is brought to the summit of the hill in such a quantity as to supply 1200 cubic feet per minute, which Mr. Thom estimates, on a fall of 30 ft., as equal to a Bolton and Watt’s steam-engine of fifty- horse power. In what manner the water is ap- plied in succession to the mills, will be easily understood by the in- spection of jig. 63., which is an imaginary section from the summit of the hill (a), through all the water-wheels, to high watermark on the Clyde (4). The line of wheels dotted, shows that there are two series of situations for mills. The same aqueduct sup- plies water for the in- habitants at the rate of 2 cubic feet per head per day. Shaws Waterworks, Sewerage. 387 The filtration of this water is effected in 3 filters, invented by Mr. Thom, which are thus formed: — “ Each filter is 50 ft. long, 12 ft. wide, and 8 ft. deep. ‘The water is made to percolate through them, either upwards or downwards, at pleasure. When it percolates downwards, and the supply of filtered water becomes sensibly less (which, after some time, must happen to every filter, by the lodgement of sediment), then, by shutting one sluice and opening another, the water is made to pass upwards with considerable force, and, carrying the sediment along with it, to fall into a waste drain made for that purpose. When the lodged sediment is thus removed, and the water begins to run clear, the direction of the sluices is again changed, and the filter operates as before.” Among the most ingenious arrangements connected with these works are, the self-acting sluices to the different reser- voirs, by which both the reception and the delivery of water are regulated to the greatest nicety, with a view to the most rigid economy of the fluid; but it would be deviating too far from the direct objects of our work to describe them. * What has been effected by Mr. Thom should encourage gardeners, and others connected with the improvement of landed pro- perty, never to think any end, which is at all desirable and possible, too difficult of attainment. The system of drainage, or sewerage, in these towns, is as bad as in most English ones. All towns situated on rivers or streams drain into them, instead of into main sewers con- structed parallel to their sides. ‘This is a most important point in the system of town arrangement; and though it has been utterly neglected in the case of London, and the waters of the Thames have become, in consequence, unfit for use, yet this ought rather to have served as a warning beacon for provincial towns, than as an object of imitation. ‘The omis- sion of such sewers in Scottish towns is the more remarkable, as the inhabitants are fully aware of the value of liquid manure, a great quantity of which might be thus saved from waste. If the evil be not checked speedily, it will be found a very serious nuisance at no distant period, when, in addi- tion to contaminating the air, it has polluted the only waters accessible to the poor. To render these sewers efficient for all the purposes for which they are calculated, they should be commenced farther up the river, and be continued farther down its banks, than * We have sent the pamphlet (A brief Account of Shaw’s Water Scheme, &c., Greenock, 8vo, pp. 88., 1829), in which these works are described, to the editor of the Mechanic's Magazine, in whose most valuable and widely cir- culated work they will probably be recorded for the benefit of engineers. cc 2 388 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — the town reaches; and their lower extremities should deliver their contents into a pond, for evaporation, at least a mile from the town. In many situations, instead of evaporating the water in the pond, it might be employed, as it comes from the town, to irrigate adjoining grass lands, or pumped up into water-carts, to be used, in various ways, as liquid manure. In some cases, it might be worth while to erect a small steam- engine and scoop-wheel, like those in the fenny districts, for the purpose of raising the comparatively thinner waters of the sewer to an elevated channel, which channel might convey them to a distance, for the purpose of irrigation. By having two ponds for the deposit, the dense mud of the one pond would be drying, while the other pond was filling and the mud being deposited, as in the case of the ponds near Paris employed in evaporating the material which forms the pou- drette. Were a sewer of the description alluded to carried down the London and Southwark sides of the Thames, at a short distance from its banks, going on a level round the docks, and under the canals, &c., the quantity of most valuable manure that might be deposited on the meadows of Essex, and the shorelands of Kent, almost exceeds calculation. The water of the Thames, being thus left pure, might be pumped up by steam-engines, for the supply of the metropolis. ‘This is an arrangement that must sooner or later be adopted, even in London, and in all old towns; and it ought to be one of the first objects of attention, in forming new congregations of houses, in every part of the world. A second nuisance in Scotch towns arises from the absence of certain conveniences to which we alluded in our preceding article (p. 265.), as being generally wanting in cottages. It is difficult for a stranger to the suburbs of the towns of Scot- land to imagine the state in which he will find the banks of the Nith, within watermark, at Dumfries; those of the Clyde, at Greenock; and the seashore, at Ayr. ‘The latter town has just completed a very handsome spire to the town-hall from the design of an architect of great taste, Mr. Hamil- ton of Edinburgh; and the inhabitants are now occupied in rebuilding Wallace ‘Tower, and placing in it a gigantic statue of Wallace, by the celebrated sculptor Thom. Surely, therefore, they might spare funds for public water-closets, so much wanted, of which we here suggest two forms (/gs. 64. and 65. and jigs. 66, 67, and 68.). ‘The former would be a good substitute for the hovel on the quay at Greenock. The contents of the tanks of these buildings might be drawn off by one of Shalder’s pumps, placed at some distance from them, and connected by a drain. At Ayr, these contents Public Water- Closets; Churchyards. 389 might be conveyed in deep close carts, and, at Greenock, in steam-boats, to the farmers. For details on this subject see Lincye. of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Architecture, § 37, 38, and 39. @ aT [ace ee ae LAN i ft. 10 5 0 10 20 ft. a, a, a, ad, Aquariums. ‘ é, Cistern of water, which, by means of a contrivance connected with the door of each closet, supplies a jet of water to the basin, every time the door is opened, and every time it is shut. With the increase of population in these towns the churche yards have necessarily become too small; and this, we trust, will, at no distant period, lead to general cemeteries, which may, at the same time, be rendered very ornamental. The churchyards of the villages and country parishes are also almost every where too small ; and, as the author of Necropolis Glasguensis (Glasgow, 8vo, 1831) observes, they are generally in a neglected state. We regret that the resident clergy do not seem to partake in our views on this subject; otherwise they might do much, with very little trouble or expense: for we are sure there is no gardener or nurseryman who would not supply such trees as might be wanting, and even plant them ; and the expense of mowing the grass, if the parish could not afford it, we doubt not would be volunteered by the resident ploughmen or other workmen belonging to the parish. A little smoothing of the rougher parts of the sur- cc 3 390 General Results of a Gardening Tour : — ft. 10 5 0 a0) 20 ft. RE ! ete ee is c, Cistern of water. d, Lines to plugs of supply, acting by the opening and shutting of the doors. e, Tank. Js Ventilating drains. g, Veranda. h, Inclined plane: Churchyards, Villages. $91 face ; a walk, or walks, judiciously led round and through the area, and neatly gravelled or paved; and a few trees and shrubs, by no means two of a sort in the same churchyard, are all that is wanting. We are justified by the general cha- racter of gardeners for liberality and patriotism, independently of what they did in the case of Burns’s monuments at Dum- fries, and at Kirk Alloway, and in Kirk Alloway churchyard, in concluding that these articles and labours would be readily supplied by them; and masons, we are certain, would not less willingly assist in repairing the walls or tombs; and road- makers in bringing in gravel, or in Macadamising or paving the walks. The editor of the Scotsman observes (29th of June, 1831) that the neglected state of the churchyards in Scotland is a disgrace to the country ; and we agree with him in thinking that this originates chiefly in the ‘ deficiency of sentiment which belongs to the national character.” We would there- fore strongly recommend the improvement of churchyards, for the sake of cultivating a feeling, in which it is thus publicly acknowledged by a Scotsman, that (we) his countrymen are deficient. The villages are proportionately defective with the towns; but there are still evidences of improvement. That of Dal- beattie, ornamented as it is with its chapel of St. Peter’s, and its fine garden, bears a slight resemblance to an English vil- lage. Catrine is decidedly the most regular in all its arrange- ments, and the cleanest. ‘There are in this village four libraries, a school, and two chapels, independently of the parish church, supported entirely by the villagers. The ma- nufactory of Mr. Buchanan, here, is a grand and admirably regulated establishment; and the overshot water-wheel, 40 ft. in diameter, constructed of cast-iron buckets, with wrought- iron rods as arms, and, like Jones’s patent carriage-wheels (Lncy. of Agr., 2d edit., § 2749. fig. 382.), acting on the suspen- sion principle, is alone worth going many miles to see. The most prosperous villages are those on the Clyde, of which Largs may be given as an example; but, as the inhabit- ants are chiefly men of property, who have retired from busi- ness, it cannot be classed with Catrine, Dalbeattie, and other agricultural or manufacturing places. The great deficiencies in the Scotch villages, when compared with the English ones, are, the want of general cleanliness in the streets and houses, and the want of flowers and of flowering shrubs in the gardens. To these points, and especially the first, all that have any influence ought to direct their attention. (To be continued.) . co 4 392 Horticultural Tour in the Netherlands. Art. Il. Extracts from Notes made during a Horticultural Tour in the Netherlands, and Part of France, in June and July, 1830. By Mr. T. Rivers, Jun. (Continued from Vol. VIL. p. 279.) Mr. Cuantreit, the English gentleman whom I men- tioned, in my last, as being married to a Flemish lady, and having a country seat at St. Croix, near Bruges, I found a most agreeable companion, and an enthusiastic horticulturist. He is indefatigable in the culture of the species of Hrica, and, having to contend with a soil rather inimical to that interest- ing family, deserves great credit for his pretty collection, selected from the nurseries round London, to which place he makes annually a horticultural visit. His mansion, he in- formed me, was formerly the residence of a bishop, and with the grounds, it forms a perfect specimen of a Flemish country residence, surrounded by a moat of clear, dark, stagnant water, with long straight avenues diverging from the house, like the rays of a circle. The grounds are quite flat, and the paths a soft black sand; but these soft paths and shady ave- nues, though so completely at variance with my English would-be-picturesque ideas, felt most exceedingly agreeable in a sultry July day; and as the Flemings, from the nature of. a great part of their country, must have tame gardens, I ad- mire their solid taste in consulting their comfort more than their eyes. A Flemish country house is also, it must be ob- served, merely a summer residence, as the inhabitants lock up the doors at the end of September, and, leaving their fur=. niture, &c., to its fate, without the protection of even a single servant (a fact which certainly gives a very favourable idea of the honesty of the Belgians), resort to the town till the heat in spring reminds them of their cool avenues. Mr. Chantrell is generally fortunate in gaining prizes from the Horticultural Society of Bruges. In June, 1830, the prin¢ cipal prize was awarded to him for Zrica refléxa alba, a fine specimen, and honourable mention was made of Dryandra ner- vosa, Alstroemérza pulchélla, Jatropha pandureefolia, Ery- thrina Jaurifdlia. ‘These specimens I saw, and admired their superior growth. In the grounds was a pole, perhaps 25 ft. high, closely covered with the twining stems of the Aristolochia sipho, which formed the most beautiful verdant column I ever beheld. In the kitchen-gardens, the pear trees were, as usual here, flourishing; but the apples were sadly cankered and unhealthy; lettuces, in successive crops, were the prin- cipal vegetables; the cabbage tribe did not flourish, especially the cauliflower, which will not head in this neighbourhood. Horticultural Tour in the Netherlands. 893 In the afternoon we visited the garden of the Comtesse de Carnen, at Nalde. No place could be more at variance with the taste of an English gardener; the orange trees and green-house plants were placed in straight single lines in a square, enclosed with tall thin edges, each plant fastened by the stem to a small painted rail, and all trained with naked stems as standards. ‘The effect was curious, and it did really seem quite ridiculous to see the poor myrtles, laurustinuses, bays, pomegranates, oleanders, arbutuses, and aucubas, with numerous oranges, looking more like mops than plants, with some of the stems of the myrtles not larger than a reed, and from 4 ft. to 6 ft. high ; the heads of all being cut as round as a ball. The gardener appeared to think them the summit of perfection, and his eyes glistened at the praises which I gave him for the ingenuity and perseverance he had displayed ; but when I explained to him, that with us they would all have been left in a state of nature, which we thought most orna- mental, he shook his head most significantly, and seemed to pity us for having no taste. Common thyme is used here extensively as an edging for the borders, and the gardener said that it was the only aromatic’ herb known, or in use, in this part of Flanders. French cookery being general here, I was surprised at the dearth of what we call potherbs; but salad seems to be the staple article of vegetable food, for both rich and poor eat it most abundantly with every meal they take. The orange trees were for sale, and the gardener gave me the prices of some; for plants about 3 ft. he asked 15s. each, and standards about 5 ft. were 20s. each. ‘The heads of these trees, however, had been so carefully formed into the ball-like shape, that, in England, they would have been ridi- culous.. A very high value was set on the large trees. ‘The taste for orange trees is much more general in Flanders than in England. ‘They were all in the finest health, but were grown in a compost that would puzzle an English cultivator, viz. black, moist, soft, peaty soil, mixed with cow dung and sheep dung in equal quantities. A taste for rare and good plants is here generally diffused, and, I believe, it extends all over Flanders, as they have their societies and “ expositions” at Bruges, Louvain, Courtrai, Brussels, Ghent, and every town of any importance in the country. ‘The number of exhibitors here (Bruges), the last ‘‘ exposition d’été” [summer show], which took place in June, was upwards of 100, and at Ghent it was nearly 300; almost all exhibited some good or rare plants. ‘These facts more than any thing will show the diffusion of a refined taste for 394 Horticultural Tour in the Netherlands. horticultural productions ; for in which of our cities, with the population of Ghent (80,000 to 90,000), shall we find 300. plant amateurs? At the Aigle d’Or [Golden Eagle] at Bruges, in a small garden not 60 ft. square, was the finest double Althzea frutex I ever saw, forming quite a tree; also a fine Salisburza adiantifolia; Cléthra arborea variegata, Acer pal- mata, and numerous oranges: these, with many other rare plants, were arranged very prettily in the gardens, for the customers to admire while smoking their cigars; the landlord seemed quite aware of their value, and appeared to have a great taste for plants. To English gardeners, who are used to see evergreens in such profusion and perfection at home, it appears strange to find large bays and laurustinuses in tubs, and as carefully attended to as oranges. ‘The want of our best evergreens, such as the above, and common and Portugal laurels, in the gardens and pleasure grounds of this country, is much felt by an English eye. It seems that the winters are too dry and sharp for them, and the soil too loose, being much like our sandy peat. Walking in one of the streets of Bruges, I saw, through an open window, what appeared to be a very pretty garden in the heart of the city, and, upon enquiry, I found that it be- longed to an opulent brewer, M. Buschaert. I obtained an introduction to him, and, as “ un fleuriste Anglais,” was most politely received. I was highly gratified with finding one of the sweetest town gardens possible to conceive, with serpentine walks and glades, and thickly planted with shrubs and trees, many of them rare. The effect was delightful and striking, and it was increased by my having but a moment before turned from the frequented streets of a populous city. Among his hardy trees, M. Buschaert pointed with evident pride to a beautiful specimen of the rare Fagus cristata, and to one of the Populus grandidentatus: a clump of hybrid azaleas seemed also to have his especial care, and his favourite varie- ties were named Ne plus ultra, Morterii Genio, Tricolor Jacobs, Morteriana, Regina Belgica, &c. &c. He had also some rare stove plants, and an extensive collection of pears en quenouille ; all in the best order, and the place gene- rally as neat as possible. I should think (from memory) between two or three acres were occupied by these gardens and a small orchard; but so surrounded by houses, that, had I not seen the garden through the open window, I should not have imagined such a place existed. I next visited a pear amateur, M. Boukhout, and perhaps never felt more amused with an enthusiast. Numerous stocks were grafted (in the cleft manner) with new varieties for trial. Horticultural Tour in the Netherlands. 395 One that he called the lion, but which seemed to be the poire milon, or melon pear, he told me, with all the lively gestures of a Frenchman, was “ trés-grande,” trés-superbe,” %* trés-déli- cieuse ;” in short, that it was “ the devil of a pear.” I nar- rowly scrutinised the shoots of this “ povre fameuse,” and felt a strong conviction that it was the pear known in England as Uvedale’s St. Germain, or pound pear, recorded in your pages as being sometimes of great weight. I may here re- mark, that I am now exceedingly sceptical when I hear our Continental neighbours give descriptions of fruits or plants ; experience has told me that what to their warm imaginations seems so grand and beautiful, to our business-like ideas assumes quite a different aspect. In the neighbourhood of a city like Bruges, with a popu- lation of 40,000 inhabitants, we should suppose that, at least, one nursery would be found; but nothing of the kind exists, and the few plants exposed in the flower-market (préfectoire) are supplied by the small gardeners. ‘Trees are cultivated in different gardens by amateurs*, and sold to help to pay the gardening expenses: economy is the order of the day ; and an Englishman, unless an eyewitness, can scarcely form an idea to how great an extent it is practised. Mr. Chantrell, to give me a thorough view of rural affairs, took me to spend a day with one of his tenants, who held a farm of 200 acres, and which, as all the Flemish farms are very small, was equivalent to a 500-acres farm of good land in England. ‘The tenant, indeed, ranked as a large farmer; but the contrast between his mode of living and that of an English farmer of the same class was so striking, that, at the risk of being tedious, I will give you a short descrip= tion. order to make the most’ of theni in point: of. profit eee the first twenty years of their growth, ‘and ‘of’ both’ ‘profit and beauty afterwards.* This fen when: considered” inthe abstract, seems almost incredible; nevertheless, it cannot be denied, though in many cases it would seem difficult)'t6 assign a reason. An opinion that plantations cannot’ ‘afford profit for many years after planting; ignorance of what'is required ; indifference on the subject; and a general dislike to cutting down trees, whether young or ole, aré ‘reasons which very generally prevail. The last is carried to an extent which may be considered a diseased feeling; and’ is, in! ottr opinion, most ridiculous. In Ayrshire, we found very exten sive plantations, of from five to thirty years’ growth, ‘on oie nobleman’s estate, from which not a tree has been thinned since they were planted at the rate of five thousand plants ‘to the acre. The mass has become impervious to either man or cattle; and, as timber or fuel, it would not, if now ‘cut down, as the very intelligent gardener on the estate informed us, pay the cost of the trees, nearly four times the price, thirty years ago, that they are now, before they were removed from the nursery. On another nobleman’s estate, in the saine country, we found oaks in more than double the above num- _ ber per acre, which, we were informed, it was never intended to thin, but to leave to grow up together, and choke and kill one another, in imitation of nature. We have no objection to this plan, provided it be not recommended as good, with a view to profit. A plantation composed of trees’ all planted or sown at the same time, can never be said to be a just imi- tation of a'state of nature. In natural woods we find trees ‘of all ages ; ; and hence, the ease with which the stronger over- come the weaker, and ‘acquire a timber ‘size; but’ where “all are’ sown or planted at once, and at equal distances, all are 2 We safy Be ofit: and beauty, Risen dé: beens after; trees have aitained a timber height, much of their beanty,. when collected in masses, | depends ‘on each tree ‘having room sufficient. to show the character of its head. Hence 4’ wood; consistiiig of ‘trees Singly and'in small! groups} with: aindeér- wood beneath iis almost always more beautiful than acgrove consisting of frees only 3; because,|in the latter case, the trees genetallYo: eyen inthe best~ managed groyes,. stand, too thick. , { 33% hardy 9: re 518 General Results of a Gartening Tour : — generally contending for what none can attain without the assistance of art, and the whole grow up together in a mass of etiolated rods, with only here and there a tree to be found which has attained a timber-like size. The only case in which ‘this result does not take place, in an extreme degree, is when different genera of trees have been planted in mixture: in which case those of the most vigorous habits and rapid growth will overcome the others. - As contrasts to the plantations on the two estates men- tioned, we may refer to those of Monkwood, near Ayr, in which ‘the trees (each judiciously pruned so as to form a handsome stem, more or less clothed from the ground upwards) stand ‘at proper distances; and the thinnings, as Mr. Smith of the ‘Monkwood Nursery informed us, have more than paid acorn rent, reckoning from the time the plantation was made. We may also refer to one or two others in Dumfries and Kirkeud- bright shires, and especially to those at Closeburn and Ter- ragles, as being profitably managed ; though, in the latter case, and as, indeed, in most others that we saw, the trees are too ‘closely pruned. The publication of Sir Henry Steuart’s Planter’s Guide has given a considerable stimulus to the transplanting of large trees; viz., trees of from fifteen to thirty years’ growth, and from 20 to 40 ft. high. We could not help noticing the practice of some proprietors, who, while they neglected their young plantations, or managed them improperly, could yet afford to expend time and money in transplanting large trees ; which is about in as good taste and judgment, as if a man were to commence ornamenting the walls of his house before he had roofed it in. We have seen some parks in Dumfries and Kirkcudbright shires, and we could mention one in Ayrshire, recently sprinkled over with trees, in imitation of Sir Henry Steuart’s manner, in superlatively bad taste. We recollect only one instance in which an attempt was made to group the trees, and to add shrubs to them; but the individuals composing these groups were placed too far apart, and the effect, in consequence, was in a great measure lost. Lidgings of Walks. —'The faults which we have been obliged ‘to find with the edgings of walks, in former articles (Vol. VII. ‘p. 404. 546.), are less frequent in that part of Scotland which ‘we passed through, than they are in England; partly, we be- ‘lieve, from there being less labour to spare for the walks; but ‘partly also from gardeners being fully aware that the harsh -edgings, which we complain of, are deformities. Hoeing and raking, which among growing crops may certainly be consi- “dered beauties, because they are presumptive evidences of good culture; we found by some gardeners considered beau- Edgings, Grass Lawns, Kitchen-gardens. 519 tiful when applied to gravel walks ; but on this subject we need only refer to what we have said before. (Vol. VII. p. 544.) Grass Lawns.— We observed very tew lawns in Scotland that were mown often enough to produce a very fine velvet turf; a circumstance easily accounted for, from the absence of the proprietors, and the slender means left to keep their seats in order. More or less of lawn with smooth turf, and of walks covered with a fine, compact, and bright-coloured gravel, are, with us, essential to the luxury of every country house. When the recently invented mowing machine, which we are happy to find is coming generally into use throughout England (p. 34.), becomes general in Scotland, we may, how- ever, hope that lawns will be kept as we could wish them. The gravel in the west of Scotland is generally rough, loose, and very unpleasant to walk on. In some places rotten rock _is used as a substitute for gravel, which makes, when power- fully rolled, a very agreeable surface to walk on, though not one very pleasant to the eye. Where no gravel abounds naturally, there is always in Scotland a very good substitute to be found in finely broken stone; for example, in granite, basalt, sandstone, or some variety of bright coloured-schistus ; and this broken stone, when firmly rolled, forms an elegant and durable as well as agreeable walk. The use of a heavy roller for compression, and of salt or handweeding for destroy- ing the weeds, instead of loosening the surface by the hoe, as well as of dried clay in powder to mix with and bind river gravel, seemed to us to be generally wanting. Indeed, the use of a roller, which will give five or six times the pressure which by any possibility can come on a walk cr road, is not even generally understood by engineers in England. Our attention was first directed to it by a friend (Mr. 'Tomalin), who is of opinion, that by the use of very heavy rollers, after making or mending roads, they might every where be rendered as smooth as gravel walks, and as durable as pavement. Burnt clay which contains iron often assumes a beautiful red- dish yellow colour, and might form a very good substitute for Kensington gravel. The Kitchen-gardens in Scotland are generally formed at greater expense, and kept afterwards with more care and neatness, than they are in England. The reason may be, that the climate requires a greater-variety of fruits to be cultivated against walls; and that the kitchen-garden, being usually well sheltered, and also ornamented with flowers, is, contrary to the English practice, as much used as a place to walk in, by the female part of the family, as the pleasure-ground. We found some Scotch kitchen-gardens kept with remarkable ye LL 4& SIRE General Résulis\of.a: Gardening Tour. neatnesssand withont a! singleoweed ;' the defective part: being | the gravel; walks;owhich; ‘as before observed, being hoed and). raked, are generally: loose; and disagreeable to» walk upons:; Asimay: beosupposed,;from ‘the number of hands being almost every! where’ diminished; we! recognised a falling off in the: keeping ‘of kitchen-gardens since the time we were last in this part-of Scotland ;: but what. struck us as the greatest de- feetin almost all:the Scottish gardens, as well as in most of the English ones which: we have seen during our tour, was the barrenness: of the wall fruit trees. We do not recollect a: single garden in Scotland, where there was a fair crop over: every part of the walls, unless it were at Kilkerran. The cause is clearly owing to the practice of digging and cropping the borders. Most gardeners are as well aware of this as we are; but they say they cannot do without the crops produced by the borders; and that, if they were not to crop them, their masters would think they were not doing their duty. What we would say in answer is, that it is very absurd to be at so great'an expense in building walls and training trees on them, and at the same time to take the most effectual means to pre- vent these wall trees from producing fruit. We shall not repeat what we have already advanced (Vol. VII. p. 542.) 5 bat it may be useful to mention, that, in the excellent new gar- den at Kilkerran, not a peach or a nectarine was produced; till the very intelligent gardener, Mr. Cullen, took up the: trees, formed a substratum of lime rubbish, firmly beaten down, and covered it with soil not deeper than f ft., then re- planted the trees, and never since cropped or even dug the ground about their roots. Mr. Cullen has now short well-ripened wood, and good crops of fruit every year. In the garden at St. Mary’s Isle there is a vinery which never fails bearing an abundant crop; and here the border has not been dug for thirty years, but only covered with rotten leaves and rotten dung, underneath which Mr. Nisbet showed us a web of fibres rising to the surface, and feeding on it. Plant- ing standard fruit trees in kitchen-gardens is a bad practice, and ‘generally prevalent: the vegetables or small fruits grown below them can’ never attain a proper size and flavour ; and the culture of the soil, required to produce these vegetables and small fruits, is‘as injurious to the standard trees as crop ping borders is to the wall trees. Dwarfs and espaliers along the walks’ are Jess’ objectionable than standards in the com= partments but how seldom do we find such trees bearing 300d ‘crops’! Fhe cause is in the digging and cropping. Standard ‘fruit trees are generally best planted in an orchard by themselves; the ground very slightly cropped, till the trees owe : Alonticultuval: Jottandas \ais) 5IRe have-attninedya considerable: size; anc the ground afterwards sown with! orass3 or, what is preferable, ‘merely: aie sees au j weeds, by: hoeing, ini or slightsdigging. : ‘De Constiuction Of Hot-houses of. every. descri iption is b: no} means'so far-advanced: in the west-of Scotland:as it:is in: ae ; land, and still lessothe mode of: heatingothem by hot waters: By ‘farstoo much labour>is bestowed on the! :woodwork,) in’: forming mouldings, panels, and other) ornamental surfaces, whiely: serve clittle purpose but that of harbouring dirt) and! moisture and vermin, rotting the materials, and ‘darkening the house. rt (To be concluded m our next.) Art. II. Horticultural Jottanda of a recent Continental Tour. ie By Rozerr Ma xtet, Jun. Esq. : KvERY young gardener of the present day ought-to tr sels abr oad; and if twoor three j join company, so much the better: There are useful hints as to the how a young gardener-of small means is to manage this, in the Encyclopedia of Gardening; but pecuniary difficulties are not so great as may be imagined. Anvattentiye and careful young man . could and ought fo/have, saved 80/. by the time he is 24 years of age; and with that sum-he may remain three months on the Continent ; and.in that time. have been a week in Paris (long enough to. see carefully all that. is useful to a gardener there), have seen some ofthe South of France, the best of the Alps, most of Kidlys. and returned through Ger many; Belgium, and Holland, From nearly such a tour I have just arrived; and although it was riot made with any particular view to horticulture or natural history, I beg to offer a few scattered observations, made at the time, on those subjects ; conceiving, that, although not very valuable, they may elicit better from ie S, OF pReue acdesire to travel in those who have never before felt it. ‘yDo:premise from my own experience, I think the following Ihinks of equipment may not be unserviceable : — zolA-traveller-on the Continent should be as expeditious - as peesbles he:should have no trunks or portmanteaus at all; asiby these means, he will escape almost all the troublesome. examination of: the douaniers, or customhouse officers, and bevenabled.to goto places that he never could, if loaded. with ashuge baggage. Instead of all this, he should have one large carpet. bag, “muel: lar ger than usual; consisting of carpet, out- side,) varnished: linen. next, and lined. with strong! ticken or r 522 Horticultural Jottanda canvass. ‘The varnished linen is absolutely necessary to pro- tect from rain; linen, clothes, &c., may be tied up in a rect- angular piece of grey canvass, prepared with short straps for the purpose, which will preserve them clean and unruffled ; a strong dressing-case should include all small articles: a large sponge, for washing, is a great luxury in a southern climate. A person of good general health will find much advantage, in the south of Europe, from taking with him abundance of Seidlitz powders; magnesia, which the acid wines render necessary; and a box of aloetic pills, which will be efficaciously purgative. For the preservation of specimens of natural history, he should carry a strongly made box of wood, about 12 in. by 8in., and 4 in. deep, with boards of soft pine to drop in, one on another, leaving spaces, from 13 in. to half an inch, for sticking insects on, or laying by any small miscellaneous fragile articles. Some loosely bound books of blotting paper, that will fit into a leather writing-case, will answer for a tem- porary hortus siccus. A stout leathern bag, with plenty of lapping paper, will preserve mineral specimens; none of which, however, on account of their weight, should be collected, but such as are really worth preservation. Many plants, especially succulent ones, may be brought home alive, by being included in a cylindrical tin canister with small holes in the top, and a piece of soft wet sponge in the bottom, to envelope the roots. I brought home alive, from Florence, specimens of the Agave lurida, Zuphdérbza triangu- laris, Cactus monanthos [ ? Optintia monacantha], &c., simply by wrapping their roots in a bit of sponge, wetting it from time to time, and including the whole in brown paper, and that in an old boot. I would recommend a solitary or pedestrian traveller, in Italy, to carry a strong pair of detonating pistols. A showy military uniform, though singularly inappropriate for a gar- dener, is probably the best travelling dress. I shall not attempt a regular tourist’s journal; of such too many exist; and I have neither time nor inclination to add to the number. Perhaps of all the guide-books of the Con- tinent published, not one is to be wholly depended on. Good maps are the best guides; the German published ones are the most accurate and full. Every traveller to Paris, by the way of Havre, should go by the steamer up the Seine, which I think rivals, if it does not exceed, the Rhine in beauty. The banks of the Seine are in most places lofty, in some abrupt, but nowhere flat; always either verdant, or clothed with a golden crop, and wooded of a recent Continental Tour. 523 with magnificent poplars, which cast their long reflections in the still deep stream. Its whole course is a succession of beau- ties: villages are thickly set upon its brink; here an ancient decaying chateau faces its long straightly planted chase to the water, and, far beyond, some lofty minster raises its airy pin- nacles amidst umbrageous woods. ‘The nurseries at Rouen are said to be worth visiting, particularly for their standard roses; an article so artificial, costly, and speedily dying, even in the nursery, that I imagine they will soon cease to engage the attention of our gardeners, especially as, with proper management, engrafted roses may be grown as strong, and, I think, to look as well. The best mode of management for standard roses I have seen is that of Mr. M‘Cabe, gardener to Mr. Lefroy, near Dublin. A long semicircular hedge of sweet and dog briar, partly surrounding a parterre, is cherished into strong upright shoots, a succession of which is constantly maintained; these are budded, and those that die are immediately replaced by budding on the vacant stocks. When in bloom, it is quite a kaleidoscope of roses, of all hues and sizes. But to return: I am sorry to say the French nurserymen are not the most liberal: good carnations they have, therefore good seed ; but good seed they will not give to an Englishman, if they know him to be such. I myself got some seed only last year, from ‘Rouen, which professed to be wonders: it produced a fine crop of single clove pinks. The road between Rouen and Paris is not very remarkable. The hedges are clothed luxuriantly with the Clématis Viti- célla and Bryonia alba, plants which grow freely on similar calcareous soils in Britain; but many others, unusual in England, grow by the wayside. Flax is not an uncom- mon crop in Normandy, but the Indian corn is seldom seen, and never in perfection more northerly than sixty miles south of Paris. Four years ago, the entire road from Rouen to Paris was a chaussée, always a bad though a lasting kind of road; now nearly half of it is macadamised, and well too; a welcome symptom of improvement. How much finer, in some respects, the entrance to Paris, by any of the boulevards, is, than even the finest of the en- trances to London! How much finer the long rows of stately elms, and luxuriant robinias, with quiet pathways, “ A pillar’d shade, with echoing walks between,” and the houses retired behind them, than our rows of lath and plaster boxes, with little courts before them, just large 524 Hortienttaval Jottanda \ etiough to hold’a few barrowfuls ‘of gravel, ‘and contain'two or! threat fantastic and unmeaning beds ‘of common flowers ; évery one=laid ‘cut ‘somehow different: from: its neighbours almost all ugly, and, viewed en masse, pedis no effect whatever of harmony or grandeur. “ »'Phis'taste probably arises’ from’ our national churlishness. W e are unwilling to yield’ the’ smallest private or exclusive right, for the common gratification of ourselves and others." It will probably be said, the damp’ of our climate is such, that rows of trees would keep the road in bad order and the path- ways constantly wet: the noble lines of lofty elms that dig- nify the quays of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, where slyerk i is much traffic, and ina damper climate than ours, are a gees to the contrary. Why not, at least, make the trial in some of the new streets laying out about London? Even if the trees should have to be cut down, their timber would pay the expense of the experiment. It is strange the common robinia [R. Pseud- Acacia Lg is not as ack used in England, as a forest tree, as it is in France. None can be more easily propagated. It could be obtained from the Continent yearly, is abundantly hardy, and singularly beautiful. When arrived at twenty or ee years of age, it flowers freely, even in Ir eland.* It is true, it is brittle while young, but when old enough for the wood to have hardened in the heart of the tree, it: will stand the worst storms; and while young it can be supeonee as it always is on the Continent. Jardin des Plantes. — ‘There is nothing particularly new-at the Jardin des Plantes, and it has been ‘often described, but the discovery by, I think, M. Turpin, of a large quunti¢y of pure oxalate of lime in botryoidal [bunch-of- grapes-shaped ] masses, in the centre of an old “ Céreus peruvianus,” which had been many years in the garden. There is a sad want of verdute and leafiness on all the in= side plants in the Continental gardens, arising from the dark houses they are nurtured in, their being indiscriminately put out under a burning sun in summer, and but sparingly and Team uly watered, and fire heat applied the whole winter. It will’ be long ere the gardens of the Continent: can vie! ‘with those” of England’ in horticultural preservative ‘structures, chiefly owing to their inferiority in the manufacture of ‘iron but ] ‘should Baek a clever English artisan! in’: this’ brati¢h MOweswo v _o*, The use of rig, tree for, timber -has been sedulously. agence Mr, Cobbett, under the name of “ locust tree,” its name in America, Where the tr ee is s natives. _ See Gar d. Mag., Sy ‘vol. iit. Pp 363, ee D. ad 11309 OM Teor le of a recenk Continental Tour. 525 would. gets full work 1@@@aris and. the departments: , There have, been, considerable additions, of Australian. plants to; the Jardin des Plantes sinee 5 visited, it, four) years ago, but not many of other kinds. Much might be said of the sini of such. institutions, ¢ las this,in France, and their exclusiveness in England; but much has been said, and the evil is the same: so that:I fear it/is connected nik our national character; and, ual that. is changed, the exclusiveness will remain. The. last expedition to Algiers has. enriched. ibe garden wath a large number of lions aaa tigers, noble specimens. -, Iwas fortunate enough to see the waterworks play at, Ver- sailles the day after the commemoration of the “ Trois Jour; nées ” {three days] of July, 1830. ' Unless the gardens at Versailles are filled with an immense er Mand, and. the waterworks playing, they are the yery abode ‘of Tease splendour. Nothing can be conceived more melan-+ choly and monotonous: this, I think, chiefly arises from the great space seen over at once, and the perfectly symmetrical, ar- rangement... In fine, every thing, individually, at. Versailles is costly and fine; and, viewed as a national production, is worthy the “grand, monarque ;” but, with few exceptions, it presents more lavish expense than good taste. Amongst those few exceptions are the orangery, and the back facade of the palace... There are some orange trees of great size, and of remarkably fine form, in the orangery, said to be above four hundred years,old : their trunks are about 9 in. in diameter. Although the public gardens of Paris so abound in orange trees, the Pani isians mite but little advantage of their delicious edour, when in flower, as all their blossoms are sold annually to the perfumers. ‘The new suspension bridge over the Seine, the ‘* Pont d’Arcole,” although not strictly a gardener’s con~ cern, is worthy, of notice. _ Instead of the chains passing over two piers, one on each side of the river, and the bridge thus consisting of one catenary and two semi-catenaries, there is one’ pier built in the centre of the river, and the whole bridge consists only of two, semi-catenaries : thus, when this construc- tion is practicable, peub one half the cost of the bridge is saved. (Unepassing: throng tlie iinterior-of France, on the ‘road to ere, the small and narrow strips of land into which. the- law, of inheritance divides territorial property are very remark- able.../ Whether this is advantageous or not is, I think, to, be questioned. ‘The want of a rural population and of a resi- dent” gentry is too’ obvious: the whole country is, as it were, a waste of agriculture and forest, scarcely any pasture, and almost no country houses. A str iking difference between the 526 Horticultural Jottanda. scenery of the Continent, and that of Britain, is, the total want of those frequent crystalline brooks, which beautify and fertilise our land, and the want of which will ever prevent Continental scenery from wholly pleasing an English eye. Either there are large rivers, or there is no water at all. As the distance from Normandy increases, the rich and florid Gothic architecture of the ecclesiastical edifices gradually dis- appears, and gives way to a disagreeable mongrel between it and the marble-faced classical Italian fanes. I know not if it be merely fancy, but I imagine there is a constant increase of hilliness from the northern coast of France to the foot of the Alps. At Poligny these Alps first rear their fronts against the traveller, and over the tops of Jura the road leads on to Geneva. Perhaps the panorama that in an instant bursts upon the astonished eye, at the commence- ment of the descent of Jura, is not equalled by any in Europe. At once, as if by the drawing up of the curtain of a theatre, Lake Leman, blue as the sapphire, with its dark foreground of pines; the whole High Alps, with their stormy summits ; Geneva, Lausanne, Vevay; countless villages and villas, in luxuriant vine-clad valleys, appear. The road, as it winds down Jura, has been constructed with admirable skill, showing the view in all points, and never letting it be lost sight of for a moment, although in a thick pine forest. The Rhone, at Geneva, is some 70ft. deep, but so exquisitely clear, that a pebble may be seen in the bottom at that depth; but, seen with its surface at a small angle, to the eye it appears of the most beauteous transparent blue: this, some assert, arises from the lake’s waters being actually coloured ; but the. transparency of the waters en masse disproves this. ‘The fact is, it arises from the colour of the bottom, which, being of the same substance as the neighbouring side of Jura, a calcareous tufa, is nearly white ; and the blue of the sky is thus reflected with such singular beauty. There is a great number of English residents near Geneva, and every thing bears the ap- pearance of wealth and comfort. The climate is delicious, the oppressive heat of the Swiss valleys being attempered by the lake; and the highest cultivation prevails. On the smooth bosom of the lake, on each side the ever- lasting Alps, the quiet sail wafts us on our way to Villeneuve, ‘¢ as with a noiseless wing.” ‘“¢ Lake Leman wooes me with its crystal face, The mirror where the stars and mountains view The stillness of their aspect in each trace Its clear depth yields of their far height and hue.” Martigny shall be our head-quarters in my next. (To be continued.) Gardens in the Lake District. ~ 527 Art. III. Remarks on certain Gardens in the Lake District, and on cultivating a Taste for Gardening among Cottagers generally. By Josnua Magsor, Esq., Landscape-Gardener. Sir, I was glad to observe, in the Gardener’s Magazine (Vol. VII. p- 525.), your particular notice of the gardens of Mrs. Starkey, and of the village of Bowness, while on your tour in the Lake district. It may appear superfluous to touch on this sub- ject, after your remarks upon it, but too much cannot be said in favour of examples like that of Mrs. Starkey; and I am tempted to persuade myself that the ladies generally will pardon me, when I appeal to them to suffer a portion of their benevolence to be similarly devoted. Might not many im- portant objects be accomplished, by ladies, in conjunction with their pastors, frequently visiting poor villagers, to ascertain their general wants; to assist them in times of need; to see that the rising families have moral and religious instruction ; to provide small libraries of useful books; and, at proper periods, to establish horticultural meetings, either confined to one village, or belonging to two or three collected together, for the exhibition of horticultural produce, and for rewarding the best productions? These meetings to be conducted by the upper gardeners, together with any other suitable persons, who might provide the villagers with plants, seeds, &c., for their gardens. Attention paid to the poor in this way could not fail to produce in their minds a proper respect towards their benefactors; and its success would constitute a triumph of knowledge over ignorance, of virtue over vice, and of happiness over misery. Instead of the cottager indulging himself in sloth and drunkenness, we should see his leisure hours spent in his garden; his pleasure would be in the com- pany of his wife and children; and his anxiety, that they should share with him in all the domestic comforts that could be afforded. Having been called to the Lake district on professional business, a few weeks after your call at Bowness, I had the pleasure of waiting upon Mrs. Starkey, whom I found in the village streets, with her pruning-knife in her hand, divesting the laurels of their useless leaves and branches, while her gardener was training them against the village walls. Mrs. Starkey kindly left her employment, and showed me over her grounds, which are not extensive, but which reflect much credit both upon their liberal proprietress and on her gar- dener, for their superior keeping. ‘They exhibited a splendid show of border flowers, green-house plants, and valuable 528 Gardens in the Lake District. shrubs and creepers; from any of which, cuttings, offsets, or seeds, were politely offered me. Observing to the innkeeper of Bowness how pretty the Chinese roses, laurels, &c., looked _ against the street walls, and what a neat village Bowness was ; Yes,” he replied, “‘ we are indebted to Mrs. Starkey for _that: since her residence here, she has produced a general taste for gardening amongst the villagers.” I should have been glad had you called upon J. A. Beck, .Esq., Esthwaite Lodge, more particularly as Mr. Beck is a gentleman of general good taste, and a subscriber to most of your publications ; though, as the distance was far from your line of route, a call could not be anticipated. Esthwaite Lodge is a neat Grecian structure, situated on the border of Esthwaite Lake, a pretty water, about two miles long, and one broad in the widest part, at the distance of about five miles from Bowness, and on the opposite side of Windermere, near to Hawkshead, a small market town. ‘The grounds about the house are naturally much varied, and are capable of being made picturesque and pretty. I have given plans for nearly an entire alteration of them. It is intended to introduce as much variety as the compass of the ground will allow; viz., a green-house, a heath-house, aviaries, aquariums, fountains, rockeries, rural and ornamental seats, various pleasure gar- dens, forcing-houses, vegetable gardens, &c.; and a peach- house, vinery, and green-house are already built. The grounds, in their present state, are furnished with a valuable assortment of shrubs and border flowers. Mr. Beck’s principal enjoy- ments are in his library, and in horticultural pursuits, sketch- ing, and architecture. That head of Esthwaite Lake which lies near Hawkshead is, to a considerable extent, marshy; forming various-sized sheets of water. In one of these spaces, about forty or fifty yards in diameter, is seen a small floating island, which, as nearly as I was able to judge, from the difficulty of approaching it, is from ten to fifteen yards long and six or eight yards in width ; it is furnished with three or four alders from ten to fif- teen feet high, and with bushes, grass, and reeds, the roots of which, I should conjecture, are all interwoven. ‘The curiosity to the beholder is to see this group of trees (allin a growing state, and of the largest magnitude of any in the vicinity), at one time on the south side of the pool, at another on the opposite side; and at other times on its voyage to the west, or on its return to the east, as the wind may direct. I may just observe, that in the marshy grounds in this neighbourhood the common sweet gale and the Parnassia palustris abeund; and that the common and. other. ferns “Labourers Gardens? “599 present themselves’ abundantly, srowing “upon living “trees and bushes. “On the road from’ the ferry of ‘Windermere to Hawkshead; ‘the yew exhibits ‘itself singularly upon the mountains. ‘The mountain ashy the’ juniper, the common ‘stone crop, and others of the same spécies, are allnatives of the Lake district; and that humble but beautiful” Plant, Saxifraga’ op- positifolia, i is said to inhabit the mountams.’~”* T have lately been employed ‘to lay out the elves! ofa ‘ clergyman of the name of Heweill, in Nottinghamshire, who ds pursuing’ similar steps to Mrs. Starkey.’ Ele ‘keeps’ in‘ his garden a stock of the best sorts of apples and other fruit trees, Relvetied from the London nurseries, to distribute’among" his poor parishioner s, as they may be wanted. This, towethér’ with friendly attention in numerous instances, appears “to haye ained him much respect amongst them. Mr. Hewgill’ says, so comfortable are the working “class of his parishioners, that their situations are enviable: the whole of them keep cows, besides being regularly employed. In this neighbourhood, near to Gainsborough, caraway seeds grow naturally i in the pastures, and are oathered by children, and sold at one shilling per pound. The churchyard is planted in seve- ral parts, amongst the graves, with thriving evergreens, such as cedar of Lebanon, red cedars, arbor-vitees, ilexes, &e.; and the porch of the church is covered over with the -China rose, Greville rose, and the blotched-leaved Alatérnus. I am, dear Sir, yours, &c. Knowstrop, near Leeds, March 6. 1832. JosHua Maysor. ART. IV. On Gardens for the labouring Poor. By SELIM. Sir, Or all the plans recently suggested for improving the con- dition of the labouring classes, that of supplying them with land at a moderate rent is perhaps the one most likely to accomplish the object in view; though, to insure success, it requires judgment in the applications for) if a labourer has more land than he can cultivate profitably, that is, more than she can: manure and cultivate at leisure hours, it will prove a disadvantage ‘to’ him rather than’ a benefit ; and’ this disad- vantage’ wilbi increase, the longer he‘continues to occupy and exhaust the land. © In supplying the poor with’ land, there- fore, two things should be specially considered; viz., HOw much a working man‘'can’ cultivate without interfering” ‘with? his -ordinary lab bia ; ; and how much’ he can manure.’ As to the - Vou. VIII. — No, 40, MM 530 On Gardens for quantity, I am persuaded that a labouring man in full em- ployment cannot cultivate land with any profit to himself, if it obliges him to “lose time,” as they term it; and this is the opinion of all the sensible persons among the working classes whom I have spoken with upon the subject. A man, there- fore, who is in constant work, should have a less portion of garden ground than one whose time is not fully occupied ; and, in most parishes, there are generally many persons of the latter description, who stand most in need of the assistance of a piece of land. In the county of Wilts the labourers may be divided into three classes. In the first place, there are men employed the whole year by one master; such as carters, shepherds, and threshers, or day labourers. Of these, the carters and shepherds have very little spare time, especially in the spring. A large garden would, therefore, be an inconvenience to such men, and moreover unprofitable, inasmuch as they must hire assistance, or else cultivate their ground very imperfectly. Again, there is a class of men employed as thatchers and hedgers, or general workers in wood, who are not always engaged by one master; conse- quently they have, occasionally, much unemployed time, which would enable them to cultivate more land than the carters and shepherds. And, lastly, there is a class of labourers who generally work by the piece at turnip-hoeing and bean-setting, and other jobs of that kind; these men, from the nature of their employment, must be frequently out of work, and consequently would have leisure to cultivate, and would indeed require, a larger garden than the two former classes. In apportioning land, therefore, to a labourer, the first thing to be considered is, how much leisure time he has over his regular employment; always bearing in mind that regular employment with a master is the most profitable occupation to a working man. ‘The next thing to be con- sidered is, how much can he manure; for the land would very soon become unprofitable to him, if cropped yearly with potatoes for instance, unless it has the assistance of manure. Now, a clever managing person, who is enabled to grow as many potatoes as would assist in feeding a couple of pigs, and who collects carefully all the refuse of his garden, the produce of his sinkhole and ditches, and what he can pick up on the roads, would, with his wood ashes, raise a consider- able compost heap in the course of twelve months. The question is, would he raise nearly enough to cover half his land every year If he did not, he has more land than he can profitably cultivate, and therefore more than he ought to occupy. In judging, then, as to the quantity of land that a the labouring Poor. 53r* labourer can cultivate with advantage to himself, regard should be had to the leisure time he has, and to the quantity of manure he can collect ; for there can be no profit from his land, unless there be a due proportion observed in these par- ticulars. ‘The quantity being thus determined, there is a third thing to be considered, viz., the situation of the land. Here it should be remembered, that the labourer is to cultivate his land at his leisure time, after he has done an honest day’s work for the master who employs him. It is important, therefore, that his land be near home; for if it be at a dis- tance, he will waste much time and strength in journeys to and from it; whereas, if it adjoined, or were near, his house, no time would be lost, and, in fact, he would spend many a half hour in his garden, which he would be obliged to waste if the garden were at a distance. Now, where a parish belongs chiefly to one proprietor, it might generally be contrived that the cottage allotments should be contiguous to the houses, and in all cases they might be chosen at a convenient distance. I often cast a longing look upon a little strip of land in the rear of our village, which seems to be placed on purpose for cottage allotments, within a few minutes’ walk of the most distant houses; and I frequently wonder why the owner does not let this land to his labourers, instead of some which is a mile from home, for which they pay at the rate of four pounds an acre: indeed, I have known men give to the small farmers of the neighbourhood at the rate of eight pounds an acre, for land still more distant; which proves, I think, that under proper regulations the cottagers might become the most pro- fitable tenants on an estate, and at least that it would answer them to rent land at the same rate as the farmers pay for it, or even a trifle more. IY I have been led to offer these few observations on a sub- ject in which I take an interest, because I fear that the plan of cottage allotments may fail in many instances, from being overdone. I believe it will be found, on trial, that no man in constant work can properly cultivate an acre of land at his leisure hours. ‘There are few, I think, who could manage even half an acre, but a great deal must depend upon the character of the man; and, in many cases, a quarter of an acre would be found sufficient. ‘The system followed by your be- nevolent correspondent H., Wales, p. 376., is one of the best, I think, that can be generally adopted, both for the master and labourer ; and, where this is impracticable, I should prefer the plan of letting, to the superior class of labourers, a suf- ficient quantity of grass land to keep one cow, instead of supplying all with a large allotment of arable. A carter or MM 2 532 Lixtension of Gardening Shepherd, who has high wages and little leisure time, might ‘easily manage a cow and two or three acres of grass land, though he might not be able to cultivate properly a quarter )of, an acre of garden ground; and, after all, I may observe that the success of the plan of letting land to labourers, whe- ‘ther grass or arable, will chiefly depend on adapting the grant -to the character of the person to be benefited. A cow, for instance, which is a little fortune to a steady industrious family, would be quite useless to the idle and unthrifty. The allotments of land, therefore, and every thing connected with them, should be managed by the resident landlord, or his agent, who may be supposed to be well acquainted with the character and circumstances of the labourers in the parish. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. Near Salisbury, July 12. 1832, SELIM. Art. V. On the Means of inspiring a Taste for Gardening among _ the labouring Classes of Scotland. By James Stuart MeEn- TEATH, Jun., Esq. of Closeburn, Dumfriesshire. “ Between the upper and lower classes in Scotland, cordiality, mutual con- fidence, and support prevail, to which many other nations are strangers. It behoves the higher classes to endeavour, by protection, by kindness, and by example, to preserve those principles and relations which have been so honourable to Scotland, which form the basis of good education, and without which education is unavailing.” “ And round about he taught sweet flowers to grow.” Spenser. No country abounds more with seminaries for the education of youth than Scotland; and much of the successful enterprise of her inhabitants may be attributed to the education obtained in these seminaries, of which parochial schools may justly be reckoned the principal. But the education, how good soever it may be, acquired at these schools, might be rendered more perfect, by incorporating with them somewhat of a practical nature, to train the hand as well as the mind. Many em- ployments suited to this purpose might be suggested ; but “scarcely any could be at once more agreeable and beneficial, “than instructing the children in the operations of common “kitchen-gardening. The proposal of such a new scheme may “startle some, who are not aware that nearly every parochial ‘schoolmaster in Scotland already possesses a garden, of a -smaller or larger extent, which might be employed for this _purpose; the extent of every schoolmaster’s garden being fixed “by an‘act of parliament to be a rood, or quarter of an acre, of Sground.’ Others, again, may suppose that the other business amongst the Scottish Labourers. 583 of the school would be interfered with, and interrupted, were’a method of school gardening teaching introduced: but it will not be difficult to show the contrary. To introduce into our Scottish parish schools the teaching of gardening to children, we should require, in the future ap- pointment of all schoolmasters, a knowledge of the culture and uses of all the common culinary vegetables and fruits, together with a slight acquaintance with flowers; and, to assist those masters already appointed, but who may be ignorant of horti- culture, the gardener of some landed proprietor in the parish, or, if none in it, the gardener of some neighbouring heritor, might be called in, to supply the want of information in these respects. A knowledge of horticulture might easily be ac- quired by all young men qualifying themselves to be parochial schoolmasters, in a similar manner ; since scarcely a parish in the southern parts of Scotland is without one or more resident landed proprietors. [hese all possess gardens, and nearly all keep a gardener. None of these proprietors would deny the schoolmaster access to their gardens; where he might learn, under the direction of the gardener, all the practical useful parts of common kitchen-gardening: and, where towns are near, a more extensive acquaintance with the subject might be obtained by frequenting the gardens of intelligent nurserymen, who would, no doubt, do every thing in their power to facili- tate so useful a design. Supposing, then, the schoolmaster possessed of the requisite knowledge of common kitchen-garden cultivation; his garden, being increased to not less than halfan acre of ground, should be divided into portions. ‘These divisions should be of such a size as to admit, in each, of a regular rotation of the several ve- getable crops to be raised. Over each plot or division of ground a certain number of children, not too numerous, but so ar- ranged that each individual might be able to put his little hand to the work himself, should be placed. Rows of goose- berry, currant, and raspberry bushes might separate the divisions; and a few apple, pear, and cherry trees might have place, as standards, espaliers, and wall trees. On these, the processes of budding and grafting could be exemplified. In order that no interruption should be thrown in the way of the regular business within the school, the cultivation of the schoolmaster’s garden by the children should be only carried on in their play hours, and an hour on Saturdays, when all the other business of the school had been got through, or when- eyer time could be spared. In order to secure complete success to this new branch of parish school education, it will be necessary to interest all the MM 3 : 534 Gardening amongst the Scottish Labourers. parties; the schoolmaster, the children, their parents, and the landed proprietors of the parish. In the first place, the schoolmaster receiving all the benefit of the largely increased produce of his garden, as improved and cultivated by the children, may be supposed not unwilling to give every attention to instruct his pupils in gardening, were only sufficient ground afforded for the purpose. Next, to stimulate the children to exertion and industry, there should be several examinations of the garden at stated periods of the year. To these examinations should be invited all in the parish who take an interest in such improvements. Various rewards, of the following kinds, should be distributed among the young cultivators ; such as packets of seeds, con- taining all the useful vegetables, and a few flowers; these packets to be so numerous, that nearly every child should be able to carry home one with him. Besides these papers of seeds, garden tools of different kinds, books connected with gardening and rural subjects, and even small sums of money, might be distributed, as means to encourage the children to diligence and attention. The parents, likewise, receiving through their children packets of seeds to be sown in their gardens by their little hands, possessing the skill and knowledge of raising them, will warmly cooperate in introducing this system of school gardening into Scotland. The proprietor even, although not immediately benefited, cannot fail ultimately of deriving advantage from improve- ments, in the taste for gardening, which the children, ac- quiring at the parish school, would spread over all the country. That their property would be more safe, and that the people around them would be more independent, deriving more food from their gardens being well cultivated, must be obvious to all; also, that the moral habits of the people would be greatly improved, as there would be no necessity for breaking into gardens, and stealing their produce. Thus. it will be apparent that this scheme of parochial school gardening, interesting the schoolmaster, the children, the parents, and the landed proprietors, will not fail of being generally beneficial to every one. The youth of the country will, so instructed, grow up. with a love of rural affairs; and, instead of throwing away their time and money in low dissipation, both will be devoted in their leisure hours to useful pursuits. ‘Thus Scotland, from being a country famed for its good agriculture, will become equally so for its cottage gardening; and every cottage will have its garden, stored with all the useful potherbs and vege- Double-roofed Hot-houses. 535 tables, for the food of its inmates; with fruit, so desirable to all; and will be ornamented also with a choice small collection of flowers. In addition to which, a love of plants and flowers being universally diffused, every parish may in time have its little garden society, and its meetings for the distribution of prizes for the best vegetables, and fruits, and flowers, among its members. April 26. 1832. James Stuart MENTEATH. In England, the Society of Friends, or Quakers, have ex- cellent free schools; one near Wigton, in Cumberland, another near Leeds, a third at Croydon, and a fourth near Bristol. To each of these, I understand, a garden and farm are at- tached, on which the children work. In Ireland, the place I cannot recollect, a school to teach agriculture on the best principles has, within these few years, been instituted for the labouring people’s children. ‘The effects, I hear, are very striking ; and plots of turnips, and other symptoms of improved management, are observed near it. In Switzerland, Fellen- berg’s school, divided into two departments, one for the rich, the other for the labouring people’s children, is well known. There, the cultivation of the farm, and the instruction of the children in agriculture, under the care of an intelligent master, combine in spreading much valuable agricultural knowledge throughout that country; and I cannot see why gardening might not, by means of our Scottish parochial schools, be spread in a similar way among all the labouring people of Scotland. — J. S. M. Art. VI. On the Construction of double-roofed Hot-houses at Vienna. By M. Cuarves Raucu, Court-Gardener at Laxen- burg. Tuer advantage of double lights for plant-houses is well known in those parts of the Continent where the severity of the winter renders some kind of external covering indispens- able; and in several places, particularly in Russia, they are much in use. ‘These structures have, however, lately been improved by M. Seidel, nurseryman at Vienna; and a con- servatory (fig. 84. section), belonging to M. Meyer, has been erected at Penzing, on the following principle: — The front and side walls are double, or rather hollow; and the space between is filled with warmed air, which is supplied by a furnace or oven, constructed behind the house for that purpose. Thence the heated air is introduced between MM 4 53SEC: On the Construction (7 fe. a, Outer sashes. 6; Inner sashes. c, Space between the sashes, cut through the rafters. d, Space in the wall for warmed air, or hot-water pipes, &c. e, Wall plate. J, Front wall, hollow. g, Back wall, also hollow. h, Hole through the wall-plate. the sashes, through perforations in the wall-plate on which they stand; the rafters have also open spaces through their sides, to facilitate the equable diffusion of the warmth, which is thus spread as a covering over the whole house. ‘The ad- vantage which this method of keeping out the eold affords for the cultivation of plants which only require protection in win- ter, such as ericas, camellias, and New Holland plants, for which the above-mentioned conseryatory is designed, is very great. For stoves, where a higher temperature is required, a flue in the inside of the house would be necessary; and this, if placed in contact with the inner side of the double wall, would be sufficient to heat both the air of the house and that con- tained between the sashes. It is, however, of no consequence whether the source of heat be hot-water pipes, steam, or fire flues; and, provided the principal object (the warming between the sashes) is attended to, many advantageous varia- tions may be adopted, according to the purpose for which the house is intended; as hot-water pipes between the hollow walls, and flues in the interior of the house, both heated by of double-roofed Flot-houses. 537 the same fire; or the back wall may be flued, and pipes in- troduced both into the house and between the front and side walls, &c. &c. Air may be admitted either through ventilators in the walls or in the sashes; and, by forming ventilators alternately in the upper and lower sashes, the coldness of the external air will, in some measure, be taken off, by passing through the warmed stratum contained between the lights. In spring, when a more abundant supply is necessary, the doors may be partially opened, or some of the inner sashes may be entirely removed, and the outer ones opened. The expense of double glazing, and the consequent loss of light, may be urged as objections to these structures; but when the immense labour of covering every evening with straw mats and shutters, the breakage of glass, and the enor- mous consumption of fuel, are taken into consideration, the advantage will in a short time be found to be on the side of double sashes. In respect to the light, when the rafters are neatly made, very little will be lost, and the deprivation, at a season when the plants are not in a growing state, is far less injurious than the scorching heat, which, when the house is formed only of single lights, is requisite to resist an intensity of cold sufficient to lower the thermometer 20°, or even 25°, below zero of Reaumur. Since the above-described house was erected, there has been a double-roofed camellia house built for the Archduke John, near the Carolinen Thor, at Vienna, of which fig. 85. is the ground plan. 85 . a, Stage, 6 6, Furnaces for heating the vacuity: 538 Double-roofed Hot-houses. Fig. 86. Side view of the same. Fig. 87. Section on the ine a B. == 87 B __ In England, and in the southern parts of the Continent, it is probable that this method could not be employed with so much advantage as in Germany or Russia; but in more northern climates it deserves some attention; and there is no doubt that, as it becomes more general, other improvements will suggest themselves. As I do not find this plan men- tioned in any work on gardening, I have transmitted the present description of it, accompanied by a sketch for your inspection. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. May, 1832. CuHarLes Raucn. New Mode of training Fruit Trees. 539 Art. VII. A new Mode of training Fruit Trees ; a new Mode of grafting and marching ; and an improved Mode of making Goose- berry Wine and Cider, &c. By Mr. W. Green, Jun. Sir, his Havine seen in the Gardener’s Magazine descriptions of various methods of training wall trees, I take the liberty of sending the description of what I call my method, as I have never seen or heard of its having been employed by any other person but myself, and I have used it for several years with success, particularly on long low walls. Pear Trees.— Every one who has paid any attention to training pear trees horizontally, must be aware of the length of time required to fill a wall with shoots at equal distances ; and that this can only be accomplished, according to the usual method, by heading down the leader every year. This operation does not always produce two lateral shoots, and it is not only tedious, but it has also a tendency to make the shoots already produced grow more rank than is desirable. By my method this is avoided, and the wall is much sooner © filled in height with shoots: it is as follows: — If the wall is under 20 ft. long, and it is mtended to train a pear tree against it, plant the tree at one end of the wall, and then proceed as follows : — Let the situation of the tree be at a, in fig. 88.: stick a nail in the wall at 4, and another nail at 88 —— ——/ (ee SS Se OE Ee pS) c, and strike a line on the wall from J to c; then train all the shoots to one side after the fan manner, and bend the whole of the shoots into a horizontal position, as soon as they reach the line that is drawn from 6 toc; after which continue to train them horizontally. If the wall is from 30 to 40 ft. in length, plant the tree in the middle of it, at d in fig. 89, and proceed as follows : — Stick a nail in the wall in the centre, near the top, at e; stick another nail at f{ and another at g: then strike a line from e to f, another line from e to g; train the tree in the fan man- ner, until the shoots reach the lines drawn upon the wall, and then bend them horizontally. 540 New Mode of grafting and inarching. @ tee aan ? ry 89 ~b— i U he > Y : 7 \ § \ ; \! ; —_——_______—_ \ - QW LZ NZ é i a Gt & RIS SSS WE SRDS If the wall is higher than it is wide, proceed as follows : — Plant the tree in the middle of the wall at 4, in fg. 90.; stick one nail at z, one at /, and one at Z: strike the lines as before; but, instead of spreading out the shoots horizontally, train them perpendicularly. This process answers well: also for vines, or any other rank-growing tree. New Method of grafting by Ap- proach. — Cut off the stock in the form of a wedge, as in fg. 91., and cut the graft upwards, half way through, for a sufficient length, as in fig. 92.; then place the graft upon the stock, as in jig. 93., and bind it on with bass and clay as usual, taking off a circle of bark between the graft and the root, as in jg. 93. m, which will cause the sap to flow Improved Mode of making Gooseberry Wine. 541 through the graft into the stock , instead of into its own root o. I recommend this method for grafting, whenever the stock and the graft are of the same size, or very nearly so; but I recommend the following modification to be employed, when the stock is twice the size of the graft : — Cut off the top of the stock slanting from one side only, so as to form about a right angle, jg. 94. Then make a long tongue to the graft, about one third of its thickness, jig. 95. p, Le and cut as much of the bark and wood from the back and front of the stock as will correspond with the width of the tongue on the graft; when the stock is ready to receive the graft, it will appear like jig. 96. 7: there must be also a piece cut off the back of the stock at r, fig. 96.; but it is not seen in the drawing. Then place the graft across the middle of the stock, as in Jig. 97., and bind it with bass and clay as usual; after which take off a ring of bark at s, in fg. 97., in the same manner as was directed for fig. 93. — English Champagne Wine. —1 send you a receipt for this wine, which, though perhaps not new, certainly produces the best imitation of foreign wine we have, and, when properly made and properly managed, it has deceived some of the knowing ones 542 Improved Mode of To every pound of gooseberries (full grown, but not changed colour for ripening) well crushed, add one pint of cold soft water; let them stand till they begin to ferment ; then press out the liquor, and to every quart of it add one pound of loaf sugar: fill the cask quite full, and keep it full up to the bunghole, so that the scum and yeast which are formed on the wine may work out. When the strong fer- mentation is over, but before it has done hissing, add to every nine gallons half an ounce of the best isinglass, dissolved in cold cider, and let it be well stirred about for a quarter of an hour: after this, the wine must not be stirred or disturbed, but, as soon as it is fine, it must be bottled in strong cham- pagne bottles, and wired down. I am well aware that scientific chemists will say that the finings ought not to be added until the wine has ceased to ferment; and in all other cases of wine-making I admit this to be correct: but in the present case I find that it is best to add the finings at the period I have named, as it is most de- sirable to get the champagne fine as soon as possible; for, upon this, and its being bottled, corked, and wired, the mo- ment it is fine, depends the success of the process. If you wish to colour it pink, pour some boiling water on some cochineal, bruised, and put in a basin; let it stand all night, and then strain it through a piece of cloth, and add as much as will give it the colour desired. It will be found a very difficult task to crush the gooseberries sufficiently, unlessa proper crushing mill is employed. I here subjoin a plan of one I always use for crushing both gooseber- ries and currants. ‘The apparatus consists of a box ‘with four sides, but without either top or bottom. £7g.98. shows the ends of two rollers, 9 in. in diameter, and 12 in. long, each; and Jig. 99. shows the whole length of the same rollers, which ought to be made of good clean ashis for, if they be made of beech, making Gooseberry Wine. 543 the worm gets into them, and they soon become like a honey- - comb, which renders them unfit for service. The rollers must be grooyed the whole length of the surface; the grooves ought to be half an inch wide, and three eighths of an inch deep; an iron spindle passes through each roller, and upon these spin- dles there is, at each side of the box, a crank handle fixed by a nut, which screws on one end of each spindle. In jg. 98. ¢¢ show the ends of two boards, which go the whole length across the box from w to wu, fig. 99.,and from a hopper (v, fig. 98.) which guides the fruit between the rollers, and keeps it from getting behind them at ww. In fig. 98. x x show the ends of two pieces of board, which pass through mortises in the sides of the box, and act as scrapers to the rollers: y, fg 99. shows the whole length of the same pieces of wood. ‘The dimensions of the case or box-are, 4 ft. high, 19 in. by 12 in. inside. ‘The spindles for the rollers are seven eighths of an inch thick, and work through two plates (zz), which are let into the sides of the box, and are 2 in. wide by half an inch thick, and 16 in. long each. These plates are not only necessary for the spindles to work in, but they prevent the contraction and expansion of the sides of the box ; which, without this precaution, would sometimes con- tract, and jamb the rollers so close together that they would not turn ; and at other times would expand, and keep the roll- ers too far apart. I also send you the plan of the press I use, though I am afraid few persons will be found who will go to the expense of one of such power ; however, presses of a similar construction may be made of any size or power re- quired. In fg. 100. a is a screw, 3 ft. 9 in. long, and 2 in. in diame- ter, which works in the brass nut 0, let into the head-piece of the press on the under side: c¢ is a piece of cast iron, 4 in. by 2 in., which goes across the top of the fall-board, for the screw to work upon: d is a square iron clip that is fastened across the iron c, and under which is placed an iron collar, that is put upon the lower end of the press pin, and enables the pin to raise the fall-board, when the press pin or screw is turned back. ‘The head of this pin is 4 in. in diameter, and it has two holes through it, at right angles, through which the end of the lever is put when the press is worked. The lever is made of iron, and is 4 ft. 6 in. long, by 12 in. in diameter, and has a collar 6 in. long from one end, to prevent the lever from slipping too far through the head of the pin. A hole (/) which is three fourths of an inch in diameter, is bored through the bed, to let the juice run down into a pail, or any other fit vessel, placed underneath the bed: g is a groove 1 in, wide, and forms an inclined plane, which commences at 544 Improved Mode of h, fig. 101., where it is only half an inch deep, but it increases in depth, till it arrives at the hole f in jigs. 100. and 101., where it is an inch deep. ig.101. represents the bed detached from the -press, to show the form and course of the groove by which the juice runs off. When the fruit has been crushed, and has lain a proper time, it must be put into a large hair sieve, and when it has drained sufficient- ly, it must be laid upon _haircloths (made of horse hair): each cloth must be about a yard and a half long, by a yard wide, and must be carefully hemmed H | at the ends, to “ses . keep: them from ravelling. Lay a cloth on a wide board or table, and lay as much of the crushed fruit in the centre of it as you conveniently can; then double first one side of the cloth over the fruit, and afterwards the opposite side of the cloth over the first; then double one end over that, and, lastly, the other end over all. When this is done, place the cloth containing the fruit on the middle of the bed of the 10s, whole lenglh Fam Gforce aaa fy See PR ee a Re ee se Oe oN / / / Ny 4 making Gooseberry Wine. 545 press, and lay two or more upon the first (three in all, or as many as the press will hold), and then with the lever work the screw down as tight as you can. It will be necessary to watch the action of the press, to see that the fall-board de- scends perpendicularly ; for, if it does not, the patches must be shifted, or the fail-board will jam crosswise, which will in- crease the labour greatly, and also assist in wearing out the press. When the cloths are cleared of the fruit after they come out of the press, they must be hung across a line or rail: for, if they are allowed to lie together, they will heat in a very short time, like a fresh dunghill ; and, in a much shorter time than will be credited, will rot. After they are done with for the season, they must be carefully and thoroughly washed in different waters, and dried before they are put away. Every precaution must be taken to preserve them from moths, or they will, in a very short time, be entirely unfit for use, as the moth avpears to be very fond of them. Haircloth may be purchased at almost any sack and tilt warehouse. It may be observed, that the cloths, when folded with the fruit in them, are called patches ; and that these patches, when placed in the press, must be laid with the ends of the cloths undermost. The uprights or standards of the press must be made of heart of oak, or they will soon rot in the ground; and the other wooden parts of the press must be made of dry elm. Lam, Sir, yours, &c. W. GREEN, jun. Stepney, May, 1831. s s Vou, VIII.—No. 40. NN 546. Observations on several Arv. VIII. Observations on several Gardens in England. By Mr. W. SANDERS. (Continued from Vol. VII. p. 139.) Ever.y Houst, the seat of Sir John Ashley, Bart. — June 28. 1830. This place is much improved in appearance since I last saw it (in the summer of 1825); arising, in a great measure, from the rapid growth of the plantations which enclose the park, while the interior presents a more finished and orderly aspect, and evidently shows that it is under the care of an able manager. The kitchen-garden is a neat and well- arranged model, well worthy of imitation; the walls have been in part rebuilt, and have had 2 ft. added to their height. They are well stocked with fine healthy fruit trees. In the framing department, neat and compact pits have been erected for melons and cucumbers; the melons were growing luxuriantly in turf loam procured from Salisbury Plain, which appeared of an excellent quality. It may be here remarked what a wide field for improvement this exten- sive waste presents, and how many thousands of the almost starving population might be employed in the cultivation of this now comparatively useless tract of land. A great pro- portion of it is little inferior in quality to that alluded to above. It would afforda fair field for the introduction of the excellent system of cottage husbandry, which in a very short space of time would go far to ameliorate the condition of the industrious peasant, and to ease the shoulders of the farmers from that burden which now presses so heavily upon them, in the shape of poor’s rates. In a neighbouring parish, a similar plan has been pursued for some years by a noble’mar- quess, who has allotted a large garden to each of his cottages ; and the result has been, that the rates have not risen in any thing like the proportion they have done in other parishes around ; while the farmers, though at first much opposed to the plan, are now delighted with the good effects it has preduced. Much in this way might be done by private gentlemen in their respective neighbourhoods; and it would surely be worth the attention of the legislature, to devise some means to stem the tide of emigration, while so much remains to be done at home. But to return to the garden at Everly, Mr. Ross has, by considerable perseverance, collected a very respectable assortment of herbaceous plants, so ar- ranged in the beds they occupy as to present a succession of flowers during the season; while, as particular attention has been paid to their various heights, they meet the eye with a Gardens in England. BAT very pleasing effect. On leaving a well-kept lawn adjoining the house, I found some of the finest balsams in flower I have ever seen. Most of the flowers measured 23 in. in diameter, perfectly double, and with the petals laid out with all the regularity of a well-blown camellia. Mr. Ross’s cox- combs were also very fine. Amesbury House, Sir Edward Antrobus, Bart., near Ames- bury.— June 29. A small place; the house standing in the centre of a tastefully laid out lawn, interspersed with beds of shrubs and flowers in high keeping. It seems a march be- hind its fellows with respect to the choicer productions of Flora; probably because, from its secluded situation, the gardener is prevented from having a ready notice of the more. lately introduced ornamental flowers. ‘The kitchen-garden is surrounded by mud-built walls, about 7 ft. high, thatched on the top with straw, which projects about 6 or 8 in. The peach and plum trees were looking extremely well, and there was an excellent crop, with hardly the least speck of blight or mildew to be seen. Mr. Bike said they seldom failed of having a good crop; and he attributed that, and their very healthy appearance on such an otherwise exposed situation, to the thatch and warmth of the walls. The natural soil is chalk; but the borders had received a little assistance by the addition of a portion of fresh soil and manure. The projecting thatch may in a great degree accelerate the ripen- ing of the young wood, by preventing the ready escape of the heated air, which, in ordinary cases, has no barrier. These walls, while kept dry, are very durable, but of course do not stand nailing well; pegs were driven in at intervals, to which the trees were fastened. ‘The manner of erecting such walls is very simple. Two strong boards are bolted together to any desired width, according to what may be the intended thickness of the walls; and having prepared a firm found- ation, the frame formed by them is filled with loam or clay, mixed with a slight portion of gravel, which is beaten down firmly with an iron rammer; taking care, however, that the quantity put in at one time is not too great, as, in that case, the mass will not be properly consolidated, and afterwards may become liable to crack on becoming dry. ‘The loam or clay must not be more than just moist, or in that state in which it is dug. When dry, the whole may be plastered, and afterwards blackened, which would be an additional attracter of heat. Instead of thatch, projecting tiles might be used, and a wire or wood trellis to train the trees to. The whole might thus be rendered any thing but an unsightly object ; and, where bricks or stones are difficult to be obtained NN 2 548 Observations on several in the immediate neighbourhood, this description of wall will form an excellent substitute. Long ford Castle, the family residence of the Earl of Radnor. — July 1. A richly wooded park, presenting little variation of surface, and chiefly lying very flat. ‘The castle and gar- dens are situated on the banks of the river Avon, and part of the castle was begun to be rebuilt during the latter part of the late earl’s time, but the completion of it is for the present suspended. ‘The kitchen-garden contains nearly four acres, with excellent walls, and is in high keeping. On being ushered into it, an almost unparalleled scene presents itself. Nothing can exceed the superior arrangement, and the neat- ness and order observed in the forcing departments; the borders are covered with the gayest flowers, while on the walks there is not a single patch of weeds, or a bit of straw, to be seen. All is so well arranged, that little or no extra-care is requisite for keeping it in this state. The linings which surround the pits are covered with oak boards, lying on a gentle slope, supported by brickwork, which are of such lengths as to admit of two men placing them on the walk immediately around the pit, when the linings require renovation ; and over these boards the dung is wheeled, so that the walk receives no injury. Drains conduct the water collected from the roofs of the pits and houses to a tank, from which water is taken for the use of the garden. ‘The pits are built with double walls, the outer one pigeon-holed as high as the covers of the lining. In the interior wall are a number of holes for the admission of steam at pleasure, by with- drawing the plugs; .and the vacuity between the walls is about. 24 in. In these pits, pines, melons, and cucumbers were growing luxuriantly. ‘The arrangement of the whole garden was so superior, that it induced me to take a plan of it (which, through the kindness of Mr. Christie, I was enabled to do), thinking that such a model might be worthy the attention of gentlemen about to lay out or renovate their gardens. (See jig. 102. and its references.) ‘The wall trees had suffered severely these last two seasons by blight. The pleasure-grounds are intersected with romantic walks along the banks of the river, here and there having a delight- ful peep of the water and its opposite shore, until you are led to a small flower-garden, laid out some sixty or seventy years ago, which occupies the point between the Avon and a rivulet where they meet, as shown in the plan, fg. 103. This spot is delightfully retired, being shut in by wood on each side, and seems as if reserved as a last retreat from the busy scenes of life. Here is quietness only interrupted by the Gardens in England. 549 102 @, Pine stove, heated by hot-water pipes: the flue from it heating a mushroom-house (/) on Oidacre’s plan. 6, A plant stove. cand d, Vineries. e, A green-house, J, Mushroom-house. g, Cucumber and melon pits. h, Pine pit. 422, Common dung frames. 4, Potting shed. 1, Pot-shed. m, Coal and cinder shed, nm, Peach-houses. 0, Compost ground. p, Pump. q, American cranberry patch. r, A brook, which runs along under the east wall. ss, Walls which form the boundary. z¢ zt, Quarters under culinary vegetables. uu, Garden walls. vv, Beds of standard and dwarf roses intermixed. w w, Beds appropriated for choice herbaceous plants, new annuals, pelargoniums, &c. a ax, Walks. y, Gateway for carts, &c. NN 3 550 On several Gardens in England. 193 ey eee ee ca) 2S BS sf Or ee dL atau f jg uli EEC acl Ui ere } = a | E= oe = a, The river Avon. 6, The brook represented in fig. 102. by the letter v. cc, Plantations. dd, Lawn. e e, Flower-beds. f f, Woods, which connect the flower-garden with the park and castle. V4 ge as os margin of rhododendrons and other American shrubs, which connect the woods with the lawn. hh, &c., Roots and stumps of trees, ornamented with elegant creepers. z, A temple, or covered seat, dedicated to Flora. k, A sundial. Design for a Gardener's House. 551i gentle breeze, or murmuring of the waters, or an occasional splash of the finny tribe; and these are hardly sufficient to break the spell which such a situation casts over the mind. Such an appendage to the mansions of the great (wherever attainable) is, in my opinion, truly Jesrale This garden contains an exceedingly good collection of herbaceous and other flowers, and is in equally high keeping with the other portions of the grounds. Several stumps of large old trees, covered with creepers, such as Verbéna chameedrifolia, &c., are introduced in it with very good effect; but the beds appeared too crowded to show themselves*properly. Lady Radnor, who is a warm encourager of horticulture, sent her gardener to Paris, in the summey of 1829, to see the principal gardens, &c., there, and to collect what he possibly could that was new and rare. ; Iam, Sir, yours, &c. London, April 13. 1831. Wm. SANDERS. Art. IX. Design for a Gardener's House, containing Five Rooms and an Office ; adapted for being connected with the Wall of a Kitchen-garden. A VALUED friend, an architect and an enthusiastic amateur of horticulture, now travelling in Scotland, has elsewhere, in this Magazine, suggested to us the propriety of giving plans of cardeners? house connected with the walls of fle Hiden garden. Country gentlemen, he says, cannot so readily conceive how the detached plans of dwellings, which we have given in our Encyclopedia of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Archi- tecture, can be applied to the sort of lodges which they generally erect as lean-tos to the walls of their kitchen-gardens. We intend to comply with his suggestion; and, with the assistance of our architectural draughtsman, to give eight de- signs in this Magazine, totally different from any in the work just mentioned, “and especially calculated for the four sides and the four corners of kitchen-garden walls. Like true freemasons, we shall commence with a design for the east wall cf a garden. This desion contains a cellar floor (fig. 104. c), in which are an under-kitchen or wash-house (az), and a beer-cellar (b). In the former is an oven, the flue of which is conducted under the kitchen floor, and that of the passage (c), gardener’s office (d) adjoining, and parlour (/), for the purpose of heating them in the manner described in Vol. VI. p. 157., to which we beg NN 4 ; 552 Design for a Gardener's House. TA YY GF es awh RON ie Vi; nel . Design for a Gardener’s House. 553 to refer our readers for the more complete understanding of this plan. There is also a boiler, the flue of which is like- wise conducted under these floors. All the rooms of this dwelling are on one floor (fg. 104. 8), which will be rendered perfectly dry by the cellarage below, as well as by being raised six steps (3 ft.) above the surface of the garden. ‘This floor shows the back entrance (c), gardener’s office (d), fitted up with book shelves, and a large desk, with drawers for seeds under; and having two doors, so that the men may come in and receive payment by the door which opens into the back entrance. There are a kitchen (e), parlour (f), master’s bed-room (g), two other bed-rooms (4 and z), and an entrance porch from the garden (£). It will be observed that the window of the parlour, and that of the master’s bed-room, look into the garden, which ought always to be the case in such houses, for the convenience of inspection both by night and by day. At the back of the house there should be a lean-to, in which may be placed the coal-bin (/), wood-bin (m), dusthole (n), and privy (0). A pigsty might easily be added, and also a cow-house; but the latter appendage is generally better in the yard of the demesne farm. In some cases it may be desirable to have the fruit-cellar under the gardener’s house, and in this plan it might very easily be formed under g or d; in the latter case, limiting the course of the flues to the floors of e and c. The construction of this dwelling, and the materials to be 554 Cast-Iron Flower Stakes, employed in it, we leave to be determined by local circumstances. We have shown the roof and the chimney-tops low, because it is sel- dom desirable to render houses in such situ- ations conspicuous objects; but should this be not the case, handsome chimney-pots of arti- ficial or natural stone, such as jigs. 105, 106, or 107., may be added, with or with- out basement plinths. These, and numerous other handsome forms of chimney-pots, are manufactured in London by Austin, at very moderate prices; and they might be imitated, either in real stone, or in earthenware, at any good pottery. ArT. X. Notice of some new Cast-Iron Flower Stakes, and some small Wrought-Iron Stakes for Peas or Annuals, invented by Robert Mallet, Jun. Esg. Communicated by Mr. Mazer. Sir, Some days since, I sent you some patterns of flower stakes, which I have lately got made, and of which, I believe, I am the first inventor. ‘The cast-iron ones (jg. 110.) are, I think, an improvement upon Cottam and Hallen’s (which were figured in Vol. VII. p. 284.), as they can be cast much longer than is possible with theirs (the weights of both being equal), and they combine great strength with lightness. ‘They take also a good grip or hold of the earth, from their extended wings at bottom. I sent also a small wrought-iron pea or annual stake chiefly intended for culinary or sweet peas, either in hedges or clumps. /’gs. 108. and 109. will fully explain 108 their application with the addition of wires. Fig. 109, is intended to represent part of a sweet-pea hedge. Each stake is twisted cold at a, 90°; by which means, it opposes its flat face to the earth in which it is stuck (a d), and in the proper position to resist any motion of the hedge sidewise. The con- necting cords may be either of wire or twine; when they are for sweet peas to be sown every season, they may be permanent, and of wire; but when they are to be moved they should be of twine, boiled, previously to being strained, ina ‘solution of Indian rubber in pyroligneous ether (a product of the pyroligneous acid makers, and known on the Continent by the name of pyroxylic spirit). The expense of this is trifling: 14 0z. of Indian rubber and 14 pint of the ether will saturate 10 lbs. of twine. The twine need never be varnished again, and will last many seasons; is per- fectly impervious to wet, and is not affected by hygrometric changes in the atmosphere; so that, when once strained tight by the stakes at 6, it will remain so. I have these stakes in use, and they answer admirably, and look exceedingly neat. I should think, about London, where pea stakes are so dear, this would be the cheapest plan mar- ket-gardeners, &c., could adopt. Occasionally, in very long ranges, a stay or two in the length may be placed as shown at cc. It is obvious that these stakes are applicable also to clumps or baskets, but the cord should then be arranged spirally through the holes. They are much stronger than the wire things generally used, and may be varied to any size or shape. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. ' _ Ropert Mater, 94. Capel Street, Dublin, July 4. 1832. > 556 Cast-Iron and Wrought-Iron Tue stake fg. 110. is 7 ft. long, and weighs 1 cwt. 8 Ibs. per dozen. J%g.111. is 5 ft. 2 im. in length, and weighs 2qrs. 13 lbs. per dozen. Fig. 112. is 3 ft. 8 in. in height, and weighs 3 qrs. 9lbs. per dozen. It will be observed, by com- paring the above weights and heights with those of Messrs. Cottam and Hallen’s cast-iron flower stakes, as given in the succeeding article, that Mr. Mallet’s are somewhat lighter. Mr. Mallet has subsequently made the improvement in the form of the foot of round stakes (such as those of Mr. Cottam), indicated by the sketch, marked a, on the opposite page. Stakes thus formed will weigh less, and take a firmer hold of the ground. — Cond Art. XI. Notice of the Cast-Iron and Wrought-Iron Flower Stakes manufactured by Messrs. Cottam and Hallen, London. By the CoNDUCTOR. -Kwowine the introduction of iron stakes in flower-gardens to be a very great improvement, in point both of economy and neatness; in order that our readers may know the sizes and prices, and also compare the appearance of those of Mr. Mallet with those of Messrs. Cottam and Hallen, we have given figures of the different sorts manufactured by the latter firm. Fig. 113. shows the four sizes of cast-iron stakes, manu- factured by Messrs. Cottam and Hallen. ‘The height of the first (a) is 7 ft., its weight per dozen 2 cwt. 1 qr., and the price per dozen, 25s.; 6 is 6 ft. high, weighs 1 cwt. 2 qrs. 22 lbs. per dozen, and costs 18s. 6d.; ¢ is 5 ft. high, weighs 1 cwt. 1 qr. 16 lbs. per dozen, and costs 16s. 6d.; and d is 4 ft. high, weighs 4.0 lbs. per dozen, and costs 10s. 6d. Fig. 114. shows the different sizes of wrought-iron rods let . into cast-iron sockets at bottom. ‘The height of the first (e) is 6 ft. 6in., and the price is 10s. 6d. per dozen; of the second (f) 5 ft. 6 in., the price is 9s. 6d. per dozen; of the third (g) 5 ft., the price is 8s. Gd.; of the fourth (/) 4 ft. 6 in., the price is 8s.; of the fifth (2) the height is 4 ft., and the price 7s.; of the sixth (4) the height is 3 ft. 6 in., and the price per dozen | 6s. 6d.; of the seventh (/) the height is 3 ft., and the price 6s.; of the eighth (m) the height is 2 ft. 6 in., and the price 5s. 6d.; and the ninth (7) is 2 ft. in height, and the price per dozen is 5s. 557 Flower Stakes. 558 Newly invented Hoe. Art. XII. Notice of a newly invented Hoe. By Joun Booxer, Esq. Sir, I sxc leave to send you a sketch of a hoe (fig.115.) which I invented for my own use, and which I do not recollect to have seen among the implements figured and described in your En- cyclopedia. This hoe cuts every way; backwards, forwards, and on both sides. It does not remove much earth; it cuts best as it moves diagonally, backwards or forwards; but cuts well moved in any direction. I find it particularly useful among things planted in rows. My gardener, a Russian, who has a great dread of novelty, after he had got over his first hor- Transplanting large Trees. 559 rors at the sight of this new implement, reluctantly consented to try it in the garden; and, at last, liked it so well, as to order several for general use. Should you wish to have one, I shall have great pleasure in sending it to you. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Cronstadt, Russia, June 4:. 1832. Joun Booker. WE shall be happy to receive a hoe, which we will send to Messrs. Cottam and Hallen’s, to be manufactured for general use. We shall be still more obliged by the various articles mentioned by our liberal and benevolent correspondent, as suitable for our Encyclopedia, of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Architecture. — Cond. Art. XIII. On Transplanting large Trees, Pruning, &c. By Mr. Howpen. Sir, I am sorry to see, in a late Number of the Gardener’s Magazine, that the art of gardening is falling into decay ; that many respectable nursery and seedsmen have become, or are becoming, insolvent; and that more head-gardeners are out of employ than the nurserymen can find work for. This, I should think, will have a good effect in making all upstart gardeners humble and submissive. I also find, by the review of Mr. Ellis, that there has been a Sir Henry Steuart, who has written a book, wherein he stigmatises the generality of gardeners as a set of self-sufficient ignoramuses. This is indeed “ the unkindest cut of all.” The gardener, who has all his life studied the nature of the vegetable king- dom, who can call ten thousand plants by their proper names, and who knows their nature, can no more bean ignorant man than the officer in an army of soldiers who can call on every one of his army by name to do his duty. But up starts a Sir Henry Steuart, who, like a Sir Hew Dalrymple, snatches the victory out of the hands of the poor operative. Allow me to lend a helping hand to retrieve the falling fortunes of the poor defenceless gardeners, and to show that we are not so very ignorant as he supposes us to be. Sir Henry Steuart has written a book in a fair legible hand; for this reason, he has had a better, or rather a more expensive, education than most gardeners: but, as to his inventing the machine he talks of, the thought is quite-laughable ; the machine was invented before I was born, and any practical gardener could invent a 4560 Transplanting large Lrees, -bettersin five:minutes, after seeing the size of the trees to be sxemovedsvr he miller or warehouseman’s truck, -or» trolly, on-ardarge-séale, is a better machine than that-of Sir, Henry “Steuart. s,Such a truck, when brought down to the balance, sests-on-another. pair of wheels, and may be transported any where.» The origin of the idea is as simple as seeing a boy carrying a young shrub on his spade to transplant it; but when the shrub or tree is large, a pair of wheels, or even-two pair, must be fixed to the spade, and the spade must be large and strong in proportion ; four ropes fastened near the top of the tree, and to four staples at the corners of the spade bit, will hold the tree as upright as the mainmast of a ship. The spade handle need not be fixed permanently to the blade or bit, but may be taken out or put in at pleasure, like a hand- spike for weighing a ship’s anchor. Sir Henry Steuart has been very fortunate in having so many fine old trees left him by his ancestors, who, it seems, were so “ ignorant and self sufficient” as to plant them all in the wrong places. It will be well if his successors be not so ignorant and self-sufficient as to think they are all in their wrong places now; and if they do not invent a machine to remove them all back to their old stations. As poor Richard says —~ « T never saw an oft-removed tree, Nor yet an oft-removed family, That throve so well as those who settled be.” While a tree, or a man, is young, and full of sap and life, they may and ought to be transplanted into various nurseries ; but it is impossible to transplant an old man or old tree without, iving them such a shock, or check, as they seldom or never get the better of. It is impossible to transplant a tree of any, age, without damaging some of the roots; and they require a similar deprivation of branches to the loss of roots. . ‘This leads me on to that queer word physology, I think they call it. Some people are of opinion that the branches, twigs, and, léaves assist the growth of timber; and a certain. author,, Mr. Withers, compares the leaves of the tree to its mouth, ; I would advise such authors to shut their mouths till they can, open them. to better purpose... I could have excused. him if, he had called them, nostrils; but mouths—oh, shocking! 1. should rather call them the mere excrements of the tree, else. why does the tree discharge them annually. If the leayes of, a tree are its mouths, what shall we call the flowers and fruits)? Answer;,, they are all alike the offspring of the tree... As the, blessed St. Paul, says, “they bear not the root, but the root them.” tree in full vigour often kills its own offspring; thes oF a? Pruning, &c. - 56k weak underline branches ; and this is called natural pruning : but the skilful pruner assists nature; he does not wait till the branches are dead, any more than the skilful vine-grower waits till the berries are dead before he thins the bunches of grapes, &c. If fine clear timber is as desirable as fine flowers and fruits are, then pruning and thinning are necessary operations. It is natural that a tree should have leaves; and it is natural that a sheep should have wool: the former protects its parent from the scorching summer sun, and the latter from the winter storms; they both assist in carrying off superabundant sap, and yet may you deprive the sheep of its fleece in the middle of winter, or a tree of all its leaves in the middle of summer, if artificial means are used to pro- tect the sheep from catching cold, and the tree from being blistered by the sun. I have said that the branches are merely the offspring of the tree, and I add that they draw up sap only to enrich themselves. ‘I’his can be proved by looking at an apple tree grafted upon a crab, or the weeping ash grafted on the com- mon ash: they are complete bloodsuckers. I have seen a weeping ash, not quite so large as an Egyptian pyramid, but getting on that way like; while its foster-mother was not fit for a ladder-pole: and I have seen a common ash, planted at the same time, with a top that barely makes room for three rooks’ nests, yet with a trunk fit for sawing into eleven-inch planks. When a less succulent graft is introduced into a more succulent stock, the case is reversed, the stock over- grows the graft, and kills it in a few years; on the same principle that trees kill their own offspring, in the way called natural pruning: witness the cytisus budded on the laburnum, and a thousand other examples. I believe this system of physiology will be new to most of your readers ; but it is the true system for all that. It is a reform in the old system; and, like the brave Earl Grey, “I will either stand or fall by the bill.” I shall not, however, go the length of some, to cry ‘ the whole bill, and nothing but the bill:” it must be mended in a committee of practical men, who know at what time to shear a sheep, and when to prune a tree; and not by “ ignorant and _ self-sufficient baronets,” who read books, and write books, and yet do not know how to prune a currant bush. Malheur a vous, con- ducteurs aveugles! My sheet is filled up, and, of course, my article, as you call it, is long enough; but I shall come to the scratch again, if I receive another call, and now remain, Yours, in good troth, Heath House, April, 1832. Joun Howpben. Vou, VIII. — No. 40. oo 562 Remarks on laying out Ane XIy, Remarks on laying out and managing Flower-Gardens. By Mr. Ropert ERRINGTON. Sir, _ L.reen pleasure in complying with your request as to send- ing you some remarks on flower-gardens, and shall be glad if there should be any thing in the following observations worthy a place in your useful work. I am, lamers afraid that I am not competent to do justice to the subject; and thinking it very probable that I may fall into errors in the course of what I am about to write, I can only say, that I shall feel much obliged to any of your readers who will ey Sage them out. As to situation, distance from the mansion, &c., I can say little ; these matters being, of course, regulated, in a consider- able degree, by the direction of the principal walk, and some other affairs, frequently of a merely local character. I would, however, if possible, place the flower-garden a little on one side of the principal walk, not far from the mansion, and yet have it so contrived as to be almost entirely concealed from both mansion and walk; for partial concealment (it will be admitted, I think) gives a zest to beauties of this kind. In such a situation, I would have it so managed as to present to the eye from the main walk, externally, a series of boldly irregular masses, having considerable breadth, and united in some degree to the scenery around by a few single. trees, bushes, or smaller groups, which require, as you well observe, considerable taste in their disposal, and are frequently carried to an unpleasant extreme. ‘They are, however, indispensable in some situations, according to Price, and other authors of acknowledged repute, as doing away with extreme distinct- ness, and. blending the scenery. ! A walk, of somewhat less’ width dite the principal ‘one; should embrace the parterre; and this walk, as before ob- served, should be well screened with handsome plantations. The masses on the outside, especially if next the park, I would plant chiefly with timber trees, having'a base or under- growth. of holly, thorn, laurel, privet, &e.,. to be eventually. insulated, or grouped on grass ‘here andither e, as taste might suggest, and forming a gradual transition to the park scenery. ‘The masses. on tlie Gthiae side, or margin, of the parterre, I would have composed, for the most part, of American plants, roses, and choice flowering shrubs; and. interspersed, here and there, with ornamental trees of middle height,:tree ‘roses, &es: and here, I:think, might find’ a place such of the herbaceous tribes:as are found too high for the beds3:suchias and managing Flower- Gardens. 563 tall phloxes, asters, georginas, hollyhocks, &c., not,as prin- cipals, but thinly to tower, at intervals, over the shrubs. ‘The masses may have an undergrowth of Portugal laurel, yew, rhododendron, and other sombre-tinted evergreens, to heighten the contrast, and render the parterre somewhat striking) as well as gay. These masses should not, I think, be formed inva continuous line, but be broken at intervals, on the park’ sidé to give glimpses occasionally of picturesque views, andon the parterre side to exhibit a tempting peep or two from dif: ferent positions; which breaks may serve as points of ingress and egress, and, as it were, steal in among the trees. ‘The margin of grass between the parterre and the main walk might be so managed by planting, that the two points of junction between the main walk and the parterre walk should not be seen at the same time from any situation. J As to the interior arrangements, the margin of grass be- tween the parterre and the side masses should, in my opinion, have considerable breadth; say, average from 10 ft. to 15 ft. and the terminating beds should project rather irregularly on this breadth. The points of the surrounding masses, also, should be made to jut inwards occasionally, to establish a ‘kind of connection with the parterre; allowing sufficient dis- ‘tinctness to the parterre as a whole, and yet doing away, as much as possible, with form for form’s sake, and with detached meagreness. It appears to me that, in the style here recom- amended, much of the gracefulness of a parterre depends on 2 certain irregular breadth of grass being preserved in dis- posing the beds. The idea of breadth in a parterre may ‘seem ridiculous; but when the ground appropriated to-this ‘purpose is frittered away in projecting angles, with tree roses -and other plants on the grass filling up every situation where an opportunity offers, though forms may be accurate, and the -ground may be well furnished, there will be little gracefulness. For beds on gravel, I must confess, I have but very little inclination ; and as to those on grass, I may here remark:that ‘the general effect does not so much depend on the precise -ficure of each individual bed, as on the outline and character given to the grass in the disposition of those beds. A great deal jof. the insipidity which is so often the subject of compiaintcin flower-gardens arises, I have no doubt, from that lumpishness -and want,of figure whichothe surface of the plants presents. And ;here:I;may observe, that: I coneur:inothe remarks to othat .effectmade some time ago: by; MroSpencé:(VoleeVi. -pe408.),;and. am convinced:that considerable iattention must obe paid!to-figure as well as: colour. «I may.also addsthatothe cobseryations | here«made shave reference chiefly:to.changeable 002 564 Remarks on laying out flower-gardens; and that a regular plan should be adopted, which would guarantee to the possessor a continual and com- plete succession of flowers, both in the mingled beds and in the masses, all through the season. But this, of course, cannot be effected, in the manner here represented, by a gardener who has forcing, kitchen-gardening, and shrubberies to look after, but must form a province by itself; and the man who will undertake to do justice to a flower-garden, and make it what it ought to be, will find his head and hands fully em- ployed all the year round. Something might be here said about the division of labour in our profession; but, as old Richard says, “Folks don’t preach sermons at a fair.” In the kind of garden here described, a person of good taste (except the merely scientific man) would not stop to enquire whether the number of species consisted of fifty or five hundred, provided he met with well-balanced and har- and managing lower-Gardens. 565 monious colours, and a beautifully playful variety of figure : to effect this, it appears to me that though, as to figure, each bed should be complete in itself; yet, both as to figure and to colour, each should bear a proper relation and subserviency to the whole. Botanical arrangements, rosaries, &c., I admire as much as any one, in their place; that is, provided we are not compelled to look upon them, and pass through them, at all times of the year: but when masses of flowers of fleeting character are made to form outlines and principal features in the scenery, I think a gaudy mass for a few weeks a sorry compensation for lumpish forms and months of barrenness. It will be seen that the garden here described is fitted to a seat of considerable pretensions. The parterre style is, how- ever, applicable to a place of almost any size, and, perhaps, to any circumstances, except where a connection with the buildings would impose a peculiar character on the parterre. 116 866 » Frotics at Luscombe, : A sketch (fig. 116.) of the style recommended accompa- = nies this paper. Iam not aware that it has any particular © title, but I suppose that it may be called the geometric wavy = style. I am aware that it has no pretensions to novelty; but = J] think that it is not in very general use. * At some early opportunity I will add further remarks on - the disposition of the colours, and the modes of accelerating and retarding certain flowers so to prolong the gaiety of the parterre. I remain, Sir, yours, &Xc. Oulton Park, Jan. 16. 1832. Rozert ErrRinectTon. Art. XV. List of Exotics which are now living in the Gardens of Charles Hoare, Esq., at Luscombe, near Dawlish, in Devonshire. Communicated by Mr. Ricuarp Saunvers, Gardener and Planter there. Sir, Your invitation, Vol. VII. p. 722., has induced me to do what I have long contemplated doing, that is, to send you a list of exotics which are here living in the open air. It is now many years since I turned some of them out (which, you will be pleased to observe, is indicated by one of the columns in . the ist); consequently, they have endured several severe win- = ters. During the severe frost of January, 1820, the thermo- meter here was as low as 15°; and also during the frost of -= January, 1830, it was as low as 12°; but notwithstanding this, --and several other severe winters which these plants have en- - dured, the greater part of them have grown most luxuriantly, and flowered abundantly. A single plant of the double white camellia had 600 flowers open on it at one time (March, 1831); and, on the 25th of March last, another plant of the == -double white camellia had open on it upwards of 200 flowers. : The most requisite and essential thing to be done in pro- tecting exotics during severe frost is, to prevent any frost pene- _. trating to their roots, by keeping them warm. Their stems =sand main branches should also be well protected with fine -hay or: dry moss, to’ prevent the least possibility of their “juices being frozen. I very often experience the mortifica- “tion of ‘having some of the tops of their branches killed by “severe frost, though this does but little injury to the health -of the:plants, and-they very soon recover their former vigour sand beauty when the fine spring weather sets in. * [ee RR ORE SRR as I am, Sir, yours, &e. . RrcHarpD SAUNDERS. Luscombe, Devon, April 23. 1832. 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E681 © = ct 2 RULAA ca eerie Vl 2 = S,}STULO]PP ITAL VS : 8o8T pe aa ey _ pat ayquop g 8o8L = - ayy sqnop | S181 2 = | (pag apsuts ‘eorupdeh meygueD oL8L S xe S snyejjaquin snyjuedesy |: Ges Ean i P eyejnpun E28 S a o BULISSISOULIO; STIT[AIE UW BESTE |e 5 = BAIQDOMII vIskoly LISL |Celecd mn ‘Joa “Be, pxeyH) snAydosre 1043) “iry uodo : p : ayy UL : = poequrjd . 7 ) e Us MM” ae =o 568 Green-house and Hot-house Plants Art. XVI. List of certain Green-house and Hot-house Plants which have stood out during one or more Winters, in the open Air, in the Garden of Robert Mallet, Esq. at Drumcondra, near Dublin. Sir, Communicated by Mr. Matter, Jun. I senp you a list of some plants which stand out with me, at Drumcondra, near Dublin. Those marked with an asterisk have been out for two years or more, the others only one. Aquatics. *Richardia (Calla) ethidpica. In water, 2 ft. deep ; out three years ; flowers every year. *Jussieta' speciosa. A hot-house perennial, in an open pond; has not shown flower. 1 Aponogéton distachyon. In a yase. monostachyon. Ina yase. *Sagittaria lanceolata. In an open pond; flowers every year. Plants not on the Wall; that is, Standards or Herbaceous. Yucca serrulata. aloifolia. * Melia Azedarach. *Fiachsia. All the species, except arboréscens, which I have tried several times, and have never been able to get to stand: I had one large specimen killed by even the last mild winter. Mesembryanthemum. 97 species, on rockwork, with some species of Crassula, Agave, Cotyledon, _&e. Sempervivum arbéreum. On rock- work, *Solanum bonariénse. *Opuntia Ficus indica. work. On rock- Bambisa arundinacea. Growing in peat and pond mud, 7 ft. high. *Peeonia Moittan, var. papaveracea. Acacia lophantha. Lycopédium dénsum. work. *Tradescantia crassifolia. * Acapanthus umbellatus. * E\chium candicans. formosum. Brugmansia suavéolens. _—- Vigor- ous; watered with dung water occasionally. Justicia Adhatoda. *Veronica decussata. Davyallia canariénsis. On_rock- work; the soil peat; grows vi- gorously. On rock- On a Southern Aspect. *Corree‘a alba. Camella japdoniea var. myrtifolia. Sickly ; the situation damp. *Schinus JZolle. Polygala latifolia. Melianthus coccineus. A new spe- cies from the Cape. Ascleépias [Gomphocarpus] arborés- cens. Acacia salicifolia. *decurrens (var. glauca.) lophantha. *Lagerstroe’mia indica. Taxus elongata. Sophora tomentosa. *O%lea europee‘a. With Cuscuta nipalénsis on it, which flowered abundantly last July and August. * Daphne odora. Rascus andrégynus. *Pinica Granatum, &c. *Eriobotrya japonica. Maurandya Barclayana. antirrhiniflora. semperflorens. These mauran- dyas require a dry situation, and to be covered with sand, or turf mould, in winter. Lophospérmum erubéscens. * Myrtus romana, and most of the common yarieties. *Passiflora cerulea. 1200 sq. ft. *ceerulea racemosa. *ceertlea alata. *Colvill. Covers above hardy at Drumcondra, near Dublin. 569. *Passiflora chinénsis. All these spe- ~ cies flower well out, and need but ‘ little protection during winter. - edulis. Now in flower, with fruit set; grown from a layer of last year. Layers of the Passi- flora edulis, planted early in spring, on a south wall, will afford a nearly constant supply of its grateful fruit during the year; and will save the very great room which a single fruiting plant of it takes up *Lonicera flava. a Py americana. *Pelargonium peltatum, 6 ft. high. I have sixty species and varieties of pelargoniums;’ large plants planted out, which I intend to remain to take their chance. for next winter, as many such stood out uninjured in Livingston’s nur= sery, at the south of Dublin, and also at the Trinity College gar- den, last year. Citrus Aurantium. sickly. Wistaria Consequana. | *Cissus antarctica. A most desir= able climber, in a fine aspect. | in a house. *Melaletica linearis. *hypericifolia. lanceolata. Délichos lignosus. *Lonicera chinénsis. From seed; On an Eastern Aspect. *A'ster argophyllus, 12 ft. high. *Pittdsporum Tobira: *Clématis calycina. Thea Bohea. *aristata. *viridis. * Artemisia ramosa. * Rubus roszefolius. Malva capénsis. Pistacia atlantica. * Huphorbia mellifera, *Calampelis scabra. *Leonotis Leonurus. *Lavandula dentata. *Ceanothus africanus. *Tarchonanthus camphoratus. Globularia longifolia. Convolvulus linearis. Colutea frutéscens. Péntzia flabelliformis. Royéna hirsuta. Cluytia pulchélla. *Cupréssus péndula. *Jasminum revolutum. * Salvia africana. * Aloysia citriodora. *Céstrum Parqui. The garden in which these plants are growing is one mile north of Dublin; its surface is about twenty-five feet above the level of the sea, and it slopes gradually to the south, with an inclination of about one in twenty. All the above plants, with the exceptions of the Camélla and Citrus, are in good health. The roots of all are covered about six inches in depth with light dry turf mould in winter; which, after very wet weather is removed, and dry oubeneated: Some of the more tender are protected by mats, but most are left exposed the whole winter. ‘The mesembryanthemums are on a rockwork, with the interstices filled with pebbles and a little earth, and are growing luxuriantly. Most of them were in full faweb about a month since. “dot Lam, Sir, yours, &e. ond Dublin, August 6.1832. Roper: > Maret rot Ne joma sol’O i nO seta bn wl test y bashouds ‘570 Autumnal Sowing of Annuals. Art. XVII. On sowing annual Flower Seeds in the Autumn, in ~~ order to have them flower early in the Spring. By R. T. Sir, Permit me, through the medium of your pages, to call the attention of gardeners to the sowing of annual flower seeds in the autumn, in order to have them flower early in the spring. The superiority of autumn-sown lettuces and cauliflowers is already well known, but not so (generally speaking) that of annual flowers. Notwithstanding; the latter is equally as worthy of attention as the former. I have followed the prac- tice for several years, and have since read of it; but I never saw it till I began it myself, though Ido not presume to think but that some others had done it before, though they did not give it the publicity it deserved. My method is this :— About the middle of September I sow such sorts as I desire, for in- stance, Schizanthus pinnatus and pdrrigens, Coredpsis tinc- toria, China aster, Malope trifida, Gilia capitata, Commelina ceeléstis, Delphinium sinénse, Spanish pink, Clarkza pul- chélla, Hibiscus africanus, Verbéna Aubletza, with many others, in pots in the open ground, or in a cold frame, and, when large enough, I prick them into other pots. If only to plant out in spring, a few in a 32-pot of each sort is sufficient. On the appearance of damp weather, I put them into a frame, and give all the air I can, without exposing them to the fogs or rains. If I am afraid of severe weather, such as I cannot keep out of the frame without too much covering, I remove them to an airy part of the green-house, where they remain till the beginning of March, at which time (if they have be- come too thick in the pots) I shift them singly into 60s, ready to plant out as soon as the weather is mild enough. When this is the case, I plant one in each place. I find that they will flower in far greater perfection than any sown afterwards in the ground, and in some sorts full two months sooner. _ If I have more plants than I want for the flower-garden, I shift a few into 48s, and put them into some of the forcing-houses, where they soon flower, and make a very pretty appearance at so early a period as to allow me to have some plants of Schizanthus pinnatusand porrigens in bloom for the last month, and others are just coming into flower to succeed them. May 3. 1832. Iam, Sir, yours, &c., RT. Art. XVIII. On the Culture of the Ranunculus. By A VILLAGE SCHOOLMASTER. Sir, I am a lover of floriculture, and have read the communi- cations of Messrs. Tyso and ‘Thompson on the culture of the Culture of the Ranunculus. 571 Turkish ranunculus, in your Magazine, with great pleasure. The former writer’s plan is an excellent one for procuring seed, as the experience of the last growing season enables me to testify; having pursued it, and having now fine healthy pericarps from varieties from which I never before succeeded in obtaining a single seed. What sort of flowers these seeds will produce, I hope to be able to tell you by this time next year. You will think that very soon; but I mean to treat them in the same way I procured flowers this June, from seed sown last October. Some time early in October, 1831, a head of seed, from a tolerably thickly petaled light semi- double ranunculus, was sown in a square pan of twelve-inch sides by four deep; at each corner was a pipe luted to the sides, open at top and bottom, forthe purpose of watering the earth, without disturbing the seeds, or allowing a crust to form on the surface, through frequent watering from a water- pot rose in the usual way. In the middle was a hole for allowing the superfluous water to drain away. About a fortnight or so after sowing, the seeds came up (here I should state the pan was put into a cucumber frame, with a couple of seed cucumbers only on the vines, and no heat but that afforded by the solar rays): as soon as they had vege- tated, the glasses were kept close, in order to take the ad- vantage of the heat of the sun, to force them as much as possible. By the end of November they were an inch high, and I removed them into a room facing the south, in which a fire and warm air stove were kept for about six hours each day. ‘There they drew towards the light, and began to get of a sickly yellow by the beginning of February. On Valentine’s day | made my cucumber hill, and a week afterwards, when the heat was well up, I put my pan into it. The seedlings recovered immediately, grew away vigorously, and threw up strong flower stems at the end of April. I then removed them, and placed them against a south-east wall in the open air, in which situation they have flowered, and are at this moment loaded with strong healthy heads of seed. The plan is nothing more than an extension of Mr. Sweet’s plan of ‘flowering tulips unusually quickly, extended to another tribe of florist’s flowers. I have been equally successful with pinks, although not precisely in the same mode. A VILLAGE ScHOOLMASTER. London (being now in town), ON Fuly BO. 1832. 572 Ranunculus parnassifolius and O’xalis floribinda, Art. XIX. On the Cultivation of Raninculus parnassif olius and O’zalis floribtinda. By Mr. Joun Menzies, Gardener to Chris- topher Rawson, Esq., Hope House, near Halifax. Sir, Ranvu’ncuwus parnassifolias of your Hortus Britannicus, p- 230., was introduced in 1769, and is now very rarely met with, on account of the difficulty of preserving it from the attacks of snails and slugs in the spring months. I have for the last four years used (for the preservation of this rare and beautiful plant) a pot or snail trap (jg. 117.), of the same 117 composition as a common garden pot, all in 3 one piece. ‘The trap is 14in. in diameter, AZ and 6 in. deep; the plant is planted inside, bees) at a, which is without bottom, and allows CAN | the roots to penetrate through. ‘The divi- { sion 0 is joined at the bottom without any holes, merely for holding water. ‘The trap is then sunk nearly on a level with the sur- face of the ground, in a situation where it is shaded from the midday sun: the water effectually prevents either snails or slugs reaching the plant. ‘The soil used is equal parts of hazelly loam, vegetable mould, and bog earth, in which the plant grows luxuri- antly, throwing up flower stems from 10 to 12in. high. It is propagated by seeds. The trap should be covered in winter with leaves, to prevent its being broken by the frost. In the bed with the Raninculus I have grown pyrolas, cypripediums, trilliums, Panax trifolia, Trientalis europea and americana, Rubus pis- tillatus, arcticus, and Chamzemorus; Soldanélla alpina, Cluszz, minima, and montana; Anemone alpina, patens, acutipétala, Hallerz, vernalis, and zarcissiflora: and I have planted, in a little frame near it, Epigee'a répens, Pol¥gala paucifolia, Rho- dodéndron Chameecistus and lappénicum, Andromeda tetra- gona, Anthyllis erinacea, Parnassia caroliniana and asarifolia, Thalictrum anemondoides, Thalictrum anemonoides flore pléno, Gentidna vérna, alpina, and Saponaria alba; Jeffersonza diphylla, and Soldanélla minima alba. O’xalis floribanda Hort. Brit., p.185.[rosea Add. Sup. p.595.] was introduced in 1826 from South America. This plant has _ a singular fleshy root, quite different from the other species of the same genus; and, as it possesses extraordinary beauty when in flower, perhaps the following mode of culture may be worthy the attention of some of your readers: — On an Culture of the Violet. BES examination of the root of a good plant, many growing buds will be perceived: in the month of February I take off two or three of these buds, with part of the fleshy root, according to the size of the plant; I then insert them in the common way, in sand, under a bell glass, give them a little water, and place them in the front of the stove, where they can have as much light as possible. As there is no occasion to shade them, in ten days they are ready to pot. I water the cutting pot, and turn them out; putting only one plant in a pot, ina mixture of vegetable mould and peat earth. After potting I give them water, and place them in a shady part of the house till I perceive the heart leaves growing; afterwards I expose them in the light. In March they are removed to the green- house, where they can have plenty of air; in May they are turned out on a border where I grow the Ghent azalea, Azalea ledifolia, rhododendreons, kalmias, ledums, andromedas, Gaultherza Shdllon, and North American azaleas, and where the O’xalis flourishes, showing a profusion of red flowers till October, when I pot the plants, and place them in the green- house until the following year. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. Hope House, near Halifar, Joun Menzies. January 24. 1832. De Candolle states (Regen. Veg. Syst. Nat. i. p.244.) that Rananculus parnassifolius LZ. inhabits the rocks of the Alps and Pyrenees at the point contiguous to eternal snow, and that there it flowers in summer: these facts may further hint the plant’s requirements under artificial culture. — J. D. Art. XX. On the Culture of the Heartsease Violet. By Mr. Ar- CHIBALD GorRIE, F.H.S. and C.H.S., &c. Sir, Some seven or eight years since, I was presented with two violets by a respected friend* (on his leaving this part of the country), with an injunction that I should pay attention to their culture. From respect to my friend, attention to my beautiful charge became a pleasant duty; and any little care I bestowed has been amply repaid by a profuse and beautiful variety of that lowly and charming tribe of plants. Having obtained what were reckoned some good varieties, I distri- buted them among several of my professional brethren, which answered two purposes I had in view: the first, to * Mr. Brown, late of the Kinnoul nurseries. 574 Culture of the Violet. oblige my friends ; and the-second, to promote a taste for m favourite flower. I also used my influence with the Perth- shire Horticultural Society to get it introduced into their schedule as a prize article; and the consequence is, that this spring and autumn flower is, in this quarter, now meeting with merited attention. One of my original breeders, which is called Brown’s Violet, is a fine improved variety of Viola tricolor ; upper and side petals deep purple tinged with carmine; lower petal brown, with a slight yellow laced border; eye yellow, permanent, and well marked; average length of flower, an inch and three tenths; breadth, an inch and one tenth. ‘This favourite is difficult to preserve, it being a sort of biennial ; but its existence may be prolonged by cuttings or layers. Its seedlings maintain a near family likeness. ‘The flowers have generally a sweet smell. My other original breeder was the Viola grandiflora, of which I still retain the original plant by cuttings. It does not seed very freely, and its seedlings are liable to sport. An improved variety has been obtained with the parental colours, but a more regular flower, and rather larger than its parent: it forms almost a circle of nearly two inches diameter. _ Its upper petals are purple; side and lower petals light blue tinged with purple; eye small, yellow, and permanently distinct. From this I very early obtained a beautiful large flower, which a friend, to whom I gave the first plant I had to spare, out of compliment named Gorrie’s Superb. From, this many beautiful seedling varieties have been produced. The upper petals are a fine dark velvety purple; side and lower petals deep ultramarine blue; the two side petals deeply shaded above the eye, which is light orange, in the centre radiate, and the rays light yellow at the extremities. The flower measures, at an average, two inches and two tenths every way. ‘The original plant is still preserved, and very extensively distributed ; from it has been pro- duced here, last season, Queen Adelaide, named (without asking permission) as an expression of loyalty. It is some- thing like the former in its upper petals; the others have the blue brighter, the shades deeper, the eye.more compact, and. altogether it is reckoned a finer flower than my Superb, Another, raised at the same time, and from the same original, is called Miss Drummond: it has a strong resemblance to the Superb, but all its petals are of a deeper velvet purple, the eye is yellow, radiate, surrounded by a marked light blue halo: it is longer-shaped, and rather less, than Queen Ade- laide. One named Lady Murray Threipland, is a beautiful Culture of the Violet. 575 mazarine blue, tinged with purple, approaching to a self; the eye something like the Superb in form, but the: side and lower petals are in better proportion with those above; the colour of the eye is light yellow. Of the selfs, or one- coloured, these have been named : — Robina, with all the petals light blue, something waved, eye yellow or gold colour, finely radiate, and flower large; Miss Neil, petals bright purple, eye small, orange-coloured, finely radiate, flower much longer than broad; Miss Paul, petal similarly coloured with the above, eye larger, bright yellow, radiate. Of several fine white flowers, the only one yet named here, besides the old altaica, the parent, is the “ Belle Blanche :” it was raised by Robert Bell, a shoemaker in Rait village. The flower measures in length two inches, and in breadth one inch and three fourths. The eye is yellow, marked above with two deeply coloured blue spots. A beautifully shaped cream-coloured flower has appeared this season; it has the honour of being named, by request, Jesse. The eye is a gold colour, radiate, with black pencilled lines in every direction. A very large and beautiful purple self, with a bright eye, is named Catherine of Gowrie ; it is larger than the old grandiflora; another, with dark waved petals, is named Eliza. These three should stand together in a collection. The Duffzana is a fine black dingy violet, raised by the village dominie, Mr. Duff. Phe- mie’s Highland Mountain is a large, pale, yellow hybrid, between the altdica and litea. Gorrie’s Incomparable is one of the finest yellows yet seen in this country. Such are a few of those already reckoned worthy of being named : new and beautiful varieties are daily being produced, which repay the cultivator in a very short space from the time of sowing. Violets flower here from the middle of April till the middle of June, when the sun’s heat becomes too strong for them ; they commence again about the middle of August, and continue to display their brilliant hues till prevented by the frost. They delight in a rich and highly manured soil. The ‘properties of a good violet are reckoned to be, large and round petals, the flower forming nearly a circle, not much undulated ; colours distinct and permanent; eye rather small,’ and not deeply pencilled; flower-stalk strong and straight ; and the stigma filling the open part of the eye. Berney Tam, Sir, yours, &c. So181G Bft0' ARCHIBALD GORRIE:! Annat Gardens, June 11. 1832. 576 Culture of the Pine-apple. Arr. XXI. On the Culture of the Pine-apple without Pots. By Mr. James Mircuinson, Gardener at Pendarves. Sir, Havine seen an account of the culture of the pine-apple without pots in the Royal Kitchen-gardens at Nymphenburg, by Mr. Joseph Lang, in the Gardener’s Magazine, Vol. V., p. 427., I felt determined to make a similar trial; and, about fourteen months since, having three lights of our pine- pit at liberty, I had it filled with oak leaves to a sufficient height. ‘These having been well trodden down, and made perfectly level, I had a little earth put along the back of the pit where the first row of plants was to stand; I then turned some succession plants out of their pots, and, placing them in a row behind, filled the spaces between them with earth, keeping it as light as possible; I also put it in rather rough, that the roots of the plants might run more freely through it. When one row was planted, I proceeded as before, till three rows were in, which filled the pit, it being only 6 ft. wide inside. I then gave a gentle sprinkling with water, to wash off the dirt from the plants, and settle the earth a little. In about a fortnight I found the plants begin to grow rather strong, which they continued to do, and in the course of the summer most of them showed fruit; and, although I had some plants in pots much larger than they were, the fruit from these was finer and much higher flavoured. One plant, a Jamaica pine, which did not show fruit till late in the sum- mer, ripened this spring a fruit 44 lbs.; and, although ripe about a fortnight, it obtained an extra-prize at the first ex- hibition of the Royal Cornwall Horticultural Society at Truro, June 29. 1832. I have now three Montserrats and a queen in fruit in the same pit, that were put out as above, fourteen months since, which are now looking extremely well, and seem likely to be both large and handsome: in fact, so great was the satisfaction I experienced from the experi- ment, that this spring I planted, in the same manner, the - whole length of our pit, being 70 ft. long and 6 ft. wide; and, as before stated, containing three rows of plants. I am ex- tremely glad to be able to say that these newly planted pines are doing equally well, and that many gardeners, as well as gentlemen, who have seen them, say they never saw finer plants or finer fruit; for my own part, I can only say I am not ashamed to show them. In winter, autumn, and spring, we use hot water to obtain the requisite degree of heat for keeping the plants ina healthy state. I also use a lining of hot dung in front of the pit (it Rapid Mode of raising Vine Plants. OTT being placed on arches), when occasion requires it. I find the hot-water system to answer extremely well, better than any other method I have ever seen in use. I grow our succession and nursery plants in a pit, built of bricks, pigeon-holed ; and I use linings of dung, leaves, grass, &c., when the heat of the bed in the inside requires renewing. The plants are kept in pots till wanted for plunging out for fruiting. The. saving of trouble and expense occasioned by the above treatment of the pine-apple will, I trust, be evident to all your readers; and I hope many of them will not only take my word for its being attended with complete success, but that they will give it a fair and similar trial to that I have en- deavoured to state above: if they do, I fancy the result will be, that some will find that pine-apples will grow, and that freely, with scarcely any bottom heat, particularly when out of pots. If you should consider this worthy of insertion in your Magazine, it is at your service; and, I assure you, no one will be more anxious to hear of Situilar experiments being made, and found to answer, than myself; and also that, through your Magazine, a fruit so desirable may, ere long, become more generally cultivated than at present. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Pendarves, July 31. 1832. James Mircuinson. Art. XXII. On a rapid Mode of raising excellent Vine Plants. By Mr. T. Rutcer, Gardener at Short Grove, Essex. Sir, Tue following is a mode by which I raised a sufficient number of fine young vines to stock a vinery : — At the pruning season, leave a shoot of strong young wood, over and above what may be wanted for training, of a suffi- cient length to bend down to any convenient place where a pot can be placed to receive it as a layer; and also for train- ing it during its growth. When the vine begins to push, dis- place all the buds frorn the shoot intended for laying, except the leading one. When this is grown to about 8 in. or 1 ft. in length, bend it down to the pot, ‘and lay it so that the top joint, whence the young wood has sprung, may be fixed with a strong crook at about 1 in. under the surface of the mould. As soon’ as it begins to take root, which may be known by removing a little ‘of the ear th, begin to weaken its resources “Vor. Vill. — No. 40. ele 578 On substituting good Vines for bad, ‘from the mother plant, by making an incision in the wood behind the pot; which enlarge by degrees, as fast as the young plant will bear it, until it be quite separated from the old one. The advantage of the above method is, that the vine may be grown to 10 ft. or 20 ft. and upwards in length the first season, with a pot full of roots; so that it may be planted in any situation where it may be wanted, without being checked in its growth, as is generally the case when grown in the usual way from a layer. The pot ought not to be less than a 24: it must be filled with rich compost; and, if the layer be watered occasionally with liquid manure, it will considerably promote its growth. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. Short Grove, Essex, July, 1832. . T. RuteceEr. Art. XXIII. On substituting good Vines, either as to Kind or State of Health, for bad ones, with the least possible Loss of Time. By Mr. ALExanpER Gorpow, late Gardener to Sir F. G. Fowke, Bart., Lowesby Hall, Leicestershire. Sir, THERE are various causes which have a very injurious tend- ency, with respect to the growth of the vine in this country; but the most general is some defect in the formation of the border in which the vines are planted, which often goes a great way towards annihilating their existence. Partial remedies are frequently attempted, but they are merely competent to pro- long a sickly existence; seldom, if ever, effecting a radical cure. When vines become sickly, I would most strongly recommend a complete renovation of the border, extirpating the old vines 2” toto, and planting young ones. ‘That this may be done with the least possible injury to the dessert, and that it may receive a speedy supply from a newly built house, I have adopted the system of which I send you an account below. If an old house and the vines in it do not give satisfaction, they may be forced early, and the crops cut in April and May; by which time good plants can have been raised from eyes propagated in the month of February. A sufficient quantity of proper compost must also be in readiness. ‘Then destroy the old vines as soon as all the fruit is cut; prepare the bor- der in a proper manner, giving due attention to a proper drainage; and in a few days after all is completed, if the weather is favourable, the vines may be planted: they will with the smallest Loss of Time. 579 each produce an excellent shoot the same season. Instead of cutting this shoot back the following spring, as generally done, it is to be left 15 ft. or 20 ft. long, and trained as exhi- bited in the accompanying sketch (jg. 118.), which is a section tUypyyy07 q(T YY; tj YH Yy G of a house now under my charge, with the present and future bearing wood as it now exists. a@a represents the shoot of the first season trained into its present form in the month of ‘February last ; having been first twisted at 6, and again when introduced into the pots dd. The twist at d produces the emis- sion of the shoot c, from the eye immediately under the twist at 6. The pots (dd) ought to be filled with rich compost, as it is from this source that the shoot aa will receive its prin- cipal support, by an abundant supply of liquid manure while ‘the vines are in a growing state. ‘The vine c is intended as the principal or permanent shoot; a a being completely separated from the plant when the fruit is cut. By these means we do not lose a single crop. ‘The house is replenished with young healthy vines, and the border is in a good condition to pro- duce abundant crops. As a proof of this, I may mention that the vine aa is a Black Hamburgh, propagated from an eye, in February, 1828; planted in May of the same year, in a newly built house; and now bearing thirty-five excellent bunches of grapes. In conclusion, I beg leave to state that the vines were PP 2 580 Destruction of the Aphis. *reared, planted, and managed by my predecessor, Mr. Cad- ness (whom I would be sorry to deprive of the merits due to his good management), until eight weeks ago; consequently, my only motive in this communication is a sincere desire to disseminate any useful information which comes under my observation, being perfectly indifferent whether the credit be due to myself or others as it respects its origin. I am, Sir, yours, &c. ALEXANDER GORDON. Lowesby Hall, Leicestershire, Aug. 28. 1829. Art. XXIV. On the Destruction of the A\phis on Peach and Nectarine Trees. By Mr. G. Jamieson, late Gardener to Mrs. Bulwer Lytton, of Knebworth Park, Herts. Sir, Tue peach and nectarine trees, when planted against walls having a south or south-east aspect, come into flower in the end of March, or the beginning of April; and in ten or twelve days afterwards they come into leaf. About this season we have generally cold dry winds from the north or north-east ; and after these have prevailed a few days, the aphis commonly makes its appearance. As I have been very successful in the destruction of this pest of gardeners, it may, perhaps, be of some use to state my practice. In the first place, water the tree over-head with a syringe or garden-engine ; then put a quantity of gas tar into a flower- pot or any open-mouthed vessel; place it as near the tree as ou can, without incurring the risk of the heat of the process to be described injuring the leaves. Then put into the vessel as many burning coals as will set the gas tar on fire; and in a few minutes a dense cloud of black fetid smoke will rise up, and, in a mild day, completely envelope the leaves of the trees. If the day be not mild, you must carry on the operation either under a temporary covering of mats, or wait till the wind blows either against the wall, or in the direction of it. The evening or the morning is the best season for this process; a very few minutes will suffice for each tree ; and, as soon as the fumigation is over, the trees should be syringed, to wash off the soot and the dead insects. lam, Sir, yours, &c. G. JAMIESON. 6. Sale Street, Edgware Road, London, Aug. 1. 1832. Gathering Apples from lofty Trees. 581 Mr. JamiEson, we understand, practised this method at Knebworth with’ the greatest success; and he has no doubt that it might be employed in orchards on a large scale, instead of the present practice of burning straw. In North America there are, in some seasons, immense flights of locusts, of some miles in length, and a mile or more in breadth. Might not a whole country unite in burning gas tar at the same moment, so as to destroy these insects en masse? There would be no danger to human beings who were content to keep close to the earth; because, all smoke being lighter than pure air, the latter would naturally gravitate to the surface. Considerable annoyance to an army entering a town, or to ships at sea, the wind being in a favourable direction, might, no doubt, be effected by the skilful ma- nagement of so powerful a smoke; produced in such immense quantities, and so rapidly, from such a small quantity of materials. In the cities of Russia, it is the custom to disperse mobs, and quiet drunken people, by playing water on them with a fire-engine: in desperate cases, perhaps, smoke would be preferable. For garden purposes, it would be very desir- able to know the neatest, cheapest, and most commodious mode of gener- ating and applying this smoke. Probably dry leaves of trees, or coarse paper, or tanners’ bark, impregnated with gas tar, might be burned in a fu- migator such as we have figured in p. 354. ; and thus this seemingly clumsy process might be rendered as easy of use, and neat in application, as the process of fumigating with tobacco. Werecommend the subject to the attention of our readers, and especially such of our young friends as have studied a little chemistry. — Cond. Art. XXV. Account of a Method of gathering Apples from thé most lofty and slender Trees, without breaking any Twigs, and without Danger to the Operator. By Mr. E. M. Maruer. Procure a ladder of the requisite length, and two cords, about twice as long as the ladder, with a noose at each end; also two iron pins, 3 ft. long, pointed at one end, and furnished with a round flat head at the other. Place the end of one of the lines under the top stave of the ladder, and slip it over the end or top of the ladder side. ‘The same being done with the other line, spread both of them out to the right and left, and fasten them to the ground by means of the two pins before mentioned ; taking care to push the pins so firmly into the ground as to support a man and ladder, without its leaning against the tree. I will endeavour, by the following rough sketch (fig. 119.), to il- lustrate my meaning. Care must be taken, in ’ setting the ladder, that 119 £3 582 -Iruits used in the Manufacture ~ each rope has an equal bearing, so as that the ladder may stand secure; and the more perpendicularly the ladder is placed: the better. ‘The ropes need not be thicker than common sash cord ; and the reason why I place them under the top stave of the ladder, and slip them over the top end, is, that they inay not pull out the sides of the ladder, which they otherwise would do. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. Old Baseford, Feb. 24. 1830. K. M. Marner. [See Mr. Saul’s device for effecting the same object, Vol. VII. p. 26. —d, D.] . Art. XXVI. On the Fruits used in the Manufacture of Perry and Cider. By J. C. K. Sir, _AuLow me to be the means of correcting an error, which, having originated with Mr. Knight, has now been transferred by Mr. Lindley to his work on The Orchard and Kitchen-Gar- den; and which, emanating, in the first instance, from so great an authority, has obtained a credence to which it appears it is in nowise entitled. In the article on the Barland pear (Lindley’s Guide, &c., p. 414.), there occurs the following passage: — “ It (i. e. the perry) may be mixed in consider- able quantity with new port, without its taste becoming per- ceptible. It sells well whilst new to the merchants; and, as it is comparatively cheap, it probably forms one of the ingre- dients employed in the adulteration of this wine.” Now, it is possible that it would not be easy to detect, by the taste, the admixture of a portion of the juice of this pear; but it would infallibly excite fermentation in the wine, and very speedily convert it into vinegar. ‘The Barland perry is even more likely to do this than any other: for it is a notorious fact, that the cider merchants rarely, if ever, purchase it; because, though early in the season it is a very good perry, or even aiterwards. if not moved, yet it is so liable to the acetous fermentation as to entirely unfit it for transmission to long distances. ‘The passage above quoted does not specify whe- ther wine or cider merchants are intended: but it cannot mean the former; for how are wine merchants, living at a distance, to obtain, while new, a liquor which immediately on its expression from the fruit requires the greatest atten- tion; and which, if sent only a few miles, would inevitably, from its active fermentation, burst the vessels that contained it, if they were closed? It is only fit, after being duly fer- of Perry and Cider. 583 mented and clarified, for removal in the following spring; at. which time, and at which time alone, the cider merchants send off large quantities to all parts of the kingdom; nor is any quantity sent to a distance, which does not pass through their hands. The Oldfield perry is almost the only sort pur- chased by the cider merchants to any extent, to the exclusion of all others, except the Teinton squash, and meadow pear, of which but small quantities can be obtained. In scarce seasons the cider merchants are occasionally induced to take a few hogsheads of Longland, Bache’s white, and Huffcap, which are usually designated indiscriminately as perry, and not, as is the case with the others, specifically named, and which do not bear comparatively so high a price. The mea- dow pear is a sort only within these ten years brought into cultivation to any extent, and the squash is nearly worn out. This observation brings me to another remark of Mr. Lind- ley’s, wherein he combats the idea that the golden pippin is incapable of being longer continued in cultivation. He ad- duces facts in support of his position, and on facts alone shall my arguments against it be founded. Know, then, that, notwithstanding the continual efforts, varied in every conceiv- able manner, exerted by many from their desire to retain this valuable fruit, the quantity thereof yearly diminishes. On one estate (Sir J. Cotterell’s, in Herefordshire), where for- merly eight or ten hogsheads of this cider were made in an average season, there are not now gathered sufficient to sup- ply the dessert table ; and the same is universally true. I can only learn of one house in the trade, which has been able to purchase any golden pippin cider within these twenty years, and that quantity was only sixty gallons, and at four times the former current price. Within the memory of some individuals, golden pippins were so plentiful that they were ground up promiscuously with the other fruit, while now they are all carefully gathered to supply Covent Garden and the other markets of which Mr. Lindley makes mention. ‘Then, the golden pippin tree needed no “ warm or sheltered situation,” and no protection from the “ cold blasts.” ‘The old trees, in some instances, yield good crops; but they are continually dying off, and great difficulty is encountered in rearing young trees, which canker and dwindle after a few years’ growth. One gentleman (the former rector of Kemerton), on a favour- able soil, after trying every other means, was only partially successful in obtaining fruit on a wall. Mr. Lindley states that the golden pippins will keep two months; I have eaten them in high perfection in the May of the year following that in which they ripened. PP 4 584 Bishop's Dwarf compared with other Peas. I perfectly coincide in your opinion of the want of more numerous synonymes when well established. I can find no mention either of the Chaseley Harvey, which I consider the most delicious apple we possess, or of the Flanders pippin, or Moll Flanders, which, as a culinary and useful apple, even for the table, stands here the first on the list, though unfor- tunately there is reason to fear that it too is fast following the golden pippin. Mr. Lindley recommends, for the preservation of apples, the packing of them in sand. As far as appearance goes, this method is unexceptionable; but between fruit preserved in this fashion, and that which has merely been laid singly on and under dry straw, and covered during frost with old car- pets, &c., there can be no comparison; the latter, though not either quite so plump or so sleek, being infinitely superior to the other, both in flavour and firmness. | Yours, &c. JC Levant Lodge, near Worcester, Feb. 20. 1832. Art. XXVII. On Bishop’s Dwarf Pea, as compared with other - early Peas. By Mr. ANTHONY ADAMSON, in a Letter to Mr. John Gibson. Communicated by Mr. Gizson. Sir, I RETURN you, with this, one quart and three quarters of Bishop’s early dwarf peas. ‘They have been saved from the sowings of those I received from you upon experiment, and for which I feel much obliged. I think it due to you, to send you the result of the experience which I have had in comparing Bishop’s pea with other varieties mentioned below, all of which were sown on the same day, viz., the 5th of April, 1831. Bishop’s pea came into full pod on the 2d of July, i. e., in 88 days; the early frame in 140 days; Knight’s dwarf marrow in 146 days; and the Spanish dwarf in 150 days. ‘Thus there was a space of 53 days in favour of Bishop’s pea over every other variety, even the early frame. The produce of Bishop’s pea is fully double that of the frame, and quite equal in flavour when taken early: the pods are short, but abundantly numerous; and, being dwarfs, their blossoms form a most elegant border. The seed from them is most easily saved, even from sowings made on the 4th of June. They require only short sticks, about one foot from the ground; as an early variety, they are of first-rate excel- lence. ‘This pea was raised originally from an impregnated blossom of the Spanish dwarf. By the way, the Spanish dwarf is an excellent pea, but not early; and, if compared with Otaheitean Mode of preparing Arrow-root. 585) o Knight’s dwarf marrow, sinks into insignificance. There was never such a pea for the marrow flavour known before, as Knight’s marrow. Its faults are, its not being early, and the great difficulty of saving its seed in this climate; besides, it cannot be prudently sown early, because of its tenderness of stalks. It is, however, of inestimable value, and might do well if raised in a moderate hot-bed, and transplanted as soon as the frosts were over; or if it were protected with straw ropes, or thick spray pea sticks. Knight’s marrow pea is entitled to stand highly prized, from its great delicacy and flavour, and from the difficulty of saving its seed; and Bishop’s pea has the same claim, as one of the most productive and early varieties ; but I must observe that Bishop’s pea, of all others, is most benefited by a liberal manuring of old hot-bed dung. But though Bishop’s peais so well deserving of praise as an early pea, it has little merit as a late pea, except as to producing plenty of seed. Knight’s marrow deserves a high price, for flavour, produce, and difficulty of saving the seed. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Mill Grove, near Whitehaven, AntTHONY ADAMSON. October 3. 1831. Art. XXVIII. An Account of the Otaheitean Method of preparing the Arrow-root. By ANDREW Matuews, Esq., of Lima. Sir, By this I trust you have received my letter of August last, which will inform you of my having crossed the Cordillera of the Andes. Since then, I have learned from Dr. Hooker, that he has published a description of the route by Mr. Cruikshanks; I shall therefore reserve what I intended to send you on that subject, till I receive Dr. Hooker's publica- tion. In the mean time, I send you an account of the Ota- heitean method of preparing the arrow-root of commerce, as I witnessed it performed in that island ; hoping that it may be the means of attracting the attention of some persons in Great Britain connected with those islands, and be a means of establishing a more direct intercourse with the inhabitants. The root (Zacca pinnatifida Lin., Ency. of Plants, p. 256. fig. 4321., the Pea of the natives) grows in the greatest abundance in all the islands which we visited ; viz., in Otaheite, Eimeo, Huaheine, Raiatea, and Otaha. Its favourite situ- ation is on the sides and ridges of the hills which rise directly from the sea, and which are generally covered with a. coarse grass, on ared sandy loam. The root is round, white, smooth, 586 Otaheitean Mode of preparing Arrow-root. full of eyes like a potato, and from 2 to 3 in. in diameter. The flower-stem rises directly from the root, simple; from 2 to 4 ft. in height, as thick as a man’s finger, bearing its flowers in a loose simple umbel on the summit; and, when large and full blown, it presents a beautiful and delicate appearance. The leaf is large, tri-pinnatifid, segments acute, of a rich shining green: it is subject to great variation in the size of the segments, some leaves being much more cut, and having the segments narrower, than others. When a sufficient quantity of the roots is collected, they are taken to a run- ning stream, or to the sea-beach, and washed; the outer skin is carefully scraped off at the same time with a shell; and those who are particular in the preparation scrape out even the eyes. ‘The root is then reduced to a pulp, by rubbing it up and down a kind of rasp, made as follows : — A piece of board, about 3 in. wide, and 12 ft. long, is procured, upon which some coarse twine, made of the fibres of the cocoa nut husk, is-tightly and regularly wound, and which affords an admirable substitute for a coarse rasp. The pulp, when pre- pared, is washed first with salt or sea water, through a sieve. made of the fibrous web which protects the young frond of the cocoa-nut palm; and the starch, or arrow-root, being carried through with the water, is received in a wooden trough made like the small canoes used by the natives. ‘The starch is allowed to settle for a few days; the water is then strained, or, more properly, poured off, and the sediment rewashed with fresh (or river) water. ‘This washing is repeated three times with spring water; after which the deposit is made into balls of about 7 or 8 in. in diameter, and in this state dried in the sun for twelve or twenty-four hours. ‘The balls are then broken, and the powder spread for some days in the sun to dry ; after which it is carefully wrapped in ¢apa (the native cloth), and put into baskets, and hung up in the houses. The natural indolence of the people is so great, and their avarice such, that but few of them will give the arrow-root sufficient time to dry, if they have an opportunity of parting with it, which I suspect was the case with that sent to Kng- land some few years back by the missionaries. So abundant is the root, that several tons might be prepared annually by proper management : as it is, there is a considerable quantity prepared ; it being not only eaten by the natives and strangers on the island, but also by the crews of the vessels that touch theres yyy) At present, when the roots are taken up, the only precaution used to secure a crop the following year is to throw the smaller roots back into the holes from which they were taken, and to leave them to chance. I have no doubt that, with proper Description of the Petre Pear. 587 care and cultivation, any quantity might be produced. When we visited the island, we purchased the prepared arrow-root at 2d. per lb., and a missionary there informed us, that he would engage to procure any given quantity at 13d. per lb., which is, I believe, much less than it can be purchased at either in the East or the West Indies. Its quality is excel- lent; I should say equal to that of the East Indies, and far superior to that of Chile, with which I have, since my return, had an opportunity of comparing it. Though there are, at present, many English and North Americans upon the island, I am sorry to say that but few of them have set the natives the example of industry that might have been expected ; even the missionaries themselves are still backward in that respect. As I am likely to remain some years longer in Peru, I have deferred sending you any remarks on the state of agri- _ culture and horticulture in that country, till I become better acquainted with the manners and customs of the inhabitants ; but as I am now in possession of a property of about fifty acres, which I am working, and in which I have all the fruits common to the country, I hope to be able shortly to furnish you with something novel and interesting respecting it. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. Lima, Dec. 23. 1832. - ANDREW MaTHEws. Art. XXIX. Description of the Petre Pear, a fine Seedling Butter Pear, cultivated in the Bartram Botanic Garden, near Philadel- phia. By Colonel Ropert Carr, Proprietor of that Garden. PETRE Pear ( fig. 120., full size).— A middle-sized tree; branches smooth and brown; leaves on long slender petioles. Narrow leaves, oblong lanceolate, base acute, end acuminate, hardly crenate, entire at the base, about 2 in. long, very smooth, midrib yellow. Fruit clustered two or three; pedun- cle curved, brown, half an inch. Pear oboval, truncate at both ends, 3 or 4 in. long, swelled at top. Skin thin, greenish yellow, with small. pale spots. Inside white, soft, juicy, melting, like a butter pear; delicious flavour, peculiar, very slightly musky, and vinous. The tree which produces the above exquisite fruit was raised from a seed, received in a letter from Lord Petre of England, about the year 1735, and planted by Mr. Bartram near one end of the dwelling-house, at the edge of a gravel walk, where it has never received any manure or rich earth. The roots extend to the walls of the house. The tree has 588 Description of the Petre Pear. never been subject to blight, and has not once failed to bear in the last thirty years; some seasons producing 10 or 12 bushels of fine handsome fruit, which is in good eating from the middle of September to Christmas. The fruit is always worth from three dollars to five dollars a bushel. The stem of the tree is about 14 in. in diameter, and 25 ft. high. It is in the most perfect health, although near a century old, and has pro- bably borne near 500 bushels of pears. Mr. Bartram informed me that the tree was about twenty years old before it produced fruit, and narrowly escaped being cut down as barren. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Bartram’s Botanic Garden, Nov. 1831. RoBERT Carr, Sutton Wash Shalom einer 589 ArT. XXX. Minor Communications. SuTron Wasu Embankment.— Sir, I saw in your Magazine for December last (Vol. VII. p. 674.) a notice respecting Sut- ton Wash embankment, &c., wherein you wish for additional information to the marvellous accounts found in the news- papers respecting it. I waited the publication of two succeed- ing Numbers, in the hope of seeing some respondence to your wishes ; and, as that hope has been in vain, I beg leave to offer this general outline of the matter. Sutton Wash forms one of the outlets of the basin of the Wash, as Dupin terms it, through which near 7000 square miles are drained to the sea, and it may also be said to be the identical Red Sea of the ill-fated King John. From the time of the Romans to the present, various works have been attempted to rid this basin of the tidal and land floods. The success attending these works was according to the ingenuity of the artist employed, and the coincident energy of the pro- prietors; and the benefits obtained from them were generally partial, the projectors profiting at the expense of their more negligent neighbours. ‘These works, depending chiefly upon individuals, were often neglected, and the benefits they pro- duced were often lost for want of timely precaution and atten- tion; so that I think I am warranted in stating, that it was not until the commencement of the present century that the sub- ject was taken up asa whole; and it was reserved for the capacious mind of the late Mr. Rennie, to give the outline of this magnificent undertaking. It has been partly carried into execution by improving the outfalls of the three rivers whose embouchures united form the Wash, locally so called; viz., the Welland at Fosdyke Wash, the Nene at Sutton Wash, and the Ouse at Lynn. ‘The system pursued was, to confine the channel by excavation and embanking, so that sufficient power might be gained to wear down the soil, and prevent the accumulation of shoals, which, in their original state, were continually shifting and reforming, as the inrun of the North Sea or power of the land floods predominated, and destroyed that continuous inclined plane which is so necessary for a perfect drainage. Fosdyke was the first acted upon; but, from some cause that I am unable to explain, the outfall was not carried far enough to seaward to reach deep water, or a drift- ing set of the tide. The consequence is, that the channel shifts considerably, and the benefit is only partial; but in the course of a few years it may be easily remedied. ‘The next in the order of time was Lynn Wash, locally known as the Eau Brink Cut, completed in 1821; and this extensive and 590 Sutton Wash Embankment. well conducted public work has produced very beneficial effects in point of drainage. ‘The bed of the river for 9 miles upwards is lowered 5 ft., which has caused many other internal improvements, particularly the lowering of the great sluice at Denver, now in hand. It is worthy of remark, that, as soon as the freshes were diverted from the old channel, the warping action of the tides commenced ; and in six years’ time the mail coach passed over without a bridge, where any frigate in His Majesty’s service might once have floated. We now come to the Sutton Wash; being the last, and most diffi- cult to execute, on account of its great width: but the experi- ence gained in the two former cases has brought it to a per- fect completion. In this case, likewise, the plan embraced every thing possible; and, whether considered as a drainage, embankment, navigable outfall, system of warping, or means of communication by its road and bridge, I venture to say that there are few cases where they are all combined, with so little injury to local interests. The line of communication is con- tinued over Fosdyke, and over the Eau Brink Cut, and Old Channel, near Lynn; instead of the old mode of crossing by fording and ferries. By these means, the distance by road has been shortened near thirty miles between Lynn and Bos- ton, and thereby a new direction has been given to the traffic between the north of England and the county of Norfolk. I ‘may here remark, there are yet a few additions wanted to make this line perfect; for instance, between Fosdyke and ‘Boston four miles of the road are at this moment ungravelled ; after leaving Boston, between three and four miles are lost in crossing the south 40 ft. drain twice, though, by passing through Swineshead, a road might be easily formed on the north bank of the south 40 ft. A tremendous hill occurs near Leadenham, about ten miles from Newark, which might be easily avoided, at a reasonable expense; I do not know whether it is a turnpike: if not, I should conceive it would answer to be made one. Although I have introduced several subjects, I trust you consider them as bearing upon, and elucidating, the Sutton Wash. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— W. Thorold. Nor- wich, April 19. 1832. Our correspondent has obligingly sent us a map, showing the situation of the banks, roads, and waters, described or re- ferred to in his paper, but we regret that, from the space they would require to render them at all intelligible, we cannot find room for them. — Cond. An Apparatus for enabling Well-Sinkers to explode their Blasts, when sinking Wells in Rocks. — Sir, I send you an idea of mine for enabling well-sinkers to explode their blasts (in 591 atus. , losion Appar nker’s Ep Well-Sin bp \ NG) : ol fos CSS == | = i / ee. , 592 Well-Sinker’s Explosion Apparatus. sinking wells in rocks) from the top of the well; thus avoid- ing the great danger to which they are exposed if they set fire to a train at the bottom, and are then drawn up in the bucket, as usual at present, by which many lives are lost. Fig. 121. represents a section of a jumper hole in the rock, at the bot- tom of a well: a is part of the charge of gunpowder; 0 is the sand usually placed above the charge; d is a tube, generally a straw (filled in this case with common dry powder), which is inserted into the hollow of the steel plug (e), which is turned, and just fits the jumper hole, in which it is steadied by a single blow of a hammer. The upper part of this plug is formed to receive a common detonating cap (f), such as is used for firing fowling-pieces. There is an eye at g, to which an iron wire (/) is fastened, and on which a cylindrical weight of cast iron (of from one to five pounds’ weight, according to the depth or shallowness of the well) slides. The hole for the wire is bored in this, at such a distance from the centre of the cylinder end, as to allow it, when the wire is stretched from the top of the well, to fall fairly over the cap, a little inclining to the side marked s. The mode of using this is pretty obvious: all being pre- pared below, the well-sinker goes to the top of the shaft, slips the weight on the wire, fastens the wire to some appropriate part of the windlass, and then lets go the weight, and retires. If fixed properly, it falls with its centre of gravity directly over the caps; and, exploding, it fires the blast. The steel plug, weight, &c., will not be injured by the explosion, and, of course, may be used many times. The dotted lines at p show that the situation of the cap, &c., may be changed, so as to suit either a horizontal or a vertical blast, or any thing between the two. The whole apparatus costs but a few shillings, and, I think, would be far more certain, safe, and expeditious than the mode at present adopted. If objections be made to the dan- ger of the plug being of steel, it may be all of copper, except the part on which the cap fits, and which never touches the stone. It is obvious that this mode of firing blasts is not confined to well-sinking only, but that a little tripod stand of 4 or 5 ft. in height, will form a support, from which any common quarry blast may be fired from a distance with greater safety and certainty, and less loss of time, than by any mode now in use, so far as my knowledge goes. Horizontal or inclined blasts, in a quarry, may be fired the same way as in a well. — Yours, &c. — Robert Mallet. 94. Capel-Street, Dublin, August 6. 1832. MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE. ArT. I. Domestic Notices. ENGLAND. THE Botanical Collection of the late Comtesse de Vandes, at Bayswater, was sold by auction, August 13. The plants, as might be expected, brought very little, thongh many of them were large and beautifully grown, and others rare. A fine specimen of Acacia armata, for which a nurseryman a few years ago offered 15 guineas, was now bought by the same nursery- man for 13 shillings! Some of the finest hot-house plants averaged less per pot than is obtained for pots of mignonette in Covent Garden Market ; but two magnificent specimens of rare and beautiful epiphytes, Stanhopea insignis and Cattleya labiita, brought six pounds, about a third of their worth. A grotesque specimen of A’loe plicatilis was bought by an amateur for two guineas. On the whole, the collection being more centrally situated, both for the trade and amateurs, than that at Bury Hill (sold about this time last year), brought rather better prices. We know of no private collection of hot-house plants that could compete with either of these, now no longer in existence ; nor do we expect soon, if ever, to see their like again. The times are changed, and changing, in all that relates to private wealth and monopoly ; and we must now look to associations for those displays of riches, and even of taste and connoisseur- ship, which have heretofore been confined to individuals. This change will, no doubt, be lamented by some, as indicating a state of degeneracy and decay ; but we look upon it in a very different point of view. The greatest happi- ness of the greatest number is our standard for testing all changes; and, consequently, while we regret the dispersion of this private and secluded collection (so completely secluded, that strangers were seldom permitted to see it) chiefly because it was in our own neighbourhood, we rejoice at the prospect of another botanic garden being formed (that on Primrose Hill), to which all the world may have access. We hope, also, that the unequalled collection of Messrs. Loddiges will be long easily accessible to amateurs. We trust something good is awaiting Mr. Campbell, the skilful and success- ful curator of the late Comtesse’s establishment, than whom there is not a more amiable and worthy man, or a better gardener. — Cond. Céreus speciosissimus has lately bloomed magnificently at Dropmore. It has frequently had from forty to fifty flowers expanded at one time, and altogether the number of flowers which it has produced in the course of the season exceeded 200. The whole of the grounds at Dropmore have been greatly improved since you and I last saw them together, and the pines and firs are some of them twice the height that they were in 1826. — J. The Inn at Maidenhead, July 16. 1832. Anew Strawberry, which attains a large size, has been raised from seed by Mr. Darke, at Bordesley, near Birmingham. The seed was produced by a flower of Wilmot’s Superb, which had been impregnated by the pollen of the Downton. It sends up its scapes very high, and seems very prolific. Some of the fruit was sent us by Mr. Darke, but it did not arrive im such a state as to enable us to judge of its flavour. Mr. Hoge’s Show of Carnations, at Paddington, has been this year more than usually splendid. Nothing could exceed the beauty of his yellow Vou. VIII. — No. 40. QQ 594 Domestic Notices :— England. picotees. Various new seedlings have bloomed for the first time. Mr. Hogg has got an ingenious instrument for stamping out the cards for dress- ing his flowers, which we shall figure and describe in an early Number. The Conservatories at the Colosseum may be said to be now completed, by the addition of the marine grotto, so admirably got up under the direction of Mr. Gray, whose merits, we are happy to find, are beginning to be appre- ciated by those who have grounds to lay out, and rustic buildings to execute, in the country. The marine grotto is certainly one of the most extraordinary imitations of nature which we have ever seen, and we could wish that it might lead to a new taste in laying out the gardens of sub- urban coftee-houses. We expect a great deal, at no distant period, from the gardens of all public establishments, from the common public-house upwards; and we expect, also, that in time most villages and country towns will have their public parks, their conservatories as magnificent as that of the Duke of Northumberland or of the Earl of Shrewsbury, their museums, colleges, libraries, &c. In short, whatever is now enjoyed, or rather possessed, by a few, will soon be enjoyed by the many ; but this is not the place to enlarge on coming changes, though, as society is always progressing, if we did not occasionally look forward, we should very soon find ourselves left behind. The Gardens of the Zoological Society, Regent’s Park, are every season improving. We only wish we could persuade the liberal and enlightened secretary to have the more conspicuous plants handsomely named, as well as the animals. What might not have been done for public taste, and the ornament and intellectual improvement of-the metropolis, if the whole of the Regent’s Park had been one Arboretum and Botanic Garden! We do not mean a dug garden; but merely that all sorts of hardy trees, shrubs, and plants should have been introduced, and named, instead of the common sorts that are now planted, or have sprung up naturally. Why not have broad irregular patches of all the different sorts of grasses in the open park, all the herbaceous plants which will grow under the partial shade of trees, and all the other herbaceous plants among low shrubs, artificial rocks, or in the waters? Why not, indeed ? The Surrey Zoological Gardens are in a prosperous state, and reflect the highest credit upon all concerned. Many of the botanical articles are there named, as well as the zoological ones; and a very elegant publication, en- titled Ilustrations of the Surrey Zoological Gardens, with beautiful drawings of their finest animals, is now publishing in monthly parts. Mr. Groom’s Garden, in the neighbourhood of the Surrey Zoological Gardens, will be visited by every florist of taste ; and they will there see, at this time, a new pea, which is expected to turn out a valuable addition to our culinary legumes. The Gardens of the Beulah Spa have been kept up with great care and taste, during the summer, under the direction of our intelligent and in- dustrious correspondent, Mr. Pringle, who has just left the situation, and who merits something a great deal better. We shall never consider Mr. Pringle in a place suited to his abilities, till he is at the head of some public botanic establishment, or a general manager of a gentleman’s estate. The Primrose Hill Botanic Garden, mentioned in our last, p. 470., is meeting with numerous supporters, and, we trust, will eventually be carried into execution. A correspondent suggests that the circle in the centre of the Regent’s Park would be a much better situation. This was proposed by us in the Mag. Nat. Hist. in 1828 ; and subsequently, by our ingenious correspondent, C. M. Willich, Esq., in his plan for a metropolitan garden, — Cond. A new Apparatus for heating by hot Water.— Sir, In the Gardener's Magazine you have given descriptions of various methods of heating horti- Domestic Notices : — Scotland. 595 cultural houses by hot water, and, amongst the number, a plan (Vol. VI. p. 374.) of which I had formerly a good opinion. Since that plan was executed I have been tempted to adopt others in my establishment, with every one of which, in its turn, I have felt satisfied; but such is the march of intellect, that we are now daily surprised by new inventions, and with none of these, as far as respects heating with hot water, have I been more pleased than with a very simple, cheap, and powerful apparatus, just in- vented by Mr. Weeks, of the King’s Road, Chelsea. I was induced to make trial of this, by having one put up in my office, and its erection and completion did not occupy quite four days; in fact, I had a fire in it on the third day, to prove its power, &c., and, in twenty minutes (including the time of lighting), every part of the apparatus was heated to excess, and the water was boiling with great violence, the office in a very short time be- coming excessively hot. It is right to say that the fuel consisted of shavings and wood. I consider this apparatus well adapted, not only to horticultural houses, but also to all kinds of buildings requiring either quick and powerful or moderate heat ; the water appears to descend and ascend as occasion may require. The consumption of fuel, I have good reason to think, will be much less than in any other apparatus with which I am acquainted. I hope you will soon be furnished with the means of making this very important invention known to all your friends. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — Joseph Knight. Exotic Nursery, King’s Road, Chelsea, Sept. 15. 1832. We have seen this apparatus, and it may be shortly characterised as a mode of heating and circulating water in small tubes in Mr. Perkins’s manner, without a boiler; but differing from it, in not having the tubes hermetically sealed. The chief advantage which we can see in this new apparatus, over those in common use, is, that it has the power, to a certain extent, of circulating the water below the level of the fire. This is un- questionably a most valuable improvement, and though it has been before obtained through mechanical means by Mr. Busby (see Repertory of Arts, vol. xiv. p, 137.), and by Mr. Perkins with his hermetically sealed tubes, it has never, till now, been effected by an open apparatus alone; we shall give detailed accounts of both Mr. Busby’s method and that of Mr. Weeks i an early Number. — Cond. SCOTLAND. Glasgow, August 18.— Since I last wrote to you, I have been at Ayr, and visited that delightful place, Auchincruive. I could not help being much struck with the open-hearted and kind manner of Mr. Skinner, the gardener there, and I could almost have fancied him an Englishman, if I had not found that he was rather more particular in his religious opinions than my countrymen generally are. What numbers of people pass their lives, in England, travelling from one watering-place to another, without having the least idea that there is such magnificent scenery in Great Britain as that seen from the lawn at Auchincruive! I looked down on the roaring wa- ters, and followed them with my eye, till they were lost in a chasm clothed with wood on one side, and displaying nothing but naked rock on the other. I then raised my eyes to the hill which is on the other side of the river, and, after admiring its varied woods and lawns, I turned to the left, and looked down on terraced garden scenery which might vie with that of Italy. What a place to retire to from the bustle of a great city! I think I still hear the sound of the waters, and see Skinner so anxious to show every thing off to the best advantage, and talking of his master with such veneration and respect. Mr. Oswald must be a good man, to in- spire such ardent feelings in his dependants. I went to see Colesfield, QQ 2 596 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, and was charmed with the situation of the Grecian villa on the romantic bank of the same river. I could not, however, forget Auchincruive ; and am afraid the beauties of Colesfield were in a great measure lost upon me. _I was obliged to return rapidly to Paisley, and had not time to visit the many other beautiful seats with which I was told this neighbourhood abounds; but, as Glasgow willbe my head-quarters for some time, I hope to make another excursion to Ayrshire. From Paisley | went with Mr. B. and another gentleman to Castle Semple; “a pretty melancholy place,” as Evelyn would have called it. Whether I am right or wrong I cannot say; but the impression produced on me by this place was that of profound melancholy. The whole park, which is extensive, and the farm, gardens, and pleasure-grounds, occupy the face of a bank of 300 or 400 acres, at the south base of which is a na- tural lake, upwards of a mile in length. The park abounds in fine trees, and both it and the pleasure-grounds are kept in excellent order. What I disliked most about this place was the kitchen-garden, which seems to me to have been completely overdone. The walls are much too high, and are ponderously constructed ; and the carpentry of the hot-houses is of the last age. I was surprised to find rather poor crops in the vineries, which I was told was owing to the defective manner in which the borders are constructed ; I was told in what the error consisted, but have forgot- ten. I would recommend you to ascertain it from the gardener, Mr. Lau- der, a very intelligent young man, who, I believe, reads your Magazine, through the favour of his very excellent master and mistress. As every thing in the building way appears to have been conducted here on a most magnificent scale, and as you know I take a great interest in the homes of the working classes all over the world, I was curious to know what sort of a house Lauder had got. Judge of my surprise, when he took me to a low-ceilinged damp cell, as I may call it, m which one room serves both as bedroom and parlour. He endeavoured to apologise for the dampness, by showing me that on one side of the house the earth was as high as the windows. I must do him the justice to say that he made no complaints, though I do not believe that there is a gardener’s house in all England ‘so unfit for a human dwelling. I asked to see the lodging-rooms of the journeymen, but, bad as Lauder’s house was, it was a palace compared with theirs. There were only two rooms, each about 12 ft. by 9 ft., for the eating and sleeping of six men; and the sleeping-room was filled up so entirely with the beds, that it was difficult to get into it. I am afraid your Cottage Architecture will not meet cases of this kind. The lodge of these men, as well as Lauder’s house, forms alean-to to the garden wall; and it would never occur to a country gentleman that plans for de- tached dwellings surrounded by terraces or platforms, such as your designs, would suit such situations. You should give plans for gardener’s houses, connected with the kitchen-garden walls, and I thnk you would do most good by giving them in your Magazine, which is read by many who will never see what is to me by far the more interesting work. You shall hear again soon from yours, &c. — An Englishman. Art. II. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of new Plants, and of old Plants of Interest, supplementary to the latest Editions of the “ Encyclopedia of Plants,’ and of the “ Hortus Britannicus.” Curtis’s Botanical Magazine ; each monthly Number containing eight plates, 3s. 6d. coloured, 3s. plain. Edited by Dr. Hooker, King’s Professor of Botany in the University of Glasgow. supplementary to Enc. of Planis and Hort. Brit. 597 Edwards’s Botanical Register; each monthly Number containing eight plates ; 4s. coloured, 3s. plain. Edited by John Lindley, F.R.S., Pro- fessor of Botany in the London University. Sweet's British Flower-Garden; each monthly Number containing four plates; 3s. coleured, 2s. 3d. plain. Edited by Robert Sweet, F.L.S., author of several botanical works. Loddiges’s Botanical Cabinet ; each monthly Number containing ten plates ; 5s. coloured, 2s. 6d. partly coloured. Edited by Messrs. Loddiges. Maunds Botanic Garden; each monthly Number containing one plate, bearing pictures of four plants; 1s. 6d. coloured and large paper, 1s. small paper. Edited by Benjamin Maund. The reader will find the few abbreviations used in the following extracts explained in p. 12. DicoryLEeDonous PoLtyPETALOUS PLANTS. Ill. Ranunculdcee § spirie. 1596, PONTA 14098 officinalis - 7 anemonifldra Hook. Anemone-flwd.% yor 3 my.jn R .. 1830? D sl Bot. mag. 3175 “ This richly and very deeply coloured peony is figured from the garden of the Rev. J. T. Huntley, of Kimbolton, Huntingdonshire, who received it from the Prince de Salm-Dyck. Its stamens are converted into narrow, acuminated, and spirally-twisted petals,bearing the same relation to P. officinalis as the anemone-flowered or Waratah camellia does to the true Caméllia japénica, and it is scarcely less beautiful in its appearance.” ( Bot. Mag., Aug.) XVI. Dilleniacese. 1597. HIBBE/RTTA. 14115a Cunninghamd Ait. Cunningham’s $ or2jn Y Kg.G.’s Sd. 1823? C sp Bot.mag.3183 A somewhat twining shrub, with slender branching stems, and glabrous linear entire leaves two or three inches long: on a warm sunny day it is almost covered with its bright yellow, but fugacious, blossoms, and is, con- sequently, a very pretty plant. The specific name is in compliment to its introducer, Mr. Allan Cunningham: “a name,’ Dr. Hooker observes, “ likely to be still more intimately connected with the botany of New Holland, than it has even yet been, now that Mr. Richard Cunningham is appointed to be the successor of Mr. Fraser, the late colonial botanist at Sydney, for which country he is very shortly to embark.” (Bot. Mag., Sept. 1832.) [Mr. Richard Cunningham sailed on the 18th of August.] XXIV. Malvacee. 2023. SI‘DA. § iii. Heart-leaved. atrea B.C. golden-flwd. %({Cjor ... my.jl O.R India 1830? C 1.p Bot. cab. 1842 Messrs. Loddiges received this from their valued friend, Mr. Charles Stokes. It was raised from Indian seeds, and requires the stove, where its flowers continue long in succession. (Bot. Cab., Sept.) XXXII. Ternstromiacee. 2038. CAME’LLIA 18166 japonica var. compacta B.C. compact-flwd. # (_] or 4 n.f W England seedling I I.p Bot. cab. 1836 “ This,” say Messrs. Loddiges, “ is a neat small-flowering variety, dis- tinct from every other white, having a good deal of the character of the C. Sasdnqua in the flower, but the leaves of C. japonica.” Each flower seems to consist of many petals, but still shows several stamens. (Bot. Cab., Aug.) XLVI. Cactee § Opuntidcee. 1471. MAMMILLA‘RIA. ténuis Dec. slender w Algr 3 my PayY .. 1830. O ru _ Bot, reg. 1523 A very interesting species, exhibiting a “ curious intricacy of structure.” It propagates readily by means of the little round hedgehog-like bulbs aQa 3 598 Floriculiural and Botanical Notices, which it produces in abundance. These planted in a compost of lime rubbish and a little vegetable soil, kept just damp, will speedily emit roots, and establish themselves, and then nothing but frost or overwatering will destroy them.” (Bot. Reg., Sept.) XLVII. Onagrarie § Fuchsiée. Fuchsia globésa Hort., and Fachsia bacillaris Lindley. In p. 505. we have attempted to describe the admirable- ness of a plant of Fuchsia globosa Hort., as grown by Mr. Dennis, nur- seryman, Chelsea, but have grossly erred in stating it to be identical with Fachsia bacillaris of Lindley in the Botanical Register, t. 1480. The two kinds are as distinct as any two kinds of one genus need to be. On com- paring the two, although the specimens we inspected were unequal in size and age, the following differences were perceptible : — F. bacillaris has ascending branches; elliptical leaves, which are acuminately tapered to both ends, and perfectly smooth in every part; its flowers resemble those of F. ¢hymifolia, and somewhat those of F. microphylla; and they have not their stamens projected beyond the free tubular part of the calyx. The branches of F. globosa are decurved, from which depend, on slender pedicels lin. in length, very numerous flowers; thus forming pleasing crimson wreaths. The leaves are somewhat heart-shaped at the base, acuminate, serrate, and fringed with short, and probably deciduous, pubes- cence. The flower, before expansion (see p.505.), is globose; but, when expanded, much resembles that of F. conica, and has its stamens projected beyond the extent of both the crimson sepals and purple petals. Until some botanist publishes a more perfect history of it, we shall here pro- visionally register it. F. bacillaris is noticed in p. 225., and registered in the Additional Supplement, p. 589. 1188. FU’CHSIA. { 2. (Macrostemdnex) Stamens projecting beyond the sepals and petals. } 10075a globdsa Hort. globose-flwd. %_Jor 5 jns C.P Eng. hybrid? 1830. C p.l F. globosa is said to have been originated by some gentleman’s gardener, from seeds cross-impregnated between F. cénica and F. microphylla. 1185 CLA’/RKI4 10047 pulchélla 2 fldre albo Sw. white-flowered © orld ju W N.Amer. 1826. S co Sw.fi.gar.2.s. 157. “ The flowers of Clarkea pulchélla are found of various shades of purple in the cultivated plant; but the white variety represented in our plate is more particularly deserving of notice.” (British Flower-Garden, Sept.) LX. Proteacee. 316. GREVV’LLEA. +28900a robusta Cun. robust or sz/koak@ \_] or80... O MoretonB. 1830. C I.p Bot.mag.3184 This species is figured from native specimens ; the only plant in Britain, in the Kew Gardens, not having yet flowered in this country. “ This noble species of Grevillea,’ Mr. Cunningham, its introducer, remarks, “ in the thick moist woods on the banks of the Brisbane River, vies in size and stature with the Flindérsia, Oxléya, and other large forest trees: but bynone is it surpassed in height in its native woods, except by the Araucaria of those regions, whose level-topped branching head is seen rising far above all the rest. Some aged trunks of Grevillea robusta I have found to measure nine feet in circumference; so that it is probably the largest tree of the order [Protedcee] that has yet been discovered, surpassing both the Knightia of New Zealand, and the Orites foreités, an inhabitant of mountains] excélsa Br. of Port Macquarric. From its deeply dissected foliage, and the silkiness of the under side, it has obtained the name of “ Silk oak” among the pine-cutters of Moreton Bay: but its timber, which is of a toughish fibre, has not been appropriated to any use.” (Bot. Mag., September.) We have presented the tabular details of this species above, because in our published Additional Supplement, p. 590., by a shifting of the type, the details of this species, and of Caléy:, have been mutually transposed; the tabular description of Grevillea Caléyi is therefore this ; — supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 599 428899 Caltyz R.Br. Caley’s Jj or5jns R PortJack. 1829. C pl Bot.mag.3133 dblechnifolia Cun. MSS. Blechnum-leaved. 2626a canéscens R.Br. hoary.lud. # 1 jcu5... G.Taw. PortJack. 1824 C s.p Bot.mag.3185 Closely related to G. cinérea, but G. canéscens has the segment of its perianth much more acuminated than has G. arenaria, whose flowers, too, are of a dingy purple colour. G. canéscens has this interesting feature, its perianth is curved like a horseshoe, swollen towards the apex, and then suddenly much acuminated, so as to resemble the head and beak of a bird. (Bot. Mag., September.) LXXIII. Rosacee. 1522. ROSA 13470 indica var. Smithz? Swt. Sm.’s yel. Noisetée # or 5 sp.su Y Eng. hybrid 1829 C rl Sw.fi.gar.2.s.158 “ A hybrid production from the Noisette rose, fertilised by the pollen of the yellow China rose, raised by Mr. W. Smith of Coombe Wood. It resembles the double yellow China rose in many respects, but is of much more vigorous growth. Its flowers are about the size of those of the double yellow China rose, but of a deeper yellow, and, like those of the Noisette rose, are disposed in clustered corymbs of from ten to twenty- two: they are highly fragrant. This new kind of rose is perfectly hardy, is readily increased by cuttings, and may be regarded as a most valuable addition to our already numerous list of China roses. (British Flower- Garden, Sept.) LXXVII. Legumindse § Sophoree. 1246. CHORO’ZEMA. 20500@ ovatum Lindl. ovate-leaved wy Jel 1 my S N.Hoil. 1830 C s.p Bot. reg. 1528 An elegant plant, and highly decorative in its largish blossoms, whose vexillum is scarlet with a yellow spot at its base: the wings are purplish. “ Its characters are more those of C. rhémbeum than of any other spe- cies ; but it is decidedly distinct.” Raised in the nursery of Mr. Knight, from seeds gathered in the south-west of New Holland, by Mr. William Baxter. (Bot. Reg., Sept.) 1257. DILL WY’/NI4? glycinifolia Sm. Glycine-lvd. # |_JeliZap O.Ro 8.W.N.Holl. 1830 S s.p Bot. reg. 1514 An exquisitely beautiful green-house plant, raised by Mr. Knight of the Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, out of the collection of seeds purchased by him of Mr. Baxter, who collected them in New Holland. Botanists doubt if this plant be a species of Dillwynia; and Professor Lindley regrets that the doubt “ seems little likely to be cleared up; although,” he remarks, “ it is now nearly thirty years since materials for the completion of the Flora of New Holland were furnished by the liberality of the British Go- vernment. It is time that this were looked to; and much to be wished that some enterprising naturalist would convert to a useful purpose the rich stores of information regarding Australian vegetation procured at the national expense, and now open to all enquirers, which are lymg unem- ployed at the British Museum. When we see the fate of the plants col- lected in Flinders’s expedition, and in the fatal journey up the Congo, by the lamented Christian Smith, we can scarcely wonder that a wise and careful government should object to pay the expenses of scientific expedi- tions.” Leguminose § Phasedlee. Kennédya dilatata Cun. is figured in the Botanical Register for September, t. 1526., from Mr. Knight’s nursery, where it flowered in April last. It is a prostrate or climbing plant, beautiful in its headlike racemes of blossoms, which are scarlet in their standard, yel- low in their centre, and purplish in their wings. In its affinity it is stated to be intermediate between K. prostrata and K. inophylla. Raised from seeds collected by Mr. William Baxter, on the south-west coast of New Holland. (Bot Reg., Sept.) Zupinus mexicanus is figured in Maund’s Botanic Garden for August, QQ 4 600 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, t. 366., where this remark is offered : —“ Its habit being at first unknown, it was soon lost; but in these days of research in every quarter of the globe, such losses in general meet speedy reparation. To the personal exertions, and also the pecuniary liberality, of men of science and fortune, these advantages are principally owing. Many botanists, however, in foreign countries are now wholly or partly employed by English nursery- men to send new and rare plants to England; therefore every customer of the nurseryman is an individual subscriber to the great object of explor- ing remote corners of the globe.” Legumindse § Mimosee. Acacia cinerascens Sieber, an arboreous species, with glaucous longish leaves, and cylindrical pendent spikes of yellow flowers, is figured in the Bot. Mag. for August; where are presented, from the pen of that zealous and intelligent naturalist and traveller, Mr. Allan Cunningham, the following notices on the distribution of the genus Acacia over the continent of Australia. The genus Acacia “ inhabits not only the southern coasts, but all parts of the interior that have hitherto been explored. Wherever I landed, during my four and a half years’ voyage with Captain King, an Acacia was sure to welcome me on my landing, and the last plant on which the eye rested, on those inhospitable steppes to which Mr. Oxley traced the Lachlan River, in 1827 (five hundred miles inland from Sydney), was my Acacia stenophflla, a curious slender tree, 20 ft. in height, with leaves [phyllodia] from 12 to 15 in. in length.” 2837 ACA‘CIA 4 Julibrissine. pentadénia Lindl. 5-glanded-Jod. #\_]or 5ap Y N.Hells.w.c. 1830 C p Bot. reg. 1521 Raised by Mr. Knight. If not equal to such species as A. pubéscens in the beauty of its blossoms, it is perhaps superior to them in the graceful character of its foliage. Professor Lindley names it, in English, the Fern- leaved Acacia. “ The little glands that are seated upon the petiole, be- tween each pair of pinne, are of a highly curious character ; they have the form of a minute cup, and seem as if they were destined to expose some portion of the inner substance of the petiole to the action of air or light; but for what purpose we are ignorant. One could almost fancy an analogy between the origin of these and of the shields of lichens.” (Bot. Reg., Aug.) CXV. Didsmee. Eriostémon buxifolius is figured in the Bot. Cab. for August, t. 1831., and thus excellently described : —“ It is an exceedingly pretty plant, growing upright, with many short rigid branches, and producing its elegant flowers in April and May. It is necessary to keep it constantly in the green-house. It will increase by cuttings slowly, and should be potted in sandy peat earth.” Erioste¢mon myoporodides is figured in the Botanical Magazine for September, whence we are able to present corrections to the details in Hort. Brit. p. 169. +10930 myoporéides Dec.Myoporum-like #,_Jfor 3 sp W N.Holl. 1893 C s.p.l Bot. mag, 3180 CXXXI. Passifloree. 1925. TACSO'NIA. . $28452 pinnatistipula J. pinnate-stip. 4 [7] or 30 sp Pa.Ro Chile 1828 C pl Sw.fl.gar.2.s,156 This plant is already in Loudon’s Hort. Brit. (p. 485.), but with imperfect details. From Passiflora, Tacsonia is, according to Mr. Sweet, principally distinguished by the long tube of its perianthium. Mr. Sweet’s figure of this elegant plant 1s derived from the choice collection of Mrs. Mar- ryat, at Wimbledon, where the plant has blossomed two years successively, and this year has nearly filled the conservatory. “ Its showy blossoms, which it produces in abundance, claim for it a place in every collection. It is a native of Talcahuano and Valparaiso in Chile; and”? Mr. Sweet is “ in- clined to think, that, in favourable situations, it will prove quite as hardy as the common passion flower, Passiflora ceertlea.” The plant abounds in downiness. (Flower-Garden, August.) supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 601 DicotyLteponous MonoperaLous PLants. CLXX. Ervicee § vere. 1173. ERICA. § vi. Ovatefldre. 9800a ? villosiiscula B.C. slightly villose % ,_Jor 12 my Li C.G.H. 1829? C s.p Bot.cab, 1844 “ Lately introduced by Mr. Lee. It is a pretty little plant, growing very bushy, and flowering abundantly in May. The flowers are covered with a kind of silky down.” (Bot. Cadb., Sept.) Menziesia empetriformis is figured in the Botanical Magazine for Aug., t. 3176., and is an elegant botanical gem. “ Its leaves in the recent state are decidedly tumid both above and below, being depressed only along the middle rib on either side.” 1345 A’RBUTUS. 110796 pildsa Grah. _hairy-branched 2.% cu 3 my W Mexico 1829? L lp Bot. mag. 3177 Stated in the Bot. Mag. for August to be perfectly hardy in the Cannon- mills and Edinburgh botanic gardens. Its hairy prostrate branches are furnished with numerous toothed evergreen leaves, nine lines long, and four and a half broad; the flowers are not large. Dr. Graham has not yet seen the fruit, so that the plant, it is just possible, may prove a species of Gaulthéria, or of Arctostaphylos. Hricee § Rhodordcee. RHODODE/NDRON indicum Sv. (521 Azalea 4341 indica L.) var. Smith#i Swt. Smith’s 2%\_]or 1 mr.my Ro.Sal Eng.-hyb. 1828 C pl Sw.fl.gar.2.s.154 Flowers of a rosy salmon colour, large, and spreading from 24 in. to 3 in. in expansion, the upper petals spotted with spots of a darker colour than the petals themselves. “ This splendid hybrid production is the off- spring of Rhododéndron pheeniceum, that had been fertilised by #. indi- cum, and was raised by Mr. Smith, at Coombe Wood, in the spring of 1828. It partakes of the characters of both parents, and, like them, is rather tender, but appears to be a more desirable plant than either; is of free growth, and produces its flowers in great abundance. Mr. Smith’s success in this department of horticulture is well known, his collection surpassing any thing of the kind we have ever seen.” (Mlower-Garden, August.) CLXXI. Epacridee. 3294 SPHENO/TOMA. capitatum #. Br. head-spiked. __jor 1 apmy W S.W.N.Holl. 1830. C turfip Bot. reg. 1515 A green-house shrub, that was very pleasingly blooming at Mr. Knight’s nursery in April and May last. It produces ornamental heads of snow- white, semitransparent, salver-shaped flowers; it requires “ the same treatment as the epacrises, styphelias, and other families in the order Epacrides.”’ Professor Lindley supposes Sphendétoma to be derived from sphen, a wedge; and Zemno, to cut; in allusion to the wedge-shaped seg- ments of the corolla. (Bot. Reg., Aug.) This etymon differs from that supplied in the Hortus Britannicus. Which is the right one ? CLXXIV. Campanulacee. ’ 605. ADENO’/PHORA. 44925 verticillata Fis. whorled-2ud. Y A or 23 jl L.B Siberia 1783. D s.1 Sw.fl.gar.2.s.160 Camp4nula verticillata W. C. tetraphylla Thun. A singular and rare species ; figured from the Chelsea Botanic Garden (British Flower-Garden, Sept.) CCXI. Scrophularme. 65. CALCEOLA‘RIA. , 97995a péndula Swf. pendulous.flwd. ye A or 12 su Y.Spot Chiloe 1831. S pl Sw.fl.gar,2.8.155 Resembles, but is distinct from, C. crenatiflora. It is figured from Mr. Low’s Clapton Nursery, where, Mr. Sweet believes, but one plant has been raised, which, it is hoped, will produce seeds. From its blossoms being large, and from their hanging down in a graceful manner, it is one of the most showy species of the genus. Mr. Sweet considers that this and 602 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, all other kinds of Calceolaria may be grown in the open air the year round, if planted in a warm border, and covered with a flower-pot in severe weather. (Flower-Garden, August.) CCXIII. Solénee. Solanum crispum R. § P. is figured in the Botanical Register for August, t. 1516., where this remark is presented respecting it : — “ It appears likely to be a hardy plant, in which case it will be very ornamental. If tied to a stake, and thus forced to grow erect, it will throw out a great number of lateral branchlets, at the end of every one of which is a bunch of flowers. In this state it was exhibited by Mr. Low (of the Clapton Nursery), at a meeting of the London Horticultural Society in April last, and was greatly admired. No doubt it will strike root very freely in the state of cuttings. It will grow readily in any com- mon soil.’ It is a native of Chiloe, and, if not quite hardy, will, doubtless, prove very eligible for the decoration of the hardy garden in summer. It considerably resembles the English bitter-sweet (Solanum Dulcamara L.), but has larger and paler corollas. The specific term crispum “ has refer- ence to a very slight degree of undulation at the margin of the leaves.” Salpigléssis atropurpurea is figured in the Botanical Register for August, t. 1518., where this physiological speculation is offered, which merits from our brother gardeners their attention at least. When plants of this species are “ grown in the open border, they are very apt to die suddenly, so that only a few will sometimes remain out of a whole bed. This is probably owing to the soil, in such instances, being too light, and there- fore subject to sudden dryness ; a condition which their tender roots are not formed by nature to endure. In Chiloe, where all the species of Salpigléssis grow, they are found springing from the sides of dry clay banks baked hard by the scorching sun of that climate ; a situation in which the moisture that the earth contains is parted with with great difficulty, and yery slowly.’ The salpiglossises are not the only plants of free and rapid growth prone to die suddenly off, while to all appearance in the ful- ness of vigour; and the above theory deserves to be compared with every case which may transpire, until its sufficiency or insufficiency is proved. CCXXI. Labiate § Ocymiidee. 8383. COLEUS. aromaticus Benth. aromatic “ [_]fra 13 mr.my Pa.V India 1826. C p.l Bot. reg. 1520 Cdleus ambofnicus Louw. Cultivated generally in Indian gardens, chiefly on account of its great fragrance of herbage. Its leaves are frequently eaten with bread and but- ter, or bruised, and mixed with various articles of food, drink, or medicine, The plant, though pretty in its spike of whorls of smallish pale violet flowers, is not showy: in British gardens it is often called Gesnéria odorata. It is readily increased by cuttings. (Bot. Reg., Aug.) MonocotTyLeponous PuLAnts. CCXXXVIIL. Amaryllidex. 979. ALSTRGIME.RIA. 8044a hemantha R. & P. blood-col.-flwd. % [ZI or 22 jl. Dp.O.R. Chile 1830. O l.s,p Sw.fl.gar.2.s,159 Introduced by seeds by Lady Oakes, in whose interesting collection at Mitcham, the plant flowered for the first time in July last. It is an elegant and hitherto little known plant, which appears to require the same treat- ment as Alstroeméria Simséi, to which it is very nearly related. (British Flower-Garden, Sept.) CCXXXIX. Iridee. 142 IRIS. \ The spreading segments of the perianth beardless. nertchinskia Fis. Nertchinsk yy A or 3 my B_ Siberia 1831. D fr _ Bot. cab. 1843 Messrs. Loddiges received this pretty plant from their kind friend Dr. Fischer. They state that it “ grows pretty well in any good soil, and in- creases without difficulty by division at the root.” (Bot, Cab., Sept.) supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 603 CCXL. Orchidee. Collecting and Importing Orchideous Epiphytes, — “ It is very much to be regretted that some more efficient means are not taken to procure the plants of this description which abound in all the tropical parts of the East. They are very tenacious of life, and require no care in collecting, it being only necessary to strip them off the trees on which they grow, and to suspend them in the cabin, never watering them, but moistening them occasionally with a wet sponge. Captains of ships might succeed in importing them without difficulty. The only caution which requires to be taken is, that they should not be overwatered ; if this is done, they are sure to die: it would be much better to give them no water whatever. They should also, if possible, be collected in the dry season, at which period they are naturally in a state of torpor.” Professor Lindley, in the Botanical Register for September, t. 1522., under Angre\cum eburneum. The Woodlouse is exceedingly destructive to all Stove Orchideous Plants. — Messrs. Loddiges state to this effect in their description of Maxillaria Barringtonie, in their Bot, Cab. for July, t. 1824. Modes of destroying this insect are prescribed in our Vol. VII. p. 280. and 486. Orchidee § Arethisez. 2518. PTERO/STYLIS. § Stems leafy, appendix of labellum pencilled at top. Banksz R. Br. Banks’s %AJculi d_ Y. New Zeal. 1826. D p.l Bot. mag. 3172 Found on the banks of a stream which is received into the Bay of Islands, in New Zealand, by Mr. Allan Cunningham, in 1826, who soon after sent off plants to Kew. Mr. Bauer has found that its grains of pollen, magnified by Ploessel’s grand microscope 570 times lineally, or 324,900 times superficially, exhibit a total deviation from those of all the hundreds of specimens of orchideous plants he had before investigated. The species has large leaves, and Mr. Cunningham had named the species P. macrophylla: but Mr. Brown has identified it with a specimen found by Sir Joseph Banks in New Zealand, when he accompanied Captain Cook round the world, and of which a specimen or drawing still exists in the Banksian museum. (Bot. Mag., Aug.) Orchidee § Ophridee. 2487, A’CERAS, ~ 22515a@ secundifldra Lind?. one-sided spiked % A] cuZ ap D1 VS.Europe 1329? D Lp Bot. reg, 1525 “ Tt is a neat little plant, requirmg the same kind of treatment as ixias and other Cape bulbs: that is to say, to be kept quite dry and quiescent during summer. Under such management, Mr. Henderson, at Lord Mil- ton’s, succeeds in making it flower freely every spring.” (Bot. Reg., Sept.) Orchidee } Vander. 2587 MAXILLA‘RIA. y placanthéra Hook. flat-anthered € [A]cu3Z ... G.Y.Pk Brazil 1831? D p.r.w Bot. mag. 3173 A newly introduced and well marked species, from the rich collection of Mrs. Arnold Harrison, who received it from her brother in Brazil; and cultivates it, and the Orchidez generally, very successfully. (Bot. MJag., Aug.) The time of its introduction to, and period of its blooming in, England, are not stated: definiteness in these little matters seems unwel- come to the editors of the botanical periodicals. gracilis B.C. slender €¢[AJpr4 au R.Y Brazil .. D pr.w Bot. cab. 1837 This curious little plant is very slender in habit, and must be constantly kept in the stove. It may sometimes be separated for increase, and should be potted in moss, vegetable earth, and small pieces of broken pots. (of: Cab., Aug.) 2569. ANGRY’ CUM. (Analteration of angurek, the Malayan name of such plants.) +22793a eburneum Thou. ivory-lipped € (ZX) or 13 n.ja G.W Madagas. 1826. D p.r.w Bot. reg. 1522 | This species is in our Additional Supplement, but, with its descriptive particulars, less perfect than as here exhibited. But one plant is known to 604 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, exist in Europe; and this is in the Horticultural Society’s collection, where it flowered for the first time m November last, and continued in beauty for nearly two months. It grows slowly, and has not yet afforded the means of being propagated. Professor Lindley appends to this article the characters of five new genera; and one of these (C&cedclades) is to receive certain species hitherto referred to Angre‘cum, among which are the A. maculatum and A. falcatum of our Hortus Britannicus, p. 373. QEcedéclades is probably from oko to inhabit, and klados, a branch ; from its habitat. Oncidium bifdlium is figured in the Botanical Cabinet for September, t. 1845.; and of it Messrs. Loddiges remark: —“ We scarcely know a plant, even in this favoured class, more elegant in form, or more brilliant in colour, than this; its dazzling brightness is absolutely inimitable.” CCLI. Likdcee. F 4017. TULIPA 8426a maleéolens Berf. ill-smelling %A orl my RY Italy? 1827? O co Sw-fl.gar.2.s.153. 2 variegata Swi. variegated flwd.§ A or1 my R.Va Italy? 1827? O co Sw.fi.gar.2.s.153 These kinds are not unornamental, and require the same treatment as other tulips : they are figured from the Chelsea botanic garden. (Hlower- Garden, Aug.) = A second edition of Loudon’s Hortus Britannicus having been published since our last Number was issued, the present will be a fit time and place to register this fact; and to state that the second edition differs from the first, in being freed from the principal of the errors which had been observed in the first ; in having the just published Additional Supplement appended to it, in relation to which new asterisks have been inserted mto the body of the book; and in having the price of the Additional Supplement, namely, 2s. 6d., added to the price of the first edition ; making the price of the second edition ll. 3s. Gd. The Additional Supplement, consisting of 24 pages, is also purchasable separately for 2s. 6d. The genera in the Additional Supplement are arranged alphabetically, to avoid the necessity of an index to it. As observed in the preface to our second edition, “ whoever wishes to ascertain the additions and improvements made subsequently to the last Additional Supplement may consult the Gardener's Magazine ; in which, un- der the article which will be henceforth contained in every Number, entitled © Floricultural and Botanical Notices of New Plants, and of Old Plants of interest, supplementary to the latest Editions of the Encyclopedia of Plants, and of the Hortus Britannicus,’ will be found the name of every plant newly introduced or [striking hybrid or variety] originated, and of every recent improvement in botanical nomenclature.” Obediently to this appointment, we have deemed it pardonable to occupy in the present article a little additional space, for the sake of gathering together, and here exhibiting, all the additions which have accumulated since the putting of the Additional Supplement to press, so that the pos- sessors of the Additional Supplement will not have to turn farther back in the Gardener’s Magazine than to the following list, which includes all the newly introduced or originated plants published in the botanical periodicals up to September 1. 1832, and, consequently, includes the names of those noticed in detail in the foregoing pages of the present Number. An asterisk (*) prefixed to a generic name indicates that name to have never yet been admitted into either the Hortus Britannicus or the Additional Supplement. A dagger (+) prefixed to a few specific names signifies that these names are already in the Hortus Britannicus or the Additional Supplement, supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 605 but with the descriptive details of the species these names represent less accurately given than as here presented. A section (§) indicates a new name devised for a plant already in the Hortus Britannicus or Additional Supplement by some other name. 2837. ACACIA. § Julibrissine. pentadénia Lindl. 5-glanded #1Jor 5 ap Y N.Holl.s.w.cl830. C p Bot. reg. 1521 2487. A’CERAS. 22515a secundifibra Lindl. one-sidedspikedy _A| cu = ap ODI.V.S Europe 1829? D lp Bot. reg. 1525 605. ADENO/PHORA. a 441925 verticillata Fis. whorled-lud \ A or 22 jl LB Siberia 1783. Ds. Sw.fl. gar. 2. s.160 Campanula verticillata W. C. tetraphylla Thun. : *933a A‘S AX Sal. (Narcissus L.) - albicans Haw. whitish ¥ Aor 1 ap W Spain C00 O sil Sw.fl.gar.2.s.145 979. ALSTRGEME’RIA. 8044a@ hemantha R. & P. blood-col.-fld. % XJ or 23 jl Dp.O.R Chile 1830. O Isp Sw.fl.gar.2.s.159 2569. ANG RASCUM. +28612a ebtirneum Thou. ivory-lipped €& A) or 12 n.ja G.W Madagas. 1826. D p.r.wBot. reg. 152% 1345. A’RBUTUS. 110796 pildsa Grah. hairy-branched 2% cu $ my W Mexico 1829? L lp Bot. mag. 3177 1061. dSPHO’DELUS 8869 liteus 2 sibiricus Lind/. Siberian x Aor 2 ap.myPa.¥ Siberia 1829? D co Bot. reg. 1507 957. BILLBE’RGIJA ‘ 7752Za bicolor B. C. two-coloured €[A)or ¢ .. Ro.B RioJan. 1829? Sk-s.p Bot. cab. 1819 65. CALCEOLA‘RIA. 27995a péndula Swe. pendulous.jlwd.y A or 12 su Y.spot Chiloe 1831. S p.l Sw.fl.gar.2.3.155 4$3436a CAMA’SSIA Lindl. (Quamash or Cumas, native name in N.W. America) 6.1. Asphodéle@. 1— 428707 esculenta Lindl. esculent Te AY Oe Vel 1D) Columbia 1827. O p_ Bot. reg. 1486 M. Rafinesque, as early as 1817, had named this plant Quamasia esculénta. See his Medical Flora, vol. ii. p. 255. 20388. CAME’LLJ4 18166 japénica Reeveszana Lindl. Reeves’s 3% (_| Dm x GF Sp a SE a7 i OF up the two sides, and a few oe a ka plants of thyme in front. The bee-holes in the bark look like keyholes, and they, being the same as in a door, and painted like bark, are not noticed ; they have brass outside shuts in cold weather. Construction of a Beehive from which the Honey may be taken without destroying the Bees. —Make a square hive of straw; when at the height of 5 in. work a floor of the same all over, leaving three round holes in the middle, about half v a ie, a Yat ( | | ak | (| nl" us ih Mh: it h 666 New Instrument for an inch wide, in this way, *.* Geta beehive, and fix a few thin willow sticks up the sides and top inside. Line the inside with canvass fixed to the sticks, and fastened outside the hive. Fix a thin board in the mouth of the hive, making it fit quite close and tight. ‘Then make three holes in the middle, the same as before noticed, which lay over the holes in the division or floor. ‘Then continue making the outside hive until high enough to permit the passage of the other; and leave a door to open, to take it out and put another in. Three sticks are to be placed from the bottom to the holes in the floor, for the bees to creep up into the upper hive, where it is likely they will first begin. When the upper hive is full of. honey, take it out and put in another, leaving always what honey is in the under one for their support. When you wish to take the honey, set the hive on a dish, cut the fastening of the canvass and sticks, and shake the hive until the combs slip out on the dish; then remove the canvass, and the honey will be clean and the combs whole. If any bees remain in the combs, brush them off with a feather, and they will fly back into the hive again. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Florence Court, April, 1832. W. Youne. Art. XII. Notice of a new Transplanting Instrument for Florist’s Flowers, invented by Captain Hurdis, R. N. Communicated by Mr. Cameron, Nurseryman at Uckfield, Sussex. Sir, anor THE new instrument I left with you was invented by Capt. G. H. Hurdis, Royal Navy, residing in Uckfield, Sussex ; and it is made, according to his directions, by Mr. Noves, ironmonger, Uckfield. Its use is for removing plants, bulbs, &c., at any season, and to any distance, with safety; or into pots, with the greatest facility. As you seemed to approve of the instrument, you will please to give it such a name as is appropriate to it, and say of it what you think it deserves. As Captain Hurdis is a very ingenious gentleman, and takes much interest in gardening, I have no doubt that you will -have something else from him; as he is frequently contriving ‘different sorts of tools for the use of his garden and the public in general. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Uckfield, Oct. 17. 1832. JAMES CAMERON. ‘THis instrument consists of three parts, a cylinder about 6 in. long, and ‘54 in. wide, open at top and bottom, and with two handles. (jig. 140. a.) The edge is serrated, with four saw teeth at bottom, which teeth, with the rest of the edge, are sharpened by a file. There is a bottom into which this fits, 6; two segments, c; and a pronged instrument, d. Supposing it desired to remove a hyacinth, the cylinder is placed over the plant, and worked into the soil till it is filled to the brim. The cylinder and soil are now lifted up and placed on the bottom (4), which fits sufficiently tight to adhere without any fastening. The two flat semicircular pieces (c) are then placed on the surface of the soil, on each side of the stem of the plant. It may now be watered, and kept in the instrument as in a common flower-pot; or carried to any distance, and the bottom (6) being taken off, the plant and ball of earth may be pushed through the cylinder (a) into a pot, or a hole in the soil, as may be desired, by pressing on the semicircular plates (c) with the pronged instrument (d). The same arrangement is particularly favourable for packing and sending to any distance. [This is certainly a simple, ingenious, and very effective invention of the kind; and, as Mr. Cameron has asked us to give it a name, we propose ‘calling it Hurdis’s Flower-Transplanter. We shall be happy to receive accounts of Captain Hurdis’s other inventions, and also of a certain tool for stirring ground encumbered with roots or stones, preparatory to plant- ing, mentioned by Mr. Cameron, and of which he has seen no account published. — Cond.] 668 Instrument for Summer Pruning. Art. XIII. Description of an Instrument for Use in the Summer Pruning of Forest Trees. By Mr. Witt1aAmM Taytor, Gar- dener, Thainston, Aberdeenshire. 60 in. 50 30 20 Sir, I wERE send you a sketch of a pair of pruning-shears which I have invented for checking rival leaders of forest trees. The blades of the shears are 5 in. long: one has a socket for a handle 10 ft. long; the other has a tail about 10 in. or 12 in. long (to give it lever power) with a hole in the end, to which a piece of garden line is fastened: the line passes over a pulley of 2 in. diameter, and is kept to the shaft by small staples: the spring is for keeping the shears open, and the pin in the socket is a stopper to prevent the blades overlapping each other. The end of the handle rests in a short strong leather socket from a belt round the waist, ~ which gives the workman the use of his left hand to guide the tool, and of his right to work the cord with. It will cut a branch fully one fourth of an inch thick. I use this tool for checking rival leading shoots of young forest trees, principally in their growing state, in June and July. Many trees have three or four leaders, and it often happens that the main leader is overtopped by a side branch. I have been often vexed because I could not reach such leaders ; they being from 7 ft. to 14 ft. high, the tree too slender to support a ladder, and the shoots too small for a pruning-chisel: but with these shears a man will do it in amoment; and they could, by means of a longer handle, be made to reach to the top of a tree 16 ft. or 20 ft. high. Lateral shoots may be fore- shortened back to the first or second twig. © Here, I hope, it will not be understood that I recommend clipping trees to a uniform shape. No: trees can be properly trained, and yet their natural forms in a great mea- sure preserved. This tool will be found useful in trimming climbing and trailing plants against a wall, when they are beyond the reach of persons on the ground, or upon a too short ladder. - Parallel Rods. 669 It is best to use it on a calm day. I would not apply it in pruning fruit trees, notwithstanding shears have been recom- mended for summer-pruning gooseberry and currant bushes, by no mean authority. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Thainston, Aberdeenshire, July, 1831. Wo. Tayvtor. Art. XIV. A Description of a useful Garden Implement termed Parallel Rods, designed for marking Parallel Lines on Beds. By its Inventor, Mr. WiLLI1AM GoDSALL. Sir, I nave had made what I consider a useful instrument to facilitate the planting of ranunculuses and tulips, and for various other similar purposes. I call it “ parallel rods:” it is made of deal, and costs me about three shillings. a and (fig. 142.) are two rods, 6 ft. long and 2 in. wide. Into a, two strips, 14 in. long, are firmly mortised, at right angles, these pass through 6; and by means of wooden pins the rods are secured at the required distance apart. c is the handle, fixed to a, at a right angle. When the bed is raked level, and edged, I leave the neces- sary margin along the side, and place the rod a where the outside row is to be planted, then slightly press the rods with the foot, which leaves two parallel impressions. I then shift the rods on in a direct line, placing the ends of the rods as a guide, a foot or so along the first marks, and then press them as before; thus repeating it, to the end of the bed; and, in returning, I place the rod a in the mark made by 4, till I have 670 Flued Walls and Kitchen-Garden thus marked the whole bed longitudinally. I then, by apply- ing my parallel rods in a similar manner across the beds, intersect these longitudinal lines; and at each intersection I place my root or plant. By this method a bed 20 ft. by 4 ft. may be accurately marked out in five minutes. ‘The instrument is useful as a square; and also as a level, by attaching a plum- met line to the top of the handle; and the rod 4 is divided into feet and inches, and is easily detached for sundry purposes. I am, Sir, your’s, &c. Wo. GobsAaLt. Hereford, Sept. 29. 1832. Art. XV. A Plan and Description of the Flued Walls in the Gardens of Erskine House, with a Plan and Description of the Kitchen-Garden there. By Mr. G. SHIELLS. Sir, AGREEABLY to your request when here, I now send you a sketch of our kitchen-garden (fg. 144.) and flued walls (fig. 143.), with some description of them. Our mode of heating these walls is simple but effectual. As will be seen in fig. 143., there is an open space, with a damper fixed immediately over, where the smoke and heated air enter the wall from the furnace at a: this damper regu- lates the heat through the whole wall. I found that when the damper was drawn about 4 in., a sufficient portion of the smoke and heated air passed through the two under flues to produce the necessary degree of heat in these flues ; and, after passing through these, being again united tothat part ascending through the opening left at a, the whole body of smoke then ascends, and passes through the third and upper flues, by which these are heated a little more than the lower ones. This I consider a great advantage, because the upper part of the wall is more exposed to the cold air, and less benefited by the reflection of heat from the ground; besides, the shoots there are generally more luxuriant and spongy, and conse- quently later in ripening. No trellis is required for this wall; for, if the damper be properly fixed, there is no danger of overheating any part of it; the only part where danger from overheating is to be apprehended is where the heat enters from the furnace, which is 18 in. from the wall, and 2 ft. below the surface of the ground. . ‘To prevent the roots of the trees on the south side of the wall from being injured by the heat, 4-inch brickwork at Erskine House. 671 wt i — i sn Hh A AN EA sa CC ich ft.10 5 0O 10 20 30 ft. is carried up, opposite the furnace, to within a few inches of the surface, with a 2-inch cavity (d). As the heat rises above the surface, it enters the wide space (c); from whence it is immediately divided through the wall. I have, however, a yard or two of the wall, at the warm end of the under flues, a little thicker (d). As flued walls are always warmest towards the top of the flues, the idea struck me, that if one, two, or more bricks (according to the depth of the flues) were built across the upper ends, as shown at e, they would, by confining the draught of smoke towards the bottom of the flues, tend to equalise the heat in them. This did not answer my expectations ; for it retained too much of the heat in the under and third flues, which caused a deficiency in the second and upper one: but having bricks run across the upper part of the cooler ends of the second and upper flues, as shown in the sketch (ee), is of considerable advantage, as a means of retaining the heat in these flues; and making the heat throughout 1 more equal and uniform, and requir ing less fire: indeed, walls upon this construction never require large fires. If it were desirable to warm the upper part of the wall only, by withdrawing the damper, and applying a small fire, this would be accomplished without warming the lower part of the wall. Depth of flues, 2 ft. 6in., 2 ft., 2 ft. 3 in., and 1 ft. 6in.; width, 7$in. Bottom of lowest under flue, 1 ft. from the surface’ top of upper flue, within 7 in. of the peas ; the thickness of the wall, about 1 ft. 9 in. ‘By reducing the open space in the flued wall (a) to about 30! square inches, the damper may be dispensed with; but, by retaining it, the heat can be regulated ee fo cir cumstances. 672 Flued Walls and Kitchen-Garden at Erskine House. _==s= =e SS5 Ke F Z| a, Vineries. 6, Peach houses. c, Pine pits, not yet erected. d, Melon pits. e, Gardener’s house. J, Offices. g, Sheds. h, Hot walls. é, Orchard. x, Screen walls. 7, Rubbish corner. m, Old quarry. n, Steep bank. Kitchen-Garden. — The north wall is 17 ft. high, the inner wall 144 ft.; and the outer wall 8 ft. on east and west sides, and 4 ft. on south side of orchard, with sunk fence in front. The walk opposite this, being a sort of terrace walk, commands a fine view of a part of the pleasure grounds. ‘The soil isa brown loam, about 2 ft. 3in. deep, over a bottom of whin rock. The trees upon the borders by the walks are dwarf standards on paradise stocks, except that in front of the hot-houses there is an espalier railing of pears. ‘There are twelve divisions of flued wall; four planted with peach and nectarine trees, three with the finer pears, two with apricots, one with cherries, one with figs, and one with vines. I am, Sir, yours, Xc. G. SHIELLS. Erskine House Gardens, Renfrewshire, Jan. 12. 1832. On the Formation of a Residence. 673 Art. XVI. Remarks on the Question, Whether the Architect or Landscape-Gardener should be first employed in the Formation of a Residence. By Mr. James Matn, A.L.S. &c. Sir, You are well aware that it has long been a question whe- ther the architect or the ground-improver should be jist employed in laying out a new, or improving an old, country- seat. The late Humphry Repton, and John Nash, Esqrs., were, thirty years ago, at the head of their respective profes- sions, the former as a landscape-gardener, the latter as an architect ; both equally eminent for refined taste and first-rate abilities. These gentlemen were friends and co-laborators, being generally employed together wherever their talents were required. But this connection, founded on esteem and mutual interest, was suddenly dissolved, only, as was then publicly understood, by the circumstance of their holding contrary opinions on the question above stated. Such an occurrence was no way interesting to the public; except, perhaps, calling forth some little feeling of regret at seeing two gentlemen of education, and of most courteous manners, differ on a point on which, from their previous acquirements and studies, they might be presumed to have held similar opinions. It showed, however, that such profes- sors should either know somewhat of each other’s principles, or that there should be such harmony as would induce them to compare notes of each other’s designs. Whether the question be even now settled is doubtful ; because, as many consider the mansion to be the principal object on an estate, they also imagine that all accompaniments are subordinate ; and, of course, think that, as the architect is accountable for the style, stability, comfort, and conveniences of the dwelling, he should also have the privilege of exercis- ing his judgment (if this point be referred to him) as to where and how it should stand. But as the style of all buildings is determined by the cli- mate, or by the character of the face of the country around, and as all the landscape-gardener’s operations must be 7m unison, it appears, in such a case, that the builder should fol- low, not lead; and, for this reason, that it is much easier to build a house to suit the scenery of an estate, than to mould the natural features of the latter to those of the former. No architect of taste would recommend a richly ornamented Grecian house to be built amidst bold picturesque scenery ; nor would he advise a Gothic or castellated mansion to be raised upon a beautifully undulated surface. This is sup- Vou. VITI.—No. 41. x x 674 Remarks on the Cooperation of posing him to be acquainted with landscape-gardening; but, if he be ignorant on this head, who would trust him alone in such an affair? The architect only concerns himself with the site and aspect of the house, with, perhaps, an acre of ground round it; while his co-laborator has to take an extensive view not only of the details of the estate, but of every interesting object of the surrounding country, whether near or far off. The woods, roads, and rides; the extent and boundaries of the park; in short, all internal dispositions, he must design with reference to some natural and commanding spot, which, in all likelihood, will be found to be the most eligible for the house. Hence it appears that, when the site or aspect of the house is not positively fixed by some local immovable cir- cumstance, the landscape-gardener should be first consulted. — I have been led into these desultory remarks by having often seen glaring instances of want of concert and cooperation between the architect and ground-workman; on which their abilities or taste (if they had any) were completely neutral- ised, merely from omitting to take a comprehensive view of the circumstances affecting the purpose they had in hand; or, perhaps, from inattention to those particular dispositions which constitute the convenience, comfort, and pleasure of a country residence. That such blunders cannot always be laid at the door of the professional man must be admitted. Pro- prietors have generally designs and a taste of their own; and oftener give orders than ask advice. In such cases, their workmen are ® more sinned against than sinning;” and all the satisfaction the latter can have in the execution of what they condemn, is only in receiving their fee, and denying having had any hand in the work. Still, it is a pity that pro- prietors do not avail themselves of good advice. ‘Their own ideas are often cramped by old arrangements; such, for in- stance, at existed in their fathers’ time.” Being accustomed to things as they are or have been, and with which they have felt satisfied, they are, therefore, never led to consider the possibility of these being made better. Often has it happened that an old stable or laundry, standing in the wrong place, has caused the derangement of a magnificent house, erected at the cost of many thousand pounds, and in a well-wooded park, of finely varied surface, many of the most interesting glades of which are shut out of view from the principal windows, by the interposing offices attached to the wrong side of the man- sion. In such cases, it is not only that the best views are lost to the best apartments, the quiet and seclusion of the latter are obtruded on as well by the butcher’s and every other cart, as by * the coach and six.” Want of a desirable aspect may the Architect and Landscape-Gardener. 675) sometimes be urged as an excuse for misplacing a house ‘and offices; but this will be no difficulty with a clever architect who has to arrange the suite of apartments. Besides these, there are many other inconveniences: and improprieties of disposition occasioned by the mal-arrangement of the architect; where, had a landscape-gardener been first consulted, his advice, though it might not have prevented, would at least have given timely notice of, the erroneous design. The following is a sketch of a place where the general plan has been marred by the architect’s ignorance of the principles of landscape, and of the value of fine views to, and proper disposition of the accompaniments of, the house he was em- ployed to build. Should it be worth a place in your Magazine, it may convey a useful lesson, not only to proprietors and architects, but also to some of those employed in the im- provement of country-seats. Be 6 2 145 @ “Ly mS 2 a a, °2 Ba aos ae BZ ice 22 Zz a 3h atta OB, ae oS Ty Wy ZEEE

Le ety, ap Zine Bee & RNS 2233 Ae 5 #<~ Te ee ® W ae See FS eee aa - SS by, ay ZZ i Si We eS Ze \NS5 eS eeZ i ee eu = ae oe @ QTE) i Ya = S22 Are Nee ] eM By Yj Wy 3 ‘ \ eee e “MM Wiz, i‘ oP LG&E, a : IZ jes % a S 2 = 7 Re Q = @ a, Turnpike road. 666 bd, Fine and extensive views of the park and surrounding country. ¢.c, Entrance gates, d, Entrance hall door. e, Lower court of offices, A single glance at this sketch will show the error that has been committed in placing the offices at the wrong end of the house, and losing a fme opportunity of making the finest’ disposition imaginable. ‘The situation of the house being on’ an elevated semicircular promontory of the park, commandin the most extensive views in three directions, might have been, together with the dressed ground on each side, offices, and entrance-lodges, all embraced by, and separated from, the pasturage of the park by a ha-ha or other fence. Such a xXx 2 676 On the Formation of a Residence. disposition would have allowed many advantages of con-. venience, economy, and propriety, which need not be men- tioned, as they will readily occur to every one in the least acquainted with the arrangements of a gentleman’s residence. Before ending my letter, I beg to advert to an idea which is rather prevalent respecting landscape-gardeners, and which. operates to their disadvantage. It is supposed, as the title of their profession is rather new, and sounds as if closely allied to what is called jime art, that their business consists only in forming pretty pictures to delight the eyes of future generations ; by the demolition of old trees, for the purpose of planting young ones a few yards distant; by laying out plea- sure-ground in beautifully meandering walks ; fanciful flower- plots, and other kinds of embellishment. Now, there are many proprietors who prefer the useful to the sweet of their possessions, undervalue mere ornament, and, consequently, dread the visit of a man of taste, lest he should rob the sheep of their pastures, the cattle of their hay, or the pigs of their mast and acorns; or lest his merely beautiful dispositions should entail an annual and unnecessary expense to keep the pretty things in orders But such notions are groundless; because, if the landscape-gardener knows not any thing besides the arrangement of flower-borders, the dispositions of the trees in the park, or the erection of alcoves and eye-traps, he does not deserve the title he assumes ; because these things are only part of his profession. The fact is, the basis of landscape-gardening is territorial improvement. ‘The designer must take into consideration the value of the land, and make himself acquainted with the capabilities of the estate; he must see how it can be best divided, what parts should be arable, what planted, and what parts should be appropriated to meadows and pasturage. The two latter, of course, will be near the house; the former at some distance. In all this he looks only at the intrinsic value and most profitable occupation and destination of the various parts. No incongruous intermixture of these parts must appear; and no inconvenience occur in passing from one to another, either by cattle or carriages ; he must be prepared to advise what kinds of live stock, and number of each, may be kept and bred on the land, and what portion of this will be requisite for his employer’s establishment. In all this he acts in the character of a land steward. In the general arrangement, however, he has to exercise his taste; and here he acts in his profession of landscape-gardener, by forming the most pleasing combinations of the materials he may choose to arrange, with the circumstances which must guide his dis- a Plantation Fences and Rose Stakes. 677 positions, whether of ground, wood, or water. Perhaps he may encroach on a fine meadow for the kitchen-garden and orchard; but would this be called waste? or if he take a few acres fer pleasure-ground around the mansion, would this be deemed a deterioration of the estate? Are not all estates enhanced in value in proportion as even the trees upon them are or are not ornamentally disposed ? Ifnew plantations are to be made, or old natural woods thinned, why should not these works be done tastefully as well as at random? It should be remembered that the pleasing distribution of trees on an estate, in almost all cases, constitutes its principal value. It is in such performances that the assistance of a landscape- gardener is necessary. ‘The application of his taste can never detract from the value of the place; for, in fact, every device he may practise, or every alteration he may recommend, can only be justified by fitness of purpose, use, or beauty; or for convenience or propriety; and always with a view to present pleasure and profit, connected with ultimate and progressive improvement. I am, Sir, yours, &c. Chelsea, Oct. 6. 1832. JAMES Marn. Art. XVII. A Fence for Plantations about Pasture Grounds in - sight from a Residence, and Stakes for Standard Roses. By CHARLES LAWRENCE, Esq. Sir, I RECEIVED much pleasure and instruction from the perusal of your very judicious observations on the various sins of omission and commission so prevalent in landscape-gardening, especially on the ‘ errors in grouping,” in Vol. VII. of the Magazine. They are most happily illustrated by the diagrams given at page 401. I have often endeavoured to impress on persons laying out pleasure-grounds similar views, as I have afterwards found, to very little purpose; for words are but an imperfect medium for the communication of ideas on such subjects, to those who have not previously had some practical experience. Your diagrams, on the contrary, speak for themselves. ‘The most careless observer can see in a moment, by ‘looking on this picture and on this,” the importance of forming a complete design before he com- mences his operations; that this cannot be successfully treated without due deference to certain principles; and that a harmonious and beautiful effect can hardly be the result of mere accident. It is very common, and not a little Xk 678 Fenee for Plantations, and “provoking, to have arguments in favour of design met merely by the declaration, “ I hate formality.” Every person of taste hates formality, in the vulgar acceptation of the term; but I “would impress on the minds of the class of objectors referred to, the fact, that there is a very broad distinction between such formality, and the harmonious effect of an entire pleasure- ground, comprising infinitely varied details, produced by attention to the laws you have so effectively enforced in the article referred to. By the way, I would strongly recommend that article to the attention of Mr. Errington, who has given ‘a plan for a flower-garden in the last Number, p. 564. But I am wandering from the object of this communication, namely, the plantation fence, which I have, after many unsatisfactory attempts, effected to my mind. ‘There must be a fence, but it ought not to be seen: furthermore, the margin of the plantation should not terminate abruptly with high trees; but the line should be broken by trees and shrubs, gradually decreasing in elevation, until the last in the series mingles with the grass. This has been the desideratum with me, and I have thus accomplished it: — Sow furze seed early in the spring, on stony or gravelly banks, on which there is a little good mould, as the plants dre thereby provided with much more fibrous root than when the seed is sown on stiff clay soils; keep the plants clean, and transplant them in Novem- ber, or early in February, to the front of the plantations. Fence them with a post and two-rail fence, which will keep off cattle (the occasional bite of sheep or lambs will rather do good than harm), and keep them hoed. In the following spring, clip off with shears the principal part of the first - year’s shoots. The plants will make very luxuriant shoots during the next two years, after which the posts and rails are to be removed; the branches of the furze must then be collected in the hand, and drawn forward towards the field, while the posts and rails are again put up on the plantation side of the furze, about a foot or eighteen inches within the stems of the plants; and, as each rail is fixed, the branches of furze are disengaged, and fall back against the fence; so that, at a moderate distance, it is no longer seen. When the furze thus becomes thus laid open, the tender parts of all the young shoots are browsed by cattle and sheep, which makes it grow so thick and close, that, by the time the posts and rails decay, it is a perfect fence to the plantation. Different ~ forms may be introduced, occasionally, to vary the effect, which I can assure you is extremely beautiful, especially when the furze is in bloom. It forms a pleasing natural drapery, and always reminds me of Burns’s line, «The lawns Stakes for Standard Roses. 679 wood-fringed in nature’s native taste.” ‘This, I may add, is the cheapest of all flowers. Standard Rose Trees. — As you have condescended to notice, in your Magazine, sosimplean article as a flower-stake, perhaps you will admit my recommendaticn of a sup- port for the French standard roses, which I have found very useful. I send you a sketch (jig. 146.) of an iron one. They should be made after the roses are planted, that 147 680 Plantation Fences and Rose Stakes. the blacksmith may adapt them, in point of height, to the trees. When fixed in the ground, the ring at the top should stand about an inch or two higher than the top of the stock. This ring is fastened to the two iron limbs of the standard by nuts, and is unscrewed, and hung on one of the limbs while the stan- -dard is fixed; it is then raised to its place under the branches of the tree. ‘These standards should not be used until the tree has a sufficient head to cover the top of them. The mode of training I adopt is as follows: —In the spring, I select six or eight of the strongest shoots, and tie them to the ring with tar twine; and if, from their length, this be not sufficient to prevent their blowing about, I confine the end of these shoots to pegs stuck in the ground. All the other shoots are cut back in the usual way. I recommended this mode of training the standard roses to some friends near London, and they were told by their gardeners it would not answer; that the heads of the roses and other stems would become naked, and produce flowers few in number and poor in character. They have since had ocular demonstration to the contrary; and I send you an accurate sketch (fg. 148.), takenin 1831, froma Bizarre de la Chine, when in flower, which this season reached nearly to the ground, flowered most abundantly to the end of its branches, and was truly a splendid object. This tree is six Expeditious Mode of propagating Cape Heaths. 681 years old; those of less vigorous growth should have all the last year’s shoots shortened to about an inch beyond the ring, when brought down and tied to it with matting; by which means their heads are more handsomely formed, and their flowers are shown to more advantage, than when the head is suffered to grow upright en masse ; and I am satisfied that they flower more abundantly. As the appearance of the strings is not very agreeable to a fastidious eye, I send you a sketch (fig. 147.) of another standard, very useful for training roses of the most vigorous growth. The price of the former, as charged ‘to me, was 3s. 6d., three times painted; and of the latter, 5s. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. CHARLES LAWRENCE. The Quems, near Cirencester, Oct. 15. 1832. Art. XVIII. A Description of a Method of propagating Cape Heaths expeditiously. By Mr. T. Rurerr. Sir, From my early days I have been an admirer of plants, both exotic and indigenous ; and, among the former, the ericas, or heaths, have always been favourites, as being, in my opi- nion, one of the most beautiful tribes of plants grown. During a long residence in the west of Cornwall, I was indefatigable in collecting and keeping up a choice assortment of them; and, in order to keep up, as well as collect, I tried many experiments to find out, if possible, a quicker and more certain method of propagating them from cuttings, than by the usual mode adopted, which, however successful, I con- ceived to be tedious; and, having at length succeeded to my most sanguine wishes, as far as it respected the fast-growing and slender-wooded varieties, I considered myself amply repaid for all my pains. — Early in the month of April, or as soon as the young shoots were about an inch long, I made choice of my cuttings. In taking off and trimming them for planting, they were handled as delicately as possible; as, when so young, they are extremely tender. I then cut them with a keen knife, as near as possi- ble to where they had been joined to the old wood, and put them into a pan of water until I had a sufficient number to make up a pot. ‘This done, I made choice of one suitable in size to receive the striking glass; I filled it up nearly two thirds with the siftings of peat, and the remainder with the peat very finely sifted, which I moderately pressed down. After pressing the striking glass on the mould, in order to 682 Expeditious Method of get the line of its circumference, I proceeded, with a dibber about the size of a small quill, to plant the cuttings; which was. done carefully, without pressing them much, rather leaving them to be fixed by watering than with the dibber. The pot being filled with cuttings, ] watered them, standing at some distance, with a very finely perforated syringe, elevated so as to let the water descend on them like a gentle shower of rain. This was repeated several times, until I conceived the whole of the mould to be completely saturated ; after which the glass was set over them, and the pot placed in the front of the green-house. A gentle syringing was repeated every morning for the first three weeks, and, afterwards, every other morning for about three weeks more. At this period many of the cuttings had begun to strike, and, as soon as this was observable, less watering was resorted to. In about ten weeks many of the cuttings were fit for potting off, which was immediately attended to; and, after being potted in thumb pots, they were placed under a hand-glass, or ina cold frame, in a shady situation, where they were gradually hardened by giving air, until they could bear exposure. Great care was taken in removing them from the cutting-pot, by gently raising them with a small piece of wood, cut for the purpose. .They generally rose with-little balis, round the outsides of which I could frequently perceive numerous small fibres protruding themselves, as white as milk. During several years’ practice in raising heaths in the above way, I have many times ob- served the small fibres striking out two or three joints above the surface, and making their way down the cutting to the mould. The success of the above mode, I found, rested principally, if not entirely, upon the state of the cutting, and the health of the mother plant. ‘The cutting should neither be of the strongest nor of the weakest growth; and it is almost needless to add that the plant should be healthy from which the cutting is taken. With regard to the varieties of slow growth, it is but seldom that cuttings can be found on them of the kind to insure success by this method, as they are gene- rally too thick and turgid, as well as the sorts too hardy in their growth; but I am convinced that means might be used with many of them, so as to obtain cuttings that would strike in the above way, and of this I once had a proof. On visit- ing a gentleman’s garden, about ten miles distant, I perceived an Hrica which had been improperly left in a house where early forcing had commenced ; it was so drawn that its former habit. was completely changed. On asking its name, I was ‘told it’ was the H. depréssa. It instantly occurred to me that propagating Cape Heaths. 683 cuttings from it in that state might answer my purpose. Ac- cordingly I begged a few; and the result was, that, under the above treatment, every one of them grew, to the number of about a score. The species of very easy growth, such as the ignéscens, gracilis, &c., I took less pains with, by putting the cuttings under a hand-glass, on a north border, which, under the above treatment of watering and well draining, succeeded to admir- ation. I found, by experience, that the sooner the cuttings were potted off after taking root the better; as, by remaining ‘long in the cutting-pot, they became drawn and sickly. Their drawing might be prevented, by confining one sort to a pot, as air might then be given in any proportion; but in my case it was different, having frequently, through the want of a sufficient number of striking glasses, four or five sorts together in a pot, some of which took less time than others to strike. However, under any circumstances, experience taught me that early potting was best, as I found that they would not remain long in a healthy state in the striking-pot. I had not the opportunity of trying how they would strike in sand by the above method, as I could obtain none of the proper kind in that part of Cornwall where I resided. After potting, when the plants begin to grow, if their tops are taken off, they will throw out side shoots ; and, during the following spring, form nice little bushy plants. The usual practice of daily wiping the glasses is useless in this mode of propagation. I am induced to send you the above, in order, if possible, to give a fresh impulse to the growing of this beautiful tribe of plants, vast numbers of which are so very ornamental to the green-house. Many gardeners, no doubt, are great admirers of them; but, through the difficulty often found in propa- gating them, they are induced to give up the task, and thus deprive themselves of the pleasure they would derive from having a collection of them under their care. On the supposition that from two to three hundred kinds can be propagated by the above simple method, and that some others may be raised from seeds perfected in this country; a choice collection might be kept up at an easy expense, by ‘purchasing now and then a few of those which, on account of their peculiar growth, structure, or delicacy, are difficult to propagate. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. Shortgrove, Essex, Sept. 1832. T. Rureer. THESE practical directions, by Mr. Rutger, in conjunction with those imparted by Mr. M‘Nab, in his very valuable pamphlet on the same sub- ject (see p.210.), will, it is hoped, so much avail the lovers of these loveliest of plants, as to cause them to be henceforth far more commonly cultivated. — J. D. Poa 684 On the Cultivation of ~ Art. XIX. On the Cultivation of the Droseras and Pinguiculas. By Rosert MALLET, Esq. Sir, _ Tue droseras, or sundews, of our bogs have a striking analogy to the Dionz‘a Muscipula of America, and are as worthy of cultivation as native plants, as is the latter as an exotic. There are three species of Drésera, natives of Britain: two of which are found in Ireland. ‘The Drdsera rotundifolia grows about Lough Daw in the county of Wick- low; D. longifolia, at Howth; and both in various bogs about Mullingar. Independently of their singularly beautiful form and struc- ture, and curious motive powers*, they are plants possessing some history, as having once constituted the sole ingredient from which was distilled the celebrated aqua rose-solis, also called rosala, or spirit of sundew. In some old dispensatories it is highly extolled as good for “the sweat,” for convulsions, and the plague. In time, the original recipe of this preparation became neglected, and a compound of burnt brandy, sugar, cinnamon, and milk water, scented with musk, was substituted. The best of this was considered to have been made at Turin; but I know not that any such cordial is now known in Italy. In the time of Louis XIV. another kind of spirit of sun- dew caine into use, the advantages of which are said to have been experienced by thag monarch, when afflicted with ague. The name was all the relation that this latter composition bore to the plant, being “an infusion of anise, fennel, aneth, coriander, &c., in Spanish wine for three weeks,” and in a short time, even its name was corrupted into “du roy,” until finally the compound fell wholly into disuse. The sum of the virtues of these plants seems to consist in their containing an acrid stimulating volatile principle, like that of hor seradish, and the greater number of marsh plants. There are also three species of Pinguicula natives of Bri-. tain. Of these the grandiflora and vulgaris are natives of Ireland.+ Few little plants -are more “beautiful, when in * The question of the sundews possessing motive powers has been recently raised in the Magazine of Natural History, Vol. V. p. 491.; and negative and affirmative answers returned, p. 755. to 758. —J. D. + All three. Pingufcula lusitanica has been found on the borders of bogs in Ireland. Mr, yen Mackay, in his Catalogue of the Plants of Ireland, gives, as its Irish habitats, “ Marshy grounds. Foot of Dublin Mountains, &c.” Ihave seen specimens, gathered in 1829, at Killarney, and in the county of Mayo; and have been informed that it occurs in other parts of Treland. P. vulgaris. A very interesting faculty has been recently ascribed to this species. At the first anniversary meeting of the Berwickshire natu- Droseras and Pinguiculas. AN 685 flower and seen in the sunshine, with their bright green leaves all a-glitter with their pearly studs. The structure of the flowers is well worthy of observation. The ingenious and celebrated Dr. Lewis says that the unctuous and glutinous juice is used, in some places, as an ointment for chaps* and scalds, and that it is used by the common people of the mountainous districts of Wales as a powerful cathartic. This juice also seems to possess some specific action on milk. Linnezeus says that it prevents either the cream or the whey from separating from reindeer’s milk ; but that it decomposes cow’s milk into curds and whey: Lewis, however, says that “ new milk poured upon the fresh leaves on a strainer, and, after quick colature, set by for a day ralists’ club, held at Coldstream, on September 19, 1832, the president, Dr. Johnston (himself the author of a very interesting Flora of Berwick upon Tweed, in 2 volumes), delivered an address, in which, among many observations of interest, are the following, appertaining to P. vulgaris : — “ There is much to learn of the habits and properties of our common plants; and I may mention, as an illustration of this remark, the observ- ation which was made on the butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris) durin our excursion to Cheviot. It was then accidentally observed, that, when specimens of this plant were somewhat rudely pulled up, the flower stalk, previously erect, almost immediately began to bend itself backwards, and formed a more or less perfect segment of a circle; and so, also, if a speci- men is placed in the botanic box, you will in a short time find that the leaves have curled themselves backwards, and now conceal the root by their revolution. Now, the butterwort is a very common plant, yet I am not aware that this fact of its irritability has been ever mentioned.” In the English Flora, vol. i. p. 28, 29., it is quoted from Mr. Drummond, that the leaves of Pinguicula lusitanica are permanent in winter, and those of P. grandiflora are deciduous. It may be added to the description, that those of P. vulgaris are deciduous also ; and that, when they have died back, they leave the heart of the plant in the condition of a scaly bulb, in which state it continues through the winter, and, I believe, is, during this period, as devoid of living roots as of leaves. This economy is also possessed by P. grandiflora, and, I suppose, by every species of Pinguicula. Frost will throw this bulb on the surface of the soil, where it seems to be perfectly unhurt by the frost’s action ; and it is possible that, on the rising of water during the winter season, in the plant’s native places of growth, not a few bulbs get transplanted from one spot of soil to another, and so havea fresh place of growth almost annually. It may be here remarked, that three aquatic plants, the Stratiotes aldides, Calla paldstris, and, I believe, the iMenyanthes trifoliata, are also increased and dispersed by deciduous axillary bulb-like buds. From this economy in Pinguicula vulgaris, I think it is needless to shelter the plant in a frame to protect it from frost; but its concentrated energies, designed for the next year’s display, may be preserved from all dissipation by the protection. The peduncle of P. vulgaris is pubescent, and, I believe, that of P. grandiflora also: this is almost inferable in Lnglish Flora, but is not clearly declared. — J. D. * Sir J. E. Smith, in his English Flora, vol. i. p. 29., says, under P. vulgaris, “ The viscid exudation of the leaves is reputed to be good for the sore dugs of cows; whence the Yorkshire name of Yorkshire sanicle.” —J.D. 686. Two Crops of the Ash-leaved Kidney Potato, or two, becomes thick, tenacious, very agreeable and salu- brious, and throws off no whey, except it be kept long, and that a little of the milk, so thickened, serves to bring fresh milk to the same state.” Probably Lewis never had an oppor- tunity of trying its effects on reindeer’s milk, and only alludes to cow’s milk. It is said to cause diseases in cattle ; but Lewis says no animal will eat it. Go I have successfully adopted a similar method of cultivation with: both these genera. Three or four plants are placed in a pot of 5 in. deep, with some pebbles in the bottom, and over them a piece of Sphag- num, above which the pot is filled with very fine peat. The use of the Sphagnum is, that, whether dead or alive, it en- larges or contracts, by every change of amount of moisture in the pot, and thus always keeps the peat from cohering into a clammy mass, which otherwise it is apt to de. Instead of being shaded, as generally directed, the plants are exposed to the full blaze of sunshine; and it is beautiful to see the leaves of the drosera, some dilating themselves to the warmth and light, and others contracting on and im- prisoning some “flutterer in the beams,” that, in an evil: moment, has been tempted by the nectar of the dewy leaves. The pots are kept plunged to within 13in. of the top in water, during the whole summer; and, on the first appearance of frost, are removed to a dry airy frame, and given less water each day, until, by mid-winter, they are dry; in which state they remain until they begin to show signs of vegetation, when they are removed again to their summer quarters. If left exposed to the open air, during the winter, the roots are invariably pushed out of the ground by frost. With this treatment, three small plants, in one season, will completely fill a pot of the size mentioned. Rospert MAuLer. 94. Capel Street, Dublin, Aug. 1832. : Art. XX. On procuring Two Crops of the Ash-leaved Kidney Potato, in One Year, off the same Ground. By Joun DENsoNn, Senior. Ca Sir, : In each of the last two years I have grown two crops of the ash-leaved kidney potato on the same ground, and each’ of the crops has been a good one. I proceed thus: — In. taking up the first crop, I bury the tops or herbage in the) trench, by :turning the earth, between the rows upon’/them ¢ in One Year, off the same Ground. - 687 and this done, the ground is ready to be planted again. “My first crop, this year, was planted on the 30th of March, and my second on the 13th of July ; the second has been as good as the first, and the potatoes are perfectly ripened: the joint produce of the two crops has been fully at the rate of 960 bushels an acre. I took some of the potatoes of the second crop, of nearly the full size, to market on September the 15th. First Crop.—It is well known to growers of the ash- leaved kidney potato, that it is difficult to prevent its exhaust- ing itself previously to the time for planting it; and that, if seed potatoes of it are allowed to remain too long in the pit, frequently not one third of them will grow. ‘To prevent this, I seldom put them into the pit before Christmas, and take them out in the latter end of February or beginning of March. Second Crop. — Those which I intend for the seed potatoes of the second crop I spread thinly on the floor of an out- house where there is a free current of air. ‘This treatment so much checks the growth of the chits, shoots, or sprouts, that these do not become more than an inch long, and are: individually furnished with a cluster of roots. I plant the potatoes, with the shoots upon them, in this state; and, in planting them, guard carefully against breaking off any of the shoots. The potatoes produced in the second crop are the fitter to” preserve for the next year’s planting, as, when housed or pitted, they are less prone to exhaust themselves by sproutive- ness than are the potatoes produced in the first crop. I have reserved 20 bushels of the produce of my second crop for seed; and intend, next year, to have two crops on all the ground on which I shall plant the ash-leaved kidney. I have planted out plants of the Guernsey cabbage, which will be ready for market in April. By planting the first crop of the ash-leaved kidney, with the chits on, early in May, after the cabbages are sold off, two crops of potatoes and one of cabbages can be procured from the same ground in one year. I may be told that this is exhausting work for the land: I reply, that decayed and decomposed vegetables are the best of manure; and that the more vegetables there are grown, the more is the manure increased in proportion ; whilst every turning up of the soil is a species of fallow. In conclusion, I may/notice that my nephew (who assists me in all I do) suggests that, when the first crop of the ash= ) leaved kidney is taken up before the potatoes are fully ripe» (as, in the desire to get them early to market, ‘isi frequently the: case), it may be well not to bury the herbage from such); as); ° 688 Hatching Chickens in a Bark-bed. he has found, in digging up the second crop, that such herb- age of the first crop, although immersed in the soil, had. produced many minute potatoes: an effect unwelcome to those who, like myself, desire to grow their successive crops unmixedly. It is scarcely necessary to add, that this effect does not result from the buried herbage derived from ripened potatoes; and those of my first crop were quite ripe previous to the 13th of July, the date at which my second crop was planted. I am, Sir, yours, &c. JoHN DENSON, sen. Waterbeach, near Cambridge, Nov. 1832. Art. XXI. Minor Communications. < Hatcuine Chickens in the Bark-bed of a Hot-house.— A friend of mine was very successful last year in hatching chickens in the tan pit of a hot-house. His method was to place a half-hogshead barrel in the tan, which was brought up all round it nearly to the top of the cask, and was merely coyered with a flat board. ‘The eggs were placed in a basket at the bottom, and covered with a piece of flannel. The heat re- quired is 104° of Fahrenheit ; a degree or two above or below that point will not destroy the eggs, but the nearer it is kept to that heat the better. It may be supposed that it will re- quire a great deal of trouble to keep it up to this nicety, but it is not.so troublesome as may at first sight be imagined. It may be also asked, what advantage is to be derived from this process, when plenty of sitting hens can be procured? I answer, that the chickens may be hatched much earlier than hens will want to sit; in fact, the hatching may be commenced as soon as eggs can be procured; and, of course, the poultry to be obtained will fetch a much greater price from their early production. They may be easily reared, by being kept in the house where they are hatched, until they are big enough to be put out of doors, which will be in about a fort- night or three weeks. When the cask is once at the proper heat, it may be kept up to the desired point without. much trouble, for several months; and the average number of chickens will exceed what is obtained from hens, I have read a French work by De Reaumur, giving a very circum- stantial and interesting account of hatching chickens. by heat./; produced by horse dung, and I have produced chickens by |»: that means myself; but the heat requires to be very often’ Lord Vernon’s Tillage Hoe. 689 renewed by fresh dung, and the place must be particularly favourable to the undertaking. ‘There is also great risk of the germ in the eggs being destroyed by the damp effluvia arising from the dung, which causes the success to be very uncertain. Besides, every gentleman’s gardener has a tan bed at his command. I am also of opinion that many of your correspondents might connect a hot closet with the stove used for heating their houses, or might allow the pipes for circu- lating hot water, where that system is adopted, to pass through it; by which means it might be kept up to the required heat with very little trouble. With respect to the tan bed, it is reduced to a certainty by the experience of my friend. He has hatched several broods this spring ; and I can assure you that the chickens brought up in this way have thriven and increased in size much more than those hatched and brought up by a hen; and that this has been proved several times, by a comparison between chickens hatched in the different modes the same day. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — A Constant Reader of the Gardener’s Magazine. Chichester, April 17. 1832. Lord Vernon's new Tillage Hoe. — This implement, which was lately exhibited to the Horticultural Society, is said, in a printed paper, which was distributed at the same time, to “ give an expeditious and deep tillage, in many cases superior to digging or forking.” In drilling, preparing land for planting, or in earthing up, its use is said to be equally advantageous. It may be had at Mr. Charlwood’s, and in Derby. It is nothing more than the Spanish hoe of our cor- respondent Mentor, figured in our Vol. II. p. 233., but differ- ing from our figure in having a long handle. Similar hoes, with long handles, have been made, at our request, at Weir’s manufactory, Oxford Street, since 1826. — Cond. Ficus stipulata 'Thunberg, remarkably fine in a Stove in the Gardens at Merly House. — Sir, In 1822 I received from my worthy and esteemed friend Mr. Henderson, at Earl Fitz- william’s, Milton, near Peterborough, some cuttings of this _ plant. They were struck in the ordinary way ; and one was put in a 32-sized pot, and by mere chance placed on the front of the stove, at one end, close against the front sash. The end of this house is not glass, but a brick wall plastered over in the common way. After the plant had stood in this position for some months, without any notice further than receiving a supply of water occasionally, it began to push, and to attach itself to the wall very firmiy. It soon reached the bottom of the rafter, and turned up the end of the house just before the rafter, covering about a foot in depth down the wall. In about eighteen months after this, it reached the top end of the Vou. VIII. — No. 41. yoo 690 Ficus stipuldta at Merly House. rafter, 18 ft.; in all, 21 ft. from the pot or root. It now threw its branches downward, covering the greater part of the whole end of the house; and began turning itself along the back wall of the house, just below the wall-plate. In about three years’ time it reached the farther end of the house, 35 ft.; and In its progress covered about a space of 18 in. wide or deep. On reaching this end of the house, which is glass, of course it could go no farther; and it now began, as at the other end, to extend its branches downwards, to complete its undertaking, namely, that of covering the whole of the back wall; which it now bids fair to do, having nearly accomplished that object at the present time: when this is effected, it wil! have ex- tended from the root 56 ft. by 10 ft. It is now throwing out very vigorous shoots and leaves : the leaves have a deep green, glossy appearance. About September last it first showed fruits, which are now about seven or eight in number, and nearly the size of the common brown fig just before it begins to ripen. Whether these will ripen or not, I cannot say. I have no doubt but that, in the course of the summer, there will be an abundant show of fruit on it; and I mean to encourage some of its branches over the wire trellis used for the vines under the rafters, to give it a better chance of ripen- ing its fruit. ‘The plant has extended its roots into the solid brick wall in the end of the house; and a brick compartment, directly under where the pot stands, was filled with mould, not with the intention of giving it support, but for growing some other plants in: this it soon found out, and took pos- session of, and into it an immensely strong root has found its way ; although the pot which first contained it still remains in the same place as at first, and contains the original part of the root, and has a deep pan under it. I now supply it plenti- fully with water at the roots, taking care to fill up the pan with water every day, the whole of the contents of which is mvari- ably absorbed before the next day, and very frequently I syringe it all over its leaves, with which it seems highly delighted. J should feel obliged by you or any of your readers informing me whether the fruit is fit for the dessert; and, should you wish it, I shall feel pleasure in forwarding to you a specimen of the fruit, should it reach to maturity on this plant. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— W. Wilson. Merley Gardens, Feb. 28.1832. Mr. Wilson, in a subsequent communication (dated June 28. 1832), has informed us, that the first crop of fruits dropped off without ripening, and that the plant is now bear- ing a plentiful second one. He is very desirous to learn if other correspondents have witnessed its bearing fruit in 2 e . e te) Britain, whether the fruit has been ripened, and whether, Olralis Déppei as a Border Plant. ‘ 691 when ripened, its merits will sustain for it a place in desserts. Information, too, on the native habits of this species, and any use to which its fruit or other parts may be applied in its native country, he is likewise anxious for. In example of the extraordinary vigour of this particular plant, Mr. Wilson remarks, * perhaps you will scarcely credit me when I inform you that its roots have penetrated into the solid brick wall which forms the end of the stove, and has actually forced out door-posts so much, that it has several times become neces- sary to ease the door that it might be opened and shut. The whole back of the house has now a most beautiful appear- ance from the fine dark shining leaves of the plant, and the strong healthy shoots hanging in wild profusion all over this space. In the size of the leaves on these shoots, and near the root, there is so great a difference, that you would scarcely. believe that both were produced by one plant. The leaves which grow at about 3 ft. or 4 ft. from the root are about 1% in. in length, and an inch in breadth at their broadest part; while those which are borne on the shoots mentioned are 4in. in length, and 2;%>in. in breadth; their outline in both cases being, as is well known, ovate but pointed.” — W. Wilson. On the back wall of the stove in the Cambridge Botanic Garden is a plant of Ficus stipulata, which has been growing there these twenty, and very probably thirty, years. It covers several square yards of space, and is often cut back to repress its trespasses. During the fifteen years I have known the plant there, I am not aware that it has ever shown fruit. This species, it is said, thrives in a green-house, and it abounds in the clasping root-like tendrils analogous to those of the com- mon or of the broad-leaved ivy.—J. D. O’ralis Déppei increases very rapidly as a border plant particularly when grown in large masses; and its beautiful green and brown trefoil leaves are as pleasing as the flower. It should be taken up before the frost, and kept in pots, nearly dry, all the winter; it should be potted in the end of February, and kept till May in the green-house or frame, and then planted out when the frosts are over. Youshould strongly recommend it. — H. Bb. Chancery Lane, August 7. 1832. A Sketch of the History of the Chinese Chrysanthemum, [The following communication is abridged from a paper by E. Rudge, Esq., President of the Vale of Evesham Horticul- tural Society, which was read at a meeting of that Society, on June 25. 1828.] — Linneeus, in 1753, first published this plant as a species, with two of its varieties, under the name of Chrys- anthemum indicum, in the first edition of his Species Plantarum; YY 2 692 History of the Chinese Chrysanthemum. the same plant, under the name of Matricaria, having been given by Keempfer, in 1712, in his account of the plants of Japan, where it is cultivated by the natives in their gardens ; and he describes eight double varieties of the genus, of various colours. It is also faouriened by Breynius, Pivcenee Rheede, and Petiver. ‘Thunberg, in his Flora Japonica, published in 1784, mentions it to be growing spontaneously near Nagasakt and other places in Japan; and Loureiro describes it, in his Flora of Cochin-China, as one of the plants of that country. Rumphius, in his very elaborate work on the Plants of Am- boyna, published in 1750, is more particular in his information respecting this plant than any preceding author: he mentions five varieties of the white, yellow, and red, as being cultivated at Amboyna; that both the natives and the Dutch plant it in the borders of their gardens, where it does not thrive so well as in pots; and that, if it remains more than two years in the same spot, it degenerates, becomes less woody, and often perishes. The Chinese, by whom it is held in high estima- tion (as may be observed from its being so frequently found drawn and figured on their porcelain), pay much attention to its culture: they keep it in pots and jars, placing it before the windows of their apartments; and decorate their tables with it at their entertainments; on which occasions, he that produces the largest flower is considered as conferring the greatest honour on his guests. To effect this, it is kept by them in a dwarfish state; and, when coming into flower, of the three blossoms which usually terminate each branch, two are pinched off; by which treatment the remaining flower grows larger. ‘The varieties of this plant, so numerous in the gar- dens of the Chinese, and cultivated by them with so much art and attention, and become thereby objects of so much attraction to the British gardener, were first introduced from France in 1790, having been brought from China to Mar- seilles in 1789. Before 1808, eight new varieties were intro- duced from China by Sir Abraham Hume and Mr. Evans. Between the years 1816 and 1823, seventeen new varieties were added to the list; which has at this time been so much further increased by different importations and cultivators, that there are now upwards of fifty varieties existing in the garden of the Horticultural Society at Chiswick. ‘The great variety and beauty of these flowers, when cultivated to the perfection of which they are capable, render them a superb acquisition to our gardens, and that at a season when our gardens would otherwise have little gaiety to boast of. The facility with which they are cultivated will occasion them to ‘become so common, that our cottage gardens will become as Hardy Maize. — Rheum austriacum. 693 gay in the months of November and December as the Chinese rose has now made them during the months of spring and summer [and, indeed, autumn may be added.] — Ldward ‘Rudge, F.RS. LS. Sc., President of the Vale of Evesham Horticultural Society. A hardy Variety of Maize. — Fourteen years ago, one Mr. Bradbury, an eminent botanist, called upon me. He was then just returned from his travels in North America, where he had been collecting plants. He had travelled a consider- able way up the Missouri, and, when upon that river, he heard of a variety of maize cultivated near the Rocky Moun- tains, which, he said, he was sure, by the account he received of it, would ripen even in the Highlands of Scotland. As he intended to go again to the western parts of America, he said he would endeavour to get a sample of the seed, and send it to England. A considerable time after this I heard that he had died at St. Louis, soon after his return to America: of course, nothing has been heard of the corn. Now, as there are often considerable sums of money spent to procure, and naturalise to the English climate, foreign plants which neither are, nor will be, equal to the maize in point of real value, I think it would be well worth the attention of some Agricultural or Horticultural Society, or of some private in- dividual who could afford to bestow sufficient trouble and expense, to obtain a variety which would ripen in every part of Britain where other grain would. Any one who has friends in the western parts of North America might, perhaps, obtain some seeds of the variety mentioned by Mr. Bradbury. —WM. Rothwell, Farmer and Nurseryman, Spout Bank, Lanca- shire, March 29. 1832. papi Rheum austriacum was figured some few years back in Sweet’s Flower-Garden. In consequence of its being strongly recommended in that work, I was induced to get a plant ; Gut having some scruples as to the effect it might produce, if used in tarts, I have abstained from using its leafstalks until this year. I find it, in point of flavour, very superior to any rhubarb I ever tasted, having a very strong and pleasant acid ; scarcely, if at all, inferior to the unripe gooseberry, and pro- ducing no unpleasant effects; in fact, in this last respect, I perceive no difference between it and the rhubarb usually grown for tarts. I am therefore desirous, through the medium of your Magazine, tc recommend the cultivation of it very strongly to those persons who generally supply the markets ; as I have very little doubt it only requires to be known to become in considerable request. Perhaps the greatest ob- stacle to its being cultivated for general consumption. is the YyY3 694 Preventive of the Gooseberry Caterpillar. lateness of its vegetation, as, with me, it is not fit for use before the second or third week in June; but I have planted it in rather an unfavourable situation, with a northern aspect. Probably under other circumstances more congenial, it would come forward much earlier. The leaves are uncommonly large; and I find two or three stalks quite sufficient for a moderate-sized pudding or tart, although I have taken no par- ticular pains to encourage their growth. I have very little doubt that it is susceptible of great improvement, and that it might be rendered as profitable, at least, as the other sort. Should the merits of this species ever become generally known, I feel assured it will suspend the old sort entirely, as the latter has a flatness in the flavour, which renders it very insipid compared with Rheum austriacum. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— £. London, July 11. 1832. On preventing the Prevalence of the Gooseberry Caterpillar. — Sir, I have seen, in your Magazine, recipes for destroying caterpillars, and now do myself the pleasure to communicate one for banishing them from ground infested by them. Sup- pose all your gooseberry and currant bushes to be planted in squares, in the first week in November: clear away all the weeds from them, and give the whole a good coat of dung close into the stem of the bushes. ‘Then dig a trench one spade deep right down the middle of the rows, throwing the earth on each side over the dung, so that it may be covered 1 in. thick. The whole, when finished, will appear like a plot of potatoes that are called ridges in Ireland, and used to be called lazy beds in Scotland: indeed, the process of covering the dung is the same. In the beginning of April, or just when the buds have fairly broken into leaf, fork up the whole with a dung- fork, fill up the trench, and make the whole level again; but do not rake it at this time. Recollect to be particular in lay- ing on the dung the first week of November, and to fork in the spring as the leaves come out; for, I apprehend, a good deal of the success of the thing depends on this ; and, besides, the fruit in size and flavour is improved in a wonderful degree. Gooseberry and currant bushes should not have dung dug in about the roots, nor should the spade be at all applied about them; for nothing is more injurious to them. Whether the juice of the dung destroys the eggs of the caterpillar that are deposited about the roots of the bushes, or whether the extra- heat created by it brings out the caterpillars before there is any food for them, I will leave to the naturalist or curious to determine: but, one thing is certain, whoever follows the above may bid good bye to the caterpillar. It is not requisite to give a heavy coat of dung every season; but trenching Tobacco Water.— Grape Vines. 695 them as above, with a little dung about the stems and roots, and forking in the spring, must not be neglected, or else the caterpillar will appear. Bushes round borders may be served. the same as those in squares, by clearing away whatever grows about their roots, laying on dung, and covering with earth. Dung well rotted, from the frames, is what I have always used. Iam, Sir, yours, &c.— James Hart. Drum- condra, near Dublin, Sept. 2. 1832. Tobacco. (p. 42. 491.) — Sir, Your correspondents having given sufficient information on the growing of tobacco, I shall merely offer for their information, not having previously seen itin your publication, that, previously to burning it for raising smoke and destroying insects, I pour boiling water over it, by which means I obtain tobacco water of strength propor- tionate to the quantity of tobacco and water used. I have thus used it for the last ten years with unvarying success; the tobacco being full as useful for fumigation, and the water equal to what I used to buy from the tobacconists, after this process. I shall add, that this discovery was made when I first began to grow my own tobacco, and was made as fol- lows : — In filling Read’s fumigating apparatus with unwashed tobacco, I found the instrument scon rendered useless by the melting, as I suppose, of the salt of the tobacco; thereby clogging the orifice of the machine. I then washed the to- bacco, dried it, and found it burn perfectly well; and at the same time procured my tobacco water. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — W.% Sept. 24. 1832. Lang ford’s Incomparable Grape (Lindley’s Gude, p. 201.) is preferably increasable by Eyes or Buds. — Sir, Mr. Lang- ford, some time back, sent me cuttings of his Incomparable grape. He stated that he prefers raising it from eyes, which he plants like bulbs; and, with the cuttings, he sent me a few eyes cut ready for planting. I have tried both the cuttings and the eyes; and the eyes have made fine shoots and are in leaf, while the cuttings are not. I am, Sir, yours, &ce.— M. Saul. Sulyard Street, Lancaster, April 18.1832. Mr. Pillans’s Vines. (p. 629.) —I see a short notice of our Horticultural Association (p. 629.), in which you refer to Mr. Pillans’s mode of cultivating the vine, and express your rea- diness to communicate it to the public. The fact is, that ‘Mr. Pillans takes an eye from a vine in the month of March; and from it produces, in the following April or May twelve- month, a handsome plant for his master’s table, bearing several bunches of fine ripe fruit. Some of your readers will not credit this; but I have seen it: that is to say, I went through Lord Ducie’s forcing-houses in May last, and ¥Y 4 Be 696 Canker in young Fruit Trees. saw pots of vines with ripe fruit on them. I was informed the eyes had been taken from the parent vines only fourteen or fifteen months previously. I saw others in every interme- diate stage of growth between them and the pots in which the eyes had just been inserted ; and I understood Mr. Pillans to say that he hoped to produce grapes for the table, in suc- cession, throughout the year, on this plan. I believe that this process has not been communicated to any one. I anticipate your opinion, that all who claim to be citizens in the republic of science are bound to contribute their individual discoveries for the general weal, in exchange for the advantages they reap from a similar devotion on the part of their brother citizens. I quite approve this doctrine, as applied toa certain class ; but, I confess, I think that persons in the situation of Mr. Pillans may fairly look for a more substantial compensation for the communication of so valuable a discovery as this, than the occupation of a niche in the temple of Fame; though I would not recommend an address from the House of Commons to His Majesty ; which was, for aught that appears to the contrary, gravely presented in a certain case of a similar kind. I think the Horticultural Society should encourage the communica- tion of important discoveries, by professional gardeners, by — substantial rewards. Every department of the gardens at Woodchester bears ample testimony to the great skill, atten- tion, and zeal of Mr. Pillans, who is evidently a very meri- torious servant. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — Charles Laurence. Cirencester, Oct. 15. 1832. ; -Canker on young Fruit Trees. —-'Three years ago, I was much annoyed at finding several young pear trees one mass of disease from top to bottom; which, I conceive, must have been infected when sent to me, three years before, as they were planted in the best of soil. On referring to a work on gardening, I found some palliatives recommended ; but it was observed that the most effective plan was, to take up the tree and plant a fresh one. I did not much like throwing away three years’ growth of roots, which, I knew, had been extend- ing themselves under every advantage of soil; and I thought of cutting off the heads to within I ft. of the ground, and inserting healthy grafts from other varieties. I was toid this could be of no avail, inasmuch as the sap, passing through the diseased trunk, would infect the grafts. On consideration, this did not appear to me to be a necessary consequence, as the qualities of the chyle (if I may so term it) secreted from the descending sap, to which the future tree would be indebted for its growth, would depend much more on the scion thap the stock. I determined, at all events, to try the experiment, Ale from Mangold Wurzel. 697 and headed down and grafted several trees. It has exceeded my most sanguine expectations. The new heads are of extra- ordinary g crowth: three of them have borne well this year 5 the wood of all is extremely vigorous and healthy, and without any symptom of disease of any kind. Many of your scientific readers have probably performed the same experiment, on the same process of reasoning; but, as the result was contrary to the anticipations of several experienced gardeners, I commu- nicate it, in the hope of saving many a useful though cankered stock from destruction. — Id. Monstrous Pear. — Sir, There is now growing, in a gar- den in this town, a monstrous jargonelle pear, which may be thus described: — From the first bloom, which took place early in the spring, a perfect pear was produced; and, after the pear had grown some time, it sent out a flower from its eye, and produced there a second pear; and the second pear afterwards sent out two flowers from its eye, and these pro- duced two pears: so that now there are four perfect pears growing connectedly. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — M. Saul. Lan- caster, July 8. 1832. A pear, with an imperfectly formed second pear protruding from its end, was sent us from a neighbour’s garden in Bays- water just after receiving the above communication. A couple of monstrous pears will be found figured in Vol. IV. p. 263. fig. 78. — J. D. On the Use of the Seed-down of Typha for stuffing Bedding Sor the Poor. — When these seeds are ripe, they fall in great wool-flocks from the stalk; and as Zypha grows wild in many places, they could be procured in abundance. When beaten for some time, they separate, and open all their balloons, so as to become as soft and as elastic as feathers ; and, from their hygrometric expansibility and contractiveness, I apprehend they would never get into clots or lumps if sewed up into a bag or bedtick. I should hope that this hint will be not wholly useless to your Encyclopedia of Cottage Architecture. — Robert Mallet. 94. Capel Street, Dublin, Oct. 1832. A good Ale may be made from the Roots of Mangold Wurzel in the following manner : — Take one third of malt, two thirds of mangold wurzel liquor, and about a fifth part of treacle, adding hops at the rate of six ounces to nine gallons. Barrel and work with yeast in the usual manner. The mangold wurzel liquor is thus obtained: clear the roots, pare off the outer rind, slice and boil till they are quite soft, and then squeeze off the liquor.— A Friend to the Cottager. 698 REVIEWS. Art. I. Catalogue of Works on Gardening, Agriculture, Botany, Rural Architecture, &c., lately published, with some Account of those considered the most interesting. Don, George, F.L.S.: A General System of Gardening and Botany, containing a complete Enumeration and Descrip- tion of all Plants hitherto known; with their Generic and Specific Characters, Places of Growth, ‘Time of Flowering, the Manner in which they are cultivated, and their Uses in Medicine and Domestic Economy; preceded by an Intro- duction to the Linnean and Natural Systems, and a Glos- sary of the Terms used. Founded upon Miller’s Gardener’s Dictionary, and arranged according to the Natural System. In 4 quarto volumes. Vol. II. 875 pages, with numerous Woodcuts, 3/. 12s.; or in monthly Parts, 6s. each. Lon- don, 1832. In p. 203. of our current volume we have sketched the scope and plan of this work, and noticed the first volume of it: we have now (Noy. 19.) to announce the appearance of the second volume, just published. Our botanical and flori- cultural readers who have not already enabled themselves to judge of the work by procuring the first volume, or parts of it, will oblige us by referring to our remarks on p. 203, 204., as their doing this will render unnecessary our again indicating its plan and scope: but, indeed, the full title above given, attentively perused, will alone suffice to do this, if accom- panied by one little objection, previously expressed by us on p- 204., that, as the “ gardening” notices in the work only extend to directions for cultivating, propagating, and dispos- ing in the garden the genera and species of plants described, the work does not fully answer to one part of its title, that of its being “a general system of gardening.” With this slight general objection, we proceed to notice very briefly the second volume. The second volume commences with the extensive second subclass Calycifloree, and describes thirty-nine natural orders included in this subclass; and the remainder belonging to it will form the initial part of the third volume. The vast order Leguminosee occupies in the present volume 385 pages, and. so supplies descriptions of a comparatively endless number of Don’s System of Gardening and Botany. 699 species of the pretty plants of this really ornamental and very interesting, and, we may say, very natural order; for, who does not recognise the pea-podded plants, as they are familiarly called, all the world over? The orders Amygdalez, Rosaces, Pomaceee, Onagrarie, Lythrariz, Melastomaceze, and Myr- taceee, all and each of which contain plants so very beautiful, fall into this volume. Perhaps an abatement of our objection above expressed to the gardening title of this work is due to its talented and prodigiously industrious author ; for, in glancing through the volume, we see, under Amyedalus, no fewer than eleven pages of gardening information on the peach and nectarine, enumerating the kinds, noticing their comparative qualities and merits, and supplying directions for their successful cultivation both in the open air and in houses. The same kind of information is supplied under Apricot, Plum, and Cherry; Apple and Pear; and, probably, in several other cases which we have overlooked. We cannot stay longer on the volume than to say, that, were it only for the strictly botanical stock of information which is amassed into the work, it ought to be possessed by every studier and cultivator of plants in the world, but espe- cially by those of Britain. Especially by those of Britain, because such have previously had no comprehensive work in our native language to which to make access for the determin- ation of the names, habits, and affinities of the plants they cultivate; by those of the continents of Europe and America (and these include nearly all the botanical world), because, independently of this work availing those who know the language in which it is written, in the same manner, and almost to the same extent, as it will the British plant lovers and cultivators, it will be very useful to botanists universally, as supplying to them a palpable indication of the present state of botany in Britain; and this, without incurring to us the charge of gross nationality, may fairly be deemed a pretty accurate indication of the state of systematic botany in the entire world. For, besides the acquaintance with the dis- coveries in, and contributions to, the science by foreigners, with which their publications, preserved in our libraries, make us acquainted, we possess fruitful original resources in our colonies, our commerce to the remotest shores, and in the enterprise of our travellers, who, for some years past, have manifested a most commendable interest in collecting the ne- cessary materials to extend our knowledge of nature. Of this accumulated stock of materials, a comprehensive systematic catalogue, containing short descriptive notices of the objects enumerated in it, has for some years past been wanted, and this want it is the office of the present work to supply. 700 | Gilpin’s Practical Hints. Gilpin, S., Esq.: Practical Hints on Landscape-Gardening. 8vo. London, 1832. 21s. We have read this work with pleasure, and only regret that we cannot spare room to enter into its merits at greater leneth. The name of Gilpin will inspire with respect every one who has perused the numerous excellent works, by the late author of that name, on landscape scenery. Mr. Gilpin was the contemporary and intimate friend of the justly cele- brated author of the Observations on Modern Gardening ; and it cannot be denied that this work, and the writings of Mr. Gilpin, did more, in their day, to improve the public taste in regard to rural beauty, than all the other writings of the same kind, then published, put together. It is no ordinary presump- tion in favour of the writer whose work we are noticing, that he is collaterally related to the author of the Essays on “Forest Scenery. Mr. Gilpin avows his object to be, to reduce to practice the principles of taste developed by Sir Uvedale Price, in his Essays on the Picturesque. In his application of these prin- ciples to the situation of the house, the character of the sur- rounding scenery, the approach, and the plantations, we know not that there is a single hint, so far as these hints go, to which we would object; and there is one, on the cha- racter of lodges, which is original; viz., that sometimes the character of the lodge should be determined by that of the situation, rather than by that of the house. We entirely sympathise with the author in his defence of the irregular outlines of plantations on even surfaces, and only wonder that he should attach so much importance to the articles in the Quarterly Review, on Sir Henry Steuart’s Planter’s Guide and Monteath’s Practical Forester ; even though they are understood to have been written by Sir Walter Scott. The truth is, that little dependence is to be placed on a fluent writer like Sir Walter Scott, whose main object was effect, on any subject in which science or definite views are required. Witness the rash assertion, in one of the reviews in question, that the degeneracy of the Scotch pine is owing to nurserymen importing the seeds of that tree from Canada. (See our Vol. IV. p. 315.) We agree also with Mr. Gilpin in his views and statements respecting the Planter’s Guide of Sir Henry Steuart. How- ever much Sir Henry may have shown of physiological knowledge in his work, he certamly cannot be complimented on his taste in laying out grounds; and, in proof of this, we should quote against him the same passage which has been quoted by Mr. Gilpin, viz., that in which Sir Henry recommends a juvenile work of ours (4 Treatise on Country on Landscape-Gardening. 701 Residences) published at a time when we had hardly attained the years of manhood, as deserving of more attention than the Essays on the Picturesque. The only department of landscape-gardening which we wish we had seen treated more at length in Mr. Gilpin’s work, is that which respects the introduction of exotic trees and shrubs in artificial scenery. ‘There are various other beauties besides those of the picturesque, which ought to engage the attention of the landscape-gardener ; and one of the principal of these is, what may be called the botany of trees and shrubs. In our opinion, a landscape-gardener knows but a part of his profession, who is not conversant with the numerous families of American and other trees which will thrive in the open air in Britain. Mere pictu- resque improvement is not enough in these enlightened times : it is necessary to understand that there is such a character of art as the gardenesque, as well as the picturesque. The very term gardenesque, perhaps, will startle some readers; but we are convinced, nevertheless, that it is a term which will soon find a place in the language of rural art. Landscape-garden- ing, it will be allowed, is, to a certain extent, an art of imi- tation. Now, an imitative art is not one which produces fac similes of the things to be imitated; but one which produces imitations, or resemblances, according to the manner of that art. Thus, sculpture does not attempt colour, nor painting to raise surfaces in relief; and neither attempt to deceive. In the like manner, the imitator, in a park or pleasure-ground, of a landscape composed of ground, wood, and water, does not produce fac similes of the ground, wood, and water, which he sees around him on every side; but of ground, wood, and water, arranged in imitation of nature, according to the principles: of his particular art. The character of this art has varied- from the earliest times to the present day; but, profoundly; examined, the principle which guided the artist remains the same; and the successive fashions that have prevailed will be found to confirm our view of the subject, viz., that all imi- tations of nature worthy of being characterised as belong- ing to the fine arts are not fac-simile imitations, but imitations of manner. ‘To apply this principle to the planting of trees in park or pleasure-ground scenery; nature, in any given locality, makes use of a certain number of trees found indi- genous there; but the garden imitator of natural woods in- troduces either other forms and dispositions of the same kinds of trees, as in the geometric style; or the same disposition of other species of trees, as in the most improved practice of the modern style. In neither case does the artist produce a correct fac simile of nature; for, if he did, however beautiful: 702 Matthews Naval Timber. the scene copied, the beauty produced would be merely that of repetition. But we have neither room nor time at present fully to illustrate this theory. Let it suffice for us to state, for the consideration of those of our readers who. have re- flected on the subject, that there is as certainly, in gardening, as an art of imitation, the gardenesque, as there is, in painting and sculpture, the picturesque and sculpturesque. Matthew, Patrick: On Naval Timber and Arboriculture ; with Critical Notes on Authors who have recently treated the Subject of Planting. Svo, 400 pages. London, 1831. 12s. In our Number for February, 1831 (Vol. VII. p. 78.), we have given the title of this work, with a promise of a farther notice. ‘This is, however, now so retrospective a business, that we shali perform it as briefly as possible. ‘The author introductorily maintains that the best interests of Britain con- sist in the extension of her dominion on the ocean; and that, as a means to this end, naval architecture is a subject of pri- mary importance; and, by consequence, the culture and pro- duction of naval timber is also very important. He explains, by description and by figures, the forms and qualities of the planks and timbers most in request in the construction of ships; and then describes those means of cultivating trees, which he considers most effectively conducive to the produc- tion of these required planks and timbers. ‘* ‘The British forest trees suited for naval purposes,” enu- merated by the author, are, oak, Spanish chestnut, beech, Scotch elm, English elm, red-wood willow (Salix fragilis), red- wood pine, and white larch. On each of these he presents a series of remarks regarding the relative merits of their timber ; and even notices, under each, the varieties of each, and the relative merits of these varieties. Indeed, our author insists particularly on the necessity of paying the greatest attention to the selection, both for planting and for ultimate appropriation, of particular varieties, he contending that vegetable bodies are so susceptible of the influence of circumstances, as soil, climate, treatment of the seed, culture of the seedling, &c. &c., as to be modified and modifiable into very numerous varieties, and that it is an essential object to select the variety most adapted to the circumstances of the plot of ground to be planted. ‘This may be very true; but it is also true that extreme will be the difficulty of diffusing, among those most engaged in the operative processes of forestry, sensitive atten- tion to these points. ‘* Miscellaneous Maiter connected with Naval Timber.? Under this head the author has remarks on nurseries, planting, pruning timber, and the relations of our marine. Lindley’s Principles of Horticulture. 703: The last chapter is a political one; and, indeed, through- out the book proofs abound that our author is not one of those who devote themselves to a subject without caring for its ultimate issues and relations ; consequently his habit of mind propels him to those political considerations which the subject, ‘‘ our marine,” naturally induces: benefiting man universally is the spirit of the author’s political faith. Two hundred and twenty-two pages are occupied by “ No- tices of authors relative to timber,” in which strictures are presented on the following works: — Monteath’s Forester’s Guide ; Nicol’s Planter’s Calendar ; Billington.On Planting ; For syth On Fruit and Forest Trees; Mr. Withers’s writings ; Steuart’s Planter’s Guide ; Sir Walter Scott’s critique, and Cruickshank’s Practical Planter. ‘The author’s opinions on the opinions and practices of these writers must avail the patient investigator of arboriculture, and those who delight in the comparison of divers and diverse opinions. This part of the book is one which has been, or will be, read with con- siderable interest by the authors of the above works and their partisans. An appendix of 29 pages concludes the book, and receives some parenthetical evolutions of certain extraneous points which the author struck upon in prosecuting the thesis of his book. ‘This may be truly termed, in a double sense, an extraordinary part of the book. One of the subjects discussed in this appendix is the puzzling one, of the origin of species and varieties ; and if the author has hereon origin- ated no original views (and of this we are far from certain), he has certainly exhibited his own in an original manner. His whole book is written in a vigorous, cheerful, pleasing tone; and although his combinations of ideas are sometimes start- linely odd, and his expression of them neither simple nor lucid, for want of practice in writing, he has produced a book which we should be sorry should be absent from our library. We had thought of presenting an abstract of the author’s prescriptions for pruning trees intended for the production of plank ; but, on second thought, we shall omit them, and refer the reader for them to the book of the author himself. Lindley, John, F.R.S. &c., Professor of Botany in the Uni- versity of London, and Assistant-Secretary to the Horti- cultural Society of London: An Ontine of the first Principles of Horticulture. 12mo, 72 pages. 1832. 2s. — This is a valuable compendium of horticultural maxims. It may be called the gardener’s “ Book of Proverbs.” We entirely agree with the professor, in what he states, in his well written preface, that such elementary works “ tend essentially to the advancement of horticulture, if the physiological prin- 704 Lindley’s Principles of Horticulture. ciples upon which its operations depend for success were reduced toa series of simple laws, that could be readily borne in. mind by those who might not be willing to occupy them- selves with the study; in detail, of the complicated phenomena of vegetable life.” ‘This is perfectly obvious; because, when the principles of any science can be set forth in a few cogent aphorisms, the whole is more readily comprehended, retained in the memory, and applied, than if they were conpeyed.i ina lengthened train of words. It is not so, however, with the rules of the art or practical operations of gardening. ‘These cannot be taught by axioms: as such they would be of little use to the tyro, and therefore they are almost entirely omitted in the work before us; the author’s design being only to mark: the principles of the science which connect the operations of the gardener with the physiology and economy of plants, The book is composed of 369 paragraphs, each of which contains some fact or principle, or some opinion. They are well selected, and expressed with the author’s usual ability : the botanical distinctions are accurate, and the physiological allusions generally correct. If there be any defects, they are attributable only to the studied brevity and paucity of detail. Some parts, we must say, are enigmatical, and will only serve to puzzle the practical man. For these defects, however, the professor is scarcely accountable, because they are evi- dently borrowed notions from our very first authorities, to whom it is perfectly natural Mr. Lindley should be disposed to pay some kind of deference, more especially as, during his most active years, he has been more in the cabinet than in the field, more in the ‘ court than in camp.” We do not mean to infer that Mr. Lindley would surrender his own opinion through sheer complaisance; but there are many things in vegetable physiology that it is his duty to speak of, which he has never had time to examine for himself. Those parts of the book that are, we think, problematical, and which have a pretty strong hold on the public mind, as well as on that of our author, cannot well be adverted to without leading us into a much longer statement than may be necessary on the present occasion ; but we would beg leave to recommend to Mr. Lindley hincele the reconsideration of a few of his repre- sentations, viz., ‘the secretions which solidify the heart-wood are communicated from the bark inwards.” (p.22.) Who has detected this invisible process? Some leaf-buds are said to be “ adventitious, and may be generated by sap in a state of great accumulation and activity.” (p.29. ; Is this possible ? “ A flower is in reality a stunted branch.” (p. 34.) Does not this amount to a denial that the fructiferous organs have real identity in the system, and to describing them as nothing more than fortuitous associations of inferior appendages ? Are the Lindley’s Introduction to Botany. 705 circumstances on which the belief (that flowers are only stunted branches) is founded, viz., mchstrous flowers and fruits, to be taken as the rule of vegetable developement, or should those monstrosities be considered as exceptions ? These few particulars involve all the greater questions rela- tive to the organisable property of the sap; its descent in the autumn; the formation of the new zone of wood on exogenous stems ; whence derived, and how and when perfected: all which phenomena are still obscure, and of which we have much to learn, and perhaps a good deal to unlearn. As it is understood Mr. Lindley courts rational criticism, we trust he will excuse the foregoing remarks, as they are, he may be assured, respectfully offered. — J. M. August 20. Lindley, John, ¥.R.S. &c. &c., and Professor of Botany in the University of London: An Introduction to Botany. 8vo, 557 pages, with six copperplates and numerous en- gravings on wood. London, 1832. 18s. This is a richly stored, clearly written book, and one for which every votary of botany, who can afford it, may safely, and without hesitation, spend his money. We wish, for the sake of the science, it were sold at half the price charged for it. The want of such an introduction has been sensibly felt by all who addict themselves to this science, for the space of the last ten years. The reason for this is obvious: within that period it is, or not much beyond, that those views of botany which make its essence consist in acquainting us with the natural affinities of plants have become popular in Britain; and those views having no object in common with the botany previously taught, which had for its object mainly that of en- abling the student to distinguish one plant from another, it follows, that with this complete change in the state of botany, its scope and its objects, it must have been accompanied by a corresponding change in the condition of its elementary de- tails. ‘This has been the result. New laws, rules, and terms, speculations, and hypotheses, have arisen in abundance, and the science has in many cases been much elucidated by the application of these: witness the systematic distribution of the cruciferous or tetradynamous plants in De Candolle’s Systema. With botany in this changed and improved state, the incon- venience which has resulted has been, that, read what modern book on the science one would, a host of new combinations, of mutilations of old ones, and of new terms in which these were enounced, were presenting themselves on every side; and this, with the non-existence, all the while, of a com- prehensive, clear, explanatory introduction, to which re- Vor. VIL —No. 41. ZZ ry 4 706 Hooker and Greville’s Ferns. ference could be made for the solution of every puzzle and. every difficulty ; for the introductions previously extant, though good in their day, or in application to the system to which they were formed, were usually found provokinely defective when consulted in relation to the prevailing system of natural affinities. This state of deficiency it is the office of the pre- sent Introduction to remedy, by including within itself all the modern views of the science, and of the considerations attached to it, and explanations and illustrations of all the terms em- ployed in it, as devised and published up to the period of putting the work to press. It will be found a most satisfac- tory volume; and in closing our notice of it, we have only to express our hope, that, at the expiration of every second year at most, a new edition of it, including all improvements which the progress of the science may have evolved in the interim, will be regularly supplied to the public. Hooker, W. J., L. L. D., and Grevilic, R. K., L.L.D.: Icones Filicum ad eas potissimum Species illustrandas destinatze quee hactenus vel in herbariis delituerunt prorsus incognitee, vel saltem nondum per Icones botanicis innotuerunt: or, Tigures and Descriptions of Ferns, principally of such as have been altogether unnoticed by Botanists, or have as yet not been correctly figured. In two vols. folio. Lon- don, 1831. With the plates coloured, 24 guineas; with the plates uncoloured, 15/. These two magnificent but very expensive volumes supply a valuable help to our farther acquaintance with those very interesting plants, the Ferns. They present figures and de- scriptions of 240 exotic species; and in the descriptions of these, allusions, in contradistinction, are made to additional species. Some new genera are founded, and new systematic affinities indicated. ‘lhe species figured and described in the work are from India, St. Vincent’s, Jamaica, Quito, the Mau- ritius, and New Holland ; so that, besides the interest which the species from each country may intrinsically possess, they associate an extrinsic interest, in serving as a sample of all the fern productions of the countries from which they have. been severally derived. In closing this work, the authors present their thanks to various gentlemen resident in the above countries for their. valuable assistance to it, by the contribution of native speci-. mens, and by descriptive notices appertaining to them. To, Dr. Wallich, in particular, the authors declare their very. great obligation, ‘ for continued supplies of the Ferns of the vast continent of India; and these,” say they, ‘* have now, Blume’s Flora Jave. 207 arrived to so great an extent, — and not alone from Dr. Wal- lich, but also from Dr. Wight of Madras,—that the authors contemplate, under the sanction and patronage of the Hon. the Board of Directors of the East India Company, to form for them a new and separate publication, under the title of ilices Asiatice Rariores [Rarer Asiatic Ferns], to appear on the same size and plan as the Plante Asiatice Rariores. Blume, Carolus Ludovicus, M. D., lately Investigator of Na- ture in the Dutch Colonies of the East Indies, Super- intendent of Medicine, and Director of a Botanic Garden there, &e. &c., aided by Joannes Baptista Fisher, M.D.: Flora Javee, necnon Insularum adjacentium. With litho- graphic and copperplate engravings, coloured. _ Brus- sels, 1828, folio. Frank, Brussels; Treuttel and Wurtz, London. Dr. Blume’s Lora of Java and the Islands adjacent is a work of great interest, from the following circumstances : — 1. Dr. Blume is an able systematic botanist; and manifests, by his elaborate elucidation of details, that superficiality is not one of his characteristics. 2. The vegetable furniture of Java has hitherto been but limitedly known in Europe: hence the subjects of the Flora Jave are likely to be interesting from their novelty. 3. The work is executed, both in its plates and letterpress, so admirably, that it is an eligible object for introduction into the best of libraries. The work is intended to be completed in 100 folio numbers, aud of these 35 are already published; but, owing to the late prevalence of political strife in Belgium, the work has been for some time suspended, but its publication will be resumed as soon as the state of Belgic politics will permit. In the interim, the parties interested in the work are endeavouring to make it better known in London, and doubtless other places ; and to this endeavour we must say we wish all success; for a work of such merit deserves to be extensively known and pos- sessed. It is true, that, of the 35 numbers published, we have not seen many, and those we have seen are possibly the more attractive ones, as the subjects they contain are mainly trees and shrubs: but even if so, the general tone and character of the work furnish a sufficient assurance that the less attractive portions of it will be at least botanically interesting. From the first number we shall present a short notice of two plants of extraordinary interest: Rafflésza Patma Blume, and a near relative of it, Brugmansza Zippelzi Blume. Rafflesza Patma Blume is nearly .related to Rafflésza Arndldzz of Brown. Those who have access to the Linneean Society’s Transactions ZG 2 708 Blume’s Flora Jave. (vol. xili. p.227.), or to our Magazine of Natural History (vol. i. p. 68.), are already acquainted with the R. Arnéldzz; but for the sake of those who may not be, we shall, from the latter work, give again the cut (fg. 149.), and a short notice ONO CoA Re Ste FOS oe SPOS MHA SANE SS RWa\i eS SOY 143 | “Hf Ay i | ZB ify Zi NE LES MS if S SN LTP Ne eS S) SA\ y of it. It is a parasite, not an epiphyte (see p. 12. note) on the root and stems of the genus Vitis and allied genera. ‘The flower weighs 15 lbs., and constitutes the whole of the plant, which has neither leaves, roots, nor stem. ‘The flowers are dicecious, and the breadth of a full-grown one exceeds 3 ft. ; the segments of the perianth (a), which are five, are roundish, of a brick red colour, covered with protuberances of a yellow- ish white, measure 12 in. from the base to the apex; and it is about a foot from the insertion of one petal to that of the opposite one; the nectarium (4) would hold 12 pints; the pistils (d), abortive in the male flower sent to England, were very large. Its first appearance is that of a round knob (fig. 150.) proceeding from a crack or hollow in the stem or root. This knob, when cut through, exhibits the infant flower enveloped in numerous bracteal sheaths, which succes- sively open and wither away as the flower enlarges, until at the time of full expansion (fie. 149. a) very few are remaining, which have somewhat the appearance of a broken calyx (ce). Three months elapse from the first ap- pearance of the bud to the full expansion of the flower. The female flower differs little in appearance from the male, far- ther than in being without the anthers (e) of the latter. The Blume’s Flora Java. 709 flower, fully blown, was discovered in a jungle, growing close to the ground under the bushes, with a swarm of flies hovering over the nectary, and apparently laying their eggs in_ its substance. Before noticing Rafflésca Patma Blume, we should remark that Dr. Blume, in 1825, founded an order to receive this and allied plants, and devised for it the name Rhizantheze ; from rhize, avoot, and anthos, a flower ; in expression of the remark- able habit in their vegetation of their being flowers parasitically sustained on the roots of other plants. As M. Brongniart had, in 1824, a year previous, applied the term Cytinea to plants of the same kind, Dr. Blume’s name is superseded by the priority of M. Brongniart’s. Dr. Blume, however, in his work before us, published in 1828, retains his own name of Rhizaéntheze, and under it developes, in considerable detail, its characters, before he proceeds to the contradistinction, de- scription, and illustration of the plants, which, in this work, he has occasion to consider under it. These are, Rafflesia Patma Blume, R. Arnéldzz Brown, and Brugmansia Zippelz Blume. R. Arnéldzz, above spoken of, Dr. Blume only notices for the purpose of distinguishing his R. Patma from it ; and we now give some of his remarks on the latter, and on his Brug- mansza Zippelzz. To Rafflesza Patma Dr. Blume applies the epithet Patma in expression of its place of growth. ‘This species has the perianth smooth within, while R. Arndldzz ( fig. 149.) has this part rough with filiform excrescences; R. Patma has the pro- cesses of the column straightish, R. Arndldzz bears the processes in the disk of the column more crowdedly and con- fusedly, and of unequal leneth, and here and there somewhat divided and twisted; R. Arnéldzz is perhaps still farther distinguished from R. Patma, in the former having dicecious flowers. R. Paétma Blume grows in shady places of the little island of Nusa Kambangan, near to the south of Java, upon the roots of Cissus scaridsa Blume, which plant delights exceed- ingly in moist soil, and where the diameter of the expanded perianth of the Rafflésca Patma not rarely exceeds 2 Dutch feet (five of which are equal to four English), but in less favourable situations its diameter is scarcely 14 to 16 Dutch inches. Accurate examination convinced Dr. Blume that the Rafllésza PAtma had no connection whatever with the woody layers of the root of the Cissus scariosa, but that its connection was only with the substance of the bark of the root. It is quite remarkable that the growing bark, having its continuity inter- ZZ3 710 DBlume’s Flora Java. rupted by the entrance of the collet of the Rafflésza into its substance, swells out into a cup-shaped process round about the flower-buds of the Rafflés¢a, and this cuplike process varies in diameter, according to the length of time which may take place between the first rising of the flower-bud and the ultimate fall of the flower itself and its remains. To illustrate this extraordinary plant, a series of drawings, occupying four folio pages, are presented: they show its progressive stages of developement and its structure, and are admirably exe- cuted. Brugmansza Zippélzz Blume. Dy. Blume ventures to apply this generic term to this plant, because he considers that Persoon’s genus Brugmansza is not sufficiently distinct from Dativa L. The specific name Zippéléz compliments. the person who first found this plant growing on the roots of Cissus tuberculata Blume, in moist woods on the south-west declivity of the mountain Salax, and at the height of from 1200 to 1500 feet above the level of the sea. ‘The mountain is situate in the province of Buitenzorg, on the west of Java, and is sacred both to Vulcan and to Flora. The generic character of Blume’s genus Brugmansia are these: —Perianth of one leaf, with the crown of the throat interrupted, limb 5-parted; segments or partitions twice or thrice cleft: the sestivation valvate induplicate; the central column subglobose, hollowed above, and naked; anthers mon- adelphous, 2-celled, opening by two pores. Dr. Blume states that Brugmansza Zippélzz possesses remarkably styp- tical powers. In the other odd numbers which have come under our observation, in the crder Cupuliferee several most interesting species of oak are figured and described: the foliage of some of these is magnificent, and the cups and acorns are very striking. In the order Juglandeze there are some species of an interesting genus named Engelhardtza by Leschenault, the nuts of which are furnished with wings somewhat in the man- ner of our maples, and are disposed in catkins. In Anondcee a beautiful species of Unona, called dasymaschala, to express its having thick shoots, is figured, and has numerous ruby blossoms. Three species of Artabotrys, viz., odoratissima, hamata, and suaveolens; and several species of the genus Polyalthia, are also presented in this order. In Magnolzdcee, six species of Michelia are figured, four of Taulama, and two plants to which the names Mangleétza glauca (a shrub) and Aromadéndron élegans (a tree) are ascribed. The order Dipterocaérpeze is elucidated by numerous details, derived from full descriptions of six species of the genus Dipterocarpus ; Wallich’s Plante Rariores Asiatice. 11 namely, D. trinérvis, retdsus, Spandghez, littoralis, gracilis, and Hasséltzz. The essential generic characters of Diptero- carpus are, calyx in the mouth irregularly 5-cleft, with two opposite segments longer than the rest, and strap-shaped; corolla 5-petaled, and folded in a convolute manner previously to expansion; the stamens numerous; the anthers elongately linear, and tipped with a bristly point; fruit, a wceody nut, not opening, by abortion one-celled, and involucred by the enlarging calyx: the seed in most species is large. It will give some idea of the magnificence of these trees, to re- mark that Dipterocarpus trinérvis attains the height of from 150 to 200 feet, and that its elliptical leaves are from seven inches to more than a foot in length, and from four to seven inches broad. ‘The remarkable feature in this family, of each fruit having two wings, as expressed in the word Dipterocdrpus, Is very interesting. ‘These wings are formed by the progressive lengthening of the longer segments of the calyx, and in some species of the genus attain the length of three inches: in D. trinérvis they are 3-nerved. In the plan of the Mora Jave, it deserves admiration, that the subjects are arranged in their natural orders, and all the subjects belonging to any one natural order are published con- secutively ; while in most instances the characters of a natural order are given precedently to the characters, and descrip- tions, and figures, of the plants included in that order. Wallich, Nathaniel, M.D. F.R.S. &c.: Plants Rariores Asiaticee; or, Figures, coloured, and Descriptions of ‘Two - hundred and Ninety-five selected unpublished Kast Indian Plants. In 3 vols. imperial folio. London, 1832. 36/. In our Vol. VII. p. 206—212. we have given short notices of a hundred plants figured in the first volume of this very splendid work. Since that time two additional volumes have been published, and with these the work is now completed in three volumes. ‘Iwo hundred and ninety-five plates of plants are presented, and an engraved map of India, which is deemed equivalent to five plates of plants. On this map are indicated the routes of the following travellers who have severally ex- plored various parts of India, to the end of increasing our acquaintance with the plants of that vast continent: —Mr. Fin layson, Dr. Hamilton, General Hardwicke, M. Leschenault de Latour, Mr. Moorcroft, Mr. Royle, Colonel Sykes, Dr. Wallich, and Dr. Wight. India abounds profusely in species of plants; and many of them are extraordinarily beautiful, as is testified by not a few of the figures of those selected, for illustration in the work of which we are speaking; but we “Lt 4 712 Hooker’s Botanical Miscellany. really underrate this work, and do it an injustice, if we leave ourselves understood that it only acquaints us with those 295 plants, of which figures have been given: it contains, besides, some lengthy contributions to systematic botany of great value. This has happened in this wise. Dr. Wallich, on visiting Europe, brought with him, in addition to original drawings, stores of specimens; and these, the latter at least, have been distributed to the botanists of Europe, according to the natural families with which they were severally known to be best acquainted. ‘The result has been a greater degree of accuracy, and a richer effusion of information, under each species, than could have arisen, had the authorship of the work been vested in any one person, however eminent. Besides the valuable descriptions proper to the species illustrated, there are the following still more useful communications. A mono- graph, in the second volume, on the Latrinse of the Kast Indies, to which there is a supplement in the third volume, both by Professor Nees von Esenbeck. ‘This occupies 22 pages, and developes the most complete account of the order any where extant; and gives a digest, and the characters, of the genera and species which range under it. Professor Nees also elaborates, in the same manner, in the third volume, the ordinal, generic, and specific characteristics of those lovely plants the Indian Acanthaceze; and this valuable elucidation of this family occupies 48 pages. Professor Meisner, also, in the third volume, presents a synopsis of those plants of the natural order Polygoneze, which belong to British India, so far as specimens of them exist in the vast herbarium which has been collected under the direction of the East India Company, and by them recently presented to the Linnzean Society of London; an act of munificence which does honour to the Company. In vol. iii. p. 27., Professor Martius, too, elabo- rates the characters of the Indian Eriocatilese and Xyridez. Flooker, W. J., LL.D.: The Botanical Miscellany; contain- ing Figures and Descriptions of such Plants as recommend themselves by their Novelty, Rarity, or History, or by the Uses to which they are applied. 8vo. London, 1832. In quarterly parts, 10s. 6d. each. Part viii. of this work was published on the Ist of August jast, and contains the following papers : — 1. * Contributions towards a Flora of South America, and the islands of the Pacific. By Dr. Hooker and G. A. W. Arnott, Esq. A.M. F.R.S. &c.” This paper occupies 83 pages, and is to be continued ina future number. It enumerates 384 species of plants, specimens of which have been received from Hooker's Botanical Miscellany. 713 Messrs. Cuming, Bridges, Matthews, Tweedie, Macrae, Cruickshanks, Gillies, Lay, Collie, Douglas, Scouler, and others, and are preserved in herbariums in this country. We say ‘“‘ enumerates,” because some of them, being previously known species, are only indicated; but the majority of them are, and among them some new genera, now described for the first time: consequently, this paper is a very important contribution to systematic botany, both in Britain and all the world over. A genus, nearly allied to Draba, is dedicated to Mr. Mathews, by the name of Mathéwsza. Mr. Bridges, too, of whose diligence in collecting the paper supplies gratifying evidence, receives like honour in an interesting genus of shrubs, in the order Rutaceee, named Bridgésza after him. Three new species of lupine are described; and, amongst them, one (Lupinus albéscens) is termed a ‘fine species.” Ten new species of O’xalis are described; and four new species of Viola of peculiar aspect (of three of which figures are given), which “constitute a natural little group of Viola, remarkable for the crowded and stellate disposition of their leaves, which are strongly fringed with woolly hairs.” We must not, however, pretend to notify the genera to which additions are made. It pleases us to see that the following natives of Britain are also inhabitants of South America: — faninculus sceleratus, Fumaria capreolata, Carddmine hirsuta, Sisymbrium officinale, Lepidium ruderale, Capsélla barsa pastoris, Sagina prociimbens, Arenaria rubra, média Dee. ; Cerastium vulgatum, latifolium, arvénse; Geranium pyre- naicum, columbinum, disséctum, Robertzdnwn; Erodium cicutarium, moschatum; O’xalis corniculata; Medicago sa- tiva, minima, and denticulata. ‘The plants figured in the illustration of this paper are Mathéwsza folidsa; Viola con- gésta, volcénica, and Astérias; Crinodéndron Pdtagna, a Chilean tree, thought to belong to Eleeocarpeze; Tricomaria Usillo, a shrub from Mendoza, a genus allied to Bannistéria ; Bridgés¢a spicata, Genista élegans; Adésmia élegans, tri- foliata; Gourlicéa decérticans, a genus in Legumindse, named by Dr. Gillies in memory ef the late Mr. Robert Gourlie, who botanised successfully at Mendoza, and lately died there. The second paper is an abstract of the proceedings of the natural history society of Mauritius in 1830 and 1831. The third paper is a continuation of an Enumeration of Ferns, by Drs. Greville and Hooker. The fourth paper is on the Genus Sarothra and its affinities, accompanied by a figure and description of S. Drumméndzz. The fifth paper is ** On Cardamine rhomboidea and rotundifolia of North America,” of each of which a figure is given, ‘The sixth paper is a 714 Smith and Sowerby’s English Botany. ‘¢ Notice to the members of the Unio Itineraria, with a list of the plants collected in 1831.” The seventh and last paper, which is not completed, is one of much and popular interest. It is entitled ** A Sketch of the Province of Emerina, in the Island of Madagascar, and of the Huwa, its inhabitants ; written during a year’s residence by the botanists, Charles Theodore Hilsenberg of Erfurth, and Wenceslaus Bojer of Prague in Bohemia: with an Appendix on the Tanghina poison Zanghinia veneniflua.” Of this plant, a double plate, coloured, is given, and which seems identical with Cérbera Tanghin of the Botanical Magazine, although this identity is not declared. Besides the figures we have indicated, there is one of Polypodium melanopum, and one of Cryptogramma retrofracta, to which we see no description. Nees von Esenbeck : Genera et Species Asterearum. This is reported to be a work which will greatly avail those engaged in the study of the species of the genus 4’ster, and of the allied genera: see Professor Lindley’s opinion of it in a quotation presented, p. 723. Smith, Sir J. E., M.D.&c., and Sowerby, James, F.L.S. &c.: English Botany; or, coloured Figures of British Plants, with their essential Characters, Synonymes, and Places of Growth. The Second Edition, arranged according to the Linnzan Method, with the Descriptions. shortened, and occasional Remarks added. London. In 8yo numbers, 1s. each ; monthly, or oftener if desired. We are glad to see a cheap edition of this excellent and far- famed work supplied to the public on terms that will render it obtainable by many whose circumstances would never war- rant their purchasing the first edition. That edition, which sells for 55/., extends to 36 volumes, and includes figures and descriptions of 2592 native plants, 1087 of which, ex- clusive of 55 ferns, are cryptogamic, or, as far as our naked eyes are concerned, flowerless plants. From this second edition all such are to be omitted; and even the figures of flowering plants, “ which represent such nearly allied species as may be readily distinguished by the descriptions from those figured.” By this omission of some species, “it is supposed that about 1200 plates will contain the flower- ing plants, which may be bound in six volumes; and, as most of them are ready, no delay is likely tooccur.” As, however, some purchasers may prefer to possess a figure of every plant described in this edition, Mr. Sowerby proposes to supply British lowering Plants. 715 impressions, and coloured, of all the omitted plates, at 3d. each. The plates employed will be those used for the first edition, except in some few instances of errer, where new ones will be substituted. In this second edition the plates are published in the order of the Linneean classes and orders, with the names of the plants engraved on the plates: the impressions are taken off on smaller paper, and have their colouring less highly finished, than those in the first edition. The descriptions are published collectedly, and, like the figures, in the order of the system of Linnzeus. They are condensed from those in the first edition, and, the editor trusts, without omitting any thing material; while, from the increased accuracy which the progress of botanical research has effected, they will be occasionally improved. In the names of the plants some few indispensable changes will be admitted. To each genus is added the name of the natural order to which it belongs, and a few general remarks on the habits and properties of the species of the genus. ‘These are useful additions. Of the six numbers published we shall remark on the first four, in explanation of the manner of publication, that Nos. 1, 2, and 3. contain five plates each, without any descriptive text; but No. 4. contains three plates and a sheet of letterpress, in which the 18 species figured in the four numbers are described, and nine species besides, the figures of which are omitted. In this manner, through the work, the letterpress is to be sup- plied when the descriptions have become numerous enough 1o fill a sheet. Mr. Sowerby, in his address, hopes “ that the many intelligent persons whose means are limited, may be in- duced, by the low price at which this edition of Lnglzsh Botany is published, to avail themselves of the opportunity of acquainting themselves with the vegetable beauties disclosed around them ;” a hope in which we heartily concur. Anon.: British Flowering Plants, drawn from Nature, and engraved under the direction of William Baxter, A. L.S. F.H.S., &c., Curator of the Oxford Botanic Garden. In 8vo numbers, each containing four plates and deserip- tive letterpress. With the plates coloured, 1s.; unco- loured, 6d. : Another very cheap work, devoted to the illustration of British flowering plants. It is “ to be confined to a single specimen of each genus, which will be sufficient for all general purposes.” In the first number the species figured are Hri- tillaria meléagris, Tudipa sylvéstris, Geum rivale, and Viola 716 Mackay’s Catalogue of Irish Plants. canina: in the second number, Polygonum Bistorta, Paris quadrifolia, Adonis autumnalis, and O'phrys apifera. The plants are well drawn and engraved, the first six of the eight, in particular; but the colouring, in our copy, of the 4th, 7th, and 8th subjects, admits improvement. Each spe- cies has a separate leaf allotted to the description of it, in which the Linnean class and order and natural order to which it belongs is stated, and the generic and specific names, cha- racters, and etymons given, as well as synonymes, habitats, a detailed description, and the uses, if any, to which the species is applied. Dissections of the parts of the flower which characterise the genus are given on the plate, and explained in the text. Mackay, James Townsend, M.R.I. A. A.L.S. &e. &c.: A Cata- logue of the Phzenogamous Plants and Ferns found in Ire- land, with Descriptions of some of the rarer Sorts. Dublin, 1825. 4to, 98 pages. We notice this book, retrospective as is its date, for the sake of connecting it with Mr. Mackay’s interesting communication on some newer discoveries, in our Vol. VII. p.230.; where, if we mistake not, this catalogue is alluded to as the list published “ in 1804,” which is doubtless a misprint for 1824. The present is a useful catalogue, for its indication of habitats, and for the original remarks sprinkled through it: but its size is inconvenient ; and as Mr. Mackay probably contemplates a second edition, we hope he will, in consideration of the pockets of botanical travellers, make choice of duodecimo pages, and type as small as nonpareil. Botanical explorers are most fre- quently youthful, and can therefore read small print readily enough. Mantell, Joshua: A Chart of Floriculture, comprising the Propagation of Stove, Green-house, and hardy herbaceous Plants; hardy Trees and Shrubs; with the Soils best adapted to their Growth. A folio sheet, 30 in. by 21 in. 1832. Published by J. Baxter, Lewes, Sussex. Reprinted from the second edition of Baxter’s Library of Agricultural and Horticultural Knowledge. Information on the best modes of propagating plants, and the soils fittest for their healthful growth, is, as the above title indicates, the express object of this chart. This object is very well achieved by digesting into separate alphabets the genera of stove plants, of green-house plants, of hardy trees and shrubs, of hardy herbaceous plants, and of annual and biennial plants; and by appending to the end of each generic name Jetters and figures’ which represent certain detailed Mantell’s Chart of Floriculture. DL7 meanings explained at the bottom of the chart. The genera, _as thus classed, and with information thus appended to them, are stated to be nearly 4000 in number, and they form 18 longitudinal columns; and, says the author, “ as the species require the same treatment as the genus to which they belong, the chart may be said to embrace the cultivation of between twenty and thirty thousand of the most interesting productions of the vegetable kingdom.” We cannot better explain the mode of using the chart than by quoting the author’s own “¢ directions ;” but, before we do so, we ought to observe that he enumerates 21 modes of propagating plants, or of treating the cuttings, &c., while in the course of being converted into plants, and these modes are severally numbered. He enume- rates, also, of soils and composts, 14 kinds, and distinguishes each kind by a capital letter of the alphabet. ‘Then, “should,” says he, ‘the culture of any species of plant be required, it will only be necessary to turn to the genus to which it belongs. For illustration: let Abroma, under stove plants, be taken as an example. Opposite to this we find. 1. 6. E. By referring to the modes of propagation, we learn that the plant may be raised, 1. by seed; 6. by cuttings of the young wood planted in sand under a bell-glass, and placed in a shady part of the stove or green-house, and that the cuttings are liable to damp off, unless the accumulated moisture be occasionally wiped from the glass. Under soils, it will be seen that E. indicates equal parts of loam and peat, as best adapted to the growth of the genus. Annuals and biennials being uniformly propagated by seeds, it has been deemed only necessary to point out their habits and places of habitation: these are de- signed by the following abbreviations :— A. annual, B. bien- nial, H. hardy, T. tender, G. green-house, S. stove.” - ‘We have bestowed thus many words on this chart, because it is certainly the most comprehensive synopsis of directions for propagating plants, and accommodating them with the soils they require, which has ever been published. It is an im- portant improvement of the 11th and 12th columns in our Hortus Britannicus : in those columns of that work, the mode of propagation and soil are generally stated; in the chart before us, where these two particulars have been almost the only objects of the author’s attention, they are stated with more definiteness, precision, and detail. ‘The author adopts our accentuation of the generic names, and of indicating whether they be of classic, commemorative, or aboriginal origin. We need not remark to the young gardener, for whose sake we have noticed this chart at such length, how practicable it is to apply the same principle of conspectiveness and of abbreviation, by arbitrary short-hand characters, to other objects. 718 Doyle’s Hints on Emigration. Anon.: The Cape of Good Hope Literary Gazette. Cape Town. 4to. In periodical Numbers. 20s. per annum. A miscellany designed to supply intellectual gratification to the readers of Southern Africa. No. 13., published June 1. . 1831; and No. 14., published June 29. 1831, have been sent us. Each contains 12 quarto pages of matter, disposed in triple columns; and a portion of this space is occupied by ori- ginal contributions on various topics, general and local, enter- taining and instructive. Then follow ‘ critical notices” of new publications, and “ extracts literary, scientific, and mis- cellaneous.” ‘The work appears to be well conducted. Mr. Bowie, our valued correspondent, in No. 13. contributes ‘‘q list of some of the most conspicuous indigenous plants blossoming in the month of June, at Wynberg and its vicinity,” in which the names of nearly 100 species appear; and Mr. Bowie, in his introductory remarks, states that these, ‘ toge- ther with 200 species more, may be observed in flower in a walk of two or three hours,” and that all these are “ only a part of the wznter embellishments of the vegetable kingdom in this part of the world.” No. 14. contains a similar list for July, in which the species, although almost as numerous, are all distinct from those in the June list. Both lists are intro- duced by a few sensible remarks; and in the July one there is this note under Hesperantha, where H. cinnamomea, falcata, and pilosa are the species mentioned; but the note is appended to the generic name, and is probably meant to relate to every species of the genus, rather than to any particular one: — Hes- perantha, evening flower; Dutch, Avondbloem; which emits a most delicious fragrance, and, in the neighbourhood of Cape Town, is the violet, the cowslip, and, the primrose, the har- binger of spring in Southern Africa. Hencea bunch of these beautiful flowers is carried in triumph into the town. That the inhabitants are not destitute of the love of flowers, is quite evident from the numerous groups betanising en our mountains, awaiting the appearance of, and eagerly plucking this pretty evening flower.” In the lists are the names of many species of plants existing in our collections. In the numbers before us are notices of the South African Literary Society, South African Institution, South African Library, and the Graham’s Town Library; and there seems much interest prevailing on literary subjects in the colony. Doyle, Martin, Author of Hints to small Holders, &c.: Hints on Emigration to Upper Canada; especially addressed to the Middle and Lower Classes of Great Britain ‘and, Opinions on Vegetable Diet. 719 Ireland. 12mo, 2d edition. Dublin, 1832, Curry jun, and Co. The author decidedly prefers Canada to the United States. ‘¢ In no other country in the world,” he says, ‘‘ can such com- forts and advantages be obtained in exchange for labour and industry; but, at the same time, I do not recommend those who enjoy happiness and comfort at home, even with a life of toil, to emigrate on mere speculation.” As to the part of Canada that Mr. Doyle prefers, he says: — “ So impressed am I with the advantages which are offered to the settler in Upper Canada, that, were I not engaged in public and private duties, I would join the first merry-hearted set of Irish emigrants in planting ourselves and our potatoes in one of the richest townships in the Huron territory.” Anon.: Opinions of several eminent Medical Men with re- gard to Vegetable Diet in reference to Cholera. Pamph. 8vo, 32 pages. London, 1832. 3d. The apprehensions of cholera which were entertained in London in July and August last, and an impression which then prevailed, that eating of fruit and vegetables would predispose the body to receive this disease, went well-nigh to ruin the mar- ket-gardeners, inasmuch as these causes seriously diminished the consumption and sale of their productions. Hereupon a committee of the Market-Gardeners’ Society addressed a letter to those physicians whose letters are published in the pam- phlet, soliciting their several opinions on the connection which might obtain between vegetable diet and the cholera disease. Thirty letters from as many medical men, twenty-nine of them M. D.s, received in reply to this letter, occupy the pamphlet, headed by a preface, from which we learn, without reading the letters, ‘* that the impression of fear in the public mind with regard to vegetable diet may be entirely removed, and con- fidence again restored; as the general use of vegetables, as hitherto, is not only not injurious, but highly beneficial and valuable.” Various Writers: ‘Transactions of the Albany Institute from 1828 to 1830. 1 vol. 8vo, 240 pages, with plates. Albany, 1830, Webster and Skinners. / This book contains some useful papers. They, however, appertain more to the natural history of the state than to the art of gardening as practised in it. Art. 3., by Dr. Beck, . “On the Geographical Botany of the United States,” contains some interesting notices of plants. ‘The book supplies gratify- ing evidence that the inhabitants of Albany are arduous in researches for the acquisition of knowledge. 720 German and Swedish Books. GERMANY AND SWEDEN. Antoine, F., Court Gardener in the Royal and Imperia Paradise Garden at Vienna: Abbildung von 51 Pfirsich Sorten nach der Natur. Figures from Nature of 51 Sorts of Peaches. Vienna, 1816—1821. This is an abridgment, which costs at Vienna about 30s., of a work in folio by the same author which costs more than three times the money. ‘The figures are remarkably well executed ; and the descriptions, as we are informed by M. Rauch, who lent us the work, and by Mr. Thompson, the author of the Horticultural Society’s Fruit Catalogue, judici- ous and correct. We have no very high idea of the utility of figuring such fruits as the peach, a] em strawberry, goose- ber TY, Xe., which are of short duration; constantly undergoing alteration by the introduction of new sorts raised from seed ; and, in consequence, the fashionable sorts of which are con- tinually changing. However, they are certainly better worth figuring than hybrid pelargoniums and florist’s flowers; and therefore let the work pass. Wenstrom, John Peter: Handbok 1 Blomsterkulturen for Fruntimmer. 8vo, 293 pages. Stockholm, 1831. This work treats of 450 species of blooming plants, none, or but few, of them rare in English collections ; but all of them showily flowered, and well suited to the decoration of flower-gardens. They are assorted into separate alphabetic lists, under the classes of annuals, perennials, bulbous and tuberous rooted plants, flowering shrubs, and plants for the orangery or green-house. Under each species is given a short history, usually of but a few lines, but sometimes extend- ing to half a page, or even a whole one. This history imparts the same kind of information as is supplied in our Hortus Britan- nicus, but ina fuller manner : it is terminated by an explanation of the generic name; and the history or description is pre- ceded by the French and Swedish names of the plant, which follow the botanical sytematic one. ‘The work is closed with an index of the botanical names, a second of the French ones, and a third of the Swedish ones. It is a convenient and useful manual, for those who are familiar with the language in which it is written, and who are desirous to learn, in a ready manner, what are the fittest plants to procure for effecting any particular instance of decoration they may desire. 721 MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE. Art. 1. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of new Plants, and of old Plants of Interest, supplementary to the latest Editions of the “ Encyclopedia of Plants,” and of the “ Hortus Britannicus.” Curtis’s Botanical Magazine ; each monthly Number containing eight plates, 3s. 6d. coloured, 3s. plain. Edited by Dr. Hooker, King’s Professor of Botany in the University of Glasgow. Edwards's Botanical Register; each monthly Number containing eight plates ; 4s. coloured, 3s. plain. Edited by John Lindley, F.R.S., Pro- fessor of Botany in the London University. Sweet's British Flower-Garden; each monthly Number containing four plates; 3s. coloured, 2s. 3d. plain. Edited by David Don, Esq., Libra- rian to the Linnean Society. Loddiges’s Botanical Cabinet ; each monthly Number containing ten plates ; 5s. coloured, 2s. 6d. partly coloured. Edited by Messrs. Loddiges. The reader will find the few abbreviations used in the following extracts explained in p. 12. DicoTyLEDoNous PoLYPETALOUS PLANTs. XXII. Berberideze. 890. EPIME‘DIUM. diphyllum B. C. two-lvd xy Acu i my W Japan 1830? D Iit.l Bot. cab. 1858 This is a curious little plant, very little known. We obtained it from our worthy friend, M. Schuurman, of the Leyden Garden, into which it has lately been introduced from its native country. It appears to be quite hardy, and may be increased by dividing the roots. (Bot. Cab., Oct.) LXXVII. Leguminose. 1963. DAVIE’SZA. 10612@ virgata Cun. twiggy a |pr 2?jn Taw. BlueM.N.H.1827? C_ sl.p Bot. mag. 3196 Another of the numerous interesting discoveries of Mr. Allan Cunning- ham. It inhabits the more elevated dry, barren, parts of the Blue Moun- tains of New Holland, where it flowers in October: in the green-house at Kew, its blossoming season is June. Mr. Cunningham observes that it appears to be allied to D. racemulosa of De Candolle, and to D. umbellata of Smith; but that it is really distinct from both. A twiggy shrub, with alternate narrow leaves and numerous axillary somewhat corymbose ra- cemes, each consisting of from four to seven flowers. (Bot. Mag., Nov.) LXXXVIII. Euphorbiacer. § Euphorbiée. 1460. EUPHO’/RBIA. _ eruentata Grah. red-spotied-lud YiA|cu 2? au.s Ap St. Louis 1831? S$ s.1 Ed.n.ph. j. no.26 This species is described in detail by Dr. Graham in the Edinburgh New Philosophical Journal for Oct. 1832, No. 26. p. 361. “ Seeds of this plant were sent, along with specimens, to this country from St. Louis, North America, by Mr. Drummond. When is not stated, neither is the height of the stem. ‘“ The plants flowered in the green-house of the Edinburgh Botanic Garden in August and September.” Notwithstanding this, we Vou. VIII.— No. 41. 3A 722 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, have presumed the species to be hardy. The petioled, lanceolate, un- equally serrated, hairy leaves, which are 2 in. long and 10 lines broad, are “irregularly sprinkled above with dull red spots,” and this is the property expressed in the epithet cruentata. CXXI. Pittosporee. 679. PITTO’/SPORUM. angustifolium B.C. narrow-leaved % ~Jcu 1? jn Y N.S.W. 1830. C Lp Bot. cab. 1859 “ This has lately been introduced from New South Wales. It is of a delicate habit, having a few slender straggling branches, and it flowers in June.” (Bot. Cab., Oct.) CXXXII. Malesherbiacee. “3472, MALESHE/RBLA. 29001l@ ccronata D.Don faux-crowned © or 23 jns B- Chile 1832. S lt Sw.fl.gar.2.s.167 Of this interesting genus, six species, native to Peru and Chile, are known to botanists; and two of them are already in cultivation im Britain. M. humilis is registered in our Additional Supplement, p. 593. M. coronata, the second species, which, as well as M. humilis, and some other species, is annual, has been raised by Mr. Thomas Brown, of the Highgate Nursery, from seeds collected in Chile by Mr. Hugh Cuming; from whose rich herbarium Mr. Don had previously described M. coronata and three other species. M. coronata has an upright, branched, pubescent stem, and rather long, linear, narrow, toothed, pubescent leaves. From the axils of the diminished leaves on the branches-are produced the blossoms, and not sparingly. These have a short green tube, on the top of which are seated five green spreading calycine segments, and, alternate with them, five blue petals; so that the ten segments together form a slightly starry blossom, green and blue in colour, orbicular in outline, and equalling a penny-piece in size. The plant flowered with Mr. Brown in September last : it requires a light sandy soil, and is increased by seeds. (Sweet’s Mlower-Garden, Nov.) The genus Maleshérbia, in natural affinity, is between the genera Passi- flora and Tdarnera; and is in Monadeélphia Pentandria of the system of Linneus. CXLVI. Galacinee. Franca sonchifolia is figured in Loddiges’s Botanical Cabinet for November, t. 1864: it has rosy petals, with a feathered purple stripe down the centre of each. With Messrs. Loddiges “it grows freely, with a stem 2 or 3 ft. high, flowering in July. It is a coarse-looking plant in its herbage, but the fiowers are numerous and beautiful. They are likely to be followed by seeds, by which it will be readily multiplied. The soil should be rich loam.” ‘This species is already in our Additional Supplement, but less perfectly than we now give it : — . #28870 sonchifodlia Feu. Sow-thistle-lvd y A or 23 jlau Ro.P Chile 1830. S rl Bot. cab. 1864 DicoryLEeDoNous MonoretTatous PLaAnts. CLXXVII. Stylidiee. " * 9581, STYLI’D1UM. 228940 hirstitum #.Br. hairy-scaped ¢ ,Ajor 3 my.jn Ro Kg.G.’sSd.1830? S s.p Bot. mag. 3194 This species has newly come into cultivation; and its purplish rose- coloured corollas, yellow in the throat, are larger than those of any species in our gardens. Mr. M‘Nab raised the plant figured from a seed taken off a native specimen, sent to him by the late Mr. Fraser. It blossomed in the green-house of the Edinburgh Botanic Garden through May and the early part of June. (Bot. Mag., Nov.) Stylidium janceum is minutely described by Dr. Graham, in the Hdin- burgh New Philosophical Journal for Oct. 1832, p. 364., whence we are enabled to fill in the blanks which appear under this species in the Add. Supp., No. 29277. supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. +29277 janceum R. Br. rushy ¥ iAleu 2 s Ro Kg.G.’sSd.1830. S p.l “ This plant is perhaps less ornamental than any of the species hitherto introduced into cultivation, but still interesting.’ (Graham.) CLXXXVI. Composite § Astéree. A’ster spectabilis, quite an orna- mental, and happily not rare, species of this extensive autumn-flowering genus, is figured in the Bot. Reg. for September, t. 1527, and described in the number for October; where Professor Lindley presents the following Important Information respecting the Genus A’ster. “ It is well known that the genus A’ster has long been the disgrace of botanists; that there is no instance, in the whole range of natural history, of such imperfect descrip- tions, unscientific arrangements, false species, confused synonymes, and multiplied names, as this genus presents. We have for many years been collecting materials, in the hope of being able to reduce it to better order ; and lately we have begun to explain our ideas upon the subject, in several articles that have appeared in the Botanical Register. ** But we are fortunately relieved from the prosecution of our under- taking, by the appearance of a work from the pen of the learned Dr. Nees von Ksenbeck, ‘which, whether we regard the elegance of its style, the precision of its arrangement, the philosophical spirit that pervades every page, or the laborious accuracy with which the whole has been digested, is certainly the most remarkable instance of scientific research applied to systematic botany that we are acquainted with. Our labour in future will be reduced to an illustration of this extraordinary production, or to a criticism of such points in it as may appear to admit of improvement.” *2337a EURY’BIA Cass. (Eurubiés, wide-spreading, as are its creeping offsets.) {corymbosa Cass. corymbed Y A or 2 aus W N.Amer.1765. D co Bot. reg. 1532 A’ster corymbdsus dit. Hort. Kew. Willd. Sp. Pl., and probably of Hort. Brit., No. 23166. A. cor- difdlius Ma., not of Nut. A very common plant in gardens, where each corymb usually consists of numerous heads of flowers; although, in shady woods from Canada to Virginia, where the plant is native, each stem does not usually bear more than from two to ten flower heads. (Bot. Reg., Oct.) CXCV. Asclepiadee. *774a PHYSIA’/NTHUS Mart. (Phusa, a bladder, anthos, a flower ; corolla inflated at its base.) 5. 2. Asclepiddez Sp. 1. — albens Mart. whitish-2vd. $§ {jor 20 au W Bu. Ayr. 1830. S lp. Mart-br. 54. t.32 _ “ Seeds of this fine plant were received by Mr. Neill, from Mr. Tweedie, Buenos Ayres, in 1830; and, climbing along the roof of the stove in his garden, flowered freely in August last. I possess from Mr. Tweedie an excellent specimen, in no respect different from the cultivated plant.” (Dr. Graham, in Edinburgh New Philosophical Journal.) This is an interesting stove climber, of rather rapid growth, and is in the collection of Messrs. Young, Epsom, as well as in that of Mr. Neill, at Canonmills. The leaves are petioled, opposite, cblong, and deep green and pruinose above. The corolla is salver-shaped; pale rose- coloured when in bud, afterwards white; smooth, somewhat fleshy, and faintly perfumed: its tube is half an inch long, the limb I+ in. across: the flowers are borne in subdichotomous cymes. Caralluma fimbriata is figured in the Botanical Cabinet of Messrs. Lod- diges for November, t. 1863. We mention this, that every cultivator of stapelias may know where to apply for a plant of this highly curious species. CCXI. Scrophulérine. § Two anther-bearing stamens. 65. CALCEOLA‘RIA, [2.s.162 578c Martineaie Swt. Martineau’s y _AJ or 1 ap.au Yspot.Fotherg-corym. 1831. D lt.r.m Sw.fi.g. “This elegant [and ornamental] freely flowering plant is the offspring of C. Fothergilli fertilised by C. corymbosa, and was raised by Mr. Blair, gardener to John Martineau, Esq., at Stamford Hill. It has been named 3A 2 794 ~ Floricultural and Botanical Notices, in compliment to Miss Martineau, a young lady of great botanical taste. Drawn at Mr. Low’s nursery, Upper Clapton.” (/lower-Garden, Oct.) This hybrid has already been noticed in this Magazine, Vol. VII. p. 510., and Vol. VIII. p. 48. 28701a -Atkinséa@na D.Don Atkins’s y Ajor 12 jn.o Y.R Eng.hyb. 1830. D p Sw.fi.gar.2.s.168 A short notice of this hybrid is presented, p. 473: it was raised by Mr. James Atkins, Nurseryman, Northampton, between C. corymbosa and C. arachnoidea. It emulates C. Young. It is perennial, multipli- cable by parting only, and was quite unhurt out of doors by last year’s winter. “Mr, Atkins finds that peat suits it best, and states that the original plant, which is placed in a border of that soil, is 5 ft. in circum- ference ; and sent forth, in the course of 1832, upwards of 150 stems, each bearing from 30 to 70 flowers. (Sweet’s Flower-Gar den, Nov.) CCXXI. Labidte. Scutellaria macrantha Fis. is figured i in Loddiges’s Bot. Cab. for November, t. 1865., and seems a very desirable species for the hardy flower-border. Its shoots are terminated by a spike of several rather large bright blue blossoms. MonocoTyLeponous Puants. CCXXXIV. Bromeliaceze. 951a H/CHMEA Lindl. (Aichmé, a point; from the rigid points on the calyx.) 6. 1. sp. [3186 Merténsii Schult. Mertens’s &fWijor 12 mrapG.R Demerara 1830 ? Sk p.r.w Bot. mag. A beautiful bromeliaceous plant, sent (when is not stated), with many other rarities, to the Liverpool Botanic Garden, from Demerara, where it is an epiphyte upon trees, by C. S. Parker, Esq. “ Its noble yellow green spikes, nearly 1 ft. long, tipped with richly coloured (bright and deep rose red), erect, protruded portions of the petals, and the large red bracteas at the base, render this plant a most desirable inmate of the stove.” (Bot. Mag., Oct.) CCXXXVIIL. Amaryliidez. *933a CORBULA‘RIA Sal. (Corbula, a little basket ; shape of nectary.) 6. 1. 10 sp. 7583, serotina Haw. late-flowering rf A or 4 mrap Y Portugal 1629, O ‘sl Sw.fi. gar.2.s. 164 This is the hoop-petticoat narcissus (Narcissus Bulbocodium) of the Bo- tanical Mag., t. 88. but not the NV. Bulbocédium of Linnzeus’s Herbarium. Tt is, as is well known, a very interesting and ornamental species. “ The corbularias, being chiefly natives of the south of Europe, require a very slight protection in severe winters: they thrive best in a light loamy soil and a sheltered situation ; but also succeed well in pots, if treated as bulbous frame plants. C. serétina, if occasionally transplanted when the bulbs are quiescent, succeeds also in the open ground.” (Flower-Garden, Oct.) I have witnessed its thriving thoroughly, and blooming every year satisfactorily, at the foot of a tall eastern-aspected wall. — J. D. 979. ALSTRGEME‘RI4A. oculata B. C. eyed-filud. _£.AJor 5 jn Ro.eye. P Valparaiso 1831. O p.l.dung Bot.cab. 1851 “ This appears to be a species hitherto unknown : it is one of the climb- ing kinds; and its flowers, like those of all the genus, are beautiful. We have reason to believe that it will endure the climate of this country, as many of the other kinds do, planted in a border close to the front wall of astove.” (Bot. Cab., Oct.) Alstroemeéria psittacina is figured in the Botanical Register for November, t.1540.; where Professor Lindley, after doubting its being a native of Mexico, as some state, and suggesting that it is rather a native of Brazil or Chile, presents the following admirable remarks on the physiology of leaves : — “ Than these alstrcemerias no plants evince im a more striking manner the aptitude of one vegetable organ to adapt itself to the functions of another. The breathing-pores of leaves, or stomata (as botanists name them), are usually placed upon their under’ side, which has also much more prominent veins than the upper, and is covered with hairs exclusively, if supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 725. hairs are found upon only one of the two surfaces. In Alstrceméria, the leaves, owing to some unknown cause, are always resupinate; that is to say, in consequence of a twist of their petiole, that side which is born uppermost is turned undermost. Now, itis very curious that the surface, which, under other circumstances, would have no breathing-pores, no hairs, and not elevated veins, acquires all these characters in consequence of having to perform functions that are foreign to it ; while the other surface, in like manner, loses them.” CXXXIX. Iridee. - 145. SISYRI/NCHIUM. 28017a maculatum Hook. spot-petaled ye AJjor 1 my Y.spot Chile 1831. D lp. Bot. mag. 3197 This is an interesting species, and seems prolific in flowers. The spathes have a broad white membranaceous margin. The flowers are starry, almost as large as a shilling, ofa full deep yellow; but each of the six segments has a deep blood-red spot near its base, and the three inner segments have also a large horseshoe-shaped spot or cloud of the same hue at the tip, occupy- ing the segment’s whole width. It is nearly allied to S. graminifolium, but is sufficiently distinct. (Bot. Mag., Nov.) 1353a lutéscens B.C. yellowish-jid. g _Aj or 23 my. jn Ysh Chile 1830. S It. Bot.cab. 1870 Messrs. Loddiges “ raised this from seeds sent by Mr. Cuming. It grew to the height of nearly 3 ft., and flowered in the green-house in April and May. It should be potted in light loam; and is likely to be nearly or quite hardy with us. It increases itself by offsets from the roots. (Bot. Cab., Nov.) The figure much reminds us of S. striatum. CCXL. Orchidee § Vandee. 9593, CYMBI DIUM. (4. Bolbidium. Rh{zoma creeping, bearing pseudo-bulbs from 1 to 3-leaved. marginatum Lindl. red-edg.-sepal. fe [7A\jor 2 n Y Rio Jan. 1829. D p.r.w Bot. reg. 1530 s‘ > Maxillaria gracilis Bot. Cab., 1837. [and Gard. Mag., vol. viii. p. 603. 606.] is either this ina sickly state, or a nearly allied species.”? (Lindley in Bot. reg. 1530.) An air plant, which does not often flower ; the sepals are 1 in. long, and yellow, margined with red. Young plants may be obtained by dividing the creeping stem, when the pseudo-bulbs will establish for themselves an inde- pendent life by means of their little white and green roots. (Bot. Reg., Oct.) 9594. CIRRH A Lindi. (Cirrhus, a tendril; form of rostellum.) 22642. Loddigéts# Lindl. Loddiges’s @ (A) or { jl.au_Y.spot Brazil 1822. D p.r.w Bot. reg. 1538 Cymbidium depéndens Lodd. Bot. Cab. 936. Cirrhz‘a depéndens Loudon’s Hort. Brit. p. 370., Sweet’s Hort. Brit. p. 483. The genus Cirrhe’a differs from all the genera in the tribe Vandee by its stigma occupying the apex, and not the face, of the column; while its anther is situated at the back. In this last respect it agrees with Notylia, which is, however, otherwise distinct. C. Loddigési# grows tolerably well in vegetable mould, if placed where the air is humid and the drainage com- plete; and, in such situations, flowers in August. Professor Lindley also refers to this genus the Gongora viridi-purpurea of Hooker; and describes a third species, specimens and a picture of which exist in Dr. Hooker’s herbarium, and names it C. fasco-litea. As, however, this is probably not yet in the country, we must at present only tabulate the second. ©2642a viridi-purpurea Lindi. green and pur. & [AJ or 1 jn.auG.P Brazil 1827. Dp.r.w Bot. reg. Gongodra viridi-purptrea Hooker in Bot. mag. 2978. 2540. ONCI’DIUM (Ogkos, a tumour ; the labellum of every species bears at its base warts, tumours, or other excrescences. Lindley.) cornigerum Lind?. horn-bearing « (7\Jor 3 au _ Y.spot Brazil 1829. D p.r.w Bot. reg. 1542 Probably this species exists in no British collection but that of the Hor- ticultural Society, and that of the Rev. and Hon. W. Herbert. It is, “perhaps, the smallest of all the species of Oncidium properly so called. . The truncated callosity of the crest, with a sort of two-horned screen at its back, and the two lateral erect lobes of the lip at its side, are, when viewed in profile, not very unlike a bull’s head in miniature.” (Bot, Reg., Noy.) 3A 3 726 Floricultural and Botanical Notices, crispum B.C. curled-petaled & Jor 3 jn Taw.y.spot Brazil1831. D p.r.w Bot. cab. 1854 This has been lately introduced; and, in June, 1832, flowered with us for the first time. The flowers are elegant in form, and of an unusual colour: like the other species, it will on occasion increase by separating its pseudo-bulb-bearing root-shoots. (Bot. Cab., Oct.) The flowers in the figure are 2 in. in diameter. *3412. STANHO*PEA Hook. : 28530a ebirnea Lindl. ivory-lipped & (ZXjor 3 jl W.P Rio Jan. 1828? D p.r.w Bot. reg. 1529 A noble epiphyte, figured from Knypersley Hall, near Congleton, Che- shire. It was imported from Rio Janeiro by Messrs. Loddiges. “ The flowers were slightly fragrant, and of short duration; the lip, when fresh, appeared to be formed of the most pure and highly polished ivory. “ Pro- fessor Lindley, in this article, cancels his generic title Ceratochilus, because, in applying it to the plants mentioned below, he did not advert to the existence of the same name in Dr. Blume’s Odservations upon Java Plants, Blume’s genus appears to be distinct ; and it has, therefore, become neces- sary to adopt Dr. Hooker’s name, Stanhdpea. Professor Lindley, on this point, thus honourably expresses himself :—“ We the more readily do this now, because, on a former occasion, in objecting to the reception of the name Stanhopea, we suffered ourselves to be betrayed into unkind ex- pressions, which should not have been applied to any one, and least of all to so amiable and excellent a man as our long-tried friend the Professor of Botany at Glasgow.” (Bot. Reg., Oct.) This revision of the nomenclature appertaining to this family of plants renders necessary the obliteration, from Hortus Pritannicus, p. 489. and 584., of the generic name Ceratochilus, and the substitution of the follow- ing digest of the species under their new generic title. *3411. STANHO*PEA Hook. (Earl Stanhope, President of the Medico-Botanical Society.) § 28531. insignis Hook notable €& Wor 1 jlo P Trinidad 1826. Dp.r.w Bot. mag. 2948 Ceratochilus insignis Lind/ey. Hort. Brit. p. 489. No. 28531. §28530. grandifldra Lind/. large-flowered € (Jor 1 jlo P Trinidad 1824 Dp.r.w Bot. cab. 1414 Ceratochilus grandiflorus B.C. Hort. Brit. p. 489. No. 28530. 28530a ebirnea Linal. ivory-lipped € (jor + jl W.P Rio Jan. 1828? Dp.r.w Bot. reg, 15293 28731. oculata Lindi. eyed &Wior 1 jn Y.spot Xalapa 1829. Dp.r.w Bot. cab. 1764 Ceratochilus oculAtus Bot. Cab. 1764. Hort. Brit. No, 28731. S. ebirnea “ differs decidedly from S. oculata and insignis; but is, indeed, very closely allied to S. grandiflora, from which it thus differs : — Its flowers are not more than two thirds of the size of those of S. grandi- flora; the horns of the base of the lip proceed from the middle of the margin of the hypochilium, and not from the front of the margin ; and the scape in S. grandiflora is shorter than the sepals: so that the flowers are erect, while in S. ebarnea the scape is twice as long, and pendulous ; and it is a native of Rio Janeiro, while 8. grandiflora is a native of Trinidad.” NANO*‘DES. (Nanddés, pygmy ; size of plant.) 20. 1. Sp. 2. discolor Lindl. green and purple (X\)cu % au P Rio Jan. 1827. Dp.r.w Bot. reg. 1541 ‘‘ Curious as are very many of the species of epiphytal Orchidez, we do not remember one that is much more remarkable than this, which possesses a habit quite its own. Its flowers are so like the leaves from among which they spring, and by which they are embosomed, that you would scarcely discover the plant to be in flower, even if every branch was blossoming.” The plant has been long lost in the Horticultural Society’s Garden; and, it appears, is a kind not very easily kept. (Bot. Reg., Nov.) Orchidea: \ Epidéndree. 9554. EPIDE/NDRUM. : 29740a viréscens B.C, greenish-flwd. €(A)cu = jl Gsh Dominica 1829. D p.r.w Bot. cab. 1867 “ Tt approaches E. fuscatum; but we consider it sufficiently distinct. The soil should be chiefly moss, with a little sawdust.” It is not a splen- did species, but one which interests on close examination. ( Bot. Cab., Nov.) ' supplementary to Enc. of Plants and Hort. Brit. 727 CCXLI. Scitaminee. 8 ALPI/NIA 2. magnifica Boj. magnificent y [A)spl.10 au R Mauritiusl830. D r.1 Bot. mag. 3192 This is a strikingly ornamental plant, and a remarkable member of the order Scitaminez. Its leaf-stems are from 10 ft. to 12 ft. high, leafy. Scape or flowering-stem, 5 ft. to 6 ft. high, very stout, leafless, sheathed ; the uppermost sheath is dilated, and forms a large, leafy, green bractea ; within which is produced the splendid head, or dense spike, of deep pur- plish red blossoms, 1 in. in length. This spike is rendered the more striking from its numerous bracteas of a fine deep rose-red colour, all mar- gined with a white line, the outer ones exceedingly large and spreading, often reflexed, 3 in. or 4in. in length; diminishing progressively in size and length to the centre of the spike. This collection of flowers, with the richly coloured bractez, soon withers, and is succeeded by a large head of fruit formed of many capsules, each as large as a chestnut ; nearly globose, downy, terminated by the withered floral coverings, and intermixed with the equally withered and ragged bracteas. This superb plant was, a little while ago, only known by dried speci- mens, and the figure published by Roscoe in his Scitamineous Plants ; but roots were, through the medium of Mr. Telford of the Mauritius, intro- duced by the late Mr. Barclay, and sent to Lord Milton’s collection at Wentworth House ; where His Lordship’s excellent botanical gardener, Mr. Cooper, so treated them as to induce a plant to blossom in the stove in August, 1832. Professor Bojer has suggested the propriety of constituting from this plant a genus distinct from Alp{fnia; and it is probable that this will eventually be done. (Bot. Mag., Noy.) = CCXLVII. Asphodelee. *1064a TRICHOPE’/TALUM Lindi, (Thrizx, frichos, hair ; melalons a petal: inner series of perianth gracile Lindl. slender yy A! cu Bev. ; Wau Gite 1828. D r.m Bot. reg. 1535 To judge of the habits of this plant from the branch and leaf figured, Anthéricum ramosum will give a good idea of it. It has fleshy fascicled roots ; the stem is sparingly branched (subramose) ; and from 1 ft. to 3 ft. in height, according to the sterility or richness of the soil. The leaves are glaucous, and linear sword-shaped; the flowers are curious in their fringed petals; the hairs forming this fringe are inserted in a double row, are thick, rough, and composed of short joints. The plant, under good culti- vation, flowers and seeds abundantly from June to August. Under this plant, Professor Lindley presents the followmg remarks on the Culture of most half-hardy, bulbous, or fleshy-rooted Plants with annual Stems (which we do not present as supplying practical directions to our brother-gardeners, who could doubtiess themselves give valuable advice on such points, but because the philosophical theory by which he accounts for practical results are really worth their attention) : —“ Trichopétalum gracilis, like many (perhaps most) half-hardy, bulbous or fleshy-rooted plants with annual stems, succeeds better if committed to the open ground m a frame, or pit which is well drained, has a southern aspect, and from which the frost is entirely excluded. In such a situation, exposed to the open air all summer long, it will form its leaves in perfection, and will not lose them until they have completely fulfilled the purpose for which they are created; namely, the elaborating a supply of food, upon which, in the succeeding year, the new stem will be fed, and by aid of which the flowers will be developed. Plants, under such treatment, if unhealthy when first submitted to it, will probably not indicate any great renovation the first year; but, in the second, the good effects cannot fail to be distinctly per- ceptible. This is the only way in which Cape roots can generally be cul- tivated successfully ; for few of them are capable of living, or at least of 3A + aa 728 Retrospective Criticism. flourishing, so far north as London, if treated as hardy plants: a fact which, we fear, many who have unfortunately suffered themselves to be persuaded to trust their Cape bulbs to the open borders have discovered to their cost.” The “ Anthéricum ? plumosum” of the Bot. Mag., t.3084., and of our Additional Supplement, No. 28616., is referable to this new genus Tricho- pétalum ; and Mr. Lindley judges it to be distinct from gracile, “ from its narrower leaves, smaller seeds, and erect flowers; with spreading, not reflexed, petals: characters which exist equally in the wild and cultivated specimens. It may be called Trichopétalum stellatum.’ Pursuant to this warranty, we shall give again its tabular details under its new name. stellatum Lindl. starry-flwd. xy Alcu 1 ap W Chile 1829. Dco Bot. mag. 3084 Anthéricum ? plumdsum Bot. mag. 3084., and Hort. Brit. 580., and possibly of Ruiz and Pavon. CCLI. Likacee. 1008. FU’NKTA. 8218a Sievoldtidana Dens. Sieboldt’s Yy A or 1 jn Li Japan 1830. D r.l Bot. cab. 1869 Hemerocallis Sieboldtiana B. C. _ Introduced, by the botanist whose name it bears, to the Leyden garden, whence Messrs. Loddiges obtained it in 1830. It grows freely, flowers in June, and is probably hardy. (Bot. Cab., Nov.) ArT. II. Retrospective Criticism. Proressor Lindley’s Publications.—Sir, As the author and compiler of several of the most popular works on gardening in our language, it _may be presumed that your opinions and advice tend, in a greater degree than, perhaps, those of any other man, to influence the conduct and habits of the younger members of that profession, the interests of which you profess to advocate. As an occasional reader of the Gardener's Magazine, I am happy to bear testimony to the candid and impartial manner in which this respon- sible task is generally performed ; yet I have seen and regretted some few instances wherein the frailty natural to humanity has manifested itself, and private friendship or interest, perhaps pique, has superseded justice. These observations are induced by the high encomiums bestowed, in the Gardener’s Magazine, on Mr. Lindley’s recent publications, the Principles of Botany, and the Outline of the First Principles of Horticulture ; encomiums which, I cannot but think, are in a great measure unjustifiable. Undoubt- edly, very great credit is due to Mr. Lindley, for having condensed within the limits of his two small books more really useful information than is to be sifted from among the baseless theories, oft retailed experiments, and conflicting opinions, that cumber the pages of many of the ample and costly volumes given to the world for its enlightenment, by men with half a score learned abbreviations tacked to their names. But the unqua- lified praise so lavishly showered both upon the author and books, naturally inclines those who purchase the works to expect something very nearly approaching to perfection. Such, at least, was the case with me; and my disappointment was proportionately great, when, on comparing the two works, I found that propositions laid down in the Principles of Botany as essential principles, are, in the later publication, directly contradicted. That Mr. Lindley, for his credit’s sake, may have an opportunity of correct- ing such palpable blunders, I have transcribed such of them as have occurred to me; and, as an act of justice to those among your readers who, like myself, have procured the books on the recommendation contained in this Magazine, you will take the earliest opportunity of making public my remarks through the same channel. Retrospective Criticism. 729 In the Principles of Botany, paragraph 25., it is said that spiral vessels ‘are not found in any part which is formed in a downward direction, and are, consequently, absent from the wood, bark, and root.” In the Principles of Horticulture, par. 15., we are told that “ spiral vessels are not found in the wood or bark, and rarely in the roots of plants.” The former of these paragraphs lays down, as a positive rule, that spiral vessels do not exist in the parts of plants which are formed in a downward direction, and, as a consequence, that they are absent from the wood, bark, and root. In the latter, it is said that spiral vessels are rarely found in the roots. If they are ever found in these organs, does it not follow that the principle which we are taught by the first paragraph is false ? Principles of Botany, par. 25., “ The function of the spiral vessels is unknown. 33. Their functions (those of the ducts) have not been accurately deter- mined. It is probable that they serve for the passage of air, 86. The medullary sheath consists of spiral vessels and ducts. 89. It carries upwards the fluid absorbed either immediately from the earth, or through the intervention of the alburnum, and conducts it into the leaves.” There appears to be a little “ mystification” here. If the function of the spiral vessels is unknown, and those of the ducts uncertain, how can it be said that the spiral vessels and ducts, of which, as we are told, the medullary sheath is composed, carry upwards fluid to the leaves ? Again, to make the matter clearer, it is stated in the HORE! of Horticulture, par. 21., that “ Spiral vessels convey oxygenated Principles of Botany, par. 200., “ The food of plants consists of water holding various substances in solution. The roots have the power of separating these substances, and selecting such only as are con- genial to the nature of the species.” Principles of Horticulture, par. 37., “ These organs (the spongioles) have no power of selecting their food, but will absorb whatever the earth or air may contain which is sufficiently fluid to pass through. the sides of their tissue.” Will the learned professor reconcile these two principles? Other discre- pancies might be pointed out in these two works, especially in the passages relating to the excreting theory, against which it would be easy to adduce evidence that would shake it to the very foundation. But enough has been said to show the possibility of even such men as the learned professor overreachinz themselves, and also to justify my remark, that your unqua- lified praises were, to say the least, premature. I am, Sir, yours, &c. —A Journeyman Gardener. Nov. 1. 1832. We thank our correspondent for his strictures, and invite him to continue them whenever he sees occasion. — Cond. Shalder’s Fountain Pump. — As we strongly recommended this pump (Vol. VII. p. 218.), we consider it right to lay before our readers the essence of a paper, which we have received from our correspondent Mr. Mallet of Dublin, on the subject. It appears that the person who has pur- chased the patent right of this pump was endeavouring to sell that right for Ireland to Mr. Mallet, who was disposed to purchase it, but who, being rather surprised at the seller coming down very greatly in price, thought of examining the records, and found, on consulting them, that there was no patent for Shalder’s pump, for Ireland, at all. Having detected this attempt at imposition, he next thought of enquiring whether the invention was a new one; and he found it described in Belidor’s Architecture Hy- dralique, tom. ii. liv. iii, chap. ili. p.120.; and something very similar’ in 730 Retrospective Criticism. Gregory’s Mechanics, vol. ii.; and in Nicholson’s Operative Mechanic. We have sent Mr. Mallet’s letter to the editor of the Mechanics’ Magazine, in which it will be found, vol. xviii. p. 70. Mr. Mallet remarks that this is an instance of what has become common in London of late years, “ the practice of furbishing up an old invention, and taking out a patent for it, either through ignorance, or a worse intention.” — Cond. Trafficking in Gardeners’ Situations. (p. 499.) — From what has come to my own knowledge within the last twelve months, I can fully add my testimony to the tr ruth of the remarks of An Enemy to Bribery. I do not think it necessary here to enter into a full disclosure of the transac- tions above mentioned, but merely to say, that, however surprising the coincidence may seem, the same letters of the alphabet will answer very well for the name and abede of the individual to whom I allude, as those that designate the worthy trafficker noticed in your former pages, viz., a Mr. B. of Y. I remain, Sir, yours, &c.—An Advocate for every Thing being done above board. August 28. 1832. Lraficking in Gardeners’ Situations. (p.499.)— Sir, I beg to inform An Enemy to Bribery (p. 499.) that I have enquired, and cannot hear that any thing of the kind he alludes to has been transacted in this part of the country. I can hear of gardeners having been recommended by a nurseryman, and they, of course, feel themselves under an obligation to send to the nurseryman for what seeds and plants they may want; but this is nothing but what is right, as it is discharging an obligation, and of no injury whatever to their employers. An Enemy to Bribery believes the practice of trafficking, which he describes, to be detrimental to gardens and gardeners. This cannot be the case, as the absurd practice of Mr. B. of Y. is far from being a general one; and a good honest gardener is not so great a blockhead as to give twenty pounds for a situation; and an inexperienced gardener would very soon lose the situation he had paid so dearly for. The statement of An Enemy to Bribery is thought by many to be little less than enmity or jealousy on his part, or else the names of all parties would have been published in full, in an open and Englishman- like style, a system which it would be well if many of the correspondents of the Magazine adopted. I have purchased the Magazine for the last three years, and have frequently read experiments, proved by whom we know not, except by two and sometimes three capital letters of the alphabet. Iam, Sir, yours, &c.—William Whidden, Gardener to Colonel Chester. Chicherly, near Newport, Bucks, Sept. 10. 1832. Mr. Hays Method of heating by Steam. (p. 330.) — Sir, I have perused with very great pleasure Mr. Hay’s plan and description of heating hot-houses by steam through perforated pipes; a plan which, I have no doubt whatever, when the nature and principles of steam, as applied to the heating of hot- houses, pits, &c., become better known, and the mania for hot water has a little subsided, will, for horticultural purposes of every description where artificial heat is required, be found superior to any other hitherto invented. The country being just now pretty full of hot water, I expect some will be inclined to consider such an assertion rather speculative; which, to a certain extent, | must admit, though I believe it has been found to answer perfectly in several places where it has been tried, and the time which it has been in use here induces me to speak at least from short experience. About two years ago, I had two vineries built, to supply early grapes, with the borders laid hollow, and perforated lead pipes introduced underneath, with the view of maintaining a temperature in the outer border, during the forcing season, equal to that of the surface of the earth during ‘the months of July and August. The vines being young, and not having yet been forced, Iam only able to state that the temperature of the border can be regulated, to,the greatest nicety. Early this spring I had a cucumber pit Retrospective Criticism. 731 built, and heated in the manner alluded to, which I find to answer most completely ; and I have since obtained permission to build as many more as may be required for melons, cucumbers, asparagus, sea kale, &c., and to heat the whole in the same way. A melon ground heated on this principle will, I think, be found to pos- sess many advantages over the one in general use. The most obvious of these will be, the order and neatness which can at all times be maintained in this department. Instead of wading up to the knees in litter, to get near the pits, which is often unavoidably the case in the early forcing of cucumbers and melons with fermenting dung, there may be clean flag- stones or gravel to walk upon. I have lately had a pine-stove heated on the same principle, but have not yet tried it a sufficient time to enable me to offer any remarks, beyond merely stating that 1 can at pleasure raise or lower the temperature of the bark bed with the greatest ease; an advan- tage, by the by, which will be only apparent to the pine-grower. Having extended my remarks thus far, I beg leave to advert to one very important improvement which may be contemplated from this mode of heating ; namely, the facilities which it affords for getting rid entirely of the hideous black chimney-tops that disfigure so many gardens with their dense vo- lumes of smoke, which they are every now and then sending forth during the whole of the winter and spring months ; a nuisance, in garden scenery, which nothing but necessity and habit could have made at all tolerable. Only one chimney-top would be required in the largest forcing-establish- ment ; and, presuming that Witty’s patent furnace answered the purpose for which it is so highly recommended, even in this solitary chimney there would seldom be any smoke. I may, at some future time, be able to add a few more remarks on this subject, should you think them worth your acceptance. — Robert Marneck. Bretton Hall Gardens, July 14, 1832. A Method of transplanting large Trees is mentioned by Edw. Jesse, Esq., deputy surveyor of His Majesty’s parks, in his amusing Gleanings of Natural History, p. 309—313., who states that it has been attended with “ great success,” and, he believes, “ will be found infinitely cheaper, and more generally to be depended on, than the plan of Sir H. Steuart. .. . Of some hundreds of trees which were taken up and replanted in Bushy Park, in March, 1831, not one had died [up to what period Mr. Jesse does not state, but his book was published in March, 1832], though many of them were of a large size, and some of them laurels from 10 to 12 ft. in height, showing their blossoms at the time they were transplanted, which was not at all checked by the operation.” Mr. Jesse’s plan is, to “ exca- vate the earth at some distance from the tree, leaving all the principal fibres, and the earth adhering to them, in a compact ball, undermining it as much as possible, and taking care not to shake or injure the ball, by twisting the stem of the tree, or using it as a lever to loosen the tap roots,” These deeds performed, and a hole prepared to receive the tree, to effect its removal the following are the apparatus and process : — “ Two pieces of iron must have been previously formed, of the breadth and thickness of a common cart-wheel tire, 3 in. or 4 in. wide, and rather more than half an inch in thickness, and about 6 ft. long, bent as in fig. 151. c, which will reduce it to 3 ft. across. This size will do for trees requiring from two to four men to lift them ; but a size larger, and stronger in proportion, will be wanted for trees that will require from eight to ten men, or more, to carry them. Put these irons under the ball of earth, as near the centre as pos- sible, leaving a space between them of about 2 ft., and for larger trees a little more. Take two strong poles, about 8 ft. or 10 ft. long, and 3in. or 4in. in diameter, and smaller at each end, and apply them as shown in the sketch (a), to each side, passing them through the bends of the irons, so as to form a complete handbarrow. The tree may then be readily lifted 732 Retrospective Criticism. 151 b WES SSS Cross levers may be used for larger trees which require more men (6), so that as many men can conveniently apply their strength to it as are wanted, without being in each other’s way. The whole is fixed and unfixed without any loss of time, and requires no tying, nor is there any danger of its slipping off’ Our author recommends that, in digging out the trench around the tree, a larger ball than is really meant to be removed should be left, which can be reduced with a pick without injuring the roots, and that the tap and other roots inconvenient to get at may be severed under the ball of earth with a long chisel. The best way of forming the ball is to prepare it the year before removal, by digging round the tree, and cutting most of its principal roots. In planting, in either case, spread the projecting roots out carefully in different layers, as near as possible to their original position, as the hole is gradually filled up with mould. “ I do not find,” says the author, “ that trees thus planted require support, as the large ball of earth steadies them sufficiently.” He admits, however, that the trees he has removed are not so large as those described by Sir H. Steuart. ‘“ Had it, however, been necessary for me to haye planted larger trees, I have no doubt but that I should have succeeded equally well; as, by means of the cross levers, the strength of a proportionable number of men may be readily applied.” Mr. Jesse proceeds to give directions and remarks on preparing the ball of trees to be transplanted, and of adjusting their roots, as the hole into which they are transplanted “ is gradually filled up with mould.’ These are very well, but superfluous to gardening readers. : We have two objects in presenting the preceding abstract: one, to illustrate the following strictures on Mr. Jesse’s mode, by a practical man; the other, to afford those whom this subject interests an additional invention to those already presented to them in our Vol. V. p.422., and Vol. VIL. p.29, 30. and 655.; and Encyclopedia of Gardening, § 1468. In reference to the strictures, a correspondent, J. M., in a communica- tion dated “ London, May 16. 1832,” writes as follows. “* Having bought Mr. Jesse’s book, I sent the part of it which describes the author’s mode of transplanting large trees to a friend of mine, a gentleman who has been extensively engaged in this branch of arboriculture, thinking he might derive some advantageous hints, as I knew he had made some alterations in the machinery, which had received the approbation of Sir Henry Steuart himself; and as your work is designed for the benefit of science, I have thought that the remarks of my friend may be worth a place in it. They are these : —‘ I am much obliged to you for the extract on planting trees and shrubs. It is always gratifying to me to read men’s opinions upon Retrospective Criticism. 733 matters that I have some little knowledge of; but I must say that this gentleman is shouting before he is fairly out of the wood. From his own observations, I am certain he is no practical planter; but, should I be mistaken on that point, I must say that his ideas are very weak on the subject: but to fancy that he had superseded Sir H. Steuart in trans- planting, plainly tells me that he knows nothing about Sir Henry’s method of removing large trees. If he were to attempt to remove such trees as Su Henry Steuart has removed, or as we have removed here, upon the principle he proposes, he would tear this part of his book to pieces, and regret that he ever sent forth such erroneous opinions. If the king his master were to send him as many guards as would repel a regiment of French cuirassiers, should he place them three deep round such trees as ‘we have planted, their united strength could not lift one out of the pit, with his bars, hooks, and poles. All the credit that I can give him for his scheme is, to use it for the removal of a few small shrubs in a pleasure ground. This gentleman should have waited for the year 1835, before he had put his hand to paper on the subject: let him then give his candid opinion, and, I ‘believe, he will then refrain from boasting of his having superseded Sir Henry Steuart.” J. M. speaks of some alterations which his friend has made in the machinery recommended by Sir Henry Steuart. From the circumstance of J. M.’s friend being a practical man, the alterations may be valuable, and we shall be glad to be made acquainted with them. —J. D. Lathyrus grandiflorus. (p. 50.) — G. C.’s practice of artificially promot- ing the impregnation of the germens of this plant is ingenious and useful ; but, although I have this year applied the experiment repeatedly, and also cross-impregnated flowers of L. grandiflorus with the pollen of the white and blue flowered varieties of L. sativus, I have altogether obtained but three or four seeds. I had previously flowered several seedlings of ZL. grandiflorus, but these all strictly resembled the original species. Six years ago, I planted a plant of Z. grandiflorus near to a handsome spruce fir, around which the roots of the Lathyrus occupy the soil, and its shoots and blossoms are annually blended with the branches of the fir into a conical mass, surmounted by the spiry top of the fir, and producing a most pleasing effect ; the Lathyrus having climbed, by means of its tendrils, to the height of ten feet.— Wm. Godsall. Hereford, Sept. 29. 1832. Mr. Pearson on the Cultivation of the Fig, in reply to Mr. Smith. (p. 489.) — Sir, I observe (p. 489.) a most unjust attack on me in regard to the culture of the fig, by one who calls himself John Smith, journeyman gardener : and, truly, I think, he is a journeyman in more respects than one; nay, even an apprentice. Permit me, then, to say a few words in answer to this journeyman near Hexham, or some other place. He sets out by endeavouring to make me the author of the epithets “ sluggish and ignorant,’ as applied to gardeners: now, it is unfortunate for him that he should have left school before he was taught the use of inverted commas, and also that of reading with attention and understanding; for I deny being the author of these epithets in my treatise on figs; but, to set him right, he may read my paper over again, and then refer to the Spectacle de la Nature, translated from the original French, by Kelly, Ballamy, and Sparrow, vol. ii. p.145., and there he will meet with the word sluggish, which I quoted. His laundry phrase of washing without soap is only what he “ thinks ;” therefore it gives me no concern whatever. He says, my “ method of pruning is simple enough.” True, it is; and’so is every other branch of the science when once it is learned: but let me tell John Smith, that every “ cabbage gardener” has not yet learned to prune a fig tree; and, for any information which he has given, they may still remain in ignorance. He says, he would prune fig trees in April, after his 734 Retrospective Criticism. covering of fern or spruce was removed: and for what reason ? just that he might know the fruitful from the unfruitful branch. Certainly this is a good advice to a “ cabbage gardener,” who knows no better: but it so happens that I know the difference in the end of autumn; hence I am enabled to prune, and nail, and cover up at the same time, by which the young shoots, and the autumn-shown fruit are better protected than they would otherwise be in an unnailed state. Moreover, it is a most unnatural thing to begin to prune a fig tree at the very time when the sap is in active operation, and the newly projected fruit running the hazard of bemg rubbed off during the process of nailing, &c. John Smith farther says that I have taken no notice of the management of figs in hot-houses. This, it would appear, I had left for him to do, and a poor job he has made of it. He says that fig trees in hot-houses do not retain their fruit on last year’s wood, but that they all drop off, and only ripen their fruit on wood made the same year. This I deny; for on fig trees in hot-houses, under good management, there are always a first and a second crop. The second one is, in general, better than the first. That some of the first crop do drop off I do not deny, but not all, as J. Smith would have it. Where they are kept in houses, they should be planted in boxes, in a black lightish loam, pretty rich, and well supplied with water, under the temperature of 55° or 60°; and, in regard to pruning, they should be kept thin and regular. But to return: John Smith says that I contradict myself, by saying, first, that the fig is an aquatic, and then, that I lost a crop ina wet season. True, I said so much; but did I not give the reason for it ? J. Smith must be more careful in future in regard to his reading and writing; which is the best advice I can give him. But he goes farther, on mere supposition, and says that the trees at “ Ormiston Hall are 100 years old.” I admit that some of them are old; and the wall against which they are placed is not very young; yet they are not alto- gether destitute of a modern appearance; neither is the soil in which they grow so completely exhausted as he so gratuitously imagines. He is also presumptuous enough to think that I have no young fig trees under my management: but in this also he is mistaken; for I have young trees, not of “ten,” but of four years’ standing; and these are making wood like their aged neighbours; not that short, stunted, spurlike stuff that he speaks about, but shoots from 18 in. to 2 ft. long; ay, and fruit on them too, three of which weighed 13 oz. imperial this very day. Will John Smith believe that ? Now, Sir, I have done with J. Smith, and leave it to the candour of your readers to estimate the validity of his attack on my Treatise. present my thanks to J. D., for his interesting and pertinent account of the fig tree at Hardwicke House, near Bury St. Edmunds. Now, Sir, to have done with figs, I have just one word more to offer. In a private letter which I, long since, had the honour to receive from you, you remarked that you had seen, in the south of France and in Italy, fig trees growing in the clefts of rocks, which gave the idea of a dry situ- ation. Now, you will readily admit that rocks and mountains are more the receptacles of rain than the valleys below, and that they give out water to supply the springs even in the time of severe drought. In the open joints of rock, where tree roots are able to penetrate, is generally to be found a great deal of moisture; which leads me to think that trees so situated are better watered than those growing in a cultivated soil. I remain, Sir, yeurs, &c.— William Pearson. Ormiston Hall Gardens, Sept. 19. 1832. In the Scotsman’s report (Sept. 8.) of the exhibition of fruits of the Caledonian Horticultural Society, on Sept. 5., this remark occurs : — «“ From the garden at Balmuto were sent some large and ripe specimens of Black Ischia fig, with useful practical remarks on the management of the- Queries and Answers. 735 ™ fig tree as to soil and situation, by Mr. James M‘Culloch, gardener to Mrs. Boswell. Thanks were voted, with a copy of the last published part of the Society’s Memoirs.’ This remark is quoted to induce to Mr. Pearson and Mr. M‘Culloch the, possibly mutual, benefit and pleasure of each other’s correspondence on that interesting subject the culture of figs. What fruit so luscious as a perfectly ripened fig fresh off the tree! The notice of the thorough thriving of Ficus stipulata under a liberal supply of water, to which we alluded in p. 490., occurs in the present Number, p. 689. —J. D. Art. III. Queries and Answers. TECHNICAL Terms in Horticultural Chemisiry.— Sir, I wish some of your learned correspondents would insert in the Gardener’s Magazine a list of the chemical terms relating to horticulture, which are not to be found in an English dictionary, and with their proper accentuation. Such a con- tribution would be beneficial to those of your readers who, like myself, know little or nothing of the learned languages. I would also ask, What is the simplest test for detecting the oxide of iron in soils and subsoils? Tam of opinion that a clayey subsoil, containing oxide of iron, is one cause of the canker in fruit trees; and also the cause of what is here termed the cancer in the Scotch pine. I have never seen a blown-down cancered tree of this kind, but what had the greater part of its roots rotten, and which had partly penetrated into such a subsoil. Iam, Sir, yours, &c. — Wm. Taylor. Aberdeenshire, July, 1831. Uses of the Red Spider. (Vol. VII. p. 218.; Vol. VIII. p. 499.) —J. D. asks (p. 499.), ‘‘ Has not Mr. Godsall confounded two very distinct in- sects,’ under the name of the red spider? In my communication (Vol. VII. p. 218.) I stated, “ I have heard them” (the crimson velvet insects) “ stgmatised as red spiders: also, “ I know not whether this insect be- longs to the genus A’carus or not.” I think J. D. might have concluded from the above passages that I ridiculed the idea of confounding them, and, of course, endeavoured not to do so myself; although, in the sentence, “ since then I have frequently found the A’cari,” &c., it should, instead of “ A’cari,’ have been crimson insect, perhaps, which I almost think was the case in my letter. — Wm. Godsall. Hereford, Sept. 29. 1832. What is the Mode of dissolving Caoutchouc (Indian Rubber) in Pyrolignous Ether, and where is Pyrolignous Ether to be readily obtained? — Sir, Your correspondent, Mr. Mallet, has (at p. 554.) recommended a varnish of caoutchouc [Indian rubber] dissolved in pyrolignous ether as equally cheap and durable for horticultural purposes; but he has unhappily omitted to describe, for the information of the less informed, the best mode of effect- ing the solution of the caoutchouc in the ether, the time required to effect it, or the price of the pyrolignous ether, which is not, I believe, to be commonly met with in the druggists’ shops, not being yet in suf- ficient demand. By supplying this information he will confer a material obligation on many of your readers, and upon me among the number ; and enable many to avail themselves of his advice, who may otherwise be prevented from adopting it. Having occasion to varnish an elastic tube, I prepared a solution of caoutchouc in the essential oil, or spirit, as it is familiarly termed, of turpentine; but I found the process of solution tedious and troublesome, and, when effected, the liquid proved viscid, and slow in evaporation ; an inconvenience of which I know not how to get rid. Possibly, the solution in the pyrolignous ether, if I knew where to procure it, might be effected with more ease, and be free from the objec- jections to which the terebinthine solution is subject. — Wm. Hamilton, M.D. 15. Oxford Place, Plymouth, Oct. 4. 1832. 7 736 Queries and Answers. Of the Otaheitean Arrow-root (Tacea pinnatifida L.), what Proportion does the Fecula yielded bear to the Weight of Tubers from which it is derived? and what is the Relation of the Weight of Tubers to the superficial Quantity of Soil producing that Weight? — Your correspondent, Mr. Mathews of Lima, has furnished (p. 585.) a most valuable communication on the fecula afforded by the roots of the Técca pinnatifida, and the mode by which it is separated from them by the inhabitants of Otaheite. To this information if he could furnish a statement of the proportion of fecula obtainable from any given weight of the washed roots, and the probable weight of roots obtainable as a crop from an acre or any other given quantity of ground, he would confer an obligation on such of your readers as reside in countries adapted to the cultivation of this esculent. Its in- troduction into our West Indian Islands, by increasing the amount of human food produced within them, would perhaps be attended with much advantage to the inhabitants, both as a source of domestic supply and of profitable exportation; and if any of your readers should possess a suf- ficient share of philanthropy to furnish me (under a frank) with a few of the seeds, it will afford me much pleasure to distribute them among my correspondents in the West Indies, accompanied by any information re- specting their culture, &c., which the donor may feel disposed to transmit to me along with them. — Wm. Hamilton, M.D. Ouxford Place, Plymouth, Oct. 15. 1832. How can Plants of the Genus Citrus be prevented shedding thew Leaves and young Fruits? — I should be much gratified if any cultivators of the genus Citrus would inform me of a method to prevent the plants shedding their leaves and fruit on being removed from a green-house to another situation. ‘This last season I removed three large plants from a green- house to a light airy room, of very similar temperature, and the door of which was almost constantly kept open, as was that of the green-house. Notwithstanding this parity in the condition of the plants, they lost many of their leaves and all their small fruit. — J.J. Oet. 13. 1832. The Corolla of Calystégia sepium Brown closes in a different Manner from that in which the Corolla of Ipomee.a purpurea Lamarck closes: is there any Difference of Structure to account for this? —In my garden, Calystégia stpium and Ipomce‘a purpurea are growing together, and are twining up the same strings. I have watched them attentively in all their stages of flowering, and have seen with surprise the different manner in which the corollas close when they begin to tade. Those of Calystégia sépium close together in longitudinal folds, while the edge of the corollas of Ipome'a purptrea curls inwards upon the parts of fructification. Is there any dif- ference in the structure of the corollas, to account for the difference in the manner of their withering ? — John Rk. Rowe. Wimborne, Sept. 15. 1832. The fittest Soil for, and Management of, Auriculas in low Situations. —— Sir, I should feel grateful for plain directions as to soil and management requisite for the Primula Auricula in low situations. In Vol. IV. p. 246. you mention Mr. Gray’s having written a judicious paper on this subject ; but of his mode of treatment no mention is made. It is something of this kind that [ am in want of, as [have Hoge’s Treatise on Florist’s Flowers. I am, Sir, yours. — #. IV. On preserving Cape Heaths from Mildew. — 1 should feel greatly obliged to any cultivator of that most beautiful and interesting genus Erica, for an explanation of the cause, and instructions for the prevention, of a sort of mildew which sometimes attacks these plants in our green-houses and frames. It frequently destroys a whole set of plants m a very short time. I find no account of it in the last edition of Sweet’s Botanical Cultivator, nor in M‘Nab’s Treatise on Cape Heaths. 1 have been informed that suffering water to be poured over their tops will cause it? Ihope some - experienced cultivator will early advise me on this point. — R. W. aa Answers. 737 Which is the best Plan for a Fruit-room? — Sir, There is one very requi- site appendage to a garden, which, notwithstanding all that is written on subjects connected with gardening, seems to have in a great measure escaped observation ; I mean, the fruit-room. It may seem strange, but it is nevertheless a fact, that I have never in my life seen a fruit-room that gave me any thing near satisfaction ; and it is really somewhat strange that about many splendid gentlemen’s seats, where you would suppose in- vention had been exhausted, they are yet sadly deficient in this particular. I abstain from remark upon any existing fruit-room, and from any sugges- tions on their improvement; my object being to call the attention of yourself and correspondents to the subject, and I should feel gratified, and possibly so would many others, if you yourself or any of your nume- rous and able contributors, would so far turn their attention to the subject as to furnish the Gardener’s” Magazine with some useful information or useful designs. The structure of such a thing as a fruit-room must, of course, in most places, be in some degree modified by local circumstances ; but, I confess, were I desired to set about erecting one, I should be very much at fault. I haye sometimes hardly known whether to laugh or be sad at seeing, about the offices of splendid mansions, the store fruits of the season huddled away in filthy holes, often over the ceilings of stables, &c., among dust and cobwebs; and in heaps (when blessed with plenty) that would lead a casual observer to believe that speedy decomposition was the object in view, and, with all this (absurdly enough), the poor wight of a gardener is expected to supply the family with well-preserved wholesome fruit. All I can say is, that such things ought not to be; and, if you, Sir, and your coadjutors, will contribute your efforts, I do not despair of seeing a beneficial change in the bestowing of fruits for winter use. Iam, Sir, yours, —J. Hislop. Ashtead Park, Aug. 23. 1832. : A doubleflowered Almond Tree. —I have now in flower a double- flowered almond tree, whose blossoms have the appearance of roses. I received the tree from North America, about three years ago. — M. Saul. Sulyard Street, Lancaster, April 18. 1832. ’ The double-flowered peach tree is well known in English collections, but we have not previously heard of the double-flowered almond tree. Cailing it emphatically a “tree” renders it impossible that that elegant double-flowered little bush the Amygdalus pumila, or double dwarf almond, can be meant. — J. D. Double Flowers on Kirke’s Emperor Apple. — Sir, I have had large double flowers produced on Kirke’s Emperor apple. They were produced on the young shoots of this season that had extended to 6in. from the branch, and were bearing four leaves. The flowers were double, large, 3 in. across, and appeared, at a distance, like large double white roses. They have produced no fruit. Is it common for new young shoots to pro- duce flowers after shooting to the length of 6in.? Were these double- flowered shoots taken off in the autumn, and ingrafted in the spring, would the double-flowered variety be thenceforth perpetual? — M/. Saul. Lan- caster, July 8. 1832. $ A Kind of Beetle destructive of Grape Vines. — Sir, I have a species of beetle which has annoyed me, more or less, since 1809. My attention was then first called to it by having a row of vines, thirty-two in number, planted inside a vinery, totally destroyed by their roots being eaten off by it. It feeds on the root of the vine in winter, and on the young shoots in summer. When feeding on the roots it takes the form and colour of the worm or grub [larva] which we find in filberts; and, previously to feeding on the shoots, assumes the beetle form: I intend to send you specimens in this latter state. I am, Sir, yours, &c.— W. Z. Sept. 24, 1832. Vou. VIII.— No. 41, 3B 738 Queries and Answers. We shall receive specimens with pleasure, and will endeavour to get their name ascertained. We suspect the creature is Curculio vastator, of whose habits we know something. We request from W. Z. every fact on its habits and history which he can supply. —J. D. What Plant is fitter for the Formation of Hedges than Hawthorn? — This shrub has many faults. It is excessively slow of growth, defective in its resistance of cattle, will not grow from layers, and takes many years to form a perfect fence. Doubtless there are many woody American plants that would do better. Which are they ?— Alexander Cheeks. July 24. 1832. The letter’ containing this query has for its postmark, Beaumaris, and this indicates a clue, although not an infallible one, to the district in which the hawthorn thrives so imperfectly. I believe that a character quite the reverse will be ascribed to it in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, and in other loamy-soiled counties, where I have seen it make excellent fences ; and this in a few years: in Cambridgeshire, it may be even seen thriving where the fenny soil commences, and where water is always within 24 in. of the surface of the soil. It grows so readily from seeds, and these are produced, in most seasons, so abundantly, that few would think of in- creasing it by layers. It is, however, readily increasable by cuttings of roots derived from hawthorn plants of some age and size. Queries may be here introduced on the practice of feeding turkeys on haws in Norfolk. Is the practice common? Are the turkeys confined while thus fed? What are the results to the turkeys? and do the nuts of the haws, which have passed through the bodies of the turkeys, germinate more quickly than those which have not? In Cambridgeshire, the practice is to have the haws collected by women and children, at so much a bushel: they, with hooked sticks, pull the branches towards them, and strip off the haws by hand. Quantities of these, from 20 to 40 bushels or more, are buried, about Christmas time, together, in a long narrow pit, where they lie till the beginning of February in the second spring following. They are then taken out to be sown, when it is found that the flesh of the haw has rotted’ away during its interment, and that the seed is quite ready to rupture thé . nut: indeed, if allowed to remain in the pit later than the beginning of February, many seeds will be found to have sprouted. I have heard it asserted that haws which have passed through the bodies of turkeys are thereby prepared for germinating with less loss of time than those which are buried. This is scarcely likely to be the case. Is it the case ? and, if the case, may not an equal acceleration be effected by subjecting the haws to the action of a hot-bed of moderate heat, to decompose their fleshy part ? —J. D. : A Fungose Disease on the Leaves and Frat of the Pear Trees at Buscot Park. — Sir, I enclose a few leaves off my pear trees for your inspection, hoping that from yourself or numerous correspondents I may derive some information which may enable me to remedy this growing evil, which affects the fruitas well as the leaves, and, I believe, will, unless checked or prevented, destroy the trees altogether. Iam, Sir, yours, &c.—J. Mer- rick. Buscot Park Gardens, Oct. 22. 1832. Are the trees declining with age? Are they on a soil of which there is but a thin layer lymg upon gravel or some other arid subsoil, which deprives the top soil of too much of its moisture? Are they so situated, as to aspect, as to be early excited into leaf in the spring, before the weather has become universally exciting? In asking these questions, we do not even suggest that, if each of them were answered affirmingly, they could be set down as the causes, although it is just possible they might: so we leave our practical brothers to determine the cause, and prescribe a remedy. The leaves received are hideous objects. Much of their native green Quertes and Answers. 739 colour is displaced by a dark brown one, betokening the leaf as dead or dying in this part, and within the brown part, on the surface of the leaf, are orangy blotches, and from these blotches, on the under side, protrude softly woody excrescences, from which are projected pale brown teat-like miniature bags, more than a quarter of an inch long, and closed at the mouth, These bags are the peridia of a parasitic species of fungus belonging to the genus Aicidium ; although, to strictly accord with the cha- racters of this genus, they should have an orifice, usually lacerated, at the tip. In p. 179. of the present Volume will be found (in extracts from the Memos of the Caledonian Horticultural Society) a very interesting descrip- tion, by thelate Mr. Wm. Don of the Hull Botanic Garden, of the Acidium laceratum, and of the manner in which a,hawthorn hedge round the Hull Botanic Garden was infested with it. This pretty species, the Acidium laceratum, we have had the pleasure of seeing this autumn, although but sparingly, on the fruits and foliage of an old hawthorn hedge at Bays- water. , This species will be found well figured in the Encyclopedia of Plants, p. 1045., No. 16677. In Mr. Don’s account, already referred to, it is incidentally remarked that the “ Aicidium cancellatum of Sowerby’s English Fungi, t.409., attacks pear trees, and often prevents valuable crops.” This remark has induced us to submit the specimens, sent by Mr. Merrick, to Mr. J. D. C. Sowerby, who has kindly informed us that they are of the 7. cancellitum, and that it is one of the characteristics of this species, to have the peridia devoid of an orifice at the tip. Those whom this notice of the genus Aicidium may render desirous to know more about it will find twenty species of it described, and some of them figured, in the Encyclopedia of Plants, p. 1044—1046.; and in this Magazine there are notices of two or three species, in Vol. III. p. 382. 490, 491., Vol. IV. p. 192., Vol. VII. p. 599., and Vol. VIIL. p. 179. The peridia, or teat-like bags, already spoken of, are seed bags enclosmg the seeds, technically called sporidia; and hence it may be, that when the leaves of a tree have become diseased, so as to be eligible soil, as it were, for the seeds or sporidia of the AZcidium, that these, on falling on them, may germinate readily, and occasion that numerous and extensive multipli- cation of the fungus of which Mr. Merrick, with much cause, complains. This idea of Aicidium growing from seeds scattered on the surface of dis- eased leaves scarcely comports with one of the botanical characters of ‘the genus, which is, that the peridium, or seed bag, is formed beneath the epi- dermis of a leaf, and which it ruptures by its increasing size, and afterwards projects beyond it. If the Aicidium is, however, after springing up on a tree, multiplied by its seeds externally scattered, it is a question not unworth occupying the mind with, whence arose the original plant or plants? They might be conveyed in the air from other districts where-this parasitic fungus previls. But this question is asked, as much for the sake of introducing the following speculation as for any other purpose: it is offered by a distinguished contributor to the Magazine of Natural History, Mr. Dovaston, in vol. v. p. 116. of that work. Notwithstanding the plenti- fulness of fungi, we “ very rarely find them without some visible (and never perhaps without some latent ) excitement: such as dung, combustion, decomposing woud, or weeds; indeed, the seeds of fungi are so absolutely impalpable, that I have sometimes thought they are taken up with the juices into the capillary tubes of all vegetables, and so appear, when decom- position affords them a pabulum and excitement, on rotten wood and. leaves : and this seed is produced in such excessive quantities, thrown off so freely, and borne about so easily, that perhaps there is hardly a particle of matter whose surface is not imbued therewith; and had these seeds the power of germinating by mere wetness alone, without some other exciting 3B 2 74.0 Queries and Answers. cause, all surface would be crowded with them, and pasturage impeded.” The object of Mr. Dovaston’s paper is to account for the appearance of mushrooms and other fungi in those circles in grass land which are called fairy rings; and he attributes their thus appearing to the excitement of electricity. The above remarks, sufficiently heterogeneous in themselves, are not offered as any attempt at elucidating the subject which Mr. Mer- rick’s query has excited, but as clues and considerations attached to the subject, which any correspondent will much oblige us by farther evolving. — J.D. . A remarkable Variety of the Common Oak. — Sir, Herewith I transmit to you specimens of a singular variety of the common oak (Quércus Robur), the peculiarity of which consists,in the leaves being long, narrow, and for the most part destitute of the usual indentations so characteristic of oak foliage. (jig. 152. a.) You will observe that the leaves occa- KE jriceze! AR SS S sionally evince a tendency, more or less, to indentation (6 and c), especially those placed lowest on the shoot, i.e. the first that are ex- panded in the season: these are often of the usual form (d), and whole sprays, indeed, are to be found on the tree, bearing nothing but the ordinary foliage. The oak which produced the above specimens is a young growing tree, measuring, at breast high, little more than 3 ft. in circumference ; it stands in a hedgerow, by the side of a lane, in this ‘parish, and, I should judge, is of spontaneous growth. Though I have for many years been in the frequent habit of passing within a few yards of the tree, I never remarked any thing extraordinary in its foliage till last summer. Some acorns which I gathered from the tree last autumn have come up this spring, and bear the ordinary foliage, without exhibiting any of the peculiarities of the parent. Is the above variety worth propagating ? Provincial Nurseries. 74:1 and if so, what is the best method to adopt for that purpose? It might, i think, without impropriety, be called Quércus Robur var. salicifdlia. Yours, &c.— W. T. Bree. Allesiey Rectory, Aug. 17. 1832. Sead Hybridisements of the Melon by the Cucumber. (p. 611.) — To Mr. Oliver’s instance of this effect may be added the concurrent experience of M. Sageret, stated Vol. IV. p.383.—J. D. Limekilns and Burning of Lime. — A treatise on the best form of lime- kilns, the most economical fuel for burning lime, and the most economical method of using turf, peat, coke, coal, wood, furze, and faggots, with hard and soft limestone, blue lias, and chalk, is most exceedingly wanted. Is stone coal, Welsh coal, Staffordshire coal, or Newcastle coal, the best for the purpose? and what may be the proportionate differences of advantage and disadvantage, supposing them all at equal price ? I would earnestly venture to direct your attention to this very practical subject.— X. Y. Sept. 5. 1832. A work to the above effect would be very useful. Until one is published, we can only refer X. Y. to Mr. Menteath’s excellent article on limekilns of varied structure, illustrated by figures, in our Vol. II. p.399.; and to strictures on that article in Vol. III. p. 369,370. In Vol. IV.,also,p. 506., is a notice of a method of burning lime without kilns; and in Vol. V. p- 176., a mode of burning lime by moss, or peat, and clay, is briefly noticed. —=—JSo 2 Art.IV. Provincial Nurseries. UcKFIELD Nursery, Sussex. — This nursery was established, fifty years ago, by Alexander Cameron, uncle to the present proprietor, James Ca- meron. ‘The extent of the concern is 12 acres, but in detached divisions, with a seed-shop and general assortment of seeds. At present there are only a small green-house and some framing; but Mr. Cameron is new building a new and extensive green-house, on an experimental plan of his own, of the excellence of which he is very hopeful. The nursery contains a good general assortment of fruit trees, forest trees, and of ornamental trees and shrubs; also of herbaceous plants, and of green-house plants as well, so far as the present extent of glass permits. The specimens of hardy evergreen shrubs are very superior, particularly the phillyreas, laurustinuses, Portugal and common laurels, aucubas, red and white cedars, &c. All the new fruits introduced by the London Horticultural Society are propagated here; and there are 112 stock trees, of as many sorts (for taking grafts from) of apples, including the original tree of the Alfreston, or Shepherd’s Pippin. ‘There is a very superior collection of georginas. Mr. Cameron connects with the business of his nursery the practice of contracting for new ground work and planting by the aere.—J.C. Get. 17. 1832. Carlisle Nursery; Messrs. Wm. and Thos. Hutton, has been established upwards of half a century. It contains a few acres, two green-houses, and several pits; and Messrs. Hutton have a seed-shop in Carlisle. The nur- sery is neatly laid out, and contains a tolerable stock of articles for local consumption. Among the new shrubs, we noticed Rzbes sanguineum, and a double white Heli4nthemum, raised here from seed; and, among the herbaceous plants, a very distinct and handsome variety of Potentilla atrosanguinea, and a double-flowered P. réptans. The fuchsias, Linum arbéreum, Pittésporum, and other half-hardy shrubs, stand out about Carlisle as well as about London. American plants also thrive well in this nursery. Some turnip and other seeds are raised here ; and we found a plot, now ripe, guarded from other birds by a hawk in a cage. The hawk és found more to be depended upon than a boy or a girl. 3B 3 742 London Horticultural Society and Garden. Keswick Nursery; Mr. Kerr. This nursery, which contains 12 acres, was established about the beginning of this century. The present occupier has only entered upon it lately and, from a state of neglect, is bringing it into order and keeping. The articles grown have hitherto been chiefly forest trees; but Mr. Kerr contemplates a general collection. There are, a green-house stocked with camellias and pelargoniums; a large specimen of Pyrus salicifolia, and of the gold-blotched beech; and a new seedling Rhododéndron maximum, of more free growth than the parent; a small seed-shop ; and a few books, lent out gratis to such gardeners as feel inclined to borrow them. Art. V. London Horticultural Society and Garden. OcT, 2. 1832.— Read. A paper on the striped Hoisanee Persian melon; by the author of the Domestic Gardener's Manual. Exhibited. Flowers. Seedling georginas, from Mr. Ingram, of the royal gardens, Frogmore. A collection of georginas, from Mr. R. Chandler. A collection of georginas, three species of Salpigléssis, and Chinese roses, from Mrs. Marryatt, F.H.S. Georginas, from Mr. Wm. Hogg, Paddington. Collection of georginas, and also of Livick’s incomparable georgina, from Mr. James Young, F.H.S. Rt per half sieve- |0 0 9|0 0 0j| Chamontelle - ~- |0 7 0{010 0 Sorrel, per half sieve - 1 0};0 00 Cresanne = - }010 0/016 0 i s St. Germain - - |}0 6 0/010 0 The Onion Tribe. Colmarhl Ss E012" 0018 ap Onions, old, perbushel - | 0 19/0 2.3 Baking, per half sieve - |0 10/01 6 ’ For pickling, per 3 sieve |} 0 1 6{0 2 6/]] Quinces, per halfsieve -|0 1 0}0 1 6 When green (Ciboules), Medlars, per halfsieve -|0 3 0}0 6 O per bunch 0 - |0 0 8{0 O O}| Almonds, per peck - |0 70;0 0 0 Leeks, per dozen bunches 0 10/0 1 6)}| Chestnuts, per peck : Garlic, per pound - - |0 0 6/0 0 8 English - - - 10 2010 3 0 Shallots, per pound - - |0 0 6/0 0 8 French = S - |0 50/0 8 O F Filberts, English, per100)bs.} 210 0}0 0 O Asparaginous Plants, Pine-apples, per pound - |0 2 6/0 6 0 Salads, §c. Hot-housedSrapes, per lb. |0 1 6|0 0 0 Asparagus, per hundred- | 0 7 0]}010 0 Dutch, per dozen - |012 6/015 0 Artichokes, perdozen - |0 4 0/0 6 O Portugal, perdozen - | 0 7 0|010 0 Lettuce, per score : Cucumbers, Frame, p. brace] 0 2 0/0 3 0 Cos - r - 10 0 9/0 1 38 (Ovaneee perdozen - |0 10/0 1 6 Cabbage “ - |0 0 440.0 6 8 perhundred |0 8 0| 012 O Endive, per score - 10 16)0 2 6 gerone perdozen - |0 09/0 1 6 Celery, per bundle (12to15)}0 0 9)0 1°6 cmon per hundred 0 4 0/012 0 Small Salads, perpunnet- | 0 0 2]0 O 3) Sweet Almonds, per pound|0 2 0|0 2 6 Burnet, per bunch - |0 0 1)0 O 12}| Brazil Nuts, perbushel -}016 0|)0 0 0 Observations. — Our supplies of vegetables have not been so heavy as usual at this season, except in turnips, owing to the prevalence of drought through the summer ; but a general dulness has prevailed, which has kept down the prices to the present moderate quotations. Fruit has come to hand plentifully ; but,in consequence of the yery moderate prices obtained, a large proportion of apples has been kept for the purpose of making cider, the common sorts not realising enough to pay the cost of carriage and incidental expenses ; the better varieties, either for sauce or table, are selling now moderately well, although the demand has not been at any time brisk. Pears, generally, have also been abundant, but not so large or fine as usual; many of the better sorts have been particularly (for our market) plentiful, but not considered so high in quality for the table as in general : some of the newer varieties have also been furnished, but they are not yet so generally cultivated as to insure a regular supply. Oranges Provincial Horticultural Societies. 745 are just now coming into season; but are not yet generally sought after, although the prices at present are very moderate. Of chestnuts we have had a moderate crop. Walnuts have been particularly plentiful, and of excellent quality, notwithstanding large supplies have been imported. Grapes have also been abundant, both from the houses and open walls; which, with a large supply from Holland, has caused them to be very cheap. Pine-apples are now so generally cultivated as to make them almost plen- tiful at all seasons: they have sold this season lower than was ever before remembered. Onions have been harvested in large quantities, and in mid- -dling condition, and are likely to be plentiful and cheap throughout the winter. Potatoes are not so heavy a crop as usual; but, in consequence of the excellent supply kept up in the river by the constant arrivals from all parts of the coast, they are not likely to be high in price. — G. C. Nov, 22. 1832. Art. VII. Provincial Horticultural Societies. ENGLAND. . BeprorpsHire. — Bedfordshire Horticultural Society. July. This sum- mer’s show was remarkably fine, particularly the cottagers’ vegetables. The principal prizes for the carnations and picotees were awarded to Messrs. J. B. Coter, Brinkles, Musgrave, Pullen, Bundy, Furze, and Clarke, Mr. Brinkles exhibited a fine seedling carnation Queen Adelaide, and a seed- ling picotee, Brinkles’s Delight. The heaviest red gooseberry, the Roaring Lion, was exhibited by Mr. Nash: its weight was 26 dwts. 12 grs. The heaviest yellow was the Gunner, Mr. Furze; weight, 24 dwts. 18 grs. Green, Troubler, Mr. Chapman; 21 dwts. 17 grs. White, Governess, Mr. Pullen; 22 dwts. 15 grs. The currants and raspberries shown were also very fine. (Northampton Mercury, Aug. 4.) i CAMBRIDGESHIRE. —Cambridge Horticultural Society. June 27. The principal flowers were ranunculuses, pinks, and roses. The first prize for the ranunculuses was given to Mr. F. Finch; for the pinks, to Mr. Ripsher; and ‘for the roses, to Mr. Widnall. August 12. Very numerous kinds of fruits and flowers were exhibited. The ironmonger gooseberry won the prize for flavour; the roaring lion that for weight ; one berry weighed 1 oz. 22 grs. ; 42 bunches of red currants weighed 1 Ib., and of white currants only 30 bunches. Excellent carna- tions and picotees were exhibited. Six prizes were awarded to cottagers. Seven extra-prizes were awarded. One to Mr. Widnall for a seedling geor- gina, which is stated to be “ a most splendid production.” One to Mr. Biggs, curator of the botanic garden, for a Fuchsia multiflora, which is stated to have excited general admiration. One to Mr. Denson, for a symmetrical and perfect spike of flowers of Yécca gloridsa. (Cambridge Chronicle, Aug. 3. 1832.) Sept. 19. Many good things were exhibited at this show, but the most - original among them were the georginas. This happens from the enterprise of Mr. Widnall, at Grantchester, near Cambridge, in this family of flowers, who devotes much time to the ascertaining where new varieties of merit are raised, and hesitates not to pay handsome prices for the exclusive pos- session of such, where they are to be purchased, and has himself, besides, raised several varieties of merit. As these causes not only insure that the kinds of georgina which he himself exhibits are choice, but that those put in competition with them: are choice also, we give the names of all the georginas which won prizes at this show : — Georginas (12 double, one of a sort): first prize, medal, Aurantia pallida, Prmce George of Cumber- * 746 Prowincial Horticultural Societies :— land, Galathéa, Pure yellow, Paper white, Lady Grenville, Lord Liverpool, Widnall’s Prince of Orange, Guttata, Widnall’s carnea, Surpasse triomphe royale, Nympheeiflora, Mr. Widnall; Second prize, King of the Whites, Cambridge Surprise, William the Fourth, Mogul, Mountain of Snow, Au- rantia pallida, Lady Fitzharris, Imperidsa, Countess of Liverpool, Barret’s Superina [ ?Susannah], Douglas’s Augusta, Pure yellow, Mr. Robt. Nutter. Georginas (6 double, one of a sort): Countess of Liverpool, Lord Liver- pool, Cambridge Surprise, Widnall’s Black Prince, Widnall’s Iris, China aster-flowered, Mr. Widnall.; Second prize, Countess of Liverpool, Augista, Mountain of Snow, Queen of Roses, Constantia, Mr. Searle. Georgina (of any sort), Widnall’s Perfection, Mr. Widnall. Georgina (seedling), Mr. Widnall. (Cambridge Chronicle, Sept. 21. 1832.) Cambridge Florists’ Society.— July 30.1832. This was the seventh annual show of this Society, and at it were exhibited some excellent flowers of carnations, picotees, and georginas. Mr. Catling won the premier prize for the best carnation, by Wilde’s Perfection; and Mr. Nutter that for the best picotee, by Wood’s Countess of Sandwich. Mr. Twitchet and Mr. Purchas seem to haye won many prizes among the carnations and picotees. (Cambridge Chronicle, Aug. 3. 1832.) Cornwa.i. — The Royal Horticultural Society of Cornwall. June 29. 1832. This Society has King William the Fourth for an annual subscriber of ten guineas: hence it is called royal. The pines, melons, strawberries, cherries, and other kinds of fruit were of superior quality. Of flowers there was a copious supply, and the competition was, in consequence, very spirited. Ficus elastica, Amaryllis vittata, and Vallota purpurea are men- tioned. “ The most remarkable plant in the room was a new species of Cérnus, raised from Nepal seeds, some years ago, in the garden of J. H. Tremayne, Esq. at Heligan. It is a handsome shrub, perfectly hardy, and bears a profusion of large white blossoms.”’ The show of vegetables was commendable. Prizes were awarded for indigenous plants, and for cot- tagers’ productions. (West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser, July 6. 1832.) t August 16. This was but the second show of the Society, but the emu- lation which prevailed caused the display of flowers, fruit, and vegetables that adorned the room to far exceed the expectations of the most sanguine. Gloriosa supérba and Brunsvigia Josephine were the rarest plants shown. The Rev. Robert Walker exhibited specimens of a new grass adapted for soiling: it appeared to be a species of clover. After the prizes had been announced, a number of copies of a little poetic effusion of the veteran bard of Cornwall [who is he ?], entitled Moral Emblems, were distributed among the company, having been liberally presented by Mr. Polwhele. At the dinner the gratifying announcement was made, that His Majesty has been most graciously pleased to direct an annual subscription of ten guineas to be paid to the funds of the Society. (West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser, August 24. 1832.) October 11. This was but the third exhibition of this Society, and the chairman, Sir C. Lemon, Bart., in remarking the perfect success of the attempt to form it, observed, “ It would be strange indeed if it had been otherwise, as there is no county which possesses superior advantages, in a horticultural point of view, to our own. ‘The salubrity of its climate, and the genial mildness of its temperature, are well known. Many plants which will net endure the-common winters of other parts of England without protection, are to be seen in the gardens of Cornwall flourishing in almost their native luxuriance. In this respect,’ continued the hon. baronet, “ our climate is particularly favourable for making experiments on the comparative hardiness of exotic plants. There are few, he sup- posed, who had not at one time or other had the curiosity to enter on this Interesting subject. He had himself pursued it to some extent, and, he might add, with tolerable success. Should any one be desirous of visiting 7 _ Cornwall, Cumberland. 74:7 his gardens, he would be happy to point out to them those plants which appeared to him to be acclimatised, He hoped the matter would not be lost sight of by the Horticultural Society, and that it might receive an additional impulse from the members communicating, at some of their future meetings, the results of their several experiments. With re- spect to the botany of Cornwall, he was led to believe it was not yet sufficiently understood. There were several plants, whose names at that moment were not familiar to his mind, which he knew to be almost exclusively confined to Cornwall. One of these, the Erica ciliaris, was added to our English flora a very few years ago by himself. It was also found much about the same time in the vicinity of Truro, by the Reverend Mr. Tozer; and it was remarkable that this beautiful plant should have remained so long unnoticed, as it covers a space in one of his (Sir C. L.’s) plantations of from 15 to 20 acres in extent.” — The assortment of fruit was very extensive, particularly of melons, apples, and pears. Of flowering plants, several species, and many fine specimens, were exhibited: of those named, the rarest are Ipomee‘a insignis, Jatropha multifida, and Cornus capitata, a handsome evergreen from the East Indies, perfectly hardy. The assortment of vegetables was pretty extensive, and the samples large and handsome. We noticed among them a variety of white beet, which is not so much cultivated in our gardens as we think it deserves. It is the Poirée & carte blanche of the French, and in our opinion an excellent vegetable. The manner of dressing and using it, we believe, is similar.to sea-kale. Indigenous Plants. Judges, W. M. Tweedy, Esq., Mr. W. B. Booth, Assoc. Linn. Soc. London. Most rare species of indige®us plants : Sdlvia praténsis, R. W. Fox, Esq.; second ditto, Antirrhinum Cymbalaria, R. W. Fox, Esq. Best group, Scrophularia Scorod6nia, Asplénium lanceola- tum and marinum, 7marix gallica, Orobanche major, Ophrys spiralis, Miss Warren; second best group, Zllécebrum verticillatum, Asplénium mari- num, Pinguicula lusitanica, Sparganium ramosum, B. Sampson, Esq. The admirers of this interesting branch of botany are gradually mcreasing. Cottagers’ Prizes. The productions in this class were all, more or less, deserving of great commendation. ‘The good effects of the Society are already beginning to appear, in the excitement it has given to the dustrious cottager. We doubt not but the rewards which have this year been distri- buted will induce a large portion to enter and compete for the prizes that will be given next season. Indeed, we think it is not too much to hope that in the course of a few years a great improvement will be visible, both in the exterior appearances and interior arrangements of our numerous cottages. As a distinguished writer mgeniously remarks that the face is an index to the mind, so are we of opinion, that the neatness and cleanli- ness of the cottager’s garden is a proof of the happiness and comfort within. (Cornwall Royal Gazette, Oct. 20.) CumBERLAND. — IVhitehaven Horticultural Society's Flower Show. Aug. 10. 1832. The display of flowers was a very magnificent one: there was an immense variety of carnations, picotees, and georginas ; and the prize flowers were deemed very good. Two very noble specimens of Campanula pyramidalis were shown. Mr. R. Elliott.showed a new variety of potato, raised from seed: the tubers were remarkable for their size and beauty. Although this is called a flower show, numerous fruits were exhibited, and these are highly praised by the reporter. There was a plate or two of apples, of last year’s growth, uncommonly well preserved. “ Gooseberries have not been fine this year; the long-continued dry weather hurt them, especially the larger kinds, much. The choicer of the plants exhibited were Kalosanthes coccinea, a Cyrtanthus, an Erythrina, 7’rachelium czeru-, leum, and Calceolaria plantaginea. There was a prize for a nosegay of indigenous flowers. (Whitehaven Herald, Aug. 14, 1832.) 748 Provincial Horticultural Societies : — Devonshire, Devonsuire. — North Devon Horticultural Society. July 4. 1832. There was a very splendid display of flowers, a plentiful show of fine fruit, and an award of many prizes for them, and of several to cottagers for their pro- ductions. Much taste was displayed in the decoration of the walls and other parts of the show room, and the initial letters of the names of patrons were formed with a variety of beautiful flowers. The chairman announced that the foundation of a botanical and horticultural library had been laid by contributions from several members.’ A prize was awarded for the six best varieties of heartsease. Gladiolus natalénsis was exhibited by Mr. Burge. (County and North Devon Advertiser, July 6. 1832.) Devonand Exeter Botanical and Horticultural Society. — Oct.4. The dis- plays of fruit, vegetables, and flowers, and the company to inspect them, were most gratifying. A triumphal arch was formed in the room, of evergreens and flowers; and the pillars sustaining the arch were formed of about 1000 flowers of georginas in numerous varieties. Mr. Veitch showed flowers of the Hanoverian striped georgina, which were much admired, and so were his Chinese asters, raised from seeds obtained of the London Horticultural Society. Mr. Booth’s citron trees are eulogised, and their fruit won a prize. Among the flowering plants, which were rather numerous, and some of them choice, we noticed “a remarkably grand specimen of the Datura arborea in flower, and finely branching.” No plant can be more superb than this. Messrs. Lucombe and Co. exhibited a specimen of Nepénthes distillatoria, the pitchers of which were much admired for their “ elegance and truly classical form.’ The display of fruits on this occa- sion has not been surpassed in the eleven previous shows of the Society. Messrs. Dymond ‘and Co. exhibited one bunch of the Muscat from Lunelle, which weighed 3 Ibs. 10 oz. The vegetable tribes gave proof of the effi- cacy of the Society; and of the stimulus that has by means of it been generally imparted; and several cottagers made creditable displays. Of home-made wines there was a variety of samples; nor should those from Mr. Gifford’s, especially that from the green grape, pass without mention. Of preserved and dried fruits there were many specimens, and some very fine plums of the growth of 1830. After the judges had finished their labours, John Milford, Esq., was called to the chair, and addressed the company that filled the room. Among his remarks were these :— After speaking on the perfect success of the Society, and the good it had effected, he observed, “ It is my ear- nest hope, that every year the public may derive benefit as well as amuse- ment from our establishment: benefit in the improved state of our mar- kets, by the introduction of new and rare vegetables and fruits; and amusement, from the contemplation of such objects as are now before you. I will avail myself of the present opportunity to make a few observ- ations on our library, which consists of some standard works on botany and horticulture, together with periodicals on the same subjects. As an _ individual I have found our reading-room a great resource, and spent many hours there both with amusement and instruction. I regret that it is not more generally resorted to, as my wish, m common with the wishes of those persons who were mainly instrumental in the early form- ation of the Society, was, to combine a little science with our amusement, so as to prevent our Society dwindling into a mere flower show. I could wish that our practical skill in the art of gardening, an art which is now exciting such universal interest in almost every civilised state, should with us be accompanied by some scientific developement. Although the present state of our funds does not justify the committee in recommending the -adoption of the more extended plan at first contemplated, I mean the » formation of a botanic garden, I trust, notwithstanding, that the advan- _ tage of a well selected library may diffuse a taste for botany and horticul- Durham and Northumberland, Essex. 74.9 ture in every part of our beautiful county, which has justly been denomi-_ nated the garden of England.” (Zveter Flying Post, Oct. 11. 1832.) Duryuam anp NorTHUMBERLAND. — Botanical and Horticultural So- ciety of Durham, Northumberland, and Newcastle upon Tyne. July 6. The best exotic plant in flower displayed at this Meeting was Crinum peduncu- latum. “Mr. Thomas Pearson, gardener to Isaac Cookson, Esq., Gates- head Park, is the individual to whom was awarded the sum of three guineas offered to the gardener who produced the best testimonials of his abilities, and of the greatest length of servitude in one family ; Mr. Pearson having lived gardener to Mr. Cookson upwards of twenty-one years. There were twelve pines on the table: that which won the gold medal was a Black Antigua, and was allowed by the judges to be the highest flavoured they ever tasted: it was grown by. Mr. William Kelly, gardener to A. Don- kin, Esq., Jesmond. (Newcastle Courant, July 14. 1832.) Aug. 31. 1832. This was the Anniversary Meeting and dinner, and the majority of the numerous prizes seem to have been won by gardeners. Between thirty and forty members and friends dined. After dinner the toasts, speeches, and songs were numerous. On the health of the secre- taries being drunk, Mr. Falla, one of them, among other remarks, observed, that “ the only claim of merit that he could make was, that he had had something to do with the establishment of the library of the Society. He hoped the day was not far distant when the Society would become more scientific than it had been hitherto; and when it would possess a garden. He respectfully begged to renew his promise, when that took place, that he would, with the greatest pleasure, present the Society with a specimen of every plant he had in his nursery, and superintend the planting and arrangement of the same.” (Jdid., Sept. 8. 1832.) The Heworth Florists’ and Horticultural Society exhibited pinks on July 7. 1832, when the winning kinds were Becksley’s Beauty, Prince Leopold, Adelina, Lord Wellington, and Princess Charlotte. (déid., July 14. 1832.) Essex. — Chelmsford Florists’ Society. July 31. 1832. Carnations, pico- tees, georginas, and fruits were the productions exhibited, and these were of a superior description. Among the prizes for georginas, Mr. Sorrell of Chelmsford won a prize by Sorrell’s Chelmsford Surprise, along with other generally known kinds. (Essex Independent, Aug. 3. 1832.) Chelmsford and Essex Floral and Horticultural Society. — July 2. 1832. Roses, pinks, pelargoniums, irises, cut flowers, strawberries, melons, cher- ries, and cauliflowers. The strawberries were numerous, the geraniums handsome ; and the cauliflowers, for the time of year, very fine. (Essea and Suffolk Press, July 10. 1832.) Sept. 11. Georginas were numerous; and the Rev. W. Jesse and Mr. Sorrell won the prizes for seedling kinds. The Carotte Violette, or pur- ple carot, and long white carot, Carotte Blanche, won prizes. A more magnificent display of fruits and flowers was never witnessed. A drawing of moss roses, by Miss Fearnley of Springfield, possessing great merit, was most deservedly admired. (Essex Herald, Sept. 18. 1832, quoted from the Chelmsford Chronicle.) HEREFORDSHIRE. — Hereford Horticultural Society. July 31. 1832. Car- nations, picotees, georginas, flowering plants, and fruits were the objects shown. In the picotee class, the yellow ones surpassed every thing of the kind ever shown here; and the difficulty of cultivating and bloom- ing them so perfectly was duly appreciated, and of course rewarded by prizes. The other picotees and carnations were unusually large, excellent, and in full supply: amongst the latter appeared a rose flake, possessing great merit, and raised from seed by Mr. William Townsend, cutler, of this city, to whom a first prize was awarded: In the georginas, some prime seedlings were displayed, and one, in particular, 750 Prov. Hort. Soc. :— Herefordshire, Lancashire. distinctly and broadly striped ; which circumstance we hail with great satis- faction, and doubt not that, in a few years, georginas will be produced as much diversified by stripes as carnations. The gooseberries were very abundant, and many of them not only very large, but good as well as great : indeed, the prejudice against large gooseberries is fast wearmg away, as some of them may be brought into competition as to flavour even with the old rqngh red. ‘There were some berries exhibited from a seedling plant by a non-subscriber, possessing size and richness of flavour in an eminent degree. The plums were not sufficiently matured, but the pines, melons, peaches, nectarines, apricots and grapes were of first-rate size and quality ; and, to crown all, a highly respectable and numerous assemblage honoured the excellent display with their presence and approbation. The names of the gooseberries which won prizes, are, red, Crown Bob, Roaring Lion, King’s Globe; green, Ocean, Greenwood’s Green ; yellow, Royal Gunner, Golden Chain, Orange Globe. Mr. Godsall won three of these prizes, and several prizes for other objects. (Hereford Journal, Aug. 15. 1832.) Sept. 21. At this last show for the present year georgina flowers were profusely abundant ; among them were many seedlings, several of which were broken into distinct stripes; the peaches, nectarines, plums, and grapes were abundant and excellent. 84 varieties of apples and 25 of pears were exhibited, most of them of extraordinary size and beauty. Miss Anne Parry exhibited a “ double [flowered] Eschschéltza.” Mr. Godsall, nurseryman, has won the greatest number of prizes in this Society during the year. (Ibid., Sept. 26. 1832.) Ross Horticultural Society. — July 25. 1832. The carnations and picotees were of the first quality and in prime bloom, and the stage of them was admitted by all florists present to be the best they had ever witnessed. Georginas were in great abundance and in great beauty; and the first prize among the light kinds, namely the purple-fringed, was universally admired, the petals being fringed with purple, like the best picotee. The gooseberries, from the dry weather, were not so large as they are usually seen at the show at this season, but the other fruits were the admiration of all. Numerous prizes were awarded for carnations, picotees, georginas, bal- sams, cockscombs, and house plants, Hoya carndsa, Pheenécoma prolifera, Kalosanthes coccinea, Erica ampullacea, infundibuliférmis, and Parmen- tiéria rosea. Among the gooseberries the winning kinds were, red, Roaring Lion, Crown Bob, and Warrington; green, Greenwood’s Green, Lancaster Lad; white, Woodward’s Whitesmith; yellow, Golden Lion, Queen of the Yellows, and Amber. (Jdid., Aug. 1. 1832.) Sept. 19. Georginas in abundance, peaches, nectarines, out-of-door grapes, apples, pears, melons, heaths, and vegetables were exhibited. The report of the show is closed with the following remarks on Indian Corn :— “In a former journal we stated that Mr. Palmer of Pencoyd, and Mr. Palmer of Bolitree, near Ross, this year cultivated several acres of what is gene- rally termed Cobbett’s corn, and that the crop promised to be very fine. This expectation has been fully realised, and we have received a cob or ear from one of the fields, of great size and perfection. The followmg me- thod of cultivation was adopted by Mr. Palmer af Pencoyd: — The crop was planted on the 10th of May, on ridges 6 ft, over, two rows on the top of each ridge; it was hand-hoed on the 16th, 18th, and 19th of June, and some were transplanted on the 28th to fill up the vacancies caused by the ravages of the black beetles, which are very destructive to the plants when in an infant state. On the 14th of July, and following day, the intervals between the ridges of corn were ploughed deeply, approaching to within 3 in. of the plants: on the 20th, the taking off the suckers which spring up at the footstalk of the plant commenced ; and on the 26th, the earth which had been ploughed from the ridges on the 4th and 5th July, was turned Obituary. ; DAG: back to them. After this ploughing, the corn grew prodigiously, and, as far as promise could go, ‘ gave the lie direct to the wiseacres who said there would be no crop.’ On the 7th August, Mr. Palmer gave the corn a second ploughing between the ridges, the same as before, except that he did not approach quite so near to the plant. The high winds about the latter end of the month having knocked the crop about, which had then attained the height of 4 ft., some men were put to earth it up after the manner of teasels. Yesterday Mr. Palmer commenced cutting away the tops and blades, leaving the ears standing on the footstalks to harden for another fortnight, or three weeks, when he will commence harvesting the crop. Mr. Palmer observes, ‘ that there is a crop, and a productive one, too, any man may satisfy himself: who will take the trouble; and the spe- cimen you have will show the state of perfection at which it is already arrived.’” (Hereford Journal, Sept. 26. 1832.) LancasuiRe. — Lancaster Floral and Horticultural Society. August 3. 1832. The carnations and picotees exhibited were good, although not very numerous. Miss Dalton exhibited a magnificent specimen of Yiicca gloriosa. The georginas were superb. Of the carnations, Wild’s Perfec- tion won the first prize among the scarlet bizarres; Wakefield’s Paul Pry the first among the pink bizarres; Turner’s Princess Charlotte the first among the purple flakes ; Wilson’s Mountaineer, the first among the scarlet flakes ; Clegg’s Smiling Beauty, the first among the pink flakes. Of the picotees, Boothman’s Victoria won the first prize among the purple kinds, and Kenny’s Incomparable the first prize among the red kinds. The kinds of gooseberry which won prizes are, red, Top Sawyer and Roaring Lion ; yellow, Rockwood and Gunner; green, Greenwood and Independent; white, Wellington’s Glory and White Eagle. That beautifully and freely blooming hardy green-house shrub, Ceanothus aztireus, was much admired, and was honoured with a prize. (Lancaster Herald, Aug. 4. 1832. Lancaster Horticultural Society. — Oct. 6. The shows of this Society have in previous years been confined to the summer months; but, in compliance with the wishes of the lovers of fruit, an autumnal show was attempted. Mr. Ronalds of Brentford sent named specimens of many varieties of apple to Mr. Saul, who exhibited them, and also 26 sorts furnished by himself. Dr. Stevenson of Gilmerton, near Edinburgh, sent 60 varieties. The Rey. Thos. Mackreth of Halton, also, supplied upwards of 26 va- rieties. Mr. Saul, at the end of the show, distributed the apples supplied by himself and his friend, Dr. Stevenson, to the persons present: an op- portunity of tasting new fruit, of which many were delighted to avail themselves. Besides apples, pears, figs, grapes, pumpkins, and many other fruits and vegetables, and many varieties of georgina, were exhibited. (Lancaster Gazette, Oct. 13. 1832.) Art. VIII. Odituary. Diep, on the 8th of October, 1832, Mr. William Johnstone Shennan, aged about 40 years, formerly of Gunnersbury Park, and late gardener to Edward Baker, Esq., of Salisbury. Mr Shennan having been well known to you and many of your readers, I neéd only observe, that, as a practical gardener in every branch of his profession, there were few to excel him. As a last tribute to his memory, after an uninterrupted friendship of nearly. twenty years, allow me to add, that a more upright man, and more sincere friend, did not exist. — Robert Reid. Cothelston, Oct. 25. 1832. INDEX TO BOOKS REVIEWED AND NOTICED. GENERAL SUBJECT. An Address to the Labouring Classes, not. 202. Arcana of Science and Art, for 1832, not. 202. Braidwood’s work on the Construction of Fire Engines and Apparatus, not. 203. Bryan’s Practical View of Ireland, not. 203. Cape of Good Hope Literary Gazette, not. 718. Dewhurst’s Practical Observations on warming Dwelling Houses, Cathedrals, Churches, Thea- tres, and other Public Buildings with Hot- water, noticed, 221. Don’s General System of Gardening and Bo- tany, not. vol. 1.203; vol. ii. 698. Doyle’s Hint’s on Emigration to Upper Canada, not. 718. Facts and Illustrations demonstrating the im- portant Benefits derived by Labourers from occupying small portions of Land, not. 202. Henslow’s Examination of a Hybrid Digitalis, not. 208. Hooker’s Botanical Miscellany, not. 294. 712. Lindley’s Introduction to Botany, not. 705. Moggridge’s Popular Education in France, not. 199 Our. Neighbourhood: or, Letters on Horti- culture, &c. 454. ° Payne’s Apiarian’s Guide, prospectus of, 463. - Poiteau and Vilmorin’s Le Bon Jardinier, not. "453. Quarterly Journal of Education, not. 198. Sinclair’s Hints on Vegetation, 204. Sussex Association for improving the Condition of the Labouring Classes, not. 199; Quarterly Report of the, not. 200. Time’s Telescope for 1832, not. 202. ‘Transactions of the Albany Institute, America, noticed, 719. Vegetable Diet not inducive of Cholera, not. 719. LANDSCAPE-GARDENING. Gilpin’s Practical Hints on Landscape-Garden- ing announced, 224; not. 700. FLORICULTURE. Additional Supplement to Loudon’s Hortus * Britannicus, announced, 224; not. 604. Blume’s Flora Jave, not. 707. British Flowering Plants, not. 715. Chandler and Booth’s Illustrations and Descrip- tions of the Camellzéa, not. 211. Curtis’s Botanical Magazine, not. 224. 345. 454, 596. 721. c Edwards’s Botanical Register, not. 224. 345. 454. 596. 721. Haworth’s Narcissinearum Monographia, 2d edition, not. 212. ; Hooker’s and Greville’s Figures and Descrip- tions of Ferns, not. 706. Loddiges’s Botanical Cabinet. not. 224. 345. 454. 596. 721. Mackay’s Catalogue of the Phzenogamous Plants and Ferns of Ireland, not. 716. M‘Nab’s Treatise on the Propagation, Cultiva- tion, and General Treatment of Cape Heaths, in a Climate where they require Protection during the Winter Months, not. 210. Mantell’s Chart of Floriculture, not. 716. Maund’s Botanic Garden, not. 224. Nees von Esenbeck’s Genera and Species Aste- rearum, not. 714. Smith’s and Sowerby’s English Botany, second edition, not. 714, Sweet’s British Flower-Garden, not. 224. 345. 454 596, 721. Wallich’s Plante rariores Asiaticx, not. 717. Wenstriém’s Handbok i Blomsterkulteren for Fruntimmer, not. 720. ARCHITECTURE. Leigh’s Music of the Eye, 205. r Loudon’s Encyclopedia of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Architecture, announced, 221 ; not. 344, ARBORICULTURE. Horton’s Tables for Planting and Valuing Un- derwood and Woodland, &c., not. 208. Matthews on Naval Timber and Arboriculture not. 702. . The Midland Forester, not. 208. The Planting of Forest Trees, in Four Numbers of the Farmer’s Series of the Library of Useful Knowledge, not. 207. AGRICULTURE. Cleghorn’s System of Agriculture, not. 220. Lambert’s Rural Affairs of Ireland, rev. 215. Proceedings of the Pennsylvania Agricultural Society, 454. Riley’s Remarks on the Importation of the Cachemire, and Angora Goats into Europe, and of the hybrid kind Cachemire-Angora into Australia, 452. HORTICULTURE. Antoine’s Figures from Nature of 51 Sorts of Peaches, not. 720. Callow’s Treatise on the Cultivation of the Mushroom, 213. Catalogue of the Fruits cultivated in the Garden . of the Horticultural Society of London, 2d edition, not. 212. : Jacquin *s Monographie compléte du Melon, not, 53 Lindley’s Outlines of the First Principles of Horticulture, announced, 463., not. 703. Memoirs of the Caledonian Horticultural So. _ ciety, Vol. 1V. Part II. rev. 178; Vol. V. Part I. not. 205. Sowerby’s Mushroom and Champignon illus- trated, not. 224. Transactions of the Horticultural Society of London. Second series. Vol. I. Part I. rev. 177. Verhandlungen des Vereins zur Berforderung desGartenbaues in den K6niglich Preussischen Staaten, Vol. II. rev. 187. : GENERAL INDEX. Acacia Julibrtssin, 35 ft. high, near Philadel. phia, 272. Acclimatising half-hardy exotics to the sea- sons of Britain, 45; Bowie’s directions for acclimatising, in the gardens of Britain, the plants of Australia and the Cape of Good Hope, 5; alist of the plants which have stood out at Drumcondra, near Dublin, during one or more winters, 568; list of exotics which have lived for several years in the gardens of Charles Hoare, Esq. at Luscombe, Devon, 566; Nerine humilis and undulata, nearly hardy, 81. Acer, the species of, whose sap is used in America for the formation of sugar, 503. Admirable, a drink, a method of making, 182. ZEcidium laceratum, a fungus parasitic on haw- thorn, 179; Aecidium, a species of, parasitic on the leaves and fruit of pear trees, 738. Agriculture, remarks appertaining to, 220; on chloride of lime in, 445; British Society of Agriculture, 89. ‘ Alder, common in light sandy soil, grows more rapidly than birch, 456. Almond: tree, double flowered, 737. Amaryllis, M. Otto’s remarks on the culture of the genus, 188; AmarYllis gigantéa, and its culture, 189; fornaosissima seeds in the open air, in England, 94. America, North, notices on, 70 ; wild shrubs of, 75; geology of Philipsburgh im Pennsylvania, 76; the treatment received in the United States by a young British gardener, 360 ; Mrs. Trollope’s beok on America noticed, 360 ; sugar procured in America from the sap of species of maple, 502; critical notice of Mrs. Troilepe’s account of the indigenous flowers and fruits of the state ef Ohio, 374. America. See Nurseries. American blight. “See A’phis. _ Ammoniacal liquor of coal gas, destroys insects and vermin, 41; a mode of applying it, 656. Andrémeda@ arborea, 75 ft. high, near Phil- adelphia, 272. Angles, an instrument for laying off or trans- ferring them, in practical gardening, 30. Annual flowering plants, the seeds of some species of, should be sown in autumn, 570. Ants, a means ef destroying, 148. Aphis lanigera, on apple and other trees, a means of destroying, 53. 149; the A*phis, on peach and nectarine trees, a mode of destroy- ing the, 580. Su be : Apple, the kinds of, which thrive in the neigh- bourhood of Kilkenny, and their character- istics, 165; early kinds of, 167; middle season kinds of, 168; late keeping kinds of, 179; kinds of apple eligible for making cider, 244; information and a query on the Shustoke pippin apple, 610; a ladder held up by ropes for gathering apples, &c.,581; remarks on the relative value for cider of the golden pippin, Chaseley Harvey, Flanders pippin, and other kinds of apple, 583. ; Apple powder, the Chelsea, enquiry on, 610. Apple trees, on raising them from pips, 317; apple trees trained to a wall built at an angle of 10 deg. to the earth’s horizon, produced an abundance of fruit, 183; a mode of destroying the bug, or A*‘phis lanigera, on apple trees, 52. 357; Kirke’s emperor apple tree, sported with double Aowers, 737. Vou. VILL. —No. 41. peo: Met hempson’s report on the varieties of, 43: 3 Aquarium, a mode of forming an, 84. . coe spinosa, 25 ft. high, near Philadelphia, Architecture, notices on, 205; Loudon’s Ency- clopedza of Architecture, its plan and scope, 221; architecture about London, criticisms on, 473. Armagh palace, gardens at, 81. Atrow-root, the method, by which the inha- bitants of Otaheite prepare, 585; queries on the quantity of tubers in relation to the space the plants occupy, and on the quantity of fecula in proportion to that of tubers, 736 Artichoke, a variety of, its blanched leafstalks are much eaten at Rome and Naples, 267. 271. Asparagus, hints on cultivating, 180; at Berlin, green asparagus is preferred in_ winter, blanched asparagus during spring, 450; Prus- sian asparagus, Ornithogalum pyrenaicum, described, 613. ean ee its charms and features sketched, 595. : Auriculas, the management of, and soil for, in low situations, queried 736. Australia, notices on, 77; Bowie’s hints on cultivating and acclimatising, in England, the leguminous plants of. Australia, 15. Awning and frame, cheap, for shading: florists’ flowers grown in beds, 45. Bagnoles Wells, some account of, 63; the vege- table productions of the neighbourhood of, 356. Balsam, Balsamina horténsis Desporfes, an in- vestigation of its structure, 403. Bark of trees, a recipe for promoting its growth over barkless places, 150. Barley, information and queries respecting agri- cultural horses fed on, 613; barley big, its history and uses, 95. ~ Batata. See Ipomee‘a Batatas. Bean, field (Faba vulgaris), a very vigorous plant of, 187. Bee, the honey bee has the power to generate a queen, 498. - Beech, purple-leaved, the seeds of, produce some purple-leaved seedlings, 445. Beehive, Huish’s, corrections to the printed dimensions of, 3/5; Young’s description of two kinds of beehive, 664. Beer from sugar mixed with mferior malt or unmalted barley, 95; cheap beer for gar- deners and their workmen, modes of pro- ducing, 61; ale, how to make, from the man- gold wurzel, 697. ‘ Beetles, black, a means of destroying, 148. Berries, some wild white and red in Norway, of what plants? 611. ; Beulah Spa, its gardens noticed, 594. Birch, Sétula alba, economical properties of, 93; grows not so fast as alder on light sandy soil, 456. ; « Birmingham botanical and horticultural gar- den, Mr. Louden’s plans for, 407; gardens of the workmen at Birmingham, 79. Boiler, Neeve’s improved forms for boilers, at- faced to apparatus for heating by hot water, Botanical and horticultural society: Bristol, 118 ; Bristol and Clifton, 119; Devon and Exeter, 627.748; Hexham, 632; Majichester, 3 C 754 115 ;, Newcastle, 252; Northumberland and _. Durham, 118. 631. 749. Bourne, Frederick, Esq., his garden near Dub- lin, noticed, 83. 571. 482. i Brandy, home, a mode of making, 180; a kind of brandy called maroschino is made from the fruit of Prinus bis-fldrens, 188. ; Brassica, an alternative for avoiding the club in the roots of the different species of, 55. See also Cabbage. Bretton Hall, the green-houses and hot-houses at, remarks on, 361; counter remarks, 607. _Bridge-building, 59. : } Broccoli, Portsmouth, the cause of its superi- ority sought, 612. Brugmansia suaveolens, noticed, 47; on the cultivation of, in a conservatory, 159; M. Sinning’s mode of cultivating, 195. Brussels botanic garden, 400. Buckwheat, a blue colour obtainable from, 42. Bury St. Edmunds, new botanic garden at, briefly noticed, 79. } Button wood trees, Pld4tanus occidentalis, of very large size in the United States, 153. Cabbage, sea or wild, its excellence as a sauce, 54; an alternative for avoiding the club in the roots of the cabbage tribe, 55; the Jersey cow cabbage, complaints on thé exaggerated ac- count of its capabilities, 608. CActez, increased introdtiction of, into our collections, 47. Cactus, see Céreus. Caladium bicolor and viviparum, M. Sinning’s method of cultivating, 195. Calceolaria, additional hybrid kinds of, 48; C. Atkinszana, noticed, 473. 724; C. Martineau, noticed, 723. Calystégia stpium and Tpomee%a, their corollas differ in the mode of withering, 736. Camellias, interesting kinds of, named, 211 ; the management proper to camellias when forced, 435 ; the flowers of camellias are rare and dear at New Yerk, 360. Camera lucida, its efficient service in drawing, 237. ~ Camphor useful to revive withered plants, 339. Canker in fruit trees, the effect of a bad sub- soil ; a mode of preventing it, 326; a mode of curing it when not the effect of soil, 696. Caoutchouc dissolved in pyrolignous ether preserves twine or cord boiled in it, 554; what is the mode of dissolving it ? '735. Cape of Good Hope, Bowie’s hints on cultivat- ‘ing in England the leguminous plants of, 5. Carnation, history and culture of, 428; Mr. Hogg’s carnation bloomed very satisfactorily in 1832, 593; the eminent growers of the car- nation named, 432. Carrots may be grown in soil from a morass, 56. Cassi, a drink, a method of making, 182. Castle Semple, its grounds, gardens, &c., no- ticed, 596. Caterpillars, a mode of destroying, 323; cater- pillars on gooseberry trees, a mode of checking their ravages, 370. 694. Cedar, white. See Cupréssus. Celeriac, turnip-rooted celery, hints on culti- vating, 443. Cement, Mr. Frost’s, how formed, 60. Cemetery, the plan of a general one for Edin- burgh, sketched, 362. Ceratdnia Siliqua, its frequency and uses in Italy, 269. Céreus speciosissimus, magnificent specimen of, at Dropmore, 593; another fine plant of, 80 ; a new seedling Céreus, 361. Chara, the circulation of the sap in, 143, 482. Chemistry, gardening, technical terms in, re- quire explanation, 735. Cherries, Law’s method of forcing, 439. Chrysanthemum, Chinese, the, a sketch of its history, 692. Cider, valuable information on the manufacture of, 583; cider from the French bitter scale apple, 244; the favourite kinds of apple fer GENERAL INDEX. making cider in Butleigh, and the adjoining parishes, 244; cider made in France, 357. Citrus, how can the leaves and fruit of plants of this genus be kept ftom falling prema- turely ? 736. Cloyne, bishop of, his garden, 475. Cock, Siebe’s, 370. Colosseum, the conservatories and other ap- purtenances of, noticed, 594. Colvill, Mr. James, his death noticed, 256. Cooking alembic, a, for cooking vegetables, 470. Corn, atub for weighing and measuring, 466 ; Indian corn, Cobbett’s, and a kind grown in Lombardy, 497. 750. Cottages, allotments of land to, remarks on, 529; cottages and gardens to them, 96; cot- tages in Scotland, their condition in 1831, 258. 474; directive hints for the effective cul- tivation ,of, cottage gardens, 647 ; industry and independence promoted by cottage gar- dens, 650. Covent-garden market, January 17th, 1832, 127; March 20th, 254; May 21st, 384; July 19th, 504; Sept. 17th, 624; Nov. 22d, 744; weights and measures in Covent-garden market, 374. Créme de Moka, a method of making, 182; créme de rose, a method of making, 181. Crickets, a means of destroying, 148. Cucumber, abundant produce of a plant, 81; on the advantages of M‘Phail’s pits for early cucumbers, 38; the Russian mode of salting cucumber, 183; a query on growing cucum- bers by steam, 612; queries on a species of caterpillar’ devouring the foliage of cucum= bers, 611; Mr. Oliver’s hybrid from a cucum- ber impregnated by the Maltese melon, 611; other cross impregnations, 740. C¥ycas revolita, female, has flowered in the garden of Count Harrach, at Bruck, on Leithe, and that of Wentworth House, Yorkshire, England, 448. C¥clamen pérsicum, a notice of varieties of, 94. Cypress, deciduous, American specimens of, described, 272. 276. Cupréssus ¢hyéides, the white cedar, its habits noticed, 447. Diélytra, a correction to, 368. Diospyros virginiana 80 ft. high, near Phil- adelphia, and the Americans distil an excel- lent brandy from its fruit, 272. Dividivi, the Cesalpinza Coriaria, speculations on its extraordinary usefulness and fitness for appropriation in commerce, 46. Dotting with plants, 86. Droseras, Mallet on cultivating, 684. Dry rot in oak timber, what is the best pre- ventive of? 501. y Dublin, the mildness of climate at, 364. Dumfries stone, the price of garden ornaments made of, 91. Earwigs, a means of destroying, 149. — Education, remarks on, 198. Egg plant, the purple-fruited, the only variety eaten abroad, 53. Electricity, its agency in vegetation, and a query on, 500. 740. Elms, extremely large ones in the United States, 152. Emigration, hints to gardeners wishing to emi- prate to the United States, 272; works which treat on emigration to America indicated, 464; emigration to Van Diemen’s Land, 78. Encyclopedia of Gardening, corrections to the, 83, 482, 483. Encyclopedia of Plants, corrections to the, 85. 244. 368. Eranthis hyemalis, its showiness when in large quantities, 89. Erpétion reniformis nearly hardy, 87. Eugénia australis, its beauty when planted in a bed of soil in a conservatory, 160. Eutaxia myrtifolia, on propagating, 160. Evergreens, Stuart’s mode of transplanting, Fennel is much cultivated at Rome and Naples GENERAL for its ¥oots and Jeafstalks, which are gene- rally eaten, 267. 271. Ferns, a method of raising them from seeds, 451. Feuillea cordifdlia, its fruits an antidote to vegetable poisons, 78. Ficus stipulata, effects of culture on, 689. Fig, Mr. Pearson’s treatment of, criticised, 489 ; defended, 490. 733. Filtering machines, 370. Fir, the spruce, seems not to thrive in Eng- land, why ? 503; fir timber, while full of sap, will resist fire, 488. Fleischmann, Johann Martin, a brief biogra- phy of, 255. Floors and roofs formed of earthen tubes so as to be fire-proof, 60. Floral and horticultural society : Carlisle, 626; Chelmsford and Essex, 749; Hull, 122. 635 ; Lancaster, 630.751; Rochdale, 115. Floricultural and botanical notices of new plants, or of old plants of interest, 12. 224. 345, 454. 596. 721. Floriculture, seasonable hints on, 25. 352. See also Plants. ! Florist’s flowers, a machine for transferring from one pot to another, 44; an instrument for planting tulips with, 44; a cheap frame and awning for shading beds of, 45; Hurdis’s plant transplanter, 666. : Florists’ society: Bristol, 633; Cambridge, 746; Chelmsford, 749; Deven and Exeter, Gateshead ancient, 632; Heworth, 749. Flower-garden, a design for a, with a list of plants to furnish it, 155; flower-gardens, Mr. Errington’s opinions on Jaying out and ma- naging, 562; various forms of cast and wrought iron stakes for plants in, 557. 554. Flower-pots printed on before they are baked, 475. 3 Flowers, and the flowers of spring, thoughts on, 25; method of prolonging the flowering sea- son of border flowers, 46. Flued walls at Erskine House gardens, Ren- frewshire, 670. Ely, the black and the green, a means of de. stroying, 149; flies, a means of destroying, 150. Forcing. See Pits. Transportable houses for forcing recommended, 338. Forest trees, Mr. Main on pruning, 303; Sin- clair on planting, 207. See aiso ‘T'rees. France, condition of the labouring classes in the south of, 62; notices relative to France, 356; vegetable productions of the department of L?Orne, 356; a horticultural tour through }, the Netherlands and part of France, 392. © Frauds imposed by correspondents, 289. Frost, its effects on plants in Prussia in the winter of 1822-3, 340. Fruit room, what is the best plan for ? 737. Fruit trees, the apple bug, A*phis lanigera, and lichens on, destroyable by fire, 357; fruit trees by the roadside from Griinberg to Masserwitz, 449. See Canker. Fruit wines, modes of making, 186. Fruits, the London Horticultural Society’s cata- logue of, noticed, 212; a press for crushing fruits, 544; a ladder held up by ropes for gathering fruits, 581; a machine for crush- ing, 542 ; a press for crushing, 544; remarks on the fruits used in the manufacture of perry and cider, 582. é Fuchséa globdsa Hort. distinguished and de. scribed, 598. 607. } Fumigator, a detached, figured and described, 354. Furnace, Witty’s improved, possessed by Mr. Chanter, 26. ’ J Furze tops, asa manure, 239; Irish furze, its habitat and uses, 369; furze, as a boundary fence to plantations in parks, 678. Gardener, house for a, containing five rooms and an office, adapted for being connected with the wall of.a kitchen-garden, 551; de- INDEX. 755 sign for a gardener’s house to be connected with the west wall of a kitchen-garden, 659 ; design for a gardener’s house which is to serve also for a watchtower, 660; the gar- dener’s house at Castle Semple wretched, 596; a gardener distinguishing himself, 474; an American lady gardener, 239; gardeners, young, the necessity for them to store their minds with general knowledge as well as with that of gardening, 137; prizes to young gardeners, by horticultural societies, 81; funds to be formed by gardeners for their own benefit, 83; on giving to gardeners the credit due to their employers, 85; advice to gardeners intending to emigrate to the United States of America, 272. 288; trafficking in the situations of gardeners, 499. 730; remarks on the writings of gardeners, 367 ; remarks on Mr. Mallet’s advice to young gardeners, 641; the necessity and advantages of gar- deners visiting one another’s gardens, 645. Gardening, the love for, natural to man, 239; gardening recreations as a substitute for brutalising sports, 140; gardening favourably affected by the law of primogeniture, 275, 277 ; gardening and nursery business, depressed state of, especially in Scotland, 134; the means of inspiring a taste for gardening among the fabouring classes of Scotland, 532; the condition of gardening in Ireland, 474; a catechism on gardening, 373. Gardens about Rome and Naples, noticed, 267. 271; garden of the Bishop of Cloyne, 475; gardens near Dublin, 371; descriptive notices of several gardens in England; that of J. A. Beck, Esy. of Esthwaite Lodge, 528; of Sir John Ashley, bart., Everly House, 546; of Sir Edward Antrobus, bart., Amesbury House, 547; of the Earl of Radnor, Longford Castle, 548 ; the hanging gardens of Limerick, 81; public garden at Magdeburg, a plan and de- scription of, 191. 194; Hogg’s florist’s garden, 594; Groom’s florist’s garden, 594; Zoological Society’s garden, 594; Surrey Zoological gar- dens, 594; gardens of the Beulah Spa, 594; pro- posed botanic garden at Primrose Hill, 594; gardens at Bretton Hall, July 14th, 1832, 607; gardens in the lake district, remarks on, 527; Erskine House gardens in Renfrewshire, 670 ; town gardens, a work on laying out, 373; suburban gardens, on the management of, 92 ; design for a flower-garden, for a particular situation near an old mansion, with a list of plants suitable to thesplan, 155; garden orna- ments in stone, at Dumfries, their price, 91 ; stakes, iron, for plants in the flower-garden, various forms for, and suggestions on, 555. 557; gardens to cottages, workhouses, prisons, and lunatic asylums, 96. 376; directive hints for the effective cultivation of cottage gar- dens, 647. ; Gas, ammoniacal, destruction of insects by, 41 ; the mode of applying it, 656. Gates, Telford’s iron ones described, 85; de- signs and details for opening the gates of lodges in the night time, 622. Gauntlets for lady gardeners, 37. Gentiana acailis, on growing and propagating of, 94. Georginas, on prolonging the flowering season, of, 46; seeds from flowers of one colour pro- duce plants which severally bear flowers of a different colour, 47. Germany, notices on, 358. Gloridsa superba, M. Sinning’s method of cul- tivating, 195, rs Goats eligible for introduction into New South Wales and Van Diemen’s Land, 452. i Gooseberries, censurableness of the names given to, 89; a mgde of making gooseberries into English champagne wine, 542; a method of making gooseberry wine, 181; a mill for crushing ripe gooseberries, 542; a press for crushing them, 544. Gordodnza pubéscens, 50 ft. high, near Philadel- phia, 272. 3c 2 756 Gourd, various culinary applications of the herbage, flowers, and fruit of, 185. 494; size of the fruit of some kinds of gourd in Italy, 495. Grafting, a new mode of, 540. Grape vine, hints on propagating it by branthes layed into pots, 178 ; a mode of propagating, 339; a rapid mode of raising exceHent plants of the grape vine, 577; a mode of substituting good vines for bad ones with the least possible Yoss of time, 578; on cleft-grafting the grape vine, 197; on the flowering of the grape vine, 197; grape vines trained on the outside of the alternate sashes of a hot-house produced excellent grapes, 322; the method of training grape vines at Doneraile, 248; grape vines grown on flued walls at Croxdale, 433; the kinds of grape vine best suited to the hot walls of Scotland, 184; can grape vines befoxced un- der the conditions described ? 611; the degree et hardihood of grape vines in Italy, 492; the wood of the horsechestnut makes very durable stakes for grape vines, 450 ; Lang- ford’s incomparable grape, preferably in- ereased by buds, 695; Mr. Pillans’s expe- ditious fruiting of grapes in pots, 695; a kind of beetle destructive of grape vines, 737. Grapes, how can they be ripened without fires, by the middle of September? 95; grapes ri- pened in the open air, a mode of preserving for table, during the winter months, 447; a mode of preserving ripe grapes, 339. Grass, species of, fitted, to repair lawns, 176 ; grass land, improved by coverings of loam, 448. Groom’s florist’s garden noticed, 594. Grounds, on laying out and planting, 300. Grouping of plants, shrubs, and trees, 86. Grubworm, a, affects strawberry plants, 92. Gymnécladus canadénsis, noticed, 85. 272. Harbke, plantations made at, 445. Hatching chickens in the bark bed of a hot- house, 638. ‘ y Hawthorn, a new variety, with carmine crim- son flowers, the Crate‘gus Oxyacantha 70- sea supérba, 362. 607; hedge of hawthorn }, damaged by the parasitic fungus Atcidium laceratum, 179; what plant is fitter for the formation of hedges than hawthorn? 738. Hayward’s remarks on training and physiology, 483. 653, Heartsease, the more general cultivation of, re- ~ commended, and some interesting varieties of, described, 573; the Lady Bath heartsease noticed, 94. atts Heaths, Cape, M‘Nab’s work on cultivating them, 210; Rutger’s mode of propagating them expeditiously ; 681; query on presery- ing Cape heaths from mildew, 736. Heating of air and water by lenses, M. Gauen’s mode of, noticed, 497. 69 ; conservatory and bath heated from one boiler, 90; wood pre- ferable to coal for heating, 423. Heating. See Hothouses. : Henderson, Mr. Walter, a brief biography of, 256. Herbarium, by Mr. Toward, 367. Hibiscus attenuAtus of Bosse, the character and the mode of cultivating, 447; H. figax Mart. noticed, 338. Hinge, Howden’s, for causing gates toclose, 38. Hobson, Mr., deceased, his book on mosses, 94, Hoe, engraving and description of a newly in- vented, 558; Lord Vernon’s tillage hoe, 689. follows and knolls, remarks on planting, 486. Hops, a mode of supporting them in the Vosges, 65; hop tops useful as a culinary vegetable, 184. Horseradish, a Danish and German mode of cultivating, 436. f Horticultural notes on a journey from Rome to Naples, 266. Seealso Your. _ Horticultural societies (provincial) of England and Wales: Abergavenny and Crickhowei, 635; Beccles, 634; Bedfordshire, 115. 745; Bristol and Clifton, 119. 633; Bury St. Ed- & GENERAL INDEX. munds,.119 ; Cambridgeshire, 626.745 ; Cireti= cester, 629; Cornwall, 746; Devon and Corn- wall, 627; North Devon, 748; Diss, 630; Evesham, 121; Glamorgan and Monmouth, 252. 635; Gloucester, 629; Hereford, 629, 749; Ipswich, 120. 634; Lancashire, 115; Laneaster, 751; Manchester, 115; Norfolk and Norwich, 630; Northamptonshire, 117. 631; Northumberland, 118; Oxford, 118. 632 ; Ross, 629. 749; Somersetshire, 118; Suffolk, _ 119; Taunton, 633; Taunton and West Somerset, 119; Whitehaven, 627. 747 ; Wilts and general, 634; Worcesershire, 121. 635; Yorkshire, 122. Horticultural societies in Ireland. Horticultu- ral society of Ireland, 639; of Belfast, 124. 252. 640. Horticultural Society of London and its garden, Noy. Ist,.1831, to Jan. 3d,.1832, 125.; from Jan. 17th to March Gth, 252; from March 20th to May 15th, 378; from June 5th to July 17th, 505; from July 17th to August 7th, 614; from Oct. 2d to Noy. 6th, 742. A re- port on the state of the garden from inspec- tion, 471. Horticyltural society of Prussia, 359) Horticultural societies of Scotland. Aberdeen- shire, 122. 636; Ayrshire, 122; Caledonian, 122. 252. 635; Cupar, 637; Dundee, 123; East Lothian, 123. 636; Glasgow, 637; Mic Lothian, 123; North British Professionat Gardeners’, 123. 637 ; Renfrewshire, West, 637; Stirling, 114. 124. 638. Hofticultural societies, the formation of, in the suburbs ef London, suggested, 82; horticul- tural societies should ofter prizes to young gar- deners for the objects specified, 82. Horticultural societies. See Botanicaland Hor- ticultural society, Floral and Horticultural society, and Florists’ society. : Hortus Briténnicus, additions to the Additional Supplement of, 604—607. Hot-houses, remarks on the slope of the roof of, 191; the mode, at Vienna, of constructing double-roofed hot-houses, 535; the state of the practice of constructing hot-houses in Scotland, 521; an improved mode of heating of hot-houses, 452 ; different modes of heating hot houses, 469; hatching chickens in the bark bed of a hot-house, 688; Hay’s method of heating by steam, 330. 730. Hot water, as a means of heating, 221; Mr. Perkins’s mode of circulating in hermetically sealed tubes of small diameter for heating hot- houses, &c., 236, 292—297 ; Weeks’s new appa- ratus for heating'by, 594; hot water apparatus in a pinery at the Earl of Egremont’s, Pet- worth, Sussex, the details of its action, 147. House, glazed, one adapted for the culture of peach trees, grape vines, and ornamental plants, 321 ; transportable houses for forcing recommended, 338; gardener’s house, con- taining five rooms and an office; design for, 551; other designs for houses for gardeners, 659, 660. Howden’s, Mr., reply to Messrs. Murphy’s and Haycroft’s criticisms on his remarks on Irish cottages and labourers, 369: Mr. Howden’s reply to Mr. Thomas Small’s attack on him, 248. J Hybrid plants, the sterility of, instanced, 500; hybrid calceolarias, 48; hybrid melons, 52. hybrid camellias named, 212; hybrid Céreus, 361; hybrid Digitalis, Henslow’s examination of a, 209; hybrids obtained between plants of melon and of cucumber, 611 ; hybridlaburnum, 473; hybrid plum raised by Mr. Knight, 433 ; hybrid poppy, 355 ; hybrid strawberry, 593. Insects, various, recipes for destroying, 148 ; an- nular pan as a defence against insects, 37 ; destruction of insects by ammoniacal gas, 41 ; insects infesting cucumbers, 611; insects pre- vented ascending the stems of trees, 340; in- sects are enshrined in theleaves which remain through the winter on trees habitually decidu- ous in autumn, 498, ‘ ‘ GENERAL INDEX. TIpomce\a Batdtas Poir., the batata, the results of its cultivation in Italy, 495; thoughts on its success in Britain, 613. a Jpomee‘a purptirea and Calystégia sépium, the corollas of, differ in the mode of withering, 736. Treland, notices relative to, 364; rural improve- ment in, 365; improvement of the condition of the labouring class in, 365 ; Lambert’s ru- ral affairs of, and Elles’s remarks on them, 215; the condition of gardening in Ireland, 248. 474; a list of green-house and hot-house plants which are comparatively hardy at Drumcondra, near Dublin, 568; gardens in Treland noticed, 81. 83. 371. 482. Tris, the peacock, the exquisite beauty of its _ blossoms, 469 ; Tris tuberosa, a native of Bri- tain, and a mode of cultivating it productive of blossoms, 235. Irish cottages, &c., 85. 369; Irish labourers 369; a certain Irish mansion, 372; Irish pearl moss, 94, Italy, remarks on the gardening of, 69; climate of Italy, in relation to orange trees, lemon trees, grape vines, &c., 492; certain kinds of melon grown in Italy, 613; Italian gardening and landscape reported on, 267. FenEIDS, Mr., nurseryman, his death recorded, 384, Kensington Gardens reported on, 473. Kentucky coffee tree noticed, 85. 272. Kew, the pleasure-ground at, 473. Kilkenny, a notice of the climate of, orchards of, and the kinds of apple and pear which thrive in the orchards of, 165. Kino, gum, noticed, 77. Kirschwiasser, a method of making, 182. Knolls and hollows, remarks on planting, 486. Labourers and their condition, 200; instances of letting land to labourers in Cambridge- shire and Suffolk, 98; the condition of la- bourers in a village in Nottinghamshire, 529 ; strictures on the kind of labourers to whom land for gardens is most eligible, 529; the good and evil of letting land to labourers, 377 ; of the improvement of the condition of la- bourers in Ireland, 365; the means of inspir- ing a taste for gardening among the labouring classes of Scotland, 532; condition of the labouring classes in the south of France, 62. Laburnum, a hybrid, with lilac flowers, 473. Lachenalias, hints on the culture of, 234. Ladder with appurtenances for gathering ap- ples, &c. from trees, without allowing the lad- der to rest on the tree, 581. Larch, the wood of, full of sap, will resist fire, 488 ; facts on the timber of larch, 93. Lathyrus grandiflodrus, seeds from, obtained by artificial impregnation, and other remarks on, 50. 733. a Lawns, fit species of grass for repairing, 176. Leaves persistent through the winter on trees, habitually deciduous in autumn, enshrine in- sects, 498. Lectures on botany applied to horticulture, by Professor Lindley, 580. 507. 615. Leguminous plants of Australia and the Cape of Good Hope, Bowie’s hints on cultivating them, 5. Lemon and orange trees, as cultivated in Italy and at Naples, 269. 271; their degree of hardi- ness in Italy, 492. . Lenses, M. Gauen’s mode of heating air or water by, 497 ; Mr. Mallet’s remarks on, 609. Lettuce, cabbage, Mr. Rutger’s method of forc- ing, at Shortgrove, Essex, 172. Lichens on fruit trees destroyed by fire, 357, 358. Lilium Mdrtagon, queries on, 501. Lime, chloride of, in agriculture, 445. Limekilms, and burning of lime, 741. Limerick, hanging gardens, 81. Lindley’s (Professor) publications, a retrospec- tive criticism on, 728. Liqueurs, various, modes of making, 180. Lisieux, Normandy, an account of the subscrip- tion garden at, 66, con Lock, wooden, in use in Lapland, 468. London, the plants which thrive in the smoky atmosphere of, 243. Machine, Budding’s mowing, figured and de- scribed, 34; machine for hewing stone by steam, 92; machine for preparing flax and hemp by a new and improved process, for manufacturing into canvass, cordage, &c., 96; filtering machine, 370. : M‘Naughton, Mr. Archibald, a notice of his death, 384. Magdeburgh public garden described and _illus- trated by a plan, 191. Magnolias, their great size in America, 272. Maize in North America, 75; a hardy variety of, 693; culture of, in England, 750. Mangles, portable, spoken of, 354. Mangold wurzel, the mode of brewing ale from, 697. Manure, useful to fruit trees when applied in moderation, 446 ; furze tops used as a manure, 239 ; tar used as a manure, 239. Maroschino, a kind of cherry brandy, is made from the fruit of the Priinus bis-flérens, 188. Melianthus major is almost hardy, 04. Melons, two sorts described, 191; Mr. Knight on the cultivation of the Persian varieties of melon, 435; M. Ebers’s mode of cultivating melons, 450; Mr. Smith’s mode of cultivating melon plants at Cunnoquhie,329 ; certain kind of melon grown in Italy, 613; Mr. Oliver’s hybrid, obtained from a cucumber impreg- nated by the Maltese melon, 611; M. Sageret’s experience on hybrid melons, 741 ; hardihond of hybrid kinds of melons, 52; Jacquin’s work on the melon, 453. ; Mice and rats, a mode of poisoning, 239. Mignonette, what species is that which Jesse calls the tree? 374. Mildew, a mode of preventing the recurrence of, 40. Moles, an efficient trap for catching, 298; mole trap, a French one figured and described, 36 ; a kind invented by A. F., figured and de- scribed, 299. Mowing. See Machine. Mulberry tree, the, as cultivated inItaly, to sustain silkworms for supplying silk, 496. Munich, notices on gardening at, 67. 358. Mushrooms, Mr. Callow’s, noticed, 2445; his work on producing, 214; Elles’s hints on pro- ducing, 214; the culture of mushrooms in melon beds, 312. : Nails, a mode of cleaning wall nails, 40. Naples, notes on the gardens of, 271. Narcissinean plants, the names of some rarer kinds, and hints on cultivating them, 50. Nectarine and peach trees, Seymour’s system of training, 51; nectarine trees distinguish- able from peach trees by a difference in their two germens, 469; a mode of destroying the aphis on nectarine trees, 580; Hayward’s mode of training peach and nectarine trees, 653. Neill’s, Patrick, Esq. garden at Canonmills noticed, 364, us Nelumbiums, on the culture of, 157; M. Liz beck’s mode of cultivating Neliémbiwm spe- cidsum, 197. y Nerine himilis and undulata, nearly hardy, 81., Netherlands and part of France, a horticultural -tour through, 392. J Nonpareil, a drink, a method of making, 182. Normandy, an account of the subscription gar- den at Lisieux in, 66 ; some account of Lower Normandy, 63. hoa Numbering stick, on an improved application of the notch principle, 32. Nurseries in the United States described, 272— _989; nurseries in the Netherlands and part of the south of France, 392. Nurseries, metropolitan, 101; Brown’s Bedford nursery, Hampstead Road, 102; the Mary- land Point, Stratford, Essex, 102; Epsom Nursery, new or rare plants which have flow- ered in, 102; the Mile-end nursery, 249. WEY ee 758 Nurseries, English provincial, information on, solicited, 104; an account of the Bache Pool nursery, near Chester, Messrs. F. and J. Dickson’s, 105 ; of Messrs. Conolly and Sons’ nursery, at Lancaster, 108 ; of Messrs. Skir- ving and Co.’s Walton nursery, near Liver- pool, 109; of Messrs. John Pope and Sons’ Handsworth nursery, near Birmingham, 110; Messrs. Rednall and Bircham’s Holton nur- sery, near Halesworth, Suffolk, 251; Came- ron’s nursery, Uckfield, Sussex; 741; Carlisle nursery, Messrs. William and Thomas Hutton, 741; Keswick nursery, Mr. Kerr, 742. Nurseries, Scottish provincial, of Messrs. Smith and Sons, at Ayr, Monkwood, and Colroy, 113; of Messrs. W. Drummond and Sons, at Stirling, 113; Mr. Goldie’s, at Wrightfield, near Ayr, 474. Nursery and gardening business, depressed state of, more especially in Scotland, 134. Oak, on the pruning of the, 243; oak timber, what are best means of preventing the dry rot in? 501. See Quercus. Ohio, the state of, remarks on the indigenous flowers and fruits of, 374. Olive tree, Italian means of propagating it, 68. Onions, store, a mode of preventing their sprout- ing or germinating during the winter, 55; on the transplanting of onions, 180. Orange trees, their degree of hardihood in Italy, 492; oranges and lemons, as cultivated in Italy, and at Naples, 269. 271. Orchideous epiphytes, on the propagation of, 88; Mr. Lindley’s directions for cultivating, 318; his directions for the manner of collect- ing and preserving on board a ship, 603. O'xalis risea Jac. (floribunda Lzndl.), a mode of cultivating, 572; O. Déppez noticed, 691. Pebdnia Mottan, a magnificent plant of, 473 ; the double-flowered variety of P. officinalis produces seeds, 243. Pain’s Hill, near Cobham, Surrey, noticed, 361. Palms, Choco, noticed, 79. Palo de vaco,’seeds of, 361. Paris, the condition of the markets of, in rela- tion to gardening on Dec. 20th, 1831, 65. Parmentier’s garden, near Brooklyn, North America, described, 71. Pea, Bishop’s early dwarf, its merits compared in detail with the merits of the early frame, Knight’s dwarf marrow, and the Spanish dwarf, 584; Mr. Knight’s mode of obtaining very early crops of green peas, 434; the white flowered everlasting pea, queries and inform- ation on, 610. Peach trees, Hayward’s system of training, 484. 653; Seymour’s system of training, 51; a preventive of the curling up and dropping off of the leaves of peach trees, 340; a mode of destroying the A‘phis on peach trees, 580; the Myrobalan plum tree an eligible stock for peach trees, 340; peach trees distinguishable from nectarine trees, by a difference in their two germens, 469. Pear, a description and outline figure of the Petre pear in Carr’s nursery, Philadelphia, 587; seedling kinds of pear raised by Mr. Knight, 439; remarks on the relative value for perry of the Barland and other kinds of pear, 582; monstrous pears noticed, 697. Pear trees, a mode of training pear ‘trees de- scribed and figured, 539; pear trees trained to a walJ built to an angle of ten degrees to the earth’s surface, produced an abundance of fine fruit, 183; a fungose disease on the leaves and fruit of the pear trees at Buscot park gardens, 738. Pearl moss, Irish, 94. Pelargonium zonale var. Biicheri, a fine plant of, noticed, 80; Mr. Weltje’s collection of pelargoniums, 473. Pelargoniums, a method of cultivating them, practised by Mr. Appleby, 161; another mode practised by Mr. Robert Elliot, 1625. on pro- longing the flowering season of pelargoniums in beds in the open air, 46. GENERAL INDEX. Pepper, black, a history of, 228. Perry, valuable information of the qualities and manufacture of, 582. Phzécoma prolifera, on propagating, 160. Philadelphia, nursery gardens and state of hor- ticulture at, 272. Philipsburg in Pennsylvania, North America, us capacities as to soil and climate described, Ow Physiology, vegetable, questions in, 652, 653. Pimlico palace and gardens noticed, 472. Pine-apple, Mr. Munro’s enumeration of varie- ties of, with hints on cultivating them, 177. Mr. Smith’s mode of cultivating pine-apple plants at Cunnoquhie, 328 ; the mode and re- sults of cultivating plants of the pine-apple out of pots, 576; a means of destroying the scale on plants of the pine-apple, 149; pine- apples are plentiful and cheap at New York, 360; for the reason, see p. 275; pine apples as cultivated in the stoves of Italy, 494; in the open ground of Italy, 493. Pine timber, while full of sap, will resist fire, 488 ; an account of the common Scotch and Highland pines as found in Scotland, 10; enquiries for farther information on them, 489; pine of very large size in the United States, 154; Pinus Strdbus, the Weymouth pine, its habits in Prussia, 447. Pinguiculas, Mallet on cultivating, 684. Pita de Guataca supplies*a fibre valuable for cordage, &c., 240. 367; pita de Tolu, 242. Pits planned and constructed by Mr. Hay, for the securing a steady and uniform bottom heat, 330; Pe described, and the steam appa- ratus by which it is heated, as both used at Cunnoquhie, by Mr. Smith, in the culture of pine apple and melon plants, 328; the ad- vantages of M‘Phail’s pits, 38. Plantations, thinning and pruning of, 373; plantations made at Harbke, 445. Planting and laying out grounds, on, 300; planting knolls in preference to hollows, 486 ; planting ministers to wealth, 239. Plants, new, or interesting old ones, noticed, 12. 224, 345. 454. 596.721; plants which thrive in the smoky atmosphere of the London neighbourhood, 243; a plan for removing a potted plant from one pot to another with- out injury, or breaking the ball of earth, 43; plants worth importing for cultivation in Britain, 366; on the sap vessels or circulat- ing system of plants, 142. Pleasure-grounds, defects in, and the means to avoid these defects, 151. 677. Plum, a new variety of, raised by Mr. Knight, 433; a mode of preserving ripe plums, 3393 the Myrobalan plum tree, a fit stock for plum tree, peach tree, and nectarine tree, OLVU. Polygala cordifdlia, on propagating, 160. Polygala vulgaris of different colours, 93.503. Poplar, Lombardy, facts in the history of, 92. Poppy, hybrid, between Papaver nudicaile, and P. alpinum, 355. poe oh pales, a mode of -detecting the stealers of, 42. Potato, a means of preventing the curl in, 180; a method of obtaining very early crops of new potatoes, 315; a mode of producing young potatoes for the table during winter, in the open air, 54; Mr. Knight’s remarks on the fitness ana value of potatoes as food for animals and man, and his description of his method of speedily ascertaining the qua- lities of seedling potatoes, 436; frozen pota- toes not rendered eatable by being thawed in the dark as apples are, 356; a ‘* cooking alembic” for cooking potatoes and other vegetables, 470; a mode of obtaining two crops of the ash-leaved kidney, in one year, off the same ground, 686; potato, sweet, see Ipomee‘a Batatas. Press for crushing fruit, 544. Primrose Hill botanic garden, 594, Prisons and gardens to them, 98. GENERAL INDEX. Protecting tenderish shrubs from severe frosts, | Seeds, a mode of, 189. Pruning of forest trees, Mr. Main on, 303; Mr. Howden’s opinions on pruning large trees, 559; pruning and thinning of plantation, 373 5 a pair of shears for summer pruning, 668. Prussia, state of gardening in, 187. 442; horti- cultural society of Prussia, 359, Quércus, the species of, named, which are de- sirable for the size and form and colourof their leaves, and for useful timber, 195; Quércus coccinea and rubra, notices on, 444; a variety, with narrow and occasionally entire leaves, of Quércus Adbur, 740. Rafflésia Arnéldzz Brown and R. Patma Blume contrasted, 708. Railroads in North America, 72; railway, one suggested for conveying ships overland, 354. Ranunculus, the Asiatic, remarks on cultivat- ing the, 570; Mr. George Thurtell’s show of ranunculuses briefly noticed, 631. Randnculus parnassifdlius, a mode of cultivat- ing, 572. Rats and mice, a mode of poisoning, 239. Regent’s Park, botanical and ornamental gar- den in, 470. Residences : choice of situation for a residence, 372; a work on laying out villa and other small residences, 373; in the formation of a residence, should the architect or landscape- gardener be first employed’? 673. #heum austriacum, its esculent properties, 693. R#hododéndron, a method of protecting the tenderish kinds of, from severe frosts, 189. Ribes sanguineum, a very fine plant of, 635; the Ribes specidsum described, 455. Rice, Canadian, Zizania aquatica, a mode of cultivating, 190. Riga, a short account of the gardens at, 197. Rio de Janeiro, remarks on the vegetation of, 18 Roads in Van Diemen’s Land, 78. Robinza Psetid-Acacia grows any where, and its wood applicable to various economical purposes, 191. : Rocks, an apparatus for rending by gunpowder, 591 Rods, parallel, for graduating beds, 669. Rome, notes on the gardens of, 267. Roofs and floors formed of earthen tubes, and thereby fire-proof, 60. Root, tap, of trees, effects of shortening, 339. Rosa turbinata, the Frankfort rose, is very free ef growth and blossom, 189; rose bushes, and other shrubs, a mode of protecting them from severe frosts, 189; Lawrence’s stakes for, and mode of training standard rose trees, 679. Salisbiria adiantifolia ingraftable, 445. Salm-Dyck, a notice of the botanic garden of the Prince de, 446. f se Salpigléssis, sportiveness in the species of, 47. Salt as a destroyer of weeds, 3/2; salt as a ma- nure, 373 ; salt invigorates leeks, 373. Sands, shifting, on the culture of, 444. Sap vessels, or the circulating system of plants, facts and arguments on the, 142; the circu- lation of the sap in Chara, 482; a question on the organisable property of sap, 652. Scarlet runner bean, a perennial, 53. _ Scotland, notices relative to, 474; agriculture in the West of Scotland, 513; field and road- side hedges in, 514; plantations in, 515; edgings of walks in, 518; kitchen-gardens in, 519; grass lawns in, 519; Menteath’s remarks on inspiring a taste for gardening among the, labouring classes of Scotland, 532; a notice of Auchincruive, 595; of Castle Semple, 596; Notices on the towns and villages of Scotland, $85; their waterworks, waterclosets, sewer- age, and churchyards, 389; the plan of a general cemetery for Edinburgh described, 362; the thistle of Scotland, 355; flued walls and kitchen-garden at Erskine House, Ren- ‘ frewshire, 670; agricultural and horticultural exhibition at Stirling, 113. 759 Mr. Murray on the germination and sub- sequent vegetation of, 326; the germination of seeds is expedited by applying to them malic acid, or the rotten pulp of apples, 445; M. Otto’s remarks on the germination of seeds, 196; hints on raising seeds, 5. 25; seeds of annual plants, an improved mode of rais_ ing, 434; the mode and results of sowing * seeds of annual flowering plants in autumn 570; seeds remain for many years in the earth, and vegetate on meeting with air and ght, 359, 374; on the preservation of seeds, Sewerage, suggestions on, 387. Shalder’s fountain pump, 729. Shears for summer pruning, 668. Sheds for breakers of stone suggested, 238, Soman, William Johnstone, a brief biography Co) & Shrubberies, defects in the forms of, and means _of avoiding such defects, 152. Sie, and Silkworm. See Mulberry. Slugs and snails, Martin’s mode of decovyi og t9. 3. ; hed nails, Mr. Martin’s mode of decoying, 149. 370; Mr. Corbett’s mode of destroying, 34. ‘ epider, red, remarks on, 499; counter remarks, Stakes, cast-iron flower-stakes, and some small wrought-iron stakes for peas or annual plants, 554, 557; stakes for standard rose trees, 679. Starkey, Mrs., her floral decoration of the yil- lage of Bowness, 527. Steam from dung linings, a mode of preventing its injuring plants in frames, 314; the steam apparatus applied by Mr. Smith to his pits at Cunnoquhie, described, 328 ; steam Carriages, their applicability to the improvement of land, 530; Hay’s method of heating by steam, 330. 730. Still, a figure and description of one used in making liqueurs from fruits, 183. Stirling agricultural and horticultural exhi- bition, 113. Stone, artificial, Austin’s works in, 237. Stonebreakers, sheds for, suggested, 238, Straps, leathern bearing, and wallet, 86. Strawberry, tiles made to accelerate the ripen- ing of strawberries, and to keep the berries clean, 435; a new kind of strawherry raised by Mr. Darke, at Bordesley, near Birming- ham, 593; a grub-worm infests plants of the strawberry, 92. Stuttgardt, a notice on, 358. Sublime de variété, a drink, a method of making, 183. ° Suburban gardens, on the management of, 92. Succulent plants, the structure and physiology of, noticed, 234; Mr. Hitchen’s collection of succulent plants, noticed, 244, Sugar, American, obtained from the sap of species of maple, 502. Surrey Zoological Gardens, noticed, 594. Sutton Wash embankment, 589, Swan River settlement, some account of, 78. Sweet’s Hlower-Garden, controversy on plants not hardy being figured and described in it, 87. 368. Sydney, some notice of its condition, 78. Syringes figured and described, Warner’s, 353 ; Siebe’s, 354. Tallies, brick ones, 33; a numbering-stick on an improved application of the notch princi- ple, 32; brick tallies, printed upon before they are baked, 175; directions for preparing Murray’s tallies, 374. Tar used as manure, 239. Tea plant, contributions to the history of, 89. 490, Téctona grandis, on the germination of the seeds of, 191. Telescope, Varley’s graphic, noticed, 238, Temperance societies, remarks on, 43. Temperature. See Thermometer. Temple Newsham, briefly noticed, 361, Thames. See Water. 760 Thermometer, a sentinel or regulating one, in- vented by Mr. Lindley, 30; a self-acting ap- paratus for regulating temperature, 30 ; ther- mometer for steam-pits and het-beds, figured and described, 337. : Thistle, the, of Scotland, 355, Thoinson, Mr. Archibald, nurseryman, a brief biography of, 256. Tivoli garden at Vienna described, 66. Tobacco, a mode of growing and curing for smoking plants with, 42; queries on growing, preparing, and applying tobacco, 499; re- marks on cultivating and curing tobacco, 491 ; on washing tobacco before burning it, 695. Tomate, a method of cultivating the, to make sure of ripening its fruit without artificial heat, 174; other remarks on the culture and keeping of tomatoes, 53. Tour, horticultural, the Conductor’s, in Scot- land, from Dumfries, by Kirkcudbright, Ayr, and Greenock, to Paisley, 1. 129. 257. 389. 513; Rivers’s, through the Netherlands and part of France, 392; Mallet’s, on the Conti- nent, 521; Spence’s horticultural notes on a journey from Rome to Naples, 266. Training : Hayward’s remarks on taining and physiology, 483. 653; Seymour’s method of training peach and nectarine trees, 51; Hay- ward’s method, 483. 653; a mode of training pear trees described, 539. Transplanting of large trees, Mr. Howden’s remarks on the, 559; Stuart’s mode of trans- planting deciduous trees and evergreens, 439 ; a mode of transferring a potted plant from one pot to another without injuring the plant or breaking its ball of earth, 43; Hurdis’s plant transplanter, 666 ; Jesse’s apparatus for transplanting trees and large shrubs, 731. Travelling, the equipment fittest for, on the continent of Europe, 522. Trevirana coccinea, a mode of cultivating, 491. Tree guard, figured and described, 154. Trees newly transplanted supported by pegging down their roots, 86; effects of shortening the tap root of trees, 359; Stuart’s mode of transplanting deciduous trees and evergreens, 439; Mr. Howden’s remarks on transplant- ing and pruning large trees, 559; dimensions and names of very large trees in the United States, 152; kinds of tree worth importing for cultivation in Britain, 366; shears for the summer pruning of trees, 668, Triumphal arch at the end of Piccadilly, 472. Truffle, Taber cibarium, its habits in West Prussia, 443. Tub for measuring and weighing corn, 466. Tulips, an instrument for planting the bulbs of, with, 45; a cheap awning and frame for supporting the awning for beds of, 45. Turnip, a superior variety of the Swedish, figured and described, 57; on the disease in turnips called anbury, or fingers and toes, and means of remedying it, 323. 498. GENERAL INDEX. T¥pha, its seed-down ‘proposed for stuffing for beds, 697. : Vandes, Comtesse de, the death of, recorded, 256; a walk round the garden of the late, 476; a brief notice of the garden, 361 ; and of the results of the sale of plants of, 593. Van Diemen’s Land, notices on the condition and capacities of that country, 77; introduc- tion of goats into, 452. Vegetables, a “‘ cooking alembic ” for the cook. ing of, 470; the Russian mode of preserving culinary vegetables through the winter, 184. Venice, state of the horticulture of, 448. Vermin. See Mole, and Insects, and Crickets. Versailles, a notice of the public garden at, 525. : Vinery, can one be forced under the conditions stated ? 611. ; Walks, remarks on the edges of, 86. Wallet, leathern and bearing straps, 86. 370. Walls built to an angle of 10 degrees to the earth’s horizon render apple and pear trees trained to them frugiferous, 183; flued walls in the gardens at Erskine House, Renfrew- shire, 670. Washing-machine for families, noticed, 354. Wasps, a means of destroying, 150. Water. See Hot water. Water, on preserving the purity of the water of the Thames, 464; a plan for filtering.the water of the Thames, 465; water, heated by the sun’s rays passed through lenses, 609. Waterclosets, public, suggestions on, and forms for, 389. Waterworks, Shaw’s, at Greenock, 385, Wells, fountain, their useful agency, and queries on the causes of their fountain pro- perty, 500. Wellsinkers; an apparatus for, to explode their blasts, when sinking wells in rocks, 590. West, Counsellor, his garden near Dublin, no- ticed, 83. 482. Wheelbarrow, a Norman, scribed, 238. Whin (Ulex europe‘a), the origin of the word whinstone, 369. See Furze. Wine, English champagne, a mode of making, 541; wines’from fruit, modes of making, 187. Wireworm, a query on, 499. Wood, the kinds of, which will last longest in ° the ground without rotting, 196; the proper- ues of various kinds of wood used for fuel, Woodlouse, the, is exceedingly destructive to all stove orchideous plants, 603; a means of destroying, 148. Workhouses, and gardens to them, 96, Yiicca gloridsa, the flowering of, 80. 745. Zinc, rolled in plants, a substitute for lead and slates, 60. E Zizania aquatica, a mode of cultivating, 190. Zoological Society’s gardens noticed, 594, - figured and de- END OF THE EIGHTH VOLUME. LONDON : Printed by A. & R. Spottiswoode, New-Street-Square. . Wrens "ens Sea Ms Bae his uh et SMT) N INSTITUTION LIBRAR|