LIBRARY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE V-67 The Garden.] [December 29, 1923. JOSEPH CHEAL, V.M.H. The Garden.] [December 29, 1923. INDEX TO ILLUSTRATIONS cacia Balleyana, 24f> ; Ieprosa 245; vcrticillata, 665 Acorus Calamus variegatus, 139 JEthionema amoonum, 368 ; pul- chelhim, 368 Agapanthus Mooreanus, 08 Ailanthus VUmoriniana, 574 Alpine house at Oxted Place, 468 Alstrceineria aurantiaca, 431 Alstrcemerias, a border of, 404 Anagallis Monelli Willmoreana, 478 Anchusa italica Dropniore Variety, 1, 577 Androsacelactea. 492 ; lanuginosa oculata, 203 ; longifolia ?, 263 ; sarmentosa, 254 Anemone alpina, 201 ; japonica, 348 ; Pulsatilla, 249; St. Brigid, Crowley's White, 309 Anemones, St. Brigid, 474 Anthyllis Hermannise, 371 Antirrhinums, border of, 6 Ants' nest, 153 Aponogeton distachyon, 261 Apple John Waterer, 531 Apples attacked by the Codling Moth, 516 Aquilegia alpina vera, 69 ; glandu- losa, 316 Arabis aubrietioides, 184 Arbutus Andrachne, 92 ; Men- ziesii, 471 ; Unedo, 490 Arctostaphylos Manzanita, 122, 231 ; Uva-Ursi myrtifolia, 206 Aristolochia gigantea, 398 Artemisia lactiflora, 40 Aster acris, 499 ; Pioneer, 619 ; Queen of Colwall, 647 Aubrietia on a wall, 254 Azalea, a typical Ghent, 552 ; a typical Kurume, 562 ; Daviesii, 617 Azaleas in woodland, 618 3ambusa pumila, 322 Barberries under frost, 3 Bean, Broad, the new " Sutton," 22 Begonia Eunice, 260 ; Gloire de Lorraine, 637 ; Hilda Langdon, 55, 258 ; Venus, 55 Berberis brachypoda Gibbsii, 554 ; Comet, 578 ; Darwinii, 232 ; japonica, 574 ; replieata, 186 ; stenophylla, 4, 92 ; Tom Thumb 555 Border, a herbaceous, 588 Bougainvillaea glabra, 582 Buddleia altemlfolia, 62 ; auricu- lata, 579: Colvtlel, 366; Golden Glow, 679; Moonlight, 526; variabilis, 116 Buphthalmum speeiosum, 383 Chelsea, Whiteleg^'s Tribes .it. ^77 ; AYhitelcgg's r cox, 525 ; Pheasant's Eye, in Switzerland, 137 ; triandrus, hvbrid seedlings of, 187 ; Tri- mon, 129 ; Umbria, 173 National Chrysanthemum Soci- ety's Show," Cole's exhibit at, 580 ; Luxford's exhibit at, 580 Nephrolepis exaltata, 23 Nerine Bowdeni, 612 Nerium Oleander, 427 Nicotiana alata, 43 Nymphsea stellata, 117 Nvmphseas at Market Bosworth, '534 CEnothera biennis, 507 Olearia macrodonta, 365 Olympia, gardens at, Messrs. Carter's, 134; Messrs. Gaze's, 134 : Messrs. Whitelegg's, 134 Omphalodes cappadocica, 254 Orchis X maculata, 304 ; latifolia, 304 Ornithogalum lacteum, 639 Osmanthus Delavayi, 202, 235 Oxalis adenophylla, 84 ; ennea- phylla, 242 Pachysandra procumbens, 189 Preonia Moutan. 244 Papaver orientale Lord Lam- bourne, 259 ; Princess Ena, 289 Path, a half-wild, 605 Paved garden, a, 567 ; a reader's, 569 Pea, Carter's Giant Podded Dwarf, 58 Peltandra virginica, 139 Pentstemon confertus cceruleo- purpureus, 425 ; Daydream 329 ; humilis. 425 ; Menziesii, 424 ; Menziesii Scouleri, 297 Pergola, a simple ; 592 ; at Grave- tye, 494 Phiiadelphus Coupe d'Argent ,116;. gramliflorus, 154 ; Lemoinei, 456 ; purpureo-maculatus, 396 ;. Virginal, 396 ; Voie Lact£e, 396 Philesia buxifolia, 86 Phlomis fruticosa, 428 Phlox Douglasii, 477 ; divaricata canadensis, 477 ; divaricata Laphami, 476 ; subulata lila- cina, 242 Phloxes, 40; border of, 111 Phyteuma comosum, 85 Pieris japonica, 606 Plagianthus Lyallii, 443 Plum, the MyTobalan, 109 Polyanthuses at Hallingbury, 210 ^ at Spetchley Park, 210; in woodland, 678; Munstead, 256- Polygonum baldschuanicum, 625 ; campanulatum, 603 ; compac- tum, 604 ; equisetiforme, 604 ; polystachyum, 604 ; vaccini- folium, 564 Potato, Ben Cmachen, 528; Great Scot, 21 ; King Edward, 21 ; Webb's Renown, 58 Primrose, the double lilac, 558 Primula calciphila, 97 ; chionan- tha, 57, 267 ; chrysopa, 295 ; darialica, 185 ; farinosa, 185 ; glaucescens, 236 ; Improved Giant White Star, 81 ; lichian- gensis, 208 ; Littoniana, 307 ; nutans, 306 ; obconica, Sutton's- Salmon Queen, 56 ; pubescens- alba, 649 ; pubescens Mrs. J. H. Wilson, 215 ; pulverulenta, 644 ; Purdomii, 268 ; rigida, 295 ; rupicola, 293 ; secundiflora, 268 ; Sieholdii, 208, 543 ; Silver Star, 175 ; sino-listeri, 421- ; sino-purpurea, 268 ; sphsero- cephala, 61 ; spicata, 306 ; tibetica, 104; Unique, 133; Veitchii, 209 ; vinca?flora, 538 ; Wardii, 104 ; Winteri, 99 Propagating pit, for trees and shrubs, 551 Prunus Blireiana, 172 ; Conrad- ina?, 97 ; Lannesiana Ukon, 497 ; pendula, 219 ; persica var. Clara Meyer, 220 ; serrulate* Cheat's Weeping, 220 Pyracantha angustifolia, 110 ; Gibbsii yunnanensis, 52 Pyrola uniflora, 5 PyTus Aria, 310 ; Aucuparia munda subarachnoidea, 556 ; Vilmorini, 576 Bamondia pyrenaica, 34, 414 Khodanthe maculatum alba, 67 Rhododendron arboreum, hybrids- of. 618 ; auriculatum, 539 ; bullatum, Farrer's Variety, 226 ; calendulaceum, 360 ; ciliicalyx, 120 ; decorum Mrs. Messel, 247 ; emasculum, 522 ; Exminster,. 198 ; Falconeri, 199, 251 ; intricatum, 107, 512 ; lutescens^ 207 ; maximum, 540 ; moupin- ense, 107, 522; Ne Plus Ultra, 96 ; nudiflorum, 553 ; Nuttallii^ 232; occidentale, 361, 553 ; oleifolium, 565 ; Pink Pearl, 408 ; praecox, 522 ; praevernum, 521 ; racemosum, 565 ; sutchu- enense, 159, 523 ; vlscosum, 360> Ribes sanguineum, 597 Robinia hispida, 87 Rockery, the water-side, at Market Bosworth, 535 Rock Garden, a, newly built in water-worn limestone, 65 ; at Hallingbury. 561 ; construction, plans for, 94, 132, 158 ; the "Gazeway," 163 Rose alba, 587 ; Fargesii, 590 ; Hugonis, 320, 589 ; moschata,, 587 ; moschata maculata, 485 ; rugosa, 589 ; Sweginzowii, 588 ; Willmotti&e, 588 Rose Alberic Barbier, 417, 463: America, 453; Aurora, 515; Bessie Chaplin, 369; Betty Hulton, 502 ; Betty Uprichard, 635: Clara Curtis, 635 ; Corona- tion, 593 ; David Lloyd George, 248 ; Deception, 223 ; Fred J. Harrison, 384 : General Mc- Arthur. 586 ; Golden Emblem, 586, 666. ; Helene, 533 ; Inno- cence, 636 ; J. G. Glassford, 673 ; Joan Howarth, 384 ; Joanna Bridge, 469 ; Joan Waddilove, 503 ; Lady Inch- quin, 635 : Lady Roundway, 344 ; 'Little Joe, 345 : Mable Morse, 635 ; Mme. Butterfly, 224 ; Margaret McGredy, 514 ; Mary Merryweather, 53 ; " The Garden," December 29, 1923. INDEX Rose Maud Cuming, 344 ; Mrs. Henry Bowles, 585 ; Mrs. Henry Morse, 586 ; Mrs. Tresham Gil- bey, 223 ; Muriel Wilson, 635 ; Ophelia, 177 ; Phoebe, 635 ; Richard E. West, 514 ; Sanders' White, 593 ; Shot Silk. 502 ; The Garland, 532 ; Victor Waddi- love, 515 ; Z6phirine Drouhin, 570 Rose Garden, design for a pergola and garden house in the, 591 ; plan for a pergola in the, 590 Roses, Mrs. Courtney Page's prize bowl of, 385 ; pruning, 146 Rubus australis pauperatus, 410 ; biflorus quinqueflorus, 645 Salix Bockii, 609 ; Mcdemii, li Saururus Loureiri, 233 Savoy, fasciated leaf of a, 652 Saxifraga bathoniensis, 30 ; Boydil, 147 ; Boydii alba, 147 ; ciespi- tosa, 31 ; Cotyledon caterham- ensis, 318 ; Elizabethae, 95 ; Guildford Seedling, 30 ; Haagei, 183 ; oppositifolia, 182 ; Sar- torii, 537 ; Tumbling Waters, 318 Saxifrages, encrusted, 336 Schizocodon soldanelloides ilici- folia, 422 Scilla campanulata alba, 467 Seakale, cultivation of, 653, 654 Senecio Clivorum, 341 Shortia uniflora, 182 SUene acaulis, 641 (see note on page 670), 672 ; acaulis pedun- culata, 672; Armeria, 671; Hookeri, 538 Skimmia japonica fragrans, 562 Solanum crispum, 214 Spirsea arborea grandis, 286 ; Spiraea arguta, 286 ; Aruncus, 221 ; discolor, 286 ; Lindleyana, 285, 397 ; ThunbergH, 257 Stock, East Lotbian, 29 Streamside garden, a, 145 Syringa Wilsonl, 51 Telopea speciosissiraa, 19 Terracing, plans for, 332 Thomas, Owen, 299 Thymus Serpyllura lanuginosus, 264 Tiarella cordifolia, 388 Trees, three in one, 417 Trioholaena rosea, 596 Trillium grandiflorum, 659 ; rivale, 150 Triteleia uniflora violacea, 416 Trollius asiaticus, 644 Tropaeolum speciosum, 85 Tulip Fantasy, 451 Tulipa dasystemon, 194 Tulipa Kaufmanniana, M' 1 94 saxatilis, 194 Tulips, Darwin and Cottage, at St. Asaph, 269 ; Darwin and May-flowering in a London garden, 506 ; May-flowering, 487; May-flowering, at Lowdham, 442 Vegetables, Messrs. Barr and Sons' exhibit of, 579 Verbascum olympicum, 415 Veronica Lyallii, 349 ; rupestris Treherne, 374 Viburnum Opidus fructu-luteo, 573 ; tomentosum plicatum, 115 Vine Weevil, the, 624 Viola arenaria, 435 ; biflora, 430 ; bosniaca, 436 ; calcarata, 165 ; cornuta alba, 314 ; gracilis, 176 ; gracilis alba, 242 ; hederacea, 436 ; Pride of Darras, 7 ; sep- tentrionalis, 436 Vitis Coignetise, 486 ; Coignetise, leaf of, 542 ; heterophylla, 541 ; Thunbercii, leaf of. 542 Vittadenia triloba, 374 Walling at Abbotswood, 254 Walls, sketches of dry, 200 Water garden, a, 41, 139 Water Lilies, plan of tanks for, 28S Weasel, the, 11 Welgela Bouquet Rose, 478 Wilks, the Rev. YV., I Wistaria chinensis, 387 ; nuibi- juga, 83 Yew in Crowhurst Churchyard. Surrev, 239 ; in TandYidge- Churchyard, Surrey, 239 Zenobia speciosa, 206 INDEX TO LETTERPRESS Acacias, greenhouse, 244 Acacia verticllata, 665 Achillea Lewisii, 176, 470 iEthionemas, the, 368, 481 Aloe spinosissima, 176 Alonsoas, the, 638 Alpine flower-fields, 201 ; house, the, and its construction, 468 ; house, twelve good plants for the, 649 ; meadow, making an, 624 ; plants, what are ?, 611 Alpines and their culture, 537 ; at Chisle- hurst, 69; "coddling," 61; from the Pass of Mont Cenis, 641, 648, 661 ; the fifty best, 546, 570, 582, 597, 612, 625, 665 Alstrcemerias, the, 404, 431 Anagallis Monelli Willmoreana, 479 ; tenella, 403 Androsace lactea, 492 Androsaces for the rock garden, 203 Anemone Pulsatilla, 249 ; St. Brigid Crowley's White* 227 Anemones, St. Brigid's, 309 Annuals, choice, for spring sowing, 67 ; for the blue border, 188 Anomatheca cruenta, 427 Ant, the, in the garden, 153 Anthyllis Hermannige, 372 Antirrhinum Asarina, 239 Antirrhinums, 6, 633 Aponogeton distachyon, 261 Apple Ball's Pippin, 45 ; Comrade, 531 ; Delicious, 612 ; George Neal, 505 ; John Waterer, 531 ; The Houblon, 558 Apples, bush, treatment of in summer, 307 ; the Pomeruy. 666; russet, 43; some late dessert, 190 Aquilegia ecalcarata, 349, 388 Arbutuses, the, 490 Arctostaphylos Manzanita, 121, 122 Aristea corymbosa, 60 Aristolochia gigantea, 399 Aster Aldenham Pink, 555 ; October Dawn, 555, 598 ; Snowdrift, 530 Astilbes, the, 59 Atriplex Halimus, 263 Autumn and its flowers, 499 ; tints, in berry and leaf, 621 Award of Garden Merit, the, 49 Azaleas, late-flowering, 360 Barberries for flower, fruit and foliage, 3 Beans, dwarf Broad, 22 ; dwarf French, 338 Bearberries, the, 201 Begonia Lord Lambourne, 294 Begonias, winter-flowering, 98 Berberis Autumn Beauty, 530 ; berries, 626 ; bracypoda Gibbsii, 555 ; Comet, 579 ; replicata, 173, 186 ; Tom Thumb, 555 Biennials, self-sown, 507 Birmingham Chrysanthemum Show, 602 Blossom, winter,'23 Book Reviews : Album des Orchide*es d'Europe, 630; Cassell's Guide to Gardening, 434 ; Delphiniums and How to Excel with Them, 406 ; Dwarf and Slow Growing Conifers, 402 ; Flowers : A Garden Note Book, 654, 678 ; Gardening of the Twentieth Century, 312 ; Lawns, Links and Sportsflelds, 602 ; New Zealand Native Flora, 630 ; The French Iris Conference, 614 ; The Horticultural Directory, 63 ; The Old English Herhals, 112 ; The Primulas of Europe, 218; The R.H.S. Gardeners' Diary, 670 ; Variety in the Little Garden, 434 ; Willing's Press Guide, 63 Borage Order, the, 1 Border, a successful north, 186 ; of simple flowers, 174; plants for a hot, 473; the north, 348 : white flowers for the, 39 Brasso-Cattleya Apollo var. majcstica, 227 ; British Queen, 45 ; Floss Flora, 579 ; Helen, 70 ; maculata The Dell var., 530 ; Villa Jeanne, 296 Brasso-Lselio-Cattleya Truffautiana var. Triumph, 296 Brooms, the later, 382 Buddleia auriculata, 10, 579 ; Golden Glow, 530 ; Moonlight, 530 ; nanhoen- sis, 427 Buddleias, hybrid, 679 Bulbous plants, interesting spring-flower- ing, 167 ; naturalising, 437 ; spring- flowering, 197 Bulbs, about bowls for, 568, 625 ; and how to use them, 524 ; for hanging baskets, 595 ; for pots, 395 ; for spring planting, 74 ; miscellaneous, 423, 438; notes on, 160, 187, 213, 317 ; Sir Herbert Maxwell on, 190 ; spring- flowenng for woodland and grass, 466 Cabbages and Caterpillars, 680 Calceolaria amplexicaulis for bedding, 455 ; polyrrhiza, 626 Calamintha grandiflora, 679 Calendula officinalis, 35 Camassias, the, 333, 363 Campanula Allionii, 634; calcicola, 294; Halli, 427 ; Miranda, 387 ; persicifolia gigantea Queen of June, 347 ; persici- folia Ryburgh Bells, 372 ; The King, 347 Campanulas, dwarf, 12; dwarf, for the rock garden, 400, 411 Carmichaelia flagelliformis, 347 Carnation, Border, the, 95, 119 ; Donald, 294 ; Ivan Lowe, 399 ; Mrs. Edmund Charrington, 399 ; Mrs. Groom, 372 ; Scarlet Iona, 294 ; Surprise, 294 Carnations, Border, 675 ; Perpetual-flower- ing, in winter, 87 Cattleya .Eneas var. Goliath, 530; Dr. M. Lacroze var. Excelsior, 199 ; G. P. Walker var. superba, 296 ; Hentschelii Rosslyn var., 347 ; Irene var. Our Queen, 296 ; Mrs. Gratrix, 556 ; Pitt- portia var. Lady Leon, 579 ; Prince Shimadzu var. Olympus, 296 ; Suavior Low's var., 173 ; Tagus var. Cupid, 530 Celery, 319 Celmisias, the, 9 Centaurea montana, 24 Cent pedes. Millipedes and Wcodlice, 664 Cerasus Hukon, 227 Chelsea Show, forecast of the, 258 ; official list of awards at, 300 ; sundries at, 299 ; ' the great show at, 270, 288 Cherries, flowering, 219 ; Japanese, 545 ; some ornamental, 497 Cherry stocks, 262 Chimaphila maculata, 452 Chimonanthus fragTans, 6, 36 Chionodoxa Luciliae, 432 Chrysanthemum Aldyth, 581 ; Almirante, 652 ; Brightness, 663 ; Doreen Wool- man, 531 ; Dorothea Edwards, 581 ; Elsie, 555 ; Exmouth Pink, 579 ; Felicia, 581 ; Flame, 581 ; Gigantic, 581 ; Gloriosa, 581 ; Godfrey's Gem, 555 ; Golden Marvel, 579 ; Jean Pattison, 581 ; Minstrel, 531 ; Miss Joyce Moore, 609 ; Mona, 579 ; Mrs. A. B. Hudd, 581 ; Mrs. E. Reeves, 579 ; Mrs. J. Palmer, 609 ; Mrs. Jack Pearson, 531 ; Mrs. T. Hancock, 579 ; Mrs. W. E. Catlow, 581 ; Mrs. W. Seymour, 581 ; Norman, 609 ; Norman Davis, 581 ; Pink Beauty, 609 ; Progress, 581 ; Purple Amaranth, 531 ; Purple Flag, 531 ; Radiant, 609 ; Raleigh, 579 ; Royal Salute, 531 ; September Yellow, 531 ; Shirlev Terra-cotta, 531 ; Source d'Or, 125, 151 ; The Wizard, 581 ; Tokio, 23, 36, 76, 87, 109 Chrysanthemums, early-flowering, 627 ; propagation of, 628 ; Single, 609 ; sm all- flowered, 666 : work among, 445 Cimicifugas, the, 563, 597 Cineraria, the, 162 Cirsium eriophorum anglicum, 124 Cladrastis sinensis, 399 Clematis Flammula, 297 ;* macropetala 227 ; species, 339 ; Thunbergii, 598 Clematises from seed, 611 ; garden hybrid, 327 ; on their own roots, 640, 665, 679. planting, 482 Climbing plants, 195 ; flowering, 485 CUvia Field Marshal, 149 ; Lady Holford, 149 ; Westonbirt Perfection, 149 Cloches, use of, 25 Clover as a lawn plant, 348, 374, 388 Colchicum speciosum, 431 Colour-grouping in a Kentish garden, 331 Columbines, many-hued, 316 Compost-making, in winter, 600 Cordyline australis, 47 Cornus Kousa, 490 Cotoneaster, the genus, 27, 42 Crocus aerius, 125 ; Cloth of Silver, 125 ; hyemalis, 481 ; use and arrangement of the, 77 Crocuses, autumn-flowering, 549 Cucumbers, culture of, 303 Cyclamen, culture of the Persian, 500 ; persicum Firefly, 45 Cyclamens, hardy, 447 ; hardy, in the moraine, 557 Cymbidium Alexanderi Rosalind, 121 ; Auriga, 121 ; Castor var. Laburnum, 295 ; Curlew var. Feather, 45 ; Doreen, 45 ; insigne rhodoehilum, 150 ; Merlin, Westonbirt var., 150 ; St. Andre, 150 Cypripedium Albion, Bodnant var., 556 ; Antinea, 296 ; Chrysostom Amy MooTe, 638 ; Chrysostom Chardwar var., 663; Chrysostom Richard Fort, 638 ; Dulcis Lambeau's variety, 71 ; Godefroyse var. Lencochilum, 505 ; Gwen Hannen, 638; Gwen Hannen Chardwar var. ,663; Phantasy var. Sobriety, 579 ; Prince Albert Chardwar var., 663; Prince Albert var. Mecca, 638 ; Senator, 121 ; Warrior var. H. Green, 663 Cytisus Ardoini, 488 ; Cornish Cream, 247 ; Donard Seedling, 247 ; Dorothy Walpole, 247 Daffodil, a fasciated, 250 ; Beauty of Radnor, 212 ; Dainty Maid, 212 ; Dinton Red, 212 ; Dulcimer, 212 ; Miss Helen O'Hara, 212 ; Owen, 212 ; Red Guard, 212; Red Rim. 212; use of the, 129 ; Wide Wing, 212 Daffodils, 409 ; new, 212 ; notes on, 73, 212 ; the London Show of, 211 ; the Midland Show of, 224, 234 Dahlia Attractive, 556 ; progress with the, 54 ; Sweet, 555 Dahlias, decorative, 491 ; new, 453, 480, 505, 531 ; trial of, at Wisley, 511 Daphne Blagayana, 125 Daphnes, the hardy, 255 Delphinium Advancement, 372 ; Blue Boy, 347 ; Mrs. Townley Parker, 347 ; My Lady, 372 ; Svlph, 372 ; Unique, 347 Delphiniums, the Wrexham, 464 Dendrobium Gatton Monarch var. F. J. Hanbury, 97 ; Gatton Sunray, 295 Dianthus Allwoodii Clarkson Pink, 453 ; Allwoodii, the newer, 140 ; csesius and mice, 202, 229 ; microlepis, 597 ; Napoleon III, 228 Dictamnus Fraxinella, 238 Dierama pulcherrima Heron, 399 Digging, 664 Digitalis, grandiflora, 401 Dipelta floribunda, 483 Dodecatheons, the, 287 Douglasias, the, 237 Drabas, the, 658 Earwig, the, 613 Edinburgh Roval Botanic Garden, notes from the, 136, 183, 235 Endive for winter and spring, 406 Enkianthus campanulatus, 362 Erica stricta. 525 Erinus alpinus, 279 Erodiums, the, 329 Escallonias, the, 407 Evergreens, hardy, 231 ; transplanting 408 Exhibition, British Empire, 127 Ferns, basket, 23 ; for the waterside, 369- Fertilisers, artificial, for winter use, 599 ; more about, 615 Flower-beds, harmony in, 520 Flower pots, about, 568, 625 Flowers, winter, at Reading, 81 Foliage, fragrant, 124, 151, 249, 264, 305^ 310, 336, 374 Fothergilla major, 287 Foxgloves, speckled, 373 ; vitality of seed of, 470 Freesias, notes on, 113, 169, 367, 403 'y about, 137, 228, 665 Fruits, Bush, 533 ; storing hardy, 494 Fruit tree stocks, 111, 202 Fruit trees, spraying in summer, 324 ; the after-care of, 37 ; winter spraying of, 37 Fuchsias, hardy, 237 ; in the flower garden, 406 Garden design, 544, 567, 676 ; gardens of shrubs, 594 ; herbaceous borders, 622 Garden League, the, for devastated France, 375 Garden Notes from Nice, 667 Garden, notes from an August, 410 ; notes from a north-east Yorkshire, 215 ; notes from a West Country, 456, 542 ; on designing a, 164, 179 ; round about a July, 376 ; round about a spring, 184 Gardening, in Essex, 569 ; problems of, 260 ; semi-natural, 112 ; trend of modern, 159 Gardens, plants for favoured, 19 ; " Queens," at Olympia 121 ; town, 123 ; winter, 250 Gaultheria Shallon, 663 " Gazeway," the, 163 Genista monosperma, 109 Genistas, the, 620 Gentiana Farreri, 493, 517, 545, 582 ; Hopeii, 295 : sino-ornata, 545 Gentianella, the, 501, 547, 626 Gentians, 535, 540 ; dwarf and tall, 15 Geranium anemonsefolium, 188 Geraniums, hardy, 341 ; scented-leaved,. 403 Gerbera hybrids, 171, 213 Geum Ladv Stratheden, 558 Ghent, the* Exhibition at, 216 Gladioli, among the, 465 ; in Victoria. 429, 666 ; primulinus hybrid, 137, 165, 480 Gladiolus brenchleyensis, 336 ; evolution of the modern, 379 ; Palestine, 530 ; Poppy, 453 ; Society, a ?, 517, 546, 558, 582 ; the invaluable, 103 Glasgow, the great show at, 492 Glaux maritima, 251 Gloriosa superba, 163 Gloxinias, culture of, 33 "Godfaythers," 679 Gooseberry sawfly, the, 418, 444 Grapes, the culture of Muscat, 334 ; the importance of early thinning, 233 Greenhouse, plants, new, 55 ; the cold , 322 Hamamelis, the, 660 Heath garden, plants for the, 205, 222, 239 ; in summer, 401 Heaths, low-growing, 428 ; the best late,. 488 Hedges, garden, 4 Helianthemum umbellatum, 52 Hellebores, 9 Hemerocallis, the, 646 Herbaceous plants, of a woodland garden * 383 ; propagation of, by root-cuttings. 577 Heucheras, the, 265 Holland Park Hall, the great Autum Show at, 526, 596 Hollies, evergreen and deciduous, 43P Holly, best varieties of, 17 VI. INDEX The Garden" December 29, 1923. Hyacinth, propagation of the, in Hyacinths, " Prepared " at Haarlem, 71 Hydrangea Marechal Foch, 247 ; Triumph, 294 Hymenanthera crassifolia, 566 Hypericums, shrubby, 458 Ilex verticillata, 640 IncarviUea Bees' Piuk, 295 Indiscretions, some horticultural, 607 Insectivorous plants, 458, 483, 495, 560 Ionopsidium acaule, 248 Iris cristata, 506 ; Douglaslana Merton, 247 ; Kffimpferi Pyeford Gem, 372 ; Lady Lilford, fascioted bloora of, 350 ; orchioides, 202; prices, 431, 469, 506; tenax purpurea, 248 ; Thundercloud, 319 Irises, about English, 381 ; breeding of, 359 ; clematis -flowered, 214 ; for the waterside, 357 ; moisture -loving, 143, 175 ; planting Bearded, 416 ; selection of the best June-flowering, 355 ; the Bearded, 356, 475 ; use and arrange- ment of Bearded, 353 Tsmene calathina, 68 Ivy, the ever-useful, 31 Juniperus hibernica compressa, 593 Kale and "club," 229,250 Kitchen Gardens, about an oil book on, 667 Kniphofla como3a, 9, 583 ; Royal Stan- dard, 504 Kniphoflas, the, 161, 509 Kolkwitzia amabilis, 347 Lachenalias, about, 175 ; some new 169 Lx'lio-Cattleya Aureole var. Renown, 505 ; Faust, Broadiands var., 199 ; HassaUii alba var. Perfection, 199 ; Marina var. majestica, 530 ; Mrs. Medo, Low's var., 479 ; Mrs. Medo var. Sovereign, 530 ; Mrs. Wllloughby Pembertou, The Dell var., 347 ; Nort, 173 ; Profusion, 579 Lathrsea Clandestina, 108 Lavender walk, at Oxted Place, 651 ; pruning, 679 Leeks, 319 Leptospermums, the, 343 Lettuce for winter and spring, 406 Leucojum sestivum, 280 ; nicanse, 60 Leucojums, the, 74 Ligustruni Quihoui, 530 Lilacs, the, 301 Lilies in the garden, 101, 393, 412. 440, 449 ; of a decade (1912-1922), 118 Liliuru Catesbsei, 517 ; giganteum, 625 ; Golden Orb, 347 ; pomponium, 470, 493 ; regale, 151, 597 Lime and its uses, 140 Linarias, the. 633 Ling, changing colour ?, 518, 570 Lithospermum rosraarinifollum, 61 Lunaria rediviva, 309 Lupin, the herbaceous, 105 ; the hybridist and the, 333 Lupins, scented, 457 Lupiuus arborea Light of Loddon, 319 ; Downer's Strain, 295 ; Harkness' Regal Strain, 347 Wleconopsis family, the, 170 Melons, culture of, 303 ; in frame-*, 265 Mertensia sibirica, 32 ; Mesembryanthe- mums outdoors, 60 Michaelmas Daisies: at Holland Park Hall, 556; lifting, 9; notes on, 647; thoughts on, 619 Millipede -\ 664 Miltonia Butterfly var. Empress, 296; Constance, 296 : Sanderae var. Unique, 296 ; William Pitt, 319 Miltouioda Harwoodii Ashtead Park var., 199 Mimulus Bartonianus, 362 ; the florists', 150 Mlmuluses, giant, 349 Montbretia Cecil, 453 ; Jessie, 505 ; The Princess, 505 Montbretias, the, 481 Mont Cenis, alpines from, 641, 648, 661 Moraea iridioides, 403 Moraine, what is a ? 122 Morisia hypogsea, 228 Moth, the Codling, 516 ; the Diamond- Back, 432 Mouse trap, the Colin-Pullinger, 251, 639 Mulching, on, 308 Musa japonica, outdoors, 518 Myosotidium nobile, 35 Narcissus Beersheba, 262 ; Calirrhoe, 173 ; Glorious, 173 ; Golden Empress, 149 ; Golden Herald, 121 ; Golden Sunrise, 173 ; Great Dane, 149 ; Intensity, 227 ; Mainsail, 227 ; Opera, 227 ; Prince Umbria, 173; Provost, 173; Puritan Maiden, 199 ; Roland, 227 ; Scarlet Perfection, 199 ; " White Seedling," 199 National Chrysanthemum Society's Show, 580 National Dahlia Society's Show, 479 National Hardy Plant Society, the, 8 National Rose Society, Autumn Show of the, 5()2. .".1 I ; Provincial Show of the, 384; Spring Show of the, 223 ; Summer Show, 344, 361 National Sweet Pea Society's Show, 389 Nerine Bowdeni, 612, 040 ; White Knight, 579 Nerines, 072 Nicotianas, the, 43 Nitrogen as a plant food, 386 Novelties, on the naming of, 152 Obituary : Herbert Jones, 602 ; Miss C. Tyhurst Davis, 602 ; Owen Thomas, 299 ; W. A. Butterworth, 392 ; W. H. L. Laxton. 682; The Rev. W. Wilks, 123, 138, 165 Odontioda Baroness Schroder, 97 ; Brilli- ant, 296 ; Coligne Rosemary, 121 ; Dora, 150; Duchess of York, 296; Murillo, 236 ; Naomi, 248 ; Radiant var. Majestic, 296 ; Rufus Wickham Beauty, 121 ; Seraphis var. Dusky Monarch, 296 Odontoglossum Aiglon Majesticum, 199 ; Aureola, 199 ; Aurora var. Rajah, 173 ; crispo - Solon var. Carmania, 296 ; crispum var. Esmeralda, 296 ; Desde- mona var. Rubens, 579 ; Ernest Bristow, 347 ; Fabia var. Biddy, 227 ; Gatton Emperor var. Nero, 296 ; Goldcrest, 319 ; Gorizia Imperial Purple, 248 ; Ithone, 609 ; Llewellyn, 71, 150 ; Llewellyn var. colossura, 296 ; Orosius magniflcum, 347 ; Purple Emperor, 609 ; Purple Queen, 97 ; Tagus, Gerrish's var., 248 Odontonia Corona var. Rajah, 319 ; Olivia, 296; Philosopher, 579 Oenotheras, the, 518 Olyrnpia, gardens at, 134 Ononis cenisia, 84 Orchids, hardy terrestrial, 304, 315 Oxalis floribunda, 386 ; magellanica, 196, 279 Oxalises, some, 84 Pachysandra procumbens, 189 Pceonies, the tree, 244 Pansy, a forgotten, 679 Pansies and Violas, 209 Papaver Ethel Swete, 347; Mrs. H. G. Stobart, 347 ; umbrosum, 652 Path plants, for woodland gardens, 605 Pathside, plants for the, 18 Peach, cultivation of the, 88 Peaches, flowering, 219 Pears, bush, treatment of, in summer, 307 Pelargonium, the Show, 138 Pelargoniums with beautiful foliage, 251, 279, 336 Pentstemon puniceus, 319 ; Scouleri, 297 Pentstemons, culture of, 329 ; for border and rock garden, 424 Pernettya mucrooata Bell's Seedling, 149 Philadelphuses, the, 396 Philesia buxifolia, 86 Phlomis fruticosa, 42S Phloxes, dwarf and tall, 476 ; herbaceous, 111 Phyteuma comosum, 85 Pieris taiwanensis, 173 Pinks, hardy border, 59 ; perpetual- flowering, 106, 489 Pinus Ayacahuite, 443 Plagianthus Lyallii, 443 Planting, about autumn, 523 ; " spotti- ness " in, 75, 110 Plant name3, 444, 469 Plants, about overcrowding, 179 ; for abroad. 99 ; foreign-grown, 110 ; for Switzerland, 35, 86 ; hardy, for shady places, 659 ; importation of, into Canada, 611; late winter and spring flowering, 430 ; new and rare, 45, 70, 97, 121, 149, 173, 199, 227, 247, 294 (at Chelsea), 319, 347, 372, 399, 427, 452, 479, 504, 530 (at Holland Park Hall), 555, 579, 609. 638, 663 ; some early-flowering, 95 ; some informal groupings of, 257 ; some late-flowering, 564 ; some notable, of the later summer, 391 ; that are worth a place, 610 ; the naming of, 280 ; with legends, 363, 387, 417 Plums, flowering, 219 ; some Gage. 668 Polemonium carneum, 248 Polyanthus, the, 210; the u>e of. 678 Polyanthuses, Jack-in-the-Green, 323 ; Munstead, 256 Polygonum baldschuanicum, 625 Polygonums, the, 603 Poppies, Shirley, 173 ; the alpine, 82 Potatoes, about, 154 Potentilla Tonguei. 151 Primroses, double, 583 Primula calciphila, 97, 160 ; chionantha, 109 ; chrysopa, 295 ; cortusoides and its allies,' 208; Juliee Hector Goode, 121 ; La Lorraine, 481 ; pseudo-capitata, 124 ; rigida, 295 ; Sibthorpii, 321 ; Sieboldii, 177, 543; Silver Star, 175; spliLcrocephala, 61, 124; Winteri, 350 Primulas, hardy, 185, 267, 306 ; some mareh-loving, 104, 133 Prunus Blireiana ti. pi., 173 ; cerasifera atropnrpurea Mo3eri plena, 21 ; Con- radinte, 97 Pterostyrax hispidum, 418 Pyracantha Gtibbsil, 19 Pyrethrum Harold Robinson, 319 Pyrolas, the, 5 Pyrus Aria, 310, 335 ; Aucuparia munda subarachuoidea, 556 ; earlhamcnsis, 505 Pyruse3 of the Aucuparia section, 576 Qaercus Ilex as a seaside plant, 651 Rvmimdias, the, 414 Ranunculus, old-fashioned, 22 Rhododendron bullatum Farrer's var., 227; calophytnm, 159; ciliicalyx, 121; decorum Mrs. Messel, 248 ; dichroan- thum, 319 ; Euphrosyne, 227 ; Ex- minster, 199 ; ficto-lacteum, 227 : Gilian, 227 ; iusigne, 319 ; Lady Constance, 295; ledifolium, 674; Ne Plus Ultra, 97 ; Penjerrick, 227 ; Pink Shell, 295 ; rhododactylum, 173 ; Sar- gentianum, 248 ; Snowflake, 295 ; strigillosum, 121 ; sutchuenense, 159 [;!i > 1 1 l.'ii Ii'.mh, and staid'1 manure, ;, Ml, 569, 582, 611 ; Chinese, 565 ; deciduous, 552 ; dwarf, for the rock garden, 512 ; early-flowering, 521 ; new Dutch hybrid, 279 ; small-leaved, 107 ; small or scaly- leaved evergreen, 207 ; the later-flower- ing evergreen, 539 Robinias, the, 87 Rock garden, colour harmony in the, 181, 214, 251 ; construction, 65, 94, 131 ; in a June, 313 ; overhauling the, 623 ; planting the, 157 ; some gems of the, 241 ; the, at Monaco, 73 Rosa Hugonis, 349, 374, 387, 416 Rose Alice, 503 : AUen Chandler, 385, 503 ; America, 453 ; Annie Ireland, 385 ; Aurora, 503 ; Bessie Chaplin, 343 ; Betty Hulton, 345, 385, 503 ; Capt. F. S. Harvey-Cant, 295 ; Chastity, 295 ; David Lloyd George, 248 ; Deception, 224 ; Earl Beatty, 503 ; Elvira Ara- raayo, 503 ; Etoile d'Hollande, 503 ; Fanny Oppenheimer, 503 ; F. J. Looy- mms, 503; Fragrance, 385; Fred J. Harrison, 385 ; Geraldine, 224 ; Gwynne Carr, 345 ; Hypatia, 224 ; Joan, 224 ; Joan Howarth, 385 ; Joanna Bridge, 469 ; Joan Waddilove, 503 ; June Boyd, 503; Lady Charmian, 224, 503 ; Lady Roundway, 345 ; Lady Sackville, 503 ; Little Joe, 345 ; Mabel Turner, 503 ; Margaret McGredy, 503 ; Maud Cuming, 345 ; Mrs. Beckwith, 224 ; Mrs. C. W. Edwards, 503 ; Mrs. E. J. Hudson, 385 ; Mrs. J. Heath, 503 ; Mrs. S. Paton, 503 ; Mrs. Tresham Gilbey, 224 ; Muriel Wilson, 248 ; Mussolini, 503 ; Nur Mahal, 503 ; Oliver Meer, 503; Orange King, 295; Orange Queen, 319 ; Pink Delight, 10 ; Phyllis Bide, 503 ; Princess Victoria, 335 ; Richard E. West, 385, 503 ; Sadie, 503 ; Shot Silk, 345, 503 ; Tre- vessa, 503 ; Vesuvius, 345 ; Victor Waddilove, 503 : Zephirine Drouhin growing in a wall, 570 ; the riddle of the, 616 Roses, about some new, 53 ; about weeping Standard, 592, 651 ; and Rose shows, 387 ; at Chelsea, 297 ; for bedding, 585 ; for Scottish gardens, 463 ; for the shrubbery, 532 ; modern culture of, 369 ; new, 224 ; new, of 1921, 673; November, 652; , old- fashioned, 587 ; Single, 11, 138 ; Single, for light soils, 320 ; some of the 1922 new, 635 ; the Wild, 588 ; under glass, 177 ; yellow, 666 Rose garden and pergola, 590 Rose trees, about pruning, 146 ; spraying, 229 Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund, 284 Rubi, ornamental, 645 Rubus biflorus quinqueflorus, 49 Rudbeckia purpurea elegans, 453 Salads and Saladings, 192 ; some early, 88 Salix Bockii, 609 Salpiglossis, the, 321 Saururacete, the, 674 Saxifraga Boydii, 147 ; Cherry Trees, 147 ; Cotyledon, 679; Cotyledon caterhamen- sis, 319 ; cuscutaeformis, 202 ; Faldon- side, 147; Grisebachii Wisley var., 173; Mira, 17, 48 : R. V. Prichard, 121 ; Valerie Keevil, 149 Saxifrages, Mossy, 30 ; late-flowering, 335 Schizanthus wisetonensis, 124 Scolopendrium vulgare rauricatum flmbri- catum capitatum, 556 ; vulgare ramo- ciispissimum conglomeratum, 556 Seakate, cultivation of, 653 Seaside gardens, wind-swept, 575, 611 Seaweed' as a fertiliser, 49 Sedgemere, the garden at, 534 Sedums, late summer, 392 ; the spring- flowering, 283 Seed, harvest, the, and after, 421 ; order, the vegetable, 20 ; saving, 385 Seedlings, about damping off of, 127 Seeds, and seedling raising, 643 ; " what's new " in flower, 56 Shrubbery, grace in the, 115 Shrubs, a selection of dwarf spring- flowering, 243 ; flowering evergreen, 91 ; flowering, in a West Country garden, 397 ; for bleak gardens, 154 ; for dry banks, 303 ; for foliage, 573 ; for the rock garden, 561; for town gardens, 60 ; from cuttings. 551 ; ol a midsummer garden, 342 ; of late summer, 454 ; small-growing, 106 ; some ericaceous, 606 ; summer-flow 1- ing, 365 ; twelve best, 10 ; with handsome fruits, 461 Silenes, the pick of the, 671 Slugs rampant, 557 ; trap for, 583, 640 Soils, the mechanical treatment of, 642 Sophro-Lgelio-Cattleya Eileen, 663 ; His Majesty, 530 ; Pervanch, 579 Spiraeas, the garden, 221 ; the shrubby, 285 Spraying, winter, 24 Stachyurus chinensis, 150 Stocks, East Lothian, 29, 221 Stranvaesia undulata, 49 Strawberries and Asparagus, 24, 47, 99 ; cultivation of, 362, 442, 469, 493, 506, 558 ; early runners of, 48 ; for forcing and new plantations, 376 Strawberry Boreal Giant, 531 Streamside garden, some plants of a, 145 Sweet Peas, a selection for 1923, 71 Synthyris reniformis, 1S9 Terracing, the elements of, 332 Thalictrum adiantifolium, hardiness of, 48, 86, 109, 125, 202 ; Chelidonii, 517 Tomatoes for early cropping, 468 ; treat- ment of backward plants, 350 Trailing Plants, a selection of, 93 Trees and shrubs, some novelties and recent introductions, 51 Trees, from cuttings, 551 ; summer- flowerins, 365 ; three in one, 417 ; with handsome fruits, 461 Trenching and Digging, 664 Tritellea, the, 666 Trillium rivale, 150 ; undulatum, 227 Tropaeoluni speciosum, 85 Tulip Alcamene, 248 ; La Merveille, 213 ; wild species of, 193 Tulipa Kaufmanniana, 321 ; Tubergeni- ana, 227, 297 Tulips, 451 ; Darwin, at Lowdham, 442 ; " breaking " of, and mosaic, 236 ; in grass, 445, 625 ; late -flowering, 455 ; new late -flowering white, 427 ; notes on, 4S7;ton late-flowering, 269; the breaking of, 513, 612 Vegetables, a dialogue about, 180 ; all the year round, 63 ; early border of, 113; the latest in, 58 Ventilation, its use and abuse, 45 Verbascum olympicum, 415, 493, 639; plHBniceum, 680 Verbena charasedrifolia, 152 Vermin, trappiug, 11, 36, 75 Veronica Lyallii, 349 Vinca media, 557 ; minor, 515 Vine Weevil, the, 624 Vines, common errors in culture of, 32 ; how to keep borders sweet, 656 ; orna- mental, 541 Viola hybrida Haselmere, 248 ; the genus, 435 Violas, the newer, 7 " Violettas," the, 494 Vuylstekeara insignis picta, 372 ; medea, 505 Wallflowers, double, 60 ; the old double, 8 Wall plants, 195, 631 Walls, dry, and ha-has, 200; planting dry, 253 ; suitable plants for old, 543 Water and bog gardening, 41, 80, 117, 139, 233, 261 Water Lilies, cut, in water, 362 ; hardy, 283 Whitlow Grasses, the, 657 Whv? 82 Wild flowers at country shows, 10 Willows, ornamental flowering, 131 Winter garden, colour in the, 79 Winter gardens, outdoor, 99 Wislev, an autumn visit to, 650 ; gardens at, "137 Wistaria chinensis, 387 Witch Hazels, the, 660 Woodland garden in autumn, 471 ; notes from a, 281 ; the, in spring, 135 Woodland planting, some ideas for, 617 Woodlice, 664 Yews, two ancient, 239 Yucca gloriosa argentea, 319 Zinnia, cult of the, 239 THE GARDEN ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2668. Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York. N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, January 6, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription: Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign. 17/4 ROSE ALBERIC BARBIER IN THE WILD. MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN! FOR EXHIBITION I FOR BEDS! FOR EVERYWHERE! Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. BARR'S TALL FLAG IRISES FOR PRESENT PLANTING. Awarded R. H. S. 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CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckioeds. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN. Orlior [January 6, 1923. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE Rose Specialists CIRST The Champion Decorative Rose Grower _„_ of England. FOR RELISHA J. HICKS, M.C.N.R.S., etc., OSES Hurst, Berks. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HANDY AZALEAS AND FLOWER INQ SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twerton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Qloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWK INS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Gladioli and Liliums, etc., now ready. SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. ON'S REES HAPES S GRATIS ON BROS BEDFORD LAX FRUIT IN ALL CATAUK Bushes & Trees for Sale. 'GOOSEBERRIES, Careless and Whinhams 3 years, 40/- 100; 2 years, 30/- 100 BLACK CURRANTS, Seabrook's, 2 lyears 26/ 100. RED CURRANTS, Comets, 16/- 100. VICTORIA PLUIVIS, 4 to S ft. high. APPLES, Braraley's. Newton's, Cox's, Worcester's, James Grieve, Irish Peach, 16/- dOE. : 25/- score ; all maidens, assorted or separate. RASP- BERRY CANES, Perfection, 7/0 100. Carr. pd. (pass.) c.w.o. HUGH REAM, Fruit Grower, FRIDAYBRIDGE, WISBECH. Garden Sundries CORRY 8c CO., Ltd. Shad Thames, S.E.i and Bedford Chambers Covent Garden, W.C.2 Merchants and Manufacturers of Horticultural Sundries Fertilizers and Insecticides, etc. J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening Ltd. W. H. GAZE & SONS High Street KINGSTON-ON-THAMES Landscape, Rock and Water Garden Model Gardens Portsmouth Road Surbiton J. CHEAL & SONS, Nurseries CRAWLEY Ltd. Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, i4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i &58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, StonL- Paved Paths. Grcrn 4 H.rd Courts MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- Blgned. Old Garden? Re-arranged. Plant Ing plans to- borders etc. Terms on appll cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction Advice & estimates Free. PULHAM © SON BV APPOINTMENT TO MIS MAJE5TV 71 NEWMAN 51- OXFORD 5T LONDON -V NURSERIES - EL5ENHAM 'GPAPilIC CLP for besP RockGanden CHELSEA- 1922 Plar\s s> 5urueys- Vases • fbur\tairx5 • figo res- 5ur>d fob-DC TUBS FOR SHRUBS. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak, etc. Highly decorative. — Price List from Pradal & Co 26. Goodge Street. London, VV.l. Chrysanthemums and Perpetual Carnations Select List of the Best Varieties with cultural instructions post free. KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX. VELVET LAWNS The use of Climax Lawn Sand or "Premier" . Lawn Dressing now will be a revelation to you. Nothing else so reliable. PARTICULARS AND ADVICE FREE. Garden Supplies ui i A CATALOGUE DE LUXE is not an exaggerated description of " My Garden Book for 1923." Admittedly one of the finest gardening guides published, and invaluable to all who take an interest and a pride in their garden. Secure a copy NOW before ordering your seeds. It will be sent you post free on application to ALEXANDER & BROWN, (Dept. B), Seedsmen, PERTH. SPECIALITE. PLANT NOW SPRING FLOWERING TREES AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) V. N. Gauntlett & Co , Ltd., Japanese Nurseries. Chiddingfold, Sl'RRES'. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. The Shelley Sweet Peas COLLECTION A. - 1/6 Royal Scot, Picture, King Mauve, Hawlmark Pink, E. May Imp., Elegance, Charity, R. F. Felton, Warrior (12 seeds each). FULL LIST POST FREE. T. H. 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DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15.— Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round,. ehestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for Cropping and Exhibition purposes. Thirty of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 1923. Post Free Copy on application. If interested, also ask for our Nursery List of Hardy Scotch Plants, Roses, Fruit Trees, etc. — Thyne & SON, Dept. G, Dundee. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. Special offer for this week : 1 doz. Border Carnations, to include Lady Shackleton and Sir Douglas Haig. All first-class varieties. Post free, 15/-. N.B. — Gladiolus list will be ready in January. SOW NOW—PILOT, BENEFACTOR, Earliest- of-all Culinary PEAS, 1/6 pint; Early Leviathan Long-pod BEANS, 9d. pint; Giant SHALLOTS, 6d. lb. Postage, 6d. pint; 2 pint*. 9d. — George Elsom (Dept. F), Bulb & Seed Grower, Spalding. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler i 1 >litii- and besl flav ed sort. TOOOOOD'S IMPROVED MARROW PARSNIP, largest, best shaped and most delicious in cultivation. TOOOOOD'S PROSPERITY PEA, perfectly hardy, very productive, and of superb table Quality. Write to-day, addressing as personally : T00G00D & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and Growers of " Better Cro/is " Seeds only. SOUTHAMPTON. BOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO., Ltd Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RG H . Seeds of Alpine and Rock Plants Alpine Plants acclimatized for Gardens Ask for Catalogues. HENRY CORREVON The Floraire Nurseries Chene-Bourg, Geneva (Switzerland) f No 2668.— Vol. LXXXVII.] [January 6, 1923. THE BORAGE ORDER Its Place in the Garden Scheme. THERE are individuals who will have nought to do with mass planting in any shape or form. There are others who do not believe that any plant can be effective unless displayed in large masses. The truth in this, as in many other instances lies somewhere between these two extremes. If we cast our minds back and revisualise some especially effective mass planting or wide natural grouping, we shall almost certainly find that the colouring of the group in question was on the " cool " side. Certain it is that if really " hot " colours — vivid salmons, dazzling oranges, vermilion tones or some of the brilliant rosy magentas are to be used in masses, the eye must be, as it were, led up to them by the use of gradually strengthening colour. It is, there- fore, particularly difficult to use masses of strong colour in a small garden. " What has this," it may be said, " to do with the Borage Order? " Simply this ! That this order — the Boraginaeea- — contains many of the most effective blue-flowered plants for massing and blue is a colour none too plentiful in the garden, especially in the summer garden. There are also some plants, belonging mainly to the genera Pulmonaria and Md'tensia, which are valuable for providing patches of rather quiet opales- cent colour caused by the flowers opening rosy - pink and chang- ing with age to blue. Yellow shades are found in the genus Onosma. Undoubtedly the most popular genus in the Order is that of the Forget-me-not, Myosotis. It is to be found in practi- cally every garden in the land. Some of the varieties of Myosotis dissititlora are invaluable for spring bedding. The variety, Roll of Honour, illustrated on page 2, received an award of merit in 1020. It is particularly fine, but after all, for bedding effect the cloudy mass of the easily grown Sutton's Royal Blue would be equally, if not more, effective. For producing charming masses of brilliant blue by the waterside, the Water Forget-me-not, Myosotis palustris is excellent. There is some- thing very charming and unsophisticated about the bright blue, yellow-centred flowers in rather loose corymbs. This species will succeed well in semi-shade, quite away from water, if given well cultivated ground with a good proportion of humus. There are improved forms on offer. When purchasing seed of bedding varieties of Forget-me- not, the sort selected should largely depend upon the purpose in view. The " stricta " sorts — like miniature flowering Cypresses — are most effective where " dot plant " effects are wanted, but should not be used where broad or rather cloudy colouring is wanted. There is a number of Forget-me-nots which are suitable for the rock garden, including Myosotis alpestris, which, in a damp, shady corner of the ANCHUSA ITALICA DROPMORE VARIETY MASSED BY rock garden, is, very beautiful, but the form or hybrid called Ruth Fischer is even more beautiful. M. Rehsteinert is a neat species for wet land or moraine, very much like a miniature M. palustris. M. Welwitschii is an exceedingly easy and free- flowering species which readily naturalises itself. M. albo-sericea is a scarce and rather difficult kind, remarkable for its sulphur yellow flowers and silvery silky foliage. Very close to the true Forget- me-nots is the King of the Alps, Eritrichium naiiiun, so admirable in its native mountains, so difficult and unattractive in gardens. If Forget-me-not is the best known genus of the Borage Order, the Alkanet (Anchusa) must run it very close in point of popularity. Always a valuable blue flower, Anchusa italica has been much improved during our generation. The two best known forms are probably also the most desirable. These are the rich gentian-blue Drop- more Variety and the azure Opal. A popular and desirable plant for massing towards the front of the border is A. myosotidiflora, with not specially handsome cordate foliage, but bearing masses of small azure flowers over a long period. It will tolerate semi - shade, but succeeds in full sunlight. Very closely related to the Anchusas is that glorious blue Hounds- tongue, Cynoglossum amabile, which, in- deed, might almost be described as a finely coloured dwarf and compact edition of Anchusa italica. Myosotidium nobile is the so - called Chat- ham Island Lily, which is hardy only in the south-west. Neither the robust leathery foliage nor the blue and white giant forget - me-not like flowers is very handsome. Were it not just on the border line of hardiness and rather difficult to establish besides, few would bother to WATERSIDE. gr0"' il ! THE GARDEN. "January 6, 1923. Even' gardener knows Lithospermum prostratum. though not everyone apparently can grow it, judging by the contradictory advice we receive as to its culture. Some say it needs full sun, others half-shade; some proclaim its partiality to lime, others, again, it- love of prat! The truth is that in a light, clean, gritty, lime-free loam it will luxuriate in ful! sun and grow robustly and flower fairly freely in half shade. It dislikes a heavy soil and also a sour one. It has no objection to lime but, as the foliage would lead one to suppose, has no partiality to it. It is particularly valuable in gardens where the Gentianella proves a failure, as the colouring of the flowers is almost exactly similar to that of the glorious Gentian. The variety Heavenly Blue bears to the typical plant the same relationship that Anchusa Opal bears to the Dropmore variety. It is scarcely so robust a grower as the typical plant, but invaluable none the less. With grassy foliage and conspicuously tubular soft blue flowers, L. graminifolium is an admirable rock-garden species. It is a lime-lover and seems to luxuriate in summer heat. For a sun-baked " cliff " in limy soil, the rather closer growing L. intermedium is also valuable, but it is less exacting as to soil and situation than L. graminifolium. The flowers are deep blue and it is said to be a hybrid between L. graminifolium and L. petrsum which, indeed, from its habit of growth and general appearance one would be inclined to suppose. L. petra?um (Moltkia petraa) forms a neat, shrubby- bush, which bears its purplish flowers in great profusion. It lacks, however, the glorious colouring of the two last mentioned kinds. Lithospermum purpureo-cceruleum is a native plant. Compared %vith any of those hitherto noted it is a coarse grower with long arching shoots, which take root at the tips so that, in favourable situa- tions it spreads like a bramble. The flowers when fully expanded are brilliant blue, but they open pink. The wild garden or rough shrubbery are suitable places for this species. The Neapolitan L. rosmarinifolium is only really hardy in England in the favoured west, but it is admirable for the alpine house, where it will open its azure blossoms in the dead of winter. The North American L. canescens has heads of bright orange yellow flowers but, somehow, for yellow we should rather turn to Onosma than to Lithospermum — probably because we associate the latter with some of the most glorious blues our gardens know. Now what of Onosma ? All the species are useful only for the rock garden. All have woolly foliage liable to decay in winter. It is advisable to give these plants a south aspect and to grow them in the face of the rock- garden " cliff," thus ensuring thorough ripening and in addition, draining the moisture as quickly as possible from the foliage. The Golden Drop, Onosma tauricum, is undoubtedly the most brilliant and one of the easiest. As sent out from nurseries it is often either O. echioides or a form of O. stellulatum, but small matter ! there is little practical difference between them. Onosma albo-roseum is a sub-shrubby species with really beautiful foliage. The flowers open white and turn a bright rosy-pink, so that there are always white and pink blossoms open at the same time. Another interesting family of the Borage Order is Omphalodes, of which the choicest is O. Lucilia?, about which Mr. Clarence Elliott wrote so convincingly a few- weeks back (The Gardes, December 2, 1922, page 605). Other gems are OO. cappadocica, nitida and florairensis, the last named said to be a hybrid between OO. nitida and Lucilia?. Others of the race of Borages are Mertensia, Pulmonaria, Echium and the Prophet Flower, Arnebia. Mertensia echioides is one of the best known ry lovely. The foliage is green but covered with silky hairs and the blossom " croziers " reach a height of 8ins. or oins. The flowers are a beautiful blue. M. lanceolata is remarkable for its almost blue foh'age. The flowers when expanded are also a glorious, though different, blue. Mertensia pulmonaribides (M. virginica of garden-), the Virginian Cowslip, has beautifully tinted foliage and beautiful blue flowers on iSin. -terns. THE KING OF THE ALPS, ERITRICHIUM NANDM. A FINE FORGET-ME-NOT, MYOSOTIS ROLL OF HONOUR. SOFT BLUE " BUGLES OF LITHOSPERMUM INTERMEDIUM. January 6, 1923.] THE GARDEN. BARBERRIES FOR FLOWER, FRUIT AND FOLIAGE TO-DAY we have our rose garden, azalea garden, bamboo garden and rhododendron dell. Who among the host of readers of The Garden will be bold enough to deny the possibilities and beauties of the tiarberrv garden of the future. It will be a place of interest and attraction throughout the year ! Not only are Barberries ornamental in foliage, flower and fruit, but many have gorgeous autumnal leaf-tints; while some are valuable evergreens. In others the leafless branches claim attention by reason of their colour and spines. Consider what we can do in the pleasure grounds and shrubbery Iborders with bushes of such varied foliage as Berberis iaponica, with leaves up to lift, long, and B. empetrifolia, the narrow leaves of which are only Jin. to iin. long. In habit of growth there is an equally wide variation from the diminu- tive B. Thunbergii minor and B. buxifolia nana, ift. to lift, high, and the robust luxuriance of B. aristata, loft, to 12ft. in height and iSft. to 20ft. in diameter. The introduction of many new species from China during the last thirty years has more than trebled the value of the Barberries in the garden, their most important feature being the luxuriance and beauty of the fruits of a large number in autumn and early winter. One may safely place the Barberries among the easiest of hardy shrubs to cultivate in the generality of soils. During the long spell of drought in 1921, nothing, with us, withstood the drought better than Barberries, although there were that season a goodly number of newly planted young bushes. The majority of deciduous species, having an abundance of fibrous roots, are fairly easy to transplant from October to March, when the weather is favourable and the ground in good condition for digging. The evergreen species are best planted in autumn or late spring. The only section calling for special comment is the pinnate- 8eaved B. japonica and closely allied species and varieties. Always try to have these placed in their permanent stations when young. If necessary to transplant fair-sized bushes, we find late April and May the best time. Moving with good balls of soil attached to the roots is, even then, necessary. Barberries are by no means gross feeders ; in fact ft is surprising how well many of them thrive on gravelly slopes and steep banks, where it is not possible to do much soil preparation. In these cases a spring mulch of farmyard manure is worth considering. The least satisfactory soil to deal with is that which is heavy and ill-drained. A few cart-loads of gravel, broken bricks and mortar rubble freely worked in will do much to transform heavy ground into a Berberis-growing soil. As a general rule it is a mistake to crowd Barberries when planting. So many of them have a distinctive habit of growth which gives them a beauty all their own, but which is easilv destroyed or, at any rate, largely destroyed by close planting. To bring out to the full the ornamental characters of the family, open and sunny positions must be the rule. There are exceptions, these being generally found among the evergreens. Few will deny pride of place to the Mahonia or Oregon Grape (B. Aquifolium), as the best evergreen shrub to clothe the ground beneath deciduous trees. Some shelter is necessary in many gardens when an endeavour is made to cultivate the Nepal Barberry (B. nepalensis) or Fortune's Barberry (B. Fortunei). Though hardier, the Japanese Mahonias (B. japonica and vars. hyemalis and Bealei), thrive best in sheltered, but not much shaded, positions. The fact that it has been possible successfully to introduce and speedily to popularise the Chinese Barberries is abundant evidence of the ease with which they are raised from seeds. Were further corroboration required we have it in the wealth of hybrids raised through the chance cross- pollination of the best fruiting Chinese Barberries growing in close proximity at Wisley. While the ease with which cross-pollination is effected may have its advantages, if we desire to perpetuate a particular species, unless the plant in question appears to be isolated, we must increase it by cuttings, layering or offsets (division), to be sure of true reproduction. In the same way the delightful Wisley hybrids must be propagated vegetatively for, being crosses, they will not reproduce true, though, of course, in raising Darwin's Barberry scores in the richness of its golden blossoms. More upright in habit, also evergreen, it however does not quite equal B. stenophylla for a hedge, not being so readily pruned with the shears and more difficult to keep furnished near the ground. B. Aquifolium. — Perhaps because it is planted largely under trees, the value of this Mahonia or Oregon Grape as a flowering shrub is not suffi- ciently well known. Under normal conditions it produces a wealth of yellow blossoms borne on erect racemes from March to May. These are followed in late summer and early autumn by an abundant crop of blue-black fruits, hence the name Oregon Grape. B. japonica. — This is an imposing evergreen shrub of upright habit having, in early spring, erect BARBERRIES UNDER FROST seedlings from a hybrid there is always a chance of getting something better. Taking a broad view of the Barberry family we find them possessing a distinct value for general planting in the pleasure grounds, shrubbery borders and the open woodland ; a number give glorious masses in flower or fruit when planted in wide stretches ; while others claim distinction as lawn specimens. Their value for a particular purpose and the best species and varieties can be best described by giving a short list under each heading, beginning with the — BEST FLOWERING KINDS. B. stenophylla has been aptly named the Queen of Barberries and is too well known to need a long description here. It occurred as a chance hybrid in the Handsworth Nursery, near Sheffield, about i860, the reputed parents being B. Darwinii and B. empetrifolia. Wreathed in golden yellow flowers during April and May it is one of our best shrubs to plant in large masses. As an evergreen hedge shrub B. stenophylla responds very readily to the shears to keep it neat and shapely. B. Darwinii. — This is the only rival to the last- named. It lacks the graceful arching habit, but racemes of pale yellow blossoms with a delicious fragrance. Bealei is a hardier variety with larger leaves and hyemalis a winter-flowering form. All form attractive upright-growing bushes 6ft. to 10ft. or more in height. B. polyantha. — A deciduous Chinese Barberry, the true species is a wide spreading bush 6ft. to 8ft. or more in height. During June the arching branches are laden with drooping racemes of yellow blossoms. There are frequently fifty, some- times over one hundred flowers in a raceme, and they are followed in autumn by quantities of salmon-red fruits. B. vulgaris. — The common Barberry of our hedgerows is getting rather overlooked in our desire to possess more of the exotic species. Some of the best forms, however, are unsurpassed by any of the deciduous species when full of yellow blossoms during May and again with rich red fruits in autumn. B. aggregata and the closely allied B. Prattii are distinct in having erect inflorescences freely bome at the ends of the shoots, thus shewing to the best advantage both the yellow flowers and fruits. B. yunnanensis has a rather larger flower than most of the deciduous Barberries, growing up to sft. or 6ft. in height. The clusters of yellow THE GARDEN. [January 6, 1923. flowers are attractive in early summer and are followed by salmon-red fruits in autumn. FRUITING BARBERRIES. Among these the Wisley hybrids, Autumn Cheer, Fireflame, Sparkler, rubrostilla and Sibbertott Coral, lead the way, giving us a wealth of colour and interest in the garden during autumn and early winter. These are apparently the result of chance cross-pollination between the best of the newer Chinese fruiting species, which include B. polyantha, B. subcaulialata, B. Stapfiana, B. Wilsona?, B. yunnanensis, B. aggregata and the variety Prattii. Selected forms of our common Barberry (B. vulgaris) deserve much more attention from planters. The fact that they grow so freely in the hedgerows is abundant evidence of their hardy and accommodating nature. For sloping banks, the lake-side and on the edge of the wood- land, picture the effect of bushes laden with rich red fruits in autumn and early winter ! Unlike most berries or fruits, those of the Barberries (not the Mahonias) have an acid taste which the birds do not care for. Consequently wc are able much longer to enjoy their beauty. EVERGREEN KINDS. Many of these are beautiful and interesting shrubs at all seasons, though particularly valuable and ornamental in winter. Three of the best, B. stenophylla, B. japonica and B. Aquifolium, have already been noted as valuable flowering -In ubs. In addition to the value of the last named in the garden, its use for cutting is seen on every hand in the streets of London and the suburbs. The quantity sold in Covent Garden must amount to tons every week in winter. The foliage turns naturally to a bronzy-red hue in winter but, by placing the stalks in red aniline dye, the colour changes to dark red. In the home it is most valuable for vase decoration associated, among other things, with Jasminum nudiflorum, Hama- melis mollis or Forsythia spectabilis. B. Sargentiana is a particularly free-growing and hardy evergreen, introduced from W. Hupeh by Mr. E. H. Wilson in 1907. When home recently, .Mr. Wilson said it was the only one among the evergreen Chinese species which had proved hardy in the Arnold Arboretum. The oval leaves vary from j.ins. to sin-, long 1 lin-. wide. I'.. 1 \ \ on 'i 1 \ forms a dwarf, close-gri »wing bush, usually under 2ft. in height, the leaves shiny dark green above and distinct blue-white beneath. For the front of the border or the rock garden it is .i valuable and distinct addition. I:. Gagnepainii is a graceful and interesting hrub with distinct linear-lanceolate leaves, having mi lulating spiny margins, yellow flowers and blue- black fruits. In a wild state Mr. Wilson found specimens in Western Szechuan ift. to 6ft. in height. 1;. vi rruculosa is also from Western Szechuan, .1 dwarf sturdy hush ift. to fti high with dark green leaves distinctly clustered along the twigs. A nice addition for the border of choice shrubs or the rock garden ! Autumn 1 olour is another phase with Barberries which deserves more than a. passing reference. 1 '. yunnanensis frequently di ivid crimson- ore the leaves fall. Spt 1 oration of the home are sometimes so vivid in colouring . to appear mi ial than real. I'.. Thunbergii is worthy of culture ii 1 1 month oi its brilliant yellow, golden, carlet and crimson foliage in autumn. B. polyantha 1 anothet Chinese Barberry with golden red and yellow foliage, while very similar in colouring also is B. dictyophylla. A selection for the rock garden should include B. Wilsona?, B. Thunbergii minor, B. empetrifolia, B. Darwinii nana, B. candidula, B. buxifolia nana, B. verruculosa and last, but perhaps the most important of all, B. concinna. This has the largest and most fleshy fruit of any Barberry, approaching an inch long and correspondingly thick. It was first introduced by Sir Joseph Hooker from the Sikkim Himalayas about 1850. Low - growing and spreading in habit, it has rich green leaves which are white beneath and when raised on the boulders of the rock garden, it is very distinct and interesting. In addition to the spiny character of the deciduous stems in winter, two species appear very prominent, the red twigs of B. virescens, and the grey-white stems of B. dictyophylla albicaulis. These notes would not be complete without reference to one of the most robust of all Barberries, B. aristata of the Himalayas. It is a tall and wide- spreading shrub for the pleasure grounds, attractive in flower and fruit. The variety Chitria has the flowers in panicles (not racemes) and is an equally robust growing shrub. The Kew collection of Berberises numbers about one hundred and thirty species and varieties. A. O. GARDEN HEDGES Planting and Early Treatment. A WELL cared for hedge of any kind of suitable plant adds considerably to the general appearance of the garden. During the past twenty-five years I have visited hundreds of gardens, with the main object of assisting to award prizes in competitions. Even on private visits to gardens of larger extent I have observed good and bad hedges. In the case of those entered for com- petition the condition of hedges and paths were duly considered and, in many instances, made all the difference between success and failure for the main prizes. From my youth I have made almost a hobby of planting and training hedges in field and garden. The present is a suitable time to plant new hedges or to renovate old ones, but only in special cases would I undertake the work of renovation, for patched hedges are seldom satisfactory ; it is much the better plan to plant entirely new ones. Unless the position warrants it, the building up of a bank, on which to plant the hedge, is a mistake. Where ground is swampy or naturally very sour, a bank is advisable ; also, where the hedge is required to be of a certain height and level, across deep hollows. In naturally dry places the planting ot a hedge on a bank handicaps the plants considerably in dry seasons and, always, the banks form suitable ground for coarse grasses and many- kinds of weeds, besides entailing as much labour to keep tidy as the hedge itself. A hedge with even, neatly trimmed sides right down to the level of the lawn, field or wood, always presents a pleasing appearance and, furthermore, is an effective guard to the ground enclosed. THE BEST KINDS OF PL VNTS TO FORM A HEDGE, WITH THE DISTANCES APART TO PLANT, Beech ift. apart. Berberis Darwinii . i8ins. .. „ stenophylla iSins. ,, Cupressus Lawsoniana . . ift. Holly.. ift. „ Common Laurel 1 Bins. Portugal Laurel i8ins. .. Myrobalan Plum . nt. .. Thorn 6ins. .. Evergreen Privet . 6ins. .. Thuya Lobbii , . l8ins. .. English Yew 1 Sins. .. PLANTING. Usually one finds the natural soil rich em hut. where it is dei ide lly p :, thi A HEDGE OF BERBERIS STENOPHYLLA. January 6, 1923.] THE GARDEN. is assured by adding really rich soil and also some well rotted manure. I like to put in a reasonable quantity of the latter where the soil is good, as thereby one secures a hedge full of strong shoots near the base and, afterwards, it is a very easy matter to build up a handsome hedge by timely and judicious training and cutting. The height at planting should be about iSins., as small speci- mens possessing plenty of fibrous roots, grow more quickly and, as a rule, become established sooner, than those twice that size. Privet and Thorn especially should be cut fairly hard back at the time of planting or before new shoots grow. Near grass Privet may be used, but it is undesirable where crops are to be grown quite close up to the hedge as it impoverishes the soil considerably and unduly robs the border crops. During the first year after planting the chief pains should be to keep the young plants as clean as a row of Carrots in the vegetable quarters ; to attend to watering if a spell of dry weather comes, and to firm the soil around the plants by treading directly frost has thawed and while the ground is dry. Twice, during the late spring and again in September, some cutting of the young shoots will be advisable. The hedge must be built up so that the lower branches will touch or almost touch, the ground and the hedge at the base, when fully grown, will be a few inches wider than across the top. Geo. Garner. THE WINTERGREENS THE Wintergreens (Pyrola) are one of the finest but, also, most difficult genera to grow in a garden. Few are those who can shew good patches of them in their collections and fewer still those who can grow them in the rock garden. They are as capricious as any high alpine, and seem to resist the gardener's tending. Of course the luxuriant Pyrola rotundifolia, the best of our European species, is relatively easy to introduce to the garden, and this especially in England, where I have seen large carpets of it. The plant is vigorous, makes in nature immense patches and bears splendid evergreen, leathery foliage, . shining bright green above, reddish beneath, and this is in itself extremely decorative. The flower scapes are from 6ins. to ioins. long and bear eight to thirty flowers in a terminal raceme, forming a spike similar to that of the Lily of the Valley. Hence its French name " Faux-Muguet." These flowers consist of creamy white waxen cups with orange scarlet style and anthers. They have a very agreeable scent. P. rotundifolia grows in shady woods under deciduous trees in ground rich in humus. Sometimes it is found on steep banks with a north aspect in heavy and damp soil (for instance, along the road leading to the Marchairuz path in the'Jura). It is found through- out Europe, in Northern Asia and North America. High up in the Alps the Wintergreen is Pyrola chlorantha (Sweet), which has greenish flowers, sparsely distributed along the stem, and smaller leaves. P. arenaria (Scheele) is a minute form of the type growing in the Val de Bagnes (Valais). P. minor (L.) is a rather small kind, with round leaves, shortly stalked. Its pink flowers (ten to fifteen of them) are disposed in a short spike. In this species the style does not project beyond the corolla. It grows in the woods of the mountain region. P. media (Sweet) is a very rare intermedi- ate form between the last and rotundifolia. In North America many nearly allied forms grow. P. americana (Sweet) seems to me to be only an American form of our rotundifolia (see the figure of it published in " Wildflowers of New York," Vol. I, page 196). P. asarifolia (Michx.) has reniform leaf blades, usually wider than long, and a raceme of nodding, purple or rose- coloured flowers one-half to two-thirds of an inch broad. It is a sub-Arctic species from the cold, moist woods and swamps of the north. P. elliptica (Michx.) has its leaves longer than broad, elliptical in shape and thin, with ten to twelve wax-white flowers, smaller than those of rotundi- folia but borne on a long, erect stalk. P. uliginosa (Torr and Gray) has small foliage and small pink flowers, furnished with long, slender styles ; these flowers are sparingly disposed (ten to twelve of them) along a feeble stalk. The plant is found in the bogs and marshes of North America. Pyrola secunda' (L.) is the commonest of all, and grows as a weed in the mountain, or even in lowland, forests. Its handsome, narrow foliage, but at Scampston Hall, where Mr. St. Quintin grows lots of rarities, about which I hope some day to write, it seems to me remarkably well established. He grows it in pots. The picture below is from a photograph of one of them. This curious plant grows naturally in mossy, rather light and sandy ground between roots and among old wood. Sometimes the site is very dry, or seems to be ; in other cases it is wet. One cannot give the exact conditions of its growth, as it has so many seemingly contradictory habitats. It be- longs to the flora of the northern hemisphere, is a rather sub-Arctic and Arctic plant and grows abundantly on the banks of the Baltic Sea wherever there is woodland. In North America it goes far into the Arctic regions. There is another section of Pyrolas bearing their flowers in heads instead of spikes or in umbels which has been called Chimaphila by the American botanist Pursh. They all but one belong to North America. P. umbellata (L.) grows here and there in the woods of certain parts of the North of Europe. It is to be found near Zurich in CHOICEST OF WINTERGREENS, PYROLA UNIFLORA. shining light green in colour, adorns otherwise barren places of the great woods where it always grows in dry, shady corners. Its flowers are greenish, small, disposed in one-sided (unilateral) racemes and are, of course, of little decorative value for the garden. It is, however, the most difficult of all to acclimatise, and I must confess that I never could succeed with it. Must precious of all, however, is Pyrola, or rather Moneses if we follow Asa Gray's nomen- clature, uniflora (L.). It is a dear little thing, slender and delicate, which grows Tiere and there in woodland, in damp, sandy places, never abun- dantly. The leaves are orbicular, strongly nerved, yellowish green and very thin ; the flowers are relatively large, looking as if made of creamy white wax and are solitary on little stalks. Its fragrance is among the most exquisite of all the plant perfumes. It resembles somewhat a whiff of orange blossom or the scent of the Gardenia or Tuberose. To have some of these on one's table is to provide a fragrance which it is hardly possible to better. In cultivation, however, the plant is one of the most difficult of all. Here in our dry atmosphere we never could acclimatise it well Switzerland in one little corner where it is protected by law. I found it abundantly in the Darmstadt forest in Central Germany and in some unfre- quented places in the Forests de Fontainebleau and Rambouillet, near Paris. It is a dwarf shrub, trailing upon the soil and running as does P. secunda with long underground stolons, and it makes in one or two spots very nice colonies of dark green foliage. The leaves are serrate, oblong and shining, and something like those of the Box, but disposed at the top of the stalks as are those of Polygala Chamasbuxus. The flowers, which are produced in May and June, are deep pink in colour and rather small, but grouped in little heads. It is of easy cultivation here, and wants only a moist and half-shady place in light and porous soil. P. (Chimaphila) maculata (L.) is American too, but it has been found, curiously enough, in the woods of Fontainebleau and Rambouillet as well as the species last mentii d, but in very rare instances. Its foliage is the one thing showy about it. The leaves are beautifully marbled with grey, pink and green, and are serrate. The serrations are fewer than in P. umbellata. Floraire, Geneva. H. Correvon. THE GARDEN. [January 6, 1923. ANTIRRHINUMS January Sowing for June Flowering. THERE is no longer need to commence an article on Antirrhinums with an elaboration of their claims to popularity, for the propaganda of several years past has accomplished its purpose and the charms and sterling merits of the modern race of Antirrhinum have carried it to the vanguard of popular flowers. The task of the tutor is now to impart details of cultural methods or systems that will help the amateur to attain the greatest possible measure of success, so that the vogue of the Antir- rhinum may run no risk of shipwreck through mis- guided zeal or the errors of inexperience. Thus far the Antirrhinum is a plant of rude health and vigorous constitution, singularly free from virulent diseases and irritating weaknesses, and it is of the utmost importance that it should be kept so. It is far from my desire to indulge in scaremonger- ing, for no useful purpose could thus be served, but a timely word of gentle warning may be produc- tive of beneficial results, while delay in uttering the word until the day of trouble arrives would be tragic. One of the penalties of exceptional popularity in any plant is that rapid, and more or less un- natural, methods of pro- pagation are bound to be practised, endeavours will be made to prolong the season of flowering by- various methods of treat- ment, and these things, coupled with excessive feeding, are calculated to weaken and undermine the plant's vigorous constitution and render it susceptible to disease. My plea is that whoever may handle Antir- rhinums, either for purposes of trade or for pro- duction of exhibition flowers, will be content to treat their stocks rationally, reasonably and as nearly as possible on natural lines. One essential is that propagation should be mainly from seed and not cuttings, seed being a more natural method of increase and consequently calculated to maintain a stock with m constitution. Furthermore, anything in the nature of forcing- will weaken toclc, md if i extremely unwise 1,1 hasten the growth of young plants b) gn tnem '" ■"' artifii iallj produced hi ;h b 1 | ature. In the first few weeks oi the m w year glasshouse "l!''- "" "'"' •< rush and the . -■ is to di I. iv seed sowin ; for a while and then to rush seedlings along as rapidly fire-heat in order to make up for lost timi Sui I tactics are very prejudicial to the health i : young plants and, moreover, a soit, umhih hastened growth is not capable of carrying good flower-spikes. Some few attempts have already been made to get Antirrhinum^ to flower in winter. Such efforts are only deserving of censure and condemnation. Much as we may delight to see Antirrhinums, we should prefer to do without them in the winter A BORDER OF ANTIRRHINUMS. rather than ruin them with hothouse treatment. The Antirrhinum is a hardy plant. Let us be content to keep it so and treat it as such. I saw last year a big batch of a special variety grown for seed under glass. The plants were badlv attacked by a fungus, which examination shewed to be of Cladosporiutn character. The disease, in my opinion, gained a footing simply because the plants were weakened by glass-house culture, but the seed from those diseased plants mav very probably carry the spores of the fungus and produce young stock that is doomed to carlv attack of disease and utter collapse. It is so unnecessary to resort to these unsatisfactory tactics. All that is required to ensure a fine display of bloom onward is to sow the seed early and let the seedlings grow along as steadily as possible in a house only sufficiently warmed to keep out Erosf and maintain a fairly dry atmosphere. Seed sown in January and grown cool will produce excellent plants for putting out, weather per- mitting, in April, and these will begin to bloom in June, carrying a lull crop of flowers right through the summer and autumn. The soil for the seed sowing should be gritty, with some admixture of lime. The seed should be sown very thinly, and the young seedlings should be pricked off before they become at all crowded. On all possible occasions ventilators should be opened, and when the worst of the winter is over the plants may be transferred to a cold frame. Here advantage may be taken of fine mild days to remove the light from the frame, covering at night, but even then leaving a little ventilation on. We are already getting a multitude of named varieties of Antirrhinums, and the time approaches when we shall require a Synonyms Committee or some scheme to pick out the best of each colour and to discard some of the superfluous names. As a selection of distinct and excellent varieties any of the following may be grown with confidence. Admiration. — A very showy variety with a white tube, bright coral red standard, Up and frill, with]a clear yellow blotch on the nose. Carmine King. — A brilliant carmine self of fine habit and very free flowering. Empress. — This is a very fine flower of glowing velvety crimson. The pips are of good size, and the plant is of rather dwarf, compact growth. Harmony is of tall, upright growth, producing long, upstanding spikes of bloom. The colour is a combination of rosy pink and terra-cotta with an overlay of pale yellow. .Monarch. — I consider this by far the best crimson up to date. It is an exceptionally tall grower, the stout, erect stems frequently exceeding 4ft. in height. The individual blossoms are large and of a very rich velvety crimson with dark coppery foliage. Prima Donna. — A great favourite that appeals to most people, both on account of the size and beauty of its form and the fascinating beauty of its colouring, which may be described as apricot lawn with a blush of peach pink. Of the flame or orange scarlet shades either Bonfire, Torchlight or The King are excellent, while in whites The Bride for a dwarf bedder and Queen Victoria for a tall, long-spiked variety are very satisfactory. Yellow King is the richest yellow, but equally pleasing is Yellow Queen in a lighter lemon yellow shade. A. J. Macself. THE WINTER SWEET There is always a delightful element of un- certainty about the date of flowering of that beautiful shrub, the Winter Sweet, Chimon- anthus fragrans. Dependent upon the weather, the deliciously fragrant blossoms may gladden the short November days or tarry until the brighter days of March ; all that we can be quite sure of is that the flowers will come, there is no doubt about that, for it is extremely hardy. The habit is deciduous and the plant attains a height of about 8ft., being excellent for clothing walls, as this position ensures just enough protection to enable the flowers to open early and well. The leases are deep green, rough to the touch and slightly downy when young. The flowers are solitary and borne on very short stalks from the joints of the shoots made during the previous summer ; the sepals and outer petals a curiously transparent yellow green, followed by a gourd-like seed that remains attached to the plant for a con- siderable time. Cut a few sprays from the plant when the flowers begin to expand, place them in a vase of water in a warm room and one can have no doubt as to why the plant obtained the name of Winter Sweet ; its fragrance is delicious and amply repays the ground occupied, more especially when one remembers the season at which the flowers are available. January 6, 1923.] THE GARDEN. THE NEWER VIOLAS DURING the past few seasons the , Viola has been much improved, ■ perhaps the most important advance ' being the production of a type that combines the tufted habit of the bedding strain with its free-flowering character and is capable of giving blooms large enough for exhibition purposes! In the follow-ing list are included the " cream " of the recent introductions. Andrew Gibb (Milligan, 1923). — A medium tufted habit. Free flowering. Will make a good bedder. Very large bloom. Rich cream self. Rayless. Annie Jobson (Harrison, 1923). — Purely a bedding variety. Very dwarf and compact habit. Very free flowering. An attractive colour, rich dark crimson striped and splashed with light rose. Donald Ferguson (McAlpine, 1922). — One of the largest Violas in cultivation. Perfect form and splendid under petal. Texture smooth and glossy. Deep violet blue shading to crimson purple, and distinct yellow eye. Ella L. Blair (MacColl, 1923).— A pretty blend of mauve, lavender and cream, the colours being artistically intermingled around a creamy white centre. Very good form and texture. Elma Millar (Stevenson, 1922). — A huge petunia purple, virtually an improved Milton Jumbo. It is a very fine grower and the blooms are of fine finish. Perhaps the best and largest of the dark Violas. Eddie Cook (Milligan, 1921). — Although this Viola is of rather straggling habit, it is free flower- ing. It is the best of its colour, glossy purple with upper petals shading out to pale heliotrope. Isobel McGregor (Milligan, 1923). — Very tufted habit and free flowering. Good both for bedding and exhibition. A new colour, creamy white ground marbled with pale heliotrope with a deeper edging. Jean Gibb (Milligan, 1922). — Very tufted habit. A fine bedding variety as well as useful for exhibition. It is a model flower, always of smooth texture and the purest white. Jean Marr (Stevenson, 1922). — A variety with a nice habit, giving upright blooms on long stems. Good shape and texture. French white, lightly shaded blue. Jeannie Jamieson (Stevenson, 1922). — Good habit. A very daintily coloured flower after the colour of the popular variety Mrs. J. Smith. It is a lovely shade of light heUotrope lightly suffused over a white ground. Lizzie Watson (Stevenson, 1921). — Of first- class habit and very free flowering. Recom- mended more for bedding than exhibition. Colour pure rayless ivory white, after the style of Mrs. C. Milligan. Malcolm Milner (Milner, 1922). — It is of rather straggly growth but very free flowering. When at its best it is very beautiful, but it sometimes fails in the lower petal. Deep primrose with bright sky blue edge and clear yellow eye. Petals of fine texture. Mollie Gibb (Milligan, 1922). — Medium tufted habit and very free flowering. It produces immense flowers of a lovely shade of pale primrose edged with heUotrope. One of the best of Mrs. W. R. Milligan type. Mrs. Jas. Ritchie (McAlpine, r922). — One of the finest of recent introductions. It is identical in colour with Mrs. W. R. Milligan, pure rayless white with a dainty edging of sky blue, but it is half as big again as this variety and easier to show. It has a very good habit. Mrs. Hugh MacColl (MacColl, 1923). — A large glossy cream self of fine texture and good build that seems very promising. Mrs. Andrew Kerr (MacColl, 1923). — Another good new variety from the same raiser. Of fine build, form and texture. Colour creamy white with a narrow edge of blue. Mrs. Andrew Stevenson (Stevenson, 1921). — The most sensational Viola of recent years. It has an excellent habit, perfect build and in every NEW VIOLA PRIDE OF DARRAS. way it is a flower of fine quality. The flower is rayless, a deep yellow with a heavy edging of deep heliotrope on the lower petals and the top petals are suffused with the same rich colour. Mrs. D. Stevenson (Stevenson, 1921). — A daintily coloured Viola, pure white with a clean edge of pale blue. It has a fine habit and is possibly the best flower of this class, being less inclined to sport than its rivals. Mrs. J. Terris and Bessie Ferguson. Winter the cuttings in light leafy soil. Miss Annie Morton (Macfadyen, 1922). — Dwarf habit and short jointed. Dark glossy crimson marbled with purple and rose. Mrs. Jas. McKillop (McKillop, 1922). — Good habit. Suitable for bedding and exhibition. Large bloom of a rich shade of rose and particu- larly fresh looking. Mrs. W. Penman (Penman, 1922). — A promising variety. Good habit. Very large thick-petalled flower. Rosy purple self. Margaret S. Penman (Penman, r922). — Medium habit. A very fine variety, possibly the best of the pale yellows. It is very large, of splendid shape and has extra long stems. An ideal flower for exhibition. Maggie Rutherford (Macfadyen, rg2i). — A strong grower but of rather straggly habit, still up to the present the best of its colour — rose with a soft lavender sheen. Mabel Spencer (Ollar, 1922) — A lovely colour, quite remarkable, rayless white centre with broad margins of sky blue and distinct yellow eye. It is a large flower of fine texture and the habit is quite good. Mary Cochrane (Cochrane, 1923). — A very large flower of pretty colouring, deep cream edged with heliotrope and the top petals mottled with the same colour. It is of good form and texture. Nancy Harrison (Harrison, 1921). — A very strong grower of rather straggling habit, but bearing blooms of enormous size and fin? substance. Rose ground striped with crimson purple. One of the best of the striped Violas. Nurse Stevenson (Stevenson, 1921). — Although the habit of this variety is not always of the best, it is a lovely flower of exquisite colouring, clear rayless yellow with a perfect edge of sky blue. Orange Perfection (Davidson, ^23). — A deep orange self, the deepest of its colour yet raised. It is rayless and has a fine under petal. The Jong, strong stems make it invaluable for vases. Peggy Barr (Milligan, 1921). — Of medium tufted habit and free flowering. Possibly the largest Viola in cultivation. Dark purple with a narrow edge of lighter purple. Peggy Ramsey (Cochrane, 1923). — A lovely flower of fine form and texture. The colour is cream shaded with heUotrope with a rich edging of mauve aU round. Pride of Darras (Harrison, 1923). — A very striking new bedding variety with a splendid habit The flowers stand up well above the dark foliage. They are of a lovely rich shade of deep purple, the colour gradual!}' softening in shade towards the centre tiU it gradually disappears into a white central zone. This will prove one of the best bedding varieties in commerce. Rev. Donald Grigor (Macfadyen, 1922). — A well formed flower of good texture. It is a buff yellow self, rayless, with a clean eye. Rita Stevenson (Stevenson, 192 1). — The best habit of any of the exhibition Violas. One of the prettiest varieties ever raised. It is unique in colour, pure white edged with bright carmine. Not quite the size, texture or build of Mrs. A. Stevenson, but very telling when well grown. Ronald Mason (Mason). — A variety of good habit and quite a classical flower in every respect. It has a cream ground with a broad band of Ught THE GARDEN. [January 6, 192J lavender. This Viola deserves to be more widely grown. Sarah Botham (Milligan 1922). — Very tufted and free flowering. Fine both for exhibition and bedding. Creamy white with a lavender edge. It inherits all the good points of Mrs. W. R. Milligan, from which it is a seedling. Sergt. Turnbull, V.C. (Milligan, 1923).— Tufted habit. Free flowering and an ideal bedder, also good for exhibition. Creamy white with a narrow edge of blue all round. Another beautiful seedling from Mrs. W. R. Milligan. Tangerine Harrison (Harrison, 1923). — Another fine new bedding Viola, which is aptly described in the name. It is a very striking tangerine self and rayless. Compact habit and free flowering. Thomas Russell (McAJpine, 1923). — A strong- growing striped variety which is a seedling from Sir E. Grey. It has long stems and a neat eye. It gives a large round flower with rosy purple markings on a rosy pink ground. William Gibb (Milligan, 1923). — Mr. Milligan tells me that he considers this variety the best of its colour, a glossy primrose self, perfectly rayless. It is very tufted and yet produces blooms of the largest size. William Wallace (Milligan, 1922). — Straggly habit till it becomes established. The best blooms are obtained from the side growths. It is creamy white with a band of blue all round the under petal and the top petals are splashed with the same colour. The following would make a strong all-round dozen from the above : Andrew Gibb, Jean Gibb, Mollie Gibb, Mrs. Jas. Ritchie, Mrs. A. Stevenson, Margaret S. Penman. Mrs. D. Stevenson, Peggy Barr, Nancy Harrison, Rita Stevenson, Ronald Mason and William Gibb, with Pride of Darras added for bedding purposes. Norman Lambert. THE OLD DOUBLE WALLFLOWERS It does not always follow that a plant is worth growing because it is ranked among the old- fashioned flowers which used to delight past generations. Many of these have really been superseded by choicer plants, yet there are g lly numbers which possess an intrinsic value apart from the old-world atmosphere which their traditions convey to us. Such are, I think, the old double varieties of Chei ran thus Cheiri, the Wallflower. They have not, it is true, the grandeur of some of the modern double Wallflowers, but, cm the other hand, they are more perennial, and Hi- , have a delicious fragrance which is not sur- passed by that of any of the single varieties. Some of them must have been in gardens foi many, many years, but they are now comparati\ rare. This is probably due to the fact that the; require to be propagated from cuttings, as they do not bear seeds and, although "perennial" 'lly for some years, thej in common with most of the Cheiranthuses, a comparatively short tenure of life; though ii" n- demise maj be di layed by cutting them fairly well back annualh after flowering. The cuttings strike easily in pots of sandy soil under How man} 1 I these old double Wallflo have been in cultivation I cannot say, and it is to the point to name those which are still in commerce. Oi these one of the sweetest and best is called Harpur Crewe, which, although 1 date than the departed flower-lover name it bears, was brought into renewed promi- nence by him. It has small quite double bright yellow flowers in moderate-sized spikes, and is of a most delicate perfume. A fitting companion to this is the one known as the old Double Black. It is not really black, but is of a deep blood red and has all the fragrance of the finest of our blood red single Wallflowers. It is quite scarce in gardens, and is far from plentiful even in nurseries nowadavs. Still another variety exists, and this has golden yellow flowers larger than those of Harpur Crewe. It has all its good qualities, however, and those who wish to have these double Wallflowers should endeavour to procure all three. It remains to add that these plants stand longer if planted in poor, dry, but firm soil and in a sunny situation. S. Arxott. NOTES OF THE WEEK IN wishing all readers of The Garden a very happy and prosperous New Year, the Editor begs to call attention to the Contents Table on page iii, at the beginning of the paper. This feature will be included in future issues and should facilitate subsequent reference to articles of which no note was made at the time of reading. It will not, of course, supersede the Index, which is given with the last issue of each volume. The Hardy Plant Society. — Many readers will, we are sure, rejoice to hear of the renewed activity of the National Hardy Plant Society. Formed in 1910, it was just fully embarked on a programme of useful work when war cut short its activities. Nursery stocks of herbaceous and alpine plants which are the " lines " in which, at present, the Society specialises, are back at normal and there is no reason whatever why it should not do great things. It is felt that either the Chairman or Secretary of the Society should reside in or near London and an effort is to be made to carry this feeling into effect. A special committee has been appointed and will report to the annual general meeting of the Society on the 30th inst., suggesting various alterations to the " objects, rules and bye-laws " of the Society, to bring them into touch with present day feeling. It will also lay before the meeting a programme of work for the coming season, which will include the is^ue of a journal at intervals. All lovers of hardy plants who reside within reach of London should make a point of attending the meeting, which will be held at the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall, Vincent Square. Membership of the Society can be obtained for an annual subscription oi 7s. 6d., and everyone interested in hardy plants — not only those who are interested in them for exhibition — should make a point of joining at once. The Hardy Plant Society is affiliated to the Royal Horticultural Society and is in no way intended to be a competitor to that august body or indeed to any other established horticultural society. Your 7s. 6d. now, so that the Society, which has at present ^40 or so in hand, can map out its programme for 1923, will be worth 15s. subscribed after the meeting. The Secretary's address is Dactylis, Clifton Park Road, Caversham, Reading. The Seed Order. — Many enthusiastic amateur gardeners spent odd hours of the Christmas holiday digesting (and enjoying) the handsome new editions of the big seedsmen's catalogues. Not all flower lovers are quite so enthu-i as that, but it behoves every keen gardener mow to look into the matter of this year's seeds. It i~ advantageous both to buyer and seller that orders should be placed early. The benefit to the seedsman is obvious. The buyer gets the advantage uring just what he wants — not what the seller has left — and prompt delivery. The Picture. — Of all winter-blooming flowers, none is more beautiful than Cyclamen hyemale, which is often sold as C. Coum, but is readily differentiated by the white marbling on the foliage. The true Cyclamen Coum is a less common species with foliage of a uniform black-green, but the mottling of the species illustrated is at once effec- tive and cheerful. Hardy Cyclamens are quite easy to raise from seed. The treatment is similar t" tli. it usually afforded to the Persian (greenhouse) Cyclamen. A FINE CLUMP OF CYCLAMEN HYEMALE. January 6, 1923.] THE GARDEN. CORRESPONDENCE LIFTING MICHAELMAS DAISIES. TN his most interesting article on Michaelmas Daisies the Rev. Joseph Jacob (December 2, 1922) asks if they can be flowered in pots. They can be most successfully grown that way. For several vears I used to grow them here for the autumn decoration of a long glass corridor. My method was, about February, to put an old plant of each variety wanted in a cool house, just covering the plants with any light soil. As soon as the young shoots had grown sufficiently they were taken off and put singly in 3in. pots, stood in a propagating frame until rooted, after which they were placed in a cold frame until weather conditions allowed their being planted out. An open spot in the kitchen garden was given them for the summer months. Care was taken to keep them to single stems, and also securely tied. If this is not done and they are allowed to fall over and the stems to stiffen, it is almost impossible to get them up again into nice-shaped plants. Towards autumn, just as buds began to shew, they were carefully lifted and potted into 8in. or loin, pots, according to size. They were then stood behind a north wall and frequently damped over with the syringe until the roots had taken hold of the soil, when they were given a more open position until the flowers began to shew colour. They were then placed in the corridor, where for three weeks or a month they bloomed profusely. I noticed the colours were not quite so bright under glass as outside. On the other hand, the outside plants often had a most sorry, bedraggled appearance owing to wind and rain. It was a pleasure then to see the bright, clean look of the inside ones. — H. Reynolds, Gl. Yarmouth. AN UNUSUAL TORCH LILY. A S one strolls around other gardens it sometimes happens that one comes across a plant which fascinates by its own peculiar qualities. One feels that one simply must possess it and — in this connexion — I have fallen a victim to Kniphofia comosa, one of the most unusual and distinct of all the Red Hot Pokers. The plant is of good habit with rather narrow, pale green foliage and tall, thin flower-stems, most of which push out a small subsidiary spike from the side so that, when the main inflorescence is past, a further period of usefulness is still contributed by the main stem. The flowers are in the form of a short bottlebrush-like head of a brilliant carmine orange colour that glows with a wonderful firelight sheen which, in spite of their small size, stands out well right across the garden. The manner in which the buds open reverses the usual procedure of these plants, for they begin to open from the top of the spike instead of the bottom, until the whole is expanded at once. There is something about the flowers that proves a tremendous attrac- tion to the bees, each spike is always swarming with them ; but whether this attraction takes the form of nectar or of the pollen masses which are so prominent on the anthers, it is difficult to decide. In common with the rest of its race, the plant loves a sunny position and protection from cold winds, while the soil should be light and rich and freely drained. — Croydonia. THE CELMIS1AS. T AM the happy possessor of a cottage in the back blocks of our New Zealand Southern Alps, in the Canterbury district. It is at an altitude of 2,600ft. In holidays spent there I have almost unique chances of mountain climbing and plant hunting. The neighbouring heights range to 7,000ft. I have written before of Raoulia eximia and Notothlaspi (Penwiper plant), both growing in those parts, but there are many other queer plants. One of the most prolific and various is the Celmisia, or Mountain Daisy. The smallest has thin, grass-like leaves and a flower about as big as sixpence, and the largest is an erect rosette of broad, sheath-like, silvery grey leaves, with place where the Edelweiss and Raoulia eximia cushions begin, a limit of about 5,000ft. — Mary Poulton, Shirley, Christchurch, New Zealand. CHRISTMAS ROSES. TN reference to the interesting article on Christmas Roses in the issue of December 23, 1922, it might be mentioned that it is of great importance to get a good strain if specially fine and very white blooms are desired. The writer has three strains in flower at the present moment, and one of these CHRISTMAS ROSES AMONG FERNS. tall, woolly-stemmed flowers several inches in diameter. Some grow in trails of tight rosettes, forming silvery or green cushions, according to variety. The silvery ones have slender-stemmed flowers, the buds covered in tight hard covers. The green cushions have their buds covered with rough hairy lids, which are really prettier than the full-blown Daisy. All the varieties have white blooms with yellow centres. The leaves are almost always covered underneath with a woolly felt varying from rust colour to white. The young leaves are woolly all over. As they grow older the felt on top changes to a thin silvery skin. The reason given is that, as they are subject to extremes of heat and cold, the felt is useful to absorb water when the ground is frozen too hard for the roots to supply the plants with the necessary amount, and the thin skin is to keep the plants from transpiring too much in the hot summer. I have climbed mountains through acres and acres of Daisies, one variety succeeding another. The slender grassy one, C. longifolia, grows in the sub- alpine district for fancy — not necessity like most of them — because it will grow anywhere down to sea-level. This is the lowest grower. Then comes the common Mountain Daisy with flowers about 2ins. across, C. Traversii, followed by the huge C. coriacea, with its silver leaves and blossoms .lins. or jins. across, not so common. Highi 1 still the trailing cushions of C. argentea and the green cushions of, I think, C. Haastii ; but if anyone would like seed of these, they are welcome if I have any luck collecting next season. It should be a good one, as there was almost no bloom last season, and I will see that the varieties are named rightly. The cushions grow up to the produces much larger and much whiter flowers than the other two. It was a gift, described as a specially good form and said to be known as Helleborus niger maximus. It is certainly larger in every way, including the foliage and the longer flower scapes which hold the blossoms up par- ticularly well. The picture illustrating the article does not appear to be taken from this form, although it is difficult to be certain. The other two kinds, although charming also in their way, do not grow so freely and their flowers have a decided tinge of pink on the exterior. Miss Hope, in a gardening book which does not seem much read nowadays, gives many hints as to propagation and cultivation, and also mentions this fine kind as Helleborus niger major, or maximus or grandi- florus. The article in The Garden, although dealing admirably with the planting, does not mention what appears to be the most important point in their cultivation, especially on dry soils — care of the plants directly after flowering until they have finished making their new foliage. This would consist in giving them a good top-dressing and mulching of well rotted manure or even leaf- mould, with copious waterings, if the weather is at all dry (which it very often is at that time of the Year, particularly in the month of May). Amateurs often say they find it difficult to grow and flower Christmas Roses well, and their failure is probably always due to neglect of these attentions. In a very dry autumn, such as the last, an occasional watering will help to lengthen the flower stalks and produce earlier blooms. Christmas Rom really quite easy to grow satisfactorily, and can be moved and divided at almost any season if attention is paid to watering afterwards. The plant 10 THE GARDEN. [January 6, 1923. grows naturally among bushes and, like most semi- woodland plants, dislikes ever getting very dry. Perhaps it never looks so well and happy as when planted among nut bushes, as described by Miss Jekyll ; these give the combination of sunshine and shelter from cold winds in spring with the shade from hot summer suns, which exactly suits these delightful winter-flowering plants. — A. E. W. ROSE PINK DELIGHT. T.\ reply to " H. G.," this is a beautiful single Rose of the Rambler type. It is a splendid variety, not a rampant grower, usually 6ft. shoots. With me the colour is deeper than pink, more like carmine and very bright. The trusses of bloom are quite different from the illustration in The Garden of December 2. From catalogues I notice it can be had from Messrs. S. McGredy and Son, J. R. Pearson and Sons, Limited, or Mr. J. C. Allgrove. — John Malcolm. [Our correspondent's enquiry was about a dwarf Polyantha Rose, and the variety mentioned, Laxton's Pink Delight, was, it turned out, the sort which he had been recommended. — Ed.] TWELVE BEST SHRUBS. T ALSO have been very interested in the lists of the twelve best shrubs published in The Garden. I should like to add a list of some which do splendidly here in South-West Sussex. We have a light soil with peat in places, and the shrub garden is well sheltered from the north and east by plantations of Spruce, Larch and Scotch Fir. We are about 500ft. above sea-level. Grevillea rosmarinifolia, fine large bush ; Eucryphia pinnati- folia, 10ft. high ; Abutilon megapotamicum (syn. vexillarium), this on a wall ; Berberidopsis corallina, on wall, flowers freely every year ; Eugenia apiculata, fine bush about 15ft. ; Abelia rupestris ; Pieris japonica ; Plagianthus Lyallii ; Drimys aromatica and Winteri, very fine bushes ; Clethra alnifolia ; Tricuspidaria lanceolata and dependens ; and Daphne odora, on south wall. — Ruth Hawkshaw, Hollycombe, Sussex. A WEEK or two ago one of your correspondents asked for the names of twelve flowering shrubs hardy in Scotland and not near the sea. I give the names of twelve which I have grown successfully for a good many years. I have added a supplementary list which some might care to ■select from in preference to the first twelve. This is a pretty cold district in winter ; we suffer from rime and, in the springtime, late frosts, but flower- ing shrubs, speaking generally, do well. The undernoted twelve flowering shrubs I have found hardy, with the exception of Berberis Darwinii, which gets cut down in very severe winters, but it should not be omitted. The flowering season is from April- till September. Spiraea arguta, white, and Forsythia suspensa (or F. intermedia), yellow, April; Exochorda macrantha, white, May ; Berberis Darwinii, orange, and B. vulgaris atropurpurea, fine foliage effect, June ; Weigela . rose, and W. Eva Rathke, dark crimson, June ; Philadelphia Bouquet Blanc, double white, and P. Avalanche, single white, July ; Enkianthus campanulatus, reddish bell-shaped flowers, foliage good in autumn, and Deutzia crenata fl. pi., white, July; Potentilla Friedrichseni, yellow, September. Supplementary list, and all good. — Escallonia Edinburgh or Edina, pink ; E. Philippiana, white ; Euonymus europaeus, flower poor, but seed pods ml foliage fine; Cydonia pygmaea, flame colour; Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora, cream; Spiraea Anthony Waterer, crimson. Large flowering shrubs or small trees. — Prunus Pissardi, pink flower and dark foliage ; Amelanchier canadensis, white ; Colutea violacea, yellow flowers, fine pods. Three good Rhododendrons. — Pink Pearl , Doncaster, dark red ; Corona, salmon rose. Three Azaleas. — Anthony Koster, Alphonse Lavalee, J. C. Van Tol. Lilacs, Laburnums and Brooms grow splendidly. Buddleias, Cistuses, Veronicas stand in mild winters. The following are not hardy in the open garden, at least, to grow and flower well. Ceanothus, Romneya, Pittosporum, Chois\-a, Desfontainea, Eucryphia. Viburnum plicatum and Ceanothus Gloire de Versailles do well on a wall. Japanese double-flowering Cherries, both pink and white, do well. Japanese Maples are quite hardy. — Robt. Brough, Perthshire. THE PROPAGATION OF THE HYACINTH. (~)F the vast number of people who grow the Hyacinth annually, how many are there who know anything of its increase or, knowing it, have tried the experiment of growing their own bulbs ? I think it is well worth trying if only for the added pleasure a genuinely home-grown flower always gives. Those who grow or handle the Hyacinth for sale almost invariably state in their instructions that, having once flowered, the bulbs are of no further use and no doubt this is true of those grown in natural and artificial increase. The one on the left had its base cut away in the early summer and was laid on a greenhouse shelf. It produced thirty-eight young bulbs, the largest being about lin. in diameter ; the other bulb shews the natural increase. The Dutch growers are said to propagate by means of cuts made partly through the bulb near the base, which is then planted in the open ground, but apparently not much is known here of their methods.— H. C. W. BUDDLEIA AURKULATA. TT is a pleasure to see that this useful shrub is mentioned as flowering freely in a Somerset- shire garden. Why is it, I wonder, that so fragrant and desirable a plant is so little known or grown ? Its creamy white little flowers are so abundant on its leafy and branching growths that it is an ornament to any garden, either in England or on this (the Riviera) coast. Its particular charm, however, is that it " creates an atmosphere of its own," so to say, so pervading, so sweet and so distinct is its fragrance. On these still December days, when yards away from the rough shrubberies where it loves to grow, you say, " How sweet something smells " without having an idea where HYACINTH PROPAGATION. in water or fibre, but as regards those grown in good compost this, I think, is hardly correct, for if they can be finished off with the same care as the Freesia they will give a good account of themselves in the open ground and will continue to do so for several years. If the grower is of an experimental turn of mind and has the necessary patience, it will be found that the Hyacinth can be increased more quickly than most bulbs. Any bulbs which have been forced and ripened may have the base of the bulb cut clean away and then be laid on a dry shelf. With most bulbs this would be absolutely fatal, but not so with the Hyacinth. The cut will heal quickly and from the base of each scale a varying number of tiny bulbs will be produced according to the amount of nourishment available in the scale on which they feed and grow until nothing is left of the scale but a thin dry skin. If it is desired to carry the experiment further, the bulblets may be dibbled into pans or boxes of rich open compost and grown on thus for a season, wrhen they will be large enough for a nursery bed in the open. If generously treated they soon reach flowering size. If the first small spikes of bloom are picked off the bulbs gain in strength for the next season. I enclose a photo- graph of two bulbs shewing the great difference it comes from or what plant it may be. Ten degrees of frost makes no impression on its flower- ing, so it should be a welcome shrub in many a seaside garden as well as in the sheltered south- west. It positively thrives on neglect, and is to be found in all the old-fashioned gardens of the Riviera. — E. H. Woodall. WILD FLOWERS AT COUNTRY SHOWS. T READ with interest the remarks of H. C. Ford in The Garden for December 2, 1922, question- ing the wisdom of the recommendation I made on the subject in the issue for October 21. My intention was certainly not to encourage the whole- sale and wanton destruction of rare species of wild flowers, but exactly the reverse. I firmly maintain that the only way to arouse the interest of the rising generation in wild flowers is to encour- age them to collect specimens and take them home and have them identified and classified from a good standard work on the subject. The child who is taught to do this will, I am certain, be as anxious as .Mr. H. C. Ford, or any other person, not to uproot rare specimens when found, but will long for the season when the same plant will be in bloom again. I am writing from experience and know the joy it has afforded January 6, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 11 members of my own family and others to find anything rare and uncommon in the plant world, and how they have revisited the spot where the treasure was found. I have marked, too, their dejection if anything should have happened to mar or destroy what had been a thing of beauty. My contention is that the more children are encouraged to study nature the more in after life are they likely to appreciate and reverence good, and to pass on the knowledge acquired for the benefit of those who come after them. — Horticus. NOTES ON TRAPPING VERMIN (Continued from Vol. lxxxvi, page 660.) A BOUT the best and quickest way of i\ destroying all underground vermin when / % their burrows can be found and got ^™ 1^% at is to use bisulphide of carbon, to * *■ be had from any chemist. This most useful substance is both poisonous and highly inflammable, so should be used with caution. It is dangerous to smoke when using it. Search out the rat burrows and carefully stop all holes that can be found except the topmost. Pour into this hole 2 ozs. or 3 ozs. of the liquid and lightly stop the hole for a minute to allow the gas to descend into the lower parts of the burrow. Next remove the stopping from this hole and drop into it a lighted match. The gas will instantly explode and all vermin within reach of the poisonous fumes will be killed. If any holes are accidentally left open, the rats will promptly bolt when the liquid is poured in. Proceed in the same way with the colonies of voles, except that less of the bisulphide is required, as the holes are smaller. Half an ounce will kill the long-tailed mice in their holes, and 1 oz. will settle the largest wasps' nest. As an alternative I can recommend with every confidence McDougall's Vermin Chokers, which will also destroy all vermin in their burrows when used according to instructions given by the makers. The sportsman who has no ferret can use small pieces for bolting rats, using them on the windward side of the burrows so that the fumes will draw through and, of course, no holes must be stopped. Hawks, owls, stoats and weasels should be encouraged wherever possible. By destroying these the balance of nature is upset, and the result is plagues of vermin, both furred and feathered. Rabbits and hares are very destructive where they gain access to garden and pleasure grounds, but here we are treading on more delicate ground and, generally, great efforts are made to keep them out by fixing wire netting. When fixing this a foot of the wire should be curved outwards in a shallow trench to prevent rabbits from burrowing beneath, which they will do if the bottom is sunk straight down into the ground. The poor man's allotment is their happy feeding ground, and the wire snare is the best way to take them if their runs can be seen, but a lesson on the spot from an old hand is necessary. During the war I was stationed for some time in an Eastern county, and there the allotment holders used an ingenious pitfall con- structed with much labour by sinking a deep cask in the ground. The lid was made slightly smaller and balanced at the centre A bait of Carrots was fixed here and when the animal jumped on the lid it was precipitated into the cask and the lid righted itself again. Of feathered pests rooks and sparrows are easily scared by placing strands of black carpet thread above or among the seeds or plants attacked. If one rook be shot and hung up on the plot, no other rook will venture near. Most small birds may be scared with streamers of coloured paper, pieces of broken looking-glass, pieces of bright tin or feathers suspended from the top of tall, oblique stakes or from lines. Blackbirds, jays, hawfinches and bullfinches take but little notice of scares, and the best remedy for these is a dose of small shot, but against the first three the gunner must be an early riser. The large tomtits or oxeyes often do great damage to the later crop of Peas, and their numbers may easily be reduced with the break- back mouse trap. I fix a small piece of wire in the trigger and on it place a green pea for bait, and drill a hole through the trap just behind the spring. Take a fairly stout stake 3ft. in length, cut the top squarely across, and nail on it a piece of thin board as wide as, and slightly longer, than the trap. Drive a wire nail in the centre, leaving nearly an inch projecting above the board. Cut off the head and pass the spike through the hole in the trap. Three or four of these to a row of Peas will account for a good many tits. It comes as a surprise to many people to learn that these birds eat the Peas. They imagine they are after the small caterpillars in the pod, but this is only partly true. Fasten the trap with a short string tied to a nail near the top of the stake. Of course, this question of killing birds is always sure to raise a storm of remonstrance from many people, but these kindly souls should consider well the ways of nature to learn the truth about the matter. They will find that this unpleasant duty is forced upon us by the selfish and thoughtless action of those who ruthlessly destroy, in the interests of sport, the raptorial birds and small carnivora?, which, if left to do the work for which they seem to have been created, would do the killing for us. The balance of nature would then be kept as it was intended to be. Lingfield. H. C. Wood. THE GARDENER S FRIEND — THE WEASEL. SINGLE ROSES IN the Wichuraiana section there is, I need hardly say, a long list of robust and beautiful hybrid singles well enough known to everyone and adaptable for a wide variety of uses. But there is one Wichuraiana which I would like to mention in particular, and that is the type species, a pure white, yellow-centred creeping Rose which, oddly enough, seeing that most of its progeny are early bloomers, flowers towards the end of summer and continues far into autumn. We grow this delight- ful thing where it can ramble at will along the ground, intertwining among Heaths and other lowly shrubs on the open spaces of our woodland bank. There is also a variegated Rose whose young shoots are a vivid pink, which appears to be a form of the above. It has the same small white flowers borne in clusters, but it is not nearly so strong a grower as the afore-mentioned. A most delightful little rock garden shrub. The Ramanas Rose (Rosa rugosa) is yet another well known species whose immense single, very fragrant blooms in pink, rose, purple and other colours, together with the splendid foliage, make a most effective display for the shrubbery or woodland garden where the plant can spread at will. This good old Rose will do in almost any soil, it does not object to shade, and besides being an almost perpetual bloomer, the big medlar- shaped fruits which ripen in late summer remain on the bushes and retain their glowing colour for several months. Nor can one omit from any list of single Roses, however brief, our own Sweet Briar (R. rubugi- nosa), the " Sweet Eglantine " of the poets and perhaps the most beautiful of all native flowering shrubs. Then we have also the common Dog Rose (one of the parents of the delightful Una), the best forms of which are not to be despised in their proper place. R. arvensis, the trailing Rose of our hedgerows, whose large, milk white, scentless flowers will open more freely beneath the shade of woodland trees than those of any other Rose I know, is on that account alone worthy of con- sideration. R. tomentosa, common in some districts, is also a very delightful native with its downy foliage and (if you get a good form) rose pink flowers of remarkable purity and depth of tone. Often classed among the bedders the odd half- dozen of the Irish Elegance set, surpassingly lovely in the warm, rich orange and flesh tints of their broad-petalled flowers, are quite as adaptable- for less formal treatment. Jersey Beauty, of the Wichuraiana clan, is a single of exquisite form,, opening in a delicate creamy yellow which passes to nankeen — one of the few of its race which may be grown to perfection as a large mounding bush and left to take care of itself. Few Roses have a foliage to equal that of Jersey Beauty, and unless that ravishing creature, Innocence, just introduced to us, has a foliage as fine and a manner as graceful, I doubt whether even her fuller and more radiant charms can wholly eclipse those of the Jersey lady. To those who would add a glowing buff Rose- to their collection of singles there is Mrs. Oakley Fisher, which attracted no little attention at last autumn's shows, while the curiously attractive Queen Alexandra Rose, in deep crimson with a striking buff reverse, somewhat suggestive of a tousled Juliet, will afford an uncommon note of colour. Isobel we all know and love as one of the most exquisite hybrid singles on our lists, and there is the much newer Glowworm, a fiery, refulgent thing for which " Vesuvius " might have been a happier name. It is too soon for us to say how Glowworm is going to behave in our 12 THE GARDEN. [January 6, 1923. conditions, but it promises well and has a perfume not to be forgotten. Another exceHent new single is Ethel James, as dangerous a rival as Isobel has ever had, but whether this one again will be content to be other than a bedder also remain; to be proved. While no one is more conscious than I am of the omissions from the above paragraphs of many worthy singles in species, hybrids and varieties, enough has been said I hope to inspire those who have a penchant for single Roses to further efforts, and to induce those who have given up bedders in despair to realise what a wide field of possibili- ties is offered them in another direction. I may add that any of the Roses here mentioned can be planted at any time during winter or early spring in open weather, and that the great majority of them, even the comparatively unknown species, can be secured for about eighteenpence apiece. North Wales. A. T. J. CHARMING DWARF CAMPANULAS THE opening point of such a note as one that deals with the Campanula for rock and other gardens can scarcely be other than a very big query. Is there a Campanula that is not charming? (I had almost written " indispensable " for charming.) If so, it must be very rare, for I have never yet seen a variety that did not arouse in me the desire to "have a bit" in my garden. This is just where the difficulty comes in ; for, while " wanting all," some amount of wise elimination has to be practised or the whole of the space would be occupied by Campanulas to the exclusion of everything else, so numerous are the species and varieties. Selection then is a work "f absolute necessity, although one is conscious that the " left outs " are in many cases quite as worthy as the elected. I do not propose to choose either because the variety is rare, or to exclude it because it is common, but upon one count only — its appeal as a charmingly bi autiful and good garden plant. ( . Allionii should be planted in a level pocket where it has space to spread, for it is in no sense a crevice lover. Give it a moderately rich sandy loam with plenty of sunshine, so that the roots, which run beneath the surface, have room to push up here and there aiid form the rosettes of small leaves and large solitary bell-shaped blue flowers that spring from the centre of these. Allionii is a native of the South of France and, where failure is experienced, it usually comes from one of two causes — too shaded a position, which means that the soil is not warm enough in spring, or too small a pocket which does not permit sufficient extension of the underground runners. Our native Harebell, in its familiar guise, may become almost epidemic when introduced into the rock garden. I know of few other minute seeded plants that are more capable of taking care of their offspring, but the white variety, C. rotundifolia alba and rotundifolia fl. pi.. a delightful plant under ift. in height, with tufts of slender stems and a profusion of fully double blue flowers, are never out of place. The white variety is so charming that even if it did become a weed, one would be quite content to pull it up where superfluous and let it go at that. With the double, of course, this trouble does not exist and propagation can only 1"- effected by very careful division of the roots in early spring. Among newer forms, note C. acutangula, a trailing blue-tlowered plant that is perfect when falling in a cascade over a rock which it covers with its dainty ivylike foliage. Close little rosettes of leaves, 2ms. high, from which, as early as the merry mouth of May, spring slender erect stems, 6ins. or Sins, high, with lovely wide open star-shaped flowers at the top ; this is a description that conveys a very fair idea of C. abietina, a beautiful species for prominent pockets that are raised well above ground level. Many find that C. barbata is an uncertain and difficult plant, but I have found it do well if one does not expect it to live too long. Most agree that it is perennial and so it may be in some soils, but, for practical purposes, it is best to regard it as a biennial and sow each year. By treating thus, I have had some really splendid tufts on a sunny rock garden with a westerly aspect. Sometimes the plants do not flower until the second year after sowing and, where this happens, the results are infinitely finer than if flowering takes place earlier. I have seen it suggested that it should be grown in the moraine, but have never tried it in this way. although I am sure that it appreciates a raised position with the sharpest possible drainage and gritty soil, for, if shape and depth of colour, but the named forms such as Isabel, rich dark violet ; pelviformis, with its saucer-shaped pale blue bells; Riverslea, deep blue ; turbinata pallida, very pale blue ; and White Star, a very fine pure white, are infinitely more satisfactory. " Very fine " is a correct comment on the splendid hybrid variety, G. F. Wilson, which is the result of a cross between carpatica and pulla. It retains tin- carpatica habit and combines with this the in li violet colour of the smaller species and soon makes a large clump covered with flat, salver-like blooms. It will not tolerate shade, but requires full sunshine, combined with a rich, moist, gritty soil. One is sometimes led by circumstances to do things at the wrong time and I plead guilty to having planted C. garganica in the middle of the winter, on a Christmas eve to be exact. I was told that this was most certainly among the " doubt- fuls," came from Italy and often disappeared in our cold, damp winters. Plants — like humans — sometimes do the unexpected and those specimens, so far from resenting my procedure, grew like weeds and are prosperous and happy to-day, and I would be afraid to say how many years ago it is since I first put them there. A cosy nook i- advisabk — it is true — and also a well drained, A TUFT OF CAMPANULA PORTENSCHLAGIANA. damp lodges round the crown of the rosette of leaves, it quickly succumbs. Drought in summer i> equally fatal, so that care must be taken to see that its needs in the way of watering are not overlooked. C. Balchiniana is another kind that appreciates a comfortable home, by which sunshine and a certain measure of protection from cold winds in spring is implied. This may be noted as an unusual trailer after the form of isophylla, for the growths trail and the foliage is prettily variegated, while there are masses of pale blue flowers. It is not difficult but I question its entire hardiness and it is safer to take up a plant or two in autumn and keep in a cool greenhouse in winter. Everyone knows the marvellously floriferous qualities of the carpatica varieties — good alike in rock garden and border — but I would warn against raising these from seed unless one wishes to experiment. It is interesting certainly, for one gets plenty of variation in size, slightly elevated spot, but my experience induces me to sac " quite hardy." In appearance it is a very effective little plant about jins. high, " neat as a new pin " in habit, with pretty crenulated leaves and sprays of starry blue flowers with a white eye, in addition to which there is the usual alba or white form. Far less common than these is the variety garganica hirsuta, a very rampant trailer, differing from the type in that the leaves are densely haired and the flowers light blue, produced from May to September. Those seeking a crevice li '\ er, should not pas> by the variety haylodgensis, which is very valuable from many points of view. It is " late " in flowering and at the zenith of its perfection in July and August, a period when good rock plants are worth their weight in gold ; it succeeds admirably when packed between two large boulders with the interstice filled with rich gritty loam, for it requires the sharpest possible drainage and exults in warm January 6, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 13 sunshine. The habit is prostrate, so that it follows in its growth the form of the cleft in the rocks between which it is growing, smothering itself with masses of pale lavender purple flowers. Writing of " late " varieties reminds me of C. linifolia and linifolia alba. These, unlike the last- mentioned, are upright growers, with very narrow foliage and thin, wiry stems carrying large cup- shaped blue or white flowers that make a most effective show in August and well on into September. The effect of a single plant is good, but I have determined to find a spot where I can use it in a mass. A beautiful effect that persists for weeks may be provided by arranging a little " waterfall," but instead of using water, a bed of rich yellow loam should be put down and planted with one of the " wee " Campanulas, such as pulla or pusilla, both of which, when in flower, give such a wild profusion of dainty bell-like blossoms that one has a flower- fall of blue, white or light blue blooms, without being aware of the green foliage that is buried beneath them. This is not a bit of freak gardening. Let each one try it for himself and blame me if not quite captivated by the splendid effect. This does not, of course, exhaust the ways of using these two valuable little varieties, which seem to flourish almost anywhere, for they do well in partial shade as well as in fullest sunlight. If one has a sharp slope well packed with rocks to keep the soil above from slipping, he should try pusilla in the chinks and see how admirably it adapts itself to this position, for it will soon " wander " behind the rocks and peep its growths out again in all sorts of unexpected places although it is never rampant nor a nuisance. Another " grow anywhere " species is C. muralis, which is more properly listed under the easily remembered title of Portenschlagiana, although I confess to having labelled all mine " muralis." This provides a double event, flowering gloriously at two seasons, most considerately choosing two periods when it is especially valuable, i.e., late May when a pause often comes over the garden and again in early October, when anything dwarf and purplish blue has become very scarce. It may be planted in a variety of situations and I think I can promise that it will grow and flower profusely in sun, partial shade or even beneath trees. Small pieces soon spread into wide tufts and it is one of the simplest plants to divide, while for permanent edgings it is beyond criticism. Evergreen in habit, it forms close tufts of crinkled leaves that are bright, restful and refreshing when it is not producing its blaze of blue purple bells. I have seen it described as the " freest blooming alpine Campanula," and should think there are few who know it well who would be disposed to contest this. There are two fine varieties of this species, C. muralis bavarica, larger and bluer and more vigorous, and major. a new form that I have not seen, but which is said to be finer still. C. Raddeana can be relied upon to give a long succession of bloom from June to October. The flowers are like an open cup of intense purple blue on slender stems 6ins. to cjins. high ; a very good variety of spreading growth. Among the hybrids, do not pass C. Stansfieldii, for this is a gem, forming dense little tufts of leaves from among which spring stems jins. high, carrying large lilac blue semi-drooping flowers almost all through the summer. It is a good variety to spread quickly and loves a deep pocket in an open position. Quite distinct is C. nitida, a delightful little minia- ture with dark shining evergreen leathery foliage, from among which rise erect stems bearing whorls of rather large flat blue flowers from July to September. And so one might continue remarking upon variety after variety until a complete list had been made, but time has come to call a halt and I will conclude with C. Steveni nana, a dwarf and compact form of Steveni which makes a perfect carpet of narrow light green foliage, above which, at a height of about 4ms., are large lilac blue flowers in July and August, the dainty little blooms nodding on the stems with every breath that blow-. H. W. Canning-Wright. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. The Seed Order. — If not already done, no time should be lost in despatching the seed order, for although the bulk of the seeds will be sown later, it is time a start was made with some of the early vegetables. General Work. — Every opportunity should be taken to get manure on the ground, also any ashes from the rubbish fire, and old potting soil if there is no other use for it. Such crops as Onions, the Cabbage family, Leeks, Beans and Peas enjoy a liberal dressing of manure. If the ground is in good heart, no manure will be necessary for Carrots, Parsnips, Potatoes and Beet, but a sprinkling of some fertiliser may be given at the time of planting. Dwarf Peas. — For early supplies a sheltered south border should be chosen, and the kinds I have found successful are Langley Gem and Pioneer. Select a fine dry day and plant 3ins. deep in drills 2ft. apart. The Flower Garden. Herbaceous Borders. — At an early date these borders should be given attention, the old growths cut down, and large stools of .Michaelmas Daisies, Heleniums, etc.. may be lifted, divided and the outside pieces replanted. Pa>onies, Delphiniums and Phloxes are best left alone for two or three years. The border can be dug over and well decaved manure incorporated as the operation proceeds. If new borders are contemplated, the ground should be trenched and manured a week or two before planting takes place. Roses. — When the soil and weather are favour- able the planting of Roses may be completed, although much work can be continued until March. Deep planting must be avoided, and standard trees should be secured to a firm stake. Gravel Paths. — Where new gravel is required it may be applied at this season, and if it is rolled occasionally a smooth surface will be obtained before dry weather sets in. The Rock Garden. — This interesting section must be examined and a sharp look-out kept for slugs, which are numerous in some gardens. Traps are useful, and many of these pests can be collected and destroyed in the early part of the day. Tender plants will need protection during severe weather, and sheets of glass, conifer boughs, etc., will be found suitable, but they must be removed directly the weather improves. The soil can be lightly forked over and, where needed, a top-dressing of gritty soil given. A note ought to be made of any "failures and the plants replaced any time before March. Fruit Under Glass. Peaches. — In some gardens will be found two or three Peach-houses, and where such is the case the earliest trees will have started into growth and be approaching the flowering stage. When the flowers are open they will need to be fertilised artificially, and a rabbit's tail tied on the end of a bamboo cane is usually chosen for this work. Select a fine sunny day and then touch the flowers lightly with the tail. Maintain a temperature of 6o° to 650 by day and 550 at night, and ventilate the house whenever the weather is mild. Watch for green and black fly and lightly fumigate the house directly these pests are seen. In the later houses the pruning and cleaning of the trees and washing down the woodwork and glass will need attention. When pruning the trees cut out the wood that has borne fruit during the past vear and tie in the young shoots which will bear fruit this season. Care must be taken to avoid overcrowding, for this and overcropping is a failing not only of amateurs but occasionally of professional gardeners. If any new trees are required in the late house, they should be planted at once. When selecting varieties that known as Alexandra Noblesse ought to be included, as its flavour is excellent. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Planting Fruit Trees. — Where it is intended to replace old trees or useless varieties with better kinds, such work must be completed without further delay. Standard trees will need to be made quite secure to a stake, and each tree should be examined occasionally to ascertain if it is still firmly embedded in the soil. All stone fruits enjoy lime in some form, and when planting such trees sprinkle a little wood-ash and mortar rubble among the roots. All damaged roots should be carefully cut off with a sharp knife and the very strong ones cut back slightly in order to encourage the formation of fibrous roots, which are so beneficial to the tree. Specimens planted against a wall must not be tied permanently until such times at the soil has settled down. Manure for Fruit Trees. — Plantations of Currants, Gooseberries and Raspberries will be greatly assisted by a liberal dressing of good farm- yard manure, and it should be applied as soon as possible or during a spell of frosty weather. The ashes from the garden fire may also be used with advantage. T. W. Briscoe (Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq.), Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Seed Order. — The seed lists are now to hand, and it will be in the interests alike of the vendor and purchaser if orders are placed early. The making up of the list of vegetable seeds is a comparatively easy matter for those who have had previous experience. The quantities are pretty well known, and a written or mental note will have been made of varieties which have proved satisfactory or otherwise. Notwithstand- ing disappointments in the past, a few novelties should be included ; but for the bulk of the supply reliance should be placed on well tried varieties. The selection of flower seeds calls for greater forethought, as planting schemes are varied more or less year by year. Plans for the coming season should be more or less definitely fixed now, as it is bad policy to order seeds haphazard. The Kitchen Garden. Digging and Trenching. — Have the digging or trenching of all vacant quarters completed as soon as possible, so that the soil may get weathered before cropping operations commence. Rhubarb. — With the advent of the New Year Rhubarb crowns will be more easily excited into growth for early supplies. Various devices may be employed. A good forkful of rather dry, loose litter or leaves may be lightly placed on the crowns, or they may be covered with extra large flower-pots or a circle of corrugated iron placed over them. Seed Potatoes. — If not already done, " seed " of early varieties should be packed closely together in wooden trays, crown upwards, and placed in a light position where a temperature of 400 to 450 can be maintained. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Combating Caterpillars. — Gooseberry bushes are subject to attacks by caterpillars of two kinds : those of the magpie moth and the sawfly. Both pests may be dealt with during the spring or summer, but " prevention is better than cure," so if their presence is suspected they should be taken in hand now. The sawfly caterpillar deposits its eggs in the soil under the bushes where it has been lodging. A heavy dressing of lime or soot generally proves effective for these. Rake the dressing lightly in. The magpie moth caterpillar is more beautiful, more destructive and more difficult to destroy. It deposits its eggs on the gossamer-like threads it suspends on the branches of the bushes. A good spraying with arsenate of lead at the rate of lib. to a gallon of water, plus a little treacle to make it sticky, is almost sure to make short work of this pest. Pruning. — The pruning of all kinds of hardy fruit trees should be completed as quickly as possible, as the sap will soon be on the move upwards again. Pruning should not be carried out during frosty weather. Fruit Under Glass. Mid-Season Vines.— In houses where ripe Grapes are required early in August preparations should be made now for starting the Vines. Pruning will have been attended to, so the work at the present will consist of thoroughly washing down the woodwork and glass with soap (no soda) and moderatelv warm water, removing all loose bark 14 THE GARDEN. [January 6, 1923. from the Vines and giving them a dressing with Gishurst's Compound, working it well into the crevices of the spurs. Limewash the walls with hot lime and remove some 3ms. of soil from the surface of the border and replace it with maiden loam, plus a little lime, wood-ashes and bone- flour. Water the border if dry. The Flower Garden. Digging and Trenching. — All vacant ground should be trenched or dug as soon as possible. Ground that is to be occupied by annuals may be allowed to pass with a light dressing of manure and single digging, but that intended for the reception of Hollyhocks, Dahlias, Pentstemons or Chrysanthemums should receive a liberal dress- ing of manure and be either trenched or double dug. Sweet Peas. — Those who desire to obtain long-stemmed Sweet Peas with plenty of " fours " must lay a good foundation on which to build their hopes. A trench should be taken out about 2ft. wide and 2 1ft. deep. The trench should then be filled up to within a few inches of the ground-level by mixing the top spit of the excavated soil with turfy maiden loam, half-decayed vegetable refuse or the contents of pots in which Chry- santhemums have been grown, adding to the mixture some bone-flour or bone-meal. It is not advisable to apply quick-acting fertilisers at this stage, for if this is done it is very apt to induce the dreaded streak. Plants treated as advised above will require supports at least Sft. high, and these should be seen to now. Those who can secure them cannot do better than use natural stakes — branches of Beech, Elm or Hazel being most suitable for this purpose. Charles Comfort (Formerly Head-Gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian). GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Greenhouse Climbers from Seed. — There are quite a number of climbers of a more or less annual character that can be raised from seed sown early in the new year. It is wise, therefore, to procure a supply of seed as soon as possible. One of the most striking and possibly the least grown of all is Rhodochifon volubile with pale reddish calyces and dark blood red tubular corolla. If grown on in 8in. pots it will make growth some 10ft. in length, and will flower freely all through the latter part of summer, autumn and even during the winter months. This plant is really a short- lived perennial, and is very fine in its second year if it ran be planted out and trained on a rafter or to wires under the roof glass. Usually it is not worth keeping after the second year from seed. Other climbing plants that may be treated as annuals are Cobaea scandens, Ipomnea rubro- ccerulea, I. coccinea, Mina lobata, Thunbergia alata in several colours, Eccremocarpus scaber and Maurandia Barclayana. There are some six species of Maurandia, but M. Barclayana and M. scandens (Lophospermum scandens) are the two most commonly seen in cultivation. The majority of the plants mentioned are half-hardy, and in the South at least may be planted out and trained against walls or trellises during the summer months. Asparagus Sprengeri and A. plumosus and its variety nanus are more or less indispensable in most gardens. As the seeds take some time to germinate and the plants in their younger state are somewhat slow-growing, seed should now be sown as soon as possible, soaking the seeds for twelve hours in warm water before sowing. The seed-pots should then be plunged in a case with bottom-heat, covering the pots with a piece of glass until germination takes place. A. Sprengeri makes an excellent basket plant for the conserva- tory. The plants are very beautiful when covered with their small white, starry-shaped flowers, which usually set plenty of fruits, the latter being bright red when ripe. Asparagus decumbens is a very graceful and dainty species for hanging baskets, and it is sur- prising it is not more generally grown, as it succeeds perfectly well under the same conditions as A. Sprengeri. A. scandens deflexus is also a very beautiful species of somewhat the same habit. A. medeoloides (Smilax) and its variety rayrti- folius are usually in great demand for decorative work, and where wanted for this purpose seed should be sown early in the New Year. Grown on into 6in. pots and trained round several slender stakes they are useful for furnishing the stages in the greenhouse or conservatory, but if required for a supply of cut shoots they should be planted out and each shoot allowed to run up a thin string. The back wall of a greenhouse is a suitable place for growing them. Failing this they may be planted against and trained up the back walls of vineries. A. retrofractus is a very distinct and beautiful species, which is seen at its best when planted out and trained up a pillar in a cool house. Manettia bicolor is a very old garden plant, but does not appear to be very common in gardens at present. It is a twining plant, with small, tubular scarlet flowers tipped with yellow, and has the merit of being more or less in flower all the year round ; but is useful, as it flowers during the winter months. It can be planted out and trained up a pillar ; but nice plants can be grown in 6in. pots, training the shoots round neat stakes. It is easily propagated by means of cuttings inserted in pots of sandy soil and stood in a close case. The plant grows quite well in any ordinary potting compost, and while growing should have warm greenhouse treatment. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. J. Coutis. Answers to Correspondents TREES .AND SHRURS. TRANSPLANTING ROMNEYA COULTERI (W. M.).— Transplanting the tree Poppy is a risky operation, especially if the plant is a large one. It is not so much a question of climate as of soil and position. In a sheltered sunny position and a well drained loam. Romneya Cuiilteri should succeed in Gloucestershire. The positions to avoid are damp, cold places and heavy soils. This is not a favourable time for transplanting ; spring is the best season. As our correspondent apparently lias no alterna- tive, it is wort h while taking the risk with a plant so delight- ful when it succeeds. Plant a portion in the il* . \-. ■ nn_ position and pot up some of the smaller pieces, placing in a cool greenhouse. Growth is sometimes slow fur the first year, but once established the plants grow and flower freely. Do not plant, the crowns deeply, rather protect with bracken, dry leaves or litter in severe weather. In lifting it would be much better to save all the fleshy roots possible, the broken ends have an unfortunate habit of dying back. If the transplanting proves a failure, raise young plants from seeds. NAMES OF PLANTS. — " Lanriek."— 1. Centradenia rosea; 2, Polypodium aureum ; 3, Chlorophytum elatum variegatum : 4, Veronica Lyallii. NAME OF FRUIT.— C. F. T. W., Suffolk.— Apple Striped Beefing. iH KJ VV is the time to plant MERRYWEATHER'S FRUIT TREES SPECIAL ATTENTION GIVEN TO ALL FRUIT GROWERS. DON'T FAIL TO PLANT Bramley's Seedling The Most Satisfactory Apple Grown. The Merryweather Damson AN EXCELLENT CROPPER. The fruit is of enormous size, with the true Damson flavour. BRAMLEY'S SEEDLING. Currant Southwell Red It flowers very late, and so escapes late frosts. Long bunches of bright shining red berries are formed, the individual berries being very large an J uniform in size. When gathered it has a very fine appearance and commands the top price in the market. Price 8d. each; 7/- per doz. Extra strong, 1/- each ; 10-perdoz. LET US HELP YOU. Advice and quotations free. Send for Catalogue, post free on application. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, Ltd., Southwell, Notts. January 6, 192;,.] THE GARDEN. ROBERT VEITGH & SON Specialize in : Hardy Trees and Shrubs, Choice and rare Plants, Magnolias, Camellias, Acacias, Fruit Trees, Roses, Nerines, Seeds, Bulbs. CATALOGUES FREE ON APPLICATION' Royal Nurseries, EXETER Eli!ilB|E]51E]E]E]E]B]B]B]E]E]E|B)E|B] 1 KING'S ACRE ROSES g noted for over a Century 19 Oil for their hardiness and reli- 13 ability. New alphabetically 13 arranged Catalogue of more 13 [HI than usual interest, contain- 13 ing helpful information, with 13 Special Collections for all 13 purposes. Free on request. 13 fill Narseries Established 1785. HI] B] KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 fij] HEREFORD. 13 ElElaSIalalalslalalaSSIalalsIalalij] COOPER'S WINTER(vi)FLUID Cleans and re-invigorates the Fruit Tree* Kills Moss, Lichen and other harmful growths Does not burn FOR POTTING PURPOSES USE WELLSON'S ORGANIC PLANT FOOD A Plant well fed requires no stimulant _ Simples and Prices from WELLSON & CO., CastleWorks, Garden St., Leeds NOW READY. The SECOND EDITION of THE ROCK GARDEN By E. Large 8vo. 7/6 net. H. JENKINS. Illustrated throughout. By post, 8/-. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. The Culture of Chrysanthemums By H. WELLS. Freely Illustrated. Paper Covers, 2/6 net; Cloth, 3/6 net; By post 4d. extra. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Ltd. 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2. THE NEWEST & BEST STRAINS of VEGETABLE & FLOWER SEEDS & POTATOES :: :: BULBS :: :: LAWN SEEDS FERTILISERS LAWN SAND WORM & WEED KILLERS ETC. SOW NOW Under Glass WEBBS' 'Supreme' Dwarf Bean 2s. 3d. per pint. ' Little Marvel ' Pea 2s. 3d. per pint. 1 Wonderful ' Carrot 1s. 6d. per ounce. ' Freedom ' Cucumber 1s. 6d. per packet. ' Masterpiece ' Onion 1s. & 1s. 6d. per pkt. 'Exquisite' Melon 1s. 6d.'i>er packet. ' Favourite ' Radish 10d. per ounce. Early 'Favourite' Tomato 1s. per packet. 'Champion Prize' Leek 1s. per _ packet. 'Forcing Gem' Lettuce 1s. per'packet. WEBB & SONS, Ltd., STOURBRIDGE. ARE YOU WITHOUT A SERVANT ? THEN READ The Servantless House and How to Equip it. By R. RANDAL PHILLIPS A thoroughly practical book by the Editor of " Our Homes and Gardens," showing especially what can be done in existing houses to secure the greatest comfort in the most economical way. Large 8vo., full of illustrations, 6s. net. By post 6s. 6d. A prospectus of this book will be sent post free on application to the Manager, " Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.2. HOCKEY, GOLF, TENNIS, CROQUET.— Invaluable booklets on these pastimes, by authoritative writers, are publishe.1 at the Offices of " Cocntky Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2., 9d. each, by post lid. LADIES' FIELD FASHIONS The Ideal Dress Journal for the Modern Woman Every iss-ecf "Ladies' Field Fashions" presents the newest season s modes adapted to the reeds of the smart woman of to-day. Rominent Fashion Artists picture in terms of simplicity and smartness the latest creatioTS from the acknowledged centres of fashion, wh 1st style experts advise authoritatively on all matters of dress. An ex:Iusue feature every month is a beautiful Colour Supplement picturing a variety of charming and wearable styles. Published 26th of every Month PRICE 1{- NOW READY. LAND DRAINAGE From FIELD to SEA. By C. H. J. CLAYTON, M.S.E., A.M.I. Mech.E. Chief Drainage Engineer to the Board of Agri- culture and Fisheries. Crown 8vo, Illustrated. 6/- net. By post 6/6 A full prospectus of this important work post free on application to the Manager, "Country Life." Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. VI. THE GARDEN. [January 6, 1923. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a "Horse Shoe" with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 38,090 Soil. Used in the R.H S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet E and quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«PKmi\ell0C°Ltd Southward Sf LONDON. S.E.I. fo!*MX^liSB!B!B>SB AUCTION SALES BY PROTHEROE & MORRIS Every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY, of ROSES, AZALEAS & RHODODENDRONS, Herbaceous and Rock Plants, FRUIT TREES, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, BULBS, etc., At 67 & 68, Gheapside, London,E.C2 Write for Catalogues. 'Phone: Bank 857. BENTLEY'S Concentrated Alkali (WINTER WASH) A highly effective and most popular Winter Wash for fruit and forest trees of every kind. In tins sufficient to make 22 gallons of Wash. 1 to 5 tins, 3/- each ; 8 tins, 2/10 each ; 12 tins, 2/8 each ; 20 tins, 2/6 each ; 40 tins, 2/4 each. Carriage paid on orders of 15j- and up- wards to any station in Great Britain. Bentley's Weed Destroyers. Bentley's Fertilizers. Bentley's Insecticides. Bentley's Fungicides General Horticultural Sundries. For Complete Illustrated Catalogue apply to Sole Manufacturers : JOSEPH BENTLEY, Ltd. Chemical Works, BARROW - ON - HUMBER, HULL. SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMICALLY PREPARED. I n the form of a leat-mould, ready for use at any time, in the same way, and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes f jrtber(4 bushels equalling 15 cwts .), gives better result, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. A Beautiful Free Booklet giving full Particulars and testimonials sent on receipt of Postcard W BEWARE OF IMITATIONS. GENUINE ONLY IN OUR MARKED BAGS, CONTAINING GUARANTEED ANALYSIS. -« Cash Prices, 'nrluling bafts; Smalt (about 1 bushel), 3/-: Large (about 4 bushels). 7/.: 5 Large, 33 '9; 10 Large. 65/-; 20 Large, 120'- Carrlage Paid to any station within 1!5 miles of London, including delivery within free delivery radius of Railway Company. 6d. per bag extra lor every 5l> miles or part b-yonu. WAKELEV BROS. & CO., Ltd., 76a, BANK8IDE, LONDON, S.E.1. Largest Manufacturers of Flower Pots in the World. THE BEST AND CHEAPEST. SPECIAL POTS for Roses, Vines, Clematis, Orchids, and Chrysanthemums. Fancy Fern Pans and Bulb Bowls, from 4d. each. No Waiting ! All Orders executed the same day as received. State quantity of each size required, and have Carriage Paid quotation, or write for Illustrated Price List. RICHARD SANKEY & SON, LTD., Royal Potteries, BULWELL. NOTTINGHAM. Conny's CONCENTRATED Winter Dressing (NON-POISONOUS) FOR Fruit AND OTHER Trees. For the destruction of all Insect Pests that shelter in the Bark during the Winter Months. This Preparation is highly valued by Practical Growers throughout the Kingdom. DIRECTIONS FOR USE ACCOMPANY EACH PACKAGE. SOLD BY THE TRADE GENERALLY. Prices— Pints, 7/9; Quarts, 3/- ; J Gall , 4/9 ; I Gall., 8/6 ; 2 Galls., 76/-; 3 Galls., 27'-; 5 Galls., 32j- ; 10 Galls., 567-. Manufactured by C0RRY & Co., Ltd., LONDON. LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. WIPCOTT CRAZY PAYING (DEVON). Enquiries Invited. Delivered any Station. HENRY L. COOPER & GO., 29, Mark Lane, LONDON, E.C. "Phone 174 1 Central. Tel. Ay the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble 18% Citric Soluble 4 Insoluble N itrogen Equal to Amm'nia Soluble Potash . ,, >> 25 ,, 25 12 „ 12 Choice mixed varieties, without names BARR'S DWARF CRIMEAN IRISES Produce a wealth of rich colouring during March and April. 100 in 20 beautiful named varieties .. 42/- — 12 „ 6 „ „ •• •• 6/- — Mixed, without names .. .. .. per ioo, 35/- J per doz 11, 12 & 13, KING STREET, CO VENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.C.2 75/-, 100/- & 120/- 36'-, 48/- & 60/- 16/-, 24/- & 30/- 8/-, 12/- & 15/- per ioo, 45/- ; per doz., 6/- 5/- BARR & SONS, "IP FRI UTIRR " THE WORLD'S BEST MANURE. i-iLL, rrVLJllllLrV First at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:— 1 cwt., 30/- J-cwt., 16/6 ; 28 lbs., 9/-; 14 lbs., 5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6. 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE Rose Specialists FIRST The Champion Decorative Rose Grower " of England, R™ ELISHA J. HICKS. M.C.N.R.S., etc., OSES Hurst, Berks. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department Hardy Plants Colour Borders LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twerton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Gladioli and Liliums, etc., now ready. SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND m 51 El 51 El El El El El 51 '51 noted for over a Century for their hardiness and reli- ability. New alphabetically arranged Catalogue of more than usual interest, contain- ing helpful information, with Special Collections for all purposes. Free on request. Narseries Established 1785. KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. HEREFORD. 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 Garden Sundries CORRY & CO., Ltd. Shad Thames, S.E.i and Bedford Chambers Covent Garden, W.C.2 Merchants and Manufacturers of Horticultural Sundries Fertilizers and Insecticides, etc. J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening Ltd. W. H. GAZE & SONS High Street KINGSTON-ON-THAMES Landscape, Rock and Water Garden Model Gardens Portsmouth Road Surbiton J. CHEAL & SONS, Nurseries CRAWLEY Ltd. Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, I4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i &58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green 4 Hard Courts MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re -arranged . Plant- Ins plans for borders, etc. Terms on appH. cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice 4 I stints tes Free. SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, fiivinfi full cultural directions at Tompetitive prices, Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D.T.BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. V Tubs for shrubs. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak. etc. Highly deccrative.— Price List from Pradal & Co., 26, Goodge Street. London, W.l. El laEESSB SB tats BE \b [a Eta Is 13 Bushes & Trees for Sale. •GOOSEBERRIES, Careless and Whinhams 3 years, 40/- 1100 ; 2 years, 30/- 100 BLACK CURRANTS, Seabrook"s, 2 years 26/ WO. RED CURRANTS, Comets, 16.'- 100. WICTORJA PLUMS, 4 to 8 ft. high. APPLES, Brantley's. 'Newton'fl, Cox's, Worcester's, James Grieve, Irish Peach, 16/- •doz.; 26/- score; all maidens, assorted or separate. RASP- BERRY CANES, Perfection, 7/6 100. Carr. pd. (pass.) c.w.o. HUGH REAM, Fruit Grower, FRIDAYBRIDGE, WISBECH. Chrysanthemums and Perpetual Carnations Select List of the Best Varieties with cultural instructions post free. KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX. 0 for GUARANTEED quality Seeds, Plants. Manures, Weed and Pest Killers, Lawn Improvers, Sports WITH FREE PRACTICAL ADVICE A RITE TO Garden Supplies ltd bk&v... CRAMMER STREET. LIVERPOOL ON'S EES 4APES iES GRATIS TON BROS BEDFORD / SEEDS THAT SATISFY. " PERFECTA " Seeds and Highland-grown Seed Potatoes give satisfaction wherever they are grown, and they will satisfy YOU. They give bigger crops of Vegetables and Potatoes, and will make vour Flower Garden a place of beauty and a joy to all who behold it. " PERFECTA " Seeds mean perfect Crops and perfect Gardens. // you want Seeds that will satisfy, write for descriptive Catalogue, "MY B Ah DEN BOOK FOR 1923.' Post Free on application to ALEXANDER & BROWN, (Dept. B) The Scotch Seed House, PERTH. SPECIALITE. PLANT NOW SPRING FLOWERING TREES AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) Gauntlett & Co . Ltd., Japanese Nuvseries, Chiddingfold, E"urrev. The Shelley Sweet Peas COLLECTION A. - 16 Royal Scot, Picture, King Mauve, Hawlmark Pink, E. May Imp., Elegance, Charity, R. F. Felton, Warrior (12 seeds each). FULL LIST POST FREE. T. H. DIPNALL, F.R.H.S., Shelley, Hadleigh, Suffolk. GHEALS' NURSERIES Over IOO Acres. CHEALS' Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, in great variety ; Climbers, Forest Trees, etc. CHEALS' Roses; all sections. CHEALS' Fruit Trees ; hardy, healthy, true to name. CHEALS' Hardy Flowers for Borders, Bogs, Rock Gardens, etc. CHEALS' Dahlias a Speciality. CHEALS' Seeds, Bulbs and Sundries. Catalogues of each Department tree. CHEALS' Landscape Gardeners & Garden Architects. Designs prepared and advice given in any part. Illustrated Pamphlet free. J. CHEAL & SONS, Ltd., THE NURSERIES, CRAWLEY. January 13, 1923. ^W~s- E GARDEN. ! ^=5J*3* WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardv Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees (300,000), Alpines in pots, Perennial Irises (250,000).— John Waterer, Sons & Crisp, Ltd., Bagshot, Surrey ; TwyJord, Berks : and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert on p. viii. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15.— Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, chestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity, make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, l.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for Cropping and Exhibition purposes. Thirty of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 102:!. Post Free Copy on application. If interested, also ask for our Nursery List of Hardy Scotch Plants, Roses, Fruit Trees, etc THYNE & SON, Dept. G, Dundee. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. Special offer for this week : 1 doz. Border Carnations, to include Lady Shackleton and Sir Douglas Haig. All flrst-class varieties. Post free, 15/-. N.B.— Gladiolus list will be ready in January. CHOICE PYRETHEUMS, for glorious summer effect, should be planted NOW. We offer a splendid collection of 2 roots each of 6 splendid named varieties, price 6/-. post free. — GEORGE Elsom (Dept. F). Bulb & Seed Grower. Spalding. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — HODSON AND SON, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells & Co., M erst ham, Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection Invited. Price list post free on application. — Thos. Rivers & Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridgeworth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus — Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. JAPANESE BOWL GARDENS.— Miniature Figures, Pagodas, Huts ami Bridges, complete sample set. 7/6. New list post free. — Ferrf.st & 'Ward, 9-10. St. Mary-at-Hill. E.C.3. TURF FROM OLD PARK LAND FOR SALE. Quantities of 1 acre and upwards. £30 per acre. Buyer to cut and cart. — Leesons Farm, Chislehurst. BORDER CARNATIONS AND CLOVES. An invaluable booklet on the right cultivation of these beautiful flowers, by James Douglas, 9d. net, by post lid. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, London, W.C.2. BARRS' SEED GUIDE, now ready, free. For a Select List of the best Vegetable and Flower Seeds of finest Selected Strains and Tested Growth. At the R.H.S. Wisley Trials our Strains of Vegetable Seeds have received exceptional recognition for high quality, many having been Highly Commended and several given First-class Certificates and Awards of Merit Bare & Sons, 11, 12 & 13, Eing^Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.2. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations is now ready to plant. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorious scent. They flourish grandly in any part of Great Britain. Catalogues. — James Douglas, Border Carnation Specialist, Great Bookham. JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire: Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91 . CONTENTS F Gentians, Dzvarf and Tall Saxifraga Mira Holly, the Best Varieties of Pathside, Plants for the Favoured Gardens, Plants for Vegetable Seed Order A Beautiful Flowering Plum, Primus cerasi- fera var. Moseri Tuberous Ranunculi Notes of the Week Winter Effects ; The Journal of Pomology ; Dzvarf Broad Beans. Correspondence Chrysanthemum Tokio ; Magnolia Camp- bellii ; Shrub Sprays for Decoration ; Basket Ferns ; Winter Blossom ; Strazv- berries and Asparagus ; The " Perennial Cornflower " ; Winter Spraying ; Plants IS 16 17 1 8 10 20 21 22 Winter ; A Fine which Turn Gold Foxglove. The Use of Cloches . . Gardening of the Week The late S. T. Wright Answers to Correspondents Books : Our Birds . . ILLUSTRATIONS Broad Bean The Sutton Carrot New Intermediate Centaurea montana Cloches and Their Use Gentiana Freyniana G. Gentianella G. LagodeJiiana G. sino-ornata Ilex Aquijolium argentea marginata I. A. pendula Nephrolepis exaltata. . Potatoes King Edward and Great Scot Telopea speciosissima 25 26 22 20 24 25 16 15 16 16 18 17 23 21 19 SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools; a perfect fertiliser; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and WJrework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists. — Botjlton and Paul, Limited. Norwich. SUTTON'S VEGETABLE SEEDS. By constant selection and re-selection year by year, our choice strains are maintained at the highest standard of excellence. Our speciality for the week : PEA, SUTTON'S EARLY GIANT. Pods large, very handsome and produced in great profusion ; flavour superb. Per pint, 2s. 6d. ; quart, 4s. 6d. SUTTON & SONS, THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, READING NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S LOVELY PEONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupines, Gaillardias, Phloxes, Paeonies. etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Rosea now ready. — Write for descriptive Catalogues to KELWAY and Son. The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. DOBBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogue and Guide to Gardening, free, if this paper is mentioned. BATH'S HOME GROWN BULBS.— New niustrated Catalogue of the finest Narcissi, Hyacinths, Tulips, etc., as supplied to the Royal Parks and Gardens, with full cultural directions. Is now ready, and will be sent post free on application.— {Dept. E), R. H. Bath, Limited, The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS.— New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to* Allotment Societies. — (Dept. E), R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free.— Moorton, 65, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees, Shrubs. Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior it SON, Ltd., Colchester. CHOICE NEW CHRYSANTHEMUMS. Our New Catalogue of over 700 varieties, including 50 Novelties for 1923 ; also including finest Dahlias, Pelargoniums, etc., is now ready, post free on application. — J. W. Cole & Son, Chry- santhemum Nurseries, Peterborough. ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free . TERRY LEE, F.R.H.S., 16, Morden ltd., Stechford, Birmingham. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10 6 each. Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chichester. WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small trees, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 19/6 per mile (full 1,760 yards). Send for trial lot or samples to-day.— Green's Surplus Stores, 205, Seymour Road, Lytham. PRIVET & THORN.— Also Rhododendrons, Heathers and Alpines. Send for List.— Hodsons Limited. 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection of the best Vegetable and choicest strains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices, is now ready and will be sent free on application.— J. R. Pearson & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. SHOW AND REGAL PELARGONIUMS.— Strong, clean, healthy plants from 3in. pots. 12 fine named varieties 7/6. Newer ones. 10/- and 12/- per dozen. Novelties of 1920, 15/- per dozen. All free by parcels post for cash with order, or carr. paid per passenger train in Leatherboard pots, 2/6 per dozen extra. Catalogues extra.—,!. W. COLE & Son, Midland Road Nursery, Peterborough. GREENHOUSE PAINTING AND GLAZING. — " Vitrolite," superior to White Lead Paint, 18/6 per gallon ; cans extra. " Plastine," the Imperishable Putty, 32/ perewt.; kegs extra; 71b. tins, 4/3, post free; 141b. tins, 5/6 each, carriage extra, tins free.— Full particular? from W. CARSON AND Sons, Grove Works, Battersea THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. EVERYTHI NG FOR THE GARDEN & LAWN SUPPLIED BY FLOWER SEEDS. VEGETABLE SEEDS, LAWN GRASS SEEDS, FERTILISERS, WORMKILLER, Etc. ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE of SEEDS Now Ready. Write for a Copy. JAMES CARTER & Co., SEEDSMEN to H.M. THE KING, RAYNES PARK, LONDON, S.W. Branches : — 237 & 238, HIGH HOtBORN, W.C.1 53a, QUEEN VICTORIA STREET, E.C.4. GET TOOGOOD'S 10/6 Collection of " Better Crops" VEGETABLE SEEDS and have a better Garden than ever before. It includes the very cream of the world's best varieties, and ensures in that Garden of yours delicious fresh Vegetables to share and to spare all the year round. In no other way can so many good things be obtained for so little cost. It contains : — 2 pints Peas $ pint Broad Beans I pint Dwarf French Beans ^ pint Runnei Beans i packet Bei I 1 packet Borecole 2 packets Broccoli 1 packet Brussels Sprouts ■2 packets Cabbage 2 packets Carrot 1 packet Cauliflower 1 packet Celery 1 oz. Cress 1 packet Cucumber 1 packet Endive 1 packet Leek 2 packets Lettuce 1 oz. Mustard 2 packets Onion 1 packet Parsley 1 packet Parsnip 1 packet Sage ■J packets Kadish 1 packet Savoy 2 packets Spinacb 1 packet Tomato 2 packets Turnip 1 packet Vegetable Marrow OTHER COLLECTIONS TO SUIT VARIOUS SIZES OF GARDENS, each 3/6 to £3 3s. , and all carriage Paid. Get this Free Guide: Write to-day for our FREE GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM & GUARANTEED GARDEN SEEDS. Beautifully illustrated, and containing everything in the way of seeds worth growing. Every packet ordered thence must grow for you and please you, or you will get it replaced freely. Address us personally: TOOGOOD & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and Growers of "Better Crops " Seeds only, SOUTHAMPTON. CALENDAR- 1923- JANUARY FEBRUARY s it I'n 5 ■■ ft V MARCH APRIL. S '■1 1 s '• " '■• ■;: 1-1 s * ■■ ., . MAY. JUNE s s 1 ' m 1 *f JULY S AW ti^' SUTTON'S SPECIAL COLLECTIONS OF GARDEN PEAS Consist of some of our best varieties, which, under suitable conditions of culture, should produce a succession of the finest Marrowfat Peas. r' 5LCEMBER. Sutton's Pioneer Sutton's Early Giant Sutton's Seld. Dukr oi Albany Sutton's King Edward Sutton's Peerless Sutton's Seld. Ne Plus Ultra Sutton's Continuity Sutton's Late Queen Per Collection Or other choke varieties. 2 Quarts of each 1 Quart of each 1 Pint of each 58 - 30 - 16 - SUTTON & SONS The King's Seedsmen READING SUTTON'S Record Improvements in GARDEN PEAS Could the history of the evolution of the Garden Pea be written it would afford a story of unusual interest. At one time the varieties available scarcely exceeded a dozen in number, and these produced peas of a quality which would now be considered only fit for boiling in a dry state. But in the hands of experts such won- derful improvements have been achieved that the high-class Peas of the present day re- semble their progenitors in hardly any one characteristic. Not less remarkable than the attainment of superb table quality is the extraordinary development in the size of the pods and the peas in them. Our well-known Pea, The V.C., is the largest-podded variety in cultivation, and customers have grown magnificent pods up to nine inches in length. The duration of the Pea crop has also been greatly extended, and by growing suitable varieties it is now possible to obtain sup- plies from the open ground from May to November. ^^wteu t * No. 2669.— Vol. LXXXVII.] [January 13, 1923. GENTIANS, DWARF AND TALL Their Value and Culture. LAST week we considered very briefly some of the most useful plants belonging to the Borage Order — an Order remark- able for the admirable blue-flowered ^ plants it contributes to the garden. This week we purpose passing in review some of the more effective species and varieties of the Gentian family, Iwhich provides us with the richest and most velvety blues any flower affords. It is rather astonishing that to many gardeners the name Gentian brings to mind little else than the great Gentianella, which they call (or mis- call) Gentiana acaulis. The beauty of this plant no one can gainsay, but it has no right to monopolise to itself the glory of all the Gentians. The gardener who can grow the Gentianella, or rather who succeeds with it, is apt to be a little tolerant of those less fortunate in this respect. This Gentian is certainly a whimsical plant. It misled even the late Reginald Farrer, who seriously recommends to grow it in deeply worked kitchen- garden soil, with an abundance of lime rubble. He lays stress upon the last mentioned ingredient. Now the writer has grown this plant in light, hungry soil, destitute of lime and it spread into and flourished in the gravel path. It would seem then that it is a very accommodating plant. Failure to grow almost always indicates impure air, due to the proximity of a manufacturing area. Failure to flower may be due to too rich soil, but often means only that a poor strain has been obtained. The Gen- tianella, though pro- bably of hybrid origin, reproduces itself fairly true from seeds, but unquestionably some of the seedlings are as shy to bloom as others are free. There are, besides colour forms, several named varieties in commerce and some have extra large flowers. Free- dom to blossom, how- ever, is more important than size of pip and gardeners who cannot flower the plant well would be well advised to try several different stocks in the hope of improving matters. Linnasus's Gentiana acaulis covers a number of somewhat dissimilar species, as well as the Gentianella. G. vulgaris is usually met with in gardens as G. Clusii. It has very handsome upstanding trumpets of a glorious azure blue. In cultivation it is not difficult in a well drained limy soil or, preferably, in the limestone moraine. G. latifolia on the other hand is the peat-loving G. Kochiana of gardens. The colour of the species is variable, but is generally dull and not seldom muddy. It is easily recognised by the rather large and distinctly floppy yellowish foliage. G. angustifolia may easily be distinguished by its long narrow bright green leaves. The whole plant is taller than we should expect in the acaulis kindred and the flowers, though not large, are a beautiful blue. The limestone moraine is the best place for it when it can be obtained. G. excisa, which is nearest to the Gentianella of gardens, is a comparatively rare species in the Alps and rarely offered by the trade. It has ample very dark green glossy foliage and stout comparatively tall GLORIOUS BLUE TRUMPETS OF THE GENTIANELLA. flower stems and, above all, wide mouthed trumpets of a glorious blue. In a light gravelly loam this is not a difficult species to establish if plants can be procured. Others of the acaulis kindred are GG. dinarica and occidentalis, both beautiful in their native mountains, but hardly likely to be procured unless, perchance, from seed. Practically every lover of alpine plants has tried G. verna. Many can keep it alive for a year or so ; comparatively few really succeed with it. It seems to like a rather light gritty compost with an admixture of peat or leaf-mould. It certainly likes the company of other plants. It will even struggle with and hold its own against the rampant Campanula Portenschlagiana ! but smaller growers are abundant. Saxifraga oppositifolia is a very suitable companion, so are some of the small Alyssums. The plant's great enemy in our low- land gardens is winter wet, which accounts for its comparative ease of culture in the alpine house. Of the other small Gentians of the European Alps, G. bavarica is perhaps the most lovely in its intensely dark velvety flowers. The foliage is yellowish and the flower stems taller than those of G. verna. It needs bog conditions in summer, but not in winter. If these can be provided in gritty, peaty soil, it is not really difficult either to establish or to flower. It is, naturally, easier in pans in the alpine house than in the open rock garden. G. brachyphylla, which replaces G. verna at the high levels, is more compact than that species and there is a distinctly glaucous look about the foliage. It flowers in July and, strangely enough, man y gavdeners find it an easier plant to establish than G. verna. G. imbricata which replaces G. bavarica at higher altitudes is a miniature of that beautiful species, but exceedingly difficult to grow, even in the alpine house. From the Roof of the 16 THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. World 'Mines a very distinct set oi alpine Gentians which are now becoming common in the bettet collections of alpines. Of these G. Farreri may be takes as typical. Farrer writes of it : " As you see G. Farreri coming into bloom in mid- September on all the high-alpine sward of the Da-Tung chain (Northern Kansu-Tibet), it is by far the most astoundingly beautiful of its race, reducing G. vema and G. Gentianella to the dim- mest acolytes." As we grow it in Britain it cer- tainly does not compare for spjendour with eithei of the species named. To begin with the fine light green foliage, perhaps more beautiful in itself than the stiff green tufts of the Gentianella, seems a less satisfactory background for the azun trumpets. Again, the fierce luminous Cambridge blue which Farrer described — probably less " fierce " in cultivation — lacks the velvety depth of G. Gentianella. None the less this is a magnifi cent autumn-flowering species — the quaint striping of the buds reminds one of an Ipoma;a. Outdoors it likes a gritty but moist cool soil. It is grown to perfection in the rock garden at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, and as at least one firm in the trade holds an immense stock of it, it is readily procurable. G. sino-ornata, which is an equally easy doer, is very similar in general appearance even to the striping of the outsides of the flowers. It is none the less quite distinct. This also is an autumn-flowering species. G. Kurroo, which, at long last, received a few months ago the R.H.S. award of merit, is seen to much greater advantage on a shelving ledge in the rock garden than in a pot on the exhibition table. From a central, umnultiplying tuft of long narrow strap-like leaves one or two flower stems radiate in late summer. These are, at first, horizontal, but they ultimately sweep gracefully upward to display the large trumpets of a rich gentian blue, lighter in the throat. It is easily understood that with its stems gathered up to stakes for security, a potted plant loses much of its grace and individuality. In the garden, G. Kurroo likes a hot exposure, but not drought. As it is inconvenient to supply water underground all over the rock garden, this usually means a site in a sun-kissed corner of the moraine. Now without bothering about any more Asiatic high alpines, let us consider awhile the taller-growing lowland species. First of all we have the Willow Gentian, G. asclepiadea, which makes a poor picture in black and white, but is, when well grown, undoubtedly lovely, with long bending sheaves of sapphire blossom. It likes a deep, cool soil, but does not seem greatly to trouble whether this be light or heavy. Like most of its kindred, the Willow Gentian is very variable as regards blossom colour. Some of the drab-coloured varieties in commerce are quite unworthy of cultivation. G. septemfida obviously belongs to the same section as the Willow Gentian, but is a dwarfer grower. The 9-in. long steins are fragile, and look more fragile than they are. The soft blue flowers are much larger and more widely expanded than in 1, asclepiadea This is an easy plant to establish in a cool corner in soil containing abundance of humus. G. Lagodechiana (illustrated) is practically .1 dwarf form of this, equally easy to grow and wonderfully beautiful. G. Freyniana is also closely related to septemfida, but dwarfer and quite distinct in every way G. Andrewsii is another I I. mi belonging to thi >ection and a very easy doer. It is, however, oi more botanical than gardening interest G. Pneumonanthe is .1 British native and to that extent better worth cultivating than some of the dowdy species from far off lands. Not that G. I 'inn an the ran properly bi described as dowdy, though it is not a particularly showy plant. The exterior of the trumpet-shaped blossoms (which in THE TRAILING SOFT BLUE FLOWERS OF GENTIANA LAGODECHIANA. MASSES OF GENTIANA FREYNIANA. AZURE BLOSSOMS OF GENTIANA SINO-ORNATA. January 13, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 17 the garden is the more noticeable), is a dull greenish blue, but the interior colouring is rich and velvety. The best form, a foreign one, is known as ('.. P. arvensis, but there is also a very attractive albino. Closely related is the little dwarf G. glauca, with grey foliage and green and blue blossoms. G. linearis again is a New World species also belonging to this section growing i£ft. tall with small clustered heads of whitish blossoms — not one of the most attractive species though well enough in its way. To quite another section belongs the stalwart yellow Gentian of the alpine meadows — G. lutea. The plant is of economic importance, for to its root we owe one of the best and most harmless stomach tonics known. It should have a deep and rich but open soil and be grown in groups rather than as single specimens, when the hand- some corrugated foliage and starry golden flowers are really effective. None of the others of this section is worth growing. THE BEST VARIETIES OF HOLLY THE Holly is a singularly useful tree, since it provides the strongest of boundary hedges and one that will grow beneath the shade of trees where the Quickthorn, for instance, would fail. It is invaluable, too, for undergrowth — it will grow, if the ground be properly prepared, under Scots Pines and other conifers. Many varieties of the Common Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) and some of the species make exceedingly handsome specimens, with rich glossy foliage. The beauty of the female Common Holly when wreathed in brilliant berries needs no com- mendation. Even the derelicts of our London slums are familiar with the leaf and berry of Holly. The handsomest of green varieties of the Common Holly is called camelliasfolia. The dark glossy leaves are sometimes sins, long, but relatively as variety altaclerensis. Wilsoni is another huge- leaved variety — and female. The variety known as scotica might almost be called a smaller-leaved edition of camelliasfolia. Spined leaves are even less frequent upon this variety than upon the last mentioned. Another remarkable, almost spineless variety is that called the Donnington Holly (variety donningtonensis), which has narrow, oblong, purplish leaves and purple bark. This is a male variety, but very handsome. Variety Smithii is similar but less effective, as it lacks the purple bark and purplish foliage. Very distinct is the form called latispina, also with purple bark and with very long and slender spines Monstrosa has similar long slender spines, but more of them, frequently eight to ten to each A REMARKABLE SAXIFRAGE THE late Reginald Farrer was much more of a collector of plants from the wild than a plant breeder and hybridist, and as a collector he had an extra- ordinary eye for special forms and varieties. But he writes amusingly in his books of certain crosses which he made among Saxifrages and of his rather haphazard methods in not record- ing the parentage of these crosses. Yet he achieved one hybrid at least of first-class importance in Saxifraga Mira. We all remember what a flutter went round when the charming little S. Irvingii made its appearance at Kew, the first pink hybrid Irom S. Burseriana. I saw a picture and an account of it in The Garden one morning, and caught the next train to Kew to pay my respects to it. S. Irvingii will always remain a first-class plant ; it is so neat and thrifty, so good a grower and so free to flower. Moreover, its flowers are a pure delicate pale shell pink. But Irvingii having made the stir it did, imagine my feelings when I came upon a hybrid of the same persuasion as Irvingii, but with slightly larger flowers of a bright rich cherry red — -the colour almost of Poten- tilla Willmotta. I was paying a hurried passing visit to Farrer's Craven Nursery. Farrer was away on his last fatal expedition. In one of the nursery- frames among a lot of odd mixed treasures were eight or nine little pot plants of this wonderful new hybrid in full flower. I could hardly believe my eyes,' and the picture of those astonishing little plants haunted the back of my mind for days after. Farrer had named the plant Mira, but I have never been able to discover for certain what was its parentage. Rather more than a year later, after Farrer's death, I received through the kindness of Mrs. Farrer the major portion of the stock, and on flowering it here I find that there are two distinct forms, one of which is a much darker richer red than the other. The lighter form has been shewn and received the R.H.S. award of merit, and there has been enough of it tor distribution. Of the darker better form there was very little, and at present it is unshewn and unpublished. The two forms are identical except in the matter of colour, but in colour they are very distinct, and the darker form will have to have some distinguishing name. S. Mira is a •slow grower, but of sound, reliable constitution. It is close and hard and compact in growth, larger in the rosette than Irvingii ; broader, blunter and jjreener in the leaf, and larger in the flower. Stevenage. Clarence Elliott. THE WEEPING FORM OF THE COMMON HOLLY, ILEX AQUIFOLIUM PENDULA . narrow and are, for the most part, spineless, though some have a few spines towards the tips. This form makes an attractive columnar tree. It is female, but does not berry at all freely. The variety Hodginsii has leaves much larger and darker than those of the typical plant, also shorter in their proportioning. The individual leaves are glossy, but there is something " dead " in the gloss, so that the tree, as a whole, lacks the " finish " of camelliafolia. This is a female variety and berries freely. It is much confused in nurseries with the variety Shepherdii, which has leaves similar in form and probably larger on the average, but brighter in colouring. A weeping form of the Common Hoily is not uncommon in hedgerows. Such weeping olants may be either male or female, but the form stocked in nurseries as variety pendula is a beautiful weeping form which berries freely. This Holly is much admired by many people who do not ordin- arily care for weeping trees. There are silver and golden forms of this Weeping Holly, the former usually listed as Perry's Weeping and the latter as aurea pendula. A fine large-leaved male Holly with purplish bark is known as the Highclere Holly or (latinised) leaf. The Hedgehog Holly (var. ferox), is another variety with purple bark. Leaves are on the small side and crumpled. Besides the marginal spines of the Common form, there are clusters of short spines on the upper surface of the leaf. This is a male variety. There are forms of this curious variety with leaves variegated with silver and gold respectively. The silver form seems permanent enough, but the gold one has a tendency to revert to the green hedgehog form. All three are, perhaps, more curious than beautiful. Two other " freak " varieties are called crispa and crassifolia. The former has its leaves, which have, as a rule, few spines, spirally twisted. Crassifolia — often called the Leather-leaved Holly — has shoots and foliage curiously thickened and succulent in appearance. The young shoots are purple. Neither ol these forms has any particular beauty. The variegated forms of the Common Holly are interesting and some of them really beautiful, but like m:>st variegated plants they are easily " over- done " in the garden. The two handsomest of these coloured forms are probably Golden Queen and Silver Queen, especially the latter. Both, oddly enough, are male varieties. In both, the variegation is clearly marked, bright in colour and 18 THE GARDEN. [January 13, 192 ; broad. Of the white-margined Hollii I worth New Silver is probably th ' hand omi Like most of the silver-margined sorts it is and fruits moderately well. ["he Silver and Golden " Milkmaii heavj central bands of colour surrounded !i\ an margin. They are much In in -nme gardens. Maie and female plan'- oi either are procurable. VVaterer's Holly is a dwarf compact sort, very dense in habit and its foliage scarcely spiny. The latter is very dark green. sharply margined rather bronzy gold. There are great numbers of species ol Hi which perhaps the best known is I. crenata, th the Canary Island Holly. I. platyphylla is no partly responsible for many of the so-called oi I. Aquifolium already described. The leaves are much larger than those of our own specie^ and the gloss on the foliage seems shallower and less translucent. The sub-species balearica has smaller foliage than the type and, as grown, is usually — perhaps always — female. It is almost certainly hardier than the typical plant, but not very hardy at that. It is worth noting that even the Commi a Holly is not among the hardiest of plants. Young, immatun » 1 is, often cut by frost and in very severe winter-, such as, happily, few of this generation have experienced, is sometimes killed outright. Nearly related to the Balearic form is the variety madeirensis, with brighter foliage. Ilex crenata is the Japanese Holly, with leaves seldom exceeding Jin. in length. It grows into a shrub 3ft. or 4ft. tall and might easily be taken at a little distance for a small-leaved Osmanthus. The form known as major attains, in time, the stature of a small tree and has rather larger l< avi -. This probably is the typical form of the species, the specific form as we know it being a form selected by the Japanese, whose fondness for dwarf is notorious. How- ever this may be there is a form much smaller even than the one English botanists regard as typical. This is called Mariesii, of which the growth is extraordinarilv slow and congested. It is, therefore, quite a usi lul -'nub for the rock gardi a. The Japanese- Holly has black fruits. Ilex Pernyi is another small-leaved species, ultimately attaining the dimensions of a small tree. The foliage is not unlike that of our English Holly, very much reduced in size and the fruits are red. Ilex opaca is the American Holly. It also is red fruited but, com- pared with our native tree. has little beauty. The Himalayan Holly, T. dipy- rena is. oddly enough, somewhat similar. This also is undoubtedly interior to I. Aquifolium in beauty. For our western sea- there is the re- nin ! able I. insignis. The oblong leaves are of im- size — up to 'litis. long, dark green with a prominent pale green mid-rib. It has bright red fruits, I. integra, known in gardens as Othera japonica, is remarkable as a large-leaved entirely spinele - Holly. The fruits, winch arc bright red. are remarkable for their size — Jin. in dian It should be hardy in any but very bleak localities. I latifolia from Japan, is an exceedingl) species with huge lustrous green leaves and large bright red fruits, abundantly produced. It is, unfortunately, hardy only in the south. There are several other evergreen species and a number of deciduous ones which were formerly 'ailed Prinos. They do not agree with an Englishman's idea of Holly and need not te mentioned here. PLANTS FOR THE PATHSIDE WHILE it is never good 1 to allow a path to become other than what it is intended to be. to neutralise its proper fum ti in as a path by allowing shrubs .mi', plants to trespass too far over its course, it is just as easy to err in the opposite direction 1>\ insisting upon too much formality and discipline. A happy medium may, however, often be attained between these extremes, and we have found that a judicious selection of plants, set in as natural a manner as possible along our walks, whether these are in the rock garden, the woodland or Isewhere, add a great charm and interest to such places. Incidentally, they save considerable labour by occupying space which would otherwise be a sanctuary for weeds, while they themselves rarely, if ever, require any attention. These paths, I may add, are not paved or otherwise made up. For the most part they are merely faced with .1 little local gravel and firmed down. We have, to give a few examples, wide. spreading mats of several of the finer Acamas, A USEFUL VARIEGATED HOLLY, ILEX AQUIFOLIUM ARGENTEA MARGINATA. the pale emerald A. Buchanani and the bronzy A. microphylla (inermis) being perhaps the most suitable, and neither of these offend as some others, do by distributing their dry burrs upon clothes. These Acamas positively seem to like being walked upon, they are rapid growers, beautiful at all seasons and adaptable for sun or shade Yet they never intrude upon the main footwav of the path, for the excellent reason that their leading points are ever being nipped oft by the feet of passers-by. Hardly less may be said of the Cotulas. especially the New ."'ealander which endures the specific title of squalida. This makes a dense and delight- ful carpet of overlapping, fern-like, hairy leaves which will creep over the fiat, mound over stones or clothe a vertical and not too drv an edging with the tenacity of Liverwort. It is a fast and vigorous grower, content almost anywhere, but as it is liable to become a nuisance among choicer plants, the woodland or shrubbery walk is the place for it. Yet another little creeping plant that may be a devastating pest in one spot and a thing of delicate and irresistible charm in another is Helxine Solierolii. Though a Corsican, this species will endure any but extremely inclement winters, and even if it should be apparently extinguished by frost its vitality is so great that the merest scrap that survives will spread into a mat- of verdure the following summer. H. Solierolii has. the same clinging habit as Arenaria balearica, but its glossy, lettuce-green leaves are larger and, as for its blossoms, these are so minute that they simply cover the plant with a sprinkling of gold .lust. An admirable path plant for associating with the smaller native Ferns, Welsh Poppy and other things which will thrive along the shady margins of a woodland walk ! The above-mentioned Arenaria is well enough known as ideal for all manner of places which require a minute and close-growing creeper. Few- plants , are more charming than this when the rocks which border some cool and shady path and even the pathside itself are veiled with its. delicate tracery of green, bristling with perky little milk-white flowers. A plant that will prosper under similar con- ditions and equally attractive is Mentha Kequieni, a most dainty mite which appears, as if spon- taneously, in all manner of places about our cooler and damper paths. It grows perfectly flat, spreading like a film of moss upon level ground, sowing itself liberally every year and rewarding each passer-by with a whiff of its minty and pungent fragrance. Though not hardy, we can always rely upon some fresh seedlings of M. Requiem appearing to make good winter losses, and these grow so fast that they will usually be covered with the tiny mauve flowers — probably the most minute in cultivation — before the season is over Mazus Pumilio is also a prostrate little plantling which enjoys a cool spot. It creeps about by means of underground runners and presents us with short, stubby heads of musk-like flowers, usually of a bluish lilac hue. The foliage is a January 13, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 19 pleasing shade of green, and a healthy specimen of M. Pumilio will grow into a close-set carpet. We have found M. Pumilio to be rather impatient of niii winters, as is its near relation the lovely, pure white, violet-eyed Mazus (Mimulus) radicans. The latter, however, being a marsh plant is nut generally suitable for path culture, though some remarkable results have been obtained in ordinary moist or peaty loam. Another brace of interesting little carpeting plants which are not difficult in a fairly moderate climate are Pratia angulata and P. begonifolia The former (syn. Lobelia littoralis) makes a spread- ing cushion of fleshy, oval leaves which it decks with white, starry flowers followed by blue-purple berries in autumn. The latter is larger in every way, with round, hairy leaves and plum-coloured fruits. Both plants seem to apprec;ate a shady and sheltered nook, and there are one or two other kinds listed by the best nurserymen which fully deserve a trial. Among the happiest of the plants which adorn our woodland paths are Saxifraga cuneifolia in one or two forms and S. Geum with its round, dentate leaves held stiffly on long, narrow stems. The former is a vigorous, hearty little plant which will quickly cover a wide space with a jostling crowd of dark green rosettes and hold its own with most things. It enjoys a cool, sun-screened place, as does the other, and both produce elegant sprays of white flowers like miniature London Prides. Other members of this clan also crop up at times about the sides of the paths where a mossy stump or rock affords a suitable resting place for seed. One of the prettiest of these I strongly suspect to be the offspring of SS. Geum and umbrosa, but one hesitates to speculate further into the mysteries of these charming colonists. Some of the creeping Toadflaxes are admirable for the margins of such walks as are enjoyed by lovers of cool and moist conditions, and these will often thrive as well on the flat as among rocks. One of the most beautiful is Linaria hepaticoefolia, with large, fleshy leaves and violet flowers. But even more choice are L. pallida with big clear lavender, fragrant blossoms and its exquisite white form. Very dainty also is the shy little L. a?qui- triloba, which will cling to a vertical rock face and prove a suitable companion for some of those more lowly creepers mentioned earlier. Though often a very murrain in the rock garden, these Toadflaxes can be put to such a use as is here suggested, when their undeniable beauty may be appreciated at its full worth. Many of the dwarfer Ericas are good for skirting a walk where conditions are suitable, and for a partly shaded corner where there is some natural moisture nothing can be more delightful than a patch of Gaultheria trichophylla. Along with such shrublets as these we have also used Spira?a decumbens, Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, Bryanthus empetriformis and the always welcome Polygala Chamamuxus in several varieties. Waldsteinia trifolia, with yellow flowers like a Potentilla, and Tiarella cordifolia will make a cheerful and harmonious blend of colour and form, and for a sunny place in poor, hot soil a few plants of Dianthus deltoides'and DD. graniticus and caesius will soon establish hearty colonies which will give a bright display throughout the greater part of summer and autumn. Nor could one find a better site for the prostrate Thymes than along the margin of some sunny path, with a tuft of Hypericum coris or little colony of Tunica Saxifraga fl. pi., or Veronicas Trehane, Bidwillii or rupestris to lend " character " to the effect. Indeed, one might extend this list indefinitely, for not only is the selection of suitable plants a vast one, but paths vary enormously in their nature, in width and situation, and each one, or section of one, will demand its own treatment and particular clas^ of planting. To give one final example, I know a shady woodland garden walk whose margin-, right to the footway, are carpeted with moss. In the moss are several varieties of dwarf Ferns, singly and in groups, .iihl along with these are little colonics of hardy Cyclamens and here and there a patch of Wood Sorrel, both the type species and the exqui ite rose form. There is little or nothing more, 1. perhaps a few Snowdrops for the early year, yet one could hardly desire a more restful and beautiful bit of path planting, the very simplicity ol which is one of its most entrancing features. Ncrlh Wale . A. T. J. PLANTS FOR FAVOURED GARDENS ! (.1 previous article on this subject appeared in- the issue for December 2. last, page 602.) F the common large-leaved Mesembryanthe- mums, such as the one which hangs in huge mats down the Lizard cliffs, were the only sorts hardy enough for English gardens, one might without much loss ignore the whole tribe, except for wild gardens in favoured places, for these are, most of them, too coarse and rampant for ordinary- garden use. But some of the smaller sorts are ot such good habit and such vivid beauty as to deserve a conspicuous place in any garden mild enough for their survival. The dazzling orange M. aurantiacum is hardy enough to stand at least mild winters in favoured Cornish gardens, and the same applies to some of the grey -leaved sorts with small flowers of a cool pink. Imagine a rock face or a wall of grey. weathered granite and against it low cushions a yard or two across entirely made of flowers shaped like those of Aster Amellus, some white, some flushed, some deep violet rose, and one of a magenta so splendidly intense and pure that it would soon fatigue the eye. One of the best of all is micans, a. small flower of a rare orange scarlet overlaid with a sheen of violet. I wish someone who has tried these in an English garden over a period of years would tell readers of The Garden of their experience. Am I right in thinking that there are many gardens in the south-west near the sea where a number of the species, including those I have referred to, survive or would survive out of doors ? At any rate, if hard weather does come, " Mesems " are the easiest of plants to save — any morsel stuck into a sandy box will grow. Bits shoved into almost earthless chinks of a wall will make strong tufts in a season or two. A note of Mr. Woodall's in these columns some years ago put me on the track of Olearia Traversii, and I can gratefully bear out what he said of this very useful evergreen tree for gardens near the sea. It gows fast, stands any amount of wind, and while it cannot compete with the showy treasures of Cornish gardens, it is certainly most attractive in a suitable place. I know it best in a garden where it stands on either side of a broad slide of THE BRILLIANT CRIMSON FLOWER HEAD OF SPECIOSISSIMA. TELOPEA L^r.n lite backed by grey rocks, with its silvered leaves bright against the sea. I gather that this is a plant hardy enough even for the north-east of Scotland, provided that it is near the sea. Olearia macrodonta is another Olearia that stands a lot of wind. It makes an excellent fast- growing hedge, stands cutting fairly well and, unlike O. Traversii, is beautiful in flower, yet this is not a plant 1 can care much about. It often looks rather stale and dusty, as if t needed freshening up after an August spent near a motoring road. O. semidentata, on the other hand, keeps its freshness always, till it gets very old and scraggy. Few shrubs are more beautiful in leaf. Not even Senecio compacta or Teucrium latifolium has a finer grey. When I see these 20 THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. grey-leaved plants scattered about a garden I always want to group them together so that they may help each other. It is then that contrasts of form (such as Yucca recurva glauca spiking up behind a bank of Senecios) can make their fullest Moreover, a sufficiently broad grey bark ground makes the perfect foil for many more conspicuous plants, especially for bulbous plants of distinctive form or colour. I have never seen the greenish white bells of Hyacinthus candicans look better than in the company ot Olearia Traversii and the shrubs I have mentioned, just as Teucrium fruticans (on a wall) makes an ideal backing for Gladiolus primulinus, especially the pale yellow forms. It is odd that nurserymen do not more commonly offer Pittosporum crassifolium, for it is easily raised from seed, and good seed (unlike that of the nearly related P. Fairchildi) is freely borne. It ought to be easy to supply pot plants at not more than, say, 24s. or 30s. a dozen. The plant is certainly one of the best of all for a tall hedge in wind-swept gardens near the sea ; better even than Escallonia macrantha, in that it robs the ground much less. It is perfectly evergreen, will stand a lot of overshadowing, and survives even the first shock of Atlantic gales unhurt. It is very beautiful in form and colour of leaf, the maroon-crimson flowers, though not showy, are pleasant to see, and the green seed-pods make a most decorative addition to the pattern. If it were better known I feel sure that P. crassi- folium would be largely used for hedges in seaside gardens here, as it is in New Zealand. P. eugenioides, which spreads a delicious scent of honey through the garden in winter, stands the wind much less well. P. tenuifolium is also well worth growing, if only for its scent, and the well known Silver Queen is very decorative in its odd way. I have referred before in these columns to Prostanthera violacea, which makes a tall cloud of. violet purple in favoured gardens in spring. This is a plant which will surely be commonly grown for indoor decoration when it is better known. In a white or grey room a plant of it in a pot is at least as effective as a very good Scbizanthus, and it is perennial and needs little, if any, staking. Psoralea pinnata is another splendid plant for a favoured garden. It grows very rapidly into a tall bush of narrow leaves with a profusion of bright rosemary-blue, pea-shaped flowers in May. Even this, though too large a grower for small rooms, would, I imagine, make a fine plant for indoor decoration in an entrance hall or a conservatory. Many would pass by a bush of Pentapterygium rugosum when in flower, for its hanging horn- coloured lanterns pencilled with red, lovely as they are in detail, are not very conspicuous ; but few would pass by P serpens even when out of flower, for its serpentine trails are arresting and queei even when they are not hung with lanterns ol scarlet. The flowers of this are bright vermilion with a pencilling of deeper colour. The plant will grow as a bush, but perhaps looks better against a wall. Pieris formosa i> .1 lovely sight in May when a 1 all dark green bush of it becomes smothered with white plumes. It is worthy of a choice place even in a garden mild enough to grow Clethra arborea to perfection. I was glad to see that in the notes ot Mr. Coutt? v Inch to me always seem one of the most valuable ires of Thi Rhododendron Lady Vlice Fitzwilliam has twice been recommended as a plant for the cool greenhouse. In favoured ens, in Somerset as in Cornwall, this does splendidly out of doors, but elsewhere it could easily be grown in any garden where the buds could be sheltered from more than a few de of frost. Perhaps some reader who has a green- house full of the conventional Primulas, Geranium; and Cinerarias, with may be a plant or two of Azalea and Cytisus fragrans as the only shrubs, will feel tempted to try a plant of this incompar- able Rhododendron, for it adds to the beauty of it< white trumpet flowers and pink flushed buds the advantage of a scent as good as that of Honey- suckle. It is quite easy to grow even in a chalk country if the pot is watered with rain water, and it will not grow too large for a greenhouse staging. Another sort which is more beautiful than an army of Calceolarias is R. ciliic.alyx ; this is unscented. Its huge flowers are white or pale pink, slightly ruffled and of a wonderful texture. This does all right out of doors in favoured gardens, but even there it is better grown under gla>- as the flowers are too large and fragile to stand buffeting by winds. Will someone who has had experience of growing greenhouse Rhododendrons out of doors contribute some note- ? R. Sesterianum, R. Counb Haddington and some others ic.:'.. Gibsonii) certainly do well. I want to learn about sorts such as Forsterianura, Veitchianum and Prii Alice. Is there any chance of success with the Javanese hybrids ? I will end these notes with a suggestion which I venture to offer to some enterprising nurseryman. How welcome it would be if someone would bring over and put into commerce some more of the fine Australasian plants which have been proved, in the Scilhes and elsewhere, to be hardy enough for favoured gardens. At the present moment I do not know any catalogue in which so notable a plant as Telopea speciosissima, the Waratah, is yet listed. And can anyone tell me where to get Dianella tasmanica ? Would it not be possible to introduce Hymeno- sporuin flavum, which is related to the Pittos- porurns and makes a tree profusely sprinkled with loose heads of beautiful scented yellow flowers not unlike those of a large Jasmine ? '/.. THE VEGETABLE SEED ORDER ONE could almost write that seed catalogues are at the present time arriving by every post, as our friends the seedsmen realise that this is the period when gardeners, both amateur and professional, are turning their thoughts gardenwards and cudgelling their brains just what to grow the coming season. These catalogues are a very interesting study and of great help to many in assisting them to make a selection, but one need not emphasise the fact that every seedsman worthy of the name puts forward the best descriptive matter to advertise his wares. There are, therefore, one or two preliminaries that should receive consideration before we turn to these interesting lists. The first point I would make is that all varieties do not succeed equally well in all districts. Because, for example, a particular kind of Potato does well in one neigh- bourhood, it does not follow that it will do equally well in the next. It may, perchance, do even better or, on the other hand, may prove an absolute failure, and this effect may be seen in varying degrees through nearly every different kind of vegetable. I would, therefore, urge would-be growers, and especially those who are new to the locality, to enquire of friends, neighbours and other growers in their particular district as to what varieties do well before making out the seed order. Following this train of thought, I would recommend those who are desirous of trying a few novelties, the behaviour of which will probably be unknown in their districts, only to grow experi- mentally this first season and to watch the results. They will then know whether to grow again next season in larger quantities or to discard owing to poor results. The next bit of advice I would tender, as an old stager at vegetable growing, is, get the very best seeds procurable, for only from first-class seeds can first-class results . be expected. The best seeds, obtained from a really reliable source, are not too good for anyone. It is no use buying cheap seed and only gaining a 10 per cent, result, when, by purchasing the finest procurable, you can get a 90 per cent, return. It must, however, always be borne in mind that any seed will be likely to fail if the soil is not prepared in a proper way and careful and watchful attention accorded afterwards. Proper preparation consists in deep 'renching, never mind what class the soil may be, so as to bring the subsoil to the surface and A RELIABLE CARROT — NEW INTERMEDIATE. January 13, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 21 burying the surface soil. Combined with thi< effort should be the adding of suitable manures, for plants cannot be expected to thrive unless they •can get their roots well down and find the necessary foods they want to nourish them. For light, hot soils select the cooling and binding cow or pig manures, and for those of the heavy, cold, water-retentive class use the lightening manure from the stables with the bedding straw left in. Proper after-care is essential. Thinning must lie done when required. Such vegetables as need -support must be staked, and before the time arrives to cany the staking out the growing plants must be worked around with a Dutch hoe. This will keep weeds at a minimum, the soil stirred and aerated. The stirring reduces the call for watering, but when water is required give proper soaking at intervals, not a light daily sprinkle, for one must realise that it is not on the surface, where it soon gets dried out, that plants require water, but deep at the roots. These are the main directions in which care is necessary, though there are others. Earthing up, watching for pests, feeding growing plants with a dusting of a reliable fertiliser from time to time, and such other matters are all necessary for satisfactory results. On this occasion I propose to write primarily for those who grow for consumption purposes, adding any little data that may interest those ■who wish, in addition, to raise vegetables for exhi- bition. The owner of a small garden, such as is attached to the average house or cottage, will be borne steadily in mind. The primary selections are for such, but further groups are added suitable for larger areas. In naming varieties it must be understood that these are only referred to as Jiaving proved excellent in our own particular neighbourhood, and it rests with the reader to ascertain their success in his own locality. For the small garden the following list of kinds and varieties will carry him practically the whole year round, and if it seems a large one, close obser- vation will point to the fact that even in a small garden most of them are attempted and grown. Beans, Broad. — Broad Windsor, Improved Green Longpod and Leviathan. Beans, Runner. — Prizetaker and Scarlet Emperor. Beet. — Dell's Blood Red, Cheltenham Green Top, Selected Globe and Selected Purple. For exhibition bore as recommended later for Carrots. Borecole or Kale. — Cottager's Kale, Labrador Kale and Victoria Kale. Broccoli. — Late Queen, Leamington, Model and Snow's Winter White. Brussels Sprouts. — Aigburth, Dwarf Gem and May's Northall. Cabbage. — Early. — April, Ellam's Early and Flower of Spring. Summer and autumn. — Rosette Colewort. Autumn and winter. — Winningstadt. Carrots. — Long Surrej' Model and New Inter- mediate. A difficult vegetable for exhibition. On heavy ground bore holes with a crowbar and fill with a suitable light soil mixture. Cauliflowers. — Autumn Giant, Early Forcing, Early Giant, Magnum Bonum, Snowdon and Walcheren. Lettuce — All-the-year-round, Bath or Brown Cos, Hick's Hardy White, and Superb Cos. For show work two good coloured varieties are Golden Queen and Marvel. Onions. — For spring sowing. — Ailsa Craig Selected, James Long Keeping and Wilkes' Exhi- bition. For autumn sowing. — Autumn Triumph. Mammoth White Tripoli and Red Italian Tripoli, Parsley. — Exhibition Curled. Parsnips. — Student, and Tender and True. For exhibition work bore ground as noted for Carrots ; larger holes, further apart. Peas. — Edwin Beckett, Autocrat, Gradus, Duke of Albany and Quite Content — the last named being a fine variety but a little difficult on light soil. Potatoes. — Earlies. — Dunnatar Castle, May Queen, Midlothian F.arly and Resistant Snowdrop. POTATOES KING EDWARD (IN BASKET) AND GREAT SCOT Second earlies. — Arran Comrade ^and ' British Queen. Maincrop. — Arran Chief, ^Kerr's Pink and King Edward. It is rather a doubtful point whether in a small garden Potatoes, other than earlies, are really profitable for the area they occupy, except, of course, tor exhibition work. Exhibition coloured varieties. — Edgcote Purple, Edzell Blue, Exhibition Red, Mauve Queen, Mr. Breeze and Red Kings. Radish. — Beck's Scarlet and French Breakfast. Rhubarb. — Victoria and The Sutton. Savoy. — Drumhead, Early Ulm and Green Curled. Shallot. — Exhibition Red and Large Brown. Turnip. — Early Milan, Golden Ball, Green Top and Snowball. For those who have a little more room or wish to substitute there are the following : Beans, French. — Canadian Wonder and Ne Plus Ultra. Celery. — Aldenham Pink, Aldenham White, Invincible White and Standard Bearer. Celeriac. — Smooth Prague. Leeks. — Musselburgh and International. Tomato. — Bide's Recruit and Sunrise for reds, and Golden Perfection and Golden Sunrise as yellows. For the larger kitchen garden the following nun- be added : Artichoke, Jerusalem. — Any good white rather than a purple. Asparagus. — Connover's Colossal and Reading Giant. Chicory. — Witloof. Endive. — Batavian and Green Curled. Seakale. — Lilywhite. Spinach. — Prickly, Victoria, and, for light textured soil, New Zealand. Finally, where ample space abounds, the list may be completed with the following : Artichoke, Globe. — Green Globe. Beans . — C limbing French. Capsicu m s. — Where glass is available, Long Red and Long Yellow, these being interesting in a large show collec- tion. Cardoons. Chives and Garlic. Cucumber. — Where heat obtainable, Ideal and Lockie's Perfection. In frames on mild hot-bed, Stockwood Ridge Cucum- ber. Kohl Rabi. — Early Purple Short Top and Early Short Top Green. Maize. — Country Gentle- man. Salsify. — Sandwich Island Mammoth. Scorzonera. Swede. — Any good culinary variety. Vegetable Marrow . — Long Green, Moore's Cream, Pen-y-byd and The Sutton. The lists shown will I think carry most gardeners forward, and those aiming at shewing large collec- tions will be able to add the few " fancy " sorts omitted. Sowing for suc- cession should be aimed at, and it should be remembered that a number ot sowings at intervals, sufficiently large to meet one's needs, is far better practice than one large sowing, especially with such kinds as Lettuces, Radishes, Turnips, Peas, Spinach, etc. Edwin Beckett. A Beautiful Flowering Plum Prunus cerasifera atropurpurea Moseri plena is the name of one of the most beautiful of the flowering Plums we possess, and one that may be classed among the earliest flowering, as the tree is covered with almost fully-expanded blossoms well within the first week of March. It is a glorious variety of Prunus Pissardi, and flowers just a little later than the well known purple form of the Myrobalan or Cherry Plum. It is, however, superior in every respect, being much larger, semi-double, with stronger foot-stalks and much more substance in the blooms, which are more cup-shaped than the single blooms of Prunus Pissardi. The flowers are of a soft yet rich pink shade in colour, more approaching the colour of Prunus triloba, and the foliage resembles the purple Prunus. The tree we have has not yet attained sufficient dimensions for cutting ; but judging by a spray that was cut and placed in water, it will be of real value for decorative purposes, the blooms being less liable to drop than those of some of the others now in flower, to wit, the common Almond ; and though I have not seen it used for forcing, it should, I think, prove of inestimable value for this purpose, and thus add variety to the already long list of shrubs amenable for this treatment. E. B. 22 THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. THE OLD - FASHIONED RANUNCULUS AX old-world flower, with a strange air of precision about it that still, however, retains a large measure of popularity. judging by the readiness with which the ^ flowers sell in early spring from the florists' windows and street vendors' baskets. It is durable and decorative when cut, there can be no query on that score and, to those who know- it as it grows, very attractive in the garden. The Strange thing is that, while it sells readily when few Deople do know it as it grows, for it is rarely that one comes across it in gardens. Vet every bulb list offers the quaint claw-like tubers and a small group of a few dozens here and there well repays the care and attention necessary to bring them to perfection. They have been divided — more or less loosely, it is true — into three classes : French, Persian and Turban, varying both in height of plant and size of bloom. The French are the largest flowered and the tallest ; the Persian, dwarfer and earlier ; while the Turban are intermediate between the two classes. All come from R. asiatic.us and have been obtained by generations of gardeners selecting, inter- crossing, hybridising, etc. As a rule the plants are not hardy enough for autumn planting, so that February proves the best season at which to do this. The soil can scarcely be made too rich, though everything in the nature of manure, etc., which is dug in must be very sweet ; nothing rank should ever be permitted to come near the roots. Dig the ground deeply, add the manure in the form of old decayed stable manure (that from a spent hot-bed is excellent), leaf-mould, etc., and allow time for this to settle before planting. This is a point upon which too great stress cannot be laid when dealing with any bulbous or tuberous plant. Give the soil time to settle, then plant. If one plants soon after digging is finished, the consolidation of the ground takes place with the tubers in it and they may be carried down thereby to a greater depth than they should be. These Ranunculi are sun-lovers, so that an open position should be given them. Plant each tuber with the points of the claws downwards, at a depth of about 2ins., and 6ins. to oins. apart. Each tuber should have a little coarse sand shaken round it at the time of planting and growth i- hastened by soaking the tubers in water for twenty- four hours before planting. Make the soil fairly firm to finish and then leave alone until the plants are well through the ground, when the space between them should be thoroughly hoed. It is very generally recommended to cover the surface with straw, bracken or some light litter but — planting during the latter half of February — I have not found this to be an advantage. Progress is fairly rapid and the pushing up of the buds should be watched for. This marks an important stage in the plant's development, for from then onwards ii" must be guarded from drought or they are liable to go blind. Do not water when the surface 1 Led ; this is bad in two ways for. firstly, a great deal of the water will run off, and secondly, it makes the already caked surface harder, so that it draws up the moisture from below (where the roots are), more rapidly still. During May there should be a really fine shew of brilliant flowers ; in some cases self coloured, in others white or light, edged and barred with red, as evenly as a Picotee. As a rule the plants seed freely and, where this is so, it is an interesting operation to raise a batch of young seedlings from e, which will attain flowering size in three years. On no account must the plants be lifted until the last of the foliage has completely died away, which will be about the middle of June ; then the tubers should be taken up, dried, and stored in bags ot dry sand in a frostproof place until planting time recurs. Some years ago I used to grow a small bed of these each year and, after taking up the Ranunculus tubers, had ready a sufficient number of Petunias or Mimuluses in pots just coming into flower to fill tin gap. Out these went at once and thus the bed very soon became flowerful again. Most people will probably be content with what are known as " mixed " of one or other type, but those who are very keen should try the following distinct named and fine Turban varieties : Grootvorst, crimson ; Hercules, white ; Merveilleuse, yellow ; Romano, scarlet ; Seraphique, citron yellow ; and viridiflora, green with scarlet edge. H. \V. Cashing Wright NOTES OF THE WEEK WE are now, from the point of view of gardening outdoors, at the very dullest time of the year. Com- paratively few berried shrubs retain their fruits so long and the late-blossoming species have quite finished. Only Snowdrop and Witch-hazel, Winter Sweet, Cycla- men and Violet, with here and there a precocious Primrose, herald the coming of Spring. There is, however, no reason why the garden should not be effective these January days for, unless the weather happens to be frosty, unattractive corners can be remedied straight away. Here a clump of silvery Birches, there a group of red-stemmed Dogwoods or Golden Willows or the vivid green stems of Leycesteria formosa will increase the interest. The Journal of Pomology. — It was with con- siderable pleasure that the Editor recently received .mother number of the Journal of Pomology. An editorial note points out that a year has elapsed since the issue of the last number and elsewhere it is explained that the responsibility for publication has been taken over by the Horticultural Research Stations at Long Ashton, Cambridge and East Mailing. Mr. E. A. Bunyard remains Editor. He is, too, a member of the Publication Committee, which also includes Prof. Barker of Long Ashton, Prof. Biffen of Cambridge, Messrs. H. E. Dale and H. V. Taylor of the Ministry of Agriculture, and Mr. R. G. Hatton of the East Mailing Station. The list of " Associate Editors " contains the names of no fewer than five Fellows of the Royal Society and a great array of talent besides. There seems everv reason, then, to expect a long and extremely useful life for the Journal which, by the way, is to be known henceforward as " The Journal of Pomology and Horticultural Science." It is, as heretofore, a quarterly publication and the annual subscription is 15s. The publishers are Mi Headley Brothers, 18, Devonshire Street, Bishops- gate, E.C.J. Dwarf Broad Beans. — Dwarf Peas have become a commonplace. It is possible now to obtain quite dwarf varieties, admirable of flavour and excellent in appearance both in the pod and when " shelled."' Xo dwarf Bean has so far superseded the useful Scarlet Runner, though by pinching it is quite feasible to grow Painted Lady, with its quaint parti-coloured blossom, as a dwarf. Indeed, it is largely so grown in some districts for market. The latest development is with the Bread Bean. Xow. especially if sown early, the Broad Bean cannot be considered a tall grower and the advantage of a dwarfer stock may not, at first sight, be apparent to everyone. The fact remains that in small gardens the ordinary strains of Broad Bean shade a great deal of ground. A further point in favour of the dwarfs is that they arc exceedingly un- likely to get damaged by strong winds and certainly need no staking. Messrs. Sutton, who have been selecting these dwarf strains, are putting two excellent varieties on the market this season called respectively Sutton's Little Marvel and The Sutton. The former is a little the taller and more erect in habit and perhaps a little the heavier cropper. The Sutton, illustrated below, is also wonderfully prolific and scarcely taller than a carrot ! Both are of first-rate flavour and mature quickly and will be indispensable where Broad Beans are grown in frames for early work. THE NEW SUTTON BROAD BEAN. JANUARV 13, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 23 CORRESPONDENCE CHRYSANTHEMUM TOKIO. ]YJR. C. HARMAN PAYNE is under some mis- apprehension about this variety, or possibly two varieties have been given the same n ime. I was growing Tokio in some quantity from the early eighteen-eighties onwards, and its colour was not pale pink but a very vivid orange red. It was a very useful late flower of the strictly decorative class, spoilt instead of improved by disbudding, easily grown and of excellent consti- tution. It was largely used for Christmas work by the florists in my neighbourhood. I am glad to see it still included in Mr. H. J. Jones' catalogue and described as " bright red, small flowers pro- duced in light sprays, fine for table decoration." — G. H. Ekgieheart, Diitton, Salisbury. MAGNOLIA CAMPBELLII. T WONDER if you care to have the enclosed photographs of a Mag- nolia Campbellii, planted in this garden by the late Mr. Chambers about thirty-five years ago. It grows over 500ft. up, at the east end of a spur of the Haslemere greensand, and looking (as you can see) across the weald to the South Downs. It flowered for the first time early in 1921, but did not repeat the effort last season, nor, I fear, does it mean to in the coming one. — W. J. H. Whittall. [The pictures, which shew a tree some 15ft. or 16ft. high and wreathed in blossom, are, un- fortunately, unsuitable for reproduction. — Ed.1 SHRUB SPRAYS FOR DECORATION. T HAVE been much interested in the correspond- ence in The Garden on evergreen and berried shrubs. Why is it impossible to buy sprays of these for house decoration ? Shops are filled with enormous and costly Chrysanthemums and Car- nations which are, for the most part, far beyond the means of the ordinary purchaser. How nice if one could obtain at reasonable cost a box con- taining branches of Euonymus, Eleagnus, Cassinia, Pernettya, Berberis, Cotoneaster and many others too numerous to name. Could not some ladies, who know what table and house decoration means, undertake to supply them ? I believe they would readily be bought. From November till end of February, when snowr and fogs are plentiful, I hardly ever have a flower in my house, but my rooms are full of bowls and dishes arranged with branches of various shrubs, deciduous as well as evergreen, such as we can grow in the north. How- much one would like to add to these some of the more delicate varieties to be found in any good old English shrubbery. — (Mrs.) L. G. Barron, X.LS. BASKET FERNS. T WAS very much interested in reading in your issue of The Garden for December 9, 1922, about " Ferns for Basket Culture." Some ten years ago, when residing at Beverley, East Yorks, I had charge of a good-sized conservatory, and I had several basket plants hung from the roof. I enclose photographs of some of them. I endorse the remarks of your correspondent " H. W. C.-W.," who seems to have a wide experience of basket A FINE BASKET OF NEPHROLEPIS EXALTATA. plants ; but I think the annual remaking of the basket is a mistake. The plant has not had a chance to cover the basket in that time. The basket looks best when the rhizomes have just covered the entire underside ot the basket. The photographs enclosed are of baskets 4tt. and 5ft. in diameter, and none of the basket could be seen. I think that baskets, to carry on, want to be no less than ifiins. across the top and ift. deep. The compost I used consisted of turfy loam, peat, coarse leaf-soil and a little sand, the peat and loam not less than walnut-size. The baskets when planted were kept in a warm greenhouse for eighteen months. 1 put in plants out of 6in. pots, and in two years' time the baskets were entirely covered. They were at their best when from four to eight years old. I still have one of the Fern baskets shown in the photograph. The basket has been made up fourteen to sixteen years. In hot weather they were shaded by applying summer cloud to the roof glass and watered three times a week and, during spring and summer, with weak liquid manure. After the second year they were grown in the conservatory, which was barely frost-free in severe weather. I think the secret of this longevity was weak liquid manure. — Robert Smith. [Two other photographs, not reproduced, -bowed equally fine baskets of Davallia dissecta and D. canadensis. — Ed.] WINTER BLOSSOM. AX71TH reference to the letters which appeared in The Garden for December 23, 1922, about winter blossoms, it may interest some of your readers to hear that we found the following fifty varieties of plants in flower on Christmas Day in our garden in Monmouthshire : Winter Sweet, Purple Veronica, Crimson Veronica, Violet. China Rose, Polyanthus Primrose, Blue Primrosi Chrysanthemum, Genista, St. Brigid Anemoni Lonicera fragrantissima, Winter Heliotrope, Anii rhinum, Rambler Rose, Fairy Rose, Climbing Rose Caroline Testout, Triteleia, Pink Hellebore, Christinas Rose, Magnolia (common), Periwinkle, Yellow Alyssum, White Arabis, Geura Mrs. Bradshaw, Strawberry Quatre Saisons, Aubrietia, Alpine Pink, Wallflower, Valerian, Rosmarinus prostrata, Arenaria montana, Anchusa myosotidi- flora, Snowdrop, Potentilla alba, common PrimroSf , Cyclamen europium, Campanula persicifolia, Double Daisy, Beeflower, Pentstemon, Viola (several colours), Pansy, Jasminum nudiflorum, Escallonia, Canterbury Bell, Marigold, Cam- panula muralis, Cymbaiaria' (trailing Toadflax), Pyrus (Cydonia) japonica and Rose Climbing Papa Gontier. — D. Macnabb (Lieutenant-Colonel). 13ERHAPS the enclosed list of 246 species of flowers in bloom in Christmas week out of doors may be of some interest. They are all growing in either Mr. G. W. W. Blathwayt's garden or mine at West Porlock or Porlock Weir. The Citrons, Orange and Lemon had a quantity of buds and blossom knocked off by heavy rain last week, so, although they are carrying large buds just ready to open, they were not actually in flower this week. The same storms finished off a good many other flowers, otherwise the list might have been considerably longer. The Heliotrope, which still bears a few flowers, has stood out in a very sheltered spot for the last two or three winters. The list is as follows : Abelia grandiflora, Abutilon megapotamicum, A. large- flowered hybrids, Acacia falcata, Alstrdmeria aurantiaca, Anchusa italica, A. myosotidiflora. Anemone fulgens, A. St. Brigid, Aster cordifolius, Arenaria montana, Araujia sericifera, Aubrietias. Arabis albida, A. rosea, Antirrhinum majus, Armeria sp.. Arbutus Unedo, Anthemis tinctoria Kelwayi. Berberis Darwinii, Buddleia auriculata. Campanula muralis, C. persicifolia, C. pyramidalis. C garganica, C. linifolia, Ceanothus divaricatus, C. Gloire de Versailles, Convolvulus mauritanicu-. Cineraria (large-flowered hybrids), Cistus crispus, C. florentinus, Chrysanthemum (many varieties). C. trutescens, Choisya ternata, Cheiranthus lini- folius, C. mutabilis, C. Cheiri, C. Harpur Crewe, Clianthus puniceus albus, Corydalis cheilanthifolia, C. thalictrifolia, C. Wilsoni, Cydonia japonica, Cyclamen Coum, Coronilla glauca, C. emerus, Cytisus racemosus, C. mcnspessulanus, Chimo- nanthus fragrans, Cuphea ignea, Colchicum autumnale fl. pi., Cassia corymbosa, Calceolaria integrifolia, C. Forgetti, Crocus Imperati, Celsia cretica, Coba;a scandens, Citrus (the Bitter Orange, Citron and Lemon), Daphne Mezereum, D. Laureola, D. pontica, D. Philippi, Dianthus plumarius (many varieties), D. caryophyllus, D. graniticus, Dondia Epipactis, Digitalis ambigua, D. lutea, Diplacus glutinosus, Desfontainea spinosa, Den- dromecon rigidum, Datura sanguinea, Delphinium Ajacis, Echium roseum, Eccremocarpus scaber. Erodium macradenum, E. romanum, Erica darley- ensis, E. carnea, E. Veitchii, E. melanthcra, Escallonia macrantha, E. langleyensis, E. monte- vidiensis, E. sp., Erigeron mucronatus, E. speciosus, Eranthis hyemalis, Euphorbia Characias, E. sp., Eupatorium Weinmannianum, Eryngium amethystinum, E. OUverianum, Eleagnus macrophylla, Fuchsia gracilis, F. Cottinghamii, F. microphylla, F. venusta, F. garden hybrids, Gentiana acaulis, Gerbera Jamesoni hybrids. Geranium striatum, G. subcaulescens, Geum Borisii, G. Heldreichii, G.coccineum Mrs. Bradshaw, Grevillea rosmarinifolia, Gypsophila paniculata, G. repens, Hamamelis mollis, Helleborus niger. 24 THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. H. corsicus, H. foetidus, H. olympicus, Hunne- ia fumariajfolia, Hypericum patulum, H. empetriformis, Heliotrope, Helianthemum sp., Heli- chrysum helianthemifolium, Hydrangea hortensis, Ionopsidium acaule, Iberis sempervirens, Iris unguicularis (two varieties), I. lazica, I. cypriana, I. germanica, Jasminum nudiflorum, J. revolutum, Jasione montana, Kennedya sp., Kerria japonica, I amium raaculatum, Lavendula dentata, L. vera, L. Stoechas, Lathyrus odoratus (Sweet Pea), L. rotundifolius, Lithospermum prostratum, L. rosmarinifoliura, Lonicera fragrantissima, L. Standishii, L. sempervirens, Leonitis Leonurus, Linaria alpina, Lavatera Olbia, Lobelia Cavanil- lesii, L. pyramidalis, Matthiola (Stock), Medicago arborea, Malvastrum phceniceum, Marigold, Myosotis sp., Nepeta Mussini, Nicotiana affinis, Olearia Gunniana, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, Origanum sp., Ompbalodes verna, O. cappadocica, Pear tree, Papaver nudicaule, P. orientale, Phlox setacea, Pernettya mucronata, Pelargonium Zonal, P. Ivy-leaf, P sweet-scented, Pentstemon cordi- folius, P. heterophyllus, P. garden hybrids, Polygala Chamrebuxus, P. ruscifolia, Polygonum vaccini- folium, Primula Auricula, P. Julia?, P. malacoides, P. obconica, P. kewensis, P. denticulata, P. capitata, P. vulgaris (single and double), P. helodoxa, Pittosporum Tobira, Prunella Webbiana, Pisum sativum (Green Pea), Potentilla nepalensis, Pulmonaria rubra, Roses (Teas, Hybrid Teas, Polyanthas), Reseda odorata, Romneya Coulteri, Rosmarinus officinalis, R. prostratus, Salvia lulgens, S. rutilans, S. involucrata, S. officinalis, S. leucantha, S. uliginosa, S. virgata, Salpiglossis, Sollya heterophylla, S. Drummondii, Saxifraga Elizabethan, Sedum album, S. Bourgrei, S. glaucum, S. sp. (?), Schizostylis coccinea, Synthyris reniformis, Spiraa arguta, S. Thunbergii, S. Bumalda, Spar- mannia africana, Solanum jasminoides, Spartium junceum, Senecio hirsuta, Sutherlandia frutescens, Scabiosa caucasica, S. annual varieties, Semper- vivum arachnoideum, Stranvcesia undulata, Santo- lina Chamtecyparissus, Tremandra sp., Teucrium latifolium, Tunica Saxifraga, Tropasolum majus, Vinca minor, V. major, V. diftormis. Viburnum Tinus, Viola odorata, V. cornuta, V. tricolor, Valerian (Centranthus), Verbena chauuedrifolia, V. radicans, V. venosa, Veronica speciosa (many vars.), V. salicifolia, V. Teucrium, V. pedunculata, V. CatarractaB and Verbascum phceniceum. — .Norman G. Hadden. STRAWBERRIES AND ASPARAGUS. ]\/IR. ENGLEHEART is equally forceful as a speaker and a writer, which is saying much, but it will demand much persuasion, in addition to forcefulness, on his part to convince the gardeners -of the country that the selection of runners from maiden Strawberry plants (page 661) spells all the difference between early and excellent results and late and comparatively poor ones. That runners from maidens are preferable none will dispute — it has been freely acknowledged for a couple of generations anyway, probably much longer, but they are by no means always at com- mand. It is not every amateur who is able ally to reserve plants for the provision of runners, and it is in no sense necessary that he shall do so since runners of practically equal excellence and earlineis can be secured from one year old plants, as has been proved time after time by skilled cultivators. Mr. Engleheart makes a much stronger point, in my opinion, when he urges early plantin • . indeed, I venture to express the view that the success which he achieves is more largely due to the early planting, with equent perfect root establishment before the end of August, than it is to taking runners from maiden plants. Mr. Engleheart is sound, too, in his advocacy of cultivating Strawberries as annuals, t have proved repeatedly that this system is the best for private gardens, and I know many places in which it is the strict rule. The actual weight per plant may drop a little, but there are more plants from which to gather, while the fruits are finer in size, appearance and quality. With some care Strawberries as annuals can be brought in with the ordinary rotations of the vegetable garden without the least trouble. The conditions of private and commercial cultures differ so widely that the one cannot be compared with the other ; commercial growers will never be able to supply hundreds of thousands of plants from maidens in July, and it is as useless to expect it as to suggest it. Squares of turf are better than pots for the runners. Has Mr. Engleheart tried them ? The gentle tilt at those who plant \sparagus stools instead of sowing seed need not THE " PERENNIAL CORNFLOWER, CENTAUREA MONTANA cause a second's worry. When we plant or sow an Asparagus bed and manage it correctly, it will remain in good profit for anything up to a century, at the end of which time someone else must do 1 In- work and reap the reward. As to violation of Nature — well, it is unnatural to lift and replant a Narcissus bulb, but Mr. Engleheart does it. — W. H. Lodge. THE "PERENNIAL CORNFLOWER." T SHOULD be interested to hear what is the real objection to what many gardeners call the " Perennial Cornflower," Centaufea montana. There are many colour forms and, personally, I consider it quite one of the best, as it is among the easiest, of hardy perennials, yet, emphatically, it is 'quite out of favour. The greyish foliage, too, is quite attractive, while it is by no means to be despised as a cut flower. The Annual Cornflower (C. Cyanus), again, seems to have lost ground of late, which also is surprising. — G. Harvey. [It does not seem likely that many readers will share our correspondent's enthusiasm for Centaurea montana, though some of the better forms, e.g., Lady Florence Hastings, are desirable plants enough. There is something fiat and uninteresting about the growth of the plant which is against it. The Annual Cornflower has lost ground because, just as beautiful as of old, it has to compete with improved strains of other annuals, which rather overshadow it. It is, however, admirable for cut flower, and the improved strains of other annuals should not tempt florists to try to improve it, for, in its own way, it is just right. Certainly the white and pink varieties are inferior to the typical blue — Ed.] WINTER SPRAYING. VOUR contributor's article on " Spray Fluids and Spraying " in the issue of The Garden for December 30, 1922, contains some statements which are perhaps open to question, at any rate from my experience. In the first place, while. quite agreeing that spraying is not a matter of " cut and dried rules," I think it is very useful to have a programme or calendar to work to, with reliable formulas, as one is then reminded of the time to apply the various washes, although judgment is, of course, necessary as to whether any particular trees require it or not. In this connexion I have found the late Mr. Spencer Pickering's book, " Fruit Trees and Their Enemies," very useful ; the subject, having been a life-study with this gentleman, is there treated in a thoroughly scientific manner. As regards early spraying, I think it is often an advantage to postpone the application of caustic washes until well into February or even March (for Plums). By that time the insects are be- ginning to move out from the crevices and become more accessible to the action of the chemicals. Where American Blight has been noticed it is an advantage to use an emulsion containing paraffin as well as caustic soda applied with a powerful jet. If caustic soda of sufficient strength be used, viz., 2lb. to 2*lb. to 10 gallons, it is usually considered that the eggs of several insects, such as mussel scale, for instance, arc prevented from hatching. Leather gloves are very little protection against caustic soda, and are almost immediately ruined if much wetted. Rubber gauntlet gloves should be worn, and a broad-brimmed hat and goggles are also advisable. I hope you will do all you can to spread the know- ledge of spraying and its advantages. It is a subject on which amateurs and smallholders generally are very ignorant. — W. S. Gilles, F.I.C. January 13, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 25 PLANTS WHICH TURN GOLD IN WINTER. T KNOW of two " golden-leaved " plants which have the curious habit of becoming bright gold in winter and then in spring returning to a norma! green again. Possibly there are others which do this, but the only two of my acquaintance are the golden form of the Scots Fir, Pinus sylvestris aurea, and the golden Thyme, Thymus SerpvUuin aureus. The golden Scots Pine is, I think, a rare tree. I have only seen four specimens altogether. One, which I obtained with much difficulty and planted in a rock garden near Sheffield, two small ones which we treasure here at Stevenage, and the fourth is at Underley, a wonderful specimen which — writing from memory — I should say must be 15ft. or soft. high. For Pinus Sylvestris aurea seems to be a very slow grower. Mine, which I have had for four or five years, have not added more than sins, or ofns. to their stature in that time. In mid-autumn they begin to turn yellow, and by Christmas are as gold as a guinea, bright and cheerful and quaint. The golden Thyme came to me from Mr. E. Charles Buxton, who, I believe, collected it wild on the Welsh hills. A delightful gift to receive, for I am fond of all the Thymes ; they are so well bred and well behaved, and I like the scents they " use." and this golden form has the happy gift of looking cheeriest during the dirtiest months. All summer it looks like the ordinary wild Thyme of the downs, and busies itself in spreading into comfortable fragrant mats and cushions. Then one winter's day you come along and think that someone has dropped their gold chain-bag in the rock garden. Better than that though — for folk who drop gold chain-bags about always come back and claim them — is Thymus Serpyllum aureus in its winter " plumage " ! — Clarence Elliott, Stevenage. A FINE FOXGLOVE. T HAVE been interested in reading the articles on " Perennial Plants from Seed." With reference to Foxgloves, I should like to mention that Messrs. Sutton and Sons have a very beautiful form not mentioned in the article, called Sutton's Giant Primrose. It is really a deep cream and bears long spike; of large flowers. A very pretty combination which we happened to have this year in our garden was this Giant Primrose Fox- glove, Delphinium Sutton's Seedling Belladonna, and Canterbury Bell Sutton's Cup and Saucer Pink. — Constant Reader. THE USE OF CLOCHES, PARTICULARLY FOR HALF HARDY ANNUALS M ANY amateurs with small gardens and no provision for a moderate degree of heat are compelled to purchase half hardy annuals and similar plants, if they require blooms at the usual time. The writer has experimented tor some years past with cloches, of which there are several patterns on the market, and his results are sufficiently enrouraging to be worthy of record. The illustration shews one of the types which he has used, one cloche being shewm lifted out of the way for watering purpose, and doubtless other types would give equally good results provided some ventilation is possible. The method of use is quite simple ; a seed bed is prepared, preferably incorporating a good supply of some preparation for killing soil pests over a larger area than will be covered by the cloches, about a fortnight before sowing. The seeds are then sown and the bed covered with slates until germination has started, the cloches being placed over the slates and the ends closed with glass. The temperature inside from the action of the sun is considerable and germina- tion is usually very good. As soon as the seedlings appear the cloches are covered with some opaque shading, such as " summer cloud," to prevent the sun scorching the young plants, which, in normal circumstances, make very good progress. These seedlings are thinned out early or transplanted under other cloches, where they are kept until they are large enough for their permanent quarters. In this way half hardy annuals, such as Asters, Zinnias, Phlox Drummondii, etc., are raised and are practically as forward as plants raised in heat and generally more sturdy. A few results may be interesting. Asters sown about the last week in February, if the weather is open, or as soon as possible after that date, are fit for planting out about mid-May for flowering early in August. Eccremocarpus scaber raised in this way flowered in July, Antirrhinums early in August, while Dahlias — the seeds of which were germinated in the hot cupboard of the bath- room early in March and planted out under the cloches at once — flowered in August. Some have actually bloomed late in July. Many other uses to which such appliances can be put will doubtless be found ; for example, hardy annuals can be made to bloom much earlier, the germination is more certain and the results well repay the trouble. Clarkias, for example, sown late in February will bloom early in June and in the hot summer of 1921 these plants seeded themselves and the resulting seedlings were shewing buds in the middle of October. These were pro- tected with the cloches and bloomed fairly well till severe frost cut them down in November. Clumps of Sweet Peas, each under a separate cloche, sown in October usually progress very well. A certain pr< |" >\ linn are lust in very severe weather, though a litter of dried leaves under the cloche gives some protection ; and it is advisable if the frost is heavy to cover the cloches with matting. Other Sweet Peas raised in a cold frame are regularly put out in February and in exceptional weather have been planted out in January, the clochi 1 inly being removed when the plants become too tall ; these have bloomed in the third week in May and in a very good year were still healthy at the end of September. The cloches are exceptionally useful in raising very small seeds and the writer gets very much better results than he can obtain with a cold frame, the supply of moisture being much better main- tained. For example, the growth and germination of such minute seeds as Buddleia Veitchii has not been good in a cold frame, but in the open, protected, in the manner indicated, the results were excellent. Small plants which are prone to rotting or to the attacks of slugs are protected with safety, and seedlings of Primulas, such as Cashmeriana, Bulleyana, Cockburniana, are given a plentiful dusting of soot, which is never washed away as watering will be unnecessary. In special cases a collar of zinc sheet round eadi plant will form an absolute protection from slugs. The writer has by this means succeeded in wintering Primula malacoides in the open ground. The advantages of sowing seeds of perennials as soon as they are ripe are well known and young plants of Lupins, Gaillardias, Delphiniums, etc., which otherwise fall a ready prey to slugs will make good progress and flower well the following year. In mild weather the writer has actually had self-sown Dahlia seedlings appearing in January and surviving the winter. Greenfly has to be watched ; it is quite common to be troubled with this pest in November and sometimes again as early as February. When the weather is mild and dry, the end of the cloche or line of cloches least exposed to the wind is left open to allow as much ventilation as possible. Last winter the writer tried the experi- ment of putting a tent-shaped cloche, with ends closed with glass, under a larger barn-shaped cloche, also with ends closed, the idea being that air which is not in movement is about the best non-conducting medium that could readily be found. Some half hardy plants and one or two very robust hardy plants were planted under the inner cloche. The results were not unexpected ; the frost was kept out, but all the plants eventually died from want of ventilation. Blackheath. D. H. Hall. SHEWS HOW THE CLOCHES ARE MADE AND USED. 26 THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Broad Beans. — A small sowing of a Longpod variety may be made whenever the climatic conditions are favourable. This sowing should be made in double lines ains. apart, with 2ft. or 3ft. between the double rows. The seeds should be placed gins, apart and 21ns. deep. Those sown in November should be well through the soil, and the hoe should be employed occasionally between the rows when the ground is dry enough. Boxing Potatoes. — It is time early varieties were sorted and those suitable for seed set up in trays or boxes. Medium-sized tubers are best, but we find we have very few of these, and it will be necessary to cut the larger tubers. The boxes should be placed in a light, airy shed from which frost can be excluded. By keeping the tubers as cool as possible short-jointed, sturdy growths should result. Shallots. — These are often acceptable, especially when the Onion crop is below the average, and now is a suitable time for planting the bulbs ift. apart. Seakale. — If not already done, this crop should be lifted and the ground trenched, taking care to pick out any roots as the operation proceeds. When the main stem has been relieved of its side roots the Seakale will be ready for forcing, but darkness is essential for this crop. A mushroom- house is an ideal place for Seakale ; but it is not a necessity, as a warm greenhouse is also suitable if light is excluded. The best of the side roots must be retained for next year's crop. They should be cut into oin. lengths, tied up in bundles, and buried in ashes until planting-time arrives. The Flower Garden. General Work. — The flower garden should always be made as attractive as possible at all times of the year, but in many places the shrub- beries and the ground beyond the flower garden proper do not receive the attention they should. Here is scope for producing bold displays of flowering trees and shrubs, while conifers judiciously placed would be welcomed, especially during the winter months. Clumps of Lilac, Laburnum, Spirsa, Forsythia, Philadelphus, Deutzia, Pyrus rloribunda and a host of other plants are suitable. Among the peat-loving plants will be found the Rhododendrons. Azaleas (of which there are some beautiful varieties) and the various kinds of Heath, particularly the graceful Erica codonodes and E. Veitchii. We also make use of Bamboos, the Pampas Grass, the sweet Lavender and Rose- mary, while further afield are planted patches of the common and double Gorse, while the golden Spartium junceum is in full beauty about August, when flowering shrubs are little in evidence. This plant is easily raised from seed, but it will be two or three years before it makes a good display. At this season the lawns should be kept free of leaves, etc., and when the ground is not too wet the roller should be employed, while anv bare places may be returfed and holes or depres- sions made up. Every part of the flower garden should be kept as neat and tidy as possible. Under Glass. Cucumbers are never too early, and where the necessary facilities are available a few seeds may now be sown. A low small house is needed", and the temperature should not fall below 6o°. At this season a little bottom-heat is helpful towards germination, and if it is not possible to make a small hot-bed in the house a large box filled with fermenting material will answer the purpose. The seeds should be placed singly in small pots, and until the seedlings are through the soil no water will be needed if the compost was just moist at the time of sowing. Never allow the plants to become starved, and when the roots are through the soil repot into 5in. pots, and then in a week or two transfer them to the beds of loam on the stage.' Telegraph is still fancied by many, but we have discarded it in favour of Everyday and Delicacy. Melons. — So far as raising the plants are con- cerned, they need the same treatment as Cucum- bers, but to grow them successfully a separate house or division is required. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Spraying Fruit Trees.— This important work should be carried out on a calm, mild day after the pruning has been completed. An alkali wash ought to be employed, and care should be taken to wet the whole of the trees, while the operator should wear rubber gloves and an old suit of clothes. All moss and lichen should be destroyed, also American blight and some eggs of insects. Strawberry-Beds. — If not already done, the soil should be lightly forked over and then a mulching of manure given. Beds that were made last year will not require any manurial assistance. T. W. Briscoe (Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq.), Casileford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Onions. — Seeds may now be sown in shallow boxes filled with fairly rich soil and the boxes placed in a vinery that lias been started or wherever a temperature of 500 to 55 3 can be maintained. Ailsa Craig and Cranston's Excelsior are excellent for this mode of culture. Early Leeks. — Where large-sized specimens are required for exhibition purposes by August or September a sowing should be made now. The cultural directions given for Onions are applicable here too. The Lyon and Dobbie's Exhibition are reliable varieties for this purpose. Care should be taken to see that they get no check for lack of water. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Winter Spraying.— The intelligent cultivator leaves nothing to chance, and winter spraying is regarded by him as a matter of course. Those who have not taken this precaution should do so forthwith, as it pays in the end. Reliable sprays with directions can be obtained from most seeds- men or horticultural sundriesmen. Gooseberries and Red Currants often get blown out of upright in the earlier stages of their growth. Where such is the case prepare the necessary number of stout forked wooden stakes from tree branches, loosen the soil at the neck of the stem, push the fork against the stem, bringing it upright, then firm the base of the plant and of the stake in the soil by treading. The Pleasure Grounds. Rhododendrons. — Large specimens should receive a liberal mulch of farmyard manure or, failing this, half-decayed leaves. This mulch provides the necessary feeding, and will keep the plants cool at the root during the heat of summer. Rhododendron Nobleanum will now be shewing flower, and should frost occur it is well worth the while to protect the plants with mats or other suitable protecting material. The Flower Garden. Lenten Roses. — These beautiful flowers, if left unprotected, are apt to get injured by sharp frosts. If grown in bulk, they may be protected by means of a temporary framework and mats. Single specimens may be protected by means of a hand-light and a sack, or by a large inverted flower-pot or an inverted box. When cutting the flowers for indoor decoration split the stems up at the bottom about rin. to 2ins. so that thev may absorb the water. Carnations. — Mice are very apt to attack layers in frames when food is scarce. A couple of traps or one or two pieces of Rodine in the frame is a wise precaution. Pentstemons. — Keep the frames containing these plants well ventilated on all favourable occasions. The plants should be kept rather on the dry side, but do not hesitate to applv water (early in the day) when it is seen to be necessary. The above remarks also apply to Pansies, \ iolas and the occupants of cold frames generally. Fruit Under Glass. Strawberries. — Introduce a batch to a vinery or peach-house that has been started, accommo- dating the pots on a shelf near the glass. Prior to taking them indoors remove all decayed foliage from the plants. Wash the pots thoroughlv and remove all weeds, and slightlv stir the surface of tin- soil. Tap the pots to see if they require water, and if so give them a good soaking. Peaches. — Peaches and Nectarines in flower must receive assistance in carrying through the work of pollination. This can be done either by what is known as the " wet " system or bv the older " dry " system. The " wet " process con sists in spraying the trees lightly with a very fine spray about midday, using water of the same temperature as the house. The " dry " process consists in either tapping the trees sharply at the above-named hour or by going over them lightly with a rabbit's tail tied to the end of a long cane. The Rock Garden. Top-Dressing. — Most of the occupants of the rock garden are benefited by receiving occasional top-dressings, and, weather permitting, this is a suitable time for applying such a dressing. A supply of various soils to suit the requirements of the different classes of plants should be pro- vided— loam, peat, sand, grit, etc. Free the pockets from weeds and slightly prick the surface of the soil with a handfork previous to applying the top-dressing. Cutting Back. — Certain plants, such as Rock Roses and Candytufts, are apt to become leggv and to encroach upon their neighbours. Where this has occurred the plants should be cut well back. Other plants, such as the Thymes, trespass by means of root extension ; these, too, must be trimmed as much as seems necessary. Charles Comfort (Formerly Head-gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian). GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. General Work. — If not already done, houses should be thoroughly cleaned, washing the glass inside, also all wall surfaces. The latter should then receive a coat of limewash, using fresh lime for this purpose, adding a handful of flowers of sulphur to every bucketful of limewash. Propa- gating cases should be emptied and cleaned, replacing old plunging material with fresh. Coconut fibre is now prohibitive in price for this purpose, but I find the next best material is peat moss litter. The bales should be broken up and the litter spread out and moistened, afterwards beating it up with the back of a digging fork and passing it through a quarter-inch sieve, when it is ready for use. This material is clean to handle, lasts well, and, when mixed with some sand, plants root readily in it. All standing material on stages and benches should be renewed where necessary, for it is quite certain that if this is dirty it is harmful to plants. Ashes, coke, breeze and such-like should be replaced with fresh. Where pea gravel is used it should, of course, be washed and replaced on the benches. There is not the least doubt that the type of staging used has an important effect on' the health of the plants ; open sparred staging, except for a limited number of plants, is nearly always harmful. Slate stagings are good and lasting, but thev are nearly always wrongly constructed, being made to take only about lin. of standing material, whereas provision should be made for at least 4ms. It is then much easier to maintain a certain amount of natural moisture on the benches. For this reason there is no doubt that a bricked-in bed filled in with soil or ashes is the best standing medium for plants, as temperature is then more equable and there is always a certain amount of natural moisture present, which is so important for the well-being of most plants. Loam, leaf- soil and sand, a sufficient supply according to requirements, should be kept under cover. Now is a good time to cut and stack loam. Where it can be procured the top spit of old pasture land is best for this purpose. The turves mav be cut rins. to 6ins. in thickness, according to tin- quality of the soil. Avoid taking it from low- lying situations, as it may be sour from being or less water-logged. When stacking the turf some lime should be sprinkled between each layer, as old grass lands are, as a rule, very much ni glei ted as regards liming. If it is certain lime 1- not necessary, then the turf should be stacked with some W'ell rotted farmyard manure. Seed Lists. — Selections of the seeds required should be made and the order despatched as soon as possible, so that all seeds may be at hand at the required time. Much may be done towards maintaining the greenhouse and conservatory throughout the year by means of plants raised from seed, as most of them flower the same season. Everyone has their favourite flowers and knows their own individual requirements, and while it is wise to trust to well tried plants it is desirable each year to try some new varieties, as it adds to the interest and often results in one finding a plant just suited for his particular purpose. Hardy annuals are now an important feature in greenhouses and conservatories. It is the usual practice to sow the seed during September, wintering the young plants in cold frames or pits. January ij, 1923.] THE GARDEN. v. PLANTING SEASON. GEO. JACKMAN & SON Woking Nurseries, SURREY {Established over a Century) Invite Inspection of their Large and Varied Stock of ORNAMENTAL TREES ■AND- SHRUBS, ROSES, CLIMBERS, FRUIT & FOREST TREES, HERBACEOUS & ALPINE PLANTS. 200 Acres of Stock to select from. Catalogues Free on application. Advice given on all matters appertaining to LANDSCAPE GARDENING and Estate Improvements. THE CLEANER THE TREES THETBETTER THE FRUIT ROBERT VEITGH & SON Specialize in : Hardy Trees and Shrubs, Choice and rare Plants, Magnolias, Camellias, Acacias, Fruit Trees, Roses, Nerines, Seeds, Bulbs. CATALOGUES FREE ON APPLICATION. Royal Nurseries, EXETER SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. THE BOY'S OWN AQUARIUM and THE BOY'S OWN BOOK OF PETS, two booklets by Frank Finn, B.A., F.Z.S. ; full of practical hints and useful information for parents and boys. Published at 9d. each, by post lid., at the Offices of " Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. SITUATION WANTED. HEAD GARDENER — Expert Rose Grower end writer for the National Rose Society. — Marshall. -J.">. Church Road, Willesden. AS GROWN IN THE ROYAL PARKS For the past 15 Years. 1923 CATALOGUE NOW READY Post Free on application JOHN PEED & SON Seedsmen & Nurserymen to H.M. The King WEST NORWOOD LONDON f •♦%»>♦—%%%' %»%«»»»»««»<<>i HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet bv Owen Thomas, v.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Offices, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. DOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO., Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RG H . FREE ' FROM \ THE- PUBLISHER^ ICKSONS HAWLMARK BELFAST. KILZALL BANDING CREASE NO BANDS REQUIRED To eradicate Eelworm, Wireworm, Centipedes, &c, and to check Club, Streak, Stripe and other Fungoid Diseases, use the scientific liquid Soil Steriliser and Insecticide, ii EELLITE" Send for full particulars. 40, SPON LANE MILLS, WEST BROMWICH. The Culture of Chrysanthemums By H. WELLS. Freely Illustrated. Paper Covers, 2/6 net ; doth, 3/6 net ; By post 4d. extra . Published at the Offices of " Country Lite," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2. VI. THE GARDEN. [January 13, 1923. Where this was done the plants should be readj (his month for a shift into a larger-sized pot, and from then onwards until they flower a cool, airy greenhouse is the best place for them. The plants should be neatly staked and kept regularly tied as they require it. Where such plants were not sown during the autumn now is a good tun. to make a start with them. Some of the most useful are Schizanthus, Clarkia, Godetia, Lobelia tenuior, Mignonette, Annual Chrysanthemum, Nemesia Rodanthe, etc. Some annuals, such as Mignonette, Larkspur, Rodanthe and Acrocli- ninnis, transplant badly, so they are best sown directly into their flowering-pots. The soil for Mignonette should be rammed very hard. A good medium loam is best, with some fine bone-meal and dried cow manure added to the compost. The compost is best without leaf-soil, and as lime in some form is essential, some old mortar rubble may very well take the place of sand Mignonette is by no means easily grown in pots, and requires all the skill and care one can give it to obtain good results. Grevillea robusta is very popular for decorative work, and seeds should now be sown. This sowing often proves a failure ; true the seeds may some- times be bad, but failures are nearly always due to sowing the seeds flat, for being very thin, many of them rot. Successful germination can generally be obtained by standing the seeds on edge in the compost. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. J. Coutts. BOOKS Our Birds. — Two little books* came recently to hand tor review with attractive pictures on their otherwise uninteresting green paper covers. The proportioning of the books is not very happy — the pages are almost square, but the pictures of birds, their nests and young are admirable. The illustrations are the main feature ot both little volumes, each picture being faced by a brief but quite vivid account of the bird or nest illus- trated. " First Series " includes all birds whose English names begin with the letters A to O, and " Second Series " the remainder. These should be very useful little books for giving boys and girls an insight into the bird-life of this country Even " grown-ups " — and not always town- dwellers at that ! — are oft-times none too certain of the identity of the less common kinds. It is perhaps a pity that the Latin names of the species are not included with a key shewing the grouping of the genera. After all, knowledge is better systematised. The late Mr. S. T. Wright.— The Council of the Royal Horticultural Society has subscribed £100 towards the fund which, on its initiative, is being raised to commemorate the late Mr. S. T. Wright's long and devoted services to horti- culture and to the Society, and to provide much needed assistance for his widow. The subscriptions to the fund already held by the Royal Horticultural Society amount to nearly £170, and there can be little doubt but that the late Mr. S. T. Wright's many friends who have not already subscribed to tlie fund will be glad to add contributions, which will testify both to their enduring regard for the man and their appreciation of the services which in many ways he rendered to horticulture. To wall; round Wisley Garden with Mr. Wright was a liberal education. He knew every plant and loved them all. Few men have had a larger opportunity ot helping professional and amateur ardeners, and none has availed himself more fully of that opportunity. Mr. Wright's work in the service of the Society extended over many years, both at Chiswick and at Wisley. Although a frugal man, it was not in his power to make full provision for his widow and children. We believe that, thanks to the pension scheme inaugurated by * "Our Birds, Their Haunts and Nests," containing illustrations from photographs by diaries Reid. 1 rsl .me! second series, published by T. X. Foulis, Ltd., 1 ^11 imrgh and London. Price, Is. Cd. each net. the Roj 1 1 Hi 'i in ultural Society, am1 al 0 to savings in .rli by Mr. Wright, some provision is already made for Mrs. Wright. Nevertheless, tin fai ! 'cinains that without further assistance life will be made very difficult for her. It is the hope of her husband's colleagues and friends that Mrs. Wright may be relieved of all financial cares, and they confidently believe that all that is needed to secure this end is to bring the knowledge that help is needed to all sections of the horticultural community. Subscriptions =hould be sent t" tin Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society. Vincent Square, Westminster, S.W. ROSE GARDEN. SINGLE ROSES FOR NORTH ASPECT ( " South Bersted.").— Most, 01 all, Roses, single and donble, like sunshine lust, but a few are known to give satisfaction on a north aspect. Rosa Hugonis and R. lucida are too wiry in growth to succeed under a north aspect wall. unless very low. R. lucida rarely exceeds 2ft. to 3ft. in height, ami that would be a disadvantage to it. Tall in lies i hat get sunshine over the top of the wall are more satisfactory, so if the wall is low many single Roses would succeed. Conrad F. Meyer i- known to succeed on north and south aspects, but that has (.''it -Dijon blood in it. All the same, we would recommend the single Rosa rugosa alba (white). R. r. atropurpurea (blackish crimson) and ft. r. rubra (rosi . -haded violet). R. AVichuraiana (white), Ifiawatlu (crimson) and Evangeline (white, tipped pink), the latter two Wiehuraiana hybrids, are likely single Roses for the situation. The Ayrshire Roses would be suitable, but the cultivated varieties are double or semi- double. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS FLOWER GARDEN. M0NTBRET1AS NOT FLOWERING (D. B., Abyssinia).— In Britain Montbretias are grown successfully in chalky districts and others that contain little lime. There is do reason why old mortar rubble should not be employed by way of experiment, but our impression is that the failure occurs when the moisture in the soil fails. We have a recollection of them becoming brown from the tips of the leaves downwards, just when they were preparing to bloom. This was in a chalk district, liable to get dry in summer, and to overcome this the conns were afterwards planted on tin- shady side of trees, after which the leaves did not get browned In another gravelly garden they were planted on the shady side of trees, just far enough away to be out of heavy shade and clear of tree roots. The soil was some- what peaty and cool. We would suggest that well decayed horse manure or half decayed leaves be used and put some inches below the conns to hold moisture. Water should also be given liberally when the spathes are well above ground. They should be transplanted as soon as the foliage dies away and the conns of flowering size given plenty of room. Perennial Lupins certainly like plenty of moisture so that horse manure would benefit them and could be dug in during the resting season. We would suggest tlrat our correspondent rears them from seeds and plants them in their permanent positions while quite young. TREES AND SHRI'BS. SHRUB FOR A HEDGE y the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. PHOSPHATES NITROGEN Water Soluble 18 Citric Soluble Equal to Amm'nia Soluble Potash (K20) 485 5% Equal to Sulphate t.f Potash (K2S041 925" Packed in Sealed Bags, 7lb. 2,-, Ulb. 3/6, 28lb. 6/6, 56lb. 12/6, 112lb. 24/6 per Bag. If you have any difficulty In obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS & SONS, Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, W1DNES, LANCS. Published by Cobntry Life.' Limited, at 20, Tavistodt Street, Strand, W.C.2, and by George Nb™es. Limited. 8-11, Southampton Street. Strand. W.C.2. Printed by Thb Avenue Press, 55 & 57, Drury Lane. London. W.C!. THE ,'. ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2670. Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York, N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, January 20, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription: Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign. 17/4 BELOVED OF BUTTERFLIES. Buphthalmum speciosum in Woodland. MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR EXHIBITION! FOR EVERYWHERE! FOR THE GARDEN! FOR BEDS! Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. BARRS TALL FLAG IRISES FOR PRESENT PLANTING Awarded R. H. S. Gold Medal at the Great Iris Conference, June 7th, 1922. 100 in ioo superb named varieties .. 75/-, 100/- & 5° „ „ „ .... 36'-, 48/- & 25 „ „ .... 16/-, 24/- & 50 25 120/- 60/- 30/- 15/- 12 „ 12 ,, „ .... 8/-, 12/- & Choice mixed varieties, without names.. per ioo, 45/- ; per doz., 6/- BARR'S DWARF CRIMEAN IRISES Produce a wealth of rich colouring during March and April. 100 in 20 beautiful named varieties . . . . 42/- — — 12 „ 6 „ „ .. .. 6/- — — ' Mixed, without names .. .. per ioo, 35/-; per doz., 5/- 11, 12 & 13, KINO STREET, COVENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.C.2. BARR & SONS, " I R FRI IITIFR " THE WORLD'S BEST MANURE. *-'*-• L IW-^lllL-rV First at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:—! cwt., 30/- J-cwt., 16/6 ; 28 lbs., 9/-; 14 lbs. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGH6ATE, N.6. 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN [January 20, 1923. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE Rose Specialists CIRST The Champion Decorative Rose Grower I of England, R" R ELISHA J. HICKS. M.C.N.R.S., etc., OSES Hurst, Berks. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD. MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R & G. CUTHBERT For planting and "' u Conservatory SOUTHGATE decoration. Catalogue of our MIDDLESEX new and beautiful varieties post Established 1797 free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTH AM , SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twerton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc- DAWKINS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Gladioli and Liliums, etc., now ready. SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. B]BlElE]B]E]ElB]B]B]ElE]B]ElE]ElB]gE] 1 KINGS ACRE ROSES g noted for over a Century 13 El for their hardiness and reli- 13 ability. New alphabetically 13 arranged Catalogue of more 13 than usual interest, contain- 13 ing helpful information, with 13 Gil Special Collections for all 13 Gil purposes. Free on request. 13 Jnl Nurseries Established 1785. [G] El KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 HEREFORD. 13 Gil Eta Eta la [a La La Ed La \b La la EGd la la 13 * T^BS FOR SHRUBS. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal. 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak, etc. Highly decorative. — Price List from Pradal & Co., 26. Gnodee Street. London. W.l. Bushes & Trees for Sale. GOOSEBERRIES, Careless and 'Whinhams 3 years, 40/- 1001; 2 years, 30/- 100 BLACK CURRANTS, Seabrook's, 2 years 26/ 100. RED CURRANTS, Comets, 16/- 100. VICTORIA PLUMS, 4 to 8 ft. high. APPLES, Bramley's. Uewton'fl, 'Cox's, Worcester's, James Grieve, Irish Peach, 16/- •doz. ; 25/- score; all maidens, assorted or separate. RASP- BERRY CANES, Perfection, 7/6 100. Carr. pd. (pass.) c.w.o. MUCH REAM, Fruit Grower, FRIDAYBRIDGE, WISBECH. Garden Sundries CORRY & CO., Ltd. Shad Thames, S.E.i and Bedford Chambers Covent Garden, W.C.2 Merchants and Manufacturers of Horticultural Sundries Fertilizers and Insecticides, etc. J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers I9t Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening J. CHEAL & SONS, Ltd. Nurseries CRAWLEY Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, I4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i & 58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Oardeos de signed. Old Gardens Re-arranged. Plant tag plana tor borders etc Terms on appli cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & tstimates Free. PULHAM S) SON 5Y APPOINTMEN r TO 015 MAJESTY 71 NEWMAN 5T- OPCrORD 5T LONDON -V NUR5EPJE5 • lX5ljNTIAM 'graphic CUP for bes!" Rock Garden CHELSEA- 1922 Plarxs s> 5urueys- Vases ■ frxjrvlairv^ • Figures- 5ur\dial 5 ■ »c SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving full cultural directions at competitive prices. Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D.T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. Chrysanthemums and Perpetual Carnations Select List of the Best Varieties with cultural instructions post free. KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX. ROBERT VEITCH & SON Specialize in : Hardy Trees and Shrubs, Choice and rare Plants, Magnolias, Camellias, Acacias, Fruit Trees, Roses, Nerines, Seeds, Bulbs. CATALOGUES FREE ON APPLICATION. Royal Nurseries, EXETER LAX FRUIT IN ALL CATA ONS TREES HAPES S GRATIS ON BROS BEDFORD DICKSONS HawmariC BELFAST The Sweet Pea Specialists. L THE GARDEN COLLECTION 1=/ 12 Varieties. *-*/' SPECIALITE. PLANT NOW SPRING FLOWERING TREES AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) Gauntlett & Co. Ltd., Japanese Nurseries. Chiddingfold, Surrey. The Shelley Sweet Peas COLLECT/ON A. - 7,6 Royal Scot, Picture, King Mauve, Hawlmark Pink, E. May Imp., Elegance, Charity, R. F. Felton, Warrior (12 seeds each). FULL LIST POST FREE. T. H. DIPNALL, F.R.H.S., Shelley, Hadleigh, Suffolk. (Continued front opposite page.) HARDY ORCHIDS.— Cypripedium spectabile, good crowns, 3 - : (.'. Calceolus, 1 6 ; Calopogori, 1 - ; Bee Orchid, 9d. ; Spider, Is. : Military, 1 M'd> from i 'iir of the largesl — Rev. J. F. Anderson, Glenn Hall. THE GREENHOUSE AND HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT. A Dew and practical booklet by the late VV. Trt/elove. 9d. net ; by post, lid. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C2. January 20, 1923. J ■■«■ ggfey- GARDEN.5 "7^ ^ fcto^r 02^ WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees (300,000), Alpines In pots, Perennial Irises (250,000).— John Waterer, Sons & Crisp, Ltd., Bagshot, Surrey ; Twylord, Berks : and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. —The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. vii. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15.— Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, ehestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London.— Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex.— Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli, THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli should be ready about January 20. Send for particulars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation ami Delphinium. SOW NOW— PILOT, BENEFACTOR, Earliest- of-all Culinary PEAS, 1/6 pint; Early Leviathan Long-pod BEANS, 9d. pint; Giant SHALLOTS. 6d. lb. Postage, 6d. pint; 2 pints. 9d GEORGE ELSOM (Dept. F), Bulb & Seed Grower, Spalding. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard.— Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed).— Write, Wakefield JLiNrRE and FERTILISING Co.. Wakefield. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — HODSON AND SON, LTD., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells DOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO, Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RG H . Pri £2 5 0 A new and inexpensive garden, ornament. Write to W. Gaze for Illus- trated Catalofiue (4.D.) of Garden Ornaments, Paving Stone for Garden Paths, etc. Prices and particulars on application. W. H. GAZE & SONS, LTD., Garden Architects and Craftsmen. 19-23, HIGH STREET. KINGSTON - ON - "1 HAMES. PEEDS' SEEDS As grown IN THE ROYAL PARKS for the past 15 Years. 1923 CATALOGUE NOW READY Post Free on application JOHN PEED & SON Seedsmen & Nurserymen to H.M. The King WEST NORWOOD, LONDON. Write to-day for this FREE GUIDE. Our Free "GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM AND GUARANTEED GARDEN SEEDS" i- more than a mere catalogue. Gives you L60 large illustrated pages <>f Garden Seed information that Is educating in a good and interesting way. It is the story of "Better Crops" Seeds, moderate prices, and a stronwx guarantee. EVERY packet of Seeds, too, ordered thence MUST grow for you, and please von, or you will GET IT REPLACED FREELY. They more than double the joy and profit oJ your Garden, and cost no more to buy. ,cend a Post Card to-day, addressing us personally . T00G00D & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and Growers of " Better Crops " Seeds only. SOUTHAMPTON. it No. 2670.— Vol. LXXXVIL] [January 20, 1923. THE GENUS COTONEASTER The introduction of new Cotoneasters from China during recent years has more than doubled the number of species and varieties in cultivation, and added considerably to their value for garden and open ivoodland. THE Kew Hand-List of Hardy Trees and Shrubs, published in 1902, enumerates twenty-three species and four varieties of Cotoneasters. The Kew collection at the present time contains fifty species and twelve varieties, and in addition a number of Chinese introductions still under the collectors' numbers. While it cannot be claimed that all are valuable and distinct shrubs or small trees for general planting, it would be quite easy to pick out twenty-five and dilate at con- siderable length on their value as lawn specimens, for massing or open wood- land planting, for the shrubbery border, for rock garden or sloping banks. Both deciduous and evergreen shrubs are represented in the genus, while others may, perhaps, best be described as sub or semi-evergreen, for while some of the leaves may hang on until the spring during a mild winter, hard frosts in November or December soon clear the bushes. Again, it is noticeable that the leaves persist on the bushes in damp positions and heavy soils longer than on dry, well drained slopes. In habit Cotoneasters are very variable, ranging from the prostrate C. Dammeri to C. frigida, which at Monreith grows 30ft. to 40ft. high. Cotoneasters are very easy shrubs to accommodate as regards soil. Ex- cluding bog land they thrive in practically all soils one is likely to meet. Seeds, cuttings and layers provide ready and rapid methods of propaga- tion. Vegetative increase is the best and quickest, for not only do Cotone- aster seeds sometimes remain dormant for a time in the soil, but seedlings are apt to vary, not always to the advantage of the grower. On the other hand it must be admitted that seedlings sometimes lead to improved varieties. Selections of the Best Species. For Flowers. — C. multiflora, C. frigida, C. turbinata, C. salicifolia and varieties, C. pannosa. For Fruits. — C. frigida, C. rotundi- folia, C. Simonsii, C. salicifolia and varieties, C. Francheti. For the Rock Garden. — C. Dammeri, C. adpressa, C. microphylla and vars. glacialis and thymaefolia. C. adpressa. — In some respects this Chinese Cotoneaster resembles C. horizontalis (q.v.), and is described by Schneider as a variety of that species. In our gardens, however, the growth is quite distinct. To begin with it is a smaller growing plant, the branching is irregular (whereas in C. horizontalis it is regularly distichous), the leaves are thinner and the subglobose fruits are larger. C. adpressa is spreading or prostrate in habit, plants 3ft. in diameter being only about ift. high. It is thus an ideal hardy shrub for the rock garden, growing over boulders and ledges. A deciduous species, the small flowers are white, tipped with rose, and the fruits red. subglobose, about Jin. long. C. adpressa was first introduced to France about 1895 by a French missionary, and again from Western Szechuan by Mr. E. H. Wilson in 1908 and 1910. C. amcena. — This is an evergreen species and was first introduced from China by Mr. Wilson when collecting on behalf of Messrs. James Veitch and Sons during 1904 in Yunnan. It is a freely branched shrub up to about 6ft. in height, allied to C. Francheti, but of more compact habit and smaller leaves. The small white flowers are freely produced in corymbs of about six to ten flowers, followed by rich red fruits. This is a very good bush for the wide shrubbery border and where the pleasure grounds merge into the woodland. C. bacillaris. — A large deciduous bush or small tree, 18ft. to. 20ft. or more in" height, this Cotoneaster is a conspicuous shrub in the Queen's Cottage grounds and' by the lake side at Kew. The white flowers are only Jin. in diameter, but being very freely produced in cymes C. bacillaris is a showy flowering bush. Though not attractive at a great distance because the fruits are dark purple, they are very freely borne and long spray? are useful to cut for vase decoration with coloured autumn foliage. This species is a native of the Himalayas, being found up to 10, oooft. The natives value the wood for making walking sticks, and being strong and elastic its use for golf clubs has been suggested. Its robust habit makes C. bacillaris of considerable value in large shrubbery borders, bylthe waterside, for planta- tions and in open woodland planting. C. bullata. — This is a tall, deciduous species of more open growth than most Cotoneasters, 6ft. to 15ft. or more in THE TRAILING RED BERRIED COTONEASTER DAMMERI RADICANS. height. It is a native of China and 28 THE GARDEN. [January 20, 192J. Tibet, ci g to us first by way of France, through the French Missionaries and M. Maurice tie Vilmorin in the late nineties. The rosy-white blossoms are not conspicuous, but the value of C. bullata lies in the rich red fruits, Jin. to Jin. in diameter, whii h, 111. .-I sr,iM. us, an- very freely borne. A large-leaved form oi tin- species, v.ir. macrophylla (No. 873, Wilson), was collected by Mr. Wilson in Western Szechuan in 1908. C. bullata has been confused with C. moupinensis, but that species is readily distinguished by its black fruits. C. BUXIFOLIA. — Until the introductions of recent date from China this was the tallest growing and best 1 tin- -trictly evergreen Cotoneasters. The average height is 8ft. to loft, or raft. It has, generally, long and slender branches, clothed with dark green leaves up to iin. long. The clusters of small white flowers are succeeded by quantities of rich red fruits. In addition to its value for large grouping or massing in the pleasure grounds and for the shrubbery border, I have seen this Cotone- aster planted most effectively as an informal hedge or dividing line between the garden proper and the woodland. C. buxifolia was first introduced from the Neilgherry Hills in 1824. C. Dammeri. — This very distinct prostrate- growing Cotoneaster is better known in British gardens as C. humifusa, for this is the name it was given at Kew when introduced by Mr. Wilson, and first disseminated by Messrs. James Veitch and Sons from their Coombe Wood nursery. It sub- sequently proved to be identical with the plant previously named C. Dammeri by Schneider. Keeping quite close to the ground, in habit it is distinct from any other species. Free in growth, the plant spreads rapidly, rooting in the ground as it spreads as does Ivy. In the rock garden the long trailing evergreen shoots are very effective hanging over boulders and ledges of rock. C. Dammeri var. radicans is similarly prostrate in growth, Mr. Wilson distinguishing it from the type in having lorigeir peduncles and pedicels, with constantly one or two flowered racemes. Mr. Wilson collected the type (N'o. 481, W.) in Western Hupeh and the variety radicans (No. 107 1, W.) inWestern Szechuan, C. Dielsiana. — Here again we have a plant with two names, C. applanata, Duthie, and C. Dielsiana, Pritzel, the latter being the first and thus the accepted name, though C. applanata, descriptive of the distichous branch arrangement, is obviously the better name for the plant. It is an open, free growing bush of light and elegant habit with arching branches. C. Dielsiana is deciduous, not note- worthy in blossom, but gay with scarlet fruits in autumn. A native of Central China, it was first introduced by Mr. Wilson in igro. C. Francheti. — This is a wide-spreading ever- green shrub 8ft. or more in height and as much in diameter. The corymbs of small white blossoms. often eight to a dozen or more together, are followed l'v showy orange-scarlet fruits. It is one of the best known Chinese species, especially in France, where it was first raised about 1895 from seeds sent by the Abbe Soulie. In the shrubbery border and the open woodland C. Francheti is worthy of attention by planters. C. FRiciDA. — This is the most decorative and valuable of all the vigorous growing deciduous Cotoneasters. Though usually seen as a wide- spreading bush 12ft. to 20ft. or more in height, it readily forms ,1 trunk and makes a beautiful specimen lawn tree of fair size. Sir Herbert Max- well, writing in The Garden of July 24, 1920, describes self-sown seedlings of C.frigidain the woods at Monreith between 30ft. and 40ft. in height, the trunk of one specimen measured girthing 5ft. at ift. from the ground. In flower during June the fl.iltish corymbs of white blossoms are distinctly showy. It is, however, in autumn and winter, when the branches are weighed down with the large clusters BRILLIANT BERRIES OF COTONEASTER FRIGIDA. / / j y *+ <+% AV S& '■ V* jO «* o ONE OF THE " SAILS " OF COTONEASTER HORIZONTALS. GLOSSY EVERGREEN FOLIAGE AND DEEP CRIMSON FRUITS OF C BUXIFOLIA. January 20, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 29 of red fruits, that C. frigida attracts most attention. It is not surprising that a shrub so readily raised from seed should be improved by selecting free fruiting and richly coloured forms. Earlham variety was recently given an award of merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. The var. Vicarii raised at Aldenham House, and var. montanuin. which we obtained from the late Mr. T. Smith's nursery at Xewry, are also noteworthy for the abundance and bright colour of the fruits. There is also a yellow fruited variety, fructu-luteo whicli opens up possibilities of raising golden yellow-fruited Cotoneasters by seedlings and selection. C. frigida is particularly valuable as a town shrub. C. Harroviana. — An evergreen bush of spread- ing rather than upright habit, the small white blossoms are showy and freely borne in axillary and terminal corymbs. These are followed by red fruits which hang on bushes into the New Year. Mr. Wilson introduced this Cotoneaster from Yunnan in 1899. Attractive in flower and fruit it is worthy of a place in the pleasure grounds and shrubbery borders, where it forms an effective screen throughout the year. C. Henryana. — This is one of the largest- Jeaved evergreen Cotoneasters. Individual speci- mens are not particularly attractive because of a loose and more or less pendulous habit unless restricted at first to a single stem. Shapely speci- mens obtained by a little judicious pruning each year in spring make good lawn plants. A group of six to a dozen or more bushes in a shrubbery border or massed in the pleasure grounds has a good foliage, effective with quantities of white flowers in June, followed by an abundance of brownish-red fruits. When first introduced by Mr. Wilson from China in 1901 this Cotoneaster was grown as C. rugosa var. Henry i. C. HORizoNTALis. — In several respects this is one of the most distinct and beautiful Cotoneasters. In the open it forms a low spreading bush some 2ft. to 3ft. high, but against a wall it will grow very much higher. A plant in such a position at Kew, 10ft. high, was illustrated in The Garden, December 17, 1904. Its value as a low shrub for sloping sunny banks was also illustrated in The Garden, December 4, 1920. Though strictly deciduous in mild winters, many of the leaves remain on mid way through the winter. It has flat fan-like spreading branches, a characteristic which has caused it sometimes to be spoken of as the fish-bone Cotoneaster. It has no claim to floral distinction when the small pink-tinted white blossoms open early in June, but during autumn the neat glossy green leaves and bright red fruits give it a very attractive appearance. Later, the leaves develop a bronze tint, changing in turn to red and •crimson. We are indebted for the introduction of this useful Cotoneaster to the Abbe David in 1885. C. integerrima. — This shrub is of interest, being the only Cotoneaster found truly wild in Britain, its other name of C. vulgaris being, perhaps, better known to students of the British Flora, who know of its existence on the Great Orme's Head. ■C. integerrima is also found wild in Northern Europe, Persia, Siberia, Tibet, Manchuria and Northern India. Growing 5ft. or 6ft. high it is a •deciduous shrub, usually with red fruits, but there is also a form (var. melanocarpa) with black fruits. C. microphylla. — A low - growing evergreen shrub of graceful habit, this is a favourite shrub for the rock garden, low walls, sloping banks and the fronts of shrubbery borders. In autumn the small glossy green leaves are thickly interspersed with small red fruits. It is a native of the Himalayas, being a common shrub at from about 4,000ft. to 11,000ft. elevation. The first record of its intro- duction appears to be 1827, when the East India Company sent seeds to the Royal Horticultural Society. (To be continued.) A- °- EAST LOTHIAN STOCKS Early Sozving Ensures Summer Flowering. THESE beautiful and free-flowering Stocks are not nearly so popular in England as they are in Scotland. Yet they do equally as well if given good treatment. It is rather invidious to compare them with the Ten Week Stocks, for both have out- standing merits and both should, in my opinion, be grown in every garden, but I do think that they are better bedding plants and give far more flower. On the other hand there is greater variety ot colour and also, I believe, a more decided fragrance with the Ten Week Stocks. In the ordinary way the East Lothian Stock maybe regarded as an autumn or a late summer flowering plant, but by sowing the seeds in January or Feb- ruary and getting the plants forward, they may be induced to commence flowering in June and retain flowers till late in the autumn. I first grew these plants when I was in Scotland some twelve years ago and was struck by their beauty and their prodigality of flowering. On my return to England I grew them again and giving them better treatment I suc- ceeded far better with them. The seeds are sown late in January or early in February in a pan of sandy soil in the usual way in a warm tem- perature. Under ordinary conditions germination is seen in about a week's time and, usually, in another week the seed- lings are ready for prick- ing off. I find that early pricking- off is a safe- guard against damping, and I am particularly careful not to put the seedlings where the spray of the syringe will reach them. As space in the greenhouse is precious at this time of the year, and as the seedlings will not remain long in the box, I prick them off at 2ins. apart. They are left in the boxes for rather more than a month, by which time there is a tendency to crowd. As it is particularly desired that the plants should do well, they are then potted singly into 3in. pots and are kept growing steadily along in full sunshine and close to the glass until they fill the soil with a network of roots. This brings us to about the third week in April. The final potting should not be delayed longer, else the plants will not have well filled the pots with roots by planting-out time. At this stage I have removed them to 6-inch pots, but better results were obtained when only 5-inch pots were used, and it is a better size from which to plant. From this time onward they should gradually be inured to outside conditions by ventilating freely and later removed to a cold frame, where the ventilation can be gradually increased until they have attained that degree of hardiness which will justify their being planted out towards the end of May. Dates, of course, are only a guide, and in that light only I append the following details from my diary : — January 20. — Seeds sown in a pan ot sandy soil in warm greenhouse ,, 28. — Seedlings appeared above the surface. February 3. — Seedlings pricked off closely in a box. A SPIKE OF EAST LOTHIAN STOCK. March 14. — Young plants potted singly in 3111. pots. April 20. — Moved along to sin. pots. May 26. — Planted in the beds. June 1. — Flowering commenced and continued till October 23. — When the Stocks were removed and the bed prepared for spring-flower- ing plants. The beds in which these plants were grown were always bastard-trenched and manured once a year, usually in autumn. Beyond that no special culti- vation was afforded. In course of time the plants spread so as to be quite iSins. through. A central flower spike developed first and on many of these the actual flowering part measured a foot. When this faded it was removed and was succeeded by numerous side flowering growths. On one of the best plants I once counted fifty-three of these and in no plant could I count less than thirty. This development surely justified the extra care devoted 30 THE GARDEN. [January 20, 1923. to the plants in their early stages. There is, ot course, the difficulty that some plants shew single flowers, but this I overcome, first of all, by buying only first class seeds and, secondly, by keeping a reserve of plants in pots, so that singles can be removed and replaced by plants already showing double flowers. If these Stocks are planted in a sheltered position not otherwise needed they can be left through the winter. Some of them doubtless will not survive the ordeal, but those that do will give an abundance of flowers in late spring. W. F. R. MOSSY SAXIFRAGES THE Mossy Saxifrages — that is those belonging to the dactyloides section — are a little looked down upon by real alpine plant fanciers because of their ease of culture and a noticeable coarseness of *' finish," which distin- guishes the bulk of them. This coarseness is chiefly noticeable when one compares them with tufted (Kabschia) treasures. Actually, the Mossy *$» •/•*, Wm SAXIFRAGA GUILDFORD SEEDLING, STILL ONE OF THE BEST CRIMSON " MOSSIES.' *;*»>' vv '- ■ *jjft ■■■>• . ,,-.'w - ?. i: " *fe-, • ■ .*•■ VIGOROUS GROWING AND HANDSOME, S. X BATHONIENSIS. section provides more real effect in the garden than the tufted sorts can hope to do. Most of the desirable sorts are of hybrid origin or greatly improved forms of species of comparatively small garden worth — in short, practically florist's flowers, which also does not endear them to the enthusiastic alpine collector. Nowadays, the red-flowered forms are fashionable, probably because new deep-coloured varieties are continually being raised and sent out. This not- withstanding, the best Mossy Saxifrage is un- questionably a white one. S. x Wallacei. The origin of this is quite uncertain, though to the layman it looks to have trifurcata blood. It has a double claim to pride of place : the beauty of snow-white blossom — which, though incomparably finer, always reminds one of that of the rampant but beautiful Sedum album — and beauty of foliage. Saxifraga Wallacei provides the most beautiful green carpet of any rock plant in cultivation. A group of plants quickly7 runs together and forms a solid and beautiful mat, so compact and so firmly inter- rooted that it may be lifted as a whole and exhibited entire many miles away ! Saxifraga trifurcata has already been partly described in that S. Wallacei was said to " take after " it. The rosettes are formed of three parted leaves, which are much stiffer and more rigidly held than is usual in this section. The variety cerato- phylla, the Stag's-horn Saxifrage, has the leaves more deeply parted, more glaucous and more rigid than the type. It is also rather larger in the rosette. Both are white flowered and cover themselves, with blossom. As one might expect from the foliage, neither needs nor likes quite so cool and damp a situation as suits the generality of Mossy Saxifrages. S. canaliculata is nearly related, being similar to S. trifurcata, except that the leaves are a softer (less blackish) green and also less rigid. S. Camposii as usually sold in nurseries is S. Wallacei. The true plant, however, is a species of much smaller growth and smaller blossoms on rather tall stems. S., cuneata is a comparatively large grower with deeply cut three-lobed foliage and white flowers, less abundantly borne than with most of the kinds mentioned. S. Maweana is. a North African and is noteworthy as a deciduous Mossy Saxifrage. It makes trailing stems which, when devoid of foliage, remind one rather of a strange Sedum than a Saxifrage. The new foliage when it breaks into leaf is a very beautiful green and the developed rosettes are handsome enough. The white flowers are of good size and freely pro- duced. It should have a warm, sheltered corner with, if possible, the shelter of a overhanging rock, as it is not over-hardy. S. caespitosa is a variable species with white flowers. A quick grower it, or the nearly related S. decipiens, is a parent, or rather an ancestor, of all the large-flowered coloured " Mossies " in cultivation. S. decipiens is very similar but larger habited. The red in the hybrids was originally obtained from the charming carpeter, S. muscoides atropurpurea. S. Guildford Seedling was the first of these hybrids and it is still one of the best, though not so strong a grower as some. The variety called sanguinea superba is one of the best red- coloured ones to date. Another admirable sort is called bathoniensis or sometimes, stupidly enough, decipiens grandiflora. There are a host of others, most of them with " blood " of the Meadow Saxi- frage, S. granulata, but many of them are coarse habited and the flowers fade badly and are very ugly when faded. There are many others of the csespitosa kin often catalogued, some of which, if not all, are, rightly speaking, forms of csespitosa or deci- piens. Such are SS. Iratiana, nevadensis, groen- landica, quinquefida, Sternbergii, Steinmanni and sponheimica. January 20, 192,5. THE GARDEN. 31 S. muscoides atropurpurea has already been referred to as the colour-bearing parent of the red- flowered hybrids. It is a natural variety or sub- ■ ["iiisdl S. muscoides and bears greenish yellow flowers which closely stud the tight carpet of miniature rosettes. There are other natural varieties besides atropurpurea. Such are crocea, with flowers yellower than the type ; pygmxa, even smaller than the species ; Allionii and densa. For smothering damp rocks or forming a close sheet of verdure in a cool position on the rockery. THE EVER-USEFUL IVY THE VERY VARIABLE SAXIFRAGA C7ESPITOSA S. muscoides and its forms are invaluable. SS. planifolia, sedoides, Seguieri, aphylla and andro- sacea all belong to the Muscoidea? — the subsection of which S. muscoides is the type plant. Larger growing than the plants of the section just mentioned, but still a dwarf, is S. hypnoides, " Dovedale Moss," as it is often called. The brightness of its emerald carpet is one of its chief attractions. In winter S. Wallacei is, indeed, its only rival, but it is, of course, an altogether smaller grower than that fine kind. An exceedingly easy " doer " and of rapid growth, it forms an excellent cover for the many bulbous plants which are suitable for the rock garden. The flower stems reach a height of 6ins. or more and the white blossoms are produced in great abundance. There is a compact variety called gemmifera, while for those who like such things there is a silver variegated form. As its English name would suggest, S. hypnoides is a native of our own Derbyshire and Yorkshire high- lands. Unless otherwise noted, all Mossy Saxifrages like a fairly well drained, but moderately damp soil in a cool (north-easterly or north-westerly) aspect. They resent drought. QUITE apart from its great beauty, is , the boldest and most notable of our I native evergreen climbers, Ivy can be put to a wide variety of uses in both town and country gardens. It is obtainable in an extraordinary num- ber of forms, or varieties, and so variable is it in the wild state that anyone in a locality where it abounds might gather half-a-dozen widely differ- ing types in a morning's walk. In our own woodland garden, a great part of which Js a rather sharp slope, this plant is exten- sively employed for cover- ing the ground, thus not only serving as a carpeter, but as a means of holding the loose, trickling soil in place. Grown in this way — and most of it has ap- peared naturally — the Ivy slope looks delightful at all seasons. It seldom needs any attention, yet the mat is never too dense to allow Snowdrops to push through it in spring. These are followed by Nar- cissi, Lily of the Valley, Anthericum, Montbretia, Schizostylis and many other things of the kind. It does not interfere with the welfare of various native and other Ferns and it helps to keep the ground cool for a number of shrubs. These last have at times to be cleared about their roots, since it is the habit of Ivy to ascend any support it comes in contact with, but we have found that, once they are established, such kinds as Rhododen- dron, Azalea and Broom and, indeed, the majority of shrubs grown in the semi-wild garden will hold their own against the Ivy carpeting. Ivy is also an excellent plant for covering the ground beneath tall trees, such as evergreen Oaks or conifers, which is often denuded of all vegetation. It can be seen planted in this way at Kew and in many other public and private gardens where it makes a rich green carpeting which demands a minimum of attention. For this purpose and that indicated in the preceding paragraph I do not think theie is anything better than a good form of the wild plant. Remarkably neat edgings can be produced with choice Ivies, whether these are trained over stone or simply grown in a line as a tiny hedge and kept close by pinching or trimming, especially in spring. In some gardens and parks this plant is utilised on verges more freely than merely as an edging. That is to say, it is planted and trained in belts or wide areas, thus taking the place of turf, which is very much more costly in upkeep. In this way a ground covering of Ivy kept to a uniform thickness of about 6ins. proves to be an admirable setting for almost any ornamental shrubs or plants. As for wear, it will be found remarkably tough and quite serviceable enough to withstand anything but regular, daily treading. Such Ivy belts as these only need shearing once or, at most, twice a season, the work does not entail much labour and the trimmings can be left to settle into the bed along with the natural partial leaf-fall of the pi. ml in spring. Though Ivy will climb 40ft. to 50ft. and more, when ascending a tree or ruin, before commencing to flower, it will often go as many yards on the fiat. As a matter of fact, one may take it that there is no limit to. the distance to which Ivy will creep, for it roots as it goes along and will continue doing so provided it is not checked and that suitable conditions exist. The object of this creeping is doubtless that of discovering some vertical object up which the plant can climb, flower and set seed ; but no one can tell what the height is at which Hedera Helix may be said to reach its full stature and become fruitful, for in one place it will be in maturity when only 3ft. to 4ft. high and at another it will still be in course of development though it has ascended to ten times that height. As for the various uses to which Ivy can be put as a covering for walls, these are so familiar that one need not dwell upon them. I may say, how- ever, that this hardy old climber will stand a town atmosphere, shade and draught better than most climbers, and if properly cared for, may be used on walls which are intended to be attractive in summer. Many of the Clematises, for example, will climb an Ivy wall, and nothing looks better than scarlet ropes of Tropajolum speciosum when trailing over the deep, glossy green of Ivy. Eccremocarpus scaber, " Morning Glories," and several other rapid climbing plants will also come to mind as suitable plants for similar company. Tree-stumps and other unsightly things, often difficult to dispose of, can be made delightful with a covering of Ivies, and in such places a collection of the finer, more " fancy " kinds can be interesting as well as beautiful. A " stumpery " with a covering of any good form of the wild Ivy and some native Ferns also, makes a first-rate setting for the Flame Nasturtium, Arenaria montana, Convolvulus althjeoides and various other plants. I have suggested the wild Ivy for most of the above purposes because it is more generally useful and is a better doer than the coloured or variegated varieties, which need — and perhaps deserve — rather more considerate treatment ; but there are also a goodly number of distinct, named kinds which possess quite enough vigour for most purposes. The Tree Ivy also deserves notice since it makes an imposing mass, or pyramid, of green which is goodly to look upon at any season, whether in the woodland, shrubbery or as a formal specimen on the lawn. Lastly, though I do not presume to have done more than offer a few suggestions as to the uses of " the Ivy green," there is the question of the Ivy-clad tree. I am not going, however, to discuss the pros and cons of Ivy as a tree-creeper, for the subject is a wide one and everything depends upon the quality, nature and uses of the trees concerned, as to whether Ivy should or should not be permitted to embrace them. In so far as we are concerned, Ivy is permitted to do as it likes with several of the old Oaks of our woodland garden. Such trees could hardly be put to better use, for the Ivy, though beautiful at all times, is not less attractive when its bright, glossy green begins to shew in vivid contrast to the warm russet and buffs of autumn, than it is to-day, when it lends an addi- tional interest to the naked trees and does no little service as a wind-break. .V. Wales. A. T. J. 32 THE GARDEN. [January 20, 1923. COMMON ERRORS IN VINE CULTURE M ANY papers have been written by myself and others on what to do in the vinery. I now propose to offer a few remarks on "what not to do." Many people aim at getting very robust growth on young Vines. They encourage the growth above ground with the idea of getting strong, healthy roots, and only a few years ago it was a common practice to allow young Vines to run wild for one or two seasons and cut them down in autumn or winter. I am afraid the practice is not yet obsolete, for only a few weeks ago I received a letter from a gardener in charge of a very important place complaining that his young Muscats had done badly ; they had made hardly any growth and the foliage was bad. This was a great disappointment after the promise they had given the year before. Now it so happened that I had samples of the growth of these Vines the previous year, and the grower was very proud of them. They were three-quarters of an inch in diameter, but the buds were not so prominent nor so regular as some under my observation, the wood of which was not more than half that size. We must expect the growth of the roots to correspond in some measure to the top growth, and my experience with large, fleshy roots is that they do not ripen, and to a great extent die back in winter. Of course the root hairs by which the roots feed are annual only, and should always die back, but the fibrils on which these root hairs are produced should not do so. One should be careful in making a new Vine border not to usy too much nitrogenous matter. APPLE Y TOWERS GRAPES AS GROWING. When I can procure good, turfy loam of medium texture, containing a fair amount of fibre, I use no nitrogenous manure with it, but only phosphates, potash and lime rubble. There must, however, be something to decompose in order to render the soil fertile. If there is a good quantitv of grass roots, this will be sufficient for a year or two, but in the absence of such roots a little strawy manure is advisable, but it should be used sparingly. Naturally, when the soil is likely to become partly- exhausted, after the Vines have come into bearing, feeding must be done. Borders are frequently made too deep. From 2ft. to 2ift. is ample. The friendly bacteria, so important in the preparation of plant food, scarcely exist at a much lower depth, nor aeration, another important matter. Outside borders are frequently made sloping. I prefer them level, so that watering, whether natural or artificial, is more likely to be regular. It is also essential, whether the Vines are planted inside or out, to know where the roots are. Bricks and mortar will not confine them. I have seen borders, both inside and out, carefully and regularly watered when they did not contain a single feeding root, these being 30ft., 50ft. or more away. It is well, therefore, before the Vines have been planted half a dozen years to cut a trench, say, 6ft. away from the stems and sever any straggling roots. If the Vines are planted inside the house, it is wise to examine outside occasionally, even if there is a gravel path, to see whether any roots are there. When roots do get outside the place so carefully prepared for them, they seem to prefer the unprepared ground. It was a common prac- tice— I do not know if it is so now — to unfasten Vine rods and bring the upper ends down as low- as possible in order to make them break more regularly. I may say I have never practised it, and when I learned that they would grow upside down as well as the ordinary way, I was convinced that bending down was unnecessary. As to the syringing usually given when they are required to start, what is it for ? The idea seems to be that it causes the rods to break more regularly and quickly. Now both the rods and the buds before the latter start into growth are im- pervious to water. The buds have layers of pro- tective scales over them, and the)' need it con- sidering the barbarities practised on them ! As fot the rods, if you cut a length, seal up the wounds and place it in watei for a week, it will be just as dry under the bark as when v. iu placed it there. Then as to syringing after growth has com- meni ed - what is that for? To keep down red spider, I am told. Well, eight vineries belonging to seven different persons under my superintendence and only in one place did red spider appear, and this was a new charge where the insects had not been exterminated in the winter. I have never syringed Vines in my life except when applying an insecticide or fungicide. The evils of syringing and too much damping down are many and great, while those who practise it regularly are not always free from red spider. Leaves grown in an atmosphere which is too damp are not so perfect at those produced under more rational conditions. Dr. Masters says in " Plant Life " : " It has lately been shewn by M. Vesque that the leaves are both thinner and longer than when grown in dry air, that the vascular bundles of the stem are also thinner and less perfectly developed than in dry air." I do not advise a perfectly dry atmo- sphere for fruit growing, but I do advise moderation. We see inside Vine borders coated with moss and lichen, yet the damping is continued. There are times when damping is beneficial ; for instance, in the early part and middle of a very hot dav, while the ventilators are open and there is danger of the temperature rising too high, but in dull weather, excepting in a forcing-house with strong fire-heat, it is not only unnecessary but harmful. Houses under my charge have frequently gone a week, even in summer, without damping. I like the surface soil to become dry sometimes if the roots are inside, so as to admit air to them and also to prevent the soil becoming sour. Damping immoderately at closing time either the soil or the leaves is barbarous ; it checks transpira- tion and consequently hinders feeding by tin- roots. Here is another point. I have seen Vine and other leaves droop in the early part of the day- after ventilation has been given, when there was no apparent reason to the casual observer. This I attribute to the atmosphere having been too moist We know that in their struggle for trans- piration in a saturated atmosphere the stomata will open to their fullest extent. If, when this condition prevails, one opens the ventilators only a very little, much of the moisture will rapidly- escape before the automatic machinery of the leaves lias had time to accommodate itself to the changed conditions. You may see the same thing take place naturally in the case of Potatoes and even the Brassica family when sudden sunshine- bursts out after a wet spell. We cannot prevent Potatoes suffering in this way, but we can Vines ' Wm. Taylor. I have had as many as A CHARMING BORAGEWORT To those who have failed with such " rnihv " charmers as Mertensia virginica may be recommended the hardly less lovely and much more accommodating M. sibirica. Though often listed among peat, even bog, plants this hardy perennial will flourish in any good border soil that is not too hot and dry. Once established, it will take care of itself for many years, coming up with refreshed vigour every spring after having died back to the base the preceding autumn. M. sibirica sends up shoots about 2ft. or more in height from a moderate- sized tuft of elegant sea green, heart-shaped leaves. The steins branch freely from about half their height to the tips, and these laterals produce a succession of flowers from about mid- summer to autumn. While the whole plant 1- .1 cool emerald, the pendulous, tubular flowers are a subtle blend of shell pink and azure, thus ma a most tasteful combination of delicate colour which is extremely taking. M. sibirica often pro- duces self-sown seedlings about the parent plant. January 20, 1923.] THE CxARDEN. 33 GLOXINIAS, THEIR CULTURE & PROPAGATION IS there any other flower capable of giving such gorgeous glowing colour radiance, in return for a moderate expenditure of care, as the Gloxinia ? I doubt it. The Begonia is a close competitor, but here we miss the wonderful violet blue and spotted flowers that the Gloxinia provides and — to my mind — the two plants never enter into competition. They are separate and distinct. Both gorgeous, both eminently desirable, both quite indispensable. But there is a point at which similitude comes in, for both — as we know them to-day — are practically man-made plants, with a long story of patient fertilisation, cross-fertili- sation, and re-crossing. As the Begonia has evolved from such lowly beginnings as B. Pearceii and B. boliviensis, so the Gloxinia has been achieved from Sinningia speciosa, inter - married with various other species, until the perfected plant is before us to-day, with its handsome leaves, giant flowers, ideal habit and exceedingly wide colour range. The original kind, S. speciosa, was introduced into this country in 1815, a small flower, violet in colour and drooping down- wards, so that one had to place the finger beneath the bloom and turn it right side upwards before one could look down into the small throat. What a miracle has since been worked ! No wonder that the present race has ceased to bend its neck stalk ! No wonder that the flowers raise their heads high and so disclose all the marvellous beauty of creamy throat and wondrous speckling of colour ! No wonder they look one straight in the face, displaying the per- fection of evenly ruled margin surrounding deep intense velvety colour. Great blooms, 3ms. or 4ins. across, in violet, purple, mauve, pink, red, scarlet, crimson, white of unblemished purity, white with mauve edge, mauve with white edge. Rule out pure blue and yellow and there is no limitation. A great story of progress, truly ! The small drooping flowers gave place first to the semi-erect type and these, finally, to the absolutely erect flowered type with a rosette of leaves and tuft of ten to twenty flowers open at one time. As one looks at a large house filled with Gloxinias one cannot help but wonder : " What are the latent possibilities of other seemingly insignificant flowers that surround us ? " This, however, is no time for dreaming. We have the grown plants, the gorgeous colourings, the perfection of flower and foliage. The days are lengthening and the season has come to sow the seeds. Before we pass to these, however, let one point be made quite clear. The Gloxinia loves heat and moisture and, for early flowers«and early seed sowing, these are essential; but — and it is capital BUT, please, Mr. Printer — this does not mean that the Gloxinia is the Drerogative of the wealthy. Grow your early flowers by all means, if you can, but remember that superb results are easily attained for July and August in cooler houses by starting tubers in March and April or A TYPICAL MODERN GLOXINIA. The illustration is by kind permission of Messrs. Black-more ami Langdon. sowing seeds then tor succeeding years. Every seed sown is a riddie, for it contains we know not what ; so that as large a number as possible should be grown on to the flowering size. And here one comes to one of the great merits 01 the plant, for the number of plants that one wishes to discard at flowering is surprisingly small. Poor types, to such a high state of perfection has a good strain been brought, are non-existent. The seed is minute and those who make the mistake of distributing it too thickly will find that they have sown two kinds together — the Gloxinia seeds and the seeds of endless trouble — when prick- ing off time comes. Clean and wpl drained pans should be prepared by filling them to within halt an inch of the rim with a compost prepared as follows. Take two parts of fibrous loam and add to those half a part each of peat, leaf-mould and sharp, coarse gritty silver sand, turning the wrho!e several times until they are thoroughly mixed together. The coarser part of this should be put over the drainage and the top half inch in the pans should be finely silted. Press firm, witer lightly and stand asde for an hour or two to drain thoroughly. Scatter the seed on the surface an 1 without covering in any way with soil, place a pane of glass over the top, together with a sheet of brown paper, and stand in a temperature ot 65" to 700. Here the usual routine work must be followed until the young plants have made their appearance Do not let the sun shine upon them, do not let the soil become dry ; do not let the moisture that condenses on the glass remain there ; reverse the glass and so dispel it again into the atmosphere. Presently, wee specks of green will appear here and there on the surface of the soil. Little specks, so small that at first one has to look twice to make sure that the eyes do not deceive. Then the brown paper must be removed to permit light (but not sun) to reach the seedlings, though the glass should be retained because of its assistance in maintaining the necessary humid atmosphere. The specks of green make rapid progress and one soon has tangible results for former care, with — oh '. joyous sight — visions of " single pots " ahead ; an array of rapidly growing little plants, neatly " staged " side by side and ever demanding more and more spacing out. I think that this gay glad springtime when all is hope and progress, with numberless pots filled with seedlings for which he is ever seeking further " standing room," is one of the happiest seasons in all the gardener's year But I anticipate, for the important work of pricking-off has first to be performed. Do not let the seedlings become crowded in the pans. It sowing has been too thickly done, it is best to lift the small plants on the point of a sharpened stick and transfer them to other pans prepared in a similar way. If not, wait until the leaves are half an inch long before transferring to separate pots. As the spring days lengthen and the sun gains power, do not overlook the inevitable fluctuation in temperature that is bound to occur, but, keep it as even as possible. Air is desirable, but must be given cautiously, remembering our starting point of heat and moisture. If the latter is abundant, a rise in the temperature to 85° or even 90° wall not prove injurious ; but, if the air be dry. very nigh temperatures spell ruination. By early May the small pots will have become full of roots, the large, velvety leaves will be well developed and bending down over the edge of the pots and a " shift " becomes imperative. Five- inch sized pots meet the case for the first year and, in these, the Gloxinias will " prove " themselves and shew their quality before the middle of August. One must water, ventilate and care for them with unremitting attention all the while, taking care never to spill water over the foliage or to permit a draught to pass across the plants. Here, I think, we may leave the young plants, full of promise that will not be disappointed, and return again to the early days of the year, when, in addition to the seedlings, there are last year's tubers awaiting attention. These have been stored since autumn, when the last of the leaves died down as water was gradually reduced in response to the plant's evident desire to rest after its efforts. Storage has probably been effected by lying the pots on their sides in a dry place where the temperature ranged about 50''. They must now be taken out of their pots and have all the old soil shaken away pre- paratory to starting them again into growth. My own pet method of doing this last is to sort the tubers into sizes and arrange them in shallow wooden seed trays filled w-ith a mixture of peat and fibrous loam. The trays I stand in a propa- gating case right over the hot-water pipes, so that they will enjoy a uniform temperature of 700 to 8o°, with a rise of 50 by day. Where batches are to be started in succession, care should be taken that those which, last year, were flowered first are used for the earliest blooms this year, so that 34 THE GARDEN. [January 20, 192 each may have its due season of rest. Successional batches may follow in February and March and these will start readily in a temperature of 65° to 75° by night, with a rise of a few degrees by day, so that readers will appreciate that the Gloxinia is a very " elastic " plant, very willing to adapt itself to the best that can be provided. As soon as they have well " broken," the tubers should be lifted from the boxes, with as much soil as possible clinging to the roots, and then be placed in single pots. The size of the pot varies with the age of the tuber, double the diameter of the tuber being about right. Use a compost of equal parts of fibrous loam, peat and leaf-mould, well decayed . ow manure and enough coarse silver sand to make its presence seen through the whole heap as it is turned about with the spade. Pot firmly without making the soil too hard and press down more firmly round the rim so that the tuber is set on the top of a slight mound, as this prevents water lodging near the crown when watering is done. Shade from bright sunlight, but grow the plants near the glass so that they will be dwarf and stocky. In about eight weeks larger pots will be necessary, using a similar compost to the above, but adding a little cow manure and bone meal. It is desirable to keep the plants a little closer for a few days after potting, then to admit air as usual, taking care that this is not in such quantities as to dry the atmosphere and that there is plenty of well diffused light. When buds begin to appear from the centre, liquid manure may be given twice a week, taking care to keep this off the leaves. When the first flowers open, discontinue feeding and remove the plants to a lower temperature, so that the blooms may last as long as possible. Care should be taken during summer, if the days are cool and cloudy, to have a little fire to warm the pipes at night so that the air is kept light and dry. If this is not done, light coloured flowers may suffer by tiny specks of cold condensation falling upon them, which results in their becoming peppered with small brown spots. Few pests trouble the Gloxinia grower if normal conditions are maintained, but if the atmosphere is allowed to become too dry, thrips are certain to prove troublesome. For these and the unwelcome greenfly, light and repeated fumigation are the only remedy ; one cannot spray and syringe the foliage as is done with other plants. Flowering completed, a very important stage in the plant's life is reached, for upon their treatment during the succeeding weeks depends the whole of their future well-being. More air must be admitted, also fuller light so that the large leaves gradually begin to turn yellow. Reduce the supply of water, not suddenly, but little by little, almost imper- ceptibly ; the aim is not to hasten maturity, but to supply just enough to enable the leaves to complete their functions and then drive back every ounce of energy they contain into the tuber itself for the following year. When this stage has been reached and the last of the leaves has fallen naturally, turn the pots on their sides and store in the soil in a temperature of 50°. This should not be done in too dry a place ; below the stage, where drip cannot fall upon the soil, is excellent though one must be sure that wood lice are not present, for I have found that these are responsible for considerable damage by tunneling among and eating the tubers during the dormant period. We have dealt with seeds and starting tubers, we have carried the plants through a complete season of growth, spoken of the pests that are liable to attack them and put them to bed for the resting period. Now comes the question of propagating any specially good kind that may appear — true to type. Seed will not do ; cross pollination comes in and with it the inevitable variation, but leaf cuttings taken off about midsummer solve the problem fully and satisfactorily. Mature leaves are essential and these should be taken off with the leaf stalk attached. Where but a single tuber is required from a leaf, this may be inserted, just as it is, to the base of the leaf blade, but where each leaf has to produce several new tubers, the mid rib should be nicked here and there and either pegged or weighted into contact with the soil. The pot which is to contain the cuttings should be filled in the ordinary way and surfaced with half an inch of sand. Place the pots in a temperature of 700, keep just damp and, 11 irse of time, a small swelling will form at each cut. later developing into a small, fleshy tuber. From this roots will push and eventually leaves, when the young plant is well upon its way. H. W. C-W. NOTES OF THE WEEK THERE is a tendency for all but the most scientific of us to attach over-much importance to our own experiences. This does not apply alone to gardening matters, but it does apply to them in a marked degree. We see an effect and grope for the cause. Our ultimate deduction may be right or wrong. Even if it be right we are apt to generalise without the necessary material on which to found a broad judgment. Peccavi ! Because, in his experience, seedling Heaths never sprang up in ordinary sweet garden loam, though they would appear in myriads in pockets of specially prepared material, the Editor hazarded the suggestion that something, perhaps a vegetable growth, in the humus was necessary, as with Orchids, to make germination effective. Along comes a valued correspondent and squashes the idea ! at any rate as regards the humus being necessary. Few of us have the time or the facilities to test our theories exhaustively. The most we can do is to submit them for the consideration of others. This is where the corres- pondence columns of The Garden are of value. The accumulated experience of a number of readers from widely separated districts and with various soils and climatic conditions is worthy of respect ! Birds and the Gardener. — To publish any reference to methods of destroying superfluous bird life is always to bring down on the Editor a shoal of protests from bird-lovers, usually with extracts from the writings of Professor Somebody- or-Another, setting forth the good work that birds do for the gardener and, very possibly, citing the melancholy example of France, where birds were systematically exterminated. The comparison does not, of course, hold water. The writer of the article on " Trapping Vermin," which has elicited a budget of protesting letters, would, we are sure, be one of the last to depreciate the good that birds do in the garden when in reasonable numbers. The majority of species, however, become a plague if too numerous, which, under the more or less artificial conditions now obtaining, they are apt to do and there seems no valid reason why Nature's sure but, seemingly, cruel reduction in the first hard winter should not be anticipated when the excess warrants interference. Jays and hawfinches when in excessive numbers make of no avail the gardener's efforts to reap where he has sown and the immense flocks of starlings and rooks in some districts not only do a distressing amount of harm themselves, but, by exhausting the insect food, drive to evil ways the blackbirds and thrushes. This is not to deny the good that rooks and starlings do when in moderate numbers, but to plead for their reduction when the flocks become too, large. The same story may be told, with variations, as regards chaffinches and the various tits. It is to be feared that the " case " in favour of these latter is improved by special pleading. Even scientific gentlemen have been known to admire a shapely ankle ! and the tits are certainly entertaining little fellows ; so, for that matter, is the bullfinch 1 The Ramondias. — It is a commonplace of of catalogues that these beautiful flowers need a cliff-face with a north aspect if they are to flourish outdoors in our climate. The almost perpendicular cliff to ensure the w'ater draining from the heart is, indeed, essential, but it is not sufficiently realised that they are, in nature, woodland plants. Even in the Pyrenean forests, where they wild in large matted patches, they only seem really happy when on the north side of the rock which forms their home. Thev love a soil rich in humus A GOOD PLANT OF RAMONDIA^ PYRENAICA. January 20, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 35 CORRESPONDENCE GREAT TITMICE AND PEAS. TV/fAY I be allowed the honour of being one of those " kindly souls " who would remonstrate with the contributor to The Garden for January 6 upon his practice of " accounting for a good many tits" in the interest of his crop of Peas? Personally, I would forego the taste of green Peas for ever rather than eat them at the cost of breaking the backs of such exquisite creatures as oxeyes. I wonder whether Mr. Wood, after a successful working of his traps, has ever held in his hand the dead body of a great titmouse, and looking upon the pitiful little heap of feathers, really felt con tented with his handiwork. If so, will he read the following extract from the report bn this species by Mr. Robert Newstead, F.R.S., which appeared in the Supplement to the Journal of the Board of Agriculture for December, 19.08, and then perhaps he will cease, even at the cost of a few pods of Peas, to rob his neighbours of these useful and delightful garden guests ? " In June, 1908, 1 watched a pair of Great Titmice (Parus major) which had a brood of 8 young. 90 per cent, of the food brought in to the young consisted of the larvte of Geometrid moths, which were collected chiefly from the damson, apple and oak trees in the immediate neighbourhood of the nest. Those collected from the fruit trees were chiefly those ot the winter moth (C. brumata) and those from the oak the Mottled Umber Moth (H. defoliaria). Usually one caterpillar was brought in to the young on each occasion, and often four visits were made in the course of five minutes. If we take the average number of visits at the rate of 24 per hour fori6 hours, representing one working day, this gives us a total of 384 visits per day. And if 20 days are occupied in rearing the young, this gives us a grand total of 7,680 visits to the nest during this period, so that the single pair of birds would be responsible for the destruction of between 7,000 and 8,000 insects, chiefly caterpillars.'' — R. Hudson. THE SCOTCH MARIGOLD. ""PHE old name of Calendula officinalis (see page 662, December 30, last), was the Pot Marigold, because the chef was wont to use the orange rays to give flavour and colour to soups and other dishes. The name Scotch Marigold may have been due to the assiduity with which the northern seedsmen grew, selected and improved it during its period of comparative neglect in the south. For some years past it has been growing in favour, with marked improvement in the size of the flowers. Our garden being overrun with small though beautiful varieties, I introduced a large one last season and, like C. T., I was impressed with its beauty and durability in the cut state. I also found that the young blooms were the most durable, because they had not completed their growth. Another feature of this Marigold is the earliness with which self-sown plants come into bloom, and the length of time during which they remain in flower. I long ago noted the profusion of blossom on the railway banks in the south-east of London, where they had escaped from gardens and kept up a display long after flowers in the garden were getting scarce. Plenty of these Marigolds can be seen flowering in Lincolnshire at the present time. — J. F. A RECORD AURATUM LILY? TS the following description of Lilium auratuin a record or unusual ? From one bulb planted in a pot and grown last summer in a greenhouse there were four stems bearing seventy-eight blooms, all out at the same time and a magnificent sight, as the accompanying photograph suggests. — " Subscriber," East Grinstcad. [Without expressing any opinion as to the flowering of this bulb being a record, we have not soil. At one time they were supposed to require a bed of pure sea sand, but this is not essential ; where, however, sea sand is readily available it with advantage be mixed with the soil <>f the border. Myosotidium nobile is an extremely rare plant in nature (probably also a very ancient one), being confined to a few spots in the remote Chatham Islands, which are famous also for being the home of the Tuatera lizard, most ancient of living reptiles. Like so many New Zealand plants;: the "Lily" has been almost exterminated since the in- troduction of domestic animals, for it lacks the coarse hairs on the foliage and stem which in^most of the Boraginaceie act as a deterrent to browsing animals. There are, indeed, few plants more worthy of trial in the gardens of south - western England and Ireland, as well as the mild west coast of Scot- land. It enjoys a moist atmosphere and plenty of water at the roots in hot weather, but, of course, the drainage must be perfect. — N. G. Hadden. TI A MAGNIFICENT PLANT OF LILIUM AURATUM. the slightest hesitation in describing it as exceedingly unusual, otherwise Lilium auratum would be even more popular than it is ! — Ed.] THE CHATHAM ISLAND LILY. CURELY the writer of the very interesting article on " The Borage Order " in this week's issue has never seen the Chatham Island Lily (Myosotidium nobile) in all its glory ! Or is it a case of " sour grapes " ? It is true that the plant is only happy in the mildest districts, as indeed are many other beautiful plants, but that does not affect its value where it does thrive. To describe " the giant forget-me-not flowers " as " blue and white," is hardly correct, for they are of a wonder- fully deep intense blue with a velvety sheen, and so far as I recollect they do not shew white anywhere, even in the eye. The flowers are borne in a dense head 2ins. to sins, across, each corolla being over Jin. in diameter. The great glossy foliage of a healthy plant is most handsome, more resembling one of the large-leaved Megaseas than any of the Borage tribe, and forms an admirable foil to the noble flower heads. Myosotidium is a short-lived plant (in England, at any rate), and must be raised periodically from seed. Fortunately, seed ripens and germinates well and the young plants make good growth when transplanted to a partially shaded position in rich deep well drained PLANTS FOR SWITZERLAND. HERE must be some sad misunderstanding as to facilities for export- ing plants from England to Switzerland. For many months I have had great difficulty in getting plants from England. Some of my friends (and some nurserymen, too !), said they could not send me plants because the Post Office asked them for a permit from our (Swiss) Government. I wrote to the Government at Berne asking for an explanation, and here is the answer : " There is no prohibition as to importing plants, except as regards Roses and certain fruit trees. Other living plants do not fall under the Restriction Act and may be freely imported into Switzerland." This is the reply of the Government department concerned. Please publish this so that every nurseryman in England may know the facts and may deal firmly with your Post Office ! — Henev Correvon. PERENNIALS FROM SEED. HTHERE are one or two points in the interesting article under the above heading in The Garden for December 23, last, to which I should like to refer. In the first place the writer says that self-sown seedling Heaths " never spring up " in soil that is " without peat or leaf-mould," i.e., fungus-carrying material. Our experience here is that we can always rely upon self-sown seedlings of Ericas vagans, cinerea and vulgaris appearing in the raw, freshly-exposed soil of our heath bank, soil that is nothing more than poor, gritty shale. Even when this is thrown out from a considerable depth Erica seedlings , will come up and survive where there is not too much direct sun heat. As to the Moonlight Broom, the same article M THE GARDEN. [January 20, 1923. mentions this variety as one to be raised " freely from seed." Are we to understand that this very choice form can be relied upon to come true, and if so, why does it remain comparatively so expen- r - I am assuming that the form referred to as 1 \ 1 isus sulphureus is synonymous with C. scoparius pallidus. Then we are told that beautiful hybrid, Cytisus precox usually reverts when produced from seed. This is doubtless what one might expect, but we have grown this variety in quantity here for over ten years and have never yet seen a single seed on any of the plants, though they are laden with blossom every season. What is the explanation ? ■ — A. T. Johnson, N. Wales. [Truly it is unsafe to argue from the particular to the general, but the statement that seedling Heaths never spring up in soil devoid of considerable humus was founded on considerable personal experience. The Moonlight Broom, Cytisus scoparius sulphureus — the official name for the plant usually known in gardens as C. s. pallidus — has, in the Editor's experience, always come true from seed, but the plant from which several batches were raised was itself a stray seedling on a bank adjacent to a rubbish heap and some distance away from other Brooms. It is a little surprising to hear of the failure of C. precox to seed, though it is anything but a free seeder. Seeds of it, however, " SUNSHINE IN MID-WINTER, CHIMONANTHUS FRAGRANS ON A WALL. arc not seldom offered by firms who specialise in perennials from seed. —Ed.] THE WINTER SWEET. 'M'O one who knows the Winter Sweet will grudge the praise bestowed upon it by the writer of the note on page 6, January 6. I have never noticed any uncertainty, however, in the date of flowering. Here it always seems to give a few flowers in November, which gradually lead up to a full display about the end of December, and its delicious, spicy fragrance then, on a damp mild evening, is something worth remembering. There seem to be two distinct varieties, and we have both here. One has a much larger flower and never fails to carry a liberal crop, while the other, with identical treat- ment, gives only a few straggling blooms which are later as well as smaller. Formerly w-e had both on the same wall and side by side, and the inferiority of this was so marked that eventually it came to an inglorious end in the and the other extended to fill the enclose a photograph of part of this taken at Christmas. I have never known the plant to bear seed here. It is a great pity the inferior one should ever be propagated, as it can never be anything but a disappointment to the buyer.— H. C. W., Lingfield. TRAPPING VERMIN ■\\f ITH reference to notes on " Trapping Vermin," signed H. C. Wood, in January 6 issue of The Garden, I agree in deploring the action of those who, in the interests of sport, are trying to exterminate the raptorial birds and small car- nivore, and would also condemn the thoughtless activity of our rude forefathers who, in the supposed interests of the human race, succeeded in killing off the large carnivore. These, if " left to do the work for which they seem to have been created," might have made a meal of the gardener who can only manage to grow sufficient Peas and small caterpillars for his own table, and has nothing but traps for his active friend the tomtit. — John Watson. " ^RAPPING VERMIN ! " (The Garden, Jan. 6, page n) including, under that ugly word, tits and bullfinches ! Sparrows I excuse mention of, providing, of course, it should be made clear that house sparrows are meant. The writer asks that " kindly souls should consider well the ways of nature to learn the truth about the matter." There are some kindly souls who consider very well the " ways of nature," and know the almost incalculable amount of good small birds do. No hawk, owl, stoat or weasel, however valuable in other directions, would kill the grubs, caterpillars and tiny insects which, left unmolested, would THE WINTER SWEET, CHIMONANTHUS FRAGRANS. garden fire space. I prevent our having fruit or vegetables at all. Even the house sparrow does good in nesting time, feeding its young on insects. May I recommend an interesting book for perusal by all interested in Nature — " The Story of the Fields," by Fabre ; it is charmingly written and contains much information. — (Mrs.) H. C. Ford, Yealand Conyers. CHRYSANTHEMUM TOKIO. T AM much obliged to Mr. Harman Payne for what he states about the Chrysanthemum Tokio. The flowers I so admired at the Monte Carlo and Nice shows had the bright colour outside, that is, on the back of the petals, so he will under- stand why I never dreamt of connecting these splendid and brightly coloured exhibition blooms with the thin and rather pale-coloured blooms I ' now remember to have seen in London some fifteen years ago. Flowers grown in this clear southern light and open air are so much brighter in colour than under glass that the flowers I so praised may possibly be Tokio ; but if so, it must, I think, have been treated with some special manure that has given it such a clear rose colour. In the dwarf specimen plants there were some petals in the centre that had opened and shewed a much paler colour inside, so the colour is on the back of the petal. Mr. Harman Payne and I may not always agree as to our standard of beauty, but I think the shaggy little single Japanese dwarf Chrysanthemums would strike him as a variant to the extremely stiff and, in my judgment, ugly dwarfs of the type of Baronne de Vinols that offend my eye exceedingly. I am sorrv to say I have not seen the Paris shows. November is more attractive on these shores than even a Chrysanthemum show ! — Edward H. Woodall, Nice. January 20, 1923. THE GARDEN. 37 THE AFTER CARE OF FRUIT TREES BY now most of the new trees have been planted in the garden. T am often risked the best plan to adopt with regard to their treatment subsequent to plant- ing. It is an all-important question, for a vcung tree can quite easily be made or marred at this stage. Pruning we will take last, and apart from this the treatment consists in maintaining the correct amount of moisture and nourishment. I ought 1 1 mention that I am taking the case of quite a young tree throughout, say, from a maiden to a four year standard ; and not so much large, more mature trees which are often moved and replanted. It is difficult to start young, newly planted trees growing well and producing much wood the first year, and thus every effort must be made to conserve moisture and to feed for growth. If it is convenient to water them, of course this is excellent in moderation and should certainly be done. If, however, this is impracticable, frequent hoeings around the roots should be given, thus helping, to great extent, to conserve the moisture. When I was a boy I could never make out why hoeing ever kept in the moisture , it seemed to me that it would tend to allow the water to evapoiate more quickl}-, and even older men are rather puzzled now. The fact is that there are a very large number of minute tubes in settled ground leading upwaids to the surface from the moisture-holding earth below. The moisture is drawn up these tubes by capillary attraction and, on reaching the top, of course evaporates. It is easy to understand, then, that by hoeing these tubes are broken and, as it were, stopped up, thus preventing the moisture from escaping. This information seems rarely to be given in text books, but is useful to know. Hoeing is extremely beneficial for conserving the moisture. One of the best plans, however, is, about April, to mulch each tree with good straw dung which, besides keeping the roots damp, will feed them and enable the trees to make much better growth. The question of pruning newly planted trees is a very debatable one, and opinions differ, but the plan I give below is the generally accepted one. The first aim at this age is to promote growth and a good shape, but the question is whether to prune soon after planting or to wait until the following autumn. Xow, where the trees were planted very early in the autumn as soon as the leaves started falling, they have had a chance to form new root fibres immediately and, in the following year, will have the power to form strong and reasonably long new wood. In this case it is advisable to prune, say, in the February following planting, and provided the land is not too poor in plant food (nitrogenous especially) they will make quite considerable numbers of good shoots the following summer. This only applies to early planted trees, as it should not be done with trees planted in late winter or spring. The policy with these is to defer the pruning for one year, as they will have made no appreciable move the summer following planting, and their root system will only just be making headway. If pruned, they will only make weak wood averaging not more than sins, or 4ms. in length. Xow, during the winter, a year after their first pruning, the new shoots require to be thinned out ■ — bearing in mind the best shape for the tree in after years and the positions for the branches. Cut out weak side shoots useless for making branches, leaving only the leading growths at the ends. These leaders should be cut back t.i half their original length so as to encourage, in the following summer, strong new wood suitable for retention in the tree to form more branches. A year later the above plan should again be followed, cutting back to two buds those shoots which cross or rub against one another, and also those which are not wanted to form the shape of the tree. This time cut back the leaders to two- thirds and the next year the tree will be taking on a really good shape, easy to pick and to spray. If worked on the Paradise stock it should also be funning a few fruit-buds. Of course, in lati 1 years the modus operandi will consist qi thinning the branches and pruning according to variety and various other considerations which will be found in any good text book on the subject. If suitable varieties are chosen at the outset, good pruning and waging unremitting war on insects by grease-banding and spraying will make the garden orchard a source of continual delight. Not only will the result be satisfactory from ,L pecuniary standpoint, but there will also be much sheer pleasure gained in tending and admiring trees worthy of any garden. See- Jee. WINTER FRUIT SPRAYING Spraying is of such real value and importance that it should be one of the routine winter tasks in every garden, instead of in the comparatively few as at present. The health and strength of the trees are improved and, consequently, much letter fruits are given. IT is freely said by the commercial fruit growers of the country that one of the principal reasons why woolly aphis and numerous other pests are so prevalent and so persis- tent is that the owners and managers of private gardens, large and small, do not adopt adequate steps to destroy these pests ; in fact, that the majority of private gardeners, large and small again, do not take any steps at all. This is a very serious indictment and, at the risk of treading on the toes of a strictly limited few readers of The Garden, one is forced to believe that there is substantial justification for it. There are hundreds of gardens within whose gates a spray- ing machine has never been seen, and there are hundreds of others which may boast the possession of a good machine that has not been, and is not now, used. Appliances are at hand or can be purchased at reasonable prices and excellent washes are advertised regularly in these pages. Why then, is not spraying or washing or dressing, or whatever anyone may choose to call it, a regular winter operation ? Can it be asserted substantially that the fruit trees in private gardens are not heirs to the enemies which attack them when they are grown in commercial gardens ? Can it be asserted that the enemies bred in private gardens do not migrate thence to other pastures as they do from one commercial garden to another ? Is the operation so difficult of accomplishment or so objectionable in application that the private gardener cannot or will not undertake it ? Has not the private gardener reliable knowledge of what to apply and when to apply it ? Or, is it that private gardens are so inadequately staffed that it is impossible to find the time requisite, not merely to do the work, but to do it well, a> it must be done if it is to justify itself ? One concludes that the cause of neglect lies chiefly in the last-named difficult position and in the fact that there are still private gardeners, just as there are still commercial growers, who have no belief in outdoor spraying, whether it is directed against the enemies of vegetables or fruits. Enough of one aspect of the matter. Let us turn to the work itself or to such of it as should have attention during the period when the trees are at rest. Winter washing has for its objects the removal of lichens and mosses on the bark of bole and branches, of enemy eggs where this is possible, and of enemy larva? lurking in congenial nooks and crannies in the rough bark and in the forks. At the present time there are three standard solutions for this purpose, the oldest of which is lime wash, the next a caustic wash and the junior lime-sulphur — and the last named, having been invested with wondrously varied powers, is the most popular. Which is the best under all con- ditions it is quite impossible to say. As an occasional dressing lime has no superior, but it cannot be employed advantageously season after season. It is a splended cleanser, and any eggs which can be addled it will account for, and the foliage of the trees will be finer in texture and richer in colour in the season following. Application should be made through an easv jet and not through a spraying nozzle, as no matter how carefully the straining has been done blockages, causing irritation and waste of lime, are sure to occur. The quantity used should be abundant to the point of extravagance completely to coat every inch of bark and to fill every nook, cranny and fork, leaving plenty over to go on the ground, where it will do an equal amount of good, though in a different manner, as all gardeners know The one serious objection to it is that men simply abhor handling it and will make any excuse to evade the task. However, that is a little matter which must be adjusted by employer and employed on the merits of each case Springing from first to last, we will now speak of the immensely popular and convenient lime- sulphur. No one can seriously question the useful- ness of this wash provided that a compound of the highest grade is bought and that it is efficiently applied, but it must not be anticipated that it will equal either lime or a caustic wash in cleansing the worst encrusted trees of lichens and mosses. A perfect solution will be richly gorgeous in hue and quite clear, and when it is reduced by the addition of water it will be characterised by a perfume which is very much not that of my lady's boudoir. Whether it is required in big or little quantities, it should be purchased and not com- pounded at home, because the manufactured article is vastly superior to the home product. It should be bought under a guarantee of 1.3 specific gravity. If the appliances are clean, it can be used through any nozzle, and it should not be stinted, though there is no justification . for wastefulness. It is of outstanding value for regular application to keep clean trees in a proper state of cleanness, and it can be used at practically any time, with the proviso that there must come reduction in strength with young shoots on the plants, and that particular care is taken in its use for American gooseberry mildew, in the suppression of which it has been proved to be of the utmost value. Now to the caustic wash, which is probably the most effectual destructor of lichens and mosses of all winter dressings. It can be procured in several forms, according to the main object of application, but, in the simple state, it consists 38 THE GARDEN. [January 20, 1923. of lib. of caustic soda. 98 per cent., dissolved in 10 gallons of water, and its greatest value is reached when it is applied fairly hot. It was urged some ago that the addition of crude commercial potash was a substantial advantage, but as a matter of fact it does not improve it in the slightest degree, and may therefore be ignored. When it is scrubbed hot on to rough bark, worked vigorously into nooks, crannies and forks it will destroy lichens and mosses almost instantly, and neither egg nor larva can withstand it. In those parts of the trees where it is impossible to scrub it must be applied through a spraying machine, and there can be no doubt as to the value of fineness o£ division, since it is that which adheres and not that which runs down that is beneficial. Therefore use Hi finest available nozzle and drive until tin' solution comes forth in a dense mist, as none will then be lost. It is not the nicest stuff in the world to handle, as there is no question as to its powers of burning. Old clothes, old boots and old (good rubber ones are better still) and a wideawake hat ought to be worn, and the operator of the sprayer should be scrupulously careful to stand with his back to the wind to avoid the irritation of burning drops on the face and the taste of even minute quantities in the mouth. There is one point in connexion with it that may well be impressed, and that is to use it during the dormant period only, since it will burn anything that shews the slightest signs of active lif-. \V. H. Lodge. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Brussels Sprouts. — For an early supply an autumn sowing should have been made, but if this was not done seeds may now be sown in boxes and the seedlings raised in a cool pit or greenhouse. To secure first quality Sprouts a long period of growth is necessary, and to this end a sowing should be made in the open ground as soon as the soil is suitable. Two reliable varieties are Exhibi- tion and Scrymger's Giant. Lettuce. — Seed may be sown in boxes of light soil or in frames, selecting a cabbage variety such as Tom Thumb. Spinach. — A sowing of this desirable vegetable should be made in a sheltered situation. To keep up a supply another sowing must be made a fortnight hence, and so on for the next few months. To secure fresh succulent leaves, the seedlings must be thinned early and the soil kept free of weeds. Leeks. — The main crop of Leeks may be sown during the next week or two, selecting a piece of ground that recently has received a liberal dressing of decayed manure. Leeks enjoy a rich soil and ample room for development, so the seeds should be sown thinly in wide drills ift. apart. Carrots. — If a cold frame is available it should be utilised for Carrots, choosing a quick maturing variety, such as Scarlet Horn. Old potting soil is excellent for placing in the frames. After the soil has been made fairly firm and level, sow the seed thinly over the surface, raking it in with an iron rake. Keep the soil just moist and admit air whenever the weather is mild A partly spent hot-bed is also suitable for an early supply of Carrots and Radishes. The Flower Garden. Antirrhinums. — During the last few years these delightful plants have become exceedingly popular, and it is not surprising when we know how excellent they are for bedding purposes. The best effect, no doubt, is produced by beds of a single colour, rather than a mixed display. For general bedding the intermediate varieties are to be recommended. Seed may now be sown in boxes of fight soil placed in a warm greenhouse. When the seeds have germinated, remove the boxes to a cooler structure, keeping the seedlings fairly near the roof glass. Avoid over watering or they may damp off. When the young plants are large enough to handle prick them off in boxes or frames a few inches apart and admit air whenever the weather is suitable. If frames are chosen, arrange them on a hard bottom, fill up with a few inches of light soil and when the pricking off is completed keep the lights closed for a few days until the plants are re-established. Snapdragons should be grown as cool as possible to promote a sturdy, short- jointed growth. Propagation. — Continue to propagate such plants as Coleus, Heliotrope, Marguerites and Salvias, and pot off Pelargoniums ready for filling the flower beds in May. Fruit Under Glass. Strawberries. — A batch of plants should now be introduced to a cool house, and after a week or two the temperature should be increased to 55°. Gentle forcing, especially in the early stages, must be practised or the crowns will fail to produce a satisfactory crop. On bright days a fight syringing overhead with tepid water will be beneficial, but this must be discontinued while the plants are in bloom. Over watering must be avoided, but the roots ought never to suffer from lack of moisture. When the flowers are open lightly touch them with a rabbit's tail or large camel-hair brush, keep the atmosphere on the dry side and ventilate the house each day when the elements are favourable. Directly it can be ascertained which are the best fruits, the inferior ones should be removed, and the plants then fed with liquid manure or Le Fruitier. Tomatoes. — Seeds may be sown in pots of hght '.oil and if they are placed in a temperature of 65° germination will soon be apparent. When the seedlings are through the soil, keep them within reasonable distance of the roof glass, and pot them off singly in a mixture of loam and leaf-mould directly they are large enough. Never permit the roots to become starved. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Neglected Orchards. — For some reason orchard trees are sadlv neglected, they are seldom pruned or sprayed, and the fruit is often inferior in quality. The present is a good time to look over the trees, cutting out all dead wood, thinning the growths especially in the centre, and shortening any branches that may be interfering with neigh- bouring trees. The object is to allow sunshine and air to get among the trees at all seasons of the year. T. W. Briscoe (Gardener to W. R. I.ysaght, Esq.), Castle/ord, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Parsnips. — The remaining roots should be lifted and pitted row to permit of the ground being dug or trenched, and so be in readiness for spring cropping. Early Peas. — It is too soon to recommend the sowing of even early Peas generally ; still. those who have the advantage of a rather light soil and a south border with a wall behind may chance an earlv sowing now if the condition of the soil permits. It will only be necessary to fork over a breadth of about iSins. along the lines where the Peas are to be sown. Do not sow too deeply and partially fill up the drills with some old potting soil and a sprinkling of wood-ashes. Laxton's Superb, The Pilot and William Hurst are suitable varieties for this sowing. Before sowing damp the seeds and roll them in dry red lead so as to ward off the attacks of mice or rats. Jerusalem Artichokes. — As the growth of these commences early, the remainder of the crop should now be lifted and stored in sand or light soil in a cool cellar or out of doors. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Supports for Fruit Nets. — Crops of bush fruits can be picked much more comfortably when a framework a little higher than the bushes is pro- vided for supporting the nets than when the nets are allowed to rest on the bushes. Where such framework is already in existence it should be examined and repaired if necessary. Those who intend to introduce this system should have the structure erected before the rush of spring work comes on. The Flower Garden. Lily of the Valley. — Although one would not suspect it, Lily of the Valley is a gross feeder, and requires liberal cultivation to provide really good spikes of bloom. Autumn is the best time for forming fresh plantations, but the operation can be successfully performed in spring just as the plants are beginning to move. Those who contemplate spring planting should have the bed or beds prepared as soon as possible. Trench double dig the soil, and if it is at all stiff, add sand or light soil and incorporate a good quantity of farmyard manure with the soil as the work pro-- ceeds. Established plantations should receive a liberal mulching of farmyard manure. Top-Dressing Bulbs. — Established beds of Dog's-Tooth Violets, Scillas, Fritillarias and other small bulbous plants should be top-dressed with fresh fibrous loam or old potting soil mixed with half-decayed leaves. Auriculas. — Beds of Auriculas, Polyanthuses and Primroses are all benefited by an annual top-dressing as recommended for small bulbs, as they incline to get leggy if left to themselves. The application of a suitable top-dressing results in the emission of fresh roots from the necks of the plants, which means their reinvigoration. Gladioli. — The foliage of these will now thoroughly be ripened, so the conns should be freed of the foliage and all loose coating and stored in a dry, cool place ready for starting indoors or planting in the open. Dahlias. — Sufficient tubers should, during the next fortnight, be brought into a vinery that has been started or other warm structure to furnish cuttings to be rooted later on. Dahlias are deservedly popular at present. Fruit Under Glass. The Early Vinery. — Vines which were started early will require disbudding. The best time to carrv out the operation is just as the buds burst, rubbing all out except the strongest one on each spur. The night temperature for Hamburghs at this stage should be about 55°. Muscats require a rather higher temperature. Ventilate slightly whenever there is bright sunshine, partly to avoid sudden fluctuations of temperature and also to induce a firm, sturdy growth from the start. Tomatoes. — Plants resulting from seed sown early in December should now be ready to pot off. Use 3in. pots, and a good preventive against damping is to place the plantlets near the edge of the pots instead' of in the centre. Another sowing may now be made to provide plants to be grown in frames or other cool structures. For this purpose it is best to employ varieties that produce good trusses of rather undersized fruits. Stirling Castle and Lister's Prolific are typical examples. Charles Comfort (Formerly Head-Gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field] Davidson's Mains, Midlothian). GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Salvia Heerii. — Most of the greenhouse Salvias flower during the autumn, but S. Heerii has the advantage of flowering early in the New Year, thus frequently escaping the fogs that so often spoil the autumn-flowering species in the neigh- bourhood of London. S. Heerii may be propa- gated during March or April, and the resultant plants may be planted out during the summer, lifting and potting them up in the autumn and wintering them in a cool greenhouse. Cyclamen. — Young plants that were raised from seed last August and pricked off in pans or boxes for the winter, should — if not already done — be potted in thumb pots. At this stage they enjoy a light, rich compost, to which some old mortar rubble should be added. For some time yet they should be grown in an intermediate tem- perature, standing the plants on a shelf well up to the roof glass Chrysanthemums. — Cuttings of the general run of decorative varieties should be secured with- out delay. They may be rooted in a slightly heated case, but this is not really necessary ; in fact, I prefer to root them under perfectly cool conditions, in a case in a cool house, or in shallow cold frames. When cold frames are employed, it is a good plan to use shallow boxes, placing a sprinkling of fine ashes at the bottom. The cutting pots should be stood in the boxes and then covered with panes of glass. This is an excellent method of propagating many plants when the ordinary facilities of proper propagating cases are not available. lANHARY 20 IQ2^. THE GARDEN. Tfou cant Dijf a Garden- with good intentions and a hairpin. There has to be some honest spade-work. You can do your digging and weeding with anybody, but you have your little weakness like the rest of 'em ! You like to look as though you'd done it. A little perspiration, and good honest dirt thick up to the elbow! Well, and why not? Just walk about a little where the neighbours can see you, and then— KIT. KIT soap will clear every atom of dirt, grease, oil, paint or tar out of your hand, and will do it nearly twice as quickly as anything else. It is a nice " spready " sort of soap, so you need only a little. The tin is blue and orange (the handy shape and the handy size), and the lid comes off just when you want it Keep a tin in the house for cleaning after "odd jobs." Price 6d. per Tin. is IT LEVER BROTHERS LIMITED, PORT SUNLIGHT. KT-3-3i & SON S BULBS Herbaceous Plants AND RO S ES For Spring, 1923. All of the Finest Quality. The Catalogue of above will be sent, post free, on application to their Offices at Overveen, Haarlem, HOLLAND. X9»fjl ft »'i!ll»»H»» 1fetf*/aM> i%»»%»»» %»««»«» • HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet by Owen Thomas, v.si.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country LrFK " Offices, 20. Tavistock Street, CoventJ.Garden, W.C.2. THE GARDEN. [January 20, 1923. Hibbertia dentata is a very charming evei climber for the cool greenhouse. It has a long flowering period during the winter and spring is propagated by means oi cuttings, and usually ipens plentj oi good seeds. Hibbertia Readii is a very different specii making .1 small compact plant suitable for pot culture, and in its season produces its -mall yellow flowers in wonderful profusion. Being a native of Australia it is, oi course, well suited for the cool reenhouse or conservatory. It is propagated by mean, oi cuttings oi hall ripened wood using small twiggy growths about 2ins. in length. 1 he cuttings hould be inserted in pots of sandy peat and stood under bell glasses in a cool pit. Lopezia miniata is a very charming spring- flowering plant for a cool house, producing its small rosy-red flowers very freely. It is easily propagated from cuttings and if pinched several times it makes compact bushy plants and may be -rown outdoors during the summer months. ?n Devon and Cornwall it is more or less hardy. Roses in Pots.— In most private gardens Roses in pots are not grown very successfully. This is not due to absence of skill in cultivation, but generallv, to lack of proper accommodation. It is usually difficult to grow Roses really well unless a house is devoted to them. Where such facilities do not exist, the dwarf Polyantha varieties can often successfullv be grown, and they are useful as thev last in flower for a long time in a cool greenhouse. Pot Roses usually do best it thev are established for a season in pots, but the' dwarf Polvantha varieties can be lifted from the open during October, potted up and stood in the open. Where this was done a batch ot plants may now be pruned and placed in a cool house. A" temperature of 55° is high enough to commence with, but as the plants start into o-rowth this may be increased to 60 and 65 during the dav. The house or section of the house where thev stand should be carefully ventilated, avoiding draughts, which are very apt to cause mildew. As a preventive or cure they should be spraved with liver of sulphur, using ^oz to a ^allo'n of water ; if 20Z. of soft soap are added to every three gallons of water it renders the mixture more adhesive. When the plants are in full growth they enjoy frequent applications of diluted liquid manure. Perpetual-flowering Carnations should be propagated, as good cuttings can be secured, and in theVdinarv way are best rooted in pots of light ^andv soil, standing the pots in a case in a cool house. Under cool conditions they take a little longer to root, but the resultant plants are generally more sturdv. Plants rooted during the autumn should be potted on as they require it. They succeed best in good medium loam, with little or no leaf soil, but sufficient clean coarse sand, or old mortar rubble added to keep the whole porous. Lime in some form is essential for Carnations, and the plants should be firmly potted. Plants coming on for flower should be disbudded and kept neatly staked and tied. J- Corns. Rnval Botanic Gardens, heir. Bluets.— The Houstonias or Bluets are remark- ably pretty little alpines, which, when in bloom are full of charm with their myriads of neat little flowers which quite smother the small leaves and adorn a plant only 3ins. or 4ms. high. A com- paratively small number exist and of these there are only some two or three species in commerce and the possession of one will probably be enough for most rock gardens. Not but what all are beautiful, but there is a considerable resemblance between them, and those who have Houstonia coei ulea need not long for another. It is certainly one of the best. It has been well described as a '■ little gem," for it is truly gem-like when in bloom. It tonus a small plant with delicate-looking tiny leaves and many little flowers of a delightful delicate -hade of greyish blue. There is also a te variety, which is scarce, but is not a bit beautiful than the blue one if, indeed as attrai til e. 1 h, othi ■ ■ asionally 0 are H. purpurea and H. serpyllifolia. The cultiva- tion of the Houstonias requires >ome consideration. They like a light, well drained soil, but must too dry at the roots. eE plentj -1 water in dry weather thc\ can leal of sun. but a somewhat shady place is desirable and a Hat ledge suits then. best. It i- desirable to gi ional soaking "i pure water now and again in dry weather in spring and summer, and this attention 1- well repaid by the greater health ot the plants. A very desirable point to consider is th a., to whether the plants should be allowed to form seeds or not. In garden practice it is very much better to cut off the blooms as soon as they are past, preferably when all but a very few have become with- red ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS FLOWER GARDEN. HOW TO ARRANGE AND PLANT A HERBACEOUS BORDER (M. s.). — The soil should be deeplj 'In, and the subsoil loosened with a garden fork. The plants must be put in far enough apart to allow of ample spaci 11 each clump to develop in later on without being over- crowded. Th.- naturally tall-growing kinds and varieties should be planted at the back, the medium neai the centre and the dwarfei ones at the front, but too much formality should be avoided. The following are suitable kinds to plant. The number of each should be obtained according to the space to be tilled. Delphiniums, Aconite, Echinops, blue ; Anemone japonica, Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, white; Anemone japonica rubra. Asters; rose; Lychnis chalcedonica, Tritoma, Phlox, crimson, Tritoma, Hclianthus, Kudbeckia, yellow ; Asters, Erigeron, Delphinium, purple. This.- for back part of bordi 1. Campanula. Centaurea montana, Scabiosa raucasica, blue; Achillea, Campanula. Lilies, white; Peonies, Pyrethrum, Phlox, pink; Gaillardia, Lychnis, Heuchera -m inn:!, erimson ; Coreopsis, Doronicum, Geum, Montbretia, yellow ; Iris, Pyrethrum, purple. Those are for the middle of the border. Anemone appenma, Gcntiana, Violas, blue; Pinks, Phlox, Achillea rupestris, Violas, white ; Lychnis viscaria, Pinks, Aubrietia Lcicht- lini.rose; Carnations. Pinks, crimson or scarlet ; Auricula, Primrose. Viola, Alyssum, yellow or orange; Aubrietia, Viola t been correct. NAME OF FRUIT.— H. II. Suffolk.— Apple Melon. The 'Wright' Seeds Sweet Peas.— Com. Godsall, Charity, Tangerine Imp. (10) Mr-. T. Jones (10), Hawlmaik Scarlet 'in. 10. President ... ting Edward, Spencer, Annie Ireland, Sirs. H. Sykes, Mrs. .1. '1'. Wakefield, .loan Ireland, John Ingman. Twilight. Daisybud, Alex. Malcolm, Hawlmark Lavendei .1" Hawlmaik pink'. Fierj en.--. R. F. Felton, Bercules, Royal Scott (10), Unwin's Lavender, Dnwin's Pink. Dobbie's Cream, Royal Purple, .11.. Unwin's Cream, Splend (10), Barbara, Feltons Warrior, con. Hinton, .Mr-. A. Hitchcock, Betty, Edna May Imp. (10), Picture (10), Kin, .Mauve. Flo, Wright Imp., Gloriosa (10,. Colne Valley (Hi). Conquest (10) Each Packet contains 15 .Seeds, unless otherwisi -tated. 3d. a Packet. Collections Buyer's Own Choice— Post Free. 0, distinct varieties, 1 4: 9 distinct, 2-: 1- distinct, 2 8; IS distinct, 4 - : ,4 distinct, 5 4. Intermediate Antirrhinums. — Bonfire. Crimson Kin-'. Daybreak, Defiance, Fire King, Golden Queen, Xelrose, White Queen, Choice Mixed. 3d. a packet; the set. 2 - ; any 6 -nit-, 1 4. Post Free. Tall Antirrhinums.— Brilliant, Firefly, Galathee, Luteum, Rose'Dore. White. Choice Mixed. 3d. a packet ; tin set 1 6. Post Free. Giant Comet Asters.— Dark Blue, Light Blue. Crimson, Rose, Ruby. White, Choice Mixed. 3d. a packet : the set 16. Post Free. Ostrich Plume Asters.— Dark Blue, Light Blue, Carmine, Crimson, Rose. White. Choice Mixed. 3d. a packet; the set 1 6. Post Free. Giant Perfection Stocks.— Appleblossom. Dark Blue, Light Blue. Rose. Scarlet. White. Choice Mixed. 3d. a packet ; the set 1 6. Post Free. All the above are choice, selected strains. CATALOGUES RECEIVED I i. iwicr. a;,d Vegetable Seeds. Messrs. Ban and Sons, 11-13, King street. Covent Garden, London. „ , , u . ,. k. p. Dixon and -.01 . Limited, in. VorkRhire - .1 Establishment, Hull. Messrs. Toogood and Sons, Limited, Southampton. M . . 1 vi, x. Dickson and So' -. Limited, "Hawlmark, Belfast. Mo-I- .1 C. Wl lor and Son, Limited, I ilnli-o-tor. n ,. .1. r. Pearson and Sons, Limited, Lowdham, Notts HORACE J. WRIGHT, F.R.H.S. WOOLPIT, SUFFOLK. is a sure preventive and should be used NOW, before the buds burst. 1 quart, 2 6; * gall.. 3/6; 1 gall., 6,'- ; 2 gall., 10 6: 5 gall., 25/-. Carriage extra. Dilution: l part to 16 soft water. GEO. BUNYARD & Co., Ltd., Royal Nurseries, MAIDSTONE. SPECIAL OFFER. FOREST TREE SEEDLINGS. Prices artixed at per 1.000. Prices reduced on 10 000 lots. Ash, common, 1 year. 5 6 : 2 year 8 -. Scotch Fir, 2 year. - . 3 year 12 -. Sycamore, 1 year. 10 - : -' >ear. 15 -. Norway Spruce, 2 year, 10 - Abies balsamia, 1 year 10 Oak, English, 1 year. 10 -. Pine, Austrian. ■> year, 12 -. TRANSPLANTED TREES AND SHRUBS. -tout and well rooted, li plants at the doz. rate. Berberis, in variety, to name, lot 10 - doz. : Box, ..tie,,,. •it 10/- doz Box, silver variegated, 2J-3ft., 12/- doz. , Box, coinpacta mtaor, lit., 12/- doz. ; Broom, conmon yellow. => it •) ■ doz ■ 3-Ift.. fi • doz. ; Broom, Moonlight, 1-ntt.. 10 - doz ' Broom, white Portugal. 2-Sft., ■• - doz.: Cornus sanguinea Red Dogwood, 2-3ft 3/- doz.; 5? mi; Juniper sabina, 11 -2ft., 8 -. doz .Hypericum calvcinum. :> - doz.; Olearia Haastn, 1-lUt.. B/- doz. . AMlea pontioa, sweet yellow, ll-2ft., 10 -doz. ; Hardy Heaths, S" doz.. 50 -100, over 40 varieties in stock Veronica Hectorii.U -doz.; Potentilla Friedrichsenn, 1-1 \n . .. -doz Lavender sweetblue 5 -doz.; Lavender, Grappenhall variety, hood?" cram- s d. z. Erica carnea. Potter's hybrids, flower,,,., r ,, .1 , , urv to May. 1 - each, 10 - doz. Queen of Spain, Winter . , , ;,.:,;■„ rubra, Thomas Kingscote, etc._ Dwarf Alpine Rnodooondrons,invariety,nJcestrongplants,, -doz.,O0 -100. SYDNEY SMITH, Tansley Old Nurseries, near MATLOCK. January 20, 192.',. 1 THE GARDEN. A PRODUCTIVE GARDEN ASSURED by using Wakeley's Patented Hop Manure. Read Free Booklet. DIPLOMA AND MEDAL AT THE ROYAL INTER- NATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION, 1912. celebrated' HOP MANURE ( PATENTED.) \* The Most Perfect *f \. Fertil,1er ^ Beware of imitations. Genuine Only in Our Marked Bags, Containing Guaranteed Analysis. SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMI- CALLY PREPARED in the form of a leaf- mould, read\ for use at any time, in the same way, and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes further (4 bushels equalizing 15 cwts.), gives better results, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. Cash PriCCS (including bags) : •^ ONLY ^ & RELIABLE % SUBSTITUTE r* FOR < ~ EVERY DRESSING OF WAKELEY'S HOP^MANURE enriches the soil with the Humus [it contains, doing lasting good, quite unlike the ordinary chemical manures, which act only as stimulants, and which, by constant use, impoverish it. Small (about 1 bushel), 3/- ; Large (about 4 bushels). 7/- ; 5 Large, 33/9 ; 10 Large, 65/-; 20 Large, 120/-. Carriage paid to any station within 25 miles oF London, including delivery within free delivery radius of Railway Company. 6d. per bag extra for every 50 miles or part beyond. A beautiful Free Booklet giving full particulars and testimonials sent on receipt of postcard. WAKELEY BROS. & CO., Ltd., 75a, Bankside, London, S.E.1 PLANTING SEASON. GEO. JAGKMAN & SON Woking Nurseries, SURREY {Established over a Century) Invite Inspection of their Large and Varied Stock of ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS, ROSES, CLIMBERS, FRUIT & FOREST TREES, HERBACEOUS & ALPINE PLANTS. 200 Acres of Stock to select from. Catalogues Free on application. Advice given on all matters appertaining to LANDSCAPE GARDENING and Estate Improvements. Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN Catalogue Free on application. C. EN GEL MANN, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. PLANT PESTS AND PARASITES.— A useful booklet on garden troubles by Horace J. Wright Is to be nbtalned from the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, r»vtstock Street, W.C.2 ; lid., post free. Clearance Sale of Surplus Plants. In order to make room for replanting, we are offering the following at reduced rates. All strong transplanted. Dozen. 100 Anchusa Opal - - - - -46 30 - Anemone japonica Honorine Joubert 3 - 35 - Aquilegia, mixed hybrids - - - 4 6 30/- Canterbury Bells - 26 16- Cheiranthus Allionii - - - 4 - 25 - Coreopsis grandiflora - - - 46 30- Forget-me-nots, Royal Blue - - 2/- 12/- Foxgloves _____ 2,6 16/- Honesty ------ 26 16 - Lupinus polyphyllus, new hybrids - 5 - 35 - Phloxes, linest named - 6 ■ 45 - Pinks, Mrs. Sinkins, extra fine - 4/- 25- Sweet Rocket ----- 3/- 20/- Sweet Williams, Fink & Scarlet Beauty 2/6 16 - Violets Giant, singles _ _ _ 3 _ 20/- Wallflowers, in variety - 1/- 5/- Orders of 10/- and over. Carriage Paid. Smaller orders 1/- extra. A great collection of Hardy Plants, Fruit Trees, Roses and Shrubs of all kinds in stock. Descriptive Catalogues Free. The BARNHAM NURSERIES, Ltd., BARNHAM, SUSSEX. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. Sundials, Bird Baths, Weather Vanes, &c. We are the Cheapest House in the Trade. S.-nrf for Illustrated List No. 16. COUNTRY HOMES SUPPLIES, 526, OXFORD STREET, W.1 (near Marble Arch). Under direction of Capt. G. CLARK, Founder and late Editor "Ideal Home." ~.» «y» «ri* «y» «y» *y# » l» m ti'^t •£* » j. *b* «r I* » 'i «y» fc .- «r£. «y« «y. ty. «y* ty. «y* »f. I Send NORTH and get THE BEST % Scotch Seed Potatoes „j. DIRECT fror, FORFARSHIRE FARMS "* are Unsurpassed for Crop and Quality, j^ 30 of the best and newest varieties are jj, described in our Spring List of Reliable X Vegetable and Flower Seeds for 1923. j[ Send a P.C. for a Post Free Copy. + If interested, also ask for a copy of our "• Nursery Catalogue of HARDY SCOTCH PLANTS 4* for Flower Borders and Rockeries ; ROSES, «! FRUIT TREES, etc. *i~ THYNE *TS0N,| Dept. G, DUNDEE. fa •*• •*? •*» **» •*» **» *fa •$? •*? *fa *fa *♦- ••* *♦* »♦_ »( j SITUATION WANTED. HEAD GARDENER requires situation. General experienee ; would market surplus produce it' would required. No exhibiting. — Apply t Uardens, Hatfield, Geo. Kent, Brocket vui. THE GARDEN. [January 20, 192^ I . MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a " Horse Shoe " with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours cf inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 38,000 Sold. Used in the R.H S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet E and quota tion post free. Reduced Prices. Assist Nature by using VICKERS' GARDEN FERTILISER It is used extensively by Gardeners. Horticulturists, and Allotment Holders, and always gives complete satisfaction. -CHEAPEST. BEST. AND MOST ECONOM1CAL.- GUARANTEED ANALYSIS A PERFECT PLANT FOOD FOR FRUIT, FLOWER, AND VEGETABLE GARDENS. Sold t-y the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble 18', Citric Soluble Nitrogen £*"".''£ Potash Amm ma (K^O) 4-85% 5% Equal to Sulphate of Potash (K2SOi) 9 25 Packed in Sealed Bags, 7lb. 2 ,-, I lib. 3 6, 28lb. 6/6, 56lb. 12/6, 1121b. 24/6 per Bag. If you ha\e any difficulty in obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS & SONS, Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, WIDNES, LANCS. Ch-PKii\i\ell«GLtd Southward St LONDON. S.E.I. AUCTION BY, PROTHEROE & MORRIS Every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY, of ROSES, AZALEAS & RHODODENDRONS, Herbaceous and Rock Plants, FRUIT TREES, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, BULBS, etc., At 67 & 68, Cheapside, London, E.C.2 Write for Catalogues. 'Phone : Bank 857. Largest Manufacturers of Flower Pots in the World. it it it THE BEST AND CHEAPEST. SPECIAL POTS for Roses, Vines, Clematis, Orchids, and Chrysanthemums. BENTLEYS Concentrated Alkali (WINTER WASH) A highly effective and most popular Winter Wash for fruit and forest trees of every kind. In tins sufficient to make 22 gallons of Wash. 1 to 5 tins, 3/- each ; 8 tins, 2/10 each ; 12 tins, 2/8 each ; 20 tins, 2/6 each ; 40 tins, 2/4 each. Carriage paid on orders of 15j- and up- wards to any station in Great Britain. Bentley's Weed Destroyers. Bentley's Fertilizers. Bentley's Insecticides. Bentley's Fungicides. General Horticultural Sundries. For Complete Illustrated Catalogue cpply to Sole Manufacturers : JOSEPH BENTLEY, Ltd. Chemical Works, BARROW - ON • HUMBER, HULL. Fancy Fern Pans Bulb Bowls, from 4d. each. and No Waiting 1 All Orders executed the same day as received. State quantity of each size required, and have Carriage Paid quotation, or write for Illustrated Price List. RICHARD SANKEY & SON, LTD., Foy.il Potteries, BULWELL, NOTTINGHAM. CELEBRATED MANURES m Unrivalled for all Garden Crops. The result of over 50 years' practical experience in gardening— still first for quality and results. Safe, Sure & Lasting. ASK year SEEDSMAN for "THOMSON'S."' Vine. Plant anil Vegetable Manure— A per- fect Food— 1-cwt. 3u/-. 56-lbs. 17/-, 28-lbs. 9/8, U-lbcS/6 7-lbs. 3/-, t ns 1/3 and 9d. Special Topdressing Manure— an excellent stimulant— 56-lbs. 17/-, 28-lbs. 9 », I-i-ibs. 5/6, 7-lbs. 3/-. tins 1/6. Carriage paiJ on 2S-lbs. and up. Write for our free booklet: Sole Makers :- WM. THOMSON & SONS. Ltd. Clovenfords, Scotland. COOPER'S WINTER(vi)FLUID Cleans and re-ln vigors tet the Fruit Tree* Kill* Mom, Lichen and other harmful growths Doe* not burn [ C«n vpric* 10,6) rr.,1... lOO (ill*, ol Sprir Miitur PR.CES: { ?Vi.Ma« '.B^nfaTS- .t'-Shfcf] WILLIAM CIOPEI S KCPHE.WS. Lid ES m THE DOG : MAN'S FIRMEST FRIEND.— How to choose and care for him, by A. Ceoxton Smth. A copy of tola helpful booklet on the housing, breeding, feeding and care of dogs will bo sent post free on receipt of lid., addressed to The Manager, " Countby Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. Corny's CONCENTRATED Winter Dressing (NON-POISONOUS) FOR Fruit AND OTHER Trees. For the destruction of all Insect Pests that shelter in the Bark during the Winter Months. This Preparation is highly valued by Practical Growers throughout the Kingdom. DIRECTIONS FOR USE ACCOMPANY EACH PACKAGE. SOLD BY THE TRADE GENERALLY. Prices— Pints, lj9\ Quarts, 31- : i Gall , 4 9 ; 1 Gall., 8/6; 2 Galls., 161- ; 3 Galls., 21,1-; 5 Galls., 321- ; 10 Galls., 56I-. Manufactured by C0RRY & Co., Ltd.. LONDON. SOIL PESTS (be same time. ALPHOL the Pest Killer v Soil Purifier enables you to grow plants to perfection. Used by 8o'{ uf Guernsey Tomato growers. Vi rite now for particulars f-% 1 C* ■ • ALL COC Garden Supplies r? sss» CRANMER STREET. LIVERPOOI LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. FOR POTTING PURPOSES USt WELLSON'S ORGANIC PLANT FOOD A Plant well fed requires no stimulant Samples and Prices from WELLSON & CO., Castle Works, Garden St., Leeds NOW READY. LAND DRAINAGE From FIELD to SEA. By C. H. J. CLAYTON, M.S.E., A.M.I. Mech.B. Chief Drainage Engineer to the Board of Agri- culture and Fisheries. Crown 8vo, Illustrated. 6/- net. By post 6/6 A full prospectus of this important work post free on application to the Manager. " Country Life," Ltd., •V) Tavistock Street. Covent Garden. W.C.2. Published by "Coontry Life," Lihitbd, at 20. Tavistock Street. Strand. W.C.2, and by Gbobob Newness LuarrED, 8-11. Southampton Street, Strand. W.C.2. Prirted by The Avekue Press. 55 & 57. Drury Lane. London. W.C.2. THE GARDEN ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2671. Knter.-d as Second-class Matter at the New York, N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, January 27, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription : Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign, 17/4 AUGUST BORDERS. MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN! FOR EXHIBITION! FOR BEDS ! FOR EVERYWHERE I Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists. SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. BARR'S TALL FLAG IRISES FOR PRESENT PLANTING Awarded R. H. S. Gold Medal at the Great Iris Conference, June 7th, 1922. 75/-, 100/- & .. 36'-, 48/- & .. 16/-, 24/- & 8/-, 12/- & 100 in ioo superb named varieties 50 ,, so 25 ,, 25 12 ,, 12 120/- 60/- 30/- 15/- per too, 45/- ; per doz., 81- Choice mixed varieties, without names BARR'S DWARF CRIMEAN IRISES Produce a wealth of rich colouring during March and April. 100 in 20 beautiful named varieties .. 42/- — — 12 „ 6 „ „ .... 6/- — Mixed, without names .. •• per ioo, 35/-; per doz., 6/- 11, 12 & 13, KING STREET, COVENT GARDEN. LONDON, W.C.2 THE WORLD'S BEST MANURE. BARR & SONS, 28 lbs., 9/-; 14 lbs., 5/-. "LE FRUITIER";,1 Prices: — 1 cwt., 30,'- ; J-cwt., 16/6 TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash. Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY,. 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloadi. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE NOTICE TO OUR READERS /~\N receipt of a Post Card the under- ^>^ mentioned Arms will be pleased to send their useful Catalogues free of charge. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD. MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEA8 AND FLOWERING SHRUBS PITTT-TRFRT ^or P'an*m9 an<* Conservatory R. & G. SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twerton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS 408, Kinc's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Book of Seeds now ready R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND H KING'S ACRE ROSES H noted for over a Century for 13 hardiness and reliability. L9 051 Useful alphabetically 13 arranged Catalogue of more 13 than usual interest, contain- 13 ing h elpf ul information, wit h 13 Special Collections for all 13 purposes. Free on request. 13 fijl Nurseries Established I 785. |G] El KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 (jl HEREFORD. 13 BllalsIalalslsIslsIalsIslstalalalslalS TUBS FOR SHRUBS. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak. etc. Highly decorative.— Price List from Pradal & Co.. 26, Goodge Street. London, W.l. Garden Sundries CORRY & CO., Ltd. Shad Thames, S.E.i and Bedford Chambfrs Covent Garden, W.C.2 Merchants and Manufacturers of Horticultural Sundries Fertilizers and Insecticides, etc. J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening J. CHEAL & SONS, Nurseries CRAWLEY Ltd. Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, i4,Victoria St. .London, s.w. i & 58 , Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts WHITELEGG & CHISLEHURST CO. write us Landscape and Qarden Archi- tects, specialise in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- ■itfned. Old Gardens Re-arranged. Plant- ing plans for borders, etc. Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates free. SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving full cultural directions at competitive prices. Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D.T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. Choice Chrysanthemums Our Novelty List for 1923 is now ready, also General Catalogue con- taining the very best varieties in each section, and selected Per- petual Flowering Carnations. Write to-day. Sent free from KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX, and at SAWBRIDQEWORTH, HERTS, ROBERT VEITGH & SON Specialize in : Hardy Trees and Shrubs, Choice and rare Plants, Magnolias, Camellias, Acacias, Fruit Trees, Roses, Nerines, Seeds, Bulbs. CATALOGUES FREE ON APPLICATION. Royal Nurseries, EXETER [January 27, 1923. DICKSONS HawlmarK BELFAST The Sweet Pea Specialists. I THE GARDEN COLLECTION 12 Var eties. 5/- GLADIOLI. EXCELLENT QUALITY AND MODERATE PRICES. Descriptive List of Gladioli, Liliuras. ISegonias. etr., post free on application. 100 Gladioli, in 10 distinct named varieties, 8 6 SO ,, .. 10 „ ,. „ . . 4/9 100 Gladioli, in the finest mixture, .. 6 '6 50 ,, „ „ „ ,, ..3 9 ALL Carriage Paid. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. WILLIAM HELPS, Bulb Merchant, 11, Beechfield Rd., London, N.4 The "SPALDING" Collection of SWEET PEAS. 15 BEST EXHIBITION VARIETIES, 12 Seeds each, price 4 -, post free. George Shawyer Annie Ireland Austin Frederick Constance Hinton Hawlmark Pink Majestic Cream GEORGE ELSOM, Charity Picture Gloriosa Sunset Warrior Jean 'Ireland Mrs. Tom Jones Royal Scot Koyal Purple Seed & Bulb Grower, SPALDING SPECIALITE. PLANT NOW SPRING FLOWERING TREES AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) N. Gauntlett & Co, Ltd., Japanese Nurseries. Chiddikgpold, Furrev. The Shelley Antirrhinums THIRTY VARIETIES, including: Cerise King. A.M., R.H S., 4d.: Pink Beauty, 4d. : Orange Beauty, 4d. ; Rosebud, 4d ; Black Prince. 3d. ; Bonny Lass. A.M., R.H.S. , 4d.f Golden Gem, A.M., R.H.S , 4a.; Maize Queen, A.M., R.H.S.. 3d.; Silver Queen, 6d. ; Purity, 6d., &c. Also SWEET PEAS and GARDEN SEEDS. T. H. DIPNALl, F.R.H.S., Sh.lley, Hadleigh, Suffolk. PAUSE TO CONSIDER THIS SPECIAL OFFER OF CHOICE ALPINES. Then order for Spring delivery tin' following plants from pots': — SAXIFRAQA IRVINQII, the best pink Kabshia. ONOSMA ALBO-ROSEA, rosy white. SAXIFRAQA KELLERII, early pink anil white spikes. 6 inches. primula INTEQRIFOLIA, collected plants; a fine ranee of colours — pale to darker pink and mauve. LITHOSPERMUM ROSEMARIN IFOLIUM, a charming bine, l toot high. RANUNCULUS QLACIALIS, 9 inch ; collected plants, but established. DIANTHUS ALPINUS. SAXIFRAQA BURSERIANA SULPHUREA, pale primrose, very free. ramondia pyreniaca, toi shady places, mauve. CAMPANULA WALDSTEINIANA, deep mauve, 4 inches high. QENTIANA FARRERI, ., gem tor inurrninc ; pale blur : from China. erytheria MASSONll (the pink Gentian); soft pink, :! inches. Carriage paid, for cash with order, for 17 6. GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT. January 27, 1923.] E GARDEN. ^ifcl# -j—^ WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Bare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees (300,000), Alpines In pots, Perennial Irises (250.000).— John Waterer, Sons * Crisp, Ltd., Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks : and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. viii. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15. — Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, eheetnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex.— Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli, THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli should be ready about January 20. Send for particulars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. TURF FROM OLD PARK LAND FOR SALE. Quantities of 1 acre and upwards, £30 per acre. Buyer to cut and cart. — Leesons Farm, Chislehurst. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York'Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway Btation in England. — Hodson and SON, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells & Co., Merstham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection Invited. Price list post free on application. — Thos. Rivers TET. List now ready, with samples, post free. Gasson & Sons, Net Works, Rye. Est. over 100 years. BARRS' SEED GUIDE, now ready, free. For a Select List of the best Vegetable and Flower Seeds of finest Selected Strains and Tested Growth. At the R.H.S. Wisley Trials our Strains of Vegetable Seeds have received exceptional recognition for high quality, many having been Highly Commended and several given First-class Certificates and Awards of Merit. — Barr & Sons, 11, 12 & 13, KingStreet, Covent Garden, London, W.C.2. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations Is now ready to plant. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorious scent. They flourish grandly in any part of Great Britain. Catalogues. — James Douglas, Border Carnation Specialist, Great Bookham. JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91 . CONTENTS White Flowers for the Border Water and Bog Gardening — /. The Genus Cotoneaster {concluded) The Nicotianas Russet Apples Fruit and Flowers at Vincent Square New and Rare Plants and Fruit Ventilation : Its Use and Abuse Notes of the Week The R.H.S. Hall ; Wisley Trials ; The Hardy Plant Society; Dianthus callizonus. Correspondence Strawberries and Asparagus ; The Golden Scots Pine ; Decorative Shrub Sprays ; Cordyline australis ; The White Martagon Lily ; Campanula haylodgensis ; Rhodo- dendron Nobleanum ; Garrya elliptica ; Saxifraga Mira ; Thalictrum adiantifo- lium and its Hardiness ; Early Strawberry Runners ; For Indoor Decoration ; The Astilbes ; Narcissus Notes. The Award of Garden Merit Seaweed as a Fertiliser Gardening of the Week Answers to Correspondents ILLUSTRATIONS Artemisia lactiflora Camellia Jupiter Cordyline australis in Flower and in Fruit Cotoneaster salicifolia rugosa C. Simonsii Cyclamen persicum Firefly Dianthus callizonus Garrya elliptica at Christmastide Hyacinths, Blue, from Prepared Bulbs Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora Lilium candidum Nicotiana alata Phloxes, a Group of Water Garden, A PAGE 39 4i 42 43 43 44 45 45 46 47 49 49 30 5° 40 44 47 42 42 45 46 48 44 40 39 43 40 4i ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free. Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 16, Morden Rd., Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a perfect fertiliser; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wlrework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists.— Boutton and Paul, Limited, Norwich. SUTTON'S VEGETABLE SEEDS. By constant selection and re-selection, year by year, our choice strains are maintained at the highest standard of excellence. Our speciality for the week : — CUCUMBER, SUTTON'S EVERY-DAY. Sets freely at all seasons. Splendid cropper, good length, flist- rate flavour. Per packet, 2/6 and 3/6. SUTTON & SONS, THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, READING. NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S LOVELY PEONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupines, Gaillardlas, Phloxes, Pseonies, etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Roses now ready. — Write for descriptive Catalogues to Kelway AND Son, The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. D0BBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogue and Guide to Gardening, free, if this paper is mentioned. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS.— New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies. — (Dept. E), R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN. DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free.— Moorton, 65, Pearl Road, Waltnamstow. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior flower it is one of the most showy species, with corymbs of white blossoms, followed by quantities of, small, bright red fruits. The variety floccosa, introduced from Western China by Mr. Wilson in 1908, has grey or silky white under surface of the leaf. The variety rugosa, as the name suggests, has rather larger and coarser leaves than the type. This also was first introduced by Mr. Wilson from China. He collected seeds in W. Hupeh in 1907. This group of Cotoneasters is said to grow up to- 10ft. or 12ft. high. C. Simonsii. — In mild winters this Cotoneaster retains many of its leaves until Christmas, though one would scarcely be correct in calling it a sub- evergreen. It grows up to 8ft. or loft, high and is an excellent shrub for massing and invariably berries freely, these being scarlet, Jin. to Jin. in diameter. It is a native of the Khasia Mountains. Several sprays of this Cotoneaster were staged at a recent meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society under the name of C. " Simmondsii," obviously a. wrong spelling as the plant is named in compliment to a Mr. Simons who collected many herbarium specimens in the Khasia Mountains. C. turbinata. — This is a vigorous evergreen Cotoneaster which came to us from China via France in 1910. Already we have a beautiful lawn specimen 10ft. high. The leaves are dark January 27, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 43 dull green, the under surface being clothed with grey-white felt. The feature of this species is the flowering season, late July, when the white blossoms are freely borne in corymbs lin. to jins. or 2 tins, across. The fruits are dark red, about Jin. long. A. O. THE NICOTIANAS THE common very fragrant " Tobacco Plant," Nicotiana alata (" affinis " of gardens), has by its beauty and perfume occupied such a stronghold in our gardens that we are very much disposed to pass over all other kinds, save perhaps the red Tobacco, N. Sanderiana. So far as floral display is concerned, there is but little room for question that these two are the very best ; but neglect of other species is regrettable, for there is much that is beautiful, much that is interesting, and much that is unusual left outside. Some years ago an examination of the list of names in a seed catalogue stimulated my curiosity, and I experimented rather extensively among the unknown, so that at the end of May I found myself with a number of boxes of healthy seedlings ready to plant out. Then came the question, Should they be used in groups, disposed among the beds and borders, or should they occupy all by themselves a small piece of border that had not been planned ? Decision was reached ; the latter course was favoured, and so up grew my little Tobacco border, representing over half a dozen kinds and ranging in height from 2ft. to 6ft. I would that words could paint it more realistically. That readers could see the growing plants in the evening light of a summer's day and inhale the powerful perfume as it combined with a little foreign-grown " weed " as it slowly charred to white ash burned in the pipe. That border was an entire success, and never failed to call forth exclamations of " I had no idea there were so many kinds." A few words must be said upon the method of raising from seed, for, to obtain the best results, particular points must be noted. It is a mistake to sow too early. It is easy to get Tobacco plants too forward, and if they once begin to spindle up into a flower-stem before they are planted out, they will never give first-class results. Seedlings do not grow rapidly in the earliest stage ; but, once a certain period of development has been passed, this is changed and small plants speedily become larger. From the second to the third week in March is a good time to sow, while a temperature averaging 55° is about right, and this will give sturdy little plants in sufficient time to permit of their spending a good while in cold frames to harden off before planting out. Sow the seed thinly in shallow pans, being cartful not to overcrowd, for if an excess of water should at any time be given, crowded seedlings go down by " damping off " like wildfire. Use light soil, cover sparingly with this, keep just moist and in an even temperature, and there will soon be a plentiful crop of seedlings waiting to be pricked off. Boxes will do quite well for the pricking off, though it pays to give each plant a small pot to itself. This latter was the plan I followed with my border, but more space is required and, of course, the labour of watering is increased. Keep watch upon the condition of the plants all the while, but particularly as the spring advances, so that they are timed (by careful regulation of temperature, air, etc.) to become close, sturdy little rosettes of foliage without a hint of flower- stem pushing by late May. Just here I would most strongly advocate another most important point in culture — early planting. The Tobacco is, we know, half-hardy, but far hardier than is generally supposed, and with a warm, sheltered position in which to plant and thorough hardening off and in not too bleak a garden, it may safely be trusted in the open ground any time after the middle of May has passed. Indeed, I have proved over and over again that it is those earliest planted which do best. Frost, of course, will kill the plants if at all severe, but bar that (and it is generally easy to provide temporary protection if requisite), early planting always scores. Rich, well manured soil is appreciated, and although heavy shade is detrimental, partial shade is not harmful. Now, having procured our stock of young plants — which, by the way, look singularly alike at this stage — let us take a glimpse into the future. RUSSET APPLES THESE should be more generally grown. They are, as a rule, free croppers and of fine flavour. Although the fruits are not so showy as those of many varieties very generally grown, the flavour of most of the Russets is really good. The trees bear when quite small, are fertile, and the matured fruits keep sound for a long time. The fruits of some varieties shrivel with age. They are, however, more appreciated by many lovers of Apples when this shrivelling has taken place. Personally, I much preferred some of the small Russet varieties found in old orchards and cottage gardens nearly forty years ago to some of those of more recent introduction. I well remember their great cropping and keep- ing qualities. The following are a few of the best russeted varieties. This is a good time to plant. Aromatic Russet. — In season December to February. Flesh firm ; not a large fruit, THE FRAGRANT WHITE TOBACCO, NICOTIANA ALATA. Grouped at the back in bold masses are N. glauca, a species with curiously blue-green foliage and pink flowers ; N. Tabacum virginicum, the Common Tobacco, 4ft. high, with rosy purple flowers ; and N. sylvestris, a most uncommon species of similar height. The latter makes immense leaves and a stout central stem, bearing at the apex a large number of long, drooping, tubular flowers that remain open all day. This is splendidly effective and, if one has a large bed upon the lawn which it is desired to fill with a very bold and imposing plant, one can scarcely do better. In front of these are N. alata — lavishly used — filling the air with an almost overpowering volume of fragrance and at evening a sight worth walking far to see. At the opposite end is a corresponding patch of N. Sanderiana in vivid carmine. At the centre of this forward grouping, and stretching well to the front, an immense foliage plant is prominent, N. gigantea. This is a majestic plant indeed, 4ft. high with handsome crimson flowers. Use the Tobacco plants how one will, as an entire small border or planted in groups in border and bed, they are always effective. C. but of rich flavour. This is one of the oldest sorts. Boston Russet. — In season from January to end of May. Very richly flavoured, suitable for dessert or cooking. Brownlee's Russet — In season from Christmas to end of April. A dessert variety of medium size, sweet flavour and very fertile. Egremont Russet — In season from October to December. This is one of the most attractive of the Russets. Rich yellow with deep russet markings, crisp, highly flavoured, fertile and of good habit. St. Edmund's Russet — In season from Septem- ber to November. Dessert, medium size, a golden russet, free fruiting and richly flavoured. Syke House Russet — In season from December to March. This is a small variety, but a very valuable dessert Apple. It will be seen that these Apples cover a season from the end of September to the month of May. Usually the trees are not over-robust and will repay really good treatment. George Garner. 44 THE GARDEN. [January 27, 1923. FRUIT AND FLOWERS AT VINCENT SQUARE THE brightness of the exhibits at Vincent Square on January 16, when the firs! R.H.S. meeting of the year was held, augurs well for a successful season. Frequently the early shows are " thin " and uninteresting, but on this occasion, although the hall was not filled, there were sufficient exhibits of Orchids, Carnations, spring bulbs and other flowers to make a very attractive Show. Nor was the colour and attraction confined to the floral exhibits. There were two gold medal exhibits of Apples and Pears of most delightful and high quality: while in the collection of vegetables by Messrs. Sutton and Sons the centre of variegated Kale had considerable beauty of form and colouring. The other and less showy vegetables were also of that high quality associated with the Reading firm. The Royal Favourite Leeks, Tender and True Parsnips, Onions, Beet and Carrots were all of the best exhibition standard ; while for those who prefer more uncommon vegetables there were the Vegetable Whitebait (Stachys tuberifera), Pink Fir and Congo Potatoes, of value for saladings, and unusually fine roots of Salsify. While the two fruit exhibits were quite distinct in their styles, both consisted of Apples in very- many dishes and a few of Pears of such great merit as fully to justify the high award they received. As ever, Messrs. G. Bunyard and Co. displayed great taste and skill in arrangement. Many of their Apples were beautifully coloured, but it was those of such rich golden colour as Norfolk Beauty, Waltham Abbey Seedling, Golden Jubilee, Golden Noble and Golden Spire that first took the eye Then one realised by contrast the brilliance nt many other sorts, particularly Worcester Pearmain and Wealthy. The dishes of such Pears as Catillac, Josephine de Malines, Buerre Perran and Double de Guerre were of remarkable quality. The collection set up by Mr. J. C. Allgrove seemed to rely solely upon its high quality and here the dishes of Apples — Spitzbergen, Cox's Orange Pippin, Scarlet Pearmain, Wealthy, William Crump, Seedling A, a most handsome dessert variety — and the quantity of magnificent fruits of S. T. Wright were all as near perfection as possible. The Pears included Uvedale's St. Germain, Easter Beurre and Santa Claus. The last named is a high-flavoured Pear of medium size that is still in season and continues good for a longer period than the gener- ality of Pears. Carnations have been on view at the shows and in the shops so long and so regularly that one is inclined to take them for granted and not to appreciate the great advance that has been made of late years in their cultivation during the winter months. This is, none the less, true, and such a gorgeous vase as that of Edward Allwood in the collection of Messrs. Allwood Brothers was not possible only a few years ago. This firm also had very attractive stands of Wivelsfield Fancy, Wivelsfield Claret and Triumph. Their Allwoodii seem to be of ever-blooming character, for they were able to make quite a nice show with them. Great as has^ been the advance in brightly coloured Carnations, it is ever more apparent in those of yellow colour and these were very prominent in the collection of Mr. C. Engelmann, who had very good vases of Saffron, Jessie Allwood, Marion Willson and Maine Sunshine. In sending such a large collection of Carnation blooms from his gardens to this first show of the year, the President of the R.H.S. gave a valuable lead to other amateurs who, it is hoped will follow Lord Larabourne'-; example and share their plants and flowers in this way. Their new pink varieties, Mrs. T. Ives and Eileen Low, were prominently displayed by Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., who also shewed winter- flowering Begonias, Azaleas and Mimosas. Among the last named was a plant of Acacia Baileyana which is fast superseding the longer leaved A. dealbata in the shops, and on the itinerant vendor's barrows. Besides being equally as beautiful in flower, Acacia Baileyana is hardier, flowers when quite small and its shorter, silvery leaves do not flag when the sprays are cut. Other greenhouse flowers included particularly- good Cyclamens by Messrs. Blackmore and Langdon, who, besides large batches of splendidly grown plants of Salmon King, Giant White and Giant Crimson, had a new variety some- what similar to Sutton's Firefly which received an award, and the similarity was continued in the name, which is Fireball. This is apparently a larger-flowered sort than Firefly, but there seems to be a shade more blue in the colouring. Spring flowers, even thus early in the year, were prominently displayed. Messrs. Sutton and Sons had a large collection of Hyacinths of enviable quality. These were mostly from " prepared " bulbs, which undergo a special treatment in order that really good spikes of Hyacinths may be forced into bloom by Christmas with quite reasonable BLUE HYACINTHS IN MESSRS. SUTTON'S EXHIBIT. THE ADMIRABLE SALMONY ROSE CAMELLIA JUPITER. January 27, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 45 certainty. These were shewn as large baskets in all colours. The bowls of the rich yellow Tulip Mon Tresor contrasted well with the deep blue of Iris reticulata. Besides Hyacinths Messrs. R. and G. Cuthbert, had good pots of Freesia refracta alba and white Christmas Roses. .Many Polyanthuses, double shewn is a vivid vinous ruby-red but we have seen it at Reading when the hint of blue noticeable on this occasion was entirely absent, and while all the leaves were lightly mottled, those on one plant were as distinct as Silver-leaved Salmon. The plants were very floriferous. Award of merit to Messrs. Sutton and Sons. VIVID VINOUS RUBY-RED " — CYCLAMEN FIREFLY. Daisies and the graceful little blue Anchusa inyosotidiflora were shewn by Mr. G. W. Miller, while at the end of the hall Messrs. Chaplin Brothers of Rose fame, who have absorbed Paul's of Waltham Cross, shewed some floriferous little Camellia bushes. Such single sorts as the bright salmon-rose Jupiter and the white Novelty were especially delightful. Chief among the few alpine flowers were the little patches of the dainty hardy Cyclamens in the exhibits of Messrs. Waterer, Sons and Crisp, and Mr. G. Reuthe, while Messrs. Wallace and Co. had a number of pans of the interesting and beautiful Crocus species — C. triflorus, C. Imperati and C. Sieberi are the names of only a few of these fascinat- ing flowers. They also had sprays of several species of Hamamelis wreathed with flowers. In their rockery Messrs. W. Cutbush and Sons placed a bush of Garrya elliptica which bore plenty of its curious catkins, while Mr. G. G. Whitelegg had a collection of dwarf conifers eminently suitable for planting in rock gardens, as well as interesting and lifelike hand paintings of Bearded and Japanese Irises. Mr. Percy Cane's garden design photographs are a standing, but none the less interesting, feature of the winter shows. The plans and views exhibited are continually changing. On this occasion interest was largely focussed upon a number of excellent designs for town gardens. Brasso-Cattleya British Queen. — A magnificent bloom of large size and perfect form. The sepals are of rosy mauve colouring, the large lip is of darker shade in front and it has a pale yellow centre. Award of merit to Mr. Pantia Ralli. Cymbidium Curlew var. Feather. — This beau- tiful variety is considered to be the best of the Butterfly and Alexanders crosses. The plant bore a large spike of pure white flowers which have faint mauve lines and rich ruby-red spotting on the Up. Award of merit to Sir George Holford. Cymbidium Doreen. — The experts were of the opinion that this is the best dark Cymbidium in cultivation. The tall spike bore seven large blooms of deep bronzy-purple colouring, relieved by rich golden yellow on the margins and occasionally in the body of the flowers. Award of merit to Messrs. J. and A. McBean. NEW FRUIT. Apple Ball's Pippin. — The award to this late dessert Apple was conditional on the sub-committee being satisfied with the tree and its qualities when they inspect it during the coming season. The fruit is of Rival shape and the green skin is occasionally flushed with red. The flesh is white and was said to be sweet and of good flavour. It is a cross between Cox's Orange and Stunner Pippin. Award of merit to Mr. J. C. Allgrove. NEW AND RARE PLANTS. Cyclamen persicum Firefly. — The half a dozen or so plants of this new greenhouse Cyclamen in a round basket made a delightful patch of vivid colouring and the novelty is all the more welcome in that the flowers possess the added charm of the true Cyclamen form and do not flop about as do so many of the giant hybrids. The colour as FORTHCOMING EVENTS. January 29. — British Florists' Federation Annual Meeting and Dinner to be held at the Connaught Rooms, Great Queen Street, W.C.2. Annual Meeting at 3.30 p.m. Dinner at 6.15 p.m. January 30. — Royal Horticultural Society's Fortnightly Meeting. National Hardy Plant Society's Annual General Meeting at the R.H.S Hall at 2 p.ms VENTILATION: ITS USE AND ABUSE GIVING ventilation to glasshouses is a science not easily mastered. It is difficult to teach, very difficult to learn and it is made more difficult by many unnecessary operations. A head gardener may give his young men the most minute instructions as to how to act and yet in some emergencies he may find that he, with all his experience, cannot act in the same way as he has instructed his pupils. When there is continued sunshine or continued dull weather, continued cold or continued heat, the matter is simple enough, but the unexpected so frequently happens that the most experienced may not know what to do from one minute to another. These emer- gencies test the skill of the cultivator and make all the difference between success and failure. Of course, everybody has failures whether he is skilled or not. The man who says he has no failures never reaches the top of the ladder. The one who would excel must be bold and run some risks, but one of the first lessons to learn is to know why we practise certain details. Some of our forefathers did wonders with the means at their command, but we must not be content to follow them blindly now that conditions are very much better. Our houses are better, especially in regard to light and heating appliances, and thanks to scientists, our knowledge of plant life and plant feeding, and the effects of light is, or ought to be, much better than that of our predecessors. Why do we give ventilation to our glasshouses ? Certainly not for the same reason as we give it to a dwelling house, excepting so far as it is done to prevent the temperature rising too high. To sustain animal life it is necessary to have a certain amount of oxygen and a minimum amount of carbon dioxide. For vegetable life the reverse of this is required. Our plants would revel in a much higher percentage of carbon dioxide than they obtain in the ordinary way. Some scientists tell us that they flourish in an atmosphere con- taining 2 per cent, of this gas, and our ordinary atmosphere contains less than one part in three thousand. Then what is the use of leaving ventilation all night on a house where the fruit is in full growth and the plants are not inhaling carbon dioxide, but giving it off in the act of respiration. Our predecessors had a reason for leaving a chink of air on, to allow the sulphur fumes from their flues to escape. The flues are gone, but the practice still lingers. It may suit the sluggard, but not the genuine gardener. Early ventilation on a bright morning is very important, and the lower the night temperature of the house, the more important is this timely attention. There may have been a shade tem- peralure of 90 degrees on the previous evening and the amount of moisture contained in the atmosphere with this temperature is very con- siderable. As the temperature lowers the capacity of the atmosphere for holding the moisture in suspension lessens and much of it is deposited on the leaves and fruit, which lose heat faster than the atmosphere does, and just as the sun's rays are about to reach the house this deposit is at its maximum. The ordinary cultivator follows the rule laid down by many calendar writers and waits till a certain temperature is reached before giving air, the temperature being, in his opinion, the thing of greatest importance. The skilful cultivator knows better. He would rather give ventilation a little too early than five minutes too late. The effects of tardy ventilation are plainly seen on white grapes, for these, during the 46 THE GARDEN. [January 27, 1923. first week or ten days after the flowers commem e opening, are liable to what is called rust, though it is not visible till a later stage. Black varieties may be just as badly affected, but it is not so apparent to the naked eye. A high night tem- perature will prevent this happening, but it will not be good for the fruit, nor for those who have to pay for the fuel. Well, if this happens to the < 1 rapes, which shew the effects, can it be supposed that it is harmless to other plant life ? In giving ventilation at any time, do not lower the tem- perature by giving it — always anticipate the rising. Supposing the outdoor temperature is down to freezing point and that of your house, owing to an unexpected change in the weather during the night or early morning is down to 45°, when it ought to be 10° higher. Before the sun's rays actually reach the house the temperature will commence to rise and when they actually reach it the rise will be rapid. If a little ventilation is given the temperature will not rise so rapidly and it should be remembered that the greater the difference between internal and external tempera- tures, the greater will be the velocity of exit. When there is a difference of only 150, it will not be nearly so rapid as when there is a difference of 200, through the same aperture. Now, if it was only the heat which escaped the effects would not be so disastrous, but, unfortu- nately, it carries with it much of the moisture which makes the atmosphere genial. Therefore, if you allow the internal temperature to rise to a con- siderable extent before opening the ventilator, you bring about such a rapid exit that it will have a similar effect to what one would feel when emerging from a warm bath into a draughty passage, in fact, it brings about a chill, though gardeners are wont to call it by another name. If a practical and sensitive cultivator enters a house at 10 o'clock on a bright spring morning, he can generally tell by the feel of the atmosphere whether the ventila- tion has been skilfully managed, for even after there has been a considerable amount of damping down, the harshness produced by tardy ventilation is evident for some hours. I wish to impress on readers that the ill effects to which I have alluded are not often produced by a reasonably high temperature, but by a sudden change of atmospheric conditions. On a change- able windy day in March one may see young men running from one house to another altering the ventilation for every passing cloud or glimpse of sunshine. This does more harm than good. I very seldom give any ventilation to Vines which are not being forced, before April, and sometimes not till the middle of that month. A range of temperature from 450 to 900 by sun heat will seldom do any harm to Vines up to the stoning stage if ventilation is not insisted on. \\M. Taylor. NOTES OF THE WEEK THE first Fortnightly Meeting of the year at the Royal Horticultural Hall was a surprisingly good one both from the point of view of the exhibits and from that of attendance. During the afternoon the hall was, indeed, quite as full as it should ever be if visitors are really to see the exhibits. If the hall can be thus filled at this dead season of the year, it will no doubt be more overcrowded than ever during the coming summer when, to make space for more exhibits, the gangways will be narrower. More Space ? — From the beginning of March till the end of June all the shows at the Vincent Square hall will be two-day events, which is calculated to some extent to relieve the congestion. This relief, however, is very partial, for many flowers can only be seen satisfactorily upon the opening day. The trade, too, object to the two-day meetings as absorbing valuable time and increasing the expense of exhibiting without any corresponding increase of business. There is a disposition in some quarters to ignore the convenience of the trade in this, as in other matters, but it should be kept steadily in mind that without the support of the trade it would be impossible to hold these shows at all. What is really needed is more space. Although no doubt it will be possible to make shift with the present hall for another season or two, the Council has to face the fact that these shows are rapidly outgrowing the accommodation provided for them. There seems, unfortunately, no possibility of extension on the present site, though for some years there was a plot of vacant land adjoining one side of the hall. Sooner or later the question of a new building will have to be faced and the sooner it receives, at any rate, preliminary con- sideration the better. Wisley Trials. — The Royal Horticultural Society has a large and still growing membership and ■ handles each year a very considerable income, but its outgoings are also on a large scale, so that if anything worth while is to be put aside towards providing fresh and larger accommodation, it would be well to pass the various items of expendi- ture under review previously to a vigorous use of the pruning knife. A very considerable portion of the expenses of the Wisley Gardens must be absorbed by the annual trials of various kinds of flowers, fruits and vegetables. It appears to be the general opinion of Fellows of the Society that these trials represent little more than a clear, sheer waste of money. These trials could, at best, only decide what varieties suit the rather unusual soil of this particular garden. Actually they are in fact quite unrepresentative, since many of the most important firms conduct trials of their own and. rightly or wrongly, refuse to support those at Wisley. We are confident that if a plebiscite of Fellows of the Society were taken the Council would be surprised at the small amount of support these trials would receive. Leaving the question of a larger hall quite aside, more money might, with advantage, be spent upon other and more interesting features at Wisley than the trials. To be perfectly frank, there is very little at Wisley at any season of the year that a Fellow would be likely to take his gardener to see. Indeed, beyond the very pleasing laboratory building, there is very little for anyone to see there. Certainly the gardens are far less interesting now than in the earlier war years. At the forthcoming general meeting Fellows might do worse than to ventilate this question of the trials and the Council's policy with regard to Wisley. The Hardy Plant Society. — We hear from the Secretary that considerable interest is being taken in the re-organisation of the Society. If really- effective work is to be done a largely increased membership is imperative. There must be, thou- sands of keen amateur gardeners whose en- thusiasm is mainly directed to the culture of hardy plants. Every one should join the Society and, if possible, join it before the Annual Meeting on 30th instant. Subscriptions should be sent to the Hon. Secretary, Dactylis, Caversham Road, Reading. An Alpine Pink. — Farrcr described the subject of our picture, Dianthus callizonus, as " far beyond competition, incomparably the loveliest of Aipir.e Pinks," and few who have seen it well established will be inclined to dispute his judg- ment. The plant is stoloniferous and, when happy, quickly forms patches of considerable size. The flowers are bright pink in colour — pink with a touch of salmon. It is, par excellence, a plant for the limestone moraine. THE BRILLIANT ALPINE PINK, DIANTHUS CALLIZONUS. January 27, 1923 ] THE GARDEN. 47 CORRESPONDENCE STRAWBERRIES AND ASPARAGUS. PERHAPS I should make it clear to Mr. W. H. Lodge and other readers that my note on Strawberries was not meant to apply to com- mercial growers of large acreage for the fruit. For amateurs I hold to what I wrote, and Mr. Lodge seems to agree. But beyond this I cannot see why commercial growers for sale of plants should not adopt the maiden plant system. It takes little time to nip out the flower-trusses and the loss of fruit hardly matters. I cannot help demurring to Mr. Lodge's assertion that " runners of practically equal excellence and earliness can be secured from one year old plants, as has been proved time after time by skilled cultivators.' My own experience of some forty- five years on different soils says " no," and I can only ask readers to try both methods and report results. The garden is small that cannot afford room for twenty-five maiden plants to give 100 runners. Squares of turf are in some respects better than pots, but firm turf is not always to hand, and pots can be more easily moved to hard ground and kept a few days in case of forced delay of planting out. As to Asparagus, I think Mr. Lodge will own, on consideration, that his com- parison with Narcissus bulbs is not quite logical. If a variety of Narcissus would come true from seed (which it won't), I could get a much speedier increase and probably healthier plants by gathering the seed from a batch of plants and sowing it. As things are, the plant's nature obliges me to lift, divide and replant. Asparagus, on the other hand, comes practically true from seed, and hardly any plant dislikes disturbance more obviously. Why then, unless you are in a desperate hurry for a year, go to the considerable pains and expense of transplanting? — G. H. Engleheart. THE GOLDEN SCOTS PINE. T WAS glad to read (page 25) Mr. Clarence Elliott's appreciation of this delightful little Pine. It deserves all his praise. Oddly enough, if he got his golden Thyme from Mr. E. Charles Buxton, it was the latter who introduced me to Pinus sylvestris aurea, a fine specimen of which has been growing for many years in the famous Bettws-y-Coed garden. The colour of this dwarf Pine is really remarkable, especially in mid- winter, and when the needles are wet with rain they gleam like polished glass. Our specimen is exactly 30ms. high and about 24ms. through at its widest part, which is near the ground. It is a very slow grower, as Mr. Elliott says, the above plant not making 2ins. a year. It, of course, looks best with some green background. Our bantling has, besides turf for company, a common but dwarf Juniper from the Scottish hills on one side of it, while spreading about some lichened rocks over which the Pine presides is a mat of Juniperus prostrata. — A. T. Johnson, North Wales. DECORATIVE SHRUB SPRAYS. YA/HILE agreeing with Mrs. Barron (see page 23 of The Garden, January 13) as to the useful- ness of shrub sprays for house decoration, I am very doubtful as to their superseding flowers for this purpose. No doubt there is a certain appeal about a nicely arranged large vase of some of our choice berried shrubs, but I am afraid the great majority would vote for " the enormous and costly Chrysanthemums and Carnations," which, considering their lasting qualities, are not so very costly. Here, in Carlisle, sprays of berried shrubs are offered for sale- in the flower market every week during winter, and only a very limited quantity of these find purchasers. The past year has been one of the best on record for fruitful- ness of shrubs of all kinds, and many wonder- ful pictures were to be seen almost everywhere of trees and shrubs literally covered with beautiful berries. One feels that it is thus that the great charm of berried shrubs is best appreciated. Not when the sprays are cut and artificially arranged in a jar or vase. — Albyx. THE CORDYL1NE AUSTRALIS. TOURING the past sum- mer this Dracaena has flowered freely in many parts of the country where the conditions are mild enough to allow of its being grown. Beautiful as the large flower - spike is grow- ing out of the massive head of yucca-like foliage, it is usually so high up on the plant that a close examination of the flower is impossible. It may not be generally known that if the flower- spike is cut and placed in water it will last for many weeks; its thousands of tiny cream- coloured flowers, sweetly scented, remain fresh for a long time. The seed in December is quite as beautiful as the flower in June. The berries are pure white, about the size of small peas ; they hang on the plant until January, when they are often eaten by birds. The seed-spike in the illustration was cut just before Christmas, and proved as decorative and lasting as did the flower in June. C o r d y 1 i n e australis is probably not hardy inland. On the west coast of Scotland, however, it grows splen- didly and flowers most years. Last summer we had 160 blooms all out at once. There are more berries than usual this winter. Self-sown seedlings frequently appear near the old plants. — Kenneth McDouall of Logan, Port Logan, Scotland. THE WHITE MARTAGON LILY. T HAVE been greatly interested by M. Henry Correvon's delightful article in The Garden (page 657) on European Martagon Lilies. His descriptions of Alpine flora in their native homes FLOWERING SPRAY OF CORDYLINE AUSTRALIS THE CORDYLINE IN BERRY. bring back memories of many happy days and walks in those regions (in May and early June) beginning with the glorious sight, on emerging for the first time from the St. Gothard Tunnel, of the rugged cliffs on each side of the railway covered with the horizontal plumes of Saxifraga Cotyledon waving in the wind. I was especially interested in reading M. Correvon's description of the white Martagon Lily in natural conditions. 48 THE GARDEN. [January 27, 1923. My first acquaintance with this Lily began nearly twenty-six years ago, when I first came to my it home. There were then very few flowers in the garden, but there were the purple-pinkish Martagon Lilies in abundance, and to my great astonishment, as I had never before seen it, the lovely white ones with their orange anthers, similar to those described by M. Correvon. They up every year, and the white ones seem to increase in numbers. I have tried to get plants of them to give to one of my most generous garden- ing friends, but it is quite impossible to reach to the end of the root ; they seem to go down for many feet into this fairly stiff soil. I see that Miss Jekyll, in her delightful book on " Lilies for English Gardens," describes the white Martagon as the " Greatest treasure of the Martagons, a flower of rare beauty ; they like loamv soil, in which they will do in almost any position, but they are finest in cool and damp places, though they do not flourish in the very coldest of our soils and climates. Martagons make no stem roots, rooting only from the bulb, they need not therefore be planted deep." My experience differs from Miss Jekyll's. This garden is in Leicestershire, a very cold county, and is situated over 500ft. above the sea. The soil is a somewhat stiff and cold one, especially where the Martagons flourish, and they seem to bloom equally well every year irrespective of weather and, as I have already mentioned, their roots descend here to the very bowels of the earth. If this note is not already too long, may I mention the remark- able fruiting and ripening of seeds and shrubs generally considered delicate in this climate. Chimonanthus fragrans has been covered with large fruits containing ripe seeds, and is now (January 5) full of bloom. Amygdalus macrocarpa also has a large crop of fruits all ripened, with very hard shells, but bitter to the taste. Staphylea has also seeded abundantly and Magnolia Soul- angeana, though alas ! I did not realise it till too late, and the seeds became decayed owing to the recent heavy rains. Halesia Carolina (Snow- drop Tree) has been equally fruitful. Curiously enough, the Walnuts, which were most plentiful, have all proved useless to eat, the kernels being quite rotten. — Ellen Murray Smith, Market Harborough. CAMPANULA HAYLODGENSIS. TX The Garden of December 30 last, Mr. Cecil M. Bailey writes of a Campanula which he has under the above name as of " delicate growth and trailing habit " with " pretty violet blue flowers" which he describes as "small." It is evident that he has not got the true C. haylod- gensis, which has very large and wide-open bells for its size, and these are a lovely pale porcelain blue. Nor could this excellent hybrid be called a trailer. With us, at any rate, it makes a tufty growth and shews no inclination to trail. The leafage is a bright green, usually tending to a yellowish tint. — J. [C. haylodgensis is obviously a hybrid of C. isophylla, and accordingly not too hardy inland. Our correspondent has well described its appear- ance.— Ed.] AN EARLY RHODODENDRON. TOURING the winter months, where situations and soils permit, one may look forward to the flowering of that cheering shrub, Rhododen- dron Nobleanum. Among the numerous early- flowering varieties it is undoubtedly the first to blossom, and produces a magnificent and effec- tive show of rosy crimson flower trusses. The blossoms often have a deal of inclement weather to face — occasionally severe frosts, and frequently strong winds. Care is therefore needed when planting to select a fairly sheltered position. A thin surrounding of deciduous trees would prove of great assistance and break considerably the rough winds. An easterly aspect, too, should be avoided. The first blooms this season were shewing in early November. They have been produced freely ever since, and the flowers last for many weeks. The trusses of this species are of medium size and on the bush are most effective. — R. F. Lec.i // . FOR A (OLD WALL. 'T'HOSE who have a cold but prominent position on a wall to furnish could do much worse than plant Garrya elliptica. The male plant is, when laden with its beautiful catkins, most conspicuous from the middle of December for weeks onward. I enclose a photograph of a plant growing on a north wall taken at Christmas either form or colour is a jewel, and well worth securing. — T. O. Walker, Annas Bank, Carnforth. THALICTRUM ADIANTIFOLIUM AND ITS HARDINESS. AMONG the various species and varieties of Thalictrum the dainty-leaved adiantifolium is sometimes lost sight of, and others like T.T. Delavayi, glaucum and aquilegifolium purpureum are grown instead. As its name implies, it much resembles in foliage the tender Maidenhair Fern. The foliage is, accordingly, valuable for cutting for indoor decoration. Of the Meadow Rues it is, possibly, the least hardy, and to ensure it going safely through the winter I usually mulch the crowns with coconut fibre in late autumn, which is all they need. It may not be generally appreciated that T. adiantifolium is best suited when planted in partial shade, as under a pergola for instance, otherwise if fully exposed to the sun GARRYA ELLIPTICA AT CHRISTMASTIDE. before it was quite at its best, but sufficiently developed to shew how beautiful it can be in dark winter days. — H. C. W. SAXIFRAGA AURA. T READ with much interest Mr. Clarence Elliott's note in your issue of January 13 re the above beautiful hybrid. I had the pleasure of seeing the plant when it first bloomed, as far as I can remember, in or about 1910, with one solitary flower of a rich glowing deep pink colour. Mr. Redman, Mr. Farrer's manager, was naturally very proud of it, and propagated it. The point I want to make, however, is the question raised by Mr. Elliott as to its parentage. In the pot was one of the yellow labels affected by the Craven Nursery, on which was written " lilacina x Lapey- rousei." In discussing this plant since with other growers of rock plants, some doubt was thrown as to this cross producing the characters found in Mira. Mr. Farrer kindly gave me a rosette, which is now a nice little plant ; but it has not altered in colour, nor can I imagine there were two plants in the first flowering specimen I saw. I can only surmise that, in propagating, some latent grace has been developed. In any case the leaves soon begin to wither. The chief value of this variety lies in its fragile and beautiful foliage, and not in the blossoms, which are com- paratively insignificant. — W. Linders Lea. [It had never struck the Editor that T. minus adiantifolium was anything but entirely hardy. Would other readers please give their experience on the point. — Ed.] EARLY STRAWBERRY RUNNERS. T SEE in your issue of December 30, 1922, the Rev. G. H. Engleheart writes on the subject of planting rooted runners of Strawberries from maiden plants in July for fruiting the following summer. I have always planted on this plan in my own garden, but for the last ten years have had no garden. I now want to start a Strawberry- bed next July or beginning of August, but am at a loss to know how I can get the rooted runners early enough, for, as your correspondent says, the nurserymen will never send them out till much later, thereby wasting a whole season. Could you tell me where I can procure three or four dozen rooted runners next July. 1 should like a good early sort — perhaps Royal Sovereign — and a later kind. I shall be very grateful if you can help me. — (Mrs.) J. W. Maitland King. January 27, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 49 FOR INDOOR DECORATION. T WONDER whether your readers have tried using the berries of the Snowberry (the clus- tered fruit variety) and of Cotoneaster Simonsii together for house decoration. They have given us great pleasure. The readers of The Garden who do not already do so should grow Crocuses Tommasinianus, speciosus and zonatus. They are delightful. C. speciosus increases fast, sowing itself freely here and there and yet never encroaches. C. zonatus was in bloom in the grass at the end of November last. — F. A. Sturge. THE ASTILBES. ONE wonders why these telling and graceful plants are so seldom mentioned in gardening papers. Is it because the average grower of herbaceous plants thinks of them only as plants for the waterside — water lovers pure and simple ? Such was my idea of them until August last, when I had the pleasure of visiting the gardens of Mr. Gerald Garnet at Wyreside, near Lancaster. There I saw the Astilbe growing round the edge of a shallow pond, but these were only the cast- outs from a lovely set growing on the north border of the walled-in garden. Beyond preparing the border well, prior to planting, these plants get no special attention, and yet they were a mass (I might almost say a mist) of bloom from i8ins. to 5ft. or 6ft. high, and ranging in colour from white, as Grandis, through pink, as Gruno, to deep red, as Salland, with other shades of rose or pink. Plants of even the newest varieties are very reasonable in price, and should be tried. — T. O. Walker. NARCISSUS NOTES. TN The Garden of September 23, 1922, on page 480, Mr. Jacob has an article on Daffodils. I also am interested in them. He says Phyllida is an Incomparabilis, which I believe is correct. When, however, he says that Bath's, now hold the stock of it, he is not correct, as a year ago I exhibited a vase of it both at Wellington and Lower Hutt. This year I again exhibited it at Marton Show. Mr. Mason, nurseryman, of Feilding, saw it on my stand and remarked what a good thing it was. I have had Carnation some years, but it has not bloomed yet. Bernardino I sent to Mr. Grindrod, Auckland, and he wrote to say that the blooms did not open with him. I have no trouble with it myself, however, and can depend on every bloom to open. At its best it is very fine and " taking " on a stand. — Robert Gibson, Manaia, New Zealand. THE AWARD OF GARDEN MERIT The following plants received the Award of Garden Merit on November 27, last : Stranwesia undulata. Evergreen shrubs are always valuable in the garden, and when to the winter green of their foliage they add pleasant flowers in summer, bright red fruits in autumn, and brilliant dying tints to their leaves, they are particularly valuable. All this one finds in Stranvresia undulata. Its long-oval, glossy green leaves, sometimes but not always undulate at the margins, turn bright red before they fall, but not all at once. Here and there on the bush are a few red among the green almost the year round. It bears groups of small white flowers at the tips of the shoots in June, and though these are rather fleeting, they help to keep the shrub border bright when the more commonly grown shrubs are passing. In autumn their place is taken by brilliant groups of red haw-like fruits, fortunately not so loved of birds as so many of our autumn fruits are that vanish in a day just as or even before they are ripe. The bush is of rather open habit, so that its characters are easily seen, and it grows to a height of 6ft. or 8ft., and possibly eventually even taller. Like so many of our beautiful shrubs, this is a native of Western China, whence it was first introduced by Mr. E. H. Wilson, who in 1900 sent seed to Messrs. Veitch. It appears to present no difficulty in cultivation ; it seems not at all particular as to soil so long as the drainage is good ; it is perfectly hardy, having withstood unharmed the severe winter of 1917 at Wisley ; and is altogether a great acquisition among hardy evergreens. S. undulata was figured in the Botanical Magazine at t. 8418. Pyracantha Gibbsii. No trees or shrubs have more justified in 1922 their inclusion among garden plants than the well known coral red Pyracantha coccinea (or Crataegus Pyracantha as it is still often called) and its beautiful variety Lalandei with larger, more orange fruits. That came to us from Asia Minor and South Europe, but China has much more recently yielded some beautiful shrub, apparently nearly related to the Nepalese repre- sentative of the genus, P. crenulata, but sufficiently distinct to warrant separate names, at any rate in gardens. It is difficult to say which is the most beautiful of these new-comers, and not all are yet widely known, but among them P. Gibbsii will certainly hold its own. Quick-growing to about 10ft. in height, with glossy dark evergreen foliage considerably larger than that of P. coccinea, making a tall, rather fastigiate bush, flowering abundantly just after the Hawthorn ceases with dense bunches of white flowers, and never failing to bear great bunches of brilliant scarlet fruits as large as peas and contrasting beautifully with the foliage from October to December, this is a species worthy and capable of filling a place in any ordinary garden and in any part of Great Britain. The seeds grow freely, and may give rise to forms differing somewhat in the shape of the leaves, the exact shade of the ripe fruits and the precise time of ripening, but all alike worth growing ; and if it be desired to propagate any one of the forms it may readily be done, either by cuttings or by layers. Rubus biflorus quinqueflorus. Many Rubi have come out of China, and some have little perhaps to recommend them for our gardens, but the subject of this note is not one of the latter. It is a striking plant, robust and handsome and graceful in habit. It owes its value to the remarkable stems, which are covered all over with a thick coat of wax so that they look as though they had been whitewashed, and strike a note in the shrub border which is almost unique in its effect. The canes reach about 10ft. in length, but arch over and root at the tip. This habit makes them easy to propagate, and the palatable fruits are also freely produced and seedlings appear to come true. The plants are best treated in the same way as summer-fruiting Raspberries, old canes being cut out after flowering about August, leaving the strong young canes for their winter effect. The plant is all the better for liberal treatment. SEAWEED AS A FERTILISER FROM the earliest days of our agricultural history, farmers, of northern lands in particular, have used seaweed as a manure in the raising of general crops, and there are many to-day, among whom are some of the most intensive cultivators in the world, by whom seaweed is held in the highest esteem. Yet, although we are an island people, only a comparatively small, almost negligible, proportion is used of that vast quantity of wrack which grows or is cast up on our shores and on the banks of tidal waters. That seaweed is worth the hauling and the incidental labour involved is proven not only by the fact that it is used so largely by the Channel Islanders, Scottish Potato growers and others, but there are progressive farmers and market gardeners who find that it pays them to carry this material by motor tractor or water long distances inland. Analysis bears out the testimony ' of practical users that seaweed is as rich in nitrogen and potash as an average sample of farmyard manure. Indeed, it contains more potash than the latter, and its nitrogen, if slower in its action than that of dung, is more durable as a plant food. The only fertilising elements of importance in which seaweed is deficient are phosphates and fibre, or humus. The former it is not difficult to supply and, as for the fibre, the weed partlv compensates for the absence of this by its power of quickly reducing any other vegetable matter with which it comes in contact into humus. Thus, where seaweed is mixed with raw vegetable refuse, or manure, it will accelerate decay and render such matter of use to plant life in a very much shorter time than if the latter were left to the ordinary processes of decomposition, and in this respect it is better than lime, inasmuch as it does not destroy humus as the latter will. Seaweed also has what one may call a mechanical effect upon the land. If it is used for light, sandy soils, which are liable to become very dry in summer, it will materially assist in the conservation of moisture. Soil pests dislike seaweed, and there are many noxious weeds which disappear from farms regularly dressed with it, while the seaweed in itself carries no weed seeds or spores of disease to the land as farm manures are liable to do. Though there is hardly a crop to which seaweed will not prove beneficial, particularly on light land, it has, in my own experience and that of others, proved especially good for the Brassiere (including Turnips and Kohl Rabi), Potatoes, Beet, Mangolds and Carrots. It has also been used with excellent results in fruit culture. Seaweeds vary a good deal in their manurial value, the broad-fronded Laminaria and the common black Fucus (Black Tang) of the rocks being the most useful. Spring-gathered samples are richer in plant foods than those taken at anv other season. Practical growers who emplov wrack usually plough it direct into the soil in spring or autumn, according to locality. Others stack it in heaps or mix it with farm manure and other vegetable matter as suggested above ; but there is no doubt that seaweed, like any other organic manure, loses much of its fertilising value from exposure to rain. Of the fresh weed it is customary among those who use it regularly to apply 10 to 15 tons per acre to leguminous crops and 30 to 40 tons for Potatoes, roots or Brassiere. Experiments made both in this and other countries shew that super- phosphate given with seaweed has given highly satisfactory results. A. T. J. 50 THE GARDEN. [January 27, 192; GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Cauliflowers. — Seedlings from the autumn will have been pricked out in cold frames uid to prevent the plant> from becoming ed in the latter they should he potted off in 4m. pots, using a mixture of loam and manure from a spent mushroom-bed. Over-watering must be guarded against, and the plants ought 1" be grown as hard as possible by admitting ah and removing the lights whenever the weather is favourable. Another sowing should be made in a cold frame or cool greenhouse, selecting an early maturing variety such as Early London or First Crop. Early Cauliflowers constitute an important crop in many gardens because at that time vegetables are rather scarce. \ Rhubarb. — Apples are plentiful this year, so there has been no necessity to be in a hurry with forced Rhubarb. Now, however, a few roots may be introduced to a warm greenhouse • or cellar. Under the stage of the former is an excellent place. Cover the roots with soil from the garden and keep it moist. Onions. — The first sowing of a good form of Ailsa Craig may be made in boxes of loamy soil 4ins. or .sins. deep. If the boxes are placed in slight heat, they should be moved to a cooler structure when germination has taken place and kept near the glass to keep the seedlings sturdy. A cool Peach-house or cool pit is best for general purposes where growth will be slower, and the plants will be ready for their permanent quarters in March without the trouble of pricking them off in boxes or frames. The Flower Garden. Bog Plants. — Where ponds, lakes or pools running through a rock garden exist, many plants may be successfully grown on the sides or margins which are often referred to as bogs. Among the finest plants for such places are the various ceiloured Iris Ka?mpferi, Astilbes, the bold Saxifraga peltata, Rodgersias, Primulas of the japonica type, the rich golden Marsh Marigolds and others. For the side of a lake, Gunnera manicata and G. scabra are to be strongly recommended. Hollyhocks. — These stately plants should find a home in every garden, and if treated more or less as annuals the disease does not appear to be so rampant. Those with double flowers are ver\ fine, but for grace and elegance the single kinds take first place. Seeds should be sown in well drained pans containing a mixture of loam and leaf-mould. Sow the seeds thinly and cover with fine soil, and germination will soon take effect if the pans are placed in a temperature of 6o°. When large enough, pot off singly or prick out in boxes, and when they are fairly well established harden off gradually. Do not over-water the roots, and when the plants are arranged in a cold frame admit plenty of air. An open site should be chosen for their flowering quarters. Verbenas. — Among Verbenas there are several choice and distinct colours, and most of the plants come tolerably true from seed. The giant forms are very effective for beds and borders. Seeds of these charming plants may be sown from now until the beginning of March. Place the pans in a warm greenhouse, pot off the seedlings when ready, and grow on as cool as possible until May, when they should be transferred to the beds. Fruit Under Glass. " Vines. — In the early vinery the shoots will soon need tying down to the wires, and such work ought not to be delayed. If the shoots are allowed to come in contact with the glass and sharp cold weather sets in, they will probably be injured. I.i. h growth will need pinching, but this must be done in accordance with the space to be filled. As a rule each shoot is stopped at the second joint beyond the bunch of fruit. The later Vine rods will need pruning and cleaning, and the house ought thoroughly to be cleansed and the walls limewashed. Prune the growths bark to two eyes, free the rods of all loose bark, and then wash them with a strong solution of Gishurst Compound. If mealy bug is present there is nothing better than the Vine Rod Insecticide, which must be applied when the Vines are dormant. When growth is and the house is warm and moist a sharp watch must be kept for mealy bug and every one destroyed. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Wall Trees. — The pruning and tying in of the trees on walls should be proceeded with when the weather is favourable. Established trees of iches, Nectarines and Morello Cherries should have the old fruited wood cut away and replaced with well ripened young shoots. The beginner must guard against overcrowding. It is best to li the whole of the tree from the wall, and all the old shreds and tying material should be burnt. 1. W. Briscoe (Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq.), i astleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Jerusalem Artichokes require a long period of growth for their full development, and as they are perfectly hardy and start into growth early the tubers should be planted as soon as the soil is in working condition. A moderately rich soil is most suitable for this crop. Select rather undersized tubers and pare away all the eyes except the main one and plant in drills 2jft. apart allowing 15ms. between the tubers in the drills. Lettuce. — Sow a pinch of seed of some small early variety such as Tom Thumb or Early Ohio, and germinate in a moderately warm structure. Cauliflowers. — Make a small sowing in a pan or shallow box and germinate as advised for early Lettuce. When germination has taken place and water is required apply by partially immersing the pan or box as a preventive of damping, which is the enemy to be guarded against. Snowball and Early Erfurt are suitable varieties for this early sowing. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Bush Fruits. — Take advantage of suitable weather for forking over the ground around Gooseberries, Currants and Raspberries. If manure has not already been applied, the omission should be made good prior to commencing forking opera- tions. Failing some form of farmyard manure, a dressing of bonemeal or even soot may be substi- tuted. A slight dressing of ground lime will also prove beneficial. Fruit Trees in Grass. — Where the grass has been allowed to cover the entire surface, it will be found beneficial to scarify the surface for some 3ft. round the stem of each tree and slightly to fork over the soil prior to applying a mulch of half-decayed farmyard manure. This system has several advantages ; it aerates the soil, feeds the trees and encourages the fibrous roots to keep near the surface. The Flower Garden. Bearded Irises. — The Iris has come into its own during recent years. The Bearded section may not be the most aristocratic of the genus, but it has forms of beauty denied to some of the other sections, and being easy of culture it can most readily be recommended to the average cultivator. Like many other plants, these Irises shew to best advantage when grown in masses. An Iris border is a source of interest and pleasure, and the next few weeks will be a suitable time for starting one. These Irises are not very particular either as to soil or situation. Do not plant deeply, as success largely depends upon the ripening of the fleshy rhizomes. In order to extend the flowering period the front of the border may be planted with a variety of the smaller bulbous plants, while the back line may be interspersed with Iris sibirica, Hyacinthus candicans, Mont- bretias and Gladioli, the foliage of all of which harmonises with that of the Irises. Jasminum nudiflorum. — So far as my obser- vation goes, this welcome winter-flowering climber has proved very precocious this winter. As soon as it has gone out of flower it should be pruned. As it flowers on the previous year's wood, the shoots which have just furnished the bloom should be cut awav, and if too thick some of the shoots formed during the summer of 1922 should be thinned out. Cotoneaster Simonsii makes a beautiful hedge plant with its abundant crop of orange red berries, and as it is all but absolutely hardy it may be planted without hesitation in any district of the country. It is also very effective as a wall plant. Fruit Under Glass. Melons. — Where an early crop of Melons is desired a sowing should be made within the next week or so. Sow singly in small pots filled with loam plus a dash of old hot-bed manure, plunge in bottom-heat where a temperature of 650 to 700 is maintained. For this early sowing use a free-setting variety, such as Hero of Lockinge. Fruit Trees in Pots. — For economic reasons many owners of gardens have converted part of their plant-houses into fruit-houses. Many of these houses are quite suitable for the culture of fruit trees in pots. Those who have fruit trees in pots plunged out of doors should now bring them inside. Before doing so free the pots of weeds and thoroughly wash them. Remove lin. or ?.ins. of the surface soil by means of a hand- fork or a pointed stick and replace with fresh loam mixed with a little bone-flour. Apply no heat except to exclude frost, meantime ventilate whenever bright sunshine occurs. Charles Comfort (Formerly Head-Gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian). EDITOR'S TABLE Cytisus racemosus. — We have received from Mr. H. Reynolds, Scratby Hall, Great Yarmouth, sprays of Cytisus racemosus (syn. C fragrans), from a bush growing outside. The plant we understand is growing at the south end of a low span-roofed house and planted practically in the side of the pathway. We further learn that the plant has stood in its present position two winters without any protection whatever, except that afforded by the end of the house. The bush has been in flower since the end of September, but the recent heavy rains have somewhat damaged the blossom. Trials at Wisley, 1923.— The Royal Horti- cultural Society will carry out at Wisley during 1923 trials of Dwarf Tropa?oIums ; Sweet Peas of carmine, deep pink, cerise, salmon and orange shades, Brussels Sprouts, Kales, Carrots (in open). Climbing Beans, Onions. Vegetable Marrows and Cucumbers. Seeds of these plants should reach the Director, R.H.S. Gardens, Wisley, Ripley, Surrey, on or before January 31, 1923. Goods : Horslcy Station, L. and S.W. Railway. Our next issue (that for February 3) will be a Special Novelty Number. Many valuable new plants and strains will be described, and a number illustrated. Answers to Correspondents FLOWER GARDEN. DAHLIA LEAVES CURLED (A Hong Kong Reader).— In the absence of specimens it is impossible to say wnether insects are the source of the trouble complained of. It is commonly due, however, to some cultural error, especially connected with the water supply, in its relation to tem- perature changes. Cold nights are particularly liable to cause difficulty in regulating the amount of water required. NAMES OF FRUIT.— J. W., Coventry. — Apple Foster's Seedling. NAME OF PLANTS. — S. H. B. — Eucalyptus Ounnii. H. Rob. — 1, Cotoneastei Erigida ; 2. Cotoneaster Simonsii ; 3, Forsythia sp., probably F. suspensa. Selected DUTCH BULBS, ROSES & PERENNIAL PLANTS FOR SPRING PLANTING. Descriptive Catalogue free on application. Delivery carriage paid. No Charge for Packing. JOHN B. VAN DER SCHOOT (Own Bulb Farms over 400 Acres), HILLEGOM, HOLLAND NARCISSUS, HILLEGOM. Ianhary 27. 1923.J THE GARDEN. COLUMN BIRD BATH. A new and inexpensive garden ornament. Write to W. Gaze for Illus- trated Catalogue (4.D.) of Garden Ornaments, Paving Stone for Garden Paths, etc. Prices and particulars on application. W. H. GAZE & SONS, LTD., Garden Architects and Craftsmen. 19-23, HIGH STREET, KINGSTON - ON - THAMES. CLul&CU\4 SCOTCH SEED POTATOES Our stocks are grown and selected specially for Seed purposes, and under normal con- ditions of soil and situation, cannot fail to produce first-class crops. All are Class I. Scotch, Immune varieties certified by Board of Agriculture. Bags free. Keenest prices. Write for Catalogue. NEW VARIETIES.— New Catriona, Di Vernon, Katie Glover. FIRST EARLIES America, Arran Rose, Eclipse, Edzell Blue, Epicure, Immune Ashleaf, Midlothian Early, Sharpe's Express, Victory, Witch Hill Early. SECOND EARLIES. — Arran Comrade, British Queen, Great Scot, K. of K., King George, Nithsdale. MAINCROP. — Abundance, Arran Chief, Arran Victory, Bishop, Crusader, Golden Wonder, Kerr's Pink, King Edward, Langworthy, Lochar, Majestic, Roderick Dhu, Tinwald Perfection, Up-to-Date, White City. AUSTIN'S GOLD MEDAL GARDEN SEEDS. Descriptive Catalogue of all varieties of out- standing merit free on request. Write for copy. Orders have prompt attention. AUSTIN & McASLAN, 89-95, Mitchell Street, Glasgow, Established 1717. Used Throughout the World. Award d Hundreds of Gold Medals. WEBBS' COLLECTIONS OF SEEDS. VEGETABLE SEEDS FLOWER SEEDS WEBBS' COLLECTIONS OF GARDEN PEAS To produce a Successional Supply. 4 Pints, 4 fine sorts 7 '- 6 do. 6 do. 10- 12 do. 12 do. .. 19 - 6 Quarts 6 do. 18- ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE (Seeds, Potatoes, Manures, etc.) FREE ON REQUEST. WEBB & SONS, Ltd., STOURBRIDGE. Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN. Catalogue Free on application. C. ENGELMANN, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. Send NORTH and get THE BEST * Scotch Seed! Potatoes DIRECT from FORFARSHIRE FARMS <* are Unsurpassed for Crop and Quality. J[ 30 of the best and newest varieties are f^ described in our Spring List of Reliable J't Vegetable and Flower Seeds for 1923. J!. Send a P.C. for a Post Free Copy. ^>- If interested, also ask for a copy of our T* Nursery Catalogue of HARDY SCOTCH PLANTS ■"&■ for Flower Borders and Rockeries ; ROSES, J: FRUIT TREES, etc. £ ~V THYNE & SON, Dept. G, DUNDEE. ~-f *>V .-At At »•« «■&> »'« »% *r* »t» •&» »*» |A, »♦» »♦„ j,t„ *t* »*» »♦-) »$m »♦» »** »♦- *.' ■ FROM ONE GARDEN LOVER TO ANOTHER LEAF BLISTER On Peaches, Nectarines, &c. MEDELA is a sure preventive and should be used NOW, before the buds burst. 1 quart, 2/6; J-gall., 3/6; 1 gall., 6/-; 2 gall., 10/6: 5 gall., 25/-. Carriage extra. Dilution: 1 part to 16 soft water. GEO. BUNYARD & Co., Ltd., Royal Nurseries, MAIDSTONE. GARDEN SUPPLIES LTD. (Boundary Chemical Co.) CRANMER ST. LIVERPOOL Solicit jjour Enquiries WHEN YOU WANT A GOOD THING FOR YOUR GARDEN In Roses, Bulbs, Shrubs, Plants, Seeds, Fruit Trees, Manures, Weed or Pest Killers, Lawn Seed, Lawn Improvers, &c. 'SATISFACTIONS GUARANTEED OR MONEY RETURNED Catalogue Post Free Write us Now h. j. jones' as^r~ contains select list of all the new and best up-to-date varieties in all sections, also list of gold medal Phlox', new Michaelmas Daisies, choice Delphiniums, new Hydrangeas, giant Mont- hretias, Giant Cannas, choice Gladioli, etc., sent post free for 2d. stamp. List of CHRYSANTHEMUM NOVELTIES post free. H. J. JONES' Chrysanthemum Guide. Best work on Culture. New7Edition in preparation (135th thousand), ready shortly. Paper covers post free 1'2, Cloth covers 2/3. Gold medal Phlox, 7/6 and 10,'- per doz.; gold medal/ Michaelmas Daisies, 7/6 and 10'- per doz. ; new giant Mont/ bretias, 7/6 and 10;- per doz. ; finest named Delphiniums] 12/- and 18/- per doz. ; gold medal decorative Dahlias, pal roots, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; Hydrangeas, grand new varieties, 60/- per doz. All box, packing and carriage free for cash zcith order. RYECROFT NURSERIES, Lewisham, S.E.13. VI. THE GARDEN. [January 27, 1923. Tfou carft Dig a Garden- with good intentions and a hairpin. There has to be some honest spade-work. You can do your digging and weeding with anybody, but you have your little weakness like the rest of 'em ! You like to look as though you d done it. A little perspiration, and good honest dirt thick up to the elbow! Well, and why not? Just walk about a little where the neighbours can see you, and then — KIT. KIT soap will clear every atom of dirt. grease, oil, paint or tar out of your hand, and will do it nearly twice as quickly as anything else. It is a nice " spready " sort of soap, so you need only a little. The tin is blue and orange (the handy shape and the handy size), and the lid comes off just when you want it Keep a tin in the house for cleaning after odd jobs. Price 6d. per Tin. is IT is KT.3 LEVER BROTHERS LIMITED. PORT SUNLIGHT PLANTING SEASON. GEO. JACKMAN & SON Woking Nurseries, SURREY (Established over a Century) Invite Inspection of their Large and Varied Stock of ORNAMENTAL TREES -AND. SHRUBS, ROSES, CLIMBERS, FRUIT & FOREST TREES, HERBACEOUS & ALPINE PLANTS. 200 Acres of Stock to select from. Catalogues Free on application. Advice given on all matters appertaining to LANDSCAPE GARDENING and Estate Improvements. %%%%+»« ■»*«<*%«» % VEGETABLE SEEDS DANIELS' SELECTED STRAINS. A Copy of our 1923 Catalogue, with Cultural Hints for the Amateur Gardener, will be sent Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. DANIELS & SON, WYMONDHAM, NORFOLK THE BOY'S OWN AQUARIUM and THE BOY'S OWN BOOK OF PETS, two booklets by Frank Finn, B.A., F.Z.S. ; full of practical hints and useful Information for parents and boys. Published at 9d. each, by post lid.,. at the Offices of " Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. January 27, 1923.] THE GARDEN Vll. "Prepare for the Spring." Be ready this year for the cold winds and frosts which take toll of your seedlings, young plants and fruit crop, unless you take steps to keep them off. will do this at a cost that will be repaid by the extra yield of the first season's crop. " Windolite," like glass, keeps out cold and wet, but lets in light, whilst plants thrive under it. Unlike glass, however, " Windo- lite " can be bent, but not broken, can be cut with scissors and fixed easily to the lightest of framework. With " Windolite," no skilled labour is needed in making cloches, screens and hand- lights of any size or shape, which in use are strong, light and handy, but, when not wanted, can be put away without fear of damage. If your local dealer does not stock, we shall be pleased to send any length from one yard upwards post free, on receipt of cost. Width. 23jin. 27l in. 31jin. 35 in. 39 in. Prices per yard 4111 5/8 6/5 7/2 7/11 As sttPP'ied to Messrs. Nissen's, Ltd.. and Messrs. Boulton & Ptiu>. Ltd., for Windows in Army Hut *. Also made in Double or Triple strength for Roofing, Skylights and Verandahs. C. M. DAVIES & CO. (Dept. Bi, 179/185, Gt. Portland Street. London, W.1 Telephone: Langham 1819. Telegrams: " Cedaviesem, Westdo, London." Clearance Sale of Surplus Plants. In order to make room for replanting, we are offering the following at reduced rates. All strong transplanted. rj Anchusa Opal - - - - - Anemone japonica Honorine Joubert Aquilegia, mixed hybrids - Canterbury Bells - - - - Cheiranthus Allionii - Coreopsis grandiflora - Forget-me-nots, Royal Blue Foxgloves - Honesty ------ Lupinus polyphyllus, new hybrids Phloxes, finest named - Pinks, Mrs. Sinkins, extra fine Sweet Rocket - - - - - Sweet Williams, Pink & Scarlet Beauty Violets Qiant, singles - Wallflowers, in variety _ - - Orders of 10/- and over. Carriage Paid. Smaller orders 1/- extra. A great collection of Hardy Plants, Fruit Trees, Roses and Shrubs of all kinds in stock. Descriptive Catalogues Free. The BARNHAM NURSERIES, Ltd., BARNHAM, SUSSEX. iozen. 100 4/6 30/- 5/- 35/- 4/6 30/- 2 6 16 - 4/- 25/- 4/6 30 2/- 12/- 2 6 16/- 2/6 16 - 5/- 35/- 6/- 45/- 4/- 25/- 3/- 20/- 2/6 16/- 3/- 20/- 1/- 5/- SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. SITUATION VACANT. MAJOR GRAHAM requires a good working (iARDENER. Under gardener kept and cowman hall time. Must be good grower of vegetables, fruit, herbaceous borders et:. ; a little glass.— Apply, with full particulars of previous experience, family, etc. to Majok Gf.aham. Bryndenwen Court. Usk. Monmouthshire. A CONVINCING TESTIMONIAL. 'I am very pleased with the Green- house. I have had great pleasure in showing fiiends the new hotse. No doubt you wilt have to supply others in Southport before long. 1 sha'l always be pleased to show any enquirers the house, and can, with the grea'est confi- dence, recommend your firm for food class work ond attention I may require others later and will tend direct to you. ' J am now awfully disappoin'ed with my other ho j ses I had a few yea's ago frjm various other firms. I cannot now admire them after seeing yours erected." iiiiiimmiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii MELON & CUCUMBER FRAME No. H75 These frames or* made 6 ft. wide, Pain'ed two coats and glazed with 21 oz. GLASS. Front 1 1 ins. high, back 22 ins. high. Lights I h ins. thick- 1 Light, 4 X 6 ft. ... £4 0 0 2 „ 8 x 6 ft. ... 6 10 0 3 .. 12 x 6 ft. ... 9 2 0 Ligb'sonly / IS 6 Lights only, unglazed (no paint). IS - GARDEN FRAMES in every variety. Send for Lists with Reduced Prices. Cnrriage paid to Railway Stations in England and Wales A compact Greenhouse for A mateur Gardeners This inexpensive Greenhouse has been specially designed for private gardens and allotments. It is convenient both in size and price and, being made in complete glazed sections, it remains a tenant'1 s fixture, and can be easily dismantled and removed when necessary. REDUCED PRICE £29 :5 : 0 Brief Specification of H. 49a (above) Dimensions: 10 ft. by 8 ft., glazed with 21 oz. glass. Painted two coats, supplied in six sections complete with bolts and screws for fixing. Only British-made glass is used. Delivered from stock ready glazed and sent carriage paid to most Railway stations in England and Wales. Stock lengths, 10 ft., or made to 15ft., 20ft., or 23 ft. length to order. Can be erected in 90 minutes. oulton e/raul L) id Telegrams. BOULTON NORWICH Tel ephone NORWICH 851 (51 ines) NORWICH LONDON OFFICE 135-137, QUEEN VICTORIA ST. E.C Telegrams: Boutique.Cent London.Telephone4642 Cent iMiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiimiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii;iiiiiiiiiiMii:iimiii:miin»Mi;i TENANT'S OWN. 9ft. by 6ft. 10ft. by 7ft. . £20 19 £24 1J 0 0 12ft 15ft The ''IDEAL" PORTABLE GREENHOUSE. SOUND QUALITY. by 8ft £31 O 0 by 9ft £40 5 0 Other sizes quoted for. CARRIAGE PAID. Complete with Staging. An "Ideal" House for an "Ideal" Garden. SEND FOR LIST. 'T'HIS Mouse is not a shoddy and poorly constructed house that giyes you -* great difficulty in erecting, and when erected is an everlasting eyesore; such a house would disfigure any gard-n. You require a house that is built for utility and to be an ornament in your garden, in which case select the "IDEAL," which is constructed of the best materials, in the best possible manner, and with which there is no difficulty in ere* ting, being despatched assembled as far as possible, nothing whatever being left to be done on the site that could conveniently be done here. Prepared of well-seasoned Red Deal. Lights 2 in. thick, glazed with 21 oz. glass. Alt painted three coats. Lights fitted with handle and iron cross bar bolted together. Other sizes quoted for. Carriage Paid. ! 4 0 I 3 Light Frame, flft. bv 4ft. £6 19 0 (, 7 0 3,, „ 12ft. by 6ft. £9 7 0 n- 0 I GARDEN FRAMES 1 Light Frame, 4ft. bv 6ft. £4 •> , . 6ft. by 4ft. £5 " , 8ft. be 6ft. £6 16 W. T. REVITT, Railway Works, OLNEY, THE GARDEN. [January 27, 1923. 3 MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a "Horse Shoe" with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 138.000 S.I J. Used in the R.H S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughoJt the Country. Booklet E and Quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«PKii\r\elI«C°Ltd Southwark. Si". LONDON. S.E.I. jygggsrasggBggs. AUCTION SALES BY PROTHEROE & MORRIS Every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY, of ROSES, AZALEAS & RHODODENDRONS, Herbaceous and Rock Plants, FRUIT TREES, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, BULB8, etc., At 67 & 68, Cheapside, London,E.C2 Write for Catalogue: 'Phone: Bank 857. HORTICULTURAL BUILDERS 6- HEATING ENOlNEtPJ LOUGHBOROUGH • LEICESTERSHIRE Offic* . 122 VICTORIA ST • " HEATING For the Greenhouse is efficiently and economi- cally provided if you adopt this Boiler — the original of its type, and still the mostj reliable on the market. Estimates Free. Over 35.000 in uae. Prices Reduced. ■ ■■■■■ I SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMICALLY PREPARED. 1 0 the form of a leaf. mould, ready for use at any time, in the same way. and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes further (4 bushels equalling 15 cwtsj, gives better result, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. A Beautiful Free Booklet giving full particulars and testimonials sent on receipt of postcard VT BEW4HE OF IMITATIONS. GENUINE ONLY IN OUR MARKED BAGS, CONTAINING GUARANTEED ANALYSIS .•»rj Cash Prices, Including bag- ; Small (about 1 bushel), 3/. Large (about 4 bushels). 7/.: 6 Large, 33/9 ; 10 Large. 65/-; 20 Large, 120'- Carrlage Paid to any station within 25 miles of London, including delivery within free delivery radius of Railway Company. 6d. per bag extra for every 60 miles or part b-yonu. WAKELEY BROS. & CO., Ltd., 76a, BANK8IDE, LONDON, S.E.I. Largest Manufacturers of Flower Pots in the World. THE BEST AND CHEAPEST. SPECIAL POTS for Roses, Vines, Clematis, Orchids, and Chrysanthemums. Fancy Fern Pans and Bulb Bowls, from 4d. each. No Waiting ! All Orders executed the same day as received. State quantity of eaeh size required, and have Carriage Paid quotation, or write tor Illustrated Price List. RICHARD SANKEY & SON, LTD., Royal Potteries, BULWELL. NOTTINGHAM. Tom worn BOILER THE GREENHOUSE AND HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT. A new and practical booklet by the late W. Truelove. 9d. net ; by poet, lid. Published at the Offices of " Country Lite," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C 2. VELVET LAWNS The use of Climax Lawn Sand or "Premier" . Lawn Dressing now will be a revelation to you. Nothing else so reliable. PARTICULARS AND ADVICE FREE. Garden Supplies ltd %s£°i CRA.TSTIVIEI* STREET. LIVERPOOI I Corry's CONCENTRATED Winter Dressing (NON-POISONOUS) FOR Fruit AND OTHER Trees. For the destruction of all Insect Pests that shelter in the Bark during the Winter Months. This Preparation is highly valued by Practical Growers throughout the Kingdom. DIRECTIONS FOR USE ACCOMPANY EACH PACKAGE. SOLD BY THE TRADE GENERALLY. Prices— Pints, lj9\ Quarts, J/- ; J Gall., 4/9 ; 1 Gall., 8/6 ; 2 Galls., 161- ; 3 Galls., 27/-; 5 Galls., 32j- ; 10 Galls., 56!-. Manufactured by C0RRY & Co., Ltd., LONDON. FOR POTTING PURPOSES USfc. WELLSON'S ORGANIC PLANT FOOD A Plant well fed requires no stimulant Samples and Prices from WELLSON & CO., Castle Works, Garden St., Leeds LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. SWEET PEAS AND HOW TO EXCEL WITH THEM. By Horace Wright, 9d. net, by post lid. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. SPRAY Cooper's Winter Fluid Villa. COOPER 4 NEPHEWS, Lli, Str ki.aiud Clean .Healthy.Vicorous .11. Fruit trees Write for PunpUci HOW TO PRONE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet by Owen Thomas, y.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Street, Covent Garden. W.C.2. Offices, 20. Tavistock ricker" ^c^RDErTTERTILTsrfif Assist Nature by using VICKERS' GARDEN FERTILISER It is used extensively by Gardeners. Horticulturists, and Allotment Holders, and always gives complete satisfaction. CHEAPEST, BEST. AND MOST ECONOMICAL. GUARANTEED ANALYSIS PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble ! 18% Soluble '"s°"""e Nit-ogen Amm nia, (K2Q) Equal to Sulphate vf Potash (K2SCW) 4% j - 3% 4% 4-85%; 5% " 925& A PERFECT PLANT FOOD FOR FRUIT, FLOWER, AND VEGETABLE GARDENS. Sold hy the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. Packed in Sealed Bags, Tib. 2/-, 14lb. 3/6, 28lb. 6/6, 56lb. 12/6, 112Ib. 24/6 per Bag. If you have any difficulty in obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS & SONS, Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, WIDNES, LANCS. Published by "Country Lifb," Limited, at 20, Tavistock Street, Strand, W.C.2, and by Gbobcb Nbwnes, bunaBD, 8-11, Southampton Street, Strand- W.C. 2. Printed by The Avenue Press, 55 & 57, Drury Lane. London. W.C.2. THE GARDEN, February 3, 1923. SPECIAL NOVELTY NUMBER. THE ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2672. Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York, N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, February 3, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription: Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign, 17)4 ANNUAL LARKSPUR, SUTTON'S PINK PEARL. MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN] FOR BEDS! FOR EXHIBITION! FOR EVERYWHERE! Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. BARR'S TALL FLAG IRISES FOR PRESENT PLANTING Awarded R. H. S. Gold Medal at the Great Iris Conference, June 7th, 1922. 100 in ioo superb named varieties .. 75/-, 100/- & .. 36'-, 48/- & .. 16/-, 24/- & 8/-, 12/- & without names BARR'S DWARF CRIMEAN IRISES Produce a wealth of rich colouring during March and April. 100 in 20 beautiful named varieties .. .. 42/- ■ — 12 „ 6 „ „ .... 6/- — Mixed, without names .. .. .. per ioo, 35/-; per doz BARD SL QnN4 11, 12 & 13, KINO STREET, ^**nr*. « «7VM«7, COVENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.C.2 50 ,, so „ ,, 25 „ 25 12 „ 12 Choice mixed varieties 120/- 60/- 30/- 15/- :., 6/- B/- " I P I7DT IITIPR " THE WORLD's BEST MANURE. i-tLLi rr\ljlllll,r\. First at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:— 1 cwt., 30,'-; J-cwt., 16/6; 28 lbs., 9/-; 141bs.,5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6. 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE NOTICE TO OUR READERS /~\N receipt of a Post Card the under- ^~^ mentioned firms will be pleased to send their useful Catalogues free of charge. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Habdy Plant Farms ENFIELD. MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twbrton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Book of Seeds now ready R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. H KINGS ACRE ROSES | El noted for over a Century for [G] hardiness and reliability. [E] Useful alphabetically 13 El arranged Catalogue of more 13 El than usual interest, contain- 13 El ing helpful information, with 13 Special Collections for all 13 purposes. Free on request. 13 In] Nurseries 'Established 1785. Ifj] El KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 Qj] HEREFORD. [E] El E [3 ESS [a [3 [a Eta la Eta ESS [3 13 V Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening J. CHEAL Sc SONS, Nurseries CRAWLEY Ltd. Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, I4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i & 58 , Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT WRITE me Landscape and Garden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re-arranged. Plant- ing plans for borders, etc. Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. IPULHAM © SON SV APPOINTMENT TO HIS MAJESTY 71 NEWMAN ST-aXTORDST LONDON -W GPAPHIC CUP fpr best RockGanden CHELSEA- 1922 Plarvs Si 5urueys- \ hses • FburNlai r\3 ■ fKjurea-5ur\dral5-»c SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, givinfi full cultural directions at competitive prices. Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D.T.BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. Choice Chrysanthemums Our Novelty List for 1923 is now ready, also General Catalogue con- taining the very best varieties in each section, and selected Per- petual Flowering Carnations. Write to-day. SeiU free from KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX, and at SAWBR IDGEWORTH , HERTS, Tubs for shrubs. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal. 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak. Beech, Teak. etc. Highly decorative. — Price List from Pradal & Co., 26, Goodge Street. London, W.l. "BARROWS" PRUNER Special Features A perfectly easy and smooth " draw cut " action. Detachable Blades. The only pruner that does not pinch or squeeze the shoot. Black, 6/6. Spare Blades. Is. Od. each. Postage 7d, Sole Manufacturers : BURMAN & SONS, Ltd., Leebank Works, BIRMINGHAM. FOG WILLS "Best-Result" Seeds WILL GROW GET THIS FREE. IT TELLS ABOUT THE "SEEDS THAT ARE DIFFERENT." Post free with particulars of free Seeds from FOGWILLS SEED HOUSE (Dept. E), GUILDFORD. Established 70 years. The "SPALDING" Collection of SWEET PEAS. 15 BEST EXHIBITION VARIETIES, 12 Seeds each, price 4 -, post free. Annie Ireland Austin Frederick Constance Hinton Hawlmark Pink Bfajestic Cream * Charity Picture Gloriosa. Sunset Warrior George Shawyer Jean Ireland Mrs. Tom Jones Royal Scot Royal Purple GEORGE ELSOM, DT Seed & Bulb Grower, SPALDING SPECIALITE. PLANT NOW SPRING FLOWERING TREES- AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) N. Gauntlett & Co., Ltd.. Japanese Nurseries, Chiddtxcfold, r u The Shelley Sweet Peas Spring Sown Plants, ready M id- April. 1923 Novelties, 3 - per dozen. 1922 Novelties, 2/- and 1/6 per dozen. Older varieties from 4d. to 1/- per dozen. Also ANTIRRHINUMS and GARDEN SEEDS. Lists Free. T. H. DIPNALL F.R.H.S., Shelley, Hadleigh. Suffolk M*MtMAA«NIMIMft0mM*in*MWMinw*«IMimMm«*M*M«MVMMr PAUSE TO CONSIDER THIS SPECIAL OFFER OF CHOICE ALPINES. Then order for Spring delivery the following plants fr«mi pots : — SAXIFRAQA IRVINQM, the best pink Kabsehia. ONOSMA ALBO-ROSEUM, rosy white. SAXIFRAQA KELLERII, early pink and white spikes, o inches, PRIMULA INTEQRIFOLIA, collected plants; a fine range of colours — pale to darker pink and mauve. LITHOSPERMUM ROSEMARINIFOLIUM. a charming blue. 1 foot high. RANUNCULUS QLACIALIS, 11 inch ; collected plants, but established. DIANTHUS ALPINUS. SAXIFRAQA BURSERIANA SULPHUREA, pale primrose, very free. RAMONDIA PYRENAICA, for shady places, mauve. CAMPANULA WALDSTE IN IANA , deep mauve, 4 inches high, QENTIANA FARRERI, a gem for morraine ; pale blue : from China. ERYTHRAEA MASSONII (the pink Gentian); soft pink, 3 inches. Carriage paid, for cash tvitA order, for 17 6. GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT. February 3, 1923.] g^g;, ,** *$£*L. E GARDEN. '■•Ses^-^3^ ^^sfessi WEBBS' GARDEN CATALOGUE for 1923 is now ready. Post free to all who have gardens. Profusely illustrated, and contains particulars of the newest and best strains of Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Potatoes, Lawn Seeds. Bulbs. Fertilisers, Ac, WEBB & SONS, Ltd., The King's Seedsmen, STOURBRIDGE. WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials, Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— John Waterer Sons and Crisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks ; and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. • — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. vi. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15. — Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, chestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- cach, net cash, f.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex.— Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli is now ready. Send for particidars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard.— Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. TURF FROM OLD PARK LAND FOR SALE. Quantities of 1 acre and upwards, £30 per acre. Buyer to cut and cart. — Lessons Farm, Chislehuist. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — Hodson and Son, Ltd., 58 Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells & Co., Merstham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection invited. Price list post free on application. — Thos. Rivers & Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridgeworth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus — Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 : Express. 2/8 ; Epicure, 2/- : Ashleaf, 2/9 ; Great Scot, 1/10 : Arran Comrade, 1/9; Kerr's Pink. 1/8; Majestic, 2/-; Rhoderick Dim. 2,8; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early. 2/- ; Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K.ofK., 2/-; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward. 1/10: Arran Chief, 1/9; T. W. & Co., Plotholder. 2/9; Field Marshal, 2/6; Golden Wonder, 2/-; Tinwald Perfection. 1/9: Ally, 2/-; Witchhill, 2/9; Bloomfleld, 2/-, etc. Carriage Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks. Onions. Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce. Radish, Celery, Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt.. 2d., 3d. and fid. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries for Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Tillie, Whytt, and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— List of varieties with prices on application. — Alexander Graham, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. GASSON'S GARDEN & TENNIS BOUNDARY NET. List now ready, with samples, post free. — Gasson & Sons, Net Works, Rye. Established over 100 years. BARRS' SEED GUIDE, now ready, free. For a Select List of the best Vegetable and Flower Seeds of finest Selected Strains and Tested Growth. At the R.H.S. Wisley Trials our Strains of Vegetable Seeds have received exceptional recognition for high quality, many having been Highlv Commended and several given First-class Certificates and Awards of Merit.— Barr& Sons, 11, 12 & 13, King Street, Covent Garden, Loudon, W.C.2. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations can now be planted in any part of Great Britain. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorious scent. We have won more carnation awards of R.H.S. than any two firms together. Sow seed now, 2/6 and 5/- Plant list free. — J. DOUGLAS, Edenside, Great Bookham. JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories. Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Dauvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91. CONTENTS PAGE The Newest Trees and Shrubs . . . . 51 About Some of the Best New Roses . . 53 Progress with the Dahlia . . . . . . 54 Greenhouse Plant Novelties. . . . ■ ■ 55 What's New " in Flower Seeds . . . . 56 The Latest in Vegetables . . . . . . 58 Hardy Border Pinks ; 1923 Novelties . . 59 The Astilbes . . . . . . . . . . 59 Correspondence . . . . . . . . 60 Double Wallflowers ; Some Early Spring Flowers ; Mesembryanthemums Outdoors ; Aristea corymbosa ; Leucojum nicaense ; Shrubs for Town Gardens ; A Beautiful Primula ; Fern Spores in Garden Soil ; " Coddling " Alpines ; Lithospermum ros- marinifolium . Gardening of the Week . . . . . . 62 Vegetables all the Year Round . . . . 63 Answers to Correspondents . . . . . . 64 ILLUSTRATIONS Begonia Hilda Langdon' B. (Basket) Venus Buddleia alternifolia Chrysanthemum Japanese Mountain Cosmea Sutton's Early Double Dahlia, New Type of D. Rosella Amos Ferns in Coffee Bottles Hamamelis mollis Leucoium nicaense Pea Carter's Giant Podded Dwarf Pink Red Indian Potato Webb's Renown Primula chionantha P. obconica, Sutton's Salmon Queen P. sphcerocephala Pyracantha Gibbsii yunnanensis Rose Mary Merryweatlier Syringa Wilsoni 55 55 52 56 57 54 54 61 52 60 58 59 58 57 56 61 52 53 51 ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 16, Morden Ed., Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a pe.-fect fertiliser ; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wirework of everv description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for ;eparate lists. — Boulton and Paul, Limited Norwich. SUTTON'S VEGETABLE SEEDS. By constant selection and re-selection, year by year, our choice strains are maintained at the highest standard of excellence Our speciality for this week : — CUCUMBER, SUTTON'S EVERY-DAY. Sets freely at all seasons. Splendid cropper, good length, first- rate flavour. Per packet, 2/6 and 3/6. SUTTON * SONS, THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, READING. NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S LOVELY PEONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupines, Gaillardias, Phloxes Pasonies, etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Roses now ready. — Write for descriptive Catalogues to Kelway and Son, The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. DOBBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogue and Guide to Gardening, free, if tins paper is mentioned. PERRY^TSPECIAL OFFER OF JAPANESE LILIES, GLADIOLUS, MONTBRETIAS. Perry's Seed Cata- logue now ready. — Hardy Plant Farm, Enfield. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS.— New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable Tand* Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies.— (Dept. E), R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free — MnnKTUN, 6.r>, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations. Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior & Son Ltd., Colchester. CHRYSANTHEMUM CUTTINGS. — Louisa Pockett, Majestic, Mrs. Algernon Davis. Peace, Princess Mary, Queen Mary, all at 3/6 per doz., or two of each of the six varieties, 3/6 ; Blanche Poitevine, pure glistening white, splendid dwarf habit, 2/6 per doz. ; The Favourite, grand late white, 2/6 per doz. ; Percy A. Dove, fine late white, 2/6 per doz. ; Caprice du Printemps, splendid dwarf habit, 12 in 6 varieties, 2/6. Half dozens at same rates. Orders value 5/- post free ; under 5/-, 6d. for postage. Delivery per return post. Catalogues free. — J. W. COLE AND SON, Chrysanthemum Nurseries, Peter- borough. LAXTON'S SEEDS AND FRUIT TREES.— Catalogues (mention which required), containing novelties and all the old favourites, can be had on application. — Laxton Brothers, Seed Merchants, Bedford. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10/6 each. Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chichester. PRIVET & THORN.— Also Rhododendrons, Heathers 'and Alpines. Send for List. — Hodsons Limited, 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection of the best Vegetable and choicest strains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices, is now ready and will be sent free on application. — J. R. Pearson & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Send P.C. for list. Mention this paper. — Gray Bros., Heston, Middlesex. SHOW AND REGAL PELARGONIUMS. Strong, clean, healthy plants from Sin. pots. 12 fine named varieties, 7/6. Newer ones, 10/- and 12/- per dozen. Novelties of 1920,' 15/- per dozen. AH free by parcels post for cash with order, or carriage paid per passenger train in Leatherboard pots, 2/6 per dozen extra. Catalogues extra. — J. \V. Cole & Son, Midland Road Nursery, Peterborough. HARDY ORCHIDS.-— Cypripedium spectabile, good crowns, 3/-; C Calceolus, 1/6: Calopogon, 1/-; Bee Orchid, 9d. ; Spider, 1/-; Military, 1/6: Musk. 6d. Many others. List free. Alpine catalogue gratis. — Bowell and Skarratt, Nurseries, Cheltenham. GREENHOUSE PAINTING AND GLAZING. — "Vitrolite," superior to White Lead Paint, 18/6 per gallon; cans extra. " Plastine," the Imperishable Putty. 32/- per cwt. ; k-'t^s extra; 71b. tins, 4/3, post free 141b. tins, 5/6 each, carriage extra, tins free. — Fidl particulars from W. CARSON AND Sons, Grove Works, Battersea. THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. NEW PLANTS Our Speciality. All that are best in — _ _ _ _, a t I A M C ot our own and other raisers, Buch .1- the finest mauve of all— "Amos VnKIln I lUlld Qrove." The best salmon Carnation. "Eileen Low"; the largest and sweetest perfumed white "White Pearl." Special offer ol 6 New Carnations in Sin. pots for 27,6, carriage paid. Six New Carnations, flowering size, tor 37 6, carriage paid. Cash with order. ROSES A collection of the finest varieties from all parts of the world. Catalogues post free. STUART, LOW & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, Middlesex. HI iniMPQ* Chrysanthemum • J* Jv/llCiJ Catalogue contains select list of all the new and best up-to-date varieties in all sections, also list of gold medal Phlox, new Michaelmas Daisies, choice Delphiniums, new Hydrangeas, giant Mont- bretlas. Giant Cannas, choice Gladioli, etc., sent post free for 2d. stamp. List of CHRYSANTHEMUM NOVELTIES post free. H. J. JONES' Chrysanthemum Guide. Best work on Culture. New Edition in preparation (135th thousand), ready shortly. Paper covers post free 1*2, Cloth covers 2,3. Gold medal Phlox, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; gold medal Michaelmas Daisies, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; new giant Mont bretlas, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; finest named Delphiniums. 12/- and 18/- per doz. : gold medal decorative Dahlias, pot roots, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; Hydrangeas, grand new varieties, 60/- per doz. All box, packing and carriage free for cash with order. RYECROFT NURSERIES, Lewisham, S.E.13. Clearance Sale of Surplus Plants. In order to make room for replanting, we are offering the following at reduced rates. All strong transplanted. Dozen. 100 Anchusa Opal - - - - - 46 30- Anemone japonica Honorine Joubert 5 - 35 - Aquilegia, mixed hybrids - - - 46 30 - Canterbury Bells - - - -26 16- Cheiranthus Allionii - - - 4 - 25 - Forget-me-nots, Royal Blue - - 2 - 12 - Foxgloves - - - - -26 16 - Qaillardia grandiflora - 4 - 30/- Heuchera brizoides gracillima - - 4/- ,, sanguinea - 5 - Honesty - - - - - -26 16 - Linum perenne - 4- — ■ Lupinus polyphyllus, new hybrids - 5 - 35 - Phlox stellaria ----- 4;- Phloxes, finest named - 6," 45 - Pinks, Mrs. Sinkins, extra fine - 4;- 25 - Sweet Rocket - - * - - - 3/- 20 - Sweet Williams, Pink it Scarlet Beauty 2/6 16 - Violets Giant, singles - 3/- 20/- Wallflowers, in variety - 1/- 5/- Orders of 10/- and over. Carriage Paid. Smaller orders 1/- extra. A great collection of Hardy Plants, Fruit Trees, Roses and Shrubs of all hinds in stock. Descriptive Catalogues Free. The BARNHAM NURSERIES, Ltd., BARNHAM, SUSSEX. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND. Notici: is hi:kki;y given that the annual GENERAL MEETING ..I the Subscribers to this Fund will he held at "Simpson's," 100, Strand, London, W.C., on Thursday, February 8th, 1923, fur the purpose of receiving the Report of the Committee and Statement of Accounts for the past year: to elect Officers for the ensuing year; to elect fourteen children to the benefits of the Fund ; and to transact such other business as may arise. The Chair will be taken at 4 p.m. By Order, Jan. 24th, 1923. BRIAN WYNNE, Secretary. *.;• •£» »y» •£• «y» »y. *y» •$« «y» »f« *f »y» »y» •£» •£» >%- »(j* *£• or cash with order. R. WALLACE & CO., Ltd., The Old Gardens, TUNBRIDGE WELLS. BORDER CARNATIONS We have magnificent stocks of all the Best Garden Varieties. To lovers of this fra- grant flower we offer specially selected stock for present planting at Lowest Possible Prices consistent with our quality. Carriage & Packing Paid. COLLECTIONS. Collection No. 8 1/a, 6 distinct varieties . . 8 - „ Sl/b, 12 „ „ .. 15 „ „ 8 1/c, 50 plants in variety . . 55 8 1/d, 100 varieties in 12 standard 100 - ALLWOOD1I. With the Charm ft Fragrance of an Old World Garden. THE HARDY PLANT GROWS ANYWHERE AND BLOOMS FROM SPRING TO WINTER. Carriage and packing paid collections. Cultural Booklet 6d. post free. Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation fully Illustrated & Described in our Catalogue. Sent with pleasure. Collection 9 1/a, 6 distinct varieties .. .. 5 6 9 1/b, 9 „ ,', .... 7/6 9 1/c, 12 „ including 1S21 novelties 12/6 9 l/d, 25 pints., stnd. vars., our selection 21 /- 9l/e,100 „ „ „ „ 75/- 9 I/f, 6 novelties of 1922 & 1923 „ . . 21 /- When you think of Carnations you think of The leadingCarnation Raisers & Specialists in the world. DEPT. 4. Hayward's Heath, Sussex. SOW NOW to bloom in July and August- Blackmore $ LangdoiTs World renowned BEGONIA SEEDS (58 Gold Medals). DOUBLES. Non? can equal this for quality, size and Per packet lovely form and colours of flowers ... 2/6 & 5/- SINGLE. Of wonderful size and form 1/-, 2/6 & 5/- FRILLED SINGLE. A beautiful selection I/-, 2/6 & 5'- CRESTED SINGLE. Very fascinating 1/-, 2/5 & 5,'- HANGING BASKET. A grand novelty, very graceful 1/6, 2/6 & 5/- GLOXINIA Seed, mixed, in most beautiful selection of colour 1/6, 2/6 & 5/- For prices of tubers of above and other specialities, write for free catalogue and mention this paper. Twerton Hill Nurseries, BATH CU&**n?*tS%Hr2 Flower Seeds. Catalogue containing nearly 3,000 kinds, including a number of Novelties of very rare Plants, Post Free on application to THOMPSON & MORGAN, I PSW I C H. PEDIGREE PLANTS. PRIMULA OBCONICA GIGANTEA.— Our improved compact, large-flowered strain. Immense flowers, varied colours, very free, Strong young plants for present potting, 2/6 doz., 15/- ioo. MARGUERITE GUINEA GOLD.— Our new single yellow dwarf, compact, very free, real yellow. Well rooted plants, 3/- doz. GERANIUMS.— Victory (new salmon), 6/- doz. ; Crampel, 3/6 doz. ; Denmark, 3 6 doz. ; Schmidts (silver leaf, double scarlet flower.), 5/- doz. All autumn rooted. CYCLAMEN. — Our superb strain with splendid bold broad-petalled flowers. August sown transplants, 2/6 doz. ; 15/- ioo. BEGONIAS. — Gold medal strain of Doubles. Large tubers, 4/- doz. GLOXINIAS. — Finest erect-flowering strain. Large tubers, 4/- doz. All Carriage Paid. February List on request. H. H. MAW & SON, Friarwood Nurseries, P0NTEFRACT. l~ NMMMMtMMMIMIMWWIMWMMMWWMI CAMPING.— All Campers and lovers of out- door life should read " Camping," by J. Scott Moore, published I at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2; pride 9d. net; by post, lid. Vlll. THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. Garden Books PUBLISHED BY J. M. DENT & SONS, Ltd. "Precisely what many peonle who love flowers but have not studied botany have long wanted. "Spectator. NAME THIS FLOWER By GASTON BONNIER. Small Crown 8vo. js. 6d. net. A " Simple Way " of finding out the names of common plants without any previous know- ledge of botany, with 372 coloured plates representing plants to a uniform scale of one-third their natural size, and 2,715 other figures. FOOD, FRUIT & FLOWERS. Dealing first with food production and after that with decoration and flower culture. By WALTER P. WRIGHT. Illustrated. 336 pp. Cloth. Demy 8vo. 6s.net. The author is the well known gardening expert and writer, and his aim is especially to help the small gardener. AN ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOP/ED A OF GARDENING. * Everyman's Library (Reference Section, 2s. 6d. net, cloth), Library Binding, 3s. 6d. net. :. WRITE FOR LIST. 10, ALDINE HOUSE, BEDFORD STREET, W.C.2. WHICH? Which is YOUR choice ? Guaranteed Garden Seeds or Unguaranteed Garden Seeds. They cost the same to buy ; but our Guaranteed Garden Seeds MUST grow for YOU and please you or you will get them REPLACED FREELY. They double the joy and profit of your garden. More and infinitely more delicious Vegetables and so much lovelier Flowers. Just send a postcard to-day for our 164-page, illustrated FREE GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM AND GUARANTEED GARDEN SEEDS, and see for yourself. That is the good-sense way. No obligation of any sort ; but address us personally : T00G00D & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and 0 rowers of " Better Crops " Seeds only. SOUTHAMPTON. CARTERS "VECVITA- GENERAL FERTILISER. SEEDSMEN TO H.M. THE KING FERTILISERS — GARDEN AND LAWN The whole of our compounded fertilisers are based on formulae which are the outcome of years of practical experience, each of which is now so accurately hlended as to contain the correct proportion of organic and inorganic constituents necessary for the crop for which the particular manure is compounded. CARTERS COMPLETE GRASS FERTILISER (No. 1) is, as its name implies, a complete grass food ; that is to say, it contains all that is necessary for the growth of fine grasses, but it does not force or burn them. Sample Bag 1/3, 7Ib. 2/-, i4lb. 3/9, 28lb. 7/-, 56lb. 13/-, n2lb. 25 - FERTILISER (No. 6) CARTERS COMPLETE GARDEN (Veg-Vita). The formulae are based on the average requirements of plant life, as a whole, and so accurately blended as to give splendid results to those who work for a mixed display, and do not specialise in any particular branch. Sample Bag 71b. 141b. 281b. 561b. ii2lb. Price 1/3 2/6 4/9 9/- 16/6 30/- CARTERS SWEET PEA FERTILISER (No. 7) This highly concentrated fertiliser, if used in conjunction with deep cultivation, will grow Sweet Peas to show pitch. Sample Bag 71b. 141b. 281b. 561b. ii2lb. Price 1/3 2/9 5/- 9/6 ALL. CARTERS 17/6 32/6 FERTILISERS CARTERS GRASS FERTILISER CARTERS SPECIAL POTATO FERTILISER (No. 12) Ensures an increased crop with improved quality. 7lb. i4lb. 2Slb. 56lb. ii2lb. Price 19 3 6 6 6 12/- 22 6 CARTERS TOMATO FERTILISER (No. 8) A well balanced fertiliser for producing healthy growth and well finished fruit of a good flavour. Sample Bag 71b. Price . . 1/3 2/6 ARE SENT CARRIAGE 141b. 281b. 561b. U2lb. 4/9 9/- 16/6 30/- FREE. For further particulars and price of Carters Chrysanthemum, Rose and other Fertilisers see Illustrated Catalogue "Garden and Lawn." post free. JAMES CARTER & CO., raynes park, london, s.w.20. ^^J§ €k e ■ No. 2672.— Vol. LXXXVIL] [February 3, 1923. SOME NOVELTIES and RECENT INTRODUCTIONS AMONG TREES AND SHRUBS The Species and Hybrids noted in this Article are of proved Merit and in Commerce. TO name and write something about all the very many hardy trees and shrubs of recent introduction would require several issues of The Garden. All that has been attempted is to draw attention to a few of the most interesting and important. Among the Witch Hazels, Hamamelis mollis is the finest of them all in foliage and flower. It is not only the most showy, with its rich golden yellow blossoms, but these are deliciously fragrant and con- spicuously beautiful from December to February. Many readers may question the " novelty " of a plant first intro- duced in 1879, but it is still not too common in gardens. Syringa Wilsoni is a beautiful hardy Lilac from Western Szechuen, with lilac pink flowers, forming a vigorous bush 10ft. or 12ft. probably eventually more in height. Like the named varieties of Syringa vulgaris it is a good town shrub. Cistus Silver Pink is a charming hybrid Rock Rose, said to be a cross between C. crispus and C. cyprius. It was raised in the Winchester nursery of Messrs. Hillier. The clusters of silvery pink blossoms are freely produced during summer and the plant has passed the last two winters in the open with us unharmed. There are at least seven Magnolias of recent introduction : M. salicifolia, M. Wilsoni, M. officinalis, M. denudata elongata, M. Dawsoniana, M. Nicholson- iana and M. Sargentiana. Of these the first two have already proved to be most valuable additions to our gardens. M. salicifolia is a Japanese species which was first introduced to Kew in 1906, though it was five years later (191 1) before the first flowers were produced. It is a slender tree of upright habit, deciduous, producing the pure white flowers freely during April in advance of the leaves. M. Wilsoni is later in flowering, opening its fragrant blossoms during the second half of May and in early June. The pure white flowers are more or less drooping and as they have bright red stamens and carpels these will show prominently when the bushes are 6ft. or more in height, as is already the case in Cornwall. In habit it is elegant, with twiggy branches, more so than M. parviflora, which species the blossoms resemble. M. Wilsoni is a native of Western Szechuen, China, and was introduced by Mr. E. H. Wilson in 1904. Two Styrax species are deserving of special mention, S. Hemsleyanum, introduced from Szechuen by Mr. Wilson in 1900, and S. Wilsoni LILAC ROSE PANICLES OF SYRINGA WILSONI. from Western China in 1908. In habit the two form a marked contrast. S. Wilsoni has thin wiry branches, small leaves and small white flowers, produced freely on young plants less than ift. high. S. Hemsleyanum on the other hand is a vigorous, widely branched shrub or small decidu- ous tree 20ft. to 30ft. high, with prominently veined leaves 4ms. to sins, long and 2ins. to 3ms. wide, and pure white fragrant blossoms an inch across. We have had no frost of recent years severely to test the hardiness of the majority of the newer Chinese shrubs, though some we know are tender, suffering even in mild winters. S. Wilsoni is one of these, but it is a delightful plant for those not favoured with a mild climate ; it should prove a charming pot plant for a cool or un- heated greenhouse. Cuttings made from half-ripe shoots root readily in a propa- gating frame during late summer. A new hybrid Crab of outstanding merit is Pyrus Eleyi, produced from the Russian Crab, P. Niedzwetzkyana, crossed with pollen of P. spectabilis. The hybrid inherits the distinct reddish- purple hue of the mother tree in wood, leaf, flower and fruit. The blossoms, however, are richer in colour, bright vinous red, followed by dark red fruits the size of cherries. Young trees com- mence to flower early — trees at Kew in 1922 produced flowers and fruit two years after grafting. Pyrus (Sorbus) munda var. sub- arachnoidea (4323 Wilson) is a white- fruited Mountain Ash collected by Mr. Wilson in Western Szechuen during October, 1910. It forms a large shrub or small tree up to 15ft. or 20ft. high with pinnate leaves and white flowers, followed by clusters of pearly-white fruits. It is a pleasing companion to the older Pyrus (Sorbus) Vilmorini (syn. foliolosa), which has attractive rich rosy-red fruits. Pyrus Arnoldiana is a hybrid Crab which originated in the Arnold Arboretum among seedlings of the Japanese Crab, P. floribunda, the supposed pollen parent being a form of Pyrus baccata. It has larger and more richly coloured blossoms than the parent, ruby red when opening changing with age to rich rose. Another hvbrid Crab with P. floribunda as the 52 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. female parent is P. purpurea, which I first saw listed in the catalogue of Messrs. Barbier et Cie of Orleans. The pollen parent is undoubtedly P. Niedzwetzkyana, as it has the vinous red colouring which pervades the wood, foliage and leaves of that species. P. purpurea is a very attractive lawn tree with rosy-crimson blossoms followed by dark red fruits the size of Cherries. P. toringoides is a very distinct addition to the ornamental Crabs in foliage and fruit. The leaves are irregularly lobed, the fruit rich yellow freely flushed with scarlet on the sunny side. In recent years the evergreen Pyracanthas have been added to by the introduction of several very distinct shrubs from China. P. Gibbsii is even more robust than the popular P. Lalandei, forming an attractive lawn shrub, with white blossoms and scarlet fruits. The variety yun- nanensis is distinguished by the later ripening of the lighter red fruits, a valuable character, for though not quite so large I have seen the bushes full of fruits during March. The var. yunnanensis is also readily distinguished by the broad, round-ended (obovate) leaves. P. Rogers- iana was introduced by Mr. George Forrest from Yunnan in ign. The small leaves and close growth of this Pyracantha make it a very distinct shrub. There is at Kew a beautiful lawn specimen 8ft. in height and as much in diameter. The fruits vary from red to yellow, the type being regarded as the one with red fruits. Variety aurantiaca has orange and variety flava yellow fruits. Buddleia alternifolia is a widely branched and vigorous shrub, producing during June quan- tities of rich lilac-purple blossoms on the growths of the previous year, so that one cannot prune it in March as is done with B. variabilis varieties. Introduced by the late Mr. Reginald Farrer from Kansu, the dainty yet luxuriant growth of this Buddleia is in marked contrast to the vigorous shoots of B. variabilis. Potentilla fruticosa var. Farreri is a distinct dwarf form of the yellow-flowered shrubby Cinquefoil, introduced, as the name suggests, by the late Mr. Reginald Farrer. Its distinctive value for the front of the border of choice shrubs, and the rock garden, is the freedom of flowering from early summer to late autumn. Another of the late Mr. Farrer's introductions and perhaps the best known is Viburnum fragrans. It is a deciduous shrub ultimately 8ft. to ioft. high, with white or pink tinted blossoms. We shall have to give it a sheltered position for the flowers open in March, perhaps earlier in warm districts, though probably the exhibit which gained for this plant an award of merit from the R.H.S. on February 22, 1921, was opened under glass. A. O. HELIANTHEMUM UMBELLATUM In general appearance this dainty little shrub more resembles a small-leaved Rosemary than the general run of Sun Roses. It is a native of the Mediterranean region, and nearly two hundred years have elapsed since it was first introduced, but it still remains quite a rare plant. It grows about 18 ins. high and is evergreen, bearing a profuse succession of flowers in summer for several weeks. The flowers are white with a patch of yellow at the base of ■ ai b petal. Like all the Sun Roses, they are of short duration, opening in the early morn- ing and dropping before sunset, hut they make a gay shew for the time and are succeeded by a similar crop next day. It likes the sunniest possible position and a well drained soil of moderate quality, and is easily increased by cuttings. GAYEST OF WITCH HAZELS, HAMAMELIS MOLLIS. LILAC AND ORANGE SPRAYS OF BUDDLEIA ALTERNIFOLIA. A FRUITING SPRAY OF PYRACANTHA GIBBSII YUNNANENSIS. February 3, 1923. THE GARDEN. 53 ABOUT SOME OF THE BEST NEW ROSES THE Roses which are being distributed this season certainly include some of the best varieties sent out since the war. The beautiful golden Florence I.. Izzard is unquestionably the most noteworthy. It is rightly classed as a Hybrid Tea, but shews unmistakable traces of the Pernetiana race in its shiny dark green foliage. The high pointed centre, however, proclaims the Tea blood ; so does the slight but unmistakable fragrance. Mr. McGredy is to be congratulated on this glorious variety, for which there will doubtless be a big demand. Another yellow Rose of considerable import- ance is Mary Merry weather. The flowers of this variety inevitably call to mind the invaluable Lady Hillingdon, but it is considerably paler in colouring ; moreover, the buff which blends ■with the deep orange yellow of the older variety is absent. The new introduction is of stockier habit than Lady Hillingdon and a good doer. It is being distributed by Messrs. H. Merryweather and Sons, Limited, and is likely to prove a first-rate bedding Rose. Yet another beautiful variety of yellow colouring is to be found in Lucile Barker, one of Mr. Elisha Hicks' novelties, which has orange fawn blossoms shading to pale orange. This is a comparatively small Rose, but beautifully shaped. Every bud ■would make a buttonhole ! In Lady Verey, also sent out by Mr. Elisha Hicks, we have what might be called a shell pink Liberty. Rather a thin Rose, it should be admir- able for decoration indoors or for bedding. Elsie Beckwith, a novelty of Messrs. G. Beckwith and Son, has been described, not inaptly, as a carmine rose Richmond. It bears long, clean stems and •should be first-rate for cut flower, whether grown indoors or out. Mrs. Henry Bowles has beautifully formed pointed blossoms of warm rosy pink colour. The petals are slightly rolled, and it is pleasantly Tea-scented. A gold medal was awarded to Mr. W. R. Chaplin for this Rose at the last Summer Show of the National Rose Society. From this very " rosey " Rose we will turn by way of contrast to Messrs. Ben Cant's brilliant Lady Roundway, which in the bud state is heavily flushed with cardinal red. The expanded flowers are also very striking, being rich coppery orange shaded with deep rose. This is an exceedingly fragrant Rose, and if not a very shapely one — it is on the flat side — its glorious colouring largely covers the want of form. Another beautifully coloured new- comer is Souv. de R. B. Ferguson, a combination ■of tones of golden fawn and apricot and warm pink. It is a strong, healthy grower with healthy dark green foliage. Of no great size but very iragrant, it should be a really valuable bedding Rose. It was raised by Mr. Wm. Ferguson. Messrs. Ben Cant's Phcebe forms a magnificent rather square-looking blossom of primrose shading and sweet scented. It is unquestionably a fine ■exhibition variety and excellent under glass. A gold medal Rose. Mr. George Prince is responsible for the beautiful Tea Rose Muriel Wilson, which, also of lemon colouring, is also fragrant. This should be an indispensable variety for under glass. Mrs. H. L. Wettern is yet another of Mr. McGredy's production and, as might be expected ■of a Rose with such a name, is a first-rate variety. The blooms are of a particularly vivid shade of pink, high centred and shapely ; the plant is a strong, vigorous grower and it is, happily, fragrant. Dewdrop, from the same raiser, is practically shell pink in colour at opening, passing off to rose as the flower expands. Very strong growing, tree and prolific, it should be a useful bedding variety. A useful trio of dark Roses include Arthur Cook and Lady Sackville, both from Mr. McGredy, and Captain Kilbee Stuart from Messrs. Alexander Dickson and Sons. Arthur Cook is of good size and rather nice form, albeit, like many crimson Roses, rather on the flat side, wonderfully and delightfully fragrant, and has good clean foliage. A fly in the ointment ? Well, yes ! Some of the A PROVED VARIETY, ROSE MARY MERRYWEATHER blossoms have the unwanted bluish cast. Lady Sackville may be described as a freak Rose. Its blossoms, which are of medium size, are as near black as makes no matter. Before this variety, which is, by the way, fragrant, the old Prince Camille de Rohan must retire permanently from the field. Captain Kilbee Stuart is a " dark horse of another colour." This is of light, almost scarlet shade of crimson, but rich and velvety, and the foliage is on the light side. The petals are broad and shapely, and it has the old Rose scent. This is now a gold medal Rose. There are many who like rose-coloured Roses. Such will rejoice in Bessie Chaplin, which is much of the La France type but less silvery in colour. It is up to exhibition standard, but will doubtless prove a first-rate garden variety. One of Messrs. Chaplin Brothers' novelties. Messrs. Frank Cant and Co. send out Mr-. Harvey Cant, which is a fine large white variety, a little loose in the outer petals but otherwise first-rate. Very different is Westfield Star, milk white and pale yellow in the heart, reminiscent indeed of a very beautiful buttonhole Rose which is now probably out of commerce if not out of cultivation — Pauline Bersez. There is plenty of room for such shapely rather small Roses, but somehow they do not seem to " go " very well. Size is still a fetish with many. Mrs. Hornby Lewis is a Rose of ample proportions and, apparently, Souv. de la Malmaison " blood." It has good foliage and the blos- soms, which, like those of Marechal Niel, shew a tendency to" quarter," are chrome yellow in colour, delight- fully shaded. This pleasingly fra- grant variety is being distributed by Mr. Elisha Hicks. In Mr. McGredy's Mrs. Courtney Page we have a singularly attractive variety. Free blooming and of wonderful and exquisite colouring, which is a spark- ling orange cerise with bright carmine shading towards the base. This is a most distinct variety with petals of great size and substance, a model in shape and formation. It is sweet scented and without question one of the finest and most superb Roses ever raised. Awarded the Gold Medal of the National Rose Society. There are, of course, other new double Roses, but those mentioned probably include the pick. There are several new single varieties of undoubted merit. Most beautiful of all is undoubtedly Mr. W. R. Chaplin's beautifully fluted w-hite Innocence. A good doer and fairly free to flower, this is surely one of the most beautiful flowers ever raised. From pure white to deep crimson — from the saucer-shaped Innocence to the almost hooded Vesuvius of Mr. McGredy. This last, however, is very free flowering and of wonder- fully rich colouring. In form it might aptly be compared to the cupped female blossoms on a Begonia. Nur Mahal, one of the Rev. Pem- berton's novelties, is a semi-single Hybrid Musk variety which should make a handsome free bush. The colour is a deep rose, the flowers are of good size and freely produced. In colouring and form and in the white streaks which mark some of the petals this variety recalls the old Cabbage Rose. Two single Polyantha varieties are well worthy of notice. One is Messrs. Prior's Alice Amos with American Pillar colouring. This is very attrac- tive. Its weakest point is the eye, the cluster of stamens being rather meagre. The other variety in mind is Laxton's Pink Delight of that salmony rose shade we call wild rose. This is a Rose everyone should try to procure. Indoors or out, it would be difficult to use it in the wrong place. That beautiful white Wichuraiana rambler Snowflake is being placed upon the market this season by Messrs. Frank Cant. The flowers, which are pure white, are borne in large trusses. Prob- ably not all the varieties mentioned will be in commerce this season, but most will be. R. 54 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. PROGRESS WITH THE DAHLIA IT is rather too early in the season to pass in review Dahlia novelties for 1923. For the present we must be content to consider the lines upon which progress is taking place. The Star Dahlia has come into its own, and further progress is certain with this highly decorative type. The dwarf Mignon bedding Dahlias are not nearly so popular as they should be. Most gardeners nowadays grow a selection of Star or Single Dahlias to stop gaps in the middle of the herbaceous border as some of the early - flowering hardy plants go out of blossom, as well as a few tall Decorative sorts for further back. Why should not the Mignon type be grown for the front of the border, where gaps are more noticeable than elsewhere ? The Cactus Dahlia is not, and probably never will be, so free flowered as the Decoratives or as the various Single types we have been discussing, but it has improved marvellously as regards carrying its flowers erect. Some of the more decorative varieties, too, carry their blossoms clear of the foliage. May the day be near when all new varieties do ! The Collarette type is very effective, especially when the contrast between petals and " collar " is pronounced. No doubt this section is destined to become yet more popular. There is no class more generally useful than the Pompon, but there is little room here for anything absolutely distinct. The huge Decoratives so popular in Holland, of which Souv. de Gustav Douzon may be taken as the type, are not particularly favoured in this country. They are rather too coarse and flaunting for most people. An entirely new type of large-flowered Dahlia is represented by Rosella Amos, here illustrated, which might fittingly be called Chrysanthemum-flowered. This was raised by Messrs. J. Stredwick and Son of St. Leonards, who have raised so many fine Cactus varieties. It is to be distributed in May jointly by Messrs. Stredwick and Messrs. D. Prior and Sons of Colchester. It is a huge flower, quite up to the size of the large Decoratives referred to, but much less " lumpy " looking. The Preony - flowered section is yet susceptible of great improvement. Most of the varieties are too shy or too inver- tebrate to hold their heads up, and a considerable number of very beautiful sorts — considered on the merits of the individual flowers — cannot produce the effect they otherwise might because the blos- soms are not sufficiently clear of the foliage. The Miniature Pasony- flowered are a great im- provement in this respect. No doubt they have been largely obtained from Single and Star forms of excellent habit. There is, however, abundant room for the large-flowered " Paxmies," and it is to be hoped that many new varieties will soon be marketed with flowers as well displayed as on the best of the Miniatures. It is not, after all, the weight of the blossoms which weighs them down or the huge Decoratives would also be " bashful," but such is by no means the case. A New Zealand correspondent, Mr. H. Goldie of Auckland, sent us during last autumn two pictures, one of which is repro- duced herewith, of a new type of Pasony- flowered Dahlia which has originated with him. It is, as the picture shews, quill petalled, and if a race of similar character can be evolved they will, no doubt, be very popular for cut-flower work. Of their value in the garden it is impossible A NEW TYPE OF DAHLIA DAHLIA ROSELLA AMOS. to speak, but experience shews that it is possible to retain the character of the flower while per- fecting the habit of. any class of Dahlia. This first "quilled Pasony" variety the raiser describes as " straw, shaded buff and is quite striking." It was raised " from seed of a Paeony Dahlia, specially selected ; the petals are of tubular form and the stems stiff, thus making for a good florists' flower." The Camellia-flowered varieties such as Messrs. Cheat's Crimson Flag are invaluable in the garden. Very free flowering, this variety — the best of the Camellia-flowered to date — is remarkably effective when bedded, especially when associated with one or other of the soft lemon yellow Mignon varieties. Decidedly there is room for many more really good Camellia-flowered sorts. Whereas the Camellia-flowered is pre-eminently a garden form, the Miniature Cactus is above all suitable for cut flower. The white-flowered s- >rt^ are in great demand for wreath work, but white or clearly and cleanly coloured the varieties of this section are admirable for indoor decoration. Of moderate size — not too large even for table decoration and, for a double flower, exceedingly light and graceful, they may be used alone or in combination with single varieties of the Exhibition Single, Star or Mignon sections or, again, with some of the lighter and more graceful Collarettes. Every Dahlia raiser knows that the possibilities of the flower are extraordinary. Many new " breaks " in beds of seedlings, not worth saving on their own merits, would, no doubt, with careful selection, be the progenitors of strains entirely different to any now in commerce, but probably the raisers are wise not to attempt too much all at once. There is, after all, much room for improvement in some of the sections already ire commerce. February 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 55 NEW GREENHOUSE PLANTS M ESSRS. BLACK MORE AND LANGDON are, as usual, well to the fore with Begonia novelties. Among these the double fimbriata varieties are sure to find favour. Some of these remind one of the frilling of Dianthus laciniatus, but others — and these, in our judgment, are the more beautiful — are less congested in petal and retain the main characteristics of a good double camellia - flowered Begonia *but with pleasingly " gauffred " petals notched at the edges. Tubers of these are offered as well as seeds. Novelties in Basket Begonias include Golden Shower with flowers which when partly expanded are similar in colour to Rose William Allen Richard- son, Stella of Fleur de Chrysantheme type and of a rather salmony tone of red, and Venus, a magnificent white variety. The flowers have, until fully expanded, a yellowish green cast which reminds one of the so-called yellow-flowered Cherry, Prunus serrulata flore luteo pleno. Messrs. Blackraore and Langdon also offer several fine new named double Begonias. These include one of the double fimbriata type, to which reference has already been made. This is named Mignon, and the colour is rosy cerise, the habit of the plant compact, and the flower admirable. In Hilda Langdon the firm believe they have the most beautiful double Begonia ever offered, which to those who know the quality of their productions is saying a great deal. The form is perfect, the size immense — flowers 6ins. and more across are common — and the colour a beautiful rose pink, deepening to the centre. Lord Lambourne is another beauty with camellia- shaped blossoms, deep salmon orange, paling to the centre and retaining its colour when expanded ; a large and substantial flower. Other novelties include A. H. Bunney, a frilled variety of reddish cerise shading, the flowers substantial and carried erect ; Mrs. F. Bedford, a splendid blush, flushed salmon ; and Mrs. F. C. Calthrop, salmon pink, deepening to the centre and lit with golden tinting — a handsome flower, well held and very attractive. In John G. White the firm offer a fragrant double Begonia. The plant is free-flowering and of good habit, and the blossoms are blush pink in colour. Messrs. Dobbie and Co. of Edinburgh offer tubers and seeds of the new narcissiflora Begonias, which were illustrated in The Garden for October 22, 1921, page 531. Narcissus-flowered is indeed no fanciful description if we assume the Narcissus in question to be the old double Van Sion. They are offered in shades of yellow and cream and also in red shades, while seeds are also obtainable. Messrs. Sutton's frilled Begonia Enchantment and the same firm's " Duplex " Begonias are mentioned on another page, since both are only offered from seeds. Messrs. H. H. Maw and Sons of Pontefract have, in addition to their fine strain of Primula obconica, a really interesting novelty in Marguerite Guinea Gold. Not only is this very much deeper in colour than the ordinary yellow Marguerite, but it is remarkably compact in habit and very free- flowering. Among the invaluable Perpetual Carnations there are several excellent novelties this season. Of these Messrs. Allwood Brothers' Chintz, which the raisers describe as blush mauve ground flaked and speckled with claret, is quite one of the best. Many growers who do not as a rule like flaked Carnations were enthusiastic in its praise when it was exhibited in 1921. It was illustrated in The Garden for December 10, 1921, page 624. Chintz is a very happy name for the flower and describes it much better than could any description. The firm, ivory-like petals suit the colouring to perfection. Mr. Engelmann has a really good novelty in Goliath, which in the spring months often has 4ft. stems. It is a fringed and very fragrant variety with huge blossoms of a pale salmon pink colour. Another good novelty from the same raiser is Dora, which has fine substantial flowers produced in sufficient abundance to make it a profitable market sort. The colour is a clear salmon pink, just a trifle darker than the popular Lady Northcliffe. The calyx does not split. Mr. Engelmann's other two novelties are sports from well known varieties in commerce. Cream Saffron is a distinct clean shade of cream sport from Saffron. The exact shade of colour is not matched in any other variety. Orange Sunstar is, as the name would suggest, a sport from Sunstar. The colour is an attractive deep orange with a few pink stripes. British Perpetual Carnations are now quite equal to the American - raised varieties even as these latter grow across the water. With very few exceptions the American varieties are not, in Britain, nearly so good as those of British origin. WHITE BASKET BEGONIA VENUS. THE HUGE ROSY BEGONIA HILDA LANGDON. 56 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. "WHAT'S NEW" IN FLOWER SEEDS ! i MONG Messrs. Sutton's flowei seed novel- /% tics the most interesting is unquestion- / % aWy their new bedding strain of Antir- /- ■ ■% rhinum. The plants attain a height of ^ * a foot or perhaps a little less under normal conditions and, having no central spike, produce admirable bedding effects. The spikes are close-jointed, but remain spikes, which can hardly be said to be the case with the Tom Thumb varieties. White, yellow, apricot, pale pink, bright pink, buff pink, cherry pink, orange-red. and the glowing orange-scarlet with a white throat the firm call Fire King. Many readers will know the variety called Sutton's Fire King Intermediate. The bedding Fire King is a little more " orangy " than that splendid sort. Needless to say, the Reading firm is still offering a full selection of varieties in the Tom Thumb, Intermediate and Tall sections. Messrs. Sutton are making a speciality of what they have christened Duplex Begonias. The flowers have the large petals characteristic of the single types but in two or three rows. They are very distinct in appearance from the ordinary double Begonia, and will probably appeal rather to lovers of single than of double flowers. Messrs. Sutton also make a speciality of the beautiful frilled Begonia they call Enchantment, which comes true from seed. This is a golden yellow variety edged on the " frill " with bright rose. Reading is almost as famous for its Primulas as for its biscuits. This season Messrs. Sutton are offering nothing absolutely new in large- flowered Primulas, though new and reselected strains are yearly put upon the market without any " blowing of trumpets," without, indeed, any note of the fact in the catalogue. The new Star Primula Symmetry, which was so much admired last year at Vincent Square, is now offered for the first time. It is deep rose pink, almost a crimson, and the flowers are so smooth and circular as rather to make meaningless the term "star." It has, however, the light graceful habit of the Star section, and is, moreover, a very robust easy doer. " S. and S." are also offering seed of their Primula obconica Salmon ' jui en, which obtained an award of merit last Chelsea Show. It is a very beautiful and free- flowering sort with shell pink blossoms, and is quite a " new departure " with this flower. There has of late been a revival of interest in the pretty and graceful Cosmeas (Cosmos) brought about by the introduc- tion of early-flowering strains. Lateness to flower was the great drawback of the older strains, which were in other respects very desirable, both for garden decoration and cut flower. A further advance is marked thi- year. The beautiful anemone-centred doubles are this year offered by Messrs. Sutton in an early-flowering strain which will, they say, flower in ten weeks from sowing. Could anyone ask for more ? Seeds are offered in white, rose, crimson or mixed. Messrs. Barr and Sons, Covent Garden, always to the fore with seeds of hardy plants and shrubs, are this year offering seed of their magnificent Campanula persicifolia Telham Beauty with clear lavender blue flowers. Among a number of strains of choice Aquilegias (Columbines) the most noteworthy is perhaps Barr's Silver Queen, a long-spurred variety with white flowers faintly THE MANY COLOURED "JAPANESE MOUNTAIN" CHRYSANTHEMUMS. PRIMULA OBCONICA, SUTTON S SALMON QUEEN. tinged, especially on the spurs, with rosy sapphire. Seed of that hardiest of New Zealand Flaxes. Phormium tenax Powerscourt Variety, is another outstanding feature of their list. This is a fine as well as a hardy variety, the flower-spikes not seldom reaching 14ft. Primula pulverulenta Annesgrove Variety is the deeper coloured pink form to which reference has often been made in The Garden. It is at once more interesting and more vigorous than Mrs. Berkeley. Seed is also offered of Primula chionantha, one of the easiest and most beautiful of the nivalis section, in appearance something like a white P. sikkimensis. The rare Primula seclusa is also listed. Of plants of shorter duration of which seeds are offered by the Covent Garden firm, mention should be made of Statice sinuata True Blue, with rich blue flowers in place of the usual lavender, and the new Double Queen Poppies, really a very fine strain of double and semi-double " Shirleys." By the way, Messrs. Barr are offering the Shirley Foxgloves (Digitalis), a specially fine strain raised and selected, of course, by the Rev. W. Wilks. Other exceedingly interesting items are Papaver alpinum Shell Pink, said to come true from seed, and P. orientale Barr's New White. Oriental Poppies do not come true from seed, but a propor- tion usually do, and the remainder are commonly interesting and beautiful. These only represent a selection from some two hundred items of new and uncommon strains of seed. Messrs. James Carter and Co. of Raynes Park offer long-spurred Aquilegia seed selected to rose and pink shades, which for some purposes should be very desirable ; two new double Clarkias, a new crimson Cyclamen (Crimson St. George); February 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 57 a new Indian Pink (Double Fiery Scarlet), three new Gloxinias and a very fine new strain of Holly- hock. The flowers of this are not so full as with the " show " doubles, but the petals are prettily fringed and curled. Messrs. Kelway and Son of Langport, famous the world over for Delphiniums and Gladioli, are " wholesale only " as regards flower seeds, but their special strains are obtainable from reputable seedsmen throughout England, many of them in the Langport firm's own sealed packets. Mignonette Perfect Model is recommended as the best on the market for pot culture and invalu- able also outdoors. It is of sturdy, compact habit, and the huge spikes are well coloured. They also offer seed of their celebrated strain of perennial Gaillardia, certainly one of the finest in cultivation ; of their even more famous Gladioli and of their new hybrid Lupins, either mixed or in separate varieties, namely, Belle of Huish, Canary, Coronation, Effective, Langport King, Phyllis Kelway, Primrose Queen, Punchinella, Rod of Ivory and Somerset. Petunias, single and double, Pansies, Ryburgh Hybrid Poppies, Pyrethrums and Cinerarias are also offered by Messrs. Kelway, who are known as specialists in all of them. Messrs. Kelway are strictly whole- sale, but if any difficulty is experienced in obtaining their seeds they will gladly supply the name of their nearest agent. Messrs. Edward Webb and Sons of Wordsley have long been noted for their Schizanthus — Butterfly plants as some call them — and their new Giant Hybrids, containing, as they do, all shades and many combinations of colour from palest, pink to violet purple are exceedingly attrac- tive for the greenhouse and also in a sheltered place, for bedding outdoors. Some of the dwarfer strains especially are very handsome and succeed ■well bedded out. Those who have never tried this flower so might do worse than make a note of it. Among many other specialities of the Wordsley firm may be mentioned Sweet Sultans, ■which are at once beautiful, fragrant and admirable for cut flower. Messrs. Jarmans of Chard, Somerset, also have magnificent stocks of this splendid flower. Messrs. Watkins and Simpson are a firm fairly familiar to the general public because their name so often occurs in lists of plants which have received an award of merit after trial at Wisley. They ■would doubtless be better known still were they not, like Messrs. Kelway, wholesale only. Their novelties are obtainable from most seedsmen and retail nurserymen. They are, this season, sending out three new Antirrhinums. Two are dwarf varieties (nanum grandiflorum), these being Madonna, which the firm consider an improve- ment even upon their well known white sort Purity, and Radiance, of which the flowers are salmon rose, orange and terra-cotta, providing, in the garden, a rich glowing salmon red effect. The third variety is a tall one, and would be splendid for massing in shrubberies or elsewhere where stiffness is at a discount. The golden yellow central band merges gradually into the colouring of standard and lip, which is pinkish bronze. The individual flowers are fine, so are the spikes. Another interesting novelty offered by these Covent Garden wholesalers is the Japanese Mountain Single Chrysanthemum, to which reference has more than once been made by Mr. E. H. Woodall in our " Correspondence " columns. These are single and very starry and neat in appearance, and are of many colours. Clarkia elegans in its various forms is fast becoming popular as a cut flower ; indeed, the long, graceful sprays are nowadays often seen in Covent Garden market. " W. and S." offer this season a novelty called Ruby King, of ruby red colouring, which should be a very useful addition. Dahlia Stella, which might be described as a single Cactus with no twisting of the petals ; Gaillardia Dazzler, golden yellow and maroon red, and said to come almost true from seed ; Sun- beam Improved Iceland Poppies and Viscaria Tom Thumb Rosy Gem are other novelties, besides half a dozen promising new sorts of Sweet Pea. Messrs. Thompson and Morgan of I p s w i c'h, always to the fore with perennial seeds, have an attractive list of novelties, including seeds of such beautiful Lilies as L. regale and L. sulphur-gale, Harkness's new Giant Iceland Poppy Tangerine, of which the name is fairly descriptive, Downer's strain and several other new strains of perennial, Lupins now so deservedly popular. A new upright-growing Verbena called Royal Bouquet is indeed a novelty, inasmuch as the plant grows about 15ms. tall and only loins, or so across. When in bloom it makes a beautiful mass of colour, and it should be exceedingly useful for growing in pots. Those who grow the handsome tall per- ennial Toadflax known as Linaria macedonica will wish to procure L. m. speciosa Nymph, which has cream-coloured flowers, orange yellow spot on the lower lip and the characteristic glaucous foliage. Perry's Hardy Plant Farm, Enfield, offers a long list of perennial seeds of interest to all who like raising choice plants from seed. Among many uncommon plants to raise from seed we select, almost at hap- hazard, Anemone Mallen- deri, Geum Borisii x G. Mrs. Bradshaw (a fine rock garden plant), In- carvillea thalictrifolia, Iris sibirica Perry's Blue (well known as the finest of the Siberian Irises), Lilium Balfourianum and L. L. pardal-parryi and sulphur- gale, also Papaver orien- tale Lord Lambourne. M. H. Correvon of ChSne-Bourg, Geneva, specialises in seeds of alpine plants. There is no need to mention any particular " novelty," THE BEAUTIFUL AND FRAGRANT HARDY PRIMULA CHIONANTHA OFFERED BY MESSRS. BARR AND SON. SUTTON 'S EARLY DOUBLE COSMEA. 58 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. for most of the species offered are more or less uncommon and some exceedingly rare. Messrs. Blackmore and Langdon's seed novelties in Begonias are referred to elsewhere. The Bath firm also offer seeds from their magnificent Gloxinias and Cyclamens, Primroses and Del- phiniums. Messrs. John K. King and Sons of Coggeshall are large growers of flower and vegetable seeds of many kinds, but especially Sweet Peas. Of these last they have four novelties this year, namely, Advance, white, flushed rich pink, throws many duplex flowers ; Faerie Queen, salmon on a cream ground, well frilled ; Powerscourt, said to be the largest flowered, strongest growing and best lavender variety to date ; and Wild Rose, deep old rose touched with salmon orange in the standard, i Messrs. John Peed and Son of West - Norwood are offering a splendid strain of large-flowered Streptocarpus hybrids, not only mixed, but in separate colours — pink, red, purple, white, and white with purple stripe. Messrs. Peed's magnifi cent strain of Cockscomb is scarcely a novelty but it is of outstanding excellence. Messrs. Toogood and Sons, Limited, of Southampton, have several excellent novel- ties, including two new annual Asters, a new Ten-week Stock and several new Sweet Peas. Phlox Drummondii, Too- good's Salmon Queen, is perhaps the pick of the basket. This new salmon rose tint possibly pro- vides, with the crimson and white strains now so widely used, as much variety as is really neces- sary in this very charming annual. re-selection of their Champion Scarlet Runner Bean. They differentiate this from the ordinary stock by placing xxx in front of it, a sign or THE LATEST IN VEGETABLES THE most striking novelties among vege- tables this year are undoubtedly Messrs. Sutton's two new Dwarf Broad Beans, The Sutton and Sutton's Little Marvel, described (and The Sutton illustrated) in our issue for January^, page 22. In addition to these new Beans Messrs. Sutton are offering a new dwarf second-early Pea — Sutton's Sensation. The haulm only attains a height of 2ft., the pods are handsome and very profusely borne in pairs, and the plant is of robust constitution. Seven and eight are usual numbers of Peas in the pod and the flavour is excellent. The new French Bean Sutton's Premier is a brown-seeded hardy and robust variety which produces pods as large as those of Canadian Wonder, but much more quickly. It is a fine-flavoured sort and continues in bearing for an unusual length of time. Messrs. Sutton's other novelty is Capsicum Golden Spire, which, while naturally of culinary value, is highly ornamental. It should be very useful to those who wish to exhibit collec- tions of vegetables. Messrs. Webbs also have a new French Bean — New Bountiful — which is also an early, prolific and continuous bearer. The Mid- land firm are also marketing for the first time a new Potato — Webb's Renown — which is of excellent appearance and fine quality. It cooks mealy, is shapely enough for exhibition and its cropping properties, we understand, are excellent. The real worth of new varieties of Potato only time can prove. Let us hope it will be a worthy companion to the splendid Webb's Emperor Cabbage, so largely and so wisely grown by market growers. Messrs. Dobbie and Co. offer a fine exhibition Celery in Dobbie's White Queen. It was raised by a Scottish exhibitor, who has won many prizes with it at leading shows. They also offer a special 1 -«. ■ CARTERS GIANT PODDED DWARF PEA. NEW MAINCROP POTATO, WEBB S RENOWN. distinction which may not be perfectly clear to some of their teetotal customers! Messrs. Laxton Brothers of Bedford are, per- haps, best known to readers of The Garden as raisers and growers of Strawberries and other hardy fruits, but they have, actually, raised some of the best Peas now in commerce. They are this season sending out Laxton's Progress, which Messrs. Laxton consider the finest Dwarf Pea they have raised. It is a fully wrinkled Marrowfat variety, containing, as a rule, nine or ten Peas in a pod. It is earlier than the well known Lax- tonian, the pods are exceptionally dark coloured, and the Peas large and fine flavoured. The height is given as i£ft. to 2ft. Messrs. Kelways are distributing through their numerous agents Broad Bean Kelway's Upright Early Longpod. This variety is notable for the number of pods it bears at the base of the plant. The pods, even fully grown, are held erect, and the plants carry a very small amount of haulm. The Langport firm, curiously enough, also have a new dwarf French Bean which is reputed to be as fine as and earlier than Canadian Wonder. It is said to be both early and free cropping. The seeds are the colour of those of a newly burred horse chestnut and blotched with cream. In Kelway's Perfect Model the firm claim to have the finest Cucumber for exhibition yet sent out. The fruits, which reach a length of 24ms., are straight -sided and dark green in colour, and carry a beautiful bloom. Messrs. Carters of Raynes Park announce the largest podded dwarf Pea ever produced, but as they are planting as large as possible an acreage for 1924, seed is not procurable this season. As far as pods and Peas go it is as near as possible a replica of the famous exhibition Pea Quite Content, but it only attains a height of ijft. to 2ft. As the illustration shews, it is very prolific. Messrs. Carters have a new French Bean, Carter's Sunrise, said to force as well as Ne Plus Ultra, but to be far more prolific. A new Runner Bean, White Monarch, is described as a white selection from Scarlet Emperor, equally prolific and hand- some. A new Cucumber which is highly resistant to the dreaded black-spot is aptly called Consti- tution. It is a handsome fruit with a neat short neck. February 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 59 HARDY BORDER PINKS M New Varieties for this Season. R. JAMES DOUGLAS of Great Bookham, is sending out this season three excellent novelties all delight- fully fragrant. Dainty Lass is deep rose pink with a crimson centre ; Goodwood, a prettily fringed sort of soft shell pink colouring with a crimson centre ; and Rosemary a dwarf, stiff habited variety, salmon-rose, centred deep carmine. These are all worthy- additions to Mr. Douglas's already long list of sturdy, compact habited Border Pinks. There is no need to enlarge on the beauty of Mr. C. H. Herbert's more or less Perpetual-flowering Pinks. They have often been recommended in The Garden and most readers have, at any rate, some of the varieties in cultivation. Mr. Herbert is send- ing out this season the finest batch he has yet submitted and that, everyone will agree, is a great deal. These are called Bridesmaid, Fire King, Lord Larnboume, Mrs. Giffard Woolley and Red Indian. Bridesmaid is shell pink in colour with a rich salmon base. This colour is slightly suffused through the petals. It has stout stiff stems each bearing three or four flowers. Fire King is a very welcome new addition to these "Herbertii" Pinks. The flower stems are a foot or more long and are well carried and the plant is a good grower. Lord Larnboume probably considers himself honoured by the variety named after him, for its colour- ing is quite unique in Pink or Carnation. Very difficult to describe the raiser calls i t " dark cerise with a darker red base." Mrs. Giffard Woolley is surely one of the largest and handsomest Pinks yet raised. It is of a delicate salmon shade with a deeper salmon base which throws up the exquisite form of the flower. This is a free and strong grower and when cut might easily be mis- taken for a richly coloured Enchantress Carnation. Red Indian opens bright cherry red, but the ex- panded flowers the raiser describes as Indian red. They are, at any rate, rosy-crimson, with a maroon tone. This is a very free-flowering sort. The bases of the flower stems, after the flowers are cut often produce more flowers and " grass." Brides- maid, Lord Larnboume and Red Indian have each received the coveted award of merit. It is fairly safe to prophesy that Fire King and Mrs. Giffard Woolley will receive the same distinction if and when submitted to the Floral Committee. That the raisers of the splendidly floriferous Allwoodii have not been marking time their novelties for 1923 conclusively demonstrate, for Messrs. Allwood's productions are rapidly becoming flowers of quality. Whereas the first varieties sent out produced good massed effect, and little else, the varieties now coming into commerce can be used in a dinner table decoration, for instance, including choice greenhouse flowers, without looking ill bred or out of place. The novelties are Alfred, pure white — this should entirely supersede Harold ; Arthur, a greatly improved Ruby ; Barbara, rich crimson, fully double ; Dickon, bright centred dark maroon ; Edith, white with a violet eye ; Matty, semi-double, fringed reddish cerise, with NEW PINK (HERBERTII) RED INDIAN. maroon eye ; Robin, double deep brick red ; and Sybil, flesh pink, semi-double, with the smooth solid petal of a Carnation. Robin has a specially fine, erect and sturdy habit of growth. Messrs. Maurice Prichard and Son of Christ- church have been working on entirely different lines from Mr. Herbert, Mr. Douglas or Messrs. Allwood. It is, indeed, singularly fortunate that four firms should simultaneously be working on this valuable plant from quite different angles. Some of the newest of Messrs. Prichard's varieties are mentioned below. Donnizetti is a splendid flat shapely single variety of vivid rosy-red colouring with a maroon eye. Gen. Freyburg, V.C., is a double variety with deep carmine flowers 3ms. across. Magnificence is a fine double white with chocolate markings. Mozart is another vivid rosy-red single variety, small flowered, but very free and lasting long in blossom. B. O. Prichard is a fine double rose self, and Ruy Bias a striking single red variety with a deeper eye. The old florists who, a generation ago, worked so long and so hard to improve the markings of the laced and fancy Pinks, mostly of delicate con- stitution, would, indeed, open their eyes in wonder could they see the flowers we admire to-day. THE ASTILBES WHILE it requires a little stretch of the imagination to picture these plants as possible future rivals to such old border favourites- as Delphiniums, Lupins, Phloxes,, etc., they are unquestionably some of the finest summer and early autumn plants we have, and, unless I am quite mistaken, are becoming increas- ingly popular year by year, as their possibilities- for the decoration of the flower garden are realised. Among other claims to recognition are two which stand out prominently, namely, their ease of culture and their gracefulness when in flower. Another, and perhaps hardly less worthy point, is the adaptability of the plants, both as regards soil and position, for although, like many other plants, they will, naturally, respond to a compost made to their liking, they will grow in any good garden soil. \t. Planting may be done at any time from; autumn onwards, during favourable weather, until1 early spring, so that the present time is a suitable one for anyone wishing to commence their culture. In selecting a place for a group or bed of them other than the herbaceous quarters, an ideal spot may often be found by a pond or streamside, and it matters not in the least if a considerable amount of shade has to be reckoned with ; indeed, such is advantageous if it is the midday sun which is shut off. Such a position as here suggested is nearly always a cool one for the roots of plants,, and that is one thing above all others for which the Astilbes are grateful. I have heard the remark that the range of colour of these plants is too- limited, but, personally, I cannot see why it should affect their popularity. I ask, Would the Del- phinium occupy its proud place to-day had it given us a host of tones ? Where it is necessary to have something in flower in the bed or border devoted to Astilbes early in the season, various bulbs may be used, or a groundwork of Polyanthas or Myosotis offers itself, and, should an additional- display be required with the plumes of the Astilbes, some of the hardy Liliums are useful. When massed in a bold bed by waterside the various toned Japanese Maples associate very pleasingly with them, so do a few plants of such a decorative Grass as Eulalia (Miscanthus) japonicus zebrina. The following are all good sorts, and, when well grown, will add distinction to any suitable site. It should be borne in mind that the heights of the several varieties may vary considerably according to soil and season, but those given may be accepted as a fair guide. Ceres, pink with lilac tone . Brunhilde, cream pink Gloria, rose toned pink Krierahilde, salmon pink Princess Mary, rosy crimson . Pink Pearl, pale pink . . Rutilans, rose carmine Salmon Queen, salmon pink . Siegfried, rosy salmon Of the taller-growing ones : America, rosy mauve. . Davidii, purplish ... Grandis, white Grandis rosea magnifica Gruno, salmon pink . . Salland, reddish tone. . Feet. 2J-3 2-3 2-3 3 5 4 . . 5-6 Henry Turner- 60 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. CORRESPONDENCE DOUBLE WALLFLOWERS. ■DEMARKING to a kindly Dutch hotel keeper that I was going on to Leeuwarden, he burst out, " Ah, Leeuwarden, I like Leeuwarden — my mother came from Leeuwarden," and my heart warmed to him at once. When I read Mr. Arnott's interesting notes on the above and his reference to the fact that they were only raised from cuttings, my heart again warmed, and I was carried back fifty years. After long years spent in business in a smoky Lancashire town, where not even grass could live, my mother, a townswoman, coming here, broken in health, plunged into all the delights of cottage gardening, striking cuttings, raising seeds, dividing all the old-fashioned things and so from childhood I have loved the plants kept for us by the mothers of the world, who, tired and sick of the troubles of life, have turned out into the garden for a change and forgot their troubles, or who, to retain some plant planted or cherished by a late mother, made a few cuttings or divided the old plant lest it also passed away. I retain an old Polyanthus, a relic, kept by con- tinuous division, of a variety brought into this county by a young bride four generations ago — a piece of a mother's favourite — and kept in existence by her garden-loving descendants. The old double Wallflowers, therefore, appeal to me. I used to have a number of sorts, but am now down to the two double yellows mentioned and the old double red. I have now lost the old double black-red which used to be grown in the south-west under the appalling name o) Bloody Warrior. — J. Stormonth, Kirkbride, Carlisle. SOME EARLY SPRING FLOWERS. AMONG the earlier Snowdrops, Galanthus byzantinus was the first to shew flower here this season, from seeds kindly sent me several years ago by Mr. E. H. Woodall from Nice. It is a fine broad-leaved stately plant. G. cilicicus closely followed it, and then a beautiful early form of G. IkariEe which came to me from Mr. E. A. Bowles' garden. G. Alleni, from the same source, will not be out for another week or two. This is one of the finest and most vigorous of all here, and my stock of it, now quite an important one, emanated from the gift of one bulb. From seed of G. Fosteri, too, crossed with the pollen of G. Whittallii, is now flowering what is an obviously true hybrid between the two parents. Also in bloom are several selections of G. Whittallii, one with leaves nearly as broad as a Tulip, " spotted " here growing among others by that keen lover of Snowdrops and good friend of mine, the late Mr. F. W. Harvey, some time editor of The Garden. Eranthis hyemalis (that little hors d'ceuvre of the garden that whets one's appetite for the spring feast) has been out for a fortnight, Iris Histrio a week, and on trying for the first time, I find that I. reticulata will stand very gentle forcing, and it is in flower to-day {January 16) in pans, fragrant and delightful in the house. — F. Herbert Chapman, Rye. MESEMBRYANTHEMUMS OUTDOORS. T HAVE read the article signed " Z " in your issue of January 13, and I feel that I must answer the questions asked therein by him. My garden is in a very favoured situation near Plymouth, hanging over an estuary, and is certainly one of the favoured places. I am growing here most of the succulents, and I have quantities of the small Mesembryanthemums growing in the open, on some rocks ; they seem to do perfectly, and all varieties that I have tried (they are very many) succeed. I have also a large variety of Agaves, Aloes, Cotyledons, etc. I quite agree with his praise of Olearia semi- dentata, and O. chatamica is nearly as beautiful. I have Prostanthera rotundifolia, but not violacea, as, so far, I have not been able to obtain it. Again I have been following the same lines as " Z " in growing the " greenhouse " LEUCOJUM NICAENSE AT SCAMPSTON HALL Rhododendrons — Sesterianum, Countess of Had- dington, Lady A. Fitzwilliam, Dalhousire, Nuttallii, Lindleyanum, and many other of the tender ones — which have all flourished for several winters in the open, without any protection. I shah be glad to shew my collection to " Z " if he should ever be down in this country, and to answer any questions that he may wish. — William Arkwright, Wembury, Plymouth. ARISTEA CORYMBOSA. T WAS greatly interested in the note " A Quaint Iridaceous Plant," described on page 652 in your issue for December 23, 1922. This quaint and beautiful old-fashioned plant was well known to me when I commenced gardening. Although the pale blue flowers were rather fugitive individu- ally, they were produced in succession over a con- siderable period on old plants. The latter had a clear stem rising from the pot, branching on the top and forming a very bushy low standard, densely covered with short light green leaves. At the time I speak of it was known as Witsenia corymbosa, the name given to it by Ker in the " Botanical Magazine," t. 895. It was also figured in " Lod- dige's Botanical Cabinet," t. 254. Several names have been given to it by different authors, and the late Mr. J. G. Baker named it Nivenia corymbosa, because it and Aristea fruticosa differed from all the other known species in having a shrubby stem. The plant was of easy cultivation and never tailed to flower every succeeding year. During the growing period it was kept warm, but cool and dry in winter. — Hortulanus. THE NICE SNOWFLAKE. rPHIS pretty picture of a potful of the little- known Leucojum nicaense shews how amenable this bulb is to cold frame treatment. Mr. St. Quintin of Scampston Hall, Yorkshire, received one bulb of this dainty plant that had been collected near Nice five years ago, and in that period it has increased to a potful. What it needs absolutely is a dry, warm rest during the summer. No water should be allowed to louch it during the months of July, August and September, but given that necessary- dry rest there is no difficulty in its culture. Being quite hardy it needs no heat in .winter but it does not like being drowned by con- stant rains, so that the shelter of a frame is desirable. Flowering in spring about the same time as the Vernal Gentian, I can imagine nothing prettier than the contrast these two gems make when shewn together. On the hills at the back of Nice, where it grows, it flowers the third week in April most abundantly, but the hot suns burn up the flower too quickly. Lucky for the plant! as, if it were in flower for any length of time, it would long ago have been gathered or dug up ! — E. H. Woodall. - SHRUBS FOR TOWN GARDENS. TT is interesting to read iu The Garden from time to time of shrubs that flower at Aldenham House, Munstead Wood, and at other gardens in the South of England. How we Northern shrub lovers envy the atmosphere and climatic conditions which would enable us to provide such displays. For some time my tent has been pitched in a large Yorkshire city where injurious fumes always contaminate the atmosphere, so that the balance is heavily weighted against healthy vegetation. Yet in spite of this there are many enthusiastic gardeners here, men and women. Almost every resident in the suburbs is anxious that his garden shall be at once a credit and an inspiration. Having proved the value of certain beautiful hardy flowering shrubs for town gardens, I thought my experience might be of interest to readers of The Garden who dwell in similar situations. One of the earliest plants to flower is the lovely yellow Jasmine, Jasminum nudiflorum. The bright yellow blossoms open in January or February, and at that dark season afford the greatest pleasure. I find that any ordinary soil will yield adequate sustenance, February 3, 1923] THE GARDEN. 61 and that the best position in which to plant is at the base of a south or west wall. The shrub which blooms next in order of time is Rhododen- dron praccox. This delightful kind should be in every town garden. My bushes are a yard high, and to preserve the delicate pink hue of their flowers I have planted them among some well branched specimens of Prunus Pissardi. When planting Rhododendron praecox it is beneficial to incorporate a good dressing of leaf-mould with the soil. The genus Ribes is the next to provide a floral feast. It would appear that our " coal- measures " soil is conducive to the formation in this genus of vigorous and floriferous growth. The bushes provide a picture of perfect health, and they never fail to bloom. The only attention I ever give is to remove old and weak shoots immediately after flowering. I have three sorts in my collection, and all of them bloom in April and May. The red (R. sanguineum) is the most suitable because its flowers do not reveal the presence of soot so readily as the white variety (R. sanguineum album) or the yellow species (R. aureum). Several of the Barberries (Berberis species) succeed here, and they open at the end of May or early June. I should give the palm to B. stenophylla, for, in my judgment, the garden is never more beautiful than when the pendulous branches of this gorgeous shrub are densely hung with bright yellow flowers. Darwinii and vulgaris both justify their place in a northern collection. I never prune the shrubs save to remove dead wood, and they grow in ordinary soil. Perhaps the most popular' and universal shrub here is the Lilac. It is to be found in practically every garden, and makes a brave shew in early June. In my own collection I have, in addition to the type (Syringa vulgaris), Mme. Lemoine (double white) and Souvenir de L. Spath (deep purplish red). Of the two latter I would speak in terms of highest praise. To attain the best results Lilacs must be grown in good soil and have the THE FERNS IN THEIR STRANGE " CLOCHES. benefit of full exposure to sunlight. — Geo. H. Copley, Leeds. A BEAUTIFUL PRIMULA. J ENCLOSE a photo- graph of Primula sphrerocephala, taken on September 29 last year, which might interest your readers. The plant bloomed well on into October till spoiled by the frost. The seeds were sown in March last in pans and pricked out later in a damp, shady spot. They should be treated as biennials, but mine look like flowering again this year. — M. J. Wolseley. [P. sphrerocephala is a violet coloured species, hailing from China, but obviously closely related to the beautiful P. Mooreana and others of the " capitata " kin. — Ed.] FERN SPORES IN GARDEN SOIL. T WONDER how many readers of The Garden have seen Ferns growing inside bottles thrust into the ground upside down. In a cottage garden here are some sixty " Camp Coffee " bottles used as edging to a path, and most of them have Ferns growing from the soil forced up into the neck of the bottle. The owner tells me the bottles have been there about five or six years, and probably the Ferns are now at their best. I was allowed to remove four bottles to be photographed and enclose a print. The Fern in the bottle on the left is the common Ribbon Fern, Pteris serrulata, and the others appear to be the Soft Shield Fern. I imagine that pot Ferns have been stood on the spot in the summer and shed their spores, but it must have been a long time ago, as the present occu- pier has been in the cottage for a good many years and says they have never stood Ferns there. I have read that this may be expected to happen any- where if a glass jar is inverted in the soil, but have never before seen it. — H. C. Wood, Lingfield. ' ' CODDLING ' ' ALPINES . AX article entitled "The Coddling of Alpines — a Warning to Rock Gardeners," appeared recently in the Times. The writer — presumably an expert — condemns in no measured terms the use of glass protection for the more delicate kinds. I am far from being an expert rock gardener, but I certainly am an enthusiast, and this article has caused me a certain amount of bewilderment as, apart from the almost universal recommendation of the practice by all writers, my own limited experience has found it most valuable. I have certainly found none of the spotty appearance attributed by the writer to the use of these " silly sanatoria." On the contrarv, to take one instance A COLONY OF PRIMULA SPH/EROCEPHALA. only, those of my Kabschia Saxifrages which I have thus protected are not only vividly healthy, but shew great promise of bloom, while those not so sheltered look far from happy after the drenching rains of the last few weeks. I venture to encroach on your good nature with this somewhat lengthy epistle as I think the subject might be of interest to many of your readers, and your views would certainly be most welcome to a tyro like myself. — " Cotswold." [Most readers would probably agree that the building of " sanatoria " in the rock garden should be kept to a minimum, but undoubtedly a certain amount of protection is necessary for woolly foliaged plants, such as many Androsaces, at any rate in the neighbourhood of manufacturing areas. From a cultural point of view there is no possible objection to such " sanatoria " since most alpines do splendidly under glass in winter and early spring, but few people like their rock gardens to look like the Mappin Terraces at the Zoological Gardens or worse ! — Ed.] LITHOSPERMUM ROSM ARINIFOLRJM . THE winter so far being mild, we have enjoyed an unusually good shew of blossom on this gorgeous species, whose deep azure flowers seem to be stained with the magic colour of its own native home of Capri. Given a sheltered, sunny position, L. rosmarinifolium will stand consider- able frost with impunity, and although some have difficulty in satisfying it, the plant grows away here with the vigour of a prostrate Lavender, to which, in foliage and habit, it bears no little resemblance. It likes best a free, even stony, root-run, such as the top of a low retaining wall might afford, and a few lumps of old mortar are appreciated. The flowering season varies a good deal in open-ground plants, this being governed by the weather to great extent. As a rule, how- ever, we expect the first blooms to open in late autumn, and a succession is usually maintained (omitting severe spells) until February or later. This is a first-rate cold-house plant. Propagation is very easily effected by cuttings struck about midsummer. — N. Wales. 62 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. General Work.— In the ordinary course of events we may expect better weather and a gradual return to brighter and longer days, so it is essential for us to push on with the preparation of all vacant ground for future crops. Weeds are beginning to push up, and, where possible, they should be dug into the soil and on no account be allowed to produce flowers. Pea sticks can be prepared, and " seed " Potatoes for the main crop spread over the floor of a cool shed, where they will form short- jointed growths, and on wet days the ware or kitchen Potatoes can be looked over for diseased tubers, while other vegetables in store may also be examined. The Flower Garden. Climbing Plants. — In many gardens climbing plants are quite a feature and although often it is a good plan to allow them to grow unchecked, specimens on or near the dwelling-house will need attention. Wistarias and such like should be overhauled and any weak growths removed. Where a climber is intended to cover a certain area, a few young shoots should be retained near the base whenever possible, eventually to take the place of any worn out branches or dead wood. Here at Castleford, trees of useless varieties of Apples and Pears have been employed for supports of the various forms of Vitis, Lonicera and Clematis, especially those of the montana type. The climbers have in most instances covered the trees, and one can now see the plants at their best. Solanum crispum, S. jasminoides and Polygonum baldschu- anicum, are also suitable for this purpose. When planting climbers at the base of useless trees, a portion of the soil should be taken out and replaced with a mixture of loam and leaf-mould or good garden earth. Rambler Roses. — Roses of the Dorothy Perkins type should now be overhauled if the work was not done immediately after the flowering season, cutting out the old wood and tying in the growths produced last summer. Replace decayed poles or arches and use good quality tarred twine. These remarks are important because it is nothing short of a calamity when poles and twine give way just as the plants are in bloom. Old and worn out specimen plants should be replaced as the work proceeds, and I can strongly recommend Scarlet Climber; it is one of the finest Pillar Roses in commerce. Fruit Under Glass. The Orchard House. — This structure generally accommodates fruit trees growing in pots, perhaps in addition to a few permanent trees such as Peaches and Nectarines growing on the sides of the house. The latter should be pruned and cleansed and the trees in pots should also be dealt with in like manner. The pruning of all trees should now be completed. With pot trees it is a great mistake to overcrowd the shoots or to leave the growths of Peaches too long unless thev are needed for the extension of the tree. As a rule each growth can be cut back to within 6ins. of its base but always prune to a leaf bud. Cherries, Plums and Figs are often grown in pots, also a few Apples. The pots should be plunged nearlv to the rims and the roots must alwavs be kept well supplied with water. Admit air freely. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Small Bush Fruits.— The pruning of these trees should now be finished and when the operation is completed lightly fork over the ground and give a mulching of manure. Red and White Currants should be pruned on the spur system, cutting back the side shoots to two or three buds, and allowing the leading growths 6ins. or 8ijis. extension. Branches occasionally decay, and where this has happened a new shoot should be retained to take its place. The pruning of Black Currants consists of thinning out the old wood, leaving the strong young growth of last season. Old neglected trees may be rejuvenated by cutting all the branches near the ground level. New shoots will spring up from the base and form the fruiting wood next year. Goose- berries should be well thinned to allow light and air to enter the centre of the bushes and also to permit the fruit to be gathered with ease. If possible the Gooseberry should be grown on a single stem about 8ins. in length, and when pruning, low-lying branches must be removed in their entirety. T. W. Briscoe (Gardener to W. R. Lvsaght, Esq.) Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Leeks require a long period of growth for their full development, so the seed should be sown as soon as weather conditions will permit. Sow in a sheltered corner in rich soil, either broadcast or in lines oins. apart; as the crop will be planted out later on, the seed bed need not occupy much space. Brussels Sprouts.— When these are sown in autumn they turn in rather early for general purposes, and when sown out of doors in spring they often fail to attain full size. It is advisable therefore to sow in boxes in a cool house, the seed- lings to be in due course pricked out into a cold frame. Solidity is one of the best varieties. Kidney Beans. — Where these are required early a sowing should be made in a warm house in 9in. or ioin. pots, placing four or five seeds in a pot. Use a fairly rich soil and leave room in the pots for an inch or so of top-dressing later on. Use a dwarf variety such as Ne Plus Ultra. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Planting. — If the planting of fruit trees or bushes was not undertaken in the autumn, the work should be done now, whenever climatic conditions will permit. Examine the roots and cut away any parts that are damaged or diseased and shorten any bare roots of undue length. See that the bottom of the pit is level or slightly convex rather than concave, spread out the roots and tread the soil firm as the nlling-in of the pit proceeds. Beware of planting too deeply ; the aim should be to keep the roots near the surface. Fruit trees in the open should be staked promptly and wall trees should be nailed into position. Transplanting Young Bushes.— Where cuttings of Gooseberries or Currants were inserted two years ago these should now carefully be lifted and transplanted into nursery lines about 2ft. apart, allowing i8ins. between the plants in the line. The Flower Garden. Sweet Peas. — The seeds should be sown during the course of the week. Some cultivators sow in small pots, but excellent results are obtained bv sowing in ordinary propagating boxes. Maiden loam with a little old hot-bed manure forms an excellent compost ; pass the whole through a Jin. sieve and place the rough portion in the bottom of the boxes. Sow in fines 2ins. apart allowing an inch between each seed in the lines ; drop the seeds into holes barely iin. deep formed by the aid of the forefinger or a blunt wooden peg'. Place the boxes in a moderately warm house till germination takes place. The utility of chipping the seeds is a debatable subject. I never practise it and have had no cause to complain of results. The purple and lavender shades germinate least satis- factorily on the whole. East Lothian Stocks.— If not alreadv done, seed of these useful plants should be sown without delay. Ageratum and Lobelia may also be raised from seed now. An intermediate temperature is suitable for germinating all the foregoing. Cover the boxes with sheets of glass or with newspapers to prevent too rapid evaporation. Fruit Under Glass. Early Vines which have made about a foot of growth should have the shoots only slightly tied down at first as they are very easily broken or heeled off. The afternoon of a sunny dav is the best time for undertaking this work as the shoots are then in a more or less flaccid condition. Late Vines which should now be started should have a temperature of 450 at night, with a rise of from 50 to 10° during the dav, the latter figure being for a spell of sunshine." Spray the rods gently with lukewarm water morning and afternoon. Cucumbers. — If a sowing is made now the subsequent plants will begin to bear early in summer. Sow singly in 3m. pots only partially filled with fairly rich soil and plunge in bottom heat. A minimum temperature of 60° will suffice. I.ockie's Perfection is an excellent variety. The Shrubbery. Planting. — Advantage should be taken of open weather to carry through this operation. In addition to dwarf shrubs, such as Hvpericums and Ericas the front of the border or bed may be furnished with such plants as Funkias, Hellebores and Saxifraga peltata. Chas. Comfort. (Formerly Head Gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian.) GREENHOUSEj AND CONSERVATORY. Calceolarias of the large-flowered herbaceous section sown last August should now be ready for potting on. The plants enjoy a rich compost, to which some dried cow-manure or old mushroom bed manure should be added. After potting, the plants should be kept close for a few days until the roots get a hold of the new compost. Afterwards they should be kept as cool as possible, with ample ventilation according to the weather conditions. These plants are very subject to attack by green fly, but this pest may be prevented by frequent fumigation. Calceolarias of the shrubby section, as represented by C. Clibrani and C. Allardii, propagated by cuttings last autumn, should now be potted on. These plants can do with a slightly heavier compost and firmer potting han the herbaceous section. Calceolaria integrifolia (syn. C. rugosa) is an old garden plant which is worthy of more genera] cultivation for the conservatory, as it will make a fine large specimen if potted on into Sin. or ioin. pots. It also makes a fine specimen if planted out in a bed or border in an unheated house. This species is hardy outdoors in South Devon and Cornwall. Plants propagated from cuttings last season should now get a shift into large pots, and are best grown in a perfectly cool house. Calceolaria Burbidgei is a fine kind fox autumn and winter flowering. Plants rooted from cuttings next month will make good plants for the stages if stopped several times and grown on into 7in. pots. Last year's plants if potted on into ioin. pots will make large specimens 6ft. or 7ft. high. Erica melanthera has now been in flower for several weeks. This South African species is one of the largest growing and easiest of our greenhouse Heaths, for if potted on into ioin. pots it soon makes large specimens from 4ft. to 6ft. high. On the other hand, it can be grown and flowered with wonderful freedom in sin. pots. It is one of the easiest of greenhouse Ericas to propagate from half-ripened twiggy growths. These should be about 2ins. in length and inserted in pots of fine sandy peat. The cutting pots should be half filled with crocks and the compost rammed very firm, covering the top of the compost with clean sharp silver sand. The cuttings should be well watered in with a fine-rosed watering can, and when the pots have drained they should be stood under bell-glasses in a cool house. The cuttings root more quickly if they are stood in a case with slight bottom-heat, but the house otherwise cool. All the soft-wooded winter- flowering Ericas may be propagated in this way at this season or as soon as suitable cuttings can be obtained. Sweet Peas sown in pots last autumn and wintered in cold frames should now be ready for transferring to their flowering pots, which may be Sin. or ioin. in size. The compost should consist of good mellow loam pulled up roughly, with the addition of some old mushroom-bed manure, also some soot and a 6in. potful of fine bone- meal to every bushel of soil. The plants should be potted fairly firm and almost needless to say, in' giving such a large shift — usually from sin. pots — watering must be very carefully done until the new compost is well filled with roots. When well rooted and growing freely these plants eniov plenty of water, and may be fed twice a week with diluted liquid manure and soot-water, giving guano occasionally for a change. The plants must have a cool, airy house and be given plenty of air without draughts on all favourable occasions. They should as they require it be kept secured to neat supports. Tuberous-rooted Begonias.— If not already done, seed should be sown, watering the seed pots or pans and allowing them to drain for several hours before sowing. The dust-like seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil. If the seed- pans are covered wtth a piece of glass, they will not require any watering until the seeds have germinated. If the plants are well grown, the strongest of them should flower well during the autumn and make a good succession to the plants grown from dry tubers. After selecting what is required for growing on in pots, the rest of the seedlings, after being hardened off, should be planted out during June, when they will make good tubers for next year. A batch of dry tubers may now be selected and started into growth in a warm house, laying them out in shallow boxes with leaf-soil and sand, or they may be put directly into small pots, watering them carefully until they start into growth. J. Coutts. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. February 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. IX. |A| V^ W is the time to make enquiries for Spring ^Planting of MERRYWEATHER S FRUIT TREES THE DAMSON A GOOD CROPPER : THE MERRYWEATHER DAMSON. Fruit reduced half natural size. Advice and quotations free. Send for Catalogue, post free on application. FOR PR.OFIT IS THE " MERRYWEATHER." DAMSON - Merryweather.— (F.C.C., R.H.S., 1913). This has caused quite a revolution in Damson growing, the growth is very similar, and as vigorous as Victoria Plum. Unlike all other Damsons it commences to fruit as soon as the tree is two or three years old. The fruit is the most wonderful feature, on account of its enormous size. They could readily be mistaken for a late Plum, until tasted, when, although the size is so much above that of the largest Damson grown, the true flavour of the Damson is retained. We believe there is a large future for this introduction, and, like Bramley's Seedling amongst the Apples and Victoria amongst the Plum, MUST be in every orchard or fruit garden in the country. PRICE : Maidens, 2/6 each.l Bushes and Pyramids, 3/-, 4/-, and 5/- each. Half Standards, 4/-, 5/- and 7/6 each. Standards, 5/6, 6/-, 7/- and 10/6 each. Dwarf Fan Trained, 6/-, 7/6 and 10/6 each. Espalier Horizontal Trained, 3 tiers, 7/6, 4 and 5 tiers, 10/6 each. Single Cordons, upright, 3/6, 5/- and 7/6 each, an ideal Cordon fruit. Fruit growers should not miss planting CURRANT SOUTHWELL RED It flowers very late, and so escapes late frosts. Long bunches of bright shining red berries are formed, the individual berries being very large and uniform in size. When gathered it has a very fine appearance and commands the top price in the market. Price 8d. each; 7/- per doz. Extra strong, 1/- each; 10/- per doz. LET US HELP YOU. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, Ltd., Southwell, Notts. PEEDS' SEEDS As grown IN THE ROYAL PARKS for the past 15 Years. 1923 CATALOGUE NOW READY Post Free on application JOHN PEED & SON Seedsmen & Nurserymen to H.M. The King WEST NORWOOD, LONDON. DOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO., Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RGH. Selected DUTCH BULBS, ROSES g PERENNIAL PLANTS FOR SPRING PLANTING. Descriptive Catalogue free on application. Delivery carriage paid. No Charge for Packing. JOHN B. VAN DER SCHOOT THE OLD-ESTABLISHED BULB FARMS (Own Bulb Farms over 400 Acres) HILLEGOM, HOLLAND ^rcisJus^KYllegom. VEGETABLE SEED COLLECTIONS FROM 5/ UPWARDS SOW SWEET PEA COLLECTIONS FROM 1/6 UPWARDS SEEDS WINNERS OF SO GUINEA CHALLENGE CUP AT LEICESTER SHOW, 1922. GARDEN SEED CATALOGUE Post Free on Application. JOHN K. KING & SONS, Ltd., SEED GROWERS TO H.M. THE KING, COGGESHALL, ESSEX. ESTABLISHED 1793. GLADIOLI. EXCELLENT QUALITY AND MODERATE PRICES. Descriptive List of Gladioli, Liliums. Begonias, etc., post free on application. 100 Gladioli, in 10 distinct named varieties, .. 8/6 10 >, „ „ .- 4/9 50 100 Gladioli, in the finest mixture, 50 6/6 3/9 ALL Carriage Paid. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. WILLIAM HELPS, Bulb Merchant, 11, Beechfield Rd., London, N.4 THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. I*"" W. G. SMITH & CO., Limited, SOLE MANUFACTURERS Patent Metallic Non-Conducting Glass-houses VICTORIA WORKS, BURY ST. EDMUNDS. 1 If your Wood Green- house is decayed, re- place it with one of our up-to-date PATENT METALLIC NON-CONDUCTING GLASS-HOUSES. These Metallic Houses are the very best ever made. Much lighter, neater, stronger than wood. Practically in- destructible. Cost of upkeep practically nil and nothing to get out of order. Sixty Years' Experience in Glass-house Construction. CATALOGUES, PLANS, AND ESTIMATES ON APPLICATION. ^ jLiijwMj.il _»^w ^.^1 imnjiiAUHW-11*'1 **>***"" ■'rii»r'^»*^i»^Tiiii<<»wr^'iii'«i*>^rwMw»ww>iiw»w Gracchus, with primrose standards and falls veined and -haded purple. Prospero was new a little over two years ago and lias pale lavender standard and deep red purple falls with paler margin. Others are Iris King, Maori King and Robert Burns. The last named and all the others except Prospero, perhaps, can also be obtained from Messrs. Barr and Sons. King Street, Covent Garden, London. The six can be selected from the above ten, for they are all good. UNSATISFACTORY BORDER (M. F., Cheshire).— The soil is poor, as our correspondent says. About three parts of it consists of fine sand, with some small stones in it. The small creatures described are most Likely springtails, which may feed on decayed roots, but they are not credited with eating and killing plants. They are often present in similarly sheltered places, even among window plants and in hothouses. Thev infest such places, simply for the sake of shelter. The Privet hedge and the eastern aspect are the chief sources of trouble. Tt is a question of light chiefly. The trenching and manuring will improve the soil. The lime may have deteriorated by becoming air slaked, but it will be less caustic and uol waste the vegetable matter in the soil so much. The hedge should be kept down to a height of 4ft. and pruned twice a year. Delphiniums and Lupins should succeed because they are tall, and Campanulas succeed in shade ; but Antirrhinums and Nepeta require longer sunshine than the morning sun can give them to flower well, and they should be planted furthest awav from the hedge. About 4oz. of lime to the square yard will l>«- enough for a sandy soil. It will sweeten the" soil and drive away or kill springtails and similar creatures. They had dried up and disappeared from the soil sent. THE CAPE GOOSEBERRY (North Devon).— Seeds of the fane Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) may be obtained from Messrs. Sutton and Sons, Reading, or from Messrs. Ryder, Limited, St. Albans, who catalogue it under its synonym P. edulis. While it is not hardy in this country, there are no difficulties attendant on its cultivation, and we have seen it fruiting abundantly in North Cornwall. The method followed was to sow seeds in gentle heat towards the end of February. Prick otf the seedlings in small pots of hafy, sandy soil, keeping the seedlings as cool as possible till the beginning ol May, when they were planted out of doors in an open, sunny position, allowing a space of 3ft. from plant to plant. No thinning of the shoots was practised, but the plants were allowed to grow naturally. In this way they fruited Ireely until the late autumn frosts killed the plants. TREES AND SHRUBS. FLOWERING SHRUBS FOR NORTH-EAST FRONT (E., Suffolk). — Forsythia speetabilis, Philadelphia Lemoinei erectus, P. microphyllus, p. Virginal. Hypericum calycinum, Kerria japonica H. pi., Hydrangea arboreseens grandi flora, Dicrvilla Eva Rathke, Colutea aTborescens, Ruddleia variabilis, Cytisus scoparius, Potentilla fruticosa, Spirsea Menziesii and var. triumphans, S. japonica and var. Anthony Waterer. Both Jasminum nudiflorum and J. officinale would be suitable for the porch. Being difficult to root from cuttings, Rosa Moyesii is budded; the alternative method of propagation is by layering. In raising from seeds few of the seedlings produce the wonderful lurid dark red flowers. SHRUBS FOR BANK TO HIDE WALL (W. M., Cheltenham). — Back row: Berberis stenophylla, B. Darwinii, Cistus laurifolius, Escallonia langleyensis and E. Philippiana. For the front, plant Berberis Aquifolium, Hypericum calycinum, Olearia Haastii, Veronica Traversii, Ulex europaeus fl. pi. (Double Gorse), with, possibly, Lavender and Rosemary. CLIMBING PLANTS FOR WALL ots in a cool greenhouse, but those with long and thick fleshy roots should be placed at once in the flowering positions. We have not heard of the successful culture of Romneya Coulteri in pots. The conditions under which this plant thrives outside suggest that it would not make a good pot plant. Select a sheltered, sunny position at the foot of a south or south-west wall or fence, for instance, where the soil is fairly light and very well drained. Work in some leaf-mould and coarse sand if required when planting if the ordinary garden soil is at all heavy. A mulch of half-decayed leaf-mould would be beneficial. April is preferable to now for planting, but some pieces should grow now. FLOWERING SHRUBS FOR BEDS (E. A. G. M.).— Two beds each 53ft. by 19ft. would require about one hundred shrubs in all. For the first two or three years after planting a thin sowing of annuals or such plants as Foxgloves and Honesty could ,be effectively made between the shrubs. Deciduous shrubs: Berberis polyantha. B. Wilsonse. Buddlcia globosa, B. variabilis, Ceanothus Gloire de Versailles, C. Marie Simon, Cornus Spa?thii, C. sibirica variegata, Cotoneasters frigida, multi- flora. Simonsii, Cydonia japonica varieties. Cytisus albus, C. nigricans, C. preecox, C. purpureus, C scoparius and var. Andreanus, Daphne Mezereum, Deutfcias in variety. Diervillas Abel Carriere, Eva Rathke, Mont Blanc, Forsythia speetabilis, Fothergilla major. Genista hispanica, g, fcinctoria tl. pi., Hamameiis motlis, Hydrangea panieu- lata granditlora, Hypericum Henryi, Kerria japonica fl. pi.. Magnolia conspicua, M. stellate, M. Soulangeana, Philadelphia in variety, Primus sinensis fl. pi., P. triloba tl. pi., Pyrus floribunda, Ribes aureum, R. sanguineum, Rosa Hugonis, R. Moyesii, Spartium junceum, Spiraeas in variety, Staphylea colchica. Syringas (Lilacs) in variety, Tamarix pentandra. Viburnum Carlesii, V. Opulus sterile and V. plieatum. Evergreen shrubs : Berberis Darwinii, B. etenophylla, B. Aquifoiium, Cist lis laurifolius, C. cyprius. Cotoneaster Henryana. C. horizontalis, C. pannosa, Escallonia f ; 1 1 1 ■_' i ■ \ ■ 1 1 - 1 - . E. Philippiana. Hypericum Moserianum, Ilex Aquifolium (Hollies) argentea regina (Silver Queen), marginata regina (Golden Queen), Olearia Haastii, Osmanthus Delavayi, Rosmarinus officinalis, Veronica Traversii, Viburnum Tinus and Vueea -'lurinsa. ROSE GARDEN. SWEET BRIARS (Felsted (.— It may be de-irable to shorten some of the snoots tin- spring, being newly planted, to make sturdy bushes, but it is not usual to prune the Sweet Briar as one does ordinary garden Roses; WEEPING ROSE (Felsted).— Griiss an Teplitz and American Pillar are both hardy and good growers. American Pillar would make the better tall weeping standard. Our correspondent will find it necessary to shorten some of the longest growths at first to form a good foundation. THE GREENHOUSE. PRIMULA MALACOIDES ATTACKED (A. V. W.).— The Primula has been attacked at the collar by a fungus, which is the cause of the rot. In all probability the plant has been growing in conditions which have caused moisture to accumulate there, and this has enabled the fungus to gain a footing and carry out its destructive work. CINERARIA FOLIAGE ATTACKED (E. B. J.).— The leaves are attacked by the grubs of a small two- winged fly. Pinching the ends ot the tunnels where the grubs are feeding between the finger and thumb, will be the best method of dealing with the insect if only a few plants are involved. If many, spraying with a nicotine wash would be wise. FRUIT GARDEN. CLEARING OLD BARK FROM FRUIT TREES (Felsted). — Only the really loose bark should be removed from fruit trees, and great care must be taken to avoid injury to the trunks. A dog chain may be used in experienced hands, but a piece of new cart rope is better still and not as liable to cause injury to sound bark. We do not know of special chains being sold for this particular purpose. TREATMENT OF SLOES (Felsted).— Sloe- Usually fruit in the hedgerow. They must be growing in a poor position not to fruit with our correspondent, though facing south they are apparently much overhung by the hedge. Our correspondent should clear the worst of this away and thin the Sloe bushes a little (described by him as a thicket). It might also be worth while clearing the ground beneath and mulching with some old decayed manure. The point to aim at should be to improve the growth this year and mature fruiting spurs for next year's flowering. NAMES OF FRUIT.— G. P. T.— Apples : 1, Upton Pyne ; 2. Minchall Crab.— H. M. L.. Bognor.— Pear Marie Louise. This variety will not keep long after Christmas. The very bad Pear season is no doubt responsible for the poor ripening and quality. H. Rob.— Apples : 1, Winter Greening; 2, Hubbard's Pearmain ; 3, specimen too bruised and malformed to identify; 4, Bedfordshire Foundling. NAME OF PLANT.— W. T.— Rhododendron dauricum atrovirens. CATALOGUES RECEIVED. Messrs. Blackmore and Langdon, Bath. — Begonias. Delphiniums, Gloxinias, Cyclamens, etc. Well illustrated in black and white and colour. Mr. C. Englemann, Saffron Waldcn, Essex. — Perpetual- flowering Carnations Messrs. Dobbie and Co., Limited, Edinburgh.— Spring Plant List. Messrs. Fidler and Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores. Reading. — Flower and Vegetable Seeds. Mes>rs. J. Cheal and Sons. Limited, Lowfleld Nurseries, Crawley, Sussex.— Flower and Vegetable Seeds ; and Hardy Plants. Messrs. John Jefferies and Son, Limited, Royal Nurseries, Cirencester. — Flower and Vegetable Si ifi Messrs. Hewitt and Co., Limited. The Nurseries, Solihull. —Gladioli. Messrs. Thompson and Morgan, Ipswich. — Flower and Vegetable Seeds. Messrs. William Cutbush and Son, B.trnet, Herts. — Flower and Vegetable See.ls. Messrs. Richard Melhuish, Limited, 50. 51 and 84, Fetter Lane, London, E.C. 4— Garden Tools. Perry's Hardv Plant Farm, Enfield, Middlesex.— Japanese and other Lilies, Begonias, Gladioli, Montbretias, with Alpine and Perennial Seeds. Messrs. Lowe and Gibson, Crawley Down. Sussex.— Gladioli. Messrs. Bo well and Skarratt, Cemetery Road. Cheltenham. — Hardy Orchids. FOREIGN. Mr. J. B. Van de Sehoot, Hillegom, Holland. — Begonias, Gladioli. Perennials and Rose Trees. Messrs. W. Atlee Burpee and Co., Philadelphia, U.S.A.— Flower and Vegetable Seeds. February 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. NOVELTIES IN FLOWER SEEDS for 1923 ANTIRRHINUM NANUM GRANDIFLORUM. (Two splendid new varieties.) MADONNA. Very large white flowers, fine spike, compact habit. RADIANCE. Terra cotta, shaded salmon, splendid for bedding. ASTER EARLY DAWN Large pure white flowers of the Ostrich Plume type. One of the very earliest to bloom. Splendid cut flower. GAILLARDIA GRANDIFLORA DAZZLER. golden yellow, maroon red centre. Bright **£J|»j^U SWEET PEA, ORANQE PRINCE SPENCER. Bright orange-salmon, with rosy tinted wings, giant flower. CALENDULA ORANGE KING IMPROVED Extra large flowers, very double, perfect shape and of a pure glowing orange colour PAPAVER NUDICAULE SUNBEAM IMPROVED Splendid strain with very large flowers, containing many new tints in maize, cream and various tones of rose. COSMEA EARLY MAMMOTH, SINGLE. Silvery lilac, crimson and white (separate colours), also mixture ; very large flowers, coming early into bloom. COSMEA EARLY DOUBLE-FLOWERING. Pink, crimson and white (separate colours), also mixture. Will bloom in good weather from June till frosts. THE ABOVE CAN BE OBTAINED FROM ALL LEADING RETAIL SEEDSMEN in the UNITED KINGDOM %|I%HMMMM»1I> STORING VEGETABLES AND FRUITS, with chapters on " Dryins in the Oven and by the Kitchen Fire." By Herbert Cowley. 9d. net, by post lid.— Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covcnt Garden, W.C.2. COLUMN BIRD BATH. ■:,.;-•' * 1 *-■ r Price £2 5 0 A new and inexpensive garden ornament. Write to W. Gaze for Illus- trated Catalogue <4.D.)of Garden Ornaments, Paving Stone for Garden Paths, etc. Prices and particulars on application. W. H. GAZE & SONS, LTD., Garden Architects and Craftsmen. 19-23, HIGH STREET, KINGSTON -ON -THAMES. PLANTING SEASON. GEO. JAGKMAN & SON Woking Nurseries, SURREY {Established over a Century) Invite Inspection of their Large and Varied Stock of ORNAMENTAL TREES -AND- SHRUBS, ROSES, CLIMBERS, FRUIT & FOREST TREES, HERBACEOUS & ALPINE PLANTS. 200 Acres of Stock to select from. Catalogues Free on application. Advice given on all matters appertaining to LANDSCAPE GARDENING and Estate Improvements. VEGETABLE SEEDS DANIELS' SELECTED STRAINS. A Copy of our 1923 Catalogue, with Cultural Hints for the Amateur Gardener, will be sent Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. DANIELS & SON, WYMONDHAM, NORFOLK HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most, helpful booklet by Owen Thomas, T.Jt.H. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Offices, 20, Tavistock Street, Caveat Garden, W.C.2. THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. Tfou can't Di£ a Garden with good intentions and a hairpin. There has to be some honest spade-work. You can do your digging and weeding with anybody, but you have your little weakness like the rest of 'em ! You like to look as though you'd done it. A little perspiration, and good honest dirt thick up to the elbow. Well, and why not? Just walk about a little where the neighbours can see you, and then — KIT. KIT soap will clear every atom of dirt, grease, oil, paint or tar out of your hand, and will do it nearly twice as quickly as anything else. It is a nice "spready" sort of soap, so you need only a little. The tin is blue and orange (the handy shape and the handy size), and the lid comes off just when you want it. Keep a tin in the house for cleaning after " odd jobs."^ Price 6d. per Tin. is IT OTHERS LIMITED, PORT SUNL LEVER BROTHERS LIMITED, PORT SUNLIGHT. READY SHORTLY. Nearly 250 pages, with Index. Over 40 Illustrations and 8 Coloured Plates. THE PRIMULAS OF EUROPE With Botanical Classification, Descriptions, and Cultural Instructions By JOHN MACWATT, M.B. Crown 8vo., Cloth, 1 2/6 net ; Postage ad. extra. The aim of the author has been to produce a handbook that will assist in the identification of those species of the genus Primula which are native to the European continent, and at the same time to furnish practical guidance to the cultivation of such of them as have been introduced to our gardens where conditions differ so widely from those prevailing in their natural habitats. Dr. Macwatt is an acknowledged authority on Primulas, and his book presents in a concise and interesting manner the results of many years of close personal observation and experience. The Offices of " Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock St., Covent Garden, London, W.C.2. NOW READY. An important addition to the " Increased Productivity Series " First Advice to Would-be Farmers THE Book for Allotment-Holders and Smallholders By F. E. GREEN. Crown 8vo. 5s. net ; by post 5s. 6d. THIS book throws a flood of light upon those things which every- body wants to know before farming even a few acres. The author discusses sites and markets, the most profitable kinds of Small Farming and the prac- ticability of side-lines and trades created by the new conditions. It is a book of absorbing interest and enormous help to all who wish to make a living from the Land. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. February i923] THE GARDEN THOMAS GREEN & SON, Ltd.. Smithfleld Ironworks, Leeds, and New Snrrey Works, Sonthwark Street, London, S.E.I FIRST INVENTED. FIRST EVER SINCE. SMITH'S "PERFECT" POWDER WEED KILLER Superior to all others. 8 tins of Powder to make 200 gallons of Liquid, carriage paid ; also in Liquid, all sized Drums, 5 gallons, carriage paid. MARK SMITH, LTD., LOUTH, LINCOLNSHIRE. THECLEANER THE TREES THETBETTERTHE FRUIT SPRAY THE ORCHARD WITH COOPER'S WINTER (VI ) FLUID Gat tpric* 10(6) PRICES j- I 9*ffy 3 WILLIAM COOPER t NEPHEWS. LIB., LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. 0 for GUARANTEED quality Seeds, Plants. Manures, Weed and Pest Killers, Lawn Improvers, Sports WITH FREE PRACTICAL ADVICE Garden Supplies l™ rHb CRAMER STREET. LIVER POOL FOR POTTING PURPOSES USE WELLSON'S ORGANIC PLANT FOOD A Plant well fed requires no stimulant Samples and Prices from WELLSON & CO., Castle Works, Garden St., Leeds Assise Nature by using VICKERS' GARDEN FERTILISER It is used extensively by Gardeners. Horticulturists, and Allotment Holders, and always gives complete satisfaction. A PERFECT PLANT FOOD FOR FRUIT, FLOWER, AND VEGETABLE GARDENS. Sold by the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and I ron mongers. CHEAPEST, BEST. AND MOST ECONOMICAL. GUARANTEED ANALYSIS PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble 18% Citric Soluble Insoluble Nitrogen Equal to Amm'nia Soluble Potash IK20) Equal to Sulphate of Potash (K2S04) 4% 3% 4% 4-85% 5% a 25% Packed in Sealed Bags, "lb. 2/-, 141b. 3/6, 281b. 6/6, 561b. 12/6, 112lb. 24/6 per Bag. If you have any difficulty In obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS & SONS. Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, WIDNES. LANCS. IE PATTISSON HORSE BOOTS FIG. I.— For Shed Horses. FIG. 2 tWelted Patterni. FIG. -1 (No \\ Kit i attern).! ONCE TRIED, ALWAYS USED. SIMPLEST! STRONGEST! MOST ECONOMICAL ! Best English Leather or Rubber Soles. Used in tbe Royal and in thousands of the Principal Gardens. Orders for NEW BOOTS OR REPAIRS now despatched by return. Silver Medals:— Royal Horticultural Society, 1904 and 1914. Royal International Horticultural Exhibition, 1912. HUNDREDS OF TESTIMONIALS. Over 10,000 Sets used in the United Kingdom. Illustrated Price Lists from the Makers :— H. PATTISSON & Cd., Slreatham. London. THE BOY'S OWN AQUARIUM and THE BOY'S OWX BOOK OF PETS, two booklets by Frank Finn, B.A., F.Z.8. ; full of practical hints and useful information for parents and boys. Published at 9d. each, by post lld.> at the Offices, of "Country' Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a "Horse Shoe" with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 38.000 S.ll. Used in the R.H.S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet E and quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«?PKii\i\ell«(?Ltd Southward St. LONDON. S.E.I. PERPETUAL CARNATIONS ILLUSTRATED — A thoroughly practical and well illustrated book on these beautiful and popular flowers, written by LAURENCE J. COOK, is now ready. Price 2/6 net, postage 4d. extra. It is published at the JOffices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. Published by "Country Life," Limited, at 20, Tavistock Street, Strand. VV.C.2, and by Ge-rge Newnes, Limited, 811, Southampton Street, Strand, W.C.2. Printed by The Avenue Press, 55 & 57, Drury Lane, London, W.C.2. XIV. THE GARDEN. [February 3, 1923. FOR §Xfiff*j(ii miltausk SqsJUhi&k, The Table AND THE Exhibition Stage. The following list includes the cream of the Vegetable World — whether grown for table use only or also for Exhibition -purposes. By hybridisation and selection on scientific lines, our strains have been brought to their present high standard of excellence, and only those who saw the fine Collections of Vegetables, grown from our seed, which were staged at the R.H.S. Autumn Show and other Exhibitions, can realise the immense strides that have been made in recent years, not only in the art of cultivation, but also in the degree of perfection attained in our new and improved varieties. PEA. Sutton's Pioneer - per pint, 2 6, per quart, 4 6 Sutton's Early Giant „ ,, 2/6, ,, „ 4/6 DWARF FRENCH BEAN. Sutton's Superlative per 1 pint, 1/9, per pint, 3/- BEET. Sutton's Globe - per packet, 1 /-, per ounce, 1/6 CAULIFLOWER. Sutton's First Crop .. per packet, 1 '9 and 2/6 Sutton's Magnum Bonum ,, ,, 1/9 ,, 2/6 CARROT. Sutton's Champion Scarlet Horn — per packet, 1/-, per ounce, 1/6 Sutton's Early Gem ,, „ 1/-, ,, „ 1/6 CUCUMBER. Sutton's Every-day - per packet, 2 6 and 3/6 Sutton's Delicacy - ,, 2/- ,, 3/- LETTUCE (Cos). Sutton's Nonsuch - per packet, 1/6 and 2 6 LETTUCE (Cabbage). Sutton's Golden Ball - - per packet, 1/6 ONION. Sutton's Selected Ailsa Craig per pkt., 2 6 and 3/6 RADISH. French Breakfast, Sutton's Crimson per oz., 9d. Sutton's Earliest of All per packet, 1 /- and 1 /6 SPINACH. Sutton's Long-standing Round per ounce, 8d. TOMATO. Sutton's Best of All per packet, 1 ,/9, 2 ,6 and 3/6 TURNIP. Sutton's Early Snowball - - per ounce, 8d. Sutton's Green-top White- - ,, ,, 6d. VEGETABLE MARROW. Sutton's Table Dainty - - per packet, 1 /6 4 _E ( THE SRARYoftM GAR DBS] ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2673. Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York, N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, February 10, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription : Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign, 17/4 MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN! FOR EXHIBITION! FOR BEDS! FOR EVERYWHERE! Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. BARR'S TALL FLAG IRISES FOR PRESENT PLANTING Awarded R. H. S. Gold Medal at the Great Iris Conference, June 7th, 1922. 100 in ioo superb named varieties . . . . 75/-, 100/- & 120/- 60/- 30/- 15/- per ioo, 45/- ; per doz., 6/- 50 ,, 50 „ „ .... 36'-, 48/- & 25 „ 25 „ „ .... 16/-, 24/- & 12 „ 12 „ „ .... 8/-, 12/- & Choice mixed varieties, without names. BARR'S DWARF CRIMEAN IRISES Produce a wealth of rich colouring during March and April. 100 in 20 beautiful named varieties .. .. 42/- — ■ — 12 „ 6 „ „ .. .. 6/- — — Mixed, without names .. per ioo, 35/-; per doz., 5/- 11, 12 & 13, KING STREET, CO VENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.C.2. BARR & SONS, SAXIFRAGA OPPOSITIFOLIA. A beautiful native plant for present planting. " I 17 ETDT TTTII7D " THE world's best manure. Lill. rlvLJl 1 H-jIX First at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:— 1 cvvt., 30'-; J-cwt., 16/S ; 281bs., 9/- ; 14 lbs., 5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6. 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE NOTICE TO OUR READERS /~\N receipt of a Post Card the under- ^~^ mentioned firms will be pleased to send their useful Catalogues free of charge. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT ^or P,antin9 and Conservatory SOUTHGATE decoration. Catalogue of our MIDDLESEX new and beautiful varieties post Established 1797 free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twbrton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Book of Seeds now ready R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if vou mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. [jgggggggggggrj]B]E]E]E]E]B] H KINGS ACRE ROSES | noted for over a Century for 13 Oil hardiness and reliability. L3 El Useful alphabetically 13 El arranged Catalogue of more 13 Qfl than usual interest, contain- [3 [51 ing helpful information, with 13 Special Collections for all 13 purposes. Free on request. [3 Inl Nurseries Established 1785. IG] El KINGS ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 Qj] HEREFORD. [E] Gfl [a Is Is Is la la la Da Is Data [slats Is la [a IS V "Tubs for shrubs. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak etc. Highly decorative.— Price List from Pradal & Co., 26, Goodfie Street, London, W.l. Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Bar«ow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening J. CHEAL & SONS, Ltd. Nurseries CRAWLEY Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. f HODSONS, LIMITED, i4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i &58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts GEORGE G WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT write me Landscape and Garden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re -arranged. PI ant- ing plans for borders. etc. Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving full cultural directions at competitive prices, Post Free. if this paper is mentioned. D. T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. Choice Chrysanthemums Our Novelty List for 1923 is now ready, also General Catalogue con- taining the very best varieties in each section, and selected Per- petual Flowering Carnations. Write to-day. Sent free from KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX, and at SAWBRIDGEWORTH, HERTS, SOW NOW to bloom in July and August. Blackmore S Langdon's World renowned BEGONIA SEEDS (58 Gold Medals). DOUBLES. Non? can equal this for quality, size and Per packet lovely form and colours ot flowers ... 2 6 & 5 - SINGLE. Of wonderful size and form 1/-, 2 6 & 5/- FRILLED SINGLE. A beautiful selection I/-, 2,6 & 5'- CRESTED SINGLE. Very fascinating I/-, 2/6 & 5/- HANGING BASKET. A grand novelty, very graceful 1/6, 2/6 & 5- GLOXINIA Seed, mixed, in most beautiful selection of colour 1/6, 2/6 & 51- For prices of tubers of above and other specialities, write for free catalogue and mention this paper. Twerton Hill Nurseries, BATH CAMPING. — All Campers and lovers of out- door life should read " Camping," by J. Scott Moore, published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, W.C2 ; price 9d. net bv post, lid. i( FOG WILLS ! Best-Result" Seeds WILL GROW GET THIS FREE. Guide to Garden Success PoawiLLS 5e»o House GuitQMR»\ IT TELLS ABOUT THE "SEEDS THAT ARE DIFFERENT." Post free with particulars of Free Seeds from FCGWILLS SEED HOUSE (Dept. E), GUILDFORD. Established 70 years. The -SPALDING" Collection of SWEET PEAS. 15 BEST EXHIBITION VARIETIES, 12 Seeds each, price 4 -, post free. Annie Ireland Charity i George Shawyer Picture Jean Ireland Gloriosa Mrs. Tom Jones Austin Frederick Constance Hinton Hawlmark Pink Majestic Cream Sunset Warrior Royal Scot Royal Purple GEORGE ELSOM, DT Seed & Bulb Grower, SPALDING SPECIALITY PLANT NOW FLOWERING SPRING TREES AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) V. N Gaustlett & Co., Ltd., Japanese Nurseries. Chiddingfold, Purrev. The Shelley Antirrhinums THIRTY VARIETIES, including : Cerise King. A.M.. R.H S.. 4d. ; Pink Beauty. 4d. ; Orange Beauty. 4d.; Rosebud. 4d : Black Prince, 3d. : Bonny Lass. A.M.. R.H.S.. 4d.: Golden Gem, A.M.. R H.S.. 4d. : Maize Queen. A.M.. R.H.S.. 3d.; Silver Queen. 6d. ; Purity, 6d., &c. Also SWEET PEAS and GARDEN SEEDS. T. H. DIPNALl, F.R.H.S., Shelley, Hadle gh, Suffolk. (Continued from opposite page.) JAPANESE BOWL GARDENS.— Miniature Figures. Pagodas, Huts and Bridges, complete sample set, 7/6. New list post free. — Ferrest & Ward. 9-10. St. Mary-at-Hill, E.C.3. Trade supplied. TO LOVERS OF ROCK GARDENS.— Inexpensive plants for Place, Bath. Hie.—. Apply, Nbll Shaw, Hatfield SWEET PEAS AND HOW TO EXCEL WITH THEM. By Horace Wright, 9d. net, by post lid. Published at the Offices of " COUKTRY Like," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street. Covi'iit Canli-n. W.C.2. TO LET. — On main road and 3 minutes from railway station. 3 to 4 acres. Garden planted with fruit trees, 14 hot-houses, sheds, stables, etc.. and tiny cottage. Apply Treelands. Leckh&mpton, Cheltenham. WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus ! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small trees, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 19 6 per mile (full L,760 yards). Send for trial lot or samples to-day. — Green's Surplus Stores, 205. Seymour Road, Lytharu. February io, 1923.] E GARDEN. ?=^0>& WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN IDRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Slirulis, Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials, Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch (Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— John Waterer Sons and Crisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks ■ land London. __ WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See 'advert, on p. xii. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., fLawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15.— Conservatories, iWinter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, Ichestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity : make .splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- 'cach, net cash, f.o.r. London.— Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., ILIMJTEP, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. ILOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. — Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli, THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful [Gladioli Is now ready. Send for particulars of highest class jseed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN ISEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all Insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. TURF FROM OLD PARK LAND FOR SALE. Quantities of 1 acre and upwards, £30 per acre. Buyer to cut and cart. — Lessons Farm, Chlslehurst. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — Hodson AND SON, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. WELLS & Co. Merstham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection Invited. Price list post free on application. — THOS. Rivers & Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridgeworth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus.— Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 ; Express, 2/8; Epicure, 2/-: Ashleaf, 2/9; Great Scot, 1/10; Arran Comrade, 1/9 ; Kerr's Pink, 1/8 ; Majestic, 2/- ; Rhoderick Dhu, 2/8 ; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early, 2/- ; Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K. of K., 2/- ; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward, 1/10 : Arran CMef, 1/9 ; T. W. & Co.. Plotholdcr, 2/9 ; Field Marshal, 2/6 ; Golden Wonder, 2/- ; Tinwald Perfection, 1/9 ; Ally, 2/- ; Witchhill, 2/9 ; Bloomfleld, 2i-, etc. Carriage Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks, Onions, Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce, Radish, Celery, Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt., 2d., 3d. and fid. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries for Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Tillie, Whyte and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— List of varieties with prices on application. — Alexander Graham, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. GASSON'S GARDEN & TENNIS BOUNDARY NET. List now ready, with samples, post free. — Gasson & Sons, Net Works, Rye. Established over 100 years. MORRIS'S LIVE SEEDS (29th Season).— Reliable quality, reasonable priceB. Full list of tho worth- while varieties free. Shallots, 10lb., 6/3 ; Onion Sets, 41b., 5/- Carr. paid. Scotch Seed Potatoes, finest grading, inspected stocks from 10/- cwt. — Morris's, Seedhouse. 225, Bristol Street, Birmingham. BARR'S FLOWER & VEGETABLE SEEDS, of finest selected strains nd tested growth, also the best Scotch and Irish grown Seed Potatoes. Descriptive Catalogue free. BARR'S LILIES, GLADIOLI, DAHLIAS, CANNAS, MONTBRETIAS, TIGRIDIAS, BEGONIAS, TUBEROSES, Ac, for February planting. Catalogue free.— Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations can now be planted in any part of Great Britain. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorioxis scent. "We have won more carnation awards of R.H.S. than any two firms together. Sow seed now, 2/6 and 5/- Plant list free. — J. Douglas, Edenside, Great Bookham. JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone: Kensington 90 & 91. CONTENTS page, Rock Garden Construction. — I . . . . 65 Some Choice Annuals for Spring Planting 67 The White " Peruvian Daffodil " . . . . 68 Alpines at Chislehurst . . . . . . 69 Spring Floioers at Vincent Square : New and Rare Plants . . . . . . 70 A Horticultural Marvel : Prepared Hya- cinths at Christmas -time . . . . . . 71 Szveet Pea Selection for 1923 . . . . 71 Notes of the Week . . . . . . 72 Primula Winteri ; The Snotvdrops ; Box Hill. About Daffodils . . . . . . • • 73 A Rock Garden Indeed . . 73 Bulbs for Spring Planting . . . . . . 74 The Snowflakes . . . . . . . . 74 Correspondence . . . . . . 75 " Spottiness " in Planting ; The Mild Winter ; Golden Thyme ; Iris reticulata Under Glass ; The Valerian and Self-sown Seedlings ; Trapping Vermin ; Chrysan- themum Tokio. Gardening of the Week . . . . . . 76 Answers to Correspondents . . . . . . viii ILLUSTRATIONS Aquilegia alpina vera . . . . . . 69 Camellia Snowflake . . . . . . . . 70 Convolvulus major . . . . . . 68 Dryas octopetala . . . . . . 69 Galanthus Imperati . . . . . . 72 Hyacinths and Tulips at Haarlem Show . . 71 Iris reticulata . . . . . . ■ • 75 Leucojum vernum carpaticum . . . . 74 Narcissus Everest . . . . • • 73 Rhodanthe maculatum alba.. .. ..67 Rock Garden, A Newly Built, in Water-worn Limestone . . . . . . . . . . 65 Rock Garden Construction, Diagrams for . . 66 ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free. Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 10, Morden Rd., Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a pcfect fertiliser ; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wirework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists.— Boulton and Paul, Limited, Norwich. SURPLUS SEEDLING RHODODENDRONS. Rare Himalayan and Chinese species and hybrids therefrom. List on application.— E. J. P. Magor, St. Tudy, R.S.O.. Cornwall. SUTTON'S SEED POTATOES. Strong, healthy stocks. Scotch grown SUTTON'S ALNWICK CASTLE, Early (Non-immune) 141b., 4/6 ; :81b., 8/6 ; jewt., 15/-. SUTTON'S WHITE CITY, Maincrop (Immune) 141b., 4/9 ; 281b„ 9/- ; Jcwt., 16/-. Both very heavy croppers. Exceptional table quality SUTTON & SONS, THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, READING. NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S LOVELY PEONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupines, Gaillardias, Phloxes Paeonies, etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Roses now ready. — Write for descriptiv Catalogues to Kelwat AND SON, The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. DOBBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogue and Guide to Gardening, free, if this paper Is mentioned. PERRY'S SPECIAL OFFER OF JAPANESE LILIES, GLADIOLUS, MONTBRETIAS. Perry's Seed Cata- logue now ready. — Hardy Plant Farm. Enfield. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS — New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies.— (Dept. E) R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free — Moorton, 65, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior & Son, Ltd., Colchester. CHRYSANTHEMUM CUTTINGS. Louisa Pockett, Majestic, Mrs. Algernon Davis, Peace, Princess Mary. Queen Mary, all at 3/6 per doz., or two of each of the six varieties, 3/6 ; Blanche Poitevine, pure glistening white, splendid dwarf habit, 2/6 per doz. ; The Favourite, grand late white, 2/6 per doz. ; Percy A. Dove, fine late white, 2/6 per doz. ; Caprice du Printemps, splendid dwarf habit, 12 in 6 varieties, 2/6. Half dozens at same rates. Orders value 5/- post free ; under 5/-, 6d. for postage. Delivery per return post. Catalogues free.— J. W. Cole and Son, Chrysanthemum Nurseries, Peter- borough LAXTON'S SEEDS AND FRUIT TREES.— Catalogues (mention which required), containing novelties and all the old favourites, can be had on application. — Laxton Brothers, Seed Merchants, Bedford. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10/6 each. Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chichester. PRIVET & THORN.— Also Rhododendrons, Heathers and Alpines. Send for List. — Hodsons Limited,. 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. RARE ALPINE 1922 SEEDS, from one of the largest and choicest collections. Lists free. — Rev. J. F. Anderson. Glenn Hall, Leicester. ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection ot the best Vegetable and choicest Btrains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices, is now ready and will be sent free on application. — J. R. PEARSON orange-red, 3 -. Pyrethrum, Kelway's hybrids, 4 -. Rose Campion, deep crimson. 3, -. Sweet Rocket, 3 -. Rud- beckia Newmanii superba, 6 - Rudbeckia Golden Ball, double 6 -. Saponaria ocymoides, dwarf trailing, 3/-. Saxifraga mossy, crimson or pink flowering, 6/- ; white. 4 -. Sweel Scabious, enormous blooms, dwarf or tall, fragrant. 2 6 Scabiosa caueasiea, large exquisite mauve flowers, large fcwej year old plant-, 9 -. Shasta Daisy, 3 -. Sedum hyhiidun rubrum, 4/-. Silene compacta, pink. 1 4. Solidago Goldei | Wings, 6/-. Solomon's Seal, 3 -. Stachys (Lamb's Wool), 3/- Sweet William, choice hybrids, double and single, 16: new Scarlet Beauty, Pink Beauty, Crimson Beauty and Doubu White, 3 '-. Thrift, compact pink flowering. 2, -. Tritoma (Red-hot Poker). 6/-. Tussilago (Winter Heliotrope), ven iragrant, 6'-. Tunica Saxifrages, edging or rockery. Valerian, crimson, 3/-. Veronica irentianoides, dwarf, and spicata. tall blue, 4/-. Violas, Bath's bedding, from seed yellow, blue, purple, white, mauve and good mixed. 1 6. Wall- flowers, not transplanted, blood red, ruby, pink, golden yellow and new large-flowering hybrids, 3/6 100. Siberian and Alpine Wallflowers, for rockeries, edging old walls, etc., in flower for months, very bright and pretty, 4/- 100. Strong Vegetable and Herb Plants, from open ground Asparagus, Kelway's Giant, two year old roots, 7/- 100 : three years, 10/- 100. Sage, Thyme, Mint, Marjoram, 3'- doz. Parsley, best curled. 1/4 doz. Spring Cabbage. Brussels Sprouts, Cos and Cabbage Lettuce, Leeks, Cauli- flower, Winter Tripoli Onions, Coleworts, Kelway's Sprouting Marrow Kale, Broccoli, Sprouting Broccoli, Pickling Cabbage, 1 9 100. Strong Transplanted Plants for Cool Greenhouse, etc. All per dozen, half or quarter dozen same rate. Agapanthus (blue African Lily), 6/-. Aralia (Fig Palm). 6 -. Asparagus Fern, erect or trailing, 6/-. Begonias, evergreen, perpetual flowering, 4/-. Beauty Stocks, fragrant, early, 4 -. Cannas, lovely hybrids, 6/-. Cinerarias, exhibition and stellata, 3'-. Eucalyptus, 4,'-. Bridal Wreath, 6 -. Fuchsias, choice. ."> -. Heliotrope, 5/-. Lily of the Valley, 3-. Lobelia cardinalis Queen Victoria, 6/-. Blue, white, yellow Marguerites, 4/-. White or crimson Tobacco, 3'-. Passion Flower, S '-. Primula obconica, new giant, lovely colours, 6/-. Primula malacoides. showing bud. great favourite for cut bloom, 4 '- strong seedlings, 2/- ; Sinensis, all colours : kewensis, yellow ; cortusoides, bright rose ; cashmeriana, rich purple ; dentienlata large heads, lilac, pots or rockery. 4'-. Rehmannia, pink trumpet, 6/-. Salvia Scarlet Zurich, 6,'-; coccinea, 4-. Saxifraga sarmentosa, trailing, 4 -. Smilax, trailing, 4.' Streptocarpus, beautiful new hybrids, lovely Cape Primrose. 6/ , Strong Hardy Climbers. Ampelopsis Veit« hii, se! 'climbing, small leaf, large roots, several trails, each 2/-. Clematis Traveller's Joy and Flammula (Virgin's Bower), white, rapid climbers, large two year roots, 1/9 each. Honeysuckle, very fine red-flowering Dutch, large plants, 2/6 each. Wistaria sinensis, large racemes of bluish-lilac flowers, 3/- each. Several dozen White Lilac, large roots, bushy, lit., 2ft. and 3ft., 6/-, 8/-, 10/- doz. Catalogue Free. MRS. PYM, F7R.H.S., 10, Vine House, Woodston, Peterborough. Selected DUTCH BULBS, ROSES ff PERENNIAL PLANTS FOR SPRING PLANTING. Descriptive Catalogue free on application. Delivery carriage paid. No Charge for Packing. JOHN B. VAN DER SCHOOT THE OLD-ESTABLISHED BULB FARMS (Own Bulb Farms over 400 Acres* HILLEGOM, HOLLAND NARc.sJusT^.liEGOM. February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. V. & Son's BULBS Herbaceous Plants AND ROSES For Spring, 1923. All of the Finest Quality. The Catalogue of above will be sent, post free, on application to their Offices at Overveen, Haarlem, HOLLAND. i»%»*»» a ««««»«»»«§» STORING VEGETABLES AND FRUITS, with chapters on " Drying in the Oven and by the Kitchen Fire." Bv Herbert Cowley. 9d. net, by post lid. — Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. a To eradicate Eelworm, Wireworm, Centipedes, &c, and to check Club, Streak, Stripe and other Fungoid Diseases, use the scientific liquid Soil Steriliser and Insecticide, EELLITE Send for full particulars. yj 40, SPON LANE MILLS, WEST BROMWICH. CLudtUvt SCOTCH SEED POTATOES Our stocks are grown and selected specially for Seed purposes, and under normal con- ditions of soil and situation, cannot fail to produce first-class crops. All are Class I. Scotch, Immune varieties certified by Board of Agriculture. Bags free. Keenest prices. Write for Catalogue. NEW VARIETIES.— New Catriona, Di Vernon, Katie Glover. FIRST EARLIES- — America, Arran Rose, Eclipse, Edzell Blue. Epicure, Immune Ashleaf, Midlothian Early, Sharpe's Express, Victory, Witch Hill Early. SECOND EARLIES. — Arran Comrade, British Queen, Great Scot, K. of K., King George, Nithsdale. MAINCROP. — Abundance, Arran Chief, Arran Victory, Bishop, Crusader. Golden Wonder. Kerr's Pink, King Edward. Langworthy, Lochar, Majestic, Roderick Dhu, Tinwald Perfection, Up-to-Date, White Citv. AUSTIN'S GOLD MEDAL GARDEN SEEDS. Descriptive Catalogue of all varieties of out- standing merit free on request. Write for copy. Orders have prompt attention. AUSTIN & McASLAN, 89-9S, Mitchell Street, Glasgow. Established 1717. HI IflMPQ* Chrysanthemum . J. Jv/llCiJ Catalogue contains select list of all the new and best np-to-date varieties in all sections, also list of gold medal Phlox, new Michaelmas Daisies, choice Delphiniums, new Hydrangeas, giant Mont- bretias. Giant Cannas, choice Gladioli, etc., sent post free for 2d. stamp. List of CHRYSANTHEMUM NOVELTIES post free. H. J. JONES' Chrysanthemum Guide. Best work on Culture. New Edition in preparation (135th thousand), ready shortly. Paper covers, post free 1'2, Cloth covers 2/3. Gold medal Phlox, 7/6 and 10/- per doz.; gold medal Michaelmas Daisies. 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; new giant Mont bretias, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; finest named Delphiniums. 12/- and 18/- per doz. : gold medal decorative Dahlias, pot roots, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; Hydrangeas, grand new varieties, 60/- per doz. All box. packing and carriage free for cash ivith order. RYECR0FT NURSERIES, Lewisham, S.E.13. D.B. &T.'s "Amateur" Collection 12 VARIETIES OF SPENCER TYPE (25 Seeds each), 3j-, viz. : — Alex. Malcolm— Cerise "Austin Fredk. — Lavender Barbara— Salmon oranfie Bridesmaid— Cream pink "Charity — Crimson 'Constance Hinton— White "Elegance— Pink "Felton's Cream Cream Jean Ireland— Picotee King Manoel— Maroon King Mauve— Mauve Mrs. Tom Jones — Blue 6 Varieties marked * (25 Seeds each), 1/9 Special. — 12 Choice Varieties, as above (12 Seeds of each), 1/9. DICKSON, BROWN & TAIT, 57, Gross Street, MANCHESTER. PLANTING SEASON. GEO. JAGKMAN & SON Woking Nurseries, SURREY (Established over a Century) Invite Inspection of their Large and Varied Stock of ORNAMENTAL TREES ■AND- SHRUBS, ROSES, CLIMBERS, FRUIT & FOREST TREES, HERBACEOUS & ALPINE PLANTS. 200 Acres of Stock to select from. Catalogues Free on application. Advice given on all matters appertaining to LANDSCAPE GARDENING and Estate Improvements. I Send NORTH and get THE BEST * Scotch Seed Potatoes DIRECT from FORFARSHIRE FARMS are Unsurpassed for Crop and Quality. 30 of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of Reliable Vegetable and Flower Seeds for 1923. Send a PC. for a Post Free Copy. If interested, also ask for a copy of our Nursery Catalogue of HARDY SCOTCH PLANTS for Flower Borders and Rockeries; ROSES, FRUIT TREES, etc. ITHYNE & SON, J * Dept. G, DUNDEE. '3? *^ ^V *V •?? rV *J* *j* *$* **? *$? *t? *f* ■*'* *V rV **• *t? •$? •>;• *$? '$* **V *;-7 HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet bv Owen Thomas, v.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Offices, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. VI. THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. EVERYTHING FOR THE GARDEN & LAWN SUPPLIED BY A FLOWER SEEDS. VEGETABLE SEEDS. LAWN GRASS SEEDS, FERTILISERS, WORMKILLER, Etc ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE of SEEDS Now Ready. Write for a Copy. JAMES CARTER & Co., SEEDSMEN to H.M. THE KING. RAYNES PARK, LONDON, S.W. Branches : — 237 & 238, HIGH HOtBORN. W.C.I 53a, QUEEN VICTORIA STREET, E.C.4. THAT GARDEN OF YOURS can be made as profitable and as lovely as the one you have so often admired if you write now for an absolutely FREE Copy of our 160-page, beautifullv illustrated "GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM AND GUAR- ANTEED GARDEN SEEDS." Ensures you a much better Garden than ever before, and at less cost. EVERY packet of Seeds, too, ordered thence MUST grow for you and please you, or you will get it REPLACED FREELY. There is no obligation of any sort. Just send a post card to-day, but address us personally : TOOGOOD & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and Growers of "Better Crops" Seeds only, SOUTHAMPTON. DOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO., Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RGH . 0WcH4 SceeetT(B Appointment. 'MA PEEDS' SEEDS As grown IN THE ROYAL PARKS for the past 15 Years. 1923 CATALOGUE NOW READY Post Free on application JOHN PEED & SON Seedsmen & Nurserymen to H.M. The King WEST NORWOOD, LONDON. A COMPLETE LIST of the finest and most distinct varieties will be found in SUTTON'S GARDEN SEED CATALOGUE for 1923. We call special attention to our list of SWEET PEA NOVELTIES for1923 (On Page 160). IMPORTANT NAMED VARIETIES FOR EXHIBITION Including our recent introductions : SUTTON'S PAGEANT SUTTON'S BLACK-SEEDED CREAM SUTTON'S FRILLED BEAUTY (Cream Pink) SUTTON'S ROYAL BLUE SUTTON'S MANDARIN, etc., etc. EXHIBITOR'S COLLECTIONS OF THE FINEST SWEET PEAS Awarded 17 COLD MEDALS during the past three years. 100 sorts, onr selection^" 50 50 - 27 6 15 - 10 6 SUTTON SONS £5E? READING rfS^j&Sa *«-> No. 2673.— Vol. LXXXVIL] [February 10, 1923. ROCK GARDEN CONSTRUCTION— I. THE construction of a rock garden divides itself naturally into two parts, which we may call the general and the particular. These bear much the same relation the one to the other that, in warfare, strategy bears to tactics. First of all we must decide the general scheme of the garden — its hills and valleys and passes and, it may be, its brooks and pools. We must visualise, too, the general effects of planting, since on them much depends. Having as it were rough-hewn our rock garden, we have the detail work still to do, especially the placing of the actual stones. The difficulty of this last depends largely upon the class of material em- ployed, but the arrangement and placing of the stone is, in any event, of immense importance. No beauty of idea will in any way compensate for an improbable or unnatural disposition of our materials. To-day let us discuss the general design, leaving for a subsequent article the equally important detail work. Now, to great extent, the form of the garden must depend upon the site on which it has to be placed. Let us commence, therefore, by defining the conditions which are necessary and also those which are very desirable in a rock garden. First of all the rock garden should be wholly or, at any rate, very largely free from the shade of trees ; if genuine alpines are to be grown this is absolutely essential. Secondly it is very desirable that a small rock garden should run from north to south ; this pro- vides, without special care, that the greater number of sites will have an easterly or a westerly exposure, which aspects, in our climate, suit the majority of rock- garden plants. Thirdly, it is advantageous, especially where the garden is to be small, that there should be a natural difference in levels between the two ends of the garden. Fourthly, it is preferable for this fall to be from north to south, rather than vice versa. Fifthly, a solid background of trees or shrubs at the northern end is desirable and a screen of trees at a little distance on the eastern side is also beneficial. The value of this screen depends upon its being at just the right distance, so that, while keeping no valuable light and air from the plants, it is yet sufficient, in early spring, to prevent the rays of the newly risen sun striking upon and scorching frozen blossoms. Beside the five conditions mentioned, there is the very important question of pure air, but since few of us select our habitation from the point of view of the rock garden, we may let that pass. There are some very charming rock gardens in quite suburban localities and if a few of the choicest plants " refuse," such species are not generally those which we class broadly as " effective." Returning then to our " five points." Point I is absolutely essential ; a rock garden must be in the open. Point II can be overcome by careful A GLIMPSE OF A NEWLY BUILT ROCK GARDEN IN WATER-WORN LIMESTONE. arrangement of the stone ; and by a judicious " handling " of the hills and valleys we can provide the aspects desired in a garden running east and west, particularly if there is a fair width of ground to play with. An expert will readily overcome the difficulties suggested by Point III and provide a charming and natural looking rock garden on what was originally a dead level site, but special care is necessary to work such into the general garden scheme. There are many places where the suggestion of a sandstone outcrop would look quite satisfactory and yet an elaborate garden of weather- worn mountain limestone would appear absolutely ridiculous. With regard to Point IV, a steep fall from south to north is a very great drawback ; a slight one, given careful arrangement, is of little account. Proper backgrounds must be provided if the rock garden is to be a success. To that extent Point V is an essential one; but, fortunately, such backgrounds can always be provided, though the effect of matured shrubbery or woodland cannot, of course, be obtained forthwith. Few will have the screen belt in just the right position to eastward ; great numbers will be quite unable to provide it. These must take special pains to pro- vide shade from the east at various spots in the garden itself Now let us consider - a couple of typical sites and discuss methods of laying them out advantageously as rock gardens. Fig. i shews the portion nearest the back of the house of such a rectangular strip as is attached to many thousands of houses in the County of London. A dry walk leads to the kitchen garden on the west side — it is supposed that the front of the house faces south — and a simple treat- ment of lawn and border is the only ornamental feature. Such an arrangement, if undistinguished, is at least not distracting. 66 THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. \ jf&kM^H Ve.<3«rjiBi-E Gais^den. figure 1. Now the occupier of the house — perhaps a new- comer— wishes to include a rock garden. How is this to be done ? Fig. 2 provides a solution, w -i irked out for a level or practically level site. The opening from lawn to rock garden is opposite the garden entrance to the house. The paths in the rock garden are of turf, from which the various plantings are made to rise as naturally as possible. The central area of turf is hollowed out (" dished ") to a considerable extent and the soil removed is used for building up the banks as shewn. A moderate amount of " dishing " and the consequent use of material from outside the garden to complete the mounds is desirable, but if necessary steps can be introduced as required and the whole of materials excavated on the site. When thus contouring ground it is necessary always to bear the question of drainage in mind and if this is at all doubtful, to improve it. The central mound of rockery will inevitably be in full view of the house windows and will serve to close the vista from the house across the lawn. It is necessary then to plant some interesting shrub or group of shrubs to mark the termination of the vista and to arrange the supporting planting on either hand to give a balanced effect. Owing to its pleasing greenness when devoid of foliage and other goods points for the position, Cytisus prrecox comes at once to mind for this central feature, but a specimen dwarf conifer, a clump of Kerria japonica simplex or many other things would also prove suitable. The character of the planting in the shrubbery dividing lawn from rock garden would naturally influence one's choice. This view across the lawn should be the tirst garden picture to receive consideration ; it is a very important one. Once inside the rock garden a succession of pictures should be arranged and as great a variety as possible should be sought for. In a small garden such as this and on what was naturally a level site, " pass " effects are scarcely feasible. The paths will follow the lowest ground leaving cliffs or rocky slopes upwards on either hand. In the diagram two moraine slopes - ..^%vY-VS^iS'©:,; FIGURE February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 67 best place for a precipice with much less labour than would be involved in repeatedly setting up and taking down stones for the purpose ! In Fig. 3 is shewn an entirely different site. A small spinney here was just outside the garden scheme of a newly-erected country house. The great possibilities of this spinney for a woodland garden were borne in mind and the owner very wisely connected it to the gardens proper by attractive but semi-wild shrubberies bordering an artificial grassy glade. When, in time, the gardens as laid out got into thorough working order, the inevitable mistakes had all been rectified or, as far as possible, disguised, it was felt that the addition of a not over-large but well designed rock garden would be an improve- ment. A suitable site presented itself between the garden proper, the converted spinney and the connecting shrubbery. Fig. 4 suggests the treat- ment that was accorded. There was a slight fall from the connecting glade down to what was to be the boundary of the rock garden and this was accentuated by skilful planting and also by rather subtle contouring. The path at the bottom of the garden was excavated to assist to form an irregular bank against the field. Further excavation out- side the boundary lifted the bank further and with the assistance of the usual brickwork completed a ha-ha. The soil excavated for the pool shewn was devoted to forming the " highlands " which at the east end surround the moraine marked " A," and which at one point terminate as a cliff against the central path forming, for the path is walled up on its western side, a " pass." At the western corner of the garden, as the steps in the curving path would suggest, there is another highland through which, despite the steps, the path is taken in a cutting. As one goes southward from this corner there is a cross glade giving a delightful view across the pool to the " highlands " beyond ; then further shrubbery planting at the level of the path, or a little higher, again restricts the view. The stepping stones shewn on the plan, run at the foot of a bank — in places fairly steep, in others of quite easy gradient — which supports heavy plant- ing, largely consisting of the original shrubbery. Down this bank splashes a miniature rivulet. Another trickle of water may be discharged into the head of the moraine " A," a very desirable thing in droughty weather or may be cut off there and turned on just at the foot of the moraine. In either case it wends its slow way to the pond, to which there is, of course, fitted a drain overflow. Thanks to this trickle of water the soil on the north side of the southern path is always moist, not to say boggy, and a considerable piece on the south side of this path is also kept damp by the same means. This moist ground suits a great variety of Candelabra Primulas and semi-bog plants. Reverting for a moment to the central path, immediately below the cliff already referred to there is a wide bottomed valley, planted partly with Heaths and partly with bogland plants and on the opposite side of the path and dividing this latter from the pool a ridge capped with large- growing Heaths and Rhododendron species. At the eastern end, the garden dies away into the woodland, the ground gradually becomes more level and an occasional happily placed Tocky boulder serves to connect the two styles of gardening without any hard and fast line. There are many plants which like the situation thus provided. It will readily be seen that a rock garden such as this, small though it be, contains situations suitable for an immense variety of plants and that without any appearance of forced effect. Because of the variety it offers we shall hope, in a future article, to detail some of the construction and planting. SOME CHOICE ANNUALS FOR SPRING SOWING NOW that the seed lists are in and order- sheets must be sent out, a few sugges- tions regarding annuals may be of service to amateurs, who are often at a loss to know what to select. Omitting all or most of the better-known annuals — those commonly grown by the majority — I will confine the following notes to a number of desirable species and varieties which, though generally as easy as the more familiar ones, are seldom seen in the average garden. Consider, for example, the annual Lupins. Here is a class that affords a wide variety of wonder- fully showy plants which are admirable for border or bedding, easy to grow and adaptable for almost any soil, yet one very seldom sees them anywhere. The crimson-scarlet hybridus atrococcineus, Cruk- shanksii, Hartwegii and sub-carnosus, a fine blue, are among the most noteworthy and range in height from ift. to 2ft. Then there are among the Evening Primroses (CEnothera) a number of handsome species which are well worthy of wider are probably most successful if treated as rather tender " half-hardies." That is to say, it is wiser in most districts to bring them on early in a frame or even in a heated house and to put them out against a warm wall in May or June. They enjoy plenty of old cow manure and moisture. If a westerly aspect is given them, the flowers, which otherwise go off early in the day, will remain open till noon. The exquisite, clear blue tones of some of these Ipomceas remind one of the blue annual Pea (Lathyrus azureus), a delightful little climber of some 4ft. which will yield throughout the season a succession of large azure blossoms suffused with rosy tints. This may be sown where it is to grow and it ripens seed freely for the following year. Yet another good blue is that of a tiny annual of quite another kind, Sedum ceeruleum. A few pinches of its seed scattered about gritty, sunny spots in the rock garden will bring an ample reward. Some grow this charming little thing in cool, rather damp places, but we find full exposure A BEAUTIFUL WHITE EVERLASTING, RHODANTHE MACULATUM ALBA AT GRAVETYE. appreciation, CEnotheras triloba, Drummondii, odorata and maxima all being good and asking no more than ordinary half-hardy annual treatment. For a hot place, well drained, there are few annuals to approach in beauty Calandrinia grandi- flora, with its large, fleshy leaves in a peculiar jade green, red stems and big, crinkly poppy-like flowers in rose pink which nod at the tips of the i8in. stems. Once seen, this splendid Rock Purslane will never be omitted from the seed list. Readers who are not outraged at the presence of magenta may also try C. umbellata, treating it as an annual ; also the brilliant crimson, C. Lindleyana. Convolvulus minor (tricolor) affords a whole list of attractive colours — light and dark blue, rose, violet and white — all of which are good and easy and not usually exceeding rft. in height. These are attractive for the front of the border, where they can disport themselves among such plants as have gone out of flower — Aubrietias, for example. The same genus gives us the wonderful " Morning Glories " (C. major) with their gorgeous trumpets of various vivid colours which adorn the 10ft. stems from midsummer to the first frost, the indescribably lovely Ipomcea rubroccerulea and the exquisite blues of I. hederacea. These and a free soil gives more certain results, and under such conditions the leaves and stems become stained with a more brilliant crimson. Also for hot, dry situations in the rock garden or front of the border we have those diminutive (6in.) Eschscholtzias crespitosum and tenuifolium, with delicate, carrot-like foliage, faintly glaucous, and pale yellow flowers which open flat like a Buttercup. For association with these in sunny places the Leptosiphons are first-rate, especially LL. aureus, androsaceus and the hybrids, all of some 3ins. to 6ins. in height. Seed of these may be dispersed at random in dry walls, about steps or flagged walks, or along the margins of paths. Lasthenia, a pretty Californian annual in various shades of yellow and deep orange, is also useful for similar purposes. The velvety gentian blue of the Phacelias gives these latter high rank among the best of annuals, but they are not everybody's plants. Though not really difficult, even when sown direct in the open, Phacelia has not a good reputation with many. In our experience such kinds as PP. campanularia and Douglasia prefer a light, sandy soil and not too much sun. A spot that would suit their fellow countryman, Nemophila insignis, to which the Phacelias bear some resemblance, should 68 THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. satisfy them. The probability is that many failure may be attributed to slugs, which will travel far for Phacelia seedlings. In their own country (California) plants of this genus may often be seen cropping up in the ashes of forest fires (a hint here for the use of burnt soil and wood-ash) and not a few grow on calcareous soils in great abundance. Those who have a weakness for annuals of the " Everlasting " class should try some Rhodanthes, pretty, glaucous-leaved plants of about ift. which should be raised early under glass and pricked out young in good soil. R. Manglesii in rose and R. maculatum, vivid carmine, white and other colours are both reputable kinds. Erysimum Perofskianum, of ift. or more, will yield handsome racemes of orange yellow, wallflower-like blossoms towards the end of summer, and the clear rose Eucharidium Breweri, brought on in March and put out in masses later on, will give an effective and uncommon display. Perhaps the dahlia-like Cosmos bipinnatus is too well known to need mentioning here, but it is such a beautiful and useful plant for the autumn border that it should not be overlooked. Few annuals are more easily raised, but Cosmos, in all its various forms and colours, needs to be raised under glass, otherwise the season will be short. Statice sinuata hybrida, in a number of colours, is well worth growing. It should be treated as the last mentioned and grouped in the front of the border. The Linaria group provides us with several very lovely annuals of about ift. which do well sown in groups in the open ground in spring. L. multi-punctata, dark chocolate or black, speckled with yellow, is one of the prettiest. L. aurea- purpurea has flowers in various shades of rich orange and purple. L. bipartita var. splendida can also be recommended, and there are a number of very showy hybrids. All of these are easv, good-tempered plants in any free soil with full exposure. The Swan River Daisies (Brachycome) comprise another little family of annuals from Australia which grow to about 6ins. and fully reward one for the trouble of bringing them up in gentle heat, like Cosmos. A mixed packet will give a wonderful variety of bright colours, but those who prefer to grow the species apart may rely on BB. iberidi- folia in blue (Little Blue Star), the newer Summer Beauty (mauve), Snow Star and Purple King. For a hot, dry place Bartonia aurea (Mentzelia) is admirable, its big golden cups nestling in hand- some foliage. Nor should one omit a selection of the beautiful South African Arctotis. A. grandis is one of the finest of these with grey foliage and large daisy flowers with a lavender eye and long white rays starting from a yellow basal ring. A well grown plant of A. grandis will reach 2ft., but early sowing in heat is essential, and a warm spot when planting out should be chosen. Another annual of the same character, also from South Africa, is the Namaqualand Daisy (Dimorphotheca), a most attractive plant in all its forms, the soft shades of golden buff, orange, cream and salmon-pink of the several varieties being accentuated by a centre of black or other dark colour. D. aurantiaca, with orange- salmon rays and dark eye, is the type species of most of the hybrids. Sanvitalia procumbens is a' neat little yellow- Composite for late blooming, the double form being perhaps more effective than the single. Yet another of the same Daisy family is the Mexican Sphenogyne (Ursinia) speciosa, which will yield an abundance of blooms in the summer in shades of yellow varying from I to a golden buff. The habit is semi-prostrate, or spreading, the many slender growths rising to a height of about 6ins. In striking contrast to the flaming tints of the foregoing is the chaste and refined Omphalodes linifolia, with foliage of a cool sage grey, soft as kid, and large forget-me- not flowers in a glacier white. O. linifolia is so easy, such an everlasting bloomer and so curiously attractive that we are never without a few good groups of it. It grows to about ift., and may- be sown where intended to grow. In many- gardens it comes up year after year from its own September-sown seeds. The very charming campanula-like Specularia Speculum — dreadful name for a thing so sweet and modest ! — will also sow itself in 'favoured gardens, but where A GORGEOUS CLIMBING ANNUAL, CONVOLVULUS MAJOR. it does not, a fresh two-penn'orth of seed each spring should be everyone's resolve. S. Speculum is a slender habited, semi-trailing annual with bells of gorgeous violet. There is a form with blossoms much larger than those of the type, and a double one which is less pleasing than either of the singles. S. pentagonia we have not yet tried, but it is said to be admirable. For massing in groups for a bold effect, what is there in the taller annuals better than the Mallowworts (Malope) ? I have seen them well grown in beds, and they are first-rate for filling up blanks in the borders of late summer. M. grandi- flora is one of the most showy, the large, glossy flowers being a rich blood crimson in the type, satiny rose in the variety rosea and white in alba. Malopes may be sown in the open, but, like Hollyhocks, they enjoy good feeding and so- should have a deep, liberally prepared bed. They go up to about 2ft. Scabious may be mentioned here as being about the same height as the above and most useful for border work ; but, well known as the annual Scabious may be, it is not often that one sees other than the dull reds and crimsons. In addition to these there are some extremely handsome varieties in shades of coral, yellow and lavender, one named Fairy (if memory can be trusted) rivalling the superb S. caucasica in the exquisite delicacy of its blue-lavender flowers. The Pimpernels (Anagallis) include some fasci- nating little plants in a variety of rich colours — blue, purple and ruby red — and these may be easily grown in any vacant spots in the rock garden. Nor can one pass by the claims of Whitlavia grandiflora, perhaps one of the best things we have had from the home of gay annuals — California. W. grandiflora attains the height of some i2ins. and bears a crop of fine large bells in an intense blue. The species may be sown where it is intended to grow, a light, friable soil being desirable. With the mention of yet one more Californian this li?t must be closed, conscious as I am of many omissions. I refer to the splendid Argemone (Prickly Poppy), very choice and distinguished with its big, white, golden-centred Poppy flowers adorning its 2ft. stems. In its own favoured land Argemone grandiflora is, I think, perennial, but it is as an annual that most of us here must consider it. Even so, it is well worth the trouble of raising the seedlings in heat, well worth the choicest and warmest corner and the kindliest soil. A. T. J. THE WHITE 'PERUVIAN DAFFODIL' C^RS of summer-flowering bulbs should, when ordering, not omit to secure a few bulbs of the beautiful " Peru- vian Daffodil," Ismene calathina. The average garden dictionary quotes it as a stove and greenhouse plant, but in reality it flowers splendidly out of doors. The best plan is to pot up the bulbs about March and stand them in a cold frame. Growth is .somewhat slow to start, but by the latter end of May the foliage will be several inches high, and the plants may^ then be turned out. During June the growth is very rapid, and almost before one realises it the glorious snow white trumpet-shaped flowers are out, each stem bearing two. The flowers are not unlike a Daffodil in shape, but the perianth segments are narrow in comparison with the trumpet. Moreover, the stamens are not in close touch with the pistil, as on the Daffodil, but are attached to the inner side of the trumpet. Any ordinary soil is suitable, and on fairly light soils the bulbs may be planted in the open when dormant. Indeed, to keep up a succession, it is a good plan to pot up the first batch and plant others in the open when planting Gladioli. Of course, this delightful, yet rarely seen bulb makes a fine pot plant. Like other members of the Amaryllis family it is increased by offsets. The bulbs should be lifted by early October and thoroughly dried off, as only by forcing them to rest can they be made to flower annually. The bulbs are quite cheap ; certainly no more costly than corms of a good Gladiolus. T. A. W. February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 69 ALPINES AT CHISLEHURST A CASUAL word from an alpine lover who had been there sent the Editor recently to visit the Chislehurst nursery of Mr. G. G. Whitelegg. It is a long while since he remembers time passing so quickly as it did while, in company with Mr. Whitelegg himself, he made the tour of the frames and houses devoted to alpines. It was only when he had finished the inspection and came to collect his impressions that he realised what a very large proportion of the plants were what one considers choice alpines and how very con- siderable a proportion of the stock represents really scarce plants. At the time of the Editor's visit stocks of Aubrietias, the commoner Mossy Saxifrages and similar furnishing plants were doubtless at rather a low ebb, for such things are planted mostly in autumn, winter and early spring. An immense number of the best varieties of Aubrietia were, indeed, in the propagating cases, and an especially good strike was in evidence. Still, ebb or flow, the Editor must have seen plants which could (given time ! ) be numbered by the hundred thousand, and an overwhelming proportion represented really choice alpines — Kabschia and Engleria Saxifrages with some of the very choicest of the Encrusted section, Ramondias, Gentians, Haberleas, choice Primulas, the better Alpine Pinks, Silene acaulis, Potentilla nitida, Aquilegia pyrenaica and A. glandulosa vera, Asperulas, choice Campanulas, the choicest Drabas, Incar- villeas, Lithospermums, Onosmas, alpine Ranun- culi, Sempervivums, . including the strange S. spinosum (more accurately Cotyledon spinosa), Shortias and Soldanellas. Now for a few detailed impressions ! The choicer Saxifrages are evidently favourites of Mr. Whitelegg. Among the Encrusted sorts a very fine batch of specimen longifolias, owing to their size, claimed first attention, but a moment later a stock of a form of S. Cotyledon with huge rosettes proved even more interesting. Broader in the leaf than the plant generally known as S. icelandica and even larger in the rosette, this splendid form is known as S. C. platyphyll.i. Some hybrids of Saxi- fraga longifolia of Mr. Whitelegg's own raising were also very attractive. Attractive, at any rate, as regards foliage, for some of them were as yet undowered. These were large rosetted sorts, quite different from the fine longifolia hybrid Cecil Davis, also stocked, which has comparatively small rosettes. Of the more ordinary " Encrus- teds " there is little need to write. Coming to the Kabschia varieties, the Chislehurst nurseries contain a good stock of Saxifraga valdensis, which is not S. cochlearis minor. Mr. Whitelegg, indeed, prides himself upon the trueness of his stock, and points, with pride to true stocks of such plants as Draba imbricata, Aquilegia alpina, and AA. pyrenaica and glandulosa. Out of a host of other tufted sorts, including such ex- cellent hybrids as Petra- schii, Paulina1, Faldon- side, Cherry Trees, etc., ' we remember noticing SS. Boydii, thessalica (vera) and lilacina, the two former because, whatever cata- logues may suggest to the contrary, they are uncom- mon and the last because of its minuteness. • ^j ^- C © •■■■'** A * 0 i . T . .' - - *•■"■ ; • • • -"• . ■" THE BEAUTIFUL SUB-SHRUBBY WHITE-FLOWERED DRYAS OCTOPETALA. THE EXQUISITE BLUE AQUILEGIA ALPINA VERA. Saxifraga lilacina bears to the ordinary run of Tufted Saxifrages the same relationship that, among the Porphyrions, the close-growing S. retusa bears to the more luxuriant forms of S. oppositifolia. Mention of S. oppositifolia brings to mind Mr. Whitelegg's opinion that of all the oppositifolia forms S. o. W. A. Clark is the best and finest. While inspecting Saxifrages a few plants of a miniature conifer, obviously a Tsuga, but unknown to the Editor, attracted attention. This is the rare Tsuga Albertiana conica. It is only fair to state that Mr. Whitelegg has a very fine lot of miniature conifers of many kinds, including beautiful plants of Cupressus obtusa nana and some fine specimens — 9ft. or 10ft. across — of Juniperus prostrata. There are thousands of Ramondias, including a batch of the rare but not specially beautiful pink form. Some of these plants are collected specimens, others from seeds, but all in full health and vigour. Of Aquilegia pyrenaica, again, a large breadth and many thousands of tiny seed- lings which will be splendid plants by another season. The beautiful Ranunculus glacialis is another plant of which a large stock is held, while there are also several hundreds of plants of Primula integrifolia, some of them, so Mr. Whitelegg said, splendid colour forms. In another house, mostly noteworthy for thousands upon thousands of the best and choicest Cam- panulas, from the glorious Allionii and the tiny Waldsteiniana to' such beauties as pulla and pulloides, one paused instinctively to query a batch of unidentified growing points just piercing the soil. These, it seems, represented the tiny rhizomatous Iris arenaria, with soft yellow 70 THE GARDEN. [February io, 192;,. Rowers, a plant about which Mr. Whitelegg waxed enthusiastic. Attaining a height of only ;ins. or so, an established plant will continue to produi e its attractive blossoms for a period of six weeks in springtime. It was here or hereabouts that a healthy batch of Kurume Azaleas attracted attention, mainly the splendid varieties Hido- manyo and Hinode-giri. The nursery holds a very large stock of the Candelabra Primulas — PP. helodoxa, Bulleyana, pulverulenta, pulveru- lenta hybrids (Lissadell, Ailia Aroon, etc.) and japonica — and also of Gentians. Of these last Mr. Whitelegg's favourite is G. Lagodcchiana, and who shall say that he displays bad i The lovely Lithospermum rosmarinifolium is another favourite. What a pity that it is not truly hardy in most counties. One could write pages about other interesting plants, especially the tiny seedlings of all sorts of choice alpines, including Saxifrages, Primulas. Kamondias, Haberleas — wonderful batches — Gentians, etc., always attractive to an alpine lover, but we must forbear. Enough has already been written to shew that for anyone who xeally knows and loves alpines a visit to the Chislehurst nursery now would provide a treat. Those with perhaps equal enthusiasm but less knowledge would be wiser to wait a few weeks until there is a greater show of bloom. SPRING FLOWERS AT VINCENT SQUARE IN the unofficial opinion of the chairman 1 1 the Floral Committee a record was created at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on January 30 in that there was not even one solitary novelty plant or Bower for his committee to sit upon in judgment. Nor can we, in a considerable experience of R.H.S. meetings, recall such another blank day in this respect, though we remember on a dull day in drear December some years back when, in response to the expressed desire of certain Fellows, the Council called the committees together on a Tuesday before Christmas in order that no valuable novelty should go un- certificated because it was so misguided as to bloom during that four weeks or. so when rro R.H.S. meetings are held. On that occasion one solitary plant, devoid of merit, was sent, so the experiment was not repeated. On the present occasion no award was made to a novelty by the Fruit and Vegetable Committee, but the Orchid Committee made several awards to new Orchids. The exact number is somewhat a matter. for conjecture. The official list, which was posted on the notice board in the vestibule, gave the names of three new varieties and their exhibitors, but in the hall only one could be found, though two' other varieties had award of merit cards, but their names were totally different from those on the official list. The floral groups in the hall were of a decidedly spring-like character, and although several exhibitors had for various reasons to cry off at the last moment, it was quite a bright .ind interesting show. The vacant places were filled with exhibits of garden sundries, photographs and paintings of flowers and garden scenes. The most valuable and interesting exhibit in this category contained water-colour drawings of British fungi by the late Mrs. Richard Gill. These were of great artistii merit and correctly named. Mr. R. II. Malby had a wonderful col- lection of photographs of Cones on their branchets, mainly of Pine, Fir, Spruce and Cedar. Among the flowers tin- early Irises were very prominent. Iris reticulata and 1. tingitana were well shewn by main exhibitors; while Messrs. William Cutbush and Sons had particularly good plants of the dwarf, sweetly scented Iris Sind-pers. Messrs. Carter and Co. made an artistic display with large bowls "I Iris tingitana, Primula malacoides Princess Mary and Cynthella Hyacinths. Iris tingitana is increasingly popular The early Primulas were also of more than passing interest. Messrs. Bakers, Limited, arranged a splendid batch of Primula Wanda, which 1- much like a larger and deeper coloured P. Julia; and quite as free-flowering. The latter sort was also present in agreeable quantity. Messrs. Carter Page and Co. shewed it with Wilson's Blue Primrose, while Messrs. R. Tucker and Sons associated it with the fascinating Primula Winteri WHITE-FLOWERED CAMELLIA SNOWFLAKE. which Messrs. R. Gill and Son shewed with that earliest Rhododendron Nobleanum and R. argen- iiuin. Anemone blanda atroccerulea, Arabis aubrietioides (bearing a goodly quantity of pink mauve-flushed flowers), Soldanella alpina, Saxi fraga Burseriana Gloria and Adonis amurensis were very interesting among the alpine plants. The last named was shewn by Messrs. Wallace and Co., who again staged pans of the early Crocus species, excellent conifers and plants of the beautiful pink Schizostylis Mrs. Hegarty. A brilliant batch of Anemone fulgens near a pan of Crocu~ Susianus was shewn by Messrs. Waterer, Sons and Crisp. Some interesting varieties of the less-known Hellebores were contributed by Messrs. Barr and Sons, with alpines and pots of double Daffodils. The Hellebores included H. graveolens ruber and H. antiquorum roseum. The white " Christmas Rose " was well repre- sented by H. niger maximus, which Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbert arranged with their welcome Cynthella Hyacinths. Camellias were again well shewn by Messrs. Chaplin Brothers, who have taken over Messrs. Paul's stock. Their neat plants were well flowered and, besides many doubles of merit, included Mars, a very large semi- double of reticulata colour ; Waltham Glory, a brilliant single; Snowflake, an excellent pure white single ; and the semi-double red Apollo. Many good plants of Azalea indica varieties were associated with floriferous little bushes of Prunus triloba by Messrs. L. R. Russell. Limited. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co. also had some Azaleas with their Acacias and winter-flowering Begonias adjoining the larger collection of Carnations. Cherry Ripe and the pink Eileen Low were very attractive, while Sheila Greer, a pale apricot and rose-coloured fancy Carnation, was highly decorative. Among the large collection of Carnations by Messrs. Allwood Brothers the vases of brilliant blooms of Edward Allwood were very prominent. Vivid, a new variety which suggests a Mary Allwood of flatter shape and much deeper colour, was very bright. Vegetables were represented by a collection of Leeks from the Society's Wisley Gardens and some eighty baskets of Potatoes from Messrs. Sutton and Sons. These were all splendid tubers, and the coloured varieties interested many visitors, who seemed surprised to see in the cut tubers that the deep colour of Black Prince was continued in the flesh. Royal Purple, Eightyfold, Mr. Breese, Reading Russet and Border Queen are the names of a few others of the coloured tubers. The very manv white Potatoes were also of excellent quality. The Leeks were well grown examples of varieties which had received awards at the Wisley trials. NEW AND RARE PLANTS. Brasso-Cattleya Helen.— In colouring this hybrid Orchid favours the Cattleya, but the purplish mauve is rather brighter and clearer February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 71 than is usual in that genus. The broad, elegantrj fringed lip is of the same colour as the remainder of the flower, but is enhanced by the patch of old gold on the basal throat. Award of merit to .Mr. J. \V. Bird. Cypripedium Dulcis Lambeau's Variety. — An exceedingly handsome Lady's Slipper Orchid of rather more than medium size. Its chief beauty lies in the large dorsal sepal, which is beautifully waved and broadly margined with white ; the colour is warm chocolate, shading to rosy purple. The wings and lip are coloured green and brown, and the former are margined with greenish yellow. A very healthy ami vigorous plant of this green-leaved variety was shewn. First-class certificate to M. Firmin Lambeau. Odontoglossum Llewellyn. — The plant bure a magnificent spike of well formed flowers set at regular intervals. The general colour is rich chocolate, and this is lightened by white markings and a broad white tip to the lip. Award of Merit to Messrs. Charlesworth and Co. A HORTICULTURAL MARVEL A Red Letter Day for Prepared Hyacinths. READERS of old books about garden matters are conversant with the numerous receipts that are given with all seriousness to produce horticultural * wonders of different kinds. I give one as an example from Adam Speed's " Adam out of Eden." The second edition of this small book was published in 1659 and Chapter XVIII is headed " To make five sorts of Roses grow upon one Stock without inoculation." This is how it was to be done. " When they begin to knot, bore with an Aul under the knot, and with a feather put Green in one, and Yellow in another, Red in the third, and Blew in the fourth, and close up all the holes handsomely." One smiles and wonders. More smiles and more wondering when, a few- pages on, we are told how- to produce yellow Roses. " The roots of Roses with their slips and knots removed and set amongst Broom, will bring forth yellow Roses." These I venture to think are marvels of the imagination only — perhaps my friend Mr. McGredy will correct me if this is how lie produced his now famous Christine. The display at Haarlem, of which two views are given on this page, fore-dated spring by a good many weeks and was a real marvel. To have Hyacinths and Tulips in such perfection and in such quantities as were to be seen in the horticultural hall in that town on December 23, 1922, would have been almost unthinkable at the beginning of the present century, but I believe a similar display could be made any year now, not only in Holland, but in England. The Tulips are those which experiment has shewn to be most amenable to this verv earlv flowering, helped with bottom heat and perhaps with some shade, if not total darkness, for a short time. The Hyacinths were all " Prepared Bulbs," and the display on Decem- ber 23 last shews how great has been the advance in the methods of preparation. I can only say from my own personal experience what a valuable asset these pre- pared Hyacinths are to our gamut of early forced bulbs, even if they are treated exactly as ordinary ones and no special forcing treatment has been given them. The following are the names of the best Hyacinths and Tulips shewn. Hyacinths. — White : Mad. Kruger, LTnnocence, Arentine Arendsen, Hein Roozen. Blue : Fiirst Bismark, Gloria Florum Supreme (double), Lord Nelson (double), Gen. van der Heyden, Schotel, Yerdi (large white centre, bold truss). Red and Rose : Yan Tubergens Scarlet, Feu de l'Empire, Victor Emanuel, Nimrod, Maria Catharina. Purple and Yellow tion (deep purple), Laura (lilac), Yellow Hammer (yellow). Single and Double Tulips. — Due van Tholl (all varieties), Vermilion Brillant, Brillant Star, Mon Tresor, Rose Precoce, Salvator Rosa, Le Matelas, El Toreador, Fred Moore, Maes, Tournesol. PREPARED HYACINTHS AT CHRISTMAS TIME. Moreno, Distinc- Golden King, King of Yellows, Diana, L'Esperance, Lady Boreel, La Reine. Joseph Jacob. A " SPRING BORDER, Both pictures taken at Haarlem Show on December 23 last. A SWEET PEA SELECTION FOR 1923 THERE may still be many readers of The Garden who have not yet made their final selection of Sweet Peas for the coming season. The present is a suitable time to sow the seeds under glass. My choice of varieties in the following article is not intended as a selection of the best, for that is almost impossible when individual tastes differ so much and when there are so many varieties nowadays of almost equal merit, but the list of names represents a large proportion of the most popular standard varieties and one or two of the outstanding novelties that I have found to be good. Unlike many Roses, most Sweet Peas are equally useful for exhibition and garden decoration, but a few of the varieties are not capable of giving blooms large enough to win in strong competition, while the salmon, orange, orange-pink and orange- scarlet varieties need shading, which is sometimes rather detrimental from a decorative standpoint, so that, where necessary, I will give a variety specially recommended for the exhibitor and an alternative kind for garden decoration. A white is usually desired, except by growers who live in smoky districts, where it would be preferable to substitute a cream variety. Constance 72 THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. Hinton is undoubtedly the best white for exhibition on account of its great size and fine broad standard. It is always a good plan to grow a few extra plants of this variety, as some of the flowers are very faintly tinted with pink (although it must be said that the best stocks now have a very small pro- portion of these). Constance Hinton is a brown seeded white and it may never be possible to obtain an absolutely pure stock. In a wet or cold period Constance Hinton is not very reliable, as the young blooms have a greenish edge, but this gradually passes off as the flower opens. In a sunny season it is superb. Edna May Improved is the best pure white, and I would recommend it for general garden cultivation. It is a vigorous grower and gives some fine long-stemmed flowers. A lavender is indispensable in an up-to-date selection. It depends whether rosy-lavender or pure lavender is preferred. Some say that the rosy tint gives a warm, pleasing effect, others that it is not as delicate as a self colour. Austin Frederick Improved and the old favourite, R. F. Felton, are both good rosy lavenders. I think I should choose the former if I had to decide between the two. Both are very vigorous growers and give four bloomed sprays in plenty. For a pure lavender it would be difficult to find a better choice than the novelty Powerscourt, which is certain to be one of the great Sweet Peas of the season. These three lavenders are good for all purposes. I would recommend Matchless as the best cream for the exhibitor. It has entirely superseded Felton's Cream, being as vigorous and more frilly in the standard. Although Matchless can be used for decorative work I think I should prefer the pretty edged and flushed cream-ground Mrs. Wakefield for the garden, especially now that Mr. Unwin offers a new and much improved stock. It is a charming variety for table work. Mrs. Tom Jones requires a fine season to bring out its bright blue colour. Then it has no equal. I choose it as No. 4 both for exhibition and garden. Picture is such a delightful companion for it in the stand — I would always place them near each other, preferably in a front row — that it must come as the next choice. Its lovely deep cream-pink colouring, its great size and the ease with which four-bloomed sprays can be produced make it one of the most popular Sweet Peas in commerce. I have found that its colour improves if only soot water is used for feeding purposes in the flowering season. For those who prefer a pale cream-pink I cannot recommend a better variety than Cecily, a very fine all round variety. It is difficult to say which will prove the better scarlet-cerise, the well known Royal Scot or the novelty Wonderful. One of them should be in every collection, as not only is the colour so rich, but both varieties are perfectly sunproof. If you believe in old favourites choose Royal Scot, ii you prefer the novelty I feel confident that Wonderful will not disappoint. Doris is my seventh choice. Like Royal Scot and Wonderful it is one of those rich, telling colours that does not fade in the hottest sunshine. A good grower, a sure four-bearer and the blooms well placed on long stems, this fine pale cerise or cherry-pink has many years before it. Under artificial light it is exquisite. I have always considered that Hawlmark Pink lias been rather disappointing, but now that there are some very tine stocks on the market it is worth growing for those unique, richly coloured pink blooms that instantly arrest attention. Even the best stocks give a few paler tinted Bowers and the variety rather lacks vigour. One hardly knew, whether to give eighth place to it or Hebe, an improved Hercules and a very line exhibition variety, or Elegance, a beautiful lilac-blush, one of the most refined Sweet Peas we have. No. 9 must be a dark variety, for the maroons supply the necessary balance of colour in a stand, and they are effective if mixed (in a small propor- tion), with a white, cream or salmon variety. I recommend The Sultan for the exhibitor. Its glistening black-maroon will contrast well with the lighter shades. It is a very vigorous grower, has big blooms, mostly in fours on huge stems, while it seems to have all the qualities of a first- class variety. If a chocolate maroon is preferred I would suggest Warrior, now very well known. Few will disagree with my choice of Charity (crimson) and Royal Purple for tenth and eleventh places, respectively. Both are good growers, distinct colours and useful for all purposes. My last choice is Tangerine Improved for the exhibitor. Its colour, so aptly described in the name, is one of the loveliest shades we have in Sweet Peas. Alas ! it is not easy to grow, for it is not very vigorous and requires shading ; but when it is grown on a single stem and protected from the sun it will repay a little extra care. I think I should suggest either Valentine (blush-pink) or Annie Ireland (white, with a Picotee edge of pink), in place of it for garden decoration. The latter is one of the daintiest of Sweet Peas. For keen competition all varieties should be grown on the " cordon system," but after the shows are over they can be allowed to grow away freely when they will provide plenty of cut flowers, and in a favourable season, finish well above the supports. Norman Lambert. NOTES OF THE WEEK A RECENT visit to Kew Gardens con- firmed a previous impression that, despite the mild winter, many plants are distinctly backward this season. This is particularly the case with alpines which, even under glass, are far more backward than one would expect. The plants in the Alpine House, in fact, seem more backward than those in the frames, which probably affords an explanati< >n of the phenomenon. A spell — even a short one — of hard weather would have " put the plants to sleep," and they would now be less drowsy ! Primula Winteri Outdoors. — Everyone — at any rate, every lover of choice hardy plants — knows that Primula Winteri is hardy and knows also that is does not succeed outdoors ! A little colony of plants, which have now had practically twelve months outdoors, is therefore of special interest. These are planted quite under the shade of Sargent's weeping form of the Canadian Hemlock — Tsuga canadensis Sargentii — and owing to the umbrella shape of the tree are quite immune from drip. The plants certainly look healthy, not to say robust. No visitor to Kew interested in the plant should fail to look out for them in the rock garden. Snowdrops. — To most people, even to many keen gardeners, Snowdrops are very welcome harbingers of spring, and of their form and colouring they have quite a clear idea. That there are quite a number of species and varieties does not occur to one simply because — excluding the rather bloated double ones — they are so much alike. Yet some forms are finer than others and, what is even more important, some are decidedly earlier than others. The beautiful and early Galanthus Elwesii is, at any rate, in a good form, admirable, but it needs a little more shelter than the forms of G. nivalis or the very closely related G. Imperati, which is illustrated and which is extremely beautiful. One of the most distinct of Snowrdrops is G. latifolius, with foliage almost broad enough for a Tulip. Box Hill. — We publish on another page an appeal from the Editor of Country Life for funds to round off the National Estate at Box Hill. It is essential for the public enjoyment of the land already given that the area now offered by Lord Francis Hope should be saved from the hands of those who would disfigure one of England's most precious beauty spots with unsightly erections, such as are already springing up in the neighbour- hood. Box Hill may be looked upon as a National garden — indeed, many gardeners might learn much as to the arrangement of trees, shrubs and plants from a visit there — and we confidently commend to all garden lovers the purchase of this additional area as an entirely worthy object and one of lasting benefit to the communitv. THE WIDE-SKIRTED GALANTHUS IMPERATI . February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 73 NOTES ON DAFFODILS A FINE NEW WHITE TRUMPET DAFFODIL. — Xarcissus Everest, illus- trated herewith, was shewn by the Donard Nursery Company of Newcastle, ^ Co. Down, at the Midland Daffodil Society's Show at Birmingham last April, when it gained a unanimous award of merit. It was much commented on, and was in my opinion one of the very finest things at the show. The flower is pure white throughout and is of fine waxy texture, having broad, well formed perianth standing at right angles to the trumpet, which is beautifully finished with a neat flange at the brim ; perhaps its most striking feature was its tallness. White trumpets are, un- fortunately, rather short- stemmed as a general rule, but I should say that the stem of this variety must have been about aoins. in length. It is an early bloomer. The Narcissus Fly. — I have never had serious trouble with this pest here, as it is probably not so much at home in our rather cold, wet and cloudy climate as in districts that enjoy a considerably greater amount of sun- shine ; however, I have usually had a few odd bulbs destroyed by it, and a method of dealing with it which I have just tried with apparent suc- cess may be of interest. It has been my practice to go over the Daffodil- beds any time between November and the end of January, when top growth is well started, very carefully uncovering the tops of all the bulbs row by row with the assistance of a boy, the boy working on one side of the bed and myself on the other simultaneously. When the bulbs are thus uncovered it is quite easy with a very little practice or experience to detect any bulb or nose of a bulb which has not sent up its strong white shoot or whose growth is in any way defective or sickly-looking so as to give rise to suspicion. Where the growth has failed to come from a nose, it will almost always be found if the bulb or offset is taken up and split open that it contains a Merodon grub. I have found them in all stages of development, from such a small size that some care- is required to find them up to full grown. Each row of bulbs is, of course, covered again after examination before proceeding to the next. By this method I think that very few, if any, grub-infested bulbs escape detection, and it must certainly be very effective in reducing the number of flies provided that they have no other adjacent breeding-ground. In the winter of 1921-22 following on the hot, dry summer of 1921, which ■was doubtless exceptionally favourable to the fly, we found a greater number of grubs than usual, so in addition to the above method of attack we adopted a plan of defence as follows : Throughout the growing season the soil is kept constantly cultivated between the rows of bulbs ; this was done very thoroughly, with frequent fork- ings last spring ; and just when the flowers were over, the weather being dry at the time, we gave NEW WHITE DAFFODIL EVEREST. the beds a final thorough and fairly deep forking, but not deep enough to disturb the roots. After this the loose soil was drawn up with the hands into little ridges as high as possible against the rows of plants and carefully packed as closely as possible around the foliage to prevent the fly crawling down the holes left by withering stems and foliage to the bulbs, which are thus, for the time being, more deeply buried than usual. This operation is very simple, and can be carried out a good deal more quickly than might be supposed when the soil is dry. When the foliage had died down it was raked off, the little ridges levelled, and the beds again forked over. The frequent forking and disturbing of the surface soil is in itself undoubtedly a safeguard, as any stray egg or minute newly hatched grub is likely to be put beyond reach of its objective thereby. The result of our efforts has been most satis- factory, for, when we began our usual hunt for grubs this winter by uncovering the bulbs, about a month or six weeks ago, we could not find a single grub-infested bulb, although large numbers were carefully searched. Last season was, doubtless, less favourable to the propagation of the fly than the preceding one, but the complete absence of grubs can scarcely be attributed to that here, as I found two in a small bed which I fancy had been over- looked when earthing up in another garden where I grow some of my Daffodils about half a mile from here. Whether our success was mainly due to our having exterminated most of the flies in the grub stage by the bulb to bulb search in the winter of 1921-22 or to the defensive method of carefully forking the surface soil and well earthing up the foliage last spring it is difficult to say ; but I am rather inclined to give most credit to the latter operation — which has the merit of being much more easily and quickly done — -as, when the former only had been carried out in previous seasons, grubs were never completely absent, as they appear to be this winter. Broughshane, Co. Antrim. Guy L. Wilson. A ROCK GARDEN INDEED SO many beauties of nature have been swamped by the ever-rising tide of villas and hotels on this sunny coast that it is pleasant to state there is a spot — indeed, a unique one — high up among the rocks under the Crag of Monaco where true taste and the art of the gardener have successfully added to the natural flora and created a new world, one may say. To anyone entering this rock-bound area, where the late Prince of Monaco commenced a garden for Cacti and succulents some thirty years ago, the spectacle of tall, columnar and branching Cacti that have now grown to the stature of trees is startling in itself, and the bright red fruits, with which they are so plentifully adorned add to the strange effect. That is, however, a mere beginning to the wonders to be found as you advance. During all these years the late Prince and his excellent gardener, M. Gastaud, have been collect- ing plants and seeds from Mexico, Peru, the Cape, the Canaries and other far-distant lands and, not content with merely planting them, have been busily engaged in making new hybrids and care- fully making selections from the seedlings they have raised. To do justice to it needs another pen than mine, but any account, however in- adequate, is better than none. The garden is so high up and so inaccessible till these new roads have been made that it has been but little visited. No doubt the Prince was glad to have a retreat where he could get away from the crowd and feel as if he were travelling in a far-off land ! What may happen under the new ruler I do not know, but I sincerely trust it may be kept up, as there is nothing to compare with it in variety and! richness. The flowering Aloes and succulents, the weird Cacti, the strange Euphorbias and Senecios must be seen to be appreciated. Perhaps one of the most striking things is the way some of these succulents mimic the growth and general effect of Fir trees or other evergreens. In par- ticular, some of the Phyllocacti, with their upright growth and flat tiers of* spreading branches, recall a young Araucaria or some other conifer so closely that at first sight one wonders why such a tree should grow here. The mimicry of some of the Euphorbias is well known, of course ; it takes an expert to decide at first sight whether it be Cactus or Spurge till you cut it, when the milky sap tells its own tale. Here, indeed, there are wonders enough for the wisest of men, and the flowering of the Aloes in February will give a blaze of colour as great as any bed of Geranium or Tritoma can give in August in northern gardens ; while the variety in stature and mode of growth are a delight to the eye of the artist and the discerning 74 THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. gardener. Cactus, Cereus, Phyllocactus, Echino- cactus, Kleinia, Mamillaria, Mesembryanthcmum, Sedum, Senecio and many another genus or species are all there with their hybrids in bewildering variety. As a rule one may say each is more thorny than its neighbour and unassailable to the toughest customer in the desert from which they spring. I should doubt if the horny hoof of even a mule could succeed in breaking through the array of spines that protect the juicy globes of these desert plants that store up sap where no water can be found. To sit down hastily in this garden would be a disaster, so the Prince has kindly provided seats at intervals in the ascent. We have all heard of " stony griefs," but here there are " thorny joys " as well, a combination rarely met with and one that will live long in the memory of Xicc. E. H. Woodall. BULBS FOR SPRING PLANTING M ' UCH that is really essential in the flower garden during the late summer and autumn is supplied by bulbous and tuberous - rooted plants that may be planted in early spring. Among these. Gladioli are worthy of first mention, to be closely followed by the newer Montbretias. The Cape Hyacinth, Galtonia candicans. is quite distinct and handsome withal ; while for Liliams. particularly the speciosum group, no praise is too high. Other species of a dwarfer nature there are. but on this occasion our concern is for the taller and more gorgeous of these, which should be planted towards the end of March and beginning of April. The modern Gladioli are stately plants, much superior in every way to the majority of those in commerce throughout the greater part of the last century. They have been kept up with the times by those who are alive to their possibilities. By careful breeding and selection the weak-habited, washed-out coloured varieties have been gradually removed, so that at the present time there is hardly a named sort in the catalogue of a reputable firm that is not worthy of its place in any garden. Some of these have 3ft. long flower-spikes, as much as half of which is closely studded with vivid-coloured flowers which open in their turn from the base upwards, a process taking up considerable time, thereby enhancing their value not only in the garden, but for cutting. Scarlet, pink, yellow and blue are all now available, and it would be difficult to imagine a garden where their free use would not greatly enhance its early autumn charm. In conjunction with perennial Phloxes, with many annuals and carpeting plants, or in combination with the white - belled, Galtonia candicans. already alluded to, it is only a question of blending or contrasting their colours as individual taste may prefer, in order to obtain beds and borders rich in beauty with the lea^t possible amount of trouble. To fill in the dull spots in the herbaceous border, which cannot be avoided if spring and early summer flowering plants are- employed. Gladioli are invaluable. They may be planted, assuming the soil to be in fair condition, without the necessity for much disturbance of the plants near, and in colonies of sixes or nines, according to the width of the border. Nothing that is now available for planting in a dormant state is more reliable or more beautiful. No less remarkable has been the advance during the last decade or so of Montbretias. Nearly every lover of hardy flowers is familiar with the perennial occupant of old flower borders M crocosma?flora and its varieties, with their small spikes of orange-coloured flowers, which invariably failed to open out fully, as if afraid of too close inspection. That they were permitted to reign in many cases was because their requirements were of a simple order, and they were hardy in the extreme. It is perhaps not too much to say of the newer hybrids that, both in habit of growth and flowers, they are Gladioli in miniature ; but they are much more artistic, since the spikes are lighter and, though branching, are not heavy. In accordance with all this is the setting of the flowers — they do not overcrowd. Reference has already been made to the shortcomings of the flowers of the old species, but in the new hybrids these have given place to a fully expanding type 3ins'. to 41ns. across. Some of them are quite flat, and with age have a tendency to recurve, thus revealing the richness of their markings in the best possible manner. Star of the East, Germania. Prometheus and George Davidson are but a few, typical of many, possessing the foregoing qualities at a reasonable price, and which justly entitles them to a place among the choicest plants for garden decoration, while for cutting they have few equals. In order to enable these to give of their best it is most esseitial to bear in mind that they are vigorous growers and bear no com- parison to the retiring disposition of the old species. Thev must be liberally treated in the matter of soil preparation, and on no account allowed to suffer through lack of moisture at their roots. Of equal importance is it that they should be lifted and stored during the winter in a similar manner to Gladioli. With a host of Lilies to select from the reason for preference being given to the speciosum group is that there is less likelihood of them proving disappointing, since they are of the easiest culti- vation, having none of the likes and dislikes of soil, situation and locality of some of those generally recognised as garden varieties. All the popular sorts comprising this fascinating group are now being imported freely and the bulbs are of good quality. A great many find their way into pots for greenhouse decoration, but in many parts of the garden they are welcome additions to the ranks of early autumn flowerers. In common with other Lilies they revel in a light sandy loam, and time spent in preparing stations for them is amply repaid. They are stem rooting, and the bulbs should be planted rather deep in consequence and be covered with the lightest soil. In Galtonia or Hyacinthus, candicans, we have one of the best bulbs for present planting. In the mass their towering white spikes, over 4ft. in height, are very effective. For grouping among early - flowering shrubs or at the back of the herbaceous border few things are more useful. As with Lilies, the bulbs should rest on and be surrounded with sandy soil, and they should be put some jins. below the surface. J: T. THE SNOWFLAKES BEST of all the spring-flowering Snow- flakes — if one excepts the charming Leucojum nicaense (illustrated in our last issue), which is too particular in its requirements for outdoor culture in Britain — is the plant illustrated below, which, botanically a variety of L. vernum, is, from a garden standpoint, entirely distinct. The blossoms are a beautiful warm creamy white, very welcome at this season when, though vegetation is awakening, it is still far from wakeful. Each flower segment is attractively tipped with gold. By comparison with this treasure the typical Spring Snowflake, L. vernum, is a coarse plant, yet taken on its own merits it is a very desirable plant, bolder and showier than the Snowdrops and quite as early to flower. It takes a year or so to establish imported bulbs. but, once established, it is an easy doer in light soil, not deficient of humus, and increases rapidly. It succeeds quite Well in the border in sunny woodland, but is perhaps seen to best advantage on a sunny ledge in the rock garden. The so-called Summer Snowflake, which actually flowers in late spring, bears clusters of snowdrop- like blossoms on stems up to 2ft. tall. It is an interesting-looking, though old-fashioned plant. A BEAUTIFUL FORM OF THE SPRING SNOWFLAKE — LEUCOJUM VERNUM CARPATICUM. February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 75 CORRESPONDENCE SPOTTINESS IN PLANTING. T N your issue of January 27 there is an illustration of a water garden bearing underneath the words " admirably planned and planted." I wonder if other readers besides myself felt that there was something wrong with the picture, that the words were not perfectly appropriate. There is so much to be learnt from looking at garden pictures. I have been looking carefully at this one and asking myself why it seemed, to my judgment, unsatisfactory. Do not you think the planting needs simplifying and broaden- ing ? Look, for instance, at that one plume of — is it Stenanthium ? — on the right. If the plant had been massed it would have looked right enough, as it is it looks like a botanical specimen just in the sort of place where such specimens look most out of place. In front of this is a clump of some half a dozen roots of a Bearded Iris. Would not it have been far better to have had a much larger planting of a water-loving Iris such as sibirica, Emperor or Snow Queen or Ktempferi Morning Mists ? The single clump of Funkia (Sieboldi ?) on the bank opposite would look fine if better placed, but here seems merely an unrelated " spot plant." The big Spirtea ariiefolia is splendid, of course, and so is the dark background ; but, apart from these features, much of the planting seems (to judge merely from a photograph) to lack something of the breadth that streamside planting generally calls for. I send you this note not, of course, as a criticism of the delightful illustrations in The Garden, but simply as an amateur's analysis of one picture. Some other reader, perhaps, will be sufficiently amused to turn up the back number and see if he agrees with my comment. I was so glad to see in the same number what you say about the different qualities of white in border flowers, and about the un- pleasant effect of overlarge masses of cold white. A few more warm whites occur to me as perhaps worth adding to your list : Camassia Leichtlinii alba (excellent with single scarlet Pjeonies), Hyacinthus candicans, of course, and Yucca filamentosa flaccida. A long-flowering little shrub, useful in the border, is Farrer's white natural hybrid of Porentilla fruticosa. Poppy Perry's White is beautiful in colour. — A Painter. [Without seeing the garden from which a picture is taken, one is at some disadvantage in criticising the planting. To the Editor the little glade shewn seems too small for very large clumps of plants. Probably the plants shewn are outlines of larger groupings in the background. In which case their presence needs little justification, yet on looking carefully at the picture again probably " admirably planned " would be a more fitting title to the picture than the one given. The arrangement of the stones in the bed of the little stream is certainly much above the average. — Ed.] THE .MILD WINTER. '"PHIS is not by any means a warm district, but this is an exceptional winter here as elsewhere. I enclose a spray of parsley-leaved Blackberry growing on a wall with an eastern aspect which has been flowering for several weeks, and has even managed to set some fruit. — W. H. St. Quintin, Scampslon Hall, Yorks. [The spray of parsley-leaved Blackberry, Rubus laciniatus, bore fast ripening fruits, and had obviously been quite recently in flower. — Ed.] THE GOLDEN THYME. T'HE Golden Thyme referred to by Mr. Clarence Elliott on page 25 was not found wild on the Welsh hills. In October, 1905 or 1906, I saw a golden spray coming out of the crown of an Encrusted Saxifrage which Mr. Wolley Dod had given me shortly before his death. The wild Thyme referred to by Mr. Clarence Elliott was found on the top of Snowdon in 1891. It flowers from two to three weeks earlier than any other variety. — E. Charles Buxton, Bettws-y-Cocd. IRIS RETICULATA UNDER GLASS. T SHOULD fancy that most readers of The Garden know Iris reticulata as one of the most welcome — as it is certainly one of the most beautiful — of early-flowering bulbs. I have been successful in establishing it both in the rock garden and in short grass. Properly- arranged it is exceedingly charming in the turf of the wild garden, which sometimes borders, happily enough, the rockery. The enclosed picture shews this plant put to a new use. If good enough for reproduction it would, I think, interest many readers. Like most Irises, it resents forcing, but even if grown in an entirely cold house the blossoms appear under glass early in the New Year. — G. Harvey. [The photograph men- tioned, of a pan of Iris reticulata. wTas hardly suit- able for reproduction. The picture accompanying the note is of a bowl of these beautiful flowers exhibited at the mid-January meet- A BOWL ing by Messrs. Sutton and Sons. The plant is neat enough to associate with the choicest of alpines under glass. — Ed.] THE VALERIAN AND SELF-SOWN SEEDLINGS. T WAS very pleased to see your note on the above plant (The Garden, December 23, 1922, page 652). My business engagements have taken me away from home very often during the past two seasons, consequently one part of my garden — the rock border that claims my personal attention — has been neglected and allowed to run wild. To-day this rock border is a riot of self-sown seedlings and young plants of trees, such as Sycamore, Thorn and innumerable common weeds. There the beautiful Valerian — one of my favourite plants, either wild or cultivated — has become a weed and a pest, with a special liking to establish its numerous offspring among my beds of Mossy Saxifrages and Sedums, while groups of alpine Dianthus and Aubrietia are their special abiding places. Among the Flag Irises they have also lound a home. This Valerian will certainly soon fill a garden if left to seed. The reminder in the note referred to — " the easiness of its cultivation makes it a most desirable town garden plant, so long as it is not permitted to seed " — should therefore be borne in mind. I grow this plant upon a raised border, where I find a difficulty in establishing most plants, the. soil being little more than sand, with very sharp drainage. The Valerian is just the plant for such dry and hungry soil. The natural habitat of the Valerian is among limestone formations. In the sowing ol seed great care should be exercised in the selection of varieties. When I commenced to grow the Valerian, seed was purchased from a first class- firm making a speciality of an improved coloured form. My disappointment was great when viewing this plant growing wild by the tens of thousands,, one colour form of the wilding throwing my special plants quite into the background. In North Wales there are three distinct colours — a very vivid and distinctive ruby red, crimson and pink. The latter colours should be avoided for garden OF THE DAINTY IRIS RETICULATA. decoration. There is also a very beautiful white variety growing in the Llandudno district. — Graniticus. TRAPPING VERMIN. A/IOST of the methods advised by your con- tributors of notes on above to The Garden recently are, so far as tried by myself, as disastrous to birds as the vermin they are set to destroy. Usually the first victim in the " break-back " is the friendly robin which follows one's doings in the garden very attentively. The hedge sparrow that early in the year gives forth its not unpleasing melody is also a not unusual victim and, of course, the beautiful and entertaining tits, which probably do considerably more good than harm in the majority of our gardens ; I do not think there is any question that they mainly subsist on insects, larvre and pupa\ which they are constantly ranging the trees and shrubs for. The " brick " trap advised and illustrated would probably be as disastrous to bird life as the " break-back." Our gardens would lose one of its great attractions if it were not a sanctuary for bird life, and in most gardens the damage they do is compensated for by the pleasure and com- panionship that is felt towards them, at any rate by some, and the beautiful music they generously provide, especially in the springtime of the year. Mice trouble me considerably at times, especiallv playing havoc with Crocus and other bulbs, and also nibbling back the Dianthus, alpine Phlox and other similar plants, which they at times 76 THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. carry away wholesale and store in their temporary domicile. In trapping I usually use the old- fashioned three-hole wood mouse trap which has wire spring nooses tied down with thread and which is baited with cheese, nuts, aniseed, etc., to reach which the mice have to nibble through the thread, which releases the spring. It does its work quite as effectively as the " break- back," and I have never had a bird of any kind trapped in it. I have had three mice trapped at one time and often two. Sometimes the bait is extracted without the thread being cut through, probably by the " pigmy shrew," a lovely, quaint little animal which can possibly push its way through between the threads. I have often had the bait taken off the " break-back " trap (set inside) without releasing the trigger. Some of the mice seem almost to suck the bait off. Recently I noticed some Tulip (species) seeds which were just coming through, were being tampered with by something, and set three traps in the frame, the whole of them on occasion having the bait taken without going off, but during the first week of this year I took two long-tailed field mice, two field voles and a pigmy shrew out. I have also tried the " Colin Pullinger " trap advised in The Garden some time ago, but, unfortunately, got one that was not properly balanced and, of course, did no good with it. It was altered for me, but the balance still does not seem to be right, and I have only had one mouse in it. The drawback to this trap is that the mice are caught alive and either die a lingering death or if alive when the trap is examined have to be drowned. — T. A. Lofthouse. CHRYSANTHEMUM TOKIO. AS an old "Mummer" I was much interested in the pars, by Mr. E. H. Woodall and my old and esteemed friend, Mr. Harman Payne, j,- the variety Tokio. I am pleased at times to read and to feel that Mr. Harman Payne's enthusiasm and unbounded interest in the Chry- santhemum has not waned with years. He has carried on correspondence and kept up L'Futentc Cordiale with our French neighbours for years, much to the advantage and benefit of many of us on this side of the Channel who have never been able to visit the French exhibitions and see their methods of staging. When I read Mr. Woodall's note, and subsequently Mr. Harman Payne's, describing the variety Tokio as a good pink, I felt that there was either a mistake or that there were two varieties in cultivation under the same name. I grew and used Tokio some thirty years or more ago in my exhibition groups, on account of its bright red colour and dwarf habit, for the front plants. Bright colours were not so plentiful then. Mons. Henri Jacotot was then one of the best and largest, as well as the brightest. Later on we had Cullingfordi, very effective for colour. Perhaps Mr. Payne may enlighten us on the subject.— C. Orchard, Bembridge, Isle "I Wight. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FORTHCOMING EVENTS. February 12.— United Horticultural Benefit and. Provident Society's Meeting. Lecture at the University College, Gower Street, London, W.C.i, at 5 p.m.^ by Mr. H. C. Thornton, B.A., on " Con- ditions Affecting Bat 1 rial Activities in the Soil — Activities Connected with the Intake of Protein Building Materials." February 13. — Royal Horticultural Society's Fortnightly Meeting and Annual General Meeting. February 14. — Lecture at the University College, London, W.C.i, at 5 p.m.. by Mr. D. W. Cutler, M.A., on " Protozoa of the Soil." FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. [ Herbs. — Perhaps the most popular herb is Mint. and to obtain this of the best quality a new bed should be made every year. It is increased by division and now is a good time to replant. Parsley- is raised from seeds and the first sowing can be made during this month and another in July. Sow the seeds thinly and thin out the plants to 6ins. Sage can also be raised from seeds, but preference should be given to cuttings taken in the autumn. The common Thyme may be increased by division at this season, or raised from seeds, which may be sown any time during the spring months. There are a number of other herbs in cultivation, most of which can be raised from seeds. Broad Beans. — If the soil is in a fit condition the main crop of this useful vegetable should be sown in double lines 2ft. apart and gins, apart in the rows. Beans enjoy a strong soil, but good crops can be obtained from any ordinary garden. The Longpod varieties are usually grown by the amateur, but the Windsor kinds should certainly be given a trial. Parsnips. — Whenever possible Parsnips are sown about this time, but no anxiety need be felt if such is deferred for a few weeks. The seeds should be sown thinly in lines 151ns. apart, lightly cover the seeds and then draw a wooden rake over the bed, but this must be done in the same direction as the rows. Parsnips should be given a deeply dug piece of ground and a patch that was manured for the previous crop. Use the hoe directly the seedlings appear and thin out ift. apart. Hollow Crown and Student are both reliable varieties. The Flower Garden. The Frame Ground should always be kept neat and tidy and the plants in cold frames must be looked over for weeds and decayed foliage, while the soil may be stirred lightly with a pointed stick. Viola cuttings should have their tops pinched out and cuttings of various shrubs, if well rooted, can be transferred to nursery beds. Rock garden plants such as Saxifrages, Thymes and Androsaces, if propagated last August, will be ready for their permanent quarters, but it will be necessary to well harden them by removing the lights both night and day. Salvia patens. — Among blue-flowered bedding plants S. patens occupies a high position and the old plants ought now to be introduced to a warm greenhouse to start them into growth. Large examples can be divided into several pieces and potted up, while sufficient cuttings should be inserted for bedding purposes. This delightful Sage can also be raised from seeds. Dahlias. — Since the advent of the Paeony- flowered and Single varieties, Dahlias have been ex- tensively employed for bedding purposes and few plants are more effective for large isolated beds. The old stools should now be placed in a httle heat where thev will soon produce a quantity of cuttings. These will readily form roots if sandy soil is used, and the pots of cuttings are arranged in a close propagating frame. Cooler treatment should be the rule directly roots are formed and each cutting must be given a separate existence by potting it off in a mixture of loam and leaf-mould. Fruits Under Glass. Peaches and Nectarines. — In most instances far more fruits set than are required for a crop, so it will be necessary to begin thinning them at an early stage. This* must be done gradually and the same remark applies to disbudding of the shoots. When disbudding a thought must be given to the future welfare of the tree, remembering that the growths retained now will form the fruiting wood next year. All foreright shoots should be removed, and care must be taken to see that the base of the tree and the main branches are well supplied with new growths. The shoots that were tied in this season will produce a number of growth- and when disbudding the basal one must be preserved, also the terminal shoot and three others equal distances apart. A fortnight or so later two more growths may be removed. Disbudding can commence when the' shoots are about half an inch in length. A watch should be kept for aphis for they do irre- parable damage in a short time. The house may be lightly vaporised, or the trees syringed with a weak solution of any reliable insecticide. Cucumbers. — Proceed to transfer the plants to their fruiting stations before the roots become starved. A low house is essential and the vines should be tied to wires placed about iSins. from the roof glass. A peck of fibrous loam should be set in position for each plant, but this must be thoroughly warmed before planting. Growth will be fairly rapid in a moist temperature of 65° to 70°, and each lateral must be stopped just beyond a fruit. When the roots appear through the soil add more loam and rotten manure and keep the plants well supplied with moisture. Warm water should be used both for syringing and watering purposes. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Autumn-fruiting Raspberries. — Where these are appreciated the Hailsham should be given a trial. All the canes should be cut down to their base and when new ones appear they must be moderately thinned. T. W. Briscoe, (Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq.) Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Peas. — Weather permitting, an early sowing of Peas may be made. It will still be advisable, however, to select the warmest site available, ami the drill should be partly filled up with some fine, rather dry soil. Precautions should also be taken against damage by mice or rats. Broad Beans. — A sowing should now be made for early supplies, and the quick-maturing Early Mazagan is suitable for this sowing. Two feet between the drills is sufficient for this variety. Rhubarb. — This is a suitable time for making new plantations. The plant being a gross feeder, it requires liberal cultivation. Trench or. double dig the quarter, working in a good supply of organic manure with each spit. When the soil has settled a little, plant single or double crowns about 4ft. apart each way. An alternative system is to excavate pits from 30ms. to 36ms. in diameter and 3oins. deep, and incorporate a good supply of manure with the soil as the pits are being filled in ; distance apart as above. Fruit Under Glass. Peaches which have set their fruit should be vigorously syringed to rid the trees of the decaying flowers. "The trees should now be syringed every afternoon and the pathways sprinkled with water twice daily. The trees must not be allowed to get dry at the root. Ventilate on all favourable occasions and maintain a night temperature of 500 or thereabouts. Strawberries. — Plants in flower should be fertilised bv means of a camel's hair brush or a rabbit's tail. A rather dry, buoyant atmosphere is desirable at this stage. Plants which are swelling their fruits should receive the assistance of some approved fertiliser, such as Clay's or Icthemic guano, rather weak and frequent doses being preferable to strong doses given at long intervals. The Flower Garden. Antirrhinums. — For planting in masses the Antirrhinum is hard to beat. Seeds should be sown now to furnish plants fit for planting in the first week in Mav. Sow in boxes as for the general run of half-hardy annuals. Of the three classes, tall, medium and Tom Thumb, the medium varieties are the most useful. Dahlias. — Cuttings should be taken as soon as thev can be had from 2ins. to 3ins. long. Insert these in an ordinary propagating bed, where they will soon root. When sufficient cuttings have been obtained the old tubers can be transferred to a cool structure with a view to their being planted out in the herbaceous border or elsewhere. Spring Bedding Plants.— Take advantage ot dry, open weather to stir the soil with a small hoe between Wallflowers, Forget-me-nots and Daisies. If mice are tampering with Tulips, they should be trapped or poisoned. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Strawberries.— Where plantlets have been laid in in nursery lines for spring planting prepara- tions should be made for planting them out. The quarter, if trenched or dug in autumn, should now only require to be forked over when weather permits." Run the Dutch hoe through between Strawberries planted in the autumn. The Pleasure Grounds. Lawns. — Any turfing which has to be done should be dealt" with as soon as possible. Happily this work can be taken in hand when the weather forbids many other jobs being dealt with February io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. Vll. CHOICE IRIS from CHISLEHURST If you are contemplating either adding to your Iris garden or forming a collection of Iris, you cannot be without the following varieties. Order them now for Spring planting : Alcazar (Vilmorin). — S. bright deep aniline blue, F. rich deep velvety violet purple, with a prominent yellow beard. Very tall. Ambassadeur (Vilmorin). — Flowers large, with smoky reddish violet standards, and falls dark velvety reddish violet. Beard yellow. Height 4ft. A.M., R.H.S. Ambigu (Vilmorin). — S. clear smoky red, and falls a velvety reddish brown. Height 2ift. Asia (Yeld). — A.M., R.H.S. Pale lavender standards suffused yellow at the base, falls light purple violet, paler at the edges, heavily reticulated at the haft. Bright yellow beard. Height 4~4^ft. Crepuscule (Vilmorin). — A fine violet blue self, with very large flowers. Very free flowering. Dejazet (Vilmorin). — Of distinct and beautiful colouring. Dusky rose orange, and F. clear reddish violet. Robust grower, of medium height. Eldorado (Vilmorin). — S. yellowish bronze, shaded beautifully with heliotrope, falls bright petunia violet, tinged with bronze yellow at the haft, and a prominent yellow beard. Ed. Michel (Vilmorin). — A.M., R.H.S. Of imposing appearance of a distinct reddish petunia violet colour, with falls slightly deeper than the standards. Halo (Yeld). — An exceedingly fine Iris, with large and good quality flowers. S. light violet, F. bluish violet. Lord of June (Yeld). — A very strong grower with massive flowers. S. palest lavender blue, F. deep rich aniline blue. A.M., R.H.S; Height 2i~3ft. Lohengrin (G. & K.). — S. pure light aniline blue, F. bright pale violet. Very beautiful. A.M., R.H.S. Height 3Jh3ft. Mrs. Neubronner (Ware). — Uniform shade of rich golden yellow, one of the finest yellows. Height 2ft. Oriflamme (Vilmorin). — S. brilliant pure blue, F. deeper blue puiple. Height z£ft. Opera (Vilmorin). — Magnificent variety. S. rich pansy violet, shaded to brownish violet at base ; F. a rich velvety violet purple. Height 2jft. Prospero (Yeld). — A.M., R.H.S. S. pale lavender, F. rich deep violet purple, slightly paler at margins. One of the best. Pallida Celeste. — Pale silvery blue standards, and lavender falls. Very beautiful. Richard II (Dykes). — Standards, pure white, falls deep violet con- spicuously margined white. Most prolific. Height i|— 2ft. Queen of May. — A pallida form, rosy pink. All above are sterling value, and should be included in all collections. Carriage Paid for £3 lOs. from GEORGE G. WH1TELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST Please write for my Alpine and Herbaceous Lists. ALLWOODII. With the Charm and Fragrance of an Old World Garden. THE HARDY PLANT. Grows anywhere and blooms from Spring to Winter. Carr. & Packing Paid Collections. Coll. 91 /a, 6 distinct vars. 5/6 „ 91/b,9 „ „ 7/6 „ 91/c, 12 „ vars., inc. 1921 Novs. 12/6 „ 9l/d,25plants,std. vars., our sel. 21 /'- „ 9 l/e, 100 ditto 75/- „ 9 1/f, 6 Novelties of 1922 and 1923 21/- CuUural Booklet 6(1. post free. BORDER CARNATIONS. We have magnificent stocks of all the best Garden Varieties. To lovers of this fragrant flower we offer specially selected stock for present planting at lowest possible prices consistent with our quality. Carriage and Packing Paid Collections. Collection No. 8 1/a, 6 distinct varieties „ 8 1/b, 12 „ » „ 8 1/c, 50 plants in variety „ 8 1/d, 100 „ in 12 standard varieties 8 - 15/- 55/- 100 - Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation fully Illustrated & Described in our Catalogue. Sent with pleasure. When yon think of Carnations yon think of ,^_ The leading Carnation ^^ * jm * y^Z Raisers & Specialists T^*^Z Hay wards Heath, — '■■■" "" Sussex. BRIGHTEN YOUR ROCK GARDENS! Lovely Red, Rose, etc., Mossy Saxifrages. Mrs. LLOYD EDWARDS can supply good selections of her NAMED HYBRIDS during February. 6 for 7/6 ; Newer, 10/6 ; 12 for 14/- and £1. Aubrietia Lloyd Edwards, deep violet, large plants, 2'6 each. Post free, if cash with order. TREVOR HALL, near RUABON. Three Hardy Herbaceous Novelties of Sterling Merit GEUM LADY STRATHEDEN. — A clear Golden Yellow Mrs. Bradshaw. Vigorous habit, large double flowers and extremely free flowering. 2 feet. A.M., R.H.S. 1/6 each ; 16/- per doz. HELENIUM CRIMSON BEAUTY.— Bronze Crimson. A mass of bloom from July till September. 2 feet. 2/6 each ; 27/6 per doz. SIDALCEA SUSSEX BEAUTY.— Clear Satiny Pink, very free flowering, 4 feet high- 2/6 each ; 27/6 per doz. 3 each of above Novelties 18/- GENTIANA FARRERI.— The most gor- geous of all Gentians. The colour a wonderful Cambridge Blue. Grown in any moist garden soil, either in sun or shade. A.M. and F.C.C., R.H.S. 3/6 and 5/- each. Send for Descriptive Catalogue, post free. W. WELLS, Jun. Hardy Plant Nurseries, MERSTHAM, SURREY 'Phone : Merstham 139. WWIWWMaWWWXWWWWWMWIW IWWWIWIWiMIWW—il I ■ Will »«' I VEGETABLE SEED COLLECTIONS FROM 5/- UPWARDS SWEET PEA COLLECTIONS 5 O W ^V FROM ^l6 ^ UPWARDS SEEDS OF WINNERS OF 50 GUINEA CHALLENGE CUP SUCCESS AT LE ICESTER SHOW, 1922. GARDEN SEED CATALOGUE Post Free on Application. JOHN K. KING & SONS, Ltd., SEED GROWERS TO H.M. THE KING, COGGESHALL, ESSEX. ESTABLISHED 1793. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. THE GARDEN. [February io, 1923. All coarse patches ol pra should be removed and be replaced by suitable turf. Any depressions should have the turf thrown back and the depre iion li veiled up with soil that is not too rii h. Walks requiring a fresh supply of gravel should have attention now. Old walks can be freshened up by loosening the surface to a depth of a few inches and sifting the earthy portion into a barrow to be wheeled away, only the clean gravel bi ill ■ retained. Charles Comfort (Formerly Head-gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian. All the spraying nostrums only aggravate the evil, as a certain amount of moisture is essential for the growth and spread of the rust. Perpetual-flowering Carnations may still be propagated according to requirements, while earlier rooted batches should be potted off. Keep a strict outlook for aphis on plants nearing the flowering stage. Occi light fumigations should be given as a preventive. J. Coutts. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Salvia azurea var. grandiflora (syn. S. Pitcheri) is a beautiful blue-flowered plant which is hardy in the south, but flowers very late, often getting damaged bv late frosts. It is, however, an excellent plant for the cool conservatory. It is easily raised from seed sown at this time, or from cuttings, which may now readily be rooted in a case in a cool house. In fart this plant may be given exactly the same treatment as Chrysanthe- mums. Good specimens can be grown in loin, or I2in. pots, and during the summer they should be stood out on an ash bed. These plant's require strict attention as regards watering and feeding for, if neglected in this respect, they are apt to lose their bottom leaves and also suffer from attacks of red spider. Salvia Uliginosa is another late-flowering blue species, also worth growing in the same way. It is a strong rooting species and requires very generous treatment. Here at Kew it is not over hardy and requires some dry leaves or ashes over the crown to keep it safe. Salvia Greggii is a very pretty red-flowered species, useful for the greenhouse and conservatory during late summer and autumn. It is a shrubby plant and makes neat specimens in 6in. pots. It is easily propagated at this time by means of cuttings, which root readily in a case in a cool house. During the summer it should be stood outdoors in cold frames or on a bed of ashes in the open. Fuchsias raised from cuttings last September and kept growing steadily on during the winter should now be potted on, giving them a rich com- post, as it is essential that they make free and rapid growth. If given generous treatment they should make good specimens during the coming summer. Old specimen Fuchsias should now be got out and pruned, at the same time cleaning them ; this is very necessary if they were attacked with mealy bug last season, and they are very subject to attack by this pest. If well watered and stood in a warm greenhouse, where they can be syringed several times a day, these plants will soon start into growth, when they may be turned out of their" pots and a portion of the old soil removed. They should then be repotted into the same sized pot's. They should be kept close and spraved over with the syringe several times a day until they are growing strongly, when they may be given more air, regulating this according to the outdoor conditions. Where it is desired to increase the stock, plants should be started into growth in a warm house. The young shoots when 3ins. in length root very readily in a close case. Where they can be planted out Fuchsias are ideal plants for training on rafters and pillars in the conservatory and in such positions they grow freely and flower with wonderful profusion right through the summer and autumn. Many of them are also excellent for filling baskets ; for this purpose varieties with a natural drooping habit should be selected. Mrs. Rundle and Mrs. Roberts are good examples of this type. Cloth of Gold is a slender, drooping variety with golden foliage. Malmaison Carnations wintered in 4m. pots should now be ready for a shift into 6in. pots, ["he compost should consist of a good medium loam and unless it is on the heavy side is better without the addition of leaf soil. Lime in some form is necessary for all Carnations and where it can be procured old mortar rubble may take the place of sand in the compost. A 6in. potfulof fine bono ne al and a dusting of soot should be added to everj bushel of soil. If fresh lime is used in the compost do not add soot. Firm potting is essential and the plants should be kept close for a few days until they get a hold of the fresh compost. Specimen plants should now be growing away and will require more water at the root. There will now be less danger of rust. The only preventive and cure for this is dryness during the dull mouths ; not a drop of water on the foliage and no more at the root than will keep them from shrivelling. The Amenities of the National Estate at Box Hill We have received from the Editor of " Country Life " the following : — ABOUT a year ago attention was called, in the Press, to the fact that Box Hill was in danger, a very large adjoining k portion being for sale and described as ^ " ripe for development." The Nation's property there, after Miss Warburg's gift last year, consists of Box Hill and half a mile of the main ridge to the eastwards, together with the northerly spur, the valley up which the road runs, and the next spur to the east, which forms one side of the most beautiful part of the whole place, " Happy Valley." Thus the Nation's estate of 300 acres is of an " I. " shape, very narrow on the main ridge. It is the area, 248 acres in all, immediately north of this narrow strip, which is now offered for sale by Lord Francis Hope. It consists of open woods, a bracken-clothed plateau with gorgeous views over " Little Switzerland," and the line of the downs westwards, and — most important — forms the eastern side of " Happy Valley." Its acquisition would convert the Nation's property into a compact rectangle. Lord Francis Hope has intimated that, in the event of the land being sold to the Nation, he would put forward to his Trustees a price of £5,000 for the land, plus £2,000 for the timber or, alternatively, £5,000 net, provided he is allowed to cut timber not exceeding £2,000 in value before sale. This latter, of course, is most undesirable. The offer is a generous one for it works out, with the timber, at £28 per acre, as compared with £50 per acre paid by the late Leopold Salomons for the original gift of Box Hill proper. The articles and correspondence which appeared last year in the Press provoked an offer as generous from a reader of Country Life living in Rio de Janeiro, who wrote as follows : " I have carefully studied the matter and think it is a good opportunity for anyone wishing to do something pro bono publico, and therefore am very glad to send you the enclosed draft of £1,000 towards the purchase of the land (with the conditions I will mention later). " In buying land for the public one has to be careful that private interests do not reap as much or more, benefit than the public, but the present estate, lying alongside a piece already public property, gives the public not only its own actual area, but adds a value to what the public already owns. This is a great point." (We would add that it does more ; it prevents the deterioration of what the public now holds, through the sale of the land for what proves to be the most vulgar form of development.) " Now I am not a wealthy man ; 1 work very hard for every thousand pounds I earn, but 1 do not pay English Taxation, and I want to help decent things to be done in England. " So 1 send you the thousand pounds with the following obligations and conditions " («) That the purchase be completed before September 30th, 1923. " (b) That in addition to this £1,000 herewith, I will subscribe the last £1,000 required. This should encourage other subscribers. '" in That if the money be not subscribed by the date mentioned above, you return to me the thousand pounds and I am absob ed from further responsibility. " I think it very good of you to be working up this purchase. I do not want my name to figure, you can use my initials. Yours very truly, H. H. C •' The Box Hill Committee have voted £1,000, but we must appeal to England for the balance — £4,000, to those who, like our friend in South America, wish to see decent things done in England. Country Life will give an initial £250 on condition that three donations of a like sum are forthcoming. The danger is a very real one. Where land has already been developed, as along the road to Box Hill from Walton, it is horribly disfigured by ruined woods, and bungalows of the meanest sort. The oaks on the land under consideration have already been marked for felling and unless the money can be secured, the beauty of the Box Hill woods will be greatly diminished. We hope that you will permit us to make use of your columns in order to appeal to your readers for subscriptions, which will be very gratefully received if addressed to : " The Box Hill Fund," 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. [Signed) P. Anderson Graham. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS QUESTION AND ANSWERS. — All communications should be clearly and concisely written on one side of the paper only, and addressed to the EDITOR of THE GAKDEX, 20, Tacisiock Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.2. When more than one query is sent, each should be on a separate piece of paper. Plants for naming should be clearly numbered and securely packed in tfamp grass or moss, not cotton-wool, and flowering shoots, where possible, shoidd be sejd. It is useless to send small scraps that arc not characteristic oj the plaid. THE ROSE GARDEN'. YELLOW ROSES FOR A CIRCULAR BED (S. C.).— The varieties named by our correspondent (viz.. Golden Ophelia, Benedict* Sequin. Lady Hillingdon and Emily Gray), are quite suitable for tlie purpose, but we prefer Golden Emblem to Benedicte Sequin as then oweis are a truer yellow. There is a terra-cotta shading in the blooms of Benedicte Sequin. Golden Ophelia is vigorous and. with good treatment, makes a fine bedding Bose. Emily Gray would form a suitable weeping standard and the whole combination a very charming bed. TREES AND SHRUBS. AUCUBAS ATT\CKED (W. T. 1!.. I. of W.).— The Aucubas are attacked by a scale insect called Aspidiotus hedera. This species is extremely uncommon outdoors, though it sometimes occurs in greenhouses. The best treatment will be spraying with nicotine-soap wash made by mixing 3oz. nicotine, 41b. soft soap, 4U gallons water, or with paraffin emulsion at summer strength. BEECH AND HORNBEAM (Constant Reader. I. of W.). — Tire trunk of the Beech is smooth, whereas that of the Hornbeam is commouly rugged or fluted. The habit of the former is open and branching, and of tie- latter closer and more elegant. Beech leaves arc obscurely toothed or haw unevenly undulated margins, whereas those of tie Hornbeam have a much toothed edging. Again, the Beech has six or seven pairs of leaf veins, whereas tie Hornbeam has ten to thirteen pairs, much more closelj arranged. The Beech fruit consists of triangular nuts enclosed in a husk ; that of the Hornbeam is a ribbed mil at the base of the bract. Beech wood is easily worked, whereas Hornbeam is hard and almost bony in character. HONEYSUCKLES (C. G. A.). — The nomenclature of the climbing Honeysuckles is very much confused. According to the Kew Hand-List of Irees and Shrubs Lonicera brachyppda and ].. flexuosa are synonyms for the same plant, which is a variety of L. japouica. The flowers should be pale red outside, inside white, changing to yellow with age. It is a vigorous grower and should make a beautiful screen on a wire fence at Torquay. lie plant with creamy-white flowers changing to yellow with age is L. japonica var. Halliana. L, Heckrotii in habit is more a ioose shrub than of a climbing nature, the flowers are rich pink outside, yellow within, and very freely produced on healthy plants. February io, 1923. THE GARDEN. IX. fETirllSROOK, FREE THE- PUBLISHER^ /HAWLMARK BELFAST. LEAF BLISTER On Peaches, Nectarines, &c. M is a sure preventive and should be used NOW, before the buds burst. 1 quart, 2/6; J-gall., 3/6; 1 gall., 6/-; 2 gall., 10,G: 5 gall., 25/-. Carriage extra. Dilution : 1 part to 16 soft water. GEO. BUNYARD & Co., Ltd., Royal Nurseries, MAIDSTONE. Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN. Catalogue Free on application. C. ENGELMANN, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. GLADIOLI. EXCELLENT QUALITY AND MODERATE PRICES. De3criptive List of Gladioli, Liliums. Begonias, etc, post free an application. 100 Gladioli, in 10 distinct named varieties, .. 8/6 SO „ „ 10 „ „ „ „ 4/9 100 Gladioli, in the Bnest mixture, . . . . 6/6 50 „ .... 3/9 ALL Carriage Paid. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. WILLIAM HELPS, Bulb Merchant, 11, Beechfield Rd.. London, N.4 VELVET LAWNS The use of Climax Lawn Sand or "Premier" L Lawn Dressing now will be a revelation to you. Nothing else so reliable* PARTICULARS AND ADVICE FREE. I Garden Supplies u? 2L CRANMER STREET. LIVERPOOL COOPER'S WINTER(vi)FLUID Kills Moil, Lichen and other harmful growth* Doei not burn I Call vprktJ 10.6) m,k.. tOO ■■)!■. of Sptmy Mtatui WILLMM COOPER i NEPHEWS, lid., THE BOY'S OWN AQUARIUM and THE BOY'S OWN BOOK OF PETS, two booklets by Frank Finn, B.A., F.Z.S. ; full of practical hints and useful information for parents and boys. Published at 9d. each, by post lid., at the Offices of- "Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C2. WRITE FOR WEBBS' GARDEN CATALOGUE for 1923. (Seeds, Potatoes, Manures) POST FREE ON REQUEST §5 The Most Popular Bedding Plants WEBBS' ANTIRRHINUMS New and Beautiful Strains WHITE HEATHER— Pure white, grows about i ft. high. 6d. & 1/- pel pkt. ROSE QUEEN — Rose pink, with golden orange lip, I ft. 6d. & 1- per pkt. SCEPTRE— Deep crim- son shade, nearly black, i ft. 6d. & 1/- per pkt. GUINEA GOL D— Bright yellow flowers, 9 to 12 in. high. 6d. & 1/- per pkt. SUPREME — Nearly every shade, mixed, i^ft. 6d. & 1/- per pkt. SCARLET QUEEN— Bright cinnabar red 3 ft. 6d. & 1/- perpkl CHALLENGE— Brilliant colours, mixed 2 ft. 6d. per pkt WEBBS- COLLECTIONS OF VEGETABLE SEEDS Best Quality and Value, 5 9 8/3 11/. 13/6 21/- Post Free. (See Catalogue) For a successive supply of DELICIOUS MARROWFAT GARDEN PEAS GROW WEBBS' LITTLE MARVEL — First Early. 2/3 per pint WEBBS' SURPRISE— First Early. 2 3 per pint WEBBS' STOUR. MARROW. — Second Early. 2/6 per pint WEBBS' SENATOR— Main Crop. 2/- per pint WEBBS' DISTINC- TION—Late Crop. 2/6 per pint WEBBS' "MAGIC COMPOUND MANURE An excellent fertiliser for all Vegetables, Flowers, Plants and Fruits. Bag of 7 lbs., 3/3; 14 lbs., 6/-; 281bs., 11/-; 56 lbs., 20/- WEBB & SONS, LTD. (The King's Seedsmen), STOURBRIDGE CELEBRATED MANURES a, Unrivalled for all Garden Crops. The result of over 50 years' practical experience in gardening — still first for quality and results. Safe. Sure & Lasting. A$Ky:ur SEEDSMAN for "THOMSON'S. " Vine, Plant and Vegetable Manure— A per- fect Food— 1-cwt. 30/-, 56-lbs. 17/-, 28-lbs. 9/6. l-l-lbs.S/6 7- lbs. 3/-. t.ns 1/3 and 9d. THE DOG : MAN'S FIRMEST FRIEND.— How to choose and care for him, by A. Croxton Smith. A copy of this helpful booklet on the housing, breeding, feeding and. care of doss will be sent post free on receipt of lid., addressed to The Manager, " Country" Life,** Limited, 20. Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. Forbes' Catalogue Carnations. Pelargoniums. Penlstemons. Phloxes. Pyrethrums. Violas. Hardy Border and Rock Plants. Seeds, etc. FREE ON APPLICATION. JOHN FORBES (Hawick) Limited, The King's Nurserymen, Hawick, Scotland. LETTERS TO YOUNG SPORTSMEN ON HUNTING, ANGLING AND SHOOTING, BY Lt.-Col. J. MACKIL0P, HORACE G. HUTCHINSON and the Hon. DOUGLAS CAIRNS. PROFUSELY ILLUSTRATED BY LIONEL EDWARDS Crown 8vo. 6/- net. by post 6/6. The Letters appeared originally in the columns of Country Life, and are reprinted in book form in response to the requests of a very large number of appreciative readers. A prospectus of this book will be sent post free on application to the Manager, " COUNTRY LIFE." LTD., 20. Tavistock Street. W.C.2. TOMATO CULTIVATION : UNDER GLASS AND OUTDOORS. By R. GlEFARD WooLIEY. A practical booklet by the Editor of The Garden, 9 12 & 13' KINQ STREET, ""r%r* ** WN^I^^I COVENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.O.2. CROCUSES IN GRASSLAND. "IP FRI IITIPR " THE WORLDS BEST MANURE. J-Jj-' l UUU 1L.1V First at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:— 1 cwt., 30/-; J-cwt., 16/6; 28 lbs., 9/-; 14 lbs., 5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Oelivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6 'Phone Hornsey 2868. THE GARDEN. [February 17, 192; it THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE NOTICE TO OUR READERS /~\N receipt of a Post Card the under- ^*^ mentioned firms will be pleased to send their useful Catalogues free of charge. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD. MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twbrton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Book of Seeds now ready R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. BlE]E]gggE]B]gggggggE]E]E]E] §j KING'S ACRE ROSES H El noted for over a Century for 13 [El hardiness and reliability. 13 El Useful alphabetically 13 arranged Catalogue of more 13 than usual interest, contain- |3 El ing helpful information, with 13 Special Collections for all 13 El purposes. Free on request. 13 El Narserles Established 1785. El KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 HEREFORD. |G] EllalalslslslalslsIalalsIslsIalalslslS * Tubs for shrubs. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak. Beech, Teak. etc. Highly decorative. — Price List from Pradal & Co., 26, Goodge Street. London, W.l. Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humbes HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Landscape Gardening W. H GAZE & SONS, Ltd. Garden Architects and Craftsmen, KINGSTON ■ ON -THAMES and at 10, Conduit Street, W.i. Model Gardens and Nurseries "THE QAZEWAY," Surbiton, S.W. Sole Makers of the " All Weather " Hard Tennis Court. Crazy and rectangular Paving Stone loaded on rail ; Sundials, Garden Figures, etc., in lead and stone. Write to W. Gaze, 19-23. High St„ Kingston-on-Thames, for Illustrated Catalogue 4D, or an appoint- ment to inspect the Model Gardens and Garden Furnishings at " The Gazeway." Kingston 3000 (6 lines) May fair 3973-4" J. CHEAL & SONS, Ltd. Nurseries CRAWLEY Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, i4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i & 58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths, Green & Hard Courts GEORGE G WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT WRITE ME Landscape and Garden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re-arranged- Plant- ing plans for borders, etc. Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. I PULMAM © SON EBt' APPOINTMENT TO rllS MAJE5TY , 71 NEWMAN ST-CTCTORDST j LONDON -V I NUB5EPJE5-EL5CNnAM Plarvs £> 5uruey5- Vases -rtxjrvtaiTxs - fi^orc5-5ar»dial5-»c SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving full cultural directions at competitive prices, Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D.T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. SPECIAL OFFER. Choice Plants for present planning : — 12 Aubrietias in 12 varieties - - O - 12 Dianthus in 12 varieties - - 9- 12 Saxifrages in 12 varieties - 9- 12 Alpines for dry walls in 12 vars. - 9/, to 15/- 12 Plants for paved walks in 12 vars. 7/6 to 10/6 12 Michaelmas Daisies in 12 new vars. - 18 - 12 Veronicas, shrubby, in 12 varieties - 1 2 - All the above .ollections seat per return carriage paid. PULHAM & SON, Alpine Nurseries. BISHOPS STORTFORD. Winners of the Graphic Cup for best Rock Garden, Chelsea Show, 1922. r FOG WILLS "Best-Result" Seeds WILL GROW GET THIS FREE. IT TELLS ABOUT THE "SEEDS THAT ARE DIFFERENT." Post free with particulars of Free Seeds from FOGWILLS SEED HOUSE Dept. E), GUILDFORD. Established 10 years. SPECIAL OFFER. SWEET PEAS. Coll. 1 — 15 Best Exhibition vars. 12 seeds Coll. - — 6 Choice ., ,, 12 seeds GLADIOLI. Coll. 1 — 5 each 5 new varieties 4<- 1,3 ., X— 5 .. 5 „ 6—5 .. 20 TOMATO. (Elsom's Fillbasket) pekts 1/ 4 6 4/3 • 4/- 126 & 2 6 PEAS. Elsom's Sphinx, the wonder Pea. height 2ft., enormous cropper, delicious flavour, early. 2 3 pint, post free. SEND FOR NEW LIST POST FEEE. GEORGE ELSOM (Dept. F ) Seed & Bulb Grower, SPALDING (Continued from opposite page.) JAPANESE BOWL GARDENS.— Miniature Figures. Pagodas, Huts and Bridges, complete sample set. 7 <',. New list post free. — Ferrest & Ward. 9-10, St. Mary-at-HUl, E.C.3. Trade supplied. TO LOVERS Inexpensive plants Place, Bath. OF ROCK GARDENS.— for sale.— Apply, Xell Shaw, Hatfield WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus ! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small trees, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 19 0 per mile (full 1,760 yards). Send for trial lot or sainplesto-day. — GEEEN'S Surplus Stokes, 205, Seymour Koad, Lytham. WANTED. — "Garden/' Vol. 1912, either bound or complete copies. State price.— Box \Y.. '• Garden" Office, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, Loudon. CAMPANULA ORPHANIDES, Cistus algar- vensis, Dianthus Russell Pritchard, Edraianthus pumilio, -. 1 cio Grayi, Gentiana lagodechiana, I.iuum collinurn. Onosma alborosea, Potentilla Vilmoriana, Primula rufa. Saxifragu stribnryi. Irvingii. Pentstcmon Bridgesii, Geranium Webbianum. Any six post free lor 7 •. — Taylor, Clears, Reigate. RARE ALPINES.— Oxalis adenophylla, Iris histrioides major, Parochetus, Pelargonium endlicherianum, Primula helodoxa, Sisyrinchium grandirlorum, Soldauellas and rave Saxifrages are 'all included iu our Alpine Catalogue, I -i tree. Herbaceous Catalogue and List of Hardy Orchids also free. — Boweli. & Skarkatt, Nurseries, Cheltenham. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for cropping and Exhibition ' purposes. Thirty of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 1923. Post Free Copy on application. If interested, also ask for our Nurserv List of Hardy Scotch Plants, Roses, Fruit Trees, etc. Thyne & Son, Dept. G, Dundee. February 17, 1923.] E GARDEN. 53! -ygS^&PZr- WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DKONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs. Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials, Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— JOHN Waterer Sons and Ceisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks ; and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. xii. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road. South Tottenham, N.15. — Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, ichestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make 9plendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London.— Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., LIMITED, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. — Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli, THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli is now ready. Send for particulars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard.— Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., ,and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — Hodson and Son, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Weils & Co. Merstham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of ftrst-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection invited. Price list post free on application. — Thob. Rivers & Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Saw bridge worth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus.- Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 ; Express, 2/8; Epicure, 2/-: Ashleaf, 2/9; Great Scot, 1/10; Arran Comrade, 1/9 ; Kerr's Pink, 1/8 ; Majestic, 2/- ; Rhoderick Dhu, 2/8 ; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early, 2/- ; Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K. of K., 2/- ; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward, 1/10: Arran Chief, 1/9; T. W. & Co.. Plotholdcr, 2/9; Field Marshal, 2/6 ; Golden Wonder, 2/- ; Tinwald Perfection, 1/9 ; Ally, 2/- ; Witchhill, 2/9 ; Bloomfleld, 2/-, etc. Carriage Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks, Onions, Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce, Radish, Celery, Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt., 2d., 3d. and fid. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries for Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Ttllie, Whyte and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES. — List of varieties with prices on application. — Alexander Graham, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. GASSON'S GARDEN & TENNIS BOUNDARY NET. List now ready, with samples, post free. — Gasson & Sons, Net Works, Rye. Established over 100 years. MORRIS'S LIVE SEEDS (29th Season).— Reliable quality, reasonable prices. Full list of the worth- while varieties free. Shallots, 10lb., 6/3 ; Onion Sets, 41b., 5/- Carr. paid. Scotch Seed Potatoes, finest grading, inspected stocks from 10/- cwt. — Morris's, Seedhouse, 225, Bristol Street, Birmingham. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10/6 each. Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chichester. BARR'S FLOWER & VEGETABLE SEEDS, of finest selected strains and tested growth, also the best Scotch and Irish grown Seed Potatoes. Descriptive Catalogue free. BARR'S HARDY PERENNIALS, ALPINES, ROCK PLANTS, AQUATICS, CLIMBERS, etc., for Spring planting. Catalogue free. BARR'S LILIES, GLADIOLI, DAHLIAS, CANNAS, MONTBRETIAS, ANEMONES, BEGONIAS, TUBEROSES, Ac, for Spring planting. Catalogue free — Barr & Sons. King Street, Covent Garden, London. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations can now be planted in any part of Great Britain. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorious scent. We have won more carnation awards of R.H.S. than any two firms together. Sow seed now, 2/6 and 5/- Plant list free. — J. Docqlas, Edenside, Great Bookharn. PAGE, 77 79 8o 8i 82 82 84 84 85 85 86 88 CONTENTS The Use and Arrangement of the Crocus Colour in the Winter Garden Water and Bog Gardening Winter Flowers at Reading The Alpine Poppies Why? A Story of a Search Some Wood Sorrels The Best of the Rampions . . The Flame Nasturtium Correspondence Plants for Switzerland ; The Early Season ; A Little-known Shrub ; Tkalictrum adiantifolium and its Hardi- ness ; Perpetual-flowering Carnations in Winter ; Chrysanthemum Tokio ; The Robinias. Cultivation of the Peach Early Salads for Small Gardens Gardening of the Week Anszvers to Correspondents ILLUSTRATIONS Calluna vulgaris, varieties of Choisya ternata Crocuses as Naturalised Menyanihes trifoliata Oxalis adenophylla . . Philesia buxifolia Phyteuma comosum . . Primula sinensis Giant Robinia hispida Tropicolum speciosum Wistaria and a Figure Wistaria multijuga . . JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91. 90 ies of • • 79 •• 83 r ■ 77 and 78 .. 80 .. 84 .. 86 .. 8s White Stai .. 81 .. 87 .. 85 . . 82 • • 83 ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free. Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 16, Morden Rd., Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a pe.-fect fertiliser ; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wirework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists. — Bohlton and Pact,, Limited, Norwich. SUTTON'S SEED POTATOES. Strong, healthy stocks. Scotch grown. SU TON'S ALNWICK CASTLE, Early (Non-immune), 141b., 4/6 ; 81b., 8/6 ; Jcwt., 15/-. SUTTON'S WHITE CITY, Maincrop (Immune), 141b., 4/9 ; 281b., 9/- ; }cwt., 16/-. Both very heavy croppers. Exceptional table quality. SUTTON & SONS. THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, READING NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S LOVELY PJEONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupine*, Gaillardias, Phloxes, Pseonies, etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Roses now ready. — Write for descriptive Catalogues to Kelway and Son, The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. DOBBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogueland Guide to Gardening, free, if this paper is mentioned. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS.— New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies. — (Dept. E), R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free.— Moorton, 65, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PERRY'S SPECIAL OFFER OF JAPANESE LILIES, GLADIOLUS, MONTBRETIAS. Perry's Seed Cata- loguo now ready. — Hardy Plant Farm, Enfield. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior & Son, Ltd., Colchester. CHRYSANTHEMUM CUTTINGS. — Louisa Pnckett, Majestic, Mrs. Algernon Davis, Peace, Princess Mary, Queen Mary, all at 3/6 per doz., or two of each of the six varieties, 3/6; Blanche Poitevine, pure glistening white, splendid dwarf habit, 2/6 per doz. ; The Favourite, grand late white, 2/6 per doz. ; Percy A. Dove, fine late white, 2/6 per doz. ; Caprice du Printemps, splendid dwarf habit, 12 in 6 varieties, 2/6. Half dozens at same rates. Orders value 5/- post free ; under 5/-, 6d. for postage. Delivery per return post. Catalogues free. — J. W. Cole and Son, Chrysanthemum Nurseries, Peter- borough^^ LAXTON'S SEEDS AND FRUIT TREES.— Catalogues (mention which required), containing novelties and all the old favourites, can be had on application. — Laxton Brothers, Seed Merchants, Bedford. PRIVET & THORN.— Also Rhododendrons, Heathers and Alpines. Send for List. — HODSONS_^LnaTBD, 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. RARE ALPINE 1922 SEEDS, from one of the largest and choicest collections. 900 vars. Sold cheap. Lists free. — Rev. J. F. Anderson, Glenn Hall, Leicester. PAINTS.— Conservatory Paint, 17/6 Gallon; Estate Paints (white, green, purple oxide), 17 - Gallon. Cans free. — For quotations write to Macfarlane & Co., 14, Devon- shire Road, Forest Hill, London. NATURAL STONE PEDESTALS, Sundials in brass, lead, and slate. — Yeates, Bridge Works, Down Park Road, Hackney. ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection of the best Vegetable and choicest strains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices, is now ready and will be sent free on application. — J. R. Pearson & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. SHOW AND REGAL PELARGONIUMS.— Strong, clean, healthy plants from 3in. pots. 12 fine Darned varieties, 7/6. Newer ones, 10/- and 12/- per dozen. Novelties- of 1920, 15/- per dozen. All free by parcel post for cash with order, or carriage paid per passenger train in Leatherboard pote, 2/6 per dozen extra. Catalogues extra. — J. W. COLB <4 SON, Midland Road Nursery, Peterborough. SEEDS OR TINY SEEDLINGS TO REPLACE SEEDS.— NO WORRY I NO DISAPPOINTMENTS ! .Millions ready for distribution at correct dates. Begonia, Celosia, Cineraria, Primula obconica, etc. Auricula, Aquilegia, Carnation, Cowslip, Polyanthus, Pansy, etc. Choicest Sweet Peas in Seeds and Plants. Stocks, Asters and other Bedding Annuals. Catalogue on application sent free if this paper is mentioned. — Storrie &. Storrie, Flower Seed Specialists Glencarse, Perthshire. GREENHOUSE PAINTING AND GLAZING. — " Vitrolite," superior to White Lead Paint, 18/6 per gallon ; cans extra. " Plastine," the Imperishable Putty, 32/- per cwt. ; kegs extra ; 71b. tins, 4/3, post free 141b. tins, 5/6 each, carriage extra, tins free. — Full particulars from W. Carson and Sons, Grove Works, Battersea. THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. WHY IS IT SO POPULAR? Read Free Booklet of Wonderful Results. DIPLOMA AND MEDAL AT THE ROYAL INTER- NATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION, 1912. , celebrated O HOP MANURE (PATENTED. ) V The Most Perfect J^ ' Fertilizer ^" V Beware of imitations. Genuine Only in Our Marked Bags, Containing Guaranteed Analysis. SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMI- CALLY PREPARED in the form of a leaf- mould, read> for use at any time, in the same way, and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes further (4 bushels equalizing 15 cwts.), gives better results, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. Cash PriCCS (including bags) : Small (about 1 bushel), 3/- ; Large (about 10 Large, 65/-; 20 Large, 120/-. Carriage paid to any station within 25 miles of London, including delivery within free 6d. per bag extra for every 50 miles or part beyond. A beautiful Free Booklet giving full particulars and testimonials sent on JjXMN^ ONLY /=£" RELIABLE © SUBSTITUTE EVERY DRESSING OF WAKELEY'S HOP MANURE enriches the soil with the Humus it contains, doing lasting good, quite unlike the ordinary chemical manures, which act only as stimulants, and which, by constant use, impoverish it. 4 bushels), 7/- ; 5 Large, 33/9 ; delivery radius of Railway Company. receipt of postcard. WAKELEY BROS. & CO., Ltd., 75a, Bankside, London,S.E.1 DICKSONS HawlnarK 1 • BELFAST • * The Sweet- Pea Specialists. LTHE GARDEN COLLECTION CT / 12 Varieties. , «-»/" IN OUR SEED CATALOGUE we give full particulars regarding Shows at which we are offering prizes; copy will be sent free on application. Seedsmen and Growers, KELSO, Scotland MEIN'S EXHIBITORS Collection of Vegetable Seeds, 7/6, post free. Sufficient in this collection to enable you to enter for our Special Prizes at various Shows, 1923. THOMAS GREEN & SON, Ltd., Smt infield Ironworks, Leeds, and New Surrey Works, South wark Street. London, S.E.I. February 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES Our stocks are grown and selected specially for Seed purposes, and under normal con- ditions of soil and situation, cannot fail to produce first-class crops. All are Class I. Scotch, Immune varieties certified by Board of Agriculture. Bags free. Keenest prices. Write for Catalogue. -New Catriona, Di Vernon, Eatie NEW VARIETIES. Glover. FIRST EARLIES America, Arran Rose, Eclipse, Edzell Blue. Epicure. Immune Ashleaf, Midlothian Early, Sharpe's Express, Victory, Witch Hill Early. SECOND EARLIES. — Arran Comrade, British Queen, Great Scot, K. of K., King George, Nithsdale. MAINCROP. — Abundance, Arran Chief, Arran Victory, Bishop, Crusader. Golden Wonder. Kerr's Pink, King Edward. Langworthy, Lochar, Majestic, Roderick Dhu, Tinwald Perfection, Up-to-Date, White Citv. AUSTIN'S GOLD MEDAL GARDEN SEEDS. Descriptive Catalogue of all varieties of out- standing merit free on request. Write for copy. Orders have prompt attention. AUSTIN & McASLAN, 89-95, Mitchell Street, Glasgow. Established 1717. Fruiting Barberries. Aggregate Aristata Wilsons; Coryii Polyantha Brevipaniculata Rubrostilla Stapfiana Prattii Virescens Verescens fructo Subcaulialata Vulgaris coccinea Yunnanense Tree and Shrub List free on application. T. SMITH, Daisy Hill Nursery, NEWRY. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. BRIGHTEN YOUR ROCK GARDENS! Lovely Red, Rose, etc., Mossy Saxifrages. Mrs. LLOYD EDWARDS can supply good selections of her NAMED HYBRIDS during February. 6 for 7/6; Newer, 10/6; 12 for 14/- and £1. Aubrietia Lloyd Edwards, deep violet, large plants, 2/6 each. Post free, if cash with order. TREVOR HALL., near RUABON. ALLWOODII With the Charm & Fragrance of an Old- world Garden. THE HARDY PLANT Grows anywhere and blooms from Spring to Winter. Carriage & Packing Paid COLLECTIONS. Collection 9 L/a, 6 distinct varieties .. .. 5/6 9 L/b, 9 „ .. .... 7/6 9 L/c, 12 „ including lf.21 novelties 12 6 9 L/d, 25 pints., stnd.vars., ourselection 21/- 9 Lie, 100 „ „ „ 75/- 9 L/f, 6 novelties of 1922 & 1923 „ 21/- Cultural Booklet Qd. post free. BORDERGARNATIONS We have magnificent stocks of all the Best Garden Varieties. To lovers of this fragrant flower we offer specially selected stock for present planting at lowest possible prices consistent with our quality. Carriage & Packing Paid COLLECTIONS Collection 8 L/a, 6 distinct varieties .. .. 8/- 8 L/b, 12 „ „ .. 15/- „ 8 L/c, 50 plants in variety .. .. 55 - „ 8 L/d, 100 „ in 12 standard varieties 100/- Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation. Fully illustrated and described in our Catalogue. SENT WITH PLEASURE. When you think of Carnations yon think of The leading Carnation Raisers & Specialists in the world. Haywards Heath, Sussex. PLANTING SEASON. GEO. JACKMAN & SON Woking Nurseries, SURREY (Established over a Century) Invite Inspection of their Large and Varied Stock of ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS, ROSES, CLIMBERS, FRUIT & FOREST TREES, HERBACEOUS & ALPINE PLANTS. 200 Acres of Stock to select from. Catalogues Free on application. Advice given on all matters appertaining to LANDSCAPE GARDENING and Estate Improvements. Selected DUTCH BULBS, ROSES & PERENNIAL PLANTS FOR SPRING PLANTING. Descriptive Catalogue free on application. Delivery carriage paid. No Charge for Packing. JOHN B. VAN DER SCHOOT THE OLD-ESTABLISHED BULB FARMS (Own Bulb Farms over 400 Acres) HILLEGOM, HOLLAND Telegrams : NARCISSUS, HILLEGOM Three Hardy Herbaceous Novelties of Sterling Merit GEUM LADY STRATHEDEN. — A clear Golden Yellow Mrs. Bradshaw. Vigorous habit, large double flowers and extremely free flowering. z feet. A.M., R.H.S. 1/6 each ; 16/- per doz. HELENIUM CRIMSON BEAUTY.— Bronze Crimson. A mass of bloom from July till September. 2 feet. 2/6 each ; 27/6 per doz. SIDALCEA SUSSEX BEAUTY.— Clear Satiny Pink, very free flowering, 4 feet high. 2/6 each ; 27/6 per doz. I 3 each of above Novelties 18/- GENTIANA FARRERI.— The most gor- geous of all Gentians. The colour a wonderful Cambridge Blue. Grown in any moist garden soil, either in sun or shade. A.M. and F.C.C., R.H.S. 3/6 and 5/- each. Send for Descriptive Catalogue, post free. W. WELLS, dun. Hardy Plant Nurseries, MERSTHAM, SURREY 'Phone : Merstham 139. iSrWWll"*'irril'""l~~ 1 vniiTi^r m*iii -~iri. 6 „ „ 1/6. Blood Red .. 6d. &1/- Purple 6d. & 1/ Canary . . 6d. & 1 - Scarlet 6d. & 1 Deep Rose . . 6d &1/- Violet 6d. & 1/ Pale Rose . . 6d. &1,- White Sd. & 1 Finest Mixed 6d. & 1/-. POST FREE. DICKSON, BROWN & TAIT, 57, Cross Street, MANCHESTER. HI lOWPQ* Chrysanthemum . J. JUllCo Catalogue contains select list of all the new and best up-to-date varieties in all sections, also list of gold medal Phlox, new Michaelmas Daisies, choice Delphiniums, new Hydrangeas, giant Mont- bretias, Giant Cannas, choice Gladioli, etc., sent post free for 2d. stamp. List of CHRYSANTHEMUM NOVELTIES post free H. J. JONES' Chrysanthemum Guide. Best work on Culture. New Edition in preparation (135th thousand), ready shortly. Paper covers, post free 1'2, Cloth covers 2i6. Gold medal Phlox, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; gold medal Michaelmas Daisies, 7/6 and 10,- per doz. ; new giant Mont bretias, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; anest named Delphiniums, 12/- and 18/- per doz. ; gold medal decorative Dahlias, pot roots, 7/6 and 10/- per doz. ; Hydrangeas, grand new varieties, 60/- per doz. All box. packing and carriage free /or cask with order. RYECR0FT NURSERIES, Lewisham, S.E.13. VI. THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. iit(tcH4 ppointment. Awarded 17 GOLD MEDALS during the past three years. A COMPLETE LIST of the finest and most distinct varieties will be found in SUTTON'S GARDEN SEED CATALOGUE for 1923. We call special attention to our list of SWEET PEA , IQ^l NOVELTIES Ior ly^O (On Page 160). SUTTON'S COLOUR SCHEMES. One of the most delightful methods of growing Sweet Peas is to arrange a number of varieties in harmonicus blendings or contrasts. Excepting the two Frilled Mix- tures, the Colour Schemes we offer are composed of our Giant Scented varieties : — 3941. Pink, Yellow and Salmon shades. 3943. White and Pale Blue shades. 3945. Pale Blue and Cream shades. 3947. Salmon-pink and Pale Blue shades. 3949. Rose-pink and Pale Blue shades. 3951. Cream and Maroon shades. 3953. Salmon-pink and Crimson shades. 3955. Imperial Red, White and Blue. Each, per Packet, 216 and 1 6. 3957 3959 Frilled White, Pink and Red shades. Frilled White, Mauve and Purple shades. Each, per Packet, 216 and 1:6. SUTTON & SONS £££' READING CARTERS "VEG-VITA" GENERAL FERTILISER. SEEDSMEN TO H.M. THE KING. FERTILISERS — GARDEN AND LAWN The whole of our compounded fertilisers are based on formula? which are the outcome of years of practical experience, each of which is .now so accurately blended as to contain the correct proportion of organic and inorganic constituents necessary for the crop for which the particular manure is compounded. CARTERS COMPLETE GRASS FERTILISER (No. 1) is, as its name implies, a complete grass food ; that is to say, it contains all that is necessary for the growth of fine grasses, but it does not force or burn them. Sample Bag 1/3, 71b. 2/-, 141b. 3/9, 281b. 7/-, 561b. 13/-, 1121b. 25/- tm$ FERTILISER. CARTERS COMPLETE GARDEN FERTILISER (No. 6) (Veg-Vita). The formulae are based on the average requirements of plant life, as a whole, and so accurately blended as to give splendid results to those who work for a mixed display, and do not specialise in any particular branch. Sample Bag 71b. 141b. 281b. 561b. 1121b. Price .. 1/3 2/6 4/9 9/- 16/6 30'- CARTERS SWEET PEA FERTILISER (No. 7) This highly concentrated fertiliser, if used in conjunction with deep cultivation, will grow Sweet Peas to show pitch. Sample Bag 71b. 141b. 281b. 561b. 1121b. Price 1/3 2/9 5/- 9/6 17/6 32/6 ALL, CARTERS FERTILISERS CAR1ERS GRASS FERTILISER. CARTERS SPECIAL POTATO FERTILISER (No. 12) Ensures an increased crop with improved quality. Sib. 6 6 Price 7lb. 1 9 141b. 3/6 561b. 12/- 1121b. 22 6 CARTERS TOMATO FERTILISER (No. 8) A well balanced fertiliser for producing healthy growth and well finished fruit of a good flavour. Price ARE SENT Sample Bag 7lb. 1 /3 2/6 141b. 4 9 2Slb. 9- 5 61b. 16/6 1 I2lb. 30/- CARRIAGE FREE. For further particulars and price of Carters Chrysanthemum, Rose and other Fertilisers see Illustrated Catalogue "Garden and Lawn," post free. JAMES GARTER & CO., raynes park, london, s.w.20. ^IXH^ No. 2674.— Vol. LXXXVIL] [February 17, 1923. THE USE AND ARRANGEMENT OF THE CROCUS THE Crocus is just as suitable for natural- ising as the Narcissus, It has, indeed, the great advantage of flowering at a season when flower is particularly welcome. Save some few harbingers of spring in rock garden and shrubbery and the always welcome but rather cold-looking Snow- drops, it provides our earliest flowers. Purple and yellow and white, there is more colour variety in the Crocus than in the Daffodil, and if there is less variation in form, there is variety enough. The immense selection of splendid Daffodil forms is rather a drawback than an advantage when we come to naturalise them, since we are tempted to use too many sorts and so to destroy the very desirable breadth of effect. If we study natural groupings of bulbous plants or, indeed, of plants of any kind, we may find the species investigated growing in huge sheets or masses — Bluebells, Anemones or Campions in our own woodland, for example — or, at the other extreme, very sparsely ; some plants of the easiest culture in gardens are never found growing profusely in nature. We may find a species with hillside or woodland practically to itself when in flower or in the closest association with another species or higgledy- piggledy with several other species. We may, accordingly, arrange our plants in a variety of different ways with- out outraging natural effect, but it is quite unusual to find more than two species of the race growing near together, and if we try to arrange two or three dozen different varieties of the same race (and flowering together) in one stretch of grassland, we are certain to destroy the natural effect which we had been at some pains to create. The Crocus is an accommodating plant which grows equally well in garden soil or orchard turf, and can hardly be used ineffectively. It is largely used in serried ranks to edge beds of spring flowers, and is very effective for the purpose, yet it is when seen in irregular, seemingly natural masses in not too rank herbage that it shews to best advantage. Thus it may be seen growing by the million at Warley Place. The great plantings at Kew are perhaps more familiar to many readers, though, in the nature of things, hardly so effective. Fortunately, Crocuses and Daffodils may readily be grown upon the same ground, for. whereas the Daffodil prefers moderately deep planting, the Crocus likes a shallow root-run and, indeed, by its method of increase tends each year to get nearer to the surface, so that in ordinary garden soil the corms, if not lifted and replanted, ulti- mately appear above the ground. Under grass this is not, of course, feasible ; the turf mat which allows passage of the tapered growth effectively holds down the lifting corms. Those readers who have a stretch of grassland already planted with Narcissi may easily have a show of Crocuses next year as well, if they under- take the planting as soon as the corms are procur- able in autumn. The turf may then be stripped fairly thinly, the soil beneath lightly pricked up and the Crocuses planted in irregular drifts. If CROCUSES AMONG CRASS AND FERNS AT WARLEY PLACE. planting be left too late, the pushing Daffodil " grass " will, of course, be severed by the turf- plough. The yellow and purple Crocuses are most effective. They should be planted in separate drifts, but so used that the eye sees the two glorious colourings in combination. The white varieties, though less effective, may also be used either alone or among the purple ones. Thinking and planning are really easier than planting. Do not spare the planning, therefore ! See as much effective Crocus planting as possible now, while the sheets of blossom are in evidence, then study the lie of the land at home and arrange the groups to best advantage. Note the banks and let their swelling shoulders bear in February a garb of purple and gold ! Let the hollows also receive their trickles of colour. If the edges of banks above old pits are harsh and unlovely in contour, it is not as a rule a very big task to round off the unsatisfactory corners and with the surplus subsoil — the top soil should be laid aside and returned — to soften the curves at the foot of the bank. Bold sweeps — not stiff escarpments — suit both Crocus and Daffodil, but, while eschewing pettifogging variety, do not attempt to put an even lip all round a hollow. The appearance of artificiality must, at all costs, be avoided. The Crocus is often planted on lawns. Such a course would not, however, com- mend itself to a turf expert ! for either the Crocuses or the lawn must in the nature of things suffer ill-treat- ment. If mowing is suspended to allow the Crocus foliage to die off, the turf gets rough and progressively de- teriorates. If mowing recommences before the Crocus " grass " is withered, the Crocuses are quickly exterminated. Never- theless, the Crocus may be used in the mown sward of the wilder parts of the garden where Daffodils with their lingering foliage would be inadmissible. 78 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. Some readers of The Garden are very restricted for room. Not all of us have stretches of gi wild in which to naturalise bulbs. Must we. therefore, plant all our Crocuses by the line ? Not a bit of it ! There are few gardens nowadays in which there is not one corner where things are allowed (or caused) to look as natural as possible. The Crocus, thanks to its foliage, is almost as effective out of grass as in. Among Ferns or other plants which do not bulk in springtime it may be beautifully arranged, for the Crocus, though effective when planted by the million, is equally so when grouped in a small garden in colonies of a hundred or so. Groups may be used to enliven at this season the front reaches of the herbaceous border, which, if established, should now afford some background of pushing ition. Even in the paved garden, Crocuses are really more effective in irregular drifts than in the usual straight lines. For naturalising in turf there is nothing to equal some of the many named varieties of Dutch Crocuses, but some of the Crocus species are very beautiful and worthy of more extensive planting. Readers will remember that two of these, CC. Tommasmianus and speciosus, received last year the award of garden merit from the Royal Horti- cultural Society. C. Tommasinianus is an early- flowering and graceful species with pale sapphire purple blossoms, and C. speciosus, lilac and blue, is an autumn-flowering species and so somewhat out of the range of these notes. The genus, however, extends to nearly seventy species, so that there is a great opportunity for those who like flowers in their gardens which are not to be found in those of their neighbours. Crocus vemus is, practically speaking, the purple Crocus of gardens. It is, even in nature, an exceedingly variable species with flowers ranging from deep purple to pure white. Crocus Susianus is listed usually as Cloth of Gold and as such is well known and deservedly favoured in gardens. Not only its glorious colouring but its eariines? commends it to our attention, for Cloth of Gold always expands its blossoms before the purple and white varieties of C. vernus kin. C. biflorus is sometimes called the'Scotch Crocus — it comes from Southern Europe and Asia Minor — or, more intelligently, as Cloth of Silver. The flower segments are white or, sometimes, pale lavender and the outer segments are distinctly feathered with purple. This species is seen to best advantage on slopes of the rock garden or in pans where the feathering can be appreciated, rather than in broad stretches where it does little but smudge the total effect. There are a number of geo- graphical varieties, all beautiful and interesting. C. Imperati is an early-flowering species of robust habit and very suitable as a companion for C. Susianus, as it flowers at least a fortnight before the common C. vernus. In the typical form the ground colour is lilac-purple, heavily feathered rich deep purple, but there are pure white and clear rose forms. Crocus Sieberi is a species from the Greek Archipelago, usually clear bright lilac with orange at the base. There are, however, a variety of forms in many shades and combinations of colour !rom white to deep purple, all with the same orange throat. C. chrysanthus is another early spring-flowering species, typically with small orange-yellow flowers, but there are pure white and sulphur yellow forms, the latter suffused with blue towards the base. C. aureus is a parent of most the yellow Dutch Crocuses. The wild plant is a glorious orange, either self-coloured or striped with grey lines. Other interesting spring- flowering species are C. altavicus, white freckled purple, verv early ; C. banaticus, deep rich purple; and C. ver> shades of purple or white. 1**^ t*W "^jf- ■ ^ '^ -- jp^jJr-- $i* j*"~ i|£s|apg*. — St ■ .^59E?vJ*c $fl£ i s spy HMMuLfcv / :*«nS*r** *#&■ ■-'"''-ir^ - ?WS * * ** H • W A,- .• " ' : - A WEALTH OF BLOSSOM. CROCUSES BY THE PATH SIDES. CLOTHING THE SWELL OF A BANK. February 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 79 COLOUR IN THE WINTER GARDEN THE cheerful way in which the early- flowering Heaths put up with the worst ef weather at this season places them in the very front rank of winter-flowering plants. The white form of the alpine forest Heath (Erica carnea alba) is invariably the first^to open with us, and one's only regret is that it is such a feeble affair. Perhaps, however, I should have added " comparatively," for in all fairness it must be admitted that it has a rival in the type species which is gorgeous enough to make anything less splendid appear rather more second-rate than it may actually be. But one can forgive the white carnea much for those few flowers with which it opens the New Year and ushers in that long succession which others of its genus will maintain for the following ten months at least. Of E. carnea (syn. E. herbacea) one can only say that it is admirable in all its many forms. The type is itself first-rate, a hardy, easy doer in light loam or peat, and one that can be relied upon to flower profusely every year. It is a low-growing carpet Heath, mailing a compact growth about 9ms. deep ; the foliage is a soft, often yellowish, green ; and the flowers which crowd the terminal shoots are, when fully ex- panded, a rich rosy red. Of the named varieties of E. carnea — a numerous family — some of them well deserve the praise bestowed upon them by nursery- men and patrons, while others appear to lack sufficient distinction. We all have our own tastes in such matters, but my choice in the carnea hybrids leans towards the deeper tints, one called prsecox rubra, in a vivid carmine, being particularly striking and early. E. carnea this year opened its first flowers here on January 10, a week or two earlier than E. darleyensis (E. medi- terranea hybrida), which is another of the indispen sables where winter Heaths are the object. This latter has all the precocity of E. carnea combined with the greater stature and more branch- ing habit of E. mediterranea, it being a hybrid between these two. It does not, perhaps, always bloom quite so heavily as either of its parents ; but it is a good thing, quite distinct, and its clear porcelain pink flowers are very charming. Of E. mediterranea which, with the afore- mentioned, is said to prosper on a calcareous soil, one cannot speak too highly. It is seen in many forms which, when well grown, are all good. The type species may be described as a sturdy, upright, bushy-habited shrub of some 3ft. to 5ft. in height with dark green foliage and long terminal spikes closely packed at the leaf axils with flowers in a clear rosy red. In favourable districts the blooms begin to open at the end of February should the season be mild, and they will continue to increase until spring is well advanced. E. mediterranea is hardier than E. lusitanica, -which usually blooms a little later. Indeed, it appeals to be able to withstand severe frost and biting winds without injury. Though the typical plant is so admirable for grouping, there is a form of it known as E. m. superba which is larger in all its parts, even more floriferous and more richly •coloured. This makes an excellent specimen for the lawn or foreground of the shrubbery. E. m. var. alba is, unlike the white carnea, a really fine white Heather, a prolific bearer of an abundance of long, densely flowered spikes of pure white. It is difficult to understand why such an excellent variety as this is comparatively so uncommon in gardens. There is a pretty dwarf variety (nana) of this species which is very suitable for the rock garden or edging and another (glauca) with a bluish-tinted foliage. In its own way E. stricta is always very effective at this season, whether used as a low hedge or grouped. I refer not only to the very distinct foliage of this Corsican Heath, but to the dead flowers which glow with a warm, foxy red against the pleasing moss green of the stiff and fuzzy branchlets which bear them. The faded bells resist all manner of inclement weather, keeping their fine healthy green untarnished and carrying their brilliant berries right on to spring. A group, mainly consisting of what are generally known as the Davis Hybrid Pernettyas, can always be relied upon to provide a crop of these fruits whose colours range from pure white through pink to rich blood crimson. Though very striking and large, birds seldom touch these berries, but I rather suspect that mice take their share some- times. Apart from their beauty in winter, their red-stemmed spring growth and hoary little white flowers, the Pernettyas possess one further great advantage, and that is they never call for attention and with us never get any, and yet they are always fresh and neat. MANY FORMS OF LING ARE BEAUTIFUL WINTER AND SUMMER. of most of the summer-autumn blooming Ericas have their own peculiar winter colouring, soft tones of grey and russet brown, but none of them can equal E. stricta in this respect. Then in the E. vulgaris (Calluna) set we have three varieties notable more for the colour of their foliage than their flowering, viz., argentea, aurea and cuprea. These might be described as good, better and best in the order given. The last named, i.e., E. v. cuprea, has, indeed, the most strikingly coloured winter foliage of all the Ericas, the lower parts turning a subdued gold which warms to a rich coppery hue at the tips. The form argentea is not as silvery as its name suggests, nor is aurea so golden, but, never- theless, these are distinctly effective if happily placed in good groups. The best silver-leaved Heath known to me is a variety of E. Tetralix called, I believe, E. T. mollis, with white bells, and there is another fine variety of the same thing with very large blossoms in clear shell pink of which the leafage is distinctly glaucous in winter. One must say a good word for the Pernettyas at this season for the splendid way in which they Long before January is out the buds of Forsythia suspensa begin to swell and often in February the wand-like shoots will suddenly be wreathed with their yellow flowers. It may be contrary to orthodox practice, but I must say here that F. suspensa grown as a rambling bush overhanging a bank is a more pleasing object than the same thing severely pruned and thereby rendered stubby and void of grace. Moreover, it seems to me that a shrub like this, which is utterly destitute of leaves at flowering-time, and of which the blossom- colour is anything but striking, needs some back- ground to be appreciated to the fullest possible extent. Here F. suspensa, always better when viewed from below, is grown on an Ivy-clad slope in the open woodland with pleasing results, as also is F. viridissima, though the latter is better off, inasmuch as it retains most of its leaves. With a similar background, including an old stump for it to trail over if it will, we have got the Winter Jasmine (J. nudiflorum), which, having some protection afforded by the branches of Oaks, is less liable to suffer from frost at flowering 80 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. time. Yet it must be admitted that the best we can do for this fragrant favourite is not so agreeable to it as the neglect which it enjoys in the little gardens of cottage neighbours. It has been found that the screen just men- tioned is often sufficient also to save the beautiful rosy pink flowers of Rhododendron pra?cox from destruction. These have been out some weeks, and they make a sweep of lovely colour on a westerly bank. R. Xobleanum gets a little of the same kind of protection, and the intense crimson of its wonderful trusses is in strong contrast to the chaste silvery pink of R. Silberrhad, which this year has started unusually early. It some- times might seem as if the rich and vivid colouring of these and other Rhododendrons would strike a rather too exotic and incongruous a note in our winter gardens. Much depends, however, upon the way in which such plants are handled, and, after all, they are not alone, as I have tried to shew. The Heaths in themselves are sufficient in their colour display to dispose of any such suggestion and to invite further efforts towards harmonious companionship. North Wales. [It is a little surprising to see E. carnea and its white form written of as earlier flowering than E. darleyensis, which generally opens its first blossoms in November. Nor should we call the latter's blos- soms porcelain pink. A very pale lilac rose would perhaps more accurately describe them. — Ed.] WATER AND BOG GARDENING II. — Planting. JT is when the water garden is completed, filled with water and found to be watertight, that the question of planting comes up for consideration and it is here that the real joy of possession begins. Until then it has been a work of planning and carrying out, of earth- quakes and planks and barrows, cement or bricks or puddling ; necessary e\ils, but evils none the less. With a clean sheet of water before one. with gently undulating margin, with stretches of bare earth and vision and imagination, what a world of possibilities lies before us ! First of all I would suggest to go and stand by the water's edge and view it from various aspects, in order to pick out the most favourable places for massing a few trees, shrubs, or, may be, if the area is restricted, tall growing plants that will have a '" reflection value." The point selected makes a considerable difference and one should make quite sure where is the point at which this is greatest. Masses of flowering Rhododendrons, giant perennials, placed where they will overhang the edge of the water, double their value when a brilliantly coloured reflection is flung back from the surface and so these should be our first consideration. It matters not what the area of the water may be, even the smallest rock pool demands this consideration and we should do well to give it our first attention. Coming to the water surface itself, in the majority of cases by far the larger number of plants chosen will be Water Lilies and, with these, the best method of planting is to use shallow baskets. These should be filled with rich turf loam and half-rotted leaves, the roots of the plants firmly embedded in this, the basket tied together and then sunk in a suitable depth of water, varying, according to the vigour of the variety, from ift. to 2ift. Another useful way, where a flat-bottomed concrete pond or brick tank is being planted, is to construct some openwork brick piers, cemented together when the pond is built, but leaving an ample open- work so that water can flow in, and roots and soil THE BOG BEAN, MENYANTHES TRIFOLIATA. make their way out. These pockets should be filled with soil as before and the roots planted in them, afterwards covering with water. When planting or replanting is being done, no time is better fitted for this than late April and early May, for the temperature of the water is then well on the upward grade and the plants grow away rapidly and strongly. By the way, a note should be made not to allow Nymphaeas to remain for more than three years without division and replanting, for, after this time, the rhizomes become too crowded to do well and the result is that one gets too many leaves close together, so that they push one another above the surface of the water, thus spoiling the appearance of the flowers by partly burying them. One's purchases should never be to the full capacity of the tank. One must have clear spaces of water between plant and plant, if one is to get the fullest effect and alas ! water surface is small and the Water Lily very, very beautiful. But it will not do ; the conglomerate mass is never pleasing, never satisfactory ; there must be clear areas of unbroken water. Other hardy aquatics, quite a number of which are native plants, by the way, may be planted much earlier in spring than the NymphiEas, just before new growth is commencing being the best time of all, and similar practice is followed save that, in the case of some, tubs may be used, which are filled with suitable soil and sunk where required, while — in the shallowest water and for the dwarfest growers — small mounds or bays, constructed with bricks and filled with loam, are used. One should not confine oneself solely to what I may term " flat " plants, by which I mean those that rest upon the water surface only ; add a few that rise upwards into the air, although rooting in the mud below the water. These are invaluable for diver- sifying height and, even in really small ponds, great value attaches to their restrained use, but one must avoid too many. They are, in many cases, bold, handsome and unusual, thereby adding a great deal of character, but one must avoid any appearance of competing with the flatter surface plants. In most cases they are best kept towards the edge of the water and colonised in small bays, perhaps intermingling one with another so as to give a more or less informal look, without studied grouping. To " dot " them in here and there among Nymphieas is quite wrong and entirelv spoils both. Keep your " flat " plants together and use your grasses and bushes to form strong " foregrounds," or, it may be, backgrounds ; it depends upon the point of view and the position irr which one may happen to be standing. Another excellent service that these upright growing aquatics render us is as a wind screen to dwarfer plants which love to be quiet and unruffled, for, by planting the latter upon the south or west side of the taller growers, the latter form quite as- efficient a shelter or screen as do a belt of shrubs or trees to a wind-swept garden. Use all your knowledge of the plants in grouping and arranging, so as to get the very utmost possible out of them and see that the whole is linked together, as far as possible ; there must not be a strongly defined line of demarcation between the water and the semi-aquatics or between these and the moisture lovers to which they lead. Each one should fall into its place, each one should lead to the other, so that a real and complete picture of exquisite softness and charm results. In concluding these remarks upon planting, I would warn those with a good sheet of natural water against the depredations of the water rat. He is an evil beast, capable of working a considerable amount of harm before his presence is detected or suspected, and a war of extermination should be waged against him. H. W. Canning- Wright. February 17, 1923. THE GARDEN. 81 WINTER FLOWERS AT READING ARF.CENT pilgrimage to Reading to see what Messrs. Sutton are doing this season with winter flowers was exceed- ingly profitable, since both Primulas ■ and Cyclamens, if a little past their best, were in excellent form, while some batches of Cinerarias were sufficiently advanced to shew new crimson which will one day — when it can be persuaded to seed more freely — be a gorgeous novelty. Even the coral pink varieties pale their (comparatively) ineffectual fires before the glorious Svmmetry which Messrs. Sutton class with the stellata forms, but which is in reality an improve- ment upon both Star and Show types. Of a IMPROVED GIANT WHITE STAR MIGHT BE DESCRIBED AS AN ALBINO SYMMETRY. their character. Most readers of The Garden will know that Messrs. Sutton's trial grounds are the place to see a wonderful collection of Chinese Primulas. As usual, the results of cross pollination as evidenced in the first, second and third genera- tions were of extraordinary interest, though in the vast majority of cases no striking advance is manifested in the produce of these crosses. One singular result may perhaps be worth mention. The fiery crimson Etna was crossed with Giant White. In the first generation (Fi) two forms were produced, one an old type of white-flowered Primula and the other a salmony-pink form, also of out-dated type. This production of two forms in is, Fi of course, irregular ; but, more singular still, instead of breaking up in the usual way in Fo these Fj forms reproduced themselves true and have since proved to be fixed. This is obviously a case of reversion to type, but it will not be easy to fit into the Mendelian Laws as at present under- stood. There is no need to run through the list of lovely varieties of Primulas in flower. There are some to suit all tastes and most of them are familiar to all lovers of greenhouse flowers. There is not one variety of all those offered in Messrs. Sutton's list which has not real claim to inclusion, which is not, in fact, well worth growing, though, naturally, individual tastes and preferences are catered for. All visitors to Reading this season will, however, agree that the main interest does not centre in the glorious dark Etna nor even in that splendid glowing cerise rose shade, with substantial five petalled flowers, well rounded but not over- lapping, carried on stout stems well above the beautiful foliage, this is certainly the Primula which an amateur should grow if only one variety is wanted. Giant White Star is a pure white counterpart to this, big and bold and handsome, yet had the Writer to choose two sorts for his own purpose (and were strictly limited to two) he would select Siver Star as the companion. This is a perfectly eyeless white variety with purple foliage. The flowers are not large, but the plant is imbued with grace and breeding and the unbroken silvery sheen of the blossoms when grown in mass must be seen to be believed. This, by the way, is a splendid variety for cut flower. Enchantress holds roughly the same position with regard to Silver Star that Symmetry holds to Giant White Star, which is to say, it is a rosy-crimson variety without the characteristic yellow eye. Except for a touch of white at the narrow throat it is self-coloured. This is also a valuable sort, though compared with Silver Star it looks ordinary enough. Before leaving the sinensis Primulas it may be well to mention that Messrs. Sutton have what is (or was) supposed to be the type plant as collected in China by Wilson. Messrs. Sutton have only a few plants of this really beautiful species. To appreciate it, one should look out for it in No. 4. house at Kew. It is not thought at Reading that this plant can be the progenitor of the greenhouse Primulas, for, despite repeated trials, it refuses to cross with the florists' forms. To point to its lack of similarity alike in flower and foliage would perhaps be presumptuous, but it may be permiss- ible to mention that the foliage of the species has a very pleasing Primula scent, quite unlike the rather rank smell of the cultivated varieties. Messrs. Sutton are not flowering their obconica Primulas until later in the season, but one could hardly fail to notice a batch of P. malacoides in its best forms — it still re-selecting — as little like the original plant which some of us have already half-forgotten as — well ! a great-dane is like a small fox-terrier. It will be surprising if, when this strain comes on the market, it does not cause something of a sensation. Among the Cyclamens one, naturally, looked out for Firefly, which recently received the R.H.S. award of merit. Though not a large-flowered variety, this is certainly a brilliant one and in a better light the faint blue tone noticeable on a very dark day at Vincent Square, could not be detected. Messrs. Sutton have at least three other brilliant red strains which they are working up and will one day be able to offer. To catalogue all the splendid varieties on view would be tiresome Suffice it to say that the Silver-leaved Salmon, with foliage as handsome as a Rex Begonia, was, as usual, in evidence, also the beautiful fringed forms and the large-flowered sweet-scented sorts. Messrs. Sutton point to a wonderful improvement in size with these last. To us it seems that they might claim at least an equal improvement in form ! The so-called double-flowered Cyclamens make no appeal to the writer, but it must be admitted that they are wonderfully fragrant. The Cinerarias will, a little later on, make a gorgeous display. Even now there is sufficient flower to assist a would-be purchaser in making a selection. Cinerarias do not breed true to colour, in the way that Primulas can be selected to do, for instance, but Messrs. Sutton have succeeded in so selecting their large-flowered forms that they come true to general colour. The white selection is pure white and constant also to type, the blue comprising several tones of deep velvety blue and purple, the light blues are mostly beautiful china- blue shades and the pink shades are all lovely, some of the china pinks being marvellously beautiful. Sutton's Scarlet represents the vivid colouring of the German Matador strain, which was very weedy in habit, on plants of the best form and with large and handsome flowers. The Star Cinerarias are still popular, but undoubtedly as they become better known the " Intermediates " will largely supersede them, especially the charming Forget-me-not Blue which comes wonderfully true to form and colour. The flowers are considerably smaller than those of the large-flowered type, but shapely and produced in extraordinary numbers. With the Cactus-flowered Star varieties most readers will by now be familiar, but the splendid Feltham Beauty strain is hardly so well known. The plants of the strain are more compact than the true " Stars " and the flowers, though of Star shape are larger. The hall-mark of the Feltham Beauty strain, however, is the white eye to tin- blossoms, which gives the whole inflorescence a very light and graceful appearance. FORTHCOMING EVENTS. February 19. — Lecture at the University College, Gower Street, London, W.C.i, at 5 p.m., by Mr. D. W. Cutler, M.A., on " Protozoa of the Soil " (continued). February 21. — Wimbledon Gardeners' Society's Meeting. Lecture at the University College, W.C.i, at 5 p.m., by Dr. B. Muriel Bristol, on " Soil Algte." February 22. — Royal Botanic Society's Meeting. 82 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. THE ALPINE POPPIES WHEN I was a boy I once cai a " pierrier " — not a moraine — in the chalk Alps of Savoy (Jalouvre) where I really thought I had found the terrestrial Paradise. Thlaspi rotundifolia. Saxifraga cassia, Valeriana tripteris and Ranunculus pamassi- folius were there in quantities, but they all " took a back seat " before the altogether delightful white form of Papaver alpinum (P. Burseri). Hundreds of silk-like and crystal-pure white corollas shivered under the glacial wind of the high Alp, and their delicious fragrance transported me. Myriads of bees were busy collecting the pollen in the rich sheaf of stamens forming the heart of the large white flower. The plants formed big patches bearing, some of them, nearly fifty flowers, and were wonderfully beautiful. I decided, then, to devote myself heart and soul to that plant only ; but it was only a child's ideal, and since that time I have seen so many treasures in the high Alps that I was obliged to enlarge my heart. Never mind ! The Alpine Poppy remains one of my " flames " ! It is, in the Swiss Alps, not at all a common plant. You may find it here and there. In our neighbourhood the white form is indigenous, and it is glabrous and glaucous, and grows in damp or rather moist, cool places (couloirs and iboulis calcaires). Its finely cut leaves are all slit and slit again into thin strips until the effect is very fine and fern or fennel-like, and the leaves are almost hairless and of a grey tone. Seen in its natural site the plant is a real beauty ; it is impossible to describe its grace and its charm. 1 think it might be compared to a minute and Lilliputian Romneya trichocalyx ; its scent, too, is delightful, but its charms are as fugitive as its beauty is exquisite. Take a bunch of the flowers and when you arrive home there is nothing left. It is best to cut them in the bud state ; then they open well, but do not, alas ! last long in water. The white form of Papaver alpinum, called Burseri by Crautz, is rare. You may find it in the Vergy ranges (Haute-Savoie), on the Dent d'Oche (idem), in the Prealps of Fribourg and of the Bernese Oberland. Then, again, you may find it on the north side of the Tyrol. It is quite a distinct plant, and when once found will never be forgotten. Quite different is the hairy plant called P. pyre- naicum, or aurantiacum, which grows in very sunny places, generally in iboulis or in moraines, and sometimes even in rock crevices. The plant is more or less hairy, the hairs being rather yellow or brown and sometimes very thick. The flowers are yellow or orange or even red. I have found it in the Pyrenees, on the Maritime Alps and on the Mont Ventoux, where it forms big patches, growing even on the wide motor road ! Of course, all these Poppies are south-western and alpine forms of the Iceland Poppy and originally they came from the north (see the most inter- esting book of Dr. H. Christ, " La Flore de la Suisse et ses origines "). They are very variable. I have grown them all in our alpine botanic garden at the Linnsea (see H. Correvon, " Cat. des plantes du Jardin bot. alpin de La Linnjea, Geneva," 1901, page 19), and made, from 18S9 to 1900, interesting experiments with them. But after I introduced some plants of P. croceum, brought from Central Asia by my friend, the traveller Bonvallot, it was impossible to keep them true. The bees work hard upon them and they cross with extraordinary facility, even when the various species are planted far apart. We planted the Asiatic plant on the other side of the hill bearing the garden at Bourg St. Pierre (4,900ft. alt.), and I thought that this would be sufficient to hinder cross-pollination. The bees, however, did their work as well as if the plants had been close together. The results were that we had a considerable number of distinct shades, tintings and forms and that we could do no more scientific work. The types are : P. Burseri, which I described first of all ; P. aurantiacum or pyrenaicum ; then P. Rhseticum, near to the last, bearing, however, much larger leaves ; Kerneri, with small, very short, smooth leaves divided into obovate divisions, sometimes red and short-stalked. It originated in the Dolomites and in the Julian Alps. I have planted it or sown it in many alpine stations and gardens in the Alps. It always grows there like a weed and encroaches a good deal, but it is at its best in gravelly, sandy soil. We have on the Jura a piece of ground as a sub- sidiary of Floraire for the raising of the seeds ; there, in a very sunny and dry place, we sowed a mixed packet of our alpine forms, the Pyrenean one excluded. We had such a beautiful result that many people went from Geneva up to St. Cergues to admire it. The flowers became much bigger, and they gave a kaleidoscopic effect with their different shadings and tones of colour. Some are pure white, others deep or light pink, red or crimson or sulphur or pure yellow. Some blossoms carry two colours, while some even came with double flowers. We had, too, a lot with very large flowers we called grandiflorum. For their culture in lowland gardens it must be observed that it is a necessity to give poor, rather stony and gritty soil with exposure to full sun. What gardeners call " moraine " should suit them well, but the wall garden is best of all for damp climates. Floraire, Geneva. Henry Correvon. WHY? EVERY garden-lover who visits many gardens develops a mental note of interrogation. Why was a certain line taken here, a particular planting intro- duced there ? The self-asked question is not always satisfactorily self answered. Some- times the reason is obvious after a moment's consideration ; at others, even though the result is quite successful, the intention of the designer or planter remains obscure. I have often wished that I could get at the person who first conceived A FIGURE PLACED WITH A PURPOSE a certain garden arrangement and find out exactly what influence was at work to decide a course of action of which I am seeing the effect. Sometimes when able to do so the result has been disappoint- ing, for the reason that the effect obtained was an accidental one produced by entirely haphazard methods. More haphazard work is done in the garden than anywhere else on earth. True as this is about design, it is more emphatically so with regard to planting. The mere possession of a few shrubs or plants, a possession that may be quite accidental, is sufficient reason for finding a place for them in the garden. What is worse still, one often finds distressed remnants of ornaments that have long since lost any claim to beauty they ever held, and are now merely old, dotted about, disfiguring an otherwise attractive garden. The only reason for them being used at all was that they happened to turn up and places were found for them. Apply this principle to any other department of domestic life and its absurdity becomes patent. Would the discovery of a keg of paint in an outhouse lead anyone to start redecorating his home ? Certainly not ; and if the paint was of a different colour to that already used, even though certain portions might need repainting, it would be considered little short of madness to use it. Nor would anyone finding a few old gulley trap gratings or drain pipes promptly start intro- ducing a new drainage system into his grounds. But let the same person discover in a barn that is being cleared out the headless trunk of an old stone figure, and it is promptly invested with romantic associations, a council of the family is held which debates seriously on the spot in which it shall be placed, and usually decides on one where it will most prominently disfigure the garden scene. Sometimes by chance the " find " is respectably good and the spot chosen suitable, when the result is happy ; more often it is the reverse. Two questions of this sort arose to my mind when visiting the February 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 83 gardens at Burrswood, Groombridge, last summer. The first was with regard to the figure placed in a somewhat unusual place on the terrace. An exquisite piece of modelling in itself, I could not help admiring it, but wondered why it was placed in ■ just that position. When I reached a point at some distance from the house and looked back I knew. Placed in the angle of the house it was easily the strongest and most appealing note within the view. One looked first at the figure, marvelling at the beauty of the poise and the suggestion of lofty aspiration it conveyed, and then as the eye followed its upward stretch it was caught by the luxuriant masses of a towering Wistaria that covered one side of the angle. Man's art became an incident that only served to reveal the beauty of Nature in one of her most beautiful aspects. Looking down once more the figure appeared to sink into insignificance, though losing none of its beauty ; but one could not help being struck by the charm of the combination. The second Why ? (in the same garden) was the wonderful mass of Choisya ternata planted here and thus. On putting the question to the present owners of the garden I found they were as much at a loss to understand it as I was, although we all agreed that being what and where it was it could be left. Backed by a hedge of noble proportions, evergreen, it fills the border for a considerable distance. In itself it is a simple and beautiful thing, but there is a sense of incongruity in its position in the garden that is not easily overcome, and one is compelled to wonder if its introduction was the result of accident or design. Was the gardener who planted it so fond of its glossy green foliage and fragrant white flowers that he indulged in a Choisya debauch and planted this long straight line of it with the resolve that whatever else might happen in the garden here at least he would find something to rejoice in. Or was it that he had a very successful striking of cuttings and just planted them in the border to get rid of them ? Whatever the reason, it cannot be denied that the result is successful from the point of view of cultivation, and this fragrant snowy bank is delightful enough, although a trifle monotonous. As an example of how well this " Mexican Orange " will grow and flower in favourable conditions it is remarkable. The plant is, of course, hardy in the South of England and succeeds in many places in the North. Yet a third Why ? arose to my mind a few days later in another garden. Why was Wistaria multijuga placed in such a position ? Anyone knowing the habit of this beautiful climber would realise that the wall behind is not of sufficient height to keep it as a climber, for which it is most suit- able. The individual racemes starting from the top of the wall would sweep the ground. For this reason it was allowed to grow as a bush. This is another instance where the exceeding beauty of the plant has redeemed it from the failure that the choice of position warranted. Grown as a climber, as in the fourth illustration, where its lilac lavender flowers can fall naturally from among its delightful ash green foliage, it is one of the most wonderful of all climbers, and certainly the best of all the Wistarias. It may seem a little thing, this choice of position for every detail that is admitted to the garden ; really it is the greatest factor of success or failure. The best and most successful garden is the one in which the composition of its details is as carefully considered as is the arrangement by an artist of all that goes to make a good picture. In fact, the good gardener is an artist, and the good artist, if it were possible for him or her to acquire the necessary technical and cultural knowledge, would make the finest gardener in the world. George Dillistone. A HEDGE OF CHOISYA TERNATA. WISTARIA MULTIJUGA — BEAUTIFUL BUT WRONGLY PLACED. THE SAME SPECIES ON A HIGHER WALL. 84 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. A STORY OF A SEARCH IT must be a dozen or more years since I first began to want and to look for the Mt. Cenis Rest Harrow, Ononis cenisia, and it was not until 1922 that I first possessed and flowered it at Stevenage. Farrer and I hunted high and low for the plant when we were at Mt. Cenis together, and failed utterly to find it, and I have hunted for it there twice since with the same result. As a matter of fact, I believe that just as there is no such mountain as Mt. Cenis — only a pass named after a mythical moun- tain— so Ononis cenisia does not grow at the place after which it is named, but only on the road leading to it. Mr. Stuart Thompson in his " Alpine Plants of Europe " gives " the plateau behind the Hospice at Mt. Cenis " as a station for the plant, but I do not think that careful observer ever found it there himself. Probably he was quoting some authority with a gift for " exaggerating things which never happened." For I put the whole of that plateau through the small sieve, quartered and fine-combed it for hours, and finally convinced myself that not only does Ononis cenisia not grow there, but that it never reaches such altitudes. You only begin to find it when you get down below Landelebourg. I saw it there by the roadside as I trundled down in a motor chars-a-banc in July, 1920. And it was from a chars-a-banc, too, that I first found the plant a fortnight earlier. We were going up from Grenoble to La Grave. A mile or so below that village I saw on roadside screes a brilliant little pink and white Rest Harrow, perfectly prostrate, and felt quite sure it must be my long-sought Ononis cenisia. I was so thrilled that directly after dinner that evening I hurried back down the Grenoble road and groped about in the dark on the screes, striking matches until I found my Ononis and satisfied myself that it was cenisia. It is rather banal after longing and looking for a rare alpine for a dozen years to spot it finally from the back seat of a chars-a-banc, growing in thousands by the roadside. However, motor coaching in the valley of the Romanche is not without thrills. The road runs like a mantelpiece on the sheer cliff, and you get glimpses of the river down on the hearth 500ft. or 600ft. below. At every hairpin corner of the mantelpiece our driver developed a tickle in his left ear which he elaborately scratched with his right hand. These tricks of his, however, were wasted on us. We were already too scared to be further scared by them. Next morning- I returned to my Ononis screes and dug up a goodly number of youngish plants, and very nicely they came up from the loose, stony soil with good mops of fibrous root. When I got them home they settled down and grew for a w-eek or two — and then died, every one of them. Why, I could not imagine, but they did. After La Grave and a few splendid days at the Lautaret I met Ononis cenisia again, and with it more dreadful adventures. We wished to get from Lautaret to Briancon, and we wished to drive. A M. Simon and an ancient phieton were produced. There were three other passengers, two French airmen and a small French girl. We packed into a seat at the back. A few miles down the Briancon road Ononis cenisia became plentiful, little solid clumps of warm rose and snow white all along the roadside, and here and there Campanula Allionii in great colonies of almost stemless Canterbury Bells among the loose stones. And just when these two rarities became most plentiful and brilliant, things began to happen. The two airmen in front grew uneasy and peered over at the ramshackle wheels, the wheels wobbled and rattled as our pace increased, M. Simon kept saying " Oh ! oh ! " the airmen said they would rather be in an aeroplane, and then very tactfully our horse, which was running away, brought us up with a jolt in the ditch and stood kicking the phaeton to pieces, which was the best thing he could do with it. He was so success- ful that another conveyance had to be fetched from the nearest village. After a. long delay, during which we studied Ononis cenisia, we all repacked ourselves in the new conveyance, and, when the passengers were in, there was no seat for M. Simon. However, he fixed himself on the little iron handle of the brake — one of those that you wind round and round — and thus secure he went sound asleep. We had a good sensible horse, however, for with one rein lying in a serpentine along his back and the other hanging in a loop within iin. or 2ius. of the ground, he safely conveyed us and the sleeping Simon the last eight or ten miles to Briancon. But this, which was to have been a note on Ononis cenisia, seems to have degenerated into a tale of high adventure in the Alps. At Briancon, within an hour's walk of the town, we found Ononis cenisia again, and in great profusion. No wonder I had never found it at Mt. Cenis. It is not a high alpine at all, but a sub-alpine, and oh! such a lovely little thing. The largest plants are ift. across, and their wiry stems lie flat upon the ground, radiating in all directions from a common centre, and all set with perky little stem- less pea flowers with standards of warm, bright rose pink and keels of pure white. The only other plant which interested us at Briancon was Mistletoe growing on Scots Pines, Pinus sylvestris. I had never seen Mistletoe on this host before. In July, 1921, I returned to the Lautaret and walked far down the Briancon road to collect Campanula Allionii and seeds of Ononis cenisia. But it was a bad year for seeds, and after examining hundreds of plants I only secured a couple of dozen or so seeds. These germinated well, and this last summer (1922) I flowered Ononis cenisia at Stevenage for the first time. My two or three planted-out plants on the rock garden look extremely well (all the others of the crop were long ago dispersed) and none the worse for such frosts and rains as the present winter has already given them. For Ononis cenisia I would recom- mend light gritty soil or moraine and the fullest, hottest sun to be found in the rock garden. Stevenage. Clarence Elliott. SOME WOOD SORRELS THERE are few choicer looking British native plants than the Wood-Sorrel, Oxalis Acetosella. Showy it is not, though at dusk its fragile veined-white blossoms shew up in a way they never do by day. It is certainly worth naturalising on shady banks in the garden for, though quite easy in shady corners, it never encroaches into the sunlight. There is in commerce a pretty pink form also worth growing. Not all the Wood Sorrel family, however, are so retiring either in colour or in natures The brilliant and floriferous O. rosea, for instance, usually considered a greenhouse plant, makes a gorgeous display on a ledge with a warm exposure and, if an unusually hard winter kills off the plants, self-sown seedlings are almost certain to appear in near-by crevices the following spring. O. corniculata, with splendid bronzy foliage, is like- wise killed by hard frost, only to renew itself from self-sown seeds. In fairly gritty soil with a westerly exposure, O. enneaphylla will succeed and most rock gardens now contain it, but O. adenophylla, of which a picture appears below, likes rather a sunnier aspect. The two plants have many obvious similarities yet, seen side by side, they are quite distinct. Perhaps O. enneaphylla has rather the choicer look, but adenophylla is certainly freer to flower. Both are typically white, mauve tinted, and both have so called " rose " varieties which are, only slightly deeper in colour than the. type. Less commonly seen is the golden blossomed O. lobata, a Chilian species, which flowers in late autumn and is accordingly valuable. It likes a sunnv corner. AMONG THE CHOICEST OF ROCK PLANTS, OXALIS ADENOPHYLLA February 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 85 THE BEST OF THE RAMPIONS PHYTEUMA COMOSUM, if not a rarity, is one of those plants you find only in special gardens, where it is tended as a treasure of high value. I saw it here and there in English rock gardens and some- times on the Continent, but it is nowhere common looking rather like cast-iron, and their teeth are narrow and sharp and look as if they would bite those rash individuals who attempt to molest it. " Sitting, as it seems," says Farrer, " among the scalloped leaves of sombre greenish-black, unfold the clusters of immense diaphanous, yet solid flowers like bunched soda-water bottles of pale purple, deepening to their tip, from which the curly stigma goes frisking forth in manner weird and wild. It is indeed the strangest of all children of the cliffs, and, I may also say, the hardest to dislodge." That description is the best I have ever read of this curious denizen of the cliffs, which seems rather a beast than a plant when seen in the dark and shady walls. We succeed with it here only in a north wall, but in English gardens I have seen it very happy and in some cases (by Mrs. St. Quintin at Scampston Hall and Dr. Jenkin at Hind- head, for instance), better than I ever saw it in nature. They grow it in well drained pots and, as can be seen by the illustration, bring it to perfection. Geneva. H. C. THE FLAME NASTURTIUM T1 ; PHYTEUMA COMOSUM GROWING AT HINDHEAD, SURREY. in cultivation. In nature, however, it is a common thing, at least in its special habitats. You may find it not far from Milan in the north side of the Monte Barro (Brianza), and on the Corni di Canzo, as well as on all the mountains of Lombardy, Bergamo, South Tyrol, in the Dolomites, all over the Lago di Garda, in the rich and picturesque Val di Ledro and up to Dalmacy. Near to Bellagio, at the foot of the rich Grigna, from Lecco to Bellano, and from Bellagio westwards you may take it from the boat if you follow the shore of the lake. There the Phyteuma hangs from the rocks and the garden walls just above the lake. In some cases even, the waves break upon it. In the vicinity of Storo (Judicary), and at the foot of the Monte Tombea, it forms enormous tufts of great beauty. In some parts of the Dolomites it is in such quantities that the walls are covered with it. But how hard to collect it ! It sends its fat and fragile roots into the narrowest crevices of hard rocks, especially dolomitic ones, and there one may try and try again. One has the greatest trouble to extract the plant. The best thing to do is to try to find it in some locality where the stone is of friable nature, such as slate, for instance, which is easily broken down. I once found in the wild Vestino Valleys (Lago di Garda), a corner where it grew in old rotten slate cliffs, whence the plant was very easy to extract. Generally speaking, the best means of collecting the plant is to seek it at the foot of the walls, in the heaps of debris (pierriers), where one sometimes finds young ones which are condemned to die, as the plant can never reach maturity elsewhere than in the crevices of rocks. Such is usually the case with all saxatile plants (Primula Allionii, Potentilla Saxifraga, Saxifraga florulenta, etc.). In the cliffs with a north aspect which it haunts, Phyteuma comosum displays its tufts of dark metallic green foliage, which are in themselves a curiosity. The leaves are thick and leathery, HOUGH Tropa30- lum speciosum is not everybody's plant, there are few who have not tried to grow it. A weed in some districts and a plant that refuses to endure life in other places, no matter how great the care lavished upon it, the Flame Nastur- tium, naturally, inspires no little interest, apart from its undeniable attractions. It is not that it is tender. Far from it. The warm and sultry south is what it dis- likes, a cool aspect and root-run in the north or north-west being its chief delight. In some gardens it will range over Hollies and Rhododendrons to a height of 15ft., and more, wreathing them with ropes of scarlet from midsummer to autumn and giving in addition an attractive display of china-blue fruits which produce an abundant crop of seedlings. It is probable, however, that most gardeners, no matter where they are situated, could grow this handsome climber if the right conditions were ac- corded it. In the first place an aspect should be selected that is not exposed to the full noonday sun. T. speci- osum really delights in sun, or rather its upper, or flowering parts do, but its stems and roots should be in shade. The most suitable medium is any free loam liberally intermixed with leaf-mould, well decayed vegetable rubbish and some really old cow manure, this being worked to a depth of 2ft. at least. The roots should be planted sins, deep in this, just when growth is commencing in spring, and an ample supply of moisture during the first summer is essential. Those who have tried other means and failed may coax T. speciosum into prosperity by this means : — Make a hole, or trench, 30ms. deep, thoroughly loosening the soil at the bottom, and half fill this with the above compost. Now set the roots in the sunk bed, the surface of which will be some i8ins. below the ground level. Then, when the shoots are about 6ins. high, commence top- dressing with more of the compost and continue to do this as growth proceeds until the bed is about a hand's breadth from the top, and it is unlikely that one's labour will go unrewarded. Some have had better results with seed, but in my experience this should be sown in autumn, and the sunk bed may be adopted where there is reason to suppose there will be any difficulty. In any case the Flame Nasturtium has so many excellent qualities that it is worth a deal of trouble. By way of indicating the variety of uses, other than as a wall covering, to which T. speciosum may be put, I may add that our best plantation is in a bed of deciduous Azaleas, whose branches, after the flowers are over, are festooned with masses- of brilliant colour. A neighbour grows this plant most effectively among various dwarf shrubs on the northerly slope of a bold piece of rock gardening and yet another, as I have suggested, has estab- lished it among the evergreens and flowering trees of open woodland. Cambria. SCARLET BLOSSOMS OF TROP.«OLUM SPECIOSUM. 86 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. CORRESPONDENCE PLANTS FOR SWITZERLAND. T WAS interested in M. Correvon's little note on sending plants to Switzerland, (page 35) as I am temporarily held up from sending plants to France, Italy, Holland and Switzerland including some for M. Correvon himself, through not having performed certain antics which the postal authorities of Stevenage tell me are necessai \ before I can send plants to these countries. Our Post Office refuses to receive parcels of plants for France, Switzerland, Italy and Holland unless they are accompanied by a Phylloxera certificate, and to obtain this it seems I have to have an expert down from the Board of Agriculture, paying a fee of 2 guineas, as well as the expenses of the gentle- man's little jaunt into the country. Not long ago it was enough, in sending plants to France, to capture a Justice of the Peace and get him to perform certain mystic rites and incantations with a Bible. This seemed quite to satisfy the Post Office folk, but now they insist on the more expensive measures. It would be a great kindness if the Editor of The Garden would investigate the whole matter and publish authoritative information for the use of readers of this paper. If M. Correvon and the Swiss Government are right, thenit would seem that our own Ministry of Agriculture and Postal Authorities are wrong and have been misleading myself and other English folk who are wanting to send plants abroad. M. Correvon suggests that English nurserymen should " deal firmly " with the Post Office. But for an individual to deal firmly with a Government department is about as easy as for an individual to deal firmly with, let us say, a quicksand If the Swiss Authorities do not require or desire any Phylloxera certificate, why should our own Postal and Agricultural Authorities insist on our going to the expense of procuring it ? The older joke of getting a Justice of the Peace, who had never heard ■of Phylloxera, to swear on the Bible that none •existed within so many rods, poles or perches of one's alpines was vexatious, but comparatively harmless and not expensive. This later develop- ment, however, threatens to be a serious menai e to trade. — Clarence Elliott, Stevenage. THE EARLY SEASON. •TPHOUGH the winter has doubtless been extra- ordinarily mild all over the country, growth here has never within memory been so forward as it is at the time of writing (January 29). In addition to the usual winter flowering bulbs ^Snowdrops, Eranthis, etc.), which, by the way, •were not abnormally early, the following are already bearing fully expanded blossoms : Prunus Pissardi, Rhododendron precox and RR. Silber- rhad and Nobleanum, Berberis Bealei, Daphne Blagayana, Azara microphylla, Omphalodes cappa- docica and O. nitida, Anchusa myositidiflora, Ericas carnea and darleyensis, Cistus rosmarini- folius, Gentiana acaulis, Genista fragrans (quite unprotected), Primula denticulata and various blue Primroses, Saxifrages Boydii alba, bursi- ■culata, apiculata and others, Cheiranthus AUionii, Pulmonaria Mrs. Moon (always the first of its tribe here), Yinca minor in several colours, Polygala Chamsebuxus purpurea (exceptionally good) and a number of other little things. There are shoots on hybrid Clematises 6ins. in length, and such ■shrubs as Exochorda grandiflora and several Spirzeas are in almost full leaf. It is also worthy of note that woodland Daffodils are in bud, and many last year's Californian annuals are not only still surviving, but bright with flowers on any sunny day. — A. T. Johnson, Talvcajn, North Wales. A LITTLE-KNOWN SHRUB. ""PHAT interesting plant Philesia buxifolia belongs to the Natural Order of Lilacese, and is closely allied t" the better-known greenhouse climber l.apageria rosea. It is quite hardy in many parts THE ROSY-RED PHILESIA BUXIFOLIA. of this country, being especially happy in the moist, hilly districts of the west coast. The plant illustrated is growing in an Essex garden, where it is quite at home, growing and flowering freely. Philesia buxifolia was first discovered by Commerson in the Straits of Magellen, but it also extends along the west coast of South America as far as Chili and Valdivia. In the latter country it is known as Pepino, and is found at the summit of the Cordillera growing in marshy places under Alerse trees. It was first introduced by Messrs. Yeitch of Exeter through their collector, Mr. Lobb, and exhibited in flower at the Chiswick Flower Show in June, 1853. In its native country it forms an erect, much-branching shrubby plant 3ft. to 4ft. high clothed with narrow evergreen leaves iin. to iAins. long. On the tips of the branches the large solitary drooping flowers are produced in June. They are some- what waxy in texture and rose red in colour, and from 2ins. to 2jins. long. A hybrid has been raised between Lapageria rosea and Philesia buxifolia, and is known as Philageria Veitchii. It is a half-hardy scrambling shrub — W. I. THALICTRUM ADIANTLFOLITJM AND ITS HARDINESS. AS the above is a native species, it is difficult to account for Mr. Linders Lea's experience as to its tenderness T. minus (the specific name) varies considerably in size and other features according to soil and locality, and T. m. adianti- folium is one of these forms. It is possible that some of the best garden varieties (i.e., the most glaucous) may prove somewhat tender inland when their place of origin is the sea-coast. A plant from stock secured from the Great Orme's Head, for example, might feel the pinch of winter rather severely on a Staff- ordshire moor ; but I have always understood T. minus to be distributed fairly abundantly throughout the limestone of Northern Britain. Our own stock, quite a pretty form, was gathered near B n x t o n, which should be bleak enough to test anything. — N. Wales YX7ITH reference to the hardiness of Thalictrum adiantifolium, I may say that I have grown it for some years and have found it to be quite hardy in the heavy soil of my garden. I have never given it the least protection during winter, yet it has not merely survived, but it has increased considerably. With the intention of bringing it indoors occa- sionally I planted a clump in a pot, but there was such a marked contrast between it and that in the ground that it was quite useless for the purpose 1 had in view. It never looked . healthy and died down for the winter a month or more earlier than the others. — G. W. Webb, West Wimbledon. A/TANY years experience of the Meadow Rue, referred to by your correspondent in the January 27 issue of The Garden, is that it grows like a weed. I have it running riot among a lot of tall Irises and a ruthless extirpation is needed to keep it within bounds. May I add a word in praise of the Stranvaesia undulata. Its spreading habit — one of mine is 4ft. high and T4ft. across — in no way detracts from its charm and the birds which in former years seemed rather fond of its clusters of lovely red berries, appear to be now regarding them as a last resource in the food line. In my view it is well worth a place in any garden. — Henry A. Sketchley, Petersfield. TN our experience, extending over a long period of years, we have never had any difficulty with this beautiful little foliage plant as regards its hardiness. We do not remember an instance in which it suffered during winter in the smallest degree. In Mr. Nicoll's beautiful garden at Monifieth it grows like a weed, increasing in size year by year, and that without any special treat- ment or attention. In a cottage garden at Carnoustie we know of a huge clump growing in what is little else than a heap of small stones, where it increases with such rapidity that the owner has to curtail it every year, and here again not the least protection is given or required. Nicholson gives the native place of T. minus (of which February 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 87 adiantifolium is a form) as the Northern Hemi- sphere, including Britain ; consequently, if this is correct, there should be no dubiety as to its hardi- ness.— Albyn. A S you invite remarks (page 48) as to the hardiness of this graceful foliage plant, commonlj- known as " Poor Man's Maidenhair," I beg to say that I grew it in the open border without any protection for about forty years, during which period we had as much as 20° and even 250 of frost some winters, and I never knew the plant to suffer therefrom in even the smallest degree. — ■ Chas. Comfort, Midlothian. PERPETUAL-FLOWERING CARNATIONS IN WINTER. T SHALL be very grateful if any of your readers can give me a few hints on the secret of bloom- ing Perpetual Carnations in the winter months. I have a small house devoted entirely to Carnations, and get plenty of blooms during the months from March to October, but not at this time of year, when they would be most appreciated. The house is heated, but being the end of a range of houses, the temperature does not often exceed 50°, unless it is sunny. We put our fresh plants in this house in September or October. — Flowers. [We sent the enquiry to Messrs. Allwood Brothers, and subjoin their reply : " The main reason why Perpetual-flowering Carnations do not produce large supplies of bloom in mid- winter is that the plants are late-propagated stock and insufficiently matured, and invariably stopped too late in the summer to produce winter bloom. No growth should be stopped after mid-July to give good winter results ; while in the case of young plants, if they receive a check from want of potting during the spring and summer, they never recover sufficiently until the following spring. In the case of plants which are, say, a year old, if these have been allowed to bloom to excess during the previous spring and summer and early autumn, they are too exhausted to give good results during the winter. It is advisable at all times to cut flowers with long stems. All Perpetual-flowering Carnations should be potted during the late spring, and if they are producing abnormal supplies of bloom, certain of these should be removed so as to minimise the strain ; but what is the common mistake and, perhaps, the greatest enemy of the Carnation is the practice of using unsuitable chemical fertilisers instead of a slow- acting specially compounded Carnation food. It is very evident that a chemical food acts as a drug and quickly undermines the plants' constitution, whereas a slow-acting organic food gradually feeds and builds up the plants, so that during wintertime, when the growth is at its lowest, it feels the benefit of these plant-building properties. As to the treatment of Perpetual-flowering Car- nations during winter, no house should be allowed to exceed 500 at night. If the night temperature is allowed over 500, the plants have been forced and weakened ; but even if the greenhouse is kept at, say, 450 or as low as 40°, it is essential to have some ventilation so that there is a free circulation of air. Once the air becomes stagnant the plants suffer to a marked degree." — Ed.] CHRYSANTHEMUM TOKIO. TV/TR. ENGLEHEART is quite wrong in saying (page 23) that I am " under some mis- apprehension about this variety." If he had read my note attentively he would easily have perceived, as I am sure other readers have, that I fully understand what I am writing about. Evidently he does not. Briefly, what are the plain facts ? Mr. Woodall on a recent visit to the Paris Chrysanthemum Show saw " a Japanese variety called Tokyo, with tubular petals and pretty pink colouring," as he tells us, which entirely won his admiration. Is . he, too, under some misapprehension ? Of course not, for there is no ambiguity about his statement, which is perfectly definite. It so happens that I also saw the same variety at the same show. Both Mr. Woodall and I are in complete accord that we are discussing one and the same variety. Both of us have seen it ; Mr. Engleheart has not. That being so, it must be patent to every reader with a logical mind that if there is any mis- apprehension it is certainly not on my part. The identity of the flower has not been called into question until Mr. Engleheart appears on the scene with his forty-year-old red Tokio " of the strictly decorative class." After my long and varied experience in Chrysanthemum matters at home and abroad, Mr. Engleheart's criticism of my note in The Garden for December 30, 1922, makes me wonder whether I am drifting towards the verge of such floral incapacity as not to know the difference between a pink tubular-petalled exhibition Japanese Chrysanthemum and a small that the old red To Kio, a mere decorative variety, was raised by Simon Delaux anterior to 1882 ; the precise date cannot be determined satis- factorily. It was introduced into this country somewhat about that date. The pink Tokio, the subject of this discussion, was raised by Vilmorin and distributed in 1905, as already stated by me. Like many other French show varieties, it was never introduced into English collections, for reasons previously given. — C. Harman Payne. THE ROBESTCAS. A MONG the flowering trees of considerable decora- tive value, the Locust Trees, or False Acacias, occupy an important position. They are good town trees and thrive in light, sandy soils. The most important species and varieties are : R. hispida, the Rose Acacia of the South-Eastern United States, a wide spreading bush or small tree 6ft. to 9ft. high with large rose-coloured flowers. The variety macrophylla (syn. inermis, Carriere), has larger leaves and flowers, and THE ROSE ACACIA, ROBINIA HISPIDA. red Japanese of mere decorative merit. The only point at issue between Mr. Woodall and me is that he apparently thought that Tokio (or, as he spelt it, Tokyo) was a novelty, whereas I, on the other hand, adduced evidence to prove that it was an old one of many years standing. I was discussing a particular case, not a hypo- thetical one. That this variety is a pink tubular- petalled Japanese is no matter of personal taste or opinion but a pure matter of fact, and, as between Mr. Woodall and me, it has been proved by ocular demonstration. Mr. Engleheart's alternative that " possibly two varieties have been given the same name," after what has been said, must be considered to be self-evident. Such a thing has happened scores of times since Chry- santhemums began to be turned out in over- whelming numbers by the seedling raisers of the last forty years or more. It is a simple matter to verify these cases. Reference to some of the old Official Chrysanthemum Catalogues would have shewn Mr. Engleheart that To Kio (then usually written in two words) was not the Tokio under discussion. It may be useful to mention the blooms are richer in colour. R. Kelsey is a bush or small tree 8ft. or 10ft. high, probably more in sheltered positions. With us it is the most brittle tree cultivated, and unless copiously staked and tied, winds cause frequent losses of branches. Such a beautiful tree, with its rich rose-coloured blossoms, is worth a place on a wall where adequate support can be given the branches. R. neomexicana flowers in June and again in August. It is a tree of moderate size from the Rocky Mountains with pale rose flowers. R. Pseudacacia, the Common Locust or False Acacia, is a very well known tree with its pendulous racemes of white blossoms. It would not be difficult to give fifty varietal names of the varying forms of this tree. Decaisneana, rose ; fastigiata, a narrow columnar tree ; and inermis, a small mop-headed tree, a fairly frequent occupant of small gardens, are important. R. viscosa, the Clammy Locust from the mountains of Carolina, is a tree of moderate size with pale rose blossoms. Failing seeds, the usual method of propagation is by grafting, using the Common False Acacia roots or small stems as stocks. — A. O. 88 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. THE CULTIVATION OF THE PEACH How to Avoid "Gumming." WHAT are the causes of gumming in Peach trees ? I know some of them, but perhaps not all. I therefore pen these lines as a feeler for those who do know. As for prescribing a remedy, that is entirely out of my power, but I can suggest a partial preventive. We know that this malady is frequently caused bv maltreatment or accident. Anything which will interrupt the vital work going on within the inner bark, is likely to cause it, and the outer bark is not sufficiently thick to bear with impunity a blow from a hammer or violent pressure from a nail or tie. We also know that the Plum is liable to suffer in this way if the stems are injured. I have a suspicion, however, that there is something in the Peach, as it is generally grown, to predispose it to gumming. For one thing, I believe the Plum stock is too powerful and too precocious for the Peach. If you lift a young Plum tree any time and replant it before the ground becomes too cold, you will find on examination within a week or two it will have started making new roots. The chances are it would be doing the same thing if undisturbed, though perhaps to a more limited extent. It is possible that a Peach on its own roots would not do so, though I cannot prove this. I planted some young ones on their own roots some years ago with the object of testing this matter, but had to leave them behind me before the result was apparent. Does the early starting of the Plum stock cause too much and too early an impetus to the Peach ? Growing roots cannot be of much use to a plant without leaves, any more than feeding an animal without digestive organs, and it is possible that such early starting of the roots is a disad- vantage. Would it not be worth while, if you must have fan-trained trees, experimenting with a less vigorous and less precocious stock, such as the Sloe or Wild Bullace ? I am of opinion that the origin of gumming frequently occurs long before the malady shews itself. Just imagine what happens when a maiden tree has made a vigorous stem. For the formation of a fan-trained tree it must be cut down. This happens after the leaves have fallen and frequently after the roots have started afresh. What then becomes of the liquid matter taken up by the roots ? We cannot imagine them growing without taking in something, if it is only water. I am aware that the Peach buds can scarcely be said to remain dormant, excepting in very cold weather, but their appetite is not large, and I think it is quite possible that the predisposition to gumming takes place, even at this early stage. Then at the end of the second year the young growths are cut back again, when they are frequently of irregular size and must be manipulated accordingly. This gives another step forward for the malady. As partial confirmation of this theory, I may mention that I have grown many trees without any severe cutting and that gumming was un- known excepting from accidents or maltreatment, but in addition to the " non-butchery," the trees were lifted every year late in the autumn. This had the effect of retarding considerably both roots and buds. A fortnight's delay in the time of flower- ing of outdoor trees in this fickle climate often makes all the difference between a full crop and no crop. It also lessens the liability of a severe check on the constitution of the tree itself. Why grow fan-trained trees at all ? It is the most unnatural system we can adopt. No three branches have the same angle, there being every possible elevation between horizontal and upright, and we know that those nearest the up- right have the advantage. Even the Pear, which is much hardier than the Peach, rebels against this system, and the lower branches of a fan- trained tree, being horizontal, never do so well as the more elevated ones. Of course, we know that being near the ground they are more liable to suffer from cold, but this does not account for all the difference. I have not planted a young fan- trained tree during the last half century, though I have shifted some middle-aged ones. Some very nice pictures on paper have come under my notice and I have seen some of the best trees in the country grown on this system, including those trained by the great pomologist, Mr. Robert Thompson, indeed, I helped to manipulate them, and others were seen at Longford Castle, trained by Mr. H. W. Ward (who wrote a book on the subject), and afterwards well cared for by Mr. Tucker, but nowhere have I seen a perfect middle- aged tree. It is a difficult subject to teach and qualified gardeners seldom take the trouble to shew their young men how to do it, finding it much easier to do the work themselves. Then again it takes ten years to cover a 12ft. wall, even when one procures young trained trees, and that is more than the average life of a Peach grown out doors in this country. Now having abused the time-honoured system of fan-training, what have I to offer in its place ? My plan is to procure maiden trees produced on a soil which is not rich in nitrogenous matter and which in consequence are not over robust and are well ripened. These are planted 3ft. apart against a wall facing as near as possible south, in a suitable compost of loam, wood ashes, bone flour and old mortar. Four feet wide and i8ins. deep will be ample for all time, and half that width will do for the first two years. No nitrogenous manure should be used at this time. If the young trees are ripened to the point, nothing is cut off them, even the lower twigs, if there are any, and they are ripened, are left on, but any unripe growths should be removed. They will make plenty of shoots to select from during the growing season. These are to be trained on each side about ioins. or I2ins. apart, slightly above the horizontal and have the points stopped not later than the middle of July. Some of these will fruit the following season. An important thing is to take care of the successional shoots, which every qualified Peach grower knows how to do. As soon as the fruit is gathered, the shoots which bore it are cut away, leaving the successional shoots to take their places. With the exception of disbudding — which should not be done too much at once, and not till the new growths part easily from the stem without tearing the bark — this is about all the manipulation required. This plan is followed year after year, and iSins. on each side of the main stem is found to be sufficient for the bearing shoots. And now I shall be expected to give some evidence of the success of this plan. Mr. John Wright, V.M.H., said, in a now defunct contem- porary, " He now (1881) plants maiden trees, trims off the weak twiggy side growths, but does not shorten the leader. The trees are planted about four feet apart, the leader trained upright and the side branches herring-bone fashion." In a later note he said, "These are not crowded, as sound, stout, clean, green leafage is essential for the development of fine fruit. Every portion of a lofty wall was covered in less than four years and the crops of fruit were over on my visit, but a first-class judge (Mr. Iggulden), who knew them well, described them as remarkable." Three years later than the foregoing date (viz. 1884), Mr. Wright in describing the wonders of Wilton, under the management of Mr. Challis, said of the Peach trees grown in a large new house on the same plan. " They had been planted three years and every inch of the trellis was covered. . . . The fruit produced by this generous system of culture was of the first size, colour and quality." Wm. Taylor. SOME EARLY SALADS IN SMALL GARDENS A LL early salads are very tender because l\ the plants are grown without spells of / % dry weather coming to check progress / ^ and thus create toughness. The culti- / m vator should, first of all, take stock of the space available — whether under glass or on the open sheltered border. In every case it is advisable to use a rich soil, even in the cold frame, where an early crop of Potatoes may be grown, in addition to the Lettuces and Radishes. Potatoes thrive in a compost made up of half the bulk of well decayed leaf-soil. The latter and some good loam mixed should be laid on a mild hot-bed to a depth of ift. The Potato tubers must be planted ioins. apart in rows i8ins. asunder, with a level surface — not ridges — to receive the seeds of the Lettuce and Radish. These seeds must be sown very evenly and thinly — quite iin. from seed to seed. Rake in the seeds and then scatter on them a thin layer of sifted soil. The Lettuces must be thinned at an early stage and used, the leave* being very succulent, and before the Potat® haulm covers much surface soil the Radishes and Lettuces are. all used up. Mustard and Cress may be grown in shallow boxes in the greenhouse, or in a cold frame. Here again a rich compost is advisable. Fill the boxes level with the rims, then press down with a piece of board, water, and sow the seeds thickly, gently pressing them into the damp soil but not further covering with soil, then the resultant plants are clean and free from grit. Sow seeds every ten days to ensure a succession of young plants. Onions. — Where outside Onions are scarce a pinch of seeds, sown in two boxes filled with good loam and made firm, will provide hundreds of young plants many weeks before the latter are available from open-air sowings. Celery. — Usually the outdoor stock of Celery is exhausted early in the New Year and a boxful of seedlings will be much appreciated for flavouring purposes. It is only necessary to cover the seeds lightly and to keep the soil moist by immersing the box as required. Lettuce. — Seeds of an early Cabbage variety should be sown thinly in a box and placed near the roof glass ; when the seedlings are quite small transplant them in prepared boxes of soil at iin. apart and still retain them under glass. The second transplanting should be made in a rich soil on the south side of a wall or fence, the border being slightly raised ; plant at 7ins apart each way and place some sticks rft. above the bed to bear any light covering at first for a week or two, especially at night. Directly the young plants begin to form hearts, draw for use alternate ones ; those left will attain to a large size. Tomatoes and Cucumbers. — Where fire heat is limited the cultivator will gain much valuable time by purchasing a few plants raised early in January. At this season such are not difficult to establish in their respective houses. G. G. February 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. Vll. DOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO., Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RGH . FEEDS' SEEDS As grown IN THE ROYAL PARKS for the past 15 Years. 1923 CATALOGUE NOW READY Post Free on application JOHN PEED & SON Seedsmen & Nurserymen to H.M. The King WEST NORWOOD, LONDON. \>w & Son's BULBS Herbaceous Plants AND RO S ES For* Spring, 1923. All of the Finest Quality. The Catalogue of above will be sent, post free, on application to their Offices at Overveen, Haarlem, HOLLAND. GROW ONLY. GUARANTEED and make fhaf garder ductive and as lovely • aofren admired. Vegei tlicious quality lospi of Tours as pro- ; the one you have tlicious quality to spare ar\d to share all rr\e yttr round, and a perennially gay dis- play or glorious Flowers, rivalling in — the gardenof your dreams. We could ther increase rheir already immense ppmg powers, and so have still further roved iKeir Quality TOOGOOD & SONS.L™ Seedsmen foH.M.T« KING.ro H.M.Tne latc KING EDWARD, and for SOYc*«s -. Phlox, separate colours, 6,'-; mixed, 4'-. Papaver pilosura, showy orange-red, 3/-. Pyrethrum, Kelway's hybrids, 4 -. Rose Campion, deep crimson, 3/-. Sweet Rocket, 3 -. Rud- beckia Newmanii superba. 6/-. Rudbeckia Golden Ball, double, 6/-. Saponaria ocymoides, dwarf trailing, 3'-. Saxifraga, mossy, crimson or pink flowering, 6 /- ; white, 4 /-. Sweet Scabious, enormous blooms, dwarf or tall, fragrant. 2 B. Scabiosa caucasica, large exquisite mauve flowers, large two year old plants, 12/-. Shasta Daisy, 3'-. Sedum hyhiidum rubrum, 4/-. Silene compacta, pink, 1/4. Solidago Golden Wings, 6/-. Solomon's Seal, 3,-. Stachys (Lamb's Wool), 3 -. Star of Bethlehem, 1 ti. Sweet William, choice hybrids, double and single, 1/6; new Scarlet Beauty, Pink Beauty, Crimson Beauty and Double White, 3/-. Thrift, compact pink flowering 2/-. Tritoma (Red-hot Poker), 6/-. Tussilago (Winter Heliotrope), very fragrant, i> -. Tunica Saxifrages, edging or rockery, 3/-. Verbascum, large tall golden yellow, 6/-. Valerian, crimson, 3 -. Veronica gentianoides, dwarf, and spicata. tall blue, 4/-. Violas, Bath's bedding, from seed, yellow, blue, purple, white, mauve and good mixed!. 1 '9. Wall- flowers, not transplanted, blood red. ruby. pink, golden yellow and new lame-flowering hybrids. 3/6 100. Siberian and Alpine Wallflowers, for rockeries, edging old walls, etc., in flower for months, very I 'riant and pretty, 4/- 100. Strong Vegetable and Herb Plants, from open ground. Asparagus, Kelway's Giant, two year old roots, 7/- 100 : three years, 10/- 100. Sage, Thyme, Mint, Marjoram, 37- doz. Parsley, best curled, 1/4 doz. Spring Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Cos and Cabbage Lettuce, Leeks, Cauli- flower, Winter Tripoli Onions, Coleworts, Kelway's Sprouting Marrow Kale, Broccoli, Sprouting Broccoli, Pickling Cabbage 1.6 100. Strong Transplanted Plants for Cool Greenhouse, etc. All per dozen, half or quarter dozen same rate. Agapanthus (blue African Lily), 6/-. Aralia (Fig Palm), 6/-. Asparagus Fern, erect or trailing, 6/-. Begonias, evergreen, perpetual flowering, 4/-. Beauty Stocks, fragrant, early, 4/-. Cannas, lovely hybrids, 6/-. Cinerarias, exhibition and stellata, 3/-. Eucalyptus, 4/-. Bridal Wreath, 6/-. Fuchsias, choice, 5/-. Heliotrope, 5/-. Lily of the Valley, 3/-. Lobelia cardinalis Queen Victoria, 6/-. Blue, white, yellow Marguerites, 4/-. White or crimson Tobacco, 3/-. Passion Flower, S -. Primula obconica, new giant, lovely colours, 6'-. Primula malacoides, showing bud/ great favourite for cut bloom. 4 - strong seedlings, 2/- ; Sinensis, all colours : kewensis, yellow ; cortusoides, bright rose ; cashmeriana, rich purple ; denticulata, large heads, lilac, pots or rockery, 4/-. Rehmannia, pink trumpet, 6/-. Salvia Scarlet Zurich, 6/- ; coccinea, 4/-. Saxifraga sarraentosa, trailing, 4/-. Smilax, trailing, 4/-. Streptocarpus, beautiful new hybrids, lovely Cape Primrose, 6/-. Strong Hardy Climbers. Ampelopsis Veitchii, self climbing, small leaf, large roots, several trails, each 2/-. Clematis Traveller's Joy and Flammula (Virgin's Bower), white, rapid climbers, large two year roots, 1/9 each. Honeysuckle, very fine red-flowering Dutch, large plants, 2/6 each. Wistaria sinensis, large racemes of bluish-lilac flowers, 3/- each. Several dozen White Lilac, large roots, bushy, 1ft., 2ft. and 3ft., 6/-, 8/-, 10'- doz. Catalogue Free. MRS. PYM, f.r.h.s., lO, Vine House, Woodston, Peterborough. HERBERT'S NEW PINKS Have received Eight Awards of Merit and Gold Medals, I was also personally congratulated by Their Majesties the King and Queen at the R.H.S. Show, Chelsea. 12 CARNATIONS, Gold Medal Strain for 6/6 Price List tree on application. C. H. HERBERT, Nurseryman, ACOCK'S GREEN, BIRMINGHAM. The Shelley Sweet Peas Spring Sown Plants, ready Mid-April. 1923 Novelties, 3/- per dozen. 1922 Novelties, 2/- and 1/6 per dozen. Older varieties from 4d. to 1/- per dozen. Also ANTIRRHINUMS and GARDEN SEEDS. Lists Free. T. H. DIPNALL, F.R.H.S. Shelley, Hadleigh, Suffolk. LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet by Owen Thomas, v.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Offices, io, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. TOMATO CULTIVATION : UNDER GLASS AND OUTDOORS. By R. Gitfard Woollet. A practical booklet by the Editor of The Garden. 9d. net. by post lid. Published' at the Offices of " Country Lira," Limited, 20, Tavistock street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. SOW NOW to bloom in July and August.! Blackmore 8 Langdon's World renowned BEGONIA SEEDS (58 Gold Medals).! DOUBLES. Non5 can equal this for quality, size and Per packetl lovely form and colours of flowers ... 2 6 & 5 - 1 SINGLE. Of wonderful size and form 1 -, 2 6 & 5f- FRILLED SINGLE. A beautiful selection 1 -. 2 6 & 5.'- CRESTED SINGLE. Very fascinating ... 1 -. 2/6 & 5/- HANGING BASKET. A grand novelty, very graceful 1 6, 2 6 & 5/- GLOXINIA Seed, mixed, in most beautiful selection of colour 1/6, 2(6 & 5 - For prices of tubers of above and otiter specialities, write for free catalogue and mention this paper. Twerton Hill Nurseries, BATH Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN. Catalogue Free on application. C. ENGELMANN, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. SPECIALITE. PLANT NOW SPRING FLOWERING TREES AND SHRUBS (Carriage Paid.) V. N. Gauntlet*! & Co., Ltd., • Japanese Nurseries. Chiddingfold, Surrey. GLADIOLI. EXCELLENT QUALITY AND MODERATE PRICES. Descriptive List of Gladioli, Liliums. Begonias, etc., post free en application. 100 Gladioli, in 10 distinct named varieties, .. 816 50 „ .. 10 „ „ „ „ 4/9 100 Gladioli, in the finest mixture, .. .. 6/6 50 .... 3/9 ALL Carriage Paid. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. WILLIAM HELPS, Bulb Merchant, 11, Beechfleld Rd„ London, N.4 FROM ONE GARDEN LOVER TO ANOTHER GARDEN SUPPLIES LTD. (Boundary Chemical Co.) CRANMER ST. LIVERPOOL Solicit your Enquiries WHEN YOU WANT A GOOD THING FOR YOUR GARDEN In Rotes, Bu/bs. Shrubs, Plants, Seeds, Fruit Trees, Manures, Weed or Pest Kilters, Lawn Seed, Lawn Improvers, Ac rSATISFACTIOlN GUARANTEED OR MONEY RETURNED Catalogue Post Free Write us Now Choice Chrysanthemums Our Novelty List for 1923 is now ready, also General Catalogue con- taining the very best varieties in each section, and selected Per- petual Flowering Carnations. Writs to-day. Sent free from KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX, and at SAWBRIDQEWORTH, HERTS, CAMPING. — All Campers and lovers of out- door life should read " Camping," by J. Scott Moore, published at the Offices of " CofSTRY LIFE." LIMITED, 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2 ; price 9d. net ■ by post, lid. February 17, 1923. THE GARDEN. 89 GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. "" Peas. — To keep up a continuous supply of this delightful vegetable fortnightly sowings will be necessary. Peas enjoy a rich soil and plenty of space between the rows. Gradus is a good variety to sow now, and the seeds should be placed in flat drills i iins. deep. A distance of 3ft. ought to be allowed between the lines. If mice are troublesome, the seeds may be damped with paraffin and then given a coating of rod lead. A watch must also be kept for birds, which often destroy the young plants just as they are coming through the soil. Jerusalem Artichokes may be planted directly an opportunity occurs. Whole tubers should be planted 6ins. deep in rows 3ft. apart, allowing about 1 ft. between each tuber. If any of last year's crop are still in the ground, they ought now to lie lifted and the tubers covered with ashes until they are needed for the kitchen. When digging up Artichokes care must be taken to remove every tuber, or they will be a nuisance later on. Seakale. — The thongs prepared some weeks ago may be planted in lines 2ft. apart and ift. between the sets, covering the tops with iin. of soil. When growth begins it will be necessary to rub off all the shoots except the strongest ; then the ground must be kept free from weeds. During the growing season liquid manure may be afforded occasionally, while a light sprinkling of salt twice or three times during the growing period is also beneficial. The Flower Garden. Begonias. — Tuberous-rooted Begonias that are to be used for bedding should be placed closely together in shallow boxes with a little leafsoil and sand sprinkled between the tubers. A warm greenhouse or vinery will be needed to start them into growth, and when the shoots are visible the large tubers may be divided and the cut portions dusted over with lime. Each piece should possess at least one shoot or growing point. A little seed ought to be sown each year, and if this is done now nice plants will be produced to take the place of losses next season. Pots of fine soil should be prepared, and when the seed is sown no covering of soil will be necessary if the receptacle is given a sharp tap near the rim. Cover the pot with a sheet of glass and place in a temperature of 65° to 700. When the seedlings are large enough to handle prick them off in boxes, where they will make fair-sized tubers, while many will produce flowers. Begonias thrive in a compost consisting largely of good quality leaf-mould and sharp sand, and it ought not to be packed too tight around the tubers. Lily of the Valley. — After a period of three or tour vears these lovely plants become too crowded to produce strong flower-spikes, therefore it is necessary to replant a portion of the plants each vcar. The new ground should be dug deeply, liberally manured and a moderate supply of leaf- mould incorporated as the digging proceeds. Lift the old plants, select the best and strongest crowns, and replant them 3ins. or 4ms. apart. A partially shaded position is best for these chaste and beautiful " Lilies." Fruit Under Glass. Vines that were started a month or two ago ■will require attention in regard to the tying and pinching of the shoots. These must be brought down to the wires gradually, and where the spurs are old two or three tyings will be necessary, as the growths, being very brittle, are easily broken. Each shoot will require pinching, and the centre ■should be removed at the second or third joint beyond the bunch of fruit. Growths not bearing must also be pinched, but here the. amount of space to fill must be taken into consideration and the shoot stopped accordingly. Vines that are growing freely should have a night temperature of 6o° to 650, with a rise of several degrees during the day. The atmosphere should be kept moist and a little ventilation given when the sun is bright. This is essential or the foliage may be ■scorched and irretrievably ruined. Early in the afternoon the floors and walls should be sprinkled with water and the ventilators closed to secure .as much sun-heat as possible. When the plants are in bloorn the atmosphere should be kept on the dry side and the rods tapped daily to distribute -the pollen. Watering the roots must receive attention, and well rooted Vines in a properly drained border will take a copious supply until the Grapes are well advanced. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Raspberries. — The old canes were no doubt cut out at the end of the fruiting season, and now it will only be necessary to remove a few canes where they are too thick. The supports should be examined, and where the posts have decayed they should be replaced. If the supports are barked and the bases given a coating of tar, they will remain in a sound condition for a long period. Tie the canes to the wire supports and lightly fork over the soil between the rows. A mulching of leaf-mould and decayed manure will be beneficial. T. \V. Briscoe (Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq.), Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. the seedling weeds which are lying dormant and all but invisible. in \ ui.es Comfort (Formerly Head-Gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian). FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Rhubarb. — If established plantations did not receive a dressing of manure in autumn, a liberal one should be applied now, and in either case the ground between the stools should be forked over. The manure should be half decayed. Celery. — As the Celery crop will be getting well through, the cleared ground should be deeply dug. The site of each trench makes an ideal site for a row of Peas, and if this suggestion is adopted it will be unnecessary to apply any manure. Chives. — These provide an excellent substitute for Onions in spring before young Onions become plentiful. Established clumps of Chives may be broken up now and transplanted into rich soil. Spinach. — If the soil is in fairly dry condition, apply a dressing of soot, dry fowl manure or nitrate of soda, and hoe it in with the Dutch hoe. The Flower Garden. Herbaceous Plants. — Weather permitting, new plantations may now be made. In breaking up established clumps the outside parts should be selected for planting, as they are the most vigorous. All the beds or borders of this class of plants should be dug over, and if there are blank spaces left for half-hardy plants later on, these should be more deeply dug than the quarter generally. Early Sweet Peas. — Autumn-sown Sweet Peas intended for flowering in June should be shifted into 6in. pots and be staked with dwarf, twiggy stakes, beech for preference. Keep the plants cool and well exposed to the light. Bulbous Anemones should now be planted as soon as the state of the ground will permit. A light, well drained soil is necessary for their successful cultivation, and where the natural soil is heavy it should be improved by the addition of sand or old potting soil. Plant about 2ins. deep. In the event of keen frost setting in, some protection must be afforded the plants. The foregoing remarks are also applicable to Ranunculi. Climbing Roses should now be pruned as they start into growth early. A good deal of autumn pruning may have been done among the ramblers, but the operation should be completed now. As far as possible the old shoots should be cut away and the best of the young shoots retained. If the latter are deficient, some of the healthiest of the old should be retained. Fruit Under Glass. Early Vines. — Continue to tie down the laterals and stop them, leaving two joints beyond the bunch. Stop all sub-laterals beyond the first joint. If two bunches appear on the same lateral, the weaker of the two should be cut away. Over- cropping generally must be guarded against. Melons. — As solar heat and light are now on the increase a sowing of Melon seed may be made. Sow the seeds singly in small pots three- quarters filled with pure maiden loam and plunge in bottom heat. Maintain a temperature of from 650 to 70°, and utilise the sun-heat as far as possible at this stage. Hero of Lockinge (white flesh) and Munro's Little Heath (scarlet flesh) are suitable varieties for present sowing, both being good setters and bearing medium-sized fruits. Tomatoes. — Plants should be shifted into sin. pots, using only a moderately rich compost. The aim should be to build up plants with firm stems and short joints. Expose to full light. The Pleasure Grounds. Walks and drives should be kept clean by means of the hoe and rake. They should be gone over whenever weather permits to check GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Buddleia asiatica should now be propagated by means of cuttings, using half-ripened twiggy shoots for this purpose. The cuttings should be inserted in pots containing sandy soil and plunged in a close case with slight bottom heat at command. This plant is sometimes troublesome to propagate from cuttings, but little trouble should be experi- enced if slender, twiggy growths are selected. They should make good plants in 6in. pots the first season, and these are useful for furnishing the stages in the conservatory. After flowering the plants should be pruned back and grown on into 8in. and loin, pots, in which they should in their second year make fine specimens 6ft. to 10ft. high. During the summer they should be plunged outdoors in an ash bed, as this helps to ripen the wood and ensures free flowering during the winter. This is a very elegant plant, and produces its long, slender sprays of fragrant white flowers very freely. If only for its delicious perfume this plant should be more generally grown, for although introduced in 1874, it is by no means a common plant in gardens. It grows freely when planted out, and is very fine for clothing pillars in a large cool house. Buddleia Officinalis is a later introduction from China and has dull lilac-coloured flowers with a yellow eye. It is a stift-growing shrub, easily propagated from cuttings and, like B. asiatica, flowers during the winter months. Although it does not possess the grace and charm of B. asiatica, its strong honey-scented flowers appeal to some people. This plant succeeds quite well under the cultural conditions indicated for B. asiatica. Asclepias curassavica. — This is a useful and showy plant for conservatory decoration, as it lasts in flower for a very long time. If seed is sown in a warm house at this time, the resultant plants will flower during late summer and autumn. As it is a slender-growing plant, the best results are obtained by potting off four seedlings into a small sixty-sized pot, afterwards potting them into 5in. pots, in which they should flower. They should be allowed to grow straight on without stopping. These plants only require an ordinary greenhouse temperature, and will grow quite well in any ordinary potting compost. This is a free- rooting plant, and when the pots are well filled with roots frequent applications of diluted liquid manure should be given. If desired, the plants can be grown on for the second year. Cannas in 6in. or 7in. pots are very useful and showy plants for furnishing the stages in the conservatory during summer and autumn. Strong rhizomes should now be selected and trimmed to a suitable size to go into 4S-sized pots, using a light rich compost for them. They should be stood in a warm house with a temperature of 60° to 650, and should be given very little water until they start into growth and have made a quantity of roots. This is very important, for if overwatered at this stage they are very apt to decay. When growing freely and the pots are well filled with roots, they should have a shift into 7in. pots, using a very rich compost, as thev are gross feeders. As these pots become well filled with roots plenty of diluted liquid manure and soot water should be applied. Cannas grown in this way should have growth restricted to a single shoot. By growing successional batches a display of bloom may be had until well into autumn. Large specimen Cannas are very useful for standing on beds in the conservatory. Where such are required they should be made up early next month, putting several strong rhizomes into loin, or 12m. pots, leaving room to give a good top-dressing. Given generous treatment such plants keep up a good display until Chry- santhemums come in. Sollya heterophylla. — This twining Australian plant with its beautiful blue flowers, which are produced in wonderful profusion over a long period, is one of the most charming of our cool greenhouse plants, as also is the smaller Sollya parviflora. They make pretty pot plants with the growths neatly tied to slender stakes ; but are seen at their best when they can be planted out in the conservatory and trained over a trellis or up a pillar. They can be propagated from cuttings, but the plants usually ripen plenty of good seed, which affords a ready means of increase. They grow well in a light loam with a little fibrous peat added. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. J. Coutts. 90 THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. The Pearl Bush (Exochorda grandiflora) is a fine shrub which is not accorded the attention it deserves. The majority of amateur gardeners who grow its near relations, the shrubby Spiraeas, seldom seem to include it in their planting lists, yet it is in its own way a more strikingly handsome shrub than any of its allies. E. grandiflora (syn. Spirasa grandiflora) is a hardy, deciduous shrub which forms a large bush, some 8ft. to ioft. in height, of slender branches which droop over in a most elegant manner. The foliage is of a delightful shade of emerald green, the compara- tively large leaves being of a soft and delicate texture. Soon after these have appeared the ends of the pendulous branches become adorned with long sprays of pure white, fragrant blossoms, each of the latter being about iiins. in diameter, so that a well grown bush of E. grandiflora is most attractive. Almost any soil that is not too dry will suit this plant, but it enjoys a warm, generous loam and a sheltered situation with full sun. This splendid shrub can be obtained quite cheaply and, once planted, it will carry on for years without any attention whatsoever. A Charming Alpine. — There are some plants which, no matter how well known, are able to hold their own against any rivals, and one of these is Hutchinsia alpina. For a cool spot in the rock garden, the shady side of steps or other place of the kind, this little plant is admirable, perfectly easy to grow and never demanding any attention. From its spreading mat of fern-like foliage H. alpina sends up in May a large number of -in. to sin. stems, each of which terminates in a loose cluster of milk-white flowers, which will remain fresh and cheerful right on to full summer. Though a good many of our smaller Cruciferous plants in white are apt to be unsatisfactory, if not a little mean, H. alpina more than escapes that opprobrium, the colour and character of its foliage, no less than the purity and density of its whiteness, together with its cheerful nature, doubtless raising it above the commonplace. In some gardens a patch of H. alpina is made to serve as a carpeting for the lesser Narcissi and other little bulbous plants with good effect. An Alpine Daphne.— The lovely Daphne Blagayana opens its ivory-white, lily-scented flowers in the early part of the year and is usually still in bloom to greet the spring. D. Blagayana is a true alpine and quite hardy, a creeping plant of lowly stature which delights in a rocky bed of rather cool, vegetable soil mixed with grit. Though many fail to grow it satisfactorily it is nut really difficult. It generally succeeds best in a half- shady aspect, but some excellent specimens have been grown with full exposure. Having planted D. Blagayana in such a bed as described above it is advisable to place pieces of rock or stone about the size of half a brick on the surface between the prostrate branches. As the latter develop they may be top-dressed occasionally with leaf- mould, grit and loam, the largest being layered by placing a stone just behind the terminal leaf-tuft. More stones and compost are added from time to time so that the plant will ultimately be established in a sort of low cairn. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS United Horticultural Provident Society.— Mr. Thumas Winter, who for the past ten years has been Treasurer of the United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society, having tendered his resignation owing to very serious illness, Mr. Arthur Bedford of Gunnersbury House Gardens, Acton, has been duly elected Treasurer, pro. tern., at a special meeting held on February 7, FLOWER GARDEN . EDGING AND OTHER PLANTS FOR FLOWER BEDS (J. G.). — As an edging to the Antirrhinums. Viola Snow- flake would be suitable. For the other bed we think Clarkias, pink and white, or white and red. would look better than the three colours together. The Schizanthus Dr. Badger's hybrids, with an edging of Sileue Empress of India, would look well, but a Viola would last longer i n bloom than the Silene. The golden-leaved Thy in- ■ . Thymus citriodorus aureus, makes a charming edging. The Iberis, to which our correspondent refers, is probably the perennial Candytuft, Iberis correaefol ia , pure white, compact, bearing flowers in profusion. IPOMCEA RUBRO - CCERULEA AND ADONIS (R. C). — The Ipomoea rubro-coerulea should be treated as a half-hardy annual. There should not be any.difficulty in raising the seedlings if treated similarly to Asters, for instance. Warm positions are best. The plants flower profusely iu pots in a cold greenhouse. Some should be so grown till they are in 6in. pots, then transferred to 8in. and the pots plunged to the rims in the outside border in May. Use only a medium rich compost. It is quite possible that the seeds were not properly matured or were in some way damaged in the case of the Adonis. If more are sown, place the pan in a cold frame and use a good compost in which some pounded brick and coarse sand has been mixed. Water by immersing the pan ; shade from the sun's rays. Cover the pan with glass. WATER LILIES UNSATISFACTORY (\V. M. G.).— Our correspondent did the right thing in planting the Lilies in baskets, but the latter should rest on mounds of loam at the bottom of the concreted pond. It is not necessary to cover the whole of the bottom, a space about 2ft. 6ins. square for each basket being sufficient. Lumpy, fibrous loam in which the grass roots are dead is best ; add a small quantity of decayed cow manure and half- rotted leal-mould respectively to a depth or 6ins. or so. Xymphaas like the sun and succeed best in rather still water, but some fresh should trickle in frequently, if not daily. The best months for planting are April. May and June. TREES AND SHRUBS. PRUNING SHRUBS ON WALL (A. M.. Kent).— All three shrubs named should be pruned as soon as flowering is finished. This would mean about March in the case of Lonicera fragrantissinia, April for the Forsythia and May with Pyrus japonica. THE WILD BROOM (" Summer ").— The Wild Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is not an easy shrub to transplant. Nurserymen usually cultivate plants in pots for sale so that planting could be done at almost any time. It is readily raised from seeds. An alternative shrub we suggest is Cistus cyprius. This is evergreen, thrives in most soils (except wet clay), and produces quantities of white blossoms in summer. C. cyprius is also cultivated in pots, not being easy to transplant. SINGLE LILAC (A. J. B.).— The variety Princess Maiie has very pleasing lilac-pink blossoms and is fragrant. This may be the variety noted by our correspondent, but the named sorts are now very numerous. Perhaps it was the variety Mme. Francisque Morel, which has very large thyrsi, but we should describe the colour as violet-pink rather than lilac-pink. THE GREENHOUSE. THE NAME OF A SMALL-FLOWERED NICOTIANA (M. C. M.). — The small white-flowered Nicotiana referred to by our correspondent is, undoubtedly, Sutton's Miniature White, which grows to a height of 18ins. and forms a lovely pot plant for the greenhouse. It is very sweet- scented. FORCED RHUBARB UNSATISFACTORY (W. E. T. . Sussex). — There is no fungus or other obvious cause of disease in the Rhubarb stalks sent for examination. There may, however, be disease, as our correspondent suggests, in the stools, but that we cannot ascertain without careful examination of them. Possibly the conditions are too dry for the work of forcing the plants. ROSE CULTURE UNDER GLASS i Auto-shreds willclear the plants of these and "Abol" will )>■■ beneficial in the ease of mildew. If necessary, we should not hesitate to use these for the purposes named. CCELOGYNE CRISTATA (H. E. S.).— This plant usually produces its flowers from February to April, and Imme- diately after blooming the plants make their season's growth. The pseudobulbs of C. cristata often present a slightly shrivelled appearance, which is not detrimental unless it is caused by loss of roots. Thi~ Coalogyne does not like repotting, and after being disturbed" it bates two years for the plants thoroughly to recover. Our correspondent's plants are evidently starved, and we should feel inclined to cut away a few of the old pseudo- bulbs and then pack pieces of peat or osmunda fibre \ h.twt-en the bulbs without taking the plant out of its pan. During the growing period a warm greenhouse essential, one where the temperature does not fall below bo0 Fahr.. the plants being shaded from all strong sunlight. Water should be given liberally while the plant> an- •.Towing, but directly the new pseudobulbs approach maturity a less quantity will suffice. A short rest should be allowed, the soil being kept just moist, and this treat- ment continued until the plants have flowered. The flower-spikes are produced simultaneously with the new growth, so care must be taken to prevent water resting in the young shoot, or the scape will perish. This is sometimes the cause for the non-appearance of blooms. DENDROBIUM NOBILE (H. E. S., Romsey).— This Orchid under ordinary conditions should flower from January to March. When the flowers are over the new growth will soon form roots at the base, and when these are seen any repotting or top-dressing may be done. When repotting ordinary flower pots or pans should be filled one-half of their depth with drainage material, and the rooting medium should consist of peat or osmunda fibre and just a sprinkling of sphagnum moss with the last layer of fibre. Do not overpot, but make the soil fairly firm, while the pseudobulbs will probably need a thin stake to hold them in position. The plants ought now to be placed in a warm moist house where the tempera- ture does not fall below 60° Fahr. A cucumber-house, stove or vinery is suitable. Afford water in moderation until the roots have taken possession of the soil, then a liberal quantity can be given until the pseudobalbs are fully matured. Shade the plants from hot sunshine and keep them fairly near the roof glass. When the season's growth is completed less water is needed, and a vinery from which the fruit has been gathered will be an excellent place for them to ripen their pseudobulbs. Now follows the resting period in a temperature of 50°, where the atmosphere is dry and only enough water is given to maintain the pseudobulbs in a plump and rigid condition. Annual repotting is not needed, and providtd tne plants are treated correctly in regard to watering, once in three years will be ample. FRUIT GARDEN. APPLES SHRIVELLED (E. H. J. Putney).— The Apples are past their season, and are not only shrivelled hut beginning to decay. They should be allowed to hang until they part easily from the tree, and they might then be kept well wrapped in paper. VARIETIES OF NUTS TO GROW (G. A. S.).— Otir correspondent cannot do better than grow the Spanish Chestnut, the nuts are sound, when matured and very sweet. The Kentish Cob is always reliable and very generally grown. If large trees arc desired, the Common Walnut is the best. A variety named Fertilis is very dwarf-growing iu comparison and fruits when the trees are quite young, and this is worth growing also. There would be room for both varieties, the last named, though the nuts are smaller, is very prclific. MISCELLANEOUS. ABOUT STORING APPLES (B. M. B.).— The early varieties of Apples if allowed to become ripe and fall off the branches easily, do lose much flavour and get quit.' mealy. Late sorts should be well ripened when gathered then they retain their freshm-ss for a long time, not shrivelling if not wiped with a cloth. Our corres- pondent seems to have treated the fruits correctly in the store. Very choice specimens merit the trouble entailed in wrapping each one in grease paper. If the Apples are peeled, sliced and placed in cold water for twelve hours they will plump up and be improved for cooking. Many early and mid-season sorts failed to keep satis- factorily in autumn and early winter. They lacked sunshine 1 TO DESTROY WORMS ON LAWNS (E. M. S.).— Preparations for this purpose are sold by seedsmen and horticultural sundriesmen, who also supply directions for use. A cheap and fairly effective remedy may be made at home by placing a bushel of Mme in a tub containing sufficient water to make a thin solution when stirred. .Allow the time to settle down, then use the clear liquid, adding to it an equal quantity of clear water. Apply- freely through a rosed watering-can. The worms will come to the surface. NAMES OF PLANTS.— J. S., Dumbartonsnire.— 1. Ilex Aquifolium var. flavescens ; 2, Osmanthus Aquifolium ; 3, Quercus glabra ; 4, Ruscus Hypoglossum ; 5, PiUmon- aria rubra. A. T., E. Yorks. — Cotoneaster frigida. H. P. — Ligustrum japonicum, "Japanese Pri\ et." Greenhouse Painting & Glazing £ I 'VITROLITE" SUPERIOR TO WHITE LEAD. PRICE 18,6 Per Gall. CANS EXTRA. PLASTINE > ; THE IMPERISHABLE PUTTY. PRICE 32/- Per Cwt. KEGS EXTRA. Hlb. TINS 5 6 EArU. 7 lb. TINS 4 3 EACH. WALTER CARSON & SONS, GROVE WORKS, BATTERSEA, S.W.II TELEPHONE NO.: -BATTERSEA. 1U30 (2 liues). February 17, 1923. THE GARDEN. IX. " Gardens — are not made by saying, 'Oh! how beautiful! ' and sitting in the shade." GARDENS are made by hard and oft-times dirty work, and it is the duty of Vim to see that the hands of the gardener do not suffer. Vim will quickly remove mud that is "caked on" and stains that are grimed into the pores of the skin. Vim restores the hands to their normal con- dition of cleanliness and their supple condi- tion of skin health. The hands which Vim cleans betray neither hobbies nor vocations. IN SPRINKLER-TOP CANISTERS Of all Grocers, Stores, Oilmen, Chandlers, etc. LEVER BROTHERS LIMITED, PORT SUNLIGHT. V233— Si X. THE GARDEN. [February 17, 1923. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a " Horse Shoe " with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 38,000 Sold. Used in the R.H S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet E and quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«PKiruve.laC°Ltd Southward St. LONDON. S.E.I. •* "That's the kind , of garden I'd like" ' "Strong hardy plants, flower- , rag nearly all the year round j as fine a bed of vegetables as you'll find within a few miles, and fruit trees that never fail. 1 can't get any- thing like the same results \n my garden." But you can. Use ECLIPSE Fish Manure and you will Think a minute. Realise that you're starving your plants and trees. The soil is poor. It gives insufficient nourishment. It lacks certain essential properties without which plants cannot thrive. Enrich the soil with ECLIPSE Fish Manure — andyou'H get hardier plants, a profusion of deep rich-coloured blooms and a good crop of fruit and vegetables, year after year. ECLIPSE Fish Manure contains Phosphates, Nitrogen and l-otash in their proper p oportions. Being largely organic, it supplies humus to the soil. • PRICES : 7 lbs. 14 lbs. 23 lbs. 2/6 4/- V- 56 lbs. 112 lbs. ., 12/- 24/- Obtainable from all the leading Seedsmen, or if sent by rail f- Per package to be added towards carriage. THE HUMBER FISHING & FISH MANURE CO.. LTD.. 9 Strmeferry. Hull. '$E L§BRATE D 12 & 13> KINQ STREET, Or+T*T\. Ot OWII^I) COVENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.O.2. " I T7 prpj TITT PR " THE WORLD'S BEST MANURE. J— i EL Fl\LJl 1 IHiIx First at Shrewsbury this year. '■ Prices:— 1 cwt., 30/- ; £-cwt., 16/6 ; 281bs., 9/- ; 141bs., 5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6. 'Phone Hornsty 2868. 11. THE GARDEN. [February 24, 1923. it THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE NOTICE TO OUR READERS /"\N receipt of a Post Card the under- ^"^ mentioned firms will be pleased to send their useful Catalogues free of charge. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twhrton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS 408, King's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Book of Seeds now ready R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. E]E]E]S]S]G]5]E]B]E]E]B]B]B]E]B]E]E]B] 1 KING'S ACRE ROSES H noted for over a Century for 19 hardiness and reliability. 13 Useful alphabetically 13 [51 arranged Catalogue of more 13 than usual interest, contain- 13 ing helpful information, with 13 Special Collections for all 13 Q1 purposes. Free on request. 13 [n] _ Nurseries 'Established 17 85. \U\ Gil KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 Pj] HEREFORD. [G] [DllatatalatafsIalalalalalalailsilalalsIS Tubs for shrubs. ■ WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S. Medal. 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak. etc. Highly decorative. — Price List from Pradal & Co., 26, Goodge Street, London, W.l. Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries i Landscape Gardening W. H. GAZE & SONS, Ltd. Garden Architects and Craftsmen, KINGSTON - ON -THAMES and at 10, Conduit Street, W.x. Model Gardens and Nurseries "THE QAZEWAY," Surbiton, S.W. Sole Makers of the " All Weather " Hard Tennis Court. Crazy and rectangular Paving Stone loaded on rail ; Sundials, Garden Figures, etc.. in lead and stone. Write to W. Gaze, 19-23, High St„ Kingston-on-Thames, for Illustrated Catalogue 4D, or an appoint- ment to inspect the Model Gardens and Garden Furnishings at "The Gazewav." Kingston 3000 (6 lines) May fair 3973-4. J. CHEAL & SONS, Ltd. NuRSKRIES CRAWLEY (( FOGWILLS Best-Result9' Seeds WILL GROW GET THIS FREE. dsmmh Guide to Gar-den Success IT TELLS ABOUT THE "SEEDS THAT ARE DIFFERENT." Post free with particulars of Free Seeds from FOGWILLS SEED HOUSE (Dept. E), GUILDFORD. Established 70 years. 4t Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED, I4,VlCTORIA ST.,LoNDON>S.W.I &58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths, Green & Hard Courts (Continued from opposite page.) JAPANESE BOWL GARDENS.— Miniature Figures, Pagodas, Huts and Bridaes, complete sample set, 7 6. New list post free. — Fekrest & Ward. 9-10, St. Marv-at-Hill, E.C.3. Trade supplied. GEORGE G WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT WRITE ME Landscape and Garden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. TO LOVERS OF ROCK GARDENS.— Inexpensive plants for sale. — Apply, Nell Shaw, Hatfield Place, Bath. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re- arranged. Plant- ing plans for borders, etc. Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries, HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving Full cultural directions at competitive prices, Post Free, tf this paper is mentioned. D. T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. RARE ALPINES.— Oxalis adenophylla, Iris histrioides major, Parochetus, Pelargonium endlicherianiim, Primula helodoxa, Sisyrinchium grandiflorum, Soldanellas and rare Saxifrages are, all included in our Alpine Catalogue, post free. Herbaceous Catalogue and List of Hardy Orchids also free. — Bowell & Skarratt, Nurseries, Cheltenham. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for cropping and Exhibition purposes. Thirty of,the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 1923. Post Free Copy on application. If interested, also ask for our Nursery List of Hardy Scotch Plants, Roses- Fruit Trees, etc. Thyne & Son, Dept. G, Dundee. WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus ! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small trees, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 19,6 per mile (full 1,760 yards). Send for trial lot or samplesto-day. — GREEN'S Surplus Stores, 205, Seymour Road, Lytham. WANTED. — "Garden," Vol. 1912, either bound or complete copies. State price. — Box W., "Garden" Office, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, London. BEGONIAS In superb quality and extra large tubers for Greenhouse or Bedding. DOUBLES, in 8 colours, flowers like large Roses and Camellias . . . . 6/- per doz DOUBLES, in mixed colours „ „ „ .... 5/- ,, SINGLES, in 6 colours, very large fine shaped flowers .. .. .. .. 4/6 „ SINGLES, in mixed colours ,, „ ...... 3,6 „ SINGLES, frilled or crested, in 6 colours .. .. .. .. .. 5/- „ SINGLES, frilled or crested, in mixed colours .. .. .. .. 4/- „ 12 doubles, 12 single?, 12 frilled single, 15/- 42 - per 100 35/- 30 - 24- 35/- 28 - Collection of 36 large Tubers, Post free on orders of £1 and over. Send for FREE Catalogue of named Begonias for Exhibition Basket varieties, Cyclamen, Carnations, Delphiniums, Gloxinias, rolyanthus, etc. NOW IS THE BEST TIME TO PLANT DELPHINIUMS. We have pleasure in offering the following Collections in specially gooJ value, in strong ground roots which will make a grand show of bloom this year. COLLECTION A, 12 extra choice sorts COLLECTION B, 12 very choice sorts 75 45 COLLECTION C, 12 fine sorts COLLECTION D, 12 good sorts 35/- 25 - CATALOGUE FREE, Apply : BLACKMORE & LANGDON, Bath, February 24, 1923.] r— E GARDEN. ^^ WEBBS' GOLD MEDAL SWEET PEAS.— Awarded N.S.P.S. and R.A.S.E. Gold Medals. The R.A.S.E. BBplay was admired by H.M. The King. 12 line named Exhibition varieties .. .. 6/- 12 do. do. (smaller packets) 31- 18 do. do 10/- Webbs' Selected Large-flowering, in 14 distinct colours, and nixed colours, each 8d. per packet ; post free. See Webbs' Garden Catalogue, free on request. WEBB & SONS, Ltd., The King's Seedsmen, STOURBRIDGE. WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials, Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— John Waterer Sons and Crisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks ; and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. x. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15. — Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER '.—Strong, round, chestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London.— Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., LIMITED, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. — Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli, THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli is now ready. Send for particulars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — HoDSON AND Son, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells <£ Co., Merstham, Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection invited. Price list post free on application. — Thos. Riters \& Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridgeworth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus.- Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 ; Express, 2/8; Epicure, 2/-: Ashleaf, 2/9; Great Scot, 1/10; Arran Comrade, 1/9; Kerr's Pink, 1/8; Majestic, 2/~ ; Rhoderick Dhu, 2/8 ; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early, 2/- : Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K. of K., 2/- ; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward, 1/10: Arran Chief, 1/9; T. W. & Co., Plotholder, 2/9; Field Marshal, 2/6 ; Golden Wonder, 2/- ; Tinwald Perfection, 1/9 ; Lilly, 2/-; Witchhill, 2/9; Bloomfleld, 2/-, etc. Carriage [Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks, Onions, Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce, Radish, Celery, [Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt., 2d., 3d. and fid. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries lor Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Ttllie, Whyte and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV {Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— jList of varieties with prices on application. — ALEXA.NDER [Graham, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. GASSON'S GARDEN & TENNIS BOUNDARY !NET. List now ready, with samples, post free. — Gasson & SONS, Net Works, Rye. Established over 100 years. BARR'S FLOWER & VEGETABLE SEEDS, of finest selected strains and tested growth, also the best Scotch and Irish grown Seed Potatoes. Descriptive Catalogue free. BARR'S HARDY PERENNIALS, ALPINES, ROCK PLANTS. AQUATICS, CLIMBERS, etc., for Spring planting. Catalogue free. . BARR'S LILIES, GLADIOLI, DAHLIAS, CANNAS, MONTBRETIAS, ANEMONES, BEGONIAS, TUBEROSES, •': .v "•, r, mm^mm&} FIGURE 8. by a glacier and is made up, almost entirely, of pieces of stone of various sizes, watered constantly from below. A "pierrier" consists of detritus which accumulates at the foot of a cliff. Though, naturally, varying with the rock of which the cliff is composed, a "pierrier" contains, as a rule, more soil and humus than a true moraine and has not the stream of ice-cold water beneath it. In the rock garden our " stone heap " may be moraine or " pierrier," or even a peat bed (tourbiere) dressed with stone as best may suit the plants we want to> grow or it may be a combination of all .three. The structure of the moraine was detailed a few months ago (April 8, 1922, page 163) and it is not proposed to go into its construction in the present notes. In case, however, a " pierrier " or peat bed is wanted, a few words upon their con- struction may be apposite. For either, the soil should be taken out to a depth of 2ft. to 2£ft. — the greater depth is the better — and may be used for banking up the " high- lands " of the garden. A " pierrier" may be con- structed of about twenty parts of February 24, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 95 granite drippings mixed with one part each of turfy loam, peat and decayed leaf -soil. If limestone or sandstone is employed a rather larger proportion of stone will be desirable, as such stones disintegrate to some extent in use. The peat bed will consist of fibrous peat and maiden loam — two parts of peat and one part of loam — preferably mixed with fair sized pieces of stone and faced with stone to retain the moisture. As a supply of water underground is very desirable for the peat bed, it may with advantage be made part and parcel of the moraine. The material for the paths is always a source of controversy in rock garden construction. In so far as these can be constructed of apparently natural ledges of rock the effect is admirable, but it is not feasible to form the whole of the paths in this way. Probably the best material for the remainder is gravel. With most stones an ordinary yellow gravel suits well enough, but if hard paths are wanted through weather-worn limestone rock- work, limestone chips are best. For many sites and situations greensward is impracticable in the rock garden, but there are places where a rock garden in a green setting is not only possible, but eminently desirable. Fig. S shews a section through one side of such a garden which contains at the dip a small sheet of water. This last is, however, by no means a necessary accessory, though water is always a picturesque feature of such a garden. It will be seen that the arrangement of the stone conforms to that in the all-stone garden (Fig. 5), but as a general rule con- tours in a rock garden on a grass foundation should he far more gentle (and more subtle) than in the older and more ordinary type. SOME EARLY-FLOWERING PLANTS THE BORDER CARNATION IN some districts Border Carnations may be grown very successfully with but little trouble, in others extra care is needed to accomplish a limited measure of success. The magnificent Perpetual-flowering section has not weaned thousands of amateur cultivators from their love of the Border beauties. Indeed, there are thousands who find, rightly enough, that there is room for both in their gardens. It is found in some localities that rooted layers do not winter well in the open border and that it is advisable to transfer them direct from the parent plants to a cold frame and, in due course, to plant them in their flowering quarters the following spring. Personally, I have been obliged to follow this plan while living in a South Coast district not far from the borders of Sussex. There was no difficulty with that grand old vanety Raby Castle and several others, but in the case of many of the newer sorts it was quite different. The heavier soils need very careful treatment. The planting may be done about the middle of March in bad weather ; a little earlier in good. End of February planting is practicable, even desirable, where the soil is light. In no case should the cultivator tread upon the border after planting. Where organic manures are needed, well rotted dung should be used, buried so as to be just below the roots when the Carnations are planted. It is not conducive to healthy growth to mix the manure with the surface soil and so bring it into direct contact with the roots at that stage. When the plants have become established and their roots begin to permeate the soil, the resultant growth will be much benefited through the presence of suitable manure within reach. Those who have not given this plan a trial should do so this spring. G. G. ALTHOUGH severe winters are, fortunately, uncommon in this district (West Porlock, Somerset), it is seldom that January i passes with but two nights on which ^ the thermometer dropped to below freezing point, as has been the case this year. Heavy rain and a few hailstorms occurred during variety has flowered at least as freely as it did last season. Iris histrioides opened its first bud on January 4, and a small patch was the glory of the rock garden for over a fortnight. I reticulata followed on at the end of the month ; there is something quite amazing about the rapidity with which its buds develop and burst into bloom. THE CHARMING EARLY-FLOWERING SAXIFRAGA ELIZABETHS. the first week of the New Year, and there was very little sunshine throughout the month ; but in spite of the mildness of the winter, plant life on the whole is not unduly forward. It is inter- esting to compare the effect of the wet, dull summer of 1922 on various plants with that of the dry, baking season of 1921. In some instances the results are only what one would have expected, but in other cases they are surprising. In the case of the two Winter Honeysuckles, for instance, Lonicera Standishii has been a sheet of bloom since Christmas, but L. fragrantissima has grudg- ingly produced only a few flowers half hidden among its evergreen leaves. Perhaps it is as well that nurserymen so frequently send out L. Standishii under the name of fragrantissima ! It is certainly a much more satisfactory shrub, though the individual flowers of L. fragrantissima are slightly larger and gain by having the associa- tion of the young foliage. They are both deliriously scented, most especially so in the evening, like the early Daphnes which cater for night-flying moths. As usual, the Winter Aconites in the grass under an Apple tree were in flower on New Year's Day, and this year won their annual race with Crocus Imperati and the first of the Snowdrops. Whenever there was a gleam of sunshine Crocus Imperati and C. Sieberi opened out wide in response, but in dull weather when no fertilising bees were on the wing they wisely remained closed and thus protected their pollen. Iris unguicularis has plainly shewn its disapproval of last summer's sunless days — as, indeed, one knew it would. Clumps which bore over 1,500 Sewers last winter only produced 400 by the end of January this year. It is worth noting, however, that the white Slugs seem to have a special passion for defiling the flowers and gnaw them through halfway up the stem. Another cheerful bit of colour was provided by a small clump of Cyclamen Coum nestling in the shelter of the slender leafless twigs of Corylopsis pauciflora from which the pale lemon cowslip-like flowers already dangled. The gayest shrubs in the garden were the bushes of Cytisus racemosus, 6ft. high and as much in diameter, literally smothered from top to bottom with the delicious golden racemes. Seldom are they able to flower quite so lavishly in the open in mid- winter, though they are scarcely ever entirely out of bloom at any season. Where it will succeed outdoors this favourite greenhouse plant develops a beauty never realised when confined to a pot. Coronilla valentina is useful also for winter flower- ing, and never fails to produce masses of its rather shrill yellow flowers, strongly scented, too, but in no way comparable to the Cytisus. Though the Coronilla is probably hardier than the Cytisus, it does not seem to be a long-lived shrub, but as it obligingly sows itself and grows very rapidly, the loss of an old plant can easily be remedied. The Winter-Sweet, Chimonanthus fragrans, seems to have been flowering well in most gardens this winter, which is rather surprising when one thought it required a thorough ripening of the wood. Is it possible that some of the stored-up energy from the heat of 1921 is finding expression this winter ? On the other hand, both the winter- flowering Clematises (C. calycina and C. cirrhosa), which were covered with bloom last year, have hardly flowered at all this winter. It is strange also to see Clianthus puniceus albus with flower- buds hanging from every shoot in the greatest 96 THE GARDEN. [February 24, 1923 profusion, a few precocious flowers being open early in the New Year. Needless o> say, the dwarf Heaths (Erica carnea and E. darlex greatlj preferred the cool of the past summer to the scorching of the previous one ; botli were in flower at the beginning of the month and will continue in beauty for many weeks. Erica Veitchii is one of the most valuable shrubs for winter flowering that has ever been raised. From the middle of January the buds begin to open til! the entire plant is wreathed in tiny white bells, sweet with the real heather scent. It doi not take the bees long to find their way to a bush of E. Veitchii in bloom ! Grevillea rosmarinifolia is another satisfactory shrub which rarely fails to give a good account of itself ; its quaint-shaped pink flowers shew up well against the warm dark green foliage. Visitors from cold districts are always surprised to see the vigour with which the Acacias (Mimosa) flourish in the open in the south-west. They dislike exposure to bitter winds far more than severe frosts, but in a reasonably sheltered situation they go ahead very rapidly. A seedling Acacia falcata only three years old is now about 8ft. high in spite of having had its main shoot broken by snow last April. It began to flower early in January, but this species appears to take several years as a rule before it flowers really profusely. Fortunately, the absence of frost encouraged Lithospermum rosmarinifolium to bedeck itself with a rich crop of glorious blue flowers. It began to flower in November, and apparently means to carry on till the spring. Daffodils were represented in January by the ever-welcome Hoop Petticoat varieties, and these were accompanied in the last few days of the month by Narcissus minimus, a most perfect little flower. The Scilly White Polyanthus Narcissi missed their usual summer's baking, and consequently came up very late and with poor promise of bloom. They grow alongside the clumps of Iris unguicularis under a warm wall, and have hitherto revelled in the position. Golden Spur Daffodils were shewing colour in the open border by the end of January, and most other varieties were coming on rapidly. The Riviera variety of that pestilential weed, the Lesser Celandine, is quite a good plant which does not wander unduly, and opened the first of its very large golden flowers in January. Though very distinct for gardening purposes, it is probably only a large variety of our familiar Ranunculus Ficaria. Saxifraga Elizabeths; was the first of its race to greet the New Year, but by the end of the month it was joined by the crimson-purple S. op; folia, one of the best of British natives grown in rock gardens. It is an extremely variable plant, as one might expect from its very extensive range, which includes the High Alps and sea-level at Spitzbergcn. Some forms seem much more amenable to cultivation than others. The first flowers of the handsome S. (Megasea) ligulata conceal themselves among the large leathery leaves, but before January had passed others were peeping out well above the sheltering foliage. That cheerful little annual Ionopsidium acaule has flowered without ceasing all winter and brightens up the soil in front of a colony of the stately green-flowered Corsican Hellebore. The rosy-hued Helleborus olympicus and the white purple-spotted H. guttatus rushed into full bloom by the third week of January, before the true Christmas Roses were over. Divided plants ol these Hellebores always take some time to re- establish themselves, but seedlings are very easily raised (self-sown plants often appear), and in two or three years make fine healthy free-flowering plants. Moreover, there is always the chance of some good variation occurring among the seedlings. Some of the larger Spurges look well planted among Hellebores, whose poisonous properties they also possess. A beautiful glaucous species, which is probably Euphorbia Characias, flowered throughout the month, and its tall stems of quaintly formed green and brown flowers were very decorative. All these evergreen Spurges are far too seldom seen outside botanic gardens, for though not showy, they all possess considerable beaut v of form. There were not many berries left in the garden by the New Year, but Pyracantha angustifolia remained one of the gayest features of the month with its branches wreathed in masses of orange berries. The large branching inflorescence of Cordyline australis also was full of interest, with its profuse crop of tiny white berries containing the glossy black seeds. As birds had begun to take them, the inflorescence was cut and the berries saved for sowing. West Porlock. N. G Hadden A BIG SHOW AT WESTMINSTER THERE was a great increase as regards bulk in the exhibits at the R.H.S. Hall, Vincent Square, on February 13 last and a quite corresponding increase in the attendance. During the early part ol the afternoon the attendance was so great that difficulty was experienced in viewing the exhibits. While there were more flowers than might have been expected at a mid-February meeting, it must be confessed that there was a deal of repetition and not all exhibits were of first-class quality. That the Floral Committee shared this opinion was evident from the comparatively few awards they recom- mended. The greatest increase was in alpines and it is a moot point whether or not it is wise to force these little plants into premature flowering as is so often done nowadays. The outstanding floral exhibit was the magnificent collection of greenhouse Cyclamens arranged by Messrs. Sutton and Sons, and it is no exaggeration VIVID ORANGE AND SCARLET TRUSSES OF RHODODENDRON NE PLUS U to say that it was the finest display of these plants seen at the R.H.S. meetings. We should not like to say definitely how many plants this monster collection contained, but the quality was so high that there was not one second-rate plant among the several hundreds. The massed plants of such as the glowing Salmon Scarlet, the giant Silver- leaved Salmon, the deep crimson Vulcan and Giant White, to name only a few of the many distinct varieties, made a memorable display, while the crested flowers of Mrs. Buckston intrigued many visitors. On a table space near, by Messr?. Sutton and Son's set out a smaller exhibit of Primula sinensis and stellata varieties and these shewed again similar high-class strains and expert cultivation. The R.H.S. gold medal has never been more worthily awarded than on the present occasion. A meritorious collection of greenhouse Cyclamens was sent from the gardens of Mr. E. Wormald, Sheepwell House, Potters Bar, and at any other tine these would have excited even greater envy and admiration than they received. Azaleas, both the ever- green indica and the de- ciduous varieties were shewn as excellent plant > by various exhibitors, but it was the warm, glowing colours of the mollis- sinensis varieties shewn by Messrs. R. and G. Cuth hert that excited most attention. Among their Azaleas Messrs. L. K. Russell, Limited, had various forced hardy shrubs, particularly 1'runus triloba. Other useful forced shrubs at the Show were the many plants of the fragrant Viburnum Carlesii, in a ection from Messrs. Wallace and Co.. who had well flowered example - E Prunus triloba and again shewed pans of in- teresting and beautiful is -pel ies. A goodly bush of the slow-growing but long- flowering Andromeda flori- bunda was noted in an exhibit by Messrs. J. Cheal and Sons. The first flowers on the erect pani- cles of this American shrub will often be open at Christmas and it will be the end of March before THE LTRA. GREENHOUSE February 24, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 97 THE SOFT MAUVE PRIMULA CALCIPHILA. the last have discoloured and fallen. The flowers last well and will open in a cut state. Bright shrub colour was to be seen in the berries of the dwarf plants of Skimmia japonica shewn by Mr. G. G. Whitelegg, who also had some beautiful silvery rosettes of Saxifraga longifolia. Lady Aberconway sent from her North Wales garden trusses of early Rhododendrons. In the centre there was a stand of R. Nobleanum shewing interesting variation from the type. Silberhad's Early Pink is somewhat like a smaller, more waved Gloria Mundi, while the larger trusses of R. sutchuenense were a delicately beautiful pale pink. As flowering plants the best alpines were the pots and pans staged by Mr. Mark Fenwick. There were a great many pans of Saxifraga Bur- seaana gloria and several admirably flowered ones of the dainty pink S. Irvingii. In the annexe Messrs. R. Tucker and Sons had a great variety of alpines in small pots. Primula Julise bore flowers of intense colouring. Blue Primroses of great merit were shown by Messrs. Blackmore and Langdon. Soldanella alpina was included by Messrs. Maxwell and Beale in their collection, which also contained some plants in flower of the Mesembryanthemum turbinatum roseum and album, which one sees growing so luxuriantly in such places as the seashores of Cornwall and the Isle of Wight. The dainty little Bellis sylvestris w-as included in several collections of alpines, and the crimson flow-ers made bright patches of colour. The Narcissus Committee met for the first time this year but did not have any novelty of merit before it. Messrs. R. H. Bath, Limited, exhibited a very creditable collection of Tulips and Daffodils growing in bowls of fibre. As a background to their alpines Messrs. Barr and Sons arranged some very good pots of Narcissi and Hyacinths and Messrs. Carter and Co., Limited, had one of their artistic displays of similar bulbs, with Primulas. A large exhibit of Citruses, growing on bushes in pots and as gathered fruits, was somewhat an unusual feature and these were brought by Messrs. T. Rivers and Son. The bush of Citron of Paradise, which bore twenty large fruits, was said to be the best ever seen at a show. A small but particularly good collection of Potato tubers was made by Messrs. Dobbie, and in this the purple eyes of Katie Glover and Di Vernon seemed to fascinate many visitors. NEW AND RARE PLANTS. Primula calciphila. — This is a daintily beau- tiful greenhouse plant from the cliffs of Ichang, West China. In general appearance it is a flattish, very free-flowering species of P. stellata type, with smallish, pale green leaves somewhat similar to those of the old double white Primula. The fact, however, that it consistently refuses to hybridise with any of the Primula sinensis types, although when selfed it seeds freely, disposes of the suggestion that this is the true Primula sinensis. The flowers are stellate with well rounded petals and rather more than an inch across. They are of delicate pale mauve in colour and have a small pale lemon eye. Award of merit to the Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Prunus Conradinae. — In general characteristics the (lowering branches of this small tree suggest a more graceful and larger flowered Prunus Pissardi, but it is one of Wilson's introductions from Western China. Like the P. cerasifera varieties the young leaves of this tree are purplish and become reddish- purple in the autumn. The specimen now flowering in the Prunus collection at Kew is very beautiful with the graceful branches wreathed with the palest blush flowers. So far as is known the tree has not fruited in cultivation. Award of merit to the Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Rhododendron Ne Plus Ultra. — The magnificent plant of this hybrid greenhouse Rhododendron was decidedly the feature of the Show and we doubt whether finer trusses of this type have ever before been seen at any exhibition. On the entry card it was stated to be a cross between R. javanicum and R. jasminiflorum, but its appearance gives no suggestion of the latter parentage, and in his book on " Rhododendrons and Azaleas," " Present Day Gardening Series," W. Watson, writing with an authoritative knowledge of his subject, states that R. Ne Plus Ultra is a cross between R. javanicum and R. Duchess of Edinburgh, the latter being a hybrid between R. Lobbii and R. Brookeanum. The vivid, glowing, rich orange-scarlet flowers, seemed to vibrate with glorious colour. First- class certificate to Lieutenant-Colonel Sir George Holford. Dendrobium Gatton Monarch var. F. J. Han- bury. — This beautiful Dendrobe may be termed a glorified D. nobile, which has a definite white band around its rich, velvety, purple throat. First-class certificate to Mr. F. J. Hanbury. Odontioda Baroness Schroder. — A magnificent variety bearing large perfectly formed crimson- claret flowers, lightly edged with white. The lip is elegantly waved, well margined with white and lightly spangled with gold on the crest. First- class certificate to Messrs. Charlesworth and Co. Odontoglossum Purple Queen. — This is a very uncommon flower. The general colour impression is blue-violet tinting on a brownish ground and the flowers have narrow white edges, while the base of the lip is wholly white. Award of merit to Mr. J. J. Bolton. AN ADMIRABLE BLUSH-COLOURED ORNAMENTAL PLUM, PRUNUS CONRADIN.T. 98 THE GARDEN. [February 24, 1923. WINTER-FLOWERING BEGONIAS The Gloire de Lorraine Group. SOME years ago Gloire de Lorraine was the winter-flowering Begonia ; to-day it is only a type — one of many — and it is quite possible to have as rich and varied a display of colour during winter as the tuberous varieties provide in summer. Nor are we confined to singles ; superb double flowers in ilit, crimson, salmon, rose, orange, apricot, ■ tc, are all plentiful. Many of these produce individual flowers 2ins. to .sins, across, but always with the Lorraine habit, building themselves up into perfect pyramids of loveliness that must be seen to be appreciated or even imagined. This brings us to a consideration of the methods of propagation and the cultural treatment of the plants so obtained. After flowering, a period of rest is imperative and to this end the plants should be cut back somewhat and kept only just moist at the roots. Take care that they are kept in a good light in a temperature between 60° and 700 and a large number of short, sturdy little basal shoots will soon begin to develop. These should be in the best possible condition for our purpose early in April and, from then onwards right up to August, a succession of cuttings will be obtainable that will give a continuity of flowering plants right through winter and early spring. The early-rooted cuttings will, naturally, give the strongest, finest and largest plants, those struck later, however, being especially useful for smaller specimens. Such are very suitable for indoor decoration. Never attempt to keep them within doors too long, however, or this will result in the buds dropping and the early ruination of the plants. Having prepared your plants and obtained a good supply of short-jointed, stocky shoots about 3ins. in length, these should be taken off from the base of the plants, severing each with a very sharp knife just beneath a joint. The tissue is very succulent and the sharp knife is very important or the stem is readily bruised and then decay sets in. Crock the pots or pans carefully in which the cuttings are to be inserted so that there is no question as to efficient drainage, and cover the crocks with a layer of moss before any soil is put in ; this prevents the finer particles of earth from washing down into the drainage and choking it when w-atering. A fine soil is best, one composed of two parts sifted loam to one each of leaf-mould and silver sand being excellent. Mix this well and allow half a dozen cuttings to each 5 -inch pot. The lower leaves should be removed and the soil made quite firm round each, each pot being after- wards lightly watered and plunged in a propagating frame with gentle bottom heat. Keep rather close for a time, taking care to water moderately and constantly remove all leaves that shew signs of decay. As roots form, a little air should be given and, as they become accustomed to this, the pots should be withdrawn from the propagator and stood in a cooler temperature of 550 to 650. Dew them constantly overhead and shade from bright sunshine. These winter-flowering Begonias are specially addicted to premature flowering and the only wax- to avoid this is by selecting strong basal shoots from which to form the cuttings, and to grow them in a moist atmosphere so as to promote steady and continuous growth. Dew them overhead through a fine rose with tepid water several times a day and, as soon as strong enough, pot off singly. For this potting, the soil need not be so fine, while a considerable reduction in the quantity of sand in.i'i be made. Let the soil be fairly firm, but not hard, maintain a temperature of 55* to 6o° at night, with a rise of 50 to 10° by day, and continue light shading and syringing as before. Never allow the young plants to stand still and, directly the first pots are filled with roots, transfer them to a larger sire and repeat this as they become filled with roots. For the second and all subsequent pottings, the following compost should be employed. Fibrous loam two parts, peat one part, with half a part each of coarse silver sand, leaf-mould and dry cow manure. with a generous dusting of bonfire ashes. Turn these together again and again, so that everything is really well mixed and, after potting, place a neat green stake at the centre of each pot so that the growths can be lightly looped up to this as they advance. If the plants fail to branch freely enough stop the points once or twice so as to encourage side growths and, as these in turn become long enough, loop them up to the central support. Do not shade too heavily during summer ; this is only necessary when the sun is bright and the mori light the plants receive the shorter and sturdier the growth will be. Air must be admitted freely, though anything like draught should be strictly avoided. Watch the atmosphere ; this must never become too dry, and keep the temperature steady at 55° by night rising to about 65° by day. Once the flowering pots are well filled with roots and buds are commencing to form, do not omit ti feed regularly and generously with weak liquid manures ; this makes all the difference to both size and depth of colouring in the blooms. Tropica. NOTES OF THE WEEK NEXT week's issue of The Garden will be a special Spring Planting Number, which it is hoped will prove of more than usual interest. Bulbs for spring planting — Lilies and Gladioli — will receive special attention ; but shrubs and herbaceous plants will also come under review. The Royal Horticultural Society. — The Annual General Meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society has come and gone. As expected, the criticisms w$ AGAPANTHUS MOOREANUS, HARDIEST OF LILIES," AT GRAVETYE. of the condition of the Wisley Gardens and of the Council's policy as regards Wisley have borne fruit. An improvement is promised, and Fellows must possess their souls in patience awhile and hope that expectations will be reaUsed. Is it too much to hope that the Council will reconsider its attitude with regard to the Wisley trials ? We are perfectly aware that they have made no promise in this direction, but now that Wisley is under discussion it would be a good opportunity to do so. It is very easy for the management of a big society such as this to get out of touch with the feeling of the rank and file, whose opportunity for expounding their views at the annual meeting is small. Not all Fellows, we imagine, are in the habit of ad- dressing public meetings, and Lord Lambourne is perhaps too capable a Chairman in this respect, for, if courteous, he is certainly not helpful to those who wish to lay their views before him and the meeting. The financial results for the past year, as disclosed in the Annual Report, are certainly ex- cellent, and everyone concerned, from the President and Treasurer downwards is to be congratu- lated upon the extraordinarily strong financial position of the Society. The Hardiest African Lily. — The picture shews a clump of Aga- panthus umbellatus var. Mooreanus at Gravetye. This plant is largely cultivated there and is exceedingly effective when massed, though a black and white picture of the plant growing in quantity is not an interesting one. The plant is very much hardier than the type species ; indeed, it would probably prove hardy in almost every dis- trict and is very distinct in every way. The blossoms are similar in colour, but the flower stems are more slender and graceful and the foliage is much shorter and less imposing. This, naturally, de- tracts from it as a foliage plant, but it gives added character and dignity to the flowers. LTnlike the type plant, the variety Mooreanus is deciduous. This is a good tinif- t 1 transplant it. ' AFRICAN February 24, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 99 CORRESPONDENCE OUTDOOR WINTER GARDENS. AS the winter is longer than the summer, so, in some respects, is the winter garden more important than the summer garden. One does so enjoy flowers at this time of the year and it will probably be two months before the spring gardei, will be enjoyable. I certainly get great pleasure sitting in my winter garden, which, after all, is only about ^r,lt. square, so that there is nothing very costly in cultivating such a little piece of ground. There are so many plants which flower in the winter that there is no trouble in furnishing a winter garden. I counted over thirty different kinds of flowers on February .(. On the walls Cornus mascula, Garrya elliptica, Winter Jasmine and Laurustinus are all in full bloom. Then there are two beds of Rhododendron praecox, with Erica carnea below. Other beds have Lent Lilies, Blue-eyed Mary and Violas, yellow, white and lavender Crocuses, Snowdrops and lots of Iris reticulata in two colours to help to make the garden bright ; but what troubles me is why do people so seldom indulge in a winter garden. — Thackeray Turner, W es'.brook, Godalming. IRIS RETICULATA. '"TWELVE bulbs of Iris reticulata planted in fibre in a bowl in November and grown in a cold greenhouse are now coming into flower. Another bulb in the open border left from last year is in full flower to-day (Feb. 9) and rather taller than those in the house. — L. D., Wells, Somerset. and I have tried to solve this problem by planting them with a large stone at their backs, so to speak, against which I place convex pieces of glass (I find broken cloches or crystal fruit dishes the my runners shall come from one year old plants which have fruited and his from one year old plants which have not fruited. Runners from the last named will run a little bigger, but they will not give superior results. I, too, will ask readers to try both systems and report results. If Mr. Engleheart used turves he would not find the necessity to SOME EARLY SPRING FLOWERS. (~)N page 60 in The Garden of February 3 I notice that Mr. Chapman mentions having Iris reticulata in bloom under glass on January 16. My first blooms out of doors opened on January 24, and the plants were soon in full bloom. Narcissus minimus was out on January 29. It is on a rather dry little mound at the base of an Oak tree. Narcissus cyclamineus opened on January 31. Both varieties were also in bloom in a cool house, but only a few days ahead of the outdoor bulbs. The mild weather accounts for this, I suppose. I do not know when these two varieties are supposed to bloom. The extraordinary warmth and bright sun on February 3, 4 and 5 has brought everything on far too quickly, but they have had a check. Here Prunus Mume is opening its first flowers, Prunus Pissardi breaking into flower and foliage, Leptospermum Boscaweni in bloom and many other shrubs are all shewing buds far too forward. I only hope they will be kept back until they can break and bloom safely. — G. H. Dalrymple, Hartley, Hants. PRIMULA WLNTERI OUTDOORS. TLJAVING read with much interest the note on Primula Winteri in the issue of The Garden of February 10, I think that some of your readers might like to know that I have grown it out of doors for the last nine or ten years here, and have now some thirteen plants either in bloom or with buds just opening. I find they are very hardy as regards cold, and passed unhurt through the terrible spring of 191 7, when the mercury fell to 4° on March 9. Also they seem to enjoy a moist root-run at all seasons and as much rain as they can get between May and October. Indeed the plants suffered much from the dry summers of 1919 and 1921 and had fewer blooms in the follow- ing springs. But from the time the white winter leaves begin to shew — generally about October 1 — they must be kept as dry as possible overhead, SOFT LAVENDER BLOSSOMS OF PRIMULA WINTERI. most useful). This may somewhat disfigure the rock garden ; but, after all, it is easy to remove the glasses on fine dry days or when one expects a visitor to be taken round the rock garden ! My plants are mostly on a northern slope with high Rhododendrons behind them, so they get very little sunshine but seem to thrive without it. — H. M. B., Berwickshire. EARLY GROWTH. T THOUGHT you would be interested to hear of the following plants, etc., which are a fortnight to a month early even for this garden, on the borders of Devon and Somerset : Three varieties of Eremuri, and Liliums Henryi, testa- ceum, tigrinum F. giganteum are 3ms. to 4ms. above ground. Crown Imperials, Ribes, Solanum crispum and many Daffodils are in bud or just out, together with, of course, Prunus Pissardi ; also scarlet Anemone and the other ordinary sorts, and Rhododendron precox. My newly planted Chinese shrubs, such as Staphylea colchica and Halesia tetraptera have burst their buds ! One wonders if they will ever survive the late frosts as they will be so far on. — F. L. P. Baker, Crewkeme, Somerset. STRAWBERRIES AND ASPARAGUS. TVTR- ENGLEHEART (page 47) is a difficult man to convince that his own views and opinions are not the best — he is satisfied that they are and nothing further, therefore, remains to be said or written. My personal experience reaches the half century and I hold staunchly to what I wrote, the substance of which was that runners of equal excellence and earliness can be secured from one year old fruiting plants as from maidens. Mr. Engleheart would, perhaps, differentiate between one year old plants and maidens, but there is no difference in age — the essential difference is that move the plants to hard grcund; they would remain in situ until the actual moment for planting. The sound objection to small pots lies in the fact that, under forced delay in planting out, the roots mat hard round the porous sides and do not take immediately to the new soil as they do when moved at the crucial moment or from turves, since there is no matting in the latter case. I did not doubt the ease or the necessity of lifting Daffodil bulbs, but simply stated that it was no more " natural " than lifting Asparagus roots and obviously that is a fact since Nature would lift only by earthquakes — by lifting and planting we improve upon Nature. It is a fallacy to suppose that Asparagus is difficult to move. It presents no more difficulties in the process than most other plants, provided that its fleshy roots are not allowed to become dry and shrivelled by exposure to the air. Unless there is imperative need for haste I always advise sowing for Asparagus and my sole reason is that it is cheaper. — W. H. Lodge. PLANTS FOR ABROAD. VOU recently printed a letter from M. Correvon about the difficulty of importing plants from England, and the same difficulty exists in Italy, due to a misapprehension on the part of the British P.O. authorities. They ask for an Italian permit for importation before posting plants, and the Italian Ministry of Agriculture will not give this permit because it is not required ! I have twice had Roses from Mr. Easlea and Carnations from Mr. Douglas by parcel post with no trouble (perhaps their post offices were in blessed ignorance of this ruling), but Messrs. AUwood could send me nothing because their local P.O. would not allow the parcel to leave without the Italian permit. It would seem in the interest of British growers to clear up this difficulty with their General P.O., and I hope your paper can help. — A Roman Subscriber. 100 THE GARDEN. [February 24, 1923. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Celery. -If an early autumn supply is needed, a small sowing of a white variety should be made at once. Sow the seeds thinly in pans of light soil, place them in a warm, moist house, and when germination is apparent keep the young plants near the roof glass to prevent them being drawn. When the seedlings are large enough, prick them off in boxes of good soil, and when they are well established gradually harden them off. Turnips. — On a warm border a few lines of Turnip seed mav be sown, selecting a white variety, such as Snowball. The drills should be ift. apart, and the thinning of the seedlings ought to be done as early as possible. This is just a chance crop, larger sowings being made a few weeks later. Cauliflowers. — Early Cauliflowers are often in demand, so it will be advisable to make a small sowing of First Crop or Magnum Bonuin directly the ground is suitable. Sow the seeds thinly and transfer the young plants to their permanent quarters when they have made three or four leaves. Cauliflowers enjoy a generous soil, and it should be well dug and liberally manured a few weeks before it is needed. Protect the seed-beds from birds if necessary. An occasional sprinkling of soot will hold slugs in check until tjie plants become too large for these marauders. Globe Artichokes. — If these plants have been protected with leaves or straw Utter, the material should now be removed or dug in between the rows. New beds can be made from side shoots or suckers, planting them in lines 5ft. apart and half that distance between the plants. The Flower Garden. Delphiniums. — These delightful perennial plants are readily raised from seeds, and I can recom- mend this method of propagation. A large percentage of seedlings will produce flowers quite up to or above the average. Seeds should now be sown in the open ground in drills ift. apart, just covering the seeds with fine soil. Slugs are often the cause of failure with these plants, so it is advisable to give the seed-bed a generous sprink- ling of soot. When the young plants are large enough, transfer to an open piece of ground where it is intended for them to bloom. Named varieties mav be increased by cuttings directly the new- shoots are large enough for removal from the parent plant. They will form roots if placed in a cold frame. A number of " annual " varieties are in commerce, and they ought to be borne in mind, because they bloom freely towards the end of summer. Fruit Under Glass. Figs are often grown under glass, and the trees can be planted out in a border or grown in pots or tubs, the latter method being often adopted, as the Fig thrives best in a somewhat restricted root-run. The growths of trees planted out should be trained over the trellis, which ought to be about 2ft. from the roof glass, and in tying in the shoots, overcrowding must be avoided. Figs will bear at least two crops during the year, the most important being the one that is produced on the current year's growth. Pot trees may be placed outside until there is space in the orchard- house, and any trees brought in during March or April will produce a later crop. The repotting should have been done, so when growth is well started the roots may be fed with liquid manure, and after being brought inside they must not suffer from the lack of moisture at the base. Seldom is a house devoted solely to Figs, but success can be attained by growing them with other fruits and affording them similar treatment. When the new growths are 51ns. or 6ins. in length, pinch nut the centres to assist in the formation of fruits. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Protection of Blossom. — Some material should be in readiness for protecting the bloom of such trees as Peaches, Nectarines and Apricots on frosty nights. Light shading material or canvas is excellent, but care must be taken to prevent it flapping against the flowers during the night, and if poles are placed at intervals in front of the trees less injury is likely to accrue. Fish netting of double thickness can also be recommended, but whatever is employed it ought to be removed duectlv the temperature rises above freezing point. T. W. Bki . irdener to W. K. Lysaght, Esq.), Castlcford, Chepstow, Gloucesters) 1 FOR NORTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Shallots are very useful, especially in gardens \vhich are much troubled with the onion fly. They should be planted as soon as the state of the ground will permit. The ground having been dug, or forked over, it should be raked smooth, the line should then be stretched and the Shallots planted along the line nins. apart, the bulbs being pressed into the soil half their depth. A foot should be allowed between the lines. Horseradish. — If not already attended to, a fresh plantation should be made. Well enriched and deeply wrought soil is necessary for the pro- duction of strong thongs. Plant pieces ift. apart and lift, between the lines. Lettuces. — Where an early sowing was made in gentle heat, the seedlings should be pricked off into boxes of moderately rich soil as soon as they are large enough to handle. Prick out at about 4ins. apart as" they should be allowed fully to develop in the boxes. Sea Kale. — Lift the remainder of the crop and select the strongest crowns for forcing. Sufficient secondary crowns should then be planted when weather permits for next season's supply. Plant in rows 2ft. apart, allowing i8ins. between the plants in the row. Sea Kale requires a rich soil with a little salt in it. Mustard and Cress. — It will still be necessary to make weekly sowings indoors as the plants do little good in the open before April and in any case are always more tender and succulent when grown quickly in a little heat. The Hardy Fruit Garden. Strawberries. — Dig between the lines of old plantations and then apply a top-dressing of half-decayed farmyard manure. The latter supplies nutriment to the plants and conserves moisture during the summer. Fruit Under Glass. Vines. — Both in the early and later houses tin temperature should be gradually raised, i° a week being sufficient. Attend carefully to ventilation, avoiding cold draughts however. Utilise solar heat as far as possible. Damp the pathways in the morning, and in the afternoon when shutting up the houses. It is a mistake to use the syringe too freely, especially during wet or dull weather. If air roi it- appear it is a sure sign that too much moisture is being applied. The Orchard House. — As the more precocious trees come into flower they should be assisted in the matter of pollination by being sharply tapped some- time during the forenoon. Damp the pathways twice a day in bright clear weather, but in dull or wet weather the afternoon damping will be sufficient ; the aim should be to maintain a buoyant atmosphere without admitting cold draughts. Late Tomatoes. — A sowing should now be made for cultivation in frames or other cool structures. In order to ensure vigorous plants from the start the seeds should be sown singly, at a distance of about an inch apart. A temperature ranging from 5s : to 6o° will be suitable for them. The Flower Garden. Early Chrysanthemums. — Cuttings of these will now be plentiful, so sufficient should be taken and inserted for next season's display. There are two methods of preparing the stock, the first is to insert the cuttings rather thickly in pots, s-in. pots being a suitable size. When rooted the cuttings are potted off singly in 3-in. pots and are gradually hardened off preparatory to planting. The second method, which entails less labour and produces quite satisfactory results, is as follows. Prepare a sufficient number of propagating boxes by placing a good layer of fibrous loam in the bottom and filling them up firmly with a rather sandy compost. Then, having prepared the cuttings, insert them at 2ins. or 2jins. apart, and when rooted harden them oft gradually and plant out direct from the boxes. Geraniums. — The hey-day of their popularity i- past, but Paul Crampel and even Henry Jacoby still have their admirers. They should now be potted from the propagating boxes into ;,;in. pots and accommodated in a vinery that has been started. Chas. Comfort. Formerly Head-gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains, Midlothian. GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Luculia gratissima is a beautiful plaut for the greenhouse or conservatory, especially if it can be planted out in a well drained bed or border. In fact, this plant is never long happy under pot cultivation. It produces its large trusses of fragrant pink flowers during the autumn and winter months. During February it should be pruned back hard and kept rather dry at the root until it breaks into fresh growth, which it will soon do if the plants are sprayed several times each day during bright weather. This plant is very subject to attacks of begonia mite, which, however, can be prevented by the use of a sulphur vaporiser. This has always, and not without reason, been considered a difficult plant to propagate. Cuttings should be made from the young growth when it is some 3ms. to 41ns. in length, and will root either from nodal or inter- nodal cuttings. They should be inserted singly in thumb pots in light sandy soil, plunging the pots in a close propagating case with slight bottom heat at command. One of the chief factors of success is never to allow the cuttings to flag. L. Pinceiana, the only other species, has white flowers, but it is not so generally cultivated as L. gratissima. Daphne odora (more generally known as D- indica), on account of its delicious fragrance is always a great favourite, but is by no means an easy plant to cultivate successfully, especially in pots, and is generally seen at its best when planted out in a well drained border in the conservatory. The trade growers usually graft this plant on stocks of a stronger-growing species. The plant, however, is quite easily propagated by means of cuttings taken from healthy plants, using medium-sized shoots about 3ms. in length. They are best inserted singly in small pots in a compost of sandy loam and peat, plunging the pots in a close case with slight bottom heat. This plant requires' free drainage and careful watering at all times. Maurandias. — There are several species of Maurandias which are very useful as climbing plants for furnishing wires and rafters in the greenhouse during the summer months. They are all easily raised from seed sown at this time, and as they will flower the same season it is just as well to treat them as annuals. Their cultivation presents no difficulty as they grow quite well in any ordinary potting compost, and they may be grown in pots or planted out in beds or borders in the conservatory. The principal species are M. atro- sanguinea, M. Barclayana, M. erubescens, M. scandens (syn. Lophdspermum scandens) and M. semperflorens. M. Purpusii has a perennial root stock which may be stored dry during the winter. This species is not a climber like the others, but makes slender shoots about 2ft. in length, which require to be supported by neat stakes. Ipomoea rubro-ccerulea is another annual climber which should be more generally grown for the summer decoration of the greenhouse, as its won- derful blue flowers attract much attention. It is easily raised from seed sown at this time and again later on in the season to give a succession of plants. This plant requires rather careful cultivation, care in watering being essential; it is also subject to attacks of red spider, which should be prevented or kept in check by the use of the syringe. The plants should flower well in 6in. pots and may be neatly trained round supports or allowed to run up strings or wires under the roof glass. They will also do well if they can be planted out in well drained beds or borders where they can get plenty of light. In the south this plant sometimes thrives when planted outdoors in warm, light soil against a south wall. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. J. Courts. Greenhouse Painting & Glazing "VITROLITE" SUPERIOR TO WHITE LEAD. PEICE 18/6 Per Gall. CANS EXTEA. ' c PLASTINE > > THE IMPERISHABLE PUTTY. PRICE 32/- Per Cwt. KEGS EXTRA. Tib. TINS 4/3 EACH. 14 lb. TINS 5,6 EACH. Post Free. Cair a>,v Extr,j. WALTER CARSON & SONS, GROVE WORKS, BATTERSEA, S.W.II TELEPHONE NO. :— BATTERSEA, 1630 (2 lines). February 24, 1923.] THE GARDEN. v. SPECIAL OFFER. SWEET PEAS. Coll. 1- — 15 Best Exhibition vars. Coll. 2 — 6 Choice „ „ GLADIOLI. Coll. 1 — 5 each 5 new varieties 12 seeds 12 seeds 4/- 1/3 4,6 4/3 4/- 12,6 „ 3—5 „ 5 „ „ 6—5 „ 20 „ „ ... TOMATO. (Elsom's FUlbasket) pckts 1/- A- 2/6 PEAS. Elsom's Sphinx, the wonder Pea. height 2ft., enormous cropper, delicious flavour, early. 2/3 pint, post free. SEND FOR NEW LIST POST FREE. GEORGE ELSOM (Dept. "F") Seed & Bulb Grower, SPALDING SPECIAL OFFER. Choice Plants for present planning : — 12 Aubrietias in 12 varieties - • - 9- 12 Dianthus in 12 varieties - - - Sz- 12 Saxifrages in 12 varieties - - 9- 12 Alpines for dry walls in 12 vars. - 9/, to 15 - 1 2 Plants for paved walks in 1 2 vars. 7/6 to 1 0/6 12 Michaelmas Daisies in 12 new vars. ■ 18- 12 Veronicas, shrubby, in 12 varieties - 1 2 - All the above collections sent per return carriage paid. PULHAM & SON, Alpine Nurseries. BISHOPS STORTFORD. Winners of the Graphic Cup for best Rock Garden, Chelsea Show, 1922. CAULIFLOWER "MAY QUEEN." The fastest growing, quickest heading variety in existence. Planted in March, large white heads may he cut during May and June. Autumn-sown plants, 3/6 per 100; 500 for 16/-; per 1,000, 30/-. Carriage paid, with Cultural Hints. Seed, to sow for succession, 1 /6 and 2, 6 per packet. DANIELS & SON, Depi. G. Wymondham, Norfolk. Choice Chrysanthemums Our Novelty List for 1923 is now ready, also General Catalogue con- taining the very best varieties in each section, and selected Per- petual Flowering Carnations. Write to-day. Sent free front KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX, and at SAWBR1DGEWORTH, HERTS, BEAUTIFUL VELVETY LAWNS That is how they are often described in novels, but how seldom do they come up to the ideal? Instead of being " velvety " they are often brown or patchy and full of weeds. What is the remedy for poor lawns ? Many things contribute, such as mowing, rolling and weeding, but the most important point is to regularly manure your lawn with a suitable Grass Manure, and the very best preparation for the purpose is PEARSON'S ANTI-GLOVER MANURE which will discourage the growth of clover and weeds and will encourage the finer grasses. SEND FOR PRICES AND BOOKLET ON THE UPKEEP OF LAWNS AND PUTTING GREENS. J. R. Pearson & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. ESTABLISHED 1782. The Culture of Chrysanthemums By H. WELLS. Freely Illustrated. Paper Covers, 2/6 net ; Cloth, 3/6 net ; By post 4d. extra. Published at the Offices of "Country Life," Ltd. 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2. FROM ONE GARDEN LOVER TO ANOTHER GARDEN SUPPLIES LTD. (Boundary Chemical Co.) CRANMER ST. LIVERPOOL Solicit Ijour Enquiries WHEN YOU WANT A GOOD THING FOR YOUR GARDEN In Roses, Bulbs, Shrubs, Plants, Seeds, Fruit Trees, Manures, Weed or Pest Killers, Lawn Seed, Lawn Improvers, &c. /*SATISFACTIOlN GUARANTEED OR MONEY RETURNED Catalogue Post Free Write us Now ENGLISH NICOTINE. NICOTINE INSECTICIDES are by far the most efficient for destroying insects infesting plants and fruit trees, and perfect culture cannot be attained without the judicious use of Nicotine. Be sure the Nicotine Insecticide employed is Campbell's, made in their own English works, and guaranteed purest and best. CAMPBELL'S ENGLISH NICOTINE, 95-98 per cent, guaranteed, price on application. CAMPBELL'S NICO SOAP (Nicotine Soap). The best Potash Soft Soap, plus l\ per cent. Nicotine, unrivalled for syringing or spraying. Prices — Jib., 21- ; lib., 4/- ; iolb., 32/-. CAMPBELL'S NICOTINE VAPORISING COMPOUND. Nicotine content, 50 per cent. Prices — ioz., 1/6; 40Z., 3/9; 8oz., 7/6; i pint, 9/-; 1 pint, 17/6; \ gallon, 61/-. CAMPBELL'S NICOTINE FUMIGATING ROLLS, very simple and effective. In four sizes, for 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 3,000 cubic feet. Prices — 7d., 10d., 1/6 and 2/- each. CAMPBELL'S PATENT SULPHUR VAPORISER. The best method of exterminating Mildew from plants in glasshouses. In two sizes, for 5,000 and 10,000 cubic feet. Prices — 18/- and 20/- each. CAMPBELL'S CAUSTIC ALKALI for the winter washing of dormant in and outdoor fruit trees. Prices— lib., 1/- ; sib., 4/- ; iolb., 7/6. CAMPBELL'S LEMON OIL and WEEDKILLER, prices and particulars on application. Obtainable from Setdsmen or direct from the Manufacturer , J. D. CAMPBELL, Nicotine Manufacturer, LUND STREET. CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER. I THOMAS GREEN & SON, Ltd.. Sm! infield Ironworks. Leeds, and New Surrey Works. South wark Street, London, S.E.I. THE GARDEN. [February 24, 1923. The Twin Flower.— The Twin Flow, northern forests, I innsea borealis, is the delight of all who can please its capricious nature and the despair of all to whom it will offer no response. Yet it is not as difficult a plant as many alpines. What it chiefly needs is a cool root-hold in a sweet old vegetable mould and, if possible, a half- buried and mossy decayed stump over which it can send its prostrate trailing growths which root as they proceed. A half-shaded or quite sunless spot appears to suit this plant best, although when established it will often do well in full sun. Frequent sprayings during the first summer, with shelter from parching winds, are undoubtedly helpful. The two flowers, which are borne on short, erect stems at intervals along the creeping branches, are a delicate rose pink and indescrib- ablv dainty. L. americana (canadensis) has rather larger blossoms of a slightly deeper colour. This form which, by the way, is more amenable to cultivation, flourishes all through the more westerly woods of the Canadian Rockies and extends right down to the sea in British Columbia, making any moist and mossy place its home. Potentilla rupestris. — Though rare as a native, being found only on one or two limestone eleva- tions in Western Britain, this Potentilla has been brought to our rock gardens from the Alps and won a foremost place among the best of its race. From a short, woody stock it produces a bold tuft of fresh green leafage, from the centre of which the i2in. to i8in. flower-stems rise in the later summer. These bear at the tips of their many branches large, pure white, golden-centred flowers which at first glance recall those of the Grass of Parnassus. Once established in a warm and sunny, freely drained " pocket," with a lump or two of old mortar at the root, P. rupestris will carry on for many years without any attention whatsoever. P. pygmaea of catalogues appears to be none other than a miniature form of the above and a very dainty little plant it is. An Elegant Woodland Plant. — For a cool soil, or bog, with or without shade, Gillenia tri- foliata is a plant whose grace of form will win it a place among the choicest Spiraeas, to which it bears some affinity. This is a herbaceous perennial, quite hardy, growing up to about 2ft.. and making a bold mass of its three-lobed leaves and many- branched stems which terminate in the flower sprays. These latter are not showy, nor are they produced in any great abundance, but the little white stars are very refined and delicately beautiful. Potentilla nepalensis Willmottiae.— If it were only on account of its long blooming season this Potentilla would rank high among rock plants, for it is the first to come into flower in early spring, and carries on until nearly Christmas. It has. however, other claims to attention, among which is the lovely cherry red of its wide-open flowers with their eyes of jet set off by anthers which sparkle with gold dust. P. Willmottiae is, more- over, very easy to please, asking no more than a sunny spot in any free soil, and there it will prove quite hardy and. permanent. It is as neat and orderly in shape as it is beautiful, and seldom exceeds about 6ins. in height. A Good Yellow Foxglove. — There is much to be said for the yellow Foxglove, Digitalis ambigua, as a plant for the sunny or shady border, or for naturalising in the woodland garden or shrubbery. Though much lower in stature than the common native species, D. ambigua is very rigid and erect, not given to being blown over, nor does it look shabby when the bells begin to fall. The prettily tapered spikes (about i8ins.) rise from a tufty rosette of long, pointed leaves of a rich green, and smaller leaflets of the same narrow form grow upon the lower parts of the flowering stem. This species has, moreover, a perennial nature to amend it, and it will, as has been suggested, produce self-sown seedlings in any suitable situation. The flowers are a good size and much superior in colour to those of DD. lutea or leucophylla. United Horticultural Provident Society.— The Monthly Meeting of the United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society was held in the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall on Monday, February 12th, Mr. Charles H. Curtis presiding. The Chairman reported the death of the Treasurer, Mr. Thomas Winter, and votes of sympathy to the widow and daughter were passed in silence. Mr. Arthur Bedford, being appointed Treasurer, resigned his position as committeeman and Vice- Chairman, Mr. W. H. Divers being elected Vice- Chairraan pro tern. Final arrangements were made for the Annual Meeting on March 12th, at which Mr. Charles H. Curtis will preside ; members are urged to attend that evening. FORTHCOMING EVENTS. February 27. — Royal Horticultural Society's Fortnightly Meeting. Lecture at the University College, Gower Street, London, W.C.i, at 5 p.m., by Dr. W. B. Brierley, on "Soil Fungi." March 1. — Lecture at the University College, W.C.i, at 5 p.m., by Dr. W. B. Brierley, on " Soil Fungi." 35th SEASON. MRS. PYM'S FAMOUS PLANTS Orders 3 - and over Post Free or Carriage Paid, Passenger Train. 4d. extra for orders under 3'-. The following prices are all per dozen (half or quarter dozen same rate). CASH WITH ORDER. Plant now for goo J show of bloom this year, and improve every vear. Strong transplanted plants. Achillea ptarmica, double white, 3/-. Aconitum, large spikes yellow, blotched orange, 3/-. Lobelia cardinalis, tall tall blue, 6/-. AgrostemmaFIos-jovis, crimson, 3/-. Alyssum, spikes, "rich scarlet, 4/-, Lupin, Tree, yellow or white, 6/-; Gold Dust, 3/-. Alpine Pinks, brilliant colours, 3/-. Alpine polyphyllus, pink, 4- ; blue or white, 2/8. Lychnis,' new' Pinks, white or bright pink, creeping. 4 '-. Anchusa italica, Salmon Queen, 6/-. Lychnis coronaria. silvery foliae*. crimson tall, deep amethyst blue, 4/6. Anchusa Dropmore, large blue, flowers, 3 -. Malva moschata, musk scented, large, pink or 6/-. Anchusa myosotidiflora, masses of deep gentian blue, white. 4-. Monarda (Bergamot), Cambridge Scarlet, 6/-. white eye, lovely for rockery, 6,'-. Achillea, Perry's Double Myrtle, fragrant bush, white flowers, 9 -. Onopordon, White, 6.-. Achillea Kelwayi, fine crimson, and Cerise Queen, handsome Thistle, 6-. Pansies, best large-flowerinc Buenote! 6/-. Alpine Wallflowers, yellow or oranee, 1/4; bright Bismarck, Masterpiece, etc., also separate colours for bedding^ mauve, 2/-. Alyssum montanum, rare Alpine, fragrant, purple, white, lieht and dark blue, Golden Queen, red| bright yellow, summer flowering, 6/-. Antirrhinums, new yellow. 1/6. Pansy, Coquette de Poissey, lovely bedding, large -flowering, in all the new art colours, separate or mixed, mauve. 1/10. Pulmonaria (Jerusalem blue CowslipV, very rare,' strong bushy, autumn sown and transplanted, 2/8. Antirr- large two year old roots, 12 -. Papaver Oriental Queen! hinums, strong autumn sown, best mixed (not transplanted), extremely handsome, 6/-. l,i). Anthem is Kelwayi, fine golden yellow. 4/-. Anthem is Pentstemon, lovely large - flowering and scarlet. 4 -; styriaca, for rockery, silvery foliage, white flowers, 6/-. gentianoides blue shades, 3,-. Periwinkle, large blue Aquilegia, best long spurred, one year plants, 4/-; Kelway's evergreen, 4'-. Pea, Everlasting, white, pink, red. 6 -. Pinks, double and single, mixed, 3/-. coloured. 19. Potentilla, double crimson. 4-. Primulas, Aubrietia, rich purple, 2/8. Aubrietia, new large-flowering lovely hardy varieties, assorted, for rockeries, bogs, borders, etc., hybrids, 4/-. Auricula alpinus, lovely varieties, 4/6. Balm, 5/-. Pzeonies, 9 -. Phlox, separate colours. 6 -. Polyanthus, fragrant. 4/-. Brompton Stocks, one year old plants. Scarlet one year old, choice mixed, 2/6. Papaver pilosum. showy Giant and mixed, 3/-. Brompton Stocks, strong autumn sown orange-red, 3/-. Pyrethrum, Kelway's hybrids, 4-. Rose (not transplanted), 1/6. Campanulas, dwarf rockery, etc., blue Campion, deep crimson, 3/-. Sweet Rocket, 3 -. Rud- or white, 6/- ; tall, 4.'- ; pyramidalis, two year old, 6/-. Canter- beckia Newmanii superba, 6/-. Rudbeckia Golden Ball, double, bury Bells, year old, single, white, blue or mixed hybrids, 1/6; 6/-. Saponaria ocymoides, dwarf trailing, 3/-. Saxifraga, double pink, white, blue, and single pink, also cup and saucer, mossy, crimson or pink flowering, 6/-; white, 4 -. Sweet mixed colours, 3/-. Candytuft (perennial), masses of lilac or Scabious, enormous blooms, dwarf or tall, fragrant. 2 6. white, charming for rockery. 6'-. Carnation, good border, Scabtosa caucasica, large exquisite mauve flowers, large two 3 -. Carnation Grenadin, splendid brilliant scarlet, year old plants, 12 -. Shasta Daisy, 3 '-. Sedum hybridum double border variety, grand plants, 3/6. Centaurea rubrum. 4 -. Silene compacta, pink, 1 4. Solidago Golden montana (perennial Cornflower), large fringed blooms, blue, Wings. 6,-. Solomon's Seal, 3/-. Stachys (Lamb's Wool). 3-. white, 3/-; mauve and new pink. 4/6. Cheiranthus Star of Bethlehem, 1 6. Sweet William, choice hybrids. (Siberian Wallflower), 1/4. Chelone barbata (lobster flower), 4'-. double and single, 1/6; new Scarlet Beauty, Pink Beauty! Chrysanthemums, strong rooted cuttings, early, mid or late, Crimson Beauty and Double White, 3/~. Thrift, compact pink best varieties, 3/6. Chrysanthemum maximum (Ox-eye flowering 2/-. Tritoma (Red-hot Poker), 6/-. Tussilago Daisies), enormous bloom, in flower for months, caliiornica, (Winter Heliotrope), very frasrant, 6 '-. Tunica Saxifrages, Mrs. Lothian Bell, Robinsoni, etc., 3/-. Chinese Pinks, edging or rockery, 3/-. Verbascum, large tall golden vellow, i; -. lovely colours, 3-. Cistus (Rock Rose), charming for rockery. Valerian, crimson, 3/-. Veronica gentianoides, dwarf. 'and' bright flowers, in trails, 3/-. Coreopsis grandiflora, 3/-. spicata, tall blue, 4-. Violas, Bath's bedding, from seed. Cornflowers, Kelway's, blue, 1,6. Daisies, new bedding, yellow, blue, purple, white, mauve and good mixed^ 1/9. Wall- enormous blooms, intensely double, pink or white, 1/6 ; crimson flowers, not transplanted, blood red, ruby, pink, golden yellow quilled. 1,9. Delphinium, beautiful hybrids, one year plants, and new large-flowering hybrids, 3/6 100. Siberian and Alpine 6/-. Delphinium, best named, large two year old roots, 9 -. Wallflowers, for rockeries, edging old walls, etc., in flower for Deutzia Lemoinei, lovely pink and white hybrids for pots months, very bright and pretty, 4/- 100. or border, sprays of lovely bloom, 9/-. Dianthus, new — . ,] »1l,„ , ,. " ^ »■ * * large-flowering bedding varieties, double or sinsle, all Strong Vegetable an^d Herb Plants, from open ground: colours, 1/9; very dwarf, compact and creeping for rockeries. Asparagus, Kdways Giant, two year old roots^ 7/- 100. 3/-. Evening Primrose Afterglow, lovelv new perennial ^J**™*™^ 1? \t ^gfi T /T' "q"*1 M£rjIS,Pam' variety, large yeUow, 4/s macrocarpi, very flne^wari variety, 6 -. !£*2i. <£?™ ?^ rrt7Lrtr Jhilo-t ?*« Spring Cabbage, Erica bright flowerv evergreen/alpine heath, lovelv for Brussels Sprouts, Cos and Cabbage Lettuce , Leeks Cauh- rockerv, pots, etc., lafge plants, full of bud, 9/-. Erigeron Aower, Winter TnpolOn.ons, Colewor^ Kelway s^p^uting stenactis superba, mauve, 4-. Erysimum Golden Gem, Mairow Kale, Broccoh, sprouting Broccoli, PicklingCabbage, charming for rockery, old walls, etc., 1/4. Forget-me-nots, ' Myosotis alppstris vitora, large-flowering, dwarf, blue, 1 6; Strong Transplanted Plants for Cool Qreenhouse, etc. fine deep Indigo or royal blue, 1/6. Foxgloves, new gloxinia- All per dozen, half or quarter dozen same rate. Agapanthus flowered, yellow or white, 2/8 ; ivorys, spotted or purpurea, 1/6. (blue African Lily), 6/-. Aralia {Fig Palm), 6 '-. Asparagus French Honeysuckle (not a climber), trusses, rich red flowers, Fern, erect or trailing, 6/-. Begonias, evergreen, perpetual 4/-. Fuchsia, hardy crimson bush, 6/-. Funkia (Corfu Lily), flowering, 4/-. Beauty Stocks, fragrant, early, 4 -. Cannas, lovely pure white, scented, 8/-. Qaitlardia grandiflora, beautiful lovely hybrids, 6/-. Cinerarias, exhibition and stellata, 3/-. hybrids, 3/-. Qalega (Goat's Rue), mauve cr Eucalyptus, 4 -. Bridal Wreath, 6 -. Fuchsias, choice. white, excellent for cut bloom, 3/-. Qeum Mrs. Brad shaw, large double scarlet, large two year old, 9,'-: three year old, 12/-; Glory, very fine double scarlet, 6/; coccineum, semi-double, bright scarlet, 4/-. Gladiolus, best Primula obconica, new giant, lovely colours, 6/-. Primula Heliotrope, 5/-. Lily of the Valley, 3'-. Lobelia cardinalis Queen Victoria, 6/-. Blue, white,yellowfVIarguerites, 4 -. White or crimson Tobacco, 3,-. Passion Flower, 8/-. large-flowering hybrids, many lovely new sorts, 1/0. Qypso- phila paniculata, well known gauze flower, 4/- ; glabrata, dwarf, for rockery, etc., 1,9. Harpalium (perennial Sunflowers), best sorts, 3/-. Heuchera sanguinea splendens, 6/-. Helian- malacoides, showing bud, great favourite for cut bloom, 4'- ; strong seedlings, 2/- : Sinensis, all colours : kewensis, yellow ; cortusoides, bright rose ; cashmeriana, rich purple ; denticulata, large heads, lilac, pots or rockery, 4/-. Rehmannia, pink themum (Sun Roses), bright colours, for rockery, 4/-. Hesperis trumpet, 6/-. Salvia Scarlet Zurich, 6/- ; coccinea, 4/- ( Dame's Violet), fine spikes, fragrant, purple or white, 3'-. Hollyhock, doubles, 6 - ; single and semi-double, 4/-. Hyperi- cum (St. John's Wort); large yellow flowers, evergreen foliage, creeping, 4 '-. Iceland Poppies, Excelsior strain, 3/-. Indian Pinks, hispanica (Woad*, rare handsome border plant, 4/-. Kniphophia (Torch Lily), 6/-. Lavender, fragrant, Old English, sturdy, bushy, two year old, 6/-. Lily of the Valley, strong flowering crowns, 3/-. Linum, lovely blue Flax, 3/-. Linaria dalmatica, 'inks, 2 8. Iris, laree F\L, separate colours, white, mauve. S^fef"?" 'efJ *Wi ™Vnwvf^i • aUs1;!ac\: ,-ellow blue, purple, 6/- ; mixed. 4/6; pumila, f or rockerv, 4 /- : J.™' U" *J°? *° d,. f'»™ ™ ^a < \ "&** B°w"> .ispanica (Plan's Orchid,, lovely for cutting, 3/-, . Isatis P^l^S0^10^'^ o"°"8> Saxifraga sarmentosa, trailing, 4/-. Smilax, trailing, 4/-" Streptocarpus, beautiful new hybrids, lovely Cape Primrose. 6 '-" Strong Hardy Climbers. Ampelopsis Veitchii, self climbing, small leaf, large roots, several trails, each 2/-. Clematis white, rapid Honeysuckle, very fine red-flowering Dutch, large plants, 2/6 each. Wistaria sinensis, large racemes of bluish-lilac flowers, 3/- each. Several dozen White Lilac, larce roots, bushy, 1ft., 2ft. and Oft., 8 , V) -, 12/- doz. Catalogue Free. Mrs. PYM, F.R.H.S., 10, Vine House, Woodston, Peterborough February 24, 1923.J THE GARDEN. vu. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES Our stocks are grown and selected specially for Seed purposes, and under normal con- ditions of soil and situation, cannot fail to produce first-class crops. All are Class I. Scotch, Immune varieties certified by Board of Agriculture. Bags free. Keenest prices. Write for Catalogue. NEW VARIETIES Catriona, Di Vernon, Katie Glover. FIRST EARLIES. — America, Arran Rose, Eclipse Edzell Blue. Epicure, Immune Ashleaf, Midlothian Early. Sharpe's Express, Victory, Witch Hill Early. SECOND EARLIES.— Arran Comrade, British Queen, Great Scot, K. of K., King George, Nitnsdale. MAINCROP. — Abundance, Arran Chief, Arran Victory, Bishop, Crusader. Golden Wonder. Kerr's Pink. King Edward, Langworthy, Lochar, Majestic, Khoderick Dhu, Tinwald Perfection, TJp-to-Dater White City. AUSTIN'S GOLD MEDAL GARDEN SEEDS. Descriptive Catalogue of all varieties of out- standing merit free on request. Write for copy. Orders have prompt attention. AUSTIN & McASLAN, 89-95, Mitchell Street, Glasgow. Established 1717. PAUSE TO CONSIDER THIS SPEC. *L OFFER OF CHOICE ALPINES. Then order for Spring delivery the following plants from pots : — SAXIFRAQA IRVINGM, the best pink Kabschia. ON OS MA ALBO-ROSEUM, rosy white. SAXIFRAQA KELLERII, early pink and white spikes, 6 inches. PRIMULA IIMTEQRIFOl-IA, collected plants; a fine range of colours — pale to darker pink and mauve. LITHOSPERMUM ROSEMARINIFOLIUM. a charming blue, 1 foot high. RANUNCULUS QLACIALIS, 9 inch ; collected plants, but established. DIANTHUS ALP1NUS. SAXIFRAQA BURSERIANA SULPHUREA, pale primrose, very free. RAMONDIA PYRENAICA, for shady places, mauve. CAMPANULA WALDSTE IN IANA, deep mauve, 4 inches high. QENTIANA FARRERI, a gem for morraine ; pale blue ; from China. ERYTHRAEA MASSONII (the pink Gentian); soft pink, 3 inches. Carriage paid, for cask with order, for 17/6. GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT. H. J. JONES* ChS£l£rm contains select list of all the new and best up-to-date varieties in all sections, also list of gold medal Phlox, new Michaelmas Daisies, choice Delpluniums, new Hydrangeas, giant Mont- bretias, Giant Cannas, choice Gladioli, etc., sent post free for 2d. stamp. List of CHRYSANTHEMUM NOVELTIES post free. H J. JONES' Chrysanthemum Guide. Best work on Culture. New Edition in preparation (135th thousand) ready shortly. Paper covers, post free 1% Cloth covers 2/6. H.J.J. *s GOLD MEDAL DAHLIAS. Pot roots flower murh earlier and more freHy than young plants. H.J.J, can supply at once good pot roots, best named varieties, 12 for 7/6 ; 25 for 14,- ; 50 for 25/- ; from the following sections : Cactus, Show, Modern Decorative, Pompon, Pseony, Collarette and Single. All box, packing and carriage free for cash with order. RYECROFT NURSERIES, Lewisham, S E.13. "OREODOXA" The new CHINESE HARDY RHODODENDRON, flowers bell shaped, blush pink. We can offer a limited number of strong plants, 2-3ft., with buds. Raised from seeds purchased by^us from Mr. Wilson's 1908 Expedition. (Price 10/6 — 15/- each.) V. N. QAUNTLETT & Co., Ltd., Japanese Nurseries, CHIDDINQFOLD, SURREY BORDERCARNATIONS We have magnificent stocks of all the Best Garden Varieties. To lovers of this fragrant Sower we offer specially selected stock for present planting at lowest possible prices consistent with our quality. Carriage & Packing Paid COLLECTIONS - Collection 8 L/a, 6 distinct varieties 8L/b,12 8/- .. 15/- 8 L/c, 50 plantain variety . . . . 55/- 8L/d,100 „ in 12 standard varieties 100/- ALLWOODII With the Charm & Fragrance of an Old- world Garden. THE HARDY PLANT \ Grows anywhere and . blooms from Spring to Winter. | Carriage & Packing Paid = COLLECTIONS. Collection 9 L/a, 6 distinct varieties . . . . 5 6 9 Lib, 9 „ „ .... 7,6 9 L/c, 12 „ including 1S21 novelties 12,6 9 L/d, 25 pints., stnd. vars., our selection 21 /- 9 Lie, 100 „ „ „ „ 75/- 9 L/f, 6 novelties of 1922 & 1923 ,, 21 /- Cultural Booklet 6d. post free. Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation. Fully illustrated and described in our Catalogue. SENT WITH PLEASURE. When yon think of Carnations yon think of The leading Carnation Raisers & Specialists in the world. Haywards Heath, Sussex. Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN. Catalogue Free on application. C. ENGELMANIM, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. Clearance Sale of Surplus Plants. In order to make room for replanting, we are offering the following at reduced rates. All strong transplanted. I Alyssum saxatile compactum - Anchusa Opal - - Anemone japonica Honorine Joubert Antholyza panniculata major, like a giant Montbretia - Aquilegia, mixed hybrids - Asters {Michaelmas Daisies) In variety Aubrietia Hendersoniiand purpurea, strong open ground clumps Canterbury Bells - - - - Cheiranthus Allionii - Dianthus Allwoodii (perpetual pinks): Albert — ptnk, with deeper centre ; Robert — old rose, maroon centre ; Susan — deep pink, crimson centre ; Harold — white ; Phyllis — deep pink ; strong young plants in pots Forget-me-note, Royal Blue Foxg loves - Qaillardia grandiflora - Heuchera brizoides gracillima - „ sanguinea - - Honesty ------ Iris sibirica orientalis - - - Linum perenne - Lupinus polyphyllus, new hybrids Phlox steilaria - - - - - Phloxes, in variety from named sorts - Pinks, Mrs. Sinking. The large-flowered white favourite ; strong healthy plants Stachya lanata, edging plant, white woolly foliage - - - - - Sweet Rocket - Verbascum Phoeniceum - Violets Qiant, singles - Orders of 10/- and over, Carriage Paid. Smaller orders 1/- extra. A great collection of Hardy Plants, Fruit Trees, Roses and Shrubs of all kinds in stock. Descriptive Catalogues Free. The BARNHAM NURSERIES, Ltd., BARNHAM, SUSSEX. 3/- 20 - 4/6 30/- 6/- 35/- 6/- 4/6 30 - */- 30/- 5/- 35/- 2 6 16/- 41- 25/- 9- 21- 12/- 2/6 16/- 4/- 30/- 4/- — 5- — 2/6 16/- 61- 40;- 4> — 5/- 35/- 4/- 6/- 48/- 4/6 30/- 4/- 3/- 20/- 4/- 30/- 3/- 20/- FERTILISERS. Reduced prices : LAWNS, 20'.; FRUIT TREES, VINES, 19/6: GENERAL GARDEN USE, 17/. WORM KILLER, newly introduced, 19/. ; Per cwt., carriage paid. Also all other fertilisers. HY. RICHARDSON & CO., Skeldergate Bridge Works, YORK. CAMPING.— All Campers and lovers of out- door life should read " Camping," by J. Scott Moore, published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2 ; price 9d. net- by post, lid. W. G. SMITH & CO., Limited, SOLE MANUFACTURERS Patent Metallic Non-Conducting Glass-houses VICTORIA WORKS, BURY ST. EDMUNDS. If your Wood Green- house is decayed, re- place it with one of our up-to-date PATENT METALLIC NON-CONDUCTING GLASS-HOUSES. These Metallic Houses are the very best ever made. Much lighter, neater, stronger than wood. Practically in- destructible. Cost of upkeep practically nil and nothing to get out of order. Sixty Years' Experience in Glass-house Construction. CATALOGUES, PLANS, AND ESTIMATES ON APPLICATION. THE GARDEN. [February 24, 1923. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS THE GREENHOUSE. ARUM LILIES UNSATISFACTORY (T. S. C. Hants).— The source of the trouble with the Arum probably lies much lower down than the foliage, and is no doubt to be found in the rotting of the eonu through the attack of a soft rot bacterium which also attacks various widi Ij ■ •rown crops like Turnips. The organism is often dis- tributed in water used in watering plants, and attention in securing a pure water supply is very important. The conns should be examined and all parts shewing of rotting should be cut away and burned, while wasmng in a weak disinfectant might be an advantage. Ihej should be repotted in fresji soil and in sterilised rots with sterilised crocks, sterilisation of pots and crocks could be effected by boiling in water. FRUIT GARDEN. GOOSEBERRY BUSHES DISEASED (M. of Ml — The Gooseberries were heavily infected with American rrv mildew, and should not have been sent out from the nursery. The distribution of such bush - rightly comes under the ban of the Diseases and Pests regulations, and the nurseryman should be called to account for sending them out. The introduction oi them to the garden is a menace to the health ot other i.rries there. The bushes should be cut back severely and all prunings burnt. _____„ HOW TO TRAIN A NEWLY PLANTED CHERRY TREE (Curious).— As the tree was planted just before Christmas, the roots; and soil will have settled down. and the branches may be fastened to the wires or nailed to the wall. The Morello Cherry bears its fruit on the mum" shoots — those grown during the past year — so Hi. se must be retained and tied in. Simply cut out any surplus shoots that would cause overcrowding. KITCHEN GARDEN. GROWING CARROTS IN A FRAME (A. L. M.).— We presume that our correspondent sowed seeds of an early variety — one suitable for frame culture. A gentle heat from a bed is the chief inducement to rapid growth. A little air must be admitted at all times, except when frost occurs. If the glass lights are kept closed too much top growth will be made at the expense of the roots. The early varieties rarely possess large leaves and, at the stage when the first young Laves form, the growth of the plants seems to be very 'low. As the day- lengthen and the sun gains power the Carrots will grow more satis- factorily. MISCELLANEOUS. DAFFODIL BULBS ATTACKED (S. L.).— The bulbs -1 i,r for examination are attacked by eelworm. They should not be planted out, as they are likely to infect the soil, but would be better burnt. SEEDS FOR EXAMINATION (Mrs. w , Cheshire).— Tin- -ample sent for name and stated to be the seeds of the New Zealand Palm consists of a mixture of fruits and -. eds. Tie- latter, which are black, are almost certainly those of a species of Cordyline. probably C. austrahs, known also as Dracaena australis, which is a palm-nke species belonging to the Liliacese group of plants. The small fruit has not been recognised. PLANT FOR IDENTIFICATION (W. F.).— The plant -, nt for identification is Billbergia nutans. It is a native of Brazil, but will do well in a warm greenhouse or room. The most suitable soil is a mixture of peat, leaf-soil and loam in equal parts, to which lias been added some sharp sand. Free and perfect drainage is necessary for these plants, and a layer of moss should be placed over the crocks in the bottom of the pots to prevent the soil from working down among them. Little water is necessary, just sufficient to keep the soil moist. Vesey's Patent Universal Spreader This valuable and much needed Machine is adaptable for quickly and easily distributing all dry substance such as Manures, Lawn San *. Lime. Common Sand, &c, &c, on Golf Links, Bowling Greens, Lawns, &c. PRICE - £4 17 6 For full particulars apply to — CORRY & CO., Ltd., Bedford Chambers. Coven; Garden, LONDON. W.C.I The Blue-Green Face in Church You see, on Saturday he painted the fence blue and the hen-run green, and he had never heard of KIT ! So there was no help for it. The colour came off his hands on to his face. It wore away in a week, but ... . It was pretty while it lasted. KIT'S work in life is to clean the hands when ordinary soap is not strong enough. Grease and oil and paint and tar — those are the things KIT loves to move in the twinkling of an eye. Yet the after-feel is just the same as after the morning wash with toilet soap. None of the awful smell of "turps, "or the soreness of pumice. And the speed ! KIT is the rub-and-a-wipe-and-it's-over-soap ! Price 6d. per Tin. KT. 5— 58. LEVER BROTHERS LIMITED. PORT SUNLIGHT. m^^^^ww^m February 24, 1923.] THE GARDEN. IX. Fruiting Barberries. Aggregata Coryii Rubrostilla Virescens Vulgaris Aristata Polyantha Stapfiana Verescens fructo coccinea Wilsonse Brevipaniculata Prattii Subcaulialata Yunnanense Tree and Shrub List free on application. T. SMITH, Daisy Hill Nursery, NEWRY. HERBERT'S NEW PINKS Have received Eight Awards of Merit and Gold Medals. I was also personally congratulated by Their Majesties the King and Queen at the R.H.S. Show, Chelsea. 12 CARNATIONS, Gold Medal Strain for 6/6 Price List free on afthlication. C. H. HERBERT, Nurseryman, ACOCK'S GREEN, BIRMINGHAM. The Shelley Antirrhinums THIRTY VARIETIES, including : Cerise King, A.M.. R.HS., 4d.; Pink Beauty, 4d. : Orange Beauty, 4d. ; Rosebud, 4d.; Black Prince, 3d. ; Bonny Lass. A.M., R.H.S. , 4d.: Golden Gem, A.M., R H.S., 4d. ; Maize Queen, A.M., R.H.S., 3d. ; Silver Queen, 6d. ; Purity, 6d., &c. Also SWEET PEAS and GARDEN SEEDS. T. H. DIPNALl, F.R.H.S., Shelley, Hadleigh, Suffolk. Forbes' Catalogue Carnations. Pelargoniums. Pentstemons. Phloxes. Pyrethrums. Violas. Hardy Border and Rock Plants. Seeds, etc. FREE ON APPLICATION. JOHN FORBES (Hawick) Limited, The King's Nurserymen, Hawick, Scotland. GLADIOLI. EXCELLENT QUALITY AND MODERATE PRICES. Descriptive List of Gladioli, Liliums. Begonias, etc., post free on application. 100 Gladioli, in 10 distinct named varieties, . . 8/6 50 „ „ 10 „ „ „ „ 4/9 100 Gladioli, in the finest mixture, .. .. 6/6 SO „ , .. .. 3/9 ALL Carriage Paid. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. WILLIAM HELPS, Bulb Merchant, 11, Beechfield Rd., London, N.4 LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW. BUCKS. Registered Trade ^^^m^^^^^^^^^ Mark No. 42922; "THE" FUMIGANT for WHITE FLY Non-Poisonous. No Danger. No Apparatus. SIMPLY SPRINKLE ON THE FLOOR. Sales for 2 months sufficient to fumigate over 50 million cubic feet. Hundreds cf Testimonials Received. Please Obtain from Your Seedsman or Nurseryman. Commended by The Royal Horticultural Society. Cubic ft. 1 000 2;000 4.000 8,000 16,000 32,000 64.000 and in Drums. Price lOd. 1 J 21- 3/6 6/- 10/6 19/- CORRY & CO., Ltd., Shad Thames, LONDON, S.E.1. Beware of Imitations. NEW RASPBERRY 'LLOYD GEORGE' UNEQUALLED for SIZE OF FRUIT and WEIGHT OF CROP, Combined with VERY FINE FLAVOUR. STRONG CANES, 5/- per doz. ; 35/- per 100. Carriage paid ALBERT ROBINSON, F.R.H.S., Kings wood, Bawtry, Yorks. H.77 GREAT PRICE REDUCTIONS | IN THE HIGH GRADE | "B.P." GARDEN FRAMES IT is now possible to offer " B. & P." Garden Frames * of Pre- War Standard at greatly reduced prices.;; These frames are sent from the works ready painted, and glazed 2 1 oz. English glass, complete with bolts ; they can be put together in a few minutes by any amateur. A Typical Example. No. H.77 (illustrated)— VIOLET OR BORDER FRAME. 4ft. wide, painted 2 coats, and glazed with 2loz. English glass; height in front, 8ins„ and at back 1 6ins. Supplied either wit i sliding lights or hinged lights and setopes. / light frame, 6ft. x 4ft. (Sliding lights) 2 light frame, 6ft. x 4ft. (Hinged lights) £4:2:0 3 „ „ 9ft. x. 4ft. £5:16:0 4 „ „ 12ft. x 4ft. „ £7:10:0 Carnage paid on all orders of 40/- and upwards to Railway Stations in England and Wales. Write for Folder C1S1. Enquiries invited for : — Conservatories, Glasshouses, Peach Houses, Vineries, Carnation Houses, and Horticultural Work of every description. Heating Apparatus of all kinds. £3:10:0 2 light frame, 9/1. X 4/1. $ 4^ . 1 O . ft (Sliding lights) ... **,• 10 • V 3 light frame, 12fl.X4/t. f R . R . h (Sliding lights) ... *W • " • " oulton 8 Xciul Ij td Telegrams. BOULTON NORWICH NORWICH Telephone NORWICH 851 (51 ines) LONDON OFFICE 135-137. QUEEN VICTORIA ST. E.C Telegrams: Boutique.Cent London.Telephone4642 Cent The "IDEAL" PORTABLE GREENHOUSE. TENANTS OWN. SOUND QUALITY. 9ft. by 6ft. 10ft. by 7ft. . £20 19 0 £24 10 0 12ft. by 8ft. 15ft. by 9ft. . . £31 . . £40 O 0 5 0 Other sizes quoted for. CARRIAGE PAID. Complete with Staging. An "Ideal" House for an "Ideal" Garden. SEND FOR LIST. THIS House la not a shoddy and poorly constructed house that gives you great difficulty in erecting, and when erected is an everlasting eyesore; such a house would disfigure any garden. You require a house that is built for utility and to be ran ornament in your garden, in which ~case select the "IDEAL," which is constructed of the best materials, in the best possible manner, and with which there is no difficulty in erecting, being despatched assembled as far as possible, nothing whatever being left to be done on the site that could conveniently be done here. f ADHCM PDAMP^ Prepared of well-seasoned 5 Red Deal. riy^lVlCJ. |_ignt3 2 in. thick, glazed with 21 oz. glassTTfTrpainted three coats. Lights fitted with liandle and iron cross bar bolted together. Other sizes quoted for. Carriage Paid. 1 Light Frame, 4ft. by 6ft. £4 4 0 13 Light Frame, 9ft. by 4ft. £6 19 0 „ , 6ft. by 4ft. £5703,, „ 12ft. by 6ft. £970 5 „ „ 8ft. by 6ft. £6 16 0 | W. T. REVITT, Railway Works, OLNEY. THE GARDEN. tireliteB^iler ■en mi II MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a " Horse Shoe " with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 38,000 Sold. Used in the R.H S. ami Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet £ and quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«PKiiuvellaC°Ltd Southward St LONDON. S.E.I. $m&r£^x*7tfrs?vsrz "Roses in December!" in his garden. In yours, too — if you'll help your rose-bushes to grow hardy and robust. You can do it, as easily as he has, by using ECLIPSE Fish Manure. Your neighbours will crane their necks to take a look at your garden if you will learn this simple secret: It's the soil that's at faultnine times out of ten. The soil isn't rich enough. Strengthen it with ECLIPSE Fish Manure — and you will get hardy plants and rich deep-coloured blooms, in season and out of season. F.CLIPSE Fish Manure contains Phosphates. Nitrogen and Potasi in their proper proportions. Being largely organic, it supplies humus to the soil. PRICES: 7Ibs. 141bs.28lbs 56 lbs. 112lbs. 2/6 41- 7/- 12/- 24/- Obtainable from all the leading Seedsmen, or if sent by rail 11- per package to be added towards carriage. THE HUMBER FISHING & FISH MANURE CO., LTD, 9. Stoneferry. Hull. VELVET LAWNS | The use of Climax Lawn Sand or "Premier" L Lawn Dressing now will be a revelation to you. Nothing else so reliable- PARTICULARS AND ADVICE FREE. Garden Supplies it? vx£, CRANMER STREET. LIVERPOOL I AUCTION SALES BY PROTHEROE & MORRIS Every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY, of ROSES, AZALEAS & RHODODENDRONS, Herbaceous and Rook Plants, FRUIT TREE8, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, BULBS, etc., At 67 & 68, Cheapside, London,E.C2 Write for Catalogues. 'Phone : Bank 857. [February 2.1, 1923. SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMICALLY PREPARED. In the form of a leaf-mould ready for use at any time, in the same way. and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes further (4 bushels equalling 1» cwts.). gives better result, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. A Beautiful Free Booklet giving full particulars and testimonials sent on receipt of postcard tm- BEWARE OF IMITATIONS. GENUINE ONLY IN OUR MARKED BAGS, CONTAINING GUARANTEED ANALYSIS "W CMh Prices, including bags ; Small (about 1 bushel), 3/- : Large (about 4 bushels), 7/.; 5 Large 33/9- 10 Large, 65/-; 20 Large, 120/-. Carriage Paid to any station within 25 miles of London, including delivery within free delivery radius of Railway Company, bd. per bag extra for every 50 miles or part beyond WAKELEY BROS. & CO., Ltd., 7Se, BANK8IDE, LONDON, S.E.1. WANTED.— "^The Garden," 1915-21, or 1915, bound or t loose. Complete. — Ellis, Stourvole Villa, Wye, Kent. Largest Manufacturers of Flower Pots in the World. it it it THE BEST AND CHEAPEST. SPECIAL POTS for Roses, Vines, Clematis, Orchids, and Chrysanthemums. Fancy Fern Pans and Bulb Bowls, from 4d. each. No Waiting ! All Orders executed the same day as received. State quantity of each size required, and have Carnage Paid Quotation, or write for Illustrated Price List. RICHARD SANKEY & SON, LTD., Rofai Potteries. BULWELL. NOTTINGHAM. STORING VEGETABLES AND FRUITS, with chapters on " Drying in the Oven and by the Kitchen Fire." By Herbert Cowley. 9d. net, by post lid. — Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet by Owes Thomas, v.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Offices, 20, Tavistock I Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. Selected DUTCH BULBS, ROSES g PERENNIAL PLANTS FOR SPRING PLANTING. Descriptive Catalogue free on application. Delivery carriage paid. No Charge for Packing. JOHN B. VAN DER SCHOOT THE OLD-ESTABLISHED BULB FARMS (Own Bulb Farms over 400 Acres) HILLEGOM, HOLLAND Telegrams : NARCISSUS, HILLEGOM icKen 'GARDfTTrTrniLTsi Assist Nature by using VICKERS' GARDEN FERTILISER It is used extensively by Gardeners, Horticulturists, and Allotment Holders, and always gives complete satisfaction. -CHEAPEST, BEST, AND MOST ECONOMICAL- GUARANTEED ANALYSIS A | PERFECT PLANT FOOD FOR FRUIT, FLOWER, AND VEGETABLE GARDENS. Sold by the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble 18°, Citric Soluble Insoluble Nrtrogen Equal to Amm*nia Soluble Potash (K20) 485 5% Equal to Sulphate of Potash (K2S04) 9 25 , Packed in Sealed Bags, 7lb. 2/-, MIL. 3 6, 281b. 6/6, 561b. 12/6, 1121b. 24 6 per Bag. If you have any difficulty in obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS & SONS, Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, WIDNES, LANCS. Published by "Country Life," Limited, at 20. Pri Tavistock Street. Strand. W.C.2, and by GEfRGE Newnes. Limited, S-II, Southampton Street, Strand, W.C.2. nted by The Avenue Press. 55 & 57, Drury Lane. London. W.C.2. THE GARDEN ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2676. Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York. N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, March 3, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription : Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign, 17/4 MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN! FOR EXHIBITION I FOR BEDS! FOR EVERYWHERE I Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL. NOTTS. Barr's Lilies and Gladioli FOR MARCH PLANTING. LILIUM AURATUM, the white golden-rayed spotted Lily of Japan, bearing large sweetly- scented flowers .. .. .. .. .. strong bulbs per dozen, 18/6 ; each 1,9 LILIUM HENRYI, crand autumn-flowering Lily per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- LILIUIVI HANSONI, the Japanese yellow Martagon Lily, bright golden yellow spotted crimson-maroon .. .. .. .. .. ., .. per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- LILIUM SPEOIOSUM ALBUM, handsome white flowers .. per dozen, 18/6 ; each 1/9 LILIUM SPECIOSUM MELPOMENE, fine handsome flowers, rich crimson, spotted purple-crimson and margined white , . . . . . , . per dozen, 25/- ; each 2/3 LILIUM UMBELLATUM, large orange-scarlet flowers, monster bulbs per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- GLADIOLUS Large-flowered Hybrids in Choice Mixture of many beautiful colours per 100, 32/6 ; per dozen, 4/6 GLADIOLUS Hybrid Butterfly, Splendid Mixture, all very beautiful per 100, 25/- ; per dozen 3/6 GLADIOLUS PRIMULINUS, New Hybrids, Mixed, beautiful form and delicate colours per 100, 21/- j per dozen, 3/- Descriptive Catalogue of Lilies, Gladioli, Tigridias, etc., free on application. 11, 12 & 13, KING STREET, COVENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.C.2. BARR & SONS, THE WORLD'S BEST MANURE. rst at Shrewsbury this year. J-cwt., 16/6; 28 lbs., 9/-; 141bs., 5/-. THE PURPLISH-ROSE RHODODENDRON PRECOX. "LE FRUITIER"^! Prices: — 1 cwt., 30/ TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truck loads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIG IN ELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6. 'Phone Hornsey 2868. 11. THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923 "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & Retail Plant LANGPORT, SON Department SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HANDY AZALEA8 AND R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 FLOWERINQ SHRUBS Fop planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON TWERTON^HlLL NURSERY BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen , etc. DAWKINS Book of 408, King's Road Seeds CHELSEA, S.W. now ready R. H. BATH Ltd. Home Grown The Floral Farms Bulbs and WISBECH Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. E]B]E]S]E]E]5]E]E]E]E]E]E]B]gE]5]B]B] 1 KINGS ACRE ROSES 1 noted for over a Century for 13 51 hardiness and reliability. 13 Useful alphabetically 13 Ql arranged Catalogue of more 13 Ql than usual interest, contain- 13 ing helpful information, with 13 Ql Special Collections for all 13 purposes. Free on request. 13 13 01 El KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. 13 HEREFORD. [3 El La Is Is la Is la la Is la la la la la La ta la E 13 Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. HY. RICHARDSON & CO. Skeldergate Bridge Works YORK Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Lawn, Garden, Fruit Trees, and Horticultural Fertilisers a FOGWILLS Best-Result" Seeds WILL GROW GET THIS FREE. Landscape Gardening W. H. GAZE & SONS, Ltd. Garden Architects and Craftsmen, KINGSTON - ON -THAMES and at 10, Conduit Street, W.i. All Tennis Court. Model Gardens and Nurseries 'THE GAZEWAY," Surbiton, S.W. Sole Makers of the Weatlier " Hard Crazy and rectangular Paving Stone loaded on rail ; Sundials, Garden Figures, etc.. in lead and stone. Write to W. Gaze, 19-23. High St,, Kingston-on-Thames, for Illustrated Catalogue 4D, or an appoint- ment to inspect the Model Gardens and Garden Furnishings at "The Gazeway." Kingston 3000 (6 lines) May fair 397 J. CHEAL & NURSERLfiS CRAWLEY SONS Ltd. Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. IT TELLS ABOUT THE "SEEDS THAT ARE DIFFERENT." Post free with particulars of Free Seeds from FOGWILLS SEED HOUSE (Dept. E), GUILDFORD. Established 10 years. HODSONS, LIMITED i4,Victoria St., London, s.w. i &58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts GEORGE G WHITELEGG, The Nurseries CHISLEHURST, KENT WRITE ME Landscape and Garden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re-arranged. Plant- ing plans tor borders, etc. Terms on appli- cation. .{Continued from opposite page.) RARE ALPINES.— Oxalis adenophylla, Iris histrioides major, Parochetus, Pelargonium endlicherianum, Primula helodoxa, Sisyrinchinm grandiflorum, Soldanellas and rare Saxifrages are all included in our Alpine Catalogue, ! post free. Herbaceous Catalogue and List of Hardy Orcliids ialso free. — Bo well & Skakratt, Nurseries, Cheltenham. SCOTCH SEEO POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for cropping and Exhibition purposes. Thirty of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 1923. Post Free Copy on application. If interested also ask for our Nursery List of Hardy Scotch Plants, Roses Fruit Trees, etc. Thyne & Son, Dept. G, Dundee. Tubs for shrubs. 1 WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prizes. R.H.S Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak, Beech, Teak. etc. Highly decorative.— Price List from Pradal & Co., 26, Goodge Street. London. W.I. The Shelley Sweet Peas Spring Sown Plants, ready Mid-April. 1923 Novelties, 3/- per dozen. 1922 Novelties, 2/- and 1/6 per dozen. Older varieties from 4d. to 1/- per dozen. Also ANTIRRHINUMS and GARDEN SEEDS. Lists Free. T. H. 0IPNALL, F.R.H.S., Shelley, Hadleigh, Suffolk. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. I PULHAM © SON " *«.' . nTv-»nm,jFviT Trt Mic ija if*:t-\ BV APPOINTMENT TO HIS MAJESTY B 71 NEWMAT+ St* OXrORD 5T I LONDON -V 'GPAPniC'CUP fpr best RockGarden j CHELSEA- 1922 Plar\s s> 5urueys- Vases ■ FbLir\tbir\V PicXires-Scjrydials-Dc SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving full cultural directions at competitive prices, Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D. T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus ! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small trees, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 196 per mile (full 1,760 yards). Send for trial lot or samplesto-day. — Green's Surplus Stores, 205, Seymour Road, Lythani. LISSADELL NEW ALPINE & HERBACEOUS SUPPLEMENT is now with the printers, and will be posted to all customers shortly. Copies will be sent to others interested on receipt of a post card. — Minaoer, Lissadell, Sligo. ALPINES. — Rare Species and Garden Hybrids. List. — Miss Taylor, Quarry Orchard, Reigate. EGGS FOR HATCHING. — Utility, 7 6 ; better. 15/-; special, 20/- sitting. Day old Chicks, 30;- and in - doz. Wyandottes, Leghorns, Bamevelders, K.I. Reds, Black Wyandotte Bantams, White Runners, Magpie Ducks, Buif Orpington Ducks. List free.— Sydney Hiller, Cleveland Poultry larni, Standon, Herts. IF? Si irj m KM as m BEGONIAS 42 - 35 - 30 - 24 - 35 - 28 - 100 • 1 In superb quality and extra large tubers for Greenhouse or Bedding. DOUBLE, in 8 colours, Mowers like large Roses and Camellias .. .. 6- per doz. DOUBLE, in mixed colours „ .. „ .... 5 - ,, SINGLES, in 6 colours, very large fine shaped Sowers .. .. .. .. 46 ,, SINGLES, in mixed colours „ ,, .. .. .. .. 3 6 „ SINGLES, frilled or crested, in 6 colours . . . . . . . . . . 5/- „ SINGLES, frilled or crested, in mixed colours . . . . . . . . 4/- „ Collection of 36 largs Tubers, 12 doubles, 12 singles, 12 frilled single, 14 - Post free on orders of £1 and over. Send for FREE Catalogue of namel Begonias for Exhibition Basket varieties. Cyclamen, Carnations, ^Delphiniums, Gloxinias, Polyanthus, etc.j NOW IS THE BEST TIME TO PLANT DELPHINIUMS. We have pleasure in offering the following Collections in specially good value, in strong ground roots which will make a grand show of bloom this year. COLLECTION A, COLLECTION B, 12 extra choice sorts 12 very choice sorts 75 - 45 - COLLECTION C, 12 fine sorts COLLECTION D, 12 good sorts 35/- 25 - CATALOGUE FREE, Apply :h BLACKMORE & LANGDON, Bath. March 3, 1923.] &®-^s— ■ E GARDEN. SSsf*-22^ fete# -^g»=i*^PSJs=» WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials, Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— John Waterer Sons and Crisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks ; and London. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on. p. iv. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Eoad, South Tottenham, N.15. — Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round, chestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co, Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex.— Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli. THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli is now ready. Send for particulars of highest class Beed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Masitre and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — Hodson and Son, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells & Co., Meratham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection Invited. Price list post free on application. — Thos. Rivers & Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridge worth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus.— Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. RARE PRIMULA AND ALPINE SEEDS from one of the largest and choicest collections. Sold cheap. Lists free.— Rev. J. F. Anderson, Glenn Hall, Leicester. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 ; Express, 2/8; Epicure, 21- : Ashleaf, 2/9; Great Scot, 1/10; Arran Comrade, 1/9; Kerr's Pink, 1/8; Majestic, 2/-; Rhoderiek Dhu, 2/8 ; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early, 2/- ; Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K. of E., 2/- ; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward, 1/10 : Arran Chief, 1/9 ; T. W. & Co., Plotholder, 2/9 ; Field Marshal, 2/6 ; Golden Wonder, 2/- ; Tinwald Perfection, 1/9 ; Ally, 2/- ; Witchhill, 2/9 ; Bloomfield, 2/-, etc. Carriage Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks, Onions, Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce, Radish, Celery, Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt., 2d., 3d. and 6d. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries for Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Tillie, Whyte and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— List of varieties with prices on application. — Alexander Graham, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. MORRIS'S LIVE SEEDS (29th Season).— Reliable quality, reasonable prices. Full list of tho worth- while varieties free. Shallots, 101b., 6/3 ; Onion Sets, 41b., 5/. Carr. paid. Scotch Seed Potatoes, finest grading, Inspected stocks from 10/- cwt.— Morris's, Seedhouse, 225, Bristol Street, Birmingham. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10/6 each. Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chichester. BARR'S FLOWER & VEGETABLE SEEDS, of finest selected strains and tested growth, also the best Scotch and Irish grown Seed Potatoes. Descriptive Catalogue free. BARR'S HARDY PERENNIALS, ALPINES, ROCK PLANTS, AQUATICS, CLIMBERS, etc., for Spring planting. Catalogue free. BARR'S LILIES, GLADIOLI, DAHLIAS, CANNAS, MONTBRETIAS, ANEMONES, BEGONIAS, TUBEROSES, Ac, for Spring planting. Catalogue free — Babr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations can now be planted in any part of Great Britain. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorious scent. We have won more carnation awards of R.H.S. than any two firms together. Sow seed now, 2/6 and 6/- Plant list free.— J. Douglas, Edenslde, Great Bookham. CONTENTS Lily Pictures in the Garden The Invaluable Gladiolus Some Marsh-loving Primulas — / The Herbaceous Lupin Perpetual-Flowering Pinks (Herbertii) Small-growing Shrubs Small-leaved Rhododendrons Notes of the Week. . Lawns and Lawn Mowers ; The Tooth- wort. Correspondence Primula Winteri ; The Teneriffe Broom ; Thalictrum adiantifolium and its Hardi- ness ; The Myrobalan Plum ; Chrysan- themum Tokio ; Primula chionantha ; The Season ; Spottiness in Planting ; Foreign-grown Plants ; A Fine Pyra- canth. Herbaceous Phloxes Fruit Tree Stocks The Old English Herbals Semi-Natural Gardening Notes on Freesias Early Vegetable Border . . Gardening of the Week Spiraea palmata and Others Answer's to Correspondents IOI i°3 104 i°5 106 106 107 108 109 in 1 1 1 112 112 "3 "3 114 x. ILLUSTRATIONS Dianthus Herbertii May Queen Gladiolus Unsurpassable . . . . Freesia Canary Lathrtea Clandestina Lilium Henryi L. Parryi L. regale and L. Willmottice Lupinus polyphyllus, three typical varieties L. polyphyllus in the border Phloxes, A Border of Primula tibetica P. Wardii Primus cerasifera (Myrobalan Plum) Pyracantha angustifolia Rhododendron intricatum . . R. moupinensc ... i . . . . 106 i°3 113 10S 102 102 101 105 105 1 1 1 104 104 109 1 10 107 107 JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90 Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91. ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free. Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 16, Morden Rd„ Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a perfect fertiliser ; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. SUTTON'S BULBS FOR SPRING PLANTING. double white Mowers, TUBEROSE, "The Pearl,' Mvpi'th 4/6 per doz. ; 30/-, 100 scented. Valuable for bouquets Bulbs just to hand. GLADIOLI. — List of named varieties on application SUTTON & SONS, THE KING'S^ SEUDSMEN.READING NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT _ KELWAY'S LOVELY PJEONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupines, Gaillardias, Phloxes Poeonies, etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Roses' now ready. — Write for descriptive Catalogues to Kelway and SON, The Royal Hurticulturist^Langport. Somerset DOBBIE & CO., LTDT^Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogue and Guide to Gardening, free^jf this paper is mentioned. BATH'S SELECT SEEDSAND PLANTS^ New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies.— (Dept. E) R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free — Moorton, 65, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PERRY'S SPECIAL OFFER OF JAPANESE LILIES, GLADIOLUS, MONTBRETIAS. Perry's Seed Cata- logue now ready. — Hardy Plant Farm. Enfield. PRIOR'S COLCHESTERROSESTFruit Trees, Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free.— D. Prior & Son, Ltd., Colchester. LAXTON'S SEEDS AND FRUIT TREES.— Catalogues (mention which required), containing novelties and all the old favourites, can be had on application. — Laxton Brothers, Sced_Merchants, Bedford. PRIVET & THORN.— Also Rhododendrons, Heathers and Alpines. Send for List. — Hodsonb Limited, 58. Castlegate, Nottingham. ALPINES, ROCK PLANTS, SHRUBS^lfom private garden ; moderate prices ; many testimonials. List free. — Mrs. Louis Smith, Ballawley Park, Dundrum, Dublin. ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection of the best Vezetable and choicest strains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices, is now ready and will be sent free on application. — J. R. Pbabson * Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. SHOW AND REGAL PELARGONIUMS.— Strong, clean, healthy plants from Sin. pots. 12 fine named varieties, 7/6. Newer ones, 10/- and 12/- per dozen. Novelties of 1920, 15/- per dozen. All free by parcel post for cash with order, or carriage paid per passenger train in Leatherboard pots, 2/6 per dozen extra. Catalogues extra. — J. W. COLE <4 Son, Midland Road Nursery, Peterborough. SEEDS OR TINY SEEDLINGS~TO REPLACE SEEDS.— NO WORRY ! NO DISAPPOINTMENTS Millions ready for distribution at correct dates. Begonia, Celosia. Cineraria, Primula obconica, etc. Auricula, Aquilegia, Carnation, Cowslip, Polyanthus. Pansy, etc. Choicest Sweet Peas in Seeds and Plants. Stocks, Asters and other Bedding Annuals. Catalogue on application sent free if this paper is mentioned. — Storrie & Storrie, Flower Seed Specialists, Glencarse, Perthshire. ROCK PLANTS, best varieties, inexpensive. List free. — Marion Gledftane^ Fardross, Clogher, Ireland. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wirework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists. — Bouxton AND Paul, LIMITED, Norwich^ CHOICE PERENNIALS AT PRE-WAR PRICES.— Delphiniums, prize strain, 4/6; Cheiranthus Allionii, 2/6 ; Geum, Mrs. Bradshaw, 4/6 ; Carnation, Raby Castle, best salmon, 5/-; Polyanthus, monster hybrids, 2/6; Giant Pink Bedding Daisies, 2/-; Viola, Maggie Mott, 2/6; Michaelmas Daisies, latest and named varieties, 4/6; Choice Alpines, 5/-; all per dozen. Catalogues free. 10/6 orders carriage paid. P.RAMBLEBURY NURSERIES. Bude, Cornwall. GREENHOUSE PAINTING AND GLAZING. * Vitro lite," superior to White Leari Paint, 18/6 per gallon; rans extra. " Plastine," the Imperishable Putty, 32/- per cwt. ; kegs extra ; 71b. tins, 4/3, post free. 141b. tins, 5/6 each, carriage extra, tins free. — Full particulars from W. Carbon and Sons, Grove Works, Battersea. THE GARDEN. WONDERFUL RESULTS Obtained by using Wakeley's Patented Hop Manure. DIPLOMA AND MEDAL AT THE ROYAL INTER- NATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION, 1912. celebrated' HOP MANURE Beware of imitations. Genuine Only in Our Marked Bags, Containing Guaranteed Analysis. ( PATENTED. ) Fertilizer - ,\ ^EENHO^V SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMI- CALLY PREPARED in the form of a leaf- mould, ready for use at any time, in the same way, and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes further (4 bushels equalizing 15 cwts.), gives better results, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. Cash Prices (including bags): Read Free Booklet. . ONLY ^ « RELIABLE % SUBSTITUTE rOR 2&£ tf£ EVERY DRESSING OF WAKELEY'S HOP MANURE enriches the soil with the Humus it contains, doing lasting good, quite unlike the ordinary chemical manures, which act only as stimulants, and which, by constant use, impoverish it. Small (about 1 bushel), 3/- ; Large (about 4 bushels), 7/- ; 5 Large, 33/9 ; 10 Large, 65/-; 20 Large, 120/-. Carriage paid to any station within 25 miles of London, including delivery within free delivery radius of Railway Company.- 6d. per bag extra for every 50 miles or part beyond. A beautiful Free Booklet giving full particulars and testimonials sent on receipt of postcard. WAKELEY BROS. & CO., Ltd., 75a, Bankside, London, S.E.1 ALLWOODII With the Charm & Fragrance of an Old- world Garden. I THE HARDY PLANT Grows anywhere and blooms from Spring to Winter. I Carripge & Packing Paid COLLECTIONS. Collection 9 L/a, 6 distinct varieties 5 6 9L'V 9 „ „ .. ' 76 i1 lJ £ I2 '■ '"eliding 1S21 novelties 12 6 9 L/d, 25 pints., our selection 21- 9L/e, 100 „ „ 75,. 9 L/f, 6 novelties 1922 & 1923 vara. " 21 /- Cultural Booklet 6d. post free. BORDERGARNATIONS We have magnificent stocks of all the Best Q trden Varieties. To lovers of this fragrant flower we offer specially select; J stock for present planti ig at lowest possible I prices consistent with our quality. Carri ige & Packing Paid COLLECTIONS I Collection 8 L/a, 6 distinct varieties 8L/b, 12 8/- .. 15/- „ 8 L c, 50 plants in variety .. .. 55/- ii 8 L d, 100 ,, in 12 standard varieties 100 - Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation. i-ully illustrated and described in our Catalogue. SENT WITH PLEASURE. When you think of tarnations yon think of The leading Carnation Raisers & Specialists in the world. C^&AsVrlTfCYS^ DEPT. 4. Haywards Heath, Sussex. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. 'The Modern Gladiolus' is the most interesting brochure on rare and beautiful Gladioli ever issued in this country as a catalogue. Everyone who is really interested in high-class Gladioli may have a copy on request. SEED. — Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Del- phinium is of exceptional quality. Please send for Seed Leaflet. Border Carnations. — Fine plants in best selection at 12/6, 16/-, 21/- and 25'- per doz. ; post free on orders over 20/-, under that amount please add 1/- for carriage. LOWE /-. Anchusa myosotidi flora, masses of deep gentian blue, white, 4/-. Monarda (Bergamot), Cambridge Scarlet, 6/-. white eye, lovely "for rockery, 6/-. Achillea, Perry's Double Myrtle, fragrant bush, white flowers, 9/-. Onopordon, White, 6/-. Achillea Kelwayi, fine crimson, and Cerise Queen, handsome Thistle, 6,'-. Pansies, best large- flowering Bugnots, 6/-. Alpine Wallflowers, yellow or orange, 1/4 ; lovely bright Bismarck, Masterpiece, etc., also separate colours for bedding^ Dew mauve, very effective, 1 9. Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily), purple, white, light and dark blue, Golden Queen, red, orange and flame, 6/-. Alyssum montanum, rare Alpine, yellow, 1/6. Pansy, Coquette de Poissey, lovely bedding, fragrant, bright yellow, summer flowering, 6/-. Antirrhinums, mauve, 1/10. Pulmonaria (Jerusalem blue Cowslip), very rare, new large-flowering, in all the new art colours, separate or mixed, large two year old roots, 12-. Papaver Oriental Queen, strong bushy, autumn sown and transplanted, 2/8. Antirr- extremely handsome, 6/-. Papaver pilosum, showy orange-red, hinums, strong autumn sown, best mixed (not transplanted), 3;-. Passion Flowers, hardy blue and white, 12/-. 1/6. Anthemis Kelwayi, fine golden yellow, 4/-. Anthemis Pentstemon, lovelv large • flowering and scarlet 4/-* atynaca, for rockery, silvery foliage, white flowers, 6/-. gentianoides blue sha'des, 3/-. Periwinkle, large blue Aquilegia, best long spurred, one year plants, 4/- ; Kelway's evergreen, 4/-. Pea, Everlasting, white, pink, red, 6/-. Pinks, . double and single, mixed, 3/-. _ coloured, 1/9. Potentilla, double crimson, 4'-. Primulas Aubnetia, rich purple, 2/8. Aubrietia, new large-flowenng lovelv hardy varieties, assorted, for rockeries, bogs, borders etc hybrids, 4/-. Auricula alpinus, lovely varieties, 4/6. Balm, 5/_. Pasonies, 9/-. Phlox, separate colours, 6'-. Polyanthus, fragrant. 4/-. Brompton Stocks, one year old plants, Scarlet best large flowering, one year old, 2/6. Pyrethrum, Kelway's Giant and mixed, 3,'-. Brompton Stocks, strong autumn sown hvbrids, 4/-. Primrose, blue, one vear old, 6<- Rockery (not transplanted), 1/6. Campanulas, dwarf rockery, etc., blue Gems : Primula rosea, hritrht pink, and Primula denticulata or white, 6/-; tall, 4/-; pyramidal^, two year old, 6/-. Canter- ]arge heads, lilac-mauve, strong plants, 6-. Pinks, Mrs bury Bells, year old, single, white, blue or mixed hybrids, 1/6; sinkins, large fragrant, double white, 6 '-. double pink, 'white, blue, "and single pink, also cup and saucer, Rose Campion, deep crimson, 3/-. Sweet Rocket, 3 -. Rud- ' ?f"?c|ytuf* . (perI™aih ™asllS^f S**, * beckia Newmanii superba, 6/-. Rudbeckia Golden Ball, double, 6/-. Salvia Argentea, strikingly beautiful silvery leaves in large rosettes, pinkish-white_flowers, 4 -. Saponaria white, charming for rockery, 6/-. Carnation, good border, 3 '-. Carnation Grenadin, grand border variety, profusion of large brilliant scarlet double flowers, large plants, 3/6. Centaurea montana (perennial Cornflower), large fringed blooms, blue, white, 3/- ; mauve and new pink, 4/6. Cheiranthus ocymoides, dwarf trailing, 3/-. Saxifraga, mossy, crimson or pink flowering, 6/-. Saxifraga, white, 4/-. Sweet Scabious, enormous blooms, dwarf or tall, fragrant, 2/6. (Siberian Wallflower), 1/4. Chelonebarbata (lobster flower), 4'-. Scabiosa caucasica, large exquisite mauve flowers? large two Chrysanthemums, strong rooted cuttings, early, mid or late, w , t v> 8hasta Daisy, 3/-. Sedum hybridum best varieties, 3/6. Chrysanthemum maximum (Ox-eye nbrwa, £h. Silene compacta, pink 1/4. Solidago Golden Daisies), enormous bloom, m flower for months, calitonuca, WinBS. 6... Solomon's Seal, 3/- Stachys (Lamb's Wool), 3/-. Mrs Lothian Bell Kobinsom, etc., 3/- Ch.nese Pinks, star of Bethlehem, 1 6. Sweet William, choice hvbrids, lovely colours, 3/:. C.stus (Rock Rose), charming for rockery, doab]e and . , i/fl' new Scar,et Beaut' Pink B*eautv bright flowers m tra.ls 3/- Coreopsis grandiflora 3/-. crimson Beauty and Double White, 3/-. Thrift, compact pink Cornflowers, Kelway's blue 1/6, Daisies, new bedding, fiowering 2/-. Tritoma (Red-hot Poker), 6/- Tussilaco enormous blooms intensely double pink or white, 1/6; crimson (Winter Heliotrope), verv fragrant, 6/-. Tunica Saxifrages, quilled, 1 ' Delnhinium. he 1 hvbrids. one vear olants. :j_! .__— T A\ */-_«." _'_ I *_.. ««*■■■ "V"^ I 1,9. Delphinium, beautiful hybrids, one year plants, edging or rockery, 3/-. Verbascum, large tall golden yellow, 6,- W- Delphinium , best named, large twe .year old roots, 9-. valerian, crimson 3/-. Veronica gentianoides, dwarf, and Deutz.a Lemoinei, lovely Pmk and white hybrids for pots icata ^ b, 4/.'_ Vio| Bath%s beddW, from seed, or border, sprays of lovely bloom, 9/-. Dianthus, new -.*'- - ...^ bedding varieties, double or single, all yellow, blue, purple, white, mauve and good mixed," 1/9. Wall- large-fiowermg oeooing varieties, aouoie or smgu-, an flowers, not transplanted, blood red, ruby, pink, golden veUow colours 1/9; very dwarf, compact and creeping for rockeries, and new large-flowering hvbrids, 3/6 100. Siberian and Alpine 3/-. Evenmg Primrose Afterglow, lovely new perennial Wallflowers, for rockeries, edtrmg old walls, etc., in flower for variety, large ^yellow, 4/- ;macrocarpa, very fine dwarf vane y, 6/-. montns very bright and pretty, 4/- 100. Erica, bright flowery evergreen, alpine heath, lovely for * J' ' rockery, pots, etc., large plants, full of bud, 9/-. Erigeron stenactis superba, mauve, 4/-. Erysimum Golden Gem, charming for rockery, old walls, etc., 1/4. Forget-me-nots, Strong Vegetable and Herb Plants, from open ground; Asparagus, Kelway's Giant, two year old roots, 7/- 100 . three years, 10/- 10O. Sage, Thyme, Mint, Marjoram, Myosotis alpestris vitora, large-flowering, dwarf, blue, 1/6; 3/- doz. Parsley, best curled. 1/4 doz. Spring Cabbage, fine deep Indiso or royal blue, 1/6. Foxgloves, new gloxinia- Brussels Sprouts, Cos and Cabbage Lettuce, Leeks, Cauli- flowered, yellow or white, 2/8 ; ivorys, spotted or purpurea. 1/6. flower, Winter Tripoli Onions, Coleworts, Kelway's Sprouting French Honeysuckle (not a climber), trusses, rich red flowers, Marrow Kale, Broccoli, Sprouting Broccoli, Pickling Cabbage, 4/-. Fuchsia", hardy crimson bush. 6/-. Funkia (Corfu Lily), lovely pure white, scented, 8/-. Qaillardia grandiflora, beautiful new hybrids, 3/-. Galega (Goat's Rue), mauve cr white, excellent for cut bloom, 3/-. Qeum Mrs. Brad shaw, large double scarlet, large two year old, 9/-: three year old, 12/-; Glory, very fine double scarlet, 6/; flowenna^/ coccineum, semi-double, bright scarlet, 4/-. 0|ai large- flowering hybrids, many lovely new sorts phila paniculata, well known gauze flower dwarf, for rockery; best sorts, 3' tawnv, orang< splendens, 6/-. Helianthemum (Sun Roses), bright colours, for rockery, 4/-. Hesperis (Dame's Violet), fine spikes, fragrant, purple or white, 3/-. Hollyhock, doubles, 6/-; single and semi-double, 4/-. Hyperi- cum (St. John's Wort), large yellow flowers, evergreen foliage, creeping, 4/-. Iceland Poppies, Excelsior strain, 3/-. Indian Pinks, 2/8. Iris, large Flag, separate colours, white, mauve, yellow, blue, purple, 6/- ; mixed, 4/6 ; punula, for rockery, 4/-J hispanica (Poor Man's Orchid), lovely for cutting, 3/-. Isatis 1/9 100. Seakale, strong, year old roots, 15/- 100. Strong Transplanted Plants for Cool Greenhouse, etc. All per dozen, half or quarter dozen same rate. Agapanthus (blue African Lily), 6/-. Aralia (Fig Palm), 6,'-. Asparagus Fern, erect or trailing, 6/-. Begonias, evergreen, perpetual Beauty Stocks, fragrant, early, 4/-. Cannas, exhibition and stellata, 3/-. "/-. Fuchsias, choice, e Valley, 3/-. Lobelia Gladiolus, best lovely h*:brid3| B/_, Cinerarias, ex '*/-• cHhraS" Eucalyptus, 4 ,,-. Bridal Wreath, •ii 'o„„n„„.f™? 5/-. Heliotrope, 5/-. Lily of th„ ery.etc., 1,9. Harpalmm (perennial Sunflowers), cirfflnalUQueen Y ctoria.6/-. Blue, white.vellow Marguerites, "■ He™™?3'1'8- b«»>Wul hardy lil> arge 4/ white or crimson Tobacco, 3/-. Passion Flower, 8/- ;e and yellow, 6/- Heuchera sanguinea prirmi|as . obconica. new giant, lovely colours. 6'- Primulas : Obconica, new giant, lovely colours, 6/-, malacoides, showing bud, great favourite for cut bloom, 4/- ; strong seedlings, 2/- ; sinensis, all colours : kewensis, yellow ; cortusoides, bright rose ; cashmeriana, rich purple ; denticulata, large heads, lilac, pots or rockery, 4/-. Rehmannia, pink trumpet, 6/-. Salvia Scarlet Zurich, 6/- ; coccinea, 4/-. Saxifraga sarmentosa, trailing, 4/-. Smilax, trailing, 4/.. Streptocarpus, beautiful new hybrids, lovely Cape Primrose, 6/-. Strong Hardy Climbers. Ampelopsis Yeitchii, self (Woad), rare handsome border plant, 4/-. Kniphophia climbing, small leaf, large roots, several trails, each 2-. Clematis (Torch Lily), 6/-. Lavender, fragrant. Old English, sturdy. Traveller's Joy and Flammula (Virgin's Bower), white, rapid bushy, two year old, 6/-. Lily of the Valley, strong flowering climbers, large two year roots, 1/9 each. Honeysuckle, very crowns, 3/-. Linum, lovely blue Flax, 3-. Linaria dalmatica, fine red-flowering Dutch, large plants, 2/6 each. Wistaria spikes yellow, blotched orange, 3,-. Lobelia cardinalis, tall sinensis, large racemes of bluish-lilac flowers, 3/- each. Mrs. PYM, F.R.H.S., 10, Vine House, Woodston, Peterborough RELIABLE PLANTS ™GNT GREENHOUSE. — Geraniums, In large variety, ex. pots, 6» doz.: Primulas, 2,6 doz. ; Ferns, from 2 6 doz. ; Cyclamen. 2 '6 doz. ; Heliotropes, 2 6 doz. ; Begonias (double), 4,- doz. ; Gloxinias, 4- doz.; Tomato Plants (Ailsa, Krcruit, Filbasket), from 1 6 doz. HARDY. — Allwoodii, in variety, 4/- doz.; Pansies, BUperb strains. 16 doz.: Pinks, 2 6 doz.; Violas (30 best varieties), 1 6 doz.; Hardy Perennials, in great variety, from 2,6 doz. ALL Carriage Paid. Send for List. Fnarwood pontefract. H. H. MAW & SON, rV urseries, FROM ONE GARDEN LOVER TO ANOTHER /SATISFACTJoiN GUARANTEED OR MONEY RETURN E!D Catalogue Post Free Write us Now GARDEN SUPPLIES LTD. (Boundary Chemical Co.) CRANMER ST. LIVERPOOL Solicit iiour Enquiries WHEN YOU WANT A GOOD THING FOR YOUR GARDEN In Roses, Bulbs. Shrubs, Plants, Seeds, Fruit Trees, Manures, Weed or Pest Killers, Lawn Seed, Lawn Improvers, Ac. March 3, 1923. THE GARDEN. VII. ROLLS-ROYCE QUALITY. Artindale's Hardy Plants WITH WONDROUS FIBROUS ROOTS. SATISFACTION EVERY TIME. We have no unsatisfied customer. Our prices are fixed as low as possible. We will willingly refund purchase money and cost of returned plants if you are not pleased. We make this offer because this will not occur. Carriage Paid on Orders of 10/- and upwards. ACHILLEA, Sparkes' Variety, yellow. 3ft, 9d. each, ACONITUM, Wilson's Variety, blue. 4ft. 9d. each. ACTEA japonica, creamy white. 4ft, 9d. each. ALSTROMERIA auriantica, orange red. 2ft, 9d. each. ANCHUSA, Dropmore Variety, deep blue. 4ft. 9d. ea'h — Opal, pale blue. 4ft. 9d. each. — Pride of Dover, large pale blue. 4ft. 9d. each. — myosotidiflora, Forget-me-not-like flowers, deep blue. 1ft. 9d. each. ARIVtERIA, Bees' Ruby, rosy carmine, ljft. 1/- each. ANEMONE japonica, white. 2ft. 9d. each. ASTER (Michaelmas Daisies). — Amellus Beaute Parfait, dark blue. 2ft. 9d. each. — bessarabicus, deep blue. 2ft. 9d. each. — Beauty of Colwall, double lavender. 4ft. 9d. each. — Climax, lavender blue, finest single var. 5ft. 9d. each. — King of the Belgians, lavender, semi-double. 5ft. 9d. ea. — Lil Fardell, beautiful rose. 4ft. 9d. each. CAMPANULA Moerheimi, double white. 2ft. 9d. each. — glomerata superba, deep violet. 1ft, 9d. each. CHRYSANTHEMUM MAXIMUM (Moon Daisies). — — Kenneth, Fimbriata petals. 2ft. 9d. each. Mayfleld Qiant. 2Jft, 9d. each. — — Robin Hood. 2Jft. 9d. each. — — Mrs. F. W. Daniels. 2ft, 9d. each. CIMICIFUQA racemosa, white. 4ft, 9d. each. DELPHINIUM Andrew Carnegie, sky blue. 1 6 each. — Lize Van Veen, Cambridge blue. 1/6 each. — Mrs. H. Kaye, deep indigo blue. 3/6 each. — Mrs. A. J. Watson, deep mauve. 3/6 each. — Moerheimi, white. 1/6 each. — Rev. E. Lascelles, royal blue, white eye. 1/6 each. — Yvette Quilbert, pure light blue. 1 6 each. — Zuster Luc tens, darkest blue. 1,6 each. EREMURUS robutus. 6ft. 5/- each. — Bungei, yellow. 3ft. 5/- each. — himalaicus, white. 5/- each. ERIQERON Asa Gray, orange. 1ft. 9d. each. — B. Ladhams. pale pink. 2ft. 9d. each. — Quakeress, lavender blue. 2ft. 9d. each. — Mesa Grande, lavender purple, ljft, 9d. each. ERYNGIUM Oliverianum. 3ft, 9d. each. QALEGA Hartlandi, pale lilac. 4ft. 9d. each. GEUM Mrs. Bradshaw, scarlet. I {it. 9d. each. GYPSOPHILA paniculata. Single. 3ft. 9d. each. Double. 3ft. 1 6 each. HELENIUM pumilum magnificum, soft yellow. 2ft. 9d. each. — Riverton Gem, old gold, suff. terra cotta. 4ft, 9d. each. — Riverton Beauty, rch lemon yellow, purplish black cone. 4ft. 9d. each. HELIANTHUS Soleil d'Or, double yellow. 4ft. 9d. each. — sparcifolius, immense rich single golden yellow (syn. Monarch). 6ft, 1/6 each. HELLEBORUS (Christmas Rose) precox, white. 1/6 each. — niger, white. 1/6 each. HEUCHERA Pluie de Feu, fiery red. 2ft. 9d. each. — Edge Hall, pale pink. 2ft, 9d. each. INCARVILLEA Delavayi. rose. I '.n 9d. each IRIS (Flag Leaf) Lord of June, lavender blue. 3ft, 1/6 ea. — Empress of India, beautiful light blue. 2{it. 1/6 each. — gigantea, yellow. 4ft, 9d. each. — Mrs. A. Gray, beautiful lilac. 2ft, LYCHNIS chalcedonica. scarlet. 2ft. LYTHRUM roseum superbum. 3ft P/EONIES. — All the finest varieties. the 12 best sorts. 18/- dozen. PAPAVER orientate (Giant Oriental Poppies) and newest varieties. 9d. each. — nudicaule (Giant Iceland Poppies), red, yellow, and white. 6/- dozen. PHLOX DECUSSATA Arthur Ranc, salmon, 9d. each. Baron Van Dedem, scarlet blood-red. 9d. each. — Border Queen, rose pink, white centre. 9d. each. — Caran d'Ache, salmon rose. 9d. each. — Coquelicot, orange scarlet. 9d. each. — Dr. Konigshofer, orange scarlet. 9d. each. Elizabeth Campbell, light salmon. 9d. each. - Flora Hornung, white, carmine edge. 9d. each. — Frau A. Buchner, white. 9d. each. — G. A. Strohlein, fiery orange scarlet, blood-red eye. 9d. each. — General Van Heutz, salmon red. 9d. each. — Henry Regnault, carmine rose. 9d. each. - — Iris, purple blue. 9d. each. Oxara, pink. 9d. each. Selma, large pink, cherry-red eye. 9d. each. PYRETHRUMS, Double and Single varieties. We have the largest and most complete collection in the country. Strong plants. 9d. each; 8/- dozen. RANUNCULUS aconitifolius fl. pi. 1/- each. SCABIOSA caucasica. 9d. each. SOLIDAGO (Golden Rod). 9d. each. STATICE incana (Sea Lavender). 9d. each. TRITOMA (Red-hot Poker). 1/- each. TROLLIUS (Golden Balls) Goldquelle. 1 6 each. — Orange Globe. 9d. each. VERBASCUM vernale. 9d. each. , Artindale's Beautiful Hardy Flowers suitable for every garden. Write for Illustrated Catalogue, Post Free. W. ARTINDALE & SON, NETHER GREEN, SHEFFIELD. 9d. each. 9d. each. 9d. each. Our Al Collection of Ail the finest SEEDS IF YOU WANT Really Good Seeds AT MODERATE PRICES SEND TO ROBERT SYDENHAM LIMITED 99, TENBY STREET, BIRMINGHAM No one will serve you better. A FEW PRICES FOR 1923. BEET. Cheltenham Green Leaf, best for flavour Dell's Black Leaved, smooth, medium-sized Early Model Globe, best round variety . BORECOLE. Cottager's one of the hardiest Dwarf Green Curled Scotch Asparagus, delicious flavour BROCCOLI. Veitch's Self- Protecting Autumn Snow's Winter White Spring White, very hardy .. Late Queen, the best late Purple Sprouting, most useful hardy sort White Sprouting, delicious flavour BRUSSELS SPROUTS The Wroxton, the very best Darlington, dwarf, robust, very productive CABBAGE. Ellam's Dwarf Spring First and Best, best for autumn sowing Blood Red Pickling, large solid heads .. Drumhead (Savoy), best for general crop CARROT. Early Nantes, for early crop James' Scarlet, best selected Scarlet Intermediate, best for exhibition CAULIFLOWER. Dean's Early Snowball, selected strain . . All the Year Round, very distinct, large heads Early London, best for general use Veitoh's Autumn Giant, best for autumn CELERY. All Leading Varieties LEEK. The Lyon , best and largest Musselburgh, for general use LETTUCE. All the Year Round, excellent and reliable Wonderful, keeps tender a long time Tom Thumb Giant Paris White (Cos), best summer . . Balloon (Cos), largest of all ONION. Excelsior true (packets of 750 seeds) Ailsa Craig (packets of 750 seeds) White Spanish or Reading Bedfordshire Champion James' Keeping best for long keeping . . Giant Zittau, one of the best keepers Giant White Tripoli, best flat white Onion PARSNIP. Hollow Crown, specially selected SPINACH. Summer or Winter . . Per oz. pkt .. 8d. — . . 8d. — .. Sd. .. 8d. 3d. 8d. 3d. .. 8d. 3d. .. 1/6 6(1. 2/6 4d. .. Xj- 6d. .. XI- 6d. . . 8d. 3d. .. 1/6 4d. .. 9d. 3d. .. 11- 3d. . . 1 !- 3d. 11- 3d. 1 ,'- 3d. .. 8d. 3d. .. 8d. 3d. 8d. 3d. . . 8d. 3d. Bd. — 6d. — 6d. 1,9 6d. •• - 3d. .. 1/4 3d. .. 1/- 3d. .. 8d. 2d. 9d. 2d. 9d. 2d. .. 8d. 2d. . . 9d. 2d. .. XI- 6d. .. Xi- Bd. .. 11- 3d. .. 1/4 4d. .. 1/4 4(1 .. 1/4 4d. • • 1./- 3d. 3d. SHALLOTS. Best Selected Roots. per ]1>. 8d. TURNIP. Model White Stone Extra Early Milan Purple-top Qolden Ball PEAS, from 1 /- per pint AND .. 4d. 2d. . . 6d. 3d. . . 4d. 2d. BEANS, from 9d. per pint. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES AT MODERATE PRICES. See Catalogue. ALL OTHER SEEDS EQUALLY CHEAP AND GOOD. SWEET PEAS A SPECIALITY. THEIR UNIQUE LISTS Post Free on Application. BATH'S Border Carnations, FOR PRESENT PLANTING Etc. carriage paid. ROBERT SYDENHAM LIMITED. We make a great speciality of tarnations ami mn- ^tock is unequalled. The plants are very strong, perfectly hardy, an I will satisfy the most fastidious buyer. The following sets are selected from our unsurpassed collection of ^">0 varieties and contain the cream of the new and older sorts. SET No. 6. Twelve extra fine varieties for 14 Celestial— brilliant yellow self. Delight —bright pink ; grand form. Elaine— a grand white ; perfect form. Gordon Douglas — flowing crimson. Salmon Clove — rich salmon-pink ; fragrant, Rosa Bonheur — yellow, suffused crimson. Caprice — pink, mottled red. Centurion — yellow, splashed scarlet. Ariadne — bright heliotrope ; extra. My Clove — apple-blossom, shaded helio. Isolde — raspberry-red ; extra. Glow-worm — brilliant scarlet ; dwarf grower. SET No. 7. One dozen choice varieties for 10/6, carriage paid. Beau Nash -charming shade of rose. Glamour- — large yellow self. Innocence — a lovely blush-pink. Bookham Clove — bright crimson ; fragrant. Climax — buff, suffused old rose. Trojan — glistening pure white. Dignity — a lovely deep shrimp-pink. Lord Tennyson yellow, edged rose. Duchess of Wellington — deep lavender. Queen Alexandra — butf-yellow ; very free. Red Knight — bright salmon-scarlet. Santa Claus — yellow, edged purple. BATH'S POPULAR SET of 12 fine named varieties of Carnations and Picotees. Price 8/6, carriage paid. The three above Collections complete for 31/-, carriage paid BATH'S Gold Medal P/EONIES Peonies are the most gorgeous of all garden flowers. They are exceedingly hardy, and when once established require less attention than almost any other plant. Many of flic tdooim of the fodowing varieties attain a diameter of lOins, and nearly all are beautifully rose-scented. Twelve glorious richly fragrant varieties for 226, carriage paid. SET No. 3. Albert Crousse — pinkish-blush ; enormous flowers. Golden Harvest — blush, white, centre, tipped red. Duchess de Nemours — snow-white ; free. Festiva Maxima — pure white, tipped purple. Marie Lemoine — pure white ; late. Mme. Calot— white, tipped rose ; extra. Mons. C. Leveque — a lovely silvery-blush. Dainty— rosy-blush, showing golden anthers. Solfaterre— beautiful primrose- yellow. Mme. Ducet— soft salmon, with silvery shading. Victor Hugo— brilliant amaranth ; delightful colour. Reine des Francaise — outer petals rose, white centre, SET No. 4. Our selection of 12 very fine named varieties, mostly fragrant, for 15/-, carriage paid. BATHS ^ DELPHINIUMS These plants are remarkably handsome in the border, and during the early summer and autumn the bold and stately masses of brilliant blue and purple produce a striking effect unequalled by any other flower. SET No. 2. One doz. extra fine varieties for 21'-, any 6 for If/*-, carriage paid. Arnold Bocklin — brilliant gentian-blue. C. W. Matthes — rich pure blue : light and dark stamens. La Tendresse — light blue and mauve. Willy O'Brien — pure cornflower-blue, mauve centre. Turquoise —pure Cambridge-blue, dark eye. Rozenlust— light mauve, edged Cambridge-blue. King of Delphiniums — gentian-blue and plum. wliHc .eye. The Alake— intense dark blue, violet centre. Zuster Liiglen — pure Cambridge blue, silvery shade. Roselare— cornflower-blue, tinted ageratum-blue. K. T. Caron— gentian-blue, suffused mauve. Ida R. Elliott— dark cobalt-blue, amethyst centre. BATH'S POPULAR SET of 12 fine named varieties Delphiniums for 10/6, carriage paid. Complete Illustrated Catalogues post free on application. R. H. BATH, Ltd. THE FLORAL FARMS, WISBECH. \-ni THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923. mm By Appointment. WEBBS' SEED POTATOES Awarded the National Potato Society's Gold Medals in 1922-21-20-19. Gold Medal Exhibit of Webbs' Potatoes at the N.P.S. Show, Sheffield, 1922. WEBBS' COLONIST.— First early Kidney. Im- mensely popular. 71b., 2,9; 141b., 5-; 281b., 9 6 ; 561b., 18;-. WEBBS' GUARDIAN. — Second early Kidney. Good cropper, choice quality. 7lb., 2/- ; 14lb., 3 6 ; 281b., 6/6 ; 561b., 12 -. WEBBS' PROSPERITY.— Main crop. Excellent cropper. Splendid tlayour. 71b., 2/3 j 1411.., 4,-j 281b., 7 6 ; 561b., 14,'-. DI-VERNON (Immune)..— Second early Kidney, purple eyes. 4 6 per lb. ; 2lb.. 8 -. WEBBS' EXPRESS.— First early Kidney. Hislilv recommended. 7lb., 2,3; 141b., 4-; 281b., 7 6; 561b., 14 -. WEBBS' RENOWN.— The excellent new main crop lor 1923. 71b.. 3 6; 141b., 6/-: 281b., 116; 561b., 22 -. WEBBS' MAGNUM BONUM (Regenerated Stock). Main crop. 71b.. 2,9; 141b., 5'-; 281b.. 9 6; 561b.. 18.-. KATIE GLOVER (Immune). — Second early, pebble- shaped, carmine blush eyes. 21b., 3,6. WEBBS' SPECIAL POTATO MANURE.— Manufactured at Webbs' Manure Works, Saltney, Chester (6 acres in extent). 141b., 5,-; 281b., 9/- j 56lb., 16/- ; 1121b., 28/-. ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE OF SEEDS, POTATOES, FERTILISERS, ETC., POST FREE. WEBB & SONS, LTD., STOURBRIDGE. f _ j^^ TJ^5 ^^r )y\ Notes from Maidstone. SINGLE ROSES. ^rVz 7 he interesting note of NAV these charming flowers in January 6th issue reminded us that we can offer a good selection, and should specially recommend the II II following varieties : Cxs) Irish Elegance, r V Irish Glory, Princess Mary, Sheila Wilson, Isobel, Glow-worm and JmC Simplicity. /TSfYs These are all i/6 each, except Cupid, 2/-, and Mermaid, i /6. George Bunyard & Co., Ltd., U )) The Royal Nurseries, ^Cv\ Maidstone. PAUSE TO CONSIDER THIS SPECIAL OFFER OF CHOICE ALPINES. Then order for Spring delivery the following plants from pots : — 6AXIFRAQA IRVINQII, the best pink Kabschia. ONOSMA ALBO-ROSEUM, rosy white. 8AXIFRAQA KELLERII, early pink and white spikes, 6 inches. PRIMULA INTEQR1FOLIA, collected plants; a fine range of colours — pale to darker pink and mauve. MTHOSPERMUM ROSEMAR IN IFOL lUM , a charming blue, 1 foot high. RANUNCULUS QLACIALIS, 9 inch ; collected plants, but established. DIANTHUS ALPINUS. SAXIFRAQA BURSERIANA SULPHUREA, pale primrose, very free. RAMONDIA PYRENAICA, for shady places, mauve. CAMPANULA WALDSTEINIANA, deep mauve, 4 inches liigh. QENT1ANA FARRERI, a gem for morrauie ; pale blue ; from China. ERYTHRAEA MASSONII (the pink Gentian); soft pink, 3 inches. Carriage paid, for cash with order, for 17/6. GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST, KENT. WATERER'S GREAT SIXPENNY Clearance Sale OF ONE MILLION Hardy Perennial & Alpine Plants For the Border, Rock Garden, Streamside, Woodland, Wild Garden, Shrubbery, etc., including 50,000 DELPHINIUMS at greatly reduced rates, all to flower this year. Descriptive Sale Catalogue on application. JOHN WATERER, SONS & CRISP, Ltd., (Dept. G), TWYFORD, BERKS. You Owe It To Yourself. Send a post card to-day for an absolutely Free Copy of our beautifully illustrated " GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM & GUARANTEED GARDEN SEEDS," and have a better Garden than ever before, and at less cost. Vegetables of much more delicious flavours to share and to spare all the year round ; and flower-, a perennially gay display, rivalling in charm the Garden nf your dreams. Every packet of Seeds, too, ordered thence must grow for you and please vou, or yon will get it REPLACED FREELY. Just address us personally to-day : T00G00D & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.U. The King, and Growers of "Better Crops" Seeds only, SOUTHAMPTON. No. 2676.— Vol. LXXXVIL] [March 3, 1923. LILY PICTURES IN THE GARDEN THERE are some garden pictures that one never forgets ! It is years ago now that I left a grey old West Country house and crossed the smooth, closely mown lawns sloping gently to the banks of a gurgling brook, that gave the limit to the garden and the beginning to the wild. It was spanned by a bridge, if an affair of rough planks can be dignified by a name that conveys an idea of something so much more elaborate. Beyond it a brown track wended its way through odorous stretches of wild Mint towards an opening in the thin woodland that skirted the banks of the stream, offering a note of invitation to the unknown beyond. It was late in the day, and the boles of the trees rose dark against the western sky, aglow with the warm colour of an early autumn sunset. Stretching westwards from this opening was a long glade that had evidently been cleared by some garden- lover endowed with that prophetic vision that is essential to success in all garden developments. It was not too early in the year for a few leaves to rustle slowly earthwards, and stray patches of bracken had already begun to take on that golden tint that pre- cedes the ruddy brown of later days. Here and there throughout the clearing broad masses of Azaleas had been planted, and their foliage was now ripening to its fall. In early summer their wealth of colour had taken sole possession of the scene, but now, even that enchantment was rivalled by a climax of colour that seemed to glow inYsympathy with the glory of the sunset. Other vegetation there was, the dying purple of heather, the brown-red tints of Andromedas, the dropping fire of Maples, scattered masses of Loose- strife and Willow Herb along the woodland fringes, with a few purple flowers still straying among the warm browns of the ripened foliage, and somewhere in the shadows glowed radiantly some berried plant, Spindle Wood, perhaps. But the glory of the picture was not all in the riot of autumn-tinted foliage, nor in the deep- ening shadows of the woodland, that enclosed the scene on two sides, nor in the ever-changing wonder of the western sky, but in all these, and the gorgeous masses of Tiger Lilies that lifted their orange splendour at irregular intervals throughout the picture. On through the glade the vision swept, and because the land beyond it fell away from sight, it seemed that the sombre track led on through the crimson, orange, auburn, sepia, purple and brown straight towards the iridescent sunset glow. As I looked the light passed slowly from the earth, the purples in the woodland deepened to darkness, and where but a short while ago all was rich colour and radiant light, now the scene was THE SPLENDID ROYAL LILY, LILIUM REGALE, L. WILLMOTTI.?E. one of shadowy indefinite forms. And it was well, for in that moment this garden effort had achieved its climax. In that moment Nature and garden art had united in one grand triumph, and never has mind of man reached a higher and fuller conception of garden beauty than in that Orange Lily garden. This is but one of many lily pictures, and with them all there is an indefinable charm that apper- tains to no other flower in the garden. For there is in the Lily itself a sort of regal atmosphere of enchantment that separates it from all other flowers, whether it be the white purity of the Madonna, the orange splendour of the Tiger, the bloody wonder of the Scarlet Turncap, or the pearty delicacy of the Regal Lilies; all breathe a sweet freshness into the garden that they adorn that lifts them to an altitude far above their fellows. " Lilies, the daughters of the dawn, Folded in hoods of silver lawn And shod with dim leaves green and grey ; " Why, all through the ages it would seem that there has been a custom to call any flower that possessed attrac- tions out of the common, " Lily," until the common names of many flowers without the slightest claim of relation to the genus, are known as something- or-other Lily, as though in this genus floral evolution has reached its limit of progress, and sets the standard for the world of flowers. The pictures that can be created in the garden with Lilies are many, and the positions in which they can be grown successfully as numerous. But of all these none offers the charm of association that is obtained by growing them in a setting of foliage of shrubs or trees, in those parts of the garden that form the link between the imperative formality of the garden near the house, and the wilder beauty of nature beyond the garden boundaries. Woodland walks, where in the half shade many varieties love to grow, and where the falling leaves have from year to year enriched the soil and rendered it light and open, is an ideal place for them. Planted among Azaleas and Rhododen- drons they are particularly happy because the soil that suits the one is 102 THE GARDEN [March 3, 1923. exactly what the other loves. Nothing could provide a more thrilh'ngly beautiful picture than 1 in. 1 1 1 the easily grown Liliuni regale pi. mini in such a position. Flowering in July it nils in a gap after the earlier Rhododendrons are over, and indeed there are few that are planted in the average garden that are not over long before this period. Y'ear by year the bulbs are getting more plentiful, and it is highly probable that if there had been no Great War, this would have been nf the best known, and most frequently cultivated Lilies in the garden by this time. For one thing it is easily raised from seed, and often flowers in the second year, and certainly in the third year from sowing. Perhaps the greatest charm of the (lower lies in the pearly texture and the beautiful pink tint that creeps through the white, owing to its being externally coloured with a gradually diminishing shade of red-brown, which shews through its translucent segments. Another Lily that is essentially for woodland planting is the towering Himalayan Lily, L. giganteum. The great mistake in planting this Lily, that is made annually by the impatient, is the using of Very large bulbs, and it makes some enormous ones, too. Large bulbs make growth freely enough in the earlier stages, but do not make a corresponding quantity of root wherewith to sustain such luxuriant growth, and in consequence, unless conditions are exceptionally favourable, one finds them reaching a height of several feet in a very short space of time, and then ceasing to grow, finally collapsing in ignominous failure to sustain their early promise. Planted, however, in moderate or even small-sized bulbs, among shrub- berries, or on the fringes of woodland, where the soil is well drained, but not dry, they possess no attributes that make them difficult oi cultivation, but many that make them highly desirable. It is a far cry from the giant just mentioned, with its 12ft. to 14ft. of majestic stature and numerous flowers, to the delicate little pink rubellum. Delicate in colour only by the way, as it is one of those that naturalise well under reasonably favourable conditions, and its fragrant rose-pink flowers seen rising from the young fronds of ferns, in their soft green tints during May are indeed a revelation of pure beauty. Ferns and Likes ! is there any combination that offers so subtle a suggestion of garden delight ? I wish I could say that the beautiful L. Krameri was as persistent as rubellum. They resemble each other, although Krameri is much the better flower of the two, but it cannot be regarded as so permanent a planting. Plenty of sand in the soil appears to be the secret of growing it well, and I remember a box of bulbs that had been bedded in pure sand to keep them firm for late planting, and was over- looked. The result was a box full of really fine blooms. As I am writing solely of Lilies for the outdoor garden, it is not necessary to notice such sorts as sulphureum, nepalense, neilgherrense, and other varieties that are not for the garden picture maker, but in at least one case the influence on outdoor Lilies has been felt. Sulphureum crossed with regale has produced some really remarkable results. The yellow interior of regale has been intensified, the long flower of sulphureum has been introduced into regale, height has been increased, and all the charm of regale remains emphasised and intensified in a race that flowers several weeks later, and has a remarkably robust constitution. Of the remaining Lilies suitable for woodland planting, some in the more open portions, others in the more shady, are the auratums, of which L. auratum platyphyllum is by far the noblest, the most robust and in every way the best. Given a fair chance in an open peaty root-run, where its roots are partially shaded by overhanging vegeta- tion, it will produce magnificent stems that carry enormous flowers. Like all the auratum- it- pungent, overpowering odour renders it a little too voluptuous for the small room indoors, but breathing its redolent perfume on the atmosphere of an August evening is a pure sensual delight. I have already mentioned the wonders of the Tiger Lilies in such conditions, and the best of them is, of course, L. Fortunei giganteum. It is in every way the tallest and most imposing of the group, and I have known it succeed for periods that have seen the disappearance of the speciosum group under the same conditions. It must not, however, be inferred from this that the speciosums are difficult to grow in the average garden. Far from it ! they are, indeed, among the most successful. Of the coloured forms melpomene and magnificum are the best, although the ordinary form, roseum, can be relied upon to produce some wonderful flowers. Of the whites, speciosum album Kraetzeri is the best all-round variety for garden purposes. Space forbids dwelling on the Martagon group although the English garden without its Martagon Lilies is an incomplete thing, and they succeed almost anywhere. The white form is beautiful indeed, but by no means plentiful. One of the most startling achievements of recent years is the result obtained at Sutton Court by the crossing of Martagon and Hansoni. The resulting race shews an almost inconceivable variation and among them are many that appear to be more THE BEAUTIFUL TALL ORANGE LILIUM HENRYI. THE SHADE-LOVING YELLOW AND CHOCOLATE LILIUM PARRVI. March 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 103 vigorous than either parent, and with many new and delightful colour developments that will ensure for them an important place in the Lily world. Among Lilies for the border, none are more attrac- tive than L. Henryi. It is, perhaps, a little too tall to look comfortable, but there is a unique value in its rich apricot-yellow flowers and a grace of form in its curving reflexed segments that places it in a class entirely its own. Of many other garden Lilies I cannot speak now, but there are a few by their constitution fitted for the moister places in the garden, by the stream side, in damp depressions along the woodland margin, and they have therefore a value all their own. L. pardalinum is one of them, a Californian species of which there are one or two varieties, and it will spread itself freely under satisfactory conditions, which are not in any way exacting. Its orange, crimson-spotted flowers are a joy in the July bog garden. L. Parryi is another moisture- loving species which is not always easy to obtain, but when it can be grown it produces a flower of a wonderful shade of yellow spotted with warm brown. L. canadense, the Canadian bog Lily is another that desires similar conditions and thrives well under them, and its brilliant orange-red colour is unlike any other. Of many of the very old Lilies I can say nothing now. Such are the Madonna (candidum), croceum and the Yellow and Scarlet Turk's Caps. Nor can I mention . many of the new varieties, but I am writing for the ordinary garden and the ordinary purse, so it is as well that there is a limit to my space. In all this world can there be one who, loving the beautiful things around, does not love Lilies ? I believe not ! but if there is, then for that one there remains a greater joy than has hitherto fallen to his or her lot. For such coldness can only be due to lack of acquaintance with them, and with knowledge will come a full appreciation of their grace and beauty. I have only touched the fringe of all that this wonderful flower world contains, and have only indicated a fraction of the garden pictures of which they are capable of producing. Do you as an artist want in- spiration for the interpre- tation of pure grace and elegance of form ? as ia poet, a symbol for all that this world holds of the true and good ? as a humble worshipper at Nature's altar, the supreme satis- faction that comes from the love of her finest and noblest achievements ? as a preacher or teacher, lessons for use in everyday life ? — you can find them all in the Lily. Nor can you be in any way original in this, for poet, painter, sculptor, teacher, through- out the ages have been before you. Through- out all time, it is the flower that most consist- ently have noble men laid at the feet of beauti- ful women. George Dillistone. charmingly ruffled petals ; the upper segments are salmon pink deepening to the edge and the lower ones golden yellow veined rose. The brilliant orange Niobe must not be left out nor the exquisite Nydia. The latter is an idealised apple blossom pink — no apple blossom ever had quite so much THE INVALUABLE GLADIOLUS PLANTING-TIME has come round again for the late-flowering Gladioli. The early-flowering Colvillei and Ackermannii varieties are, of course, best planted about November and given protection in severe weather. It is therefore of the late- flowering varieties I purpose to write to-day. The Gladiolus, at any rate in its best types, has a beauty of form and of colouring second only to that of the Lily. Its value in the garden scheme is thus at once apparent, but it has the advantage of being available for situations where no Lily would succeed. Since the corms only remain in the ground for a few months, there is no need to worry as to what may happen to the bed or border in winter-time. Neither flood nor vermin outdoors will disturb the Gladiolus, then safely stored away in a cool but frost-free place. The Gladiolus likes a rich soil, but dislikes rank, unrotted manure. The land should be deeply worked, and if rather on the stiff side so much the better. It must be in good working condition at planting-time — it is better to wait a few weeks than to plant in soddened or lumpy ground. It is certainly wise to surround the corms with coarse sharp sand — very coarse silver sand is good. Mulching in dry weather and, when the spikes are developing, soakings of fairly weak liquid manure are beneficial. The large-flowered Childsii hybrids are cheap to buy and excellent for massing in the herbaceous border. The same may be said of the brilliant scarlet G. brenchleyensis, which may also be used effectively in the wild garden. This is very effective when planted so that its spikes contrast with the greenish ivory bells of Galtonia candicans. A selection of cheap large-flowered sorts would include Halley, ruddy orange, blotched yellow : Mrs. Frances King, bright salmon pink ; Panama. deep rose, very large ; Peace, a fine white'; Princeps, scarlet, rather early ; Baron J. Hulot, violet ; America, soft lilac rose ; Niagara, nankeen yellow, striped soft lilac ; Glory of Holland, pure white ; and Empress of India, darkest maroon. Effective as such varieties are when massed, some of the beauty of the individual spikes must necessarily be lost where more than half a dozen or so are grown together. The choicer and more elegant varieties certainly look best when grown in groups small enough for the carriage of the individual plants to be observed. This particu- larly applies to the graceful primulinus hybrids. In this (primulinus) section are to be found the most beautiful Gladioli yet in existence — exquisite in form, glorious in colouring, coyly gracious — altogether charming. Numbers of beautiful varie- ties have been described in The Garden during the last twelve months and it is difficult to select a best dozen, but, taking price into consideration, the following twelve would be hard to beat. Unsurpassable is a tall variety with large wide- petalled flowers not inaptly described as of Caroline Testout colouring, i.e., bright pink, shaded silvery white, but the colour is cleaner than in the well known Rose. Alice Tiplady is " everyone's favour- ite." The blossoms and spikes are shapely and the colouring is orange-saffron. The best yellow to date is probably Butter Boy, but until it becomes cheaper, either Anita or Canopus will give pleasure ; both are delightful. We cannot omit Linton, with GLADIOLUS UNSURPASSABLE. OF CAROLINE TESTOUT COLOURING. salmon shading — and of beautiful form. For its dazzling colour Scarletta must be included ; the flowers are scarlet outside and fiery cinnabar within, a brilliant and remarkable variety. Wood- cote, one of the fine varieties raised by Major Churcher, is perhaps the best primulinus hybrid raised in Britain ; it compares very favourably, in fact, with any in commerce. The colour is coral scarlet with a soft yellow blotch on the lower segments, and the shape of the flowers and their arrangement on the spike is all but ideal. At 2S. per corm or less most of us may aspire to grow this gem. Orange Brilliant is a small-flowered orange variety, very graceful and admirable for cut flower and quite cheap. Another variety by the same raiser (Grullemans) and also cheap shall have the tenth place. This is the soft pink Maiden's Blush. The deep yellow and orange Enon would have had earlier mention, but is slow to increase and consequently still dear. Perhaps the salmon buff Cassandra is eligible for the twelfth place in the writer's estimation, but it must be admitted that someone else might select a dozen and not include more than three or four of those mentioned, so wide is the selection available. Amateur. 104 THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1023. SOME MARSH-LOVING PRIMULAS-I IN this extensive and popular family there are several group; of species which are readily distinguished from each other by their characteristic appearance, as well as by the various conditions under which certain species are found growing. In the alpine group the majority are rock-loving plants, growing in the stony crevices and on the rocky ledges of the mountains. Others are woodland plants, which delight in shady or half-shady situations, growing in rich soil composed mostly of humus. Then we have a very large group, to which P. sibirica belongs, the members of which grow in marshy ground or where there is always plenty of moisture. They are mostly of easy cultivation when given these conditions and are readily raised from seeds, which need to be fresh, otherwise they take a long time to germinate. During the last few years many new Primulas have been introduced from Western China and the borders of Tibet. Among these are some which are closely allied to the older and better- known Siberian Primula, and which will flourish under the same conditions. Some of these are mentioned below. There are others which are not closely allied to P. sibirica, but which enjoy similar conditions under cultivation. These will be dealt with later. P. sibirica has a very wide distribution in its various forms, occurring on all the Himalayan range from Western Tibet to China, and through North and Central Asia from Europe to North Primula sibirica and its Allies. and Arctic America. It is a slender-growing plant with a tuft of long stalked leaves from which the flower-stalk is produced. This varies in height according to conditions from a few inches to ift., and bears, usually, an umbel of rosy pink flowers in May. The type comes from Siberia, and has been in cultivation since the beginning of last century. P. Wardii, here illustrated, is a later intro- duction from the marshes of Western Szechuan and the Tibetian frontier, being found by Wilson in Ta chien-lu in 1903 at an elevation of from 9,000ft. to 13,000ft. It was exhibited at the Temple Show of the Royal Horticultural Society in 1907 as P. sibirica var. chinensis. More recently found and sent home by Forrest and Ward, it has turned out to be a most desirable plant. It differs chiefly from P. sibirica in its bigger mauve or rosy pink flowers and in the larger involucral bracts at the base of the umbel. Of robust habit, it grows from gins, to ift. high, and is very free- flowering, producing its blossoms in May. P. conspersa is also a recent introduction from Western Kansu, where it grows at an elevation of 8,000ft. to 9,000ft., and was found by Farrer and Purdom in 1915. It is a rather weaker- growing plant than the above, producing quite a mat of its tufted green leaves, from which slender stems arise to the height of ift. or more. The rich lilac flowers are borne in whorls, two or more on the same flower-stalk, according to the strength of the plant. In this countrv it flowers in April. P. tibetica, also illustrated, is a native of the Himalayas on the borders of Tibet. It was originally found by Sir J. Hooker on the Sikkim frontier of Tibet some seventy years ago. Its introduction we owe to Mr. A. K. Bulley. whose collector, Mr. Cooper, found it in Bhutan in the Eastern Himalayas and sent seeds home in 1915. It is a high alpine species, growing at an elevation of 16,000ft. to 17,000ft. Closely allied to P. sibirica, it differs in having a shorter scape, while the pedicels bearing the individual flowers are very long. It is a charming little plant with its rose-coloured flowers having a yellow eye. P. Loczn is another little plant from Kansu. It is more closely allied to P. farinosa, and is characterised by having runners which produce offsets like a Strawberry. The leaves are covered with meal as in P. farinosa, while the flowers are of a pale lilac colour, borne in umbels on a stalk a few inches high. P. involucrata. — This is a well known Himalayan plant which has been in cultivation for nearly eighty years. It is a good perennial, which increases freely when planted in a moist situation where water is within reach of the roots. In early spring the flowers are produced on slender stems 6ins. to ains. high. These flowers -vary in colour from creamy white to pale blue, although the latter shade is rarer than the white. This species is readily increased by division in early spring or late autumn. One of the synonyms by which this plant is known is P. Munroi. YV, I. m LIKE A VERY^FINE P. SIBIRICA, PRIMULA WARDII. THE ROSE-COLOURED P. TIBETICA. March 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 105 THE HERBACEOUS LUPIN T have, HE plants about which these notes will be written are listed in nurserymen's catalogues under Lupinus polyphyllus, but is perhaps safer simply to call them herbaceous Lupins, for many of them we know, " blood " of L. arboreus, and THREE TYPICAL HERBACEOUS LUPINS. there is every reason to suppose that other species have been pressed into service to produce the wide range of colouring which now exists. Indeed, we have heard it said — but perhaps it is better to let such parentage problems rest. As there are no patent rights in plant production, the raiser's only resource is to " keep his mouth shut." Not so many years ago the Lupin was a rather neglected herbaceous plant ; indeed, it was worse than neglected — for, owing to changing fashion, extremely worthy plants become neglected — it was despised. The colourings then commonly seen were a dismal purplish blue and an even more dismal dirty white. True, even in those days a rich deep blue almost devoid of purple was in existence and a moderately pure white, but they were rarely seen. Then, from more than one source, pink varieties made their appear- ance and created something of a sensation. The break in colour aroused interest in the plant, and to-day we are on the threshold of a Lupin " boom," if, indeed, it has not set in. From a delicate creamy mauve to the strongest and richest blue-purple and from an equally faint blue to a deep rich " navy " practically devoid of red runs the colour range in blue tones, embracing shades almost as vivid as the " electric " blues which a few years ago were fashionable for feminine wear. The original rosy pink tones will probably be familiar to all readers. They are very pleasing when the blossoms first expand, but as the flowers go over the spike takes on a very unpleasing bluish tone. In some of the newer varieties this failing has been largely overcome ; s o in u c h progress has, i n d e e d, been made as to warrant hope that this disagree- able fading colour may be entirely eliminated. Much deeper pinks have recently been produced ; indeed, the variety Downer's Delight is much more strawberry red than pink, a colour, in fact, which would be useful in some places but is not an easy colour to combine with others. Besides these deep pinks there is now a new series, of which the colouring is a combination of pink and buff or pink and yellow. Pure white varieties are now plentiful, so that in a long herbaceous " colour border " it is possible to use Lupins to provide early summer colour in every section. Individual tastes, too, can easily be suited. For those who like pastel shades they are there in plenty, while lovers of really robust colouring will find little lack. Messrs. Clarence Elliott shewed last year at the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall a very great variety of colouring fragrant. Fragrance is a beautiful strain with a which was noticeably very desirable attribute of any flower, and this strain well deserved the award of merit bestowed upon it. Messrs. Kelway and Son of Langport were one of the pioneer firms with this useful and beautiful flower, and some of their named varieties are exceedingly attractive. Mr. Geo. Downer of Chichester has a strain which every season seems to produce new and distinct varieties. Messrs. Harkness and Sons of Bedale also have their special strains. Their great speciality is in the yellow-pink and buff forms, to which refer- ence has been made. In addition to the firms mentioned a number of Continental nurserymen are, and have been, working upon this flower, so that further great advances may be confidently expected. The Lupin, though thong-rooted, is fairly easy to propagate by division. It is, of course, of the easiest culture from seeds, but there is with some of the newer shades small likelihood of the plants coming true to colour. Any decent garden soil suits these accommodating plants, which seem equally at home in herbaceous border or in the wild. They flower at the same time as the tall June-flowering Bearded Irises, and with their present range of colouring are exceedingly useful for associating with these gorgeous and very fashionable flowers. There is, however, no particular reason why the Lupin should always " play second fiddle " to the Iris. The plant is not wanting in dignity. It is not very tall certainly, but it holds itself erect. The self-coloured forms when massed give a solid effect of colour which few Bearded Irise> could approach. (Not all Bearded Irises flower like Caterina, for example, or a different tale might be told.) The value of Lupins in the semi- wild garden was demonstrated by the pictures published last year in The Garden (July i, page 315) of semi-wild gardening at Cator Court, Devon. There they are associated very effectively with the single white form of the Rocket (Hesperis matronalis). Especially if restricted to one colour, or one colour and white, the Lupin is admirable for massing on the edge of woodland. It looks almost as " at home " and natural there a= the Broom or wild Mallow. Some of the very pleasing soft lavender shades are perhaps best for such groupings, but the pink strains are unexception- able also. When all is said, the list of hardy June-flowering plants is not a long one, and no garden to-day can afford to be without these herbaceous Lupins. LUPINS IN THE BORDER. 106 THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923. PERPETUAL-FLOWERING PINKS ONE of the great achievements of the modern hybridist is to extend I the flowering season of a number of the most popular flowers. A decade ago the Rose was practically a summer- flowering garden plant. Now its blossoming period extends to a time when winter puts an end to all outdoor flowering. The average person is apt to regard the Pink ns a summer flower with a very limited blooming period. The white variety Mrs. Sinkins is very familiar, but apart from its fragrance, its splendid habit and the decorative value'of its fine, glaucous foliage in winter, it has little^else to recommend It. It is a ragged-looking flower and nearly always DIANTHUS HERBERTII MAY QUEEN. bursts its calyx when opening. It has a very short blossoming period. This latter failing is the chief drawback of the Laced and Self Border Pinks. They are for such a long period flowerless plants. Some years ago Mr. C. H. Herbert succeeded in raising a new type with an extended blooming period. By crossing two of the Laced Pinks, Arthur Brown and Robert Haulgrave, the former with purple lacing and the latter with red, he produced a variety which he aptly named Progress. The Pioneer of the New Race. This new variety was of lovely rosy mauve colouring. It was a flower of perfect form and had a non-splitting calyx. The plant had a vigorous constitution and the flowers were carried on strong stems so that no staking was necessary; Since then many new and more beautiful varieties have been evolved. There are many new colours already in commerce, several of them now at a popular price. All are of easy culture, and they are readily propagated by means of layers or cuttings. A Selection. The following are likely to become the most popular : Model has flowers faultless in form, the edges being as if dressed. It is a soft rosy pink with a deep red base, and apart from its exquisite shape it is very tree-flowering. Queen Mary is another rosy pink of different form. The edges of the petals are not quite as cleanly cut as those of Model, but they are not far from the ideal. A deep crimson colour is at the base of the petals, and this gives the flower a rich and telling appear- ance. The calyx is very strong and, what is also important from a decora- tive point of view, the blooms can be cut with stems from ijins. to iSins. in length. Mrs. G. Walker is a bright pink with a dark rosy red base. It has a splendid con- stitution, and it is re- markable for its floriferous character. It is very highly perfumed. Victory is a deep ruby crimson quite unique in colour. It is also very free flowering, has the clove fragrance very pro- nounced and is a good doer. These four varieties have all received an award of merit. Three other kinds that have been much admired at the shows during the past year are Sweet Nell, a soft rose with a deep red centre ; Gertrude, a finely formed rosy mauve with a purple base; and The Imp, a dark crimson self. The remaining standard varieties include Dickie Felton, salmon pink with crimson base; Comedy, rosy mauve; May Queen, bright pink ; Simplicity, cherry red ; Imperial, a brilliant crimson-scarlet of dwarf habit ; and Ruby, of the same character and a colour described in the name. Some Novelties. Notable new creations include Bridesmaid, a magnificent flower of salmon blush colouring with a deeper centre ; Lord Lambourne, a distinct shade of deep rose; and Red Indian, another unique colour, a pretty shade of old rose. All these received the award of merit at the Chelsea Show of 1922. A sensational colour break has occurred in the newer varieties in the form of an orange scarlet self of vivid hue. It has been named Fire King, and promises to be one of the finest Pinks that has so far been produced. Every up-to-date flower-lover should try some of these splendidly free and continuously blooming fragrant hardy flowers. Norman Lambert. SMALL - GROWING SHRUBS IT is a very common mistake to plant trees and shrubs in gardens without due con- sideration being given to the character of the shrubs when they become fully grown and the general effect they will have then. In my youth I saw old experienced gardeners making this mistake. It had been a failing with their forebears, too, and it is still in evidence. To digress just a little. How many otherwise charming carriage drives and main pleasure paths are spoiled through the too-close planting of trees and shrubs to them ? Thousands of finely grown trees — mainly evergreen — have been spoiled through being cut back indiscriminately to prevent the closing-up of the passage between them. I have recently inspected a number of villa gardens in and near to a beautiful town. Quite 90 per cent, of those gardens contained shrubs too large for them. Many shrubs had been hacked about to enable the owners and their visitors to pass by them. Their general appearance had become unsightly, many were quite out of character and others were dying. In large gardens it is absolutely necessary' to " fill in " with temporary shrubs and trees ; in small ones it may be advisable to plant, temporarily, certain shrubs. But those specimens intended to remain permanently should always be planted with due consideration as to their ultimate size, so that there may be full development consistent with the space available, and that the natural beauty of each may be seen to the best advantage. If there is only room for a dozen shrubs, win- plant two dozen, unless it is intended that the surplus ones shall be -removed in due course ? Unfortunately, there is much reluctance to part with them and they are left until they cause damage to the choice specimens. Some Deciduous Flowering Shrubs. — The following are suitable for small gardens where they may grow to full size without undue mutila- tion. Cydonia Maulei superba, Daphne Mezereum, Escallonia Philippiana, Forsythia suspensa, Hydrangea paniculatagrandiflora, Magnolia stellata, Philadelphus Lemoinei, Prunus japonica fiore albo pleno, Ribes sanguineum atrorubens, Robinia hispida inermis, Spirea Menziesii triumphans. Sophora viciifolia, Lilacs, Viburnum tomentosum plicatum. Deciduous Flowering Trees. — .Esculus carnea Briotii, Amelanchier canadensis, Catalpa bignoni- oides, Double-flowered Thorns (white, rose and scarlet), Laburnum alpinum, Magnolia conspicua, Prunus Amygdalus (Almond), P. Avium flore pleno (double-flowered white Cherry). Pyrus Aria majes- tica, P. floribunda atrosanguinea, and P. spectabilis flore pleno. Some Evergreen Flowering Shrubs. — Ber- beris stenophylla, Chiosya ternata (for sheltered borders), Kalmia latifolia, Olearia Haastii (does well in dry borders), Rhododendrons, Veronica Traversii, Viburnum Tinus (Laurustinus), Yucca gloriosa and Y. recurvifolia. Some Shrubs and Trees Bearing Fruits. — ■ Arbutus Unedo, Barberries, Thorns in variety! Euonymus europaeus, Hollies in variety, Per- nettyas in variety, Pyrus in variety, Sambucus racemosus, Skimmias and Viburnum Opulus (wild Guelder Rose). Fuchsias should be more freelv planted in small gardens, especially FF. Riccartoni, globosa and macrostemma. George Garner. March 3, 1923. THE GARDEN. 107 THE SMALL- LEAVED RHODODENDRONS Among the very many nezc Rhododendrons introduced from China during the last twenty-five years no section is more distinct and valuable than that comprising the dwarf alpine species. IN every rock garden of any extent at all dwarf shrubs can be used most effectively. If these shrubs are attractive when in flower so much the better. Quite a consider- able number of the newer dwarf - growing Rhododendrons are, therefore, admirable for the. rock garden. Another important consideration is that some of the Rhododendrons bloom rather early, and the sheltered nooks available in most rock gardens are ideal places for them. With the diminished possibilities as regards expenditure, largely increased attention is being given to the outdoor garden and particularly to the choice shrubbery. In such a shrubbery, if the soil is lime-free, Rhododendrons of comparatively dwarf growth fittingly find a place. Though the liberal heating of so many green- houses is being abandoned, their use as cold houses for the protection of early-flowering Rhodo- dendrons is deserving of attention. The taller- growing bushes can be planted out in borders and rockeries formed for the dwarf species, while some may also be cultivated in pots on the stages and moved outside in summer from, say, June until September or October. R. brachvanthum is a Yunnan species intro- duced by Mr. George Forrest in 1906. He describes it as a shrub 2ft. to 5ft. high growing on the Tali Range, West Yunnan, at 10,000ft. to 11,000ft. elevation. The oblong-lanceolate leaves are ijins. to 2iins. long and up to tin. wide. The sulphur yellow flowers are bell shaped, up to Jin. long and the largest blooms 1 in. across. The flowers are borne in terminal clusters of three to six or eight blooms, each with a large pale green calyx suggestive of R. glaucum. The flowering season is June. This is a charming plant and evidently quite hardy. R. fi.avidum is a very dainty shrub for sheltered positions in borders and the rock garden, as the flowers open during March and early April. It is a native of Western Szechuan, discovered by Soulie and named by Franchet, but for its introduction to our gardens we are indebted to Mr. E. H. Wilson. He col- lected seeds in 1904 and again in 1908, describing it as common in the alpine regions around Ta-chien-lu at an altitude THE SPLENDID WHITE FORM OF RHODODENDRON MOUPINENSE. RHODODENDRON INTRICATUM. of 10,000ft. to 12,000ft. When first exhibited by Messrs. James Veitch and Sons, Mr. Wilson's plant was named by Dr. Herasley, R. primulinum, but it was subsequently identified as the species collected by Soulie and named R. flavidum. Mr. Wilson found wild plants up to 6ft. high, but its present rate of growth with us suggests that these must be very old specimens. Bushy- plants ift. to 2ft. in height with small scaly leaves and primrose yellow blos- soms iin. across being the average. R. HIPPOPHAEOIDES is one of the best half-dozen small- flowered and small- leaved evergreen Rhododendrons o f recent introduction. It is a much- branched, rather upright - growing twiggy shrub 3ft. to 4ft. or 5ft. high. There is considerable variation among the seedlings in the colour of the iin. wide flowers, which are mauve, lavender or purple blue, bluish rose or rosy pink. These are borne in clusters of five to seven or eight at the ends of the shoots. This species seeds freely in gardens, and is also readily propagated by cuttings. In 1913-14 Mr Forrest collected seeds in five districts of Yunnan at altitudes ranging from 10,000ft. to 14,000ft. Mr. Kingdon Ward also collected this species in 1913 in the Chung River Valley, Yunnan. It is a useful companion plant to R. racemosum. R. impeditum is the correct name of the dainty purple-flowered alpine Rhododendron first intro- duced from Western China by Mr. George Forrest in rgn, when it was named and distributed as R. fastigiatum. It resembles R. intricatum, which, however, has the stamens within the corolla tube, while those of R. impeditum are distinctly protruding. R. fastigiatum is more open in habit, seeds freely and flowers about three weeks later than R. intricatum. Seedlings flower when two years old ; in fact, when first introduced, several eighteen months old plants opened flowers in the autumn of 1912. R. intricatum. — This was the first of the purple-flowered dwarf alpine Rhododendrons intro- duced from China to flower in our gardens. Collected by Mr. Wilson in Szechuan at n.oooft. to 15,000ft., it is perfectly hardy, but, flowering in April, should be planted in sheltered positions. Averaging 6ins. to 9ms. in height, the tufts increase in size, and if liberally mulched with leaf-mould, root freely into it and can be readily propagated by division. R. intricatum does not produce seeds with us, but cuttings on plants grown under 108 THE GARDEN. [March 3^1923 glass root readily in a propagating frame, for which purpose it is easy to lift a plant or two with good balls of soil. R. micranthum. — This is one of the most distinct of the small-leaved species. With its many-flowered racemes of small white blossoms the plant is not infrequently mistaken for a Sedum. It forms a bushy evergreen at present 2ift tu 3ft. high, but will no doubt grow taller. The two outstanding characters are that it flowers in June and is very hardy, being one of the strictly limited number of evergreen Chinese Rhododen- drons hardy in the Arnold Arboretum, U.S.A. It is of wide distribution, being found in North and Central China and Manchuria. Our plants were raised from seeds collected by Mr. Wilson in Western Hupeh. R. MOUPINENSE is this year flowering in February. No doubt because of the mild weather it is several weeks earlier than usual. There are pink and white flowered forms, the latter being the more common and perhaps the more beautiful. In habit, foliage and flowers (about 2ins. across) R. moupinense suggests the Indian Azaleas, so popular in our greenhouse. Being early and free-flowering I throw out the suggestion that it is worthy of cultivation for cool and unheated greenhouses. Outside, this Rhododendron should be planted in very sheltered positions. It is a native of Western China and Tibet. R. neriiflorum is another charming and distinct addition to our cultivated Rhododen- drons. In a wild state it must be a variable plant, being described as 2ft. to 8ft. high, the colour ranging from deep rose to deep crimson and flowering from April to June or July. One of the plants we had flowering at Kew was as rich in colour as Thomsoni. The bell-shaped flowers, eight to twelve or more in number, are borne in a terminal cluster. It was introduced from Yunnan by Mr. Forrest in 1906. Growing at 9,000ft. to 12,000ft. elevation, it should be hardy in most gardens. R. oleifolium. — This species in some respects resembles (and for that reason is much confused with) the beautiful R. racemosum. The important distinction is that in addition to having larger leaves and flowers, the blossoms of R. oleifolium are borne singly or sometimes in pairs in the leaf-axils, whereas with R. racemosum there is usually quite a crowd of blossoms in each axil. Never- theless, when raising seedlings the two vary so much it is sometimes difficult to say where one begins and the other ends, though typical plants of both are easy to distinguish. The flowers are white with a rose tint. R. racemosum is one of the best known and most useful Chinese Rhododendrons. For massing in borders and for lawn beds it is a valuable ever- green shrub covered in April and May with quanti- ties of small pink-tinted white blossoms. Produced in terminal and axillary racemes, vigorous plants may carry growth wreathed with ift. to 2ft. lengths of blossoms which are delightful to cut for decora- tion indoors. The first seedlings were raised in the Jardin des Plantes, Paris, in 1889 from seeds collected by Pere Delavay. Later intro- ductions shew considerable variation in the rose and pink tints of the blossoms, particularly in the bud state, and there is also a white variety occasionally among the seedlings. One thing which troubles growers of numbers of plants is that they produce seeds very freely, which, it left to mature, considerably weaken tin- new growths. If the plants are to give of their best the removal of the seed-pods is imperative. R. Sargentian'um is another dwarf alpine species producing in May small terminal clusters of six to twelve pale yellow blossoms. It is a gem for the rock garden or the narrow border of choice shrubs. R. sciNTiLLANS is a very distinct species of the " fastigiatum " group. Its notable characters are a twiggy growth 2ft. to 3ft. or more in height, mil purple blossoms in April, and charmingly prominent golden brown anthers. Introduced by Mr. Forrest in 1913 from Yunnan, this promises to be a charming and valuable introduction. R. Souliei in flower is one of the most capti- vating and distinct, with its glaucous leathery foliage and open saucer-shaped blossoms. One form has delicate rose pink flowers, the other waxy white flowers. Mr. Wilson, who introduced it first in 1905, describes R. Souliei as a common evergreen shrub in Western China near Ta-chien-lu. Under cultivation, plants are not proving easy to manage, but as it is such a distinct and fascinating Rhododendron we must keep trying plants under varying conditions until they grow with native luxuriance. Two plants grew and flowersd well and produced seeds in shady woodland until the dry summer of 1921, but the liberal watering then necessary on our dry soil, despite a heavy mulch of leaves, was apparently unsuitable and both have since died. R. Wieliamsianum is of spreading prostrate habit in the early stages of its growth, though said eventually to reach a height of 4ft. to 5ft. in Western Szechuan, where Mr. Wilson collected seeds in 1908. The bell-shaped pale rose blossoms seem almost too large and heavy for this delightful plant to carry. Mulched liberally with leaf-mould the growths spread and root freely in it. A. 0. NOTES OF THE WEEK READERS are reminded that if they have not already sent their mowing machines for repair and overhaul, they should do so without delay. It is a great k mistake to let the grass grow unduly long in spring before putting the machine on it, a bigger one still to " carry on " with a machine "out of tune." Another word of warning may not be out of place. It has reference to the abuse of the roller. Nothing so delights the soul of the handyman or jobbing gardener as to roll the lawn when the roller makes a " good " impression — otherwise when the sward is wet. The roller should only be used on turf when the surface of the soil i-. almost dry or what gardeners would call (in a border), in good working condition. Some readers will, no doubt, be contemplating the purchase of a new machine or new roller. In the case of the latter, a fairly light one should be selected. A heavy roller has no place on a lawn, although it may be useful for paths. That is where a ballast- roller comes in ! With regard to lawn-mowers there is no excuse at present for anyone to buy a foreign machine. The cheapest effective machines on the market are British made, while if a model de luxe is wanted (to quote the motor trade !i British machines are far in front of the foreign ones. The Toothwort, Lathra?a Claridestina, is a parasite growing on the roots of the Willow, Poplar, Hazel and Rhododendron. It prefers moist, shady situations, where it spreads quickly, making large drifts or patches, where its lilac or bluish purple flowers provide a very pleasing note of colour in April. Mr. R. A. Malby writes. "At Warley place in Essex I have seen the very fine rich- coloured form here portrayed growing in thickly clustering masses down to the water's edge in association with Irises and Primulas, and the con- trast of its rich Crocus vernus-like colouring with outlying drifts of the naturalised Narcissi there so much in evidence, providing a peculiarly attractive colour combination. The flowering period usually lasts from mid-April to the end of June, while the growth appears in February in the form of a mass of white scales, amid which the Bowers develop in dense clusters. This curious plant ripens seed plentifully, and upon the capsules attaining maturity fhey violently burst, th: "lit the relatively large seed to a distance of 3ft. Not infrequently the plant dies out only to come up again with vigour several yards distant." LATHR^EA CLANDESTINE . March 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 109 CORRESPONDENCE PRIMULA AVINTERI. TT may be of interest to your readers to hear that since the last week in November I have had a constant succession of perfect blooms on one plant of Primula Winteri in my back garden on the north side of Edinburgh. The simple requirements of this exquisite Himalayan treasure seem to be a north-east aspect, a liberal supply of leaf mould and stones about its roots, and a small square of glass over its head during the winter months. At any rate, this treatment has with me resulted in a wealth of beautiful sea-green leaves covered with farina and a display of from four to twelve delicately scented, luminous, rosy lavender flowers at a time, over a period which will certainly extend to three months, if one may judge from the buds still unopened. I bought the plant last April and could wish no garden lover a more delight- ful experience than it has afforded. Later I hope to divide it and so increase the joy it has given me and others. — Anne Church, Edinburgh. THE TENERIFFE BROOM. AFTER the "Mimosa" there is no tree-like shrub more commonly seen in the Riviera battles of flowers, and flower fetes generally, than the Teneriffe Broom, Genista monosperma. Its feathery white sprays of blossom are so elegant and contrast so admirably with the Carnations and Anemones that make the bulk of decorations that it is quite an indispensable adjunct, and is therefore much grown for market purposes. Many folk probably, like myself, have heard the remark made first by one and then another that its scent is overpowering and yet again that it has no scent at all ! Such an apparent anomaly needs a little explanation, I think, as both statements are true ! Botanists can tell us whether this Broom is really dioecious or not, but any gardener can tell you there are two forms, one of which is very strongly scented and bears seed. The other has no scent and is quite barren. The barren or " male " form has smaller flowers, neater growths and no scent, so as it is earlier in flower than- the fertile or " female " form, it is the most commonly grown for market. "But for the garden the larger-flowered and strongly scented plant is decidedly the more ornamental and desirable, though its lanky growths require a little judicious pruning after the flowering season. It would be interesting to know if its habitat on the volcanic cinders of Mt. Teneriffe has anything to do with this rather unusual peculiarity of habit or variation. There must be something unusual in a climate when the drought-loving Broom and the moisture- loving Cineraria grow so close together. Of course the Cineraria is only an annual, and therefore does not survive the summer heats, while the Broom is a long-lived shrub of very tough consti- tution on a well drained soil, only succumbing to the wet blanket of an English winter. As far as resistance to frost is concerned I have no doubt it would stand more than io3 of frost on a dry volcanic soil. — E. H. W., Nice THALICTRUM AD1ANTIFOL1UM AND ITS HARDINESS. TN your issue for January 27 you have a letter re protecting Thalictrum minus adiantifolium in the winter, and ask for other people's experience. It will interest you to know that at my old home we had a plant planted by my grandfather about fifty years ago. This was never protected in any way, and still survived the moist, foggy weather so prevalent at Oxford, and during that period must have experienced several very severe winters. I have the same plant up here, within a few miles of the mouth of the Tees, and in spite of the position being extremely wet (almost waterlogged) and shaded from all sun except for about an hour in the height of summer, it survived last winter (1921-22), which was par- ticularly trying, and is a t present shewing signs of renewed activity. — M. Odling, Mmion, Yorks. THE MYROBALAN PLUM. T NOTICE so many re- marks on the earliness of the present season that I send a photograph which I took of a Myrobalan Plum tree growing in a yard here on February n, 1913, when it was in full bloom. At the time of writing the buds are well advanced, but none has opened nor is likely to do so for many days, even if the weather continues mild. The value of this beautiful early - flowering Plum seems to be over- looked by planters. Large specimens in hedgerows or outskirts of shrubberies are very fine in early spring, and in a favour- able season will bear freely and the fruits are much esteemed for bottling. We have several trees here near to public roads, and they are always much admired in early spring. — H. C. Wood, Lingfield. CHRYSANTHEMUM TOKIO. T AM extremely sorry to have caused Mr. Harman Payne such perturbation and hasten to apolo- gise. I thought quite innocently that he might have misread a label or made a slip of memory. In a longish life I have more than once made a mistake and have comforted myself with two proverbial sayings, one, " huminum est errare" the other, " the man who never made a mistake never made anything." But I see, of course, that Mr. Harman Payne would not make a mistake. — G. H. Engleheart. [This correspondence is now finished. — Ed.] PRIMULA CHIONANTHA. T WAS greatly interested in the splendid illus- tration of P. chionantha in the issue of The Garden of February 3, and note that seed of this beautiful species is being offered by Messrs. Barr and Sons, Covent Garden. This handsome species hails from Yunnan, where it was collected about ten years ago by G. Forrest. It is still rare in gardens, but deserves to be more widely cultivated. P. chionantha belongs to the nivalis section. The foliage is somewhat fleshy and coated .-with golden farina. The flower-stem rises to a height of 15ms. or more and is crowned with many whorls of pure white flowers about iin. in diameter, which are sweetly scented. Its cultivation is not so easy as some people would imagine and, like the majority of the nivalis group, it has the unfortunate habit of rotting off at the collar during the winter months. We must bear in mind that P. chionantha in its own native habitat is completely covered with dry THE MYROBALAN PLUM ON FEBRUARY II, 1913. snow for about six months of the year, hence the reason why in this country it is difficult to keep this beautiful Primula in a healthy state during the winter when planted out of doors. This evil may be overcome to a certain extent by thorough drainage, planting on gently sloping ground and working in plenty of gritty soil at the time of planting ; this will help considerably to ward off some of the excessive moisture during the dark, wet days of winter. In some parts it may even require to be protected overhead with glass. Unfortunately, P. chionantha appears to be monocarpic, but sets seeds freely, which should be sown immediately they are ripe. — \Y. Scot. THE SEASON. 'T'HIS winter, so far, is the mildest I can remember. Throughout December and January we have had a large vase of Roses in the house, renewed every two or three days, and there are still a number in the garden. Roses of all sorts are still flowering, not only the Hybrid Perpetuals which often linger through December, but also Wichuraiana Dorothy Perkins and single Roses, such as Irish Elegance. The following list of flowers was made on the last day of 1922, and on January 31, practically all still remained' in bloom, with the addition of Snowdrops, and what should be Crocuses, but, unfortunately, the sparrows are destroying them as soon as they shew colour. The scarlet-berried Elder was flower- ing ; Prunus Pissardi, in a sheltered place, shewed leaf with flower-buds on the point of 110 THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923. opening ; and I had cut some branches of Japanese Willow (Salix mutabilis) with catkins lin. long. The New Year's list: — Veronica rupestris, Escallonia, Double Daisy," Polygala buxifolia, Hypericum (small species and also Rose of Sharon), Miniature Marigold (Calendula arvensis), Saxifraga Burseriana, White Thrift, Violas (various), Common Primrose and also Double White, San Remo market Anemone, Daphne Mezereum, Astrantia major, Silver-striped Lamium, Sisyrinchium striatum, Linaria Cymba- laria, Specularia Speculum, Pink Mesembryanthe- muin, Alpine Strawberry, Pulmonaria (from Como), white Centaurea, yellow Wallflowers, Arbutus, Burnet, Periwinkles (Vinca major and V. media), Alyssum, Chamomile, blue Cornflowers (from the Somme battlefields), Helianthemum, Schizostylis coccinea (Kaffir Lily), Veronica salicifolia, Zonal Geraniums (Pelargoniums), Cyclamen (from Como), Aconites, Laurustinus, Winter Jessamine, Pink Carnation, Red Hot Poker, blue Hepatica, Christmas Roses, Violets — and the following plants from Hyeres : Genista species, Bellis sylvestris, Dianthus species, Spiranthes, Allium triquetrum — Roses of many sorts and a wild flower which happened to catch my eye, the common Buttercup, not a winter flowerer as a rule. There are far more flowers in our Yorkshire garden now than could be found at the same date last year at Hyeres on the French Riviera, but three which might reasonably be expected are missing. There is not a flower (so far) on the Winter Honeysuckle, Chimonanthus or Iris stylosa. The latter, which did so well here last year, has doubtless suffered from the lack of sun in the summer, but it is curious that the summer which failed to ripen the roots for flowering should have served to ripen seed, which i- already sprouting, sown in a pot in the open. A number of Orchises brought from Hyeres last year are shewing flower-buds in the rock garden. — Rtth Bickersteth, Cottingham. "SPOTTINESS" IN PLANTING. " A PAINTER'S" note in The Garden of February 10 in criticism of the illustration, " Admirably planned and planted," which appeared in the issue of January 27, will no doubt interest those of your readers who, like myself, are glad to know how a garden picture appears to a maker of pictures. " Spottiness " is certainly an undesir- able feature in a garden, though it is a fault some- what difficult to avoid where the space is small and a desire for variety clashes with a love of breadth and mass. As regards the little picture in question, I cannot say that I find " A Painter's " remarks, though interesting, altogether convincing. It is a very cool and refreshing little scene and. very possibly, was " admirably planned and planted " ; though, to me, it recommends itself as having been neither planned nor planted, but as having come into existence at the haphazard prompting of Nature. If it was " planned and planted," the aim of the planner and planter was, I should say, to conceal his art and plagiarise from Nature ; and, judging from the illustration, though things are not always what the camera would have us believe, the planner and planter has been fairly successful. One has seen dozens of such woodland viguettes — a runlet of water, a few boulders, half a rood or so of turf more or less irregularly disposed and' pied with Daisies, a clump or two of Lastrea and Polypody, a fringe of grasses at the brook-edge, a little bog of sedge, a pool with a few plants of Water Docks or Alisma and, hemming all in from the rest of the noisy universe, a boundary wall of foliage, Holly, it might be. or Alder. That seems to me to have been the rough pattern which the planner and planter ' had present to his mind when he made his little Eden, bettering his instruction, no doubt, by introducing Funkias, Irises, Spirreas and other fine plants which Nature does not introduce into her woodland scenes in this country, but which she uses lavishly enough elsewhere. Where I seem to join issue with " A Painter " is in the exception taken to individual plants in a gaiden picture of this kind as " unrelated " to their environment, that is, as having no business there. I quite agree that it is unpleasant to feel that a plant has no right to be where it is ; but that it happens to be a single plant, say, of Funkia or Burdock, growing near other things on the bank of a stream does not necessarily mean that it spoils the picture. It may be the very thing wanted to emphasise something else, as, with deference, I venture to think the Funkia is in this picture. Isolated plants, as well as broad masses, have surely their picture value. It is often true with plants as with other things, that the part is greater than the whole. The characteristic beauty of a plant is often lost in the mass, as the beauty of an animal is lost in the pack or herd. To my thinking the Funkia in the picture has a finer effect than if the whole bank had been one mass of the plant. I quite recognise that " A Painter " is less concerned with the beauty of individual plants than with the part they play in the landscape. I would only say that, even as a feature of landscape, breadth and mass, though much, are not everything. Also I venture to think that, all regard being had to the value of mass, the illustration in question seems to present a scene too small in scale to admit of much massing. — Somers. FOREIGN-GROWN PLANTS. AS we hear that certain undesirable Dutch firms are again flooding this country with their gaily-got-up catalogues, we think the follow- ing letter which we received last summer from a customer may interest your readers : " I should like to thank you for the way in which you executed my small orders for rock plants last autumn. My garden is now full of colour, and I am more than satisfied. The plants came so well packed and grown that I do not think I have lost one. I had some of the same kinds of plants at the same time from a Dutch firm, and though yours were certainly about double the price, they are ten times the value." The opinion expressed by our customer is by no means exceptional, and it is really where the Britisher scores every time over the Dutchman by giving bis customers a better article and better service than he ever gets from Holland. For obvious reasons we should prefer that you do not publish our name, a=- we have no desire for a gratuitous advertise- ment.— London Seedsman. [The foregoing letter might be so construed as to cast a slur on the general commercial morality of our industrious and patient friends the Dutch. We are sure such is not intended. There are, of course, Dutch nursery firms of repute, but it is not these who make such tempting offers to the unwary. The difficulty of reclaiming compara- tively small sums of money once sent into a foreign country makes it easy for unscrupulous tricksters to exploit a not unnatural desire to buy in the cheapest market. — Ed.] A FINE PYRACANTH. T AM sending you a spray of a remarkable Cotoneaster I obtained some few years ago as C. angustifolia. I never see it included in your otherwise interesting articles on Cotoneasters and am wondering why. Although it was some years before it blossomed or fruited with me, when once it " made up its mind " to fruit, it did it to some purpose. It is one of the most beautiful plants imaginable for the winter garden, as the fruits do not reach maturity until the end of the year. The berries are a very effective yellowish orange. Some of the sappy growth has been cut by frost on one or two occasions, but it stand-' out in the open here in Warwickshire. — C. L. IThe plant in question is a Pyracanth, not a Cotoneaster. Pyracantha angustifolia has often been described in The Garden. It is certainly valuable for its late-fruiting. Its berries often retain their beauty until March, but it is not, as a rule, very free to fruit. It was originally sent out as a Cotoneaster and is still listed as one in some nurserv catalogues. — Ed.] A FRUITING SPRAY OF PYRACANTHA ANGUSTIFOLIA. March 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. Ill HERBACEOUS PHLOXES WHETHER we use these gorgeous plants as " clumps " among other flowers or segregate them into a border that is " all their own," working this up from purest white at one end to the most intense hues at the centre, and paling off again at the most distant point to the softest of rose and heliotrope, it is certain we shall possess a rich store of colourful material from June to October. They are, in short, among the best and most gorgeous of hardy border flowers and will grow make superb specimens. In any case, it is a mistake to allow old plants to remain too long, for as they grow older they become harder and more woody at the centre year by year, with the stronger growths at the outside, until eventually the plant perishes. Big clumps, such as are seen in large gardens or in public parks, are not the result of old-established plants that have spread to a large size, but are composed of several small pieces put in close together. Every year, after growth has well started, a good mulch of leaf-mould or well rotted manure should be spread over the soil to a depth of 'sins. A BORDER OF PHLOXES. graudly in practically any soil if a little trouble is taken with them. There are people who " cannot grow Phlox," and indeed their plants are a testi- mony to this, but I venture to be sure that is not the fault of the Phlox or the soil, but due solely to omission of that " little trouble " which makes all the difference between success and failure. Deep trenching and liberal manuring are the first steps in every case and, whatever the nature of the soil, this must be regarded as absolutely essential. The kind of manure used must also be considered, in connexion with the quality of the soil. Upon a light and porous one, nothing is better than that from the cow ; while a stiff clay is immensely improved by the addition of plenty of " long " horse manure and wood ashes. Anything, in fact, that tends to improve the texture of your particular soil should be employed, leaf-mould and shoddy being especially valuable. Happy is the man upon whom beneficent Nature has bestowed a rich greasy loam ; he may grow Phlox to perfection, with " pips " of unparalleled size ; for the rest of us it remains to get our soil as nearly to this as possible. Bear in mind that trenching has a splendid effect upon the drainage and mechanical condition of the ground, but also remember that the Phlox is a surface rooter, and manurial sub- stances at a greater depth than ift. to 15ms. are wasted so far as they are concerned. For the planting season, early spring is the best possible time and old clumps may then be split up or young plants from cuttings used. If your Phlox have failed to satisfy you I strongly commend a trial of the latter method, for the plants invariably or 31ns. This is of great assistance in conserving moisture, a very important point with surface- rooting plants. Cuttings are very readily rooted in spring when a couple of inches of growth have been made, and a large stock of healthy plants can quickly be worked up in this way. Older clumps invariably make too many shoots and these, to secure fine heads, must be thinned. The shoots removed serve as cuttings. Under a bell glass in a cool greenhouse is an excel- lent place to root the cuttings. Rooting, in sandy soil, is speedily accomplished. Directly they are ready the young plants should be transferred to single pots in a cold frame. Give them rich soil and grow them sturdily, and within a short time they will be strong enough to plant out in the border. Most of these will produce a head of flower the first autumn, though at a lesser height than they attain in subsequent years and are then good for three years without further propagation, though where a large number of kinds are grown, it is best to propagate a few new plants each season rather than deal with them in a wholesale manner at one operation, for then there will always be a good dis- play in the finest possible condition. Summer watering is an important point and one must never allow the plants to become so dry that the foliage droops, or the best heads cannot be expected. Nor, on the other hand, should watering be done too often, especially if it is put on through a hose from the water main. This is too cold and chills the roots, but, in many cases, it is the only means by which watering can be done. In this case it is best to water only when really required and then in such quantity that the whole of the ground will be absolutely soaked and so remain moist for several days. Varieties are so numerous and so much inter- crossing has taken place between PP. suffruticosa, maculata, pyramidalis and paniculata, that the original distinctions have almost disappeared and, by consulting a list of a specialist in these grand hardy border flowers, practically any colour and height can be obtained with different varieties flowering from June to October. Some of the newer varieties, however, have lost in size and shape of truss what they have gained in size of pip. For garden decora- tion the form and size of the truss is, next to the colour, the most important item of all. H. W. Canning-Wright. FRUIT TREE STOCKS NOT a great many amateur gardeners, even of considerable skill, realise that fruit trees may be fitted into different sized spaces. The size to which fruit trees attain when full grown depends partly upon soil and partly upon position, but mostly upon the kind of stock on which the trees were budded before being sent from the nursery. This fact will be taken advantage of by those who wish to plant a fruit tree in a space of a certain size, or where more than one tree is to be planted in a limited area. After a careful study of the growing capacity of different stocks — and this capacity gives a %vide range of choice — it should be fairly easy to get a tree suitable for almost any position. Naturally, the shape of the tree will also make a difference to its suitability : whether bush, pyramid, standard or half standard ; for the purpose of this article we may leave cordons alone. The shape of the tree, however, also depends upon the stock ; it is hopeless to attempt to obtain a standard from a tree grown on some of the weaker stocks, and it is just as hopeless to attempt to confine a tree on strong-growing stock to bush or quarter standard size. Perhaps a few general hints as to the right stock for large or small-growing trees may not be out of place, but it should be remembered that there are a few kinds of Apples which will not flourish on every kind of stock. The choice, however, is far from limited and plenty of scope is allowed. Apple trees that are required to grow to large size should be on crab stock, while those required to grow only to a comparatively small size would be best on English broad-leaf paradise. In between these there are other kinds of paradise stocks that will serve the purpose. Pears to grow to large size will need to be on pear stock, but no crop of Pears need be expected on trees on this stock for the first few years after planting. There is still a lot of truth in the old couplet, where pear stock is used : " He who plants pears, Plants for his heirs." Pear trees to grow to smaller size should be on quince stock, It ought, perhaps, to be mentioned that Apples on paradise stock will begin to bear fruit a few years before Apples on crab stock, but the difference is not nearly as great as in the case of Pears. Another point to be borne in mind before finally deciding as to the choice of stock is to remember that Apples on paradise stock are rather more liable to canker than Apples on crab stock, but in either case, if properly looked after, they will live and flourish for a good many years. J. \\ . Morton. 112 THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923. THE OLD ENGLISH HERBALS T HE Old English Herbals," by Eleanour Sinclair Rohde, is a book which is full of interest to all who include or who wish to include the ancient con. nexion between plants and diseases in their pharmacopeia of knowledge, doctors especially. To quote from William Clowes' Introductory poem in Lyte's Herbal, if the reader will substitute lady for gentleman, " And sure I am all English hartes that lyke of Physickes lore Will also lyke this gentleman : and thanke hym muche therefore." Gardeners, too, will like it. The history of plants is ignored by many, but this omission, 1 venture to think, is only because the past is a sealed book. Our authoress has opened one of the sealed chambers of that past in all she has told us about the manu- script herbals of our distant forefathers, and I am only sorry she does not make it clear that much of her knowledge has been extracted from a somewhat rare work, " Leechdoms, Wort- cunning and Starcraft of early England . . collected and edited by Oswald Cockayne in three royal 8vo volumes, 1864-66. It is an official publication of the Record Office, and from its size it is needless to say that Miss Rohde — although she has been a wonderfully busy bee — has not extracted all the honey. From manuscript she passes on to printed herbals, stopping short in her quaint extracts with Culpeper, whom one might almost describe as a super-popular quack, and Coles the lawyer exponent of the famous Doctrine of Signatures. It is a pity, for the book is good reading. Macer's Herbal, Turner's Herbal, Gerard's Herbal, Parkinson's Herbal and his Paradisus, with many more, are dealt with, and as a sort of Grangerised addition a good many pages are given to " Sixteenth and Seventeenth- century Still-room Books." They are near akin to herbals ; they have a good deal in common with books on cookery and just a little with the " vanity " bags of the twentieth century. " Balles for the face " and " Divers excellent sents for Gloves " come under this category. This last heading is from a similar book by Sir Hugh Piatt (c. 1630), which is not mentioned by our authoress, but which breathes the same spirit as Lady Sedley's Receipt book and the Still-room book of Sir Kenelm Digby. Piatt's " Epistle" at the com- mencement of this book, " Delights for Ladies," is very quaint and shews him to have been a lady's man : " Rosewater is the ink I write with all. Of sweets, the sweetest I will now commend, To sweetest creatures that the earth doth beare : These are the Saints to whom I sacrifice, Preserves and conserves both of plum and peare." It is very hard to know where to stop and very hard to know what to put in and what to leave out in writing in the enthusiastic way that Miss Rohde does. But if ever a second edition is called for, might I suggest that more might be said about Dr. Agnes Arber's " Herbals." One book throws light upon the other Then in one or two cases references might be given to, or at any rate the name mentioned, of the book that has been used in the text. For example, if I mistake not, in dealing with the Vegetable Lamb (pages 143-5), Miss Rohde has had access to Henry Lee's " The Vegetable Lamb of Tartary," which might be called the chief stone- house ol information on this very absorbing subject. There are a few slips in the text, as for example on page 9, Sunflowers are said to have been grown in Saxon gardens ; the date of " A little Herbal " printed by John King (page 206) is given as 1550, when King did not begin to print until 1555 ; and on page 195 an " e " has changed places with a " t " in describing love." the town in which John Lelamour, a schoolmaster of Hertford, lived. These little matters do not affect the general interest of a book which one feels has been, as the authoress claims in her preface, " a labour of Joseph Jacob. SEMI-NATURAL GARDENING WE cannot help a feeling of sadness when we see the owners of our grand old establishments trying to keep up appearances with a much reduced income. Only the other day I heard of one of these cases which almost brought tears to my eyes. Not very long ago there was an elaborate, well kept formal flower garden situated close to the mansion in a noble park. The flower-beds are still there, but they are furnished in a different and not an improved style. Now, I think, in many cases where the limited income will not allow such beds to be furnished properly it would be much better to do without them and revert to a more natural style. I have no great love for masses of scarlet Geraniums and yellow Calceolarias anywhere, and when these have to be replaced by ephemeral annuals the effect is still more jarring on one's taste. A greensward with hardy flowering plants and shrubs placed in suitable positions would certainly not have such a poverty-stricken appearance. There are many beautiful things in this way which will almost take care of themselves and, indeed, excepting in a formal terraced garden, which is partly architectural, I prefer them to formal beds. But they require an artist to arrange them. Pampas Grass, Tritomas, umbrella-trained Rambler Roses, Yuccas, Aralias and Bocconias are among those which occur to me at the moment, and there are many others, but it is well not to have too many. Among shrubs is Pyrus japonica, which makes a handsome -bush, sometimes jyils. or 3yds. in diameter. The silver-leaved Picea Nordmanniana is handsome as a small tree, and various Barberries are suitable; but not stiff- growing Irish Yews or the columnar Cypress. If the lawn is a large one, it may be permissible to have a bed or two of Kalmias, Rhododendrons, Mahonias and the like, planted thinly and carpeted with Snowdrops, Daffodils, Crocuses, etc. Where there is anything like a shrubbery it may be made attractive by taking out some of the shrubs at irregular intervals and different areas and introducing hardy flowering plants. It is best not to have a long, straight line of turf or gravel, but there must always be a visible excuse for the deviation ; something must be in the way to shew why the bend is there. We must not imitate the professional who made serpentine walks among the Cabbages. Where there is a woodland walk, or rather a walk on the outskirts of a wood with an irregular breadth of turf between the two there is scope for much tasteful arrange- ment. I remember our veteran friend and tutor, Mr. William Robinson, coming across a batch of summer Snowflake on the grass backed up by the green leaves of Rhododendron ponticum, being so delighted that he went down on one knee to it. I passed this spot daily, and if there was a leaf of the shrub in the way it was picked, but no one could see there had been any manipula- tion. I believe this was figured in "The Wild Garden," but I have never seen that work. Another patch was the Evening Primrose growing out "I the grass and backed by shrubs which the artist Alfred Parsons thought good enough to make a drawing of These things happened nearly half a century ago, when I wrote the following, which, I think, is better than I could do it now, but then I was close to Heaven's Gate, the hallowed spot where the saintly Bishop Ken composed the beautiful morning hymn, " Awake my soul." Such associations ought to touch the most barbarian mind. " One of the most enjoyable places on earth is half wood, half shrubbery, carpeted with low- growing plants, producing a succession of flowers throughout the four seasons, and with a well drained walk, not too trimly kept, but such as can be used in all weathers, where there are gigantic trees to shelter from sun and rain, and rustic seats at intervals on which to rest while listening to the music of the birds and inhaling the odours of the flowers. If ever I make a spring garden in accordance with my own ideas, it will be in such a spot as this. Aye, and my summer, autumn and winter garden shall be there too, for I will have a perpetual succession of flowers from the Winter Aconite to the Christmas Rose, not in ribbon borders and carpet patterns, but in humble imitation of Nature's own sweet ways. . . . The greatest art lies in concealing art. If I am asked concerning a plant or a mass of plants which has only been in position year or two, ' Did you plant that, or was it always there ? ' I feel it is the greatest compliment I can receive." But when I try competition with Nature 1 am frequently second best. Those glorious masses of Grape Hyacinths, Primroses, Foxgloves, etc., stretching away under the boughs of the Hazel and losing themselves in the distance are better by far than my puny attempts at decoration. The Winter Heliotrope growing on a shaded clay bank, where no other flower can exist, filling the air with its fragrance during the shivery season, seems to be thriving in perfect luxury. The larger Periwinkles will overrun most weeds and kill them in time, and the common St. John's Wort has taken possession of a partly shaded bank where, when not shewing its elegant blossoms, it is a mass of emerald green. Honeysuckles and wild Roses have a charm of their own, but some of the Penzance Briars and single Ramblers might be introduced, as well as a Clematis or two, especially montana. Bulbs, too, would make a pleasant feature and might include Snowdrops, Daffodils, Lilies and Jonquils. Where turf is growing between the shrubs and the walk it should not be cut to a line next the shrubs, but should lose itself under them. I have a great objection to trimming shrubs too formally, as is frequently done in our public parks. Some trimming is necessary, but the marks of the workman should not be visible. If this style of gardening is taken up by ladies and gentlemen who have some leisure and good taste but who cannot afford a more expensive method of decoration, they will soon find it will relieve them of many a tedious half hour, especially if they will condescend to do a little of the work themselves. Garden labourers generally are not adepts in this kind of work. They want to do too much, and they leave their marks behind them. W'm Tavlor. M.ARCH 3, I923.] THE GARDEN. 113 NOTES ON FREESIAS " ■ ""^ UPS." — I fear the flowering season \ of 1923 has not been quite up to ■ that of 1922, on account of the M numerous " duds " that have ^~^^^ appeared in many collections. I am told that this lying dormant for a whole year is a characteristic of several South African bulbs. It certainly is of the Freesia, and sad experience now makes me include the white Freesia. Until this year I did think that the whites were immune, but I can at the moment of writing shew anyone a whole pot of " Purity " in which every bulb is a shirker. We live and learn. It would seem that this tendency to remain immovable in the ground Is " the fault and corruption of the Nature of every " Freesia that is born into the world, and that it only requires suitable conditions for this tendency to show itself. Those conditions were present in 1922, inasmuch as the summer of that year was cold and sunless, and the early autumn no better. After the almost tropical summer of 1921, I could here, one with variegated foliage. There seems to be an albino taint in the family, for pure whites often appear in our seed pots, but they have only short butterfly existence and long before the time comes for their green brethren to die down they have disappeared. There was no sign of this variegation in the seed pots, for my gardener and myself keep far too watchful an eye on them to have missed such a novel breakaway. Something must have happened during its first resting period, the result being that there is a healthy normal looking plant with all green foliage replaced by white and green. It is going to flower in quite the usual way. One never knows, my one ewe lamb may not be the uncommon creature that I think it is. Again, what is the experience of others ? Open or Cup-shaped ? — Apotheose is by many considered to be the high water mark of coloured Freesias. I have grown several potfuls for the first time and I can unhesitatingly say that it is a fine March 7. — Lewes Horticultural Society's Meeting. Lecture at the University College, W.C.I, at 5 p.m., by Sir John Russell, F.R.S., on " The Chemical Activities of the Soil Population and Their Relation to the Growing Plant." YELI )W FREESIA CANARY WHICH IN 1919 MR. JACOB DESCRIBED AS FREE FROM " DUDS count our " duds " on the fingers of my two hands. Seeing is believing, otherwise I could never have realised the difference a warm and sunny and a cold and sunless ripening season can make. The practical question for those who grow Freesias — more especially the coloured varieties — is " can anything be done to help matters when Nature is unkindly ? " I am experimenting. One year's experience suggests that if the bulbs are kept nice and warm both before and after they are planted, this trouble will be overcome. Don't you know how uncongenial company and surroundings freeze one up ? Pity then the poor Freesia when it is in similar circumstances, and do not blame the dealer who may have sent you more " duds " than you wanted. To the true gardener exchange of experiences is like charity. It blesses both the writer and the reader. Here you have mine — now won't others tell us their's ? A New Comer. — I have grown coloured Freesias for many years. I had my first from Van Tubergen of Haarlem almost as soon as they were put on the market, but never until this year have I had among all the hundreds of seedlings that have been raised thing. Tall in stature, strong in limb and pleasing in face (flower), but this grand flower lacks one supreme characteristic in my judgment. I do like a bloom where all the segments open out flat and in tulip language, " quarter." They are so much more graceful either considered from the pot plant point of view or from the vase standpoint. I know- why this loose type of flower will never become very- popular. Market men will be against it. It won't pack. I allow this, but it is no reason why private growers who grow for their own pleasure should not go in foi them. They would then have something that could not be bought in the ordinary way in shops. Joseph Jacob. FORTHCOMING EVENTS. March 5. — Lecture at the University College, Gower Street, London, W.C.i, at 5 p.m., by Dr. A. D. Imms, on " The Invertebrate Fauna of the Soil (other than Protozoa)." March 6. — Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society's Meeting. EARLY VEGETABLE BORDER IF the weather is favourable and the soil in good condition for working a sowing of the follow- ing vegetables may be made forthwith. A well drained sheltered site (preferably a south border) should be selected for this purpose. Large sowings are not advisable at this early date. Peas. — Early dwarf varieties should be sown in broad drills 2 inches deep. A sprinkling of soot over the seed before the latter is covered with soil is beneficial. On very heavy land the seed should be covered with old potting soil, or a special mixture of leaf-mould and loam. Narrow- borders can be sown without the necessity of much treading upon the soil. The seed should be sown fairly thick for these early crops. Allowance- must be made for rot or destruction by pests below or above ground. As soon as the young plants are visible, protect them by drawing up a little soil on each side of the rows and place pea- guards over them. Spinach. — A small sowing of this excellent vegetable will provide a supply at a time when it is much appreciated. Seed should be sown in shallow drills 1 foot apart. Cover lightly and dust the surface of the bed with soot. Sparrows will quickly destroy the young crop unless pre- cautions are taken to keep them off by the use of nets, pea-guards, or strands of black thread. Carrot. — Early Short Horn Carrots delight in a warm, light soil. A slight covering of wood- ash may be raked into the bed before preparing the drills. Turnip. — A very quick-growing Turnip, such as F.arly Milan, is very useful. As these are liable to " bolt," only a small sowing should be made. Protect the bed from birds. Cauliflower and Cabbage. — Sow thinly seed of an early variety of Cauliflower. Prick out the seedlings as soon as they can be handled, finally planting out on rich firm land. Early Cabbage raised now will form a succession to the autumn-sown crop. Broad Beans. — In many gardens this is the first crop sown in the open ground. For the early border Beck's Dwarf Broad Bean can be highly recommended. Lettuce. — An early Cabbage Lettuce, such as Commodore Nutt, which only requires a space of from 1 inches to 6 inches from plant to plant, is very hardy, of good flavour, and is always appreciated. Radish. — Sow one of the small-topped varieties, such as Early Rose. Radish crops often fail owing to the seed being sown much too thickly and neglect of thinning the young plants. Parsley. — Plants raised from this sowing will provide a good supply during the summer. Parsley seedlings should be planted out from 9 inches to 12 inches apart according to the variety grown. Potatoes. — In very sheltered gardens in the Southern Counties a few early Potatoes can be planted, especially where adequate means are at hand for the protection of the crop when the haulm appears above ground. Potatoes can be planted in a ridge of light soil at the foot of a south wall. In this position they obtain the full benefit from the sun during the day. and can easily be protected at night. Colin Ruse. 114 THE GARDEN. [.March 3. 1923. GARDENING OF THE WEEK FOR SOUTHERN GARDENS. The Kitchen Garden. Onions. — Autumn-sown Onions hm\ be I planted about a foot apart, but their keeping qualities only warrant the planting uf a few lines just to supply the kitchen until the spring-sown crop is ready. Seeds for the main crop should be sown at the earliest opportunity, because to get really fine bulbs a long season of growth is essential. Make the ground firm by treading or rolling, and after raking the soil to obtain a fine tilth, shallow drills should be drawn loins, apart. Sow the seeds thinly, and when the drills have been filled in with the foot, rake the bed, thus giving the whole a neat appearance. On light soils the roller may be employed again after the seed is sown. Good kinds of Onion include Ailsa Craig, Cranston's Excelsior and James' Long Keeping. Potatoes. — Tubers that were set up in boxes as advised some time ago, have formed strong short-jointed shoots and should now be planted on a warm border. Deep drills should be drawn or chopped out with a spade about 2ft. apart and the tubers placed at intervals of i8ins. Care is necessary when covering the tubers to prevent injury to the growths. A sprinkling of ashes from the rubbish fire may be given. The seed tubers for the main crop should be examined at intervals and placed thinly in a cool shed where the shoots will remain dwarf. Lettuce. — Plants raised in boxes will soon be large enough for pricking off. A few boxes may be used for this purpose, setting out the seedlings a few inches apart and growing them on in a warm greenhouse. The remainder of the plants can be transferred to a cold frame, dusting the soil with soot to keep off slugs. The Flower Garden. Pruning. — Buddleia variabilis and its several varieties should now be pruned, cutting the growths back that flowered last year to two or three eyes. A few weeks hence the new shoots may be thinned, removing any weak ones and leaving the strong, which will produce fine sprays of flowers in due season. Hydrangea paniculata may be cut down near to ground level, and the same remark applies to Paulownia imperialis. Ivy growing on walls may be clipped close to the stems, and if such work is carried out now the plants will only be bare for a short time. Ceano- thuses of the Gloirede Versailles type ought also to be cut back, but C. dentatus must not be pruned at this season. Lawns should be rolled occasionally to keep down worm-casts, thereby preparing the lawn for the mower in the near future. Jf not already done, the mowing machines should be put in order at once. A dressing of sulphate of ammonia will destroy any moss that may be present on the lawns and at the same time strengthen the grass. One pound to a pole or perch will suffice and, unlike several other artificials, it discourages the growth of Clovers and encourages the finer Grasses. Gladioli. — The many beautiful forms of Gladioli constitute a wonderful race of late summer and autumn flowering plants, and they deserve to be planted in quantity. A border should be devoted to them, but clumps in other parts of the garden will also prove effective. Sweet Peas. — Seed may be sown in lines 6ft. apart or in clumps in the borders. A rich soil is essential, and this is usually prepared in the autumn. Fruit Under Glass. Melons. — Seeds ought now to be sown for the general or main crop. The earlier sown plants will need tying to the wires, and will soon be approaching the flowering stage. Winn four or five female flowers are open at one time they should be fertilised with pollen from the male blooms. At this stage the atmosphere should be on the dry side, but the roots must be kept well supplied with moisture. Four or five fruits are enough for one plant, and it is necei for them to be set at the same time, because if one fruit is allowed to swell it is a difficult matter to get other fruits to form. A top-dressing of fibrous loam should be given, and the lateral growths will need pinching at the third leaf, the object being to maintain sufficient shoots to cover the trellis-work or wires and to encourage the flow of sap. Overcrowding must be guarded against, and to this end it may be necessary to remove a few laterals later on. When the fruits are set the atmosphere should be kept n and air admitted in the forenoon when the weathi 1 ivourable. Maintain a night temperature .1 65° and net the fruits when they are about the size of a hen's egg. T. W. Briscoe (Gardener to \V. R. Lysaght, Esq Uford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. FOR NORTHERN GARDENS, The Kitchen Garden. Peas. — Taking it for granted that a sowing of a first early variety was made about a fortnight ago, a sowing of a second early variety, such as Senator or Royal Salute, should now be made. At this early season it is still advisable to damp the seeds and roll them in dry red lead to ward off the attacks of rats and mice. Broad Beans. — Make a good sowing of a long- pod variety. Bunyard's Exhibition and Seville Longpod are both good. Sow in rows 2jft. apart and allow oins. between the seeds in the row. Red-lead the seeds previous to sowing. Spinach. — Make a sowing between the rows of the first and second sowings of Peas. Run the Dutch hoe through between the lines of the autumn- sown batch. Make a sowing in heat of the New Zealand Spinach. This crop if planted on a warm border at the beginning of June comes in handy when the ordinary Spinach runs hopelessly to seed. Onions. — Spring sowing in the open is not much to be recommended, as the condition of the resultant plants just suits the taste of the Onion fly. Those who mean to follow this system for any reason should get the seed in without delay. The ground having been recently dug or forked over, should be raked smooth and trodden firm. Shallow drills should then be drawn at 13ms. apart, and the seed having been sown thinly, should be covered by means of the rake. It is, of course, understood that the operation cannot be undertaken if the soil is in a wet, pasty con- dition. James' Long Keeping and Strasburg are two suitable varieties for sowing at the present time. Parsley. — As the seed takes six weeks to germi- nate, the sooner a good sowing is made the better. In gardens where the " fly " is troublesome success can generally be achieved by sowing alongside Box edging at about a distance of a foot from it. Extra Triple-curled, if true to name, is hard to beat. Celery. — Sow for the main crop in shallow boxes filled with light, rich soil in a temperature of about 6o°. Wright's Grove Pink and Grove White are excellent varieties. The Flower Garden. Sweet Peas. — Where seed was sown in a cool greenhouse about a month ago the resultant seedlings should now be transferred to a cold frame, keeping the latter rather close for the first week. Those who had no accommodation for sowing under glass should sow now where the plants are to flower. Roll the seeds — after damping them — in dry red lead. Sow in shallow drills, placing the seeds about 2ins. apart. Dahlias. — Pot up cuttings into 3m. pots and retain in a warm house until April. Half-Hardy Annuals.— It is a trifle early to sow the bulk of these, but Sweet Scabious and Asters should be sown now in moderate heat. Cuttings of Heliotrope, Lobelia, etc., should be pricked off or potted as they become rooted. Insert more cuttings if necessary. Charles Comfort (Formerly Head-gardener to Mrs. Haig, Broom- field, Davidson's Mains. Midlothian.) GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Erythrina Crista-galli.— Large specimens of this handsome plant are very useful for conserva- tory decoration. Where they have been stored away dry for the winter they may now be removed to a greenhouse and given a good soaking of water at the roots. An inch or 2ins. of the old soil should be removed from the surface of the pots or tubs, replacing it with a good rich compost. If it is desired to increase the stock of plants, it can easily be done by means of cuttings when the young shoots are about 3ms. in length. These root readily in a case with slight bottom-heat. This plant is also easily propagated by means of seed. Until they make a woody root-stock the young plants should not be dried off too much for several winters. This plant only requires cool greenhouse treatment during all stages of its cultivation. Begonia Gloire de Lorraine and its varieties should be propagated according to requirements and as suitable cuttings are available. Young shoots springing from the base of the old plants should be selected for cuttings, and are best inserted singly in thumb pots, afterwards plunging them in a warm propagating case. A late-rooted batch of plants grown in sixty-sized pots is very useful for table decoration. The American variety Mrs. Petersen has dark-coloured foliage which shews up well under artificial light. It is much slower growing than the ordinary type, and the plants are really at their best in their second year. All the Lorraine type of Begonia enjoy a light rich compost. Begonia semperflorens gigantea rosea. — It is surprising that this fine Begonia is not more generally grown for furnishing the greenhouse and conservatory, for by growing successional batches it may be had in flower more or less all the year round. It is easily propagated by means of cuttings, grows freely in an intermediate temperature of 50° to 55° and, when in flower, stands for a long time in an ordinary greenhouse. Abutilon insigne i~ an ideal plant for planting out in a conservatory and training on a rafter under the roof. If it never flowered it would still be worth growing for its large, dark green leaves. During winter and spring it produces its red, dark-veined flowers in wonderful profusion on long, slender, cord-like shoots. It is easily propa- gated by means of cuttings, and when planted out grows very quickly. After flowering it should be thinned out, retaining the young shoots for growing on. Abutilons generally are not rnuch grown at present. Still, some of them, such as Golden Fleece, Boule de Xeige and Firefly, are excellent for planting out in large conservatories, especially for covering walls. They are somewhat dense for the roof, and require to be kept well thinned out. Abutilon vexallarium and its variegated form are slender-growing plants well adapted for furnishing wires or rafters, as also is A. Milleri, a hybrid of the above species. They are all easily propagated by means of cuttings. Achimenes in many varieties are very useful and beautiful for furnishing the greenhouse during the summer months. The scaly rhizomes which have been stored dry all winter should now be started in a warm house, laying them in leaf-soil and sand in shallow boxes. When they have made growth some 3ins. in length they should be trans- ferred to pots or pans. Fine specimens may be grown in large, shallow pans, especially such strong- growing species as A. longiflora and its varieties. Some of the smaller-growing sorts will do well in 48-sized pots, while some of the more slender- growing varieties are excellent for baskets. These plants enjoy a well drained, light, rich compost, and should be grown in a temperature of 550 to 6o°, ghing them cooler treatment as they come into flower. They are very subject to attack by the Begonia mite, which, however, is easily pre- vented by the occasional use of the sulphur vaporiser. In recent years they have suffered very much from attacks of white fly. Fumigating with sodium cyanide is the best cure and pre- ventive, but as great care is required in the use of this extremely poisonous substance, many cultivators prefer to use one of the proprii articles offered for the purpose. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. J. Covtts. Greenhouse Painting & Glazing "VITROLITE" SUPERIOR TO WHITE LEAD. PRICE 18. '6 Per Gall. CANS EXTRA. "PLASTINE" THE IMPERISHABLE PUTTY. PRICE 32/- Per Cwt. KEGS EXTRA. 71b. TINS 4/3 EACH. 141b. TINS 5/6 EACH. Post Free. (Tins free.) Carriage Extra. WALTER CARSON & SONS, GROVE WORKS, BATTERSEA, S.W.II TELEPHONE NO.:— BATTERSEA, 1630 (2 lines). [March 3, 1923. THE GARDEN. IX. mj&zimfsmim&afrzzsgsss NOW IS THE TIME KELWAY'S Lovely GLADIOLI A S season succeeds season, lovers of the Gladiolus look forward with more interest than ever to the planting of this beautiful flower, but many are at a loss as to where to apply in order to procure corms which will produce the BEST results. Bulbs supplied by KELWAY'S are all fine strong specimens which will thrive in spite of severe conditions of climate and provide a grand show in the garden throughout the Autumn. Descriptive Catalogue post free on application. TO PLANT Kelwa1 of Langporr, Somerset Offer of collections of Jine named sorts : — Coll. 1 - 3/- doz. ; 226 per 100 ,, 3 - 7 6 „ 60- „ » 5 - 15- „ 120- „ ,, 7 - 30/- „ „ 8 - 42/- „ Collection 8 is equal to the choicest of those shown by us at Exhibitions. jg!^&gg§ESg Three Hardy Herbaceous Novelties of Sterling Merit GEUM LADY STRATHEDEN. — A clear Golden Yellow Mrs. Bradshaw. Vigorous habit, large double flowers and extremely free flowering. 2 feet. A.M., R.H.S. 1/6 each ; 16/- per doz. HELENIUM CRIMSON BEAUTY.— Bronze Crimson. A mass of bloom from July till September. 2 feet. 2/6 each ; 27/6 per doz. SIDALCEA SUSSEX BEAUTY.— Clear Satiny Pink, very free flowering, 4 feet high. 2/6 each ; 27/6 per doz. 3 each of above Novelties 18/- GENTIANA FARRERI.— The most gor- geous of all Gentians. The colour a wonderful Cambridge Blue. Grown in any moist garden soil, either in sun or shade. A.M. and F.C.C., R.H.S. 3/6 and 5/- each. Send for Descriptive Catalogue, post free. W. WELLS, dun. Hardy Plant Nurseries, MERSTHAM, SURREY 'Phone : Merstham 139. ■im ii.iiii.uu 1 TO LOVERS OF THE GARDEN BEAUTIFUL. OUR NEW EDITION of " HARDA' PLANTS WORTH GROWING" contains over 600 illustra- tions from photographs and much useful information in plain talk on Natural Gardening, Autumn Colours and Winter Berries, Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs, Plants for Rock, Dell, Glen, Bog, and Water Gardens, Shrubberies, Pergolas, Bare Places under Trees, &c. Copies may be had gratis on application. Orders Carriage Paid. V. N. GAUNTLETT & CO., Ltd., Japanese Nurseries, Chiddingfold, Surrey. PLANT NOW. Rhododendron ciliatum.— Bushy plants, well budded, 2/6, 3.6, 5/- each; 24/-, 30/- and 40/- dozen. Rhododendron sutchuenense. — Fine plants of this hand- some species, 10,6 each. Erica arborea.— Sweet-scented white-flowered Tree Heath, 1/-, 1/6 and 2/6 each ; 10/6, 13/- and 24/- dozen. Pinus Montezumse.— Well rooted specimens, 5/-, 7/6 and 10/6 each. Stranvassia Davidiana.— 3/6 and 5/- each. I Good berrying Stranvaesia undulata.— 1/6 and 2/6 each. I subjects. Ribes speciosum.— The scarlet Fuchsia-flowered Gooseberry, 3,6 each. , Enkianthus campanulatus.— Chocolate-coloured flowers in May, beautifully tinted foliage in autumn. 2/6, 5/- and 7/6 each : 24/- to 60/- dozen. Photinia variabilis.— The most brilliantly coloured fohage tree in autumn, 3/6 and 5/- each. Brooms, New Daisy Hill kinds.— Names, etc., on application. Lobelia Huntsman'.— The first of the scarlet cardinal flowers, 2/6 each ; 27/- dozen. Sidalcea "Rose Queen."— One of the best of hardy border plants, 1/- each ; 10/6 dozen. Mimulus Bartonianus.— Rose pink flowers from June to November. 1 /- each ; 10/6 dozen. Primula chionantha. — One of the best of recent introduc- tions. 2,6 each ; 27/- dozen. Orchis foliosa.— Finest form of the Madeira Orchid. 1/6, 2/6 each; 15/-, 21/- dozen. Tritoma nobilis (true).— 2/6 each. Tritoma modesta.— Pure white, 3/6, 5/- each. T. SMITH, Daisy Hill Nursery, Newry. WALLACES Spring Catalogue Is now ready and will be sent free on application. HARDY LILIES. Special Offer of a Magnificent Collection for immediate Planting or Potting. AURATUM. Golden Rayed Lily of Japan. 1/- each. LONGIFLORUM GIGANTEUM. Grand pure white Lily, producing stout dark stems, carrying from six to ten flowers, of great substance. 1 '- each. SPECIOSUM ALBUM. One of the most beautiful of all white Lilies. 1/- each. SPECIOSUM RUBRUM. Magnificent form with rose-coloured flowers, varying in depth of colour. 1/- each. TIGRINUM SPLENDENS. The finest of the Tiger Lilies, and the richest in colour. 8d. each. UMBELLATUM. Large heads of orange red flowers, very bright and pleasing, od. each. 1 each of the above for 4/6 3 „ „ , 12/- Delivered Free for cash with order. R. WALLACE & Co., LTD., Tunbridge Wells. THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923. SPIRi-EA PALMATA AND OTHERS JF I were doomed to grow but one herl sou Spiraea, my choice would lean towards that superb species named above, and few would question the assertion that this is one of the finest plants ever introduced to British gardens. S. palmata varies very widely in stature and the colour of the flowers, but the typical form is some 3ft. in height, the broad-leaved foliage, drooping from the many -branched .growths, being not less handsome than that of gigantea, to which it bears a close resemblance. Above this elegant mass of green, rise the flower-beads, these consisting of large, somewhat flat plumes of a vivid rosy red in which there is just enough chalkiness to soften the hue without dulling its brilliance. From plants in this colour one may see S. palmata in a variety of intermediate shades, to white, but the real S. palmata alba is no half- hearted affair. It is one of the whitest of its race, without a hint of blush or any other colour to mar its spotless purity. Though all forms of this species are suitable for semi-shade, I do not think S. p. alba ever looks so well as it does under trees, especially where it can be associated with Ferns and other native herbage of moist woods. A grouping of this variety in such a situation appeals to one as the very acme of quality and good taste. Nurserymen now list several forms of S. palmata, other than the above, and few of these are unworthy. The typical plant, however, looks best alone, in company with the pure white, or worked in with some other species which will not detract from its peculiar loveliness. On the other hand, there are forms of S. palmata which, since they differ only from the typical species in stature, may be accorded similar treatment and not less respect. Some of these being no more than 1 Sins, in height, yet bearing flower-heads as large and as richly coloured as full-sized specimens, are very useful where space is a consideration. From these intermediate forms we descend to the diminutive S. digitata, which, appears to be none other than a very dwarfed counterpart of S. palmata, with all the latter's brilliance of colour and an added touch of ruddy bronze in the foliage. What, exactly, S. digitata is perhaps no one knows, but most authorities believe it to be as stated. One thing, however, it certainly is not. I refer to the half-sized palmatas already mentioned and which sometimes bear the name of digitata. The true S. digitata is no more than 4ms. to sins, in height when growing in average soil, but it will aspire to rather greater dimensions where the living is especially to its liking. In any event it is a most charming little thing, easily pleased in any cool site and quite permanent and hardy. S. lobata (venusta) is also not infrequently sent out labelled digitata, but the former is some i8ins. to 24ms. in height. Its flowers are even brighter in colour than those of palmata, and to my eye their dazzling carmine contains just that touch of hardness in tone the absence of which seems to afford those of S. palmata their peculiar and distinctive loveliness. A. T. J. planted out in a well drained bed or border. It produces its fragrant white flowers very freely during winter and early spring. It is easily propa- gated by means of cuttings, which should be placed in a warm propagating case. This plant grows well in a compost of good medium loam, with the addi- tion of a little peat or leaf-soil and sand. In its younger stages it should be grown fairly warm. It will stand in a low temperature when in flower. Two Valuable Musks for the Greenhouse. — Mimulus glutinosus (syn. Diplacus glutinosus) is an old garden plant, which is by no means generally cultivated at the present day. The species has rather small yellow flowers and is by no means common, its place being taken by a larger flowered variety known as Sunbeam, and the variety coccineus or puniceus. They are all easily pro- pagated by means of cuttings made from young soft shoots, which root readily in a slightly heated case. They grow quickly in a cool greenhouse and are rather subject to attacks of green fly which, however, are easily prevented by occasional fumi- gations. M. Harrisonii is a large-flowered form of M. moschatus, which at one time was very largely grown in pots for the conservatory, as well as for planting outdoors during the summer months. It is, however, seldom seen at the present day, which is a pity, as it is a pretty and useful plant and its cultivation presents no more difficulty than the ordinary Musk. The latter for some unexplained reason has now lost its scent, and if any reader has or knows of a plant (or plants) with the old-time fragrance we should be pleased to hear from them. A Neat Dwarf Shrub.— Polygala Chamsbuxus is an interesting plant suitable for the rock garden, forming a compact evergreen tuft with cream- coloured flowers which are borne in profusion. The variety purpurea, however, is a great improve- ment on the type. It is a neat little shrub some 41ns. or sins, high, with dark green Box-like leaves and purple flowers with a yellow centre. Owing to the mild and open weather it has been more or less in flower since Christmas, and in mid-February the small plants of the variety purpurea were covered with blooms. A native of Central Europe, it should be planted in a cool, well drained position, such as near a large boulder, with peaty soil as a rooting medium. Soil which will grow Heaths or Rhododendrons will suit the Polygala. These plants are quite hardy, and they can be increased by division. Young growths are often available at the base of the plants, and if these are removed with a few roots attached they readily form nice little shrubs capable of taking care of themselves on the rock garden. On account of their flowering during the winter months they should be well represented in every garden. A Fragrant Warm House Plant.— That sweetly scented plant, Mitriostigma ascillare, is a native of Natal and although not likely to succeed in a cool greenhouse, it is well worth growing by anyone who has a warm greenhouse. It makes neat plants in pots, but perhaps is seen at its best when About Hop Manure.— The Editor has lately received several enquiries as to the efficacy of hop manure as a fertiliser. This is an old and proven manure which, years ago, he used by the boatload not only for gardening but for agricultural purposes. It never disappointed, and in dry seasons was invaluable. The proprietary article marketed by Messrs. Wakeley is drier and more pleasant to handle than the crude product from the brewery, also it appears more concentrated. There is no doubt that this is absolutely the best and cheapest substitute for stable manure, which it replaces in every way. If everyone who cannot get stable manure used hop manure there would be a shortage, but obviously they do not ! Fish Manure. — We have received from the Humber Fishing and Fish Manure Company, Limited, of Hull a copy of a very interesting letter recently received from the Principal of the Leyton- stone Council School setting out details of experi- ments made by the scholars with the Company's " Eclipse " Compound Fish Manure. Special reference is made to wonderful crops of Potatoes and Onions, and the schoolmaster gives it as his opinion that the boys who are going out into the world to earn their own living will be walking advertisements for this special manure. The Humber Fish Manure Company will be glad to send a copy of this unsolicited testimonial to any reader who , is interested, and in addition will send full particulars of the manure referred to. That this is a very good and reasonably priced manure the Editor knows from personal experience. It gives especially good results for root crops and for Chrysanthemums. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS THE GREENHOUSE. SCHIZANTHUS UNSATISFACTORY (A Oegular Header). — The Schizanthus has been kept rather too warm at some time. Kept in well ventilated conditions, properly watered, and at not too high a temperature for the available light, the plants should recover before long. TREATMENT OF PALM (A. G. S.).— Palms should not be over-potted and as our correspondent's specimen is of good colour there is not much wrong with it. A weak stimulant occasionally is beneficial. A weak liquid made from cow manure and used in a clear state, applying one dose each month during the summer and a teaspoonful of sulphate of ammonia dissolved in half a gallon of water and applied in June would help the growth of the fronds. The soil must always be maintained in a medium state of moisture, neither too wet nor too dry. Also, the plant should be taken outside once fortnightly and receive a good syringing. There would not be any need, then, to place the Palm in a nursery. FRUIT GARDEN. RASPBERRY LLOYD GEORGE (W. B., Hants.).— This variety is claimed to be perpetual-fruiting, that is, throughout the summer and autumn months. The fruit is borne on the young growths and also on the laterals, the latter bear the later or autumn crops. Our correspondent has done quite right in cutting down the old canes planted last autumn. MISCELLANEOUS. PLANTS SUITABLE FOR PAVING (E. E. BA— The following kinds of plants. will be suitable iu addition to the Saxifrages, Dianthus and Thyme : Acsena microphylla, Ajuga reptans, Antennaria tomentosa, Arabis, Aubriefia, Sedums and Sempervivurns. The following are annuals, and should be raised from seeds sown in boxes and duly transplanted : Leptosiphoh androsaceus, L. aureus, L. roseus, Saponaria calabrica, S. alba and Mcsembry- anthemum tricolor in various colours. NAMES OF PLANTS.— R. H. B., Cornwall.— 1, Azara microphylla ; 2, Phillynea decora ; 3, Prunus lusitanica ; 4, Buxns sempervireus ; 5, Olearia Haastii ; 6, Berberis Aquifolium ; 7, Skimmia japonica ; 8, Taxus baceata. " Wimbledon." — Helleborus corsicus (argutifolius). M. E. B., Woolston, — Crassula lycopodioides. This plant is a native of South Africa, and would not live out- side in the rock garden in this country. S. P. K., Cardiff. — Crocus Balans*. NAME OF FRUIT.— T. A. P.— Apple Xewton Wonder. PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED. Guide to the University Botanic Garden, Cambridge, by Humphrey Gilbert -Carter, Director of the Garden, Published by the Cambridge University Press, Fetter Lane, London, E.C.4. Price 3s. 6d. net. Messrs. Sutton and Sons, Heading. — Farmers' Year Book and Graziers' Manual. CATALOGUES RECEIVED. Messrs. Isaac Poad and Sous, Limited, Y'ork. — Seed Potatoes. Mr. Robert A. Morris, 225, Bristol Street, Birmingham. — Flower and Vegetable Seeds. Messrs. Allwood, Brothers, Wivelsfleld Xurserirs, Haywardfl Heath, Sussex. — Perpetual-flowering Carnat ions, per- petual Malmaisons, Perpetual " Borders," Allwoodii and Border Carnations. Messrs. John Forbes (Hawick), Limited, Hawick, Scotland. — General Plant and Seed List. Messrs. Stuart and Mein, Kelso, Scotland. — Flower and Vegetable Seeds. Messrs. Joseph Bentley, Limited, Chemical Works, Barrow-on-Humber, Hull. — Weedkillers, Lawn Sands, Insecticides, Fertilisers, Spraying Tackle and Garden Sundries. Messrs. Barr and Sons, 11-13, King Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.2 — Hardy Perennials, Rock Plants, Aquatics and Climbers. With useful lists of plants for sun and shade, for wall garden, wild garden and woodland, also those with grey foliage. Messrs. Robert Sydenham, Limited, Tenby Street, Birmingham. — Flower and Vegetable Seeds. Messrs. McHattieand Co., Chester. — Flower and Vegetable Seeds. March 3, 1923.] THE GARDEN. XI. A Profitable Currant. MERRYWEATHER'S 'SOUTHWELL RED' For SPRING PLANTING. Fruit growers should not miss planting this excellent variety. It flowers very late, and so escapes late frosts. Long bunches of bright shining red berries are formed, the individual berries being very large and uniform in size. When gathered it has a very fine appearance and commands the top price in the market. Price OQ. each; I/' per doz. Extra strong 1/- each; 10/" per doz. Collection of Roses COLLECTION D" Consisting of Twenty-four Dwarf Roses, specially selected to succeed in any position where Roses will grow, we can recommend all the varieties ; they will give pleasure in any garden. The Collection of Twenty- four Dwarf Roses, Carriage and Packing Free for the sum of 32/6 The Varieties are : — Duke of Edinburgh, H.P. J. B. Clarke, H.T. Caroline Testout, H.T. George Dickson, H.T. Mme. M, Soupert, H.T. Lady Ashtown, H.T. Mme. E. Herriott, H.T. Miss Willmott, H.T. Lieut. Chaure, H.T. Mrs. C. V. Haworth, H.T. Hugh Dickson, H.P. Gen. Jacqueminot, H.P. Gen. McArthur, H.T. Zephyrine Drouhin, 8. Gruss an Teplitz, H.T. Mme. A. Chatenay, H.T. Red Letter Day, H.T. Mme. Ravary, H T. Lady Hillingdon, T. Covent Garden, H.T. G. C. Waud, H.T. La Tosca, H.T. Richmond, H.T. Ophelia, H.T. Advice and quotations free. Send for Catalogue, post free on application. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, Ltd., Southwell, Notts. BOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. DOBBIE Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. & CO., Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, E Dl N BU RGH. BEAUTIFUL VELVETY LAWNS That is how they are often described in novels, but how- seldom do they come up to the ideal? Instead of being " velvety" they are often brown or patchy and full of weeds. What is the remedy for poor lawns ? Many things contribute, such as mowing, rolling and weeding, but the most important point is to regularly manure your lawn with a suitable Grass Manure, and the verv best preparation for the purpose is PEARSON'S ANTI-CLOVER MANURE which will discourage the growth of clover and weeds and will encourage the finer grasses. SEND FOR PRICES AND BOOKLET ON THE UPKEEP OF LAWNS AND PUTTING GREENS. J. R. Pearson & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. ESTABLISHED 1782. xu. THE GARDEN. "March 3, 1923. 1 THOMAS GREEN & SON, Ltd., Smithfield Ironworks, Leeds, and New Surrey Works, Sonthwark Street, London, S.E.I. SALE by AUCTION. 200 SPECIMENS of TO PI AR Y WO R K (CLIPPED BOX and YEWS) Unique and Old-world Garden Designs, GARDEN ORNAMENTS, GARDEN FURNITURE, BAMBOOS, OAK STAKES, TUBS, and other useful Garden Articles, by Messrs. PROTHERQE & MORRIS, 67 & 68, CHEAPSIDE, LONDON, E.C.2, On FRIDAY, MARCH 9th, 1923. Catalogues on application. *' hone: Bank S57. LETHORION Improved Nicotine Cone FUMIGATOR (Introduced 1885) Certain destruction to all pests in glass houses. Only a match required for starting it ! No. 1, for 1.000 cubic feet ... lOd. „ 2, ,, 1.500 1/3 ,. 3, ,. 2.500 1/9 Recistered Trade Mark 6293. Sold ov all Seedsmen TEN AX The Perfection Grafting & Budding Wax ' EI,i»*A The All-British Make. Highly recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society. J-lb., 9d.; i-lb., 1/6; lib.. 3/-; and in bulk. CORRY & CO., Ltd., Shad Thames, LONDON, SE.l THE DOG : MAN'S FIRMEST FRIEND.— How to choose and care for him, by A. Croxton Smith. A copy of this helpful booklet on the housing, breeding, feeding and care of dogs will be sent post free on receipt of lid., addressed to The Manager, " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. GLADIOLUS grown on the COTSWOLDS. The king of Autumn flowers, in recent years improved out of all knowledge both in size of spike and individual flowers. We grow and catalogue only the very pick of the varieties in cultivation, varieties that range in colour from deepest purple, brilliant scarlet and crimson, delicate pinks, apricot, lemon, orange, blue, lavender to paler tints of flesh and blush and pure white. No garden can afford to be without a selection of these magnificent flowers in August and September, bulbs of which should be ordered now direct from JOHN JEFFERIES & SON, Ltd., THE ROYAL NURSERIES, CIRENCESTER. ■■mi' *'"' ""," "iwm t-wwwWMWwuwwi i%m » ENGLISH NICOTINE. NICOTINE INSECTICIDES are by far the most efficient for destroying insects infesting plants and fruit trees, and perfect culture cannot be attained without the judicious use of Nicotine. Be sure the Nicotine Insecticide employed is Campbell's, made in their own English works, and guaranteed purest and best. CAMPBELL'S ENGLISH NICOTINE, 95-98 per cent, guaranteed, price on application. CAMPBELL'S NICO SOAP (Nicotine Soap). The best Potash Soft Soap, plus 7I per cent. Nicotine, unrivalled for syringing or spraying. Prices — Jib., 2/- ; lib., 4/- ; lolb., 32/-. CAMPBELL'S NICOTINE VAPORISING COMPOUND. Nicotine content, 50 per cent. Prices— ioz., 1/6; 40Z., 3/9; 8oz., 7/6; i pint, 9/-; 1 pint, 17/6; i gallon, 61/-. CAMPBELL'S NICOTINE FUMIGATING ROLLS, very simple and effective. Infoursizes, for 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 3,000 cubic feet. Prices — 7d., 10d., 1/6 and 2/- each. CAMPBELL'S PATENT SULPHUR VAPORISER. The best method of exterminating Mildew from plants in glasshouses. In two sizes, for 5,000 and 10,000 cubic feet. Prices — 18/- and 20/- each. CAMPBELL'S CAUSTIC ALKALI for the winter washing of dormant in and outdoor fruit trees. Prices— lib., 1/-; slb.: 4/-; iolb., 7/6. CAMPBELL'S LEMON OIL and WEEDKILLER, prices and particulars on application. Obtainable from Setdmien or direct from the Manufacturer, J. D. CAMPBELL, Nicotine Manufacturer, LUND STREET. CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER. FERTILISERS. Reduced prices : LAWNS, 20.; FRUIT TREES, VINES, 13/6; GENERAL GARDEN USE, 17/. WORM KILLER, newly introduced, 19/- ; Per cwt., carriage paid. Also all other fertilisers. HY. RICHARDSON & Skeldergate CO., Bridge Works, YORK. GLADIOLI. SITUATION VACANT. DRAUGHTSMAN (Junior) required for Horti- cultural Builder, Lancashire. State age, experience and wages required.— Address, Box, "Garden" Office. Vesey's Patent Universal Spreader EXCELLENT QUALITY AND MODERATE PRICES Descriptive List of Gladioli, LUiums, Begonias, etc., post free on application. 100 Gladioli, in 10 distinct named varieties, . . 8,6 50 „ „ 10 „ ., „ .. 4/9 100 Gladioli, in the finest mixture, .. .. 6'6 SO ,, „ , .... 3/9 ALL Carriage Paid. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. WILLIAM HELPS, Bulb Merchant, 11, Beechfield Rd., London, N. 4 CAMPING.— All Campers and lovers of out- door life should read " Camping," by J. Scott Moore, published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, YV.C.2 ; price 9d. net • by post, lid. CAULIFLOWER " MAY QUEEN." The fastest growing, quickest heading variety in existence. 1'lauted in March, large white heads may be cut during May and June. Autumn-sown plants, 3/6 per 100; 500 for 16/-; per 1,000, 30-. Carriage paid, with Cultural Hints. Seed, to sow for succession, 1,6 and 2,6 per packet. DANIELS &SON, Dept. G, Wymondham, Norfolk. This valuable and much needed Machine is adaptable for quickly and easily distributing all dry substance such as Manures, Lawn San.i, Lime, Common Sand, &c, &c, en Golf Links, Bowling Greens, Lawns, &c. W.C.I PRICE - £4 11 ' 6 For fall particulars apply fo- CORRY & CO., Ltd., ri e Iford Chambers, Covent Garden, LONDON [March 3, 1923. THE GARDEN. X1U. I Use Only Genuine High Grade Hose | FOR WEAR = Mr E. BANTING, the Florist of Shankl in, -_ = I. of W., writes Uth March, 1922 :— = = " i should like tin same Hose as purchased = H 5 years ago" ■ • ■ and = Messrs. LISTER KERSHAW, LTD., the = EE well-known Growers of Brighouse, Yorks, = = say : — =: = " We never had a Hos: like this .... = = 5 yearn in use— not the slightest sign = r= of wear." ~ = Our No. 4 Branded Hose. = 'per I 4 in. i in. I in. I to. = 60ft./ 33/6 39/9 4613 59/9 ^ = LIST AND SAMPLES FREE. r= F CHAS. P. KIN NELL & CO., LTD., | = 65, SOUTHWARK ST.. LONDON. S.E.I. = — "Phone Hop. 372. ri ^inuiinniminiiimnniiiiiiiiiminiiiiimiiiiiiiiiiirinini THE PATTISSON HORSE BOOTS FIG. 1.— Foe Shed Horses. I FlG. Z (Welted Pattern). FIG. U (No Welt lJattern).| ONCE TRIED, ALWAYS USED. SIMPLEST! STRONGEST! MOST ECONOMICAL ! Best English Leather or Rubber Soles. Used in tbe Royal and in thousands of the Principal Gardens. Orders for NEW BOOTS OR REPAIRS now despatched by return. Silver Medals:— Royal Horticultural Society- 1904 and 19U. Royal International Horticultural Exhibition, 1912. HUNDREDS OF TESTIMONIALS. Over 10,000 Sets used in the United Kingdom. Illustrated Price Lists from the Makers: — H. PATTISSON & Cd., Streatham. London. Tfou carft Di£ a Garden with good intentions and a hairpin. There has to be some honest spade-work. You can do your digging and weeding with anybody, but you have your little weakness like the rest of 'em ! You like to look as though you'd done it. A little perspiration, and good honest dirt thick up to the elbow. Well, and why not? Just walk about a little where the neighbours can see you, and then — KIT. KIT soap will clear every atom of dirt, grease, oil, paint or tar out of your hand, and will do it nearly twice as quickly as anything else. It is a nice " spready " sort of soap, so you need only a little. The tin is blue and orange (the handy shape and the handy size), and the lid comes off just when you want it. Keep a tin in the house for cleaning after " odd jobs."^ Price 6d. per Tin. LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. PERPETUAL CARNATIONS ILLUSTRATED — A thoroughly practical and well illustrated book on these beautiful and popular flowers, written by Laurence J. Cook, is now ready. Price 2/6 net, postage 4d. extra. It is published at the Offices of " Cor/NTKY Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. KT. 3—58. LEVER BROTHERS LIMITED, PORT SUNLIGHT. Y^mw^m^w THE GARDEN. [March 3, 1923. ••; MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instal a "Horse Shoe" with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardeners say so, and they ought to know. 38.000 Sold. Used in the R.H S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet E and quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«PKii\i\e11«C<>Ltd Southward St. LONDON. S.E "Look at his garden! " Yes, look at it. Did you ever see a finer show for this time of the year ? How is it he gets a profusion of early blooms weeks before anybody else ? Why is it that his vegetables and fruit-trees never fail? He looks after the soil— strengthens it with ECLIPSE Fish Manure. Plants want nourishment— food as well as water — and few soils contain all the nourishment required. ECLIPSE Fish Manure enriches the sml— gives you hardy plants, deep- coloured blooms, and a garden flowering continuously nearly all the year round ECLIPSE Fish Manure contains Phosphates, Nitrogen and t-otash in their proper p oportions. Being largely organic, it supplies humus to the soil. PRICES : 7 lbs. 14 lbs. 28 lbs 2/6 4/- 7/- 56 lbs. 112 lbs. 12/- 24/- Obtai'iable front all the leading Seedsmen or if sent by rail 7'- per package to be added towar ts carriage. THS HUMBER FISHING & FISH MANURE CO.. LTD, 9. Stoneferry. Hull. Q for GUARANTEED quality Seeds, Plants. Manures, Weed and Pest Killers, Lawn Improvers, Sporis WITH FREE PRACTICAL ADVICE ■A RITE TO Garden Supplies u? #H ... CRANMER STREET. LIVERPOOL AUCTION SALES BY PROTHEROE & MORRIS Every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY, of ROSES, AZALEAS & RHODODENDRONS, Herbaceous and Rock Plants, FRUIT TREES, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, BULBS, etc., At 67 & 68, Gheapside, London,E.C2 Write for Catalogues. 'Phone : Bank 857. Selected DUTCH BULBS, ROSES & PERENNIAL PLANTS FOR SPRING PLANTING. Descriptive Catalogue free on application. Delivery carriage paid. No Charge for Packing. JOHN B. VAN DER SCHOOT THE OLD-ESTABLISHED BULB FARMS (Own Bulb Farms over 400 Ai r^sl HILLEGOM, HOLLAND Telegrams : NARCISSUS, HILLEGOM ICJ 'garDEN FERTILISER Assist Nature by using VICKERS' GARDEN FERTILISER It is used extensively by Gardeners, Horticulturists, and Allotment Holders, and always gives complete satisfaction. CHEAPEST. BEST. AND MOST ECONOMICAL. G UA RA NTEED ANAL YSIS PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble SoliTble '"soluble Nitrogen rj«..^i*« Soluble A^n, P°'aS" Amm n,a (K20) Equal to Sulphate of Potash (K2S04) 18% 4% ( 3% 4% 4-85% 5% 9 25% A PERFECT PLANT FOOD FOR FRUIT, FLOWER, AND VEGETABLE GARDENS. Sold t>y the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. Packed in Sealed Bags, "lb. 2/-, lilb. 3/6, 28lb. 6/6, 56lb. 12,6, 1121b. 24,6 per Bag. If you have any difficulty in obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS <£ SONS, Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, W1DNES, LANCS. Largest Manufacturers of Flower Pots in the World. THE BEST AND CHEAPEST. SPECIAL POTS for Roses, Vines, Clematis, Orchids, and Chrysanthemums. Fancy Fern Pans Bulb Bowls, from 4d. each. and No Waiting ! All Orders executed the same day as received. State quantity of each size required, and have Carriage Paid quotation, or write for Illustrated Price List. RICHARD SANKEY & SON, LTD., Rny>il Potteries, BULWELL, NOTTINGHAM. WW^W* CELEBRATED MANURES Unrivalled for all Garden Crops. The result of over 50 years' practical experience in gardening— still first for quality and result s. Safe. Sure & Lasting. ASKycur SEEDSMAN far "THOMSON'S." Vine. Plant and Vegetable Manure— A per- fect Food— 1-cwt. 30/-, 5b-lbs. 17/-. 2S-lbs. 9/6. l-l-lbs.S/6 7-lbs. 3/-. tins 1/3 and 9d. Special Topdressing Manure— an excellent stimulant-56.lbs. 17/-. 'JK-lhs. 9.8, 1-Mbs. 5/6. 7-lbs. 3/-, tins 1/6. Carriage paid on 28-lbs. and up. Write for our }rne booklet; Sole Malters :-WM. THOMSON & SONS. Ltd., Clovenfords. Scotland. BENTLEY'S Concentrated Alkali (WINTER WASH) A highly effective and most popular Winter Wash for fruit and forest trees of every kind. In tins sufficient to make 22 gallons of Wash. 1 to 5 tins, 3/- each ; 8 tins, 2/10 each ; 12 tins, 2/8 each ; 20 tins, 2/6 each ; 40 tins, «!/4 each. Carriage paid on orders of 1S\- and up- wards to any station in Great Britain. Bentley's Weed Destroyers. Bentley's Fertilizers. Bentley's Insecticides. Bentley's Fungicides. General Horticultural Sundries. For Complete Illustrated Catalogue apply to Sole Manufacturers' : JOSEPH BENTLEY, Ltd. Chemical Works, BARROW - ON - HUMBER, HULL "BARROWS" PRUNER Special Features A perfectly easy and smooth "draw cut" action. Detachable Blades. The only pruner that does not pinch or squeeze the shoot. Black, 6/6. Spare Blades, Is. Od. each. Postage 7d, Sole Manufacturers: BURMAN & SONS, Ltd., Leebank Works, BIRMINGHAM. Published by " Country Life," Limited, at 20. Tavistock Street, Strand, W.C.2. and by Geprce Newnes. Li Printed by The Avenue Press, 55 & 57, Drury Lane, London, * hited, 8-11, Southampton Street, Strand, W.C.2. .C.2. THE ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND Vol. LXXXVII.— No. 2677. Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York, N.Y.. Post Office. Saturday, March 10, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription: Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign, 17)4 THIS IS THE PLANTING SEASON FOR THE PAMPAS GRASSES. MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN! FOR BEDS! FOR EXHIBITION! FOR EVERYWHERE! Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. Barr's Lilies and Gladioli FOR MARCH PLANTING. L ILIUM AURATUM, the white golden-rayed spotted Lily of Japan, bearing large sweetly scented flowers .. .. .. .. -■ strong bulbs, per dozen, 18/6 ; each 1,9 LILIUM HENRYI, grand autumn-flowering Lily .. .. per dozen, 21,- ; each 2/- LILIUM HANSON1, the Japanese yellow Martagon Lily, bright golden yellow spotted crimson-maroon per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- LILIUIVI SPECIOSUM ALBUM, handsome white flowers .. per dozen, 18/6 ; each 1/9 LILIUM SPECIOSUM MELPOMENE, fine handsome flowers, rich crimson, spotted purple-crimson and margined white . . . . . . . . per dozen, 25/- ; each 2/3 LILIUM UMBELLATUM, large orange-scarlet flowers, monster bulbs per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- GLADIOLUS Large-flowered Hybrids in Choice Mixture of many beautiful colours per 100, 32/6 J per dozen, 4/6 GLADIOLUS Hybrid Butterfly, Splendid Mixture, all very beautiful per 100, 25/- ; per dozen 3/6 GLADIOLUS PRIMULINUS, New Hybrids, Mixed, beautiful form and delicate colours per 100, 21 /- ; per dozen, 3/- Descriptive Catalogue of Lilies, Gladioli, Tigridias, etc., free on application. BADD O COMC 11, 12 & 13, KING STREET, Hr\R Ot OPSINS; COVENT GARDEN, LONDON, W.C.2. " T p PTDT JIT'IPTR " THE WORLD's BEST manure. 1— iLj rlxLJl 1 H-jIx First at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:— 1 cwt., 30/-; J-cwt., 16/6 ; 28 lbs., 9/-; 141bs., 5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CAUSTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wask Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Win. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONB, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND' PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NO RTH ROAD, ~\'Phonc HIGH GATE, N Hornsey 2868, 11. THE GARDEN. "THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE "March io, 1923. Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant* Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established 1797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Nurseries BEDFORD Strawberries and Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twerton Hill Nursery BATH DAWKINS 408, Kino's Road CHELSEA, S.W. Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. Book of Seeds now ready JOHN JEFFERIES & SON, LTD. The Royal Nurseries CIRENCESTER R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Gladiolus Specialists and Growers of Choice Strains of Vegetable and Flower Seeds Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. SE]g§]ggG]E]gB]gE]E]gElE]ri]E]g I KING'S ACRE ROSES S si El 0 El 01 El El El El El El noted for over a Century for hardiness and reliability. Useful alphabetically arranged Catalogue of more than usual interest, contain- ing helpful information, with Special Collections for all purposes. Free on request. Nurseries Established 1785 KING'S ACRE NURSERIES, Ltd. HEREFORD. ig m m m is 13 is ia is 13 13 13 Ul r-i=-«-lcrUKD. [[J] ElBIalsiaialalalalsElEilslalataialalS W "Tubs for shrubs. WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 1001 prizes. R.H S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak. Beech, Teak. etc. Highly decorative.-Price List from Pradal & Co. 26, Goodge Street, London, W.I Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-un-Humbek HULL. Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries HY. RICHARDSON & CO. Skeldergate Bridge Works YORK Lawn, Qarden, Fruit Trees, and Horticultural Fertilisers Landscape Gardening W. H. GAZE & SONS, Ltd. Garden Architects and Craftsmen, KINGSTON - ON -THAMES and at io, Conduit Street, W.\. Model Gardens and Nurseries "THE QAZEWAY," Surbiton, S.W. Sole Makers of the " All Weather " Hard Tennis Court. Crazy and rectangular Paving Stone loaded on rail ; Sundials, Garden Figures, etc.. in lead and stone. Write to W. Gaze* 19-23, High St„ Kingston-on-Thames, for Illustrated Catalogue 4D, or an appoint- ment to inspect the Model Gardens and Garden Furnishings at " The Gazeway." Kingston 3000 (6 lines) Mayfair 3973-1. J. CHEAL & SONS Ltd. Nurseries CRAWLEY HODSONS, LIMITED i4,Victoria St.,London,s.w.i & 58, Castlegate.Nottingham Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries CHISLEHURST, KENT WRITE ME Landscape and Qarden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street LEWES, SUSSEX New Gardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re-arranged. Plant- ing plans for borders, eta. Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries HIGHGATE, N.6 Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving tull cultural directions at competitive prices. Post Free, lif this paper is mentioned. D. T. BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton Is Fylde, Lanes. NOW READY. A book every Golfer will want PUTTING By^JACK WHITE. With Prefatory Notes by J. H. Taylor. James Braid. Alex. Herd. George Duncan, and a Commentary by Bernard Darwin. Freely Illustrated. 4/6 net; by post 4/1 O. Every Golfer who wishes to improve hU game should read what Jack White has to say about the subtle art of Putting. He is acknowledged to be the best putter In the professional ranks, and his book is full of invaluable, match- winning tips, for it Is on the green that matches are wen— or lost I Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limitf.p, 2u, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. (( FOGWILLS Best-Result" Seeds WILL GROW GET THIS FREE. IT TELLS ABOUT THE "SEEDS THAT ARE DIFFERENT." Post free with particulars of Free Seeds from FCGWILLS SEED HOUSE (Dept E), GUILDFORD. Established 70 years. {Continued from opposite page.) RARE ALPINES.— Oxalis adenophylla, Iris histrioides major, Parochetus, Pelargonium endlicherianum. Primula helodoxa, Sisyrinchium grandiflorum, Soldanellas and rare Saxifrages are all included in our Alpine Catalogue, post free. Herbaceous Catalogue and List of Hardy Orchids also free. — Bowell & Skarkatt, Nurseries, Cheltenham SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for cropping and Exhibition purposes. Thirty of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 1923. Post Free Copy on application. If interested, also ask for our Nursery List of Hardv Scotch Plants, Roses. Fruit Trees, etc.— Thyne & Son, Dept. G, Dundee. r WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus ! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small trees, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 19,6 per mile (full 1,760 yards). Send for trial lot or samples to-dav.— Green's Surplus Stokes, 205, Seymour Road, Lytham. LISSADELL NEW ALPINE & HERBACEOUS SUPPLEMENT is now with the printers, and will be posted to all customers shortly. Copies will be sent to others interested on receipt of a post card. — Manager, Lissadell, Sligo. ALPINES. — Rare Species and Garden Hybrids. List.— Miss Taylor, Quarry Orchard, Reigate. EGGS FOR HATCHING. — Utility, 7/6; better, 15/-; special, 20/- sitting. Day old Chicks, 30/- and 40/- doz. Wyandottes, Leghorns, Barnevelders, R.I. Reds, Black Wyandotte Bantams, White Runners, Magpie Ducks, Buff Orpington Ducks. List free. — Sydney Hiller, Cleveland Poultry Farm, Standon, Herts. SPECIALITIES FOR ALPINE LOVERS (Scotch grown). — Guaranteed true to name. Excerpts from our catalogue: — Canipulana Miranda, Gentiana Farreri, Meconopsis sinuata latifolia, Omphalodes Luciliae, Oxalis adenophvlla, Primula sphserocephala, P pseudo-capitata, P. Wanda, SUene quadrifolia. Prices on application to, and correspondence invited by Oliver & Hunter, Hardy Plant Specialists, Moniaive, Dumfriesshire. JERSEY GRAVEL.— The ideal gravel for paths and walks. Pleasing appearance. Binds well, remaining firm in both dry and wet weather. Wears well. — Summkrfield A Lano, Ltd., Berey's Buildings, George Street, Liverpool. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— List of varieties with prices on application. — Alexander Graham, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. MORRIS'S LIVE SEEDS (29th Season).— Reliable quality, reasonable prices. Full list of the worth- while varieties free. Shallots, 101b., 6'3 ; Onion Sets, 41b., 5 - Carr. paid. Scotch Seed Potatoes, finest grading, inspected stocks from 10.'- cwt.— Morris's, Seedhouse. 225. Bristol Street, Birmingham, GARDEN. z^j-^m WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials, Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— John Waterer Sons and Crisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey; Twyford, Berks; and Loudon. WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. — The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. x. WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15. — Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Requisites of all kinds. BARR'S FLOWER & VEGETABLE SEEDS, of finest selected strains and tested growth, also the best Scotch and Irish grown Seed Potatoes. Descriptive Catalogue free. SAVE THE RAIN WATER !— Strong, round chestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co. Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. — Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli. THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli is now ready. Send for particulars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, aud a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co.. Wakefield. STONE PAVING.— Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc., Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — HODSON AND SON, LTD., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. Wells & Co., Merstham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of flrst-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection Invited. Price list post free on application. — Thos. Rivers A Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridgeworth , Herts. FLOWER POTS.— io 8in., 15 6in., 15 5m., 15 4in., 15 3in., complete, packed free, 15s. Illustrated list of pots, saucers, seed and cutting pans, seakale and rhubarb pots, etc., free. — Thos. Jeavons, Potteries, Brierley Hill. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus. — Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. TURF FROM OLD PARK LAND FOR SALE. Quantities of 1 acre and upwards, £30 per acre. Buyer to cut and cart. — Lessons Farm, Chislehurst. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 ; Express, 2/8; Epicure, 2/-: Ashleaf, 2/9; Great Scot, 1/10; Arran Comrade, 1/9 ; Kerr's Pink, 1/8 ; Majestic, 2/- ; Rhoderick Dhu, 2/8 ; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early, 2/- ; Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K. of K., 2/- ; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward, 1/10 : Arran Chief, 1/9 ; T. W. & Co.. Plotholdcr, 2/9 ; Field Marshal, 2/6 ; Golden Wonder, 2/- ; Tinwald Perfection, 1/9 ; Ally, 21- ; Witchhill, 2/9 ; Bloomfleld, 2/-, etc. Carriage Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks, Onions, Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce, Radish, Celery, Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt., 2d., 3d. and fid. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries for Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Tulie, Whyts and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. TOMATO CULTIVATION : UNDER GLASS AND OUTDOORS. By R. GlFFAKD WOOLLET. A practical booklet by the Editor of The Garden, 9d. net, by post lid. Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. ___ STORING VEGETABLES AND FRUITS, with chapters on " Drying in the Oven and by the Kitchen Fire." By Herbert Cowley. 9d. net, by post lid. — Published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. BARR'S HARDY PERENNIALS, ALPINES, ROCK PLANTS, AQUATICS, CLIMBERS, etc., for Spring planting. Catalogue free. BARR'S LILIES, GLADIOLI, DAHLIAS, CANNAS, MONTBRETIAS, ANEMONES, BEGONIAS, TUBEROSES, Ac, for Spring planting. Catalogue free — Bare & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations can now be planted in any part of Great Britain. Rigid stems, perfect calyx, glorious scent. We have won more carnation awards of R.H.S. than any two firms together. Sow seed now, 2/6 and 5/- Plant list free. — J. Douglas, Edenside, Great Bookham. CONTENTS Grace in the Shrubbery Water and Bog Gardening — III Lilies of a Decade : 1912-1922. . The Border Carnation Spring Flowers at Vincent Square New and Rare Plants Ideal Home Exhibition Gardens . . What is a Moraine ? A New Evergreen Flowering Shrub Tozvn Gardens Correspondence Gardening of the Week Gardening at the British Empire Exhibi tion (1924) About Damping Off Obituary : Rev. W. Wilks Answers to Correspondents ILLUSTRATIONS Arctostaphylos Mansamta Buddleia variabilis ampleformis . . Carnation (Border) Viceroy Cineraria Sutton's Forget-me-not Blue . Codonopsis ovata Crocus Cloth of Silver Cytisus prcecox . . ... Lilium centifolium . . L. philippinense formosamun , Price's variety Narcissus Golden Herald . . Nympheea stcllata Outdoors Philadelphus Coupe d' Argent Rhododendron ciliicalyx Tozvn Garden Plan Viburnum tomentosum plicatum PAGE "5 117 118 119 120 121 121 122 122 123 124 126 127 127 128 128 122 116 119 120 124 125 116 118 118 121 117 Il6 I20 123 "5 SUTTON'S VEGETABLE SEEDS. TOMATO, SUTTON'S BEST OF ALL' Secured the Guernsey Growers' Association Challenge Cup for the best Tomato grown in 1922. The judges' report says : ". . . held seven to eight trusses . . containing from seven to ten fruits. . . . fruit quite firm and the colour excellent." Per pkt., 1/9, 2/6, and 3 6. SUTTON & SONS, THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, READING. NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S LOVELY P/EONIES and the KELWAY COLOUR BORDERS, which include our world- famous Delphiniums, Pyrethrums, Lupines. Gaillardias, Phloxes, Pseonies, etc. Fine collection of Flowering Shrubs and Roses now ready. — Write for descriptive Catalogues to KELWAY AND SON, The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. DOBBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH, will send a copy of their 1923 Catalogue anil Guide to Gardening, free, if this paper is mentioned. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS.— New Illustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plants is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies. — (Dept. E) K. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) free.— Moof.ton. 65, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PERRY'S SPECIAL OFFER OF JAPANESE LILIES, GLADIOLUS, MONTBRETIAS. Perry's Seed Cata- logue now ready. — Hardy Plant Farm. Enfield. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior & Son, Ltd., Colchester. LAXTON'S SEEDS AND FRUIT TREES.— Catalogues (mention which required), containing novelties and all the old favourites, can be had on application. — Laxton Brothers, Seed Merchants, Bedford. PRIVET & THORN. Heathers and Alpines. Send for List 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. Also Rhododendrons, HODSONS LmiTBD, ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection oi the best Vegetable and choicest strains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices, is now ready and will be sent free on application. — J. R. PE arpon & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvers Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91. ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free. Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 16, Morden Rd., Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a perfect fertiliser ; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars.— William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. HEATING APPARATUS FOR GREEN- HOUSES, VINERIES, etc., complete with various arrange- ments of pipes to suit any size or shape house. Vanguard, Conical, Sectional, Saddle and Coil Boilers. Pipes, Joints, Fittings, etc. Illustrated lists free.— Thomas Ji-avons, Silver End Boiler Works, Brierley Hill. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10/6 each Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chichester. SHOW AND REGAL PELARGONIUMS.— Strong, clean, healthy plants from Sin. pots. 12 fine named varieties, 7/6. Newer ones, 10/- and 12/- per dozen. Novelties of 1920, 15/- per dozen. All free by parcel post for cash with order, or carriage paid per passenger train in Leatherboard pots, 2/0 per dozen extra. Catalogues extra. — J. W. COLE A Son, ALidland Road Nursery, Peterborough. SEEDS OR TINY SEEDLINGS TO REPLACE SEEDS.— NO WORRY I NO DISAPPOINTMENTS I Millions ready for distribution at correct dates. Begonia, Celosia, Cineraria, Primula obconica, etc. Auricula, Aquilegia, Carnation, Cowslip, Polyanthus, Pansy, etc. Choicest Sweet Peas in Seeds and Plants. Stocks, Asters and other Bedding Annuals. Catalogue on application sent free if this paper is mentioned. — Storrie & Storrie, Flower Seed Specialists, Glencarse, Perthshire. ROCK PLANTS, best varieties, inexpensive. List free. — Marion Glepstanes, Fardross, Clogher, Ireland. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wirework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists. — Bouxton and Paul, Limited, Norwich. CHOICE PERENNIALS AT PRE-WAR PRICES. — Delphiniums, prize strain, 4/6; Cheiranthus Allionii, 2/6; Geum, Mrs. Bradshaw, 4/6; Carnation, Raby Castle, best salmon, 5/-; Polyanthus, monster hybrids, 2/6; Giant Pink Bedding Daisies, 2/-; Viola, Maggie' Mott, 2/6; Michaelmas- Daisies, latest and named varieties, 4/6 ; Choice Alpines, 5/- ; all per dozen. Catalogues free. 10/6 orders carriage paid. — ljr.AMBLEBUKY Xurseries. Bude. Cornwall. GREENHOUSE PAINTING AND GLAZING. — " Vitrolite," superior to White Lead Paint, 18/6 per gallon ; 1 ans extra. " Plastine," the Imperishable Putty, 32/- per cwt. ; kegs extra ; 71b. tins, 4/3, post free. 14lb. tins, 5/6 each, carriage extra, tins free. — Full particulars from W. Carson and Sons, Grove Works Battersea. IV. THE GARDEN. [March io, 1923. EVERYTHI NG FOR THE GARDEN & LAWN SUPPLIED BY FLOWER SEEDS. VEGETABLE SEEDS, LAWN GRASS SEEDS, FERTILISERS, WORMKILLER, Etc. ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE of SEEDS Now Ready. Write for a Copy. JAMES CARTER & Co., SEEDSMEN to H.M. THE KING. RAYNES PARK, LONDON, S.W. Branches : — 237 & 238. HIGH HOtBORN, W.C.I 53a. QUEEN VICTORIA STREET, E.C.4. Bar LAST POST GAME TO-NIGHT YOUR application f<>r our FREE "GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM AND GUARANTEED GARDEN SEEDS" had not come to hand, and our supply is becoming limited. Just send a post card fco-day, and that will ensure your receiving .1 free copy at once. It is replete with illustrations and useful information, and EVERY packet of Seeds ordered tlu-nre MUST mow for you and please you, or you will set it replaced freely. No obligation of any sort, but address us personally : T00G00D & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and Growers or "Better Crops " Seeds only, SOUTHAMPTON. n T b. 12 „ 27 6 7 L c, 6 . latesl novelties „ 30 - Cultural Booklet, 6d. post free Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation. Fully illustrated and described in our Catalogue. SENT WITH PLEASURE. When yon think or Carnations yon think of The leading Cain.it ion Raisers & Spe* I in the world. CU&4f+r*t^l?Z2 Hay wards Heath, Sussex. March io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. "That's the kind garden I'd like " of Strong hardy plants, flowering nearly all the year round, as fine a bed of veget- ables as you'll find within a few miles, and fruit trees that never fail. I can't get anything like the same results in my garden." But you can. Use ECLIPSE Fish Manure and you will. Think a minute. Realise that you're starving your plants and trees. The soil is poor. It gives lnsunicient nourishment, It lacks certain essen- tial properties without which plants cannot thrive. Enrich the soil with ECLIPSE Fish Manure— and you 11 get hardier plants, a profus- ion of deep-ricb-coloured blooms and a good crop of fruit and vegetables, year after year. ECLIPSE Fish Manure contains Phosphates, Nitrogen and Potash, in their proper proportions. Being largely organic, it supplies humus to tJie soil. PRICES: 7 lbs. 14 lbs. 28 lbs. 56 lbs. 112 lbs. 3 6 41- 7/. 12/. 24/- b^Tif'J'T 1" "" 'e"ding Seedsmen, or if sent By rail 11- per package to be added towards carriage. THE HUMBER FISHING & FISH MANURE CO., LTD., 9. Stone/erry. Hull. *^*^*«iiw-»^i„mn> iw'1" ■! FRUIT TREES require Nourishment. Fruit trees obey the same laws of growth as all other vegetations, and it is necessary that their food supply should be correct and regular. Read the special pamphlets, " The Manuring of Orchards and Fruit Trees." "Successful Gardens for Every Amateur." supplied gratis and post free by THE CHILEAN NITRA TE COMMITTEE. Friars House. New Broad Street, London, E.C. 2. GLADIOLUS grown on the COTSWOLDS. The king of Autumn flowers, in recent years improved out of all knowledge both in size of spike and individual flowers. We grow and catalogue only the very pick of the varieties in cultivation, varieties that range in colour from deepest purple, brilliant scarlet and crimson, delicate pinks, apricot, lemon, orange, blue, lavender to paler tints of flesh and blush and pure white. No garden can afford to be without a selection of these magnificent flowers in August and September, bulbs of which should be ordered now direct from JOHN JEFFER1ES & SON, Ltd., THE ROYAL NURSERIES, CIRENCESTER. Forbes' Catalogue Carnations. Pelargoniums. Pentstemons. Phloxes. Pyrethrums. Violas. Hardy Border and Rock Plants. Seeds, etc. FREE ON APPLICATION. JOHN FORBES (Hawick) Limited, The King's Nurserymen, Hawick, Scotland. LETHORION Improved Nicotine Cone FUMIGATOR (Introduced 1885) Certain destruction to ; in glass houses. pests Only a match required for starting it ! No. 1, for 1,000 cubic feet ... lOd. ,. 2. „ 1,500 1/3 „ 3, ,, 2,500 1/9 Sold by all Seedsmen. TENAX The Perfection Grafting & Budding Wax L.I^#-4SV The A,i_Britjsh Make Highly recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society. i-lb., 9d.; i-lb., 1/6; lib., 3/-; and in bulk. CORRY & CO., Ltd., Shad Thames, LONDON, SE.l Registered Trade Mark 6295. BEAUTIFUL VELVETY LAWNS That is how they are often described in novels, but how seldom do they come up to the ideal ? Instead of being " velvety " they are often brown or patchy and full of weeds. What is the remedy for poor lawns ? Many things contribute, such as mowing, rolling and weeding, but the most important point is to regularly manure your lawn with a suitable Grass Manure, and the very best preparation for the purpose is PEARSON'S ANTI-GLOVER MANURE which will discourage the growth of clover and weeds and will encourage the finer grasses. SEND FOR PRICES AND BOOKLET ON THE UPKEEP OF LAWNS AND PUTTING GREENS. J. R. Pearson & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. ESTABLISHED 1782. I VI. THE GARDEN. [March io, 1923. WATERER'S GREAT SIXPENNY Clearance Sale OF ONE MILLION Hardy Perennial &Alpine Plants For the Border, Rock Garden, Streamside, Woodland, Wild Garden, Shrubbery, etc., including 50,000 DELPHINIUMS at greatly reduced rates, all to flower this year. Descriptive Sale Catalogue on application. JOHN WATERER, SONS & CRISP, Ltd., (Dept. G), TWYFORD, BERKS. LOWE tf* HERBERT'S NEW PINKS Have received Eight Awards of Merit and Gold Medals. I was also personally congratulated by Their Majesties the King and Queen at the R.H.S. Show, Chelsea. 12 CARNATIONS, Gold Medal Strain for 6/6 J- rice List free on aprlicatxon. C. H. HERBERT, Nurseryman, ACOCK'S GREEN, BIRMINGHAM. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN. Catalogue Free on application. C. ENGELMANN, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. The Culture of Chrysanthemums By H. WELLS. Freely Illustrated. Paper Covers, 2/6 net; Cloth, 3/6 net; By post 4d. extra. Published at the Offices of "Country Life," Ltd., 20, Tavistock Street, W.C.2. 35th SEASON. MRS. PYM'S FAMOUS PLANTS Orders 3/- and over Post Free or Carriage Paid, Passenger Train. 4d. extra for orders under 3/-. The following prices are all per dozen (half or quarter dozen same rate). CASH WITH ORDER. Plant now for good show of bloom this year, and improve every year. Strong, hardy perennial, transplanted plants. Achillea ptarmica, double white, 3/-. Aconitum, large Salmon Queen, 6/-. Lychnis chalcedonica, scarlet Jerusalem tall blue, 6/-. Agrostemma Flos-jovis, crimson, 3/-. Alyssum, cross, 6/-. Lychnis coronaria, silvery foliage, crimson Gold Dust, 3/-. Alpine Pinks, brilliant colours, 3/-. Alpine flowers, 3/-. Malva moschata. musk scented, large, pink or white, Pinks, white or bright pink, creeping, 4/-. Anchusa italica, 4/-. Monarda (Bergamot), Cambridge Scarlet, 6/-. Onopordon tall, deep amethyst blue, 4/6. Anchusa Dropmore, large blue 6/-. Anchusa myosotidiflora, masses of deep gentian blue white eye, lovely for rockery, 6/-. Achillea, Perry's Double handsome Thistle, 6,'-. Pansies, best large-flowering BugnoU, Bismarck, Masterpiece, etc., also separate colours for bedding, purple, white, light and dark blue, Golden Queen, red, White, 6/-. Achillea Ke'lwayi, fine crimson, and Cerise yellow, 1/6. Pansy, Coquette de Polssey, lovely bedding Queen, 6/-. Alpine Wallflowers, yellow or orange, 1/4 ; lovely bright new mauve, very effective, 1/9. Alstrcemeria mauve, 1/10. Pulmonaria (Jerusalem blue Cowslip), very rare, large two year old roots, 12/-. Papaver Oriental Queen, (Peruvian Lily), orange and flame, 6/-. Alyssum montanum, extremely handsome, 6/-. Papaver pilosum. showy orange-red) rare Alpine, fragrant, bright yellow, summer flowering. 6/-. 3/-. Passion Flowers, hardy blue and white, 12/-. Pent- Antirrhinums, new large-flowering, in all the new art colours, stemon, lovely large - flowering and scarlet, 6/-. Pentstemon separate or mixed, strong bushy, autumn sown and transplanted, gentianoides blue shades, 4/-. Periwinkle, large blue, 2/8. Antirrhinums, strong autumn sown, best mixed (not evergreen, 4/-. Pea, Everlasting, white, pink, red, 6/-. Pinks, transplanted), 1/6. Anthemis Kelwayi, fine golden yellow, coloured, 1/9. Potentilla, double crimson, 4'-. Primulas, 4/-. Anthemis styriaca, for rockery, silvery foliage, white lovely hardy varieties, assorted, for rockeries, bogs, borders, etc., flowers, 6/-. 5/-. Paeonies, 9/-. Phlox, separate colours, 6/-. Polyanthus, Aubrietia, rich purple, 2/8. Aubrietia, new large-flowering best large flowering, one year old, 2/6. Pyrethrum, Kelwav's hybrids, 4/-. Auricula alpinus, lovely varieties, 4/6. Balm, hybrids, 4/-. Primrose, blue, one year old, 6/-. Rockery fragrant. 4/-. Brompton Stocks, one year old plants, Gems: Primula rosea, bright pink, and Primula denticulata, Sinkins, large fragrant, double white, 6/-, Rose Campion, deep crimsoD, 3/-. Sweet Rocket, 3/-. Rud- beckia Newmanii superba, 6/-. Rudbeckia Golden Ball, double, 6/-. Salvia Argentea, strikingly beautiful silvery leaves Scarlet Giant and mixed, 3/-; strong autumn sown (not large heads, lilac-mauve, strong plants, 6/-. Pinks, -Mix. transplanted), 1/6. Campanulas, dwarf rockerv, etc., blue = or white, 6/- ; tall, 4/-; pyramidalis, two year old, 6?-. Canter- bury Bells, year old, single, white, blue or mixed hybrids, 1/6; double pink, white, blue, and single pink, also cup and saucer, mixed colours, 3/-. Candytuft "(perennial), masses of lilac or in large rosettes, pinkish-white flowers, 4/-. Saponaria white, charming for rockery, 6/-. Carnation, good border, ocymoides, dwarf trailing, 3/-. Saxifraga, mossy, crimson 3/-. Carnation Grenadin, grand border variety, profusion of or pink flowering, 6/-. Saxifraga, white, 4/-. Sweet large brilliant scarlet double flowers, large plants, 3/6. Scabious, enormous blooms, dwarf or tall, fragrant, 2/6. Centaureamontana (perennial Cornflower), large fringed blooms, Scabiosa caucasica, large exquisite mauve flowers, large two blue, white, mauve and new pink, 4/6. Cheiranthus (Siberian year old plants, 12/-. Shasta Daisy, 3/-. Sedum hybridum Wallflower), 1/4. Chelone barbata (lobster flower), 4/-. Chrysan- rubrum, 4/-. Silene compacta, pink, 1/4. Solidago Golden themums, strong rooted cuttings, early, mid or late, best Wings. 6/-. Solomon's Seal, 3/-. Stachys (Lamb's Wool), 3-. varieties, 3/6. Chrysanthemum maximum (Ox-eye Daisies), Star of Bethlehem, 1/6. Sweet William, choice hybrids, enormous bloom, in flower for months, californica, Mrs. Lothian double and single, 1/6; new Scarlet Beauty, Pink Beauty, Bell, Robinsooi, etc., 3/-. Chinese Pinks, lovely colours, 3/-. Crimson Beauty and Double White, 3'-. Cistus (Kock Rose), charming for rockery, bright flowers, in Thalictrum, hardy Maidenhair, 3/-. Thrift, compact pink trails, 3/-. Coreopsis grandiflora, 3/-. Cornflowers, Kelway's, flowering 2/-. Tritoma (Red-hot Poker), 6/-. Tussilago blue, 1/6. Daisies, new bedding, enormous blooms, intensely (Winter Heliotrope), very fragrant. 6/-. Tunica Saxifrages, double, pink or white, 1/6 ; crimson quilled, 1/9. Delphinium, edging or rockery, 3/-. Verbascum, large tall golden yellow, 6/-. beautiful hybrids, one year plants," 6/-. named, large two year old roots, 12/-. lovely pink and white hybrids for pots or border, spray of lovely bloom, 12/-. Dianthus, new large-flowering beddiug varieties, double or single, all colours, 1/9 ; very dwarf, compact and creeping for rockeries, 3/-. Evening Prim- rose Afterglow, lovely new perennial variety, large vellow, 4/ Delphinium, best Valerian, crimson, 3/-. Veronica gentianoides, dwarf, and Deutzia Lemoinei, spicata, tall blue, 4/-. Violas, Bath's bedding, from seed, yellow, blue, purple, white, mauve and good mixed, 1/9. Siberian and Alpine Wallflowers, for rockeries, edgiug old walls, etc., in flower for months, very bright and pretty, 4/- 100. Strong Vegetable and Herb Plants, from open ground- Asparagus, ivelway's Giant, two year old roots, 7/- 100 ; Erica, bright flowery evergreen, alpine heath, 'lovely for tnree years, 10/- 100. Sage, Thyme, Mint, Marjoram rockery, pots, etc., large plants, full of bud, 9/-. Erigeron stenactis superba, mauve, 4/-. Erysimum Golden Gem, charming for rockery, old walls, etc., 1/4. Forget-me-nots Myosotis alpestris vitora, large- flowering, dwarf, blue, 1/6 fine deep Indigo or royal blue, 1/6. Foxgloves, new gloxinia- 3/- doz. Parsley, best curled. 1/4 doz. Spring Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Cos' and Cabbage Lettuce, Leeks, Cauli- flower, Winter Tripoli Onions, Pickling Cabbage, 1/9 100. Seakale, strong, year old roots, 15/- 100. Strong Transplanted Plants for Cool Greenhouse, etc. noweretl, yellow or white, 2/8 ; lvorys, spotted or purpurea, 1/6. AU per dozen, half or quarter dozen same rate. Agapanthus French Honeysuckle (not a climber), trusses, rich red flowers, (blue African Lily), 6/-. Agatha ca-lestis, lovely shrubby blue 4/-. Fuchsia, hardy crimson bush, 6/-. Funkia (Corfu Lily), Marguerite, pots or bedding, 3/-. Aralia (Fig Palm), 6/-. lovely pure white, scented, 8/-. Qaillardia grandiflora, beautiful Asparagus Fern, erector trailing, 6/-. Begonias, evergreen, new hybrids, 3/-. Qalega (Goat's Rue), mauve or white, perpetual flowering, 4/-. Beauty Stocks, fragrant earlv 4/-. excellent for cut bloom, 3/-. Geum Mrs. Bradshaw, large double Bridal Wreath, 6/-. Cannas, lovclv hybrids, 6/-. Celsia scarlet, large three year old, 12/-; Glory, very fine double scarlet, cretlca, charming perennial pot plant, showing spikes b/; coccineum, semi-double, bright scarlet, 4/-. Gladiolus, best vellow and mauve, 4/-. Cinerarias, exhibition and large-flowering hybrids, many lovely new sorts, 1/9. Qypso- stellata, 3/-. Cobeea scandens, rapid climber, large purple plula paniculata, well known gauze flower, 4/-; glabrata, flowers, 9/-. Cyclamen, choice strain, 8/-. Deutzia gracilis, dwarf, for rockery, etc., 1,9. Harpalium (perennial Sunflowers), pink or white, splendid shrub for pots, etc., soon be a mas9 of best sorts, 3/-. Hemerocallis, beautiful hardy lily, large bloom, large plants, 12/-. Eucalyptus, 4/-. Fuchsias, choice, tawny, orange and yellow, 6/-. Heuchera sanguines 5/-. Heliotrope, 5/-. Lily of the Valley, 3/-. Lobelia, splendens, 6/-. Helianthemum (Sun Roses), bright colours, cardinalis Queen Victoria, 6/-. White and yellow Marguerites, for rockery, 4/-. Hesperis (Dame's Violet), flne spikes, if-. Wtutc or crimson Tobacco, 3/-. Passion Flower, 9/-. fragrant, purple or white, 3/-. Primulas: Obconica, new giant, lovely colours, 6/-; Hollyhock, doubles, 6/-; single and semi-double, 4/-. Hyperi- malacoides, showing bud, great favourite for cut bloom, cum (St. John s Wort), large yellow flowers, evergreen foliage, 4/-; sinensis, all colours: kewensis, yellow; cortusoides, creeping 4/-. Iceland Poppies, Excelsior strain, 3/-. Indian bright rose; cashmeriana, rich purple; denticulata, large Pinks, 2/8. Ins, large Flag, separate colours, white, mauve, heads, lilac, pots or rockery, 4/-. Rehmannia, pink yellow, blue, purple, 6/-; mixed, 4/6. Irispumila, forrockery, 4/-. trumpet, 6/-. Salvia Scarlet Zurich, 6/-: coccinea, 4/-. Iris hispanica (Poor Man's Orchid), lovely for cutting, 3/-. Isatis Saxifraga sarmentosa, trailing, 4/-. Smilax, trailing, 4/-. (Woad), rare handsome border plant, 4/-. Kniphophia Streptocarpus, beautiful new hybrids, lovely Cape Primrose, 6/-. (lorch Luy), 6/-. Lavender, fragrant, Old English, sturdy, Strong Hardy Climbers. Ampelopsis Veitrhii, self bushy, two year old, 6/-. Lily of the Valley, strong flowering climbing, small leaf, large roots, several trails, each 2/-. Clematis crowns, 3/-. Linum, lovely blue Flax, 3/-. Linaria dalmatica, Traveller's Joy and Flammula (Virgin's Bower), whit*, rapid spikes yellow, blotched orange, 3/-. Lobelia cardinalis, tall climbers, large two vear roots, 2/- each. Honeysuckle, very spikes, rich scarlet, 4/-. Lupin, Tree, yellow or white, 6/-. fine red-flowering Dutch, large plants, 3/- each. Wistaria Lupin polyphyflus, pink, 4/- ; blue or white, 2/8. Lychnis, new sinensis, large racemes of bluish-lilac flowers, 3/6 each. Mrs. PYM, F.R.H.S., 10, Vine House, Woodston, Peterborough CAULIFLOWER " MAY QUERN." The fastest growing, quickest heading variety in existence. Planted in March, large white heads mav be cut during May and June. Autumn-sown plants, 3/6 per 100; 500 for 16/- ; per 1,000, 30'-. Carriage paid, with Cultural Hints. Seed, to sow for succession, 1 /6 and 2/6 per packet. DANIELS & SON, Dept. G. Wymondham, Norfolk. CAMPING.— All Campers and lovers of out- door life should read " Camping," by J. Scott Moore, published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, W.C2 ; price 9d. net ; by post, lid. HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet by Owen Thomas, v.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Country Life " Offices, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. FERTILISERS. Reduced prices : LAWNS, 20/.; FRUIT TREES, VINES, 19/6; GENERAL GARDEN USE, 17 WORM KILLER, newly introduced, 19/. ; Per cwt., carriage paid. Also all other fertilisers. HY. RICHARDSON & CO., Skoldergate Bridge Works, YORK. March io, 1923.] THE GARDEN. 127 THE BRITISH EMPIRE EXHIBITION We have received the following from Mr. Wm. Watson, Secretary of the Horticultural Committee of the above Exhibition : IT was clearly evident at the two meetings of horticultural traders held recently in London, one at the Board of Trade on January 30, the other at the hall of the Royal Horti- cultural Society on the 13th ult., that the great purpose of the British Empire Exhibition to be held at Wembley Park in 1924 is not grasped. The Exhibition was " designed to furnish a display of the natural resources of the various countries within the Empire and the activities, industrial and social, of their peoples." At Wembley Park arrangements are being made on a scale which will enable this to be done. The resources of every part will be mutually displayed there. Producers will find markets, markets will find producers. Sufficient progress has been made already to satisfy the management of the Exhibition that the whole Empire, commercially speaking, will be at Wembley Our Overseas Dominions, Colonies and Depen- dencies are preparing for a display of their products to an extent that has already exceeded all expecta- tions. There is every prospect that this Exhibition will surpass all others ever held in this country in magnitude and interest, and that it will afford opportunities for trade development that have never before been attempted. So much for the Exhibition generally. Let us now consider how the project should appeal to horticulturists and to the horticultural trade generally. Preparations are being made on an elaborate scale which will afford exhibitors in every department of the industry a splendid chance of demonstrating how the United Kingdom stands with respect to horticulture. That it occupies an important position among the great industries of the country is abundantly evident. Have we sufficient enterprise to seize the great opportunity which the Exhibition will afford to inform the world what horticulture means to us, what our breeders and growers are in a position to supply ? The object of the Exhibition is to enable them to do this on a scale that has never been attempted before. At the great International Exhibition held in Hyde Park in 1851 horticulture was scarcely represented, notwithstanding the fact that Sir Joseph Paxton was on the executive. No such oversight will take place at Wembley in 1924 if the facilities provided there at very considerable outlav by the Exhibition management are made adequate use of. The Horticultural Committee is composed of sixteen representative men, Mr. William Cuth- bertson being chairman, and potential exhibitors may rest assured that the efforts of this Committee are on very commendable lines. A Sub-Committee looks after the interests of sundriesmen, including horticultural builders, machine makers and engi- neers, and it is intended to appoint a Press Com- mittee for publicity purposes. A hundred leading men. including amateurs, traders and scientific workers in horticulture, have accepted an invitation to form a Horticultural Council, with Lord Lambourne as president. Although the Royal Horticultural Society does not appear to be willing to hold the May Exhibition in 1924 at Wembley instead of at Chelsea, we are assured that the Society has the interests of the British Empire Exhibition at heart and that the Council intends to take an active part in the efforts being put forward to make horticulture at Wembley a big success. This is as it should be, and we hope that other societies will also co-operate in the same spirit. The permanent features, such as formal and rock gardens, the beds and borders of shrubs, Roses, hardy herbaceous perennials, etc, will !"■ additional to the special exhibitions which the management desire to hold at Weinbley. It is also hoped to provide exhibits of growing fruit trees shewing correct method of planting, pruning and training, and plots of vegetables under the control of expert cultivators. Another unique feature will be provided by India, the Dominions and Dependencies, which intend to have gardens furnished with striking decoration and economic plants representative of their vegeta- tion and their agri-horticultural industries. These gardens will occupy areas adjoining the exhibition halls of the respective Dominions, etc., and should be of considerable attraction and interest. The plants for this are being specially prepared in their overseas homes, and they will be supplemented with others obtained from nurserymen in this country. The circular letter sent out to exhibitors gives full particulars as to the lay-out of the Horti- cultural Section at Wembley, which will occupy about 10 acres in a favourable position with respect to accessibility and the grounds generally. Con- sidering the period of the Exhibition, from April to October, the charges for space are not excessive. Special shows would be held in large marquees erected on a site adjoining the Horticultural Section. The profits made by societies when their shows were held elsewhere will be guaranteed by the Exhibition authorities. Some nurserymen have notified their intention to maintain a running display of indoor plants in specially erected green- houses. In conclusion, I feel certain that if British horticulturists make the best of the oppor- tunities which this great Exhibition will provide, horticulture will be the greatest attraction of the many that will be set up at Wembley. ABOUT DAMPING OFF IN the case of young seedlings this is some- times caused by fungus in the soil, especially if leaf-mould which has not been thoroughly exposed to the air is used. When one has the privilege, as I once had, of getting any desirable quantity ready made from hollow places in the woods, where it had been thoroughly aerated by the action of birds, there is not much danger. Naturally - made leaf-mould like this is very valuable ; but that' which is collected and remains undisturbed in a heap till wanted is a very different thing. When there is any suspicion of fungus it is well partly to sterilise it by making it too hot to bear one's hands in. If a small quantity only is wanted, it may be placed in an old saucepan over a fire and kept stirred for a short time till it is equally heated throughout. But even after this precaution there is a liability for seedlings to damp off if the atmospheric conditions are not suitable. Great fluctuations of temperature will cause it. One may have a bright, sunny day which will raise the mercury in the thermometer to a considerable height, and a high temperature means a large amount of moisture suspended in the atmosphere. One closes the house in the afternoon to bottle up the sun-heat, and as the heat declines the surplus moisture is deposited on the coolest surfaces, whether these be stone, metal, soil or the leaves of the plants. Large, vigorous-growing plants may not shew any ill-effects, but supposing the temperature of the house declines 200 or more during the night and the sun comes out brightly in the morning, the dew will have collected on the cold soil just at the base of the little plantlets, and will remain there till the soil becomes warm, which in winter an I i.uK spring may take some hours: During this 'inn I imagine the plants will feel something like I should do with m; feet in cold water and the rest of my body in a summer temperature, lake the stronger plants, 1 might be able to bear the torture for a time, but it would be rather trying for a newly born babe, and there is every reason to believe that plants are more sensitive than animals. Plants also have their language, an inaudible but visible one, and only partly understood by a comparatively few devotees. The old-fashioned language of flowers is pretty, but imaginary ; the language of plants is real, and gives expression to suffering and want as well as to the opposite condition. Would that I understood it sufficiently to prevent all suffering instead of waiting till tin- effects are visible. The leaves would not then need to turn yellow to shew they were starving or wrongly fed. When seedlings are in pots plunged in bottom- heat or placed at a suitable distance from a heated pipe there is not much risk of damping, but if it is otherwise one may succeed in raising some early Lettuces, but Tomatoes or Stocks, if the attendant is caught napping, may give trouble. Readers should understand that it is not always the amount of moisture in the atmosphere which causes damping. It may occur with a minimum amount of humidity, while plants in a sweet, steaming hot-bed are not likely to suffer, but it is the effect of cold water and cold soil at the base of the plant. I have sometimes sprinkled seedlings with almost hot water in sufficient quantity to warm the surface of the soil when the morning has been bright after an unexpected frost. This was done when ventilation was given, and had the effect of relieving the plants considerably. Still, such a plan could not be repeated very often with impunity. Damping off is not confined to seedlings ; cuttings also suffer from it. Chrysanthemum cuttings, if not too soft, will live (though they may droop) and ultimately take root in a cool, draughty passage, but place them in a house or frame where they are liable to great atmospheric fluctuations and they may damp off, especially if the structure is not opened when the sun appears. Chinese Primulas, too, are apt to suffer in. the same way, and so are large double flowers, such as Chrysanthemums. If in any way one can prevent the cold water remaining on them and stagnant air surrounding them, oae will most likely prevent damping. We like to see the dewdrops on the leaves of our flowers and vegetables in the open air on a bright spring morning after a comparatively cool night. These do no harm because the air is not confined and the soil just below the surface is frequently, before sunrise, warmer than the atmos- phere. But when we see or even suspect these dewdrops in houses containing flowers, fruits or tender seedlings, they should generally be taken as a danger signal. Since penning the foregoing notes I have visited Messrs. Blackmore and Langdon's nursery and have seen their hundreds of thousands of Begonia seedlings. These are in 6in. pots and as close together as Mustard and Cress, without a shadow of damping. Mr. Langdon told me that pricking out would be started in a week's time. They are too small to handle, and I was told they would be shifted on a small stick. The pots in which the seed was sown had been placed in a propagating frame inside the house, and the most forward now had the lights removed during the day. Here, then, is the same lesson: Avoid great fluctuations of temperature during the early stages. Wm. Taylor. 128 THE GARDEN. [March io, 1923. OBITUARY THE REV. W. WILKS. IT is with deepest regret that we have to record the sudden death of the Rev. \V. Wilks. Mr. Wilks bee; ■ uddenly faint on Friday morning 2nd inst. and died almost imme- 1 diately. at his home at Shirley. As every gardener knows. Mr. Wilks gave us the famous strain of Shirley Poppies; yet, great is was this triumph, his greatest achievement was, unquestionably, the work he did for the Royal Horticultural Society. He can hardly be said to have laid the foundation-stone of the Society, which had been in existence eighty-two years when he joined it ; yet, without doubt, he did more to put the Society into the proud position it now occupies than anyone else. Writing in The Garden for May 26, 1910, ihis most distinguished gardener and admirable Christian gentleman wrote : " My earliest recollections are connected with horticulture. I remember when I was only four years old my grandfather's devotion to plants, and particularly the pride which he took in the black and white grapes which he grew on a south wall in his garden at Charing, in Kent The Rev. !<>shua Dix, who was afterwards one of the leading spirits of the Royal Horticultural Society, was at that time Curate-in-charge of the Parish of Charing, and all my early remembrances are mixed up with him and Mrs. Dix (as ardent a gardener as her husband), who wire most intimate friends of my family. My lather was also himself a keen gardener, his particular fancy being to try all the new Pears which France was at that time pouring into this country. About 1850, Joshua Dix moved up to London, and became officially connected with the Royal Horticultural Society (his portrait now hangs in the Committee room) ; but his holidays were always spent in the Kent he loved so well ; and to our home garden at Ashford he used to bring, or send down, all the new pi. mis and seeds sent out by the Society. Thus from my earliest years 1 have been immersed in gardens, and in active touch with the inner life of tin- Royal Horticultural Society. " My school life served also to intensify my love of Nature, as I was educated under that great scientist and true Christian gentleman, Professor Charles Pritchard, until I proceeded to Pembroke College, Cambridge, in the year 1861. Having taken my degree in 1864, and after a couple of vears spent amongst the flowers and the open hill country of Somersetshire, I accepted the curacy of Croydon, and was again fortunate in finding in my Vicar. Canon Hodgson, another enthusiastic and practical gardener. " Up to the time of Joshua Dix's death I was by his kindness a frequent attendant at the Royal Horticultural Society's meetings, and in 1867 was elected a Fellow, and from that day to this I have never missed any one "t the meetings, save from illness or absence from home. In 1879, Archbishop Tait moved me from Croydon to Shirley, where 1 at once began to cultivate and improve m\ garden, b \ • >ting myself principally to Roses, Pears, Poppies, Pteonies, Apples, Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, Daffodils, Strawberries. Rho- dodendrons, Flag Irises, Phloxes, Tulips, Hyacinths, Hardy Ferns. Lilies, Snowdrops, and Herbaceous plants in general. About 1880 I became a membei of the Floral Committee ; and was elected to a seat on the Council and appointed Honorary Secre- tary in rSSO. The Society at this time was burdened with debt and consisti d oi only some 1,200 Fellows, many of whom were Life Fellows whose composi- tion money had long before been spent on costly buildings at Ken ington, A resolute effort was tnade by the President and Council to save the In.' and continuity of the Society and i>> bring it I..M I, to a genuinely horticultural policy, with the result that probably never before has the position of the Society been so secure as it is at the present , the number of Fellows having steadily increased up to about 4,500 and its financial balancestanding at more than £8,000." Since 1900 the Society has never looked back, and to-day there are about 18,000 Fellows. The sad tidings of the death ol the Rev. W. Wilks reached us just as we were going press. In our next issue we shall refer at greater length to the life work of this devoted gardener. EDITOR'S TABLE The earliest outdoor Narcissi we received this year came to hand in the third week of February from Mr. W. A. Watts .if the Welsh Bulb Fields, St. Asaph. These were of two varieties. Sunrise and Breila. The former is a splendid Barrii variety for the garden or for cut flower. The perianth is white, with a primrose bar to each segment, and the fluted crown has a fiery scarlet margin. Breila is a useful Incomparabilis with widely expanded cup suffused and edged with orange-red. The flowers did not travel so well as Sunrise, but the perianth appears to be creamy and the flower is rather starry in appearance. Its very informality make* it specially useful for indoor decoration. The Crown Imperial. — It cannot be said that the Crown Imperial is very popular to-day and ,it may be added, that where they are grown, success is not always maintained for long. In many gardens they appear to have been consigned by common consent to the shrubbery border, a position in which, not infrequently, the soil is ninth impoverished by the roots of trees and shrubs. To see them at their best — and the} rank among the quickest growing of spring- flowering plants — Crown Imperials are never better served than when the bulbs are planted in groups of four or five in a strong deep loam. Even in such positions it is an advantage after a few years to remove them to " pastures new," for, being of strong growth, they soon exhaust the soil. Perhaps no bulbous plants which adorn the garden in spring are so likely to be robbed of room as are these, and it is no unusual thing to see them fighting for existence with strong- growing perennials like Starworts or perennial Sun Bowers planted in too close proximity. Plant- ing the bulbs should take place quite early in September, and not, as it sometimes does, in late autumn. This is a point not always appreciated by those growing Crown Imperials for the first time. A Charming Boragewort. — Few will deny to the lovely Mertensia primuloides the highest rank among its kin, and the fact that it is not an easily satisfied plant in many gardens perhaps render- it even inure attractive M. primuloides makes a little tufty mass of rather hairy oval leaves some 3ms. high, above which are unfurled in the characteristic fashion of its race the lovely blossoms. To describe the colour of these is not easy. They open flat with a golden eye set in a strange mixture of the most delicate lilac and sapphire, which gradually passes into a most sumptuous and velvety rich violet. In a deep, free soil which does not suffer from lack of moisture in summer this pretty thing often does well, but it seems generally to succeed best with moraine treatment. Slugs are especially fond of it, bvit in spite of this and its uncertain temper it is an alpine that deserves any amount of patience and 1 ,in'. FORTHCOMING EVENTS. Mai. h 12. — United Benefit Horticultural and Provident Society's Annual Meeting. Bath Gardeners' Society's Meeting. March 13. — Royal Horticultural Society's Fort- nightly Meeting (two days). Jersey Gardeners' Society's Meeting March 14. — East Anglian Horticultural So* Meeting. March 15. — Manchester and North of England Orchid Society's Meeting. Answers to Correspondents FLOWER GARDEN. ROSES AND WATER LILIES (Felsted).— Our eorre- ~I .li nt should plant Rose Hugh Dickson. It is ful], fragrant, free flowering and strung growing. The long -hunts which this variety makes may be pegged down. It is a splendid bedding variety, flowering during a lout: period. The bottom of tin- lily pond may be covered with -nil — good fibrous turves being Buitable — but the plants generally succeed best when planted in basket?, the tatter being placed on a few turves to keep them fixed till the 1001- become established. Many hundreds of Water Lilies are grown in ponds with unrestricted root-run. PLANTS FOR A SHADY BORDER (II C. G., N.13).— The following kinds ot plants are suitable tor the purpose : Anemone japonica, A. j. alba, Anthericum, Campanula, Columbine, Delphinium, Doronicum, Dielytra, Galega, Gaultherla, Hellebores, Hemerocallis, Hepatica, many Lilies, Mossy saxifrages, Spirseas, Scillas and Violas. Seeds of Mignonette, Matthiola bicornis, Virginian Stock, Candytuft and Clarkia elegans, all annuals, may be sown in patches near the front of the border to fill up and add Oi Hi. display of blossom. In tin- autumn plant Wall- flowers, double Daisies and Polyanthuses for spring display. FRUIT UNDER GLASS. HOW TO MAKE A NEW VINE BORDER (Hanr-i .— When the ingredients to form the border are collected the border itseif may be made. The whole of the ba£ must in' drained, using broken bricks or similar material tn a depth of 9ins. The bottom should incline a little towards an outlet to i-iisuri- sound drainage. The border -Intnl. I I-' 2ft. 6ins. deep, not more, whole turves, grass siili- downwards, being placed on tin- rubble. Tin- first portion of the border should be made 4ft. wide arni 2ft. added each year till tin- allotted space is filled. Use tlie old lime rubble, but not any shingle nor sea sand. For ' -ix barrowloads'Of the loam add 1 bushel of lime rubble, half a bushel of small bones, half a bushel of wood-ashes and 61b. of bone-meal. The border, if made up bi iii' Hi' summer, would settle down firmly and be in good condition for the planting of the Vines next .No\i join t, tin' Inst time for an amateur to plant them. Cover the border during the winter with clean straw 9ins. thick. MISCELLANEOUS. BASIC SLAG (C. A.). — We have not heard of any ill. tints to chickens 01 animals from basic slag applied to gras-land. Basic slag to be effective this year should have been applied last autumn or early in the winter. It 1- \' iy L'nod 101 fruit trees and Strawberries, and should be applied to the soil about 6ins. below the surface when tin ground is being prepared for the planting of fruit trees, 4oz. per square yard being a suitable quantity i" apply. For the benefit of the Sweet Peas we advise the use of superphosphate of lime, now and when the plant- an growing — 2oz. per square yard now. and 2oz. per yard tun of row later. Tin' basic slae, if in store should be retained quite dry till next autumn. Cataxogttjs Received. Sir. Georgi Elsom, Spalding, Lines.— Flower and Vegetable s. '■'!-. Greenhouse Painting & Glazing "VITROLITE" SUPERIOR TO WHITE LEAD. PRICE 18/6 Per Gall. CANS EXTRA. "PLASTINE" THE IMPERISHABLE PUTTY. PRICE 32/- Per Cwt. KEGS EXTRA. 7 lb. TINS 4/3 EACH. 14 lb. TINS 5/6 EACH. Post Free, (Tins free.) Carriage Extra. WALTER CARSON & SONS, GROVE WORKS, BATTERSEA, S.W.I I TELEPHONE NO.:— BATTERSEA, 1630 (2 lines). -March ro, 1923.] THE GARDEN. J.CHEALsSONS.Ltd The Nurseries, CRAWLEY. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS of Herbaceous Plants. 12, in 12 varieties 25. in 25 SO, in 50 „ 100, in 25 ,, 8,6 & 10,6 .. 17- & 21/- . . 35/- & 45/- 55 -, 65/- & 75 - The higher price includes Choice Delphiniums and Paeonies. COLLECTIONS OF ALPINE PLANTS FOR SPECIAL POSITIONS. Our Selection, 55/-, 65/- & 75/- per ioo, according to varieties included. SPECIAL QUOTATIONS for larger quantities. CATALOGUES ON APPLICATION. bUMM«ftMIIMV*MV«IMM*MimMW«MmMMM»*MMMmi*v«0l*MlM NOW IS THE TIME TO LOOK OVER YOUR ROCK GARDEN And plant the following in any blank spaces : ANEMONE PULSATILLA, the well-known Pasque flower. ANEMONE PULSATILLA ALBA, the white form of above. ANDROSACE WATKINSII, brilliant, rosy pink flowers. CAMPANULA Q. F. WILSON, dark violet. CAMPANULA W. H. PAINE, brilliant blue tloweis, well-defined eye. A.M., E.H.S. DIANTHUS ALPINUS, deep rosy crimson. QEUM MONTANUM, glorious clear yellow flower, very dwarf. -'^ IRIS ARENARIA, only three inches high, soft yellow flowers. PRIMULA VISCOSA, rosy purple, six inches high. SILENE ACAULIS, rose coloured flowers,4very dwarf and free. ^, SOLDANELLA MONTANA, lavender-lilac flowers. VIOLA CLARENCE ELLIOTT, white gracilis. Carriage Paid for 12/6. ORDER NOW FROM— GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST. THE PATTISSON HORSE BOOTS FIG. 1.— For Shed Horse I FIG. 2 (Welted Pattern*. FIG. 2 (No Welt Pattern). | ONCE TRIED, ALWAYS USED. SIMPLEST! STRONGEST! MOST ECONOMICAL 1 Best English Leather or Rubber Soles. Used in tbe Royal and in thousands of the Principal Gardens. Orders for NEW BOOTS OR REPAIRS now despatched by return. Silver Medals: Royal Horticultural Society 1904 and 19M. Royal International Horticultural Exhibition, 1912. HUNDREDS OF TESTIMONIALS. Cver 10,000 Sets used fn the United Kingdom. Illustrated Price Lists from the Makers :— T H. PATTISSON & Co., Sireatham. London. GREAT PRICE REDUCTIONS I IN THE HIGH GRADE I "B.P." GARDEN FRAMES It is now possible to offer B. & P. Garden Frames of Pre-War Standard at greatly reduced prices. These frames are sent from the works ready painted and glazed 2loz. English glass, complete with bolts; they can be put together in a few minutes by any amateur. A Typical Example. No. H.75.- MELON & CUCUMBER FRAME (illustrated). The fronts are 1 I ins. high, backs 22 ins. high. The frame is 1 i ins. thick (instead of 1 in.) and the lights 2 ins. (instead of li ins.). Glazed with 21 oz. English glass and painted two coats. i r ■ l i- f% €^ ^ ^% ^\. 2 Light Frame, 8(t. by 6ft.,, Light Frame, -C < • I K ♦ II £6:7:0 OW«J « 1U|V 3 Light Frame, 12 ft. by 6 ft.. 4 ft. by 6 ft.. £8 : 18 :0 Lights only, 6 ft. by 4 ft., painted two coats and glazed 21 oz. English glass 36/-, or unpainted and unglazed, 13/-. Carriage paid on all orders of 40/- value and upwards to Railway Stations in England and Wales. Write for Folder G151. Enquiries invited for: — Conservatories, Glasshouses, Peach Houses, Vineries, Carnation Houses, and Horticultural Work of every desciiption. Heating Apparatus of all kinds. oulton eraul Vf Telegrams. BOULTON NORWICH NORWICH Tel e p h o n e NORWICH 851 (5lines) I LONDON OFFICE 135-137. QUEEN VICTORIA ST. E.C Telegrams: Boutique.Cent London.Telephone4642 Cent 1 'nST*"5-^ The " PERFECTOR " ARCH forms an ideal setting for the Rose Garden. The man whose pride is in his Garden will appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of this design. The construction is light, yet strong enough for a permanency, being specially designed for the cultivation of climbing Roses, Clematis, etc. It is made entirely of OAK and treated with Solignum, size 7 ft. high above ground level, and 3 ft. 4m. wide inside. Price £1 each. Orders for three or more will be sent Carriage Paid. Cash with order. These can be made wider than 3 ft. 4 m. if required, prices for which will be quoted on application, stating number required. THE " PERFECTOR " PERGOLA. This is constructed with the above Arches spaced any distance up to 6 ft. apart. The longitudinal and secondary cross bars to complete the Pergola are supplied in OAK, treated with Solignum, at 1/6 per foot run of Pergola ; any lengths to suit your require- ments. Thus the price of the Pergola illustrated, 25 ft. long, works out as follows : — 4 Arches at £1 each .. £4 0 0 25 ft. run Top Bar at 16 £1 17 6 w. State nearest Railzvay Station when ordering. CARRIAGE PAID .. £5 17 6 T. REVITT, Railway Works, OLNEY THE GARDEN. [March io, 1923. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL GREENHOUSE NOW and instat a " Horse Shoe " with Pipes. It is the best for heat maintenance after hours of inattention and burns least possible fuel. Gardener; say so, and they ought to know. 38,000 Sold. Used in the R.H S. and Botanic Gardens and in many notable Gardens throughout the Country. Booklet £ and quota- tion post free. Reduced Prices. Ch«PKiiM\elloGLtd Southwark. St. LONDON. S.E.I. Horticulturists' Party to Holland MARCH 29th, 1923. Visiting the Flower-fields, etc. Inclusive charge. No extras. Write to THE SECRETARY, The Travellers' Association of London, Ltd., 55, Russell Square, London, W.C.I. LO A M. Rich, yellow, fibre, fat and marley. No waste. Carriage Paid Quotations. Wm. WOOD & SON, Ltd. TAPLOW, BUCKS. VELVET LAWNS The use of Climax Lawn Sand or "Premier" L Lawn Dressing now will be a revelation to you. Nothing else so reliable- PARTICULARS AND ADVICE FREE. I Garden supplies i™ w&* CRANMER STREET. LIVERPOOL AUCTION SALES BY PROTHEROE & MORRIS Every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY, of ROSES, AZALEAS & RHODODENDRONS, Herbaceous and Rock Plants, FRUIT TREE8, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, BULB8, etc., At 67 & 68, Gheapside, London,E.C2 Write for Catalogues. 'Phone : Bank 857. PERPETUAL CARNATIONS ILLUSTRATED — A thoroughly practical and well illustrated book on these beautiful and popular flowers, written by Laurence J. Cook, is now ready. Price 2/6 net, postage 4d. extra. It is published at the Offices of " Country Life," Limited, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMICALLY PREPARED. 1 1 the form of a leaf -mould, ready for use at any time, in the omeway, and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes f JitberU bushels equal >in£ lacwis.i, gives better result, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. A Beautiful Free Booklet giving full Particulars and testimonials sent on receipt of postcard, Vm- BEWARE OF IMITATIONS. GENUINE ONLY IN OUR MARKED BAGS, CONTAINING GUARANTEED ANALYSIS "W Cash Prices, including tags; Snail (about 1 bushel), 3'.: Large (about 4 bushels). 7'-: 6 Large, 33/9; 10 Largp. 65/-; 20 Large, 120'- Carrlage Paid to any station within 25 miles of London, including delivery within free delivery radius of Railway Company. Sd. per bag extra tor every 50 miles or part b-yuml WAKELEY BROS & CO., Ltd., 76a, BANK8IDE, LONDON, S.E.I. ENGLISH NICOTINE. THE WORST of ORCHARD PESTS, Psylla Mali (Apple Sucker), the tiny insect which attacks and destroys opening apple blossom buds, will shortly make its appearance. Nico Soap is the remedy and stocks should be procured at once. There is nothing so good as Campbell's English- made Nicotine Insecticides for destroying all sucking insects. CAMPBELL'S ENGLISH NICOTINE, 95-98 per cent, guaranteed, prices on application. CAMPBELL'S NICO SOAP (Nicotine Soap). The best Potash Soft Soap, plus 7J per cent. Nicotine, unrivalled for syringing or spraying. Prices — Jib., 21- ; lib., 4/- ; iolb., 32/-. CAMPBELL'S NICOTINE VAPORISING COMPOUND. Nicotine content, 50 per cent. Prices— ioz., 1/6; 40Z., 3/9; 8oz., 7/6; £ pint, 9/-; 1 pint, 17/6; J gallon, 61/-. CAMPBELL'S NICOTINE FUMIGATING ROLLS, very simple and effective. Infoursizes, for 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 3,000 cubic feet. Prices — 7d., 10d., 1/6 and 2/- each. CAMPBELL'S PATENT SULPHUR VAPORISER. The best method of exterminating Mildew from plants in greenhouses. In two sizes, for 5,000 and 10,000 cubic feet. Prices — 18/- and 20/- each. CAMPBELL'S LEMON OIL INSECTICIDE, splendid for sponging, dipping, or syringing stove and greenhouse plants. Pints, 2/3 ; quarts, 3 10 ; h gallon, 6/10; gallon, 12- each. CAMPBELL'S WEEDKILLER. One gallon makes 51 gallons for use. Per gallon, 71- ; 2 gallons, 13'-. Obtainable from Seedsmen or, in case of difficulty, direct from the Manufacturer, J. D. CAMPBELL, Nicotine Manufacturer, LUND STREET, CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER. Vesey's Patent Universal Spreader This valuable and much needed Machine is adap able for quickly and easily distributing all dry substance such as Manures, Lawn SanJ. Lime, Common Sand, &c, &c.a on Golf Links, Bowling Greens, Lawns, &c. PRICE ■ £4 17 6 For fall particulars apply to — CORRY & CO., Ltd., Bedford Chambers. Covenl Garden. LONDON, W.C.I Largest Manufacturers of Flower Pots in the World. it M M THE BEST AND CHEAPEST. SPECIAL POTS for Roses, Vines, Clematis, Orchids, and Chrysanthemums. Fancy Fern Pans and Bulb Bowls, from 4d. each. No Waiting ! All Orders executed the same day as received. State quantity of each size required, and have Carriage Paid quotation, or write for Illustrated Price List. RICHARD SANKEY & SON, LTD., Rovui Potteries. BULWELL. NOTTINGHAM. ickerv ^rfDTrrTERTILTsE,Rc Assist Nature by using VICKERS' GARDEN FERTILISER It is used extensively by Gardeners. Horticulturists, and Allotment Holders, and always gives complete satisfaction. CHEAPEST, BEST, AND MOST ECONOMICAL. GUARANTEED ANALYSIS PHOSPHATES NITROGEN POTASH Water Soluble Citric Soluble Insoluble Nitrogen i?~....itn Soluble Equal to Pot3sh Amm n.a (K20) Equal to Sulphate of Potash (K2S04) 18% 4% 3% 4% 4-85% 5% 9-25% A PERFECT PLANT FOOD FOR FRUIT, FLOWER, j AND VEGETABLE GARDENS. Sold by the leading Seedsmen, Chemists, and Ironmongers. i — '" ~ " i ~ •" ; Packed in Sealed Bags, Tib. 2/-, 141b. 3/6, 281b. 6/6, 561b. 12/6, 1121b. 24/6 per Bag. If you have any difficulty In obtaining supplies, write direct to — THOMAS VICKERS & SONS, Ltd. (H Dept.), Phosphate Works, WIDNES, LANCS. Published by 'Cointrv Life,'* Limited, at 20. Tavistock Street, Strand. W.C.2, and=by Gecrge Newnes, Limited, 8-11, Southampton Street, Strand, W.C.2. Printed by The Avenue Press, 55 & 57, Drury Lane, London, W.C.2. THE GARDEN ORCHARD GARDEN WOODLAND »1. LXXXVII.— No. 2678. tar^d as Second-class Matter at the New York, N.Y., Post Office. Saturday, March 17, 1923 REGISTERED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AS A NEWSPAPER AND FOR CANADIAN MAGAZINE POST. Price THREEPENCE Yearly Subscription: Inland, 17/4 ; Foreign, 17/4 A DAFFODIL DELL. MERRYWEATHER'S ROSES FOR THE GARDEN I FOR EXHIBITION 1 FOR BEDS! FOR EVERYWHERE I Also Fruit Trees, Shrubs, Ornamental Trees. Please state your wants. LILIUM HENRYI, grand autumn-flowering Lily LILIUM HANSONI, the Japanese yellow Martagon Lily crimson-maroon LILIUM SPECIOSUM ALBUM, handsome white flowers H. MERRYWEATHER & SONS, LTD. Garden Specialists, SOUTHWELL, NOTTS. Barr's Lilies and Gladioli FOR MARCH PLANTING. LILIUM AURATUM, the white golden-rayed spotted Lily of Japan, bearing large sweetly scented flowers strong biUbs, per dozen, 18/6 ; each 1,9 per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- bright golden yellow spotted per dozen, 21 /- ; each 2/- per dozen, 18/6 ; each 1/9 LILIUM SPECIOSUM MELPOMENE, fine handsome flowers, rich crimson, spotted purple-crimson and margined white per dozen, 25/- : each 2/3 LILIUM UMBELLATUM, large orange-scarlet flowers, monster bulbs per dozen, 21/- ; each 2/- OLADIOLUS Large-flowered Hybrids in Choice Mixture of many beautiful colours per 100, 32/6 ; per dozen, 4/6 GLADIOLUS Hybrid Butterfly Splendid Mixture, all very beautiful per 100, 25/- ; per dozen 3/6 GLADIOLUS PRIMULINUS, New Hybrids, Mixed, beautiful form and delicate colours per 100, 21/- ; per dozen, 3/- Descriptivr Catalogue of Lilies, Gladioli, Tigridias, etc., free on application. BARR A SONS 11> 12 * 13> KINQ street, l-**nr*r* ** JWITUy COVENT PARPEN, LONDON, W.O.S. " I R FRI IITIPTR " THE WORLD's BEST MANURE. LuLLi l FVLJ I 1 1 JUiIA fiVst at Shrewsbury this year. Prices:— 1 cwt., 30/-; J-cwt., 16/6 ; 281bs., 9/-; 141bs., 5/-. TAPLOW GARDEN MATS. No Archangels this season ! Taplows are equal in weight, superior in frost resistance, wear longer, and are nearly as cheap as Archangels. Made in four sizes, 6x4, 35/- per dozen, Carriage Paid. CA USTIC ALKALI, The Original Winter Wash Tested and accepted by the World's Fruit Growing Centres as the best. 40 tins, 47/6 ; 20 tins, 24/- ; 10 tins, 12/6 ; 5 tins, 6/6. New 1923 Catalogue Gratis. Win. WOOD & SON, Ltd., Taplow, Bucks. YORK STONE CRAZY PAVING 50/- per ton, 100 ft. lots or more. GREY LIMESTONE AND RED SANDSTONE ROCKERY, 50/- per ton. Waterworn and Weathered WESTMORELAND LIMESTONE, also WALLING STONE, at 57/6 per ton. Delivered Free in London within reasonable distance. Special Prices for Truckloads. ROCKERIES FORMED AND PLANTED Wm. BIGNELL & SON, NORTH ROAD, HIGHGATE, N.6. VPhone Hornsey'2868. THE GARDEN. \I.\KCII 17, I923. it THE GARDEN" CATALOGUE GUIDE Fruit Trees and Plants PERRY'S Hardy Plant} Farms ENFIELD, MIDDX. New Alpines and Perennials Complete Collection KELWAY & SON Retail Plant Department LANGPORT, SOMERSET. Hardy Plants Colour Borders Gladioli HARDY AZALEAS AND FLOWERING SHRUBS R. & G. CUTHBERT SOUTHGATE MIDDLESEX Established * 1 797 For planting and Conservatory decoration. Catalogue of our new and beautiful varieties post free LAXTON BROS. Strawberries Nurseries and BEDFORD Fruit Trees W. WELLS, Junr. Hardy Plant Nursery MERSTHAM, SURREY Specialist in Hardy Plants and Alpines Catalogue free Seeds and Bulbs BLACKMORE & LANGDON Twerton Hill Nursery BATH Begonias Delphiniums Gloxinias Cyclamen, etc. DAWKINS Book of 408, Kino's Road Seeds CHELSEA, S.W. now ready JOHN JEFFERIES & SON, LTD. The Royal Nurseries CIRENCESTER Gladiolus Specialists and Growers of Choice Strains of Vegetable and Flower Seeds R. H. BATH Ltd. The Floral Farms WISBECH Home Grown Bulbs and Seeds SPENCE'S Potato Growing GUIDE [AND CATALOGUE free if you mention this paper. —CHARLES T. SPENCE, Seed Potato Specialist, DUNBAR, SCOTLAND. SPECIAL OFFER Choice Plants for present planting .- 12 Aubrietias in 12 varieties - - - 9 - 12 Dianthus in 12 varieties - - 9/. 12 Saxifrages in 12 varieties - - - 9/. 12 Alpines for dry walls in 12 vars. - 9/, to 15/- 1 2 Plants for paved walks in 1 2 vars. 7/6 to 10/6 12 Michaelmas Daisies in 12 new vars. - 18 - 12 Veronicas, shrubby, in 12 varieties - 1 2/- AJJ the above collections sent per return carriage paid. PULHAM & SON, A/pine Nurseries. BISHOPS STORTFORD. Winners of the Graphic Cup for best Bock Garden Chelsea Show, 1922. Tubs for shrubs. WIRE BOUND PATENT, over 100 prises. R.H.S. Medal, 1910. No warping or shrinking. In Oak. Beech, Teak, etc. Highly decorative.— Price List from Pradal & Co.. 26. Goodge Street. London. W.l. CAMPING.— All Campers and lovers of out- doorlife should read "Camping," by J. Soon Moore, published at the Offices of Country Life," Limited. 20 Tavistock Street, W.C.2 ; price 9d. net by post, lid. la™«°<* Garden Sundries J. BENTLEY, Ltd. Barrow-on-Humber HULL. HY. RICHARDSON & CO. Skeldergate Bridge Works YORK Weed Destroyers Fertilizers Insecticides Nets and Sundries Lawn, Garden, Fruit Trees, and Horticultural Fertilisers Landscape Gardening W.H. GAZE & SONS, Ltd. Garden Architects and Craftsmen, KINGSTON - ON -THAMES and at 10, Conduit Street, W.i. Model Gardens and Nurseries "THE OAZEWAY," Surbiton, S.W. Sole Makers of the ' All Weather " Hard Tennis Court. Crazy and rectangular Paving Stone loaded on rail ; Sundials, Garden Figures, etc., in lead and stone. Write to W. Gaze, 19-23. High St„ Kingston-on-Thames, lor Illustrated Catalogue 4D, or an appoint- ment to inspect the Model Gardens and Garden Furnishings at " The Gazeway." Kingston 3000 (6 lines) Mayfair 3973-4. J. CHEAL & SONS Nurseries CRAWLEY Ltd. Landscape Gardeners. Trees and Shrubs, etc. HODSONS, LIMITED i4,Victoria St., London, s.w. 1 &58, Castlegate, Nottingham Rock, Water or Formal Gardens, Stone Paved Paths. Green & Hard Courts GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries CHISLEHURST, KENT WRITE me Landscape and Garden Archi- tect, specialises in Rock, Water and Formal Gardens, etc. MISS EVELYN FAWSSETT (Specialist in Garden Planning) 83, High Street 'LEWES, SUSSEX New Oardens de- signed. Old Gardens Re-arranged. Plant- ing plans for borders, etc Terms on appli- cation. WM. BIGNELL & SON North Road Nurseries HIGHGATE, N.6 PULHAM © SON BV APPOINTMENT TO nl5 MAJESTY 71 NEWMAN ST- OXFORD ST LONDON -V NURSERIE5 • ELSENTIAM Experts in Garden Formation and Reconstruction. Advice & Estimates Free. 'GBAPniC'CUP for besl RockGardcn CHELSEA- 1922 Plar\s Si .Surucys- \ases ■ rouMairvs ■ SEEDS. FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEED CATALOGUE, giving full cultural directions at competitive prices, Post Free, if this paper is mentioned. D. T.BROWN & Co., Seedsmen, Poulton le Fylde, Lanes. H. J. JONES' aaSZ£zr° contains select list of all the new and best up-to-date varieties in all sections, also list of gold medal Phlox, new Michaelmas Daisies, choice Delphiniums, new Hydrangeas, giant Mont- bretias, Giant Cannas, choice Gladioli, etc., sent post free for 2d. stamp. List of CHRYSANTHEMUM NOVELTIES post free. H. J. JONES' Chrysanthemum Guide. Best work on Culture. New Edition in preparation (135th thousand), ready shortly. Paper covers, post free 1'3, Cloth covers 2,-6. H.JJ.'b GOLD MEDAL DAHLIAS. Pot roots flower much earlier and more freely than young plants. " H.J.J, can supply at once good pot roots, best named varieties, 12 for 7/6 • 25 for 14/- ; 50 for 25/- ; from the following sections i» Cactus, Show, Modern Decorative, ;Pompon, Paonv,; Collarette and Single. All box. packing and carriage free for cash with order. RYECR0FT NURSERIES, Lewisharo, S E.13. CHOICE NOVELTIES IN Large-Flowering Gladioli Top Size Roots Only. Post Free. As supplied to the Royal Gardens, Kew ; Bir- mingham, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, and other Public Parks and many of the leading gardens in the country. Per doz. Per 100 America, pale lilac rose .. .. 2/3 16/- Baron J. Hulot, distinct violet blue 2/6 17 6 Halley, beautiful salmon pink rVIarechal Foch, rosy pink, immense Panama, extra fine pink Pink Perfection, lovely soft pink.. Prince of Wales, beautiful salmon.. Schwaben, orange yellow, dark blotch War, beautiful scarlet White Giant, the largest pure white INTERNATIONAL MIXTURE, SPLENDID HYBRID SEEDLINGS. Containing every shade of colour .. 2/— 12/6 PRIMULINUS HYBRID GLADIOLI. Per doz. Per 100 Atalanta, salmon, shaded orange .. 3/- 21/- Hermione, orange, shaded salmon.. Maiden's Blush, delicate pink Orange Brilliant, most attractive.. Vanessa, fine sulphury yellow Yellow Queen, extra dark yellow .. Best Mixed Full Descriptive List on application. XD. Seed and Bulb Merchants, 11, Basnett St., LIVERPOOL. 16 10 6 3/- 21 - 2 9 20/- 3/- 21/- 2/3 15/- 2/3 15/- 3/- 20- 3/- 21/- 3/- 21- 3/6 25/- 3/6 25 - 3/- 21 /- 3/- 21 - 2/- 12 6 KER'S L (Continued from opposite page.) JAPANESE BOWL GARDENS.— Miniature Figures, Pagodas, Huts and Bridges, complete sample set, 7/6. New list post free— Ferrest & Ward, 9-10, St. Mary-at-Hill, E.C.3. Trade supplied. RARE ALPINES.— Oxalis adenophylla, Iris histrioides major, Parochetus, Pelargonium endlieherianum, Primula helodoxa, Sisyrinchium grandiflorum, Soldanellas and rare Saxifrages are all included in our Alpine Catalogue, post free. Herbaceous Catalogue and List of Hardy Orchids also free. — Bowell & Skarratt, Nurseries, Cheltenham. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— Our Forfarshire Grown Seed is unsurpassed for cropping and Exhibition purposes. Thirty of the best and newest varieties are described in our Spring List of RELIABLE VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS for 1923. Post Free Copy on application. If interested, also ask for our Nursery List of Hardy Scotch Plants, Roses. Fruit Trees, etc. — Thyne & SON, Dept. G, Dundee. WIRE BARGAIN ! New Government Surplus ! Ideal for training peas, beans, hops, tomatoes, small tree?, wiring greenhouses, tying, fencing, etc. Waterproof, flexible, steel stranded and long lasting. Cash price, 19/6 per mile (full 1,760 yards). Send for trial lot or samples to-day. — Green's Surplus Stores, 205, Seymour Road, Lytham. LISSADELL NEW ALPINE & HERBACEOUS SUPPLEMENT is now with the printers, and will be posted to all customers shortly. Copies will be sent to others interested on receipt of a post card. — Manager, Lissadell, Sligo. ALPINES.— Rare Species and Garden Hybrids. List. — Miss Taylor, Quarry Orchard, Reigate. EGGS FOR HATCHING. — Utility, 7/6 ; better, 15/-; special, 20/- sitting. Day old Chicks, 30/- and 40/- doz. Wyandottes, Leghorns, Barnevelders, R.I. Reds, Black Wyandotte Bantams, White Runners, Magpie Ducks, Buff Orpington Ducks. List free. — Sydney Hiiier, Cleveland Poultry Farm, Standon, Herts. JERSEY GRAVEL.— The ideal gravel for paths and walks. Pleasing appearance. Binds well, remaining firm in both dry and wet weather. Wears well. — Summerfield A Lang, Ltd., Berey's Buildings, George Street, Liverpool. RELIABLE SCOTCH SEED POTATOES.— List of varieties with prices on application. — Alexander Grahau, Seed Potato Grower, 3, Canning Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow. Mention this paper. BEAUTIFUL ANEMONES.— Robinsoni, 12, 2 4 ; Nemorosa, Blue Bonnet, 6d. ; Apennina, 12, 1/9; Ap. plena 6d. ; Alba plena. 12, 1/6; Kanunculoides, yellow, 12, 1,- i Hardy Cyclamen, lovely shades of pink and rose and purest white, handsome marbled foliage, 12, 3/6. — J. Cornhill, By Meet , Wey bridge. MORRIS'S LIVE SEEDS (29th Season).— Reliable qualttv, reasonable prices. Full list of the worth while varieties free. ShaIlot8, 101b., 6/3 ; Onion Sets, 41b., 6/- Carr. paid. Scotch Seed Potatoes, finest grading, Inspected stocks from 10,'- cwt. — Morris's. Seedhouse. 225. Bristol Street Birmingham. March 17, 1923.] ..«_« 4£fc> mr^-- E GARDEN. 1 ^^^•Ste^ **?= 3^^® -7*5"—^ WEBBS' LOVELY ANTIRRHINUMS. CHOICE STRAINS OF THESE POPULAR BEDDINli PLANTS. WHITE HEATHER. Pure white. ROSE QUEEN. Rose pink. golden orange Mr. . SCEPTRE. Deep crimson shade, nearly black. GUINEA GOLD. Bright yellow flowers. SUPREME. Nearly every shade, mixed. SCARLET QUEEN. Bright cinnabar red. Each 6d. and 1/- per packet. See Webbs' Harden Catalogue — Free. WEBB * SONS, LTD.. The King's Seedsmen, STOURBRIDGE. WATERER'S GOLD MEDAL RHODODEN- DRONS and Azaleas, Rare Hardy Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees, Alpines and Perennials. Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Scotch Grown Seed Potatoes, Spring Planting Bulbs.— John Waterer Sons and Crisp, Limited, Bagshot, Surrey ; Twyford, Berks ; and London. __ WAKELEY'S PATENTED HOP MANURE. —The original and only substitute for Stable manure. See advert, on p. iy. __^ WM. DUNCAN TUCKER & SONS, LTD., Lawrence Road, South Tottenham, N.15.— Conservatories, Winter Gardens, Vineries, Peach Houses, Portable Buildings, etc. BARNARDS, LTD., NORWICH, for Garden Req uisites of all kinds. SAVE THE RAIN WATER '.—Strong, round, chestnut wood Wine Casks, about 120gals. capacity ; make splendid water butts or, cut in half, fine plant tubs. Price 20/- each, net cash, f.o.r. London. — Fletcher, Fletcher & Co., Limited, Vibrona Laboratories, Holloway, London, N.7. LOWE & GIBSON, Crawley Down, Sussex. — Winners of the Foremarke Silver Challenge Cup for Gladioli. THE MODERN GLADIOLUS. Our unique list of wonderful Gladioli is now ready. Send for particulars of highest class seed of Gladiolus, Border Carnation and Delphinium. FIDLER'S NEW ILLUSTRATED GARDEN SEED GUIDE AND CATALOGUE FOR 1923 IS NOW READY, and a copy will be sent post free to any address on receipt of postcard. — Write at once to Fidler & Sons, Royal Berkshire Seed Stores, Reading. DEVOLNITE KILLS Wireworms, Grubs, etc., and all insects in the soil (guaranteed). — Write, Wakefield Manure and Fertilising Co., Wakefield. STONE PAVING. — Crazy and Rectangular York Garden Pavings, Copings, Steps, etc.. Grit and other Rocks for Rock Gardens, Flat Stone Rubble for " dry " walls, Notting- ham Marl. Large or small quantities carriage paid to any railway station in England. — HODSON and Son, Ltd., 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. WELLS' CATALOGUE OF CHRYSANTHE- MUMS now ready, post free on application. — W. WELLS & Co. Merstham. Surrey. RIVERS' FRUIT TREES, ROSES, VINES, Figs, Oranges and Orchard House trees are of first-class quality, and a large and select stock is always on view. Inspection Invited. Price list post free on application. — THOS. RrvERS & Sons, Limited, The Nurseries, Sawbridgeworth, Herts. GREENHOUSES and Heating Apparatus. Parsons, Horticultural Builder, Oxford Road, Reading. GARDEN NETS.— Tanned, small mesh, for Pea.s Seeds and Fruit Protection from frost and birds : 30vds. long, 1yd. wide, 3/-; 30yds. by 2yd=.. 6. ; 30yds. by 3yds., 9/-; 30vds. by 4yds., 12/-. Carriage paid. — A. SIMMS, Garden Net Works. Rye. SCOTCH SEED POTATOES, direct from Scotland, hand-picked, per stone : Duke of York, 2/9 ; Express, 2/8 ; Epicure, 21- : Ashleaf, 2/9 ; Great Scot, 1/10 ; Arran Comrade, 1/9 ; Kerr's Pink, 1/8 ; Majestic, 2/- ; Rhoderick Dhu, 2/8 ; Bishop, 2/- ; White Rose Early, 2/- : Dean, 2/- ; Crusader, 2/- ; K. of K., 2/- ; Katie Glover, 8/- ; King Edward, 1/10: Arran Chief, 1/9; T. W. & Co.. Plotholder, 2/9 ; Field Marshal, 2/6 ; Golden Wonder, 2/- ; Tinwald Perfection, 1/9 ; Ally, 2/- ; Witchhill, 2/9 ; Bloomfleld, 2/-, etc. Carriage Forward, Goods Train. If passenger train, add 1/4 extra for all parts. Vegetable Seeds : Peas, 1/- lb. ; Beans, 8d. lb. ; Leeks, Onionfl, Carrots, Parsley, Lettuce, Radish, Celery, Parsnip, Tomato, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Asters, Lobelia, etc., per pkt., 2d., 3d. and 6d. Special terms to Allotment Secretaries for Seed Potatoes and Seeds. Amateur's Guide and Price List free. — Tillie, Whyte and Co., 12, Melbourne Place, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Established 1837. BARR'S FLOWER & VEGETABLE SEEDS, of finest selected strains and tested growth, also the best Scotch and Irish grown Seed Potatoes. Descriptive Catalogue free. BARR'S HARDY PERENNIALS, ALPINES, ROCK PLANTS, AQUATICS, CLIMBERS, etc., for Spring planting. Catalogue free. __^ BARR'S LILIES, GLADIOLI, DAHLIAS, CANNAS, MONTBRETIAS, ANEMONES, BEGONIAS, TUBEROSES, Ac, for Spring planting. Catalogue free — Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, London. THE DOUGLAS CLOVES.— Our wonderful new strain of Hardy Border Clove Carnations can now bo planted in any part of Great Britain. Rigid stems, perfect calvx, glorious scent. We have won more carnation awards of R.H.S. than any two Arms together. Sow seed now, 2/6 and 5/- Plant list free. — J. Douglas, Edenside, Great Bookham. CONTENTS pace The Use of the Daffodil 129 Ornamental Flowering Willows .. .. 131 Rock Garden Construction. — III.. .. 131 Some Marsh-loving Primulas. — // : The Candelabra Section . . . . . . 133 Gardening at Olympia . . . . . . 134 The Woodland Garden in Spring . . 135 Notes from the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . 136 Lenten Roses . . . . . . 136 Correspondence . . . . . . ■ ■ 137 Wisley Gardens ; Prinndinus Hybrid Gladioli ; Rose Marechal Niel ; The Pheasant's Eye Narcissus ; About Freesias ; Single Roses ; The Show Pelargonium. The Late Rev. W. Wilks, M.A 138 Water and Bog Gardening. — IV . . . ■ 139 The Newer Varieties of Alhvoodii . . 140 Lime and its Uses . . . . . . . . 140 Gardening of the Week . . . . . . 141 Answers to Correspondents . . . . 142 ILLUSTRATIONS Acorus Calamus variegatus . . . . 139 Erythronium revolution . . . . ■ ■ 135 Helleborus orientalis . . ■ ■ . . 136 Narcissi Naturalised in Turf . . . . 130 Narcissus Poeticus .. .. .. ■■ 137 N. trimon . . . . . . ■ ■ ■ ■ 129 Olympia, Gardens at . . . . . . 134 Peltandra virginica.. .. .. .. 139 Primula Unique . . . . . . 133 Rock Garden Construction Diagrams .. 132 Salix Medemii . . ■ ■ ■ ■ ..131 Wilks, the late Rev. W., M.A 138 JAMES GRAY, LTD., Builders of Conser- vatories, Greenhouses, etc., and Heating Engineers, Danvcrs Street, Chelsea, London, S.W.3. Wire : Gray, Kensington 90. Telephone : Kensington 90 & 91. ROCKERY PLANTS SPECIALITY.— List free. Terry Lee, f.r.h.s., 16, Morden Rd., Stechford, Birmingham. SEWAGE DISPOSAL FOR COUNTRY HOUSES. — No emptying of cesspools ; a perfect fertiliser ; no solids ; no open filters ; perfectly automatic ; everything underground. State particulars. — William Beattie, 8, Lower Grosvenor Place, Westminster. NETTING. — Protect your Peas, Seeds and Buds from frost, blight and birds. Waterproof, lin. mesh, 80yds. long, lvd. wide, 5/- ; 80yds. by 2yds., 10/- : 80yds. by 3yds„ 15/-. Carriage paid.— W. ROBINSON & Co., Garden Net Works, Rye. DOWNER'S NEW RED LUPIN, 10/6 each. Apply for List. — Downer (Dept. 2), Drayton Manor Nurseries, Chlehester. SUTTON'S GLADIOLI. FOR SPRING PLANTING. Special Collections : f)0 in 25 choice named varieties, 18/-. 36 in 12 showy varieties (for clumps), fi/0. Finest mixed, all colours, 21/- per 10(1, :',,- per An-/.. ImiII particulars and Complete List, on application TUBEROSE The Pearl. 4/6 per do/.. 30/- per 100 SUTTON & SONS, THE KING'S SEEDSMEN, KEAlil.NG N0W~ IS THE TIME TO TlANT A KELWAY COLOUR BORDER and you will be able to enjoy its exquisite beauty for many years without any additional expense or labour'. Kelway's (■ "is Peonies, Delphiniums. Phloxes, Pyrethrums and other choice Hardy Perennials are included in their colour schemes, which provide blooms from early spring to late autumn. Semi the measurements of your border to Kflway & Sox. The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. NOW IS THE TIME TO PLANT KELWAY'S GLORIOUS GLADIOLI to produce grand spikes of gorgeous flowers from August until late autumn. Send at once for special price list of named sorts to KELWAY * Sun. The Royal Horticulturists, Langport, Somerset. BOBBIE & CO., LTD., Royal Seedsmen, EDINBURGH. 1923 Catalogue and Guide to Gardening, free, if this paper is mentioned. BATH'S SELECT SEEDS AND PLANTS.— New Hlustrated Catalogue of Choice Vegetable and Flower Seeds and Plant9 is now ready, and will be sent post free on application. Special terms to Allotment Societies.— (Dept. B), R. H. BATH, LTD., The Floral Farms, Wisbech. BIRDS' BATHS, GARDEN VASES, SUN- DIALS, NESTING BOXES. Catalogue (No. 4) tree.— Miiorton, 65, Pearl Road, Walthamstow. PERRY'S NEW CATALOGUE OF ALPINES, PERENNIALS AND WATER LILIES now ready, free on application.— HARDY PLANT Farm. Enfield, Middlesex. RARE PRIMULA AND ALPINE SEEDS from one of the largest and choicest collections. Sold cheap. Lists free. — Rev. J. F. ANDERSON, Glenn Hall, Leicester. PRIOR'S COLCHESTER ROSES, Fruit Trees. Shrubs, Gladioli, Dahlias, Alpines, Carnations, Herbaceous. Catalogue containing cheap collections free. — D. Prior & Son, Ltd., Colchester. LAXTON'S SEEDS AND FRUIT TREES.— Catalogues (mention which required), containing novelties and all the old favourites, can be had on application. — Laxton Brothers, Seed Merchants, Bedford. PRIVET & THORN.— Also Rhododendrons, Heathers and Alpines. Send for List. — Hodsons Limitbd, 58, Castlegate, Nottingham. ECONOMY IN THE GARDEN.— Our illus- trated List, containing a Selection of the best Vegetable and choicest strains of Flower Seeds at strictly moderate prices,. is now ready and will be sent free on application. — J. R. Pbarfon & Sons, Ltd., Lowdham, Notts. SHOW AND REGAL PELARGONIUMS.— Strong, clean, healthy plants from 3in. pots. 12 fine named varieties, 7/6. Newer ones, 10/- and 12/- per dozen. Novelties of 1920, 15/- per dozen. All free by parcel pOBt for cash with order, or carriage paid per passenger train in Leatherboard pota, 2/6 per dozen extra. Catalogues extra. — J. W. Cole A SOW, Midland Road Nursery, Peterborough. ROCK PLANTS, best varieties, inexpensive. List free.— Marion Gledstanes, Fardross, Clogher, Ireland. IRON AND WIRE FENCING for Gardens, Tree Guards, Gates, Arches, Espaliers, Rose Stakes and Orna- mental Garden Iron and Wirework of every description. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. Also Kennel Railing and Poultry Fencing. Ask for separate lists. — Bouiton and Paul, Limited, Norwich. 21^PLY TENNIS BOUNDARY NETTING, Waterproof, tanned, lin. mesh, 30yds. long, 2yds. wide, 20/- ; 30yds. long, 3yds. wide, 30/-. Standards for fixing same. 10ft. high, 3/6 each. Carriage paid. — W. Robinson & Co., Tennis Net Works, Rye. GREENHOUSE PAINTING AND GLAZING. — " Vitrolite," superior to White Lead Paint, 18/6 per gallon; cans extra. " Plastine," the Imperishable Putty, 32/- per cwt. ; kegs extra ; 71b. tins, 4/3, post free. 141b. tins, 6/6 each, carriage extra, tins free. — Full particulars from W. Carson and Sons, Grove Works, Battersea. THE GARDEN. [March 17, 1923. A PRODUCTIVE GARDEN ASSURED By using Wakeley's Patented Hop Manure. Read Awarded DIPLOMA AMEDALat the ROYAL INTER- NATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION, 1912. Beware of imitations. Genuine Only in Our Marked Bags, Containing Guaranteed Analysis. Free Booklet. ypff>m - ONLY ^ & RELIABLE % SUBSTITUTE . celebrated' Vj HOP MANURE ( PATENTED.) "(P The Most Perfect $M Fertilizer ^ SCIENTIFICALLY AND CHEMI- CALLY PREPARED in the form of a leaf- mould, read> for use at any time, in the same way, and for all purposes that stable manure is put. Goes further (4 bushels equalizing 15 cwts.), gives better results, is clean to handle, sweet smelling, and free from weeds, worms, etc. Cash PriCCS (including bags) : Small (about 1 bushel), 3/- ; Large (about 4 bushels), 7/- ; 5 Large, 33/9 ; 10 Large, 65/- ; 20 Large, 1 20/ Carriage paid to any station within 25 miles of London, including delivery within free 6d. per bag extra for every 50 miles or part beyond. A beautiful Free Booklet giving full particulars and testimonials sent on WAKELEY BROS. & CO., Ltd., 75a, Bankside, London, S.E.1 EVERY DRESSING OF WAKELEY S HOP MANURE enriches the soil with the Humus it contains, doing lasting good, quite unlike the ordinary chemical manures, which act only as stimulants, and which, by constant use, impoverish it. delivery radius of Railway Company. receipt of postcard. —% w+0*m**im00*m0'*+**'*m**m**'*m0'*m**'it*f*m0mm0* J.CHEALs SONS, Ltd. The Nurseries, CRAWLEY. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS of Herbaceous Plants. 12, in 12 varieties .. 86 & 106 25, in 25 „ -. 17 & 21 - 50, in 50 „ .. .. 35/- & 45- 100, in 25 „ . . 55 - , 65/- & 75 - The higher price includes Choice Delphiniums and Pa;onies. COLLECTIONS OF ALPINE PLANTS FOR ■. SPECIAL POSITIONS. Our Selection, 55 -, 65 - & 75/- per 100, according to varieties included. SPECIAL: QUOTATIONS for larger quantities. CATALOGUES OX APPLICATION. MMAWMumMMMMMMM ronrr-.ia.-trvu^i-a^*—* . LETHORION Improved Nicotine Cone FUMIGATOR (Introduced 18851 Certain destruction to all pests in glass houses. Only a match reqaired for starting it ! N'o. 1, for 1.000 cubic feet ... lOd. „ 2. ., 1.500 1/3 ,. 3, .. 2,500 1/9 Sold 6v all Seedsmen TFNAX The Perfection Grafting & Budding Wax ' CHI**.^ The All-British Make. Highly recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society. i-lb.. 9d.; i-lb., 1/6; lib.. 3J-; and in bulk. CORRY & CO., Ltd., Shad Thames. LONDON, S.E.1 Registered Trade Mark fc'Jits. NOW IS THE TIME TO LOOK OVER YOUR ROCK GARDEN And plant the following in any blank spaces : ANEMONE PULSATILLA, the well-known Pasque flower. ANEMONE PULSATILLA ALBA, the white form of above. ANDROSACE WATKINSII, brilliant, rosy pink flowers. CAMPANULA G. F. WILSON, dark violet. CAMPANULA W. H. PAINE, brilliant blue flowers, well-defined eye. A.M., E.H.S. DIANTHUS ALPINUS, deep rosy crimson. QEUM MONTANUM, glorious clear yellow flower, very dwarf. IRIS ARENARIA, only three inches high, soft yellow flowers. PRIMULA VISCOSA, rosy purple, six inches high. SILENE ACAULIS, rose coloured flowers, very dwarf and free. SOLDANELLA MONTANA, lavender-lilac flowers. VIOLA CLARENCE ELLIOTT, white, gracilis. Carriage Paid for 12/6 ORDER NOW FROM— GEORGE G. WHITELEGG, The Nurseries, CHISLEHURST. URGENTLY WANTED. — " The Garden," L906 '.'. 1914-21, runs. i>;irt-. cheap.— Ellis, Stourvale Vilki oi odd vols. Wye, Kent. Clean, complete. ASPARAGUS PLANTS. PLANT NOW Giant Purple Argenteuil, and Colossal. Strong transplanted, 3 year old crowns, 16 - 100 ,, 2 ,, „ 12- 100 Packing free. S. BIDE & SONS, Ltd., Nurserymen, Farnham, Surrey. HOW TO PRUNE ROSES & FRUIT TREES. A most helpful booklet bv Owes Thomas, v.m.h. Sent post free on receipt of lid. " Couxtrt Life " Offices, 20, Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, W.C.2. & Son's BULBS Herbaceous Plants AND RO S ES For Spring, 1923. All of the Finest Quality. The Catalogue of above will be sent, post free, on application to their Offices at Overveen, Haarlem, HOLLAND. March 17, 1923.] THE GARDEN. V. Choice Chrysanthemums Our Novelty List for 1923 is now ready, also General Catalogue con- taining the very best varieties in each section, and selected Per- petual Flowering Carnations. Write to-day. Sent free from KEITH, LUXFORD & CO., Sheering Nurseries, HARLOW, ESSEX, and at SAWBB IDQEWORTH , HERTS. SPECIAL OFFER. 4/- 1/3 SWEET PEAS. Coll. 1 — 15 Best Exhibition vars., 12 seeds each Coll. 2 — 6 Choice „ „ 12 seeds each GLADIOLI. Coll. 1 — 5 each 5 magnificent varieties . . 4/6 „ 2 — 5 „ 5 choice varieties . . . . 4/3 „ 3 — 5 „ 5 gorgeous varieties . . . . 4/- ,, 6 — 5 „ 20 splendid named vars. . . 12/6 TOMATO. (Elsom's Fillbasket) pckts 1/- & 2'6 PEAS. Elsom's Sphinx, the wonder Pea, height 2ft., enormons cropper, delicious flavour, early. 2/3 pint, post free. SEND FOR NEW LIST POST FREE. GEORGE ELSOM (Dept. "F") Seed & Bulb Grower, SPALDING ><*• HERBERT'S NEW PINKS Have received Eight Awards of Merit and Qold Medals. I was also personally congratulated by Their Majesties the King and Queen at the K.H.S. Show, Chelsea. / rice List free on application. 12 CARNATIONS, Qold Medal Strain for 6/6 C. H. HERBERT, Nurseryman, ACOCK'S GREEN, BIRMINGHAM. SEED POTATOES Scotch and Yorkshire Grown. ALL THE LEADING VARIETIES. No Better Stocks Obtainable. Send for Illustrated Catalogue. ISAAC POAD & SONS, Ltd., Seed Potato Merchants, YORK. Perpetual Flowering CARNATIONS FOR THE GREENHOUSE AND THE GARDEN. Catalogue Free on application. C. ENGELMANN, Carnation Grower, SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX. GLADIOLUS grown on the COTSWOLDS. The king of Autumn flowers, in recent years improved out of all knowledge both in size of spike and individual flowers. We grow and catalogue only the very pick of the varieties in cultivation, varieties that range in colour from deepest purple, brilliant scarlet and crimson, delicate pinks, apricot, lemon, orange, blue, lavender to paler tints of flesh and blush and pure white. No garden can afford to be without a selection of these magnificent flowers in August and September, bulbs o£ which should be ordered now direct from JOHN JEFFERIES & SON, Ltd., THE ROYAL NURSERIES, CIRENCESTER. 35th SEASON. MRS. PYM'S FAMOUS PLANTS Orders 3/- and over Post Free or Carriage Paid, Passenger Train. 4d. extra for orders under 3/-. The following prices are all per dozen (half or quarter dozen same rate). CASH WITH ORDER. Plant now for good show of bloom this year, and improve every year. Strong, hardy perennial, transplanted plants. Achillea ptarmica, double white, 3/-. Aconitum, large Monarda (Bergamot), Cambridge Scarlet, 6/-. Onopordon, tall blue, 8/-. Agrostemma Flos-jovis, crimson, 3/-. Alyssum, handsome Thistle, 6,'-. Pansies, best large-flowering Bugnote, Gold Dust, 3/-. Alpine Pinks, brilliant colours, 3/-. Alpine Bismarck, Masterpiece, etc., also separate colours for bedding, Pinks, white or bright pink, creeping, 4/-. Anchusa italica, purple, wliite, light and dark blue, Golden Queen, red, tall, deep amethvst blue, 4/6. Anchusa Dropmore, large blue, yellow, 1/6. Pansy, Coquette de Poissey, lovely bedding, 6/-. Anchusa myosotidiflora, masses of deep gentian blue, mauve, 1/10. Pulmonaria (Jerusalem blue Cowslip), very rare, white eye, lovely for rockery, 6/-. Achillea, Perry's Double large two year old roots, 12/-. Papaver Oriental Queen, White, 6/-. Achillea Kelwayl, fine crimson, and Cerise extremely handsome, 6/-. Papaver pilosum, showy orange-red, Queen, 6/-. Alpine Wallflowers, yellow or orange, 1/4 ; 3/-. Pasonies, lovely new Japanese varieties, all colours, 6/ lovely bright new mauve, very effective, 1/9. Alstrcemeria and 9/-. Paeonies, very large, all colours, 12/-. Pent- (Peruvian Lily), orange and flame, 6/-. Alyssum montanum, stemon, lovely large- flowering and scarlet, 6/-. Pentstemon rare Alpine, fragrant, bright yellow, summer flowering. 6/-. gentianoides blue shades, 4/-. Periwinkle, large blue, Antirrhinums, new large-flowering, in all the new art colours, evergreen, 4/-. Pea, Everlasting, white, pink, red, 6/-. Pinks, separate or rnixed, strong bushy, autumn sown and transplanted, coloured, 1/9. Potentilla, double crimson, 4,'-. Primulas, 2/8. Antirrhinums, strong autumn sown, best mixed (not lovely hardy varieties, assorted, for rockeries, bogs, borders, transplanted), 1/6. Anthemis Kelwayi, fine golden yellow, etc., 5/-. Phlox, separate colours, 6/-. Polyanthus, best 4/-. Anthemis styriaca, for rockery, silvery foliage, white large flowering, one year old, 2/6. Pyrethrum, best double flowers, 6/-. white, pink, crimson, large plants, 9/-. Pyrethrum, Kelway's Aubrietla, rich purple, 2/8. Aubrietia, new large-flowering hybrids, 4/-. Primrose, blue, one year old, 6/-. Rockery hybrids, 4/-. Auricula alpinus, lovely varieties, 4/6. Balm, Qems : Primula rosea, bright pink, and Primula denticulata, fragrant. 4/-. Brompton Stocks, one year old plants, large heads, lilac-mauve, strong plants, 6/-. Pinks, Mrs Scarlet Giant and mixed, 3/- ; strong autumn sown (not Sinkins, large fragrant, double white, 6/-. transplanted), 1/6. Campanulas, dwarf rockery, etc., blue Rose Campion, deep crimson, 3/-. Sweet Rocket, 3/-. Rud- or white, 6/-; tall, 4/-. Campanula pyramidalis (Chimney beckia Newmanii superba, 6/-. Rudbeckia Golden Ball, double. Bells), flower blue or white, two year old, 6/-. Canter- 6/-. Salvia Argentea, strikingly beautiful silvery leaves bury Bells, year old, single, white, blue or mixed hybrids, 1/6; in large rosettes, pinkish-white flowers, 4/-. Saponaria double pink, white, blue, and single pink, also cup and saucer, ocymoides, dwarf trailing, 3/-. Saxifrage, mossy, crimson mixed colours, 3/-. Candytuft (perennial), masses of lilac or or pink flowering, 6/-. Saxifraga, white, 4/-. Sweet white, charming for rockery, 6/-. Carnation, good border, Scabious, enormous blooms, dwarf or tall, fragrant, 2/6. 3/-. Carnation Grenadin, grand border variety, profusion of Scabiosa caucasica, large exquisite mauve flowers, large two large brilliant scarlet double flowers, large plants, 3/6. year old plants, 12/-. Shasta Daisy, 3/-. Sedum hybridum Centaurea montana (perennial Cornflower), large fringed blooms, rubrum, 4/-. Silene compacta, pink, 1/4. Solidago Golden blue, white, mauve and new pink, 4/6. Cheiranthus (Siberian Wings. 6/-. Solomon's Seal, 3/-. Stachys (Lamb's Wool), 3/-. Wallflower), 1/4. Chelone barbata (lobster flower), 4,1- Chrysan- Star of Bethlehem, 1/6. Sweet William, choice hybrids, themums, strong rooted cuttings, early, mid or late, best double and single, 1/6 ; new Scarlet Beauty, Pink Beauty, varieties, 3/6. Chrysanthemum maximum (Ox-eye Daisies), Crimson Beauty and Double White, 3/-. enormous bloom, in flower for months, californica, Mrs. Lothian Thalictrum, hardy Maidenhair, 3/-. Thrift, compact pink Bell, Robinsoni, etc., 3/-. Chinese Pinks, lovely colours, 3/-. flowering 2/-. Tritoma (Red-hot Poker), 6/-. Tussilago Cistus (Rock Rose), charming for rockery, blight flowers, in (Winter Heliotrope), very fragrant, 6/-. Tunica Saxifrages, trails, 3/-. Coreopsis grandiflora, 3/-. Cornflowers, Kelway's, edging or rockery, 3/-. Verbascum, large tall golden yellow, 6/-. blue, 1/6. Daisies, new bedding, enormous blooms, intensely Valerian, crimson, 3/-. Veronica gentianoides, dwarf, and double, pink or white, 1/6 ; crimson quilled, 1/9. Daisy (Rob spicata, tall blue, 4/-. Violas, Bath's bedding, from seed, Roy), crimson quilled, yellow centre, very effective bedder, 1/10. yellow, blue, purple, white, mauve and good mixed, 1/9. Delphinium, beautiful hybrids, one year plants, 6/-. Del- phinium, best named, largetwo year old roots, 12/-. Deutzia Lemoinei, lovely pink and white hybrids for pots or border, sprays of lovely bloom, 12/-. Dianthus, new large-flowering bedding Siberian and Alpine Wallflowers, for rockeries, edging old walls, etc., in flower for months, very bright and pretty, 4/- 100. Strong Vegetable and Herb Plants, from open ground; Asparagus, Kelway's Giant, two year old roots, 7/- 100 , varieties, double or single, all colours, 1/9; very dwarf, three years, 10/- 100. Sage, Thyme, Mint, Marjoram, , 1 1) 1 1 1 1 a , -1 miiI , ■ r, 'i' i h r i ■ ■ liii1 riii I..111 -: ^t /■ FuDninn Prim 01 >..■■ n.,..-i„,, I .. i ...,.■!. .1 1 !A .I...- *. 1 , /"» -. t-. l-i -» r, *-. compact and creeping for rockeries, 3/-. Evening Prim- rose Afterglow, lovely new perennial variety, large yellow, 4/ 3/- doz. Parsley, best curled. 1/4 doz. Spring Cabbage. Brussels Sprouts, Cos and Cabbage Lettuce, Leeks, Cauli- Erica, bright flowery evergreen, alpine heath, lovely for flower, Winter Tripoli Onions, Pickling Cabbage, 1/9 100 rockery, pots, etc., large plants, full of bud, 9/-. Erigeron stenactis superba, mauve, 4/-. Erysimum Golden Gem, charming for rockery, old walls, etc., 1/4. Forget-me-nots, Myosotis alpestris vitora, large-flowering, dwarf, blue, 1/6 ; fine deep Indigo or royal blue, 1/6. Foxgloves, new gloxinia- flowered, yellow or white, 2/8 ; ivorys, spotted or purpurea, 1/6. French Honeysuckle (not a climber), trusses, rich red flowers, 4/-. Fuchsia, hardy crimson bush, 6/-. Funkia (Corfu Lily), Strong Transplanted Plants for Cool Greenhouse, etc. All per dozen, half or quarter dozen same rate. Agapanthus (blue African Lily), 6/-. Agatha coelestis, lovely shrubby blue Marguerite, pots or bedding, 3/-. Aralia (Fig Palm), 6/-. Arum Lily, oue year, for potting, 6/-. Asparagus Fern, erect or trailing, 6/-. Begonias, evergreen, per- petual flowering, 4/-. Beauty Stocks, fragrant, early, 4/-. lovely pure white, scented, 8/-. Oaillardia grandiflora, beautiful Bridal Wreath, 6/-. Cannas, lovely hybrids, 6/-. Celsia new hybrids, 3/-. Qalega (Goat's Rue), mauve or white, cretica, charming perennial pot plant, showing spikes excellent for cut bloom, 3/-. Oeum Mrs. Bradshaw, large double yellow and mauve, 4/- Cinerarias, exhibition and scarlet, large three year old, 12/-; Glory, very fine double scarlet, stellate, 3/-. Cobsea scandens, rapid climber, large purple 6/; coccineum, semi-double, bright scarlet, 4/-. Gladiolus, best flowers, 9/- Cyclamen, choice strain 8/-. Deutzia gracilis, large-flowering hybrids, many lovely new sorts, 1/ft. Gypso- Pink or white, splendid shrub for pots, etc., soon be a mass of phila paniculate, well known gauze flower, 4/-; glabrate, bloom, large plants, 12/-. Eucalyptus, 4/- Fuchsias, choice, dwarf, for rockery, etc., 1,9. Harpalium (perennial Sunflowers), W-. Heliotrope, 5/-. Lily of the Valley, 3/-. Lobelia. best sorts, 3/-. Hemerocallis, beautiful hardy lilv, large cardinalis Queen Mctona 6/-. White and yellow Marguerites, tawny, orange and yellow, 6/-. Heuchera sanguinea 4/-. White or crimson Tobacco, 3/-. Passion Flower, 9/-, splendens, 6/-. Helianthemum (Sun Roses), bright colours, Primulas : Obconica new giant, lovely colours 6/- ; -■^ * ' . ■ * * . .■« ■ m*. . . . « .. ivirila rtj^trtaa ohAunnrf hurl itroat fmrnnplla tf\r* /*nf- Klrt*-\iri for rockery, 4/-. Hesperis (Dame's Violet), fine spikes fragrant, purple or white, 3/-. Hollyhock, doubles, 6/-; single and semi-double, 4/-. Hyperi- cum (St. John's Wort), large yellow flowers, evergreen foliage malacoides, showing bud, great favourite for cut bloom, 4/- ; sinensis, all colours : kewensls, yellow ; cortusoides, bright rose ; cashmeriana, rich purple ; denticulate, large heads, lilac, pots or rockery, 4/-. Rehmannia, pink, creeping,'4/-. Iceland* Poppies, Excelsior strain, 3/-. Indian trumpet, 6/-. Salvia Scarlet Zurich, 6/-; coccinea. 4/ Pinks, 2/8. Iris, large Flag, separate colours, white, mauve, yellow, blue, purple, 6/-; mixed, 4/6. Irispumila, forrockery, 4/-. ris hlspanica (Poor Man's Orchid), lovely for cutting, 3/-. Isatis Saxifraga sarmentosa, trailing, 4/-. Smilax, trailing, 4/-. Streptocarpus, beautiful new hybrids, lovely Cape Primrose, ti/-. Strong Hardy Climbers. Ampelopsis Veitchii, self (Woad), rare handsome border plant, 4/-. Kniphophia climbing, small leaf, large roots, several trails, each 2/-. Clematis (Torch Lily), 6/-. Lavender, fragrant, Old English, sturdy, Traveller's Joy and Flammula (Virgin's Bower), white, rapid bushy, two year old, 6/-. Lily of the Valley, strong flowering climbers, large two year roots, 2/- each. Honeysuckle, very crowns, 3/-. Linum, lovely blue Flax, 3/-. Linaria dalmatica, fine red-flowering Dutch, large plants, 3/- each. Wistaria spikes yellow, blotched orange, 3/-. Lobelia cardinalis, tell sinensis, large racemes of bluish-lilac flowers, 3/6 each. Ever, spikes, rich scarlet, 4/-. Lupin, Tree, yellow or white, 6/-. lasting Climbing Pea, red, white, pink, 3, 1/6. Apios- Lupin polyphyllus, pink, 4/- ; blue or white, 2/8. Lychnis, new tuberous rooted Wistaria (not Sinensis), rapid climber, sweetly Salmon Queen, 6/-. Lychnis chalcedonica, scarlet Jerusalem scented purple flowers, 3. 1/6. Calystegia, double pink cross, 6/-. Lychnis coronaria, silvery foliage, crimson Morning Glory, 3, 1/6. Passion Flower, hardy blue and flowers, 3/-. Malva moschata, musk scented, large, pink white, 1, 1/4. Tropasolum speciosum, tiny flame flowers, or white, 4/-. Montbretias, lovely new sorts, 1/9. Glory of the Scotch Highlands, 3, 1/6. Mrs. PYM, F.R.H.S., 10, Vine House, Woodston, Peterborough CAULIFLOWER " MAY QUEEN/* The fastest growing, quickest heading variety in existence. Planted in March, large white heads may be cut during May and June. Autumn-sown plants, 3/6 per 100; 500 for 16/- ; per 1,000, 30'-. Carriage paid, with Cultural Hints. Seed, to sow for succession, 1/6 and 2/6 per packet. DANIELS & SON, Dept G, Wymondham, Norfolk. FERTILISERS. Reduced prices : LAWNS, 20/. ; FRUIT TREES, VINES, 19/6 ; GENERAL GARDEN USE, 17/- WORM KILLER, newly introduced, 19/. ; Per cwt., carriage paid. Also all other fertilisers. HY. RICHARDSON & CO., Skeldergate Bridge Works, YORK. VI. THE GARDEN. [.March 17, 1923. The Old Carnation's Charm. The New Carnation's Freedom. Jllooms from Spring Jo Winter. CARRIAGE & PACKING PAID COLLECTIONS. Collection 7 L/a, 6 plants in variety, our selection 15- 7L/b, 12 „ „ 27,6 „ 7 L/c, 6 „ latest novelties „ 30/- Cultural Booklet. 64. /><..s7 free. With the Charm Fragrance of an Old- world Garden. THE HARDY PLANT Grows anywhere and blooms from Spring to Winter. Carriage & Packing Paid = COLLECTIONS. Collection 9 L/a, 6 distinct varieties .. .. 5/6 9L/b, 9 „ „ •• ..7/6 I L/C, 12 „ including 1921 novelties 12/6 9 L/d, 25 pints., our selection .. ..21/- 9L/e, 100 „ „ „ ..75/- 9 h/S, 6 novelties 1922 & 1923 vars. 21 /- Cultural Booklet 6d. post free. Carnations for Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation. Fully illustrated and described in our Catalogue. SENT WITH PLEASURE. When yon think of Carnations yon think or -— , f^ The leading Carnation fjAjf / V"%^.~^, Raisers & Specialists Haywards Heath, Sussex. that YOU can have a Garden as profitable and as lovely as the one you have so often admired ? Delicious fresh Vegetables to share and to spare the year round, and a perennially gay display of blossom rivalling in charm the Garden of your dreams. Just send a post card to-day for an absolutely FREE Copy of our beautifully illustrated "GUIDE TO GARDEN WISDOM & GUARANTEED GARDEN SEEDS," and have a better Garden than ever before — at less cost. J^o obligation of any sort. Address us personally: T00G00D & SONS, Ltd. Seedsmen to H.M. The King, and Growers of "Better Crops" Seeds only. SOUTHAMPTON. BEGONIAS 5/- 4/6 3/6 5/- 4/- t'rilled single, 42/- 35/- 30/- 24/- 35/- 28 - 100 In superb quality and ertra large tubers tor Greenhouse or Bedding. DOUBLES, in 8 colours, Howers like large Roses and Camellias . . . . 6/- per doz. DOUBLES' in mixed colours SINGLES, in 6 colours, very large fine shaped flowers .. SINGLES, in mixed colours „ ,, .... SINGLES, frilled or crested, in 6 colours SINGLES, frilled or crested, in mixed colours Collection ,of 36 large Tubers, 12 doubles, 12 singles, 12 Post free on orders of £l and over. Send for FREE Catalogue of named Begonias for Exhibition Basket varieties, Cyclamen, Carnations, Delphiniums, Gloxinias, Polyanthus, etc. NOW IS THE BEST TIME TO PLANT DELPHINIUMS. We have pleasure in offering the following Collections in specially good value, in strong ground roots which will make a grand show of bloom this year. 14/- COLLECTION A, 12 extra choice sorts COLLECTION B, 12 very choice sorts 75/- 45/- COLLECTION C, 12 fine sorts COLLECTION D, 12 good sorts 35/- 25/- CATALOGUE FREE, Apply : BLACKMORE & LANGDON, Bath, FROM ONE GARDEN LOVER TO ANOTHER GARDEN SUPPLIES LTD. (Boundary Chemical Co.) CRANMER ST. LIVERPOOL Solicit your Enquiries WHEN YOU WANT A GOOD THING FOR YOUR GARDEN In Roses, Bulbs, Shrubs, Plants, Seeds, Fruit Trees, Manures, Weed or Pest Killers, Lawn Seed, Lawn Improvers, &c. IOr\ SATISFACTION GUARANTEED OR MONEY RETURNED Catalogue Post Free Write us Now it OREODOXA The new CHINESE HARDY RHODODENDRON, flowers bell shaped, blush pink. We cin offer a limited number of strong plants, 2-3ft., with buds. Raised from seeds purchased by us from Mi. Wilson's 1908 Expedition. (Price 10/6 — 15/- each.) V. N. QAUNTLETT & Co., Ltd., Japanese Nurseries, CH IDDINQFOLD. SURREY. DOBBIE'S CATALOGUE And Guide to Gardening. ooaaies SPMHC CArALQZUE j I9Z3 „ Send a Post Card or Letter to - day, simply mentioning " The Garden," and you shall have a copy per return post. DOBBIE & CO., Ltd., Seedsmen and Florists to H.M. The King, EDINBU RGH. WATERER'S Great Sixpenny Clearance Sale OF ONE MILLION Hardy Perennial & Alpine Plants ALL TO FLOWER THIS YEAR. A customer writes, on February 26th, 1923, in respect of last year's sale : — " / have never come across better grown plants than those I got from you last near. T/teg are quite magnificent and none Imrr